Month: January 2026

SKYX Provides Corporate Update Including $9.5 Million in Recent Investment from its Leading Investors as it Continues to Grow its Market Penetration

Posted on by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

Research News and Market Data on SKYX

SKYX Board Member Converted an $835,000 Convertible Note at $2.20 per share

SKYX is in Process of Expanding its AI Ecosystem Program and AI Future Offerings

SKYX Announced Launch of its Patented Advanced SKYFAN and Turbo Heater in U.S. Leading Retailer Target, as well as into the Canadian Market in addition to its E-Commerce Platform with 60 Websites

Driven by Strong Demand, Management Expects to Announce Additional Launches of its SKYFAN and Turbo Heater in January at Several Other Leading U.S. Retailers and Big Box Chains

The Company Anticipates the Winter Launch of its SKYFAN & Turbo Heater Will Advance its Path to Cash-Flow Positive

SKYX Continues its Growth and Expects to Deploy over 60,000 of its Products into Homes/Units by the End of Q1 2026 through Retail and Pro Segments

Management Expects to Secure Additional Significant Business Opportunities in 2026

Following SKYX’s Successful Demonstration of its Technologies during a Marriott Hotel Renovation Company Expects to Significantly Expand its Hotel Segment in 2026

SKYX Revenues Increased for 7 Consecutive Comparable Quarters from Q1 2024 Through Q3 2025 with $19M in Q1/24, $21M in Q2/24, $22M in Q3/24, $23M in Q4/24, $20M in Q1/25, $23M in Q2/25 and $24M in Q3/25

SKYX’s Safety Code Standardization Team is Continuing to Progress and is Receiving Significant Support from a Prominent Leader with its Government Safety Organization Process for Safety Mandatory Standardization in Homes and Buildings of its Ceiling Outlet/Receptacle Technology

SKYX Will Supply its Technologies to Two Key Projects in Austin Texas 278 Units, and San Antonio Texas 340 Units, Built by Prominent Developers Landmark Companies, SKYX is Expected to Deploy Over 25,000 Units of its Advanced and Smart Plug & Play Technologies to The Projects

SKYX’s Major Collaboration with the Mixed-Use Smart City Development in Miami is Expected to Deploy over 500,000 Units of its Advanced and Plug & Play Smart Home Technologies; The Smart City Project Has Expanded from a $3 Billion to a $4 Billion Project

SKYX Will Be Launching a New AI Driven Software for its E-commerce Platform of 60 Websites Which is Expected to Increase its Conversion Rate and Sales Up To 30%; The AI-Native E-Commerce Platform is Designed to Elevate B2B and B2C Experiences through its Innovative and Smart Product Line

SKYX’s Technologies Expansion Provides Additional Opportunities for Future Recurring Revenues Through Interchangeability, Upgrades, AI Services, Monitoring and Subscriptions, Among Others

MIAMI, Jan. 05, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — SKYX Platforms Corp. (NASDAQ: SKYX) (d/b/a SKYX Technologies) (the “Company” or “SKYX”), a highly disruptive platform technology company with over 100 pending and issued patents globally and over 60 lighting and home décor websites, with a mission to make homes and buildings become safe and smart as the new standard, today provides a corporate update including $9.5 million in recent investment from its leading investors as it continues to grow its market penetration.

