Key Points: – Bond yields spiked sharply this week, raising concerns about higher borrowing costs for small-cap companies. – Small-caps are more rate-sensitive, but the sell-off may be overdone and could present buying opportunities. – Long-term investors may benefit from focusing on quality small-cap names with strong fundamentals and domestic exposure.
A dramatic spike in long-term bond yields shook financial markets this week, sending investors scrambling as the 10-year Treasury yield soared past 4.5%, marking its biggest weekly surge since 2021. The 30-year yield rose even more sharply, posting its largest weekly gain since 1982. The sell-off was driven by a mix of sticky inflation, trade policy uncertainty, and a volatile geopolitical landscape — all amplified by President Trump’s ongoing tariff saga.
Yet while the headlines have centered on fear, especially around rising borrowing costs and global capital flows, there’s more nuance in the story for small-cap stocks.
It’s true that small-caps are uniquely exposed to changes in financial conditions. Many of these companies carry floating-rate debt and operate on thinner margins, making them more vulnerable to interest rate shocks. As bond yields rise, funding gets more expensive — and for firms that rely on access to capital markets, that’s a real pressure point.
But it’s also true that small-caps tend to be early-cycle performers. Historically, when markets reprice aggressively like this, they often overshoot. And while volatility can punish smaller names in the short term, it also tends to present opportunity — especially for companies with solid fundamentals and nimble management teams that can adapt quickly to shifting economic conditions.
The Russell 2000, the primary small-cap index, has already fallen more than 20% from its November highs, technically entering a bear market. But that also means much of the negative sentiment may already be priced in — a potential setup for a bounce once bond markets stabilize and investor focus shifts back to fundamentals.
Additionally, while the bond market’s sharp move has understandably rattled equity investors, some of the pressure may prove temporary. If the Federal Reserve sees the spike in yields as overdone — or if inflation data continues to soften — rate cuts could be back on the table. Futures markets are still pricing in up to four cuts by year-end, which could ease financial conditions and provide meaningful support to small-cap valuations.
The current environment is undoubtedly challenging, but small-caps have weathered worse and bounced back stronger. If volatility persists, it could open the door to selectively adding quality small-cap names at compelling valuations.
Nutriband granted patent protecting its AVERSA abuse deterrent platform technology in Macao, a Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China
April 11, 2025 07:00 ET
ORLANDO, Fla., April 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Nutriband Inc. (NASDAQ:NTRB)(NASDAQ:NTRBW), a company engaged in the development of prescription transdermal pharmaceutical products, today announced that it has received notification that its patent has been granted in Macao for its patent entitled, “Abuse and Misuse Deterrent Transdermal Systems,” which protects its AVERSA™ abuse deterrent transdermal technology.
The Macao Intellectual Property Office granted patent J/9010 on February 11, 2025 as recorded in Macao Official Bulletin No. 10 on March 5, 2025. Macao is a Special Administrative Region (SAR) of the People’s Republic of China that has its own patent system and patent laws which are separate and distinct from those of mainland China.
The AVERSA™ abuse deterrent technology is now covered by a broad international intellectual property portfolio with patents issued in 46 countries including the United States, Europe, Japan, Korea, Russia, China, Canada, Mexico, and Australia as well as two regions of China: Hong Kong and Macao.
Nutriband’s AVERSA™ abuse-deterrent technology incorporates aversive agents into transdermal patches to prevent the abuse, diversion, misuse, and accidental exposure of drugs with abuse potential including opioids and stimulants. The AVERSA™ abuse-deterrent technology has the potential to improve the safety profile of transdermal drugs susceptible to abuse while making sure that these drugs remain accessible to those patients who really need them.
Nutriband is currently working with its partner Kindeva Drug Delivery, a leading global contract development and manufacturing organization focused on drug-device combination products, to develop its lead product, AVERSA™ Fentanyl, which incorporates Nutriband’s AVERSA™ abuse-deterrent transdermal technology into Kindeva’s FDA-approved transdermal fentanyl patch system.
AVERSA Fentanyl has the potential to be the world’s first abuse-deterrent opioid patch designed to deter the abuse and misuse and reduce the risk of accidental exposure of transdermal fentanyl patches. AVERSA Fentanyl has the potential to reach peak annual US sales of $80 million to $200 million.1
____________________________________________________ 1 Health Advances AVERSA Fentanyl market analysis report 2022
About AVERSA™ Abuse-Deterrent Transdermal Technology
Nutriband’s AVERSA™ abuse-deterrent transdermal technology incorporates aversive agents into transdermal patches to prevent the abuse, diversion, misuse, and accidental exposure of drugs with abuse potential. The AVERSA™ abuse-deterrent technology has the potential to improve the safety profile of transdermal drugs susceptible to abuse, such as fentanyl, while making sure that these drugs remain accessible to those patients who really need them. The technology is covered by a broad intellectual property portfolio with patents granted in the United States, Europe, Japan, Korea, Russia, China, Canada, Mexico, and Australia.
About Nutriband Inc.
We are primarily engaged in the development of a portfolio of transdermal pharmaceutical products. Our lead product under development is an abuse-deterrent fentanyl patch incorporating our AVERSA™ abuse-deterrent technology. AVERSA™ technology can be incorporated into any transdermal patch to prevent the abuse, misuse, diversion, and accidental exposure of drugs with abuse potential.
The Company’s website is www.nutriband.com. Any material contained in or derived from the Company’s websites or any other website is not part of this press release.
