Vancouver, British Columbia–(Newsfile Corp. – May 22, 2025) – Hemisphere Energy Corporation (TSXV: HME) (OTCQX: HMENF) (“Hemisphere” or the “Company”) provides its financial and operating results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2025, declares a quarterly dividend payment to shareholders, renews credit facility, and provides operations update.
Q1 2025 Highlights
Attained record quarterly production of 3,833 boe/d (99% heavy oil), a 21% increase over the same period of last year.
Generated $27.3 million in revenue, a 30% increase over the first quarter of 2024.
Achieved total operating and transportation costs of $14.63/boe.
Delivered an operating netback1 of $17.0 million, or $49.27/boe.
Realized quarterly adjusted funds flow from operations (“AFF”)1 of $12.7 million, or $36.83/boe, a 26% increase over the first quarter of 2024.
Generated free funds flow1 of $11.5 million, or $0.12 per share.
Distributed $2.4 million, or $0.025 per share, in dividends to shareholders during the quarter.
Purchased and cancelled 709,700 shares for $1.3 million under the Company’s Normal Course Issuer Bid (“NCIB”).
Exited the first quarter with positive working capital1 of $14.1 million, compared to $4.2 million at the end of March 2024.
(1) Operating netback, adjusted funds flow from operations (AFF), free funds flow, capital expenditure, and working capital are non-IFRS measures, or when expressed on a per share or boe basis, non-IFRS ratio, that do not have any standardized meaning under IFRS and therefore may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other entities. Non-IFRS financial measures and ratios are not standardized financial measures under IFRS and may not be comparable to similar financial measures disclosed by other issuers. Refer to the section “Non-IFRS and Other Specified Financial Measures”.
Selected financial and operational highlights should be read in conjunction with Hemisphere’s unaudited condensed interim consolidated financial statements and related notes, and the Management’s Discussion and Analysis for the three months ended March 31, 2025 which are available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and on Hemisphere’s website at www.hemisphereenergy.ca. All amounts are expressed in Canadian dollars unless otherwise noted.
Quarterly Dividend
Hemisphere is pleased to announce that its Board of Directors has approved a quarterly cash dividend of $0.025 per common share in accordance with the Company’s dividend policy. The dividend will be paid on June 30, 2025 to shareholders of record as of the close of business on June 19, 2025. The dividend is designated as an eligible dividend for income tax purposes.
Including Hemisphere’s special dividend of $0.03 per common share paid in April and base quarterly dividends of $0.025 per common share in February and June, Hemisphere will have paid its shareholders $0.08 per common share in dividends during the first half of 2025.
Credit Facility
The Company has completed its annual bank review and renewed its $35.0 million two-year extendible credit facility with the same key terms, and the next annual review date set for May 31, 2026.
Operations Update
With the majority of Hemisphere’s 2025 capital spending scheduled for the latter half of the year, the Company generated $11.5 million in free funds flow during the first quarter. Current second quarter production of approximately 3,800 boe/d (99% heavy oil, field estimates between April 1 – May 15, 2025) is consistent with that of the first quarter, and represents an increase of 13% over fourth quarter production of 3,359 boe/d (99% heavy oil), due both to downtime in November and continued injection support from Hemisphere’s polymer floods at its Atlee Buffalo projects in southeast Alberta.
At Hemisphere’s Marsden pilot polymer flood project, injection continues to repressure the reservoir. Management anticipates that polymer response could take until late 2025, at which time the Company will determine economics of further development.
Management continues to closely monitor the volatility of the oil market and will adjust capital spending accordingly. With over $14 million in working capital and an undrawn credit line, Hemisphere will prioritize shareholder returns, share buybacks, and potential acquisition activity over accelerated capital spending.
Annual General and Special Meeting of Shareholders
Hemisphere’s Annual General and Special Meeting of Shareholders will be held at 10:00 am (Pacific Daylight Time) on June 2, 2025 in the Walker Room of the Terminal City Club located at 837 West Hastings Street, Vancouver, British Columbia.
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 enhanced oil recovery 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
Closes Initial $20 Million Tranche of Series A Investment and Separation of Fuels
VIRGINIA CITY, NEVADA, MAY 22, 2025 – Comstock Inc. (NYSE American: LODE) (“Comstock” and the “Company”) today announced that its executive chairman and chief executive officer, Corrado De Gasperis, issued the following letter to shareholders announcing major transformative milestones, including the separation of Comstock Fuels.
Dear Shareholders:
On behalf of our Board of Directors, Executive Officers, and the entire Comstock team, thank you for your continued support of our goals and bold strategies for achieving systemic decarbonization, establishing technological leadership in the massive global renewable fuels and renewable metals markets and positioning great value for all of our shareholders.
I am genuinely thrilled to announce the completion of the successful separation of our renewable fuels segment into a new independent entity, Bioleum Corporation (“Bioleum”), and its high-value capitalization, through the closing on the first $20 million in direct Series A equity investment. This investment is the first of $50 million planned this year.
This achievement fulfills the first phase of the plans we outlined earlier this year and positions us with two high-growth companies – one focused on renewable metals and mining here in Nevada, and the other on renewable fuels headquartered in Oklahoma – enabling two extremely different business and capital profiles and providing each the platform to thrive in their own markets. In doing so, we are unleashing unprecedented opportunities for growth and value creation.
Bioleum Separation Completed: A Bold New Chapter
We have officially separated and contributed the assets that formerly comprised Comstock’s fuels segment into Bioleum, a newly formed company dedicated to accelerating and maximizing the production and use of lignocellulosic biomass – or BioleumTM – derived fuels and attracting the necessary capitalization to do so. Bioleum’s formation marks the next chapter in this rapid evolution – one where our renewable fuels platform can accelerate under its own banner with singular focus and clarity with the ultimate objective of also becoming a publicly traded company.
Comstock now owns $65 million of the preferred stock in Bioleum, convertible into 32.5 million common shares, nearly the exact number of total outstanding shares of LODE today. This represents the substantial majority of Bioleum, positioning an exceptional value for our shareholders today and preserving our ability to accelerate the growth of that value and the delivery of that value directly to our shareholders, ultimately through a future public offering and beyond.
This transaction was structured to give Bioleum operational independence, with direct governance from Comstock and the strategic Series A investors, while maintaining and ensuring exceptional alignment with Comstock’s interests. Bioleum now has its own dedicated leadership and resources: Kevin Kreisler has been appointed Chief Executive Officer of Bioleum, and – in addition to my continuing role as Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Comstock, I will also serve as Bioleum’s Executive Chairman and Chief Financial Officer to both guide and support the new enterprise. I will be the only professional employed directly by both companies. With an independent board and governance, including representatives of the Series A investors and independent board members of Comstock, Bioleum can effectively and efficiently accelerate its mission and critical financing strategy. We believe that this structure, combined with Comstock’s ongoing governance and preferred equity interest, strikes the ideal balance to maximize Bioleum’s potential and unlock the full value of its clean energy portfolio for all of our shareholders.
Critically, the separation and its aligned structure, satisfies key conditions of large, sophisticated investors for new investment in Bioleum. Concurrently with the separation, Bioleum has closed an initial $20 million tranche of its Series A preferred stock financing. This infusion of growth capital validates Bioleum’s strategy and provides the resources to accelerate its next phase of development. These funds will support Bioleum’s continuing development as it completes engineering, financing, and construction of its first planned 400,000 barrel per year commercial demonstration facility in Oklahoma. In short, Bioleum is now equipped, capitalized, and structured to move forward at full speed. This capital also immediately relieves Comstock of a substantial majority of its liquidity and capital resource demands and constraints.
Bioleum’s Path to Full Commercialization
The initial objectives are clear. Bioleum will continue to focus on securing all approvals and agreements, including with top-tier Engineering, Procurement and Construction (“EPC”) and other strategic relationships while engineering is completed to construct its flagship 400,000 barrel per year refinery in Oklahoma. This first facility will deliver over $30 million in annual operating income once up and running, showcasing its commercial viability. Bioleum has already advanced site selection and engineering, and is working on project-level financing, permitting, regulatory approvals, and all other site agreements, fueled by the Series A capital.
Bioleum’s proprietary refining platform can convert underutilized woody biomass into a low-carbon, direct substitute for gasoline, diesel, and sustainable aviation fuel, effectively transforming waste biomass into high-value fuels with a carbon intensity as low as 15. In essence, we have uncovered a new kind of “oil well” – one that never runs dry because it is fed by renewable resources. As we often say, imagine an oil well that never stops producing – that is what Bioleum delivers. With market-leading yields of up to 140 gallons of fuel per ton of feedstock (on a gasoline gallon equivalent basis) and a platform designed to scale 10x beyond the first facility, Bioleum is poised to enlist major oil companies in accelerating and maximizing the production and use of Bioleum derived fuels.
Comstock Metals: Strength in Sustainable Innovation
While Bioleum separates, our Metals business will continue to grow stronger than ever. We are proud to report that Comstock Metals revenues are growing rapidly and achieving the highest levels of industry recognition. Recently, Comstock Metals became the first company in North America to earn the stringent R2v3 and RIOS certifications for zero-waste solar panel recycling. This groundbreaking certification validates that our recycling facility and processes meet the highest global standards for safety, environmental stewardship, and total waste elimination. In fact, under the R2v3/RIOS standard (including the specialized Appendix G), we demonstrated a 100% landfill-free recycling process – every component of an end-of-life solar panel (glass, aluminum, semiconductor fines, and other metals) is fully reclaimed and repurposed into new raw materials. Nothing goes to waste. This achievement is an extraordinary testament to our team’s innovation and diligence. It proves that our proprietary thermal recycling technology can deliver commodity-grade outputs from solar trash, with all parts of the panel fully recycled into valuable products.
Importantly, this certification also provides assurance to our customers, partners, and regulators that Comstock Metals’ operations meet the absolute highest bar for responsible recycling, without any reliance on government incentives. We have essentially built a new kind of mine above ground – one that harvests critical metals from retired solar panels instead of digging ore from the earth. As I’ve described before, it’s like a “world-class silver mine using solar panel waste as ore” that never depletes and just keeps on producing. With this validation in hand, Comstock Metals is aggressively scaling up its services to meet surging demand. We have been ramping up our recycling throughput (a fourfold increase year-over-year in Q1) and expanding our partnerships, including world-class customers and a master services agreement with RWE Clean Energy all while maintaining our zero-landfill promise. We are securing expanded and new permits and are preparing to expand to industry-scale operations at our Nevada facility to process dramatically larger volumes of photovoltaic waste. In short, Comstock Metals is now a proven leader in sustainable metal recycling, with a robust pipeline of business and technology that positions us for exponential growth. We could not be prouder of our teams.
Strategic Rationale: Capital Efficiency, Risk Management, and Value Creation
I want to clearly articulate our thinking behind separating the Bioleum and Comstock entities at this time. This transaction was driven by opportunity – and by necessity. Both our Fuels and Metals businesses have matured to a point where they can attract significant investment and growth on their own. However, they each have very different capital needs, risk profiles, and operational focuses. By separating them, we enable each company to pursue tailored funding and growth strategies with maximum efficiency. Bioleum can now raise capital (such as the Series A financing) directly into its projects and technology, without competing with or being bottlenecked by Comstock’s other needs. At the same time, Comstock Metals can seek its own strategic partnerships and financing faster and more efficiently (for new industry scale recycling facilities, for example) without having to dilute or divert resources to the Fuels business. This clear management, capital and growth focus in each company means more efficient use of funds and faster development cycles for both.
Separation also improves risk management. Renewable fuels and recyclable metals are adjacent in our mission, but they are fundamentally different businesses. Each business faces unique technical and market risks. By structurally isolating them, we ensure that challenges in one domain will not hinder the progress of the other. Investors and partners can now engage with a pure-play renewable metals producer or a pure-play renewable fuels developer, without ambiguity. This clarity reduces the perceived risk for stakeholders and allows each company to be evaluated on its own merits. Moreover, it grants each management team the autonomy to focus exclusively on its core mission – whether that is scaling up recycling operations or building biorefineries – thus sharpening execution and accountability.
Finally, and most importantly, this separation is about unlocking the full value and impact of the businesses we have built. We firmly believe that the combined value of Comstock and Bioleum as separate entities will exponentially exceed what might have been reflected as a single conglomerate. The market can now properly value our Metals business as the first mover in zero-waste solar recycling, and value Bioleum as a high-growth renewable fuels innovator, without one overshadowing the other. Early evidence of this value creation is clear: the separation and Bioleum’s financing were completed at an implied valuation that significantly uplifts the recognized value of our Fuels segment. Comstock retains a substantial majority equity position in Bioleum, so our shareholders keep substantial upside in Bioleum’s future success, while better protecting against downside risks and gaining all the benefits of a more focused parent company. We expect that as Bioleum reaches its milestones and as Comstock Metals rapidly expands, the sum-of-parts value to our shareholders will deliver dramatic and exponential returns.
Moving Forward
I want to emphasize the confidence I have in our bold path forward. We have spent the last four years investing in new technologies, overcoming challenges, and relentlessly driving toward commercialization of two revolutionary platforms. That effort has now culminated in a historic achievement: we launched Bioleum as an independent company and fortified Comstock Metals as a standalone powerhouse. We are now operating with a sharpened focus in each business. Our vision of enabling energy independence and a circular, decarbonized economy is not just alive – it’s accelerating.
Comstock emerges from this separation as a more streamlined enterprise laser-focused on renewable metals, with a healthy balance sheet and a stake in one of the most promising renewable fuel ventures in the world. Bioleum, for its part, is charging ahead to reinvent how we produce fuels, armed with world-class technology, a passionate team of industry veterans, and the funding to realize its plans. Together, though operating separately, Comstock and Bioleum are advancing complementary missions that address two of the world’s most pressing needs: clean energy and resource sustainability. We are leading – setting new standards, forging new partnerships, and capturing new markets.
I have never been more confident in our strategy or more excited looking to the future. We will continue executing with the same determination and ingenuity that brought us to this point. We look forward to creating extraordinary value together as we drive a true revolution in renewable fuels and sustainable materials.
Key Highlights
Completed Separation of Comstock Fuels into Bioleum – Successfully separated our renewable fuels business into Bioleum Corporation, an independent entity, satisfying all conditions for the capital needs of the business. Comstock retains a substantial majority in Bioleum to participate in its tremendous growth potential.
Comstock’s Stake – $65M Preferred Equity – Comstock received $65 million in preferred equity in Bioleum, convertible into 32.5 million common shares, representing a well-protected and substantial majority ownership of Bioleum. This ensures Comstock shareholders benefit from Bioleum’s future success.
Bioleum Funded and Positioned for IPO – Bioleum closed an initial $20 million Series A financing concurrent with the separation. Proceeds will fund critical growth milestones. Bioleum plans an IPO upon completing the construction of its first 400,000 barrel per year refinery and meeting key commercialization milestones.
Comstock Metals’ Extraordinary First Mover Advantage – Comstock Metals recycling business is thriving. Comstock Metals achieved the first R2v3/RIOS certification in North America for 100% zero-waste solar panel recycling, validating our world-class, zero-landfill process. Comstock Metals is scaling up with new permits, major customers, and expanding revenues, fulfilling the vision of a “solar waste silver mine” that never depletes.
Strategic Benefits of Separation – The separation enhances capital efficiency (each company can raise and allocate capital optimally), improves risk management (distinct businesses are insulated from each other’s risks), and unlocks value (investors can properly value each pure-play business, driving greater aggregate shareholder value). We expect this separation to accelerate growth and maximize shareholder returns for both companies.
I appreciate everyone’s dedication and support in helping us get to this launching point. I am very much looking forward to discussing these achievements, our remarkable progress, and next steps with you during our 2025 Annual Meeting.
Kindest regards,
Corrado De Gasperis Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Comstock Inc.
Additional information on the Bioleum transactions will be provided in Comstock’s planned Current Report on Form 8-K to be filed online on May 23, 2025.
About Bioleum Corporation
Bioleum Corporation (“Bioleum”) is setting a new standard in oil by developing and commercializing breakthrough refining technologies that convert lignocellulosic biomass into low-carbon transportation fuels at commercial scale, including cellulosic ethanol, gasoline, renewable diesel, synthetic 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”). Bioleum plans to contribute to domestic energy dominance by directly building, owning, and operating a network of refineries in the U.S., starting with its planned first 400,000 barrel per year commercial demonstration facility in Oklahoma. Bioleum also licenses its advanced feedstock and 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.bioleum.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. To learn more, please visit www.comstock.inc.
Comstock Social Media Policy
Comstock Inc. has used, and intends to continue using, its investor relations link and main website at www.comstock.inc in addition to its X.com, 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: Judd B. Merrill, Chief Financial Officer Tel (775) 413-6222 ir@comstockinc.com
For media inquiries: Tracy Saville, Director of Marketing 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; divestitures, spin-offs or similar distribution transactions, 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, divestitures, spin-offs or similar distribution transactions, 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, spin-offs or similar distribution transactions, 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.
Key Points: – Sanofi to acquire Vigil Neuroscience for $470 million, expanding its neurology focus. – Deal includes $8 per share and a $2 contingent value right tied to an Alzheimer’s candidate. – The acquisition strengthens Sanofi’s long-term R&D pipeline without impacting 2025 guidance.
In a strategic move to deepen its commitment to neuroscience and neurodegenerative disorders, French pharmaceutical giant Sanofi (SASY.PA) announced it will acquire Vigil Neuroscience (VIGL.O), a U.S.-based clinical-stage biotech company, in a deal valued at $470 million. The transaction includes an upfront cash payment of $8 per share, along with a $2 per share contingent value right (CVR) tied to the progress of Vigil’s Alzheimer’s drug candidate, VG-3927.
The acquisition signals Sanofi’s growing ambition in the neurology space, particularly in the high-stakes race to develop effective treatments for Alzheimer’s disease, a market expected to grow dramatically as global populations age. VG-3927, an oral drug currently in clinical development, is the centerpiece of the deal and could offer a differentiated approach to treating Alzheimer’s by targeting the TREM2 receptor, which plays a role in immune responses in the brain.
This deal is part of a broader, aggressive push by Sanofi into neuroscience and U.S.-based innovation. Earlier this month, the company announced it would invest $20 billion in the U.S. through 2030, a capital injection aimed at bolstering research, development, and domestic manufacturing capabilities. The acquisition of Vigil aligns with this strategic direction, expanding Sanofi’s U.S. biotech footprint and pipeline in tandem.
The CVR component of the deal is particularly notable. CVRs are often used in biotech mergers to tie additional shareholder value to the success of specific development milestones. In this case, the extra $2 per share is dependent on the advancement of VG-3927, which could become a valuable addition to Sanofi’s neurology portfolio if it clears clinical and regulatory hurdles.
Sanofi already had a vested interest in Vigil before this announcement. In June 2024, the French firm made a $40 million equity investment in Vigil, securing exclusive negotiation rights to VG-3927. This prior relationship helped pave the way for the full acquisition, giving Sanofi a head start in due diligence and integration planning.
Interestingly, Vigil’s other key asset, VGL101, a monoclonal antibody program, is excluded from the acquisition and will be returned to its original licensor, Amgen (AMGN). This indicates Sanofi’s laser focus on VG-3927 and its potential as an oral therapy—a more scalable and patient-friendly alternative to injectable biologics currently used in Alzheimer’s treatment.
The transaction is expected to close in the third quarter of 2025, pending customary regulatory approvals. Sanofi confirmed that the acquisition would not impact its 2025 financial guidance, suggesting it is being funded through existing capital reserves or allocated R&D spending.
As big pharma continues to chase the next blockbuster treatment in neurology, Sanofi’s acquisition of Vigil could position the company as a stronger contender in the evolving Alzheimer’s market—provided VG-3927 delivers on its clinical promise.
