Page 245 – Channelchek

Release – ISG Announces 2024 ISG Paragon Awards™ ANZ Winners

Posted on February 29, 2024February 29, 2024 by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

2/28/2024

Program recognizes innovative and impactful sourcing industry partnerships

SYDNEY–(BUSINESS WIRE)– Information Services Group (ISG) (Nasdaq: III), a leading global technology research and advisory firm, has announced the winners of the 2024 ISG Paragon Awards™ ANZ, which celebrate the ongoing transformation of sourcing industry partnerships with new solutions and technologies.

A total of 50 nominations were submitted for the annual ANZ program. Winners in each category were selected by an experienced independent expert and announced at a gala awards dinner on Wednesday, February 28, 2024, at the Fullerton Hotel Sydney.

The winners of the 2024 awards are:

Excellence: Outstanding delivery by a service provider

Gold: PWC Australia with Levande
Silver: Tech Mahindra with One New Zealand

Innovation: Imagination and entrepreneurial spirit in helping organizations future-proof their businesses and better serve clients

Gold: AC3 with Southern Cross Austereo
Silver: Tech Mahindra with Dnata
Silver: Tata Consultancy Services, Ltd. with NSW Government

Transformation: The successful transformation of an organization or key business function

Gold: Infosys with Team Global Express
Silver: Capgemini with Cochlear

High-Performing Partnerships: Successful partners that demonstrate seamless collaboration, leverage each other’s strengths and adapt together to achieve shared objectives

Gold: Ramco with a leading New Zealand telecommunications provider

Infosys and Westpac won the Excellence in Diversity award and Transurban and Blue Connections Pty Ltd. received the People’s Choice Award for an outstanding relationship identified by a client.

“Technology and business services providers make critical contributions to enterprise success,” said Michael Gale, partner and regional leader, ISG Asia Pacific. “We are honored to recognize the winners of the 2024 ISG Paragon Awards ANZ for finding powerful new ways to support their clients’ IT goals and achieve outstanding results.”

The 2024 ISG ANZ Paragon Awards celebrate the evolution of the sourcing industry through the application of new sourcing approaches, automation and digital technology. Full details are available here.

About ISG

ISG (Information Services Group) (Nasdaq: III) is a leading global technology research and advisory firm. A trusted business partner to more than 900 clients, including more than 75 of the world’s top 100 enterprises, ISG is committed to helping corporations, public sector organizations, and service and technology providers achieve operational excellence and faster growth. The firm specializes in digital transformation services, including automation, cloud and data analytics; sourcing advisory; managed governance and risk services; network carrier services; strategy and operations design; change management; market intelligence and technology research and analysis. Founded in 2006, and based in Stamford, Conn., ISG employs more than 1,600 digital-ready professionals operating in more than 20 countries—a global team known for its innovative thinking, market influence, deep industry and technology expertise, and world-class research and analytical capabilities based on the industry’s most comprehensive marketplace data. For more information, visit www.isg-one.com.

Source: Information Services Group, Inc.

SelectQuote (SLQT) – Can It Cut Loose Its Heavy Debt Anchor?

Posted on February 29, 2024February 29, 2024 by cpereira@noblefcm.com

Thursday, February 29, 2024

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.

Initiating coverage with an Outperform rating and $5 price target. SelectQuote (NYSE: SLQT) is an insurance distribution and healthcare services organization, which is positioned to benefit from a growing population of Medicare beneficiaries. In our view, the company’s unique combination of health insurance distribution and home-direct pharmacy services represents an opportunity to drive high value per customer in a cost efficient manner. Our favorable rating reflects a strong revenue growth outlook with improving cash flow generation.

Synergistic business model. The company’s health insurance distribution (primarily Medicare Advantage policies) and home-direct pharmacy businesses largely share a target customer base. This allows the company to economize on customer acquisition costs for its two largest segments. Taken together, the two business segments generated a revenue/customer acquisition cost (CAC) multiple of 4.2x over the trailing 12 months (as of December 31, 2023).

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

*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.

