Category: Energy

Release – Hemisphere Energy Declares Special Dividend

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Research News and Market Data on HMENF

July 15, 2025 8:30 AM EDT | Source: Hemisphere Energy Corporation

Vancouver, British Columbia–(Newsfile Corp. – July 15, 2025) – Hemisphere Energy Corporation (TSXV: HME) (OTCQX: HMENF) (“Hemisphere” or the “Company”) is pleased to announce that its board of directors has approved the declaration of a special dividend to shareholders.

Special Dividend

Given the strong financial position and performance outlook of the Company, Hemisphere’s board of directors has approved the declaration of a special dividend of $0.03 per common share, in accordance with its dividend policy. The special dividend will be paid on August 15, 2025 to shareholders of record on July 31, 2025, and is designated as an eligible dividend for Canadian income tax purposes. It is in addition to the Company’s quarterly base dividend of $0.025 per common share and is the Company’s second special dividend payment in 2025.

Hemisphere remains committed to delivering value to its shareholders, having already returned a total of $12.2 million ($0.13 per common share) to date in 2025, including $4.5 million in share repurchases and cancellations under the Company’s normal course issuer bid, $4.8 million in quarterly dividend payments, and $2.9 million in special dividends. This return of capital is funded entirely by the Company’s free cash flow and is supported by Hemisphere’s high-margin enhanced oil recovery (“EOR”) assets, ultra-low production decline, and healthy balance sheet.

About Hemisphere Energy Corporation

Hemisphere is a dividend-paying Canadian oil company focused on maximizing value-per-share growth with the sustainable development of its high netback, ultra-low decline conventional heavy oil assets through polymer flood EOR methods. Hemisphere trades on the TSX Venture Exchange as a Tier 1 issuer under the symbol “HME” and on the OTCQX Venture Marketplace under the symbol “HMENF”.

For further information, please visit the Company’s website at www.hemisphereenergy.ca to view its corporate presentation or contact:

Don Simmons, President & Chief Executive Officer
Telephone: (604) 685-9255
Email: info@hemisphereenergy.ca

Website: www.hemisphereenergy.ca

Forward-looking Statements

Certain statements included in this news release constitute forward-looking statements or forward-looking information (collectively, “forward-looking statements”) within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. Forward-looking statements are typically identified by words such as “anticipate”, “continue”, “estimate”, “expect”, “forecast”, “may”, “will”, “project”, “could”, “plan”, “intend”, “should”, “believe”, “outlook”, “potential”, “target” and similar words suggesting future events or future performance. In particular, but without limiting the generality of the foregoing, this news release includes forward-looking statements including that a special dividend will be paid to shareholders on August 15, 2025 to shareholders of record on July 31, 2025 and the Company’s views of a strong performance outlook.

Forward‐looking statements are based on a number of material factors, expectations or assumptions of Hemisphere which have been used to develop such statements and information, but which may prove to be incorrect. Although Hemisphere believes that the expectations reflected in such forward‐looking statements or information are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on forward‐looking statements because Hemisphere can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. In addition to other factors and assumptions which may be identified herein, assumptions have been made regarding, among other things: the timing for payment of the special dividend; the general continuance of current industry conditions; the timely receipt of any required regulatory approvals; the ability of Hemisphere to obtain qualified staff, equipment and services in a timely and cost efficient manner; drilling results; the ability of the operator of the projects in which Hemisphere has an interest in to operate the field in a safe, efficient and effective manner; the ability of Hemisphere to obtain financing on acceptable terms; field production rates and decline rates; the ability to replace and expand oil and natural gas reserves through acquisition, development and exploration; the timing and cost of pipeline, storage and facility construction and expansion and the ability of Hemisphere to secure adequate product transportation; future commodity prices; currency, exchange and interest rates; regulatory framework regarding royalties, taxes and environmental matters in the jurisdictions in which Hemisphere operates; and the ability of Hemisphere to successfully market its oil and natural gas products.

The forward‐looking statements included in this news release are not guarantees of future performance and should not be unduly relied upon. Such information and statements, including the assumptions made in respect thereof, involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results or events to defer materially from those anticipated in such forward‐looking statements including, without limitation: changes in project timelines and workstreams; changes in commodity prices; changes in the demand for or supply of Hemisphere’s products, the early stage of development of some of the evaluated areas and zones; unanticipated operating results or production declines; changes in tax or environmental laws, royalty rates or other regulatory matters; changes in development plans of Hemisphere or by third party operators of Hemisphere’s properties, increased debt levels or debt service requirements; inaccurate estimation of Hemisphere’s oil and gas reserve volumes; limited, unfavourable or a lack of access to capital markets; increased costs; a lack of adequate insurance coverage; the impact of competitors; and certain other risks detailed from time‐to‐time in Hemisphere’s public disclosure documents, (including, without limitation, those risks identified in this news release and in Hemisphere’s Annual Information Form).

