Month: October 2023

Release – Orion Group Holdings Reports Third Quarter 2023 Results

Posted on by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

Research News and Market Data on ORN

Oct 25, 2023

HOUSTON, Oct. 25, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Orion Group Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: ORN) (the “Company”), a leading specialty construction company, today reported its financial results for the third quarter ended September 30, 2023.

Highlights for the quarter ended September 30, 2023:

  • Contract revenues of $168.5 million
  • GAAP net loss was $0.7 million or $0.02 per diluted share
  • Adjusted net income was $0.8 million or $0.02 per diluted share
  • Adjusted EBITDA was $9.4 million
  • Signed contract valued over $100 million with Grand Bahama Shipyard Limited (GBSL) for the turnkey design-build of the Grand Bahama Shipyard Dry Dock Replacement Project
  • Other recently awarded new contracts in both the Concrete and Marine segments for a combined total of approximately $121 million
  • Backlog and contracts awarded subsequent to quarter end totaled $920 million

See definitions and reconciliation of non-GAAP measures elsewhere in this release.

Management Commentary

“As CFO Scott Thanisch and I marked our first anniversary with Orion, we are incredibly proud of how our people have worked collaboratively to embrace change and deliver positive results,” said Travis Boone, Chief Executive Officer of Orion Group Holdings. “Backlog is a key metric and indicator of the health of the business. As of September 30, backlog stood at $878 million compared with backlog of $549 million in the prior year period. We have won several prestigious projects including the $435 million contract to build a dry dock at Pearl Harbor for the US Navy and a contract valued over $100 million with the Grand Bahama Shipyard Limited (GBSL) for the turnkey design-build of the Grand Bahama Shipyard Dry Dock Replacement Project.”

“Last quarter we told you that we expected continued improvement in profitability through the back half of the year, and we are delivering on that promise. Third-quarter Adjusted EBITDA was $9.4 million versus $3.7 million in the second quarter of 2023. While our third quarter revenue of $169 million is down year-over-year due to our exit from the Central Texas concrete business, the higher quality of our revenue is delivering improved profitability.”

“Since March, our Concrete business has been profitable and improving on an Adjusted EBITDA basis. Adjusted EBITDA margin increased from negative 1.7% to positive 2.4% year-over-year. In addition, the Concrete business was operating income positive on an unconsolidated basis in the third quarter. In Marine, we have a lot of momentum with projects won and potential future projects. There’s a tremendous amount of pent-up demand that we think will be a significant tailwind for us well into 2024 and 2025.”

“As we look ahead to the fourth quarter and beyond, we are optimistic. Our investments in business development are paying off, and we have sufficient capacity and a more disciplined approach to optimize our people and assets. We will see continued improvement in our margins and benefit from operating leverage as we grow the top line. We are excited to build on our success this year and continue growing profitably in 2024,” concluded Boone.

Third Quarter 2023 Results

Contract revenues of $168.5 million decreased 7.7% from $182.6 million in the third quarter last year, primarily due to our decision to exit the unprofitable concrete business in central Texas, partially offset by an increase in marine segment revenue related to the Pearl Harbor, Hawaii drydock project (the “Pearl Harbor Project”).

Gross profit was $19.1 million or 11.3% of revenue up from $13.4 million or 7.4% of revenue in the third quarter of 2022. The increase in gross profit dollars and margin was primarily driven by margin improvements in both segments stemming from higher quality projects and improved execution, partially offset by lower equipment and labor utilization in our dredging business.

Selling, general and administrative (“SG&A”) expenses were $17.1 million, up 11.4% from $15.4 million in the third quarter of 2022. As a percentage of total contract revenues, SG&A expenses increased to 10.2% from 8.5%, primarily due to lower revenues and an increase in SG&A in the third quarter. The increase in SG&A dollars reflected an increase in IT and business development spending and higher legal costs related to customer claims.

Net loss for the third quarter was $0.7 million or $0.02 per diluted share compared to net income of $0.2 million or $0.01 per diluted share in the third quarter of 2022.

The third quarter 2023 net loss included $1.5 million ($0.04 diluted income per share) of non-recurring items. Third quarter 2023 adjusted net income was $0.8 million ($0.02 diluted income per share).

EBITDA for the third quarter of 2023 was $8.7 million, representing a 5.2% EBITDA margin, as compared to EBITDA of $7.2 million, or a 4.0% EBITDA margin in the third quarter last year. Adjusted for non-recurring items, EBITDA for the third quarter of 2023 was $9.4 million, representing a 5.6% adjusted EBITDA margin, as compared to adjusted EBITDA for the third quarter of 2022 of $8.8 million, representing a 4.8% adjusted EBITDA margin.

Backlog

Total backlog at September 30, 2023 was $877.5 million, compared to $818.7 million at June 30, 2023 and $548.6 million at September 30, 2022. Backlog for the Marine segment was $699.9 million, compared to $614.9 million at June 30, 2023 and $280.2 million at September 30, 2022. Backlog for the Concrete segment was $177.6 million, compared to $203.8 million at June 30, 2023 and $268.4 million at September 30, 2022. In addition, the Company has been awarded $43 million in new project work subsequent to the end of the quarter ended September 30, 2022 that is not included in backlog at the end of the quarter.

