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NEW YORK, Sept. 04, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- S&P Global Ratings has revised the outlook on the long-term credit ratings of Nasdaq-listed Freedom Holding Corp. and its four core operating subsidiaries from “stable” to “positive,” while affirming their international credit ratings.

The agency also raised the national-scale ratings of Freedom Finance JSC (Freedom Broker) and Freedom Bank Kazakhstan JSC from “kzA-” to “kzA.” The positive outlook applies to Freedom Holding Corp., Freedom Finance JSC, Freedom Finance Global PLC, Freedom Finance Europe Ltd., and Freedom Bank Kazakhstan JSC.

“The improved outlook from S&P underscores that, strategically, we are moving in the right direction. We chose not to develop each business in isolation, but to build our own global institutional ecosystem. At the same time, we are strengthening corporate governance and risk management and working to improve the efficiency of our business model across all the jurisdictions in which we operate. S&P’s positive outlook shows that this progress is being recognized by independent international rating agencies,” said Timur Turlov, CEO of Freedom Holding Corp.

S&P describes Freedom Finance as Kazakhstan’s largest retail brokerage franchise and notes the group’s growing presence in Europe, complemented by its banking and insurance businesses in Kazakhstan. The agency expects moderate balance-sheet growth and earnings diversified across businesses and geographies to support the group’s strong capitalization.

The agency also highlights Freedom’s continued development of group-wide risk management and consolidated compliance functions. S&P believes stronger controls at both group and subsidiary level should help the company monitor and manage risks as the business grows. It also expects Freedom to continue expanding its financial and non-financial businesses without putting undue pressure on capitalization.

The positive outlook means S&P could raise the ratings over the next 12 months if its assessment of economic risks in Kazakhstan improves further. The outlook revision comes against a more favorable assessment of Kazakhstan’s economic environment. On August 21, S&P upgraded Kazakhstan’s sovereign credit ratings to “BBB/A-2” from “BBB-/A-3,” with a stable outlook. The agency said resilient economic growth, easing economic imbalances and stronger regulatory oversight could contribute to better conditions for the country’s financial sector.

The latest action follows another positive S&P rating move earlier this year. In June, the agency upgraded Freedom Finance JSC, Freedom Finance Europe Ltd., Freedom Finance Global PLC and Freedom Bank Kazakhstan JSC to “BB-.”

About Freedom Holding Corp.

Freedom Holding Corp. provides financial services in 24 countries, including Kazakhstan, the United States, multiple EU countries, Uzbekistan, and Armenia. The Company’s principal executive office is located in New York City. In Kazakhstan, Freedom is actively developing its financial and digital ecosystem, which includes Freedom Bank, Freedom Broker, the insurance companies Freedom Life and Freedom insurance, as well as a lifestyle segment that features Arbuz.kz, Freedom Ticketon, and Aviata. Freedom Holding Corp. shares are traded on the U.S. technology exchange NASDAQ, the Kazakhstan Stock Exchange (KASE), and the Astana International Exchange (AIX) under the ticker symbol FRHC. Freedom Holding Corp. is regulated by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the common stock is included in the Russell 3000 Index.

Contact

Natalia Kharlashina
Freedom Holding Corp.
[email protected]
+77013641454

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d4024829-af79-4ea6-82a8-5a4711b15483

ISTANBUL, Turkey, Aug. 19, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Freedom Yatırım Menkul Değerler A.Ş., a subsidiary of Freedom Holding Corp. (NASDAQ: FRHC), has received an operating license from the Capital Markets Board of Türkiye (CMB). Freedom Yatırım has become the first broadly authorized foreign brokerage firm to receive such a license in Türkiye since 1992.

The license marks an important step in Freedom Holding Corp.’s expansion in Türkiye and supports its broader strategy to grow its brokerage business and international capital markets infrastructure in the country.

“Receiving this operating license is an important milestone for Freedom Holding Corp. It marks our entry into the Turkish brokerage market as the first broadly authorized foreign firm to receive such a license in 34 years,” said Timur Turlov, Founder and CEO of Freedom Holding Corp.

Freedom Holding Corp. operates through more than 200 offices in over 20 countries across North America, Europe, and Asia. According to its latest financial statements filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), the company’s total assets stood at US$14 billion as of June 30, 2026. Brokerage remains one of its core business lines, accounting for approximately 39% of total net revenue.

Freedom Yatırım will draw on Freedom Holding Corp.’s international brokerage expertise, technology, and infrastructure as it prepares to launch investment services in Türkiye.

Connecting Türkiye with International Markets

Freedom Yatırım plans to offer more than traditional brokerage services. Using TraderNet, Freedom Holding Corp.’s proprietary trading platform, the company intends to build infrastructure that provides two-way access between the Turkish market and international capital markets.

For investors in Türkiye, the goal is to gradually broaden access to international markets through Freedom Holding Corp.’s global brokerage capabilities.

Freedom Yatırım has also completed its integration with Borsa İstanbul, giving clients across the Group’s international brokerage network access to investment opportunities in the Turkish market. The network has more than 870,000 client accounts.

Freedom Holding Corp. expects this infrastructure to help increase international participation in Türkiye’s capital markets and strengthen links between Borsa İstanbul and global financial markets.

Building an Integrated Digital Ecosystem

Freedom Holding Corp. recently completed the acquisition of a 99.32% stake in Turkish Bank A.Ş. through its subsidiary Freedom Finansal Hizmetler A.Ş. Following the acquisition, the bank’s shareholders approved the change of its trade name to Freedom Bank A.Ş.

Together, Freedom Bank and Freedom Yatırım are expected to form the core of Freedom Holding Corp.’s digital financial ecosystem in Türkiye, combining banking and investment services with other digital offerings.

“Our ambition in Türkiye goes beyond brokerage. We plan to build an integrated digital financial ecosystem around Freedom Bank and Freedom Yatırım, bringing banking, investment, and other digital services together over time. We will draw on our experience in Kazakhstan, where Freedom SuperApp already combines financial and everyday digital services within a single platform, while adapting the model to the needs of the Turkish market,” Turlov stated.

For the local team, the next stage will be to combine the Group’s international capabilities with expertise in the Turkish market.

“Türkiye is a long-term market for us. We want to combine the Group’s technology, financial strength, and international capital markets expertise with strong local knowledge to build a sustainable business here,” said Vladimir Pochekuev, Partner at Freedom Holding Corp. and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Freedom Yatırım Menkul Değerler A.Ş.

Pochekuev also expressed his appreciation to the Capital Markets Board of Türkiye for its constructive and professional engagement throughout the licensing process.

Preparing to Launch Operations

Following receipt of its operating license, Freedom Yatırım is continuing to prepare for the launch of full-scale operations in the Turkish market. The company is conducting comprehensive system testing and finalizing its operational readiness.

Freedom Yatırım intends to offer clients technology-driven, user-friendly investment services tailored to the regulatory requirements and specific needs of the Turkish market.

“Türkiye has a large and increasingly sophisticated investor base, with growing interest in diversifying portfolios across markets and asset classes. Our focus will be on combining access to international markets with strong local expertise and a high standard of client service,” said Vusal Mamedov, Senior Adviser to the Board of Directors of Freedom Yatırım.

About Freedom Yatırım Menkul Değerler A.Ş.

Freedom Yatırım Menkul Değerler A.Ş. operates under Freedom Finansal Hizmetler A.Ş., a wholly owned subsidiary of Freedom Holding Corp. The company received approval for its establishment from the Capital Markets Board of Türkiye (CMB) in 2025 and, upon completing all regulatory requirements, obtained its operating license in 2026 to provide brokerage services in Türkiye’s capital markets. Freedom Yatırım seeks to leverage its international expertise and in-depth understanding of the Turkish market to provide investors with innovative investment solutions.