The forward‐looking statements contained in this news release speak only as of the date of this news release, and Hemisphere does not assume any obligation to publicly update or revise any of the included forward‐looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as may be required by applicable securities laws.

All dollar amounts are in Canadian dollars unless otherwise specified.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.

info

SOURCE: Hemisphere Energy Corporation

Release – Hemisphere Energy Announces Normal Course Issuer Bid Renewal

Posted on by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

Research News and Market Data on HMENF

July 08, 2025 5:42 PM EDT | Source: Hemisphere Energy Corporation

Vancouver, British Columbia–(Newsfile Corp. – July 8, 2025) – Hemisphere Energy Corporation (TSXV: HME) (OTCQX: HMENF) (“Hemisphere” or the “Company”) is pleased to announce that the TSX Venture Exchange (the “TSXV”) has accepted the Company’s Notice of Intention to renew of its Normal Course Issuer Bid (the “NCIB”) to purchase for cancellation, from time to time, as Hemisphere considers advisable, up to 7,934,731 common shares (“Common Shares”) of the Company, representing approximately 10% of the current “public float” of the Common Shares.

Purchases of Common Shares will be made on the open market through the facilities of the TSXV. For any Common Shares purchased, Hemisphere will pay the prevailing market price of the Common Shares. The actual number of Common Shares that may be purchased for cancellation and the timing of any such purchases will be determined by the Company and dependent on market conditions.

The Company is commencing the NCIB because it believes that, from time to time, the market price of its Common Shares may not properly reflect the underlying, intrinsic value of the Company, and that, at such times, the purchase of Common Shares for cancellation will increase the proportionate interest of, and be advantageous to, all remaining shareholders.

The NCIB will commence on July 14, 2025 and will terminate on July 13, 2026 or at such earlier time as the NCIB is completed or terminated at the option of Hemisphere. The Company has retained Canaccord Genuity Corp. as its broker to conduct the NCIB on its behalf.

Under the Company’s previous normal course issuer bid, the Company sought and received approval of the TSXV to purchase 8,255,766 Common Shares for the period from July 14, 2024 to July 13, 2025. During that period, the Company purchased 3,624,700 Common Shares on the open market at a weighted-average price of $1.793 per Common Share.

About Hemisphere Energy Corporation

Hemisphere is a dividend-paying Canadian oil company focused on maximizing value-per-share growth with the sustainable development of its high netback, ultra-low decline conventional heavy oil assets through polymer flood enhanced oil recovery methods. Hemisphere trades on the TSX Venture Exchange as a Tier 1 issuer under the symbol “HME” and on the OTCQX Venture Marketplace under the symbol “HMENF”.

For further information, please visit the Company’s website at www.hemisphereenergy.ca to view its corporate presentation or contact:

Don Simmons, President & Chief Executive Officer
Telephone: (604) 685-9255
Email: info@hemisphereenergy.ca

