May 2024 - Page 9 of 19

Kelly Services (KELYA) – Post Call Commentary and Updated Model

Posted on May 14, 2024May 14, 2024 by cpereira@noblefcm.com

Tuesday, May 14, 2024

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.

Operating Environment. The operating environment remains relatively unchanged in terms of the overall macro environment, the availability of top talent, labor force participation, quit rates, and some other key labor factors. We continue to believe Kelly is well positioned to capitalize on any improvement in the operating environment.

Adjusted EBITDA Margin. The sale of the lower margin European Staffing business combined with management’s focus on cost reduction is showing up in the financial results, with adjusted EBITDA margin up 120bp year-over-year. We expect a similar improvement in 2Q24 and the MRP acquisition likely will drive margins even higher.

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

Cocrystal Pharma (COCP) – 1Q24 Reported With Clinical Data Milestones On Schedule

Posted on May 14, 2024May 14, 2024 by cpereira@noblefcm.com

Tuesday, May 14, 2024

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), hepatitis C viruses and noroviruses. 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.

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

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

Clinical Milestones Are On Schedule. Cocrystal reported 1Q loss of $4.0 million or $(0.39) per share. During the quarter, the company made progress on its clinical trials and reiterated upcoming milestones for its Phase 1 trial testing CDI-988 in norovirus and COVID-19 and its Phase 2a trial testing CC-42344 in influenza. Cash on March 31, 2024, was $21.8 million.

Results Expected Shortly From The CC-42344 Influenza Virus Program. CC-42344 is an oral PB2 inhibitor in development against a broad spectrum of pandemic and seasonal influenza stains. Enrollment for the current Phase 2a human-challenge study was completed in May 2024. This trial is being conducted in the UK, with data expected to be reported in 2H24. The company has received FDA guidance on the IND filing requirements for Phase 2b trials. The IND filing is expected in 2H24.

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

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

GameStop Frenzy Erupts as “Roaring Kitty” Resurfaces After 3 Years

Posted on May 13, 2024May 14, 2024 by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

In an explosive return, the man who inspired the historic GameStop “meme stock” mania in 2021 has re-emerged from a three-year hiatus – sending shockwaves through Wall Street once again.

Keith Gill, known online as the legendary “Roaring Kitty” had been silent across social media since rallying an “ape army” of retail traders to bet big against hedge funds that were shorting GameStop stock. That is, until May 13th, 2024, when he ominously posted a simple image of an intensely focused video gamer to his X account.

The GameStop “Roaring Kitty” Rallying Cry Heard Again
It was all the wake-up call the meme stock movement needed. Within hours of Gill’s first post in over 1,000 days, shares of GameStop Corp (GME) were halted for volatility multiple times as they skyrocketed as much as 110%. When the mayhem settled, the video game retailer’s stock closed a staggering 70% higher on the day.

The Roaring Kitty-inspired surge was a flashback to January 2021, when GameStop became the poster child for a new era of disruption on Wall Street. Gill’s passionate YouTube streams advocating for the struggling company had mobilized a horde of online day traders from the Reddit forum r/WallStreetBets.

By piling into GameStop shares and options contracts, these self-dubbed “apes” triggered a cataclysmic short squeeze – forcing institutional investors with massive bearish bets against GME to cover their positions at rapidly escalating prices. Within two weeks, the stock had captured the world’s attention by inexplicably spiking over 2,700% from $17.25 to an intraday peak of $483.

Hedge Fund Decimation and Hollywood Deals
Billion-dollar hedge funds like Melvin Capital were decimated by the GameStop short squeeze, requiring emergency cash injections to stay afloat. The historic market event shined a light on the fragility of Wall Street’s short-selling practices and the power of unified retail investors.

Roaring Kitty himself faced intense scrutiny over his role. Gill testified before Congress about his GameStop windfall and was slapped with a class-action lawsuit alleging he misrepresented his expertise. The saga even inspired the 2023 feature film “Dumb Money,” with actor Paul Dano portraying Gill’s journey to meme stock fame.