About Freedom Holding Corp.

Freedom Holding Corp. provides financial services in 24 countries, including Kazakhstan, the United States, multiple EU countries, Uzbekistan, and Armenia. The Company’s principal executive office is located in New York City. In Kazakhstan, Freedom is actively developing its financial and digital ecosystem, which includes Freedom Bank, Freedom Broker, the insurance companies Freedom Life and Freedom insurance, as well as a lifestyle segment that features Arbuz.kz, Freedom Ticketon, and Aviata. Freedom Holding Corp. shares are traded on the U.S. technology exchange NASDAQ, the Kazakhstan Stock Exchange (KASE), and the Astana International Exchange (AIX) under the ticker symbol FRHC. Freedom Holding Corp. is regulated by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the common stock is included in the Russell 3000 Index.

Contact
Head of Public Relations
Natalia Kharlashina
Freedom Holding Corp.
[email protected]
+77013641454

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at:
https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/a0648ce2-d007-4128-9dcc-6183eb248e64

, /PRNewswire/ -- Freedom Financial Holdings (OTCQX: FDVA), (the "Company" or "Freedom"), the holding company for The Freedom Bank of Virginia (the "Bank") today announced net income of $289,621 or $0.04 per diluted share for the second quarter compared to net income of $1,160,338, or $0.16 per diluted share for the three months ended March 31, 2026, and net income of $799,896 or $0.11 per diluted share for the three months ended June 30, 2025.  The current quarter included a write down on the carrying value of the firm's OREO of $668,301, from $1,302,801 to its appraised land value of $634,500.  The quarter also saw an increase in the firm's allowance for loan loss with provision expense of $538,805, $385,208 of which was due in part to an increase in C&I loan balances and unfunded commitments for future loans and $153,597 due to from net charge-offs in the quarter.

Joseph J. Thomas, President, and CEO, commented, "The company experienced revenue growth in the quarter of 5.49% compared to prior year calendar quarter.  Adjusted for the write down in our only OREO asset, we reported Pre-tax, Pre-Provision Net Income of $1,560,746 which is 3.69% better than linked quarter.  For the second quarter of 2026, our Yield on Earning Assets improved to 5.57% in the quarter from 5.44% in Q1 due to improvement in asset mix, which translated into a net interest margin improvement of 10 basis points, to 2.83% from 2.73% in the prior quarter.  In addition, our mortgage division had a very strong quarter that closed 112 mortgages and $54 million of loan volume, increasing gain on sale revenue by 14.6% compared to the prior quarter.  We remain vigilant in our efforts to improve asset quality and believe we have eliminated future volatility in our earnings from this quarter's OREO and provision expense.  At the same time, our entire team is focused on improving our net interest margin through core deposit growth, better deposit mix and reduced deposit costs.  We celebrated the grand opening of our new branch and corporate headquarters in Tysons Corner this quarter and the 25th anniversary of Freedom Bank on July 23, 2026.  We are well positioned for the future as a relationship-driven, technology-enabled bank serving entrepreneurs, businesses, and families throughout Northern Virginia with experienced bankers who understand our client's dreams, quick, local decisions, and flexible, innovative solutions delivered with exceptional service.

Second Quarter 2026 Highlights include:

The Company posted net income of $289,621 or $0.04 per diluted share for the second quarter compared to net income of $1,160,338 or $0.16 per diluted share for the three months ended March 31, 2026, and net income of $799,896 or $0.11 per diluted share for the three months ended June 30, 2025. Tangible Book Value per share improved during the quarter by $0.12 to $12.20 on June 30, 2026, compared to $12.08 on March 31, 2026, with quarter-to-date earnings and improvement on the valuation of the available for sale portfolio. Return on Average Assets ("ROAA") was 0.11% for the quarter ended June 30, 2026, compared to ROAA of 0.44% for the quarter ended March 31, 2026, and 0.29% for the three months ended June 30, 2025. Return on Average Equity ("ROAE") was 1.38% for the quarter ended June 30, 2026, compared to ROAE of 5.57% for the three months ended March 31, 2025, and 3.97% for the three months ended June 30, 2025. Total Assets were $1.039 billion on June 30, 2026, a decrease of $14 million or 1.33% from total assets on March 31, 2026, as cash and securities came down and brokered deposit balances were reduced. Gross Loans held-for-investment decreased by $7.3 million or 0.94% during the quarter. Total deposits decreased by $42 million or by 4.64% during the quarter, led by a $30 million reduction in brokered deposits. Non-interest-bearing demand deposits decreased by $7.3 million during the quarter to $142.1 million and represented 16.24% of total deposits on June 30, 2026. The net interest margin1 increased in the second quarter to 2.83%, higher by 10 basis points compared to the linked quarter and by 18 basis points compared to the same period in 2025. The increase in the net interest margin across linked quarters was a result of holding less low margin assets, while the decrease for the same period a year ago is related to cost of funds reductions.  The cost of funds was 2.85% for the second quarter, higher by 1 basis point compared to the linked quarter and lower by 35 basis points compared to the same period in 2025, as a result of a decline in deposit costs and borrowing costs. Non-interest income increased by 17% compared to the linked quarter and by 26% compared to the same period in 2025. The increase in non-interest income in the second quarter of 2026 was primarily due to higher net revenue from the mortgage unit along with gains in the Bank's SBIC investments. Non-interest expense increased by $943 thousand in the second quarter or by 14% compared to the linked quarter and increased by 22% compared to the same period in 2025. The increase in expenses compared to the linked quarter was largely due to the $668 thousand write down in the Bank's OREO valuation.  Professional Fees were also elevated in the quarter and the Bank increased its marketing expense to promote its new Tysons Corner location.    The Efficiency Ratio2 was 89.67% for the quarter ended June 30, 2026, compared to 81.88% for the linked quarter and 77.57% for the same period in 2025.  Excluding the OREO write-down, the efficiency ratio would have been similar to the prior period at 81.93%. Uninsured deposits were 24.9% of total deposits and total liquidity to uninsured deposits3 was 118.71% of uninsured deposits on June 30, 2026. Net charge offs were 0.02% of average loans compared to 0.81% in the prior quarter which had the $6.2 million in charge-offs mostly related to one large loan that had been provisioned for in 2025. The ratio of non-accrual loans to loans held-for-investment was 3.32% on June 30, 2026, compared to 2.46% on March 31, 2026, and 1.45% on June 30, 2025.  The ratio of non-performing assets to total assets was  2.57% on June 30, 2026, compared to 1.95% on March 31, 2026, and 0.98% on June 30, 2025. The Company recognized a provision for loan losses of $538,805, related to changes in the overall portfolio including C&I loan growth. The ratio of the allowance for loan losses to loans held-for-investment was 1.06% at June 30, 2026 compared to 1.00% at the end of the linked quarter. The Bank continues to be well capitalized and capital ratios continue to be strong with a Leverage ratio of 11.06%, Common Equity Tier 1 ratio of 13.66%, Tier 1 Risk Based Capital ratio of 13.66% and a Total Capital ratio of 14.63% as of June 30, 2026.  Common Equity Tier 1, Tier 1 Risk Based Capital, and Total Capital ratios are up by 16 basis points, 16 basis points, and 21 basis points, respectively, due to the Bank holding lower average assets in the quarter, and accumulating earnings. Net Interest Income

The Company recorded net interest income of $6.979 million for the second quarter of 2026, higher by 1.21% compared to the linked quarter, and by 1.5% compared to the same period in 2025. The net interest margin in the first quarter of 2026 was 2.83%, higher by 10 basis points compared to the linked quarter and by 18 basis points compared to the same period in 2025.

