Category: Tech

Circle Targets Nearly $6 Billion Valuation in Landmark Stablecoin IPO

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com
Key Points:
– Circle launches IPO to raise $624M, targeting a $5.65B valuation amid stablecoin growth.
– USDC’s market cap has surged 40% in 2025, driven by rising demand and pending U.S. regulation.
– Cathie Wood’s ARK and Coinbase stand to benefit as Circle eyes wider institutional adoption.

Circle, the fintech firm behind the widely-used USDC stablecoin, has officially launched its long-anticipated initial public offering (IPO), aiming to raise approximately $624 million. The move would value the company at around $5.65 billion — and closer to $6.7 billion when including outstanding shares and options — marking a pivotal moment for both Circle and the broader digital asset space.

The offering includes 24 million shares of Class A common stock, priced between $24 and $26 per share. Of those, Circle itself will sell 9.6 million, while existing shareholders are offloading the remaining 14.4 million. The shares will trade under the ticker CRCL on the New York Stock Exchange, giving traditional investors direct exposure to one of the most influential players in the crypto ecosystem.

Founded in 2018, Circle’s signature product, USD Coin (USDC), is now the second-largest stablecoin in the world, with around $62 billion in circulation — roughly 27% of the total stablecoin market. It trails only Tether (USDT), which holds a 67% share. However, USDC has outpaced its rival in growth this year, boasting a 40% increase in market cap compared to Tether’s 10%, according to CryptoQuant.

The IPO comes at a strategic inflection point for the crypto industry, as U.S. lawmakers move closer to passing the first major federal legislation aimed at stablecoins. Last week, the Senate advanced a regulatory bill that would establish clear guidelines for their issuance and oversight. Former President Donald Trump, now back in office, has voiced strong support for crypto regulation and stated his desire to sign a stablecoin-focused bill before the August recess.

A significant backer of Circle’s IPO is ARK Investment Management, led by Cathie Wood, which has signaled interest in purchasing up to $150 million worth of shares — a vote of confidence in Circle’s future and stablecoin utility.

The IPO is also expected to have notable ripple effects for Coinbase, a co-founder of USDC and one of its primary distribution channels. Coinbase and Circle maintain a 50/50 revenue-sharing agreement on USDC, and the crypto exchange earns 100% of the interest income generated by USDC-based products on its platform. Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong has called making USDC the world’s top stablecoin a “stretch goal” for the company.

Beyond trading and DeFi use cases, USDC and other stablecoins have increasingly been recognized for their ability to move U.S. dollars quickly and inexpensively across borders. This functionality is attracting attention from fintech firms, traditional banks, and policymakers alike — especially as global conversations around preserving U.S. dollar dominance intensify.

With its IPO, Circle isn’t just going public — it’s stepping into the spotlight as a central player in the next era of global finance.

Google Teams Up with Warby Parker and Gentle Monster to Launch AI-Powered Smart Glasses

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com
Key Points:
– Google partners with Warby Parker, Gentle Monster, and Samsung to develop Android XR smart glasses powered by Gemini AI.
– Features include in-lens displays, cameras, real-time translation, and smartphone integration.
– The move sets up a new front in the wearables race against Meta and Apple

Google is reentering the smart glasses race with renewed focus and fresh partners. At its annual Google I/O conference in Mountain View, California, the tech giant announced partnerships with eyewear brands Warby Parker and Gentle Monster to create stylish, AI-powered smart glasses. The company is also expanding its collaboration with Samsung into the realm of intelligent eyewear, building on their joint efforts in augmented reality.

Unlike the tech-heavy and socially awkward Google Glass of 2013, Google’s new smart glasses aim to blend cutting-edge functionality with fashion-forward design. Set to run on the new Android XR operating system, the glasses will include features like turn-by-turn navigation, real-time translation, camera-enabled photography, hands-free calling, and seamless integration with apps—all delivered through the company’s Gemini AI platform.

In a direct challenge to Meta’s Ray-Ban Meta glasses, Google’s new offering will pair with smartphones and be equipped with microphones, speakers, and optional in-lens displays. These displays will allow users to access information such as text messages or directions without pulling out their phone. While the glasses will still rely on smartphones for processing and connectivity, they mark a significant leap in the evolution of wearable tech.

“This new wave of smart glasses is about combining form and function,” said Rick Osterloh, Google’s SVP of Devices & Services. “By working with top eyewear designers, we’re making sure these devices are not only useful, but also something people will want to wear every day.”

Importantly, Google says it will begin working with developers and testers later this year to fine-tune the technology, especially in terms of privacy and usability—areas that proved problematic for the original Google Glass. That early attempt, which cost $1,500 and looked like something out of a sci-fi film, failed to gain traction with mainstream consumers, partly due to design and partly due to discomfort around being unknowingly recorded.

Today’s consumers, however, are more acclimated to cameras in public spaces, and the success of Meta’s more discreet Ray-Ban glasses shows the market may finally be ready for smart eyewear—if it looks good and works well.

The resurgence of interest in smart glasses comes amid a broader push by tech giants to identify the next big hardware platform after the smartphone. Google is also involved in Samsung’s Project Moohan, an AR/VR headset co-developed with Qualcomm, signaling its broader ambitions in the spatial computing space.

Apple is rumored to be working on its own smart glasses, though Bloomberg reports they may not launch until 2027. That gives Google and Meta time to shape the market—and consumer expectations.

While smart glasses are unlikely to replace smartphones overnight, they are becoming a serious contender in the next phase of personal technology. The challenge now is whether Google, this time with the right design and timing, can finally succeed where Google Glass stumbled—and convince the world to put computers on their faces.