House Republicans have passed a massive new tax and spending proposal dubbed the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act,” aiming to rewrite large portions of the U.S. tax code while reshaping safety net programs and personal finance tools. The multi-trillion-dollar legislation is already stirring debate on Wall Street and Main Street alike, with wide-reaching implications for taxpayers, investors, and public programs.
One of the centerpiece changes is the permanent extension of the 2017 Trump tax cuts, along with a significant expansion of the SALT (state and local tax) deduction. The new cap would rise to $40,000 in 2025—up from $10,000—before gradually increasing through 2033. The benefit phases out for incomes above $500,000, reinforcing its tilt toward middle- and upper-middle-income households.
The bill temporarily boosts the child tax credit from $2,000 to $2,500 through 2028, but offers no added benefit for families with very low incomes who don’t owe federal tax. Analysts caution that about 17 million children may continue to be left out of full credit eligibility.
Among the new personal finance tools is a $4,000 “bonus deduction” for seniors aged 65 and up, aimed at helping retirees reduce their taxable income. It applies fully to individuals earning up to $75,000 and couples earning up to $150,000.
The legislation also expands the reach of health savings accounts (HSAs), doubling annual contribution limits to $8,600 for individuals and $17,100 for couples earning under $75,000 and $150,000, respectively. Starting in 2026, HSAs could also be used for select fitness expenses, like gym memberships, up to $500 per individual or $1,000 per couple.
A notable new provision introduces government-seeded savings vehicles for children, now branded “Trump Accounts.” These accounts start with a $1,000 deposit from the U.S. Treasury and can be used for education, home buying, or launching a business. Parents can contribute up to $5,000 annually, with investments growing tax-deferred.
There are also breaks for car buyers and tipped workers. A new tax deduction allows up to $10,000 in annual auto loan interest for vehicles assembled in the U.S., while tip income for workers earning under $160,000 would be temporarily exempt from federal tax through 2028.
To fund these changes, the bill proposes historic cuts to Medicaid and SNAP, totaling roughly $1 trillion. Tighter work requirements could result in 14 million people losing health coverage and 3 million households losing food assistance, according to policy analysts.
For student borrowers, the news isn’t good. The bill would eliminate subsidized loans, meaning interest would begin accruing while students are in school. Forgiveness on income-driven repayment plans would be delayed to 30 years in many cases, drawing criticism from higher education experts.
Though markets may welcome expanded consumer spending power and tax relief, concerns about the growing deficit and the bill’s political path forward loom large. The Senate is expected to revise key components before a final vote.
Whether the “Big Beautiful Bill” becomes law as drafted or is reshaped in the coming weeks, its impact could ripple across household budgets and investment strategies for years.
The 63-Acre Mix-Use Urban Smart Home City in The Miami Little River District will include High- & Mid-Rise Buildings with over 5,700 Condos and Apartments including Workforce and Affordable Living, 350,000 SQF of Retail, 1.5 Million SQF of Green Walkways, Parks, Bike Paths, Shuttle Lanes, a New $35 Million Tri-Rail Station, and More
SKYX is Expected to Deploy Over 500,000 Units of its Advanced and Smart Home Plug & Play Platform Technologies and Products, including an AI Ecosystem. SKYX has Financial Backing from U.S. and Global Manufacturers to Support its Massive Product Deployment
The $3 Billion Project is Led by Prominent Developers SG Holdings, a Joint Venture between Swerdlow Group, SJM Partners, and Alben Duffie
The Architecture and Design of the Project is Led by World-Renowned Architectural Firm Arquitectonica
The Groundbreaking Smart Home Mixed-Use Major Development Will Redefine Miami’s Urban Landscape
MIAMI, May 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — SKYX Platforms Corp. (NASDAQ: SKYX) (“SKYX” or the “Company”), a highly disruptive smart home platform technology company with over 97 issued and pending patents globally and a growing portfolio of over 60 lighting and home décor websites, with a mission to make homes and buildings become smart, safe, and advanced as the new standard today announced a major collaboration with a $3 billion mixed-use smart city development in the Little River District in the heart of Miami. SKYX has financial backing from U.S. and Global manufacturers to support its massive product deployment.
SKYX is expected to deliver over 500,000 units of its advanced and plug & play smart home technologies. SKYX’s platform technologies make homes and buildings safer, smart, and advanced, while saving significant time and cost.
SKYX’s deployed products will include ceiling outlet receptacles, its all-in-one smart home platform technology, an AI ecosystem, and plug & play products including lighting, ceiling fans, recessed lights, EXIT signs, emergency lighting, downlights, and indoor/outdoor wall lighting among others.
Per developers’ commitment to an advanced smart and safe urban community, all homes will be provided with SKYX’s all-in-one smart home platform technology that will include smart and safety features such as WIFI and WIFI repeaters, voice, and app controls, a 911 emergency calling feature, speakers, room to room intercom, emergency light, safety night light, color changing light, smoke and CO detectors, thermostats, among other AI and smart home features. Developers will be providing free internet for all community apartments. The Miami Little River project will be the first of its kind in the State of Florida.
SKYX’s technologies offer long-term recurring revenue opportunities through upgrades, product interchangeability, monitoring services, subscriptions, and platform-wide integrations for future developments.
The groundbreaking 63-acre urban revitalization project will be one of the largest housing and smart home initiatives in Miami’s history and will offer the 2,400 affordable apartments services, technology and amenities usually offered in high-end projects. The project is led by prominent developers SG Holdings, a joint venture comprised of the Swerdlow Group, SJM Partners and Alben Duffie, the team that has just delivered the 1.5 million sq. ft. Sawyer Walk project in Miami’s Overtown area.
The Urban Mixed-Use Smart Home Development will Contain High- & Mid-Rise Buildings and Housing and Will Include:
Over 5,700 residential units, including workforce and affordable housing
350,000 square feet of retail and commercial space including major and national retailers, a major supermarket, big box retail, restaurants, offices, convenience stores, food and beverage options, and more
1.5 million square feet of green walkways, parks, bike paths, and shuttle lanes
A new $35 million Tri-Rail station
250,000+ square feet of publicly accessible green space
Amenities including fitness centers, pools, computer labs, among others
The Groundbreaking Smart Home Mixed-Use Major Development Will Redefine Miami’s Urban Landscape
Michael Swerdlow, Founder and CEO of Swerdlow Group and lead partner in SG Holdings, said, “Our $3 billion mixed-use development is set to redefine the urban landscape of Miami. To support that vision, we are integrating safe, advanced, and intelligent technologies—like SKYX’s innovative plug-and-play smart home platform—across our buildings and residences. These technologies will deliver meaningful value to our homeowners and the broader community.”
Stephen Garchik, Founder of SJM Partners, and a principal partner in SG Holdings, said, “Our 63-acre mixed-use development is designed to be a model for the future of smart urban living—safe, connected, and forward-thinking. We are looking forward to incorporating SKYX’s game-changing technologies, which will add significant value to our project, while enhancing safety, functionality, and overall experience of our buildings and homes and for the entire community.”
Rani Kohen, Founder, Inventor and Executive Chairman of SKYX Platforms Corp., said, “We are proud to collaborate on a Miami urban mixed-use smart city project of this magnitude in the heart of the city. Our advanced plug & play smart platform was designed to support the next generation of urban developments, and we look forward to the opportunity to contribute to a connected, safer, and more efficient living environment.”
Khadija Mustafa, Global AI and Sales Leader at Microsoft and Senior Technology Advisor to SKYX, added: “This Miami groundbreaking smart city project marks the start of a new era in intelligent living. While phones and cars have leapt ahead, the building socket has been left behind — until now. SKYX is laying the infrastructure to not just connect homes, hotels, and communities, but to unlock a gateway for AI-enabled services that will redefine how we live, work, and connect.”
As electricity is a standard in every home and building, our mission is to make homes and buildings become safe-advanced and smart as the new standard. SKYX has a series of highly disruptive advanced-safe-smart platform technologies, with over 97 U.S. and global patents and patent pending applications. Additionally, the Company owns over 60 lighting and home decor websites for both retail and commercial segments. Our technologies place an emphasis on high quality and ease of use, while significantly enhancing both safety and lifestyle in homes and buildings. We believe that our products are a necessity in every room in both homes and other buildings in the U.S. and globally. For more information, please visit our website at https://skyplug.com/ or follow us on LinkedIn.
Forward-Looking Statements
Certain statements made in this press release are not based on historical facts, but are forward-looking statements. These statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as “aim,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “can,” “could,” “continue,” “estimate,” “expect,” “evaluate,” “forecast,” “guidance,” “intend,” “likely,” “may,” “might,” “objective,” “ongoing,” “outlook,” “plan,” “potential,” “predict,” “probable,” “project,” “seek,” “should,” “target” “view,” “will,” or “would,” or the negative thereof or other variations thereon or comparable terminology, although not all forward-looking statements contain these words. These statements reflect the Company’s reasonable judgment with respect to future events and are subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors, many of which have outcomes difficult to predict and may be outside our control, that could cause actual results or outcomes to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. Such risks and uncertainties include statements relating to the Company’s ability to successfully launch, commercialize, develop additional features and achieve market acceptance of its products and technologies and integrate its products and technologies with third-party platforms or technologies; the Company’s efforts and ability to drive the adoption of its products and technologies as a standard feature, including their use in homes, hotels, offices and cruise ships; the Company’s ability to capture market share; the Company’s estimates of its potential addressable market and demand for its products and technologies; the Company’s ability to raise additional capital to support its operations as needed, which may not be available on acceptable terms or at all; the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern; the Company’s ability to execute on any sales and licensing or other strategic opportunities; the possibility that any of the Company’s products will become National Electrical Code (NEC)-code or otherwise code mandatory in any jurisdiction, or that any of the Company’s current or future products or technologies will be adopted by any state, country, or municipality, within any specific timeframe or at all; risks arising from mergers, acquisitions, joint ventures and other collaborations; the Company’s ability to attract and retain key executives and qualified personnel; guidance provided by management, which may differ from the Company’s actual operating results; the potential impact of unstable market and economic conditions on the Company’s business, financial condition, and stock price; and other risks and uncertainties described in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its periodic reports on Form 10-K and Form 10-Q. There can be no assurance as to any of the foregoing matters. Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date of this press release, and the Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by U.S. federal securities laws.
Bitcoin soared to a new all-time high on Wednesday, piercing through the $109,000 mark and marking yet another milestone in the cryptocurrency’s volatile but increasingly legitimized journey. The flagship digital asset reached an intraday peak of $109,500 before slightly paring gains, according to data from Coin Metrics. At last check, it was trading around $108,955—up over 2% on the day and 16% higher for the month of May so far.
This surge caps off a month of bullish momentum for Bitcoin, fueled by a cocktail of macroeconomic tailwinds, favorable sentiment, and deepening institutional adoption. Analysts say the rally is being supported by a combination of softening U.S. inflation, easing geopolitical tensions—especially in U.S.-China trade—and mounting concerns about fiat currencies following Moody’s recent downgrade of U.S. sovereign debt.
Just months ago, in April, Bitcoin had dipped as low as $74,000, amid heightened global uncertainty and a broader risk-off sentiment. The turnaround underscores how quickly sentiment can swing in the crypto space—especially when supported by fundamental developments.
Institutional Money Flows In
Institutional interest continues to be a driving force behind Bitcoin’s latest leg higher. Exchange-traded funds (ETFs) tied to the digital asset have attracted more than $40 billion in cumulative inflows, with just two days of outflows in May—a sign of sustained demand.
Meanwhile, on-chain data reveals declining selling pressure. Bitcoin inflows into centralized exchanges remain low, suggesting long-term holders are staying put. Liquidity is also expanding, as seen by growing reserves of Tether (USDT), a stablecoin often used to enter crypto positions, now sitting at record levels on exchanges. This indicates fresh buying power is ready to be deployed.
Regulatory Progress Fuels Optimism
Another catalyst powering the rally is the recent advancement of crypto-focused legislation in Washington. The U.S. Senate this week approved a bill to establish a national framework for regulating stablecoins, a key component of the broader crypto ecosystem. President Donald Trump has expressed interest in signing the legislation before the August congressional recess—a development that could bring clarity and credibility to the space.
Adding fuel to the fire, Coinbase—the largest U.S. crypto exchange—was recently added to the S&P 500 index, a symbolic milestone that’s helping cement crypto’s place in the traditional financial system.
As Bitcoin climbs to new heights, questions naturally arise about sustainability and the possibility of a correction. But for now, the world’s largest cryptocurrency is riding high, and investors are watching closely to see if this breakout is just the beginning of another historic bull run.
Take a moment to take a look at emerging growth cryptocurrency companies Bitcoin Depot and Bit Digital.
Vancouver, British Columbia–(Newsfile Corp. – May 21, 2025) – Nicola Mining Inc.(TSXV: NIM) (FSE: HLIA) (OTCQB: HUSIF) (the “Company” or “Nicola“) is pleased to announce that has started receiving gold / silver ore from Talisker Resources Inc. and is currently undergoing pre-production adjustment. The modern $33.0 million plus milling and processing facility, which is located near Merritt, British Columbia, has undergone numerous upgrades in 2H 20241.
Production at the modern facility, which is constructed on free-hold industrial-zone land owned 100% by the Company, is expected to ramp up and reach full capacity in Q3. The Company has also commenced the process of applying for an amendment to its permit, for the purpose of increasing mill throughput.
Nicola’s Merritt Mill is the only facility in the Province of British Columbia permitted to accept third party gold and silver mill feed from throughout the province.
Talisker Resources Ltd. Nicola and Talisker have recently entered into a new Milling Agreement and the latter has commenced transportation of high grade gold/silver ore to Nicola’s mill site. Nicola had previously announced that it and Talisker had signed a Milling Agreement2 on July 18, 2024. Nicola and Talisker have commenced working with Ocean Partners UK Limited3 on the sale of gold and silver concentrate.
Blue Lagoon Resources Nicola continues to work closely with Blue Lagoon Resources (“Blue Lagoon“) and has participated in all tranches of the latter’s recent private placement. In a previous capital round, Blue Lagoon announced that Nicola had subscribed for 7,142,857 shares. The Company will participate in Blue Lagoon’s official opening of the latter’s Dome Mountain Mine on July 9th, 2025, and is completing final preparations to accept Dome’s high-grade gold / silver ore, thereafter.
Dominion Gold / Silver Bulk Sample Nicola announced on March 12, 2025 that it has received the Final Permit (“Final Permit[1]“) to complete a bulk sample[2] at its Dominion Creek Mineral Project (“Dominion”), a high grade gold and silver project, of which Nicola owns a 75% economic interest. Preparation has been initiated to mobilize equipment and begin mining activities in July of 2025.
The Company will provide separate news releases for each project soon.
In addition to commencing gold and silver production, Nicola is currently preparing to commence copper exploration at its New Craigmont Copper Project. To strengthen its geological team the Company has hired Vicente García as a Senior Geologist. Mr. García is an experienced exploration geologist with a strong technical background from having worked on many deposit types in North and South America, including porphyry copper. The Company will issue a separate geological news release soon.
Mr. Peter Espig, CEO of Nicola Mining Inc., commented, “Unlike previous milling campaigns we are excited to realize that Nicola is morphing into a steady and long term producer. It is rare for junior miners to reach the production pinnacle and to monetize current precious metal prices with our partners. We are also witnessing firsthand augmented efficiencies in British Columbia’s permitting of underground mining operations, which characteristically minimize environmental impact, as well as the strategic significance of our fully permitted mill. In addition to production, we have boosted our geological team and are ramping up activities for what we believe to be an exciting exploration campaign, not only at the New Craigmont Project, but also our fully permitted silver mine, Treasure Mountain.”
Qualified Person William Whitty, P. Geo., the Company’s VP Exploration, is the Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 – Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects and supervised the preparation of, and has reviewed and approved, the technical information in this release.
About Nicola Mining Nicola Mining Inc. is a junior mining company listed on the Exchange and Frankfurt Exchange that maintains a 100% owned mill and tailings facility, located near Merritt, British Columbia It has signed Mining and Milling Profit Share Agreements with high grade gold projects. Nicola’s fully permitted mill can process both gold and silver mill feed via gravity and flotation processes.
The Company owns 100% of the New Craigmont Project, a high-grade copper property, which covers an area of over 10,800 hectares along the southern end of the Guichon Batholith and is adjacent to Highland Valley Copper, Canada’s largest copper mine. The Company also owns 100% of the Treasure Mountain Property, which includes 30 mineral claims and a mineral lease, spanning an area exceeding 2,200 hectares.
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 release.
1 News Release describing upgrades: Link 2 News Release: April 9, 2024 Link 3 Ocean Partners operates in several countries throughout the world and maintains a strong global network of relationships and contacts in the base metal mining and smelting sector.
Investigator-initiated Phase 2 trial to evaluate TNX-102 SL’s potential to reduce severity of acute stress reaction (ASR) and frequency of acute stress disorder (ASD)
Trial is sponsored by the University of North Carolina (UNC) and supported by a grant from the U.S. Department of Defense
Topline results from the trial are expected in the second half of 2026
CHATHAM, N.J., May 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Tonix Pharmaceuticals Holding Corp. (Nasdaq: TNXP), a fully-integrated biotechnology company with marketed products and a pipeline of development candidates, today announced the first patient has been dosed in the Phase 2, investigator-initiated OASIS trial to evaluate TNX-102 SL in reducing the severity of acute stress reaction (ASR) and the frequency of acute stress disorder (ASD). The trial is sponsored by the University of North Carolina (UNC) Institute for Trauma Recovery and supported by a $3 million grant from the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD).
“TNX-102 SL has been shown to improve sleep quality in PTSD, and previous trials of TNX-102 SL suggested activity on sleep and stress-related symptoms in the first several weeks of treatment,” said Seth Lederman, M.D., Chief Executive Officer of Tonix Pharmaceuticals. “Addressing sleep disturbances is crucial in managing ASR, as poor sleep can exacerbate other symptoms and hinder recovery. There is a significant unmet need for treating ASR after traumatic events, such as civilian motor vehicle collisions or warfighter experiences in forward bases or in theater. We are encouraged by the support of TNX-102 SL’s prior data improving PTSD symptomatology in the first several weeks of treatment, which may be crucial to reducing ASR symptoms and their sequalae. We look forward to topline results in the second half of 2026.”
The Optimizing Acute Stress Reaction Interventions with TNX-102 SL (OASIS) trial will examine the safety and efficacy of TNX-102 SL to reduce adverse posttraumatic neuropsychiatric sequelae among patients presenting to the emergency department (ED) after a motor vehicle collision (MVC). The trial plans to enroll approximately 180 MVC-trauma survivors at ED study sites around the U.S. Participants will be randomized in the ED to receive a two-week course of either TNX-102 SL 5.6 mg or placebo.
The OASIS trial will build upon a foundation of knowledge and infrastructure developed through the UNC-led, $40 million AURORA initiative. AURORA is a major national research initiative to improve the understanding, prevention and recovery of individuals who experience a traumatic event. AURORA is supported by funding from the National Institutes of Health (NIH), leading brain health nonprofit One Mind, private foundations, and partnerships with leading tech companies, such as Mindstrong Health and Verily Life Sciences, the healthcare arm of Alphabet, the parent company of Google.
Acute and chronic stress disorders can affect both civilian and military populations. According to the National Center for PTSD, in the U.S. about 60% of men and 50% of women experience at least one trauma in their lives In the U.S. alone, one-third of ED visits (40-50 million patients per year) involve evaluation after trauma exposures, and in a 2014 study involving 3,157 US veterans, 87% reported exposure to at least one potentially traumatic event during their service. Moreover, as many as 500,000 U.S. troops who served in wars between 2001 and 2015 were diagnosed with PTSD. Currently, no medication is available in the immediate aftermath of traumatic events to treat the initial reaction and support long term health via a post-trauma clinical trajectory that prevents development or worsening of ASD, thereby also preventing PTSD.
