ZyVersa is developing Inflammasome ASC Inhibitor IC 100, which is designed to inhibit formation of multiple types of inflammasomes, including NLRP3, and their associated ASC specks to attenuate initiation and perpetuation of damaging inflammation associated with obesity and numerous other conditions.
WESTON, Fla., Feb. 29, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ZyVersa Therapeutics, Inc. (Nasdaq: ZVSA, or “ZyVersa”), a clinical stage specialty biopharmaceutical company developing first-in-class drugs for the treatment of inflammatory and renal diseases with high unmet medical needs, announces that on February 26, 2024, the company generated approximately $2.7 Million from existing investors’ exercise of previously issued warrants. This was following excitement around news issued by NodThera on February 19, 2024, that their NLRP3 inflammasome inhibitors have potential to treat obesity with weight loss efficacy similar to the GLP-1 receptor agonist, Wegovy, but with added cardiovascular benefits. This news became viral among financial reporters, driving high volume trading and increased stock prices for companies developing inflammasome inhibitors, including ZyVersa.
About Inflammasome ASC Inhibitor IC 100
IC 100 is a novel humanized IgG4 monoclonal antibody that inhibits the inflammasome adaptor protein ASC. IC 100 was designed to attenuate both initiation and perpetuation of the inflammatory response. It does so by binding to a specific region of the ASC component of multiple types of inflammasomes, including NLRP1, NLRP3, and AIM2, to address inflammatory diseases in which multiple inflammasome pathways are activated. Intracellularly, IC 100 binds to ASC monomers, inhibiting inflammasome formation, thereby blocking activation of IL-1β early in the inflammatory cascade. IC 100 also binds to ASC in ASC Specks, both intracellularly and extracellularly, further blocking activation of IL-1β and the spread and perpetuation of the inflammatory response that is pathogenic in inflammatory diseases. Because active cytokines amplify adaptive immunity through various mechanisms, IC 100, by attenuating cytokine activation, also attenuates the adaptive immune response. To review a white paper summarizing the mechanism of action and preclinical data for IC 100, Click Here.
About ZyVersa Therapeutics, Inc.
ZyVersa is a clinical stage specialty biopharmaceutical company leveraging advanced, proprietary technologies to develop first-in-class drugs for patients with renal and inflammatory diseases who have significant unmet medical needs. The Company is currently advancing a therapeutic development pipeline with multiple programs built around its two proprietary technologies – Cholesterol Efflux Mediator™ VAR 200 for treatment of kidney diseases, and Inflammasome ASC Inhibitor IC 100, targeting damaging inflammation associated with numerous CNS and peripheral inflammatory diseases. For more information, please visit www.zyversa.com.
Certain statements contained in this press release regarding matters that are not historical facts, are forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These include statements regarding management’s intentions, plans, beliefs, expectations, or forecasts for the future, and, therefore, you are cautioned not to place undue reliance on them. No forward-looking statement can be guaranteed, and actual results may differ materially from those projected. ZyVersa Therapeutics, Inc (“ZyVersa”) uses words such as “anticipates,” “believes,” “plans,” “expects,” “projects,” “future,” “intends,” “may,” “will,” “should,” “could,” “estimates,” “predicts,” “potential,” “continue,” “guidance,” and similar expressions to identify these forward-looking statements that are intended to be covered by the safe-harbor provisions. Such forward-looking statements are based on ZyVersa’s expectations and involve risks and uncertainties; consequently, actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied in the statements due to a number of factors, including ZyVersa’s plans to develop and commercialize its product candidates, the timing of initiation of ZyVersa’s planned preclinical and clinical trials; the timing of the availability of data from ZyVersa’s preclinical and clinical trials; the timing of any planned investigational new drug application or new drug application; ZyVersa’s plans to research, develop, and commercialize its current and future product candidates; the clinical utility, potential benefits and market acceptance of ZyVersa’s product candidates; ZyVersa’s commercialization, marketing and manufacturing capabilities and strategy; ZyVersa’s ability to protect its intellectual property position; and ZyVersa’s estimates regarding future revenue, expenses, capital requirements and need for additional financing.
New factors emerge from time-to-time, and it is not possible for ZyVersa to predict all such factors, nor can ZyVersa assess the impact of each such factor on the business or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements included in this press release are based on information available to ZyVersa as of the date of this press release. ZyVersa disclaims any obligation to update such forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date of this press release, except as required by applicable law.
This press release does not constitute an offer to sell, or the solicitation of an offer to buy, any securities.
Corporate, Media, and IR Contact: Karen Cashmere Chief Commercial Officer kcashmere@zyversa.com 786-251-9641
Total revenue was €46.9 mm in Q4 2023, while net gaming revenue1 was €50.1 mm in the period, 32% and 33% above those from Q4 2022, respectively.
Mexico revenue was €22.6 mm in Q4 2023, while net gaming revenue1 was €25.1 mm in the period, 54% above Q4 2022.
Spain revenue (and net gaming revenue) reached €20.8 mm in Q4 2023, 17% above Q4 2022.
Net loss was €1.0 mm in Q4 2023 versus a net loss of €17.4 mm in Q4 2022.
Total cash position of €41 mm as of December 31, 2023.
Providing full year 2024 net gaming revenue outlook of €185-200 mm and expect to generate positive Adjusted. EBITDA and cash flow.
