February 2023 - Page 9 of 14

Century Lithium Corp. (CYDVF) – A Watershed Moment?

Posted on February 13, 2023February 13, 2023 by cpereira@noblefcm.com

Monday, February 13, 2023

Mark Reichman, Senior Research Analyst, Natural Resources, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

Refer to the full report for the price target, fundamental analysis, and rating.

Collaboration with Koch. Century Lithium is collaborating with Koch Technology Solutions (KTS) in the application of its proprietary Li-Pro direct lithium extraction process (DLE) at Century’s lithium extraction facility in Nevada.

Li-Pro technology. Koch purchased exclusive rights to theLionex DLE technology, for which Century had licensed, and integrated it into their Li-Pro process. The companies have executed an agreement to test KTS equipment and evaluate features of the Li-Pro process at Century’s pilot plant. While the program is independent from the company’s ongoing feasibility study, KTS will provide an engineering design along with costs for deployment of the DLE portion of the processing plant.

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Flight Plan to Net-Zero Sustainable Aviation Fuels

Posted on February 13, 2023February 13, 2023 by phoffman@channelchek.com

Image Credit: RaymondClarkeImages (Flickr)

The Future of Flight in a Net-Zero Carbon World: 9 Scenarios, Abundant Sustainable Biofuel

Several major airlines have pledged to reach net-zero carbon emissions by midcentury to fight climate change. It’s an ambitious goal that will require an enormous ramp-up in sustainable aviation fuels, but that alone won’t be enough, latest research shows.

The idea of jetliners running solely on fuel made from used cooking oil from restaurants or corn stalks might seem futuristic, but it’s not that far away.

Airlines are already experimenting with sustainable aviation fuels. These include biofuels made from agriculture residues, trees, corn and used cooking oil. Other fuels are synthetic, made by combining captured carbon from the air and green hydrogen, made with renewable energy. Often, they can go straight into existing aircraft fuel tanks that normally hold fossil jet fuel.

United Airlines, which has been using a blend of used oil or waste fat and fossil fuels on some flights from Los Angeles and Amsterdam, announced in February 2023 that it had formed a partnership with biofuel companies to power 50,000 flights a year between its Chicago and Denver hubs using ethanol-based sustainable aviation fuels by 2028.

This article was republished with permission from The Conversation, a news site dedicated to sharing ideas from academic experts. It represents the research-based findings and thoughts of, Candelaria Bergero, Ph.D. Student in Earth System Science, University of California, Irvine, Steve Davis Professor of Earth System Science, University of California, Irvine.

In a new study, we examined different options for aviation to reach net-zero emissions and assessed how air travel could continue without contributing to climate change.

The bottom line: Each pathway has important trade-offs and hurdles. Replacing fossil jet fuel with sustainable aviation fuels will be crucial, but the industry will still need to invest in direct-air carbon capture and storage to offset emissions that can’t be cut.

Scenarios for the Future

Before the pandemic, in 2019, aviation accounted for about 3.1% of total global CO₂ emissions from fossil fuel combustion, and the number of passenger miles traveled each year was rising. If aviation emissions were a country, that would make it the sixth-largest emitter, closely following Japan.

In addition to releasing carbon emissions, burning jet fuel produces soot and water vapor, known as contrails, that contribute to warming, and these are not avoided by switching to sustainable aviation fuels

Aviation is also one of the hardest-to-decarbonize sectors of the economy. Small electric and hydrogen-powered planes are being developed, but long-haul flights with lots of passengers are likely decades away.

We developed and analyzed nine scenarios spanning a range of projected passenger and freight demand, energy intensity and carbon intensity of aviation to explore how the industry might get to net-zero emissions by 2050.

Nine scenarios illustrate how much carbon offsets would be required to reach net-zero emissions, depending on choices made about demand and energy and carbon intensity. Each starts with 2021’s emissions (1.2 gigatons of carbon dioxide equivalent). With rising demand and no improvement in carbon intensity, a large amount of carbon capture will be necessary. Less fossil fuel use and slower demand growth reduce offset needs. Candelaria Bergero

We found that as much as 19.8 exajoules of sustainable aviation fuels could be needed for the entire sector to reach net-zero CO₂ emissions. With other efficiency improvements, that could be reduced to as little as 3 exajoules. To put that into context, 3 exajoules is almost equivalent to all biofuels produced in 2019 and far surpasses the 0.005 exajoules of bio-based jet fuel produced in 2019. An exajoule is a measure of energy.

Flying less and improving airplanes’ energy efficiency, such as using more efficient “glide” landings that allow airlines to approach the airport with engines at near idle, can help reduce the amount of fuel needed. But even in our rosiest scenarios – where demand grows at 1% per year, compared to the historical average of 4% per year, and energy efficiency improves by 4% per year rather than 1% – aviation would still need about 3 exajoules of sustainable aviation fuels.

Why Offsets are Still Necessary

A rapid expansion in biofuel sustainable aviation fuels is easier said than done. It could require as much as 1.2 million square miles (300 million hectares) of dedicated land to grow crops to turn into fuel – roughly 19% of global cropland today.

Another challenge is cost. The global average price of fossil jet fuel is about about US$3 per gallon ($0.80 per liter), while the cost to produce bio-based jet fuels is often twice as much. The cheapest, HEFA, which uses fats, oils and greases, ranges in cost from $2.95 to $8.67 per gallon ($0.78 to $2.29 per liter), but it depends on the availability of waste oil.

Fischer-Tropsch biofuels, produced by a chemical reaction that converts carbon monoxide and hydrogen into liquid hydrocarbons, range from $3.79 to $8.71 per gallon ($1 to $2.30 per liter). And synthetic fuels are from $4.92 to $17.79 per gallon ($1.30 to $4.70 per liter).

Realistically, reaching net-zero emissions will likely also rely on carbon dioxide removal.

In a future with similar airline use as today, as much as 3.4 gigatons of carbon dioxide would have to be captured from the air and locked away – pumped underground, for example – for aviation to reach net-zero. That could cost trillions of dollars.

For these offsets to be effective, the carbon removal would also have to follow a robust eligibility criteria and be effectively permanent. This is not happening today in airline offsetting programs, where airlines are mostly buying cheap, nonpermanent offsets, such as those involving forest conservation and management projects.

Some caveats apply to our findings, which could increase the need for offsets even more.

Our assessment assumes sustainable aviation fuels to be net-zero carbon emissions. However, the feedstocks for these fuels currently have life-cycle emissions, including from fertilizer, farming and transportation. The American Society for Testing Materials also currently has a maximum blend limit: up to 50% sustainable fuels can be blended into conventional jet fuel for aviation in the U.S., though airlines have been testing 100% blends in Europe.