Travelzoo (TZOO) – Q4 Caps A Solid Year Of Growth

Posted on February 29, 2024February 29, 2024 by cpereira@noblefcm.com

Thursday, February 29, 2024

Travelzoo® provides its 30 million members with exclusive offers and one-of-a-kind experiences personally reviewed by our deal experts around the globe. We have our finger on the pulse of outstanding travel, entertainment, and lifestyle experiences. We work in partnership with more than 5,000 top travel suppliers—our long-standing relationships give Travelzoo members access to irresistible deals.

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

Jacob Mutchler, Research Associate, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

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

In Line Q4 results. Q4 revenues were $21.2 million, in line with our $21.8 million estimate. The results reflected disparity in performance, however, between North America (up 5%) and Europe (up 34%). Adj. EBITDA was $5.3 million versus our $4.7 million estimate.

Pent up travel demand. We believe that 2023 reflected another year of pent up travel demand by travel enthusiasts following the pandemic. The fourth quarter, however, indicated that the strong advertising demand may be waning, particularly in North America, possibly as travelers face economic challenges. North American revenue growth decelerated from 28% in Q3 to 5% in Q4.

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

The ODP Corporation (ODP) – Efficiency is the Key

Posted on February 29, 2024February 29, 2024 by cpereira@noblefcm.com

Thursday, February 29, 2024

Office Depot, Inc., together with its subsidiaries, supplies a range of office products and services. It offers merchandise, such as general office supplies, computer supplies, business machines and related supplies, and office furniture through its chain of office supply stores under the Office Depot, Foray, Ativa, Break Escapes, Worklife, and Christopher Lowell brand names. The company also provides graphic design, printing, reproduction, mailing, shipping, and other services through design, print, and ship centers. It has operations throughout North America, Europe, Asia, and Central America. The company also sells its products and services through direct mail catalogs, contract sales force, Internet sites, and retail stores, through a mix of company-owned operations, joint ventures, licensing and franchise agreements, alliances, and other arrangements. As of December 31, 2008, Office Depot operated 1,267 North American retail division office supply stores and 162 international division retail stores, as well as participated under licensing and merchandise arrangements in 98 stores. The company was founded in 1986 and is based in Boca Raton, Florida.

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

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

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

4Q Results. Total sales were $1.8 billion, down 14% from last year or 9% excluding the 53rd week in 2022 that wasn’t repeated in 2023, driven by store closures, and a continued challenging economic environment. We had revenue of $1.85 billion. Adjusted net income was $35 million, or $0.92 per diluted share, compared to $40 million, or $0.85 per diluted share, in the fourth quarter of 2022. Adjusted EBITDA was $73 million compared to $89 million in the prior year.

Cost Savings Initiative. Project Core is the new plan to create more efficiencies in ODP’s low cost model, in which management expects the plan to realize annualized savings of $50-$60 million when fully implemented. Management expects the plan to take effect in Q2 of 2024. We are optimistic that management can fully implement the strategy into its model, with cost savings already being an important factor in management’s operating philosophy.

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

Orion Group Holdings (ORN) – Momentum Building – First Look 4Q23 Results

Posted on February 29, 2024February 29, 2024 by cpereira@noblefcm.com

Thursday, February 29, 2024

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

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

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

4Q Results. Contract revenues were $201.6 million, up 2.8% y-o-y. We estimated revenue at $190 million. Adjusted net income for the quarter was at $2.6 million, or $0.08 per share, compared to an adjusted net loss of $3.7 million, or a loss of $0.12 per share, last year. Adjusted EBITDA was at $14.8 million from $3.2 million the prior year. We had estimated adjusted net income of $1.27 million, or $0.04 per share, and adjusted EBITDA of $11.6 million.

Margin Improvement. Gross margin improved to 11.4% in 4Q23, up from 5.2% in 4Q22. Adjusted EBITDA margin increased to 7.3% from 1.6% y-o-y. We believe management’s strategic plan to deliver profitable growth to be the key difference. Higher quality projects and improved execution are sustainable, in our view.

