Advertising Budgets are Going Where the Eyes Are

 

Ten years ago 15% of Ad Money was Spent on Internet Ads, Guess what that Percentage is Today?

 

Soap operas, magazines, TV sports, local radio; they all allow niche target-advertising.  But, their slice of the advertising-dollar pie is shrinking precipitously. This trend has been in place for a while and still accelerating. Traditional ways to reach motivated buyers are losing out to the newer competitors for ad-dollars. In 2020, this has become even more complicated.

 

The days of scanning through newspapers for sales or dentist office magazines to learn more about a product are almost nostalgic. Ad-Targeting is much more refined in the new digital world. With a more accurate dataset of consumer likes and dislikes, online advertising has leaped to the forefront of marketing strategies. Marketers have recognized the consumer trends and have adapted to meet them; targeted digital advertisements allows them to be significantly more strategic.

 

Advertising Spending Trends

A bit over a decade (2009), the internet represented only 15% of all U.S. ad spending.

               Total dollars spent: $117 Billion

               TV: 39% of ad spending

               Print Media: 34% of ad spending

               Internet: 15%

 

Today (2020), more is spent on internet advertising alone than all U.S. ad spending of ten years earlier.

               Total dollars spent: $263 Billion (est.)

               TV: 28%

               Print Media: 11%

               Internet: 53%

 

Share of U.S. Ad Spending by Medium, 2009 (left) vs. 2019 (right)

Internet ad spending captured nearly half of ad dollars in 2019, up from about 15 percent a decade ago.

 

2020 and Beyond

The average social media user spends 2-plus hours a day browsing their feeds. The larger social media providers are monitoring people’s usage, likes, and dislikes. This creates a massive smart-platform for target-marketing products. The platforms continue to update and improve their methods, including increasingly higher levels of sophisticated algorithms—essentially artificial intelligence to connect a to users in their niche. The relevance of ads that users encounter is now superior to that they would see or hear from more traditional outlets. The big providers, Facebook, Snapchat, Twitter, and Instagram, all offer promoted advertisements that pop up on users’ pages while they scroll their feed. On average, users connect with three or more of their social media accounts a day.

 

Social Media ad spending is forecast to increase by 20% to $43 billion in 2020. Television advertising has been hard hit, not by social media competition, but by the lack of aired sports competitions. With the postponement of 2020 Summer Olympics $1.2 billion, the cancellation of March Madness and sports in general, the NBA and NHL playoff cancellation could cost $2 billion, and the seasons could cost around $700 million.    New estimates forecast that U.S. TV advertising spending will decline between 22.3% and 29.3%, mostly due to the curtailment of sports programs.

 

Google ad revenue is projected to be $39.5 Billion in 2020; this is down by 5.3% from 2019. The decrease is a direct result of the steps to curtail the coronavirus, which shut many businesses down and caused others to go into “safety mode” by cutting their spending. However, spending is expected to rebound at unprecedented rates, up 20% in 2021 as businesses begin to restart.

 

Ad spending on podcasts is forecast to grow 15% from 2019 to around $3.4 B by year-end. Around 40% of Americans now listen to podcasts on a monthly basis. Companies are adapting to new sectors to reach new markets.

 

Take-Away

Although 2020 has provided some one-time reshuffling of ad-dollar resources, the trend toward social media platforms is firmly in place. This is worth noting if you manage a media company, adapting and changing business models may put you in a position to take advantage of these changes. Investors may find undervalued traditional media companies that have been tossed out with others– those that a bit of research indicate are making smart moves. As for social media outlets, it looks like advanced data-driven technology is giving them their day in the sun.

 

Suggested Reading:

Will Broadcast Mergers and Acquisitions Surge?

More Accurate than Polls to Gauge Election Outcomes

Cashing In

 

Enjoy the Benefits of Premium Channelchek Content at No Cost

Each event in our popular Virtual Road Shows Series has maximum capacity of 100 investors online. To take part, listen to and perhaps get your questions answered, see which virtual investor meeting intrigues you here.

 

Sources:

https://adage.com/article/year-end-lists-2019/internet-medias-share-us-ad-spending-has-more-tripled-over-past-decade/2221701

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Television_consumption

https://www.mediapost.com/publications/article/350281/us-tv-average-ad-spending-to-sink-25-in-the-fir.html

Picture: Etrade advertisement from the day after Superbowl February 2009.

Release – Sierra Metals Reports Solid Consolidated Financial Results For The Second Quarter Of 2020, Despite Covid-19 Interruptions

Sierra Metals Reports Solid Consolidated Financial Results For The Second Quarter Of 2020, Despite Covid-19 Interruptions

Issuing Revised Production Guidance

Conference Call August 14, 2020 At 10:30 AM (EDT) Registration Link Below


(All $ figures reported in USD)

  • Adjusted EBITDA of $12.6 million in Q2 2020 in-line with Q2 2019, as lower revenues due to COVID government mandated curtailments were partially offset by reduced operating costs
  • Operating cash flows before movements in working capital of $13.2 million in Q2 2020 increased from $12.8 million in Q2 2019
  • Revenue from metals payable of $41.9 million in Q2 2020 decreased from $50.7 million in Q2 2019 as the COVID-19 pandemic impacted quarterly production and metal prices
  • Q2 2020 consolidated copper production of 9.7 million pounds was consistent with Q2 2019; consolidated silver production of 0.6 million ounces, consolidated zinc production of 13.7 million pounds and consolidated lead production of 6.4 million pounds declined by 32%, 17% and 21% respectively; consolidated gold production of 2,762 ounces increased 9% as compared to Q2 2019
  • Quarterly silver production declined as Cusi remained under care and maintenance throughout the quarter. The Company announced restarting of Cusi operations on July 28, 2020
  • Revised production guidance issued which anticipates that 2020 copper equivalent production will now range between 110.1 to 122.3 million pounds; or silver equivalent production will range between 17.4 to 19.4 million ounces; or zinc equivalent production will range between 286.8 to 318.7 million pounds.
  • The Board of Directors has approved studies to be completed for potential expansions of all mines, as per ongoing Company strategy
  • $40.7 million of cash and cash equivalents as at June 30, 2020
  • $49.4 million of working capital as at June 30, 2020
  • Net Debt of $58.7 million as at June 30, 2020
  • Shareholder conference call to be held Friday, August 14, 2020, at 10:30 AM (EDT) – Preregistration required please see link below

(1) Silver equivalent ounces
and copper and zinc equivalent pounds for Q2 2020 were calculated using the following realized prices: $16.59/oz Ag, $2.40/lb Cu, $0.89/lb Zn, $0.76/lb Pb, $1,722/oz Au. Silver equivalent ounces and copper and zinc equivalent pounds for Q2 2019 were calculated using the following realized prices: $14.88/oz Ag, $2.75/lb Cu, $1.20/lb Zn, $0.85/lb Pb, $1,323/oz Au. Silver equivalent ounces and copper and zinc equivalent pounds for 6M 2020 were calculated using the following realized prices: $16.58/oz Ag, $2.46/lb Cu, $0.91/lb Zn, $0.78/lb Pb, $1,654/oz Au. Silver equivalent ounces and copper and zinc equivalent pounds for 6M 2019 were calculated using the following realized prices: $15.23/oz Ag, $2.80/lb Cu, $/1.22lb Zn, $0.90/lb Pb, $1,314/oz Au.

 

Toronto, ON – August 13, 2020Sierra Metals Inc. (TSX: SMT) (BVL: SMT) (NYSE AMERICAN: SMTS) (“Sierra Metals” or “the Company”) today reported solid consolidated financial results despite the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, including a strong performance from the Bolivar Mine.  Results included revenue of $41.9 million and adjusted EBITDA of $12.6 million on throughput of 511,485 tonnes and metal production of 22.7 million copper equivalent pounds, or 3.3 million silver equivalent ounces, or 61.4 million zinc equivalent pounds for the three month period ended June 30, 2020.

