Long-maturity U.S. Treasuries opened 2026 on a cautious note, following the market’s most robust annual performance in five years. While last year saw substantial gains for government bonds, investors are now recalibrating as the potential for additional Federal Reserve interest-rate cuts raises concerns about inflation and fiscal sustainability.
The 30-year Treasury yield rose roughly two basis points to 4.87%, reflecting modest losses but signaling increased volatility after last year’s record gains. In contrast, shorter-dated Treasuries, which are more directly influenced by Fed policy, remained relatively stable or slightly lower. This divergence continues the trend observed in late 2025, when the Fed cut its target range by three quarter-point moves, leading short-term yields lower while long-term rates were supported by economic resilience and fiscal pressures.
Investor focus has shifted to how a potential new Fed leadership might approach monetary policy. Long-term bond yields face upward pressure not only from prospective rate cuts but also from the U.S. government’s challenging fiscal outlook and signs of continued economic strength. Data released late last year indicated the U.S. economy expanded at the fastest pace in two years, complicating the narrative that rate reductions alone would sustain low yields.
Market participants are also closely watching interest-rate derivatives. Recent trading shows heavy demand for options that protect against the federal funds rate dropping to 0% from its current 3.5% range, while swap contracts suggest a more moderate decline toward a 3% floor by year-end. These instruments highlight investor uncertainty over the Fed’s next moves and underline the tension between potential policy easing and persistent inflation, which remains above the central bank’s 2% target.
Despite these concerns, Treasuries continue to serve a strategic role for investors. Portfolio managers cite historically high stock valuations as a compelling reason to maintain exposure to government bonds, providing a hedge against market corrections. James Athey, a portfolio manager at Marlborough Investment Management, notes that volatility is likely to return to bond markets as investors wrestle with the Fed’s evolving policy stance. This environment may produce short-term swings in long-term yields, even as the overall trend for bonds remains influenced by macroeconomic fundamentals.
Globally, bond markets are experiencing similar pressures. Germany’s 10-year yields climbed six basis points to 2.91%, while the UK’s 10-year yield rose five basis points to 4.53%. In Australia, 10-year bonds slumped as yields jumped eight basis points on speculation that rising commodity prices could accelerate growth and prompt the Reserve Bank of Australia to raise rates. Meanwhile, January marks one of the busiest months for new corporate bond issuance, increasing competition for investor capital and adding another layer of pressure on Treasury prices.
Looking ahead, Treasuries are expected to remain a key tool for risk management, particularly for investors balancing exposure to equities and small caps. While the bond market’s exceptional 2025 performance sets a high bar, 2026 may bring more volatility and narrower returns, underscoring the importance of strategic positioning across maturities.
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Friday, January 2, 2026
Companies contained in today’s report:
ONE Group Hospitality (STKS)/OUTPERFORM – Development Update Twin Hospitality (TWNP)/MARKET PERFORM – A Management Change V2X (VVX)/OUTPERFORM – A Strong End to 2025 Awards
ONE Group Hospitality (STKS/$1.75 | Price Target: $5) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 Development Update Rating: OUTPERFORM
Milestones. ONE Group announced a number of development milestones achieved during 4Q25. These include: entering into ten restaurant asset-light development agreements; an expanded footprint in large-market, professional sports & entertainment stadiums; opening two new STK locations; launching Benihana-branded retail product; and planning capital-efficient growth for 2026.
Largest Agreement. The ONE Group has entered into its largest asset-light development agreement in the Company’s history, securing development rights for a total of ten restaurants, either Benihana or Benihana Express locations, throughout the Greater San Francisco Bay Area. The two Benihana joint venture locations are expected to open in 2026, with the remaining franchised and licensed locations to open over the next seven years.
Twin Hospitality (TWNP/$0.67) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 A Management Change Rating: MARKET PERFORM
Leadership Transition. Twin Hospitality announced Andy Wiederhorn has been named Chief Executive Officer of the Company and Roger Gondek has been named President of Twin Peaks, replacing former CEO and President Kim Boerema. While somewhat surprising, as Mr. Boerema was appointed CEO just this past May, the new leadership simplifies the leadership structure and optimizes resources while minimizing overhead, without any significant change in ability, in our view.
Roger Gondek. We believe the elevation of Mr. Gondek to President of Twin Peaks Restaurant to be the headline. Already serving as Chief Operating Officer of Twin Peaks since 2017, Mr. Gondek brings approximately 15 years of experience with the brand, including previous operations leadership roles with Twin Peaks’ largest franchisee. Mr. Gondek was the Executive Vice President of Operations of La Cima Restaurants, LLC, a franchiser of 43 Twin Peaks restaurants in Florida, Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, and Tennessee, from June 2011 to July 2017. Prior to La Cima Restaurants, Mr. Gondek was a Divisional Vice President at Hooters of America from October 2001 to February 2011. Mr. Gondek has a deep understanding of Twin Peaks markets, in our opinion.
V2X (VVX/$54.55 | Price Target: $72) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 A Strong End to 2025 Awards Rating: OUTPERFORM
DMEA ATSP. V2X subsidiary Vertex Aerospace has been named as an awardee to the Defense Microelectronics Activity (DMEA) Advanced Technology Support Program (ATSP), according to the daily Department of War contract award activity. With multi-billion dollar potential, this award caps a strong year for V2X. The Company has won places on multiple billion dollar contracts, which bode well for the future.
Details. DMEA ATSP is an ID/IQ contract with a $23.357 billion ceiling. This multiple award contract has a base ordering period of five years with two option periods, three years and two years respectively, to establish a 10 year ordering period. There are a total of 10 awardees, including Vertex. As an ID/IQ, Vertex will need to compete for each award, but we are confident the Company will receive its fair share of wins under the contract.
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Tuesday, December 30, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
Newsmax (NMAX)/OUTPERFORM – Expands Global Reach Snail (SNAL)/OUTPERFORM – Investor Day Highlights
Newsmax (NMAX/$8.2 | Price Target: $21) Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 Jacob Mutchler jmutchler@noblefcm.com | Expands Global Reach Rating: OUTPERFORM
Executing key growth driver. Newsmax Broadcasting is executing a focused international expansion strategy aimed at extending its U.S. news brand to global audiences through capital-efficient distribution and licensing agreements. By prioritizing multi-year carriage partnerships and selective localization, the company has expanded availability to more than 100 countries across five continents, positioning international markets as a growing driver of long-term reach and revenue diversification.
Recent distribution agreement. Newsmax secured new multi-year distribution agreements across Europe and the Eastern Mediterranean. The channel launched on Free TV in France, reaching approximately 3.5 million households, on HOT in Israel to more than 200,000 subscribers, and on Primetel in Cyprus. These partnerships deepen Newsmax’s presence in strategically important markets and increase access to U.S. and global news content for international audiences.
Snail (SNAL/$0.8923 | Price Target: $3) Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 Jacob Mutchler jmutchler@noblefcm.com | Investor Day Highlights Rating: OUTPERFORM
Investor Day. At the company’s 2025 Investor Day on December 16th in New York, management provided a strategic update on its product release roadmap and highlighted early progress in the development of its digital asset strategy. Notably, the company symbolically minted its first stablecoin known as USDO during the presentation. A replay of the presentation can be viewed here.