Forward-Looking Statements
Certain statements contained in this press release, including, without limitation, statements containing the words ‘’believes,” “anticipates,” “expects” and words of similar import, constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such forward-looking statements involve both known and unknown risks and uncertainties. The Company’s actual results may differ materially from those anticipated in its forward-looking statements as a result of a number of factors, including those including the Company’s ability to develop its proposed abuse-deterrent fentanyl transdermal system and other proposed products, its ability to obtain patent protection for its abuse technology, its ability to obtain the necessary financing to develop products and conduct the necessary clinical testing, its ability to obtain Federal Food and Drug Administration approval to market any product it may develop in the United States and to obtain any other regulatory approval necessary to market any product in other countries, including countries in Europe, its ability to market any product it may develop, its ability to create, sustain, manage or forecast its growth; its ability to attract and retain key personnel; changes in the Company’s business strategy or development plans; competition; business disruptions; adverse publicity and international, national and local general economic and market conditions and risks generally associated with an undercapitalized developing company, as well as the risks contained under “Risk Factors” and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” in the Company’s Form S-1, Form 10-K for the year ended January 31, 2024, filed May 1, 2024, the Forms 10-Q’s filed subsequent to the Form 10-K in 2024, and the Company’s other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Except as required by applicable law, we undertake no obligation to revise or update any forward-looking statements to reflect any event or circumstance that may arise after the date hereof.
NEW YORK, April 11, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Bit Digital, Inc. (Nasdaq: BTBT) (“Bit Digital” or the “Company”) announced today that it has secured the rights to a new data center site in Saint-Jérôme, Québec (“MTL-3”), which is under development and will support the previously announced 5MW colocation agreement with Cerebras Systems (“Cerebras”), a leader in generative AI infrastructure.
The facility spans approximately 202,000 square feet on 7.7 acres and is being developed to support current contracted capacity, with future expansion potential subject to utility approvals. The transaction was executed under a lease-to-own structure, which includes a fixed-price purchase option exercisable within 12 months. The lease term is 20 years, with two 5-year extension options.
The project is being delivered through WhiteFiber, Bit Digital’s high-performance computing platform. The facility is being retrofitted to Tier 3 standards, with development costs expected to total approximately CAD $55 million (approximately $40MM USD), and a targeted go-live date of July 2025.
“This milestone represents continued momentum in our strategy to deliver purpose-built AI infrastructure at scale,” said Sam Tabar, CEO of Bit Digital. “Speed to market is a key differentiator in the AI infrastructure space, and this site reflects our ability to mobilize and deliver capacity on accelerated timelines. We’re proud to advance our partnership with Cerebras while expanding our data center footprint in the greater Montréal region, a growing hub for AI innovation.”
Cerebras has contracted for 5MW (IT load) of built-to-suit infrastructure under a five-year colocation agreement announced in February 2025. Under the terms of the agreement, Cerebras holds a right of first refusal (ROFR) for any additional megawatt capacity that becomes available at the site.
About Bit Digital
Bit Digital, Inc. is a global platform for high-performance computing (“HPC”) infrastructure and digital asset production headquartered in New York City. The Company’s HPC business operates under the WhiteFiber Inc. (“WhiteFiber”) brand. Our operations are located in the US, Canada, and Iceland. For additional information, please contact ir@bit-digital.com or visit our website at www.bit-digital.com, or follow us on LinkedIn or X.
Investor Notice
Investing in our securities involves a high degree of risk. Before making an investment decision, you should carefully consider the risks, uncertainties and forward-looking statements described under “Risk Factors” in Item 1A of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024 (Annual Report). Notwithstanding the fact that Bit Digital Inc. has not conducted operations in the PRC since September 30, 2021 we have previously disclosed under Risk Factors in our Annual Report: “We may be subject to fines and penalties for any noncompliance with or any liabilities in our former business in China in a certain period from now on.” Although the statute of limitations for non-compliance by our former business in the PRC is generally two years and the Company has been out of the PRC, for more than two years, the Authority may still find its prior bitcoin mining operations involved a threat to financial security. In such event, the two-year period would be extended to five years. If any material risk was to occur, our business, financial condition or results of operations would likely suffer. In that event, the value of our securities could decline and you could lose part or all of your investment. The risks and uncertainties we describe are not the only ones facing us. Additional risks not presently known to us or that we currently deem immaterial may also impair our business operations. In addition, our past financial performance may not be a reliable indicator of future performance, and historical trends should not be used to anticipate results in the future. Future changes in the network-wide mining difficulty rate or bitcoin hash rate may also materially affect the future performance of Bit Digital’s production of bitcoin. Actual operating results will vary depending on many factors including network difficulty rate, total hash rate of the network, the operations of our facilities, the status of our miners, and other factors. See “Safe Harbor Statement” below.
Safe Harbor Statement
This press release may contain certain “forward-looking statements” relating to the business of Bit Digital, Inc., and its subsidiary companies. All statements, other than statements of historical fact included herein are “forward-looking statements.” These forward-looking statements are often identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as “believes,” “expects,” or similar expressions, involving known and unknown risks and uncertainties. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, they do involve assumptions, risks and uncertainties, and these expectations may prove to be incorrect. Investors should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this press release. The Company’s actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements as a result of a variety of factors, including those discussed in the Company’s periodic reports that are filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission and available on its website at http://www.sec.gov. All forward-looking statements attributable to the Company or persons acting on its behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by these factors. Other than as required under the securities laws, the Company does not assume a duty to update these forward-looking statements.
Saga Communications, Inc. is a broadcast company whose business is primarily devoted to acquiring, developing and operating radio stations. Saga currently owns or operates broadcast properties in 27 markets, including 79 FM and 33 AM radio stations. Saga’s strategy is to operate top billing radio stations in mid sized markets, defined as markets ranked (by market revenues) from 20 to 200. Saga’s radio stations employ a myriad of programming formats, including Active Rock, Adult Album Alternative, Adult Contemporary, Country, Classic Country, Classic Hits, Classic Rock, Contemporary Hits Radio, News/Talk, Oldies and Urban Contemporary. In operating its stations, Saga concentrates on the development of strong decentralized local management, which is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the stations in their market area and is compensated based on their financial performance as well as other performance factors that are deemed to effect the long-term ability of the stations to achieve financial objectives. Saga began operations in 1986 and became a publicly traded company in December 1992. The stock trades on NASDAQ under the ticker symbol “SGA”.