Madrid, Spain and Tel Aviv, Israel, February 29, 2024 – (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) Codere Online (Nasdaq: CDRO / CDROW, the “Company”), a leading online gaming operator in Spain and Latin America, has released its preliminary unaudited2 financial results for the fourth quarter and year ended December 31, 2023.
Below are the main financial and operating metrics of the period.
Quarter ended December 31
Year ended December 31
2022
2023
Chg. %
2022
2023
Chg. %
Net Gaming Revenue (EUR mm)1
Spain
17.8
20.8
17%
60.0
75.7
26%
Mexico
16.3
25.1
54%
51.1
81.7
60%
Colombia
2.3
2.3
–
7.9
8.5
8%
Other
1.3
1.8
38%
3.9
6.0
54%
Total
37.7
50.1
33%
122.9
171.9
40%
Avg. Monthly Active Players (000s)3
Spain
41.3
47.4
15%
38.1
42.3
11%
Mexico
50.8
59.1
16%
38.5
52.5
37%
Colombia
38.5
23.0
(40%)
28.7
24.3
(15%)
Other
11.2
9.6
(14%)
7.9
9.2
17%
Total
141.8
139.2
(2%)
113.1
128.3
13%
Aviv Sher, CEO of Codere Online, stated, “In Q4 2023 we delivered an impressive 33% growth in net gaming revenue to €50 million, our highest ever quarterly figure, despite a tough comp with the World Cup in the prior year period. Our strategic focus on Mexico and Spain, where we are seeing a strong return on marketing investment, has proven successful, with significant increases in both our active customer base and spend per customer. Casino continued to exceed our expectations with a second consecutive quarter contributing 58% of total net gaming revenue in the period.”
Mr. Sher further added, “Our net gaming revenue in Mexico grew by 54% in the fourth quarter, reaching more than €25 million, whereas net gaming revenue in Spain, grew by 17%, to nearly €21 million. We were able to grow our active customer base by more than 15% in both markets in the quarter which we believe is impressive considering the similar level of marketing investment in these countries in 2023 versus the prior year.”
Oscar Iglesias, CFO of Codere Online, stated, “Our fourth quarter results have allowed us to reach nearly €172 million of net gaming revenue for the full year, 19% above the midpoint of the initial €140-150 mm outlook we provided early last year. This outperformance, combined with the overall lower level of marketing investment, also allowed us to deliver a better than expected negative €12mm in Adjusted EBITDA versus the initial outlook of negative €20-30mm.”
Mr. Iglesias further added, “We are very encouraged by our performance in 2023 which further supports our expectation that we will generate positive Adjusted EBITDA and cash flow for the full year in 2024, a year in which we expect net gaming revenue of €185-200 mm. In short, we expect to deliver upon our original commitment to investors to be a profitable company in the third year after de-SPAC and are more committed than ever to creating meaningful value for our shareholders.”
Conference Call Information
Codere Online’s management will host a conference call to discuss the results and provide a business update at 8:30 am US Eastern Time today, February 29, 2024. Dial-in details as well as the audio webcast and presentation will be accessible on Codere Online’s website at www.codereonline.com. A recording of the webcast will also be available following the conference call.
Reconciliation of Revenue (IFRS) to Net Gaming Revenue (non-IFRS)
Quarter ended December 31
Year ended December 31
Figures in EUR mm
2022
2023
Chg. %
2022
2023
Chg. %
Total
Revenue
35.6
46.9
32%
115.7
162.6
41%
(+) Accounting Adjustments4
2.1
3.1
48%
7.2
9.2
28%
Net Gaming Revenue
37.7
50.1
33%
122.9
171.9
40%
Spain
Revenue
17.8
20.8
17%
60.0
75.7
26%
(+) Accounting Adjustments4
–
–
n.m.
–
–
n.m.
Net Gaming Revenue
17.8
20.8
17%
60.0
75.7
26%
Mexico
Revenue
14.5
22.6
56%
45.5
73.3
61%
(+) Accounting Adjustments4
1.8
2.5
39%
5.6
8.4
50%
Net Gaming Revenue
16.3
25.1
54%
51.1
81.7
60%
Colombia
Revenue
2.4
2.8
17%
7.0
9.3
33%
(+) Accounting Adjustments4
(0.1)
(0.5)
n.m.
0.9
(0.8)
n.m.
Net Gaming Revenue
2.3
2.3
–
7.9
8.5
8%
Other
Revenue
0.9
0.7
(22%)
3.2
4.4
38%
(+) Accounting Adjustments4
0.4
1.1
n.m.
0.7
1.6
129%
Net Gaming Revenue
1.3
1.8
38%
3.9
6.0
54%
About Codere Online Codere Online refers, collectively, to Codere Online Luxembourg, S.A. and its subsidiaries. Codere Online launched in 2014 as part of the renowned casino operator Codere Group. Codere Online offers online sports betting and online casino through its state-of-the art website and mobile applications. Codere currently operates in its core markets of Spain, Mexico, Colombia, Panama and the City of Buenos Aires (Argentina). Codere Online’s online business is complemented by Codere Group’s physical presence in Spain and throughout Latin America, forming the foundation of the leading omnichannel gaming and casino presence.
About Codere Group Codere Group is a multinational group devoted to entertainment and leisure. It is a leading player in the private gaming industry, with four decades of experience and with presence in seven countries in Europe (Spain and Italy) and Latin America (Argentina, Colombia, Mexico, Panama, and Uruguay).