Digital strategy. The company aims to utilize the USDO token to integrate a digital payment system across its gaming platforms and create a rewards ecosystem. Importantly, this positions Snail to be an early mover in utilizing stablecoins in gaming, leveraging its sizeable user base of roughly 91 million ARK gamers.
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Wednesday, December 24, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
Comstock (LODE)/MARKET PERFORM – Rating Lowered to Market Perform from Outperform Great Lakes Dredge & Dock (GLDD)/OUTPERFORM – Another Pause for Offshore Wind MariMed Inc (MRMD)/OUTPERFORM – Rescheduling A Positive
Comstock (LODE/$3.93) Mark Reichman mreichman@noblefcm.com | (561) 999-2272 Hans Baldau hbaldau@noblefcm.com | Rating Lowered to Market Perform from Outperform Rating: MARKET PERFORM
Rating Lowered to Market Perform. While we had upgraded Comstock Inc. to Outperform on November 4, we have concluded our rating upgrade may have been too early, despite the share price appreciating ~33% from the date of our upgrade. It appears the company’s near-term capital needs remain significant, and we will reassess the value of the company’s businesses, once Comstock’s commercial scale recycling facility is operational and plans for the company’s mining assets are more fully realized. Moreover, we have been frustrated by the company’s promises to monetize non-core assets, including properties in Silver Springs, Nevada, without following through on its commitment. At this stage, we consider Comstock’s investment in Bioleum Corporation as a call option on its growth and success, which is subject to significant risk factors.
At the market offering. Comstock Inc. recently executed an At-the-Market Offering Agreement with Titan Partners Group LLC to offer and sell shares of common stock from time to time totaling up to $100.0 million. Titan Partners will be compensated at a commission rate equal to 3.0% of the gross sales price per share. Net proceeds will be used for general corporate purposes, including capital expenditures associated with commercializing subsequent industry scale and storage facilities for Comstock Metals, in addition to acquisitions, and technical, operational and human resource development expenses for supporting growth. Beyond acting as a headwind for capital appreciation, the ATM equity issuance could promote shareholder dilution.
Great Lakes Dredge & Dock (GLDD/$13.43 | Price Target: $14) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 Another Pause for Offshore Wind Rating: OUTPERFORM
Another Pause. The Trump Administration is pausing leases for five offshore wind projects, including the Sunrise Wind and Empire Wind 1 projects, both of which Great Lakes’ soon to be delivered Acadia vessel is contracted to provide subsea rock services. Described as due to national security risks identified by the Pentagon, the pause is currently not expected to exceed 90 days. If accurate, the pause should not have a significant impact on Great Lakes, in our opinion.
Details. The administration said the pause will give the Interior Department, which oversees offshore wind, time to work with the Department of War and other agencies to assess the possible ways to mitigate any security risks posed by the projects. In past research, the U.S. government has found that the movement of turbine blades and the highly reflective towers can create radar interference called “clutter.” The clutter caused by offshore wind projects obscures legitimate moving targets and generates false targets in the vicinity of wind projects. However, these risks were already considered in the permitting process.
MariMed Inc (MRMD/$0.1 | Price Target: $0.25) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 Rescheduling A Positive Rating: OUTPERFORM
Rescheduling. In what many are calling the single greatest cannabis reform in U.S. history with far-reaching benefits for years to come, President Trump signed an Executive Order to speed up the rescheduling of marijuana from Schedule I to the less severe Schedule III by directing the Attorney General to “complete the rulemaking process” around rescheduling marijuana to Schedule III “in the most expeditious manner in accordance with Federal law.”
Benefits. From a broad perspective, reclassification means the Federal government officially acknowledges that cannabis has widely accepted medical uses and low abuse potential. Rescheduling will accelerate accredited medical research into medications derived from cannabis.
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Tuesday, December 23, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
ACCO Brands (ACCO)/OUTPERFORM – An Acquisition Expands the Offerings FreightCar America (RAIL)/OUTPERFORM – Acquisition Strengthens RAIL’s Aftermarket Distribution Business Kuya Silver (KUYAF)/OUTPERFORM – Umm Hadid: Early-Stage Discovery The GEO Group (GEO)/OUTPERFORM – Expansion of Services
ACCO Brands (ACCO/$3.67 | Price Target: $9) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 An Acquisition Expands the Offerings Rating: OUTPERFORM
Acquisition. ACCO is acquiring EPOS, which provides a comprehensive range of premium enterprise wired and wireless headsets, and other audio solutions. The transaction enhances and broadens ACCO’s Kensington computer accessories portfolio into the large global enterprise headset category, estimated at $1.7 billion in size. We believe the acquisition aligns with management’s strategy to invest in markets with better growth profiles. The addition of EPOS will allow ACCO to deliver a more complete line of workspace technology accessory solutions to enterprise customers.
Details. The transaction is valued at $11.7 million, including up to $3.5 million in deferred payments, and will be funded by existing cash resources. The deal is expected to close in January 2026. EPOS generates approximately $80 million in annual revenue. ACCO expects to achieve cost synergies in the range of $10-$15 million over the next two years. ACCO expects to take approximately $7 million of restructuring charges. Management expects 2026 profit to be modestly positive.
FreightCar America (RAIL/$9.04 | Price Target: $18) Mark Reichman mreichman@noblefcm.com | (561) 999-2272 Hans Baldau hbaldau@noblefcm.com | Acquisition Strengthens RAIL’s Aftermarket Distribution Business Rating: OUTPERFORM
Acquisition of Carly Railcar Components. FreightCar America acquired Carly Railcar Components, LLC (CRC), a family-owned railcar component distributor founded in 1995. Carly operates warehouse facilities in Orange, Texas, and Irwin, Pennsylvania, supplying AAR M-1003 approved original equipment manufacturer (OEM) railcar components to repair shops, railroads, private car owners, and industrial customers. The company also operates a core exchange program for reconditioned parts. The purchase price was not disclosed.
Increased Scale and a Complementary Product Portfolio. The transaction strengthens RAIL’s aftermarket distribution business with a focus on running repair components, those parts that are frequently replaced to keep the railcar operational. This product category complements RAIL’s core offerings and product mix. RAIL customers will benefit from a larger catalog of ready-to-ship railcar components. The acquisition is expected to be immediately accretive, and RAIL expects to realize meaningful operational improvements across the combined network, including increased purchasing power with OEMs.
High-grade silver-gold system confirmed. Kuya Silver reported strong initial exploration results from the Umm Hadid Project in Saudi Arabia, confirming high-grade silver-gold mineralization over a large area measuring approximately 6.0 km by 2.5 km. In our view, the scale of the mineralized footprint and grade tenor materially de-risks the project at an early stage. Umm Hadid is operated by Silver Mining LLC, a joint venture between Sumou Holding and Kuya Silver.
Maiden drilling validates surface results. The first drill program comprised 29 diamond drill holes totaling roughly 5,000 meters across three target areas defined by surface sampling. Drilling returned high-grade intercepts of up to 1,483.9 g/t silver equivalent over two meters, with several additional intersections grading several hundred grams per tonne. Surface sampling of 460 grab samples averaged 86.1 g/t silver equivalent, with peak values reaching 1,359.8 g/t. We believe a strong gold-silver correlation supports the presence of a large hydrothermal system.
