Page 297 – Channelchek

Release – CoreCivic Enters Into Amendment and Extension of Bank Credit Facility

Posted on October 12, 2023October 12, 2023 by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

October 12, 2023

Increases Size to $400 Million

BRENTWOOD, Tenn., Oct. 12, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — CoreCivic, Inc. (NYSE: CXW) (“CoreCivic”) announced today it entered into a Fourth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement dated October 11, 2023, by and among CoreCivic, as Borrower, certain lenders party thereto from time to time, and the administrative agent for the lenders, or the New Bank Credit Facility. The New Bank Credit Facility effectively replaces CoreCivic’s Third Amended and Restated Credit Agreement dated May 12, 2022. The New Bank Credit Facility is in the aggregate principal amount of $400 million, consisting of a $125 million term loan and a $275 million revolving credit facility.

The New Bank Credit Facility, among other things, increases the available borrowings under the revolving credit facility from $250 million to $275 million and increases the size of the term loan from an initial balance of $100 million to $125 million, extends the maturity date to October 11, 2028 from May 12, 2026, and makes conforming changes to replace the Bloomberg Short-Term Bank Yield Index, or BSBY, to the secured overnight financing rate, or SOFR. Further, financial covenants were modified to remove the $100 million limit of netting unrestricted cash and cash equivalents when calculating the consolidated total leverage ratio, the consolidated secured leverage ratio, and to increase the consolidated total leverage ratio resulting in a “springing lien” event from 4:00 to 1.00 to 4.25 to 1.00. At the closing of the New Bank Credit Facility, CoreCivic received approximately $33.8 million of net borrowings before transaction costs as a result of the increased size of the term loan, and the revolving credit facility remains undrawn except for approximately $17.4 million in outstanding letters of credit.

David M. Garfinkle, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, stated, “We are very pleased with the support from our new and existing financial partners enabling us to further extend our overall debt maturity profile, maintain a similar pricing structure, while providing us with greater financial flexibility.”

About CoreCivic

CoreCivic is a diversified, government-solutions company with the scale and experience needed to solve tough government challenges in flexible, cost-effective ways. We provide a broad range of solutions to government partners that serve the public good through high-quality corrections and detention management, a network of residential and non-residential alternatives to incarceration to help address America’s recidivism crisis, and government real estate solutions. We are the nation’s largest owner of partnership correctional, detention and residential reentry facilities, and one of the largest prison operators in the United States. We have been a flexible and dependable partner for government for 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.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains statements as to our beliefs and expectations of the outcome of future events that are “forward-looking” statements within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, as amended. You can identify these statements by the fact that they do not relate strictly to historical or current facts. Examples of these statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding CoreCivic’s financial flexibility. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from the statements made including, but not limited to, risks and uncertainties associated with economic conditions affecting the corrections and detention industry. Other factors that could cause operating and financial results to differ are described in the filings we make from time to time with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Except as required by applicable law, CoreCivic does not undertake any responsibility for updating the information contained in this press release following the date hereof to reflect events or circumstances occurring after the date hereof or the occurrence of unanticipated events or for any changes or modifications made to this press release or the information contained herein by any third-parties, including, but not limited to, any wire or internet services.

Contact	Investors: David Garfinkle – Chief Financial Officer – (615) 263-3008
	Financial Media: David Gutierrez, Dresner Corporate Services – (312) 780-7204

Release – Salem Media Group’s La Nueva Poderosa 670 AM Partners with The Weather Channel en Español

Posted on October 12, 2023October 12, 2023 by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

Research News and Market Data on SALM

Download as PDFOctober 12, 2023 6:00am EDT

The Partnership Will Provide Daily Expert Weather Forecasts & Extreme Weather Warnings to South Florida Hispanics

IRVING, Texas–(BUSINESS WIRE)– Salem Media Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: SALM) announced today that La Nueva Poderosa 670 AM in Miami and The Weather Channel en Español have entered into a strategic partnership that will enhance weather coverage and climate reporting in Spanish, specifically curated for South Florida.

La Nueva Poderosa, South Florida’s leading Spanish-language, news/talk radio station in Miami, will broadcast the Weather Channel forecasts twice a day with additional reporting and expert interviews during critical weather. The Weather Channel en Español reports will feature its diverse team of award-winning meteorologists and its exceptional behind-the-scenes production/news gathering team. The Weather Channel en Español’s forecasts will also air on Salem Media Group’s Radio Oasis 990 AM in Miami.

The content will also be distributed on La Nueva Poderosa’s website www.lapoderosa.com, Radio Oasis’ website www.oasisradiomiami.com and the stations’ apps and social media platforms.

ABOUT LA NEUVA PODEROSA 670 AM:

La Nueva Poderosa 670 AM, a Salem Media Group station, has been a trusted stalwart of the South Florida community for 25 years, transmitting 50,000 kilowatts over South Florida and the Caribbean. Streaming online 24 hours a day, it also boasts a worldwide audience. For decades, La Nueva Poderosa has been the station that South Florida Hispanics turn to as the hub of information and the latest local, national, and international news and opinions. Its emphasis on listener participation, expert interviews and around-the-clock news updates makes La Neva Poderosa 670 the go-to source for South Florida’s very diverse Hispanic community. La Nueva Poderosa simulcasts on WWFE 670 AM, WRHC 1550 AM, and 103.1 FM.

ABOUT THE WEATHER CHANNEL en ESPANOL:

The Weather Channel en Español network is the first 24/7 Spanish-language free-streaming weather news network in the United States, providing weather coverage and news across the U.S., the Caribbean and Latin America. The network is 100% free and available across over-the-top streaming platforms. Outside of live broadcasts, the new network features original content that adds value to the viewer’s experience with programming that provides interesting and unexpected views into the world of weather, climate change and more.

The Weather Channel en Español is available on The Weather Channel streaming app and Allen Media Group’s Local Now, Sports.TV and theGrio. TWCE is also available on Roku Channel, YouTube TV, Hulu+LIVE TV, Redbox, Verizon Fios, FuboTV, Xumo Play, Plex, FreeCast, Canela.TV, and the Audacy app.

