Category: Politics

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Grassley Joins America’s Newsroom to Discuss His Release of the Durham Annex

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley

    WASHINGTON – Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) today joined “America’s Newsroom” on Fox News to discuss his successful efforts to secure the declassification and release of the formerly Classified Appendix (“Durham annex”) to John Durham’s 2023 Special Counsel report.

    The Durham annex exposes a reported Hillary Clinton campaign plan to falsely tie President Donald Trump to Russia, as well as the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s (FBI) failure to investigate intelligence suggesting the Clinton campaign fabricated the Russia collusion hoax.

    Video and excerpts of Grassley’s remarks follow:

    [embedded content]

    VIDEO

    On the reported Clinton Campaign Plan to generate the Russia collusion hoax:

    “[The Durham annex] gives us information that the FBI had eight to 10 years ago that they never followed up on. It actually brings attention to the fact that there was either a Clinton conspiracy to make this happen, or Russia disinformation. Either way, it was an attempt to stop Trump, and it proves that the FBI had a hand in it.

    “And now, after these eight years, three years of mine trying to get the document, we know that the Steele dossier [was] paid for by the Democrats and the Clinton campaign. That it was all an effort of total distraction and to make it look like Russia was playing a very major role in helping Trump be elected. Now we know none of that was true, and now with this Durham report annex out, it finally proved that the FBI was covering up.”

    On the classified Durham annex being discovered inside burn bags at the FBI:

    “I think it’s evidence of the great depth that the deep state will go to cover up weaponization that was going on in the FBI and the executive branch of government, generally, under the Obama administration.

    “I want to thank Kash Patel of the FBI and Pam Bondi, our Attorney General, for releasing these documents. Because, after eight years – and it took us three years to get this information – but after eight years, I think we need maximum transparency on all the schemes that were going on 10 years ago to either stop Trump from being elected or, after he’s elected, to ruin his presidency. And that’s what this Durham report is all about.”

    On former Central Intelligence Agency Director John Brennan’s and former Director of National Intelligence Director James Clapper’s attempts to cover up their involvement in the Russia collusion hoax:

    “I think that they have been in the news so often recently, along with [former FBI Director James] Comey, [for being] in the center of this conspiracy. They’re trying to cover their hind end.”

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lee Bill Blocks Federal Judges from Appointing U.S. Attorneys

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Utah Mike Lee

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) introduced legislation today to restore the President’s right to appoint acting United States Attorneys, a power usurped by Democrats and handed to judges under arbitrary time limits, creating conflicts of interest and power imbalances within courts. U.S. Senator Josh Hawley (R-MO) cosponsored the legislation.

    “President Trump deserves to pick the people working for him,” said Senator Mike Lee. “Judges shouldn’t get to choose the US Attorney who will be arguing cases before them, just as they would never let a President name their law clerks. Congress took this provision out once before, and Democrats revived it to hamper the Bush administration almost 20 years ago. It’s time we restored this prerogative to the leader of the Executive Branch.”

    Background

    U.S. Attorneys are appointed by the President and subject to approval by the Senate. While awaiting Senate approval, the Attorney General selects an interim U.S. Attorney to serve for 120 days. If the presidential appointee is not confirmed within those 120 days, current law allows district courts to then select yet another interim U.S. Attorney – an opportunity sometimes exploited for political retaliation.

    This shift of appointment authority away from the executive branch to the courts creates a conflict of interest, weakening the separation of powers by allowing courts to select their own interim U.S. attorneys.

    Senator Lee’s legislation will correct this miscarriage of justice by restoring the authority to make U.S. attorney appointments to the executive branch.

    Read exclusive coverage by The Federalist here.

    Read the full bill text here.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Non-Partisan Watchdog: President Trump and Russ Vought Continue to Steal from America’s Students and Schools

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09)

    Toledo, OH — Today, the non-partisan Government Accountability Office (GAO) issued a decision finding that the Department of Energy violated the Impoundment Control Act. After investigating delayed awards for the Department of Energy’s Renew America’s Schools Program, GAO confirmed what we already knew: President Trump and Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Director Russ Vought’s theft of appropriated funds violates the Impoundment Control Act.

    This decision respects Congress’s constitutional primacy over appropriations and the Congress’s role in passing annual appropriations Acts, including appropriations to provide funding for schools to help schools decrease energy costs, improve indoor air quality, and foster healthier learning environments.

    “GAO’s legal determination confirms the illegality of DOE’s wider pattern of freezing appropriated funds for energy programs. DOE’s delays of critical energy funding for policy reasons lay bare an appalling betrayal of working families,” said Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Subcommittee Ranking Member Marcy Kaptur (OH-09). “These program freezes cede our global clean energy leadership to Communist China and force Americans to pay higher energy bills. DOE’s partisan overreach must end now. They must release the funds immediately so communities and families can drive down costs, improve our infrastructure, and secure America’s energy independence in perpetuity.”

    “President Trump, Russ Vought, and Secretary Wright continue to steal from Americans to concentrate absolute power in the executive branch. This time, they are stealing from our nation’s schoolchildren, who deserve a healthy environment to learn in – and from school districts looking to lower their energy costs. The Government Accountability Office (GAO), our government’s preeminent nonpartisan watchdog, has yet again plainly demonstrated that the Department of Energy is engaged in a broad pattern of unlawfully freezing critical energy investments, forcing Americans to pay higher energy bills,” said House Appropriations Committee Ranking Member Rosa DeLauro (CT-03). “Their unlawful impoundments are not limited to Renew America’s Schools; they are threatening vital clean energy and efficiency initiatives that help drive down costs and modernize our infrastructure. I will continue to say it: Russ Vought is behind the lawless destruction and upheaval of our government and must be removed from his position. Russ Vought is an unelected bureaucrat, much like those he professes to detest, and he has decided that his views, and his priorities, are superior to the priorities, directives, and decisions of the Democratic and Republican representatives in the United States Congress. He has shown time and again that he is willing to break the law and hurt Americans in order to fund tax breaks for billionaires and big corporations. He must be stopped.”

    The US Department of Energy (DOE) launched the $500 Million Renew America’s Schools Program to promote the implementation of energy improvements at K-12 public schools across the country. This first-of-its-kind investment aims to help school communities make energy upgrades that will decrease energy use and costs, improve indoor air quality, and foster healthier learning environments. To date, the Renew America’s Schools Program has invested hundreds of millions in public school districts across America, supporting capacity-building initiatives for energy management at over two dozen Local Educational Agencies (LEAs), and funding improvement projects at more than 400 facilities across 36 states – directly benefitting over 197,000 students and 14,000 teachers.

    In April, Ranking Member DeLauro and Vice Chair Murray first released a joint tracker on the funds President Trump and Russ Vought are stealing from American communities. This tracker — the first of its kind — puts a spotlight on the frozen funds across our government, including the $77 Billion for Department of Energy programs. See the updated tracker here.

    Ranking Member DeLauro has been sounding the alarm on impoundment since President Trump was reelected. In December 2024, she released this fact sheet laying the groundwork on President Trump’s uninformed and unconstitutional impoundment plan.

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI: GSI Technology, Inc. Announces First Quarter Fiscal 2026 Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SUNNYVALE, Calif., July 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — GSI Technology, Inc. (Nasdaq: GSIT) today reported financial results for its first fiscal quarter ended June 30, 2025.

    Summary Comments for First Quarter Fiscal Year 2026

    • SRAM revenue increased 7% sequentially and 35% year-over-year, fueled by strong market momentum for leading AI processors;
    • Gross margin lift of 200 basis points from prior quarter and over 1,100 basis points compared to the prior year for our largest gross margin in over two years;
    • Quarter-end cash balance of $22.7 million, up from $13.4 million at the end of Q4 FY2025, including proceeds from the “at the market” (ATM) program;
    • Delivered an APU Leda-2 board to an offshore defense contractor, as planned, for proof-of-concept development; and
    • Currently developing a multi-modal LLM that targets edge applications, with benchmark results available by fall 2025.

    Lee-Lean Shu, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, commented, “We have completed the evaluation of the second spin of our Gemini-II chip, successfully resolving all known bugs, and confirming the chip is production-ready. In parallel, we finalized development of the SAR and YOLO algorithms, optimized for a low-power version of our Leda board. We are pleased with the performance of the board, which is optimized for Edge AI applications. This solution holds strong market potential, particularly for drones operating in GPS-denied environments and next-generation satellite applications.”

    Mr. Shu continued, “Gemini-II is ideally suited for edge-based large language models (LLMs), combining high-performance, low-power architecture and flexible processing capabilities, key features that meet the growing demand for AI at the edge. We are developing a multi-modal LLM optimized for edge applications and expect to share benchmark results by fall 2025.”

    Commenting on GSI’s second quarter of fiscal 2026 outlook, Mr. Shu stated, “Current expectations for the upcoming fiscal second quarter are net revenues in a range of $5.9 million to $6.7 million, with gross margin of approximately 56% to 58%.”

    First Quarter Fiscal Year 2026 Summary Financials

    The Company reported net revenues of $6.3 million for the first quarter of fiscal 2026, compared to $4.7 million for the first quarter of fiscal 2025 and $5.9 million for the fourth quarter of fiscal 2025. Gross margin was 58.1% in the first quarter of fiscal 2026 compared to 46.3% in the first quarter of fiscal 2025 and 56.1% in the preceding fourth quarter of fiscal 2025. The increase in gross margin in the first quarter of 2026 was primarily due to product mix and the effect of higher revenue on the fixed costs in our cost of revenues. 

    In the first quarter of fiscal 2026, sales to KYEC were $267,000, or 4.3% of net revenues, compared to $1.0 million, or 21.9% of net revenues, in the same period a year ago and $1.7 million, or 29.5% of net revenues, in the prior quarter. In the first quarter of fiscal 2026, sales to Nokia were $536,000, or 8.5% of net revenues, compared to $998,000, or 21.4% of net revenues, in the same period a year ago and $444,000, or 7.5% of net revenues, in the prior quarter. In the first quarter of fiscal 2026, sales to Cadence Design Systems were $1.5 million, or 23.9% of net revenues, compared to $0, or 0% of net revenues, in the same period a year ago and $642,000, or 10.9% of net revenues, in the prior quarter. Military/defense sales were 19.1% of first quarter shipments compared to 31.9% of shipments in the comparable period a year ago and 30.7% of shipments in the prior quarter. SigmaQuad sales were 62.5% of first quarter shipments compared to 36.3% in the first quarter of fiscal 2025 and 39.3% in the prior quarter. 

    Total operating expenses in the first quarter of fiscal 2026 were $5.8 million, compared to $6.8 million, excluding a one-time gain of $5.7 million on the sale and leaseback of the Company’s corporate headquarters, in the first quarter of fiscal 2025 and $5.6 million in the prior quarter. Research and development expenses were $3.1 million, compared to $4.2 million in the prior-year period and $3.0 million in the prior quarter. Selling, general and administrative expenses were $2.7 million in the quarter ended June 30, 2025, compared to $2.6 million in the prior-year quarter and $2.6 million in the previous quarter. 

    First quarter fiscal 2026 operating loss was $(2.2) million compared to an operating loss of $(4.7) million, excluding a one-time gain of $5.7 million related to the sale and leaseback of the Company’s corporate headquarters, in the prior-year period and an operating loss of $(2.3) million in the prior quarter. First quarter fiscal 2026 net loss included interest and other income of $13,000 and a tax provision of $54,000, compared to $55,000 in interest and other income and a tax provision of $57,000 for the same period a year ago. In the preceding fourth quarter, net loss included interest and other income of $52,000 and a tax provision of $6,000. 

    Net loss in the first quarter of fiscal 2026 was $(2.2) million, or $(0.08) per diluted share, compared to net income of $1.1 million, or $0.04 per diluted share, for the first quarter of fiscal 2025. Net income for the year-ago period reflects a one-time gain of $5.7 million on the sale and leaseback transaction related to the sale of the Company’s headquarters. For the prior fourth fiscal quarter of 2025, net loss was $(2.2) million, or $(0.09) per diluted share.

    Total first quarter pre-tax stock-based compensation expense was $341,000 compared to $658,000 in the comparable quarter a year ago and $512,000 in the prior quarter. 

    At June 30, 2025, the Company had $22.7 million in cash and cash equivalents, compared to $13.4 million at March 31, 2025. Working capital was $25.7 million as of June 30, 2025 versus $16.4 million at March 31, 2025. Stockholders’ equity as of June 30, 2025 was $37.4 million, compared to $28.2 million as of the fiscal year ended March 31, 2025. 

    Conference Call

    GSI Technology will review its financial results for the quarter ended June 30, 2025, and discuss its current business outlook during a conference call at 1:30 p.m. Pacific (4:30 p.m. Eastern) today, July 31, 2025. To participate in the call, please dial 1-877-407-3982 in the U.S., or 1-201-493-6780 for international, approximately 10 minutes prior to the above start time, and provide Conference ID 13754957.  The call will also be streamed live via the internet at https://ir.gsitechnology.com.  

    About GSI Technology

    GSI Technology is at the forefront of the AI revolution with our groundbreaking APU technology, designed for unparalleled efficiency in billion-item database searches and high-performance computing. GSI’s innovations, Gemini-I® and Gemini-II®, offer scalable, low-power, high-capacity computing solutions that redefine edge computing capabilities. GSI Technology is not just advancing technology; we’re shaping a smarter, faster, and more efficient future.

    Founded in 1995 and headquartered in Sunnyvale, California, GSI Technology has 127 employees and over 125 granted patents.

    For more information, please visit www.gsitechnology.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    The statements contained in this press release that are not purely historical are forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, including statements regarding GSI Technology’s expectations, beliefs, intentions, or strategies regarding the future. All forward-looking statements included in this press release are based upon information available to GSI Technology as of the date hereof, and GSI Technology assumes no obligation to update any such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve a variety of risks and uncertainties, which could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected. These risks include those associated with the normal quarterly and fiscal year-end closing process. Examples of risks that could affect our current expectations regarding future revenues and gross margins include those associated with fluctuations in GSI Technology’s operating results; GSI Technology’s historical dependence on sales to a limited number of customers and fluctuations in the mix of customers and products in any period; global public health crises that reduce economic activity; the rapidly evolving markets for GSI Technology’s products and uncertainty regarding the development of these markets; the need to develop and introduce new products to offset the historical decline in the average unit selling price of GSI Technology’s products; the challenges of rapid growth followed by periods of contraction; intensive competition; the continued availability of government funding opportunities; delays or unanticipated costs that may be encountered in the development of new products based on our in-place associative computing technology and the establishment of new markets and customer and partner relationships for the sale of such products; and delays or unexpected challenges related to the establishment of customer relationships and orders for GSI Technology’s radiation-hardened and tolerant SRAM products. Many of these risks are currently amplified by and will continue to be amplified by, or in the future may be amplified by, economic and geopolitical conditions, such as changing interest rates, worldwide inflationary pressures, policy unpredictability, the imposition of tariffs and other trade barriers, military conflicts and declines in the global economic environment. Further information regarding these and other risks relating to GSI Technology’s business is contained in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including those factors discussed under the caption “Risk Factors” in such filings.

    Source: GSI Technology, Inc.

    Investor Relations
    Hayden IR
    Kim Rogers
    Managing Director
    385-831-7337
    Kim@HaydenIR.com

    Media Relations
    Finn Partners for GSI Technology
    Ricca Silverio
    (415) 348-2724
    gsi@finnpartners.com

    Company
    GSI Technology, Inc.
    Douglas M. Schirle
    Chief Financial Officer
    408-331-9802

    GSI TECHNOLOGY, INC.
    CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
    (in thousands, except per share data)
    (Unaudited)
                 
            Three Months Ended
            June 30, March 31, June 30,
              2025     2025     2024  
                 
    Net revenues  $ 6,283   $ 5,883   $ 4,671  
    Cost of goods sold   2,632     2,584     2,510  
                 
    Gross profit    3,651     3,299     2,161  
                 
    Operating expenses:      
                 
      Research & development   3,097     2,966     4,214  
      Selling, general and administrative   2,730     2,609     2,604  
      Gain from sale and leaseback transaction           (5,737 )
          Total operating expenses   5,827     5,575     1,081  
                 
    Operating income (loss)   (2,176 )   (2,276 )   1,080  
                 
    Interest and other income, net   13     52     55  
                 
    Income (loss) before income taxes   (2,163 )   (2,224 )   1,135  
    Provision for income taxes   54     6     57  
    Net income (loss) $ (2,217 ) $ (2,230 ) $ 1,078  
                 
                 
    Net income (loss) per share, basic $ (0.08 ) $ (0.09 ) $ 0.04  
    Net income (loss) per share, diluted $ (0.08 ) $ (0.09 ) $ 0.04  
                 
    Weighted-average shares used in      
         computing per share amounts:      
                 
    Basic       26,967     25,604     25,374  
    Diluted       26,967     25,604     25,686  
                 
                 
    Stock-based compensation included in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations:
                 
                 
            June 30, March 31, June 30,
              2025     2025     2024  
                 
    Cost of goods sold $ 44   $ 42   $ 56  
    Research & development   (62 )   263     290  
    Selling, general and administrative   359     207     312  
            $ 341   $ 512   $ 658  
                 
    GSI TECHNOLOGY, INC.
    CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
    (in thousands)
    (Unaudited)
             
        June 30, 2025 March 31, 2025
    Cash and cash equivalents $ 22,725   $ 13,434
    Accounts receivable   1,587     3,169
    Inventory   3,763     3,891
    Other current assets   3,012     2,961
    Net property and equipment   722     808
    Operating lease right-of-use assets   9,232     9,547
    Other assets   9,464     9,507
    Total assets $ 50,505   $ 43,317
             
    Current liabilities $ 5,372   $ 7,074
    Long-term liabilities   7,759     8,017
    Stockholders’ equity   37,374     28,226
    Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity $ 50,505   $ 43,317
             

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: NCS Multistage Holdings, Inc. Announces Second Quarter 2025 Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Second Quarter Results

    • Total revenues of $36.5 million, a 23% year-over-year improvement
    • Net income of $0.9 million and diluted earnings per share of $0.34, which includes a positive impact of $1.4 million related to the release of our deferred tax valuation allowance in Canada
    • Adjusted EBITDA of $2.2 million, a $1.3 million year-over-year improvement   
    • $25.4 million in cash and $7.7 million of total debt as of June 30, 2025

    HOUSTON, July 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — NCS Multistage Holdings, Inc. (Nasdaq: NCSM) (the “Company,” “NCS,” “we” or “us”), a leading provider of highly engineered products and support services that facilitate the optimization of oil and natural gas well construction, well completions and field development strategies, today announced its results for the quarter ended June 30, 2025.

    Review and Outlook

    NCS’s Chief Executive Officer, Ryan Hummer commented, “Our team at NCS has continued to enable strong operational and financial performance in an industry and market environment marked by uncertainty. Our revenue and Adjusted EBITDA for the second quarter exceeded the high end of the expectations we provided in our last earnings call and our year-over-year revenue improvement for the quarter of 23% outperformed industry activity levels, demonstrating the value we bring to our customers.

    Furthermore, our revenue and Adjusted EBITDA for the first six months of 2025 have improved by $12.9 million, or 18%, and $3.4 million, or 49%, respectively, as compared to 2024, as we continue to benefit from our core strategies of building upon our leading market positions, capitalizing on international and offshore opportunities and commercializing innovative solutions to complex customer challenges.

    We have maintained our strong balance sheet, ending the second quarter with over $25 million in cash and over $17 million in availability under our undrawn credit facility and only $8 million in debt, comprised entirely of capital leases.

    We’re also excited to announce today’s acquisition of Reservoir Metrics, LLC, and its related entities (“ResMetrics”). ResMetrics, a leader in reservoir analysis utilizing chemical tracer technology, is a profitable and rapidly growing business serving a high-quality customer base in the U.S. and internationally. For the trailing twelve months ended June 30, 2025, ResMetrics’ unaudited revenue was over $10 million with an EBITDA margin of over 30%. We believe that ResMetrics’ business is highly complementary with NCS’s tracer diagnostics service line, and we look forward to working with the ResMetrics team to deliver valuable and actionable reservoir insights to our customers. This all-cash transaction represents a strategic fit for NCS operationally, a strategic use of our balance sheet, and adds to our talented team.

    This has been a strong start to 2025 for NCS and we remain cautiously optimistic about the second half of the year. That optimism is tempered by market conditions that have continued to deteriorate, with continued U.S. rig count declines, a slower than normal rig count recovery in Canada following spring break-up, the potential for an oversupplied oil market in late 2025 as announced OPEC+ oil supply increases materialize, and ongoing uncertainties related to tariffs and trade.

    I want to extend my continued appreciation to the outstanding teams at NCS and Repeat Precision and welcome the ResMetrics team to NCS. Our results, and the opportunities ahead, reflect the vision, ability and commitment of our people and our aligned pursuit of NCS’s strategic priorities. We have the right people, the right technology, and the right strategies in place to deliver tangible benefits to our customers, develop industry solutions, and create shareholder value.”

    Financial Review

    Total revenues were $36.5 million for the quarter ended June 30, 2025 compared to $29.7 million for the second quarter of 2024. Revenue growth was driven primarily by increased fracturing systems activity and frac plug sales in Canada and the United States. The increase for Canada occurred despite a decline in Canadian rig counts during 2025, reflecting more activity with customers that remained active during spring break-up. Our international revenues decreased primarily due to reduced tracer diagnostics activity in the Middle East, partially offset by higher sales of well construction products in the Middle East and fracturing systems equipment in the North Sea.

