Month: January 2025

Century Lithium Corp. (CYDVF) – Setting the Stage for an Anchor Sodium Hydroxide Off-take Agreement

Posted on by cpereira@noblefcm.com


Wednesday, January 22, 2025

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.

Paving the way for an off-take agreement. Century Lithium recently executed a non-binding memorandum of understanding (MOU) to formalize a multi-year off-take agreement with Orica Specialty Chemicals to purchase sodium hydroxide from Century Lithium’s wholly owned Angel Island project. Orica is a leading mining and infrastructure solutions provider, the largest producer of sodium cyanide, and a supplier of specialty mining chemicals to Nevada’s mining industry.

Initial term of five years. The contemplated off-take agreement will have an initial term of five years and a right of first offer for an additional five years. It would account for a large portion of the surplus sodium hydroxide produced during the early years of the Angel Island project’s operation. A definitive agreement will contain pricing terms.


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Release – Kratos Receives $34.8M Contract for Valkyrie Mission System Integration

Posted on by dburczyk@noblecapitalmarkets.com

Research News and Market Data on KTOS

SAN DIEGO, Jan. 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. (Nasdaq: KTOS), a Technology Company in Defense, National Security and Global Markets, announced today a $34,856,449 award modification to a previously awarded cost-plus-fixed-fee contract from the U.S. Marine Corps. The expanded scope is to support the XQ-58A Unmanned Aerial Systems mission systems and subsystems integration for the Marine Air-Ground Task Force Unmanned Aerial System Expeditionary (MUX) Tactical Aircraft (TACAIR).

Since 2022, Kratos and its industry partner, Northrop Grumman, have been working with the U.S. Marine Corps to define operational requirements for the MQ-58 Valkyrie variant. The team recently demonstrated advanced collaborative capabilities during the Penetrating Affordable Autonomous Collaborative Killer Portfolio (PAACK-P) program, which is transitioning to MUX TACAIR in 2025. The modification contract provides the additional non-recurring engineering and material to support the planned spiral developmental efforts, as well as additional flight tests for the continuing capability enhancement of the Valkyrie system.

Work under this contract will be performed in Sacramento, California, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, China Lake, California and Patuxent River, Maryland.

Col Derek Brannon, Director of the HQ USMC Cunningham Group, said, “The U.S. Marine Corps is at the vanguard of collaborative combat aircraft (CCA) development and intends to field an operational CCA squadron with a tactically relevant aircraft equipped with effective, affordable mission system payloads.”

Steve Fendley, President of Kratos Unmanned Systems Division, said, “The Valkyrie is validating the thesis that uncrewed system development and evaluation can be executed at a fraction of the cost and schedule required for manned military jet aircraft systems. The immediate takeaway is recognizing that uncrewed systems can be teamed in the very near term with existing fielded manned aircraft—reducing risk and increasing effectiveness and life of the manned systems long before replacement or next generation manned systems can be fielded, not to mention afforded. It’s an incredible opportunity.”

The Kratos XQ-58A Valkyrie is a high-performance, runway-independent tactical unmanned aerial vehicle capable of long-range flights at high-subsonic speeds. Combining affordability, survivability, long-range, high-subsonic speeds, maneuverability and ability to carry flexible mission kit configurations and mix of lethal weapons from its internal weapons bay and wing stations, the XQ-58A provides unmatched operational flexibility at an affordable price for multiple DoD customers.

About Kratos Defense & Security Solutions
Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. (NASDAQ: KTOS) is a technology, products, system and software company addressing the defense, national security, and commercial markets. Kratos makes true internally funded research, development, capital and other investments, to rapidly develop, produce and field solutions that address our customers’ mission critical needs and requirements. At Kratos, affordability is a technology, and we seek to utilize proven, leading-edge approaches and technology, not unproven bleeding edge approaches or technology, with Kratos’ approach designed to reduce cost, schedule and risk, enabling us to be first to market with cost effective solutions. We believe that Kratos is known as an innovative disruptive change agent in the industry, a company that is an expert in designing products and systems up front for successful rapid, large quantity, low-cost future manufacturing which is a value-add competitive differentiator for our large traditional prime system integrator partners and also to our government and commercial customers. Kratos intends to pursue program and contract opportunities as the prime or lead contractor when we believe that our probability of win (PWin) is high and any investment required by Kratos is within our capital resource comfort level. We intend to partner and team with a large, traditional system integrator when our assessment of PWin is greater or required investment is beyond Kratos’ comfort level. Kratos’ primary business areas include virtualized ground systems for satellites and space vehicles including software for command & control (C2) and telemetry, tracking and control (TT&C), jet powered unmanned aerial drone systems, hypersonic vehicles and rocket systems, propulsion systems for drones, missiles, loitering munitions, supersonic systems, space craft and launch systems, C5ISR and microwave electronic products for missile, radar, missile defense, space, satellite, counter UAS, directed energy, communication and other systems, and virtual & augmented reality training systems for the warfighter. For more information, visit www.KratosDefense.com.

Notice Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
Certain statements in this press release may constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements are made on the basis of the current beliefs, expectations and assumptions of the management of Kratos and are subject to significant risks and uncertainty. Investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements. All such forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made, and Kratos undertakes no obligation to update or revise these statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Although Kratos believes that the expectations reflected in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, these statements involve many risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from what may be expressed or implied in these forward-looking statements. For a further discussion of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ from those expressed in these forward-looking statements, as well as risks relating to the business of Kratos in general, see the risk disclosures in the Annual Report on Form 10-K of Kratos for the year ended December 31, 2023, and in subsequent reports on Forms 10-Q and 8-K and other filings made with the SEC by Kratos.

Press Contact:
Claire Burghoff
claire.burghoff@kratosdefense.com

Investor Information:
877-934-4687
investor@kratosdefense.com

Primary Logo

Source: Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc.

Release – LODE: Comstock Fuels Executes Agreement with Hexas Biomass

Posted on by dburczyk@noblecapitalmarkets.com

Research News and Market Data on LODE

Combines Pioneering Bioleum Refining Process with High Yield Energy Crops to Create Perpetual “Drop-In Permian Basins” with the Capacity for Domestic Energy Dominance 

OKLAHOMA CITY, OKLAHOMA – JANUARY 21, 2025 – Comstock Inc. (NYSE American: LODE) today announced that its subsidiary, Comstock Fuels Corporation (“Comstock Fuels”), a leader in advanced lignocellulosic technologies, has executed an agreement with Hexas Biomass Inc. (“Hexas”), securing exclusive rights to Hexas’ intellectual properties in liquid fuels applications, subject to certain pre-existing agreements and relationships.  

Domestic Energy Dominance

Comstock Fuels delivers advanced lignocellulosic biomass refining solutions that set industry benchmarks for production of renewable BioleumTM fuels at market-leading yields of up to 140 gallons per dry metric ton of feedstock (on a gasoline gallon equivalent basis, or “GGE”), depending on feedstock, site conditions, and other process parameters.

