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Release – InPlay Oil Corp. Announces First Quarter 2025 Financial and Operating Results and Updated 2025 Capital Budget Post Closing of the Highly Accretive Pembina Asset Acquisition

Posted on May 8, 2025May 8, 2025 by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

May 08, 2025, 07:30 ET

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CALGARY, AB, May 8, 2025 /CNW/ – InPlay Oil Corp. (TSX: IPO) (OTCQX: IPOOF) (“InPlay” or the “Company“) announces its financial and operating results for the three months ended March 31, 2025 and an updated 2025 capital budget following the successful completion of the strategic acquisition of Cardium light oil focused assets (the “Acquired Assets“) in the Pembina area of Alberta (the “Acquisition“) from Obsidian Energy Ltd. And certain of its affiliates (collectively “Obsidian“). InPlay’s condensed unaudited interim financial statements and notes, as well as Management’s Discussion and Analysis (“MD&A”) for the three months ended March 31, 2025 will be available at “www.sedarplus.ca” and on our website at “www.inplayoil.com“. All figures presented herein reflect the Company’s six (6) to one (1) share consolidation, which was effective April 14, 2025. An updated corporate presentation will be available on our website shortly.

First Quarter 2025 Highlights

Achieved average quarterly production of 9,076 boe/d⁽¹⁾ (55% light crude oil and NGLs), a 5% increase over Q1 2024 and ahead of internal forecasts.
Generated strong quarterly Adjusted Funds Flow (“AFF”)⁽²⁾ of $16.8 million ($1.10 per basic share⁽³⁾).
Returned $4.1 million to shareholders by way of monthly dividends, equating to a 16% yield relative to the current share price. Since November 2022 InPlay has distributed $44 million in dividends including dividends declared to date.
Maintained a strong operating income profit margin⁽³⁾ of 54%.
Improved field operating netbacks⁽³⁾ to $25.71/boe, an increase of 3% compared to Q4 2024.

First quarter results exceeded expectations, driven in part by the outperformance of newly drilled wells at Pembina Cardium Unit #7 (PCU#7). A two well pad delivered average initial production (“IP”) rates of 677 boe/d (75% light oil and NGLs) over the first 30 days and 492 boe/d (66% light oil and NGLs) over the first 60 days, both significantly above expectations. Over the initial two-month period, production from these wells was more than 100% above our type curve. These wells ranked in the top-ten for production rates for all Cardium wells in the basin for the month of March.

Complementing InPlay’s strong operational momentum, Obsidian drilled four (4.0 net) wells on the Acquired Assets in the first quarter. The first two (2.0 net) wells, which started production mid quarter, are outperforming our internal type curve by approximately 50% with average IP rates of 304 boe/d (91% light oil and NGLs) over the first 30 days and 295 boe/d (85% light oil and NGLs) over the first 60 days. The remaining two wells, brought online in the final days of the first quarter, are performing more than 350% above our internal type curve, with average IP rates per well of 887 boe/d (88% light oil and NGLs) over their initial 30 day period.

The Company is very excited about the highly accretive Pembina Acquisition announced February 19, 2025 and had anticipated strong results from the combined assets. The exceptional results from the first quarter drilling program, combined with the outperformance of base production, have driven current field estimated production to approximately 21,500 boe/d (64% light oil and NGLs) significantly exceeding what we had initially forecasted at the announcement of the Acquisition. Given the current volatility in commodity prices, this material outperformance provides the Company with significant flexibility to scale back our capital program, providing “more for less” while maintaining our production forecasts, allowing for more aggressive debt repayment even in a lower pricing environment.

2025 Capital Budget and Associated Guidance

Following the closing of the highly accretive Acquisition on April 7, 2025, InPlay is pleased to provide initial pro forma guidance inclusive of the Acquired Assets. This guidance reflects the exceptional operational performance across the Company’s expanded asset base, while taking into account the current volatile commodity price environment. It also underscores InPlay’s continued commitment to maximizing free cash flow to support ongoing debt reduction, while positioning the Company to support its return to shareholder strategy.

InPlay’s Board has approved an updated capital program of $53 – $60 million for 2025. InPlay plans to drill approximately 5.5 – 7.5 net Extended Reach Horizontal (“ERH”) Cardium wells over the remainder of the year. A significant portion of the remaining 2025 capital budget is expected to be directed toward the Acquired Assets, which (as outlined above) continue to materially outperform internally modelled type curves. Cost efficiencies realized through InPlay’s recent drilling program, combined with the application of InPlay’s drilling and completion techniques to the Acquired Assets, are expected to further enhance well economics. Capital will also be spent tying in certain InPlay assets into the newly acquired facilities, eliminating significant trucking costs, and marks the first step in our synergy cost savings strategy. Due to the outperformance of production across our asset base, InPlay has reduced total capital spending for the remainder of 2025 by approximately 30% (relative to initial expectations) without reducing production estimates.