Highlights, Recent and Future Events

  • As of September 30, 2025, Company reported $13 million in total cash, cash equivalents, restricted cash, and receivables.
  • Company has recently raised $9.5 million in additional capital from several of its leading shareholders.
  • Company continues to leverage its cash position through its e-commerce platform of 60 websites among other methods including support from leading strategic investors and insiders.
  • Management believes it has sufficient cash to achieve its goals including being cash flow positive.
  • SKYX has recently extended and converted $13.5 million in notes coming due with maturity out to 5 years until 2030.
  • SKYX entered into an agreement with Global Ventures Group, a leading U.S. and international real estate development firm, marking a significant step in SKYX’s global expansion strategy.
  • Pursuant to the agreement, Global Ventures Group plans to deploy SKYX’s smart technologies into tens of thousands of homes and hotel rooms in that region and is expected to supply hundreds of thousands of units of its advanced and smart home technologies to projects across the Middle East, including developments in Saudi Arabia and Egypt.
  • The Company entered a major collaboration with a mixed-use smart city development in the heart of Miami, now expanded to a $4 billion project. SKYX is expected to deploy over 500,000 units of its advanced and plug & play smart home technologies.
  • SKYX announced it will be launching a new AI driven software for its e-commerce platform of 60 websites expected to increase its conversion rate and sales up to30%. The AI-native e-commerce platform is designed to elevate B2B and B2C experiences through its innovative and smart product line.
  • SKYX announced it will provide over 25,000 units of its Advanced and Smart Plug & Play products in two projects in the Austin and San Antonio, Texas led by prominent developers Landmark Companies.
  • Company is collaborating with Home Depot and Wayfair on its Advanced and Smart Plug & Play products for both retail and professional segments. SKYX’s product offering will include a variety of its advanced and Smart Plug & Play products including Retrofit Kits, Smart Light Fixtures, Smart Ceiling Fans, Ceiling Outlet Receptacles, Recessed Lights and more.
  • Marriott hotel chain owner, The Shaner Group, led a $16.5 million preferred round to date. The Shaner Group is an owner, and developer of more than 70 hotels worldwide.
  • SKYX has successfully demonstrated its technology during a Marriott Hotel renovation, incorporating its advanced and smart plug & play technologies, including ceiling lighting, recessed lights, downlights, wall lights, EXIT, and EMERGENCY lights, plug-in LED backlight mirrors among others.
  • SKYX revenues increased for 7 prior period comparable quarters from Q1 2024 through Q3 2025 with $19M in Q1/24, $21M in Q2/24, $22M in Q3/24, $24M in Q4/24, $20M in Q1/25, $23M in Q2/25 and $24M in Q3/25.
  • Management is expecting to secure additional significant business opportunities in 2026.
  • SKYX continues its growth and expects to deploy over 60,000 of its products into homes/units by the end of Q1 2026 through retail and pro segments.
  • The Company secured U.S. and global strategic manufacturing partnerships with premier manufacturers including U.S., Vietnam, Taiwan, China, and Cambodia.

Safety Standardization Mandatory Code / Insurance Specification and Recommendation:

  • SKYX’s Safety Code Standardization Team is receiving support from a new significant prominent leader with its government safety agency’s process for a safety mandatory standardization of its electrical ceiling outlet/receptacle technology.
  • SKYX’s code team is led by industry veterans Mark Earley, former head of the National Electrical Code (NEC), and Eric Jacobson, former President and CEO of the American Lighting Association (ALA). The Company’s safety Code Standardization team believes it will garner assistance from additional safety organizations with its code mandatory safety standardization efforts based on the product’s significant safety aspects. Mr. Earley and Mr. Jacobson were instrumental in numerous code and safety changes in both the electrical and lighting industries. Both strongly believe that, considering the Company’s standardization progress including its product specification approval voting for by ANSI / NEMA (American National Standardization Institute / National Electrical Manufacturers Association) and being voted into 10 segments in the NEC Code Book, it has met the necessary safety conditions for becoming a ceiling safety standardization requirement for homes and buildings.
  • With respect to insurance companies, the Company strongly believes its products can save insurance companies many billions of dollars annually by reducing fires, ladder falls, and electrocutions among other things. Management expects that once it completes an entire range and variations of its safe advanced plug & play products it will start being recommended by insurance companies.

About SKYX Platforms Corp.

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 100 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.

SKYX’s technologies provide opportunities for recurring revenues through interchangeability, upgrades, AI services monitoring, and subscriptions. Company is focused on the “Razor & Blades” model and its product range includes its advanced ceiling electrical outlet (Razor) and its advance and smart home plug & play products (Blades) including its advance and smart home plug & play platform products, lighting, recessed lights, down lights, EXIT signs, emergency lights, ceiling fans, chandeliers/pendants, holiday/kids/themes lights, indoor/outdoor wall lights among other. Company’s plug & play technology enables an installation of lighting, fans, and smart home products in high-rise buildings and hotels within days rather than months.

Company’s total addressable market (TAM) in the U.S. is roughly $500 billion with over 4.2 billion ceiling applications in the U.S. alone. Expected revenue streams from retail and professional segments include product sales, royalties, licensing, subscription, monitoring, and sale of global country rights.

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 First-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, including recent measures adopted by the federal government, 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.

Non-GAAP Financial Measures

Management considers earnings (loss) before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization, or EBITDA, as adjusted, an important indicator in evaluating the Company’s business on a consistent basis across various periods. Due to the significance of non-recurring items, EBITDA, as adjusted, enables management to monitor and evaluate the business on a consistent basis. The Company uses EBITDA, as adjusted, as a primary measure, among others, to analyze and evaluate financial and strategic planning decisions regarding future operating investments and potential acquisitions. The Company believes that EBITDA, as adjusted, eliminates items that are not part of the Company’s core operations, such as interest expense and amortization expense associated with intangible assets, or items that do not involve a cash outlay, such as share-based payments and non-recurring items, such as transaction costs. EBITDA, as adjusted, should be considered in addition to, rather than as a substitute for, pre-tax income (loss), net income (loss) and cash flows used in operating activities. This non-GAAP financial measure excludes significant expenses that are required by GAAP to be recorded in the Company’s financial statements and is subject to inherent limitations. Investors should review the reconciliation of this non-GAAP financial measure to the comparable GAAP financial measure. Investors should not rely on any single financial measure to evaluate the Company’s business.