Recent Wins

On September 22, the Company entered into a design-build contract valued over $100 million for its Marine and Engineering business. The contract was awarded by Grand Bahama Shipyard Limited (GBSL) for the turnkey design-build of the Grand Bahama Shipyard Dry Dock Replacement Project, situated in Grand Bahama, Bahamas. In addition, the Company was recently awarded other new contracts in both its concrete and marine segments for a combined total of approximately $121 million.

Safety Award

Orion Group Holdings, Inc. was presented with the Company Award for Leadership in Safety from the Council of Dredging and Marine Construction Safety (CDMCS). The award, presented at the 2023 CDMCS Annual Awards Dinner in Washington, D.C. on September 28, recognizes outstanding safety leadership in the dredging and marine construction industry.

Orion Group Holdings was recognized for advancing a safety-first culture through safety-conscious policies and procedures in the workplace, mentoring others in safety, training on identifying and properly controlling hazards, and placing high personal value on collaborative and proactive work toward improving safety.

Balance Sheet Update

As of September 30, 2023, current assets were $228.5 million, including unrestricted cash and cash equivalents of $3.9 million. Total debt outstanding as of September 30, 2023 was $50.3 million. At the end of the quarter, the Company had $13.5 million in outstanding borrowings under its revolving credit facility.

Conference Call Details

Orion Group Holdings will host a conference call to discuss results for the third quarter 2023 at 9:00 a.m. Eastern Time/8:00 a.m. Central Time on Thursday, October 26, 2023. To participate, please dial (800) 715-9871 and ask for the Orion Group Holdings Conference Call. A live audio webcast of the call will also be available on the Investor Relations section of Orion’s website at https://www.oriongroupholdingsinc.com/investor/ and will be archived for replay.

About Orion Group Holdings

Orion Group Holdings, Inc., a leading specialty construction company serving the infrastructure, industrial and building sectors, provides services both on and off the water in the continental United States, Alaska, Hawaii, Canada and the Caribbean Basin through its marine segment and its concrete segment. The Company’s marine segment provides construction and dredging services relating to marine transportation facility construction, marine pipeline construction, marine environmental structures, dredging of waterways, channels and ports, environmental dredging, design and specialty services. Its concrete segment provides turnkey concrete construction services including place and finish, site prep, layout, forming, and rebar placement for large commercial, structural and other associated business areas. The Company is headquartered in Houston, Texas with regional offices throughout its operating areas. The Company’s website is located at: https://www.oriongroupholdingsinc.com.

Backlog Definition

Backlog consists of projects under contract that have either (a) not been started, or (b) are in progress but are not yet complete. The Company cannot guarantee that the revenue implied by its backlog will be realized, or, if realized, will result in earnings. Backlog can fluctuate from period to period due to the timing and execution of contracts. The typical duration of the Company’s projects ranges from three to nine months on shorter projects to multiple years on larger projects. The Company’s backlog at any point in time includes both revenue it expects to realize during the next twelve-month period as well as revenue it expects to realize in future years.

Non-GAAP Financial Measures

This press release includes the financial measures “adjusted net income/loss,” “adjusted earnings/loss per share,” “EBITDA,” “Adjusted EBITDA” and “Adjusted EBITDA margin.”  These measurements are “non-GAAP financial measures” under rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission, including Regulation G. The non-GAAP financial information may be determined or calculated differently by other companies. By reporting such non-GAAP financial information, the Company does not intend to give such information greater prominence than comparable GAAP financial information. Investors are urged to consider these non-GAAP measures in addition to and not in substitute for measures prepared in accordance with GAAP.

Adjusted net income/loss and adjusted earnings/loss per share should not be viewed as an equivalent financial measure to net income/loss or earnings/loss per share. Adjusted net income/loss and adjusted earnings/loss per share exclude certain items that management believes impairs a meaningful evaluation of the Company’s financial performance. The Company believes these adjusted financial measures are a useful supplement to earnings/loss calculated in accordance with GAAP because they better inform our common stockholders as to the Company’s operational trends and performance relative to other companies. Generally, items excluded are one-time items or items whose timing or amount cannot be reasonably estimated. Accordingly, any guidance provided by the Company generally excludes information regarding these types of items.

Orion Group Holdings defines EBITDA as net income/loss before net interest expense, income taxes, depreciation and amortization. Adjusted EBITDA is calculated by adjusting EBITDA for certain items that management believes impairs a meaningful comparison of operating results. Adjusted EBITDA margin is calculated by dividing Adjusted EBITDA for the period by contract revenues for the period. The GAAP financial measure that is most directly comparable to EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA is net income, while the GAAP financial measure that is most directly comparable to Adjusted EBITDA margin is operating margin, which represents operating income divided by contract revenues. EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA margin are used internally to evaluate current operating expense, operating efficiency, and operating profitability on a variable cost basis, by excluding the depreciation and amortization expenses, primarily related to capital expenditures and acquisitions, and net interest and tax expenses. Additionally, EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA margin provide useful information regarding the Company’s ability to meet future debt service and working capital requirements while providing an overall evaluation of the Company’s financial condition. In addition, EBITDA is used internally for incentive compensation purposes. The Company includes EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA margin to provide transparency to investors as they are commonly used by investors and others in assessing performance. EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA margin have certain limitations as analytical tools and should not be used as a substitute for operating margin, net income, cash flows, or other data prepared in accordance with GAAP, or as a measure of the Company’s profitability or liquidity.