    Compared to the first quarter of 2025, total revenues decreased by 27%, primarily due to a decrease in Canada of 52%, attributable to the normal seasonal decline associated with spring break-up, partially offset by an increase of 67% in international revenues and a 45% increase in U.S. revenues.

    Gross profit was $12.3 million, or a gross margin of 34%, for the second quarter of 2025, compared to $11.3 million, or a gross margin of 38%, for the second quarter of 2024. Gross margin for 2025 declined, reflecting the mix of products sold and services provided during the respective periods. Adjusted gross profit, which we define as total revenues less total cost of sales, exclusive of depreciation and amortization (“DD&A”), was $13.0 million, or an adjusted gross margin of 36%, for the second quarter of 2025, compared to $12.0 million, or 40%, for the second quarter of 2024.

    Selling, general and administrative (“SG&A”) expenses totaled $13.6 million for the second quarter of 2025, a decrease of $1.2 million compared to the same period in 2024, with a decrease in professional fees, lower payroll and employee benefit expenses, and a decrease in research and development expense, partially offset by higher share-based compensation expense attributable to cash settled awards remeasured at the balance sheet date based on the price of our common stock.

    Other income was $1.6 million for the second quarter of 2025 compared to $2.2 million for the second quarter of 2024. The decline in other income reflects a reduction in the amount attributable to the technical services and assistance agreement with our local partner in Oman, as the program ended in November 2024, with no contribution associated with this agreement in the second quarter of 2025. In addition, there was a year-over-year decrease in royalty income earned from licensees for these periods, as the second quarter of 2024 included an initial payment from a new licensee reflecting both current and certain historical volumes.

    Income tax benefit was $1.0 million for the second quarter of 2025 compared to an expense of $0.3 million for the second quarter of 2024. As of June 30, 2025, we reversed a portion of the valuation allowance previously recorded against the deferred tax assets of our Canadian operating subsidiary due to sustained improvements in operating results, including a return to profitability and forecasts of future taxable income that are sufficient to realize the remaining deferred tax assets. The reversal of the valuation allowance resulted in a deferred income tax benefit of $1.4 million during the period ended June 30, 2025. 

    Net income was $0.9 million, or $0.34 per diluted share, for the quarter ended June 30, 2025 compared to a net loss of $(3.1) million, or $(1.21) per share for the quarter ended June 30, 2024. 

    Adjusted EBITDA was $2.2 million for the quarter ended June 30, 2025, an increase of $1.3 million compared to the same period a year ago. This improvement is primarily the result of an increase in revenues and lower SG&A expenses. Adjusted EBITDA margin of 6% for the quarter ended June 30, 2025, compared to 3% for the same period a year ago. 

    Cash flow from operating activities for the six months ended June 30, 2025 was a source of cash of $1.9 million, a $2.2 million decrease compared to the same period in 2024. For the six months ended June 30, 2025, free cash flow less distributions to non-controlling interest was a source of cash of $0.5 million compared to $3.2 million for the same period in 2024. The overall change in free cash flow was largely attributed to our change in net working capital including payment of incentive bonuses and cash-settled awards in the first quarter of 2025 and an increase in the amount distributed to our non-controlling interest in 2025, partially offset by an increase in net income in 2025.

    Liquidity and Capital Expenditures

    As of June 30, 2025, NCS had $25.4 million in cash, $7.7 million in total indebtedness related to finance lease obligations, and a borrowing base under the undrawn asset-based revolving credit facility (“ABL Facility”) of $17.2 million. Our working capital, defined as current assets minus current liabilities, was $87.2 million and $80.2 million as of June 30, 2025 and December 31, 2024, respectively.

    Net working capital, calculated as working capital, less cash and excluding the current maturities of long-term debt, was $64.0 million and $56.4 million as of June 30, 2025 and December 31, 2024, respectively. The increase in net working capital was primarily attributable to an increase in accounts receivable and inventory and a decrease in accrued expenses and other current liabilities due in part to payment of our 2024 incentive bonus and cash-settled awards in the first quarter of 2025, partially offset by an increase in accounts payable. 

    NCS incurred capital expenditures, net of proceeds from the sale of property and equipment, of $0.5 million and $0.4 million for the six months ended June 30, 2025 and 2024, respectively.

    EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA Margin, Adjusted EBITDA Less Share-Based Compensation, Adjusted Gross Profit, Adjusted Gross Margin, Free Cash Flow, Free Cash Flow Less Distributions to Non-Controlling Interest and Net Working Capital are non-GAAP financial measures. For an explanation of these measures and a reconciliation, refer to Non-GAAP Financial Measures” below.

    Strategic Acquisition of Reservoir Metrics, LLC

    On July 31, 2025, we acquired 100% of the equity interests of ResMetrics, a provider of tracer diagnostics services, for $5.9 million, on a cash-free, debt-free basis, in cash and assumed debt, subject to a working capital adjustment, with an additional earn-out of up to $1.3 million to be paid in early 2026, depending solely on changes in international trade tariff rates for certain chemical imports during 2025. We believe the purchase of ResMetrics will further expand and complement our existing tracer diagnostics offerings.

    Conference Call

    The Company will host a conference call to discuss its second quarter 2025 results and latest earnings guidance on Friday, August 1, 2025 at 7:30 a.m. Central Time (8:30 a.m. Eastern Time). The conference call will be available via a live audio webcast. Participants who wish to ask questions may register for the call here to receive the dial-in numbers and unique PIN. If you wish to join the conference call but do not plan to ask questions, you may join the listen-only webcast here. The live webcast can also be accessed by visiting the Investors section of the Company’s website at ir.ncsmultistage.com. It is recommended that participants join at least 10 minutes prior to the event start.

    The replay will be available in the Investors section of the Company’s website shortly after the conclusion of the call and will remain available for approximately seven days.

    About NCS Multistage Holdings, Inc.

    NCS Multistage Holdings, Inc. is a leading provider of highly engineered products and support services that facilitate the optimization of oil and natural gas well construction, well completions and field development strategies. NCS provides products and services primarily to exploration and production companies for use in onshore and offshore wells, predominantly wells that have been drilled with horizontal laterals in both unconventional and conventional oil and natural gas formations. NCS’s products and services are utilized in oil and natural gas basins throughout North America and in selected international markets, including the North Sea, the Middle East, Argentina and China. NCS’s common stock is traded on the Nasdaq Capital Market under the symbol “NCSM.” Additional information is available on the website, www.ncsmultistage.com.

    Forward Looking Statements

    This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of thesafe harborprovisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements can be identified by words such asanticipates,” “intends,” “plans,” “seeks,” “believes,” “estimates,” “expectsand similar references to future periods, or by the inclusion of forecasts or projections. Examples of forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements we make regarding the outlook for our future business and financial performance. Forward-looking statements are based on our current expectations and assumptions regarding our business, the economy and other future conditions. Because forward-looking statements relate to the future, by their nature, they are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks and changes in circumstances that are difficult to predict. As a result, our actual results may differ materially from those contemplated by the forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause our actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements include regional, national or global political, economic, business, competitive, market and regulatory conditions and the following: declines in the level of oil and natural gas exploration and production activity in Canada, the United States and internationally; oil and natural gas price fluctuations; significant competition for our products and services that results in pricing pressures, reduced sales, or reduced market share; inability to successfully implement our strategy of increasing sales of products and services into the U.S. and international markets; loss of significant customers; losses and liabilities from uninsured or underinsured business activities and litigation; change in trade policy, including the impact of tariffs; our failure to identify and consummate potential acquisitions; the financial health of our customers including their ability to pay for products or services provided; our inability to integrate or realize the expected benefits from acquisitions; our inability to achieve suitable price increases to offset the impacts of cost inflation; loss of any of our key suppliers or significant disruptions negatively impacting our supply chain; risks in attracting and retaining qualified employees and key personnel; risks resulting from the operations of our joint venture arrangement; currency exchange rate fluctuations; impact of severe weather conditions; our inability to accurately predict customer demand, which may result in us holding excess or obsolete inventory; failure to comply with or changes to federal, state and local and non-U.S. laws and other regulations, including tax policies, anti-corruption and environmental regulations, guidelines and regulations for the use of explosives; impairment in the carrying value of long-lived assets including goodwill; system interruptions or failures, including complications with our enterprise resource planning system, cybersecurity breaches, identity theft or other disruptions that could compromise our information; our inability to successfully develop and implement new technologies, products and services that align with the needs of our customers, including addressing the shift to more non-traditional energy markets as part of the energy transition and the adoption of artificial intelligence and machine learning; our inability to protect and maintain critical intellectual property assets, the inability to protect our current royalty income, or the losses and liabilities from adverse decisions in intellectual property disputes; loss of, or interruption to, our information and computer systems; our failure to establish and maintain effective internal control over financial reporting; restrictions on the availability of our customers to obtain water essential to the drilling and hydraulic fracturing processes; changes in legislation or regulation governing the oil and natural gas industry, including restrictions on emissions of greenhouse gases; our inability to meet regulatory requirements for use of certain chemicals by our tracer diagnostics business; the reduction in our ABL Facility borrowing base or our inability to comply with the covenants in our debt agreements; and our inability to obtain sufficient liquidity on reasonable terms, or at all and other factors discussed or referenced in our filings made from time to time with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Any forward-looking statement made by us in this press release speaks only as of the date on which we make it. Factors or events that could cause our actual results to differ may emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for us to predict all of them. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as may be required by law.

    Contact

    Mike Morrison
    Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer
    (281) 453-2222
    IR@ncsmultistage.com 

    NCS MULTISTAGE HOLDINGS, INC.
    CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
    (In thousands, except per share data)
    (Unaudited)
     
        Three Months Ended     Six Months Ended  
        June 30,     June 30,  
        2025     2024     2025     2024  
    Revenues                                
    Product sales   $ 27,776     $ 19,022     $ 62,842     $ 50,780  
    Services     8,678       10,668       23,617       22,768  
    Total revenues     36,454       29,690       86,459       73,548  
    Cost of sales                                
    Cost of product sales, exclusive of depreciation and amortization expense shown below     18,214       12,209       38,566       31,901  
    Cost of services, exclusive of depreciation and amortization expense shown below     5,242       5,510       13,040       12,105  
    Total cost of sales, exclusive of depreciation and amortization expense shown below     23,456       17,719       51,606       44,006  
    Selling, general and administrative expenses     13,626       14,820       29,821       28,650  
    Depreciation     1,235       1,134       2,439       2,207  
    Amortization     167       167       334       334  
    (Loss) income from operations     (2,030 )     (4,150 )     2,259       (1,649 )
    Other income (expense)                                
    Interest expense, net     (68 )     (115 )     (110 )     (215 )
    Other income, net     1,563       2,203       2,446       3,340  
    Foreign currency exchange gain (loss), net     1,201       (507 )     1,198       (1,005 )
    Total other income     2,696       1,581       3,534       2,120  
    Income (loss) before income tax     666       (2,569 )     5,793       471  
    Income tax (benefit) expense     (1,032 )     270       (359 )     757  
    Net income (loss)     1,698       (2,839 )     6,152       (286 )
    Net income attributable to non-controlling interest     774       256       1,172       739  
    Net income (loss) attributable to NCS Multistage Holdings, Inc.   $ 924     $ (3,095 )   $ 4,980     $ (1,025 )
    Earnings (loss) per common share                                
    Basic earnings (loss) per common share attributable to NCS Multistage Holdings, Inc.   $ 0.36     $ (1.21 )   $ 1.93     $ (0.41 )
    Diluted earnings (loss) per common share attributable to NCS Multistage Holdings, Inc.   $ 0.34     $ (1.21 )   $ 1.84     $ (0.41 )
    Weighted average common shares outstanding                                
    Basic     2,594       2,548       2,581       2,528  
    Diluted     2,734       2,548       2,704       2,528  
     
    NCS MULTISTAGE HOLDINGS, INC.
    CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
    (In thousands, except share data)
    (Unaudited)
     
        June 30,     December 31,  
        2025     2024  
    Assets                
    Current assets                
    Cash and cash equivalents   $ 25,372     $ 25,880  
    Accounts receivable—trade, net     34,216       31,513  
    Inventories, net     43,510       40,971  
    Prepaid expenses and other current assets     2,707       2,063  
    Other current receivables     5,165       5,143  
    Total current assets     110,970       105,570  
    Noncurrent assets                
    Property and equipment, net     20,470       21,283  
    Goodwill     15,222       15,222  
    Identifiable intangibles, net     3,356       3,690  
    Operating lease assets     5,468       5,911  
    Deposits and other assets     622       712  
    Deferred income taxes, net     1,869       424  
    Total noncurrent assets     47,007       47,242  
    Total assets   $ 157,977     $ 152,812  
    Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity                
    Current liabilities                
    Accounts payable—trade   $ 9,997     $ 8,970  
    Accrued expenses     6,803       8,351  
    Income taxes payable     790       683  
    Operating lease liabilities     1,685       1,602  
    Current maturities of long-term debt     2,200       2,141  
    Other current liabilities     2,331       3,672  
    Total current liabilities     23,806       25,419  
    Noncurrent liabilities                
    Long-term debt, less current maturities     5,462       6,001  
    Operating lease liabilities, long-term     4,338       4,891  
    Other long-term liabilities     206       206  
    Deferred income taxes, net     186       186  
    Total noncurrent liabilities     10,192       11,284  
    Total liabilities     33,998       36,703  
    Commitments and contingencies                
    Stockholders’ equity                
    Preferred stock, $0.01 par value, 10,000,000 shares authorized, no shares issued and outstanding at June 30, 2025 and December 31, 2024            
    Common stock, $0.01 par value, 11,250,000 shares authorized, 2,607,362 shares issued and 2,540,849 shares outstanding at June 30, 2025 and 2,563,979 shares issued and 2,507,430 shares outstanding at December 31, 2024     26       26  
    Additional paid-in capital     448,582       447,384  
    Accumulated other comprehensive loss     (85,916 )     (87,604 )
    Retained deficit     (254,044 )     (259,024 )
    Treasury stock, at cost, 66,513 shares at June 30, 2025 and 56,549 shares at December 31, 2024     (2,211 )     (1,943 )
    Total stockholders’ equity     106,437       98,839  
    Non-controlling interest     17,542       17,270  
    Total equity     123,979       116,109  
    Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity   $ 157,977     $ 152,812  
     
    NCS MULTISTAGE HOLDINGS, INC.
    CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
    (In thousands)
    (Unaudited)
      Six Months Ended  
      June 30,  
      2025   2024  
    Cash flows from operating activities            
    Net income (loss) $ 6,152   $ (286 )
    Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by operating activities:            
    Depreciation and amortization   2,773     2,541  
    Amortization of deferred loan costs   104     103  
    Share-based compensation   2,837     2,062  
    Provision for inventory obsolescence   191     679  
    Deferred income tax (benefit) expense   (1,398 )   21  
    Gain on sale of property and equipment   (475 )   (340 )
    Provision for (recovery of) credit losses   19     (5 )
    Net foreign currency unrealized (gain) loss   (1,854 )   956  
    Proceeds from note receivable       61  
    Changes in operating assets and liabilities:            
    Accounts receivable—trade   (1,827 )   (1,024 )
    Inventories, net   (1,476 )   (1,501 )
    Prepaid expenses and other assets   972     (619 )
    Accounts payable—trade   1,719     1,353  
    Accrued expenses   (1,680 )   1,761  
    Other liabilities   (4,101 )   (2,092 )
    Income taxes receivable/payable   (80 )   429  
    Net cash provided by operating activities   1,876     4,099  
    Cash flows from investing activities            
    Purchases of property and equipment   (745 )   (633 )
    Purchase and development of software and technology       (53 )
    Proceeds from sales of property and equipment   271     293  
    Net cash used in investing activities   (474 )   (393 )
    Cash flows from financing activities            
    Payments on finance leases   (1,072 )   (932 )
    Line of credit borrowings   2,338     2,974  
    Payments of line of credit borrowings   (2,338 )   (2,974 )
    Treasury shares withheld   (268 )   (237 )
    Distribution to noncontrolling interest   (900 )   (500 )
    Net cash used in financing activities   (2,240 )   (1,669 )
    Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents   330     (143 )
    Net change in cash and cash equivalents   (508 )   1,894  
    Cash and cash equivalents beginning of period   25,880     16,720  
    Cash and cash equivalents end of period $ 25,372   $ 18,614  
    Noncash investing and financing activities            
    Assets obtained in exchange for new finance lease liabilities $ 723   $ 1,821  
    Assets obtained in exchange for new operating lease liabilities $ 247   $  
                 
    NCS MULTISTAGE HOLDINGS, INC.
    REVENUES BY GEOGRAPHIC AREA
    (In thousands)
    (Unaudited)
     
        Three Months Ended     Six Months Ended  
        June 30,     June 30,  
        2025     2024     2025     2024  
    United States                                
    Product sales   $ 11,930     $ 8,550     $ 18,797     $ 16,317  
    Services     1,682       3,241       4,187       5,485  
    Total United States     13,612       11,791       22,984       21,802  
    Canada                                
    Product sales     13,021       8,263       39,864       30,938  
    Services     4,948       3,795       15,823       12,789  
    Total Canada     17,969       12,058       55,687       43,727  
    Other Countries                                
    Product sales     2,825       2,209       4,181       3,525  
    Services     2,048       3,632       3,607       4,494  
    Total other countries     4,873       5,841       7,788       8,019  
    Total                                
    Product sales     27,776       19,022       62,842       50,780  
    Services     8,678       10,668       23,617       22,768  
    Total revenues   $ 36,454     $ 29,690     $ 86,459     $ 73,548  
     

    NCS MULTISTAGE HOLDINGS, INC.
    RECONCILIATION OF GAAP TO NON-GAAP FINANCIAL INFORMATION
    (In thousands, except per share data)
    (Unaudited)

    Non-GAAP Financial Measures 

    EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA Margin, Adjusted EBITDA Less Share-Based Compensation, Adjusted Gross Profit, Adjusted Gross Margin, Free Cash Flow, Free Cash Flow Less Distributions to Non-Controlling Interest and Net Working Capital (our “non-GAAP financial measures”) are not defined under generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”), are not measures of net income (loss), income (loss) from operations, gross profit and gross margin (inclusive of DD&A), cash provided by (used in) operating activities, working capital or any other performance measure derived in accordance with GAAP, and are subject to important limitations. Our non-GAAP financial measures may not be comparable to similarly titled measures of other companies in our industry and are not measures of performance calculated in accordance with GAAP. Our non-GAAP financial measures have important limitations as analytical tools and you should not consider them in isolation or as substitutes for analysis of our financial performance as reported under GAAP, and they should not be considered as alternatives to net income (loss), income (loss) from operations, gross profit, gross margin, cash provided by (used in) operating activities, working capital or any other performance measures derived in accordance with GAAP as measures of operating performance or as alternatives to cash flow from operating activities as measures of our liquidity.

    However, EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA Margin, Adjusted EBITDA Less Share-Based Compensation, Adjusted Gross Profit, Adjusted Gross Margin, Free Cash Flow, Free Cash Flow Less Distributions to Non-Controlling Interest and Net Working Capital are key metrics that management uses to assess the period-to-period performance of our core business operations or metrics that enable investors to assess our performance from period to period relative to the performance of other companies that are not subject to such factors, or who may provide similar non-GAAP measures in their public disclosures.

    The tables below set forth reconciliations of our non-GAAP financial measures to the most directly comparable measures of financial performance calculated under GAAP:

    NET WORKING CAPITAL

    Net working capital is defined as total current assets, excluding cash and cash equivalents, minus total current liabilities, excluding current maturities of long-term debt. Net working capital excludes cash and cash equivalents and current maturities of long-term debt in order to evaluate the investments in working capital that we believe are required to support our business. We believe that net working capital is useful in analyzing the cash flow and working capital needs of the Company, including determining the efficiencies of our operations and our ability to readily convert assets into cash.

        June 30,     December 31,  
        2025     2024  
    Working capital   $ 87,164     $ 80,151  
    Cash and cash equivalents     (25,372 )     (25,880 )
    Current maturities of long term debt     2,200       2,141  
    Net working capital   $ 63,992     $ 56,412  
     


    NCS MULTISTAGE HOLDINGS, INC.

    RECONCILIATION OF GAAP TO NON-GAAP FINANCIAL INFORMATION
    (In thousands, except per share data)
    (Unaudited)

    ADJUSTED GROSS PROFIT AND ADJUSTED GROSS MARGIN

    Adjusted gross profit is defined as total revenues minus cost of sales, exclusive of depreciation and amortization expense, which we present as a separate line item in our statement of operations. Adjusted gross margin represents adjusted gross profit as a percentage of total revenues.

        Three Months Ended     Six Months Ended  
        June 30,     June 30,  
        2025     2024     2025     2024  
    Total revenues   $ 36,454     $ 29,690     $ 86,459     $ 73,548  
    Total cost of sales, exclusive of depreciation and amortization expense     23,456       17,719       51,606       44,006  
    Total depreciation and amortization associated with cost of sales     729       653       1,444       1,269  
    Gross Profit   $ 12,269     $ 11,318     $ 33,409     $ 28,273  
    Gross Margin     34 %     38 %     39 %     38 %
    Exclude total depreciation and amortization associated with cost of sales     (729 )     (653 )     (1,444 )     (1,269 )
    Adjusted Gross Profit   $ 12,998     $ 11,971     $ 34,853     $ 29,542  
    Adjusted Gross Margin     36 %     40 %     40 %     40 %
     


    NCS MULTISTAGE HOLDINGS, INC.