Michael Kupinski, Director of Research, Equity Research Analyst, Digital, Media & Technology , Noble Capital Markets, Inc.
Jacob Mutchler, Research Associate, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.
Refer to the full report for the price target, fundamental analysis, and rating.
Attractive opportunity. The SGA stock is down 48% over the past year, which we believe is largely due to macroeconomic uncertainty impacting advertising revenue and a digital segment that is still early in its development. With some of the noise related to the late filing and activist shareholders quelled for the time being, the company is fully focused on its growth strategy. Given that radio stocks typically experience early cycle recoveries, we believe investors should have the SGA shares on their radar screens.
Cost-effective digital growth strategy. A key focus of the company is reducing costs that have no impact on revenue and continuing to emphasize the roll out of its blended digital advertising strategy. Notably, the blended strategy combines radio and digital advertising to provide a consistent message to customers on both mediums and to drive radio listeners to digital platforms. We view the company’s emphasis on the unique strategy favorably.
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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).
Key Points: – U.S. inflation fell to 2.4% in March, below expectations, with core inflation hitting a four-year low at 2.8%. – A steep drop in energy prices and moderating shelter costs helped keep inflation contained. – Markets remain cautious as future inflation data may reflect new tariffs still under negotiation.
Inflation in the United States cooled more than expected in March, offering a temporary reprieve to consumers and policymakers alike. According to data released Thursday by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the Consumer Price Index (CPI) fell by 0.1% on a seasonally adjusted basis, bringing the 12-month inflation rate to 2.4%. That’s a notable drop from February’s 2.8% pace and well below Wall Street’s expectations of a 2.6% rise.
Core inflation, which excludes volatile food and energy categories, increased just 0.1% for the month. On an annual basis, core CPI is now running at 2.8% — its lowest level since March 2021. The data arrives at a pivotal moment, as the White House recalibrates its tariff strategy and the Federal Reserve weighs the timing of future rate cuts.
Energy prices played a major role in the softer inflation print. Gasoline prices slid 6.3% in March, driving a 2.4% overall drop in the energy index. Meanwhile, food prices remained a source of upward pressure, climbing 0.4% during the month. Egg prices, in particular, continued to surge — rising nearly 6% month-over-month and up more than 60% year-over-year.
Shelter costs, historically one of the stickiest inflation categories, also moderated. The index for shelter rose just 0.2% in March and was up 4% over the past year, the smallest annual increase since late 2021. Used vehicle prices declined by 0.7%, and new car prices ticked up just 0.1%, as the auto industry braces for the potential impact of upcoming tariffs.
Other notable categories showed price relief as well. Airline fares dropped by over 5% on the month, and prescription drug prices declined 2%. Motor vehicle insurance — which had been trending higher — dipped by 0.8%, offering additional breathing room to consumers.
Despite the favorable inflation data, market reaction was mixed. Stock futures pointed to a lower open on Wall Street, and Treasury yields slipped as investors weighed how this report would influence the Fed’s interest rate trajectory. Traders are still pricing in the likelihood of three to four rate cuts by the end of 2025, with expectations largely unchanged following the release.
The inflation report comes just a day after President Trump surprised markets by partially reversing his hardline tariff stance. While the administration left in place a blanket 10% duty on all imports, the more aggressive reciprocal tariffs set to take effect this week were paused for 90 days to allow for negotiations. Though tariffs historically fuel inflation by raising import costs, the delay adds new uncertainty to inflation forecasts for the months ahead.
While March’s CPI figures appear encouraging on the surface, economists caution that the full impact of trade policy changes has yet to be reflected in consumer prices. Analysts expect some upward pressure on inflation later in the year as tariffs work their way through the supply chain.
For now, the Fed appears to be in wait-and-see mode. With inflation easing and activity still soft, central bank officials face a delicate balancing act in the months ahead as they consider the dual risks of economic slowdown and renewed price pressures from trade tensions.
Key Points: – Gasoline prices are expected to fall by at least $0.15 per gallon in the coming weeks as crude oil remains near $60 per barrel. – Crude prices have dropped over $10 per barrel since early April amid U.S.-China trade tensions and OPEC+ production hikes. – Lower fuel costs are contributing to a broader cooling in inflation, with gasoline prices down nearly 10% year-over-year.
Gasoline prices across the U.S. are expected to decline in the coming weeks as oil prices continue to retreat following mounting trade tensions between the United States and China. With West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude now hovering near $60 per barrel and Brent just above $63, the pressure on oil markets appears to be translating directly into relief at the pump.
As of Friday, the national average gas price stood at $3.21 per gallon, according to AAA, down $0.05 from the previous week. While that remains $0.13 higher than a month ago due to seasonal refinery maintenance and the transition to summer gasoline blends, it is nearly $0.42 lower than prices this time last year. Analysts expect the trend to continue downward, barring any significant supply disruptions or geopolitical shocks.
Energy experts suggest the market’s sharp correction stems largely from fears that the intensifying U.S.-China trade standoff will curb global demand for crude. After President Trump’s surprise tariff announcement on April 2, oil prices plummeted more than $10 per barrel, erasing weeks of gains. A brief rebound following Trump’s 90-day pause on tariffs for most nations was short-lived, as the administration simultaneously increased duties on Chinese goods to a staggering 145%. Traders worry this escalation with China—the world’s largest importer of crude—could drag global consumption lower.
Adding to the bearish sentiment is the decision by the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and its allies (OPEC+) to raise production starting in May. The planned increase in output came sooner and more aggressively than markets had anticipated, further fueling concerns about oversupply in a slowing global economy.
According to Andy Lipow of Lipow Oil Associates, Americans could see gas prices fall by an additional $0.15 per gallon within the next two weeks, with further declines possible if crude prices remain subdued. His forecast echoes broader market sentiment that gasoline may even dip below the $3 mark, a level not seen consistently since early 2023.
Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy, noted that this year’s sharp divergence from typical seasonal trends has upended market expectations. While summer generally brings higher gas prices due to increased travel and more expensive fuel blends, the current geopolitical and macroeconomic environment has weakened those pressures. “We’ve never seen the status quo shift so significantly like this, and oil prices aren’t liking what’s going on,” he said.
The fall in fuel prices has also played a role in tempering inflation. Thursday’s Consumer Price Index report for March showed a 9.8% year-over-year drop in the gasoline index, helping to pull the broader energy index down by 3.3%. With inflation easing and gas prices declining, consumers could benefit from improved purchasing power, at least in the short term.
Still, much remains uncertain. The oil market continues to be at the mercy of political maneuvering and trade negotiations, with volatility likely to persist. For now, though, drivers can expect a bit of a break as the effects of falling oil prices filter through to gas stations nationwide.
Key Points: – Capri Holdings will sell Versace to Prada S.p.A. in a $1.375 billion cash deal expected to close in late 2025. – The sale enables Capri to strengthen its balance sheet and concentrate on growing Michael Kors and Jimmy Choo. – The acquisition enhances Prada’s luxury portfolio and signals continued consolidation in the global fashion industry.
Capri Holdings has announced it will sell iconic fashion house Versace to Prada S.p.A. in a definitive agreement valued at $1.375 billion in cash. The high-profile transaction, expected to close in the second half of 2025, marks a significant reshaping of the global luxury fashion sector. Subject to regulatory approvals and closing conditions, the deal positions Prada to deepen its dominance in the premium space, while allowing Capri to refocus on its other brands.
Founded in 1978 by Gianni Versace, the fashion house has grown into one of the most recognizable names in luxury, known for its bold design language and cultural impact. Since acquiring Versace in 2018, Capri Holdings has invested heavily in refining the brand’s positioning, emphasizing luxury heritage, craftsmanship, and elevated retail experiences. The sale to Prada follows these efforts, passing the baton to another iconic Italian fashion name capable of scaling Versace’s growth trajectory.
Capri CEO John D. Idol noted that the transaction supports the company’s broader strategy: strengthening its balance sheet, driving growth at Michael Kors and Jimmy Choo, and ultimately increasing shareholder value. The proceeds from the sale are expected to go toward business investments, debt reduction, and share repurchases—moves aimed at improving operational agility and long-term financial performance.
For Prada, this acquisition is one of the most aggressive moves by an Italian luxury group in years. It adds Versace’s strong global presence and diverse product portfolio—ranging from couture and ready-to-wear to accessories and home goods—to an already prestigious stable. Prada gains not just a household name, but also a brand with a deeply embedded pop culture footprint and a large international distribution network.
This development could have ripple effects for other players in the luxury and premium fashion segments. For example, Vince Holding Corp (NYSE: VNCE)—a U.S.-based contemporary luxury apparel brand—could find itself indirectly impacted by the consolidation trend that deals like this one exemplify. As larger fashion conglomerates streamline portfolios and shift capital toward high-growth opportunities, smaller players like Vince may face increased competitive pressure, or alternatively, may become potential acquisition targets themselves. With a focus on understated luxury and quality materials, Vince has a distinct niche, but in a market where scale and global brand recognition increasingly drive success, consolidation could continue to reshape the competitive landscape.
The Versace deal also reflects the broader evolution of fashion business models. With consumers leaning into experiential luxury and digitally-driven brand interactions, fashion houses are investing more in storytelling, exclusivity, and ecosystem control. This shift benefits well-capitalized operators like Prada who can absorb and scale established brands. It also raises questions about how standalone labels, particularly in the small-cap space, will adapt or partner to remain relevant.
Capri, meanwhile, will continue to focus on Michael Kors and Jimmy Choo, both of which are undergoing their own brand revitalization strategies. By narrowing its scope, Capri aims to maximize value from its remaining portfolio and deliver more targeted execution.
– Patient-reported outcomes from Phase 2 trial of oxylanthanum carbonate (OLC) demonstrate high patient satisfaction with OLC compared to their prior phosphate lowering therapy –
– Findings from a patient survey conducted in partnership with the National Kidney Foundation (NKF) showed excessive number and large size of phosphate binder pills to be top barriers to consistent medication use –
– Results to be presented in poster sessions at the NKF Spring Clinical Meetings –
LOS ALTOS, Calif., April 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Unicycive Therapeutics, Inc. (Nasdaq: UNCY), a clinical-stage biotechnology company developing therapies for patients with kidney disease, today announced new patient-reported outcomes data from its pivotal Phase 2 study of OLC as well as from a new survey conducted by the National Kidney Foundation (NKF) with sponsorship from Unicycive. OLC is an investigational treatment for hyperphosphatemia in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) on dialysis. The findings will be presented today in poster sessions at the NKF Spring Clinical Meetings taking place in Boston.
OLC leverages proprietary nanoparticle technology to reduce the number and size of pills that patients must take. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) accepted the New Drug Application (NDA) for OLC for the treatment of hyperphosphatemia in patients with CKD on dialysis and set a Prescription Drug User Fee Act (PDUFA) Target Action Date of June 28, 2025.
“As many as two out of three of patients with end-stage kidney disease undergoing dialysis don’t consistently adhere to their phosphate binder treatment; common barriers are side effects, pill burden, and unpalatable formulations,” said Dr. Pablo Pergola, MD, PhD, Research Director, Clinical Advancement Center, Renal Associates, P.A., and principal investigator for the UNI-OLC-201 trial. “These new patient-reported outcomes underscore the potential of OLC to enhance adherence, reduce treatment burden and improve patient satisfaction. OLC could be a welcome new phosphate binder choice for patients with hyperphosphatemia due to its favorable tolerability, small, easy-to-swallow size and low pill burden.”
Patient-Reported Outcomes Data Patient-reported outcomes from the open-label Phase 2 UNI-OLC-201 clinical trial compared patients’ satisfaction with their pre-trial phosphate binders versus OLC at the end of the study based on responses to a questionnaire completed by 80 patients. This research will be presented by Guru Reddy, PhD., in the poster titled “Patient-Reported Outcomes in a Pivotal Clinical Study of Hyperphosphatemia: Oxylanthanum Carbonate Reduces Pill Burden by Half and Improves Adherence” (Poster # G-018) on Thursday, April 10, from 5:15–7:30 p.m. ET.
