ATLANTA, Oct. 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — DLH Holdings Corp. (NASDAQ: DLHC) (“DLH” or the “Company”), a leading provider of digital transformation and cybersecurity, systems engineering and integration, and science research and development, today announced that it has achieved Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) Level 2.
The CMMC Program is designed to enforce the protection of sensitive unclassified information shared by the Department of Defense (DoD) with its contracting base.
To achieve Level 2 certification, DLH was required to complete a rigorous audit which verified compliance with over one hundred security requirements outlined by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), to confirm the Company’s ability to secure national defense data.
“This achievement validates DLH’s ability to carry out national security missions with efficiency, security, and agility,” said Zach Parker, DLH President & CEO. “Customers know that DLH leverages its core capabilities and commercial best practices to deploy resilient systems which are built to withstand the rigors of the modern threat environment.”
CMMC 2.0 requirements are expected to begin appearing in new DoD solicitations as early as November 2025. Achieving this certification positions DLH to compete for new business across the federal contracting landscape.
About DLH
DLH (NASDAQ: DLHC) enhances technology, public health, and cyber security readiness missions through science, technology, cyber, and engineering solutions and services. Our experts solve some of the most complex and critical missions faced by customers today, leveraging digital transformation, artificial intelligence, advanced analytics, cloud-based applications, telehealth systems, and more. With a world-class workforce dedicated to the idea that “Your Mission is Our Passion,” DLH brings a unique combination of technology, innovation, and world-class expertise, to improve lives across the globe. For more information, visit www.DLHcorp.com.
Safe Harbor Statement under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995:
This press release may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements relate to future events or DLH`s future financial performance. Any statements that refer to expectations, projections or other characterizations of future events or circumstances or that are not statements of historical fact (including without limitation statements to the effect that the Company or its management “believes”, “expects”, “anticipates”, “plans”, “intends” and similar expressions) should be considered forward looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties which could cause actual events or DLH’s actual results to differ materially from those indicated by the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements in this release include, among others, statements regarding estimates of future revenues, operating income, earnings and cash flow. These statements reflect our belief and assumptions as to future events that may not prove to be accurate. Our actual results may differ materially from such forward-looking statements made in this release due to a variety of factors, including: the risk that we will not realize the anticipated benefits of acquisitions (including anticipated future financial performance and results); the diversion of management’s attention from normal daily operations of the business and the challenges of managing larger and more widespread operations; the inability to retain employees and customers; contract awards in connection with re-competes for present business and/or competition for new business; our ability to manage our debt obligations; compliance with bank financial and other covenants; changes in client budgetary priorities; government contract procurement (such as bid and award protests, small business set asides, loss of work due to organizational conflicts of interest, etc.) and termination risks; the impact of inflation and higher interest rates; and other risks described in our SEC filings. For a discussion of such risks and uncertainties which could cause actual results to differ from those contained in the forward-looking statements, see “Risk Factors” in the Company’s periodic reports filed with the SEC, including our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2024 as well as subsequent reports filed thereafter. The forward-looking statements contained herein are not historical facts, but rather are based on current expectations, estimates, assumptions and projections about our industry and business.
Such forward-looking statements are made as of the date hereof and may become outdated over time. The Company does not assume any responsibility for updating forward-looking statements, except as may be required by law.
FOCUS is a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover pilot study evaluating Tonix’s investigational intranasal potentiated oxytocin products in patients with Arginine-Vasopressin Deficiency (AVP-D)
The trial is intended to generate preliminary data to inform future potential clinical studies of oxytocin replacement therapy in AVP-D
CHATHAM, N.J., Oct. 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Tonix Pharmaceuticals Holding Corp. (Nasdaq: TNXP) (“Tonix” or the “Company”), a fully integrated biotechnology company with marketed products and a pipeline of development candidates, today announced that the first patient has been dosed in the investigator-initiated FOCUS study (NCT04789148) at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) in adult patients with arginine-vasopressin deficiency (AVP-D), a rare endocrine disorder associated with oxytocin deficiency and adverse mental health outcomes, formerly known as central diabetes insipidus.
“Patients with AVP-D often experience mental health and quality-of-life challenges that are not adequately addressed by current interventions,” said Seth Lederman, M.D., Chief Executive Officer of Tonix Pharmaceuticals. “Oxytocin plays an important role in regulating mood and socioemotional functioning, and evidence suggests that AVP-D is associated with oxytocin deficiency. We are pleased to support the FOCUS study at MGH, which will evaluate our investigational intranasal potentiated oxytocin products (TNX-1900/TNX-2900) in this population and may help lay the groundwork for future studies of oxytocin replacement therapy.”
“The FOCUS study uses a randomized, placebo-controlled crossover design that enables within-patient comparisons of placebo and investigational intranasal potentiated oxytocin product at different doses,” said Elizabeth Lawson, M.D., M.M.Sc., principal investigator of the study and Director, Interdisciplinary Oxytocin Research Program in the Neuroendocrine Unit, Department of Medicine at MGH. “This approach will provide critical first data to inform future larger-scale clinical trials for patients with AVP-D. Ultimately, our goal is to generate insights that can lead to better treatments and improved quality of life for patients living with this condition.”
The FOCUS study (Feasibility of Oxytocin for Clinical Use and Socioemotional wellbeing) is a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover pilot study that will evaluate single-dose investigational intranasal potentiated oxytocin product at two different doses (6 IU, TNX-2900 and 24 IU, TNX-1900) on markers of anxiety, depression, and socioemotional functioning in patients with AVP-D, formerly known as central diabetes insipidus. An exploratory analysis will assess the effects of two weeks of the investigational products replacement on mental health outcomes.