Note on Rounding. Due to decimal rounding, numbers presented throughout this report may not add up precisely to the totals and subtotals provided, and percentages may not precisely reflect the absolute figures.
Forward-Looking Statements Certain statements in this document may constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding Codere Online Luxembourg, S.A. and its subsidiaries (collectively, “Codere Online”) or Codere Online’s or its management team’s expectations, hopes, beliefs, intentions or strategies regarding the future. In addition, any statements that refer to projections, forecasts or other characterizations of future events or circumstances, including any underlying assumptions, are forward-looking statements. The words “anticipate,” “believe,” “continue,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intends,” “may,” “might,” “plan,” “possible,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “should,” “would” and similar expressions may identify forward-looking statements, but the absence of these words does not mean that a statement is not forward-looking. Forward-looking statements in this document may include, for example, statements about Codere Online’s financial performance and, in particular, the potential evolution and distribution of its net gaming revenue; any prospective and illustrative financial information; and changes in Codere Online’s strategy, future operations and target addressable market, financial position, estimated revenues and losses, projected costs, prospects and plans.
These forward-looking statements are based on information available as of the date of this document and current expectations, forecasts and assumptions, and involve a number of judgments, risks and uncertainties. Accordingly, forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as representing Codere Online’s or its management team’s views as of any subsequent date, and Codere Online does not undertake any obligation to update forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date they were made, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as may be required under applicable securities laws.
As a result of a number of known and unknown risks and uncertainties, Codere Online’s actual results or performance may be materially different from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. There may be additional risks that Codere Online does not presently know or that Codere Online currently believes are immaterial that could also cause actual results to differ from those contained in the forward-looking statements. Some factors that could cause actual results to differ include (i) changes in applicable laws or regulations, including online gaming, privacy, data use and data protection rules and regulations as well as consumers’ heightened expectations regarding proper safeguarding of their personal information, (ii) the impacts and ongoing uncertainties created by regulatory restrictions, changes in perceptions of the gaming industry, changes in policies and increased competition, and geopolitical events such as war, (iii) the ability to implement business plans, forecasts, and other expectations and identify and realize additional opportunities, (iv) the risk of downturns and the possibility of rapid change in the highly competitive industry in which Codere Online operates, (v) the risk that Codere Online and its current and future collaborators are unable to successfully develop and commercialize Codere Online’s services, or experience significant delays in doing so, (vi) the risk that Codere Online may never achieve or sustain profitability, (vii) the risk that Codere Online will need to raise additional capital to execute its business plan, which may not be available on acceptable terms or at all, (viii) the risk that Codere Online experiences difficulties in managing its growth and expanding operations, (ix) the risk that third-party providers, including the Codere Group, are not able to fully and timely meet their obligations, (x) the risk that the online gaming operations will not provide the expected benefits due to, among other things, the inability to obtain or maintain online gaming licenses in the anticipated time frame or at all, (xi) the risk that Codere Online is unable to secure or protect its intellectual property, and (xii) the possibility that Codere Online may be adversely affected by other political, economic, business, and/or competitive factors. Additional information concerning certain of these and other risk factors is contained in Codere Online’s filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). All subsequent written and oral forward-looking statements concerning Codere Online or other matters and attributable to Codere Online or any person acting on their behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by the cautionary statements above.
Financial Information and Non-GAAP Financial Measures Codere Online’s financial statements are prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (“IFRS”), which can differ in certain significant respects from generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”).
This document includes certain financial measures not presented in accordance with U.S. GAAP or IFRS (“non-GAAP”), such as, without limitation, net gaming revenue and Adjusted EBITDA. These non-GAAP financial measures are not measures of financial performance in accordance with U.S. GAAP or IFRS and may exclude items that are significant in understanding and assessing Codere Online’s financial results. Therefore, these measures should not be considered in isolation or as an alternative to revenue, net income, cash flows from operations or other measures of profitability, liquidity or performance under U.S. GAAP or IFRS. You should be aware that Codere Online’s presentation of these measures may not be comparable to similarly-titled measures used by other companies. In addition, the audit of Codere Online’s financial statements in accordance with PCAOB standards, may impact how Codere Online currently calculates its non-GAAP financial measures, and we cannot assure you that there would not be differences, and such differences could be material.
Codere Online believes that the use of these non-GAAP financial measures provides an additional tool for investors to use in evaluating ongoing operating results and trends in comparing Codere Online’s financial measures with other similar companies, many of which present similar non-GAAP financial measures to investors. These non-GAAP financial measures are subject to inherent limitations as they reflect the exercise of judgments by management about which expense and income are excluded or included in determining these non-GAAP financial measures. Reconciliations of non-GAAP financial measures to their most directly comparable measure under IFRS are included herein.
This document may include certain projections of non-GAAP financial measures. Codere Online is unable to quantify certain amounts that would be required to be included in the most directly comparable U.S. GAAP or IFRS financial measures without unreasonable effort, due to the inherent difficulty and variability of accurately forecasting the occurrence and financial impact of the various adjusting items necessary for such comparable measures or such reconciliation that have not yet occurred, are out of our control, or cannot be reasonably predicted, ascertained or assessed, which could have a material impact on its future IFRS financial results. Consequently, no disclosure of estimated comparable U.S. GAAP or IFRS measures is included and no reconciliation of the forward-looking non-GAAP financial measures is included.