Key highlights of the updated 2025 capital program include:

Production per Share Growth:
- Forecasted average annual production of 16,000 – 16,800 boe/d⁽¹⁾ (60% – 62% light oil and NGLs), a 15% increase (based on mid-point) in production per weighted average share compared to 2024 despite 30% less capital spending than initially expected, driven by:
  - Lower corporate base decline rate of 24% due to the favorable decline profile of the Acquired Assets;
  - Improved corporate netbacks driven by the higher oil and liquids weighting of the Acquired Assets; and
  - Enhanced capital efficiencies from high graded drilling inventory of the pro forma assets.
FAFF Generation and Dividend Sustainability:
- AFF⁽²⁾ per weighted average share⁽⁴⁾ of $5.00 – $5.35, a 13% increase (based on mid-point) compared to 2024.
- Free adjusted funds flow (“FAFF”)⁽³⁾of $68 – $76 million equating to a 35% – 40% FAFF Yield⁽³⁾, a 10x increase (based on mid-point) in FAFF per share compared to 2024 despite a 17% year over year reduction in forecasted WTI price.
Top Tier Returns:
- Total return of 50% – 55% after combining FAFF Yield and production per share growth⁽⁴⁾, which is expected to be at the high end of our peer group.
Debt Reduction:
- Excess FAFF⁽³⁾ is planned to be used to reduce debt.
- Projected year-end Net Debt⁽²⁾ of $213 – $221 million equating to a $31 – $39 million reduction from closing of the Acquisition.
- Year-end Net Debt to Q4 2025 annualized EBITDA⁽³⁾ ratio of 1.1x – 1.3x.

InPlay continues to monitor global trade and commodity dynamics, including United States tariffs on Canada. Capital spending will be weighted towards the back end of the year with drilling expected to resume again in August, providing ample time to finalize capital spending allocation depending on commodity pricing and continued asset performance. As a result of minimal capital spending in the second quarter, InPlay anticipates generating significant FAFF which will be directed to reducing debt. InPlay will remain flexible and will make decisions based on our core strategy of disciplined capital allocation, maintaining financial strength to ensure the long term sustainability of our strategy and return to shareholder program.

Updated 2025 Guidance Summary:

Following closing of the Acquisition, a significant hedging program was undertaken to help provide downside commodity price protection. As further detailed in the hedging summary section in this press release, InPlay has hedged approximately 75% of its net after royalty oil production and 67% of its net after royalty production on a BOE basis for the remainder of 2025. InPlay’s strong hedge book provides insulation to the current commodity price volatility which is highlighted in the sensitivity table below.

With low decline high netback assets, a flexible budget, a resilient balance sheet, and becoming a larger company, InPlay remains well positioned to sustainably navigate future commodity price cycles. Adhering to this disciplined strategy has allowed the Company to navigate previous commodity price cycles including the COVID-19 pandemic price environment.

Financial and Operating Results:

First Quarter 2025 Financial & Operations Overview:

The year has begun with strong momentum as production for the quarter exceeded internal forecasts, largely due to the outperformance of new ERH wells in PCU#7. Three (3.0 net) ERH wells were brought online at the end of February as part of a $13.9 million capital program, inclusive of $1.4 million invested in well optimization initiatives which continues to lower corporate declines. Production averaged 9,076 boe/d⁽¹⁾ (55% light crude oil and NGLs) in the quarter, a 5% increase from 8,605 boe/d⁽¹⁾ in the first quarter of 2024.

Notably, a two well pad drilled in PCU#7 exceeded expectations, delivering average IP rates of 677 boe/d (75% light oil and NGLs) and 492 boe/d (66% light oil and NGLs) per well over their first 30 and 60 days, respectively, which is over 100% above our internally modeled type curve for these wells.

Obsidian drilled four (4.0 net) wells on the Acquired Assets in the first quarter. The first two (2.0 net) wells, which came on production mid quarter, are outperforming the internal type curve with IP rates averaging 304 boe/d (91% light oil and NGLs) and 295 boe/d (85% light oil and NGLs) over the first 30 and 60 days, respectively (approximately 50% above our internally modelled type curve). The last two wells were brought online in the final days of the quarter and are performing significantly above internal forecasts with IP rates averaging 887 boe/d (88% light oil and NGLs) per well over their first 30 days (more than 350% above our type curve).

AFF for the quarter was $16.8 million. In addition, the Company returned $4.1 million ($0.09 per share) in base dividends to shareholders which equates to a yield of 16% based on the current share price. Net debt at quarter-end totaled $63 million, with a net debt to EBITDA ratio⁽³⁾ of 0.8x, reflecting a healthy financial position.

On behalf of the entire InPlay team and the Board of Directors, we thank our shareholders for their continued support as we advance our strategy of disciplined growth, returns, and long-term value creation. We are excited to report our progress with respect to the strategic Acquisition.

For further information please contact:

Doug Bartole
President and Chief Executive Officer
InPlay Oil Corp.
Telephone: (587) 955-0632

Darren Dittmer
Chief Financial Officer
InPlay Oil Corp.
Telephone: (587) 955-0634ipoof4

View full release here.

SOURCE InPlay Oil Corp.

Release – Cadrenal Therapeutics Reports First-Quarter 2025 Financial Results and Provides Corporate Update

Posted on May 8, 2025May 8, 2025 by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

Research News and Market Data on CVKD

Leadership appointment strengthens strategic and development capabilities

FDA Type D Meeting provides additional guidance for advancing the clinical development of tecarfarin

Collaboration Agreement with Abbott (NYSE: ABT) validates the need for new anticoagulation options

PONTE VEDRA, Fla. – Cadrenal Therapeutics, Inc. (Nasdaq: CVKD), a biopharmaceutical company developing therapeutics for patients with cardiovascular disease, today reported its financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2025, and provided an update on the strategic focus of the company and clinical development of tecarfarin.