Hexas has developed a suite of proprietary intellectual properties for the propagation, production, harvesting, and processing of purpose grown energy crops with proven yields exceeding 25 to 30 dry metric tons per acre per year, or about 4 to 7 times the yields of traditional forestry species. Hexas crops are specifically designed to thrive in diverse environments, including marginal or underutilized lands, that complement and enhance the current agricultural ecosystem without disrupting or competing with food production.

The combination of Comstock Fuels’ high yield Bioleum refining platform and Hexas’ high yield energy crops allows for the production of enough feedstock to produce upwards of 100 barrels of fuel per acre per year, effectively transforming marginal agricultural lands into perpetual “drop-in sedimentary oilfields” with the potential to dramatically boost domestic energy independence and expand and elevate rural economies while using regenerative agricultural practices. For comparison, producers of soy and corn only net about 2 and 10 barrels of biofuel per acre per year, respectively.

The New Standard in Oil

“The U.S. DOE has previously estimated that America can produce upwards of one billion tons per year of biomass for conversion into transportation fuels,” said Kevin Kreisler, Comstock Fuels’ chief technology officer. “That’s enough to produce more than 3 billion barrels of fuel per year with our refining solutions. Converting just 5% of America’s agricultural lands, or about 40 million acres, into profitable fuel farms with Hexas’ high yield energy crops would double that output with Bioleum fuels, thereby filling America’s entire annual oil demand for energy and transportation while contributing to extraordinary prosperity across rural American industrial and farming communities.”

Comstock Fuels plans to partner with oil producers and enable domestic energy dominance by directly building, owning, and operating a network of U.S. Bioleum Refineries. Comstock Fuels plans to demonstrate the remarkable economic and other incentives of its solutions at scale with a 75,000 metric ton per year commercial demonstration facility in Oklahoma, which is now also planned to include a local 5,000-acre fuel farm based on the Hexas energy crop technologies.

Transformative Development Opportunity

“At Hexas, we believe in making the highest and best use of natural resources,” added Wendy Owens, Hexas’ chief executive officer. “This includes providing industries with access to abundant, carbon negative, and ecologically positive feedstocks. Our philosophical and strategic alignment with Comstock leverages two quality-minded systems capable of sustainable, global, natural, social and financial impact. We are ready to integrate and deploy our capacity and solutions into what should quickly prove out to be a truly carbon negative impact in liquid fuels.”

“Including an embedded feedstock model in our system provides unprecedented benefits to our renewable fuel solutions, supply chains and partners,” added David Winsness, Comstock Fuels’ president. “While our solutions are designed to process most known forms of lignocellulosic biomass, the Hexas technologies now allow us to “anchor” each of our owned and licensed Bioleum Refineries with a captive, perpetual feedstock supply, ensuring the reliability, consistency, scale, and pricing needed to mitigate risk and maximize profitability. Existing project developers and producers should consider this announcement as an open call to partner with us to change their process technologies and elevate their solutions.”

Kreisler concluded, “Our ultimate ambition is to build shareholder value by systemically empowering agricultural, forestry, pulp and paper, renewable fuels, petroleum, energy, and mobility stakeholders to license and deploy our solutions across their respective industries at speeds that are far greater than any single company could ever achieve. We are laser focused on enabling that system, and we couldn’t be more excited to partner with Hexas and its remarkable team.” 

The new agreement also calls for a $500,000 strategic investment into Hexas from Comstock Fuels and for the two companies to execute a joint development agreement to collaborate on site development activities for planned Bioleum Refineries and further innovations for Comstock Fuels.

About Hexas Biomass Inc.

Hexas Biomass Inc. (“Hexas”) produces purpose grown plant-based feedstock solutions from proprietary varieties of a giant perennial grasses, including XanoGrass™ to produce XanoFiber™. XanoGrass™ is a perennial, fast growing, extremely high yielding biomass that is pest resistant, with remarkably wide climate and soil type adaptions that supplements traditional feedstocks at equal or better performances and lowers costs while leveraging existing infrastructures.

About Comstock Fuels Corporation

Comstock Fuels Corporation (“Comstock”) delivers advanced lignocellulosic biomass refining solutions that set industry benchmarks for production of cellulosic ethanol, gasoline, renewable diesel, sustainable aviation fuel (“SAF”), and other renewable fuels, with extremely low carbon intensity scores of 15 and market-leading yields of up to 140 gallons per dry metric ton of feedstock (on a gasoline gallon equivalent basis, or “GGE”), depending on feedstock, lignin content, site conditions, and other process parameters. Comstock plans to contribute to domestic energy dominance by directly building, owning, and operating a network of Bioleum Refineries in the U.S. to refine 50 million tons of biomass annually into 8 billion gallons of renewable fuel by 2035, starting with its first 75,000 TPY commercial demonstration facility in Oklahoma. Comstock also licenses its advanced refining solutions to third parties for additional production in the U.S. and global markets, including several recently announced and other pending projects. To learn more, please visit www.comstockfuels.com.

About Comstock Inc.

Comstock Inc. (NYSE: LODE) innovates and commercializes technologies that are deployable across entire industries to contribute to energy abundance by efficiently extracting and converting under-utilized natural resources, such as waste and other forms of woody biomass into renewable fuels, and end-of-life electronics into recovered electrification metals. Comstock’s innovations group is also developing and using artificial intelligence technologies for advanced materials development and mineral discovery for sustainable mining. To learn more, please visit www.comstock.inc.

Comstock Social Media Policy

Comstock has used, and intends to continue using, its investor relations link and main website at www.comstock.inc in addition to its Twitter, LinkedIn and YouTube accounts, as means of disclosing material non-public information and for complying with its disclosure obligations under Regulation FD.

Contacts

For investor inquiries:
RB Milestone Group LLC
Tel (203) 487-2759
ir@comstockinc.com

For media inquiries or questions:
Comstock Inc., Tracy Saville
Tel (775) 847-7573
media@comstockinc.com