 

Revenues were negatively impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic on production and metal prices during the quarter. Average realized prices in Q2 2020 for copper, zinc and lead were 13%, 26% and 11% lower, respectively as compared to realized prices in Q2 2019. Silver and gold prices were 11% and 30% higher than their respective average realized prices in Q2 2019. Adjusted EBITDA generated during Q2 2020 was in-line with Q2 2019 however, as lower operating costs offset lower revenues.

 

Yauricocha’s cash costs declined 22% quarter over quarter due to lower operating costs per tonne.  AISC per copper equivalent pound decreased 9% as lower cash costs were partially offset by higher treatment and refining charges and lower copper equivalent pounds sold as compared to Q2 2019. The Yauricocha Mine generated positive EBITDA during the quarter, despite the 20% lower throughput as compared to the same quarter of 2019. The mine resumed normal operations on June 5, 2020, as the Peruvian Government included mining and related activities in phase two of its economic recovery plan. The management team believes that the mine has operational flexibility to recover part of the production lost during the quarter.

 

Cash costs at Bolivar for Q2 2020 dropped 32% as compared to the same quarter of 2019, as the mine operated at lower operating costs and achieved mill throughput that was just 5% lower than Q2 2019, despite the impact of the COVID-19 related shutdowns in Mexico. The increase in revenues from the Bolivar Mine more than compensated for the loss of revenues from the Cusi Mine that remained closed throughout the quarter.  Bolivar generated $6.6 million in EBITDA during the quarter. The mine resumed normal operations on June 1, 2020, as the Mexican Government deemed mining an essential activity effective that date.

 

Cusi remained in care and maintenance throughout Q2 2020 due to its proximity to urban communities and hence there was no production during the quarter. Cusi generated EBITDA of $0.2 million on revenue of $1.7 million during the quarter resulting from the sale of silver concentrate remaining at the end of Q1 2020. Cusi production recommenced on July 28, 2020 and a process has been implemented at the mine to mitigate the risk of COVID-19 to employees at the site through a testing and quarantine methodology. During the period of care and maintenance, the management team has had the time to complete an optimised view of the entire mine operation. Mine development is ongoing at Cusi to provide access to higher-grade economic ore and feed ore to the mill at the targeted rate of 1,200 tpd. Production will include ore from Santa Rosa de Lima zone, the Promontorio zone, as well as from a series of east-west vein systems including the new high-grade zone, Northeast-Southwest system of Epithermal Veins (“NSEV”) announced on June 18, 2020 that cross the Cusi fault near the Santa Rosa de Lima zone.

 

The Company expects to continue development and infrastructure improvements at Bolivar with the aim to push throughput close to 5,000 tonnes per day (“tpd”) before end of the year. At Cusi, mine development will continue to provide access to the higher-grade economic ore and feed ore to the mill at the targeted rate of 1,200 tpd. Additional drilling is also planned to better understand the extension of the NSEV zone at depth and to the Northeast. Further, the Company intends to commence studies on the potential expansion of Cusi and begin work on a new tailing dam near the Mal Paso mill, providing for deposition capacity for the foreseeable future.

 

“The Company was able to maintain essential activities while fully complying with the government protocols during the state of emergency,” stated Luis Marchese, CEO of Sierra Metals. “We achieved remarkable results and reported solid revenue, cashflow and positive EBITDA in the second quarter despite the negative implications of the COVID-19 related shutdowns. We also achieved lower costs at the Bolivar and Cusi mines which are attributable to higher operating efficiency and the prudent management of capital expenditures to protect the balance sheet, while also realizing improved head grades and more favorable foreign exchange rates. A good portion of the credit for these results is owed to the employees at Yauricocha and Bolivar who were able to maintain a high level of productivity with a reduced workforce. Also, to the management team, who led the Company through what we consider its biggest challenge in its history, while all operations were curtailed or placed into care and maintenance during the quarter as metal prices dropped sharply during the crisis. We are currently running our three operations at high operating rates.  However, we remain cognizant that COVID-19 cases remain high in Peru and Mexico. As such, we continue proceeding cautiously, adhering to strict health protocols to protect our employees and the communities in which we operate, as well as to mitigate the potential for further work stoppages.”

 

He continued, “looking ahead to the second half of the year, due to our operating flexibility, we have the potential to recover some of the lost production experienced during the shutdowns at Yauricocha. We are also excited to see Bolivar continue in its strides towards the 5,000 tpd throughput level.  Cusi having restarted earlier than anticipated is on track and performing well on its way to the 1,200 tpd throughput level. Metals prices have strengthened at the start of the third quarter especially for copper and precious metals. We are optimistic that with improved operating efficiencies and potential higher metal prices we will see a stronger second half for 2020.  Furthermore, we will continue seeking the required permits to increase Yauricocha’s throughput to 3,600 tonnes per day for next year.”

 

He concluded, “Sierra Metals’ balance sheet, working capital and cash position remain strong. Considering that we remain in a vulnerable environment due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we are optimistic that further cash flow and liquidity improvements should be realized in the second half of 2020, due to higher production rates and improved metal prices.  This would allow the Company to complete more of the deferred required capital expenditures and potential returns of capital which had been originally planned for this year. Management remains committed to the prudent and sustainable growth plan for the Company and more importantly to improving the per share value benefiting all shareholders now and, in the years to come.”

 

The following table displays selected financial and operational information for the three and six months ended June 30, 2020:

 

Q2 2020 Financial Highlights

  • Revenue from metals payable of $41.9 million in Q2 2020 decreased by 17% from $50.7 million in Q2 2019. Revenues declined due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which impacted mine production and metal prices during the quarter. Average realized prices in Q2 2020 for copper, zinc and lead were 13%, 26% and 11% lower respectively as compared to realized prices in Q2 2019. Silver and gold prices were 11% and 30% higher than their respective average realized prices in Q2 2019;
  • Yauricocha’s cost of sales per copper equivalent payable pound was $0.94 (Q2 2019 – $1.27), cash cost per copper equivalent payable pound was $0.91 (Q2 2019 – $1.16), and AISC per copper equivalent payable pound of $1.80 (Q2 2019 – $1.98). The decrease in the AISC per copper equivalent payable pound for Q2 2020 compared to Q2 2019 was due to lower cash costs and lower sustaining costs, which were partially offset by increase in treatment and refining charges and lower number of equivalent copper pounds sold;
  • Bolivar’s cost of sales per copper equivalent payable pound was $1.01 (Q2 2019 – $1.77), cash cost per copper equivalent payable pound was $1.02 (Q2 2019 – $1.51), and AISC per copper equivalent payable pound was $1.60 (Q2 2019 – $2.55) for Q2 2020. The decrease in the AISC per copper equivalent payable pound was largely due to lower cash costs, lower sustaining costs and higher copper equivalent pounds sold as compared to Q2 2019;
  • Cusi’s cost of sales per silver equivalent payable ounce was $16.33 (Q2 2019 – $10.99), cash cost per silver equivalent payable ounce was $18.66 (Q2 2019 – $16.49), and AISC per silver equivalent payable ounce was $26.25 (Q2 2019 – $25.67) for Q2 2020. AISC per silver equivalent payable ounce increased largely due to lower amount of equivalent silver sold as compared to Q2 2019, as concentrate inventory at the end of Q1 2020 was sold during Q2 2020. There was no production at Cusi throughout the quarter;
  • Adjusted EBITDA(1) of $12.6 million for Q2 2020 was in-line with Q2 2019;
  • Net income (loss) attributable to shareholders for Q2 2020 was $0.2 million (Q2 2019: $(0.2) million) or $0.00 per share (basic and diluted) (Q2 2019: $(0.00));
  • Adjusted net income attributable to shareholders (1) of $1.3 million, or $0.01 per share, for Q2 2020 compared to the adjusted net income of $1.6 million, or $0.01 per share for Q2 2019;
  • A large component of the net income for every period is the non-cash depletion charge in Peru, which was $1.6 million for Q2 2020 (Q2 2019: $2.4 million). The non-cash depletion charge is based on the aggregate fair value of the Yauricocha mineral property at the date of acquisition of Corona of $371.0 million amortized over the total proven and probable reserves of the mine;
  • Cash flow generated from operations before movements in working capital of $13.2 million for Q2 2020 increased compared to $12.8 million in Q2 2019. The increase in operating cash flow is mainly the result of COVID-19 related reductions in general and administrative costs (“G&A”), as gross margins remained in-line with Q2 2019; and
  • Cash and cash equivalents of $40.7 million and working capital of $49.4 million as at June 30, 2020 compared to $43.0 million and $49.9 million, respectively, at the end of 2019. Cash and cash equivalents decreased due to $14.5 million of capital expenditures and interest payment of $2.3 million were partially offset by $14.7 million of operating cash flows.