How to Overcome the Final Hurdles

To meet the climate goals the world has set, emissions in all sectors must decrease – including aviation.

While reductions in demand would help reduce reliance on sustainable aviation fuels, it’s more likely that more and more people will fly in the future, as more people become wealthier. Efficiency improvements will help decrease the amount of energy needed to power aviation, but it won’t eliminate it.

Scaling up sustainable aviation fuel production could decrease its costs. Quotas, such as those introduced in the European Union’s “Fit for 55” plan, subsidies and tax credits, like those in the U.S. Inflation Reduction Act signed in 2022, and a carbon tax or other price on carbon, can all help achieve this.

Additionally, given the role that capturing carbon from the atmosphere will play in achieving net-zero emissions, a more robust accounting system is needed internationally to ensure that the offsets are compensating for aviation’s non-CO₂ impacts. If these hurdles are overcome, the aviation sector could achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.

Investors in Sports Betting May Prove to be the Real Superbowl Winners

Posted on February 13, 2023February 13, 2023 by phoffman@channelchek.com

The Lucky Stars Seem to Have Aligned for Online Gambling Companies

Public companies involved in sports betting may find their shareholders are the real winners. Between the increased number of states that have legalized sports betting over recent years, the enhanced betting opportunities, and the nature of the Superbowl win, luck seems to have weighed heavily on the side of these businesses. It will take time for the actual numbers to be reported. Just last year FanDuel became the first sportsbook to be profitable, it will report again in March. DraftKings, BetMGM, and Caesars, have yet to turn a profit in sports betting.

Superbowl Win Favors Companies

Close to 60% of bets were for the Philadelphia Eagles to be the outright winner of the game, according to FanDuel. FanDuel is the largest online sportsbook operator in the U.S. The less-expected 38-35 win for the Kansas City Chiefs over the Philadelphia Eagles at the Super Bowl will mean less wagered money will have to be distributed to customers. The team that was considered the underdog, having come out ahead, should add revenue to the bottom line of gambling companies.

The reason, of course, is companies like DraftKings and FanDuel will not have to pay out on many of the most popular bets, including widespread predictions for a 37-34 victory for the Eagles after online speculation over a ‘leaked script’ for the game.

Other Popular Bets

Before Sunday’s kick-off, Twitter and other social media conversations referred to the “leaked script.” An image was being shared that showed the Eagles winning 37-34. The image had millions of impressions on Twitter across all the shares.

Various Twitter Posts Highlighted this Image Pre-Game

Bettors could also wager on who may come out as the most valuable player. The Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce was the most selected based on bets for this honor, according to FanDuel. Instead, the MVP award was won by Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes.

During a heavy betting period, there was an issue with Caesars Entertainment subsidiary William Hill US. This issue was affecting users in Nevada by preventing them from logging in on Sunday. Frustrated users took to social media outlets to complain of their difficulties during the game. The company tweeted that it was still in the process of settling all Super Bowl wagers after the game on Sunday.

Take Away

Online sports gambling is experiencing dramatic growth. Each year more states allow the practice within their borders. At the same time, technology allows betting on slices of the game, even on in-play situations never before available. With both FanDuel and DraftKings advertising to the large Superbowl audience, the practice of gambling online on sports is becoming more and more understood and common place. The 2023 Superbowl may have helped the bottom line of these companies. That will be seen when the numbers for this quarter are released. Investors are paying attention as it would seem that there is plenty of room for further growth.

Paul Hoffman

Managing Editor, Channelchek

The Week Ahead – Inflation (CPI), Jobs, and 13-f Holdings Reports

Posted on February 12, 2023February 12, 2023 by phoffman@channelchek.com

Will the Inflation Numbers on Valentine’s Cause the Market to See Red?

As earnings season fades investors that like to get a glimpse into the portfolios of successful money managers will look for the 13-f filings of some of the most followed investors as they are made available. Tuesday and Wednesday should bring Michael Burry’s and Warren Buffet’s filing. The CPI report on Tuesday is expected to show a continuation of inflation tapering. The Jobs report on Thursdays has been missing consensus, it has the potential to either calm or rattle the markets.

Monday 2/13

With no consequential economic releases, market direction may take its tone from traders positioning ahead of Tuesday’s CPI report.

Tuesday 2/14

8:30 AM ET, January’s headline CPI rate is expected to increase month to month by 0.5% after a .1% decline experienced in December, and year-over-year at 6.2% versus 6.5% the prior 12 months. Ex-food and energy (core rate) is expected to show unchanged at a 5.5% annual rate versus 5.7% the prior 12 months.
In previous years Michael Burry has made a public filing of Scion Asset Managements 13-f holdings on Valentine’s Day. Warren Buffet of Berkshire Hathaway will make available his changed positions. This filing is also likely on Tuesday or perhaps Wednesday.

Wednesday 2/15

9:15 AM ET, Industrial Production, which includes data for Manufacturing and Capacity Utilization has been contracting. January’s consensus estimates are for monthly gains of 0.5% for production and 0.4% for manufacturing and would be a welcome sign for those fearing a recession. The positive direction would be welcome after December’s monthly decline of 0.7% overall and 1.3% for manufacturing. Capacity utilization is expected to remain at a non-inflationary 78.8%.
10:00 AM ET, Business Inventories data for December are expected to rise 0.3% following a 0.4% expansion in November. Intentional inventory growth can be a sign of business optimism surrounding future sales. If unintended inventory accumulation occurs, then production will probably be throttled back as inventories are worked down. This is why Business Inventories a leading economic indicator.

10:00 AM ET, The Housing Market Index fell each month in 2022. The weak streak ended in January, as it rose 4 points to 35. February’s consensus is a further but smaller 1-point improvement to 36. The Housing Index is a monthly composite that tracks home builder assessments of present and future sales along with buyer traffic
10:00 AM ET, Atlanta Fed Business Inflation Expectations survey provides a monthly measure of year-ahead inflation expectations and inflation uncertainty from the perspective of firms. The survey also provides a monthly gauge of firms’ current sales, profit margins, and unit cost changes. The year over year estimate is for 3%.

Thursday 2/16

8:30 AM ET, Jobless Claims, including Initial Claims and Continuing Claims, have been a big focus of the market as unemployment is running at a historically low pace. The consensus is for growth in Jobless levels to 199,000 versus 196,000 the prior week. Overall low claims would seem to be good news for the economy. The problem now is that it is worrisome for a Fed that views current inflationary pressures, including wage pressures unacceptably high.

