Category: Defense

Release – Graham Corporation Announces Strategic Investment by Customer to Enhance Production Capabilities in Batavia

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

Research News and Market Data on Graham Corporation

May 01, 2025 8:30am EDT

BATAVIA, N.Y.–(BUSINESS WIRE)– Graham Corporation (NYSE: GHM) (“GHM” or “the Company”), a global leader in the design and manufacture of mission critical fluid, power, heat transfer, and vacuum technologies for the defense, space, energy, and process industries, today announced a strategic investment to support the implementation of new Radiographic Testing (“RT”) equipment at Graham’s Batavia, New York facility.

The investment of $2.2 million, from one of GHM’s customers, will enhance the Company’s capabilities in evaluating critical welds in support of the Columbia and Virginia class submarine programs. As part of the investment, Graham will also contribute $1.4 million for a total project cost of $3.6 million.

Daniel J. Thoren, CEO commented, “This strategic investment in RT equipment represents our commitment to delivering the highest quality components for critical naval defense programs. The upgraded RT capabilities at our Batavia facility is expected to significantly enhance our production efficiency while ensuring superior quality control for the vital welds that support the Columbia and Virginia class submarine programs. We’re grateful for our customer’s commitment to drive enhanced manufacturing infrastructure and are excited to continue our partnership.”

The strategic investment creates opportunities to support future, multi-year orders with potential enhanced revenue expected to begin in calendar year 2026.

This agreement builds upon previously announced investments by partners, including $13.5 million to expand defense production capabilities in Batavia in August 2023 and $2.1 million by the BlueForge Alliance in July 2024 to expand Graham’s welder training program in support of the U.S. Navy’s Submarine Industrial Base initiatives.

About Graham Corporation

Graham is a global leader in the design and manufacture of mission critical fluid, power, heat transfer and vacuum technologies for the defense, space, energy, and process industries. Graham Corporation and its family of global brands are built upon world-renowned engineering expertise in vacuum and heat transfer, cryogenic pumps, and turbomachinery technologies, as well as its responsive and flexible service and the unsurpassed quality customers have come to expect from the Company’s products and systems. Graham Corporation routinely posts news and other important information on its website, grahamcorp.com, where additional information on Graham Corporation and its businesses can be found.

Safe Harbor Regarding Forward Looking Statements

This news release contains 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.

Forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions and are identified by words such as “continue,” “expects,” “future,” “will,” and other similar words. All statements addressing operating performance, events, or developments that Graham Corporation expects or anticipates will occur in the future, including but not limited to, expected expansion and growth opportunities, and expected benefits from the implementation of new RT equipment, are forward-looking statements. Because they are forward-looking, they should be evaluated in light of important risk factors and uncertainties. These risk factors and uncertainties are more fully described in Graham Corporation’s most recent Annual Report filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), included under the heading entitled “Risk Factors”, and in other reports filed with the SEC.

Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize or should any of Graham Corporation’s underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those currently anticipated. In addition, undue reliance should not be placed on Graham Corporation’s forward-looking statements. Except as required by law, Graham Corporation disclaims any obligation to update or publicly announce any revisions to any of the forward-looking statements contained in this news release.

For more information, contact:
Christopher J. Thome
Vice President – Finance and CFO
Phone: (585) 343-2216

Tom Cook
Investor Relations
Phone: (203) 682-8250
tom.cook@icrinc.com

Source: Graham Corporation

Released May 1, 2025

Release – NN Announces 2025 Investor Day

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

Research News and Market Data on NN Inc.

Company plans to host a virtual investor day for analysts, current and prospective investors in August 2025

CHARLOTTE, N.C., April 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — NN (NASDAQ: NNBR) a global diversified industrial company that engineers and manufactures high-precision components and assemblies, today announced its plans to host a 2025 virtual investor day in August 2025.