    RECONCILIATION OF GAAP TO NON-GAAP FINANCIAL INFORMATION
    (In thousands)
    (Unaudited)

    EBITDA, ADJUSTED EBITDA, ADJUSTED EBITDA MARGIN, AND ADJUSTED EBITDA LESS SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION

    EBITDA is defined as net income (loss) before interest expense, net, income tax expense and depreciation and amortization. Adjusted EBITDA is defined as EBITDA adjusted to exclude certain items which we believe are not reflective of ongoing operating performance or which, in the case of share-based compensation, is non-cash in nature. Adjusted EBITDA Margin represents Adjusted EBITDA as a percentage of total revenues. Adjusted EBITDA Less Share-Based Compensation is defined as Adjusted EBITDA minus share-based compensation expense. We believe that Adjusted EBITDA is an important measure that excludes costs that do not reflect the Company’s ongoing operating performance, legal proceedings for intellectual property as further described below, and certain costs associated with our capital structure. We believe that Adjusted EBITDA Less Share-Based Compensation presents our financial performance in a manner that is comparable to the presentation provided by many of our peers.

    We periodically incur legal costs associated with the assertion of, or defense of, intellectual property, which we exclude from our definition of Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA Less Share-Based Compensation, unless we believe that settlement will occur prior to any material legal spend (included in the table below as “Professional Fees”). Although these costs may recur between periods, depending on legal matters then outstanding or in process, we believe the timing of when these costs are incurred does not typically match the settlement or recoveries associated with such matters, and therefore, can distort our operating results. Similarly, we exclude from Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA Less Share-Based Compensation the one-time settlement or recovery payment associated with these excluded legal matters when realized but would not exclude any go forward royalties or payments, if applicable. We expect to continue to incur these legal costs for current matters under appeal and for any future cases that may go to trial, provided that the amount will vary by period. 

        Three Months Ended     Six Months Ended  
        June 30,     June 30,  
        2025     2024     2025     2024  
    Net income (loss)   $ 1,698     $ (2,839 )   $ 6,152     $ (286 )
    Income tax (benefit) expense     (1,032 )     270       (359 )     757  
    Interest expense, net     68       115       110       215  
    Depreciation     1,235       1,134       2,439       2,207  
    Amortization     167       167       334       334  
    EBITDA     2,136       (1,153 )     8,676       3,227  
    Share-based compensation (a)     646       667       1,198       1,433  
    Professional fees (b)     370       677       1,359       930  
    Foreign currency exchange (gain) loss (c)     (1,201 )     507       (1,198 )     1,005  
    Other (d)     272       218       402       398  
    Adjusted EBITDA   $ 2,223     $ 916     $ 10,437     $ 6,993  
    Adjusted EBITDA Margin     6 %     3 %     12 %     10 %
    Adjusted EBITDA Less Share-Based Compensation   $ 1,577     $ 249     $ 9,239     $ 5,560  

    _______________________

    (a) Represents non-cash compensation charges related to share-based compensation granted to our officers, employees and directors.
    (b) Represents non-capitalizable costs of professional services primarily incurred or reversed in connection with our legal proceedings associated with the assertion of, or defense of, intellectual property as further described above as well as the cost incurred for the evaluation of potential strategic transactions.
    (c) Represents realized and unrealized foreign currency exchange gains and losses primarily due to movement in the foreign currency exchange rates during the applicable periods.
    (d) Represents the impact of a research and development subsidy that is included in income tax expense in accordance with GAAP along with other charges and credits.
       


    NCS MULTISTAGE HOLDINGS, INC.

    RECONCILIATION OF GAAP TO NON-GAAP FINANCIAL INFORMATION
    (In thousands)
    (Unaudited)

    FREE CASH FLOW AND FREE CASH FLOW LESS DISTRIBUTIONS TO NON-CONTROLLING INTEREST

    Free cash flow is defined as net cash provided by (used in) operating activities less purchases of property and equipment (inclusive of the purchase and development of software and technology) plus proceeds from sales of property and equipment, as presented in our consolidated statement of cash flows. We define free cash flow less distributions to non-controlling interest as free cash flow less amounts reported in the financing activities section of the statement of cash flows as distributions to non-controlling interest. We believe free cash flow is useful because it provides information to investors regarding the cash that was available in the period that was in excess of our needs to fund our capital expenditures and other investment needs. We believe that free cash flow less distributions to non-controlling interest is useful because it provides information to investors regarding the cash that was available in the period that was in excess of our needs to fund our capital expenditures, other investment needs, and cash distributions to our joint venture partner.

        Six Months Ended  
        June 30,  
        2025     2024  
    Net cash provided by operating activities   $ 1,876     $ 4,099  
    Purchases of property and equipment     (745 )     (633 )
    Purchase and development of software and technology           (53 )
    Proceeds from sales of property and equipment     271       293  
    Free cash flow   $ 1,402     $ 3,706  
    Distributions to non-controlling interest     (900 )     (500 )
    Free cash flow less distributions to non-controlling interest   $ 502     $ 3,206  

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch Helps Reintroduce John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act 

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) joined U.S. Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), Senate Judiciary Ranking Member Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) and the entire Senate Democratic caucus in reintroducing the John R. Lewis Voting Advancement Act, legislation that would update and restore critical safeguards of the original Voting Rights Act of 1965 that have been eroded in recent years by federal court rulings. The legislation would strengthen our democracy by reestablishing preclearance for jurisdictions with a pattern of voting rights violations, protecting minority communities subject to discriminatory voting practices, and defending election workers from threats and intimidation. It is named in honor of voting rights champion and former U.S. Congressman John Lewis of Georgia. 
    This legislation is especially relevant in Texas, where, following historic disapproval of Congressional Republicans’ tax bill, Texas state lawmakers are looking to add five additional Republican seats in the House of Representatives. The move comes in direct response to President Trump’s fears that voters may flip the House in the 2026 midterms.  
    “Voting is a sacred freedom, and depriving people of their right to participate in our democratic process is a threat to democracy. Right now, states across the country are violating this fundamental right by enacting discriminatory laws deliberately designed to keep people from the ballot box. The John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act works to restore crucial protections of the Voting Rights Act to ensure that everyone has a voice in our democratic system,” said Senator Welch. 
    “As I often say, a vote is a kind of prayer for the world we desire for ourselves and our children,” said Senator Reverend Warnock. “Our prayers are stronger when we pray together. Democracy is the political enactment of a spiritual idea that each of us has within ourselves the spark of the divine. We all have value, and if we all have value, we ought to have a voice in the direction of our country; we ought to have a vote.”   
    “There is no freedom more fundamental than the right to vote.  But between the Trump Administration’s executive order on voter registration and state legislatures’ gerrymandering districts, there has been a clear, concerted effort to chip away at the protections guaranteed to every American under the Voting Rights Act,” said Senator Durbin. “In the face of these injustices that target communities of color and their right to vote, we must continue the work of civil rights leaders like John Lewis and strengthen the framework of the Voting Rights Act by passing the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act.” 
    “The ‘good trouble’ John Lewis spoke of is not just an inspirational phrase – it’s a challenge to all of us to rise to the occasion and to fight for the ideals that make our country great. I’ve been clear that when it comes to protecting democracy, we must fight fire with fire. We will not stand idly by while Republicans’ revert to Jim Crow era voting restrictions— suppressing votes and people that do not match their ideals. We will fight to protect democracy – the bedrock of our society and the foundation of what makes the American dream possible,” said Democratic Leader Schumer.  
    In the wake of the Supreme Court’s damaging Shelby County decision in 2013—which crippled the federal government’s ability under the Voting Rights Act of 1965 to prevent discriminatory changes to voting laws and procedures—states across the country have unleashed a torrent of voter suppression efforts, including SB 202 in Georgia. The Supreme Court’s decision in Brnovich v Democratic National Committee delivered yet another blow to the Voting Rights Act by making it significantly harder for plaintiffs to win lawsuits under the landmark law against discriminatory voting laws or procedures. 
    In addition to Senator Warnock, Ranking Member Durbin, Leader Schumer, and Senator Welch, the legislation is cosponsored by the entire Democratic caucus. The VRAA is endorsed by 178 organizations. These organizations understand that voting rights are preservative of all other rights and progress on a range of critical issues cannot take place if citizens cannot make their voices heard. The list of endorsing Georgia and national organizations of the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act can be found here. 
    Learn more about the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act. 
    Read and download the full text of the bill. 

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Improved taxation systems key to reducing Libya’s dependence on oil revenues

    Source: APO – Report:

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    The ECA office for North Africa concluded in Tunisia a four-day capacity building workshop on Modernizing Libya’s Tax System focusing on E-Taxation Services. The training aimed to enhance the Libyan tax authority’s practical knowledge of international best practices in e-taxation and strengthen their ability to set an efficient e-taxation system. 

    “This training has been an opportunity for our team to share with Libya its extensive experience in building and sustaining sound tax systems to support economic development and improve public revenue,” said Adam Elhiraika, Director of the ECA Office for North Africa. “It also allowed us to contribute to the promotion of South-South cooperation between our member countries thanks to the valuable contributions of trainers provided by the Egyptian Taxation Administration,” he added.

    The training brought together senior managers, supervisors, and IT personnel involved in the development and implementation of e-taxation systems in Libya. Participants enhanced their skills in areas such as taxpayer registration, electronic filing, return processing, and data analytics, with special attention to the needs of large taxpayers. The training also deepened their understanding of international best practices in e-taxation and the legal, organizational, and technical requirements for a successful digital transformation of tax operations.

    Libya’s economy currently remains highly dependent on oil production, making it vulnerable to fluctuations in production levels and global oil prices. These disruptions can have significant impacts on government revenues when they happen. 

    To address this issue, the Libyan government has been working to diversify public revenues and reduce the national economy’s reliance on hydrocarbons by increasing tax collections and promoting non-oil exports. However, tax revenue mobilization has remained weak so far due to issues such as widespread tax evasion, a narrow tax base, and low levels of taxpayer compliance.

    This initiative comes in support to the Libyan Tax Authority 2021 strategy which aims to modernize income tax administration and advance the digital transformation of tax processes alongside reforms in legislation, institutional structure, infrastructure, and human resources. 

    – on behalf of United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA).

    MIL OSI Africa

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Uganda: Nubian community petitions over years of marginalisation

    Source: APO – Report:

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    The Nubian community in Uganda has petitioned Parliament, seeking intervention over decades of alleged discrimination and neglect by successive governments.

    Despite being recognized as an indigenous tribe in the 1995 Constitution, the community claims it has been marginalized politically, economically, and socially.

    In a petition presented by to Parliament by Hon. Hassan Kirumira (NUP, Katikamu South) on Wednesday, 30 July 2025, the Nubians highlight historical injustices and ongoing challenges faced, particularly in Bombo town, their traditional home. “Even though we are citizens of Uganda, the Nubian community is still left out politically, economically, and socially,” the petition reads.

    Nubians trace their roots in Uganda back to 1844 and have since integrated into Ugandan society through intermarriage and national development contributions. “Nubians are rarely considered for public service appointments, including ministries, government boards, and foreign missions,” Kirumira said adding that they are barely represented in local government structures.

    The petitioners appealed to President Museveni to fulfill his promise of upgrading Bombo to a municipality, which would bring dignity, jobs, and development to the area. The community also seeks redress for past injustices, including compensation for losses suffered during the 1979 war following the fall of Idi Amin’s regime. Additionally, they highlight current challenges such as inadequate healthcare facilities, youth unemployment, school dropouts and teenage pregnancies.

    In the petition, the Nubians call on the government to address their concerns and ensure their inclusion and participation in national development.

    – on behalf of Parliament of the Republic of Uganda.

    MIL OSI Africa

  • MIL-OSI Africa: African Peace Award 2025

    Source: APO – Report:

    I bring you compliments from the board and management of African Peace Magazine UK (https://AfricanPeace.org).

    On behalf of the Chairman Justice Suleiman GaladimaJSC, OFR, CFR (Rtd.) African Peace Magazine UK, humbly wish to specially invite you to attend the Hybrid and in person Award.

    The African Peace Magazine UK, in conjunction with her strategic partners: Rethink Africa Foundation, African Fact Checkers, Centre for peace and Conflict management in Africa, African Right Watch Television Ltd and several others is set to host the 15th Edition of the prestigious African Peace Awards, it is scheduled to hold in London England with the theme “The Magic of Peace”.

    African Peace Magazine UK, has been publishing for well over 15 years, and we are committed to promoting Peace, business networking, good governance and improved condition of living for Africans.

    Established in 2009, African Peace Award is an international award presented annually to honor individuals and organizations in various fields that have made outstanding contributions toward the realization of a peaceful and harmonious world as envisioned in the Declaration for All Life on Earth. They are selected not only in recognition of their past achievements, but for their ongoing contribution to building a better future. www.AfricanPeaceAwards.com

    African Peace Award is usually presented at a ceremony during the annual dinner and lecture, where the laureate takes center stage to deliver a commemorative address and receive a medal and a diploma together with a monetary prize.

    In addition to this annual award, the Culture of Peace Special Award is presented occasionally to honor individuals and organizations in various fields that have notably contributed to spreading and fostering a Culture of Peace around the world.

    The event is designed to host business, political, and diplomatic leaders. It is set to have in attendance, policy makers and think-tanks on Africa and Africa related issues.

    The African Peace Awards 2025 seeks to honor persons, institutions, organization, governments and others whose actions, and efforts have in one way improved or contributed to peace keeping and conflict management in Africa as well as improving the lives of Africans. 

    The African Peace brand has noted that Peace promotion and conflict management in any society alleviates uncertainty and risk which in turn promotes economic growth in any given community. It contributes to the economic growth of the community by increasing the productivity in capital and labour as well as good governance.

    The African Peace brand introduces its awards in the hopes of promoting peace globally and specifically in Africa with the hope of effecting change in Africa first and then globally.

    Several African Presidents, heads of Government, first ladies, past president and Vice presidents, top business CEOs, diplomats and others have received the Award in the past.

    – on behalf of African Peace Magazine.

    Contact Information:
    Attendance is strictly by invitation. For your VIP and VVIP Access cards
    To get you invite kindly contact us:
    +447771217805
    +2348033975746
    +447407399766
    +1(443)8835678

    For sponsorship, partnership, Exhibition and speaking opportunities and all other enquiries please contact:
    Chia Sandra
    International Affairs
    +2348033975746
    +447407399766

    Nigeria Abuja Office:
    Suite FT 12B Alibro Atrium Plaza Utako Abuja
    +2348033975746

    South African Office:
    16 Ridge Road Vorna Valley Midland 1686 South Africa
    +27662449117

    Angola:
    Call +244928690892
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    London Office:
    10 Saint Andrew Road Bedford MK 402LJ England
    Call +447777121780
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    Email: africanpeacemag@gmail.com

    Social Media:
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    About African Peace Magazine:
    The African Peace Magazine is published by African Peace Magazine (U.K.) Limited, a company registered in the United Kingdom. We are also registered in Nigeria, Angola and South Africa. The magazine focuses on bringing the best of Africa to a global audience, telling the African story from an African perspective, while evolving solutions to peculiar challenges being faced by the continent today.

    Websites: https://AfricanPeace.org
    www.AfricanPeaceAwards.com
    https://AfricanOilAndGasSummit.com

    Media files

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    MIL OSI Africa

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Eswatini’s Digital Transformation Crucial to Unlocking Growth, Jobs, and Economic Resilience

    Source: APO – Report:

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    Eswatini needs to digitalize, strengthen public finances and address structural economic constraints to sustain growth, according to the latest edition of the Eswatini Economic Update (EEU) launched by the World Bank Group (WBG) today, titled: Harnessing the Potential of Digital Technologies for Eswatini’s Growth and Job Creation. The report also provides analysis of the country’s recent economic performance and prospects for the medium term. 

    Eswatini’s economy is projected to grow by about 5% in 2025 through a combination of policies and supportive conditions amid global economic uncertainty. An increase in public and private investment is projected to contribute to economic activity. The challenge will be to maintain this economic momentum and ensure growth is more inclusive over the medium term. The nation faces pressing needs to digitalize and address structural constraints, diversify its economy and strengthen public finances.

    The second edition of the EEU identifies digitalization as a key transformative strategy for the country, particularly as it addresses significant challenges such as a 35.4% unemployment rate and structural inefficiencies in vital sectors including agriculture, trade, and services. By accelerating digital transformation, Eswatini can boost productivity, create sustainable new jobs, and increase domestic revenue helping to reduce reliance on volatile revenues.

    “This report aligns with the Kingdom of Eswatini’s 2024-2028 digital strategy. We welcome the World Bank’s insights on how digital transformation can contribute to accelerating our ongoing efforts to boost inclusive economic growth and domestic revenues and in so doing reduce reliance on SACU transfers,” said Honorable Thambo Gina, Minister for Economic Planning and Development for the Kingdom of Eswatini at the report’s launch in Mbabane.

    Eswatini is making progress in expanding digital access, with nearly 95% of the population now covered by 4G networks. However, only about 58% of people are using the internet. One of the main reasons is the high cost of data, which takes up 3.47% of GNI per capita – above what is considered affordable in the region. To boost digital adoption and attract greater investment, the report recommends reforming the telecom market, including restructuring the telecom State-Owned Enterprise, adopting open access policies to ensure that all service providers can use the same network infrastructure on fair and equal terms, and update regulatory frameworks to promote competition and lower costs. In addition, with almost half of the country’s Small and Medium Enterprises facing digital adoption barriers, targeted efforts in skills development and entrepreneurship support, including linkages to public procurement, are essential to drive job creation and innovation.

    “Eswatini’s digital transformation presents an opportunity to drive inclusive growth. Realizing this will require bold reforms to unlock the full potential of digital technologies, including the restructuring of Eswatini Posts and Telecommunications Corporation (EPTC),” said Satu Kahkonen, World Bank Division Director for Eswatini. “In addition, strengthening coordination across government initiatives, accelerating digital skills development, and fostering innovation will be key to unlocking this potential. Addressing these challenges will enable the country to capture the full benefits of a digital economy.”

    To unlock Eswatini’s digital potential for higher economic growth and job creation, the EEU recommends three core policy pillars:

     (i) Enhance resilience through effective macroeconomic management;

    (ii) Stimulate job creation through private sector development by improving the enabling environment;

    (iii) Provide better and more affordable services through efficient public spending.

    The policy options include strengthening digital governance through clearer institutional roles and a national change management program; accelerating Eswatini Post and Telecommunications Corporation (EPTC) reforms to enhance operational efficiency and introduce open access; investing in digital public infrastructure, including a modern digital ID system; developing a National Digital Skills Action Plan aligned with labor market needs; and fostering a competitive innovation ecosystem through regulatory reforms, financing access, and support for startups via public procurement opportunities.

    Addressing these priorities will position Eswatini to harness digital transformation for broader economic inclusion and growth.

    – on behalf of The World Bank Group.

    MIL OSI Africa

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Supporting innovation research

    Source: Government of Canada regional news (2)

    MIL OSI Canada News

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Expanded, streamlined HPV vaccine program protects more people against cancers

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    The Province is broadening access to the free, publicly funded human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine and simplifying the immunization schedule, ensuring more people in B.C. have the protection they need against HPV-related cancers.

    “The HPV vaccine is a powerful tool to protect health and prevent cancer,” said Josie Osborne, Minister of Health. “By expanding free access and making it easier for people to get immunized, we’re taking another meaningful step forward in our 10-year Cancer Action Plan – reducing cancer rates and improving health outcomes for people across British Columbia.”

    Following guidance from the National Advisory Committee on Immunization and provincial immunization experts, the government is streamlining the immunization process for HPV.

    Starting Thursday, July 31, 2025, the HPV vaccine schedule will shift from two doses to one dose for people age nine to 20. People 21 and older will be eligible for a two-dose series, with six-months between doses. Individuals who are immunocompromised will continue to need a three-dose series.

    With this change, the Province is expanding eligibility for B.C.’s publicly funded HPV immunization program to include all people 19 to 26, plus people 27 to 45 who are living with HIV or who self-identify as belonging to the gay, bisexual, questioning, Two-Spirit, transgender and non-binary communities.

    Those who have undergone post-colposcopy treatments on or after July 31, 2025, are eligible to get the vaccine at any age. A colposcopy is a procedure to check for abnormal areas on the cervix and vagina.

    The HPV vaccine will continue to be offered through voluntary, school-based immunization clinics starting with students in Grade 6 and through multi-grade catch-up clinics, as well as in some community pharmacies for those who may have missed their dose. Other eligible people can get the vaccine from some pharmacies, sexually transmitted infection clinics, public-health units, primary-care providers or a community-health nurse. People living in First Nation communities can contact their community health centre or nursing station to book an appointment.

    “B.C.’s community pharmacists are proud to be an accessible provider of vaccines for British Columbians living in communities, large and small,” said pharmacist Colleen Hogg, chair of the BC Pharmacy Association. “Pharmacists are one of the top immunizers and are there for patients when they need us.”