Friday 2/17

8:30 AM ET, The Index of Leading Indicators has been in steep decline; it is expected to fall further, but less steeply, by 0.3 percent in January versus a fall of 0.8% in December.

What Else

Investors with interest in telecommunications company Comtech (CMTL) and located in South Florida, may be able to attend one of four special presentations by management on Monday or Tuesday. Get information here to see if this is suited for you.

Monday, February 20^th, is a holiday, and the US markets will be closed.

Paul Hoffman

Managing Editor, Channelchek

Sources

https://www.thearmchairtrader.com/macroeconomic-news-6feb23/

https://us.econoday.com/byweek.asp?cust=us

Release – Axcella Therapeutics to Participate in the SVB Securities’ 2023 Global Biopharma Conference

Posted on February 10, 2023February 10, 2023 by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

Research News and Market Data on AXLA

February 9, 2023 at 4:45 PM EST

CAMBRIDGE, Mass.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Feb. 9, 2023– Axcella Therapeutics (Nasdaq: AXLA), a clinical-stage biotechnology company pioneering a new approach to treat complex diseases using multi-targeted endogenous metabolic modulator (EMM) compositions, today announced that CEO Bill Hinshaw will present a company update at SVB Securities’ 2023 Global Biopharma Conference, taking place virtually February 14-16, 2023.

Details for Axcella’s participation are as follows:

Date:		Thursday, February 16, 2023
Time:		11:20 am Eastern Time
Webcast:		https://wsw.com/webcast/svb8/axla/1608786

The conference call webcast will be accessible in the Investors & News section on the company’s website at www.axcellatx.com. An archive of the webcast replay will be available on the Company’s website for up to 90 days.

Internet Posting of Information
Axcella uses the “Investors and News” section of its website, www.axcellatx.com, as a means of disclosing material nonpublic information, to communicate with investors and the public, and for complying with its disclosure obligations under Regulation FD. Such disclosures include, but may not be limited to, investor presentations and FAQs, Securities and Exchange Commission filings, press releases, and public conference calls and webcasts. The information that we post on our website could be deemed to be material information. As a result, we encourage investors, the media and others interested to review the information that we post there on a regular basis. The contents of our website shall not be deemed incorporated by reference in any filing under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.

About Axcella Therapeutics (Nasdaq: AXLA)
Axcella is a clinical-stage biotechnology company pioneering a new approach to treat complex diseases using compositions of endogenous metabolic modulators (EMMs). The company’s product candidates are comprised of EMMs and derivatives that are engineered in distinct combinations and ratios to reset multiple biological pathways, improve cellular energetics, and restore homeostasis. Axcella’s pipeline includes lead therapeutic candidates for the treatment of Long COVID, NASH, and the reduction in risk of OHE recurrence. The company’s unique model allows for the evaluation of its EMM compositions through non-IND clinical studies or IND clinical trials. For more information, please visit www.axcellatx.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230209005760/en/

Company
ir@axcellatx.com

Source: Axcella Therapeutics

ChitogenX Inc. (CHNXF) – Offering Announced; Increasing Price Target

Posted on February 10, 2023February 10, 2023 by cpereira@noblefcm.com

Friday, February 10, 2023

Gregory Aurand, Senior Research Analyst, Healthcare Services & Medical Devices, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

Refer to the full report for the price target, fundamental analysis, and rating.

Raising up to $6.1 million gross proceeds. Yesterday, ChitogenX announced a two-part equity placement. The first is a best efforts private placement for up to $4.35 million (currencies in Canadian $) gross proceeds, subject to a $3 million minimum, under a financing prospectus exemption in Part 5A of the Canadian National Instrument 45-106 – Prospectus Exemptions. Second is a non-brokered private placement of up to $1.75 million gross proceeds. The closing of the first offering is conditional upon the closing of the second private placement. The offerings are expected to close on or around February 28, 2023.

Offering terms. Each of the two offerings carry the same terms priced at $0.225 per unit. Each unit consists of one Class A share of common and one purchase warrant exercisable at $0.35 with a 5 year expiration. If the volume weighted daily average trading price exceeds $0.50 for 10 consecutive trading days, ChitogenX can accelerate the expiration date. ChitogenX expects to use the net proceeds to complete enrollment of the Rotator Cuff U.S. Phase I/II clinical trial program, and for working capital and general corporate purposes.

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This Company Sponsored Research is provided by Noble Capital Markets, Inc., a FINRA and S.E.C. registered broker-dealer (B/D).

One Stop Systems (OSS) – A Changing of the Guard; CEO Raun to Step Down

Posted on February 10, 2023February 10, 2023 by cpereira@noblefcm.com

Friday, February 10, 2023

One Stop Systems, Inc. (OSS) designs and manufactures innovative AI Transportable edge computing modules and systems, including ruggedized servers, compute accelerators, expansion systems, flash storage arrays, and Ion Accelerator™ SAN, NAS, and data recording software for AI workflows. These products are used for AI data set capture, training, and large-scale inference in the defense, oil and gas, mining, autonomous vehicles, and rugged entertainment applications. OSS utilizes the power of PCI Express, the latest GPU accelerators and NVMe storage to build award-winning systems, including many industry firsts, for industrial OEMs and government customers. The company enables AI on the Fly® by bringing AI datacenter performance to ‘the edge,’ especially on mobile platforms, and by addressing the entire AI workflow, from high-speed data acquisition to deep learning, training, and inference. OSS products are available directly or through global distributors. For more information, go to www.onestopsystems.com.

Joe Gomes, Managing Director – Generalist Analyst, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

Joshua Zoepfel, Research Associate, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

Refer to the full report for the price target, fundamental analysis, and rating.

Passing the Torch. In an unexpected move, yesterday the CEO of One Stop Systems, David Raun, announced he is stepping down from the position effective upon the appointment of his successor. We had spoken with Mr. Raun earlier this week about the 2023 vision and he came across as extremely enthusiastic with OSS’s opportunity set, especially related to the defense industry. The company has yet to identify a successor but has retained a search firm to help the Company find a suitable replacement. Notably, Mr. Raun will continue to serve as a member of the company’s Board of Directors.

Defense Experience Valued. Mr. Raun’s decision to step aside appears related to a desire to bring in a CEO with a background in the defense industry, as the near term opportunity set for OSS is in this space. As mentioned in the release, Mr. Raun stated, “I feel it’s time to bring in new leadership with deep experience and high-level contacts in the defense sector to scale the opportunities and growth.”

