Iconic All-American Burger Chain to Open Four Locations in Okinawa Over The Next Five Years
LOS ANGELES, Sept. 25, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — FAT (Fresh. Authentic. Tasty.) Brands Inc., parent company of Fatburger and 17 other restaurant concepts, announces a new partnership with Green Micro Factory Inc. to bring the beloved burger brand back to Japan. Four locations will open in Okinawa over the next five years, with the first unit slated to open before the end of the year.
“Okinawa presents a strategic opportunity for our return to Japan with its robust tourism and steady foot traffic generated by its military base presence,” said Taylor Wiederhorn, Chief Development Officer of FAT Brands. “We see our debut in Okinawa as the first step in our broader growth across the country as we look to win locals over with our custom-built burgers, Fat and Skinny Fries, hand-scooped milkshakes, and more.”
Ever since the first Fatburger opened in Los Angeles over 70 years ago, the chain has been known for its delicious, grilled-to-perfection and cooked-to-order burgers. Founder Lovie Yancey believed that a big burger with everything on it is a meal in itself; at Fatburger “everything” is not just the usual roster of toppings. Burgers can be customized with everything from bacon and eggs to chili and onion rings. In addition to its famous burgers, the Fatburger menu also includes Fat and Skinny Fries, sweet potato fries, scratch-made onion rings, Impossible™ Burgers, turkeyburgers, hand-breaded crispy chicken sandwiches, and hand-scooped milkshakes made from 100 percent real ice cream.
FAT Brands (NASDAQ: FAT) is a leading global franchising company that strategically acquires, markets and develops fast casual, quick-service, casual and polished casual dining restaurant concepts around the world. The Company currently owns 18 restaurant brands: Round Table Pizza, Fatburger, Marble Slab Creamery, Johnny Rockets, Fazoli’s, Twin Peaks, Great American Cookies, Smokey Bones, Hot Dog on a Stick, Buffalo’s Cafe & Express, Hurricane Grill & Wings, Pretzelmaker, Elevation Burger, Native Grill & Wings, Yalla Mediterranean and Ponderosa and Bonanza Steakhouses, and franchises and owns over 2,300 units worldwide. For more information on FAT Brands, please visit www.fatbrands.com.
About Fatburger
An all-American, Hollywood favorite, Fatburger is a fast-casual restaurant serving big, juicy, tasty burgers, crafted specifically to each customer’s liking. With a legacy spanning over 70 years, Fatburger’s extraordinary quality and taste inspire fierce loyalty amongst its fan base, which includes a number of A-list celebrities and athletes. Featuring a contemporary design and ambiance, Fatburger offers an unparalleled dining experience, demonstrating the same dedication to serving gourmet, homemade, custom-built burgers as it has since 1952 – The Last Great Hamburger Stand™.
Forward Looking Statements
This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including statements relating to the timing and performance of new store openings and area development agreements. Forward-looking statements reflect expectations of FAT Brands Inc. (“we” or “our”) concerning the future and are subject to significant business, economic and competitive risks, uncertainties and contingencies. These factors are difficult to predict and beyond our control, and could cause our actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in such forward-looking statements. We refer you to the documents that we file from time to time with the Securities and Exchange Commission, such as our reports on Form 10-K, Form 10-Q and Form 8-K, for a discussion of these and other factors. We undertake no obligation to update any forward-looking statement to reflect events or circumstances occurring after the date of this press release.
Kratos Latest Weapons-Configured Valkyrie will be On-Site
Kratos MAKO Tactical Jet Drone, the First CCA to Demonstrate Manned-Unmanned Teaming in 2015, also to be Displayed
SAN DIEGO, Sept. 25, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. (Nasdaq: KTOS), a Technology Company in the Defense, National Security and Global Markets and an industry-leading provider of high-performance, jet-powered unmanned aerial systems, will display tactical and target unmanned jet drones, including the latest weapons-configured Valkyrie, at the upcoming Marine Corps Air Station Miramar Air Show September 26-28. Kratos’ tactical family of unmanned jet drones is designed for a range of military operations, including strike, ISR (intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance), RF (radio frequency), and communications. This lineup features the latest advancements, including the XQ-58 Valkyrie, UTAP-22 Mako, Tactical Firejet, and BQM-177 target system.
The Miramar Air Show invites both domestic and international visitors to explore full-scale Kratos tactical and target aircraft systems on display. These innovative systems exemplify the future of uncrewed air technology, providing proven and affordable solutions for mass production, deployment, and military engagement. Kratos’ unique approach aligns seamlessly with the Department of Defense’s latest technology initiatives and affordability strategies, enabling systems that can operate effectively from even the most remote locations worldwide.
The XQ-58 Valkyrie is a Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA)/ Autonomous Collaborative Platform (ACP) designed to operate with Joint and Allied Forces. Flying since 2019, the XQ-58 continues to pioneer tactical unmanned aerial system (UAS) technology and collaborative manned-unmanned capability.
Steve Fendley, President of Kratos Unmanned Systems Division, said, “We are proud to showcase our latest drone technologies at Miramar, offering attendees a unique opportunity to see these systems in person. Kratos is a recognized leader in unmanned systems, delivering affordable, high-performance aerial platforms like the XQ-58 Valkyrie that support a wide range of national security missions with speed, agility, and innovation. The Miramar Air Show is the ideal venue to highlight Kratos’ game changing systems that represent the future.”
Eric DeMarco, President and CEO of Kratos, said, “We are once again honored to be able to display Kratos’ affordable, leading technology hardware and systems at the Miramar Air Show with our partner, the United States Marine Corps. The Marines are a demonstrated-technology innovation leader, including Kratos’ UTAP 22 Mako, a CCA that began flying manned-unmanned teaming with USMC Harrier manned jet fighters in 2015, through today with Kratos’ Valkyrie flying with USMC F-35s. Kratos will continue to work closely with the Marines, including with certain of our most recent Drone related systems and capabilities.”
Kratos’ Tactical Firejet is designed to affordably meet requirements for fast ingress and egress of tactically denied battle spaces with the ability to deliver significant payloads over long ranges at high speed.
