slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com, Author at Channelchek

Global M&A Hits $2.6 Trillion in 2025, Fueled by AI and Growth Ambitions

Posted on August 4, 2025August 4, 2025 by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

Key Points:
– Global M&A value reaches $2.6 trillion YTD, the highest since the 2021 post-pandemic surge.
– AI, big tech, and private equity lead activity despite fewer total deals and tariff tensions.
– U.S. megadeals and renewed corporate confidence drive optimism for more deals ahead.

Global mergers and acquisitions (M&A) activity has surged to $2.6 trillion year-to-date, making 2025 the most active year since the 2021 boom, as companies aggressively pursue growth and innovation—particularly in artificial intelligence. The total value of deals has risen 28% from the same period last year, even though the actual number of transactions is down 16%, according to data from Dealogic.

Several U.S. megadeals have fueled the resurgence, including Union Pacific’s proposed $85 billion acquisition of Norfolk Southern and OpenAI’s massive $40 billion funding round led by Japan’s SoftBank. These transactions signal a bold appetite for scale and future-proofing in the face of evolving technologies and regulatory dynamics.

What’s driving this momentum? Experts say companies are seeking to stay ahead in a transformative AI race, while adapting to a more settled political and regulatory environment following the initial uncertainties surrounding the Trump administration’s trade tariffs and antitrust posture.

Private equity has also re-entered the scene with major moves. Examples include Sycamore Partners’ $10 billion buyout of Walgreens Boots Alliance and Advent’s revised $6.4 billion bid for UK firm Spectris. These moves show that buyout firms are growing confident in valuations and exit opportunities once again.

While healthcare led the charge in previous years, technology and electronics are now driving deal volume, especially in the U.S. and UK. Notable moves include Samsung’s $1.7 billion acquisition of FlaktGroup, which specializes in data center cooling—an essential infrastructure for AI systems.

The largest deal in EMEA this year came from Palo Alto Networks, which acquired Israeli cybersecurity company CyberArk for $25 billion. Rising AI-driven threats have made cybersecurity a top priority, prompting record valuations in the space.

Looking ahead, dealmakers at JPMorgan and other institutions remain bullish. The combination of AI demand, digital infrastructure needs, and steady leadership in corporate boardrooms suggests that the second half of 2025 could see even more high-profile M&A activity.

For further insights on cross-border opportunities, especially for European healthcare and life sciences firms, explore our on-demand webinar: Beyond Borders: Unlocking U.S Growth for European Health Care & Life Sciences.

Ocugen (OCGN) – 2Q25 Reported With All Three Trials On Schedule

Posted on August 4, 2025August 4, 2025 by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

Monday, August 04, 2025

Ocugen, Inc. is a biotechnology company focused on developing and commercializing novel gene therapies, biologicals, and vaccines. The lead product in its gene therapy program, OCU400, is in Phase 1/2 clinical trials for retinitis pigmentosa.

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

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

Product Updates All Three Trials Are On Schedule. Ocugen reported a 2Q25 loss of $14.7 million or $(0.05) per share. During the quarter, the clinical trials made progress to keep the products on schedule for 3 BLA filings beginning in 2026. The quarter also included a licensing agreement covering OCU400 in South Korea and the reverse merger to form OthroCellix, a new company focused on regenerative medicine.

OrthoCellix Has Been Formed To Develop NeoCart. Ocugen and Carisma Therapeutics, Inc. announced a reverse merger that will create a new company developing regenerative cellular therapies. As discussed in our Research Note on June 24, NeoCart cellular therapy is outside its main focus. The transaction is expected to close in September-October with the new company valued at $150 million. The Phase 3 pivotal trial is expected to begin in FY2025.

Get the Full Report

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

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

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

V2X (VVX) – A $4.3 Billion Contract Award

Posted on August 4, 2025August 4, 2025 by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

Monday, August 04, 2025

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

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

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

New Award. V2X, Inc. has been awarded a $4.3 billion indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract by the U.S. Air Force for Contractor Operated and Maintained Supply services in support of the T-6 aircraft. This is one of the largest contracts in V2X history and highlights the Company’s operating capabilities, in our view.

Details. This contract provides support for safe flyable aircraft to meet users’ daily flight schedule and depot requirements consistent with Department of Defense and commercial sector best practices in procuring, producing, and delivering products and services to customers. Work will be performed at a variety of military bases across the continental U.S. and is expected to be completed by July 31, 2034. This contract was a competitive source selection with three offers received.

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).