About Tonix’s Potentiated Oxytocin Platform (TNX-1900 and TNX-2900) TNX-1900 and TNX-2900 are based on Tonix’s patented intranasal Mg2+-potentiated oxytocin formulations. Both are drug-device combination products, each with an intranasal actuator device that delivers oxytocin into the nasal cavity. TNX-1900 is a proprietary formulation of oxytocin in development as a candidate for prevention of chronic migraine and other conditions. TNX-2900 is in development for use by children and adolescents with Prader-Willi syndrome. The formulations will also be developed for craniofacial pain conditions. Tonix has a license with the University of Geneva for the use of the intranasal potentiated oxytocin products in the treatment of insulin resistance and related conditions. The addition of magnesium to the oxytocin formulation enhances oxytocin receptor binding1,2 as well as oxytocin’s inhibitory effects on trigeminal neurons and resultant craniofacial analgesic effects, as demonstrated in animal models3. Intranasal oxytocin has been shown to be well tolerated in several clinical trials in both adults and children3. Targeted nasal delivery results in low systemic exposure4,5 and lower risk of non-CNS, off-target effects. Oxytocin is a naturally occurring human peptide hormone that also acts as a neurotransmitter within the central nervous system (CNS). It is believed to be more than 600 million years old and is present in vertebrates including mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and fish. Oxytocin also has no recognized addiction potential. It was initially approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration as Pitocin®, an intravenous infusion or intramuscular injection drug, for use in pregnant women to induce labor and control postpartum bleeding or hemorrhage. An intranasal formulation of oxytocin is marketed in some European countries to assist in breast milk production as Syntocinon® (oxytocin nasal 40 international units/ml).
1Meyerowitz JG, et al. Nat Struct Mol Biol. 2022. 29(3):274-281. 2Bharadwaj VN, et al. Pharmaceutics. 2022 14(5):1105. 3Bharadwaj VN, et al. Pharmaceutics. 2021. Jul 16;13(7):1088. 4Yeomans, DC et al. 2017. US patent US2017368095 5Shafer SL, et al. Br J Anaesth. 2025. 134(5):1513-1522.
Investigator-Initiated Studies Using TNX-1900 at Mass General Hospital (MGH) In addition to the recently initiated FOCUS study, Dr. Lawson has three other ongoing investigator-initiated trials using TNX-1900.
The STROBE (STRategy of Oxytocin for Binge Eating) study is a Phase 2 randomized, double blind, placebo-controlled study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of TNX-1900 for the treatment of binge-eating disorder in adults. The 8-week trial has a target enrollment of at least 60 participants 18-70 years old with binge-eating. Subjects are randomized to receive TNX-1900 or placebo and are studied at MGH. Subjects self-administer TNX-1900 or placebo as two sprays total (one spray in each nostril) up to four times per day for 8 weeks. The primary endpoint is 8-week change from baseline in binge frequency. For more information, see ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05664516.
The POWER (Pediatric Oxytocin Weight and Energy Research) study is a Phase 2 randomized, double blind, placebo-controlled study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of TNX-1900 for the treatment of pediatric obesity. The 12-week trial has a target enrollment of 75 participants 12-18 years old with obesity (BMI ≥95th percentile for age and gender). Subjects are randomized to receive TNX-1900 or placebo. Subjects self-administer TNX-1900 or placebo as two sprays total (one spray in each nostril) before meals and at bedtime for 12 weeks. The primary endpoint is 12-week change in body mass index standard deviation score (BMI-SDS) versus placebo. For more information, see ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04551482.
The BOX (Bone Oxytocin) study is a Phase 2, randomized, placebo-controlled study to evaluate the effects of twice daily administration of TNX-1900 on bone measures in children with autism spectrum disorder. Study subjects, ages six to 18 years old, are randomized 1:1 to receive TNX-1900 twice per day or placebo for 12 months in the double-blind phase, followed by a six-month open label phase during which all study subjects receive TNX-1900 twice daily. The primary endpoint is the difference between TNX-1900 compared to placebo groups in 12-month change in whole body (less head bone) mineral density Z-scores. A Z-score compares one’s bone density to the average bone density of age and sex matched controls. For more information, see ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05754073.
Tonix Pharmaceuticals Holding Corp.* Tonix Pharmaceuticals is a fully-integrated biotechnology company with marketed products and a pipeline of development candidates. Tonix has received FDA approval for Tonmya™, a first-in-class, non-opioid analgesic medicine for the treatment of fibromyalgia, a chronic pain condition that affects millions of adults. This marks the first approval for a new prescription medicine for fibromyalgia in more than 15 years. Tonix also markets two treatments for acute migraine in adults. Tonix’s development portfolio is focused on central nervous system (CNS) disorders, immunology, immuno-oncology, rare disease and infectious disease. TNX-102 SL is being developed to treat acute stress reaction and acute stress disorder under a Physician-Initiated IND at the University of North Carolina in the OASIS study funded by the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD). TNX-102 SL is also in development for major depressive disorder. Tonix’s immunology development portfolio consists of biologics to address organ transplant rejection, autoimmunity and cancer, including TNX-1500, which is an Fc-modified humanized monoclonal antibody targeting CD40-ligand (CD40L or CD154) being developed for the prevention of allograft rejection and for the treatment of autoimmune diseases. Tonix’s rare disease portfolio includes TNX-2900, intranasal oxytocin potentiated with magnesium, in development for Prader-Willi syndrome. Tonix’s infectious disease portfolio includes TNX-801, a vaccine in development for mpox and smallpox, as well as TNX-4800, a monoclonal antibody for the seasonal prevention of Lyme Disease. Finally, TNX-4200 for which Tonix has a contract with the U.S. DoD’s Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) for up to $34 million over five years, is a small molecule broad-spectrum antiviral agent targeting CD45 for the prevention or treatment of infections to improve the medical readiness of military personnel in biological threat environments. Tonix owns and operates a state-of-the art infectious disease research facility in Frederick, Md.
* Tonix’s product development candidates are investigational new drugs or biologics; their efficacy and safety have not been established and have not been approved for any indication.
This press release and further information about Tonix can be found at www.tonixpharma.com.
Forward Looking Statements Certain statements in this press release are forward-looking within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements may be identified by the use of forward-looking words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “forecast,” “estimate,” “expect,” and “intend,” among others. These forward-looking statements are based on Tonix’s current expectations and actual results could differ materially. There are a number of factors that could cause actual events to differ materially from those indicated by such forward-looking statements. These factors include, but are not limited to, risks related to the failure to successfully launch and commercialize Tonmya and any of our approved products; risks related to the failure to obtain FDA clearances or approvals and noncompliance with FDA regulations; risks related to the timing and progress of clinical development of our product candidates; our need for additional financing; uncertainties of patent protection and litigation; uncertainties of government or third party payor reimbursement; limited research and development efforts and dependence upon third parties; and substantial competition. As with any pharmaceutical under development, there are significant risks in the development, regulatory approval and commercialization of new products. Tonix does not undertake an obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement. Investors should read the risk factors set forth in the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on March 18, 2025, and periodic reports filed with the SEC on or after the date thereof. All of Tonix’s forward-looking statements are expressly qualified by all such risk factors and other cautionary statements. The information set forth herein speaks only as of the date thereof.
