FreightCar America (RAIL) – Multi-Year Tank Car Conversion Contract Provides a Solid Path Toward Tank Car Production


Friday, August 02, 2024

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

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

Ensuring the safe transportation of flammable liquids. The completed tank cars will receive new exterior tank jackets, thermal protection, full height head shields, top fittings protection and upgraded bottom outlet valves. As part of a federally mandated program, all tank cars transporting Class 3 flammable liquids, such as refined products, crude oil and ethanol, are required to meet DOT-117 or equivalent specifications by May 1, 2029.


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*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. 

Commercial Vehicle Group (CVGI) – A Strategic Sale


Friday, August 02, 2024

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

Joshua Zoepfel, Research Associate, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

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

Cab Structures. Yesterday, after the market close, Commercial Vehicle Group (CVG) announced the sale of its Kings Mountain, NC Cab Structures business. This is another step in the Company’s strategic plan to lessen the impact of the highly cyclical Class 8 truck business.

Details. Net proceeds of the transaction are expected to be $40 million, with closure in the second half of 2024. We expect the majority of the net proceeds to be used for debt paydown and other general corporate purposes. CVG did not release unit financial performance, but we do expect management to update its full-year 2024 outlook to reflect the impact of the business unit divesture during its 2Q24 earnings conference call on August 6th.


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*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. 

ACCO Brands (ACCO) – Reports 2Q24 Results


Friday, August 02, 2024

ACCO Brands Corporation is one of the world’s largest designers, marketers and manufacturers of branded academic, consumer and business products. Our widely recognized brands include AT-A-GLANCE®, Esselte®, Five Star®, GBC®, Kensington®, Leitz®, Mead®, PowerA®, Quartet®, Rapid®, Rexel®, Swingline®, Tilibra®, and many others. Our products are sold in more than 100 countries around the world. More information about ACCO Brands, the Home of Great Brands Built by Great People, can be found at www.accobrands.com.

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

Joshua Zoepfel, Research Associate, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

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

2Q24 Results. Reported results continue to be impacted by soft demand for ACCO products. In addition, the previously disclosed exit of certain lower margin business, primarily in the back-to-school categories, and a one-time impairment charge related to goodwill and intangible assets negatively impacted reported results.

Details. Revenue of $438.3 million was down 11.2% on a reported basis y-o-y, with comp sales off 10.2%, reflecting softer global business and consumer demand, although computer accessories saw growth. We had projected revenue of $455 million, in-line with consensus. Reported operating loss was $111.2 million reflecting $165.2 million of non-cash impairment charges. Adjusted operating income was $64.6 million, down from $66.2 million in 2Q23. GAAP net loss was $125.2 million, or $1.29/sh, with adjusted net income of $36.6 million, or $0.37/sh. In 2Q23, ACCO reported net income of $26.4 million, or $0.27/sh, and adjusted net income of $36.5 million, or $0.38/sh.


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MustGrow Biologics Corp. (MGROF) – Tack On Another Approval


Thursday, August 01, 2024

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

Joshua Zoepfel, Research Associate, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

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

Another State. MustGrow announced the Company has received the Idaho State Department of Agriculture approval for TerraSante, allowing the product to commence sales in the state. The state follows the existing Organic OMRI Listed certifications in Oregon and Washington. Idaho now joins the list of states to authorize product sales, including the aforementioned Oregon and Washington and California.

Market Size. Idaho provided approximately $1.3 billion in crop production from potatoes in 2023, an increase from $1.2 billion in 2022, as potatoes are the state’s top crop. Other commodities the state provides includes barley, alfalfa hay, peppermint oil, and food trout. Overall, the state’s crop production was $3.3 billion in 2021.


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*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. 

GeoVax Labs (GOVX) – Gedeptin Phase 2 Head and Neck Trial Design Announced


Thursday, August 01, 2024

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

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

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

Gedeptin Will Be Tested As A Neoadjuvent. GeoVax announced the design of the Phase 2 trial testing Gedeptin in head and neck cancer. As planned, a Clinical Advisory Panel completed its data review from the clinical trials and made its design recommendation. The trial will test Gedeptin in combination with an immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) before surgery in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) patients after first recurrence. The trial is expected to start in 1H25.

Trial Will Use A Single Cycle Of Gedeptin Before Surgery. The trial will enroll patients with HNSCC after first relapse. Patients will be treated with a single cycle of Gedeptin/fludarabine and a checkpoint inhibitor, followed by surgery. This adds Gedeptin’s intracellular activation of a chemotherapy agent to kill cancer cells with the immune response of the checkpoint inhibitor. The planned enrollment is 36 patients with a primary endpoint of pathological response rate.


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*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. 

FAT Brands (FAT) – Overview of 2Q24 Operating Results


Thursday, August 01, 2024

FAT Brands (NASDAQ: FAT) is a leading global franchising company that strategically acquires, markets, and develops fast casual, quick-service, casual dining, and polished casual dining concepts around the world. The Company currently owns 17 restaurant brands: Round Table Pizza, Fatburger, Marble Slab Creamery, Johnny Rockets, Fazoli’s, Twin Peaks, Great American Cookies, Hot Dog on a Stick, Buffalo’s Cafe & Express, Hurricane Grill & Wings, Pretzelmaker, Elevation Burger, Native Grill & Wings, Yalla Mediterranean and Ponderosa and Bonanza Steakhouses, and franchises and owns over 2,300 units worldwide. For more information on FAT Brands, please visit www.fatbrands.com.

