Release – Bowlero Completes $432.9 Million Sale-Leaseback With Vici Properties

Posted on October 20, 2023October 20, 2023 by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

10/19/2023

Significant Capital Raise will be Used to Continue Growth Plan

RICHMOND, Va.–(BUSINESS WIRE)– Bowlero Corp. (NYSE: BOWL) (“Bowlero”), the global leader in bowling entertainment, today completed a transaction with VICI Properties Inc. (“VICI”) relating to the transfer of land and real estate assets of 38 Bowling Entertainment Centers across 17 states for aggregate value of $432.9 million. The transaction was structured as a tax-deferred capital contribution, and proceeds are expected to be used to accelerate new builds, deploy capital into acquisitions and conversions, return capital to shareholders, pay down a portion of Bowlero’s debt, and for general corporate purposes.

Bowlero entered into a triple-net master lease agreement with VICI (the “Lease”). The Lease will have an initial total annual rent of $31.6 million, representing an acquisition cap rate of 7.3%, and an initial term of 25 years, with six 5-year tenant renewal options. Rent under the Lease will escalate at the greater of 2.0% or CPI (subject to a 2.5% ceiling). Bowlero expects the Lease to be treated as a long-term lease obligation with no effect on EBITDA.

Thomas Shannon, Chairman, Founder and CEO of Bowlero, said, “This transaction marks the beginning of a long-term, valuable partnership with VICI. John, David and team have been fantastic partners, and the support of VICI’s capital gives us the firepower to continue advancing our strategic directives. We look forward to growing the relationship over the coming years.”

Brett Parker, Executive Vice Chairman of Bowlero, said, “We are executing on accretive strategies that drive our growth. With this transaction, we also extended the duration and diversified the sources of our capital, strengthening our overall financial position. Bowlero has a long runway of opportunities with returns far in excess of our cost of capital across all growth vectors in the bowling entertainment space. We look forward to investing in additional opportunities to move our business forward and will continue to utilize sale-leasebacks to drive growth at an efficient cost of capital.”

Wells Fargo acted as exclusive financial advisor and Jones Day served as legal advisor to Bowlero on the transaction.

About Bowlero Corp.

Bowlero is the global leader in bowling entertainment. With approximately 350 bowling centers across North America, Bowlero serves more than 30 million guests each year through a family of brands that includes Bowlero, Lucky Strike, AMF and Bowl America. In 2019, Bowlero acquired the Professional Bowlers Association, the major league of bowling, which boasts thousands of members and millions of fans across the globe. For more information on Bowlero., please visit BowleroCorp.com

Forward Looking Statements

Some of the statements contained in this press release are forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, that involve risk, assumptions and uncertainties, such as statements of our plans, objectives, expectations, intentions and forecasts. These forward-looking statements are generally identified by the use of words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “confident,” “continue,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “likely,” “may,” “plan,” “possible,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “should,” “target,” “will,” “would” and, in each case, their negative or other various or comparable terminology. These forward-looking statements reflect our views with respect to future events as of the date of this release and are based on our management’s current expectations, estimates, forecasts, projections, assumptions, beliefs and information. Although management believes that the expectations reflected in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that these expectations will prove to have been correct. All such forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties, many of which are outside of our control, and could cause future events or results to be materially different from those stated or implied in this document. It is not possible to predict or identify all such risks. These risks include, but are not limited to: our ability to design and execute our business strategy; changes in consumer preferences and buying patterns; our ability to compete in our markets; the occurrence of unfavorable publicity; risks associated with long-term non-cancellable leases for our centers; our ability to retain key managers; risks associated with our substantial indebtedness and limitations on future sources of liquidity; our ability to carry out our expansion plans; our ability to successfully defend litigation brought against us; our ability to adequately obtain, maintain, protect and enforce our intellectual property and proprietary rights and claims of intellectual property and proprietary right infringement, misappropriation or other violation by competitors and third parties; failure to hire and retain qualified employees and personnel; the cost and availability of commodities and other products we need to operate our business; cybersecurity breaches, cyber-attacks and other interruptions to our and our third-party service providers’ technological and physical infrastructures; catastrophic events, including war, terrorism and other conflicts; public health emergencies and pandemics, such as COVID-19 pandemic, or natural catastrophes and accidents; changes in the regulatory atmosphere and related private sector initiatives; fluctuations in our operating results; economic conditions, including the impact of increasing interest rates, inflation and recession; and other factors described under the section titled “Risk Factors” in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) by the Company on September 11, 2023, as well as other filings that the Company will make, or has made, with the SEC, such as Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and Current Reports on Form 8-K. These factors should not be construed as exhaustive and should be read in conjunction with the other cautionary statements that are included in this press release and in other filings. We expressly disclaim any obligation to publicly update or review any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as required by applicable law.

For Media:
Bowlero Corp. Public Relations
PR@BowleroCorp.com

For Investors:
Bowlero Corp. Investor Relations
IRSupport@BowleroCorp.com

Source: Bowlero Corp

Bowlero (BOWL) – Significant Cash Haul; Unrecognized Real Estate Portfolio

Posted on October 20, 2023October 20, 2023 by cpereira@noblefcm.com

Friday, October 20, 2023

Bowlero Corp. is the worldwide leader in bowling entertainment, media, and events. With more than 300 bowling centers across North America, Bowlero Corp. serves more than 26 million guests each year through a family of brands that includes Bowlero, Bowlmor Lanes, and AMF. In 2019, Bowlero Corp. acquired the Professional Bowlers Association, the major league of bowling, which boasts thousands of members and millions of fans across the globe. For more information on Bowlero Corp., please visit BowleroCorp.com.

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.

Asset sale-leaseback. On October 19, the company completed the sale-leaseback of 38 bowling centers across 17 states to Vici Properties in exchange for $432.9 million. Notably, the agreement is structured as a 25 year lease with an initial annual rent of $31.6 million. In our view, the favorable transaction should allow for an acceleration of company growth initiatives and debt reduction.

Terms of the agreement. The 25 year lease will increase from the initial amount of $31.6 million by a minimum of 2% and a maximum of 2.5% annually, equating to an acquisition cap rate of 7.3%. The lease agreement stipulates the lessee pays all expenses of the property in addition to rent, and should be treated as a long-term lease, which should have no impact on EBITDA.

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

*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.

Small Cap, Big Potential: Capitalizing on The Widening Valuation Gap

Posted on October 20, 2023October 20, 2023 by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

As we progress through earnings season, a concerning trend is becoming more apparent – the widening valuation gap between small and large cap companies. Across sectors like biotech, construction, media and more, large cap stocks are trading at significantly higher valuation multiples compared to their small and mid cap peers. For long-term investors, this divergence could signal an opportunity to start positioning in overlooked parts of the market.

Valuation refers to the process of determining the current worth of an asset or company. The most common valuation metric used by investors is the price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio. This compares a company’s current stock price to its earnings per share, giving a sense of how much investors are willing to pay for each dollar of earnings.

