slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com, Author at Channelchek

Airline Stocks Soar After Delta’s Strong Q2 Sparks Optimism Across the Industry

Posted on July 11, 2025July 11, 2025 by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

U.S. airline stocks took flight on Thursday after Delta Air Lines (NYSE: DAL) posted quarterly earnings that beat expectations, signaling a potential rebound for a sector that’s struggled amid tariff-related uncertainty and shifting consumer behavior.

Delta’s upbeat results ignited a broad rally, with shares of American Airlines (AAL) and United Airlines (UAL) surging more than 11%, and Southwest Airlines (LUV) and Alaska Air (ALK) climbing over 5% and 8%, respectively. The rally comes after months of cautious sentiment in the travel sector, with many carriers pulling back 2025 forecasts in response to global economic uncertainty and weaker forward bookings.

Delta’s Q2 results provided a much-needed dose of optimism. The company reported adjusted revenue of $15.5 billion and earnings per share (EPS) of $2.10—narrowly beating Wall Street expectations. Operating income hit $2 billion, with a 13.2% margin, slightly below last year’s 14.7% but still robust in a challenging environment.

Crucially, Delta said booking activity had stabilized, offering reassurance that passenger demand is holding steady despite consumer jitters related to trade policy. Premium ticket revenue rose 5% year over year, and loyalty program revenue climbed 8%—a strong sign that high-value travelers remain engaged.

Delta’s CEO Ed Bastian struck an optimistic tone, stating, “As we look to the second half of our centennial year, we remain focused on executing our strategic priorities and managing the levers within our control to deliver strong earnings and cash flow.”

The momentum quickly spread across the industry. Investors appeared encouraged that Delta’s success could be a bellwether for other major carriers, all of which are slated to report earnings in the next two weeks. With oil prices down significantly—a critical cost input for airlines—there is growing belief that airlines could outperform expectations in the second half of the year.

Delta reported an 11% year-over-year drop in fuel expenses, driven by a 14% reduction in its per-gallon price. That trend is expected to benefit peers like United, American, and Southwest as they release their financials.

Deutsche Bank analysts noted that United and American are both poised to beat consensus earnings, with regional and niche carriers like Sun Country (SNCY) and SkyWest (SKYW) also showing potential for outperformance.

After a rough start to the year marked by economic headwinds, regulatory uncertainty, and supply chain pressures, Thursday’s surge in airline stocks may signal the start of a recovery phase. While risks remain—including volatile energy prices, evolving travel patterns, and the impact of trade policies—Delta’s performance shows that airlines with diversified revenue streams and efficient operations can still thrive.

Investors will be watching closely as earnings from other carriers roll in. If they echo Delta’s results and reintroduce full-year guidance, it could further boost confidence in the sector—and signal clear skies ahead for airline investors

Bitcoin Breaks New High: Is This the Start of a Bigger Run?

Posted on July 10, 2025July 10, 2025 by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

Bitcoin has once again captured the spotlight after smashing through the $112,000 mark this week—its first all-time high since May 2025. This milestone solidifies the cryptocurrency’s remarkable comeback and affirms its growing relevance in mainstream finance. As of Thursday morning, BTCUSD is trading slightly below its record, consolidating gains while traders and investors alike look ahead to what’s next.

The digital asset’s latest rally is driven by a combination of favorable technicals, strengthening institutional demand, and a more constructive policy environment in the U.S. That’s an increasingly powerful trifecta in a year where markets have otherwise been defined by policy uncertainty and choppy economic data.

Technically, Bitcoin has broken above the top of a descending channel it’s been trading in since late May. This kind of breakout is often viewed as a bullish continuation signal, suggesting the uptrend that started earlier in the year may still have room to run.

Momentum indicators such as the Relative Strength Index (RSI) remain strong but not yet overbought, implying the rally could continue without immediate risk of a pullback. A widely used forecasting technique known as the measuring principle places Bitcoin’s next major upside target near $146,400, suggesting a potential 30% gain from current levels.

Fundamentally, Bitcoin’s breakout is underpinned by a steady stream of positive developments. Notably, more corporations have begun adding Bitcoin to their balance sheets—signaling long-term belief in its value as a hedge or store of wealth. Meanwhile, lawmakers in Washington are making progress on bipartisan crypto legislation aimed at providing regulatory clarity, particularly around digital asset custody and taxation.