    This initiative is a part of B.C.’s 10-year Cancer Action Plan to better prevent, detect and treat cancers, and to deliver improved care for people facing cancer now, while preparing for growing needs of the future.

    Learn More:

    For general information and how to book an appointment, visit:
    https://www.healthlinkbc.ca/health-library/health-features/get-hpv-vaccine

    For locating services, including public-health units offering immunizations, visit:
    https://www.healthlinkbc.ca/find-care/find-health-services

    To access your health information online, visit:
    https://www.healthgateway.gov.bc.ca/

    A backgrounder follows.

    MIL OSI Canada News

  • MIL-OSI: QUAINT OAK BANCORP, INC. ANNOUNCES SECOND QUARTER EARNINGS

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Southampton, PA , July 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Quaint Oak Bancorp, Inc. (the “Company”) (OTCQB: QNTO), the holding company for Quaint Oak Bank (the “Bank”), announced today net income for the quarter ended June 30, 2025 of $272,000, or $0.10 per basic and diluted share, compared to net income of $100,000, or $0.04 per basic and diluted share, for the same period in 2024. Net income for the six months ended June 30, 2025 was $189,000, or $0.07 per basic and diluted share, compared to net income of $973,000, or $0.39 per basic and diluted share, for the same period in 2024.

    Robert T. Strong, Chief Executive Officer stated, “I am pleased to report that our earnings for the second quarter ended June 30, 2025, were measurably improved over the prior quarter. We anticipate that we have generally stabilized expenses except for certain one-time costs expected to be incurred during the second half of 2025 as we rectify and complete the build out of our business lines.”

    Mr. Strong added, “Uncertainties in national and international economics continue. However, compared to our first quarter report, and despite the housing market still not thriving, our mortgage banking company improved in its performance. Our SBA production is now generally on target, along with commercial loan sales becoming more productive.”

    Mr. Strong continued, “Loan closings are more consistent while asset growth is well contained as a result of regular loan sales into a secondary market.”

    Mr. Strong commented, “We have been reporting weakness in the small business sector of our loan portfolio which still exists. However, our asset quality ratios have improved. Our non-performing assets as a percent of total assets are reported at 0.89%, our non-performing loans as a percentage of total loans receivable, net is reported at 1.10% both as of June 30, 2025. Additionally, our Texas Ratio is reported at 9.24% as of June 30, 2025.”

    Mr. Strong concluded, “As always, our current and continued business strategy focuses on long term profitability and maintaining healthy capital ratios both of which reflect our strong commitment to shareholder value.”

    Comparison of Quarter-over-Quarter Operating Results

    Net income amounted to $272,000 for the three months ended June 30, 2025, an increase of $172,000, or 172.0%, compared to net income of $100,000 for the three months ended June 30, 2024. The increase in net income on a comparative quarterly basis was primarily the result of a decrease in interest expense of $1.1 million, and an increase in non-interest income of $643,000, partially offset by a decrease in interest and dividend income of $703,000, an increase in the provision for credit losses of $478,000, an increase in non-interest expense of $297,000, and an increase in the net provision for income taxes from continuing operations of $127,000.

    The $703,000, or 6.5%, decrease in interest and dividend income for the quarter was primarily due to a $66.2 million decrease in the average balance of due from banks – interest earning, which decreased from $103.9 million for the three months ended June 30, 2024 to $37.7 million for the three months ended June 30, 2025, and had the effect of decreasing interest income $960,000, a decrease in the average balance of loans receivable, net, which decreased $15.9 million from $605.3 million for the three months ended June 30, 2024 to $589.4 million for the three months ended June 30, 2025 and had the effect of decreasing interest income $245,000, and a decrease in the average yield on due from banks – interest earning, which decreased from 5.80% for the three months ended June 30, 2024 to 4.21% for the three months ended June 30, 2025 and had the effect of decreasing interest income $150,000. Partially offsetting the decrease in interest and dividend income was a 42 basis point increase in the average yield on loans receivable, net from 6.16% for the three months ended June 30, 2024 to 6.58% for the three months ended June 30, 2025, and had the effect of increasing interest income $622,000.

    The $1.1 million, or 16.6%, decrease in interest expense for the three months ended June 30, 2025 over the comparable period in 2024 was driven by a $1.6 million, or 25.5%, decrease in interest expense on deposits, which was primarily attributable to a decrease in average balances of interest-bearing deposits as a result of reduced correspondent banking activity and reduction in a money market deposit through a deposit placement agreement. Also contributing to the decrease in interest expense for the three months ended June 30, 2025 was a $320,000, or 65.6%, decrease in interest expense on subordinated debt. These decreases in interest expense were partially offset by a $481,000, or 288.0%, increase in the interest expense on Federal Home Loan Bank borrowings due to a $38.3 million, or 212.1%, increase in the average balance of Federal Home Loan Bank borrowings which increased from $18.0 million for the three months ended June 30, 2024 to $56.3 million for the three months ended June 30, 2025, and a $275,000 increase in interest expense on senior debt. The average interest rate spread increased from 1.57% for the three months ended June 30, 2024 to 2.19% for the three months ended June 30, 2025 and the net interest margin increased from 2.28% for the three months ended June 30, 2024 to 2.85% for the three months ended June 30, 2025.

    The $478,000, or 1,165.9%, increase in the provision for credit losses for the three months ended June 30, 2025 over the three months ended June 30, 2024 was primarily due to an increase in charge-offs during the three months ended June 30, 2025, partially offset by a decrease in loans receivable, net.

    The $643,000, or 49.3%, increase in non-interest income for the three months ended June 30, 2025 over the comparable period in 2024 was primarily attributable to a $485,000, or 86.5%, increase in net gain on sale of loans, a $413,000, or 421.4%, increase in gain on sale of SBA loans, a $97,000, or 53.0%, increase in mortgage banking, equipment lending and title abstract fees, and a $20,000, or 11.4%, increase in insurance commissions. These increases were partially offset by a $359,000, or 149.6%, decrease in other fees and service charges, and a $16,000, or 100.0%, decrease in real estate sales commissions, net. The reduction in other fees and service charges is attributable to reduced correspondent banking activities.

    The $297,000, or 5.7%, increase in non-interest expense for the three months ended June 30, 2025 over the comparable period in 2024 was primarily due to a $152,000, or 39.8%, increase in other expense, a $128,000, or 41.2%, increase in data processing expense, a $27,000, or 37.0%, increase in advertising expense, an $18,000, or 11.5%, increase in professional fees, a $16,000, or 3.9%, increase in occupancy and equipment expense, and a $15,000, or 30.0%, increase in directors’ fees and expenses. These increases were partially offset by a $31,000, or 0.8%, decrease in salaries and employee benefits expense, and a $28,000, or 17.2%, decrease in FDIC deposit insurance assessment.

    The provision for income tax from continuing operations increased $127,000, or 153.01%, from $83,000 for the three months ended June 30, 2024 to $210,000 for the three months ended June 30, 2025 due primarily to an increase in pre-tax income.

    Comparison of Six-Month Operating Results

    Net income amounted to $189,000 for the six months ended June 30, 2025, a decrease of $784,000, or 80.6%, compared to net income of $973,000 for the six months ended June 30, 2024. The decrease in net income on a comparative quarterly basis was primarily the result of a decrease in interest and dividend income of $2.9 million, an increase in non-interest expense of $716,000, and a decrease in net income from discontinued operations of $406,000, partially offset by a decrease in interest expense of $2.1 million, an increase in non-interest income of $821,000, a decrease in the provision for credit losses of $217,000, and a decrease in the net provision for income taxes from continuing operations of $135,000.

    The $2.9 million, or 12.6%, decrease in interest and dividend income was primarily due to a decrease in the average balance of loans receivable, net, which decreased $42.8 million from $631.9 million for the six months ended June 30, 2024 to $589.1 million for the six months ended June 30, 2025 and had the effect of decreasing interest income $1.4 million, a $49.7 million decrease in the average balance of due from banks – interest earning, which decreased from $86.8 million for the six months ended June 30, 2024 to $37.1 million for the six months ended June 30, 2025, and had the effect of decreasing interest income $1.3 million, and a 124 basis point decrease in the average yield on due from banks – interest earning from 5.27% for the six months ended June 30, 2024 to 4.03% for the six months ended June 30, 2025, and had the effect of decreasing interest income $230,000.

    The $2.1 million, or 15.2%, decrease in interest expense for the six months ended June 30, 2025 over the comparable period in 2024 was driven by a $2.8 million, or 23.3%, decrease in interest expense on deposits, which was primarily attributable to a decrease in the average balance of interest-bearing deposits as a result of reduced correspondent banking activity and reduction in a money market deposit through a deposit placement agreement. Also contributing to the decrease in interest expense for the six months ended June 30, 2025 was a $352,000, or 36.2% decrease in interest expense on subordinated debt. These decreases in interest expense were partially offset by $479,000 increase in the interest expense on Federal Home Loan Bank borrowings due to a $29.1 million, or 135.1%, increase in the average balance of Federal Home Loan Bank borrowings which increased from $21.6 million for the six months ended June 30, 2024 to $50.7 million for the six months ended June 30, 2025, and a $391,000 increase in interest expense on senior debt. The average interest rate spread increased from 1.81% for the six months ended June 30, 2024 to 2.13% for the six months ended June 30, 2025 while the net interest margin increased from 2.62% for the six months ended June 30, 2024 to 2.74% for the six months ended June 30, 2025.

    The $217,000, or 19.8%, decrease in the provision for credit losses for the six months ended June 30, 2025 over the six months ended June 30, 2024 was primarily due to a decrease in loans receivable, net, partially offset by an increase in charge-offs during the six months ended June 30, 2025.

    The $821,000, or 28.4%, increase in non-interest income for the six months ended June 30, 2025 over the comparable period in 2024 was primarily attributable to a $691,000, or 544.1%, increase in gain on sale of SBA loans, a $607,000, or 40.6%, increase in net gain on sale of loans, a $53,000, or 16.2%, increase in insurance commissions, and a $36,000, or 9.2%, increase in mortgage banking, equipment lending and title abstract fees. These increases were partially offset by a $553,000, or 118.7%, decrease in other fees and service charges, and a $20,000, or 100.0%, decrease in real estate sales commissions, net.

    The $716,000, or 6.9%, increase in non-interest expense for the six months ended June 30, 2025 over the comparable period in 2024 was primarily due to a $268,000, or 46.8%, increase in data processing expense, a $206,000, or 23.7%, increase in other expense, a $197,000, or 29.6%, increase in occupancy and equipment expense, a $100,000, or 33.7%, increase in professional fees, a $39,000, or 24.4%, increase in advertising expense, and a $29,000, or 28.7%, increase in directors’ fees and expenses. These increases were partially offset by an $80,000, or 23.8%, decrease in FDIC deposit insurance assessment, and a $43,000, or 0.6%, decrease in salaries and employee benefits expense.

    The provision for income tax from continuing operations decreased $135,000, or 38.9%, from $347,000 for the six months ended June 30, 2024 to $212,000 for the six months ended June 30, 2025 due primarily to a decrease in pre-tax income.

    Comparison of Financial Condition

    The Company’s total assets at June 30, 2025 were $670.8 million, a decrease of $14.4 million, or 2.1%, from $685.2 million at December 31, 2024. This decrease in total assets was primarily due to a $14.1 million, or 22.4%, decrease in cash and cash equivalents, an $8.3 million, or 12.9%, decrease in loans held for sale, and a $430,000, or 25.8%, decrease in investment securities available for sale. Also contributing to the decrease in assets was a $45,000, or 2.8%, decrease in premises and equipment, net, and a $24,000, or 31.2%, decrease in other intangible, net of accumulated amortization. Partially offsetting the decrease in total assets was a $7.0 million, or 1.3%, increase in loans receivable, net of allowance for credit losses, a $694,000, or 17.5%, increase in accrued interest receivable, a $477,000, or 21.5%, increase in investment in Federal Home Loan Bank stock, at cost, a $228,000, or 2.9%, increase in prepaid expenses and other assets, and a $61,000, or 1.4%, increase in bank-owned life insurance. The largest increases within the loan portfolio occurred in one-to-four family owner occupied loans which increased $10.9 million, or 42.0%, home equity loans which increased $3.0 million, or 52.1%, construction loans which increased $1.9 million, or 10.3%, and commercial real estate loans, which increased $372,000, or 0.1%. Partially offsetting these increases were multi-family residential loans which decreased $4.0, or 8.7%, commercial business loans which decreased $3.9 million, or 3.4%, and one-to-four family non-owner occupied loans which decreased $2.1 million, or 6.1%.

    Loans held for sale decreased $8.3 million, or 12.9%, from $64.3 million at December 31, 2024 to $56.0 million at June 30, 2025 as the Bank’s mortgage banking subsidiary, Quaint Oak Mortgage, LLC, originated $55.3 million of one-to-four family residential loans during the six months ended June 30, 2025 and sold $51.2 million of loans in the secondary market. The Bank’s commercial real estate subsidiary, Oakmont Commercial, LLC, originated $19.0 million of commercial real estate loans during the six months ended June 30, 2025 and sold $28.7 million of loans in the secondary market during this same period. Additionally, the Bank originated $6.0 million of SBA loans and sold $8.7 of SBA loans in the secondary market in the same period.

    Total deposits decreased $21.1 million, or 3.8%, to $532.2 million at June 30, 2025 from $553.3 million at December 31, 2024. This decrease in deposits was primarily attributable to a decrease of $40.8 million, or 25.1%, in money market accounts, and a decrease of $22.8 million, or 47.7%, in interest bearing checking accounts as the Company exited one of its correspondent banking relationships. These decreases in deposits were partially offset by an increase of $29.6 million, or 10.5%, in certificates of deposit, an increase of $12.6 million, or 21.2%, in non-interest bearing checking accounts, and a $268,000, or 54.5%, increase in savings accounts.

    Total Federal Home Loan Bank (FHLB) borrowings increased $12.1 million, or 25.4%, to $60.0 million at June 30, 2025 from $47.9 million at December 31, 2024 as the Bank utilized a portion of its borrowing capacity for liquidity purposes.

    Senior debt, net of unamortized debt issuance costs, increased $9.5 million from none at December 31, 2024 as the Company entered into a Senior Unsecured Note Purchase Agreement with certain institutional accredited investors pursuant to which the Company issued an aggregate of $9.75 million in aggregate principal amount of Fixed Rate Unsecured Senior Notes due March 1, 2028 (the “Senior Debt Notes”) in a private placement. The Company issued to an accredited individual investor an additional $250,000 in principal amount of the Senior Debt Notes as of March 4, 2025 for a total of $10.0 million in aggregate principal amount. The Senior Debt Notes bear interest at a fixed annual rate of 11.00%, payable semi-annually in arrears on March 1 and September 1 of each year, beginning September 1, 2025. The maturity date of the Senior Debt Notes is March 1, 2028.

    Subordinated debt, net of unamortized debt issuance costs, decreased $14.0 million, or 63.6%, to $8.0 million at June 30, 2025 from $22.0 million at December 31, 2024 as the Company used the net proceeds from the sale of the Senior Debt Notes to repay a portion of the outstanding $14.0 million aggregate principal amount of its 8.5% Fixed Rate Subordinated Notes upon their maturity on March 15, 2025.

    Total stockholders’ equity from continuing operations decreased $360,000, or 0.7%, to $52.3 million at June 30, 2025 from $52.6 million at December 31, 2024. Contributing to the decrease were dividends paid of $683,000, and purchase of treasury stock of $31,000. The decrease in stockholders’ equity was partially offset by net income for the six months ended June 30, 2025 of $189,000, amortization of stock awards and options under our stock compensation plans of $121,000, the reissuance of treasury stock under the Bank’s 401(k) Plan of $40,000, and other comprehensive income, net of $4,000.

    Non-performing loans at June 30, 2025 totaled $5.9 million, or 1.10%, of total loans receivable, net of allowance for credit losses, consisting of $4.8 million of loans on non-accrual status and $1.2 million of loans 90-days or more delinquent. Non-accrual loans consist of one one-to-four family residential owner occupied loan, nine commercial real estate loans, and 18 commercial business loans. Included in the 18 commercial business loans is one pool of equipment loans. Loans 90-days or more past due include one one-to-four family residential owner occupied loan, one one-to-four family residential non-owner occupied loan, and four commercial business loans, all of which are still accruing. All non-performing loans are either well-collateralized or adequately reserved for. During the six months ended June 30, 2025, 16 commercial business loans totaling $1.0 million that were previously on non-accrual were charged-off through the allowance for credit losses. Non-performing loans at December 31, 2024 totaled $5.7 million, or 1.07%, of total loans receivable, net of allowance for credit losses, consisting of $3.9 million of loans on non-accrual status and $1.8 million of loans 90-days or more delinquent. Non-accrual loans consist of one commercial real estate loan, and ten commercial business loans. Included in the ten commercial business loans is one pool of equipment loans. Loans 90-days or more past due include one one-to-four family residential owner occupied loan and two commercial real estate loans, all of which are still accruing. All non-performing loans are either well-collateralized or adequately reserved for. During the year ended December 31, 2024, 19 commercial business loans totaling $1.6 million, and one construction loan of $187,000, that were previously on non-accrual were charged-off through the allowance for credit losses.

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

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

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

    QUAINT OAK BANCORP, INC.
    Consolidated Balance Sheets
    (In Thousands)
          At June 30,       At December 31,  
          2025       2024  
          (Unaudited)       (Unaudited)  
    Assets                
      Cash and cash equivalents   $ 48,891     $ 62,989  
      Investment in interest-earning time deposits     912       912  
      Investment securities available for sale at fair value     1,236       1,666  
      Loans held for sale     56,013       64,281  
      Loans receivable, net of allowance for credit losses (2025: $6,326; 2024: $6,476)     541,690       534,693  
      Accrued interest receivable     4,655       3,961  
      Investment in Federal Home Loan Bank stock, at cost     2,691       2,214  
      Bank-owned life insurance     4,508       4,447  
      Premises and equipment, net     1,581       1,626  
      Goodwill     515       515  
      Other intangible, net of accumulated amortization     53       77  
      Prepaid expenses and other assets     8,015       7,787  
           Total Assets   $ 670,760     $ 685,168  
    Liabilities and Stockholders Equity                
    Liabilities                
      Non-interest bearing   $ 97,432     $ 59,783  
        Interest-bearing     434,744       493,469  
           Total deposits     532,176       553,252  
      Federal Home Loan Bank borrowings     60,000       47,855  
      Senior debt, net of unamortized costs     9,531        
      Subordinated debt     8,000       22,000  
      Accrued interest payable     1,026       937  
      Advances from borrowers for taxes and insurance     2,915       3,122  
      Accrued expenses and other liabilities     4,855       5,385  
              Total Liabilities     618,503       632,551  
    Total StockholdersEquity     52,257       52,617  
           Total Liabilities and StockholdersEquity   $ 670,760     $ 685,168  

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

          For the Three       For the Six  
          Months Ended       Months Ended  
          June 30,       June 30,  
          2025       2024       2025       2024  
          (Unaudited)       (Unaudited)  
    Interest and Dividend Income                                
      Interest on loans, including fees   $ 9,695     $ 9,317     $ 19,218     $ 20,550  
      Interest and dividends on time deposits, investment securities, interest-bearing deposits with others, and Federal Home Loan Bank stock     499       1,580       902       2,469  
        Total Interest and Dividend Income     10,194       10,897       20,120       23,019  
    Interest Expense                                
      Interest on deposits     4,598       6,168       9,328       12,154  
      Interest on FHLB borrowings     648       167       1,132       409  
      Interest on senior debt     275             391        
      Interest on subordinated debt     168       488       620       972  
        Total Interest Expense     5,689       6,823       11,471       13,535  
                                     
    Net Interest Income   $ 4,505     $ 4,074     $ 8,649     $ 9,484  
    Provision for Credit LossesLoans     464             790       1,084  
    (Recovery of) Provision for Credit LossesUnfunded Commitments     (27 )     (41 )     88       11  
       Total Provision for (Recovery of) Credit Losses     437       (41 )     878       1,095  
       Net Interest Income after Provision for Credit Losses     4,068       4,115       7,771       8,389  
                                     
    Non-Interest Income                                
      Mortgage banking, equipment lending and title abstract fees     280       183       426       390  
      Real estate sales commissions, net           16             20  
      Insurance commissions     196       176       381       328  
      Other fees and services charges     (119 )     240       (87 )     466  
      Net loan servicing income     1       2       5       3  
      Income from bank-owned life insurance     32       28       62       57  
      Net gain on sale of loans     1,046       561       2,102       1,495  
      Gain on the sale of SBA loans     511       98       818       127  
        Total Non-Interest Income     1,947       1,304       3,707       2,886  
                                     
    Non-Interest Expense                                
      Salaries and employee benefits     3,642       3,673       7,292       7,335  
      Directors’ fees and expenses     65       50       130       101  
      Occupancy and equipment     432       416       863       666  
      Data processing     439       311       841       573  
      Professional fees     174       156       397       297  
      FDIC deposit insurance assessment     135       163       256       336  
      Advertising     100       73       199       160  
      Amortization of other intangible     12       12       24       24  
      Other     534       382       1,075       869  
        Total Non-Interest Expense     5,533       5,236       11,077       10,361  
    Income from Continuing Operations Before Income Taxes   $ 482     $ 183     $ 401     $ 914  
    Income Taxes     210       83       212       347  
        Net Income from Continuing Operations   $ 272     $ 100     $ 189     $ 567  
    Income from Discontinued Operations                       564  
    Income Taxes                       158  
        Net Income from Discontinued Operations   $     $     $       406  
        Net Income   $ 272     $ 100     $ 189     $ 973  
                     