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release and any related calls or discussions may include 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. All statements, other than statements of historical facts, are forward-looking statements. The words “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “project,” “plan,” “should,” “intend,” “may,” “will,” “would,” “potential” and similar expressions identify forward-looking statements but are not the exclusive means of doing so. Forward-looking statements include statements about matters such as: future market conditions; future explorations or acquisitions; future changes in our research, development and exploration activities; future financial, natural, and social gains; future prices and sales of, and demand for, our products and services; land entitlements and uses; permits; production capacity and operations; operating and overhead costs; future capital expenditures and their impact on us; operational and management changes (including changes in the Board of Directors); changes in business strategies, planning and tactics; future employment and contributions of personnel, including consultants; future land and asset sales; investments, acquisitions, joint ventures, strategic alliances, business combinations, operational, tax, financial and restructuring initiatives, including the nature, timing and accounting for restructuring charges, derivative assets and liabilities and the impact thereof; contingencies; litigation, administrative or arbitration proceedings; environmental compliance and changes in the regulatory environment; offerings, limitations on sales or offering of equity or debt securities, including asset sales and associated costs; business opportunities, growth rates, future working capital, needs, revenues, variable costs, throughput rates, operating expenses, debt levels, cash flows, margins, taxes and earnings. These statements are based on assumptions and assessments made by our management in light of their experience and their perception of historical and current trends, current conditions, possible future developments and other factors they believe to be appropriate. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees, representations or warranties and are subject to risks and uncertainties, many of which are unforeseeable and beyond our control and could cause actual results, developments, and business decisions to differ materially from those contemplated by such forward-looking statements. Some of those risks and uncertainties include the risk factors set forth in our filings with the SEC and the following: adverse effects of climate changes or natural disasters; adverse effects of global or regional pandemic disease spread or other crises; global economic and capital market uncertainties; the speculative nature of gold or mineral exploration, and lithium, nickel and cobalt recycling, including risks of diminishing quantities or grades of qualified resources; operational or technical difficulties in connection with exploration, metal recycling, processing or mining activities; costs, hazards and uncertainties associated with precious and other metal based activities, including environmentally friendly and economically enhancing clean mining and processing technologies, precious metal exploration, resource development, economic feasibility assessment and cash generating mineral production; costs, hazards and uncertainties associated with metal recycling, processing or mining activities; contests over our title to properties; potential dilution to our stockholders from our stock issuances, recapitalization and balance sheet restructuring activities; potential inability to comply with applicable government regulations or law; adoption of or changes in legislation or regulations adversely affecting our businesses; permitting constraints or delays; challenges to, or potential inability to, achieve the benefits of business opportunities that may be presented to, or pursued by, us, including those involving battery technology and efficacy, quantum computing and generative artificial intelligence supported advanced materials development, development of cellulosic technology in bio-fuels and related material production; commercialization of cellulosic technology in bio-fuels and generative artificial intelligence development services; ability to successfully identify, finance, complete and integrate acquisitions, joint ventures, strategic alliances, business combinations, asset sales, and investments that we may be party to in the future; changes in the United States or other monetary or fiscal policies or regulations; interruptions in our production capabilities due to capital constraints; equipment failures; fluctuation of prices for gold or certain other commodities (such as silver, zinc, lithium, nickel, cobalt, cyanide, water, diesel, gasoline and alternative fuels and electricity); changes in generally accepted accounting principles; adverse effects of war, mass shooting, terrorism and geopolitical events; potential inability to implement our business strategies; potential inability to grow revenues; potential inability to attract and retain key personnel; interruptions in delivery of critical supplies, equipment and raw materials due to credit or other limitations imposed by vendors; assertion of claims, lawsuits and proceedings against us; potential inability to satisfy debt and lease obligations; potential inability to maintain an effective system of internal controls over financial reporting; potential inability or failure to timely file periodic reports with the Securities and Exchange Commission; potential inability to list our securities on any securities exchange or market or maintain the listing of our securities; and work stoppages or other labor difficulties. Occurrence of such events or circumstances could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows, or the market price of our securities. All subsequent written and oral forward-looking statements by or attributable to us or persons acting on our behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by these factors. Except as may be required by securities or other law, we undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise. Neither this press release nor any related calls or discussions constitutes an offer to sell, the solicitation of an offer to buy or a recommendation with respect to any securities of the Company, the fund, or any other issuer.

Release – Townsquare Media, Inc. Reports Preliminary Estimated 2024 Results

Posted on by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

Research News and Market Data on TSQ

January 21, 2025

PURCHASE, N.Y., Jan. 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Townsquare Media, Inc. (NYSE: TSQ) (“Townsquare”, the “Company,” “we,” “us,” or “our”) announced today preliminary estimated financial results for the fourth quarter and full year ended December 31, 2024.

“We are pleased to pre-announce our fourth quarter and full year 2024 estimated results that are directly in-line with the expectations and guidance we had previously outlined on our third quarter earnings call. We expect full year net revenue will be between $450 million and $452 million, within our guidance range of $448 million to $452 million. Therefore, we expect fourth quarter net revenue will be between $117 million and $119 million. In addition, we expect full year 2024 Adjusted EBITDA will be approximately $100 million, within our guidance range of $100 million to $101 million. Therefore, we expect fourth quarter Adjusted EBITDA will be approximately $31 million,” commented Bill Wilson, Chief Executive Officer of Townsquare Media, Inc. “As anticipated, our digital divisions had a very strong fourth quarter, as Townsquare Interactive returned to year-over-year revenue growth, and Digital Advertising net revenue accelerated to year-over-year growth rates in excess of +15%, helped by national digital advertising returning to revenue growth together with ongoing strength in our digital programmatic business. In total, we expect fourth quarter Digital revenue to increase approximately +11% year-over-year, and represent 52% of Townsquare’s net revenue in 2024, a true point of differentiation from others in local media, as we have evolved from a local broadcast radio company that was founded in 2010, to a Digital First Local Media Company with a world class team and a unique and differentiated strategy, assets, platforms and solutions. Further, we could not be more pleased to share that we are continuing to expand our Media Partnerships division, whereby we provide a white-label service that equips other local media companies with the digital advertising solutions that have driven Townsquare’s success. Following our October 2024 announcement that we partnered with SummitMedia, who operates in nine markets that do not overlap with Townsquare’s footprint, we have recently entered an agreement with another local media provider who operates in two additional non-overlapping markets. We expect that partnership to launch this summer.”

Mr. Wilson continued, “Given the cash generative nature of our business and our strong cash position, we were able to repurchase and retire approximately $12 million of our Senior Secured Notes in the fourth quarter (and $36 million in total in 2024), ending the year with $467 million of debt and $33 million of cash on hand. The combination of our healthy balance sheet, ongoing digital strength and momentum, Digital First Local Media strategy, and focus on markets outside of the Top 50 U.S. cities, reinvigorates my confidence in our business model and our path to long-term, sustainable growth and success.”

The information presented herein is based on internally available financial information that has not been audited or subject to regular period end closing procedures. As such, the financial guidance presented above reflects various assumptions and estimates based only upon information available to management as of the date hereof. This information should not be viewed as a substitute for full audited financial statements prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States (“GAAP”). As a result, while this information is presented with ranges and approximations that management considers to be reasonable, it remains in all cases subject to change pending finalization. It is very difficult to predict the impact of known factors and it is impossible for the Company to anticipate all factors that could affect its actual results. Actual results may differ materially from the estimates presented above due to developments or other information that may arise between now and the time the financial results for the fourth quarter and fiscal year are finalized. Therefore, you should not place undue reliance on estimated financial information provided herein, which speaks only as of the date hereof. Estimates of results are inherently uncertain and subject to change, and the Company does not undertake any obligation to update this information. The Company’s independent registered public accounting firm, BDO USA, P.C., has not audited, reviewed, compiled or performed any procedures with respect to any of the estimated financial information. Accordingly, BDO USA, P.C. does not express an opinion or any other form of assurance with respect thereto. The preliminary estimated financial information for the quarter and year ended December 31, 2024 is not necessarily indicative of the results to be achieved in any future period.

About Townsquare Media, Inc.