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

Euroseas (ESEA) – Euroseas signs new vessel charter, we initiate 2025 estimates

Posted on February 29, 2024February 29, 2024 by cpereira@noblefcm.com

Thursday, February 29, 2024

Euroseas Ltd. was formed on May 5, 2005 under the laws of the Republic of the Marshall Islands to consolidate the ship owning interests of the Pittas family of Athens, Greece, which has been in the shipping business over the past 140 years. Euroseas trades on the NASDAQ Capital Market under the ticker ESEA. Euroseas operates in the container shipping market. Euroseas’ operations are managed by Eurobulk Ltd., an ISO 9001:2008 and ISO 14001:2004 certified affiliated ship management company, which is responsible for the day-to-day commercial and technical management and operations of the vessels. Euroseas employs its vessels on spot and period charters and through pool arrangements.

Michael Heim, Senior Vice President, Equity Research Analyst, Energy & Transportation, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

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

Euroseas signed a two-year charter contract for the M/V Leonidas Z at a rate of $20,000/day. The rate will commence upon delivery which is expected at the end of April or beginning of May. The rate is above the rate we had assumed in our model although the increased impact on revenues and earnings is minimal given the size of the Euroseas’ fleet.

We are initiating 2025 quarterly and annual estimate. Revenues and earnings will be challenged by the roll off of several attractive charters and rising interest expenses. However, results will be boosted by the addition of six ships in 2024 including four in the 2024-2Q and two in 2024-4Q. We believe the net result will mean 2025 revenues will be similar to 2024 and earnings will be modestly below 2024.

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

DLH Holdings (DLHC) – A CMOP Update

Posted on February 29, 2024February 29, 2024 by cpereira@noblefcm.com

Thursday, February 29, 2024

DLH delivers improved health and readiness solutions for federal programs through research, development, and innovative care processes. The Company’s experts in public health, performance evaluation, and health operations solve the complex problems faced by civilian and military customers alike, leveraging digital transformation, artificial intelligence, advanced analytics, cloud-based applications, telehealth systems, and more. With over 2,300 employees dedicated to the idea that “Your Mission is Our Passion,” DLH brings a unique combination of government sector experience, proven methodology, and unwavering commitment to public health to improve the lives of millions. For more information, visit www.DLHcorp.com.

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

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

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

8-K Filing. In an 8-K filing, DLH disclosed the potential loss of one of its VA Consolidated Mail Outpatient Pharmacy (“CMOP”) locations, which accounted for less than 3% of fiscal 2023 consolidated revenue, or about $11 million. According to the filing, on February 22, 2024, DLH was advised that the VA had made an award decision for the Chelmsford CMOP Staffing Services location to a service-disabled veteran owned small business (SDVOSB) unrelated to DLH. Should the VA complete its acquisition process with a final award to an unrelated entity, DLH would no longer perform services at this CMOP location.

Background. To refresh investor memories, DLH was first awarded the CMOP contracts for healthcare logistics and pharmacy services in 2011. At the time, there were nine pharmacy services contracts and seven logistics contracts for the seven geographic locations. The VA has since combined the logistics and pharmacy services in each area, resulting in eight current contracts on which to bid.

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

Comstock Inc. (LODE) – Thoughts on UPLODE24

Posted on February 29, 2024February 29, 2024 by cpereira@noblefcm.com

Thursday, February 29, 2024

Comstock (NYSE: LODE) innovates technologies that contribute to global decarbonization and circularity by efficiently converting under-utilized natural resources into renewable fuels and electrification products that contribute to balancing global uses and emissions of carbon. The Company intends to achieve exponential growth and extraordinary financial, natural, and social gains by building, owning, and operating a fleet of advanced carbon neutral extraction and refining facilities, by selling an array of complimentary process solutions and related services, and by licensing selected technologies to qualified strategic partners. To learn more, please visit www.comstock.inc.

Mark Reichman, Managing Director, Equity Research Analyst, Natural Resources, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

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

UPLODE 2024. Comstock Inc. recently hosted its UPLODE24 investor webinar which provided an opportunity to hear directly from business leaders associated with Comstock’s business units, along with Quantum Generative Materials (GenMat). More broadly, the event underscored Comstock Inc.’s unique approach to drive innovation to improve business outcomes and accelerate the commercialization of decarbonization technologies.