          Three Months Ended       Six Months Ended  
          June 30,       June 30,  
          2025       2024       2025       2024  
          (Unaudited)       (Unaudited)  
    Per Common Share Data:                                
     Earnings per share from continuing operations – basic   $ 0.10     $ 0.04     $ 0.07     $ 0.23  
     Earnings per share from discontinued operations – basic   $     $     $     $ 0.16  
     Earnings per share, net – basic   $ 0.10     $ 0.04     $ 0.07     $ 0.39  
     Average shares outstanding – basic     2,630,585       2,600,346       2,628,786       2,525,580  
     Earnings per share from continuing operations – diluted   $ 0.10     $ 0.04     $ 0.07     $ 0.23  
     Earnings per share from discontinued operations – diluted   $     $     $     $ 0.16  
     Earnings per share, net – diluted   $ 0.10     $ 0.04     $ 0.07     $ 0.39  
     Average shares outstanding – diluted     2,630,585       2,600,346       2,628,786       2,525,580  
     Book value per share, end of period   $ 19.83     $ 19.54     $ 19.83     $ 19.54  
     Shares outstanding, end of period     2,635,866       2,629,289       2,635,866       2,629,289  
        Three Months Ended
    June 30,
        Six Months Ended
    June 30,
     
        2025     2024     2025     2024  
        (Unaudited)     (Unaudited)  
    Selected Operating Ratios:                                
     Average yield on interest-earning assets     6.45 %     6.11 %     6.38 %     6.37 %
     Average rate on interest-bearing liabilities     4.26 %     4.54 %     4.25 %     4.55 %
     Average interest rate spread     2.19 %     1.57 %     2.13 %     1.81 %
     Net interest margin     2.85 %     2.28 %     2.74 %     2.62 %
     Average interest-earning assets to average interest-bearing liabilities     118.42 %     118.78 %     116.86 %     121.59 %
     Efficiency ratio     85.75 %     97.37 %     89.65 %     80.97 %
                                     
    Asset Quality Ratios (1):                                
     Non-performing loans as a percent of total loans receivable, net     1.10 %     1.46 %     1.10 %     1.46 %
     Non-performing assets as a percent of total assets     0.89 %     1.24 %     0.89 %     1.24 %
     Allowance for credit losses as a percent of non-performing loans     106.39 %     85.12 %     106.39 %     85.12 %
     Allowance for credit losses as a percent of total loans receivable, net     1.15 %     1.23 %     1.15 %     1.23 %
     Texas Ratio (2)     9.24 %     13.25 %     9.24 %     13.25 %

    (1) Asset quality ratios are end of period ratios.
    (2) Total non-performing assets divided by tangible common equity plus the allowance for loan losses.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hawley Urges Boeing to Take Action to Remedy Latest Toxic Chemical Spill

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo)

    Today, U.S. Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) sent a letter to the Boeing Company’s President and CEO Robert Ortberg urging him to take further action following reports of a chemical leak at a Boeing facility in north St. Louis. 

    “I write concerning new reports that a Boeing facility in north St. Louis leaked up to a thousand gallons of toxic nitric acid into Coldwater Creek. As you know, nitric acid is a caustic industrial agent that can cause burns and respiratory problems, and in high enough concentrations, death. You must continue to work to remedy this latest spill and ensure it never happens again,” Senator Hawley said. 

    And this is not the first time Boeing has polluted Coldwater Creek with toxic waste.  In June 2023, a Boeing industrial wastewater treatment plant released high levels of hexavalent chromium—a carcinogen—into the creek. 

    Residents in this region have also suffered from nuclear contamination in the creek bed due to Manhattan Project-related activities. Senator Hawley fought for years to secure financial compensation for the victims of this radiation exposure provided through the passage of his RECA Act.  

    Senator Hawley continues to fight to protect the residents of this region and is calling on Boeing to answer the following questions by August 15, 2025: 

    1. Have Missourians been harmed by the July 25, 2025 toxic spill into Coldwater Creek?
    2. If so, what actions have you taken or will you take to remedy such harms?
    3. What actions have you taken or will you take to ensure that similar leakages of toxic chemicals do not occur in the future?

    Read the full letter here or below.

    July 31, 2025

    Robert K. Ortberg
    President & CEO
    The Boeing Company

    Jeff Shockey
    EVP of Government Operations, Global Public Policy, & Corporate Strategy
    The Boeing Company

    Mr. Ortberg:

    I write concerning new reports that a Boeing facility in north St. Louis leaked up to a thousand gallons of toxic nitric acid into Coldwater Creek. As you know, nitric acid is a caustic industrial agent that can cause burns and respiratory problems, and in high enough concentrations, death. You must continue to work to remedy this latest spill and ensure it never happens again.

    The spill threatens the lives and health of residents in my state. And this is not the first time. In June 2023, a Boeing industrial wastewater treatment plant released high levels of hexavalent chromium—a carcinogen—into Coldwater Creek. As you may know, residents of this region have also suffered for years from the presence of nuclear contamination in the creek bed due to Manhattan Project-related activities. That remediation is still ongoing. It is disappointing that corporate neglect is following government neglect when it comes to the safety of my constituents who live near Coldwater Creek.

    Your company has stated that, “the situation was safely resolved.” Missourians deserve to know more. Since this is the second time your company has possibly endangered residents, you must take remedial actions. Please answer the following questions by August 15, 2025:

    1. Have Missourians been harmed by the July 25, 2025 toxic spill into Coldwater Creek?
    2. If so, what actions have you taken or will you take to remedy such harms?
    3. What actions have you taken or will you take to ensure that similar leakages of toxic chemicals do not occur in the future?Thank you for your attention to this matter.

    Thank you for your attention to this matter.

    Sincerely,

    Josh Hawley
    United States Senator

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Castro, Welch, Van Hollen, Jacobs Demand U.S. Security Companies Answer for Deadly Actions in Gaza

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Joaquin Castro (20th District of Texas)

    July 31, 2025

    Bicameral lawmakers warn Safe Reach Solutions (SRS) and UG Solutions (UG) that they have put American veterans at risk of criminal and civil liability for de facto “military operations” in Gaza

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representatives Joaquin Castro (TX-20) and Sara Jacobs (CA-51) joined U.S. Senators Peter Welch (D-VT) and Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) in leading an effort to demand answers from U.S.-based security companies, Safe Reach Solutions, LLC (SRS) and UG Solutions, LLC (UG) about their activities in Gaza, which according to press reports, include using lethal force against unarmed and starving Palestinian civilians at aid distribution sites.  

    The lawmakers warned SRS and UG that the companies and personnel—many of them American military veterans hired as private security contractors—may be subject to future criminal and civil liability under U.S. laws prohibiting torture, war crimes, and forced deportation. The lawmakers also requested the preservation of all documents and communication related to the security companies’ contracts and work with the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF). 

    “We were horrified by reporting this week on your companies’ deadly security operations in Gaza. Your operations have exposed hundreds of brave American veterans to future criminal and civil liability under U.S. laws criminalizing war crimes, torture, and forced deportation,” wrote the lawmakers. “Reports and firsthand witnesses have indicated to us that your personnel—American veterans hired as private security contractors—were brought into Israel on tourist visas inappropriate for the intended purpose of their travel, sent to Gaza armed for combat, and ordered by Israeli officials to use lethal force against unarmed and starving Palestinian civilians. We have also learned that under Israeli orders, your personnel are conducting crowd control at food distribution sites by firing live rounds over the heads of civilians and using stun grenades and pepper spray—all in an active military zone under direct supervision by Israeli military officers.” 

    The lawmakers continued: “As a result, we are deeply concerned that you may have failed to alert your personnel—or investors—of the immense legal risks they face for conducting what amounts to military operations on behalf of the Israeli government on land outside of the State of Israel.” 

    Read and download the letter here and below:  

    Mr. Govoni, Mr. Reilly,  

    We were horrified by reporting this week on your companies’ deadly security operations in Gaza. Your operations have exposed hundreds of brave American veterans to future criminal and civil liability under U.S. laws criminalizing war crimes, torture, and forced deportation.  

    Reports and firsthand witnesses have indicated to us that your personnel —American veterans hired as private security contractors—were brought into Israel on tourist visas inappropriate for the intended purpose of their travel, sent to Gaza armed for combat, and ordered by Israeli officials to use lethal force against unarmed and starving Palestinian civilians. We have also learned that under Israeli orders, your personnel are conducting crowd control at food distribution sites by firing live rounds over the heads of civilians and using stun grenades and pepper spray—all in an active military zone under direct supervision by Israeli military officers.  

    As a result, we are deeply concerned that you may have failed to alert your personnel —or investors—of the immense legal risks they face for conducting what amounts to military operations on behalf of the Israeli government on land outside of the State of Israel.   

    Even before the latest revelations, press had reported on Israeli military actions that include the wanton destruction of civilian homes, the use of human shields, rules of engagement resulting in disproportionate civilian casualties, and blockage of medicine and food. More than 50,000 children have already been killed or injured in Gaza, and as we write, infant boys and girls are starving to death. Prime Minister Netanyahu, in response to a question concerning remaining legitimate targets to strike, is reported to have said “I don’t care about the targets” and ordered military officials to “destroy the homes, bomb everything in Gaza. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich is reported to have said, “Gaza will be totally destroyed… They will be totally despairing… and will be looking for relocation to begin a new life in other places.” As a result of these actions, U.S. allies have already cut off the supply of offensive weapons to Israel. 

    We, therefore, ask that you urgently respond to the following questions: 

    1. What are the Rules of Engagement currently in effect for your staff in Gaza and what is the nature of their command-and-control relationship with Israeli military officers and government officials? 
    1. Did you inform your investors and staff prior to their departure from the United States that they are subject to U.S. criminal law prohibiting torture, war crimes, and forced deportation, including under the War Crimes Act? And further, that they could be held legally responsible for crimes by Israeli forces when those actions were enabled or facilitated by your operations? 
    1. Did you inform prospective staff and investors that they could face civil suits upon return to the United States under the Torture Prevention Act by Americans and the families of Americans harmed in Gaza? 
    1. Did you inform your staff that the International Criminal Court and third states may exercise jurisdiction over war crimes in Gaza and that they could consider your American staff as combatants for purposes of liability, potentially limiting future freedom of travel to other countries?  
    1. How is your organization documenting activities in Gaza and what happens to that data? We request that you preserve all documents and communications related to your contracts and work with the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation.  

    We respectfully request a response withing two weeks.  

    Sincerely, 

     CC: 

    • Charles J. Africano (“Chuck”/“Joe”), Safe Reach Solutions (SRS) 
    • Kevin Sullivan, UG Solutions 
    • Jennifer C, UG Solutions 
    • Lou Rassey, Chief Executive Officer, McNally Capital, Chicago IL 
    • Ward McNally, Founder, Co-CEO, and Managing Partner, McNally Capital, Chicago IL 
    • Brian Grogan, Chief Financial Officer & Chief Compliance Officer, McNally Capital, Chicago IL 
    • Ravi Shah, Partner, McNally Capital, Chicago IL 
    • Joel Revill, Chief Executive Officer, Two Ocean Trust, Jackson Hole WY  
    • Albert Forkner, Chief Risk and Compliance Officer, Two Ocean Trust, Jackson Hole WY 
    • Dustin Sventy, Chief Investment Officer, Two Ocean Trust, Jackson Hole WY  

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-Evening Report: A Hawaiian epic made in NZ: why Jason Momoa’s Chief of War wasn’t filmed in its star’s homeland

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Duncan Caillard, Postdoctoral Research Fellow, School of Communication Studies, Auckland University of Technology

    Jason Momoa’s historical epic Chief of War, launching August 1 on Apple TV+, is a triumph of Hawaiians telling their own stories – despite the fact their film and TV production industry now struggles to be viable.

    The series stars Momoa (Aquaman, Game of Thrones) as Kaʻaina, an ali’i (chief) who fights for – and later rises against – King Kamehameha I during the bloody reunification of Hawaii.

    Already receiving advance praise, the nine-episode first season co-stars New Zealand actors Temeura Morrison, Cliff Curtis and Luciane Buchanan, alongside Hawaiian actors Kaina Makua, Brandon Finn and Moses Goods.

    A passion project for Momoa, the Hawaiian star co-created the series with writer Thomas Pa’a Sibbett after years in development. With a reported budget of US$340 million, it is one of the most expensive television series ever produced.

    It is also a milestone in Kānaka Maoli (Native Hawaiian) representation onscreen. Controversially, however, the production only spent a month in Hawaiʻi, and was mostly shot in New Zealand with non-Hawaiian crews.

    Momoa has even expressed an interest in New Zealand citizenship, but the choice of location is more a reflection of the troubled state of the film industry in Hawaiʻi. On the other hand, it is a measure of the success of the New Zealand screen industry, with potential lessons for other countries in the Pacific.

    Ea o Moʻolelo – story sovereignty

    Set at the turn of the 19th century, Chief of War tells the moʻolelo (story, history) of King Kamehameha I’s conquest of the archipelago.

    Hawaiʻi was historically governed by aliʻi nui (high chiefs), and each island was ruled independently. Motivated by the threat of European colonisation and empowered by Western weaponry, Kamehameha established the Hawaiian Kingdom, culminating in full unification in 1810.

    The series is an important example of what authors Dean Hamer and Kumu Hinaleimoana Wong-Kalu have called “Ea o Moʻolelo”, or story sovereignty, which emphasises Indigenous peoples’ right to control their own narrative by respecting the “the inalienable right of a story to its own unique contents, style and purpose”.

    Chief of War is also the biggest Hawaiian television series ever produced. Although Hawaiʻi remains a popular setting onscreen, these productions have rarely involved Hawaiians in key decision-making roles.

    Sea of troubles

    The series hits screens at a time of major disruption in Hollywood, with streaming services upending established business models.

    “Linear” network television faces declining viewership and advertising revenue. Movie studios struggle to draw audiences to theatres. The consequences for workers in the the industry have been severe, as the 2023 writers strike showed.

    Those changes have had a catastrophic impact on the Hawaiʻi film industry, too.

    Long a popular location – Hawaii Five-O (1968-1980, 2010-2020), Magnum P.I. (1980-1988, 2018-2024) and Lost (2004-2010) were all shot on location in Hawaiʻi – it is an expensive place to film.

    Actors, crew and production equipment often have to be flown in from the continental United States, and producers compete with tourism for costly accommodation.

    Kaina Makua as King Kamehameha and New Zealand actor Luciane Buchanan as Ka’ahumanu in Chief of War.
    Apple TV+

    An industry in transition

    These are not uncommon problems in distant locations, and many governments try to attract screen productions through tax incentives and rebates on portions of the production costs.

    New Zealand, for example, offers a 20-25% rebate for international productions and 40% for local productions. Hawaiʻi offers a 22-27% rebate.

    But this is less than other US states offer, such as Georgia (30%), Louisiana (40%) and New Mexico (40%). Hawaiʻi also has an annual cap of US$50 million on rebates.

    To make things even harder, Hawaiʻi offers only limited support for Indigenous filmmakers. Governments in Australia and New Zealand provide targeted funding and support for Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander and Māori filmmakers.

    By contrast, the Hawaiʻi Film Commission doesn’t provide direct grants to local filmmakers or producers (Indigenous or otherwise). Small amounts of government funding have been administered through the Public Broadcasting Service, but this is now in jeopardy after US President Donald Trump recently cut federal funding.

    The Hawaiʻi screen industry faces a perfect storm. For the first time since 2004, film and TV production has ground to a halt. Many workers now doubt the long-term sustainability of their careers.

    Lessons from Aotearoa NZ

    While there are lessons Hawaiʻi legislators and industry leaders could learn from New Zealand’s example, there should also be a measure of caution.

    The Hawaiʻi tax credit system is out of date. But despite industry lobbying, legislation to update it failed to reach the floor of the legislature earlier this year. New tax settings would help make local production viable again.

    Secondly, decades of investment in Māori cinema have seen it become diverse, engaging and creatively accomplished. Hawaiʻi could benefit from greater direct investment in Hawaiian storytelling, respecting its cultural value even if it doesn’t turn a commercial profit.

    On the other hand, New Zealand has a favourable currency exchange rate with the US which can’t be replicated in Hawaiʻi. And New Zealand film production workers have seen their rights to unionise watered down compared to their American peers.

    But if Hawaiʻi can get its settings right, a possible second season of Chief of War may yet be filmed there, which could mark a genuine rejuvenation of its own film industry.

    Duncan Caillard 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. A Hawaiian epic made in NZ: why Jason Momoa’s Chief of War wasn’t filmed in its star’s homeland – https://theconversation.com/a-hawaiian-epic-made-in-nz-why-jason-momoas-chief-of-war-wasnt-filmed-in-its-stars-homeland-261742

    MIL OSI AnalysisEveningReport.nz

  • MIL-Evening Report: Shark tales, a sinking city and a breathless cop thriller: what to watch in August

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Alexa Scarlata, Lecturer, Digital Communication, RMIT University

    As the cool nights continue, it’s the perfect time to cozy up with a new batch of captivating films and series.

    This month’s streaming highlights bring a little bit of everything, from gripping true crime, to thought-provoking political drama, and a nostalgic music documentary on the life and times of piano man Billy Joel.

    So grab a blanket (and maybe a snack or two). Your next binge-watch awaits.

    One Night in Idaho: The College Murders

    Prime Video

    I remember seeing the gruesome 2022 murder of four college students in Moscow, Idaho, splashed all over the news in Australia. The world seemed momentarily gripped by the brutality of the killings, which happened in off-campus housing, while two other roommates slept downstairs.

    The ensuing investigation was given significantly less attention, though. So when Prime Video dropped this four-episode limited series, well, that was my weekend sorted.

    The docuseries features exclusive interviews with the friends and families of the victims, so it doesn’t feel gratuitous. It respectfully recounts the tragedy and explores its continued impact, while honouring the victims. It also builds the kind of tension and disquiet that is so beloved in the true crime genre, but not in a way that makes you feel gross watching it.

    Notably, legal proceedings for the case were still underway when One Night in Idaho was released. And the series made it clear there was more to the story which couldn’t be shared with, or by, the producers.

    However, the trial has since concluded, with more information now available for anyone wanting to dive deeper into the case. This makes the series an absorbing watch.

    – Alexa Scarlata

    The Night of the Hunter

    Various platforms

    In 1955, director Charles Laughton crafted The Night of the Hunter: one of the darkest, strangest fairy tales ever to come out of Hollywood.

    Shortly before Ben Harper is hanged for robbing a bank and killing two men, he hides the $10,000 loot in the toy doll of his young daughter Pearl. Only Pearl and her brother John know the secret – until the deranged serial killer-priest Harry Powell hears about the money and sets out to recover it.

    Harry marries Willa, Harper’s widow, and then, after killing her, pursues John and Pearl relentlessly across West Virginia.

    Robert Mitchum’s depiction of pure evil is one of cinema’s most vivid creations, with LOVE and HATE tattooed on the fingers of each hand.

    The film did not align with the mainstream tastes of the era. Audiences and reviewers didn’t know what to make of this abnormal mix of fairy tale logic, nightmarish imagery and biblical allegory.

    Successive generations of critics and filmmakers have caught on to its brilliance. Critic Roger Ebert said it was “one of the greatest of all American films”. In 2008, French film magazine Cahiers du cinéma voted it as the second-best film of all time, behind only Citizen Kane (1941).

    The Night of the Hunter remains unsettlingly modern, 70 years on.

    Ben McCann




    Read more:
    After 70 years, twisted gothic thriller The Night of the Hunter remains as disturbing and beguiling as ever


    Families Like Ours

    SBS On Demand

    The highest point in Denmark, Mollehoj, is 171 metres above sea level, so it is plausible to imagine the whole country being overrun by water due to rising sea levels, leading to mass evacuation. This is the basic premise of the Danish series Families Like Ours.

    The cleverness of this premise is that it turns comfortable middle-class Danes into refugees, facing hostility, poverty and violence as they seek to resettle. Given Denmark’s hard line on refugees, this makes the series politically powerful, equally so for us in Australia.

    The central figure is a young woman, Laura (Amaryllis August), who creates disaster for her family through what she believes is an act of huge empathy. The same is true of Henrik (Magnus Millang), who shoots an innocent man in what he believes is an act of self-defence.

    Families Like Ours is not a comfortable series to watch, but it manages to raise central issues of our time, without ever seeming didactic or preachy. It succeeds in combining the personal and the political in a six-part show that is powerful – and leaves enough loose ends for a potential second season.

    – Dennis Altman

    The Man from Hong Kong

    Various platforms

    A cinematic firecracker of a film exploded onto international screens 50 years ago, blending martial arts mayhem, Bond-esque set pieces, casual racism – and a distinctly Australian swagger.

    From its audacious visual style; to its complex, life-threatening stunts; to its pioneering status as an international co-production, Brian Trenchard-Smith’s The Man from Hong Kong has solidified its place as a cult classic.