Typically, investors are willing to pay higher multiples for larger companies perceived as higher quality investments. However, the gap in P/E ratios between large caps and small caps has expanded dramatically over the past year. The sizable disparity between the two classes is the largest it has been in over 20 years.

For example, Pfizer trades around 13x forward earnings expectations. But the average forward P/E for biotech stocks with market caps under $500 million is only 5x. This means investors are valuing each dollar of Pfizer’s earnings twice as highly as the average small cap biotech peer.

We see similar trends in other sectors. In construction & engineering, Jacobs Engineering trades at 25x forward earnings versus under 10x for small cap marine construction firms like Orion Group Holdings and Great Lakes Dredge & Dock. Media giants like Disney (14x) and Fox Corp (11x) also command far higher valuations than small cap peers like Direct Digital Media (DRCT), Entravision (EVC), or Townsquare Media (TSQ).

What explains this growing divergence in how the market is pricing future earnings potential?

For one, large cap companies often have broader business diversification that allows them to navigate volatile economic conditions. Pfizer’s COVID vaccine gave revenues a shot in the arm during the pandemic. Meanwhile, smaller biotechs with narrower clinical pipelines carry more binary risk around drug development outcomes.

Bigger balance sheets also provide an advantage. Large caps can leverage financial strength to pursue acquisitions, ramp up buybacks and maintain dividends during downturns. With higher cash reserves and access to capital, they are better equipped to weather tightening financial conditions.

Many large caps also benefit from durable competitive advantages like strong branding, pricing power, high barriers to entry and economies of scale. This allows them to consistently deliver high returns on invested capital and cash flows sought by investors.

Smaller companies tend to deliver more volatile financial results. They lack established competitive positions and have less excess cash. Weaker balance sheets increase vulnerability to supply chain disruptions, rising input costs and tight financing conditions.

While these factors help explain higher valuations for large caps, the magnitude of the gap suggests investors may be overlooking the long-term potential of small and micro cap stocks.

Though more volatile, smaller companies offer greater growth potential. They can deliver exponential returns if new innovations gain traction or they carve out niche industry positions. With valuations already compressed, their risk/reward profiles appear skewed to the upside.

Noble Capital Markets’ Director of Research, Michael Kupinski states in his Q3 2023 Media Sector Review, “We believe that there is higher risk in the small cap stocks, especially given that some companies may not be cash flow positive, have capital needs, or have limited share float. But investors seem to have thrown the baby out with the bathwater. While those small cap stocks are on the more speculative end of the scale, many small cap stocks are growing revenues and cash flow, have capable balance sheets, and/or are cash flow positive. For attractive emerging growth companies, the trading activity will resolve itself over time. Some market strategists suggest that small cap stocks trade at the most undervalued in the market, as much as a 30% to 40% discount to fair value.”

Astute investors know that future unicorns often hide among today’s small and micro caps. Many current large cap leaders like Apple, Amazon and Tesla began as small companies trading at single digit earnings multiples. Yet these stocks generated huge returns for early investors.

Just because a company is small does not necessarily mean it is distressed. Many smaller firms boast solid fundamentals and growth drivers that are simply not apparent to short-term traders. Their lower valuations present a compelling entry point for long-term investors.

While large caps will remain a core portfolio holding for many, today’s environment presents a unique opportunity. The extreme valuation divergence has created asymmetric upside potential in overlooked small cap names. As legendary investor Warren Buffett said, “Be fearful when others are greedy and greedy when others are fearful.”

Digging Deeper into Valuation Metrics

When assessing valuation gaps between small and large caps, it helps to look beyond simple price-to-earnings ratios. Other useful metrics can provide additional context on relative value.

For example, the price-to-sales (P/S) ratio compares a company’s market capitalization to total revenue. High growth companies with minimal earnings often trade at elevated P/S multiples. However, small caps today trade at an average P/S ratio of just 0.7x versus 2.3x for large caps. Again, a sizable gap that favors small companies.

Enterprise value to EBITDA (EV/EBITDA) is another meaningful valuation yardstick. By incorporating debt levels and focusing on cash profits, EV/EBITDA provides a more holistic view of a company’s valuation. Currently, small caps trade at an average forward EV/EBITDA of 6x – roughly half that of large cap peers.

Across an array of valuation metrics, small and mid caps trade at substantial discounts relative to large caps. This suggests underlying fundamentals and growth prospects may not be fully reflected in their beaten-down share prices.

Small Cap Opportunities Across Industries

While small caps appear broadly undervalued, some industries stand out as particularly compelling hunting grounds.

For example, junior mining stocks have been ravaged during the recent crypto/tech selloff. But with inflation soaring and geopolitical tensions rising, demand for precious metals should strengthen. Many miners are generating robust cash flows at today’s elevated commodity prices. Yet their shares trade at deep discounts to book value.

Biotech is another area laden with small cap opportunities. Developing novel drugs carries substantial risk, so setbacks in clinical trials can decimate share prices. However, the sector remains ripe for M&A. Larger pharmas need to replenish pipelines, providing takeout potential. Investors can balance risks via diversification across promising development stage companies.

Oil and gas producers offer further value among small energy firms. Strong demand and restricted supply has sent oil prices surging. Many smaller E&Ps focused on prolific shale basins sport attractive cash flows and reserves value. Yet their shares lag larger counterparts, despite superior growth outlooks.

The bottom line is that while risks are higher with small caps, their depressed valuations provide a margin of safety. Reward far exceeds risk for selective investors focused on fundamentals.

Mitigating Volatility

Small caps carry well-known risks, including elevated volatility. Information flow and analyst coverage is more sparse for smaller companies. Major drawdowns can rattle investor nerves and sink long-term performance if not adequately prepared for. Resources like Channelchek is a great tool to help provide data to investors in the small cap space.

Based on your age, time horizon, and risk tolerance, here are some tips to mitigate volatility while still capturing small cap upside:

Maintain reasonable portfolio allocation – small and microcaps should represent a smaller portion of your equity holdings
Diversify across sectors, industries and market caps to smooth volatility
Maintain a long-term mindset – don’t panic sell on temporary declines

With prudent risk controls, small caps can boost portfolio returns while diversifying away from large cap shares. Their more attractive valuations provide a compelling opportunity during these volatile times.

“In the equity markets history tends to repeat itself. At some point the smart money will start allocating more portfolio weight into these undervalued equities, which will narrow this historic valuation gap, offering potential for above average returns for small and microcaps,” said Nico Pronk, CEO of Noble Capital Markets.

