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USNDA Commends ‘Countering Chinese Drones’ Provisions in FY 2025 NDAA, Calls for Expanded Commitment from Congress Towards Rapidly and Responsibly Advancing the American Drone Industrial Base

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WASHINGTON, Dec. 9, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Following the release of the final text of the FY 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), Nathan Ecelbarger, spokesman for the provisional Board of Directors for the United States National Drone Association (USNDA), issued the following statement:

“USNDA commends U.S. Senator Rick Scott (FL) and U.S. Congresswoman Elise Stefanik (NY), along with the leadership of the House and Senate Armed Services Committees, for their dedication to advancing the FY 2025 NDAA, which includes numerous provisions aimed at crippling China’s drone dominance in U.S. markets and accelerating the integration of secure uncrewed systems, robotics, and autonomy across the U.S. Department of Defense (DOD).”

The FY25 NDAA requires the FCC to list all technology manufactured by DJI, Autel Robotics, and their subsidiary and affiliated companies on their Covered List within a year of enactment of the legislation unless a national security agency determines they do not pose a risk to the United States. Once DJI, Autel Robotics, and their subsidiaries are placed on FCC’s Covered List, new models of their drones will be prohibited from operating on U.S. communications infrastructure and will therefore not be able to be imported into the United States. These provisions will enhance U.S. national security and build domestic drone manufacturing.Additionally, the FY25 NDAA requires the DoD to increase the resiliency of sUAS supply chains by working with industry to grow domestic manufacturing of sUAS components. The DoD is required to develop a Resilient Supply Chain Strategy specifically for domestically manufactured small drones.
(Sections 162, 229, 353, 865, 925, 1031, 1073, 1078, 1089, and 1090, 1323, 1709)

“While emerging drone technology continues to globally change the character of warfare and demonstrate critical security vulnerabilities across national security and defense spectrums, swift and coordinated actions must be taken to replace the pervasive monopoly of China’s drone technology with an American drone industrial base. Simply put, regardless of security or supply chain concerns addressed in the 2025 NDAA, allowing Chinese drones flying in American skies represents an unnecessary and reversible risk.

The United States has allowed China to dominate the global and national consumer market, and line the shelves of department stores with potential miniature Weapons of Mass Destruction (mWMD’s). The 2025 NDAA is a step towards eliminating China’s drone supply chain, but not the only step.

Hard work remains that requires Congress to work across numerous Committees, the Federal Communications Commission  and Federal Aviation Administration, to critically examine national security postures and regulations. After the attacks on 9/11 in 2001 the FAA had the capability of grounding all flights nationally. No such capability exists today should drones be used in the next coordinated terror attack. 

Congress must continue the forward momentum of the 2025 NDAA to take a first principles approach to rebuild a U.S. drone industrial base from the ground up, that not only removes China’s dominance, but replaces DJI with commercial and consumer drone, drone swarm, and counter technology that can be rapidly and responsibly secured as drones become more pervasive within multiple market sectors. Humble, holistic, coordinated action is essential to maintain the safety and security of the Nation.”

The USNDA recommends the next steps for strengthening U.S. Drone Competitiveness:

Congressional establishment of a joint subcommittee to examine end to end existing and emerging drone technology, that weighs its proliferation both for the promising benefit or potential harm to the nation. Congress should carefully consider how to rapidly and responsibly accelerate or restrain the U.S. drone industry through both subsidization to American drone companies and applicable regulation of their use across markets.

Establishment of a cabinet-level working group with directed tasking to both represent, and oversee the immediate implementation of, immediate policy or structural changes required within the Departments of Defense, Commerce, Education, Energy, Attorney General, and National Security Advisor, with recommendations accelerated with Executive Orders.

Establishment of provisional Deputy or Under Secretary roles within respective departments, staffed with appointees from the “professionally impatient” cadre of technical subject matter experts closest to the problem. Specifically to the DoD, the Defense Innovation Unit’s BlueUAS program should be recycled, not refreshed, and instead expanded into a larger framework that assists with vetting and on-ramping American drone companies across all of government.

