Page 231 – Channelchek

Release – The GEO Group Enters Into Private Exchange Agreements With Certain 6.50% Convertible Senior Noteholders

Posted on April 5, 2024April 5, 2024 by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

April 5, 2024

BOCA RATON, Fla.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Apr. 5, 2024– The GEO Group (NYSE: GEO) (“GEO” or the “Company”), announced that it has entered into private exchange agreements with certain holders (the “Noteholders”) of GEO Corrections Holdings, Inc.’s 6.50% Exchangeable Senior Notes due 2026 (the “6.50% Exchangeable Senior Notes”).

The Noteholders have agreed to exchange $177 million in aggregate principal amount of the outstanding 6.50% Exchangeable Senior Notes for a current estimated valuation of $305 million. The consideration will consist of cash and shares of GEO’s common stock issued at closing. The final exchange value and number of shares of common stock to be issued by GEO to the Noteholders will be determined based upon a volume-weighted average price per share of common stock during an averaging period commencing today and lasting 20 trading days.

GEO expects to fund the cash portion for the exchanges, which totals $177 million, with the net proceeds from its previously announced offering of senior secured notes due 2029 and senior unsecured notes due 2031 or, if necessary, cash on hand.

The 6.50% Exchangeable Senior Notes to be exchanged represent approximately 77% of the outstanding principal amount, with $53 million in aggregate principal amount remaining outstanding following the exchange.

This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation to buy any of the securities described herein, nor shall there be any offer, solicitation, or sale of these securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful.

About The GEO Group

The GEO Group, Inc. (NYSE: GEO) is a leading diversified government service provider, specializing in design, financing, development, and support services for secure facilities, processing centers, and community reentry centers in the United States, Australia, South Africa, and the United Kingdom. GEO’s diversified services include enhanced in-custody rehabilitation and post-release support through the award-winning GEO Continuum of Care®, secure transportation, electronic monitoring, community-based programs, and correctional health and mental health care. GEO’s worldwide operations include the ownership and/or delivery of support services for 100 facilities totaling approximately 81,000 beds, including idle facilities and projects under development, with a workforce of up to approximately 18,000 employees.

Use of forward-looking statements

This press release includes forward-looking statements regarding the closing of the private exchange transactions and expected reduction in the total outstanding 6.50% Exchangeable Senior Notes. These forward-looking statements may be affected by risks and uncertainties in GEO’s business and market conditions. This information is qualified in its entirety by cautionary statements and risk factor disclosure contained in GEO’s Securities and Exchange Commission filings, including GEO’s report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023, and GEO’s reports on Form 10-Q and Form 8-K filed with the Commission. GEO wishes to caution readers that certain important factors may have affected and could in the future affect GEO’s actual results and could cause GEO’s actual results for subsequent periods to differ materially from those expressed in any forward-looking statement made by or on behalf of GEO, including the risks that the private exchanges cannot successfully be completed. GEO undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof, except as required by law.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240404523690/en/

Pablo E. Paez, (866) 301 4436
Executive Vice President, Corporate Relations

Source: The GEO Group, Inc.

Johnson & Johnson Flexes Its M&A Muscle with $12.5 Billion Shockwave Medical Buy

Posted on April 5, 2024April 5, 2024 by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

Healthcare giant Johnson & Johnson announced on Friday that it is acquiring Shockwave Medical for a whopping $12.5 billion in cash, in a move that further bolsters its cardiovascular device portfolio. The deal allows J&J to add Shockwave’s innovative intravascular lithotripsy (IVL) system to its offerings.

IVL is a minimally invasive technique that uses sonic pressure waves to crack calcified plaque in arteries prior to inserting stents – similar in concept to how shockwaves are used to break up kidney stones. This novel approach helps improve outcomes for certain challenging arterial calcification cases that traditional treatment can struggle with.

Under the terms of the agreement, J&J will pay $335 per share for Shockwave, representing a 17% premium over the company’s stock price in late March when acquisition rumors first surfaced. The total enterprise value of the transaction is approximately $13.1 billion when including the cash on Shockwave’s balance sheet.

The acquisition comes hot on the heels of J&J’s $16.6 billion purchase of heart pump maker Abiomed last year, as the company doubles down on expanding its cardiovascular capabilities. Analysts see significant opportunity in this space, with RBC estimating the total addressable market for IVL and similar calcified plaque treatments at around $10 billion annually.

For Shockwave, being acquired by the deep-pocketed J&J provides the resources to ramp up commercialization of its breakthrough IVL system, which generated $730 million in sales last year. Meanwhile, the deal aligns with J&J’s strategic efforts to augment its medical device segment amid increasing competitive pressures in its pharmaceutical arm.

The Shockwave acquisition exemplifies a broader trend of large healthcare conglomerates snapping up promising smaller companies and technologies to drive future growth. With organic drug pipelines drying up and patent expirations looming, “big pharma” players are turning to M&A to inject innovation into their product portfolios.

