Acquisition Adds 527 Kiosks Across 27 States, Enhancing Bitcoin Depot’s Nationwide Reach and Service Availability
ATLANTA, Oct. 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitcoin Depot (“Bitcoin Depot” or the “Company”) (NASDAQ: BTM), a U.S.-based Bitcoin ATM (“BTM”) operator and leading fintech company, today announced the acquisition of the assets of Westcliff Technologies, d/b/a National Bitcoin ATM (“National Bitcoin ATM”), a prominent BTM operator across 27 states. The acquisition adds over 500 kiosks to Bitcoin Depot’s network, further solidifying its leadership as North America’s largest Bitcoin ATM operator and accelerates the Company’s mission to provide accessible, secure, and convenient Bitcoin access to communities nationwide.
“Adding National Bitcoin ATM`s kiosks significantly expands our reach and increases our leadership in cash-to-crypto access,” said Brandon Mintz, CEO of Bitcoin Depot. “This is exactly the kind of transaction that plays to our strengths–integrating a sizable network quickly and operating it more efficiently with our scale, compliance program, and customer support. As the industry matures, we believe our ability to bring fragmented operators under the Bitcoin Depot umbrella will continue to set us apart in the market.”
Bitcoin Depot BTMs allow customers to seamlessly convert cash into Bitcoin which customers can use to access the broader digital financial system for payments, transfers, remittances, and investments. The additional kiosks complement Bitcoin Depot’s ongoing efforts to strengthen and expand its national footprint to bring more people into the crypto ecosystem. This acquisition brings Bitcoin Depot’s U.S. market share to roughly 30%.
For existing National Bitcoin ATM customers, there will be no disruption in service. The kiosks will remain operational as Bitcoin Depot works to integrate them into its broader network, with the same reliable functionality and the added benefits of Bitcoin Depot’s industry-leading customer support, robust compliance program, and continuous investment in technology and services.
“We are excited to be acquired by the leading operator in the Bitcoin ATM industry” said Luke Hewko. “It has become more difficult to compete in this space as time has gone on due to the resources and expertise needed to operate successfully and we believe Bitcoin Depot is best positioned to succeed in the current environment.”.”
About Bitcoin Depot Bitcoin Depot Inc. (Nasdaq: BTM) was founded in 2016 with the mission to connect those who prefer to use cash to the broader, digital financial system. Bitcoin Depot provides its users with simple, efficient and intuitive means of converting cash into Bitcoin, which users can deploy in the payments, spending and investing space. Users can convert cash to bitcoin at Bitcoin Depot kiosks in 47 states and at thousands of name-brand retail locations in 31 states through its BDCheckout product. The Company has the largest market share in North America with over 8,800 kiosk locations as of June 2025. Learn more at www.bitcoindepot.com.
About National Bitcoin ATM For more than a decade, National Bitcoin ATM has provided customers across the United States with instant access to Bitcoin through its network of kiosks. The company’s mission has been to create a reliable on-ramp and trusted touchpoint to the world’s most equitable financial network. National Bitcoin ATM believes that direct, self-custodial access to Bitcoin is a fundamental right and an essential step toward true financial self-sovereignty.
Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements This press release and any oral statements made in connection herewith include “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Exchange Act. Forward-looking statements are any statements other than statements of historical fact, and include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the expectations of plans, business strategies, objectives and growth and anticipated financial and operational performance, including our growth strategy and ability to increase deployment of our products and services, the anticipated effects of the Amendment, and the closing of the Preferred Sale. These forward-looking statements are based on management’s current beliefs, based on currently available information, as to the outcome and timing of future events. Forward-looking statements are often identified by words such as “anticipate,” “appears,” “approximately,” “believe,” “continue,” “could,” “designed,” “effect,” “estimate,” “evaluate,” “expect,” “forecast,” “goal,” “initiative,” “intend,” “may,” “objective,” “outlook,” “plan,” “potential,” “priorities,” “project,” “pursue,” “seek,” “should,” “target,” “when,” “will,” “would,” or the negative of any of those words or similar expressions that predict or indicate future events or trends or that are not statements of historical matters, although not all forward-looking statements contain such identifying words. In making these statements, we rely upon assumptions and analysis based on our experience and perception of historical trends, current conditions, and expected future developments, as well as other factors we consider appropriate under the circumstances. We believe these judgments are reasonable, but these statements are not guarantees of any future events or financial results. These forward-looking statements are provided for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to serve as, and must not be relied on by any investor as, a guarantee, an assurance, a prediction or a definitive statement of fact or probability. Actual events and circumstances are difficult or impossible to predict and will differ from assumptions. Many actual events and circumstances are beyond our control.
These forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, including changes in domestic and foreign business, market, financial, political and legal conditions; failure to realize the anticipated benefits of the business combination; future global, regional or local economic and market conditions; the development, effects and enforcement of laws and regulations; our ability to manage future growth; our ability to develop new products and services, bring them to market in a timely manner and make enhancements to our platform; the effects of competition on our future business; our ability to issue equity or equity-linked securities; the outcome of any potential litigation, government and regulatory proceedings, investigations and inquiries; and those factors described or referenced in filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. If any of these risks materialize or our assumptions prove incorrect, actual results could differ materially from the results implied by these forward-looking statements. There may be additional risks that we do not presently know or that we currently believe are immaterial that could also cause actual results to differ from those contained in the forward-looking statements. In addition, forward-looking statements reflect our expectations, plans or forecasts of future events and views as of the date of this press release. We anticipate that subsequent events and developments will cause our assessments to change.
We caution readers not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made, and we undertake no obligation to update publicly or otherwise revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or other factors that affect the subject of these statements, except where we are expressly required to do so by law. All written and oral forward-looking statements attributable to us are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement.
BRENTWOOD, Tenn., Oct. 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — CoreCivic, Inc. (NYSE: CXW) (“CoreCivic”) announced today that it will release its 2025 third quarter financial results after the market closes on Wednesday, November 5, 2025. A live broadcast of CoreCivic’s conference call will begin at 1:30 p.m. central time (2:30 p.m. eastern time) on Thursday, November 6, 2025.
To participate via telephone and join the call live, please register in advance. Upon registration at https://register-conf.media-server.com/register/BIa303aaae094f4f2fa02657400a84f3c6, telephone participants will receive a confirmation email detailing how to join the conference call, including the dial-in number and a unique passcode.
Participants may access the audio-only webcast of the conference call from the Company’s website at www.corecivic.com under the “Events & Presentations” section of the “Investors” page. A replay of the webcast will be available for seven days.
About CoreCivic CoreCivic is a diversified, government-solutions company with the scale and experience needed to solve tough government challenges in flexible, cost-effective ways. We provide a broad range of solutions to government partners that serve the public good through high-quality corrections and detention management, a network of residential and non-residential alternatives to incarceration to help address America’s recidivism crisis, and government real estate solutions. We are the nation’s largest owner of partnership correctional, detention and residential reentry facilities, and one of the largest operators of such facilities in the United States. We have been a flexible and dependable partner for government for more than 40 years. Our employees are driven by a deep sense of service, high standards of professionalism and a responsibility to help government better the public good. Learn more at www.corecivic.com.
BOTHELL, Wash., Oct. 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Cocrystal Pharma, Inc. (Nasdaq: COCP) (“Cocrystal” or the “Company”) announces that James Martin, CFO and co-CEO, will present a company overview at the Noble Capital Markets Emerging Growth Virtual Equity Conference on Thursday, October 9, 2025 at 12:00 pm Eastern time (9:00 a.m. Pacific time). The formal presentation will be followed by a hosted question-and-answer session with questions welcomed from the live virtual audience.
Those interested in viewing the live Cocrystal presentation can register for the event here. A video webcast of the presentation will be available within 48 hours following the event on the Company’s website and archived for 90 days.
