Month: December 2024

Lucky Strike Entertainment (LUCK) – A New Chapter as Lucky Strike

Posted on by cpereira@noblefcm.com


Tuesday, December 17, 2024

Lucky Strike Entertainment is one of the world’s premier location-based entertainment platforms. With over 360 locations across North America, Lucky Strike Entertainment provides experiential offerings in bowling, amusements, water parks, and family entertainment centers. The company also owns the Professional Bowlers Association, the major league of bowling and a growing media property that boasts millions of fans around the globe. For more information on Lucky Strike Entertainment, please visit ir.luckystrikeent.com.

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

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

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

Complete rebrand to Lucky Strike. On December 12, the company announced that it had completed its recently announced rebranding to Lucky Strike Entertainment, which was effective on December 16th. The newly branded company will trade on the NYSE under the symbol “LUCK” as of today.

An acquired brand. The company acquired Lucky Strike Entertainment in September of last year. At that time, management noted that the company would test the brand strength of Lucky Strike in comparison with the Bowlero brand. We believe that Lucky Strike has a strong brand presence and is a compelling change for the company. 


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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).

Comtech Telecommunications (CMTL) – Late 1Q25 Financials

Posted on by cpereira@noblefcm.com


Tuesday, December 17, 2024

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

Joe Gomes, CFA, 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.

A NT10-Q. Comtech missed the deadline for filing its 10-Q for the period ended October 31, 2024, the first quarter of the Company’s fiscal 2025. Unfortunately, this is another late filing, following an NT10-K for the 2024 fiscal year and an NT10-Q for the fiscal third quarter of 2024. We are hopeful the Company will be able to file the required documents shortly.

Reasons. According to the 12b-25 filing, Comtech is unable to file on a timely basis due to “the Company’s ongoing efforts to finalize its condensed consolidated financial statements, which include: (i) its recoverability assessments of (x) receivables and contract assets related to a certain international reseller of our troposcatter technologies, and (y) goodwill and certain long-lived assets due to the Company’s ongoing evaluation of its strategic transformation plans; and (ii) the accounting for and presentation of certain debt instruments and exchanges of convertible preferred shares.”


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Equity Research is available at no cost to Registered users of Channelchek. Not a Member? Click ‘Join’ to join the Channelchek Community. There is no cost to register, and we never collect credit card information.

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

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

Release -MAIA Biotechnology Granted FDA Rare Pediatric Disease Designation for THIO as a Treatment for Pediatric High-Grade Gliomas

Posted on by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

Research News and Market Data on MAIA

December 16, 2024 8:37am EST Download as PDF

CHICAGO–(BUSINESS WIRE)– MAIA Biotechnology, Inc., (NYSE American: MAIA) (“MAIA”, the “Company”), a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company developing targeted immunotherapies for cancer, today announced that the FDA has designated THIO for the treatment of pediatric-type diffuse high-grade gliomas (PDHGG) as a drug for a “rare pediatric disease.”

“THIO is a versatile anti-cancer agent that has demonstrated positive results in multiple difficult to treat cancer types, including pediatric high-grade glioma, which is among the most treatment-resistant cancers in children. THIO is shown to activate the immune system while evading tumor immunosuppression, a novel therapeutic approach for this devastating childhood disease,” said MAIA Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Vlad Vitoc, M.D. “We are proud to receive the FDA’s Rare Pediatric Disease designation for THIO, which significantly bolsters our plans for continuing research in the PDHGG indication.”

MAIA’s Vice President and Head of Regulatory and Quality K. Robinson Lewis added, “Rare pediatric disease designation also offers a highly valuable incentive for MAIA. Upon FDA approval of a future new drug application in PDHGG, MAIA would be eligible to receive a priority review voucher that can be redeemed or sold as an asset at a very high valuation.”