Additionally, the rise of spot Bitcoin ETFs continues to attract institutional money that might otherwise avoid crypto exchanges. While trading volumes on platforms like Coinbase remain muted, demand through custodial services and ETFs is on the rise—a sign that “quiet accumulation” is likely underway.

Bitcoin is up nearly 19% year-to-date, a performance that puts it in line with top-performing tech stocks like Microsoft and Nvidia. For many investors, this reinforces the asset’s appeal as a digital growth play with asymmetric upside potential.

While the medium- and long-term outlook remains bullish, investors should keep an eye on near-term support. The $107,000 level, just under the breakout trendline and 50-day moving average, could serve as the first key floor during any pullbacks.

A break below that might open the door for a retest of the psychological $100,000 level, which coincides with a dense area of price action from late 2024 and early 2025.

Bitcoin’s new all-time high marks more than just a number—it reflects growing maturity in the asset class. Whether you’re a long-term believer or a tactical trader, the setup ahead presents both opportunity and risk. But for now, Bitcoin’s breakout confirms what many in the crypto space have long expected: the next chapter of mainstream adoption is already underway.

Eledon Pharmaceuticals (ELDN) – Meeting Highlights Tegoprubart Data Milestones and New Indications

Posted on July 10, 2025July 10, 2025 by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

Thursday, July 10, 2025

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.

R&D Day Highlighted Science, Current Trials, Future Indications. We attended the Eledon R&D Day on July 9 to hear and evaluate the progress in tegoprubart development. The presentations focused on the current clinical indications in renal transplantation, islet cell transplantation, xenotransplants, and plans for liver and other solid organ transplants. Conference presentation dates for upcoming data announcements were also announced.

Phase 1b Data Update Is Planned For August. The Phase 1b open-label trial has been expanded to enroll up to 36 patients, an increase from the original 9 patients. Data is scheduled for presentation at the World Transplant Congress on August 9, 2025. Previous data presentations have included 13 patients. We expect to see follow-up data from more patients treated longer, with data from additional patients beyond the initial 12-month trial duration.

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

AZZ (AZZ) – Strong Start to Fiscal Year 2026

Posted on July 10, 2025July 10, 2025 by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

Thursday, July 10, 2025

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

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

FY 2026 first quarter financial results. AZZ reported adjusted net income of $53.8 million or $1.78 per share compared to $44.0 million or $1.46 per share during the prior year period. We had forecast adjusted net income of $50.1 million or $1.66 per share. Compared to the first quarter of FY 2025, sales increased 2.1% to $422.0 million. Adjusted EBITDA increased 13.1% to $106.4 million, representing 25.2% of sales compared to 22.8% of sales during the prior year period. We had projected adjusted EBITDA of $99.5 million.

Meaningful debt reduction. Cash from operations during the fiscal first quarter amounted to $314.8 million, including proceeds of $273.2 million received from AVAIL’s sale of the Electrical Products Group. Following debt reduction of $285.4 million, AZZ ended the quarter with a net leverage ratio of 1.7x TTM adjusted EBITDA. As of May 31, long-term debt, gross was $614.9 million compared to $900.3 million on February 28. Net of unamortized debt issuance costs, long-term debt was $569.8 million on May 31 compared to $852.4 million on February 28.

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How Tariffs and Policy Shocks Impact Middle Market Stocks Differently

Posted on July 10, 2025July 10, 2025 by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

Middle market companies often sit in a unique sweet spot: large enough to scale and access capital markets, yet small enough to maintain agility and entrepreneurial drive. For investors looking beyond the mega-cap names, these companies can offer strong growth potential and underappreciated value. However, one area where their size shows is in their vulnerability to policy shocks—particularly tariffs.

With the recent news of proposed pharmaceutical import tariffs as high as 200%, there is renewed focus on how U.S. trade and economic policy can affect publicly traded middle market firms. While much of the attention gravitates toward household names in the S&P 500, it is often middle market companies that feel the effects of these shocks most acutely—both in risk and in opportunity.