“In the first quarter of 2025, Cadrenal continued to build on the momentum we achieved during 2024,” said Quang X. Pham, Chairman & CEO. “The appointment of James Ferguson, M.D., FACC, FAHA, as our Chief Medical Officer positions us for success in reviewing potential assets to add to our portfolio and designing and executing our clinical program for tecarfarin. The finalized Collaboration Agreement with Abbott validates the critical need in the market for a new anticoagulant for patients with left ventricular assist devices (LVADs). And our meeting with the FDA provided additional guidance in the design of a pivotal trial.”

Highlights from the Quarter Ended March 31, 2025, and Other Recent Events:

Leadership Advances

In February 2025, Cadrenal appointed James J. Ferguson, M.D., FACC, FAHA, as Chief Medical Officer to lead the review of business development opportunities to expand the Company’s pipeline and drive the late-stage clinical development of tecarfarin for conditions requiring chronic anticoagulation therapy.

Regulatory Update

In February 2025, Cadrenal met with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for a Type D meeting. The FDA provided additional guidance on the appropriate design for a Phase 3 tecarfarin trial and welcomed submission of a final study design for review.

Collaboration Agreement with Abbott

In March 2025, we announced a Collaboration Agreement with Abbott (NYSE: ABT) to support our pivotal TECarfarin Anticoagulation and Hemocompatibility with Left Ventricular Assist Devices (TECH-LVAD) trial. Under the agreement, Abbott will share insights from recent HeartMate 3™ clinical trials and will support Cadrenal with trial design, site identification, trial awareness, and HeartMate 3™ expertise.

Operational Milestones

During the quarter, Cadrenal successfully completed the technical transfer and manufacturing of its tecarfarin drug substance (API) from a CDMO site located in Asia to a CDMO site in the United States. This initiative was done to support the company’s clinical and regulatory development strategy for tecarfarin and to improve supply chain security.

Cadrenal also conducted strategic market opportunity research for multiple indications, including patients with left ventricular assist devices. This research indicates that tecarfarin is uniquely positioned to provide clinical value to patients in the rapidly growing LVAD market, which is projected to nearly double by 2032. This research also showed that tecarfarin has the potential to provide clinical benefit in additional high-need cardiovascular, renal, and mechanical heart valve indications, reinforcing tecarfarin’s potential value proposition for patients.

Participation in Key Investor, Medical, and Business Development Conferences

Cadrenal was active during the first quarter in several significant conferences to build corporate visibility and underscore its commitment to advancing innovation in anticoagulation therapy. Investor interactions included participation at the 43^rd Annual J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference in San Francisco, a Company presentation at the BIO CEO and Investor Conference in New York, and, after the close of the quarter, a Company presentation at the Centri Capital Conference at Nasdaq headquarters in New York. Shortly after the quarter’s close, Cadrenal participated in the 18^th National Conference on Anticoagulation Therapy in Washington, D.C.

Strategic Development Collaborations

Cadrenal continues to explore opportunities to add to the Company’s clinical pipeline and collaborate with potential development partners to advance the development of tecarfarin for patients with LVADs and for other indications requiring chronic anticoagulation.

First Quarter 2025 Financial Highlights

Research and development expenses for the quarter ended March 31, 2025, were $1.7 million compared to $0.6 million for the same period in 2024. General and administrative expenses for the quarter ended March 31, 2025, were $2.3 million compared to $1.1 million for the same period in 2024. Cadrenal reported a net loss of $3.8 million for the quarter ending March 31, 2025, compared to $1.7 million for the same period in 2024.

On March 31, 2025, Cadrenal had cash and cash equivalents of $7.3 million, compared to $10.0 million as of December 31, 2024. The Company had approximately 1.9 million shares of common stock outstanding as of March 31, 2025.

About Cadrenal Therapeutics, Inc.

Cadrenal Therapeutics, Inc. is a biopharmaceutical company developing therapeutics for patients with cardiovascular disease. Cadrenal’s lead investigational product is tecarfarin, a novel oral vitamin K antagonist anticoagulant that addresses unmet needs in anticoagulation therapy. Tecarfarin is a reversible anticoagulant (blood thinner) designed to prevent heart attacks, strokes, and deaths due to blood clots in patients requiring chronic anticoagulation. Although warfarin is widely used off-label for a number of indications, extensive clinical and real-world data have shown it can have significant, serious side effects. With tecarfarin, Cadrenal is advancing an innovative solution to address the unmet needs in anticoagulation therapy, aiming to reduce the clinical complexities of warfarin and capture value in a market with high demand for safer, more manageable treatment options.

Cadrenal is pursuing a pipeline-in-a-product approach with tecarfarin. Tecarfarin received Orphan Drug designation (ODD) for advanced heart failure patients with implanted mechanical circulatory support devices, including Left Ventricular Assisted Devices (LVADs). The Company also received ODD and fast-track status for tecarfarin in end-stage kidney disease and atrial fibrillation (ESKD+AFib).

Cadrenal is opportunistically pursuing business development initiatives with a longer-term focus on creating a pipeline of cardiovascular therapeutics. For more information, visit https://www.cadrenal.com/ and connect with us on LinkedIn.

