Month: September 2023

Release – MustGrow Announces Investor Relations Agreement with Harbor Access

Posted on by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

Research News and Market Data on MGROF

SASKATOON, Saskatchewan, Canada, September 12, 2023 – MustGrow Biologics Corp. (TSXV: MGRO) (OTC: MGROF) (FRA: 0C0) (the “Company” or “MustGrow”) is pleased to announce the engagement of Harbor Access LLC (“Harbor Access”) to perform investor relations services and activities, as defined in accordance with the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange (“TSXV”) and applicable securities laws.

“In connection with recent Company announcements including our significant project expansion with Janssen PMP, it is timely to refresh our investor relations and communications efforts, ” said Corey Giasson, CEO of MustGrow. “We believe that having an investor relations firm with broad experience in both the Canadian and US markets can provide strong support in creating wider awareness and expanding our investor base.”

“We are delighted to be working with Corey and the MustGrow team to enable more investors to be familiar with this unique and compelling investment opportunity given the growing importance of securing the global food supply,” stated Jonathan Paterson, Founder of Harbor Access

Pursuant to the agreement with Harbor Access, the Company will pay a cash fee of USD$8,000 per month over an initital period of 12 months, subject to renewal. Harbor Access does not control any common shares in the Company.

———

About MustGrow

MustGrow is an agriculture biotech company developing organic biocontrol, soil amendment and biofertility products by harnessing the natural defense mechanism and organic materials of the mustard plant to sustainably protect the global food supply and help farmers feed the world. MustGrow and its leading global partners — Janssen PMP (pharmaceutical division of Johnson & Johnson), Bayer, Sumitomo Corporation, and Univar Solutions’ NexusBioAg — are developing mustard-based organic solutions to potentially replace harmful synthetic chemicals. Concurrently, with new formulations derived from food- grade mustard, the Company is pursuing the adoption and use of its technology in the soil amendment and biofertily markets. Over 150 independent tests have been completed, validating MustGrow’s safe and effective approach to crop and food protection and yield enhancements. Pending regulatory approval, MustGrow’s patented liquid products could be applied through injection, standard drip or spray equipment, improving functionality and performance features. Now a platform technology, MustGrow and its global partners are pursuing applications in several different industries from preplant soil treatment and weed control, to postharvest disease control and food preservation, to soil amendment and biofertility. MustGrow has approximately 50.1 million basic common shares issued and outstanding and 56.3 million shares fully diluted. For further details, please visit www.mustgrow.ca.

Contact Information

Corey Giasson
Director & CEO
Phone: +1-306-668-2652
info@mustgrow.ca

About Harbor Access 

Harbor Access represents and advises micro to mega cap companies. The Company has a measured approach to creating a capital markets communications program, which helps optimize their clients’ visibility. Harbor Access brings extensive global experience and professionalism to each client and customizes every solution to meet their clients’ goals.

For more information about Harbor Access, please visit www.harbor-access.com

Contact Information

Jonathan Paterson
Founder & Managing Partner
Phone: +1-475-477-9401
Jonathan.Paterson@Harbor-access.com

MustGrow Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements included in this news release constitute “forward-looking statements” which involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may affect the results, performance or achievements of MustGrow.

Generally, forward-looking information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as “plans”, “expects”, “is expected”, “budget”, “estimates”, “intends”, “anticipates” or “does not anticipate”, or “believes”, or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “might”, “occur” or “be achieved”. Examples of forward-looking statements in this news release include, among others, statements MustGrow makes regarding creating wider awareness and expanding its investor base.

Forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that may cause the actual results of MustGrow to differ materially from those discussed in such forward-looking statements, and even if such actual results are realized or substantially realized, there can be no assurance that they will have the expected consequences to, or effects on, MustGrow. Important factors that could cause MustGrow’s actual results and financial condition to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements include market receptivity to investor relations activities as well as those risks described in more detail in MustGrow’s Annual Information Form for the year ended December 31, 2022 and other continuous disclosure documents filed by MustGrow with the applicable securities regulatory authorities which are available at www.sedar.com. Readers are referred to such documents for more detailed information about MustGrow, which is subject to the qualifications, assumptions and notes set forth therein.

This release does not constitute an offer for sale of, nor a solicitation for offers to buy, any securities in the United States.

Neither the TSXV, nor their Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSXV), nor the OTC Markets has approved the contents of this release or accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

© 2023 MustGrow Biologics Corp. All rights reserved.

Release – Ocugen To Host Virtual Investor & Analyst Event on September 13, 2023

Posted on by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

Research News and Market Data on OCGN

September 12, 2023

PDF Version

COMPANY TO SHARE UPDATED RESULTS FROM ONGOING PHASE 1/2 TRIAL OF OCU400 FOR THE TREATMENT OF RETINITIS PIGMENTOSA AND LEBER CONGENITAL AMAUROSIS

MALVERN, Pa., Sept. 12, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Ocugen, Inc. (Ocugen or the Company) (NASDAQ: OCGN), a biotechnology company focused on discovering, developing, and commercializing novel gene and cell therapies, biologics, and vaccines, today announced that it will host an Investor and Analyst Event on September 13, 2023 at 8:30 a.m. ET. During the webcast and conference call, members of the Ocugen leadership team and key opinion leaders will discuss updated results from the Phase 1/2 trial of OCU400 for the treatment of retinitis pigmentosa (RP) and Leber congenital amaurosis (LCA).