    A Sydney-based crime lord’s activities come under the scrutiny of a determined Hong Kong detective, Inspector Fang Sing Leng. A fiery East-meets-West martial arts showdown explodes across the Australian landscape, pushing both sides to their limits.

    The movie is a playful pastiche that confidently combines martial arts action, police procedurals, spy thrillers, and Westerns, all filtered through a distinctly Australian “crash-zoom” lens.

    The film was an influence to Quentin Tarantino and paved the way for films such as Mad Max (1979), particularly in what Trenchard-Smith and his partner in film, stunt legend Grant Page, might call its “cunning stunts”.

    The elaborate car chases and explosive stunt setups in The Man from Hong Kong served as prototypes for iconic sequences that would inspire the Mad Max films, among others, a testament to a bygone era of practical effects and thrill seeking audacity.

    The Man from Hong Kong remains an exhilarating piece of pure cinema, despite its relatively small budget. It’s an exemplar (and occasional cautionary tale) for filmmakers in terms of international co-production, its cunning stunts, and genre blending.

    – Gregory Ferris




    Read more:
    The Man from Hong Kong at 50: how the first ever Australian–Hong Kong co-production became a cult classic


    Dept Q

    Netflix

    Based on the book series by Jussi Adler-Olsen, Dept Q is a gripping television adaptation for fans of Nordic noir and British crime drama.

    In Edinburgh, Scotland, Detective Chief Inspector Carl Morck (Matthew Goode) has returned to work after a shooting which left him physically and psychologically wounded, his colleague partially paralysed, and another colleague dead.

    With the dregs of a budget assigned to cold cases, and a team of misfit officers, Morck sets out to solve the four-year-old case of missing Crown prosecutor, Merritt Lingard (Chloe Pirrie).

    We follow Merritt’s story across various stages of her life. We see her as a teenager in the lead-up to a devastating crime that left her brother with a traumatic brain injury, as well as later in life, when she loses a major case involving a wealthy man on trial for his wife’s death.

    Shortly after the devastating verdict, Merritt went missing on a ferry ride to her childhood home, on the fictionalised island of Mhòr. Returning to the present, we see she has been held captive inside a hyperbaric chamber for the past four years.

    The pressure under which Merritt is kept makes Morck’s investigation high stakes from the start, while the movement between past and present highlights the impacts of past traumatic events on both characters.

    Dept Q is a fast-paced, breathless thriller which will leave viewers craving its rumoured second season.

    – Jessica Gildersleeve

    Billy Joel: And So It Goes

    HBO Max

    Produced by Tom Hanks, this two-part documentary about singer/songwriter Billy Joel covers more than five decades of music. Created very much from Joel’s perspective, who is also the main narrator, the archival content is fascinating, and the music difficult to deny.

    Discussion of Joel’s early suicide attempts are a shocking and terrible reminder of how different things might have been. From here, the role of the women in his life – his wives, daughters, and mother (“his champion”) – becomes vital. Beyond the headlines (particularly with his second wife Christie Brinkley), are partners who were muses, business supporters and emotional support pillars – some of whom gave Joel ultimatums when the time came to battle his alcohol addiction.

    Brinkley, as well as Joel’s first wife, Elizabeth Weber, are particularly moving interviewees. They would wait at home, or stand nervously backstage as Joel “went to work” to earn, repair and rebuild against the odds. No spoilers, but let’s just say Joel ended up in trouble more than once.

    On the other hand, the men in Joel’s life are often distant: Jewish grandparents who escaped Nazi Germany; a father who left when Joel was small; a half-brother discovered later in life. These losses are never really healed.

    Billy Joel: And So It Goes is a five-hour epic, a story of survival and ultimately, of peace. It is, of course, also a reminder of an incredible catalogue of music – joyful, ordinary and wonderful – and the extraordinary life behind it.

    – Liz Giuffre

    If you or someone you know needs help, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14

    Gardening Australia, season 36

    ABC iView

    Since it first aired in 1990, Gardening Australia has offered tips and inspiration from every state and territory on a weekly basis. A perennial favourite, the show seems to possess perpetual appeal for world-weary viewers open to slowing down by growing plants.

    The no-nonsense host Peter Cundall helmed the series until 2008 (Cundall died in 2021 at the age of 94). The honour of “King of Compost” now rests with the gregarious Costa Georgiadis, and a wider cast of presenters that has expanded to be more diverse and engaging. One stalwart from the start, Jane Edmanson, is still flourishing in season 36: her episode 4 segment titled “Fronds with Benefits” certainly caught my eye.

    Topics covered this season range from small-space innovation and passion projects, to Indigenous knowledge and bush foods, through to permaculture and climate change. Episodes 6 and 20 – specials on native plants and NAIDOC Week, respectively – are both worth a watch.

    While the series can distance renters, and might not be edgy enough for younger audiences, it has managed to stake out ground in the digital realm – with a blooming online presence for budding green thumbs.

    One of the longest-running Australian shows still on air, it doesn’t look as though Gardening Australia will be pulling up roots anytime soon.

    – Phoebe Hart

    The Buccaneers, season two

    Apple TV

    Loosen your corsets, The Buccaneers is back for a second season of feminist sisterhood and fabulous gowns.

    Adapted from Edith Wharton’s unfinished final novel, the series follows a group of outspoken young American women navigating the marriage market in 1870s Victorian England. Gleefully anachronistic with feisty girl power speeches and a contemporary pop music soundtrack, The Buccaneers is equal parts Bridgerton and Gossip Girl (complete with a character played by Leighton Meester).

    Season two picks up where the first left off, with Jinny (Imogen Waterhouse) and Guy (Matthew Broome) fleeing the country to escape Jinny’s violent husband Lord James Seadown (Barney Fishwick).

    Meanwhile, sister Nan (Kristine Froseth) is busy back home leveraging her position as Duchess of Tintagel to help facilitate Jinny’s return – a campaign that includes wearing a showstopping red gown to a black and white ball. In keeping with the series’ M.O., this might be narrative nonsense, but it looks exquisite.

    While trysts and love triangles continue to provide escapist entertainment, Jinny’s abusive marriage dominates later episodes. If season one sought to expose the isolation and entrapment Jinny endured in her marriage, season two foregrounds her resistance in the face of it, intent on highlighting how perpetrators of violence manipulate legal and medical systems to tighten the noose around victims’ necks.

    Season two’s veering between frothy excess and melodrama arguably results in some tonal patchiness. Nonetheless, it should be commended for its careful treatment of the corrosive impacts and dangers of coercive control. This – more than the downloadable soundtrack and dazzling costumes – makes it good viewing.

    – Rachel Williamson

    Dangerous Animals

    Prime Video

    Dangerous Animals is perhaps the most original and entertaining shark horror film we have seen since Jaws – incorporating traditional elements of the shark thriller genre, while challenging them at the same time.

    The film starts with the primal fear of being eaten alive by monstrous sharks, with gruesome shock-thrill scenes of tourists being torn apart in a blood red ocean.

    But later, the narrative reminds us it is the boat captain, not the great white, who is the real sadistic killer. Predictably, we see a young bikini-clad woman who gets horribly dismembered (just like the first unforgettable victim in Jaws).

    However, it is also a fearless bikini-clad woman, Zephyr (Hassie Harrison) who turns the tables on the boat captain, outwits him, rescues her boyfriend and even makes friends with the shark.

    Dangerous Animals includes some interesting subtext and commentary, such as when it compares women to fish – creatures hunted for sport – and when it highlights the inherent cruelty of fishing, and the hook that impales the prey.

    The film delivers sophisticated special effects and gruesome eco-horror entertainment. It is a fun, self-aware and postmodern watch that will leave you thinking.

    The Australian influence is delightfully evident in the irreverent humour. And for anyone who has been to the Gold Coast, there is much pleasure in seeing the film play out across its iconic locations.

    This film will trigger your childhood fear of Jaws – but with a twist.

    – Susan Hopkins

    Shark Whisperer

    Netflix

    In Shark Whisperer, the great white shark gets an image makeover – from Jaws villain to misunderstood friend and admirer.

    However the star of the documentary is not so much the shark, but the model and marine conservationist Ocean Ramsey (yes, that’s her real name).

    The film centres on Ramsey’s self-growth journey, with the shark co-starring as a quasi-spiritual medium for finding meaning and purpose (not to mention celebrity status).

    Whisperer and the Ocean Ramsey website tap into the collective fascination with dangerous sharks fuelled by popular culture. Many online images show Ramsey in a bikini or touching sharks – she’s small, and vulnerable in the face of great whites. As with forms of celebrity humanitarianism, what I have dubbed “sexy conservationism” leaves itself open to criticism about its methods – even if its intentions are good.

    Globally at least 80 million sharks are killed every year. Thanks in part to the hashtag activism of Ocean Ramsey and her millions of fans and followers, Hawaii was the first state in the United States to outlaw shark fishing.

    So, Ramsey may be right to argue her ends justify the means.

    – Susan Hopkins




    Read more:
    Netflix’s Shark Whisperer wants us to think ‘sexy conservation’ is the way to save sharks – does it have a point?


    The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    ref. Shark tales, a sinking city and a breathless cop thriller: what to watch in August – https://theconversation.com/shark-tales-a-sinking-city-and-a-breathless-cop-thriller-what-to-watch-in-august-261952

    MIL OSI AnalysisEveningReport.nz

  • MIL-Evening Report: Colombia is producing more cocaine than ever – and more is reaching Australian shores

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Cesar Alvarez, Lecturer in Terrorism and Security Studies, Charles Sturt University

    Members of the Colombian anti-narcotics police test cocaine after a drug bust. RAUL ARBOLEDA/AFP via Getty Images

    Imagine an area larger than the Australian Capital Territory, nearly twice the size of London and four times that of New York City covered in coca plantations.

    That’s the scale of Colombia’s coca cultivation, according to an estimate from the United Nations Office of Drugs and Crime (UNODC).

    Colombia produces an estimated 2,664 metric tonnes of cocaine annually. That is enough to fill 20 Boeing 747 cargo planes per year.

    Not even during the darkest days of Pablo Escobar’s infamous empire did Colombia cultivate as much coca or produce as much cocaine as it does today.

    In the past year alone, coca crops expanded by 10% and production capacity soared more than 50%.

    So how did it come to this?

    A worrying mix

    Colombia did not arrive at this point overnight, nor by chance. A complex mix of radical and failed policy shifts, scientific innovation and global demand, among other factors, has shaped this trajectory.

    For example, in 2015, Colombia’s Constitutional Court suspended aerial fumigation and banned the use of glyphosate. Despite the herbicide’s effectiveness in killing coca plants, the court cited concerns over its health risks and environmental impact.

    Aerial spraying had allowed the government to reduce the risk that manual eradication brigades were exposed to over large areas.

    In 2016, then-president Juan Manuel Santos introduced a scheme to substitute coca with non-illicit plants. Incentives were offered to farmers. However, it ended up encouraging many peasants who had never grown coca before to begin cultivating it, simply to qualify for the new subsidies.

    It is no surprise that during Santos’ second term (2014–18), Colombia’s coca crops nearly doubled, from 96,000 hectares to more than 170,000.

    This was all in an effort to secure a peace deal with the narco-terrorist group Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC).

    More recently, in 2022, President Gustavo Petro announced his Paz Total (Total Peace) policy. This was designed to bring trafficking organisations – including Colombia’s second largest narco-terrorist group, the National Liberation Army (ELN) – to the negotiation table.

    Ironically, and paradoxically, Colombia is now producing more drugs than ever. It is also experiencing a sharp increase in violence by non-state armed groups.

    The impact on Australia

    What happens in Colombia matters to Australia because criminal innovation is fuelling greater cocaine volumes and higher purity. This means more is flowing towards Australian shores.

    Colombia’s coca production is being reshaped by enhanced cultivation techniques, more secure and autonomous smuggling methods, and an increasingly fragmented criminal landscape.

    Production is now more efficient and profitable than ever. Growers are planting improved coca leaf varieties and achieve more harvest cycles per year with higher alkaloid yields per kilo.

    Smuggling methods have also evolved.

    Semi-submersibles or narco-submarines are increasing in storage capacity. Recent seizures show manned vessels with four to five tonnes of capacity are now the rule rather than the exception.

    Some networks are also transitioning from manned to unmanned operations.

    Also, the growing presence and operational influence of Mexican cartels in Colombia has amplified the scope and scale of alliances between transnational organised crime groups across Europe, Asia and Oceania. International police investigations are even more complex.

    Like much of the world, there is a growing demand for and increasing use of cocaine in Australia.

    Despite record-high seizure numbers and total volumes intercepted, Australia is still among the most attractive destination markets for drug trafficking organisations because of the high price users pay for the drugs.

    Unless something radically changes in Colombia, Australia continues to face growing risks from maritime trafficking routes. There is also an increased threat of being used as a transit and money laundering hub in the global drug economy.

    Some possible solutions

    Even if conditions in Colombia were to change swiftly and drastically, supply-focused strategies alone are insufficient to mitigate the risks facing Australia.

    After all, Colombia cannot simply fumigate its way out of this cocaine crisis, just as Australia cannot arrest its way out of it.

    However, continued collaboration between the Australian Federal Police and the National Police of Colombia remains essential to keep drugs at bay.

    The appointment of Colombia’s first police attaché to Australia will be a welcome and meaningful step forward. (While not yet formally announced, the Colombian embassy in Australia has informed me and several other experts the country is appointing the attaché.)

    Both countries must deepen this relationship and collectively engage meaningfully and frequently to help solve the problem.

    Cesar Alvarez 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. Colombia is producing more cocaine than ever – and more is reaching Australian shores – https://theconversation.com/colombia-is-producing-more-cocaine-than-ever-and-more-is-reaching-australian-shores-261745

    MIL OSI AnalysisEveningReport.nz

  • MIL-Evening Report: Industrial-scale deepfake abuse caused a crisis in South Korean schools. Here’s how Australia can avoid the same fate

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Joel Scanlan, Senior Lecturer in Health Information Management, University of Tasmania

    South Korea’s deepfake crisis triggered a wave of protests in 2024. Anthony WALLACE / AFP

    Australian schools are seeing a growing number of incidents in which students have created deepfake sexualised imagery of their classmates. The eSafety Commissioner has urged schools to monitor the situation.

    In 2024, the problem of deepfakes became a crisis in South Korea: more than 500 schools and universities were targeted in a coordinated wave of deepfake sexual abuse.

    AI-generated sexualised images of students — mostly girls — were circulated in encrypted Telegram groups. The perpetrators were often classmates of the victims.

    A new report from global child-protection group ECPAT with funding from the UK-based Churchill Fellowship takes a close look at what happened in Korea, so other countries can understand and avoid similar crises. Here’s what Australia can learn.

    A glimpse into our future?

    The events in South Korea were not just about deepfake technology. They were about how the technology was used.

    Perpetrators created groups on the Telegram messaging platform to identify mutual acquaintances in local schools or universities. They then formed “Humiliation Rooms” to gather victims’ photos and personal information so they could create deepfake sexual images.

    Rooms for more than 500 schools and universities have been identified, often with thousands of members. The rooms were filled with deepfake imagery, created from photos on social media and the school yearbook.

    Bots within the app allowed users to generate AI nudes in seconds. One such bot had more than 220,000 subscribers. The bot gave users two deepfake images for free, with additional images available for the equivalent of one Australian dollar.

    Telegram screenshots show an automated deepfake bot that charges users to produce images.
    Telegram

    This wasn’t the dark web. It was happening on a mainstream platform, used by millions.

    And it wasn’t just adult predators. More than 80% of those arrested were teenagers. Many were described as “normal boys” by their teachers — students who had never shown signs of violent behaviour before.

    The abuse was gamified. Users earned rewards for inviting friends, sharing images, and escalating the harm. It was social, yet anonymous.

    Could this happen in Australia?

    We have already seen smaller, less organised deepfake incidents in Australian schools. However, the huge scale and ease of use of the Korean abuse system should be cause for alarm.

    The Australian Centre to Counter Child Exploitation recorded 58,503 reports of pictures and videos of online child abuse in the 2023–24 financial year. This is an average of 160 reports per day (4,875 reports a month), a 45% increase from the previous year.

    This increase is likely to continue. In response to these risks, the Australian government, through the eSafety Commissioner, is applying the existing Basic Online Safety Expectations to generative AI services. This creates a clear expectation these services must work proactively to prevent the creation of harmful deepfake content.

    Internationally, the European Union’s AI Act has set a precedent for regulating high-risk AI applications, including those that affect children. In the United States, the proposed Take It Down Act aims to criminalise the publication of non-consensual intimate images, including AI-generated deepfakes.

    These are a start, but a lot more work remains to be done to provide a safe online environment for young people. The Korean experience shows how easily things can escalate when these tools are used at scale, especially in peer-to-peer abuse among adolescents.

    5 lessons from Korea

    The South Korean crisis holds several lessons for Australia.

    1. Prevention must start early. Korea’s crisis involved children as young as 12 (and even younger in some primary schools targeted). We need comprehensive digital ethics and consent education in primary schools, not just in high schools.

    2. Law enforcement needs AI tools of their own to keep up. Just as offenders are using AI to scale up abuse, police must be equipped with AI to detect and investigate it. This may include facial recognition, content detection, and automated triage systems, all governed by strict privacy protocols.

    3. Platforms must also be held accountable. Telegram only began cooperating with South Korean authorities after immense public pressure. Australia must enforce safety-by-design principles and ensure encrypted platforms are not safe havens for abuse.

    4. Support services must be scaled up. Korea’s crisis caused trauma for entire communities. Victims often had to continuing going to school with perpetrators in the same classrooms. Australia must invest in trauma-informed support systems that can respond to both individual and collective harm.

    5. We must listen to victims and survivors. Policy must be shaped by those who have experienced digital abuse. Their insights are crucial to designing effective and compassionate responses.

    The Korean crisis didn’t happen overnight. The warning signs were there: in 2023 Korea produced more than half the world’s celebrity deepfakes). This has been accompanied by rising misogyny online and the proliferation of AI tools. But they were ignored until it was too late. Australia mustn’t make the same mistake.

    Joel Scanlan 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. Industrial-scale deepfake abuse caused a crisis in South Korean schools. Here’s how Australia can avoid the same fate – https://theconversation.com/industrial-scale-deepfake-abuse-caused-a-crisis-in-south-korean-schools-heres-how-australia-can-avoid-the-same-fate-262322

    MIL OSI AnalysisEveningReport.nz

  • MIL-OSI Russia: K. Kaladze nominated as candidate for Tbilisi mayor by ruling Georgian Dream party

    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

    Tbilisi, July 31 (Xinhua) — Georgia’s ruling Georgian Dream party has officially nominated Kakha Kaladze as the mayor of Tbilisi in the upcoming local elections. The official presentation of the candidate took place in the capital’s Mtatsminda Park on Thursday.

    “Running for the post of Tbilisi mayor for the third time in a row is a huge responsibility. For me, this is another great opportunity to serve our beautiful Tbilisi and the people of Tbilisi. I want to thank our political team for the trust they have shown me,” said K. Kaladze.

    K. Kaladze has held this post since 2017. Since 2013, he has also been the Secretary General of the Georgian Dream party. From 2012 to 2017, he held the posts of Minister of Energy and Vice Prime Minister of Georgia. –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 Russia: NPC Standing Committee Chairman Calls for High-Level Development of Innovative Strategic Partnership with Switzerland

    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

    GENEVA, July 31 (Xinhua) — Zhao Leji, chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress of China, called for jointly promoting the high-level development of the China-Switzerland innovative strategic partnership. He made the call during an official goodwill visit to Switzerland from July 28 to 31.

    As Zhao Leji noted during talks with Maja Riniker, President of the National Council of the Federal Assembly (lower house of parliament) of Switzerland, and Andrea Caroni, President of the Council of States of the Federal Assembly (upper house of parliament) of Switzerland, Switzerland became one of the first Western countries to establish diplomatic relations with the People’s Republic of China.

    According to the NPC Standing Committee chairman, in the 75 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations, the two countries have jointly nurtured a spirit of cooperation characterized by “equality, innovation and win-win”, creating a model of cooperation between countries with different social systems, stages of development and territorial sizes.

    Zhao Leji pointed out that China is willing to work with Switzerland to implement the important agreements reached by the leaders of the two countries and promote the high-level development of the China-Swiss innovative strategic partnership.

    Noting that mutual respect and mutual trust are important foundations for the long-term and sustainable development of bilateral relations, he said China hopes to maintain the positive momentum of high-level exchanges with Switzerland and welcomes more Swiss leaders and parliamentarians to visit the country so that they can experience the real, multifaceted and diverse China.

    Respecting each other’s core interests and major concerns is a valuable experience and the right path for China-Switzerland relations, Zhao Leji stressed, adding that the Chinese side highly values Switzerland’s commitment to expanding cooperation with China and hopes to strengthen exchanges and cooperation so as to accumulate more positive energy for the development of bilateral relations.

    The Chairman of the NPC Standing Committee pointed out that Switzerland was the first country in continental Europe to sign a free trade agreement with China, and noted the rapid development of bilateral economic and trade cooperation since the document came into effect. He expressed hope for joint advancement of negotiations on updating the free trade agreement and high-quality financial cooperation, and welcomed the expansion of Swiss capital investment in China.

    Zhao Leji called for expanding cooperation in the arts, sports, education and at the local level to consolidate the foundation of public and popular support for China-Swiss friendship.