Codere Online (CDRO) – Mexican Metrics Drive Favorable Results

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com


Monday, May 19, 2025

Codere Online refers, collectively, to Codere Online Luxembourg, S.A. and its subsidiaries. Codere Online launched in 2014 as part of the renowned casino operator Codere Group. Codere Online offers online sports betting and online casino through its state-of-the art website and mobile application. Codere currently operates in its core markets of Spain, Italy, Mexico, Colombia, Panama and the City of Buenos Aires (Argentina). Codere Online’s online business is complemented by Codere Group’s physical presence throughout Latin America, forming the foundation of the leading omnichannel gaming and casino presence in the region.

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

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

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

Solid start to the year. First quarter revenues increased a solid 7.5% to €57.0 million, beating our €55.0 million estimate, in spite of currency headwinds. On a constant currency basis, revenues would have increased a strong 17%. Adj. EBITDA of €1.8 million, was slightly better than our €1.4 million estimate. 

Maintain full year 2025 estimates, tweaking upward 2026 estimates. Management reiterated revenue and adj. EBITDA guidance for the full year 2025. We anticipate that revenues will accelerate to the high single digits to the low double digits in the third and fourth quarter, respectively. We are tweaking upward our full year 2026 revenue and adj. EBITDA estimates on the the favorable momentum in Mexico and prospects for lower marketing spend. 


Get the Full Report

Equity Research is available at no cost to Registered users of Channelchek. Not a Member? Click ‘Join’ to join the Channelchek Community. There is no cost to register, and we never collect credit card information.

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

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

Bit Digital (BTBT) – Reports 1Q25 Results

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com


Monday, May 19, 2025

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.

1Q25 Overview. Bit Digital’s first quarter results were affected by mark-to-market losses on digital assets and lower bitcoin mining revenue, both of which reflected industry-wide headwinds and the strategic rebalancing of the business. The Company continued to make meaningful progress in scaling the infrastructure platform and diversifying revenue streams.

1Q25 Results. Revenue of $25.1 million was down 17% y-o-y as digital asset mining revenue fell 64%, while cloud services revenue jumped 84%. We were at $24.8 million. Driven by $49.3 million of mark-to-market losses on digital assets, Bit Digital reported a net loss of $57.7 million, or $0.32/sh, compared to a loss of $11.9 million, or $0.09/sh, last year. We projected a loss of $13.1 million, or $0.07/sh.


Get the Full Report

Equity Research is available at no cost to Registered users of Channelchek. Not a Member? Click ‘Join’ to join the Channelchek Community. There is no cost to register, and we never collect credit card information.

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

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

Tech IPO Market Stirs Back to Life After Years of Drought

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com
Key Points:
IPO Market Rebounds: eToro and CoreWeave spark renewed tech IPO momentum.
Startups Move Ahead: Chime and Hinge Health revive public debut plans.
AI & Fintech Lead: These sectors drive the IPO resurgence despite market uncertainty.

After several years of stagnation, the tech IPO market is finally showing signs of revival. Recent successful listings from high-profile companies like eToro and CoreWeave, coupled with a growing pipeline of IPO-ready startups, have rekindled optimism among venture capitalists and retail investors alike.

Earlier this week, eToro, the social trading and brokerage platform based in Israel, made a striking debut on the Nasdaq. Its stock surged nearly 29% after pricing above the expected range—a strong signal that investor appetite for new tech listings may be returning. The timing was crucial. Just weeks ago, uncertainty stemming from President Trump’s abrupt tariff policy had cast a shadow over the broader market and cooled IPO ambitions.

Adding further momentum, CoreWeave, an AI infrastructure company, posted a remarkable 420% revenue increase in its first earnings report since going public in March. The company’s stock has more than doubled in value since its IPO, reflecting sustained investor enthusiasm for artificial intelligence and cloud infrastructure plays. According to PitchBook and the National Venture Capital Association, nearly 40% of Q1 venture capital exit value came from CoreWeave’s listing alone.

This rebound, however, comes after a long dry spell. Since early 2022, startups across fintech, health tech, and enterprise software have largely stayed private, waiting for more favorable conditions. The brief optimism earlier this year was quickly dampened when the Trump administration’s surprise tariff announcement in April rattled the markets. In response, companies like Klarna and StubHub shelved their IPO plans.

But with the administration now pausing its most aggressive tariff measures for 90 days, confidence is starting to return. Fintech company Chime filed its IPO prospectus this week, having delayed its plans due to the earlier tariff-driven volatility. Similarly, digital health firm Omada Health submitted its filing last week.

Next week, all eyes will be on Hinge Health, a virtual physical therapy platform. The company updated its IPO filing with a pricing range of $28–$32, potentially valuing it at $2.4 billion. This offering will be an important litmus test for investor sentiment toward the digital health sector, which boomed during the pandemic but has since seen growth slow.

Meanwhile, Cerebras, a chipmaker focused on AI hardware, has finally cleared regulatory hurdles and is preparing to go public later this year. The move reflects strong demand in the AI space, even as regulatory and geopolitical risks linger.

There are also notable shifts in the digital asset space. Galaxy Digital, originally listed in Canada due to U.S. regulatory hesitance toward crypto, has now moved its shares to the Nasdaq in a bid to access a broader investor base.

Despite these encouraging signs, experts remain cautious. Ernst & Young’s Rachel Gerring believes the IPO market is “trending in the right direction,” but warns that volatility and geopolitical risks could still stall momentum. Many startups are being advised to focus on readiness rather than timing, ensuring they can launch when conditions are ideal.

