LAKE ZURICH, Ill.–(BUSINESS WIRE)– ACCO Brands Corporation (NYSE: ACCO) today announced that its board of directors has declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.075 per share. The dividend will be paid on June 18, 2025 to stockholders of record as of the close of business on May 23, 2025.
About ACCO Brands Corporation
ACCO Brands is the leader in branded consumer products that enable productivity, confidence and enjoyment while working, when learning and while playing. Our widely recognized brands include AT-A-GLANCE®, Five Star®, Kensington®, Leitz®, Mead®, PowerA®, Swingline®, Tilibra® and many others. More information about ACCO Brands Corporation (NYSE: ACCO) can be found at www.accobrands.com.
Toronto, Ontario–(Newsfile Corp. – April 25, 2025) – Aurania Resources Ltd. (TSXV: ARU) (OTCQB: AUIAF) (FSE: 20Q) (“Aurania” or the “Company”) is pleased to announce the appointment of Ms. Carolyn Muir as Corporate Secretary of the Company, in addition to her role as Vice President, Corporate Development & Investor Relations. The Company also reports that its Financial Statements and Management’s Discussion and Analysis for the year ended December 31, 2024, are available under Aurania’s public filings on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.com and on the Company’s website. Highlights are described below.
Highlights from Management’s Discussion and Analysis
During the fourth quarter of 2024, the Company advanced drill target definition at its Kuri-Yawi gold target through detailed geophysical surveys and geological mapping. Preliminary results show a large vertical conductive corridor aligned with thallium-rich chalcedony veins, sinters and hydrothermal alterations, key indicators of epithermal systems. Two main chargeability structures were identified, interpreted as potential mineralized zones. Ongoing data integration will guide preparations for a future drill campaign.
The Anaconda mapping program at the Awacha porphyry copper target area was completed during 2024. Initial geological reconnaissance has confirmed an area of interest through the observation of porphyric intrusive showing potassic and sericite alteration with the presence of quartz veins with chalcopyrite traces. Next steps will consist of an interpretation of all the data collected with the realization of thematic maps to define the most prospective area of interest.
During 2024, Aurania’s CSR activities supported clean water access, education, and women’s entrepreneurship across the communities in its areas of influence in Ecuador, including the launch of a micro-business program, school and library construction, and community-based training initiatives.
The Swiss challenge and public consultation phases associated with the application for a 51 km² exploration permit-located immediately adjacent to the South Armorican Shear (cisaillement sud-armoricain) in the Brittany Peninsula of northwestern France-have now been completed, and the Company continues to advance through the progress of the application.
The Company signed non-binding memoranda of understanding with the Communes of Ogliastro and Nonza in Cap Corse, Northern Corsica, France, for the exploitation of heavy mineral beach placers that are highly enriched in nickel (Ni) and other metals. The nickel-bearing mineral in the black magnetic sand is awaruite, a naturally occurring nickel-iron alloy, which is both of high specific gravity (dense) and of high magnetic susceptibility (magnetic).
AuroVallis, the wholly owned Swiss subsidiary of Aurania, completed the liquidation process initiated several years on June 30, 2024, with no impact on the Company’s consolidated financial figures.
On September 23, 2024, Palamina Corp. (“Palamina”), completed the acquisition of 100% of the shares of Aurania’s Peruvian subsidiary in exchange of 350,000 common shares of Palamina Corp. (TSXV: PA) (OTCQB: PLMNF) and a 1% Net Smelter Return (“NSR”) royalty over certain mining claims located in Peru and held by the Company’s subsidiary. Palamina has the option to buy back half of the NSR for $1,000,000 at any time.
During 2024, the Company completed two non-brokered private placements totaling $5,429,481 in gross proceeds, with units priced at $0.20 and $0.45, each including one common share and one warrant. Proceeds were used to advance exploration activities and working capital. To preserve cash and improve the balance sheet, the Company settled $3,812,781 in debt owed to Dr. Keith Barron through the issuance of common shares. Additionally, the Company received a $1,000,000 unsecured loan from Dr. Barron to support ongoing operations.
The Company reached an agreement with the corresponding Ecuadorian authorities for the payment of the annual concession fees of its 42 mineral exploration concessions in Ecuador for the year 2024. Subsequent to year end, the Company filed all the appropriate documentation for the renewal of its 42 mineral exploration concessions in Ecuador for the year 2025 and filed a request to enter into a new agreement for payment of the associated annual concession fees. Its property in Ecuador remains in good standing while an agreement is being finalized.
Subsequent to year end, on April 3, 2025, the Company announced its intention to complete a non-brokered private placement financing of up to 5,000,000 units of the Company at a price of $0.30 per unit for total gross proceeds of up to $1,500,000. On April 17, 2025, the Company announced the closure of the first tranche. An aggregate of 3,182,899 units were sold under the first tranche for total gross proceeds of $954,870. Each unit consisting of one common share of the Company and one common share purchase warrant, the warrant having and exercise price of $0.55 per common share and an expiry date of two years after closing of the first tranche. Dr. Keith Barron subscribed for 1,000,000 Units of this offering.