Forward-Looking Statements

The matters discussed in this press release may constitute or include projections or other forward-looking statements within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of Section 27A of the Securities Exchange Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, of which provisions the Company is availing itself. Certain forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology, such as ‘believes’, ‘expects’, ‘may’, ‘will’, ‘could’, ‘should’, ‘seeks’, ‘approximately’, ‘intends’, ‘plans’, ‘estimates’, or ‘anticipates’, or the negative thereof or other comparable terminology, or by discussions of strategy, plans, objectives, intentions, estimates, forecasts, outlook, assumptions, or goals. In particular, statements regarding future operations or results, including those set forth in this press release, and any other statement, express or implied, concerning future operating results or the future generation of or ability to generate revenues, income, net income, gross profit, EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA margin, or cash flow, including to service debt, and including any estimates, forecasts or assumptions regarding future revenues or revenue growth, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements also include project award announcements, estimated project start dates, anticipated revenues, and contract options which may or may not be awarded in the future. Forward-looking statements involve risks, including those associated with the Company’s fixed price contracts that impacts profits, unforeseen productivity delays that may alter the final profitability of the contract, cancellation of the contract by the customer for unforeseen reasons, delays or decreases in funding by the customer, levels and predictability of government funding or other governmental budgetary constraints, and any potential contract options which may or may not be awarded in the future, and are at the sole discretion of award by the customer. Past performance is not necessarily an indicator of future results. In light of these and other uncertainties, the inclusion of forward-looking statements in this press release should not be regarded as a representation by the Company that the Company’s plans, estimates, forecasts, goals, intentions, or objectives will be achieved or realized. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date hereof. The Company assumes no obligation to update information contained in this press release whether as a result of new developments or otherwise, except as required by law.

Please refer to the Company’s 2022 Annual Report on Form 10-K, filed on March 16, 2023, which is available on its website at www.oriongroupholdingsinc.com or at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov, for additional and more detailed discussion of risk factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from our current expectations, estimates or forecasts.

Contacts:

Financial Profiles, Inc.
Margaret Boyce 310-622-8247
orn@finprofiles.com

Siemens Energy’s Stock Plummets 32% as it Appeals to German Government

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

Shares of Siemens Energy took a nosedive on Thursday after the German wind power firm revealed it is seeking financial guarantees from the government to shore up its balance sheet. The company’s stock plunged over 32% amid concerns over ongoing problems at its wind turbine manufacturing subsidiary Siemens Gamesa.

This latest crisis of confidence in Siemens Energy comes after a tumultuous year where the company scrapped its profit forecasts due to major setbacks at Siemens Gamesa. Persistent quality control issues and production delays have plagued Siemens Gamesa, dragging down the parent company’s financial performance. Siemens Energy shocked investors earlier this year when it warned that these issues could persist for years.

Now Siemens Energy is looking to the German government for a lifeline to provide the guarantees it needs for long-term projects and growth ambitions. With its strong order intake and project pipeline, Siemens requires sizeable guarantees to move forward. It remains unclear exactly how much financing Siemens Energy is seeking from the government and what form this support may take. The company is holding preliminary talks with German officials, banks, and other stakeholders to find a solution.

For investors, this latest turmoil calls Siemens Energy’s financial health into question. While the company left its 2023 guidance unchanged, its stock has been battered this year. Shares are down nearly 60% year-to-date due to the cascading problems at Siemens Gamesa. The turbine troubles will continue to be a dark cloud over Siemens Energy until substantial progress is made on quality control and production. Siemens Gamesa’s issues with offshore wind ramp up also remain a glaring concern.

All of this uncertainty around Siemens Energy and its finances have sent investors rushing for the exits. But for bargain hunters, the plummeting stock could also look like a tempting buying opportunity. Siemens Energy maintains a strong long-term outlook in the booming renewable energy market. Demand for wind power is surging, especially in Europe, as countries move aggressively toward carbon neutrality. Siemens Energy still boasts an enviable portfolio of technology and intellectual property in the industry.

If Siemens Energy can weather its current storms, its future prospects in offshore and onshore wind power remain bright. But the company must fix its turbine troubles and strengthen its balance sheet to fully capture the potential ahead. For conservative investors, it may be best to wait on the sidelines until more clarity emerges. But for speculators willing to stomach volatility and risk, Siemens Energy’s swooning shares could offer a high-risk, high-reward proposition.

Much depends on whether the German government views Siemens Energy as simply too big and important to fail. Germany is staking much of its economic future on renewable energy leadership. Having a national industrial champion falter so badly would be an embarrassment and setback. Siemens Energy is essentially making the case that it’s too strategically vital for Germany’s interests to be allowed to flounder.

Yet the German government also has to be wary of setting a precedent of bailing out struggling companies at taxpayer expense. Germany may be willing to extend credit guarantees to Siemens Energy, but direct financial aid seems unlikely. The coming months will be crucial in determining if Siemens Energy can right itself and deliver on its clean energy ambitions. For investors, the ride may continue to be bumpy until the company can prove it has turned a corner.

Orion Group Holdings (ORN) – Improving on its Margins

Posted on by cpereira@noblefcm.com


Thursday, October 26, 2023

Joe Gomes, Managing Director, Equity Research Analyst, Generalist , 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.

Third Quarter Results. Revenue for Orion was $168.5 million, a 7.7% decrease from $182.6 million last year reflecting the exit of the Central Texas concrete market. Adjusted net income for the quarter was $0.8 million, or diluted EPS of $0.02, flat with last year. Adjusted EBTIDA was $9.4 million compared to $8.8 million in the previous year.