For now, the market is showing signs of life. But whether this marks the start of a sustained comeback or another false dawn remains to be seen.

Databricks Acquires Neon for $1 Billion to Supercharge AI-Native Applications

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com
Key Points:
– Databricks acquires Postgres-based startup Neon to enhance support for AI-native applications.
– Neon’s automated, serverless database tools are designed for fast, scalable, agent-based deployment.
– The deal reflects growing demand for intelligent infrastructure to support next-gen AI workloads.

Databricks, a leader in data analytics and artificial intelligence infrastructure, has announced the acquisition of Neon, a cloud-native Postgres startup, for approximately $1 billion. The deal marks a strategic push to strengthen Databricks’ capabilities in the realm of serverless databases—an area increasingly critical for the deployment of AI agents and intelligent applications.

Neon, founded in 2021, has quickly gained attention for its open-source, developer-friendly approach to relational databases. It offers a cloud-based, fully managed Postgres platform with features such as dynamic scaling, database branching for safe testing, and point-in-time recovery. These capabilities are particularly well-suited to AI-driven workloads, where systems operate faster than humans and require scalable, real-time data access.

A growing trend among AI platforms is the use of agentic software—automated tools and bots that create and manage back-end resources such as databases without human intervention. In recent telemetry data, a substantial majority of database instances on Neon’s platform were created by AI agents rather than developers. This level of automation underscores a shift in software development, where applications are increasingly built and operated by other pieces of code.

By integrating Neon’s technology, Databricks aims to provide a serverless Postgres solution that can meet the demands of AI-driven systems—particularly in areas like model training, automated testing, and scalable deployment. This also aligns with Databricks’ broader strategy of building an end-to-end ecosystem for AI development, from data ingestion to inference and monitoring.

Neon has attracted significant investor interest in a short period, raising $129.6 million from notable backers including Microsoft’s venture arm, General Catalyst, and Menlo Ventures. The acquisition is also consistent with Databricks’ recent moves, including its 2023 purchase of MosaicML and its more recent acquisition of Tabular—both aimed at expanding its reach in AI infrastructure.

For investors, this deal highlights the growing strategic value of early-stage platforms that support intelligent automation and scalable deployment. Neon’s focus on usability, flexibility, and cost efficiency made it a compelling target in a space where performance and developer speed are paramount.

Databricks’ continued investment in infrastructure optimized for AI suggests that the next wave of competition in tech won’t just be about the power of models—but about the speed, efficiency, and intelligence of the tools that support them. As the AI ecosystem evolves, companies offering agile, cloud-native tools for developers are becoming key pillars in the digital economy.

This acquisition reinforces the idea that AI-native infrastructure is now core to software innovation, and investors should be watching closely as these capabilities shape the future of development.

IonQ Acquires Capella Space to Build Quantum-Secure Satellite Network

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com
Key Points:
– IonQ has agreed to acquire Capella Space to accelerate its development of a global quantum key distribution (QKD) network.
– Capella’s radar imaging satellites will help enable space-based secure communication for defense and commercial sectors.
– The acquisition follows IonQ’s broader strategy to dominate quantum networking through vertical integration and space-based infrastructure

Quantum computing firm IonQ is doubling down on its ambitions in secure communication. On Wednesday, the Maryland-based company announced a deal to acquire Capella Space, a satellite imaging firm known for its synthetic aperture radar (SAR) technology, in a move designed to supercharge its push into quantum networking.

The acquisition marks a pivotal moment for IonQ, as it shifts from primarily offering quantum computing solutions to developing a space-based quantum key distribution (QKD) network. QKD is seen as essential for enabling unhackable communication channels in a future where classical encryption could be rendered obsolete by quantum computers.

Capella, based in San Francisco, operates four commercial satellites that collect high-resolution X-band SAR imagery, useful for intelligence, disaster response, and maritime surveillance. The company has additional satellite launches planned for this year, which will expand its imaging capabilities and support IonQ’s space-to-space and space-to-ground QKD efforts.

According to IonQ CEO Niccolo de Masi, the acquisition will “deepen and accelerate IonQ’s quantum networking leadership” by combining Capella’s satellite infrastructure with IonQ’s quantum technologies. “We have an exceptional opportunity to accelerate our vision for the quantum internet,” he said.

In addition to providing satellite assets, Capella also brings a valuable facility security clearance, enabling closer collaboration with U.S. defense and intelligence agencies—key customers for quantum-secure communications.

The Capella deal is the latest in a string of strategic moves by IonQ. Earlier this year, it acquired Qubitekk, a specialist in quantum networking, and Lightsynq Technologies, a startup founded by former Harvard researchers focused on quantum memory. IonQ has also signed a memorandum of understanding with Intellian Technologies, a satellite hardware manufacturer, to explore integrating quantum networking into future satellite ground systems.

Capella CEO Frank Backes echoed the enthusiasm, saying the integration of Capella’s radar imaging with IonQ’s quantum computing would enhance global defense and commercial missions through “ultra-secure environments.”

The transaction, expected to close in the second half of 2025 pending regulatory approval, continues a trend of quantum-tech consolidation as players position themselves to meet anticipated demand for secure communications in both government and private sectors. As cyber threats grow and classical encryption ages, the ability to offer end-to-end quantum-secure channels—especially via space infrastructure—may become a competitive necessity.

IonQ’s aggressive strategy has drawn investor interest, with its stock gaining momentum in recent weeks. As the quantum industry matures, vertical integration—spanning hardware, software, and infrastructure—is becoming increasingly critical.