Option Grant
On April 24, 2025, Ms. Carolyn Muir was granted 130,000 stock options exercisable at C$0.27 each in connection with her appointment as Corporate Secretary and her existing roles as VP Corporate Development and Investor Relations of the Corporation. The options have a 5-year expiry term and shall vest one-third immediately, one-third one year from the date of grant, and one-third vesting two years after the date of grant.
Qualified Person
The technical information contained in this news release has been verified and approved by Jean-Paul Pallier, MSc. Mr. Pallier is a designated EurGeol by the European Federation of Geologists and is a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101, Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects of the Canadian Securities Administrators.
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 copper in South America. Its flagship asset, The Lost Cities – Cutucu Project, is located in the Jurassic Metallogenic Belt in the eastern foothills of the Andes mountain range of southeastern Ecuador.
Neither the TSXV nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSXV) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
Forward-Looking Statements This news release contains forward-looking information as such term is defined in applicable securities laws, which relate to future events or future performance and reflect management’s current expectations and assumptions. The forward-looking information includes Aurania’s objectives, goals or future plans, statements, exploration results, potential mineralization, the corporation’s portfolio, treasury, management team and enhanced capital markets profile, the estimation of mineral resources, exploration, timing of the commencement of operations, the Company’s teams being on track ahead of any drill program, the commencement of any drill program and estimates of market conditions. Such forward-looking statements reflect management’s current beliefs and are based on assumptions made by and information currently available to Aurania, including the assumption that, there will be no material adverse change in metal prices, all necessary consents, licenses, permits and approvals will be obtained, including various local government licenses and the market. Investors are cautioned that these forward-looking statements are neither promises nor guarantees and are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause future results to differ materially from those expected. Risk factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the results expressed or implied by the forward-looking information include, among other things: commodity prices, supply chain disruptions, restrictions on labour and workplace attendance and local and international travel; a failure to obtain or delays in obtaining the required regulatory licenses, permits, approvals and consents; an inability to access financing as needed; a general economic downturn, a volatile stock price, labour strikes, political unrest, changes in the mining regulatory regime governing Aurania; a failure to comply with environmental regulations; a weakening of market and industry reliance on precious metals and base metals; and those risks set out in the Company’s public documents filed on SEDAR+. Aurania cautions the reader that the above list of risk factors is not exhaustive. Although the Company believes that the assumptions and factors used in preparing the forward-looking information in this news release are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on such information, which only applies as of the date of this news release, and no assurance can be given that such events will occur in the disclosed time frames or at all. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, other than as required by law.
Orders Highlight Continued Strength Across Diverse Product Offerings
CHICAGO, April 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — FreightCar America, Inc. (NASDAQ: RAIL) (“FreightCar America” or the “Company”), a diversified manufacturer and supplier of railroad freight cars, railcar parts, and components, today announced that it received total orders valued at approximately $141 million, representing a total of 1,250 railcars, during the quarter ended March 31, 2025. These orders underscore ongoing demand for FreightCar America’s railcar offerings and reflect continued market share gains.
FreightCar America continues to gain share within its core railcar markets, driven by strategic initiatives aimed at increasing operational efficiency, product innovation, and commercial excellence. The orders represent approximately 25% of all new railcars ordered in the quarter, and 36% in our addressable market, marking the largest new railcar market share quarter intake in 15 years.
Nick Randall, President and Chief Executive Officer of FreightCar America, commented, “We are pleased to see sustained customer interest across our product portfolio, particularly in gondolas, open-top hoppers and covered hopper cars, which remain an integral part of our diverse portfolio of railcar types. Our manufacturing agility and ability to capture these opportunities highlights our competitive strengths.”
Randall continued, “We have been monitoring recent tariff developments and based on our current understanding, railcars sold by FreightCar America in North America are not subject to tariffs due to their compliance with the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement. We continue to monitor any tariff developments. With our supply chain strategy, operational excellence initiatives at our manufacturing facility and continued commercial momentum, we remain confident in our forward trajectory.”
Certain orders referenced in this release are subject to customary documentation and completion of terms.
About FreightCar America
FreightCar America, headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, is a leading designer, producer and supplier of railroad freight cars, railcar parts and components. We also specialize in railcar repairs, complete railcar rebody services and railcar conversions that repurpose idled rail assets back into revenue service. Since 1901, our customers have trusted us to build quality railcars that are critical to economic growth and instrumental to the North American supply chain. To learn more about FreightCar America, visit www.freightcaramerica.com.
Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains statements relating to our expected financial performance, financial condition, and/or future business prospects, events and/or plans that are “forward-looking statements” as defined under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements represent our estimates and assumptions only as of the date of this press release. Our actual results may differ materially from the results described in or anticipated by our forward-looking statements due to certain risks and uncertainties. These potential risks and uncertainties relate to, among other things, the cyclical nature of our business; adverse economic and market conditions, including inflation; material disruption in the movement of rail traffic for deliveries; fluctuating costs of raw materials, including steel and aluminum; delays in the delivery of raw materials; our ability to maintain relationships with our suppliers of railcar components; our reliance upon a small number of customers that represent a large percentage of our sales; the variable purchase patterns of our customers and the timing of completion; delivery and customer acceptance of orders; the highly competitive nature of our industry; the risk of lack of acceptance of our new railcar offerings; potential unexpected changes in laws, rules, and regulatory requirements, including tariffs and trade barriers (including recent United States tariffs imposed or threatened to be imposed on China, Canada, Mexico and other countries and any retaliatory actions taken by such countries); and other competitive factors. The factors listed above are not exhaustive. New factors emerge from time to time that may cause our business not to develop as we expect, and it is not possible for us to predict all of them. We expressly disclaim any duty to provide updates to any forward-looking statements made in this press release, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
RICHMOND, Va.–(BUSINESS WIRE)– Lucky Strike Entertainment (NYSE: LUCK), one of the world’s premier operators of location-based entertainment, will report financial results for the third quarter of fiscal 2025 on Thursday, May 8, 2025, before the U.S. stock market opens. Management will discuss the results via webcast at 9:00 AM ET on the same day.
The live webcast, replay, and results presentation will be available in the Events & Presentations section of the Lucky Strike Entertainment Investor Relations website at IR.LuckyStrikeEnt.com.
About Lucky Strike Entertainment
Lucky Strike Entertainment is one of the world’s premier location-based entertainment platforms. With over 360 locations across North America, Lucky Strike Entertainment provides experiential offerings in bowling, amusements, water parks, and family entertainment centers. The company also owns the Professional Bowlers Association, the major league of bowling and a growing media property that boasts millions of fans around the globe. For more information on Lucky Strike Entertainment, please visit IR.LuckyStrikeEnt.com.
GEO-CM04S1 Demonstrates Durable T Cell and Antibody Responses in Healthy and Immunocompromised Populations
ATLANTA, GA, April 24, 2025 – GeoVax Labs, Inc. (Nasdaq: GOVX), a clinical-stage biotechnology company developing vaccines and immunotherapies for infectious diseases and cancer, today recapped the successful presentation of new clinical data on its multi-antigen SARS-CoV-2 vaccine candidate, GEO-CM04S1, delivered at the 25th Annual World Vaccine Congress in Washington, D.C.
The presentation, titled “Phase 2b Study Results That Evaluated and Compared GeoVax’s Multi-Antigen Vaccine Candidate (GEO-CM04S1) to an Approved Vaccine Against COVID-19,” was given by Don J. Diamond, Ph.D. on April 24, 2025. It highlighted results across several Phase 1 and 2 clinical trials, including studies involving healthy volunteers as well as immunocompromised patients such as stem cell transplant recipients and those with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL).
GEO-CM04S1, based on the synthetic Modified Vaccinia Ankara (MVA) vector platform, uniquely expresses both the Spike (S) and Nucleocapsid (N) antigens of SARS-CoV-2—resulting in broad and durable immune responses even in populations that have historically responded poorly to mRNA vaccines.
Key Highlights from the Clinical Data Presented
Robust Immune Response in Healthy Adults
In a Phase 1 trial, 100% of participants (34/34) seroconverted (i.e., produced antibodies) for Spike IgG, and 94% (32/34) for Nucleocapsid IgG.
98% (48/49) demonstrated a T cell response to either antigen following vaccination.
No serious safety concerns were reported across varying dose levels.
Comparable Immunogenicity at Lower Doses (Phase 2 Booster Trial)
Healthy volunteers who had previously received mRNA or protein-based COVID-19 vaccines were boosted with GEO-CM04S1 at two dose levels (10⁷ vs 10⁸ pfu).
Spike, RBD, and Nucleocapsid IgG antibody responses, as well as neutralization titers against multiple COVID-19 variants (including XBB.1.5), increased significantly at both dose levels with no meaningful differences between them.
T cell responses increased significantly post-vaccination, regardless of baseline immunity.
Superior Performance in Immunocompromised Populations
In stem cell transplant recipients, GEO-CM04S1 induced ELISA antibody titers and T cell responses that exceeded those observed in healthy volunteers.
In a randomized Phase 2 trial comparing GEO-CM04S1 to the Pfizer-BioNTech (Comirnaty®) vaccine in patients with Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia, GEO-CM04S1 demonstrated a significantly higher T cell response rate.
At Day 56 of the study: 6 of 15 patients in the GEO-CM04S1 arm achieved ≥3-fold increases in Spike or Nucleocapsid-specific T cells versus 2 of 14 in the Comirnaty arm.
The Data and Safety Monitoring Board (DSMB) recommended halting enrollment in the Pfizer arm due to underperformance, while continuing enrollment of the GEO-CM04S1 arm.
“We were pleased to share these promising results with global leaders in vaccinology,” said Don J. Diamond, Ph.D. “The data underscore the value of our dual-antigen approach, particularly for patients underserved by existing single-antigen vaccines. GEO-CM04S1 not only drives strong antibody and T cell immunity in healthy adults, but also in the immunocompromised—a population historically underserved by single-antigen mRNA vaccines.”
