Month: November 2023

Release – Lifeway Foods® Announces Record Results for the Third Quarter Ended September 30, 2023

Posted on by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

Research News and Market Data on LWAY

13 Nov, 2023, 09:00 ET

Net sales increase 7.2% year-over-year to $40.9 million; 16th consecutive quarter of year-over-year net sales growth

730 basis points of year-over-year gross profit margin expansion

MORTON GROVE, Ill., Nov. 13, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — Lifeway Foods, Inc. (Nasdaq: LWAY) (“Lifeway” or “the Company”), a leading U.S. supplier of kefir and fermented probiotic products to support the microbiome, today reported financial results for the third quarter ended September 30, 2023.

“I am excited to announce that our strong momentum continued in the third quarter as we once again set a Company record on the topline, and delivered robust, year-over-year gross profit margin expansion of 730 basis points,” commented Julie Smolyansky, President and Chief Executive Officer of Lifeway Foods. “Net sales were up 7.2%, marking our 16th consecutive quarter of year-over-year growth, and continued to be driven by volume growth in our flagship Lifeway drinkable kefir. This growth is particularly impressive as we lapped an exceptional third quarter of 2022, illustrating both the loyalty of our customers, who have maintained their dedication to our premium, healthy offerings in light of inflation-justified price increases last year, as well as the success of our strategic investments in capturing incremental consumers seeking better-for-you offerings at a great value. Additionally, our proactive operating discipline and favorable milk pricing helped achieve vastly improved year-over-year profitability alongside the heightened sales, a testament to the execution by the whole Lifeway team. Looking ahead, we will continue to assess further distribution opportunities and pursue additional brand exposure for our core Lifeway kefir products and farmer cheese. This was an amazing start to the second half of 2023, and I want to thank the Lifeway team, our customers and retail partners for helping us deliver yet another quarter of record revenue.”

Third Quarter 2023 Results

Net sales were $40.9 million for the third quarter ended September 30, 2023, an increase of $2.8 million or 7.2% from the same period of 2022. The net sales increase was primarily driven by higher volumes of Lifeway branded drinkable kefir, and to a lesser extent the impact of price increases implemented during the fourth quarter of 2022.

Gross profit as a percentage of net sales was 27.2% for the third quarter ended September 30, 2023, compared to 19.9% in the same period of 2022. The 730 basis point increase versus the prior year was primarily due to the higher volumes of Lifeway branded products and the favorable impact of milk pricing, and to a lesser extent the price increases implemented during the fourth quarter of 2022 and decreased transportation costs.

Selling, general and administrative expenses as a percentage of net sales were 14.6% for the third quarter ended September 30, 2023, compared to 16.4% in the same period of 2022.

The Company reported net income of $3.4 million or $0.23 per basic and diluted common share for the third quarter ended September 30, 2023 compared to net income of $1.0 million or $0.06 per basic and diluted common share during the same period in 2022.

Conference Call and Webcast
A pre-recorded conference call and webcast with Julie Smolyansky discussing these results with additional comments and details is available through the “Investor Relations” section of the Company’s website at https://lifewaykefir.com/webinars-reports/ and will also be available for replay.

About Lifeway Foods, Inc.
Lifeway Foods, Inc., which has been recognized as one of Forbes’ Best Small Companies, is America’s leading supplier of the probiotic, fermented beverage known as kefir. In addition to its line of drinkable kefir, the company also produces cheese, probiotic oat milk, and a ProBugs line for kids. Lifeway’s tart and tangy fermented dairy products are now sold across the United States, Mexico, Ireland and France. Learn how Lifeway is good for more than just you at lifewayfoods.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

This release (and oral statements made regarding the subjects of this release) contains “forward-looking statements” as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 regarding, among other things, future operating and financial performance, product development, market position, business strategy and objectives. These statements use words, and variations of words, such as “continue,” “build,” “future,” “increase,” “drive,” “believe,” “look,” “ahead,” “confident,” “deliver,” “outlook,” “expect,” and “predict.” Other examples of forward-looking statements may include, but are not limited to, (i) statements of Company plans and objectives, including the introduction of new products, or estimates or predictions of actions by customers or suppliers, (ii) statements of future economic performance, and (III) statements of assumptions underlying other statements and statements about Lifeway or its business. You are cautioned not to rely on these forward-looking statements. These statements are based on current expectations of future events and thus are inherently subject to uncertainty. If underlying assumptions prove inaccurate or known or unknown risks or uncertainties materialize, actual results could vary materially from Lifeway’s expectations and projections. These risks, uncertainties, and other factors include: price competition; the decisions of customers or consumers; the actions of competitors; changes in the pricing of commodities; the effects of government regulation; possible delays in the introduction of new products; and customer acceptance of products and services. A further list and description of these risks, uncertainties, and other factors can be found in Lifeway’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2022, and the Company’s subsequent filings with the SEC. Copies of these filings are available online at https://www.sec.gov, http://lifewaykefir.com/investor-relations/, or on request from Lifeway. Information in this release is as of the dates and time periods indicated herein, and Lifeway does not undertake to update any of the information contained in these materials, except as required by law. Accordingly, YOU SHOULD NOT RELY ON THE ACCURACY OF ANY OF THE STATEMENTS OR OTHER INFORMATION CONTAINED IN ANY ARCHIVED PRESS RELEASE.

Media:
Derek Miller 
Vice President of Communications, Lifeway Foods
Email: derekm@lifeway.net 

General inquiries:
Lifeway Foods, Inc.
Phone: 847-967-1010
Email: info@lifeway.net

LIFEWAY FOODS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES Consolidated Balance Sheets September 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022 (In thousands) 
 
September 30, 2023December 31, 
(Unaudited)2022 
Current assets 
Cash and cash equivalents$12,632$4,444 
Accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts and discounts &
allowances of $1,430 and $1,820 at September 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022
respectively		13,09511,414 
Inventories, net9,3219,631 
Prepaid expenses and other current assets1,6211,445 
Refundable income taxes26044 
Total current assets36,92926,978 
 
Property, plant and equipment, net22,28520,905 
Operating lease right-of-use asset203174 
Goodwill11,70411,704 
Intangible assets, net7,0337,438 
Other assets1,9001,800 
Total assets$80,054$68,999 
 
Current liabilities 
Current portion of note payable$1,250$1,250 
Accounts payable9,1027,979 
Accrued expenses5,5553,813 
Accrued income taxes500– 
Total current liabilities16,40713,042 
Line of credit2,7772,777 
Note payable1,7312,477 
Operating lease liabilities130104 
Deferred income taxes, net3,0293,029 
Total liabilities24,07421,429 
 
Commitments and contingencies (Note 9)–– 
 
Stockholders’ equity 
Preferred stock, no par value; 2,500 shares authorized; no shares issued or outstanding
at September 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022		–– 
Common stock, no par value; 40,000 shares authorized; 17,274 shares issued; 14,691
and 14,645 outstanding at September 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022,
respectively		6,5096,509 
Paid-in capital4,3383,624 
Treasury stock, at cost(16,695)(16,993) 
Retained earnings61,82854,430 
Total stockholders’ equity55,98047,570 
 
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity$80,054$68,999 
LIFEWAY FOODS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES Consolidated Statements of Operations For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022 (Unaudited) (In thousands, except per share data)
Three Months Ended September 30,Nine months Ended September 30,
2023202220232022
Net sales$40,896$38,140$118,030$105,730
Cost of goods sold29,09929,96285,42885,032
Depreciation expense6545901,9531,833
Total cost of goods sold29,75330,55287,38186,865
Gross profit11,1437,58830,64918,865
Selling expenses2,8842,8438,9748,527
General and administrative3,0853,41510,0289,546
Amortization expense135135405405
Total operating expenses6,1046,39319,40718,478
Income from operations5,0391,19511,242387
Other income (expense):
Interest expense(109)(77)(322)(171)
Gain on sale of property and equipment––33–
Other (expense) income, net(1)(5)(1)(10)
Total other income (expense)(110)(82)(290)(181)
Income before provision for income taxes4,9291,11310,952206
Provision (benefit) for income taxes1,5171303,554(2)
Net income$3,412$983$7,398$208
Earnings per common share:
Basic$0.23$0.06$0.50$0.01
Diluted$0.23$0.06$0.49$0.01
Weighted average common shares:
Basic14,67715,49014,65915,462
Diluted15,10115,84815,06315,759
LIFEWAY FOODS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (Unaudited) (In thousands)
Nine months ended September 30,
20232022
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income$7,398$208
Adjustments to reconcile net income to operating cash flow:
Depreciation and amortization2,3582,238
Stock-based compensation1,078755
Non-cash interest expense55
Bad debt expense2–
Deferred revenue–(23)
Gain on sale of equipment(33)–
(Increase) decrease in operating assets:
Accounts receivable(1,683)(1,576)
Inventories310(907)
Refundable income taxes(216)(309)
Prepaid expenses and other current assets(176)(115)
Increase (decrease) in operating liabilities:
Accounts payable9283,085
Accrued expenses1,6731,003
Accrued income taxes500(725)
Net cash provided by operating activities12,1443,639
Cash flows from investing activities:
Purchases of property and equipment(3,146)(2,609)
Proceeds from sales of equipment40–
Acquisition, net of cash acquired–(580)
Purchase of investments(100)–
Net cash used in investing activities(3,206)(3,189)
Cash flows from financing activities:
Repayment of note payable(750)(750)
Net cash used in financing activities(750)(750)
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents8,188(300)
Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the period4,4449,233
Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the period$12,632$8,933
Supplemental cash flow information:
Cash paid for income taxes, net$3,270$640
Cash paid for interest$343$158
Non-cash investing activities
Accrued purchase of property and equipment$194$250
Increase in right-of-use assets and operating lease obligations$86$19

SOURCE Lifeway Foods, Inc.