Townsquare is a community-focused digital media and digital marketing solutions company with market leading local radio stations, principally focused outside the top 50 markets in the U.S. Our assets include a subscription digital marketing services business, Townsquare Interactive, providing website design, creation and hosting, search engine optimization, social media and online reputation management as well as other digital monthly services for SMBs; a robust digital advertising division, Townsquare Ignite, a powerful combination of a) an owned and operated portfolio of more than 400 local news and entertainment websites and mobile apps along with a network of leading national music and entertainment brands, collecting valuable first party data and b) a proprietary digital programmatic advertising technology stack with an in-house demand and data management platform; and a portfolio of 345 local terrestrial radio stations in 74 U.S. markets strategically situated outside the Top 50 markets in the United States. Our portfolio includes local media brands such as WYRK.com, WJON.com and NJ101.5.com, and premier national music brands such as XXLmag.com, TasteofCountry.com, UltimateClassicRock.com, and Loudwire.com. For more information, please visit www.townsquaremedia.com, www.townsquareinteractive.com and www.townsquareignite.com.

Forward-Looking Statements
Except for the historical information contained in this press release, the matters addressed are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements often discuss our current expectations and projections relating to our financial condition, results of operations, plans, objectives, future performance and business. You can identify forward-looking statements by the fact that they do not relate strictly to historical or current facts. These statements may include words such as “aim,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “expect,” “forecast,” “outlook,” “potential,” “project,” “projection,” “plan,” “intend,” “seek,” “believe,” “may,” “could,” “would,” “will,” “should,” “can,” “can have,” “likely,” the negatives thereof and other words and terms. Actual events or results may differ materially from the results anticipated in these forward-looking statements as a result of a variety of factors. While it is impossible to identify all such factors, factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those estimated by us include the impact of general economic conditions in the United States, or in the specific markets in which we currently do business including supply chain disruptions, inflation, labor shortages and the effect on advertising activity, industry conditions, including existing competition and future competitive technologies, the popularity of radio as a broadcasting and advertising medium, cancellations, disruptions or postponements of advertising schedules in response to national or world events, our ability to develop and maintain digital technologies and hire and retain technical and sales talent, our dependence on key personnel, our capital expenditure requirements, our continued ability to identify suitable acquisition targets, and consummate and integrate any future acquisitions, legislative or regulatory requirements, risks and uncertainties relating to our leverage and changes in interest rates, our ability to obtain financing at times, in amounts and at rates considered appropriate by us, our ability to access the capital markets as and when needed and on terms that we consider favorable to us and other factors discussed in “Risk Factors” and “Forward-Looking Statements” in our 2023 Annual Report on Form 10-K, for the year ended December 31, 2023, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on March 15, 2024, as well as other risks discussed from time to time in our filings with the SEC. Many of these factors are beyond our ability to predict or control. In addition, as a result of these and other factors, our past financial performance should not be relied on as an indication of future performance. The cautionary statements referred to in this section also should be considered in connection with any subsequent written or oral forward-looking statements that may be issued by us or persons acting on our behalf. The forward-looking statements included in this press release are made only as of the date hereof or as of the date specified herein. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

Non-GAAP Financial Measures and Definitions
In this press release, we refer to Adjusted EBITDA, which is a financial measure that has not been prepared in accordance with GAAP.

We define Adjusted EBITDA as net income before the deduction of income taxes, interest expense, net, gain on repurchases of debt, transaction and business realignment costs, depreciation and amortization, stock-based compensation, impairments, net loss (gain) on sale and retirement of assets and other expense (income) net. This measure does not represent, and should not be considered as an alternative to or superior to, financial results and measures determined or calculated in accordance with GAAP. In addition, this non-GAAP measure is not based on any comprehensive set of accounting rules or principles. You should be aware that in the future we may incur expenses or charges that are the same as or similar to some of the adjustments in the presentation, and we do not infer that our future results will be unaffected by unusual or non-recurring items. In addition, this non-GAAP measure may not be comparable to similarly-named measures reported by other companies. Net income, the most directly comparable GAAP measure to Adjusted EBITDA, and a reconciliation of Adjusted EBITDA to net income are not included herein because we are not able to estimate certain components of these measures without unreasonable effort. In addition, the Company believes such a reconciliation would imply a degree of precision and certainty that could be confusing to investors. The variability of the specified items may have a significant and unpredictable impact on our future GAAP results.

We use Adjusted EBITDA to facilitate company-to-company operating performance comparisons by backing out potential differences caused by variations in capital structures (affecting interest expense), taxation and the age and book depreciation of facilities and equipment (affecting relative depreciation expense), which may vary for different companies for reasons unrelated to operating performance. We believe that this measure, when considered together with our GAAP financial results, provides management and investors with a more complete understanding of our business operating results, including underlying trends, by excluding the effects of transaction costs, net loss (gain) on sale and retirement of assets, business realignment costs and certain impairments. Further, while discretionary bonuses for members of management are not determined with reference to specific targets, our board of directors may consider Adjusted EBITDA when determining discretionary bonuses.

Investor Relations
Claire Yenicay
(203) 900-5555
investors@townsquaremedia.com

Trump’s Tariff Plan: A Bold Shift in North American Trade Policy

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com
Key Points:
– Trump plans 25% tariffs on Mexico and Canada starting February 1.
– Critics warn of inflation and trade retaliation risks.
– Supporters see tariffs as a tool to protect U.S. industries.

President Donald Trump has announced plans to impose 25% tariffs on Mexico and Canada starting February 1, signaling a dramatic shift in North American trade policy. The move, revealed during an Oval Office signing ceremony, marks a stark departure from the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) established during Trump’s first term. This decision could lead to higher prices for American consumers and significant changes in trade dynamics with two of the United States’ largest trading partners.

The executive action signed by Trump directs federal agencies to investigate the causes of U.S. trade deficits, evaluate the impact of existing trade agreements, and explore ways to implement stricter trade policies. Among the areas of focus is the USMCA, which the administration will assess to determine whether the agreement adequately serves American workers and businesses. The action also emphasizes the administration’s commitment to reducing the flow of fentanyl and undocumented migrants into the U.S. by leveraging stricter trade measures.

Trump’s proposal to overhaul trade policy aligns with his “America First” agenda, which seeks to prioritize American manufacturers, farmers, and workers. In his inaugural address, Trump emphasized the need to shift the burden of taxation from American citizens to foreign nations through tariffs. The administration’s aim to establish an “External Revenue Service” to collect tariffs further underscores the president’s commitment to this vision. However, the exact mechanisms for implementing these sweeping changes remain under debate within the administration.

Critics argue that imposing such high tariffs could backfire, harming the U.S. economy and straining relationships with key trading partners. Mexico and Canada collectively accounted for 30% of all U.S. imports in 2024, and retaliatory tariffs could impact American exports, particularly in industries like agriculture, automotive, and manufacturing. Economists warn that these measures could also exacerbate inflation, raising costs for American consumers already grappling with economic pressures.

Proponents of the tariff plan argue that import taxes could serve as a strategic tool to protect domestic industries and strengthen the U.S. economy in the long run. Trump has historically used tariff threats to bring foreign nations to the negotiating table, achieving concessions in trade agreements. However, the administration’s current stance has sparked concerns about potential trade wars and the broader implications for global trade relations.

The ideological divide within Trump’s economic team reflects ongoing debates about the best approach to achieve the administration’s goals. Some advisers advocate for a gradual implementation of tariffs to allow time for negotiations, while others support immediate and comprehensive measures to send a strong message. The legal basis for the tariffs, including the possible use of emergency powers, remains a key area of discussion.