 (1) This is a non-IFRS performance measure, see non-IFRS Performance Measures section of this MD&A.

Project Development

  • Mine development at Bolívar during Q2 2020 totaled 1,296 meters. To offset impact of lower capacities, affected by COVID-19, major portion of this development (1,282 meters) was to prepare stopes for mine production. The balance of 14 meters were developed at the deepening of ramps and service ramps to be used for ventilation and pumping in El Gallo Inferior and Bolivar West orebody; and
  • During Q2 2020, at the Cusi property, mine development totaled 146.0 meters to stope preparation in various zones within the mine;

Exploration Update

Peru:

In the Q2 2020, there was no surface exploration as a result of the Covid-19 emergency declaration. Underground exploration is planned to resume in September and surface exploration in October.

Mexico:

Bolivar

  • Total 1,344 meters were drilled in Q2 2020. 558 meters of surface exploration included 9 meters at Bolivar West and 549 meters at Porphyry System. Additionally, 786 meters were drilled inside the mine as infill drilling.

Cusi

  • During Q2 2020 the Company drilled 639.80 meters of surface diamond drilling to verify the settlement of the subsidence zone at the Promontorio area and to explore the extension of the NE veins system to the Northeast.

Guidance

The Company has issued revised 2020 production guidance and anticipates that 2020 copper equivalent production will range between 110.1 to 122.3 million pounds; or silver equivalent production will range between 17.4 to 19.4 million ounces; or zinc equivalent production will range between 286.8 to 318.7 million pounds. The decrease from the original 2020 guidance issued (see press release dated January 23, 2020) is related to work stoppages during the government mandated shutdowns due to the COVID-19 pandemic in Q2 2020. Please note that revised guidance assumes no further shutdowns or work stoppages as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and is based solely on what management expects the Company’s operations can produce this year. 

A table summarizing 2020 production guidance has been provided below:

Approval to proceed with Expansion Studies

As per the ongoing strategy of the Company, the Board of Directors has approved a proposal by management for expenditure to study further expansions at all three mines beyond the current capacity ramp-up levels. These studies will incorporate the latest NI 43-101 mineral resource updates, including the significant mineral resource increases at Bolivar reported in December 2019 and in March 2020. We believe the Company has excellent land packages with tremendous resource growth potential to support further organic growth at all mines.

Conference Call and Webcast

Sierra Metals’ senior management will host a conference call on Friday, August 14, 2020, at 10:30 AM (EDT) to discuss the Company’s financial and operating results for the three months ended June 30, 2020.

Via Webcast:

A live audio webcast of the meeting will be available on the Company’s website:

https://event.on24.com/wcc/r/2393587/AB458B2015EA9FEC98705CC780F49912

The webcast, along with presentation slides, will be archived for 180 days at www.sierrametals.com.

Via phone:

To pre-register for this conference call, please use the registration link provided below. After registering, a confirmation will be sent through email, including dial in details and unique conference call codes for entry. As well, reminders will be sent to registered participants in advance of the call.

If you have trouble registering, and need extra assistance please dial: +1 (888) 869-1189 or +1 (706) 643-5902.

Registration is open throughout the live call, however, to ensure you are connected for the full call we suggest registering a day in advance or at minimum 10 minutes before the start of the call.

 

Conference Call Registration Link:

http://www.directeventreg.com/registration/event/3580728

 

Qualified Persons

All technical production data contained in this news release has been reviewed and approved by:

Americo Zuzunaga, FAusIMM (CP Mining Engineer) and Vice President of Corporate Planning is a Qualified Person and chartered professional qualifying as a Competent Person under the Joint Ore Reserves Committee (JORC) Australasian Code for Reporting of Exploration Results, Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves.

 

Augusto Chung, FAusIMM (CP Metallurgist) and Vice President Special Projects and Metallurgy and a chartered professional qualifying as a Competent Person on metallurgical processes.

 

About Sierra Metals

Sierra Metals Inc. is a diversified Canadian mining company focused on the production and development of precious and base metals from its polymetallic Yauricocha Mine in Peru, and Bolivar and Cusi Mines in Mexico. The Company is focused on increasing production volume and growing mineral resources. Sierra Metals has recently had several new key discoveries and still has many more exciting brownfield exploration opportunities at all three Mines in Peru and Mexico that are within close proximity to the existing mines. Additionally, the Company also has large land packages at all three mines with several prospective regional targets providing longer-term exploration upside and mineral resource growth potential.

 

The Company’s Common Shares trade on the Toronto Stock Exchange and the Bolsa de Valores de Lima under the symbol “SMT” and on the NYSE American Exchange under the symbol “SMTS”.

 

For further information regarding Sierra Metals, please visit www.sierrametals.com or contact any of the following at +1 416 366 7777 or by email at [email protected]:

 

Mike McAllister, CPIR

V.P., Investor Relations

Ed Guimaraes

CFO

Luis Marchese

CEO

 

Continue to Follow, Like and Watch our progress:

Web: www.sierrametals.com | Twitter: sierrametals | Facebook: SierraMetalsInc | LinkedIn: Sierra Metals Inc  | Instagram:
sierrametals | LinkedIn: SierraMetals

 

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains “forward-looking information” and “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Canadian and U.S. securities laws related to the Company (collectively, “forward-looking information”). Forward-looking information includes, but is not limited to, statements with respect to the Company’s operations, including anticipated developments in the Company’s operations in future periods, the Company’s planned exploration activities, the adequacy of the Company’s financial resources, and other events or conditions that may occur in the future. Statements concerning mineral reserve and resource estimates may also be considered to constitute forward-looking statements to the extent that they involve estimates of the mineralization that will be encountered if and when the properties are developed or further developed. These statements relate to analyses and other information that are based on forecasts of future results, estimates of amounts not yet determinable and assumptions of management. Any statements that express or involve discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance (often, but not always, using words or phrases such as “expects”, “anticipates”, “plans”, “projects”, “estimates”, “assumes”, “intends”, “strategy”, “goals”, “objectives”, “potential” or variations thereof, or stating that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “might” or “will” be taken, occur or be achieved, or the negative of any of these terms and similar expressions) are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking information.

 

Forward-looking information is subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties, which could cause actual events or results to differ from those reflected in the forward-looking information, including, without limitation, the risks described under the heading “Risk Factors” in our Annual Information Form dated March 30, 2020 in respect of the year ended December 31, 2019 and other risks identified in the Company’s filings with Canadian securities regulators and the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, which filings are available at www.sedar.com and www.sec.gov, respectively.

