Core Viewpoint - DSS, Inc. announced a definitive merger agreement with Dr. Ashleys Limited, marking a strategic move to enhance shareholder value and advance its subsidiaries toward public listings [1][2][6]. Strategic Rationale - The merger combines Dr. Ashleys' pharmaceutical capabilities with Impact BioMedical's innovative platform, aiming to accelerate the development of new therapies [3]. Transaction Overview - The merger will involve a reverse merger where Impact will be the surviving entity, and Dr. Ashleys will become a wholly-owned subsidiary of the newly formed public entity, referred to as PubCo [8]. Ownership Structure - The merger agreement includes actions to simplify ownership, such as converting Impact's Series A Preferred Stock and exercising DSS's debt-to-equity rights, resulting in DSS holding 4.80% of the combined company's total outstanding shares at closing [4][5]. Management and Governance - Post-merger, the management team of Dr. Ashleys will operate PubCo, and a new Board of Directors will be assembled by Dr. Ashleys [8]. Approval Process - The transaction requires approval from Impact's shareholders and must satisfy regulatory conditions, including SEC approval for the registration statement [9]. Company Background - DSS, Inc. operates across multiple sectors, including health and wellness, packaging, and blockchain, focusing on developing high-growth subsidiaries and unlocking value through strategic public listings [11].

Core Viewpoint - Hometown Financial Group has announced a definitive merger agreement to acquire CFSB Bancorp and its subsidiary Colonial Federal Savings Bank, enhancing its market presence in eastern Massachusetts and creating a larger banking entity with significant assets and branch locations [1][2][4]. Merger Details - The merger agreement has been unanimously approved by the boards of directors of both companies, with CFSB shareholders set to receive $14.25 in cash per share, valuing the transaction at approximately $44 million [2]. - The merger is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2025, pending regulatory approvals and shareholder consent [2]. Post-Merger Structure - Following the merger, Colonial Federal Savings Bank will merge into North Shore Bank, resulting in a combined bank with $3.3 billion in assets and 29 retail locations across Massachusetts and southern New Hampshire [3]. - Hometown Financial Group will have consolidated assets nearing $6.9 billion and a total of 56 branch offices after the merger [4]. Strategic Goals - The merger aims to enhance customer service and expand market reach, with Hometown Financial Group emphasizing its commitment to local markets and personalized financial solutions [5][6]. - The transaction marks the eighth strategic merger for Hometown Financial Group in the last decade, indicating a consistent growth strategy [7]. Company Background - Hometown Financial Group is a multibank mutual holding company with $6.6 billion in assets, operating several banks including bankESB, bankHometown, and North Shore Bank [13]. - CFSB Bancorp, with total assets of $366 million as of March 31, 2025, has been serving the banking needs of its customers since 1889 [16].