Just last week, pharma giant AbbieVie announced multi-million dollar buyouts of smaller biotech firm Landos. Earlier this year, AstraZeneca shelled out $2.4 billion for oncology innovator Fusion Pharmaceuticals.

For investors interested in identifying the next potential M&A targets in healthcare’s hot growth areas, one upcoming event to mark on the calendar is the Noble Capital Markets Emerging Growth Virtual Healthcare Conference on April 17-18. This two-day virtual investor conference will feature presentations from emerging public and private healthcare companies spanning biotech, medical devices, healthcare IT and services. You can register at no cost for this event here.

The Noble virtual conference provides an ideal opportunity for institutional investors, financial advisors and independent investors alike to gain insights into cutting-edge healthcare innovations that could be tomorrow’s M&A prizes for industry titans like J&J. Presenting companies will span an array of therapeutic areas including oncology, neurology, xenotransplantation and more.

As the Shockwave deal demonstrates, big pharma isn’t shying away from spending big to stay ahead of the healthcare innovation curve. For investors, uncovering the next game-changing therapies and technologies could uncover lucrative future buyout candidates.

Release – The GEO Group Prices Senior Notes Offering and New Term Loan

Posted on April 5, 2024April 5, 2024 by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

Research News and Market Data on GEO

April 4, 2024

PDF Version

BOCA RATON, Fla.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Apr. 4, 2024– The GEO Group (NYSE: GEO) (“GEO” or the “Company”) announced today that it has priced a private offering of $1.275 billion aggregate principal amount of senior notes, comprised of $650.0 million aggregate principal amount of 8.625% senior secured notes due 2029 (the “Secured Notes”) and $625.0 million aggregate principal amount of 10.25% senior unsecured notes due 2031 (the “Unsecured Notes” and together with the Secured Notes, the “Notes”), exempt from registration requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”). The Notes will be guaranteed by GEO’s domestic subsidiaries that are guarantors under a new senior secured credit facility and outstanding senior notes. The offering of the Notes is expected to close on April 18, 2024, subject to customary closing conditions. GEO also announced today that it has priced a new $450.0 million Term Loan B (the “Term Loan”), bearing interest at SOFR plus 5.25%, under a new senior secured credit facility, which is expected to close on April 18, 2024. The offering of the Notes and the new Term Loan are expected to result in net proceeds of approximately $1.67 billion, after deducting the initial purchasers’ discount and estimated expenses payable by GEO.

The net proceeds of the offering of the Notes, borrowings under the new Term Loan, and cash on hand will be used to refinance approximately $1.5 billion of existing indebtedness, including to fund the refinance, repurchase, redemption or other discharge of the Company’s existing Tranche 1 Term Loan and Tranche 2 Term Loan under its existing senior credit facility, the 9.50% senior second lien secured notes, the 10.50% senior second lien secured notes, and the 6.00% senior notes due 2026, to pay related premiums, transaction fees and expenses. GEO also intends to retire or settle a portion of the 6.50% exchangeable senior notes due 2026 issued by GEO Corrections Holdings, Inc., using shares of GEO common stock and cash. GEO expects to fund the cash portion for the retirement or settlement, which is expected to total up to $180.0 million, with a portion of the net proceeds from the offering of the Notes or, if necessary, cash on hand. Nothing in this press release should be construed as an offer to purchase, notice of redemption or a solicitation of an offer to purchase any of the existing term loans or notes, and the closing of the offering of the Notes is not conditioned on the consummation of such repurchase, redemption or other discharge; however, the repurchase, redemption or other discharge of the existing term loans and notes are conditioned on the consummation of the offering of Notes and the closing of the new Term Loan and certain other financing transactions.

The Notes were offered and will be sold in the United States only to persons reasonably believed to be “qualified institutional buyers” pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act, and outside the United States only to non-U.S. persons pursuant to Regulation S under the Securities Act. The Notes have not been, and will not be, registered under the Securities Act or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements under the Securities Act and applicable state laws. This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy, nor shall there be any sale of the Notes 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.

About The GEO Group

Use of forward-looking statements

This press release includes forward-looking statements regarding GEO’s intention to issue the Notes, borrow the term loan and its intended use of the net proceeds. These forward-looking statements may be affected by risks and uncertainties in GEO’s business and market conditions. This information is qualified in its entirety by cautionary statements and risk factor disclosure contained in GEO’s Securities and Exchange Commission filings, including GEO’s report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023, and GEO’s reports on Form 10-Q and Form 8-K filed with the Commission. GEO wishes to caution readers that certain important factors may have affected and could in the future affect GEO’s actual results and could cause GEO’s actual results for subsequent periods to differ materially from those expressed in any forward-looking statement made by or on behalf of GEO, including the risks that the offering of the Notes and/or the closing of the new Term Loan cannot be successfully completed, that the refinance, repurchase, redemption or other discharge of its Tranche 1 Term Loan and Tranche 2 Term Loan under its existing senior credit facility, the 9.50% senior second lien secured notes, the 10.50% senior second lien secured notes, and the 6.00% senior notes due 2026 cannot be successfully completed, and that the retirement or settlement of a portion of the 6.50% exchangeable senior notes due 2026 issued by GEO Corrections Holdings, Inc. cannot be successfully completed. GEO undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof, except as required by law.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240404983014/en/

Pablo E. Paez (866) 301 4436
Executive Vice President, Corporate Relations

Source: The GEO Group, Inc.

