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Category: Trade

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK fire engines chosen to modernise Iraq fleet

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Iraq’s Ministry of Interior to purchase over 60 British-made vehicles.

    • Exports minister announces that key UK export deal will help Iraq fight fires.

    • UK will provide vital support to Iraq through the provision of fire engines, with biggest overhaul of Iraqi fleet this century being financed by a UK Export Finance loan.

    • Independent businesses in Yorkshire and Ayrshire are to supply these vehicles for use across Iraq.

    Two British businesses are delivering one of Iraq’s biggest-ever investments into its emergency services thanks to a c. $31 million loan from UK Export Finance (UKEF), the government’s export credit agency.

    The loan allows Iraq’s Ministry of Interior to purchase 62 British-made fire-fighting vehicles each capable of carrying up to 6,500 litres of water and 500 litres of foam.

    Promoting investment into local businesses and employers, the partnership supports this government’s Plan for Change to boost economic growth across all regions.

    Ayrshire-headquartered Emergency One and Batley-based Angloco have been selected to supply vehicles for Iraq’s Civil Defence Directorate.

    Emergency One, the UK’s leading manufacturer of fire and rescue vehicles, supplies over 90% of the UK’s fire and rescue services and continues to grow its international presence. Angloco, a well-established SME, exports to over 70 countries worldwide. Both companies bring significant expertise and innovation to this contract, further strengthening their impact in the Gulf region.

    Frequent outbreak of fires in Iraq, particularly during the summer months, can cause devastating effect to businesses, communities, and key infrastructure.

    By helping buyers to purchase UK exports more easily, UKEF loans secure large contracts with favourable payment terms for British businesses – including small businesses likely to need payment upfront before they can deliver a contract. 

    J.P. Morgan acted as both Sole Mandated Lead Arranger and agent bank for the loan.

    Gareth Thomas, UK Minister for Exports, said:

    We have a Plan for Change to help grow our economy and support workers right across the country, and that’s precisely what these deals are about.

    Shining a spotlight on cutting edge tech and highly skilled jobs, this announcement shows the UK’s exporting potential and manufacturing strength.

    His Excellency Abdul Amir Al-Shammari, Iraq Minister of Interior, said:

    The Government of Iraq is contracting with British companies through the UKEF Loan to import specialized firefighting vehicles for the Directorate of Civil Defence.

    This will contribute significantly to the strengthening of the Directorate’s capabilities through the use of high-quality vehicles. This demonstrates the continuous support received by the Directorate by the UK and will improve our ability to tackle fire incidents.

    John Meakin, Global Head of Export Finance at J.P. Morgan, said:

    J.P. Morgan is delighted to support the finance of firefighting equipment from the UK to the Republic of Iraq.

    This is the latest UKEF deal giving businesses the support they need to deliver contracts and drive change at home in the UK and overseas in Iraq. In 2023, a UKEF guarantee helped British firms to secure over £100 million in export contracts to support the installation of 350km in drainage infrastructure around Hillah city.

    Contact 

    Media enquiries:

    Email newsdesk@ukexportfinance.gov.uk

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    Updates to this page

    Published 31 January 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    January 31, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Economics: Asian Development Blog: As Nations Reshore, ASEAN Should Explore Trade, Digitalization and Connectivity

    Source: Asia Development Bank

    The Association of Southeast Asian Nations should leverage trade, tourism, and digitalization to foster economic resilience and sustainable growth amid global economic uncertainty.

    There is a growing sense that the global economy is moving towards a more competitive era as countries are reshoring. Many are bringing their supply chains back home to reduce risks from disruptions. Others are deploying tariffs and other barriers to advance their domestic agenda. 

    Issues around climate change and rivalry around frontier technology (artificial intelligence, big data, internet of things) are increasingly being discussed as issues of national security. 

    To address these issues, the 10 countries of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) must work collectively to achieve their goals of a better economic future of their people and the protection of their national interest. A particular focus on trade, digitalization and connectivity is needed.

    Trade is likely to be focused on services, which covers cross-border transactions under finance, telecom, travel, transport and other business services, like professionals and consultancy services. Each of these plays an important role in ASEAN countries in terms of job creation and economic growth. Post-COVID-19, in the face of a slowdown in goods trade, trade in services showed positive momentum and even positioned ASEAN as a net exporter of services. 

    Travel services, particularly, hold promise for ASEAN as it underscores ASEAN’s attractiveness as a tourist destination. Hence, while aiming to deliver a competitive tourism sector, the ASEAN countries are expected to collectively work on tourism enablers like infrastructure, skills development, marketing promotion, product development and others to increase intra-regional travel in ASEAN, which currently constitutes more than 40% of ASEAN’s total international tourism, adding to the economic resilience of the region.

    The digital economy (including e-commerce, e-health, e-payments, customs automation) at the regional level is expected to grow from $300 billion to almost $1 trillion by 2030. This is reported to reach $2 trillion if the right kind of digital connectivity policies are put in place through regional cooperation. 

    Member countries should consider their collective actions as a regional public good, where benefits from greater trade, travel, digitalization, and connectivity will deliver on sustainable and resilient outcomes for people residing in the region.
     

    The Digital Economy Framework Agreement is a key element of this cooperation. It centers around digital standards, data flow, cybersecurity, digital trade, talent mobility and other digital public infrastructure. 

    Additional benefits from digital cooperation are expected through positive climate impact, creating $12-30 billion in social cost savings, enhancing resilience, creating new employment and improving accessibility of people to educational and healthcare resources. 

    Finally, connectivity that is both physical and institutional in nature is expected to serve the economic competitiveness of ASEAN countries, raising their capacity to engage better with bigger economies of Asia and elsewhere. Sustainable infrastructure – clean energy, low-carbon transport and improved energy efficiency for urban infrastructure – is gaining traction. 

    Combining this with greater cooperation around digitalization, seamless cross-border logistics and supply chains, facilitating the cross-border movement of goods, services and people will safeguard the environment and foster resilience of the countries in the region. 

    The collective thinking about sustainable infrastructure is helpful for ASEAN member countries that have committed to the Paris Agreement and have submitted their Nationally Determined Contributions targeting net zero carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions by 2050 and net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2065, to limit temperature increases of no more than 1.5°C.

    It is opportune for ASEAN policymakers to think afresh on ways to work together. Although there are signs of economic fragmentation at a global level, there are also areas that require cross-border cooperation. 

    Economic independence has grown over time in the region. With emerging pressing issues of digitalization and climate change, mismanaged interdependence may result in costs and lead to economic setbacks. 

    Therefore, for the next term of ASEAN regional cooperation 2045, the member countries should consider their collective actions as a regional public good, where benefits from greater trade, travel, digitalization, connectivity will deliver sustainable and resilient outcomes for people in the region. 
     

    MIL OSI Economics –

    January 31, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Video: Fuelling Morocco’s startup boom

    Source: World Trade Organization – WTO (video statements)

    Expanding a startup isn’t just about innovation—it’s about access to markets, investment, and the right support system. Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P), located in Ben Guerir, Morocco, provides entrepreneurs with training, incubation, and resources to help them scale beyond local borders. By fostering international partnerships and connecting founders to global networks, the university enables startups to navigate new markets, attract investment and drive economic growth.

    Download this video from the WTO website:
    https://www.wto.org/english/res_e/webcas_e/webcas_e.htm

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YXSSGj9adm8

    MIL OSI Video –

    January 31, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: President Lai’s response to Pope Francis’s 2025 World Day of Peace message  

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    Details
    2025-01-17
    President Lai meets former US Vice President Mike Pence
    On the afternoon of January 17, President Lai Ching-te met with former Vice President of the United States Mike Pence. In remarks, President Lai thanked former Vice President Pence for his contributions to the deepening of Taiwan-US relations, noting that he actively helped to strengthen Taiwan-US cooperation and facilitate the normalization of military sales to Taiwan, and did his utmost to deepen the Taiwan-US economic partnership. The president indicated that former Vice President Pence also spoke up for Taiwan on numerous occasions at international venues, backing Taiwan’s international participation. President Lai expressed hope for a stronger Taiwan-US partnership to maintain peace and stability throughout the world, and that the two sides can advance bilateral exchanges in such areas as the economy, trade, and industry. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: I am delighted to welcome former Vice President Pence and Mrs. Karen Pence to the Presidential Office. Former Vice President Pence is not only an outstanding political leader in the US, but also a staunch supporter of Taiwan on the international stage. On behalf of the people of Taiwan, I would like to take this opportunity to extend our deepest gratitude to former Vice President Pence for his contributions to the deepening of Taiwan-US relations. Thanks to former Vice President Pence’s strong backing, ties between Taiwan and the US rose to unprecedented heights during President Donald Trump’s first administration. Former Vice President Pence actively helped to strengthen Taiwan-US security cooperation and facilitate the normalization of military sales to Taiwan, helping Taiwan reinforce its self-defense capabilities. He also did his utmost to deepen the Taiwan-US economic partnership. Former Vice President Pence also paid close attention to the military threats and diplomatic isolation faced by Taiwan. He spoke up for Taiwan on numerous occasions at international venues, taking concrete action to back Taiwan’s international participation. We were truly grateful for this. As we speak, China’s political and military intimidation against Taiwan persist. China and other authoritarian regimes, such as Russia, North Korea, and Iran, are continuing to converge and present serious challenges to democracies around the globe. At this moment, free and democratic nations must come together to bolster cooperation. I believe that a stronger Taiwan-US partnership can be an even more powerful force in maintaining peace and stability throughout the world. Former Vice President Pence has previously supported the signing of a trade agreement between Taiwan and the US. Taiwan looks forward to continuing to work with the new US administration and Congress to advance bilateral exchanges in such areas as the economy, trade, and industry. This is the first time that former Vice President Pence and Mrs. Pence are visiting Taiwan, and their visit is significantly meaningful for Taiwan-US exchanges. On behalf of the people of Taiwan, I want to extend a warm welcome. Moving forward, I hope we will jointly realize even more fruitful achievements through Taiwan-US cooperation. Former Vice President Pence then delivered remarks, thanking President Lai for his hospitality on his and his wife’s first visit to Taiwan, saying that it is an honor to be here to reaffirm the bonds of friendship between the people of America and the people of Taiwan, which are strong and longstanding. The former vice president indicated that the American people admire the people of Taiwan and all that has been accomplished in a few short decades for Taiwan to rise to one of the world’s preeminent economic powers and free societies. He said that he is grateful for President Lai’s courageous and bold leadership of Taiwan, and grateful to be able to express the support of the overwhelming majority of the American people for this alliance. Former Vice President Pence indicated that the values shared by Taiwan and the US, including freedom, the rule of law, and respect for human rights, bind us together in a partnership that transcends geographic boundaries and cultures. He then assured President Lai that China’s increasingly aggressive posture in the Taiwan Strait and across the Indo-Pacific, for the values and interests that both sides share, is deeply concerning to the American people. Former Vice President Pence stated that America is a Pacific nation, and is committed to the status quo, adding that they recognize it is China that wants to change the status quo that America, Taiwan, and other allies in the region want to preserve, which has created an environment of extraordinary growth and prosperity. The former vice president concluded by once again thanking President Lai and his team for their gracious hospitality and conveying best wishes to him and the people of Taiwan. Former Vice President Pence then assured President Lai that just as Taiwan will never surrender its freedom, he will continue to be a voice for a strong US-Taiwan relationship in the defense and the benefit of Taiwan, the US, and the free world. Later that day, Vice President Bi-khim Hsiao hosted a banquet for former Vice President Pence and his delegation at Taipei Guest House to thank him for his longstanding friendship and staunch support for Taiwan-US ties.  

    Details
    2025-01-17
    President Lai meets delegation to 60th Inaugural Ceremonies of US president and vice president
    On the morning of January 16, President Lai Ching-te met with Taiwan’s delegation to the 60th Inaugural Ceremonies of the President and Vice President of the United States. In remarks, President Lai stated that democratic Taiwan stands united, working hard to deepen Taiwan-US ties together. He then entrusted the delegation with three missions: to convey best wishes from the people of Taiwan, convey our firm commitment to democracy, and help Taiwan-US relations reach a new milestone. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: The 60th Inaugural Ceremonies of the President and Vice President of the US will be held on January 20. I want to thank Speaker Han Kuo-yu (韓國瑜), president of the Legislative Yuan, for accepting my invitation to lead our nation’s representative delegation to the event. I also thank Legislative Yuan Members Ko Chih-en (柯志恩), Wang Ting-yu (王定宇), Ko Ju-chun (葛如鈞), Lee Yen-hsiu (李彥秀), Chen Kuan-ting (陳冠廷), Kuo Yu-ching (郭昱晴), and Chen Gau-tzu (陳昭姿) for joining this visit to the US to attend the inauguration of President Donald Trump and Vice President J.D. Vance. We have gathered together today despite differences in party affiliation because in democratic Taiwan, while parties may compete domestically, when it comes to engagement externally, they stand united and share responsibility, working hard to deepen Taiwan-US ties and strive for the best interests of the nation. We share the value of defending freedom and democracy, and we share the goal of advancing peace and prosperity. Today, we engage with the world together as those from the same country – the Republic of China (Taiwan). In this complex and volatile new international landscape, and as the nation faces difficulties and challenges, I want to stress that in Formosa, there is no hostility that cannot be let go, and no hardship that cannot be overcome. Unity is the most important, and I hope that Taiwan can stand united, because there is true strength in unity. Democratic Taiwan must stand united in engaging with the world and initiate exchanges with confidence. On that ground, I am entrusting this delegation with three key missions. First, convey best wishes from the people of Taiwan. Just last year, Taiwan and the US celebrated the 45th anniversary of the passage of the Taiwan Relations Act. And on May 20, the US sent a senior bipartisan delegation to congratulate me and Vice President Bi-khim Hsiao on our inauguration. As the leader of this cross-party delegation, Speaker Han must clearly convey the well-wishes of the people of Taiwan, congratulate President Trump and Vice President Vance on their inauguration, and wish success to the new administration and prosperity to the US. Second, clearly convey the firm commitment of the people of Taiwan to democracy. The theme of these inaugural ceremonies is “Our Enduring Democracy: A Constitutional Promise.” Taiwan and the US share the universal value of democracy and are staunch allies. I hope that the delegation can faithfully convey the firm commitment to democracy that the people of Taiwan have, which will not change even in the face of authoritarian threats. Taiwan is willing to stand side by side with the US and other members of the democratic community to defend the sustainable development of global democracy and prevent the expansion of authoritarianism. Third, help Taiwan-US relations reach a new milestone. In recent years, Taiwan-US relations have continued to grow, with the first agreement under the Taiwan-US Initiative on 21st Century Trade having formally taken effect last month. This morning, the House of Representatives also passed the US-Taiwan Expedited Double-Tax Relief Act. I hope that the delegation can help Taiwan-US relations reach a new milestone through these exchanges so that our relations continue to grow, our cooperation expands even more, and so that we can achieve even greater success after the new administration takes office. Four years ago, Taiwan’s representative to the US inaugural ceremonies was Vice President Hsiao, who was then our representative to the US. Everyone has a lot to learn from her. I have specially invited everyone here to converse so that you can draw from Vice President Hsiao’s experience and ensure an even smoother visit. Washington, DC was also hit by a rare blizzard recently, and the weather has been very cold, so make sure to stay warm. I am sending everyone off with hand warmers and thermoses so that you can bring some warmth from Taiwan with you on your journey. And I ask that Speaker Han exercise his wisdom to help generate some warmth between the ruling and opposition parties through cooperation, which they can then bring back to Taiwan. Let us unite to give our all for diplomacy so that we can unite to give our all for Taiwan. I wish the delegation a smooth and safe trip, and hope your missions can be carried out successfully. Speaker Han then delivered remarks, stating that it was an honor to be invited by President Lai to organize a delegation to represent our nation at the 60th Inaugural Ceremonies of the President and Vice President of the US in Washington, DC, and express the Republic of China’s sincere and cordial best wishes. The Legislative Yuan’s president has assumed this important task numerous times in the past, he said, not only to represent the government of the Republic of China, but also to take on the mission of conveying the voices of 23 million people. He went on to say that he is honored to take up the baton, lead eight legislators to the US to attend this celebration that will attract global attention, and express sincere best wishes to newly elected President Trump, Vice President Vance, and the new administration’s team. As enjoined by President Lai, he hopes the delegation’s trip will help open a new chapter in Taiwan-US exchanges. Speaker Han stated that the US is the most free and democratic country in the world. He noted that in 1776 in the US Declaration of Independence, founding father Thomas Jefferson propounded the concept of “unalienable rights,” and emphasized that the people have a right to freedom and the pursuit of happiness, democratic ideas that have long been rooted in the people’s hearts. Today, he said, democracy is also embedded in the DNA of Taiwan’s 23 million people, and this hard-won democratic achievement is a result of the concerted efforts of our pioneering predecessors, thinkers, and activists over the past 100 years. Speaker Han stated that during this visit, the Legislative Yuan delegation hopes to convey the voice of Taiwan as a democratic country. Taiwan’s security, he said, is like the four legs of a table: The first leg is defending the Republic of China, the second is defending freedom and democracy, the third is maintaining Taiwan-US relations, and the fourth is maintaining cross-strait peace. The delegation will travel to the US amidst severe cold weather to show that we value our relationship with the US, and our citizens have great hopes and expectations. Speaker Han stated that this will be a cross-party delegation of eight legislators, all of whom have a strong sense of mission. He hopes that all democratic nations will acknowledge Taiwan’s importance, and pay attention to Taiwan’s 23 million people. The delegation, he said, will do its utmost to convey the goodwill and warmth that the people of Taiwan give to each and every one of our good friends.

    Details
    2025-01-17
    President Lai confers decoration on former Lithuanian Foreign Minister Gabrielius Landsbergis
    On the morning of January 14, President Lai Ching-te conferred the Order of Brilliant Star with Special Grand Cordon upon former Minister of Foreign Affairs Gabrielius Landsbergis of the Republic of Lithuania in recognition of his remarkable contributions to deepening Taiwan-Lithuania relations. In remarks, President Lai thanked former Minister Landsbergis for standing firmly with Taiwan and remaining a staunch defender of democratic values, yielding fruitful cooperative results. The president expressed hope that the two countries will engage in even more cooperation and exchanges in such areas as the economy, trade, technology, and culture, and continue to advocate for the values of freedom and democracy so that together we can contribute even more to our nations’ development and to peace and prosperity throughout the world. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: Today, by conferring the Order of Brilliant Star with Special Grand Cordon upon former Minister Landsbergis, we recognize his outstanding contributions during his time as foreign minister of Lithuania. On behalf of the people of Taiwan, I thank him for the key role he has played in deepening Taiwan-Lithuania relations. During the COVID-19 pandemic, thanks to the efforts of former Minister Landsbergis, Lithuania was the first European nation to donate vaccines to Taiwan. On that occasion, he stated that “freedom-loving people should look out for each other.” His statement was very moving and left a deep impression on many Taiwanese people. We will never forget it. Former Minister Landsbergis has continued to express the spirit of those words through his concrete actions. With his staunch support, Taiwan and Lithuania have mutually established representative offices. Moreover, our representative office in Lithuania was the first in Europe to incorporate “Taiwan” in its name. As for bilateral cooperation, Taiwan and Lithuania have seen fruitful results in such fields as semiconductors, laser technology, finance, and medicine. Be it overcoming the challenges posed by the pandemic or resisting expanding authoritarianism, former Minister Landsbergis has stood firmly with Taiwan and remained a staunch defender of democratic values. We greatly admire and appreciate his spirit. Today, authoritarian regimes continue to converge, posing threats and challenges to democracies around the world. Taiwan, Lithuania, and other democratic countries must come closer together, drawing on the strength of unity, so as to jointly safeguard freedom and democracy and uphold the rules-based international order. Looking ahead, we hope that Taiwan and Lithuania will engage in even more cooperation and exchanges in such areas as the economy, trade, technology, and culture. Let us continue to advocate for the values of freedom and democracy. Together, we can contribute even more to our nations’ development and to peace and prosperity throughout the world. In closing, I once again thank you, former Minister Landsbergis, for your support and for all that you have done for Taiwan. We welcome you and your wife to visit often. I wish you both a smooth and successful visit in Taiwan, and hope you leave with lasting memories.    Former Minister Landsbergis then delivered remarks, saying that it is a great honor to receive the decoration today. He noted that only partially can he accept the honor, as there have been many people who worked together with him in the ministry and in the whole country who support the people of Taiwan and see the benefit of supporting democracy in Taiwan. He often says that in Lithuania they remember well the fight for their freedom, and just today, he mentioned, he was shown the permanent exhibition in the Presidential Office, where he saw similar pictures of Taiwanese people fighting for democracy. He emphasized that not even one generation has passed since these events took place here in Taipei or similar events took place in Vilnius. Former Minister Landsbergis said that decision-makers in the Lithuanian government are either people who were themselves fighting for freedom, or, as in his case, those who were sitting on the shoulders of parents who were fighting for freedom. So for them, he underlined, freedom, democracy, liberty, and sovereignty are very real concepts that they cherish, not just things read about in a history book. He said that this is the main connector between Lithuania and Taiwan, a feeling of freedom and support for each other. Former Minister Landsbergis stated that in the face of authoritarians who do not wish us prosperity, who do not wish us freedom and future achievements, what he expects from the future is that the friendship, collaboration, and mutual support between Lithuania and Taiwan will inspire others to join in. This, he said, will make other countries not be afraid to support freedom and democracy, and will allow our group of friends to continue to grow. Lithuanian history, the former minister said, is difficult, and a big part of it was fighting for their freedom. He explained that during the 19th century when Lithuania was part of Russia’s empire, they had several revolutions and uprisings with the aim of becoming free, and that they were fighting for that freedom alongside Poland and Belarus. He then applied a phrase that they used in the revolution of 1864 – “for your freedom and ours,” meaning that they will continue to fight for their freedom while helping Taiwan fight for ours. Also in attendance at the ceremony were former Minister Landsbergis’ wife Dr. Austėja Landsbergienė and Lithuanian Representative to Taiwan Paulius Lukauskas.

    Details
    2025-01-17
    Presidential Office thanks White House for its statement on enduring US commitment to Indo-Pacific region
    On January 10 (US EST), the US White House released a statement on the United States’ Enduring Commitment to the Indo-Pacific Region, in which it reaffirms its position of using a range of methods to help Taiwan maintain a sufficient self-defense capability so as to maintain peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region and across the Taiwan Strait. Presidential Office Spokesperson Karen Kuo (郭雅慧) on January 11 expressed sincere gratitude to the US government for taking concrete actions to fulfill its security commitments to Taiwan, advancing the close Taiwan-US security partnership, and supporting Taiwan in its efforts to enhance its self-defense capabilities and resilience. Spokesperson Kuo stated that the deepening Taiwan-US security partnership is a critical cornerstone for peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. She noted that Taiwan, as a force for good and regional stability, will continue to work alongside like-minded countries to strengthen defense resilience as we jointly defend the values of freedom and democracy and ensure the peace, stability, and prosperity of the Indo-Pacific region.

    Details
    2025-01-17
    President Lai meets Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute delegation
    On the morning of January 9, President Lai Ching-te met with a delegation from the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute (RRPFI). In remarks, President Lai thanked RRPFI President David Trulio and members of RRPFI for remaining undaunted by China’s threats and sanctions, and lending great support to Taiwan. He emphasized that facing the continued expansion of authoritarianism, Taiwan will actively implement the Four Pillars of Peace action plan to preserve regional peace and stability, safeguard the values of democracy and freedom, and advance worldwide prosperity and development. President Lai expressed hope that they can continue to collaborate to promote the development of Taiwan-United States relations and put RRPFI’s principles into practice. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: First, let me warmly welcome President Trulio, who is leading this delegation from RRPFI to Taiwan. And on behalf of all the people of Taiwan, I want to extend our heartfelt condolences in wake of the ongoing fires in California. I hope that they can be put out swiftly so that harm is reduced, and I hope that those who are injured are able to receive timely help. President Reagan was a staunch friend of Taiwan. The Six Assurances he put forward in 1982 and the Taiwan Relations Act passed by Congress in 1979 form the bedrock of Taiwan-US relations. The incorporation of the Six Assurances into the Asia Reassurance Initiative Act of 2018 further established bipartisan, bicameral, and cross-agency US support for Taiwan. With authoritarianism continuing to expand, President Reagan’s conviction of peace through strength is proving to be especially crucial as democracies unite to protect freedom, democracy, peace, and the rules-based international order. RRPFI honors President Reagan’s legacy by championing such principles as individual liberty, economic opportunity, global democracy, and national pride. Many of you have served previous US administrations as part of national security teams, and many of you are longstanding friends of Taiwan. I sincerely hope that we can continue to collaborate to promote the development of Taiwan-US relations and put RRPFI’s principles into practice. I also want to extend particular gratitude to President Trulio and RRPFI for lending great support to Taiwan. Undaunted by China’s threats and sanctions, you warmly welcomed former President Tsai Ing-wen to the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library during her stopover in California in April 2023 and arranged a delegation to visit Taiwan in October of the same year. As for the continued expansion of authoritarianism, Taiwan will meet it head on, and uphold President Reagan’s spirit of peace through strength. We will actively implement the Four Pillars of Peace action plan by strengthening national defense, building economic security, and demonstrating stable and principled cross-strait leadership, as well as promoting values-based diplomacy. Bolstering Taiwan’s cooperation with the US and other democracies will preserve regional peace and stability, safeguard the values of democracy and freedom, and advance worldwide prosperity and development. President Trulio then delivered remarks, first thanking President Lai for his warm welcome and saying that he and the delegation are deeply honored to be with him in Taiwan, along with so many top leaders in his administration. President Trulio added that they are proud to advance President Reagan’s legacy and timeless principles, and our collective shared values. President Trulio indicated that President Reagan visited Taiwan twice before he became president. Acknowledging what President Lai stated, he noted that it was President Reagan’s administration that developed what became known as the Six Assurances, a framework that to this day serves as the foundation of relations between the US and Taiwan. More broadly, President Trulio said, President Reagan knew that America’s strength and the strength of its allies and friends are key to global peace, prosperity, and security. He said President Reagan also knew that societies that provide economic opportunity and democracy offer a better life for their citizens. In fact, he stated, President Reagan said that freedom is not the sole prerogative of a lucky few, but the inalienable and universal right of all human beings. President Trulio went on to say that Taiwan’s open society and thriving democracy make the commitment to freedom here plain for all to see. President Trulio noted that RRPFI had the honor of visiting Taipei in October 2023, when the delegation met then-President Tsai. He said that their return visit to Taipei at the start of 2025 comes at a crucial time, and that part of what makes that timing so significant is that there will be a new administration inaugurated in Washington in about 10 days. Over the course of their visits to Taiwan, President Trulio said, it has been plain to see that Taiwan stands strong as a vibrant democracy, with political parties sharing a commitment to democratic principles. He said it is also plain to see that Taiwan’s advanced economy and global technological leadership present positive opportunities for the US. He added that it is also plain to see that the security situation across the Taiwan Strait demands a continued commitment to peace through strength, including through robust partnership with Taiwan and sustained US deterrence. President Trulio stated that he looks forward to addressing the opportunities and challenges facing Taiwan and the US, and is confident that together, we will further well into the future our shared commitment to freedom and democracy, economic opportunity, and security and stability. The delegation also included RRPFI Washington Director Roger Zakheim, Director of the Alexander Hamilton Center for Classical and Civic Education at the University of Florida William Inboden, Palantir Technologies Senior Counselor Jamie Fly, former Deputy White House Staff Secretary Catherine Bellah, Anduril Industries Policy Director Dustin Walker, Hudson Institute Adjunct Fellow Alexander Benard, RRPFI Policy Director Rachel Hoff, and RRPFI Digital Strategy and Communications Director James Rogers.