For more information, see ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT06636786
About TNX-102 SL
TNX-102 SL is a centrally acting, non-opioid investigational drug, designed for chronic use. The tablet is a patented sublingual formulation of cyclobenzaprine hydrochloride developed for bedtime dosing for the management of fibromyalgia. Cyclobenzaprine potently binds and acts as an antagonist at four different post-synaptic neuroreceptor subtypes: serotonergic-5-HT2A, adrenergic-α1, histaminergic-H1, and muscarinic-M1-cholinergic receptors. Together, these interactions are believed to target the non-restorative sleep characteristic of fibromyalgia identified by Professor Harvey Moldofsky in 1975. Cyclobenzaprine is not associated with risk of addiction or dependence. The TNX-102 SL tablet is based on a eutectic formulation of cyclobenzaprine HCl and mannitol that provides a stable product which dissolves rapidly and delivers cyclobenzaprine by the transmucosal route efficiently into the bloodstream. The eutectic protects cyclobenzaprine HCl from interacting with the basifying agent that is also part of the formulation and required for efficient transmucosal absorption. Patents based on TNX-102 SL’s eutectic composition and its properties have issued in the U.S., E.U., Japan, China and many other jurisdictions around the world and provide market protection into 2034. The European Patent Office’s Opposition Division maintained Tonix’s European Patent EP 2 968 992 in unamended form after an Opposition was filed against it by a Sandoz subsidiary, Hexal AG. Hexal AG did not appeal that decision. The formulation of TNX-102 SL was designed specifically for sublingual administration and transmucosal absorption for bedtime dosing to target disturbed sleep, while reducing the risk of daytime somnolence. Clinical pharmacokinetic studies indicated that relative to oral cyclobenzaprine, TNX-102 SL results in higher levels of exposure during the first 2 hours after dosing and in deceased levels of the long-lived active metabolite, norcyclobenzaprine in both single dose and multiple dose studies, consistent with bypassing first pass hepatic metabolism. At steady state after 20 days of dosing TNX-102 SL, the dynamic peak level of cyclobenzaprine is higher than the background level of norcyclobenzaprine. In contrast, after 20 days of dosing oral cyclobenzaprine, the simulated peak level of cyclobenzaprine is lower than the simulated background level of norcyclobenzaprine.
Tonix Pharmaceuticals Holding Corp.*
Tonix is a fully integrated biotech company focused on transforming therapies for pain management and vaccines for public health challenges. Tonix’s development portfolio is focused on central nervous system (CNS) disorders. Tonix’s priority is to advance TNX-102 SL, a product candidate for the management of fibromyalgia, for which an NDA was submitted based on two statistically significant Phase 3 studies for the management of fibromyalgia and for which a PDUFA (Prescription Drug User Fee act) goal date of August 15, 2025 has been assigned for a decision on marketing authorization. The FDA has also granted Fast Track designation to TNX-102 SL for the management of fibromyalgia. TNX-102 SL is also being developed to treat acute stress reaction and acute stress disorder under a Physician-Initiated IND at the University of North Carolina in the OASIS study funded by the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD). Tonix’s immunology development portfolio consists of biologics to address organ transplant rejection, autoimmunity and cancer, including TNX-1500, which is an Fc-modified humanized monoclonal antibody targeting CD40-ligand (CD40L or CD154) being developed for the prevention of allograft rejection and for the treatment of autoimmune diseases. Tonix’s infectious disease portfolio includes TNX-801, a vaccine in development for mpox and smallpox, as well as TNX-4200 for which Tonix has a contract with the U.S. DoD’s Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) for up to $34 million over five years. TNX-4200 is a small molecule broad-spectrum antiviral agent targeting CD45 for the prevention or treatment of infections to improve the medical readiness of military personnel in biological threat environments. Tonix owns and operates a state-of-the art infectious disease research facility in Frederick, Md. Tonix Medicines, our commercial subsidiary, markets Zembrace® SymTouch® (sumatriptan injection) 3 mg and Tosymra® (sumatriptan nasal spray) 10 mg for the treatment of acute migraine with or without aura in adults.
* Tonix’s product development candidates are investigational new drugs or biologics; their efficacy and safety have not been established and have not been approved for any indication.
Zembrace SymTouch and Tosymra are registered trademarks of Tonix Medicines. All other marks are property of their respective owners.
This press release and further information about Tonix can be found at www.tonixpharma.com.
Forward Looking Statements
Certain statements in this press release are forward-looking within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements may be identified by the use of forward-looking words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “forecast,” “estimate,” “expect,” and “intend,” among others. These forward-looking statements are based on Tonix’s current expectations and actual results could differ materially. There are a number of factors that could cause actual events to differ materially from those indicated by such forward-looking statements. These factors include, but are not limited to, risks related to the failure to obtain FDA clearances or approvals and noncompliance with FDA regulations; risks related to the failure to successfully market any of our products; risks related to the timing and progress of clinical development of our product candidates; our need for additional financing; uncertainties of patent protection and litigation; uncertainties of government or third party payor reimbursement; limited research and development efforts and dependence upon third parties; and substantial competition. As with any pharmaceutical under development, there are significant risks in the development, regulatory approval and commercialization of new products. Tonix does not undertake an obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement. Investors should read the risk factors set forth in the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on March 18, 2025, and periodic reports filed with the SEC on or after the date thereof. All of Tonix’s forward-looking statements are expressly qualified by all such risk factors and other cautionary statements. The information set forth herein speaks only as of the date thereof.
Zembrace® SymTouch® (sumatriptan succinate) injection (Zembrace) and Tosymra® (sumatriptan) nasal spray are prescription medicines used to treat acute migraine headaches with or without aura in adults who have been diagnosed with migraine.
Zembrace and Tosymra are not used to prevent migraines. It is not known if Zembrace or Tosymra are safe and effective in children under 18 years of age.
Important Safety Information
Zembrace and Tosymra can cause serious side effects, including heart attack and other heart problems, which may lead to death. Stop use and get emergency help if you have any signs of a heart attack:
discomfort in the center of your chest that lasts for more than a few minutes or goes away and comes back
severe tightness, pain, pressure, or heaviness in your chest, throat, neck, or jaw
pain or discomfort in your arms, back, neck, jaw or stomach
shortness of breath with or without chest discomfort
breaking out in a cold sweat
nausea or vomiting
feeling lightheaded
Zembrace and Tosymra are not for people with risk factors for heart disease (high blood pressure or cholesterol, smoking, overweight, diabetes, family history of heart disease) unless a heart exam shows no problem.
Do not use Zembrace or Tosymra if you have:
history of heart problems
narrowing of blood vessels to your legs, arms, stomach, or kidney (peripheral vascular disease)
uncontrolled high blood pressure
hemiplegic or basilar migraines. If you are not sure if you have these, ask your provider.
had a stroke, transient ischemic attacks (TIAs), or problems with blood circulation
severe liver problems
taken any of the following medicines in the last 24 hours: almotriptan, eletriptan, frovatriptan, naratriptan, rizatriptan, ergotamines, or dihydroergotamine. Ask your provider for a list of these medicines if you are not sure.
are taking certain antidepressants, known as monoamine oxidase (MAO)-A inhibitors or it has been 2 weeks or less since you stopped taking a MAO-A inhibitor. Ask your provider for a list of these medicines if you are not sure.
an allergy to sumatriptan or any of the components of Zembrace or Tosymra
Tell your provider about all of your medical conditions and medicines you take, including vitamins and supplements.
Zembrace and Tosymra can cause dizziness, weakness, or drowsiness. If so, do not drive a car, use machinery, or do anything where you need to be alert.
Zembrace and Tosymra may cause serious side effects including:
changes in color or sensation in your fingers and toes
sudden or severe stomach pain, stomach pain after meals, weight loss, nausea or vomiting, constipation or diarrhea, bloody diarrhea, fever
cramping and pain in your legs or hips; feeling of heaviness or tightness in your leg muscles; burning or aching pain in your feet or toes while resting; numbness, tingling, or weakness in your legs; cold feeling or color changes in one or both legs or feet
increased blood pressure including a sudden severe increase even if you have no history of high blood pressure
medication overuse headaches from using migraine medicine for 10 or more days each month. If your headaches get worse, call your provider.
serotonin syndrome, a rare but serious problem that can happen in people using Zembrace or Tosymra, especially when used with anti-depressant medicines called SSRIs or SNRIs. Call your provider right away if you have: mental changes such as seeing things that are not there (hallucinations), agitation, or coma; fast heartbeat; changes in blood pressure; high body temperature; tight muscles; or trouble walking.
hives (itchy bumps); swelling of your tongue, mouth, or throat
seizures even in people who have never had seizures before
The most common side effects of Zembrace and Tosymra include: pain and redness at injection site (Zembrace only); tingling or numbness in your fingers or toes; dizziness; warm, hot, burning feeling to your face (flushing); discomfort or stiffness in your neck; feeling weak, drowsy, or tired; application site (nasal) reactions (Tosymra only) and throat irritation (Tosymra only).
Tell your provider if you have any side effect that bothers you or does not go away. These are not all the possible side effects of Zembrace and Tosymra. For more information, ask your provider.
This is the most important information to know about Zembrace and Tosymra but is not comprehensive. For more information, talk to your provider and read the Patient Information and Instructions for Use. You can also visit https://www.tonixpharma.com or call 1-888-869-7633.
You are encouraged to report adverse effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch, or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
LOS ALTOS, Calif., May 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Unicycive Therapeutics, Inc. (NASDAQ: UNCY) (“Unicycive” or the “Company”), a clinical stage biotechnology company developing therapies for patients with kidney disease, today announced a change in the time of the 2025 Annual Meeting of Stockholders (the “Annual Meeting”). The previously announced date of the meeting (June 9, 2025) and location of the meeting (4300 El Camino Real, Suite 210, Los Altos, CA 94022) will not change, but the meeting will be held at 7:00 a.m., Pacific Daylight Time, on that date. Stockholders of record as of the close of business on April 30, 2025, the record date, can find additional details regarding participation in the Annual Meeting at https://annualgeneralmeetings.com/uncy2025.
About Unicycive Therapeutics
Unicycive Therapeutics is a biotechnology company developing novel treatments for kidney diseases. Unicycive’s lead investigational treatment is oxylanthanum carbonate, a novel phosphate binding agent currently under review by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of hyperphosphatemia in patients with chronic kidney disease who are on dialysis. Unicycive’s second investigational treatment UNI-494 is intended for the treatment of conditions related to acute kidney injury. It has been granted orphan drug designation (ODD) by the FDA for the prevention of Delayed Graft Function (DGF) in kidney transplant patients and has completed a Phase 1 dose-ranging safety study in healthy volunteers. For more information about Unicycive, visit Unicycive.com and follow us on LinkedIn and X.
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.
Investor webinar. Century Lithium recently discussed the Angel Island Lithium project during an insightful investor webinar. Key highlights included: 1) Angel Island is an advanced project with one of the largest lithium deposits in the United States, 2) the project employs a proven patent-pending process for chloride leaching, along with direct lithium extraction to produce lithium carbonate, 3) Century has a secured a 1,770 acre-feet per year water rights permit, and 4) the company has demonstrated its ability to consistently produce battery grade lithium carbonate on-site at its pilot plant in Amargosa Valley, Nevada.
Nearing completion of a Plan of Operations. Management expects to submit a Plan of Operations to the Bureau of Land Management within the next few months, which would enable the company to initiate the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) permitting process. We anticipate the NEPA permitting process could take between 12 and 24 months, depending on whether an environmental assessment or environmental impact statement is required. An environmental impact statement generally takes longer.
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This Company Sponsored Research is provided by Noble Capital Markets, Inc., a FINRA and S.E.C. registered broker-dealer (B/D).
*Analyst certification and important disclosures included in the full report. NOTE: investment decisions should not be based upon the content of this research summary. Proper due diligence is required before making any investment decision.
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Wednesday, May 21, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
Century Lithium Corp. (CYDVF)/OUTPERFORM – Right Time, Right Place, Right Project
Century Lithium Corp. (CYDVF/$0.35 | Price Target: $2.30) Mark Reichman mreichman@noblefcm.com | (561) 999-2272 Right Time, Right Place, Right Project RATING: OUTPERFORM
Investor webinar. Century Lithium recently discussed the Angel Island Lithium project during an insightful investor webinar. Key highlights included: 1) Angel Island is an advanced project with one of the largest lithium deposits in the United States, 2) the project employs a proven patent-pending process for chloride leaching, along with direct lithium extraction to produce lithium carbonate, 3) Century has a secured a 1,770 acre-feet per year water rights permit, and 4) the company has demonstrated its ability to consistently produce battery grade lithium carbonate on-site at its pilot plant in Amargosa Valley, Nevada.
Nearing completion of a Plan of Operations. Management expects to submit a Plan of Operations to the Bureau of Land Management within the next few months, which would enable the company to initiate the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) permitting process. We anticipate the NEPA permitting process could take between 12 and 24 months, depending on whether an environmental assessment or environmental impact statement is required. An environmental impact statement generally takes longer.
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Tuesday, May 20, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
Direct Digital Holdings (DRCT)/MARKET PERFORM – There Is A Path Forward
Direct Digital Holdings (DRCT/$0.53) Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 Jacob Mutchler jmutchler@noblefcm.com | There Is A Path Forward Rating: MARKET PERFORM
Taking the necessary steps to remain listed. The company faces a two pronged battle to remain listed on the NASDAQ. On one front, it must address the shareholder equity deficiency. And, on the other front, it must address the stock price, which is trading below $1. We view the issues separately and believe that the company has a strategy to remain listed on both fronts.
Addressing the shareholder deficit. The company has a program to raise capital through an equity reserve facility to address its shareholder deficit issue to comply with a NASDAQ requirement. To date, the company has raised $7 million on its $20 million facility. The company could raise even more capital when it becomes S3 eligible at the end of Summer. Currently, the company is $23 million short of turning shareholder equity positive.
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Monday, May 19, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
Bit Digital (BTBT)/OUTPERFORM – Reports 1Q25 Results Cocrystal Pharma (COCP)/OUTPERFORM – 1Q25 Reported With Clinical Trial Milestone Updates Codere Online (CDRO)/OUTPERFORM – Mexican Metrics Drive Favorable Results Eledon Pharmaceuticals (ELDN)/OUTPERFORM – 1Q25 Reported With Phase 2 Results Expected In 4Q25 GDEV (GDEV)/OUTPERFORM – Off To A Strong Start Nicola Mining Inc. (HUSIF)/OUTPERFORM – Merritt Mill Expected to Commence Operations in June V2X (VVX)/OUTPERFORM – Another Proposed Stock Sale
Bit Digital (BTBT/$2.38 | Price Target: $5.5) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 Reports 1Q25 Results Rating: OUTPERFORM
1Q25 Overview. Bit Digital’s first quarter results were affected by mark-to-market losses on digital assets and lower bitcoin mining revenue, both of which reflected industry-wide headwinds and the strategic rebalancing of the business. The Company continued to make meaningful progress in scaling the infrastructure platform and diversifying revenue streams.
1Q25 Results. Revenue of $25.1 million was down 17% y-o-y as digital asset mining revenue fell 64%, while cloud services revenue jumped 84%. We were at $24.8 million. Driven by $49.3 million of mark-to-market losses on digital assets, Bit Digital reported a net loss of $57.7 million, or $0.32/sh, compared to a loss of $11.9 million, or $0.09/sh, last year. We projected a loss of $13.1 million, or $0.07/sh.
Fourth Quarter Included New Data On Norovirus Variants. Cocrystal reported a 1Q25 loss of $2.3 million or $(0.23) per share. During the quarter the company announced Phase 1 results from its CDI-988 study in norovirus. Importantly, preclinical data showed efficacy against new norovirus variants. We believe this provides additional support to Cocrystal’s method of targeting highly-conserved viral replication enzymes to make effective drugs against both current and future variants. Cash on March 31, 2025 was $6.9 million.
CDI-988 Activity Includes New Variant Strains. CDI-988 is a protease inhibitor in development for norovirus and corona virus. CDI-988 has shown activity against multiple strains, with new preclinical data in April 2025 showing efficacy against the GII.17 and GII.4 strains that have recently been most prevalent. Results from the Phase 1 high-dose cohort in healthy subjects is expected to be announced in 2Q2025. A human challenge trial is planned for later in FY2025 to evaluate CDI-988 for treatment and prophylaxis against norovirus.
Solid start to the year. First quarter revenues increased a solid 7.5% to €57.0 million, beating our €55.0 million estimate, in spite of currency headwinds. On a constant currency basis, revenues would have increased a strong 17%. Adj. EBITDA of €1.8 million, was slightly better than our €1.4 million estimate.
Maintain full year 2025 estimates, tweaking upward 2026 estimates. Management reiterated revenue and adj. EBITDA guidance for the full year 2025. We anticipate that revenues will accelerate to the high single digits to the low double digits in the third and fourth quarter, respectively. We are tweaking upward our full year 2026 revenue and adj. EBITDA estimates on the the favorable momentum in Mexico and prospects for lower marketing spend.
Eledon Pharmaceuticals (ELDN/$2.87 | Price Target: $10) Robert LeBoyer rleboyer@noblefcm.com | (212) 896-4625 1Q25 Reported With Phase 2 Results Expected In 4Q25 Rating: OUTPERFORM
1Q25 Had Lower Expenses Than We Projected. Eledon reported a loss of $6.5 million or $(0.08) per share, including a gain of $10.1 million related to fair value of warrant liabilities. Without this one-time item, the loss would have been $16.6 million or $(0.21) per share, as Research and Development expense increased less from the previous quarters than we anticipated. We expect R&D to be relatively steady as the Phase 1b and Phase 2 BESTOW trials conclude later in FY2025. Cash on March 31, 2025, was $124.9 million.
Phase 1b Trial Data Expected Mid-Year. The Phase 1b open-label trial is testing an anti-rejection regimen using tegoprubart in kidney transplantation. We see this as important data, since the Phase 2 BESTOW trial is testing this regimen against the standard regimen with tacrolimus. Since historical data for the tacrolimus regimen has been published, we believe the Phase 1b data has some predictive value for the Phase 2 BESTROW trial.
GDEV (GDEV/$15.61 | Price Target: $70) Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 Jacob Mutchler jmutchler@noblefcm.com | Off To A Strong Start Rating: OUTPERFORM
Strong Q1 Results. The company reported Q1 revenue of $97.0 million and adj. EBITDA of $15.6 million, both of which easily surpassed our estimates of $87.0 million and a loss of $0.6 million, respectively, as illustrated in Figure #1 Q1 Results. Notably, while revenue decreased 9% from last year, adj. EBITDA was up substantially from a loss of roughly $1.0 million. The improvement in adj. EBITDA was largely driven by the company’s efficient use of marketing spend and focus on profitability.
Key operating metrics. Notably, while bookings and monthly paying users decreased by 25% and 26%, respectively, compared to the prior year period, the decrease was largely expected as the company is focused on improving the quality of gameplay and not over-monetizing its user base. For example, average bookings per paying user (ABPPU) increased from $88 in Q1’24 to $90 in Q1’25, despite a decrease in monthly paying users.
Nicola Mining Inc. (HUSIF/$0.36 | Price Target: $0.5) Mark Reichman mreichman@noblefcm.com | (561) 999-2272 Merritt Mill Expected to Commence Operations in June Rating: OUTPERFORM
Cash flow sources to support operations. Nicola Mining (TSX.V: NIM, OTCQB: HUSIF) is advancing its flagship New Craigmont Copper Project and owns 100% of the past-producing Treasure Mountain high-grade silver, lead, and zinc underground mine with significant exploration potential and an active mining permit. Nicola distinguishes itself by offering investors significant discovery and value creation potential through its exploration activities at New Craigmont and Treasure Mountain while generating cash flows from the Craigmont Mill, which processes ore from third parties, a sand and gravel pit, rock quarry, and ready-mix cement plant.