Establishment of an independent, non-government, not for profit research and development firm that will honestly and openly challenge assertions made by the above through objective experimentation and scenario specific wargaming.

The USNDA will continue to press for transparent and urgent progress through the following three focus areas in 2025:

The National Drone Games; Following the U.S. Navy Chief Technology Officer’s 2024 Memo calling for increased use of structured academic challenges, the USNDA will host a national student challenge awarding scholarships and cash prizes for collaborative academic innovation, with focus areas ranging from concepts and components, to prototypes that demonstrate the art of the possible solving real world problems.

DroneWERX: A national arena and proving ground, demonstrating current commercial technologies against emerging prototyped innovation, to accelerate adoption at the speed of relevance.

The National Drone Wars; A national, closed arena that disrupts tactical complacency with earnest transparency, that allows emerging drone technology to present both uncomfortable truths about vulnerabilities, and promising potential that can help accelerate and strengthen the defense, safety, and security of the nation.

In addition to these three events, the USNDA will also conduct an independent, non-sponsored vulnerability assessment of critical infrastructures against existing, commercially available drone technology and tactics. The findings and recommendations will be released in early 2025.

The USNDA does not primarily represent the drone industry itself, or any drone or component companies. The USNDA’s all volunteer cadre of National Security and Defense active, reserve, and retired professionals represent the growing concern over the clear and present vulnerabilities in our national posture towards the nefarious use of drones, both those manufactured in adversary countries and otherwise. The USNDA will continue to advocate for the United States government’s role in securing drone technology, while working independently to fill gaps in existing policy through transparency and cooperation between industry, academia, government, and international partners. 

About the USNDA:

The USNDA is a 501(c)3 non-profit collaboration consolidating multiple stakeholding industries and partners with shared interest and concern in emerging drone applications ranging from humanitarian aid, public safety, and environmental protection, to national security and defense. Formed by an initial provisional committee, the formal Board of Directors will be announced in the Spring of 2025.

Press and media inquiries can be sent to press@usnda.org

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SOURCE United States National Drone Association

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Great Place To Work names Invisors on the 2026 Best Workplaces for Women List, Ranking no.65

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Invisors named a UK’s Best Workplaces for Women™!

GLASGOW, Scotland, July 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Invisors, a Workday Services Partner has officially been recognized as one of UK’s Best Workplaces for Women 2026™, in 65th place out of the 350 ranked organisations.

Invisors’ values and culture are among the reasons women at our organisation say it is a great place to work. Discover how the team brings this philosophy to life at invisors.com/company-overview.

The 2026 UK’s Best Workplaces for Women list is made up of employers whose people have told Great Place To Work® UK they work for a place that is inclusive and equitable for all. The 350 companies on the list are committed to ensuring a reasonable balance of women and men across the organisation; removing barriers to women’s career advancement; and creating workplaces where all employees, regardless of gender, can flourish.

“I’m incredibly proud to see Invisors recognized as a Top Place for Women to Work. This award reflects the culture we’ve built together—one that values inclusivity, flexibility and empowerment. It’s a place where people are supported to bring their whole selves to work, grow their careers and strive for excellence every day.” Jennifer Donnelly-Corbett, EMEA Manager, HCM and Absence at Invisors.

Benedict Gautrey, Managing Director of Great Place To Work UK says:

“This year’s UK’s Best Workplaces for Women list celebrates businesses making a genuine difference day to day, not just in what they say, but in how people experience work. What matters most is that this recognition comes directly from women working in these organisations, who tell us they feel supported, valued, and able to grow.

Our research demonstrates that these organisations creating high-trust environments deliver stronger results, whether in financial outcomes, impact, or service delivery, alongside greater agility and resilience in the face of change.

Congratulations to Invisors for creating an environment where inclusion is clearly felt in practice.” 