 

The risk factors referred to above is not exhaustive of the factors that may affect any of the Company’s forward-looking information. Forward looking information includes statements about the future and are inherently uncertain, and the Company’s actual achievements or other future events or conditions may differ materially from those reflected in the forward-looking information due to a variety of risks, uncertainties and other factors. The Company’s statements containing forward-looking information are based on the beliefs, expectations and opinions of management on the date the statements are made, and the Company does not assume any obligation to update forward-looking information if circumstances or management’s beliefs, expectations or opinions should change, other than as required by applicable law. For the reasons set forth above, one should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information.

 

Release – Dyadic Announces Second Quarter 2020 Results and Highlights Recent Company Progress

Dyadic Announces Second Quarter 2020 Results and Highlights Recent Company Progress

 

  • Entered into two new collaborations with top tier animal health companies
  • Entered into a fully funded human health collaboration with a top five global pharmaceutical company
  • Started an animal trial for SARS-CoV-2 RBD vaccine candidate in Israel and another animal trial in European is expected to begin soon
  • Dyadic selected by Frederick National Laboratory to engineer several C1 cell lines to express COVID-19 vaccine candidates
  • Entered into a new fully funded SARS-CoV-2 vaccine research collaboration
  • Filing an S-3 Shelf-registration statement with the SEC and establishing a $50 million At the Money (ATM) offering program
  • Continued strong financial position to advance the Company’s programs

 

JUPITER, FL / ACCESSWIRE / August 13, 2020 / Dyadic International, Inc. (“Dyadic”) (NASDAQ:DYAI), a global biotechnology company focused on further improving, applying and deploying its proprietary C1 gene expression platform to accelerate development, lower production costs and improve the performance of biologic vaccines and drugs at flexible commercial scales, today announced its financial results for the quarter ended June 30, 2020, and recent developments.

“We have made terrific progress on multiple fronts in the second quarter – further advancing and strengthening our diverse and growing portfolio of opportunities by adding new top tier collaborations in both the animal and human health fields. We are expanding our commercial reach in large and growing addressable markets while continuing to report exciting and new scientific data and progress. These developments reinforce the broad application potential of our C1 technology as well as some of its key attributes including high productivity and low cost of goods,” said Mark Emalfarb, Dyadic’s Chief Executive Officer.

“In response to COVID-19, we have taken the necessary health and safety measures to protect our employees, lab teams and partners around the world who, for the most part, have been working remotely. We are fortunate that beyond those changes in the way we conduct our daily work, COVID-19 has had a minimal impact on the Company’s ability to continue our progress,” Mr. Emalfarb concluded.

“The continued growth of our Company has added to our visibility in the investment community with our recent inclusion in the Russell 2000 and 3000 indices providing us the opportunity to further broaden our shareholder base. Our management team remains highly energized by the significant number of opportunities available to us, supported by best in-class scientific partners, our on-going R&D collaborations funded partially or fully by our partners, and our active and diverse pipeline of potentially high return projects.” said Michael Tarnok, Dyadic’s Board Chairman.

RECENT DEVELOPMENTS

  • On July 15, 2020, Dyadic signed a fully funded R&D collaboration with one of the top five global pharmaceutical companies for human health. Under this agreement, Dyadic will be expressing two different types of therapeutic compounds.
  • On July 8, 2020, Dyadic announced the signing of two new fully funded collaborations with two of the leading global animal health companies to demonstrate the potential application of C1 technology platform for expression and production of therapeutic proteins for companion and farm animal diseases. The Company has rapidly expanded into the animal health market and is currently working with all four leading animal health companies. The first two projects with one of the top four companies has been expanded into the second phase of development and the Company has received additional funding. Dyadic’s C1 gene expression technology is well-suited to benefit this market, as cost of goods is a more critical issue in this market as compared to the human vaccines and drugs market. The C1 technology can more efficiently produce diverse types of biologic vaccines and drugs at a lower cost, which could enable certain biologics to get to market that would otherwise be shelved, due to the higher cost of manufacturing using existing cell lines.
  • On June 29, 2020, Dyadic was added to the Russell 2000 Index and the Russell 3000 Index, which are widely used by investment managers and institutional investors for passive funds and investment products and as benchmarks for active investment strategies.
  • The Company has formed new partnerships globally which have resulted in many new opportunities related to COVID-19 and for future infectious diseases, pandemics, epidemics and other biological outbreaks. We are making significant progress in these efforts. The Company is currently working with a number of global partners on potential COVID-19 vaccines, including but not limited to, the following:
    • The Company was selected by the Frederick National Laboratory to engineer Dyadic’s patented and proprietary C1 cell lines to produce a number of COVID-19 vaccine candidates which will be utilized by the Vaccine Research Center (VRC) of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), at the National Institutes of Health.
    • Israel Institute for Biologic Research (“IIBR”) is exploring the potential of Dyadic’s industrially proven C1 gene expression platform to express a recombinant SARS-CoV-2 vaccine candidate based on the receptor binding domain (RBD) of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein. The interim results of the mice trials using the C1 SARS-CoV-2 RBD vaccine candidate, as reported to Dyadic by IIBR, generated high neutralizing antibody titers. Accordingly, we anticipate that the IIBR will start hamster studies earlier than originally forecasted.
    • Collaboration with three scientists who are a part of the EU ZAPI initiative: Dr. Bosch at Utrecht University (UU), Dr. Haagmans at Erasmus Medical Center (EMC), and Prof. Osterhaus at University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, DE (TiHo), and Mr. Es-Sbai at CR20 a clinical contract research organization to pre-clinically and clinically evaluate SARS-CoV-2 Receptor Binding Domain vaccine candidates to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic.
    • Collaboration with Ufovax, a spin-off vaccine company of Scripps Research.
    • On August 10, 2020, the Company entered into another fully funded SARS-CoV-2 vaccine research collaboration.
    • The Company is in discussions with and is pursuing a number of other opportunities where it may be able to apply its C1 gene expression platform to help combat the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • Today, Dyadic is filing a shelf registration statement on Form S-3 with the Securities and Exchange Commission for future offerings of up to $50 million of Dyadic’s common stock. In addition, Dyadic established an At the Market offering (ATM) offering program under which it may sell, from time to time, shares of its common stock for aggregate gross proceeds of $50 million. The shares will be offered through Jefferies LLC which will act in its capacity as sales agent. The Company’s balance sheet and cash position are very strong, with adequate financial resources to continue our near and longer term business plans. However, management believes it is prudent to have an effective registration statement in place which will provide the Company with quick access to the capital markets, in order to respond quickly to future business opportunities should they arise.

As a result of the Company’s extensive business development activities, the management anticipates closing additional collaborations with other top tier human pharmaceutical companies by the end of 2020, working toward the Company’s goal of becoming a platform of choice for manufacturing protein-based biologics.

SCIENTIFIC ACHIEVEMENTS

  • The Company generated a number of C1 cell lines that express high levels of the Receptor Binding Domain (RBD) of the SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein stably. In a comparison of biomolecular binding kinetic assays between C1-RBD and CHO-RBD, the equilibrium dissociation constant was comparable between C1 and CHO. Additionally, all RBD neutralizing mAbs that were identified in infected SARS-CoV-2 patients efficiently bound to the C1 expressed RBD demonstrating that the C1-expressed RBD was properly folded and has high potential to generate an immune response and protection against SARS-CoV-2.
  • Dyadic continues to advance its self-funded glycoengineering program through the development of C1 cell lines that produce high proportions of human-like glycoforms while reducing the extra-cellular protease background in C1 cell lines. The Company’s glycoengineering programs are delivering high proportion of human glycoforms G0, G2, G0F and G2F.
  • The Company generated a 14X deletion protease C1 cell line that is fifty (50) fold lower in protease activity than the 4X deletion protease C1 cell line which helps to produce higher amounts of more stable vaccines and drugs.