Release – Direct Digital Holdings to Report Third Quarter 2023 Financial Results

Posted on October 19, 2023October 19, 2023 by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

Research News and Market Data on DRCT

October 19, 2023 9:00am EDT

HOUSTON, Oct. 19, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — Direct Digital Holdings, Inc. (Nasdaq: DRCT) (“Direct Digital Holdings” or the “Company”), a leading advertising and marketing technology platform operating through its companies Colossus Media, LLC (“Colossus SSP”), Huddled Masses LLC (“Huddled Masses”) and Orange142, LLC (“Orange142”), today announced that the Company will report financial results for the third quarter of fiscal year 2023 ended September 30, 2023 on Thursday, November 9, 2023 after the U.S. stock market closes.

Management will host a conference call and webcast on the same day at 5:00 PM ET to discuss the results. The live webcast and replay can be accessed at https://ir.directdigitalholdings.com/.

About Direct Digital Holdings

Direct Digital Holdings (Nasdaq: DRCT), owner of operating companies Colossus SSP, Huddled Masses, and Orange 142, brings state-of-the-art sell- and buy-side advertising platforms together under one umbrella company. Direct Digital Holdings’ sell-side platform, Colossus SSP, offers advertisers of all sizes extensive reach within general market and multicultural media properties. The Company’s subsidiaries Huddled Masses and Orange142 deliver significant ROI for middle market advertisers by providing data-optimized programmatic solutions at scale for businesses in sectors that range from energy to healthcare to travel to financial services. Direct Digital Holdings’ sell- and buy-side solutions manage on average over 136,000 clients monthly, generating approximately 250 billion impressions per month across display, CTV, in-app and other media channels.

Contacts:
Investors:
Brett Milotte, ICR
Brett.Milotte@icrinc.com

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/direct-digital-holdings-to-report-third-quarter-2023-financial-results-301961236.html

SOURCE Direct Digital Holdings

Released October 19, 2023

Release – Kratos Awarded $16 Million+ Contract for Avionics Trainers for the Australian Defence Force (ADF)

Posted on October 19, 2023October 19, 2023 by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

Research News and Market Data on KTOS

October 19, 2023 at 8:00 AM EDT

PDF Version

SAN DIEGO, Oct. 19, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. (Nasdaq: KTOS), a Technology Company in the Defense, National Security and Global Markets, announced today that it was awarded a contract for three aviation trainers, one Kratos UH-60M Black Hawk Avionics Trainer (BHAT) and two Kratos UH-60M Maintenance Blended Reconfigurable Aviation Trainers (MBRAT).

The contract, valued at $16,917,796, is a Foreign Military Sales award issued by the United States Army’s Program Executive Office (PEO) Aviation Utility Project Office. The end customer is the Australian Defence Force (ADF) Rotary Wing Aircraft Maintenance School (RAMS) located at the Army Aviation Centre, Swartz Barracks, Oakey, Queensland Australia.

The three UH-60M avionics trainers will become part of the ADF’s new UH-60M maintenance training capability and complement the existing Kratos CH-47F avionics trainer at RAMS. As Jose Diaz, Sr. Vice President, Kratos Training Solutions, stated: “The ADF’s future Blackhawk avionics maintenance technicians will train on a suite of cutting-edge devices that combine the Blackhawk airframe with simulated avionics systems for a combined hands-on and virtually immersive training experience.”

The devices can enhance operational readiness and enable cost effectiveness by allowing students to grasp concepts and practice skills more quickly, reducing the overall time spent on training and away from operating units.

The UH-60M MBRAT is a full-task trainer of all avionics systems that invokes a virtual immersive environment and spatial physical awareness.

The UH-60M BHAT is a High-Fidelity Hands On Training System (HOTS) that provides full task training through simulation of all avionics systems in a fully integrated configuration within a complete immersive physical environment.

About Kratos Defense & Security Solutions
Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. (NASDAQ: KTOS) is a Technology Company that develops and fields transformative, affordable systems, products and solutions for United States National Security, our allies and global commercial enterprises. At Kratos, Affordability is a Technology, and Kratos is changing the way breakthrough technology is rapidly brought to market – at a low cost – with actual products, systems and technologies rather than slide decks or renderings. Through proven commercial and venture capital backed approaches, including proactive, internally funded research and streamlined development processes, Kratos is focused on being First to Market with our solutions, well in advance of competition. Kratos is the recognized Technology Disruptor in our core market areas, including Space and Satellite Communications, Cyber Security and Warfare, Unmanned Systems, Rocket and Hypersonic Systems, Next-Generation Jet Engines and Propulsion Systems, Microwave Electronics, C5ISR and Virtual and Augmented Reality Training Systems. For more information, visit www.KratosDefense.com.

Notice Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
Certain statements in this press release may constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements are made on the basis of the current beliefs, expectations, and assumptions of the management of Kratos and are subject to significant risks and uncertainty. Investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements. All such forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made, and Kratos undertakes no obligation to update or revise these statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Although Kratos believes that the expectations reflected in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, these statements involve many risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from what may be expressed or implied in these forward-looking statements. For a further discussion of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ from those expressed in these forward-looking statements, as well as risks relating to the business of Kratos in general, see the risk disclosures in the Annual Report on Form 10-K of Kratos for the year ended December 25, 2022, and in subsequent reports on Forms 10-Q and 8-K and other filings made with the SEC by Kratos.

Press Contact:
Yolanda White
858-812-7302 Direct
Investor Information:
877-934-4687
investor@kratosdefense.com

Source: Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc.

Release – Promising Preclinical Narazaciclib Data Presented At MCL Meeting

Posted on October 19, 2023October 19, 2023 by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

Research News and Market Data on ONTX

Oct 19, 2023

PDF Version

Data for Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) presented in Ireland on Oct. 7, 2023
Additional studies support broad potential, especially in cyclin-dependent cancers

NEWTOWN, Pa., Oct. 19, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Onconova Therapeutics, Inc. (NASDAQ: ONTX), (“Onconova”, the “Company”), a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on discovering and developing novel products for patients with cancer, today announced that one of the Company’s scientific collaborators, Gaël Roué, Ph.D., from the Josep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute, Spain, made a podium presentation during the European MCL Network Annual Meeting in Dublin, Ireland on October 7, 2023 regarding promising ongoing preclinical studies of narazaciclib, in combination with ibrutinib and other targeted therapies used in the treatment for mantle cell lymphoma.

“Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) is an aggressive and devastating disease, marked by frequent relapses and poor prognosis. The biology of MCL is very interesting to Onconova because of the link to cyclin D1 (CD1) overexpression. Onconova’s proprietary multi-kinase inhibitor, narazaciclib, has nanomolar potency across a range of targets including CD1. We believe this molecular feature could make MCL amenable to treatment combinations that include narazaciclib,” said Steven Fruchtman, M.D., President and CEO of Onconova. “Dr. Roué’s recent work expands the dataset regarding the potential use of narazaciclib in combination with ibrutinib and other targeted therapies in sensitive and resistant MCL cell lines. Together, these data provide a foundation of support for using narazaciclib in MCL and other cyclin-dependent indications. We look forward to incorporating these important findings into the development plan for narazaciclib as we advance the clinical program, led by the Phase 1/2a study in patients with LGEEC.”