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

Joshua Zoepfel, Research Associate, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

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

Note: FAT Brands has entered into an Equity Distribution Agreement with Noble Capital Markets relating to the potential sale of up to $10.335 million of Class A common stock and/or 8.25% Series B Cumulative Preferred stock. As a result, this report will just focus on a review of FAT Brands’ second quarter operating results.

2Q24 Results. FAT’s 2Q24 results were very similar to 1Q24 results. While we had hoped for some sequential improvement, given the overall industry challenges seen so far this reporting season, relatively flat results are not too bad. Revenue totaled $152 million, flat sequentially and up 42.4% y-o-y. Adjusted EBITDA totaled $15.7 million versus $23.1 million last year, with the decline reflecting lower employee retention credits this quarter. FAT reported a net loss of $41.3 million, or $2.43 per share, compared to a loss of $8.7 million, or a loss of $0.53/sh in 2Q23.


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DLH Holdings (DLHC) – A Look into the Third Quarter


Thursday, August 01, 2024

DLH delivers improved health and readiness solutions for federal programs through research, development, and innovative care processes. The Company’s experts in public health, performance evaluation, and health operations solve the complex problems faced by civilian and military customers alike, leveraging digital transformation, artificial intelligence, advanced analytics, cloud-based applications, telehealth systems, and more. With over 2,300 employees dedicated to the idea that “Your Mission is Our Passion,” DLH brings a unique combination of government sector experience, proven methodology, and unwavering commitment to public health to improve the lives of millions. For more information, visit www.DLHcorp.com.

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

Joshua Zoepfel, Research Associate, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

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

3Q Results. Revenue was reported at $100.7 million, below our estimate of $103 million and down from the prior year of $102.2 million. Net income was $1.1 million, or $0.08 per diluted share, compared to $1.7 million, or $0.12 last year. EBITDA was roughly $10.0 million versus $11.4 million in the prior year, or a margin of 10.0% and 11.1%, respectfully, in range of management’s expectations.

Delays. The GRSi acquisition continues to experience anticipated runoff of DLH’s small business set-aside awards, as these contracts transitioned towards small businesses impacting overall revenue. The government evaluation process also has resulted in delays for new business revenue for the Company in fiscal 2024. However, with the budgets passed earlier in the year for various government departments, including the VA and HHS, we expect DLH to be awarded new contracts sooner rather than later.


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Codere Online (CDRO) – Casino Games A Key Driver


Thursday, August 01, 2024

Codere Online refers, collectively, to Codere Online Luxembourg, S.A. and its subsidiaries. Codere Online launched in 2014 as part of the renowned casino operator Codere Group. Codere Online offers online sports betting and online casino through its state-of-the art website and mobile application. Codere currently operates in its core markets of Spain, Italy, Mexico, Colombia, Panama and the City of Buenos Aires (Argentina). Codere Online’s online business is complemented by Codere Group’s physical presence throughout Latin America, forming the foundation of the leading omnichannel gaming and casino presence in the region.

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

Patrick McCann, CFA, Research Analyst, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

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

Adj. EBITDA positive. Q2 overachieved expectations with revenue growth a strong 39% to €54.4 million (vs our €47.6 million estimate) and with positive adj. EBITDA of €1.3 million (vs. our flat estimate). The results benefited from a favorable sports calendar, as well as strong customer growth for its casino games. Casino revenue accounted for 59% of total company revenue, up from 56% in Q1. 

Spain and Mexico deliver strong revenue performance. The company exhibited favorable operating momentum in its latest Q2 quarter. Net gaming revenue increased a solid 39% to €54.4 million, nicely above our estimate of €47.6 million. The quarterly revenue represented a sequential quarterly revenue improvement from the first quarter at €53.0 million and an acceleration in revenue growth from 34% in Q1. 


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*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. 

SKYX Platforms (SKYX) – Coming to Home Depot

Patrick McCann, CFA, Research Analyst, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

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

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

Collaboration with Home Depot. Yesterday, the company announced a collaboration with Home Depot, the industry leader in the home improvement market. The announcement marks the first time the company’s products will be available at a big box retailer. In addition, all of the company’s current product offerings will be available on the Home Depot website. 

Step forward for professional sales channel. In addition to serving retail consumers, Home Depot is a leading supplier for professional contractors. As such, we believe the inclusion of SKYX products at Home Depot could accelerate the adoption of the smart ceiling receptacle and SkyPlug products by commercial contractors.


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*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. 