The GEO Group (GEO/$16.74 | Price Target: $35) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 Expansion of Services Rating: OUTPERFORM
New Award. GEO Group’s BI subsidiary has been awarded a contract by ICE for the provision of skip tracing services. Skip tracing services entail enhanced location research with identifiable information, commercial data verification, and physical observation to verify current address information and investigate alternative address information for individuals on the federal government’s non-detained docket. We view the announcement favorably and continue to believe there will be additional business to follow from ICE and GEO’s other government partners.
Details. The new contract has a term of two years, with an initial term of one year, effective December 16, 2025, and an additional one-year period. The estimated revenue value of the two-year contract is up to approximately $121 million. The format appears similar to the recent ISAP award won by BI, in our view.
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Monday, December 22, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
AZZ (AZZ)/OUTPERFORM – Updating Estimates; Maintaining Positive Outlook and Outperform Rating Bit Digital (BTBT)/OUTPERFORM – WhiteFiber Snags a New Contract
AZZ (AZZ/$107.8 | Price Target: $125) Mark Reichman mreichman@noblefcm.com | (561) 999-2272 Hans Baldau hbaldau@noblefcm.com | Updating Estimates; Maintaining Positive Outlook and Outperform Rating Rating: OUTPERFORM
Updating estimates. While our fiscal year 2026 estimates are unchanged,we have increased our fiscal year 2027 adjusted EBITDA and EPS estimates to $387.8 million and $6.45 from $386.2 million and $6.41, respectively. Our estimates reflect modestly higher revenue for the Precoat Metals segment and lower interest expense relative to prior estimates. We have increased our FY 2027 capital expenditure estimate to $80 million from $70 million to reflect greater reinvestment in the base business, including capacity expansions. Our estimates do not reflect acquisitions until they are announced.
The benefits of a strong cash flow profile. After having significantly reduced its debt profile, AZZ continues to prioritize strategic bolt-on acquisitions as a central component of its growth strategy. In fiscal 2026 and beyond, capital allocation priorities have shifted to strategic M&A, high-return organic investments, and return of capital through growing dividends and share repurchases. We anticipate an annual increase to the quarterly dividend following the lead established during the first quarter of FY 2026. Based on its cash flow profile, we think share repurchases may go beyond a level that simply offsets dilution from management incentive compensation.
Bit Digital (BTBT/$2.23 | Price Target: $5.5) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 WhiteFiber Snags a New Contract Rating: OUTPERFORM
New Contract. Late last week, Bit Digital’s key investment, WhiteFiber, announced its Enovum Data Centers Corp. subsidiary has executed a long-term colocation agreement with Nscale Global Holdings, an AI infrastructure and cloud services provider serving enterprise and public sector customers. The contract represents approximately $865 million in contracted revenue over the initial 10-year term.
NC-1. The agreement secures the first 40 megawatt delivery of critical IT load at WhiteFiber’s flagship NC-1 data center campus in Madison, North Carolina. The contract includes contractual annual rate escalators and required non-recurring installation services, but excludes electricity and certain other costs passed through to the customer. Nscale is deploying the capacity to power the AI infrastructure of leading global investment grade technology customers.
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Friday, December 19, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
Greenwich LifeSciences, Inc. (GLSI)/OUTPERFORM – FLAMINGO-01 Open-Label Arm Reports Preliminary Results and Reaches An Important Milestone Saga Communications (SGA)/OUTPERFORM – A Shareholder First Centric Company
Greenwich LifeSciences, Inc. (GLSI/$12.39 | Price Target: $45) Robert LeBoyer rleboyer@noblefcm.com | (212) 896-4625 FLAMINGO-01 Open-Label Arm Reports Preliminary Results and Reaches An Important Milestone Rating: OUTPERFORM
Data Reported From the Open-Label Arm Of The FLAMINGO Trial Greenwich LifeSciences announced preliminary Phase 3 results from the open-label, non-HLA-A*02arm of its FLAMINGO-01 trial. The data showed a reduction in breast cancer recurrence rates of about 80% for patients that completed the primary vaccination series (PIS) ofGLSI-100. In addition, the first patient has completed the full 3-year treatment.
FLAMINGO0-01 Divides Patients By Immune Classification. The FLAMINGO-01 trial divides patients by their HLA types, a system of classifying a patient’s immune response. Patients with the most common HLA type, HLA-A*02, have enter one of the double-blind placebo-controlled arms of the trial. About 250 patients with other HLA types have been entered into an open-label portion, referred to as non-HLA-A*02.
Saga Communications (SGA/$11.35 | Price Target: $18) Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 Jacob Mutchler jmutchler@noblefcm.com | A Shareholder First Centric Company Rating: OUTPERFORM
Share repurchase. On December 15, the company announced the completion of a sizeable share buyback that was conducted through a privately negotiated transaction. Notably, the company repurchased 184,215 shares for approximately $2.1 million, or $11.50 per share, which represented roughly 2.8% of the 6,556,621 shares outstanding as of December 11.
Tower sale. Importantly, the share buyback was largely expected following the sale of 22 tower sites for approximately $10.7 million in late October. Net proceeds of $8.7 million were earmarked to be used for share repurchases.
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Thursday, December 18, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
Summit Midstream Corp (SMC)/OUTPERFORM – A Multi-Year Reset Positions Summit for Growth
Summit Midstream Corp (SMC/$26.59 | Price Target: $47) Mark Reichman mreichman@noblefcm.com | (561) 999-2272 Hans Baldau hbaldau@noblefcm.com | A Multi-Year Reset Positions Summit for Growth Rating: OUTPERFORM
Initiating coverage with an Outperform rating. We are initiating coverage of Summit Midstream Corporation with an Outperform rating and a price target of $47 per share. Summit is a diversified midstream operator headquartered in Houston, Texas, focused on developing, owning, and operating strategically located natural gas, crude oil, and produced water infrastructure across several key U.S. unconventional resource basins.
Strategically positioned. Summit owns and operates midstream infrastructure in major U.S. unconventional resource basins, including: 1) the Williston Basin in North Dakota, 2) the Denver-Julesburg (DJ) Basin in Colorado and Wyoming, 3) the Fort Worth Basin in Texas, 4) the Piceance Basin in Colorado, and 5) the Arkoma Basin in Oklahoma. The company also holds a 70% majority interest in and operates the Double E Pipeline, a natural gas transmission system connecting the Delaware Basin to the Waha Hub in Texas. The diversified footprint provides Summit with exposure to multiple producing regions.
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Wednesday, December 17, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
Tonix Pharmaceuticals (TNXP)/OUTPERFORM – Tonix Acquires Another Pipeline Product For Neuropathic Pain
Tonix Pharmaceuticals (TNXP/$18.6 | Price Target: $70) Robert LeBoyer rleboyer@noblefcm.com | (212) 896-4625 Jacob Mutchler jmutchler@noblefcm.com | Tonix Acquires Another Pipeline Product For Neuropathic Pain Rating: OUTPERFORM
Tonix Announced Acquisition of A Non-Opioid Pain Reliever. Tonix continues to build its neurological pain pipeline with the licensing of a Sigma-1 receptor antagonist for development in neuropathic pain relief. Published studies on the Sigma-1 receptor’s mechanism of action have shown activity in pain and several neurological diseases. We see this as an extension of the company’s product line in neurology, including products for fibromyalgia/pain, acute stress disorder, major depressive disorder, and migraine headache.