A modern mill to serve British Columbia. The Craigmont Mill in Merritt, British Columbia is equipped to process 200 tonnes of ore per day and is authorized for custom milling. Notably, the Merritt Mill is the sole facility in British Columbia permitted to receive and process third-party gold and silver feed from across the province. Nicola has executed Milling and Profit Share Agreements with several key partners, and a sales contract that enables global distribution of gold and silver concentrate.
V2X (VVX/$48.02 | Price Target: $72) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 Hans Baldau hbaldau@noblefcm.com | Another Proposed Stock Sale Rating: OUTPERFORM
Proposed Sale. On Friday, V2X announced AIP, through Vertex Holdco, will sell an additional two million VVX shares on an underwritten basis. The underwriter will have the option to purchase an additional 300,000 shares. V2X is not selling any shares of common stock in the offering, and V2X will not receive any proceeds from the offering by Vertex Aerospace. The offering is expected to close on or about May 19, 2025, subject to customary closing conditions.
Post Sale Ownership. Following the offering, Vertex Aerospace will continue to beneficially own 12,167,286 shares, or approximately 38.4%, of V2X’s outstanding common stock after giving effect to the offering (or 11,867,286 shares, or approximately 37.4%, if the underwriter fully exercises its option to purchase additional shares).
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Friday, May 16, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
Bitcoin Depot (BTM)/OUTPERFORM – Q1 Results Exceed on Revenue and Margin Strength Zomedica (ZOMDF)/OUTPERFORM – Restructuring Begins To Bear Fruit In 1Q25
Bitcoin Depot (BTM/$2.09 | Price Target: $7) Patrick McCann, CFA pmccann@noblefcm.com | (314) 724-6266 Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 Q1 Results Exceed on Revenue and Margin Strength Rating: OUTPERFORM
Strong Q1 results. The company reported 18.5% revenue growth in Q1 to $164.2 million, better than our estimate of $151.0 million. Adj. EBITDA was $20.3 million, significantly better than our estimate of $12.8 million, on the back of strong 20% gross margins (our estimate was 17%).
Ramping in Internationally. Management highlighted that the company deployed roughly 150 kiosks in Australia to date, with approximately 150 additional kiosks ready for deployment. Moreover, the company is evaluating at least 2 additional countries for potential expansion later in 2025.
Zomedica (ZOMDF/$0.06 | Price Target: $0.25) Robert LeBoyer rleboyer@noblefcm.com | (212) 896-4625 Restructuring Begins To Bear Fruit In 1Q25 Rating: OUTPERFORM
1Q25 Showed Expected Year-Over-Year Growth. Zomedica reported 1Q25 loss of $63.9 million or $(0.07) per share, including an Impairment Expense of $55.8 million related to the company’s lower market capitalization and stock price. Excluding this charge, Net Loss would have been about $8.0 million. Revenues of $6.5 million showed an annual increase of 3.8% over 1Q24. As expected, there was a seasonal decline from 4Q24 due to the year-end effect on equipment spending. Cash and equivalents on March 31, 2025 were $64.6 million.
Product Mix Reflects Growing User Base. During the quarter, Consumables increased to 70% of sales with Capital Equipment at 30% of sales. This shifting product mix reflects an increasing total number of instruments in use and more assay offerings to increase utilization of each instrument. We expect the consumable segment to continue its growth as additional capital equipment sales add to the user base and introduction of new assays increases the number of tests run on each instrument.
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Thursday, May 15, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
Sky Harbour Group (SKYH)/OUTPERFORM – Leasing Momentum Drives Favorable Revenue Cadence SKYX Platforms (SKYX)/OUTPERFORM – U.S. Partnership and Automation Bolster Production Agility Snail (SNAL)/OUTPERFORM – Off To A Good Start Unicycive Therapeutics (UNCY)/OUTPERFORM – 1Q25 Reported As OLC PDUFA Date Approaches
Sky Harbour Group (SKYH/$12.32 | Price Target: $23) Patrick McCann, CFA pmccann@noblefcm.com | (314) 724-6266 Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 Leasing Momentum Drives Favorable Revenue Cadence Rating: OUTPERFORM
Q1 results. The company reported Q1 revenue of $5.6 million, better than our estimate of $5.1 million. An adj. EBITDA loss of $3.3 million was roughly in line with our estimate of a loss of $3.4 million.
New campuses leasing up. Notably, the company’s new campus at Phoenix Deerfield Airport (DVT) welcomed its first tenants, while Dallas (ADS) and Denver (APA) are also in the phase 1 lease-up process and should welcome tenants within weeks. The continued lease up of these three campuses is expected to be a significant driver of sequential revenue improvement throughout the balance of the year.
SKYX Platforms (SKYX/$1.35 | Price Target: $5) Patrick McCann, CFA pmccann@noblefcm.com | (314) 724-6266 Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 U.S. Partnership and Automation Bolster Production Agility Rating: OUTPERFORM
Q1 results. The company reported Q1 revenue of $20.1 million, in line with our estimate of $20.4 million. An adj. EBITDA loss of $3.6 million was also largely in line with our loss estimate of $3.4 million.
Flexible production capabilities. In response to recent tariff-related uncertainty, the company established a partnership with U.S.-based Profab Electronics, enhancing its production flexibility. While elevated tariffs remain a policy risk, recent pauses have mitigated any near-term disruption to the company’s production partnerships in Southeast Asia.
Solid Q1 results. The company reported Q1 revenue of $20.1 million and an adj. EBITDA loss of $3.3 million, both of which were better than estimates of $18.0 million and a loss of $4.5 million, respectively. Notably, revenue increased 42.5% over the prior year period and was driven by ARK Ultimate Mobile Edition, released in December 2024, and less deferred revenue associated with ARK: Survival Ascended sales.
Favorable outlook. The company has several releases slated for 2025, including a 10th-anniversary expansion pack for ARK: Survival Evolved, the release of Bellwright on Xbox in Q4, and new content for Ark: Ultimate Mobile Edition. Additionally, the company is releasing nine new titles in 2025, including Robots at Midnight, Honeycomb, and Echoes of Elysium, which could have breakout potential. We view the company’s efforts to drive user engagement and diversify revenue streams favorably
Unicycive Therapeutics (UNCY/$0.56 | Price Target: $6) Robert LeBoyer rleboyer@noblefcm.com | (212) 896-4625 1Q25 Reported As OLC PDUFA Date Approaches Rating: OUTPERFORM
Counting Down To The OLC PDUFA Date. Unicycive reported a 1Q25 loss of $21.2 million or $(0.61) per share, consistent with our estimates. We continue to expect approval of OLC (oxylanthanum carbonate) around its PDUFA date of June 28, followed by its launch later in the year. The company had $19.8 million in cash on March 31, 2025.
OLC Reduces Pill Burden To Improve Compliance. OLC is Unicycive proprietary formulation of lanthanum carbonate. It was developed to reduce serum phosphate levels in renal dialysis patients with only two small pills per day. We expect OLC to compete against Fosrenol (from Shire), the approved formulation of lanthanum, that requires chewing 3 to 6 large pills each day. This difference makes patient compliance easier.
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Wednesday, May 14, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
DLH Holdings (DLHC)/OUTPERFORM – Refined Model GoHealth (GOCO)/OUTPERFORM – Diversifying Revenues With A New Offering Lucky Strike Entertainment (LUCK)/OUTPERFORM – A More Sober View, But Still Positive Tonix Pharmaceuticals (TNXP)/OUTPERFORM – 1Q25 Reported With Preparations For TNX-102 SL Launch in 4Q25
DLH Holdings (DLHC/$4.83 | Price Target: $10) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 Refined Model Rating: OUTPERFORM
Refined Model. We had an opportunity to dig deep into our model with DLH management. As a result of our discussion, we revised our model. While minor, the changes do impact quarterly EPS, so we believe a model revision is instructional for investors.
Changes. We increased our D&A expense in both the third and fourth quarters to $4.25 million from our prior $4 million. In addition, we increased our fourth quarter interest expense to $3.75 million from a prior $3.5 million. We kept our tax rate at 30%. As a result of the changes, our third quarter net income and EPS declined to $350,000 and $0.02, compared to $525,000 and $0.04, respectively, and our fourth quarter declines to $350,000 and $0.02 from $700,000 and $0.05, respectively. For the full year, EPS is now $0.19 versus a prior $0.22.
GoHealth (GOCO/$8.11 | Price Target: $25) Patrick McCann, CFA pmccann@noblefcm.com | (314) 724-6266 Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 Diversifying Revenues With A New Offering Rating: OUTPERFORM
Q1 results. The company reported Q1 revenue of $221.0 million and adj. EBITDA of $42.1 million. The results were below our estimates of $235.0 million in revenue and $49.3 million in adj. EBITDA. Notably, the results did align with management’s previous commentary that the company would execute favorable year-over-year revenue growth in the quarter (revenue was up 19% and adj. was up 56%).
Testing final expense offering. The company recently launched GoHealth Protect, which is its guaranteed acceptance life insurance (final expense) offering. For now, the company is testing out which products fit best with consumers and what the demand function looks like across the Medicare eligible population. Importantly, as the final expense business scales, we believe it could help to balance out the company’s quarterly revenue profile, which is currently concentrated around Q4 and Q1.
Lucky Strike Entertainment (LUCK/$9.16 | Price Target: $17.5) Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 A More Sober View, But Still Positive Rating: OUTPERFORM
Lackluster Q3 Results. The company reported Q3 revenue of $339.9 million and adj. EBITDA of $117.3 million, both of which were lower than our estimates of $360.0 million and $130 million, respectively. Notably, the soft results were largely driven by a decrease in corporate events in California and Seattle and partially offset by a high single-digit increase in food sales and stable retail and league business. While Q3 results were lackluster, we believe the company will gain momentum heading into the summer.
Pulls guidance. While the company did not provide guidance due to economic uncertainty, we believe that the company will demonstrate solid results in the coming quarters, supported by recent acquisitions, new centers, and strong sales in its Summer Season Pass program. Importantly, management highlighted its focus on expense management, with capital expenditures down 20% year to date, which is expected to continue into next year.
Tonix Pharmaceuticals (TNXP/$20.18 | Price Target: $70) Robert LeBoyer rleboyer@noblefcm.com | (212) 896-4625 1Q25 Reported With Preparations For TNX-102 SL Launch in 4Q25 Rating: OUTPERFORM
1Q25 Reported With Product Updates. Tonix reported a 1Q25 loss of $16.8 million or $(2.84) per share, a smaller loss than we had estimated. Product sales were $2.4 million, slightly lower than the $2.6 million in 4Q24. Gross margins were 61%, an improvement over the 54% seen in 4Q24. TNX-102 SL has a PDUFA date of August 15, and preparations continue for launch in 4Q25. Cash on hand on March 31 was $131.7 million.
Anticipation Builds For TNX-102 SL PDUFA Date. We believe the two Phase 3 trials support product approval for TNX-102 SL in its fibromyalgia indication. As we have described in previous Research Notes, fibromyalgia is currently treated with a combination of pain relievers (opioid and neurological), antidepressants, and insomnia drugs. TNX-102 SL could become the first drug to relieve all major symptoms without side effects from each class of drug.
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Tuesday, May 13, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
Gyre Therapeutics, Inc (GYRE)/OUTPERFORM – 1Q25 Highlighted By Product Launch With Phase 3 Data Expected In 2Q25 NN (NNBR)/OUTPERFORM – Post Call Commentary – Transformation Progressing Saga Communications (SGA)/OUTPERFORM – A Long Digital Runway Seanergy Maritime (SHIP)/OUTPERFORM – Updating 2025 Estimates; Rating Remains an Outperform SelectQuote (SLQT)/OUTPERFORM – Prescription for Profit: Targets Pharmacy Margin Expansion V2X (VVX)/OUTPERFORM – Announces $100 Million Share Repurchase Program
Gyre Therapeutics, Inc (GYRE/$10.83 | Price Target: $20) Robert LeBoyer rleboyer@noblefcm.com | (212) 896-4625 1Q25 Highlighted By Product Launch With Phase 3 Data Expected In 2Q25 Rating: OUTPERFORM
1Q25 Reported With Product Launch and Clinical Trial Updates. Gyre reported Net Income of $3.7 million with Net Income Attributable to Common Shareholders of $2.7 million or $(0.03) per share. Data analysis for the Phase 3 Hydronidone trial in CHB-ALF (chronic hepatitis B-associated liver fibrosis) is ongoing, with a data announcement expected during 2Q25. The company also launched avatrombopag in China and plans to launch nintedanib during 2Q25. The cash balance on March 31, 2025 was $51.3 million.
Product Sales Declined But Gross Margin Was As Expected. Product sales were $22.1 million, a decline from $27.8 million in 4Q24. The decline in sales of Etuary, its drug for ITP, was attributed to the economic conditions in China and the shift in marketing resources away from Etuary and toward the new products, nintedanib and avatrombopag. Gross Margin of 96% was as we expected despite lower product volume.
NN (NNBR/$1.88 | Price Target: $6) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 Hans Baldau hbaldau@noblefcm.com | Post Call Commentary – Transformation Progressing Rating: OUTPERFORM
Transformation Plan on Track. The enterprise transformation is now roughly 70% complete. Notably, the diversification is away from the automotive industry. Of the $160 million (peak value) of new wins over the past seven quarters, one-quarter are non-auto, and about half of the pipeline is now in non-auto verticals.
New Business. NN shifted the business development focus to closing and winning immediate ramp up sales, given the softness in certain end markets. The Company now has 120 programs that are ramping up this year worth $55 million
Saga Communications (SGA/$11.41 | Price Target: $18) Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 A Long Digital Runway Rating: OUTPERFORM
Favorable Digital growth outlook. Digital revenues are expected to accelerate to 18% revenue growth in Q2 versus 13.5% in Q1. Year to date, the company generated $5.5 million in digital revenue, surpassing the $5.0 million generated for full year 2024. We believe that the company’s Digital businesses should grow faster than industry averages.
Q1 Overview. The company reported Q1 revenue of $24.2 million and an adj. EBITDA loss of $0.5 million, both of which declined over the prior year period, but were modestly better than our estimates of $23.0 million and a loss of $1.1 million. Notably, the company is focused on its blended digital growth strategy and improving profitability. We believe the company’s strategic actions are a step in the right direction for returning toward revenue and adj. EBITDA growth.
Seanergy Maritime (SHIP/$5.98 | Price Target: $11.5) Mark Reichman mreichman@noblefcm.com | (561) 999-2272 Hans Baldau hbaldau@noblefcm.com | Updating 2025 Estimates; Rating Remains an Outperform Rating: OUTPERFORM
Updating first quarter estimates. We are revising our first quarter 2025 adjusted EBITDA and EPS estimates to $6.1 million and a loss of $0.38, respectively, from $6.0 million and a loss of $0.39. The revisions are driven by fewer dry-docking days during the quarter and an increase in operating days to 1,716 from 1,691. We also expect lower general and administrative costs, though this benefit is partially offset by higher vessel expenses tied to an increase in estimated ownership days.
Full year 2025 estimates. We are lowering our adjusted EBITDA and EPS estimates to $68.1 million and $0.59, down from $79.6 million and $1.17, respectively. The downward revisions reflect lower time charter rates and fewer operating days of 7,241 compared to our previous estimate of 7,391 due to an increase in the number of dry-docking days during the year. We have lowered our total revenue forecast to $142.5 million from $154.9 million. We modestly lowered our operating expense estimate to $111.7 million from $113.2 million, driven by expectations for lower general and administrative costs.
SelectQuote (SLQT/$2.35 | Price Target: $7) Patrick McCann, CFA pmccann@noblefcm.com | (314) 724-6266 Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 Prescription for Profit: Targets Pharmacy Margin Expansion Rating: OUTPERFORM
FY Q3 results. The company reported fiscal Q3 revenue of $408.2 million, largely in line with our estimate of $417.0 million. Adj. EBITDA of $37.7 million was 10% lower than our estimate of $41.8 million, the variance largely due to higher cost of revenue.
Focusing on Pharmacy efficiency. In April, the company opened its new fulfillment center in Kansas, which is expected to drive higher profitability in the Healthcare Services segment over the long-term through newer technology and machinery. We expect the new facility to be a drag on profitability over the next quarter or so, however, due to the investments the company is making in the facility. The launch of the new facility aligns with the company’s goal to focus more on Healthcare Service profitability, given the scale that the segment has already achieved (approx. 106k SelectRx members).
V2X (VVX/$51.41 | Price Target: $72) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 Hans Baldau hbaldau@noblefcm.com | Announces $100 Million Share Repurchase Program Rating: OUTPERFORM
New Repurchase Program. Yesterday, V2X announced that its Board of Directors approved a share repurchase program under which the Company may purchase, from time to time, up to $100 million of the Company’s common stock for a three-year term ending on May 12, 2028.
Why? According to management, the share repurchase program reflects the strength of the business and management’s commitment to enhancing shareholder returns through a disciplined capital allocation strategy. As of yesterday’s close, the $100 million represents approximately 6.1% of the outstanding shares. To remind investors, private equity firm AIP owns about 45% of the outstanding shares.
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Monday, May 12, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
Comstock (LODE)/MARKET PERFORM – Gaining Momentum CoreCivic, Inc. (CXW)/OUTPERFORM – Riding the Wave E.W. Scripps (SSP)/OUTPERFORM – Sports Gives It A Leg Up FAT Brands (FAT)/OUTPERFORM – First Quarter Results Information Services Group (III)/OUTPERFORM – Reports 1Q25 Results Kelly Services (KELYA)/OUTPERFORM – MRP Integration Drives Strong Results Kratos Defense & Security (KTOS)/OUTPERFORM – Well Positioned to Benefit From Administration Priorities MariMed Inc (MRMD)/OUTPERFORM – Making Progress Ocugen (OCGN)/OUTPERFORM – 1Q25 Reported With All Three Main Clinical Trials On Schedule Sky Harbour Group (SKYH)/OUTPERFORM – Initiation of Coverage: A Long Cashflow Growth Runway
Investor webinar. Comstock recently hosted a webinar to discuss the company’s first-quarter 2025 financial and operational performance, milestones associated with its renewable fuels and metals recycling platforms, and the outlook for the remainder of 2025. While Comstock continues to make rapid progress toward commercializing its Fuels and Metals businesses, perhaps the most significant achievement has been laying the financial foundation and framework for capitalizing its businesses to facilitate growth. These include LODE’s maintenance of the authorized share count, the recent share consolidation, a Series A financing for Comstock Fuels, and seeking financial and strategic partners to provide direct subsidiary-level financing.
Upcoming milestones. While Comstock summarized corporate and subsidiary-level objectives for 2025, we view several as significant. These include: 1) completing a Comstock Fuels Series A financing during the second quarter, 2) receipt of permits to expand Comstock Metals’ storage capacity and for the construction of its first industry-scale facility, 3) advancing project level financing for subsidiary projects, 4) the planned spin-off of Comstock Fuels, and 5) finalizing a plan to monetize Comstock’s properties and water rights in Silver Springs, Nevada.
CoreCivic, Inc. (CXW/$21.88 | Price Target: $28) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 Riding the Wave Rating: OUTPERFORM
A Rising Tide. This is a significant moment of time in CoreCivic’s history, in our opinion. Never in the 42-year company history has there been so much activity and demand for CoreCivic’s services. As we have stated in prior reports, demand for the Company’s services could have a significant upside impact on operating results.
1Q25. First quarter revenue came in at $488.6 million, compared to $500.7 million last year and our $480 estimate, with the decline related to the absence of revenue from the Dilley and CalCity facilities in 1Q25. Adjusted EBITDA was $78.3 million versus $89.5 million. CoreCivic reported EPS of $0.23 compared to an adjusted $0.25 last year and our $0.12 estimate.