The event will feature:

Shankar Musunuri, PhD, MBA, Chairman, CEO and Co-founder, Ocugen

Arun Upadhyay, PhD, Chief Scientific Officer, Head of Research, Development & Medical, Ocugen

Huma Qamar, MD, MPH, Head of Clinical Development and Medical Affairs, Ocugen

David Birch, PhD, Scientific Director, Retina Foundation of the Southwest, Principal investigator of the study

Byron L. Lam, MD, Mark J. Daily Professor, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami, Principal investigator of the study

Lejla Vajzovic, MD, FASRS, Associate Professor of Ophthalmology with Tenure, Director of Duke Vitreoretinal Fellowship Program at Duke Eye Center and Duke University School of Medicine and leader in gene-therapy research

Webcast and Conference Call Details

Dial-in Numbers: (800) 715-9871 for U.S. callers and (646) 307-1963 for international callers
Conference ID: 7803227

Webcast: Available on the events section of the Ocugen investor site

A replay of the call and archived webcast will be available for approximately 45 days following the event on the Ocugen investor site.

About Ocugen, Inc.
Ocugen, Inc. is a biotechnology company focused on discovering, developing, and commercializing novel gene and cell therapies and vaccines that improve health and offer hope for patients across the globe. We are making an impact on patient’s lives through courageous innovation—forging new scientific paths that harness our unique intellectual and human capital. Our breakthrough modifier gene therapy platform has the potential to treat multiple retinal diseases with a single product, and we are advancing research in infectious diseases to support public health and orthopedic diseases to address unmet medical needs. Discover more at www.ocugen.com and follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn.

Cautionary Note on Forward-Looking Statements
This presentation contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, which are subject to risks and uncertainties. We may, in some cases, use terms such as “predicts,” “believes,” “potential,” “proposed,” “continue,” “estimates,” “anticipates,” “expects,” “plans,” “intends,” “may,” “could,” “might,” “will,” “should,” or other words that convey uncertainty of future events or outcomes to identify these forward-looking statements. Such statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding our clinical development activities and related anticipated timelines. Such statements are subject to numerous important factors, risks, and uncertainties that may cause actual events or results to differ materially from our current expectations. These and other risks and uncertainties are more fully described in our periodic filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), including the risk factors described in the section entitled “Risk Factors” in the quarterly and annual reports that we file with the SEC. Any forward-looking statements that we make in this presentation speak only as of the date of this presentation. Except as required by law, we assume no obligation to update forward-looking statements contained in this presentation whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, after the date of this presentation.

Contact:
Tiffany Hamilton
Head of Communications
IR@ocugen.com 

Tesla’s Dojo Supercomputer Presents Massive Upside for Investors

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

Tesla’s new Dojo supercomputer could unlock tremendous value for investors, according to analysts at Morgan Stanley. The bank predicts Dojo could boost Tesla’s market valuation by over $600 billion.

Morgan Stanley set a sky-high 12-18 month price target of $400 per share for Tesla based on Dojo’s potential. This implies a market cap of $1.39 trillion, which is nearly 76% above Tesla’s current $789 billion valuation.

Tesla only began producing Dojo in July 2022 but plans to invest over $1 billion in the powerful supercomputer over the next year. Dojo will be used to train artificial intelligence models for autonomous driving.

Morgan Stanley analysts estimate Dojo could enable robotaxis and software services that extend far beyond Tesla’s current business of vehicle manufacturing. The bank nearly doubled its 2040 revenue projection for Tesla’s network services division from $157 billion to $335 billion thanks to Dojo.

By licensing self-driving software powered by Dojo to third-party transportation fleets, Tesla could generate tremendous high-margin revenues. Morgan Stanley sees network services delivering over 60% of Tesla’s core earnings by 2040, up from just 30% in 2030.

Thanks to this upside potential, Morgan Stanley upgraded Tesla stock from Equal-Weight to Overweight. The analysts stated “Dojo completely changes the growth trajectory for Tesla’s autonomy business.”

At its current $248.50 share price, Tesla trades at a lofty forward P/E ratio of 57.9x compared to legacy automakers like Ford at 6.3x and GM at 4.6x. But if Morgan Stanley’s bull case proves accurate, Tesla could rapidly grow into its valuation over the next decade.

In summary, Tesla’s AI advantage with Dojo makes the stock’s premium valuation more reasonable. Investors buying at today’s prices could reap huge gains if Dojo unlocks a new $600 billion revenue stream in autonomous mobility services.

The Power and Potential of Dojo

Dojo represents a massive investment by Tesla as it aims to lead the future of autonomous driving. The specialized supercomputer is designed to train deep neural networks using vast amounts of visual data from Tesla’s fleet of vehicles.

This differentiated AI training will allow Tesla to improve perceptions for full self-driving at a faster pace. As self-driving functionality becomes more robust, Tesla can unlock new revenue opportunities.

Morgan Stanley analyst Adam Jones stated: “If Dojo can help make cars ‘see’ and ‘react,’ what other markets could open up? Think of any device at the edge with a camera that makes real-time decisions based on its visual field.”

Dojo’s processing power will permit Tesla to develop advanced simulations that speed up testing. The supercomputer’s capacity is expected to exceed that of the top 200 fastest supercomputers combined.

Tesla claims Dojo will drive down the costs of training networks by orders of magnitude. This efficiency can translate into higher margins as costs drop for autonomous AI development.