Mr. Martin will be available throughout the conference for virtual one-on-one meetings with registered, qualified investors. Meetings can be scheduled by contacting Giorgia Pigato here at Noble Capital Markets.
About Noble Capital Markets, Inc. Noble Capital Markets is a research-driven investment bank that has supported small and microcap companies since 1984. As a FINRA and SEC licensed broker dealer, Noble provides institutional-quality equity research, merchant and investment banking, and order execution services. In 2018, Noble launched Channelchek—an investor community dedicated exclusively to public small and micro-cap companies and their industries. Channelchek is the first service to offer investors free institutional-quality research without a subscription.
About Cocrystal Pharma, Inc. Cocrystal Pharma, Inc. is a clinical-stage biotechnology company that addresses significant unmet needs by developing innovative antiviral treatments for challenging diseases including influenza, viral gastroenteritis, COVID, and hepatitis. Cocrystal employs unique structure-based technologies and Nobel Prize-winning expertise to create first- and best-in-class antiviral drugs.
STAFFORD, Texas, Oct. 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Greenwich LifeSciences, Inc. (Nasdaq: GLSI) (the “Company”), a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on its Phase III clinical trial, FLAMINGO-01, which is evaluating GLSI-100, an immunotherapy to prevent breast cancer recurrences, today announced the expansion of FLAMINGO-01 clinical trial to Belgium.
The Company’s application to European regulators has been formally approved, adding Belgium as an approved country in FLAMINGO-01 in addition to Spain, France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Romania, Ireland, Portugal, and the US.
According to the latest data collected by the European Cancer Information System (click here), a total of 11,366 new cases of breast cancer were diagnosed in Belgium in 2022, which is the most common cancer diagnosed in women, representing approximately 33% of all cancers in women. Breast cancer is the leading cause of death from cancer in women in Belgium with 2,324 deaths in 2022.
The Company is collaborating with Patrick Neven, MD, PhD, at UZ Leuven, who will be serving as the national principal investigator in Belgium for FLAMINGO-01. Dr Neven is Full Professor at the Department of Gynecological Oncology, University Hospitals Leuven, and is a staff member of the Multidisciplinary Breast Centre. His research focuses on breast oncology, particularly endocrine therapy and quality of life. He has served as principal investigator in multiple clinical trials, published over 300 peer-reviewed papers, and lectured widely at international meetings. He is president of the Belgian Society of Senology, active in several scientific societies, and has mentored numerous doctors and PhD students in breast cancer care.
CEO Snehal Patel commented, “We thank our steering committee for introducing us to Dr. Neven and look forward to working with him and his colleagues. We are planning start-up activities in Leuven in the coming month. Leuven is centrally located in Belgium and is an ideal location to cover large parts of the country, including Brussels and Antwerp.”
About FLAMINGO-01 and GLSI-100
FLAMINGO-01 (NCT05232916) is a Phase III clinical trial designed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of GLSI-100 (GP2 + GM-CSF) in HER2 positive breast cancer patients who had residual disease or high-risk pathologic complete response at surgery and who have completed both neoadjuvant and postoperative adjuvant trastuzumab based treatment. The trial is led by Baylor College of Medicine and currently includes US and European clinical sites from university-based hospitals and academic and cooperative networks with plans to open up to 150 sites globally. In the double-blinded arms of the Phase III trial, approximately 500 HLA-A*02 patients will be randomized to GLSI-100 or placebo, and up to 250 patients of other HLA types will be treated with GLSI-100 in a third arm. The trial has been designed to detect a hazard ratio of 0.3 in invasive breast cancer-free survival, where 28 events will be required. An interim analysis for superiority and futility will be conducted when at least half of those events, 14, have occurred. This sample size provides 80% power if the annual rate of events in placebo-treated subjects is 2.4% or greater.
For more information on FLAMINGO-01, please visit the Company’s website here and clinicaltrials.gov here. Contact information and an interactive map of the majority of participating clinical sites can be viewed under the “Contacts and Locations” section. Please note that the interactive map is not viewable on mobile screens. Related questions and participation interest can be emailed to: flamingo-01@greenwichlifesciences.com
About Breast Cancer and HER2/neu Positivity
One in eight U.S. women will develop invasive breast cancer over her lifetime, with approximately 300,000 new breast cancer patients and 4 million breast cancer survivors. HER2 (human epidermal growth factor receptor 2) protein is a cell surface receptor protein that is expressed in a variety of common cancers, including in 75% of breast cancers at low (1+), intermediate (2+), and high (3+ or over-expressor) levels.
About Greenwich LifeSciences, Inc.
Greenwich LifeSciences is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on the development of GP2, an immunotherapy to prevent breast cancer recurrences in patients who have previously undergone surgery. GP2 is a 9 amino acid transmembrane peptide of the HER2 protein, a cell surface receptor protein that is expressed in a variety of common cancers, including expression in 75% of breast cancers at low (1+), intermediate (2+), and high (3+ or over-expressor) levels. Greenwich LifeSciences has commenced a Phase III clinical trial, FLAMINGO-01. For more information on Greenwich LifeSciences, please visit the Company’s website at www.greenwichlifesciences.com and follow the Company’s Twitter at https://twitter.com/GreenwichLS.
Forward-Looking Statement Disclaimer
Statements in this press release contain “forward-looking statements” that are subject to substantial risks and uncertainties. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, contained in this press release are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements contained in this press release may be identified by the use of words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “contemplate,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “seek,” “may,” “might,” “plan,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “target,” “aim,” “should,” “will,” “would,” or the negative of these words or other similar expressions, although not all forward-looking statements contain these words. Forward-looking statements are based on Greenwich LifeSciences Inc.’s current expectations and are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks and assumptions that are difficult to predict, including statements regarding the intended use of net proceeds from the public offering; consequently, actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Further, certain forward-looking statements are based on assumptions as to future events that may not prove to be accurate. These and other risks and uncertainties are described more fully in the section entitled “Risk Factors” in Greenwich LifeSciences’ Annual Report on the most recent Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024, and other periodic reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Forward-looking statements contained in this announcement are made as of this date, and Greenwich LifeSciences, Inc. undertakes no duty to update such information except as required under applicable law.
Investor & Public Relations Contact for Greenwich LifeSciences Dave Gentry RedChip Companies Inc. Office: 1-800-RED CHIP (733 2447) Email: dave@redchip.com
CHICAGO, Oct. 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — FreightCar America, Inc. (NASDAQ: RAIL) (“FreightCar America” or the “Company”), a diversified manufacturer and supplier of railroad freight cars, railcar parts and components, today announced that Nick Randall, Chief Executive Officer, and Michael Riordan, Chief Financial Officer, will participate in one-on-one meetings with investors at the Noble Emerging Growth Virtual Equity Conference, taking place on October 8, 2025.
For additional information or to request a meeting, please contact the Company’s Investor Relations team at RAILIR@riveron.com.
About FreightCar America
FreightCar America, headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, is a leading designer, producer and supplier of railroad freight cars, railcar parts and components. We also specialize in railcar repairs, complete railcar rebody services and railcar conversions that repurpose idled rail assets back into revenue service. Since 1901, our customers have trusted us to build quality railcars that are critical to economic growth and instrumental to the North American supply chain. To learn more about FreightCar America, visit www.freightcaramerica.com.
CHARLOTTE, N.C., Oct. 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — NN, Inc. (NASDAQ: NNBR), a global diversified industrial company that engineers and manufactures high-precision components and assemblies, has announced the promotion of Gregg Cottage to serve as its new Chief Information Officer and Chief Information Security Officer. In this position, Mr. Cottage leads the Company’s information technology function, including its enterprise information security strategy. Mr. Cottage will report to Chris Bohnert, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer.