Release – Xcel Brands Announces License with ALPHA OES For Longaberger

Posted on by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

Research News and Market Data on XELB

November 13, 2023 at 8:00 AM EST

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NEW YORK, Nov. 13, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Xcel Brands, Inc. (NASDAQ: XELB) (“Xcel” or the “Company”), a media and consumer products company with billions of dollars in retail sales generated by its brands through social commerce and live-stream shopping, today announced a new licensing agreement with ALPHA OES, a provider of eCommerce services and strategies for brands. Under the terms of the licensing agreement, ALPHA OES will take over the day-to-day operations for Xcel’s Longaberger eCommerce business.

“We’re excited to partner with ALPHA OES on the Longaberger brand,” said Robert W. D’Loren, Chairman and CEO of Xcel Brands. “Since we acquired Longaberger in 2019, we’ve been able to evolve the business from a direct sales company into a social commerce marketplace for home products featuring Longaberger’s American made baskets. We believe that partnering with ALPHA OES, who is an expert in investing in and driving profitable growth eCommerce businesses that show strong brand affinity will help us continue to grow the Longaberger brand and business.”

“Longaberger is an American heritage brand with a strong consumer following and unique positioning in the market,” said Charles Mertz, CEO of ALPHA OES. “We’re thrilled to partner with Xcel to continue to build Longaberger’s eCommerce business and build upon the reputation and brand positioning that Longaberger enjoys and Xcel has invested in over the past several years. We’re also excited to work with Xcel on bringing Longaberger onto their social commerce marketplace, which we believe has the potential to reinvent customer acquisition of eCommerce brands that have a highly engaged audience through social commerce.”

Under the new agreement, ALPHA OES will take over day-to-day management of Longaberger’s eCommerce business under a license with Longaberger Licensing, a subsidiary of Xcel. Xcel will continue to build out its social commerce and short form video technology and plans to transition the Longaberger stylists onto its new platform by year-end. Xcel continues to strategically invest in social commerce technology platforms and partnerships that enable it to connect brands directly with consumers through short-form and live-stream video content.

About Xcel Brands

Xcel Brands, Inc. (NASDAQ: XELB) is a media and consumer products company engaged in the design, production, marketing, livestreaming, wholesale distribution and direct-to-consumer sales of branded apparel, footwear, accessories, fine jewelry, home goods and other consumer products, and the acquisition of dynamic consumer lifestyle brands. Xcel was founded in 2011 with a vision to reimagine shopping, entertainment and social media as one thing. Xcel owns the Judith Ripka, Halston, LOGO by Lori Goldstein, and C. Wonder brands and a minority stake in the Isaac Mizrahi brand. It also owns and manages the Longaberger brand through its controlling interest in Longaberger Licensing LLC. Xcel is pioneering a true omni-channel sales strategy that includes the promotion and sale of products under its brands through interactive television, digital livestream shopping, social commerce, brick-and-mortar retail and e-commerce channels. The company’s brands have generated in excess of $4 billion in retail sales via livestreaming in interactive television and digital channels alone.

Headquartered in New York City, Xcel Brands is led by an executive team with significant livestreaming, production, merchandising, design, marketing, retailing and licensing experience and has a proven track record of success in elevating branded consumer products companies. With an experienced team of professionals focused on design, production and digital marketing, Xcel maintains control of product quality and promotion across all of its product categories and distribution channels. Xcel differentiates by design. www.xcelbrands.com

About ALPHA OES

ALPHA OES, a premier Outsourced eCommerce Solutions company, forms strategic partnerships with leading brands to maximize digital commerce and revolutionize direct-to-consumer (DTC) engagement.  Leveraging proprietary FoxLogic performance marketing strategies, ALPHA OES drives sustainable revenue and contribution margin growth while supercharging a brand’s digital presence.  The comprehensive suite of eCommerce services developed by ALPHA OES is customized to serve unique brand needs while scaling for continuous growth.

For further information please contact:

Andrew Berger
SM Berger & Company, Inc.
216-464-6400
andrew@smberger.com

Source: Xcel Brands, Inc

Release – Entravision Appoints Jack Randall as Executive Vice President of Political and Strategic Sales

Posted on by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

Research News and Market Data on EVC

November 13, 2023

SANTA MONICA, Calif.–(BUSINESS WIRE)– Entravision Communications Corporation (NYSE: EVC), a leading global advertising solutions, media and technology company, today announced the hire of Jack Randall as Executive Vice President of Political and Strategic Sales, effective November 13, 2023. In his new role, Mr. Randall will lead the development and execution of high-impact sales strategies tailored specifically for the political and advocacy sector. Mr. Randall’s expertise and understanding of the unique needs of this segment will help propel the Company to new heights by optimizing Entravision’s potential in what will be the highest funded election cycle in U.S. history. Mr. Randall will report to Chris Munoz, Executive Vice President of National Sales.

“We eagerly welcome Jack to the Entravision team,” said Chris Munoz, Executive Vice President of National Sales, Entravision. “His remarkable expertise in media sales, coupled with a deep understanding of our audience, instills confidence in his capacity to spearhead our endeavors in this specialized field. Jack’s appointment stands as a significant milestone for our company, underscoring our dedication to innovation and strategic growth.”

Mr. Randall brings more than 40 years of experience as an accomplished executive in the media industry. He previously served as Head of Strategic Sales at T-Mobile Advertising Solutions from 2022 to 2023, where he worked directly with brands to develop custom interactive content and proprietary custom audiences for targeted media plans. Previously, he served as VP Business Development at Octopus Interactive, which was acquired by T-Mobile in 2022. Prior to that, Mr. Randall served as Chief Commercial Officer for consumer research company, CivicScience, and spent 20 years in roles of increasing seniority at Univision Communications Inc., a leading Spanish-language media company. Mr. Randall is Principal, Business Strategy at his own firm, JRR Consulting LLC and is a member of The Executive Forum and Co-Chair of the Media, Marketing, and Insights SIG. Mr. Randall graduated from Wake Forest University and holds certifications in Digital Marketing and Google Adwords.

“Entravision’s commitment to the Latino community is unwavering, and I am thrilled to join a company that recognizes the vital role of this community in shaping our future,” said Mr. Randall. “As a longtime advocate for the Hispanic community, I look forward to contributing to Entravision’s growth trajectory ahead.”

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 New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol: EVC. Learn more about all of our media, marketing and technology offerings at entravision.com or connect with us on LinkedIn and Facebook.

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

Source: Entravision Communications Corporation

Release – Direct Digital Holdings Ranked Number 108th Fastest-Growing Company in North America on the 2023 Deloitte Technology Fast 500™

Posted on by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

Research News and Market Data on DRCT

November 13, 2023 9:00am EST

HOUSTON, Nov. 13, 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 the Company has placed 108th on the Deloitte Technology Fast 500™, a ranking of the 500 fastest-growing technology, media, telecommunications, life sciences, fintech and energy tech companies in North America, now in its 29th year. During the measurement period, Direct Digital Holdings grew 1,325%, making it the 8th ranked company in Deloitte’s Digital Content / Media / Entertainment division. The Company placed among the top 20% of all companies on the list and was ranked #6 in Texas.

“We are honored to be included on this prestigious list of fellow industry-leading companies, and I would personally like to thank Deloitte for recognizing our company,” said Mark D. Walker, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Direct Digital Holdings. “This recognition is a testament to the strength and effectiveness of our business model as well as our technological capabilities and highly diversified customer base. We remain committed to providing best-in-class advertising solutions to our partners as our number of clients, average client-size and total impressions per month all continue to increase.”

The Company attributes its significant growth to current market dynamics benefitting its technology-driven and differentiated approach to advertising solutions. On November 9, 2023, the Company reported its third quarter earnings ended September 30, 2023. Direct Digital Holdings’ sell-side advertising segment revenue grew to $51.6 million or 174% growth over the $18.9 million of sell-side revenue in the same period of 2022. The Company’s buy-side advertising segment revenue grew to $7.9 million or 10% growth over the $7.1 million of buy-side revenue in the same period of 2022.