Located in Hangar Three, visitors to Kratos’ display can also learn more about the Spartan Line of turbojet engines, showcasing unique capabilities for expendable engine applications, such as unmanned aerial systems and tactical missiles. Additionally, Kratos’ display will feature Elroy Air’s Chaparral, a hybrid-electric autonomous vertical takeoff-and-landing (VTOL) cargo drone, of which Kratos was recently announced as Elroy Air’s exclusive U.S. manufacturing partner.
Elroy Air’s Chaparral, of which Kratos is the exclusive U.S. manufacturer, is a hybrid-electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing cargo drone designed to autonomously transport 300 pounds of cargo over distances of 300 miles. Engineered for quick turnaround, efficiency, and safety, the Chaparral enables secure, uncrewed cargo delivery at a fraction of the capital and operational cost of piloted helicopters while eliminating risk to personnel in contested or high-risk logistics environments.
The Kratos Mako is a high-speed, highly maneuverable unmanned aerial system (UAS) with open mission-system flexibility and ample payload capacity to make it an affordable and highly effective solution.
Miramar Air Show attendees will have the opportunity to engage with various static displays of advanced aircraft, providing insights into the latest innovations in aviation technology. Held at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar in San Diego, California, the show also features aerial performances and dynamic flight demonstrations with cutting-edge aircraft.
With advanced aerodynamic design, the BQM-177 is a formidable high-performance target for live-fire training scenarios, including sub-sonic, sea-skimming anti-ship cruise missile accurate threat emulation.
About Kratos Defense & Security Solutions Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. (NASDAQ: KTOS) is a technology, products, system and software company addressing the defense, national security, and commercial markets. Kratos makes true internally funded research, development, capital and other investments, to rapidly develop, produce and field solutions that address our customers’ mission critical needs and requirements. At Kratos, affordability is a technology, and we seek to utilize proven, leading-edge approaches and technology, not unproven bleeding edge approaches or technology, with Kratos’ approach designed to reduce cost, schedule and risk, enabling us to be first to market with cost effective solutions. We believe that Kratos is known as an innovative disruptive change agent in the industry, a company that is an expert in designing products and systems up front for successful rapid, large quantity, low-cost future manufacturing which is a value add competitive differentiator for our large traditional prime system integrator partners and also to our government and commercial customers. Kratos intends to pursue program and contract opportunities as the prime or lead contractor when we believe that our probability of win (PWin) is high and any investment required by Kratos is within our capital resource comfort level. We intend to partner and team with a large, traditional system integrator when our assessment of PWin is greater or required investment is beyond Kratos’ comfort level. Kratos’ primary business areas include virtualized ground systems for satellites and space vehicles including software for command & control (C2) and telemetry, tracking and control (TT&C), jet powered unmanned aerial drone systems, hypersonic vehicles and rocket systems, propulsion systems for drones, missiles, loitering munitions, supersonic systems, space craft and launch systems, C5ISR and microwave electronic products for missile, radar, missile defense, space, satellite, counter UAS, directed energy, communication and other systems, and virtual & augmented reality training systems for the warfighter.
Notice Regarding Forward-Looking Statements Certain statements in this press release may constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such statements relate to a variety of matters including, without limitation, Kratos’ expectations regarding the use of the proceeds from the public offering, the pipeline for opportunities, and Kratos’ success with respect to such opportunities, as well as other statements that are not purely statements of historical fact. These forward-looking statements are made on the basis of the current beliefs, expectations and assumptions of the management of Kratos and are subject to significant risks and uncertainty. Investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements. All such forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made, and Kratos undertakes no obligation to update or revise these statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Although Kratos believes that the expectations reflected in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, these statements involve many risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from what may be expressed or implied in these forward-looking statements including, but not limited to: risks and uncertainties related to market conditions as well as general economic factors. For a further discussion of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ from those expressed in these forward-looking statements, as well as risks relating to the business of Kratos in general, see the risk disclosures in the Annual Report on Form 10-K of Kratos for the year ended December 29, 2024 and in subsequent reports on Forms 10-Q and 8-K and other filings made with the SEC by Kratos.
U.S. jobless claims unexpectedly declined last week, signaling continued resilience in the labor market even as hiring has slowed and the Federal Reserve keeps a close eye on economic momentum.
Initial claims for unemployment benefits totaled a seasonally adjusted 218,000 for the week ending Sept. 20, according to the Labor Department. That was a drop of 14,000 from the prior week’s upwardly revised level and came in well below the consensus forecast of 235,000. Continuing claims, which measure those still receiving benefits, edged slightly lower to 1.926 million.
The latest claims figures arrive against a backdrop of uncertainty about the economy’s trajectory. Payroll growth has cooled, and job openings remain at multiyear lows. The Fed recently responded by cutting its benchmark borrowing rate by a quarter percentage point to a range of 4% to 4.25%, its first reduction of 2025. Policymakers cited rising risks to employment as one factor behind the decision.
Still, the claims data suggests companies remain hesitant to lay off workers despite a noticeable pullback in hiring. Volatility in weekly figures continues, with Texas accounting for a sizable portion of recent swings, but the broader picture points to a labor market that is holding firmer than many expected.
Beyond the employment data, Thursday also brought signs of strength in other corners of the economy. Gross domestic product for the second quarter was revised sharply higher to an annualized gain of 3.8%. That marked a half-point improvement from the prior estimate and reflected stronger consumer spending than initially reported. Personal consumption, which makes up about two-thirds of U.S. economic activity, rose at a 2.5% pace, well above earlier estimates and the tepid 0.6% increase seen in the first quarter.
Durable goods orders added to the positive picture. Purchases of long-lasting items such as appliances, aircraft, and computers climbed 2.9% in August, defying forecasts for a decline and reversing a steep drop from July. Even excluding transportation equipment, orders grew 0.4% in the month and 1.9% when defense-related spending was excluded, underscoring broad-based demand.
The housing sector, which has been under pressure from higher borrowing costs, also showed signs of improvement. Sales of newly built homes jumped 20.5% in August, the largest monthly gain since early 2022. Existing home sales came in slightly ahead of expectations at an annualized rate of 4 million.
Taken together, the data paints a picture of an economy that continues to expand despite headwinds from tighter credit conditions, shifting trade policies, and global geopolitical challenges. Markets currently anticipate that the Fed will follow through with two more rate cuts before the end of the year, at its October and December meetings.