Investor Relations Contact:

Jeff Ramson

PCG Advisory

jramson@pcgadvisory.com

The Venezuela Oil Story Nobody’s Talking About: Small-Cap Opportunities

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

The weekend capture of Nicolás Maduro and President Trump’s subsequent pledge to rebuild Venezuela’s energy sector sent shockwaves through oil markets on Monday. While headlines focused on the major players—Chevron surging 6.3%, ConocoPhillips and Exxon climbing, and oil-service giants like Halliburton, SLB, and Baker Hughes all jumping over 5%—savvy small-cap investors should be asking a different question: Where are the overlooked opportunities in this historic shift?

Venezuela sits atop the world’s largest crude reserves, yet years of corruption, underinvestment, and sanctions have decimated its infrastructure. Experts estimate a full revival could require upwards of $100 billion and take many years to complete. Trump’s commitment to having major US oil companies “spend billions of dollars” to fix the “badly broken infrastructure” represents one of the largest potential reconstruction efforts in the energy sector’s recent history. But here’s what the major media coverage misses: the oil majors can’t do this alone.

While Chevron, ExxonMobil, and ConocoPhillips will undoubtedly lead the charge—with Chevron already producing roughly 20% of Venezuela’s current output—the sheer scale of reconstruction needed creates a massive opportunity ecosystem that extends far beyond the Fortune 500. The infrastructure damage is comprehensive. Fires, thefts, equipment failures, and decades of neglect have left refineries, pipelines, storage facilities, and drilling operations in tatters. Rebuilding this complex network will require specialized services, equipment manufacturers, logistics providers, and niche technical expertise that major oil companies typically outsource.

While Halliburton and SLB dominate headlines, smaller oilfield services companies with expertise in heavy crude production, well rehabilitation, and aging infrastructure repair could see significant contract opportunities. These nimbler firms often provide specialized services that complement—rather than compete with—the major service providers. The reconstruction will require massive quantities of pumps, valves, drilling equipment, and replacement parts. Small-cap manufacturers and distributors specializing in oil and gas equipment could see order books fill rapidly, particularly those with experience in heavy crude operations or refinery equipment.

Moving equipment, materials, and eventually crude oil will require expanded logistics capabilities. Small-cap shipping companies, port services providers, and specialized transportation firms operating in the Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean could benefit from increased traffic between US Gulf Coast refineries and Venezuelan facilities. Any major reconstruction effort will also require environmental remediation, safety consulting, and regulatory compliance services. Smaller firms specializing in industrial cleanup, environmental monitoring, and workplace safety for hazardous environments may find significant opportunities.

Venezuela produces heavy crude that’s particularly valuable to Gulf Coast refineries, which are specifically designed to process it. This geographic and operational connection means US-based small-cap companies serving the Gulf Coast refining complex are naturally positioned to extend their services southward. The interrelationship between US refining infrastructure and Venezuelan crude creates a natural expansion pathway for regional players.

Smart investors must acknowledge significant risks. The article notes uncertainty about whether global oil companies will commit substantial capital to a country run by a temporary US-backed government without established legal and fiscal frameworks. ConocoPhillips called speculation about future activities “premature,” and ExxonMobil’s CEO indicated the company would be “cautious” given past asset expropriations. For small-cap companies, these political and regulatory risks are magnified. Smaller firms have less capital cushion to absorb losses and less negotiating power in unstable environments. Any investment thesis predicated on Venezuelan reconstruction must account for potential delays, political volatility, and the possibility that the opportunity never fully materializes.

While Monday’s market action rewarded the obvious beneficiaries, patient small-cap investors should be conducting deeper research into companies positioned along the value chain of Venezuelan oil reconstruction. The opportunity is real—$100 billion doesn’t get spent without creating ripples throughout the entire industry ecosystem—but it will require careful analysis to separate companies with genuine exposure from those merely riding headline momentum. The Venezuelan energy revival may be a major-cap story on the surface, but the small-cap opportunities hiding beneath could prove equally compelling for investors willing to do the work.

Release – Nicola Mining And Blue Lagoon Receive First Payment For Gold And Silver Under Long Term Partnership

Posted on by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

Research News and Market Data on HUSIF

January 5, 2026

News Releases

VANCOUVER, B.C, January 5, 2026 – Nicola Mining Inc. TSX:V: NIM (the “Company” or “Nicola Mining”) is pleased to announce that it and Blue Lagoon Resources (CSE: BLLG) (“Blue Lagoon”) have sold US$1.0 million gold and silver to Ocean Partners UK Limited[1] (“Ocean Partners”).  The Company is also pleased to announce that Blue Lagoon continues to provide steady shipments since the commencing of gold and silver mill feed hauling, as announced on December 1, 2025[2].  The two parties had previously announced[3]a commitment to a long term partnership[4].