Release – Bitcoin Depot Announces Expansion into Australia with 125 Bitcoin ATMs

Posted on April 4, 2024April 4, 2024 by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

Research News and Market Data on BTM

April 04, 2024 8:00 AM EDT

Bitcoin Depot plans to install BTMs in Retail Locations Across Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane

ATLANTA, April 04, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitcoin Depot (NASDAQ: BTM), a U.S.-based Bitcoin ATM (“BTM”) operator and leading fintech company, today announced that it plans to expand its footprint internationally into Australia and ship 125 kiosks to the country in Q2 2024. The Company eagerly anticipates further expanding its global presence by offering its cash-to-Bitcoin services to individuals across the biggest metropolitan cities in the country, such as Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane. This announcement follows closely on the heels of the Company’s expansion into Puerto Rico in March.

“This strategic expansion into Australia marks a significant step for us, bringing our Bitcoin ATMs to more of an untapped market with significant growth potential and lower competition,” said Brandon Mintz, CEO of Bitcoin Depot. “Our goal is to offer a simple, quick, and convenient process for converting cash into Bitcoin. We see immense opportunity for growth in Australia and are excited to work with new retail partners, serve a broader customer base, and introduce Bitcoin to new users across the country. With this announcement, Bitcoin Depot will be operating in at least three countries in 2024, and we believe there is potential for further international expansion.”

Bitcoin Depot sees immense potential for Australia due to the country’s roughly 27 million-person population and its current BTM kiosk count of roughly 950 BTMs amongst only 10 operators, according to data from Coin ATM Radar. This presents a unique opportunity for the Company to capitalize on this gap in the market and the growing demand for accessible Bitcoin services in the country.

Bitcoin Depot’s products and services provide an intuitive, quick, and convenient process for converting cash into Bitcoin. This allows users to access the broader digital financial system, including using Bitcoin to make payments, transfers, remittances, online purchases, and investments.

“When I founded Bitcoin Depot seven years ago, my vision was to make cryptocurrency accessible to all. Today, I’m thrilled to see the significant strides we’ve made, particularly with our geographic expansion into Australia. This move not only enhances accessibility but also underscores our commitment to providing exceptional convenience and service in as many retail locations as possible,” said Mintz.

This news adds to the Company’s momentum, following recent expansion announcements and surpassing its goal of deploying 8,000 Bitcoin ATMs. Bitcoin Depot now boasts the largest installed fleet of BTMs in its history, solidifying its position as the leading BTM operator in North America. Despite market turbulence, the Company went public on a major U.S. stock exchange in 2023, earning recognition in Forbes 30 Under 30 and Deloitte’s 2023 Technology Fast 500.

About Bitcoin Depot
Bitcoin Depot Inc. (Nasdaq: BTM) was founded in 2016 with the mission to connect those who prefer to use cash to the broader, digital financial system. Bitcoin Depot provides its users with simple, efficient and intuitive means of converting cash into Bitcoin, which users can deploy in the payments, spending and investing space. Users can convert cash to bitcoin at Bitcoin Depot kiosks in 48 states and at thousands of name-brand retail locations in 29 states through its BDCheckout product. The Company has the largest market share in North America with approximately 7,400 kiosk locations as of April 1, 2024. Learn more at www.bitcoindepot.com.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
This press release and any oral statements made in connection herewith include “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Exchange Act. Forward-looking statements are any statements other than statements of historical fact, and include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the expectations of plans, business strategies, objectives and growth and anticipated financial and operational performance, including our growth strategy and ability to increase deployment of our products and services, the anticipated effects of the Amendment, and the closing of the Preferred Sale. These forward-looking statements are based on management’s current beliefs, based on currently available information, as to the outcome and timing of future events. Forward-looking statements are often identified by words such as “anticipate,” “appears,” “approximately,” “believe,” “continue,” “could,” “designed,” “effect,” “estimate,” “evaluate,” “expect,” “forecast,” “goal,” “initiative,” “intend,” “may,” “objective,” “outlook,” “plan,” “potential,” “priorities,” “project,” “pursue,” “seek,” “should,” “target,” “when,” “will,” “would,” or the negative of any of those words or similar expressions that predict or indicate future events or trends or that are not statements of historical matters, although not all forward-looking statements contain such identifying words. In making these statements, we rely upon assumptions and analysis based on our experience and perception of historical trends, current conditions, and expected future developments, as well as other factors we consider appropriate under the circumstances. We believe these judgments are reasonable, but these statements are not guarantees of any future events or financial results. 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 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 our control.

These forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, including changes in domestic and foreign business, market, financial, political and legal conditions; failure to realize the anticipated benefits of the business combination; future global, regional or local economic and market conditions; the development, effects and enforcement of laws and regulations; our ability to manage future growth; our ability to develop new products and services, bring them to market in a timely manner and make enhancements to our platform; the effects of competition on our future business; our ability to issue equity or equity-linked securities; the outcome of any potential litigation, government and regulatory proceedings, investigations and inquiries; and those factors described or referenced in filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. If any of these risks materialize or our assumptions prove incorrect, actual results could differ materially from the results implied by these forward-looking statements. There may be additional risks that we do not presently know or that we currently believe are immaterial that could also cause actual results to differ from those contained in the forward-looking statements. In addition, forward-looking statements reflect our expectations, plans or forecasts of future events and views as of the date of this press release. We anticipate that subsequent events and developments will cause our assessments to change.

We caution readers not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made, and we undertake no obligation to update publicly or otherwise revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or other factors that affect the subject of these statements, except where we are expressly required to do so by law. All written and oral forward-looking statements attributable to us are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement.

Contacts:

Investors
Cody Slach, Alex Kovtun
Gateway Group, Inc.
949-574-3860
BTM@gateway-grp.com

Media
Christina Lockwood, Brenlyn Motlagh, Ryan Deloney
Gateway Group, Inc.
949-574-3860
BTM@gateway-grp.com

Source: Bitcoin Depot Inc.

Released April 4, 2024

Release – Zyversa Therapeutics Highlights Published Data Demonstrating NLRP3 Inflammasome Inhibition Has Potential To Decrease Atherosclerotic Lesions In Patients With Diabetes

Posted on April 4, 2024April 4, 2024 by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

Research News and Market Data on ZVSA

Apr 4, 2024

PDF Version

Atherosclerosis (AS) and its sequelae are the most common cause of death in diabetic patients and one of the reasons why diabetes has entered the top 10 causes of death worldwide.
The published data show that inhibiting the NLRP3 inflammasome pathway significantly reduces atherosclerotic lesions and improves hyperglycemic-induced plaque instability.
ZyVersa is developing IC 100, a monoclonal antibody targeting inflammasome ASC and ASC specks from multiple types of inflammasomes, including NLRP3, to block initiation and perpetuation of damaging inflammation that promotes atherosclerosis and its progression, among numerous other inflammatory diseases.

WESTON, Fla., April 04, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ZyVersa Therapeutics, Inc. (Nasdaq: ZVSA or “ZyVersa”), a clinical stage specialty biopharmaceutical company developing first-in-class drugs for treatment of inflammatory and renal diseases, highlights data from a peer-reviewed article published in Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications. This article demonstrates that NLRP3 inhibition results in improved glucose tolerance and markedly smaller and more stable atherosclerotic lesions in a diabetic mouse model.

In the paper titled, “High glucose levels accelerate atherosclerosis via NLRP3-IL/ MAPK/ NF-κB-related inflammation pathways,” the authors evaluated serum and coronary artery tissues from patients with coronary artery disease (CAD), with and without diabetes and they conducted a study in diabetic mouse models. Key findings include:

Patients with comorbid CAD and diabetes had higher serum levels and expression of NLRP3 in their coronary arteries, and increased serum levels of IL-1β and IL-6 than those with CAD only.
Diabetic mouse models showed a significantly higher atherosclerotic plaque/vessel area ratio than non-diabetic mice, which was markedly reduced with NLRP3 inhibition and the resulting reduction in levels of proinflammatory cytokines and inflammation.

The authors concluded, “Our research offers new understanding of the pathological mechanisms of diabetes-accelerated AS and provide a novel and promising target for treating diabetes-accelerated AS.” To review the publication, Click Here.

“We are excited about the data published in Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications demonstrating that inhibiting inflammasome NLPR3 pathways has potential to attenuate the development and progression of AS in patients with diabetes, a leading cause of morbidity and mortality,” commented Stephen C. Glover, ZyVersa’s Co-founder, Chairman, CEO, and President. “We look forward to seeing our preclinical data with Inflammasome ASC Inhibitor IC 100 in an animal model of atherosclerosis in the first half of this year. We believe that by inhibiting multiple types of inflammasomes and disrupting the structure and function of their associated ASC specks to attenuate initiation and perpetuation of inflammation, that IC 100 has promise to effectively control AS development and progression.” To review a white paper summarizing the mechanism of action and preclinical data for IC 100, Click Here.

About Inflammasome ASC Inhibitor IC 100

IC 100 is a novel humanized IgG4 monoclonal antibody that inhibits the inflammasome adaptor protein ASC. IC 100 was designed to attenuate both initiation and perpetuation of the inflammatory response. It does so by binding to a specific region of the ASC component of multiple types of inflammasomes, including NLRP1, NLRP2, NLRP3, NLRC4, AIM2, and Pyrin. Intracellularly, IC 100 binds to ASC monomers, inhibiting inflammasome formation, thereby blocking activation of IL-1β early in the inflammatory cascade. IC 100 also binds to ASC in ASC Specks, both intracellularly and extracellularly, further blocking activation of IL-1β and the perpetuation of the inflammatory response that is pathogenic in inflammatory diseases. Because active cytokines amplify adaptive immunity through various mechanisms, IC 100, by attenuating cytokine activation, also attenuates the adaptive immune response.