Results:
OLC reduced pill burden by 50% – patients took a median of three tablets of OLC per day versus six tablets of phosphate binders prior to the trial.
OLC improved adherence – 70% of patients reported consistent adherence with OLC compared to 58% who reported adherence to their pre-trial phosphate binders.
OLC was preferred – 79% of patients indicated a preference for OLC versus 4% who preferred their pre-trial phosphate binder medications.
OLC improved patient satisfaction – 98% of patients agreed that OLC was easy to take versus 38% who said that about their pre-trial phosphate binder medication, and 89% reported they were satisfied with OLC treatment versus 49% who were satisfied with pre-trial phosphate binders.
Patient Survey Results In partnership with Unicycive, NKF conducted an online survey of patients undergoing dialysis to assess the top barriers to phosphate binder adherence and to better understand what treatment characteristics could improve adherence. A total of 200 patients aged 40 and older completed the online survey from February 15 to May 16, 2024. This research will be presented by Dr. Hill Gallant, PhD, RD, Associate Professor of Nutrition in the Department of Food Science and Nutrition at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, in a poster titled “Pill Burden and Large Tablet Size Are Key Barriers to Phosphate Binder Adherence in Dialysis Patients” (Poster # G-297) on Thursday, April 10, from 5:15-7:30 p.m. ET.
Results showed:
Forgetfulness (63%) was the primary barrier to consistent medication use followed by excessive pill number (47%) and large pill size (47%).
Additional barriers to adherence included difficulties carrying pills (45%), gastrointestinal side effects (29%), unpleasant taste (20%), social embarrassment when taking medication (13%), and cost (10%).
Patients were more likely to prefer medication regimens with fewer and smaller pills, underscoring the impact of pill burden on adherence.
About Oxylanthanum Carbonate (OLC) Oxylanthanum carbonate is a next-generation lanthanum-based phosphate binding agent utilizing proprietary nanoparticle technology being developed for the treatment of hyperphosphatemia in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). OLC has over forty issued and granted patents globally. Its potential best-in-class profile may have meaningful patient adherence benefits over currently available treatment options as it requires a lower pill burden for patients in terms of number and size of pills per dose that are swallowed instead of chewed. Based on a survey conducted in 2022, Nephrologists stated that the greatest unmet need in the treatment of hyperphosphatemia with phosphate binders is a lower pill burden and better patient compliance.1 The global market opportunity for treating hyperphosphatemia is projected to be in excess of $2.28 billion, with the North America accounting for more than $1 billion of that total.2 Despite the availability of several FDA-cleared medications, 75 percent of U.S. dialysis patients fail to achieve the target phosphorus levels recommended by published medical guidelines.3
Unicycive is seeking FDA approval of OLC via the 505(b)(2) regulatory pathway. The NDA submission package is based on data from three clinical studies (a Phase 1 study in healthy volunteers, a bioequivalence study in healthy volunteers, and a tolerability study of OLC in CKD patients on dialysis), multiple preclinical studies, and the chemistry, manufacturing and controls (CMC) data. OLC is protected by a strong global patent portfolio including issued patents on composition of matter with exclusivity until 2031, and with the potential for patent term extension until 2035.
About Hyperphosphatemia Hyperphosphatemia is a serious medical condition that occurs in nearly all patients with End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD). If left untreated, hyperphosphatemia leads to secondary hyperparathyroidism (SHPT), which then results in renal osteodystrophy (a condition similar to osteoporosis and associated with significant bone disease, fractures and bone pain); cardiovascular disease with associated hardening of arteries and atherosclerosis (due to deposition of excess calcium-phosphorus complexes in soft tissue). Importantly, hyperphosphatemia is independently associated with increased mortality for patients with chronic kidney disease on dialysis. Based on available clinical data to date, over 80% of patients show signs of cardiovascular calcification by the time they become dependent on dialysis.4
Dialysis patients are already at an increased risk for cardiovascular disease (because of underlying diseases such as diabetes and hypertension), and hyperphosphatemia further exacerbates this. Treatment of hyperphosphatemia is aimed at lowering serum phosphate levels via two means: (1) restricting dietary phosphorus intake; and (2) using, on a daily basis, and with each meal, oral phosphate binding drugs that facilitate fecal elimination of dietary phosphate rather than its absorption from the gastrointestinal tract into the bloodstream.
About Unicycive Therapeutics Unicycive Therapeutics is a biotechnology company developing novel treatments for kidney diseases. Unicycive’s lead drug candidate, oxylanthanum carbonate (OLC), is a novel investigational phosphate binding agent being developed for the treatment of hyperphosphatemia in chronic kidney disease patients on dialysis. Positive pivotal trial results were reported in June 2024 for OLC, and a New Drug Application (NDA) is under review by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) with a Prescription Drug User Fee Act (PDUFA) Target Action Date of June 28, 2025. OLC is protected by a strong global patent portfolio including an issued patent on composition of matter with exclusivity until 2031, and with the potential patent term extension until 2035 after OLC approval. Unicycive’s second asset, UNI-494, is a patent-protected new chemical entity in clinical development for the treatment of conditions related to acute kidney injury. UNI-494 has successfully completed a Phase 1 trial. For more information, please visit Unicycive.com and follow us on LinkedIn, X, and YouTube.