Why Middle Market Companies Are More Sensitive to Policy Changes

Unlike large-cap multinational corporations, which tend to have well-diversified supply chains and extensive legal and lobbying infrastructure, many mid-sized public companies operate with leaner operations and more concentrated supplier networks. A sudden 25% or 200% tariff on an input or finished product can dramatically alter their cost structure or compress margins.

For example, a middle market pharmaceutical manufacturer importing active ingredients from Asia might not have the domestic sourcing flexibility or pricing power of a top-tier player. Similarly, industrial firms relying on imported steel or semiconductors could find themselves needing to adjust production timelines or renegotiate customer contracts quickly.

Navigating Through the Volatility

Yet these challenges often breed innovation. One strength of middle market firms is their ability to pivot faster than larger peers. When tariffs shift the economics of a product line, smaller public companies often respond with strategic sourcing, nearshoring, or product reengineering at speeds larger bureaucracies struggle to match.

Investors should pay close attention to management’s ability to communicate and execute these adjustments. Companies that respond proactively to tariffs may emerge stronger, with improved operational resilience and competitive differentiation.

A Hidden Advantage: Domestic Focus

Interestingly, many middle market stocks have a geographic advantage when it comes to tariffs. Firms that focus primarily on domestic customers or rely on U.S.-based production may see relatively limited impact from import duties. In fact, some could benefit as competitors with overseas exposure face higher costs or delays.

This potential insulation is particularly relevant in sectors like building materials, specialty manufacturing, and consumer services—all areas where middle market companies often shine.

Long-Term Opportunities for Investors

For long-term investors, the key is to identify which middle market companies are not just reacting, but adapting and innovating in the face of policy changes. These firms may offer compelling upside potential when the dust settles.

Policy shocks like tariffs are not going away. But they don’t necessarily have to derail performance. In many cases, they can highlight hidden strengths—operational flexibility, strategic focus, and leadership that can thrive in uncertainty.

In an era of shifting policy, these resilient middle market growth stocks can be some of the most rewarding investments in the public markets.

Federal Reserve Policy Uncertainty Creates Middle Market Investment Opportunity

Posted on July 9, 2025July 9, 2025 by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

The Federal Reserve is positioning for interest rate cuts in 2025, but internal divisions over timing and magnitude are creating uncertainty that savvy investors can capitalize on. Recent FOMC meeting minutes reveal a central bank walking a tightrope between economic resilience and emerging warning signs. With rates held at 4.25% to 4.5% for the fourth consecutive meeting, Fed officials acknowledge that “most participants assessed that some reduction” would be appropriate before year-end. The drivers are clear: job growth is moderating, consumer spending is weakening, and policymakers believe tariff-related inflation pressures will prove “temporary and modest.”

However, the timeline remains contentious. Some officials floated cuts as early as July’s meeting, while others advocate waiting until 2026. This split reflects conflicting economic signals that make the Fed’s job increasingly complex. The data tells a nuanced story—June’s job growth of 147,000 exceeded expectations, pushing unemployment down to 4.1%, yet consumer spending declined for two consecutive months, and retail sales dropped 0.9% in May, suggesting Americans are pulling back on discretionary purchases. President Trump’s evolving tariff strategy adds another layer of complexity, with fresh threats of 200% duties on pharmaceuticals and shifting trade negotiations creating policy uncertainty, though recent data shows tariffs haven’t significantly impacted consumer prices.

For investors focused on publicly traded middle market companies, this rate environment represents both challenge and opportunity. These firms—typically valued between $100 million and $3 billion—occupy a strategic sweet spot between agile private companies and rate-insulated mega-caps. Middle market companies are particularly sensitive to interest rate changes because they rely more heavily on traditional debt financing for growth, face direct impacts on borrowing costs and capital allocation decisions, and trade at valuation multiples that respond quickly to rate expectations.

If aggressive rate cuts materialize, middle market stocks could experience significant multiple expansion. Lower debt servicing costs would boost margins while improved investor sentiment drives capital toward growth-oriented sectors like technology, manufacturing, and specialty services. Conversely, if cuts are delayed or modest, capital costs remain elevated, pressuring margins and slowing expansion plans. In this scenario, companies with fortress balance sheets and disciplined cash management will outperform leveraged peers.