Website: www.hemisphereenergy.ca

Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements and Other Advisories

This document contains forward-looking information. This information relates to future events and the Company’s future performance. All information and statements contained herein that are not clearly historical in nature constitute forward-looking information, and the words “may”, “will”, “should”, “could”, “expect”, “plan”, “intend”, “anticipate”, “believe”, “estimate”, “propose”, “predict”, “potential”, “continue”, “aim”, or the negative of these terms or other comparable terminology are generally intended to identify forward-looking information. Such information represents the Company’s internal projections, estimates, expectations, beliefs, plans, objectives, assumptions, intentions or statements about future events or performance. This information involves known or unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results or events to differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking information. Hemisphere believes that the expectations reflected in this forward-looking information are reasonable; however, undue reliance should not be placed on this forward-looking information, as there can be no assurance that the plans, intentions or expectations upon which they are based will occur. This news release contains forward-looking information concerning, among other things, the timing of the NCIB, the anticipated advantages of the NCIB to Hemisphere’s shareholders and the Company’s business strategy, the price to be paid by Hemisphere for purchases of Common Shares under the NCIB and Hemisphere’s plans for maximizing value per share growth with the sustainable development of its high netback high netback, low decline conventional heavy oil assets through polymer flood enhanced recovery methods. The reader is cautioned that such information, although considered reasonable by the Company, may prove to be incorrect. A number of risks and other factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking information contained in this document including, but not limited to, the risk that the anticipated benefits of the NCIB may not be achieved and the risk that the Company may not be able to successfully execute its business strategy or growth plans. Readers are cautioned that the foregoing list of factors is not exhaustive. Although the forward-looking statements contained in this document are based upon assumptions which management of Hemisphere believes to be reasonable, Hemisphere cannot assure investors that actual results will be consistent with these forward-looking statements. With respect to forward-looking statements contained in this document, Hemisphere has made assumptions regarding, among other things, the ability of Hemisphere to fund purchases of Common Shares under the NCIB and its business strategy. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this document and Hemisphere disclaims any intent or obligation to update publicly any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise, other than as required by applicable securities laws.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.

info

SOURCE: Hemisphere Energy Corporation

Release – InPlay Oil Corp. Announces Annual Meeting Voting Results for Election of Directors

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InPlay Oil Logo (CNW Group/InPlay Oil Corp.)

Research News and Market Data on IPOOF

Jun 25, 2025, 21:34 ET

CALGARY, AB , June 25, 2025 /CNW/ – InPlay Oil Corp. (TSX: IPO) (OTCQX: IPOOF) (“InPlay” or the “Company”) announced today the voting results for the election of directors at its annual meeting of shareholders held on June 25, 2025 (the “Meeting”). The following eight nominees were elected as directors of InPlay to serve until the next annual meeting of shareholders or until their successors are elected or appointed, with common shares represented at the Meeting voting in favour of individual nominees as follows:

DirectorPercentage ApprovalPercentage Withheld
Douglas Bartole99.73 %0.27 %
Regan Davis99.64 %0.36 %
Joan Dunne94.73 %5.27 %
Craig Golinowski99.70 %0.30 %
Stephen Loukas92.94 %7.06 %
Stephen Nikiforuk94.71 %5.29 %
Peter Scott99.86 %0.14 %
Dale Shwed99.66 %0.34 %

In addition, all other resolutions presented at the Meeting were approved by InPlay’s shareholders, including the appointment of PriceWaterhouseCoopers LLP as auditors, InPlay’s restricted and performance award incentive plan and the settlement from treasury of incentive awards previously granted thereunder and the approval the unallocated options issuable under InPlay’s share option plan. For complete voting results, please see our Report of Voting Results which is available through SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

InPlay is based in Calgary, Alberta and the common shares of InPlay are traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the trading symbol “IPO”. For further information about InPlay, please visit our website at www.inplayoil.com.

SOURCE InPlay Oil Corp.

For further information please contact: Doug Bartole, President and Chief Executive Officer InPlay Oil Corp., Telephone: (587) 955-0632; Darren Dittmer, Chief Financial Officer InPlay Oil Corp., Telephone: (587) 955-0634

Oil Prices Fall Despite U.S.-Iran Strikes as Investors Discount Supply Threats

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

Oil prices tumbled over 3% on Monday despite rising geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, as investors appeared to discount the threat of immediate disruptions to global crude supplies following Iran’s missile strike on a U.S. airbase in Qatar.

U.S. crude futures dropped by $2.32, or 3.14%, to settle at $71.52 per barrel, while global benchmark Brent crude declined by $2.41, or 3.13%, to $74.60. The sell-off marked a sharp reversal from gains seen Sunday evening, when Brent briefly surged above $81 following news of U.S. airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities.

Iran’s Revolutionary Guard confirmed it had launched missiles at Al-Udeid Air Base in Qatar, home to U.S. and coalition forces. While no casualties or infrastructure damage were reported, the strike underscored the escalating tit-for-tat between Tehran and Washington.

Despite the headline risk, oil markets remained notably calm. “The market is pricing in a de-escalation path,” said Jorge Leon, head of geopolitical risk at Rystad Energy. “But the potential for things to unravel very quickly still exists.”

President Donald Trump, meanwhile, took to social media to urge for lower oil prices, telling “everyone” — likely including domestic producers — to help keep prices in check. The president’s comments reflect his administration’s concern over inflation ahead of the November election.