Peter Espig, CEO of Nicola, commented, “Nicola is very excited to work closely with Blue Lagoon as the two companies mutually ramp up production and revenues, amidst strong precious metal prices.  Blue Lagoon’s management has done an incredible job in spearheading the project through permitting and mine development to becoming a producer”.

Qualified Person

Cameron Lilly, P. Eng., the Company’s Mill Manager, 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 is a fully-permitted high grade silver mine and includes 30 mineral claims and a mineral lease, spanning an area exceeding 2,200 hectares.

On behalf of the Board of Directors

“Peter Espig”  
Peter Espig
CEO & Director

For additional information

Contact:  Peter Espig
Phone: (778) 385-1213
Email: info@nicolamining.com
URL: www.nicolamining.com

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] Ocean Partners operates in several countries throughout the world.  Ocean Partners maintains a strong global network of relationships and contacts in the base metal mining and smelting sector.

[2] News Release:  December 1, 2025 Link

[3] Nicola Mining News Release dated June 23, 2025

[4] Blue Lagoon’s News Release dated September 29, 2025:  Link

Release – The Oncology Institute Announces Addition of Board Member Mark Stolper

Posted on by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

Research News and Market Data on TOI

Jan 05, 2026

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CERRITOS, Calif., Jan. 05, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The Oncology Institute, Inc. (“TOI”) (NASDAQ: TOI), one of the largest value-based oncology groups in the United States, today announced that Mark Stolper has joined the Board of Directors, effective January 2, 2026. Mr. Stolper brings significant public markets, financial and operational leadership experience to The Oncology Institute’s board. Mr. Stolper serves as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of RadNet, Inc. (NASDAQ: RDNT), a position he has held since 2004. Mr. Stolper has also been a member of the Board of Directors of various publicly traded and privately held healthcare companies, including 21st Century Oncology Holdings, Inc., which at the time was one of the nation’s leading radiation and medical oncology companies.

“We are very pleased to have a seasoned public company CFO like Mark join our board,” said Anne McGeorge, Chairman of the Board of The Oncology Institute. “Mark brings tremendous experience in capital markets, fundraising strategies, strategic financial planning and payor strategy that will be invaluable to TOI in our next phase of growth.”

“I am very excited to join The Oncology Institute’s Board of Directors,” commented Mr. Stolper. “The Company’s mission to provide leading-edge, cost-effective cancer care to improve outcomes and streamline the patient journey is critically important at this time in healthcare. I truly believe that TOI is poised for continued growth and profitability in the coming years.”

About The Oncology Institute
Founded in 2007, The Oncology Institute (NASDAQ: TOI) is advancing oncology by delivering highly specialized, value-based cancer care in the community setting. TOI offers cutting-edge, evidence-based cancer care to a population of approximately 1.9 million patients, including clinical trials, transfusions, and other care delivery models traditionally associated with the most advanced care delivery organizations. With over 180 employed and affiliate clinicians and over 100 clinics and affiliate locations of care across five states and growing, TOI is changing oncology for the better. For more information, visit www.theoncologyinstitute.com

Contacts

Media

The Oncology Institute, Inc.
marketing@theoncologyinstitute.com

Investors

ICR Healthcare
TOI@icrhealthcare.com

Release – Gyre Therapeutics Announces Alignment with China’s CDE on Conditional Approval Pathway and Priority Review Eligibility for Hydronidone Following Pre-NDA Meeting

Posted on by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

Research News and Market Data on GYRE

January 5, 2026

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  • Gyre Pharmaceuticals completed a Pre-NDA meeting with China’s CDE, which agreed that the existing Phase 3 clinical data support a conditional approval filing for Hydronidone and priority review eligibility, subject to formal approval.
  • Gyre Pharmaceuticals plans to submit an NDA in the first half of 2026 and conduct a confirmatory clinical trial to support full approval in China.

SAN DIEGO, Jan. 05, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Gyre Therapeutics, Inc. (Gyre or the Company) (Nasdaq: GYRE), an innovative, commercial-stage biopharmaceutical company dedicated to advancing fibrosis-first therapies across organ systems affected by chronic disease, today announced that its majority-owned subsidiary in China, Gyre Pharmaceuticals Co., Ltd. (Gyre Pharmaceuticals), completed a Pre–New Drug Application (Pre-NDA) communication meeting with the Center for Drug Evaluation (CDE) of China’s National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) regarding Hydronidone, the Company’s first-in-class anti-fibrotic therapy.