As the February 1 deadline approaches, businesses and consumers are bracing for the potential impact of these tariffs. Analysts predict higher costs for imported goods, including electrical devices, transportation equipment, and everyday consumer products. Retaliatory measures from Mexico and Canada could further disrupt supply chains and affect industries reliant on cross-border trade.

The ultimate success of Trump’s trade policy will depend on its execution and the administration’s ability to navigate the complexities of international trade. While the president remains committed to fulfilling his campaign pledges, the long-term consequences of these tariffs on the U.S. economy and global trade landscape remain uncertain. Investors, businesses, and consumers alike will be closely watching as the situation unfolds.

Release – Century Lithium and Orica Specialty Mining Chemicals Sign MOU for Sodium Hydroxide From Angel Island

Posted on by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

Research News and Market Data on CYVDF

January 21, 2025 – Vancouver, Canada – Century Lithium Corp. (TSXV: LCE) (OTCQX: CYDVF) (Frankfurt: C1Z) (Century Lithium) is pleased to announce it signed a non-binding memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Orica Specialty Mining Chemicals (Orica) on January 16, 2025. The non-binding MOU outlines the intent of Century Lithium and Orica to formalize a multiyear offtake agreement for Orica to purchase sodium hydroxide (NaOH) from Century Lithium’s wholly owned Angel Island project near Silver Peak, Nevada. Orica is one of the world’s leading mining and infrastructure solutions providers, and a major US manufacturer and supplier of specialty mining chemicals to Nevada’s mining industry.

“The non-binding MOU with Orica marks a key milestone for Angel Island,” said Century Lithium President and CEO, Bill Willoughby. “The MOU outlines the first expected agreement of its kind for the project and involves a large portion of the surplus sodium hydroxide anticipated during the early years of operation. We are excited to work with Orica and have their support at this stage of development at Angel Island.”

Orica President Specialty Mining Chemicals Andrew Stewart said: “This collaboration signifies our commitment to strengthening and unlocking Nevada’s manufacturing and mining sectors. By securing a reliable source of sodium hydroxide from Angel Island, we strengthen the local supply chain and reinforce our dedication to innovative US manufacturing solutions for our customers in North America.”

Century Lithium patent-pending process for extracting lithium from the claystone at Angel Island combines chloride leaching with direct lithium extraction and uses salt, in the form of solid sodium chloride or saline brine, to make the reagents for leaching and pH control. In addition to lithium, the process produces surplus sodium hydroxide, the sales of which are anticipated to underpin low operating costs for Angel Island’s primary product, lithium carbonate.

Highlights of MOU

  • Century Lithium to intends to provide Orica membrane-grade sodium hydroxide (NaOH)
  • Initial 5-year term, right of first offer for an additional 5 years
  • Pricing to be determined by definitive agreement
  • Orica – Century Lithium relationship will strengthen the U.S. supply chain, reducing reliance on imports of NaOH to the western U.S. and supporting Nevada’s mining industry

ABOUT ORICA

Orica (ASX: ORI) is one of the world’s leading mining and infrastructure solutions providers. From the production and supply of explosives, blasting systems, specialty mining chemicals and geotechnical monitoring to our cutting-edge digital solutions and comprehensive range of services, we sustainably mobilize the earth’s resources.

 Operating for more than 150 years, today our 14,000+ global workforce supports customers across surface and underground mines, quarry, construction, and oil and gas operations.

With a sodium cyanide manufacturing plants located in Winnemucca, Nevada and Alvin Texas, Orica is now the world’s largest producer of sodium cyanide and supplier to the Nevada mining industry, a leader in U.S. gold production. Find out more about Orica: www.orica.com

ABOUT CENTURY LITHIUM CORP.

Century Lithium Corp. is an advanced stage lithium company, focused on developing its wholly-owned Angel Island project in Esmeralda County, Nevada, which hosts one of the largest sedimentary lithium deposits in the United States. The Company has utilized its patent-pending process for chloride leaching combined with direct lithium extraction to make high purity lithium carbonate product samples from Angel Island lithium-bearing claystone on-site at its Pilot Plant in Amargosa Valley, Nevada.

Angel Island is one of the few advanced lithium projects in development in the United States to provide an end-to-end process to produce battery quality lithium carbonate for the growing electric vehicle and battery storage market. Angel Island is currently in the permitting stage for a three-phase feasibility-level production plan expected to yield an average of 34,000 tonnes per year of lithium carbonate over a 40-year mine-life.

Century Lithium trades on both the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol “LCE” and the OTCQX under the symbol “CYDVF”; and on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange under the symbol “C1Z”. To learn more, please visit: centurylithium.com 

ON BEHALF OF CENTURY LITHIUM CORP.
WILLIAM WILLOUGHBY, PhD., PE
President & Chief Executive Officer

For further information, please contact:
Spiros Cacos | Vice President, Investor Relations
Direct: +1 604 764 1851
Toll Free: 1 800 567 8181
scacos@centurylithium.com
centurylithium.com

Andrew Valler | Head of Communications
Direct: +61 437 829 211
andrew.valler@orica.com  
orica.com

NEITHER THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THE CONTENT OF THIS NEWS RELEASE.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This release contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. In certain cases, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as “plans”, “expects” or “does not anticipate”, or “believes”, or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “might” or “will be taken”, “occur” or “be achieved” and similar expressions suggesting future outcomes or statements regarding an outlook.

Forward-looking statements relate to any matters that are not historical facts and statements of our beliefs, intentions and expectations about developments, results and events which will or may occur in the future, without limitation, statements with respect to the potential development and value of the Project and benefits associated therewith, statements with respect to the expected project economics for the Project, such as estimates of life of mine, lithium prices, production and recoveries, capital and operating costs, IRR, NPV and cash flows, any projections outlined in the Feasibility Study in respect of the Project, the permitting status of the Project and the Company’s future development plans.

These and other forward-looking statements and information are subject to various known and unknown risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the ability of the Company to control or predict, that may cause their actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied thereby, and are developed based on assumptions about such risks, uncertainties and other factors set out herein. These risks include those described under the heading “Risk Factors” in the Company’s most recent annual information form and its other public filings, copies of which can be under the Company’s profile at www.sedarplus.com. The Company expressly disclaims any obligation to update-forward-looking information except as required by applicable law. No forward-looking statement can be guaranteed and actual future results may vary materially. Accordingly, readers are advised not to place reliance on forward-looking statements or information. Furthermore, Mineral Resources that are not Mineral Reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability.

Release – Bitcoin Depot Reports Strong Preliminary Fourth Quarter 2024 Results

Posted on by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

Research News and Market Data on BTM

January 21, 2025 8:00 AM EST Download as PDF

Q4 2024 Results Signal Strength and Momentum for 2025

ATLANTA, Jan. 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitcoin Depot Inc. (“Bitcoin Depot” or the “Company”), a U.S.-based Bitcoin ATM operator and leading fintech company, today announced certain preliminary financial results for the fourth quarter ended December 31, 2024.