About ZyVersa Therapeutics, Inc.

ZyVersa (Nasdaq: ZVSA) is a clinical stage specialty biopharmaceutical company leveraging advanced, proprietary technologies to develop first-in-class drugs for patients with renal and inflammatory diseases who have significant unmet medical needs. The Company is currently advancing a therapeutic development pipeline with multiple programs built around its two proprietary technologies – Cholesterol Efflux Mediator™ VAR 200 for treatment of kidney diseases, and Inflammasome ASC Inhibitor IC 100, targeting damaging inflammation associated with numerous CNS and other inflammatory diseases. For more information, please visit www.zyversa.com.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements contained in this press release regarding matters that are not historical facts, are forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These include statements regarding management’s intentions, plans, beliefs, expectations, or forecasts for the future, and, therefore, you are cautioned not to place undue reliance on them. No forward-looking statement can be guaranteed, and actual results may differ materially from those projected. ZyVersa Therapeutics, Inc (“ZyVersa”) uses words such as “anticipates,” “believes,” “plans,” “expects,” “projects,” “future,” “intends,” “may,” “will,” “should,” “could,” “estimates,” “predicts,” “potential,” “continue,” “guidance,” and similar expressions to identify these forward-looking statements that are intended to be covered by the safe-harbor provisions. Such forward-looking statements are based on ZyVersa’s expectations and involve risks and uncertainties; consequently, actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied in the statements due to a number of factors, including ZyVersa’s plans to develop and commercialize its product candidates, the timing of initiation of ZyVersa’s planned preclinical and clinical trials; the timing of the availability of data from ZyVersa’s preclinical and clinical trials; the timing of any planned investigational new drug application or new drug application; ZyVersa’s plans to research, develop, and commercialize its current and future product candidates; the clinical utility, potential benefits and market acceptance of ZyVersa’s product candidates; ZyVersa’s commercialization, marketing and manufacturing capabilities and strategy; ZyVersa’s ability to protect its intellectual property position; and ZyVersa’s estimates regarding future revenue, expenses, capital requirements and need for additional financing.

New factors emerge from time-to-time, and it is not possible for ZyVersa to predict all such factors, nor can ZyVersa assess the impact of each such factor on the business or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements included in this press release are based on information available to ZyVersa as of the date of this press release. ZyVersa disclaims any obligation to update such forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date of this press release, except as required by applicable law.

This press release does not constitute an offer to sell, or the solicitation of an offer to buy, any securities.

Corporate, Media, and IR Contact:
Karen Cashmere
Chief Commercial Officer
kcashmere@zyversa.com
786-251-9641

Ford Shifts EV Strategy, Delays Electric SUV and Truck Launches

Posted on April 4, 2024April 4, 2024 by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

Ford Motor Company has pumped the brakes on its plans to rapidly electrify its vehicle lineup, announcing delays for two hotly anticipated all-electric models – a three-row SUV and a pickup truck. The automaker cited the need to allow more time for consumer demand and new battery technologies to develop further before committing to these capital-intensive vehicle programs.

The multi-row electric SUV initially targeted for production in 2025 at Ford’s Oakville, Canada plant has been pushed back to at least 2027. And the electric pickup previously slated for late 2025 is now not expected until 2026. This recalibrated roadmap represents a significant detour from Ford’s earlier aggressive EV roadmap, and has notable implications both for Ford and the overall electric vehicle market trajectory.

For Ford, the delays allow the company to be more judicious with its investments at a time when EV adoption has been slower and more costly than many projected. Ford lost $4.7 billion on its electric vehicle efforts in 2023 alone. By taking a more measured approach, Ford can hopefully time these program launches better with consumer readiness and technological advancements that could make the vehicles more compelling and profitable.

However, the setbacks also risk Ford falling behind leaders like Tesla, Hyundai/Kia, and Chinese EV makers BYD and Xiaomi in the fierce electric vehicle battle. Both Tesla and Hyundai/Kia outsold Ford’s EV lineup in the first quarter of 2024, while BYD is gearing up to launch its first electric pickup truck to challenge Ford in that key segment.

For investors, Ford’s pulled-back EV plans could be seen as a prudent way to limit the staggering losses in that part of the business for now. But it also injects more uncertainty around Ford’s long-term EV positioning and market share outlook. Competition is intensifying rapidly with new electric offerings from virtually every major automaker, including emerging players like Xiaomi looking to grab a piece of the EV pie.