Dojo was designed in-house by Tesla AI director Andrej Karpathy and his team. Karpathy called Dojo the “most exciting thing I’ve seen in my career.” With Dojo, Tesla is aiming to reduce reliance on external cloud providers like Google and Amazon.

Morgan Stanley Boosts Tesla Price Target by 60%

The potential of monetizing Tesla’s self-driving lead through Dojo led analysts at Morgan Stanley to dramatically increase their expectations.

Led by analyst Adam Jones, Morgan Stanley boosted its 12-18 month price target on Tesla stock by 60% to $400 per share. This new level implies a market value for Tesla of nearly $1.39 trillion.

Hitting this price target would mean Tesla stock gaining about 76% from its current level around $248.50. Tesla shares jumped 6% on Monday following the report as investors reacted positively.

Jones explained the sharply higher price target by stating: “Dojo completely changes the growth trajectory for Tesla’s autonomy business.”

He expects Dojo will open up addressable markets for Tesla that “extend well beyond selling vehicles at a fixed price.” In other words, Dojo can turn Tesla into more of a high-margin software and services provider.

Take a look at One Stop Systems (OSS), a US-based company that designs and manufactures AI Transportable edge computing modules and systems that are used in autonomous vehicles.

EuroDry (EDRY) – EuroDry doubles down on shipping recovery

Posted on by cpereira@noblefcm.com


Wednesday, September 13, 2023

EuroDry Ltd. was formed on January 8, 2018 under the laws of the Republic of the Marshall Islands to consolidate the drybulk fleet of Euroseas Ltd. into a separate listed public company. EuroDry was spun-off from Euroseas Ltd. on May 30, 2018; it trades on the NASDAQ Capital Market under the ticker EDRY. EuroDry operates in the dry cargo, drybulk shipping market. EuroDry’s operations are managed by Eurobulk Ltd., an ISO 9001:2008 and ISO 14001:2004 certified affiliated ship management company and Eurobulk (Far East) Ltd. Inc., which are responsible for the day- to-day commercial and technical management and operations of the vessels. EuroDry employs its vessels on spot and period charters and under pool agreements.

Michael Heim, Senior Vice President, Equity Research Analyst, Energy & Transportation, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

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

EuroDry announced the acquisition of three ships for $65 million. The three Ultramax ships are smaller than the fleet average but newer having been built in 2014-15. The ships are expected to be delivered in Oct-Nov and are yet to be commissioned. We have assumed the ships will be commissioned at a TCE rate of $12,000/day beginning in the 2024-1Q. This assumes an improvement in drybulk shipping rates in the next three months. Our models estimate that the three ships will add $4 million to EBITDA in 2024 implying a cost of 16 times EBITDA.

Of course this is not just about 2024 results. Chairman and CEO Aristides Pittas used the opportunity of the acquisition to reiterate his belief that market fundamentals will improve in the next two to three years due to a low orderbook. We agree with Mr. Pittas’s assessment but note that the prolonged war in Ukraine (lower grain trade) and a slower-than-expected economic rebound in China (steel and ore trade) could mean improvements are not seen in 2024.


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Equity Research is available at no cost to Registered users of Channelchek. Not a Member? Click ‘Join’ to join the Channelchek Community. There is no cost to register, and we never collect credit card information.

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

*Analyst certification and important disclosures included in the full report. NOTE: investment decisions should not be based upon the content of this research summary. Proper due diligence is required before making any investment decision. 

Defense Metals Corp. (DFMTF) – Wicheeda REE Mineral Resource Estimate Upgraded and Expanded

Posted on by cpereira@noblefcm.com


Wednesday, September 13, 2023

Defense Metals Corp. is a mineral exploration and development company focused on the acquisition, exploration and development of mineral deposits containing metals and elements commonly used in the electric power market, defense industry, national security sector and in the production of green energy technologies, such as, rare earths magnets used in wind turbines and in permanent magnet motors for electric vehicles. Defense Metals owns 100% of the Wicheeda Rare Earth Element Property located near Prince George, British Columbia, Canada. Defense Metals Corp. trades in Canada under the symbol “DEFN” on the TSX Venture Exchange, in the United States, under “DFMTF” on the OTCQB and in Germany on the Frankfurt Exchange under “35D”.

Mark Reichman, Managing Director, Equity Research Analyst, Natural Resources, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

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

Mineral resource estimate. Defense Metals released results from its updated mineral resource estimate (MRE) for the Wicheeda Rare Earth Element (REE) Project. The 2023 mineral resource estimate is based on an updated geological model incorporating the results from 10,350 meters of drilling within 45 holes drilled by Defense Metals during 2021 and 2022.

Larger and higher-quality resource base. The 2023 resource estimate includes a 6.4 million tonne measured mineral resource averaging 2.86% total rare earth oxide (TREO), a 27.8 million tonne indicated mineral resource averaging 1.84% TREO, and an 11.1 million tonne inferred mineral resource averaging 1.02% TREO. The 2023 mineral resource estimate represents an 18.2% increase in TREO and a 31.3% in tonnage compared to the 2021 MRE. Total measured and indicated mineral resources of 34.2 million tonnes, averaging 2.02% TREO is a significant upgrade compared to the previous estimate and can be included in the mine plan for the preliminary feasibility study that is expected to be completed in the first half of 2024.


Get the Full Report

Equity Research is available at no cost to Registered users of Channelchek. Not a Member? Click ‘Join’ to join the Channelchek Community. There is no cost to register, and we never collect credit card information.

