Category: Technology

Comtech Telecommunications (CMTL) – New Award from Texas

Posted on by cpereira@noblefcm.com


Thursday, June 27, 2024

Comtech Telecommunications Corp. engages in the design, development, production, and marketing of products, systems, and services for advanced communications solutions in the United States and internationally. It operates in three segments: Telecommunications Transmission, Mobile Data Communications, and RF Microwave Amplifiers. The Telecommunications Transmission segment provides satellite earth station equipment and systems, over-the-horizon microwave systems, and forward error correction technology, which are used in various commercial and government applications, including backhaul of wireless and cellular traffic, broadcasting (including HDTV), IP-based communications traffic, long distance telephony, and secure defense applications. The Mobile Data Communications segment provides mobile satellite transceivers, and computers and satellite earth station network gateways and associated installation, training, and maintenance services; supplies and operates satellite packet data networks, including arranging and providing satellite capacity; and offers microsatellites and related components. The RF Microwave Amplifiers segment designs, develops, manufactures, and markets satellite earth station traveling wave tube amplifiers (TWTA) and broadband amplifiers. Its amplifiers are used in broadcast and broadband satellite communication; defense applications, such as telecommunications systems and electronic warfare systems; and commercial applications comprising oncology treatment systems, as well as to amplify signals carrying voice, video, or data for air-to-satellite-to-ground communications. The company serves satellite systems integrators, wireless and other communication service providers, broadcasters, defense contractors, military, governments, and oil companies. Comtech markets its products through independent representatives and value-added resellers. The company was founded in 1967 and is headquartered in Melville, New York.

Joe Gomes, CFA, 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.

New Contract. Comtech announced the Company has been awarded a contract from North Central Texas Emergency Communications District to provide NG911 services. The Company will be assisting in further modernizing the district’s infrastructure. The contract carries a five-year base award with three two-year option periods, and a maximum value of $30 million.

Continued Relationship. The district’s contract with Comtech continues an established relationship of over 10 years. Currently, the Company provides call routing and call handling technologies and serves over two million people in the state of Texas. With the contract, the district will have the ability to fully migrate to a new NG911 system, and the Company will also help in enhancing the region’s call routing capabilities.


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AI Revolution in Healthcare: Simplify Healthcare Acquires Virtical.ai

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

In a groundbreaking move, Simplify Healthcare has announced its acquisition of Virtical.ai, setting the stage for a dramatic transformation in health insurance technology. This strategic merger, revealed on June 24, 2024, combines Simplify Healthcare’s established SaaS platform with Virtical.ai’s advanced artificial intelligence capabilities, promising to revolutionize how health insurance providers operate in an increasingly complex market.

The timing of this acquisition is particularly significant as the healthcare industry grapples with mounting pressures to personalize services, streamline operations, and navigate intricate regulatory landscapes. By integrating Virtical.ai’s AI prowess into its Simplify Health Cloud™ platform, Simplify Healthcare aims to empower health insurance companies (Payers) with sophisticated tools to address these challenges effectively.

At the core of this acquisition lies the transformative potential of AI-driven solutions. Virtical.ai’s technology, which has been trained on an extensive database of health plan-specific documents, excels in data extraction and comparison. This capability enables Payers to offer highly personalized plans and benefits to both employer and individual segments, potentially revolutionizing the way health insurance is customized to meet individual needs.

Simplify Healthcare’s leadership team has expressed enthusiasm about the merger’s potential to reshape the industry. They emphasize the ability of AI models to process complex documents such as Statements of Benefits and Coverage (SBCs) and Machine Readable Files (MRFs), highlighting the potential for significant advancements in plan comparison, selection, and price transparency.

The acquisition also addresses critical challenges in network management. Virtical.ai’s platform can identify gaps in Payer networks by analyzing provider and member locations. This feature allows Payers to strategically promote their network coverage strengths and address deficiencies, ensuring members have access to suitable providers within their area. Moreover, the ability to benchmark negotiated provider rates against competitors offers Payers valuable insights for rate-setting and targeted marketing initiatives.

Virtical.ai’s leadership shares the excitement about the merger’s potential impact. They highlight how their AI models, built on decades of industry experience, are positioned to drive membership growth and revenue when integrated with Simplify Healthcare’s enterprise SaaS platform.

The integration of Virtical.ai’s technology is expected to enhance several of Simplify Healthcare’s existing solutions, including Benefits1™, Provider1™, Service1™, Claims1™, and Experience1™. These enhancements promise to provide Payers with more precise solutions to complex challenges in delivering products, benefits, and provider data.

Simplify Healthcare’s strategic team underscores the acquisition’s importance in the face of market disruptions. They believe that combining their industry-leading platform with Virtical.ai’s innovative AI solutions in Health Plan Sales and Network Management will empower Payers to achieve growth despite facing disruptive market and regulatory forces.