If successful, IonQ’s vision for a global quantum-secure network could reshape how sensitive data is protected and transmitted across borders, laying the groundwork for a new era of secure, quantum-powered communication.

Tripledot Studios Acquires AppLovin’s Gaming Portfolio in $800M Deal, Ascends to Global Gaming Powerhouse

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com
Key Points:
– Tripledot Studios acquires AppLovin’s mobile gaming division for $800 million, expanding its global footprint.
– The deal includes 10 studios and popular titles, boosting Tripledot’s daily active users to over 25 million.
– AppLovin receives a 20% equity stake in Tripledot, signaling a strategic shift towards its core adtech business

In a significant move within the mobile gaming industry, London-based Tripledot Studios has announced the acquisition of AppLovin’s mobile gaming division for approximately $800 million. The transaction, structured as a combination of cash and equity, will see AppLovin become a minority shareholder in Tripledot, holding a 20% stake.

This acquisition encompasses 10 studios and a suite of popular titles, including “Wordscapes,” “Project Makeover,” and “Game of War.” With this expansion, Tripledot’s operational scale will increase to 12 studios across 23 cities, serving over 25 million daily active users and generating nearly $2 billion in annual gross revenue.

Founded in 2017, Tripledot Studios has rapidly ascended in the mobile gaming sector, known for hits like “Woodoku” and “Solitaire.com.” The company’s co-founder and CEO, Lior Shiff, emphasized the strategic importance of this deal, stating, “Acquiring AppLovin’s games portfolio is a big step towards achieving our goal of becoming the world’s most successful mobile game studio.”

For AppLovin, this divestiture marks a strategic pivot towards its core competency in advertising technology. The company, which provides software for app monetization and marketing, reported strong first-quarter earnings, with a 40% year-over-year increase in revenue to $1.48 billion. AppLovin’s CEO, Adam Foroughi, acknowledged the company’s shift, noting, “We’ve never been a game developer at heart,” and expressed confidence in Tripledot’s ability to nurture the acquired studios.

The mobile gaming industry has experienced a slowdown following a pandemic-induced surge, with a 6% decline in downloads last year due to market saturation. Despite these challenges, Tripledot has maintained profitability since its second year of operation, leveraging a diversified portfolio and advertising-driven revenue models.

Analysts view this acquisition as a consolidation move that positions Tripledot among the top-tier independent mobile game companies globally. The deal is expected to close by early summer 2025, pending regulatory approvals. Tripledot plans to invest further in artificial intelligence to enhance game development efficiency and user experience.

Alphabet Stock Plunges as Apple’s Eddy Cue Predicts AI Will Replace Search Engines

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

Alphabet shares dropped more than 8% on Wednesday following comments from Apple’s senior vice president of services, Eddy Cue, who warned that artificial intelligence-powered tools could soon overtake traditional search engines like Google. Cue made the remarks during his testimony in a federal court in Washington, where the Department of Justice is pursuing an antitrust case against Alphabet.

According to reporting from Bloomberg, Cue said he expects that advanced AI services—such as those from OpenAI, Perplexity, and Anthropic—will eventually become key search tools and will likely be added as options in Apple’s Safari browser. The implication is clear: the long-standing dominance of Google in the search space may be approaching a turning point.

The market reaction was swift. Alphabet’s stock tumbled by 7.7%, shaving billions off its market cap, while Apple’s shares dipped by nearly 2%, signaling broader investor concern over the shifting dynamics of the search engine ecosystem.

Cue’s testimony comes at a critical moment. The Justice Department’s lawsuit centers on Google’s dominance in digital advertising and its long-running practice of paying companies—particularly Apple—billions of dollars annually to remain the default search engine on their platforms. In 2022 alone, Google is believed to have paid Apple as much as $20 billion for this privilege.

While the partnership has been lucrative for both tech giants, Cue’s comments suggest cracks are forming. He admitted he’s “lost sleep” over the possibility of Apple losing its massive revenue share from Google, yet he also acknowledged the surge in AI adoption is starting to impact user behavior. In fact, he revealed that search queries in Safari declined in April for the first time—something he attributes to users increasingly turning to generative AI platforms to answer questions and find information.

This trend could reshape the entire search business. If users shift from traditional keyword-based engines to conversational AI tools capable of synthesizing and contextualizing results, Google’s core advertising model—which relies heavily on search traffic—could face existential pressure.

The irony is that Apple, while currently a beneficiary of Google’s dominance through revenue sharing, is now signaling it may contribute to that dominance unraveling. By embracing AI competitors as viable alternatives to Google in Safari, Apple may be preparing for a future in which users prefer personalized, context-rich AI interactions over the standard search box.

The timing also adds pressure to Alphabet as it faces increased regulatory scrutiny and competition. Google has been investing in its own AI initiatives, such as Gemini, but the pace of user migration toward competitors could prove disruptive before Alphabet fully adjusts its strategy.

If Cue is right, and if Safari becomes an open platform for AI-powered search alternatives, the current Google-Apple alliance could evolve—or fracture entirely. The future of search may be less about who owns the default setting and more about who delivers the smartest, most helpful answers.

OpenAI Reverses Course: Nonprofit to Retain Control Amid Legal and Public Pressure

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

In a major strategic shift, OpenAI announced Monday that it will no longer pursue a full for-profit transformation and will instead maintain its original nonprofit governance structure. The decision, which follows months of internal and external pressure, reaffirms the organization’s commitment to building artificial general intelligence (AGI) for the benefit of humanity — not just shareholders.