The Company expects revenue to range between $135 million and $137 million, compared to $135.3 million reported in the third quarter of 2024 and $148.4 million reported in the fourth quarter of 2023. The Company also expects adjusted EBITDA to range between $11 million and $13 million, an increase of 22% to 44% compared to the $9.0 million reported in the fourth quarter of 2023 and an increase of 19% to 41% compared to the $9.2 million reported in the third quarter of 2024.

“We ended 2024 on a strong note, with an anticipated uptick in sequential revenue and significant improvements in adjusted EBITDA on both a sequential and year-over-year basis,” said Brandon Mintz, CEO and Founder of Bitcoin Depot. “This performance reflects the expansion of our BTM network and our progress in improving kiosk profitability. The strength of our fourth quarter positions us well for a rebound in 2025, supported by the overall health of our business and a more favorable cryptocurrency market environment.”

The financial results for the fourth quarter ended December 31, 2024, included in this release are preliminary, have not been reviewed or audited, are based upon the Company’s estimates, and were prepared prior to the completion of the company’s financial statement close process. The preliminary financial results should not be viewed as a substitute for the Company’s full fourth quarter results and do not present all information necessary for an understanding of the Company’s financial performance. Accordingly, undue reliance should not be placed on this preliminary data. Bitcoin Depot plans to release its fully audited fourth-quarter and full-year 2024 financial results in March.

About Bitcoin Depot

Bitcoin Depot Inc. (Nasdaq: BTM) was founded in 2016 with the mission to connect those who prefer to use cash to the broader, digital financial system. Bitcoin Depot provides its users with simple, efficient and intuitive means of converting cash into Bitcoin, which users can deploy in the payments, spending and investing space. Users can convert cash to bitcoin at Bitcoin Depot kiosks in 48 states and at thousands of name-brand retail locations in 29 states through its BDCheckout product. The Company has the largest market share in North America with approximately 8,400 kiosk locations as of December 31, 2024. Learn more at www.bitcoindepot.com. 

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

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

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

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

Use of non-GAAP Financial Measures

This press release includes preliminary Adjusted EBITDA results for the fourth quarter ended December 31, 2025. Adjusted EBITDA is a non-GAAP. Bitcoin Depot defines Adjusted EBITDA as net income before interest expense, income tax expense, depreciation and amortization, non-recurring expenses, share-based compensation, expenses related to the PIPE financing and miscellaneous cost adjustments. Such items are excluded from Adjusted EBITDA because these items are non-cash in nature, or because the amount and timing of these items is unpredictable, not driven by core results of operations and renders comparisons with prior periods and competitors less meaningful. Bitcoin Depot believes Adjusted EBITDA provides useful information to investors and others in understanding and evaluating Bitcoin Depot’s results of operations, as well as provides a useful measure for period-to-period comparisons of Bitcoin Depot’s business performance. Adjusted EBITDA is a key measurements used internally by management to make operating decisions, including those related to operating expenses, evaluate performance and perform strategic and financial planning. However, you should be aware that Adjusted EBITDA may exclude items that are significant in understanding and assessing Bitcoin Depot’s financial results, and further, that Bitcoin Depot may incur future expenses similar to those excluded when calculating this measures. Bitcoin Depot primarily relies on GAAP results and relies on Adjusted EBITDA and other non-GAAP measures on a supplemental basis. No such measure should be considered in isolation from, or as an alternative to, net income, cash flows from operations or other measures of profitability, liquidity or performance under GAAP and may not be indicative of Bitcoin Depot’s historical or future operating results. Bitcoin Depot’s computation of Adjusted EBITDA may not be comparable to other similarly titled measures computed by other companies because not all companies calculate such measures in the same fashion. As such, undue reliance should not be placed on such measures. Due to some of the information excluded from Adjusted EBITDA calculation being non-ascertainable or non-accessible until the financial close is complete, Bitcoin Depot is unable to quantify certain amounts that would be required to be included in the most directly comparable GAAP financial measures without unreasonable effort. Consequently, no disclosure of estimated comparable GAAP measures is included and no reconciliation of the non-GAAP financial measures is included.

Contacts:

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

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

Primary Logo

Source: Bitcoin Depot Inc.

Released January 21, 2025

Release – Alliance Resource Partners, L.P. Announces Fourth Quarter 2024 Earnings Conference Call

Posted on by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

Research News and Market Data on ARLP

January 20, 2025

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TULSA, Okla.–(BUSINESS WIRE)– Alliance Resource Partners, L.P. (NASDAQ: ARLP) will report its fourth quarter 2024 financial results before the market opens on Monday, February 3, 2025. Alliance management will discuss these results during a conference call beginning at 10:00 a.m. Eastern that same day.

To participate in the conference call, dial U.S. Toll Free (877) 407-0784 and request to be connected to the Alliance Resource Partners, L.P. earnings conference call. International callers should dial (201) 689-8560 and request to be connected to the same call. Investors may also listen to the call via the “Investors” section of ARLP’s website at www.arlp.com.

An audio replay of the conference call will be available for approximately one week. To access the audio replay, dial U.S. Toll Free (844) 512-2921; International Toll (412) 317-6671 and request to be connected to replay using access code 13750955.

About Alliance Resource Partners, L.P.

ARLP is a diversified energy company that is currently the largest coal producer in the eastern United States, supplying reliable, affordable energy domestically and internationally to major utilities, metallurgical and industrial users. ARLP also generates operating and royalty income from mineral interests it owns in strategic coal and oil & gas producing regions in the United States. In addition, ARLP is evolving and positioning itself as a reliable energy partner for the future by pursuing opportunities that support the advancement of energy and related infrastructure.

News, unit prices and additional information about ARLP, including filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), are available at www.arlp.com. For more information, contact the investor relations department of ARLP at (918) 295-7673 or via e-mail at investorrelations@arlp.com.

Cary P. Marshall
Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
(918) 295-7673
investorrelations@arlp.com

Source: Alliance Resource Partners, L.P.

GeoVax Labs (GOVX) – Gedeptin To Begin Phase 2 Clinical Trial

Posted on by cpereira@noblefcm.com


Tuesday, January 21, 2025

GeoVax Labs, Inc. is a clinical-stage biotechnology company developing novel therapies and vaccines for solid tumor cancers and many of the world’s most threatening infectious diseases. The company’s lead program in oncology is a novel oncolytic solid tumor gene-directed therapy, Gedeptin®, presently in a multicenter Phase 1/2 clinical trial for advanced head and neck cancers. GeoVax’s lead infectious disease candidate is GEO-CM04S1, a next-generation COVID-19 vaccine targeting high-risk immunocompromised patient populations. Currently in three Phase 2 clinical trials, GEO-CM04S1 is being evaluated as a primary vaccine for immunocompromised patients such as those suffering from hematologic cancers and other patient populations for whom the current authorized COVID-19 vaccines are insufficient, and as a booster vaccine in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). In addition, GEO-CM04S1 is in a Phase 2 clinical trial evaluating the vaccine as a more robust, durable COVID-19 booster among healthy patients who previously received the mRNA vaccines. GeoVax has a leadership team who have driven significant value creation across multiple life science companies over the past several decades.