Direct Digital Holdings’ subsidiaries bring distinct offerings to the ecosystem, contributing to the Company’s advancement. Colossus SSP is focused on connecting brands of all sizes with a full range of diverse and multicultural audiences, as well as the general market, serving as a one-stop-shop for media inventory needs. On the buy-side, with Huddled Masses and Orange142, the Company provides data-driven digital marketing solutions to businesses in the underserved SMB and middle market landscape. Those two buy-side companies also work seamlessly with Colossus SSP to bring the benefits of its inclusive marketplace and approach to SMB and middle market clients – with significant results.

“We are pleased that the recent strategic and operational investments in our technology stack have resulted in industry-leading growth across our sell-side advertising platforms,” said Anu Pillai, Direct Digital Holdings’ Chief Technology Officer. “As we also continue to capitalize on the shift in media spend from traditional to digital, as well as the growing media spend targeted at the middle market, the result has been advertising solutions that are utilized by businesses across all industries due to the strength of our technology stack and our proven, differentiated approach. We are proud to collaborate with fellow leaders in the industry such as Amazon Publisher Services, FreeWheel’s Beeswax and HPE GreenLake, and look forward to continuing to offer the high-quality advertising solutions we have become known and trusted to provide.”

Statements from Deloitte
“Each year, I look forward to reviewing the progress and innovations of our Technology Fast 500 winners as these companies truly demonstrate how important new ideas are to progressing our society and the world, especially during difficult times,” said Paul Silverglate, Vice Chair, Deloitte LLP and U.S. Technology Sector Leader. “While software and services and life sciences continue to dominate the top 10, I am encouraged to see other categories making their mark. Congratulations to all the winners who show us how creativity, hard work and perseverance can lead to success.”

“As a growing company, it’s always rewarding to be recognized for the ongoing commitment it takes to navigate obstacles, transform when necessary and ultimately create a thriving business,” said Christie Simons, partner, Deloitte & Touche LLP and industry leader for technology, media and telecommunications within Deloitte’s audit and assurance practice. “Over the nearly 30 years we’ve been compiling the Technology Fast 500 we’ve seen new categories emerge, growth rates explode, and certain regional markets shine from the bright talent they attract. We are proud of all the winners for achieving this well-deserved honor.”

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 125,000 clients monthly, generating over 300 billion impressions per month across display, CTV, in-app and other media channels.

About the 2023 Deloitte Technology Fast 500
Now in its 29th year, the Deloitte Technology Fast 500 provides a ranking of the fastest-growing technology, media, telecommunications, life sciences, fintech, and energy tech companies — both public and private — in North America. Technology Fast 500 award winners are selected based on percentage fiscal year revenue growth from 2019 to 2022.

In order to be eligible for Technology Fast 500 recognition, companies must own proprietary intellectual property or technology that is sold to customers in products that contribute to a majority of the company’s operating revenues. Companies must have base-year operating revenues of at least US$50,000, and current-year operating revenues of at least US$5 million. Additionally, companies must be in business for a minimum of four years and be headquartered within North America.

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

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SOURCE Direct Digital Holdings

Released November 13, 2023

Release – Bitcoin Depot Reports Third Quarter 2023 Financial Results

Posted on by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

Research News and Market Data on BTM

November 13, 2023 8:05 AM EST

Related Documents

Revenue of $179.5 Million, Up 3% Year-over-Year

Net Income of $1.1 Million, Down 68% Year-over-Year

Adjusted EBITDA (non-GAAP) of $13.9 Million, Up 21% Year-over-Year

Reiterates Full Year 2023 Guidance for Revenue and Adjusted EBITDA

ATLANTA, Nov. 13, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitcoin Depot Inc. (“Bitcoin Depot” or the “Company”), a U.S.-based Bitcoin ATM operator and leading fintech company, today reported financial results for the third quarter ended September 30, 2023. Bitcoin Depot will host a conference call and webcast at 11:00 a.m. ET today. An earnings presentation and link to the webcast will be made available at ir.bitcoindepot.com.

“Our results this quarter continue to demonstrate the strength of our business model and how we’re able to deliver strong results irrespective of the market environment or price of Bitcoin,” said Brandon Mintz, CEO and Founder of Bitcoin Depot. “We’ve made significant progress in advancing our growth strategy and this quarter we continued to fortify our industry-leading position with sustained strength in customer traffic and transaction volume. We remain well-positioned to capitalize on potential expansion opportunities to become the most trusted, quickest and most efficient way to purchase Bitcoin with cash across the largest network of retail locations possible.”

Third Quarter 2023 Financial Results

Revenue in the third quarter of 2023 was $179.5 million, up 3% from $174.8 million for the third quarter of 2022.

Adjusted Gross Profit, a non-GAAP measure, in the third quarter of 2023 was $26.9 million, up 26% from $21.3 million for the third quarter of 2022. Adjusted Gross Profit margin (non-GAAP) in the third quarter of 2023 was 15.0% compared to 12.2% in the third quarter of 2022.

Total operating expenses were $19.5 million for the third quarter of 2023, compared to $16.5 million for the third quarter of 2022. 

Net income for the third quarter of 2023 was $1.1 million, compared to a net income of $3.3 million for the third quarter of 2022 and a net loss of $4.0 million for the second quarter of 2023.

Adjusted EBITDA, a non-GAAP measure, in the third quarter of 2023 was $13.9 million, up 21% from the third quarter of 2022. Please see “Explanation and Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures” below.

Cash and cash equivalents were $29.7 million as of the end of the third quarter of 2023.

Recent Business Highlights

  • Amended existing PIPE Agreement dated June 23, 2023 (the “PIPE Agreement”) to accelerate the five remaining Reference Periods (as defined in the PIPE Agreement) and set the Settlement Price (as defined in the PIPE Agreement) in connection with the consummation of the proposed private sale by the Subscribers of 3,475,000 shares of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock of the Company to certain third parties.
  • Announced a share repurchase program pursuant to which Bitcoin Depot is authorized to repurchase up to $10 million of its outstanding Class A common stock through June 30, 2024.
  • Expanded BDCheckout program into 400 new locations across Iowa and Louisiana through an ongoing partnership with a leading global payments technology company with a nationwide retail network. BDCheckout is now available at 246 total locations in Iowa across a variety of convenience store partners such as Kum & Go, Kwik Trip and Pilot Travel Centers. BDCheckout is also expanding into 166 locations in Louisiana. 
  • Signed an exclusive retail partnership with Jacksons Food Stores, a nationally recognized chain of more than 300 convenience stores.
  • Hired a new Chief Technology Officer to lead software development efforts.

Guidance

Based on current market conditions, Bitcoin Depot expects consolidated revenue in 2023 to range between $700 million and $730 million, an 8% to 13% improvement compared to $647 million in 2022. Bitcoin Depot expects Adjusted EBITDA (non-GAAP) in 2023 to range between $56 million and $59 million compared to 2022 when Bitcoin Depot generated net income of $3.5 million and Adjusted EBITDA of $41 million, representing a 37% to 44% year-over-year increase in Adjusted EBITDA. For important disclosures about Adjusted EBITDA, see “Explanation and Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures” below.

Conference Call

Bitcoin Depot will hold a conference call at 11:00 a.m., Eastern time (8:00 a.m. Pacific time), today to discuss its financial results for the third quarter ended September 30, 2023.

Call Date: Monday, November 13, 2023
Time: 11:00 a.m. Eastern time (8:00 a.m. Pacific time)
U.S. dial-in: 646-307-1963
International dial-in: 800-715-9871
Conference ID: 8247570

The conference call will broadcast live and be available for replay here following the call.

Please call the conference telephone number approximately 10 minutes before the start time. An operator will register your name and organization. If you have any difficulty connecting with the conference call, please contact Bitcoin Depot’s investor relations team at 1-949-574-3860.

A replay of the call will be available beginning after 3:00 p.m. Eastern time on November 13, 2023 through November 20, 2023.