Tesla maintains a clear lead, but its growth has slowed as rivals have released more compelling electric models across more vehicle segments. If companies like Hyundai, GM, Volkswagen, BYD and others can continue gaining traction, Ford could find itself scrambling if it is late to market with mainstream electric SUV and truck options that are so pivotal to its product mix.

The EV delays underscore the challenging transitions legacy automakers face in balancing investments for the electric future while still deriving most of their profits from sales of internal combustion engine vehicles today. Stock investors seem to be giving Ford the benefit of the doubt for now, with shares trading close to 52-week highs. But delivering on execution with these postponed electric models has become even more crucial for Ford to remain relevant and profitable over the long haul as new EV competitors emerge.

The GEO Group (GEO) – Proposed Refinancing

Posted on April 4, 2024April 4, 2024 by cpereira@noblefcm.com

Thursday, April 04, 2024

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

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

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

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

Proposed Refinancing. The GEO Group is proposing to issue $1.2 billion of senior notes, comprised of $700 million of senior secured notes due 2029 and $500 million of senior unsecured notes due 2031 in a private offering. The Company also is seeking a new $400 million Term Loan B under a new senior secured credit facility.

Use of Proceeds. The proceeds will be used to refinance approximately $1.5 billion of existing indebtedness, including to fund the repurchase, redemption or other discharge of the Company’s existing Tranche 1 Term Loan and Tranche 2 Term Loan under its existing senior credit facility, the 9.50% senior second lien secured notes, the 10.50% senior second lien secured notes, and the 6.00% senior notes due 2026. Other uses are to pay debt related transaction fees and expenses and for general corporate purposes.

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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.

Bit Digital (BTBT) – A Slight Improvement in March

Posted on April 4, 2024April 4, 2024 by cpereira@noblefcm.com

Thursday, April 04, 2024

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

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

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

Mining Business. Bit Digital produced 136.4 BTC during the month of March, a 6% increase from 128.7 BTC in the month of February. The active hash rate for the Company was 2.76 EH/s compared to 2.73 EH/s last month. We believe the Company is still on track towards its active mining fleet goal of 6.0 EH/s by the end of 2024.

Staking Side and AI. Approximately 3,008 ETH was actively staked in native staking protocols as of March 31, 2024. This is a decrease from the 12,384 natively staked last month due to the Company changing its provider for native staking solutions. The Company earned a blended APY of approximately 2.8% on its staked ETH during the month and earned aggregate staking rewards of approximately 29.0 ETH. As of March 31, 2024, the Company had 251 servers actively generating revenue on its AI contract, with an estimated $4.3 million of revenue earned during the month.

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

Release – Snail Games Unveils First Expansion Map and DLC for ARK: Survival Ascended

Posted on April 3, 2024April 3, 2024 by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

Research News and Market Data on SNAL

April 3, 2024 at 8:00 AM EDT

CULVER CITY, Calif., April 03, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Snail, Inc. (Nasdaq: SNAL) (“Snail Games” or “the Company”), a leading global independent developer and publisher of interactive digital entertainment, today announced the release of significant new content for ARK: Survival Ascended. This update, featuring the Scorched Earth Expansion Map and Bob’s Tall Tales DLC, is designed to enhance the gaming experience and deepen the ARK universe, underlining Snail Games’ dedication to engaging a broader audience.

The Scorched Earth Expansion Map, available at no additional cost to players of ARK: Survival Ascended starting April 1st, introduces players to an immersive desert environment filled with new survival dynamics and challenges. Additionally, the paid DLC, Bob’s Tall Tales, voiced by Karl Urban, offers players a narrative-rich adventure through the lore of ARK. The first story of Bob’s Tall Tales available at launch, Frontier Showdown, features desert-themed goodies, the new ability to build train tracks across the landscape, and Wild West-style dino raids. Further stories, including Steampunk Ascent and Wasteland Wars, are slated for future release. The dual launch aims not only to enrich the player’s experience but also to extend the appeal of ARK Survival Ascended. Moreover, starting April 1st, ARK Survival Ascended (Cloud, PC, Xbox Series X|S) becomes available on Microsoft’s Game Pass, extending its reach to a wider player base.

“These new additions to our ARK Survival Ascended represent another strategic initiative to enhance our flagship franchise’s position in the competitive gaming industry,” said Jim Tsai, CEO of Snail, Inc. “Our investment in expanding ARK: Survival Ascended with compelling content aims to cater our dedicated player base and broaden our game’s market reach, brand presence and visibility within the gaming community. We’re excited about the future of the ARK franchise as we continue to explore innovative ways to expand and engage our global audience. Moreover, we aim to leverage our expansion and success in the ARK universe and other game titles to increase our market penetration and shareholder value.”

About Snail, Inc. – https://www.snailgamesusa.com/

Snail is a leading, global independent developer and publisher of interactive digital entertainment for consumers around the world, with a premier portfolio of premium games designed for use on a variety of platforms, including consoles, PCs and mobile devices.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains statements that constitute forward-looking statements. Many of the forward-looking statements contained in this press release can be identified by the use of forward-looking words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “could,” “expect,” “should,” “plan,” “intend,” “may,” “predict,” “continue,” “estimate” and “potential,” or the negative of these terms or other similar expressions. Forward looking statements appear in a number of places in this press release and include, but are not limited to, statements regarding Snail’s intent, belief or current expectations.