The announcement came in a letter from CEO Sam Altman, who cited conversations with civic leaders and discussions with the Attorneys General of California and Delaware as key factors behind the change. “We made the decision for the nonprofit to stay in control,” Altman wrote, emphasizing a renewed focus on public interest and ethical stewardship of AI technologies like ChatGPT.

OpenAI was originally founded in 2015 as a nonprofit with the ambitious goal of ensuring that AGI — artificial intelligence that can outperform humans across a broad range of tasks — would be developed safely and equitably. Over time, however, the organization layered on a “capped-profit” arm to attract commercial investment and scale operations. That for-profit entity will now be restructured into a public benefit corporation (PBC) — a legally recognized business type that must weigh public impact alongside financial returns.

Bret Taylor, chair of OpenAI’s nonprofit board, clarified that this new structure aims to balance mission and market. “The public benefit corporation model ensures we can grow while staying true to our founding purpose,” he said.

The move comes as OpenAI faces intensifying legal, political, and ethical scrutiny. One major flashpoint is an ongoing lawsuit filed by co-founder Elon Musk, who accused the company and Altman of straying from its original principles. While a federal judge recently dismissed several of Musk’s claims, parts of the case will proceed to trial next year. The lawsuit has amplified a broader debate over whether cutting-edge AI development should be governed by public-interest frameworks or private market incentives.

In addition to legal pressure, OpenAI has come under the microscope from the Attorneys General of California and Delaware — the two jurisdictions where the company operates and is incorporated. Advocacy groups and former employees had petitioned both states’ top law enforcement officials to intervene, arguing that OpenAI’s planned restructuring posed a risk to its charitable mission.

Critics feared a future in which OpenAI — armed with the capability to develop superhuman AI — could shift its focus toward profit maximization at the expense of public safety. These concerns, coupled with growing public reliance on ChatGPT (which now boasts over 400 million weekly users), helped fuel a backlash against the proposed governance changes.

Ultimately, the reversal signals that OpenAI is listening. By recommitting to nonprofit oversight, the company aims to rebuild trust and reinforce its identity as a mission-driven organization — even as it operates at the forefront of one of the world’s most powerful technological revolutions.

Whether this hybrid model can withstand the pressures of a $300 billion valuation and commercial demand remains to be seen. But for now, OpenAI has chosen public accountability over private control — a move that may shape the future of AI governance for years to come.

Release – As Procurement Turns Strategic, Firms Inject AI, Analytics

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

Research News and Market Data on ISG

4/28/2025

Providers play crucial role in modernizing procurement systems for higher transparency, efficiency, resilience, ISG Provider Lens™ report says

STAMFORD, Conn.–(BUSINESS WIRE)– Enterprises are expanding procurement strategies beyond cost reduction, seeking to optimize processes and reduce time to market, according to a new research report published today by Information Services Group (ISG) (Nasdaq: III), a global AI-centered technology research and advisory firm.

The 2025 ISG Provider Lens™ global Procurement Services report finds that procurement is becoming a strategic priority in mitigating risks and ensuring the continuity of supply chains. While wars, geopolitical unrest and rising tariffs have presented a seemingly unending series of disruptions affecting procurement in recent years, innovative companies are finding ways to make procurement a competitive differentiator.

“Enterprises recognize the need to make their procurement processes more efficient, transparent and resilient,” said Robert Stapleton, partner and lead, business process outsourcing for ISG. “At many companies, modern procurement services from leading providers play an important role in these efforts.”

Procurement teams are partnering with service providers to implement new technologies that enhance automation, data analytics and collaboration with suppliers, the report says. These include AI, generative AI, advanced analytics tools and robotic process automation (RPA). Dedicated procurement centers of excellence are developing customized solutions to meet specific enterprise requirements. Over the next 12-24 months, ISG expects companies to increase their use of advanced technologies to refine sourcing practices, enrich user experience and improve supply chain collaboration.

The use of AI and automation is rising alongside other technology trends that are reshaping enterprise procurement, the report says. Companies are using advanced analytics for granular visibility into spending patterns, supplier performance and market conditions. They are also embracing strategic sourcing based on benchmarks and best practices to enhance client-supplier relationships. Proactive risk assessments based on real-time data increase provider reliability in an unstable global environment. Circular economy practices, which improve sustainability by reducing waste, are also an increasingly common part of enterprise procurement strategies.

The use of procurement business process outsourcing (BPO) and managed services continues to grow as enterprises seek more flexible operations, ISG says. Strategic sourcing, spending data management and supplier risk and performance management are among the most common outsourced functions, while procurement technology management and sourcing governance are beginning to gain traction.

“Procurement has the potential to transform supply chain management,” said Jan Erik Aase, partner and global leader, ISG Provider Lens Research. “Enterprises seek services and technology expertise to maximize the value of procurement systems, and providers are stepping up.”

The report also explores other procurement trends affecting enterprises, including the growing need for training to keep pace with technology and the increasing priority placed on cybersecurity in procurement systems.

For more insights into the procurement challenges facing enterprises, plus ISG’s advice for overcoming them, see the ISG Provider Lens™ Focal Points briefing here.

The 2025 ISG Provider Lens™ global Procurement Services report evaluates the capabilities of 28 providers across three quadrants: Procurement Operations Modernization Services, Strategic Sourcing and Category Management Services and Supplier Management and Contract Lifecycle Services.

The report names Accenture, Corcentric, Deloitte, Genpact, GEP, HCLTech, IBM, Infosys, TCS and WNS Procurement as Leaders in all three quadrants. It names Capgemini as a Leader in two quadrants and Tech Mahindra as a Leader in one quadrant.