E.W. Scripps (SSP/$2.32 | Price Target: $10) Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 Jacob Mutchler jmutchler@noblefcm.com | Sports Gives It A Leg Up Rating: OUTPERFORM
Q1 better than expected. The first quarter results were solid, beating expectations. Total revenues were $524.4 million, better than our $519.5 million estimate. Importantly, the largest revenue variance was due to better than expected core advertising, which carries incrementally higher margins. Combined with earlier cost reductions, particularly in its Network segment, the company roundly beat adj. EBITDA expectations, $75.6 million versus our $56.5 million estimate.
Powering through the headwinds. The company gave encouraging Q2 revenue guidance, reflecting improving core advertising trends and strong Connected TV revenue. Core advertising is expected to be down more modestly in Q2 than in Q1, driven by ad demand for its sports programming. Connected TV is expected to continue its favorable revenue trajectory (which was up 42% in Q1).
FAT Brands (FAT/$2.75 | Price Target: $15) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 First Quarter Results Rating: OUTPERFORM
Progressing. In spite of the uncertain economy, FAT Brands continued to make progress during 1Q25. A total of 23 locations were opened in 1Q25, up 37% from 1Q24. YTD, the Company has signed agreements for an additional 100-plus locations, adding to the over 1,000 location pipeline. The initial Twin Hospitality distribution was accomplished and one of the whole business securitizations was amended.
1Q25 Results. Revenue was $142 million, down from $152 million in the year ago period, impacted by a 3.4% system-wide same store sale decline and lower revenues due to the closure of one Smokey Bones location during its conversion to a Twin Peaks lodge, partially offset by revenues generated by new Twin Peaks lodges. Reported loss was $46 million, or $2.73/sh, compared to a net loss of $38.3 million, or $2.37/sh, in 1Q24.
Information Services Group (III/$4.64 | Price Target: $5) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 Jacob Mutchler jmutchler@noblefcm.com | Reports 1Q25 Results Rating: OUTPERFORM
Q1 Results. Reported Q1 revenue of $59.6 million, slightly over the top end of management’s issued guidance and our estimate of $59.0 million. Net income totaled $1.5 million, or $0.03 per diluted share, an improvement from a loss of $3.4 million, or $0.07 per share, last year. We estimated net income of $0.78 million or $0.02 per share. Adjusted EBITDA was $7.4 million, near the high end of management’s issued guidance and above our estimate of $6.5 million. Adjusted EPS for Q1 came in at $0.07 per share, up from $0.01 per share last year, and above our estimate of $0.05 per share.
Economic Outlook. ISG is well positioned to capitalize on market disruption as clients accelerate digital transformation, adopting cloud solutions, modernizing infrastructure, and deploying AI operations to improve IT performance and reduce costs. These industry shifts align directly with ISG’s core strengths in digital strategy, sourcing advisory, and cost optimization.
Kelly Services (KELYA/$12.09 | Price Target: $27) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 Jacob Mutchler jmutchler@noblefcm.com | MRP Integration Drives Strong Results Rating: OUTPERFORM
Q1 Results. The Company recorded revenue of $1.16 billion, up 11.5% year-over-year, in line with our estimate of $1.16 billion. Adj. EBITDA came in at $34.9 million, up 4.8% over the prior year period and modestly lower than our estimate of $36.5 million. Adj. EBITDA margin decreased 20 basis points to 3.0%. Furthermore, Kelly reported net income of $0.16/sh. On an adjusted basis, EPS was $0.39/sh compared to $0.56/sh last year and our estimate of $0.60/sh.
MRP Integration. The majority of MRP operations were absorbed into the SET segment. However, MRP’s Sevenstep business, along with the OCG and P&I segments, have been combined into Enterprise Talent Management (ETM). In connection with the integration and realignment, Kelly took a $10.7 million charge in the quarter.
Kratos Defense & Security (KTOS/$33.61 | Price Target: $38) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 Well Positioned to Benefit From Administration Priorities Rating: OUTPERFORM
1Q25. In the first quarter of 2025, revenue increased $25.4 million to $302.6 million from $277.2 million in 1Q24. We had forecast revenue of $290 million. Kratos reported adjusted EBITDA of $26.7 million, compared to $26 million in 1Q24 and our $22.5 million estimate. Diluted GAAP EPS was $0.03 versus breakeven last year. Adjusted EPS was $0.12 up from $0.11 last year.
Positioning. With expectations the Defense budget will soon exceed $1 trillion and a major emphasis from the government on increasing innovation, reducing cost, increasing efficiencies, receiving more for less, and rapidly fielding relevant hardware and systems now, we believe Kratos is extremely well positioned.
MariMed Inc (MRMD/$0.1 | Price Target: $0.25) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 Making Progress Rating: OUTPERFORM
Moving Forward. MariMed brands continue to capture more share across the markets served. The Company expanded into 70 new storefronts in the quarter. Although MariMed’s brands are already top sellers in their markets, we believe there is a significant opportunity to seize additional market share.
1Q25. Revenue in the first quarter of 2025 of $38 million was virtually unchanged from the first quarter of 2024. We had projected $38.8 million. Adjusted EBITDA was $2.56 million, down from $4.66 million last year. Reported net loss was $5.4 million, or $0.01/sh, compared to a net loss of $1.3 million, or breakeven, last year.
Ocugen (OCGN/$0.67 | Price Target: $8) Robert LeBoyer rleboyer@noblefcm.com | (212) 896-4625 1Q25 Reported With All Three Main Clinical Trials On Schedule Rating: OUTPERFORM
Clinical Programs Meet Or Beat Expected Timeframes. Ocugen reported a 1Q25 loss of $15.4 million or $(0.05) per share, consistent with our estimates. The company’s three clinical trial continue to progress on schedule, with the first BLA application expected in mid-2026. Its fourth product, OCU200, initiated Phase 1 patient treatment during the quarter. Cash balance on March 31 was $38.1 million, projected to fund operations through early FY2026.
OCU400 Trial Continues To Lead The Way. The OCU400 liMeliGhT (pronounced “Limelight”) Phase 3 trial in RP continues to enroll patients, with completion expected around YE2025. The study enrolls patients over 5 years of age with any combination of over 100 mutations that cause RP. These patients are at stages ranging from early to advanced RP.
Sky Harbour Group (SKYH/$11.42 | Price Target: $23) Patrick McCann, CFA pmccann@noblefcm.com | (314) 724-6266 Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 Initiation of Coverage: A Long Cashflow Growth Runway Rating: OUTPERFORM
Initiating coverage with an Outperform rating and $23 price target. Sky Harbour Group (NYSE: SKYH) is a specialized aviation infrastructure developer focused on private and business aviation hangar facilities. It develops premium-grade hangar campuses under long-term ground lease agreements. With low land costs, tax-exempt financing, and strong tenant demand, we believe SKYH is positioned to deliver robust rental revenue growth and long-term free cash flow generation.
High-margin leasing model. Sky Harbour leases airport land at favorable long-term rates that are often under $1 per square foot annually. While only a fraction (1/4-1/3) of the land footprint is usable as rentable hangar space, this space can command upwards of $40 per square foot in rent. This creates a significant spread for SKYH. Furthermore, the company owns a prefabricated steel manufacturer, allowing for cost controls and delivery reliability.
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Friday, May 9, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
1-800-Flowers.com (FLWS)/MARKET PERFORM – Recent Quarter Highlights Significant Challenges Cadrenal Therapeutics (CVKD)/OUTPERFORM – Cadrenal Reports Tecarfarin Updates With 1Q25 Report DLH Holdings (DLHC)/OUTPERFORM – Post Call Commentary and Updated Models Information Services Group (III)/OUTPERFORM – First Look 1Q25 InPlay Oil (IPOOF)/OUTPERFORM – Revising Estimates Based on Updated Corporate Guidance Kelly Services (KELYA)/OUTPERFORM – First Look 1Q25 Lucky Strike Entertainment (LUCK)/OUTPERFORM – Navigating Economic Headwinds ONE Group Hospitality (STKS)/OUTPERFORM – A Solid Start to 2025 Saga Communications (SGA)/OUTPERFORM – Unique Digital Strategy Gains Traction Townsquare Media (TSQ)/OUTPERFORM – Showing The Rest How Its Done
1-800-Flowers.com (FLWS/$5.79) Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 Jacob Mutchler jmutchler@noblefcm.com | Recent Quarter Highlights Significant Challenges Rating: MARKET PERFORM
Fiscal Q3 disappoints. Fiscal Q3 revenues of $311.5 million was well below our $367.8 million estimate. Adj. EBITDA loss of $38.6 million was below our seasonal loss estimate of $12.4 million. In spite of a good Valentine’s Day, fiscal third quarter results were adversely affected by weakened consumer confidence and macro economic forces.
Pulls guidance. In lieu of recent trade policies and a weakened consumer, management pulled fiscal full year 2025 guidance. We estimate that fiscal Q4 revenues will decline roughly 6.3% (including the benefit of Easter) and that the company will report an adj. EBITDA loss of $20.5 million. Fiscal full year 2025 revenue and adj. EBIDA are revised to $1.687 billion and $29.2 million, respectively.
First Quarter Was Highlighted By The Collaboration With Abbott. Cadrenal Therapeutics reported a 1Q25 loss of $3.8 million or $(2.09) per share. An important development during the quarter was an agreement with Abbott to develop tecarfarin in LVADs (Left Ventricular Assist Devices). As planned, the company held a meeting with the FDA to discuss the next steps for clinical development of tecarfarin, its anticoagulant. Cash on March 31, 2025 was $7.3 million.
Meeting For Clinical Development Guidance Held With FDA. Cadrenal and the FDA held a meeting to discuss plans to conduct clinical trials to support an application for tecarfarin approval. The FDA gave guidance on the design and data requirements. Cadrenal plans to use the information to plan the final study design then submit it to the FDA for review and feedback.
DLH Holdings (DLHC/$4.08 | Price Target: $10) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 Post Call Commentary and Updated Models Rating: OUTPERFORM
Moving Forward. While the path forward has been more challenging than we had anticipated, we believe DLH remains on the right path to strong operating results. We believe the Company’s core competencies are well aligned with the Federal government’s goals.
New Business. Management expects some $1 billion of business to be awarded by the end of the fiscal year, providing a substantial opportunity for DLH to win its fair share and drive organic growth in 2026. Yesterday, the Company announced it had been awarded a five year task order valued at up to $37.7 million to continue delivering scientific research and development, modeling & simulation, artificial intelligence, machine learning, robotic process automation, biomedical engineering, and cloud-enabled big data analytic solutions for the Telemedicine and Advanced Technology Research Center.
Information Services Group (III/$4 | Price Target: $5) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 Jacob Mutchler jmutchler@noblefcm.com | First Look 1Q25 Rating: OUTPERFORM
Q1 Results. Reported Q1 revenue of $59.6 million, slightly over the top end of management’s issued guidance and our estimate of $59.0 million. Net income totaled $1.5 million, or $0.03 per diluted share, an improvement from a loss of $3.4 million, or $0.07 per share, last year. We estimated a net income of $0.78 million or $0.02 per share. Adjusted EBITDA was $7.4 million, near the high end of management’s issued guidance and above our estimate of $6.5 million. Adjusted EPS for Q1 came in at $0.07 per share, up from $0.01 per share last year, and above our estimate of $0.05 per share.
Favorable Developments. Notably, adj. EBITDA increased 68%, and adj. EBITDA margin increased by more than 550 basis points compared to the prior year period. The favorable growth in adj. EBITDA and adj. EBITDA margin are reflective of the Company’s disciplined operating approach and improved business mix. Additionally, we believe the Company is well-positioned to benefit from the uncertain economic environment as more companies look to optimize costs with investments in technology.
InPlay Oil (IPOOF/$4.96 | Price Target: $15) Mark Reichman mreichman@noblefcm.com | (561) 999-2272 Hans Baldau hbaldau@noblefcm.com | Revising Estimates Based on Updated Corporate Guidance Rating: OUTPERFORM
First quarter financial results. InPlay Oil reported a first quarter net loss of C$2.9 million or C$0.18 per share compared to net income of C$1.7 million or C$0.02 per share during the prior year period. This was below our net income estimate of C$4.2 million or C$0.15 per share, primarily due to an unrealized loss on derivative contracts of C$4.6 million and higher-than-expected expenses. Moreover, commodity prices declined slightly during the first quarter, leading to lower revenues of C$38.4 million compared to our estimate of C$40.4 million.
Corporate 2025 guidance. The company generated quarterly production of 9,076 barrels of oil equivalent per day (boe/d), a 5% increase year-over-year and above our expectations of 8,800 boe/d. The company is raising its estimated field production expectations to 21,500 boe/d, a marked increase from 18,750 boe/d, and expects 2025 full year production to be in the range of 16,000 to 16,800 boe/d. Revenue guidance has been adjusted downward to C$46.75 to C$51.75 boe/d from C$56.50 to C$61.50 boe/d. Adjusted funds flow is expected to be between C$124 million and C$133 million, down from $204 million.
Kelly Services (KELYA/$12.53 | Price Target: $27) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 Jacob Mutchler jmutchler@noblefcm.com | First Look 1Q25 Rating: OUTPERFORM
Q1 Results. The Company recorded revenue of $1.16 billion, up 11.5% year over year, in line with our estimate of $1.16 billion. Adj. EBITDA came in at $34.9 million, up 4.8% over the prior year period and modestly lower than our estimate of $36.5 million. Adj. EBITDA margin decreased 20 basis points to 3.0%. Furthermore, Kelly reported net income of $0.16/sh. On an adjusted basis, EPS was $0.39/sh compared to $0.56/sh last year and our estimate of $0.60/sh.
Solid Results. The y-o-y revenue growth of 11.5% was largely driven by the Company’s May 2024 acquisition of Motion Recruitment Partners (MRP). On an organic basis, total revenue was only up 0.2%, which includes a 0.8% decrease in revenue from U.S. federal contractors and a 6.3% increase in Education segment revenue.
Lucky Strike Entertainment (LUCK/$8.31 | Price Target: $17.5) Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 Jacob Mutchler jmutchler@noblefcm.com | Navigating Economic Headwinds Rating: OUTPERFORM
Lackluster Q3 Results. The company reported Q3 revenue of $339.9 million and adj. EBITDA of $117.3 million, both of which were lower than our estimates of $360.0 million and $130 million, respectively, as illustrated in Figure #1 Q3 Results. Notably, the soft results were largely driven by a decrease in corporate events in California and Seattle, and partially offset by high single digit increase in food sales and stable retail and league business. While Q3 results were lackluster, we believe the company will gain momentum heading into the summer.
Favorable developments. The company’s Summer Season Pass program, aimed at driving retail traffic, increased sales by more than 200% compared with this time last year. Additionally, the company is heading into summer with three water parks and seven family entertainment centers that were acquired this year. We believe the company is well positioned to benefit from its enhanced scale, in spite of the economic uncertainty.
ONE Group Hospitality (STKS/$3.52 | Price Target: $5) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 A Solid Start to 2025 Rating: OUTPERFORM
A Solid Start. ONE Group reported results modestly above our expectations for 1Q25. The accomplishments were driven by another quarter of sequential improvement in comparable sales trends, positive comparable sales at the Benihana restaurants, and strong positive transaction growth of 4.1% at the flagship STK brand.
1Q25 Results. ONE Group reported revenue of $211.1 million, up nearly 150% y-o-y, driven by the May 2024 Benihana acquisition. Same Store Sales declined 3.2%, compared to guidance of a negative 3-4%. Adjusted EBITDA was $25.2 million, up from $7.6 million. Adjusted EPS came in at $0.14, compared to an adjusted loss of $0.02/sh last year.
Saga Communications (SGA/$11.75 | Price Target: $18) Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 Jacob Mutchler jmutchler@noblefcm.com | Unique Digital Strategy Gains Traction Rating: OUTPERFORM
Q1 Results. The company reported Q1 revenue of $24.2 million and an adj. EBITDA loss of $0.5 million, both of which declined over the prior year period, but were modestly better than our estimates of $23.0 million and a loss of $1.1 million, respectively, as illustrated in Figure #1 Q1 Results. Notably, the company is focused on its blended digital growth strategy and improving profitability. We believe the company’s strategic actions are a step in the right direction for returning toward revenue and adj. EBITDA growth.
Digital growth strategy. The company’s blended growth strategy combines radio and digital advertising to provide a consistent message to customers on both mediums and to drive radio listeners to digital platforms. Notably, year to date, the company has generated digital revenue of $5.3 million, surpassing the company’s $5.0 million generated for full year 2024.
Townsquare Media (TSQ/$7.1 | Price Target: $21) Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 Jacob Mutchler jmutchler@noblefcm.com | Showing The Rest How Its Done Rating: OUTPERFORM
Solid first quarter results. Total company revenues were down a modest 1% to $98.7 million, in line with our $98.5 million estimate. Digital revenues increased 6.4%, nearly completely offsetting the weakness in legacy broadcast. Notably, Digital revenue in the quarter represented 57% of total revenue, but, more importantly, 62% of total company adj. EBITDA. Q1 adj. EBITDA of $18.1 million was better than our $17.0 million estimate.
Ignite continues to be on fire. Ignite, the company’s programmatic/advertising solutions business, increased revenues an attractive 7.6% in the quarter. Management indicated that the growth of Ignite will be enhanced by its white label initiative, which is expected to account for $10 million in revenue in 2025 and is expected to grow to $50 million in the next 3 to 5 years and with a 20% operating margin.
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Thursday, May 8, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
Commercial Vehicle Group (CVGI)/OUTPERFORM – Post Call Comments Conduent (CNDT)/OUTPERFORM – Posts Solid Q1 Results CoreCivic, Inc. (CXW)/OUTPERFORM – Exceeds 1Q25 Expectations; Raises Full Year Guidance DLH Holdings (DLHC)/OUTPERFORM – First Look into 2Q25 Nicola Mining Inc. (HUSIF)/OUTPERFORM – Multiple Avenues for Value Creation Supported by Operational Cash Flow NN (NNBR)/OUTPERFORM – First Look at the First Quarter of 2025 The GEO Group (GEO)/OUTPERFORM – 1Q25 Results Lag Estimates; but Growth Story Remains Intact The ODP Corporation (ODP)/OUTPERFORM – A Step In The Right Direction
Commercial Vehicle Group (CVGI/$1.03 | Price Target: $4) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 Hans Baldau hbaldau@noblefcm.com | Post Call Comments Rating: OUTPERFORM
Promising Signs. Management highlighted the success of the Company’s ongoing efforts to improve cash flow and pay down debt. Compared to Q4 2024, Q1 2025 improved across several important financial metrics, resulting in increased profitability and margin growth due to operational efficiencies from the lower cost structure.
Reorganization. This quarter, the company launched its new segment structure: Global Seating, Global Electrical Systems, and Trim Systems and Components. The revised structure aims to better connect with the end market customer and sharpen the Company’s focus on the business units.
Conduent (CNDT/$1.98 | Price Target: $7) Patrick McCann, CFA pmccann@noblefcm.com | (314) 724-6266 Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 Posts Solid Q1 Results Rating: OUTPERFORM
Solid results. The company reported Q1 revenue of $751 million, slightly below our estimate of $767 million, illustrated in Figure #1 CNDT Q1 Results. Quarterly adj. EBITDA of $37 million was significantly higher than our estimate of $14 million, driven by better-than-expected operating cost reductions as the company works to remove stranded costs from its 2024 divestitures.
New business signings. During Q1, new business annual contract values (ACV) increased to $109 million, up 13.5% from $96 million in the prior year period. The total contract value (TCV) of the Q1 new business wins was $280 million, up an impressive 95.8%, year-over-year, indicating that management’s plan to return the organization to organic revenue growth is off to a good start, following a year that was more squarely focused on divestitures and debt reduction.