Rare pediatric disease priority review vouchers (PRVs) can be redeemed by drug developers for FDA priority review of a different product or transferred or sold to another sponsor. Since 2015, FDA priority review vouchers have sold as assets at an average amount of $100 million.1

Previous research showcased THIO’s potency as a treatment for a PDHGG subtype known as diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG). A research collaboration between MAIA and Nationwide Children’s Hospital found that THIO combined with ionizing radiation (IR) resulted in significantly decreased cell proliferation and produced potent anticancer effects in highly aggressive DIPG. The data was presented in April 2024 at the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) Annual Meeting.

MAIA collaborated with Only Orphans Cote for THIO’s designation request. Only Orphans Cote is a foremost provider of regulatory services and strategies for FDA orphan drug designations and marketing authorization.

In addition to its rare pediatric disease designation in PDHGG, THIO holds orphan drug designations (ODD) in three cancer types: hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), small cell lung cancer (SCLC) and glioblastoma. MAIA believes that THIO is the only direct telomere-targeting agent currently in clinical development.

About THIO

THIO (6-thio-dG or 6-thio-2’-deoxyguanosine) is a first-in-class investigational telomere-targeting agent currently in clinical development to evaluate its activity in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC). Telomeres, along with the enzyme telomerase, play a fundamental role in the survival of cancer cells and their resistance to current therapies. The modified nucleotide 6-thio-2’-deoxyguanosine (THIO) induces telomerase-dependent telomeric DNA modification, DNA damage responses, and selective cancer cell death. THIO-damaged telomeric fragments accumulate in cytosolic micronuclei and activates both innate (cGAS/STING) and adaptive (T-cell) immune responses. The sequential treatment with THIO followed by PD-(L)1 inhibitors resulted in profound and persistent tumor regression in advanced, in vivo cancer models by induction of cancer type–specific immune memory. THIO is presently developed as a second or later line of treatment for NSCLC for patients that have progressed beyond the standard-of-care regimen of existing checkpoint inhibitors.

About MAIA Biotechnology, Inc.

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

Forward Looking Statements

MAIA cautions that all statements, other than statements of historical facts contained in this press release, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors that may cause our or our industry’s actual results, levels or activity, performance or achievements to be materially different from those anticipated by such statements. The use of words such as “may,” “might,” “will,” “should,” “could,” “expect,” “plan,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “project,” “intend,” “future,” “potential,” or “continue,” and other similar expressions are intended to identify forward looking statements. However, the absence of these words does not mean that statements are not forward-looking. For example, all statements we make regarding (i) the initiation, timing, cost, progress and results of our preclinical and clinical studies and our research and development programs, (ii) our ability to advance product candidates into, and successfully complete, clinical studies, (iii) the timing or likelihood of regulatory filings and approvals, (iv) our ability to develop, manufacture and commercialize our product candidates and to improve the manufacturing process, (v) the rate and degree of market acceptance of our product candidates, (vi) the size and growth potential of the markets for our product candidates and our ability to serve those markets, and (vii) our expectations regarding our ability to obtain and maintain intellectual property protection for our product candidates, are forward looking. All forward-looking statements are based on current estimates, assumptions and expectations by our management that, although we believe to be reasonable, are inherently uncertain. Any forward-looking statement expressing an expectation or belief as to future events is expressed in good faith and believed to be reasonable at the time such forward-looking statement is made. However, these statements are not guarantees of future events and are subject to risks and uncertainties and other factors beyond our control that may cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in any forward-looking statement. Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which it was made. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law. In this release, unless the context requires otherwise, “MAIA,” “Company,” “we,” “our,” and “us” refers to MAIA Biotechnology, Inc. and its subsidiaries.

1 Pharmaceutical Technology, GlobalData Pharma Intelligence Centre, January 2024

Investor Relations Contact
+1 (872) 270-3518
ir@maiabiotech.com

Source: MAIA Biotechnology, Inc.