U.S. replay number: 609-800-9909
International replay number: 800-770-2030
Conference ID: 8247570

About Bitcoin Depot

Bitcoin Depot Inc. (Nasdaq: BTM) was founded in 2016 with the mission to connect those who prefer to use cash to the broader, digital financial system. Bitcoin Depot provides its users with simple, efficient and intuitive means of converting cash into Bitcoin, which users can deploy in the payments, spending and investing space. Users can convert cash to Bitcoin at Bitcoin Depot’s kiosks and at thousands of name-brand retail locations through its BDCheckout product. The Company has the largest market share in North America with approximately 6,400 kiosk locations as of September 30, 2023. Learn more at www.bitcoindepot.com.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This press release and any oral statements made in connection herewith include “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Forward-looking statements are any statements other than statements of historical fact, and include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the expectations of plans, business strategies, objectives and growth and anticipated financial and operational performance, including our growth strategy and ability to increase deployment of our products and services, our ability to strengthen our financial profile, worldwide growth in the adoption and use of cryptocurrencies, and our guidance regarding our generation of revenue and Adjusted EBITDA for 2023. These forward-looking statements are based on management’s current beliefs, based on currently available information, as to the outcome and timing of future events. Forward-looking statements are often identified by words such as “anticipate,” “appears,” “approximately,” “believe,” “continue,” “could,” “designed,” “effect,” “estimate,” “evaluate,” “expect,” “forecast,” “goal,” “initiative,” “intend,” “may,” “objective,” “outlook,” “plan,” “potential,” “priorities,” “project,” “pursue,” “seek,” “should,” “target,” “when,” “will,” “would,” or the negative of any of those words or similar expressions that predict or indicate future events or trends or that are not statements of historical matters, although not all forward-looking statements contain such identifying words. In making these statements, we rely upon assumptions and analysis based on our experience and perception of historical trends, current conditions, and expected future developments, as well as other factors we consider appropriate under the circumstances. We believe these judgments are reasonable, but these statements are not guarantees of any future events or financial results. These forward-looking statements are provided for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to serve as, and must not be relied on by any investor as, a guarantee, an assurance, a prediction or a definitive statement of fact or probability. Actual events and circumstances are difficult or impossible to predict and will differ from assumptions. Many actual events and circumstances are beyond our control.

These forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, including changes in domestic and foreign business, market, financial, political and legal conditions; failure to realize the anticipated benefits of the business combination; risks relating to the uncertainty of our projected financial information; future global, regional or local economic and market conditions; the development, effects and enforcement of laws and regulations; our ability to manage future growth; our ability to develop new products and services, bring them to market in a timely manner and make enhancements to our platform; the effects of competition on our future business; our ability to issue equity or equity-linked securities; the outcome of any potential litigation, government and regulatory proceedings, investigations and inquiries; and those factors described or referenced in filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. If any of these risks materialize or our assumptions prove incorrect, actual results could differ materially from the results implied by these forward-looking statements. There may be additional risks that we do not presently know or that we currently believe are immaterial that could also cause actual results to differ from those contained in the forward-looking statements. In addition, forward-looking statements reflect our expectations, plans or forecasts of future events and views as of the date of this press release. We anticipate that subsequent events and developments will cause our assessments to change.

We caution readers not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made, and we undertake no obligation to update publicly or otherwise revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or other factors that affect the subject of these statements, except where we are expressly required to do so by law. All written and oral forward-looking statements attributable to us are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement.


Explanation and Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures

Bitcoin Depot reports its financial results in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”). This press release includes both historical and projected Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted Gross Profit, and certain ratios and other metrics derived therefrom such as Adjusted EBITDA margin and Adjusted Gross Profit margin, which are not prepared in accordance with GAAP.

Bitcoin Depot defines Adjusted EBITDA as net income before interest expense, income tax expense, depreciation and amortization, non-recurring expenses, stock-based compensation, expenses related to the PIPE financing and miscellaneous cost adjustments. Such items are excluded from Adjusted EBITDA because these items are non-cash in nature, or because the amount and timing of these items is unpredictable, not driven by core results of operations and renders comparisons with prior periods and competitors less meaningful. In addition, Bitcoin Depot defines Adjusted Gross Profit (a non-GAAP financial measure) as revenue less cost of revenue (excluding depreciation and amortization) and depreciation and amortization adjusted to add back depreciation and amortization. Bitcoin Depot believes Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted Gross Profit each provide useful information to investors and others in understanding and evaluating Bitcoin Depot’s results of operations, as well as provide a useful measure for period-to-period comparisons of Bitcoin Depot’s business performance. Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted Gross Profit are each key measurements used internally by management to make operating decisions, including those related to operating expenses, evaluate performance and perform strategic and financial planning. However, you should be aware that Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted Gross Profit are not measures of financial performance calculated in accordance with GAAP and may exclude items that are significant in understanding and assessing Bitcoin Depot’s financial results, and further, that Bitcoin Depot may incur future expenses similar to those excluded when calculating these measures. Bitcoin Depot primarily relies on GAAP results and uses both Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted Gross Profit on a supplemental basis. Neither Adjusted EBITDA or Adjusted Gross Profit should be considered in isolation from, or as an alternative to, net income, cash flows from operations or other measures of profitability, liquidity or performance under GAAP and may not be indicative of Bitcoin Depot’s historical or future operating results. Bitcoin Depot’s computation of both Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted Gross Profit may not be comparable to other similarly titled measures computed by other companies because not all companies calculate such measures in the same fashion. As such, undue reliance should not be placed on such measures.

Due to the high variability and difficulty in making accurate forecasts and projections of some of the information excluded from the projections of Adjusted EBITDA, together with some of the excluded information not being ascertainable or accessible, Bitcoin Depot is unable to quantify certain amounts that would be required to be included in the most directly comparable GAAP financial measures without unreasonable effort. Consequently, no disclosure of estimated comparable GAAP measures is included and no reconciliation of the forward-looking non-GAAP financial measures is included.

The following table presents a reconciliation of revenue to Adjusted EBITDA for the periods indicated:

Contacts:

Investors 
Cody Slach, Alex Kovtun 
Gateway Group, Inc. 
949-574-3860 
BTM@gateway-grp.com

Media 
Zach Kadletz, Brenlyn Motlagh, Ryan Deloney 
Gateway Group, Inc.
949-574-3860 
BTM@gateway-grp.com

Source: Bitcoin Depot Inc.

Released November 13, 2023

Release – Cocrystal Pharma Reports Third Quarter 2023 Financial Results and Provides Updates on its Antiviral Drug Development Programs

Posted on by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

Research News and Market Data on COCP

NOVEMBER 13, 2023

  • Enrollment underway in Phase 1 trial with novel protease inhibitor CDI-988, the first potential dual coronavirus-norovirus oral antiviral
  • Dosing expected to begin later this year in Phase 2a human challenge trial with oral CC-42344 for the treatment of pandemic and seasonal influenza A
  • Phase 1 trial with inhaled CC-42344 expected to begin in the first half of 2024

BOTHELL, Wash., Nov. 13, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Cocrystal Pharma, Inc. (Nasdaq: COCP) (Cocrystal or the Company) reports financial results for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023, and provides updates on its antiviral pipeline, upcoming milestones and business activities.

“We are making excellent progress in the clinical development of potent antivirals that address some of the world’s leading viral diseases,” said Sam Lee, Ph.D., President and co-CEO of Cocrystal. “With our novel oral PB2 inhibitor CC-42344 for the treatment of pandemic and seasonal influenza A, we expect to dose the first subjects in a Phase 2a human challenge study before year-end. We also are on track to begin a Phase 1 healthy volunteer trial in the first half of 2024 with inhaled CC-42344 as a potential therapeutic and prophylactic treatment for influenza A.

“Enrollment is underway in a Phase 1 trial with our first-in-class pan-coronavirus and pan-norovirus protease inhibitor CDI-988,” added Dr. Lee. “This oral potent antiviral candidate could reduce severity and death from pandemic outbreaks of highly contagious viral infections. CDI-988 has shown activity against multiple coronavirus and norovirus strains, including the genogroup II, genotype 4 (GII.4) norovirus strain, which is responsible for major norovirus outbreaks. With no approved treatments or vaccines, norovirus represents a significant unmet medical need.”

“With three clinical-stage antiviral programs in high-value unmet medical indications, the coming year promises to be active and potentially transformational for Cocrystal,” said James Martin, CFO and co-CEO. “I’m pleased to report that under our cost-efficient business model, we believe our current cash position is sufficient to fund planned operations beyond the next 12 months.”

Antiviral Product Pipeline Overview

We are developing therapeutics that inhibit the viral replication function of RNA viruses that cause acute and chronic diseases. Our drug-discovery process focuses on the highly conserved regions of the viral enzymes and inhibitor-enzyme interactions at the atomic level. By designing and selecting antiviral drug candidates that interrupt the viral replication process and have specific binding characteristics, we seek to develop drugs that are effective against the virus and mutants of the virus, and also have reduced off-target interactions that may cause undesirable side effects. Our drug discovery process differs from traditional, empirical medicinal chemistry approaches that often require iterative high-throughput compound screening and lengthy hit-to-lead processes.

Influenza Programs

Influenza is a severe respiratory illness caused by the influenza A or B virus that results in disease outbreaks mainly during the winter months. Influenza is a major global health threat that may become more challenging to treat in the future due to the emergence of highly pathogenic avian influenza viruses and resistance to approved influenza antivirals.

Each year there are approximately 1 billion cases of seasonal influenza worldwide, 3-5 million severe illnesses and up to 650,000 deaths, according to the World Health Organization. On average about 8% of the U.S. population contracts influenza each season. In addition to the health risk, influenza is responsible for approximately $10.4 billion in direct costs for hospitalizations and outpatient visits for adults in the U.S. annually.