Matt Smith, Managing Director, Global HR Operations, Invisors “Being named as one of the UK’s Best Workplaces for Women list is an achievement because it reflects what our people actually experience, not just what we aspire to. We’ve worked to build an environment where career growth and success aren’t something women have to fight for — it’s built into how we operate. This recognition is a great step in the journey, not the finish line, and we’re committed to keeping that bar high as Invisors grows within the UK.”

About Invisors

As a certified Workday Services Partner, Invisors helps clients leverage their organisational data to make better-informed business decisions through the deployment of Workday. Invisors’ success is measured by their clients’ ability to achieve their big-picture vision. From initial deployments to ongoing projects, Invisors is dedicated to elevating perspectives and transforming results. To learn more, visit invisors.com

About Great Place To Work®

Great Place To Work® is the global authority on workplace culture, helping organisations to create exceptional, high-performing workplaces where employees feel trusted and valued. The UK’s Best Workplaces for Women™ enables these outstanding organisations to celebrate their achievements, build their employer brand, and inspire others to take action. For more information, visit www.greatplacetowork.co.uk.

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SOURCE Invisors

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Auction Direct USA in Raleigh, NC, Makes It Easy to Shop for Used Vehicles Online

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RALEIGH, N.C., July 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Auction Direct USA in Raleigh, NC, helps shoppers browse used-vehicle inventory, compare options, and complete key steps of the buying process online for a faster, more convenient shopping experience.

Auction Direct USA in Raleigh, NC, is simplifying the used vehicle shopping experience by offering convenient online tools that help drivers browse inventory, compare options, and begin the purchasing process from the comfort of home.

With a user-friendly website, shoppers can explore an extensive selection of used cars, trucks, and SUVs that fit a variety of budgets and lifestyles. Detailed vehicle listings provide important information, including photos, key features, specifications, pricing, and availability, allowing customers to make informed decisions before visiting the dealership.

The online platform also makes it easy to narrow vehicle choices using search filters for make, model, body style, price range, mileage, model year, and other preferences. These features help shoppers quickly find vehicles that meet their individual needs while saving valuable time.

In addition to browsing inventory, customers can use several digital shopping tools to streamline the buying process. Visitors can estimate monthly payments, value a trade-in, complete a finance application, and schedule a test drive online. These resources allow shoppers to prepare for their dealership visit with greater confidence and convenience.

Auction Direct USA in Raleigh, NC, regularly updates its online inventory, giving customers access to fresh vehicle selections as they become available. Whether someone is searching for a dependable commuter car, a family-friendly SUV, or a capable pickup truck, the website provides an efficient way to explore available options before stepping into the showroom.

The dealership remains committed to delivering a straightforward, customer-focused buying experience by combining a wide range of high-quality used vehicles with digital tools that simplify every stage of the shopping journey.

Drivers looking to begin their search can visit Auction Direct USA in Raleigh, NC, or browse the current inventory online to compare vehicles and take advantage of convenient shopping resources before visiting the dealership in person.

About Auction Direct USA in Raleigh, NC

Auction Direct USA in Raleigh, NC, offers a diverse inventory of quality used cars, trucks, and SUVs to meet a wide range of driving needs and budgets. By combining a customer-focused approach with convenient online shopping tools, the dealership helps make finding and purchasing a used vehicle simple, efficient, and enjoyable.

Media Contact: Tony Kicinski, 844-678-8048, tonyk@auctiondirectusa.com

 

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SOURCE Auction Direct USA

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FLAGSTAR BANK, N.A. ANNOUNCES $250 MILLION SHARE REPURCHASE PROGRAM

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Board of Directors Authorizes Repurchase of Up to $250 Million of Outstanding Common Stock, Reflecting the Bank’s Strong Capital Position and Commitment to Long-Term Shareholder Value

HICKSVILLE, N.Y., July 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Flagstar Bank, N.A. (NYSE: FLG) (the “Bank”) today announced that its Board of Directors has authorized a common stock repurchase program under which the Bank may repurchase up to $250 million of its outstanding common stock over the next 12-month period.