ABOUT SALEM MEDIA GROUP:

Salem Media Group is America’s leading multimedia company specializing in Christian and conservative content, with media properties comprising radio, digital media and book and newsletter publishing. Each day Salem serves a loyal and dedicated audience of listeners and readers numbering in the millions nationally. With its unique programming focus, Salem provides compelling content, fresh commentary and relevant information from some of the most respected figures across the Christian and conservative media landscape. Learn more about Salem Media Group, Inc. at www.salemmedia.com, Facebook and Twitter.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230919243663/en/

Evan D. Masyr
Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
(805) 384-4512
evan@salemmedia.com

Source: Salem Media Group, Inc.

Released October 12, 2023

PDS Biotechnology Corp. (PDSB) – Data For PDS0301 Phase 1/2 To Show Immune Response and Safety Data

Posted on October 12, 2023October 12, 2023 by cpereira@noblefcm.com

Thursday, October 12, 2023

PDS Biotech is a clinical-stage immunotherapy company developing a growing pipeline of molecularly targeted cancer and infectious disease immunotherapies based on the Company’s proprietary Versamune® and Infectimune™ T-cell activating technology platforms. Our Versamune®-based products have demonstrated the potential to overcome the limitations of current immunotherapy by inducing in vivo, large quantities of high-quality, highly potent polyfunctional tumor specific CD4+ helper and CD8+ killer T-cells. PDS Biotech has developed multiple therapies, based on combinations of Versamune® and disease-specific antigens, designed to train the immune system to better recognize diseased cells and effectively attack and destroy them. The Company’s pipeline products address various cancers including HPV16-associated cancers (anal, cervical, head and neck, penile, vaginal, vulvar) and breast, colon, lung, prostate and ovarian cancers.

Robert LeBoyer, Senior Vice President, Equity Research Analyst, Biotechnology, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

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

First PDS 0301 Prostate Cancer Data To Be Presented. PDS Biotech announced that data from a Phase 1/2 study testing PDS0301 in combination with docetaxel to treat prostate cancer will be presented by National Cancer Institute (NCI) scientists at the Cytokines 2023 meeting on October 15-18. This combination uses PDS0301 with docetaxel to stimulate an immune response and kill the cancer cells. Preliminary data from the trial shows increases in populations of immune cells, pro-inflammatory cytokines, and decreases in PSA levels.

Preliminary Results Show Immune Stimulation With Tolerability. The presentation includes 18 patients with metastatic castrate resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC, n=11) and sensitive prostate cancer (mCRPC, n=7). Patients received one of three dose levels tested in combination with a standard dose of docetaxel every three weeks. Results showed decreases in PSA ranging from -4% to -100%, with increases in CD4 and CD8 immune cells. Cytokines INF-gamma and IL-10 were increased, with decreases in the Treg (suppressive regulatory) cells. These responses are consistent with our expectations for an effective immune response.

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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.

Rising Housing Costs Drive Consumer Inflation Even Higher in September

Posted on October 12, 2023October 12, 2023 by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

Consumer inflation accelerated more than expected in September due largely to intensifying shelter costs, putting further pressure on household budgets and keeping the Federal Reserve on high alert.

The consumer price index (CPI) increased 0.4% last month after rising 0.1% in August, the Labor Department reported Thursday. On an annual basis, prices were up 3.7% through September.

Both the monthly and yearly inflation rates exceeded economist forecasts of 0.3% and 3.6% respectively.

The higher than anticipated inflation extends the squeeze on consumers in the form of elevated prices for essentials like food, housing, and transportation. It also keeps the Fed under the microscope as officials debate further interest rate hikes to cool demand and restrain prices.

Surging Shelter Costs in Focus

The main driver behind the inflation uptick in September was shelter costs. The shelter index, which includes rent and owners’ equivalent rent, jumped 0.6% for the month. Shelter costs also posted the largest yearly gain at 7.2%.

On a monthly basis, shelter accounted for over half of the total increase in CPI. Surging rents and housing costs reflect pandemic trends like strong demand amid limited supply.

“Just because the rate of inflation is stable for now doesn’t mean its weight isn’t increasing every month on family budgets,” noted Robert Frick, corporate economist at Navy Federal Credit Union. “That shelter and food costs rose particularly is especially painful.”

Energy and Food Costs Also Climb

While shelter led the inflation surge, other categories saw notable increases as well in September. Energy costs rose 1.5% led by gasoline, fuel oil, and natural gas. Food prices gained 0.2% for the third consecutive month, with a 6% jump in food away from home.

On an annual basis, energy costs were down 0.5% but food was up 3.7% year-over-year through September.

Used vehicle prices declined 2.5% in September but new vehicle costs rose 0.3%. Overall, transportation services inflation eased to 0.9% annually in September from 9.5% in August.

Wage Growth Lags Inflation

Rising consumer costs continue to outpace income growth, squeezing household budgets. Average hourly earnings rose just 0.2% in September, not enough to keep pace with the 0.4% inflation rate.

That caused real average hourly earnings to fall 0.2% last month. On a yearly basis, real wages were up only 0.5% through September—a fraction of the 3.7% inflation rate over that period.

American consumers have relied more heavily on savings and credit to maintain spending amid high inflation. But rising borrowing costs could limit their ability to sustain that trend.

Fed Still Focused on Inflation Fight

The hotter-than-expected CPI print keeps the Fed anchored on inflation worries. Though annual inflation has eased from over 9% in June, the 3.7% rate remains well above the Fed’s 2% target.

Officials raised interest rates by 75 basis points in both September and November, pushing the federal funds rate to a range of 3-3.25%. Markets expect another 50-75 basis point hike in December.

Treasury yields surged following the CPI report, reflecting ongoing inflation concerns. Persistently high shelter and food inflation could spur the Fed to stick to its aggressive rate hike path into 2023.

Taming inflation remains the Fed’s number one priority, even at the risk of slowing economic growth. The latest CPI data shows they still have work to do on that front.

All eyes will now turn to the October and November inflation reports heading into the pivotal December policy meeting. Further hotter-than-expected readings could force the Fed’s hand on more supersized rate hikes aimed at cooling demand and prices across the economy.

AZZ Inc. (AZZ) – Sales a bit light, but margins are holding steady.

Posted on October 12, 2023October 12, 2023 by cpereira@noblefcm.com

Thursday, October 12, 2023

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.