Geopolitical Flashpoint: Strait of Hormuz

The key long-term risk remains Iran’s threat to close the Strait of Hormuz, through which nearly 20% of the world’s oil passes daily. Iranian state media reported that parliament supported shutting down the vital waterway, although the final decision lies with Iran’s national security council.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned that such a move would be “economic suicide” for Iran, noting that the Islamic Republic relies on the strait for its own oil exports. “We retain options to deal with that,” Rubio said, hinting at potential multilateral military responses.

Rubio also urged China, Iran’s top oil customer, to use its influence to dissuade Tehran from taking further steps that could disrupt regional stability. “About half of China’s seaborne oil comes through that corridor,” he said.

Market Psychology: Risk vs. Supply

Despite the barrage of developments, investors seem confident that major disruptions to supply remain unlikely in the short term. Iran continues to export nearly 1.84 million barrels per day, largely to China, and major production hubs remain operational.

Memories of 2019 — when Iranian-linked groups targeted Saudi oil facilities — and the subsequent quick recovery, may also be tempering investor anxiety. Additionally, diplomatic overtures between Iran and Saudi Arabia are viewed as a stabilizing factor in an otherwise volatile region.

The International Energy Agency (IEA) said it is closely monitoring the situation and is prepared to release strategic reserves if necessary. The IEA currently holds 1.2 billion barrels in emergency stockpiles.

For now, oil prices may remain rangebound as investors weigh the potential for further escalation against the apparent reluctance from both sides to push the conflict to extremes.

Solar Stocks Plunge as Senate Seeks Early End to Key Green Energy Tax Credits

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

Solar energy companies saw their stocks tumble on Tuesday following a draft Senate proposal that would accelerate the expiration of wind and solar tax credits—years ahead of the current schedule. The news has rattled investors and sent shockwaves through the renewable energy sector, raising fears of layoffs, bankruptcies, and a major disruption in project development.

Shares of Sunrun (RUN), the largest residential solar installer in the United States, collapsed over 40%, while SolarEdge Technologies (SEDG) plummeted more than 30%, and Enphase Energy (ENPH) fell nearly 25%. These losses came amid broader market gains, highlighting the severity of the impact specific to clean energy firms.

The Senate’s version of the Trump administration’s new tax bill proposes sunsetting tax incentives for wind and solar by 2028, four years earlier than under current law, which sets the expiration for 2032. Notably, the bill preserves tax breaks for other energy sources—such as hydropower, geothermal, and nuclear—through 2036, raising concerns about an uneven playing field.

The proposal caught investors off guard, especially after recent lobbying efforts suggested that the Senate might resist the aggressive clean energy rollbacks passed by the House in May. Instead, the Senate draft goes even further in some areas, phasing down incentives as early as 2026.

While the bill does include a provision allowing the residential solar credit to expire 180 days after enactment rather than at the end of 2025, analysts say the adjustment is too minor to ease investor fears.

Some early fallout is already visible. Solar financing firm Mosaic recently filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, and residential solar provider Sunnova Energy (NOVA) has begun restructuring efforts. Analysts expect more turbulence ahead if the bill is passed in its current form.

The sector has faced multiple headwinds in 2025, including high interest rates that make financing large-scale projects more expensive. President Trump’s return to office has also stoked concerns, with his administration pivoting sharply away from green initiatives and leaning into fossil fuel policies.

Still, not all recent policy news has been negative. The Department of Commerce recently announced tariffs exceeding 3,500% on solar panel imports from Southeast Asian countries—a move designed to bolster domestic manufacturing. However, these protectionist policies may not be enough to offset the demand shock from reduced federal support.

Despite a brief rally earlier this year driven by hopes for bipartisan support of clean energy, the Invesco Solar ETF (TAN) is now down more than 4% year to date, underscoring the sector’s fragility.

As the tax bill moves forward, investors and industry leaders will be watching closely. Without significant changes, the proposed legislation could mark a dramatic shift in the trajectory of America’s clean energy ambitions.

Oil Prices Surge on Geopolitical Tensions and Supply Uncertainty

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com
Key Points:
– Oil prices jumped over 4% after reports of a partial U.S. embassy evacuation in Iraq raised geopolitical concerns.
– Additional support came from President Trump’s doubts over a nuclear deal with Iran, potentially limiting future oil supply.
– A breakthrough in U.S.-China trade talks also boosted sentiment, helping crude extend its recent rally.