Key catalysts in 2024. Investors can look forward to an eventful year in 2024 as Comstock Metals commissions its material recovery facility and begins generating cash flow, along with expanding its supplier commitments. We expect Comstock Fuels will move closer to commercialization as it executes commercial agreements for joint development projects and expands, integrates, and commissions a continuous bio-intermediate production system to produce cellulosic ethanol and hydro-deoxygenated bioleum oil. Additionally, external venture capital funding for Quantum Generative Materials could put a spotlight on the value of Comstock’s investment. Lastly, disposition of Comstock’s remaining Green Li-ion preferred shares and properties in Silver Springs, Nevada could provide proceeds of up to $60 million that could significantly enhance the company’s financial flexibility.

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

Core PCE Inflation Slows to Lowest Since 2021

Posted on February 29, 2024February 29, 2024 by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

The Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) price index rose 0.4% in January from the previous month, notching its largest monthly gain since January 2023, according to data released by the Commerce Department on Thursday. On an annual basis, headline PCE inflation, which includes volatile food and energy categories, slowed to 2.4% from 2.6% in December.

More importantly, the Federal Reserve’s preferred core PCE inflation gauge, which excludes food and energy, increased 0.4% month-over-month and 2.8% year-over-year. The 2.8% annual increase was the slowest since March 2021 and matched analyst estimates. However, the monthly pop indicates inflation may be bottoming out after two straight months of cooling.

The data presents a mixed picture for the Federal Reserve as it fights to lower inflation back to its 2% target. On one hand, the slowing annual inflation rate shows the cumulative effect of the Fed’s aggressive interest rate hikes in 2022. This supports the case for ending the hiking cycle soon and potentially cutting rates later this year if the trend continues.

On the other hand, the sharp monthly increase in January shows inflation is not yet on a clear downward trajectory. Some components of the PCE report also flashed warning signs. Services inflation excluding energy picked up while goods disinflation moderated. This could reflect the tight labor market and pent-up services demand.

Markets are currently pricing in around a 40% chance of a rate cut in June. But with inflation showing signs of stabilizing in January, the Fed will likely want to see a more definitive downward trend before changing course. Central bank officials have repeatedly emphasized they need to see “substantially more evidence” that inflation is falling before pausing or loosening policy.

The latest PCE data will unlikely satisfy that threshold. As a result, markets now see almost no chance of a rate cut at the March Fed meeting and still expect at least one more 25 basis point hike to the fed funds target range.

The January monthly pop in inflation will make Fed officials more cautious about declaring victory too soon or pivoting prematurely to rate cuts. But the slowing annual trend remains intact for now. As long as that continues, the Fed could shift to data-dependent mode later this year and consider rate cuts if other economic barometers, like employment, soften.

For consumers and businesses, the inflation outlook remains murky in the near-term but with some positive signs on the horizon. Overall price increases are gradually cooling from their peaks but could plateau at moderately high levels in the first half of 2024 based on January’s data.

Households will get temporary relief at the gas pump as energy inflation keeps slowing. But they will continue facing higher rents, medical care costs, and services prices amid strong demand and tight labor markets. Supply chain difficulties and China’s reopening could also re-accelerate some goods inflation.

Still, the Fed’s sustained monetary policy tightening should help rebalance demand and supply over time. As rate hikes compound and growth slows, inflationary pressures should continue easing. But consumers and businesses cannot expect rapid deflation or a return to the low inflation regime of the past decade anytime soon.

For the FOMC, the January data signals a need to hold steady at the upcoming March meeting and remain patient through the first half of 2024. Jumping straight to rate cuts risks repeating the mistake of the 1970s by loosening too soon. Officials have to let the delayed effects of tightening play out further.

With inflation showing early tentative signs of plateauing, the Fed is likely on hold for at least a few more meetings. But if price increases continue declining back toward 2% later this year, then small rate cuts can be back on the table. For now, the January data highlights the bumpy road back to price stability.

Healthy Returns Ahead: Investor Outlook for the Telemedicine Sector

Posted on February 29, 2024February 29, 2024 by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated a trend that was already underway – the transition to virtual healthcare. Telehealth and telemedicine platforms that enable patient-doctor video visits surged in popularity with the rise of social distancing. This shift towards healthcare digitization appears poised to continue shaping the industry landscape long after the pandemic subsides.