The following factors contributed to the changes in net interest margin during the first quarter of 2026 compared to the linked and calendar quarters.

Yields on average earning assets were 5.57% in the second quarter of 2026, higher by 13 basis points compared to the linked quarter, and lower by 16 basis points compared to the prior year calendar quarter. The increase in yields on average earning assets in the second quarter compared to the linked quarter was primarily due to decreased cash and decreased securities held on the balance sheet in the quarter.  The decrease over the calendar quarter is largely due to  interest rate decreases on cash and floating rate securities and loans that took place over the second half of 2025.   Loan yields increased by 4 basis point to 6.01% from 5.97% in the linked quarter, while yields on investment securities increased by 4 basis points to 4.01% from 3.97% in the linked quarter. Loan yields decreased by 19 basis points, while yields on investment securities decreased by 38 basis points compared to the calendar quarter. Cost of funds increased by 1 basis point to 2.85% from 2.84% in the linked quarter, and by 35 basis points compared to the prior year quarter, due to lower deposit and borrowing costs. Non-interest Income

Non-interest income was $1.66 million for the first quarter, an increase of 17% when compared to the linked quarter and an increase of 26% when compared to the same period in 2025. The increase in non-interest income in the second quarter of 2026 compared to the linked quarter and the prior calendar quarter was due to higher revenue from the gain on sale of mortgage loans and SBIC investment income. 

Total Revenue4

Total revenue, defined as the sum of net interest income, before provision for loan losses, and non-interest income, was higher by 3.98% compared to the linked quarter and by 5.49% compared to the calendar quarter in 2025. The increase in total revenue compared to the linked and calendar quarter was due to an increase in the net interest margin and from the gain on sale of residential mortgages. 

Non-interest Expense

Non-interest expense in the second quarter increased by $943 thousand or by 13.9% compared to the linked quarter and increased by 21.9% compared to the same period in 2025. The increase in expenses compared to the linked quarter  and calendar quarter was largely attributable to the $668 thousand OREO write-down.  We also increased our marketing expenses related to promoting the new location and saw an increase in Professional Fees.

The Efficiency Ratio2 was 89.67% for the quarter ended June 30, 2026, compared to 81.88% for the linked quarter and 77.57% for the same period in 2025.   If not for the OREO expense in the quarter, the Bank would have had a 81.93%  efficiency ratio.

Asset Quality

Non-accrual loans increased in the second quarter and were 3.32% of loans held-for-investment compared to 2.46% of loans held-for-investment at the end of the linked quarter. Total non-performing assets (defined as the sum of loans on non-accrual, loans greater than 90 days past due and accruing, and OREO assets) were 2.57% of total assets as of June 30, 2026, compared to 1.95% of total assets, at the end of the linked quarter.

The Company recognized a provision for loan losses of $538,805, primarily related to changes in the overall portfolio mix.

The Company's ratio of Allowance for Loan Losses to loans held-for-investment was 1.06% as of June 30, 2026, compared to the ratio of Allowance for Loan Losses to loans held-for-investment of 1.00% as of March 31, 2026.

Total Assets

Total assets on June 30, 2026, were $1.039 billion compared to total assets of $1.053 billion on March 31, 2026.  Changes in major asset categories since March 31, 2026, were as follows:

Interest bearing deposits at banks decreased by $6.7 million. Investment balances decreased by $6.5 million. Gross loans held-for investment decreased by $7.27 million Residential mortgage loans held for sale increased by $1.74 million Total Liabilities

Total liabilities on June 30, 2026, were $953.72 million compared to total liabilities of $968.58 million on March 31, 2026. Total deposits were $874.82 million on June 30, 2026, compared to total deposits of $917.36 million on March 31, 2026. Non-interest-bearing demand deposits decreased by $7.3 million during the second quarter and comprised 16.23% of total deposits at the end of the second quarter. Brokered Deposits decreased by $30.0 million while Federal Home Loan Bank borrowings increased by $25.0 million.

Stockholders' Equity and Capital

Stockholders' equity as of June 30, 2026, was $85.15 million compared to $84.25 million on March 31, 2026. AOCI increased during the second quarter as there was a slight decrease in unrealized losses on available-for-sale securities. The tangible book value of the Company's common stock on June 30, 2026, was $12.20 per share compared to $12.08 on March 31, 2026. Excluding AOCI losses/gains5, the tangible book value of the Company's common stock on June 30, 2026, was $14.29 per share compared to $14.18 on March 31, 2026.

Stock Buyback Program

In the second quarter, the Company did not have any purchases under its previously announced share repurchase program.  As of June 30, 2026, the Company had repurchased 43,800 of the 250,000 shares currently authorized for repurchase under the program that was approved at the end of 2025. The Board of Directors continues to believe that the share buyback program represents a disciplined capital management strategy for the Company. 

Capital Ratios

As of June 30, 2026, the Bank's capital ratios were well above regulatory minimum capital ratios for well-capitalized bank holding companies. The Bank's capital ratios as of June 30, 2026, and March 31, 2026, were as follows:

June 30, 2026

March 31, 2026

Total Capital Ratio    

14.63 %

14.42 %

Tier 1 Capital Ratio    

13.66 %

13.50 %

Common Equity Tier 1 Capital Ratio  

13.66 %

13.50 %

Leverage Ratio      

11.06 %

10.70 %

About Freedom Financial Holdings, Inc.

Freedom Financial Holdings, Inc. is the holding company of The Freedom Bank of Virginia, a community bank with locations in Fairfax, Reston, Chantilly, Vienna, Tysons Corner, and Manassas, Virginia. For information about deposits, loans and other services, visit the website at www.freedom.bank.

Forward Looking Statements

This release contains forward-looking statements, including our expectations with respect to future events that are subject to various risks and uncertainties. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from management's projections, forecasts, estimates, and expectations include: fluctuation in market rates of interest and loan and deposit pricing; general economic and financial market conditions, in the United States generally and particularly in the markets in which the Company operates and in which its loans are concentrated, including the effects of declines in real estate values, increases in unemployment levels, inflation, recessions and slowdowns in economic growth, including as a result of the impact of geopolitical conflicts; the impact of any U.S. federal government shutdown; U.S. and global trade policies and changes, including the impact of the imposition of or changes in tariffs and trade barriers; adverse developments in the financial services industry; maintenance and development of well-established and valued client relationships and referral source relationships; the adequacy or inadequacy of our allowance for credit losses; acquisition or loss of key production personnel; and the potential adverse effects of unusual and infrequently occurring events, such as weather-related disasters, wars, terrorist acts or public health events, and of governmental and societal responses thereto; these potential adverse effects may include, without limitation, adverse effects on the ability of the Company's borrowers to satisfy their obligations to the Company, on the value of collateral securing loans, on the demand for the Company's loans or its other products and services, on incidents of cyberattack and fraud, on the Company's liquidity or capital positions, on risks posed by reliance on third-party service providers, on other aspects of the Company's business operations and on financial markets and economic growth. The Company cautions readers that the list of factors above is not exclusive. The forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this release, and the Company may not undertake steps to update the forward-looking statements to reflect the impact of any circumstances or events that arise after the date the forward-looking statements are made. In addition, our past results of operations are not necessarily indicative of future performance.