Released December 16, 2024

Release – Hemisphere Energy Announces Updates to Its Share-Based Compensation Plans and Grants Incentive Restricted Share Units and Stock Options

Posted on by dburczyk@noblecapitalmarkets.com

Research News and Market Data on HMENF

Vancouver, British Columbia–(Newsfile Corp. – December 16, 2024) – Hemisphere Energy Corporation (TSXV: HME) (OTCQX: HMENF) (“Hemisphere” or the “Company”) announces that its Board of Directors has approved a new Restricted Share Unit (“RSU”) Plan and made certain amendments to its existing Stock Option Plan that are intended to comply with the provisions of TSXV Policy 4.4 – Security Based Compensation, as well as other housekeeping changes, both subject to shareholder approval at the next annual general meeting in May 2025. The Company’s Board of Directors has also approved grants of incentive RSUs and stock options.

Restricted Share Units

Under the new RSU Plan, RSUs may be granted to directors, employees, and contractors of the Company. The RSU Plan permits the Company to either redeem RSUs for cash or by issuance of Hemisphere’s common shares.

On December 13, 2024, the Company conditionally awarded 930,000 incentive RSUs to directors and officers of Hemisphere, all of which will vest one-third annually over a three-year period and will expire on December 15, 2027.

The RSU Plan and the grant of the above noted RSUs each remain subject to the requisite approval of the shareholders of the Company, in accordance with the rules of the TSX Venture Exchange. These matters, as well as matters relating to the amendments and renewal of the Company’s Stock Option Plan, are expected to be presented for approval at the Company’s next annual meeting of shareholders.

Stock Options

Additionally, in accordance with the Company’s Stock Option Plan, Hemisphere has granted 48,000 incentive stock options to its investor relations service provider on December 13, 2024 at an exercise price of $1.84 per share which will vest quarterly over 12 months and expire on December 13, 2029.

About Hemisphere Energy Corporation

Hemisphere is a dividend-paying Canadian oil company focused on maximizing value-per-share growth with the sustainable development of its high netback, ultra-low decline conventional heavy oil assets through polymer flood EOR methods. Hemisphere trades on the TSX Venture Exchange as a Tier 1 issuer under the symbol “HME” and on the OTCQX Venture Marketplace under the symbol “HMENF”.

For further information, please visit the Company’s website at www.hemisphereenergy.ca to view its corporate presentation or contact:

Don Simmons, President & Chief Executive Officer
Telephone: (604) 685-9255
Email: info@hemisphereenergy.ca

Website: www.hemisphereenergy.ca

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

info

SOURCE: Hemisphere Energy Corporation

Release – CoreCivic Announces Promotion of Patrick Swindle to President And Chief Operating Officer

Posted on by dburczyk@noblecapitalmarkets.com

Research News and Market Data on CXW

BRENTWOOD, Tenn., Dec. 16, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — CoreCivic, Inc. (NYSE: CXW) (“CoreCivic”) announced today that CoreCivic’s Board of Directors (the “Board”) has appointed Patrick Swindle, who currently serves as CoreCivic’s Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, to President and Chief Operating Officer, effective January 1, 2025.

Damon T. Hininger, who currently serves as CoreCivic’s Chief Executive Officer and President, will continue serving as CoreCivic’s Chief Executive Officer and as a member of the Board.

Mr. Hininger commented, “Patrick is an exceptional leader with a wide set of skills and talents and over the years has developed an in-depth knowledge of all aspects of our business, most recently having overseen the largest component of our business while serving as our Chief Operating Officer. Patrick has proven his ability to develop people and solve challenging problems, and I am confident that Patrick’s demonstrated abilities will serve us well as we enter a time period that we believe will have rapid growth.”

Mr. Swindle said, “I am humbled to be afforded this tremendous opportunity to serve as President and Chief Operating Officer of CoreCivic. I am honored to work alongside so many great professionals, and I look forward to helping our team to deliver our mission-critical services in a newly expanded role.”

Mr. Swindle joined CoreCivic in 2007 as Managing Director, Treasury and has held numerous positions, including Vice President, Strategic Development; Senior Vice President, Operations; and Executive Vice President and Chief Corrections Officer before promoting to Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. Prior to joining CoreCivic, Mr. Swindle spent ten years in equity research in the equity capital markets divisions of SunTrust Equitable Securities, Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. and Avondale Partners, LLC. Mr. Swindle holds a bachelor’s degree in finance from Western Kentucky University.