NN has been performing to its short-term and long-term goals. During its coming Investor Day, NN’s executive management plans to provide updates and discuss multiple important shareholder value-creating topics including:

  • A holistic update to NN’s five-year targets for sales growth, increased profitability, and shareholder value
  • Update on 2025 Outlook
  • The Company’s capital allocation strategy
  • The Company’s M&A acquisition strategy and objectives
  • The Company’s capital markets strategy and the next phase of its capital structure optimization roadmap
  • An overview and discussion of market trends and NN’s participation in specific markets including;
    • US electrical grid market
    • US industrial market
    • Global passenger vehicle market
    • Global commercial vehicle market
    • Global medical market
  • NN management will also host discussions and overviews on important topics including;
    • NN’s $700+ million new business program and pipeline specifics
    • NN’s cost-out program and major ongoing and upcoming projects
    • NN’s free cash flow generation program and major associated projects

There will be more to come regarding this investor event. NN management plans to spend the day together with analysts, current and prospective investors, lenders, and the broader investment community.

About NN

NN is a global industrial company that combines advanced engineering and production capabilities to deliver solutions for high-precision components and assemblies for a variety of markets on a global basis. Headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina, NN has facilities in North America, Asia, Europe, and South America. For more information, visit www.nninc.com. 

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Except for specific historical information, many of the matters discussed in this press release may express or imply projections of revenues or expenditures, statements of plans and objectives or future operations or statements of future economic performance. These statements may discuss goals, intentions and expectations as to future trends, plans, events, results of operations or financial condition, or state other information relating to NN, Inc. (the “Company”) based on current beliefs of management as well as assumptions made by, and information currently available to, management. Forward-looking statements generally will be accompanied by words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “forecast,” “growth,” “guidance,” “intend,” “may,” “will,” “possible,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “trajectory” or other similar words, phrases or expressions. Forward-looking statements involve a number of risks and uncertainties that are outside of management’s control and that may cause actual results to be materially different from such forward-looking statements. Such factors include, among others, general economic conditions and economic conditions in the industrial sector; the impacts of pandemics, epidemics, disease outbreaks and other public health crises, on our financial condition, business operations and liquidity; competitive influences; risks that current customers will commence or increase captive production; risks of capacity underutilization; quality issues; material changes in the costs and availability of raw materials; economic, social, political and geopolitical instability, military conflict, currency fluctuation, and other risks of doing business outside of the United States; inflationary pressures and changes in the cost or availability of materials, supply chain shortages and disruptions, the availability of labor and labor disruptions along the supply chain; our dependence on certain major customers, some of whom are not parties to long-term agreements (and/or are terminable on short notice); the impact of acquisitions and divestitures, as well as expansion of end markets and product offerings; our ability to hire or retain key personnel; the level of our indebtedness; the restrictions contained in our debt agreements; our ability to obtain financing at favorable rates, if at all, and to refinance existing debt as it matures; our ability to secure, maintain or enforce patents or other appropriate protections for our intellectual property; new laws and governmental regulations; the impact of climate change on our operations; and cyber liability or potential liability for breaches of our or our service providers’ information technology systems or business operations disruptions. The foregoing factors should not be construed as exhaustive and should be read in conjunction with the sections entitled “Risk Factors” and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024. Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date of this press release, and the Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or review any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as required by law. New risks and uncertainties may emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for the Company to predict their occurrence or how they will affect the Company. The Company qualifies all forward-looking statements by these cautionary statements.

Investor Relations: 
Joseph Caminiti or Stephen Poe, Investors 
NNBR@alpha-ir.com  
312-445-2870 

Release – DLH to Announce Fiscal 2025 Second Quarter Financial Results

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

Research News and Market Data on DLH Holdings

April 28, 2025

ATLANTA, April 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — DLH Holdings Corp. (NASDAQ: DLHC) (“DLH” or the “Company”), a leading provider of science research and development, systems engineering and integration, and digital transformation and cyber security solutions to federal agencies, will release financial results for the fiscal second quarter ended March 31, 2025 on May 7, 2025 after the market closes. DLH will then host a conference call for the investment community at 10:00 a.m. Eastern Time the following day, May 8, 2025, during which members of senior management will make a brief presentation focused on the financial results and operating trends. A question-and-answer session will follow.  