 FREEDOM FINANCIAL HOLDINGS

  CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(Unaudited)

(Unaudited)

(Audited)

June 30,

March 31,

December 31,

2026

2026

2025

 ASSETS

 

Cash and Due from Banks

$                            5,458,898

$                           4,527,248

$                            4,540,452

Interest Bearing Deposits with Banks

26,936,559

33,646,083

70,078,398

Securities Available-for-Sale

150,739,160

156,852,319

158,446,651

Securities Held-to-Maturity

17,846,586

18,242,410

19,242,952

Restricted Stock Investments

5,655,600

4,468,100

5,435,300

Loans Held for Sale

13,812,357

12,077,102

4,283,305

PPP Loans Held for Investment 

112,661

112,661

117,738

Other Loans Held for Investment 

763,549,261

770,827,073

762,435,469

Allowance for Loan Losses

(8,058,550)

(7,696,395)

(13,897,689)

Net Loans

769,415,729

775,320,441

752,938,823

Bank Premises and Equipment, net

1,499,670

1,189,003

728,030

Accrued Interest Receivable

4,525,299

4,463,908

4,059,501

Deferred Tax Asset

7,542,341

7,579,833

7,428,794

Bank-Owned Life Insurance

28,936,144

28,700,809

28,469,911

Right of Use Asset, net

5,339,622

5,657,815

1,582,514

Other Assets

14,970,136

12,178,246

12,931,701

Total Assets

$ 1,038,865,744

$1,052,826,215

$ 1,065,883,027

 LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY

 

Deposits

Demand Deposits

Non-interest Bearing

$                       142,064,271

$                      149,338,747

$                       149,516,366

Interest Bearing

540,859,808

548,420,087

555,799,698

Savings Deposits

2,151,753

2,289,866

1,989,696

Time Deposits

189,748,053

217,315,240

206,958,024

Total Deposits

874,823,885

917,363,940

914,263,784

Federal Home Loan Bank Advances

45,000,000

20,000,000

40,000,000

Other Borrowings

-

112,661

117,737

Subordinated Debt (Net of Issuance Costs)

19,967,531

19,948,049

19,928,568

Accrued Interest Payable

546,253

887,034

913,813

Lease Liability

5,697,751

5,878,842

1,666,836

Other Liabilities

7,682,523

4,385,636

4,852,310

Total Liabilities

$     953,717,943

$    968,576,162

$     981,743,048

 Stockholders' Equity

 

Preferred stock, $0.01 par value, 5,000,000 shares authorized:

0 Shares Issued and Outstanding, June 30, 2026, March 31, 2026 and December 31, 2025

Common Stock, $0.01 Par Value, 25,000,000 Shares authorized:

23,000,000 Shares Voting and 2,000,000 Shares Non-voting.

Voting Common Stock:

6,978,754 , 6,973,747 and 6,984,013 Shares Issued and Outstanding

    at June 30, 2026, March 31, 2026 and December 31, 2025 respectively

69,788

69,737

69,840

Non-Voting Common Stock:

-

-

-

0 Shares Issued and Outstanding at June 30, 2026, March 31, 2026

 and December 31, 2025 respectively)

 Additional Paid-in Capital 

56,565,519

56,029,673

56,624,236

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Net

(14,573,309)

(14,645,539)

(14,189,941)

Retained Earnings

43,085,803

42,796,182

41,635,844

Total Stockholders' Equity

$       85,147,801

$      84,250,053

$       84,139,979

 Total Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity

  $ 1,038,865,744

$1,052,826,215

$ 1,065,883,027

 FREEDOM FINANCIAL HOLDINGS 

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

(Unaudited)

(Unaudited)

(Unaudited)

(Unaudited)

For the three

For the three

For the six

For the six

months ended

months ended

months ended

months ended

June 30, 2026

June 30, 2025

June 30, 2026

June 30, 2025

 Interest Income 

Interest and Fees on Loans

$              11,650,836

$              11,673,927

$              22,927,087

$              24,377,509

Interest on Investment Securities

1,787,268

2,450,914

3,560,347

5,064,172

Interest on Deposits with Other Banks

285,510

750,611

988,900

1,013,118

Total Interest Income

13,723,614

14,875,452

27,476,334

30,454,799

 Interest Expense 

Interest on Deposits

6,151,712

7,275,073

12,491,753

14,221,266

Interest on Borrowings

592,778

724,216

1,110,069

1,637,370

Total Interest Expense

6,744,490

7,999,289

13,601,822

15,858,637

Net Interest Income

6,979,124

6,876,162

13,874,512

14,596,162

 Provision/(Recovery) for Loan Losses 

538,805

688,865

598,141

973,548

Net Interest Income After

Provision for Loan Losses

6,440,319

6,187,298

13,276,371

13,622,614

Non-Interest Income 

Mortgage Loan Gain-on-Sale and Fee Revenue

1,079,890

797,759

2,022,147

1,455,072

 SBA Gain-on-Sale Revenue

-

-

-

-

Service Charges and Other Income

327,093

270,230

547,834

344,121

 Servicing Income

16,001

21,045

33,494

47,147

Increase in Cash Surrender Value of Bank-

owned Life Insurance

235,334

223,061

466,233

443,925

Total Non-interest Income

1,658,318

1,312,094

3,069,708

2,290,265

Total Revenue

8,637,442

8,188,257

16,944,220

16,886,427

 Non-Interest Expenses 

Officer and Employee Compensation

and Benefits

4,373,967

3,752,761

8,777,587

7,522,296

Occupancy Expense

375,936

244,279

740,877

486,442

Equipment and Depreciation Expense

11,336

16,619

22,048

25,345

Insurance Expense

245,402

220,346

452,001

446,112

Professional Fees

439,501

559,904

785,807

1,030,213

Data and Item Processing

587,093

595,492

1,118,056

1,133,705

Advertising  

109,791

151,676

191,391

234,791

Franchise Taxes and State Assessment Fees

329,846

314,444

656,415

628,658

Mortgage Fees and Settlements

153,051

99,819

227,890

174,548

Other Operating Expense

1,119,074

396,213

1,574,469

690,447

Total Non-interest Expenses

7,744,997

6,351,552

14,546,541

12,372,557

Income Before Income Taxes

353,640

1,147,840

1,799,538

3,540,322

 Income Tax Expense/(Benefit) 

64,019

347,943

349,579

721,082

 Net Income 

$                       289,621

$                       799,896

$                    1,449,959

$                    2,819,240

Earnings per Common Share - Basic 

$                              0.04

$                              0.11

$                              0.20

$                              0.39

 Earnings per Common Share - Diluted 

$                              0.04

$                              0.11

$                              0.20

$                              0.39

 Weighted-Average Common Shares 

 Outstanding - Basic 

7,098,594

7,137,779

7,101,643

7,151,171

 Weighted-Average Common Shares  

 Outstanding - Diluted 

7,124,543

7,140,491

7,175,023

7,153,655

FREEDOM FINANCIAL HOLDINGS

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS  

(Unaudited)

(Unaudited)

(Unaudited)

(Unaudited)

(Unaudited)