Despite internal disagreements, the Fed’s message is clear: they’re ready to act when data justifies it. This creates a compelling setup for investors willing to position ahead of the eventual pivot. Middle market stocks with strong fundamentals appear particularly attractive, as rates normalize and these companies could benefit from renewed investor appetite for undervalued growth stories, improved access to capital markets, and enhanced M&A activity as strategic buyers regain confidence.

The Fed’s cautious approach to rate cuts reflects genuine economic uncertainty, but history suggests that patient investors who position during periods of policy transition often capture the most upside. For middle market investors, the current environment offers a rare opportunity to acquire quality companies at reasonable valuations before the market fully prices in lower rates. The key is identifying businesses with strong competitive positions, manageable debt loads, and clear paths to growth once monetary conditions ease. The spotlight is about to return to middle market stocks—the question is whether investors will be ready.

Pharma Shake-Up: Trump Threatens 200% Tariffs on Drug Imports

Posted on July 9, 2025July 9, 2025 by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

President Donald Trump announced on Tuesday his intention to impose tariffs of up to 200% on imported pharmaceutical products, a move that could dramatically reshape the pharmaceutical landscape. While the tariffs would not go into effect immediately, the president indicated they could be implemented “very soon,” with a grace period of roughly a year to a year and a half for companies to adapt.

The proposed tariffs come as part of a broader economic strategy aimed at bolstering domestic manufacturing and reducing U.S. reliance on foreign pharmaceutical production. Trump has long criticized the pharmaceutical industry for outsourcing production, and this latest proposal aligns with his “America First” trade agenda. The administration believes steep tariffs would incentivize companies to bring more manufacturing operations back to the United States.

Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick confirmed that the final details of the pharmaceutical tariffs will be revealed by the end of July, following the conclusion of studies on pharmaceuticals and semiconductors currently under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act. This legal framework allows the administration to impose trade barriers on national security grounds—one of the same avenues used for previous tariffs on steel and aluminum.

Pharmaceutical companies and industry groups reacted swiftly to the announcement. Major firms, including Eli Lilly, Johnson & Johnson, and AbbVie, have warned that such a move could lead to unintended consequences. Critics argue the tariffs would raise the cost of essential medicines, disrupt global supply chains, and potentially limit access to critical drugs for patients.

Industry leaders have also expressed concern that the new tariffs could stifle innovation by diverting funds away from research and development. The pharmaceutical sector is already under pressure from other regulatory changes related to drug pricing and reimbursement models. Adding steep tariffs into the mix, they argue, could further destabilize long-term investment in life-saving therapies.

Despite these concerns, Trump maintains that the threat of tariffs is a powerful lever to revive American manufacturing. While some large pharmaceutical companies have increased domestic investment in recent years, U.S.-based drug production still represents only a fraction of global output. Trump’s administration believes that tough economic measures are necessary to reverse decades of offshoring.

Notably, pharmaceutical stocks remained relatively stable in the immediate aftermath of the announcement, reflecting skepticism among investors about whether the tariffs will ultimately materialize or reach the proposed 200% threshold. Trump has previously floated similar trade measures that were later scaled back or delayed.

Still, the mere possibility of such tariffs signals a growing willingness to use aggressive trade policy in sectors traditionally considered too sensitive or complex for broad economic intervention. The coming weeks will likely bring more clarity as the administration finalizes its review and industry stakeholders prepare for what could be a major policy shift.

If enacted, these tariffs would mark one of the most consequential moves in U.S. healthcare trade policy in decades—potentially reshaping supply chains, pricing, and the geopolitical landscape of pharmaceutical production.

E.W. Scripps (SSP) – Strengthening Its Station Portfolio

Posted on July 8, 2025July 8, 2025 by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

Tuesday, July 08, 2025

The E.W. Scripps Company (NASDAQ: SSP) is a diversified media company focused on creating a better-informed world. As one of the nation’s largest local TV broadcasters, Scripps serves communities with quality, objective local journalism and operates a portfolio of 61 stations in 41 markets. The Scripps Networks reach nearly every American through the national news outlets Court TV and Newsy and popular entertainment brands ION, Bounce, Defy TV, Grit, ION Mystery, Laff and TrueReal. Scripps is the nation’s largest holder of broadcast spectrum. Scripps runs an award-winning investigative reporting newsroom in Washington, D.C., and is the longtime steward of the Scripps National Spelling Bee. Founded in 1878, Scripps has held for decades to the motto, “Give light and the people will find their own way.”

