Is the Tesla-Bot Optimus Just a Fantasy



Could Telsa’s Robots Permanently Eliminate Labor Shortages?

 

Motivational experts tell us that if you have a goal you want to achieve, write it down, then it becomes better defined and “real.” They also tell us, if you tell others what you’re going to achieve, you’ll be even more likely to succeed. Elon Musk does this. He announces plans to provide something dramatic, like a Cybertruck, fully self-driving car, a colony on Mars, or a robot, years in advance; then he provides ongoing updates. Tesla’s earnings call this week provided him an opportunity to update us on the importance and status of the robot project.

 

Optimus

Optimus (Latin for “best”) is the “code-name” given to this  project at Telsa. Developing a robot to do dangerous, boring, or repetitive tasks would, in the mind of Tesla’s founder, revolutionize the economy, he believes there would not be labor shortages.   “If you think about the economy, it is — the foundation of the economy is labor,” he said. “Capital equipment is distilled labor. So what happens if you don’t actually have a labor shortage? I’m not sure what an economy even means at that point. That’s what Optimus is about, so [it’s] very important.”

Musk said Wednesday (January 26) he expects the Tesla-Bot could take years to come to market and perhaps will never become fully realized. The goal is to create a machine that can do what can now only be carried out by humans. While advances over the years in robotics have allowed a reduction in workers, there are still limitations with current machines that use existing technology.  Many more tasks will be done by robots in the future.

Elon the Showman

The Optimus robot project is the most recent example of Musk announcing his goals publicly, and with typical fanfare and showmanship. In addition to keeping himself on task, his announcing exciting Tesla (or SpaceX) products, envisioned for years into the future, helps to energize employees, excite customers, and of course, attract investors.

 

An Interesting Four-Year-Old
Elon Musk Quote from The Boring Company Website

The rumor that I’m secretly creating a zombie
apocalypse to generate demand for flamethrowers is completely false — — Elon
Musk (@elonmusk) January 28, 2018

 

The goals that Musk has in the past set out for any one of his companies, like building EVs for the masses, or reusable space-bound rockets, often require innovation that has not even been fully envisioned. For this reason, he often falls behind on many announced projects. Consumers and investors awaiting products have grown accustomed to delays that often last years. One of many examples of this was the “Autonomy Day” event in April 2019, Musk said the company would have one million autonomous “robotaxis” on the road in 2020. If you’re still waiting for a robotaxi to take you to the airport, you are many more years away from the experience.

About Optimus

The “Tesla Bot” is the “most important product” that Tesla is developing this year, said Tesla’s CEO on Wednesday’s fourth-quarter earnings call. This places it on the priority list ahead of the Cybertruck, Robotaxi, and other vehicles, including the Semi and the new Roadster. The Tesla Bot, “[it] has the potential to be more significant than the vehicle business over time.”

Take-Away

One thing that can be learned from one of the richest people in the world is how to stay motivated. The other is that failing to meet a goal, timeline, or even follow all the way through is not always important for success. Not unlike investing, where not every trade is a winner, and some securities need to be culled ahead of expectations, running an innovative business does not mean every project is a winner. Some projects need to veer in another direction because of unexpected circumstances, others halted, and others need an even higher priority than originally planned. It is presumed that the next generation of robots will help manufacturing businesses like Tesla. For this reason, a Tesla-Bot is doubly important to the company’s founder.

Paul Hoffman

Managing Editor, Channelchek

 

Suggested Reading



Tesla’s CEO Surprises Reporters with Views on Robots, Subsidies, and Longevity



Elon Musk’s Tesla Bot Raises Serious Concerns – But Probably Not The Ones You Think





Robotics and AI Are Being Tapped by Cannabis Growers



Social Skills Would Benefit Physical Skills in Robotics

 

Sources

https://www.inc.com/peter-economy/this-is-way-you-need-to-write-down-your-goals-for-faster-success.html.

https://news.yahoo.com/tesla-optimus-robot-probably-wont-be-a-big-profit-driver-wall-street-thinks-173528019.html).

https://www.boringcompany.com/not-a-flamethrower

 

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Release – CoreCivic Announces 2021 Fourth Quarter Earnings Release and Conference Call Dates



CoreCivic Announces 2021 Fourth Quarter Earnings Release and Conference Call Dates

Research, News, and Market Data on CoreCivic

 

BRENTWOOD, Tenn., Jan. 28, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — CoreCivic, Inc. (NYSE: CXW) (the Company) announced today that it will release its 2021 fourth quarter financial results after the market closes on Wednesday, February 9, 2022.

A live broadcast of CoreCivic’s conference call will begin at 10:00 a.m. central time (11:00 a.m. eastern time) on Thursday, February 10, 2022, and will be accessible through the Company’s website at www.corecivic.com under the “Events & Presentations” section of the “Investors” page. The live broadcast can also be accessed by dialing 877-614-0009 in the U.S. and Canada, including the confirmation passcode 8591205. An online replay of the call will be archived on our website promptly following the conference call. In addition, there will be a telephonic replay available beginning at 1:15 p.m. central time (2:15 p.m. eastern time) on February 10, 2022, through 1:15 p.m. central time (2:15 p.m. eastern time) on February 18, 2022. To access the telephonic replay, dial 888-203-1112 in the U.S. and Canada. International callers may dial +1 719-457-0820 and enter passcode 8591205.

About CoreCivic

CoreCivic is a diversified government solutions company with the scale and experience needed to solve tough government challenges in flexible, cost-effective ways. CoreCivic provides a broad range of solutions to government partners that serve the public good through corrections and detention management, a network of residential reentry centers to help address America’s recidivism crisis, and government real estate solutions. CoreCivic is the nation’s largest owner of partnership correctional, detention and residential reentry facilities, and believes it is the largest private owner of real estate used by government agencies in the U.S. CoreCivic has been a flexible and dependable partner for government for more than 35 years. CoreCivic’s employees are driven by a deep sense of service, high standards of professionalism and a responsibility to help government better the public good.

Contact: Investors: Cameron Hopewell – Managing Director, Investor Relations – (615) 263-3024
Media: Steve Owen – Vice President, Communications – (615) 263-3107

Capstone Green Energy Continues to Expand Its EaaS Business With New 10-Year 1.2 MW Parts & Labor Service Contract in Eastern Europe

 



Capstone Green Energy Continues to Expand Its EaaS Business With New 10-Year 1.2 MW Parts & Labor Service Contract in Eastern Europe

Research, News, and Market Data on Capstone Green Energy

 

VAN NUYS, Calif.–(BUSINESS WIRE)– Capstone Green Energy Corporation (www.CapstoneGreenEnergy.com) (NASDAQ: CGRN) (“Capstone,” the “Company,” “we” or “us”), a global leader in carbon reduction and on-site resilient green energy as a service (EaaS) solutions, announced today that Servelect (www.servelect.ro/en/), Capstone’s exclusive distributor for Romania, entered into a new 10-year Parts and Labor Factory Protection Plan (FPP) service contract for two Capstone Signature Series C600S natural gas-fueled systems installed in Eastern Europe.

“Capstone continues to focus on expanding our EaaS business, including our innovative FPP service program, as extended service agreements generate higher margin rates than traditional product sales,” said Darren Jamison, President and Chief Executive Officer of Capstone Green Energy. “Our FPP service business in conjunction with our long-term rental fleet are the cornerstones of our EaaS business, which we believe to be key to achieving our profitability goals,” added Mr. Jamison.

The two Capstone Signature Series C600S units, generating 1.2 megawatts (MWs) of power, are owned and operated by Cemacon, Romania’s largest ceramic block producer, which was founded in 1969 in Zalau, Romania, and has since expanded to lead that market in Transylvania. Cemacon has a proud history of innovation and a belief in environmentally sound processes, having developed an eco-friendly ceramic production line in which the Capstone C600S units play a key role in the drying process. With a capacity of 2.25 MW thermal, the high-efficiency cogeneration plant commissioned in August 2021 operates the two C600S units on natural gas with an optimized total net efficiency of 95%. Cemacon’s Reccea plant is located five hours from Bucharest and operates in grid connect mode supporting the plant’s power requirements and exporting approximately 400 kilowatts (kW) of excess power to the local grid.

“For this industry, the installation signals a progressive approach with the significantly reduced emissions, improved environmental footprint, and high net efficiency,” stated Tracy Chidbachian, Capstone’s Director of Customer Service. “We are meeting the customer’s operational needs for a secure and stable drying process and doing so in an environmentally responsible manner while providing the customer significant financial savings,” concluded Ms. Chidbachian.

The Capstone Green Energy parts and labor FPP is designed to provide ten years of comprehensive maintenance, giving the end-use customer financial peace of mind and protecting the installation from potentially costly unscheduled maintenance.

About Capstone Green Energy

Capstone Green Energy (www.CapstoneGreenEnergy.com) (NASDAQ: CGRN) is a leading provider of customized microgrid solutions and on-site energy technology systems focused on helping customers around the globe meet their environmental, energy savings, and resiliency goals. Capstone Green Energy focuses on four key business lines. Through its Energy as a Service (EaaS) business, it offers rental solutions utilizing its microturbine energy systems and battery storage systems, comprehensive Factory Protection Plan (FPP) service contracts that guarantee life-cycle costs, as well as aftermarket parts. Energy Conversion Products are driven by the Company’s industry-leading, highly efficient, low-emission, resilient microturbine energy systems offering scalable solutions in addition to a broad range of customer-tailored solutions, including hybrid energy systems and larger frame industrial turbines. The Energy Storage Products business line designs and installs microgrid storage systems creating customized solutions using a combination of battery technologies and monitoring software. Through Hydrogen Energy Solutions, Capstone Green Energy offers customers a variety of hydrogen products, including the Company’s microturbine energy systems.

For customers with limited capital or short-term needs, Capstone offers rental systems; for more information, contact: rentals@CGRNenergy.com. To date, Capstone has shipped over 10,000 units to 83 countries and estimates that, in FY21, it saved customers over $217 million in annual energy costs and approximately 397,000 tons of carbon. Total savings over the last three fiscal years are estimated at 1,115,100 tons of carbon and $698 million in annual energy savings.