Interested parties may listen to the conference call by dialing 888-347-5290 or 412-317-5256.  Presentation materials will also be posted on the Investor Relations section of the DLH website prior to the commencement of the conference call. A digital recording of the conference call will be available for replay two hours after the completion of the call and can be accessed on the DLH Investor Relations website or by dialing 877-344-7529 and entering the conference ID 3751581.
  
About DLH
DLH (NASDAQ: DLHC), a Russell 2000 company, enhances technology, public health, and cyber security readiness missions through science, technology, cyber, and engineering solutions and services. Our experts solve some of the most complex and critical missions faced by customers today, leveraging digital transformation, artificial intelligence, advanced analytics, cloud-based applications, telehealth systems, and more. With over 2,800 employees dedicated to the idea that “Your Mission is Our Passion,” DLH brings a unique combination of technology, innovation, and world-class expertise, to improve lives across the globe. For more information, visit www.DLHcorp.com.

INVESTOR RELATIONS
Contact: Chris Witty
Phone: 646-438-9385
Email: cwitty@darrowir.com

Government Solutions Industry Report: New ICE Emergency Funding?

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

Thursday, April 3, 2025

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

Refer to the bottom of the report for important disclosures

Emergency Funding. On Tuesday, the Department of Homeland Security submitted on SAM.gov for an emergency detention and related services strategic sourcing vehicle to bring an additional allotment of detention beds online nationwide, in compliance with the President’s Declaration of a National Emergency at the Southern Border of the United States and related Executive Orders. The maximum ceiling value of the vehicle is $45 billion.

Details. Under the RFP, the government anticipates making multiple indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity (IDIQ) contract awards. It appears the contract will have a two-year period of performance, from April 14, 2025, through April 13, 2027.  Responses are due by April 4th. Under the scope of work, the vendor may be required to provide infrastructure, staffing, services, and/or supplies necessary to provide safe and secure confinement for aliens in the administrative custody of ICE. Ground transportation services may also be required.

Current ICE Population. ICE populations have increased significantly under the new Administration. ADP during the month of October was 38,714, which rose to 40,205 for the month of January. ADP for March 1 through March 22nd was 47,304, while the population on that date was 47,892, according to ICE. There has not yet been a significant change in ATD populations.

Implications. Given the timelines involved and the scope of work required, this ID/IQ would seem to favor the abilities of both CoreCivic and GEO, given their history in the sector and the number of idle facilities that can be brought back online. ICE’s budget in 2024 was $9.7 billion, with about $3.3 billion dedicated to Enforcement and Removal Operations, so a new max of $45 billion is a major jump. If these types of funds are put to use in a timely manner, the current financial projections for both CoreCivic and GEO would prove conservative, in our view.

Research reports on companies mentioned in this report are available by clicking below:

CoreCivic (CXW)

The GEO Group (GEO)

GENERAL DISCLAIMERS

All statements or opinions contained herein that include the words “we”, “us”, or “our” are solely the responsibility of Noble Capital Markets, Inc.(“Noble”) and do not necessarily reflect statements or opinions expressed by any person or party affiliated with the company mentioned in this report. Any opinions expressed herein are subject to change without notice. All information provided herein is based on public and non-public information believed to be accurate and reliable, but is not necessarily complete and cannot be guaranteed. No judgment is hereby expressed or should be implied as to the suitability of any security described herein for any specific investor or any specific investment portfolio. The decision to undertake any investment regarding the security mentioned herein should be made by each reader of this publication based on its own appraisal of the implications and risks of such decision.