    He expressed the hope that China and Switzerland, as two important peace-loving and multilateralist forces, will continue to strengthen coordination in multilateral forums, jointly oppose unilateralism and protectionism, safeguard international trade rules and the world economic order, and promote fairer and more reasonable global governance.

    Zhao Leji noted that the NPC and the Swiss Federal Assembly have maintained long-standing friendly ties and made positive contributions to the development of China-Swiss relations and practical cooperation.

    As the chairman of the NPC Standing Committee noted, the two sides should continue to enhance friendly exchanges between their legislative organs, carry out mutual exchanges of experience in lawmaking and supervision, promptly formulate, revise and approve legal documents that promote bilateral cooperation, and strengthen communication and cooperation within multilateral mechanisms such as the Inter-Parliamentary Union.

    M. Riniker, for her part, pointed out that this year marks the 75th anniversary of the establishment of bilateral diplomatic relations between the two countries. Based on mutual respect, openness and goodwill, Swiss-Chinese relations are developing steadily and yielding fruitful results, she emphasized.

    According to M. Riniker, the National Council intends to strengthen cooperation with the NPC to play an active role in promoting the renewal of the free trade agreement between the two countries and promoting their sustainable development.

    A. Caroni noted that both countries firmly adhere to the goals and principles of the UN Charter and resolutely defend multilateralism.

    Strengthening cooperation with China is of strategic importance for Switzerland, stressed A. Caroni, adding that the Council of States hopes to further increase exchanges and dialogue with the Chinese side to improve mutual understanding and promote joint development. –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 Canada: Updating Flood Risk Planning for Safe and Strong Community Development

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on July 31, 2025

    Saskatchewan Adopting 1:200-Year Flood Elevation                                                         

    Ensuring municipalities can plan for the growth of their communities, the Ministry of Government Relations is aligning the regulations of The Planning and Development Act, 2007, to the standard of a one-in-200-year flood event. 

    This change will bring the province into alignment with the Federal Disaster Financial Assistance Arrangements program. A one-in-200-year flood risk is a 0.5 per cent chance of flooding occurring in a given year.  

    “Keeping our communities safe while supporting development is key to a growing province,” Government Relations Minister Eric Schmalz said. “This move confirms our commitment to growing communities, making room for economic development opportunities in this province. Our government will continue to examine how we can harmonize standards across Canada, including for community planning and building.”

    “The Water Security Agency (WSA) is committed to helping municipalities build and grow in a sustainable way,” Minister Responsible for the WSA Daryl Harrison said. “WSA has been engaging with communities across Saskatchewan about flood mapping and helping them balance development and flood mapping.” 

    “The RM of Corman Park welcomes the Government of Saskatchewan’s move to adopt the one-in-200-year flood elevation standard,” R.M. of Corman Park Reeve Joe Hargrave said. “This legislative change not only prioritizes public safety but also strengthens our ability to plan and build with confidence in a changing climate within the flood fringe areas. We appreciate the province’s effort to align with federal guidelines, and we look forward to further guidance and potential provincial support to help municipalities like ours adapt zoning bylaws and building policies in a way that balances safety and local development needs. These new guidelines will help form our upcoming discussions with valley residents who live within the flood plain.” 

    “Ensuring alignment between provincial and municipal efforts is key to maximizing the growth of the province, especially when it comes to critical information tied to safety and real estate development,” Saskatchewan Realtors Association President and CEO Chris Guérette said. “We are pleased to see this kind of alignment in regard to flood protection so property owners, neighbourhoods and municipalities can work together to maximize their growth potential.”

    For communities interested in more information and details on this change, visit: saskatchewan.ca.

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News

  • MIL-OSI Canada: More Than $53 Million for Southwest and Area Highway Improvements Move Export Based Economy

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on July 31, 2025

    Today, the Government of Saskatchewan provided an update about more than $53 million of highway investments this year in the southwest and area that keep Saskatchewan’s export-based economy moving.

    “These projects are a snapshot of our provincial government’s ongoing commitment and investment to maintain, improve and upgrade our highways,” Education Minister and Swift Current MLA Everett Hindley said on behalf of Highways Minister David Marit. “Our road network is a key link in getting Saskatchewan goods and products throughout the province, across Canada and around the world to support our economy to maintain our quality of life. We appreciate the patience and understanding of all motorists during road construction. Drivers are reminded to be cautious, alert and obey all signage and flag persons when approaching work zones as highway crews and contractors do this important work. We want everyone to get home safely.”

    Provincial highway work includes paving, culvert replacements, grading and various maintenance.

    “The Swift Current and District Chamber of Commerce sincerely appreciates the provincial government’s investment in highways and related infrastructure in the southwest,” Swift Current and District Chamber of Commerce CEO Corla Rokochy said. “Continued investment in our transportation network helps local businesses grow, supports tourism and ensures that communities across southwest Saskatchewan remain connected. We value the Government of Saskatchewan’s ongoing commitment to building and maintaining the infrastructure that drives economic opportunity in our region.”

    “Infrastructure investments like those being made in southwest Saskatchewan are vital to the success of our industry,” Saskatchewan Trucking Association Executive Director Susan Ewart said. “Enhancing key trade routes, such as the Trans-Canada Highway, strengthens supply chains, supports innovation through modern vehicle configurations and ensures goods move safely and efficiently. The Saskatchewan Trucking Association welcomes these improvements and the continued commitment to growing our province’s economic backbone.” 

    Some of the projects in the southwest in the Swift Current and Kindersley areas include:

    • An estimated $12.2 million toward Trans-Canada Highway 1 east of Swift Current to pave about 25 km and to upgrade five culverts. The culverts are under Highway 1 eastbound between Waldeck and 7 km west. The paving portions are in the westbound lanes of Highway 1 from west of the Herbert Access Road to about 3 km east of its junction with Highway 4. Work began in April and was completed in July.
    • About $4.5 million to micro-surface more than 95 km of Highway 1 west of Swift Current. Work is expected to begin around mid-August and be completed this fall.
    • An estimated $14 million for daily routine maintenance from spring to fall this year in the southwest. Examples of that maintenance work, which can occur over a day or two include: shoulder work on Highway 37 from its junction with Highway 18 north to Shaunavon and spot sealing west of Cadillac on Highway 13 earlier this year.
    • An estimated $15.9 million to grade and replace culverts toward upgrading work on more than 24 km of Highway 51 west of Biggar. Work began in July and is expected to be finished by late 2026. Paving for the project has yet to be tendered.
    • An estimated $3.4 million toward improving the driving surface of about a 4.5 km segment of Highway 44 between Glidden and Eston. Work began in May and will be completed this summer.
    • About $3.5 million for surface mixing and paving on approximately 10 km of Highway 13 west of Cadillac. The work is anticipated to start in summer of 2025.

    The start and completion dates of all projects are subject to weather.

    Motorists are reminded to check the Highway Hotline before heading out. Saskatchewan’s provincial road information service provides details about construction zones, ferry crossings, closures and incidents related to wildfires.

    Since 2008, the Government of Saskatchewan has invested more than $13.8 billion in transportation infrastructure, improving over 21,800 kilometres of highways across the province.

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    Dan Palmer
    Highways
    Regina
    Phone: 306-787-3179
    Email: 
    dan.palmer@gov.sk.ca

    MIL OSI Canada News

  • MIL-OSI: FLINT Announces Second Quarter 2025 Financial Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CALGARY, Alberta, July 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — FLINT Corp. (“FLINT” or the “Company”) (TSX: FLNT) today announced its results for the three and six months ended June 30, 2025. All amounts are in Canadian dollars and expressed in thousands of dollars unless otherwise noted.

    “EBITDAS” and “Adjusted EBITDAS” are not standard measures under IFRS. Please refer to the Advisory regarding Non-GAAP Financial Measures at the end of this press release for a description of these items and limitations of their use.

    “Our continued commitment to quality execution and disciplined business optimization was once again evident this quarter. Despite a year over year decline in revenues, we delivered improved operating results, demonstrating the resilience of our operating model and the strength of our team,” said Barry Card, Chief Executive Officer.

    “Second quarter revenues, gross profit, and Adjusted EBITDAS all increased compared to the first quarter of 2025. Activity levels were slightly lower than the same period last year, with revenues down approximately 10% in that timeframe. At the same time, gross profit in the second quarter of 2025 reached $18.5 million, and Adjusted EBITDAS was $9.6 million, representing increases of 3% and 16%, respectively, over the second quarter of 2024. Given the current economic and geopolitical landscape, we are seeing delays in the timing of work awarded and executed by our customers. As a result, we anticipate activity levels for the remainder of 2025 to remain broadly consistent with the first half of the year,” added Mr. Card.

    SECOND QUARTER HIGHLIGHTS

    • Revenue for the three months ended June 30, 2025 was $148.3 million, representing a decrease of $16.6 million or 10.1% from the same period in 2024 and an increase of $10.4 million or 7.6% from the first quarter of 2025.
    • Gross profit for the three months ended June 30, 2025 was $18.5 million, representing an increase of $0.5 million or 2.9% from the same period in 2024 and an increase of $4.1 million or 28.5% from the first quarter of 2025.
    • Gross profit margin for the three months ended June 30, 2025 was 12.5%, as compared to 10.9% in the same period in 2024 and 10.4% in the first quarter of 2025.
    • Adjusted EBITDAS for the three months ended June 30, 2025 was $9.6 million, representing an increase of $1.3 million or 16.1% from the same period in 2024 and an increase of $4.5 million or 88.3% from the first quarter of 2025.
    • Adjusted EBITDAS margin was 6.5% for the three months ended June 30, 2025, representing an increase of 1.5% from the same period in 2024 and an increase of 2.8% from the first quarter of 2025.
    • Selling, general and administrative (“SG&A”) expenses for the three months ended June 30, 2025 were $9.4 million, representing a decrease of $0.8 million or 7.5% from the same period in 2024 and was consistent with the first quarter of 2025. As a percentage of revenue, SG&A expenses for the three months ended June 30, 2025 was 6.3%, as compared to 6.2% in the same period in 2024 and 6.8% in the first quarter of 2025.
    • Liquidity, including cash and available credit facilities, was $97.4 million at June 30, 2025, as compared to $41.7 million from the same period in 2024, representing an increase of $55.7 million or 133.5%.
    • New contract awards and renewals totaled approximately $56.8 million for the three months ended June 30, 2025 and $8.8 million for the first three weeks of July. Approximately 68% of the work is expected to be completed in 2025.

    SECOND QUARTER FINANCIAL RESULTS

    ($ thousands, except per share amounts) Three months ended June 30, Six months ended June 30,
    2025   2024   % Change   2025   2024   % Change  
                   
    Revenue ($) 148,302   164,922   (10.1 ) 286,183   311,785   (8.2 )
                   
    Gross Profit ($) 18,508   17,978   2.9   32,909   30,988   6.2  
    Gross Profit Margin (%) 12.5   10.9   1.6   11.5   9.9   1.6  
                   
    Adjusted EBITDAS (1) 9,639   8,305   16.1   14,757   11,493   28.4  
    Adjusted EBITDAS Margin (%) 6.5   5.0   1.5   5.2   3.7   1.5  
                   
    SG&A ($) 9,416   10,181   (7.5 ) 18,777   20,237   (7.2 )
    SG&A Margin (%) 6.3   6.2   0.1   6.6   6.5   0.1  
                   
    Net income (loss) from continuing operations ($) 1,106   (588 ) 288.1   (2,226 ) (5,374 ) 58.6  
    Net income (loss) ($) 1,100   (606 ) 281.5   (2,241 ) (5,618 ) 60.1  
                   
    Basic and Diluted:              
    Net income (loss) per share from continuing operations ($) 0.01   0.00     (0.02 ) (0.05 ) 59.5  
    Net income (loss) per share ($) 0.01   0.00     (0.02 ) (0.05 ) 59.5  
    (1) EBITDAS and Adjusted EBITDAS are not standardmeasures under IFRS and they are defined in the section “Advisory regarding Non-GAAP Financial Measures”
     

    Revenue for the three and six months ended June 30, 2025 was $148,302 and $286,183 compared to $164,922 and $311,785 for the same periods in 2024, representing a decrease of 10.1% and 8.2%. The decrease in revenue was primarily due to the timing of construction and maintenance work as compared to the same periods in 2024.

    Gross profit for the three and six months ended June 30, 2025 was $18,508 and $32,909 compared to $17,978 and $30,988 for the same periods in 2024, representing an increase of 2.9% and 6.2%. Gross profit margin for three and six months ended June 30, 2025 was 12.5% and 11.5%, compared to 10.9% and 9.9% for the same periods in 2024. The increase in gross profit, both on an absolute basis and as a percentage of revenue, was primarily due to the mix of work compared to the same periods in 2024.

    SG&A expenses for the three and six months ended June 30, 2025 were $9,416 and $18,777, in comparison to $10,181 and $20,237 for the same periods in 2024, representing a decrease of 7.5% and 7.2%. As a percentage of revenue, SG&A expenses for the three and six months ended June 30, 2025 were 6.3% and 6.6% compared to 6.2% and 6.5% for the same periods in 2024. The decrease in SG&A expenses is primarily driven by reduced personnel expenses.

    For the three and six months ended June 30, 2025, Adjusted EBITDAS was $9,639 and $14,757 compared to $8,305 and $11,493 for the same periods in 2024. As a percentage of revenue, Adjusted EBITDAS was 6.5% and 5.2% for the three and six months ended June 30, 2025 compared to 5.0% and 3.7% for the same periods in 2024.

    Income from continuing operations for the three and six months ended June 30, 2025 was income of $1,106 and a loss of $2,226 compared to a loss of $588 and a loss of $5,374 for the same periods in 2024. The variance was driven primarily by the increase in gross profit and lower SG&A expenses.

    LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

    FLINT has an asset-based revolving credit facility (the “ABL Facility”) providing for maximum borrowings of up to $50.0 million with a Canadian chartered bank. The amount available under the ABL Facility will vary from time to time based on the borrowing base determined with reference to the accounts receivable of FLINT and certain of its subsidiaries. The maturity date of the ABL Facility is April 14, 2027.

    The Company anticipates that its liquidity (cash on hand and available credit facilities) and cash flows from operations will be sufficient to meet its short-term contractual obligations. To maintain compliance with its financial covenants through June 30, 2026, the Company can request approval from the holder of the Senior Secured Debentures to pay interest on the Senior Secured Debentures in kind.

    As at June 30, 2025, the issued and outstanding share capital included 110,001,239 Common Shares, 127,732 Series 1 Preferred Shares, and 40,100 Series 2 Preferred Shares.

    The Series 1 Preferred Shares (having an aggregate value of $127.732 million) are convertible at the option of the holder into Common Shares at a price of $0.35/share and the Series 2 Preferred Shares (having an aggregate value of $40.100 million) are convertible into Common Shares at a price of $0.10/share.

    The Series 1 and Series 2 Preferred Shares have a 10% fixed cumulative preferential cash dividend payable when the Company has sufficient monies to be able to do so, including under the provisions of applicable law and contracts affecting the Company. The Board of Directors of the Company does not intend to declare or pay any cash dividends until the Company’s balance sheet and liquidity position supports the payment. As at June 30, 2025, the accrued and unpaid dividends on the Series 1 and Series 2 shares totaled $118.6 million. Any accrued and unpaid dividends are convertible in certain circumstances at the option of the holder into additional Series 1 and Series 2 Preferred Shares.

    CORPORATE UPDATES

    The annual meeting of holders of common shares of the Corporation was held on June 24, 2025. At the meeting, shareholders approved the election of Sean McMaster, Barry Card, H. Fraser Clarke, Katrisha Gibson, Karl Johannson and Dean MacDonald as directors and the appointment of Ernst & Young LLP as auditors.

    ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

    Our unaudited condensed interim financial statements for the three and six months ended June 30, 2025 and the related Management’s Discussion and Analysis of the operating and financial results can be accessed on our website at www.flintcorp.com and will be available shortly through SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

    About FLINT Corp.

    With a legacy of excellence and experience stretching back more than 100 years, FLINT provides solutions for the Energy and Industrial markets including: Oil & Gas (upstream, midstream and downstream), Petrochemical, Mining, Power, Agriculture, Forestry, Infrastructure and Water Treatment. With offices strategically located across Canada and a dedicated workforce, we provide maintenance, construction, wear technology and environmental services that help our customers bring their resources to our world. For more information about FLINT, please visit www.flintcorp.com or contact:

    Barry Card   Jennifer Stubbs
    Chief Executive Officer   Chief Financial Officer
    FLINT Corp.   FLINT Corp.
    (587) 318-0997    
    investorrelations@flintcorp.com    
         

    Advisory regarding Forward-Looking Information

    Certain information included in this press release may constitute “forward-looking information” within the meaning of Canadian securities laws. In some cases, forward-looking information can be identified by terminology such as “may”, “will”, “should”, “expect”, “plan”, “anticipate”, “believe”, “estimate”, “predict”, “potential”, “continue” or the negative of these terms or other similar expressions concerning matters that are not historical facts. Specifically, this press release contains forward-looking information relating to: our business plans, strategies and objectives; the sufficiency of our liquidity and cash flow from operations to meet our short-term contractual obligations and maintain compliance with our financial covenants through to June 30, 2026; the payment of interest owing on the Senior Secured Debentures in kind; the Company’s approach to dividends; and that we anticipate activity levels for the remainder of 2025 to remain broadly consistent with the first half of 2025.

    Forward-looking information involves significant risks and uncertainties. A number of factors could cause actual events or results to differ materially from the events and results discussed in the forward-looking information including, but not limited to, compliance with debt covenants, access to credit facilities and other sources of capital for working capital requirements and capital expenditure needs, availability of labour, dependence on key personnel, economic conditions, commodity prices, interest rates, regulatory change, weather and risks related to the integration of acquired businesses. These factors should not be considered exhaustive. Risks and uncertainties about FLINT’s business are more fully discussed in FLINT’s disclosure materials, including its annual information form and management’s discussion and analysis of the operating and financial results, filed with the securities regulatory authorities in Canada and available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. In formulating the forward-looking information, management has assumed that business and economic conditions affecting FLINT will continue substantially in the ordinary course, including, without limitation, with respect to general levels of economic activity, regulations, taxes and interest rates. Although the forward-looking information is based on what management of FLINT consider to be reasonable assumptions based on information currently available to it, there can be no assurance that actual events or results will be consistent with this forward-looking information, and management’s assumptions may prove to be incorrect.

    This forward-looking information is made as of the date of this press release, and FLINT does not assume any obligation to update or revise it to reflect new events or circumstances except as required by law. Undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking information. Forward-looking information is provided for the purpose of providing information about management’s current expectations and plans relating to the future. Readers are cautioned that such information may not be appropriate for other purposes.

    Advisory regarding Non-GAAP Financial Measures

    The terms ‘‘EBITDAS’’ and “Adjusted EBITDAS” (collectively, the ‘‘Non-GAAP Financial Measures’’) are financial measures used in this press release that are not standard measures under IFRS. FLINT’s method of calculating the Non-GAAP Financial Measures may differ from the methods used by other issuers. Therefore, the Non-GAAP Financial Measures, as presented, may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers.

    EBITDAS refers to income (loss) from continuing operations in accordance with IFRS, before depreciation and amortization, interest expense, income tax expense (recovery) and long-term incentive plan expense. EBITDAS is used by management and the directors of FLINT as well as many investors to determine the ability of an issuer to generate cash from operations. Management believes that in addition to income (loss) from continuing operations and cash provided by operating activities, EBITDAS is a useful supplemental measure from which to determine FLINT’s ability to generate cash available for debt service, working capital, capital expenditures and income taxes. FLINT has provided a reconciliation of income (loss) from continuing operations to EBITDAS below.

    Adjusted EBITDAS refers to EBITDAS excluding restructuring expense, gain on sale of property, plant and equipment, other income and one-time incurred expenses. FLINT has used Adjusted EBITDAS as the basis for the analysis of its past operating financial performance. Adjusted EBITDAS is a measure that management believes (i) is a useful supplemental measure from which to determine FLINT’s ability to generate cash available for debt service, working capital, capital expenditures, and income taxes, and (ii) facilitates the comparability of the results of historical periods and the analysis of its operating financial performance which may be useful to investors. FLINT has provided a reconciliation of income (loss) from continuing operations to Adjusted EBITDAS below.

    Investors are cautioned that the Non-GAAP Financial Measures are not alternatives to measures under IFRS and should not, on their own, be construed as an indicator of performance or cash flows, a measure of liquidity or as a measure of actual return on the shares. These Non-GAAP Financial Measures should only be used with reference to FLINT’s consolidated interim and annual financial statements, which are available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca or on FLINT’s website at www.flintcorp.com.