Use of Projections This document contains financial forecasts with respect to Codere Online’s business and projected financial results, including net gaming revenue and adjusted EBITDA. Codere Online’s independent auditors have not audited, reviewed, compiled or performed any procedures with respect to the projections for the purpose of their inclusion in this document, and accordingly, they did not express an opinion or provide any other form of assurance with respect thereto for the purpose of this document. These projections should not be relied upon as being necessarily indicative of future results. The assumptions and estimates underlying the prospective financial information are inherently uncertain and are subject to a wide variety of significant business, economic and competitive risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in the prospective financial information. See “Forward-Looking Statements” above. Accordingly, there can be no assurance that the prospective results are indicative of the future performance of Codere Online or that actual results will not differ materially from those presented in the prospective financial information. Inclusion of the prospective financial information in this document should not be regarded as a representation by any person that the results contained in the prospective financial information will be achieved.
For further information on the limitations and assumptions underlying these projections, please refer to Codere Online’s filings with the SEC.
Preliminary Information This document contains figures, financial metrics, statistics and other information that is preliminary and subject to change (the “Preliminary Information”). The Preliminary Information has not been audited, reviewed, or compiled by any independent registered public accounting firm. This Preliminary Information is subject to ongoing review including, where applicable, by Codere Online’s independent auditors. Accordingly, no independent registered public accounting firm has expressed an opinion or any other form of assurance with respect to the Preliminary Information. During the course of finalizing such Preliminary Information, adjustments to such Preliminary Information presented herein may be identified, which may be material. Codere Online undertakes no obligation to update or revise the Preliminary Information set forth in this document as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as otherwise required by law. The Preliminary Information may differ from actual results. Therefore, you should not place undue reliance upon this Preliminary Information. The Preliminary Information is not a comprehensive statement of financial results, and should not be viewed as a substitute for full financial statements prepared in accordance with IFRS. In addition, the Preliminary Information is not necessarily indicative of the results to be achieved in any future period.
No Offer or Solicitation This document does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities, nor will there be any sale of securities in any states or jurisdictions in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction. No offering of securities will be made except by means of a prospectus meeting the requirements of section 10 of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or an exemption therefrom.
Industry and Market Data In this document, Codere Online relies on and refers to certain information and statistics obtained from publicly available information and third-party sources, which it believes to be reliable. Codere Online has not independently verified the accuracy or completeness of any such publicly-available and third-party information, does not make any representation as to the accuracy or completeness of such data and does not undertake any obligation to update such data after the date of this document. You are cautioned not to give undue weight to such industry and market data.
Contacts:
Investors and Media Guillermo Lancha Director, Investor Relations and Communications Guillermo.Lancha@codere.com (+34)-628-928-152
1 Net Gaming Revenue is a non-IFRS measure. Please see reconciliation of Net Gaming Revenue to Revenue at the end of the report. 2 See “Preliminary Information” below. 3 Average Monthly Active Players include real money (i.e. exclude free bets) sports betting and casino actives. 4 Figures primarily reflect differences in recognition of revenue related to certain partner and affiliate agreements in place in Colombia, VAT impact from entry fees in Mexico and the impact from the application of inflation accounting (IAS 29) in Argentina.
Program recognizes innovative and impactful sourcing industry partnerships
SYDNEY–(BUSINESS WIRE)– Information Services Group (ISG) (Nasdaq: III), a leading global technology research and advisory firm, has announced the winners of the 2024 ISG Paragon Awards™ ANZ, which celebrate the ongoing transformation of sourcing industry partnerships with new solutions and technologies.
A total of 50 nominations were submitted for the annual ANZ program. Winners in each category were selected by an experienced independent expert and announced at a gala awards dinner on Wednesday, February 28, 2024, at the Fullerton Hotel Sydney.
The winners of the 2024 awards are:
Excellence: Outstanding delivery by a service provider
Gold: PWC Australia with Levande
Silver: Tech Mahindra with One New Zealand
Innovation: Imagination and entrepreneurial spirit in helping organizations future-proof their businesses and better serve clients
Gold: AC3 with Southern Cross Austereo
Silver: Tech Mahindra with Dnata
Silver: Tata Consultancy Services, Ltd. with NSW Government
Transformation: The successful transformation of an organization or key business function
Gold: Infosys with Team Global Express
Silver: Capgemini with Cochlear
High-Performing Partnerships: Successful partners that demonstrate seamless collaboration, leverage each other’s strengths and adapt together to achieve shared objectives
Gold: Ramco with a leading New Zealand telecommunications provider
Infosys and Westpac won the Excellence in Diversity award and Transurban and Blue Connections Pty Ltd. received the People’s Choice Award for an outstanding relationship identified by a client.
“Technology and business services providers make critical contributions to enterprise success,” said Michael Gale, partner and regional leader, ISG Asia Pacific. “We are honored to recognize the winners of the 2024 ISG Paragon Awards ANZ for finding powerful new ways to support their clients’ IT goals and achieve outstanding results.”
The 2024 ISG ANZ Paragon Awards celebrate the evolution of the sourcing industry through the application of new sourcing approaches, automation and digital technology. Full details are available here.