Sales growth stagnated. 2024-2Q sales decreased 1.9% (Metal Coatings up 2.4% and Precoat Metals down 5.0%) due to a soft market for precoated construction and appliances. Management remains optimistic that sales growth will resume pointing to rising new home startups and the AIIJ Act.

EBITDA margins held steady despite the sale decline. Metal Coatings maintained an EBITDA margin above 30% and Precoat Metals held its EBITDA margin near 20%. Importantly, the company has been making a concerted effort to reduce customer inventories. Lower inventories has helped reduce costs and improved cash flow leaving the company well positioned for seasonal sales declines during the winter months.

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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).

Harmony Biosciences Bets on Cannabinoid Therapy for Rare Disorders with $200 Million Zynerba Buyout

Posted on October 12, 2023October 12, 2023 by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

Harmony Biosciences aims to expand its pipeline into rare neuropsychiatric disorders through the acquisition of Zynerba Pharmaceuticals and its innovative cannabinoid gel technology.

Harmony, known for its narcolepsy drug Wakix, announced Monday that it will acquire Zynerba in a deal worth up to $200 million. The buyout provides Harmony with Zynerba’s lead asset, Zygel, a synthetic cannabidiol gel in mid-stage trials for Fragile X syndrome and 22q11.2 deletion syndrome.

Zygel could become the first FDA-approved drug for managing Fragile X if it succeeds in pivotal trials. Harmony sees the drug as a way to expand beyond sleep disorders while tackling high unmet needs in orphan neuropsychiatric conditions.

Fragile X affects 80,000 in the U.S., causing intellectual disability and behavioral challenges. Zynerba’s focus aligns with Harmony’s mission in rare neurological diseases, said Harmony CEO Jeffrey Dayno, M.D. in Monday’s announcement.

“With Harmony’s scale, resources and proven commercial excellence, they are well positioned to potentially bring to market the first pharmaceutical product indicated for the treatment of behavioral symptoms of Fragile X syndrome and to maximize the value of Zygel,” added Zynerba Chairman and CEO Armando Anido.

No FDA-Approved Options Today

Fragile X syndrome stems from mutations in the FMR1 gene which codes for FMRP, a protein vital for synaptic function and neural connections. The lack of FMRP causes cognitive impairments. Around 60% of Fragile X patients don’t produce any FMRP due to methylation.

While Fragile X affects tens of thousands in the U.S. alone, there are no FDA-approved treatments. Patients rely on behavioral interventions and off-label drug use.

Zynerba’s Zygel aims to modulate the endocannabinoid system impacted by the loss of FMRP. The gel contains synthetic cannabidiol, absorbing through the skin to avoid first-pass metabolism.

Zygel already secured FDA orphan drug status for both Fragile X and 22q deletion syndrome. It also won Fast Track designation for Fragile X.

Now in pivotal Phase 3 trials, Zygel showed positive Phase 2 data in both indications. Harmony believes the drug can help patients manage behavioral symptoms if approved.

Betting Up to $200M on Approval

Under the acquisition terms, Harmony will pay $60 million upfront for Zynerba’s shares, or $1.1059 per share in cash. Zynerba shareholders will also receive one contingent value right (CVR) worth up to $2.5444 per share more.

The CVR payments depend on Zygel hitting clinical, regulatory and sales milestones:

$15M for completing Phase 3 Fragile X trial
Up to $30M for Phase 3 data (timing-based)
$35M for FDA approval in Fragile X
$15M for approval in a second indication
Up to $45M for reaching sales milestones

Altogether, the deal is valued at up to $200 million if Zygel secures FDA approval and reaches peak sales targets. Harmony expects the buyout to close in Q4 2023.

“Innovative potential new therapeutic option for rare/orphan neuropsychiatric disorders with high unmet medical needs,” said Harmony CEO Dayno.

Doubling Down on Rare Diseases

The acquisition aligns with Harmony’s focus on innovative treatments for overlooked neurological diseases. Zynerba’s work in underserved neuropsychiatric disorders complements Harmony’s leading drug in narcolepsy.

Harmony markets Wakix, a first-in-class H3 receptor antagonist that hit $230 million in net sales over the twelve months ending June 30, 2022. But the company sees untapped growth opportunities in adjacent rare diseases.

The Zynerba deal provides pipeline diversification into high-value orphan drug development. Harmony now has new opportunities in gene mutation disorders like Fragile X and 22q deletion syndrome.

With a profitable commercial engine already built, Harmony is betting its expertise and $430 million cash position can maximize Zygel’s impact if approved. The company sees Zynerba’s cannabinoid therapy as both a strategic fit and a long-term growth driver if milestones are met.

For shareholders, the buyout provides Harmony an approved orphan drug asset with potential peak sales upside. And for patients, it brings hope for the first therapy to address Fragile X symptoms.

Release – Snail Games USA and Angela Game Settle Myth of Empires Trade Secret and Copyright Allegations

Posted on October 11, 2023October 11, 2023 by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

Research News and Market Data on SNAL

October 11, 2023 at 4:00 AM EDT

PDF Version

Under the Agreement Snail Games Will Partner With Angela Game to Distribute Myth of Empires on Digital and Retail Platforms

CULVER CITY, Calif., Oct. 11, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Snail, Inc. (Nasdaq: SNAL) (“Snail”), a leading, global independent developer and publisher of interactive digital entertainment and video game software, along with its subsidiary Studio Wildcard, has officially disclosed a settlement agreement with Suzhou Angela Online Game Technology Co., Ltd (“Angela”) and Imperium Interactive Entertainment Limited (“Imperium”). The settlement marks the resolution of copyright and trade secret litigation concerning Myth of Empires (MoE) and includes ongoing royalty payments of Myth of Empires from Angela to Snail, while Snail assists the distribution of Myth of Empires. While details of the Settlement and Release Agreement remain confidential, the parties jointly announced the resolution of their disputes and Snail Games’s cooperation with Angela in the distribution of Myth of Empires going forward.