    Details
    2025-01-01
    President Lai delivers 2025 New Year’s Address
    On the morning of January 1, President Lai Ching-te delivered his 2025 New Year’s Address, titled “Bolstering National Strength through Democracy to Enter a New Global Landscape,” in the Reception Hall of the Presidential Office. President Lai stated that today’s Taiwan is receiving international recognition for its performance in many areas, among them democracy, technology, and economy. In this new year, he said, Taiwan must be united, and we must continue on the right course. The president expressed hope that everyone in the central and local governments, regardless of party, can work hard together, allowing Taiwan sure footing as it strides forward toward ever greater achievements.  President Lai emphasized that in 2025, we must keep firm on the path of democracy, continue to bolster our national strength, make Taiwan more economically resilient, enhance the resilience of supply chains for global democracies, and continue working toward a Balanced Taiwan and generational justice, ensuring that the fruits of our economic growth can be enjoyed by all our people. The president said that Taiwan will keep going strong, and we will keep walking tall as we enter the new global landscape. A translation of President Lai’s address follows: Today is the first day of 2025. With a new year comes new beginnings. I wish that Taiwan enjoys peace, prosperity, and success, and that our people lead happy lives. Taiwan truly finished 2024 strong. Though there were many challenges, there were also many triumphs. We withstood earthquakes and typhoons, and stood firm in the face of constant challenges posed by authoritarianism. We also shared glory as Taiwan won the Premier12 baseball championship, and now Taiwanese people around the world are all familiar with the gesture for Team Taiwan. At the Paris Olympics, Wang Chi-lin (王齊麟) and Lee Yang (李洋) clinched another gold in men’s doubles badminton. Lin Yu-ting (林郁婷) took home Taiwan’s first Olympic gold in boxing. At the International Junior Science Olympiad, every student in our delegation of six won a gold medal. And Yang Shuang-zi’s (楊双子) novel Taiwan Travelogue, translated into English by King Lin (金翎), became a United States National Book Award winner and a tour de force of Taiwan literature on the international level. Our heroes of Taiwan are defined by neither age nor discipline. They have taken home top prizes at international competitions and set new records. They tell Taiwan’s story through their outstanding performances, letting the world see the spirit and culture of Taiwan, and filling all our citizens with pride. My fellow citizens, we have stood together through thick and thin; we have shared our ups and downs. We have wept together, and we have laughed together. We are all one family, all members of Team Taiwan. I want to thank each of our citizens for their dedication, fueling Taiwan’s progress and bringing our nation glory. You have given Taiwan even greater strength to stand out on the global stage. In this new year, we must continue bringing Taiwan’s stories to the world, and make Taiwan’s successes a force for global progress. In 2025, the world will be entering a new landscape. Last year, over 70 countries held elections, and the will of the people has changed with the times. As many countries turn new pages politically, and in the midst of rapid international developments, Taiwan must continue marching forward with steady strides. First, we must keep firm on the path of democracy. Taiwan made it through a dark age of authoritarianism and has since become a glorious beacon of democracy in Asia. This was achieved through the sacrifices of our democratic forebears and the joint efforts of all our citizens. Democracy’s value to Taiwan lies not just in our free way of life, or in the force driving the diverse and vigorous growth of our society. Democracy is the brand that has earned us international trust in terms of diplomacy. No matter the threat or challenge Taiwan may face, democracy is Taiwan’s only path forward. We will not turn back. Domestic competition among political parties is a part of democracy. But domestic political disputes must be resolved democratically, within the constitutional system. This is the only way democracy can continue to grow. The Executive Yuan has the right to request a reconsideration of the controversial bills passed in the Legislative Yuan, giving it room for reexamination. Constitutional institutions can also lodge a petition for a constitutional interpretation, and through Constitutional Court adjudication, ensure a separation of powers, safeguard constitutional order, and gradually consolidate the constitutional system. The people also have the right of election, recall, initiative, and referendum, and can bring together even greater democratic power to show the true meaning of sovereignty in the hands of the people. In this new year, the changing international landscape will present democratic nations around the world with many grave challenges. Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and conflict between Israel and Hamas rage on, and we are seeing the continued convergence of authoritarian regimes including China, Russia, North Korea, and Iran, threatening the rules-based international order and severely affecting peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region and the world at large. Peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait are essential components for global security and prosperity. Taiwan needs to prepare for danger in times of peace. We must continue increasing our national defense budget, bolster our national defense capabilities, and show our determination to protect our country. Everyone has a responsibility to safeguard Taiwan’s democracy and security. We must gather together every bit of strength we have to enhance whole-of-society defense resilience, and build capabilities to respond to major disasters and deter threats or encroachment. We must also strengthen communication with society to combat information and cognitive warfare, so that the populace rejects threats and enticements and jointly guards against malicious infiltration by external forces. Here at home, we must consolidate democracy with democracy. Internationally, we must make friends worldwide through democracy. This is how we will ensure security and peace. The more secure Taiwan, the more secure the world. The more resilient Taiwan, the sounder the defense of global democracy. The global democratic community should work even closer together to support the democratic umbrella as we seek ways to resolve the war in Ukraine and conflict between Israel and Hamas. Together, we must uphold stability in the Taiwan Strait and security in the Indo-Pacific, and achieve our goal of global peace. Second, we must continue to bolster our national strength, make Taiwan more economically resilient, and enhance the resilience of supply chains for global democracies. In the first half of 2024, growth in the Taiwan Stock Index was the highest in the world. Our economic growth rate for the year as a whole is expected to reach 4.2 percent, leading among the Four Asian Tigers. Domestic investment is soaring, having exceeded NT$5 trillion, and inflation is gradually stabilizing. Export orders from January to November totaled US$536.6 billion, up 3.7 percent from the same period in 2023. And compared over the same period, exports saw a 9.9 percent increase, reaching US$431.5 billion. Recent surveys also show that in 2024, the average increase in salaries at companies was higher than that in 2023. Additionally, over 90 percent of companies plan to raise salaries this year, which is an eight-year high. All signs indicate that Taiwan’s economic climate continues to recover, and that our economy is growing steadily. Our overall economic performance is impressive; still, we must continue to pay attention to the impact on Taiwan’s industries from the changing geopolitical landscape, uncertainties in the global economic environment, and dumping by the “red supply chain.”  For a nation, all sectors and professions are equally important; only when all our industries are strong can Taiwan be strong as a nation. Our micro-, small-, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) are the lifeblood of Taiwan, and the development of our various industrial parks has given Taiwan the impetus for our prosperity. We must carry the spirit of “Made in Taiwan” forward, bringing it to ever greater heights. Thus, beyond just developing our high-tech industry, our Executive Yuan has already proposed a solution that will help traditional industries and MSMEs comprehensively adopt technology applications, engage in the digital and net-zero twin transition, and develop channels, all for better operational structures and higher productivity. Taiwan must continue enhancing its economic resilience. In recent years, Taiwan has significantly increased its investments in the US, Japan, Europe, and the New Southbound countries, and such investment has already surpassed investment in China. This indicates that our efforts in diversifying markets and reducing reliance on any single market are working. Moving forward, we must keep providing assistance so that Taiwan industries can expand their global presence and market internationally from a solid base here in Taiwan. At the same time, Taiwan must use democracy to promote economic growth with the rest of the world. We must leverage our strengths in the semiconductor and AI industries. We must link with democratic countries so that we can together enhance the resilience of supply chains for global democracies. And through international cooperation across many sectors, such as UAVs, low-orbit communications satellites, robots, military, security and surveillance, or biopharmaceuticals, renewable energy technology, new agriculture, and the circular economy, we must keep abreast of the latest cutting-edge technology and promote diverse development. This approach will help Taiwan remain a leader in advancing global democratic supply chains, ensuring their security and stability. Third, we must continue working toward a Balanced Taiwan and generational justice, ensuring that the fruits of our economic growth can be enjoyed by all our people. Democracy means the people have the final say. Our nation belongs to all 23 million of us, without regard for ethnic group, generation, political party, or whether we live in urban or rural areas. In this new year, we must continue to pursue policies that promote the well-being of the nation and the people. But to that end, the central government needs adequate financial resources to ensure that it can enact each of these measures. Therefore, I hope that the ruling and opposition parties can each soberly reconsider the amendments to the Act Governing the Allocation of Government Revenues and Expenditures and find a path forward that ensures the lasting peace and stability of our country. For nine consecutive years, the minimum wage has continued to rise. Effective today, the minimum monthly salary is being raised from NT$27,470 to NT$28,590, and the hourly salary from NT$183 to NT$190. We hope by raising the pay for military personnel, civil servants, and educators for two consecutive years, coupled with benefits through wage increases and tax reductions, that private businesses will also raise wages, allowing all our people to enjoy the fruits of our economic growth. I know that everyone wants to pay lower taxes and rent. This year, we will continue to promote tax reductions. For example, unmarried individuals with an annual income of NT$446,000 or less can be exempt from paying income tax. Dual-income families with an annual income of NT$892,000 or less and dual-income families with two children aged six or younger with an annual income of NT$1,461,000 or less are also exempt from paying income tax. Additionally, the number of rent-subsidized housing units will also be increased, from 500,000 to 750,000 units, helping lighten the load for everyone. This year, the age eligibility for claiming Culture Points has been lowered from 16 to 13 years, so that now young people aged between 13 and 22 can receive government support for experiencing more in the arts. Also, our Taiwan Global Pathfinders Initiative is about to take effect, which will help more young people in Taiwan realize their dreams by taking part in education and exchange activities in many places around the world. We are also in the process of establishing a sports ministry to help young athletes achieve their dreams on the field, court, and beyond. The ministry will also be active in developing various sports industries and bringing sports and athletics more into the lives of the people, making our people healthier as a result. This year, as Taiwan becomes a “super-aged society,” we will launch our Long-term Care 3.0 Plan to provide better all-around care for our seniors. And we will expand the scope of cancer screening eligibility and services, all aimed at creating a Healthy Taiwan. In addition, Taiwan will officially begin collecting fees for its carbon fee system today. This brings us closer in line with global practices and helps us along the path to our goal of net-zero emissions by 2050. We will also continue on the path to achieving a Balanced Taiwan. Last month, the Executive Yuan launched the Trillion NT Dollar Investment National Development Plan and its six major regional flagship projects. Both of these initiatives will continue to expand the investment in our public infrastructure and the development of local specialty industries, narrowing urban-rural and wealth gaps so that all our people can live and work in peace and happiness. My fellow citizens, today’s Taiwan is receiving international recognition for its performance in many areas, among them democracy, technology, and economy. This tells us that national development is moving in the right direction. In this new year, Taiwan must be united, and we must continue on the right course. We hope that everyone in the central and local governments, regardless of party, can work hard together to ensure that national policies are successfully implemented, with the people’s well-being as our top priority. This will allow Taiwan sure footing as it strides forward toward ever greater achievements. In this new year, we have many more brilliant stories of Taiwan to share with the world, inspiring all Taiwanese, both here and around the world, to cheer time and again for the glory of Taiwan. Taiwan will keep going strong. And we will keep walking tall as we enter the new global landscape. Thank you.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    January 31, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Africa: African Mining Week (AMW) to Showcase Africa’s Rising Investment Potential in the Mining Sector

    Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

    CAPE TOWN, South Africa, January 31, 2025/APO Group/ —

    International investments in Africa’s mining sector are surging as global demand for both traditional and emerging minerals continues to grow. For example, Australian mining firms saw their asset value in Africa reach $60 billion in 2024, while Canadian firms’ assets climbed to $37 billion. China also launched an ambitious $50 billion, three-year investment strategy targeting increased stakes in Africa’s most lucrative opportunities including in the mining sector.

    The upcoming African Mining Week Summit, scheduled for October 1 – 3 in Cape Town, will highlight profitable opportunities within Africa’s mining industry and reinforce the continent’s attractiveness as an investment destination for global mining financiers.

    Untapped Mineral Deposits

    Africa’s vast, untapped mineral resources present potential for new investments. The continent holds 30% of the world’s critical minerals (https://apo-opa.co/3ClkUGd) essential for the energy transition, including the largest global reserves of cobalt (in the Democratic Republic of Congo) and over 80% of the world’s platinum group metals in South Africa. The continent accounts for more than 44% of global diamond production, while its share of the gold market continues to grow, with markets such as Ghana, Mali and Zimbabwe ramping up production.

    Supportive Policies and Investor-Friendly Terms

    African governments are enhancing the investment climate within the mining industry by enacting new policies and modernizing fiscal terms to streamline processes and reduce delays in project rollouts. Zambia, for instance, introduced a New Mining Tax Regime in 2023, improving transparency and reducing tax evasion, as the country targets a copper production target of three million tons by 2032. Mali has also experienced increased investment flows following its 2023 Mining Code, with global players such as HummingGold, B2Gold and Ganfeng committing to new lithium and gold projects. Malawi has also taken steps to attract investments by launching its Mining Regulatory Authority in October 2024, supported by the Mines and Minerals Act of 2023.

    Improved Mining and Export Infrastructure

    African nations are enhancing cooperation with global partners to improve mining production and mineral transportation infrastructure. For example, investment firm Africa Finance Corporation has announced that the Zambia-Lobito Railway project will commence (https://apo-opa.co/3Q0RcJL) construction in early 2026, to facilitate the efficient and cost-effective transportation of critical minerals from East and Southern Africa to global markets. Upgrades to the Tanzania-Zambia Railway (https://apo-opa.co/3PXFeAE) and South Africa’s modernization of ports through freight operator, Transnet, are further enhancing the region’s mining investment prospects.

    Rich Mining History

    Africa’s established history as a global mining hub has fostered the development of key infrastructure and a skilled workforce that international mining firms rely on to meet global mineral demand. Mining remains a cornerstone of many African economies, attracting both traditional and emerging players keen to expand their operations and leverage the continent’s resources. With its rich deposits and ongoing improvements in policy and infrastructure, Africa maintains its position as a key investment destination for the global mining industry.

    African Mining Week will serve as a premier platform for exploring the full spectrum of mining opportunities across Africa. The event is held alongside the African Energy Week: Invest in African Energy 2025 conference (https://apo-opa.co/4htJMdI) from October 1 -3. in Cape Town. Sponsors, exhibitors and delegates can learn more by contacting sales@energycapitalpower.com

    MIL OSI Africa –

    January 31, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: SBM Offshore completes the Share Purchase Agreements with MISC Berhad

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Amsterdam, January 31, 2025

    SBM Offshore confirms it has completed the transactions related to the Share Purchase Agreements announced on September 6, 2024 with its partner MISC Berhad for:

    i)   the acquisition of MISC Berhad’s entire effective equity interest in the lease and operating entities related to the FPSO Espirito Santo in Brazil; and

    ii)   the full divestment to MISC Berhad of SBM Offshore’s effective equity interest in the lease and operating entities of the FPSO Kikeh in Malaysia.

    This transaction furthers SBM Offshore’s efforts to rationalize our portfolio to ‘maintain focus and excellence’ of our operations.        

    Corporate Profile

    SBM Offshore is the world’s deepwater ocean-infrastructure expert. Through the design, construction, installation, and operation of offshore floating facilities, we play a pivotal role in a just transition. By advancing our core, we deliver cleaner, more efficient energy production. By pioneering more, we unlock new markets within the blue economy. 
    More than 7,400 SBMers collaborate worldwide to deliver innovative solutions as a responsible partner towards a sustainable future, balancing ocean protection with progress.
    For further information, please visit our website at www.sbmoffshore.com.

    Financial Calendar   Date Year
    Full Year 2024 Earnings   February 20 2025
    Annual General Meeting   April 9 2025
    First Quarter 2025 Trading Update   May 15 2025
    Half Year 2025 Earnings   August 7 2025
    Third Quarter 2025 Trading Update   November 13 2025

    For further information, please contact:
    Investor Relations

    Wouter Holties
    Corporate Finance & Investor Relations Manager

    Media Relations

    Giampaolo Arghittu
    Head of External Relations

    Market Abuse Regulation
    This press release may contain inside information within the meaning of Article 7(1) of the EU Market Abuse Regulation.

    Disclaimer
    Some of the statements contained in this release that are not historical facts are statements of future expectations and other forward-looking statements based on management’s current views and assumptions and involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results, performance, or events to differ materially from those in such statements. These statements may be identified by words such as ‘expect’, ‘should’, ‘could’, ‘shall’ and similar expressions. Such forward-looking statements are subject to various risks and uncertainties. The principal risks which could affect the future operations of SBM Offshore N.V. are described in the ‘Impact, Risk and Opportunity Management’ section of the 2023 Annual Report.

    Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results and performance of the Company’s business may vary materially and adversely from the forward-looking statements described in this release. SBM Offshore does not intend and does not assume any obligation to update any industry information or forward-looking statements set forth in this release to reflect new information, subsequent events or otherwise.

    This release contains certain alternative performance measures (APMs) as defined by the ESMA guidelines which are not defined under IFRS. Further information on these APMs is included in the Half-Year Management Report accompanying the Half Year Earnings 2024 report, available on our website https://www.sbmoffshore.com/investors/financial-disclosures.

    Nothing in this release shall be deemed an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy, any securities. The companies in which SBM Offshore N.V. directly and indirectly owns investments are separate legal entities. In this release “SBM Offshore” and “SBM” are sometimes used for convenience where references are made to SBM Offshore N.V. and its subsidiaries in general. These expressions are also used where no useful purpose is served by identifying the particular company or companies.

    “SBM Offshore®“, the SBM logomark, “Fast4Ward®”, “emissionZERO®” and “F4W®” are proprietary marks owned by SBM Offshore.

    Attachment

    • SBM Offshore completes the Share Purchase Agreements with MISC Berhad

    The MIL Network –

    January 31, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Russia: Polytechnicians – International Experts in the Presidential Elections in Belarus

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University – Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University –

    Another presidential election was held in Belarus. The current head of the country, Alexander Lukashenko, won. The turnout was 85.7% of the total number of those included in the voting list. Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University is associated with the republic not only by decades of joint scientific and educational projects, but also by the historical unity of fraternal peoples, notes the rector of SPbPU Andrei Rudskoy. Andrei Ivanovich heads the expert council on science and education at the IPA CIS. The council’s activities have been noted at the highest level, and its experts are invited to interstate commissions.

    On behalf of the Rector of SPbPU, the Director of the Higher School of Jurisprudence and Forensic Science Dmitry Mokhorov (deputy of the Academic SPb Municipal Assembly, deputy chairman of the expert council on science and education at the IPA CIS) acted as a scientific expert in the mission of the monitoring group of the CIS IPA at the elections of the President of the Republic of Belarus.

    Interacting with those responsible for organizing the elections and residents of Belarus, Dmitry Mokhorov noted: “It is gratifying to see the hospitality with which Belarusians greet guests, and when they hear “Leningrad Polytechnic” (Peter’s Polytechnic), everyone congratulates them on the 81st anniversary of the liberation of Leningrad from the fascist blockade and the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Great Patriotic War. The warmth of the fraternal people, who have first-hand experience of the atrocities of fascism, fills communication with joy, and it becomes clear that Belarusians will not allow interference in the democratic development of their country. The holiday that election day has become for the Belarusian people has shown the true free will of an independent state — the Republic of Belarus.”

    Secretary General of the IPA CIS Council Dmitry Kobitsky noted that the mission included experienced observers – representatives of the parliaments of the CIS states and experts of the International Institute for Monitoring Democracy Development of the IPA CIS. Scientists and specialists, together with parliamentarians, carried out long-term and short-term monitoring of the elections.

    This made it possible to conduct a comparative analysis of the best practices and formulate decisions based on professional scientific findings, noted the coordinator of the CIS IPA monitoring group mission, Deputy Chairman of the Federation Council of the Russian Federation Konstantin Kosachev. He emphasized that over two decades, the CIS parliamentary institution has established itself not only as a normative and practical force, but also as a scientifically substantiated force. Thanks to this, it was possible to destroy the monopoly on election assessment that Western institutions had appropriated, imposing their point of view on everyone, politicizing observation and drawing conclusions based on the loyalty of the country and its leader.

    In our work, we are guided by the principles of respect for state sovereignty, impartiality, effective assistance, and non-interference in the internal affairs of states, which are enshrined in two basic documents for all of us: the Convention on the Standards of Democratic Elections in the CIS and the Declaration of the CIS Interparliamentary Assembly on the Principles of International Observation, the parliamentarian noted.

    International observers from the CIS Interparliamentary Assembly met with the Chairperson of the Council of the Republic of the National Assembly of Belarus Natalia Kochanova, the Chairperson of the House of Representatives of the National Assembly Igor Sergeyenko, the Chairman of the Central Electoral Commission Igor Karpenko, presidential candidates: the Chairman of the Republican Party of Labor and Justice Alexander Khizhnyak, the leader of the Communist Party of Belarus Sergei Syrankov, the Chairman of the Liberal Democratic Party of Belarus Oleg Gaidukevich, Anna Kanopatskaya and the authorized representative of candidate Alexander Lukashenko, the Chairman of the Federation of Trade Unions of Belarus Yuri Senko. All of them noted that Belarusian society has changed. Despite attempts at outside interference, everyone was focused on ensuring that the campaign was held without upheavals, threats and destabilization, in accordance with national and international law.

    On election day, observers visited 321 polling stations.

    We work in all regions of Belarus. Our work is a kind of “audit”, the result of which is the development and democratization of electoral processes, – said Dmitry Kobitsky.

    The Secretary General noted that the Secretariat is expanding cooperation with scientists from the CIS countries. This allows for increased expert support for the Assembly’s legislative work and serves to develop relations in the scientific circles of the Commonwealth countries. A memorandum of cooperation with the Belarusian Institute for Strategic Studies was also signed as part of the dialogue.

    Rector of SPbPU Andrei Rudskoy congratulated Belarusian partners on the successful completion of the presidential elections and expressed confidence that the elected president will work for the development of Belarus, strengthening friendship and cooperation in the region.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    January 31, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: MEXC Zero-Fee Event for European Traders: 108 Spot Pairs and All EUR Spot Trading Pairs

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VICTORIA, Seychelles, Jan. 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — MEXC, a leading global cryptocurrency exchange, is excited to launch a limited-time Zero-Fee Event for European traders. During this limited-time promotion, all EUR Spot trading pairs, as well as a total of 108 Spot trading pairs, will be offered with zero fees, providing exceptional trading opportunities and cost savings for the European cryptocurrency community.

    Event Details

    The Zero-Fee Event will run from January 23, 2025, to March 31, 2025. During this period, all EUR Spot trading pairs will have 0% maker and taker fees. This promotion is available to all MEXC users.

    In addition to EUR Spot pairs, MEXC is also offering zero fees for other trading pairs in Europe.
    MEXC offers a total of 108 Spot trading pairs, including:

    • 81 pairs with USDC
    • 5 pairs with USDT
    • 22 pairs with EUR

    MEXC will also offer 29 Futures trading pairs as part of the zero-fee event.

    User-Centered Benefits for European Traders

    According to the latest TokenInsight research report, MEXC demonstrated considerable growth and market presence in 2024, securing a spot among the top 6 in Spot trading and the top 5 in derivatives trading.

    The report reveals that MEXC’s market share in the Spot market increased by approximately 9%, reaching 11.6% compared to 2023. In the derivatives market, MEXC also achieved a 10.4% year-over-year growth in market share, the largest increase among major exchanges. This growth is fueled by MEXC’s low fees, exclusive trading events, and flexible token listing strategy.

    As Europe is a key market for MEXC, the platform is offering the Zero-Fee Event as a way to give back to European traders, helping them reduce trading costs and maximize their profit potential.

    Beyond this event, MEXC delivers four key advantages that have earned the trust of over 30 million users across 170+ countries:

    M: Most Trending Tokens
    MEXC has over 3,000 token listings and almost lists new tokens daily, offering users a wide range of options and the ability to stay on top of the latest market trends.

    E: Everyday Airdrops
    MEXC brings users frequent rewards and opportunities. In 2024 alone, the platform completed 2,293 airdrops, distributing over $136 million in rewards.

    X: Xtremely Low Fees
    MEXC offers highly competitive trading fees, allowing users to significantly reduce their costs compared to industry standards.

    C: Comprehensive Liquidity
    With deep market depth and high liquidity, MEXC ensures efficient and seamless execution of every transaction, even in volatile markets.

    MEXC states that it will continue to prioritize innovation and user experience, launching new tools and services that meet the needs of global traders, with the aim of making cryptocurrency trading simpler and more profitable for every trader.

    For more details on the event and its rules, please refer to the Event Announcement.

    About MEXC

    Founded in 2018, MEXC is committed to being “Your Easiest Way to Crypto”. Serving over 30 million users across 170+ countries, MEXC is known for its broad selection of trending tokens, frequent airdrop opportunities, and low trading fees. Our user-friendly platform is designed to support both new traders and experienced investors, offering secure and efficient access to digital assets. MEXC prioritizes simplicity and innovation, making crypto trading more accessible and rewarding.
    MEXC Official Website| X | Telegram |How to Sign Up on MEXC

    Risk Disclaimer:
    The information provided in this article about cryptocurrencies does not represent MEXC’s official stance or investment advice. Given the highly volatile nature of the cryptocurrency market, investors are encouraged to carefully evaluate market fluctuations, project fundamentals, and potential financial risks before making any trading decisions.

    Contact:
    Lucia Hu
    PR Manager
    lucia.hu@mexc.com

    Disclaimer: This content is provided by MEXC. The statements, views and opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the content provider. The information provided in this press release is not a solicitation for investment, nor is it intended as investment advice, financial advice, or trading advice. It is strongly recommended you practice due diligence, including consultation with a professional financial advisor, before investing in or trading cryptocurrency and securities. Please conduct your own research and invest at your own risk.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/9886c09c-dd1c-4df2-90f9-f0ebe65f2479

    The MIL Network –

    January 31, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Australia: New Consul-General to Toronto

    Source: Minister for Trade

    Today I am pleased to announce the appointment of Rachelle Jackson to lead an Australian diplomatic post in Canada.

    Ms Jackson has been appointed to the role of Consul-General and Trade and Investment Commissioner in Toronto, Canada.

    Ms Jackson has a wealth of experience in trade and investment policy having held multiple leadership roles at Austrade in Melbourne and Sydney, and as a Trade Commissioner in New York and San Francisco.

    Her appointment underscores the importance of Australia’s relationship with Canada, and will advance our trade and diplomatic interests, and drive opportunities for a continued and strong bilateral trading relationship.

    I congratulate Ms Jackson on her well-deserved appointment.

    I thank the outgoing Consul-General and Trade Commissioner Josh Riley for his time and successful efforts in the role.

    MIL OSI News –

    January 31, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: WOOD & Co Reinitiated Coverage of Šiaulių Bankas

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    31 January 2025. WOOD & Co, a leading regional investment bank in Emerging Europe, has reinitiated independent equity research coverage of Šiaulių Bankas (SAB1L). The initiation report includes an analysis suggesting a target price of EUR 0.96.

    WOOD & Company Financial Services teams, located in Warsaw, Prague, Bucharest, Bratislava, Milan and London are highly experienced, have deep roots in Emerging Europe, providing wide range of products and services for investors, including Equity Sales, Electronic Trading, DMA and FIX, Equity Structured Products, Equity Research and Equity Capital Markets.

    Šiaulių Bankas stock is also covered by Swedbank, Estonian investment research firm Enlight Research, Norwegian investment bank Norne Securities and Erste Group Research. The analysts’ evaluations are available to investors on Šiaulių Bankas IR website.

    If you would like to receive Šiaulių Bankas news for investors directly to your inbox, subscribe to our newsletter.

    Additional information: 
    Tomas Varenbergas 
    Head of Investment Management Division
    tomas.varenbergas@sb.lt

    The MIL Network –

    January 31, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: BW Energy: Fourth Quarter Results 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BW ENERGY FOURTH QUARTER RESULTS 2024

    HIGHLIGHTS

    •          Record Q4 EBITDA of USD 141.6 million, net profit of USD 56.8 million
    •          Full-year revenue of USD 0.8 billion (+57%), EBITDA of USD 457.4 million (+90%) and net profit of USD 165.9 million (+105%)
    •          Operational cash-flow of USD 117.7 million in the quarter
    •          Q4 gross production of 4.0 mmbbls with 3.1 mmbbls net to BW Energy
    •          Highest quarterly production since inception from the Dussafu licence
    •          ESP replacement program completed as planned with 8 producing Hibiscus / Ruche wells from early 2025
    •          Current gross production at Dussafu above 40,000 bbls/day
    •          Maintained a strong balance sheet with cash position of USD 221.8 million

    BW Energy, operator of the Dussafu Marin licence in Gabon and the Golfinho cluster offshore Brazil, reported a record quarterly EBITDA of USD 141.6 million for the fourth quarter of 2024. This was up from USD 130 million in the previous quarter on increased oil sales following all-time-high production in Gabon. The net production was 33,600 bbls/day, including the Tortue, Hibiscus, and Hibiscus South fields in the Dussafu licence (73.5% working interest or “WI”) and the Golfinho field (100% WI).

    Full-year 2024 net production was approximately 10.1 million barrels of oil, up 69% from 2023. EBITDA was USD 457.4 million (USD 241.0 million). The full-year figures are preliminary and unaudited. BW Energy will publish audited 2024 figures on 26 February 2025.

    “BW Energy delivers strong production growth, increased reserves and record financial performance in the fourth quarter and full year 2024 supported by new ESPs, successful appraisal wells and the completion of the Hibiscus / Ruche development,” said Carl K. Arnet, the CEO of BW Energy. “We have a pivotal 2025 ahead, executing on our strategy for growth and long-term value creation. Appraisal of the Bourdon structure in Gabon is ongoing, and we plan to sanction the Maromba development in Brazil in coming weeks. Then, in the second half we will drill the first Kudu appraisal in Namibia, a high impact well which may help unlock secure access to energy in a part of Southern Africa with unstable supply.”

    DUSSAFU
    BW Energy completed three liftings in the fourth quarter at an average realised price of USD 72.5/bbl. Net production was approximately 2.5 mmbbls of oil and the net sold volume, the basis for revenue recognition, was approximately 2.7 mmbbls including 97,500 bbls of DMO deliveries and 311,429 bbls of state profit oil with an under-lift position of 248,700 bbls at period-end.

    Net production from the Dussafu licence averaged ~27,300 bbls/day, an increase of 36% from the previous quarter. Operating cost (excluding royalties) decreased to USD 18.5/bbl from USD 20.5/bbl in the third quarter due to operational efficiencies and increased production. Further cost savings are expected as BW Energy is preparing to take over the operations of the BW Adolo FPSO during the first half of 2025.

    All ESP change outs were completed as planned and on 2 January 2025, Phase 1 of the Hibiscus / Ruche development was completed with eight producing wells, two more than planned at project sanction. 

    GOLFINHO
    Net production from the Golfinho field averaged ~6,400 bbls/day equivalent to a total production of 585,000 bbls in the quarter, up 17% from the previous quarter. A planned shutdown of a Petrobras gas plant restricted gaslift capacity for approximately 40 days, with only ESP wells producing. One lifting was carried out of ~500,000 bbls at a realised price of USD 73.5/bbl. Remaining inventory was approximately 440,500 bbls at the end of the period. Operating cost (excluding royalties) averaged USD 56.4/bbl barrel, down from 63.3/bbl in the third quarter, primarily due to higher production.

    OTHER ITEMS
    At 31 December 2024, BW Energy had a cash balance of USD 221.8 million, compared to USD 209.8 million at end-September. The increase reflects cash flow from operations, debt repayment and investments. The Company had a total drawn debt balance of USD 563 million including the MaBoMo lease, the Dussafu RBL, the Golfinho prepayment facility and bond debt.

    Production guidance for 2025 is between 11 and 12 mmbbls net to BW Energy. Full-year operating cost is expected to be USD 18 to 22/bbl (the basis for calculating unit operating cost has been revised from 2025 onwards to exclude royalties, tariffs, workovers, domestic market obligation purchases, production sharing costs, and incorporates the impact of IFRS 16 adjustments, primarily impacting Gabon operations). Net capital expenditures are expected at USD 260 to 285 million, including the appraisal well in Namibia. The capex guidance is excluding the Maromba development and the Golfinho Boosting project, both awaiting FID. 

    DEVELOPMENT PLANS
    In Gabon, the Bourdon appraisal prospect, targeting potential gross recoverable reserves of ~30 million barrels in Gamba and Dentale formations, was spud earlier this month and results are expected during the first quarter. At end-October, BW Energy (37.5% WI and operator) signed production sharing contracts (PSCs) for the Niosi Marin and Guduma Marin exploration blocks, which are adjacent to the Dussafu licence and significantly expands the resource base for infrastructure-led exploration. Planning for a 3D seismic campaign is ongoing. 

    Work on optimising Golfinho production continued to focus on stabilising FPSO performance and selected future well workovers. BW Energy is preparing to commence the Golfinho Boosting project to replace current gaslift with ESPs in two wells to increase production and production regularity from mid-2026.

    The Maromba development, targeting low-risk barrels in an oil-rich area with multiple producing assets, is progressing towards planned final investment decision (FID) next month based on the sustainable re-use of an FPSO and a jack-up with drilling capacity and dry trees. This enables a cost-efficient development with an investment budget of USD 1.2 billion and short pay-back time. Project financing is close to completion 

    In Namibia, BW Energy has sanctioned the drilling of an appraisal well targeting the Kharas Prospect northwest in the Kudu licence with planned start-up drilling operations in the third quarter. Long-lead items have been secured and the Company is reviewing offers for rig capacity. There is a close dialogue with other operators in the Orange Basin on exploring common use available resources. Development planning and concept selection for the Kudu gas-to-power project also continued with relevant stakeholders.

    REPORTS AND PRESENTATION
    Please find the fourth-quarter earnings presentation attached. The reports are also available at:

    www.bwenergy.no/investors/reports-and-presentations

     BW Energy will today hold a conference call followed by a Q&A hosted by CEO Carl K. Arnet, CFO Brice Morlot and COO Lin G. Espey at 15:00 CET.

    You can follow the presentation via webcast with supporting slides, available on:

    VIEWER REGISTRATION • Q4 2024

    Call-in information:

    Participants dial in numbers:

    DK: +45 7876 8490
    SE: +46 8 1241 0952
    NO: +47 2195 6342
    UK: +44 203 769 6819
    US: +1 646-787-0157
    Singapore: 65-3-1591097
    France: 33-1-81221259

    PIN code: 980877

    Please note, that if you follow the webcast via the above URL, you will experience a 30 second delay compared to the main conference call. The web page works best in an updated browser – Chrome is recommended.

    BW Energy will publish the audited 2024 annual report, the reserves report and the report on payments to governments on 26 February 2025.

    For further information, please contact:
    Brice Morlot, CFO BW Energy, +33.7.81.11.41.16
    ir@bwenergy.no

    About BW Energy:
    BW Energy is a growth E&P company with a differentiated strategy targeting proven offshore oil and gas reservoirs through low risk phased developments. The Company has access to existing production facilities to reduce time to first oil and cashflow with lower investments than traditional offshore developments. The Company’s assets are 73.5% of the producing Dussafu Marine licence offshore Gabon, 100% interest in the Golfinho and Camarupim fields, a 76.5% interest in the BM-ES-23 block, a 95% interest in the Maromba field in Brazil, a 95% interest in the Kudu field in Namibia, all operated by BW Energy. In addition, BW Energy holds approximately 6.6% of the common shares in Reconnaissance Energy Africa Ltd. and a 20% non-operating interest in the onshore Petroleum Exploration License 73 (“PEL 73”) in Namibia. Total net 2P+2C reserves and resources were 580 million barrels of oil equivalent at the start of 2024.