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

*Analyst certification and important disclosures included in the full report. NOTE: investment decisions should not be based upon the content of this research summary. Proper due diligence is required before making any investment decision. 

Uranium Bull Run Continues with Prices Hitting New Highs

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

Uranium prices have entered a new bull market in 2023, surging 20% so far this year. The nuclear fuel recently hit $60 per pound for the first time in over a decade. This milestone comes on the back of rosier demand forecasts from the World Nuclear Association (WNA) and vastly outperforms other metals markets.

The WNA recently released its biennial report at the World Nuclear Symposium in London. The report provides insights into future uranium demand, underscoring the role nuclear power will play in the global energy transition. It predicts world reactor requirements for uranium will reach almost 130,000 tonnes by 2040, up from 65,650 tonnes in 2023.

Even the WNA’s most conservative projection of 87,000 tonnes in 2040 represents robust demand growth. This is driven by an expected expansion of nuclear capacity from 391 gigawatts currently to 686 gigawatts by 2040 under its base case scenario. The bulk of new reactors will be located in China, which is aggressively decarbonizing by replacing coal plants with nuclear.

China has 23 reactors under construction, 23 more planned, and 168 proposed to add to its existing fleet of 53 reactors. The WNA report increased its overall uranium demand growth projections to 4.1% annually through 2040, up from 3.1% in its 2021 forecast.

This surging demand presents a huge opportunity for growth in the uranium mining sector. As the market transitions from oversupply to undersupply, uranium companies are poised to benefit tremendously. Their revenues, earnings, and valuations could rapidly improve as prices rise. Many junior miners could become acquisition targets for larger producers looking to add resources.

Take a moment to take a look at more uranium and vanadium and mining companies by viewing Michael Heim’s coverage list.

A key driver of demand is the accelerated adoption of small modular reactors (SMRs). These compact, modular designs allow nuclear plants to be constructed faster and cheaper. The WNA sees SMRs reaching 31 gigawatts of installed capacity by 2040, significantly boosting uranium demand. However, forecasts remain relatively conservative given SMRs’ potential applications in shipping, data centers, and other sectors.

According to BMO Capital Markets, SMRs could play a pivotal role in powering remote mines looking to replace diesel generators with cleaner energy solutions. With ample space and ideal climates, mines are adding solar and wind power. But in colder regions like Canada, SMRs may be the only viable zero-carbon option.

In much the same way platinum miners are testing hydrogen trucks onsite, uranium producers could pioneer SMR installations at operations. This would create new demand from uranium miners themselves. BMO estimates SMR capacity could reach 58 gigawatts by 2030, or around 10% of total nuclear generation.

While secondary supplies like reprocessed fuel and stockpiles have bridged the supply-demand gap for decades, the WNA report acknowledges these inventories are diminishing. With roughly 3.7 years of reactor requirements in current stockpiles, the WNA projects secondary supplies will fall from 11-14% of demand now to just 4-11% by 2050.

This decline underscores the need for new mine supply to meet growing reactor demand in the long run. With secondary sources drying up, uranium prices must rise to incentivize investment in expansion and new projects. The uranium bull run still appears to be in its early innings, as rosier demand forecasts confront constrained mine supply. Nuclear energy’s role in global decarbonization efforts continues to expand, brightening the outlook for uranium markets and uranium mining companies.

Mainz Biomed Reports Strong ColoAlert Data, Identifies Biomarkers for FDA Trial

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

Mainz Biomed (NASDAQ:MYNZ) announced highly positive results this week from its ColoFuture clinical trial evaluating the integration of novel mRNA biomarkers into its ColoAlert screening test for colorectal cancer. The results demonstrated ColoAlert’s strong performance for detecting colorectal cancer and advanced adenomas, while also identifying promising biomarkers to further improve early detection capabilities.

The ColoFuture study is a multi-center international trial assessing whether integrating recently acquired mRNA biomarkers from Université de Sherbrooke can enhance ColoAlert’s sensitivity and specificity profile. ColoAlert is Mainz’s flagship product, a simple yet highly accurate home-based test using stool samples to detect colorectal cancer and advanced precancerous adenomas.

The product is already commercialized across Europe and select international territories. However, ColoFuture aimed to identify ways to further extend ColoAlert’s technical capabilities in preparation for an upcoming U.S. clinical trial that could lead to FDA approval.

Interim analysis from the ColoFuture trial included 220 subjects across centers in Germany, Norway and Denmark. On the primary endpoints for colorectal cancer detection, ColoAlert achieved 94% sensitivity and 97% specificity after integrating the novel mRNA biomarkers.

For identifying advanced adenomas, a key precursor to cancer, the updated test demonstrated 81% sensitivity. According to Mainz Biomed CEO Guido Baechler, “The power to detect lesions in a pre-cancerous stage can change the entire CRC diagnostic landscape. If advanced adenomas are identified early, they are curable.”

The positive data catalyzed strong trading volume as Mainz Biomed’s stock price rose 15% on over 1.5 million shares traded. The market enthusiastically welcomed the results.

The mRNA biomarkers evaluated in ColoFuture were specifically selected from research at Université de Sherbrooke. Published analysis of the biomarkers showed ability to detect signals from patients with either colorectal cancer or advanced adenomas. Mainz Biomed acquired these biomarker rights in January 2022.

By treating patients before polyps progress to cancer, integrating these biomarkers into ColoAlert could help prevent colorectal cancer altogether. This could greatly improve patient outcomes and reduce the burden of this deadly disease.