For more information about the Company, please visit: www.CapstoneGreenEnergy.com. Follow Capstone Green Energy on TwitterLinkedInInstagramFacebook, and YouTube.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This release contains, and the Company’s presentation and responses to questions at the Water Tower Research Virtual Fireside Chat Series will contain, forward-looking statements as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including statements regarding achievement of profitability goals, expectations for green initiatives, execution on the Company’s growth strategy and other statements regarding the Company’s expectations, beliefs, plans, intentions, and strategies. The Company has tried to identify these forward-looking statements by using words such as “expect,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “could,” “should,” “estimate,” “intend,” “may,” “will,” “plan,” “goal” and similar terms and phrases, but such words, terms and phrases are not the exclusive means of identifying such statements. Actual results, performance and achievements could differ materially from those expressed in, or implied by, these forward-looking statements due to a variety of risks, uncertainties and other factors, including, but not limited to, the following: the ongoing effects of the COVID-19 pandemic; the availability of credit and compliance with the agreements governing the Company’s indebtedness; the Company’s ability to develop new products and enhance existing products; product quality issues, including the adequacy of reserves therefor and warranty cost exposure; intense competition; financial performance of the oil and natural gas industry and other general business, industry and economic conditions; the Company’s ability to adequately protect its intellectual property rights; and the impact of pending or threatened litigation. For a detailed discussion of factors that could affect the Company’s future operating results, please see the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including the disclosures under “Risk Factors” in those filings. Except as expressly required by the federal securities laws, the Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, changed circumstances or future events or for any other reason.

Capstone Green Energy
Investor and investment media inquiries:
818-407-3628
ir@CGRNenergy.com

Source: Capstone Green Energy Corporation

ProMIS Neurosciences Appoints Internationally Recognized Neuroscientist Dr. Cheryl Wellington to its Scientific Advisory Board



ProMIS Neurosciences Appoints Internationally Recognized Neuroscientist Dr. Cheryl Wellington to its Scientific Advisory Board

News and Market Data on ProMIS Neurosciences

 

TORONTO, Ontario and CAMBRIDGE, Mass., Jan. 27, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ProMIS Neurosciences, Inc. (TSX: PMN) (OTCQB: ARFXF), a biotechnology company focused on the discovery and development of antibody therapeutics targeting misfolded proteins such as toxic oligomers implicated in the development of neurodegenerative diseases, announced today that it has appointed Dr. Cheryl Wellington to its scientific advisory board (SAB).

Dr. Cheryl Wellington, Professor of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine at the University of British Columbia (UBC), has built an internationally recognized research program that focuses on neurological diseases, with a particular emphasis on Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) and Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI). 

“We are delighted to welcome Dr. Wellington to the ProMIS SAB,” stated Dr. Neil Cashman, ProMIS’ Chief Scientific Officer. “In addition to her outstanding contributions to the understanding of AD and TBI, we are duly impressed by her research group that is one of the most experienced in North America on ultrasensitive blood-based biomarker tests for a number of neurological and neurodegenerative conditions, including Alzheimer’s disease.”

The emerging ability to measure biomarkers such as NfL (neurofilament light chain), P-tau (phosphorylated tau protein) and GFAP (glial fibrillary acidic protein) in blood samples as opposed to cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) offers several advantages such as its relatively non-invasive nature, lower risk of complications and ease with which blood draws can be repeated on a regular basis. These advantages make blood-based biomarkers ideal tools in AD clinical trials to assist in diagnosis and monitoring of patient progress on therapy.

Commenting on her appointment to the ProMIS SAB, Dr. Wellington stated: “ProMIS’s approach to targeting the root cause of many brain diseases is of exceptional interest and importance. I am honored to join the Scientific Advisory Board to advise and assist in their programs.”

About ProMIS Neurosciences
ProMIS Neurosciences, Inc. is a development stage biotechnology company focused on discovering and developing antibody therapeutics selectively targeting misfolded proteins such as toxic misfolded oligomers implicated in the development and progression of neurodegenerative diseases, in particular Alzheimer’s disease (AD), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and Parkinson’s disease (PD). The Company’s proprietary target discovery engine is based on the use of two complementary computational modeling techniques. The Company applies its molecular dynamics, computational discovery platform -ProMIS™ and Collective Coordinates – to predict novel targets known as Disease Specific Epitopes on the molecular surface of misfolded proteins. ProMIS is headquartered in Toronto, Ontario, with offices in Cambridge, Massachusetts. ProMIS is listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol PMN, and on the OTCQB Venture Market under the symbol ARFXF
Visit us at www.promisneurosciences.com, follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn

For Investor Relations please contact:
Alpine Equity Advisors
Nicholas Rigopulos, President
nick@alpineequityadv.com
Tel. 617 901-0785

The TSX has not reviewed and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. This information release contains certain forward-looking information. Such information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from those implied by statements herein, and therefore these statements should not be read as guarantees of future performance or results. All forward-looking statements are based on the Company’s current beliefs as well as assumptions made by and information currently available to it as well as other factors. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this press release. Due to risks and uncertainties, including the risks and uncertainties identified by the Company in its public securities filings, actual events may differ materially from current expectations. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Source: ProMIS Neurosciences Inc.

Release – PDS Biotech Announces Preclinical Data for PDS0202 Universal Influenza Vaccine



PDS Biotech Announces Preclinical Data for PDS0202 Universal Influenza Vaccine

Research, News, and Market Data on PDS Biotech

 

PDS0202 (Infectimune™ + COBRA Influenza Antigens) neutralized multiple strains of the flu and provided effective protection against infection in preclinical studies

FLORHAM PARK, N.J., Jan. 27, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — PDS Biotechnology Corporation (Nasdaq: PDSB), a clinical-stage immunotherapy company developing novel cancer therapies and infectious disease vaccines based on the Company’s proprietary Versamune® and Infectimune™ T-cell activating technologies, today announced preclinical data for its universal flu vaccine, which was shown to be effective against multiple strains of the influenza virus.

Due to the existence of multiple strains of flu, a new seasonal flu vaccination is usually developed to provide protection against the strains predicted to be prevalent in an upcoming flu season. As a result, the protective efficacy of the current vaccines varies widely from season to season. PDS Biotechnology is developing a new generation of flu vaccines with the potential to provide long-lasting, and broad protection against multiple strains of the virus. We believe that the successful development of a universal flu vaccine could eliminate the need to create a vaccine to protect against each year’s predicted variants. According to the World Health Organization, influenza causes 3 to 5 million cases and approximately 290,000 to 650,000 deaths each year.

PDS0202 combines PDS Biotech’s proprietary Infectimune™ technology with proprietary COBRA (Computationally Optimized Broadly Reactive Antigens) designed by renowned influenza expert Dr. Ted Ross. PDS Biotech announced an agreement with the University of Georgia to license the COBRA antigens.

The NIAID-sponsored preclinical work was performed by Dr. Jerold Woodward at the University of Kentucky College of Medicine and Dr. Ted Ross at the University of Georgia, in collaboration with PDS Biotech. Dr. Ted Ross is Principal Investigator at the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) Collaborative Influenza Vaccine Innovation Center (CIVICs) located at the University of Georgia. The studies demonstrated the ability of PDS0202 to promote robust induction of broadly neutralizing influenza -specific antibodies, flu-specific CD4 (helper) and CD8 (killer) T-cells, as well as long-lasting memory T-cells. This well characterized and robust immune response to the COBRA antigens suggests strong potential for broad and long-term protection against multiple strains of influenza.

“We are excited by the highly promising preclinical results generated in collaboration with Drs. Woodward and Ross,” said Dr. Lauren V. Wood, MD, Chief Medical Officer of PDS Biotech. “The COBRA antigens provide an innovative approach to generating broadly effective immune responses against influenza, which when combined with our Infectimune™ platform may provide effective neutralization and protection against infection. The data suggest that PDS0202, has the potential to overcome the well documented limitations faced in developing a universal influenza vaccine.”

“The novel mechanisms by which the PDS Biotech-patented lipids activate critical immunological pathways may allow us to develop a new generation of vaccines that could be more effective in protecting us from infectious pathogens like influenza and Covid-19,” stated Jerold Woodward, Ph.D., Professor of Immunology at the University of Kentucky, College of Medicine.

“The preclinical results show the potential for PDS0202 to be effective in preventing viral invasion of the lungs by multiple strains of the influenza virus,” stated Ted Ross, Ph.D., Professor, and Director of the Center for Vaccines and Immunology, University of Georgia. “We look forward to seeing the PDS0202-COBRA vaccine in future human trials.”

About PDS Biotechnology

PDS Biotech is a clinical-stage immunotherapy company developing a growing pipeline of cancer and infectious disease immunotherapies based on the Company’s proprietary Versamune® and Infectimune™ T-cell activating technology platforms.

Our Versamune®-based products have demonstrated the potential to overcome the limitations of current immunotherapy by inducing in vivo, large quantities of high-quality, highly potent polyfunctional tumor specific CD4+ helper and CD8+ killer T-cells. PDS Biotech has developed multiple therapies, based on combinations of Versamune® and disease-specific antigens, designed to train the immune system to better recognize diseased cells and effectively attack and destroy them. The Company’s pipeline products address various cancers including HPV16-associated cancers (anal, cervical, head and neck, penile, vaginal, vulvar) and breast, colon, lung, prostate and ovarian cancers.

Our Infectimune™-based vaccines have demonstrated the potential to induce not only robust and durable neutralizing antibody responses, but also powerful T-cell responses including long-lasting memory T-cell responses. To learn more, please visit www.pdsbiotech.com or follow us on Twitter at @PDSBiotech.