While policymakers acknowledge that growth is being restrained by elevated borrowing costs, they also see resilience across consumer spending, business investment, and labor markets. That combination has kept the outlook more balanced than some had feared heading into the final stretch of 2025.
Lottery.com’s International Gaming Platform Launch Accelerates Revenue Outlook
FORT WORTH, Texas, Sept. 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — SEGG Media Corporation (NASDAQ: SEGG, LTRYW) (the “Company” or “SEGG Media”) the global sports, entertainment, and gaming conglomerate, today announced the official launch of its international gaming platform at https://international.lottery.com. Players outside of the U.S. can visit the site today, create an account, and sample many games for free.
The strategic decision to bring operations in house to launch Lottery.com International will maximize revenue potential. The gaming platform was an asset acquired as part of the Company’s purchase of Spektrum Ltd. earlier this year. Lottery.com International will deploy the gaming platform in the global markets across Europe, Africa, and other high-growth territories and is projected to deliver approximately $6,350,000 in the coming FISCAL year (2026); marking an acceleration to the Company’s revenue outlook and sustained balance sheet growth.
Matthew McGahan, Chairman of SEGG Media, said: “This is another example of how the Company’s buy-and build strategy is allowing us to execute at speed and scale. We are confident in our ability to generate revenue from international gaming operations in the near term, and our mission is clear: to deliver long-term value for our shareholders and redefine the gaming experience for customers worldwide. This is about delivering results, quarter after quarter, and positioning SEGG Media as a leader in global gaming, including lottery.”
Tim Scoffham, CEO of Sports.com Media Group and Lottery.com International, added: “This is not just a launch — it’s a momentum shift. Letting consumers across the globe try our gaming platform provides a risk-free opportunity to introduce Lottery.com to millions of players around the world. Our strategy is disciplined operations, strategic expansion, rapid market penetration and capitalizing on the enormous opportunity at the convergence of sports, entertainment, and gaming.”
The Company’s international rollout represents a significant growth catalyss for the Company. By combining enhanced technology, local market execution, and SEGG Media’s buy-and-build approach, the Company is expected to scale revenues rapidly, drive higher multiples, and unlock shareholder value. Real money gaming will be made available to players on the platform in select jurisdictions starting in November. The Company will continue to allow players to enjoy free games in most markets as real money options are made available.
About SEGG Media Corporation SEGG Media (Nasdaq: SEGG, LTRYW) is a global sports, entertainment and gaming group operating a portfolio of digital assets including Sports.com, Concerts.com and Lottery.com. Focused on immersive fan engagement, ethical gaming and AI-driven live experiences, SEGG Media is redefining how global audiences interact with the content they love.
Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains statements that constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. All statements, other than statements of present or historical fact included in this press release, regarding the Company’s strategy, future operations, prospects, plans and objectives of management, are forward-looking statements. When used in this Form 8-K, the words “could,” “should,” “will,” “may,” “believe,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “estimate,” “expect,” “project,” “initiatives,” “continue,” the negative of such terms and other similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain such identifying words. These forward-looking statements are based on management’s current expectations and assumptions about future events and are based on currently available information as to the outcome and timing of future events. The forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this press release or as of the date they are made. The Company cautions you that these forward-looking statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, most of which are difficult to predict and many of which are beyond the control of the Company. In addition, the Company cautions you that the forward-looking statements contained in this press release are subject to risks and uncertainties, including but not limited to: the Company’s ability to secure additional capital resources; the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern; the Company’s ability to complete acquisitions; the Company’s ability to remain in compliance with Nasdaq Listing Rules; and those additional risks and uncertainties discussed under the heading “Risk Factors” in the Form 10-K/A filed by the Company with the SEC on April 22, 2025, and the other documents filed, or to be filed, by the Company with the SEC. Additional information concerning these and other factors that may impact the operations and projections discussed herein can be found in the reports that the Company has filed and will file from time to time with the SEC. These SEC filings are available publicly on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. Should one or more of the risks or uncertainties described in this press release materialize or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results and plans could differ materially from those expressed in any forward-looking statements. Except as otherwise required by applicable law, the Company disclaims any duty to update any forward-looking statements, all of which are expressly qualified by the statements in this section, to reflect events or circumstances after the date of this press release.
For additional information, visit www.seggmediacorp.com or contact media relations at media@seggmediacorp.com.
THIO-101 Phase 2 trial to enroll patients in the U.S. as part of the expansion of the study in third-line treatment for advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)
CHICAGO, Sept. 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — MAIA Biotechnology, Inc. (NYSE American: MAIA) (“MAIA”, the “Company”), a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing targeted immunotherapies for cancer, announced today that the National Institutes of Health (NIH) has awarded a $2.3 million grant for the expansion of its THIO-101 Phase 2 clinical trial evaluating ateganosine as a third-line treatment for patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).
The grant is intended to support expenses related to the enrollment of U.S. patients who are resistant to chemo and immunotherapy. The NIH grant allocations will be distributed over three years from 2025-2027.
“We are thrilled to receive this prestigious NIH grant for the expansion of our Phase 2 trial. It’s a great honor to have the support of the National Institutes of Health as we seek to further validate the efficacy of our lead agent ateganosine and its potential to be a breakthrough treatment within the vastly underserved NSCLC market,” said CEO Vlad Vitoc, M.D. “With the clearance of FDA Investigational New Drug (IND) for THIO-101 in 2023, we can begin enrolling U.S. patients in the expansion phase of the trial immediately.”
“The NIH grant is a tremendous achievement and a testament to the dedication, collaboration, and hard work of everyone involved in the clinical development of ateganosine,” added Victor Zaporojan, M.D., MAIA’s senior medical director. “Ateganosine represents a potential solution for the significant unmet clinical need in third-line NSCLC, where no established standard of care exists and where the overall survival outcomes observed with ateganosine have not been achieved by other therapies. By enrolling patients in the United States, our trial will gain access to a substantially larger patient pool across multiple continents, further strengthening the impact and relevance of our study.”
In Parts A and B of THIO-101, median overall survival (OS) for the 22 patients in third-line treatment was 17.8 months as of June 30, 2025, with a 95% confidence interval (CI) lower bound of 12.5 months and a 99% CI lower bound of 10.8 months. Studies of standard-of-care chemotherapy treatments for NSCLC in a similar setting have shown overall survival of 5 to 6 months. The first patient in the expansion of the trial was dosed in July 2025 in Taiwan.