Better Margins. Although revenue decreased year-over-year, Orion showcased better margin improvement in its gross and adjusted EBITDA margins through taking higher quality projects and better execution. Gross margin improved to 11.3% from 7.4% last year and adjusted EBITDA to 5.6% from 4.8%. We believe margin improvement can continue as the Company further implements its current strategy and executes it, and puts another feather in the Company’s cap heading into the new year.


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. 

LithiumBank Resources (LBNKF) – Recent Financing Provides Flexibility to Accelerate Progress at Boardwalk and Park Place

Posted on by cpereira@noblefcm.com


Thursday, October 26, 2023

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.

Private placement oversubscribed. LithiumBank recently closed a private placement of 3,506,500 units at a price of C$1.00 per unit. Originally, the company had planned to raise C$2 million, which was later increased to C$3 million. Each unit is comprised of one common share of the company and one-half of one common share purchase warrant. Each warrant entitles the holder to purchase an additional share at a price of C$1.50 per share for a period of 24 months from the date of issuance. Coupled with over C$6 million designated for exploration, the financing provides discretionary funds to advance LithiumBank’s Boardwalk and Park Place projects and accelerate pilot plant testing with G2L Greenview Resources.

Significant insider participation. Demonstrating their own commitment and confidence in LithiumBank, insiders of the company purchased 970,000 units or 27.66% of the total units offered in the private placement. Mr. Gianni Kovacevic, Director, purchased 250,000 units, Mr. Christopher Murray, Director, purchased 250,000 units, Mr. Paul Matysek, Executive Chairman and Director purchased 150,000 units, Ms. Ekaterina Zotova, Director, purchased 150,000 units, Mr. Rob Shewchuk, CEO and Director, purchased 100,000 units, Mr. Kevin Piepgrass, COO, purchased 40,000 units, Mr. Steven Piepgrass, Director, purchased 20,000 units, and Ms. Ann Fehr, CFO, purchased 10,000 units.


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. 

Eledon Pharmaceuticals (ELDN) – C-Suite Interview With Eledon CEO Available On ChannelChek

Posted on by cpereira@noblefcm.com


Thursday, October 26, 2023

Robert LeBoyer, Senior Vice President, Equity Research Analyst, Biotechnology, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

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

Our Discussion Included Eledon’s Science, Markets, and Company Strategy.  We recently spoke with the Eledon CEO, Dr. DA Gros, as part of our C-Suite Interview Series. Our interview included the scientific principles on which tegoprubart is based, the unmet need in kidney transplantation, and the current clinical trials. Dr. Gros also discussed additional tegoprubart indications, company finances, and future milestones.

Eledon Is Pursuing An Unmet Need In Kidney Transplantation. Dr. Gros described how tegoprubart blocks a step in the immune response that has applications in many immune disorders. The first application in development is for prevention of kidney transplant rejection, where the current standard of care drugs are effective but have toxic side effects that lead to organ failure after 10 to 12 years. Tegoprubart is currently in two clinical trials for this indication.


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. 

US Economy Shows Resilience With Stronger Than Expected Q3 GDP Growth

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

The US economy demonstrated its resilience in the third quarter, with GDP growing at an annualized rate of 4.9% according to the Commerce Department. This growth rate exceeded economists’ expectations of 4.7% and represents a significant rebound from Q2’s growth of 2.1%.

The robust GDP growth was powered by strength in consumer spending, which rose 4% in Q3 after lackluster growth of just 0.8% in the previous quarter. Consumers clearly opened their wallets again over the summer despite high inflation and interest rate hikes from the Federal Reserve. With consumer spending accounting for about two-thirds of economic activity, this reacceleration was pivotal in driving overall growth.

Other factors contributing to GDP growth included business investment, government spending, exports, and inventory accumulation. Housing also provided a lift, with residential investment posting a solid 26.8% growth rate versus declines in the first half of 2023.

For investors, the better than expected GDP report signals the US economy remains on solid ground, defying recession predictions. However, risks still loom on the horizon that could derail growth. Surging inflation and the Fed’s aggressive rate hikes to contain prices remain headwinds. Ongoing geopolitical tensions, a wobbly stock market, and other challenges could also dampen economic activity going forward.

The GDP data will likely give the Fed confidence to stay the course with its tightening monetary policy. Another massive interest rate hike of 75 basis points is widely expected at next week’s FOMC meeting as the central bank keeps its foot on the brake to slow demand and curb inflation. While the economy has proven resilient so far, the delayed impact of the Fed’s actions will almost certainly be felt in the coming quarters.

For investors, resilience is the key takeaway from the Q3 GDP report in the face of tremendous uncertainty. However, resilience should not be mistaken for invincibility. Moderating consumer spending, shrinking business investment, and the full brunt of Fed tightening suggest slower growth lies ahead. While a recession may not be imminent, markets could endure further turbulence as the economy downshifts.

The path forward for investors calls for caution and patience. Sticking to a long-term perspective focused on quality is crucial, as economic slowdowns and market volatility persist. Maintaining diversification across asset classes can help smooth out the ride during turbulent times. With recession risks lingering, investors may want to emphasize defensive sectors and blue-chip companies with strong cash flows.

The Q3 GDP surprise allows investors to breathe a momentary sigh of relief. But uncertainty still prevails, and slowing growth is likely in coming quarters. Patience and prudence remain vital virtues for investors in these complicated economic times. While the US economy has shown its mettle so far, the investing environment ahead will require careful navigation.