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This Company Sponsored Research is provided by Noble Capital Markets, Inc., a FINRA and S.E.C. registered broker-dealer (B/D).

DLH Holdings (DLHC) – Post Call Commentary and Updated Models

Posted on February 10, 2023February 10, 2023 by cpereira@noblefcm.com

Friday, February 10, 2023

DLH delivers improved health and readiness solutions for federal programs through research, development, and innovative care processes. The Company’s experts in public health, performance evaluation, and health operations solve the complex problems faced by civilian and military customers alike, leveraging digital transformation, artificial intelligence, advanced analytics, cloud-based applications, telehealth systems, and more. With over 2,300 employees dedicated to the idea that “Your Mission is Our Passion,” DLH brings a unique combination of government sector experience, proven methodology, and unwavering commitment to public health to improve the lives of millions. For more information, visit www.DLHcorp.com.

Joe Gomes, Managing Director – Generalist Analyst, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

Joshua Zoepfel, Research Associate, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

Refer to the full report for the price target, fundamental analysis, and rating.

A Stronger DLH. The addition of GRSi is a transformative event, in our opinion, creating a more differentiated and powerful Company, with a combined nearly $1 billion of backlog and a new business pipeline that provides significant future growth opportunities. With favorable end markets, DLH is in the right place, at the right time, with the right solutions, in our view.

Strong Growth in Key Programs. DLH saw excellent growth in its key VA and HHS programs. VA pharmacy revenue rose 23% y-o-y to $19.2 million, VA logistics services revenue jumped 15% to $14.5 million, and HHS Head Start revenue increased 34% to $9.1 million, as services offered under this program returned to a more normal pre-COVID level.

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This Company Sponsored Research is provided by Noble Capital Markets, Inc., a FINRA and S.E.C. registered broker-dealer (B/D).

About the Quickening Growth Spiral in Revenue of Pro Football

Posted on February 10, 2023February 10, 2023 by phoffman@channelchek.com

The Business of Football, How the NFL Makes Money

There’s a lot of money being made through the business of professional sports leagues. The NBA, MLB, NHL, all have very profitable business models, and although the businesses are all similar, the NFL leads the other U.S. based leagues in generating revenue. The once tax-exempt entity has a dual business structure with multiple layers of income that continues to expand. Below we cover the multiple ways the NFL, and the months-long drive of more than 30 teams to the Superbowl, ring the register.

In 2015, the National Football League forfeited its tax-exempt status with the IRS. The league had benefitted from the unique status beginning in 1942. The decision was based in part on mounting criticism over its rapidly growing earnings streams.

These streams largely come from the 32 teams that make up the NFL, thirty-one of the ball clubs are privately owned, while just one, the Green Bay Packers, continues to operate under a non-profit public corporation status. The clubs all form a trade association through which funds are directed back to the NFL board, some find their way distributed back to the teams.

This form of entertainment rakes in money on many fronts. In-person attendance, TV viewers, different forms of wagering, and advertising dollars all feed into overall league revenue after costs such as salaries that can $50 million annually.

Tickets to the Super Bowl 2023 event between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Philadelphia Eagles are averaging about $10,000. The higher end seats are in the $40,000 range, about the same as a Tesla Model S.

Tax Exemption of Teams

The team with tax-exempt status is exempt from paying all or some of federal income taxes. This status had been maintained by all NFL teams from 1945 through 2015.

The NFL voluntarily opted to give up its tax-exempt status in 2015 and began paying taxes. Some contend this change avoids further negative public outcry. It seems the economic benefits were not as significant as the public relations disadvantages.

Business Structure

The league separates its income streams into local and national categories. On the national side, the NFL negotiates national merchandise, licensing, and television contracts. The 32 teams receive equal shares of this money, regardless of individual team performance.

Local income is generated through concession sales, ticket sales, and corporate sponsors. This doesn’t nearly cover the cost of fielding a professional football team. Using the Green Bay Packers as a benchmark, the team had expenses totaling $410 million in its fiscal year 2021. Most of this number was attributable to player salaries, with the remainder used for stadium maintenance, advertising, and team and administration expenses.

How Teams Make Money

The majority of any NFL team’s revenue comes from TV arrangements. Ticket revenues, licensing, merchandising agreements, and endorsement deals are additional income sources.

Revenue of All National Football League Teams from 2001 to 2021 (in billion U.S. dollars)

Televised Rights and Deals – The Super Bowl is among the most watched television events in America each year. The regular games broadcast on Sundays, Mondays, and Thursdays throughout the regular season will consistently have the best TV ratings. This is why media corporations pay an above average amount for the right to broadcast them.

The traditional television industry now competes with other video-based programming, all pulling the attention of those seeking entertainment. The NFL audience and draw are not in decline. NFL teams still generate massive local and even international revenue through TV contracts. The individual clubs receive significant amounts from television providers thanks to multibillion-dollar contracts, and there are even more television viewers and broadcasts of games than other programs on set.

Tickets and Vendor Rental – Far below the rapidly increasing money from TV deals, ticket sales are a large source of income for individual teams. NFL games often sell out, with an estimated average ticket price of $151 and a stadium capacity of roughly 70,000. It’s a nice add-on to broadcast viewership.

NFL teams can also use their stadiums to hold non-football activities, like concerts within local restrictions.

The cash flow on the rental of space to vendors to sell food and drinks at games are also significant in a stadium with 70,000 fans as a captive audience.

Official Sponsorships – Corporate sponsors pay NFL teams to put their logos on products, TV transitions, player jerseys, etc. The franchise rights to NFL grounds naming of stadiums are extremely desirable among corporate advertisers.

The naming right to So-Fi Stadium in LA, home of the Los Angeles Rams, is in the neighborhood of $30 million annually, and similar rights to Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas is estimated at between $20 and $25 million annually.

Gambling Franchises – Some NFL teams take advantage of this method by opening betting platforms in their stadiums, collaborating with well-known casinos, creating online sports betting websites, and other strategies. This is an area of rapid expansion as sports betting becomes legalized across the US and technology provides opportunities for betting on fragments of the game in addition to the more traditional methods. Incremental income from these growing arrangements has expanded income opportunities among teams.

Costs

Overall, like any business, the NFL will undoubtedly explore all the opportunities for meaningful income that present itself. Of course the overall income is best measured net of expenditures that include marketing, cost of athletes and other entertainers, management, upkeep, and renovations.

Take Away

One of the most financially successful professional sports leagues in the US and across the globe is the NFL. Most of the teams’ revenues are generated from broadcasting and licensing deals. The growth in revenue, with the exception of one year during the pandemic curbs, has been accelerating. Technology has brought new methods to gamble on sports, along with some friendly gaming legislation across the nation. This is additive to the bottom line.