Research referenced in this press release is supported by the National Cancer Institute of the National Institutes of Health under Award Number R44CA309843. The content is solely the responsibility of MAIA and does not necessarily represent the official views of the National Institutes of Health.
About Ateganosine
Ateganosine (THIO, 6-thio-dG or 6-thio-2’-deoxyguanosine) is a first-in-class investigational telomere-targeting agent currently in clinical development to evaluate its activity in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Telomeres, along with the enzyme telomerase, play a fundamental role in the survival of cancer cells and their resistance to current therapies. The modified nucleotide 6-thio-2’-deoxyguanosine induces telomerase-dependent telomeric DNA modification, DNA damage responses, and selective cancer cell death. Ateganosine-damaged telomeric fragments accumulate in cytosolic micronuclei and activates both innate (cGAS/STING) and adaptive (T-cell) immune responses. The sequential treatment of ateganosine followed by PD-(L)1 inhibitors resulted in profound and persistent tumor regression in advanced, in vivo cancer models by induction of cancer type–specific immune memory. Ateganosine is presently developed as a second or later line of treatment for NSCLC for patients that have progressed beyond the standard-of-care regimen of existing checkpoint inhibitors.
About THIO-101 Phase 2 Clinical Trial
THIO-101 is a multicenter, open-label, dose finding Phase 2 clinical trial. It is the first trial designed to evaluate ateganosine’s anti-tumor activity when followed by PD-(L)1 inhibition. The trial is testing the hypothesis that low doses of ateganosine administered prior to cemiplimab (Libtayo®) will enhance and prolong immune response in patients with advanced NSCLC who previously did not respond or developed resistance and progressed after first-line treatment regimen containing another checkpoint inhibitor. The trial design has two primary objectives: (1) to evaluate the safety and tolerability of ateganosine administered as an anticancer compound and a priming immune activator (2) to assess the clinical efficacy of ateganosine using Overall Response Rate (ORR) as the primary clinical endpoint. The expansion of the study will assess overall response rates (ORR) in advanced NSCLC patients receiving third line (3L) therapy who were resistant to previous checkpoint inhibitor treatments (CPI) and chemotherapy. Treatment with ateganosine followed by cemiplimab (Libtayo®) has shown an acceptable safety profile to date in a heavily pre-treated population. For more information on this Phase II trial, please visit ClinicalTrials.gov using the identifier NCT05208944.
About MAIA Biotechnology, Inc.
MAIA is a targeted therapy, immuno-oncology company focused on the development and commercialization of potential first-in-class drugs with novel mechanisms of action that are intended to meaningfully improve and extend the lives of people with cancer. Our lead program is ateganosine (THIO), a potential first-in-class cancer telomere targeting agent in clinical development for the treatment of NSCLC patients with telomerase-positive cancer cells. For more information, please visit www.maiabiotech.com.
Forward Looking Statements
MAIA cautions that all statements, other than statements of historical facts contained in this press release, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors that may cause our or our industry’s actual results, levels or activity, performance or achievements to be materially different from those anticipated by such statements. The use of words such as “may,” “might,” “will,” “should,” “could,” “expect,” “plan,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “project,” “intend,” “future,” “potential,” or “continue,” and other similar expressions are intended to identify forward looking statements. However, the absence of these words does not mean that statements are not forward-looking. For example, all statements we make regarding (i) the initiation, timing, cost, progress and results of our preclinical and clinical studies and our research and development programs, (ii) our ability to advance product candidates into, and successfully complete, clinical studies, (iii) the timing or likelihood of regulatory filings and approvals, (iv) our ability to develop, manufacture and commercialize our product candidates and to improve the manufacturing process, (v) the rate and degree of market acceptance of our product candidates, (vi) the size and growth potential of the markets for our product candidates and our ability to serve those markets, and (vii) our expectations regarding our ability to obtain and maintain intellectual property protection for our product candidates, are forward looking. All forward-looking statements are based on current estimates, assumptions and expectations by our management that, although we believe to be reasonable, are inherently uncertain. Any forward-looking statement expressing an expectation or belief as to future events is expressed in good faith and believed to be reasonable at the time such forward-looking statement is made. However, these statements are not guarantees of future events and are subject to risks and uncertainties and other factors beyond our control that may cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in any forward-looking statement. Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which it was made. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law. In this release, unless the context requires otherwise, “MAIA,” “Company,” “we,” “our,” and “us” refers to MAIA Biotechnology, Inc. and its subsidiaries.
Shares of Lithium Americas (NYSE: LAC) soared nearly 100% on Wednesday after reports that the Trump administration is considering taking a stake in the company as part of a renegotiated federal loan package tied to the development of the Thacker Pass lithium mine in Nevada.
According to Reuters, the administration is seeking as much as a 10% equity stake in the Vancouver-based miner. The proposed arrangement comes as Lithium Americas works through terms of a $2.26 billion loan from the Department of Energy, originally granted during the first Trump administration.
Under the current negotiations, the company has offered the government no-cost warrants for up to 10% of its common stock. At the same time, the administration is reportedly pressing General Motors (NYSE: GM) — which owns a 38% stake in Thacker Pass and has invested $625 million — for purchase guarantees that would help shore up demand for the lithium produced at the site. GM shares ticked higher by more than 2% on the news.
A Strategic Lithium Project
Thacker Pass is expected to play a central role in U.S. energy security. Once operational, the project is projected to be the largest lithium mining operation in the Western Hemisphere. Its first production phase, slated for 2028, is forecast to produce more than 40,000 metric tons of lithium carbonate annually — enough to power batteries for roughly 800,000 electric vehicles.
For perspective, Albemarle’s (NYSE: ALB) Silver Peak mine in Nevada, currently the only operating lithium mine in the U.S., produces fewer than 5,000 metric tons per year. This makes Thacker Pass a significant leap in domestic production capacity at a time when global demand for electric vehicles, battery storage, and clean energy technologies is surging.
China currently dominates the global lithium industry, producing more than 40,000 metric tons per year and refining more than 65% of the world’s supply. By comparison, the U.S. refines less than 3%. This imbalance has made lithium one of the most strategically sensitive commodities in the energy transition.