TNX-4900 Is Highly Selective For The Sigma-1 Receptor. The new molecule, known as TNX-4900, is a small molecule developed to be highly selective for the Sigma-1 receptor, avoiding the Sigma-2 and other Sigma receptor-family members. It has been tested in multiple models of pain and selected for its efficacy and safety profile. TNX-4900 has also shown ability to cross the blood-brain barrier, with favorable adsorption, distribution, metabolism and elimination (ADME) properties.
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Tuesday, December 16, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
MAIA Biotechnology (MAIA)/OUTPERFORM – Phase 3 THIO-104 Begins, Capping Off A Significant Year
MAIA Biotechnology (MAIA/$1.35 | Price Target: $14) Robert LeBoyer rleboyer@noblefcm.com | (212) 896-4625 Phase 3 THIO-104 Begins, Capping Off A Significant Year Rating: OUTPERFORM
Phase 3 Trial Has Treated Its First Patient. MAIA has begun its pivotal Phase 3 trial for THIO in NSCLC (non-small cell Lung Cancer), meeting our expected timeframe. In October, the Phase 2 THIO-101 trial began its Part C and will continue as the Phase 3 is running. These trials are the latest in a series of positive announcements for THIO (ateganosine) clinical development, keeping it on schedule for additional milestones in 2026.
Trial Design Can Lead To First Approval. The Phase 3 THIO-104 is an open-label trial is testing ateganosine in combination with an CPI (immune checkpoint inhibitor) as a third-line treatment in patients who are resistant to CPIs and chemotherapy. Patients who have failed two courses of chemotherapy including CPIs will be randomized into two groups to receive either the ateganosine/CPI combination or standard of care chemotherapy. The primary endpoint is Overall Survival (OS).
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Monday, December 15, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
DLH Holdings (DLHC)/OUTPERFORM – Looking Toward a Brighter Future E.W. Scripps (SSP)/OUTPERFORM – Highlights From NobleCon21 NN (NNBR)/OUTPERFORM – Forms Strategic Committee
DLH Holdings (DLHC/$5.71 | Price Target: $10) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 Looking Toward a Brighter Future Rating: OUTPERFORM
Overview. Fiscal 2025, and the start of fiscal 2026, continued the loss of contracts to small business set asides. While the loss of the Head Start contract and the expected eventual loss of all of the CMOP locations is impacting operating results today, we believe the resolution of these set aside contracts removes a big overhang from the business and enables the Company to grow from a solid base of higher value-added technology-powered applications business.
4Q25. Revenue fell 15.8% y-o-y to $81.2 million, driven by the loss of CMOP locations, as well as other set aside contracts. Gross margin fell to 17.1% from 19.9% a year ago. DLH reported a net loss of $920,000, or a loss of $0.06/sh., compared with net income of $2.3 million, or EPS of $0.16, in 4Q24. Adjusted EBITDA fell to $6.6 million from $10.7 million. We were at $83.5 million, $250,000, $0.02/sh., and $8.15 million, respectively.
E.W. Scripps (SSP/$4.39 | Price Target: $10) Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 Highlights From NobleCon21 Rating: OUTPERFORM
NobleCon21. On December 3rd, management participated in a fireside chat at NobleCon21 at Florida Atlantic University (FAU) in Boca Raton, Florida. The discussion featured Jason Combes, CFO, and focused on the company’s operational resilience, strategic growth initiatives, and the evaluation of a recent takeover offer. A replay of the fireside chat is available here.
Strategic portfolio pivots are driving outperformance. The company has decisively shifted key assets toward growth verticals to counter industry headwinds. A focused sports strategy adding NHL teams locally and the WNBA/NWSL on its national ION network is delivering results, with core advertising guided to be up 10% in Q4, against a declining sector. Concurrently, its digital transition is accelerating, with connected TV revenue for its networks growing 35% and expected to reach $120 million this year.
NN (NNBR/$1.27 | Price Target: $6) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 Forms Strategic Committee Rating: OUTPERFORM
Strategic Committee. On Friday, NN announced the Board of Directors has formed a Strategic Committee to oversee a review of strategic and financial alternatives to further enhance shareholder value. Given the success to date of management’s transformation plan, the Board feels now is the time to take a fresh comprehensive look at additional ways to unlock value for shareholders.
Committee Details. The Strategic Committee is comprised of three independent directors, Raynard Benvenuti, Jeri Harman, and Thomas Wilson. All have been tasked with evaluating a broad spectrum of strategic, financial and business configuration options for the Company. The Board has engaged Houlihan Lokey, as the Company’s financial advisor.
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Friday, December 11, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
Cadrenal Therapeutics (CVKD)/OUTPERFORM – New Anticoagulant Acquired For Heparin-Induced Thrombocytopenia Superior Group of Companies (SGC)/OUTPERFORM – Highlights From NobleCon21
Cadrenal Therapeutics (CVKD/$11 | Price Target: $45) Robert LeBoyer rleboyer@noblecapitalmarkets.com | (212)896-4625 New Anticoagulant Acquired For Heparin-Induced Thrombocytopenia Rating: OUTPERFORM
Cadrenal Continues Build Its Anticoagulation Pipeline. Cadrenal has acquired VLX-1005, a platelet inhibitor from Veralox Therapeutics, adding another novel small-molecule anticoagulant to its pipeline. VLX-1005 is a selective inhibitor of 12-LOX, an enzyme that initiates a signaling pathway for platelet-mediated inflammation and leads to heparin induced thrombocytopenia (HIT).
VLX-1005 has Orphan Drug Designation from the FDA and EMA. VLX-1005 Has Completed A Phase 2 Clinical Trial. Two Phase 1 studies showed safety and tolerability, followed by a Phase 2 trial in patients with suspected heparin induced thrombocytopenia (HIT). Interim results to date showed reductions in thromboembolic events.
Superior Group of Companies (SGC/$10.20 | Price Target: $16) Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 Highlights From NobleCon21 Rating: OUTPERFORM
NobleCon21. On December 3rd, management presented at NobleCon20 at Florida Atlantic University (FAU) in Boca Raton, Florida. The presentation was conducted by Michael Benstock, Chairman & CEO, and Mike Koempel, CFO. The executives highlighted the company’s century-old operating history, its three diversified and profitable segments, branded products, healthcare apparel, nearshore contact centers, and a capital allocation strategy focused on shareholder returns. A replay of the presentation can be viewed here.
Healthcare. The healthcare apparel segment boasts multi-channel reach across retailers, ecommerce platforms, uniform stores, hospital systems, and specialty distributors. More than two million professionals wear the company’s brands, which includes Wink, Carhartt-branded scrubs, and Fashion Seal Healthcare. Notably, the company is well positioned for expansion supported by demographic aging and persistent healthcare labor shortages.