TONMYA is indicated for the treatment of fibromyalgia in adults.
CONTRAINDICATIONS
TONMYA is contraindicated:
In patients with hypersensitivity to cyclobenzaprine or any inactive ingredient in TONMYA. Hypersensitivity reactions may manifest as an anaphylactic reaction, urticaria, facial and/or tongue swelling, or pruritus. Discontinue TONMYA if a hypersensitivity reaction is suspected.
With concomitant use of monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors or within 14 days after discontinuation of an MAO inhibitor. Hyperpyretic crisis seizures and deaths have occurred in patients who received cyclobenzaprine (or structurally similar tricyclic antidepressants) concomitantly with MAO inhibitors drugs.
During the acute recovery phase of myocardial infarction, and in patients with arrhythmias, heart block or conduction disturbances, or congestive heart failure.
In patients with hyperthyroidism.
WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS
Embryofetal toxicity: Based on animal data, TONMYA may cause neural tube defects when used two weeks prior to conception and during the first trimester of pregnancy. Advise females of reproductive potential of the potential risk and to use effective contraception during treatment and for two weeks after the final dose. Perform a pregnancy test prior to initiation of treatment with TONMYA to exclude use of TONMYA during the first trimester of pregnancy.
Serotonin syndrome: Concomitant use of TONMYA with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), tricyclic antidepressants, tramadol, bupropion, meperidine, verapamil, or MAO inhibitors increases the risk of serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition. Serotonin syndrome symptoms may include mental status changes, autonomic instability, neuromuscular abnormalities, and/or gastrointestinal symptoms. Treatment with TONMYA and any concomitant serotonergic agent should be discontinued immediately if serotonin syndrome symptoms occur and supportive symptomatic treatment should be initiated. If concomitant treatment with TONMYA and other serotonergic drugs is clinically warranted, careful observation is advised, particularly during treatment initiation or dosage increases.
Tricyclic antidepressant-like adverse reactions: Cyclobenzaprine is structurally related to TCAs. TCAs have been reported to produce arrhythmias, sinus tachycardia, prolongation of the conduction time leading to myocardial infarction and stroke. If clinically significant central nervous system (CNS) symptoms develop, consider discontinuation of TONMYA. Caution should be used when TCAs are given to patients with a history of seizure disorder, because TCAs may lower the seizure threshold. Patients with a history of seizures should be monitored during TCA use to identify recurrence of seizures or an increase in the frequency of seizures.
Atropine-like effects: Use with caution in patients with a history of urinary retention, angle-closure glaucoma, increased intraocular pressure, and in patients taking anticholinergic drugs.
CNS depression and risk of operating a motor vehicle or hazardous machinery: TONMYA monotherapy may cause CNS depression. Concomitant use of TONMYA with alcohol, barbiturates, or other CNS depressants may increase the risk of CNS depression. Advise patients not to operate a motor vehicle or dangerous machinery until they are reasonably certain that TONMYA therapy will not adversely affect their ability to engage in such activities.
Oral mucosal adverse reactions: In clinical studies with TONMYA, oral mucosal adverse reactions occurred more frequently in patients treated with TONMYA compared to placebo. Advise patients to moisten the mouth with sips of water before administration of TONMYA to reduce the risk of oral sensory changes (hypoesthesia). Consider discontinuation of TONMYA if severe reactions occur.
ADVERSE REACTIONS
The most common adverse reactions (incidence ≥2% and at a higher incidence in TONMYA-treated patients compared to placebo-treated patients) were oral hypoesthesia, oral discomfort, abnormal product taste, somnolence, oral paresthesia, oral pain, fatigue, dry mouth, and aphthous ulcer.
DRUG INTERACTIONS
MAO inhibitors: Life-threatening interactions may occur.
Other serotonergic drugs: Serotonin syndrome has been reported.
CNS depressants: CNS depressant effects of alcohol, barbiturates, and other CNS depressants may be enhanced.
Tramadol: Seizure risk may be enhanced.
Guanethidine or other similar acting drugs: The antihypertensive action of these drugs may be blocked.
USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS
Pregnancy: Based on animal data, TONMYA may cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. The limited amount of available observational data on oral cyclobenzaprine use in pregnancy is of insufficient quality to inform a TONMYA-associated risk of major birth defects, miscarriage, or adverse maternal or fetal outcomes. Advise pregnant women about the potential risk to the fetus with maternal exposure to TONMYA and to avoid use of TONMYA two weeks prior to conception and through the first trimester of pregnancy. Report pregnancies to the Tonix Medicines, Inc., adverse-event reporting line at 1-888-869-7633 (1-888-TNXPMED).
Lactation: A small number of published cases report the transfer of cyclobenzaprine into human milk in low amounts, but these data cannot be confirmed. There are no data on the effects of cyclobenzaprine on a breastfed infant, or the effects on milk production. The developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mother’s clinical need for TONMYA and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed child from TONMYA or from the underlying maternal condition.
Pediatric use: The safety and effectiveness of TONMYA have not been established.
Geriatric patients: Of the total number of TONMYA-treated patients in the clinical trials in adult patients with fibromyalgia, none were 65 years of age and older. Clinical trials of TONMYA did not include sufficient numbers of patients 65 years of age and older to determine whether they respond differently from younger adult patients.
Hepatic impairment: The recommended dosage of TONMYA in patients with mild hepatic impairment (HI) (Child Pugh A) is 2.8 mg once daily at bedtime, lower than the recommended dosage in patients with normal hepatic function. The use of TONMYA is not recommended in patients with moderate HI (Child Pugh B) or severe HI (Child Pugh C). Cyclobenzaprine exposure (AUC) was increased in patients with mild HI and moderate HI compared to subjects with normal hepatic function, which may increase the risk of TONMYA-associated adverse reactions.
Please see additional safety information in the full Prescribing Information.
To report suspected adverse reactions, contact Tonix Medicines, Inc. at 1-888-869-7633, or the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch.
DALLAS, Oct. 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Twin Hospitality Group Inc. (“Twin Hospitality”) (Nasdaq: TWNP), the parent company of Twin Peaks Restaurant and Smokey Bones, is pleased to announce that Noble Capital Markets has initiated company-sponsored equity research coverage on the Company. The full report by Noble Capital Markets Senior Research Analyst, Joe Gomes, as well as news and advanced market data on Twin Hospitality, is available on Channelchek.