  • Pandemic and Seasonal Influenza A
    • Our novel oral PB2 inhibitor CC-42344 has shown excellent in vitro antiviral activity against influenza A strains including pandemic and seasonal strains, as well as strains that are resistant to Tamiflu® and Xofluza®.
    • In March 2022 we initiated enrollment in a randomized, double-controlled, dose-escalating Phase 1 trial to evaluate the safety, tolerability and pharmacokinetics (PK) of orally administered CC-42344 in healthy adults.
    • In July 2022 we reported PK results from the single-ascending dose portion of the trial that support once-daily dosing.
    • In December 2022 we reported favorable safety and tolerability results from the CC-42344 Phase 1 trial.
    • In October 2023 we announced authorization from the United Kingdom Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency to conduct a Phase 2a human challenge trial and we expect to begin treating influenza-infected subjects in this trial during the fourth quarter of 2023.
    • Preclinical development is underway with inhaled CC-42344 as a potential therapeutic treatment and prophylaxis for influenza A. We expect to begin a Phase 1 clinical trial with inhaled CC-42344 in Australia in the first half of 2024.

  • Pandemic and Seasonal Influenza A/B Program


    • In January 2019 we entered into an Exclusive License and Research Collaboration Agreement with Merck Sharp & Dohme Corp. (Merck) to discover and develop certain proprietary influenza antiviral agents that are effective against influenza A and B strains. This agreement includes milestone payments of up to $156 million plus royalties on sales of products discovered under the agreement.
    • In January 2021 we announced completion of all research obligations under the agreement, making Merck solely responsible for further preclinical and clinical development of these compounds.
    • In early 2023 Merck notified us of its intent to continue development of the compounds discovered under this agreement and of their filing on behalf of both companies of multiple U.S. and international patent applications associated with these compounds. Merck continues to be responsible for managing the patents.

COVID-19 and Other Coronavirus Programs

By targeting viral replication enzymes and protease, we believe it is possible to develop effective treatments for all diseases caused by coronaviruses including COVID-19, Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) and Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS). Our main SARS-CoV-2 protease inhibitors showed potent in vitro pan-viral activity against common human coronaviruses, rhinoviruses and respiratory enteroviruses that cause the common cold, as well as against noroviruses that can cause symptoms of acute gastroenteritis. Driven by the anticipated emergence of new COVID-19 variants, the global COVID-19 therapeutics market is estimated to exceed $16 billion by the end of 2031.

  • Oral Protease Inhibitor CDI-988
    • In October 2022 we announced the selection of CDI-988 as our lead candidate for development as a potential oral treatment for SARS-CoV-2. Designed and developed using our proprietary structure-based drug discovery platform technology, CDI-988 targets a highly conserved region in the active site of SARS-CoV-2 3CL (main) protease required for viral RNA replication.
    • CDI-988 exhibited superior in vitro potency against SARS-CoV-2 with activity maintained against variants of concern, and demonstrated a safety profile and PK properties that support once-daily dosing.
    • In May 2023 we announced approval of our application to the Australian regulatory agency for a planned randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled Phase 1 trial to evaluate the safety, tolerability and PK of oral CDI-988 in healthy volunteers.
    • In September 2023 we dosed the first subject in the CDI-988 Phase 1 trial.

  • Intranasal/Pulmonary Protease Inhibitor CDI-45205


    • CDI-45205 is our novel SARS-CoV-2 3CL (main) protease inhibitor and was among the broad-spectrum viral protease inhibitors we obtained from Kansas State University Research Foundation (KSURF) under an exclusive license agreement announced in April 2020. We believe the protease inhibitors obtained from KSURF have the ability to convert the inactive SARS-CoV-2 polymerase replication enzymes into an active form.
    • CDI-45205 and several analogs showed potent in vitro activity against the main SARS-CoV-2 variants, surpassing the activity observed with the original Wuhan strain of the virus.
    • CDI-45205 delivered via intraperitoneal injection demonstrated good bioavailability in mouse and rat PK studies, and no cytotoxicity against a variety of human cell lines. CDI-45205 also demonstrated a strong synergistic effect with the FDA-approved COVID-19 medicine remdesivir.
    • In January 2022 we received guidance from the FDA regarding further preclinical and clinical development of CDI-45205.

Norovirus Program

Norovirus is a highly contagious infection and is the most common cause of acute gastroenteritis, accounting for nearly one in five cases. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), an estimated 685 million cases and an estimated 200,000 deaths are attributed to norovirus each year worldwide, with an estimated societal cost of $60 billion.

  • In August 2023 we announced our selection of the novel broad-spectrum 3CL protease inhibitor CDI-988 as our lead potential oral treatment for norovirus. CDI-988 is being evaluated in a first-in-human trial in healthy volunteers in Australia. The CDI-988 trial is expected to serve as a Phase 1 trial for both our norovirus and our coronavirus programs.
  • In September 2023 we dosed the first subject in our dual norovirus-coronavirus oral CDI-988 Phase 1 trial.

Third Quarter Financial Results

Research and development (R&D) expenses for the third quarter of 2023 were $4.2 million, compared with $3.9 million for the third quarter of 2022. The increase was primarily due to the influenza CC-42344 product candidate moving into a Phase 2a clinical trial and the ongoing Phase 1 clinical trial of CDI-988 for norovirus-coronavirus. General and administrative (G&A) expenses for the third quarters of 2023 and 2022 were relatively stable at $1.8 million.

During the third quarter of 2023, the Company received a $1.6 million refund from the registry of the court reflecting the recovery of funds following a successful appeal in the Company’s litigation with an insurer, which created a positive impact by reducing operating expenses by that amount.

Total other income, net for the third quarter of 2023 was $0.3 million, which was primarily related to interest earned on cash in bank accounts. This compared with minimal other expense, net for the third quarter of 2022.

The net loss for the third quarter of 2023 was $4.2 million, or $0.41 per share, compared with the net loss for the third quarter of 2022 of $5.7 million, or $0.70 per share.

Nine Month Financial Results

R&D expenses for the nine months ended September 30, 2023 were $10.9 million, compared with $9.1 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2022, with the increase primarily due to clinical advancement of our Influenza A and norovirus-coronavirus programs. G&A expenses for the first nine months of 2023 were $4.6 million, compared with $4.5 million for the first nine months of 2022.

During the first nine months of 2023, the Company received a $1.6 million refund from the registry of the court, as noted above. The Company obtained a summary judgment during the second quarter of 2022 and accounted for a potential $1.6 million adverse award by expensing the same amount during the first nine months of 2022.

During the first nine months of 2022, the Company recorded a $19.1 million non-cash goodwill impairment. There was no comparable impairment charge during the first nine months of 2023.

Total other income, net for the first nine months of 2023 was $0.4 million, compared with minimal other expense, net for the first nine months of 2022.

The net loss for the nine months ended September 30, 2023 was $13.5 million, or $1.43 per share. The net loss for the nine months ended September 30, 2022 was $34.3 million, or $4.23 per share, and reflected the litigation expense and non-cash impairment charge described above.

Cocrystal reported unrestricted cash as of September 30, 2023 of $29.7 million, compared with $37.1 million as of December 31, 2022. Net cash used in operating activities for the first nine months of 2023 was $11.3 million, compared to $16.5 million for the first nine months of 2022. The Company had working capital of $30.3 million and 10.2 million common shares outstanding as of September 30, 2023.

About Cocrystal Pharma, Inc.

Cocrystal Pharma, Inc. is a clinical-stage biotechnology company discovering and developing novel antiviral therapeutics that target the replication process of influenza viruses, coronaviruses (including SARS-CoV-2), noroviruses and hepatitis C viruses. Cocrystal employs unique structure-based technologies and Nobel Prize-winning expertise to create first- and best-in-class antiviral drugs. For further information about Cocrystal, please visit www.cocrystalpharma.com.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including statements regarding our plans for the future development of preclinical and clinical drug candidates, our expectations regarding future characteristics of the product candidates we develop, the expected time of achieving certain value-driving milestones in our programs, including, preparation, commencement and advancement of clinical studies for certain product candidates in 2023 and beyond, the viability and efficacy of potential treatments for diseases our product candidates are designed to treat, expectations for the markets for certain therapeutics, our ability to execute our clinical and regulatory goals and deploy regulatory guidance towards future studies, the expected sufficiency of our cash balance to advance our programs and fund our planned operations, and our liquidity. The words “believe,” “may,” “estimate,” “continue,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “should,” “plan,” “could,” “target,” “potential,” “is likely,” “will,” “expect” and similar expressions, as they relate to us, are intended to identify forward-looking statements. We have based these forward-looking statements largely on our current expectations and projections about future events. Some or all of the events anticipated by these forward-looking statements may not occur. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ from those in the forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, the risks and uncertainties arising from interest rate increases in response to inflation, uncertainty in the financial markets, the possibility of a recession and geopolitical conflict in Ukraine and Israel on our Company, our collaboration partners, and on the U.S., UK, Australia and global economies, including manufacturing and research delays arising from raw materials and labor shortages, supply chain disruptions and other business interruptions on our ability to proceed with studies as well as similar problems with our vendors and our current and any future clinical research organization (CROs) and contract manufacturing organizations (CMOs), the ability of our CROs to recruit volunteers for, and to proceed with, clinical studies, our reliance on Merck for further development in the influenza A/B program under the license and collaboration agreement, our and our collaboration partners’ technology and software performing as expected, financial difficulties experienced by certain partners, the results of any current and future preclinical and clinical trials, general risks arising from clinical trials, receipt of regulatory approvals, regulatory changes, development of effective treatments and/or vaccines by competitors, including as part of the programs financed by the U.S. government, potential mutations in a virus we are targeting that may result in variants that are resistant to a product candidate we develop, and the outcome of the ongoing litigation with the insurance company. Further information on our risk factors is contained in our filings with the SEC, including our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2022. Any forward-looking statement made by us herein speaks only as of the date on which it is made. Factors or events that could cause our actual results to differ may emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for us to predict all of them. We undertake no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as may be required by law.