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.

Compelling station swap. Scripps will be selling its stations in Lansing MI and Lafayette LA to Gray Television (GTN: Not Rated) and buying stations in Colorado Springs, CO and Grand Junction, CO and a station in Twin Falls ID. We view the move favorably, given that Scripps will create station duopolies and strengthen its presence in the West. We believe that the move will create significant efficiencies for both companies, eliminating back office, duplicative, and overhead costs. This will be an even swap with no cash compensation to either party.

FCC fast track? The FCC has signaled its willingness to fast track the regulatory process, likely to provide a “waiver” to create duopolies rather than to seek a longer review/rulemaking process. As such, we believe that the transaction could be completed by year end.

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

Xcel Brands (XELB) – Seeking Fuel For Growth

Posted on July 8, 2025July 8, 2025 by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

Tuesday, July 08, 2025

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

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

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Files S1. The company plans to sell 1.381 million shares on a “best efforts” basis and pre-funded warrants. Pre-funded warrants are exercisable at any time after the date of issuance and may be exercised at any time. Notably, management has indicated its interest in participating in the offering for up to 10% of the shares. Following the prospective sale, total shares outstanding would increase to 3.819 million shares.

Use of proceeds. Based on the current stock price and assuming all shares are sold, management expects to generate roughly $1.9 million in net proceeds from the offering. The company plans to use the proceeds for working capital and general corporate purposes and toward a $50,000 principal loan payment to a company controlled by Robert D’Loren, the company’s Chairman and CEO.

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

Alliance Resource Partners (ARLP) – Outlook Remains Favorable, Increasing 2025 Estimates

Posted on July 8, 2025July 8, 2025 by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

Tuesday, July 08, 2025

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

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

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

Updating estimates. We are increasing our 2025 adjusted EBITDA and EPU estimates to $676.5 million and $2.55, respectively, from $672.6 million and $2.52. We increased our crude oil and natural gas price estimates based on CME futures settlements, which had a positive impact on oil and gas royalty revenue. Our 2026 adjusted EBITDA and EPS estimates are unchanged at $678.3 million and $2.60, respectively. While management expects the average coal sales price per ton to trend lower in 2026 due to higher-priced contracts rolling off, we think 2025 longwall moves and actions to improve productivity and cost effectiveness could help offset the impact of lower prices.

Recent legislation expected to benefit the fossil fuel industry. Following several executive orders earlier in the year intended to support the coal industry and delay coal power plant retirements, the Big Beautiful Bill (BBB) was signed into law on July 4 and is expected to benefit the fossil fuel industry. Among other things, the BBB phases out many of the clean energy tax credits established under the Inflation Reduction Act and creates a supportive environment for oil, gas, and coal production.

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

Royal Gold to Acquire Sandstorm Gold and Horizon Copper, Creating a Global Streaming and Royalty Powerhouse

Posted on July 8, 2025July 8, 2025 by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

In a landmark move set to reshape the metals royalty landscape, Royal Gold Inc. announced it will acquire Sandstorm Gold Royalties and Horizon Copper in two separate transactions valued at over $3.7 billion. The acquisitions will create a large-scale, highly diversified precious metals streaming and royalty company poised to lead the industry in both scale and growth potential.

Under the agreement with Sandstorm Gold Ltd., Royal Gold will acquire all outstanding Sandstorm shares in an all-stock transaction worth approximately $3.5 billion. Sandstorm shareholders will receive 0.0625 shares of Royal Gold for each Sandstorm share, representing a 21% premium to Sandstorm’s 20-day volume-weighted average price. Once completed, Sandstorm shareholders will own roughly 23% of the combined company.

Concurrently, Royal Gold will acquire Horizon Copper Corp. in an all-cash transaction valued at approximately $196 million. Horizon shareholders will receive C$2.00 per share—a substantial 85% premium to Horizon’s 20-day VWAP. These two deals are expected to close in the coming months, pending regulatory and shareholder approvals.