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 using words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “forecast,” “estimated” and “intend” or other similar terms or expressions that concern Unicycive’s expectations, strategy, plans or intentions. These forward-looking statements are based on Unicycive’s current expectations and actual results could differ materially. There are several 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, clinical trials involve a lengthy and expensive process with an uncertain outcome, and results of earlier studies and trials may not be predictive of future trial results; our clinical trials may be suspended or discontinued due to unexpected side effects or other safety risks that could preclude approval of our product candidates; risks related to business interruptions, which could seriously harm our financial condition and increase our costs and expenses; dependence on key personnel; substantial competition; uncertainties of patent protection and litigation; dependence upon third parties; and risks related to failure to obtain FDA clearances or approvals and noncompliance with FDA regulations. Actual results may differ materially from those indicated by such forward-looking statements as a result of various important factors, including: the uncertainties related to market conditions and other factors described more fully in the section entitled ‘Risk Factors’ in Unicycive’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024, and other periodic reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Any forward-looking statements contained in this press release speak only as of the date hereof, and Unicycive specifically disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
1Reason Research, LLC 2022 survey. Results here. 2 Fortune Business Insights™, Hyperphosphatemia Treatment Market, 2023-2030 3 US-DOPPS Practice Monitor, May 2021; http://www.dopps.org/DPM 4 Block GA, Klassen PS, Lazarus JM, Ofsthun N, Lowrie EG, Chertow GM. Mineral metabolism, mortality, and morbidity in maintenance hemodialysis. J Am Soc Nephrol. 2004 Aug;15(8):2208-18. doi: 10.1097/01.ASN.0000133041.27682.A2. PMID: 15284307.
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.
Michael Kupinski, Director of Research, Equity Research Analyst, Digital, Media & Technology , Noble Capital Markets, Inc.
Jacob Mutchler, Research Associate, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.
Refer to the full report for the price target, fundamental analysis, and rating.
Completes a private placement. The Company completed a private placement offering of two unsecured convertible promissory notes for a combined total of $3.3 million. The notes were sold at a 10% discount to the principal amount and will pay a 5% Paid-In-Kind (PIK) annualized dividend. The proceeds will be used to increase working capital to support its projects and game releases in 2025.
Convertible features. The notes are convertible into shares of Class A Common Stock at $5.00 on any trading day during the five trading days prior to the conversion date. The notes mature in February 2026. Interest to be Paid-In-Kind (PIK) on the convertible notes will begin May 2025 and will be paid in 10 equal payments.
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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.
Key Points: – Dow jumps over 2,500 points as Trump pauses new tariffs for most countries, offering relief to jittery investors. – U.S. tariffs on China rise to 125%, keeping trade tensions elevated despite broader reprieve. – Major tech stocks surge, with Nvidia, Tesla, and Apple among top gainers as markets bet on trade negotiations progressing.
U.S. stocks staged a historic rally on Wednesday after President Donald Trump announced a 90-day pause on new tariffs for most U.S. trade partners, easing investor fears of an imminent recession. The Dow Jones Industrial Average soared more than 2,500 points, or 7.3%, marking one of its largest single-day point gains on record. The S&P 500 jumped nearly 8%, while the tech-heavy Nasdaq rallied over 10% — its biggest percentage gain since 2008.
The market turnaround followed several volatile sessions driven by uncertainty surrounding Trump’s escalating tariff regime. Last week, broad-based levies sent stocks into a sharp correction, with the Nasdaq slipping into bear market territory and the S&P 500 teetering on the edge. The president’s announcement Wednesday came just as sentiment hit a breaking point, with record trading volumes and widespread calls for policy clarity.
On his Truth Social account, Trump stated that he had authorized a 90-day pause on new tariffs, reducing the baseline reciprocal duty to 10% during this period. However, he simultaneously raised tariffs on Chinese imports to 125%, signaling continued pressure on Beijing in the ongoing trade dispute. The announcement followed reports of active negotiations between the U.S. and over 70 countries, including South Korea and China, sparking hope that broader trade resolutions could be within reach.
Investors responded swiftly. Shares of major tech firms — many of which had been hit hard in recent weeks — led the rebound. Nvidia surged more than 15%, Tesla added 17%, and Apple, Amazon, and Meta each gained around 10%. The optimism also helped bring down market volatility, with the CBOE Volatility Index (VIX) dropping below 40 after reaching near-crisis levels above 60 earlier in the week.
The bond market reflected some caution, with the 10-year Treasury yield rising to 4.4% as investors rotated back into risk assets. Meanwhile, analysts and economists scrambled to reassess their outlooks. Goldman Sachs, which had just issued a call for a recession earlier in the day, revised its view within the hour following Trump’s tariff pause, now projecting modest GDP growth of 0.5% for 2025 and assigning a 45% probability to a recession.
Despite the market’s relief rally, uncertainty remains. China announced its own round of retaliatory tariffs on U.S. goods, set to take effect Thursday, further escalating tensions. Analysts noted that the 10% baseline tariff and steep levies on China remain in place, leaving room for continued volatility depending on how negotiations progress.
Investors also await more economic data to gauge the longer-term impact. Minutes from the Federal Reserve’s March meeting, due later Wednesday, and the upcoming Consumer Price Index report could further influence the outlook on inflation and monetary policy.
For now, however, markets are breathing a collective sigh of relief. The Trump administration’s pivot appears to have reinstated some faith that economic damage from aggressive tariff policies might still be contained if cooler heads prevail.
Key Points: – Stock buybacks are a powerful tool for small cap companies to boost shareholder value, signal confidence, and optimize capital allocation—especially in today’s cautious market environment. – Buybacks offer flexibility compared to dividends and can help correct market undervaluation by improving earnings per share (EPS) and supporting the stock price. – Noble Capital Markets’ trading desk provides specialized, compliant, and strategic execution of buyback programs tailored to small and microcap companies.
In today’s volatile and uncertain market environment, many small and microcap companies are turning to stock buybacks as a strategic lever to enhance shareholder value. While often associated with large-cap firms, stock repurchase programs are increasingly being utilized by emerging growth companies as a way to signal confidence, support their stock price, and optimize capital allocation.
So, what exactly is a stock buyback? Simply put, a buyback occurs when a company repurchases its own shares from the open market. These repurchased shares are either retired or held as treasury stock, effectively reducing the total number of shares outstanding. This reduction in share count can lead to higher earnings per share (EPS) and, in many cases, a stronger stock price performance over time.