Onconova plans to provide an update on the Phase 1/2a clinical program with narazaciclib in patients with low grade endometriod endometrial cancer (LGEEC), including topline safety, pharmacology data, and selection of a recommended Phase 2 dose, in Q4 2023.

Data featured in the presentation in Dublin and in a prior presentation at the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) Annual Meeting in April of 2023 outlined promising results from preclinical studies that compared combinations of narazaciclib and other approved CDK4/6 inhibitors with ibrutinib and other next-generation BTK inhibitors to assess potential treatment synergies. Data from the combination of narazaciclib and ibrutinib showed significant synergistic anti-tumor activity in both sensitive and ibrutinib-resistant MCL models.

About Onconova Therapeutics, Inc.

Onconova Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on discovering and developing novel products for patients with cancer. The Company’s product candidates, narazaciclib and rigosertib, are proprietary targeted anti-cancer agents designed to disrupt specific cellular pathways that are important for cancer cell proliferation.

Narazaciclib, Onconova’s novel, multi-kinase inhibitor (formerly ON 123300), is being evaluated in a Phase 1/2 combination trial with the estrogen blocker letrozole, in advanced endometrial cancer (NCT05705505). Based on preclinical and clinical studies of CDK 4/6 inhibitors, Onconova believes narazaciclib has broad potential and is also evaluating opportunities for combination studies with narazaciclib and letrozole in additional indications, including breast cancer.

Rigosertib is being studied in an investigator-sponsored trial strategy to evaluate the product candidate in multiple indications, including a dose-escalation and expansion Phase 1/2a study of oral rigosertib in combination with nivolumab in patients with KRAS+ non-small cell lung cancer (NCT04263090), a Phase 2 program evaluating oral or IV rigosertib monotherapy in advanced squamous cell carcinoma complicating recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (RDEB-associated SCC) (NCT03786237, NCT04177498), and a Phase 2 trial evaluating rigosertib in combination with pembrolizumab in patients with metastatic melanoma (NCT05764395).

For more information, please visit www.onconova.com.

Forward Looking Statements

Some of the statements in this release are forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, and involve risks and uncertainties. These statements relate to Onconova’s expectations regarding its clinical development and trials, its product candidates, its business and financial position. Onconova has attempted to identify forward-looking statements by terminology including “believes,” “estimates,” “anticipates,” “expects,” “plans,” “intends,” “may,” “could,” “might,” “will,” “should,” “preliminary,” “encouraging,” “approximately” or other words that convey uncertainty of future events or outcomes. Although Onconova believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable as of the date made, expectations may prove to have been materially different from the results expressed or implied by such forward looking statements. These statements are only predictions and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors, including the success and timing of Onconova’s clinical trials, investigator-initiated trials and regulatory agency and institutional review board approvals of protocols, Onconova’s collaborations, market conditions and those discussed under the heading “Risk Factors” in Onconova’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and quarterly reports on Form 10-Q. Any forward-looking statements contained in this release speak only as of its date. Onconova undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements contained in this release to reflect events or circumstances occurring after its date or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.

Company Contact:
Mark Guerin
Onconova Therapeutics, Inc.
267-759-3680
ir@onconova.us
https://www.onconova.com/contact/

Investor Contact:
Bruce Mackle
LifeSci Advisors, LLC
646-889-1200
bmackle@lifesciadvisors.com

Release – Labrador Gold Receives Permits to Drill Targets in the Gap and Kingsway South

Posted on October 19, 2023October 19, 2023 by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

Research News and Market Data on NKOSF

Labrador Gold Receives Permits to Drill Targets in the Gap and Kingsway South

October 19, 2023 07:30 ET

TORONTO, Oct. 19, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Labrador Gold Corp. (TSX.V:LAB | OTCQX:NKOSF | FNR: 2N6) (“LabGold” or the “Company”) is pleased to announce that it has received all permits required for drilling two target areas along the prospective Appleton Fault Zone at its 100% owned Kingsway Project.

LabGold has received permits to drill The Gap, located between Big Vein and Pristine and the area between Big Vein and the southern property boundary (Kingsway South).

The Gap extends approximately 700 metres along the Appleton Fault Zone between Big Vein and Pristine, two occurrences where LabGold discovered high grade near surface gold. Both occurrences remain open to the northeast and southwest and the aim of drilling The Gap is to extend Pristine to the Southwest and Big Vein to the northeast and possibly connect the two. Should this be achieved, the total strike length would be approximately 1.7 kilometres. Drilling from Big Vein will step out along the Black Shale North Fault, a NNE trending splay off the Appleton Fault, that is associated with gold at Big Vein. Likewise, drilling from Pristine will step out to the southwest along the Disco Fault.

The Kingsway South area includes the recently discovered Knobby occurrence, located 1.1 kilometres southwest of Big Vein, and from which grab samples returned gold values from below detection (<5ppb) to 30.58 g/t including samples grading 2.7g/t and 29.19 g/t Au (See news release dated August 14, 2023). Knobby consists of three parallel quartz veins that have been traced along strike for approximately 200 metres. Stibnite mineralization was observed in the quartz veins.

“We have been waiting to drill targets at The Gap and Kingsway South along the Appleton Fault Zone and are pleased to have the permits in place to be able to do so. Knobby is a priority target since the east-west strike crosscuts the regional northeast trend like structures known to host high-grade gold in quartz veins elsewhere in the district. This trend differs from those at Big Vein, Pristine and Dropkick which are closer to the stratigraphic trend and represents a new target at Kingsway, one that we are excited to begin testing,” said Roger Moss, President and CEO of LabGold.

Figure 1. LabGold discoveries along the Appleton Fault Zone.

Figure 2. Plan map of The Gap with structure and geochemical anomalies.
Abbreviations: AFZ Appleton Fault Zone; BSNF Black Shale North Fault; DF Disco Fault

Figure 3. Geochemical anomalies along the Appleton Fault Zone at Kingsway South.

Qualified Person

Roger Moss, PhD., P.Geo., President and CEO of LabGold, a Qualified Person in accordance with Canadian regulatory requirements as set out in NI 43-101, has read and approved the scientific and technical information that forms the basis for the disclosure contained in this release.

The Company gratefully acknowledges the Newfoundland and Labrador Ministry of Natural Resources’ Junior Exploration Assistance (JEA) Program for its financial support for exploration of the Kingsway property.

About Labrador Gold
Labrador Gold is a Canadian based mineral exploration company focused on the acquisition and exploration of prospective gold projects in Eastern Canada.

Labrador Gold’s flagship property is the 100% owned Kingsway project in the Gander area of Newfoundland. The three licenses comprising the Kingsway project cover approximately 12km of the Appleton Fault Zone which is associated with numerous gold occurrences in the region. Infrastructure in the area is excellent located just 18km from the town of Gander with road access to the project, nearby electricity and abundant local water. LabGold is drilling a projected 100,000 metres targeting high-grade epizonal gold mineralization along the Appleton Fault Zone with encouraging results. The Company has approximately $10 million in working capital and is well funded to carry out the planned program.