Safe Harbor

Any statements in this press release about future expectations, plans, and prospects, as well as any other statements regarding matters that are not historical facts, may constitute “forward-looking statements.” The words “anticipate,” “believe,” “continue,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “may,” “plan,” “potentially,” “predict,” “project,” “should,” “target,” “will,” “would” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain these identifying words. These statements include statements regarding the appointment of James Ferguson, M.D., FACC, FAHA, as the Company’s Chief Medical Officer positioning the Company for success in reviewing potential assets to add to its portfolio and designing and executing its clinical program for tecarfarin; the finalized Collaboration Agreement with Abbott validating the critical need in the market for a new anticoagulant for patients with left ventricular assist devices (LVADs); Abbott sharing insights from recent HeartMate 3™ clinical trials and supporting Cadrenal with trial design, site identification, trial awareness, and HeartMate 3™ expertise; the LVAD market projected to nearly double by 2032; and tecarfarin having the potential to provide clinical benefit in additional high-need cardiovascular, renal, and mechanical heart valve indications, reinforcing tecarfarin’s potential value proposition for patients. Actual results may differ materially from those indicated by such forward-looking statements as a result of various important factors, including the ability to utilize Abbott’s expertise to advance tecarfarin, the ability to successfully collaborate with Abbott, the initiation of the pivotal clinical trial for tecarfarin in LVAD patients by Cadrenal; for tecarfarin to provide clinical benefit in additional high-need cardiovascular, renal, and mechanical heart valve indications, reinforcing tecarfarin’s potential value proposition for patients; the ability of Cadrenal to build a pipeline of specialized cardiovascular therapeutics and other assets and the other risk factors described in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024, and the Company’s subsequent filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including subsequent periodic reports on Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and Current Reports on Form 8-K. Any forward-looking statements contained in this press release speak only as of the date hereof and, except as required by federal securities laws, the Company specifically disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.

View full release here.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250507038192/en/

Corporate and Investor Relations

Paul Sagan

LaVoieHealthScience

(617) 865-0041

psagan@lavoiehealthscience.com

Media

Andrew Korda

LaVoieHealthScience

(617) 865-0043

akorda@lavoiehealthscience.com

Release – Lucky Strike Entertainment Reports Third Quarter Results for Fiscal Year 2025

Posted on May 8, 2025May 8, 2025 by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

News Research and Market Data on LUCK

05/08/2025

RICHMOND, Va.–(BUSINESS WIRE)– Lucky Strike Entertainment (NYSE: LUCK), one of the world’s premier operators of location-based entertainment, today provided financial results for the third quarter of the 2025 Fiscal Year, which ended on March 30, 2025.

Quarter Highlights:

Total revenue increased 0.7% to $339.9 million from $337.7 million in the previous year
Same Store Revenue decreased 5.6% versus the prior year
Net income of $13.3 million versus prior year net income of $23.8 million
Adjusted EBITDA of $117.3 million versus $122.8 million in the prior year
From December 30, 2024 through May 8, 2025, we acquired one family entertainment center and one water park. Total locations in operation as of May 8, 2025 is 367
Continued progress on Lucky Strike rebrand initiative with 34 current Lucky Strike locations

“In the quarter, our Retail and Leagues businesses remained stable, Food sales grew by high single digits, while our Corporate Events business declined as we navigate a period of corporate austerity. The softness in Corporate Events was most pronounced in tech-aligned markets, with California and Seattle accounting for the majority of the underperformance. We have seen encouraging signs of strength, with the Boston, New Jersey and Miami markets recently posting positive comps.,” said Founder, Chairman, and CEO Thomas Shannon.

“As we head into summer, we are energized by the momentum of our Summer Season Pass program, which will drive increased traffic to our locations. Sales of the pass are already over 200% higher than this time last year, reflecting the consumers’ desire for high-value entertainment in their local markets. We’re also entering the season with three water parks, including our recent acquisition of Shipwreck Island in Panama City Beach, Florida. Together with the contributions from the seven family entertainment centers we acquired this year, we expect to benefit from greater scale during the typically slower summer months.”

“In light of ongoing macroeconomic uncertainty, we are maintaining a disciplined approach to expense management and continuing to prioritize only high-return capital investments. Capital expenditures are down 20% year-to-date, and we anticipate this trend will continue into next year,” said Bobby Lavan, Chief Financial Officer.

Share Repurchase and Capital Return Program Update

From December 30, 2024 through May 5, 2025, the Company repurchased 4.5 million shares of Class A common stock for approximately $47 million. The Company has $92 million currently remaining under the share repurchase program.

The Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.055 per share of common stock for the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2025. The dividend will be payable on June 6, 2025, to stockholders of record on May 23, 2025.

Guidance

Due to increasing economic uncertainty, the Company will not be issuing guidance at this time. We intend to reassess our approach to forward-looking guidance later in the year.

“Although the outlook remains uncertain, we are confident in the Company’s resiliency and our ability to drive revenue growth through strategic initiatives, targeted capital investments, and selective acquisitions,” said Bobby Lavan.

Investor Webcast Information

Listeners may access an investor webcast hosted by Lucky Strike Entertainment. The webcast and results presentation will be accessible at 9:00 AM ET on May 8, 2025 in the Events & Presentations section of the Lucky Strike Entertainment Investor Relations website at https://ir.luckystrikeent.com/overview/default.aspx

About Lucky Strike Entertainment

Lucky Strike Entertainment is one of the world’s premier location-based entertainment platforms. With over 360 locations across North America, Lucky Strike Entertainment provides experiential offerings in bowling, amusements, water parks, and family entertainment centers. The Company also owns the Professional Bowlers Association, the major league of bowling and a growing media property that boasts millions of fans around the globe. For more information on Lucky Strike Entertainment, please visit IR.LuckyStrikeEnt.com.