It appears that the trend, which has survived some public relations setbacks, isn’t going to continue as Americans tend to spend many hours during the winter months immersed in the sport of football.

Paul Hoffman

Managing Editor, Channelchek

Why Global Gold Demand Could Stay High

Posted on February 10, 2023February 10, 2023 by phoffman@channelchek.com

Central Banks Gobbled Up More Gold Last Year Than In Any Year Since 1967

The price of gold stopped just short of hitting $1,960 an ounce last Thursday, its highest level since April 2022, before plunging below $1,900 on Friday following a stronger-than-expected U.S. jobs report, indicating that the current rate hike cycle may be far from over.

I don’t believe that this takes away from the fact that gold posted its best start to the year since 2015. The yellow metal rose 5.72% in January, compared to 8.39% in the same month eight years ago.

This article was republished with permission from Frank Talk, a CEO Blog by Frank Holmes
of U.S. Global Investors (GROW).
Find more of Frank’s articles here – Originally published February 8, 2023.

I also maintain my bullishness for gold and gold mining stocks in 2023. Gold was one of the very few bright spots in a dismal 2022, ending the year essentially flat, and I expect its performance to remain strong in the year ahead.

Record Retail Demand In 2022

The big headline in the World Gold Council’s (WGC) 2022 review is that total global demand expanded 18% year-over-year, reaching its highest level since 2011.

Central banks were responsible for much of the growth, adding a massive 1,136 metric tons, the largest annual amount since 1967. China began accumulating again in 2022 for the first time in three years, continuing its goal of diversifying away from the dollar.

Meanwhile, retail demand for bars and coins in the U.S. and Europe hit a new annual record last year in response to stubbornly high inflation and the war in Ukraine. Western investors gobbled up 427 tons (approximately 15 million ounces), the most since 2011.

Investors To Shift From Physical Bullion To Gold-Backed ETFs In 2023?

Where I see the opportunity is with gold-backed ETFs and gold mining stocks, both of which didn’t see the same level of demand as the bullion market last year. Investors withdrew some 110 tons from physical gold ETFs, the second straight year of declines, though at a slower pace compared to 2021. Even when the gold price began to climb in November, investors didn’t seem to respond as they have in past rallies.

The WGC suggests that demand for ETFs that hold physical gold will “take the baton” from bars and coins this year. That remains to be seen, but I always recommend that investors diversify, with 5% of their portfolio in bullion, gold jewelry and gold-backed ETFs.

Another 5% can be allocated to high-quality gold mining stocks, mutual funds and ETFs. We prefer companies that have demonstrated strong momentum in revenue, free cash flow and high-growth margins on a per-share basis.

$1 Trillion Investment In The Energy Transition, On Par With Fossil Fuels

If I had to select another metal to watch this year (and beyond), it would be copper. The red metal, we believe, will be one of the greatest beneficiaries of the global low-carbon energy transition that’s taking place. As we seek to electrify everything, from power generation to transportation, copper is the one material that’s used every step of the way.

What’s more, investment in the transition is accelerating. Last year, more than $1 trillion was plowed into new technologies such as renewable energy, energy storage, carbon capture and storage, electrified transport and more.

Not only is this a new annual record amount, but, for the first time ever, it matches what we invested in fossil fuels, according to Bloomberg New Energy Finance (NEF).

China was the top investor, responsible for $546 billion, or nearly half of the total amount. The U.S. was a distant second at $141 billion, though the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), signed into law in August 2022, has yet to be fully deployed.

Copper’s Supply-Demand Imbalance

At the same time that copper demand is growing due to the energy transition, the global supply pipeline is thinning due to shrinking exploration budgets and a dramatic slowdown in the number of new deposits.

Take a look at the chart above, courtesy of S&P Global. Copper exploration budgets have not managed to generate a meaningful increase in major new discoveries. According to S&P Global, most of the copper that’s produced every year comes from assets that were discovered in the 1990s.

It may be a good time to consider getting exposure with a high-quality copper miner such as Ivanhoe Mines or a broad-based commodities fund that gives you access to copper exploration and production.

Release – Century Lithium and Koch Technology Solutions Collaborate on Li-Pro™ Process for Commercial Direct Lithium Extraction

Posted on February 9, 2023February 9, 2023 by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

Research News and Market Data on CYDVF

February 9, 2023 – Vancouver, Canada – Century Lithium Corp. (TSXV: LCE) (OTCQX: CYDVF) (Frankfurt: C1Z) (“Century Lithium”) is pleased to announce its collaboration with Koch Technology Solutions (“KTS”), a Koch Engineered Solutions (“KES”) company, in the application of the Li-Pro™ process for direct lithium extraction (“DLE”) at Century Lithium’s Lithium Extraction Facility (“Pilot Plant”) in Amargosa Valley, Nevada, USA.

“Century Lithium’s collaboration with KTS and KES has been productive, and we look forward to working together as we broaden our relationship,” said Bill Willoughby, President & CEO of Century Lithium. “Our DLE process in the Pilot Plant is performing very well and we are excited to work with Koch as we advance the Project.”

In March 2022, Century Lithium purchased a license to the Lionex DLE process (“Lionex”) and KTS subsequently acquired exclusive rights to the Lionex technology, which has been integrated into KTS’ Li-Pro™ process. Through an agreement completed February 6, 2023, the companies will work together to evaluate the added features of the Li-Pro™ process at Century Lithium’s Pilot Plant. With the information obtained, KTS will provide engineering for a full-scale deployment of the Li-Pro™ process for Century Lithium’s Clayton Valley Lithium Project (“Project”) located in Esmeralda County, in west-central Nevada.

“Century Lithium has done a great job identifying and validating a world-class lithium resource,” said Adam Sackett, President of Koch Technology Solutions. “As the energy transformation accelerates, we are excited to collaborate with them on the path to commercializing Li-Pro™ technology with our expanding set of complementary capabilities.”

As part of the program, certain key components of the Li-Pro™ process will be tested at Century Lithium’s Pilot Plant. KTS will also provide engineering design and costs for the full-scale DLE portion of the processing plant for Century Lithium’s Project. This program is independent from the Project’s ongoing Feasibility Study and will begin upon delivery of KTS equipment to the Pilot Plant. Century Lithium will fund the study, installation, and operation of the equipment at the Pilot Plant, and KTS will provide training and technical support.