The positive data provides validation of ColoAlert’s accuracy as a non-invasive screening tool. It also gives Mainz Biomed multiple novel mRNA biomarkers to integrate into its upcoming U.S. clinical trial, dubbed ReconAAsense, which could support FDA approval under the PMA pathway.

According to Baechler, “As we look forward to publishing and presenting the full dataset, we eagerly await the outcome from our ReconAAsense clinical trial which remains on track to report results in Q4 of this year.”

With colorectal cancer remaining a leading cause of cancer deaths, early detection is critical. ColoAlert offers a simple, at-home solution that people can easily incorporate into routine wellness screenings. The new biomarkers identified in ColoFuture could make the test accessible to even more patients.

Mainz Biomed continues to spearhead innovation in the field, leveraging the latest advances in genetics to improve detection. The impressive ColoFuture results provides further validation of ColoAlert’s accuracy, while also charting a path forward to commercialization in the U.S.

With pivotal FDA trial data on the horizon, Mainz Biomed is positioned to disrupt the market, offering an easy yet cutting-edge approach to potentially save lives through early colorectal cancer detection.

Take a look at more biotechnology companies by viewing Robert LeBoyer’s coverage list.

Consumer Prices Rise at Faster Pace in August

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

The Consumer Price Index (CPI) increased 0.6% in August on a seasonally adjusted basis, quickening from the 0.2% rise seen in July, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ latest report. Over the past 12 months through August, headline CPI inflation stands at 3.7% before seasonal adjustment, up from 3.2% for the 12-month period ending in July.

The August monthly gain was primarily driven by a spike of 10.6% in the gasoline index. Gasoline was coming off a tamer 0.2% increase in July. Food prices also contributed to inflationary pressures, with the food at home index edging up 0.2% again last month. The food away from home index rose 0.3%.

Meanwhile, the energy index excluding gasoline picked up as well. Natural gas costs ticked up 0.1%, electricity prices rose 0.2%, and fuel oil prices surged 9.1%.

The core CPI, which removes volatile food and energy categories, rose 0.3% in August after a 0.2% gain in July. The shelter index has been a main driver of core inflation. It covers rental costs and owners’ equivalent rent, both of which have rapidly increased due to imbalances between housing supply and demand.

On an annual basis, the energy index has fallen 3.6%, as gasoline, natural gas and fuel oil costs are down over the past 12 months. However, the food and core indexes are up 4.3% and 4.3% year-over-year, respectively.

Within the core CPI, the main drivers have been shelter costs, up 7.3% over the last 12 months, along with auto insurance (+19.1%), recreation services (+3.5%), personal care (+5.8%) and new vehicles (+2.9%). Medical care services inflation has also accelerated to 6.6% over the past year.

Geographically, inflation varies significantly by region. The Northeast has seen 4.2% CPI inflation over the past year, the Midwest 3.9%, the South 3.7%, and the West just 2.9%. By city size, larger metropolitan areas over 1.5 million people have experienced 3.8% inflation, compared to 3.6% for mid-sized cities and 3.7% in smaller cities.

August’s monthly data shows inflation quickened after signs of cooling in July. While gasoline futures retreated in September, shelter inflation remains stubbornly high with no meaningful relief expected until mortgage rates decline substantially.

With core inflation running well above the Fed’s 2% target, further interest rate hikes are anticipated to combat still-high inflation. But the path to a soft economic landing appears increasingly narrow amid recession risks.

The next CPI update will be released in mid-October, shedding light on whether persistent pricing pressures are continuing to squeeze household budgets. For now, the August report shows inflation picking up steam after the prior month’s encouraging data.

Looking Ahead

Consumers may get temporary relief in the near term at the gas pump, as oil and gasoline futures prices pulled back in September following OPEC’s modest production cut.

Yet the larger concern remains the entrenched inflation in essentials like food, rent and medical care. Shelter inflation in particular has shown little sign of abating, as rental rates and housing prices remain disconnected from incomes.

Mortgage rates have soared above 6% in 2023 after starting the year around 3%. The sharp rise in financing costs continues to shut many homebuyers out of the market. Until mortgage rates meaningfully decline, shelter inflation is likely to persist.

And that will be challenging as long as the Fed keeps interest rates elevated. Monetary policy has lagged in responding to inflation, putting central bankers in catch-up mode. Further rate hikes are expected in the coming months absent a significant cooling in pricing pressures.

But the risks of the Fed overtightening and spurring a recession continue to intensify. The path to a soft landing for the economy is looking increasingly precarious.

For consumers, it means further inflationary pain is likely in store before a sustained moderation emerges. Budgets will remain pressured by pricier essentials, leaving less room for discretionary purchases.

While the monthly data will remain volatile, the overall trend points to stubborn inflation persisting through year-end. The Fed will be closely watching to see if their actions to date have slowed price gains enough. If not, consumers should prepare for more rate hikes and resulting economic uncertainty into 2024.

Release – GeoVax Presents Corporate Update at the H.C. Wainwright 25th Annual Global Investment Conference

Posted on by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

Research News and Market Data on GOVX

Updates Presented for Gedeptin® and GEO-CM04S1 Phase 2 Clinical Trials

ATLANTA, GA, September 12, 2023 – GeoVax Labs, Inc. (Nasdaq: GOVX), a biotechnology company developing immunotherapies and vaccines against cancers and infectious diseases, today announced that its Chairman and CEO, David Dodd, presented a company overview during the H.C. Wainwright 25th Annual Global Investment Conference on September 11. A webcast replay of Mr. Dodd’s presentation can be viewed here.