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Thursday, December 11, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
Aurania Resources (AUIAF)/OUTPERFORM – Advancing Exploration in Brittany, France Euroseas (ESEA)/OUTPERFORM – New Fleet Charters and NobleCon21 Highlights The Beachbody Company (BODI)/OUTPERFORM – Highlights From NobleCon21 Townsquare Media (TSQ)/OUTPERFORM – Highlights from Noblecon21
Aurania Resources (AUIAF/$0.15 | Price Target: $0.3) Mark Reichman mreichman@noblefcm.com | (561) 999-2272 Hans Baldau hbaldau@noblefcm.com | Advancing Exploration in Brittany, France Rating: OUTPERFORM
Exploration Licenses Granted in Brittany. Aurania, through a wholly owned French subsidiary, has been granted three new exploration licenses for polymetallic metals, including gold, in the Brittany Peninsula of northwestern France. It represents a new opportunity for Aurania in a stable mining jurisdiction with developed infrastructure. Initial mining inventory studies conducted by the French Geological Survey (BRGM) confirmed the presence of gold associated with strategic metals over more than 150 kilometers along a shear zone.
Precious and Strategic Metals. The permits allow Aurania to explore the South American Shear Zone, a major crustal fault where mineralization, including antimony, tungsten, tin, zinc, and copper, accompanied by gold and other metals, have been deposited. The Brittany Peninsula is a highly prospective area that can be considered a greenfield district. Aurania will proceed with stakeholder engagement, while advancing preparations for an airborne geophysical survey and subsequent field activities.
Euroseas (ESEA/$59 | Price Target: $65) Mark Reichman mreichman@noblefcm.com | (561) 999-2272 Hans Baldau hbaldau@noblefcm.com | New Fleet Charters and NobleCon21 Highlights Rating: OUTPERFORM
New time charters. Euroseas Ltd. announced new three-year forward time charter contracts for three of its modern, fuel-efficient 2,800 TEU containerships, the M/V Leonidas Z, M/V Gregos, and M/V Terataki. All three charters are for a minimum period of 35 to a maximum period of 37 months at the charterer’s option, and will be performed at a gross daily rate of $30,000. The new charter periods are expected to generate approximately $75 million of EBITDA over the minimum contracted period and lift charter coverage for 2026, 2027, and 2028 to roughly 82.5%, 66.5%, and 42%, respectively.
Updating estimates. Reflecting the updated coverage, we are modestly reducing our 2026 estimates. We now forecast 2026 revenue, adjusted EBITDA, and EPS of $229.3 million, $161.4 million, and $17.39, respectively, compared with our prior estimates of $230.0 million, $162.1 million, and $17.49. Despite the slight downward revisions, Euroseas’ contracted rates, and 2026 outlook continue to show strong year-over-year growth.
The Beachbody Company (BODI/$12.09 | Price Target: $15) Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 Highlights From NobleCon21 Rating: OUTPERFORM
NobleCon21. On December 3rd, the company presented at NobleCon21 at Florida Atlantic University (FAU) in Boca Raton, Florida. The presentation was conducted by Mark Goldston, Executive Chairman, Carl Daikeler, Co-founder and CEO, and Brad Ramberg, CFO. The team highlighted its favorable digital fitness and nutrition businesses and the successful completion of a multi-year operational turnaround. A replay of the presentation can be viewed here.
Digital. The digital fitness segment is supported by 900,000 subscribers and roughly 140 programs, with over 10,000 hours of content. This segment provides predictable recurring revenue, with gross margins in the high 80% range, efficient customer acquisition, and cross-selling leverage as the company expands into retail distribution and repositions its nutrition business.
Townsquare Media (TSQ/$5.24 | Price Target: $15) Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 Highlights from Noblecon21 Rating: OUTPERFORM
Highlights key growth drivers. On December 3rd, management presented at NobleCon20 at Florida Atlantic University (FAU) in Boca Raton, Florida. The presentation, conducted by Bill Wilson, CEO, Stu Rosenstein, co-founder and CFO, and Claire Yenicay, EVP of IR, underscored the company’s successful evolution into a digital-first local media powerhouse and its sustainable financial model. A replay of the presentation can be found here.
Digital Transformation Fully Executed. Townsquare has evolved from a traditional radio broadcaster into a digital-first local media company, with digital divisions now driving the majority of revenue and profit. Ignite (digital advertising) and Townsquare Interactive (subscription-based marketing solutions) are the company’s primary growth engines for the long term.
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Wednesday, December 10, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
Alliance Entertainment Holding (AENT)/OUTPERFORM – Highlights From NobleCon21 Greenwich LifeSciences, Inc. (GLSI)/OUTPERFORM – Phase 3 FLAMINGO-01 Trial Reaches Enrollment Milestones Nicola Mining Inc. (HUSIF)/OUTPERFORM – Sustaining Momentum Vince Holding Corp. (VNCE)/OUTPERFORM – Digital Platform Gains Momentum
Alliance Entertainment Holding (AENT/$8.04 | Price Target: $11) Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 Jacob Mutchler jmutchler@noblefcm.com | Highlights From NobleCon21 Rating: OUTPERFORM
NobleCon21. On December 3rd, management presented at NobleCon21 at Florida Atlantic University (FAU) in Boca Raton, Florida. The presentation, conducted by Jeff Walker, CEO, highlighted the company’s record financial performance, dominant wholesale distribution platform, and favorable growth initiative in authenticated collectibles. A replay of the presentation can be viewed here.
Dominant wholesale platform. As the largest wholesale distributor of physical entertainment in the U.S., the company’s scaled, automated logistics operations provide a significant competitive moat. Furthermore, it serves as the category manager and primary fulfillment partner for major retailers like Walmart, Target, and Amazon, managing both in-store inventory and direct-to-consumer e-commerce shipments.
Phase 3 FLAMINGO-01 Trial Reaches Enrollment Milestone. Greenwich Pharmaceuticals has completed enrollment in the open-label arm (non HLA-A*2 patients) in the Phase 3 FLAMINGO-01 trial, its trial testing GLSI-100 for prevention of breast cancer recurrence in high-risk patients. The patients are stratified according to their HLA (human leukocyte antigen) types, immune system characteristics that classify an individual’s potential response to antigens. Over 1,000 patients have been screened for the trial at over 140 clinical sites in the US and Europe.
Greenwich Pharmaceuticals Presented At the NobleCon21 Conference. CEO Snehal Patel spoke at the annual NobleCon21 conference. He presented a brief summary of GLSI-100 and the clinical trial, followed by a fireside chat discussion, and questions from the audience. To listen to the presentation, click here.
Nicola Mining Inc. (HUSIF/$0.75 | Price Target: $1.2) Mark Reichman mreichman@noblefcm.com | (561) 999-2272 Hans Baldau hbaldau@noblefcm.com | Sustaining Momentum Rating: OUTPERFORM
2025 Milestones. At New Craigmont, Nicola recently completed a drilling program with assay results pending. At the Merritt Mill, Nicola transitioned from toll milling to long-term precious metals production supported by multiple sources of feed. A multi-year exploration permit and a 10-year mine lease extension further support renewed exploration and the potential reopening of the Treasure Mountain Silver Project. Nicola also secured two key permits for its wholly owned gravel pit and completed construction of its ready-mix cement plant, positioning the company to generate additional revenues to support operations. Finally, Nicola completed the mine development required for a 10,000-tonne bulk sample at the Dominion Creek Gold Project, with a restart planned for July 2026.
What’s Next? 2026 value drivers include: (1) operating the Merritt Mill at full capacity, (2) continued drilling at New Craigmont to vector toward the core of a copper porphyry system, (3) initiating exploration and drilling at the Treasure Mountain Silver Project, and (4) processing high-grade ore from the Dominion Creek bulk sample.