Forward Looking Statements

This communication contains forward-looking statements (including within the meaning of Section 21E of the United States Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and Section 27A of the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended) concerning PDS Biotechnology Corporation (the “Company”) and other matters. These statements may discuss goals, intentions and expectations as to future plans, trends, events, results of operations or financial condition, or otherwise, based on current beliefs of the Company’s management, as well as assumptions made by, and information currently available to, management. Forward-looking statements generally include statements that are predictive in nature and depend upon or refer to future events or conditions, and include words such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “would,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “plan,” “likely,” “believe,” “estimate,” “project,” “intend,” “forecast,” “guidance”, “outlook” and other similar expressions among others. Forward-looking statements are based on current beliefs and assumptions that are subject to risks and uncertainties and are not guarantees of future performance. Actual results could differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement as a result of various factors, including, without limitation: the Company’s ability to protect its intellectual property rights; the Company’s anticipated capital requirements, including the Company’s anticipated cash runway and the Company’s current expectations regarding its plans for future equity financings; the Company’s dependence on additional financing to fund its operations and complete the development and commercialization of its product candidates, and the risks that raising such additional capital may restrict the Company’s operations or require the Company to relinquish rights to the Company’s technologies or product candidates; the Company’s limited operating history in the Company’s current line of business, which makes it difficult to evaluate the Company’s prospects, the Company’s business plan or the likelihood of the Company’s successful implementation of such business plan; the timing for the Company or its partners to initiate the planned clinical trials for PDS0101, PDS0203 and other Versamune® based products; the future success of such trials; the successful implementation of the Company’s research and development programs and collaborations, including any collaboration studies concerning PDS0101, PDS0203 and other Versamune® based products and the Company’s interpretation of the results and findings of such programs and collaborations and whether such results are sufficient to support the future success of the Company’s product candidates; the success, timing and cost of the Company’s ongoing clinical trials and anticipated clinical trials for the Company’s current product candidates, including statements regarding the timing of initiation, pace of enrollment and completion of the trials (including our ability to fully fund our disclosed clinical trials, which assumes no material changes to our currently projected expenses), futility analyses, presentations at conferences and data reported in an abstract, and receipt of interim results (including, without limitation, any preclinical results or data), which are not necessarily indicative of the final results of the Company’s ongoing clinical trials; any Company statements about its understanding of product candidates mechanisms of action and interpretation of preclinical and early clinical results from its clinical development programs and any collaboration studies; the acceptance by the market of the Company’s product candidates, if approved; the timing of and the Company’s ability to obtain and maintain U.S. Food and Drug Administration or other regulatory authority approval of, or other action with respect to, the Company’s product candidates; and other factors, including legislative, regulatory, political and economic developments not within the Company’s control, including unforeseen circumstances or other disruptions to normal business operations arising from or related to COVID-19. The foregoing review of important factors that could cause actual events to differ from expectations should not be construed as exhaustive and should be read in conjunction with statements that are included herein and elsewhere, including the risk factors included in the Company’s annual and periodic reports filed with the SEC. The forward-looking statements are made only as of the date of this press release and, except as required by applicable law, the Company undertakes no obligation to revise or update any forward-looking statement, or to make any other forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Investor Contact:

Rich Cockrell
CG Capital
Phone: +1 (404) 736-3838
pdsb@cg.capital

Release – Ocugen Inc. Signs Letter of Intent to Acquire Vaccine Manufacturing R D Hub in Ontario Canada



Ocugen, Inc. Signs Letter of Intent to Acquire Vaccine Manufacturing, R&D Hub in Ontario, Canada

 

Research, News, and Market Data on Ocugen

 

  • Dormant Vaccine Manufacturing site currently owned by an affiliate of Liminal BioSciences intended to bring new capabilities to Ocugen’s medicine portfolio of Canadian and U.S. companies
  • COVAXIN™ (BBV152), if approved, to be the first product manufactured in new upgraded facility
  • New facility includes potential for manufacturing for breakthrough gene therapies and serve as R&D hub
  • Site development, refurbishment and manufacturing intended to bring significant new regional economic opportunities

MALVERN, Pa., Jan. 27, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Ocugen, Inc. (NASDAQ: OCGN), a biopharmaceutical company focused on discovering, developing, and commercializing breakthrough gene therapies and vaccines, announced that it has signed a non-binding letter of intent (LOI) with Liminal BioSciences, Inc. a Canadian public company with shares listed on NASDAQ   for the acquisition of their manufacturing site in Belleville, Ontario, for an undisclosed amount.

This site would enable Ocugen to expand its manufacturing and research and development capabilities to support its pipeline. This includes the manufacture of COVAXIN™ (BBV152), the company’s COVID-19 vaccine candidate, which was submitted to Health Canada for regulatory review by Ocugen’s Canadian affiliate, Vaccigen Ltd. This vaccine manufacturing facility has the potential to help Canada in its efforts to control the current and future pandemics for all Canadians.

“We believe establishing a manufacturing and R&D hub for our biotechnology platform is the right investment and next evolution of our business. This site, after transformation into a state-of-the-art hub, with the support of the regional talent pool can help bring our innovative products – from vaccines to our modifier gene therapy assets – to the patients we will serve globally,” said Dr. Shankar Musunuri, Chairman, CEO and Co-Founder, Ocugen, Inc.

“We’re here to deliver to Canadians medical innovation that is going to make a difference in their lives. It’s also our intent to bring new opportunities for employment to the Belleville community that over time may bring significant economic growth to Ontario,” commented Dr. Ajay Potluri, Chief Executive Officer, Vaccigen Ltd.

“We are excited to see Ocugen’s plans to repurpose our dormant vaccine manufacturing facility and create vaccine manufacturing capacity in Canada. We thank Minister Champagne and his team at Innovation Science Economic Development (ISED) Canada who facilitated the introduction to Ocugen and Vaccigen.,” said Alek Krstajic, Chairman of the Board, Liminal BioSciences.

“We believe this could be an exciting opportunity for everyone involved, Liminal BioSciences, Ocugen, the province of Ontario, and most of all, the people of Canada, and we’re pleased to help facilitate this event by potentially selling a dormant vaccine manufacturing facility which is non-core to Liminal Biosciences and could be strategic to Ocugen,” said Peter Thomson, whose company, Thomvest, is a majority shareholder of Liminal BioSciences.

Completion of the proposed transaction is subject to finalization of due diligence investigations by the parties, the negotiation and execution of definitive transaction agreements and other customary closing conditions including certain funding requirements. There can be no assurance that a definitive agreement will be entered into or that the proposed transaction will be consummated. 

About COVAXIN™ (BBV152)
COVAXIN™ (BBV152) is an investigational vaccine candidate product in the U.S, currently under review by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for emergency use authorization (EUA) for children 2-18 years of age. Additionally, an Investigational New Drug application (IND) is being discussed with the agency to support an immunobridging study among U.S. participants. It was developed by Bharat Biotech in collaboration with the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) – National Institute of Virology (NIV). COVAXIN™ (BBV152) is a highly purified and inactivated vaccine that is manufactured using a vero cell manufacturing platform.

With more than 200 million doses having been administered to adults and children outside the U.S., COVAXIN™ (BBV152) is currently authorized under emergency use in more than 20 countries, and emergency use authorization is in process in more than 60 other countries. The World Health Organization (WHO) recently added COVAXIN™ (BBV152) to its list of vaccines authorized for emergency use. And, as many as 110 countries have agreed to mutual recognition.

About Ocugen, Inc.
Ocugen, Inc. is a biopharmaceutical company focused on discovering, developing, and commercializing gene therapies to cure blindness diseases and developing a vaccine to save lives from COVID-19. Our breakthrough modifier gene therapy platform has the potential to treat multiple retinal diseases with one drug – “one to many” and our novel biologic product candidate aims to offer better therapy to patients with underserved diseases such as wet age-related macular degeneration, diabetic macular edema, and diabetic retinopathy. We are co-developing Bharat Biotech’s COVAXIN™ vaccine candidate for COVID-19 in the U.S. and Canadian markets. For more information, please visit www.ocugen.com.

About Vaccigen Ltd.
Vaccigen Ltd. is the Canadian affiliate of Ocugen, Inc. We are working every day to make a difference in the lives of Canadians, starting with the commercialization of a COVID-19 vaccine. In the future, we will work to bring innovation against blindness derived from the assets within Ocugen’s gene therapy platform. Our goal is to be here for the health of all Canadians during this public health crisis and for the future. Learn more at www.vaccigen.ca.

About Liminal BioSciences Inc.
Liminal BioSciences is a biopharmaceutical company focused on the discovery and development of novel, small molecule drug candidates for the treatment of patients suffering from fibrotic or inflammatory diseases that have a high unmet medical need.

Liminal BioSciences has active business operations in Canada and the United Kingdom.

Cautionary Note on Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, which are subject to risks and uncertainties. We may, in some cases, use terms such as “predicts,” “believes,” “potential,” “proposed,” “continue,” “estimates,” “anticipates,” “expects,” “plans,” “intends,” “may,” “could,” “might,” “will,” “should” or other words that convey uncertainty of future events or outcomes to identify these forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements include information about our non-binding letter of intent with Liminal BioSciences (Liminal) to acquire Liminal’s manufacturing site in Belleville, Ontario, including the anticipated terms of the potential acquisition, which are non-binding and subject to change, the potential manufacturing capability of such site, the potential regional economic opportunities that could result from our plans to further develop and refurbish the site following its acquisition, and the value of such site to our product pipeline, stockholders and the Canadian population, and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those express or implied by such statements, including, among other things, the risk that we may not be able to successfully negotiate and execute a definitive purchase agreement for the acquisition on acceptable terms, if at all, and the ultimate terms and timing for closing of the transactions contemplated thereby; the risk that we will not be able to successfully close the acquisition; risks associated with the planned development and refurbishing of the manufacturing site, including that the expected costs for such development will be greater than currently contemplated or that the planned development will take longer than expected or fail to be completed on a timely basis, if at all; and the risk that we will not be able to scale production for such site to adequately support manufacturing of our product candidates or the other products that are currently or may in the future be manufactured at such site. In addition, our business is subject to numerous other risks and uncertainties, including, among other things, the uncertainties inherent in research and development, including the ability to meet anticipated clinical endpoints, commencement and/or completion dates for clinical trials, regulatory submission dates, regulatory approval dates and/or launch dates; the risk that Health Canada does not accept our new drug submission (NDS) for COVAXIN™ or that we may not be able to adequately respond to or resolve the deficiencies noted by Health Canada with respect to our NDS, for which we are preparing responses; the risk that we may not resolve the current clinical hold on COVAXIN™ in the near term or at all, or that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) could make other decisions that adversely impact our ability to advance the development of COVAXIN™ in the United States, and the implications that this clinical hold may have for our request for Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) of COVAXIN for pediatric use, including the timing and scope of any such authorization; risks associated with preliminary and interim data, including the possibility of unfavorable new clinical trial data and further analyses of existing clinical trial data; the risk that the results of in-vitro studies will not be duplicated in human clinical trials; the risk that clinical trial data are subject to differing interpretations and assessments, including during the peer review/publication process, in the scientific community generally, and by regulatory authorities; whether and when data from Bharat Biotech’s clinical trials will be published in scientific journal publications and, if so, when and with what modifications; whether the data and results from the preclinical and clinical studies of COVAXIN™, which have been conducted by Bharat Biotech in India, will be accepted by the FDA or otherwise sufficient to support our EUA submission or planned BLA submission, assuming the clinical hold is lifted; the size, scope, timing and outcome of any additional trials or studies that we may be required to conduct to support an EUA or BLA; any additional chemistry, manufacturing, and controls information that we may be required to submit to the FDA; whether and when a BLA for COVAXIN™ will be submitted to or approved by the FDA; whether developments with respect to the COVID-19 pandemic will affect the regulatory pathway available for vaccines in the United States, Canada or other jurisdictions; market demand for COVAXIN™ in the United States or Canada; decisions by the FDA or Health Canada impacting labeling, manufacturing processes, safety and/or other matters that could affect the availability or commercial potential of COVAXIN™ in the United States or Canada, including development of products or therapies by other companies. These and other risks and uncertainties are more fully described in our periodic filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), including the risk factors described in the section entitled “Risk Factors” in the quarterly and annual reports that we file with the SEC. Any forward-looking statements that we make in this press release speak only as of the date of this press release. Except as required by law, we assume no obligation to update forward-looking statements contained in this press release whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, after the date of this press release.