The Hopedale property covers much of the Florence Lake greenstone belt that stretches over 60 km. The belt is typical of greenstone belts around the world but has been underexplored by comparison. Work to date by Labrador Gold show gold anomalies in rocks, soils and lake sediments over a 3 kilometre section of the northern portion of the Florence Lake greenstone belt in the vicinity of the known Thurber Dog gold showing where grab samples assayed up to 7.8g/t gold. In addition, anomalous gold in soil and lake sediment samples occur over approximately 40 km along the southern section of the greenstone belt. Labrador Gold now controls approximately 40km strike length of the Florence Lake Greenstone Belt.

The Company has 170,009,979 common shares issued and outstanding and trades on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol LAB.

For more information please contact:

Roger Moss, President and CEO Tel: 416-704-8291

Or visit our website at: www.labradorgold.com

Twitter: @LabGoldCorp

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

Forward-Looking Statements: This news release contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties, which may cause actual results to differ materially from the statements made. When used in this document, the words “may”, “would”, “could”, “will”, “intend”, “plan”, “anticipate”, “believe”, “estimate”, “expect” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Such statements reflect our current views with respect to future events and are subject to risks and uncertainties. Many factors could cause our actual results to differ materially from the statements made, including those factors discussed in filings made by us with the Canadian securities regulatory authorities. Should one or more of these risks and uncertainties, such as actual results of current exploration programs, the general risks associated with the mining industry, the price of gold and other metals, currency and interest rate fluctuations, increased competition and general economic and market factors, occur or should assumptions underlying the forward looking statements prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described herein as intended, planned, anticipated, or expected. We do not intend and do not assume any obligation to update these forward-looking statements, except as required by law. Shareholders are cautioned not to put undue reliance on such forward-looking statements.

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September Sees Record Lows in Home Sales

Posted on October 19, 2023October 19, 2023 by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

The US housing market continues to show signs of a significant downturn, with existing home sales in September dropping to the slowest pace since October 2010. This marks a 15.4% decline compared to September 2022, according to new data from the National Association of Realtors (NAR).

The sharp drop in home sales highlights how rising mortgage rates and declining affordability are severely impacting the housing market. The average 30-year fixed mortgage rate now sits around 8%, more than double what it was just a year ago. This rapid surge in borrowing costs has priced many buyers out of the market, especially first-time homebuyers.

Only 27% of September home sales went to first-time buyers, well below the historical norm of 40%. Many simply cannot afford today’s high home prices and mortgage payments. As a result, sales activity has fallen dramatically. The current sales pace of 3.96 million units annualized is down markedly from over 6 million just two years ago, when rates were around 3%.

At the same time, inventory remains extremely tight. There were just 1.13 million existing homes available for sale at the end of September, an over 8% decline from last year. This persistent shortage of homes for sale continues to put upward pressure on prices. The median sales price in September hit $394,300, up 2.8% from a year ago.

While higher prices are squeezing buyers, they are not denting demand enough to significantly expand inventory. Many current homeowners are reluctant to sell and give up their ultra-low mortgage rates. This dynamic is keeping the market undersupplied, even as sales cool.

Not all buyers are impacted equally by higher rates. Sales have held up better on the upper end of the market, while declining sharply for mid-priced and affordable homes. This divergence reflects that high-end buyers often have more financial flexibility, including the ability to purchase in cash.

All-cash sales represented 29% of transactions in September, up notably from 22% a year earlier. Wealthier buyers with financial assets can better absorb higher borrowing costs. In contrast, first-time buyers and middle-income Americans are being squeezed the most by rate hikes.

Looking ahead, the housing slowdown is likely to persist and potentially worsen. Mortgage applications are now at their lowest level since 1995, signaling very weak demand ahead. And while inflation has eased slightly, the Federal Reserve is still expected to continue raising interest rates further to combat it.

Higher rates mean reduced affordability and housing activity, especially if home prices remain elevated due to limited inventory. This perfect storm in the housing market points to significant headwinds for the broader economy going forward.

The housing sector has historically been a key driver of economic growth in the US. But with sales and construction activity slowing substantially, it may act as a drag on GDP growth in coming quarters. Combined with declining affordability, fewer homes being purchased also means less spending on furniture, renovations, and other housing-related items.

Some analysts believe the Fed’s aggressive rate hikes will ultimately tip the economy into a recession. The depth of the housing market downturn so far this year does not bode well from a macroeconomic perspective. It signals households are pulling back materially on major purchases, which could contribute to a broader economic contraction.

While no significant recovery is expected in the near-term, lower demand could eventually help rebalance the market. As sales moderate, competitive bidding may ease, taking some pressure off prices. And if economic conditions worsen substantially, the Fed may again reverse course on interest rates. But for now, the housing sector appears poised for more weakness ahead. Homebuyers and investors should brace for ongoing volatility and uncertainty.

Release – Tonix Pharmaceuticals Presents Data from its Horsepox-Based Vaccine Development Platform at the World Vaccine Congress Europe

Posted on October 19, 2023October 19, 2023 by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

Research News and Market Data on TNXP

October 19, 2023 7:00am EDTDownload as PDF

Preclinical Data Demonstrate Attenuation of TNX‐801 (horsepox live virus vaccine) Compared to Modern Vaccinia Vaccines

TNX-801 is in Preclinical Development as a Novel Vaccine to Protect Against Smallpox and Mpox

CHATHAM, N.J., Oct. 19, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Tonix Pharmaceuticals Holding Corp. (Nasdaq: TNXP), a biopharmaceutical company with marketed products and a pipeline of development candidates, presented data on its horsepox-based live virus vaccine platform in an oral presentation at the World Vaccine Congress Europe being held in Barcelona, Spain, October 16-19, 2023. A copy of the Company’s presentation is available under the Scientific Presentations tab of the Tonix website at www.tonixpharma.com.

“Tonix’s horsepox-based live virus vaccine platform is designed to help protect against emerging infectious diseases by engaging T cell responses, which have the potential to provide durable protection and block forward transmission,” said Seth Lederman, M.D., Chief Executive Officer of Tonix Pharmaceuticals. “In addition, we believe horsepox-based vaccines can be widely deployed without the need for sterile injection or ultra-cold shipping and storage. Our lead vaccine candidate, TNX-801¹, is in development to protect against Mpox (monkeypox) and smallpox. Tonix’s TNX-801 is based on the sequence of a natural field isolate.^2,3 Molecular analysis suggests that TNX-801 is closer than modern smallpox vaccines to the vaccine discovered and disseminated by Dr. Edward Jenner in 1798^4-6. Archaic smallpox vaccines based on horsepox were used in the U.S. and Europe to successfully control smallpox in the Nineteenth Century.”^4,7-9

The presentation, titled, “A Novel Mpox Vaccine (Horsepox virus) to Enhance Preparedness and Vaccine Equity,” includes recent preclinical data that indicate that the TNX-801 platform is naturally attenuated and potentially safer than the vaccines utilized to eradicate smallpox.