During the meeting, Gyre Pharmaceuticals and the CDE reached consensus that existing Phase 3 clinical data for Hydronidone, based on histologic improvement in liver fibrosis as measured by the Ishak fibrosis score, are generally supportive of submission of a conditional approval NDA for the treatment of chronic hepatitis B (CHB)-associated liver fibrosis, including early (compensated) cirrhosis. The CDE further indicated that Hydronidone meets the criteria for inclusion in China’s Priority Review and Approval Program for Innovative Drugs, subject to formal filing, acceptance and regulatory review.

The NMPA previously granted Hydronidone Breakthrough Therapy Designation in March 2021, recognizing its potential to address a serious condition with significant unmet medical need. This designation supports eligibility for priority review, which is intended to facilitate an accelerated regulatory review process for innovative therapies.

As previously disclosed on May 22, 2025, Gyre reported topline results from its Phase 3 trial in CHB-associated liver fibrosis demonstrating that Hydronidone met its primary endpoint, with 52.85% of treated patients achieving ≥1-stage fibrosis regression at Week 52, compared with 29.84% in the placebo group (p=0.0002), based on centralized, blinded Ishak histologic assessment. The trial also achieved a key secondary endpoint evaluating improvement in liver inflammation without fibrosis progression and demonstrated a favorable safety profile consistent with prior clinical experience.

As part of the agreed regulatory pathway, the Company plans to conduct an additional confirmatory clinical trial (referred to as a Phase 3c trial in China) designed to evaluate liver-related clinical outcomes to support potential conversion from conditional approval to regular approval.

The Company currently expects to submit an NDA for conditional approval of Hydronidone in the first half of 2026, subject to final data readiness and applicable regulatory procedures.

“Hydronidone addresses a significant unmet medical need in patients with CHB-associated liver fibrosis, for whom there are currently no approved anti-fibrotic therapies,” said Ping Zhang, Interim Chief Executive Officer of Gyre. “We are encouraged by the positive and constructive Pre-NDA dialogue with the CDE and the alignment achieved on a clear regulatory pathway. This milestone reflects the strength of our Phase 3 clinical data and supports our plans to advance Hydronidone toward conditional approval in China.”

About Hydronidone

Hydronidone is a novel, orally administered anti-fibrotic agent designed to target key liver fibrosis pathways. It attenuates hepatic stellate cell activation and fibrogenesis, at least in part, by suppressing TGF-β1-induced signal transduction, including reduced p38γ phosphorylation and upregulated Smad7 expression. This upregulation of Smad7 subsequently leads to downregulation of TGF-βRI and inhibition of Smad2/3 activation, thereby disrupting canonical TGF-β/Smad signaling and reducing fibrotic gene expression in HSCs.

The drug has completed Phase 3 clinical evaluation in China for CHB-associated liver fibrosis, including early (compensated) cirrhosis, and is being evaluated for its potential applicability across additional fibrotic diseases in region-specific development programs.

About the CHB Fibrosis Market in China

CHB-associated liver fibrosis represents a significant unmet medical need in China. According to China’s national hepatitis B serological survey and internal epidemiological modeling, it is estimated that 60–70 million people in China are infected with hepatitis B virus, of whom approximately 14.7 million are diagnosed. Among these patients, an estimated 2.6 million have diagnosed, compensated, clinically significant liver fibrosis (F2–F4), excluding decompensated cirrhosis, and may be eligible for anti-fibrotic intervention.

About Gyre Pharmaceuticals

Gyre Pharmaceuticals is a commercial-stage biopharmaceutical company committed to the research, development, manufacturing and commercialization of innovative drugs for organ fibrosis. Its flagship product, ETUARY® (pirfenidone capsule), was the first approved treatment for IPF in the PRC in 2011 and has maintained a prominent market share (2024 net sales of $105.8 million). In addition, Gyre Pharmaceuticals’ pipeline includes Hydronidone, a structural analogue of pirfenidone, which demonstrated statistically significant fibrosis regression after 52 weeks of treatment in a pivotal Phase 3 clinical trial in CHB-associated liver fibrosis in the PRC. Hydronidone received Breakthrough Therapy designation by the NMPA Center for Drug Evaluation in March 2021. Gyre Pharmaceuticals is also developing treatments for PD, RILI with or without immune-related pneumonitis, COPD, PAH and ALF/ACLF. As of the third quarter of 2025, Gyre Therapeutics owns a 69.7% equity interest in Gyre Pharmaceuticals.