Chris Bohnert, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of NN, commented, “We are pleased to announce Gregg’s promotion, which will help sharpen NN’s focus on the policies and practices designed to safeguard the Company’s digital assets. Gregg has been a critical member of NN’s information technology team for over ten years, and his experience along with his native knowledge and understanding of the Company’s structure and systems will serve as an important factor in the strengthening of our IT as well as our data security strategies. Gregg has been the primary leader of the IT organization since 2023, and in this new role he will be responsible for leading the next phase of NN’s technology transformation and cybersecurity oversight.”
Mr. Cottage commented, “I am excited to put my experience to work, further strengthening NN’s alignment of enterprise IT with business goals. NN’s brand is synonymous with continued innovation. The combination of differentiated capabilities and process technologies, and our enhanced focus on deploying technology and leveraging data-driven intelligence will enable NN to deliver real, valuable solutions for customers and partners. I look forward to working with the team in this new role to drive continued innovation, expand our impact with customers, and help unlock further opportunities as our business and markets continue to evolve.”
Mr. Cottage has over 30 years of IT experience. Prior to joining NN in 2014, he served in progressive IT roles for multiple Fortune 500 companies and their subsidiaries. His roles at NN included serving as Global IT Infrastructure Manager and Global Director, Information Technology before being promoted to his current position. Mr. Cottage holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and has earned his Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) certification.
About NN, Inc. NN, Inc., a global diversified industrial company, combines advanced engineering and production capabilities with in-depth materials science expertise to design and manufacture high-precision components and assemblies for a variety of markets on a global basis. Headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina, NN has facilities in North America, Europe, South America, and Asia. For more information about the company and its products, please visit www.nninc.com.
This press release contains express and implied forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements generally will be accompanied by words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “forecast,” “growth,” “guidance,” “intend,” “may,” “will,” “possible,” “potential,” “predict,” “project”, “trajectory” or other similar words, phrases or expressions. Forward-looking statements involve a number of risks and uncertainties that are outside of management’s control and that may cause actual results to be materially different from such statements. Such factors include, among others, general economic conditions and economic conditions in the industrial sector; material changes in the costs and availability of raw materials; the level of our indebtedness; our ability to secure, maintain or enforce patents or other appropriate protections for our intellectual property; and cyber liability or potential liability for breaches of our or our service providers’ information technology systems or business operations disruptions. The foregoing factors should not be construed as exhaustive and should be read in conjunction with the sections entitled “Risk Factors” and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” included in the Company’s filings made with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or review any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as required by law.
V2X builds innovative solutions that integrate physical and digital environments by aligning people, actions, and technology. V2X is embedded in all elements of a critical mission’s lifecycle to enhance readiness, optimize resource management, and boost security. The company provides innovation spanning national security, defense, civilian, and international markets. With a global team of approximately 16,000 professionals, V2X enables mission success by injecting AI and machine learning capabilities to meet today’s toughest challenges across all operational domains.
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.
Awards. V2X has been the recipient of new awards, including one focused on extending the life-cycle of existing platforms and another driving connectivity and communications. In total, the three new awards total over $580 million of contract value, assuming all funds are spent. We view the recent wins as further confirmation of V2X’s ability to provide full mission lifecycle solutions.
Center Display Units. V2X’s Vertex Modernization and Sustainment unit was awarded by the Air Force a five-year ID/IQ contract with a single five-year option (10 years total) with a contract ceiling of $425 million for center display units (CDU), according to the Department of War’s daily contract awards. V2X will supply the Air Force with the following hardware during this period: CDU full kits, CDU line replaceable units, CDU shop replaceable units, and various other support hardware as required.
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.
CoreCivic is a diversified, government-solutions company with the scale and experience needed to solve tough government challenges in flexible, cost-effective ways. We provide a broad range of solutions to government partners that serve the public good through high-quality corrections and detention management, a network of residential and non-residential alternatives to incarceration to help address America’s recidivism crisis, and government real estate solutions. We are the nation’s largest owner of partnership correctional, detention and residential reentry facilities, and believe we are the largest private owner of real estate used by government agencies in the United States. We have been a flexible and dependable partner for government for nearly 40 years. Our employees are driven by a deep sense of service, high standards of professionalism and a responsibility to help government better the public good. Learn more at www.corecivic.com.
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.
Diamondback. Yesterday, CoreCivic announced it was awarded a new contract under an Intergovernmental Services Agreement between the Oklahoma Department of Corrections and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (“ICE”) to resume operations at the Company’s 2,160-bed Diamondback Correctional Facility, a facility that has been idle since 2010.
Details. The new contract commenced on September 30, 2025, for a term of five years and may be extended through bilateral modification. The agreement provides for a fixed monthly payment plus an incremental per diem payment based on detainee populations. Total annual revenue once the facility is fully activated is expected to be approximately $100 million. The facility should begin receiving detainees in the first quarter of 2026, with the full ramp estimated to be complete in the second quarter of 2026.
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.
Seanergy Maritime Holdings Corp. is a prominent pure-play Capesize shipping company listed in the U.S. capital markets. Seanergy provides marine dry bulk transportation services through a modern fleet of Capesize vessels. The Company’s operating fleet consists of 18 vessels (1 Newcastlemax and 17 Capesize) with an average age of approximately 13.4 years and an aggregate cargo carrying capacity of approximately 3,236,212 dwt. Upon completion of the delivery of the previously announced Capesize vessel acquisition, the Company’s operating fleet will consist of 19 vessels (1 Newcastlemax and 18 Capesize) with an aggregate cargo carrying capacity of approximately 3,417,608 dwt. The Company is incorporated in the Marshall Islands and has executive offices in Glyfada, Greece. The Company’s common shares trade on the Nasdaq Capital Market under the symbol “SHIP”.
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.
Sale of M/V Geniuship. Seanergy announced the sale of the M/V Geniuship, a 170,057 dwt Capesize vessel, for approximately $21.6 million, generating net cash proceeds of $12.0 million and a profit of about $2.5 million. The sale was timed to take advantage of improved vessel valuations while avoiding the costs of the vessel’s scheduled dry-docking. The transaction enhances liquidity, improves near-term earnings, and aligns with the company’s ongoing fleet renewal strategy.
Capesize market gains momentum. The Capesize market has strengthened in recent months, supported by iron ore and bauxite projects in the Atlantic basin and West Africa, while volatility due to tariffs has moderated. The orderbook remains limited, with shipyard slots not available until 2029. Rising vessel values, together with higher construction costs, have further restricted orders. Overall, we expect market conditions to remain favorable, with 2026 showing improvement over 2025.
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.
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.
Moving through the permitting process. Century has completed all required environmental baseline studies to begin Angel Island’s National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) permitting process, which is expected to take up to two years before reaching a record of decision. The studies will be used by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) to support the company’s upcoming Plan of Operations submission and subsequent NEPA analysis.
FAST-41 designation. In August 2025, Angel Island was formally designated as a FAST-41 Transparency project under a federal initiative designed to improve the transparency, coordination, and timeliness of the federal environmental review and permitting process. The designation reflects Angel Island’s strategic importance in supporting the U.S. critical minerals supply chain. We think the Angel Island project is well-positioned for a timely progression through the permitting process.
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.
The Federal Reserve’s latest signal toward additional rate cuts has broad implications for equity markets, but small-cap stocks stand to benefit most prominently. With an estimated $7 trillion in cash and cash-equivalents—often referred to as “dry powder”—sitting on the sidelines, investors are preparing to put capital to work. Much of this capital is housed within private equity funds, institutional investors, and large asset managers, which are all seeking stronger returns as yields on cash and Treasuries decline in a falling-rate environment.
When interest rates fall, sitting on cash becomes less attractive. Investors, pressed to generate higher ROI, begin reallocating money into equities, private deals, and higher-growth opportunities. For small-cap companies, this creates a powerful tailwind. Not only do they benefit from increased investor flows, but they also operate with greater sensitivity to financing conditions. Lower borrowing costs can dramatically improve the profitability outlook for smaller firms, which often rely more heavily on debt and capital markets to fund growth compared to large caps.