“TNX-801 was found to be up to 100-fold more attenuated than modern vaccinia vaccine viruses in primary human cell lines derived from dermal and respiratory tract cells, which are the two main poxvirus routes of entry and transmission,” said Zeil Rosenberg, M.D., M.P.H., Executive Vice President, Medical. “TNX-801 was also found to be more than 1,000-fold attenuated relative to modern vaccinia vaccine viruses (“VACV”) in an immunocompromised murine model with targeted knock-outs of the IFN- and/or IFN- receptors. In these mice, TNX-801 did not cause any observable clinical disease, and in most measured parameters (disease score, body temperature, weight loss, and survival), the TNX-801 infected mice were indistinguishable from the uninfected mice. Together, these data suggest that TNX-801 potentially should be a safer vaccine in immunocompromised populations than many VACV-based vaccines.”

Dr. Rosenberg added, “A new attenuated live-virus smallpox and Mpox vaccine has the potential to enhance vaccine equity and preparedness in the event of a global emergency.”

About TNX-801

TNX-801 is a live virus vaccine based on horsepox^2,3. Tonix is developing TNX-801 for percutaneous administration as a vaccine to protect against Mpox and smallpox. Tonix’s TNX-801 is based on the sequence of the 1976 natural isolate Mongolian horsepox clone MNR-76.^2,3 Molecular analysis of DNA sequences suggests that TNX-801 is closer than modern smallpox vaccines to the vaccine discovered and disseminated by Dr. Edward Jenner in 1798^4-6. For example, recent studies^7,8 have shown approximately 99.7% colinear identity between TNX-801 and the circa 1860 U.S. smallpox vaccine VK05.⁹ The small plaque size in the culture of TNX-801 appears identical to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control publication of the natural isolate¹⁰. Relative to vaccinia, horsepox has substantially decreased virulence in mice². Dr. Edward Jenner invented vaccination in 1798 and the procedure was called “vaccination” because ‘cow’ is ‘vacca’ in Latin and the inoculum material was initially obtained from lesions on the udders of cows affected by a mild disease known as cowpox. However, Dr. Jenner suspected that cowpox originated from horses⁶. Subsequently, Dr. Jenner and others immunized against smallpox using material directly obtained from horses. The use of vaccines from horses was sometimes called ‘equination’ from the Latin ‘equus’ which means ‘horse’¹¹. Equination and vaccination were practiced side-by-side in Europe^11,12. Tonix received an official written response from a Type B pre-Investigational New Drug Application (IND) meeting with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to develop TNX-801 as a potential vaccine to protect against Mpox disease and smallpox. Tonix believes the FDA feedback provides a path to agreement on the design of a Phase 1/2 study and the overall clinical development plan. The Phase 1/2 clinical trial will assess the safety, tolerability, and immunogenicity of TNX-801, following the submission and clearance of an IND.

About the Recombinant Pox Virus (RPV) Platform

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

About Mpox and Smallpox

Mpox¹³ and smallpox¹⁴ are diseases in humans caused by the Mpox and smallpox (or variola) viruses, respectively. Mpox and variola are closely related orthopox viruses. Vaccination against smallpox with live virus vaccines based on horsepox or vaccinia protects against Mpox. After routine smallpox vaccination was stopped in about 1970, Mpox has become a growing problem in Africa. Since May of 2022, approximately 30,000 cases have been identified in the United States^15,16. There are two distinct clades of the Mpox virus: the central African (Congo Basin) clade, and the West African clade which is associated with the recent outbreak. Historically, the Congo Basin clade has caused more severe disease than the West African clade. In recent times, the case fatality ratio for the virus is about 3–6%¹⁷. In November 2022, the WHO began using a new preferred term “Mpox” as a synonym for monkeypox¹⁸. Smallpox is considered eradicated, but there are concerns about malicious reintroduction.

Tonix Pharmaceuticals Holding Corp.

Tonix is a biopharmaceutical company focused on commercializing, developing, discovering and licensing therapeutics to treat and prevent human disease and alleviate suffering. Tonix Medicines, our commercial subsidiary, markets Zembrace^® SymTouch^® (sumatriptan injection) 3 mg and Tosymra^® (sumatriptan nasal spray) 10 mg under a transition services agreement with Upsher-Smith Laboratories, LLC from whom the products were acquired on June 30, 2023. Zembrace SymTouch and Tosymra are each indicated for the treatment of acute migraine with or without aura in adults. Tonix’s development portfolio¹⁹ is composed of central nervous system (CNS), rare disease, immunology, and infectious disease product candidates. Tonix’s CNS development portfolio includes both small molecules and biologics to treat pain, neurologic, psychiatric, and addiction conditions. Tonix’s lead development CNS candidate, TNX-102 SL (cyclobenzaprine HCl sublingual tablet), is in mid-Phase 3 development for the management of fibromyalgia, having completed enrollment of a potentially confirmatory Phase 3 study in the third quarter of 2023, with topline data expected in late December 2023. TNX-102 SL is also being developed to treat fibromyalgia-type Long COVID, a chronic post-acute COVID-19 condition. Enrollment in a Phase 2 proof-of-concept study has been completed, and topline results were reported in the third quarter of 2023. TNX-601 ER (tianeptine hemioxalate extended-release tablets) is a once-daily oral formulation being developed as a treatment for major depressive disorder (MDD), that completed enrollment in a Phase 2 proof-of-concept study in the third quarter of 2023, with topline results expected in early November of 2023. TNX-4300 (estianeptine) is a single isomer version of TNX-601, a small molecule oral therapeutic in preclinical development to treat MDD, Alzheimer’s disease, and Parkinson’s disease. Relative to tianeptine, estianeptine lacks activity on the µ-opioid receptor while maintaining activity in the rat Novel Object Recognition test in vivo and the ability to activate PPAR-β/δ and neuroplasticity in tissue culture. TNX-1900 (intranasal potentiated oxytocin), is in development for preventing headaches in chronic migraine, and has completed enrollment in a Phase 2 proof-of-concept study with topline data expected in early December 2023. TNX-1900 is also being studied in binge eating disorder, pediatric obesity, and social anxiety disorder by academic collaborators under investigator-initiated INDs. TNX-1300 (cocaine esterase) is a biologic designed to treat cocaine intoxication and has been granted Breakthrough Therapy designation by the FDA. A Phase 2 study of TNX-1300 is expected to be initiated in the fourth quarter of 2023. Tonix’s rare disease development portfolio includes TNX-2900 (intranasal potentiated oxytocin) for the treatment of Prader-Willi syndrome. TNX-2900 has been granted Orphan Drug designation by the FDA. Tonix’s immunology development portfolio includes biologics to address organ transplant rejection, autoimmunity and cancer, including TNX-1500, which is a humanized monoclonal antibody targeting CD40-ligand (CD40L or CD154) being developed for the prevention of allograft rejection and for the treatment of autoimmune diseases. A Phase 1 study of TNX-1500 was initiated in the third quarter of 2023. Tonix’s infectious disease pipeline includes TNX-801, a vaccine in development to prevent smallpox and Mpox. TNX-801 also serves as the live virus vaccine platform or recombinant pox vaccine platform for other infectious diseases. The infectious disease development portfolio also includes TNX-3900 and TNX-4000, which are classes of broad-spectrum small-molecule oral antivirals.