For the three

For the three

For the three

For the three

For the three

months ended

months ended

months ended

months ended

months ended

June 30, 2026

March 31, 2026

December 31, 2025

September 30, 2025

June 30, 2025

Interest Income

Interest and Fees on Loans

$                          11,650,836

$                11,276,251

$                11,337,250

$                11,671,310

$                11,673,927

Interest on Investment Securities

1,787,268

1,773,078

2,224,322

2,307,732

2,450,914

Interest on Deposits with Other Banks

285,510

703,390

214,396

507,622

750,610

Total Interest Income

13,723,614

13,752,719

13,775,968

14,486,664

14,875,451

Interest Expense

Interest on Deposits

6,151,712

6,340,041

6,260,656

7,036,552

7,275,073

Interest on Borrowings

592,778

517,291

818,943

701,474

724,216

Total Interest Expense

6,744,490

6,857,332

7,079,599

7,738,026

7,999,289

Net Interest Income

6,979,124

6,895,387

6,696,369

6,748,638

6,876,162

Provision/(Recovery) for Loan Losses

538,805

59,336

6,941,897

496,824

688,865

Net Interest Income After

Provision for Loan Losses

6,440,319

6,836,051

(245,528)

6,251,814

6,187,297

Non-Interest Income

Mortgage Loan Gain-on-Sale and Fee Revenue

1,079,890

942,257

680,766

718,684

797,759

 SBA Gain-on-Sale Revenue

-

-

-

-

-

Service Charges and Other Income

327,093

220,740

246,568

453,981

270,230

 Servicing Income

16,001

17,493

18,303

19,060

21,045

Increase in Cash Surrender Value of Bank-

owned Life Insurance

235,334

230,899

233,820

231,549

223,061

Total Non-interest Income

1,658,318

1,411,389

1,179,457

1,423,274

1,312,095

Total Revenue

8,637,442

8,306,776

7,875,826

8,171,912

8,188,257

Non-Interest Expenses

Officer and Employee Compensation

and Benefits

4,373,967

4,403,621

3,562,780

4,067,037

3,752,761

Occupancy Expense

375,936

364,940

239,846

246,378

244,279

Equipment and Depreciation Expense

11,336

10,712

12,898

16,039

16,619

Insurance Expense

245,402

206,599

126,852

244,170

220,346

Professional Fees

439,501

346,305

375,040

291,975

559,904

Data and Item Processing

587,093

530,962

523,717

540,506

595,492

Advertising  

109,791

81,600

63,476

112,566

151,676

Franchise Taxes and State Assessment Fees

329,846

326,569

324,569

334,422

314,444

Mortgage Fees and Settlements

153,051

74,839

70,037

106,266

99,819

Other Operating Expense

1,119,074

455,395

315,610

368,343

396,213

Total Non-interest Expenses

7,744,997

6,801,542

5,614,825

6,327,702

6,351,552

Income Before Income Taxes

353,640

1,445,898

(4,680,896)

1,347,386

1,147,840

Income Tax Expense/(Benefit)

64,019

285,560

(1,112,923)

224,456

347,943

Net Income (Loss)

$                                   289,621

$                      1,160,338

$                    (3,567,973)

$                      1,122,930

$                         799,897

Earnings (Loss) per Common Share - Basic

$                                          0.04

$                                0.16

$                              (0.50)

$                                0.16

$                                0.11

Earnings (Loss) per Common Share - Diluted

$                                          0.04

$                                0.16

$                              (0.50)

$                                0.16

$                                0.11

Weighted-Average Common Shares

Outstanding - Basic

7,098,594

7,104,820

7,121,482

7,134,446

7,137,779

Weighted-Average Common Shares 

Outstanding - Diluted

7,124,543

7,174,318

7,183,791

7,184,688

7,140,491

Average Balances, Income and Expenses, Yields and Rates

(Unaudited)

Three Months Ended

Three Months Ended

Three Months Ended

Three Months Ended

June 30, 2026

March 31, 2026

December 31, 2025

September 30, 2025

Average Balance

Income/
Expense

Yield

Average Balance

Income/
Expense

Yield

Average Balance

Income/
Expense

Yield

Average Balance

Income/
Expense

Yield

Assets

Cash

$32,056,464

$277,476

3.47 %

$78,256,733

$703,390

3.65 %

$23,427,239

$214,395

3.63 %

$46,853,763

$507,622

4.30 %

Investments (Tax Exempt)

$19,253,217

$150,043

3.13 %

$19,983,529

$150,924

3.06 %

$20,215,951

$154,645

3.03 %

$19,928,687

$155,780

3.10 %

Investments (Taxable)

$160,163,550

$1,645,259

4.12 %

$161,336,487

$1,622,154

4.08 %

$188,641,324

$2,069,677

4.35 %

$193,341,006

$2,151,952

4.42 %

Total Investments

$179,416,767

$1,795,302

4.01 %

$181,320,016

$1,773,078

3.97 %

$208,857,275

$2,224,322

4.23 %

$213,269,693

$2,307,732

4.29 %

Total Loans 

$777,241,247

$11,650,836

6.01 %

$766,481,826

$11,276,251

5.97 %

$752,172,975

$11,337,250

5.98 %

$744,905,635

$11,671,310

6.22 %

Earning Assets

$988,714,478

$13,723,614

5.57 %

$1,026,058,575

$13,752,719

5.44 %

$984,457,489

$13,775,967

5.55 %

$1,005,029,091

$14,486,664

5.72 %

Assets

$1,047,065,095

$289,621

0.11 %

$1,075,063,057

$1,160,338

0.44 %

$1,036,072,664

($3,567,973)

-1.37 %

$1,058,353,304

$1,122,930

0.42 %

Liabilities

Interest Checking

$128,410,952

$862,935

2.70 %

$139,199,596

$872,499

2.54 %

$151,579,307

$934,090

2.44 %

$127,149,614

$998,124

3.11 %

Money Market

$281,596,967

$2,111,939

3.01 %

$314,492,661

$2,346,245

3.03 %

$297,707,680

$2,468,165

3.29 %

$320,887,145

$2,722,629

3.37 %

Savings

$2,298,115

$1,120

0.20 %

$2,092,200

$1,087

0.21 %

$1,973,024

$1,045

0.21 %

$2,415,353

$1,051

0.17 %

Time Deposits 

$338,730,230

$3,175,717

3.76 %

$334,036,792

$3,120,209

3.79 %

$285,497,039

$2,857,356

3.97 %

$317,448,404

$3,314,747

4.14 %

Interest Bearing Deposits

$751,036,264

$6,151,711

3.29 %

$789,821,247

$6,340,041

3.26 %

$736,757,050

$6,260,656

3.37 %

$767,900,516

$7,036,551

3.64 %

Borrowings

$61,577,333

$592,778

3.86 %

$55,160,259

$517,291

3.80 %

$76,844,331

$818,943

4.23 %

$61,329,539

$701,474

4.54 %

Interest Bearing Liabilities

$812,613,597

$6,744,490

3.33 %

$844,981,507

$6,857,332

3.29 %

$813,601,381

$7,079,599

3.45 %

$829,230,055

$7,738,025

3.70 %

Non Interest Bearing Deposits

$             137,774,380

$             135,220,445

$             125,385,868

$             133,933,651

Cost of Funds

$             950,387,978

$    6,744,490

2.85 %

$             980,201,952

$    6,857,332

2.84 %

$             938,987,249

$    7,079,599

2.99 %

$             963,163,706

$    7,738,025

3.19 %

Net Interest Margin

$988,714,479

$6,979,124

2.83 %

$1,026,058,575

$6,895,388

2.73 %

$984,457,489

$6,696,368

2.70 %

$1,005,029,091

$6,748,638

2.66 %

 Average Balances, Income and Expenses, Yields and Rates  

(Unaudited) 