FAT Brands Inc. (NASDAQ: FAT) served as the parent company that executed the strategic spin-out of Twin Hospitality Group earlier this year, separating its Twin Peaks and Smokey Bones restaurant brands into Twin Hospitality Group Inc.
About Twin Hospitality Group Inc.:
Twin Hospitality Group Inc. (NASDAQ: TWNP) is a restaurant company that strategically develops, operates, and franchises specialty casual dining restaurant concepts with a goal of redefining the casual dining category with its experiential-driven brands, Twin Peaks and Smokey Bones. Twin Peaks, known as the ultimate sports lodge, is an award-winning restaurant and sports bar brand with 114 locations across 27 states and Mexico and is known for its made-from-scratch food, 29-degree draft beer, innovative cocktail program and sports on wall-to-wall televisions. Smokey Bones is a full-service, meat-centric restaurant brand and concept with 45 locations, across 15 states specializing in ribs and a variety of other slow-smoked, fire-grilled and seared meats, along with a full bar. For more information, please visit www.twinpeaksrestaurant.com.
About Noble Capital Markets:
Established in 1984, Noble Capital Markets is an SEC / FINRA registered full-service investment bank and advisory firm with an award-winning research team and proprietary investor distribution platform. We deliver middle market expertise to entrepreneurs, corporations, financial sponsors, and investors. Over the past 40 years, Noble has raised billions of dollars for companies and published more than 45,000 equity research reports.
About Channelchek:
Noble launched www.channelchek.com in 2018 – an investor community dedicated exclusively to public emerging growth and their industries. Channelchek is the first service to offer institutional-quality research to the public, for FREE at every level without a subscription. More than 7,000 public emerging growth companies are listed on the site, and content including equity research, webcasts, and industry articles.
WEST HARRISON, N.Y.–(BUSINESS WIRE)– Sky Harbour Group Corporation (NYSE: SKYH, SKYH WS) (“SHG” or the “Company”), an aviation infrastructure company building the first nationwide Home Base Operator (HBO) network of campuses for business aircraft, announced the release of its unaudited financial results for the three months ended June 30, 2025 on Form 10-Q. The Company also announced the filing of its unaudited financial results for the three months ended June 30, 2025 for Sky Harbour Capital (Obligated Group) with MSRB/EMMA. Please see the following links to access the filings:
Financial Highlights on a Consolidated Basis include:
Constructed assets and construction in progress reached over $295 million at quarter end, an increase of $125 million year-over-year and $18 million as compared to the prior quarter.
Q2 2025 consolidated revenues increased 82% as compared to Q2 2024 and 18% as compared to the prior quarter.
Net cash used in operating activities was approximately $0.9 million for the quarter, a significant improvement from the $5 million used in prior quarter.
Strong liquidity and capital resources as of June 30th, 2025, with consolidated cash and US Treasuries totaling nearly $75 million.
Reiterating our guidance of reaching operating cash-flow breakeven on a consolidated run-rate basis by year-end 2025, supported by the commencement of revenues from campuses in Phoenix, Denver, Dallas and Seattle.
Financial Highlights at Sky Harbour Capital (Obligated Group) include:
Q2 2025 Obligated Group Revenues increased approximately 20% as compared to the prior quarter.
Net cash from operating activities (positive) reached approximately $2.2 million in Q2 2025, a 117% increase from the prior quarter.
Cash and US Treasuries at the Obligated Group totaled $37 million as of June 30th, 2025.
Update on Site Acquisition
Sky Harbour currently has campuses operating at Houston’s Sugar Land Regional Airport (SGR), Nashville International Airport (BNA), Miami Opa-Locka Executive Airport (OPF), San Jose Mineta International Airport (SJC), Camarillo Airport (CMA), Phoenix Deer Valley Airport (DVT), Dallas’s Addison Airport (ADS), Seattle’s King County International Airport – Boeing Field (BFI); one campus nearing construction completion at Denver’s Centennial Airport (APA); campuses in pre-development at Chicago Executive Airport (PWK), Sky Harbour’s first four New-York-metro area airports – Bradley International Airport (BDL), Hudson Valley Regional Airport (POU), Trenton-Mercer Airport (TTN), and Stewart International Airport (SWF); Orlando Executive Airport (ORL), Dulles International Airport (IAD), Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC), and Portland-Hillsboro Airport (HIO).
We reiterate our prior guidance of five additional airport ground leases to be announced by the end of 2025, for a total portfolio of 23 airports by year end.
Update on Construction and Development Activities, Change in Development Leadership
As reported on our monthly activity reports filed with MSRB/EMMA, and available on our website, Dallas Addison (ADS) achieved its first Certificates of Occupancy in Q2 and has commenced resident flight operations. Denver Centennial (APA) achieved its first Certificates of Occupancy last month and will commence resident flight operations in the coming weeks. Please see the following link for the last monthly construction report:
Miami Opa Locka (OPF) Phase 2 commenced construction in Q2 and is expected to be completed by Q2 2026.
Outgoing COO, Will Whitesell, who led the Company’s construction division, has entered an amicable separation agreement with the Company and has assisted in an orderly transfer of his responsibilities. The Company is grateful for Will’s commitment and his contributions and wishes him much success in his future endeavors.
Phil Amos, a 40-year veteran of the Pre-Engineered Metal Building (PEMB) industry, and co-founder of A&F Contractors, has joined Sky Harbour as Head of Construction and President of Sky Harbour’s newly-formed, wholly-owned development subsidiary, Ascend Aviation Services (“Ascend”). Ascend brings specialized airport construction-management and in-house General Contracting capabilities to Sky Harbour. Ascend is headquartered in Houston, TX, and staffed by veterans of the airport construction industry around the United States, including legacy members of the Sky Harbour development team. In addition to its construction management and general contracting functions, Ascend oversees the operations of Stratus Building Systems, Sky Harbour’s wholly-owned PEMB manufacturing subsidiary. Ascend and Stratus together constitute a vertically-integrated, specialized airport infrastructure developer. Mr. Amos, while at A&F, served as the general contractor for Sky Harbour’s first hangar campus at Sugar Land Regional Airport, which was delivered on time and under budget.
Update on Leasing Activities
Stabilized campuses: The Company continues to enjoy higher-than-forecast revenue per square foot at its stabilized campuses. Revenue per square foot continues to grow as legacy hangar leases turn or are renewed.
New campuses: The Company has executed the first six hangar leases at its new Denver, Dallas and Phoenix campuses, and is under LOI for additional leases. The Company expects to meet its revenue run-rate targets at the new campuses within six months.