FINANCIAL RESULTS

FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2020

At June 30, 2020, cash and cash equivalents were approximately $11.8 million compared to $4.8 million at December 31, 2019. The carrying value of short-term and long-term investment grade securities, including accrued interest at June 30, 2020, was approximately $20.3 million compared to $31.2 million at December 31, 2019.

Research and development revenue for the quarter ended June 30, 2020, increased to approximately $524,000 compared to $391,000 for the quarter ended June 30, 2019. Cost of research and development revenue for the quarter ended June 30, 2020 increased to approximately $624,000 compared to $322,000 for the quarter ended June 30, 2019. The increase in revenue and cost of research and development revenue for the quarter ended June 30, 2020 reflected nine on-going research collaborations compared to four collaborations for the same period a year ago. The increase in provision for contract losses of approximately $75,000 reflected the activities of one biopharmaceutical collaboration research project.

Research and development expenses for the quarter ended June 30, 2020 increased to approximately $1,116,000 compared to $818,000 for the same period a year ago. The increase primarily reflected the costs of additional internal research projects.

There were no research and development expenses – related party, for the quarter ended June 30, 2020 compared to approximately $336,000 for the same period a year ago. The decrease was due to the completion of the Research Service Agreement with BDI in June 2019.

General and administrative expenses for the quarter ended June 30, 2020, decreased 21.2% to approximately $1,475,000 compared to $1,871,000 for the same period a year ago. The decrease principally reflected reductions in noncash share-based compensation expenses of $165,000, executive compensation costs and accrued incentives of $150,000, legal and NASDAQ uplisting expenses of $102,000, business development and investor relations costs, including travel expenses of $24,000, offset by increases in insurance premium and outside service costs of $45,000.

Interest income for the quarter ended June 30, 2020 was approximately $147,000 compared to $266,000 for the same period a year ago. The decrease was primarily due to the lower interest rate and yield on the Company’s investment grade securities, which are classified as held-to-maturity.

Net loss for the quarter ended June 30, 2020 was approximately $2,651,000, or $(0.10) per share, compared to $2,696,000, or $(0.10) per share for the same period a year ago.

FOR THE SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2020

Research and development revenue for the six months ended June 30, 2020, increased to approximately $840,000 compared to $793,000 for the six months ended June 30, 2019. The increase in revenue and cost of research and development revenue for the six months ended June 30, 2020 reflected ten on-going research collaborations compared to seven collaborations for the same period a year ago. The increase in provision for contract losses reflected the activities of one biopharmaceutical collaboration research project.

Research and development expenses for the six months ended June 30, 2020 increased to approximately $1,872,000 compared to $1,511,000 for the same period a year ago. The increase primarily reflected the costs of additional internal research projects.

There were no research and development expenses – related party, for the six months ended June 30, 2020 compared to approximately $726,000 for the same period a year ago. The decrease was due to the completion of the Research Service Agreement with BDI in June 2019.

General and administrative expenses for the six months ended June 30, 2020, decreased 5.2% to approximately $3,129,000 compared to $3,299,000 for the same period a year ago. The decrease principally reflected reductions in executive compensation costs and accrued incentives of $220,000, legal and NASDAQ uplisting expenses of $125,000, noncash share-based compensation expenses of $68,000, offset by increases in insurance premium of $147,000, business development and investor relations costs of $47,000 and other increases of $49,000

Interest income for the six months ended June 30, 2020 was approximately $315,000 compared to $533,000 for the same period a year ago. The decrease was primarily due to the lower interest rate and yield on the Company’s investment grade securities, which are classified as held-to-maturity.

Net loss for the six months ended June 30, 2020 was approximately $4,866,000, or $(0.18) per share, compared to $4,871,000, or $(0.18) per share for the same period a year ago.

CONFERENCE CALL INFORMATION

Dyadic management will host a conference call today, Thursday, August 13, 2020, at 5:00 PM ET to discuss the financial results for the quarter ended June 30, 2020. In order to participate in the conference call, please dial (877) 407-8033 for U.S./Canada callers and +(201) 689-8033 for International callers or use webcast link: https://www.webcaster4.com/Webcast/Page/2031/36260

An archive of the webcast will be available approximately three hours after completion of the live event and will be accessible on the “Investors” section of the Company’s website at http://www.dyadic.com . To access the replay of the webcast, please follow the Webcast link above. A dial-in replay of the call will also be available to those interested. To access the replay, please dial 1 (877) 481-4010 (U.S. or Canada) or 1 (919) 882-2331 (International) and enter replay pass code: 36260.

About Dyadic International, Inc.

Dyadic International, Inc. is a global biotechnology company which is developing what it believes will be a potentially significant biopharmaceutical gene expression platform based on the fungus Thermothelomyces heterothallica (formerly Myceliophthora thermophila), named C1. The C1 microorganism, which enables the development and large scale manufacture of low cost proteins, has the potential to be further developed into a safe and efficient expression system that may help speed up the development, lower production costs and improve the performance of biologic vaccines and drugs at flexible commercial scales. Dyadic is using the C1 technology and other technologies to conduct research, development and commercial activities for the development and manufacturing of human and animal vaccines and drugs, such as virus like particles (VLPs) and antigens, monoclonal antibodies, Fab antibody fragments, Fc-Fusion proteins, biosimilars and/or biobetters, and other therapeutic proteins. Certain other research activities are ongoing which include the exploration of using C1 to develop and produce certain metabolites and other biologic products. Dyadic pursues research and development collaborations, licensing arrangements and other commercial opportunities with its partners and collaborators to leverage the value and benefits of these technologies in development and manufacture of biopharmaceuticals. In particular, as the aging population grows in developed and undeveloped countries, Dyadic believes the C1 technology may help bring biologic vaccines, drugs and other biologic products to market faster, in greater volumes, at lower cost, and with new properties to drug developers and manufacturers, and improve access and cost to patients and the healthcare system, but most importantly save lives.

Please visit Dyadic’s website at http://www.dyadic.com for additional information, including details regarding Dyadic’s plans for its biopharmaceutical business.

Safe Harbor Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, including those regarding Dyadic International’s expectations, intentions, strategies and beliefs pertaining to future events or future financial performance. Actual events or results may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements as a result of various important factors, including those described in the Company’s most recent filings with the SEC. Dyadic assumes no obligation to update publicly any such forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. For a more complete description of the risks that could cause our actual results to differ from our current expectations, please see the section entitled “Risk Factors” in Dyadic’s annual reports on Form 10-K and quarterly reports on Form 10-Q filed with the SEC, as such factors may be updated from time to time in Dyadic’s periodic filings with the SEC, which are accessible on the SEC’s website and at http://www.dyadic.com/.

Contact:
Dyadic International, Inc.
Ping W. Rawson
Chief Financial Officer
Phone: (561) 743-8333
Email: mailto:[email protected]

Cumulus Media Inc. (CMLS) – Planned Asset Sales Enhance Investment Appeal

Wednesday, August 12, 2020

Cumulus Media Inc. (CMLS)

Planned Asset Sales Enhance Investment Appeal

CUMULUS MEDIA, Inc. (NASDAQ: CMLS) is a leading audio-first media and entertainment company delivering premium content to over a quarter billion people every month — wherever and whenever they want it. CUMULUS MEDIA engages listeners with high-quality local programming through 428 owned-and-operated stations across 87 markets; delivers nationally-syndicated sports, news, talk, and entertainment programming from iconic brands including the NFL, the NCAA, the Masters, the Olympics, the GRAMMYS, the American Country Music Awards, and many other world-class partners across nearly 8,000 affiliated stations through Westwood One, the largest audio network in America; and inspires listeners through its rapidly growing network of original podcasts that are smart, entertaining and thought-provoking. CUMULUS MEDIA provides advertisers with local impact and national reach through on-air, digital, mobile, and voice-activated media solutions, as well as access to integrated digital marketing services, powerful influencers, and live event experiences. CUMULUS MEDIA is the only audio media company to provide marketers with local and national advertising performance guarantees.