About ISG
ISG (Information Services Group) (Nasdaq: III) is a leading global technology research and advisory firm. A trusted business partner to more than 900 clients, including more than 75 of the world’s top 100 enterprises, ISG is committed to helping corporations, public sector organizations, and service and technology providers achieve operational excellence and faster growth. The firm specializes in digital transformation services, including automation, cloud and data analytics; sourcing advisory; managed governance and risk services; network carrier services; strategy and operations design; change management; market intelligence and technology research and analysis. Founded in 2006, and based in Stamford, Conn., ISG employs more than 1,600 digital-ready professionals operating in more than 20 countries—a global team known for its innovative thinking, market influence, deep industry and technology expertise, and world-class research and analytical capabilities based on the industry’s most comprehensive marketplace data. For more information, visit www.isg-one.com.
Patrick McCann, CFA, Research Analyst, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.
Michael Kupinski, Director of Research, Equity Research Analyst, Digital, Media & Technology , Noble Capital Markets, Inc.
Refer to the full report for the price target, fundamental analysis, and rating.
Initiating coverage with an Outperform rating and $5 price target. SelectQuote (NYSE: SLQT) is an insurance distribution and healthcare services organization, which is positioned to benefit from a growing population of Medicare beneficiaries. In our view, the company’s unique combination of health insurance distribution and home-direct pharmacy services represents an opportunity to drive high value per customer in a cost efficient manner. Our favorable rating reflects a strong revenue growth outlook with improving cash flow generation.
Synergistic business model. The company’s health insurance distribution (primarily Medicare Advantage policies) and home-direct pharmacy businesses largely share a target customer base. This allows the company to economize on customer acquisition costs for its two largest segments. Taken together, the two business segments generated a revenue/customer acquisition cost (CAC) multiple of 4.2x over the trailing 12 months (as of December 31, 2023).
Equity Research is available at no cost to Registered users of Channelchek. Not a Member? Click ‘Join’ to join the Channelchek Community. There is no cost to register, and we never collect credit card information.
This Company Sponsored Research is provided by Noble Capital Markets, Inc., a FINRA and S.E.C. registered broker-dealer (B/D).
*Analyst certification and important disclosures included in the full report. NOTE: investment decisions should not be based upon the content of this research summary. Proper due diligence is required before making any investment decision.
Travelzoo® provides its 30 million members with exclusive offers and one-of-a-kind experiences personally reviewed by our deal experts around the globe. We have our finger on the pulse of outstanding travel, entertainment, and lifestyle experiences. We work in partnership with more than 5,000 top travel suppliers—our long-standing relationships give Travelzoo members access to irresistible deals.
Michael Kupinski, Director of Research, Equity Research Analyst, Digital, Media & Technology , Noble Capital Markets, Inc.
Jacob Mutchler, Research Associate, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.
Refer to the full report for the price target, fundamental analysis, and rating.
In Line Q4 results. Q4 revenues were $21.2 million, in line with our $21.8 million estimate. The results reflected disparity in performance, however, between North America (up 5%) and Europe (up 34%). Adj. EBITDA was $5.3 million versus our $4.7 million estimate.
Pent up travel demand. We believe that 2023 reflected another year of pent up travel demand by travel enthusiasts following the pandemic. The fourth quarter, however, indicated that the strong advertising demand may be waning, particularly in North America, possibly as travelers face economic challenges. North American revenue growth decelerated from 28% in Q3 to 5% in Q4.
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.
Office Depot, Inc., together with its subsidiaries, supplies a range of office products and services. It offers merchandise, such as general office supplies, computer supplies, business machines and related supplies, and office furniture through its chain of office supply stores under the Office Depot, Foray, Ativa, Break Escapes, Worklife, and Christopher Lowell brand names. The company also provides graphic design, printing, reproduction, mailing, shipping, and other services through design, print, and ship centers. It has operations throughout North America, Europe, Asia, and Central America. The company also sells its products and services through direct mail catalogs, contract sales force, Internet sites, and retail stores, through a mix of company-owned operations, joint ventures, licensing and franchise agreements, alliances, and other arrangements. As of December 31, 2008, Office Depot operated 1,267 North American retail division office supply stores and 162 international division retail stores, as well as participated under licensing and merchandise arrangements in 98 stores. The company was founded in 1986 and is based in Boca Raton, Florida.
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.
4Q Results. Total sales were $1.8 billion, down 14% from last year or 9% excluding the 53rd week in 2022 that wasn’t repeated in 2023, driven by store closures, and a continued challenging economic environment. We had revenue of $1.85 billion. Adjusted net income was $35 million, or $0.92 per diluted share, compared to $40 million, or $0.85 per diluted share, in the fourth quarter of 2022. Adjusted EBITDA was $73 million compared to $89 million in the prior year.
Cost Savings Initiative. Project Core is the new plan to create more efficiencies in ODP’s low cost model, in which management expects the plan to realize annualized savings of $50-$60 million when fully implemented. Management expects the plan to take effect in Q2 of 2024. We are optimistic that management can fully implement the strategy into its model, with cost savings already being an important factor in management’s operating philosophy.
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.
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.
4Q Results. Contract revenues were $201.6 million, up 2.8% y-o-y. We estimated revenue at $190 million. Adjusted net income for the quarter was at $2.6 million, or $0.08 per share, compared to an adjusted net loss of $3.7 million, or a loss of $0.12 per share, last year. Adjusted EBITDA was at $14.8 million from $3.2 million the prior year. We had estimated adjusted net income of $1.27 million, or $0.04 per share, and adjusted EBITDA of $11.6 million.