 Three Months Ended 

 Three Months Ended 

Six Months Ended 

Six Months Ended 

 June 30, 2026 

 June 30, 2025 

June 30, 2026 

 June 30, 2025 

Average Balance

Income/ Expense

Yield

Average Balance

Income/ Expense

Yield

Average Balance

Income/ Expense

Yield

Average Balance

Income/ Expense

Yield

 Assets 

 Cash 

$32,056,464

$277,476

3.47 %

$65,570,216

$750,611

4.59 %

$55,028,974

$980,866

3.59 %

$47,777,734

$1,013,118

4.28 %

Investments (Tax Exempt)

$19,253,217

$150,043

3.13 %

$19,843,159

$156,555

3.18 %

$19,616,356

$300,967

3.09 %

$20,027,655

$323,442

3.26 %

Investments (Taxable)

$160,163,550

$1,645,259

4.12 %

$204,066,557

$2,294,359

4.52 %

$160,746,778

$3,267,413

4.10 %

$208,324,597

$4,750,529

4.60 %

Total Investments

$179,416,767

$1,795,302

4.01 %

$223,909,716

$2,450,914

4.39 %

$180,363,134

$3,568,380

3.99 %

$228,352,252

$5,073,971

4.48 %

Total Loans 

$777,241,247

$11,650,836

6.01 %

$755,231,852

$11,673,926

6.20 %

$771,891,259

$22,927,087

5.99 %

$759,665,068

$24,377,509

6.47 %

Earning Assets

$988,714,478

$13,723,614

5.57 %

$1,044,711,784

$14,875,451

5.73 %

$1,007,283,367

$27,476,333

5.50 %

$1,035,795,054

$30,464,598

5.93 %

Assets

$1,047,065,095

289,621

0.11 %

$1,100,110,176

799,897

0.29 %

$1,060,986,734

1,449,959

0.28 %

$1,092,025,722

2,819,240

0.52 %

 Liabilities

Interest Checking

$128,410,952

$862,935

2.70 %

$125,175,008

$979,587

3.13 %

$133,775,471

$1,735,435

2.62 %

$123,980,287

$1,909,186

3.11 %

Money Market

$281,596,967

$2,111,939

3.01 %

$396,798,385

$3,620,383

3.65 %

$297,953,942

$4,458,185

3.02 %

$372,579,031

$6,779,987

3.67 %

Savings

$2,298,115

$1,120

0.20 %

$6,727,490

$1,503

0.09 %

$2,195,726

$2,207

0.20 %

$5,569,639

$2,658

0.10 %

Time Deposits 

$338,730,231

$3,175,717

3.76 %

$272,467,884

$2,673,600

3.93 %

$336,396,476

$6,295,927

3.77 %

$283,341,703

$5,529,389

3.94 %

Interest Bearing Deposits

$751,036,265

$6,151,711

3.29 %

$801,168,767

$7,275,073

3.63 %

$770,321,615

$12,491,754

3.27 %

$785,470,660

$14,221,220

3.65 %

Borrowings

$61,577,333

$592,778

3.86 %

$63,255,808

$724,216

4.59 %

$58,386,523

$1,110,069

3.83 %

$70,756,945

$1,637,370

4.67 %

Interest Bearing Liabilities

$812,613,598

$6,744,490

3.33 %

$864,424,575

$7,999,289

3.71 %

$828,708,138

$13,601,822

3.31 %

$856,227,605

$15,858,590

3.73 %

Non Interest Bearing Deposits

$            137,774,380

$           140,837,354

$      136,504,468

$      167,639,041

Cost of Funds

$            950,387,978

$        6,744,490

2.85 %

$        1,005,261,929

$        7,999,289

3.19 %

$      965,212,607

$      13,601,822

2.84 %

$  1,023,866,646

$      15,858,590

3.12 %

Net Interest Margin

$988,714,479

$6,979,124

2.83 %

$1,044,711,784

$6,876,162

2.64 %

$1,007,283,366

$13,874,512

2.78 %

$1,035,795,054

$14,606,007

2.84 %

Selected Financial Data by Quarter Ended:

(Unaudited)

Balance Sheet Ratios

June 30, 2026

March 31, 2026

December 31, 2025

September 30, 2025

June 30, 2025

Loans held-for-investment to Deposits 

87.29 %

84.04 %

83.41 %

86.72 %

80.83 %

Income Statement Ratios (Quarterly)

Return on Average Assets (ROAA)

0.11 %

0.44 %

-1.37 %

0.42 %

0.29 %

Return on Average Equity (ROAE)

1.38 %

5.57 %

-15.96 %

5.57 %

3.97 %

Efficiency Ratio

89.67 %

81.88 %

71.29 %

77.43 %

77.57 %

Net Interest Margin

2.83 %

2.73 %

2.70 %

2.66 %

2.66 %

Yield on Average Earning Assets

5.57 %

5.44 %

5.55 %

5.72 %

5.73 %

Yield on Securities

4.01 %

3.97 %

4.23 %

4.29 %

4.39 %

Yield on Loans

6.01 %

5.97 %

5.98 %

6.22 %

6.20 %

Cost of Funds

2.85 %

2.84 %

2.99 %

3.19 %

3.19 %

Noninterest income to Total Revenue

19.20 %

16.99 %

14.98 %

17.42 %

16.02 %

Liquidity Ratios

Uninsured Deposits to Total Deposits

24.90 %

27.11 %

29.43 %

24.51 %

22.51 %

Total Liquidity to Uninsured Deposits

118.71 %

117.18 %

130.31 %

136.91 %

167.83 %

Total Liquidity to Unfunded Commitments, CDs and Borrowings maturing in next 30 days

166.82 %

206.16 %

251.78 %

209.14 %

252.65 %

Tangible Common Equity Ratio 

8.20 %

8.00 %

7.91 %

8.45 %

7.85 %

Tangible Common Equity Ratio (adjusted for unrealized losses on HTM securities)

8.01 %

7.82 %

7.76 %

8.27 %

7.64 %

Available -for-Sale securities (as % of total securities)

89.41 %

89.58 %

89.17 %

90.64 %

90.87 %

Per Share Data

Tangible Book Value

$12.20

$12.08

$12.05

$12.45

$12.01

Tangible Book Value (ex AOCI)

$14.29

$14.18

$14.08

$14.58

$14.39

Share Price Data

Closing Price

$12.15

$11.90

$11.83

$11.52

$11.26

Book Value Multiple

100 %

99 %

98 %

93 %

94 %

Common Stock Data

Outstanding Shares at End of Period

6,978,754

6,973,747

6,984,013

7,002,103

7,002,103

Weighted Average shares outstanding, basic

7,098,594

7,104,820

7,136,456

7,134,446

7,137,779

Weighted Average shares outstanding, diluted

7,124,543

7,174,318

7,193,284

7,184,688

7,140,491

Capital Ratios (Bank Only)

Tier 1 Leverage ratio

11.06 %

10.70 %

11.05 %

11.23 %

10.66 %

Common Equity Tier 1 ratio

13.66 %

13.50 %

13.82 %

14.64 %

14.30 %

Tier 1 Risk Based Capital ratio

13.66 %

13.50 %

13.82 %

14.64 %

14.30 %

Total Risk Based Capital ratio

14.63 %

14.42 %

15.08 %

15.53 %

15.20 %

Credit Quality

Net Charge-offs to Average Loans

0.02 %

0.81 %

0.03 %

0.13 %

0.01 %

Total Non-performing Loans to loans held-for-investment

3.32 %

2.46 %

3.51 %

2.30 %

1.45 %

Total Non-performing Assets to Total Assets

2.57 %

1.95 %

2.51 %

1.65 %

0.98 %

Nonaccrual Loans to loans held-for-investment

3.32 %

2.50 %

3.51 %

2.30 %

1.45 %

Provision for Loan Losses

$538,805

$59,336

$6,941,897

$496,824

$688,865

Allowance for Loan Losses to net loans held-for-investment

1.06 %

1.00 %

1.82 %

0.96 %

0.96 %

Allowance for Loan Losses to net loans held-for-investment (ex PPP loans)

1.06 %

1.00 %

1.82 %

0.96 %

0.96 %

FREEDOM FINANCIAL HOLDINGS, INC.