“Lithium is the new oil,” said one energy analyst, noting that securing supply has become a cornerstone of U.S. industrial policy. “Without it, you can’t scale EV adoption or battery storage, and that makes projects like Thacker Pass crucial to long-term energy independence.”
The government’s interest in Lithium Americas follows similar moves to shore up domestic supply chains for other critical materials. In July, MP Materials (NYSE: MP) announced a multibillion-dollar deal with the Department of Defense that made the government its largest shareholder, boosting MP’s stock more than 50%. Meanwhile, Intel (NASDAQ: INTC) has climbed over 25% since talks of a potential government stake in the chipmaker became public.
This pattern underscores the administration’s strategy of leveraging federal investment to reduce reliance on foreign sources of essential resources, from rare earth elements to semiconductors.
Lithium Americas stock traded at $6.09 as of 2:08 p.m. EDT, up more than 98% on the day. The sharp rally comes despite ongoing weakness in lithium prices, which have fallen over the past year amid oversupply from China. Futures for lithium carbonate are down more than 12%, while lithium hydroxide has dropped more than 4.5%.
Those price pressures have raised concerns about the financial viability of large-scale U.S. mining projects. The administration’s involvement could provide a stabilizing force, ensuring that key projects like Thacker Pass remain on track. The first loan draw is expected this month, with construction at the Nevada site already underway.
For now, investors appear to be betting that federal backing — and a potential government equity stake — could cement Lithium Americas’ role as a cornerstone of America’s clean energy future.
Patrick McCann, CFA, Research Analyst, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.
Michael Kupinski, Director of Research, Equity Research Analyst, Digital, Media & Technology , Noble Capital Markets, Inc.
Refer to the full report for the price target, fundamental analysis, and rating.
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.
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Integral Ad Science (Nasdaq: IAS), a global leader in media measurement and optimization, announced Wednesday that it has entered into a definitive agreement to be acquired by Novacap, a North American private equity firm, in a transaction valued at approximately $1.9 billion.
Under the deal, Novacap will purchase all outstanding shares of IAS for $10.30 per share in cash, representing a roughly 22% premium over the company’s closing price on September 23. The agreement, which has been unanimously approved by IAS’s board of directors, is expected to close before the end of 2025, pending regulatory approvals.
Once finalized, IAS will become a privately held company and its shares will no longer trade on public markets. Current shareholder Vista Equity Partners, which played a significant role in expanding IAS’s AI-powered platform and customer base, will exit its investment upon completion of the deal.
For IAS, the acquisition represents a chance to accelerate its growth and innovation strategy in digital media quality. CEO Lisa Utzschneider highlighted the move as a milestone that will provide the company with the resources and flexibility to expand its AI-first measurement and optimization platform.
“Our mission has always been to set the global benchmark for trust and transparency in digital media quality,” Utzschneider said in a statement. “With Novacap’s support, we’ll be able to further scale our platform and deliver even more value to advertisers, publishers, and media partners.”
Novacap, which manages more than $10 billion in assets, sees IAS as a category leader with significant potential. Samuel Nasso, a partner at the firm, said Novacap plans to work closely with IAS leadership to accelerate innovation and strengthen its solutions for global brands and publishers.
The transaction is not subject to any financing conditions, and a majority of IAS shareholders have already approved the deal through written consent. Financial advisory roles were split, with Jefferies advising IAS and Evercore advising Novacap. Legal counsel was provided by Kirkland & Ellis for IAS and Willkie Farr & Gallagher for Novacap.
Founded in 2009, IAS has established itself as a trusted player in the digital advertising ecosystem, providing data and tools to ensure ads are viewable, brand-safe, and optimized for performance. By joining forces with Novacap, the company is expected to sharpen its competitive edge and continue expanding its role as a benchmark for media transparency in the rapidly evolving adtech landscape.
If the transaction closes on schedule, IAS will continue operating under its existing name and brand while shifting into private ownership under Novacap.
Pfizer Inc. (NYSE: PFE) has announced plans to acquire Metsera, Inc. (NASDAQ: MTSR), a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company developing next-generation obesity and cardiometabolic treatments. The all-cash deal, valued at $47.50 per share, represents an enterprise value of approximately $4.9 billion, with the potential for an additional $22.50 per share in contingent milestone payments tied to clinical and regulatory approvals.
The acquisition marks Pfizer’s most significant push yet into the rapidly growing obesity treatment market, an area forecasted to reach hundreds of billions in value globally over the coming decade. With over 200 health conditions linked to obesity, pharmaceutical companies are racing to develop therapies that offer stronger efficacy, fewer side effects, and more convenient dosing schedules.
Metsera brings to Pfizer a diverse pipeline of incretin and amylin programs, including both injectable and oral formulations designed to improve weight loss outcomes. Its lead candidates include:
MET-097i, a weekly and monthly injectable GLP-1 receptor agonist currently in Phase 2 trials.
MET-233i, a monthly amylin analog in Phase 1 development, being tested both as monotherapy and in combination with MET-097i.
Two oral GLP-1 receptor agonist candidates expected to begin clinical trials in the near term.
Additional preclinical nutrient-stimulated hormone therapeutics under development.
Preliminary clinical data for MET-233i presented at the 61st Annual Meeting of the European Association for the Study of Diabetes (EASD) indicated a potentially best-in-class profile, with strong durability and tolerability supporting less frequent injections.
Pfizer expects to leverage its global clinical, manufacturing, and commercial infrastructure to accelerate the development of Metsera’s portfolio. The acquisition aligns with the company’s broader strategy of expanding into high-growth therapeutic areas where demand is accelerating.
Under the agreement, Metsera shareholders will receive $47.50 in cash upon closing, with the possibility of an additional $22.50 per share through contingent value rights (CVRs). These CVRs include:
$5 per share upon the initiation of a Phase 3 trial for the MET-097i + MET-233i combination.
$7 per share upon U.S. FDA approval of MET-097i as a monthly monotherapy.
$10.50 per share upon FDA approval of the monthly MET-097i + MET-233i combination.
If all milestones are achieved, the transaction value could exceed $7 billion.
The deal has been unanimously approved by both companies’ boards of directors and is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2025, subject to regulatory approval and shareholder consent.
