Category:

Why Central Banks Will Choose Recession Over Inflation

Posted on by phoffman@channelchek.com
Image Credit: Focal Foto (Flickr)

The Difficult Reality of Rising Core and Super-Core Inflation

While many market participants are concerned about rate increases, they appear to be ignoring the largest risk: the potential for a massive liquidity drain in 2023.

Even though December is here, central banks’ balance sheets have hardly, if at all, decreased. Rather than real sales, a weaker currency and the price of the accumulated bonds account for the majority of the fall in the balance sheets of the major central banks.

In the context of governments deficits that are hardly declining and, in some cases, increasing, investors must take into account the danger of a significant reduction in the balance sheets of central banks. Both the quantitative tightening of central banks and the refinancing of government deficits, albeit at higher costs, will drain liquidity from the markets. This inevitably causes the global liquidity spectrum to contract far more than the headline amount.

Liquidity drains have a dividing effect in the same way that liquidity injections have an obvious multiplier effect in the transmission mechanism of monetary policy. A central bank’s balance sheet increased by one unit of currency in assets multiplies at least five times in the transmission mechanism. Do the calculations now on the way out, but keep in mind that government expenditure will be financed.

Our tendency is to take liquidity for granted. Due to the FOMO (fear of missing out) mentality, investors have increased their risk and added illiquid assets over the years of monetary expansion. In periods of monetary excess, multiple expansion and rising valuations are the norm.

Since we could always count on rising liquidity, when asset prices corrected over the past two decades, the best course of action was to “buy the dip” and double down. This was because central banks would keep growing their balance sheets and adding liquidity, saving us from almost any bad investment decision, and inflation would stay low.

Twenty years of a dangerous bet: monetary expansion without inflation. How do we handle a situation where central banks must cut at least $5 trillion off their balance sheets? Do not believe I am exaggerating; the $20 trillion bubble generated since 2008 cannot be solved with $5 trillion. A tightening of $5 trillion in US dollars is mild, even dovish. To return to pre-2020 levels, the Fed would need to decrease its balance sheet by that much on its own.

Keep in mind that the central banks of developed economies need to tighten monetary policy by $5 trillion, which is added to over $2.50 trillion in public deficit financing in the same countries.

The effects of contraction are difficult to forecast because traders for at least two generations have only experienced expansionary policies, but they are undoubtedly unpleasant. Liquidity is already dwindling in the riskiest sectors of the economy, from high yield to crypto assets. By 2023, when the tightening truly begins, it will probably have reached the supposedly safer assets.

In a recent interview, Bundesbank President Joachim Nagel said that the ECB will begin to reduce its balance sheet in 2023 and added that “a recession may be insufficient to get inflation back on target.” This suggests that the “anti-fragmentation tool” currently in use to mask risk in periphery bonds may begin to lose its placebo impact on sovereign assets. Additionally, the cost of equity and weighted average cost of capital increases as soon as sovereign bond spreads begin to rise.

Capital can only be made or destroyed; it never remains constant. And if central banks are to effectively fight inflation, capital destruction is unavoidable.

The prevalent bullish claim is that because central banks have learned from 2008, they will not dare to allow the market to crash. Although a correct analysis, it is not enough to justify market multiples. The fact that governments continue to finance themselves, which they will, is ultimately what counts to central banks. The crowding out effect of government spending over private sector credit access has never been a major concern for a central bank. Keep in mind that I am only estimating a $5 trillion unwind, which is quite generous given the excess produced between 2008 and 2021 and the magnitude of the balance sheet increase in 2020–21.

Central banks are also aware of the worst-case scenario, which is elevated inflation and a recession that could have a prolonged impact on citizens, with rising discontent and generalized impoverishment. They know they cannot keep inflation high just to satisfy market expectations of rising valuations. The same central banks that assert that the wealth effect multiplies positively are aware of the disastrous consequences of ignoring inflation. Back to the 1970s.

The “energy excuse” in inflation estimates will likely evaporate, and that will be the key test for central banks. The “supply chain excuse” has disappeared, the “temporary excuse” has gotten stale, and the “energy excuse” has lost some of its credibility since June. The unattractive reality of rising core and super-core inflation has been exposed by the recent commodity slump.

Central banks cannot accept sustained inflation because it means they would have failed in their mandate. Few can accurately foresee how quantitative tightening will affect asset prices and credit availability, even though it is necessary. What we know is that quantitative tightening, with a minimal decrease in central bank balance sheets, is expected to compress multiples and valuations of risky assets more than it has thus far. Given that capital destruction appears to be only getting started, the dividing effect is probably more than anticipated. And the real economy is always impacted by capital destruction

About the Author

Daniel Lacalle, PhD, economist and fund manager, is the author of the bestselling books Freedom or Equality (2020),Escape from the Central Bank Trap (2017), The Energy World Is Flat (2015), and Life in the Financial Markets (2014).

Daniel Lacalle is a professor of global economy at IE Business School in Madrid.

Russia-Related Supply Issues Delay Gates/Buffett Nuclear Plant

Posted on by phoffman@channelchek.com
Image: Rendering of Natrium Reactor (TerraPower)

Nuclear Power Plant Start Will be Delayed as Reliable US Fuel Production Needs to Improve

The energy and fuel shortages stemming from the Russia/Ukraine war extend beyond oil and gas. A sharp impact is also being felt in the nuclear energy world as uranium is less available for new and existing plants. In the US, TerraPower’s natrium reactor completion date is now estimated at least two years beyond the original plan. This is because of problems securing the proper fuel. TerraPower is a start-up co-founded by Bill Gates with support from Warren Buffett to revolutionize nuclear reactor design and methods. The natrium reactor being built as a test of the technology is being built in  Kemmerer, Wyoming, which is considered a coal town. The original completion date was 2028.

 What is Now Expected

The company expects the natrium demonstration reactor operation to be delayed by at least two years because there will not be sufficient commercial capacity to produce high-assay low-enriched uranium fuel to test come the original 2028 in-service date.

TerraPower’s CEO and President Chris Levesque said Russia’s invasion of Ukraine earlier this year caused “the only commercial source of HALEU fuel” to no longer be a viable part of the supply chain. The company is now working with the US Department of Energy (DOE), Congress, and project stakeholders to explore potential alternative sources. Levesque said, “while we are working now with Congress to urge the inclusion of $2.1 billion to support HALEU in the end-of-year government funding package, it has become clear that domestic and allied HALEU manufacturing options will not reach commercial capacity in time to meet the proposed 2028 in-service date for the Natrium demonstration plant.”