This publication is intended for information purposes only and shall not constitute an offer to buy/sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy/sell any security mentioned in this report, nor shall there be any sale of the security herein in any state or domicile in which said offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or domicile. This publication and all information, comments, statements or opinions contained or expressed herein are applicable only as of the date of this publication and subject to change without prior notice. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Noble accepts no liability for loss arising from the use of the material in this report, except that this exclusion of liability does not apply to the extent that such liability arises under specific statutes or regulations applicable to Noble. This report is not to be relied upon as a substitute for the exercising of independent judgement. Noble may have published, and may in the future publish, other research reports that are inconsistent with, and reach different conclusions from, the information provided in this report. Noble is under no obligation to bring to the attention of any recipient of this report, any past or future reports. Investors should only consider this report as single factor in making an investment decision.

IMPORTANT DISCLOSURES

This publication is confidential for the information of the addressee only and may not be reproduced in whole or in part, copies circulated, or discussed to another party, without the written consent of Noble Capital Markets, Inc. (“Noble”). Noble seeks to update its research as appropriate, but may be unable to do so based upon various regulatory constraints. Research reports are not published at regular intervals; publication times and dates are based upon the analyst’s judgement. Noble professionals including traders, salespeople and investment bankers may provide written or oral market commentary, or discuss trading strategies to Noble clients and the Noble proprietary trading desk that reflect opinions that are contrary to the opinions expressed in this research report.
The majority of companies that Noble follows are emerging growth companies. Securities in these companies involve a higher degree of risk and more volatility than the securities of more established companies. The securities discussed in Noble research reports may not be suitable for some investors and as such, investors must take extra care and make their own determination of the appropriateness of an investment based upon risk tolerance, investment objectives and financial status.

Company Specific Disclosures

The following disclosures relate to relationships between Noble and the company (the “Company”) covered by the Noble Research Division and referred to in this research report.
Noble is not a market maker in any of the companies mentioned in this report. Noble intends to seek compensation for investment banking services and non-investment banking services (securities and non-securities related) with any or all of the companies mentioned in this report within the next 3 months

ANALYST CREDENTIALS, PROFESSIONAL DESIGNATIONS, AND EXPERIENCE

Senior Equity Analyst focusing on Basic Materials & Mining. 20 years of experience in equity research. BA in Business Administration from Westminster College. MBA with a Finance concentration from the University of Missouri. MA in International Affairs from Washington University in St. Louis.
Named WSJ ‘Best on the Street’ Analyst and Forbes/StarMine’s “Best Brokerage Analyst.”
FINRA licenses 7, 24, 63, 87

WARNING

This report is intended to provide general securities advice, and does not purport to make any recommendation that any securities transaction is appropriate for any recipient particular investment objectives, financial situation or particular needs. Prior to making any investment decision, recipients should assess, or seek advice from their advisors, on whether any relevant part of this report is appropriate to their individual circumstances. If a recipient was referred to Noble Capital Markets, Inc. by an investment advisor, that advisor may receive a benefit in respect of
transactions effected on the recipients behalf, details of which will be available on request in regard to a transaction that involves a personalized securities recommendation. Additional risks associated with the security mentioned in this report that might impede achievement of the target can be found in its initial report issued by Noble Capital Markets, Inc.. This report may not be reproduced, distributed or published for any purpose unless authorized by Noble Capital Markets, Inc..

RESEARCH ANALYST CERTIFICATION

Independence Of View
All views expressed in this report accurately reflect my personal views about the subject securities or issuers.

Receipt of Compensation
No part of my compensation was, is, or will be directly or indirectly related to any specific recommendations or views expressed in the public
appearance and/or research report.

Ownership and Material Conflicts of Interest
Neither I nor anybody in my household has a financial interest in the securities of the subject company or any other company mentioned in this report.

Scale AI’s Defense Deal: A New Frontier in Military AI Technology

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com
Key Points:
– Scale AI secures multimillion-dollar contract with Department of Defense
– “Thunderforge” program aims to integrate AI into military planning and operations
– Tech industry continues shifting towards military AI partnerships

Scale AI has entered a pivotal moment in the evolving landscape of military artificial intelligence, securing a multimillion-dollar contract with the Department of Defense for the “Thunderforge” program. This landmark deal represents a significant step in the integration of AI technologies into military strategic planning and operational decision-making.