During his presentation, Mr. Dodd reviewed the Company’s four ongoing Phase 2 clinical trials:

GEO-CM04S1 (Next-Generation COVID-19 Vaccine)

  • As a primary vaccine in immunocompromised patients (with hematologic cancers receiving cell transplants or CAR-T therapy). gov Identifier: NCT04977024.
  • As a booster vaccine in immunocompromised patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), a recognized high-risk group for whom current mRNA vaccines and monoclonal antibody (MAb) therapies appear inadequate relative to providing protective immunity. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05672355.
  • As a booster vaccine for healthy patients who have previously received the Pfizer or Moderna mRNA vaccine. gov Identifier: NCT04639466.

Gedeptin® (Gene Therapy for Solid Tumors)

  • Evaluating the safety and efficacy of repeat cycles of Gedeptin therapy in patients with recurrent head and neck cancers whose tumor(s) are accessible for injection and who have no curable treatment options.gov Identifier: NCT03754933.

Commenting on the GEO-CM04S1 clinical program, Mr. Dodd said, “Our next-generation COVID-19 vaccine is designed to provide critically needed protection to those individuals with depleted immune systems, and who are inadequately protected by the currently authorized vaccines and monoclonal antibody therapies. Using our MVA platform as its backbone, our vaccine candidate is “variant-agnostic” and we expect it to provide broader, more durable protection than existing authorized vaccines. We anticipate multiple significant catalyst events during the remainder of 2023. We recently completed patient enrollment in the healthy booster trial, and anticipate completion of enrollment in our CLL trial soon, while also accelerating enrollment in the cell transplant trial through multi-site expansion. We also believe our vaccine to be an excellent example of next-generation vaccines, providing more robust and durable protection, especially for immunocompromised individuals who don’t adequately respond to the currently authorized COVID-19 vaccines or monoclonal antibody therapies.”

Regarding the Gedeptin program, Mr. Dodd stated, “We expect to soon complete the first stage of this study, which is being funded in part by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) pursuant to its Orphan Products Clinical Trials Grants Program, and then initiate an expanded Phase 2 trial focused on expedited FDA registration. We are excited about the potential for the Gedeptin “tumor-agnostic” platform, which may include expanded development, both as monotherapy and combination therapy in conjunction with therapies such as immune checkpoint inhibitors. Possible expansion indications include breast, prostate, and pancreatic cancers, among other solid tumors. This program also offers multiple opportunities for global strategic collaborations and partnerships.”

Mr. Dodd’s concluding comments focused on GeoVax’s advancements made in its MVA manufacturing process in transforming to a high-yield, high-capacity continuous cell line system, as well as the Company’s efforts for achieving expedited registration for the first U.S.-sourced vaccine against Mpox and smallpox. Mr. Dodd said, “Our progress in developing a continuous avian cell line system is nothing short of transformative for manufacturing our MVA-based vaccines and immunotherapies, and we recently partnered with Advanced Bioscience Laboratories, Inc. to support the production of our MVA-based products through late-stage development and eventual commercialization. Additionally, the recent expansion of our GEO-CM04S1 rights to include development for Mpox and smallpox adds to other rights we previously secured from the NIH covering preclinical, clinical, and commercial uses of the NIH-MVA. This provides a compelling opportunity to leverage our MVA-based vaccine expertise and help expand the global public health supply options available for the worldwide public health threats posed by SARS-CoV-2, Mpox, and smallpox.”

About GeoVax

GeoVax Labs, Inc. is a clinical-stage biotechnology company developing novel therapies and vaccines for solid tumor cancers and many of the world’s most threatening infectious diseases. The company’s lead program in oncology is a novel oncolytic solid tumor gene-directed therapy, Gedeptin®, presently in a multicenter Phase 1/2 clinical trial for advanced head and neck cancers. GeoVax’s lead infectious disease candidate is GEO-CM04S1, a next-generation COVID-19 vaccine targeting high-risk immunocompromised patient populations. Currently in three Phase 2 clinical trials, GEO-CM04S1 is being evaluated as a primary vaccine for immunocompromised patients such as those suffering from hematologic cancers and other patient populations for whom the current authorized COVID-19 vaccines are insufficient, and as a booster vaccine in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). In addition, GEO-CM04S1 is in a Phase 2 clinical trial evaluating the vaccine as a more robust, durable COVID-19 booster among healthy patients who previously received the mRNA vaccines. GeoVax has a leadership team who have driven significant value creation across multiple life science companies over the past several decades. For more information, visit our website: www.geovax.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

This release contains forward-looking statements regarding GeoVax’s business plans. The words “believe,” “look forward to,” “may,” “estimate,” “continue,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “should,” “plan,” “could,” “target,” “potential,” “is likely,” “will,” “expect” and similar expressions, as they relate to us, are intended to identify forward-looking statements. We have based these forward-looking statements largely on our current expectations and projections about future events and financial trends that we believe may affect our financial condition, results of operations, business strategy and financial needs. Actual results may differ materially from those included in these statements due to a variety of factors, including whether: GeoVax is able to obtain acceptable results from ongoing or future clinical trials of its investigational products, GeoVax’s immuno-oncology products and preventative vaccines can provoke the desired responses, and those products or vaccines can be used effectively, GeoVax’s viral vector technology adequately amplifies immune responses to cancer antigens, GeoVax can develop and manufacture its immuno-oncology products and preventative vaccines with the desired characteristics in a timely manner, GeoVax’s immuno-oncology products and preventative vaccines will be safe for human use, GeoVax’s vaccines will effectively prevent targeted infections in humans, GeoVax’s immuno-oncology products and preventative vaccines will receive regulatory approvals necessary to be licensed and marketed, GeoVax raises required capital to complete development, there is development of competitive products that may be more effective or easier to use than GeoVax’s products, GeoVax will be able to enter into favorable manufacturing and distribution agreements, and other factors, over which GeoVax has no control.