Crude oil prices soared on Wednesday, climbing more than 4% amid escalating geopolitical tensions and renewed concerns over global supply disruptions. The sharp move followed reports that the U.S. embassy in Baghdad is preparing for a partial evacuation due to rising security threats.

West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures closed at $68.15 per barrel, up 4.5%, while Brent crude, the global benchmark, settled at $69.77, a gain of 4%. The rally reflects growing unease in energy markets over the stability of the Middle East, a region critical to global oil production and transportation.

The price spike was triggered by a Reuters report indicating that U.S. and Iraqi officials are coordinating plans for an “ordered departure” of embassy personnel in Iraq. The development comes amid mounting threats in the region, raising fears that oil infrastructure or transportation routes could be impacted if tensions escalate further.

In addition to the embassy-related concerns, oil prices were also supported by comments from President Donald Trump, who expressed skepticism over the prospects of reaching a new nuclear agreement with Iran — a major oil-producing nation. Speaking during a podcast, Trump said his confidence in a deal had “diminished,” casting doubt on the potential return of sanctioned Iranian barrels to the market.

Oil prices found further support from signs of easing trade tensions between the U.S. and China. Following high-level discussions in London, both nations reportedly agreed to a framework aimed at reducing tariffs and improving trade flows. President Trump hinted that a formal agreement could be imminent, pending final approval from Chinese President Xi Jinping.

The latest surge adds to a month-long recovery in oil prices, which have rebounded from a sharp sell-off in April driven by global economic concerns and softer demand projections. Despite the rebound, both WTI and Brent remain down year-to-date, reflecting the broader market’s caution around demand durability and geopolitical risk.

Analysts are closely watching developments in the Middle East and diplomatic signals from Washington and Beijing, noting that any further escalation or policy shifts could significantly impact global supply dynamics in the weeks ahead

Chart Industries and Flowserve Merge to Create $19 Billion Industrial Tech Powerhouse

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

In a strategic move set to reshape the industrial process technology sector, Chart Industries and Flowserve Corporation announced on June 4, 2025, that they will merge in an all-stock transaction, forming a combined company valued at approximately $19 billion. This merger of equals brings together two highly complementary businesses to create a global leader in flow and thermal management solutions.

The newly combined entity will boast an extensive installed base of over 5.5 million assets across more than 50 countries, offering a comprehensive platform that spans the full customer lifecycle—from process design to mission-critical equipment, aftermarket support, and digital monitoring solutions. With combined last twelve months (LTM) revenue of $8.8 billion, the new company is set to make a significant impact across a wide array of high-growth industries, including energy, power generation, chemical processing, data centers, and carbon capture.

At the heart of this merger is a shared commitment to delivering world-class technologies and services. Chart’s expertise in cryogenic, thermal, and specialty solutions blends seamlessly with Flowserve’s core strengths in flow management, including pumps, valves, and seals. This merger creates a differentiated industrial technology platform that is expected to enhance performance, increase predictability through market cycles, and expand customer reach globally.

A major benefit of the transaction is the expansion of aftermarket services, which will now account for roughly $3.7 billion annually, or 42% of total revenue. This significant recurring revenue stream positions the company for stable cash flow and long-term growth. Further, the merger is expected to generate approximately $300 million in annual cost synergies within three years, driven by procurement efficiencies, facility consolidations, and operational streamlining. On top of that, incremental revenue synergies of at least 2% are anticipated over time.

The transaction has been unanimously approved by both boards of directors. Upon completion, Chart shareholders will own 53.5% and Flowserve shareholders will own 46.5% of the combined company. Jill Evanko, current CEO of Chart, will serve as Chair of the Board, while Scott Rowe, CEO of Flowserve, will become the Chief Executive Officer. The board will be evenly split, with six directors from each company.

Financially, the combined company will aim to maintain an investment-grade balance sheet with a leverage ratio of 2.0x net debt to adjusted EBITDA at closing. The firm expects strong cash generation, supporting growth initiatives, debt reduction, and a continued shareholder dividend.

Headquartered in Dallas, Texas, with continued operations in Atlanta and Houston, the new company is poised to become a global industrial technology giant. A new brand identity will be unveiled upon closing, which is expected by Q4 2025, pending shareholder and regulatory approvals.

This transformative merger marks a significant step forward in innovation, scale, and service within the industrial process sector, positioning the company to capitalize on growing demand for integrated and sustainable technologies worldwide.