The Defense Innovation Unit’s flagship program will leverage AI agents to enhance military capabilities across multiple domains. Partnering with technology giants like Anduril and Microsoft, Scale AI will develop AI solutions designed to accelerate decision-making processes and provide advanced modeling and simulation capabilities.

CEO Alexandr Wang emphasized the transformative potential of the technology, stating that their AI solutions will “modernize American defense” and provide military leaders with a technological advantage. The program’s initial rollout will focus on U.S. Indo-Pacific and European Commands, with plans to expand to additional areas.

The contract highlights a broader trend in the tech industry’s approach to military partnerships. Companies that previously maintained strict policies against military applications are now actively engaging with defense initiatives. OpenAI, Google, and other major tech firms have quietly modified their stance on military technology use, reflecting a significant shift in the industry’s perspective.

This evolution hasn’t been without controversy. Tech employees have historically voiced concerns about their companies’ military contracts, most notably during Google’s Project Maven, which involved AI analysis of drone surveillance footage. Margaret Mitchell, an AI ethics researcher, points out the complex ethical considerations, noting that companies cannot fully control how their technologies might be ultimately utilized.

The Thunderforge program emphasizes “speed” as a critical advantage, with defense officials repeatedly highlighting the need for rapid decision-making in modern warfare. The AI agents will support various military functions, including modeling potential scenarios, suggesting courses of action, and creating automated workflows.

While Scale AI maintains that the program will operate under human oversight, the broader implications of AI in military applications remain a topic of intense debate. The potential for AI to transform military operations is significant, but so are the ethical concerns surrounding autonomous decision-making systems.

Other recent military AI partnerships underscore this trend. Anthropic has collaborated with Palantir and Amazon Web Services to provide AI models for intelligence agencies, while OpenAI has partnered with Anduril to develop advanced systems for national security missions.

The technology’s potential extends beyond traditional warfare, with applications in intelligence gathering, threat assessment, and strategic planning. However, experts like Mitchell caution that the line between defensive technology and potential harm can be increasingly blurry.

As military AI continues to evolve, the tech industry finds itself at a critical intersection of innovation, ethics, and national security. Scale AI’s Thunderforge program represents a significant milestone in this ongoing technological transformation.

The GEO Group (GEO) – A Look into the Fourth Quarter

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com


Friday, February 28, 2025

The GEO Group, Inc. (NYSE: GEO) is a leading diversified government service provider, specializing in design, financing, development, and support services for secure facilities, processing centers, and community reentry centers in the United States, Australia, South Africa, and the United Kingdom. GEO’s diversified services include enhanced in-custody rehabilitation and post-release support through the award-winning GEO Continuum of Care®, secure transportation, electronic monitoring, community-based programs, and correctional health and mental health care. GEO’s worldwide operations include the ownership and/or delivery of support services for 103 facilities totaling approximately 83,000 beds, including idle facilities and projects under development, with a workforce of up to approximately 18,000 employees.

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

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

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

4Q Results. Revenues for the fourth quarter slightly declined to $607.7 million from $608.3 million in the prior year. Adjusted EBITDA totaled $108.0 million, down from $129.0 million last year. Net income was $15.5 million, or $0.11 per diluted share, down from $25.2 million, or $0.17 per share, last year. Adjusted EPS was $0.13 per diluted share versus $0.29 per share the prior year. Earnings and adjusted EBITDA were below expectations, primarily due to higher general and administrative expenses incurred during the fourth quarter of 2024.

New ICE Contract. Also announced was the award of a 15-year, fixed-price contract by ICE to provide support services for the establishment of a federal immigration processing center at the company-owned, 1,000 bed Delaney Hall facility in Newark, NJ. The contract is expected to generate in excess of $60 million in its first full year of operations, with margins consistent with GEO’s Secure Services facilities. The idle facility is expected to be activated in 2Q 2025, with revenues and earnings from the new contract normalizing during the second half of 2025.


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. 