Tech Stocks Stumble Despite Strong Earnings from Alphabet and Meta

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

Tech stocks have taken it on the chin over the past two days, with the Nasdaq tumbling nearly 3.5%, despite stellar earnings reports from two giants in the space. Alphabet and Meta both exceeded expectations with their latest quarterly results, yet saw their shares plunge amid broader concerns about economic conditions weighing on future growth.

Alphabet posted robust advertising revenues, with Google Search and YouTube continuing to hum along as profit drivers. However, its Google Cloud division came up shy of estimates, expanding at a slower pace as clients apparently pulled back on spending. This reignited worries about Alphabet’s ability to gain ground on the cloud leaders Amazon and Microsoft.

Meanwhile, Meta also topped analyst forecasts, led by better ad revenues at Facebook and Instagram. But in the earnings call, Meta CFO Susan Li warned that the conflict in the Middle East could impact advertising demand in the fourth quarter. This injected uncertainty into Meta’s outlook, leading the stock lower.

The sell-off in these tech titans reflects overall investor angst regarding the challenging macroeconomic environment. While both companies beat expectations for the just-completed quarter, lingering headwinds such as high inflation, rising interest rates, and global conflicts have markets on edge.

Details

This skittishness has erased the gains tech stocks had made earlier in the year after a dismal 2022. Meta and Alphabet remain in positive territory year-to-date, but have given back chunks of their rallies from earlier this year. Other tech firms like Amazon and Apple are also dealing with the fallout ahead of their upcoming earnings reports.

The market is taking a “sell first, ask questions later” approach with these stocks right now. Even as fundamentals remain relatively sound, any whiff of weakness or caution from management is being seized upon as a reason to sell. The slightest negative data point is exaggerated amid the unsettled backdrop.

Both Alphabet and Meta have been aggressively cutting costs after overindulging during the pandemic boom years. But investors are now laser-focused on the revenue outlook, rather than celebrating the expense discipline. If top-line growth decelerates materially, the bottom-line gains from cost reductions will be moot.

For now, the Nasdaq remains in a confirmed uptrend, so this could prove to be just a brief pullback before tech stocks regain their footing. Many firms in the sector remain highly profitable with solid balance sheets. But the risk is that slowing economic activity and consumer jitters will weigh on future earnings potential.

Tech investors may need to buckle up for more volatility ahead. The days of easy gains propelled by boundless growth and ultra-low interest rates appear to be over. Now tech companies face much more skeptical scrutiny of their business fundamentals. In an environment where growth is harder to come by, even stellar quarterly results may not be enough to pacify traders worried about what lies ahead.

Release – Fatburger and Round Table Pizza Open First Co-Branded Location

Posted on by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

Research News and Market Data on FAT

October 25, 2023

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Legendary Chains Merge for the First Time to Serve Up Burgers and Pizzas Under One Roof in Lantana, Texas

LOS ANGELES, Oct. 25, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — FAT (Fresh. Authentic. Tasty.) Brands Inc. , parent company of Fatburger, Round Table Pizza, and 16 other restaurant concepts, announces that it has officially opened its first-ever co-branded Fatburger and Round Table Pizza location in Dallas. Situated in the vibrant Lantana neighborhood, the 3,500 sq. foot restaurant offers a full-service, full-bar casual dining experience great for game day. It is the first of four co-branded Fatburger and Round Table Pizza locations planned for the greater Dallas area operated by SNM Management Group.

“We are beyond thrilled to introduce our first co-branded Fatburger and Round Table Pizza concept to Dallas,” says Taylor Wiederhorn, Chief Development Officer of FAT Brands. “This new restaurant will allow guests to enjoy the best of both brands in one space, creating a seamless experience that caters to a range of tastes. With the success Fatburger has seen co-branding with Buffalo’s Cafe and Express, we’re eager to see this new venture with Round Table Pizza flourish.”

Ever since the first Fatburger opened in Los Angeles 70 years ago, the chain has been known for its delicious, grilled-to-perfection and cooked-to-order burgers. Founder Lovie Yancey believed that a big burger with everything on it is a meal in itself; at Fatburger “everything” is not just the usual roster of toppings. Burgers can be customized with everything from bacon and eggs to chili and onion rings. In addition to its famous burgers, the Fatburger menu also includes Fat and Skinny Fries, sweet potato fries, scratch-made onion rings, Impossible™ Burgers, turkeyburgers, hand-breaded crispy chicken sandwiches, and hand-scooped milkshakes made from 100 percent real ice cream.

Since its founding, Round Table Pizza has been recognized as “Pizza Royalty™” for its homemade dough, signature three-cheese blend, and gold-standard ingredients topped to the edge. Customers can enjoy the chain’s proprietary handmade pizzas, salads, baked-to-perfection Garlic Parmesan Twists, classic and boneless wings, and more.

The new co-branded Fatburger and Round Table Pizza location is located at 3701 FM 407 Suite 600, Bartonville, Texas 76226. It is open Sunday to Thursday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Fridays and Saturdays 11 a.m. to 12 a.m. – perfect for late-night cravings.