Ocugen Contact: 
Ken Inchausti
Head, Investor Relations & Communications
IR@Ocugen.com

Release – 1-800-FLOWERS.COM Inc. Reports 7.5 Percent Revenue Growth for Its Fiscal 2022 Second Quarter



1-800-FLOWERS.COM, Inc. Reports 7.5 Percent Revenue Growth for Its Fiscal 2022 Second Quarter

Research, News, and Market Data on 1-800-FLOWERS.COM

 

Jan 27, 2022

  • Total net revenues increased 7.5 percent, or $65.8 million, to $943.0 million, compared with $877.3 million in the prior year period. This revenue growth was on top of the 44.8 percent revenue growth reported in the Company’s 2021 fiscal second quarter.
  • Net income for the quarter was $88.5 million, or $1.34 per diluted share compared with net income of $113.7 million, or $1.71 per diluted share, in the prior year period, primarily reflecting significant year-over-year cost increases for inbound and outbound shipping, labor, and digital marketing. Adjusted net income1 for the quarter was $88.6 million, or $1.34 per diluted share, compared with adjusted net income1 of $114.2 million, or $1.72 per diluted share, in the prior year period.
  • Adjusted EBITDA1 for the quarter was $133.1 million, down 19.0 percent compared with adjusted EBITDA1 of $164.3 million in the prior year period.
  • Company provides revised full-year guidance including revenue growth of 7.0 percent-to-9.0 percent, adjusted EBITDA in a range of $140.0 million-to-$150.0 million and EPS in a range of $0.90 -to- $1.00 per diluted share.

(1 Refer to “Definitions of Non-GAAP Financial Measures” and the tables attached at the end of this press release for reconciliation of non-GAAP results to applicable GAAP results.)

JERICHO, N.Y.–(BUSINESS WIRE)– 1-800-FLOWERS.COM, Inc. (NASDAQ: FLWS), a leading e-commerce provider of products and services designed to inspire more human expression, connection, and celebration, today reported results for its fiscal 2022 second quarter ended December 26, 2021.

Chris McCann, CEO of 1-800-FLOWERS.COM, Inc., said, “Our revenue growth of 7.5 percent in the quarter – on top of the 45 percent growth in last year’s fiscal second quarter – reflected continued growth across our three business segments, highlighted by growth of approximately ten percent in our Gourmet Foods and Gift Baskets segment, led by our Harry & David® brand.” McCann noted that, in addition to representing a very challenging year-over-year comparison, the holiday period was characterized by several significant headwinds including limited availability and increased costs for seasonal labor, ongoing supply-chain disruptions that caused shortages of key components for some holiday products and the resurgence of COVID pandemic cases across the country. “The widely reported cost increases associated with these macro headwinds significantly exceeded our expectations during the quarter, impacting our margins and bottom-line results,” he said.

McCann said the Company will continue to invest in its operating platform, including initiatives to bring imported inventory in early and optimize outbound shipping methods as well as automating of its warehouse and distribution facilities to help mitigate the continuing cost headwinds. “Over the longer term, we anticipate these initiatives will enable us to improve our gross margins and drive enhanced bottom-line performance.”

McCann noted that during the second quarter the Company saw continued strong, year-over-year growth in its customer file and in its Celebrations Passport® loyalty program, which helps drive increased purchase frequency, retention, and cross-category/cross-brand purchases. “We also saw double-digit growth in our best performing customer cohort – customers that buy from multiple product categories and multiple brands within a given year. We believe these positive trends will provide increased marketing leverage over the longer term, particularly as we continue to see a larger percentage of our total revenues coming from existing customers.”

Second Quarter 2022 Financial Results
Total consolidated revenues increased 7.5 percent, or 
$65.8 million, to 
$943.0 million, compared with 
$877.3 million in the prior year period. This revenue growth was on top of the 44.8 percent revenue growth reported in the Company’s 2021 fiscal second quarter. The Company achieved revenue growth across its three business segments, including growth of 9.8 percent in its Gourmet Foods and Gift Baskets segment, led by growth of more than 10.0 percent in its Harry & David brand.

Gross profit margin for the quarter was 40.1 percent, a decline of 530 basis points compared with 45.4 percent in the prior year period, primarily reflecting increased costs for inbound and outbound shipping and labor. Operating expenses as a percent of total revenues, improved 70 basis points to 27.9 percent of total sales, compared with 28.6 percent of total sales in the prior year period.

The combination of these factors resulted in net income for the quarter of 
$88.5 million, or 
$1.34 per diluted share compared with net income of 
$113.7 million, or 
$1.71 per diluted share, in the prior year period, primarily reflecting significant year-over-year cost increases in labor, inbound and outbound shipping, and digital marketing. Adjusted net income1 for the quarter was 
$88.6 million, or 
$1.34 per share, compared with adjusted net income of 
$114.2 million, or 
$1.72 per share, in the prior year period. Adjusted EBITDA1 for the quarter was 
$133.1 million, down 19.0 percent compared with adjusted EBITDA1 of 
$164.3 million in the prior year period.

Segment Results:
The Company provides selected financial results for its Gourmet Foods and Gift Baskets, Consumer Floral and Gifts, and BloomNet® segments in the tables attached to this release and as follows:

  • Gourmet Foods and Gift Baskets: Revenues for the quarter increased 9.8 percent to 
    $590.9 million, compared with 
    $538.3 million in the prior year period. The strong growth was primarily driven by growth of more than 10.0 percent in the Company’s Harry & David business. Gross profit margin was 39.3 percent, a decline of 660 basis points compared with 45.9 percent in the prior year period, primarily reflecting increased costs for inbound and outbound shipping as well as limited availability and higher costs for labor. Segment contribution margin was 
    $110.5 million, down 18.5 percent compared with 
    $135.6 million in the prior year period, reflecting the reduced gross margin as well as higher year-over-year digital marketing costs.
  • Consumer Floral and Gifts: Total revenues in this segment increased 3.2 percent to 
    $315.1 million, compared with 
    $305.5 million in the prior year period. Gross profit margin was 41.3 percent, down 270 basis points compared with 44.0 percent in the prior year period, primarily reflecting increased costs for inbound and outbound shipping and labor. Segment contribution margin was 
    $38.2 million, down 16.4 percent compared with 
    $45.7 million in the prior year period, primarily reflecting the reduced gross margin as well as higher year-over-year digital marketing costs.
  • BloomNet: Revenues for the quarter increased 11.4 percent to 
    $37.9 million, compared with 
    $34.1 million in the prior year period. Gross profit margin was 42.2 percent, down 720 basis points, compared with 49.4 percent in the prior year period, primarily reflecting higher inbound shipping costs and product mix. Segment contribution margin was 
    $11.9 million, down 2.1 percent compared with 
    $12.1 million in the prior year period primarily reflecting increased in-bound and outbound shipping costs which reduced gross margin.

Company Guidance
The Company is updating its guidance for the fiscal 2022 year reflecting reported results for the first half of the year as well as its outlook for the remainder of the year. The updated guidance includes:

  • Total revenue growth of 7.0 percent-to-9.0 percent compared with the prior year;
  • Adjusted EBITDA in a range of 
    $140.0 million-to-
    $150.0 million;
  • EPS in a range of 
    $0.90 -to- 
    $1.00 per diluted share, and;
  • The Company anticipates that Free Cash Flow for the year will be down significantly compared with the prior year based on its updated guidance and its plans to use its strong balance sheet to continue to invest in inventory to support its growth plans and address the headwinds it sees in the macro economy.

The Company’s guidance for the year is based on several factors, including:

  • the continuing headwinds associated with the ongoing pandemic, increased costs for labor, inbound and outbound shipping, and marketing as well as consumer concerns regarding rising price inflation somewhat offset by;
  • the Company’s ability to continue to attract new customers and add new members to its Celebrations Passport® loyalty program, which is helping drive increased frequency, retention, and cross-category/cross-brand purchases.

Definitions of non-GAAP Financial Measures:
We sometimes use financial measures derived from consolidated financial information, but not presented in our financial statements prepared in accordance with 
U.S. generally accepted accounting principles(“GAAP”). Certain of these are considered “non-GAAP financial measures” under the 
U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission rules. Non-GAAP financial measures referred to in this document are either labeled as “non-GAAP” or designated as such with a “1”. See below for definitions and the reasons why we use these non-GAAP financial measures. Where applicable, see the Selected Financial Information below for reconciliations of these non-GAAP measures to their most directly comparable GAAP financial measures.

EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA:
We define EBITDA as net income (loss) before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization. Adjusted EBITDA is defined as EBITDA adjusted for the impact of stock-based compensation, Non-Qualified Plan Investment appreciation/depreciation, and for certain items affecting period-to-period comparability. See Selected Financial Information for details on how EBITDA and adjusted EBITDA were calculated for each period presented. The Company presents EBITDA and adjusted EBITDA because it considers such information meaningful supplemental measures of its performance and believes such information is frequently used by the investment community in the evaluation of similarly situated companies. The Company uses EBITDA and adjusted EBITDA as factors to determine the total amount of incentive compensation available to be awarded to executive officers and other employees. The Company’s credit agreement uses EBITDA and adjusted EBITDA to determine its interest rate and to measure compliance with certain covenants. EBITDA and adjusted EBITDA are also used by the Company to evaluate and price potential acquisition candidates. EBITDA and adjusted EBITDA have limitations as analytical tools and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for analysis of the Company’s results as reported under GAAP. Some of the limitations are: (a) EBITDA and adjusted EBITDA do not reflect changes in, or cash requirements for, the Company’s working capital needs; (b) EBITDA and adjusted EBITDA do not reflect the significant interest expense, or the cash requirements necessary to service interest or principal payments, on the Company’s debts; and (c) although depreciation and amortization are non-cash charges, the assets being depreciated and amortized may have to be replaced in the future and EBITDA does not reflect any cash requirements for such capital expenditures. EBITDA and adjusted EBITDA should only be used on a supplemental basis combined with GAAP results when evaluating the Company’s performance.

Segment Contribution Margin and Adjusted Segment Contribution Margin:
We define segment contribution margin as earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization, before the allocation of corporate overhead expenses. Adjusted contribution margin is defined as contribution margin adjusted for certain items affecting period-to-period comparability. See Selected Financial Information for details on how segment contribution margin and adjusted segment contribution margin was calculated for each period presented. When viewed together with our GAAP results, we believe segment contribution margin and adjusted segment contribution margin provide management and users of the financial statements meaningful information about the performance of our business segments. Segment contribution margin and adjusted segment contribution margin are used in addition to and in conjunction with results presented in accordance with GAAP and should not be relied upon to the exclusion of GAAP financial measures. The material limitation associated with the use of the segment contribution margin and adjusted segment contribution margin is that they are an incomplete measure of profitability as they do not include all operating expenses or non-operating income and expenses. Management compensates for these limitations when using this measure by looking at other GAAP measures, such as operating income and net income.

Adjusted Net Income (Loss) and Adjusted or Comparable Net Income (Loss) Per Common Share:
We define adjusted net income (loss) and adjusted or comparable net income (loss) per common share as net income (loss) and net income (loss) per common share adjusted for certain items affecting period to period comparability. See Selected Financial Information below for details on how adjusted net income (loss) and adjusted or comparable net income (loss) per common share were calculated for each period presented. We believe that adjusted net income (loss) and adjusted or comparable EPS are meaningful measures because they increase the comparability of period-to-period results. Since these are not measures of performance calculated in accordance with GAAP, they should not be considered in isolation of, or as a substitute for, GAAP net income (loss) and net income (loss) per common share, as indicators of operating performance and they may not be comparable to similarly titled measures employed by other companies.

Free Cash Flow:
We define free cash flow as net cash provided by operating activities less capital expenditures. The Company considers free cash flow to be a liquidity measure that provides useful information to management and investors about the amount of cash generated by the business after the purchases of fixed assets, which can then be used to, among other things, invest in the Company’s business, make strategic acquisitions, strengthen the balance sheet, and repurchase stock or retire debt. Free cash flow is a liquidity measure that is frequently used by the investment community in the evaluation of similarly situated companies. Since free cash flow is not a measure of performance calculated in accordance with GAAP, it should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for analysis of the Company’s results as reported under GAAP. A limitation of the utility of free cash flow as a measure of financial performance is that it does not represent the total increase or decrease in the company’s cash balance for the period.

About 1-800-FLOWERS.COM, Inc.
1-800-FLOWERS.COM, Inc. is a leading provider of gifts designed to help customers express, connect and celebrate. The Company’s e-commerce business platform features an all-star family of brands, including: 1-800-Flowers.com®, 1-800-Baskets.com®, Cheryl’s Cookies®, Harry & David®, PersonalizationMall.com®, Shari’s Berries®, FruitBouquets.com®, Moose Munch®, The Popcorn Factory®, Wolferman’s Bakery®, Vital Choice®, Stock Yards® and Simply Chocolate®. Through the Celebrations Passport® loyalty program, which provides members with free standard shipping and no service charge across our portfolio of brands, 1-800-FLOWERS.COM, Inc. strives to deepen relationships with customers. The Company also operates BloomNet®, an international floral and gift industry service provider offering a broad range of products and services designed to help members grow their businesses profitably Napco?, a resource for floral gifts and seasonal décor; DesignPac Gifts, LLC, a manufacturer of gift baskets and towers; and Alice’s Table®, a lifestyle business offering fully digital livestreaming floral, culinary and other experiences to guests across the country. 1-800-FLOWERS.COM, Inc. was recognized among the top 5 on the National Retail Federation’s 2021 Hot 25 Retailers list, which ranks the nation’s fastest-growing retail companies. Shares in 1-800-FLOWERS.COM, Inc. are traded on the NASDAQ Global Select Market, ticker symbol: FLWS. For more information, visit 1800flowersinc.com or follow @1800FLOWERSInc on Twitter.

FLWS-COMP
FLWS-FN

Special Note Regarding Forward Looking Statements:
This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements represent the Company’s current expectations or beliefs concerning future events and can generally be identified using statements that include words such as “estimate,” “expects,” “project,” “believe,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “plan,” “foresee,” “forecast,” “likely,” “will,” “target” or similar words or phrases. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties, and other factors, many of which are outside of the Company’s control, which could cause actual results to differ materially from the results expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements, including, but not limited to, statements regarding the Company’s ability to achieve its guidance for fiscal-year 2022; the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on the Company; its ability to successfully integrate acquired businesses and assets; its ability to successfully execute its strategic initiatives; its ability to cost-effectively acquire and retain customers; the outcome of contingencies, including legal proceedings in the normal course of business; its ability to compete against existing and new competitors; its ability to manage expenses associated with sales and marketing and necessary general and administrative and technology investments; its ability to reduce promotional activities and achieve more efficient marketing programs; and general consumer sentiment and industry and economic conditions that may affect levels of discretionary customer purchases of the Company’s products. Reconciliations for forward looking figures would require unreasonable efforts at this time because of the uncertainty and variability of the nature and amount of certain components of various necessary GAAP components, including for example those related to compensation, tax items, amortization or others that may arise during the year, and the Company’s management believes such reconciliations would imply a degree of precision that would be confusing or misleading to investors. The lack of such reconciling information should be considered when assessing the impact of such disclosures. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update any of the forward-looking statements, whether because of new information, future events or otherwise, made in this release or in any of its SEC filings. Consequently, you should not consider any such list to be a complete set of all potential risks and uncertainties. For a more detailed description of these and other risk factors, refer to the Company’s SEC filings, including the Company’s Annual Reports on Form 10-K and its Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q.

Conference Call:
The Company will conduct a conference call to discuss the above details and attached financial results today, Thursday, January 27, 2022, at 8:00 a.m. (ET). The conference call will be webcast live from the Investor Relations section of the Company’s website at www.1800flowersinc.com. A recording of the call will be posted on the Investor Relations section of the Company’s web site within two hours of the call’s completion. A replay of the call can be accessed beginning at 2:00 p.m. ET on the day of the call through February 3, 2022, at: (US) 1-877-344-7529; (
Canada) 855-669-9658; (International) 1-412-317-0088; enter conference ID #:5113256.

Note: The attached tables are an integral part of this press release without which the information presented in this press release should be considered incomplete.

1-800-FLOWERS.COM, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets
(in thousands)

 

December 26, 2021

June 27, 2021

 

(unaudited)

 

 

Assets

 

 

 

 

Current assets:

 

 

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents

$

271,068

$

173,573

Trade receivables, net

 

77,797

 

20,831

Inventories, net

 

191,050

 

153,863

Prepaid and other

 

32,956

 

51,792

Total current assets

 

572,871

 

400,059

 

 

 

 

Property, plant and equipment, net

 

226,660

 

215,287

Operating lease right-of-use assets

 

134,932

 

86,230

Goodwill

 

212,533

 

208,150

Other intangibles, net

 

147,178

 

139,048

Other assets

 

27,164

 

27,905

Total assets

$

1,321,338

$

1,076,679

 

 

 

 

Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity

 

 

 

Current liabilities:

 

 

 

Accounts payable

$

109,257

$

57,434

Accrued expenses

 

279,345

 

178,512

Current maturities of long-term debt

 

20,000

 

20,000

Current portion of long-term operating lease liabilities

 

12,344

 

9,992

Total current liabilities

 

420,946

 

265,938

 

 

 

 

Long-term debt, net

 

151,844

 

161,512

Long-term operating lease liabilities

 

128,620

 

79,375

Deferred tax liabilities

 

32,856

 

34,162

Other liabilities

 

22,112

 

26,622

Total liabilities

756,378

 

567,609

Total stockholders’ equity

 

564,960

 

509,070

Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity

$

1,321,338

$

1,076,679

1-800-FLOWERS.COM, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Selected Financial Information
Consolidated Statements of Operations
(in thousands, except for per share data)
(unaudited)
 

 

Three Months Ended

Six Months Ended

 

December 26,
2021

December 27,
2020

December 26,
2021

December 27,
2020

Net revenues:

 

 

 

 

E-Commerce

$

827,522

 

$

777,810

 

$

1,090,893

 

$

1,016,673

 

Other

 

115,522

 

 

99,446

 

 

161,524

 

 

144,355

 

Total net revenues

 

943,044

 

 

877,256

 

 

1,252,417

 

 

1,161,028

 

Cost of revenues

 

564,594

 

 

479,010

 

 

748,453

 

 

647,302

 

Gross profit

 

378,450

 

 

398,246

 

 

503,964

 

 

513,726

 

Operating expenses:

 

 

 

 

Marketing and sales

 

207,771

 

 

194,696

 

 

302,150

 

 

274,981

 

Technology and development

 

13,490

 

 

14,053

 

 

26,913

 

 

25,656

 

General and administrative

 

28,872

 

 

30,835

 

 

55,938

 

 

59,048

 

Depreciation and amortization

 