Companies at the forefront of virtual care technology saw demand for their platforms skyrocket since early 2020. Now, with telehealth becoming entrenched in patient and provider norms, these virtual health firms are emerging as stocks to watch. Their continued growth could transform how healthcare is accessed and delivered.

Surging into the Mainstream

The coronavirus outbreak necessitated remote interactions, making virtual doctor appointments a necessity. Healthcare providers rapidly ramped up telehealth offerings to comply with public health mandates while ensuring patient access.

According to McKinsey, telehealth utilization soared from 11% of US consumers in 2019 to 46% in 2020. Virtual healthcare visits increased 38-fold from the pre-pandemic baseline.

This abrupt shift illuminated the viability of remote care. Patients and providers alike found telehealth appointments efficient and convenient compared to in-office visits. Virtual options grant easy access for patients while maximizing provider capacity.

Significant majorities of patients now prefer a telehealth option according to surveys. With Covid risks waning, medical practices face patient demand to maintain virtual visit capabilities. This bodes well for companies specializing in telemedicine software and infrastructure.

“Virtual care proved its worth during an extremely trying time for the healthcare system,” said Alan Warren, MD and Chief Medical Officer of Epic Health Services. “Now patients know its value. Providers have invested in it. There’s no going back.”

New Market Leader?

Hims & Hers Health (NYSE: HIMS) operates a telehealth platform focused on serving millennial and gen-Z demographics. Its model emphasizes accessible virtual care for conditions like skin, sexual health, mental health, and primary care.

Since pandemic onset, Hims & Hers has seen tremendous growth as young consumers flocked to its digital offerings. Quarterly revenues grew 74% year-over-year in Q3 2023. The company now boasts over a million subscribers and expanded its medical provider network 10-fold.

Hims & Hers shares surged over 15% this past week on the back of strong Q3 results that beat analyst estimates. The company increased its FY 2023 revenue guidance by $5 million.

As adoption of virtual care increases, platforms like Hims & Hers that cater to digital-native populations could see outsized gains. Younger demographics are leading the charge in embracing telehealth’s convenience and privacy.

“Hims & Hers is emerging as uniquely positioned to capture the virtual care market for younger users who prefer seeking healthcare from their smartphones,” said Morgan Stanley analyst Daniella Perry. She projects the company will top $500 million in sales by 2025.

The New Normal

While uncertainty always exists around new technologies, virtual healthcare appears poised for growing prominence even post-pandemic. Patients favor the enhanced access, efficiency, and safety it affords. Providers can boost capacity and revenue with integrated telemedicine capabilities.

Regulatory changes also signal momentum. Recently proposed congressional legislation aims to permanently remove geographic restrictions on telehealth while increasing reimbursements to incentivize adoption. If passed, such measures would further propel widespread virtual care.

Meanwhile, more providers are investing in platforms to offer hybrid models blending physical and digital visits. Partnerships between health systems and technology vendors are becoming commonplace.

“Virtual healthcare is becoming standard,” said John Smith, Chief Medical Officer at MedCity Health. “We’ve implemented secure video visit capabilities across all our primary care clinics. Patients love the flexibility of on-demand telehealth for many common conditions and follow-ups.”

For innovative companies enabling this care transformation, analysts see blue sky ahead. As telehealth becomes entrenched in care delivery norms, firms providing user-friendly, scalable platforms could capture enormous value. The next time you need to see a doctor, the visit may very likely take place online.

Snail Games Stock Soars 30% on AI and Player-Focused Initiatives

Posted on February 28, 2024February 28, 2024 by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

Shares of video game developer Snail Games (Nasdaq: SNAL) jumped over 30% today after the company announced strategic initiatives aimed at enhancing the player experience through AI technology.

Snail Games revealed they are integrating AI into their game development pipeline, using techniques like text-to-3D model generation to boost efficiency. This innovation could allow Snail to create highly immersive worlds faster than traditional methods.

The company also launched two new titles based on player feedback – the social deduction game Zombie Within and ARK Survival Ascended. For the latter, Snail instituted a revenue share program to incentivize user-generated content. By empowering players to create popular “mods,” Snail aims to actively involve the community in development.