Pre-leasing: The Company has initiated a pilot project at two airports – Bradley International Airport (BDL) and Dulles International Airport (IAD) to pre-lease hangar space prior to construction commencement. The objective is to take advantage of growing awareness of the Sky Harbour HBO value proposition within the US Business Aviation industry to a) reduce lease-up times, b) better curate resident communities, and c) integrate customized resident improvements during construction (as opposed to retrofitting). Hangar leases have been executed at both airports at revenue rates that present an introductory pricing advantage to pre-lease residents while still delivering above-target per-square-foot revenue to the Company. Additional pre-leases are under LOI.
Update on Airport Operations
As of Q3, the Company is conducting flight operations at nine airports.
Under the leadership of Marty Kretchman, Senior Vice President of Airports, the company has transitioned to a centralized operating model, featuring National Directors of Line Training; Facilities; and Ground Support Equipment (GSE).
Surveys of current residents indicate that Sky Harbour’s HBO service offering has become a key differentiating component of the Sky Harbour value proposition. The Company plans to continue to invest in constant improvement in airfield operations, through selective recruiting, rigorous training, detailed and thoughtful operating procedures, and constant innovation in collaboration with Sky Harbour residents.
Update on Capital Formation
After several quarters of “dual tracking” the review of various debt funding alternatives and proposals, the Company has decided to pursue a tax-exempt bank debt facility in lieu of a bond issue.
We are currently in advanced discussions with a major US financial institution for an expected five (5) year drawdown construction facility of $200 million, with an expected indicative interest rate of 80% of 3-month SOFR plus 200 basis points (~5.47% in the current market).
Our debt financing plan is to fund the next 5-6 airport projects using this facility and internal equity. The Company expects to replace this facility with permanent tax-exempt bonds in the next 3-4 years. We expect to close the facility on or about August 28th. However, we can provide no assurance on exact terms or the timing of this facility.
Tal Keinan commented: “As Sky Harbour navigates the transition from a tactical team, emphasizing agility, innovation and flexibility, to a high-growth organization, increasingly embracing process, discipline and specialization, five constants will continue to guide our leadership: 1) Obsessive focus on the Resident, 2) Commitment to building long-term shareholder value, 3) Uncompromising pursuit of professional excellence, 4) Cost-efficiency, and 5) Individual ownership of results. We value the reputation we are building in business aviation and intend to continue building it for years to come.”
About Sky Harbour
Sky Harbour Group Corporation is an aviation infrastructure company developing the first nationwide network of Home-Basing campuses for business aircraft. The company develops, leases, and manages general aviation hangar campuses across the United States. Sky Harbour’s Home-Basing offering aims to provide private and corporate residents with the best physical infrastructure in business aviation, coupled with dedicated service, tailored specifically to based aircraft, offering the shortest time to wheels-up in business aviation. To learn more, visit www.skyharbour.group.
Forward Looking Statements
Certain statements made in this release are “forward looking statements” within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including statements about the financial condition, results of operations, earnings outlook and prospects of SHG, including statements regarding our expectations for future results, our expectations for future ground leases, our expectations on future construction and development activities and lease renewals, and our plans for future financings. When used in this press release, the words “plan,” “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “outlook,” “estimate,” “forecast,” “project,” “continue,” “could,” “may,” “might,” “possible,” “potential,” “predict,” “should,” “would” and other similar words and expressions (or the negative versions of such words or expressions) are intended to identify forward-looking statements, but the absence of these words does not mean that a statement is not forward-looking. The forward-looking statements are based on the current expectations of the management of Sky Harbour Group Corporation (the “Company”) as applicable and are inherently subject to uncertainties and changes in circumstances. These forward-looking statements involve a number of risks, uncertainties or other assumptions that may cause actual results or performance to be materially different from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. For more information about risks facing the Company, see the Company’s annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024 and other filings the Company makes with the SEC from time to time. The Company’s statements herein speak only as of the date hereof, and the Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.
Key Performance Indicators
We use a number of metrics, including annualized revenue run rate per leased rentable square foot, to help us evaluate our business, measure our performance, identify trends affecting our business, formulate business plans, and make strategic decisions. Our key performance indicators may be calculated in a manner different than similar key performance indicators used by other issuers. These metrics are estimated operating metrics and not projections, nor actual financial results, and are not indicative of current or future performance.
Will Commemorate Milestone by Ringing the Nasdaq Closing Bell on October 23, 2025
NEW YORK–(BUSINESS WIRE)– Vince Holding Corp., (Nasdaq: VNCE) (“VNCE” or the “Company”), a global contemporary retailer, will begin trading today on The Nasdaq Stock Market LLC (“Nasdaq”) following its voluntary transfer from the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol “VNCE”. To celebrate this milestone, the Company will ring the Nasdaq Closing Bell on October 23, 2025.
“We are thrilled to begin this exciting new chapter on Nasdaq—a milestone that celebrates both our incredible team and our company’s distinguished legacy of delivering understated luxury and timeless quality to customers,” said Brendan Hoffman, Chief Executive Officer of VNCE. “This transition reflects our continued growth trajectory as we remain on track with our objectives and continue to see nice momentum across the business today as we execute on our strategic vision. We couldn’t be more proud to ring the Nasdaq Closing Bell and showcase the remarkable transformation and the bright future we have ahead.”
The Nasdaq Closing Bell ceremony will be broadcast live starting at approximately 3:45 p.m. Eastern Time from the Nasdaq MarketSite Tower in New York City. A live stream of the Nasdaq Closing Bell will be available at: https://www.nasdaq.com/marketsite/bell-ringing-ceremony under Bell Ceremony Events at the bottom of the page.
ABOUT VINCE HOLDING CORP. Vince Holding Corp. is a global retail company that operates the Vince brand women’s and men’s ready to wear business. Vince, established in 2002, is a leading global luxury apparel and accessories brand best known for creating elevated yet understated pieces for every day effortless style. Vince Holding Corp. operates 46 full-price retail stores, 14 outlet stores, and its e-commerce site, vince.com, as well as through premium wholesale channels globally. Please visit www.vince.com for more information.