Forward Looking Statements

Some of the statements contained in this press release are 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, that involve risk, assumptions and uncertainties, such as statements of our plans, objectives, expectations, intentions and forecasts. These forward-looking statements are generally identified by the use of forward-looking terminology, including the terms “anticipate,” “believe,” “confident,” “continue,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “likely,” “may,” “plan,” “possible,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “should,” “target,” “will,” “would” and, in each case, their negative or other various or comparable terminology. These forward-looking statements reflect our views with respect to future events as of the date of this release and are based on our management’s current expectations, estimates, forecasts, projections, assumptions, beliefs and information. Although management believes that the expectations reflected in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that these expectations will prove to have been correct. All such forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties, many of which are outside of our control, and could cause future events or results to be materially different from those stated or implied in this document. It is not possible to predict or identify all such risks. These risks include, but are not limited to: our ability to design and execute our business strategy; changes in consumer preferences and buying patterns; our ability to compete in our markets; the occurrence of unfavorable publicity; risks associated with long-term non-cancellable leases for our locations; our ability to retain key managers; risks associated with our substantial indebtedness and limitations on future sources of liquidity; our ability to carry out our expansion plans; our ability to successfully defend litigation brought against us; our ability to adequately obtain, maintain, protect and enforce our intellectual property and proprietary rights and claims of intellectual property and proprietary right infringement, misappropriation or other violation by competitors and third parties; failure to hire and retain qualified employees and personnel; the cost and availability of commodities and other products we need to operate our business; cybersecurity breaches, cyber-attacks and other interruptions to our and our third-party service providers’ technological and physical infrastructures; catastrophic events, including war, terrorism and other conflicts; public health emergencies and pandemics, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, or natural catastrophes and accidents; changes in the regulatory atmosphere and related private sector initiatives; fluctuations in our operating results; economic conditions, including the impact of increasing interest rates, inflation and recession; and other factors described under the section titled “Risk Factors” in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) by the Company on September 5, 2024, as well as other filings that the Company will make, or has made, with the SEC, such as Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and Current Reports on Form 8-K. These factors should not be construed as exhaustive and should be read in conjunction with the other cautionary statements that are included in this press release and in other filings. We expressly disclaim any obligation to publicly update or review any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as required by applicable law.

Non-GAAP Financial Measures

To provide investors with information in addition to our results as determined under Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (“GAAP”), we disclose Revenue Excluding Service Fee Revenue, Total Location Revenue, Same Store Revenue and Adjusted EBITDA as “non-GAAP measures”, which management believes provide useful information to investors because each measure assists both investors and management in analyzing and benchmarking the performance and value of our business. Accordingly, management believes that these measurements are useful for comparing general operating performance from period to period, and management relies on these measures for planning and forecasting of future periods. Additionally, these measures allow management to compare our results with those of other companies that have different financing and capital structures. These measures are not financial measures calculated in accordance with GAAP and should not be considered as a substitute for revenue, net income, or any other operating performance or liquidity measure calculated in accordance with GAAP, and may not be comparable to a similarly titled measure reported by other companies. Our fiscal year 2025 guidance measures (other than revenue) are provided on a non-GAAP basis without a reconciliation to the most directly comparable GAAP measure because the Company is unable to predict with a reasonable degree of certainty certain items contained in the GAAP measures without unreasonable efforts. For the same reasons, the Company is unable to address the probable significance of the unavailable information. Such items include, but are not limited to, acquisition related expenses, share-based compensation and other items not reflective of the Company’s ongoing operations.

Revenue Excluding Service Fee Revenue represents total Revenue less Service Fee Revenue. Total Location Revenue represents total Revenue less Non-Location Related Revenue, Revenue from Closed Locations, and Service Fee Revenue, if applicable. Same Store Revenue represents total Revenue less Non-Location Related Revenue, Revenue from Closed Locations, Service Fee Revenue, if applicable, and Acquired Revenue. Adjusted EBITDA represents Net Income (Loss) before Interest Expense, Income Taxes, Depreciation and Amortization, Impairment and Other Charges, Share-based Compensation, EBITDA from Closed Locations, Foreign Currency Exchange Loss (Gain), Asset Disposition Loss (Gain), Transactional and other advisory costs, changes in the value of earnouts, and other.

The Company considers Revenue Excluding Service Fee Revenue as an important financial measure because it provides a financial measure of revenue directly associated with consumer discretionary spending and Total Location Revenue as an important financial measure because it provides a financial measure of revenue directly associated with location operations. The Company also considers Same Store Revenue as an important financial measure because it provides comparable revenue for locations open for the entire duration of both the current and comparable measurement periods.

The Company considers Adjusted EBITDA as an important financial measure because it provides a financial measure of the quality of the Company’s earnings. Other companies may calculate Adjusted EBITDA differently than we do, which might limit its usefulness as a comparative measure. Adjusted EBITDA is used by management in addition to and in conjunction with the results presented in accordance with GAAP. We have presented Adjusted EBITDA solely as a supplemental disclosure because we believe it allows for a more complete analysis of results of operations and assists investors and analysts in comparing our operating performance across reporting periods on a consistent basis by excluding items that we do not believe are indicative of our core operating performance. Adjusted EBITDA has limitations as an analytical tool, and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for analysis of our results as reported under GAAP. Some of these limitations are that Adjusted EBITDA:

do not reflect every expenditure, future requirements for capital expenditures or contractual commitments;
do not reflect changes in our working capital needs;
do not reflect the interest expense, or the amounts necessary to service interest or principal payments, on our outstanding debt;
do not reflect income tax (benefit) expense, and because the payment of taxes is part of our operations, tax expense is a necessary element of our costs and ability to operate;
do not reflect non-cash equity compensation, which will remain a key element of our overall equity based compensation package; and
do not reflect the impact of earnings or charges resulting from matters we consider not to be indicative of our ongoing operations.