About Koch Technology Solutions

Koch Technology Solutions (KTS) is the technology licensing business of Koch Engineered Solutions (KES). KTS creates value for its customers across a growing portfolio of technologies including direct lithium extraction, the polyester value chain, refining industry and 1,4-Butanediol plus its derivatives. KTS combines its exclusive technologies, expertise, and capabilities with those of other KES companies to provide overall solutions to optimize customers’ capital investments and existing manufacturing assets.

About Century Lithium Corp.

Century Lithium Corp. is a Canadian based advanced stage lithium company, focused on developing its 100%-owned Clayton Valley Lithium Project in west-central Nevada, USA. Century Lithium is currently in the pilot stage of testing on material from its lithium-bearing claystone deposit at its Lithium Extraction Facility in Amargosa Valley, Nevada and progressing towards completing a Feasibility Study and permitting, with the goal of becoming a domestic producer of lithium for the growing electric vehicle and battery storage market.

ON BEHALF OF CENTURY LITHIUM CORP.
WILLIAM WILLOUGHBY, PhD., PE
President & Chief Executive Officer

For further information, please contact:
Spiros Cacos | Vice President, Investor Relations
Direct: +1 604 764 1851
Toll Free: 1 800 567 8181
scacos@centurylithium.com
centurylithium.com

NEITHER THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THE CONTENT OF THIS NEWS RELEASE.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This release includes certain statements that may be deemed to be “forward-looking statements”. Forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions and are identified by words such as “expects,” “estimates,” “projects,” “anticipates,” “believes,” “could,” “scheduled,” and other similar words. All statements in this release, other than statements of historical facts, that address events or developments that management of the Company expects, are forward-looking statements. Although management believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance, and actual results or developments may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. The Company undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements if management’s beliefs, estimates or opinions, or other factors, should change. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements, include market prices, exploration, and development successes, continued availability of capital and financing, and general economic, market or business conditions. Please see the public filings of the Company at www.sedar.com for further information.

Release – Tonix Pharmaceuticals Announces Publication of Paper in Viruses Highlighting the Company’s Development of a Vaccine to Protect Against Monkeypox and Smallpox (TNX-801)

Posted on February 9, 2023February 9, 2023 by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

Research News and Market Data on TNXP

February 09, 2023 7:00am EST

Preclinical data demonstrate the efficacy of TNX‐801 vaccination against monkeypox virus challenge in an animal model

Phase 1 trial with TNX-801 for the prevention of monkeypox and smallpox is expected to start in the second half of 2023

CHATHAM, N.J, Feb. 09, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Tonix Pharmaceuticals Holding Corp. (Nasdaq: TNXP) (Tonix or the Company), a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company, today announced the publication of a paper entitled, “Single Dose of Recombinant Chimeric Horsepox Virus (TNX‐801) Vaccination Protects Macaques from Lethal Monkeypox Challenge,” in the journal Viruses. The publication demonstrates that a single dose vaccination with TNX‐801 was effective at protecting non-human primates from infection with monkeypox virus. The article can be accessed online at https://www.mdpi.com/1999-4915/15/2/356.

“The global monkeypox outbreak that started in the spring of 2022 reinforced the importance of protecting the population using live virus vaccines,” said Seth Lederman, M.D., Chief Executive Officer of Tonix Pharmaceuticals. “Consequently, there is a need for an effective and safer, single dose, live replicating vaccine against monkeypox virus. Given the encouraging preclinical data to date, one potential approach is to use a live virus vaccine based on horsepox, such as TNX-801.”

David Evans, Ph.D., FCAHS, Professor and former Vice-Dean (Research) Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry at the University of Alberta and an investigator in the study and author of the publication, said, “It is often forgotten that vaccines don’t always produce sterilizing immunity and so it’s very exciting to be able to report that a horsepox-based vaccine works so well in such a challenging infection model.”

The publication describes data from animals in which eight out of eight vaccinated with TNX-801 were fully protected with sterilizing immunity from a challenge with intra-tracheal monkeypox (central African, or Congo Basin, clade). The vaccinations with TNX-801 were well tolerated as indicated by the lack of any overt clinical disease. These data show that the immunity generated by TNX‐801 was able to provide protection against a lethal challenge with monkeypox virus and is the first study to demonstrate the efficacy of TNX‐801 vaccination against monkeypox virus challenge in a non‐human primate model. Synthetic horsepox virus is the basis for the Company’s TNX-801 vaccine in development to protect against monkeypox and smallpox and for the Company’s Recombinant Pox Virus (RPV) platform to protect against other pathogens, including SARS-CoV-2.

About TNX-801 and TNX-1850

TNX-801 is a live virus vaccine based on horsepox^2,3. Tonix is developing TNX-801 for percutaneous administration as a vaccine to protect against monkeypox and smallpox. Tonix is also developing TNX-1850 (horsepox-based live virus vaccine) for the prevention of COVID-19. TNX-1850 is designed to express the spike protein from the BA.2 variant of SARS-CoV-2. Tonix has previously reported positive data from a SARS-CoV-2 challenge study in non-human primates in which animals were vaccinated with TNX-1800, a horsepox-based vaccine expressing spike protein from the Wuhan strain⁴. Tonix’s TNX-801 is based on the sequence of the 1976 natural isolate Mongolian horsepox clone MNR-763.² Molecular analysis of DNA sequences suggests that TNX-801 is closer than modern smallpox vaccines to the vaccine discovered and disseminated by Dr. Edward Jenner in 1798^5-7. For example, recent studies^8,9 have shown approximately 99.7% colinear identity between TNX-801 and the circa 1860 U.S. smallpox vaccine VK05.¹⁰ The small plaque size in culture of TNX-801 appears identical to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control publication of the natural isolate¹¹. Relative to vaccinia, horsepox has substantially decreased virulence in mice². Dr. Edward Jenner invented vaccination in 1798 and the procedure was called “vaccination” because ‘cow’ is ‘vacca’ in Latin and the inoculum material was initially obtained from lesions on the udders of cows affected by a mild disease known as cowpox. However, Dr. Jenner suspected that cowpox originated from horses⁷. Subsequently, Dr. Jenner and others immunized against smallpox using material directly obtained from horses. The use of vaccines from horses was sometimes called ‘equination’ from the Latin ‘equus’ which means ‘horse’¹². Equination and vaccination were practiced side-by-side in Europe^12,13.