About CoreCivic

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

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This press release includes forward-looking statements concerning executive leadership positions at CoreCivic and prospects of growth in CoreCivic’s business. These forward-looking statements may include such words as “anticipate,” “estimate,” “expect,” “project,” “plan,” “intend,” “believe,” “may,” “will,” “should,” “can have,” “likely,” and other words and terms of similar meaning in connection with any discussion of the timing or nature of future operating or financial performance or other events. Such forward-looking statements may be affected by risks and uncertainties in CoreCivic’s business and market conditions. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from the statements made. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ are described in the filings made from time to time by CoreCivic with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) and include the risk factors described in CoreCivic’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2023, filed with the SEC on February 20, 2024. Except as required by applicable law, CoreCivic undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements made by it to reflect events or circumstances occurring after the date hereof or the occurrence of unanticipated events.

Release – V2X Opens New Corporate Headquarters in Reston, VA

Posted on by dburczyk@noblecapitalmarkets.com

Research News and Market Data on VVX

RESTON, Va., Dec. 16, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — V2X Inc., (NYSE: VVX) announces the opening of its new corporate headquarters in Reston, Virginia. This strategic move aligns with V2X’s commitment to innovation and operational excellence in support of national security, defense, and mission readiness worldwide.

Located in the heart of Northern Virginia’s business corridor, the headquarters provides a collaborative workspace to support the company’s global employees.

“Our new headquarters represents the next chapter of V2X’s growth and evolution,” said Jeremy C. Wensinger, President and Chief Executive Officer of V2X. “We are in a position to attract top talent and strengthen our ability to deliver solutions to our clients and partners worldwide.”

The new location reinforces V2X’s presence in a region that serves as a hub for defense, technology, and aerospace industries and will advance V2X’s missions.

About V2X
V2X builds innovative solutions that integrate physical and digital environments by aligning people, actions, and technology. V2X is embedded in all elements of a critical mission’s lifecycle to enhance readiness, optimize resource management, and boost security. The company provides innovation spanning national security, defense, civilian, and international markets. With a global team of approximately 16,000 professionals, V2X enables mission success by injecting AI and machine learning capabilities to meet today’s toughest challenges across all operational domains.

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

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

Cision View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/v2x-opens-new-corporate-headquarters-in-reston-va-302332017.html

SOURCE V2X, Inc.

Berkshire Hills and Brookline Bancorp Unite to Form $24 Billion Northeast Banking Leader

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

Berkshire Hills Bancorp, Inc. (NYSE: BHLB) and Brookline Bancorp, Inc. (NASDAQ: BRKL) have entered into a definitive agreement for a merger of equals, creating a premier banking franchise in the Northeast. The all-stock transaction, valued at approximately $1.1 billion, will combine the two storied institutions, resulting in a financial powerhouse with $24 billion in assets and a network of 148 branch offices across five states. This move is set to significantly enhance client services, shareholder value, and community impact.

The merger positions the combined entity among the top financial institutions in the Northeast, with a leading deposit market share in 14 of 19 metropolitan statistical areas (MSAs). The larger scale will enable greater investment in customers, employees, and markets while increasing lending capacity. This scale provides the foundation for significant growth opportunities and operational efficiencies.

A seasoned leadership team, comprising executives from both organizations, will drive operational efficiency and risk management. This synergy is expected to result in top-tier performance metrics and sustainable growth. Additionally, the combined company will consolidate four existing bank charters into a single Massachusetts state-chartered bank, streamlining operations.

Both Berkshire and Brookline bring deeply rooted community banking traditions and shared values of respect, teamwork, and accountability. Together, they aim to strengthen ties with local communities and enhance their positive social impact, leveraging their unique regional knowledge and customer-focused ethos.

The new organization will adopt a balanced leadership structure, with a 16-member Board of Directors split equally between Berkshire and Brookline representatives. David Brunelle, Chairperson of Berkshire’s Board, will lead the combined company’s board. Paul A. Perrault, CEO of Brookline, will serve as President and CEO of the combined entity.