Solid Q3 Results. The company reported Q3 revenue of $85.1 million, beating our estimate of $80.0 million by 6.4%. Adj. EBITDA of $6.5 million, strongly outperformed our estimate of $1.7 million by 289%. The strong operating results were driven by growth in the wholesale and direct-to-consumer channels, its e-commerce platform, and by effective tariff mitigation strategies.
Digital momentum. Notably, the company’s e-commerce platform experienced triple-digit traffic growth late in the quarter, creating a strong backdrop for the launch of its dropship initiative. While the initiative currently offers only footwear, the company highlighted encouraging early results and plans to expand product offerings, leveraging its partnership with Authentic Brands. In our view, the dropship strategy provides the company with a capital-efficient way to broaden product offerings while gathering customer insight.
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Tuesday, December 9, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
Comstock (LODE)/OUTPERFORM – Bioleum Expands Platform With Strategic Acquisitions NeuroSense Therapeutics Ltd. (NRSN)/OUTPERFORM – Webinar Highlight Regulatory and Clinical Trial Progress Saga Communications (SGA)/OUTPERFORM – Highlights From NobleCon21 Snail (SNAL)/OUTPERFORM – Highlights From NobleCon21 The ODP Corporation (ODP)/MARKET PERFORM – Acquisition Approved
Comstock (LODE/$3.17 | Price Target: $6.75) Mark Reichman mreichman@noblefcm.com | (561) 999-2272 Hans Baldau hbaldau@noblefcm.com | Bioleum Expands Platform With Strategic Acquisitions Rating: OUTPERFORM
Bioleum Expands Feedstock Capabilities with Hexas Acquisition. Bioleum Corporation, of which Comstock is a strategic investor, acquired Hexas Biomass Inc. for approximately $6.5 million in stock, cash, and convertible debt, securing ownership of all Hexas intellectual property and associated high-yield energy crop technologies. Hexas’ crops deliver 25–30 dry metric tons per acre, above conventional forestry yields, and can be cultivated on marginal lands without competing with food production. When paired with Bioleum’s refining platform, these crops enable production of more than 100 barrels of biofuel per acre per year, strengthening long-term supply certainty and improving economics for Bioleum’s facilities.
Strategic Value of an Integrated Feedstock Model. Bioleum expects Hexas’ scalable, low-cost feedstock model to “anchor” each refinery deployment, reducing regional biomass variability and improving reliability, pricing, and throughput across its system. Management emphasized that pairing purpose-grown crops with Bioleum’s refining technology materially improves risk-adjusted economics across future projects and accelerates commercialization.
Discussions Of Clinical Trials, Regulatory Developments, Partnerships. NeuroSense held a webinar to review recent regulatory developments related to its Phase 3 PARAGON trial, early approval for ALS in Canada, the Phase 2 study in Alzheimer’s Disease, and product partnerships. There was also a detailed discussion of the Phase 3 PARAGON trial design and milestones for the coming year.
Phase 3 PARAGON Trial Is Expected To Begin In Mid-2026. NeuroSense has received clearance from the FDA to begin the Phase 3 trial testing PrimeC in ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis). The trial design is based on the data from the Phase 2b PARDIGM trial that showed improved survival with biomarkers correlating with slowing disease progression and reduction in markers of the disease process.
Saga Communications (SGA/$11.55 | Price Target: $18) Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 Jacob Mutchler jmutchler@noblefcm.com | Highlights From NobleCon21 Rating: OUTPERFORM
NobleCon21. On December 3rd, management presented at NobleCon21 at Florida Atlantic University (FAU) in Boca Raton, Florida. The presentation, conducted by Sam Bush, CFO, and Chris Forgi, President & CEO, highlighted the company’s digital pivot, pristine balance sheet, and capital return strategy. A replay of the presentation can be viewed here.
Hyper-local focus. The company operates in 27 small-to-medium markets, which allows for deep integration with local advertisers. Furthermore, the company is positioned as a trustworthy guide in a confusing digital ad landscape, offering simple and consistent messaging across both traditional radio and digital mediums, utilizing its unique blended approach.
Snail (SNAL/$0.9387 | Price Target: $3) Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 Jacob Mutchler jmutchler@noblefcm.com | Highlights From NobleCon21 Rating: OUTPERFORM
NobleCon21. On December 3rd, management presented at NobleCon21 at Florida Atlantic University (FAU) in Boca Raton, Florida. The presentation, conducted by Heidi Chow, CFO, and Jim Tsai, Board Member and Advisor, highlighted the company’s established franchise strength, near-term catalysts, and its Stablecoin strategy. A replay of the presentation can be viewed here.
Sustainable franchise power. The company’s core franchise is ARK, a premier survival game with over 4.2 billion hours played. This franchise provides a durable revenue base through game sales, downloadable content (DLC) sales, and in-game purchases. Notably, a favorable near-term catalyst is the release of the Lost Colony DLC, which demonstrated strong pre-sales since June.
The ODP Corporation (ODP/$27.99) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 Acquisition Approved Rating: MARKET PERFORM
Acquisition Approved. On December 5th, The ODP Corporation held a special meeting of stockholders at which holders of ODP’s common stock approved the acquisition of ODP by an affiliate of Atlas Holdings for $28 per share. With shareholder approval, the acquisition is expected to be completed on December 10th, at which time ODP common shares will cease to trade.
Details. Of the 30,117,856 shares of ODP Common Stock issued and outstanding at the close of business on October 21, 2025, the record date for the ODP Special Meeting, 22,656,187 shares were present or represented by proxy at the ODP Special Meeting. A total of 22,540,259 shares voted in favor of the acquisition.
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Monday, December 8, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
Bit Digital (BTBT)/OUTPERFORM – Monthly Ethereum Metrics Great Lakes Dredge & Dock (GLDD)/OUTPERFORM – NobleCon21: Market Opportunity Remains Strong NN (NNBR)/OUTPERFORM – NobleCon21 – Transformed and Ready to Launch Steelcase (SCS)/MARKET PERFORM – HNI Merger Approved The GEO Group (GEO)/OUTPERFORM – NobleCon21: Growth and More Growth Potential
Bit Digital (BTBT/$2.22 | Price Target: $5.5) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 Monthly Ethereum Metrics Rating: OUTPERFORM
Data. Bit Digital reported its monthly Ethereum (“ETH”) treasury and staking metrics for the month of November 2025. As of November 30, 2025, the Company held approximately 154,398.7 ETH, versus 153,547 ETH at the end of October. Included in the ETH holdings were approximately 15,146.0 ETH and ETH-equivalents held in an externally managed fund. The Company staked an additional 5,141 ETH during the month. The Company’s total staked ETH was approximately 137,621, or about 89.1% of its total holdings as of November 30th.
Yield and Value. Staking operations generated approximately 328.5 ETH in rewards during the period, representing an annualized yield of approximately 3.05%. Based on a closing ETH price of $2,991.90, as of November 30, 2025, the market value of the Company’s ETH holdings was approximately $461.9 million.
Funding Remains Strong. Even though the Federal government is operating under a CR, business has been as usual for Great Lakes. Funding for the U.S. Army Corps is at a record level of $8.7 billion, the seventh consecutive year of record budgets for the Corps. The $1.5 billion Disaster Relief funding remains available. And under WRDA several large capital projects, such as New York and Texas, are expected to come to market in the next few years.