CoreCivic, Inc. (CXW/$22.6 | Price Target: $25) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 Exceeds 1Q25 Expectations; Raises Full Year Guidance Rating: OUTPERFORM
Exceeds Expectations. Driven by an increase in occupancy to 77%, increased bed utilization, and cost management, CoreCivic exceeded internal expectations as well as our projections. Revenue was $488.6 million, better than our $480.1 million estimate. Adjusted EBITDA was $81 million compared to our $69.1 million estimate. FFO was $0.45/sh versus our $0.35/sh estimate, and EPS was $0.23 compared to our estimate of $0.12. In 1Q24, CoreCivic reported revenue of $500.7 million, adjusted EBITDA of $89.5 million, EPS of $0.08, and adjusted EPS of $0.25. The previous year benefited from contracts that were eventually lost during the year.
More Business. In addition to the 2,400 bed Dilley facility, CoreCivic has received letter agreements from ICE for the potential activation of the 1,033-bed Midwest Regional Reception Center in Leavenworth, Kansas and at the 2,560-bed California City Immigration Processing Center in California City, California. Management anticipates additional contracting activity as 2025 progresses.
DLH Holdings (DLHC/$4.05 | Price Target: $15) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 First Look into 2Q25 Rating: OUTPERFORM
Tempered Results. DLH reported fiscal second quarter 2025 results in-line with our projections. Financial results continue to be negatively impacted by small business set asides and the run off of acquired small business revenue. Despite these headwinds, DLH’s core services revenue remained strong as the Company delivered cutting-edge solutions in support of customers’ mission-critical work.
2Q25 Results. Revenue declined 11.7% to $89.2 million in 2Q25, driven by small business conversions, but was in-line with our $90 million projection. DLH’s adjusted EBITDA totaled $9.4 million, down from $10.2 million in 2Q24. We were at $9.75 million. Net income was $0.9 million, or $0.06/sh, compared to $1.6 million, or $0.12/sh, last year and our estimate of $1.0 million, or $0.07/sh.
Nicola Mining Inc. (HUSIF/$0.26 | Price Target: $0.5) Mark Reichman mreichman@noblefcm.com | (561) 999-2272 Multiple Avenues for Value Creation Supported by Operational Cash Flow Rating: OUTPERFORM
Initiating coverage with an Outperform rating. Nicola Mining is a unique junior exploration company because it offers discovery potential through its ownership of its flagship New Craigmont Copper Project, ownership of the Treasure Mountain high-grade silver-lead-zinc mine, a 75% economic interest in the Dominion Creek gold project, along with 100% ownership of the only mill permitted to receive and process material from throughout British Columbia. The company’s Merritt Mill, along with a sand/gravel pit and rock quarry, generates cash flow to support Nicola’s operations and exploration programs, which minimizes the need for dilutive equity issuance.
New Craigmont Copper Project. New Craigmont is in the Quesnel Trough, one of Canada’s most prolific copper belts, and is surrounded by past and present producing copper mines and is adjacent to Teck Resources’ Highland Valley Copper Mine, the largest copper mine in Canada. New Craigmont derives its name from the historic Craigmont open pit and underground mine that operated on the property from 1961 to 1982. The Craigmont mine produced over 36.75 million tons of ore with an average grade of 1.28% copper, yielding 900 million pounds of copper. The mine ceased operations in 1982 due to low copper prices.
NN (NNBR/$1.83 | Price Target: $6) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 Hans Baldau hbaldau@noblefcm.com | First Look at the First Quarter of 2025 Rating: OUTPERFORM
Commercial Traction Building. NN added $16.4 million of new business in the first quarter. The Company is well on pace to hit the lower end of its $60 to $70 million full-year target. NN continues to see positive traction in targeted markets, including medical, high-value automotive, and electrical components. Additionally, the Company’s commercial pipeline is strong at over $740 million.
Mixed Financial Start Amidst Transition. First quarter net sales came in at $105.7 million, compared to $121.2 million a year ago, with the decline primarily reflecting the Lubbock sale and rationalized business lines. On a pro forma basis, revenue was down just 1.3% year-over-year. Power Solutions declined to $43.5 million from $48.2 million in 2024 due to the sale of Lubbock. Mobile Solutions revenue fell to $62.2 million compared to $73.1 million during the same prior year period, due to the closing of the Juarez plant. Adjusted EBITDA was $10.6 million, slightly lower than last year’s $11.3 million and lower than our $11.6 million estimate. Adjusted EPS loss for the quarter improved year-over-year to $0.03 from a loss of $0.08.
The GEO Group (GEO/$27.32 | Price Target: $35) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 1Q25 Results Lag Estimates; but Growth Story Remains Intact Rating: OUTPERFORM
1Q25 Results. Revenue of $604.9 million, compared to $605.7 million in 1Q24 and our $608 million estimate. Adjusted EBITDA was $99.8 million, down from $117.6 million in 1Q24 and our $114 million estimate. GEO reported net income of $19.6 million, or EPS of $0.14, compared to $22.7 million, or $0.14/sh, in the same period last year.
Ready To Go. GEO remains poised to assist the Federal government in its immigration policies. We have previously discussed a number of new contracts for the Company, and we anticipate additional awards over the remainder of 2025.
The ODP Corporation (ODP/$13.79 | Price Target: $35) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 Jacob Mutchler jmutchler@noblefcm.com | A Step In The Right Direction Rating: OUTPERFORM
Q1 Results. Sales for the first quarter were $1.699 billion compared to $1.869 billion last year but were above our expectations of $1.625 billion. Net loss totaled $29 million, or a loss of $0.97/sh, compared to a net income of $15 million, or $0.40/sh, in the prior year. Adjusted EPS was $1.06, which surpassed our estimate of $0.58/sh, but was lower than $1.31 last year. Adjusted EBITDA of $76 million beat our estimate of $59 million and decreased from $91 million last year.
Favorable Developments. The initial hospitality partnership covers approximately 15,000 potential customer locations within a national hotel management group and is expected to provide a foundation for long-term growth in the segment and adjacent industries. Notably, the company is building inventory and hiring experienced sales personnel to support growth. We believe its actions will drive meaningful growth in the hospitality segment, with meaningful contributions in the second half of 2025.
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Wednesday, May 7, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
Commercial Vehicle Group (CVGI)/OUTPERFORM – First Look at 1Q25 Direct Digital Holdings (DRCT)/MARKET PERFORM – Tackling Its Challenges FreightCar America (RAIL)/OUTPERFORM – First Quarter Results Exceeded Our Estimates Great Lakes Dredge & Dock (GLDD)/OUTPERFORM – An Exceptional Quarter Snail (SNAL)/OUTPERFORM – Strategic Initiatives Gain Traction
Commercial Vehicle Group (CVGI/$0.9 | Price Target: $4) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 Hans Baldau hbaldau@noblefcm.com | First Look at 1Q25 Rating: OUTPERFORM
Performance Continues to Struggle. First quarter revenue declined 12.7% to $169.8 million from $194.6 million during the same prior year period. The revenue outperformed our estimate of $160.0 million. Operating income and adjusted operating income of $1.4 million and $2.1 million, respectively, decreased by $3.1 million and $4.2 million. Net loss totaled $3.1 million, or $0.09/share, and adjusted net loss totaled $2.6 million, or $0.08/share. Adjusted EBITDA declined to $5.8 million from $9.7 million.
Continued Headwinds. 2025 continues the trends of last year, with challenging global construction and agricultural end markets and lower customer demand across all segments. Furthermore, the recent policy changes and subsequent economic environment have temporarily driven further market confusion. ACT Research projects 2025 North American Class 8 truck production levels to be around 255,000 units compared to 333,372 in 2024, while the Construction and Agriculture markets are projected to be down 5-15% in 2025.
Direct Digital Holdings (DRCT/$0.88) Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 Jacob Mutchler jmutchler@noblefcm.com | Tackling Its Challenges Rating: MARKET PERFORM
Mixed Q1 results. The company reported Q1 revenue of $8.2 million, below our estimate of $10.5 million, and adj. EBITDA loss of $3.0 million, which was in line with our estimate of a loss of $3.1 million. Notably, the variance in revenue was attributed to softness in the company’s sell-side business, which is still recovering from the defamatory article that was released in 2024. Sell-side revenue trends improved from Q4 when taking into account the seasonality strong quarter and influx of $700,000 in Political advertising.
Segment results. The company reported Q1 Buy-side revenue of $6.1 million, an increase of 6.1% over the prior year period and in line with our estimate of $6.5 million. While Sell-side revenue of $2.0 million was lower than our $4.0 million estimate, the segment should improve volume in the second half of the year, which should provide a meaningful step up in revenue.
FreightCar America (RAIL/$6.81 | Price Target: $13.5) Mark Reichman mreichman@noblefcm.com | (561) 999-2272 First Quarter Results Exceeded Our Estimates Rating: OUTPERFORM
First quarter financial results. FreightCar America reported net income of $1.604 million or $0.05 per share compared to our estimate of $1.223 million or $0.03 per share. The variances to our estimates were largely revenue and margin driven. As expected, revenue and rail car deliveries declined to $96.3 million and 710, respectively, compared to $161.1 million and 1,223 during the first quarter of 2024. Our estimates were $82.5 million and 700. During the quarter, a portion of RAIL’s railcar production capacity was utilized for custom fabrications by its Aftermarket segment. Management expected lower deliveries to be reflected in first quarter revenues. Gross profit and margin improved to $14.4 million and 14.9%, respectively, compared to $11.4 million and 7.1% during the prior year period. Adjusted EBITDA increased to $7.3 million compared to $6.1 million during the first quarter of 2024. RAIL generated free cash flow of $12.5 million and ended the quarter with $54.1 million in cash.
No Change to 2025 corporate guidance. Railcar deliveries are expected to be in the range of 4,500 to 4,900, revenue is expected to be in the range of $530 million to $595 million, and adjusted EBITDA is expected to be in the range of $43 to $49 million. Compared to 2024, railcar deliveries, revenue, and adjusted EBITDA are expected to increase 7.7%, 0.6%, and 7.0%, respectively, at the midpoints of guidance.
Great Lakes Dredge & Dock (GLDD/$10 | Price Target: $14) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 Hans Baldau hbaldau@noblefcm.com | An Exceptional Quarter Rating: OUTPERFORM
Exceptional Quarter. Driven by strong project performance and high utilization, as all active dredges were operational, Great Lakes generated exceptional operating results in the quarter, significantly exceeding our, and consensus, estimates. While, planned drydockings will impact future quarters, the $1+ billion backlog and strong operating environment bode well for the Company.
1Q25 Results. Revenue of $242.9 million in 1Q25 was up 22.3% from $198.7 million in 1Q24, and above our $215.5 million estimate. Gross margin improved to 28.6% from 22.9% last year and our 21.1% estimate. Adjusted EBITDA was $60.1 million versus $42.9 million in 1Q24 and our $39.5 million estimate. Net income for 1Q25 totaled $33.4 million, or $0.49/sh, up from $21.0 million and $0.31/sh last year. We had an estimated net income of $17 million or $0.25/sh.
Snail (SNAL/$0.98 | Price Target: $4) Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 Jacob Mutchler jmutchler@noblefcm.com | Strategic Initiatives Gain Traction Rating: OUTPERFORM
Favorable content updates. The company recently announced favorable developments that highlight the execution of its strategic initiatives to diversify revenue and drive player engagement. Notably, in April, the company released two new titles under its independent publishing label, Wandering Wizard, and provided new content in Ark: Survival Ascended (ASA) and Bellwright.
Driving player engagement. In April, the company released Eggcellent Adventure on ASA, an Easter themed seasonal event, and launched the Extinction map on Ark: Ultimate Mobile Edition. As a reminder, ARK: Ultimate Mobile Edition was released in December and gained over 2 million users during the month. In our view, the new content releases are illustrative of its strategic initiatives to enhance player engagement.
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Tuesday, May 6, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
Aurania Resources (AUIAF)/OUTPERFORM – Aurania Closes Final Tranche of Private Placement Financing FreightCar America (RAIL)/OUTPERFORM – RAIL Exceeds Our First Quarter Expectations; Investor Call at 11:00 am ET V2X (VVX)/OUTPERFORM – Solid 1Q25, Expanding Opportunities
Aurania Resources (AUIAF/$0.18 | Price Target: $0.5) Mark Reichman mreichman@noblefcm.com | (561) 999-2272 Aurania Closes Final Tranche of Private Placement Financing Rating: OUTPERFORM
Private placement financing. Aurania Resources closed the second and final tranche of its non-brokered private placement financing. A total of 2,569,022 units of the company were sold under the second tranche at a price of C$0.30 per unit. Including the first tranche which closed on April 17, Aurania issued 5,751,921 units for gross proceeds of C$1,725,577. Net proceeds will be used to fund general working capital needs and may be used to pay mineral concession fees in Ecuador.
Terms of the offering. Each unit is composed 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$0.55 for a period of 24 months following the closing of the date of issuance.
FreightCar America (RAIL/$6.25 | Price Target: $13.5) Mark Reichman mreichman@noblefcm.com | (561) 999-2272 RAIL Exceeds Our First Quarter Expectations; Investor Call at 11:00 am ET Rating: OUTPERFORM
First quarter financial results. FreightCar America earned adjusted net income of $1.604 million or $0.05 per share compared to our estimate of $1.223 million or $0.03 per share. The variance to our estimates were largely revenue and margin driven. As expected, revenue and rail car deliveries declined to $96.3 million and 710, respectively, compared to $161.1 million and 1,223 during the first quarter of 2023. Our estimates were $82.5 million and 700. During the quarter, a portion of RAIL’s railcar production capacity was utilized to build spare parts for its Aftermarket segment. Management expected lower deliveries to be reflected in first quarter revenues. Gross profit and margin improved to $14.4 million and 14.9%, respectively, compared to $11.4 million and 7.1% during the prior year period. Adjusted EBITDA increased to $7.3 million compared to $6.1 million during the first quarter of 2023. RAIL generated free cash flow of $12.5 million and ended the quarter with $54.1 million in cash.
Favorable outlook. First quarter sales activity was strong with 1,250 railcars ordered. With a backlog of 3,337 units valued at $318 million, we expect deliveries to accelerate throughout the year.
V2X (VVX/$48.92 | Price Target: $72) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 Hans Baldau hbaldau@noblefcm.com | Solid 1Q25, Expanding Opportunities Rating: OUTPERFORM
Strategy Working. V2X’s unique full-lifecycle, mission-driven strategy is working, resulting in not only an expanded opportunity set but significantly larger individual opportunities than in the past. The Company’s focus on enhancing mission effectiveness, extending asset utilization, reducing costs, and improving security and mission outcomes dovetails nicely with the focus of the DoD and the current Administration.
1Q25 Results. Revenue came in at $1.015 billion compared to $1.01 billion in 1Q24 and our $1.04 billion estimate, with 10% y-o-y growth in Indopacom the driver. Adjusted EBITDA was $67 million, down slightly from $69 million last year and in-line with our estimate. Adjusted EPS was $0.98, up from $0.90 last year and our $0.89 estimate.
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Monday, May 5, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
ACCO Brands (ACCO)/OUTPERFORM – Post Call Commentary Vince Holding Corp. (VNCE)/MARKET PERFORM – Near Term Tariff Turbulence Likely
ACCO Brands (ACCO/$3.67 | Price Target: $12) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 Post Call Commentary Rating: OUTPERFORM
Control What Can Be Controlled. Given the uncertain economic situation, management is focused on what they can control. The prime examples being the multi-year cost out program and the effort to move manufacturing for U.S. based consumption to the lowest cost geographical areas possible. Management also continues to push forward its new product program to capture additional sales.
Cost Reduction Program. ACCO’s $100 million cost reduction program remains on track, with SG&A costs down y-o-y primarily due to the program. Management estimates some $7 million of savings during 1Q25, and the Company remains on track to deliver $40 million of savings in 2025. This will help alleviate some of the pressure from tariff uncertainty.
Vince Holding Corp. (VNCE/$2.25) Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 Jacob Mutchler jmutchler@noblefcm.com | Near Term Tariff Turbulence Likely Rating: MARKET PERFORM
Favorable Fourth Quarter Results. Fourth quarter total company revenues increased an attractive 6.2% to $79.95 million, well above our $71.5 million estimate, primarily due to strong growth in its Wholesale business. Due to price integrity, gross margins substantially improved 470 basis points to 50.1%. As a result, adj. EBITDA in the latest quarter was $3.58 million, better than our $1.5 million estimate.
Adjusting estimates lower. Management guided fiscal first quarter revenues to be down 5%, with gross margins likely down 500 basis points. Notably, the first quarter guidance did not reflect the current U.S. trade policy. While the full extent of the company’s tariff mitigation plans are fluid, we believe that there will be some adverse revenue and cost of goods impact.
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Friday, May 2, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
ACCO Brands (ACCO)/OUTPERFORM – Solid 1Q25; But Uncertainties Limit Visibility Beyond 2Q25 Cumulus Media (CMLS)/MARKET PERFORM – Skating On Thin Ice GeoVax Labs (GOVX)/OUTPERFORM – 1Q25 Reported With Pipeline Strategy Updates Xcel Brands (XELB)/OUTPERFORM – Keeping Its Focus On The Bullseye
ACCO Brands (ACCO/$3.86 | Price Target: $12) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 Solid 1Q25; But Uncertainties Limit Visibility Beyond 2Q25 Rating: OUTPERFORM
Solid 1Q25. In the historically smallest quarter, ACCO reported revenue in-line with guidance while exceeding adjusted EPS guidance during the quarter. However, increased market uncertainties driven by global trade dynamics is resulting in limited visibility beyond 2Q25. Management’s strategic management of its supplier base and ability to accelerate supply chain moves should lessen the impact of tariffs.
1Q25 Results. Revenue of $317.4 million was within management’s $315-$325 million guidance. We were at $315 million. Revenue was down 11.6% y-o-y, with comp sales off 8.3%. Adverse forex reduced revenue by 3.3%. The revenue decline was driven by softer global demand for certain office products and gaming accessories, partially offset by growth in computer accessories. Gross margin improved 60bp y-o-y to 31.4%.
Q1 revenue weaker than expected. Total company revenues declined 6.4% to $187.3 million, weaker than our 4.8% decline and $190.4 million estimates, respectively. Due to previous cost reductions, the company achieved our adj. EBITDA estimate, $3.5 million versus our estimate of $3.4 million.
Digital Marketing Services (DMS) revenue surges. DMS revenues, which account for roughly 30% of the digital segment, increased a strong 30%. Management indicated that DMS Q2 revenue pacings have accelerated to 35% growth. Notably, the digital segment accounted for 20% of total company revenues.
First Quarter Included Contract Revenues. GeoVax reported a 1Q25 loss of $5.4 million or $(0.45) per share, a smaller loss than we had expected. The quarter included $1.6 million in Contract Revenue from the BARDA contract in preparation for the Phase 2 trial. Since the contract was cancelled on April 11, 2025, the 2Q25 results will include some final contract work. Cash on March 31, 2025, was $7.4 million.
CM04S1 Continues Development With Focus On Immunocompromised Patients. The current focus of CM04S1 development is in immunocompromised patients, a population estimated at 40 million patients in the US alone. Data from the Phase 1 and Phase 2 clinical trials for CM04S1 was presented at the 25th World Vaccine Congress. The two Phase 2 trials in chronic lymphocytic leukemia and stem cell transplants continue to enroll patients, while the Phase 2 Healthy Adult Booster trial is expected to report data during 2Q25.
Xcel Brands (XELB/$2.43 | Price Target: $15) Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 Jacob Mutchler jmutchler@noblefcm.com | Keeping Its Focus On The Bullseye Rating: OUTPERFORM
Collaboration with a UTG. United Trademark Group (UTG) made a $9 million strategic investment in Xcel Brands and announced a strategic partnership. The investment bolstered the company’s balance sheet and provided more favorable debt covenant terms. In addition, UTG has performance warrants, exercisable over 7 years, that could bring in an additional $13 million if exercised.