The company has not provided a new schedule but expects to in 2023, when there may be more clarity of what will be available and when. “But given the lack of fuel availability now and that there has been no construction started on new fuel enrichment facilities, TerraPower is anticipating a minimum of a two-year delay to being able to bring the Natrium reactor into operation,” Levesque warned.

About the Plant and its Fuel

Kemmerer in Wyoming was selected in 2021 as the preferred site for the Natrium demonstration project, featuring a 345 MWe sodium-cooled fast reactor with a molten salt-based energy storage system. TerraPower remains fully committed to the project and is “moving full steam ahead” on the construction of the plant, licensing applications and engineering and design work, Levesque added. Work scheduled to begin in Spring 2023 on the large sodium facility will continue as planned, and TerraPower expects “minimal disruption” to the current projected start-of-construction date.

HALEU fuel is enriched to between 5% and 20% uranium-235, and is the fuel type which will fuel most of the next-generation reactor designs. The DOE has projected a national need for more than 40 tonnes of HALEU before the end of the decade to support the current administration’s goal of 100% clean electricity by 2035.

Funding the Construction

Gates helped found TerraPower in 2006 and has been the company’s chairman. TerraPower’s goal is to provide more affordable, secure, and environmentally friendly nuclear energy globally. The plant is expected to cost $4 billion. To date, $1.6 billion has been appropriated by Congress, and private funding of $830 has been raised by TerraPower.

Wyoming US Senator John Barrasso responded to the announcement saying the US  ” must reestablish itself as the global leader in nuclear energy. Instead of relying on our adversaries like Russia for uranium, the United States must produce its own supply of advanced nuclear fuel.” He said he has sent a letter to Energy and Natural Resources Chairman Joe Manchin requesting an oversight hearing early next year to ensure that DOE is “working aggressively” to make HALEU available for the USA’s first advanced reactors. He also said he has written to Secretary of Energy Jennifer Granholm today “blasting DOE for not moving fast enough to ensure a domestic supply of HALEU”.

Take Away

The Natrium project by Bill Gate’s company, with support from US tax dollars and Warren Buffett, is being constructed as a test. One thing the test bore out is that securing a reliable fuel supply needs a good deal more work.

Natrium plants are smaller and use current technology. These plants are expected to be built faster and cheaper than a traditional large-scale nuclear power plant. When first announced last year, Gates and Buffett said that once successfully demonstrated, the plant could be quickly expanded or replicated elsewhere.

Paul Hoffman

Managing Editor, Channelchek

Sources

https://natriumpower.com/

https://www.world-nuclear-news.org/Articles/HALEU-fuel-availability-delays-Natrium-reactor-pro

https://www.cnbc.com/2021/11/17/bill-gates-terrapower-builds-its-first-nuclear-reactor-in-a-coal-town.html

The Week Ahead – Window Dressing, FedEx Earnings, and Consumer Confidence

Posted on by phoffman@channelchek.com

The Holiday Weeks Ahead are Likely to Include Lighter Trading Volumes

End-of-year window dressing occurs when mutual funds and other managed money sell their losing stocks before December 31 to avoid sitting in front of trustees early in the new year and having these stocks still listed as holdings. This often has the effect of concentrating end-of-year selling in stocks that are already the worst performers over the ending year. These same stocks are then favored early in the new year. Keep in mind some of this money may temporarily move to the fixed-income markets. Volume for the next two holiday weeks is typically lighter than usual.

Speaking of bad-performing stocks, FedEx reports earnings on Tuesday, December 20 (4:30). If you recall, they last reported on September 15 and missed expected earnings. That earnings call caused the stock to move from $204 to $161 during the following trading session. FedEx earnings will be of particular interest for this reason and because it’s an early indicator of this holiday shopping season.

It’s a light week for economic numbers; those that have the strongest possibility of moving markets occur on Wednesday’s Consumer Confidence and Friday’s Durable Goods data. Friday is a regular trading day for the stock exchanges, the bond markets enjoy an early 2 PM close.

Monday 12/19

• 10:00 AM ET, the Housing Market Index is expected to show a 34, according to Econoday’s consensus numbers. This would halt the downward spiral of this measure. Last month the reading was 33.

Tuesday 12/20

• 8:30 AM ET, Housing Starts and Permits are expected to be 1.4 million from the previous 1.425 million. Residential construction has been slowing and slowing significantly.

Wednesday 12/21

• 8:30 AM ET, The third-quarter current account deficit is expected to narrow to $225.0 versus the $251.1 billion reported in the second quarter. The current account is a quarterly measure of the U.S. international balance in goods and services trade as well as unilateral transfers.

• 10:00 AM ET, Consumer Confidence is expected to edge higher to a marginally less depressed 101.0 versus November’s 100.2. Trends in consumer attitudes and spending can be one of the most impactful influences on the stock market. This is because strong economic growth translates to healthy corporate profits and higher stock prices.

Thursday 12/22

• 8:30 AM ET, Gross Domestic Product (GDP) third estimate for the third quarter is not expected to change at all from the previous estimate of 2.9%. This is the final read from the third quarter, it indicates we were not in a recession and instead had better growth than the first two quarters.

Friday 12/23

• 8:30 AM ET, Forecasters expect Durable Goods Orders to fall 0.7 percent in November following a 1.1 percent rise in October. This is a true leading indicator as orders for durable goods show how active factories will be in the months to come as manufacturers fill those orders. The data not only provide insight to demand items such as refrigerators and cars but also business investments such as industrial machinery, electrical machinery, and computers. So it may also indicate how confident the industry is for a period into the future.

What Else

Were you able to watch the equity analysts from Noble Capital Markets discuss stocks within their areas of expertise on Wall Street Wish List aired last Thursday through Channelchek? A replay may become available this week for those that wish to rewatch or those that prefer to digest all the information in smaller bites. Those signed up for emails from Channelchek will be given a heads-up when this replay happens.

Happy Hanukkah, Merry Christmas, and peace to all from the entire content team at Channelchek!