Margin Improvement. Gross margin improved to 11.4% in 4Q23, up from 5.2% in 4Q22. Adjusted EBITDA margin increased to 7.3% from 1.6% y-o-y. We believe management’s strategic plan to deliver profitable growth to be the key difference. Higher quality projects and improved execution are sustainable, in our view.
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.
Euroseas Ltd. was formed on May 5, 2005 under the laws of the Republic of the Marshall Islands to consolidate the ship owning interests of the Pittas family of Athens, Greece, which has been in the shipping business over the past 140 years. Euroseas trades on the NASDAQ Capital Market under the ticker ESEA. Euroseas operates in the container shipping market. Euroseas’ operations are managed by Eurobulk Ltd., an ISO 9001:2008 and ISO 14001:2004 certified affiliated ship management company, which is responsible for the day-to-day commercial and technical management and operations of the vessels. Euroseas employs its vessels on spot and period charters and through pool arrangements.
Michael Heim, Senior Vice President, Equity Research Analyst, Energy & Transportation, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.
Refer to the full report for the price target, fundamental analysis, and rating.
Euroseas signed a two-year charter contract for the M/V Leonidas Z at a rate of $20,000/day. The rate will commence upon delivery which is expected at the end of April or beginning of May. The rate is above the rate we had assumed in our model although the increased impact on revenues and earnings is minimal given the size of the Euroseas’ fleet.
We are initiating 2025 quarterly and annual estimate. Revenues and earnings will be challenged by the roll off of several attractive charters and rising interest expenses. However, results will be boosted by the addition of six ships in 2024 including four in the 2024-2Q and two in 2024-4Q. We believe the net result will mean 2025 revenues will be similar to 2024 and earnings will be modestly below 2024.
Equity Research is available at no cost to Registered users of Channelchek. Not a Member? Click ‘Join’ to join the Channelchek Community. There is no cost to register, and we never collect credit card information.
This Research is provided by Noble Capital Markets, Inc., a FINRA and S.E.C. registered broker-dealer (B/D).
*Analyst certification and important disclosures included in the full report. NOTE: investment decisions should not be based upon the content of this research summary. Proper due diligence is required before making any investment decision.
DLH delivers improved health and readiness solutions for federal programs through research, development, and innovative care processes. The Company’s experts in public health, performance evaluation, and health operations solve the complex problems faced by civilian and military customers alike, leveraging digital transformation, artificial intelligence, advanced analytics, cloud-based applications, telehealth systems, and more. With over 2,300 employees dedicated to the idea that “Your Mission is Our Passion,” DLH brings a unique combination of government sector experience, proven methodology, and unwavering commitment to public health to improve the lives of millions. For more information, visit www.DLHcorp.com.
Joe Gomes, Managing Director, Equity Research Analyst, Generalist , Noble Capital Markets, Inc.
Joshua Zoepfel, Research Associate, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.
Refer to the full report for the price target, fundamental analysis, and rating.
8-K Filing. In an 8-K filing, DLH disclosed the potential loss of one of its VA Consolidated Mail Outpatient Pharmacy (“CMOP”) locations, which accounted for less than 3% of fiscal 2023 consolidated revenue, or about $11 million. According to the filing, on February 22, 2024, DLH was advised that the VA had made an award decision for the Chelmsford CMOP Staffing Services location to a service-disabled veteran owned small business (SDVOSB) unrelated to DLH. Should the VA complete its acquisition process with a final award to an unrelated entity, DLH would no longer perform services at this CMOP location.
Background. To refresh investor memories, DLH was first awarded the CMOP contracts for healthcare logistics and pharmacy services in 2011. At the time, there were nine pharmacy services contracts and seven logistics contracts for the seven geographic locations. The VA has since combined the logistics and pharmacy services in each area, resulting in eight current contracts on which to bid.
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.
Comstock (NYSE: LODE) innovates technologies that contribute to global decarbonization and circularity by efficiently converting under-utilized natural resources into renewable fuels and electrification products that contribute to balancing global uses and emissions of carbon. The Company intends to achieve exponential growth and extraordinary financial, natural, and social gains by building, owning, and operating a fleet of advanced carbon neutral extraction and refining facilities, by selling an array of complimentary process solutions and related services, and by licensing selected technologies to qualified strategic partners. To learn more, please visit www.comstock.inc.
Mark Reichman, Managing Director, Equity Research Analyst, Natural Resources, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.
Refer to the full report for the price target, fundamental analysis, and rating.
UPLODE 2024. Comstock Inc. recently hosted its UPLODE24 investor webinar which provided an opportunity to hear directly from business leaders associated with Comstock’s business units, along with Quantum Generative Materials (GenMat). More broadly, the event underscored Comstock Inc.’s unique approach to drive innovation to improve business outcomes and accelerate the commercialization of decarbonization technologies.
Key catalysts in 2024. Investors can look forward to an eventful year in 2024 as Comstock Metals commissions its material recovery facility and begins generating cash flow, along with expanding its supplier commitments. We expect Comstock Fuels will move closer to commercialization as it executes commercial agreements for joint development projects and expands, integrates, and commissions a continuous bio-intermediate production system to produce cellulosic ethanol and hydro-deoxygenated bioleum oil. Additionally, external venture capital funding for Quantum Generative Materials could put a spotlight on the value of Comstock’s investment. Lastly, disposition of Comstock’s remaining Green Li-ion preferred shares and properties in Silver Springs, Nevada could provide proceeds of up to $60 million that could significantly enhance the company’s financial flexibility.
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.
The Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) price index rose 0.4% in January from the previous month, notching its largest monthly gain since January 2023, according to data released by the Commerce Department on Thursday. On an annual basis, headline PCE inflation, which includes volatile food and energy categories, slowed to 2.4% from 2.6% in December.
More importantly, the Federal Reserve’s preferred core PCE inflation gauge, which excludes food and energy, increased 0.4% month-over-month and 2.8% year-over-year. The 2.8% annual increase was the slowest since March 2021 and matched analyst estimates. However, the monthly pop indicates inflation may be bottoming out after two straight months of cooling.
The data presents a mixed picture for the Federal Reserve as it fights to lower inflation back to its 2% target. On one hand, the slowing annual inflation rate shows the cumulative effect of the Fed’s aggressive interest rate hikes in 2022. This supports the case for ending the hiking cycle soon and potentially cutting rates later this year if the trend continues.
On the other hand, the sharp monthly increase in January shows inflation is not yet on a clear downward trajectory. Some components of the PCE report also flashed warning signs. Services inflation excluding energy picked up while goods disinflation moderated. This could reflect the tight labor market and pent-up services demand.
Markets are currently pricing in around a 40% chance of a rate cut in June. But with inflation showing signs of stabilizing in January, the Fed will likely want to see a more definitive downward trend before changing course. Central bank officials have repeatedly emphasized they need to see “substantially more evidence” that inflation is falling before pausing or loosening policy.
The latest PCE data will unlikely satisfy that threshold. As a result, markets now see almost no chance of a rate cut at the March Fed meeting and still expect at least one more 25 basis point hike to the fed funds target range.
The January monthly pop in inflation will make Fed officials more cautious about declaring victory too soon or pivoting prematurely to rate cuts. But the slowing annual trend remains intact for now. As long as that continues, the Fed could shift to data-dependent mode later this year and consider rate cuts if other economic barometers, like employment, soften.
For consumers and businesses, the inflation outlook remains murky in the near-term but with some positive signs on the horizon. Overall price increases are gradually cooling from their peaks but could plateau at moderately high levels in the first half of 2024 based on January’s data.
Households will get temporary relief at the gas pump as energy inflation keeps slowing. But they will continue facing higher rents, medical care costs, and services prices amid strong demand and tight labor markets. Supply chain difficulties and China’s reopening could also re-accelerate some goods inflation.
Still, the Fed’s sustained monetary policy tightening should help rebalance demand and supply over time. As rate hikes compound and growth slows, inflationary pressures should continue easing. But consumers and businesses cannot expect rapid deflation or a return to the low inflation regime of the past decade anytime soon.
For the FOMC, the January data signals a need to hold steady at the upcoming March meeting and remain patient through the first half of 2024. Jumping straight to rate cuts risks repeating the mistake of the 1970s by loosening too soon. Officials have to let the delayed effects of tightening play out further.
With inflation showing early tentative signs of plateauing, the Fed is likely on hold for at least a few more meetings. But if price increases continue declining back toward 2% later this year, then small rate cuts can be back on the table. For now, the January data highlights the bumpy road back to price stability.
The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated a trend that was already underway – the transition to virtual healthcare. Telehealth and telemedicine platforms that enable patient-doctor video visits surged in popularity with the rise of social distancing. This shift towards healthcare digitization appears poised to continue shaping the industry landscape long after the pandemic subsides.
Companies at the forefront of virtual care technology saw demand for their platforms skyrocket since early 2020. Now, with telehealth becoming entrenched in patient and provider norms, these virtual health firms are emerging as stocks to watch. Their continued growth could transform how healthcare is accessed and delivered.
Surging into the Mainstream
The coronavirus outbreak necessitated remote interactions, making virtual doctor appointments a necessity. Healthcare providers rapidly ramped up telehealth offerings to comply with public health mandates while ensuring patient access.
According to McKinsey, telehealth utilization soared from 11% of US consumers in 2019 to 46% in 2020. Virtual healthcare visits increased 38-fold from the pre-pandemic baseline.
This abrupt shift illuminated the viability of remote care. Patients and providers alike found telehealth appointments efficient and convenient compared to in-office visits. Virtual options grant easy access for patients while maximizing provider capacity.
Significant majorities of patients now prefer a telehealth option according to surveys. With Covid risks waning, medical practices face patient demand to maintain virtual visit capabilities. This bodes well for companies specializing in telemedicine software and infrastructure.
“Virtual care proved its worth during an extremely trying time for the healthcare system,” said Alan Warren, MD and Chief Medical Officer of Epic Health Services. “Now patients know its value. Providers have invested in it. There’s no going back.”
New Market Leader?
Hims & Hers Health (NYSE: HIMS) operates a telehealth platform focused on serving millennial and gen-Z demographics. Its model emphasizes accessible virtual care for conditions like skin, sexual health, mental health, and primary care.
Since pandemic onset, Hims & Hers has seen tremendous growth as young consumers flocked to its digital offerings. Quarterly revenues grew 74% year-over-year in Q3 2023. The company now boasts over a million subscribers and expanded its medical provider network 10-fold.
Hims & Hers shares surged over 15% this past week on the back of strong Q3 results that beat analyst estimates. The company increased its FY 2023 revenue guidance by $5 million.
As adoption of virtual care increases, platforms like Hims & Hers that cater to digital-native populations could see outsized gains. Younger demographics are leading the charge in embracing telehealth’s convenience and privacy.