Increased financial flexibility. United Trademark Group (UTG) took a $9 million strategic investment in the form of a Paid In Kind (PIK) loan. UTG was also issued performance based warrants that could add $13 million, if exercised. We believe that the funds will be used to support the growth of recently announced brands and provide financial flexibility to acquire or develop additional brands.
Private placement financing. Aurania recently closed the first tranche of its previously announced non-brokered private placement financing of up to 5,000,000 units at a price of C$0.30 per unit for gross proceeds of up to C$1,500,000. An aggregate of 3,182,899 units were sold under the first tranche for gross proceeds of C$954,869.70. Dr. Keith Barron, Chairman, President, and CEO, acquired 1,000,000 units under the offering and owns or exercises control over 47,672,635 common shares, 1,752,992 options, and 12,399,135 warrants representing 44.41% and 50.88% of the company’s issued and outstanding common shares on a non-diluted and partially diluted basis, respectively. Aurania expects to close the final tranche of its non-brokered private placement on or around May 5.
Loan agreement. Dr. Keith Barron has also agreed to provide a loan of up to US$2,094,500 to the company. The loan will be advanced from time to time in mutually agreed upon principal amounts. The loan is unsecured and bears interest at 2% per annum. The proceeds are expected to be used to fund Aurania’s remaining 2024 mineral concession fees in Ecuador, which are due on May 1.
Kratos Defense & Security (KTOS/$33.78 | Price Target: $38) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 Some Favorable Tailwinds? Rating: OUTPERFORM
A Trillion Dollard Defense Budget? House Republicans have released legislation that would increase Pentagon spending by $150 billion. The proposal was approved by the House Armed Services Committee and, when combined with the already approved government fiscal year 2025 $886 billion defense budget, the added dollars would bring defense spending to more than $1 trillion for the first time. A significant portion of the recent budget increases target areas in Kratos’ wheelhouse, in our opinion, which could provide additional upside to the Company.
Missile Defense. Approximately $25 billion of the $150 billion proposed increase would be earmarked for the Golden Dome missile defense initiative. Recall, Golden Dome would be a shield intended to protect the continental U.S. against advanced missiles. Golden Dome is another project that aligns with Kratos’ capabilities, in our view.
Fiscal Year 2025 Reported. Nutriband reported its financial results for FY2025, ended January 31, 2025, with a 4Q25 loss of $5.5 million or ($0.50) per share and a loss of $10.5 million or $(0.99) per share. Preparations for the abuse-deterrence clinical testing continue, with an NDA expected toward 4Q25 or early 2026. As of January 31, 2025, the cash balance was $4.3 million.
Revenue For The Pocono Pharmaceutical Division Met Expectations. The Pocono Pharmaceutical division revenue for FY2025 was $2.1 million, with 4Q25 consistent with previous quarters. Gross margin improved in 4Q25 to 45% of sales, the highest level of the year. Nutriband has extended its contract manufacturing collaboration with KT tape, the kinesiology tape company, with modest growth in our projections for FY2026.
V2X (VVX/$49.76 | Price Target: $72) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 Some More Awards Rating: OUTPERFORM
New Awards. V2X continues to win new awards, and if current Defense budget proposals resulting in the first $1 trillion budget for fiscal year 2025 move to fruition, the award environment should remain target rich for the Company
Navy Contract. Earlier this week, the Company was awarded a $103 million contract by the U.S. Navy for Contractor Logistics Support (CLS) maintenance of C-26 aircraft. Under this contract, V2X will continue providing comprehensive CLS support, including aircraft engineering, upgrades, maintenance, and modifications. The award reinforces V2X’s role as the best-value provider for this critical mission, in our view.
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Wednesday, April 30, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
Alliance Resource Partners (ARLP)/OUTPERFORM – First Quarter Results Above Our Estimates; Stronger Second Half Expected Perfect (PERF)/OUTPERFORM – Q1 Revenue Growth Demonstrates Resilience Travelzoo (TZOO)/OUTPERFORM – Off To A Solid Start
Alliance Resource Partners (ARLP/$27.07 | Price Target: $31) Mark Reichman mreichman@noblefcm.com | (561) 999-2272 First Quarter Results Above Our Estimates; Stronger Second Half Expected Rating: OUTPERFORM
First quarter financial results. Alliance reported first quarter adjusted EBITDA and earnings per unit (EPU) of $159.9 million and $0.57, respectively, compared to $238.4 million and $1.21 during the prior year period. We had projected EBITDA and EPU of $143.8 million and $0.48. While total revenue of $540.5 million was just shy of our $541.1 million estimate, we underestimated coal sales and overstated transportation revenue. Consequently, transportation expense was also overstated. Total operating expenses were $446.2 million compared to our $462.3 million forecast.
Corporate outlook for 2025 and 2026. Management’s guidance for 2025 was little changed, except for increasing the range for total coal sales tonnage, increasing expense as a percentage of oil & gas royalty revenue, depreciation expense, and lowering net interest expense expectations. For 2026, management expects the average coal sales price per ton to trend lower. Due to higher-priced, multi-contracts rolling off, the average sales price per ton could be 4% to 5% below the midpoint of ARLP’s 2025 guidance. We think planned 2025 long wall moves and actions to improve productivity and cost effectiveness could help offset lower prices.
Perfect (PERF/$1.92 | Price Target: $5) Patrick McCann, CFA pmccann@noblefcm.com | (314) 724-6266 Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 Q1 Revenue Growth Demonstrates Resilience Rating: OUTPERFORM
Solid Q1 results. The company reported Q1 revenue growth of 13.4% year over year to $16.0 million, roughly in line with our estimate of $16.2 million. Adj. EBITDA of $0.9 million was better than our estimate of $0.4 million.
B2C momentum. The strong quarterly revenue growth was driven by the company’s B2C segment. Importantly, the company is in the midst of optimizing pricing for its popular beauty app subscription and recently introduced a higher margin premium subscription plan. We believe the B2C segment is poised for continued revenue growth throughout 2025.
Travelzoo (TZOO/$16.12 | Price Target: $28) Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 Jacob Mutchler jmutchler@noblefcm.com | Off To A Solid Start Rating: OUTPERFORM
Reports solid Q1 results. Q1 revenues accelerated, up 5.3%, from the 2.2% decline in the fourth quarter, reflecting the early adoption of the company’s transformative migration toward a subscription model. Results were in line with expectations, with adj. EBITDA of $4.4 million and positive free cash flow generation of $3.3 million.
Revenues expected to accelerate. Management indicated that second quarter revenue growth is expected to accelerate, double the rate of the first quarter’s 5.3%. The enhanced revenue growth reflects the success of converting legacy subscribers to a paid subscription. The paid subscription began in the first quarter of 2025, with subscription revenues recognized pro-ratably over the subscription period. As such, we expect that revenue growth will accelerate as it adds subscriptions throughout the year.
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Tuesday, April 29, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
FAT Brands (FAT)/OUTPERFORM – April News Roundup
FAT Brands (FAT/$2.69 | Price Target: $15) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 April News Roundup Rating: OUTPERFORM
Fazoli’s Securitization. FAT Brands amended the Fazoli’s whole business securitization credit facility. The amendments extended the repayment and call dates from January 2025 to July 2026 and from July 2023 to October 2025, respectively, while also relaxing certain covenants, providing FAT greater operational flexibility. The new agreement also permits FAT to sell off the corporate-owned Fazoli locations.
France Growth. Also, during the month, FAT announced a new partnership to expand Fatburger across France, with the opening of 30 units over the next three years, with five units expected to be opened in 2026. FAT’s partner has a vast amount of experience within the restaurant space and successfully operates their own restaurant franchise in the country.
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Noble Capital Markets Research Report Monday, April 28, 2025
MustGrow Biologics Corp. (MGROF/$0.79) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 Reports 4Q25 Results Rating: MARKET PERFORM
4Q25 Results. Revenue totaled $118.8 million, reflecting initial sales of TerraSante product. We were at $25,000. Net loss totaled $1.2 million, or a loss of $0.02/sh, in line with our estimate. For the full year, MustGrow reported revenue of $398,018 and a net loss of $4.9 Million, or a loss of $0.09/sh, also inline with our expectations.
Capital Raise. In mid-January, MustGrow raised $2.585 million of capital through the sale of convertible debentures. Combined with the $3 million of cash at year-end, we believe the Company has sufficient liquidity until significant revenue begins, which we expect this year.
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Friday, April 25, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
FreightCar America (RAIL)/OUTPERFORM – Gaining Market Share
FreightCar America (RAIL/$6.45 | Price Target: $13.5) Mark Reichman mreichman@noblefcm.com | (561) 999-2272 Gaining Market Share Rating: OUTPERFORM
Robust first quarter order activity. During the first quarter ending on March 31, FreightCar America received orders for a total of 1,250 railcars valued at approximately $141 million. Based on the Railway Supply Institute’s American Railway Car Institute Committee (ARCI) first quarter 2025 reporting statistics, industry orders totaled 5,085 railcars, while deliveries amounted to 7,810. Freight Car’s orders represented approximately 25% of all new railcars ordered during the quarter and 36% of FreightCar America’s addressable market.
2025 corporate guidance. Railcar deliveries are expected to be in the range of 4,500 to 4,900, revenue is expected to be in the range of $530 million to $595 million, and adjusted EBITDA is expected to be in the range of $43 to $49 million. Our current 2025 estimates include railcar deliveries of 4,700 units, revenue of $562.5 million, and EBITDA of $45.4 million. While first quarter orders of 1,250 was above our estimate of 1,000, our estimate for first quarter deliveries is unchanged.
Plans to delist. The company announced plans to move its stock from the Nasdaq to the OTC market effective May 2nd. Cumulus received a delisting warning a month earlier from Nasdaq for not meeting a $10 million minimum stockholders’ equity requirement. The company determined that will not appeal given the time, effort and cost of to remain on Nasdaq.
Ticker remains CMLS. The company has applied and qualified to list on the OTC Markets’ OTCQB market tier and expects that its shares will trade at the open on May 2 under its current trading symbol CMLS. The company indicated that it plans to continue to file periodic and other required reports with the SEC.
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Wednesday, April 23, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
AZZ (AZZ)/OUTPERFORM – Better Than Expected FY 2025 Financial Results; Strong Start to FY 2026 Direct Digital Holdings (DRCT)/MARKET PERFORM – Taking Measures To Remain Listed ONE Group Hospitality (STKS)/OUTPERFORM – A Leader in Vibe Dining, Initiating Research Coverage
ONE Group Hospitality (STKS/$2.87 | Price Target: $5) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 Hans Baldau hbaldau@noblefcm.com | A Leader in Vibe Dining, Initiating Research Coverage Rating: OUTPERFORM
Initiating Research Coverage. We are initiating research coverage of The ONE Group Hospitality, Inc. (NASDAQ:STKS) with an Outperform rating and a $5 price target. The ONE Group is an international restaurant company that develops and operates upscale and polished casual, high-energy restaurants and lounges and provides hospitality management services for hotels, casinos and other high-end venues both in the U.S. and internationally.
A Leader in Vibe Dining. ONE Group is a leader in the “Vibe Dining” subsegment. Vibe Dining is characterized by a quality culinary experience complimented with an engaging social scene, such as DJ’s and dancing. While not a new theme, Vibe Dining is being pushed by a generation of consumers looking for more than just food for their dollar. As a category, Vibe Dining is projected to continue to grow at above average rates.
AZZ (AZZ/$80.06 | Price Target: $112) Mark Reichman mreichman@noblefcm.com | (561) 999-2272 Better Than Expected FY 2025 Financial Results; Strong Start to FY 2026 Rating: OUTPERFORM
Fourth quarter and full year financial results. For fiscal year (FY) 2025, AZZ reported adjusted net income of $156.8 million or $5.20 per share compared to $132.8 million or $4.53 per share during FY 2024 and our estimate of $155.9 million or $5.17 per share. Compared to FY 2024, sales increased 2.6% to $1.578 billion. AZZ generated a 24.3% gross margin as a percentage of sales compared to 23.6% during the prior year. Adjusted EBITDA increased 4.3% to $347.9 million, representing 22.0% of sales compared to 21.7% of sales in FY 2024. Adjusted net income and EPS during the fourth quarter of FY 2025 were $29.6 million and $0.98, respectively, compared to our estimates of $28.8 million and $0.95 per share.
Updating estimates. We project FY 2026 revenue, adjusted EBITDA, and adjusted EPS of $1.676 billion, $381.7 million, and $5.83 respectively. Our FY 2026 estimates reflect a gross margin of $408.7 million or 24.4% of sales. We have assumed the company accelerates debt repayment to lower interest expense to offset the reduction of equity in earnings of unconsolidated subsidiaries caused by the AVAIL JV’s sale of its Electric Products business.
Direct Digital Holdings (DRCT/$0.55) Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 Jacob Mutchler jmutchler@noblefcm.com | Taking Measures To Remain Listed Rating: MARKET PERFORM
Listing requirements not met. The company initially received a notification that it was not in compliance with the Nasdaq’s minimum stockholder equity requirement in October 2024. The company subsequently submitted a plan to regain compliance in February 2025 and was granted an extension until April 16, 2025. However, on April 16, the company had not regained compliance and received a letter of determination from Nasdaq on April 17.
Letter of determination. The letter of determination stated the company did not meet the terms of its extension, due to a noncomplete capital raise that was laid out in its plan to regain compliance, and ultimately did not meet the stockholders’ equity requirement. We believe that the company is working on capital raising initiatives, which should put the company back in compliance. The Class A Common stock is scheduled to be suspended from trading at market open on April 28. The company has filed for a hearing which should delay the delisting process for at least 35 days.
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Tuesday, April 22, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
AZZ (AZZ)/OUTPERFORM – Adj. Fourth Quarter and Full Year Financial Results Exceed Expectations InPlay Oil (IPOOF)/OUTPERFORM – Share Consolidation, Updating Estimates NN (NNBR)/OUTPERFORM – Solid 1Q25 New Business Wins V2X (VVX)/OUTPERFORM – Some LOGCAP Extensions
AZZ (AZZ/$77.62 | Price Target: $112) Mark Reichman mreichman@noblefcm.com | (561) 999-2272 Adj. Fourth Quarter and Full Year Financial Results Exceed Expectations Rating: OUTPERFORM
Fourth quarter and full year financial results. For fiscal year (FY) 2025, AZZ reported adjusted net income of $156.8 million or $5.20 per share compared to $132.8 million or $4.53 per share during FY 2024 and our estimate of $155.9 million or $5.17 per share. Compared to FY 2024, sales increased 2.6% to $1.578 billion. AZZ generated a 24.3% gross margin as a percentage of sales compared to 23.6% during the prior year. Adjusted EBITDA increased 4.3% to $347.9 million, representing 22.0% of sales compared to 21.7% of sales in FY 2024. Adjusted net income and EPS during the fourth quarter of FY 2025 were $29.6 million and $0.98, respectively, compared to our estimates of $28.8 million and $0.95 per share.
Debt reduction. During FY 2025, AZZ generated operating cash flow of $249.9 million and reduced debt by $110 million. Management expects to accelerate debt repayments with proceeds from the AVAIL transaction which is expected to close in the first quarter of FY 2026. We estimate FY 2026 debt repayments could approach $300 million. At the end of FY 2025, AZZ’s net leverage was below 2.5x trailing twelve months EBITDA.
Share consolidation. As of April 21, 2025, InPlay Oil shares are trading on a post-consolidation basis, with 27,939,437 common shares outstanding. The terms of the share consolidation were one post-consolidation common share per six pre-consolidation common shares. Fractional shares resulting from the consolidation were rounded down to the nearest whole number.
Updating estimates and price target. We are updating our 2025 estimates to reflect fewer shares outstanding and lower crude oil price estimates. For 2025, we are lowering our oil and gas revenue and earnings per share estimates to C$318.7 million and C$1.34, from C$333.5 million and C$1.46, both adjusted for the share consolidation. Moreover, we have lowered our adjusted funds flow (AFF) to C$149.5 million from C$161.6 million. We are maintaining our production estimate of 18,750 barrels of oil equivalent per day (boe/d) post the Pembina acquisition, which averages 15,816 boe/d for the full-year 2025.
NN (NNBR/$1.71 | Price Target: $6) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 Hans Baldau hbaldau@noblefcm.com | Solid 1Q25 New Business Wins Rating: OUTPERFORM
1Q25 New Business Wins. NN achieved 1Q25 new business wins of $16.4 million, a solid performance given the state of the economy, in our view. In the same period last year, new business wins totaled $17.2 million. NN is well on its way to meeting its 2025 goal of $65 million in new business wins.
Diversified Backlog and Pipeline. New business wins for the quarter were focused on electrical and power products, medical, non-automotive industrial products, and automotive products. Roughly half of the nearly $700 million pipeline is in these targeted areas.
V2X (VVX/$46.83 | Price Target: $72) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 Hans Baldau hbaldau@noblefcm.com | Some LOGCAP Extensions Rating: OUTPERFORM
LOGCAP Extensions. V2X has been notified by the U.S. Army that it will extend the current period of performance (PoP) for the various task orders under the LOGCAP V ID/IQ contract to support U.S. military operations worldwide. The Company’s Kuwait Task Order (TO), Iraq Task Order, and INDOPACOM Task Order are scheduled to extend through June 2030. Given the size of LOGCAP V, we view this as a significant positive for the Company.
SAM.gov. According to the filing on SAM.gov, the Army sought to increase the overall PoP for the current LOGCAP performance task orders (PTOs) to match the PoPs of the aligned Set the Theater (STT) task orders. The LOGCAP STT TOs were awarded as a base year plus nine one-year option periods.
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Monday, April 21, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
Aurania Resources (AUIAF)/OUTPERFORM – First Tranche of Private Placement Financing Closed Hemisphere Energy (HMENF)/OUTPERFORM – 2024 Financial Results In line with Expectations, 2025 Outlook
Aurania Resources (AUIAF/$0.2 | Price Target: $0.55) Mark Reichman mreichman@noblefcm.com | (561) 999-2272 First Tranche of Private Placement Financing Closed Rating: OUTPERFORM
Private placement financing. Aurania Resources Ltd. closed the first tranche of its previously announced non-brokered private placement financing of up to 5,000,000 units at a price of C$0.30 per unit for gross proceeds of up to C$1,500,000. An aggregate of 3,182,899 units were sold under the first tranche for gross proceeds of C$954,869.70. Dr. Keith Barron, CEO and a director, acquired 1,000,000 units under the offering and owns or exercises control over 47,672,635 common shares, 1,752,992 options, and 12,399,135 warrants representing 44.41% and 50.88% of the company’s issued and outstanding common shares on a non-diluted and partially diluted basis, respectively.
Terms of the offering. Each unit is composed 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$0.55 for a period of 24 months following the closing of the first tranche. To accommodate demand, Aurania may increase the size of the offering by up to 25% and expects to close the remaining tranche(s) on or around April 24.
Hemisphere Energy (HMENF/$1.27 | Price Target: $2.3) Mark Reichman mreichman@noblefcm.com | (561) 999-2272 Hans Baldau hbaldau@noblefcm.com | 2024 Financial Results In line with Expectations, 2025 Outlook Rating: OUTPERFORM
Full-year 2024 financial results. Hemisphere Energy reported full-year net income and earnings per share of C$33.1 million and C$0.33, respectively, slightly above our estimates of C$32.3 million and C$0.32. The variance is mainly due to stronger oil pricing of $79.48, compared to our estimate of $76.31. Year-over-year, oil and natural gas revenue increased ~18% to C$79.7 million from C$67.7 million. This increase was driven by increased production and more robust pricing of 3,436 barrels of oil equivalent per day (boe/d) and $79.48, respectively, compared to 3,125 boe/d and $74.07. Likewise, adjusted funds flow (AFF) increased 16% in 2024 to C$45.8 million from C$39.4 million in 2023. We had forecast AFF of C$45.4 million.