In addition, Cognizant and Tech Mahindra are named as Rising Stars — companies with a “promising portfolio” and “high future potential” by ISG’s definition — in two quadrants each. ProcureAbility is named as a Rising Star in one quadrant.

In the area of customer experience, Genpact is named the global ISG CX Star Performer for 2025 among Procurement BPO Services providers. Genpact earned the highest customer satisfaction scores in ISG’s Voice of the Customer survey, part of the ISG Star of Excellence™ program, the premier quality recognition for the technology and business services industry.

Customized versions of the report are available from Capgemini, Tech Mahindra and WNS Procurement.

The 2025 ISG Provider Lens™ global Procurement Services report is available to subscribers or for one-time purchase on this webpage.

About ISG Provider Lens™ Research

The ISG Provider Lens™ Quadrant research series is the only service provider evaluation of its kind to combine empirical, data-driven research and market analysis with the real-world experience and observations of ISG’s global advisory team. Enterprises will find a wealth of detailed data and market analysis to help guide their selection of appropriate sourcing partners, while ISG advisors use the reports to validate their own market knowledge and make recommendations to ISG’s enterprise clients. The research currently covers providers offering their services globally, across Europe, as well as in the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Brazil, the U.K., France, Benelux, Germany, Switzerland, the Nordics, Australia and Singapore/Malaysia, with additional markets to be added in the future. For more information about ISG Provider Lens research, please visit this webpage.

About ISG

ISG (Nasdaq: III) is a global AI-centered technology research and advisory firm. A trusted partner to more than 900 clients, including 75 of the world’s top 100 enterprises, ISG is a long-time leader in technology and business services that is now at the forefront of leveraging AI to help organizations achieve operational excellence and faster growth. The firm, founded in 2006, is known for its proprietary market data, in-depth knowledge of provider ecosystems, and the expertise of its 1,600 professionals worldwide working together to help clients maximize the value of their technology investments.

Source: Information Services Group, Inc.View all news

Release – Perfect Corp. Reports Unaudited Financial Results for the Three Months Ended March 31, 2025

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

Research News and Market Data on Perfect

April 28, 2025

NEW YORK–(BUSINESS WIRE)– Perfect Corp. (NYSE: PERF) (“Perfect” or the “Company”), a leading artificial intelligence (“AI”) company offering AI and augmented reality (“AR”) powered solutions to beauty and fashion industries, today announced its unaudited financial results for the three months ended March 31, 2025.

Highlights for the Three Months Ended March 31, 2025

  • Total revenuewas $16.0 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025, compared to $14.3 million in the same period of 2024, an increase of 12.1%. The increase was primarily due to growth momentum in the revenue of AI- and AR- cloud solutions and mobile app and web services subscriptions.
  • Gross profitwas $12.5 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025, compared to $11.2 million in the same period of 2024, an increase of 11.4%.
  • Net income was $2.3 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025, compared to a net income of $0.6 million during the same period of 2024, an increase of 264.0%.
  • Adjusted net income (non-IFRS)1was $2.0 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025, compared to adjusted net income (non-IFRS) of $1.5 million in the same period of 2024, an increase of 33.3%.
  • Operating cash flowwas $4.3 million in the first quarter of 2025, compared to $3.5 million in the same period of 2024, an increase of 22.8%.
  • The number of active subscriber for the Company’s YouCam mobile beauty app and web services was 973,000 as of March 31, 2025, compared to over 902,000 as of March 31, 2024, an increase of 7.9%.
  • As of March 31, 2025, the Company’s cumulative customer base included 801 brand clients, with over 891,000 digital stock keeping units (“SKUs”) for makeup, haircare, skincare, eyewear, watches and jewelry products, compared to 732 brand clients and over 822,000 digital SKUs as of December 31, 2024. The number of Key Customers2of the Company as of March 31, 2025 was 148 compared to 151 as of December 31, 2024. This slight decrease was primarily driven by an increase in churn among North American client as a result of rising financial challenges in the macroeconomic environment.

Ms. Alice H. Chang, the Founder, Chairwoman, and Chief Executive Officer of Perfect commented, “Despite recent macroeconomic uncertainties, we continue to achieve revenue growth, maintain positive net income, generate healthy cash flow, with a robust balance sheet and positive operating cash flow. The consistent performance reflects the resilience of our team and the leadership of our management. By seizing market opportunities and expanding our total addressable market, we are not only attracting new clients but also building a solid foundation for sustained, long-term growth.”

Financial Results for the Three Months Ended March 31, 2025

Revenue

Total revenue was $16.0 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025, compared to $14.3 million in the same period of 2024, an increase of 12.1%.

  • AI- and AR- cloud solutions and subscription revenue was $14.1 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025, compared to $12.4 million in the same period of 2024, an increase of 13.3%. The increase was driven by the growth of YouCam mobile app and web services subscription, stable demand for the Company’s online virtual product try-on solutions from brand customers, and the growing popularity among consumers of Generative AI technologies and AI editing features for photos and videos. The growth in the mobile app and web services subscription revenue was also contributed by the continuous pricing optimization as well as the introduction of higher margin premium subscription plan, featuring enhanced functionality for more advanced Generative AI functionalities.
  • Licensing revenue remains stable at $1.6 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025 and March 31, 2024, respectively. The Company expects the licensing revenue will become increasingly immaterial as it continues to focus on strengthening its market leadership in the consumer beauty and AI mobile apps as well as in the beauty and fashion AI- and AR- industry.