This merger also reflects a broader industry trend towards leveraging AI and machine learning to improve efficiency and personalization. By utilizing both generative AI and machine learning algorithms on unstructured document content and structured data, the combined entity aims to deliver cutting-edge solutions to Payers navigating the complexities of AI integration.

As the healthcare landscape continues to evolve, this acquisition positions Simplify Healthcare at the forefront of the AI revolution in health insurance technology. The promise of more personalized health plans, optimized network coverage, and data-driven decision-making tools could significantly impact not only Payers but also brokers and, ultimately, healthcare consumers.

With this bold move, Simplify Healthcare and Virtical.ai are poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of health insurance in an increasingly digital and personalized world. Their combined expertise and technological capabilities have the potential to drive innovation, enhance efficiency, and improve the overall experience for all stakeholders in the health insurance ecosystem.

Take a moment to take a look at GoHealth Inc. (GOCO), a health insurance marketplace that leverages modern machine-learning algorithms and helps individuals find the best health insurance plan for their specific needs.

Amazon Hits $2 Trillion Market Cap for the First Time as Tech Sector Thrives

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

In a testament to the enduring strength and allure of the technology sector, e-commerce and cloud computing giant Amazon has reached a market capitalization of $2 trillion for the first time. This milestone, achieved on June 26, 2024, underscores the robust performance of tech stocks and reinforces the sector’s position as a cornerstone of modern investment strategies.

Amazon’s ascent to the $2 trillion club is not an isolated event but part of a broader trend in the tech industry. The company joins an elite group of tech behemoths, including Nvidia, Apple, Alphabet, and Microsoft, all of which have surpassed this remarkable valuation threshold. This collective success story highlights the tech sector’s resilience and its ability to generate substantial returns for investors.

The driving force behind this surge in tech valuations is multifaceted. Generative artificial intelligence has emerged as a particularly potent catalyst, igniting investor excitement and fueling unprecedented growth. Nvidia, a key player in AI hardware, exemplifies this trend, having seen its market value skyrocket from $2 trillion to $3 trillion in just over three months.

Amazon’s journey to $2 trillion has been propelled by several factors. The company’s cloud computing arm, Amazon Web Services (AWS), has shown strong recovery and growth potential, particularly in the realm of AI services. Additionally, CEO Andy Jassy’s cost-cutting initiatives have bolstered earnings, earning the approval of investors and analysts alike.

The tech sector’s impressive performance extends beyond these giants. The Nasdaq, a tech-heavy index, has risen by approximately 18% year-to-date, outpacing broader market indices. This outperformance underscores the sector’s ability to navigate economic uncertainties and capitalize on emerging trends.

For investors, the tech sector continues to present compelling opportunities. The industry’s track record of innovation, adaptability, and growth makes it an attractive option for those seeking long-term value appreciation. From established giants like Amazon to emerging players in fields such as AI, cybersecurity, and clean tech, the sector offers a diverse range of investment prospects.

However, it’s crucial for investors to approach tech investments with a balanced perspective. While the sector has demonstrated remarkable growth, it also comes with its own set of risks, including regulatory challenges, intense competition, and the rapid pace of technological change. Diversification and thorough research remain key strategies for those looking to capitalize on the tech sector’s potential.

As we look to the future, the tech sector’s influence on the global economy shows no signs of waning. With ongoing advancements in AI, cloud computing, IoT, and other transformative technologies, the industry is poised to continue shaping our world and presenting new investment opportunities.

Amazon’s entry into the $2 trillion club is more than just a milestone for the company; it’s a reflection of the tech sector’s enduring strength and its potential to generate substantial returns. As technology continues to evolve and permeate every aspect of our lives, the sector remains a beacon for growth-oriented investors, offering the promise of innovation, disruption, and long-term value creation.

Release – North Central Texas Awards Comtech Public Safety Contract Valued at Approximately $30.0 Million

Posted on by dburczyk@noblecapitalmarkets.com

Research News and Market Data on CMTL

CHANDLER, Ariz. – June 26, 2024– Comtech (NASDAQ: CMTL) (the “Company”), a global technology leader, today announced the North Central Texas Emergency Communications District (“NCT9-1-1”) awarded the Company a contract to deliver Next Generation 9-1-1 (“NG9-1-1”) services that will further modernize NCT9-1-1’s infrastructure. The NCT9-1-1 contract includes a five-year base award, as well as three additional two-year option periods, with a not to exceed value of approximately $30.0 million.