The original legal complaint can be found HERE:
https://casetext.com/case/suzhou-angela-online-game-tech-co-v-snail-games-us-inc-3/
Full title: Suzhou Angela Online Game Technology Co., Ltd. et al. v. Snail Games USA…
Court: United States District Court, Central District of California

“Following nearly two years of litigation, we are pleased to announce this settlement agreement for Snail, Angela, and Studio Wildcard. Angela acknowledges that it caused difficulties for Snail’s business. By working together, Angela and Snail will put those difficulties behind them. Angela regrets any difficulties it caused Snail and looks forward to moving into this business partnership. At the same time we hope that, with Snail’s extensive user resources and excellent platform relationships built on ARK, they can assist us in our future publishing efforts, injecting greater market vitality into Myth of Empires,” said Yi Ling Zheng, President, Angela Game.

“We are pleased to announce this settlement agreement and facilitate the re-release of Myth of Empires which benefits both parties and opens up additional revenue streams for us through the partnership with Angela,” said Doug Kennedy, Co-founder of Studio Wildcard.

This is pursuant to the terms of the settlement, Snail Games will withdraw its DMCA Notice against Myth of Empires and work collaboratively with PC distribution platforms for a re-release of the game in early 2024. Additionally, Snail Games will partner on the global launch of MoE on both PlayStation and Microsoft platforms in early 2024 and will assist in public relations, marketing, and first party support for the game. Myth of Empires will be released by Angela and Snail Games both physically and digitally on console and PC. Angela Games will also develop a steady cadence of DLC and expansion packs for Myth of Empires, in partnership with Snail Games USA.

About Snail Games USA, Inc.

Snail Games is a leading, global independent developer and publisher of interactive digital entertainment for consumers around the world, with a premier portfolio of premium games designed for use on a variety of platforms, including consoles, PCs and mobile devices.

About Angela Game

Founded in 2019, Angela Game is a developer devoted to creating next-generation multiplayer titles that feature profound realism and authenticity, immersive large-scale battles, and innovative gameplay.

Contacts:
Investors:
investors@snail.com

Release – Alvopetro Announces 183-A3 Well Results

Posted on October 11, 2023October 11, 2023 by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

Research News and Market Data on ALVOF

Oct 11, 2023

CALGARY, AB, Oct. 11, 2023 /CNW/ – Alvopetro Energy Ltd. (TSXV: ALV) (OTCQX: ALVOF) is pleased to announce that we have now completed drilling the 183-A3 well on our 100% owned Murucututu natural gas field. Based on open-hole logs, the well encountered potential net natural gas pay across two separate formations totaling 127.7 metres, with an average porosity of 10.3%.

President and CEO, Corey C. Ruttan commented:

“The results from our uphole 183-A3 Caruaçu exploration target has significantly exceeded our pre-drill expectations and has the potential to open up a large stacked multi-zone development opportunity in further support of our longer-term natural gas growth objectives.”

The 183-A3 well was drilled to a total measured depth (“MD”) of 3,540 metres. Based on open-hole logs, the well encountered potential net natural gas pay in both the Caruaçu Member of the Maracangalha Formation and the Gomo Member of the Candeias Formation, with an aggregate 127.7 metres total vertical depth (“TVD”) of potential natural gas pay, using a 6% porosity cut-off, 50% Vshale cut-off and 50% water saturation cutoff.

Caruaçu Exploration Target

In the Caruaçu Member, a total of 116.1 metres TVD of potential net natural gas pay was encountered between 2,542 metres and 3,062 metres, at an average 38.5% water saturation and an average porosity of 10.4%. Alvopetro currently has no reserves or resources assigned to this Target.

Candeias Formation

In the Gomo Member of the Candeias Formation, a total of 11.6 metres TVD of potential net natural gas pay was encountered between 3,085 metres and 3,270 metres, at an average water saturation of 30.6% and an average porosity of 9.1%. Our Proved reserves for this development well had estimated 12.5 meters of net natural gas pay with porosity of 11.0% and 17% water saturation.

Based on these drilling results, subject to regulatory approvals and equipment availability, we plan to complete the well and put it on production directly to the adjacent field production facility.

Corporate Presentation

Alvopetro’s updated corporate presentation is available on our website at:http://www.alvopetro.com/corporate-presentation.

Social Media

Follow Alvopetro on our social media channels at the following links:

Twitter – https://twitter.com/AlvopetroEnergyInstagram – https://www.instagram.com/alvopetro/LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/alvopetro-energy-ltdYouTube –https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgDn_igrQgdlj-maR6fWB0w

Alvopetro Energy Ltd.’s vision is to become a leading independent upstream and midstream operator in Brazil. Our strategy is to unlock the on-shore natural gas potential in the state of Bahia in Brazil, building off the development of our Caburé and Murucututu natural gas fields and our strategic midstream infrastructure.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.

All amounts contained in this new release are in United States dollars, unless otherwise stated and all tabular amounts are in thousands of United States dollars, except as otherwise noted.

Testing and Well Results. Data obtained from the 183-A3 well identified in this press release, including hydrocarbon shows, open-hole logging, net pay and porosities should be considered to be preliminary until testing, detailed analysis and interpretation has been completed. Hydrocarbon shows can be seen during the drilling of a well in numerous circumstances and do not necessarily indicate a commercial discovery or the presence of commercial hydrocarbons in a well. There is no representation by Alvopetro that the data relating to the 183-A3 well contained in this press release is necessarily indicative of long-term performance or ultimate recovery. The reader is cautioned not to unduly rely on such data as such data may not be indicative of future performance of the well or of expected production or operational results for Alvopetro in the future.

Cautionary statements regarding the filing of a Notice of Discovery. We have submitted a Notice of Discovery of Hydrocarbons to the Agência Nacional do Petróleo, Gás Natural e Biocombustíveis (the “ANP”) with respect to the 183-A3 well. All operators in Brazil are required to inform the ANP, through the filing of a Notice of Discovery, of potential hydrocarbon discoveries. A Notice of Discovery is required to be filed with the ANP based on hydrocarbon indications in cuttings, mud logging or by gas detector, in combination with wire-line logging. Based on the results of open-hole logs, we have filed a Notice of Discovery relating to our 183-A3 well. These routine notifications to the ANP are not necessarily indicative of commercial hydrocarbons, potential production, recovery or reserves.