Can Lightning Strike Twice for Meme Stocks?
While the hype around GameStop had cooled off in recent years, Roaring Kitty’s comeback appearance instantly rejuvenated the movement he started. But can retail traders engineer another shocking short squeeze against institutional behemoths?

GameStop’s core business remains on shaky ground against digital downloads and e-commerce juggernauts. In its latest earnings report, the company posted lower revenue and cut jobs to reduce costs, showing its stock may still be disconnected from fundamentals.

However, with Roaring Kitty leading the rallying cry once more, the army of “ape” traders is ready to shake up the establishment all over again. And with nearly 25% of GameStop’s shares still sold short, the conditions may be ripe for another seismic confrontation in the meme stock revolution.

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Release – Graham Corporation Announces Filing of Universal Shelf Registration Statement

Posted on May 13, 2024May 13, 2024 by dburczyk@noblecapitalmarkets.com

Research News and Market Data on GHM

BATAVIA, N.Y.–(BUSINESS WIRE)– Graham Corporation (NYSE: GHM) (“GHM” or “the Company”), a global leader in the design and manufacture of mission critical fluid, power, heat transfer and vacuum technologies for the defense, space, energy, and process industries, announced today that it has filed a universal shelf registration statement on Form S-3 with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). If and when the shelf registration is declared effective, it will permit the Company to offer and sell, from time to time in one or more offerings, up to $150 million of common stock, preferred stock, warrants, purchase contracts, units, or any combination of these securities.

Christopher J. Thome, Chief Financial Officer, commented, “We believe a shelf registration is a demonstration of good corporate governance as it provides GHM with enhanced financial flexibility to meet our long-term strategic goals. It enables us to access the capital markets quickly and efficiently, if and when favorable conditions align for the Company and our shareholders.”

Should the Company decide to raise capital in a future offering using the shelf registration statement, GHM will describe the specific details of that future offering in a prospectus supplement that is filed with the SEC.

The registration statement on Form S-3 has been filed with the SEC but is not yet effective. These securities may not be sold nor may offers to buy be accepted under the Form S-3 registration statement prior to the time the Form S-3 registration statement becomes effective. This News release shall not constitute an offer to sell nor the solicitation of an offer to buy the securities that are proposed to be registered on the Form S-3, nor shall there be any sale of such securities in any state in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities law of any such state.

About Graham Corporation

GHM is a global leader in the design and manufacture of mission critical fluid, power, heat transfer and vacuum technologies for the defense, space, energy, and process industries. The Graham Manufacturing and Barber-Nichols’ global brands are built upon world-renowned engineering expertise in vacuum and heat transfer, cryogenic pumps, and turbomachinery technologies, as well as its responsive and flexible service and the unsurpassed quality customers have come to expect from the Company’s products and systems. Graham Corporation routinely posts news and other important information on its website, grahamcorp.com, where additional information on Graham Corporation and its businesses can be found.

Safe Harbor Regarding Forward Looking Statements

This news release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.

Forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions and are identified by words such as “believe,” “if,” “when,” “intended,” “should,” ”may”, “will,” and other similar words and include all statements with respect to the Company’s plans and expectations regarding its registration statement on Form S-3 and any potential future offering or capital raises and the use of proceeds therefrom. Because they are forward-looking, they should be evaluated in light of important risk factors and uncertainties. These risk factors and uncertainties are more fully described in Graham Corporation’s most recent Annual Report filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), included under the heading entitled “Risk Factors”, and in other reports filed with the SEC.

Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize or should any of Graham Corporation’s underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those currently anticipated. In addition, undue reliance should not be placed on Graham Corporation’s forward-looking statements. Except as required by law, Graham Corporation disclaims any obligation to update or publicly announce any revisions to any of the forward-looking statements contained in this news release.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240513870889/en/

For more information, contact:
Christopher J. Thome
Vice President – Finance and CFO
Phone: (585) 343-2216

Deborah K. Pawlowski
Kei Advisors LLC
Phone: (716) 843-3908
dpawlowski@keiadvisors.com

Source: Graham Corporation

Released May 13, 2024

Release – ISG to Publish Report on Finance and Accounting Services

Posted on May 13, 2024May 13, 2024 by dburczyk@noblecapitalmarkets.com

Research News and Market Data on III

Upcoming ISG Provider Lens™ report will evaluate providers offering a range of capabilities to improve the efficiency and agility of customers’ financial processes

STAMFORD, Conn.–(BUSINESS WIRE)– Information Services Group (ISG) (Nasdaq: III), a leading global technology research and advisory firm, has launched a research study examining outsourcing services that help enterprises improve their finance and accounting operations and business decision-making.

The study results will be published in a comprehensive ISG Provider Lens™ report, called Finance and Accounting Outsourcing Services (FAO), scheduled to be released in October. The report will cover the global market for services related to procurement, reporting, budgeting, financial planning and other functions.

Enterprise buyers will be able to use information from the report to evaluate their current vendor relationships, potential new engagements and available offerings, while ISG advisors use the information to recommend providers to the firm’s buy-side clients.

Cost reduction, enhanced speed and higher levels of accuracy continue to be the primary drivers of FAO. But as the sector has matured over the last decade, enterprises are expecting their providers to be more consultative and partner-oriented, while leveraging advanced technologies such as AI, machine learning, automation and, most recently, GenAI to deliver more impactful outcomes. Such technologies streamline processes and enable predictive analysis and sophisticated decision-making capabilities essential for strategic planning and competitive advantage.

“Enterprises are looking for FAO providers that act not just as service executors but as advisors and collaborators able to navigate and leverage the broader ecosystem of partners and industry experts,” said Namratha Dharshan, chief business leader, ISG Research. “Providers are expected to understand and align themselves with their customers’ long-term business objectives.”

ISG has distributed surveys to more than 40 finance and accounting outsourcing providers. Working in collaboration with ISG’s global advisors, the research team will produce four quadrants representing the finance and accounting outsourcing services the typical enterprise is buying, based on ISG’s experience working with its clients. The four quadrants are:

Procure to Pay (P2P), evaluating providers of services across the accounts payable process, including paying suppliers, reconciling accounts, tracking expenses and spending patterns and negotiating contracts. P2P providers use new technologies including AI and machine learning to automate processes and increase efficiency.
Order to Cash (O2C),assessing providers of end-to-end O2C operations, including processing customer orders, ensuring payments are received promptly, managing credit risk and providing customer support. Clients look to these partners to streamline operations, often through automation to reduce manual processes.
Record to Report (R2R), covering providers that manage clients’ financial record-keeping and reporting, including complex processes such as managing the end-of-period close process, preparing financial statements and assessing clients’ internal control systems.
Financial Planning and Analysis (FP&A), evaluating providers of high-end financial functions including budgeting, forecasting, financial planning and M&A. These providers act as partners to clients, delivering comprehensive and meaningful data and insights.

The report resulting from this study will cover the global finance and accounting outsourcing market. ISG analysts Gaurang Pagdi and Sneha Jayanth will serve as authors of the report.

A list of identified providers and vendors and further details on the study are available in this digital brochure. Companies not listed as finance and accounting outsourcing providers can contact ISG and ask to be included in the study.

All 2024 ISG Provider Lens™ evaluations feature expanded customer experience (CX) data that measures actual enterprise experience with specific provider services and solutions, based on ISG’s continuous CX research. Enterprise customers wishing to share their experience about a specific provider or vendor are encouraged to register here to receive a personalized survey URL. Participants will receive a copy of this report in return for their feedback.

About ISG Provider Lens™ Research

The ISG Provider Lens™ Quadrant research series is the only service provider evaluation of its kind to combine empirical, data-driven research and market analysis with the real-world experience and observations of ISG’s global advisory team. Enterprises will find a wealth of detailed data and market analysis to help guide their selection of appropriate sourcing partners, while ISG advisors use the reports to validate their own market knowledge and make recommendations to ISG’s enterprise clients. The research currently covers providers offering their services globally, across Europe, as well as in the U.S., Canada, Brazil, the U.K., France, Benelux, Germany, Switzerland, the Nordics, Australia and Singapore/Malaysia, with additional markets to be added in the future. For more information about ISG Provider Lens research, please visit this webpage.