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.

GeoVax Starts The Year By Announcing Phase 2 Trial For Gedeptin. GeoVax has announced that a Phase 2 trial for Gedeptin, its gene therapy for delivering cytotoxic cancer drugs, is planned to start in 1H25. As we expected, the trial will test Gedeptin with a checkpoint inhibitor in patients with recurrent squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN).

Gedeptin Delivers A Gene To Activate The Cancer Drug In The Tumor. Gedeptin is based on the Gene-Directed Enzyme Prodrug Therapy (GDEPT) technology platform. It uses an adenovirus vector to deliver the E. coli PNP gene to cancer cells. Once inside the cells, the gene produces an enzyme that converts an inactive prodrug (fludarabine) into an active cytotoxic drug. This increases the drug’s potency inside the cancer cells while avoiding healthy tissue. Gedeptin has completed Phase 1/2 trials in advanced head and neck cancer and has been granted Orphan Drug Designation for oral and pharyngeal cancers.


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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. 

Euroseas (ESEA) – Vessel Sale Adds a New Wrinkle to the Proposed Euroholdings Ltd. Spin-Off

Posted on by cpereira@noblefcm.com


Tuesday, January 21, 2025

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.

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

Hans Baldau, Research Associate, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

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

Sale of the M/V Diamantis P. A wholly owned subsidiary of Euroseas sold the M/V Diamantis P for ~$13.2 million and delivered the vessel to its new owners on January 15. Recall that the Diamantis P is a feeder containership that was built in 1998. The transaction is expected to result in a gain on sale of ~$10.2 million. 

Spin-off transaction. Recall that Euroseas announced its intention to spin off three of its subsidiaries, two owning the M/V Aegean Express and M/V Joanna, and one that owned the M/V Diamantis P (prior to its sale) into Euroholdings Ltd. In exchange, Euroseas will receive 100% of the shares of Euroholdings Ltd., which will then be distributed to its shareholders (please refer to our note dated January 3 for transaction details).


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 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. 

Apple Faces Challenges Amid Downgrades: Weak iPhone Sales and AI Outlook Impact Stock

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com
Key Points:
– Jefferies cut Apple to “Underperform” with a price target of $200.75, while Loop Capital downgraded it to “Hold” at $230.
– Declining sales in China and a 1% dip in market share are major concerns for Apple’s flagship product.
– Apple’s AI initiatives, including Apple Intelligence, have not generated the anticipated sales supercycle, dampening investor enthusiasm.

Apple Inc. (AAPL) is grappling with significant challenges as analysts issue downgrades to its stock, citing weaker-than-expected iPhone sales and underwhelming performance in its artificial intelligence (AI) initiatives. The stock fell 3.82% on Tuesday following these reports, adding to mounting concerns about the tech giant’s ability to sustain its growth trajectory in an increasingly competitive market.

Jefferies analyst Edison Lee downgraded Apple to “Underperform” and slashed the price target to $200.75, a 13% reduction. Meanwhile, Loop Capital downgraded the stock from “Buy” to “Hold” and revised its target to $230, down from $275. Both firms point to headwinds in Apple’s core iPhone business and tepid consumer interest in AI-powered products as key factors behind their decisions.

The iPhone, which accounts for over half of Apple’s total revenue, is facing significant challenges. According to Jefferies, iPhone sales in China dropped by 15% to 20% year over year. This decline reflects both increased competition from local players like Huawei and Xiaomi and cautious consumer spending amid a slower Chinese economic recovery.

China has long been a critical market for Apple, contributing $66.9 billion in revenue in 2024, despite an 8% decline compared to the previous year. However, the company’s difficulties in this region are not new; Apple has struggled with currency fluctuations and declining sales for the past two years.

Globally, Apple’s iPhone market share fell by roughly 1% in Q4, landing at 23%, even as overall smartphone shipments rose by 3%. These numbers, provided by Canalys and IDC, underscore the growing competition Apple faces as it tries to maintain dominance in a crowded market.

Apple’s push into AI has also been a point of contention among analysts. The company debuted its AI platform, Apple Intelligence, in October 2024, marketing it as a transformative tool for its flagship devices. However, the staggered rollout has led to confusion among consumers, with many unaware of the platform’s full capabilities.

Jefferies had predicted that Apple Intelligence would drive a “sales supercycle,” but early indications suggest that adoption has been slow. This is a stark contrast to the success of other tech giants like Alphabet and Meta, whose innovative AI initiatives have helped drive their stock prices up 30% and 36%, respectively, over the past year.

The slow uptake of AI-powered devices further complicates Apple’s outlook, as the company seeks to diversify its revenue streams beyond the iPhone. While Apple’s Services segment remains a bright spot, generating $96.1 billion in 2024, the company will need to demonstrate sustained growth in other areas to regain investor confidence.

Despite these challenges, Apple has several opportunities to stabilize its position. The upcoming launch of a new iPhone SE, entry-level iPads, and MacBook Airs may provide a much-needed boost in mid-range and budget segments. Additionally, Apple’s brand loyalty and reputation for innovation could help it weather short-term setbacks.

The company is set to report its first-quarter earnings on January 30. Analysts and investors will be watching closely to see if Apple can reverse its recent trends and reestablish itself as a leader in both hardware and emerging technologies like AI.

Release – MustGrow Announces Closing of Private Placement of Units for $2,585,000

Posted on by dburczyk@noblecapitalmarkets.com

Research News and Market Data on MGROF

SASKATOON, Saskatchewan, Canada, January 16, 2025 – MustGrow Biologics Corp. (TSXV:MGRO) (OTC:MGROF) (FRA:0C0) (the “Company” or “MustGrow“) is pleased to announce the closing of the previously announced non-brokered private placement of units (each, a “Unit“) at a price per Unit of $1,000 for aggregate gross proceeds to the Company of $2,585,000 (the “Private Placement“) on January 16, 2025 (the “Closing Date“).

Each Unit is comprised of: (i) $1,000 principal amount of unsecured convertible debentures (the “Debentures“); and (ii) 666 common share purchase warrants (the “Unit Warrants“). Each Debenture may, at the option of the holder: (i) be converted into common shares in the capital of the Company (the “Common Shares“) at price of $1.50 per Common Share (the “Principal Conversion Price“) at any time; or (ii) paid in cash 60 months following the Closing Date (subject to certain acceleration rights). Each Unit Warrant is exercisable by the holder thereof to acquire one Common Share at a price of $1.90 per Common Share for a period of 60 months following the Closing Date. The Debentures accrue interest at a rate of 8% per annum, payable semi-annually in cash.

If, at any time following the date that is 12 months from the Closing Date, the daily volume weighted average trading price of the Common Shares on the TSX Venture Exchange (the “TSXV“) is greater than $3.00 for the preceding 30 consecutive trading days, the Company shall have the option to immediately accelerate the conversion of the Debentures at the Principal Conversion Price.

In connection with the Private Placement, certain finders received an aggregate cash fee of $67,200. In addition, the Company issued to certain finders an aggregate of 44,800 non-transferable finder’s warrants (the “Finder Warrants“). Each Finder Warrant will entitle the holder thereof to purchase one Common Share at an exercise price of $1.90 per Common Share for a period of 24 months following the Closing Date.