Comtech has partnered with NCT9-1-1 for over 10 years and the Company currently provides a wide range of call routing and call handling technologies serving over two million people in Texas. NCT9-1-1 is responsible for 40-plus Emergency Communications Centers in 13 counties and five municipalities surrounding the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex.

Through this new contract, Comtech’s comprehensive suite of public safety solutions will enable NCT9-1-1 to fully migrate to a new NG9-1-1 system. Comtech will also continue to enhance the region’s call routing capabilities by providing major NG9-1-1 sub-components, including Next Generation Core Services, Emergency Services Internet Protocol Network and Call Aggregation, among other services.

“As a longstanding partner, Comtech is working with NCT9-1-1 to bring forward new emergency response capabilities that ensure residents and visitors get the help they need when lives are on the line and seconds matter most,” said John Whitehead, General Manager of Comtech’s Safety and Security Technologies (“SST”) Division. “This contract further demonstrates the trust of our public safety partners in the United States, and we are honored to continue working with the NCT9-1-1 to deliver a purpose-built public safety architecture that meets the needs of communities and individuals in crisis.”

“Comtech is continuing to support the NCT9-1-1 by delivering critical NG9-1-1 capabilities that enhance emergency response services and protect our public,” said Christy Williams, Director of 9-1-1 at NCT9-1-1. “NCT9-1-1’s 10-plus year partnership with Comtech in the early adoption of NG9-1-1 services has taught us a lot. We are looking forward to continuous improvement with Comtech as we forge the future of emergency communications together.”

As one of the most trusted providers of public safety technologies, Comtech is continuing to expand its NG9-1-1 call routing and call handling solutions for governments and emergency response providers across the globe. The Company’s NG9-1-1 offerings are designed to adapt and continuously evolve over time to meet the needs of emerging use cases as well as future applications.

About Comtech

Comtech Telecommunications Corp. is a leading global technology company providing terrestrial and wireless network solutions, next-generation 9-1-1 emergency services, satellite and space communications technologies, and cloud native capabilities to commercial and government customers around the world. Our unique culture of innovation and employee empowerment unleashes a relentless passion for customer success. With multiple facilities located in technology corridors throughout the United States and around the world, Comtech leverages our global presence, technology leadership, and decades of experience to create the world’s most innovative communications solutions.For more information, please visit www.comtech.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain information in this press release contains statements that are forward-looking in nature and involve certain significant risks and uncertainties. Actual results and performance could differ materially from such forward-looking information. The Company’s Securities and Exchange Commission filings identify many such risks and uncertainties. Any forward-looking information in this press release is qualified in its entirety by the risks and uncertainties described in such Securities and Exchange Commission filings.

PCMTL

Investor Relations

Maria Ceriello

631-962-7115

Maria.Ceriello@comtech.com

Media Contact

Jamie Clegg

480-532-2523

jamie.clegg@comtech.com

Release – Conduent Recognized as a Leader in 2024 NelsonHall CX Services Transformation Report

Posted on by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

Research News and Market Data on CNDT

JUNE 20, 2024

Conduent named a leader in Cost Optimization Capability in 2024 NEAT

FLORHAM PARK, N.J. — Conduent Incorporated (Nasdaq: CNDT), a global technology-led business solutions and services company, today announced that NelsonHall, a global analyst firm, has named the company a market leader in its 2024 NelsonHall Evaluation and Assessment Tool (NEAT) for CX Services Transformation. This year’s report evaluated 17 companies on their customer experience (CX) services across a range of criteria.

This year’s NEAT report identified Conduent as a leader for:

  • Expertise in knowledge management transformation with implementations across multiple verticals
  • Strong employee training and learning practice with technology interventions
  • CX transformation offerings, such as knowledge management, training, work from home and quality assurance
  • Strong portfolio of sector-specific CX services in the high-growth healthcare, travel and transportation verticals

Ivan Kotzev, Lead CX Services Analyst at NelsonHall, said, “Brands increasingly understand the need to change entire journeys and customer experiences spanning different internal functions and external ecosystems. Conduent’s CX consulting and advisory approach aims to tackle this fundamental change in the CX industry, and it is productizing its CX consulting services as part of the larger market shift to ‘as-a-service’ transformation.”

“Strategic organizations have recognized the many benefits of outsourcing their CX services including improved customer satisfaction, cost reduction, increased sales, expanded access to leading technology, scalability and geographical diversification,” said Randall King, Executive Vice President and President of Commercial Solutions at Conduent. “We value NelsonHall’s thoughtful evaluation of the CX marketplace and their analysis that Conduent, as a leader, can be the answer for organizations looking for reduced upfront capital investments, flexibility in the face of external instability and accelerated technology access and scale.”