Commenting on the repurchase program, Joseph M. Otting, Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer stated, “We are pleased to announce our stock buyback program, which reflects the meaningful progress we have made in executing our strategic plan, the strength of the balance sheet, and Flagstar’s long-term growth prospects. We have consistently maintained capital levels well above regulatory requirements, and we believe that returning capital to our shareholders through a share repurchase program represents a compelling and disciplined use of our excess capital at this time.

“We remain deeply committed to serving our customers and communities and we are confident that this program — alongside our continued investment in our people, products, systems, and technology — will deliver sustainable, long-term value for our shareholders.”

Repurchases may be conducted through open-market purchases, which may include purchases under a trading plan adopted pursuant to Securities and Exchange Commission Rule 10b5-1, or through privately negotiated transactions. The timing and exact amount of any share repurchases will be subject to a variety of factors, including the availability of stock for repurchases, the Bank’s capital position and financial performance, regulatory considerations, and general market conditions. The share repurchase program does not obligate the Bank to acquire any specific number of shares and may be modified, suspended, or discontinued at any time without prior notice. Any future stock repurchase programs would be subject to the approval of the Board of Directors and other various factors, including the Bank’s liquidity, capital position and financial performance, accounting and regulatory considerations, and general market conditions.

Flagstar Bank, N.A.

Flagstar Bank, N.A. is one of the largest regional banks in the country and is headquartered in Hicksville, New York. At June 30, 2026, the Bank had $87.7 billion of assets, $61.2 billion of loans, deposits of $67.5 billion, and total stockholders’ equity of $8.1 billion. Flagstar Bank, N.A. operates approximately 340 locations across nine states, with strong footholds in the greater New York/New Jersey metropolitan region and in the upper Midwest, along with a significant presence in fast-growing markets in Florida and the West Coast.

Cautionary Statements Regarding Forward-Looking Language

This press release may include forward‐looking statements by us and our authorized officers pertaining to such matters as our goals, beliefs, intentions, and expectations regarding, among other things: (a) revenues, earnings, loan production, asset quality, liquidity position, capital levels, risk analysis, divestitures, acquisitions, and other material transactions, among other matters; (b) the future costs and benefits of the actions we may take; (c) our assessments of credit risk and probable losses on loans and associated allowances and reserves; (d) our assessments of interest rate and other market risks; (e) our ability to achieve profitability goals within projected timeframes and to execute on our strategic plan, including the sufficiency of our internal resources, procedures and systems; (f) our ability to execute our capital management strategies, including our ability to complete our current stock repurchase program and to implement future stock repurchase programs; (g) our ability to attract, incentivize, and retain key personnel and the roles of key personnel; (h) our ability to achieve our financial and other strategic goals, including those related to our recent holding company reorganization, which was completed in October 2025 (the “Reorganization”), our merger with Flagstar Bancorp, Inc., which was completed in December 2022, our acquisition of substantial portions of the former Signature Bank through an FDIC-assisted transaction, which was completed in March 2023, and our ability to comply with the heightened regulatory standards with respect to governance and risk management programs to which we are subject as a national bank with assets of $50 billion or more; (i) the impact of the $1.05 billion capital raise we completed in March 2024; (j) the conversion or exchange of shares of our preferred stock; (k) the payment of dividends on shares of our capital stock, including adjustments to the amount of dividends payable on shares of our preferred stock; (l) the dilution of existing equity holders associated with future equity awards and stock issuances; (m) the effects of the reverse stock split we effected in July 2024; and (n) the impact of the 2024 sale of our mortgage servicing operations, third party mortgage loan origination business, and mortgage warehouse business.