Meta Commits to Nuclear Energy with Landmark 20-Year Deal

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com
Key Points:
– Meta signs 20-year deal for 1.1 GW of nuclear power from Clinton Clean Energy Center.
– Supports grid stability and emissions goals, keeping the Illinois plant from closing.
– Part of broader tech shift toward nuclear as AI and data center power demands grow.

Meta has taken a major step toward securing its clean energy future with the announcement of a 20-year agreement to purchase nuclear power from Constellation Energy. Beginning in 2027, the tech giant will buy approximately 1.1 gigawatts of electricity annually from the Clinton Clean Energy Center in Illinois—effectively the full output of the plant’s sole nuclear reactor.

This long-term deal highlights the increasing role of nuclear power in the digital economy, as energy-intensive data centers drive up electricity demand. For Meta, which has pledged to power its operations with 100% clean energy, the agreement is a crucial move to ensure long-term, zero-emission power availability.

The Clinton Clean Energy Center has faced financial uncertainty in recent years. It has operated with the support of zero-emissions credits since 2017, which recently expired. Without a new revenue source, the facility was at risk of early retirement. Meta’s commitment not only guarantees the plant’s continued operation but also supports its potential relicensing and even a modest expansion of its output by 30 megawatts.

While the electricity generated at Clinton will not directly power Meta’s data centers, the deal helps ensure a consistent flow of clean energy to the regional grid. In turn, this strengthens the broader power infrastructure that supports Meta’s energy goals.

This marks Meta’s first official investment in nuclear energy and comes amid a broader trend of tech companies aligning with the nuclear sector. In recent months, Microsoft agreed to buy power from a restarted reactor at Three Mile Island, and Amazon has poured over $500 million into the development of small modular reactors (SMRs). Google is also investing in new nuclear projects and advanced reactor developers.

All three tech giants—Meta, Google, and Amazon—signed a pledge earlier this year calling for a global tripling of nuclear energy production by 2050. The pledge reflects growing consensus in the tech world that nuclear power is essential for achieving deep decarbonization while meeting soaring energy demand.

This partnership also comes as the U.S. government accelerates support for nuclear expansion. President Trump recently signed a series of executive orders aimed at reducing regulatory barriers and developing a domestic supply chain for nuclear fuel. These actions are intended to pave the way for faster deployment of advanced reactors, especially SMRs, which are seen as more scalable and cost-effective than traditional nuclear facilities.

Although Meta’s current agreement focuses on a legacy reactor, the company has signaled strong interest in the next generation of nuclear technology. In December, it issued a request for proposals from developers of advanced nuclear projects, seeking to add between one and four gigawatts of new capacity in the U.S. That process is still underway and represents Meta’s broader ambition to shape the future of clean, reliable power.

Constellation, meanwhile, has hinted that it may pursue a new permit to build an SMR at the Clinton site, signaling long-term potential for growth and innovation at the facility.

Zeo Energy to Acquire Heliogen, Forming a Comprehensive Clean Energy Platform

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com
Key Points:
– Zeo to acquire Heliogen in an all-stock deal, expanding its clean energy reach.
– Adds long-duration storage, targeting sectors like data centers and AI.
– Boosts efficiency and financing for large-scale energy projects.

In a move that underscores the accelerating convergence of solar energy and long-duration storage solutions, Zeo Energy Corp. (Nasdaq: ZEO) has announced its acquisition of Heliogen, Inc. (OTCQX: HLGN) in an all-stock transaction valued at approximately $10 million. The deal aims to create a unified clean energy platform that serves residential, commercial, and utility-scale markets across the U.S. and beyond.

Zeo Energy, a Florida-based provider of residential solar and energy efficiency services, will integrate Heliogen’s advanced storage technologies to expand into commercial and industrial-scale clean energy applications. These include mission-critical sectors such as data centers, AI infrastructure, and cloud computing facilities—markets increasingly in need of reliable, scalable, and cost-effective energy solutions.

The acquisition represents the outcome of Heliogen’s comprehensive strategic alternatives review and is expected to close in the third quarter of 2025, pending regulatory and shareholder approvals. With the deal’s completion, Heliogen’s shareholders will receive Zeo Class A common stock and the combined entity will retain key technical personnel to drive innovation across new market segments.

This transaction marks a strategic pivot for Zeo, positioning it as a more vertically integrated energy provider with diversified revenue streams and operational reach. The company expects to streamline corporate overhead, broaden its market appeal, and strengthen its balance sheet with the addition of Heliogen’s intellectual property and cash reserves.