Gross Profit

Gross profit was $12.5 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025, compared with $11.2 million in the same period of 2024, an increase of 11.4%. Gross margin was 77.9% for the three months ended March 31, 2025, from 78.3% in the same period of 2024. The slight decrease in gross margin was primarily due to the increase in third-party payment processing fees paid to digital distribution partners, such as Google and Apple, due to the steady growth in our YouCam mobile app and web services subscription revenue.

Total Operating Expenses

Total operating expenses were $12.6 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025, compared with $12.4 million in the same period of 2024, an increase of 2.0%. The increase was primarily due to increases in research and development (“R&D”) and sales and marketing expenses, which was mostly offset by a decrease in general and administrative expenses in the first quarter of 2025.

  • Sales and marketing expenseswere $7.4 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025, compared to $7.2 million during the same period of 2024, an increase of 2.6%. This increase was primarily due to an increase in marketing events and advertising expenses related to our mobile apps and cloud computing.
  • Research and development expenseswere $3.6 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025, compared to $3.0 million during the same period of 2024, an increase of 17.5%. The increase resulted from increases in R&D headcount and related personnel costs.
  • General and administrative expenseswere $1.7 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025, compared to $2.2 million during the same period of 2024, a significant decrease of 21.6%. The decrease was primarily due to reduced corporate insurance premium and external professional service fees.

Net Income

Net income was $2.3 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025, compared to a $0.6 million during the same period of 2024, an increase of 264.0%. The increase in net income was primarily due to (i) our steady revenue growth and effective cost control , and (ii) an increase in gains from financial liabilities in connection with our outstanding warrants.

Adjusted Net Income (Non-IFRS)

Adjusted net income was $2.0 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025, compared to $1.5 million in the same period of 2024, an increase of 33.3%.

Liquidity and Capital Resource

As of March 31, 2025, the Company’s cash and cash equivalents remained stable at $128.3 million (or $164.6 million when including 6-month time deposits of $36.3 million, which are classified as current financial assets at amortized cost under IFRS), compared to $127.1 million as of December 31, 2024 (or $165.9 million when including time deposits and money market funds).

The Company had a positive operating cash flow of $4.3 million in the first quarter of 2025, compared to $3.5 million in the same period of 2024. The Company continues to invest in growth while maintaining a healthy cash reserve to support business operations underscoring the Company’s operational health and sustainability.

Business Outlook for 2025

Based on the growth momentum in both YouCam mobile apps and web subscriptions and enterprise SaaS solution demands, the Company reiterates its expectation of a 13.0% to 14.5% year-over-year total revenue growth for 2025, compared to 2024.

Note that this forecast is based on the Company’s current assessment of the market and operational conditions, and that these factors are subject to change.

Conference Call Information

The Company’s management will hold an earnings conference call at 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time on April 28, 2025 (8:00 a.m. Taipei Time on April 29, 2025) to discuss the financial results. For participants who wish to join the call, please complete online registration using the link provided below in advance of the conference call. Upon registering, each participant will receive a participant dial-in number and a unique access PIN, which can be used to join the conference call.

Registration Link: https://registrations.events/direct/Q4I51630494

A live and archived webcast of the conference call will also be available at the Company’s investor relations website at https://ir.perfectcorp.com.

About Perfect Corp.

Founded in 2015, Perfect Corp. is a leading AI company offering self-developed AI- and AR- powered solutions dedicated to transforming the world with digital tech innovations that make your virtual world beautiful. On its direct to consumer business, Perfect operates a family of YouCam consumer apps and web-editing services for photo, video and camera users, centered on unleashing creativity with AI-driven features for creation, beautification and enhancement. On Perfect’s enterprise business side, Perfect empowers major beauty, skincare, fashion, jewelry, and watch brands and retailers by supplying them with omnichannel shopping experiences through AR product try-ons and AI-powered skin diagnostics. With cutting-edge technologies such as Generative AI, real-time facial and hand 3D AR rendering and cloud solutions, Perfect enables personalized, enjoyable, and engaging shopping journey and helps brands elevate customer engagement, increase conversion rates, and propel sales growth. Throughout this journey, Perfect maintains its unwavering commitment to environmental sustainability and fulfilling social responsibilities. For more information, visit https://ir.perfectcorp.com/.

Forward-Looking Statements

This communication contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or the Securities Act, and Section 21E of the U.S. Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, or the Exchange Act, that are based on beliefs and assumptions and on information currently available to Perfect. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by the following words: “may,” “will,” “could,” “would,” “should,” “expect,” “intend,” “plan,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “predict,” “project,” “potential,” “continue,” “ongoing,” “target,” “seek” or the negative or plural of these words, or other similar expressions that are predictions or indicate future events or prospects, although not all forward-looking statements contain these words. Any statements that refer to expectations, projections or other characterizations of future events or circumstances, including strategies or plans, are also forward-looking statements. These statements involve risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results, levels of activity, performance or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. These statements are based on Perfect’s reasonable expectations and beliefs concerning future events and involve risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from current expectations. These factors are difficult to predict accurately and may be beyond Perfect’s control. Forward-looking statements in this communication or elsewhere speak only as of the date made. New uncertainties and risks arise from time to time, and it is impossible for Perfect to predict these events or how they may affect Perfect. In addition, risks and uncertainties are described in Perfect’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. These filings may identify and address other important risks and uncertainties that could cause actual events and results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements. Perfect cannot assure you that the forward-looking statements in this communication will prove to be accurate. There may be additional risks that Perfect presently does not know or that Perfect currently does not believe are immaterial that could also cause actual results to differ from those contained in the forward-looking statements. In light of the significant uncertainties in these forward-looking statements, you should not regard these statements as a representation or warranty by Perfect, its directors, officers or employees or any other person that Perfect will achieve its objectives and plans in any specified time frame, or at all. Except as required by applicable law, Perfect does not have any duty to, and does not intend to, update or revise the forward-looking statements in this communication or elsewhere after the date of this communication. You should, therefore, not rely on these forward-looking statements as representing the views of Perfect as of any date subsequent to the date of this communication.