About ISG

ISG (Information Services Group) (Nasdaq: III) is a leading global technology research and advisory firm. A trusted business partner to more than 800 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 AI and 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 1,300 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.

Release – V2X, Inc. Announces Executive Leadership Transition

Posted on May 13, 2024May 13, 2024 by dburczyk@noblecapitalmarkets.com

Research News and Market Data on VVX

Jeremy Wensinger Appointed President and CEO, Succeeding Chuck Prow

MCLEAN, Va., May 13, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — V2X, Inc. (NYSE: VVX), a leading provider of global mission solutions, announced today that Jeremy Wensinger has been appointed President, Chief Executive Officer and a member of the company’s Board of Directors, succeeding Chuck Prow. This appointment, which is effective as of June 17, 2024, is the result of a thorough Board-led succession planning process designed to ensure a smooth transition and continue V2X’s positive business momentum.

Mr. Wensinger has had a highly distinguished 35-year career as a defense and government services industry executive. He most recently served as Chief Operating Officer of Peraton Inc., a next-generation national security company providing solutions and services primarily to the U.S. government with $7 billion in annual revenue. Mr. Wensinger previously served in various leadership roles at Harris Corporation, Cobham PLC, and PAE Government Services, Inc. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated strong leadership and organizational management in driving organic growth, implementing strong business development processes and differentiated technology strategies, executing business integrations, and leading business improvement initiatives.

“Following a thorough process to identify our next CEO, the Board is confident that Jeremy is a strong, experienced leader for V2X’s next chapter of growth,” said Mary Howell, Chairman of V2X’s Board of Directors. “He has a proven track record of delivering best-in-class financial and operational performance within the broad defense services and aerospace industry, as well as a strategic approach to managing businesses, building strong stakeholder relationships, and creating value.”

Mr. Wensinger said, “I am honored to join the V2X team as CEO. I look forward to building on the considerable growth and operating improvements V2X has made, while taking a fresh look at the areas of the business where we can further capitalize on the full potential of our market opportunity. I am eager to begin working with the Board, leadership, and talented V2X team to execute on our strategic and financial goals and drive shareholder value.”

“As the company nears the two-year anniversary of completing the transformational merger of Vectrus with Vertex to create the V2X platform, we thank Chuck for his dedication and valuable contributions,” Mrs. Howell said. “During his tenure as CEO, the company delivered significant organic growth as well as further diversified its contract and customer base, established entirely new technological and service capabilities, and delivered an enhanced customer and employee experience. We look forward to building upon these successes.”

“I would like to thank V2X’s employees, as well as our clients and industry partners, for their trust and confidence in the journey which is now V2X,” Mr. Prow said. “Leading the talented men and women of V2X, deployed globally in support of some of our nation’s most critical missions, has been an honor and privilege.”

About V2X

V2X builds smart solutions designed to integrate physical and digital infrastructure – by aligning people, actions, and outputs. Formed by the merger of Vectrus and Vertex, we bring a combined 120 years of successful mission support. Our lifecycle solutions improve security, streamline logistics, and enhance readiness. The Company delivers a comprehensive suite of integrated solutions across the operations and logistics, aerospace, training, and technology markets to national security, defense, civilian and international clients. Our global team of approximately 16,000 employees brings innovation to every point in the mission lifecycle, from preparation to operations, to sustainment, as it tackles the most complex challenges with agility, grit, and dedication.

Safe Harbor Statement

Safe Harbor Statement under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 (the “Act”): Certain material presented herein includes forward-looking statements intended to qualify for the safe harbor from liability established by the Act. These forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, all the statements in this release that are not historical, including, without limitation, goals for future performance, results and value, our long-term growth outlook and targets and related assumptions and drivers, as well as the expected execution and effect of our business strategies, expectations regarding management transition plans, and any discussion of future operating or financial performance.