Paul Hoffman

Managing Editor, Channelchek

Release – Travelzoo Provides Updated Revenue Guidance for Q4 2022

Posted on by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

Research, News, and Market Data on TZOO

12/16/2022

NEW YORK, December 16, 2022 — Travelzoo® (NASDAQ: TZOO), a global Internet media company that provides exclusive offers and experiences for members, updates its guidance for the current quarter ending December 31, 2022, as follows: For Q4 2022, we expect substantially higher revenue of approx. $18.5 million, up 31% year-over-year.

Travelzoo provides this update to clarify that its revenue trend is different from travel suppliers or online travel agencies. As a media and membership business, Travelzoo is benefiting from demand for travel weakening from the heights of the post-pandemic pent-up demand. Travel suppliers are increasingly in need again to promote their offers to Travelzoo members.

Holger Bartel, Global CEO, said: “We have more and better offers for our members again, and revenue growth is accelerating.”

About Travelzoo
Travelzoo® provides its 30 million members with exclusive offers and one-of-a-kind experiences personally reviewed by our deal experts around the globe. We have our finger on the pulse of outstanding travel, entertainment, and lifestyle experiences. We work in partnership with more than 5,000 top travel suppliers—our long-standing relationships give Travelzoo members access to irresistible deals.

Certain statements contained in this press release that are not historical facts may be forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934. These forward-looking statements may include, but are not limited to, statements about our plans, objectives, expectations, prospects and intentions, markets in which we participate and other statements contained in this press release that are not historical facts. When used in this press release, the words “expect”, “predict”, “project”, “anticipate”, “believe”, “estimate”, “intend”, “plan”, “seek” and similar expressions are generally intended to identify forward-looking statements. Because these forwardlooking statements involve risks and uncertainties, there are important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements, including changes in our plans, objectives, expectations, prospects and intentions and other factors discussed in our filings with the SEC. We cannot guarantee any future levels of activity, performance or achievements. Travelzoo undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances occurring after the date of this press release.

Travelzoo is a registered trademark of Travelzoo.

Release – Digerati Technologies Reports 115% Revenue Growth to $8.1 Million for First Quarter FY2023

Posted on by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

Research, News, and Market Data on DTGI

December 16, 2022 09:05 ET | Source: Digerati Technologies

– Non-GAAP Adjusted Operating EBITDA of $1.3 Million –
– Merger with MEOA SPAC Targeted to Close in First Quarter Calendar 2023 –

SAN ANTONIO, Dec. 16, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Digerati Technologies, Inc. (OTCQB: DTGI) (“Digerati” or the “Company”), a provider of cloud services specializing in UCaaS (Unified Communications as a Service) solutions for the small to medium-sized business (“SMB”) market, announced today financial results for the three months ended October 31, 2022, the Company’s first quarter for its Fiscal Year 2023.

Key Financial Highlights for the First Quarter Fiscal Year 2023 (Ended October 31, 2022)

  • Revenue increased by 115% to $8.1 million compared to $3.8 million for Q1 FY2022.
  • Gross profit increased 131% to $5.3 million compared to $2.3 million for Q1 FY2022.
  • Gross margin increased to 64.9% compared to 60.6% for Q1 FY2022.
  • Non-GAAP Adjusted EBITDA income increased by 161% to $0.8 million, excluding all non-cash items and one-time transactional expenses, compared to $0.3 million for Q1 FY2022.
  • Non-GAAP Adjusted Operating EBITDA (OPCO EBITDA) income increased by 86% to $1.3 million, excluding corporate expenses, non-cash items and one-time transactional expenses, compared to $0.7 million for Q1 FY2022.

Key Business Highlights for the First Quarter Fiscal Year 2023 (Ended October 31, 2022)

  • Announced business combination with Minority Equality Opportunities Acquisition Inc. (MEOA).
  • Appointed Derek Gietzen to President.
  • NextLevel Internet named one of the Fortune top 100 best small & medium workplaces for 2022.

Update on Plan to List on NASDAQ via Business Combination with Minority Equality Opportunities Acquisition Inc.

The Company and MEOA have made significant progress since the business combination agreement was executed on August 30, 2022. Key accomplishments include:

  • MEOA’s filing of the S-4 registration statement for the business combination on November 30, 2022.
  • Filing by MEOA of its Charter Amendment approved by the shareholders of MEOA on November 29, 2022.

The transaction results in a $105 million enterprise valuation for Digerati and has been approved by the board of directors of both Digerati and MEOA, with an expected closing in the first quarter of CY 2023, subject to shareholder, U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) and NASDAQ approval.   The S-4 registration statement for the business combination is currently under review by the SEC.

Arthur L. Smith, CEO of Digerati, commented, “We continue to demonstrate successful execution of our acquisition strategy through improved quarterly financial results that included achieving record quarterly profitability in Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted OPCO EBITDA for the Company’s first quarter in FY2023. We look forward to carrying this financial momentum into subsequent quarters as we work towards closing our merger with MEOA and moving our listing to NASDAQ that we expect will greatly enhance our ability to replicate this success with additional targeted accretive acquisitions in the future.”

Antonio Estrada, CFO of Digerati, stated, “We had a very productive quarter in streamlining our business as we approach the one-year anniversary of closing the acquisitions of SkyNet and Next Level Internet. We successfully integrated the acquired businesses as demonstrated by the improved margins and profitability resulting from operating efficiencies and elimination of redundant costs. We recently closed on a $1.5 million financing which provides us with the capital necessary to close our NASDAQ listing transaction with MEOA that includes fees for extending the SPAC, as well as attorney and audit expenses.”

Three Months ended October 31, 2022 Compared to Three Months ended October 31, 2021

Revenue for the three months ended October 31, 2022 was $8.1 million, an increase of $4.4 million or 115% compared to $3.8 million for the three months ended October 31, 2021. The increase in revenue between periods is primarily attributed to the consolidation of the closed acquisitions of SkyNet Telecom and NextLevel Internet during the period. The total number of customers increased from 2,658 for the three months ended October 31, 2021, to 4,565 customers for the three months ended October 31, 2022.

Gross profit for the three months ended October 31, 2022 was $5.3 million, resulting in a gross margin of 64.9%, compared to $2.3 million and 60.6% for the three months ended October 31, 2021.