Michael Kupinski, Director of Research, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

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

    Overachieves cash flow on softer revenue. Q2 total company revenues of $146.0 million, down 46.6% yoy, was lighter than our $151.5 million estimate. Adjusted EBITDA loss of $6.3 million was better than our loss estimate of $12.6 million. The better than expected loss estimate reflected the company’s earlier $85 million annualized cost reductions.

    Not flowing through the upside to full year. Radio advertising trends are improving, but not at the pace we originally expected. We are tweaking lower our Q3 revenue and cash flow estimate in an abundance of caution. We are tweaking lower our Q3 revenue from $196.0 million to $193.0 million and our Q3 cash flow estimate from …



    Click to get the full report.

This 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. 

Ely Gold Royalties (ELYGF)(ELY:CA) – Expands Nevada Portfolio with Acquisition of Three Royalties

Wednesday, August 12, 2020

Ely Gold Royalties (ELYGF)(ELY:CA)

Expands Nevada Portfolio with Acquisition of Three Royalties

As of April 24, 2020, Noble Capital Markets research on Ely Gold Royalties is published under ticker symbols (ELYGF and ELY:CA). The price target is in USD and based on ticker symbol ELYGF. Research reports dated prior to April 24, 2020 may not follow these guidelines and could account for a variance in the price target. Ely Gold Royalties Inc is an emerging royalty company with producing and development assets focused in Nevada and the Western US. It offers shareholders a low-risk leverage to the current price of gold and low-cost access to long-term gold royalties.

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.

    Ely adds three Nevada royalties. Ely Gold Royalties executed a purchase agreement for a package of three net smelter returns (NSR) royalties on properties in Nevada from a third party for US$350 thousand. The royalties include a 0.33% NSR on the Sleeper Gold Mine Project owned by Paramount Gold Nevada Corp., a 1.0% NSR on 38 mining claims associated with Coeur Mining’s Lincoln Hill and Gold Ridge properties and a 1.0% NSR on 40 acres of ground associated with Waterton Global’s Mt. Hamilton project. The transaction is expected to close on or around September 15, 2020.

    Outlook for precious metals prices remains favorable. On August 11, gold and silver futures fell 5.5% and 14.6%, respectively, following gains of 12.8% and 57.0% since the end of the second quarter through August 10. A stronger U.S. dollar, higher Treasury yields and factors, such as potential remedies associated with COVID-19, favoring risk assets were all cited as causes for …



    Click to get the full report.

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.
 

Kelly Services Inc. (KELYA) – What Did The JOLTS Report Say?

Wednesday, August 12, 2020

Kelly Services Inc. (KELYA)

What Did The JOLTS Report Say?

Kelly Services Inc is a provider of workforce solutions and consulting and staffing services. The company’s operations are divided into three business segments namely Americas Staffing, Global Talent Solutions (“GTS”) and International Staffing. It provides staffing solutions through its branch networks in Americas and International operations and also provides a suite of innovative talent fulfilment and outcome-based solutions through GTS segment. Americas Staffing generates maximum revenue from its operations.

Joe Gomes, Senior Research Analyst, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

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

    JOLTS Report. On Monday, the Bureau of Labor Statistics released the monthly Job Openings and Labor Turnover Survey (JOLTS) report. The JOLTS program produces data on job openings, hires, and separations. The report can be used to confirm other data relative to jobs and employment, with a higher JOLTS number suggesting increasing demand for workers and a falling number pointing to less demand.

    New Hires and Job Openings.  New hires in June were 6.7 million down 0.5 million from May’s record, but June’s number is still the second highest in the series record. It is estimated the U.S. labor market has recovered some 42% of the jobs lost during the COVID pandemic. At the end of June, job openings were 5.9 million, up 518,000 over the end of May, indicating a …



    Click to get the full report

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.
 

Pyxis Tankers Inc. (PXS) – In Line Quarter. Waiting for Seasonal Upswing

Wednesday, August 12, 2020

Pyxis Tankers Inc. (PXS)

In Line Quarter. Waiting for Seasonal Upswing

Pyxis Tankers Inc is a United States-based international maritime transportation company which focuses on the product tanker sector. It owns a fleet which comprises of double hull product tankers employed under a mix of short- and medium-term time charters and spot charters. The fleet owned by the company includes Pyxis Epsilon, Pyxis Theta, Pyxis Malou, Pyxis Delta, Northsea Alpha, and Northsea Beta. Each of the vessels in the fleet is capable of transporting refined petroleum products, such as naphtha, gasoline, jet fuel, kerosene, diesel, fuel oil, and other liquid bulk items, such as vegetable oils and organic chemicals.

Poe Fratt, Senior Research Analyst, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

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

    Adjusted 2Q2020 EBITDA of $1.2 million slightly ahead of expectations due to lower opex, G&A expenses and other costs. TCE revenue was $4.54 million was slightly below our estimate, but the shortfall was more than offset by positive variances in opex of $0.09 million, G&A expense of $0.08 million, and other expenses of $0.7 million, or a total of $0.24 million.

    Moving 2020 EBITDA estimate to $5.9 million (from $6.2 million) based on TCE rates of $12,406/day (down from $13,064/day) to reflect 2Q2020 operating results, softer rates and the timing of dry dockings on the two small tankers. As of August 6th, 62% of available 3Q2020 days booked at an average MR2 gross TCE rate of …



    Click to get the full report

This 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.
 

Vectrus (VEC) – Working Through COVID

Wednesday, August 12, 2020

Vectrus (VEC)

Working Through COVID

Vectrus Inc is a U.S.-based company that provides services to the U.S. government. It operates as one segment and offer facility and logistics services and information technology and network communications services. The information technology and network communications capabilities consist of communications systems operations and maintenance, management and service support, systems installation and activation, system-of-systems engineering and software development, and mission support for the department of defense. The facility and logistics service include airfield management, ammunition management, civil engineering, communications, emergency services, life support activities, public works, security, transportation operations and others.

Joe Gomes, Senior Research Analyst, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

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

    2Q20 Results. Vectrus posted solid top line in spite of COVID but the bottom line suffered from a number of items. Revenue of $336.1 million increased 1.3% year over year. COVID was a $22.3 million headwind. GAAP EPS was $0.09 versus $0.66. Adjusted EPS was $0.24 versus $0.74 last year. Second quarter 2020 adjusted EPS was impacted by $0.14 from COVID and $0.54 from a contract adjustment.

    Backlog and Book-to-Bill. Vectrus continued to win new contracts during the quarter, including three with the U.S. Navy valued at $554 million in aggregate. Backlog at quarter’s end increased 18% y-o-y to $3.8 billion, Trailing twelve month book-to-bill was 1.4x. The pipeline remains robust with $1.1 billion of submitted bids and …



    Click to get the full report

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.
 

Canadian Oil Production Drops To the Lowest Level Since 2016

 

The Drop In Canadian Oil Production Will Have Long-term Effects

 

The drop in oil prices in April has not been kind to Canadian producers.  That, combined with imposed production curtailments by the government of Alberta has led to a 20% decline in daily production versus the 2019 average.  This decline is twice the output decline of OPEC countries and the third largest overall decline after Russia and the United States.  The decline for the fourth-largest producer of oil amounts to 1 million barrels of oil per day or 1.3% of the world’s daily supply.