About the Recombinant Pox Virus (RPV) Platform

Horsepox virus and vaccines based on its use as a vector are live replicating viruses that elicit strong immune responses. Live replicating orthopoxviruses, like vaccinia or horsepox, can be engineered to express foreign genes and have been exploited as platforms for vaccine development because they possess; (1) large packaging capacity for exogenous DNA inserts, (2) precise virus-specific control of exogenous gene insert expression, (3) lack of persistence or genomic integration in the host, (4) strong immunogenicity as a vaccine, (5) ability to rapidly generate vector/insert constructs, (6) manufacturable at scale, and (7) ability to provide direct antigen presentation. Horsepox-based vaccines are designed to be single dose, vial-sparing vaccines, that can be manufactured using conventional cell culture systems, with the potential for mass scale production and packaging in multi-dose vials. Tonix’s TNX-801 and RPV vaccine candidates are administered percutaneously using a two-pronged, or “bifurcated” needle. The major cutaneous reaction or “take” to vaccinia vaccine was described by Dr. Edward Jenner in 1796 and has been used since then as a biomarker for protective immunity to smallpox, including in the World Health Organization’s (WHO) accelerated smallpox eradication program that successfully eradicated smallpox in the 1960’s. The “take” is a measure of functional T cell immunity validated by the eradication of smallpox, a respiratory-transmitted disease caused by variola.

About Monkeypox and Smallpox

Monkeypox¹⁴ and smallpox¹⁵ are diseases in humans caused by the monkeypox and smallpox (or variola) viruses, respectively. Monkeypox and variola are closely related orthopox viruses. Vaccination against smallpox with live virus vaccines based on horsepox or vaccinia protects against monkeypox. After routine smallpox vaccination was stopped in about 1970, monkeypox has become a growing problem in Africa. Since May of 2022, approximately 30,000 cases have been identified in the United States.^16,17 There are two distinct clades of the monkeypox virus: the central African (Congo Basin) clade, and the west African clade which is associated with the recent outbreak. Historically, the Congo Basin clade has caused more severe disease than the west African clade. In recent times, the case fatality ratio for the virus is about 3–6%.¹⁸ In November, 2022, the WHO began using a new preferred term “mpox” as a synonym for monkeypox.¹⁹ Smallpox is considered eradicated, but there are concerns about malicious reintroduction.

Tonix Pharmaceuticals Holding Corp.¹

Tonix is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on discovering, licensing, acquiring and developing therapeutics to treat and prevent human disease and alleviate suffering. Tonix’s portfolio is composed of central nervous system (CNS), rare disease, immunology and infectious disease product candidates. Tonix’s CNS portfolio includes both small molecules and biologics to treat pain, neurologic, psychiatric and addiction conditions. Tonix’s lead CNS candidate, TNX-102 SL (cyclobenzaprine HCl sublingual tablet), is in mid-Phase 3 development for the management of fibromyalgia with a new Phase 3 study launched in the second quarter of 2022 and interim data expected in the second quarter of 2023. TNX-102 SL is also being developed to treat Long COVID, a chronic post-acute COVID-19 condition. Tonix initiated a Phase 2 study in Long COVID in the third quarter of 2022. TNX-1300 (cocaine esterase) is a biologic designed to treat cocaine intoxication and has been granted Breakthrough Therapy designation by the FDA. A Phase 2 study of TNX-1300 is expected to be initiated in the second quarter of 2023. TNX-1900 (intranasal potentiated oxytocin), a small molecule in development for chronic migraine, is being studied in a potential pivotal Phase 2 study that initiated enrollment in the first quarter of 2023. TNX-601 ER (tianeptine hemioxalate extended-release tablets) is a once-daily formulation of tianeptine being developed as a potential treatment for major depressive disorder (MDD) with a Phase 2 study expected to be initiated in the first quarter of 2023. Tonix’s rare disease portfolio includes TNX-2900 (intranasal potentiated oxytocin) for the treatment of Prader-Willi syndrome. TNX-2900 has been granted Orphan Drug designation by the FDA. Tonix’s immunology portfolio includes biologics to address organ transplant rejection, autoimmunity and cancer, including TNX-1500, which is a humanized monoclonal antibody targeting CD40-ligand (CD40L or CD154) being developed for the prevention of allograft and xenograft rejection and for the treatment of autoimmune diseases. A Phase 1 study of TNX-1500 is expected to be initiated in the second quarter of 2023. Tonix’s infectious disease pipeline includes a vaccine in development to prevent smallpox and monkeypox, TNX-801, a next-generation vaccine to prevent COVID-19, TNX-1850, a platform to make fully human monoclonal antibodies to treat COVID-19, TNX-3600, and humanized anti-SARS-CoV-2 monoclonal antibodies, TNX-3800, recently licensed from Curia. TNX-801, Tonix’s vaccine in development to prevent smallpox and monkeypox, also serves as the live virus vaccine platform or recombinant pox vaccine (RPV) platform for other infectious diseases. A Phase 1 study of TNX-801 is expected to be initiated in the second half of 2023.

¹All of Tonix’s product candidates are investigational new drugs or biologics and have not been approved for any indication.
²Noyce RS, et al. (2018) PLoS One. 13(1):e0188453
³Tulman ER, et al. (2006) J Virol. 80(18):9244-58.PMID:16940536
⁴Tonix Press Release March 16, 202a https://ir.tonixpharma.com/news-events/press-releases/detail/1255/tonix-pharmaceuticals-reports-positive-covid-19-vaccine
⁵Schrick L et al. (2017) N Engl J Med. 377:1491.
⁶Qin et al. (2015) J. Virol. 89:1809.
⁷Jenner E. “An Inquiry Into the Causes and Effects of the Variolae Vaccinae: A Disease Discovered in Some of the Western Counties of England, Particularly Gloucestershire, and Known by the Name of the Cow Pox.” London: Sampson Low, 1798.
⁸Brinkmann A et al, Genome Biology (2020) 21:286 https://doi.org/10.1186/s13059-020-02202-0
⁹Duggan A et al. Genome Biology (2020) 21:175 https://doi.org/10.1186/s13059-020-02079-z
¹⁰Tonix press release. Dec 4, 2020 https://ir.tonixpharma.com/news-events/press-releases/detail/1236/vaccine-genome-researchers-report-99-7-colinear-identity
¹¹Trindale GS et al. (2016) Viruses (12). Pii: E328. PMID:27973399
¹²Esparza E, et al (2017) Vaccine. 35(52):7222-7230.
¹³Esparza J et al. (2020) Vaccine.; 38(30):4773-4779.
¹⁴www.cdc.gov/poxvirus/monkeypox/about.html
¹⁵www.cdc.gov/smallpox/research/
¹⁶Mandavilli, A. The New York Times. May 26, 2020. “Who is protected against monkeypox”
¹⁷ www.cdc.gov/poxvirus/monkeypox/response/2022/us-map.html – Accessed Feb 8, 2023
¹⁸ https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/monkeypox#:~:text=There%20are%20two%20distinct%20genetic,thought%20to%20be%20more%20transmissible – Accessed Feb 8, 2023
¹⁹ https://www.who.int/news/item/28-11-2022-who-recommends-new-name-for-monkeypox-disease – Accessed Feb 8, 2023

This press release and further information about Tonix can be found at www.tonixpharma.com.