Zeo also plans to leverage its affiliated financing arm—responsible for over $44 million in clean energy tax equity financing to date—to support future utility-scale and long-duration projects. This added financing capacity may be particularly beneficial as demand surges for low-carbon infrastructure driven by policy incentives, energy cost volatility, and technological adoption.

For investors, the combined company represents a multi-faceted play on the growing shift toward decarbonization and distributed energy. While Zeo brings an established presence in high-growth residential markets, Heliogen offers utility-grade thermal storage and dispatchable energy systems that address one of the most critical gaps in the clean energy transition: 24/7 reliability.

Both boards have unanimously approved the transaction, and early support from a significant portion of Heliogen’s shareholders has added momentum to the closing process. Once finalized, the deal is expected to create a scalable clean energy company well-positioned to meet rising demand across a broad spectrum of energy users.

As the energy landscape continues to evolve, the Zeo–Heliogen merger reflects a broader industry trend toward integrated platforms capable of delivering end-to-end clean energy solutions—from rooftop solar panels to large-scale grid storage.

Oil Prices Climb Amid Geopolitical Uncertainty and Sanction Risks

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com
Key Points:
– Oil rises on U.S.-Iran tensions and Russia sanctions threat.
– OPEC+ holds steady but may boost output in July.
– Prices stay volatile amid supply risks and demand concerns

Oil prices edged higher Wednesday as traders reacted to a flurry of geopolitical developments that could disrupt supplies from two of the world’s key producers: Russia and Iran.

West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude rose by 1.6%, settling just below $62 a barrel. The gains came as U.S. President Donald Trump warned that Russian President Vladimir Putin was “playing with fire” following a recent escalation of attacks in Ukraine. The remarks have fueled speculation that Washington could impose fresh sanctions on Russia’s energy sector — a move that would likely reduce Russian oil exports and tighten global supply.

Earlier this year, similar sanctions helped push crude prices above $80 per barrel before prices retreated amid growing fears of oversupply and global economic uncertainty. Although talks between Russia and Ukraine are scheduled to resume in Istanbul on June 2, markets remain on edge over the potential fallout of continued conflict.

Adding to the market tension is mounting uncertainty over Iran’s nuclear program. According to The New York Times, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has threatened military action that could target Tehran’s nuclear infrastructure, potentially derailing ongoing negotiations between Iran and the United States. A breakdown in talks could further hinder Iran’s ability to export oil, tightening the global supply picture.

Still, market optimism is tempered by bearish pressures, particularly around the role of the OPEC+ alliance. On Wednesday, the group ratified its existing production quotas through the end of next year, even as eight key member countries prepare for another round of discussions this weekend. Insiders say some members are pushing for a third consecutive monthly production hike starting in July.

“The early confirmation of quotas puts added pressure on this weekend’s decision,” said Robert Yawger, director of energy futures at Mizuho Securities USA. “The market is essentially at the mercy of OPEC on Saturday.”

Rising output from OPEC+ — particularly from members reviving previously idled capacity — has stoked concerns about oversupply. Some segments of the Brent futures curve have flipped into contango, a market condition where future prices are higher than current prices, signaling a supply glut.

Despite the recent uptick, oil prices have trended downward since mid-January, weighed down by global trade tensions, including sweeping tariffs introduced by the Trump administration and retaliatory measures from affected countries. These trade frictions have stoked fears of slower economic growth and weaker demand for fuel.

However, with tentative signs of easing trade disputes and renewed geopolitical risk in oil-producing regions, analysts say the next few weeks will be crucial in determining the market’s direction.

“Oil is being pulled in opposite directions,” said one market strategist. “If sanctions tighten and diplomacy falters, prices could surge. But if OPEC turns on the taps and global growth stalls, we could be looking at a very different scenario.”

Graham (GHM) – Awarded Large Follow-on Contract

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com


Wednesday, May 28, 2025

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.

Hans Baldau, Associate Analyst, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

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

New Award. Yesterday, Graham announced that its Barber-Nichols subsidiary was awarded a $136.5 million follow-on contract to support the U.S. Navy’s Virginia Class Submarine program. This new award strengthens Graham’s position as a critical supplier to the U.S. Navy’s undersea programs.

Details. The contract period of performance extends from April 2025 through February 2034. Graham recognized approximately $50 million in backlog from the contract during the fourth quarter of the fiscal year ended March 31, 2025 to procure long-lead-time materials. As a reminder, the backlog at the end of the fiscal third quarter totaled $384.7 million, just below a record high.