    (In thousands of Canadian dollars) Three months ended June 30,
      Six months ended June 30,
     
    2025   2024   2025   2024  
             
    Income (loss) from continuing operations 1,106   (588 ) (2,226 ) (5,374 )
    Add:        
    Amortization of intangible assets 64   67   129   135  
    Depreciation expense 2,635   2,715   5,400   5,332  
    Long-term incentive plan expense 900   775   1,900   1,375  
    Interest expense 4,715   4,733   9,244   9,315  
    EBITDAS 9,420   7,702   14,447   10,783  
    Add (deduct):        
    Gain on sale of property, plant and equipment (398 ) (274 ) (712 ) (443 )
    Restructuring expenses 314   581   868   976  
    Other income (171 ) (106 ) (327 ) (421 )
    One-time incurred expenses 474   402   481   598  
    Adjusted EBITDAS 9,639   8,305   14,757   11,493  
                     

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Fairfax India Holdings Corporation: Second Quarter Financial Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWS WIRE SERVICES OR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES

    (Note:   All dollar amounts in this press release are expressed in U.S. dollars except as otherwise noted. The financial results are derived from unaudited financial statements prepared using the recognition and measurement requirements of International Financial Reporting Standards as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (“IFRS®Accounting Standards”), except as otherwise noted. This press release contains certain non-GAAP and other financial measures, including book value per share and cash and marketable securities, that do not have a prescribed meaning under IFRS Accounting Standards and may not be comparable to similar financial measures presented by other issuers. See “Glossary of non-GAAP and other financial measures” at the end of this press release for further details.)
         

    TORONTO, July 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Fairfax India Holdings Corporation (TSX: FIH.U) announces net earnings of $278.1 million ($2.06 net earnings per diluted share) in the second quarter of 2025, compared to net earnings of $254.1 million in the second quarter of 2024 ($1.88 net earnings per diluted share). The company’s book value per share increased 10.4% to $21.43 at June 30, 2025 from $19.41 at March 31, 2025 ($20.96 at December 31, 2024), primarily due to unrealized gains recorded on the company’s publicly listed investments.

    Highlights for the second quarter of 2025 included the following:

    • Net change in unrealized gains on investments of $330.9 million principally arose from increases in the fair values of the company’s publicly listed investments of $329.1 million, including IIFL Capital ($129.2 million), IIFL Finance ($110.2 million), CSB Bank ($73.3 million), Fairchem Organics ($11.4 million) and 5paisa ($5.0 million), and private company investments of $0.8 million including BIAL ($6.3 million) and Seven Islands ($3.5 million), partially offset by unrealized losses on the company’s investment in Sanmar ($12.3 million).
    • The company continued to buy back shares under its normal course issuer bid and during the second quarter of 2025 purchased for cancellation 28,758 subordinate voting shares at a net cost of $0.4 million ($15.19 per subordinate voting share).

    Fairfax India is in strong financial health, with cash and marketable securities at June 30, 2025 of $107.0 million and $79.2 million available under its revolving credit facility.

    There were 134.8 million and 135.2 million weighted average common shares outstanding during the second quarters of 2025 and 2024, respectively. At June 30, 2025 there were 104,810,704 subordinate voting shares and 30,000,000 multiple voting shares outstanding.

    Unaudited balance sheets, earnings (loss) and comprehensive income (loss) information follow and form part of this press release. Fairfax India’s detailed second quarter report can be accessed at its website www.fairfaxindia.ca.

    Fairfax India Holdings Corporation is an investment holding company whose objective is to achieve long term capital appreciation, while preserving capital, by investing in public and private equity securities and debt instruments in India and Indian businesses or other businesses with customers, suppliers or business primarily conducted in, or dependent on, India.

    For further information, contact: John Varnell, Vice President, Corporate Affairs
    (416) 367-4755
       

    CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
    as at June 30, 2025 and December 31, 2024
    (unaudited – US$ thousands except per share amounts)

        June 30, 2025
        December 31, 2024
     
    Assets        
    Cash and cash equivalents     20,216       59,322  
    Bonds     110,134       180,507  
    Common stocks     3,738,804       3,381,206  
    Total cash and investments     3,869,154       3,621,035  
             
    Interest and dividends receivable     3,173       8,849  
    Income taxes refundable     174       174  
    Other assets     582       722  
    Total assets     3,873,083       3,630,780  
             
    Liabilities        
    Accounts payable and accrued liabilities     1,019       1,300  
    Accrued interest expense     9,004       8,611  
    Income taxes payable     844       5,379  
    Payable to related parties     10,572       10,099  
    Payable for securities purchased     170,850        
    Deferred income taxes     163,039       149,780  
    Borrowings     498,610       498,349  
    Total liabilities     853,938       673,518  
             
    Equity        
    Common shareholders’ equity     2,888,397       2,826,495  
    Non-controlling interests     130,748       130,767  
    Total equity     3,019,145       2,957,262  
          3,873,083       3,630,780  
             
             
    Book value per share   $ 21.43     $ 20.96  

    CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EARNINGS (LOSS)
    for the three and six months ended June 30, 2025 and 2024
    (unaudited – US$ thousands except per share amounts)

      Second quarter   First six months
        2025       2024       2025       2024  
    Income              
    Interest   1,814       4,730       5,010       9,768  
    Dividends   274       489       3,272       7,538  
    Net realized gains on investments   83       101,400       699       218,324  
    Net change in unrealized gains (losses) on investments   330,883       183,812       108,021       (227,115 )
    Net foreign exchange gains (losses)   (2,129 )     364       1,116       (12 )
        330,925       290,795       118,118       8,503  
    Expenses              
    Investment and advisory fees   10,643       10,122       20,042       19,606  
    General and administration expenses   1,363       2,108       3,011       4,644  
    Interest expense   7,232       6,381       13,987       12,761  
        19,238       18,611       37,040       37,011  
                   
    Earnings (loss) before income taxes   311,687       272,184       81,078       (28,508 )
    Provision for income taxes   33,128       18,037       13,986       10,554  
    Net earnings (loss)   278,559       254,147       67,092       (39,062 )
                   
    Attributable to:              
    Shareholders of Fairfax India   278,113       254,142       66,889       (39,362 )
    Non-controlling interests   446       5       203       300  
        278,559       254,147       67,092       (39,062 )
                   
    Net earnings (loss) per basic and diluted share $ 2.06     $ 1.88     $ 0.50     $ (0.29 )
    Shares outstanding (weighted average)   134,813,388       135,152,447       134,826,353       135,259,190  

    CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)
    for the three and six months ended June 30, 2025 and 2024
    (unaudited – US$ thousands)

      Second quarter   First six months
      2025     2024     2025     2024  
                   
    Net earnings (loss) 278,559     254,147     67,092     (39,062 )
    Other comprehensive loss, net of income taxes              
    Item that may be subsequently reclassified to net earnings (loss)              
    Unrealized foreign currency translation losses, net of income taxes of nil
    (2024 – nil)
    (6,843 )   (633 )   (4,797 )   (6,341 )
    Comprehensive income (loss) 271,716     253,514     62,295     (45,403 )
                   
    Attributable to:              
    Shareholders of Fairfax India 271,705     253,486     62,314     (45,440 )
    Non-controlling interests 11     28     (19 )   37  
      271,716     253,514     62,295     (45,403 )

    This press release may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. Forward-looking statements may relate to the company’s or an Indian Investment’s future outlook and anticipated events or results and may include statements regarding the financial position, business strategy, growth strategy, budgets, operations, financial results, taxes, dividends, plans and objectives of the company. Particularly, statements regarding future results, performance, achievements, prospects or opportunities of the company, an Indian Investment, or the Indian market are forward-looking statements. In some cases, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as “plans”, “expects” or “does not expect”, “is expected”, “budget”, “scheduled”, “estimates”, “forecasts”, “intends”, “anticipates” or “does not anticipate” or “believes”, or variations of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “might”, “will” or “will be taken”, “occur” or “be achieved”. 

    Forward-looking statements are based on our opinions and estimates as of the date of this press release, and they are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, including but not limited to the following factors: oil price risk; geographic concentration of investments; potential lack of diversification; foreign currency fluctuation; volatility of the Indian securities markets; investments may be made in foreign private businesses where information is unreliable or unavailable; valuation methodologies involve subjective judgments; financial market fluctuations; pace of completing investments; minority investments; reliance on key personnel and risks associated with the Investment Advisory Agreement; disruption of the company’s information technology systems could significantly affect the company’s business; lawsuits; use of leverage; significant ownership by Fairfax may adversely affect the market price of the subordinate voting shares; trading price of subordinate voting shares relative to book value per share risk; weather risk; taxation risks; emerging markets; legal, tax and regulatory risks; MLI; economic risk; reliance on trading partners; and economic disruptions from conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East and the development of other geopolitical events and economic disruptions worldwide. Additional risks and uncertainties are described in the company’s annual information form dated March 7, 2025 which is available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and on the company’s website at www.fairfaxindia.ca. These factors and assumptions are not intended to represent a complete list of the factors and assumptions that could affect the company. These factors and assumptions, however, should be considered carefully.

    Although the company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements contained herein, except as required by applicable securities laws.

    GLOSSARY OF NON-GAAP AND OTHER FINANCIAL MEASURES

    Management analyzes and assesses the financial position of the consolidated company in various ways. Certain of the measures included in this press release, which have been used consistently and disclosed regularly in the company’s Annual Reports and interim financial reporting, do not have a prescribed meaning under IFRS Accounting Standards and may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other companies. Those measures are described below.

    Book value per share – The company considers book value per share a key performance measure in evaluating its objective of long term capital appreciation, while preserving capital. This measure is also closely monitored as it is used to calculate the performance fee, if any, to Fairfax Financial Holdings Limited. This measure is calculated by the company as common shareholders’ equity divided by the number of common shares outstanding.

    Cash and marketable securities – The company uses this measure to monitor short term liquidity risk. This measure is calculated by the company as the sum of cash, cash equivalents, short term investments and Government of India bonds.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senators Budd, Gillibrand, Lummis Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Stop Illegal Use of Digital Assets by Criminals and Terrorists

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ted Budd (R-North Carolina)

    Washington, D.C.—U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.) was joined by Senators Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.) and Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.) in reintroducing the Financial Technology Protection Act. The bipartisan bill aims to address the illegal use of financial technologies and digital assets to prevent sanctions evasion, terrorist financing, and money laundering.

    “While financial technologies are driving innovation and expanding individual freedom, criminals and terrorists are exploiting digital assets – putting both our financial and national security at risk. We must take these threats seriously and work toward solutions that put a stop to this rampant criminal activity. I introduced the bipartisan Financial Technology Protection Act to do just that, because we cannot continue to ignore this illicit abuse or hinder this pro-growth technology. I urge my colleagues to support this legislation before these crimes and threats escalate further,” said Senator Budd.

    “As financial technology continues to evolve, we must ensure it strengthens, not threatens, our national security. The bipartisan Financial Technology Protection Act would establish an independent working group that brings together government agencies, regulators, and industry experts to proactively identify emerging risks and develop robust, innovative solutions. This collaborative discourse will ensure we can keep our financial systems safe while bolstering the United States’ leadership on digital asset innovation on the global stage. This bipartisan legislation has already passed the House four times, including a unanimous vote in House Financial Services earlier this month. I look forward to working with Senator Budd to advance it in the Senate,” said Senator Gillibrand.

    “Digital assets are the future of American financial innovation and it is critical that as we craft pro-growth legislation that we also maintain security standards. The Financial Technology Protection Act strikes the right balance of developing safeguards against illicit activities without stifling the innovation that makes our digital economy thrive. I am proud to join Senator Budd in securing America’s position as a leader in the digital asset space while protecting consumers and maintaining the integrity of our financial system,” said Senator Lummis.   

    Read the full bill text HERE.

    BACKGROUND 

    Financial Technology Protection Act:

    • Establishes an independent working group to combat terrorism and illicit financing, made up of:
      • Representatives from the following agencies: Department of the Treasury, Office of Terrorism and Financial Intelligence, Internal Revenue Service, Department of Justice, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Secret Service, Office of the Director of National Intelligence, and Drug Enforcement Administration.
      • Private sector participation from: Financial Technology Companies, Blockchain Intelligence Companies, Financial Institutions, Research Organizations, and Privacy and Civil Liberties Organizations.

    Senator Budd’s legislation was included in the Senate’s market structure bill, led by Senate Subcommittee on Digital Assets Chair Lummis. This legislative package will provide the crypto industry with the regulatory certainty needed to unlock new investments and innovation.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: In Myanmar, conflict and floods collide as UN warns of deepening crisis

    Source: United Nations 4

    Farhan Haq, UN Deputy Spokesperson, stressed the need for unimpeded relief operations and a peaceful path out of crisis.

    The UN remains concerned by ongoing violence in Myanmar, including aerial bombardment hitting civilians and civilian infrastructure,” he said, at the regular press briefing in New York.

    Civilians and humanitarian workers must be protected.

    His remarks come as monsoon rains and flooding – worsened by Cyclone Wipha – swept through parts of the country, further straining regions already destabilized by conflict and a devastating earthquake in March.

    Millions forced to flee

    The crisis left more than 3.3 million people internally displaced, with another 182,000 seeking refuge abroad since the military coup in February 2021, according to the latest UN figures. In addition, over 1.2 million – mostly members of the minority Muslim Rohingya community – were forced to flee the country, driven by waves of violence.

    The largest exodus took place in August 2017, when nearly one million Rohingya fled brutal violence and attacks by security forces, likened to a “textbook example of ethnic cleansing” by then UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Zeid Ra’ad Al Hussein.

    © UNICEF/Nyan Zay Htet

    Disasters and fighting has forced millions across Myanmar to flee their homes in search of safety. Many shelter in IDP camps like this one in central Myanmar.

    Floods, landslides upend lives

    In the flood-affected areas of Bago, Kayin and Mon states, more than 85,000 people have been affected, with homes destroyed, roads cut off and emergency services overstretched.

    Relief partners report significant shortages of food, safe drinking water and medical supplies. In Taungoo district (Bago) alone, three flood-related deaths have been confirmed, while six more people reportedly died in a landslide in Shan state.

    The pathway out of the deteriorating situation in Myanmar requires an end to the violence 
    – UN spokesperson Farhan Haq

    The pathway out of the deteriorating situation in Myanmar requires an end to the violence and unimpeded access for relief workers and supplies,” Mr. Haq stressed, noting that health systems are also under acute strain.

    Disease outbreaks rising

    A humanitarian bulletin from the World Health Organization (WHO)-led Health Cluster warns that floodwaters are driving spikes in acute watery diarrhoea, dengue and malaria.

    There are deep concerns over outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases like measles, and polio is increasing due to low immunization rates and poor hygiene conditions in overcrowded camps.

    WHO has verified 27 attacks on healthcare facilities so far this year, with other monitoring groups reporting over 140 additional incidents.

    Meanwhile, severe funding shortages – exacerbated by cuts in United States funding – have forced the suspension of services at 65 health facilities and 38 mobile clinics across Myanmar. Services at a further 28 mobile clinics have been scaled down.

    © OCHA/Eva Modvig

    Hakha, the capital of Chin state in Myanmar.

    Elections under military cannot be credible

    The political context remains grim. Since the February 2021 military coup, which overthrew the elected government and imprisoned top leaders including State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi, Myanmar has seen a steady escalation of armed conflict and repression.

    The junta’s plans to hold elections have drawn deep concern, including from the UN.

    The Secretary-General reiterates his concern over the military’s plan to hold elections amid ongoing conflict and human rights violations, and without conditions that would permit the people of Myanmar to freely and peacefully exercise their political rights,” said Mr. Haq.

    He recalled Security Council Resolution 2669, adopted in 2022, which called for the immediate release of all arbitrarily detained prisoners, including President Win Myint and Aung San Suu Kyi; upholding democratic institutions and processes; and pursuing in constructive dialogue and reconciliation in accordance with the will and interests of the people of Myanmar.

    Commitment to stay and deliver

    Despite the volatility and access constraints, UN agencies remain committed to reaching affected populations.

    As of July, nearly 306,000 people had received health services in 59 earthquake-hit townships – just 67 per cent of the target population, reflecting the limited funding and security challenges faced by aid workers.

    The United Nations is committed to staying and delivering in Myanmar,” Mr. Haq affirmed, “and to working with all stakeholders, including ASEAN and other regional actors, to attain sustainable peace.

    MIL OSI United Nations News

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Advocating to unleash our nations’ economic power

    Source: Government of Canada regional news (2)

    MIL OSI Canada News

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: In Myanmar, conflict and floods collide as UN warns of deepening crisis

    Source: United Nations 4

    Farhan Haq, UN Deputy Spokesperson, stressed the need for unimpeded relief operations and a peaceful path out of crisis.

    The UN remains concerned by ongoing violence in Myanmar, including aerial bombardment hitting civilians and civilian infrastructure,” he said, at the regular press briefing in New York.

    Civilians and humanitarian workers must be protected.

    His remarks come as monsoon rains and flooding – worsened by Cyclone Wipha – swept through parts of the country, further straining regions already destabilized by conflict and a devastating earthquake in March.

    Millions forced to flee

    The crisis left more than 3.3 million people internally displaced, with another 182,000 seeking refuge abroad since the military coup in February 2021, according to the latest UN figures. In addition, over 1.2 million – mostly members of the minority Muslim Rohingya community – were forced to flee the country, driven by waves of violence.

    The largest exodus took place in August 2017, when nearly one million Rohingya fled brutal violence and attacks by security forces, likened to a “textbook example of ethnic cleansing” by then UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Zeid Ra’ad Al Hussein.

    © UNICEF/Nyan Zay Htet

    Disasters and fighting has forced millions across Myanmar to flee their homes in search of safety. Many shelter in IDP camps like this one in central Myanmar.

    Floods, landslides upend lives

    In the flood-affected areas of Bago, Kayin and Mon states, more than 85,000 people have been affected, with homes destroyed, roads cut off and emergency services overstretched.

    Relief partners report significant shortages of food, safe drinking water and medical supplies. In Taungoo district (Bago) alone, three flood-related deaths have been confirmed, while six more people reportedly died in a landslide in Shan state.

    The pathway out of the deteriorating situation in Myanmar requires an end to the violence 
    – UN spokesperson Farhan Haq

    The pathway out of the deteriorating situation in Myanmar requires an end to the violence and unimpeded access for relief workers and supplies,” Mr. Haq stressed, noting that health systems are also under acute strain.

    Disease outbreaks rising

    A humanitarian bulletin from the World Health Organization (WHO)-led Health Cluster warns that floodwaters are driving spikes in acute watery diarrhoea, dengue and malaria.

    There are deep concerns over outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases like measles, and polio is increasing due to low immunization rates and poor hygiene conditions in overcrowded camps.

    WHO has verified 27 attacks on healthcare facilities so far this year, with other monitoring groups reporting over 140 additional incidents.

    Meanwhile, severe funding shortages – exacerbated by cuts in United States funding – have forced the suspension of services at 65 health facilities and 38 mobile clinics across Myanmar. Services at a further 28 mobile clinics have been scaled down.

    © OCHA/Eva Modvig

    Hakha, the capital of Chin state in Myanmar.

    Elections under military cannot be credible

    The political context remains grim. Since the February 2021 military coup, which overthrew the elected government and imprisoned top leaders including State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi, Myanmar has seen a steady escalation of armed conflict and repression.

    The junta’s plans to hold elections have drawn deep concern, including from the UN.

    The Secretary-General reiterates his concern over the military’s plan to hold elections amid ongoing conflict and human rights violations, and without conditions that would permit the people of Myanmar to freely and peacefully exercise their political rights,” said Mr. Haq.

    He recalled Security Council Resolution 2669, adopted in 2022, which called for the immediate release of all arbitrarily detained prisoners, including President Win Myint and Aung San Suu Kyi; upholding democratic institutions and processes; and pursuing in constructive dialogue and reconciliation in accordance with the will and interests of the people of Myanmar.

    Commitment to stay and deliver

    Despite the volatility and access constraints, UN agencies remain committed to reaching affected populations.

    As of July, nearly 306,000 people had received health services in 59 earthquake-hit townships – just 67 per cent of the target population, reflecting the limited funding and security challenges faced by aid workers.

    The United Nations is committed to staying and delivering in Myanmar,” Mr. Haq affirmed, “and to working with all stakeholders, including ASEAN and other regional actors, to attain sustainable peace.

    MIL OSI United Nations News

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Province takes next step to improve Elk Valley water quality

    Fish, wildlife, ecosystems and communities in the Elk Valley will benefit from an updated plan to improve water quality in the region.

    The Province has updated the Elk Valley Water Quality Plan to improve how B.C. manages the effects of mining on water quality. This is the first time the Elk Valley’s area-based management plan has been amended since it was developed in 2014. The amendment follows a year-long consultation process with governments, First Nations, industry and the public.

    The updated plan includes clear expectations for managing and improving water quality, with goals and guidance for decision-makers. This will help ensure clean water in the Elk Valley and respond to concerns from the community and Ktunaxa First Nations governments.

    The amendment strengthens the ministry’s commitment to protecting the environment and wildlife in the Elk Valley, while supporting an industry crucial to the communities and economy of the region, province and country.

    This amendment is a milestone for the Province, restructuring the plan into a government-led framework for decision-making. The next amendment planned will be a review of the selenium water-quality target for the Koocanusa Reservoir. Planning for this is underway and the Province will continue to engage with partners throughout this process.

    The Elk Valley Water Quality Plan has driven significant investments in water treatment and other strategies to address water quality, and these improvements are starting to become evident. Elk Valley Resources has invested more than $1.5 billion since 2014, and four more water-treatment facilities are being built. These new facilities aim to double the water-treatment capacity at Elk Valley Resources’s mines in the valley by the end of 2027.

    Learn More:

    To learn more about the Elk Valley Area Based Management Plan, including water-quality improvements and the work in progress, visit: https://elkvalleywaterquality.gov.bc.ca/

    MIL OSI Canada News