This press release contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements generally are identifiable by use of the words “may,” “believe,” “expect,” “intend,” “plan to,” “estimate,” “project” or similar expressions. Investors are cautioned that such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risk and uncertainties. Though we believe that expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, we can give no assurance that such expectation will prove to be correct. Actual results may differ materially from the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors. These and other risk factors are discussed in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including those set forth under “Risk Factors” and “Disclosures Regarding Forward-Looking Statements” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended February 1, 2025 and, if applicable, our Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and our Current Reports on Form 8-K. All forward-looking statements included in this press release are expressly qualified in their entirety by such cautionary statements. We expressly disclaim any obligation to update, amend or clarify any forward-looking statement to reflect events, new information or circumstances occurring after the date of this press release except as required by applicable law.
The evolving relationship between the Trump administration and major pharmaceutical giants like Pfizer and Eli Lilly is reshaping the U.S. biotech and pharmaceutical sectors in unexpected ways. As President Trump’s approach to drug pricing and distribution intensifies, investors are watching closely to see whether these changes will threaten Big Pharma’s profit margins—or set the stage for a new era of growth for smaller, more innovative companies.
One of the most notable policy shifts has been the Trump administration’s overt encouragement—or at least acceptance—of large pharmaceutical firms selling directly to consumers. This “TrumpRx” strategy is a radical departure from the conventional system involving intermediaries and pharmacy benefit managers. On one hand, such a model could potentially drive efficiency and lower costs for some patients. On the other hand, it stirs up considerable uncertainty about how much profit large firms like Pfizer and Eli Lilly can preserve in an environment where pricing pressure and regulatory scrutiny are rising.
For investors focused on the biotech sector, the uncertain impact on Big Pharma profits is neither an all-out negative nor a clear positive. Recent developments, including public negotiations between the Trump administration and pharmaceutical leaders, have left markets feeling neutral in their outlook. There’s a sense that the sector may finally be heading into a period of relative stability after years of headlines about aggressive price controls and disruptive policy threats.
But questions linger: If legislative and regulatory changes ultimately compress profit margins for giants like Pfizer and Eli Lilly, how much will these incumbents be willing to invest in breakthrough innovation? Big Pharma’s research budgets have long been a cornerstone of biotech progress, underwriting everything from gene therapies to next-generation cancer drugs. If these resources dwindle, will smaller players have to pick up the slack—or could this shift clear the runway for young, ambitious biotech companies to rise?
Some analysts argue that a direct-to-consumer environment and tighter financial discipline for industry leaders could empower small and mid-cap biotech firms. Unlike their larger rivals, these companies are often leaner, faster-moving, and more reliant on outside partnerships and licensing deals to bring new therapies to market. With Big Pharma potentially becoming more selective in its investments, nimble startups may find themselves with new opportunities to innovate, collaborate, and even become acquisition targets.
Ultimately, the Trump administration’s evolving stance toward pharmaceutical profits and the direct selling model may serve as a stabilizing force in the sector—at least in the short term. Investors will need to monitor how major policy decisions translate to bottom-line impacts, R&D spending, and future innovation. While uncertainty remains, the potential for small-cap biotech firms to thrive in the coming years has rarely looked more compelling. For patient investors, this environment could prove fertile ground for discovering the next generation of biotech trailblazers.
Mark Reichman, Managing Director, Equity Research Analyst, Natural Resources, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.
Hans Baldau, Associate Analyst, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.
Refer to the full report for the price target, fundamental analysis, and rating.
Century produces high-purity lithium hydroxide. Century Lithium produced its first samples of lithium hydroxide from lithium carbonate derived from Angel Island’s lithium claystone deposit and treated at its demonstration plant using the company’s patent-pending alkaline leach and direct lithium extraction (DLE) process. Century had previously focused on making lithium carbonate. By producing high-purity lithium hydroxide, Century has demonstrated an ability to produce another major lithium product for the domestic market.
Pursuing a direct lithium conversion process. Lithium hydroxide samples were produced onsite in a batch process using conventional liming conversion with calcium hydroxide to produce lithium hydroxide with a purity level of 99.5% or greater. Century is pursuing a direct lithium conversion (DLC) process to produce lithium hydroxide directly from lithium chloride solution, which would bypass producing lithium carbonate in an intermediate stage to simplify the process and reduce energy consumption and operating costs.
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.
Joe Gomes, CFA, Managing Director, Equity Research Analyst, Generalist , Noble Capital Markets, Inc.
Refer to the full report for the price target, fundamental analysis, and rating.
Initiation. We are initiating equity research coverage on Twin Hospitality Group with an Outperform rating and $10 price target. Twin Hospitality is a franchisor and operator of two specialty casual dining restaurant concepts: Twin Peaks and Smokey Bones. The Company is a high-growth, asset light restaurant franchisor with a compelling franchisee value proposition, in our view. On January 29, 2025, parent company FAT Brands distributed approximately 5% of Twin Hospitality Class A shares to FAT Brands shareholders, bringing Twin Hospitality public.
A Premium Sports Bar Leader. Twin Hospitality currently operates approximately 115 Twin Peaks locations, consisting of 35 Company-owned and 80 franchised units. Twin Peaks offers a differentiated sports bar experience, from the lodge experience, to its signature 28-degree draft beer, a made-from-scratch menu, always-on wall-to-wall TVs, to the Twin Peaks Ambassadors, every customer receives an experience differentiated from the competition.
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.
Graham Corporation designs, manufactures and sells critical equipment for the energy, defense and chemical/petrochemical industries. The Company designs and manufactures custom-engineered ejectors, vacuum pumping systems, surface condensers and vacuum systems. It is a nuclear code accredited fabrication and specialty machining company. It supplies components used inside reactor vessels and outside containment vessels of nuclear power facilities. Its equipment is found in applications, such as metal refining, pulp and paper processing, water heating, refrigeration, desalination, food processing, pharmaceutical, heating, ventilating and air conditioning. For the defense industry, its equipment is used in nuclear propulsion power systems for the United States Navy. The Company’s products are used in a range of industrial process applications in energy markets, including petroleum refining, defense, chemical and petrochemical processing, power generation/alternative energy and other.
Joe Gomes, CFA, Managing Director, Equity Research Analyst, Generalist , Noble Capital Markets, Inc.
Refer to the full report for the price target, fundamental analysis, and rating.
An Acquisition. Yesterday, after the market close, Graham announced the acquisition of certain specified assets of Xdot Bearing Technologies (“Xdot”), a specialized consulting, design, and engineering firm focused on foil bearing technology. While the acquisition price was not revealed, Graham noted Xdot has annual sales of approximately $1 million and is expected to be slightly accretive to the Company’s fiscal year 2026 GAAP net income.