12,588

 

 

11,060

 

 

23,558

 

 

19,900

 

Total operating expenses

 

262,721

 

 

250,644

 

 

408,559

 

 

379,585

 

Operating income

 

115,729

 

 

147,602

 

 

95,405

 

 

134,141

 

Interest expense, net

 

1,723

 

 

1,927

 

 

3,251

 

 

2,967

 

Other income, net

 

(2,457

)

 

(2,257

)

 

(3,053

)

 

(3,256

)

Income before income taxes

 

116,463

 

 

147,932

 

 

95,207

 

 

134,430

 

Income tax expense

 

27,995

 

 

34,255

 

 

19,938

 

 

30,515

 

Net income

$

88,468

 

$

113,677

 

$

75,269

 

$

103,915

 

 

 

 

 

 

Basic net income per common share

$

1.36

 

$

1.76

 

$

1.16

 

$

1.61

 

 

 

 

 

 

Diluted net income per common share

$

1.34

 

$

1.71

 

$

1.14

 

$

1.56

 

 

 

 

 

 

Weighted average shares used in the calculation of net income per common share:

 

 

 

 

Basic

 

65,261

 

 

64,728

 

 

65,161

 

 

64,524

 

Diluted

 

65,969

 

 

66,543

 

 

65,954

 

 

66,593

 

1-800-FLOWERS.COM, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Selected Financial Information
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
(in thousands)
(unaudited)
 

 

Six months ended

 

December 26, 2021

December 27, 2020

 

 

 

Operating activities:

 

 

Net income

$

75,269

 

$

103,915

 

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:

 

 

Depreciation and amortization

 

23,558

 

 

19,900

 

Amortization of deferred financing costs

 

616

 

 

545

 

Deferred income taxes

 

(1,306

)

 

(1,388

)

Bad debt expense

 

(1,285

)

 

341

 

Stock-based compensation

 

5,296

 

 

5,358

 

Other non-cash items

 

(448

)

 

(321

)

Changes in operating items:

 

 

Trade receivables

 

(55,074

)

 

(56,372

)

Inventories

 

(28,534

)

 

25,369

 

Prepaid and other

 

8,172

 

 

(1,937

)

Accounts payable and accrued expenses

 

160,459

 

 

212,340

 

Other assets and liabilities

 

(875

)

 

8,897

 

Net cash provided by operating activities

 

185,848

 

 

316,647

 

 

 

 

Investing activities:

 

 

Acquisitions, net of cash acquired

 

(20,786

)

 

(250,943

)

Capital expenditures, net of non-cash expenditures

 

(32,608

)

 

(15,708

)

Purchase of equity investments

 

 

 

(1,285

)

Net cash used in investing activities

 

(53,394

)

 

(267,936

)

 

 

 

Financing activities:

 

 

Acquisition of treasury stock

 

(25,521

)

 

(12,470

)

Proceeds from exercise of employee stock options

 

846

 

 

1,032

 

Proceeds from bank borrowings

 

125,000

 

 

265,000

 

Repayment of bank borrowings

 

(135,000

)

 

(170,000

)

Debt issuance cost

 

(284

)

 

(2,193

)

Net cash used in (provided by) financing activities

 

(34,959

)

 

81,369

 

 

 

 

Net change in cash and cash equivalents

 

97,495

 

 

130,080

 

Cash and cash equivalents:

 

 

Beginning of period

 

173,573

 

 

240,506

 

End of period

$

271,068

 

$

370,586

 

1-800-FLOWERS.COM, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Selected Financial Information – Category Information
(dollars in thousands) (unaudited)
 

Three Months Ended

December 26,
2021

Vital Choice and
Alices’s Table
Transaction
Costs

As Adjusted
(non-GAAP)
December 26, 2021

December 27,
2020

PersonalizationMall
Litigation
& Transaction Costs

Harry & David
Store Closure
Costs

As Adjusted
(non-GAAP)
December 27,
2020

%
Change

Net revenues:

Consumer Floral & Gifts

$

315,083

 

$

$

315,083

 

$

305,357

 

$

$

 

$

305,357

 

3.2

%

BloomNet

 

37,930

 

 

37,930

 

 

34,051

 

 

34,051

 

11.4

%

Gourmet Foods & Gift Baskets

 

590,946

 

 

590,946

 

 

538,265

 

 

538,265

 

9.8

%

Corporate

 

69

 

 

69

 

 

135

 

 

135

 

-48.9

%

Intercompany eliminations

 

(984

)

 

 

(984

)

 

(552

)

 

 

 

(552

)

-78.3

%

Total net revenues

$

943,044

 

$

$

943,044

 

$

877,256

 

$

$

 

$

877,256

 

7.5

%

 

Gross profit:

Consumer Floral & Gifts

$

130,025

 

$

130,025

 

$

134,474

 

$

134,474

 

-3.3

%

 

41.3

%

 

41.3

%

 

44.0

%

 

44.0

%

 

BloomNet

 

16,021

 

 

16,021

 

 

16,820

 

 

16,820

 

-4.8

%

 

42.2

%

 

42.2

%

 

49.4

%

 

49.4

%

 

Gourmet Foods & Gift Baskets

 

232,239

 

 

232,239

 

 

246,890

 

 

246,890

 

-5.9

%

 

39.3

%

 

39.3

%

 

45.9

%

 

45.9

%

 

Corporate

 

165

 

 

165

 

 

62

 

 

62

 

166.1

%

 

239.1

%

 

239.1

%

 

45.9

%

 

45.9

%

 

Total gross profit

$

378,450

 

$

$

378,450

 

$

398,246

 

$

$

 

$

398,246

 

-5.0

%

 

40.1

%

 

 

40.1

%

 

45.4

%

 

 

 

 

45.4

%

 

EBITDA (non-GAAP):

Segment Contribution Margin (non-GAAP) (a):

Consumer Floral & Gifts

$

38,156

 

$

$

38,156

 

$

45,657

 

$

$

 

$

45,657

 

-16.4

%

BloomNet

 

11,887

 

 

11,887

 

 

12,141

 

 

12,141

 

-2.1

%

Gourmet Foods & Gift Baskets

 

110,502

 

 

 

110,502

 

 

135,621

 

 

 

(78

)

 

135,543

 

-18.5

%

Segment Contribution Margin Subtotal

 

160,545

 

 

 

160,545

 

 

193,419

 

 

 

(78

)

 

193,341

 

-17.0

%

Corporate (b)

 

(32,228

)

 

59

 

(32,169

)

 

(34,757

)

 

513

 

 

(34,244

)

6.1

%

EBITDA (non-GAAP)

 

128,317

 

 

59

 

128,376

 

 

158,662

 

 

513

 

(78

)

 

159,097

 

-19.3

%

Add: Stock-based compensation

 

2,291

 

 

2,291

 

 

2,965

 

 

2,965

 

-22.7

%

Add: Compensation charge related to NQ Plan Investment Appreciation

 

2,425

 

 

 

2,425

 

 

2,227

 

 

 

 

2,227

 

8.9

%

Adjusted EBITDA (non-GAAP)

$

133,033

 

$

59

$

133,092

 

$

163,854

 

$

513

$

(78

)

$

164,289

 

-19.0

%

1-800-FLOWERS.COM, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Selected Financial Information – Category Information
(dollars in thousands) (unaudited)
 

Six Months Ended

December 26,
2021

Vital Choice and
Alice’s Table
Transaction Costs

As Adjusted
(non-GAAP)
December 26,
2021

December 27,
2020

PersonalizationMall
Litigation
& Transaction Costs

Harry & David
Store Closure
Costs

As Adjusted
(non-GAAP)
December 27,
2020

%
Change

Net revenues:

Consumer Floral & Gifts

$

496,312

 

$

$

496,312

 

$

466,903

 

$

$

 

$

466,903

 

6.3

%

BloomNet

 

68,764

 

 

68,764

 

 

66,789

 

 

66,789

 

3.0

%

Gourmet Foods & Gift Baskets

 

688,428

 

 

688,428

 

 

628,194

 

 

628,194

 

9.6

%

Corporate

 

114

 

 

114

 

 

241

 

 

241

 

-52.7

%

Intercompany eliminations

 

(1,201

)

 

 

(1,201

)

 

(1,099

)

 

 

 

(1,099

)

-9.3

%

Total net revenues

$

1,252,417

 

$

$

1,252,417

 

$

1,161,028

 

$

$

 

$

1,161,028

 

7.9

%

 

Gross profit:

Consumer Floral & Gifts

$

206,028

 

$

$

206,028

 

$

200,060

 

$

$

 

$

200,060

 

3.0

%

 

41.5

%

 

41.5

%

 

42.8

%

 

42.8

%

 

BloomNet

 

31,430

 

 

31,430

 

 

31,658

 

 

31,658

 

-0.7

%

 

45.7

%

 

45.7

%

 

47.4

%

 

47.4

%

 

Gourmet Foods & Gift Baskets

 

266,402

 

 

266,402

 

 

281,897

 

 

281,897

 

-5.5

%

 

38.7

%

 

38.7

%

 

44.9

%

 

44.9

%

 

Corporate

 

104

 

 

104

 

 

111

 

 

111

 

-6.3

%

 

91.2

%

 

91.2

%

 

46.1

%

 

46.1

%

 

Total gross profit

$

503,964

 

$

$

503,964

 

$

513,726

 

$

$

 

$

513,726

 

-1.9

%

 

40.2

%

 

 

40.2

%

 

44.2

%

 

 

 

 

44.2

%

 

EBITDA (non-GAAP):

Segment Contribution Margin (non-GAAP) (a):

Consumer Floral & Gifts

$

57,346

 

$

$

57,346

 

$

64,893

 

$

$

 

$

64,893

 

-11.6

%

BloomNet

 

22,747

 

 

22,747

 

 

22,562

 

 

22,562

 

0.8

%

Gourmet Foods & Gift Baskets

 

102,829

 

 

 

102,829

 

 

133,040

 

 

 

(483

)

 

132,557

 

22.4

%

Segment Contribution Margin Subtotal

 

182,922

 

 

 

182,922

 

 

220,495

 

 

 

(483

)

 

220,012

 

-16.9

%

Corporate (b)

 

(63,959

)

 

515

 

(63,444

)

 