With this acquisition, Pfizer joins competitors such as Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk in intensifying the race to dominate the obesity treatment market. By combining Metsera’s innovative science with Pfizer’s scale, the company aims to deliver next-generation weight management solutions to millions of patients worldwide.
GEK800 Small Engine Designed to Power the Next Generation of Affordable Unmanned Aerial Systems and CCA-type Aircraft
AFRL, GE Aerospace, Kratos Defense, and Purdue Zucrow Labs Collaborating on Extremely Tight Testing Timeline
SAN DIEGO, Sept. 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. (Nasdaq: KTOS), a Technology Company in the Defense, National Security and Global Markets, and GE Aerospace (NYSE: GE) announced that they have started altitude testing on its GEK800 small engine designed to power the next generation of affordable unmanned aerial systems and CCA-type aircraft. The testing began today at an altitude test facility at Purdue University’s Maurice J. Zucrow Laboratories.
“Altitude testing is the next milestone in demonstrating our commitment to delivering high-performance, affordable, jet engines to support our defense customers,” said Stacey Rock, President of Kratos Turbine Technologies. “Our team is uniquely positioned to bring these advanced designs into high-rate production to support the rising demand for propulsion systems for cruise missiles and CCA-type aircraft. The GEK800 has been designed and engineered up front, from conception, to be manufactured in large quantities at a low cost.”
“The GEK800 engine has performed well and exceeded our expectations in its ground testing to date,” said Mark Rettig, Vice President of Edison Works Advanced Programs at GE Aerospace. “During altitude testing, we will collect data on the engine’s performance in a range of altitudes to assess its operability in simulated real-world conditions.”
“We are thrilled that the propulsion test infrastructure of our new lab created the opportunity to test the new GEK800 engine,” said Scott Meyer, Managing Director of Zucrow Laboratories. “The cooperation and comradery between the GE and Kratos teams, and our students and staff at Zucrow Labs, has been amazingly productive and a pleasure to be a part of. We are excited to have a role in the development of this critical new capability for our nation.”
The GEK800 is an 800-lb jet engine that could potentially power unmanned aerial systems (UAS), collaborative combat aircraft (CCAs), and missiles. Initially developed and ground tested by Kratos over the course of a decade, Kratos and GE Aerospace began working together in 2023 to complete additional development efforts and testing on the engine and have completed more than 50 engine starts in ground testing at Kratos and GE Aerospace testing facilities.
The altitude testing will focus on an altitude window between 5,000-35,000 feet and is anticipated to be complete by the end of the year. GE Aerospace, Kratos, and Purdue University have been collaborating for the last few months on the engine testing, which will be the first engine to test at newly expanded ZL9 test facility at Zucrow Labs.
“The collaboration between AFRL, GE Aerospace, Kratos Defense, and Purdue Zucrow Labs on an extremely tight timeline is outstanding. While demonstrating engine technology is clearly significant, the successful development of rapid and affordable altitude test capability is a crucial element in delivering on our nation’s defense readiness,” said Chris Rawlings, Vice President, of Kratos Turbine Technologies Defense Programs.
In June, Kratos and GE Aerospace announced the signing of a formal teaming agreement to advance propulsion technologies for the next generation of affordable unmanned aerial systems and CCA-type aircraft. This collaboration strengthens the companies’ ongoing partnership and builds on last year’s Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to advance the development and production of small, cost-effective engines for unmanned platforms. The new teaming agreement expands on that MOU and provides the framework for the two companies to develop, manufacture, test, and field the GEK800 engine.
Kratos brings more than 25 years of experience developing and producing small, affordable engines for UAS, drones, and missile platforms. GE Aerospace adds a century of expertise in propulsion technology and the ability to scale advanced designs into high-rate production —helping bridge the gap from prototype to deployment.
About Kratos Defense & Security Solutions Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. (NASDAQ: KTOS) is a technology, products, system and software company addressing the defense, national security, and commercial markets. Kratos makes true internally funded research, development, capital, and other investments, to rapidly develop, produce and field solutions that address our customers’ mission critical needs and requirements. At Kratos, affordability is a technology, and we seek to utilize proven, leading-edge approaches and technology, not unproven bleeding edge approaches or technology, with Kratos’ approach designed to reduce cost, schedule, and risk, enabling us to be first to market with cost effective solutions. We believe that Kratos is known as an innovative disruptive change agent in the industry, a company that is an expert in designing products and systems up front for successful rapid, large quantity, low-cost future manufacturing which is a value-add competitive differentiator for our large traditional prime system integrator partners and also to our government and commercial customers. Kratos intends to pursue program and contract opportunities as the prime or lead contractor when we believe that our probability of win (PWin) is high, and any investment required by Kratos is within our capital resource comfort level. We intend to partner and team with a large, traditional system integrator when our assessment of PWin is greater or required investment is beyond Kratos’ comfort level. Kratos’ primary business areas include virtualized ground systems for satellites and space vehicles including software for command & control (C2) and telemetry, tracking and control (TT&C), jet powered unmanned aerial drone systems, hypersonic vehicles and rocket systems, propulsion systems for drones, missiles, loitering munitions, supersonic systems, space craft and launch systems, C5ISR and microwave electronic products for missile, radar, missile defense, space, satellite, counter UAS, directed energy, communication and other systems, and virtual & augmented reality training systems for the warfighter. For more information, visit www.KratosDefense.com.
About GE Aerospace GE Aerospace is a global aerospace propulsion, services, and systems leader with an installed base of approximately 49,000 commercial and 29,000 military aircraft engines. With a global team of approximately 53,000 employees building on more than a century of innovation and learning, GE Aerospace is committed to inventing the future of flight, lifting people up, and bringing them home safely. Learn more about how GE Aerospace and its partners are defining flight for today, tomorrow, and the future at www.geaerospace.com.
Notice Regarding Forward-Looking Statements Certain statements in this press release may constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements are made on the basis of the current beliefs, expectations and assumptions of the management of Kratos and are subject to significant risks and uncertainty. Investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements. All such forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made, and Kratos undertakes no obligation to update or revise these statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Although Kratos believes that the expectations reflected in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, these statements involve many risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from what may be expressed or implied in these forward-looking statements. For a further discussion of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ from those expressed in these forward-looking statements, as well as risks relating to the business of Kratos in general, see the risk disclosures in the Annual Report on Form 10-K of Kratos for the year ended December 29, 2024, and in subsequent reports on Forms 10-Q and 8-K and other filings made with the SEC by Kratos.