Investor Contact:
LHA Investor Relations
Jody Cain
310-691-7100
jcain@lhai.com

Media Contact:
JQA Partners
Jules Abraham
917-885-7378
Jabraham@jqapartners.com

Financial Tables to follow

 COCRYSTAL PHARMA, INC.

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(in thousands)

  September 30, 2023  December 31, 2022 
  (unaudited)    
Assets        
Current assets:        
Cash $29,738  $37,144 
Restricted cash  75   75 
Tax credit receivable  550   716 
Prepaid expenses and other current assets  1,842   2,243 
Total current assets  32,205   40,178 
Property and equipment, net  252   342 
Deposits  46   46 
Operating lease right-of-use assets, net (including $57 and $99 respectively, to related party)  111   274 
Total assets $32,614  $40,840 
         
Liabilities and stockholders’ equity        
Current liabilities:        
Accounts payable and accrued expenses $1,806  $976 
Current maturities of finance lease liabilities  –   7 
Current maturities of operating lease liabilities (including $57 and $59 respectively, to related party)  118   233 
Total current liabilities  1,924   1,216 
Long-term liabilities:        
         
Operating lease liabilities (including $0 and $42 respectively, to related party)  –   57 
         
Total liabilities  1,924   1,273 
         
Commitments and contingencies        
         
Stockholders’ equity:        
Common stock, $0.001 par value 150,000 shares authorized as of September 30, 2023, and December 31, 2022; 10,174 and 8,143 shares issued and outstanding as of September 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022  10   8 
Additional paid-in capital  342,130   337,489 
Accumulated deficit  (311,450)  (297,930)
Total stockholders’ equity  30,690   39,567 
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity $32,614  $40,840 

COCRYSTAL PHARMA, INC.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(unaudited)
(in thousands, except per share data)

  Three months ended September 30,  Nine months ended September 30, 
  2023  2022  2023  2022 
Operating expenses:                
Research and development  4,194   3,872   10,902   9,105 
General and administrative  1,849   1,822   4,591   4,530 
Legal settlement  (1,600)  –   (1,600)  1,600 
Impairments  –   –   –   19,092 
Total operating expenses  4,443   5,694   13,893   34,327 
                 
Loss from operations  (4,443)  (5,694)  (13,893)  (34,327)
Other income (expense):                
Interest income (expense), net  320   (1)  460   (2)
Foreign exchange loss  (42)  (5)  (87)  (19)
Change in fair value of derivative liabilities  –   –   –   12 
Total other income (expense), net  278   (6)  373   (9)
Net loss $(4,165) $(5,700)  (13,520)  (34,336)
Net loss per common share, basic and diluted $(0.41) $(0.70)  (1.43)  (4.23)
Weighted average number of common shares,  10,153   8,143   9,461   8,143 
basic and diluted                

# # #

Source: Cocrystal Pharma, Inc.

Released November 13, 2023

Release – Tonix Pharmaceuticals Announces Enrollment Initiated in Mass General Brigham Phase 2 Investigator-Initiated Study of TNX-1900 (Intranasal Potentiated Oxytocin) for Bone Health in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Posted on by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

Research News and Market Data on TNXP

November 13, 2023 7:00am EST

Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder are at Risk for Low Bone Density

Preliminary Data Suggest that the Administration of Oxytocin May Favorably Impact Bone Formation and Strength

Recent Meta-Analysis Reported that Plasma Oxytocin Levels Tend to be Lower in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder than Controls1

CHATHAM, N.J., Nov. 13, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Tonix Pharmaceuticals Holding Corp. (Nasdaq: TNXP) (Tonix or the Company), a biopharmaceutical company with marketed products and a pipeline of development candidates, today announced that the first participant was enrolled in an investigator-initiated Phase 2 study of TNX-1900 (intranasal potentiated oxytocin) for improving bone health in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), named the BOX study, at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH). The aim of this Department of Defense-funded study is to investigate the efficacy and safety of TNX-1900 as a novel therapeutic agent to increase bone density and improve bone structure and strength in children with ASD. Tonix is providing active drug and placebo for the BOX study as part of a drug donation agreement with MGH. MGH is the sponsor of the trial, which is being conducted under an investigator-initiated investigational new drug (IND) application.

“Low bone density in ASD is a serious problem,” said Seth Lederman, M.D., Chief Executive Officer of Tonix Pharmaceuticals. “Intranasal potentiated oxytocin is a potential treatment option that addresses the biology of bone loss specific to ASD which is different from osteoporosis in post-menopausal women. Intranasal oxytocin has a long history of being tested for the treatment of ASD, but results have been inconsistent. Tonix’s magnesium-potentiated intranasal oxytocin is designed to improve consistency in clinical effects, because it reduces the ‘high-dose’ inhibition seen in the ‘inverted U’ dose response in animals.”2

Madhusmita Misra, M.D., MPH, Chief, Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics, Mass General for Children, and principal investigator of the study said, “The childhood and adolescent years are critical for bone mass accrual towards achievement of peak bone mass, a key determinant of future bone health and fracture risk. Preliminary data show that over a four-year period, children with ASD fail to catch-up with typically developing children for bone health measures despite optimizing calcium and vitamin D intake3. The difference between these groups often becomes more drastic over time.”

Elizabeth A. Lawson, M.D., M.M.Sc., Director, Interdisciplinary Oxytocin Research Program in the Neuroendocrine Unit, Department of Medicine, MGH, who is a co-investigator on the study continued, “Preclinical studies indicate that, in addition to its known central prosocial effects,4 oxytocin is an important mediator of bone homeostasis, promoting bone formation over resorption.5-7 Pilot data indicate strong associations between low levels of oxytocin and worse bone health in both sexes and across clinical populations, supporting the critical role of oxytocin in bone metabolism.”8-11

“Preclinical studies and some clinical trials have shown prosocial effects of oxytocin in individuals with autism,” reported Ann Neumeyer, M.D., Medical Director of Lurie Center for Autism, Department of Pediatrics and Neurology, Mass General for Children and also a co-investigator. “This research study will further investigate effects of oxytocin on social impairment associated with autism as a secondary outcome.”12   

Dr. Lederman continued, “Given the increasing prevalence of ASD in children and its association with impaired bone health, lower oxytocin levels in those with ASD than neurotypical controls, and preclinical data showing that oxytocin can favorably impact bone health, a study examining the role of oxytocin in improving bone health in children with ASD is both timely and essential.”

The Phase 2 investigator-initiated BOX study is a randomized, placebo-controlled study to evaluate the effects of twice daily administration of TNX-1900 on bone measures in children with ASD. Study subjects, ages six to 18 years old, will be randomized 1:1 to receive TNX-1900 twice per day or placebo for 12 months in the double-blind phase, followed by a six-month open label phase during which all study subjects will receive TNX-1900 twice daily. The primary endpoint is the difference between TNX-1900 compared to placebo groups in 12-month change in whole body less head bone mineral density Z-scores. A Z-score compares one’s bone density to the average bone density of age and gender matched controls.

  1. John S and Jaeggi, AV. Autism. 2021. 25:2152-2161.
  2. Bharadwaj VN, et al. Pharmaceutics. 2022. 14(5):1105.
  3. Neumeyer AM, et al. J Pediatr. 2017. 181:195-201 e196.5274559
  4. Marsh N, et al. Neuroscientist. 2021. 27(6):604-619.
  5. Tamma R, et al. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2009. 106:7149-7154.
  6. Colucci S, et al. Biochem Biophys Res Commun. 2002. 297:442-445.
  7. Copland JA, et al. Endocrinology. 1999. 140:4371-4374.
  8. Fazeli PK, et al. J Clin Psychiatry. 2018. 79:17m11585.
  9. Lawson EA, et al. J Clin Psychiatry. 2011. 72:1546-1551.
  10. Aulinas A, et al. Neuroendocrinology. 2021. 111:87-98.
  11. Bachrach LK. Trends Endocrinol Metab. 2001. 12:22-28.
  12. Hu L, et al. Eur J Clin Pharmacol. 2023. doi: 10.1007/s00228-023-03545-w. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 37540265.