Oil and natural gas reserves. This news release includes certain information contained in the independent reserves and resources assessment and evaluation prepared by GLJ Ltd. (“GLJ”) dated February 27, 2023 with an effective date of December 31, 2022 (the “GLJ Reserves and Resource Report”). Specifically, this news release contains information concerning proved reserves in the GLJ Reserves and Resource Report applicable to the 183-A3 well. The information included herein represents only a portion of the disclosure required under NI 51-101. Full disclosure with respect to the Company’s reserves as at December 31, 2022 is included in the Company’s annual information form for the year ended December 31, 2022 which has been filed on SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.ca) The reserves definitions used in this evaluation are the standards defined by COGEH reserve definitions and are consistent with NI 51-101 and used by GLJ. The recovery and reserve estimates of the Company’s reserves provided herein are estimates only and there is no guarantee that the estimated reserves will be recovered. Actual reserves may be greater than or less than the estimates provided herein

Forward-Looking Statements and Cautionary Language. This news release contains “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable securities laws. The use of any of the words “will”, “expect”, “intend” and other similar words or expressions are intended to identify forward-looking information. Forward‐looking statements involve significant risks and uncertainties, should not be read as guarantees of future performance or results, and will not necessarily be accurate indications of whether or not such results will be achieved. A number of factors could cause actual results to vary significantly from the expectations discussed in the forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements reflect current assumptions and expectations regarding future events. Accordingly, when relying on forward-looking statements to make decisions, Alvopetro cautions readers not to place undue reliance on these statements, as forward-looking statements involve significant risks and uncertainties. More particularly and without limitation, this news release contains forward-looking information concerning potential net natural gas pay in the 183-A3 well and expectations regarding future development plans for the well and the Murucututu natural gas field. The forward‐looking statements are based on certain key expectations and assumptions made by Alvopetro, including but not limited to expectations and assumptions concerning results from completing the 183-A3 well, equipment availability, the timing of regulatory licenses and approvals, the success of future drilling, completion, testing, recompletion and development activities, the outlook for commodity markets and ability to access capital markets, the impact of global pandemics and other significant worldwide events, the performance of producing wells and reservoirs, well development and operating performance, foreign exchange rates, general economic and business conditions, weather and access to drilling locations, the availability and cost of labour and services, environmental regulation, including regulation relating to hydraulic fracturing and stimulation, the ability to monetize hydrocarbons discovered, expectations regarding Alvopetro’s working interest and the outcome of any redeterminations, the regulatory and legal environment and other risks associated with oil and gas operations. The reader is cautioned that assumptions used in the preparation of such information, although considered reasonable at the time of preparation, may prove to be incorrect. Actual results achieved during the forecast period will vary from the information provided herein as a result of numerous known and unknown risks and uncertainties and other factors. Although Alvopetro believes that the expectations and assumptions on which such forward-looking information is based are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on the forward-looking information because Alvopetro can give no assurance that it will prove to be correct. Readers are cautioned that the foregoing list of factors is not exhaustive. Additional information on factors that could affect the operations or financial results of Alvopetro are included in our annual information form which may be accessed on Alvopetro’s SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca. The forward-looking information contained in this news release is made as of the date hereof and Alvopetro undertakes no obligation to update publicly or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, unless so required by applicable securities laws.

SOURCE Alvopetro Energy Ltd.

Release – Pretzelmaker to Open 25 Units in Canada

Posted on October 11, 2023October 11, 2023 by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

Research News and Market Data on FAT

October 11, 2023

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Original Pretzel Bite Franchise Expands Canadian Footprint

LOS ANGELES, Oct. 11, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — FAT (Fresh. Authentic. Tasty.) Brands Inc., parent company of Pretzelmaker and 17 other restaurant concepts, announces a development deal to open 25 new franchised locations in Canada in partnership with Canadian Cookie Enterprises, Inc. The Pretzelmaker locations will open throughout the country over the next 10 years.

“Canadian Cookie Enterprises, Inc. has proven to be an integral expansion partner for Pretzelmaker in Canada throughout the past two decades,” said Taylor Wiederhorn, Chief Development Officer of FAT Brands. “Building on their existing footprint of 52 Canadian units, we are pleased to finalize a new development agreement to build 25 additional locations throughout the country. This growth underscores our dedication to international growth as we continue to scale the Pretzelmaker brand.”

Since getting its start in 1991 as a single pretzel stand, fans have loved snacking on fresh-baked, hand-rolled Pretzel Bites and sipping on fresh-squeezed, all-natural lemonade.

For more information on Pretzelmaker, visit www.pretzelmaker.com.

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About FAT (Fresh. Authentic. Tasty.) Brands
FAT Brands (NASDAQ: FAT) is a leading global franchising company that strategically acquires, markets, and develops fast casual, quick-service, casual dining, and polished casual dining concepts around the world. The Company currently owns 18 restaurant brands: Round Table Pizza, Fatburger, Marble Slab Creamery, Johnny Rockets, Fazoli’s, Twin Peaks, Great American Cookies, Hot Dog on a Stick, Buffalo’s Cafe & Express, Hurricane Grill & Wings, Pretzelmaker, Elevation Burger, Smokey Bones, Native Grill & Wings, Yalla Mediterranean and Ponderosa and Bonanza Steakhouses, and franchises and owns over 2,300 units worldwide. For more information on FAT Brands, please visit www.fatbrands.com.

About Pretzelmaker ®
Since its first stand opened in 1991, Pretzelmaker has been the home of Bite-Sized Fun and Full-Sized Flavor. Best known as the innovator of Pretzel Bites, fresh goes into Pretzelmaker’s entire philosophy – from hand-rolled snacks to all-natural lemonade. Whether swinging by to grab a to-go order or having a sit-down meal, Pretzelmaker is where joy gets made. Pretzelmaker has grown into the second-largest soft pretzel concept in the U.S., with over 280 locations worldwide, and continues to innovate with breakfast, late-night and standalone drive-thru concepts. For more information, visit www.pretzelmaker.com .

Forward Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including statements relating to the timing and performance of new store openings. Forward-looking statements reflect expectations of FAT Brands Inc. (“we”, “our” or the “Company”) concerning the future and are subject to significant business, economic and competitive risks, uncertainties and contingencies. These factors are difficult to predict and beyond our control, and could cause our actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in such forward-looking statements. We refer you to the documents that we file from time to time with the Securities and Exchange Commission, such as our reports on Form 10-K, Form 10-Q and Form 8-K, for a discussion of these and other factors. We undertake no obligation to update any forward-looking statement to reflect events or circumstances occurring after the date of this press release.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Ali Lloyd, FAT Brands
alloyd@fatbrands.com
435-760-6168

Source: FAT Brands Inc.