M&A Activity and Its Ripple Effects
A large portion of sidelined capital resides within private equity funds, which thrive in environments where acquisition financing is cheaper. Rate cuts reduce the cost of leverage, making buyouts more attractive. The $7 trillion pool of global dry powder is a firehose of liquidity ready to be deployed into merger-and-acquisition deals.
This matters for small caps because acquisition premiums drive valuations higher across the board. As private equity firms, corporations, and even larger small-cap peers target acquisitions, multiples expand—not just for the companies being acquired, but for entire industries as investors speculate on who might be next. This “M&A halo effect” has historically been a significant driver of outperformance in the small-cap space.
Why the Russell 2000 Benefits Disproportionately
The Russell 2000, the most widely watched U.S. small-cap index, tends to be more cyclical and more domestic-focused than large-cap benchmarks. Rate-sensitive sectors such as financials, industrials, and consumer discretionary make up a larger share of its composition. This means the Russell 2000 is positioned to benefit more directly from looser monetary policy than the mega-cap dominated S&P 500 or Nasdaq.
Moreover, small-cap valuations remain historically discounted relative to large caps. The valuation gap, widened after years of tech-driven outperformance at the top end of the market, could narrow sharply as investors re-risk portfolios in search of higher growth potential. History shows that during periods of monetary easing, small caps have often outperformed, fueled by capital inflows, improved earnings prospects, and heightened M&A activity.
The Bottom Line
The confluence of Federal Reserve rate cuts, a massive capital overhang waiting to be deployed, and the natural sensitivity of small-cap companies to interest rate changes sets the stage for a potential rally in the Russell 2000 and broader small-cap landscape. Lower yields make cash less productive, driving investors toward equities. Private equity firms flush with capital will likely target acquisitions, boosting market-wide valuations. And small-cap companies, historically more nimble and growth-oriented, stand to capture the bulk of these benefits.
For investors focused on the small-cap arena, the coming months may present an exceptional entry point. The combination of monetary easing and $7 trillion in sidelined capital seeking higher returns could ignite the small-cap rally that many have been waiting for.
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Thursday, October 2, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
Century Lithium Corp. (CYDVF)/OUTPERFORM – Progress on the Permitting Front CoreCivic, Inc. (CXW)/OUTPERFORM – An Award for Diamondback Seanergy Maritime (SHIP)/OUTPERFORM – Strategic Vessel Sale and Improving Capesize Fundamentals V2X (VVX)/OUTPERFORM – Some More Awards
Century Lithium Corp. (CYDVF/$0.29 | Price Target: $2.35) Mark Reichman mreichman@noblefcm.com | (561) 999-2272 Hans Baldau hbaldau@noblefcm.com | Progress on the Permitting Front Rating: OUTPERFORM
Moving through the permitting process. Century has completed all required environmental baseline studies to begin Angel Island’s National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) permitting process, which is expected to take up to two years before reaching a record of decision. The studies will be used by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) to support the company’s upcoming Plan of Operations submission and subsequent NEPA analysis.
FAST-41 designation. In August 2025, Angel Island was formally designated as a FAST-41 Transparency project under a federal initiative designed to improve the transparency, coordination, and timeliness of the federal environmental review and permitting process. The designation reflects Angel Island’s strategic importance in supporting the U.S. critical minerals supply chain. We think the Angel Island project is well-positioned for a timely progression through the permitting process.
CoreCivic, Inc. (CXW/$20.55 | Price Target: $28) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 An Award for Diamondback Rating: OUTPERFORM
Diamondback. Yesterday, CoreCivic announced it was awarded a new contract under an Intergovernmental Services Agreement between the Oklahoma Department of Corrections and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (“ICE”) to resume operations at the Company’s 2,160-bed Diamondback Correctional Facility, a facility that has been idle since 2010.
Details. The new contract commenced on September 30, 2025, for a term of five years and may be extended through bilateral modification. The agreement provides for a fixed monthly payment plus an incremental per diem payment based on detainee populations. Total annual revenue once the facility is fully activated is expected to be approximately $100 million. The facility should begin receiving detainees in the first quarter of 2026, with the full ramp estimated to be complete in the second quarter of 2026.
Seanergy Maritime (SHIP/$8.58 | Price Target: $11) Mark Reichman mreichman@noblefcm.com | (561) 999-2272 Hans Baldau hbaldau@noblefcm.com | Strategic Vessel Sale and Improving Capesize Fundamentals Rating: OUTPERFORM
Sale of M/V Geniuship. Seanergy announced the sale of the M/V Geniuship, a 170,057 dwt Capesize vessel, for approximately $21.6 million, generating net cash proceeds of $12.0 million and a profit of about $2.5 million. The sale was timed to take advantage of improved vessel valuations while avoiding the costs of the vessel’s scheduled dry-docking. The transaction enhances liquidity, improves near-term earnings, and aligns with the company’s ongoing fleet renewal strategy.
Capesize market gains momentum. The Capesize market has strengthened in recent months, supported by iron ore and bauxite projects in the Atlantic basin and West Africa, while volatility due to tariffs has moderated. The orderbook remains limited, with shipyard slots not available until 2029. Rising vessel values, together with higher construction costs, have further restricted orders. Overall, we expect market conditions to remain favorable, with 2026 showing improvement over 2025.
V2X (VVX/$58.08 | Price Target: $72) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 Some More Awards Rating: OUTPERFORM
Awards. V2X has been the recipient of new awards, including one focused on extending the life-cycle of existing platforms and another driving connectivity and communications. In total, the three new awards total over $580 million of contract value, assuming all funds are spent. We view the recent wins as further confirmation of V2X’s ability to provide full mission lifecycle solutions.
Center Display Units. V2X’s Vertex Modernization and Sustainment unit was awarded by the Air Force a five-year ID/IQ contract with a single five-year option (10 years total) with a contract ceiling of $425 million for center display units (CDU), according to the Department of War’s daily contract awards. V2X will supply the Air Force with the following hardware during this period: CDU full kits, CDU line replaceable units, CDU shop replaceable units, and various other support hardware as required.
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Wednesday, October 1, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
Bit Digital (BTBT)/OUTPERFORM – A Convertible Note Offering The GEO Group (GEO)/OUTPERFORM – Retains ISAP Contract
Bit Digital (BTBT/$3 | Price Target: $5.5) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 A Convertible Note Offering Rating: OUTPERFORM
An Offering. Bit Digital is offering $135 million of convertible notes. The deal is upsized from an original $100 million. Net proceeds from the offering will be used primarily to purchase Ethereum, and may be used for general corporate purposes, including potential investments, acquisitions, and other business opportunities. The capital raise continues management’s goal of becoming a major Ethereum treasury company, in our view.
Details. The Notes will be senior, unsecured obligations of the Company and will accrue interest at a rate of 4.00% per year, payable semiannually in arrears. The Notes will mature on October 1, 2030. The initial conversion rate will be 240.3846 shares per $1,000 principal amount of Notes (equivalent to an initial conversion price of $4.16 per ordinary share and represents a conversion premium of 30% above the last reported sale price of the ordinary shares on September 29, 2025, which was $3.20).
The GEO Group (GEO/$20.49 | Price Target: $35) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 Retains ISAP Contract Rating: OUTPERFORM
ISAP Award. As we had expected, The GEO Group has retained the Intensive Supervision Appearance Program (“ISAP”) contract. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (“ICE”) awarded the contract to GEO’s BI subsidiary for the continued provision of electronic monitoring, case management, and supervision services. It is a two-year contract, which will have an initial term of one year, effective October 1, 2025, with an additional one-year option period.
Long-time Services Provider. BI has provided technology solutions, holistic case management, supervision, monitoring, and compliance services under the ISAP contract for over 21 years and has achieved high levels of compliance using a wide range of technologies and case management services over that time.