For more information on Fatburger, please visit www.fatburger.com. For more information on Round Table Pizza, please visit www.roundtablepizza.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, quick-service, casual dining, and polished casual dining concepts around the world. The Company currently owns 18 restaurant brands: Round Table Pizza, Fatburger, Marble Slab Creamery, Johnny Rockets, Fazoli’s, Twin Peaks, Great American Cookies, Smokey Bones, Hot Dog on a Stick, Buffalo’s Cafe & Express, Hurricane Grill & Wings, Pretzelmaker, Elevation Burger, Native Grill & Wings, Yalla Mediterranean and Ponderosa and Bonanza Steakhouses, and franchises and owns over 2,300 units worldwide. For more information on FAT Brands, please visit www.fatbrands.com.

About Fatburger

An all-American, Hollywood favorite, Fatburger is a fast-casual restaurant serving big, juicy, tasty burgers, crafted specifically to each customer’s liking. With a legacy spanning 70 years, Fatburger’s extraordinary quality and taste inspire fierce loyalty amongst its fan base, which includes a number of A-list celebrities and athletes. Featuring a contemporary design and ambiance, Fatburger offers an unparalleled dining experience, demonstrating the same dedication to serving gourmet, homemade, custom-built burgers as it has since 1952 – The Last Great Hamburger Stand™. For more information, visit www.fatburger.com.

About Round Table Pizza

Inspired by the honor, valor, and revelry of the Knights of the Round Table, Round Table Pizza’s® superior pizza and commitment to quality and authenticity have earned the reputation of “Pizza Royalty™” for over 60 years. With more than 410 restaurants across the United States, Round Table celebrates community, family, and making merry. For more information, visit www.roundtablepizza.com.

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

Source: FAT Brands Inc.

Release – Entravision Announces Board Updates

Posted on by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

Research News and Market Data on EVC

October 25, 2023

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Two New Directors Join the Board

SANTA MONICA, Calif.–(BUSINESS WIRE)– Entravision (NYSE: EVC), a leading global advertising solutions, media and technology company, today announced the following updates to its Board of Directors (“the Board”), effective immediately, as part of the Company’s ongoing commitment to corporate governance practices and enhancing stockholder value:

  • Michael Christenson, Entravision’s Chief Executive Officer, was appointed as a director of the Company.
  • Lara Sweet, currently a director of MediaAlpha, Inc. and previously the Chief People Officer, Interim Chief Financial Officer, and Chief Accounting Officer and Controller of Snap Inc., was appointed as an independent director of the Company. Ms. Sweet will serve on the Audit Committee as a financial expert and on the Compensation Committee.
  • Juan Saldivar von Wuthenau, Entravision’s Chief Digital, Strategy and Accountability Officer, has resigned as a director of the Company. Mr. Saldivar will remain in his current executive role at Entravision which he has held since November 2020.

“We are pleased to welcome both Mr. Christenson and Ms. Sweet as directors, consistent with our commitment to corporate governance and periodically refreshing the Board with new perspectives, skill sets and experiences,” commented Paul Zevnik, Chair of Entravision’s Board of Directors. “We look forward to benefiting from Mr. Christenson’s extensive experience with high-growth public and private technology companies and, in conjunction with his role as CEO of the Company, building on our strategy to drive growth and stockholder value. In addition, Ms. Sweet has valuable leadership experience in finance and human resources at major technology companies. These updates align with our ongoing Board refreshment and succession planning, which includes the appointment earlier this year of Brad Bender, who brings significant digital advertising industry experience, and Tom Strickler, who added deep knowledge of the media and entertainment industry as well as significant business leadership expertise. I’d also like to thank Mr. Saldivar for his contributions to the Board over the past nine years and for remaining in his executive role as the Company continues to build value with our digital media, advertising and technology platforms.”

Mr. Saldivar added, “It has been an honor to serve as a director since 2014, while helping develop and implement the Company’s digital strategy as an external consultant since 2011 and a member of the executive team for the past three years. I believe Entravision’s future is bright and I look forward to continuing to collaborate with the Board and executive team as we advance our strategy of being a premiere global media, advertising solutions and technology company.”

Ms. Sweet has been a director of MediaAlpha, Inc., a marketing technology company that uses technology and data science to help businesses optimize their customer acquisition efforts, since the completion of its initial public offering in October 2020 and serves as the chair of its Audit Committee. In addition, Ms. Sweet serves as an advisor to private technology companies. From May 2019 to June 2021, Ms. Sweet served as the Chief People Officer at Snap Inc., a social media company and owner of the Snapchat application. Prior to that, Ms. Sweet served as Snap’s Interim Chief Financial Officer from January 2019 to May 2019, and as Chief Accounting Officer and Controller from June 2016 to September 2019. During her tenure in these roles, Ms. Sweet was integrally involved in developing and implementing best practices across Snap’s accounting and financial reporting functions, among other key initiatives. Prior to Snap, Ms. Sweet served as Controller and Chief Accounting Officer at AOL. She has also held the positions of Senior Director, External Reporting at Freddie Mac and Senior Manager, Internal Audit at Marriott International. Ms. Sweet received a B.S. in Accounting from George Mason University.

About Entravision Communications Corporation

Entravision is a global advertising solutions, media and technology company. Over the past three decades, we have strategically evolved into a digital powerhouse, expertly connecting brands to consumers in the U.S., Latin America, Europe, Asia and Africa. Our digital segment, the company’s largest by revenue, offers a full suite of end-to-end advertising services in 40 countries. We have commercial partnerships with Meta, X Corp. (formerly known as Twitter), TikTok, and Spotify, and marketers can use our Smadex and other platforms to deliver targeted advertising to audiences around the globe. In the U.S., we maintain a diversified portfolio of television and radio stations that target Hispanic audiences and complement our global digital services. Entravision remains the largest affiliate group of the Univision and UniMás television networks. Shares of Entravision Class A Common Stock trade on the NYSE under ticker: EVC. Learn more about our offerings at entravision.com or connect with us on LinkedIn and Facebook.