Release – PDS Biotech Announces Interim Safety and Immune Response Data from Phase 1/2 Clinical Trial Evaluating Novel Antibody Drug Conjugate PDS0301 Combined with Docetaxel to Treat Metastatic Prostate Cancer

Posted on October 11, 2023October 11, 2023 by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

Research News and Market Data on PDSB

First study of patients with metastatic prostate cancer to evaluate standard-of-care chemotherapy (docetaxel) combined with an antibody drug conjugate (PDS0301).
Decrease in prostate specific antigen (PSA) levels was seen in all patients at all three tested doses of PDS0301.
The combination was well-tolerated at all tested dose levels.
Data to be presented by National Cancer Institute as an oral presentation at Cytokines 2023.

PRINCETON, N.J., Oct. 11, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — PDS Biotechnology Corporation (Nasdaq: PDSB) (PDS Biotech or the Company), a clinical-stage immunotherapy company developing a growing pipeline of targeted cancer immunotherapies and infectious disease vaccines based on the Company’s proprietary T cell activating platforms, today announced interim safety and immune response data for the first-in-human Phase 1/2 clinical trial evaluating PDS0301, a novel investigational tumor-targeting, antibody-conjugated Interleukin 12, in combination with current standard-of-care (SOC) chemotherapy, docetaxel, to treat metastatic castration sensitive (mCSPC) and castration resistant (mCRPC) prostate cancer. The data will be featured in an oral presentation by Ravi A. Madan, MD, Head, Prostate Cancer Clinical Research Section, Genitourinary Malignancies Branch, Center for Cancer Research of the National Cancer Institute, an Institute of the National Institutes of Health, at the 11^th Annual Meeting of the International Cytokine & Interferon Society (Cytokines 2023) in Athens, Greece.

“We are encouraged by the preliminary data from the Phase 1/2 clinical trial evaluating PDS0301 in combination with docetaxel for patients with metastatic prostate cancer which has the potential to improve treatment outcomes for patients with advanced and refractory prostate cancers that have spread to other parts of the body,” said Lauren V. Wood, MD, Chief Medical Officer of PDS Biotech.

Eighteen patients (11 with mCSPC and 7 with mCRPC) with a median age of 69 years (range 39-82) were evaluated for clinical activity and toxicity. Three dose levels of PDS0301 (8.0 mcg/kg, 12.0 mcg/kg, and 16.8 mcg/kg) in combination with docetaxel (75 mg/m²) were administered every three weeks beginning with the second cycle of treatment. The dose-limiting toxicity (DLT) window spanned the 6 weeks after initiating docetaxel. While all doses of PDS0301 were well-tolerated, the 12.0 mcg/kg dose of PDS0301 with chemotherapy provided the best combination of immune response and tolerability.

Interim data highlights to be presented at Cytokines 2023 include:

Decrease in PSA levels was seen in all patients at all three tested doses of PDS0301 and ranged from -4% to -100%.
All doses of the combination were well-tolerated with one patient experiencing Grade 4 neutropenia.
Administration of the combination was associated with decreases in T reg cells and increases in activated natural killer (NK) cells, memory CD8 T cells, proliferating CD4 and CD8 T cells and cytokines INF-γ and Interleukin 10 (IL-10).
The changes in immune responses with the combination were independent of the PDS0301 dose.

“The interim data show that adding PDS0301 to docetaxel was associated with increases in peripheral activated natural killer cells, central memory CD8, proliferating CD4 and CD8 cells in addition to cytokines interferon-gamma and Interleukin 10 as well as decreases in T regulatory cells,” said Frank Bedu-Addo, PhD, President and Chief Executive Officer of PDS Biotech. “As the first clinical study to evaluate docetaxel and an immunocytokine, we were pleased to see that the combination can be administered every 3 weeks and look forward to its continued evaluation and impact on clinical outcomes for the treatment of metastatic prostate cancer.”

For patients interested in enrolling in this clinical trial, please contact NCI’s toll-free number: 1-800-4-Cancer (1-800-422-6237) (TTY: 1-800-332-8615), email NCIMO_referrals@mail.nih.gov, or visit https://trials.cancer.gov using the identifier NCT04633252.

About PDS0301
PDS0301 is a novel investigational tumor-targeting antibody drug conjugate of Interleukin 12 (IL-12) that enhances the proliferation, potency and longevity of T cells and natural killer (NK) cells in the tumor microenvironment. PDS0301 is given by subcutaneous injection and is designed to improve the safety profile of IL-12 and to enhance the anti-tumor response.

About PDS Biotechnology
PDS Biotech is a clinical-stage immunotherapy company developing a growing pipeline of targeted cancer and infectious disease immunotherapies based on our proprietary Versamune^®, Versamune^® plus PDS0301, and Infectimune^® T cell-activating platforms. We believe our targeted immunotherapies have the potential to overcome the limitations of current immunotherapy approaches through the activation of the right type, quantity and potency of T cells. To date, our lead Versamune^® clinical candidate, PDS0101, has demonstrated the ability to reduce and shrink tumors and stabilize disease in combination with approved and investigational therapeutics in patients with a broad range of HPV16-associated cancers in multiple Phase 2 clinical trials and will be advancing into a Phase 3 clinical trial in combination with KEYTRUDA^® for the treatment of recurrent/metastatic HPV16-positive head and neck cancer in 2023. Our Infectimune^® based vaccines have also demonstrated the potential to induce not only robust and durable neutralizing antibody responses, but also powerful T cell responses, including long-lasting memory T cell responses in pre-clinical studies to date. To learn more, please visit www.pdsbiotech.com or follow us on Twitter at @PDSBiotech.