Strategic Synergies and Portfolio Expansion

The combined entity will emerge with a portfolio of 393 royalty and streaming assets, including 80 cash-flowing properties. Importantly, no single asset will represent more than 13% of the company’s net asset value, demonstrating a high level of diversification. Approximately 87% of the combined revenue will be derived from precious metals, with 75% from gold.

Notable producing assets include Mount Milligan in Canada, Pueblo Viejo in the Dominican Republic, Cortez in Nevada, and Andacollo in Chile. These high-quality, long-life operations provide a stable foundation for future cash flows. Development assets like MARA, Hod Maden, and Platreef promise significant organic growth.

Royal Gold expects to benefit from a strong balance sheet with minimal debt and robust free cash flow generation. The newly formed company will have the financial strength and scale to pursue additional growth opportunities, while enhancing its appeal to institutional investors.

Leadership Vision and Outlook

Sandstorm CEO Nolan Watson emphasized the strategic fit, highlighting that the merger delivers immediate value to shareholders while retaining exposure to future upside. He praised Sandstorm’s legacy of innovation and expressed confidence in Royal Gold’s ability to carry the torch forward.

Royal Gold CEO Bill Heissenbuttel echoed the sentiment, noting that the transactions align with the company’s long-standing strategy of disciplined growth in mining-friendly jurisdictions. He described the merger as a transformative step that creates an unmatched global portfolio of high-quality, long-life precious metal assets.

With enhanced scale, improved trading liquidity, and a proven track record of shareholder returns, the newly combined Royal Gold is expected to achieve a premium valuation and expanded market reach. Positioned as a top-tier vehicle for gold exposure in the U.S. marketplace, it is set to become a cornerstone in many institutional and retail investment portfolios.

Investors and analysts alike will be watching closely as this new chapter unfolds, marking a pivotal moment in the evolution of the royalty and streaming sector.

Middle Markets Brace for Impact as Trump’s Tariff Expansion Rattles Markets

Posted on July 8, 2025July 8, 2025 by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

Middle market companies across manufacturing, retail, and technology sectors are scrambling to assess potential impacts after President Trump’s Monday announcement of 25% tariffs on Japanese and South Korean imports, set to take effect August 1st. The move sent shockwaves through equity markets, with major indices posting their worst single-day performance in weeks.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average plummeted over 400 points, closing down 1.21%, while the S&P 500 and Nasdaq Composite shed 0.98% and 1.03% respectively. For middle market investors, the selloff signals deeper concerns about how expanding trade tensions could reshape global supply chains and corporate profitability.

Middle market manufacturers with exposure to Japanese and South Korean suppliers face immediate headwinds. Companies in automotive parts, electronics components, and industrial machinery sectors are particularly vulnerable, as these industries rely heavily on specialized inputs from both countries.

Japan remains a critical supplier of precision machinery and automotive components, while South Korea dominates in semiconductors, displays, and advanced materials. The proposed 25% levy could force companies to either absorb significant cost increases or pass them to consumers, potentially crimping demand.

Trump’s escalation extends beyond Asia, with threatened tariffs ranging from 25% to 40% on imports from South Africa, Malaysia, and other nations. The President’s additional 10% levy on countries aligned with BRICS policies adds another layer of complexity for companies with emerging market exposure.

The timing proves particularly challenging as many middle market firms are still recovering from previous trade disruptions. Companies that invested heavily in supply chain diversification following earlier tariff rounds now face the prospect of further reorganization.

Technology-focused middle market companies face dual pressures from both component cost increases and potential retaliation affecting export opportunities. Manufacturing firms with just-in-time inventory systems may need to accelerate stockpiling, tying up working capital.

Retail-oriented middle market companies importing consumer goods from targeted countries could see margin compression if they cannot pass costs to price-sensitive customers. The uncertainty also complicates inventory planning and pricing strategies heading into the crucial back-to-school and holiday seasons.

Despite the volatility, some middle market investors see potential opportunities emerging. Companies with domestic supply chains or those positioned to benefit from supply chain reshoring could gain competitive advantages. Additionally, firms with strong balance sheets may find acquisition opportunities as smaller competitors struggle with increased costs.