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

    Attachments

    • BWE Q4 2024
    • BWE earnings tables Q4 2024

    The MIL Network –

    January 31, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Change in the total number of shares and votes in Anoto

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Anoto Group AB (”Anoto”) has as previously announced carried out a directed share issue, a set-off issue, and a rights issue of ordinary shares, which has resulted in a changed number of shares and votes in Anoto.

    Through the directed share issue and the set-off issue, the number of shares and votes has increased by 125,043,750 and 230,636,107 respectively. Through the rights issue, the outcome of which was announced through a press release on 30 December 2024, the number of shares and votes has increased by 414,823,830.

    The total number of shares and votes in Anoto as of 31 January 2025 amounts to 1,102,362,753.

    This information is published in accordance with Chapter 4, Section 9 of the Swedish Financial Instruments Trading Act (SFS 1991:980). This information was submitted for publication on 31 January 2025, at 7 am CET. 

    For further information, please contact:
    Kevin Adeson, Chairman of the board of Anoto Group AB (publ)
    For more information about Anoto, please visit www.anoto.com or email ir@anoto.com
    Anoto Group AB (publ), Reg.No. 556532-3929, Flaggan 1165, SE-116 74 Stockholm

    About Anoto Group
    Anoto is a publicly held Swedish technology company known globally for innovation in the area of information-rich patterns and the optical recognition of those patterns. It is a lead-er in digital writing and drawing solutions, having historically used its proprietary technology to develop smartpens and related software. These smartpens enrich the daily lives of millions of people around the world. Anoto currently has three main business lines: Livescribe retail, Enterprise Forms and OEM. Anoto also holds a stake in Knowledge AI, a leading AI based education solution company. Anoto is traded on the Small Cap list of Nasdaq Stockholm under ANOT.

    Attachment

    • Anoto Press Release 31 January 2025 (SV)

    The MIL Network –

    January 31, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Australia: 27-2025: Scheduled Outage: Saturday 16 February to Sunday 16 February 2025 – BICON, EXDOC

    Source: Australia Government Statements – Agriculture

    31 January 2025

    Who does this notice affect?

    All clients required to use the Biosecurity Import Conditions System (BICON) during this planned maintenance period.

    All clients required to use the Export Documentation (EXDOC) system during this planned maintenance period.

    Information

    Due to scheduled infrastructure maintenance, there will be an outage to BICON and EXDOC from 23:59 Saturday 15 February to 05:00 Sunday 16 February 2025 (AEDT).

    Action

    …

    MIL OSI News –

    January 31, 2025
  • MIL-Evening Report: NZ- Kiribati fallout: A ‘Pacific way’ perspective on the Peters spat

    A NZ-born Kiribati member of Parliament, Ruth Cross Kwansing, has tried to bring in some Pacific common sense into the diplomatic tiff between her country and Aotearoa New Zealand. Her original title on her social media posting was “A storm in a teacup: Kiribati, New Zealand and a misunderstanding over diplomacy”.

    COMMENTARY: By Ruth Cross Kwansing

    We were polarised by the United States last week, but in the same way that a windscreen wiper distracts you from the rain, our Pacific news cycle and local coconut wireless became dominated by a whirlwind of speculation after New Zealand’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters announced a review of New Zealand’s aid to Kiribati.

    This followed what was perceived as a snub by our President Taneti Maamau.

    The New Zealand media, in its typical fashion, seized the opportunity to patronise Kiribati, and the familiar whispers about Chinese influence began to circulate.

    Amidst this media manufactured drama, I found myself reflecting on “that” recent experience which offered stark contrast to the geopolitical noise.

    We had the privilege of attending the ordination of a Catholic Priest in Onotoa, where the true spirit of Kiribati was exemplified in the splendour of simplicity. Despite limited resources, the island community, representing various faiths, came together to celebrate this sacred event with unparalleled joy, hilariousness and hospitality from silent hands that blessed you with love.

    Hands that built thatched huts for us to sleep in, wove mats, cooked food, made pillows and hung bananas in maneabas to provide for guests from all over Kiribati and Nauru. Our President, himself a Protestant, had prioritised and actively participated, embodying by example, the unity and peace that Bishop Simon Mani so eloquently spoke of.

    We laughed, we cried, and we felt the spirit of our loving God.

    Spirit of harmony
    That spirit of harmony and hope we carried from recent experiences felt shaken overnight by news of New Zealand’s potential aid withdrawal. Social media in Kiribati erupted with questions and concerns, fuelled by an article claiming that New Zealand was halting aid due to President Maamau “snubbing” of Deputy Prime Minister Peters.

    Importantly: President Maamau would never in a millennium intentionally “snub” New Zealand or any foreign minister. The reality is far more nuanced.

    At the end of 2024, President Maamau announced to his Cabinet Ministers that he would delegate international bilateral engagements to Vice-President Dr Teuea Toatu or other Ministers and Ambassadors appropriately. Thereby enabling him to focus intently on domestic matters, including the workplan for our national necessities outlined in the KV20 vision and 149 deliverables of his party manifesto.

    NZ’s Foreign Minister Winston Peters . . . his spat with Kiribati described as a “storm in a teacup”. Image: RNZ/Reece Baker

    While the Vice-President was prepared to receive the New Zealand delegation, it seems Minister Peters was insistent on meeting with the President himself, leading to the cancellation of his trip.

    This insistence on bypassing established protocol is not only unusual but also, well let’s just say it with as much love as possible: It’s disrespectful to Kiribati’s sovereignty.

    It is also worth noting that the Deputy Prime Minister of Australia recently visited Kiribati and engaged with the Vice-President and Cabinet Ministers without any such reluctance.

    New Zealand’s subsequent announcement of an aid review, including a potential threat to the $2 million funded RSE scheme, has understandably caused serious anxiety in Kiribati.

    Devastating impact
    The potential loss of funding for critical sectors like health, education, fisheries, economic development and climate resilience would of course have a devastating impact on our people.

    After committing $102 million between 2021-2024 these are major threats to public health where $20 million was invested in initiatives like rebuilding the Betio Hospital, training doctors, building clinics, NCD strategic planning and more, $10 million in education, $4 million in developing the fisheries sector, it’s an expansive and highly impactful list of critical support for capacity strengthening to our country.

    While New Zealand has every right to review its aid programme to Kiribati or any developing country, it is crucial that these kinds of decisions are based on genuine development processes and not used as a tool for political pressure.

    Linking Pacific aid to access to political leaders sets a questionable precedent and undermines the principles of partnership, mutual respect and “mana” that underpins the inextricably linked relationships between Pacific nations.

    The reference to potential impacts on I-Kiribati workers in New Zealand under the RSE scheme is particularly concerning. These hardworking individuals contribute significantly to the New Zealand economy in a mutually beneficial arrangement.

    We deserve to be treated with fairness and respect, not weaponised to cut at the heart of what drives our political motivations — providing for our people, who are providing for our children.

    Despite this unfortunate situation, I believe that dialogue and understanding along with truth and love will prevail.

    Greater humility needed
    In the spirit of the “effectiveness, inclusiveness, resilience, and sustainability” that upholds New Zealand’s own development principles, we should all revisit this issue with greater humility and a commitment to resolving such misunderstandings.

    As a New Zealand-born, Australian/Tuvaluan, I-Kiribati politician representing the largest constituency in Kiribati, I have zero pride or ego and will never be too proud to beg for the needs of the people I serve, who placed their faith in a government that would put them first.

    We would love to host Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters and a New Zealand government delegation in Kiribati, and we are indescribably grateful for the kinds of support provided since we gained independence in 1979. Our history stretches back even further than that, when New Zealand’s agricultural industry was nourished by phosphate from Banaba, and we continue to treasure the intertwined links between our nations.

    Let us prioritise cooperation and mutual respect over ego and political posturing. Let’s drink fresh coconuts and eat raw fish together and talk about how we can change the world by changing ourselves first.

    The “tea party” of Pacific partnership must continue to strengthen, and deepen, ESPECIALLY when challenged to overcome misunderstandings. It should always be one where Pacific voices are heard and respected lovingly, while we work towards a collective vision of health, peace and prosperity for all.

    But if development diplomacy ever fails, we’ll remember that I-Kiribati people are some of the most determined and resilient on this planet. Our ancestors navigated to these “isolated isles of the Pacific” surrounded by 3.5 million km of ocean and found “Tungaru” which means “a place of JOY”.

    We arrived in this world with nothing, and we’ll leave it with nothing, and we get to live our whole lives not feeling sorry for ourselves in this island paradise of ours, this place of joy, where we are wealthy in ways that money cannot buy.

    We will survive

    Ruth Maryanne Cross Kwansing was elected an independent member of Parliament in Kiribati in 2024. She later joined the Tobwaan Kiribati Party.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

    January 31, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: Fischer Announces Appropriations Subcommittee Appointments

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nebraska Deb Fischer
    Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), announced her subcommittee appointments for the Senate Appropriations Committee, which helps shape the federal government’s spending policies. This year, Senator Fischer has added a sixth subcommittee: Financial Services and General Government.
    “For the past two years, my position on the Appropriations Committee has given Nebraska a seat at the table in allocating precious taxpayer dollars. These key subcommittee appointments for the 119th Congress will give Nebraskans continued input into the programs and agencies that directly impact our state. Particularly as a member of the Agriculture and Military Construction subcommittees, I look forward to advocating for Nebraska’s number one industry and our critical military facilities like Offutt Air Force Base,” said Senator Fischer.
    Senator Fischer will serve on the following Appropriations Subcommittees: 
    Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies
    Has jurisdiction over the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

    Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies
    Has jurisdiction over U.S. Department of Defense facilities and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.

    Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies
    Has jurisdiction over the U.S. Department of the Interior and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

    Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies
    Has jurisdiction over the U.S. Department of Commerce and U.S. Department of Justice.

    Legislative Branch
    Has jurisdiction over the U.S. Capitol Police, Architect of the Capitol, Congressional Budget Office, and Library of Congress.

    Financial Services and General Government
    Has jurisdiction over several federal agencies, including the U.S. Department of Treasury, Small Business Administration, Federal Trade Commission, and the Securities and Exchange Commission. Click here for the full list of federal agencies.

    Senator Fischer will continue to serve on the Senate Armed Services Committee; the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee; and the Senate Agriculture Committee; the Senate Rules Committee; and the Senate Select Committee on Ethics.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 31, 2025
  • MIL-OSI China: China’s exports to over 160 countries, regions achieve growth in 2024

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    China’s exports to over 160 countries and regions saw growth in 2024, according to the General Administration of Customs (GAC).

    The country’s exports grew 7.1 percent year on year, reaching 25.45 trillion yuan (about 3.55 trillion U.S. dollars) last year, marking the eighth consecutive year of growth, according to the latest data released by the GAC.

    Exports to Brazil, the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia increased by 23.3 percent, 19.2 percent and 18.2 percent year on year, respectively. Exports to ASEAN countries and nations participating in the Belt and Road Initiative grew by 13.4 percent and 9.6 percent, respectively. Meanwhile, exports to traditional markets, such as the European Union and the United States, rose by 4.3 percent and 6.1 percent, respectively.

    Lyu Daliang, a GAC official, said that despite growing uncertainties and challenges, China’s exports — characterized by a wide range of products — are expected to remain resilient and dynamic, supported by both incremental and existing policies. 

    MIL OSI China News –

    January 31, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: expert reaction to NICE final draft guidance on exagamglogene autotemcel (exa-cel) for severe sickle cell disease

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    January 31, 2025

    Scientists comment on final draft guidance from NICE on the use of exagamglogene autotemcel (exa-cel) for severe sickle cell disease. 

    Dr Diana Hernandez, director of immune and advanced therapies at UK stem cell charity Anthony Nolan, said:

    “Today’s decision from NICE to grant access, on the NHS, to the UK’s first ever CRISPR-based therapy for some patients with sickle cell disease, represents a leap forward in the treatment of this debilitating and life-threatening condition. Sickle cell disease is caused by abnormally shaped red blood cells that can block blood vessels, causing fatigue, chronic pain and increased risk of infection. By modifying the DNA of the patient’s own stem cells so they produce healthy red blood cells, the treatment provides a ‘functional cure’ for people who otherwise have limited options.

    “This treatment offers hope to thousands of patients in the UK, the majority of whom are from African and African-Caribbean backgrounds and have experienced years of feeling ignored, and is a glimpse into the exciting possibilities of gene therapies to treat diseases that have previously been considered incurable.”

    Dr Alena Pance, Senior Lecturer in Genetics, University of Hertfordshire, said:

    “Casgevy (exagamglogene autotemcel) is based on the innovative gene-editing tool CRISPR, which won its inventors the Nobel Prize in 2020

    “This approach is a great medical advancement because gene-editing may represent a possible cure rather than a treatment of this inherited genetic disease and stem cell technology makes it possible to use patient-specific cells which avoid immunological issues.

    “The background is that sickle cell disease is caused by mutation of one of the proteins that form haemoglobin. This is the main component of red blood cells that transports oxygen around the body. In adulthood, it consists of 4 globin proteins, 2 alpha and 2 beta, that form a tetramer with an iron core which binds the oxygen. During development however, the haemoglobin in the foetus is made with gamma globin instead of beta globin. This is because Gamma globin has higher affinity for oxygen, which is less abundant in the womb. At birth, there is a switch that silences Gamma globin which is no longer made and induces Beta globin to be made instead.

    “When Beta globin is mutated long inflexible chains of haemoglobin form, called sickle haemoglobin that leads to a change in the morphology of the red blood cells which also become stiff and get stuck in small capillaries. This causes pain and loss of red blood cells or anaemia, which increases in situations of high need or use of oxygen, such as exercise or high altitude.

    “What this therapy does is to switch off the factor that silences Gamma globin so that it can be produced in the red blood cells and substitute the faulty Beta globin. Because it is a blood disease, the gene-editing can be performed in the stem cells from the bone marrow from which all the cells in the blood originate. This means that the stem cells are extracted from the patient, modified and expanded in the lab and then put back into the patient where they will be able to reconstitute the blood. As a consequence, there is no immunological difference between the modified cells and the patient necessitating immunosuppressing medication for life and once the modified stem cells establish themselves in the bone marrow of the patient, they can repopulate the bone marrow and produce Gamma globin red blood cells technically for ever. An additional advantage this strategy has is that because it does not aim to correct the mutation (fix the faulty beta globin) it can be generally applied not just to sickle cell disease but also to beta-thalassemia. This is because there is a wide range of mutations in the beta globin gene and so fixing it would become patient-specific which would be even more costly and difficult.”

    “There are some set backs to this approach and it is certain that the technology will continue improving, but at this moment in time, it is the greatest advance seen so far in the application of these technologies to health.”

    Prof Ewan Birney, Deputy Director General of the European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL) and Director of EMBL’s European Bioinformatics Institute (EMBL-EBI), said:

    “This is an exciting development for practical CRISPR based gene therapy. After impressive clinical trials worldwide, the technology provides a way for certain sickle cell disease individuals to have a far better life. This CRISPR based therapy uses an interesting molecular mechanism, where the gene therapy acts on a different, related gene (fetal haemoglobin), boosting this gene’s expression in adulthood which mitigates the effect of the sickle cell changed adult haemoglobin. The mechanism was discovered by genetic studies in particular from cohorts in Sub-Saharan Africa and people with recent African ancestries.

    “Looking ahead, this technology has the potential to treat many other rare diseases with precise genetic diagnoses.”

     

    Prof Felicity Gavins, Professor of Pharmacology, Brunel University of London, said:

    “The approval of Exa-cel for NHS use in England is a very exciting moment, not only because this marks the first approval of a CRISPR-based gene therapy for SCD in the NHS, but also because it offers a potentially curative treatment for eligible patients. By addressing the genetic cause of SCD, Exa-cel reduces or eliminates vaso-occlusive crises (VOCs), decreases hospitalisations, and improves quality of life.

    “Of the 15,000 people in England with SCD, approximately 1,750 may be eligible for Exa-cel treatment. The therapy works by editing the patient’s BCL11A gene to reactivate fetal haemoglobin production, preventing red blood cells from sickling and blocking blood flow which cause VOCs and disease complications.

    “However, while Exa-cel is a breakthrough, it is not a cure for all SCD patients, and uncertainties remain about its long-term effectiveness, safety and accessibility. It is critical to continue funding research to develop treatment that benefit the broader SCD population and address remaining challenges in care.”

     

    Professor Laurence D. Hurst, Professor of Evolutionary Genetics, The Milner Centre for Evolution, University of Bath, said:

    “The recommendation of exa-cel (alias Casgevy, alias Exagamglogene autotemcel) by NICE is a potential step change for sufferers (and their carers) of a common genetic disorder, sickle cell disease (SCD) that particularly affects UK individuals with a Caribbean and Black African ancestry. It will come as a very welcome reversal of a prior draft recommendation (March 2024) by many within the at-risk communities. 

    “Part of NICE’s recommendation was based on the observation that the disorder is especially prevent in ethnic minority backgrounds and seeks to redress inequality in health access. This is a good news day for sufferers of severe SCD and for these communities.”

    Why is there a need for a “cure” for sickle cell disease?

    “Current treatments may be considered the equivalent of plastering over a wound repeatedly, rather than getting to the cause of the wound and curing it.

    “SCD patients need regular blood transfusions and with that treatment to absorb excess iron. Some qualify for a drug therapy, Hydroxycarbamide, also used as in cancer chemotherapy, that reduces VOC rates. This increases rate of production of foetal globin and reduces red cell stickiness. There are very few treatments to stop symptoms and what is available often has intolerable side effects. A further issue is that while treatments may reduce VOC frequency they tend to increase pain associated with each VOC. They do not address the underlying cause.” 

    “Stem cell transfusion – the best current “cure” – is potentially different as you are replacing the cells that make red blood cells in the patient with those from a donor who doesn’t have SCD.  However, only 15% of patients have a potential donor and this treatment can lead to immune rejection (graft versus host disease).

    “Exa-cel is potentially a life-long cure – the patients can make their own non SCD inducing blood, thus immune rejection should not be an issue.”

    How does this CRISPR therapy work?

    “For many single gene genetic disorders gene therapy is now being actively researched and, in some cases, making it to clinic.  To date the successful ones, have taken the strategy of adding in a copy of the properly functioning version of the gene (as in recent gene therapies for haemophilia A and B).  Exa-cel is different as it involves “editing” your own DNA, not adding genes. 

    “It relies on the fact that as foetuses our haemoglobin was different. Indeed, foetal haemoglobin is a little better than the adult version at carrying oxygen.  Adult haemoglobin consists of two beta globins and two alpha globins.  In foetuses we use gamma globin instead of beta globin.  Shortly after birth a protein BCL11A helps in the switch from foetal to adult haemoglobin, from gamma to beta.  Exa-cel edits the gene for BCL11A preventing it from being made, and in so doing forces the cells to upregulate gamma globin so making more foetal haemoglobin.

    “It does this by editing a part of the switch that turns the BCL11A gene on in developing blood cells.  This causes BCL11A to not be made which in turn allows gamma globin to be produced, as BCL11A switches gamma globin off.   As such – it is a CRISPR mediated gene edit – it is unlike the standard mode of gene therapy which involves addition of the correct gene. The treatment involve removing relevant cells from the patient, editing in the lab and replacing them into the patient.

    “Given its mode of action it is a potential therapy for any genetic disease involving badly functioning beta-globin, notably sickle cell disease and beta thalassemia.

    “Importantly it is also likely that making gamma globin is safe – it is our own protein.  In addition, most of us fail to fully inactivate the foetal/gamma version and so well all have a bit of gamma globin.  Indeed, with conditions like SCD, the higher the level of gamma globin the lesser the symptoms.”

    The therapy is life transforming

    “The evidence for the efficacy and safety of Casgevy for SCD is good, although sample numbers are low. Base line the patients had 2.6 VOCs per year. Of 43 patients 29 were followed long enough. 28 of 29 had no VOCs for at least a year. None were hospitalised.

    “There is a further issue, however, that it can be difficult to collect cells in patients with SCD and some of those not followed up were because the treatment couldn’t be given.

    What is the new decision?

    “This new decision is not a statement about safety and efficacy.  The therapy has been approved for use in the UK (late 2023), EU (spring 2024) and USA (late 2023) on safety and efficacy grounds. What is new is that NICE now recommends funding this with “managed access*” via the NHS as it is deemed adequately cost effective (or rather it was happy with the high level of uncertainty on cost effectiveness given the circumstances).  This is a reversal of its prior draft recommendation in March 2024.

    “It is restricted to those for whom a stem cell transplant donor cannot be found and with severe SCD ie recurrent VOCs meaning 2 or more in the prior 2 years.

    “The defence for the opening of access was based on the health inequalities faced by people with SCD, the technology being innovative and the fact that prior decision had failed to capture the quality of life of the carers.

    “Earlier this year NICE approved the same therapy for beta thalassemia -also owing to beta glogin issues- for a restricted number of patients.”

    What does the treatment cost?

    “The treatment is a one-off procedure. The headline cost per treatment £1,651,000 but the actual cost to the NHS is a commercial secret.”

    What are the uncertainties?

    “There are two main uncertainties:

    “First, being a new treatment how long it will last is unknown. Why the treatment might revert is unclear but only time will tell.

    “The second is whether there are downstream side effects.  CRISPR as an application for example involves send a molecule to cut DNA at a designated site in our DNA.  Sometimes, however, the cuts also happen at sites we didn’t want to have cut. These are so-called “off-target” effects.  The early data from the research team behind found no evidence for such off-target effects but they remain a possibility. More classical forms of gene therapy – involving adding genes to our DNA – have been associated with induction of cancer and so the field is naturally cautious.”

     

    What is SCD?

    “Sickle cell disease is a genetic disease associated with a different form of a gene and its derived protein that make up part of the molecular that transports oxygen from the lungs to the body, heamoglobin, in our red blood cells.  The affected gene/protein is “beta globin”.

    “Sufferers have pain 4 days out of every seven and unpredictable episodes of severe pain, termed vaso-occlusive crises [VOCs] that can require hospitalization.  Over 2 years about 2/3 of sufferers need emergency care 2 to 3 times and about a quarter spend 1-2 weeks in hospital.  Higher rates of both define severe SCD. It causes ongoing anaemia (lack of red blood cells) and widespread organ damage. Even with access to medical support, life expectancy is typically around 50 years.”

    Why is SCD so prevalent in ethnic minorities?

    “Globally locations with endemic malaria have higher rates of the disorder.  This is because individuals with a mix of beta globin genes (we all have two versions, one inherited from mother one from father) are less likely to die young from malaria.  This selection favouring individuals with a mix of beta-globins maintains the two versions of the beta globin gene at relatively high frequencies.  However, it also means that the rate at which individuals will inherit two of the SCD causing version of the gene is also high – if mum and dad were both carriers a quarter of their kids will get SCD.  Having two SCD versions is needed for the full blown SCD. In sub-Saharan Africa up to 1-3% of the population suffer SCD making it a remarkably prevalent genetic disease.”

    Professor David Rees, Professor of Paediatric Sickle Cell Disease, King’s College London, said:

    “It is encouraging that Exa-cel has been approved for use to treat patients with sickle cell disease in England, particularly as it is based on discoveries made at King’s College London by Dr Stephan Menzel and Professor Swee Lay Thein. The treatment uses CRISPR gene editing technology to increase the level of fetal haemoglobin in people with sickle cell disease, which has a major effect in reducing the severity of the condition. The treatment is not curative in the traditional sense of the word, in that the patients still have some features of sickle cell disease, but early studies suggest that successfully treated patients have very few symptoms of the condition, at least in the medium term.

    “Exa-cel has been approved for patients getting episodes of acute pain over the age of 12 years, and potentially more than 5000 people with sickle cell disease may be eligible for this in the UK. However, it is difficult to know how many people will actually benefit, because of the very high cost and potential toxicity of the treatment. Exa-cel treatment still requires very strong chemotherapy, similar to having a bone marrow transplant, which causes problems with reduced fertility and sometimes more serious complications, and it seems likely that it will most benefit patients with severe and progressive problems caused by sickle cell disease.

    “Despite these concerns, the availability of Exa-cel is a major advance and offers a really important new treatment option for some patients with sickle cell disease. Excitingly, advances in gene editing are happening very rapidly at the moment and it seems likely that cheaper, safer and more effective forms of gene editing will emerge for sickle cell disease over the coming years, offering the prospect of a curative treatment which is universally applicable, even in low income countries where the majority of patients live.”

    NICE’s final draft guidance on Exagamglogene autotemcel for treating severe sickle cell disease in people 12 years and over was published at 00:01 UK time on Friday 31 January 2025. 

    Declared interests

    Professor David Rees: “I don’t think I have any significant conflicts of interest.”

    Prof Ewan Birney: No conflict of interest.

    Dr Alena Pance: No conflicts.

    For all other experts, no response to our request for DOIs was received.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    January 31, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Alpine Banks of Colorado announces financial results for fourth quarter and year end 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    GLENWOOD SPRINGS, Colo., Jan. 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Alpine Banks of Colorado (OTCQX: ALPIB) (“Alpine” or the “Company”), the holding company for Alpine Bank (the “Bank”), today announced results (unaudited) for the fourth quarter and year ended December 31, 2024. The Company reported net income of $13.8 million, or $128.92 per basic Class A common share and $0.86 per basic Class B common share, for fourth quarter 2024.

    Highlights in fourth quarter 2024 and the year ended December 31, 2024, include:

    • Basic earnings per Class A common share increased 1.4%, or $1.76, during fourth quarter 2024.
    • Basic earnings per Class A common share decreased 12.0%, or $63.32, during the 12 months ended December 31, 2024.
    • Basic earnings per Class B common share increased 1.4%, or $0.01, during fourth quarter 2024.
    • Basic earnings per Class B common share increased 12.0%, or $0.42, during the 12 months ended December 31, 2024.
    • Net interest margin for fourth quarter 2024 was 3.18%, compared to 2.98% in third quarter 2024, and 2.84% in fourth quarter 2023.

    “The fourth quarter of 2024 continued a positive trend of growing customer-based deposits at a lower cost,” said Glen Jammaron, Alpine Banks of Colorado President and Vice Chairman. “During 2024, Alpine grew customer deposits by 7.9% while simultaneously reducing brokered deposits by over 50%. Deposit interest expense decreased by over 10% in fourth quarter 2024, leading the way to a 20-basis point improvement in our net interest margin from third quarter 2024 to fourth quarter 2024. The full team at Alpine looks forward to continued success in 2025.”

    Net Income
    Net income for fourth quarter 2024 and third quarter 2024 was $13.8 million and $13.6 million, respectively. Interest income increased $0.2 million in fourth quarter 2024 compared to third quarter 2024, primarily due to increases in yields and volumes in the securities portfolio, increased rates on due from banks and increased volume in the loan portfolio. These increases were slightly offset by decreased yields on the loan portfolio and decreased balances in due from banks. Interest expense decreased $2.8 million in fourth quarter 2024 compared to third quarter 2024, primarily due to decreased interest rates on the deposit portfolio and the Company’s trust preferred securities. Noninterest income decreased $0.5 million in fourth quarter 2024 compared to third quarter 2024, primarily due to decreases in other income partially offset by increases in earnings on life insurance. Noninterest expense increased $2.2 million in fourth quarter 2024 compared to third quarter 2024, due to increases in other expenses, salary and employee benefit expenses and furniture and fixture expenses slightly offset by decreases in occupancy expenses. A provision for loan losses of $1.5 million was recorded in fourth quarter 2024 compared to a $1.2 million provision recorded in third quarter 2024.

    Net income for the twelve months ended December 31, 2024, and 2023, was $49.7 million and $57.0 million, respectively. Interest income increased $23.4 million in 2024 compared to 2023, primarily due to increases in volume in the loan portfolio and balances due from banks, along with increases in yields on the loan portfolio, the securities portfolio, and balances due from banks. These increases were slightly offset by a decrease in volume in the securities portfolio. Interest expense increased $31.6 million in 2024 compared to 2023, primarily due to increases in costs on the Company’s trust preferred securities, other borrowings, and cost of deposits, along with increases in volume in deposit balances. These increases were partially offset by a decrease in the volume of other borrowings. Noninterest income increased $4.0 million in 2024 compared to 2023, primarily due to increases in earnings on bank-owned life insurance, service charges on deposit accounts and other income. Noninterest expense increased $6.1 million in 2024 compared to 2023, due to increases in salary and employee benefit expenses and occupancy expenses. These increases were partially offset by decreases in furniture and fixture expenses and other expenses. Provision for loan losses decreased $1.5 million in 2024 compared to 2023 due to loan portfolio declines and a small volume of loan charge-offs.

    Net interest margin increased from 2.98% to 3.18% from third quarter 2024 to fourth quarter 2024. Net interest margin for the twelve months ended December 31, 2024, and 2023, was 2.96% and 3.09%. respectively.

    Assets
    Total assets decreased $53.7 million, or 0.8%, to $6.52 billion as of December 31, 2024, compared to September 30, 2024, primarily due to decreased cash and due from banks and investment securities balances, partially offset by increased loans receivable. Total assets increased $105.4 million, or 1.6%, from December 31, 2023, to December 31, 2024. The Alpine Bank Wealth Management* division had assets under management of $1.37 billion on December 31, 2024, an increase of 19.0% compared to $1.15 billion on December 31, 2023.

    Loans
    Loans outstanding as of December 31, 2024, totaled $4.0 billion. The loan portfolio increased $28.9 million, or 0.7%, during fourth quarter 2024 compared to September 30, 2024. This increase was driven by a $30.5 million increase in residential real estate loans, a $22.2 million increase in commercial real estate loans, a $2.4 million increase in consumer loans and a $0.2 million increase in other loans, partially offset by a $20.4 million decrease in commercial and industrial loans and a $5.5 million decrease in real estate construction loans.

    Loans outstanding as of December 31, 2024, reflected an increase of $13.6 million, or 0.3%, compared to loans outstanding of $4.0 billion on December 31, 2023. This increase was driven by a $56.7 million increase in residential real estate loans, a $26.1 million increase in commercial real estate loans, a $7.6 million increase in commercial and industrial loans, a $6.0 million increase in consumer loans and a $0.4 million increase in other loans partially offset by a $83.0 million decrease in real estate construction loans.

    Deposits
    Total deposits decreased $47.1 million, or 0.8%, to $5.8 billion during fourth quarter 2024 compared to September 30, 2024, primarily due to a $46.8 million decrease in demand deposits and a $92.6 million decrease in certificate of deposit accounts. This decrease was partially offset by a $58.9 million increase in money fund accounts, and a $34.2 million increase in interest-bearing checking accounts. Brokered certificates of deposit decreased 25.9% from $330.7 million on September 30, 2024, to $245.0 million on December 31, 2024. Noninterest-bearing demand accounts comprised 30.2% of all deposits on December 31, 2024, compared to 30.7% on September 30, 2024.

    Total deposits of $5.8 billion on December 31, 2024, reflected an increase of $121.5 million, or 2.1%, compared to total deposits of $5.7 billion on December 31, 2023. This increase was due to a $321.9 million increase in money market accounts and an $11.1 million increase in demand deposits, partially offset by a $180.4 million decrease in certificate of deposit accounts, an $8.0 million decrease in interest-bearing checking accounts, and a $23.0 million decrease in savings accounts. Brokered certificates of deposit decreased 53.9% from $531.0 million on December 31, 2023, to $245.0 million on December 31, 2024. Noninterest-bearing demand accounts comprised 30.2% of all deposits on December 31, 2024, compared to 30.6% on December 31, 2023.