CoreCivic, Inc. (CXW) – ICE Adding Capacity

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com


Friday, February 28, 2025

CoreCivic is a diversified, government-solutions company with the scale and experience needed to solve tough government challenges in flexible, cost-effective ways. We provide a broad range of solutions to government partners that serve the public good through high-quality corrections and detention management, a network of residential and non-residential alternatives to incarceration to help address America’s recidivism crisis, and government real estate solutions. We are the nation’s largest owner of partnership correctional, detention and residential reentry facilities, and believe we are the largest private owner of real estate used by government agencies in the United States. We have been a flexible and dependable partner for government for nearly 40 years. Our employees are driven by a deep sense of service, high standards of professionalism and a responsibility to help government better the public good. Learn more at www.corecivic.com.

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

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

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

Additional Capacity. Yesterday, CoreCivic announced the Company entered into contract modifications with the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) at various facilities for up to an additional 1,036 beds. We view this as the first step by ICE to add capacity in its efforts to enforce President Trump’s crackdown on undocumented migrants. We anticipate additional contracting activity that will help satisfy ICE’s growing needs.

Details. ICE entered into contract modifications to add capacity for up to a total of 784 detainees at CoreCivic’s 2,016-bed Northeast Ohio Correctional Center, its 1,072-bed Nevada Southern Detention Center, and its 1,600-bed Cimarron Correctional Facility in Oklahoma. In addition, CoreCivic has obtained a contract modification to specify that ICE may use up to 252 beds at its 2,672-bed Tallahatchie County Correctional Facility in Mississippi.


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) – Another New Award

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com


Thursday, February 27, 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.

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

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

FBI Award. Yesterday, V2X announced a $100 million contract award to provide aviation maintenance and support services for the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s (FBI) Critical Incident Response Group. Under this contract, V2X will deliver mission-critical aviation resources that enable the FBI to conduct intelligence gathering, investigate operations, and law-enforcement activities.

Contract Details. The indefinite-delivery, indefinite-quantity contract includes a five-year ordering period with four 12-month options. V2X will operate at multiple locations across the United States for the FBI. We view this award as further client diversification for the Company.


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. 

Kratos Defense & Security (KTOS) – New Joint Venture Announced with 4Q Results

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com


Thursday, February 27, 2025

Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. (NASDAQ:KTOS) develops and fields transformative, affordable technology, platforms, and systems for United States National Security related customers, allies, and commercial enterprises. Kratos is changing the way breakthrough technologies for these industries are rapidly brought to market through proven commercial and venture capital backed approaches, including proactive research, and streamlined development processes. At Kratos, affordability is a technology, and we specialize in unmanned systems, satellite communications, cyber security/warfare, microwave electronics, missile defense, hypersonic systems, training and combat systems and next generation turbo jet and turbo fan engine development. For more information go to www.kratosdefense.com.

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

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

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

4Q Results. Revenue for the fourth quarter was $283.1 million, an increase from $273.8 million last year but slightly below our $290 million estimate. Gross margin was 24.7% compared to 26.3%. Net income was $3.9 million, or $0.03/sh, from $2.4 million, or $0.02/sh, last year. We estimated net income of $2.5 million or $0.02/sh. Adjusted EPS was $0.13 from $0.12 last year and our $0.10 estimate. Adjusted EBITDA was $25.2 million from $29.1 million last year and our $24 million estimate.

New Joint Venture. Alongside the results was the announcement of a new joint venture with the Company and RAFAEL. The roughly 50/50 partnership is to establish a U.S.-based merchant supplier of solid rocket motors (SRMs) and other energetics named Prometheus Energetics. Up to $175 million in capital is committed between the two companies, with the venture currently forecasted an annual base case revenue of several $100 million a year once at rate production. In our view, the venture can represent a substantial value-creation driver and could potentially drive top and bottom-line growth once up and running.


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 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. 