Key leadership roles include:

  • Carl M. Carlson (Brookline) as Chief Financial and Strategy Officer.
  • Jacqueline Courtwright (Berkshire) as Chief Human Resources Officer.
  • Sean Gray (Berkshire) as Chief Operations Officer.
  • Michael McCurdy (Brookline) as Chief Banking Officer.
  • Mark Meiklejohn (Brookline) as Chief Credit Officer.
  • Wm. Gordon Prescott (Berkshire) as General Counsel.

The combined bank will operate under a regional structure, preserving the localized decision-making that has defined both organizations. Six Regional Presidents, drawn equally from Berkshire and Brookline, will oversee operations and client engagement in their respective markets. This approach ensures that the bank maintains strong local connections while benefiting from the efficiencies of a larger institution.

Brookline shareholders will receive 0.42 shares of Berkshire stock for each Brookline share. Following the merger, Berkshire shareholders will hold 51% of the combined entity, Brookline shareholders 45%, and new investors 4% through a $100 million common stock offering. The combined company will adopt a new name and ticker symbol, to be announced before the transaction closes in the second half of 2025. The capital raised will support the pro forma balance sheet and regulatory capital ratios, ensuring a strong financial foundation.

The headquarters for the combined entity will be at 131 Clarendon Street in Boston, MA, with operations centers distributed throughout the Northeast. The merger represents a significant step forward in creating a regional banking leader. With a focus on growth, efficiency, and community banking, this merger sets the stage for a robust future, leveraging the strengths of both institutions to benefit all stakeholders, including customers, employees, and shareholders.

Vince Holding Corp. (VNCE) – A Closer Look At The Recent Quarter

Posted on by cpereira@noblefcm.com


Monday, December 16, 2024

500 5th Avenue 20th Floor New York, NY 10110 United States Sector(s): Consumer Cyclical Industry: Apparel Manufacturing Full Time Employees: 599 Key Executives Name Title Pay Exercised Year Born Mr. Jonathan CEO & Director 825.62k N/A 1958 Ms. Marie Fogel Senior VP and Chief Merchandising & Manufacturing Officer 633.19k N/A 1961 Mr. John Chief Financial Officer

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.

Solid Q3 Results. The company reported favorable Q3 revenue of $80.2 million and adj. EBITDA of $7.1 million, both of which were in line with our estimates of $81.5 million and $7.0 million, respectively. Furthermore, gross margin improved by 580 basis points from the prior year period. In our view, the solid results demonstrate the efficacy of the company’s initiatives to enhance its expense structure and improve gross margins.

Improved gross margin. The company’s strong gross margin improvement was largely driven by a 480bp improvement in product costs and reduced freight costs, with an 80bp contribution from lower promotional activity and discounting in its Direct To Consumer (DTC) segment. 


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Equity Research is available at no cost to Registered users of Channelchek. Not a Member? Click ‘Join’ to join the Channelchek Community. There is no cost to register, and we never collect credit card information.

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

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

Aurania Resources (AUIAF) – Looking Ahead to a Catalyst-Rich 2025

Posted on by cpereira@noblefcm.com


Monday, December 16, 2024

Mark Reichman, Managing Director, Equity Research Analyst, Natural Resources, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

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

Private placement financing. Aurania announced the closing of the first tranche of its recently announced private placement of up to 8,888,888 units at a price of C$0.45 per unit to raise gross proceeds of up to C$4,000,000. In the first tranche, a total of 2,726,499 units were sold for gross proceeds of C$1,226,924.55. Each unit is comprised of one common share and one common share purchase warrant. Each warrant entitles the holder to purchase one common share at an exercise price of C$0.75 for a period of 24 months following the closing of the first tranche. The net proceeds will be used to fund exploration in France including impact studies, exploration programs at key targets in Ecuador, and working capital.