Selling, General and Administrative expenses (excluding legal and professional fees) for the three months ended October 31, 2022 increased by $2.4 million, or 133% to $4.1 million compared to $1.8 million for the three months ended October 31, 2021. The increase in SG&A is attributed to the consolidation of the closed acquisitions of SkyNet Telecom and NextLevel Internet, and the absorbed employees responsible for service delivery for the customer base, technical support, sales, customer service and administration.

Operating loss for the three months ended October 31, 2022, was $0.4 million, a decrease of $0.2 million or 31%, compared to $0.6 million for the three months ended October 31, 2021.

Adjusted EBITDA income for the three months ended October 31, 2022, was $0.8 million, an increase of $0.5 million, or 161%, compared to an adjusted EBITDA income of $0.3 million for the three months ended October 31, 2021. In accordance with SEC Regulation G, the non-GAAP measurement of Adjusted EBITDA has been reconciled to the nearest GAAP measurement, which can be viewed under the heading “Reconciliation of Net Loss to Adjusted EBITDA” in the financial table included in this press release.

Of note were the following non-cash expenses associated with the three months ended October 31, 2022: Company recognition of stock-based compensation and warrant expense of $0.02 million and depreciation and amortization expense of $1.0 million. Gain on derivative instruments was $3.1 million for the three months ended October 31, 2022.

Non-GAAP adjusted operating EBITDA (OPCO EBITDA) for the three months ended October 31, 2022, improved to income of $1.3 million, excluding corporate expenses, an increase of $0.6 million, or 86%, compared to a non-GAAP adjusted operating EBITDA of $0.7 million for the three months ended October 31, 2021.

Net loss for the three months ended October 31, 2022, was $5.0 million, an increase of $7.4 million, as compared to net income of $2.4 million, for the three months ended October 31, 2021. The resulting EPS for the three months ended October 31, 2022, was a loss of ($0.03), as compared to income of $0.01 for the three months ended October 31, 2021.

At October 31, 2022, Digerati had $1.0 million of cash.

Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measurements

The Company believes that EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization) is useful to investors because it is commonly used in the cloud communications industry to evaluate companies on the basis of operating performance and leverage. Adjusted EBITDA provides an adjusted view of EBITDA that takes into account certain significant non-recurring transactions, if any, such as impairment losses and expenses associated with pending acquisitions, which vary significantly between periods and are not recurring in nature, as well as certain recurring non-cash charges such as changes in fair value of the Company’s derivative liabilities and stock-based compensation. The Company also believes that Adjusted EBITDA provides investors with a measure of the Company’s operational and financial progress that corresponds with the measurements used by management as a basis for allocating resources and making other operating decisions. Although the Company uses Adjusted EBITDA as one of several financial measures to assess its operating performance, its use is limited as it excludes certain significant operating expenses. Non-GAAP operating EBITDA (OPCO EBITDA) is useful to investors because it reflects EBITDA for the core operation of the business excluding corporate expenses, non-cash expenses and transactional expenses. EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA, and Non-GAAP operating EBITDA are not intended to represent cash flows for the periods presented, nor have they been presented as an alternative to operating income or as an indicator of operating performance and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures of performance prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”). In accordance with SEC Regulation G, the non-GAAP measurements in this press release have been reconciled to the nearest GAAP measurement, which can be viewed under the heading “Reconciliation of Net Loss to Adjusted EBITDA” in the financial table included in this press release.

About Digerati Technologies, Inc.

Digerati Technologies, Inc. (OTCQB: DTGI) is a provider of cloud services specializing in UCaaS (Unified Communications as a Service) solutions for the business market. Through its operating subsidiaries NextLevel Internet (NextLevelinternet.com), T3 Communications (T3com.com), Nexogy (Nexogy.com), and SkyNet Telecom (Skynettelecom.net), the Company is meeting the global needs of small businesses seeking simple, flexible, reliable, and cost-effective communication and network solutions including, cloud PBX, cloud telephony, cloud WAN, cloud call center, cloud mobile, and the delivery of digital oxygen on its broadband network. The Company has developed a robust integration platform to fuel mergers and acquisitions in a highly fragmented market as it delivers business solutions on its carrier-grade network and Only in the Cloud™. 

About Minority Equality Opportunities Acquisition Inc.

Minority Equality Opportunities Acquisition Inc. is a blank check company, also commonly referred to as a special purpose acquisition company, or SPAC, organized under the laws of the Delaware and formed for the purpose of effecting a merger, share exchange, asset acquisition, share purchase, reorganization or similar business combination with companies that are minority owned, led or founded.

INVESTMENT IN ANY SECURITIES DESCRIBED HEREIN HAS NOT BEEN APPROVED OR DISAPPROVED BY THE SEC OR ANY OTHER REGULATORY AUTHORITY NOR HAS ANY AUTHORITY PASSED UPON OR ENDORSED THE MERITS OF THE OFFERING OR THE ACCURACY OR ADEQUACY OF THE INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN. ANY REPRESENTATION TO THE CONTRARY IS A CRIMINAL OFFENSE.

No Offer or Solicitation

This communication does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities, or a solicitation of any vote or approval, nor shall there be any sale of securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction.

Important Information and Where to Find It

As mentioned above, the parties have filed a registration statement on Form S-4 with the SEC (the “Registration Statement”), which includes a preliminary proxy statement for MEOA and Digerati shareholders and also serves as a prospectus related to offers and sales of the securities of the combined entity. MEOA will also file other documents regarding the proposed transaction with the SEC. A definitive proxy statement/prospectus will also be sent to the stockholders of MEOA and Digerati, seeking required stockholder approval. Before making any voting or investment decision, investors and security holders of MEOA and Digerati are urged to carefully read the entire registration statement and proxy statement/prospectus, when they become available, and any other relevant documents filed with the SEC, as well as any amendments or supplements to these documents, because they will contain important information about the proposed transaction. The documents filed with the SEC may be obtained free of charge at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov.

In addition, the documents filed with the SEC may be obtained from MEOA’s website at https://www.meoaus.com.