In one example for a leading global logistics company, Conduent was able to help its client cost effectively and quickly scale both English and Spanish customer service. Conduent was able to achieve 40% cost savings, while delivering lower handle times and consistent high quality for multiple lines of business including customer service and retail store calls in English and Spanish. The Conduent CX team was able to achieve these outcomes using a unique combination of technology and data analytics to deliver targeted coaching, focus on efficiencies and develop innovative onboarding processes.

NelsonHall defines leaders for their ability to meet future client requirements as well as delivering immediate benefits to its CX services clients.

To read a custom version of the NEAT for CX Services Transformation focused on Conduent’s Customer Experience Management Solutions, visit https://insights.conduent.com/reports/cx-services-transformation.

About Conduent
Conduent delivers digital business solutions and services spanning the commercial, government and transportation spectrum – creating valuable outcomes for its clients and the millions of people who count on them. The Company leverages cloud computing, artificial intelligence, machine learning, automation and advanced analytics to deliver mission-critical solutions. Through a dedicated global team of approximately 59,000 associates, process expertise and advanced technologies, Conduent’s solutions and services digitally transform its clients’ operations to enhance customer experiences, improve performance, increase efficiencies and reduce costs. Conduent adds momentum to its clients’ missions in many ways including disbursing approximately $100 billion in government payments annually, enabling 2.3 billion customer service interactions annually, empowering millions of employees through HR services every year and processing nearly 13 million tolling transactions every day. Learn more at www.conduent.com.

Note: To receive RSS news feeds, visit www.news.conduent.com. For open commentary, industry perspectives and views, visit http://twitter.com/Conduent, http://www.linkedin.com/company/conduent or http://www.facebook.com/Conduent.

Trademarks
Conduent is a trademark of Conduent Incorporated in the United States and/or other countries. Other names may be trademarks of their respective owners.

Media Contacts

LISA PATTERSON

Conduent

lisa.patterson@conduent.com

+1-816-305-4421

GILES GOODBURN

Conduent

ir@conduent.com

+1-203-216-3546

Comtech Telecommunications (CMTL) – Finally, the Refi is Done. And 3QFY24 Results

Posted on by cpereira@noblefcm.com


Thursday, June 20, 2024

Comtech Telecommunications Corp. engages in the design, development, production, and marketing of products, systems, and services for advanced communications solutions in the United States and internationally. It operates in three segments: Telecommunications Transmission, Mobile Data Communications, and RF Microwave Amplifiers. The Telecommunications Transmission segment provides satellite earth station equipment and systems, over-the-horizon microwave systems, and forward error correction technology, which are used in various commercial and government applications, including backhaul of wireless and cellular traffic, broadcasting (including HDTV), IP-based communications traffic, long distance telephony, and secure defense applications. The Mobile Data Communications segment provides mobile satellite transceivers, and computers and satellite earth station network gateways and associated installation, training, and maintenance services; supplies and operates satellite packet data networks, including arranging and providing satellite capacity; and offers microsatellites and related components. The RF Microwave Amplifiers segment designs, develops, manufactures, and markets satellite earth station traveling wave tube amplifiers (TWTA) and broadband amplifiers. Its amplifiers are used in broadcast and broadband satellite communication; defense applications, such as telecommunications systems and electronic warfare systems; and commercial applications comprising oncology treatment systems, as well as to amplify signals carrying voice, video, or data for air-to-satellite-to-ground communications. The company serves satellite systems integrators, wireless and other communication service providers, broadcasters, defense contractors, military, governments, and oil companies. Comtech markets its products through independent representatives and value-added resellers. The company was founded in 1967 and is headquartered in Melville, New York.

Joe Gomes, CFA, 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.

A Refinancing. Comtech announced a new $222 million credit facility, replacing the previous facility which was due this October. The refi removes a significant uncertainty, in our view, and will enable a return to a normal operating environment over time. The interest rate is a blended 14%, up from the 10% under the previous facility.

3Q Results. Supplier and customer worry about Comtech’s financial status resulted in a push to the right for sales, negatively impacting 3Q24 results. Revenue was $128.1 million, down from $136.3 million last year and below our $139 million projection. Adjusted EBITDA totaled $11.9 million, or a 9.3% margin, compared to $12.5 million and a 9.2% margin in 3Q23. Comtech reported a net loss of $1.0 million, or a loss of $0.04/sh, compared to a loss of $9.2 million, or $0.33/sh last year.


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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.

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

Nvidia Dethrones Microsoft as Most Valuable Company Amid AI Boom

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

In a monumental shift in the tech landscape, Nvidia (NVDA) has overtaken Microsoft (MSFT) to become the world’s most valuable publicly traded company. This remarkable feat, fueled by Nvidia’s dominance in the artificial intelligence (AI) chip market, has sent shockwaves through the industry and underscores the transformative power of generative AI technology.