Titan International (TWI) – 2Q Results; End Markets Remain Challenging

Posted on August 4, 2025August 4, 2025 by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

Monday, August 04, 2025

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

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

2Q Overview. Titan reported 2Q25 results in-line with management expectations, even in an environment in which the Company’s end markets continue to be impacted by higher interest rates and tariff uncertainty. Significantly, the Company was able to maintain gross and EBITDA margins, which continue to be meaningfully above where they were in the last cyclical trough.

Results. Revenue of $460.8 million was down from $532.2 million a year ago. Lower end market demand in the Ag and Construction markets, along with a temporary slowdown at Titan Specialty, impacted the top line. We had estimated revenue of $480 million. Partly driven by a 431% income tax rate, Titan reported a net loss of $4.5 million, or a loss of $0.07/sh, compared to net income of $2.1 million, or EPS of $0.03/sh, last year. Adjusted loss was $0.02/sh compared to EPS of $0.10 in 2Q24.

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).

FAT Brands (FAT) – Refinancing Framework

Posted on August 4, 2025August 4, 2025 by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

Monday, August 04, 2025

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

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

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

Refi Discussions. On or about July 9, 2025, FAT Brands entered into a confidentiality agreement with certain Holders of notes issued by the Company’s special purpose, whole business securitization financing subsidiaries. The Confidentiality Agreement facilitated the Company’s ability to engage in discussions with the Holders regarding one or more potential transactions involving a refinancing, restructuring or similar transaction with the Holders. As part of the confidentiality agreement, FAT Brands agreed to publicly disclose certain information, which Thursday’s 8-K accomplished.

First Look. The potential transaction described in the “Cleansing Material” was the Company’s initial proposal to the Holders. An agreement has not yet been reached with the Holders, and we expect negotiations to continue. The disclosed material provides summary term sheets for both FAT Brands’ and Twin Hospitality’s whole business securitizations.

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).

ACCO Brands (ACCO) – Post Call Commentary and Updated Models

Posted on August 4, 2025August 4, 2025 by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

Monday, August 04, 2025

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

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

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

Mixed Environment. The operating environment remains mixed for ACCO. Americas sales continue to be impacted by tariffs and reduced spending for consumer and business products. The International segment is experiencing less disruption. If we can see some improvement in the environment, we are confident in ACCO’s ability to capture market share.

PowerA. Gaming was a positive contributor in the second quarter following the release of the Nintendo Switch 2, which became the fastest selling gaming console in history in the U.S. and Japan. As a leading third party accessory product assortment supporting the release of Nintendo’s Switch 2, we expect additional improvement in the gaming business in 2H25.

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).

HNI Corporation to Acquire Steelcase in $2.2 Billion Deal, Creating Industry Powerhouse

Posted on August 4, 2025August 4, 2025 by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

HNI Corporation has announced a definitive agreement to acquire Steelcase Inc. in a cash-and-stock deal valued at approximately $2.2 billion. The strategic acquisition unites two iconic names in workplace furniture and design, combining their strengths in innovation, manufacturing, and dealer networks to form a dominant force in the commercial interiors market.

Under the terms of the deal, Steelcase shareholders will receive $7.20 in cash and 0.2192 shares of HNI common stock for each Steelcase share they own. Based on HNI’s stock price as of August 1, 2025, the total purchase price comes to about $18.30 per share. Once finalized, HNI shareholders will own roughly 64% of the combined entity, while Steelcase shareholders will hold the remaining 36%.

HNI Chairman and CEO Jeffrey Lorenger emphasized the complementary nature of the merger, stating, “This acquisition brings together two respected companies with strong brands and decades of leadership in the industry.” Lorenger will continue to lead the combined company, which will retain HNI’s headquarters in Muscatine, Iowa, and keep Steelcase’s base in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

The new entity will have a pro forma annual revenue of $5.8 billion and adjusted EBITDA of approximately $745 million, with anticipated annual cost synergies of $120 million. Financially, the acquisition positions the company for long-term earnings growth, with projections for accretive non-GAAP EPS by 2027 and a return to pre-acquisition leverage within 18 to 24 months.

The companies’ combined strengths span across corporate, healthcare, education, hospitality, and small-to-midsize business markets. With their complementary product portfolios and broad dealer networks, the merger enhances their ability to serve a wider range of customers with innovative solutions for modern workspaces. Both firms bring decades of product design expertise and a shared commitment to purpose-driven leadership and environmental stewardship.

Steelcase CEO Sara Armbruster called the merger a “bold step” that ushers in a new era for the company, employees, and customers. “Together, we will redefine what’s possible in the world of work, workers, and workplaces,” she said.