View full release here.

Lucky Strike Entertainment Corporation Investor Relations
IR@LSEnt.com

Source: Lucky Strike Entertainment Corporation

Nicola Mining Inc. (NIM:CA) – Multiple Avenues for Value Creation Supported by Operational Cash Flow

Posted on May 8, 2025May 8, 2025 by cpereira@noblefcm.com

Thursday, May 08, 2025

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.

Initiating coverage with an Outperform rating. Nicola Mining is a unique junior exploration company because it offers discovery potential through its ownership of its flagship New Craigmont Copper Project, ownership of the Treasure Mountain high-grade silver-lead-zinc mine, a 75% economic interest in the Dominion Creek gold project, along with 100% ownership of the only mill permitted to receive and process material from throughout British Columbia. The company’s Merritt Mill, along with a sand/gravel pit and rock quarry, generates cash flow to support Nicola’s operations and exploration programs, which minimizes the need for dilutive equity issuance.

New Craigmont Copper Project. New Craigmont is in the Quesnel Trough, one of Canada’s most prolific copper belts, and is surrounded by past and present producing copper mines and is adjacent to Teck Resources’ Highland Valley Copper Mine, the largest copper mine in Canada. New Craigmont derives its name from the historic Craigmont open pit and underground mine that operated on the property from 1961 to 1982. The Craigmont mine produced over 36.75 million tons of ore with an average grade of 1.28% copper, yielding 900 million pounds of copper. The mine ceased operations in 1982 due to low copper prices.

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*Analyst certification and important disclosures included in the full report. NOTE: investment decisions should not be based upon the content of this research summary. Proper due diligence is required before making any investment decision.

Conduent (CNDT) – Posts Solid Q1 Results

Posted on May 8, 2025May 8, 2025 by cpereira@noblefcm.com

Thursday, May 08, 2025

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.

Solid results. The company reported Q1 revenue of $751 million, slightly below our estimate of $767 million, illustrated in Figure #1 CNDT Q1 Results. Quarterly adj. EBITDA of $37 million was significantly higher than our estimate of $14 million, driven by better-than-expected operating cost reductions as the company works to remove stranded costs from its 2024 divestitures.

New business signings. During Q1, new business annual contract values (ACV) increased to $109 million, up 13.5% from $96 million in the prior year period. The total contract value (TCV) of the Q1 new business wins was $280 million, up an impressive 95.8%, year-over-year, indicating that management’s plan to return the organization to organic revenue growth is off to a good start, following a year that was more squarely focused on divestitures and debt reduction.

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CoreCivic, Inc. (CXW) – Exceeds 1Q25 Expectations; Raises Full Year Guidance

Posted on May 8, 2025May 8, 2025 by cpereira@noblefcm.com

Thursday, May 08, 2025

CoreCivic is a diversified, government-solutions company with the scale and experience needed to solve tough government challenges in flexible, cost-effective ways. We provide a broad range of solutions to government partners that serve the public good through high-quality corrections and detention management, a network of residential and non-residential alternatives to incarceration to help address America’s recidivism crisis, and government real estate solutions. We are the nation’s largest owner of partnership correctional, detention and residential reentry facilities, and believe we are the largest private owner of real estate used by government agencies in the United States. We have been a flexible and dependable partner for government for nearly 40 years. Our employees are driven by a deep sense of service, high standards of professionalism and a responsibility to help government better the public good. Learn more at www.corecivic.com.

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

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Exceeds Expectations. Driven by an increase in occupancy to 77%, increased bed utilization, and cost management, CoreCivic exceeded internal expectations as well as our projections. Revenue was $488.6 million, better than our $480.1 million estimate. Adjusted EBITDA was $81 million compared to our $69.1 million estimate. FFO was $0.45/sh versus our $0.35/sh estimate, and EPS was $0.23 compared to our estimate of $0.12. In 1Q24, CoreCivic reported revenue of $500.7 million, adjusted EBITDA of $89.5 million, EPS of $0.08, and adjusted EPS of $0.25. The previous year benefited from contracts that were eventually lost during the year.

More Business. In addition to the 2,400 bed Dilley facility, CoreCivic has received letter agreements from ICE for the potential activation of the 1,033-bed Midwest Regional Reception Center in Leavenworth, Kansas and at the 2,560-bed California City Immigration Processing Center in California City, California. Management anticipates additional contracting activity as 2025 progresses.

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Commercial Vehicle Group (CVGI) – Post Call Comments

Posted on May 8, 2025May 8, 2025 by cpereira@noblefcm.com

Thursday, May 08, 2025

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

Hans Baldau, Associate Analyst, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

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

Promising Signs. Management highlighted the success of the Company’s ongoing efforts to improve cash flow and pay down debt. Compared to Q4 2024, Q1 2025 improved across several important financial metrics, resulting in increased profitability and margin growth due to operational efficiencies from the lower cost structure.