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Tuesday, September 30, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
Alliance Resource Partners (ARLP)/OUTPERFORM – U.S. Coal as a Strategic and Competitive Advantage CoreCivic, Inc. (CXW)/OUTPERFORM – Letter Contracts to Contract Awards ONE Group Hospitality (STKS)/OUTPERFORM – Activist Investor Sees $10+ Stock in 12-18 Months
Alliance Resource Partners (ARLP/$25.02 | Price Target: $32) Mark Reichman mreichman@noblefcm.com | (561) 999-2272 Hans Baldau hbaldau@noblefcm.com | U.S. Coal as a Strategic and Competitive Advantage Rating: OUTPERFORM
Investments to reinvigorate the U.S. coal industry. The U.S. Department of Energy announced a $625 million program to expand and reinvigorate the U.S. coal industry. This includes $350 million to recommission or modernize coal power units, $175 million for coal power projects directly benefiting rural communities, $50 million to support advanced wastewater management systems to enable coal plants to extend their service life and reduce operational costs, $25 million for dual-firing retrofits, and $25 million for development and testing of natural gas cofiring systems.
Expanded coal leasing on federal lands. Moreover, the U.S. Department of the Interior announced it is making up to 13.1 million acres of federal land available for coal leasing and streamlining approvals for projects. The Department is accelerating efforts to fast-track projects that can recover strategic minerals from mine waste and abandoned sites. The One Big Beautiful Bill, passed on July 4, established lower coal leasing royalty rates of not more than 7% for both surface and underground mines for the period July 4, 2025, to September 30, 2034.
CoreCivic, Inc. (CXW/$21.54 | Price Target: $28) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 Letter Contracts to Contract Awards Rating: OUTPERFORM
Contract Awards. As anticipated, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) awarded CoreCivic two new contracts, which, once fully activated, would generate total annual revenue of approximately $200 million. The two facilities, California City and Midwest Regional, had been operating under Letter Contracts with ICE, which enable CoreCivic to begin operations at a facility while negotiating a longer-term contract. Both facilities were idle at the beginning of the year.
California City. CoreCivic has been preparing to accept detainees at the 2,560-bed California City facility since April 1, 2025. The Company began receiving detainees at the facility on August 27, 2025. Management currently expects the activation to be complete in 1Q26, achieving a normalized run-rate in 2Q26. Total annual revenue, once the activation is complete, is expected to be approximately $130 million. The new contract expires in August 2027.
ONE Group Hospitality (STKS/$3.12 | Price Target: $5) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 Activist Investor Sees $10+ Stock in 12-18 Months Rating: OUTPERFORM
Activist Investor. Randian Capital, part of the “retail activist” group behind the sharp rise in Opendoor Technologies (OPEN) stock from less than a $1 mid-summer to around $8.20 today, released on social media platform X a turnaround proposal for The ONE Group. In a nutshell, the plan consists of Refocus the Portfolio, Revitalize the Brand, Strengthen Operations, and Capital Discipline & Growth. Radian sees a path to a $10+ stock over the next 12-18 months. STKS shares rose over 26% yesterday on the news.
Refocus & Revitalize. Randian calls for ONE Group to refocus solely on its Benihana concept, selling off all other concepts. The activist investor believes the STK concept alone could be worth more than the current market cap. Randian suggests rebranding as Benihana Group and changing the stock symbol. Revitalization by elevating the dining experience and engaging with cultural icons, among other changes.
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Friday, September 26, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
Aurania Resources (AUIAF)/OUTPERFORM – Heightened Risk in Ecuador AZZ (AZZ)/OUTPERFORM – Revising Estimates; Growth Outlook Remains Favorable Steelcase (SCS)/MARKET PERFORM – A Better Than Expected 2Q26
Aurania Resources (AUIAF/$0.1 | Price Target: $0.35) Mark Reichman mreichman@noblefcm.com | (561) 999-2272 Heightened Risk in Ecuador Rating: OUTPERFORM
Second quarter financial results. As an exploration company, Aurania does not generate revenue and has expenses to advance its projects. During the second quarter of 2025, the company generated a net loss of C$1,610,843 or C$0.01 per share. We had projected a loss of C$1,432,419 or C$0.01 per share. The variance to our estimate was mostly due to higher exploration expenditures, along with higher stock-based compensation. We project a full-year 2025 net loss of C$11.1 million, or C$(0.10) per share, compared to our prior loss estimate of C$10.5 million, or C$(0.09) per share.
Mining service fee. Ecuador recently implemented a new mining service fee on the resource sector (refer to our note dated July 29, 2025). The Ecuadorian Control and Regulation Agency (ARCOM) requested payment from Aurania of US$2,012,618 by July 31, 2025, representing one month of the total annual fee of US$24,151,420. While the penalty for non-payment is unclear, we think Aurania is withholding payment until it becomes clear whether TASA will stand in its current form due to multiple constitutional challenges.
AZZ (AZZ/$110.64 | Price Target: $125) Mark Reichman mreichman@noblefcm.com | (561) 999-2272 Hans Baldau hbaldau@noblefcm.com | Revising Estimates; Growth Outlook Remains Favorable Rating: OUTPERFORM
Updating estimates. We are lowering our second-quarter revenue, adjusted EBITDA, and adjusted EPS estimates to $428.3 million, $93.4 million, and $1.54, respectively, from $433.5 million, $101.1 million, and $1.59. While we have increased our revenue estimate for the Metal Coatings segment, we lowered expectations for Precoat Metals due to anticipated weakness in building construction. Our FY 2026 revenue, adjusted EBITDA, and adjusted EPS estimates are $1.660 billion, $374.9 million, and $6.00, respectively, compared to our prior estimates of $1.680 billion, $388.3 million, and $6.00. Our revised estimates reflect lower interest expense, along with modestly lower depreciation and amortization expense.
Organic and acquired growth. AZZ’s three-year goals include generating sales of two billion dollars or more in fiscal year 2028, compared to its trailing twelve-month sales of $1.6 billion. Organic growth is expected to exceed GDP growth, and AZZ is targeting acquisitions that strengthen both of its business segments. While we do not forecast sales of $2.0 billion until 2031, our model does not reflect acquisitions until they are announced.
Steelcase (SCS/$16.7) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 A Better Than Expected 2Q26 Rating: MARKET PERFORM
2Q26. In what is likely the Company’s final quarterly report as a public company, Steelcase reported better than expected results. Results benefitted from continued strengthening of demand from large corporate customers and International growth driven by India, China, and the United Kingdom. Improved International volume drove a $5 million reduction in y-o-y adjusted operating loss in the International segment. These were Steelcase’s highest quarterly results over the past five years.
Financials. Revenue of $897.1 million rose 4.8% y-o-y and exceeded the $890 million high end of management’s guidance. We were at $875 million. Gross margin of 34.4% was flat y-o-y and exceeded the 33.5% high end of guidance. Adjusted EBITDA totaled $99.6 million, or 11.1% of revenue, up from $89.5 million and 10.5% in 2Q25. Adjusted EPS was $0.45, versus $0.39 last year and above management’s $0.40 high end guide. We were at $0.36.
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Wednesday, September 24, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
SelectQuote (SLQT)/OUTPERFORM – Reaches Milestone in Helping Medicare-Eligible Seniors
SelectQuote (SLQT/$2.08 | Price Target: $7) Patrick McCann, CFA pmccann@noblefcm.com | (314) 724-6266 Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 Reaches Milestone in Helping Medicare-Eligible Seniors Rating: OUTPERFORM
Milestone in Findhelp partnership. SelectQuote announced that it has referred more than 200,000 low-income seniors to Findhelp, with nearly 50,000 of those individuals accessing free or reduced-cost services. The milestone demonstrates SelectQuote’s role in addressing the needs of Medicare-eligible consumers.
Partnership connects consumers to critical support. Findhelp is a closed-loop referral management software platform that connects individuals with community resources such as food, housing, transportation, and financial aid. SelectQuote has partnered with Findhelp for several years, directing seniors to assistance programs. The initiative does not generate revenue, but it extends SelectQuote’s Medicare distribution model by providing tangible value to consumers.