Preparing for 2025. In November, Aurania commenced an induced polarization (IP) geophysical survey over its Kuri-Yawi epithermal gold target at the company’s Lost Cities-Cutucu project in southeastern Ecuador. The IP survey is designed to identify deep conductors that could correspond to gold mineralization and to target drill holes for the planned program in 2025. The IP survey is expected to be completed this month with results expected in early 2025 following a review and interpretation of the data.


Get the Full Report

Equity Research is available at no cost to Registered users of Channelchek. Not a Member? Click ‘Join’ to join the Channelchek Community. There is no cost to register, and we never collect credit card information.

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

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

SoftBank Commits $100 Billion to US Tech and Jobs Under Trump Administration

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com
Key Points:
– SoftBank commits to a $100 billion investment in the US over the next four years, focusing on artificial intelligence and related infrastructure.
– The pledge promises the creation of 100,000 jobs in sectors like AI, semiconductors, and energy.
– The announcement follows SoftBank’s earlier ties with President Trump, marking a continuation of high-profile investment commitments to the US.

At a high-profile event in Mar-a-Lago, President-elect Donald Trump announced that SoftBank Group Corp. would commit to a $100 billion investment in the United States over the next four years. This pledge, made in partnership with SoftBank CEO Masayoshi Son, signals a strong belief in the country’s economic future, according to Trump.

During the event, Trump expressed his excitement, attributing the investment to the “confidence” that the election results instilled in Son and SoftBank. “He’s doing this because he feels very optimistic about our country since the election,” Trump said. Son echoed these sentiments, emphasizing his confidence in the US economy, stating, “I would really like to celebrate the great victory of President Trump.”

The investment plan focuses on creating 100,000 jobs, particularly in areas like artificial intelligence (AI), data centers, semiconductors, and energy infrastructure. These sectors are expected to thrive as AI technologies advance, offering substantial economic benefits while supporting the digital transformation of industries.

The announcement marks SoftBank’s most significant commitment to the US since its previous involvement during Trump’s first term. In 2016, Son pledged to create 50,000 jobs as part of a $50 billion investment, which saw SoftBank backing US companies through its Vision Fund. Despite the challenges SoftBank faced with some of its investments, such as the infamous WeWork debacle, the company is once again positioning itself as a key player in US economic growth.

Trump’s administration previously attracted major corporations to the US with promises of corporate tax cuts and deregulation. This time, he has reiterated the importance of boosting domestic investment by foreign companies, including proposals to expedite the permitting process for projects exceeding $1 billion. While it remains to be seen how these promises will unfold, they are seen as a key element in Trump’s efforts to revitalize US manufacturing and technology sectors.

However, questions linger regarding the authenticity and financial feasibility of the SoftBank pledge. While SoftBank has been raising capital for a $100 billion chip venture focused on AI, it remains unclear how much of the new investment is genuinely fresh. At the end of September, SoftBank’s cash and equivalents totaled $25 billion, leaving a gap between available resources and the pledged amount. Despite these concerns, SoftBank’s recent success with the IPO of its chip design company, Arm Holdings, valued at around $160 billion, provides a solid foundation for future investments.

Son, who recently invested $500 million in OpenAI, plans to further expand his ventures in AI, which he believes will revolutionize every industry. As for the ambitious pledge, Son jokingly responded to Trump’s challenge to increase the commitment to $200 billion, saying, “I will really try.”

In the wake of Trump’s victory, the announcement of this major investment underlines SoftBank’s continued influence in shaping the US tech landscape, as well as Son’s belief in the transformative power of AI to drive future economic growth.

Flushing Financial Seeks $70 Million in Capital Amid Challenges in Commercial Real Estate

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

Flushing Financial, a commercial real estate lender based in New York, has announced plans to raise $70 million to strengthen its financial footing. The move comes as the bank grapples with the impacts of rising interest rates, which have significantly affected the value of its investments.

According to reports, CEO John Buran has informed potential investors that the institution plans to sell off low-yielding bonds and loans tied to commercial real estate, including those backing multifamily properties. These sales, expected to incur losses, would require issuing new stock to generate the necessary capital.