For small cap companies, this strategy can be especially impactful. Many of these firms trade at valuations that don’t reflect their underlying fundamentals, often due to limited analyst coverage or lack of investor awareness. A well-timed and well-executed buyback program can help correct this disconnect by demonstrating to the market that the company believes its shares are undervalued. Moreover, it signals financial discipline and a commitment to returning value to shareholders.
In the current climate—marked by inflationary pressures, tighter capital markets, and cautious investor sentiment—stock buybacks can also offer an attractive alternative to dividends. Unlike dividends, which establish an expectation for recurring payouts, buybacks provide flexibility. Companies can scale buybacks based on available cash flow without committing to long-term distributions.
However, executing a buyback program, especially for smaller public companies, requires careful planning and compliance with regulatory frameworks such as Rule 10b-18 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. This is where the expertise of an experienced trading desk becomes essential.
Noble Capital Markets’ trading desk specializes in supporting small and microcap companies with customized buyback solutions. With decades of experience and deep market insight, Noble helps companies structure and implement repurchase programs that are efficient, compliant, and aligned with strategic objectives. From navigating trading volume restrictions to maintaining anonymity in the market, Noble’s trading professionals act as an extension of a company’s finance team, ensuring each transaction is executed with precision and discretion.
Noble’s focus on the emerging growth space makes them uniquely positioned to understand the challenges and opportunities facing smaller public companies. Their trading desk doesn’t just facilitate transactions—they provide strategic guidance on timing, liquidity management, and market perception. For companies considering a buyback, having a trusted partner like Noble Capital Markets can make all the difference in achieving desired outcomes.
Stock buybacks are more than just a capital return mechanism—they’re a signal of strength, confidence, and long-term vision. For small cap companies looking to enhance shareholder value in a complex market, partnering with an experienced trading desk like Noble’s is a smart and strategic move.
By The Comtech Editorial Team – Apr 9, 2025 | 2 min read
CHANDLER, Ariz. – April 9, 2025– Comtech Telecommunications Corp. (NASDAQ: CMTL) (“Comtech” or the “Company”), a global communications technology leader, announced today that Comtech Satellite Networks Technologies Corp., located in Montreal, Canada, recently completed initial deliveries of the Company’s next generation Very Small Aperture Terminal (“VSAT”) systems to a strategically significant allied Navy partner in the Asia Pacific (“APAC”) region.
The initial deliveries of Comtech’s VSAT systems mark an important milestone for a comprehensive Navy fleet modernization program. To support the program, Comtech’s next generation VSAT systems are being installed on a wide range of Naval platforms including ships, submarines, and ground-based stations to provide access to advanced multi-orbit satellite communications (“SATCOM”) capabilities across air, land, and sea domains.
“With nearly 60 years of experience designing and developing some of the most trusted VSAT systems in the industry, we remain committed to supporting our partner’s urgent operational requirements,” said Daniel Gizinski, President of Comtech’s Satellite & Space Communications Segment. “This important milestone builds on the trust we have established with a key military ally in the APAC region and further illustrates Comtech’s global leadership in next generation VSAT systems.”
Following months of rigorous testing and performance validation by the end customer, Comtech’s next generation VSAT systems were selected for full-rate production with deliveries continuing over a two-year period.
The next generation VSAT systems delivered to the APAC Navy partner are based on Comtech’s ELEVATE software-defined, multi-orbit VSAT technology. These systems include powerful IP traffic optimization technologies to mitigate delays inherent to SATCOM, mesh capabilities to allow shorter transmission latency with less bandwidth consumption, and spread spectrum techniques to reduce interference generated when transmitting from small antennas.
Comtech designs, develops, and delivers scalable, software-defined, multi-orbit satellite solutions and ground systems for leading satellite service providers, enterprise customers, and government partners around the world. Built on nearly 60 years of experience deploying field-proven VSAT SATCOM systems, Comtech remains committed to accelerating innovation to connect people across the globe with the best available networks on all SATCOM orbits.
About Comtech
Comtech Telecommunications Corp. is a leading provider of satellite and space communications technologies; terrestrial and wireless network solutions; Next Generation 911 (NG911) and emergency services; and cloud native capabilities to commercial and government customers around the world. Through its culture of innovation and employee empowerment, Comtech leverages its global presence and decades of technology leadership and experience to create some of the world’s most innovative solutions for mission-critical communications. For more information, please visit www.comtech.com.
Forward-Looking Statements
Certain information in this press release contains statements that are forward-looking in nature and involve certain significant risks and uncertainties. Actual results and performance could differ materially from such forward-looking information. The Company’s Securities and Exchange Commission filings identify many such risks and uncertainties. Any forward-looking information in this press release is qualified in its entirety by the risks and uncertainties described in such Securities and Exchange Commission filings.
Continues to Strengthen its Pandemic Preparedness and Biodefense Vaccine Portfolio
ATLANTA, GA, April 9, 2025 – GeoVax Labs, Inc. (Nasdaq: GOVX), a biotechnology company developing immunotherapies and vaccines against cancers and infectious diseases, today announced that the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) has issued a Notice of Allowance for Patent Application No. 18/394,555 titled “Replication-Deficient Modified Vaccinia Ankara (MVA) Expressing Marburg Virus Glycoprotein (GP) and Matrix Protein (VP40).” The allowed claims generally cover prevention of Marburg virus infection utilizing GeoVax’s proprietary MVA-based Marburg vaccine.
Previous presentations of data from nonhuman primate studies demonstrated that immunization with GeoVax’s vaccine candidate, GEO-MM01, conferred 80% survival in cynomolgus macaques following a lethal dose of Marburg virus. Vaccination protected from viremia, weight loss and death following challenge with a lethal Marburg virus dose. Evaluation of immune responses following vaccination demonstrated the presence of both neutralizing antibodies and functional T cells, indicating a breadth of responses that combine for optimal protection. GeoVax is currently evaluating study designs to assess the potential for administering different dose levels of the vaccine and different routes of vaccine delivery to optimize utility and efficacy.