Private Prison Stocks Surge Following Trump’s Immigration Appointment

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com
Key Points:
– Shares of Geo Group and CoreCivic saw significant increases (over 7% and 8%, respectively) after the appointment of Tom Homan as “border czar,”
– Homan’s appointment aligns with Trump’s strong stance on deportation and border security, so there is an anticipated increase in federal contracts for private detention companies
– Renewed focus on immigration enforcement marks a a significant departure from the current adminstration’s stance

Private prison stocks surged Monday after President-elect Donald Trump appointed Tom Homan as “border czar,” sparking market optimism about a renewed focus on immigration enforcement. Shares of Geo Group and CoreCivic, both major players in the private detention sector, jumped over 7% and 8%, respectively, in response to the announcement. Homan, previously the head of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) under Trump’s first term, is known for his firm stance on deportation and border security. His appointment signals a potential increase in federal contracting for companies that provide detention services, specifically for ICE operations.

Trump’s announcement on Truth Social stated that Homan will be in charge of all deportation efforts, encompassing both land and maritime borders, with an emphasis on accelerating deportations. During a conservative conference in July, Homan declared he would lead the “biggest deportation force” in U.S. history if Trump was re-elected. This strong stance aligns with Trump’s previous immigration policies, which saw heightened demand for detention facilities, and is expected to bolster the private prison industry, including companies like Geo Group and CoreCivic, which have contracts with ICE and the U.S. Marshals Service.

The renewed focus on immigration enforcement under Trump is a significant shift from the current administration’s approach, which has limited federal use of private detention centers. This shift presents a potential growth opportunity for private prison companies, which struggled as President Biden worked to reduce private prison contracts. With Homan’s appointment, investors anticipate a resurgence of federal reliance on private detention services to meet increased demand for housing immigrant detainees.

Analysts have responded positively to this development, citing that Trump’s administration will likely “embrace” companies like Geo Group and CoreCivic. Isaac Boltansky, an analyst with BTIG, noted that private prison companies are positioned for growth under an immigration-focused administration, specifically due to likely contracting needs with the U.S. Marshals Service and ICE. Analysts expect Homan’s policies to generate consistent demand for private facilities, which could lead to stronger financial performance and increased market value for these companies.

Trump’s firm stance on deportation and his choice of Homan as border czar have energized investors. The expected rise in federal contracts signals a favorable outlook for private prison stocks. With immigration reform likely to be a focal point in Trump’s administration, CoreCivic and Geo Group could see sustained growth, especially as they support the expanded need for detention services. The private prison sector, long entangled with federal enforcement policies, now faces a potential resurgence as market trends align with anticipated shifts in government policy.

U.S. Indexes Fall as Iran Fires Missiles at Israel; Defense Stocks Surge

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com
Key Points:
– U.S. stock indexes drop, with Nasdaq down over 1% after Iran’s missile attack on Israel.
– Defense stocks rise as oil prices surge amid geopolitical tensions.
– Investors grow cautious, monitoring U.S. job data and port strikes.

U.S. stock markets took a sharp turn downward on Tuesday as news broke of Iran launching a barrage of ballistic missiles at Israel, heightening tensions in the Middle East. The Nasdaq Composite led the decline, falling by over 1%, while the broader market also saw losses, reflecting growing investor caution in the face of geopolitical instability. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell by 0.2%, and the S&P 500 dropped 0.75%.

The attack by Iran is seen as retaliation for Israel’s ongoing military campaign against Hezbollah, Iran’s ally in the region. In response to the missile strikes, President Joe Biden directed the U.S. military to support Israel’s defense and to shoot down any missiles aimed at the country, as confirmed by the White House National Security Council.

While the broader market felt the impact of the escalating conflict, shares in the defense sector surged. Companies like Northrop Grumman and Lockheed Martin saw their stock prices rise, as investors shifted focus to the increased demand for defense and military technology in light of the conflict. The S&P 500 Aerospace and Defense Index rose by more than 1%, hitting a new record high.

Energy companies also benefitted from the geopolitical unrest, with oil prices rising alongside the tensions. Exxon Mobil gained 2.2% as West Texas Intermediate crude oil climbed over 4%. The possibility of further supply disruptions in the Middle East, which produces a significant portion of the world’s oil, pushed investors into energy stocks, which historically serve as a hedge during times of geopolitical uncertainty.