The offering price for the equity sale has not been finalized, but estimates suggest it will range between $15 and $15.50 per share, a drop from the stock’s recent closing price of $17.25. This pricing reflects the challenges Flushing Financial faces in navigating a tough economic environment.

The bank’s decision highlights the broader struggles faced by community banks with significant exposure to commercial real estate. Like many regional banks with assets under $10 billion, Flushing Financial has felt the pressure of the Federal Reserve’s aggressive interest rate hikes over the past two years. The hikes have left these institutions with unrealized losses on their balance sheets, reducing their flexibility and heightening concerns about financial stability.

The Federal Reserve’s easing of interest rates, which began in September, has created some optimism among investors. However, regulators are still urging banks to improve their capital positions, often through confidential directives. This push reflects the ongoing challenges in ensuring the resilience of financial institutions during economic fluctuations.

Flushing Financial, which reported $9.3 billion in assets as of September, is not the first regional bank to face such challenges. Earlier this year, New York Community Bank raised capital to address concerns related to its commercial loan portfolio. Analysts expect more banks to follow suit, especially as stock prices in the banking sector have recovered somewhat this year.

Despite these headwinds, Flushing Financial has shown modest progress. Its stock has risen approximately 5% in 2024, though this lags behind the broader KBW Regional Banking Index, which has climbed 18% over the same period. CEO John Buran expressed cautious optimism in October, emphasizing the bank’s efforts to address challenges and build a stronger foundation for future growth.

The ongoing capital-raising effort represents a critical step for Flushing Financial as it adapts to an evolving economic landscape. By taking proactive measures, the bank aims to position itself for stability and growth in the years ahead, even amid persistent uncertainties in the commercial real estate market.

As community banks navigate these pressures, the sector will likely see a wave of similar actions, underscoring the importance of adaptability and resilience in the face of economic shifts. Flushing Financial’s ability to execute its strategy successfully will be a key indicator of its long-term prospects.

Release – CVG Announces Election of Jeffrey S. Niew to Board of Directors

Posted on by dburczyk@noblecapitalmarkets.com

Research News and Market Data on CVGI

NEW ALBANY, Ohio, Dec. 12, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Commercial Vehicle Group (the “Company” or “CVG”) (NASDAQ: CVGI), a diversified industrial products and services company, today announced that its Board of Directors (the “Board”) has elected Jeffrey S. Niew (58 years old) as an independent director to the Board, effective December 16, 2024.

Jeffrey S. Niew

Mr. Niew is the President & CEO (since 2013) of Knowles Corporation, a global market leader of highly engineered solutions utilizing semiconductors and electronic components technologies across a wide array of products and end markets. He was formerly the Vice President of Dover Corporation and President and CEO (from 2011 to February 2014) of Dover Communication Technologies. In 2014, Mr. Niew led the spin-off of Knowles from its previous owner Dover Corporation to a NSYE publicly traded company. Mr. Niew joined Knowles Electronics LLC in 2000, and became Chief Operating Officer in 2007, President in 2008 and President and CEO in 2010. Prior to joining Knowles Electronics, Mr. Niew was employed by Littelfuse, Inc. (from 1995 to 2000) where he held various positions in product management, sales and engineering in the Electronic Products group, and by Hewlett-Packard Company (from 1988 to 1994) where he served in various engineering and product management roles in the Optoelectronics Group. Other Board Experience: Mr. Niew is a member of the Advisory Board of the University of Illinois College of Engineering. He holds a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Illinois at Chicago.

“My fellow Board members and I are delighted to welcome Jeffrey to the Board,” said Robert Griffin, Chair of the Board of Directors. “His extensive experience with multi-unit operations across regions, as well as his current role leading a large, dispersed organization will be tremendous assets to our Board.”

“Being elected to the CVG Board of Directors is a significant honor,” said Mr. Niew. “I am excited to work alongside the Board’s distinguished leaders to help guide the Company into the future.”

Mr. Niew will stand for re-election at the Company’s 2025 Annual Meeting of Stockholders.