Forward Looking Statements

Certain statements in this press release are forward-looking within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements may be identified by the use of forward-looking words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “forecast,” “estimate,” “expect,” and “intend,” among others. These forward-looking statements are based on Tonix’s current expectations and actual results could differ materially. There are a number of factors that could cause actual events to differ materially from those indicated by such forward-looking statements. These factors include, but are not limited to, risks related to the failure to obtain FDA clearances or approvals and noncompliance with FDA regulations; delays and uncertainties caused by the global COVID-19 pandemic; risks related to the timing and progress of clinical development of our product candidates; our need for additional financing; uncertainties of patent protection and litigation; uncertainties of government or third party payor reimbursement; limited research and development efforts and dependence upon third parties; and substantial competition. As with any pharmaceutical under development, there are significant risks in the development, regulatory approval and commercialization of new products. Tonix does not undertake an obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement. Investors should read the risk factors set forth in the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2021, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on March 14, 2022, and periodic reports filed with the SEC on or after the date thereof. All of Tonix’s forward-looking statements are expressly qualified by all such risk factors and other cautionary statements. The information set forth herein speaks only as of the date thereof.

Contacts

Jessica Morris (corporate)
Tonix Pharmaceuticals
investor.relations@tonixpharma.com
(862) 904-8182

Olipriya Das, Ph.D. (media)
Russo Partners
Olipriya.Das@russopartnersllc.com
(646) 942-5588

Peter Vozzo (investors)
ICR Westwicke
peter.vozzo@westwicke.com
(443) 213-0505

Source: Tonix Pharmaceuticals Holding Corp.

Released February 9, 2023

Why NFL Players and Other Pros Need an Elite Money Management Team

Posted on February 9, 2023February 9, 2023 by phoffman@channelchek.com

Managing Money Is as Important as Making It: The Sad Case of Athletes Going Broke

Lacking a solid team is a recipe for organizational failure, and those intending to excel in business—or any other sector—must invest in management. Considering that many professional athletes encounter bankruptcy shortly after retiring, they are a demographic that could greatly benefit from quality financial management teams. Elite athletes earn millions of dollars during a short time, but few succeed at multiplying their earnings to create wealth. An investigation by the Global Financial Literacy Center found that 16 percent of National Football League (NFL) players declare bankruptcy within twelve years of retirement. Quite startling is that some athletes report bankruptcy as early as two years after retirement.

The results of the study also showed that NFL stars were just as likely to experience bankruptcy as other NFL players. Bankruptcy figures are equally daunting for basketball players. Research reveals that National Basketball Association (NBA) players who file for bankruptcy do so within 7.3 years after retirement, and 6.1 percent of all NBA players go bankrupt within fifteen years of exiting their profession. The emotional trauma of bankruptcy can lead to distress. Research indicates that 78 percent of NFL players experience financial distress two years after retirement.

Inept management of finances is the easiest strategy for losing wealth. Professional athletes can avert financial calamities by investing in a better management team. There is a stark difference between managing a junior athlete and managing a superstar who earns millions of dollars yearly. A professional who manages a junior athlete could be an excellent manager for a player at that stage, but the transition to elite status requires people with greater expertise.

In business, a manager should possess the relevant skills. They don’t have to be your friend. Elite athletes need elite managers to help them navigate stratospheric wealth. If a manager doesn’t have expertise in managing successful athletes or businesses, then he is unfit to manage an elite athlete. Athletes who succeed at expanding their empires are reluctant to rely on the services of amateurs.

Magic Johnson credits his success to investing in capable people rather than to the “wisdom” of family members and old friends. Pablo S. Torre paints Johnson as a serious businessman in a piece highlighting the failures of professional athletes:

Johnson started out by admitting he knew nothing about business and sought counsel from . . . men such as Hollywood agent Michael Ovitzand and Peter Guber. Now, Johnson says, he gets calls from star players “every day” . . . and cuts them short if they propose relying on family and friends.

Johnson’s strategy is even more relevant in light of the recent financial scandal involving the disappearance of over twelve million dollars held by sprinting legend Usain Bolt in Jamaican investment firm Stock and Securities Limited (SSL). Venting to reporters, Bolt’s attorney Linton Gordon argues that the Financial Services Commission (FSC) should be held liable for the mishap because the agency lapsed in providing proper oversight:

They should bear responsibility to some extent, if not entirely, because all along they kept quiet and did not alert the public, including Mr. Bolt, to the fact that the company was not operating in a way compliant with the law. It’s 10 years now they say they have been red flagging this company. Had he known that he would have withdrawn his money and he would not have lodged anymore.

Blaming the regulator is easy, but the debacle reveals deficits in Bolt’s management team. Usain Bolt did not need to know that SSL was deemed unsound years ago because his management team should have furnished him with that information. Some years ago, I was at an event where fellow investors argued that SSL was irredeemable. Bolt’s managers were out of the loop. Moreover, Jamaica is known for institutional weakness and fraud, so it’s a bit weird that a man of Bolt’s stature would have so much money stored in a Jamaican institution to begin with.

Some say that the FSC must be accountable for the misappropriation of Bolt’s money, but the FSC penned a report that Bolt’s managers would have seen if they were doing research. Moreover, in a country where agencies are frequently compromised by politics, there is a possibility that the FSC did not suspend the operations of SSL because it was constrained by rogue actors. Bolt’s managers should have shown some insight by recommending that the superstar limit his Jamaican investments and by soliciting the services of leading wealth management firms like UBS Wealth Management or Baird.

The case study of Usain Bolt demonstrates that even athletes with good managers should never hesitate to upgrade when their employees are not equipped for bigger challenges. Money is hard to make, but with a bad manager, it’s easy to lose. Therefore, athletes interested in keeping their money must invest in the right team or face the consequences.

About the Author:

Lipton Matthews is a researcher, business analyst, and contributor to Merion West, The Federalist, American Thinker, Intellectual Takeout, mises.org, and Imaginative Conservative. He may be contacted at lo_matthews@yahoo.com