Reorganization. This quarter, the company launched its new segment structure: Global Seating, Global Electrical Systems, and Trim Systems and Components. The revised structure aims to better connect with the end market customer and sharpen the Company’s focus on the business units.

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The ODP Corporation (ODP) – A Step In The Right Direction

Posted on May 8, 2025May 8, 2025 by cpereira@noblefcm.com

Thursday, May 08, 2025

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

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

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Q1 Results. Sales for the first quarter were $1.699 billion compared to $1.869 billion last year but were above our expectations of $1.625 billion. Net loss totaled $29 million, or a loss of $0.97/sh, compared to a net income of $15 million, or $0.40/sh, in the prior year. Adjusted EPS was $1.06, which surpassed our estimate of $0.58/sh, but was lower than $1.31 last year. Adjusted EBITDA of $76 million beat our estimate of $59 million and decreased from $91 million last year.

Favorable Developments. The initial hospitality partnership covers approximately 15,000 potential customer locations within a national hotel management group and is expected to provide a foundation for long-term growth in the segment and adjacent industries. Notably, the company is building inventory and hiring experienced sales personnel to support growth. We believe its actions will drive meaningful growth in the hospitality segment, with meaningful contributions in the second half of 2025.

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The GEO Group (GEO) – 1Q25 Results Lag Estimates; but Growth Story Remains Intact

Posted on May 8, 2025May 8, 2025 by cpereira@noblefcm.com

Thursday, May 08, 2025

The GEO Group, Inc. (NYSE: GEO) is a leading diversified government service provider, specializing in design, financing, development, and support services for secure facilities, processing centers, and community reentry centers in the United States, Australia, South Africa, and the United Kingdom. GEO’s diversified services include enhanced in-custody rehabilitation and post-release support through the award-winning GEO Continuum of Care®, secure transportation, electronic monitoring, community-based programs, and correctional health and mental health care. GEO’s worldwide operations include the ownership and/or delivery of support services for 103 facilities totaling approximately 83,000 beds, including idle facilities and projects under development, with a workforce of up to approximately 18,000 employees.

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

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1Q25 Results. Revenue of $604.9 million, compared to $605.7 million in 1Q24 and our $608 million estimate. Adjusted EBITDA was $99.8 million, down from $117.6 million in 1Q24 and our $114 million estimate. GEO reported net income of $19.6 million, or EPS of $0.14, compared to $22.7 million, or $0.14/sh, in the same period last year.

Ready To Go. GEO remains poised to assist the Federal government in its immigration policies. We have previously discussed a number of new contracts for the Company, and we anticipate additional awards over the remainder of 2025.

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NN, Inc. (NNBR) – First Look at the First Quarter of 2025

Posted on May 8, 2025May 8, 2025 by cpereira@noblefcm.com

Thursday, May 08, 2025

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

Hans Baldau, Associate Analyst, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

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Commercial Traction Building. NN added $16.4 million of new business in the first quarter. The Company is well on pace to hit the lower end of its $60 to $70 million full-year target. NN continues to see positive traction in targeted markets, including medical, high-value automotive, and electrical components. Additionally, the Company’s commercial pipeline is strong at over $740 million.

Mixed Financial Start Amidst Transition. First quarter net sales came in at $105.7 million, compared to $121.2 million a year ago, with the decline primarily reflecting the Lubbock sale and rationalized business lines. On a pro forma basis, revenue was down just 1.3% year-over-year. Power Solutions declined to $43.5 million from $48.2 million in 2024 due to the sale of Lubbock. Mobile Solutions revenue fell to $62.2 million compared to $73.1 million during the same prior year period, due to the closing of the Juarez plant. Adjusted EBITDA was $10.6 million, slightly lower than last year’s $11.3 million and lower than our $11.6 million estimate. Adjusted EPS loss for the quarter improved year-over-year to $0.03 from a loss of $0.08.

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DLH Holdings (DLHC) – First Look into 2Q25

Posted on May 8, 2025May 8, 2025 by cpereira@noblefcm.com

Thursday, May 08, 2025

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

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

Tempered Results. DLH reported fiscal second quarter 2025 results in-line with our projections. Financial results continue to be negatively impacted by small business set asides and the run off of acquired small business revenue. Despite these headwinds, DLH’s core services revenue remained strong as the Company delivered cutting-edge solutions in support of customers’ mission-critical work.

2Q25 Results. Revenue declined 11.7% to $89.2 million in 2Q25, driven by small business conversions, but was in-line with our $90 million projection. DLH’s adjusted EBITDA totaled $9.4 million, down from $10.2 million in 2Q24. We were at $9.75 million. Net income was $0.9 million, or $0.06/sh, compared to $1.6 million, or $0.12/sh, last year and our estimate of $1.0 million, or $0.07/sh.

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Coinbase Acquires Deribit for $2.9 Billion to Expand Global Crypto Derivatives Footprint

Posted on May 8, 2025May 8, 2025 by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

Key Points
– Coinbase acquires Deribit in a $2.9B cash-and-stock deal to expand its crypto derivatives business globally.
– The acquisition strengthens Coinbase’s presence in Europe and Asia, where leveraged trading is more common.
– The deal positions Coinbase for potential future U.S. regulatory shifts that may allow options trading domestically.