David A. Dodd, Chairman, President, and CEO of GeoVax, added: “The clinical performance of GEO-CM04S1 across diverse and high-risk populations supports our mission to deliver broad and lasting protection through next-generation vaccines. Our data continues to demonstrate strong, durable immune responses in both healthy and immunocompromised populations—a critical feature of our vaccine for public health preparedness. As we continue to advance this program, these results reinforce our confidence in the MVA platform as a foundation for addressing future public health threats.”
About GEO-CM04S1
GEO-CM04S1 is a next-generation COVID-19 vaccine based on the Modified Vaccinia Ankara (MVA) vector originally developed at City of Hope. Its multi-antigen design expresses both Spike and Nucleocapsid proteins of SARS-CoV-2, promoting broad, cross-reactive immunity. The vaccine is being evaluated in three ongoing Phase 2 clinical trials.
About GeoVax
GeoVax Labs, Inc. is a clinical-stage biotechnology company developing novel vaccines against infectious diseases and therapies for solid tumor cancers. The Company’s lead clinical program is GEO-CM04S1, a next-generation COVID-19 vaccine currently in three Phase 2 clinical trials, being evaluated as (1) a primary vaccine for immunocompromised patients such as those suffering from hematologic cancers and other patient populations for whom the current authorized COVID-19 vaccines are insufficient, (2) a booster vaccine in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and (3) a more robust, durable COVID-19 booster among healthy patients who previously received the mRNA vaccines. In oncology the lead clinical program is evaluating a novel oncolytic solid tumor gene-directed therapy, Gedeptin®, having recently completed a multicenter Phase 1/2 clinical trial for advanced head and neck cancers. The Company is also developing GEO-MVA, a vaccine targeting Mpox and smallpox. GeoVax has a strong IP portfolio in support of its technologies and product candidates, holding worldwide rights for its technologies and products. For more information about the current status of our clinical trials and other updates, visit our website: www.geovax.com.
Forward-Looking Statements
This release contains forward-looking statements regarding GeoVax’s business plans. The words “believe,” “look forward to,” “may,” “estimate,” “continue,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “should,” “plan,” “could,” “target,” “potential,” “is likely,” “will,” “expect” and similar expressions, as they relate to us, are intended to identify forward-looking statements. We have based these forward-looking statements largely on our current expectations and projections about future events and financial trends that we believe may affect our financial condition, results of operations, business strategy and financial needs. Actual results may differ materially from those included in these statements due to a variety of factors, including whether: GeoVax is able to obtain acceptable results from ongoing or future clinical trials of its investigational products, GeoVax’s immuno-oncology products and preventative vaccines can provoke the desired responses, and those products or vaccines can be used effectively, GeoVax’s viral vector technology adequately amplifies immune responses to cancer antigens, GeoVax can develop and manufacture its immuno-oncology products and preventative vaccines with the desired characteristics in a timely manner, GeoVax’s immuno-oncology products and preventative vaccines will be safe for human use, GeoVax’s vaccines will effectively prevent targeted infections in humans, GeoVax’s immuno-oncology products and preventative vaccines will receive regulatory approvals necessary to be licensed and marketed, GeoVax raises required capital to complete development, there is development of competitive products that may be more effective or easier to use than GeoVax’s products, GeoVax will be able to enter into favorable manufacturing and distribution agreements, and other factors, over which GeoVax has no control.
Further information on our risk factors is contained in our periodic reports on Form 10-Q and Form 10-K that we have filed and will file with the SEC. Any forward-looking statement made by us herein speaks only as of the date on which it is made. Factors or events that could cause our actual results to differ may emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for us to predict all of them. We undertake no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as may be required by law.
NEW YORK, April 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Xcel Brands (NASDAQ: XELB), an industry leading media and consumer products company specializing in building influencer-driven brands through live streaming and social commerce, is thrilled to announce a strategic partnership and a $9 Million strategic investment from United Trademark Group (UTG), a global leader in brand development and licensing.
UTG specializes in mergers, acquisitions, brand strategy, and digital innovation; partnering with top-tier companies worldwide to maximize brand value and unlock new growth opportunities. They empower brands and merchants by providing the infrastructure and operational expertise—across design, manufacturing, distribution, and retail.
UTG believes in elevating brands beyond products, crafting immersive experiences that resonate with consumers. Leveraging emerging media, social platforms, and cutting-edge retail technology, UTG continuously redefines how brands connect with audiences. Whether through DTC, interactive campaigns, influencer collaborations, or experiential retail, they create dynamic, consumer-driven brand experiences.
“We are excited to work with Xcel Brands,” said Alex Wang, Co-Founder and Chairman of UTG. “By combining their expertise in social commerce and our shared vision and commitment to product and innovation, we look forward to building the next generation of great brands.”
“We are very excited to partner with UTG,” stated Robert W. D’Loren, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Xcel Brands. “There is tremendous synergy between our companies’ goals, missions, and visions for the future of the global consumer sector. With UTG’s global expertise and our shared commitment to innovation, brand building and leveraging pioneering new technologies, we see great opportunities on the horizon and look forward to unlocking new possibilities together.”