About TNX-1900

TNX-1900 (intranasal potentiated oxytocin) is a proprietary formulation of oxytocin in development as a candidate for prevention of chronic migraine and other conditions. In 2020, TNX-1900 was acquired from Trigemina, Inc. who had licensed the technology underlying the composition and method from Stanford University. TNX-1900 is a drug-device combination product, based on an intranasal actuator device that delivers oxytocin into the nasal cavity. Oxytocin is a naturally occurring human peptide hormone that also acts as a neurotransmitter within the central nervous system (CNS). Oxytocin has no recognized addiction potential. It has been observed that low oxytocin levels in the body are associated with increases in migraine headache frequency, and that increased oxytocin levels are associated with fewer migraine headaches. Certain other chronic pain conditions are also associated with decreased oxytocin levels. Migraine attacks are caused, in part, by the activity of pain-sensing trigeminal neurons which, when activated, release calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) which binds to receptors on other nerve cells and starts a cascade of events that is believed to result in headache. Oxytocin when delivered via the nasal route, concentrates in the trigeminal system1 resulting in binding of oxytocin to receptors on neurons in the trigeminal system, inhibiting the release of CGRP and transmission of pain signals returning from the site of CGRP release.2 Blocking CGRP release is a distinct mechanism compared with CGRP antagonist and anti-CGRP antibody drugs, which block the binding of CGRP to its receptor. With TNX-1900, the addition of magnesium to the oxytocin formulation enhances oxytocin receptor binding3 as well as oxytocin’s inhibitory effects on trigeminal neurons and resultant craniofacial analgesic effects, as demonstrated in animal models4. Intranasal oxytocin has been shown to be well tolerated in several clinical trials in both adults and children5. Targeted nasal delivery results in low systemic exposure and lower risk of non-CNS, off-target effects, which could potentially occur with systemic CGRP antagonists such as anti-CGRP antibodies6. For example, CGRP has roles in dilating blood vessels in response to ischemia, including in the heart. The Company believes nasally-targeted delivery of oxytocin could translate into selective blockade of CGRP release from neurons in the trigeminal ganglion and not throughout the body, which could be a potential safety advantage over systemic CGRP inhibition. In addition, daily dosing is more rapidly reversible, in contrast to monthly or quarterly dosing, as is the case with anti-CGRP antibodies, giving physicians and patients greater control. In addition to chronic migraine, TNX-1900 will be developed for treatment of episodic migraine, binge eating disorder, and craniofacial pain conditions. Tonix also has a license with the University of Geneva for the use of TNX-1900 in the treatment of insulin resistance and related conditions.

About TNX-2900

TNX-2900 is another intranasal potentiated oxytocin-based therapeutic candidate, being developed for the treatment of Prader-Willi syndrome, or PWS. The technology for TNX-2900 was licensed from the French National Institute of Health and Medical Research. PWS, an orphan condition, is a rare genetic disorder of failure to thrive in infancy, associated with uncontrolled appetite later in childhood.

1. Yeomans DC, et al. Transl Psychiatry. 2021. 11(1):388.
2. Tzabazis A, et al. Cephalalgia. 2016. 36(10):943-50.
3. Antoni FA and Chadio SE. Biochem J. 1989. 257(2):611-4.
4. Cai Q, et al., Psychiatry Clin Neurosci. 2018. 72(3):140-151.
5. Yeomans, DC et al. 2017. US patent US2017368095
6. MaassenVanDenBrink A, et al. Trends Pharmacol Sci. 2016. 37(9):779-788

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 portfolio 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, and topline results were reported in the third quarter of 2023. TNX-1900 (intranasal potentiated oxytocin), is in development as a preventive treatment in chronic migraine, and enrollment has completed 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, including TNX-1800, in development as a vaccine to protect against COVID-19. During the fourth quarter of 2023, TNX-1800 was selected by the U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH), National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) Project NextGen for inclusion in Phase 1 clinical trials. The infectious disease development portfolio also includes TNX-3900 and TNX-4000, which are classes of broad-spectrum small molecule oral antivirals.

*Tonix’s product development candidates are investigational new drugs or biologics and have not been approved for any indication.

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 property of their respective owners.

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

Forward Looking Statements

Certain statements in this press release are forward-looking within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including the intended use of proceeds from the public offering and other statements that are predictive in nature. 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; risks related to the failure to successfully market any of our products; 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 November 13, 2023

YS Biopharma Co., Ltd. (YS) – Tapping Into The Power Of The Immune System

Posted on by cpereira@noblefcm.com


Monday, November 13, 2023

https://www.ysbiopharm.comSector(s): Healthcare Industry: Biotechnology Full Time Employees: 865 Key Executives Name Title Pay Exercised Year Born Dr. Hui Shao Pres, CEO & Exec. Director N/A N/A 1969 Ms. Chunyuan Wu Chief Financial Officer

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

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

PIKA Immunomodulating Platform.  The novel PIKA technology has the capability to target and accelerate the immune response in a wide variety of vaccines and immuno-oncology therapeutics. PIKA activates and enhances the body’s immune response, increasing the effectiveness of vaccines. In immuno-oncology, with its multiple modes of action able to induce the production of multiple tumor-inhibitory cytokines and tumor cell apoptosis, PIKA could be applied to broad-spectrum anti-tumor activity in cancers.  

Significant Opportunities in Anti-Viral and Immuno-Oncology Markets. There are large unmet needs in Africa, Southeast Asia and China, among other parts of the world, in rabies, hepatitis B and cancers. The Asia-Pacific region is expected to have the highest growth rate in the world with higher levels of utilization of immunotherapies, driven by low vaccine penetration, increasing cancer prevalence, and improving patient awareness and disposable income.


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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. 

One Stop Systems (OSS) – Reports Third Quarter 2023 Results

Posted on by cpereira@noblefcm.com


Monday, November 13, 2023

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

Joe Gomes, Managing Director, 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.

3Q23 Results. Revenue came in at $13.7 million, slightly above our $13.5 million estimate, but down 27% y-o-y, reflecting the continued runoff of the Disguise business, which contributed $4.3 million of revenue in the year ago quarter. Higher operating expenses, including some one-time items, drove a net loss of $3.6 million, or a loss of $0.18/sh in the quarter, compared to net income of $132,533, or EPS of $0.01 last year. Adjusted loss was $0.03/sh compared to EPS of $0.03 last year. We had forecasted a loss of $0.10/sh.

Unique Position. We continue to believe OSS has carved out a unique position in the robust growth markets driven by artificial intelligence and sensor fusion, particularly in rugged high-performance compute demand at the Edge. Management remains committed to expanding efforts to secure new prime contractors, vehicle platforms, and multiyear contracts, both domestically and internationally.


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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. 

Kelly Services (KELYA) – Moving Forward with Transformation in Challenging Environment

Posted on by cpereira@noblefcm.com


Monday, November 13, 2023

Kelly (Nasdaq: KELYA, KELYB) connects talented people to companies in need of their skills in areas including Science, Engineering, Education, Office, Contact Center, Light Industrial, and more. We’re always thinking about what’s next in the evolving world of work, and we help people ditch the script on old ways of thinking and embrace the value of all workstyles in the workplace. We directly employ nearly 350,000 people around the world and connect thousands more with work through our global network of talent suppliers and partners in our outsourcing and consulting practice. Revenue in 2021 was $4.9 billion. Visit kellyservices.com and let us help with what’s next for you.

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.

3Q23 Results. Revenue of $1,118 million was down 4.3% y-o-y and down 5.8% on a constant currency basis. We had estimated $1,180 million. The Company incurred $15.4 million of transformation expenses in the quarter. Adjusted net income was $18.1 million or EPS of $0.50. We had estimated EPS of $0.28. Adjusted EBITDA was $25.5 million, or a 2.3% margin.

Transformation. Kelly continues to move ahead with the transformation plan, already eliminating a significant amount of expenses. We expect the transformation to position Kelly to accelerate profitable growth over the long-term with improved adjusted EBITDA margins.


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. 