SAN DIEGO, Sept. 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. (Nasdaq: KTOS), a Technology Company in the Defense, National Security and Global Markets, today announced that Elroy Air, a leading developer of autonomous aerial cargo systems for middle-mile logistics and military resupply, has selected Kratos as Elroy Air’s exclusive U.S. manufacturing partner for the Chaparral in a new five-year strategic manufacturing agreement to accelerate expected high-volume production of the Chaparral hybrid-electric autonomous vertical takeoff-and-landing (VTOL) cargo drone.
Elroy Air’s Chaparral, shown here in flight, to be manufactured by Kratos
“Kratos is an established and trusted producer of military UAS and is unique in their manufacturing focus on affordability. Kratos has produced and delivered thousands of uncrewed aircraft, with a well-established and reliable supply chain for these systems. Their expanded production capabilities make them the ideal partner to bring Chaparral to market at scale,” said Elroy Air CEO Andrew Clare. “This partnership accelerates our ability to deliver Chaparral systems to the many customers waiting for them, across both defense and commercial markets.”
Kratos, a proven leader in the development and production of affordable, jet-powered composite unmanned aircraft for the U.S. Department of Defense, recently expanded its manufacturing capacity to support next-generation drone production. This new partnership leverages Kratos’ deep expertise and scaled infrastructure to put the Chaparral into high-volume production.
Eric DeMarco, President and CEO of Kratos, said, “Kratos is the recognized industry leader for rapid development, production, and delivery of affordable, leading technology unmanned aerial drone systems, which is a perfect fit with Elroy Air’s UAV roadmap, incredibly large forecasted addressable market and related future high volume production plans, including for the U.S. military. Kratos provides Elroy Air an immediate and unique competitive, customer differentiating, value-multiplier advantage, with Kratos’ up and running manufacturing facilities, qualified and executing supply chain and relevant past performance qualifications. Kratos’ partnership with Elroy Air is a recent example of Kratos delivering relevant products, not promises, power points and renditions, with expected tangible value creation for our stakeholders.”
“We are thrilled to partner with Elroy Air to produce their industry-leading drone for the dual-use market,” said Steve Fendley, President of Kratos Unmanned Systems Division. “Elroy Air’s market opportunity for Chaparral is already large and continuing to grow. With this growth, Kratos is ideally suited to transition the system to production. The Kratos team is the best in the world at establishing UAS production lines and optimizing affordability.”
Chaparral is designed to autonomously transport up to 300 pounds of cargo over 300 miles, affordably bridging critical logistics gaps for military resupply, disaster relief, and commercial express delivery. The vehicle’s unique hybrid-electric powertrain enables rapid refueling, extra power for recharging batteries and powering payloads in cruise flight, and longer-range cargo transport than similar-sized battery-electric aircraft.
Kratos will perform initial production of Chaparral at their Sacramento, California aircraft production facility and over time, transition to high-rate production at Kratos’ facilities in Oklahoma City. These efforts are expected to bring aerospace jobs to both regions and expand the current supply chain infrastructure that includes many other states across our nation. The first production Chaparral aircraft are planned to be built in 2026.
“Kratos’ proven ability to produce large, composite drones in high volumes makes them the perfect partner to help us scale production of the Chaparral,” said Dave Merrill, Elroy Air’s Founder and Executive Chairman. “Our customers are eager to expand their operations with our systems, and Kratos’ deep production expertise and track record will enable us to deliver robust, world-class Chaparral vehicles in high volumes.”
Kratos and Elroy Air will have their unmanned aircraft systems on display together at the upcoming Miramar Air Show held September 26-28 at the Marine Corps Air Station Miramar in San Diego, California.
About Kratos Defense & Security Solutions Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. (NASDAQ: KTOS) is a technology, products, system and software company addressing the defense, national security, and commercial markets. Kratos makes true internally funded research, development, capital and other investments, to rapidly develop, produce and field solutions that address our customers’ mission critical needs and requirements. At Kratos, affordability is a technology, and we seek to utilize proven, leading-edge approaches and technology, not unproven bleeding-edge approaches or technology, with Kratos’ approach designed to reduce cost, schedule and risk, enabling us to be first to market with cost effective solutions. We believe that Kratos is known as an innovative disruptive change agent in the industry, a company that is an expert in designing products and systems up front for successful rapid, large quantity, low-cost future manufacturing which is a value-add competitive differentiator for our large traditional prime system integrator partners and also to our government and commercial customers. Kratos intends to pursue program and contract opportunities as the prime or lead contractor when we believe that our probability of win (PWin) is high and any investment required by Kratos is within our capital resource comfort level. We intend to partner and team with a large, traditional system integrator when our assessment of PWin is greater or required investment is beyond Kratos’ comfort level. Kratos’ primary business areas include virtualized ground systems for satellites and space vehicles including software for command & control (C2) and telemetry, tracking and control (TT&C), jet powered unmanned aerial drone systems, hypersonic vehicles and rocket systems, propulsion systems for drones, missiles, loitering munitions, supersonic systems, space craft and launch systems, C5ISR and microwave electronic products for missile, radar, missile defense, space, satellite, counter UAS, directed energy, communication and other systems, and virtual & augmented reality training systems for the warfighter. For more information, visit http://www.kratosdefense.com.
About Elroy Air Elroy Air is developing industry-first autonomous aircraft systems and cutting-edge software to revolutionize express shipping. Deploying innovative hybrid-electric and autonomous vehicle technologies, their vertical-takeoff-and-landing (VTOL) aircraft transcend traditional airport limitations, unlocking new frontiers in commercial air cargo, humanitarian aid, and military logistics. From agile, low-risk resupply for troops, to dynamic disaster response and firefighting support, to warehouse-to-warehouse express parcel transport, Elroy Air’s technology reshapes logistics possibilities. With facilities in Byron California, Elroy Air is backed by premier venture capital firms including Diamondstream Partners, Catapult Ventures, Marlinspike Partners, Snowpoint Ventures, and Shield Capital. Strategic investment from industry giants like Lockheed Martin Ventures and support from visionary angel investors including early Uber executives drive the company’s mission to provide same-day shipping to every person on the planet. For more information, visit elroyair.com.