On Tuesday, June 18, 2024, Nvidia’s stock price surged nearly 4%, propelling its market capitalization to an astounding $3.35 trillion, surpassing Microsoft’s market cap of $3.32 trillion. This milestone solidifies Nvidia’s position as the tech industry’s undisputed leader in AI chips and integrated software, a pivotal role that has driven its meteoric rise in recent years.

Nvidia’s Explosive Growth and the AI Revolution

Nvidia’s stock has skyrocketed over the past year, gaining a staggering 215%, and a remarkable 3,400% over the last five years. This unprecedented growth can be directly attributed to the generative AI explosion that began with the debut of OpenAI’s ChatGPT platform in late 2022.

As the go-to supplier for AI chips and software, Nvidia’s products have become indispensable for tech giants like Amazon, Google, Meta, Microsoft, and Tesla, powering everything from cloud-based AI offerings to their own AI models and services. This strategic advantage has propelled Nvidia to the forefront of the AI revolution, outpacing rivals AMD and Intel, who are now racing to catch up.

Nvidia’s Dominance in the AI Chip Market

Nvidia’s Data Center segment, which encompasses its AI chip business, saw a staggering 427% year-over-year revenue increase in the first quarter of 2024, accounting for a remarkable 86% of the company’s total revenue. This meteoric growth highlights the insatiable demand for Nvidia’s AI chips and software, cementing its position as the cornerstone of the AI revolution.

With the recent announcement of its upcoming Blackwell Ultra and Rubin AI chip platforms, Nvidia is doubling down on its AI supremacy, aiming to maintain its lead over competitors like AMD and Intel, who are aggressively developing their own AI chips.

Challenges and Competition Ahead

Despite its current dominance, Nvidia faces mounting competition from its own customers, as tech giants like Amazon, Google, and Microsoft seek to reduce their reliance on Nvidia’s chips and cut costs. These companies are investing billions in developing their own AI chips, aiming to gain greater control over their AI capabilities and reduce their dependence on Nvidia.

Additionally, rivals like AMD and Intel are making significant strides in the AI chip market, with AMD’s MI325X and MI350 chips slated for release in 2024 and 2025, and Intel’s Gaudi 2 and Gaudi 3 accelerators promising to undercut Nvidia on price.

Riding the AI Wave

Nvidia’s ascent to become the world’s most valuable company is a testament to its visionary leadership and its ability to capitalize on the AI revolution. As the demand for AI chips and software continues to soar, Nvidia’s position at the forefront of this transformative technology has propelled its growth to unprecedented heights.

However, with intense competition on the horizon, Nvidia faces the challenge of maintaining its innovative edge and fending off rivals eager to chip away at its dominance. As the AI arms race intensifies, Nvidia’s ability to navigate this rapidly evolving landscape will be critical to sustaining its newfound status as the world’s most valuable company.

Release – GoHealth to Present at the Noble Capital Markets Consumer, Communications, Media, and Technology Emerging Growth Virtual Equity Conference

Posted on by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

Research News and Market Data on GOCO

Jun 18, 2024 at 8:00 AM EDT

CHICAGO, June 18, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — GoHealth, Inc. (GoHealth) (NASDAQ: GOCO), a leading health insurance marketplace and Medicare-focused digital health company, announced the company will present at the Noble Capital Markets Consumer, Communications, Media, and Technology Emerging Growth Virtual Equity Conference on Wednesday, June 26, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. Eastern Time.

A live webcast of the presentation may be accessed through a link that will be posted on GoHealth’s Investor Relations website, https://investors.gohealth.com/. A replay will be available through the same link following the conference.

About GoHealth, Inc.

GoHealth is a leading health insurance marketplace and Medicare-focused digital health company whose purpose is to compassionately ensure consumers’ peace of mind when making healthcare decisions so they can focus on living life. For many of these consumers, enrolling in a health insurance plan is confusing and difficult, and seemingly small differences between health plans may lead to significant out-of-pocket costs or lack of access to critical providers and medicines. GoHealth’s proprietary technology platform leverages modern machine-learning algorithms, powered by over two decades of insurance purchasing behavior, to reimagine the process of matching a health plan to a consumer’s specific needs. Its unbiased, technology-driven marketplace coupled with highly skilled licensed agents has facilitated the enrollment of millions of consumers in Medicare plans since GoHealth’s inception. For more information, visit https://www.gohealth.com.