Xdot. Xdot has developed and patented a breakthrough foil bearing design that delivers superior performance while lowering development and production costs. Xdot’s products are complementary to the existing product portfolio of Graham’s Barber-Nichols (BN) subsidiary and will expand capabilities within BN. Notably, Dr. Erik Swanson, Founder, President, and Chief Engineer of Xdot is a world renowned expert in foil bearing analysis, application, and fabrication and will join the BN team upon closing.
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.
Minerva Neurosciences (Nasdaq: NERV) has put itself firmly back in the spotlight, announcing one of the largest small-cap biotech financings of 2025. The Massachusetts-based clinical-stage company will receive up to $200 million to fund a confirmatory Phase 3 trial and commercial launch preparation for roluperidone, a promising therapy targeting the often-overlooked negative symptoms in schizophrenia patients. The initial $80 million arrives up front, with further tranches contingent on study milestones, offering NERV investors rare clinical and regulatory visibility at a critical inflection point.
This private placement, due to close October 23, includes $80 million upfront through Series A Convertible Preferred Stock and up to $80 million more if Tranche A warrants are fully exercised, plus a potential $40 million linked to subsequent milestone events. The offering is led by Vivo Capital with support from several prominent healthcare investors, suggesting the market sees real value in roluperidone’s regulatory progress.
But unlike many small caps, which struggle with dilutive equity raises or uncertain funding, Minerva’s staged, milestone-driven deal structure means investors can track clinical and regulatory progress directly to additional capital inflows. Warrants are only unlocked if the trial meets its statistically significant 12-week endpoint, keeping capital efficiently aligned to risk.
Minerva has achieved a notable alignment with the FDA on its confirmatory trial protocol for roluperidone, targeting negative symptoms—a significant unmet need in schizophrenia treatment. Negative symptoms, such as social withdrawal or loss of motivation, often persist even with current antipsychotics, representing a billion-dollar market where no competitor is FDA-approved. Minerva’s confirmatory Phase 3 design will use a randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled format, tracking the PANSS Marder negative symptoms factor score as a primary endpoint over 12 weeks.
This clarity on regulatory requirements and a defined path for NDA resubmission is crucial for investors, lowering typical clinical-stage risk and increasing confidence in eventual market entry. The company has committed resources for trial expansion and is already preparing for a U.S. commercial launch, signaling an advanced state of readiness pending approval.
In addition to the funding, Minerva plans to strengthen its board with up to three new directors experienced in schizophrenia trials, further supporting robust clinical execution. Investors will also appoint a Scientific Advisory Board dedicated to trial oversight, ensuring best practices and direct accountability to stakeholders.
With shares already up over 150% for the year, Minerva now stakes its future on one pivotal readout. For small cap-focused investors, NERV offers rare transparency on trial financing, regulatory alignment, and near-term commercial prospects—key ingredients for outsized returns but also heightened binary risk typical of biotech.
As Minerva initiates its confirmatory Phase 3 trial and prepares for NDA resubmission, sector watchers will track not just headline efficacy results, but also enrollment metrics, board appointments, and potential warrant triggers. For investors tolerant of volatility and seeking direct exposure to major clinical milestones, Minerva’s fully funded path towards solving negative symptoms in schizophrenia could prove a defining bet in the 2025 biotech landscape.
In a move with broad implications for the future of global supply chains and the defence technology sector, President Donald Trump and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese have signed a new agreement on critical minerals. This collaboration was unveiled at the White House on October 20, 2025, and establishes a formal partnership with a project pipeline that could reach $8.5 billion.
Though the White House described the agreement as a framework, officials in both countries confirmed immediate capital is forthcoming for key initiatives. Over the next six months alone, the agreement will facilitate joint investments of more than $3 billion, with Australia and the U.S. directly contributing at least $1 billion in the near term. Much of this funding will be deployed into advanced processing and mining projects focused on rare earths and other critical minerals essential for high-tech manufacturing and defence, including electric vehicles, robotics, and semiconductors.
The U.S. Export-Import Bank is prepared to offer at least $2.2 billion in letters of interest for project loans, which could unlock up to $5 billion in further investment. Alcoa and other major industrial players are already involved, with a particular emphasis on new rare earths separation facilities and a gallium refinery in Western Australia. The Pentagon is backing the gallium project, targeting a refinery output of 100 metric tons annually, a move that will significantly enhance non-Chinese supply for this vital semiconductor and electronics material.
This agreement comes as the global race to secure critical minerals intensifies. China continues to dominate rare earth processing and recently implemented strict export controls, escalating trade tensions with the U.S. and its allies. The new U.S.–Australia framework marks a decisive shift away from Chinese supply chain dependence and signals a new era of industrial cooperation between Western allies.
The market outlook is robust: rare earths and related minerals are used in everything from precision-guided missile systems to wind turbines and next-generation batteries. With rising geopolitical risk and acute supply chain vulnerabilities exposed, government-backed efforts like this one are set to redefine project financing and resource development models. The pipeline also includes a three-country venture involving the U.S., Australia, and Japan, integrating expertise and industrial capacity across the Pacific.
From the investor’s perspective, the partnership is about more than near-term capital flows. It reflects a “friend-shoring” philosophy, rerouting core inputs for modern industrial economies through trusted democratic partners. This is expected to benefit not only major participants like Alcoa but also small and micro-cap mining companies able to secure public or strategic backing for projects in Australia and allied regions. With the right execution, these upstream investments could set the stage for renewed growth and improved supply security throughout the clean energy and technology sectors
October 20, 2025 – Vancouver, Canada – Century Lithium Corp. (TSXV: LCE) (OTCQX: CYDVF) (Frankfurt: C1Z) (“Century Lithium” or “the Company”) is pleased to announce that the Company’s Lithium Extraction Facility (“Demonstration Plant”) in Amargosa Valley, Nevada, USA, has produced for its first time lithium hydroxide from lithium carbonate derived from the Company’s 100%-owned Angel Island lithium project, located near Silver Peak, Nevada.
“The lithium hydroxide samples produced by our team represent another important milestone for the Company,” said Bill Willoughby, President and CEO of Century Lithium. “Up until this point, Century’s efforts have focused on making lithium carbonate as the end product for Angel Island. By producing high-purity lithium hydroxide, we show that Angel Island can supply another major lithium product for the domestic market.”
The lithium hydroxide samples were produced from lithium carbonate derived from Angel Island’s lithium claystone deposit and treated at the Demonstration Plant using Century Lithium’s patent-pending alkaline leach and Direct Lithium Extraction (“DLE”) process. The lithium hydroxide samples were produced on-site in a batch process using conventional liming conversion with calcium hydroxide to make high-purity, +99.5% lithium hydroxide.