This collaboration reinforces Xcel’s commitment to transforming how consumers engage with the brands they love. Both UTG and Xcel Brands are rooted in a social-first, creator-driven approach—leveraging the power of digital communities, cultural relevance, and influencer partnerships to build brands that truly resonate with today’s consumer. Visit www.xcelbrands.com for more information.
Consensus, an investment bank focused on the consumer products sector (www.Consensusadvisors.com), advised UTG on this transaction.
About Xcel Brands Xcel Brands, Inc. (NASDAQ: XELB) is a media and consumer products company engaged in the design, licensing, marketing, live streaming, and social commerce sales of branded apparel, footwear, accessories, fine jewelry, home goods and other consumer products, and the acquisition of dynamic consumer lifestyle brands. Xcel was founded in 2011 with a vision to reimagine shopping, entertainment, and social media as social commerce. Xcel owns the Halston, Judith Ripka, and C. Wonder brands, as well as the Tower Hill by Christie Brinkley co-branded collaboration, and holds noncontrolling interests in the Isaac Mizrahi brand and Orme Live. Xcel also owns and manages the Longaberger brand through its controlling interest in Longaberger Licensing LLC. Xcel has recently announced the launch of new pet brand, Trust-Respect-Love by Cesar Millan and bakeware and cooking brand with Gemma Stafford. Xcel is pioneering a true modern consumer products sales strategy which includes the promotion and sale of products under its brands through interactive television, digital live-stream shopping, social commerce, brick-and-mortar retail, and e-commerce channels to be everywhere its customers shop. The company’s brands have generated in excess of $5 billion in retail sales via livestreaming in interactive television and digital channels alone, growing social media presence of approximately 40 million followers across their brand profile and talent, and over 20,000 hours of livestream content production time and social commerce. Headquartered in New York City, Xcel Brands is led by an executive team with significant live streaming, production, merchandising, design, marketing, retailing, and licensing experience, and a proven track record of success in elevating branded consumer products companies. www.xcelbrands.com
About UTG United Trademark Group (UTG) is a global leader in consumer brands, headquartered in Shanghai, China, with offices in Toronto, Paris, and Milan. Leveraging world-class product development, expert supply chain capabilities, and an unrivaled retail distribution network in China, UTG has transformed multiple brands into household names across the region.
Currently managing a diverse portfolio of over 10 brands, UTG generates more than $1.5 billion in annual retail sales across 12 countries. Our offerings span a wide range of industries, including lifestyle apparel, footwear, accessories, and more. Through a mix of owned and licensed brands, we develop innovative lifestyle and fashion products that resonate with consumers around the world.
UTG is committed to building brands that go beyond products, creating lifestyles that connect people to the activities and experiences they love.
CHARLOTTE, N.C., April 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — NN, Inc. (NASDAQ: NNBR), a global diversified industrial company that engineers and manufactures high-precision components and assemblies, announced today that it will release its first quarter 2025 financial results for the period ended March 31st, 2025, after the close of the market on Wednesday, May 7th, 2025. The Company will hold a related conference call on Thursday, May 8th, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. E.T. Participants on the call are asked to register five to ten minutes prior to the scheduled start time by dialing 1-877-255-4315 and from outside the U.S. at 1-412-317-6579.
The conference call will be webcast simultaneously and in its entirety through the NN, Inc. Investor Relations website. Shareholders, media representatives and others may participate in the webcast by registering through the Investor Relations section on the company’s website at https://investors.nninc.com/.
For those who are unavailable to listen to the live call, a replay will be available shortly after the call on NN’s website through May 8th, 2026.
About NN, Inc. NN, Inc., a global diversified industrial company, combines advanced engineering and production capabilities with in-depth materials science expertise to design and manufacture high-precision components and assemblies for a variety of markets on a global basis. Headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina, NN has facilities in North America, Europe, South America, and Asia. For more information about the company and its products, please visit www.nninc.com.
Investor Relations: Joe Caminiti or Stephen Poe NNBR@alpha-ir.com 312-445-2870
Norovirus GII.17 variants have overtaken GII.4 as the most prevalent strain and significantly increased norovirus outbreaks in the U.S. and European countries in 2024-2025
Cocrystal Pharma’s pan-viral protease inhibitor CDI-988 shows superior broad-spectrum antiviral activity against major norovirus variants including GII.4 and GII.17 strains
Company reported favorable safety and tolerability of CDI-988 in Phase 1 and plans to initiate a human challenge study in 2025 for the treatment and prevention of norovirus infection
BOTHELL, Wash., April 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Cocrystal Pharma, Inc. (Nasdaq: COCP) (“Cocrystal” or the “Company”) announces that its investigative drug candidate CDI-988 was shown to bind to the highly conserved region of the GII.17 protease with excellent potency, similar to that shown across a range of GII.4 norovirus variants that had been the dominant worldwide strains until this year. The high resolution GII.17 protease crystal structures used in determining CDI-988’s activity were obtained using the Company’s proprietary structure-based platform technology. Cocrystal plans to initiate a human norovirus challenge study in 2025 in the U.S. to evaluate CDI-988 as a potential prevention and treatment of norovirus infection.