Contacts:

Investors:

investors@snail.com

Press:

media@snail.com

Release – The GEO Group Announces Senior Notes Offering

Posted on April 3, 2024April 3, 2024 by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

Research News and Market Data on GEO

April 3, 2024

BOCA RATON, Fla.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Apr. 3, 2024– The GEO Group (NYSE: GEO) (“GEO” or the “Company”) announced today that it is proposing, subject to market and other customary conditions, to issue $1.2 billion aggregate principal amount of senior notes, comprised of $700.0 million aggregate principal amount of senior secured notes due 2029 (the “Secured Notes”) and $500.0 million aggregate principal amount of senior unsecured notes due 2031 (the “Unsecured Notes” and together with the Secured Notes, the “notes”), in a private offering that is exempt from the registration requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”). The notes will be guaranteed by GEO’s domestic subsidiaries that are guarantors under a new senior secured credit facility and outstanding senior notes.

The gross proceeds of the offering, borrowings under a contemplated new $400.0 million Term Loan B under a new senior secured credit facility, and cash on hand will be used to refinance approximately $1.5 billion of existing indebtedness, including to fund the repurchase, redemption or other discharge of the Company’s existing Tranche 1 Term Loan and Tranche 2 Term Loan under its existing senior credit facility, the 9.50% senior second lien secured notes, the 10.50% senior second lien secured notes, and the 6.00% senior notes due 2026, to pay related transaction fees and expenses, and for general corporate purposes of the Company. Nothing in this press release should be construed as an offer to purchase, notice of redemption or a solicitation of an offer to purchase any of the existing term loans or notes, and the closing of this offering is not conditioned on the consummation of such repurchase, redemption or other discharge; however, the repurchase, redemption or other discharge of the existing term loans and notes are conditioned on the consummation of this offering and certain other financing transactions.

The notes will be offered in the United States only to persons reasonably believed to be “qualified institutional buyers” pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act, and outside the United States only to non-U.S. persons pursuant to Regulation S under the Securities Act. The notes have not been, and will not be, registered under the Securities Act or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements under the Securities Act and applicable state laws. This news release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy, nor shall there be any sale of the notes 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.

About The GEO Group

Use of forward-looking statements

This press release includes forward-looking statements regarding GEO’s intention to issue the notes and its intended use of the net proceeds. These forward-looking statements may be affected by risks and uncertainties in GEO’s business and market conditions. This information is qualified in its entirety by cautionary statements and risk factor disclosure contained in GEO’s Securities and Exchange Commission filings, including GEO’s report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023, and GEO’s reports on Form 10-Q and Form 8-K filed with the Commission. GEO wishes to caution readers that certain important factors may have affected and could in the future affect GEO’s actual results and could cause GEO’s actual results for subsequent periods to differ materially from those expressed in any forward-looking statement made by or on behalf of GEO, including the risks that the offering of the notes cannot be successfully completed, that the repurchase, redemption or other discharge of its Tranche 1 Term Loan and Tranche 2 Term Loan under its existing senior credit facility, the 9.50% senior second lien secured notes, the 10.50% senior second lien secured notes, and the 6.00% senior notes due 2026 cannot be successfully completed. GEO undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof, except as required by law.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240402139060/en/

Pablo E. Paez, (866) 301 4436
Executive Vice President, Corporate Relations

Source: The GEO Group, Inc.

New Highs Across Markets Signal Bull Run For Investors

Posted on April 3, 2024April 3, 2024 by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

The stock market is heating up and signaling the return of the bulls, as evidenced by fresh all-time highs in the S&P 500 and a rally across risk assets like Bitcoin and gold. Fueled by booming innovation in artificial intelligence, speculative capital is flowing back into equities in a big way. For investors, it may be time to go hunting for the next big investments.

The S&P 500 broke out to new records this week, finally surpassing the previous highs set back in January 2022 before last year’s punishing bear market. The large-cap index closed at 5233 on Thursday, up over 28% year-to-date. This demonstrates that the decade-plus bull run that began after the 2008 financial crisis may have refreshed legs under it.

The strength comes as AI mania has gripped Wall Street and Main Street. The smash success of OpenAI’s ChatGPT triggered a cascade of investors plowing capital into AI startups and tech giants racing to deploy advanced language models and machine learning systems. Cathie Wood’s Ark Invest funds, which load up on disruptive innovation plays, have surged over 30% in 2023.

Even the traditionally cautious money managers are piling in. Just this week, e-commerce juggernaut Amazon announced a staggering $4 billion investment into AI research firm Anthropic. It shows the FANG giants remain at the vanguard of cutting-edge tech adoption and are more than willing to spend big to stay ahead of the curve.