Investor Relations
John Shave
jshave@gohealth.com

Media Relations
Pressinquiries@gohealth.com

Release – Comtech Announces Third Quarter Fiscal 2024 Results and Entered into New $222.0 Million Credit Facility

Posted on by dburczyk@noblecapitalmarkets.com

Research News and Market Data on CMTL

CHANDLER, Ariz. – June 18, 2024 — Comtech (NASDAQ: CMTL) (“the Company”) today announced its third quarter fiscal 2024 financial results in a letter to shareholders which is now posted to the Investor Relations section of Comtech’s website. Investors are invited to access the third quarter fiscal 2024 shareholder letter at comtech.com/investors/. A copy of the letter will also be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission in a Form 8-K.

Comtech also announced that on June 17, 2024, the Company entered into a $222.0 million credit facility with a new syndicate of lenders which is expected to be funded on or around June 18, 2024. The New Credit Facility matures on July 31, 2028, consists of a committed $162.0 million term loan facility and $60.0 million revolver loan facility and is expected to have outstanding borrowings at close of approximately $187.0 million, reflecting $25.0 million drawn on the revolver. A copy of the credit agreement will be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission in a Form 8-K.

Comtech also intends to host an earnings conference call at 8:30AM ET today, Tuesday, June 18, 2024. Individuals can access the conference call by dialing (800) 267-6316 (domestic) or (203) 518-9783 (international) and using the conference I.D. of “Comtech.” A replay of the conference call will be available for two weeks by dialing (888) 566-0152 or (402) 220-9186. A live webcast of the call is also available at comtech.com/investors/.

About Comtech

Comtech Telecommunications Corp. is a leading global technology company providing terrestrial and wireless network solutions, next-generation 9-1-1 emergency services, satellite and space communications technologies, and cloud native capabilities to commercial and government customers around the world. Our unique culture of innovation and employee empowerment unleashes a relentless passion for customer success. With multiple facilities located in technology corridors throughout the United States and around the world, Comtech leverages our global presence, technology leadership, and decades of experience to create the world’s most innovative communications solutions.For more information, please visit www.comtech.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain information in this press release contains statements that are forward-looking in nature and involve certain significant risks and uncertainties. Actual results could differ materially from such forward-looking information. The Company’s Securities and Exchange Commission filings identify many such risks and uncertainties. Any forward-looking information in this press release is qualified in its entirety by the risks and uncertainties described in such Securities and Exchange Commission filings.

PCMTL

Investor Relations

Maria Ceriello

631-962-7102

investors@comtech.com

Apple Reclaims World’s Most Valuable Company Crown with Transformative AI Strategy

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

In the relentless battle for tech supremacy, Apple has reclaimed its throne, dethroning Microsoft as the world’s most valuable public company after unveiling an ambitious artificial intelligence roadmap. The iPhone maker’s market capitalization surged past $3.3 trillion on Wednesday, surpassing Microsoft’s $3.2 trillion valuation, as investors rallied behind Apple’s audacious AI vision.

For years, Apple had remained relatively muted about its artificial intelligence pursuits, even as rivals like Microsoft, Google, and OpenAI raced ahead with generative AI models and conversational assistants. However, the company’s silence was shattered at its Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) on Monday, where it unveiled “Apple Intelligence” – a sweeping initiative to infuse AI capabilities across its product ecosystem.

At the core of Apple’s AI strategy is a suite of generative AI features that will be deeply integrated into its software and hardware. From writing assistance in core apps like Mail and Notes to AI-powered image and emoji generation, Apple aims to make artificial intelligence a seamless part of its user experience. Crucially, many of these cutting-edge AI capabilities will be exclusive to the latest iPhone models, potentially driving a surge in device upgrades and sales – a phenomenon analysts are calling an “iPhone super cycle.”

But Apple’s ambitions extend far beyond consumer-facing features. The company also announced plans to integrate large language models developed by OpenAI, a company in which Microsoft is a major investor, into its products and services. This strategic partnership underscores the complex web of alliances and rivalries that are emerging in the AI race.

While Apple’s AI plans have garnered widespread enthusiasm, skeptics question whether the company’s walled garden approach can truly compete with the open ecosystems fostered by rivals like Microsoft and Google. Apple’s insistence on maintaining tight control over its platforms and data has long been a source of contention, and some analysts worry that this could hamper the company’s ability to develop cutting-edge AI models at scale.

Nevertheless, Apple’s AI announcement has sent shockwaves through the tech industry, reigniting the battle for market dominance and technological leadership. As the company leverages its vast resources, cutting-edge hardware, and loyal user base to integrate AI into its products, it is poised to reshape the tech landscape and solidify its position as a formidable force in the AI revolution.

The resurgence of Apple as the world’s most valuable company is a testament to the immense potential – and potential pitfalls – of artificial intelligence. While AI promises to revolutionize industries and reshape the way we live and work, it also raises complex ethical and societal questions that must be grappled with by tech giants and policymakers alike.