“Norovirus is the most common cause of acute gastroenteritis worldwide, yet there are no approved antiviral treatments or vaccines available to combat it,” said Sam Lee, Ph.D., Cocrystal’s President and co-CEO. “Norovirus antiviral and vaccine development has been extremely challenging due to high diversity among variants that include 10 genogroups and 49 genotypes. We are gratified to have determined the first crystal structure of GII.17 protease and demonstrated broad-spectrum antiviral activity of CDI-988 against newly circulating major norovirus GII.17 variants. Based on a novel mechanism of action and superior broad-spectrum antiviral activity, CDI-988 is a compelling candidate for advancement as a first-in-class oral antiviral to be used for both prevention and treatment of norovirus infection.”
Pan-Viral Inhibitor CDI-988 CDI-988 is a protease inhibitor specifically designed and developed as a broad-spectrum antiviral inhibitor to a highly conserved region in the active site of 3CL viral proteases. Based on a novel mechanism of action and superior broad-spectrum antiviral activity, CDI-988 is a compelling candidate for advancement as a first-in-class oral treatment for both noroviruses and coronaviruses. The Company has completed a single-center, randomized, double-blind Phase 1 study in healthy adults evaluating safety, tolerability and pharmacokinetics including a food-effect cohort of orally administered CDI-988 compared with placebo.
Structure-Based Platform Technology Cocrystal’s proprietary structural biology, along with its expertise in enzymology and medicinal chemistry, enable its development of novel antiviral agents. The Company’s platform provides a three-dimensional structure of inhibitor complexes at near-atomic resolution, providing immediate insight to guide Structure Activity Relationships. This helps to identify novel binding sites and allows for a rapid turnaround of structural information through highly automated X-ray data processing and refinement. The goal of this technology is to facilitate the development of best-in-class antiviral therapies that have fast onset of action and/or shortened treatment time, are safe, well tolerated and easy to administer, are effective against all viral subtypes that cause disease and have a high barrier to viral resistance.
About Cocrystal Pharma, Inc. Cocrystal Pharma, Inc. is a clinical-stage biotechnology company discovering and developing novel antiviral therapeutics that target the replication process of noroviruses, influenza viruses, coronaviruses (including SARS-CoV-2), and hepatitis C viruses. Cocrystal employs unique structure-based technologies and Nobel Prize-winning expertise to create first- and best-in-class antiviral drugs. For further information about Cocrystal, please visit www.cocrystalpharma.com.
Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including statements regarding Cocrystal’s plans to initiate a human challenge study in 2025 for its oral norovirus product candidate, the potential efficacy of such product candidate, and the potential market for such product candidate. The words “believe,” “may,” “estimate,” “continue,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “should,” “plan,” “could,” “target,” “potential,” “is likely,” “will,” “expect” and similar expressions, as they relate to us, are intended to identify forward-looking statements. We have based these forward-looking statements largely on our current expectations and projections about future events. Some or all of the events anticipated by these forward-looking statements may not occur. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ from those in the forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, our need for additional capital to fund our operations over the next 12 months, risks relating to our ability to obtain regulatory authority for and proceed with clinical trials including the recruiting of volunteers for such studies by our clinical research organizations and vendors, the results of such studies, our collaboration partners’ technology and software performing as expected, general risks arising from clinical studies, receipt of regulatory approvals, regulatory changes, and potential development of effective treatments and/or vaccines by competitors, and potential mutations in a virus we are targeting that may result in variants that are resistant to a product candidate we develop, the impact of the Trump Administration’s policies and actions on regulations affecting the FDA and other healthcare agencies and potential staffing issues resulting therefrom, as well as other government actions such as tariffs which may cause delays or force us to incur additional costs to proceed with our development programs. Further information on our risk factors is contained in our filings with the SEC, including our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024. Any forward-looking statement made by us herein speaks only as of the date on which it is made. Factors or events that could cause our actual results to differ may emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for us to predict all of them. We undertake no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as may be required by law.
TNX-801 is a single-dose,live virus vaccine in development to protect against mpox and smallpox
TNX-801 protects immunocompromised animals from a lethal challenge with clade IIa monkeypox virus
Durability of TNX-801 vaccination shown by six-month protection of animals from a lethal challenge with rabbitpox
Tolerability of TNX-801 demonstrated in immunocompromised animals by no spreading to blood or tissues, even at high doses
CHATHAM, N.J., April 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Tonix Pharmaceuticals Holding Corp. (Nasdaq: TNXP) (Tonix or the Company), a fully-integrated biopharmaceutical company with marketed products and a pipeline of development candidates, presented data in an oral presentation at the World Vaccine Congress Washington 2025, held April 21-24, 2025, in Washington, D.C. The presentation titled, “A Novel Single-Dose, Attenuated Live, Minimally Replicative Mpox Vaccine”, highlighted positive preclinical efficacy data, demonstrating that TNX-801 protected animals from mpox and rabbitpox and was well tolerated, even in immunocompromised animals. A copy of the Company’s presentation is available under the Scientific Presentations tab of the Tonix website at www.tonixpharma.com.