About Gyre Therapeutics

Gyre Therapeutics is a biopharmaceutical company headquartered in San Diego, CA, primarily focused on the development and commercialization of Hydronidone for liver fibrosis including MASH in the U.S. Gyre’s strategy builds on its experience in mechanistic studies using MASH rodent models and clinical studies in CHB-induced liver fibrosis. In the PRC, Gyre is advancing a broad pipeline through its indirect controlling interest in Gyre Pharmaceuticals, including therapeutic expansions of ETUARY, and development programs for F573, F528, and F230.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, which statements are subject to substantial risks and uncertainties and are based on estimates and assumptions. All statements, other than statements of historical facts included in this press release, are forward-looking statements, including statements concerning: the expectations regarding Gyre’s research and development efforts and the timing of expected clinical readouts and regulatory filings, including the anticipated timing of the filing of Gyre’s NDA with the NMPA for the conditional approval of Hydronidone for the treatment of CHB-associated liver fibrosis and early cirrhosis and the initiation of the confirmatory Phase 3c clinical trial of Hydronidone to support full approval in China. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by terms such as “may,” “might,” “will,” “objective,” “intend,” “should,” “could,” “can,” “would,” “expect,” “believe,” “design,” “estimate,” “predict,” “potential,” “plan” or the negative of these terms, and similar expressions intended to identify forward-looking statements. These statements reflect our plans, estimates, and expectations, as of the date of this press release. These statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause our actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements expressed or implied in this press release. Actual results and the timing of events could differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking statements as a result of these risks and uncertainties, which include, without limitation: Gyre’s ability to execute on its clinical development strategies; positive results from a clinical trial may not necessarily be predictive of the results of future or ongoing clinical trials; the timing or likelihood of regulatory filings and approvals; competition from competing products; the impact of general economic, health, industrial or political conditions in the United States or internationally; the sufficiency of Gyre’s capital resources and its ability to raise additional capital; supply chain and distribution delays and challenges. Additional risks and factors are identified under “Risk Factors” in Gyre’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024 filed on March 17, 2025 and in other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Gyre expressly disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

For Investors:
David Zhang, Chief Business Officer
david.zhang@gyretx.com 

Cardiff Oncology (CRDF) – Onvansertib Could Treat Colorectal Cancers That Escape Other Treatments

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com


Monday, January 05, 2026

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

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

Initiating Coverage With A $12 Price Target. Cardiff Oncology is developing onvansertib for the treatment of multiple cancer indications. Its lead program is in metastatic colorectal cancer for patients with a mutation that makes the cancer more aggressive and difficult to treat. This mutation, KRAS, is found in about 45% of the colorectal cancer patients. As a result of the mutation, several standard therapies are ineffective. We believe onvansertib’s unique mechanisms of action could be a breakthrough in cancer treatment.

Onvansertib Has Two Main Mechanisms of Action. Onvansertib inhibits PLK1, an intracellular protein needed for regulatory  functions that control cell growth and division. This protein can be overexpressed in many cancers, including colorectal cancer, overriding the normal controls. A second mechanism stops a pathway that allows tumors to survive in low oxygen environments and resist treatment with bevacizumab (Avastin).


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Vince Holding Corp. (VNCE) – Emerging Growth Levers Provide Favorable 2026 View

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com


Monday, January 05, 2026

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

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

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

Execution inflection driven by digital and DTC momentum. 2025 marked a clear improvement in operating execution, led by stronger e-commerce performance, enhanced digital capabilities, and early traction from the dropship initiative, which collectively supported revenue growth and improved operating leverage.

Pricing power and profitability improved despite cost headwinds. The company demonstrated brand resilience through higher average selling prices, stable unit volumes, improved full-price sell-through, and disciplined cost management, allowing it to offset tariff and freight pressures and deliver meaningful adjusted EBITDA upside.


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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. 

BYD Surpasses Tesla to Become World’s Largest EV Maker

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

BYD Co., the Chinese electric vehicle giant, has hit a major milestone, surpassing Tesla Inc. to claim the title of the world’s largest electric vehicle maker in 2025. The achievement comes amid a challenging backdrop for China’s auto market, with heightened domestic competition and shifting government incentives.

The Shenzhen-based company delivered a total of 4.6 million vehicles last year, representing a 7.7% increase from 2024, and meeting the full-year sales target it set in September. Nearly half of these vehicles—2.26 million—were fully electric, with the remainder comprising plug-in hybrid models. In contrast, Tesla’s full-year deliveries are projected to reach approximately 1.66 million vehicles, marking its second consecutive annual decline. The US automaker’s fourth-quarter shipments alone were down 11% from a year earlier.

BYD’s milestone was reflected in market performance, with its Hong Kong-listed shares rising as much as 2.3% on the first trading day of 2026. Despite this growth, the company faces significant pressure in the year ahead. China’s reduction of certain EV purchase incentives and an influx of new domestic models have intensified competition. Geely Automobile Holdings Ltd. and Xiaomi Corp., among others, have launched new vehicles that are capturing consumer attention, making the domestic landscape more challenging.