    Capital
    The Bank continues to be designated as a “well capitalized” institution as its capital ratios exceed the minimum requirements for this designation. As of December 31, 2024, the Bank’s Tier 1 Leverage Ratio was 9.75%, Tier 1 Risk-Based Capital Ratio was 14.22%, and Total Risk-Based Capital Ratio was 15.37%. On a consolidated basis, the Company’s Tier 1 Leverage Ratio was 9.41%, Tier 1 Risk-Based Capital Ratio was 13.72%, and Total Risk-Based Capital Ratio was 15.98% as of December 31, 2024.

    Book value per share on December 31, 2024, was $4,740.61 per Class A common share and $31.60 per Class B common share, a decrease of $46.96 per Class A common share and a decrease of $0.31 per Class B common share from September 30, 2024, respectively.

    Each Class A common share is entitled to one vote per share. Except as otherwise provided by the Colorado Business Corporation Act, each Class B common share has no voting rights.

    Dividends
    Each Class B common share has dividend and distribution rights equal to one-one hundred and fiftieth (1/150th) of such rights of one Class A common share. Therefore, each one Class A common share is equivalent to 150 Class B common shares for purposes of the payment of dividends.

    During fourth quarter 2024, the Company paid cash dividends of $30.00 per Class A common share and $0.20 per Class B common share. On January 9, 2025, the Company declared cash dividends of $31.50 per Class A common share and $0.21 per Class B common share payable on January 27, 2025, to shareholders of record on January 20, 2025.

    About Alpine Banks of Colorado
    Alpine Banks of Colorado, through its wholly owned subsidiary Alpine Bank, is a $6.5 billion, independent, employee-owned organization founded in 1973 with headquarters in Glenwood Springs, Colorado. Alpine Bank employs 890 people and serves 170,000 customers with personal, business, wealth management*, mortgage, and electronic banking services across Colorado’s Western Slope, mountains and Front Range. Alpine Bank has a five-star rating – meaning it has earned a superior performance classification – from BauerFinancial, an independent organization that analyzes and rates the performance of financial institutions in the United States. Shares of the Class B non-voting common stock of Alpine Banks of Colorado trade under the symbol “ALPIB” on the OTCQX® Best Market. Learn more at www.alpinebank.com.

    *Alpine Bank Wealth Management services are not FDIC insured, may lose value, and are not guaranteed by the Bank.

    Contacts: Glen Jammaron
    President and Vice Chairman
    Alpine Banks of Colorado
    2200 Grand Avenue
    Glenwood Springs, CO 81601
    (970) 384-3266
    Eric A. Gardey
    Chief Financial Officer
    Alpine Banks of Colorado
    2200 Grand Avenue
    Glenwood Springs, CO 81601
    (970) 384-3257
         

    A note about forward-looking statements
    This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements can be identified by words such as “anticipates,” “intends,” “plans,” “seeks,” “reflects,” “believes,” “can,” “would,” “should,” “will,” “estimates,” “looks forward to,” “continues,” “expects” and similar references to future periods. Examples of forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements we make regarding our evaluation of macro-environment risks, Federal Reserve rate management, and trends reflecting things such as regulatory capital standards and adequacy. 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, they are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks and changes in circumstances that are difficult to predict. Our actual results may differ materially from those contemplated by the forward-looking statements. We caution you therefore against relying on any of these forward- looking statements. They are neither statements of historical fact nor guarantees or assurances of future performance. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statement include, but are not limited to:

    • The ability to attract new deposits and loans;
    • Demand for financial services in our market areas;
    • Competitive market-pricing factors;
    • Changes in assumptions underlying the establishment of allowances for loan losses and other estimates;
    • Effects of future economic, business and market conditions, including higher inflation;
    • Adverse effects of public health events, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, including governmental and societal responses;
    • Deterioration in economic conditions that could result in increased loan losses;
    • Actions by competitors and other market participants that could have an adverse impact on expected performance;
    • Risks associated with concentrations in real estate-related loans;
    • Risks inherent in making loans, such as repayment risks and fluctuating collateral values;
    • Market interest rate volatility, including changes to the federal funds rate;
    • Stability of funding sources and continued availability of borrowings;
    • Geopolitical events, including acts of war, international hostilities and terrorist activities;
    • Assumptions and estimates used in applying critical accounting policies and modeling, including under the CECL model, which may prove unreliable, inaccurate, or not predictive of actual results;
    • Actions of government regulators, including potential future changes in the target range for the federal funds rate by the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve;
    • Sale of investment securities in a loss position before their value recovers, including as a result of asset liability management strategies or in response to liquidity needs;
    • Any increases in FDIC assessments;
    • Risks associated with potential cybersecurity incidents, data breaches or failures of key information technology systems;
    • The ability to maintain adequate liquidity and regulatory capital, and comply with evolving federal and state banking regulations;
    • Changes in legal or regulatory requirements or the results of regulatory examinations that could restrict growth;
    • The ability to recruit and retain key management and staff;
    • The ability to raise capital or incur debt on reasonable terms; and
    • Effectiveness of legislation and regulatory efforts to help the U.S. and global financial markets.

    There are many factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated by forward-looking statements. Any forward-looking statement made by us in this press release or in any subsequent written or oral statements attributable to the Company are expressly qualified in their entirety by the cautionary statements above. 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 update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as may be required by law.

    Key Financial Measures

    The attached tables highlight the Company’s key financial measures for the periods indicated (unaudited).

    Alpine Banks of Colorado Consolidated Financial Statements 12.31.2024

    The MIL Network –

    January 31, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Baker Hughes Announces Fourth-Quarter and Full-Year 2024 Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Fourth-quarter highlights

    • Orders of $7.5 billion, including $3.8 billion of IET orders.
    • RPO of $33.1 billion, including IET RPO of $30.1 billion.
    • Revenue of $7.4 billion, up 8% year-over-year.
    • GAAP diluted EPS of $1.18 and adjusted diluted EPS* of $0.70.
    • Adjusted EBITDA* of $1,310 million, up 20% year-over-year.
    • Cash flows from operating activities of $1,189 million and free cash flow* of $894 million.

    Full-year highlights

    • Orders of $28.2 billion, including $13.0 billion of IET orders.
    • Revenue of $27.8 billion, up 9% year-over-year.
    • Attributable net income of $2,979 million.
    • GAAP diluted EPS of $2.98 and adjusted diluted EPS* of $2.35.
    • Adjusted EBITDA* of $4,591 million, up 22% year-over-year.
    • Cash flows from operating activities of $3,332 million and free cash flow* of $2,257 million.
    • Returns to shareholders of $1,320 million, including $484 million of share repurchases.

    HOUSTON and LONDON, Jan. 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Baker Hughes Company (Nasdaq: BKR) (“Baker Hughes” or the “Company”) announced results today for the fourth-quarter and full-year 2024.

    “2024 proved to be a momentous year for Baker Hughes. We closed out the year with exceptional fourth-quarter results, setting new quarterly and annual records for revenue, free cash flow and our adjusted measures of EPS, EBITDA, and EBITDA margin. Our strategy to drive profitable growth and continuous margin improvement is working. Looking forward, we will continue our journey to transform the Company, and we expect 2025 to demonstrate another strong year of EBITDA growth, led by our IET segment,” said Lorenzo Simonelli, Baker Hughes Chairman and Chief Executive Officer.

    “IET booked $3.8 billion of orders in the fourth quarter, supported by strong LNG orders and another gas infrastructure award. Including this strong end to the year, 2024 orders totaled $13 billion, the second highest order year ever. This order performance highlights the end-market diversity and versatility of our portfolio.”

    “Overall, our margin increase across both segments continues to demonstrate strong progress on the journey toward 20% segment EBITDA margins. Transformation actions will continue to be a major driver of our margin improvements as we progress through 2025 and beyond. We remain confident in achieving our 20% EBITDA margin targets for OFSE this year and IET in 2026.”

    “As reflected in our strong 2024 results and our exceptional margin improvement, Baker Hughes has evolved into a more profitable energy and industrial technology company. Company results are benefiting from strong execution, sharpened commercial focus and improved productivity gains. Our confidence in the durability and growth of our earnings and free cash flow positions us to continue growing our dividend, highlighted by the announcement to increase our quarterly dividend by 10% to $0.23.”

    “I would like to thank the Baker Hughes team for yet again delivering outstanding results. As we continue our journey to move Baker Hughes forward, we remain committed to our customers, shareholders, and employees,” concluded Simonelli.

    * Non-GAAP measure. See reconciliations in the section titled “Reconciliation of GAAP to non-GAAP Financial Measures.”

      Three Months Ended   Variance
    (in millions except per share amounts) December 31,
    2024
    September 30,
    2024
    December 31,
    2023
      Sequential Year-over-year
    Orders $ 7,496 $ 6,676 $ 6,904   12 % 9 %
    Revenue   7,364   6,908   6,835   7 % 8 %
    Net income attributable to Baker Hughes   1,179   766   439   54 % 168 %
    Adjusted net income attributable to Baker Hughes*   694   666   511   4 % 36 %
    Operating income   665   930   651   (29 )% 2 %
    Adjusted operating income*   1,019   930   816   10 % 25 %
    Adjusted EBITDA*   1,310   1,208   1,091   8 % 20 %
    Diluted earnings per share (EPS)   1.18   0.77   0.43   54 % 171 %
    Adjusted diluted EPS*   0.70   0.67   0.51   4 % 37 %
    Cash flow from operating activities   1,189   1,010   932   18 % 28 %
    Free cash flow*   894   754   633   19 % 41 %

    * Non-GAAP measure. See reconciliations in the section titled “Reconciliation of GAAP to non-GAAP Financial Measures.”

    Certain columns and rows in our tables and financial statements may not sum up due to the use of rounded numbers.

    Quarter Highlights

    Industrial & Energy Technology (“IET”) recorded another strong quarter of gas infrastructure orders, booking an equipment award from Tecnicas Reunidas for the third expansion phase of the Jafurah unconventional gas field in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Gas Technology Equipment (“GTE”) will supply a total of 12 electric motor-driven compression trains and auxiliary treatment equipment for gas processing. This contract builds upon Baker Hughes’ long-standing relationship with Aramco and follows previous contract awards in 2022, bringing the total to 24 electric motor-driven compressors and an additional 14 compressors supplied by Baker Hughes for multiple Jafurah gas processing plants.

    In demonstration of its well-established leadership position in liquefied natural gas (“LNG”) technology solutions, Baker Hughes received multiple project awards in the fourth quarter. As part of a master equipment supply agreement, IET received a major contract to provide a modularized LNG system and power island to Venture Global. IET also received, from Bechtel Energy, a GTE award to supply eight LM6000 PF+ driven main refrigeration compressors and eight expander compressors across two LNG trains for a nameplate capacity of approximately 11 million ton per annum for Phase 1 of Woodside Energy’s Louisiana project.

    Gas Technology Services (“GTS”) continues to demonstrate leadership in turbomachinery aftermarket service, booking several notable service and upgrade awards to backlog. GTS signed a long-term services agreement to support Phases 1 and 2 of Venture Global’s Plaquemines LNG project, and also signed a 25-year services agreement with a NextDecade affiliate to support its Rio Grande LNG facility. Additionally, GTS received an award from an energy operator to provide planned maintenance activities to assure reliability, availability, and efficiency of turbomachinery at their LNG facility in Asia Pacific. The capabilities of IET’s iCenter™ will also be utilized to drive improved outcomes for the customer. Finally, GTS booked multiple upgrade awards for gas infrastructure projects in the Middle East and Europe.

    Climate Technology Solutions (“CTS”) secured multiple awards targeting flare reduction. As announced at COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, CTS will provide SOCAR, the state-owned oil company of Azerbaijan, with an integrated gas recovery and hydrogen sulfide removal system to significantly reduce downstream flaring at the Heydar Aliyev Oil Refinery. Separately in the Middle East, CTS will supply electric-driven centrifugal compressors for one of the largest gas processing and flare gas recovery projects globally.

    Oilfield Services & Equipment (“OFSE”), through its Mature Assets Solutions (“MAS”) offering, received a multi-year contract from Eni to help unlock bypassed reserves in one of Europe’s largest developments. Baker Hughes will utilize its AutoTrak eXact™ rotary steerable drilling system to reduce risks and execution costs for Eni. OFSE also booked another MAS award in the Middle East to provide artificial lift services in a super-giant oilfield, including advanced permanent magnet motors for improved electric submersible pump efficiency.

    Baker Hughes experienced a strong order quarter for flexible pipe systems in Brazil. Following a third-quarter 2024 award, OFSE received another flexible pipe systems award from Petrobras after an open tender, reinforcing this important relationship and Baker Hughes’ leading position in the product line. The capability of Baker Hughes’ flexible pipe systems to address the critical issue of stress-induced corrosion cracking from CO2 resulted in this significant award for approximately 48 miles of flexible pipe systems to be installed across four different fields. Additionally, OFSE received an order from Brava Energia to supply 9 miles of flexible pipe systems to be deployed in the Campos Basin.

    OFSE also advanced its digitalization and artificial intelligence capabilities, signing an agreement with AIQ, ADNOC and CORVA to launch the AI Rate of Penetration (ROP) Optimization initiative. The project aims to enhance drilling efficiency in real-time by providing insights and recommendations for optimizing weight on bit, rotations per minute and other critical parameters.

    Consolidated Revenue and Operating Income by Reporting Segment

    (in millions) Three Months Ended   Variance
      December 31,
    2024
    September 30,
    2024
    December 31,
    2023
      Sequential Year-over-year
    Oilfield Services & Equipment $ 3,871   $ 3,963   $ 3,956     (2 )% (2 )%
    Industrial & Energy Technology   3,492     2,945     2,879     19  % 21  %
    Segment revenue   7,364     6,908     6,835     7  % 8  %
                 
    Oilfield Services & Equipment   526     547     492     (4 )% 7  %
    Industrial & Energy Technology   584     474     412     23  % 42  %
    Corporate(1)   (91 )   (91 )   (88 )   —  % (3 )%
    Inventory impairment(2)   (73 )   —     (2 )   NM    NM   
    Restructuring, impairment and other   (281 )   —     (163 )   NM     (73 )%
    Operating income   665     930     651     (29 )% 2  %
    Adjusted operating income*   1,019     930     816     10  % 25  %
    Depreciation & amortization   291     278     274     5  % 6  %
    Adjusted EBITDA* $ 1,310   $ 1,208   $ 1,091     8  % 20  %

    * Non-GAAP measure. See reconciliations in the section titled “Reconciliation of GAAP to non-GAAP Financial Measures.”

    “NM” is used when the percentage variance is not meaningful.

    (1)   Corporate costs are primarily reported in “Selling, general and administrative” in the consolidated statements of income (loss).

    (2)   Charges for inventory impairments are reported in “Cost of goods sold” in the consolidated statements of income (loss).

    Revenue for the fourth quarter of 2024 was $7,364 million, an increase of 7% sequentially and an increase of 8% year-over-year. The increase in revenue year-over-year was driven by IET.

    The Company’s total book-to-bill ratio in the fourth quarter of 2024 was 1.0; the IET book-to-bill ratio was 1.1.

    Operating income as determined in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”), for the fourth quarter of 2024 was $665 million. Operating income decreased $265 million sequentially and increased $13 million year-over-year. Restructuring, impairment, and other charges were $281 million in the fourth quarter of 2024, primarily related to streamlining of the OFSE operating model.

    Adjusted operating income (a non-GAAP financial measure) for the fourth quarter of 2024 was $1,019 million, which excludes adjustments totaling $354 million. A list of the adjusting items and associated reconciliation from GAAP has been provided in Table 1a in the section titled “Reconciliation of GAAP to non-GAAP Financial Measures.” Adjusted operating income for the fourth quarter of 2024 was up 10% sequentially and up 25% year-over-year.

    Depreciation and amortization for the fourth quarter of 2024 was $291 million.

    Adjusted EBITDA (a non-GAAP financial measure) for the fourth quarter of 2024 was $1,310 million, which excludes adjustments totaling $354 million. See Table 1b in the section titled “Reconciliation of GAAP to non-GAAP Financial Measures.” Adjusted EBITDA for the fourth quarter was up 8% sequentially and up 20% year-over-year.

    The sequential increase in adjusted operating income and adjusted EBITDA was driven by higher volume in IET and structural cost-out initiatives in both segments, primarily offset by lower volume in OFSE. The year-over-year increase in adjusted operating income and adjusted EBITDA was driven by higher pricing and structural cost-out initiatives in both segments, and increased volume in IET primarily from higher proportionate growth in GTE, partially offset by decreased volume in OFSE and cost inflation in both segments.

    Other Financial Items

    Remaining Performance Obligations (“RPO”) in the fourth quarter of 2024 ended at $33.1 billion, a decrease of $0.3 billion from the third quarter of 2024. OFSE RPO was $3.0 billion, down 6% sequentially, while IET RPO was $30.1 billion, down $100 million sequentially. Within IET RPO, GTE RPO was $11.8 billion and GTS RPO was $15.0 billion.

    Income tax benefit in the fourth quarter of 2024 was $398 million reflecting the impact of a valuation allowance release in the U.S. The valuation allowance has been released primarily as a result of the U.S. moving into a cumulative three-year profit position.

    Other non-operating income in the fourth quarter of 2024 was $181 million. Included in other non-operating income were net mark-to-market gains in fair value and gains from sale for certain equity investments of $196 million.

    GAAP diluted earnings per share was $1.18. Adjusted diluted earnings per share (a non-GAAP financial measure) was $0.70. Excluded from adjusted diluted earnings per share were all items listed in Table 1c in the section titled “Reconciliation of GAAP to non-GAAP Financial Measures.”

    Cash flow from operating activities was $1,189 million for the fourth quarter of 2024. Free cash flow (a non-GAAP financial measure) for the quarter was $894 million. A reconciliation from GAAP has been provided in Table 1d in the section titled “Reconciliation of GAAP to non-GAAP Financial Measures.”

    Capital expenditures, net of proceeds from disposal of assets, were $295 million for the fourth quarter of 2024, of which $195 million was for OFSE and $87 million was for IET.

    Results by Reporting Segment
     

    The following segment discussions and variance explanations are intended to reflect management’s view of the relevant comparisons of financial results on a sequential or year-over-year basis, depending on the business dynamics of the reporting segments.

    Oilfield Services & Equipment

    (in millions) Three Months Ended   Variance
    Segment results December 31,
    2024
    September 30,
    2024
    December 31,
    2023
      Sequential Year-over-year
    Orders $ 3,740   $ 3,807   $ 3,874     (2 )% (3 )%
    Revenue $ 3,871   $ 3,963   $ 3,956     (2 )% (2 )%
    Operating income $ 526   $ 547   $ 492     (4 )% 7  %
    Operating margin   13.6 %   13.8 %   12.4 %   -0.2pts   1.1pts  
    Depreciation & amortization $ 229   $ 218   $ 217     5  % 6  %
    EBITDA* $ 755   $ 765   $ 709     (1 )% 7  %
    EBITDA margin*   19.5 %   19.3 %   17.9 %   0.2pts   1.6pts  
    (in millions) Three Months Ended   Variance
    Revenue by Product Line December 31,
    2024
    September 30,
    2024
    December 31,
    2023
      Sequential Year-over-year
    Well Construction $ 943 $ 1,050 $ 1,122   (10 )% (16 )%
    Completions, Intervention, and Measurements   1,022   1,009   1,086   1  % (6 )%
    Production Solutions   974   983   990   (1 )% (2 )%
    Subsea & Surface Pressure Systems   932   921   758   1  % 23  %
    Total Revenue $ 3,871 $ 3,963 $ 3,956   (2 )% (2 )%
    (in millions) Three Months Ended   Variance
    Revenue by Geographic Region December 31,
    2024
    September 30,
    2024
    December 31,
    2023
      Sequential Year-over-year
    North America $ 971 $ 971 $ 1,018   —  % (5 )%
    Latin America   661   648   708   2  % (7 )%
    Europe/CIS/Sub-Saharan Africa   740   933   707   (21 )% 5  %
    Middle East/Asia   1,499   1,411   1,522   6  % (2 )%
    Total Revenue $ 3,871 $ 3,963 $ 3,956   (2 )% (2 )%
                 
    North America $ 971 $ 971 $ 1,018   —  % (5 )%
    International   2,900   2,992   2,938   (3 )% (1 )%

    * Non-GAAP measure. See reconciliations in the section titled “Reconciliation of GAAP to non-GAAP Financial Measures.” EBITDA margin is defined as EBITDA divided by revenue.

    OFSE orders of $3,740 million for the fourth quarter of 2024 decreased by $67 million sequentially. Subsea and Surface Pressure Systems orders were $802 million, up 3% sequentially, and up 23% year-over-year.

    OFSE revenue of $3,871 million for the fourth quarter of 2024 was down 2% sequentially, and down 2% year-over-year.

    North America revenue was $971 million, flat sequentially. International revenue was $2,900 million, down 3% sequentially, driven by declines in Europe/CIS/Sub-Saharan Africa region partially offset by growth in Middle East/Asia and Latin America.

    Segment operating income for the fourth quarter was $526 million, a decrease of $22 million, or 4%, sequentially. Segment EBITDA for the fourth quarter of 2024 was $755 million, a decrease of $10 million, or 1% sequentially. The sequential decrease in segment operating income and EBITDA was driven by lower volume, partially mitigated by positive price and productivity from structural cost-out initiatives.

    Industrial & Energy Technology

    (in millions) Three Months Ended   Variance
    Segment results December 31,
    2024
    September 30,
    2024
    December 31,
    2023
      Sequential Year-over-year
    Orders $ 3,756   $ 2,868   $ 3,030     31 % 24 %
    Revenue $ 3,492   $ 2,945   $ 2,879     19 % 21 %
    Operating income $ 584   $ 474   $ 412     23 % 42 %
    Operating margin   16.7 %   16.1 %   14.3 %   0.6pts 2.4pts
    Depreciation & amortization $ 56   $ 54   $ 51     4 % 8 %
    EBITDA* $ 639   $ 528   $ 463     21 % 38 %
    EBITDA margin*   18.3 %   17.9 %   16.1 %   0.4pts 2.2pts
    (in millions) Three Months Ended   Variance
    Orders by Product Line December 31,
    2024
    September 30,
    2024
    December 31,
    2023
      Sequential Year-over-year
    Gas Technology Equipment $ 1,865 $ 1,088 $ 1,297   71  % 44  %
    Gas Technology Services   902   778   808   16  % 12  %
    Total Gas Technology   2,767   1,866   2,105   48  % 31  %
    Industrial Products   515   494   514   4  % —  %
    Industrial Solutions   320   293   288   9  % 11  %
    Total Industrial Technology   835   787   802   6  % 4  %
    Climate Technology Solutions   154   215   123   (28 )% 25  %
    Total Orders $ 3,756 $ 2,868 $ 3,030   31  % 24  %
    (in millions) Three Months Ended   Variance
    Revenue by Product Line December 31,
    2024
    September 30,
    2024
    December 31,
    2023
      Sequential Year-over-year
    Gas Technology Equipment $ 1,663 $ 1,281 $ 1,206   30 % 38 %
    Gas Technology Services   796   697   714   14 % 11 %
    Total Gas Technology   2,459   1,978   1,920   24 % 28 %
    Industrial Products   548   520   513   5 % 7 %
    Industrial Solutions   282   257   276   10 % 2 %
    Total Industrial Technology   830   777   789   7 % 5 %
    Climate Technology Solutions   204   191   170   7 % 20 %
    Total Revenue $ 3,492 $ 2,945 $ 2,879   19 % 21 %

    * Non-GAAP measure. See reconciliations in the section titled “Reconciliation of GAAP to non-GAAP Financial Measures.” EBITDA margin is defined as EBITDA divided by revenue.

    IET orders of $3,756 million for the fourth quarter of 2024 increased by $726 million, or 24% year-over-year. The increase was driven primarily by GTE orders which were up $568 million, or 44% year-over-year.

    IET revenue of $3,492 million for the fourth quarter of 2024 increased $613 million, or 21% year-over-year. The increase was driven primarily by Gas Technology, up 28% year-over-year.

    Segment operating income for the quarter was $584 million, an increase of $172 million, or 42% year-over-year. Segment EBITDA for the quarter was $639 million, an increase of $176 million, or 38% year-over-year. The year-over-year increase in segment operating income and segment EBITDA was driven by increased volume primarily from higher proportionate growth in GTE, positive pricing, and productivity, partially offset by cost inflation.

    2024 Total Year Results

    (in millions) Twelve Months Ended   Variance
      December 31, 2024 December 31, 2023   Year-over-year
    Oilfield Services & Equipment $ 15,240   $ 16,344     (7)%
    Industrial & Energy Technology   13,000     14,178     (8)%
    Orders $ 28,240   $ 30,522     (7)%
             
    Oilfield Services & Equipment $ 15,628   $ 15,361     2%
    Industrial & Energy Technology   12,201     10,145     20%
    Segment Revenue $ 27,829   $ 25,506     9%
             
    Oilfield Services & Equipment $ 1,988   $ 1,746     14%
    Industrial & Energy Technology   1,830     1,310     40%
    Corporate(1)   (363 )   (380 )   5%
    Inventory impairment(2)   (73 )   (35 )   (110)%
    Restructuring, impairment & other   (301 )   (323 )   7%
    Operating income   3,081     2,317     33%
    Adjusted operating income *   3,455     2,676     29%
    Depreciation & amortization   1,136     1,087     4%
    Adjusted EBITDA * $ 4,591   $ 3,763     22%

    * Non-GAAP measure. See reconciliations in the section titled “Reconciliation of GAAP to non-GAAP Financial Measures.”

    (1)   Corporate costs are primarily reported in “Selling, general and administrative” in the consolidated statements of income (loss).

    (2)   Charges for inventory impairments are reported in “Cost of goods sold” in the consolidated statements of income (loss). 

    Reconciliation of GAAP to non-GAAP Financial Measures

    Management provides non-GAAP financial measures because it believes such measures are widely accepted financial indicators used by investors and analysts to analyze and compare companies on the basis of operating performance (including adjusted operating income; EBITDA; EBITDA margin; adjusted EBITDA; adjusted net income attributable to Baker Hughes; and adjusted diluted earnings per share) and liquidity (free cash flow) and that these measures may be used by investors to make informed investment decisions. Management believes that the exclusion of certain identified items from several key operating performance measures enables us to evaluate our operations more effectively, to identify underlying trends in the business, and to establish operational goals for certain management compensation purposes. Management also believes that free cash flow is an important supplemental measure of our cash performance but should not be considered as a measure of residual cash flow available for discretionary purposes, or as an alternative to cash flow from operating activities presented in accordance with GAAP.

    Table 1a. Reconciliation of GAAP and Adjusted Operating Income

      Three Months Ended   Twelve Months Ended
      December 31, September 30, December 31,   December 31,
    (in millions)   2024   2024   2023     2024   2023
    Operating income (GAAP) $ 665 $ 930 $ 651   $ 3,081 $ 2,317
    Restructuring, impairment & other   281   —   163     301   323
    Inventory impairment(1)   73   —   2     73   35
    Total operating income adjustments   354   —   165     375   358
    Adjusted operating income (non-GAAP) $ 1,019 $ 930 $ 816   $ 3,455 $ 2,676

    (1)   Charges for inventory impairments are reported in “Cost of goods sold” in the consolidated statements of income (loss).

    Table 1a reconciles operating income, which is the directly comparable financial result determined in accordance with GAAP, to adjusted operating income. Adjusted operating income excludes the impact of certain identified items.

    Table 1b. Reconciliation of Net Income Attributable to Baker Hughes to EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA

      Three Months Ended   Twelve Months Ended
      December 31, September 30, December 31,   December 31,
    (in millions)   2024     2024     2023     2024     2023  
    Net income attributable to Baker Hughes (GAAP) $ 1,179   $ 766   $ 439   $ 2,979   $ 1,943  
    Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests   11     8     11     29     27  
    Provision (benefit) for income taxes   (398 )   235     72     257     685  
    Interest expense, net   54     55     45     198     216  
    Other non-operating (income) loss, net   (181 )   (134 )   84     (382 )   (554 )
    Operating income (GAAP)   665     930     651     3,081     2,317  
    Depreciation & amortization   291     278     274     1,136     1,087  
    EBITDA (non-GAAP)   956     1,208     926     4,216     3,405  
    Total operating income adjustments(1)   354     —     165     375     358  
    Adjusted EBITDA (non-GAAP) $ 1,310   $ 1,208   $ 1,091   $ 4,591   $ 3,763  

    (1)   See Table 1a for the identified adjustments to operating income.

    Table 1b reconciles net income attributable to Baker Hughes, which is the directly comparable financial result determined in accordance with GAAP, to EBITDA. Adjusted EBITDA excludes the impact of certain identified items.

    Table 1c. Reconciliation of Net Income Attributable to Baker Hughes to Adjusted Net Income Attributable to Baker Hughes

      Three Months Ended   Twelve Months Ended
      December 31, September 30, December 31,   December 31,
    (in millions, except per share amounts)   2024     2024     2023       2024     2023  
    Net income attributable to Baker Hughes (GAAP) $ 1,179   $ 766   $ 439     $ 2,979   $ 1,943  
    Total operating income adjustments(1)   354     —     165       375     358  
    Other adjustments (non-operating)(2)   (189 )   (99 )   89       (335 )   (554 )
    Tax adjustments(3)   (650 )   (1 )   (181 )     (663 )   (124 )
    Total adjustments, net of income tax   (485 )   (100 )   72       (623 )   (320 )
    Less: adjustments attributable to noncontrolling interests   —     —     —       —     —  
    Adjustments attributable to Baker Hughes   (485 )   (100 )   72       (623 )   (320 )
    Adjusted net income attributable to Baker Hughes (non-GAAP) $ 694   $ 666   $ 511     $ 2,356   $ 1,622  
                 
                 
    Denominator:            
    Weighted-average shares of Class A common stock outstanding diluted   999     999     1,010       1,001     1,015  
    Adjusted earnings per share – diluted (non-GAAP) $ 0.70   $ 0.67   $ 0.51     $ 2.35   $ 1.60  

    (1)   See Table 1a for the identified adjustments to operating income.

    (2)   All periods primarily reflect the net gain or loss on changes in fair value for certain equity investments.

    (3)   All periods reflect the tax associated with the other operating and non-operating adjustments. 4Q’24 and fiscal year 2024 include $664 million and 4Q’23 and fiscal year 2023 include $81 million, respectively, related to the release of valuation allowances for certain deferred tax assets.

    Table 1c reconciles net income attributable to Baker Hughes, which is the directly comparable financial result determined in accordance with GAAP, to adjusted net income attributable to Baker Hughes. Adjusted net income attributable to Baker Hughes excludes the impact of certain identified items.

    Table 1d. Reconciliation of Net Cash Flows From Operating Activities to Free Cash Flow

      Three Months Ended   Twelve Months Ended
      December 31, September 30, December 31,   December 31,
    (in millions)   2024     2024     2023       2024     2023  
    Net cash flows from operating activities (GAAP) $ 1,189   $ 1,010   $ 932     $ 3,332   $ 3,062  
    Add: cash used for capital expenditures, net of proceeds from disposal of assets   (295 )   (256 )   (298 )     (1,075 )   (1,016 )
    Free cash flow (non-GAAP) $ 894   $ 754   $ 633     $ 2,257   $ 2,045  

    Table 1d reconciles net cash flows from operating activities, which is the directly comparable financial result determined in accordance with GAAP, to free cash flow. Free cash flow is defined as net cash flows from operating activities less expenditures for capital assets plus proceeds from disposal of assets.