Zembrace SymTouch and Tosymra are registered trademarks of Tonix Medicines. Intravail is a registered trademark of Aegis Therapeutics, LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Neurelis, Inc. All other marks are the property of their respective owners.

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

¹TNX-801 is an investigational new drug and has not been approved for any indication.
²Noyce RS, et al. (2018) PLoS One. 13(1):e0188453
³Tulman ER, et al. (2006) J Virol. 80(18):9244-58.PMID:16940536
⁴Schrick L et al. (2017) N Engl J Med. 377:1491.
⁵Qin et al. (2015) J. Virol. 89:1809.
⁶Jenner E. “An Inquiry Into the Causes and Effects of the Variolae Vaccinae: A Disease Discovered in Some of the Western Counties of England, Particularly Gloucestershire, and Known by the Name of the Cow Pox.” London: Sampson Low, 1798.
⁷Brinkmann A et al, Genome Biology (2020) 21:286.
⁸Duggan A et al. Genome Biology (2020) 21:175.
⁹Tonix press release. Dec 4, 2020 https://ir.tonixpharma.com/news-events/press-releases/detail/1236/vaccine-genome-researchers-report-99-7-colinear-identity
¹⁰Trindale GS et al. (2016) Viruses (12). Pii: E328. PMID:27973399
¹¹Esparza E, et al (2017) Vaccine. 35(52):7222-7230.
¹²Esparza J et al. (2020) Vaccine.; 38(30):4773-4779.
¹³www.cdc.gov/poxvirus/monkeypox/about.html
¹⁴www.cdc.gov/smallpox/research/
¹⁵Mandavilli, A. The New York Times. May 26, 2020. “Who is protected against monkeypox”
¹⁶www.cdc.gov/poxvirus/monkeypox/response/2022/us-map.html – Accessed October 18, 2023
¹⁷https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/monkeypox#:~:text=There%20are%20two%20distinct%20genetic,thought%20to%20be%20more%20transmissible – Accessed October 18, 2023
¹⁸https://www.who.int/news/item/28-11-2022-who-recommends-new-name-for-monkeypox-disease – Accessed October 18, 2023
¹⁹Tonix’s product candidates in development are investigational new drugs and have not been approved for any indication

Forward Looking Statements

Certain statements in this press release are forward-looking within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements may be identified by the use of forward-looking words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “forecast,” “estimate,” “expect,” and “intend,” among others. These forward-looking statements are based on Tonix’s current expectations and actual results could differ materially. There are a number of factors that could cause actual events to differ materially from those indicated by such forward-looking statements. These factors include, but are not limited to, risks related to the failure to obtain FDA clearances or approvals and noncompliance with FDA regulations; delays and uncertainties caused by the global COVID-19 pandemic; risks related to the timing and progress of clinical development of our product candidates; our need for additional financing; uncertainties of patent protection and litigation; uncertainties of government or third party payor reimbursement; limited research and development efforts and dependence upon third parties; and substantial competition. As with any pharmaceutical under development, there are significant risks in the development, regulatory approval and commercialization of new products. Tonix does not undertake an obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement. Investors should read the risk factors set forth in the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2022, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on March 13, 2023, and periodic reports filed with the SEC on or after the date thereof. All of Tonix’s forward-looking statements are expressly qualified by all such risk factors and other cautionary statements. The information set forth herein speaks only as of the date thereof.

Investor Contact

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

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

Media Contact

Ben Shannon
ICR Westwicke
ben.shannon@westwicke.com
(919) 360-3039

Source: Tonix Pharmaceuticals Holding Corp.

Released October 19, 2023

Release – MustGrow Announces Participation at Biocontrol Industry Conference and Investor Webinar

Posted on October 19, 2023October 19, 2023 by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

Research News and Market Data on MGROF

SASKATOON, Saskatchewan, Canada, October 19, 2023 – MustGrow Biologics Corp. (TSXV:MGRO) (OTC:MGROF) (FRA:0C0) (the “Company” or “MustGrow”) will be participating in next week’s Annual Biocontrol Industry Meeting (“ABIM”) in Basel, Switzerland from October 23rd to 25th. ABIM is regarded as the premier event in the biocontrol industry. From policy makers, to farmers, to the end product users, global agriculture professionals attend ABIM each year to drive the sustainable agriculture industry forward.

For more information, please visit ABIM’s website here.

“As a meeting place for the biocontrol industry, ABIM is internationally recognized and remains one of the best places to discover new products, to discuss market opportunities with multiple organizations, to present new research and products, and to liaise with fellow professionals. The large number of delegates attending the event demonstrates the continued importance of sustainable agriculture and MustGrow is excited to be a participant,” Corey Giasson, MustGrow’s President & CEO explains. “Biocontrols are essential in the transition of agriculture. These nature-based technologies can potentially improve biodiversity, soil quality, crop health and resilience contributing to sustainable food production.”

MustGrow is also pleased to invite investors and the broader financial community to a fully interactive webinar hosted by President & CEO Corey Giasson and Chief Operating Officer Colin Bletsky. The webinar will take place on Tuesday, October 31st at 2:00 pm EDT and will consist of a 20-minute management presentation followed by an interactive question and answer session.

Please register in advance here.

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar. Prior to October 31st, please email questions to info@mustgrow.ca to be addressed during the Q&A portion of the webcast.

______________

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

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 its participation at the Annual Biocontrol Industry Meeting and the upcoming interactive webinar hosted by President & CEO Corey Giasson and Chief Operating Officer Colin Bletsky.

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 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.

Release – CoreCivic Announces 2023 Third Quarter Earnings Release and Conference Call Dates

Posted on October 19, 2023October 19, 2023 by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

Research News and Market Data on CXW

October 18, 2023

PDF Version

BRENTWOOD, Tenn., Oct. 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — CoreCivic, Inc. (NYSE: CXW) (the Company) announced today that it will release its 2023 third quarter financial results after the market closes on Monday, November 6, 2023. A live broadcast of CoreCivic’s conference call will begin at 11:00 a.m. central time (12:00 p.m. eastern time) on Tuesday, November 7, 2023.