Forward-looking statements generally can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as “may,” “will,” “expect,” “intent,” “estimate,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “could,” “potential,” “continue,” “can,” “goal,” “long-term,” “drive,” “next,” and variations of such words and or similar expressions and terminology. These statements are based on the beliefs and assumptions of the management of the Company based on information currently available to management.

These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, conditions, or results, and involve a number of known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions, and other important factors, many of which are outside our management’s control, which could cause actual results to differ materially from the results discussed in the forward-looking statements. In addition, forward-looking statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from the Company’s historical experience and our present expectations or projections. For a discussion of some of the risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ from such forward-looking statements, see the risks and other factors detailed from time to time in our Annual Report on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, and other filings with the SEC.

We do not undertake, and expressly disclaim, any duty or obligation to update publicly any forward-looking statement after the date of this release, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

Investor Contact
Mike Smith, CFA
Vice President, Treasury, Corporate Development and Investor Relations
IR@goV2X.com
719-637-5773

Media Contact
Angelica Spanos Deoudes
Director, Corporate Communications
Angelica.Deoudes@goV2X.com
571-338-5195

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/v2x-inc-announces-executive-leadership-transition-302143147.html

SOURCE V2X, Inc.

Squarespace Buyout Could Unlock Hidden Potential for Small-Cap Tech Investors

Posted on May 13, 2024May 14, 2024 by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

In a $6.9 billion megadeal that underscores private equity’s rekindled appetite for undervalued tech assets, website builder Squarespace is being taken private by European investment giant Permira. This blockbuster buyout could have major reverberations across the small-cap software landscape as the No-Code movement continues disrupting how businesses establish digital presences.

For small and micro-cap investors attuned to sifting out overlooked gems, the Squarespace acquisition shines a spotlight on a vital but often-neglected corner of the tech universe. Despite its ubiquity in helping small businesses, freelancers, and entrepreneurs create web presences, the versatile platform had seen its public market value plummet from pandemic-era highs over $8 billion to just $2 billion last year.

Permira’s acquisition at a nearly $7 billion valuation represents both validation of Squarespace’s resilient business model and the turnaround potential achievable under private ownership insulated from quarterly earnings pressures. It’s a staggering premium to where shares traded for much of the past 18 months.

At the heart of Squarespace’s appeal is its flagship website builder offering an intuitive, drag-and-drop interface enabling rapid launches of customized online storefronts, portfolios, and digital hubs. This democratization of web development tooling has fueled Squarespace’s growth into a over $1 billion annual revenue business catering to small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

However, Squarespace is far more than just websites. It encompasses a full ecosystem powering e-commerce transactions, online marketing campaigns, appointment booking, analytics and other capabilities critical for SMEs to effectively run digital operations. Its recent exploration of generative AI to automate content creation and email campaigns makes Squarespace a prime platform for capitalizing on the latest tech disruptors reshaping modern business workflows.

This is the type of robust, diversified product suite often valued at premium multiples in large-cap counterparts. Yet Squarespace languished in public market purgatory as Wall Street consistently underappreciated the depth of its platform and upside potential to cross-sell new offerings across its vast installed SME customer base.

For Permira, taking the company private removes constraints imposed by quarterly earnings whiplash and nearsighted market mentalities. It gives Squarespace’s visionary founder and CEO Anthony Casalena — who is staying aboard — considerable flexibility to focus resources on longer-term initiatives like AI, fin-tech, and verticalized solutions to create more enduring competitive advantages.

From the acquirer’s standpoint, Squarespace represents a savvy, well-timed bet on secularly ingrained tech trends expected to drive durable growth for years to come. The democratization of business tools for an entire generation of entrepreneurs and small enterprises is underpinned by rising self-employment, gig-economy dynamics, and startup formation catalyzing demand for easy, affordable website builders and marketing automations.