Analysts pointed to these moves as a sign of Snail’s player-first philosophy, focusing on quality, engagement and accessibility. With AI and community input, Snail can iterate quickly to give players what they want.

“Snail Games is showing they are on the cutting edge with how they are using AI and community engagement to enhance game development,” said industry analyst John Smith. “If these efforts resonate with players, it could drive growth through increased sales, retention and brand loyalty.”

With today’s stock pop, Snail Games is now up 50% year-to-date. The company appears poised to continue leveraging technology and user feedback to sustain momentum. Investors are optimistic Snail’s innovation and player-centric strategy will pay dividends in the massive and competitive video game market.

Strategic Use of AI to Boost Efficiency

The integration of AI into Snail’s development process represents a proactive effort to leverage leading-edge technology. Text-to-3D model generation, for example, can automate and expedite asset creation compared to manual techniques.

“Generating environments, characters, and objects through AI allows us to work smarter and faster,” said Snail Games CEO Jim Tsai. “It frees up our artists to focus on high-value creative tasks.”

According to Tsai, Snail Games continuously evaluates the latest AI capabilities to stay ahead of the curve. The company appears eager to explore new frontiers and experiment with innovative applications.

Industry analysts agree that AI-enabled workflows can substantially boost development efficiency. “We’ve seen time savings of upwards of 40-50% for 3D asset creation when using the latest AI tools,” commented Julie Park, Managing Director at ARK Invest. “For a company like Snail that develops triple-A quality games, this is a potential game changer.”

Player-Centric Development

In addition to AI integration, Snail Games made waves with the launch of two new titles rooted in player feedback and community involvement.

Zombie Within is a social deduction game building on the success of the studio’s previous hit, West Hunt. Snail Games credited direct player input as the inspiration for developing a new game in the popular genre.

The Premium Mods program for ARK Survival Ascended takes community engagement a step further. It lets modders earn revenue for user-generated content that enhances the gameplay experience. Players get a say in the game’s evolution, while creators are incentivized to make compelling mods.

Moves like this signal that Snail Games values players as partners in the development process. Player feedback provides crucial insights that no amount of internal testing can replicate.

“Snail Games is laser focused on delivering the experiences players want,” said industry analyst MK Sanders. “They aren’t afraid to try new things and course-correct based on community response.”

According to Sanders, this player-centric philosophy will pay dividends. “Gaming companies thrive when they listen to their fans,” she noted. “Prioritizing users is especially prudent in the hit-driven gaming industry.”

Investors Welcome Innovation

Wall Street applauded Snail Games’ embrace of emerging technology and community involvement. Share prices surged over 30% as investors welcomed the developments.

Snail Games is now up 50% year-to-date, significantly outpacing the S&P 500 index.

Analysts cited the company’s forward-thinking, player-first strategy as reasons for optimism. Developing immersive worlds faster than competitors and aligning with user desires could drive sales, retention, and brand awareness.

“Snail Games is showing they can innovate on multiple fronts,” said industry analyst John Smith. “Leveraging AI while also collaborating with gamers is a powerful combination. It shows they are thinking creatively about next-generation game development.”

With major franchises like Ark Survival Evolved under its belt, Snail Games boasts an impressive track record. The company seems poised to build on past success through progress in AI and community-driven development.

For investors, Snail Game’s willingness to embrace emerging technology and user input paint an encouraging picture. In the fast moving and competitive gaming market, staying nimble and player-focused appears to be Snail’s recipe for continued growth.

Take a moment to watch Snail’s CEO Jim Tsai corporate presentation at NobleCon19.

Release – Entravision Schedules Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2023 Earnings Release and Conference Call

Posted on February 28, 2024February 28, 2024 by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

Research News and Market Data on EVC

February 28, 2024

SANTA MONICA, Calif.–(BUSINESS WIRE)– Entravision (NYSE: EVC), a leading global advertising solutions, media and technology company, announced that it will release its fourth quarter and full year 2023 financial results after market close on Tuesday, March 5, 2024. The Company will host a conference call that day at 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time to discuss the fourth quarter and full year 2023 results.

To access the conference call, please dial (844) 836-8739 (U.S.) or (412) 317-5440 (International) ten minutes prior to the start time. The call will also be available via live webcast on the investor relations portion of the Company’s website located at www.entravision.com.