Forward Looking Statements
This communication contains forward-looking statements (including within the meaning of Section 21E of the United States Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and Section 27A of the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended) concerning PDS Biotechnology Corporation (the “Company”) and other matters. These statements may discuss goals, intentions and expectations as to future plans, trends, events, results of operations or financial condition, or otherwise, based on current beliefs of the Company’s management, as well as assumptions made by, and information currently available to, management. Forward-looking statements generally include statements that are predictive in nature and depend upon or refer to future events or conditions, and include words such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “would,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “plan,” “likely,” “believe,” “estimate,” “project,” “intend,” “forecast,” “guidance”, “outlook” and other similar expressions among others. Forward-looking statements are based on current beliefs and assumptions that are subject to risks and uncertainties and are not guarantees of future performance. Actual results could differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement as a result of various factors, including, without limitation: the Company’s ability to protect its intellectual property rights; the Company’s anticipated capital requirements, including the Company’s anticipated cash runway and the Company’s current expectations regarding its plans for future equity financings; the Company’s dependence on additional financing to fund its operations and complete the development and commercialization of its product candidates, and the risks that raising such additional capital may restrict the Company’s operations or require the Company to relinquish rights to the Company’s technologies or product candidates; the Company’s limited operating history in the Company’s current line of business, which makes it difficult to evaluate the Company’s prospects, the Company’s business plan or the likelihood of the Company’s successful implementation of such business plan; the timing for the Company or its partners to initiate the planned clinical trials for PDS0101, PDS0203 and other Versamune^® and Infectimune^® based product candidates; the future success of such trials; the successful implementation of the Company’s research and development programs and collaborations, including any collaboration studies concerning PDS0101, PDS0203 and other Versamune^® and Infectimune^® based product candidates and the Company’s interpretation of the results and findings of such programs and collaborations and whether such results are sufficient to support the future success of the Company’s product candidates; the success, timing and cost of the Company’s ongoing clinical trials and anticipated clinical trials for the Company’s current product candidates, including statements regarding the timing of initiation, pace of enrollment and completion of the trials (including the Company’s ability to fully fund its disclosed clinical trials, which assumes no material changes to the Company’s currently projected expenses), futility analyses, presentations at conferences and data reported in an abstract, and receipt of interim or preliminary results (including, without limitation, any preclinical results or data), which are not necessarily indicative of the final results of the Company’s ongoing clinical trials; any Company statements about its understanding of product candidates mechanisms of action and interpretation of preclinical and early clinical results from its clinical development programs and any collaboration studies; and other factors, including legislative, regulatory, political and economic developments not within the Company’s control. The foregoing review of important factors that could cause actual events to differ from expectations should not be construed as exhaustive and should be read in conjunction with statements that are included herein and elsewhere, including the other risks, uncertainties, and other factors described under “Risk Factors,” “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and elsewhere in the documents we file with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. The forward-looking statements are made only as of the date of this press release and, except as required by applicable law, the Company undertakes no obligation to revise or update any forward-looking statement, or to make any other forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. 

Versamune^® and Infectimune^® are registered trademarks of PDS Biotechnology Corporation. KEYTRUDA^® is a registered trademark of Merck Sharp and Dohme LLC, a subsidiary of Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, N.J., USA.

Investor Contact:
Rich Cockrell
CG Capital
Phone: +1 (404) 736-3838
Email: pdsb@cg.capital

Media Contact:
Gina Cestari
6 Degrees
Phone: +1 (917) 797-7904
Email: gcestari@6degreespr.com

Release – ISG Women in Digital Award Winners Named for Asia Pacific and India

Posted on October 11, 2023October 11, 2023 by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

Research News and Market Data on III

10/11/2023

Leaders with ANZ Group Holdings, Australia Post, Silverlake Axis, Tech Mahindra and VicRoads named winners in five award categories

STAMFORD, Conn.–(BUSINESS WIRE)– Information Services Group (ISG) (Nasdaq: III), a leading global technology research and advisory firm, today announced the winners of the first ISG Women in Digital Awards program for the Asia Pacific region, including India, recognizing women and their achievements in the digital world.

At a live, virtual award ceremony earlier today, leaders with ANZ Group Holdings, Australia Post, Silverlake Axis, Tech Mahindra and VicRoads were honored as winners in five categories, as selected by a panel of industry judges.

“In our inaugural year for Asia Pacific and India, the ISG Women in Digital Awards program received more than one hundred nominations of exceptional women who are changing the face of the digital economy in this region,” said Scott Bertsch, ISG partner and regional leader, ISG Asia Pacific, and executive sponsor of ISG Women in Digital in Asia Pacific. “All nominees, and each woman recognized with an award, are making unique and impactful contributions to advancing digital business in this part of the world, and we are delighted to celebrate their success.”

An independent panel of judges, comprised of Jenny Watson, senior director of technology for health insurance and business services, Bupa; Kaylene O’Brien, managing director, Capgemini Australia and New Zealand, and Namratha Dharshan, chief business leader, ISG Research, evaluated the nominations and selected the following winners:

Rising Star: for demonstrating exceptional and continuous growth, with increasing levels of leadership, responsibility and sphere of impact:

Gold Winner: Cassandra Goh, deputy CEO, Silverlake Axis

Silver Winner: Deepti Kakkar Wadhwa, associate director, Cognizant

Bronze Winner : Sindhura Guturu, Agile project manager LTIMindtree

Women’s Advocate: for playing an active role guiding women to succeed in the digital world:

Gold Winner: Grace Zielinski, director, technology operations, VicRoads

Silver Winner : Kavita Kapoor, chief financial officer, Quinnox

Bronze Winner : Kate Hickman, chief people officer, Infoxchange

Digital Innovator: for making a significant impact on an organization, business or client through creative use of digital solutions:

Gold Winner: Sweta Mehra, chief marketing officer, ANZ Group Holdings

Silver Winner: Keerthi Harikrishnan, domain expert, Health Care and Life Sciences, Innovation Labs, Persistent

Bronze Winner: Yashu Singh, senior product owner, Commonwealth Bank

Rock Star Leader: for leading a major transformation with significant business impact and demonstrating exceptional leadership skills:

Gold Winner: Dhanashree Bhat, chief delivery officer, Comms, Media and Technology, Tech Mahindra

Silver Winner: Madhu Gaur, senior vice president, customer success, Quinnox

Bronze Winner: Simmi Dhamija, chief operating officer (APMEA), Wipro

Sharbani Dhar, director of design and digital accessibility at Australia Post, was chosen by the judges as the Digital Titan of the Year for Asia Pacific and India from the entire pool of regional nominees, recognizing her as the most outstanding woman in digital in the region for 2023.