NN (NNBR/$1.22 | Price Target: $6) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 NobleCon21 – Transformed and Ready to Launch Rating: OUTPERFORM
NobleCon21. We had the pleasure of hosting NN CFO Chris Bohnert and COO Tim French for NobleCon21. Highlights of the presentation include the ongoing transformation, an expanded TAM, and a reduced reliance on the U.S. auto business. The presentation can be found at https://www.channelchek.com/videos/nn-inc-noblecon21-presentation-replay.
Expanding the TAM. Management’s strategic transformation has expanded NN’s overall addressable market. New adjacent complementary markets such as Data Centers, Alternative Energy, Drones, Robots, Laser Optics, to name a few, will provide the Company with higher margins, faster growing markets, and reduced cyclicality going forward.
Steelcase (SCS/$16.14) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 HNI Merger Approved Rating: MARKET PERFORM
Approval. On Friday, shareholders of both Steelcase and HNI Corporation voted to approve the merger of the two companies, as originally disclosed on August 4th. Recall, HNI is acquiring Steelcase in a cash and stock transaction, with a total consideration of approximately $2.2 billion to Steelcase common shareholders at the time of announcement. Under the terms of the agreement, Steelcase shareholders will receive $7.20 in cash and 0.2192 shares of HNI common stock for each share of Steelcase they own.
Details. At the special meeting of Steelcase’s shareholders held Friday, approximately 99.60% of the shares voted on the Steelcase Merger Proposal, representing approximately 69.93% of the total outstanding shares of Steelcase common stock as of October 14, 2025, were cast in favor of the Steelcase Merger Proposal.
The GEO Group (GEO/$17.11 | Price Target: $35) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 NobleCon21: Growth and More Growth Potential Rating: OUTPERFORM
NobleCon21. We had the pleasure of hosting GEO CEO David Donahue at NobleCon21. Management spoke about the significant opportunity and growth in the secure services business for ICE and growth opportunities in the other businesses. A replay of the presentation can be found at https://www.channelchek.com/videos/the-geo-group-noblecon21-presentation-replay.
ICE. Just 1.5% of the nearly 17 million estimated total alien population in the U.S. is currently being managed, providing significant growth opportunity both in the secure services business as well as under the ISAP program. ICE’s goal remains for 100,000 beds. The current ICE population is over 65,000.
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Friday, December 5, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
Century Lithium Corp. (CYDVF)/OUTPERFORM – A New Dimension to Angel Island
Century Lithium Corp. (CYDVF/$0.20025 | Price Target: $2.3) Mark Reichman mreichman@noblefcm.com | (561) 999-2272 Hans Baldau hbaldau@noblefcm.com | A New Dimension to Angel Island Rating: OUTPERFORM
Recovery of rare earth elements (REE). Century recovered rare earth elements from leach solutions generated from its Angel Island Lithium Project. Initial testing indicated that high rare earth element recoveries may be achieved without impacting lithium recovery. Producing a secondary REE-rich product from the leach solution offers the potential to enhance Angel Island’s project economics, while fulfilling broader government and industry objectives of promoting a North American critical mineral supply chain to reduce dependence on China.
The process works. Leach solutions produced from Angel Island claystone contain dysprosium, gadolinium, neodymium, and praseodymium, along with higher concentrations of scandium, lanthanum, and cerium. Ion-exchange achieved greater than 97% recovery of the identified REEs and critical metals, without affecting the company’s core lithium recovery process and production of high-purity lithium carbonate.
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Friday, November 28, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
Aurania Resources (AUIAF)/OUTPERFORM – The Value of a Diversified Portfolio
Aurania Resources (AUIAF/$0.1 | Price Target: $0.3) Mark Reichman mreichman@noblefcm.com | (561) 999-2272 Hans Baldau hbaldau@noblefcm.com | The Value of a Diversified Portfolio Rating: OUTPERFORM
Advancing parallel projects. In addition to its exploration project in Ecuador, the company is advancing two projects in France, a gold exploration project in Brittany, and a nickel recovery project in Corsica. In October, Aurania announced a third project near Turin, Italy, where it is evaluating the recovery of nickel and cobalt from the waste tailings of the former Balangero asbestos mine. The projects in Corsica and Italy offer significant environmental benefits for the nearby communities, along with the economic benefit of recovering valuable critical metals.
Private placement financing. On November 20, Aurania announced a non-brokered private placement financing of up to 12,500,000 units at a price of C$0.12 per unit to raise gross proceeds of up to C$1,500,000. Each unit will consist of one common share and one common share purchase warrant. A warrant will entitle the holder to purchase one common share at an exercise price of C$0.25 per warrant for a period of 24 months following the closing of the offering.
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Wednesday, November 26, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
GDEV (GDEV)/OUTPERFORM – Efficient Capital Use Drives Improved 2025 Outlook Hemisphere Energy (HMENF)/OUTPERFORM – Third Quarter Results In Line with Expectations
GDEV (GDEV/$20.65 | Price Target: $70) Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 Jacob Mutchler jmutchler@noblefcm.com | Efficient Capital Use Drives Improved 2025 Outlook Rating: OUTPERFORM
Strong Q3 results. The company reported Q3 revenue of $97.6 million and adj. EBITDA of $26.7 million. While revenue was slightly below our estimate of $100.0 million, adj. EBITDA strongly outperformed our estimate of $7.2 million. Notably, the strong adj. EBITDA figure was largely driven by more efficient use of marketing spend, which decreased by 43% from the year earlier comparable period.
Key operating metrics. Bookings and monthly paying users (MPU) decreased by 4% and 16%, respectively, compared with the prior year period, but the decrease was expected as the company is focused on the quality of gameplay and retaining high-quality users. Furthermore, the company’s strategy is showing early signs of success, as average bookings per paying user (ABPPU) increased from $92 in Q3’24 to $107 in Q3’25.
Hemisphere Energy (HMENF/$1.4 | Price Target: $2.45) Mark Reichman mreichman@noblefcm.com | (561) 999-2272 Hans Baldau hbaldau@noblefcm.com | Third Quarter Results In Line with Expectations Rating: OUTPERFORM
Third quarter financial results. Hemisphere reported revenue of C$23.1 million in Q3, down from C$26.7 million in the prior-year period, but slightly above our estimate of C$21.6 million, due to better-than-expected pricing. Net income totaled C$6.9 million, or C$0.07 per share, compared to C$8.6 million, or C$0.09 per share, last year, and in line with our forecast of C$6.9 million, or C$0.07 per share. Average daily production of 3,571 boe/d (99% heavy oil) declined 1% year-over-year due to summer workover downtime, but wasn’t far off from our estimate of 3,606 boe/d. Adjusted funds flow (AFF) from operations was C$10.1 million, or C$0.10 per share, roughly in line with our estimate of C$10.0 million, or C$0.10 per share.