About CVG

At CVG, we deliver real solutions to complex design, engineering and manufacturing problems while creating positive change for our customers, industries, and communities we serve. Information about the Company and its products is available on the internet at www.cvgrp.com.

Investor Relations Contact:
Ross Collins or Stephen Poe
Alpha IR Group
CVGI@alpha-ir.com
Media Contact:
Patrick Woolford, Director, Communications
Patrick.woolford@cvgrp.com

Source: Commercial Vehicle Group, Inc.

Broadcom Stock Surges on “Massive” AI Growth Prospects

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com
Key Points:
– Broadcom (AVGO) shares soared over 20% following strong AI chip revenue projections.
– CEO Hock Tan revealed AI chips could generate up to $90 billion in revenue over three years.
– The company’s market cap surpassed $1 trillion, driven by AI-driven optimism.

Broadcom’s stock skyrocketed over 20% on Friday, hitting an all-time high, after the company unveiled robust expectations for its custom AI chips. CEO Hock Tan highlighted the company’s significant opportunities in the artificial intelligence sector during the latest earnings call, describing the potential revenue from its AI chip business as “massive.”

Tan announced that Broadcom anticipates $60 billion to $90 billion in revenue from its AI chips over the next three years, fueled by demand from three existing hyperscaler customers. While the company declined to name these clients, Tan projected that each would deploy one million clusters of Broadcom’s AI XPUs by 2025. Furthermore, the company confirmed that it has added two new hyperscaler clients who are advancing the development of next-generation AI chips. Industry reports suggest that these new customers may include OpenAI, the creator of ChatGPT, and Apple, both of whom are reportedly exploring custom AI chip solutions to enhance their capabilities and reduce reliance on GPU leader Nvidia.

Broadcom’s share price surged past $220 during Friday’s trading session, boosting its market capitalization to over $1 trillion. The stock’s remarkable rise—up approximately 98% for the year—reflects robust investor confidence in the company’s ability to capitalize on growing demand for AI chips. This surge comes amidst heightened interest in AI technologies, which have become a focal point for tech giants looking to gain competitive advantages.

The company’s financial performance further underscores the significance of its AI initiatives. While Broadcom’s overall semiconductor revenue grew 12% year-over-year to $8.2 billion in the fourth quarter, the numbers reveal a sharp divergence between AI and non-AI segments. Revenue from AI chip sales surged 150% to $3.7 billion, while non-AI semiconductor revenue declined 23% to $4.5 billion. Broadcom’s CEO acknowledged this disparity, emphasizing that the AI semiconductor business will likely outpace the non-AI segment in the coming years.

This trend aligns with broader market dynamics, as the AI chip sector is poised for rapid growth. According to consulting firm International Business Strategies, the AI chip market is projected to expand by 74% in 2025, far outpacing the 12% growth expected for the semiconductor industry as a whole. Analysts believe this trend will persist through the decade as businesses increasingly adopt AI-driven technologies.

Despite these optimistic projections, some analysts exercised caution. Bernstein analyst Stacy Rasgon raised his price target for Broadcom to $250, highlighting the company’s strong performance and potential, but also noted that its high valuation could limit upside potential in the near term. Similarly, Raymond James analyst Srini Pajjuri maintained a neutral stance, citing concerns about Broadcom’s current trading level, which is approximately 33 times its projected fiscal year 2025 earnings.

Broadcom’s achievements reflect its strategic positioning in the AI ecosystem, supported by strong partnerships with leading technology firms. The company’s role in developing advanced chips for data centers, consumer electronics, and enterprise applications ensures its relevance in a competitive landscape. However, challenges persist. While Big Tech companies are investing heavily in AI infrastructure, questions remain about the sustainability of these expenditures, particularly as some firms struggle to monetize AI technologies effectively.

As the industry continues to evolve, Broadcom’s ability to maintain its competitive edge will be crucial. With its innovative AI chip offerings and strategic collaborations, the company is well-positioned to navigate the complexities of a rapidly growing market. Whether it can sustain its momentum amid high expectations remains a pivotal question for investors and industry observers alike.