Further information on our risk factors is contained in our periodic reports on Form 10-Q and Form 10-K that we have filed and will file with the SEC. Any forward-looking statement made by us herein speaks only as of the date on which it is made. Factors or events that could cause our actual results to differ may emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for us to predict all of them. We undertake no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as may be required by law. 

Contact:

GeoVax Labs, Inc.

investor@geovax.com

678-384-7220

Release – Caramel Churro Crunch Ice Cream and Shake Arrive on Marble Slab Creamery Menu

Posted on by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

Research News and Market Data on FAT

SEPTEMBER 12, 2023

Fall Flavors Get a Sweet Spin at Original Frozen Slab Concept

LOS ANGELES, Sept. 12, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Marble Slab Creamery, the imaginative small-batch ice cream franchise that never fails to dream up the ultimate flavor combinations, announces its brand-new flavor offering – Caramel Churro Crunch. Available as an Ice Cream or a Shake, the autumn-inspired flavor is sure to take guests’ tastebuds straight to sweater weather.

Caramel Churro Crunch Ice Cream is made using Marble Slab Creamery’s original frozen slab technique. It starts with creamy Sweet Cream Ice Cream and is then swirled with caramel sauce and mini crunchy churros. The Marble Slab Creamery Caramel Churro Crunch Shake is a blend of Sweet Cream Ice Cream, mini crunchy churros, and a swirl of caramel sauce, all topped with whipped cream and crushed mini churros. The tasty but limited-time treat is available starting today and runs through Oct. 31.

For 40 years, Marble Slab Creamery has been an innovator in the ice cream space, creating the frozen slab technique and offering homemade, small-batch Ice Cream with always free Mix-Ins, Shakes in a variety of flavors, and Ice Cream Cakes. The leading chain boasts over 375 locations and continues to expand across the globe, most notably with its cookie sister brand, Great American Cookies, providing guests with the ultimate destination for sweet treats.

“Churro continues to be a trending flavor profile we couldn’t help but lean into for fall,” said Katie Thoms, Senior Director of Marketing at FAT Brands’ Quick Service Division. “We’re proud of this decadent flavor combination we’ve created and know our fans will love to cozy up with a cup, cone or shake.”

For more information on Marble Slab Creamery, visit www.marbleslab.com.

About FAT (Fresh. Authentic. Tasty.) Brands
FAT Brands (NASDAQ: FAT) is a leading global franchising company that strategically acquires, markets and develops fast casual, casual and polished casual dining restaurant concepts around the world. The Company currently owns 17 restaurant brands: Round Table Pizza, Fatburger, Marble Slab Creamery, Johnny Rockets, Fazoli’s, Twin Peaks, Great American Cookies, Hot Dog on a Stick, Buffalo’s Cafe & Express, Hurricane Grill & Wings, Native Grill & Wings, Pretzelmaker, Elevation Burger, Yalla Mediterranean and Ponderosa and Bonanza Steakhouses, and franchises and owns over 2,300 units worldwide. For more information on FAT Brands, please visit http://www.fatbrands.com.

About Marble Slab Creamery
Since dreaming up the frozen slab technique and serving fresh homemade, small-batch Ice Cream in-store since 1983, Marble Slab Creamery has always known how to dream big. We sprinkle our customers with imagination and promise to inspire with infinite Ice Cream possibilities to feed your curiosity and capture cravings. With our always-free mix-in philosophy, delicious Ice Cream and Shakes in a variety of flavors, hand-rolled waffle cones, and Ice Cream Cakes, imagination has no limits. Today, Marble Slab Creamery is enjoyed by consumers across the globe with locations in Bahrain, Canada, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Guam, Puerto Rico, and the United States. For more information, visit www.marbleslab.com.

MEDIA C ONTACT :
Ali Lloyd, FAT Brands
alloyd@fatbrands.com
435-760-6168

Source: FAT Brands Inc.

Release – Office Depot Launches New Podcast Series to Empower Small Business Owners

Posted on by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

Research News and Market Data on ODP

The “Imagine Success” Podcast Will Help Listeners Gain Insights and Inspiration from Conversations with Industry Leaders and Small Business Owners

BOCA RATON, Fla.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Sep. 12, 2023– Office Depot, a leading omnichannel retailer dedicated to helping its small business, home office, and education clients live more productive and organized lives through innovative products and services, today announced the launch of a new podcast series called “Imagine Success,” available now at officedepot.com/podcast and on major podcast platforms including Spotify and Apple Podcasts. The series will include thought-provoking conversations to inspire entrepreneurs and help guide them through the various stages of a business’s life cycle, from taking the leap to building a brand to identifying sources of funding, scaling for growth, conquering challenges and more.

Hosted by Kevin Moffitt, executive vice president of The ODP Corporation and president of Office Depot, the podcast series features real-world strategies and stories from industry leaders and small business owners alike. Through these stories, guests will educate and inspire others to achieve their own version of success.