Notice Regarding Forward-Looking Statements Certain statements in this press release may constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements are made on the basis of the current beliefs, expectations and assumptions of the management of Kratos and are subject to significant risks and uncertainty. Investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements. All such forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made, and Kratos undertakes no obligation to update or revise these statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Although Kratos believes that the expectations reflected in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, these statements involve many risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from what may be expressed or implied in these forward-looking statements. For a further discussion of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ from those expressed in these forward-looking statements, as well as risks relating to the business of Kratos in general, see the risk disclosures in the Annual Report on Form 10-K of Kratos for the year ended December 29, 2024, and in subsequent reports on Forms 10-Q and 8-K and other filings made with the SEC by Kratos.
Third Annual Collaboration Coincides with Breast Cancer Awareness Month
NORWOOD, Mass., Sept. 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Betty’s Eddies™ announced its third annual collaboration with the Keep A Breast Foundation (“KAB”), furthering its commitment to breast cancer awareness, early screening education, and community support. After years of hearing from patients and consumers who have used Betty’s Eddies to help cope with treatment-related ailments, the brand is continuing its mission to spotlight the power of cannabis alongside preventative health practices. Betty’s Eddies, the award-winning, all-natural cannabis fruit chews handcrafted for specific health and wellness effects, is produced and distributed by leading multi-state cannabis operator, MariMed Inc. (“MariMed”) (CSE: MRMD) (OTCQX: MRMD).
This year’s campaign once again features a limited-time pink package for the fan-favorite Ache Away Eddies fruit chews, available across Massachusetts, Maryland, Illinois, and Delaware. The packaging promotes the Keep A Breast app, a free resource on Apple and Google Play that educates users on self-checking, offers risk-reduction tips, and connects directly to medical professionals when needed. Ache Away Eddies, infused with CBD, CBC, and THC, plus turmeric, piperine, and vitamin E, may help ease inflammation and aid recovery.
To amplify awareness, Betty’s Eddies will also distribute a limited number of “Betty’s Loves Boobies” bracelets and t-shirts at select dispensaries and online, while supplies last. The brand will be donating $5 from the sale of every t-shirt to KAB in support of its mission.
“Over the past three years, our partnership with Betty’s Eddies has reached thousands of new people with life-saving education around early detection and screening,” said Shaney Jo Darden, Founder of the Keep A Breast Foundation. “As cannabis continues to show promise in easing the painful side effects of cancer treatment, Betty’s Eddies remains an ideal partner in helping us expand our impact.”
In addition to its partnership with KAB, Betty’s Eddies team members will participate in multiple Susan G. Komen More Than Pink Walks this October, showing support, raising awareness, and connecting directly with local communities in Maryland on Saturday, October 11, 2025, and in Massachusetts on Saturday, October 18, 2025. The Susan G. Komen Foundation focuses its work on patient navigation and advocacy, providing resources for breast cancer patients to understand the American medical system.
“Betty’s Eddies is deeply committed to promoting health and wellness and doing so in a fun, yet educational way,” said Sara Rosenfield, Brand Manager for Betty’s Eddies. “Our partnership with the Keep A Breast Foundation and our Breast Cancer Awareness Month campaign is a natural extension of that commitment. We’re proud to help educate the community about the importance of prioritizing their health and contribute to ridding the world of this horrible disease, while sharing the benefits cannabis can have in providing relief.”
About MariMed MariMed Inc. is a leading multi-state cannabis operator, known for developing and managing state-of-the-art cultivation, production, and retail facilities. Our award-winning portfolio of cannabis brands, including Betty’s Eddies™, Bubby’s Baked™, Vibations™, InHouse™, and Nature’s Heritage™, sets us apart as an industry leader. These trusted brands, crafted with quality and innovation, are recognized and loved by consumers across the country. With a commitment to excellence, MariMed continues to drive growth and set new standards in the cannabis industry. For additional information, visit www.marimedinc.com.
Eli Lilly (NYSE: LLY) announced plans to invest $6.5 billion in a new manufacturing facility in Houston, Texas, designed to expand production of its pipeline of small molecule medicines, including the company’s highly anticipated oral obesity pill, orforglipron.
The facility will be the second of four new U.S.-based plants Lilly intends to open over the next five years, following a February pledge of at least $27 billion in domestic manufacturing investments. This adds to more than $23 billion the company has already spent since 2020 to scale operations in response to soaring demand for obesity and diabetes therapies.
The Houston site will play a critical role in Eli Lilly’s efforts to maintain its competitive lead in the rapidly expanding market for GLP-1 drugs. Unlike existing weekly injectable treatments, orforglipron is designed as an oral pill, offering patients a simpler alternative without food or water restrictions. Analysts believe the convenience factor could make orforglipron a blockbuster treatment if approved by regulators.
The race to scale production has become increasingly urgent. Both Eli Lilly and rival Novo Nordisk have faced supply challenges as demand for weight-loss medications surged across the United States. By boosting capacity, Lilly aims to ensure orforglipron can be manufactured at scale and delivered to tens of millions of patients worldwide.
The Houston facility will also support manufacturing of other small molecule medicines across a range of therapeutic areas, including cardiometabolic disease, oncology, immunology, and neuroscience. Small molecule drugs, which are typically produced in pill form, are generally easier and cheaper to manufacture than injectables, making them more accessible for patients and more efficient to scale globally.
In addition to strengthening its supply chain, Eli Lilly highlighted the economic impact of the new site. The project is expected to create 615 permanent jobs in the Houston area, spanning roles such as engineers, scientists, operations staff, and lab technicians. During construction, the facility will generate more than 4,000 temporary jobs, further supporting the region’s economy.
The company also emphasized that the move supports broader U.S. efforts to re-shore pharmaceutical manufacturing. In recent years, political pressure has mounted to reduce reliance on overseas drug production. By expanding its domestic footprint, Lilly positions itself as a leader in bringing pharmaceutical manufacturing back to the U.S. while meeting escalating global demand for obesity treatments.
With four new U.S. plants scheduled to be operational within five years, Eli Lilly is positioning itself at the forefront of the next generation of obesity and metabolic care. The Houston facility is expected to serve as a cornerstone of that strategy, ensuring supply can keep pace with demand in one of the fastest-growing markets in modern medicine.