The transaction has received strong early support from key stakeholders. Some Steelcase shareholders have already agreed to vote in favor of the deal, and committed financing is in place from JPMorgan Chase and Wells Fargo. The merger is expected to close by the end of 2025, pending shareholder and regulatory approvals.

Advisors for the deal include J.P. Morgan Securities for HNI, and Goldman Sachs and BofA Securities for Steelcase. Legal counsel is being provided by Davis Polk & Wardwell for HNI and Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom for Steelcase.

The deal signals a major consolidation in the commercial furniture sector and positions the combined company to lead the evolution of the workplace at a time when hybrid work, digital transformation, and sustainable design continue to reshape business environments.

Gray Media Buys Block Stations for $80M as FCC Deregulation Drives Industry Deals

Posted on August 4, 2025August 4, 2025 by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

In a strategic move to expand its market footprint and strengthen its position in the Midwest, Gray Media has announced an agreement to acquire Block Communications’ television stations for $80 million. The deal reflects an ongoing trend of consolidation in the U.S. broadcasting industry, as media companies position themselves for potential regulatory changes at the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).

The acquisition will significantly bolster Gray’s influence in key Midwestern markets. The transaction includes WDRB (Fox) and WBKI (CW) in Louisville, Kentucky; WAND (NBC) in the Springfield-Champaign-Decatur, Illinois market; and WLIO (NBC) in Lima, Ohio, along with WLIO’s associated low-power stations. Importantly, Gray already owns WAVE-TV, the NBC affiliate in Louisville, creating a Big Four duopoly in that market—a combination that currently requires FCC approval or waivers due to existing ownership regulations.

According to Gray, these stations are not only geographically strategic but also top-performing in local news. Both WAND and WLIO ranked highest in all-day ratings among TV households in their respective markets in 2024, based on data from Comscore. This performance adds considerable value to Gray’s portfolio, allowing the company to scale up operations, share resources across markets, and boost its overall audience reach and advertising appeal.

The acquisition is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2025, pending FCC regulatory approval and the necessary waivers. Gray expressed confidence that the deal aligns with its broader mission of supporting strong local journalism while increasing operational efficiency through smart expansion.

The timing of this acquisition is noteworthy. It comes as the broadcast television industry continues lobbying efforts for the FCC to loosen or eliminate local ownership restrictions, which currently limit the number of stations a company can own in the same market. These rules, originally designed to maintain media diversity, are increasingly viewed as outdated in today’s competitive media landscape dominated by digital and streaming platforms.

Recent moves by Gray and others—such as Scripps, Sinclair, and Allen Media—highlight growing momentum in the industry toward consolidation. Gray and Scripps recently announced a planned station swap that would also require regulatory flexibility, further signaling the industry’s expectation that change is coming to the FCC’s rulebook.

By acquiring these high-performing stations from Block Communications, Gray is not only deepening its presence in the Midwest but also strategically preparing for a post-deregulation environment. This approach enables the company to maintain a competitive edge in the fragmented and rapidly evolving media space.

Ultimately, this $80 million acquisition underscores a broader shift in broadcast strategy: scale, synergy, and local dominance are becoming more important than ever. If approved, the deal will reinforce Gray’s commitment to quality local journalism while cementing its status as one of the most prominent broadcast groups in the U.S.

Take a moment to take a look at other emerging growth media companies by taking a look at Noble Capital Markets’ Research Analyst Michael Kupinski’s coverage list.

U.S. Economy Adds Fewer Jobs Than Expected

Posted on August 1, 2025August 1, 2025 by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

The U.S. labor market showed troubling signs of weakness in July, with only 73,000 jobs added—well below expectations and compounded by sharp downward revisions to prior months. May and June figures were slashed by a combined 258,000 jobs, revealing that the job market’s slowdown is more severe than initially reported.

Unemployment edged up to 4.2%, while the broader underemployment rate hit 7.9%, its highest level since March. Particularly alarming was a decline of 260,000 workers in the household survey, alongside a dip in labor force participation to 62.2%.

The July job gains were narrowly concentrated. Health care and social assistance accounted for 94% of the growth, adding 55,000 and 18,000 jobs respectively. Other sectors like retail and finance contributed modestly, while federal government jobs declined by 12,000—partly due to ongoing cuts under Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency. Business and professional services also saw a 14,000 job loss.

Wages grew at a moderate pace, up 0.3% for the month and 3.9% over the year, matching expectations. But the rise in long-term unemployment—now averaging 24.1 weeks—signals growing distress for job seekers.

Markets reacted swiftly: stock futures dropped and Treasury yields tumbled as investors priced in a higher chance of rate cuts. The probability of a Federal Reserve rate cut at the September meeting jumped to over 75%, from just 40% the day before.