Use of Non-IFRS Financial Measures

This press release and accompanying tables contain certain non-IFRS financial measures, including adjusted net income, as supplemental metrics in reviewing and assessing Perfect’s operating performance and formulating its business plan. Perfect defined these non-IFRS financial measures as follows:

Adjusted net income (loss) is defined as net income (loss) excluding one-off transaction costs3, non-cash equity-based compensation, and non-cash valuation (gain)/loss of financial liabilities. For a reconciliation of adjusted net income (loss) to net income (loss), see the reconciliation table included elsewhere in this press release.

Non-IFRS financial measures are not defined under IFRS and are not presented in accordance with IFRS. Non-IFRS financial measures have limitations as analytical tools, which possibly do not reflect all items of expense that affect our operations. Share-based compensation expenses have been and may continue to be incurred in our business and are not reflected in the presentation of the non-IFRS financial measures. In addition, the non-IFRS financial measures Perfect uses may differ from the non-IFRS measures used by other companies, including peer companies, and therefore their comparability may be limited. The presentation of these non-IFRS financial measures is not intended to be considered in isolation from or as a substitute for the financial information prepared and presented in accordance with IFRS. The items excluded from our adjusted net income are not driven by core results of operations and render comparison of IFRS financial measures with prior periods less meaningful. We believe adjusted net income provides useful information to investors and others in understanding and evaluating our results of operations, as well as providing a useful measure for period-to-period comparisons of our business performance. Moreover, such non-IFRS measures are used by our management internally to make operating decisions, including those related to operating expenses, evaluate performance, and perform strategic planning and annual budgeting.

Braze Acquires OfferFit for $325 Million to Advance AI-Driven Customer Engagement

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com
Key Points:
– Braze is acquiring AI decisioning company OfferFit for $325 million.
– OfferFit’s reinforcement learning technology will enhance Braze’s AI-powered personalization.
– The acquisition supports Braze’s vision for AI-driven customer engagement and experimentation.

Braze (Nasdaq: BRZE), a leading customer engagement platform, has announced its acquisition of OfferFit, an AI decisioning company, for $325 million. The acquisition, expected to close by the end of July 2025, represents a significant step in Braze’s mission to enhance AI-powered personalization, customer journey optimization, and marketing automation.

OfferFit specializes in AI decisioning agents that replace traditional A/B testing with reinforcement learning, allowing brands to automate experimentation and optimize customer interactions in real time. By integrating OfferFit’s technology into its platform, Braze aims to accelerate the evolution of AI-driven engagement, enabling brands to deliver more relevant and personalized customer experiences across multiple channels.

A New Era of AI-Powered Customer Engagement

Braze has long been at the forefront of AI-driven marketing, using machine learning and automation to refine customer interactions. In September 2024, the company introduced Project Catalyst, an initiative designed to leverage AI agents for personalizing customer journeys, content, and incentives. OfferFit’s multi-agent AI system will further enhance these efforts, helping Braze create an even more intelligent and adaptive marketing platform.

“From the beginning, our real-time stream processing technology differentiated Braze’s modern approach to cross-channel customer engagement,” said Braze CEO Bill Magnuson. “Now, with OfferFit’s reinforcement learning technology, we’re taking another leap forward. AI decisioning agents will help brands automatically understand customer behavior, engage them more effectively, and strengthen relationships through intelligent optimization.”

OfferFit has already demonstrated significant success in the AI-driven personalization space. Brands using its technology have seen improved marketing performance by customizing outreach based on hundreds of unique characteristics. For example, companies have used OfferFit’s AI to optimize reactivation campaigns for inactive users or personalize emails to increase new customer signups.

Strategic Benefits and Industry Implications

With this acquisition, Braze is positioning itself as a leader in AI-powered customer engagement at a time when marketers are increasingly turning to automation and machine learning to drive results. OfferFit’s expertise will allow Braze to provide more sophisticated AI-powered tools, helping businesses move beyond manual segmentation and A/B testing to truly individualized marketing strategies.

OfferFit CEO George Khachatryan emphasized the alignment between the two companies. “Like Braze, OfferFit was built to apply advanced technology to the hardest problems that marketers face,” he said. “As a long-time technology partner of Braze, we knew our products were complementary. This acquisition will allow us to scale our AI decisioning technology more rapidly and bring even greater value to Braze’s global customer base.”

Under the terms of the agreement, Braze will acquire OfferFit in a cash and stock transaction. Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC is serving as financial advisor to Braze, with Davis Polk & Wardwell LLP providing legal counsel. OfferFit is being advised by Atlas Technology Group and Latham & Watkins LLP.

The acquisition highlights Braze’s commitment to AI innovation, reinforcing its position as a key player in the rapidly evolving marketing technology landscape. Investors and industry stakeholders will gain further insights during Braze’s Fourth Quarter Fiscal Year 2025 Financial Results Conference Call. As AI continues to reshape marketing, this acquisition signals a new chapter in customer engagement, where automation, data-driven insights, and personalization take center stage.