“TNX-801 shows promise as a potential mpox and smallpox vaccine by providing protective immunity to animals with a single-dose,” said Seth Lederman, M.D., Chief Executive Officer of Tonix Pharmaceuticals. “TNX-801 was generally well tolerated, even in immunocompromised animals. The new data show durable six-month protection against a lethal challenge with rabbitpox virus and protection of immunocompromised animals against a lethal challenge with monkeypox clade IIa virus. These new data build upon prior studies showing protection of animals against a lethal challenge with intratracheal clade Ia mpox virus. In all of these studies, after a single dose vaccination, TNX-801 prevented both clinical disease and formation of lesions.”
Dr. Lederman continued, “The ongoing clade IIb mpox epidemic that started in 2022, and the more recent and ongoing clade Ib mpox epidemic, highlight the need for additional vaccine options, particularly single-dose options. Both the 2022 clade IIb and the 2024 clade Ib mpox epidemics have been declared by the World Health Organization (WHO) to be Public Health Emergencies of International Concern (PHEICs). We believe TNX-801 has the potential to make an impact towards preventing mpox and controlling future mpox epidemics.”
TNX-801 is a minimally replicative, live-virus vaccine based on synthesized horsepox that has been shown to provide single-dose immune protection against a monkeypox challenge with better tolerability than 20th century vaccinia live-virus vaccines in animals. In September 2024, Tonix announced that the WHO’s preferred target product profile (TPP), released at the WHO sponsored Mpox Research and Innovation Scientific Conference, aligns with the characteristics of TNX-801. Key elements of the WHO draft TPP include single-dose, durable protection, administration without special equipment, and stability at ambient temperature. Other potential beneficial characteristics include the ability to limit forward transmission, use in case-contact vaccination strategies and suitability for use in immunocompromised individuals.
About TNX-801*
TNX-801 (recombinant horsepox virus) is a single-dose, attenuated, minimally replicative, live virus vaccine based on horsepox in pre-clinical development to prevent mpox and smallpox. Tonix reported positive preclinical efficacy data, demonstrating that TNX-801 vaccination protected non-human primates against lethal challenge with monkeypox. After a single dose vaccination, TNX-801 prevented clinical disease and lesions and decreased shedding in the mouth and lungs of non-human primates. The findings are consistent with mucosal immunity and suggest the ability to block forward transmission, similar to Dr. Edward Jenner’s vaccine, which eradicated smallpox and kept mpox out of the human population. TNX-801 is based on synthesized horsepox which is believed to be more closely related to Dr. Jenner’s vaccine than 20th century vaccinia viruses.6 Smallpox vaccines descended from Jenner’s vaccine used prior to 1900 would be called horsepox by modern nomenclature. TNX-801 is delivered percutaneously with only one dose and therefore may achieve higher rates of community protection than two-dose vaccines by eliminating drop-out between doses and limiting forward transmission. Tonix has received official written response from a Type B pre-Investigational New Drug Application (IND) meeting with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to develop TNX-801 as a potential vaccine to protect against mpox disease and smallpox. Tonix has announced a collaboration with the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) to design, plan and seek regulatory approval for a Phase I clinical study of TNX-801 in Kenya. The Company believes TNX-801 has the potential to make a global impact on mpox and the risk of smallpox because of its durable T-cell immune response, the potential to manufacture at scale, and the use of a lower dose than non-replicating vaccines. The FDA-approved non-replicating mpox vaccine Jynneos® requires two doses and provides a relatively short duration of protection. FDA also recently approved ACAM2000, a live, replicating vaccinia vaccine for prevention of mpox. ACAM200 is a clone from DryVax®, a 20th century vaccinia vaccine derived from the NYCBH strain. Pre-clinical results from an mRNA vaccine recently showed some protection from a Clade I monkeypox challenge, but with multiple break-through lesions in vaccinated animals.
About Tonix Pharmaceuticals Holding Corp.*
Tonix is a fully integrated biopharmaceutical 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 CNS portfolio includes TNX-1300 (cocaine esterase), a biologic in Phase 2 development designed to treat cocaine intoxication that has FDA Breakthrough Therapy designation, and its development is supported by a grant from the National Institute on Drug Abuse. 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. Department of Defense’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.
TROY, Mich., April 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Kelly, a leading global specialty talent solutions provider, will release its first-quarter earnings before the market opens on Thursday, May 8, 2025. In conjunction with its earnings release, Kelly will publish a financial presentation and host a live webcast of a conference call with financial analysts at 9 a.m. ET on May 8 to review the results from the quarter and answer questions.
The presentation and a link to the live webcast will be accessible through the Company’s public website on the Investor Relations page under Events & Presentations. The webcast will be recorded, and a replay will be available within one hour of completion of the event through the same link as the live webcast.
About Kelly
Kelly Services, Inc. (Nasdaq: KELYA, KELYB) helps companies recruit and manage skilled workers and helps job seekers find great work. Since inventing the staffing industry in 1946, we have become experts in the many industries and local and global markets we serve. With a network of suppliers and partners around the world, we connect more than 400,000 people with work every year. Our suite of outsourcing and consulting services ensures companies have the people they need, when and where they are needed most. Headquartered in Troy, Michigan, we empower businesses and individuals to access limitless opportunities in industries such as science, engineering, technology, education, manufacturing, retail, finance, and energy. Revenue in 2024 was $4.3 billion. Learn more at kellyservices.com.