To participate via telephone and join the call live, please register in advance here https://register.vevent.com/register/BI3e522c1e25f444ec98977db80437da4f. Upon registration, telephone participants will receive a confirmation email detailing how to join the conference call, including the dial-in number and a unique passcode.

Participants may access the audio-only webcast of the conference call from the Company’s website at www.corecivic.com under the “Events & Presentations” section of the “Investors” page. A replay of the webcast will be available for seven days.

About CoreCivic

CoreCivic is a diversified, government-solutions company with the scale and experience needed to solve tough government challenges in flexible, cost-effective ways. We provide a broad range of solutions to government partners that serve the public good through high-quality corrections and detention management, a network of residential and non-residential alternatives to incarceration to help address America’s recidivism crisis, and government real estate solutions. We are the nation’s largest owner of partnership correctional, detention and residential reentry facilities, and believe we are the largest private owner of real estate used by government agencies in the United States. We have been a flexible and dependable partner for government for 40 years. Our employees are driven by a deep sense of service, high standards of professionalism and a responsibility to help government better the public good. Learn more at www.corecivic.com.

Contact:	Investors: David Garfinkle – Chief Financial Officer – (615) 263-3008
	Media: Steve Owen – Vice President, Communications – (615) 263-3107

Inflation Battle Goes On: Powell’s Reassuring Message from the Fed

Posted on October 19, 2023October 19, 2023 by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell reiterated the central bank’s determination to bring down inflation in a speech today, even as he acknowledged potential economic risks from sustained high interest rates. His remarks underline the Fed’s unwavering focus on price stability despite emerging signs of an economic slowdown.

While noting welcome data showing inflation may be starting to cool, Powell stressed it was too early to determine a downward trend. He stated forcefully that inflation remains “too high”, requiring ongoing policy resolve from the Fed to return it to the 2% target.

Powell hinted the path to lower inflation likely entails a period of below-trend economic growth and softening labor market conditions. With jobless claims recently hitting a three-month low, the robust job market could exert persistent upward pressure on prices. Powell indicated weaker growth may be necessary to rebalance supply and demand and quell wage-driven inflation.

His remarks mirror other Fed officials who have suggested a growth sacrifice may be required to decisively curb inflation. The comments reflect Powell’s primary focus on price stability amid the worst outbreak of inflation in over 40 years. He admitted the path to lower inflation will likely prove bumpy and take time.

Powell stated the Fed will base policy moves on incoming data, risks, and the evolving outlook. But he stressed officials are united in their commitment to the inflation mandate. Additional evidence of strong economic growth or persistent labor market tightness could necessitate further rate hikes.

Markets widely expect the Fed to pause rate increases for now, after aggressively raising the federal funds rate this year from near zero to a current target range of 3.75%-4%. But Powell avoided any definitive signal on the future policy path. His remarks leave the door open to additional tightening if high inflation persists.

The speech underscores the Fed’s data-dependent approach while maintaining flexibility in either direction. Powell emphasized officials will proceed carefully in evaluating when to halt rate hikes and eventually ease monetary policy. The Fed faces heightened risks now of overtightening into a potential recession or undertightening if inflation remains stubbornly high.

After being accused of misreading rapidly rising inflation last year, Powell stressed the importance of policy consistency and avoiding premature pivots. A sustainable return to the 2% goal will require ongoing tight monetary policy for some time, even as economic headwinds strengthen.

Still, Powell acknowledged the uncertainties in the outlook given myriad economic crosscurrents. While rate hikes will continue slowing growth, easing supply chain strains and improving global trade could help counter those drags next year. And robust household savings could cushion consumer spending despite higher rates.

But Powell made clear the Fed will not declare victory prematurely given the persistence of inflation. Officials remain firmly committed to policy firming until convincing evidence demonstrates inflation moving down sustainably toward the target. Only then can the Fed safely conclude its aggressive tightening cycle.

For investors, Powell’s speech signals monetary policy will likely remain restrictive for some time, though the ultimate peak in rates remains uncertain. Markets should prepare for extended volatility as the Fed responds to evolving economic data. With risks tilted toward policy tightness, interest-sensitive assets could face ongoing pressure.

Gas Prices Drop As Oil Prices Rise

Posted on October 18, 2023October 18, 2023 by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

U.S. drivers have seen welcome relief in recent weeks as gas prices steadily drift lower, even while oil continues to trade near $90 per barrel. The national average gasoline price now sits at $3.58 per gallon, down 30 cents over the last month.

What’s behind this divergence between oil and gas prices? And what does it mean for the average American’s wallet?

Seasonal Shifts Push Gas Prices Lower

The primary drivers pulling gas prices downward are seasonal factors. In the fall, refineries begin switching to cheaper winter-blend gasoline formulations. At the same time, cooler weather means lower fuel demand. Both these trends allow gas prices to detach from oil markets.

Rebecca Babin, an energy trader at CIBC Private Wealth, explained that “gas prices seasonally fall every autumn. 2022 is no exception.” Gas prices often decline 20 to 25 cents per gallon or more between September and December.

Supply Growth Eases Market Tightness

This year’s price declines also come as fuel inventories have rebounded nearly 10% from 2021 levels. Whereas last year saw tight fuel supplies amid recovering demand, expanded refinery runs have improved market balance in 2022.

“Anything that adds product to the market is going to help bring down refinery margins,” said Jeff Barron of the U.S. Energy Information Administration. These inventory and supply differences make today’s environment markedly different from a year ago.

OPEC Cuts, Geopolitics Still Support Oil

On the crude side, OPEC+ production cuts and global disruptions have kept oil prices elevated. Prices spiked last week on Middle East escalation fears before retreating again.

According to Babin, oil markets remain well-supported in the low $80s per barrel due to the supply-demand balance. Further gains into the $90s could threaten demand, however. The key uncertainty is whether OPEC+ extends output curbs into 2023.

Gas Demand Slackens Amid High Prices

Sky-high prices have also dampened U.S. retail fuel demand, which recently slipped below 2020 levels. Brenda Shaffer, an energy specialist at Georgetown University, notes demand may decline “as Americans cut back on unnecessary car trips to save money.”

With households pinched by inflation, discretionary driving becomes a prime target for budget cuts. But lower fuel consumption then puts further downward pressure on prices.

The Consumer Impact

Falling pump prices come as welcome relief, especially heading into the busy holiday travel season. The 40-cent drop from the September peak has saved U.S. households nearly $10 billion, by some estimates.

“It’s like getting a little raise, without having to ask your boss,” says Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy.

Lower fuel costs help curb inflationary pressures and provide savings that can be redirected to other household needs. But prices remain elevated historically. Americans are still paying nearly $400 more per year to fill up than just two years ago.

While the gas price outlook remains murky, any further declines over the next few months would aid consumers through winter. Yet many will likely remain wary of rising fuel bills cutting into tight budgets.

Take a moment to take a look at other oil and energy companies covered by Noble Capital Markets’ Research Analyst Michael Heim.