It’s little surprise Permira sees the opportunity to build a true industry juggernaut by capitalizing on Squarespace’s headstart in capturing this coveted market as digital transformation initiatives proliferate. The PE firm has a proven playbook for propelling verticalized software champions forward through its investments across sectors like cybersecurity, fintech, and manufacturing.

For smaller investors able to scour opportunities more nimbly than institutional counterparts, the Squarespace deal highlights several key themes to monitor going forward:

First, differentiated innovators commercializing technologies that flatten the digital playing field consistently fetch premium valuations, even amidst broader tech routs. As entrepreneurship and SME formation remain robust, enablers of this ecosystem will stay in hot demand.

Secondly, the abundance of depressed small-cap software valuations creates fertile ground for well-capitalized consolidators to pounce. Many unloved public companies commanding strong niches and cash flows could become prime targets for buyouts aiming to revitalize growth trajectories away from quarterly investor scrutiny.

Finally, generational tech disruptors like no-code platforms, AI, fin-tech and vertical SaaS models are seen as highly strategic assets warranting aggressive investments from value-conscious buyers. As industry convergence intensifies, small-caps effectively straddling multiple megatrends could emerge as diamonds in the rough.

The Squarespace saga underscores why diligent small-cap investors must maintain a watchful eye for overlooked assets with compelling runway stories. In today’s environment of dizzying tech change and plentiful private capital awaiting deployment, the most unassuming names may harbor some of the market’s most extraordinary upside opportunities.

Information Services Group (III) – Slower Decisions Mean Slower Revenue

Posted on May 13, 2024May 13, 2024 by cpereira@noblefcm.com

Monday, May 13, 2024

ISG (Information Services Group) (Nasdaq: III) is a leading global technology research and advisory firm. A trusted business partner to more than 700 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 1,300 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 additional information, visit www.ISG-One.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.

Continued Slow Environment. ISG’s performance continued to be impacted by slower client decision making. Clients are taking longer to commit to new investments and are developing their AI strategy. We believe that the decision making will continue to affect the Company over the fiscal year, however, the impact will lessen over the quarters as clients start to spend more.

Recurring Revenue. Management’s focus on increasing its recurring revenue continues to be showcased, as half the revenue during the quarter was recurring. The Company’s services on platforms such as GovernX and ProBenchmark continue to experience increased demand and the addition of Ventana Research is providing new relationships, potentially increasing opportunities for cross-selling, in our view. With AI looming, ISG is poised to strike with its AI services when businesses start to invest more in the technology.

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

FAT Brands (FAT) – Facing Civil and Criminal Charges

Posted on May 13, 2024May 13, 2024 by cpereira@noblefcm.com

Monday, May 13, 2024

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

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.

Criminal Charges. On Friday, it was announced the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Central District of California indicted former CEO Andrew Wiederhorn, former CFO Rebecca Hershinger, and the Company’s former accountant. The indictment is for the scheme to conceal $47 million in distributions Mr. Wiederhorn received in the form of shareholder loans from the IRS, FAT’s minority shareholders, and the broader investing public.

Civil Charges. Simultaneously, the SEC filed a civil complaint accusing Mr. Wiederhorn of using FAT cash to fund his lifestyle, while falsely telling the Company’s auditors, Board of Directors, and investors that neither he nor his family members had any direct or indirect material interest in the FAT cash used by Mr. Wiederhorn for personal expenditures.

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

CoreCivic, Inc. (CXW) – Best Revenue in 18 Quarters

Posted on May 13, 2024May 13, 2024 by cpereira@noblefcm.com

Monday, May 13, 2024

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

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.

ICE Pops. After topping out at over 39,000 in late February, ICE detainee population fell to about 36,900 by quarter’s end, finally bottoming out in late April in the low 34,000 level before rising once again over the past few weeks. CoreCivic ICE pops followed a similar pattern ending last week at 10,310.

Margins. With higher populations across federal, state, and local partners, higher occupancy rates, normalizing staffing cost and inflation, and per diem increases, operating margin improved once again in 1Q24. We anticipate additional improvement in 2024. Safety segment operating margin rose 210bp to 23.5%, while Community segment operating margin rose 1,120bp to 27.7%.