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Tuesday, September 23, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
The ODP Corporation (ODP)/MARKET PERFORM – To Be Acquired for $28/sh
The ODP Corporation (ODP/$27.68) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 To Be Acquired for $28/sh Rating: MARKET PERFORM
An Acquisition. Yesterday morning, The ODP Corporation announced it entered into a definitive agreement to be acquired by an affiliate of Atlas Holdings for $28/sh. The purchase price represents a premium of 34% to Friday’s closing price. ODP’s Board is supporting the transaction, which is expected to close by the end of 2025.
Who Is Atlas Holdings? Founded in 2002 by Andrew Bursky and Tim Fazio, Greenwich, CT-based Atlas Holdings owns and operates a global family of manufacturing and distribution businesses that together generate more than $20 billion in annual revenue. Atlas has experience in the office supplies sector through its LSC Communications unit, a leader in organizational solutions through brands such as Pendaflex.
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Monday, September 22, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
Information Services Group (III)/OUTPERFORM – Raising Price Target
Information Services Group (III/$5.38 | Price Target: $6.5) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 Raising Price Target Rating: OUTPERFORM
Raising Price Target. We are raising our price target on III shares to $6.50 from a prior $5, as III shares have exceeded our price target. The recent and expected future interest rate cuts, ongoing cost optimization efforts from clients, and the increasing pace of AI adoption will continue to drive ISG’s operating performance, in our view.
Valuation. At our $6.50 price target, III shares would trade at 1.4x our 2026 revenue estimate on an EV/sales basis, 10.7x on an EV/projected 2026 adjusted EBITDA basis, and 19.1x adjusted 2026 earnings. This compares to a peer group that trades at 1.3x, 10x, and 15.8x, respectively, consensus 2026 estimates.
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Friday, September 19, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
Ocugen (OCGN)/OUTPERFORM – OCU400 Licensing Agreement For Korea Completed
Ocugen (OCGN/$1.4 | Price Target: $8) Robert LeBoyer rleboyer@noblefcm.com | (212) 896-4625 OCU400 Licensing Agreement For Korea Completed Rating: OUTPERFORM
OCU400 Licensing Completed. Ocugen has announced the completion of a licensing agreement for Korea with Kwangdong Pharmaceutical, Co., Ltd., a diversified pharmaceutical company in the Republic of South Korea. This finalizes the term sheet announced in August with the 2Q25 business update. We have based our revenue expectations on US and Europe, with the Korea agreement adding additional cash upon the signing and downstream royalties.
Agreement Provides Cash, Milestones, and Royalties. The terms provide Ocugen with signing and near-term milestones of $7.5 million. Under the agreement, Ocugen will manufacture and supply OCU400 in exchange for a royalty of 25% of Net Sales plus sales milestones of $1 million for every $15 million in Net Sales, or roughly 32% per $15 million in sales. There are an estimated 7,000 retinitis pigmentosa (RP) patients in Korea, with an estimated market of about $180 million over the first 10 years of sales. We estimate these potential payments at about $65 million to Ocugen.
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Thursday, September 18, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
FreightCar America (RAIL)/OUTPERFORM – RAIL Adopts Stockholder Rights Plan Great Lakes Dredge & Dock (GLDD)/OUTPERFORM – A Month of Awards Nicola Mining Inc. (HUSIF)/OUTPERFORM – Updating Our Sum-of-the-Parts Valuation; Increasing PT to US$1.05 or C$1.45
FreightCar America (RAIL/$8.71 | Price Target: $17) Mark Reichman mreichman@noblefcm.com | (561) 999-2272 Hans Baldau hbaldau@noblefcm.com | RAIL Adopts Stockholder Rights Plan Rating: OUTPERFORM
Protecting the interests of all shareholders. Following a review of the company’s current ownership structure, FreightCar America announced that its Board of Directors adopted a limited-duration stockholder rights plan.The rights plan will expire on August 5, 2026, unless terminated earlier by the Board. The Rights Plan is intended to reduce the likelihood that any person or group gains control of the company through open-market accumulation or other tactics without paying an appropriate control premium. The plan also ensures the Board has sufficient time to make informed decisions that protect the interests of the company and all RAIL shareholders.
Increasing 2026 estimates. We have increased our 2026 EBITDA and EPS estimates to $53.6 million and $0.65, respectively, from $53.2 million and $0.64. Our estimate update reflects stronger deliveries in the second half of the year, with a full-year estimate of 4,850 compared with our previous estimate of 4,800. We now expect quarterly deliveries of: 1Q: 982, 2Q: 1,200, 3Q: 1,284, and 4Q: 1,384. Previously we had assumed: 1Q: 1,346, 2Q: 1,275, 3Q: 1,058, and 4Q: 1,121.
Great Lakes Dredge & Dock (GLDD/$11.97 | Price Target: $14) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 A Month of Awards Rating: OUTPERFORM
More Business. Over the past month, Great Lakes continued to be awarded additional business, according to the Department of War’s daily contract awards release. In total, the announced awards (and recall not all awards are included in the daily notice), totaled approximately $80 million, demonstrating Great Lakes’ operating capabilities as well as the ongoing demand from the government.
September. Most recently, Great Lakes was awarded a $27.9 million firm-fixed-price contract for the removal and disposal of hopper dredge material. Work will be performed in Venice, Louisiana, with an estimated completion date of April 7, 2026. Fiscal 2025 civil operation and maintenance funds in the amount of $27.9 million were obligated at the time of the award.
Nicola Mining Inc. (HUSIF/$0.78 | Price Target: $1.05) Mark Reichman mreichman@noblefcm.com | (561) 999-2272 Updating Our Sum-of-the-Parts Valuation; Increasing PT to US$1.05 or C$1.45 Rating: OUTPERFORM
New Craigmont mining lease extensions. Nicola Mining Inc. (OTCQB: HUSIF, TSX.V: NIM) secured a five-year extension for six mining leases at its New Craigmont Property from the Ministry of Mining and Critical Minerals. The New Craigmont property encompasses over 10,800 hectares and is adjacent to Teck Resources Limited’s (NYSE: TECK, TSX: TECK.A and TECK.B) Highland Valley Copper Mine, the largest copper mine in Canada. On June 1, Nicola commenced a 4,000-to-5,000-meter diamond drill program at the New Craigmont project. The mining lease extension ensures continuity through the project’s lifecycle.
Shipments of gold concentrate. Earlier this month, Nicola announced that it had commenced shipping gold concentrate via a partnership with Talisker Resources Ltd. (TSX: TSK, OTCQX: TSKFF). Under a Mining, Milling, and Smelting Agreement, the parties sold 707 ounces of gold in August, generating gross proceeds of approximately US$2.3 million. Production benefited from upgrades to the Merritt Mill, including the installation of a large concentrator that optimized free gold recovery.
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Wednesday, September 17, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
Commercial Vehicle Group (CVGI)/OUTPERFORM – Activist Shareholder Calls for Strategic Review The GEO Group (GEO)/OUTPERFORM – A Renewal and Two New Contracts V2X (VVX)/OUTPERFORM – Continuing to Lighten Vince Holding Corp. (VNCE)/OUTPERFORM – A Closer Look Supports Our Favorable Outlook
Commercial Vehicle Group (CVGI/$1.94 | Price Target: $4) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 Activist Shareholder Calls for Strategic Review Rating: OUTPERFORM
Call For A Review. In an amended Schedule 13D filing, investor Lakeview Opportunity Fund has communicated its views on the Company to the CVG management and Board on opportunities for value creation, including through a review process that explores strategic alternatives, including a sale of the Company.