Chief Executive Officer Wang Chuanfu acknowledged that BYD’s technological lead over competitors has narrowed, affecting domestic sales. However, he expressed confidence in the company’s 120,000-strong engineering team and hinted at upcoming breakthroughs that could help BYD regain an edge.

International markets have emerged as a bright spot for BYD. Overseas deliveries reached 1.05 million units in 2025, surpassing expectations and helping offset domestic softness. The company has set ambitious targets for 2026, aiming to sell between 1.5 million and 1.6 million vehicles outside China. Analysts from Deutsche Bank and Morgan Stanley forecast that new product launches and a refreshed technology platform could further strengthen BYD’s global competitiveness.

Nevertheless, the company faces financial and regulatory hurdles. BYD posted back-to-back quarterly profit declines in 2025 and has been at the center of China’s efforts to curb aggressive EV discounting. This regulatory scrutiny may accelerate consolidation within the industry and reshape the competitive hierarchy.

Tesla, meanwhile, is grappling with its own set of challenges. Production line adjustments for the redesigned Model Y slowed early 2025 deliveries, while the US elimination of federal EV purchase incentives is expected to weigh on demand. Additionally, CEO Elon Musk’s controversial political profile has reportedly deterred some buyers, further complicating the company’s outlook.

Despite these headwinds, BYD appears poised to maintain its lead. Analyst estimates suggest total sales could reach 5.3 million units in 2026, allowing the company to solidify its position as the top global EV maker. With growing overseas momentum, strategic product launches, and continued investment in technology, BYD is not just overtaking Tesla—it is reshaping the global electric vehicle landscape.

Release – InPlay Oil Corp. Confirms Monthly Dividend for January 2026

Posted on by aweinsoff@channelchek.com
InPlay Oil logo (CNW Group/InPlay Oil Corp.)

Research News and Market Data on IPOOF

CALGARY AB, Jan. 2, 2026 /CNW/ – InPlay Oil Corp. (TSX: IPO) (OTCQX: IPOOF) (“InPlay” or the “Company”) is pleased to confirm that its Board of Directors has declared a monthly cash dividend of $0.09 per common share payable on January 30, 2026, to shareholders of record at the close of business on January 15, 2026. The monthly cash dividend is expected to be designated as an “eligible dividend” for Canadian federal and provincial income tax purposes.

About InPlay Oil Corp.

InPlay is a junior oil and gas exploration and production company with operations in Alberta focused on light oil production. The company operates long-lived, low-decline properties with drilling development and enhanced oil recovery potential as well as undeveloped lands with exploration possibilities. The common shares of InPlay trade on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol IPO and the OTCQX Exchange under the symbol IPOOF.

www.inplayoil.com 

SOURCE InPlay Oil Corp.

For further information please contact: Doug Bartole, President and Chief Executive Officer, InPlay Oil Corp., Telephone: (587) 955-0632; Darren Dittmer, Chief Financial Officer, InPlay Oil Corp., Telephone: (587) 955-0634

Release – Aurania Directors Receive Stock Options in Lieu of Fees

Posted on by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

Research News and Market Data on AUIAF

January 02, 2026 7:00 AM EST | Source: Aurania Resources Ltd.

Toronto, Ontario–(Newsfile Corp. – January 2, 2026) – Aurania Resources Ltd. (TSXV: ARU) (OTCQB: AUIAF) (FSE: 20Q) (“Aurania” or the “Company”) announces that its Board of Directors have agreed to receive their quarterly director fees in the form of stock options in lieu of cash for the fourth quarter of 2025. For more information, see press releases dated March 31, 2025, July 1, 2025 and October 1, 2025.

On December 31, 2025, each director was granted 34,500 stock options at an exercise price of $0.175 in lieu of their director fees for the fourth quarter of 2025. An aggregate of 138,000 stock options was granted. All such stock options will be exercisable for a period of three years from the date of grant and vested immediately upon grant. In the event a director intends to exercise such stock options, such director shall be solely responsible for paying the entirety of the exercise price.

About Aurania
Aurania is a mineral exploration company engaged in the identification, evaluation, acquisition, and exploration of mineral property interests, with a focus on precious metals and critical energy in Europe and abroad.

Information on Aurania and technical reports are available at www.aurania.com and www.sedarplus.ca, as well as on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/auranialtd/, Twitter at https://twitter.com/auranialtd, and LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/aurania-resources-ltd-.

For further information, please contact:

Carolyn Muir
VP Corporate Development & Investor Relations
Aurania Resources Ltd.
(416) 367-3200
carolyn.muir@aurania.com		 

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.

info

Source: Aurania Resources Ltd.

Long-Maturity Treasuries Slide Into 2026 After Strong 2025 Gains

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

Long-maturity U.S. Treasuries opened 2026 on a cautious note, following the market’s most robust annual performance in five years. While last year saw substantial gains for government bonds, investors are now recalibrating as the potential for additional Federal Reserve interest-rate cuts raises concerns about inflation and fiscal sustainability.