Christopher Young
Chief Financial Officer
Entravision
310-447-3870

Kimberly Orlando
Addo Investor Relations
310-829-5400
evc@addo.com

Source: Entravision

Release – ZyVersa Therapeutics Announces Research Published in the Peer-Reviewed Journal Diabetes Reinforcing IC 100’s Rationale for Inhibiting ASC to Attenuate Damaging Inflammation Associated with Serious Conditions Such as Obesity-related Heart Disease

Posted on by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

Research News and Market Data on ZVSA

Oct 25, 2023

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  • Paper reports that obesity exacerbates scarring of the heart’s muscular tissue (myocardial fibrosis) through recruitment of inflammasome ASC to the heart’s mitochondria, facilitating NLRP3 inflammasome assembly and activation leading to damaging inflammation
  • Obesity, which affects over 650 million adults, is a known risk factor for myocardial fibrosis which is associated with almost all heart diseases
  • ZyVersa is developing Inflammasome ASC Inhibitor IC 100, designed to inhibit formation of multiple types of inflammasomes and their associated ASC specks to attenuate initiation and perpetuation of damaging inflammation

WESTON, Fla., Oct. 25, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ZyVersa Therapeutics, Inc. (Nasdaq: ZVSA, or “ZyVersa”), a clinical stage specialty biopharmaceutical company developing first-in-class drugs for treatment of inflammatory and renal diseases, announces a publication in the peer-reviewed journal, Diabetes, demonstrating the role of ASC in myocardial fibrosis induced by obesity. ASC is an inflammasome adaptor protein that has a critical role in inflammasome activation.

In the paper titled, “Obesity enables NLRP3 activation and induces myocardial fibrosis via hyperacetylation of HADHa,” the authors performed MRIs on obese and lean people and evaluated their plasma. They also studied an animal model of obesity, with and without induced myocardial injury. Data indicate that:

  • Activated NLRP3 inflammasomes leading to increased levels of proinflammatory IL-1β and IL-18 contribute to obesity-related myocardial fibrosis in obese humans and mice.
  • Inflammasome ASC localized in the heart’s mitochondria participates in NLRP3 inflammasome formation and activation based on mouse data.
  • Inhibition of NLRP3 activation or removal of IL-1β and IL-18 abated the adverse effects on cardiac fibrosis and function in mice.

The authors concluded that these results provide new evidence for the involvement of mitochondria-localized ASC in obesity-induced cardiac fibrosis. To read the article, Click Here.

“Obesity, a well-established risk factor for cardiovascular disease, has reached pandemic proportions, and may affect up to two-thirds of the adult population in developed countries,” stated Stephen C. Glover, ZyVersa’s Co-founder, Chairman, CEO and President. “The research published in Diabetes demonstrates that ASC in the heart’s mitochondria facilitates NLRP3 inflammasome assembly and activation leading to damaging inflammation and myocardial fibrosis associated with obesity. This provides support for Inflammasome ASC Inhibitor IC 100 as a potential therapeutic option. By inhibiting ASC, IC 100 blocks formation of NLRP3 and other types of inflammasomes to block initiation of the inflammatory cascade. Likewise, IC 100 uniquely inhibits ASC specks to attenuate perpetuation of damaging inflammation.” To review a white paper summarizing the mechanism of action and preclinical data for IC 100, Click Here.

About Inflammasome ASC Inhibitor IC 100

IC 100 is a novel humanized IgG4 monoclonal antibody that inhibits the inflammasome adaptor protein ASC. IC 100 was designed to attenuate both initiation and perpetuation of the inflammatory response. It does so by binding to a specific region of the ASC component of multiple types of inflammasomes, including NLRP1, NLRP2, NLRP3, NLRC4, AIM2, Pyrin. Intracellularly, IC 100 binds to ASC monomers, inhibiting inflammasome formation, thereby blocking activation of IL-1β early in the inflammatory cascade. IC 100 also binds to ASC in ASC Specks, both intracellularly and extracellularly, further blocking activation of IL-1β and the perpetuation of the inflammatory response that is pathogenic in inflammatory diseases. Because active cytokines amplify adaptive immunity through various mechanisms, IC 100, by attenuating cytokine activation, also attenuates the adaptive immune response.

About ZyVersa Therapeutics, Inc.