The AI buzz has spurred a speculative frenzy not seen since the meme stock and SPAC manias of 2021. The heavy inflows, plus robust economic data, have pushed U.S. stock indexes to their most overbought levels since the rally out of the pandemic lows. Technical indicators suggest more volatility and pullbacks could be in store, but the trend remains firmly bullish for now.

The buying spree has spilled over into other risk assets like cryptocurrencies and gold. Bitcoin soared above $70,000 recently to its highest levels ever. The original crypto has rallied over 70% in 2023 as institutions warm back up to the space and the AI buzz rekindles visions of decentralized Web3 applications and business models.

Not to be outdone, gold has surpassed $2,200 per ounce and is trading at levels far greater than what was seen in 2020 during the pandemic turmoil. Bullion is benefiting from growing concerns over persistent inflation and fears the Federal Reserve could push the economy into recession as it keeps raising interest rates aggressively. The yellow metal is increasingly seen as a haven in times of economic and banking system stress.

Combined, the advancing prices and frothy trading action point to the return of the animal spirits last seen at the height of the Robinhood/Reddit meme stock craze from two years ago. Caution is certainly warranted, as downside risk remains with growing chances of an economic hard landing from the Fed’s inflation fight.

But the market often climbs a wall of worry, and the blowout action indicates speculators are back in full force. For investors able to navigate the volatility, this may be an ideal time to put capital to work and research the next big opportunities to ride the bull’s coattails.

As ARK’s Cathie Wood stated, “Given the breakthroughs in AI broadly, we believe we are living in the most profound period of commercial invention ever.” Profound invention tends to create extreme investment returns for those with the foresight to invest early in transformative technologies.

For investors searching for the potential 100-baggers of tomorrow across sectors like AI, quantum computing, biotech, fintech, and cybersecurity, buying dips and dollar-cost averaging into high-conviction positions could pay massive dividends down the road. The market mania may only be just beginning.

Snail (SNAL) – Nearing The Berth Of Ark

Posted on April 3, 2024April 3, 2024 by cpereira@noblefcm.com

Wednesday, April 03, 2024

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

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

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

Noisy Q4 results. The company reported Q4 revenue of $28.6 million, below our estimate of $31.6 million. Adj. EBITDA for the quarter was $3.6 million, substantially lower than our estimate of $12.4 million. The results were driven by higher than expected deferred revenue and engine fees. Notably, deferred revenue will be recognized as DLC packages included in the sale of ARK: Survival Ascended (ASA) are released.

Deferred revenue recognition. The deferred ASA revenue will be split evenly across the five DLCS that are included in the game and recognized as the DLCs are released. Three of the DLCs included in ASA will be released in 2024 (Q2, Q3, Q4) with the remaining two expected in 2025. Simply put, revenues are being deferred, but not all of the associated costs are being deferred.

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

Onconova Therapeutics (ONTX) – Transaction Forms A New Company In Virology and Oncology

Posted on April 3, 2024April 3, 2024 by cpereira@noblefcm.com

Wednesday, April 03, 2024

Onconova Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on discovering and developing novel products for patients with cancer. The Company has proprietary targeted anti-cancer agents designed to disrupt specific cellular pathways that are important for cancer cell proliferation. Onconova’s novel, proprietary multi-kinase inhibitor narazaciclib (formerly ON 123300) is being evaluated in a combination trial with estrogen blockade in advanced endometrial cancer. Based on preclinical and clinical studies of CDK 4/6 inhibitors, Onconova is also evaluating opportunities for combination studies with narazaciclib in additional indications. Onconova’s product candidate rigosertib is being studied in multiple investigator-sponsored studies. These studies include a dose-escalation and expansion Phase 1/2a study of oral rigosertib in combination with nivolumab in patients with KRAS+ non-small cell lung cancer, a Phase 2 program evaluating rigosertib monotherapy in advanced squamous cell carcinoma complicating recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (RDEB-associated SCC), and a Phase 2 trial evaluating rigosertib in combination with pembrolizumab in patients with metastatic melanoma.

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

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

Onconova Merges With Trawsfynydd Therapeutics To Form Traws Pharma, Inc. Onconova announced a business combination with Trawsfynydd Therapeutics, a private company developing products for influenza and COVID-19. The new company will be called Traws Pharma Inc, and will add antivirals to narazaciclib and rigosertib. Upon completion, it will raise $14 million in a private placement to bring its cash balance to about $28 million.

Combination Brings New Drugs With Several Near Term Milestones. Trawsfynydd brings antiviral drugs for influenza and COVID-19. TRX100 (viroksavir) inhibits the cap-dependent endonuclease required by the influenza virus for replication. Preclinical studies have shown efficacy against wild-type virus and strains that have resistance to current drugs. It has completed Phase 1, with data showing safety, tolerability, and pharmacokinetics that have potential dosing advantages. A dose-extension study will evaluate two increased doses. Following dose selection, Phase 2 is expected to begin in 2H24.

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