Forward‐looking statements are typically identified by such words as “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “outlook,” “estimate,” “forecast,” “project,” “should,” “confident,” and other similar words and expressions, and are subject to numerous assumptions, risks, and uncertainties, which change over time. Additionally, forward‐looking statements speak only as of the date they are made; we do not assume any duty, and do not undertake, to update our forward‐looking statements. Furthermore, because forward‐looking statements are subject to assumptions and uncertainties, actual results or future events could differ, possibly materially, from those anticipated in our statements, and our future performance could differ materially from our historical results.

Our forward‐looking statements are subject to, among others, the following principal risks and uncertainties: general economic conditions and trends, either nationally or locally; conditions in the securities, credit and financial markets; changes in interest rates; changes in deposit flows, and in the demand for deposit, loan, and investment products and other financial services; changes in real estate values; changes in the quality or composition of our loan or investment portfolios, including associated allowances and reserves; changes in future allowance for credit losses, including changes required under relevant accounting and regulatory requirements; the ability to pay future dividends; the ability to implement future stock repurchase programs, which are subject to the approval of the Board of Directors and other various factors, including the Bank’s liquidity, capital position, and financial performance, accounting and regulatory considerations, as well as general market conditions; changes in our capital management and balance sheet strategies and our ability to successfully implement such strategies; our ability to achieve the anticipated benefits of the Reorganization; changes in our Board of Directors and our executive management team; changes in our strategic plan, including changes in our internal resources, procedures and systems, and our ability to successfully implement such plan; changes in competitive pressures among financial institutions or from non‐financial institutions; changes in legislation, regulations, and policies; changes relating to rent regulation and housing, including recent legislative action in New York City to freeze rents on certain rent-regulated properties; the impacts of tariffs, sanctions and other trade policies of the United States and its global trading counterparts; the outcome of federal, state, and local elections and the resulting economic and other impact on the areas in which we conduct business; the impact of changing political conditions or federal government shutdowns; the imposition of restrictions on our operations by bank regulators; the outcome of pending or threatened litigation, or of investigations or any other matters before regulatory agencies, whether currently existing or commencing in the future; our ability to comply with heightened regulatory standards with respect to governance and risk management programs to which we are subject as a national bank with assets of $50 billion or more; the restructuring of our mortgage business; our ability to achieve anticipated cost savings and enhanced efficiencies with respect to our balance sheet and expense reduction strategies; the impact of failures or disruptions in or breaches of our operational or security systems, data or infrastructure, or those of third parties, including as a result of cyberattacks or campaigns; the impact of natural disasters, extreme weather events, civil unrest, international military conflict, terrorism or other geopolitical events; and a variety of other matters which, by their nature, are subject to significant uncertainties and/or are beyond our control. Our forward-looking statements are also subject to the following principal risks and uncertainties with respect to our merger with Flagstar Bancorp, which was completed in December 2022, and our acquisition of substantial portions of the former Signature Bank through an FDIC-assisted transaction, which was completed in March 2023: the possibility that the anticipated benefits of the transactions will not be realized when expected or at all; the possibility of increased legal and compliance costs, including with respect to any litigation or regulatory actions related to the business practices of acquired companies or the combined business; diversion of management’s attention from ongoing business operations and opportunities; the possibility that we may be unable to achieve expected synergies and operating efficiencies in or as a result of the transactions within the expected timeframes or at all; and revenues following the transactions may be lower than expected.

More information regarding some of these factors is provided in the Risk Factors section of our Annual Report on Form 10‐K for the year ended December 31, 2025, and in other reports we file with the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (the “OCC”) and voluntarily file with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), and which are also available on our Investor Relations website. Our forward‐looking statements may also be subject to other risks and uncertainties, including those we may discuss in this news release, on our conference call, during investor presentations, or in our securities disclosure filings. All such files are accessible on our website at ir.flagstar.com, on the OCC’s website at www.occ.gov, and on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov.

Investor Contact:
Salvatore J. DiMartino
(516) 683-4286

Media Contact:
Jessica Torchia
(248) 312-6451

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SOURCE Flagstar Bank, N.A.

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