Updating estimates. Based on lower crude oil price estimates, we are lowering our 2025 net income and earnings per share estimates to C$30.3 million and C$0.29, respectively, from C$37.2 million and C$0.37. Additionally, we are decreasing our adjusted funds flow estimate to C$42.9 million from C$50.6 million. We are maintaining our 2025 average daily production estimate of 3,900 boe/d, an increase of ~14% over 2024.
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Thursday, April 17, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
Comstock (LODE)/MARKET PERFORM – Strategic Partnership with RWE Clean Energy NN (NNBR)/OUTPERFORM – Term Loan Refi Completed QuoteMedia Inc. (QMCI)/OUTPERFORM – A Sanguine Outlook For 2025
Comstock (LODE/$2.16) Mark Reichman mreichman@noblefcm.com | (561) 999-2272 Hans Baldau hbaldau@noblefcm.com | Strategic Partnership with RWE Clean Energy Rating: MARKET PERFORM
Partnership with RWE. Comstock Metals entered into a Master Services Agreement with RWE Clean Energy, the U.S. subsidiary of RWE, which operates a renewable energy portfolio of approximately 10 gigawatts. It is the third largest owner and operator of onshore wind, solar, and battery storage in the United States. Comstock Metals will provide RWE with recycling, decommissioning, and logistics services for their U.S. solar installations to ensure a zero-landfill solution for 100% of the recovered solar panel materials.
Industry-scale facility. Comstock Metals has operated a demonstration-scale solar panel recycling facility since 2024. The company generates revenue through service fees for decommissioning, tipping fees for receiving and processing end-of-life solar panels, and offtake sales of high-value recycled materials, including aluminum, copper, glass, and concentrated precious metals. Comstock expects to spend $6 million to build its first large-scale facility in 2025. The project will be commissioned in 2026 and will scale in two phases, with initial capacity of up to 50,000 tons annually by 2026, and then to 100,000 tons annually.
NN (NNBR/$1.63 | Price Target: $6) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 Hans Baldau hbaldau@noblefcm.com | Term Loan Refi Completed Rating: OUTPERFORM
Term Loan Refi. NN announced the successful completion of its term loan refinancing. The new term loan has multiple improved operational features that management expects will enable the Company to improve and grow faster. Combined with the $65 million ABL refinancing announced in January, yesterday’s announcement sets the stage for a new chapter for NN, in our view.
Details. Although we are awaiting an 8-K filing to drill down into all the terms of the new financing, the term loan is $118 million, with a 2030 maturity. There is a $10 million add-on feature for certain borrowing and improved leverage and liquidity covenants. However, the interest rates are slightly higher than the previous term loan. Marathon Asset Management is the new lender.
QuoteMedia Inc. (QMCI/$0.15 | Price Target: $0.2) Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 Jacob Mutchler jmutchler@noblefcm.com | A Sanguine Outlook For 2025 Rating: OUTPERFORM
2024 in the rearview mirror. The company reported Q4 revenue of $4.7 million and adj. EBITDA of $0.2 million, both of which were largely in line with our estimates of $4.6 million and $0.3 million, respectively. Notably, both revenue and adj. EBITDA for 2024 decreased from the prior year, which was largely attributed to key clients facing difficulties during the year and reduced spending or discontinued services entirely.
2025 revenue outlook appears more promising. Management indicated that the Q1 revenue outlook should significantly improve, with Q1 expected to achieve the highest quarterly revenue in company’s history, near $5 million. Notably, management indicated that it is currently not affected by the geopolitical environment or the impact of tariffs. As such, it remains sanguine about the opportunity for the company to achieve at least $20 million in revenue for full year 2025.
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Wednesday, April 16, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
QuoteMedia Inc. (QMCI)/OUTPERFORM – Not Getting Revenue Traction
QuoteMedia Inc. (QMCI/$0.15 | Price Target: $0.26) Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 Jacob Mutchler jmutchler@noblefcm.com | Not Getting Revenue Traction Rating: OUTPERFORM
In-line results. The company reported Q4 revenue of $4.7 million and adj. EBITDA of $0.2 million, both of which were largely in line with our estimates of $4.6 million and $0.3 million, respectively, as illustrated in Figure #1 Q4 Results. Notably, both revenue and adj. EBITDA for 2024 decreased from the prior year, which was largely attributed to key clients facing difficulties during the year and reducing spending or discontinuing services entirely.
A difficult year. During the company’s Q3 earnings call, management highlighted the loss of a large client and indicated that some of its other clients are facing financial hardship, even though management indicated that there was a strong pipeline, albeit with a long ramp-up period. As such, the year-end results were largely expected to be lackluster.
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Tuesday, April 15, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
Bit Digital (BTBT)/OUTPERFORM – First Cerebras Systems Location Secured GeoVax Labs (GOVX)/OUTPERFORM – Stop Work Order Received For Project NextGen Trial – No Impact On Other Programs
Bit Digital (BTBT/$1.85 | Price Target: $5.5) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 Jacob Mutchler jmutchler@noblefcm.com | First Cerebras Systems Location Secured Rating: OUTPERFORM
New Tier 3 Site. Bit Digital announced that it has secured the rights to a new data center site in Saint-Jérôme, Québec (to be known as Montreal-3). This site, which is under development, will support the previously announced 5MW colocation agreement with Cerebras Systems, a leader in generative AI infrastructure.
Details. The facility spans approximately 202,000 square feet on 7.7 acres. In addition to the current Cerebras agreement, the facility has future expansion potential, subject to utility approvals. The transaction was executed under a lease-to-own structure, which includes a fixed-price purchase option exercisable within 12 months. The lease term is 20 years, with two 5-year extension options. The facility is being retrofitted to Tier 3 standards. Bit Digital expects development costs to total approximately CAD $55 million (approximately $40MM USD), and a targeted go-live date of July 2025.
GeoVax Labs (GOVX/$1.07 | Price Target: $10) Robert LeBoyer rleboyer@noblefcm.com | (212) 896-4625 Stop Work Order Received For Project NextGen Trial – No Impact On Other Programs Rating: OUTPERFORM
GeoVax Has Received A Stop Work Order For The Phase 2b Trial. GeoVax has received a Stop Work order for its BARDA-sponsored Phase 2b trial testing of CM04S1 for COVID-19. We have known about other Project NextGen-funded COVID-19 trials that were halted, but hoped the CM04S1 program would continue.
Background On The Phase 2 Trial. In June 2024, BARDA (an office within HHS) selected CM04S1 for a Phase 2b trial to test efficacy, immunogenicity, and safety for protection against COVID-19 as part of Project NexGen. We had expected GeoVax to receive about $25 million for its work on trial design and supplies to be receive
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Monday, April 14, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
InPlay Oil (IPOOF)/OUTPERFORM – Moving Up in the League Table
InPlay Oil (IPOOF/$0.93 | Price Target: $3.75) Mark Reichman mreichman@noblefcm.com | (561) 999-2272 Hans Baldau hbaldau@noblefcm.com | Moving Up in the League Table Rating: OUTPERFORM
Transformative acquisition closed. InPlay Oil recently closed its acquisition of Cardium light oil focused assets in the Pembina area of Alberta from Obsidian Energy for net consideration of approximately $301 million. The transaction more than doubles InPlay’s total output to 18,750 barrels of oil equivalent per day (boe/d). The assets are 68% weighted in oil and natural gas liquids (NGLs) and have a low decline rate of 22%. Management expects greater production, a lower decline rate, and enhanced operational efficiency. Following the completion of the acquisition, InPlay had 167,636,627 shares issued and outstanding.
Share consolidation. Effective April 14, InPlay will implement a share consolidation based on one common share for six common shares. The consolidation was unanimously approved by the company’s board and by 96.56% of the votes cast during a special meeting of shareholders. Post-consolidation, InPlay will have approximately 27,939,438 common shares issued and outstanding. The shares are expected to begin trading on a post-consolidation basis two to three trading days following the effective date.
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Friday, April 11, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
Saga Communications (SGA)/OUTPERFORM – Is It Time To Buy The Stock?
Saga Communications (SGA/$11.5 | Price Target: $18) Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 Jacob Mutchler jmutchler@noblefcm.com | Is It Time To Buy The Stock? Rating: OUTPERFORM
Attractive opportunity. The SGA stock is down 48% over the past year, which we believe is largely due to macroeconomic uncertainty impacting advertising revenue and a digital segment that is still early in its development. With some of the noise related to the late filing and activist shareholders quelled for the time being, the company is fully focused on its growth strategy. Given that radio stocks typically experience early cycle recoveries, we believe investors should have the SGA shares on their radar screens.
Cost-effective digital growth strategy. A key focus of the company is reducing costs that have no impact on revenue and continuing to emphasize the roll out of its blended digital advertising strategy. Notably, the blended strategy combines radio and digital advertising to provide a consistent message to customers on both mediums and to drive radio listeners to digital platforms. We view the company’s emphasis on the unique strategy favorably.
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Thursday, April 10, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
Snail (SNAL)/OUTPERFORM – Increasing Working Capital
Snail (SNAL/$0.77 | Price Target: $4) Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 Jacob Mutchler jmutchler@noblefcm.com | Increasing Working Capital Rating: OUTPERFORM
Completes a private placement. The Company completed a private placement offering of two unsecured convertible promissory notes for a combined total of $3.3 million. The notes were sold at a 10% discount to the principal amount and will pay a 5% Paid-In-Kind (PIK) annualized dividend. The proceeds will be used to increase working capital to support its projects and game releases in 2025.
Convertible features. The notes are convertible into shares of Class A Common Stock at $5.00 on any trading day during the five trading days prior to the conversion date. The notes mature in February 2026. Interest to be Paid-In-Kind (PIK) on the convertible notes will begin May 2025 and will be paid in 10 equal payments.
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Wednesday, April 9, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
Alliance Resource Partners (ARLP)/OUTPERFORM – A Strong U.S. Economy Relies on Abundant, Affordable and Reliable Energy Sources V2X (VVX)/OUTPERFORM – New Business; Successful ReFi
Alliance Resource Partners (ARLP/$25.87 | Price Target: $32) Mark Reichman mreichman@noblefcm.com | (561) 999-2272 A Strong U.S. Economy Relies on Abundant, Affordable and Reliable Energy Sources Rating: OUTPERFORM
Biden-era policies disadvantaged coal-fired power plants. In May 2024, the Environmental Protection Agency published a final rule that amended the Mercury and Air Toxics Standards (MATS) rule to make it more stringent. The rule placed severe burdens on coal-fired power plants and required compliance with standards premised on the application of costly emissions-control technologies that, for many coal plants, were not commercially viable. The new carbon emission rules were expected to accelerate coal-fired power plant retirements.
Taking a pragmatic and realistic approach. On April 8, President Trump took actions through proclamation and executive order to, 1) reinvigorate the U.S. coal industry, 2) protect American energy from state overreach, 3) strengthen the reliability and security of the United States electric grid, and 4) provide two years of relief from stringent Biden-era environmental regulations by allowing certain coal plants to comply with a less stringent version of the MATS rule. Moreover, the actions are intended to reduce regulatory burdens and promote coal exports.
V2X (VVX/$45.66 | Price Target: $72) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 New Business; Successful ReFi Rating: OUTPERFORM
COBRA DANE. V2X has been awarded a $62 million contract extension to continue ensuring the operational readiness of the COBRA DANE radar system in Alaska. In addition to ensuring operational readiness, V2X has incorporated various engineering enhancements into this essential system, extending its capabilities and readiness. This full-spectrum support emphasizes V2X’s differentiated capabilities, in our view. The extension work is expected to be completed by March 2027.
TESS ID/IQ. V2X won a seat on the Bridge to Enduring Synthetic Training Environment Tactical Engagement Simulation Systems (TESS). This contract supports the U.S. Army’s TESS devices, a vital component of its live training capabilities, by extending their product life and ensuring they meet the Army’s evolving requirements. The ID/IQ contract includes a ten-year performance period consisting of a five-year base period and two options with a ceiling value of $921 million. This award complements V2X’s previously won $3.7 billion Warfighter Readiness task order.
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Tuesday, April 8, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
Euroseas (ESEA)/OUTPERFORM – Favorable Time Charter Contract for the M/V Monica GDEV (GDEV)/OUTPERFORM – A More Profitable Growth Outlook
Euroseas (ESEA/$28.13 | Price Target: $44) Mark Reichman mreichman@noblefcm.com | (561) 999-2272 Hans Baldau hbaldau@noblefcm.com | Favorable Time Charter Contract for the M/V Monica Rating: OUTPERFORM
New time charter contract. Euroseas Ltd. executed a time charter contract for the M/V Monica at a gross daily rate of $23,500 for a minimum period of 24 months, with an option to extend to a maximum of 26 months at the charterer’s option. The M/V Monica is a 1,800 twenty-foot equivalent unit (TEU) feeder container ship. The new charter is expected to commence between the end of April and mid-May 2025.
Attractive rate and improved charter coverage. The new time charter is an improvement over the previous contract rate of $16,000 per day and is expected to contribute EBITDA of $12.1 million during the minimum contracted period. The new time charter enhances Euroseas’ charter coverage for the remainder of 2025 and 2026 to ~94% and ~58%, respectively.
GDEV (GDEV/$9.7 | Price Target: $70) Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 Jacob Mutchler jmutchler@noblefcm.com | A More Profitable Growth Outlook Rating: OUTPERFORM
Solid Q4 results. The company reported Q4 revenue of $97.5 million, modestly lower than our estimate of $101.0 million, but adj. EBITDA of $12.2 million was substantially better than our estimate of a loss of $1.9 million. The adj. EBITDA beat was largely driven by the company’s efficient use of selling and marketing expenses, which were 25% lower than our estimate.
Key operating metrics. In Q4, the company generated $94 million in bookings and had 292,000 monthly paying users (MPU). Bookings were largely in line with our expectations, while MPUs were modestly lower than we anticipated. Importantly, the decrease in MPU’s moderated from the quarter-over-quarter decrease experienced in Q3, and the company’s strategic marketing efforts appear to be gaining traction.
The preliminary list of stocks to be included in the Russell Reconstitution, and also which Russell Index, is a huge day for many stock investors and the impacted companies as well. This year, it occurs on Friday, May 23. The list, although preliminary and subject to refinements each Friday through June, includes the stocks that are believed to meet the requirements based on valuations taken on April 30. This is the first official file from the popular index provider, in addition to informing the investor public what to expect when the indexes are reconstituted. The reconstitution can be expected to impact prices as index fund managers readjust holdings. The event also, for many, redefines market-cap levels that are considered small-cap, mid-cap, and large-cap.
Background
The Russell Reconstitution is an annual event that reconfigures the membership of the Russell indexes by defining the top 3000 stocks based on market-cap (Russell 3000), then the top 1000 stocks (Russell 1000), and reclassifying the smaller 2000 stocks to form the Russell 2000 Small Cap Index. These serve as a benchmark for many institutional investors, as the indexes reflect the performance of the U.S. equity market across different market-cap classifications. The reconstitution process adds, removes, and weights stocks to ensure the indexes accurately represent the market.
The Preliminary List which will be published after the market closes on May 23, 2025, is a crucial step in the market cap reclassification process. It provides market participants with an initial glimpse into potential additions and deletions from the indexes. The stocks listed on this preliminary roster may experience increased attention from investors, as it hints at potential buying or selling pressure once the final reconstitution is completed.
The newly reconstituted indexes become live after the market close on June 23.
Implications for Investors
The release of the Russell Preliminary List on May 23 could provide opportunities for investors, including:
Enhanced Market Visibility – Companies listed on the Preliminary List may experience increased trading volumes and heightened market popularity, or even scrutiny, as investors evaluate their potential inclusion in the Russell indexes.
Potential Price Movements – Stocks slated for addition or deletion from the indexes can experience price volatility as market participants adjust their positions to align with the anticipated reconstitution changes.
Portfolio Adjustments – Active managers who track the Russell indexes may need to realign their portfolios to reflect the new index constituents, potentially triggering buying or selling activity in affected stocks.
Investor Considerations
Stock market participants should consider the following factors when analyzing the Preliminary List and its potential impact:
Final Reconstitution – The Preliminary List is subject to changes in the final reconstitution, which is typically announced in late June. Investors should monitor subsequent updates to confirm the actual index membership changes. These updates may occur as the result of faulty data or dramatic changes to the company such as a merger since the April 30 market cap snapshot.
Fundamental Analysis – As always, the fundamentals and financial health of the companies should be among the most important factors for non-index investors to consider. In the past, potential additions often presented attractive investment opportunities, while potential deletions may mean the stock gets less attention from investors.
Take Away
The release of the Preliminary List on May 23, 2025, marks a significant milestone in the Russell Reconstitution process. Investors should pay close attention to the stocks listed, as they may experience increased market visibility and potential price movements. However, it is important to remember that the Preliminary List is subject to changes. Thorough fundamental analysis, including earnings, potential growth, and liquidity assessment, is prudent for most stock investments. For more information to evaluate small-cap names, look to Channelchek as a source of data on over 6,000 small cap companies.
Key Points: – Levi Strauss sells Dockers to Authentic Brands Group for up to $391M to sharpen focus on core labels. – Dockers, a 1980s icon of “Casual Friday,” has struggled amid the rise of athleisure and remote work. – Authentic aims to revitalize Dockers and expand it into new markets and categories.
Levi Strauss & Co. is parting ways with one of its most recognizable labels, announcing Tuesday that it will sell its Dockers brand to Authentic Brands Group for up to $391 million. The sale marks a major shift for Levi Strauss, which is increasingly focused on its namesake denim line and the growing Beyond Yoga brand.
The transaction includes an initial payment of $311 million, with the potential for an additional $80 million in performance-based payouts. The sale is expected to close by July 31, 2025, for U.S. and Canadian operations, with global segments transitioning by January 2026.
Dockers, launched by Levi’s in 1986, became a defining symbol of the 1990s “Casual Friday” movement. Known for its khakis and relaxed office wear, the brand helped usher in a cultural shift away from stiff corporate dress codes. But in recent years, Dockers has fallen out of fashion favor, as a pandemic-driven work-from-home culture and the meteoric rise of athleisure wear left traditional khakis collecting dust in closets.
“Selling Dockers further aligns our portfolio with our strategic priorities,” Levi Strauss CEO Michelle Gass said. “We’re doubling down on the Levi’s brand and on high-growth categories like athleisure.” Gass also praised the Dockers team for its decades of brand stewardship, calling the line “the authority on khaki.”
The decision comes amid a broader effort by Levi Strauss to tighten its brand focus and revitalize profitability. In fiscal 2024, Levi’s reported $210.6 million in profit on $6.36 billion in revenue. However, growth in its core denim line and newer segments like Beyond Yoga has far outpaced Dockers in recent years.
Meanwhile, the buyer — Authentic Brands Group — is no stranger to resurrecting legacy names. The brand management firm, led by founder and CEO Jamie Salter, owns a portfolio of well-known but often underperforming or dormant brands, including Reebok, Brooks Brothers, and Forever 21.
Salter described Dockers as a “natural fit” for Authentic’s brand development model. “Dockers played a key role in shaping casual workwear, and we see significant potential to build on that legacy,” he said. Authentic plans to expand the Dockers brand across multiple categories and potentially international markets.
Analysts view the deal as a win-win: Levi Strauss sharpens its brand identity while shedding a slower-growth asset, and Authentic takes on a nostalgic brand with solid name recognition and room for reinvention. The sale also highlights the ongoing evolution in consumer preferences, as shoppers prioritize comfort, versatility, and lifestyle-driven fashion over traditional workplace attire.
As Dockers moves into new hands, the brand that helped define office wear for a generation now faces a new challenge—redefining its place in a post-business-casual world.