As the AI race intensifies, companies like Apple and Microsoft will not only be vying for market supremacy but also shouldering the responsibility of shaping the future of this transformative technology. From addressing issues of bias and privacy to navigating the ethical implications of AI, these tech titans will play a pivotal role in determining how this powerful technology is developed and deployed.

With its latest AI offensive, Apple has reasserted its position as a tech leader, but the battle for AI dominance is far from over. As the industry continues to evolve at a breakneck pace, the companies that can strike the right balance between innovation, ethics, and user trust will emerge as the true winners in this high-stakes race.

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Quantum Leap: The Next Big Investment Opportunity in Healthcare?

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

Imagine a world where diseases are detected at the earliest stages, new life-saving drugs are developed in a fraction of the time, and medical resources are optimized to deliver the best possible care. This future may not be as far-fetched as it sounds, thanks to a revolutionary technology called quantum computing.

What is Quantum Computing?
Quantum computing is a mind-bending technology that harnesses the strange behavior of particles at the subatomic level. Unlike traditional computers that process information as binary bits (0s and 1s), quantum computers use quantum bits or qubits that can exist in multiple states simultaneously. This superposition phenomenon allows quantum computers to perform millions of calculations at once, making them exponentially more powerful than classical computers.

The Healthcare Revolution
While quantum computing may seem like something straight out of a science fiction movie, its potential applications in healthcare are very real and could transform the industry as we know it.

  1. Accelerating Drug Discovery
    One of the most promising applications of quantum computing is in the field of drug discovery. Finding new medicines is a painstakingly slow and expensive process, often taking decades and billions of dollars. Quantum computers can simulate complex molecular interactions at an unprecedented scale, allowing researchers to quickly identify promising drug candidates. This could dramatically shorten the drug development timeline, saving lives and billions of dollars.

Consider this: It takes an average of 10 years and $2.6 billion to develop a new drug from initial discovery to market approval. With quantum computing, pharmaceutical companies could potentially cut development times by years, significantly reducing costs and getting life-saving treatments to patients faster.

  1. Personalized Medicine
    We all have unique genetic makeups that influence our response to different treatments. Personalized medicine aims to tailor therapies to an individual’s genetic profile, but analyzing vast amounts of genomic data is a daunting task for classical computers. Quantum computers can process and identify patterns in complex genetic data, enabling truly personalized treatment plans that maximize efficacy and minimize side effects.

Imagine a future where your doctor can analyze your entire genome and prescribe a medication tailored specifically to your genetic makeup, minimizing the risk of adverse reactions or ineffective treatments. This level of precision could revolutionize healthcare, improving outcomes and reducing waste.

  1. Enhanced Medical Imaging
    Medical imaging techniques like MRI and CT scans generate massive amounts of data. Quantum computing can enhance image processing, improving clarity and resolution, enabling earlier detection of diseases like cancer. Early detection is key to successful treatment and could save countless lives.

With quantum-enhanced imaging, doctors could potentially identify tumors and other abnormalities at much earlier stages, significantly increasing the chances of successful treatment and survival.

  1. Optimized Healthcare Logistics
    Healthcare systems involve intricate logistics, from managing hospital resources to optimizing patient care. Quantum computing’s ability to solve complex optimization problems can help hospitals better manage staff, equipment, and patient flow, leading to improved efficiency and reduced costs.

By optimizing resource allocation and patient flow, quantum computing could help hospitals reduce wait times, improve patient experiences, and ultimately deliver better care at lower costs.

The Investment Opportunity
While quantum computing is still in its early stages, the potential payoffs in healthcare are staggering. Tech giants like IBM, Google, and startups like Rigetti Computing are investing heavily in quantum research. As the technology matures, we can expect to see a surge of investment opportunities in quantum computing companies and healthcare firms that leverage this technology.

Analysts estimate that quantum computing could create a $450 billion to $850 billion annual market by 2045, with healthcare being one of the prime beneficiaries. Early investors in this space could see massive returns as the technology takes off.

Of course, there are challenges to overcome, such as building stable, large-scale quantum computers and developing algorithms tailored for healthcare applications. However, the potential rewards are vast, both in terms of human lives saved and financial returns for savvy investors who recognize the transformative power of quantum computing in healthcare.

Quantum computing holds the promise to revolutionize healthcare by accelerating drug discovery, enabling personalized medicine, enhancing medical imaging, and optimizing resource management. While the technology is still in its early stages, the potential benefits for medicine are enormous. As we continue to explore and develop quantum computing, the future of healthcare looks brighter than ever, offering new hope for patients and medical professionals alike.