CONSOLIDATED SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA

RECONCILIATION OF GAAP TO NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES

Quarter Ending

 1Net Interest Margin

  June 30, 2026

March 31, 2026

December 31, 2025

September 30, 2025

June 30, 2025

Average Earning Assets

$988,714,478

$             1,026,058,575

$            984,457,489

$          1,005,029,091

$    1,044,711,785

Yield on Interest Earning Assets (GAAP)

5.57 %

5.44 %

5.55 %

5.72 %

5.73 %

Net Interest Margin (NIM) (GAAP)

2.83 %

2.73 %

2.70 %

2.66 %

2.66 %

 2Efficiency Ratio (Non-GAAP)

 

 Quarter Ending

June 30, 2026

March 31, 2026

December 31, 2025

September 30, 2025

June 30, 2025

Net Interest Income

$                 6,979,124

$                      6,895,387

$                 6,696,369

$                   6,748,638

$            6,876,162

Non-Interest Income

1,658,318

1,411,389

$                 1,179,457

1,423,274

1,312,095

Total Revenue

$                 8,637,442

$                      8,306,776

$                 7,875,826

$                   8,171,912

$            8,188,257

Non-Interest Expense

7,744,997

6,801,542

$                 5,614,825

6,327,702

6,351,552

Efficiency Ratio (Non-GAAP)

89.67 %

81.88 %

71.29 %

77.43 %

77.57 %

 3Liquidity Ratios (Non-GAAP)

 

Quarter Ending

June 30, 2026

March 31, 2026

December 31, 2025

September 30, 2025

June 30, 2025

Available-for-Sale Securities (as % of total securities)

89.41 %

89.58 %

89.17 %

90.64 %

90.87 %

Uninsured Deposits to Total Deposits

24.90 %

27.11 %

29.43 %

24.51 %

22.51 %

Total Liquidity to Uninsured Deposits

118.71 %

117.18 %

130.31 %

136.91 %

167.83 %

Total Liquidity to Unfunded Commitments, CDs and Borrowings
maturing in next 30 days

166.82 %

206.16 %

251.78 %

209.14 %

252.65 %

Tangible Common Equity Ratio

8.20 %

8.00 %

7.91 %

8.45 %

7.85 %

Tangible Common Equity Ratio(adjusted for unrealized losses 

8.01 %

7.82 %

7.76 %

8.27 %

7.64 %

on HTM Securities)

4Total Liquidity is the sum of cash, cash balances at banks, unencumbered available-for-sale securities and secured borrowing availability at the Federal Reserve 

and the Federal Reserve Bank

Contact:
Scott Clark
Senior Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer
Phone: 703-667-4119
Email: [email protected] 

SOURCE Freedom Financial Holdings

System supports lithium extraction, sample production, and operating-team training while Company prepares first 1,000 tpa commercial-scale plant

DALLAS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--LibertyStream Infrastructure Partners Inc. (TSXV: LIB | OTCQB: VLTLF | FSE: I2D) (“LibertyStream” or the “Company”) is pleased to announce that it has commissioned its fully automated Gen 6 extraction system at Freedom Launchpad, the Company’s training and customer-sample production platform at its first deployment site.

The process is not being changed for scale-up. The Company expects the commercial-scale design to use the same core process architecture, with larger carousels holding additional extraction modules to support increased throughput.

Share The Gen 6 system is operating as expected and is now supporting lithium extraction and lithium carbonate production at the site. The system is designed around a 5,000 barrel-per-day processing basis and advances LibertyStream’s repeatable template for critical mineral recovery from existing U.S. oil and gas water-handling infrastructure.

Freedom Launchpad is where LibertyStream is producing lithium carbonate, preparing customer samples, training operators, capturing process data, and refining the operating playbook. Freedom 1, located at the same site, is the Company’s first 1,000 tonne-per-annum commercial-scale plant, previously referred to as Facility 1.

“Commissioning the fully automated Gen 6 system is an important execution milestone,” said Alex Wylie, President & CEO of LibertyStream. “We have moved from field learning, manual operation, and customer sample production into an automated system that reflects the architecture we intend to scale. Our focus remains disciplined: produce, qualify, train, build, and deploy.”

Automated Platform, Field-Learned Process

The fully automated Gen 6 system incorporates programmable logic controls and real-time monitoring across key operating variables, including temperature, pressure, flow rates, pH, and conductivity.

The system uses automation to streamline operations, strengthen operating consistency, and capture process data as LibertyStream advances customer samples, product qualification, operating-team training, and Freedom 1 readiness.

This commissioning milestone builds on the Company’s prior Gen 6 field work, which incorporated 21 months of operations, more than 400,000 barrels of processed brine, and over 2,500 operating tests. The Gen 6 configuration also reduced cycle time to approximately 20 minutes, compared with approximately 60 minutes under the Gen 5 configuration.

Over the past several months, LibertyStream’s operations, engineering, and chemistry teams have operated and refined the Gen 6 process while training at Freedom Launchpad. That hands-on operating period was intentional. It allowed the team to develop process familiarity, troubleshoot in real time, and build operating knowledge across the extraction sequence.

The newly commissioned automated Gen 6 system transfers that field experience into a programmable operating platform. The process is not being changed for scale-up. The Company expects the commercial-scale design to use the same core process architecture, with larger carousels holding additional extraction modules to support increased throughput.

From Freedom Launchpad to Freedom 1

LibertyStream has already produced lithium carbonate at its first deployment site, delivered product for customer evaluation, and announced a long-term offtake milestone for 600 tonnes per year of planned lithium carbonate supply beginning in 2027.

The automated Gen 6 system is expected to support continued production, larger-format customer samples, product qualification, performance data capture, operating-team development, and Freedom 1 readiness.

Freedom 1 is being developed as the Company’s first commercial-scale installation under its agreement with Select Water Solutions. As previously disclosed, the Stage 1 facility is designed for 1,000 tonnes per annum of lithium carbonate production and is targeted for commissioning by the end of December 2026.

Visible Progress at Freedom 1

Site preparation for Freedom 1 is advancing.

The Company has cleared and leveled the installation area and is preparing for concrete work to support receipt of commercial-scale equipment expected in late Q3 and early Q4 2026.

This work is part of LibertyStream’s broader execution plan to move from Freedom Launchpad into a repeatable commercial template. The objective is not a single installation. The objective is a scalable model for recovering critical minerals from large water streams already moving through established U.S. energy infrastructure.

Lithium carbonate is LibertyStream’s first product focus. The broader platform is designed around technology-led critical mineral recovery from existing oil and gas water-handling infrastructure. The Company expects to provide further updates as the automated Gen 6 system continues operating and as performance data, customer sample activity, Freedom 1 preparation, and commercial-scale equipment deployment advance.

About LibertyStream Infrastructure Partners

LibertyStream is a lithium development and technology company aiming to be one of North America’s first commercial producers of lithium carbonate from oilfield brine. Our strategy is to generate value for shareholders by leveraging management’s hydrocarbon experience to deploy our proprietary DLE technology directly into existing oil and gas infrastructure, thereby reducing capital costs, lowering risks and supporting the world’s clean energy transition. We are committed to operating efficiently and with transparency across all areas of the business staying sharply focused on creating long-term, sustainable shareholder value. Investors and/or other interested parties may sign up for updates about the Company’s continued progress on its website: https://LibertyStream.com/.