 

Source: U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA)

 

Canadian producers are especially hard hit by declines in oil prices.  Oil sand production is among the higher cost production.  Production costs have been dropping from a level of US$65 but are still believed to be in the mid-forties.  Canadian production may be the first to be shut in when oil prices drop.  What’s more, Western Canada typically receives a lower oil price than other areas due to pipeline constraints. This has been especially true in recent years because western Canadian oil prices have fallen sharper than the West Texas Intermediate oil price.  This disparity is unlikely to abate in the near future due to delays in construction of the Keystone Pipeline. It’s no wonder, then, that major producers such as ExxonMobil, Shell, ConocoPhillips and Marathon Oil Corporation have all reduced or withdrawn their investments in oil sands in recent years.

 

 

Some producers, including Canada’s largest producer Suncor, view the decline as temporary.  Suncor Chief Executive Mark Little said on a quarterly call with analysts that “By the end of the year, if we don’t have this upset with a second COVID outbreak, we expect essentially all crude in Western Canada to be back online.”  Others believe the problems faced by Western Canada producers precede COVID or OPEC production level issues.  Ricochet points out that major oil companies have more debt than revenues, estimated at $250 billion coming due in the next five years.  With electric vehicles eating into the largest component of oil demand, it is unlikely that oil producers will be bailed out by higher oil prices.

 

Source: U.S. Energy Information Administration

 

In many ways, the perils facing Canadian producers are not different than that of U.S. producers.  However, higher production costs and tighter pipeline capacity make the situation a more immediate concern. 

 

Suggested Reading:

Is M&A Picking up
in Energy Sector

Exploration and
Production Second Quarter Review and Outlook

Is $40 the Sweet Spot for Sweet Crude?

 

Each event in our popular Virtual Road Shows Series has maximum capacity of 100 investors online. To take part, listen to and perhaps get your questions answered, see which virtual investor meeting intrigues you here.

 

Sources:

https://www.eia.gov/todayinenergy/detail.php?id=44396&src=email, U.S. Energy Information Administration, July 16, 2020

https://www.yahoo.com/news/canadian-oil-companies-moving-restore-144252160.html, Rod Nickel, Reuters, July 23, 2020

https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2020-03-09/oil-rout-tests-canadian-energy-producers-cost-cutting-drive, Kevin Orland and Robert Tuttle, Bloomberg, March 9, 2020

https://ricochet.media/en/3116/oil-was-doomed-before-the-pandemic, Will Dubitsky, Ricochet, May 14, 2020

https://boereport.com/2019/05/01/costs-of-canadian-oil-sands-projects-fell-dramatically-in-recent-years-but-pipeline-constraints-and-other-factors-will-moderate-future-production-growth-ihs-markit-analysis-says/, BOE Report, May 1, 2019

Release – Comstock Mining Extinguishes Senior Secured Debenture Via Favorable Refinancing

 

Comstock Mining Extinguishes Senior Secured Debenture Via Favorable Refinancing

 

Virginia City, NV (August 12, 2020) Comstock Mining Inc. (the “Company”) (NYSE American: LODE) announced today it completely paid off, yesterday, its remaining $4 million Senior Secured Debenture from a combination of recent cash proceeds from Tonogold and new, unsecured promissory notes, with favorable terms.

 

The Company entered into three promissory notes (the “Promissory Notes”) that refinanced its existing, secured indebtedness, on more favorable terms, through a known group of existing LODE investors. The Promissory Notes are unsecured and have an aggregate principal amount of $4,475,000 (net of an original discount of $255,000), and a maturity date of September 20, 2021, with no prepayment penalties, and a portion of which that can be extended for an additional two years.  The Promissory Notes were designed to mirror the amount still receivable from Tonogold, including the maturity date of September 20, 2021, and the 12% interest rate payable monthly.

 

The Promissory Notes also permit other indebtedness but contain covenants that prohibit the Company from incurring debt that matures prior to  September 20, 2021, or that is senior in right of their payment.  The Company must also prepay the Promissory Notes, without penalty, with at least 80% of the net cash proceeds received by the Company with respect to the sale of the Company’s non-mining assets in Silver Springs, NV.

 

The Company recently received $0.9 million in two payments from Tonogold, one in late June and one in early August, that was otherwise maturing on October 15, 2020.  These payments reduced the remaining amounts due to Comstock from Tonogold to $4,475,000, and when coupled with the $4,220,000 of net proceeds from the Promissory Notes, enabled the full, early extinguishment of the Senior Secured Debenture due  later this year.

 

Mr. Corrado DeGasperis, Executive Chairman and CEO stated, “This represents a major milestone by eliminating the overhang created by the Senior Secured Debenture, releasing all of our assets from restrictive security encumbrances and covenants and positions us to fully consummate the 100% sale of Lucerne, by allowing the perfecting of the security interest on that now unsecured asset. We are also focused on closing the sale of our $10 million plus non-mining assets in Silver Springs, NV, and funding our growth with more flexibility and speed.”

 

Mr. George Melas, Concorde and Bean Trustee said,  “We are pleased to provide flexible financing to Comstock Mining Inc. that enables and facilitates the company’s meaningful, precious-metal based growth initiatives and accelerates the creation and delivery of sustained value for all of its stakeholders.”

 

The Company is also permitted to defer payment of up to 34% of the principal payment due on the maturity date for an additional two years (i.e., until September 20, 2023), solely at its option, in exchange for two year warrants to purchase the Company’s stock based on a 10% discount to a then VWAP of the Company’s common stock.

 

Mr. DeGasperis concluded, “The debt reductions, maturity extensions and releases of restrictive security and covenants, coupled with the ability to accelerate and consummate the Lucerne sale, positions us to focus on exploration, development, mercury remediation and the sale of the remaining non-mining assets, all of which unlock and/or create sustained value for our shareholders.  We are pleased to conclude these transactions and advancing growth.”

 

About Comstock Mining Inc.

Comstock Mining Inc. is a Nevada-based, gold and silver mining company with extensive, contiguous property in the Comstock District and is an emerging leader in sustainable, responsible mining that is currently commercializing environment-enhancing, precious-metal-based technologies, products and processes for precious metal recovery. The Company began acquiring properties in the Comstock District in 2003. Since then, the Company has consolidated a significant portion of the Comstock District, amassed the single largest known repository of historical and current geological data on the Comstock region, secured permits, built an infrastructure and completed its first phase of production. The Company continues evaluating and acquiring properties inside and outside the district expanding its footprint and exploring all of our existing and prospective opportunities for further exploration, development and mining. The Company’s goal is to grow per-share value by commercializing environment-enhancing, precious-metal-based products and processes that generate predictable cash flow (throughput) and increase the long-term enterprise value of our northern Nevada based platform.

 

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release and any related calls or discussions may include forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. All statements, other than statements of historical facts, are forward-looking statements. The words “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “project,” “plan,” “should,” “intend,” “may,” “will,” “would,” “potential” and similar expressions identify forward-looking statements, but are not the exclusive means of doing so. Forward-looking statements include statements about matters such as: consummation of all pending transactions; project, asset or Company valuations; future industry market conditions; future explorations, acquisitions, investments and asset sales; future performance of and closings under various agreements; future changes in our exploration activities; future estimated mineral resources; future prices and sales of, and demand for, our products; future impacts of land entitlements and uses; future permitting activities and needs therefor; future production capacity and operations; future operating and overhead costs; future capital expenditures and their impact on us; future impacts of operational and management changes (including changes in the board of directors); future changes in business strategies, planning and tactics and impacts of recent or future changes; future employment and contributions of personnel, including consultants; future land sales, investments, acquisitions, joint ventures, strategic alliances, business combinations, operational, tax, financial and restructuring initiatives; the nature and timing of and accounting for restructuring charges and derivative liabilities and the impact thereof; contingencies; future environmental compliance and changes in the regulatory environment; future offerings of equity or debt securities; the possible redemption of debentures and associated costs; future working capital, costs, revenues, business opportunities, debt levels, cash flows, margins, earnings and growth.