David Dodd, GeoVax President and CEO, commented, “While our focus and development priorities continue to be our next-generation COVID-19 vaccine, our Mpox/smallpox vaccine and cancer immunotherapy programs, developing vaccines against lethal hemorrhagic fever viruses represents our commitment to addressing highly fatal endemic threats throughout the world. Such viruses have mortality rates between 50%-90% depending on the specific virus strain. Our team is committed to supporting the successful advancement of such a vaccine, as we recognize the critically important medical and biodefense need, reflected by the inclusion of Marburg virus in the FDA Priority Review Voucher program. Within the critically needed area of hemorrhagic fever viruses, GeoVax has successfully developed vaccine candidates addressing Ebola Zaire, Ebola Sudan and Marburg, all having demonstrated impressive results when evaluated in non-human primates. The USPTO’s recognition of our Marburg vaccine technology further validates our approach and underscores the growing value of our wholly owned, co-owned, and in-licensed intellectual property estate, now standing at over 135 granted or pending patent applications spread over 23 patent families.”
Dodd continued, “Our focus extends beyond individual product candidates—we are building a broad, durable defense platform against hemorrhagic fever viruses. We believe this strategy, supported by compelling preclinical data and prioritized by global health authorities, positions GeoVax to play a central role in pandemic preparedness and biodefense.”
About Marburg Virus
Marburg virus (MARV) is a hemorrhagic fever virus of the Filoviridae family, which also includes Ebola virus, and causes severe human disease with up to a 90% fatality rate. The Marburg virus is transmitted to people from fruit bats, and human-to-human transmission occurs through direct contact with bodily fluids, or contaminated surfaces and materials. MARV is rated by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a Risk Group 4 Pathogen. In the United States, the NIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases ranks it as a Category A Priority Pathogen and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention lists it as a Category A Bioterrorism Agent. MARV typically appears in sporadic outbreaks throughout Africa and the virus continues to pose potential public health and biodefense threats. There are currently no licensed vaccines or therapeutics against the diseases caused by MARV.
About the GeoVax MVA Platform
GeoVax’s vaccine platform utilizes modified vaccinia Ankara (MVA), a large virus capable of carrying several vaccine antigens, that expresses proteins that assemble into virus-like particles (VLP) immunogens in the person receiving the vaccine. The production of VLPs in the person being vaccinated can mimic the virus production that occurs in a natural infection, stimulating both the humoral and cellular arms of the immune system to recognize, prevent, and control the target infection. The MVA-VLP derived vaccines can elicit durable immune responses in the host similar to a live-attenuated virus, while providing the safety characteristics of a replication-defective vector.
About GeoVax
GeoVax Labs, Inc. is a clinical-stage biotechnology company developing novel vaccines for many of the world’s most threatening infectious diseases and therapies for solid tumor cancers. The company’s lead clinical program is GEO-CM04S1, a next-generation COVID-19 vaccine for which GeoVax was recently awarded a BARDA-funded contract to sponsor a 10,000-participant Phase 2b clinical trial to evaluate the efficacy of GEO-CM04S1 versus an approved COVID-19 vaccine. In addition, GEO-CM04S1 is currently in three Phase 2 clinical trials, being evaluated as (1) a primary vaccine for immunocompromised patients such as those suffering from hematologic cancers and other patient populations for whom the current authorized COVID-19 vaccines are insufficient, (2) a booster vaccine in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and (3) a more robust, durable COVID-19 booster among healthy patients who previously received the mRNA vaccines. In oncology the lead clinical program is evaluating a novel oncolytic solid tumor gene-directed therapy, Gedeptin®, having recently completed a multicenter Phase 1/2 clinical trial for advanced head and neck cancers. A Phase 2 clinical trial in first recurrent head and neck cancer, evaluating Gedeptin® combined with an immune checkpoint inhibitor is planned. GeoVax has a strong IP portfolio in support of its technologies and product candidates, holding worldwide rights for its technologies and products. The Company has a leadership team who have driven significant value creation across multiple life science companies over the past several decades. For more information about the current status of our clinical trials and other updates, visit our website: www.geovax.com.
Forward-Looking Statements
This release contains forward-looking statements regarding GeoVax’s business plans. The words “believe,” “look forward to,” “may,” “estimate,” “continue,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “should,” “plan,” “could,” “target,” “potential,” “is likely,” “will,” “expect” and similar expressions, as they relate to us, are intended to identify forward-looking statements. We have based these forward-looking statements largely on our current expectations and projections about future events and financial trends that we believe may affect our financial condition, results of operations, business strategy and financial needs. Actual results may differ materially from those included in these statements due to a variety of factors, including whether: GeoVax is able to obtain acceptable results from ongoing or future clinical trials of its investigational products, GeoVax’s immuno-oncology products and preventative vaccines can provoke the desired responses, and those products or vaccines can be used effectively, GeoVax’s viral vector technology adequately amplifies immune responses to cancer antigens, GeoVax can develop and manufacture its immuno-oncology products and preventative vaccines with the desired characteristics in a timely manner, GeoVax’s immuno-oncology products and preventative vaccines will be safe for human use, GeoVax’s vaccines will effectively prevent targeted infections in humans, GeoVax’s immuno-oncology products and preventative vaccines will receive regulatory approvals necessary to be licensed and marketed, GeoVax raises required capital to complete development, there is development of competitive products that may be more effective or easier to use than GeoVax’s products, GeoVax will be able to enter into favorable manufacturing and distribution agreements, and other factors, over which GeoVax has no control.
Further information on our risk factors is contained in our periodic reports on Form 10-Q and Form 10-K that we have filed and will file with the SEC. Any forward-looking statement made by us herein speaks only as of the date on which it is made. Factors or events that could cause our actual results to differ may emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for us to predict all of them. We undertake no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as may be required by law.