Participants in the Solicitation

MEOA, Digerati and their respective directors, executive officers, other members of management, and employees, under SEC rules, may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies of Digerati’s stockholders in connection with the Business Combination. Investors and security holders may obtain more detailed information regarding the names and interests in the Business Combination of Digerati’s directors and officers in MEOA’s filings with the SEC, including the Registration Statement filed with the SEC by MEOA, which includes the proxy statement of Digerati for the Business Combination. Free copies of these documents may be obtained as described above.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release includes certain statements that are not historical facts but are forward-looking statements for purposes of the safe harbor provisions under the applicable securities laws. Forward-looking statements generally are accompanied by words such as “believe,” “may,” “will,” “estimate,” “continue,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “expect,” “should,” “would,” “plan,” “predict,” “potential,” “seem,” “seek,” “future,” “outlook,” and similar expressions that predict or indicate future events or trends or that are not statements of historical matters.

These forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the terms and conditions of the proposed business combination and related transactions disclosed herein, the timing of the consummation of such transactions, assumptions regarding shareholder redemptions and the anticipated benefits and financial position of the parties resulting therefrom. These statements are based on various assumptions and/or on the current expectations of MEOA or Digerati’s management. These forward-looking statements are provided for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to serve as and must not be relied on by any investor or other person as, a guarantee, an assurance, a prediction or a definitive statement of fact or probability. Actual events and circumstances are difficult or impossible to predict and will differ from assumptions. Many actual events and circumstances are beyond the control of MEOA and/or Digerati. These forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, including but not limited to general economic, financial, legal, political and business conditions and changes in domestic and foreign markets; the amount of redemption requests made by MEOA’s public shareholders; NASDAQ’s approval of MEOA’s initial listing application; changes in the assumptions underlying Digerati’s expectations regarding its future business; the effects of competition on Digerati’s future business; and the outcome of judicial proceedings to which Digerati is, or may become a party.

If the risks materialize or assumptions prove incorrect, actual results could differ materially from the results implied by these forward-looking statements. There may be additional risks that Digerati and MEOA presently do not know or currently believe are immaterial that could also cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements. In addition, forward-looking statements reflect expectations, assumptions, plans or forecasts of future events and views as of the date of this press release. Digerati and MEOA anticipate that subsequent events and developments will cause these assessments to change. However, while Digerati and/or MEOA may elect to update these forward-looking statements at some point in the future, each of Digerati and MEOA specifically disclaims any obligation to do so, except as required by applicable law. These forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as representing Digerati’s or MEOA (or their respective affiliates’) assessments as of any date subsequent to the date of this press release. Accordingly, undue reliance should not be placed upon the forward-looking statements.

Facebook: Digerati Technologies, Inc.
Twitter: @DIGERATI_IR
LinkedIn: Digerati Technologies, Inc.

Investors

ClearThink
Brian Loper
bloper@clearthink.capital
(602) 785-4120

Release – Energy Fuels Awarded Contract to Sell $18.5 Million of Uranium to U.S. Uranium Reserve

Posted on by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

Research, News, and Market Data on UUUU

  • DOE program supports critical domestic clean energy & national security priorities
  • Pending membership in DOE HALEU Consortium to support fuel for next generation advanced nuclear reactors

LAKEWOOD, Colo., Dec. 16, 2022 /CNW/ – Energy Fuels Inc. (NYSE American: UUUU) (TSX: EFR) (“Energy Fuels” or the “Company”), a leading U.S. producer of uranium and rare earth elements (“REE“), today announced that it has been awarded a contract to sell $18.5 million of natural uranium concentrates (“U3O8“) to the U.S. government for the establishment of a strategic uranium reserve (the “Uranium Reserve“). The U.S. National Nuclear Security Administration (“NNSA“), an office within the U.S. Department of Energy (“DOE“), is the agency tasked with purchasing domestic U3O8 and conversion services for the Uranium Reserve. The Uranium Reserve is intended to be a backup source of supply for domestic nuclear power plants in the event of a significant market disruption. Additionally, the Company announced its application for membership in the DOE’s newly created HALEU Consortium.

Uranium Reserve Award:

Energy Fuels expects to complete the sale of uranium for the Uranium Reserve to NNSA during Q1-2023 and realize total gross proceeds of   $18.5 million. The U3O8 the Company expects to sell to the U.S. government is currently held in the Company’s inventory at the Metropolis Works Conversion Facility, located in Metropolis, Illinois. The sale does not involve the physical movement of material, so the sale and transfer can be completed quickly.

Mark S. Chalmers, President and CEO of Energy Fuels stated: “Energy Fuels is pleased to contribute to U.S. energy security by supplying U.S.-origin uranium to the U.S. uranium reserve. Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has highlighted America’s troubling dependence on Russia and its allies for our nuclear fuel and uranium supply, and the need for the U.S. to rebuild its uranium and nuclear fuel capabilities. Today, nuclear energy provides the U.S. with roughly 20% of all electricity, and 50% of our clean, carbon-free electricity. U.S. and European nuclear industries are actively working to shift away from Russian uranium supply, but the process will be difficult and lengthy. The U.S. can rely on supply from allies like Canada, Australia and others for a large proportion of our uranium and nuclear fuel supply, but we must also restore our own capabilities. For the past several years, U.S. uranium production has been near-zero and our only uranium conversion facility has been shut-down. The Uranium Reserve is a small, but important, step toward resolving this untenable situation.”

HALEU Consortium:

On December 12, 2022, Energy Fuels also applied for membership in the DOE’s newly created HALEU Consortium. The HALEU Consortium is a program managed by the DOE’s office of Nuclear Energy (“NE“) intended to help create a secure domestic supply of high-assay, low-enriched uranium (“HALEU“) used by many of the next generation of advanced nuclear reactor technologies. HALEU enables many advanced reactor designs to be smaller and more efficient than traditional reactors. The uranium used in traditional nuclear reactors is enriched to roughly 3% – 5% of the fissionable isotope, uranium-235 (“U-235“). HALEU is enriched to between 5% and 20% U-235. Today, only Russian companies are able to supply HALEU, which is causing delays in the development of advanced reactors. For example, TerraPower recently announced a delay in building its first Natrium reactor in Wyoming. TerraPower is a high-profile next generation advanced reactor developer funded by Bill Gates. TerraPower specifically attributed the delay to the lack of availability of HALEU outside of Russia.

As the leading producer of U3O8 in the U.S., and the owner and operator of the only conventional uranium mill in the U.S., Energy Fuels believes it can play an important role in advising the DOE and teaming with other companies for this critical program. Furthermore, Energy Fuels is pursuing other DOE priorities related to uranium production, including rare earth element and medical isotope production.