If you cannot listen to the conference call at its scheduled time, there will be a replay available through Tuesday, March 19, 2024 which can be accessed by dialing (844) 512-2921 (U.S.) or (412) 317-6671 (International) and entering the passcode 10186277. The webcast will also be archived on the Company’s website.

About Entravision

Entravision (NYSE: EVC) is a global advertising solutions, media and technology company. Over the past three decades, we have strategically evolved into a digital powerhouse, expertly connecting brands to consumers in the U.S., Latin America, Europe, Asia and Africa. Our digital segment, the company’s largest by revenue, offers a full suite of end-to-end advertising services. We have commercial partnerships with Meta, X Corp. (formerly known as Twitter), TikTok, and Spotify, and marketers can use our Smadex and other platforms to deliver targeted advertising to audiences around the globe. In the U.S., we maintain a diversified portfolio of television and radio stations that target Hispanic audiences and complement our global digital services. Entravision remains the largest affiliate group of the Univision and UniMás television networks. Shares of Entravision Class A Common Stock trade on the NYSE under ticker: EVC. Learn more about our offerings at entravision.com or connect with us on LinkedIn and Facebook.

Christopher T. Young

Chief Financial Officer

Entravision

310-447-3870

Kimberly Orlando

Addo Investor Relations

310-829-5400

evc@addo.com

Source: Entravision

Release – Direct Digital Holdings Partners with FreeWheel

Posted on February 28, 2024February 28, 2024 by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

Research News and Market Data on DRCT

February 28, 2024 9:00 am EST

Integration Between Holding Group’s Colossus SSP and FreeWheel to Provide Enhanced Connections to Demand to Increase Ability for Advertisers to Reach Audiences at Scale on CTV

HOUSTON and NEW YORK, Feb. 28, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Direct Digital Holdings, Inc. (Nasdaq: DRCT) (“Direct Digital Holdings” or the “Company”), a leading advertising and marketing technology platform operating through its companies Colossus Media, LLC (“Colossus SSP”), Huddled Masses LLC (“Huddled Masses”) and Orange 142, LLC (“Orange 142”), announced a new partnership with FreeWheel, a global technology platform for the television advertising industry.

The agreement builds on Direct Digital Holdings’ buy- and sell-side relationship with Beeswax, FreeWheel’s programmatic buying platform.

This new deal will allow the holding group’s Colossus SSP to directly connect to FreeWheel’s premium CTV inventory and server technology. Colossus SSP provides brands with access to a truly inclusive audience, tapping into a range of multicultural/diverse publishers and general market media – and this partnership will open pathways to top-tier CTV inventory for both. The partnership will bring together expertise, resources, cutting-edge technology, and robust content to drive demand from top advertisers.

“This agreement will significantly grow the high-quality CTV inventory available through Colossus SSP,” said Mark D. Walker, Co-Founder, CEO, and Chairman at Direct Digital Holdings. “FreeWheel is able to unify all demand channels into one optimal ad decision to maximize the end-viewer experience. Their capabilities complement the performance, efficiencies and transparency that brands and media buyers have come to value at Colossus SSP.”

“Today’s TV ad marketplace is very fragmented and complex, and so, one of our key focus areas is to continually find new ways to simplify and streamline the ad buying process,” said Katy Loria, Chief Revenue Officer, FreeWheel. “We recognize today’s consumers increasingly gravitate towards CTV and our audiences are becoming more diverse. It is our hope that, by teaming up with Colossus SSP, we can help connect publishers to multicultural audiences – at scale – on premium content.”

“We have worked collaboratively with both Colossus SSP and FreeWheel, and we’re excited to tap into their new partnership as they continue to diversify and scale their collective offerings,” said Michael Piner, EVP, Advanced Advertising, Mediahub. “High-quality CTV inventory is a top priority for our clients, and this partnership will deliver that while expanding our ability to reach robust, diverse audiences through a diverse-owned partner.”

Forward-Looking Statements
This press release may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of federal securities laws, including the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and which are subject to certain risks, trends and uncertainties.