 

These statements are based on assumptions and assessments made by our management in light of their experience and their perception of historical and current trends, current conditions, possible future developments and other factors they believe to be appropriate. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees, representations or warranties and are subject to risks and uncertainties, many of which are unforeseeable and beyond our control and could cause actual results, developments and business decisions to differ materially from those contemplated by such forward-looking statements. Some of those risks and uncertainties include the risk factors set forth in our filings with the SEC and the following: counterparty risks; capital markets’ valuation and pricing risks; adverse effects of climate changes or natural disasters; global economic and capital market uncertainties; the speculative nature of gold or mineral exploration, including risks of diminishing quantities or grades of qualified resources; operational or technical difficulties in connection with exploration or mining activities; contests over title to properties; potential dilution to our stockholders from our stock issuances and recapitalization and balance sheet restructuring activities; potential inability to comply with applicable government regulations or law; adoption of or changes in legislation or regulations adversely affecting businesses; permitting constraints or delays; decisions regarding business opportunities that may be presented to, or pursued by, us or others; the impact of, or the non-performance by parties under agreements relating to, acquisitions, joint ventures, strategic alliances, business combinations, asset sales, leases, options and investments to which we may be party; changes in the United States or other monetary or fiscal policies or regulations; interruptions in production capabilities due to capital constraints; equipment failures; fluctuation of prices for gold or certain other commodities (such as silver, zinc, cyanide, water, diesel fuel and electricity); changes in generally accepted accounting principles; adverse effects of terrorism and geopolitical events; potential inability to implement business strategies; potential inability to grow revenues; potential inability to attract and retain key personnel; interruptions in delivery of critical supplies, equipment and raw materials due to credit or other limitations imposed by vendors or others; assertion of claims, lawsuits and proceedings; potential inability to satisfy debt and lease obligations; potential inability to maintain an effective system of internal controls over financial reporting; potential inability or failure to timely file periodic reports with the SEC; potential inability to list our securities on any securities exchange or market; inability to maintain the listing of our securities; and work stoppages or other labor difficulties. Occurrence of such events or circumstances could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows or the market price of our securities. All subsequent written and oral forward-looking statements by or attributable to us or persons acting on our behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by these factors. Except as may be required by securities or other law, we undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.

 

Neither this press release nor any related calls or discussions constitutes an offer to sell, the solicitation of an offer to buy or a recommendation with respect to any securities of the Company, the fund or any other issuer.

 

Corrado De Gasperis
Executive Chairman & CEO
Tel (775) 847-4755
[email protected]

Contact information for Comstock Mining Inc.:
1200 American Flat Rd
PO Box 1118
Virginia City, NV  89440
http://www.comstockmining.com

Zach Spencer
Director of External Relations
Tel (775) 847-5272 ext.151
[email protected]

Gevo, Inc. (GEVO) – Quarterly Loss Narrows After Cost Cuts. Capital Raise Creates Near-term Cash Cushion

Tuesday, August 11, 2020

Gevo, Inc. (GEVO)

Quarterly Loss Narrows After Cost Cuts. Capital Raise Creates Near-term Cash Cushion.

Gevo Inc is a renewable chemicals and biofuels company engaged in the development and commercialization of alternatives to petroleum-based products based on isobutanol produced from renewable feedstocks. Its operating segments are the Gevo segment and the Gevo Development/Agri-Energy segment. By its segments, it is involved in research and development activities related to the future production of isobutanol, including the development of its biocatalysts, the production and sale of biojet fuel, its Retrofit process and the next generation of chemicals and biofuels that will be based on its isobutanol technology. Gevo Development/Agri-Energy is the key revenue generating segment which involves the operation of the Luverne Facility and production of ethanol, isobutanol and related products.

Poe Fratt, Senior Research Analyst, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

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

    Adjusted 2Q2020 EBITDA of $(3.1) million narrowed versus $(6.2) million in 1Q2020 due to idling Luverne plant and cost cutting. Lower cost structure pushed cash burn down to ~$4.7 million and cash burn should move below $4 million in 3Q2020. 2020 EBITDA loss estimate is $15.2 million, up from $14.4 million.

    Two significant commercial agreements likely in near future. Discussions on added supply/licensing agreements are advanced even amidst current turmoil in the airline/refining industries. Agreements would expand supply portfolio of 17 million gallons/year already in place. Expansion plans now include building up supply portfolio to include isooctane (renewable gasoline) agreements. Interest in renewable fuel concept is …



    Click to get the full report

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.
 

Information Services (III) – Better Than Expected 2Q20 Performance

Tuesday, August 11, 2020

Information Services (III)

Better Than Expected 2Q20 Performance

ISG (Information Services Group) (Nasdaq: III) is a leading global technology research and advisory firm. A trusted business partner to more than 700 clients, including more than 70 of the top 100 enterprises in the world, ISG is committed to helping corporations, public sector organizations, and service and technology providers achieve operational excellence and faster growth. The firm specializes in digital transformation services, including automation, cloud and data analytics; sourcing advisory; managed governance and risk services; network carrier services; strategy and operations design; change management; market intelligence and technology research and analysis. Founded in 2006, and based in Stamford, Conn., ISG employs more than 1,300 digital-ready professionals operating in more than 20 countries—a global team known for its innovative thinking, market influence, deep industry and technology expertise, and world-class research and analytical capabilities based on the industry’s most comprehensive marketplace data. For more information, visit www.isg-one.com

Joe Gomes, Senior Research Analyst, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

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

    2Q20 Operating Results. Second quarter results came in better than expected, with revenue of $57.4 million and adjusted EBITDA of $7.4 million. Management had forecast revenue in the $53-$55 million range and adjusted EBITDA in the $6-$7 million range. EPS for the quarter was $0.01 and adjusted EPS was $0.06. We had forecast revenue of $53 million, adjusted EBITDA of $5.8 million, breakeven EPS, and $0.04 per share of adjusted EPS.

    What Drove the Better than Expected Results? Demand for some of the Company’s services designed to help firms reduce costs and/or transform to a more digital approach faster drove results. While we expect results to continue to be impacted by the COVID environment in the near-term, longer-term, structural changes to the way society works should …



    Click to get the full report

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.
 

Townsquare Media Inc (TSQ) – Reaffirms Its Favorable Digital Revenue Outlook

Tuesday, August 11, 2020

Townsquare Media Inc (TSQ)

Reaffirms Its Favorable Digital Revenue Outlook

Townsquare Media Inc is an entertainment and media company offering digital marketing solutions in the United States and Canada. It owns and operates radio stations, social media properties focusing the small and mid-cap companies. Services offered to the clients include live events, local advertising, digital advertising, e-commerce offerings, few others. The segments through which the company operates its businesses are classified into Local marketing solutions and Entertainment segments. Revenues are generated from commercials through broadcasts and sale of internet based advertisements.

Michael Kupinski, DOR, Senior Research Analyst, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

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

    Solid Digital performance. Both revenues and cash flow were above expectations for what was one of the its most difficult quarters in its history given the Covid pandemic. Revenues declined 34.5% to $74.05 million, which was better than our $69.95 million estimate, and better than its peers, with many reporting revenue declines of as much as 60%. Q2 operating cash flow, as measured by adjusted EBITDA, was better than expected as well, $2.08 million versus our $1.10 million estimate.

    Why we view the filing favorably.  Its subscription, digital marketing services business, Townsquare Interactive, increased revenues a strong 10.5% in Q2, demonstrating its recession resistant qualities. Both its Townsquare Interactive and its programmatic business, Ignite, are expected to …



    Click to get the full report

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.