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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. 

Oil Prices Rise Slightly as U.S.-Iran Nuclear Talks Stall and Geopolitical Tensions Mount

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com
Key Points:
– Oil inches up as U.S.-Iran nuclear talks stall without resolution.
– Geopolitical risks and strong U.S. data support prices amid market fears.
– Bearish sentiment persists due to OPEC+ supply hikes and rising U.S. stockpiles.

Oil prices edged higher this week as U.S.-Iran nuclear negotiations failed to deliver significant progress, deepening market uncertainty and raising concerns over potential disruptions in global supply. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude hovered near $61 a barrel following a fifth round of talks in Rome, where both sides reported “some but not conclusive progress.”

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi acknowledged that while talks had moved forward, critical issues remain unresolved. The lack of a breakthrough is fueling doubts about whether Iranian crude will re-enter the market anytime soon. Traders are watching closely, as failed negotiations could restrict supply from the OPEC member and tighten global markets.

Geopolitical tension is further intensifying sentiment. Reports from U.S. intelligence suggesting that Israel may be preparing to strike Iranian nuclear facilities have added to anxiety in the energy sector. While Iranian officials indicated that a deal limiting nuclear weapons development might be possible, Tehran remains firm on continuing uranium enrichment—an issue that could derail diplomacy.

Meanwhile, strong U.S. economic data helped buoy prices after a brief dip triggered by fresh tariff threats from former President Donald Trump. In a social media post, Trump criticized the European Union as “very difficult to deal with” and suggested a sweeping 50% tariff on EU imports starting June 1. The rhetoric briefly shook markets, but solid U.S. consumer and industrial data helped counterbalance demand fears.

Despite the recent uptick, oil’s broader outlook remains bearish. Crude prices are down about 14% year-to-date, recently touching lows not seen since 2021. A faster-than-anticipated easing of production limits by OPEC+ and rising U.S. commercial oil stockpiles have both added to concerns about oversupply.

Energy strategist Jens Naervig Pedersen from Danske Bank emphasized that bearish sentiment persists. He cited ongoing output hikes by OPEC+, lackluster progress in both trade and nuclear talks, and the possibility of sanctions relief for Iran as factors undermining oil prices.

Looking ahead, a virtual meeting of key OPEC+ producers, including Saudi Arabia, is set for June 1 to decide on output levels for July. Most analysts surveyed by Bloomberg anticipate a continued rise in production, which could further pressure prices.

Adding another wrinkle, the European Commission is proposing to lower the price cap on Russian oil to $50 a barrel. Currently set at $60, the cap was designed to punish Russia for its war in Ukraine while keeping oil flowing. With prices already low, the existing ceiling is seen as ineffective.

In summary, oil is caught in a tug-of-war between geopolitical risk and structural oversupply. Unless a clear resolution emerges in U.S.-Iran talks or OPEC+ shifts its stance on production, the market may remain volatile with a downward bias.

Hemisphere Energy (HMENF) – Strong Start to the Year

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com


Friday, May 23, 2025

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

Hans Baldau, Associate Analyst, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

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

First quarter financial results. Hemisphere generated first quarter oil and gas revenue of C$27.3 million, an increase of 30.4% year-over-year, and above our estimate of C$24.4 million. Net income amounted to C$8.9 million or C$0.09 per share compared to C$6.8 million or C$0.07 per share during the prior year period and our estimates of C$8.2 million or C$0.08 per share. The strong earnings were reflective of a 22.3% year-over-year increase in production to 3,833 barrels of oil equivalent per day (boe/d) from 3,133 boe/d, along with better-than-expected commodity pricing due to the company’s strategic hedging. Adjusted funds flow (AFF) amounted to C$12.7 million or C$0.13 per diluted share compared to C$10.1 million or C$0.10 per diluted share during the prior year period. We had forecasted AFF of C$11.2 million.

Updating estimates. Based on first quarter results and management’s production guidance of 3,800 boe/d for the second quarter, we are raising our 2025 revenue estimates to C$98.2 million from C$94.8 million. We have modestly increased our operating expense estimate to C$38.4 million from C$37.6 million. Additionally, we are raising our net income and earnings per share (EPS) estimates to C$31.3 million and C$0.30, from C$30.3 million and C$0.29. We expect full year 2025 AFF of C$44.7 million, up from our previous estimate of C$43.0 million.


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.