(66,454

)

 

5,403

 

 

(61,051

)

-3.9

%

EBITDA (non-GAAP)

 

118,963

 

 

515

 

119,478

 

 

154,041

 

 

5,403

 

(483

)

 

158,961

 

-24.8

%

Add: Stock-based compensation

 

5,296

 

 

5,296

 

 

5,358

 

 

5,358

 

-1.2

%

Add: Compensation charge related to NQ Plan Investment Appreciation

 

2,992

 

 

2,992

 

 

3,207

 

 

3,207

 

-6.7

%

Adjusted EBITDA (non-GAAP)

$

127,251

 

$

515

$

127,766

 

$

162,605

 

$

5,403

$

(483

)

$

167,526

 

-23.7

%

1-800-FLOWERS.COM, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Selected Financial Information
(in thousands) (unaudited)
 

Reconciliation of net income to adjusted net income (non-GAAP):

 

 

Three Months Ended

 

Six Months Ended

 

December 26, 2021

December 27, 2020

December 26, 2021

December 27, 2020

 

Net income

 

$

88,468

$

113,677

 

$

75,269

 

$

103,915

 

Adjustments to reconcile net income to adjusted net income (non-GAAP)

 

Add: Transaction costs

 

 

59

 

513

 

 

515

 

 

5,403

 

Deduct: Harry & David store closure cost adjustment

 

 

 

(78

)

 

 

 

(483

)

Deduct: Income tax effect on adjustments

 

 

65

 

125

 

 

(108

)

 

(1,117

)

Adjusted net income (non-GAAP)

 

$

88,592

$

114,237

 

$

75,676

 

$

107,718

 

 

Basic and diluted net income per common share

 

Basic

 

$

1.36

$

1.76

 

$

1.16

 

$

1.61

 

Diluted

 

$

1.34

$

1.71

 

$

1.14

 

$

1.56

 

 

 

Basic and diluted adjusted net income per common share (non-GAAP)

 

Basic

 

$

1.36

$

1.76

 

$

1.16

 

$

1.67

 

Diluted

 

$

1.34

$

1.72

 

$

1.15

 

$

1.62

 

 

Weighted average shares used in the calculation of net income and adjusted net income per common share

 

Basic

 

 

65,261

 

64,728

 

 

65,161

 

 

64,524

 

Diluted

 

 

65,969

 

66,543

 

 

65,954

 

 

66,593

 

1-800-FLOWERS.COM, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Selected Financial Information
(in thousands) (unaudited)
 

Reconciliation of net income to adjusted EBITDA (non-GAAP):

 

Three Months Ended

 

Six Months Ended

December 26, 2021

December 27, 2020

December 26, 2021

December 27, 2020

 

Net income

$

88,468

 

$

113,677

 

$

75,269

$

103,915

 

Add: Interest (income) expense, net

 

(734

)

 

(330

)

 

198

 

(289

)

Add: Depreciation and amortization

 

12,588

 

 

11,060

 

 

23,558

 

19,900

 

Add: Income tax expense

 

27,995

 

 

34,255

 

 

19,938

 

30,515

 

EBITDA

 

128,317

 

 

158,662

 

 

118,963

 

154,041

 

Add: Stock-based compensation

 

2,291

 

 

2,965

 

 

5,296

 

5,358

 

Add: Compensation charge related to NQ plan investment

appreciation

 

2,425

 

 

2,227

 

 

2,992

 

3,207

 

Add: Transaction costs

 

59

 

 

513

 

 

515

 

5,403

 

Deduct: Harry & David store closure cost adjustment

 

 

 

(78

)

 

 

(483

)

Adjusted EBITDA

$

133,092

 

$

164,289

 

$

127,766

$

167,526

 

(a) Segment performance is measured based on segment contribution margin or segment Adjusted EBITDA, reflecting only the direct controllable revenue and operating expenses of the segments, both of which are non-GAAP measurements. As such, management’s measure of profitability for these segments does not include the effect of corporate overhead, described above, depreciation and amortization, other income (net), and other items that we do not consider indicative of our core operating performance.

(b) Corporate expenses consist of the Company’s enterprise shared service cost centers, and include, among other items, Information Technology, Human Resources, Accounting and Finance, Legal, Executive and Customer Service Center functions, as well as Stock-Based Compensation. In order to leverage the Company’s infrastructure, these functions are operated under a centralized management platform, providing support services throughout the organization. The costs of these functions, other than those of the Customer Service Center, which are allocated directly to the above categories based upon usage, are included within corporate expenses as they are not directly allocable to a specific segment.

Investor Contact:

Joseph D. Pititto

(516) 237-6131

invest@1800flowers.com

Media Contact:

Kathleen Waugh

(516) 237-6028

kwaugh@1800flowers.com

Source: 1-800-FLOWERS.COM, Inc.

Diabetes Management Made Simpler


Image Credit: MIT News


An All-In-One Approach to Diabetes Treatment

 

Anne Trafton | MIT News Office

Before consuming a meal, many people with diabetes need to inject themselves with insulin. This is a time-consuming process that often requires estimating the carbohydrate content of the meal, drawing blood to measure blood glucose levels, and then calculating and delivering the correct insulin dose.

Those steps, which typically must be repeated for every meal, make it difficult for many patients with diabetes to stick with their treatment regimen. A team of MIT researchers has now come up with a new approach to streamline the process and help
patients
maintain healthy glucose levels.

“Any intervention that makes it easier for patients to receive therapy can have an enormous impact, because there are multiple barriers that have to do with time, inconvenience, dexterity, or learning and training,” says Giovanni Traverso, the Karl van Tassel Career Development Assistant Professor of Mechanical Engineering at MIT and a gastroenterologist at Brigham and Women’s Hospital. “If we’re able to overcome those barriers through the implementation of new engineering solutions, it will make it easier for patients to receive that therapy.”

Traverso and his colleagues designed two different devices that can simplify the process of calculating and injecting the correct dose of insulin. One, which combines many of the existing steps into a single device, could be used in patients in the near future. Their second prototype incorporates flexible electronics onto the surface of a needle so that the blood measurement and insulin delivery can happen through the same needle. This could eventually make the process of managing diabetes even more streamlined.

All In One Device

Diabetes affects 34 million people in the United States and more than 400 million people worldwide. Patients with diabetes often use two types of insulin to control their blood sugar levels: long-acting insulin, which helps control glucose levels over a 24-hour period, and short-acting insulin, which is injected at mealtimes. Patients first measure their blood glucose levels with a glucose meter, which requires pricking their finger to draw blood and placing a drop of blood onto a test strip. They must also estimate how many carbohydrates are in their meal and combine this information with their blood glucose levels to calculate and inject the proper insulin dose.

Existing technologies such as continuous blood glucose monitors and insulin pumps can help with some parts of this process. However, these devices are not widely available, so most patients must rely on finger pricks and syringes.

“Every day, many patients need to do this complicated procedure at least three times,” Huang says. “The main goal of this project is to try to facilitate all of these complex procedures and also to eliminate the requirement for multiple devices. We also used a smartphone camera and deep learning to create an app that identifies and quantifies food content, which can aid in carbohydrate counting.”

The research team devised two different types of “all-in-one” devices, both of which incorporate the new smartphone app. Patients first take a picture of the food, and the app can then estimate the volume of food and the amount of carbohydrates, based on nutrient information from a USDA database.

The first all-in-one device that the researchers designed consolidates many of the existing tools that patients use now, including a lancet for drawing blood and glucose test strips. Once the blood glucose measurement is taken, the device conveys the information to the smartphone app via Bluetooth, and the app calculates the correct insulin dose. The device also includes a needle that injects the correct amount of insulin.

“What our device is doing is automating the procedures to prick the skin, collect the blood, calculate the glucose level, and do the computation and insulin injection,” Huang says. “The patient no longer needs a separate lancing device, glucose meter, and insulin pen.”

Many of the components included in this device are already FDA-approved, but the device has not been tested in human patients yet. Tests in pigs showed that the system could accurately measure glucose levels and dispense insulin.

 

A Single Jab

For their second device, the researchers wanted to come up with a system that would require just one needle prick. To achieve that, they designed a novel glucose sensor that could be incorporated into the same needle that is used for insulin injection.

“The idea would be that if we can integrate the glucose sensor directly onto the surface of the insulin delivery needle, we would only need one stick for the patient, which minimizes pain and also makes the whole process easier to administer,” You says.

The researchers designed a flexible electronic sensor that can be attached to the needle and measure glucose levels in the interstitial fluid, just below the surface of the skin. Once the needle penetrates the skin, it takes between five and 10 seconds to measure the glucose levels. This information is transmitted to the smartphone app, which calculates the insulin dose and delivers it through the inserted needle.

In tests in the pigs, the researchers showed that they could accurately measure glucose levels with this system, and that glucose levels dropped after insulin injection.

Because this device uses a novel type of glucose sensor, the researchers expect that it will require further development to get to a point where it could be tested in patients. They have filed for patents on both of the systems described in the new study and hope to work with companies to further develop them.

 

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This article originally appeared in MIT News on January 20, 2022 and has been Shared with Permission

 

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Release – ProMIS Neurosciences Appoints Internationally Recognized Neuroscientist Dr. Cheryl Wellington to its Scientific Advisory Board



ProMIS Neurosciences Appoints Internationally Recognized Neuroscientist Dr. Cheryl Wellington to its Scientific Advisory Board

News and Market Data on ProMIS Neurosciences

 

TORONTO, Ontario and CAMBRIDGE, Mass., Jan. 27, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ProMIS Neurosciences, Inc. (TSX: PMN) (OTCQB: ARFXF), a biotechnology company focused on the discovery and development of antibody therapeutics targeting misfolded proteins such as toxic oligomers implicated in the development of neurodegenerative diseases, announced today that it has appointed Dr. Cheryl Wellington to its scientific advisory board (SAB).

Dr. Cheryl Wellington, Professor of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine at the University of British Columbia (UBC), has built an internationally recognized research program that focuses on neurological diseases, with a particular emphasis on Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) and Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI). 

“We are delighted to welcome Dr. Wellington to the ProMIS SAB,” stated Dr. Neil Cashman, ProMIS’ Chief Scientific Officer. “In addition to her outstanding contributions to the understanding of AD and TBI, we are duly impressed by her research group that is one of the most experienced in North America on ultrasensitive blood-based biomarker tests for a number of neurological and neurodegenerative conditions, including Alzheimer’s disease.”