    Financial Tables (GAAP)
     
    Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income (Loss)
    (Unaudited)
     
      Three Months Ended
    (In millions, except per share amounts) December 31, 2024 September 30, 2024 December 31, 2023
    Revenue $ 7,364   $ 6,908   $ 6,835  
    Costs and expenses:      
    Cost of revenue   5,833     5,366     5,386  
    Selling, general and administrative   585     612     634  
    Restructuring, impairment and other   281     —     163  
    Total costs and expenses   6,699     5,978     6,183  
    Operating income   665     930     651  
    Other non-operating income (loss), net   181     134     (84 )
    Interest expense, net   (54 )   (55 )   (45 )
    Income before income taxes   792     1,009     522  
    Benefit (provision) for income taxes   398     (235 )   (72 )
    Net income   1,190     774     450  
    Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests   11     8     11  
    Net income attributable to Baker Hughes Company $ 1,179   $ 766   $ 439  
           
    Per share amounts:    
    Basic income per Class A common share $ 1.19   $ 0.77   $ 0.44  
    Diluted income per Class A common share $ 1.18   $ 0.77   $ 0.43  
           
    Weighted average shares:      
    Class A basic   990     993     1,001  
    Class A diluted   999     999     1,010  
           
    Cash dividend per Class A common share $ 0.21   $ 0.21   $ 0.20  
           
     
    Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income (Loss)
    (Unaudited)
     
      Year Ended December 31,
    (In millions, except per share amounts)   2024     2023     2022  
    Revenue $ 27,829   $ 25,506   $ 21,156  
    Costs and expenses:      
    Cost of revenue   21,989     20,255     16,756  
    Selling, general and administrative   2,458     2,611     2,510  
    Restructuring, impairment and other   301     323     705  
    Total costs and expenses   24,748     23,189     19,971  
    Operating income   3,081     2,317     1,185  
    Other non-operating income (loss), net   382     554     (911 )
    Interest expense, net   (198 )   (216 )   (252 )
    Income before income taxes   3,265     2,655     22  
    Provision for income taxes   (257 )   (685 )   (600 )
    Net income (loss)   3,008     1,970     (578 )
    Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests   29     27     23  
    Net income (loss) attributable to Baker Hughes Company $ 2,979   $ 1,943   $ (601 )
           
    Per share amounts:      
    Basic income (loss) per Class A common share $ 3.00   $ 1.93   $ (0.61 )
    Diluted income (loss) per Class A common share $ 2.98   $ 1.91   $ (0.61 )
           
    Weighted average shares:      
    Class A basic   994     1,008     987  
    Class A diluted   1,001     1,015     987  
           
    Cash dividend per Class A common share $ 0.84   $ 0.78   $ 0.73  
     
    Condensed Consolidated Statements of Financial Position
    (Unaudited)
     
      December 31,
    (In millions)   2024   2023
    ASSETS
    Current Assets:    
    Cash and cash equivalents $ 3,364 $ 2,646
    Current receivables, net   7,122   7,075
    Inventories, net   4,954   5,094
    All other current assets   1,771   1,486
    Total current assets   17,211   16,301
    Property, plant and equipment, less accumulated depreciation   5,127   4,893
    Goodwill   6,078   6,137
    Other intangible assets, net   3,951   4,093
    Contract and other deferred assets   1,730   1,756
    All other assets   4,266   3,765
    Total assets $ 38,363 $ 36,945
    LIABILITIES AND EQUITY
    Current Liabilities:    
    Accounts payable $ 4,542 $ 4,471
    Short-term and current portion of long-term debt   53   148
    Progress collections and deferred income   5,672   5,542
    All other current liabilities   2,724   2,830
    Total current liabilities   12,991   12,991
    Long-term debt   5,970   5,872
    Liabilities for pensions and other postretirement benefits   988   978
    All other liabilities   1,359   1,585
    Equity   17,055   15,519
    Total liabilities and equity $ 38,363 $ 36,945
         
    Outstanding Baker Hughes Company shares:    
    Class A common stock   990   998
     
    Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
    (Unaudited)
     
      Three Months
    Ended
    December 31,
    Twelve Months Ended
    December 31,
    (In millions)   2024     2024     2023  
    Cash flows from operating activities:      
    Net income $ 1,190   $ 3,008   $ 1,970  
    Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash flows from operating activities:      
    Depreciation and amortization   291     1,136     1,087  
    Benefit for deferred income taxes   (706 )   (671 )   (59 )
    Gain on equity securities   (196 )   (367 )   (555 )
    Stock-based compensation cost   49     202     197  
    Property, plant and equipment impairment, net   77     77     (1 )
    Gain on business dispositions   —     —     (40 )
    Working capital   63     7     42  
    Other operating items, net   421     (60 )   421  
    Net cash flows provided by operating activities   1,189     3,332     3,062  
    Cash flows from investing activities:      
    Expenditures for capital assets   (353 )   (1,278 )   (1,224 )
    Proceeds from disposal of assets   58     203     208  
    Proceeds from sale of equity securities   71     92     372  
    Proceeds from business dispositions   —     —     293  
    Net cash paid for acquisitions   —     —     (301 )
    Other investing items, net   6     (33 )   (165 )
    Net cash flows used in investing activities   (218 )   (1,016 )   (817 )
    Cash flows from financing activities:      
    Repayment of long-term debt   (9 )   (143 )   (651 )
    Dividends paid   (208 )   (836 )   (786 )
    Repurchase of Class A common stock   (9 )   (484 )   (538 )
    Other financing items, net   (8 )   (64 )   (53 )
    Net cash flows used in financing activities   (234 )   (1,527 )   (2,028 )
    Effect of currency exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents   (37 )   (71 )   (59 )
    Increase in cash and cash equivalents   700     718     158  
    Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period   2,664     2,646     2,488  
    Cash and cash equivalents, end of period $ 3,364   $ 3,364   $ 2,646  
    Supplemental cash flows disclosures:      
    Income taxes paid, net of refunds $ 307   $ 1,040   $ 595  
    Interest paid $ 99   $ 298   $ 309  
     

    Supplemental Financial Information

    Supplemental financial information can be found on the Company’s website at: investors.bakerhughes.com in the Financial Information section under Quarterly Results.

    Conference Call and Webcast

    The Company has scheduled an investor conference call to discuss management’s outlook and the results reported in today’s earnings announcement. The call will begin at 9:30 a.m. Eastern time, 8:30 a.m. Central time on Friday, January 31, 2025, the content of which is not part of this earnings release. The conference call will be broadcast live via a webcast and can be accessed by visiting the Events and Presentations page on the Company’s website at: investors.bakerhughes.com. An archived version of the webcast will be available on the website for one month following the webcast.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This news release (and oral statements made regarding the subjects of this release) may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, (each a “forward-looking statement”). Forward-looking statements concern future circumstances and results and other statements that are not historical facts and are sometimes identified by the words “may,” “will,” “should,” “potential,” “intend,” “expect,” “would,” “seek,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “overestimate,” “underestimate,” “believe,” “could,” “project,” “predict,” “continue,” “target”, “goal” or other similar words or expressions. There are many risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from our forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are also affected by the risk factors described in the Company’s annual report on Form 10-K for the annual period ended December 31,2024; and those set forth from time to time in other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). The documents are available through the Company’s website at: www.investors.bakerhughes.com or through the SEC’s Electronic Data Gathering and Analysis Retrieval system at: www.sec.gov. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, except as required by law. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on any of these forward-looking statements.

    Our expectations regarding our business outlook and business plans; the business plans of our customers; oil and natural gas market conditions; cost and availability of resources; economic, legal and regulatory conditions, and other matters are only our forecasts regarding these matters.

    These forward-looking statements, including forecasts, may be substantially different from actual results, which are affected by many risks, along with the following risk factors and the timing of any of these risk factors:

    • Economic and political conditions – the impact of worldwide economic conditions and rising inflation; the impact of tariffs and the potential for significant increases thereto; the effect that declines in credit availability may have on worldwide economic growth and demand for hydrocarbons; foreign currency exchange fluctuations and changes in the capital markets in locations where we operate; and the impact of government disruptions and sanctions.
    • Orders and RPO – our ability to execute on orders and RPO in accordance with agreed specifications, terms and conditions and convert those orders and RPO to revenue and cash.
    • Oil and gas market conditions – the level of petroleum industry exploration, development and production expenditures; the price of, volatility in pricing of, and the demand for crude oil and natural gas; drilling activity; drilling permits for and regulation of the shelf and the deepwater drilling; excess productive capacity; crude and product inventories; liquefied natural gas supply and demand; seasonal and other adverse weather conditions that affect the demand for energy; severe weather conditions, such as tornadoes and hurricanes, that affect exploration and production activities; Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (“OPEC”) policy and the adherence by OPEC nations to their OPEC production quotas.
    • Terrorism and geopolitical risks – war, military action, terrorist activities or extended periods of international conflict, particularly involving any petroleum-producing or consuming regions, including Russia and Ukraine; and the recent conflict in the Middle East; labor disruptions, civil unrest or security conditions where we operate; potentially burdensome taxation, expropriation of assets by governmental action; cybersecurity risks and cyber incidents or attacks; epidemic outbreaks.

    About Baker Hughes:

    Baker Hughes (Nasdaq: BKR) is an energy technology company that provides solutions for energy and industrial customers worldwide. Built on a century of experience and conducting business in over 120 countries, our innovative technologies and services are taking energy forward – making it safer, cleaner and more efficient for people and the planet. Visit us at bakerhughes.com

    For more information, please contact:

    Investor Relations

    Chase Mulvehill
    +1 346-297-2561
    investor.relations@bakerhughes.com

    Media Relations

    Adrienne Lynch
    +1 713-906-8407
    adrienne.lynch@bakerhughes.com

    The MIL Network –

    January 31, 2025
  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Single Data Return (SDR)

    Source: Tertiary Education Commission

    What is the SDR?
    The SDR is an electronic database of learner enrolment and completion information required by the Ministry of Education (MoE) and the Tertiary Education Commission (TEC).
    The data is used for:

    monitoring performance against your Investment Plan 
    funding and fund recovery 
    publishing performance information
    statistical reporting.

    Note: Services for Tertiary Education Organisations (STEO) will be replaced by DXP Ngā Kete in early 2025. For more information go to Data System Refresh (DSR) programme.
    Who needs to complete an SDR?
    All tertiary education organisations (TEOs) need to complete an SDR three times a year if they:

    receive Delivery at Levels 1–10 on the New Zealand Qualifications and Credentials Framework, including Youth Guarantee (YG), and/or
    have students with student loans or allowances.

    Completing an SDR is a condition of funding, and it’s important that you do so accurately and on time. Late or incomplete submissions can result in delays to your scheduled payments. (See Single Data Return submission dates.)
    Accessing the SDR
    You can access the SDR through the TEC Data Exchange Platform (DXP).
    You are able to log in through MoE’s Education Sector Logon (ESL) service.
    To find out how to set up access, please contact MoE on 0800 422 599 or service.desk@education.govt.nz. 
    Information to submit
    You’ll find comprehensive guidance in the:

    Here is some important information to include:
    Details about each of your enrolled students
    If you receive Delivery at Levels 1–10 on the New Zealand Qualifications and Credentials Framework or YG funding, you need to provide information about each of your enrolled students, regardless of the level of study or the type of funding. For more details, see the introduction to the 2023 SDR Manual
    Workforce questionnaire (WFQ) – before you submit your December SDR
    Before you submit your December SDR, upload your WFQ to the TEC DXP. We won’t accept your December SDR without a processed WFQ.
    Up-to-date delivery site information
    Please check that your delivery site information in the STEO application is up to date. (For information on how to complete your SDR, including delivery sites, see the STEO user guide.) We rely on this information to analyse regional funding and provision. If you need to submit a delivery site update request, please do so early so we can process it in time for your final SDR submission.
    Forecasts
    If you are delivering qualifications eligible for TEC funding at Level 3 and above, with a source of funding code of 01, 29, 11 or 37, you need to provide an equivalent full-time student (EFTS) forecast with each round. The forecast should not include TEC-funded provision for Levels 1 and 2 or Youth Guarantee.
    Correct funding codes
    Before submitting your SDR, please check that you have used the correct funding codes. (These are in the 2023 SDR Manual). If you use the wrong codes, you may need to resubmit your SDR. If you have any questions about the codes, please refer to the SDR Manual or contact us at 0800 601 301 or customerservice@tec.govt.nz.
    New course/qualification requests
    You can change the credits, fees, levels or classifications of your courses and qualifications at any time. You don’t need to wait until just before your SDR is due. But it’s important to submit the change request through the STEO application before you submit a trial SDR.
    If you want to make multiple changes to courses (as a result of changing the disaggregation approach for a qualification), you need to do this before the courses start each year. We don’t approve in-year change requests resulting from substantial disaggregation for the current year.
    Completing a trial SDR
    So you have time to correct any errors in your data, it’s important to complete a trial SDR before submitting your final SDR. For help completing a SDR, please refer to the STEO user guide.
    Importance of data accuracy and timeliness
    We use data from every SDR to plan our ongoing investment in tertiary education. If you submit your data late or with errors, or resubmit it with changes, this can have flow-on effects for us and for other TEOs.
    To manage this, we don’t accept resubmissions of August or December SDRs unless we have approved the resubmission (which we will do only in exceptional circumstances).
    We will accept resubmissions of the April SDR during a set period (which we will let you know about each year) to allow you to review your educational performance indicator (EPI) data. Outside this set period, we will only accept resubmissions of the April SDR in exceptional circumstances. We may ask you to consider making any corrections in later SDR submissions in the next SDR round.
    We will treat all resubmissions outside published timeframes as late.
    What are “exceptional circumstances”?
    “Exceptional circumstances” are those that are genuinely unforeseeable and that you could not have proactively managed.
    We are unlikely to consider the following circumstances to be exceptional:

    Data issues identified during or after the sale and purchase of a TEO. If you are purchasing a TEO, you need to be confident that its historical SDR data is accurate.
    Student Management System (SMS) software errors. Submit trial SDRs early to identify and address any issues well in advance of the final submission deadline.
    A change of SMS, resulting in errors. If you are changing your SMS, you need to be confident you can do this without risking errors.
    Errors made by a staff member that were only identified at a later stage. You are responsible for ensuring that your staff submit accurate data. 
    Not checking your organisation’s EPI data from the April SDR in time. You are responsible for reading and responding to our announcements about when data is available for you to review.

    Late or inaccurate data
    If you don’t provide a timely and accurate SDR, your current or future funding may be affected.
    If you continue to submit inaccurate, incomplete or late data, we may introduce an extra monitoring process. For example, you could be asked to use an external auditor to confirm that your data is valid and accurate before you submit each SDR.
    Our Stop Gate process
    Our Stop Gate helps us manage late submissions and resubmissions of a full set of files. This means you need to submit a full set of SDR files by the due date for each round.
    We will decide whether or not to approve a submission outside of the SDR round on a case-by-case basis. You can also resubmit your data if we find an error after submission, with our permission.
    The process is as follows:

    Contact us on 0800 601 301 or customerservice@tec.govt.nz as soon as possible.
    We will then send you an SDR late/resubmission request (Stop Gate request) form to complete and submit.
    Once your SDR submission has the status of “Processed” (with zero errors) please send the completed form to customerservice@tec.govt.nz with the subject line [EDUMIS #] – SDR Stop Gate Request.
    Your request will be forwarded to the Customer Contact Group Manager to consider for approval.
    If we approve your request, we will advise you of the due date and lift the Stop Gate, allowing you to submit your processed (with zero errors) SDR.
    If we decline your request, we will advise you of the reason for that decision.

    This does not affect the SDR validation, processing and submission process. You can still submit course register, course and qualification completion files at any time, and we encourage you to do so, particularly after the December round so we can confirm your EPIs as early as possible. 
    Notes:
    This does not affect the SDR validation, processing and submission process. You can still submit course register, course and qualification completion files at any time, and we encourage you to do so, particularly after the December round so we can confirm your EPIs as early as possible. 
    Any amendment to a previously submitted SDR may have an impact on future funding and performance monitoring.
    If the data from an SDR has been published in a report (such as statistical reporting), the published data can no longer be altered.
    Resources to help you submit your SDR

    For help with the submissions process, see the STEO user guide.
    For a helpful guide to SDR, see the 2023 SDR Manual.
    For general assistance, guidance with validation errors and help with course, qualification and delivery site approvals, contact us on 0800 601 301 or customerservice@tec.govt.nz with the subject [EDUMIS #] Dec SDR enquiry.
    For help with your Education Sector Login (ESL), contact the Education Service Desk on 0800 422 599 or desk@education.govt.nz.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    January 31, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Wearable Devices Ltd. Announces Closing of $2.5 Million Public Offering

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Yokneam Illit, Israel, Jan. 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Wearable Devices Ltd. (the “Company” or “Wearable Devices”) (Nasdaq: WLDS, WLDSW), an award-winning pioneer in artificial intelligence (“AI”)-based wearable gesture control technology, today announced the closing of its previously announced “reasonable best efforts” public offering with a single institutional investor for the purchase and sale of 345,000 ordinary shares, 2,155,000 pre-funded warrants, and warrants to purchase up to 2,500,000 ordinary shares, at a combined offering price of $1.00 per share and accompanying warrant (the “Offering”). The Company received aggregate gross proceeds of approximately $2.5 million, before deducting placement agent fees and other offering expenses and assuming no exercise of the warrants. The warrants have an exercise price of $1.00 per share, are exercisable immediately and expire five years from the issuance date.

    The Company intends to use the net proceeds from the Offering for working capital and general corporate purposes.

    A.G.P./Alliance Global Partners acted as the sole placement agent for the Offering.

    In connection with the Offering, the Company also agreed to amend existing warrants that were previously issued to the investor participating in the Offering to purchase up to 822,000 ordinary shares of the Company, with an exercise price of $2.50 per share. Such existing warrants have been amended to reduce the exercise price to $1.00 per share and expire five years following the closing of the Offering.

    The securities described above were offered pursuant to a registration statement on Form F-1, as amended (File No. 333-284023), previously filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), which was declared effective on January 28, 2025. The Offering was made only by means of a prospectus forming part of the effective registration statement. Copies of the preliminary prospectus and the final prospectus relating to the Offering may be obtained on the SEC’s website located at http://www.sec.gov. Electronic copies of the final prospectus relating to the Offering may be obtained from A.G.P./Alliance Global Partners, 590 Madison Avenue, 28th Floor, New York, NY 10022, or by telephone at (212) 624-2060, or by email at prospectus@allianceg.com.

    This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any of the securities in this Offering, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any state or other jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to the registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or other jurisdiction.

    About Wearable Devices Ltd.

    Wearable Devices Ltd. is a pioneering growth company revolutionizing human-computer interaction through its AI-powered neural input technology for both consumer and business markets. Leveraging proprietary sensors, software, and advanced AI algorithms, the Company’s innovative products, including the Mudra Band for iOS and Mudra Link for Android, enable seamless, touch-free interaction by transforming subtle finger and wrist movements into intuitive controls. These groundbreaking solutions enhance gaming, and the rapidly expanding AR/VR/XR landscapes. The Company offers a dual-channel business model: direct-to-consumer sales and enterprise licensing. Its flagship Mudra Band integrates functional and stylish design with cutting-edge AI to empower consumers, while its enterprise solutions provide businesses with the tools to deliver immersive and interactive experiences. By setting the input standard for the XR market, Wearable Devices is redefining user experiences and driving innovation in one of the fastest-growing tech sectors. Wearable Devices’ ordinary shares and warrants trade on the Nasdaq under the symbols “WLDS” and “WLDSW,” respectively.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, that are intended to be covered by the “safe harbor” created by those sections. Forward-looking statements, which are based on certain assumptions and describe our future plans, strategies and expectations, can generally be identified by the use of forward-looking terms such as “believe,” “expect,” “may,” “should,” “could,” “seek,” “intend,” “plan,” “goal,” “estimate,” “anticipate,” “will” or other comparable terms. For example, we are using forward-looking statements when we discuss the expected use of proceeds from this Offering. All statements other than statements of historical facts included in this press release regarding our strategies, prospects, financial condition, operations, costs, plans and objectives are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are neither historical facts nor assurances of future performance. Instead, they are based only on our current beliefs, expectations and assumptions regarding the future of our business, future plans and strategies, projections, anticipated events and trends, the economy and other future conditions. Because forward-looking statements relate to the future, they are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks and changes in circumstances that are difficult to predict and many of which are outside of our control. Our actual results and financial condition may differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements. Therefore, you should not rely on any of these forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause our actual results and financial condition to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements include, among others, the following: the trading of our ordinary shares or warrants and the development of a liquid trading market; our ability to successfully market our products and services; the acceptance of our products and services by customers; our continued ability to pay operating costs and ability to meet demand for our products and services; the amount and nature of competition from other security and telecom products and services; the effects of changes in the cybersecurity and telecom markets; our ability to successfully develop new products and services; our success establishing and maintaining collaborative, strategic alliance agreements, licensing and supplier arrangements; our ability to comply with applicable regulations; and the other risks and uncertainties described in our annual report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2023, filed on March 15, 2024 and our other filings with the SEC, including the registration statement on Form F-1, as amended (File No. 333-284023). We undertake no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether written or oral, that may be made from time to time, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise.

    Investor Relations Contact

    Michal Efraty
    IR@wearabledevices.co.il

    The MIL Network –

    January 31, 2025
  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: International treaty examination of the NZ – UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement and Agreement on the Promotion and Protection of Investments

    Source: New Zealand ParliamentThe Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade Committee is calling for submissions on its international treaty examination of the New Zealand – United Arab Emirates Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, and Agreement between the Government of New Zealand and the Government of the United Arab Emirates on the Promotion and Protection of Investments.
    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    January 31, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: LPL Financial Announces Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2024 Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Fourth Quarter 2024

    Key Financial Results:

    • Net Income was $271 million, translating to diluted earnings per share (“EPS”) of $3.59, up 26% from a year ago
    • Adjusted EPS* increased 21% year-over-year to $4.25
      • Gross profit* increased 22% year-over-year to $1,228 million
      • Core G&A* increased 16% year-over-year to $422 million
      • Adjusted EBITDA* increased 22% year-over-year to $585 million

    Key Business Results:

    • Total advisory and brokerage assets increased 29% year-over-year to $1.7 trillion
      • Advisory assets increased 30% year-over-year to $957 billion
      • Advisory assets as a percentage of total assets increased to 55.0%, up from 54.3% a year ago
    • Total organic net new assets were $68 billion, representing 17% annualized growth
      • This included $40 billion of assets from Prudential Advisors (“Prudential”), and $2 billion of assets that off-boarded as part of the previously disclosed planned separation from misaligned large OSJs. Prior to these impacts, organic net new assets were $30 billion, translating to an 8% annualized growth rate
    • Recruited assets(1)were a record of $79 billion
      • This included $63 billion of assets from Prudential
    • Advisor count(2)was 28,888, up 5,202 sequentially and 6,228 year-over-year
      • This included approximately 2,200 advisors from Atria Wealth Solutions, Inc. (“Atria”), and approximately 2,800 advisors from Prudential
    • Total client cash balances were $55 billion, an increase of $9 billion sequentially and $7 billion year-over-year
      • Client cash balances as a percentage of total assets were 3.2%, up from 2.9% in the prior quarter and down from 3.6% a year ago

    Key Capital and Liquidity Results:

    • Corporate cash(3)was $479 million
    • Leverage ratio(4)was 1.89x
    • Share repurchases were $100 million and dividends paid were $23 million

    Full Year 2024

    Key Financial Results:

    • Net Income was $1.1 billion, translating to diluted EPS of $14.03, up 2% from a year ago
    • Adjusted EPS* increased 5% year-over-year to $16.51
      • Gross profit* increased 12% year-over-year to $4.50 billion
      • Core G&A* increased 11% year-over-year to $1.52 billion
      • Adjusted EBITDA* increased 7% year-over-year to $2.22 billion

    Key Business & Capital and Liquidity Results:

    • Total organic net new assets were $141 billion, representing a 10% growth rate, up from 9% in 2023
    • Recruited assets for the year were a record of $149 billion, up approximately 86% from a year ago
    • Share repurchases were $170 million and dividends paid were $90 million

    Key Updates

    Large Institutions:

    • Prudential: Onboarded the retail wealth management business of Prudential, with $63 billion of total assets, of which $40 billion transitioned onto our platform in Q4
    • Wintrust Financial Corporation: In January 2025, onboarded the wealth management business of Wintrust Investments, LLC and certain private client business at Great Lakes Advisors, LLC (collectively, “Wintrust”), with $16 billion of brokerage and advisory assets, of which $15 billion transitioned onto our platform to-date

    M&A:

    • Atria: Closed the acquisition of Atria, and expect to complete the conversion in mid-2025
    • The Investment Center, Inc. (“The Investment Center”): On track to close and convert the acquisition of The Investment Center in the first half of 2025
    • Liquidity & Succession: Deployed approximately $81 million of capital to close 8 deals in Q4, including two external practices

    Corporate Debt:

    • Completed leverage-neutral refinancing of existing $1.0 billion Senior Secured Term Loan B with a new $1.0 billion Senior Unsecured Term Loan A

    Core G&A:

    • 2024 Core G&A* was $1,515 million, within our outlook range of $1,510 million to $1,525 million
      • Prior to the impact of Prudential and Atria, 2024 Core G&A* increased by approximately 8%
    • In 2025, we plan to slow the growth of Core G&A*, as our ongoing investments to scale our business are driving greater efficiencies
      • Our 2025 Core G&A* outlook range prior to Prudential and Atria is 6% to 8% year-over-year growth, or $1,560 million to $1,600 million
      • Including expenses related to Prudential and Atria, our 2025 Core G&A* outlook range is $1,730 million to $1,780 million

    SAN DIEGO, Jan. 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — LPL Financial Holdings Inc. (Nasdaq: LPLA) (the “Company”) today announced results for its fourth quarter ended December 31, 2024, reporting net income of $271 million, or $3.59 per share. This compares with $218 million, or $2.85 per share, in the fourth quarter of 2023 and $255 million, or $3.39 per share, in the prior quarter.

    “2024 marked another milestone year for LPL,” said Rich Steinmeier, CEO. “We delivered double-digit organic asset growth, including the onboarding of one of our largest institutional partners, closed on our acquisition of Atria, continued to advance our pioneering Liquidity & Succession program, and reported record adjusted earnings per share. Looking ahead to 2025, our business momentum and financial strength position us well to continue expanding our leadership across the advisor-mediated marketplace and delivering long-term shareholder value.”

    “In Q4, we delivered solid business and financial results,” said Matt Audette, President and CFO. “As we look ahead, we remain excited about the opportunities we have to continue to drive growth, deliver operating leverage, and create long-term shareholder value.”

    Dividend Declaration

    The Company’s Board of Directors declared a $0.30 per share dividend to be paid on March 25, 2025 to all stockholders of record as of March 11, 2025.

    Conference Call and Additional Information

    The Company will hold a conference call to discuss its results at 5:00 p.m. ET on Thursday, January 30, 2025. The conference call will be accessible and available for replay at investor.lpl.com/events.

    Contacts

    Investor Relations
    investor.relations@lplfinancial.com

    Media Relations
    media.relations@lplfinancial.com

    About LPL Financial

    LPL Financial Holdings Inc. (Nasdaq: LPLA) is among the fastest growing wealth management firms in the U.S. As a leader in the financial advisor-mediated marketplace(5), LPL supports nearly 29,000 financial advisors and the wealth management practices of approximately 1,200 financial institutions, servicing and custodying approximately $1.7 trillion in brokerage and advisory assets on behalf of approximately 6 million Americans. The firm provides a wide range of advisor affiliation models, investment solutions, fintech tools and practice management services, ensuring that advisors and institutions have the flexibility to choose the business model, services, and technology resources they need to run thriving businesses. For further information about LPL, please visit www.lpl.com.

    Securities and Advisory services offered through LPL Financial LLC (“LPL Financial”) or its affiliate LPL Enterprise, LLC (“LPL Enterprise”), both registered investment advisers and broker-dealers. Members FINRA/SIPC. LPL Financial serves as the clearing and carrying firm for accounts LPL Enterprise introduces to it.

    LPL Financial and LPL Enterprise provide financial services only from the United States.

    Throughout this communication, the terms “financial advisors” and “advisors” are used to refer to registered representatives and/or investment advisor representatives affiliated with LPL Financial.

    We routinely disclose information that may be important to shareholders in the “Investor Relations” or “Press Releases” section of our website.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains statements regarding:

    • the amount and timing of the onboarding of acquired, recruited or transitioned brokerage and advisory assets, including Atria, Prudential, The Investment Center and Wintrust;
    • the Company’s future financial and operating results, growth, plans, priorities and business strategies, including forecasts and statements related to the Company’s ICA yield, service and fee revenue, transaction revenue, core G&A expense, promotional expense, share-based compensation expense, depreciation and amortization and share repurchases; and
    • future capabilities, future advisor service experience, future investments and capital deployment, including share repurchase activity and dividends, if any, and long-term shareholder value.

    These and any other statements that are not related to present facts or current conditions, or that are not purely historical, constitute forward-looking statements. They reflect the Company’s expectations and objectives as of January 30, 2025 and are not guarantees that expectations or objectives expressed or implied will be achieved. The achievement of such expectations and objectives involves risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results, levels of activity or the timing of events to differ materially from those expressed or implied by forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause or contribute to such differences include:

    • the failure to satisfy the closing conditions applicable to the Company’s purchase agreement with The Investment Center, including regulatory approvals;
    • difficulties and delays in onboarding the assets of acquired, recruited or transitioned advisors, including the receipt and timing of regulatory approvals that may be required;
    • disruptions in the businesses of the Company that could make it more difficult to maintain relationships with advisors and their clients;
    • the choice by clients of acquired or recruited advisors not to open brokerage and/or advisory accounts at the Company;
    • changes in general economic and financial market conditions, including retail investor sentiment;
    • changes in interest rates and fees payable by banks participating in the Company’s client cash programs, including the Company’s success in negotiating agreements with current or additional counterparties;
    • the Company’s strategy and success in managing client cash program fees;
    • fluctuations in the levels of advisory and brokerage assets, including net new assets, and the related impact on revenue;
    • effects of competition in the financial services industry and the success of the Company in attracting and retaining financial advisors and institutions, and their ability to provide financial products and services effectively;
    • whether retail investors served by newly-recruited advisors choose to move their respective assets to new accounts at the Company;
    • changes in the growth and profitability of the Company’s fee-based offerings and asset-based revenues;
    • the effect of current, pending and future legislation, regulation and regulatory actions, including disciplinary actions imposed by federal and state regulators and self-regulatory organizations;
    • the cost of defending, settling and remediating issues related to regulatory matters or legal proceedings, including civil monetary penalties or actual costs of reimbursing customers for losses in excess of our reserves or insurance;
    • changes made to the Company’s services and pricing, including in response to competitive developments and current, pending and future legislation, regulation and regulatory actions, and the effect that such changes may have on the Company’s gross profit streams and costs;
    • the execution of the Company’s capital management plans, including its compliance with the terms of the Company’s amended and restated credit agreement, the committed revolving credit facilities of the Company and LPL Financial, and the indentures governing the Company’s senior unsecured notes;
    • strategic acquisitions and investments, including pursuant to the Company’s Liquidity & Succession solution, and the effect that such acquisitions and investments may have on the Company’s capital management plans and liquidity;
    • the price, availability and trading volumes of shares of the Company’s common stock, which will affect the timing and size of future share repurchases by the Company, if any;
    • the execution of the Company’s plans and its success in realizing the synergies, expense savings, service improvements or efficiencies expected to result from its investments, initiatives and acquisitions, expense plans and technology initiatives;
    • whether advisors affiliated with Atria, Prudential, The Investment Center, and Wintrust will transition registration to the Company and whether assets reported as serviced by such financial advisors will translate into assets of the Company;
    • the performance of third-party service providers to which business processes have been transitioned;
    • the Company’s ability to control operating risks, information technology systems risks, cybersecurity risks and sourcing risks; and
    • the other factors set forth in the Company’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K, as may be amended or updated in the Company’s Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q or other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. 