“At Office Depot, we’re always striving to find new, innovative ways to enable success for small business owners,” said Moffitt. “We hope listeners of the podcast will find practical insights, valuable takeaways and actionable tips from each episode that will empower them to pursue their passions and achieve their business goals.”

As the proud son of small business owners who’ve opened four different businesses since the mid-1970s, Moffitt kicks off the podcast’s debut episode in conversation with his parents, Bertha and Victor Moffitt. The first episode of the Imagine Success podcast explores putting a business idea into motion and also features interviews with Brit Morin and Justine Pon. Morin is a venture capitalist, serial entrepreneur and founder and CEO of Brit + Co, a modern lifestyle and education company, plus Selfmade, an educational platform that Office Depot has been a proud sponsor of since 2020, that helps female founders start and grow their own businesses. Pon is the founder of The Ponnery, an arts and crafts product company that celebrates Asian American food and culture.

Visit officedepot.com/podcast to listen to the podcast and discover innovative products and helpful services designed to support small business owners.

About Office Depot

Office Depot, LLC, an operating company of The ODP Corporation, is a leading specialty retailer providing innovative products and services delivered through a fully integrated omnichannel platform of Office Depot and OfficeMax retail stores and an award-winning online presence, OfficeDepot.com, to support the productivity and organization of its small business, home office and education clients. Office Depot is committed to enabling its clients’ success, strengthening local communities and providing equal opportunities for all. For more information, visit officedepot.com, download the Office Depot app on your iPhone or Android and follow @officedepot on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and TikTok.

Office Depot is a trademark of The Office Club, LLC. OfficeMax is a trademark of OMX, Inc. ODP and ODP Business Solutions are trademarks of ODP Business Solutions, LLC. Veyer is a trademark of Veyer, LLC. Varis is a trademark of Varis, Inc. Any other product or company names mentioned herein are the trademarks of their respective owners.

Shera Bishop
Media Relations for Office Depot
Shera.Bishop@officedepot.com

Source: Office Depot, LLC

Apple Goes Green: Tech Giant Unveils First Carbon Neutral Lineup

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

Apple just recently announced its first carbon neutral products – the new Apple Watch lineup. This achievement comes from innovations across Apple’s global supply chain over years to dramatically reduce emissions. It’s a major milestone toward Apple’s 2030 goal to make all products carbon neutral.

To become carbon neutral, Apple steeply cut watch emissions first via clean energy, recycled materials, and low-emission transportation. Any remaining emissions are addressed with high-quality carbon credits from nature-based projects like forests.

This shift demonstrates how companies can decarbonize operations and products through renewable electricity, material innovation, and carbon removal. If adopted widely, these strategies can significantly benefit the environment.

Apple’s progress was enabled by large investments in wind and solar energy. Their actions helped create over 15 gigawatts of new clean power. Scaling renewable energy is crucial for the transition away from fossil fuels.

Take a moment to look at more natural resources and mining companies by viewing Mark Reichman’s coverage list.

The company also pioneered using recycled metals and fibers in devices. This reduces the need for carbon-intensive mining and materials manufacturing. Broad adoption would lessen impacts on natural resources.

Additionally, Apple funded carbon removal through forest restoration. This supports nature-based solutions to sequester CO2. The climate impact could grow exponentially if more firms financed conservation projects.

In summary, Apple’s carbon neutral product milestone highlights the environmental promise of renewable energy, the circular economy, and carbon removal. It demonstrates the potential for these strategies to transform manufacturing, conserve natural resources, and fight climate change.

U.S. Justice Department Takes On Google Search Monopoly in Landmark Trial

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

The U.S. government is launching a monumental legal challenge against Google in a bid to curb the technology giant’s dominance in internet search. A federal antitrust trial begins Tuesday in Washington D.C. where the Justice Department and a coalition of state attorneys general will argue that Google improperly wields monopoly power.

At the heart of the case are allegations that Google unlawfully maintains its position in the search market through exclusionary distribution agreements and other anticompetitive practices. Google pays billions annually to companies like Apple and Samsung to preset Google as the default search engine on smartphones and other devices. This boxes out rivals, according to prosecutors.

The government contends that Google’s actions have suffocated competition in the critical gateway to the internet, enabling the company to extend its grasp with impunity. Google counters that its search supremacy is earned by offering a superior product that consumers freely choose, not due to illegal activity.

But smaller search upstarts like DuckDuckGo allege that Google abuses its might to hinder their ability to gain users. At stake in the trial is nothing less than how the power of dominant tech platforms is regulated and how competition – or lack of it – shapes the internet as we know it.

The verdict could lead to sweeping changes for Google if found guilty of violating antitrust law. Potential sanctions range from imposed restrictions on its business conduct to structural reorganization of the company. Fines could also be on the table.

Google’s practices echo the behavior that got Microsoft into hot water in the 1990s. That landmark case saw the government successfully prove Microsoft leveraged its Windows monopoly to quash competition. Google is accused of similar monopolistic plays via its search engine dominance.

The Google antitrust trial is slated to last around three months. Testimony from Google CEO Sundar Pichai and executives of tech firms like Apple is anticipated. The federal judge overseeing the case will determine if Google’s undisputed leadership in search equates to unlawful monopoly status.

The verdict stands to fundamentally shape Google’s role in internet search and potentially alter business practices of other dominant technology companies. It represents the most significant legal challenge to Silicon Valley power in the 21st century.

Take a look at Information Services Group, a leading global technology research and advisory firm.