Who Is Lakeview? With Managing Partner Ari Levy, Lakeview is a concentrated and opportunistic multi-strategy fund. The Fund focuses on underfollowed or ignored market areas, such as small and mid-cap value equities, niche Wall Street vehicles, options, and selective shareholder activism, where Lakeview helps companies, generally trading at significant discounts to private market value, unlock shareholder value.
The GEO Group (GEO/$22.04 | Price Target: $35) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 A Renewal and Two New Contracts Rating: OUTPERFORM
Contracts. The Florida Department of Corrections has issued Notices of Intent to Award three managed-only contracts to GEO for the assumption of management and support services at the 985-bed Bay Correctional and Rehabilitation Facility and the 1,884-bed Graceville Correctional and Rehabilitation Facility and for the continuation of management and support services at the 985-bed Moore Haven Correctional and Rehabilitation Facility.
Details. The three contracts are expected to have an initial term of three years, effective July 1, 2026, with unlimited two-year renewal option periods. On a combined basis, the three contracts are expected to generate approximately $130 million in annualized revenues, including approximately $100 million in new incremental annualized revenues for GEO. While the new contracts will not begin until next year, the new awards reflect GEO’s ability to provide the services demanded by its government partners, in our view.
V2X (VVX/$56.62 | Price Target: $72) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 Continuing to Lighten Rating: OUTPERFORM
Another Sale. Private-equity firm American Industrial Partners (AIP), through its Vertex Aerospace subsidiary, sold another 1.7 million VVX shares on September 11th. According to the amended 13D filing, the shares were sold at a price of $52.203 per share through a Rule 144 sale. As we have stated in the past, we continue to expect AIP to sell off its V2X holding over time.
Ownership. Following the most recent share sale, AIP’s ownership is now 8,467,286 VVX shares, representing 26.9% of the outstanding common of V2X. This is down from the 18,591,866 VVX shares, or 61.1% of the then outstanding common, held by AIP just after the Vectrus/Vertex merger in July 2022.
Vince Holding Corp. (VNCE/$2.63 | Price Target: $4.5) Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 Jacob Mutchler jmutchler@noblefcm.com | A Closer Look Supports Our Favorable Outlook Rating: OUTPERFORM
Solid Q2 Results. The company reported Q2 revenue of $73.2 million, modestly beating our estimate of $72.0 million, and adj. EBITDA of $6.7 million, which strongly outperformed our estimate of $0.85 million by 685%. The strong adj. EBITDA was largely driven by management’s ability to execute on its tariff mitigation strategies, resulting in an improved gross profit margin.
Mitigating tariff impacts. Importantly, the company’s gross profit margin increased 300 basis points over the prior year period. The improvement was driven by lower product costing and higher pricing, contributing a 340 basis point improvement, as well as less discounting, which resulted in a 210 basis point improvement. However, the positive margin contributions were softened by tariff and freight impacts of 170 basis points and 100 basis points, respectively.
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Tuesday, September 16, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
Cadrenal Therapeutics (CVKD)/OUTPERFORM – Acquisition Builds The Pipeline With Anticoagulants In Development
Cadrenal Therapeutics (CVKD/$13.37 | Price Target: $45) Robert LeBoyer rleboyer@noblefcm.com | (212) 896-4625 Acquisition Builds The Pipeline With Anticoagulants In Development Rating: OUTPERFORM
Cadrenal Acquires Complimentary Cardiovascular Products. Cadrenal announced that it has acquired the anti-coagulant assets of eXlthera Pharmaceuticals. The products include frunexian, a Pre-Phase-2 anti-coagulant drug that inhibits a different step in the coagulation cascade from tecarfarin. Frunexian is in development for different indications and could extend Cadrenal’s product line to additional indications that are not served by current drugs. The acquisition also includes an oral formulation and other research-stage molecules.
Frunexian Has Several Distinguishing Features. The lead product from eXlthera is frunexian, a Factor XIa inhibitor. Most of the DOAC (direct-acting oral anticoagulant) class target Factor Xa and have been developed for long-term use on an outpatient basis. In contrast, frunexian targets Factor XIa, a different component of the coagulation cascade.
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Monday, September 15, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
Euroseas (ESEA)/OUTPERFORM – Favorable Time Charter Contract for the M/V Jonathan P Greenwich LifeSciences, Inc. (GLSI)/OUTPERFORM – Fast Track Designation Gives Benefits Now And In The Future Metals & Mining (Metals & Mining) – Insights from the Precious Metals Summit
Euroseas (ESEA/$63.97 | Price Target: $71) Mark Reichman mreichman@noblefcm.com | (561) 999-2272 Hans Baldau hbaldau@noblefcm.com | Favorable Time Charter Contract for the M/V Jonathan P Rating: OUTPERFORM
New time charter contract. Euroseas Ltd. announced a new time charter for the M/V Jonathan P at a gross daily rate of $25,000 for a minimum of 11 months, with an option to extend to a maximum of 12 months at the charterer’s option. The charter will commence on November 17th.
Attractive rate and improved charter coverage. The new contract is in direct continuation of the current charter and represents a $5,000 per day increase. It is expected to contribute approximately $5.7 million in EBITDA over the minimum contract period and raise Euroseas’ charter coverage to 100% for the remainder of 2025 and 70% for 2026.
Greenwich LifeSciences, Inc. (GLSI/$11.23 | Price Target: $45) Robert LeBoyer rleboyer@noblefcm.com | (212) 896-4625 Fast Track Designation Gives Benefits Now And In The Future Rating: OUTPERFORM
GLSI-100 Received Fast Track Designation. Greenwich LifeSciences announced that GLSI-100 has received Fast Track designation from the FDA. In the near term, this designation allows GLSI increased communications and more FDA meetings regarding regulatory requirements for its clinical trial data and use of biomarkers. Once the FLAMINGO-01 trial is completed, GLSI will be eligible to apply for Accelerated Approval and Priority Review, potentially shortening the time to market.
The Designation Mirrors The Trial Entry Criteria. GLSI-100 has received Fast Track Designation from the FDA for the treatment of “patients with HLA-A*02 genotype and HER2-positive breast cancer who have completed treatment with standard of care HER2/neu targeted therapy to improve invasive breast cancer free survival…” This includes the clinical trial entry criteria and endpoints for the current double-blind arms of the trial.
Metals & Mining Mark Reichman mreichman@noblefcm.com | (561) 999-2272 Insights from the Precious Metals Summit
Precious Metals Summit. Noble Capital Markets was well represented at The Precious Metals Summit on September 9-12at the Beaver Creek Resort in Colorado. The conference attracted 1,700 registrants compared to approximately 1,200 in 2024 and included a broad spectrum of mining companies and institutional investors. Collectively, Noble had private meetings with over 70 company management teams during the invitation-only event.
Relative performance. Year-to-date through September 12,mining companies (as measured by the XME) appreciated 51.2% compared to a gain of 11.9% for the S&P 500 index. The VanEck Vectors Gold Miners (GDX) and Junior Gold Miners (GDXJ) ETFs were up 105.7% and 110.6%, respectively. Platinum, silver, and gold futures prices have gained 55.0%, 46.5%, and 39.6%, respectively, while copper, lead, and nickel increased 15.5%, 3.4% and 0.4%. Zinc declined 1.0%. Precious metals have led the charge as Central Banks around the world have added to global gold reserves, along with greater portfolio allocations among investors to precious metals as a hedge against rising inflation, a depreciating U.S. dollar, concerns about government debt, and increased geopolitical uncertainty. Moreover, there has been a desire among some nations to diversify away from the U.S. dollar as the benchmark reserve currency. Gold has become the global asset of choice to preserve value amid declining confidence in fiat currencies and an era of global monetary, geopolitical, and fiscal uncertainty.