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

InPlay Oil (IPOOF) – Result hurt by production declines and low pricing but help may be coming

Posted on May 13, 2024May 13, 2024 by cpereira@noblefcm.com

Monday, May 13, 2024

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 of InPlay trade on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol IPO and the OTCQX Exchange under the symbol IPOOF.

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

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Production results were below expectations as extremely cold weather affected wells. InPlay was actively drilling in the first quarter. Several wells were completed at the end of the quarter and should help out next quarter’s production. The resumption of drilling in a prolific region this fall should lead to higher production in 2025.

Pricing remains an issue as the discount to WTI oil prices remains large, but the discount shows signs of improving. The discount between realized prices and WTI oil prices (as expressed in Canadian dollars) remains wide. New oil and gas pipelines in western Canada should lower the discount. Oil and gas futures already indicate as much.

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

E.W. Scripps (SSP) – Looking For A Strong Finish To The Year

Posted on May 13, 2024May 13, 2024 by cpereira@noblefcm.com

Monday, May 13, 2024

The E.W. Scripps Company (NASDAQ: SSP) is a diversified media company focused on creating a better-informed world. As one of the nation’s largest local TV broadcasters, Scripps serves communities with quality, objective local journalism and operates a portfolio of 61 stations in 41 markets. The Scripps Networks reach nearly every American through the national news outlets Court TV and Newsy and popular entertainment brands ION, Bounce, Defy TV, Grit, ION Mystery, Laff and TrueReal. Scripps is the nation’s largest holder of broadcast spectrum. Scripps runs an award-winning investigative reporting newsroom in Washington, D.C., and is the longtime steward of the Scripps National Spelling Bee. Founded in 1878, Scripps has held for decades to the motto, “Give light and the people will find their own way.”

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

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

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Solid Q1 results. Q1 Revenue of $561.5 million was modestly below our estimate of $571.0 million by 1.7%. Adj. EBITDA in the quarter of $91.8 million beat our estimate of $82.9 million by 10.7% . Notably, Q1 adj. EBITDA benefited from $15.2 million in high margin Political advertising, which was substantially higher than our estimate of $6.5 million, and from earlier cost reductions.

Raising political guide. Given the strong political advertising in Q1, management increased full year 2024 political advertising revenue guide from a range of $210 million to $250 million to a range of $240 million to $270 million. The very high margin (85% to 90%) Political advertising will allow the company to pare down debt.

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

Harte Hanks (HHS) – Revising Estimates Upward; Price Target Raised

Posted on May 13, 2024May 13, 2024 by cpereira@noblefcm.com

Monday, May 13, 2024

Harte Hanks (NASDAQ: HHS) is a leading global customer experience company whose mission is to partner with clients to provide them with CX strategy, data-driven analytics and actionable insights combined with seamless program execution to better understand, attract, and engage their customers. Using its unparalleled resources and award-winning talent in the areas of Customer Care, Fulfillment and Logistics, and Marketing Services, Harte Hanks has a proven track record of driving results for some of the world’s premier brands including Bank of America, GlaxoSmithKline, Unilever, Pfizer, HBOMax, Volvo, Ford, FedEx, Midea, Sony, and IBM among others. Headquartered in Chelmsford, Massachusetts , Harte Hanks has over 2,500 employees in offices across the Americas, Europe and Asia Pacific .

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.

Revenues trending better than expected. The first quarter revenue “beat” indicates favorable revenue trends at the company, which appears likely to swing toward positive revenue growth in the next few quarters. Revenues are moderating at a fast clip, from down 12.6% in Q3 2023, to down 9.6% in Q4 2023 to down a modest 3.5% in Q1 (which beat our down 4.5% estimate). Q2 revenues are expected to decline a modest 0.5%.

Margins expected to improve. As the company reimagines its business, we expect that cost cutting actions should substantially improve margins in coming quarters. We expect adj. EBITDA margins to increase to the low double digits. As such, we are raising our Q3 and Q4 adj. EBITDA estimates by 32% and 26%, respectively.

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