The emerging ability to measure biomarkers such as NfL (neurofilament light chain), P-tau (phosphorylated tau protein) and GFAP (glial fibrillary acidic protein) in blood samples as opposed to cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) offers several advantages such as its relatively non-invasive nature, lower risk of complications and ease with which blood draws can be repeated on a regular basis. These advantages make blood-based biomarkers ideal tools in AD clinical trials to assist in diagnosis and monitoring of patient progress on therapy.

Commenting on her appointment to the ProMIS SAB, Dr. Wellington stated: “ProMIS’s approach to targeting the root cause of many brain diseases is of exceptional interest and importance. I am honored to join the Scientific Advisory Board to advise and assist in their programs.”

About ProMIS Neurosciences
ProMIS Neurosciences, Inc. is a development stage biotechnology company focused on discovering and developing antibody therapeutics selectively targeting misfolded proteins such as toxic misfolded oligomers implicated in the development and progression of neurodegenerative diseases, in particular Alzheimer’s disease (AD), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and Parkinson’s disease (PD). The Company’s proprietary target discovery engine is based on the use of two complementary computational modeling techniques. The Company applies its molecular dynamics, computational discovery platform -ProMIS™ and Collective Coordinates – to predict novel targets known as Disease Specific Epitopes on the molecular surface of misfolded proteins. ProMIS is headquartered in Toronto, Ontario, with offices in Cambridge, Massachusetts. ProMIS is listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol PMN, and on the OTCQB Venture Market under the symbol ARFXF
Visit us at www.promisneurosciences.com, follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn

For Investor Relations please contact:
Alpine Equity Advisors
Nicholas Rigopulos, President
nick@alpineequityadv.com
Tel. 617 901-0785

The TSX has not reviewed and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. This information release contains certain forward-looking information. Such information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from those implied by statements herein, and therefore these statements should not be read as guarantees of future performance or results. All forward-looking statements are based on the Company’s current beliefs as well as assumptions made by and information currently available to it as well as other factors. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this press release. Due to risks and uncertainties, including the risks and uncertainties identified by the Company in its public securities filings, actual events may differ materially from current expectations. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Source: ProMIS Neurosciences Inc.

Would the Crypto Market Trend Up With Biden’s Clear Set of Rules?



Cryptocurrency Executive Order from White House Could Come Before President’s Day

 

The White House, according to Bloomberg, is said to be drafting an executive order for cryptocurrencies. It is more focused on being restrictive than creating a level playing field for all currencies. The expectation is the chief executive could execute the order during the month of February.

President Biden is looking to get ahead of crypto issues and give regulation a priority. The plan tasks multiple federal agencies to evaluate risks and opportunities within the digital currency environment. Bloomberg cited unnamed sources when they suggested that the reports were expected to be presented to the White House quickly.

Senior Biden administration officials have already had several talks related to the plan. Their recommendations are due to be submitted to the chief executive in the coming weeks, according to the report.

As technology rapidly changes, under current statutes and regs, there is no definitive legal framework for cryptocurrency or the regulation of crypto exchanges. The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), for its part, has been calling for a greater level of oversight over the crypto market.

Blockchain and digital assets are a challenge for most to understand, this is why so many outright dismiss the asset. Other skeptics point to the lack of clarity in crypto-related policy as a reason not to get involved.  Executives within the industry like Sam Bankman-Fried the CEO at FTX have called for more regulation, saying it would remove barriers to entry for many retail and institutional investors.

The push by the Biden White House puts the executive branch at the center of efforts to set policies and regulate the new market.  The related potential oversight agencies have been waiting for legislative guidance. This development follows a sell-off in crypto markets which follows other asset weaknesses in the face of higher costs to participate in the economy.  Bitcoin which traded above $68,000 in November broke below $36,000 and ether fell below $2,500, wiping out $350 billion in value from the total crypto market over the weekend.

Federal agencies, including the Financial Stability Oversight Council, are tasked with publishing reports on the systemic impacts and illicit uses of cryptocurrencies. A similar report from the Federal Reserve had detailed the pros and cons of a central bank digital currency, or fully digitizing the U.S. dollar with a “legal tender” status.

According to the report, the executive order is expected to ensure the U.S. is not left behind, but is a competitive player in the evolving field of digital assets.

Paul Hoffman

Managing Editor, Channelchek

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Sources

https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2022-01-21/white-house-is-set-to-put-itself-at-center-of-u-s-crypto-policy?sref=3REHEaVI

https://time.com/nextadvisor/investing/cryptocurrency/bitcoin-record-high-price

https://www.barrons.com/articles/cryptocurrency-exchanges-regulation-sec-coinbase-51620335275

 

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Aurania Resources (AUIAF)(ARU:CA) – Temporary Suspension of Activities in Ecuador; Key Executive Departs

Thursday, January 27, 2022

Aurania Resources (AUIAF)(ARU:CA)
Temporary Suspension of Activities in Ecuador; Key Executive Departs

As of April 24, 2020, Noble Capital Markets research on Aurania Resources is published under ticker symbols (AUIAF and ARU:CA). The price target is in USD and based on ticker symbol AUIAF. Research reports dated prior to April 24, 2020 may not follow these guidelines and could account for a variance in the price target.

Aurania Resources Ltd. is a Canada-based junior mining exploration company engaged in the identification, evaluation, acquisition, and exploration of mineral property interests, with a focus on precious metals and copper. Its flagship asset, The Lost Cities-Cutucu Project, is in southeastern Ecuador in the Province of Morona-Santiago. The company also has several minor projects in Switzerland.

Mark Reichman, Senior Research Analyst of Natural Resources, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

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

    Temporary suspension of activities. Aurania has suspended a majority of activities temporarily in Ecuador where the government recently issued a “Red Alert” for 193 of 195 Cantons due to increasing coronavirus cases. Due to the area where it operates, Aurania has greater exposure to indigenous communities that are vulnerable to infection. Moreover, there are currently nine active COVID cases among Aurania’s personnel. The suspension of activities is expected to last roughly one month although field work may continue with reduced personnel in areas where there is no interaction with local communities.

    Tsenken Hole 9 Results.  Results were received from Hole TSN1-009 at Tsenken which tested for copper-silver mineralization in evaporite mineral beds within sedimentary layers and sampled the contact of a salt wall lying along a prominent fault structure. The hole was intended to intersect a target at a depth of 400 to 500 meters but stopped at a depth of 369 meters due to a collapse in the salt …



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. 

Avivagen Inc. (VIVXF)(VIV:CA) – Names A President, Reports Fiscal 2021 Results

Thursday, January 27, 2022

Avivagen Inc. (VIVXF)(VIV:CA)
Names A President, Reports Fiscal 2021 Results

Avivagen Inc is a Canadian based company operating in the healthcare sector. It develops science-based, natural health products for animals. It develops and commercializes products for livestock feeds to replace antibiotics for growth promotion and to help prevent disease by supporting the animal’s own health defenses. Its product range includes OxC-beta, Vivamune health chews, Oximunol chewable tablets, and Carotenoid Oxidation products.

Joe Gomes, Senior Research Analyst, 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.

    4Q21 Results. Avivagen’s management reported revenue of $368,504 (all figures in Canadian $) in the quarter, up from $287,897 last year, but down from our estimated revenue of $1.4 million. The miss is mostly due to a Philippines order that will be recognized in the first quarter of fiscal 2022. Net loss for the quarter was $1.4 million, or $0.03 per share versus a net loss of $1.2 million, or $0.03 per share, in 4Q20. We had forecasted a net loss of $993,00, or $0.02 per share.

    FY21 Results.  Revenue for the 2021 fiscal year was reported at $1.3 million, a $0.1 million increase over the prior year’s $1.2 million. Operating loss for the year totaled $4.1 million compared to a loss of $3.4 million in fiscal 2020, due to an increase in finance cost and increasing operational expenses. Net loss was reported at $6.4 million or $0.12 per share, versus a $4.8 million loss, or …



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. 

Comtech (CMTL) – Rejects Acacia Offer

Thursday, January 27, 2022

Comtech (CMTL)
Rejects Acacia Offer

Comtech Telecommunications Corp. engages in the design, development, production, and marketing of products, systems, and services for advanced communications solutions in the United States and internationally. It operates in three segments: Telecommunications Transmission, Mobile Data Communications, and RF Microwave Amplifiers. The Telecommunications Transmission segment provides satellite earth station equipment and systems, over-the-horizon microwave systems, and forward error correction technology, which are used in various commercial and government applications, including backhaul of wireless and cellular traffic, broadcasting (including HDTV), IP-based communications traffic, long distance telephony, and secure defense applications. The Mobile Data Communications segment provides mobile satellite transceivers, and computers and satellite earth station network gateways and associated installation, training, and maintenance services; supplies and operates satellite packet data networks, including arranging and providing satellite capacity; and offers microsatellites and related components. The RF Microwave Amplifiers segment designs, develops, manufactures, and markets satellite earth station traveling wave tube amplifiers (TWTA) and broadband amplifiers. Its amplifiers are used in broadcast and broadband satellite communication; defense applications, such as telecommunications systems and electronic warfare systems; and commercial applications comprising oncology treatment systems, as well as to amplify signals carrying voice, video, or data for air-to-satellite-to-ground communications. The company serves satellite systems integrators, wireless and other communication service providers, broadcasters, defense contractors, military, governments, and oil companies. Comtech markets its products through independent representatives and value-added resellers. The company was founded in 1967 and is headquartered in Melville, New York.

Joe Gomes, Senior Research Analyst, 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.

    Rejects Acacia. Comtech’s Board has unanimously rejected Acacia Research Corporation’s October 29th offer to purchase Comtech for $30 per share. Comtech’s new Board, including a representative from Outerbridge, concluded Acacia’s offer “grossly undervalues the Company and is not in the best interest of Comtech’s shareholders.”

    Not A Surprise.  We are not surprised by the rejection as, at the time of the offer announcement, we had noted that Outerbridge had originally valued Comtech in the $32-$41 range and subsequently had valued Comtech’s NG911 business alone as worth more than its previously stated range …



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.