Alliance Resource Partners (ARLP) – ARLP Updates 2024 Guidance; Revising Estimates


Wednesday, July 31, 2024

ARLP is a diversified natural resource company that generates operating and royalty income from coal produced by its mining complexes and royalty income from mineral interests it owns in strategic oil & gas producing regions in the United States, primarily the Permian, Anadarko and Williston basins. ARLP currently produces coal from seven mining complexes its subsidiaries operate in Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Maryland and West Virginia. ARLP also operates a coal loading terminal on the Ohio River at Mount Vernon, Indiana. ARLP markets its coal production to major domestic and international utilities and industrial users and is currently the second largest coal producer in the eastern United States. In addition, ARLP is positioning itself as an energy provider for the future by leveraging its core technology and operating competencies to make strategic investments in the fast growing energy and infrastructure transition.

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

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

Second quarter financial results. Alliance reported second quarter EBITDA and earnings per unit (EPU) of $177.7 million and $0.77, respectively, compared to $249.2 million and $1.30 during the prior year period. We had forecast EBITDA and EPU of $196.9 million and $0.86. Revenue declined 7.6% to $593.4 million due to lower coal sales volumes, which declined 11.8% due to transportation delays that were partially offset by higher coal sales price realizations which increased 3.8% to $65.30 per ton. Alliance experienced a $3.7 million, or $0.03 per unit, decrease in the fair value of the partnership’s digital assets. Roughly 500,000 tons of coal sales were deferred and are expected to be made up during the remainder of the year.

Updated 2024 corporate guidance. Management updated its 2024 guidance which calls for lower coal sales volumes and higher oil and gas royalty volumes. The lower coal sales guidance is based on uncertainty associated with coal export sales. While the guidance for coal sales volume was lowered, sales price realization expectations were increased at the midpoint of guidance.


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*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. 

Xcel Brands (XELB) – A Set Up For 2025


Tuesday, July 30, 2024

Xcel Brands, Inc. 1333 Broadway 10th Floor New York, NY 10018 United States https:/Sector(s): Consumer Cyclical Industry: Apparel Manufacturing Full Time Employees: 84 Key Executives Name Title Pay Exercised Year Born Mr. Robert W. D’Loren Chairman, Pres & CEO 1.27M N/A 1958 Mr. James F. Haran CFO, Principal Financial & Accou

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.

In line Q2 preliminary results. The company announced limited, preliminary operating results from Q2. Revenue in the quarter is expected to be $3.0 million, modestly below our estimate of $3.6 million, and adj. EBITDA of negative $40,000 was in line with our estimate of negative $64,000. 

LOGO sale finalized. The sale of the LOGO brand was finalized on June 30, and the company is expected to recognized a one time gain of $3.8 million. We estimate that Lori Goldstein accounted for roughly $5 million in annual revenues and $2 million in adj. EBITDA. However, after earn-outs, we estimate that the company was losing money on the brand.


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*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. 

Eledon Pharmaceuticals (ELDN) – Eledon Announces Patient Enrollment Milestone and Confirms Timeframe For Completion


Tuesday, July 30, 2024

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.

Eledon Announced It Has Reached Two-Thirds Patient Enrollment Milestone. Eledon has enrolled its 80th patient in the Phase 2 BESTOW trial testing tegoprubart against tacrolimus for prevention of kidney transplant rejection. The trial is expected to reach its full enrollment of 120 patients by YE2024 as expected.

The BESTOW Trial Is Designed To Compare Tegoprubart To Tacrolimus. The Phase 2 BESTOW trial is an open-label active-comparator trial comparing tegoprubart directly against tacrolimus, the standard of care in kidney transplantation. The primary endpoint is superior mean eGFR (a measure of kidney graft function) at 12 months post-transplant, with additional endpoints to provide clinically meaningful measures for comparison with tacrolimus.


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*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. 

V2X (VVX) – Some New Awards; Refined Projections


Monday, July 29, 2024

For more than 70 years, Vectrus has provided critical mission support for our customers’ toughest operational challenges. As a high-performing organization with exceptional talent, deep domain knowledge, a history of long-term customer relationships, and groundbreaking technical expertise, we deliver innovative, mission-matched solutions for our military and government customers worldwide. Whether it’s base operations support, supply chain and logistics, IT mission support, engineering and digital integration, security, or maintenance, repair and overhaul, our customers count on us for on-target solutions that increase efficiency, reduce costs, improve readiness, and strengthen national security. Vectrus is headquartered in Colorado Springs, Colo., and includes about 8,100 employees spanning 205 locations in 28 countries. In 2021, Vectrus generated sales of $1.8 billion. For more information, visit the company’s website at www.vectrus.com or connect with Vectrus on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.

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

Joshua Zoepfel, Research Associate, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

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

New Awards. Returning to a continuing theme, V2X recently has been awarded some significant new and re-compete business. We believe the awards demonstrate the Company’s ability to compete, and win, in the converged environment.

GMR Award. Notably, on July 22nd V2X secured a $48.5 million ID/IQ contract with the U.S. Army for V2X’s Gateway Mission Router. This is a significant award, in our view, as it highlights V2X’s ability to deliver cutting edge solutions to its partners and expands the number of platforms on which GMR can reside. In addition, margins on the GMR product should be additive to the Company’s overall margin profile.


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*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.