    Except as required by law, the Company specifically disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statements as a result of developments occurring after the date of this earnings release, and you should not rely on statements contained herein as representing the Company’s view as of any date subsequent to the date of this press release.

     
    LPL Financial Holdings Inc.
    Consolidated Statements of Income
    (In thousands, except per share data)
    (Unaudited)
     
        Three Months Ended   Three Months Ended  
        December 31, September 30,   December 31,  
          2024     2024   Change   2023   Change
    REVENUE            
    Advisory   $ 1,595,834   $ 1,378,050   16 % $ 1,085,497   47 %
    Commission:            
    Sales-based     525,795     429,132   23 %   355,958   48 %
    Trailing     439,668     377,400   16 %   326,454   35 %
    Total commission     965,463     806,532   20 %   682,412   41 %
    Asset-based:            
    Client cash     378,816     353,855   7 %   352,661   7 %
    Other asset-based     290,962     272,336   7 %   228,473   27 %
    Total asset-based     669,778     626,191   7 %   581,134   15 %
    Service and fee     139,119     145,729   (5 %)   130,680   6 %
    Transaction     61,535     58,546   5 %   53,858   14 %
    Interest income, net     46,680     49,923   (6 %)   43,312   8 %
    Other     33,942     43,423   (22 %)   66,936   (49 %)
    Total revenue     3,512,351     3,108,394   13 %   2,643,829   33 %
    EXPENSE            
    Advisory and commission     2,250,427     1,948,065   16 %   1,607,978   40 %
    Compensation and benefits     321,933     266,415   21 %   270,709   19 %
    Promotional     162,057     164,538   (2 %)   126,800   28 %
    Depreciation and amortization     92,032     78,338   17 %   67,936   35 %
    Interest expense on borrowings     81,979     67,779   21 %   54,415   51 %
    Occupancy and equipment     75,538     69,879   8 %   62,103   22 %
    Amortization of other intangibles     42,614     32,461   31 %   28,618   49 %
    Brokerage, clearing and exchange     34,789     29,636   17 %   25,917   34 %
    Professional services     32,055     26,295   22 %   21,572   49 %
    Communications and data processing     18,772     17,916   5 %   17,814   5 %
    Other     58,874     59,724   (1 %)   66,180   (11 %)
    Total expense     3,171,070     2,761,046   15 %   2,350,042   35 %
    INCOME BEFORE PROVISION FOR INCOME TAXES     341,281     347,348   (2 %)   293,787   16 %
    PROVISION FOR INCOME TAXES     70,532     92,045   (23 %)   76,232   (7 %)
    NET INCOME   $ 270,749   $ 255,303   6 % $ 217,555   24 %
    EARNINGS PER SHARE            
    Earnings per share, basic   $ 3.62   $ 3.41   6 % $ 2.89   25 %
    Earnings per share, diluted   $ 3.59   $ 3.39   6 % $ 2.85   26 %
    Weighted-average shares outstanding, basic     74,785     74,776   — %   75,228   (1 %)
    Weighted-average shares outstanding, diluted     75,337     75,405   — %   76,240   (1 %)
    LPL Financial Holdings Inc.
    Consolidated Statements of Income
    (In thousands, except per share data)
    (Unaudited)
     
        Years Ended  
        December 31,  
          2024     2023   Change
    REVENUE        
    Advisory   $ 5,461,858   $ 4,135,681   32 %
    Commission:        
    Sales-based     1,763,232     1,252,783   41 %
    Trailing     1,542,255     1,299,840   19 %
    Total commission     3,305,487     2,552,623   29 %
    Asset-based:        
    Client cash     1,426,528     1,509,869   (6 %)
    Other asset-based     1,071,170     867,860   23 %
    Total asset-based     2,497,698     2,377,729   5 %
    Service and fee     552,020     508,437   9 %
    Transaction     236,274     199,939   18 %
    Interest income, net     187,606     159,415   18 %
    Other     144,164     119,024   21 %
    Total revenue     12,385,107     10,052,848   23 %
    EXPENSE        
    Advisory and commission     7,751,006     5,915,807   31 %
    Compensation and benefits     1,136,717     979,681   16 %
    Promotional     589,339     459,233   28 %
    Depreciation and amortization     308,527     246,994   25 %
    Occupancy and equipment     281,210     248,620   13 %
    Interest expense on borrowings     274,181     186,804   47 %
    Amortization of other intangibles     135,234     107,211   26 %
    Brokerage, clearing and exchange     127,941     105,984   21 %
    Professional services     93,729     72,583   29 %
    Communications and data processing     75,838     75,717   — %
    Other     218,493     209,439   4 %
    Total expense     10,992,215     8,608,073   28 %
    INCOME BEFORE PROVISION FOR INCOME TAXES     1,392,892     1,444,775   (4 %)
    PROVISION FOR INCOME TAXES     334,276     378,525   (12 %)
    NET INCOME   $ 1,058,616   $ 1,066,250   (1 %)
    EARNINGS PER SHARE        
    Earnings per share, basic   $ 14.17   $ 13.88   2 %
    Earnings per share, diluted   $ 14.03   $ 13.69   2 %
    Weighted-average shares outstanding, basic     74,713     76,807   (3 %)
    Weighted-average shares outstanding, diluted     75,427     77,861   (3 %)
    LPL Financial Holdings Inc.
    Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition
    (In thousands, except share data)
    (Unaudited)
     
        December 31, 2024 September 30, 2024 December 31, 2023
    ASSETS
    Cash and equivalents   $ 967,079   $ 1,474,954   $ 465,671  
    Cash and equivalents segregated under federal or other regulations     1,597,249     1,382,867     2,007,312  
    Restricted cash     119,724     104,881     108,180  
    Receivables from clients, net     633,834     622,015     588,585  
    Receivables from brokers, dealers and clearing organizations     76,545     53,763     50,069  
    Advisor loans, net     2,281,088     1,913,363     1,479,690  
    Other receivables, net     902,777     802,186     743,317  
    Investment securities ($42,267, $94,694 and $76,088 at fair value at December 31, 2024, September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively)     57,481     111,096     91,311  
    Property and equipment, net     1,210,027     1,144,676     933,091  
    Goodwill     2,172,873     1,868,193     1,856,648  
    Other intangibles, net     1,482,988     782,426     671,585  
    Other assets     1,815,739     1,681,455     1,390,021  
    Total assets   $ 13,317,404   $ 11,941,875   $ 10,385,480  
    LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
    LIABILITIES:        
    Client payables   $ 1,898,665   $ 2,039,140   $ 2,266,176  
    Payables to brokers, dealers and clearing organizations     129,228     211,054     163,337  
    Accrued advisory and commission expenses payable     323,996     252,881     216,541  
    Corporate debt and other borrowings, net     5,494,724     4,441,913     3,734,111  
    Accounts payable and accrued liabilities     588,450     485,927     485,963  
    Other liabilities     1,951,739     1,739,209     1,440,373  
    Total liabilities     10,386,802     9,170,124     8,306,501  
    STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY:        
    Common stock, $0.001 par value; 600,000,000 shares authorized; 130,914,541, 130,779,259 shares and 130,233,328 shares issued at December 31, 2024, September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively     131     131     130  
    Additional paid-in capital     2,066,268     2,059,207     1,987,684  
    Treasury stock, at cost — 56,253,909, 55,968,552 shares and 55,576,970 shares at December 31, 2024, September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively     (4,202,322 )   (4,102,319 )   (3,993,949 )
    Retained earnings     5,066,525     4,814,732     4,085,114  
    Total stockholders’ equity     2,930,602     2,771,751     2,078,979  
    Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity   $ 13,317,404   $ 11,941,875   $ 10,385,480  
    LPL Financial Holdings Inc.
    Management’s Statements of Operations
    (In thousands, except per share data)
    (Unaudited)
     
    Certain information in this release is presented as reviewed by the Company’s management and includes information derived from the Company’s consolidated statements of income, non-GAAP financial measures and operational and performance metrics. For information on non-GAAP financial measures, please see the section titled“Non-GAAP Financial Measures”in this release.
     
        Quarterly Results
        Q4 2024 Q3 2024 Change Q4 2023 Change
    Gross Profit(6)            
    Advisory   $ 1,595,834   $ 1,378,050   16 % $ 1,085,497   47 %
    Trailing commissions     439,668     377,400   16 %   326,454   35 %
    Sales-based commissions     525,795     429,132   23 %   355,958   48 %
    Advisory fees and commissions     2,561,297     2,184,582   17 %   1,767,909   45 %
    Production-based payout(7)     (2,248,674 )   (1,910,634 ) 18 %   (1,548,540 ) 45 %
    Advisory fees and commissions, net of payout     312,623     273,948   14 %   219,369   43 %
    Client cash(8)     397,001     372,333   7 %   373,979   6 %
    Other asset-based(9)     290,962     272,336   7 %   228,473   27 %
    Service and fee     139,119     145,729   (5 %)   130,680   6 %
    Transaction     61,535     58,546   5 %   53,858   14 %
    Interest income, net(10)     28,481     31,428   (9 %)   21,975   30 %
    Other revenue(11)     32,705     3,392   n/m     4,636   n/m  
    Total net advisory fees and commissions and attachment revenue     1,262,426     1,157,712   9 %   1,032,970   22 %
    Brokerage, clearing and exchange expense     (34,789 )   (29,636 ) 17 %   (25,917 ) 34 %
    Gross Profit(6)     1,227,637     1,128,076   9 %   1,007,053   22 %
                 
    G&A Expense            
    Core G&A(12)     421,894     359,134   17 %   364,469   16 %
    Regulatory charges(13)     7,335     24,879   (71 %)   8,905   (18 %)
    Promotional (ongoing)(14)(15)     173,191     175,605   (1 %)   138,457   25 %
    Acquisition costs(15)     37,261     22,243   68 %   34,931   7 %
    Employee share-based compensation     26,067     20,289   28 %   15,535   68 %
    Total G&A     665,748     602,150   11 %   562,297   18 %
    Loss on extinguishment of debt     3,983     —   100 %   —   100 %
    EBITDA(16)     557,906     525,926   6 %   444,756   25 %
    Depreciation and amortization     92,032     78,338   17 %   67,936   35 %
    Amortization of other intangibles     42,614     32,461   31 %   28,618   49 %
    Interest expense on borrowings     81,979     67,779   21 %   54,415   51 %
    INCOME BEFORE PROVISION FOR INCOME TAXES     341,281     347,348   (2 %)   293,787   16 %
    PROVISION FOR INCOME TAXES     70,532     92,045   (23 %)   76,232   (7 %)
    NET INCOME   $ 270,749   $ 255,303   6 % $ 217,555   24 %
    Earnings per share, diluted   $ 3.59   $ 3.39   6 % $ 2.85   26 %
    Weighted-average shares outstanding, diluted     75,337     75,405   — %   76,240   (1 %)
    Adjusted EBITDA(16)   $ 584,783   $ 566,169   3 % $ 479,687   22 %
    Adjusted EPS(17)   $ 4.25   $ 4.16   2 % $ 3.51   21 %
    LPL Financial Holdings Inc.
    Operating Metrics
    (Dollars in billions, except where noted)
    (Unaudited)
     
        Q4 2024 Q3 2024 Change Q4 2023 Change
    Market Drivers            
    S&P 500 Index (end of period)     5,882     5,762   2%   4,770   23%
    Russell 2000 Index (end of period)     2,230     2,230   —%   2,027   10%
    Fed Funds daily effective rate (average bps)     466     527   (61bps)   533   (67bps)
                 
    Advisory and Brokerage Assets(18)            
    Advisory assets   $ 957.0   $ 892.0   7% $ 735.8   30%
    Brokerage assets     783.7     700.1   12%   618.2   27%
    Total Advisory and Brokerage Assets   $ 1,740.7   $ 1,592.1   9% $ 1,354.1   29%
    Advisory as a % of Total Advisory and Brokerage Assets     55.0 %   56.0 % (100bps)   54.3 % 70bps
                 
    Assets by Platform            
    Corporate advisory assets(19)   $ 678.3   $ 618.8   10% $ 496.5   37%
    Independent RIA advisory assets(19)     278.7     273.2   2%   239.3   16%
    Brokerage assets     783.7     700.1   12%   618.2   27%
    Total Advisory and Brokerage Assets   $ 1,740.7   $ 1,592.1   9% $ 1,354.1   29%
                 
    Centrally Managed Assets            
    Centrally managed assets(20)   $ 160.0   $ 138.1   16% $ 112.1   43%
    Centrally Managed as a % of Total Advisory Assets     16.7 %   15.5 % 120bps   15.2 % 150bps
    LPL Financial Holdings Inc.
    Operating Metrics
    (Dollars in billions, except where noted)
    (Unaudited)
     
        Q4 2024 Q3 2024 Change Q4 2023 Change
    Organic Net New Assets (NNA)(21)            
    Organic net new advisory assets   $ 49.3   $ 23.2   n/m $ 20.5   n/m
    Organic net new brokerage assets     18.8     3.8   n/m   4.2   n/m
    Total Organic Net New Assets   $ 68.0   $ 27.0   n/m $ 24.7   n/m
                 
    Acquired Net New Assets(21)            
    Acquired net new advisory assets   $ 21.8   $ 0.5   n/m $ —   n/m
    Acquired net new brokerage assets     67.5     0.1   n/m   —   n/m
    Total Acquired Net New Assets   $ 89.3   $ 0.6   n/m $ —   n/m
                 
    Total Net New Assets(21)            
    Net new advisory assets   $ 71.1   $ 23.7   n/m $ 20.5   n/m
    Net new brokerage assets     86.2     3.8   n/m   4.2   n/m
    Total Net New Assets   $ 157.3   $ 27.5   n/m $ 24.7   n/m
                 
    Net brokerage to advisory conversions(22)   $ 4.8   $ 3.5   n/m $ 2.6   n/m
    Organic advisory NNA annualized growth(23)     22.1 %   11.2 % n/m   12.4 % n/m
    Total organic NNA annualized growth(23)     17.1 %   7.2 % n/m   8.0 % n/m
                 
    Net New Advisory Assets(21)            
    Corporate RIA net new advisory assets   $ 64.5   $ 24.0   n/m $ 15.9   n/m
    Independent RIA net new advisory assets     6.6     (0.3 ) n/m   4.6   n/m
    Total Net New Advisory Assets   $ 71.1   $ 23.7   n/m $ 20.5   n/m
    Centrally managed net new advisory assets(21)   $ 24.9   $ 4.4   n/m $ 3.0   n/m
                 
    Net buy (sell) activity(24)   $ 38.3   $ 37.7   n/m $ 32.8   n/m
     
    Note: Totals may not foot due to rounding.
    LPL Financial Holdings Inc.
    Client Cash Data
    (Dollars in thousands, except where noted)
    (Unaudited)
     
        Q4 2024 Q3 2024 Change Q4 2023 Change
    Client Cash Balances (in billions)(25)            
    Insured cash account sweep   $ 38.3   $ 32.1   19% $ 34.5   11%
    Deposit cash account sweep     10.7     9.6   11%   9.3   15%
    Total Bank Sweep     49.0     41.7   18%   43.8   12%
    Money market sweep     4.3     2.3   87%   2.4   79%
    Total Client Cash Sweep Held by Third Parties     53.3     44.0   21%   46.2   15%
    Client cash account (CCA)(26)     1.8     1.8   —%   2.0   (10%)
    Total Client Cash Balances   $ 55.1   $ 45.8   20% $ 48.2   14%
    Client Cash Balances as a % of Total Assets     3.2 %   2.9 % 30bps   3.6 % (40bps)
     
    Note: Totals may not foot due to rounding.
      Three Months Ended
      December 31, 2024 September 30, 2024 December 31, 2023
    Interest-Earnings Assets Average Balance (in billions) Revenue Net Yield (bps)(27) Average Balance (in billions) Revenue Net Yield (bps)(27) Average Balance (in billions) Revenue Net Yield (bps)(27)
    Insured cash account sweep $ 34.8 $ 292,661 335 $ 31.1 $ 259,503 332 $ 33.3 $ 266,058 317
    Deposit cash account sweep   9.8   83,879 340   9.2   92,765 400   8.9   84,901 379
    Total Bank Sweep   44.6   376,540 336   40.3   352,268 348   42.2   350,959 330
    Money market sweep   3.3   2,277 28   2.3   1,587 28   2.4   1,702 28
    Total Client Cash Held By Third Parties   47.9   378,817 315   42.6   353,855 330   44.6   352,661 314
    Client cash account (CCA)(26)   1.8   18,184 407   1.6   18,478 472   1.8   21,318 475
    Total Client Cash   49.7   397,001 318   44.2   372,333 335   46.4   373,979 320
    Margin receivables   0.6   11,506 829   0.5   11,199 885   0.5   10,874 878
    Other interest revenue   1.3   16,975 524   1.5   20,229 533   0.9   11,101 507
    Total Client Cash and Interest Income, Net $ 51.6 $ 425,482 329 $ 46.2 $ 403,761 348 $ 47.7 $ 395,954 329
     
    Note: Totals may not foot due to rounding.
    LPL Financial Holdings Inc.
    Monthly Metrics
    (Dollars in billions, except where noted)
    (Unaudited)
     
        December 2024 November 2024 Change October 2024 September 2024
    Advisory and Brokerage Assets(18)            
    Advisory assets   $ 957.0   $ 973.8   (2%) $ 910.6   $ 892.0  
    Brokerage assets     783.7     785.6   —%   762.7     700.1  
    Total Advisory and Brokerage Assets   $ 1,740.7   $ 1,759.3   (1%) $ 1,673.3   $ 1,592.1  
                 
    Organic Net New Assets (NNA)(21)            
    Organic net new advisory assets   $ 12.5   $ 27.9   n/m $ 8.8   $ 11.0  
    Organic net new brokerage assets     12.9     6.3   n/m   (0.5 )   0.5  
    Total Organic Net New Assets   $ 25.5   $ 34.2   n/m $ 8.3   $ 11.4  
                 
    Acquired Net New Assets(21)            
    Acquired net new advisory assets   $ —   $ 0.5   n/m $ 21.3   $ 0.2  
    Acquired net new brokerage assets     0.2     0.3   n/m   67.0   $ 0.1  
    Total Acquired Net New Assets   $ 0.3   $ 0.8   n/m $ 88.3   $ 0.3  
                 
    Total Net New Assets(21)            
    Net new advisory assets   $ 12.6   $ 28.4   n/m $ 30.1   $ 11.2  
    Net new brokerage assets     13.2     6.6   n/m   66.5     0.5  
    Total Net New Assets   $ 25.8   $ 35.0   n/m $ 96.6   $ 11.7  
    Net brokerage to advisory conversions(22)   $ 2.0   $ 1.7   n/m $ 1.1   $ 1.2  
                 
    Client Cash Balances(25)            
    Insured cash account sweep   $ 38.3   $ 34.8   10% $ 34.7   $ 32.1  
    Deposit cash account sweep     10.7     9.9   8%   9.7     9.6  
    Total Bank Sweep     49.0     44.7   10%   44.4     41.7  
    Money market sweep     4.3     4.3   —%   2.6     2.3  
    Total Client Cash Sweep Held by Third Parties     53.3     49.0   9%   47.0     44.0  
    Client cash account (CCA)(26)     1.8     1.5   20%   1.3     1.8  
    Total Client Cash Balances     55.1     50.5   9%   48.3     45.8  
                 
    Net buy (sell) activity(24)   $ 13.5   $ 12.4   n/m $ 12.5   $ 12.2  
                 
    Market Drivers            
    S&P 500 Index (end of period)     5,882     6,032   (2%)   5,705     5,762  
    Russell 2000 Index (end of period)     2,230     2,435   (8%)   2,197     2,230  
    Fed Funds effective rate (average bps)     448     465   (17bps)   483     513  
     
    Note: Totals may not foot due to rounding.
    LPL Financial Holdings Inc.
    Financial Measures
    (Dollars in thousands, except where noted)
    (Unaudited)
     
        Q4 2024 Q3 2024 Change Q4 2023 Change
    Commission Revenue by Product            
    Annuities   $ 561,918   $ 481,852   17% $ 408,480   38%
    Mutual funds     232,529     193,451   20%   167,392   39%
    Fixed income     59,332     55,707   7%   40,441   47%
    Equities     45,829     36,786   25%   29,920   53%
    Other     65,855     38,736   70%   36,179   82%
    Total commission revenue   $ 965,463   $ 806,532   20% $ 682,412   41%
                 
    Commission Revenue by Sales-based and Trailing      
    Sales-based commissions            
    Annuities   $ 314,591   $ 265,955   18% $ 221,070   42%
    Mutual funds     52,908     42,310   25%   37,016   43%
    Fixed income     59,332     55,707   7%   40,441   47%
    Equities     45,829     36,786   25%   29,920   53%
    Other     53,135     28,374   87%   27,511   93%
    Total sales-based commissions   $ 525,795   $ 429,132   23% $ 355,958   48%
    Trailing commissions            
    Annuities   $ 247,327   $ 215,897   15% $ 187,410   32%
    Mutual funds     179,621     151,141   19%   130,376   38%
    Other     12,720     10,362   23%   8,668   47%
    Total trailing commissions   $ 439,668   $ 377,400   16% $ 326,454   35%
    Total commission revenue   $ 965,463   $ 806,532   20% $ 682,412   41%
                 
    Payout Rate(7)     87.79 %   87.46 % 33bps   87.59 % 20bps
    LPL Financial Holdings Inc.
    Capital Management Measures
    (Dollars in thousands, except where noted)
    (Unaudited)
     
        Q4 2024 Q3 2024 Q4 2023
    Cash and equivalents   $ 967,079   $ 1,474,954   $ 465,671  
    Cash at regulated subsidiaries     (884,779 )   (992,450 )   (410,313 )
    Excess cash at regulated subsidiaries per the Credit Agreement     397,138     225,886     128,327  
    Corporate Cash(3)   $ 479,438   $ 708,390   $ 183,685  
             
    Corporate Cash(3)        
    Cash at the Parent   $ 39,782   $ 435,109   $ 26,587  
    Excess cash at regulated subsidiaries per the Credit Agreement     397,138     225,886     128,327  
    Cash at non-regulated subsidiaries     42,518     47,395     28,771  
    Corporate Cash   $ 479,438   $ 708,390   $ 183,685  
             
    Leverage Ratio        
    Total debt   $ 5,517,000   $ 4,469,175   $ 3,757,200  
    Total corporate cash     479,438     708,390     183,685  
    Credit Agreement Net Debt   $ 5,037,562   $ 3,760,785   $ 3,573,515  
    Credit Agreement EBITDA (trailing twelve months)(28)   $ 2,665,033   $ 2,340,886   $ 2,194,807  
    Leverage Ratio   1.89x 1.61x 1.63x
        December 31, 2024  
    Total Debt   Balance Current Applicable
    Margin
    Interest Rate Maturity
    Revolving Credit Facility(a)   $ 1,047,000   ABR+37.5 bps / SOFR+147.5 bps 6.007 % 5/20/2029
    Broker-Dealer Revolving Credit Facility     —   SOFR+135 bps 5.840 % 5/19/2025
    Senior Unsecured Term Loan A     1,020,000   SOFR+147.5 bps(b) 6.000 % 12/5/2026
    Senior Unsecured Notes     500,000   5.700% Fixed 5.700 % 5/20/2027
    Senior Unsecured Notes     400,000   4.625% Fixed 4.625 % 11/15/2027
    Senior Unsecured Notes     750,000   6.750% Fixed 6.750 % 11/17/2028
    Senior Unsecured Notes     900,000   4.000% Fixed 4.000 % 3/15/2029
    Senior Unsecured Notes     400,000   4.375% Fixed 4.375 % 5/15/2031
    Senior Unsecured Notes     500,000   6.000% Fixed 6.000 % 5/20/2034
    Total / Weighted Average   $ 5,517,000     5.532 %  
     
    (a) Secured borrowing capacity of $2.25 billion at LPL Holdings, Inc. (the “Parent”).
    (b) The SOFR rate option is a one-month SOFR rate and subject to an interest rate floor of 0 bps.
    LPL Financial Holdings Inc.
    Key Business and Financial Metrics
    (Dollars in thousands, except where noted)
    (Unaudited)
     
        Q4 2024 Q3 2024 Change Q4 2023 Change
    Advisors            
    Advisors     28,888     23,686   22%   22,660   27%
    Net new advisors     5,202     224   n/m   256   n/m
    Annualized advisory fees and commissions per advisor(29)   $ 390   $ 371   5% $ 314   24%
    Average total assets per advisor ($ in millions)(30)   $ 60.3   $ 67.2   (10%) $ 59.8   1%
    Transition assistance loan amortization ($ in millions)(31)   $ 76.3   $ 69.1   10% $ 55.1   38%
    Total client accounts (in millions)     10.0     8.7   15%   8.3   20%
                 
    Employees     7,780     7,342   6%   7,372   6%
                 
    Services Group            
    Services Group subscriptions(32)            
    Professional Services     1,925     1,890   2%   1,895   2%
    Business Optimizers     3,980     3,798   5%   3,363   18%
    Planning and Advice     799     735   9%   548   46%
    Total Services Group subscriptions     6,704     6,423   4%   5,806   15%
    Services Group advisor count     4,521     4,340   4%   3,850   17%
                 
    AUM retention rate (quarterly annualized)(33)     97.3 %   97.0 % 30bps   98.4 % (110bps)
                 
    Capital Management            
    Capital expenditures ($ in millions)(34)   $ 165.5   $ 147.1   13% $ 105.9   56%
    Acquisitions, net ($ in millions)(35)   $ 847.9   $ 34.1   n/m $ 92.9   n/m
                 
    Share repurchases ($ in millions)   $ 100.0   $ —   100% $ 225.0   (56%)
    Dividends ($ in millions)     22.5     22.4   —%   22.6   —%
    Total Capital Returned ($ in millions)   $ 122.5   $ 22.4   n/m $ 247.6   (51%)


    Non-GAAP Financial Measures

    Management believes that presenting certain non-GAAP financial measures by excluding or including certain items can be helpful to investors and analysts who may wish to use this information to analyze the Company’s current performance, prospects and valuation. Management uses this non-GAAP information internally to evaluate operating performance and in formulating the budget for future periods. Management believes that the non-GAAP financial measures and metrics discussed below are appropriate for evaluating the performance of the Company.

    Adjusted EPS and Adjusted net income

    Adjusted EPS is defined as adjusted net income, a non-GAAP measure defined as net income plus the after-tax impact of amortization of other intangibles, acquisition costs, certain regulatory charges, losses on extinguishment of debt, and amounts related to the departure of the Company’s former Chief Executive Officer, divided by the weighted average number of diluted shares outstanding for the applicable period. The Company presents adjusted net income and adjusted EPS because management believes that these metrics can provide investors with useful insight into the Company’s core operating performance by excluding non-cash items, acquisition costs, and certain other charges that management does not believe impact the Company’s ongoing operations. Adjusted net income and adjusted EPS are not measures of the Company’s financial performance under GAAP and should not be considered as alternatives to net income, earnings per diluted share or any other performance measure derived in accordance with GAAP. For a reconciliation of net income and earnings per diluted share to adjusted net income and adjusted EPS, please see the endnote disclosures in this release.

    Gross profit

    Gross profit is calculated as total revenue less advisory and commission expense; brokerage, clearing and exchange expense; and market fluctuations on employee deferred compensation. All other expense categories, including depreciation and amortization of property and equipment and amortization of other intangibles, are considered general and administrative in nature. Because the Company’s gross profit amounts do not include any depreciation and amortization expense, the Company considers gross profit to be a non-GAAP financial measure that may not be comparable to similar measures used by others in its industry. Management believes that gross profit can provide investors with useful insight into the Company’s core operating performance before indirect costs that are general and administrative in nature. For a calculation of gross profit, please see the endnote disclosures in this release.

    Core G&A

    Core G&A consists of total expense less the following expenses: advisory and commission; depreciation and amortization; interest expense on borrowings; brokerage, clearing and exchange; amortization of other intangibles; market fluctuations on employee deferred compensation; losses on extinguishment of debt; promotional (ongoing); employee share-based compensation; regulatory charges; and acquisition costs. Management presents core G&A because it believes core G&A reflects the corporate expense categories over which management can generally exercise a measure of control, compared with expense items over which management either cannot exercise control, such as advisory and commission, or which management views as promotional expense necessary to support advisor growth and retention, including conferences and transition assistance. Core G&A is not a measure of the Company’s total expense as calculated in accordance with GAAP. For a reconciliation of the Company’s total expense to core G&A, please see the endnote disclosures in this release. The Company does not provide an outlook for its total expense because it contains expense components, such as advisory and commission, that are market-driven and over which the Company cannot exercise control. Accordingly, a reconciliation of the Company’s outlook for total expense to an outlook for core G&A cannot be made available without unreasonable effort.

    EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA

    EBITDA is defined as net income plus interest expense on borrowings, provision for income taxes, depreciation and amortization, and amortization of other intangibles. Adjusted EBITDA is defined as EBITDA, a non-GAAP measure, plus acquisition costs, certain regulatory charges, amounts related to the departure of the Company’s former Chief Executive Officer, and losses on extinguishment of debt. The Company presents EBITDA and adjusted EBITDA because management believes that they can be useful financial metrics in understanding the Company’s earnings from operations. EBITDA and adjusted EBITDA are not measures of the Company’s financial performance under GAAP and should not be considered as alternatives to net income or any other performance measure derived in accordance with GAAP. For a reconciliation of net income to EBITDA and adjusted EBITDA, please see the endnote disclosures in this release.

    Credit Agreement EBITDA

    Credit Agreement EBITDA is defined in, and calculated by management in accordance with, the Company’s amended and restated credit agreement (“Credit Agreement”) as “Consolidated EBITDA,” which is Consolidated Net Income (as defined in the Credit Agreement) plus interest expense on borrowings, provision for income taxes, depreciation and amortization, and amortization of other intangibles, and is further adjusted to exclude certain non-cash charges and other adjustments, and to include future expected cost savings, operating expense reductions or other synergies from certain transactions. The Company presents Credit Agreement EBITDA because management believes that it can be a useful financial metric in understanding the Company’s debt capacity and covenant compliance under its Credit Agreement. Credit Agreement EBITDA is not a measure of the Company’s financial performance under GAAP and should not be considered as an alternative to net income or any other performance measure derived in accordance with GAAP. For a reconciliation of net income to Credit Agreement EBITDA, please see the endnote disclosures in this release.

    Endnote Disclosures

    (1) Represents the estimated total advisory and brokerage assets expected to transition to the Company’s primary broker-dealer subsidiary, LPL Financial, in connection with advisors who transferred their licenses to LPL Financial during the period. The estimate is based on prior business reported by the advisors, which has not been independently and fully verified by LPL Financial. The actual transition of assets to LPL Financial generally occurs over several quarters and the actual amount transitioned may vary from the estimate.