The Company intends to use the proceeds from the Private Placement for inventory production for TerraSanteTM, working capital and general corporate purposes.

The Debentures, the Unit Warrants, the Finder Warrants, and any underlying Common Shares issued pursuant to those securities are subject to a four month plus one day hold period from the Closing Date. The Private Placement remains subject to final approval of the TSX Venture Exchange (the “TSXV“).

Certain insiders of the Company have subscribed for 300 Units under the Private Placement for aggregate gross proceeds of $300,000. Each subscription by an “insider” is considered to be a “related party transaction” for purposes of Multilateral Instrument 61-101 – Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions (“MI 61-101“). The Company did not file a material change report more than 21 days before the Closing Date as the details of the Private Placement and the participation therein by each “related party” of the Company were not settled until shortly prior to the closing of the Private Placement, and the Company wished to close the Private Placement on an expedited basis for sound business reasons. The Company is relying on exemptions from the formal valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements available under MI 61-101. The Company is exempt from the formal valuation requirement in section 5.4 of MI 61-101 in reliance on section 5.5(a) of MI 61-101 as the fair market value of the transaction, insofar as it involves interested parties, is not more than the 25% of the Company’s market capitalization. Additionally, the Company is exempt from minority shareholder approval requirement in section 5.6 of MI 61-101 in reliance on section 5.7(b) of MI 61-101 as the fair market value of the transaction, insofar as it involves interested parties, is not more than the 25% of the Company’s market capitalization.

This press release does not constitute, and shall not be construed as, an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any Units within the United States.

About MustGrow

MustGrow Biologics Corp. is a fully-integrated provider of innovative biological and regenerative agriculture solutions designed to support sustainable farming. The Company’s proprietary and third-party product lines offer eco-friendly alternatives to restricted or banned synthetic chemicals and fertilizers. In North America, MustGrow offers a portfolio of third-party crop nutrition solutions, including micronutrients, nitrogen stabilizers, biostimulants, and foliar products. These products are synergistically distributed alongside MustGrow’s wholly-owned proprietary products and technologies that are derived from mustard and developed into organic biocontrol and biofertility products to help replace banned or restricted synthetic chemicals and fertilizers. Outside of North America, MustGrow is focused on collaborating with agriculture companies, such as Bayer AG in Europe, the Middle East and Africa, to commercialize MustGrow’s wholly-owned proprietary products and technologies. The Company is dedicated to driving shareholder value through on the commercialization and expansion of its intellectual property portfolio of approximately 112 patents that are currently issued and pending, and the sales and distribution of its proprietary and third-party product lines through NexusBioAg. MustGrow is a public traded company (TSXV-MGRO) and has approximately 51.6 million common shares issued and outstanding and 59.2 million shares fully diluted. For further details, please visit www.mustgrow.ca.

Contact Information

Corey Giasson
Director & CEO
Phone: +1-306-668-2652
info@mustgrow.ca

MustGrow Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements included in this news release constitute “forward-looking statements” which involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may affect the results, performance or achievements of MustGrow.

Generally, forward-looking information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as “plans”, “expects”, “is expected”, “budget”, “estimates”, “intends”, “anticipates” or “does not anticipate”, or “believes”, or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “might”, “occur” or “be achieved”. Examples of forward-looking statements in this news release include, among others, statements MustGrow makes regarding: the receipt of final approval of the TSXV; and the use of proceeds from the Private Placement. Forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that may cause the actual results of MustGrow to differ materially from those discussed in such forward-looking statements, and even if such actual results are realized or substantially realized, there can be no assurance that they will have the expected consequences to, or effects on, MustGrow. Important factors that could cause MustGrow’s actual results and financial condition to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements include: the receipt of final approval by the TSXV and those risks described in more detail in MustGrow’s Annual Information Form for the year ended December 31, 2023 and other continuous disclosure documents filed by MustGrow with the applicable securities regulatory authorities which are available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. Readers are referred to such documents for more detailed information about MustGrow, which is subject to the qualifications, assumptions and notes set forth therein.

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Supreme Court Upholds TikTok Ban Law, Putting App’s Future in Trump’s Hands

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

In a landmark decision, the Supreme Court has upheld a law that would effectively ban TikTok in the United States by January 19 unless the social media platform is sold to an owner not controlled by a foreign adversary. The ruling places the fate of the app, used by 170 million Americans, in the hands of President-elect Donald Trump, who takes office on January 20.

The Court sided with the government’s position that ByteDance’s ties to China pose national security concerns, rejecting TikTok’s First Amendment arguments. While acknowledging the platform’s significance, the Court emphasized Congress’s authority to address national security threats. “There is no doubt that, for more than 170 million Americans, TikTok offers a distinctive and expansive outlet for expression, means of engagement, and source of community,” the Court stated, but concluded that the security concerns outweighed these considerations.

Trump, who previously promised to “save TikTok,” now holds significant influence over the app’s future. “It ultimately goes up to me, so you’re going to see what I’m going to do,” Trump told CNN following the Court’s decision. He has reportedly discussed the matter with Chinese President Xi Jinping and is considering various options, including an executive order that would delay the ban’s enforcement by 60 to 90 days.

The implementation of the ban would have far-reaching consequences for the tech industry. Major companies like Apple and Google would be prohibited from offering TikTok in their app stores, while cloud providers such as Microsoft, Amazon, and Oracle would be barred from hosting the service. Violations could result in penalties of up to $5,000 for each instance of US user access.

Several potential solutions have emerged as stakeholders scramble to prevent a shutdown. Chinese officials have reportedly discussed selling TikTok’s US operations to Elon Musk, owner of X, although their preference is to maintain ByteDance’s ownership. Additionally, a consortium led by billionaire Frank McCourt Jr. and including “Shark Tank” star Kevin O’Leary has expressed interest in acquiring the platform for up to $20 billion. “There’s a deal to be made here so that US TikTok can stay in business,” McCourt stated recently.

The ruling’s impact extends beyond TikTok itself, potentially reshaping the competitive landscape of social media. Industry analysts predict significant benefits for established platforms if TikTok exits the US market. William Blair research analyst Ralph Schackart estimates that Meta’s Instagram could capture 60-70% of TikTok’s advertising revenue, noting that Instagram “monetizes at around 3x the rate of TikTok.” Similarly, Morgan Stanley projects that YouTube’s Shorts platform could gain $400-750 million in ad revenue for every 10% of former TikTok user time it captures.

As the situation develops, legislative solutions are also being explored. Senator Ed Markey has introduced a bill that would extend the divestiture deadline by 270 days, potentially providing crucial additional time for negotiations. Trump’s incoming administration has multiple options, including pushing Congress to overturn the law, encouraging an extension of the deadline, or facilitating a sale of the US operations.

As the January 19 deadline approaches, the tech industry, millions of users, and the advertising market await clarity on whether Trump’s administration will enforce the ban, negotiate a sale, or find another solution to keep the popular platform operating in the United States. The outcome of this high-stakes situation will likely set important precedents for foreign-owned technology companies operating in the US market.