The 30-year Treasury yield rose roughly two basis points to 4.87%, reflecting modest losses but signaling increased volatility after last year’s record gains. In contrast, shorter-dated Treasuries, which are more directly influenced by Fed policy, remained relatively stable or slightly lower. This divergence continues the trend observed in late 2025, when the Fed cut its target range by three quarter-point moves, leading short-term yields lower while long-term rates were supported by economic resilience and fiscal pressures.

Investor focus has shifted to how a potential new Fed leadership might approach monetary policy. Long-term bond yields face upward pressure not only from prospective rate cuts but also from the U.S. government’s challenging fiscal outlook and signs of continued economic strength. Data released late last year indicated the U.S. economy expanded at the fastest pace in two years, complicating the narrative that rate reductions alone would sustain low yields.

Market participants are also closely watching interest-rate derivatives. Recent trading shows heavy demand for options that protect against the federal funds rate dropping to 0% from its current 3.5% range, while swap contracts suggest a more moderate decline toward a 3% floor by year-end. These instruments highlight investor uncertainty over the Fed’s next moves and underline the tension between potential policy easing and persistent inflation, which remains above the central bank’s 2% target.

Despite these concerns, Treasuries continue to serve a strategic role for investors. Portfolio managers cite historically high stock valuations as a compelling reason to maintain exposure to government bonds, providing a hedge against market corrections. James Athey, a portfolio manager at Marlborough Investment Management, notes that volatility is likely to return to bond markets as investors wrestle with the Fed’s evolving policy stance. This environment may produce short-term swings in long-term yields, even as the overall trend for bonds remains influenced by macroeconomic fundamentals.

Globally, bond markets are experiencing similar pressures. Germany’s 10-year yields climbed six basis points to 2.91%, while the UK’s 10-year yield rose five basis points to 4.53%. In Australia, 10-year bonds slumped as yields jumped eight basis points on speculation that rising commodity prices could accelerate growth and prompt the Reserve Bank of Australia to raise rates. Meanwhile, January marks one of the busiest months for new corporate bond issuance, increasing competition for investor capital and adding another layer of pressure on Treasury prices.

Looking ahead, Treasuries are expected to remain a key tool for risk management, particularly for investors balancing exposure to equities and small caps. While the bond market’s exceptional 2025 performance sets a high bar, 2026 may bring more volatility and narrower returns, underscoring the importance of strategic positioning across maturities.

V2X (VVX) – A Strong End to 2025 Awards

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com


Friday, January 02, 2026

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

Joe Gomes, CFA, Managing Director, Equity Research Analyst, Generalist , Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

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

DMEA ATSP. V2X subsidiary Vertex Aerospace has been named as an awardee to the Defense Microelectronics Activity (DMEA) Advanced Technology Support Program (ATSP), according to the daily Department of War contract award activity. With multi-billion dollar potential, this award caps a strong year for V2X. The Company has won places on multiple billion dollar contracts, which bode well for the future.

Details. DMEA ATSP is an ID/IQ contract with a $23.357 billion ceiling. This multiple award contract has a base ordering period of five years with two option periods, three years and two years respectively, to establish a 10 year ordering period. There are a total of 10 awardees, including Vertex. As an ID/IQ, Vertex will need to compete for each award, but we are confident the Company will receive its fair share of wins under the contract.


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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. 

Twin Hospitality (TWNP) – A Management Change

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com


Friday, January 02, 2026

Joe Gomes, CFA, Managing Director, Equity Research Analyst, Generalist , Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

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

Leadership Transition. Twin Hospitality announced Andy Wiederhorn has been named Chief Executive Officer of the Company and Roger Gondek has been named President of Twin Peaks, replacing former CEO and President Kim Boerema. While somewhat surprising, as Mr. Boerema was appointed CEO just this past May, the new leadership simplifies the leadership structure and optimizes resources while minimizing overhead, without any significant change in ability, in our view.

Roger Gondek. We believe the elevation of Mr. Gondek to President of Twin Peaks Restaurant to be the headline. Already serving as Chief Operating Officer of Twin Peaks since 2017, Mr. Gondek brings approximately 15 years of experience with the brand, including previous operations leadership roles with Twin Peaks’ largest franchisee. Mr. Gondek was the Executive Vice President of Operations of La Cima Restaurants, LLC, a franchiser of 43 Twin Peaks restaurants in Florida, Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, and Tennessee, from June 2011 to July 2017. Prior to La Cima Restaurants, Mr. Gondek was a Divisional Vice President at Hooters of America from October 2001 to February 2011. Mr. Gondek has a deep understanding of Twin Peaks markets, in our opinion.


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

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

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