Mr. Chalmers continued: “Energy Fuels is increasingly recognized by the U.S. government and other market participants as indispensable to weaning the U.S. off of Russian uranium supply, and as a solid partner in other important priorities. Our White Mesa Mill is critical and unique domestic infrastructure, with licenses, expertise and capabilities found nowhere else in the U.S., that are needed to produce uranium, and many other critical minerals and materials. We stand ready to play a critical role in restoring America’s uranium, rare earths, and other critical material capabilities, while reducing our troubling dependence on Russia and China.”

About Energy Fuels: Energy Fuels is a leading U.S.-based uranium mining company, supplying U3O8 to major nuclear utilities. The Company also produces vanadium from certain of its projects, as market conditions warrant, mixed rare earth element carbonate (“RE Carbonate“) from uranium-bearing monazite ores and is ramping up to full commercial-scale production of separated rare earth oxides. Its corporate offices are in Lakewood, Colorado near Denver, and all its assets and employees are in the United States. Energy Fuels holds two of America’s key uranium production centers: the White Mesa Mill in Utah and the Nichols Ranch ISR Project in Wyoming. The White Mesa Mill is the only conventional uranium mill operating in the U.S. today, has a licensed capacity of over 8 million pounds of U3O8 per year, and has the ability to produce vanadium when market conditions warrant, as well as RE Carbonate from various uranium-bearing ores. The Nichols Ranch ISR Project is currently on standby and has a licensed capacity of 2 million pounds of U3O8 per year. In addition to the above production facilities, Energy Fuels also has one of the largest S-K 1300 and NI 43-101 compliant uranium resource portfolios in the U.S. and several uranium and uranium/vanadium mining projects on standby and in various stages of permitting and development. The primary trading market for Energy Fuels’ common shares is the NYSE American under the trading symbol “UUUU,” and the Company’s common shares are also listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the trading symbol “EFR.” Energy Fuels’ website is www.energyfuels.com.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements: This news release contains certain “Forward Looking Information” and “Forward Looking Statements” within the meaning of applicable United States and Canadian securities legislation, which may include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to: any expectation that the Company will complete the contemplated sale of uranium to the DOE in Q1-2023 or at all; any expectation that the Company will maintain its position as a leading uranium company in the United States; any expectation that the Company will be admitted as a member of the HALEU Consortium or that the Company can play an important role in this critical program; any expectation that the Mill will be successful in producing RE Carbonate and/or separated rare earth element oxides on a full-scale commercial basis or at all; any expectation that the Company will successfully produce radioisotopes to be used for the production of medical isotopes on a commercial basis or at all; any expectation that the Company is increasingly being recognized by the U.S. government and other market participants as an indispensable party in efforts to wean the U.S. off of Russian uranium supply, and a partner in other important priorities; and any expectation that the Company stands ready to play a critical role in restoring America’s uranium, rare earths and other critical material capabilities, while reducing America’s dependence on Russia and China. Generally, these forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as “plans,” “expects,” “does not expect,” “is expected,” “is likely,” “budgets,” “scheduled,” “estimates,” “forecasts,” “intends,” “anticipates,” “does not anticipate,” or “believes,” or variations of such words and phrases, or state that certain actions, events or results “may,” “could,” “would,” “might” or “will be taken,” “occur,” “be achieved” or “have the potential to.” All statements, other than statements of historical fact, herein are considered to be forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements express or implied by the forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements include risks associated with: commodity prices and price fluctuations; processing and mining difficulties, upsets and delays; permitting and licensing requirements and delays; changes to regulatory requirements; legal challenges; the availability of feed sources for the Mill; competition from other producers; public opinion; government and political actions; available supplies of monazite sands; the ability of the Mill to produce RE Carbonate to meet commercial specifications on a commercial scale at acceptable costs; the ability of the Mill to separate rare earth oxides to meet commercial specifications on a commercial scale at acceptable costs; market factors, including future demand for rare earth elements; the ability of the Mill to be able to separate radium or other radioisotopes at reasonable costs or at all; market prices and demand for medical isotopes; and the other factors described under the caption “Risk Factors” in the Company’s most recently filed Annual Report on Form 10-K, which is available for review on EDGAR at www.sec.gov/edgar.shtml, on SEDAR at www.sedar.com, and on the Company’s website at www.energyfuels.com. Forward-looking statements contained herein are made as of the date of this news release, and the Company disclaims, other than as required by law, any obligation to update any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, results, future events, circumstances, or if management’s estimates or opinions should change, or otherwise. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, the reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The Company assumes no obligation to update the information in this communication, except as otherwise required by law.

SOURCE Energy Fuels Inc.

For further information: Investor Inquiries: Energy Fuels Inc., Curtis Moore, VP – Marketing and Corporate Development, (303) 974-2140 or Toll free: (888) 864-2125, investorinfo@energyfuels.com, www.energyfuels.com

Release – Ocugen Announces Phase 3 Confirmatory Clinical Trial Agreement for Neocart®

Posted on by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

Research, News, and Market Data on OCGN

December 16, 2022

IMPORTANT NEXT STEP FOR OCUGEN’S REGENERATIVE CELL THERAPY IN ORTHOPEDICS SINCE ANNOUNCING PIPELINE EXPANSION IN MAY 2022

MALVERN, Pa., Dec. 16, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Ocugen, Inc. (Ocugen or the Company) (NASDAQ: OCGN), a biotechnology company focused on discovering, developing, and commercializing novel gene and cell therapies and vaccines, today announced that the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) agreed to Ocugen’s proposed control and overall design for the Phase 3 study of NeoCart®, a regenerative cell therapy for the repair of full-thickness lesions of the knee cartilage in adults.

“We are eager to get started on the final phase of NeoCart® development and pleased at the outcome of our discussions with the FDA,” said Dr. Shankar Musunuri, Chairman, Chief Executive Officer, and Co-Founder of Ocugen. “With this guidance, Ocugen has a clear path forward for the first candidate in our regenerative cell therapy program.”

The Phase 3 study will be a randomized, controlled trial to demonstrate the superiority over standard of care, chondroplasty, in subjects with articular cartilage defects. Ocugen plans to enroll subjects with one or two articular cartilage lesions with a total surface area of 1-3 cm2.