ZyVersa (Nasdaq: ZVSA) is a clinical stage specialty biopharmaceutical company leveraging advanced, proprietary technologies to develop first-in-class drugs for patients with renal and inflammatory diseases who have significant unmet medical needs. The Company is currently advancing a therapeutic development pipeline with multiple programs built around its two proprietary technologies – Cholesterol Efflux Mediator™ VAR 200 for treatment of kidney diseases, and Inflammasome ASC Inhibitor IC 100, targeting damaging inflammation associated with numerous CNS and other inflammatory diseases. For more information, please visit www.zyversa.com.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements contained in this press release regarding matters that are not historical facts, are forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These include statements regarding management’s intentions, plans, beliefs, expectations, or forecasts for the future, and, therefore, you are cautioned not to place undue reliance on them. No forward-looking statement can be guaranteed, and actual results may differ materially from those projected. ZyVersa Therapeutics, Inc (“ZyVersa”) uses words such as “anticipates,” “believes,” “plans,” “expects,” “projects,” “future,” “intends,” “may,” “will,” “should,” “could,” “estimates,” “predicts,” “potential,” “continue,” “guidance,” and similar expressions to identify these forward-looking statements that are intended to be covered by the safe-harbor provisions. Such forward-looking statements are based on ZyVersa’s expectations and involve risks and uncertainties; consequently, actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied in the statements due to a number of factors, including ZyVersa’s plans to develop and commercialize its product candidates, the timing of initiation of ZyVersa’s planned preclinical and clinical trials; the timing of the availability of data from ZyVersa’s preclinical and clinical trials; the timing of any planned investigational new drug application or new drug application; ZyVersa’s plans to research, develop, and commercialize its current and future product candidates; the clinical utility, potential benefits and market acceptance of ZyVersa’s product candidates; ZyVersa’s commercialization, marketing and manufacturing capabilities and strategy; ZyVersa’s ability to protect its intellectual property position; and ZyVersa’s estimates regarding future revenue, expenses, capital requirements and need for additional financing.

New factors emerge from time-to-time, and it is not possible for ZyVersa to predict all such factors, nor can ZyVersa assess the impact of each such factor on the business or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements included in this press release are based on information available to ZyVersa as of the date of this press release. ZyVersa disclaims any obligation to update such forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date of this press release, except as required by applicable law.

This press release does not constitute an offer to sell, or the solicitation of an offer to buy, any securities.

Corporate and IR Contact:
Karen Cashmere
Chief Commercial Officer
kcashmere@zyversa.com
786-251-9641

Media Contacts
Tiberend Strategic Advisors, Inc.
Casey McDonald
cmcdonald@tiberend.com
646-577-8520

Dave Schemelia
dschemelia@tiberend.com
609-468-9325

MAIA Biotechnology (MAIA) – THIO-101 Data Update Shows Improved Disease Control Rates

Posted on by cpereira@noblefcm.com


Wednesday, October 25, 2023

MAIA is a targeted therapy, immuno-oncology company focused on the development and commercialization of potential first-in-class drugs with novel mechanisms of action that are intended to meaningfully improve and extend the lives of people with cancer. Our lead program is THIO, a potential first-in-class cancer telomere targeting agent in clinical development for the treatment of NSCLC patients with telomerase-positive cancer cells. For more information, please visit www.maiabiotech.com.

Robert LeBoyer, Senior Vice President, Equity Research Analyst, Biotechnology, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

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

ESMO Data Shows Unusually High Survival Rates. MAIA Biotechnology presented preliminary data from the THIO-101 trial in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) at the European Society for Medical Oncology conference. The disease control rate (DCR) reached 100% in second line patients compared with about 53% to 64%  for standard of care therapies. DCR for third line patients reached 88%, compared with about 30% expected. We see these results as extremely strong, and believe DCR could correlate with overall survival (OS), a primary endpoint of the trial.

Preliminary Data Shows Strong Response. The results showed a disease control rate (DCR, consisting of complete responses, partial responses, or stable disease) of 100% or 19 out of 19 patients in second line therapy and 88% or 14 out of 16 patients in third line. Published data from 74 clinical trials with standard of care therapies show 53% to 64% DCR in second line and about 30% in third line. We see this as a substantial improvement over results from standard of care therapies.


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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 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. 

Travelzoo (TZOO) – Entering A More Normalized Growth Period

Posted on by cpereira@noblefcm.com


Wednesday, October 25, 2023

Travelzoo® provides its 30 million members with exclusive offers and one-of-a-kind experiences personally reviewed by our deal experts around the globe. We have our finger on the pulse of outstanding travel, entertainment, and lifestyle experiences. We work in partnership with more than 5,000 top travel suppliers—our long-standing relationships give Travelzoo members access to irresistible deals.

Michael Kupinski, Director of Research, Equity Research Analyst, Digital, Media & Technology , Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

Jacob Mutchler, Research Associate, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

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

Upside surprise. Q3 revenue of $20.6 million, which increased 30.0% year over year, was better than our $18.9 million estimate and reflected strong revenue growth in its Europe operations (+35.5%) and North America (+27.4%). Q3 adj. EBITDA beat expectations, $3.9 million versus our $3.1 million estimate. 

Margin improvement. Adj. EBITDA margins were 18.7%, up significantly from the year earlier margins of 7.1%, reflecting the improved revenue performance and the company’s diligence on keeping costs low and its earlier significant cuts in its infrastructure footprint.    


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. 

DLH Holdings (DLHC) – Reports Key Metrics for Fiscal 2023 Year End

Posted on by cpereira@noblefcm.com


Wednesday, October 25, 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, Equity Research Analyst, Generalist , 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.

Key Metrics. Yesterday, DLH Holdings released some key metrics for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2023. The Company expects to release full audited financial results on December 6th. We will update our models following the full release.

Revenue. The preliminary 4Q23 revenue estimate is $100 million, which would be below our $103 million estimate and the $104 million consensus estimate, up from $67.2 million in 4Q22. The increase was driven by the GRSi acquisition. The legacy contract portfolio grew modestly. We believe the slow roll out of work under recently won ID/IQs negatively impacted quarterly revenue growth. 


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.