Comtech Telecommunications (CMTL) – New Contract; Completed Sale

Posted on by cpereira@noblefcm.com


Monday, November 13, 2023

Comtech Telecommunications Corp. engages in the design, development, production, and marketing of products, systems, and services for advanced communications solutions in the United States and internationally. It operates in three segments: Telecommunications Transmission, Mobile Data Communications, and RF Microwave Amplifiers. The Telecommunications Transmission segment provides satellite earth station equipment and systems, over-the-horizon microwave systems, and forward error correction technology, which are used in various commercial and government applications, including backhaul of wireless and cellular traffic, broadcasting (including HDTV), IP-based communications traffic, long distance telephony, and secure defense applications. The Mobile Data Communications segment provides mobile satellite transceivers, and computers and satellite earth station network gateways and associated installation, training, and maintenance services; supplies and operates satellite packet data networks, including arranging and providing satellite capacity; and offers microsatellites and related components. The RF Microwave Amplifiers segment designs, develops, manufactures, and markets satellite earth station traveling wave tube amplifiers (TWTA) and broadband amplifiers. Its amplifiers are used in broadcast and broadband satellite communication; defense applications, such as telecommunications systems and electronic warfare systems; and commercial applications comprising oncology treatment systems, as well as to amplify signals carrying voice, video, or data for air-to-satellite-to-ground communications. The company serves satellite systems integrators, wireless and other communication service providers, broadcasters, defense contractors, military, governments, and oil companies. Comtech markets its products through independent representatives and value-added resellers. The company was founded in 1967 and is headquartered in Melville, New York.

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.

New Order. Comtech announced a $20.0 million order from the Company’s UK-based partner, Spectra Group. The order will allow Spectra Group, the appointed regional distributor of Comtech’s Compact Over-the-Horizon Transportable Terminal (COMET), to service multiple orders already received, and several expected follow-on orders from undisclosed customers in the NATO and European regions. In September 2023, Spectra Group announced the receipt of a $8.0 million order from UK MoD to equip 3 (UK) Division with Comtech’s COMET systems.

COMET. The COMET system is designed to be easily integrated with other Department of Defense (DoD) and coalition tactical, mobile, and fixed communications systems to provide resilient, secure beyond-line-of-sight (BLOS) capabilities in some of the world’s most challenging environments.


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. 

Crescent Point Bolsters Alberta Montney Position With $2.55B Hammerhead Acquisition

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

Crescent Point Energy has entered into an agreement to acquire fellow Canadian oil producer Hammerhead Resources in an all-stock deal valued at approximately $2.55 billion. The deal will expand Crescent Point’s presence in the Alberta Montney, adding over 100,000 contiguous net acres directly adjacent to its existing land position.

Under the terms, Hammerhead shareholders will receive 0.46 share of Crescent Point common stock and $21.00 cash for each Hammerhead share. That values Hammerhead at around $45,500 per flowing barrel of production.

Strategic Fit Strengthens Key Focus Areas

The acquisition solidifies Crescent Point’s dominant position in two of Canada’s premier unconventional oil plays. It becomes the largest landholder in both the Alberta Montney and Kaybob Duvernay resource plays.

Crescent Point gains over 800 net high-value drilling locations in the Montney through the deal. This boosts its total premium inventory depth to over 20 years, creating a strong long-term growth profile.

The acquired Montney lands also carry attractive royalty rates and have promising geological characteristics analogous to Crescent Point’s existing acreage. Horizontal drilling and completions technologies have unlocked the vast resource potential of the Montney in recent years.

Significant infrastructure owned by Hammerhead, including oil batteries, water disposal, and gas gathering lines, will also transfer over and support growth plans.

Immediate Impact on Cash Flow and Dividend

According to Crescent Point’s estimates, the deal will increase excess cash flow per share by over 15% on average from 2023-2027. This comes atop the company’s existing 5-10% organic growth outlook.

The increased cash generation provides support for a 15% dividend hike to $0.46 annually upon closing the acquisition. Crescent Point’s balance sheet remains a priority, with net debt expected to decline to 1.1x adjusted funds flow by year-end 2024.

Hammerhead’s current production of 56,000 boe/d (50% oil) is expected to increase to over 80,000 boe/d by 2024. With Hammerhead’s low-decline asset base, Crescent Point sees minimal stabilization capital required to sustain output.

Consolidation Creates Scale

Pro-forma the acquisition, Crescent Point will become Canada’s 7th largest energy producer pumping over 200,000 boe/d. The increased scale provides improved access to capital and potential cost efficiencies.

The company also gains key personnel from Hammerhead to further enhance technical and operational expertise across asset teams.

CEO Craig Bryksa said the deal transforms Crescent Point into a Montney and Duvernay focused producer, complemented by its Saskatchewan assets. The consolidation “is an integral part of our overall portfolio transformation,” Bryksa noted.

Crescent Point says its near-term priorities now center on integrating Hammerhead efficiently, executing planned programs, strengthening its balance sheet, and returning increasing capital to shareholders.

For Hammerhead, the transaction provides liquidity after joining the private equity backed company just two years ago. It also positions shareholders to participate in Crescent Point’s significant free cash flow growth in the coming years.

Subject to shareholder, court, and regulatory approvals, the acquisition is expected to close in Q4 2022. The deal will cement Crescent Point’s standing as a dominant Montney producer and provides visible growth underpinned by its expanded low-risk drilling inventory.

Take a moment to take a look at Noble Capital Markets’ Senior Research Analyst Michael Heim’s coverage list.

Release – InPlay Receives TSX Approval to Renew its Normal Course Issuer Bid

Posted on by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

Research News and Market Data on IPOOF

10 Nov, 2023, 08:00 ET

CALGARY, AB, Nov. 9, 2023 /CNW/ – InPlay Oil Corp. (TSX: IPO) (OTCQX: IPOOF) (“InPlay” or the “Company“) today announced that the Toronto Stock Exchange (“TSX“) has accepted InPlay’s notice of intention to renew its normal course issuer bid for a further one year term (the “NCIB“). The previous NCIB expired on October 16, 2023. Pursuant to the Company’s previous NCIB, the Company purchased in the open market through the facilities of the TSX and through other alternative Canadian trading platforms and cancelled an aggregate of 190,400 common shares (“Common Shares“) of the Company at an average price paid of $2.84 per Common Share.

Under the NCIB, InPlay may purchase for cancellation, from time to time, as InPlay considers advisable, up to a maximum of 6,637,064 Common Shares, which represents 10% of the Company’s public float of 66,370,643 Common Shares as at October 31, 2023. As of the same date, InPlay had 90,925,401 Common Shares issued and outstanding. Purchases of Common Shares may be made on the open market through the facilities of the TSX and through other alternative Canadian trading platforms at the prevailing market price at the time of such transaction. The actual number of Common Shares that may be purchased for cancellation and the timing of any such purchases will be determined by InPlay, subject to a maximum daily purchase limitation of 43,809 Common Shares which equates to 25% of InPlay’s average daily trading volume of 175,239 Common Shares for the six months ended October 31, 2023. InPlay may make one block purchase per calendar week which exceeds the daily repurchase restrictions. Any Common Shares that are purchased by InPlay under the NCIB will be cancelled.

The NCIB will commence on November 14, 2023 and will terminate on November 13, 2024 or such earlier time as the NCIB is completed or terminated at the option of InPlay. 

InPlay believes that renewing the NCIB is a prudent step in this volatile energy market environment, when at times, the prevailing market price does not reflect the underlying value of its Common Shares. The timely repurchase of the Company’s Common Shares for cancellation represents confidence in the long term prospects and sustainability of its business model. This reduction in share count adds per share value to InPlay’s shareholders and adds another tool to management’s disciplined capital allocation strategy.

With the base dividend of $0.015/share per month, NCIB share repurchases and the Company’s continued efforts towards towards overall production per share growth, InPlay will be able to continue with its strategy of providing strong returns to shareholders.   

About InPlay Oil Corp.

InPlay Oil is a junior oil and gas exploration and production company with operations in Alberta focused on light oil production. The Company operates long-lived, low-decline properties with drilling development and enhanced oil recovery potential as well as undeveloped lands with exploration possibilities. The Common Shares on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol IPO and the OTCQX under the symbol IPOOF.

For further information please contact:

Doug Bartole
President and Chief Executive Officer
InPlay Oil Corp.
Telephone: (587) 955-0632		Darren Dittmer
Chief Financial Officer
InPlay Oil Corp.
Telephone: (587) 955-0634

Caution Regarding Forward-Looking Statements 

This news release contains certain statements that may constitute forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities laws. This information includes, but is not limited to InPlay’s intentions with respect to the NCIB and purchases thereunder and the effects of repurchases under the NCIB. Although InPlay believes that the expectations and assumptions on which the forward-looking statements are based are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on the forward-looking statements because InPlay can give no assurance that they will prove to be correct. Since forward-looking statements address future events and conditions by their very nature they involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Actual results could defer materially from those currently anticipated due to a number of factors and risks. Certain of these risks are set out in more detail in InPlay’s Annual Information Form which has been filed on SEDAR+ and can be accessed at www.sedarplus.com.

The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are made as of the date hereof and InPlay undertakes no obligation to update publically or revise any forward-looking statements or information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, unless so required by applicable securities laws.

SOURCE InPlay Oil Corp.