    (2) The terms “Financial Advisors” and “Advisors” refer to registered representatives and/or investment advisor representatives affiliated with LPL Financial, an SEC-registered broker-dealer and investment advisor, or one of Atria’s seven introducing broker-dealer subsidiaries.

    (3) Corporate cash, a component of cash and equivalents, is the sum of cash and equivalents from the following: (1) cash and equivalents held at LPL Holdings, Inc., (2) cash and equivalents held at regulated subsidiaries as defined by the Company’s Credit Agreement, which include LPL Financial, LPL Enterprise, LLC, The Private Trust Company, N.A. and certain of Atria’s introducing broker-dealer subsidiaries, in excess of the capital requirements of the Company’s Credit Agreement and (3) cash and equivalents held at non-regulated subsidiaries.

    (4) Compliance with the Leverage Ratio is only required under the Company’s revolving credit facility.

    (5) The Company was named a Top RIA custodian (Cerulli Associates, 2024 U.S. RIA Marketplace Report); No. 1 Independent Broker-Dealer in the U.S. (based on total revenues, Financial Planning magazine 1996-2022); and, among third-party providers of brokerage services to banks and credit unions, No. 1 in AUM Growth from Financial Institutions; No. 1 in Market Share of AUM from Financial Institutions; No. 1 in Market Share of Revenue from Financial Institutions; No. 1 on Financial Institution Market Share; No. 1 on Share of Advisors (2021-2022 Kehrer Bielan Research and Consulting Annual TPM Report). Fortune 500 as of June 2021.

    (6) Gross profit is a non-GAAP financial measure. Please see a description of gross profit under the “Non-GAAP Financial Measures” section of this release for additional information. Below is a calculation of gross profit for the periods presented (in thousands):

        Q4 2024 Q3 2024 Q4 2023
    Total revenue(a)   $ 3,512,351   $ 3,108,394   $ 2,643,829  
    Advisory and commission expense     2,250,427     1,948,065     1,607,978  
    Brokerage, clearing and exchange expense     34,789     29,636     25,917  
    Employee deferred compensation     (502 )   2,617     2,881  
    Gross profit(a)   $ 1,227,637   $ 1,128,076   $ 1,007,053  

    (a) The departure of the Company’s former Chief Executive Officer resulted in other income of $26.4 million during the three months ended December 31, 2024 related to the clawback of share-based compensation awards.

    Below is a calculation of gross profit for the years presented (in thousands):

        Years Ended December 31,
          2024     2023  
    Total revenue(a)   $ 12,385,107   $ 10,052,848  
    Advisory and commission expense     7,751,006     5,915,807  
    Brokerage, clearing and exchange expense     127,941     105,984  
    Employee deferred compensation     4,815     4,101  
    Gross profit(a)   $ 4,501,345   $ 4,026,956  

    (a) The departure of the Company’s former Chief Executive Officer resulted in other income of $26.4 million during the three months ended December 31, 2024 related to the clawback of share-based compensation awards.

    (7) Production-based payout is a financial measure calculated as advisory and commission expense plus (less) advisor deferred compensation. The payout rate is calculated by dividing the production-based payout by total advisory and commission revenue. Below is a reconciliation of the Company’s advisory and commission expense to the production-based payout and a calculation of the payout rate for the periods presented (in thousands, except payout rate):

        Q4 2024 Q3 2024 Q4 2023
    Advisory and commission expense   $ 2,250,427   $ 1,948,065   $ 1,607,978  
    Less: Advisor deferred compensation     (1,753 )   (37,431 )   (59,438 )
    Production-based payout   $ 2,248,674   $ 1,910,634   $ 1,548,540  
             
    Advisory and commission revenue   $ 2,561,297   $ 2,184,582   $ 1,767,909  
             
    Payout rate     87.79 %   87.46 %   87.59 %

    (8) Below is a reconciliation of client cash revenue per Management’s Statements of Operations to client cash revenue, a component of asset-based revenue, on the Company’s consolidated statements of income for the periods presented (in thousands):

        Q4 2024 Q3 2024 Q4 2023
    Client cash on Management’s Statement of Operations   $ 397,001   $ 372,333   $ 373,979  
    Interest income on CCA balances segregated under federal or other regulations(10)     (18,185 )   (18,478 )   (21,318 )
    Client cash on Consolidated Statements of Income   $ 378,816   $ 353,855   $ 352,661  

    (9) Consists of revenue from the Company’s sponsorship programs with financial product manufacturers, omnibus processing and networking services but does not include fees from client cash programs.

    (10) During the first quarter of 2024, the Company disaggregated the activity previously reported in the interest income and other, net line item into its interest income, net and other revenue components. Prior period amounts have been reclassified to conform to the current presentation. Below is a reconciliation of interest income, net per Management’s Statements of Operations to interest income, net on the Company’s consolidated statements of income for the periods presented (in thousands):

        Q4 2024 Q3 2024 Q4 2023
    Interest income, net on Management’s Statement of Operations   $ 28,481   $ 31,428   $ 21,975  
    Interest income on CCA balances segregated under federal or other regulations(8)     18,185     18,478     21,318  
    Interest income on deferred compensation     14     17     19  
    Interest income, net on Consolidated Statements of Income   $ 46,680   $ 49,923   $ 43,312  

    (11) During the first quarter of 2024, the Company disaggregated the activity previously reported in the interest income and other, net line item into its interest income, net and other revenue components. Prior period amounts have been reclassified to conform to the current presentation. Below is a reconciliation of other revenue per Management’s Statements of Operations to other revenue on the Company’s consolidated statements of income for the periods presented (in thousands):

        Q4 2024 Q3 2024 Q4 2023
    Other revenue on Management’s Statement of Operations(a)   $ 32,705   $ 3,392   $ 4,636  
    Interest income on deferred compensation     (14 )   (17 )   (19 )
    Deferred compensation     1,251     40,048     62,319  
    Other revenue on Consolidated Statements of Income   $ 33,942   $ 43,423   $ 66,936  

    (a) The departure of the Company’s former Chief Executive Officer resulted in other income of $26.4 million during the three months ended December 31, 2024 related to the clawback of share-based compensation awards.

    (12) Core G&A is a non-GAAP financial measure. Please see a description of core G&A under the “Non-GAAP Financial Measures” section of this release for additional information. Below is a reconciliation of the Company’s total expense to core G&A for the periods presented (in thousands):

        Q4 2024 Q3 2024 Q4 2023
    Core G&A Reconciliation        
    Total expense   $ 3,171,070   $ 2,761,046   $ 2,350,042  
    Advisory and commission     (2,250,427 )   (1,948,065 )   (1,607,978 )
    Depreciation and amortization     (92,032 )   (78,338 )   (67,936 )
    Interest expense on borrowings     (81,979 )   (67,779 )   (54,415 )
    Brokerage, clearing and exchange     (34,789 )   (29,636 )   (25,917 )
    Amortization of other intangibles     (42,614 )   (32,461 )   (28,618 )
    Employee deferred compensation     502     (2,617 )   (2,881 )
    Loss on extinguishment of debt     (3,983 )   (— )   (— )
    Total G&A     665,748     602,150     562,297  
    Promotional (ongoing)(14)(15)     (173,191 )   (175,605 )   (138,457 )
    Acquisition costs(15)     (37,261 )   (22,243 )   (34,931 )
    Employee share-based compensation     (26,067 )   (20,289 )   (15,535 )
    Regulatory charges(13)     (7,335 )   (24,879 )   (8,905 )
    Core G&A   $ 421,894   $ 359,134   $ 364,469  

    Below is a reconciliation of the Company’s total expense to core G&A for the years presented (in thousands):

        Years Ended December 31,
          2024     2023  
    Core G&A Reconciliation      
    Total expense   $ 10,992,215   $ 8,608,073  
    Advisory and commission     (7,751,006 )   (5,915,807 )
    Depreciation and amortization     (308,527 )   (246,994 )
    Interest expense on borrowings     (274,181 )   (186,804 )
    Amortization of other intangibles     (135,234 )   (107,211 )
    Brokerage, clearing and exchange     (127,941 )   (105,984 )
    Employee deferred compensation     (4,815 )   (4,101 )
    Loss on extinguishment of debt     (3,983 )   —  
    Total G&A     2,386,528     2,041,172  
    Promotional (ongoing)(14)(15)     (628,938 )   (486,326 )
    Regulatory charges(13)     (47,278 )   (71,320 )
    Employee share-based compensation     (88,957 )   (66,024 )
    Acquisition costs(15)     (105,905 )   (48,103 )
    Core G&A   $ 1,515,450   $ 1,369,399  

    (13) Regulatory charges for the three months ended September 30, 2024 and year ended December 31, 2024 include charges related to a settlement with the SEC to resolve the Company’s civil investigation of certain elements of the Company’s Anti-Money Laundering (“AML”) compliance program. The Company has recorded an $18.0 million charge for the quarter ended September 30, 2024 and reached a settlement with the staff of the SEC and paid the civil monetary penalty in January 2025. Regulatory charges for the year ended December 31, 2023 include a $40.0 million charge to reflect the amount of the penalty related to the SEC’s civil investigation of the Company’s compliance with records preservation requirements for business-related electronic communications that was not covered by the Company’s captive insurance subsidiary. The Company reached a settlement with the staff of the SEC and paid the civil monetary penalty of $50.0 million in August 2024.

    (14) Promotional (ongoing) includes $13.4 million, $13.0 million and $12.5 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024, September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively, of support costs related to full-time employees that are classified within Compensation and benefits expense in the consolidated statements of income and excludes costs that have been incurred as part of acquisitions that have been classified within acquisition costs. Promotional (ongoing) includes $46.6 million and $30.7 million of such support costs for the twelve months ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively.

    (15) Acquisition costs include the costs to setup, onboard and integrate acquired entities and other costs that were incurred as a result of the acquisitions. The below table summarizes the primary components of acquisition costs for the periods presented (in thousands):

        Q4 2024 Q3 2024 Q4 2023
    Acquisition costs        
    Fair value mark on contingent consideration(36)   $ 11,249   $ 5,849   $ 26,712  
    Compensation and benefits     15,950     8,352     2,829  
    Professional services     7,357     6,685     3,664  
    Promotional(14)     2,235     1,964     863  
    Other     470     (607 )   863  
    Acquisition costs   $ 37,261   $ 22,243   $ 34,931  

    The below table summarizes the primary components of acquisition costs for the years presented (in thousands):

        Years Ended December 31,
          2024     2023  
    Acquisition costs      
    Fair value mark on contingent consideration(36)   $ 41,721   $ 26,712  
    Professional services     20,855     10,044  
    Compensation and benefits     34,980     6,069  
    Promotional(14)     7,006     3,593  
    Other     1,343     1,685  
    Acquisition costs   $ 105,905   $ 48,103  

    (16) EBITDA and adjusted EBITDA are non-GAAP financial measures. Please see a description of EBITDA and adjusted EBITDA under the “Non-GAAP Financial Measures” section of this release for additional information. Below is a reconciliation of net income to EBITDA and adjusted EBITDA for the periods presented (in thousands):

        Q4 2024 Q3 2024 Q4 2023
    EBITDA and adjusted EBITDA Reconciliation        
    Net income   $ 270,749   $ 255,303   $ 217,555  
    Interest expense on borrowings     81,979     67,779     54,415  
    Provision for income taxes     70,532     92,045     76,232  
    Depreciation and amortization     92,032     78,338     67,936  
    Amortization of other intangibles     42,614     32,461     28,618  
    EBITDA   $ 557,906   $ 525,926   $ 444,756  
    Regulatory charges(13)     —     18,000     —  
    Acquisition costs(15)     37,261     22,243     34,931  
    Departure of former Chief Executive Officer(a)     (14,367 )   —     —  
    Loss on extinguishment of debt     3,983     —     —  
    Adjusted EBITDA   $ 584,783   $ 566,169   $ 479,687  

    (a) The departure of the Company’s former Chief Executive Officer resulted in other income of $26.4 million during the three months ended December 31, 2024 related to the clawback of share-based compensation awards which was offset by share-based compensation expense of $12.0 million related to the modification of certain stock options that were retained as per the settlement agreement that the Company reached with the former Chief Executive Officer.

    The below table is a reconciliation of net income to EBITDA and adjusted EBITDA for the years presented (in thousands):

          2024     2023  
    EBITDA and adjusted EBITDA Reconciliation      
    Net income   $ 1,058,616   $ 1,066,250  
    Interest expense on borrowings     274,181     186,804  
    Provision for income taxes     334,276     378,525  
    Depreciation and amortization     308,527     246,994  
    Amortization of other intangibles     135,234     107,211  
    EBITDA   $ 2,110,834   $ 1,985,784  
    Regulatory charges(13)     18,000     40,000  
    Acquisition costs(15)     105,905     48,103  
    Departure of former Chief Executive Officer(a)     (14,367 )   —  
    Loss on extinguishment of debt     3,983     —  
    Adjusted EBITDA   $ 2,224,355   $ 2,073,887  

    (a) The departure of the Company’s former Chief Executive Officer resulted in other income of $26.4 million during the three months ended December 31, 2024 related to the clawback of share-based compensation awards which was offset by share-based compensation expense of $12.0 million related to the modification of certain stock options that were retained as per the settlement agreement that the Company reached with the former Chief Executive Officer.

    (17) Adjusted net income and adjusted EPS are non-GAAP financial measures. Please see a description of adjusted net income and adjusted EPS under the “Non-GAAP Financial Measures” section of this release for additional information. Below is a reconciliation of net income and earnings per diluted share to adjusted net income and adjusted EPS for the periods presented (in thousands, except per share data):

        Q4 2024 Q3 2024 Q4 2023
        Amount Per Share Amount Per Share Amount Per Share
    Net income / earnings per diluted share   $ 270,749   $ 3.59   $ 255,303   $ 3.39   $ 217,555   $ 2.85  
    Regulatory charges(13)     —     —     18,000     0.24     —     —  
    Amortization of other intangibles     42,614     0.57     32,461     0.43     28,618     0.38  
    Acquisition costs(15)     37,261     0.49     22,243     0.29     34,931     0.46  
    Departure of former Chief Executive Officer(a)     (14,367 )   (0.19 )   —     —     —     —  
    Loss on extinguishment of debt     3,983     0.05     —     —     —     —  
    Tax benefit     (19,978 )   (0.27 )   (14,650 )   (0.19 )   (13,789 )   (0.18 )
    Adjusted net income / adjusted EPS   $ 320,262   $ 4.25   $ 313,357   $ 4.16   $ 267,315   $ 3.51  
    Diluted share count     75,337       75,405       76,240    
    Note: Totals may not foot due to rounding.              

    (a) The departure of the Company’s former Chief Executive Officer resulted in other income of $26.4 million during the three months ended December 31, 2024 related to the clawback of share-based compensation awards which was offset by share-based compensation expense of $12.0 million related to the modification of certain stock options that were retained as per the settlement agreement that the Company reached with the former Chief Executive Officer.

    Below is a reconciliation of net income and earnings per diluted share to adjusted net income and adjusted EPS for the years presented (in thousands, except per share data):

        Years Ended December 31,
          2024     2023  
        Amount Per Share Amount Per Share
    Net income / earnings per diluted share   $ 1,058,616   $ 14.03   $ 1,066,250   $ 13.69  
    Regulatory charges(13)     18,000     0.24     40,000     0.51  
    Amortization of other intangibles     135,234     1.79     107,211     1.38  
    Acquisition costs(15)     105,905     1.40     48,103     0.62  
    Departure of former Chief Executive Officer(a)     (14,367 )   (0.19 )   —     —  
    Loss on extinguishment of debt     3,983     0.05     —     —  
    Tax benefit     (62,089 )   (0.82 )   (37,418 )   (0.48 )
    Adjusted net income / adjusted EPS   $ 1,245,282   $ 16.51   $ 1,224,146   $ 15.72  
    Diluted share count     75,427       77,861    
    Note: Totals may not foot due to rounding.          

    (a) The departure of the Company’s former Chief Executive Officer resulted in other income of $26.4 million during the three months ended December 31, 2024 related to the clawback of share-based compensation awards which was offset by share-based compensation expense of $12.0 million related to the modification of certain stock options that were retained as per the settlement agreement that the Company reached with the former Chief Executive Officer.

    (18) Consists of total advisory and brokerage assets under custody at the Company’s primary broker-dealer subsidiary, LPL Financial, as well as assets under custody of a third-party custodian related to Atria’s seven introducing broker-dealer subsidiaries.

    (19) Assets on the Company’s corporate advisory platform are serviced by investment advisor representatives of LPL Financial. Assets on the Company’s independent RIA advisory platform are serviced by investment advisor representatives of separate registered investment advisor firms rather than representatives of LPL Financial.

    (20) Consists of advisory assets in LPL Financial’s Model Wealth Portfolios, Optimum Market Portfolios, Personal Wealth Portfolios and Guided Wealth Portfolios platforms.

    (21) Consists of total client deposits into advisory or brokerage accounts less total client withdrawals from advisory or brokerage accounts, plus dividends, plus interest, minus advisory fees. The Company considers conversions from and to brokerage or advisory accounts as deposits and withdrawals, respectively.

    (22) Consists of existing custodied assets that converted from brokerage to advisory, less existing custodied assets that converted from advisory to brokerage.

    (23) Calculated as annualized current period organic net new assets divided by preceding period assets in their respective categories of advisory assets or total advisory and brokerage assets.

    (24) Represents the amount of securities purchased less the amount of securities sold in client accounts custodied with LPL Financial.

    (25) Client cash balances include CCA and exclude purchased money market funds. CCA balances include cash that clients have deposited with LPL Financial that is included in Client payables in the consolidated balance sheets. The following table presents purchased money market funds for the periods presented (in billions):

        Q4 2024 Q3 2024 Q4 2023
    Purchased money market funds   $ 41.0   $ 38.5   $ 29.5  

    (26) During the first quarter of 2024, the Company updated its definition of client cash account balances to exclude other client payables. Prior period disclosures have been updated to reflect this change as applicable.

    (27) Calculated by dividing revenue for the period by the average balance during the period.

    (28) EBITDA and Credit Agreement EBITDA are non-GAAP financial measures. Please see a description of EBITDA and Credit Agreement EBITDA under the “Non-GAAP Financial Measures” section of this release for additional information. Under the Credit Agreement, management calculates Credit Agreement EBITDA for a trailing twelve month period at the end of each fiscal quarter and in doing so may make further adjustments to prior quarters. Below are reconciliations of trailing twelve month net income to trailing twelve month EBITDA and Credit Agreement EBITDA for the periods presented (in thousands):

        Q4 2024 Q3 2024 Q4 2023
    EBITDA and Credit Agreement EBITDA Reconciliations        
    Net income   $ 1,058,616   $ 1,005,422   $ 1,066,250  
    Interest expense on borrowings     274,181     246,618     186,804  
    Provision for income taxes     334,276     339,977     378,525  
    Depreciation and amortization     308,527     284,431     246,994  
    Amortization of other intangibles     135,234     121,238     107,211  
    EBITDA   $ 2,110,834   $ 1,997,686   $ 1,985,784  
    Credit Agreement Adjustments:        
    Acquisition costs and other(15)(37)   $ 223,614   $ 236,007   $ 110,170  
    Employee share-based compensation     88,957     78,425     66,024  
    M&A accretion(38)     235,048     26,265     30,268  
    Advisor share-based compensation     2,597     2,503     2,561  
    Loss on extinguishment of debt     3,983     —     —  
    Credit Agreement EBITDA   $ 2,665,033   $ 2,340,886   $ 2,194,807  

    (29) Calculated based on the average advisor count from the current period and prior periods.

    (30) Calculated based on the end of period total advisory and brokerage assets divided by end of period advisor count.

    (31) Represents amortization expense on forgivable loans for transition assistance to advisors and institutions.

    (32) Refers to active subscriptions related to professional services offerings (CFO Solutions, Marketing Solutions, Admin Solutions, Advisor Institute, Bookkeeping, Partial Book Sales, CFO Essentials, Digital Marketing, Payroll Services and HR Solutions) and business optimizer offerings (M&A Solutions, Digital Office, Resilience Plans and Assurance Plans), as well as planning and advice services (Paraplanning, Tax Planning, and High Net Worth Services) for which subscriptions are the number of advisors using the service.

    (33) Reflects retention of total advisory and brokerage assets, calculated by deducting quarterly annualized attrition from total advisory and brokerage assets, divided by the prior quarter total advisory and brokerage assets.

    (34) Capital expenditures represent cash payments for property and equipment during the period.

    (35) Acquisitions, net represent cash paid for acquisitions, net of cash acquired during the period.

    (36) Represents a fair value adjustment to our contingent consideration liabilities that is reflected in other expense in the consolidated statements of income.

    (37) Acquisition costs and other primarily include acquisition costs, costs incurred related to the integration of the strategic relationship with Prudential, a $26.4 million reduction related to the departure of the Company’s former Chief Executive Officer and related clawback of share-based compensation awards, an $18.0 million regulatory charge recognized during the three months ended September 30, 2024 reflecting the amount of a penalty proposed by the SEC as part of its civil investigation of the Company’s compliance with certain elements of the Company’s AML compliance program, and a $40.0 million regulatory charge recognized during the three months ended September 30, 2023 to reflect the amount of a penalty proposed by the SEC as part of its civil investigation of the Company’s compliance with records preservation requirements for business-related electronic communications stored on personal devices that have not been approved by the Company.

    (38) M&A accretion is an adjustment to reflect the annualized expected run rate EBITDA of an acquisition as permitted by the Credit Agreement for up to eight fiscal quarters following the close of the transaction.

    The MIL Network –

    January 31, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Arbor Realty Trust Announces Tax Treatment of 2024 Dividends

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    UNIONDALE, N.Y., Jan. 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Arbor Realty Trust, Inc. (NYSE: ABR), today announced the tax treatment of its 2024 dividend distributions for common and preferred shares of beneficial interest.

    For tax reporting purposes, 100% of the distributions paid on our common stock during 2024 will be classified as dividend income. The 2024 taxable distributions with respect to our common stock traded under ticker symbol ABR are summarized as follows:

    Common Shares (CUSIP #038923108)
    Record Date   Payment Date   Total Distribution Per Share   Non-Qualified Dividend (1)   Qualified Dividend   Capital Gain Distribution
    3/4/2024   3/15/2024   $ 0.43     $ 0.43     $ 0.00     $ 0.00  
    5/17/2024   5/31/2024     0.43       0.43       0.00       0.00  
    8/16/2024   8/30/2024     0.43       0.43       0.00       0.00  
    11/15/2024   11/27/2024     0.43       0.43       0.00       0.00  
            $ 1.72     $ 1.72     $ 0.00     $ 0.00  
                                         

    The 2024 taxable distributions with respect to our 6.375% Series D Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Stock traded under ticker symbol ABR-PD are summarized as follows:

    6.375% Series D Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Stock (CUSIP #038923876)
    Record Date   Payment Date   Total Distribution Per Share   Non-Qualified Dividend (1)   Qualified Dividend   Capital Gain Distribution
    1/15/2024   1/30/2024   $ 0.3984375     $ 0.3984375     $ 0.00     $ 0.00  
    4/15/2024   4/30/2024     0.3984375       0.3984375       0.00       0.00  
    7/15/2024   7/30/2024     0.3984375       0.3984375       0.00       0.00  
    10/15/2024   10/30/2024     0.3984375       0.3984375       0.00       0.00  
            $ 1.5937500     $ 1.5937500     $ 0.00     $ 0.00  
                                         

    The 2024 taxable distributions with respect to our 6.25% Series E Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Stock traded under ticker symbol ABR-PE are summarized as follows:

    6.25% Series E Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Stock (CUSIP #038923868)
    Record Date   Payment Date   Total Distribution Per Share   Non-Qualified Dividend (1)   Qualified Dividend   Capital Gain Distribution
    1/15/2024   1/30/2024   $ 0.390625     $ 0.390625     $ 0.00     $ 0.00  
    4/15/2024   4/30/2024     0.390625       0.390625       0.00       0.00  
    7/15/2024   7/30/2024     0.390625       0.390625       0.00       0.00  
    10/15/2024   10/30/2024     0.390625       0.390625       0.00       0.00  
            $ 1.562500     $ 1.562500     $ 0.00     $ 0.00  
                                         

    The 2024 taxable distributions with respect to our 6.25% Series F Fixed to Floating Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Stock traded under ticker symbol ABR-PF are summarized as follows:

    6.25% Series F Fixed to Floating Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Stock (CUSIP #038923850)
    Record Date   Payment Date   Total Distribution Per Share   Non-Qualified Dividend (1)   Qualified Dividend   Capital Gain Distribution
    1/15/2024   1/30/2024   $ 0.390625     $ 0.390625     $ 0.00     $ 0.00  
    4/15/2024   4/30/2024     0.390625       0.390625       0.00       0.00  
    7/15/2024   7/30/2024     0.390625       0.390625       0.00       0.00  
    10/15/2024   10/30/2024     0.390625       0.390625       0.00       0.00  
            $ 1.562500     $ 1.562500     $ 0.00     $ 0.00  
                                         

    (1) May be eligible for the 20% qualified business income deduction applicable to certain REIT dividends under IRC Section 199A(b)(1)(B).

    For shareholders that may be required to report excess inclusion income to the Internal Revenue Service, we are pleased to report that in 2024, we will not pass through any excess inclusion income to our shareholders. As a result, no portion of the 2024 dividends should be treated as excess inclusion income for federal income tax purposes.

    We do not issue K-1s to holders of our common and preferred stock. Please contact your financial advisor or broker to obtain information on a 1099 form.

    Note: Shareholders are encouraged to consult with their tax advisors as to their specific tax treatment of our dividend distributions.

    About Arbor Realty Trust, Inc.

    Arbor Realty Trust, Inc. (NYSE: ABR) is a nationwide real estate investment trust and direct lender, providing loan origination and servicing for multifamily, single-family rental (SFR) portfolios, and other diverse commercial real estate assets. Headquartered in New York, Arbor manages a multibillion-dollar servicing portfolio, specializing in government-sponsored enterprise products. Arbor is a leading Fannie Mae DUS® lender and Freddie Mac Optigo® Seller/Servicer, and an approved FHA Multifamily Accelerated Processing (MAP) lender. Arbor’s product platform also includes bridge, CMBS, mezzanine and preferred equity loans. Rated by Standard and Poor’s and Fitch Ratings, Arbor is committed to building on its reputation for service, quality and customized solutions with an unparalleled dedication to providing our clients excellence over the entire life of a loan.

    Safe Harbor Statement

    Certain items in this press release may constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements are based on management’s current expectations and beliefs and are subject to a number of trends and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements. Arbor can give no assurance that its expectations will be attained. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from Arbor’s expectations include, but are not limited to, changes in economic conditions generally, and the real estate markets specifically, continued ability to source new investments, changes in interest rates and/or credit spreads, and other risks detailed in Arbor’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023 and its other reports filed with the SEC. Such forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this press release. Arbor expressly disclaims any obligation or undertaking to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect any change in Arbor’s expectations with regard thereto or change in events, conditions, or circumstances on which any such statement is based.

    Contact:
    Arbor Realty Trust, Inc.
    Paul Elenio, Chief Financial Officer
    516-506-4422
    pelenio@arbor.com

    The MIL Network –

    January 31, 2025
  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Latest climate target as useful as a screen door on a submarine – Greenpeace

    Source: Greenpeace

    Greenpeace has slammed the Luxon Government for failing to protect future generations after releasing New Zealand’s latest climate target of a 1-5% additional reduction in emissions by 2035, saying it’s “about as useful as a screen door on a submarine.”
    Greenpeace spokesperson Amanda Larsson says, “This target is an absolute joke, yet the climate crisis is no laughing matter.”
    “Against the backdrop of Luxon’s war on nature, not only is this target too weak to protect our kids and grandkids from a disastrous future but there is no plan to achieve even the targets we already have.”
    Under the Paris Agreement on climate change, nations are required to submit a so-called nationally determined contribution (NDC) every four years. Each NDC must represent an increase in ambition on the last, which was submitted in 2021.
    “Every parent and grandparent wants to pass on a safe and stable world to our kids. That requires brave and visionary leadership, both of which Luxon is lacking,” says Larsson.
    “Luxon’s vision for New Zealand seems to be a landscape ripped open by coal mines, a coastline dotted with oil rigs and fields crammed with cows, knee deep in mud and effluent.”
    The Luxon Government controversially overturned the 2018 ban on offshore oil and gas exploration, despite advice from MFAT that this is likely to breach our recent free trade agreements with the EU and UK. Coal mines are included in the list for fast-tracking, overriding community will and environmental laws. Luxon has also exempted New Zealand’s most polluting industry – dairying – from paying for its emissions through the Emissions Trading Scheme.
    “Our country is doing worse on climate change than it was ten years ago,” says Larsson. “This is what happens when you let polluters write the policy.”
    Documents released to Greenpeace under the Official Information Act reveal the unprecedented influence of the meat and dairy industry over environmental policy in Luxon’s Government. Emails, texts and briefings show that Federated Farmers, Dairy NZ and Beef + Lamb NZ have used privileged access to Ministers to draft policy on freshwater and climate change, to advise on Government communications and to push central Government to instruct local councils to weaken their environmental policies.
    “The increasingly rampant wildfires, floods and cyclones we’re witnessing around us are a sign that our planet is sick. If governments won’t stand up to polluters to protect our kids and grandkids, as Luxon has shown he will not, then people will use the courts, protest and other means to save their children from climate disaster,” says Larsson.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    January 31, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Nokia Corporation: Repurchase of own shares on 30.01.2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Nokia Corporation
    Stock Exchange Release
    30 January 2025 at 22:30 EET

    Nokia Corporation: Repurchase of own shares on 30.01.2025

    Espoo, Finland – On 30 January 2025 Nokia Corporation (LEI: 549300A0JPRWG1KI7U06) has acquired its own shares (ISIN FI0009000681) as follows:

    Trading venue (MIC Code) Number of shares Weighted average price / share, EUR*
    XHEL 872,093 4.53
    CEUX – –
    BATE – –
    AQEU – –
    TQEX – –
    Total 872,093 4.53

    * Rounded to two decimals

    On 22 November 2024, Nokia announced that its Board of Directors is initiating a share buyback program to offset the dilutive effect of new Nokia shares issued to the shareholders of Infinera Corporation and certain Infinera Corporation share-based incentives. The repurchases in compliance with the Market Abuse Regulation (EU) 596/2014 (MAR), the Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2016/1052 and under the authorization granted by Nokia’s Annual General Meeting on 3 April 2024 started on 25 November 2024 and end by 31 December 2025 and target to repurchase 150 million shares for a maximum aggregate purchase price of EUR 900 million.

    Total cost of transactions executed on 30 January 2025 was EUR 3,950,494. After the disclosed transactions, Nokia Corporation holds 235,158,898 treasury shares.

    Details of transactions are included as an appendix to this announcement.

    On behalf of Nokia Corporation

    BofA Securities Europe SA

    About Nokia
    At Nokia, we create technology that helps the world act together.

    As a B2B technology innovation leader, we are pioneering networks that sense, think and act by leveraging our work across mobile, fixed and cloud networks. In addition, we create value with intellectual property and long-term research, led by the award-winning Nokia Bell Labs.

    With truly open architectures that seamlessly integrate into any ecosystem, our high-performance networks create new opportunities for monetization and scale. Service providers, enterprises and partners worldwide trust Nokia to deliver secure, reliable and sustainable networks today – and work with us to create the digital services and applications of the future.