Ocugen is building a current Good Manufacturing Practice cell therapy manufacturing facility to support establishment of the clinical and commercial manufacturing process for NeoCart®. The Company plans to file an Investigational New Drug amendment to initiate a Phase 3 clinical trial in late 2023/early 2024.

Earlier this year, the FDA granted a regenerative medicine advanced therapy (RMAT), designation to NeoCart®. NeoCart® combines breakthroughs in bioengineering and cell processing to enhance the autologous cartilage repair process by merging a patient’s own cells with a fortified 3-D scaffold designed to accelerate healing and reduce pain.

About Ocugen, Inc.
Ocugen, Inc. is a biotechnology company focused on discovering, developing, and commercializing novel gene and cell therapies and vaccines that improve health and offer hope for patients across the globe. We are making an impact on patient’s lives through courageous innovation—forging new scientific paths that harness our unique intellectual and human capital. Our breakthrough modifier gene therapy platform has the potential to treat multiple retinal diseases with a single product, and we are advancing research in infectious diseases to support public health and orthopedic diseases to address unmet medical needs. Discover more at www.ocugen.com and follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn.

Cautionary Note on Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, which are subject to risks and uncertainties. We may, in some cases, use terms such as “predicts,” “believes,” “potential,” “proposed,” “continue,” “estimates,” “anticipates,” “expects,” “plans,” “intends,” “may,” “could,” “might,” “will,” “should,” or other words that convey uncertainty of future events or outcomes to identify these forward-looking statements. Such statements are subject to numerous important factors, risks, and uncertainties that may cause actual events or results to differ materially from our current expectations. These and other risks and uncertainties are more fully described in our periodic filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), including the risk factors described in the section entitled “Risk Factors” in the quarterly and annual reports that we file with the SEC. Any forward-looking statements that we make in this press release speak only as of the date of this press release. Except as required by law, we assume no obligation to update forward-looking statements contained in this press release whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, after the date of this press release.

Contact:
Tiffany Hamilton
Head of Communications
IR@ocugen.com

Release – Ocugen Announces Ocu400 Receives Orphan Drug Designations for Retinitis Pigmentosa and Leber Congenital Amaurosis

Posted on by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

Research, News, and Market Data on OCGN

December 15, 2022

U.S. FOOD & DRUG ADMINISTRATION (FDA) ACKNOWLEDGES THE POTENTIAL OF OCU400 TO TREAT RARE INHERITED RETINAL DISEASES

MALVERN, Pa., Dec. 15, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Ocugen, Inc. (Ocugen or the Company) (NASDAQ: OCGN), a biotechnology company focused on discovering, developing, and commercializing novel gene and cell therapies and vaccines, today announced that the FDA granted orphan drug designations to OCU400—human nuclear hormone receptor subfamily 2 group E member 3 (hNR2E3)—for the treatment of retinitis pigmentosa (RP) and Leber congenital amaurosis (LCA).

“Receiving orphan drug designation is incredibly encouraging at this stage in the development of OCU400,” said Arun Upadhyay, PhD, Chief Scientific Officer, Ocugen. “We are excited by the potential of OCU400, a nuclear hormone-based modifier gene therapy product, to treat RP and LCA in a gene agnostic manner. We look forward to working collaboratively with the FDA and other agencies to progress OCU400 through clinical development to commercialization.”

Orphan drug designation is a status given to certain drugs that show promise in the treatment, prevention, or diagnosis of orphan diseases. An orphan disease is a rare disease or condition that affects fewer than 200,000 people in the United States.

Currently, RP is associated with mutations in more than 100 genes, affecting approximately 110,000 people in the United States (U.S.). LCA is associated with mutations in more than 25 genes, affecting approximately 10,000 people in the U.S. There are currently no treatment options available for patients living with RP and LCA, and OCU400 has the potential to treat both with a single product.

OCU400 represents Ocugen’s modifier gene therapy approach, which is based on Nuclear Hormone Receptors (NHRs) that regulate diverse physiological functions, such as homeostasis, reproduction, development, and metabolism to potentially improve retinal health and function.

About Ocugen, Inc.
Ocugen, Inc. is a biotechnology company focused on discovering, developing, and commercializing novel gene and cell therapies and vaccines that improve health and offer hope for patients across the globe. We are making an impact on patient’s lives through courageous innovation—forging new scientific paths that harness our unique intellectual and human capital. Our breakthrough modifier gene therapy platform has the potential to treat multiple retinal diseases with a single product, and we are advancing research in infectious diseases to support public health and orthopedic diseases to address unmet medical needs. Discover more at www.ocugen.com and follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn.

Cautionary Note on Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, which are subject to risks and uncertainties. We may, in some cases, use terms such as “predicts,” “believes,” “potential,” “proposed,” “continue,” “estimates,” “anticipates,” “expects,” “plans,” “intends,” “may,” “could,” “might,” “will,” “should,” or other words that convey uncertainty of future events or outcomes to identify these forward-looking statements. Such statements are subject to numerous important factors, risks, and uncertainties that may cause actual events or results to differ materially from our current expectations. These and other risks and uncertainties are more fully described in our periodic filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), including the risk factors described in the section entitled “Risk Factors” in the quarterly and annual reports that we file with the SEC. Any forward-looking statements that we make in this press release speak only as of the date of this press release. Except as required by law, we assume no obligation to update forward-looking statements contained in this press release whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, after the date of this press release.

Contact:
Tiffany Hamilton
Head of Communications
IR@ocugen.com

Great Lakes Dredge & Dock (GLDD) – Some More Contracts

Posted on by cpereira@noblefcm.com


Friday, December 16, 2022

Great Lakes Dredge & Dock Corporation is the largest provider of dredging services in the United States. In addition, Great Lakes is fully engaged in expanding its core business into the rapidly developing offshore wind energy industry. The Company has a long history of performing significant international projects. The Company employs experienced civil, ocean and mechanical engineering staff in its estimating, production and project management functions. In its over 131-year history, the Company has never failed to complete a marine project. Great Lakes owns and operates the largest and most diverse fleet in the U.S. dredging industry, comprised of approximately 200 specialized vessels. Great Lakes has a disciplined training program for engineers that ensures experienced-based performance as they advance through Company operations. The Company’s Incident-and Injury-Free® (IIF®) safety management program is integrated into all aspects of the Company’s culture. The Company’s commitment to the IIF® culture promotes a work environment where employee safety is paramount.