Release – QuantaSing Group Limited Announces up to US$20.0 Million Share Repurchase Program

Posted on by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

Research News and Market Data on QSG

June 11, 2024

PDF Version

BEIJING, June 11, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — QuantaSing Group Limited (NASDAQ: QSG) (“QuantaSing” or the “Company”), a leading online learning service provider in China, today announced that its board of directors (the “Board”) has authorized a share repurchase program under which the Company may repurchase up to US$20.0 million of its Class A ordinary shares in the form of American depositary shares (“ADSs”) during a twelve-month period commencing on June 11, 2024 (the “Share Repurchase Program”).

“The Share Repurchase Program is well-aligned with our commitment to maximizing value for our shareholders and reflects the Board’s confidence in the Company’s continued growth and long-term prospects,” said Mr. Peng Li, QuantaSing’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer.

Repurchases under the program may be made from time to time through open market transactions at prevailing market prices, in privately negotiated transactions, in block trades and/or through other legally permissible means. The repurchases will be subject to all applicable rules and regulations, including Rule 10b-18 and Rule 10b5-1 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, as well as the Company’s insider trading policy. The number of ADSs repurchased and the timing of repurchases will also depend on a number of factors, including, but not limited to, price, trading volume and general market conditions, along with the Company’s working capital requirements, general business conditions and other factors. The Board will review the Share Repurchase Program periodically, and may authorize adjustment of its terms and size or suspend or discontinue the program. The Company plans to fund the repurchases from its existing cash balance. 

Safe Harbor Statements

This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of Securities Act of 1933, as amended and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended and the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1955. All statements other than statements of historical or current fact included in this press release are forward-looking statements, including but not limited to statements regarding QuantaSing’s financial outlook, beliefs and expectations. These statements can be identified by terminology such as “will,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “future,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “estimates,” “potential,” “continue,” “ongoing,” “targets,” “guidance” and similar statements. Among other things, the Financial Outlook in this announcement contains forward-looking statements. The Company may also make written or oral forward-looking statements in its periodic reports to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), in its annual report to shareholders, in press releases, and other written materials and in oral statements made by its officers, directors or employees to third parties. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement, including but not limited to the following: the Company’s growth strategies; its future business development, results of operations and financial condition; its ability to attract and retain new users and learners and to increase the spending and revenues generated from users and learners; its ability to maintain and enhance the recognition and reputation of its brand; its expectations regarding demand for and market acceptance of its services and products; trends and competition in China’s adult learning market; changes in its revenues and certain cost or expense items; the expected growth of China’s adult learning market; PRC governmental policies and regulations relating to the Company’s business and industry, general economic and political conditions in China and globally, and assumptions underlying or related to any of the foregoing. Further information regarding these and other risks, uncertainties, or factors is included in the Company’s filings with the SEC, including, without limitation, the final prospectus related to the IPO filed with the SEC dated January 24, 2023. You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date this press release. All forward-looking statements are qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement, and the Company undertakes no obligation to revise or update any forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof.

About QuantaSing Group Limited

QuantaSing is a leading online service provider in China dedicated to improving people’s quality of life and well-being by providing lifelong personal learning and development opportunities. The Company is the largest service provider in China’s online adult learning market and China’s adult personal interest learning market in terms of revenue, according to a report by Frost & Sullivan based on data from 2022. By leveraging its proprietary tools and technology, QuantaSing offers easy-to-understand, affordable, and accessible online courses to adult learners, empowering users to pursue personal development. Leveraging its extensive experience in individual online learning services and its robust technology infrastructure, the Company has expanded its services to corporate clients, and diversified its operations into its e-commerce business and its AI and technology business.

For more information, please visit: https://ir.quantasing.com.

Contact
Investor Relations
Leah Guo
QuantaSing Group Limited
Email: ir@quantasing.com
Tel: +86 (10) 6493-7857

Robin Yang, Partner
ICR, LLC
Email: QuantaSing.IR@icrinc.com
Phone: +1 (212) 537-0429

Conduent Inc. (CNDT) – Well-Priced Share Repurchase Takes Out Activist

Posted on by cpereira@noblefcm.com


Tuesday, June 11, 2024

Patrick McCann, CFA, Research Analyst, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

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

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

Carl Icahn exits. Yesterday the company announced that it repurchased roughly 38 million shares controlled by Carl Icahn for $3.47/share ($132 million). The purchase price was based on the close on June 7th. With the transaction, Carl Icahn no longer has a beneficial interest in the company’s common equity. In addition, the 3 Icahn sponsored board members resigned. We expect the company to seek replacements for the retired board members with members that could support its growth initiatives. 

Backstory. Carl Icahn played an activist role in spinning out Conduent from Xerox in 2017 and had been a CNDT shareholder ever since. We believe that Icahn was supportive of the company’s asset sales and its current transition plan, but likely chose to focus on his larger positions. Notably, Icahn exited his Xerox stake last year.


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