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent’s indication of potential deals in coming days provides some hope for resolution, though markets remain skeptical given the administration’s aggressive timeline. The focus on 18 major trading partners before expanding to over 100 countries suggests a systematic approach, but also highlights the scope of potential disruption.

With earnings season approaching, middle market companies will face intense scrutiny on guidance and cost management strategies. Thursday’s Delta Air Lines report kicks off what many analysts expect to be a challenging quarter for companies with significant international exposure.

The key question for middle market investors remains whether current valuations adequately reflect the potential for prolonged trade tensions. As markets digest the implications of Trump’s latest tariff expansion, portfolio positioning and risk management become increasingly critical for navigating the uncertain landscape ahead.

Trump Escalates Trade War: 25% Tariffs Hit Japan and South Korea

Posted on July 7, 2025July 7, 2025 by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

President Trump dramatically escalated his global trade offensive Monday, announcing 25% tariffs on imports from Japan and South Korea while threatening even higher duties on nations aligning with BRICS policies he deems “anti-American.” The move marks a significant expansion of the administration’s protectionist agenda beyond traditional targets like China.

The President posted formal notification letters to both Asian allies on social media, declaring the tariffs would take effect August 1. The announcement caught markets and diplomatic circles off guard, as both Japan and South Korea have been key U.S. allies for decades and major trading partners in critical technology sectors.

Trump’s tariff strategy appears designed to leverage economic pressure for broader geopolitical objectives. In his letter to Japanese Prime Minister, Trump offered a clear carrot-and-stick approach: “There will be no Tariff if Japan, or companies within your Country, decide to build or manufacture product within the United States.”

The administration promises expedited approvals for companies willing to relocate manufacturing operations to American soil, potentially completing the process “in a matter of weeks” rather than the typical months or years required for major industrial projects.

This represents a significant shift from traditional trade diplomacy, using tariff threats as direct incentives for foreign investment and manufacturing relocation. The approach mirrors tactics used successfully with several other trading partners, where the threat of punitive duties has led to increased American manufacturing commitments.

Perhaps most concerning for global trade stability, Trump explicitly warned both countries that any retaliatory tariffs would be met with equivalent increases in U.S. duties. This tit-for-tat escalation mechanism could quickly spiral into a destructive trade war with America’s closest Pacific allies.

The President cited “long-term, and very persistent” trade deficits as justification for restructuring these relationships. Japan previously faced 24% tariffs in April before a temporary pause, while South Korea had been subject to 25% rates, suggesting the administration views these levels as baseline positions rather than maximum penalties.

The tariff announcements represent just the latest moves in Trump’s comprehensive trade realignment strategy. The administration has been systematically addressing trade relationships across multiple continents, with varying degrees of success and diplomatic tension.

Recent developments elsewhere show the mixed results of this approach. China has seen some easing of tensions, with the U.S. relaxing export restrictions on chip design software and ethane following framework agreements toward a broader trade deal. Vietnam reached accommodation with a 20% tariff rate—substantially lower than the 46% originally threatened—though facing 40% duties on transshipped goods.

The European Union has signaled willingness to accept 10% universal tariffs while seeking sector-specific exemptions, indicating established trading blocs are adapting to the new reality rather than engaging in prolonged resistance.

The targeting of Japan and South Korea creates particular challenges given their roles as critical technology suppliers and security partners. Both nations are integral to global semiconductor supply chains, with South Korean companies like Samsung and SK Hynix playing essential roles in memory chip production, while Japanese firms dominate specialized manufacturing equipment and materials.

The timing appears strategic, occurring as the administration faces domestic pressure to demonstrate progress on trade deficit reduction while maintaining leverage in ongoing negotiations with other partners. The threat of duties reaching as high as 70% on some goods creates enormous uncertainty for businesses planning international supply chain strategies.

Canada’s recent decision to scrap its digital services tax affecting U.S. technology companies demonstrates how the tariff threat environment is reshaping international policy decisions. The White House indicated trade talks with Canada have resumed, targeting a mid-July agreement deadline.

This pattern suggests the administration’s approach of combining immediate tariff threats with longer-term negotiation windows may be yielding results in some cases, even as it strains traditional alliance relationships.

As more notification letters are expected today, global markets are bracing for additional announcements that could further reshape international trade relationships and supply chain strategies worldwide.