On the other hand, airline stocks like Delta Air Lines experienced losses, reflecting concerns over potential disruptions in travel and higher fuel costs. Delta’s shares dropped by 1%, as investors anticipated a tightening of air travel conditions due to escalating tensions in the region.

“This situation highlights the variety of risks the market is currently facing, from slowing employment to geopolitical tensions,” noted Walter Todd, Chief Investment Officer at Greenwood Capital. “The market is vulnerable to shocks like this, and it’s reacting accordingly.”

The heightened geopolitical risk comes at a time when U.S. markets were already grappling with several economic uncertainties. On Monday, the three major indexes had posted strong gains for September and for the third quarter, but Tuesday’s developments prompted a reversal of that trend. In addition to the conflict in the Middle East, investors are also closely watching economic data related to U.S. job openings and manufacturing activity, which rebounded in August but still signaled broader concerns about the health of the economy.

Increased market volatility followed the news, with the CBOE Volatility Index, also known as the VIX or “fear gauge,” jumping by two points to 18.74. Earlier in the session, the index had reached a three-week high of 20.73, indicating a growing sense of uncertainty among investors.

Meanwhile, the looming East Coast and Gulf Coast port strikes, which began Tuesday, added another layer of complexity to the market’s reaction. The strike has halted approximately half of the nation’s ocean shipping, potentially exacerbating economic disruptions and creating further uncertainty for policymakers at the Federal Reserve as they assess the state of the economy.

Investors will be watching closely as more economic data is released later in the week, particularly the U.S. jobless claims report on Thursday and the monthly payrolls data on Friday. With market sentiment already rattled by geopolitical events, these figures could further influence the outlook for future Federal Reserve interest rate cuts.

Graham Corp (GHM) – A Deeper Dive into 2Q24 Results and Updated Model

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com


Friday, August 09, 2024

Graham Corporation designs, manufactures and sells critical equipment for the energy, defense and chemical/petrochemical industries. The Company designs and manufactures custom-engineered ejectors, vacuum pumping systems, surface condensers and vacuum systems. It is a nuclear code accredited fabrication and specialty machining company. It supplies components used inside reactor vessels and outside containment vessels of nuclear power facilities. Its equipment is found in applications, such as metal refining, pulp and paper processing, water heating, refrigeration, desalination, food processing, pharmaceutical, heating, ventilating and air conditioning. For the defense industry, its equipment is used in nuclear propulsion power systems for the United States Navy. The Company’s products are used in a range of industrial process applications in energy markets, including petroleum refining, defense, chemical and petrochemical processing, power generation/alternative energy and other.

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

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

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

2Q24 Results. The improved top and bottom lines reflect Graham’s successful operating strategy, in our view. The first quarter can be characterized by solid growth, consistent improvement, and strengthened profitability. We also would note the expansion of Graham’s defense business has reduced the Company’s economic sensitivity.

New Orders. Graham’s Barber-Nichols segment reported the receipt of three new awards, totaling in excess of $65 million. An extension of work for the MK48 Mod 7 Heavyweight torpedo program, received in the first quarter; a new program for the Columbia-class submarine; and a contract to provide cryogenic recirculation pumps for space vehicles. We believe these awards demonstrate the Company’s capabilities to successfully compete in its key markets.


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) – Capital Structure Enhancement

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com


Tuesday, June 04, 2024

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

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

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

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

Repricing and Extension. Yesterday, V2X announced a repricing and extension of its $907 million First Lien term loan. The actions are another step by management to enhance the capital structure, in our view, and should lead to lower interest costs and additional financial flexibility.

Details. Under the repricing, the annual interest margin was reduced by 50 basis points to 2.75%. Additionally, the 10-basis point credit spread adjustment was eliminated from the Company’s Secured Overnight Financing Rate, further improving the anticipated savings from the repricing. The company also extended the maturity of the loan by two years to December 2030.


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.