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Friday, September 12, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
Nutriband (NTRB)/OUTPERFORM – Nutriband Reports 2Q26 With Product Progress SEGG Media Corporation (SEGG)/OUTPERFORM – Leveraging Strong Brands As A Foundation For Growth
Nutriband (NTRB/$6.93 | Price Target: $15) Robert LeBoyer rleboyer@noblefcm.com | (212) 896-4625 Nutriband Reports 2Q26 With Product Progress Rating: OUTPERFORM
AVERSA Fentanyl Is Moving Forward. Nutriband reported results from 2Q26, ended July 31, 2025, with a loss of $2.12 per share. Revenues for 2Q26 were $0.6 million compared with $0.4 million in 2Q25. The increase was attributed to the expansion of contract manufacturing services in the Pocono Pharma division that produces kinesiology tape. Net loss was $2.0 million before Preferred Dividends of $21.8 million, bringing Net Loss Available To Shareholders to $23.8 million. Cash at the end of the quarter was $6.9 million.
Meeting With The FDA Later In September. The company has scheduled a meeting with the FDA on September 18, 2025, to discuss the upcoming Phase 1 clinical trial for AVERSA Fentanyl. This is a Type C Meeting, requested by the company to discuss product development. The meeting agenda includes the CMC (Chemistry, Manufacturing, and Controls) and other aspects of the Investigational New Drug Application (IND) using the 505(b)(2) route of regulatory approval.
SEGG Media Corporation (SEGG/$5.63 | Price Target: $20) Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 Jacob Mutchler jmutchler@noblefcm.com | Leveraging Strong Brands As A Foundation For Growth Rating: OUTPERFORM
Initiation of coverage with Outperform rating and $20 price target. We are initiating coverage on SEGG Media (NASDAQ: SEGG) with an Outperform rating and $20 target. The company is a development-stage operator of international sports and gaming businesses, anchored by valuable brand assets including Sports.com, Lottery.com, TicketStub.com, and Concerts.com.
Developmental stage. Formed out of Lottery.com’s collapse, SEGG has been reconstituted under new leadership with a defined focus on leveraging globally recognized brands. Management is pursuing an asset-light model combining digital platforms, sports media rights, and consumer venues. We believe this strategy positions SEGG to re-establish credibility and execute a compelling growth plan.
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Thursday, September 11, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
Lucky Strike Entertainment (LUCK)/OUTPERFORM – Initiated Debt Refinancing Vince Holding Corp. (VNCE)/OUTPERFORM – Delivered A Strong Quarter
Lucky Strike Entertainment (LUCK/$9.6 | Price Target: $17.5) Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 Jacob Mutchler jmutchler@noblefcm.com | Initiated Debt Refinancing Rating: OUTPERFORM
Strategic update. On September 10, the company announced that its wholly-owned subsidiary Kingpin Intermediate Holdings LLC initiated a private offering of $700 million in new senior secured notes, due in 2032. Concurrently, the company launched a refinancing of its corporate term loan and revolving credit facility. The company expects the initial amount of the refinanced term loan and revolving credit facility to be $1 billion and $400 million, respectively.
Use of capital. Importantly, the net proceeds from the new debt offering and the refinanced credit facilities are earmarked for retiring the company’s existing term loan, revolving credit facility, and bridge loan, which was used to acquire 58 real estate assets in July. Furthermore, the remaining proceeds will be used to fund the company’s strategic initiatives.
Vince Holding Corp. (VNCE/$1.66 | Price Target: $4.5) Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 Jacob Mutchler jmutchler@noblefcm.com | Delivered A Strong Quarter Rating: OUTPERFORM
Solid Q2 Results. The company reported Q2 revenue of $73.2 million, modestly beating our estimate of $72.0 million, and adj. EBITDA of $6.7 million, which strongly outperformed our estimate of $0.85 million by 685%, as illustrated in Figure #1 Q2 Results. The strong adj. EBITDA was largely driven by management’s ability to execute on its tariff mitigation strategies, resulting in an improved gross profit margin.
Mitigating tariff impacts. Importantly, the company’s gross profit margin increased 300 basis points over the prior year period. The improvement was driven by lower product costing and higher pricing, contributing a 340 basis point improvement, as well as less discounting, which resulted in a 210 basis point improvement. However, the positive margin contributions were softened by tariff and freight impacts of 170 basis points and 100 basis points, respectively.
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Tuesday, September 9, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
Gyre Therapeutics, Inc (GYRE)/OUTPERFORM – Positioned To End YE2025 With Strong Products and Pipeline Development
Gyre Therapeutics, Inc (GYRE/$7.89 | Price Target: $20) Robert LeBoyer rleboyer@noblefcm.com | (212) 896-4625 Positioned To End YE2025 With Strong Products and Pipeline Development Rating: OUTPERFORM
Gyre Has Made Strong YTD Progress. Gyre has made significant progress during the first three quarters of FY2025 that we believe positions the company for a strong year-end. These developments include continued sales growth from two products introduced in 1H25, an application for Hydronidone approval in China, and the start of a Phase 2 clinical trial for Hydronidone in the US. The company also announced the appointment of Dr. Han Ying as the new CEO, a member of the Board of Directors since January 2025.
Hydronidone Data Showed Efficacy and Proof of Concept. The pivotal Phase 3 trial testing Hydronidone in Chronic Hepatitis B-associated fibrosis has met its primary endpoint of fibrosis regression. The study was conducted in China, and an application for approval by the NMPA (the Chinese regulatory authority) is planned for 3Q2025. Hydronidone has received Breakthrough Therapy Designation, allowing for accelerated review. We expect approval in 2H2026, followed by launch in FY2027.
OpenAI has become the world’s most valuable startup, eclipsing SpaceX after a secondary share sale valued the ChatGPT developer at $500 billion. The deal allowed current and former employees to sell $6.6 billion worth of stock to a group of major investors—a milestone that signals not just enthusiasm for artificial intelligence, but also fast-rising competition in global tech.
Why This Matters for Small Cap Investors
While OpenAI itself is not a small cap, surging valuations and investor demand for AI companies can create ripple effects across the market. The AI boom is leading to massive investment in data centers, cloud infrastructure, and semiconductor supply chains. Small cap companies—especially those in tech, chip manufacturing, data management, or specialized software—may find new opportunities and challenges, as larger firms race to build out AI capabilities.
OpenAI’s multibillion-dollar partnerships with Oracle and SK Hynix, among others, illustrate how the AI sector’s expansion could push demand down the supply chain. Small caps that supply hardware, data services, or niche AI solutions could see increased interest and valuations. Investors might want to look for companies linked to these large infrastructure projects or those with potential for strategic collaborations.
What the Secondary Sale Reveals
The secondary share sale let employees cash out stock without a public offering, a sign of strong investor appetite in the sector. OpenAI capped the sale at $10 billion, but only $6.6 billion changed hands—possibly reflecting employee belief in the company’s long-term prospects despite generous offers from competitors like Meta. For small cap investors, this speaks to the broader narrative: in a high-growth sector, early stakeholders may choose patience over liquidity, betting on future gains.
Strategic Shifts: Implications for Rivals and Partners
OpenAI’s rumoured shift toward a public benefit corporation and its ongoing governance debates with board members and investors suggest a business model evolution typical of high-growth, high-stakes tech startups. Smaller players often emulate these changes, or become attractive acquisition targets as legacy giants update their strategies. As the AI sector matures, small cap investors can benefit by tracking governance shifts—these often precede market-wide impacts.
Trends and Sectors to Monitor
AI infrastructure and hardware
Data management and analytics
Specialized software companies
Semiconductor manufacturers
Small tech firms entering strategic partnerships
The unprecedented capital flow into generative AI signals that more companies—big and small—will compete for a share of this rapidly expanding market. Tracking small caps that play a critical supporting role in AI’s supply chain could provide early exposure to growth as the sector matures.
Bottom Line
OpenAI’s $500 billion valuation is more than headline news: it’s a signal that the AI sector is entering a new phase, with opportunities extending beyond the headline giants. For small cap investors, paying attention to the companies beneath the surface—those building, supplying, and adapting to the needs of AI leaders—could be the key to capturing upside in this evolving landscape.