BOCA RATON, Fla.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Apr. 23, 2025– The ODP Corporation (NASDAQ:ODP) (“ODP,” or the “Company”), a leading provider of products, services, and technology solutions to businesses and consumers, will announce first quarter 2025 financial results before the market open on Wednesday, May 7th, 2025. The ODP Corporation will webcast a call with financial analysts and investors that day at 9:00 am Eastern Time which will be accessible to the media and the general public.
To listen to the conference call via webcast, please visit The ODP Corporation’s Investor Relations website at investor.theodpcorp.com. A replay of the webcast will be available approximately two hours following the event. A copy of the earnings press release, supplemental financial disclosures and presentation will also be available on the website.
About The ODP Corporation The ODP Corporation (NASDAQ:ODP) is a leading provider of products and services through an integrated business-to-business (B2B) distribution platform and omni-channel presence, which includes supply chain and distribution operations, dedicated sales professionals, online presence, and a network of Office Depot and OfficeMax retail stores. Through its operating companies ODP Business Solutions, LLC; Office Depot, LLC; and Veyer, LLC, The ODP Corporation empowers every business, professional, and consumer to achieve more every day. For more information, visit theodpcorp.com.
ODP and ODP Business Solutions are trademarks of ODP Business Solutions, LLC. Office Depot is a trademark of The Office Club, LLC. OfficeMax is a trademark of OMX, Inc. Veyer is a trademark of Veyer, LLC. Grand&Toy is a trademark of Grand & Toy, LLC in Canada. Any other product or company names mentioned herein are the trademarks of their respective owners.
Earnings Release Scheduled for Wednesday, May 7, 2025 Before the Market Opens
Conference Call Scheduled for Wednesday, May 7, 2025 at 11:00 AM (Eastern Time)
BOCA RATON, Fla.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Apr. 23, 2025– The GEO Group, Inc. (NYSE:GEO) (“GEO”) will release its first quarter 2025 financial results on Wednesday, May 7, 2025 before the market opens. GEO has scheduled a conference call and simultaneous webcast for 11:00 AM (Eastern Time) on Wednesday, May 7, 2025.
Hosting the call for GEO will be George Zoley, Executive Chairman of the Board, J. David Donahue, Chief Executive Officer, and Mark Suchinski, Chief Financial Officer.
To participate in the teleconference, please contact one of the following numbers 5 minutes prior to the scheduled start time:
In addition, a live audio webcast of the conference call may be accessed on the Webcasts section of GEO’s investor relations home page at investors.geogroup.com. A webcast replay will remain available on the website for one year.
A telephonic replay will also be available through May 14, 2025. The replay numbers are 1-877-344-7529 (U.S.) and 1-412-317-0088 (International). The passcode for the telephonic replay is 7721870. If you have any questions, please contact GEO at 1-866-301-4436.
Atlanta, GA, April 23, 2025 – GeoVax Labs, Inc. (Nasdaq: GOVX), a clinical-stage biotechnology company developing immunotherapies and vaccines against cancer and infectious diseases, today announced that it will report first quarter 2025 financial results on Thursday, May 1, 2025, after the close of U.S. markets. Following the release, management will host a live conference call and webcast, including Q&A, at 4:30 p.m. ET to provide a corporate update and discuss financial results.
Conference Call Details
To access the live conference call, participants may register here. The live audio webcast of the call will be available under “Events and Presentations” in the Investor Relations section of the GeoVax website at geovax.com/investors. To participate via telephone, please register in advance here. Upon registration, all telephone participants will receive a confirmation email detailing how to join the conference call, including the dial-in number along with a unique passcode and registrant ID that can be used to access the call. While not required, it is recommended that participants join the call ten minutes prior to the scheduled start. An archive of the audio webcast will be available on GeoVax’s website approximately two hours after the conference call and will remain available for at least 90 days following the event.
About GeoVax
GeoVax Labs, Inc. is a clinical-stage biotechnology company developing novel vaccines against infectious diseases and therapies for solid tumor cancers. The Company’s lead clinical program is GEO-CM04S1, a next-generation COVID-19 vaccine currently in three Phase 2 clinical trials, being evaluated as (1) a primary vaccine for immunocompromised patients such as those suffering from hematologic cancers and other patient populations for whom the current authorized COVID-19 vaccines are insufficient, (2) a booster vaccine in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and (3) a more robust, durable COVID-19 booster among healthy patients who previously received the mRNA vaccines. In oncology the lead clinical program is evaluating a novel oncolytic solid tumor gene-directed therapy, Gedeptin®, having recently completed a multicenter Phase 1/2 clinical trial for advanced head and neck cancers. The Company is also developing GEO-MVA, a vaccine targeting Mpox and smallpox. GeoVax has a strong IP portfolio in support of its technologies and product candidates, holding worldwide rights for its technologies and products. For more information about the current status of our clinical trials and other updates, visit our website: www.geovax.com.