The awards program, launched in the Americas in 2022, was expanded for 2023 to the Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) and Asia Pacific regions, including India. The global program received a total of 327 nominees, who are listed in an online ISG Women in Digital eBook. Awards for EMEA will be presented October 26, at 6 p.m., GMT. Awards for the Americas were presented on September 7.

“Women are breaking barriers and making lasting, positive changes in digital and technology leadership roles,” said Kimberly Tobias, ISG director and head of the ISG Women in Digital program. “We are honored to recognize the success of each person nominated. Congratulations to our 2023 winners.”

Created in 2018, the ISG Women in Digital community provides a platform to exchange practical advice and innovative ideas on diversity and advancement in the workplace. The community hosts a LinkedIn page, an ongoing ISG Digital Dish podcast series, and regular events for ISG employees and the greater IT and business services industry.

For more information about the ISG Women in Digital Awards, contact ISG.

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.

The FOMC Minutes Show Officials Divided on Need for More Rate Hikes

Posted on October 11, 2023October 11, 2023 by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

The Federal Reserve released the full minutes from its pivotal September policy meeting on Wednesday, providing critical behind-the-scenes insight into how officials view the path ahead for monetary policy.

The minutes highlighted a growing divergence of opinions within the Fed over whether additional large interest rate hikes are advisable or if it’s time to ease off the brakes. This debate reflects the balancing act the central bank faces between taming still-high inflation and avoiding tipping the economy into recession.

No Agreement on Further Tightening

The September gathering concluded with the Fed voting to lift rates by 0.75 percentage point for the third straight meeting, taking the federal funds target range to 3-3.25%. This brought total rate increases to 300 basis points since March as the Fed plays catch up to curb demand and cool price pressures.

However, the minutes revealed central bankers were split regarding what comes next. They noted “many participants” judged another similar-sized hike would likely be appropriate at upcoming meetings. But “some participants” expressed reservations about further rate increases, instead preferring to monitor incoming data and exercise optionality.

Markets are currently pricing in an additional 75 basis point hike at the Fed’s December meeting, which would fulfill the desires of the hawkish camp. But nothing is guaranteed, with Fed Chair Jerome Powell emphasizing policy will be determined meeting-by-meeting based on the dataflow.

Concerns Over Slowing Growth, Jobs

According to the minutes, officials in favor of maintaining an aggressive policy stance cited inflation remaining well above the Fed’s 2% goal. The labor market also remains extremely tight, with 1.7 job openings for every unemployed person in August.

On the flip side, officials hesitant about more hikes mentioned that monetary policy already appears restrictive thanks to higher borrowing costs and diminished liquidity in markets. Some also voiced concerns over economic growth slowing more abruptly than anticipated along with rising joblessness.

The consumer price index rose 8.3% in August compared to a year ago, only slightly lower than July’s 40-year peak of 8.5%. However, the Fed pays close attention to the services and wage growth components which indicate whether inflation will be persistent.

Data Dependency is the Mantra

The minutes emphasized Fed officials have coalesced around being nimble and reacting to the data rather than sticking to a predefined rate hike plan. Members concurred they can “proceed carefully” and adjust policy moves depending on how inflation metrics evolve.

Markets and economists will closely monitor upcoming October and November inflation reports, including wage growth and inflation expectations, to determine if Fed policy is gaining traction. Moderating housing costs will be a key tell.

Officials also agreed rates should remain restrictive “for some time” until clear evidence emerges that inflation is on a sustainable path back to the 2% target. Markets are pricing in rate cuts in late 2023, but the Fed wants to avoid a premature policy reversal.

While Americans continue opening their wallets, officials observed many households now show signs of financial strain. Further Fed tightening could jeopardize growth and jobs, arguments made by dovish members.

All About Inflation

At the end of the day, the Fed’s policy decisions will come down to the inflation data. If price pressures continue slowly cooling, the case for further large hikes diminishes given the policy lags.

But if inflation remains sticky and elevated, particularly in the services sector or wage growth, hawks will maintain the pressure to keep raising rates aggressively. This uncertainty means volatility is likely in store for investors.

For now, the Fed is split between officials who want to maintain an aggressive tightening pace and those worried about going too far. With risks rising on both sides, Chairman Powell has his work cut out for him in charting the appropriate policy course.

RCI Hospitality Holdings (RICK) – Preliminary 4Q Revenue Below Expectations

Posted on October 11, 2023October 11, 2023 by cpereira@noblefcm.com

Wednesday, October 11, 2023

With more than 60 units, RCI Hospitality Holdings, Inc., through its subsidiaries, is the country’s leading company in adult nightclubs and sports bars/restaurants. Clubs in New York City, Chicago, Dallas-Fort Worth, Houston, Miami, Minneapolis, Denver, St. Louis, Charlotte, Pittsburgh, Raleigh, Louisville, and other markets operate under brand names such as Rick’s Cabaret, XTC, Club Onyx, Vivid Cabaret, Jaguars Club, Tootsie’s Cabaret, Scarlett’s Cabaret, Diamond Cabaret, and PT’s Showclub. Sports bars/restaurants operate under the brand name Bombshells Restaurant & Bar.

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.

4Q23 Club and Restaurant Sales. RCI reported sales for the Nightclubs and Bombshells restaurants of $74.1 million for the fiscal fourth quarter ended September 30th. This is a 5.6% y-o-y increase, driven by acquisitions which was partially offset by a decline in Same Store Sales across both segments. We had projected full revenue for the quarter of $78.3 million and consensus was $78.1 million. Recall the $74.1 million does not include non-core operations, which typically can add some $0.5-$1.0 million to the final quarterly total.

Nightclubs. Revenue rose 7.5%, y-o-y, or $4.2 million, to $60.5 million, with acquisitions adding $9.2 million and reformatted clubs adding $0.8 million. Segment SSS declined 9.6%, an increase over the 7.3% SSS decline in 3Q23. Part of the SSS decline reflects the last “COVID bounce” the Nightclubs experienced in the year ago quarter when y-o-y revenue rose 40.4%.

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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).