    Inquiries:

    Nokia Communications
    Phone: +358 10 448 4900
    Email: press.services@nokia.com
    Maria Vaismaa, Global Head of External Communications

    Nokia Investor Relations
    Phone: +358 931 580 507
    Email: investor.relations@nokia.com

    Attachment

    • Daily Report 2025-01-30

    The MIL Network –

    January 31, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Kindcard, Inc. to Launch Payments Marketplace

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BOCA RATON, Fla., Jan. 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Kindcard, Inc. (OTC Markets: KCRD) (“Kindcard” and the “Company”), an innovative FinTech and PayTech company which provides alternative payments solutions to businesses across a wide variety of merchant verticals through its wholly owned subsidiary, Deb, Inc. (“DEB”) (www.debpayments.com), today announced that the Company has reviewed its position within the payments industry in light of the significant expansion of technologies which connect payments of all types worldwide.

    Michael Rosen, CEO of Kindcard, stated, “We are excited about our upcoming launch of DEB’s All-In-One Marketplace for payment solutions. DEB’s strategic partnerships and payment solutions integration will cover traditional low to high-risk processing domestically and internationally, as well as provide the ability for merchants to accept all digital currencies for payments, allowing for conversion and settlement to fiat in any currency worldwide.” Mr. Rosen Continued, “In DEB’s All-In-One Marketplace for payment solutions, ISO’s, agents, and merchants will find a compliant and fast way to connect to our payment platforms at a simple fixed cost.”

    To learn more about DEB, please visit: www.debpayments.com

    About Kindcard, Inc.:

    Kindcard, Inc. (OTC Markets: KCRD) (“Kindcard” and the “Company”) is engaged in designing, partnering and taking to market safer, faster, and more competitive and secure ways for businesses and consumers to transact business in the ever-growing world economy. www.kindcard.com

    Kindcard is subject to the information and reporting requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), and, in accordance with the Exchange Act, the Company files periodic reports, documents, and other information with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “Commission”) relating to our business, financial statements, and other matters. These filings are available to the public on the Commission’s website at http://www.sec.gov.

    Safe Harbor Provision

    This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, as amended, that are intended to be covered by the safe harbor created thereby. Forward-looking statements generally can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as “may,” “will,” “expects,” “intends,” “plans,” “projects,” “estimates,” “anticipates,” or “believes” or the negative thereof or any variation thereon or similar terminology or expressions. These forward-looking statements are based upon current estimates and assumptions. Forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from results proposed in such statements. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, it can provide no assurance that such expectations will prove to have been correct. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the Company’s expectations include, but are not limited to, those factors set forth in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended January 31, 2024 and its other filings and submissions with the SEC. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date made. Except as required by law, the Company assumes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements. This press release includes forward-looking statements concerning the future performance of our business, its operations and its financial performance and condition, and also includes selected operating results presented without the context of accompanying financial results. These forward-looking statements include, among others, statements with respect to our objectives and strategies to achieve those objectives, as well as statements with respect to our beliefs, plans, expectations, anticipations, estimates or intentions. These forward-looking statements are based on our current expectations. We caution that all forward-looking information is inherently uncertain and actual results may differ materially from the assumptions, estimates or expectations reflected or contained in the forward-looking information, and that actual future performance will be affected by a number of factors, including economic conditions, technological change, regulatory change and competitive factors, many of which are beyond our control. Therefore, future events and results may vary significantly from what we currently foresee. We are under no obligation (and we expressly disclaim any such obligation) to update or alter the forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    Contact:
    Kindcard, Inc.
    (888) 888-0708
    Info@kindcard.com

    Investor Relations:
    Info@kindcard.com

    The MIL Network –

    January 31, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Global: Understanding the backlash against corporate DEI — and how to move forward

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Camellia Bryan, Assistant Professor, Organizational Behaviour and Human Resources Division, Sauder School of Business, University of British Columbia

    United States President Donald Trump recently issued an executive order to end federal diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) programs. In the days since, Trump has even tried to blame a deadly Washington, D.C., plane crash on DEI hiring practices, without citing any evidence. He was swiftly criticized for his statement.

    In the corporate world, DEI programs aimed at addressing systemic barriers that have historically disadvantaged marginalized groups are facing growing resistance, with backlash becoming increasingly visible in workplaces and in public discourse.

    High-profile companies like Amazon, Meta, McDonalds and Target have been cancelling their DEI programs since last year. Although others, like Costco and Apple, have said they’re retaining theirs.

    The backlash against DEI isn’t just about individuals rejecting change; it reveals deeper tensions in how people see themselves and their place in society.

    Our research explores these tensions. We find that while social identity threat — the discomfort people feel when their identity is challenged — can lead to backlash, it can also present an unexpected opportunity for learning and growth. Understanding this dynamic offers a path forward for organizations struggling to balance DEI efforts with employee buy-in.

    What drives DEI backlash?

    Backlash often emerges from employees who belong to dominant social identity groups that hold disproportionate access to power and resources. Examples include white people in North America, men in patriarchal societies or heterosexual individuals in hetero-normative cultures.

    For these employees, DEI initiatives can sometimes feel threatening. Why? Because such efforts highlight inequalities and challenge assumptions about fairness, merit and the status quo. When someone identifies strongly with their group — whether as a white person, a man or a member of another dominant identity — they may see DEI initiatives as attacks on their assumptions. This discomfort is known as social identity threat.

    For instance, when a company introduces a gender equity policy aimed at addressing women’s under-representation in leadership, some men might perceive this as unfair. Their response — whether it’s skepticism, defensiveness or outright resistance — reflects a defensive reaction to that threat.

    Beyond defensiveness: A path to learning

    Traditional approaches to managing DEI backlash often focus on mitigating threat: providing reassurance, avoiding confrontation or encouraging self-affirmation (“DEI isn’t about you; it’s about everyone”). Yet these approaches miss an important point: social identity threat doesn’t have to result in defensiveness or backlash. It can also inspire reflection, learning and growth.

    Our research draws on transformational learning theory, which explains how adults change their understanding of the world in response to disorienting experiences.

    According to this theory, when people encounter information that challenges their assumptions, they can engage in a process of deep reflection. By questioning their beliefs and seeking out new perspectives, individuals can develop more accurate, inclusive interpretations of themselves and others.




    Read more:
    Businesses must stop caving to political pressure and abandoning their EDI commitments


    Real-world examples of transformation

    Consider the story of Caolan Robertson, a former alt-right filmmaker in the United Kingdom.

    For years, Robertson worked with extremist figures to produce anti-immigrant and anti-Muslim content that garnered millions of views online. Then, in 2019, Robertson saw media coverage of mosque shootings, where 51 people were killed by a white supremacist. The tragedy rattled him.

    In Robertson’s own words, the event forced him to confront his assumptions about white identity and how it can be involved in violence and extremism. What began as an overwhelming sense of disorientation turned into a period of deep reflection. Robertson eventually rejected his old beliefs, began speaking out against extremism, and co-founded an organization to help others de-radicalize.

    Similar learning occurs on smaller scales in workplaces every day. For example, a male manager who initially feels threatened by gender equity policies might, over time, come to recognize the barriers women face at work and become an advocate for change. Or a white employee who feels uncomfortable during discussions about racism might come to see how privilege has shaped their experiences.

    Creating conditions for growth

    So how can organizations turn social identity threat into an opportunity for learning rather than backlash? We propose three strategies:

    1. Foster a “learning-oriented” DEI climate
    Organizations must shift how they frame DEI initiatives. Instead of treating these efforts as compliance-driven checkboxes, companies should position DEI as a chance for employees to learn, grow and contribute to a more inclusive workplace. A strong diversity climate — where differences are valued, and conversations about identity are encouraged — creates a safe space for reflection. Our research shows that when employees feel that diversity is part of their organization’s mission, they’re more likely to approach identity threats as a learning opportunity.

    2. Encourage dialogue across perspectives
    One of the most effective ways to challenge harmful assumptions is through dialogue across perspectives — open conversations where employees with different lived experiences share their perspectives and provide feedback. This kind of dialogue requires psychological safety: employees need to feel secure enough to express their views, even when those views are incomplete or flawed. Importantly, these conversations don’t always have to occur between dominant and marginalized group members. Dialogue with other dominant-group colleagues who have already reflected on their identities can also provide valuable insights.

    3. Support incremental progress
    Transformational learning doesn’t happen overnight. Employees may initially engage in surface-level reflection, revising specific assumptions without challenging deeper systems of inequality. Over time, they may progress to deep-level reflection, critically analyzing the foundational beliefs that shape their identity. Organizations can support this incremental progress by recognizing small steps and encouraging continued learning.

    Discomfort: A powerful motivator for change

    The backlash to DEI efforts is often framed as evidence that the initiative is failing, but it can also be understood as a natural part of the learning process.

    Social identity threat is uncomfortable, but it can serve as a powerful motivator for change when organizations provide the right tools and support.

    Companies that ignore backlash risk deepening resistance and undermining their DEI goals. However, organizations that embrace discomfort as an opportunity for growth can transform their workplaces into spaces where employees are not only more inclusive but also more reflective, empathetic and engaged.

    Backlash isn’t the end of the story — it’s the beginning of a conversation.

    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. Understanding the backlash against corporate DEI — and how to move forward – https://theconversation.com/understanding-the-backlash-against-corporate-dei-and-how-to-move-forward-246117

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    January 31, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Oak Ridge Financial Services, Inc. Announces Fourth Quarter and Full Year of 2024 Results, Quarterly Cash Dividend of $0.12 Per Share

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    OAK RIDGE, N.C., Jan. 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Oak Ridge Financial Services, Inc. (“Oak Ridge”; or the “Company”) (OTCPink: BKOR), the parent company of Bank of Oak Ridge (the “Bank”), announced unaudited financial results for the fourth quarter and full year of 2024, and a quarterly cash dividend of $0.12 per share.

    Full Year 2024 Highlights

    • Earnings per share of $2.06 for 2024, compared to $2.10 for 2023.
    • Return on equity of 9.27% for 2024, compared to 10.38% for 2023.
    • Dividends declared per common share of $0.44 for 2024, compared to $0.30 for 2023.
    • Tangible book value per common share of $23.02 as of year-end 2024, compared to $22.78 at the end of the prior quarter-end, and $21.36 as of year-end 2023.
    • Net interest margin of 3.83% for 2024, compared to 3.86% for 2023.
    • Efficiency ratio of 67.7% for 2024, compared to 68.8% for 2023.
    • Loans receivable of $508.4 million as of December 31, 2024, up 6.9% (annualized) from $500.2 million as of the prior quarter-end, and up 10.2% from $461.9 million as of December 31, 2023.
    • Nonperforming assets to total assets of 0.53% as of December 31, 2024, compared to 0.45% as of the prior quarter-end end and 0.07% as of December 31, 2023.
    • Nonperforming assets were $3.5 million as of December 31, 2024, compared to $2.9 million as of the prior quarter-end end and $461,000 as of December 31, 2023. $2.8 million of the $3.0 million increase in nonperforming assets from the prior year end to the current year end were due to the guaranteed and nonguaranteed balances of six Small Business Administration (“SBA”) 7(a) loans that moved to nonaccrual status during the third and fourth quarters of 2024. The balances as of December 31, 2024, of SBA nonperforming loans guaranteed and unguaranteed by the SBA were $2.1 million and $700,000, respectively.
    • Securities available-for-sale and held-to maturity of $104.4 million as of year-end 2024, up 7.5% (annualized) from $102.4 million as of the prior quarter-end, and down 5.6% from $110.6 million as of year-end 2023.
    • Total deposits of $531.3 million at quarter-end end, up 16.2% (annualized) from $510.5 million as of the prior quarter-end, and up 7.7% from $493.1 million as of year-end 2023.
    • Total short and long-term borrowings, junior subordinated notes, and subordinated debentures of $58.2 million at quarter-end end, down 67.96% (annualized) from $70.2 million as of the prior quarter-end, and unchanged from $58.2 million as of year-end 2023.
    • Total stockholders’ equity of $63.0 million as of year-end 2024, up 0.6% (annualized) from $62.9 million as of the prior quarter-end, and up 8.0% from $58.3 million as of year-end 2023. At December 31, 2024, the Bank’s Community Bank Leverage Ratio (CBLR) was 11.04%, down slightly from 11.18% as of December 31, 2023. A bank or savings institution electing to use the CBLR will generally be considered well-capitalized and to have met the risk-based and leverage capital requirements of the applicable capital regulations if it has a leverage ratio greater than 9.0%.
    • Ranked #8 in 2024 North Carolina Small Business Administration (SBA) 7(a) loan production.
    • Recognized as one of American Banker’s Top 100 Publicly Traded Community Banks under $2 billion in assets. The rankings were based on three-year return on average equity (ROAE), a key measure of shareholder return, for 2021 to 2023.

    Tom Wayne, Chief Executive Officer, announced, “While our full-year earnings per share for 2024 decreased slightly to $2.06 compared to $2.10 for 2023, we saw significant positive developments. In 2024, we achieved loan growth of 10.2%, alongside strong deposit growth of 7.7%. Our tangible book value per common share increased to $23.02, up from $21.36 at the previous year-end. We declared cash dividends of $0.44 per common share, up from $0.30 in 2023. We implemented a 50,000 share repurchase program and repurchased 25,100 shares during 2024. Our net interest margin remained stable at 3.83% for 2024, and our capital and liquidity positions remained strong. Despite an increase in nonperforming assets to $3.5 million at the end of 2024, $2.8 million of this was due to six SBA loans moving to nonaccrual status, with $2.1 million guaranteed by the SBA. We are pleased to be ranked #8 in North Carolina for SBA 7(a) loan production and recognized among American Banker’s Top 100 Publicly Traded Community Banks under $2 billion in assets. We owe these accomplishments to our dedicated employees and the invaluable support of our Board of Directors. I am thankful for their continued commitment to serving our clients and ensuring the Bank’s enduring strength and success.”

    A quarterly cash dividend of $0.12 per share of common stock will be paid on March 3, 2025, to stockholders of record as of the close of business on February 18, 2025, which represents the 25th consecutive quarterly dividend paid by the Company. “We are pleased to pay another quarterly cash dividend to our stockholders,” said Mr. Wayne. “Paying stockholders a portion of our earnings reflects our continuing commitment to enhance stockholder value.”

    The Company adopted and implemented a share repurchase program in the third quarter of 2024. There were no shares repurchased during the third quarter of 2024. During the fourth quarter of 2024, the Company repurchased a total of 25,100 shares for $321,000.

    For 2024 and 2023, net interest income was $23.7 million and $22.1 million, respectively, and the net interest margin was 3.83% in 2024 compared to 3.86% in 2023, a decrease of three basis points. For the three months ending December 31, 2024 and 2023, net interest income was $6.3 million and $5.7 million, respectively. For the three months ending December 31, 2024, the net interest margin increased 13 basis points to 3.92%, compared to 3.79% in 2023.

    For 2024, the Company recorded a provision for credit losses of $1.4 million, compared to a provision for credit losses of $727,000 in 2023. For the three months ending December 31, 2024, the Company recorded a provision for credit losses of $514,000, compared to a provision for credit losses of $432,000 in the same period in 2023. The allowance for credit losses as a percentage of total loans was 1.05% on December 31, 2024 and 2023. Nonperforming assets represented 0.53% of total assets on December 31, 2024, compared to 0.07% on December 31, 2023. The recorded balances of nonperforming loans were $3.5 million on December 31, 2024, compared to $461,000 on December 31, 2023. The $3.0 million increase in nonperforming loans from December 31, 2023 to December 31, 2024, was primarily attributable to six SBA 7(a) loans totaling $2.8 million moving to nonaccrual status during the third quarter of 2024, of which $2.1 million is guaranteed by the SBA. The SBA loans are also secured by real estate and personal guarantees.

    Noninterest income totaled $3.2 million and $3.9 million for 2024 and 2023, respectively. There were increases and decreases in components of noninterest income from 2023 to 2024, with the following categories significantly contributing to the overall net decrease: Service charges on deposit accounts were $234,000 for 2024 compared to $169,000 in 2023. The increase was due to a new deposit account fee established in 2024 that was not in effect during 2023. Income from Small Business Investment Company investments were $211,000 for 2024 compared to $395,000 in 2023. The Company received fewer income distributions from Small Business Investment Company investments in 2024 compared to 2023. Other service charges and fees were $380,000 for 2024 compared to $524,000 in 2023. The decrease is due to fees realized on a sold deposit relationship in 2023 with no comparable fees in 2024.

    Noninterest income totaled $784,000 and $918,000 for the three months ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. There were increases and decreases in components of noninterest income from 2023 to 2024, with the following categories significantly contributing to the overall net decrease: Service charges on deposit accounts were $836,000 for the quarter ended December 31, 2024, compared to $628,000 in the 2023 quarter. The increase was due to a new deposit account fee established in 2024. Income from Small Business Investment Company investments was $209,000 for the quarter ended December 31, 2023, with no comparable income in 2024. The Company received fewer income distributions from Small Business Investment Company investments in 2024 compared to the 2023 quarter.

    Noninterest expense totaled $18.3 million and $17.9 million for 2024 and 2023, respectively. There were increases and decreases in components of noninterest expense from 2023 to 2024, with the following categories significantly contributing to the overall net increase of $409,000: Occupancy expense was $1.3 million for 2024 compared to $1.1 million in 2023. The increase in occupancy expense is mostly due to higher property maintenance expenses in 2024 compared to 2023. Equipment expense was $595,000 for 2024 compared to $872,000 for 2023. The decrease in equipment expense is mostly due to lower equipment depreciation expense in 2024 compared to 2023. Data and items processing expense was $2.3 million for 2024 compared to $2.0 million for 2023. The increase in data and items processing expense is mostly due to higher software licensing fees paid or payable to our core processing vendor. Professional and advertising expenses were $1.2 million for 2024 compared to $1.4 million for 2023. The decrease in professional and advertising expenses is mostly due to decreases in information technology contracted services in 2024 compared to 2023. Telecommunications expense was $278,000 for 2024 compared to $438,000 for 2023. The decrease in telecommunications expense is mostly due to the reduction in unnecessary or redundant telecommunications expenses.

    Noninterest expense totaled $4.7 million and $4.3 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. There were increases and decreases in components of noninterest expense from 2023 to 2024, with the following categories significantly contributing to the overall net increase of $267,000: Salaries were $2.2 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024, compared to $2.1 million for 2023. The increase in salaries is mostly due to higher salaries and incentive payments to employees for the three months ended December 31, 2024, compared to the same period in 2023. Employee benefits were $370,000 for the three months ended December 31, 2024, compared to $270,000 for 2023. The increase in employee benefits is mostly due to higher expenses related to the Bank’s employee stock ownership plan and employee benefits for the three months ended December 31, 2024, compared to the same period in 2023. Occupancy expenses were $321,000 for the three months ended December 31, 2024 compared to $274,000 for 2023. The increase in occupancy expense is mostly due to higher property maintenance expenses in the three months ended December 31, 2024 compared to the same period in 2023. Equipment expense was $134,000 for the three months ended December 31, 2024 compared to $214,000 for 2023. The decrease in equipment expense is mostly due to lower equipment depreciation expense in the three months ended December 31, 2024, compared to 2023. Data and items processing expense was $602,000 for the three months ended December 31, 2024 compared to $494,000 for 2023. The increase in data and items processing expense is mostly due to higher software licensing fees paid or payable to our core processing vendor.

    About Oak Ridge Financial Services, Inc., and Bank of Oak Ridge
    At Bank of Oak Ridge, we pride ourselves on knowing your name when you walk through our door. Whether in-person or through our digital offerings, managing your financial well-being is easy, safe, and convenient. We are the longest-running employee-owned community bank in the Triad and have served community members, local businesses, and non-profit organizations since 2000. Learn more about what makes Bank of Oak Ridge the Triad’s community bank by visiting one of our convenient locations in Greensboro, High Point, Summerfield, and Oak Ridge.

    Oak Ridge Financial Services, Inc. (OTC Pink: BKOR) is the holding company for Bank of Oak Ridge. Bank of Oak Ridge is a member of the FDIC and an Equal Housing Lender.

    Awards & Recognitions | Best Bank in the Triad | Triad’s Top Workplace Finalist | 2016 Better Business Bureau Torch Award for Business Ethics | Triad’s Healthiest Employer Winner

    Banking for Business & Personal | Mobile & Online Banking | Worldwide ATM | Debit, Credit + Rewards | Checking, Savings & Money Market | Loans + SBA | Mortgage | Insurance | Wealth Management

    Let’s Talk | 336.644.9944 | www.BankofOakRidge.com | Extended Interactive Teller Machine Hours at all Triad Locations

    Forward-looking Information This earnings release contains certain forward-looking statements with respect to the financial condition, results of operations and business of the Company. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties and are based on the beliefs and assumptions of the management of the Company and on the information available to management at the time that these disclosures were prepared. These statements can be identified by the use of the words “expect,” “anticipate,” “estimate” and “believe,” variations of these words and other similar expressions. Readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements as a number of important factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially include, but are not limited to, (1) competition in the Company’s markets, (2) changes in the interest rate environment, (3) general national, regional or local economic conditions may be less favorable than expected, resulting in, among other things, a deterioration in credit quality and the possible impairment of collectability of loans, (4) legislative or regulatory changes, including changes in accounting standards, (5) significant changes in the federal and state legal and regulatory environment and tax laws, and (6) the impact of changes in monetary and fiscal policies, laws, rules and regulations. The Company undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements.

               
    OAK RIDGE FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC.
    CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
    (Dollars in thousands, except share data)
      December 31,
      September 30,
      December 31,
         
      2024   2024   2023      
    ASSETS (unaudited)   (unaudited)   (audited)      
    Cash and due from banks $ 8,075     $ 10,522     $ 7,792        
    Interest-bearing deposits with banks   13,102       11,308       12,633        
    Total cash and cash equivalents   21,177       21,830       20,425        
    Securities available-for-sale   85,714       83,769       91,849        
    Securities held-to-maturity, net of allowance for credit losses   18,662       18,668       18,706        
    Restricted stock, at cost   3,439       4,006       2,404        
    Loans receivable   514,292       505,521       466,796        
    Allowance for credit losses   (5,388 )     (5,354 )     (4,920 )      
    Net loans receivable   508,904       500,167       461,876        
    Property and equipment, net   8,664       8,827       8,366        
    Accrued interest receivable   3,135       3,098       2,580        
    Bank owned life insurance   6,268       6,244       6,178        
    Right-of-use assets – operating leases   2,166       2,242       2,466        
    Other assets   5,553       4,613       4,544        
    Total assets $ 663,682     $ 653,464     $ 619,394        
    LIABILITIES          
    Noninterest-bearing deposits $ 119,851     $ 114,152     $ 99,702        
    Interest-bearing deposits   411,464       396,346       393,442        
    Total deposits   531,315       510,498       493,144        
    Federal Funds purchased   1,725       –       –        
    Short-term borrowings   18,000       52,000       40,000        
    Long-term borrowings   22,000       –       –        
    Junior subordinated notes – trust preferred securities   8,248       8,248       8,248        
    Subordinated debentures, net of discount   9,983       9,973       9,943        
    Lease liabilities – operating leases   2,166       2,242       2,466        
    Accrued interest payable   709       1,021       1,154        
    Other liabilities   6,546       6,579       6,091        
    Total liabilities   600,692       590,561       561,046        
    STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY          
    Common stock   26,733       27,100       26,736        
    Retained earnings   37,771       36,575       33,365        
    Net unrealized loss on debt securities, net of tax   (1,771 )     (412 )     (1,580 )      
    Net unrealized gain (loss) on hedging derivative instruments, net of tax   257       (360 )     (173 )      
    Total accumulated other comprehensive loss   (1,514 )     (772 )     (1,753 )      
    Total stockholders’ equity   62,990       62,903       58,348        
    Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity $ 663,682     $ 653,464     $ 619,394        
    Common shares outstanding   2,736,770       2,732,720       2,732,020        
    Common shares authorized   50,000,000       50,000,000       50,000,000        
               
               
    OAK RIDGE FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC.
    CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
    (Dollars in thousands, except share data)
      Three Months Ended
      For the year ended
      December 31,
      September 30,
      December 31,
      December 31,
      December 31,
      2024   2024   2023   2024   2023
    Interest and dividend income:          
    Loans and fees on loans $ 8,212     $ 7,971     $ 6,999     $ 31,076     $ 25,150  
    Interest on deposits in banks   217       275       240       887       903  
    Restricted stock dividends   64       67       45       241       186  
    Interest on investment securities   1,279       1,402       1,493       5,578       5,215  
    Total interest and dividend income   9,772       9,715       8,777       37,782       31,454  
    Interest expense          
    Deposits   2,700       2,758       2,168       10,268       6,242  
    Short-term and long-term debt   786       961       925       3,777       3,155  
    Total interest expense   3,486       3,719       3,093       14,045       9,397  
    Net interest income   6,286       5,996       5,684       23,737       22,057  
    Provision for credit losses   514       261       432       1,361       727  
    Net interest income after provision for credit losses   5,772       5,735       5,252       22,376       21,330  
    Noninterest income:          
    Service charges on deposit accounts   234       231       169       836       628  
    Gain on sale of securities   19       –       –       19       77  
    Brokerage commissions on mortgage loans   –       –       –       –       43  
    Insurance commissions   125       169       121       553       462  
    Gain on sale of Small Business Administration loans   –       –       –       –       475  
    Debit and credit card interchange income   285       292       301       1,174       1,225  
    Income from Small Business Investment Company investments   –       111       209       211       395  
    Income earned on bank owned life insurance   23       23       23       90       82  
    Other Service Charges and Fees   98       98       95       380       524  
    Total noninterest income   784       924       918       3,263       3,911  
    Noninterest expenses:          
    Salaries   2,198       2,287       2,112       8,962       8,777  
    Employee Benefits   370       310       270       1,294       1,177  
    Occupancy   321       358       274       1,325       1,092  
    Equipment   134       143       214       595       872  
    Data and Item Processing   602       607       494       2,255       1,959  
    Professional & Advertising   298       332       295       1,249       1,377  
    Stationary and Supplies   21       32       36       131       129  
    Telecommunications   65       71       48       278       438  
    FDIC Assessment   118       118       110       460       418  
    Other expense   441       438       448       1,711       1,612  
    Total noninterest expenses   4,568       4,696       4,301       18,260       17,851  
    Income before income taxes   1,988       1,963       1,869       7,379       7,390  
    Income tax expense   461       460       392       1,706       1,648  
    Net income and income available to common shareholders $ 1,527     $ 1,503     $ 1,477     $ 5,673     $ 5,742  
    Basic income per common share $ 0.56     $ 0.54     $ 0.54     $ 2.06     $ 2.10  
    Diluted income per common share $ 0.56     $ 0.54     $ 0.54     $ 2.06     $ 2.10  
    Basic weighted average shares outstanding   2,744,609       2,761,870       2,732,720       2,752,991       2,728,094  
    Diluted weighted average shares outstanding   2,744,609       2,761,870       2,732,720       2,752,991       2,728,094  
               
               
    OAK RIDGE FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC.
    Selected Financial Data
      As Of Or For The Three Months Ended,
      December 31,
      September 30,
      June 30,
      March 31,
      December 31,
      2024   2024   2024   2024   2023
    Return on average common stockholders’ equity1   9.63 %     9.56 %     8.57 %     9.31 %     10.44 %
    Tangible book value per share $ 23.02     $ 22.78     $ 21.95     $ 21.56     $ 21.36  
    Return on average assets1   0.91 %     0.91 %     0.80 %     0.88 %     0.95 %
    Net interest margin1   3.92 %     3.81 %     3.81 %     3.79 %     3.79 %
    Efficiency ratio   64.6 %     67.9 %     70.0 %     68.3 %     65.2 %
    Nonperforming assets to total assets   0.53 %     0.45 %     0.08 %     0.06 %     0.07 %
    Allowance for credit losses to total loans   1.05 %     1.06 %     1.06 %     1.03 %     1.05 %
    1Annualized                                      
                                           

    Contact: Skylar Mearing, Marketing Director
    Phone: 336.662.4840

    The MIL Network –

    January 31, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Europe: 2024 marks year of record high EIB Group investment in Denmark

    Source: European Investment Bank

    • The EIB Group signed €2.1 billion in new financing for Danish projects last year, a 48% increase from 2023 and more than double the 2022 volume.
    • 2024 flagship projects include support for dual-use infrastructure in the Port of Esbjerg, the Thor North Sea wind farm, and state-of-the-art medical research and development.
    • Another notable highlight was the appointment of the Danish expert Merete Clausen as deputy Chief Executive of the European Investment Fund, the EIB’s subsidiary.

    The European Investment Bank Group, consisting of the European Investment Bank and the European Investment Fund, invested a record €2.1 billion in Danish projects last year, a record volume in the country. Worldwide, the EIB Group investment also reached a record level of €88.8 billion, of which no less than €50.7 billion in climate and environmental financing.

    In line with national and EU priorities, EIB financing in Denmark focused on key infrastructure, green energy, and innovation. The EIB signed a €115 million loan to upgrade and expand the Port of Esbjerg, Europe’s largest port for shipping offshore wind turbines, increasing its capacity to accommodate larger vessels, including for NATO operations. This way, the EIB supports Europe’s energy security and sustainability as well as its security and defence capabilities. In the energy sector, the EIB financed the massive 1.1 GW Thor wind farm project with a €1.2 billion loan to German company RWE. Located off the Danish coast in the North Sea, the new wind farm will produce enough green electricity to supply one in three Danish households.

    In 2024 the EIB Group also saw a notable uptick in financing for smaller companies in Denmark. Through affordable loans, guarantees or equity, over half the Group’s 2024 financing went to Danish small and medium-sized companies and Mid-Caps. Notably, Danish scale-up companies like SNIPR Biome, Matr Foods and Norlase, signed up for EIB venture debt financing, which aims to make sure that critical technology from Europe can grow and thrive in the EU. In a similar vein, the European Investment Fund (EIF) made a €24.8 million commitment to PSV Hafnium, the first-ever Danish venture fund dedicated solely to deep tech. Building on its close ties with the innovation ecosystem and DTU, the fund will support science-based clean tech, health tech and next generation industrial solutions.

    “2024 was a landmark year for the EIB Group in Denmark, with significant investments in green energy, innovative industries, and critical infrastructure, including the Thor wind farm and the Port of Esbjerg.” said EIB Vice-President Ioannis Tsakiris. “We also significantly increased our financing for Danish SMEs, Mid-Caps and scale-ups, through both the EIF and the EIB. Deals with EIFO, Sydbank and Danish investment funds will help ensure that Danish companies have access to the financing needed to grow and innovate. Congratulations to all teams for this outstanding achievement, let’s keep the momentum in 2025.”

    The EIF signed 12 transactions in Denmark last year, including equity investments in PSV Hafnium, Nine Realms and Den Sociale Kapitalfond, and guarantee transactions with Denmark’s Export and Investment Fund EIFO, Kompasbank, Ringkjøbing Landbobank and others. The EIF, which saw Danish national Merete Clausen appointed as deputy chief executive just before year end, made available a total of €361.7 million for Danish SMEs in 2024.

    Background information

    The European Investment Bank is the long-term lending institution of the European Union, owned by its Member States. It finances investments that contribute to EU policy objectives. EIB projects bolster competitiveness, drive innovation, promote sustainable development, enhance social and territorial cohesion, contribute to peace and security, and support a just and swift transition to climate neutrality. Denmark owns 2.64% of the European Investment Bank.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    January 31, 2025
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