Joe Gomes, Senior Research Analyst, 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.

More Awards. According to the daily Department of Defense award list, Great Lakes has been awarded two new contracts this week totaling some $37 million. As described below, both awards are for work that is expected to be completed in the first half of 2023. We would remind investors, periodically, awards can be rescinded by the DOD, so while we view the awards as more positive momentum for the Company, we recognize changes can happen between the DOD press release and actual work commencing.

12/12/2022 Contract Award. Great Lakes was awarded an $8,473,720 firm-fixed-price contract for maintenance dredging. Bids were solicited via the internet with three received. Work will be performed in Palm Beach, Florida with an estimated completion date of April 21, 2023. Fiscal 2020, 2021, 2022 and 2023 civil operation and maintenance funds in the amount of $8,473,720 were obligated at the time of the award.


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. 

Eskay Mining Corp. (ESKYF) – Highlights from the 2022 Drill Program

Posted on by cpereira@noblefcm.com


Friday, December 16, 2022

Mark Reichman, Senior Research Analyst, Natural Resources, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

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

2022 exploration and drilling program. The 2022 exploration program focused on identifying new precious metal-rich volcanogenic massive sulphide (VMS) deposits, often found in district scale clusters, across the Consolidated Eskay project. Much of the focus was on defining the extent of VMS systems along the eastern and western limbs of the Eskay Anticline. Eskay Mining completed 29,500 meters of diamond drilling along the TV-Jeff corridor and along the Scarlet Ridge-Tarn Lake trend.

Assay results released. Eskay Mining released assay results for 42 holes drilled along the TV-Jeff corridor, including north of the Jeff deposit. Assays returned from holes completed in areas close to the TV deposit yielded significant intercepts of gold and silver mineralization. Wide-spaced drilling approximately 800 meters north of Jeff encountered a new zone of mineralization that yielded high-grade gold and silver values, some within longer intervals of lower grade mineralization. The company is awaiting assay results from maiden drilling in the Scarlet Valley-Tarn Lake area where several new VMS targets were drill tested in 2022.


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. 

DLH Holdings (DLHC) – Key Takeaways From Management Call on GRSi Acquisition

Posted on by cpereira@noblefcm.com


Friday, December 16, 2022

DLH delivers improved health and readiness solutions for federal programs through research, development, and innovative care processes. The Company’s experts in public health, performance evaluation, and health operations solve the complex problems faced by civilian and military customers alike, leveraging digital transformation, artificial intelligence, advanced analytics, cloud-based applications, telehealth systems, and more. With over 2,300 employees dedicated to the idea that “Your Mission is Our Passion,” DLH brings a unique combination of government sector experience, proven methodology, and unwavering commitment to public health to improve the lives of millions. For more information, visit www.DLHcorp.com.

Joe Gomes, Senior Research Analyst, 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.

Investor Call. Earlier this week, DLH management hosted a conference call to discuss the acquisition of Grove Resource Solutions. We came away from the call even more excited about the combination of the two firms and the significant growth potential. We believe this transaction to be a case of where one plus one equals more than three.

Rationale. In a sentence: GRSi offers significant expansion opportunities by broadening DLH’s capabilities thus providing access to mission-critical programs that are expected to accelerate growth, both near and long-term. Combining GRSi’s technical capabilities with DLH’s research expertise creates a highly differentiated solution offering, in our view.


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. 

Axcella Therapeutics (AXLA) – Down But Not Out After Restructuring

Posted on by cpereira@noblefcm.com


Friday, December 16, 2022

Axcella is a clinical-stage biotechnology company pioneering a new approach to treat complex diseases using compositions of endogenous metabolic modulators (EMMs). The company’s product candidates are comprised of EMMs and derivatives that are engineered in distinct combinations and ratios to restore cellular homeostasis in multiple key biological pathways and improve cellular energetic efficiency. Axcella’s pipeline includes lead therapeutic candidates in Phase 2 development for the treatment of Long COVID and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), and the reduction in risk of overt hepatic encephalopathy (OHE) recurrence. The company’s unique model allows for the evaluation of its EMM compositions through non-IND clinical studies or IND clinical trials. For more information, please visit www.axcellatx.com.

Robert LeBoyer, Vice President, Research Analyst, Life Sciences , Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

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

Axcella Restructures and Reprioritizes Operations. Axcella has announced a corporate restructuring with changes to its development plans for AXA1125. The Phase 2b trial in NASH has been discontinued while the Long COVID Fatigue indication will move forward. Staff has been reduced by 85%. These actions should allow the operations to continue as strategic alternatives are evaluated.

Focus On Long COVID Fatigue. In August 2022, Axcella announced Phase 2a trial data for AXA1125 in Long COVID Fatigue patients, with data showing promising improvements in physical and mental fatigue. The company plans to continue discussions with the FDA and European regulators to design the next trial and requirements for an application for approval.


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. 

Allegiant Gold (AUXXF) – Excitement Builds

Posted on by cpereira@noblefcm.com


Friday, December 16, 2022

Allegiant owns 100% of 10 highly-prospective gold projects in the United States, seven of which are located in the mining-friendly jurisdiction of Nevada. Three of Allegiant’s projects are farmed-out, providing for cost reductions and cash-flow. Allegiant’s flagship, district-scale Eastside project hosts a large and expanding gold resource and is located in an area of excellent infrastructure. Preliminary metallurgical testing indicates that both oxide and sulphide gold mineralization at Eastside is amenable to heap leaching.

Mark Reichman, Senior Research Analyst, Natural Resources, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

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

Drilling at the East Pediment prospect. In late November, Allegiant Gold commenced a follow-up reverse circulation drilling program at the company’s East Pediment prospect to follow up on this year’s discovery of mineralized rhyolite with assays from Hole ES-258 returning intercepts of up to 4.4 grams of gold per tonne. Permits allow for up to 27 reverse circulation drill holes. To allow time for analysis of assay results, the program will be conducted in phases with the first phase comprised of  5 to 6 holes representing 2,000 meters of drilling.

Discovery Hole ES-258. The new discovery led Allegiant to stake an additional 194 mining claims covering parts of the pediment near Hole ES-258. Importantly, mineralization is open at depth where the bottom of Hole ES-258 returned 4.5 meters averaging 0.26 grams of gold per tonne and 13.66 grams of silver per tonne.


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.