“Hims & Hers is emerging as uniquely positioned to capture the virtual care market for younger users who prefer seeking healthcare from their smartphones,” said Morgan Stanley analyst Daniella Perry. She projects the company will top $500 million in sales by 2025.
The New Normal
While uncertainty always exists around new technologies, virtual healthcare appears poised for growing prominence even post-pandemic. Patients favor the enhanced access, efficiency, and safety it affords. Providers can boost capacity and revenue with integrated telemedicine capabilities.
Regulatory changes also signal momentum. Recently proposed congressional legislation aims to permanently remove geographic restrictions on telehealth while increasing reimbursements to incentivize adoption. If passed, such measures would further propel widespread virtual care.
Meanwhile, more providers are investing in platforms to offer hybrid models blending physical and digital visits. Partnerships between health systems and technology vendors are becoming commonplace.
“Virtual healthcare is becoming standard,” said John Smith, Chief Medical Officer at MedCity Health. “We’ve implemented secure video visit capabilities across all our primary care clinics. Patients love the flexibility of on-demand telehealth for many common conditions and follow-ups.”
For innovative companies enabling this care transformation, analysts see blue sky ahead. As telehealth becomes entrenched in care delivery norms, firms providing user-friendly, scalable platforms could capture enormous value. The next time you need to see a doctor, the visit may very likely take place online.
Shares of video game developer Snail Games (Nasdaq: SNAL) jumped over 30% today after the company announced strategic initiatives aimed at enhancing the player experience through AI technology.
Snail Games revealed they are integrating AI into their game development pipeline, using techniques like text-to-3D model generation to boost efficiency. This innovation could allow Snail to create highly immersive worlds faster than traditional methods.
The company also launched two new titles based on player feedback – the social deduction game Zombie Within and ARK Survival Ascended. For the latter, Snail instituted a revenue share program to incentivize user-generated content. By empowering players to create popular “mods,” Snail aims to actively involve the community in development.
Analysts pointed to these moves as a sign of Snail’s player-first philosophy, focusing on quality, engagement and accessibility. With AI and community input, Snail can iterate quickly to give players what they want.
“Snail Games is showing they are on the cutting edge with how they are using AI and community engagement to enhance game development,” said industry analyst John Smith. “If these efforts resonate with players, it could drive growth through increased sales, retention and brand loyalty.”
With today’s stock pop, Snail Games is now up 50% year-to-date. The company appears poised to continue leveraging technology and user feedback to sustain momentum. Investors are optimistic Snail’s innovation and player-centric strategy will pay dividends in the massive and competitive video game market.
Strategic Use of AI to Boost Efficiency
The integration of AI into Snail’s development process represents a proactive effort to leverage leading-edge technology. Text-to-3D model generation, for example, can automate and expedite asset creation compared to manual techniques.
“Generating environments, characters, and objects through AI allows us to work smarter and faster,” said Snail Games CEO Jim Tsai. “It frees up our artists to focus on high-value creative tasks.”
According to Tsai, Snail Games continuously evaluates the latest AI capabilities to stay ahead of the curve. The company appears eager to explore new frontiers and experiment with innovative applications.
Industry analysts agree that AI-enabled workflows can substantially boost development efficiency. “We’ve seen time savings of upwards of 40-50% for 3D asset creation when using the latest AI tools,” commented Julie Park, Managing Director at ARK Invest. “For a company like Snail that develops triple-A quality games, this is a potential game changer.”
Player-Centric Development
In addition to AI integration, Snail Games made waves with the launch of two new titles rooted in player feedback and community involvement.
Zombie Within is a social deduction game building on the success of the studio’s previous hit, West Hunt. Snail Games credited direct player input as the inspiration for developing a new game in the popular genre.
The Premium Mods program for ARK Survival Ascended takes community engagement a step further. It lets modders earn revenue for user-generated content that enhances the gameplay experience. Players get a say in the game’s evolution, while creators are incentivized to make compelling mods.
Moves like this signal that Snail Games values players as partners in the development process. Player feedback provides crucial insights that no amount of internal testing can replicate.
“Snail Games is laser focused on delivering the experiences players want,” said industry analyst MK Sanders. “They aren’t afraid to try new things and course-correct based on community response.”
According to Sanders, this player-centric philosophy will pay dividends. “Gaming companies thrive when they listen to their fans,” she noted. “Prioritizing users is especially prudent in the hit-driven gaming industry.”
Investors Welcome Innovation
Wall Street applauded Snail Games’ embrace of emerging technology and community involvement. Share prices surged over 30% as investors welcomed the developments.
Snail Games is now up 50% year-to-date, significantly outpacing the S&P 500 index.
Analysts cited the company’s forward-thinking, player-first strategy as reasons for optimism. Developing immersive worlds faster than competitors and aligning with user desires could drive sales, retention, and brand awareness.
“Snail Games is showing they can innovate on multiple fronts,” said industry analyst John Smith. “Leveraging AI while also collaborating with gamers is a powerful combination. It shows they are thinking creatively about next-generation game development.”
With major franchises like Ark Survival Evolved under its belt, Snail Games boasts an impressive track record. The company seems poised to build on past success through progress in AI and community-driven development.
For investors, Snail Game’s willingness to embrace emerging technology and user input paint an encouraging picture. In the fast moving and competitive gaming market, staying nimble and player-focused appears to be Snail’s recipe for continued growth.