President Donald Trump, already frustrated with Fed Chair Jerome Powell, doubled down on his criticism. In an inflammatory Truth Social post, he called Powell a “stubborn MORON” and demanded immediate and aggressive rate cuts, even suggesting the Federal Open Market Committee override Powell’s leadership.

Despite Trump’s pressure, the Fed opted to hold rates steady in July. The latest jobs report may force reconsideration. Economists warn that companies are becoming more hesitant to hire due to higher costs, weak consumer demand, and lingering uncertainty from trade policy and tariffs.

While GDP growth posted a strong 3% in Q2, that number may be misleading. Analysts note that the figure was inflated by businesses stockpiling imports before Trump’s latest tariffs took effect in April, with underlying demand remaining weak.

As the labor market cools and political pressure mounts, the September Fed meeting could prove pivotal—not just for monetary policy, but for the broader economic trajectory heading into 2026.

Codere Online (CDRO) – Strong Underlying Trends Masked By Currency Fluctuations

Posted on August 1, 2025August 1, 2025 by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

Friday, August 01, 2025

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

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

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

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

Solid Q2 results. The company reported second quarter revenue of €54.8 million, up 0.7% over the prior year period and largely in line with our estimate of €55.5 million. Adj. EBITDA in the quarter was €2.3 million, up 77% over the prior year period and better than our estimate of €0.1 million. Importantly, the top line results do not fully capture the company’s strong performance in Q2, given the devaluation of the Mexican Peso. On a constant currency basis, revenue was up 12%.

Mexico continues to grow nicely. The company’s operations in Mexico had a strong quarter that was muted by a 19% devaluation of the Peso compared to the prior year period. Notably, the company grew active customers in Mexico by a strong 36% over the prior year period, and revenue was up 23% on a constant currency basis. In our view, the company had a solid quarter in Mexico and top line results should improve as it comps year earlier Peso valuations.

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).

Perfect (PERF) – Delivers Solid Q2 Top-Line Growth

Posted on August 1, 2025August 1, 2025 by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

Friday, August 01, 2025

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

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

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

Q2 largely in line. The company reported a Q2 revenue of $16.4 million (up an impressive 17.6% year-over-year) and an adj. EBITDA of a loss of $0.5 million. These results were largely in line with our estimates of $16.5 million in revenue and adj. EBITDA of $0.4 million.

Customer growth. The company continues to expand its user base across both B2C and B2B channels. Paying subscribers to its YouCam mobile beauty app rose 4.4% year over year to 960,000, while its B2B footprint grew to 818 brand clients and over 914,000 SKUs, up from 686 clients and 774,000 SKUs a year earlier. The number of Key B2B Customers (those generating at least $50,000 annually), however, declined to 139 from 151, with the drop evenly split between lower spending and customer churn tied to macro pressures.

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).

MariMed Inc (MRMD) – Expansion into Pennsylvania

Posted on August 1, 2025August 1, 2025 by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

Friday, August 01, 2025

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

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

Pennsylvania Entrance. MariMed announced a strategic agreement with TILT Holdings that will expand the distribution of the Company’s award winning portfolio of medical marijuana products to Pennsylvania. We view this as a significant expansion of MariMed’s product line into one of the largest cannabis markets.

Pennsylvania Market. The Pennsylvania cannabis market is estimated at $1.7 billion of annual revenue, making Pennsylvania the sixth largest legal cannabis market in the U.S. Significantly, the state remains a medical state only. When, and if, adult recreational use is approved, the overall cannabis market is projected to at least double. There are currently in excess of 180 medical dispensaries in the state, providing a large potential base to distribute MariMed products into.

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).

ACCO Brands (ACCO) – First Look into 2Q25 Results

Posted on August 1, 2025August 1, 2025 by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

Friday, August 01, 2025

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

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

2Q25 Results. ACCO reported 2Q net sales and adjusted EPS in-line with management’s outlook. Revenue of $394.8 million was down 9.9% y-o-y. Comp sales were off 10.5% while favorable forex increased revenue by 0.6%. We had forecasted revenue of $390 million. Gross margin of 32.9% was below our 34.6% estimate. Net income totaled $29.2 million, or $0.31/sh, with adjusted EPS of $0.28 compared to $0.37 in 2Q24. We were at $0.21 and $0.32, respectively.

Drivers. Sales were immediately impacted by tariffs in April, although trends improved throughout the quarter. Net sales were also negatively impacted by softer global demand for consumer and business products, partially offset by growth in gaming accessories. ACCO continued to make progress on its cost cutting initiative, realizing more than $40 million in cumulative cost savings since inception.

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).