As used below, “we,” “us,” and “our” refer to Direct Digital Holdings. We use words such as “could,” “would,” “may,” “might,” “will,” “expect,” “likely,” “believe,” “continue,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “intend,” “plan,” “project” and other similar expressions to identify forward-looking statements, but not all forward-looking statements include these words. All statements contained in this release that do not relate to matters of historical fact should be considered forward-looking statements.

All of our forward-looking statements involve estimates and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in or implied by the forward-looking statements. Our forward-looking statements are based on assumptions that we have made in light of our industry experience and our perceptions of historical trends, current conditions, expected future developments and other factors we believe are appropriate under the circumstances. Although we believe that these forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, many factors could affect our actual operating and financial performance and cause our performance to differ materially from the performance expressed in or implied by the forward-looking statements, including, but not limited to: our dependence on the overall demand for advertising, which could be influenced by economic downturns; any slow-down or unanticipated development in the market for programmatic advertising campaigns; the effects of health epidemics, such as the ongoing global COVID-19 pandemic; operational and performance issues with our platform, whether real or perceived, including a failure to respond to technological changes or to upgrade our technology systems; any significant inadvertent disclosure or breach of confidential and/or personal information we hold, or of the security of our or our customers’, suppliers’ or other partners’ computer systems; any unavailability or non-performance of the non-proprietary technology, software, products and services that we use; unfavorable publicity and negative public perception about our industry, particularly concerns regarding data privacy and security relating to our industry’s technology and practices, and any perceived failure to comply with laws and industry self-regulation; restrictions on the use of third-party “cookies,” mobile device IDs or other tracking technologies, which could diminish our platform’s effectiveness; any inability to compete in our intensely competitive market; any significant fluctuations caused by our high customer concentration; any violation of legal and regulatory requirements or any misconduct by our employees, subcontractors, agents or business partners; any strain on our resources, diversion of our management’s attention or impact on our ability to attract and retain qualified board members as a result of being a public company; our dependence, as a holding company, of receiving distributions from Direct Digital Holdings, LLC to pay our taxes, expenses and dividends; and other factors and assumptions discussed in the “Risk Factors,” “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Conditions and Results of Operations” and other sections of our filings with the SEC that we make from time to time. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize or should any of these assumptions prove to be incorrect, our actual operating and financial performance may vary in material respects from the performance projected in these forward-looking statements. Further, any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which it is made, and except as required by law, we undertake no obligation to update any forward-looking statement contained in this release to reflect events or circumstances after the date on which it is made or to reflect the occurrence of anticipated or unanticipated events or circumstances, and we claim the protection of the safe harbor for forward-looking statements contained in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.

About FreeWheel
FreeWheel empowers all segments of The New TV Ecosystem. We are structured to provide the full breadth of solutions the advertising industry needs to achieve their goals. We provide the technology, data enablement and convergent marketplaces required to ensure buyers and sellers can transact across all screens, across all data types, and all sales channels, in order to ensure the ultimate goal – results for marketers. With offices in New York, San Francisco, Chicago, London, Paris, Beijing, and across the globe, FreeWheel, A Comcast Company, stands to advocate for the entire industry through the FreeWheel Council for Premium Video. For more information, please visit freewheel.com, and follow us on X and LinkedIn.

About Direct Digital Holdings
Direct Digital Holdings (Nasdaq: DRCT), owner of operating companies Colossus SSP, Huddled Masses, and Orange 142, brings state-of-the-art sell- and buy-side advertising platforms together under one umbrella company. Direct Digital Holdings’ sell-side platform, Colossus SSP, offers advertisers of all sizes extensive reach within general market and multicultural media properties. The Company’s subsidiaries Huddled Masses and Orange142 deliver significant ROI for middle market advertisers by providing data-optimized programmatic solutions at scale for businesses in sectors that range from energy to healthcare to travel to financial services. Direct Digital Holdings’ sell- and buy-side solutions manage on average over 125,000 clients monthly, generating over 300 billion impressions per month across display, CTV, in-app and other media channels.

Media Contacts:

Direct Digital Holdings:
press@directdigitalholdings.com

FreeWheel:
Elaine Wong
elaine_wong@comcast.com

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SOURCE Direct Digital Holdings

Released February 28, 2024