The Company is also pursuing a direct lithium conversion (“DLC”) process to produce lithium hydroxide directly from lithium chloride solution. Such a process would thereby bypass lithium carbonate as an intermediate stage, simplify operations, and reduce energy consumption and operating costs.
With the demand for mobile and stationary energy storage growing, Century Lithium’s project at Angel Island is strategically positioned as the United States seeks a reliable domestic source of critical materials. Lithium carbonate is an essential component for LFP batteries, while lithium hydroxide is needed for high-energy-density NMC/NCA batteries. By demonstrating the potential to produce both, Angel Island stands out as a potential key contributor to American energy independence and a resilient battery supply chain.
Qualified Person
Todd Fayram, MMSA-QP and Senior Vice President, Metallurgy of Century Lithium is the qualified person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 and has approved the technical information in this release.
ABOUT CENTURY LITHIUM CORP.
Century Lithium Corp. is an advanced-stage lithium company, focused on developing its 100%-owned lithium project Angel Island in Esmeralda County, Nevada, which hosts one of the largest sedimentary lithium deposits in the United States. The Company has utilized its patent-pending process for chloride leaching combined with direct lithium extraction to make battery-grade lithium carbonate product samples from Angel Island’s lithium-bearing claystone at its Demonstration Plant in Amargosa Valley, Nevada.
Angel Island is one of the few advanced lithium projects in development in the United States to provide an end-to-end process to produce battery-grade lithium carbonate for the growing electric vehicle and battery storage market. Angel Island is currently in the permitting stage for a three-phase feasibility-level production plan, expected to yield an estimated life-of-mine average of 34,000 tonnes per year of lithium carbonate over a 40-year mine-life.
Century Lithium trades on both the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol “LCE” and the OTCQX under the symbol “CYDVF”, and on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange under the symbol “C1Z”.
NEITHER THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THE CONTENT OF THIS NEWS RELEASE.
This release contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. In certain cases, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as “plans”, “expects” or “does not anticipate”, or “believes”, or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “might” or “will be taken”, “occur” or “be achieved” and similar expressions suggesting future outcomes or statements regarding an outlook.
Forward-looking statements relate to any matters that are not historical facts and statements of our beliefs, intentions and expectations about developments, results and events which will or may occur in the future, without limitation, statements with respect to the potential development and value of the Project and benefits associated therewith, statements with respect to the expected project economics for the Project, such as estimates of life of mine, lithium prices, production and recoveries, capital and operating costs, IRR, NPV and cash flows, any projections outlined in the Feasibility Study in respect of the Project, the permitting status of the Project and the Company’s future development plans.
These and other forward-looking statements and information are subject to various known and unknown risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the ability of the Company to control or predict, that may cause their actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied thereby, and are developed based on assumptions about such risks, uncertainties and other factors set out herein.These risks include those described under the heading “Risk Factors” in the Company’s most recent annual information form and its other public filings, copies of which can be under the Company’s profile at www.sedarplus.com. The Company expressly disclaims any obligation to update forward-looking information except as required by applicable law. No forward-looking statement can be guaranteed, and actual future results may vary materially. Accordingly, readers are advised not to place reliance on forward-looking statements or information. Furthermore, Mineral Resources that are not Mineral Reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability.
HBT Financial, Inc. (NASDAQ: HBT) announced a definitive agreement to acquire CNB Bank Shares, Inc. (OTC: CNBN) in a cash-and-stock deal valued at roughly $170.2 million, marking a significant strategic expansion in the community banking space. The transaction reflects HBT’s disciplined growth model and highlights continued consolidation among Midwest-based financial institutions.
The merger, expected to close in the first quarter of 2026, will create a combined company with about $6.9 billion in total assets, $4.7 billion in loans, and $5.9 billion in deposits. Post-closing, the new banking entity will operate 84 branches throughout Illinois, eastern Iowa, and Missouri—furthering HBT’s regional diversification across key metropolitan markets, including Chicago and St. Louis.
Transaction Structure and Valuation
Under the terms of the agreement, CNBN shareholders can elect to receive 1.0434 shares of HBT stock, $27.73 in cash per share, or a mix of both, subject to allocation limits. Based on HBT’s 15-day volume weighted average price of $24.44 as of October 17, 2025, the transaction equates to an implied purchase price of $25.92 per CNBN share. Upon completion, former CNBN shareholders will collectively own roughly 15% of HBT’s outstanding common stock.
The deal’s all-in valuation represents a prudent premium relative to CNBN’s recent trading levels while allowing HBT to fund the acquisition through a balanced consideration structure. The merger’s financial terms suggest a price-to-tangible book ratio in the 1.45x–1.55x range, consistent with recent peer transactions in the community banking sector.
Strategic Rationale and Market Outlook
For HBT, the acquisition deepens its deposit base in central Illinois and expands its reach into higher-growth urban corridors. It also enhances scale—both economically and operationally—adding efficiency to product distribution and technology deployment. CNB’s strong commercial loan portfolio and stable funding mix are expected to complement HBT’s disciplined credit culture, supporting accretive earnings growth post-integration.
Management expects the transaction to be additive to HBT’s earnings per share within the first full year after closing, with modest tangible book value dilution that can be earned back within a reasonable timeframe. The company’s strong capital position and consistent profitability metrics provide flexibility to absorb integration costs and offset potential short-term pressures.
On CNBN’s side, the merger offers shareholders liquidity through the NASDAQ-listed HBT stock and participation in a larger, more diversified Midwestern franchise. The combination should also benefit CNB’s customers through expanded product offerings and access to broader operational resources.
Leadership and Governance
To maintain local continuity, HBT has agreed to appoint CNBN directors James T. Ashworth and Nancy Ruyle to the boards of HBT Financial and Heartland Bank and Trust Company. The alignment of leadership under HBT’s community-first philosophy is expected to ease cultural integration—a critical factor in regional bank mergers.
Bottom Line
HBT’s acquisition of CNB Bank Shares continues its steady M&A track record, marking its eleventh transaction since 2007. By combining two relationship-focused institutions with complementary footprints, the deal strengthens HBT’s positioning in an increasingly competitive small and mid-cap financial landscape. For investors, it reinforces HBT’s strategy of measured expansion and capital discipline, positioning the company for sustainable earnings growth across Midwest markets.