Forward-Looking Information

This news release includes certain “forward-looking statements” and “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws (collectively referred to herein as “forward-looking information”). When used in this news release, the words “anticipate”, “believe”, “estimate”, “expect”, “target”, “plan”, “forecast”, “may”, “will”, “would”, “could”, “schedule” and similar words or expressions, identify forward-looking information. Statements, other than statements of historical fact, may constitute forward-looking information and include, without limitation, the Company’s expectations with respect to finalizing the definitive Offtake Agreement and the consulting agreement and the timing thereof; the anticipated services to be provided in the consulting agreement and the issuance of restricted share units to the consultant; the anticipated benefits of the Offtake Agreement; the Company’s expectations with respect to Facility 1 and the integration of the Company’s platform with existing oilfield water infrastructure; the Company’s expectations with respect to all-in operating costs of a 1,000-tonne-per-annum facility; the Company’s planned commercial configuration for Facility 1; the expectation that Facility 1 will generate standalone positive operating cash flow; the ability of the results from pre-commercial operations to date to create meaningful shareholder value and the Company’s ability to secure long-term commercial contracts; and the benefits of the Company’s proprietary DLE technology including the anticipated reduction of capital costs associated with lithium carbonate extraction from oilfield brine by the use of existing oil and gas infrastructure and the support of clean energy transition efforts caused by the deploy of the Company’s proprietary DLE technology. With respect to the forward-looking information contained in this news release, the Company has made numerous assumptions. While the Company considers these assumptions to be reasonable, these assumptions are inherently subject to significant uncertainties and contingencies and may prove to be incorrect. Additionally, there are known and unknown risk factors which could cause the Company’s actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking information contained herein including the risk that the timing of launching full-scale operations may be delayed or not occur at all; the risk that the Company is not able to secure appropriate partnerships, customers, and offtake agreements, including entering into the definitive Offtake Agreement based on the non-binding term sheet with the Offtake Partner, on terms acceptable to the Company or at all; the risk that the Company cannot achieve full commercial-scale operations on the timeline currently anticipated or at all; the risk that the Company’s anticipated all-in operating costs will be higher than expected; the risk that the assumptions of management in calculating the anticipated all-in operating costs are not complete or may change through the course of the Company’s ongoing business activities; the risk that management’s expectations and assumptions related to generating standalone positive cash flow are not complete or may change through the course of the Company’s ongoing business activities; the risk that the DLE technology cannot be scaled on a commercial basis as currently anticipated by the Company or at all; the risk that the anticipated near-term strategy may not be executed as currently anticipated; and, generally, those known risk factors outlined in the Company’s Management’s Discussion and Analysis for the year ended December 31, 2025, the Company’s Management’s Discussion and Analysis for the three months ended March 31, 2026 and the Company’s annual information form for the year ended December 31, 2024. All forward-looking information herein is qualified in its entirety by this cautionary statement, and the Company disclaims any obligation to revise or update any such forward-looking information or to publicly announce the result of any revisions to any of the forward-looking information contained herein to reflect future results, events or developments, except as required by law.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.

More News From LibertyStream Infrastructure Partners Inc.

New York, United States, June 25, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- S&P Global Ratings has upgraded ratings on several subsidiaries of Freedom Holding Corp., a Nasdaq-listed international investment and technology group. The ratings on Freedom Finance JSC, Freedom Finance Europe Ltd., Freedom Finance Global PLC, and Freedom Bank Kazakhstan JSC were raised to “BB-” with stable outlooks.

S&P also upgraded the long-term Kazakhstan national scale ratings on Freedom Finance JSC and Freedom Bank Kazakhstan JSC to “kzA-.” Earlier, the agency affirmed Kazakhstan’s sovereign credit ratings at “kzAAA” on the national scale and “BBB-” with a positive outlook. Freedom Holding Corp.’s rating remained at “B-” with a stable outlook.

According to S&P, Freedom has shown positive momentum in risk management both within the holding company itself and across the group’s subsidiaries. S&P said this should allow the group to more closely monitor and control risks within its growing business, including sanctions compliance, cybersecurity, reputational, regulatory and cryptocurrency risks.

The agency expects the group to maintain strong capitalization metrics over the next 12–24 months, despite ongoing investments in telecommunications and consumer lifestyle businesses. According to S&P, Freedom’s earnings metrics remain strong, with a three-year average operating profit-to-risk-weighted-assets ratio of approximately 2.2% for the period from March 2024 to March 2026, which remains high in an international context.

S&P also said the development of Freedom’s financial and non-financial businesses is not expected to place significant pressure on Freedom Holding Corp.’s capitalization.

The agency also highlighted Freedom’s position as one of Kazakhstan’s leading digital fintech ecosystems, noting the group’s SuperApp mobile application. Monthly active users of the app stood at approximately 2.6 million in March 2026.

In its rating update, S&P took into account Freedom Holding Corp.’s annual report for fiscal year 2026. The company reported record revenue of $2.19 billion and a twofold increase in net income to $153.3 million. Freedom also significantly expanded its client base across key business segments. The number of users of the bank’s services doubled over the year to 5.03 million, while the brokerage client base grew by 26% to 858,000 clients. In the insurance and other segments, Freedom serves around 2.2 million people. Overall, the client base of the company’s digital ecosystem across all operating markets exceeded 14 million people by the end of fiscal year 2026.

“The expansion of our digital ecosystem beyond our home region, where we built an effective business model in a relatively short period of time, is a key element of our long-term development strategy,” said Timur Turlov, CEO of Freedom Holding Corp. “We are already seeing strong growth in Europe, are close to obtaining banking and brokerage licenses in Turkey, and are actively developing our business in the United States and the Middle East. In Kazakhstan, we have built the experience, expertise and resources needed to compete for global leadership.”

As of May 1, 2026, Freedom’s European brokerage business had reached 453,000 clients. Freedom has also announced plans to expand its banking and digital ecosystem operations in several international markets. In early June, the company said it had applied for a banking license in France and planned to invest €500 million in developing its digital ecosystem there. Freedom also expects to invest $300 million in expanding its Turkish operations and has announced the acquisition of 99.32% of the shares of Turkish Bank. The company’s digital banking subsidiary has been operating in Tajikistan since October 2025, and in November 2025, Kazakhstan’s financial regulator granted Freedom permission to open a bank in Georgia.

About Freedom Holding Corp.

Freedom Holding Corp. provides financial services in 22 countries, including Kazakhstan, the United States, Cyprus, Poland, Spain, Uzbekistan, and Armenia. The Company’s principal executive office is located in New York City. In Kazakhstan, Freedom is actively developing its financial and digital ecosystem, which includes Freedom Bank, Freedom Broker, the insurance companies Freedom Life and Freedom insurance, as well as a lifestyle segment that features Arbuz.kz, Freedom Ticketon, and Aviata. Freedom Holding Corp. shares are traded on the U.S. technology exchange NASDAQ, the Kazakhstan Stock Exchange (KASE), and the Astana International Exchange (AIX) under the ticker symbol FRHC. Freedom Holding Corp. is regulated by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), and the common stock is included in Russell 3000 Index.

S&P Upgrades Ratings on Freedom Holding Corp. Subsidiaries to “BB-”

S&P Upgrades Ratings on Freedom Holding Corp. Subsidiaries to “BB-” S&P Upgrades Ratings on Freedom Holding Corp. Subsidiaries to “BB-”