Coinbase is making a bold move to expand its global reach and diversify its offerings by acquiring Deribit, a leading crypto derivatives exchange, in a $2.9 billion deal. This acquisition, comprising $700 million in cash and 11 million shares of Coinbase stock, positions Coinbase to tap into the burgeoning market for crypto options and futures, particularly outside the United States.

Deribit, founded in 2016 and now headquartered in Dubai, has established itself as a dominant player in the crypto derivatives space, with 2024 trading volumes nearing $1.2 trillion. The platform’s strength lies in its robust offerings of options, futures, and spot trading services, attracting a growing base of institutional investors.

This acquisition aligns with a broader trend of consolidation in the crypto industry, spurred by a favorable regulatory climate under President Trump’s administration. Recent notable deals include Kraken’s $1.5 billion acquisition of NinjaTrader and Ripple’s $1.25 billion purchase of Hidden Road. Coinbase’s move to acquire Deribit underscores its commitment to expanding its derivatives capabilities and solidifying its position as a comprehensive player in the global crypto market.

The deal is expected to enhance Coinbase’s presence in non-U.S. markets, especially in Asia and Europe, where leveraged trading is more prevalent. By integrating Deribit’s advanced trading infrastructure, Coinbase aims to offer a broader range of derivatives products to its international clients, catering to both institutional and retail traders seeking sophisticated risk management tools.

Analysts view this acquisition as a strategic step for Coinbase to capitalize on the growing demand for crypto derivatives, which offer traders the ability to hedge positions and navigate market volatility effectively. With the crypto market maturing and attracting more institutional participation, the addition of Deribit’s platform is poised to drive significant revenue growth for Coinbase.

In the context of the evolving regulatory landscape, Coinbase’s acquisition of Deribit also reflects a proactive approach to navigating compliance requirements while expanding its global footprint. Deribit’s relocation to Dubai and its licensing under the Virtual Asset Regulatory Authority (VARA) provide Coinbase with a strategic base to operate in a jurisdiction that is increasingly becoming a hub for crypto innovation.

As the crypto industry continues to evolve, Coinbase’s acquisition of Deribit marks a significant milestone in its journey to become a leading global crypto exchange with a comprehensive suite of products and services. This move not only enhances Coinbase’s competitive edge but also signals a broader shift towards the integration of advanced financial instruments in the digital asset ecosystem.

With this acquisition, Coinbase is well-positioned to meet the growing demand for sophisticated trading solutions and to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the global crypto derivatives market.

Fed Holds Rates Steady Despite Trump’s Demands for Cuts

Posted on May 8, 2025May 8, 2025 by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

Key Points:
– The Federal Reserve held interest rates steady at 4.25%–4.5%, resisting pressure from President Trump to cut.
– Trump’s tariffs and public criticism have added political heat to the Fed’s cautious approach.
– The Fed cited increased uncertainty, persistent inflation, and solid job growth as reasons to hold.

The Federal Reserve left interest rates unchanged on Wednesday, defying calls from President Donald Trump to lower borrowing costs as the U.S. economy faces heightened uncertainty tied to new tariffs and global instability. The decision, which keeps the federal funds rate in a range of 4.25% to 4.5%, marks the third straight meeting where rates have been held steady.

Fed officials voted unanimously, with Chairman Jerome Powell signaling a cautious stance in response to evolving risks. While acknowledging increased economic uncertainty, the central bank maintained that the U.S. economy continues to grow at a “solid pace,” supported by a stable job market.

“In considering the extent and timing of any additional rate changes, the Committee will carefully assess incoming data, the evolving outlook, and the balance of risks,” the Fed said in its post-meeting statement.

Trump’s Pressure Campaign

President Trump has been publicly pressuring the Fed to lower rates, arguing that “preemptive cuts” are necessary to counter the economic drag caused by his administration’s new tariffs. Trump has repeatedly attacked Powell on social media, labeling him a “major loser” and saying his “termination can’t come fast enough,” though he later clarified he does not intend to remove Powell before his term ends in 2026.

The president’s trade policy has injected fresh uncertainty into the economic outlook. A rush to import goods before tariffs kicked in helped trigger a contraction in first-quarter GDP — the first economic decline in three years.

Despite these headwinds, Powell made clear that the Fed’s decisions will be driven by data, not politics. “We’re not reacting to any one voice,” Powell said during his press conference. “Our job is to deliver stable prices and full employment — we’ll adjust policy when the facts warrant it.”

Solid Jobs, Sticky Inflation

April’s jobs report showed continued labor market strength, with low unemployment and steady hiring. Fed officials noted this resilience but flagged rising risks around both inflation and employment in the coming months. Inflation remains “somewhat elevated,” the Fed said, citing recent data showing price growth at 2.6% annually in March and a quarterly rate of 3.5% — both above the Fed’s 2% target.

The Fed’s reluctance to cut rates stems from a desire to avoid reigniting inflation, even as growth slows. “We’re watching carefully,” Powell said. “But we want to be confident that inflation is headed sustainably back to target before making further moves.”

A Balancing Act Ahead

The decision leaves the Fed in a holding pattern, waiting to see how Trump’s aggressive trade policies and political rhetoric play out against a backdrop of uncertain growth. Financial markets are now pricing in a possible rate cut later this year, depending on inflation trends and the depth of any economic slowdown.

As the 2026 presidential race begins to loom and Trump ramps up his campaign, the Fed’s independence may come under even more scrutiny. For now, Powell and his colleagues are standing firm — signaling they won’t be rushed into policy shifts without clear justification.