Updating estimates. Reflecting slightly better than expected Q3 results but modestly lower 2025 production guidance of 3,600–3,700 boe/d, we are adjusting our full-year forecasts. We now expect 2025 revenue of C$92.7 million, compared to our prior estimate of C$93.7 million. Our operating cost assumption increased modestly to C$38.1 million from C$37.9 million. We now project 2025 net income of C$26.5 million, or C$0.27 per share, versus our previous forecast of C$27.4 million, or C$0.27 per share. AFF is projected at C$40.0 million, up from our earlier estimate of C$41.0 million. For 2026, we are holding our forecast steady with revenue of C$93.7 million, net income of C$27.7 million, or C$0.29 per share, and AFF of C$39.7 million
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Tuesday, November 25, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
Century Lithium Corp. (CYDVF)/OUTPERFORM – A Strong Treasury and Visible Progress Codere Online (CDRO)/OUTPERFORM – Looking Past The Noise Comstock (LODE)/OUTPERFORM – Comstock Metals Advances Toward 2026 Commissioning SEGG Media Corporation (SEGG)/OUTPERFORM – Waiting For Revenues To Ramp V2X (VVX)/OUTPERFORM – New Awards Momentum Continues
Century Lithium Corp. (CYDVF/$0.2 | Price Target: $2.3) Mark Reichman mreichman@noblefcm.com | (561) 999-2272 Hans Baldau hbaldau@noblefcm.com | A Strong Treasury and Visible Progress Rating: OUTPERFORM
Progress on multiple fronts. Century Lithium’s 100%-owned Angel Island Lithium Project hosts one of the largest known sediment-hosted lithium resources in the United States. Century is advancing an integrated end-to-end solution to convert lithium-bearing claystone into battery-grade lithium carbonate. Century has completed and submitted all baseline and environmental studies to the U.S. Bureau of Land Management (BLM) in advance of Angel Island’s Plan of Operations and is working on an update to the 2024 Feasibility Study. Submission of the Plan of Operations will begin the federal permitting process under the National Environmental Policy Act.
Demonstration plant. The company has relocated its Demonstration Plant from Amargosa Valley, Nevada, to its 20-acre facility at the Tonopah Airport, where it will continue research, development, and material handling. The relocation is intended to consolidate operations, improve logistical efficiency, and lower costs.
Codere Online (CDRO/$6.86 | Price Target: $14) Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 Jacob Mutchler jmutchler@noblefcm.com | Looking Past The Noise Rating: OUTPERFORM
Q3 Results. The company reported Q3 revenue of €51.6 million, essentially flat with the prior year period and below our estimate of €56.0 million. Adj. EBITDA of €2.9 million was modestly better than our estimate of €2.6 million. Notably, when excluding the impact of the Mexican Peso devaluation in Q3, revenue was up roughly 3% over the prior year period.
Solid fundamentals. Notably, while the company benefited from an 11% increase in monthly active customers, it was largely offset by a 10% decrease in monthly average spend, primarily attributed to the Mexican Peso devaluation. Moreover, the company recorded 85,000 first-time deposit customers in Q3, a 26% y-o-y. Importantly, the company’s cost per acquisition was €167, which is its lowest since Q1 2023.
Final Permitting Pathway for Industrial-Scale Facility. Comstock Metals received eligibility for its Air Quality Permit from the Nevada Division of Environmental Protection (NDEP), completing the major regulatory requirements needed to commission its 100,000-ton-per-year solar panel recycling facility in Silver Springs, Nevada. The approval keeps commissioning on track for the first quarter of 2026, with equipment deliveries expected before year-end. The facility is designed to process more than three million end-of-life panels annually using Comstock’s certified zero-landfill system that recovers aluminum, glass, silver, and other metals. We expect the facility to begin ramping up operations during the second quarter of 2026.
A Leading U.S. Solar Recycling Platform. This marks the first industrial solar recycling air permit issued in Nevada and reinforces Comstock’s leading position to accommodate a growing national waste stream. With most legacy U.S. solar panels deployed across Nevada, California, and Arizona, the Silver Springs, Nevada hub positions Comstock to serve more than half of the domestic decommissioning market. The Comstock Metals team is evaluating additional processing and storage locations to support broader expansion as panel retirements accelerate.
SEGG Media Corporation (SEGG/$1.42 | Price Target: $15.5) Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 Jacob Mutchler jmutchler@noblefcm.com | Waiting For Revenues To Ramp Rating: OUTPERFORM
Modest Q3 results. SEGG’s reported modest revenues and an operating loss for its Q3. The financial performance underscores the early-stage nature of the business and reflects the limited current monetization across its portfolio. We did not anticipate that the Q3 financial results were going to be meaningful. More importantly, are the steps that the company is taking to make acquisitions and build its businesses.
All-Sports facility pushed out. The company’s venture to launch its All-Sports Arena in Boca Raton appears to be stalled as it negotiates a broader lease arrangement with the landlord, seeking as much as 140,000 square feet instead of the original 100,000 square feet. This broader arrangement should allow a better customer experience, given the ability to add more experiential components, such as Formula I simulators.
V2X (VVX/$52.86 | Price Target: $72) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 New Awards Momentum Continues Rating: OUTPERFORM
Awards. With the Federal government once again open, contract awards are once again being announced by the Department of War. VVX’s award momentum continues, providing the Company with a solid base of business going into 2026, in our view.
Iraq F-16. On November 20th, subsidiary Vectrus Systems LLC. was awarded a $252.1 million cost-plus fixed-fee indefinite contract action for base support services in support of the Iraq F-16 program. Recall, this is one of the major $1 billion-plus contracts V2X has recently won. This contract provides for base operating support, base life support, and security services at the Martyr BG Ali Flaih Air Base in Iraq, and is expected to be complete by September 24, 2026.
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Monday, November 24, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
Bitcoin Depot (BTM)/OUTPERFORM – BTM Announces CEO Transition and Expanded Management Team Kuya Silver (KUYAF)/OUTPERFORM – Laying the Foundation for Growth Xcel Brands (XELB)/OUTPERFORM – A Promising 2026 Emerges
Bitcoin Depot (BTM/$1.49 | Price Target: $6) Patrick McCann, CFA pmccann@noblefcm.com | (314) 724-6266 Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 BTM Announces CEO Transition and Expanded Management Team Rating: OUTPERFORM
Leadership transition effective January 1, 2026. The company appointed Scott Buchanan as Chief Executive Officer, while founder Brandon Mintz will step out of the CEO role and assume the newly formalized title of Executive Chairman. Mintz, already serving as Chairman of the Board, will shift his focus more explicitly toward long-term strategy, M&A evaluation, and broader growth initiatives.
Buchanan a logical choice to lead as CEO. Mr. Buchanan has held a series of senior roles since 2019, including CFO, COO, acting CFO, President, and board member. In our view, he has already been a central driver of execution, financial discipline, and operational scaling within the organization, making him a natural fit to formalize leadership as CEO.
Kuya Silver (KUYAF/$0.32 | Price Target: $1.5) Mark Reichman mreichman@noblefcm.com | (561) 999-2272 Hans Baldau hbaldau@noblefcm.com | Laying the Foundation for Growth Rating: OUTPERFORM
Third quarter operational and financial results. During the third quarter, Kuya Silver processed 1,841 tonnes at a toll milling facility, resulting in the sale of 16,983 ounces of silver. The company generated revenue of $771,084 from Bethania concentrate sales, compared to no revenue in the prior-year quarter. Production costs totaled $1,165,790 as the company continued to develop multiple mining faces while executing infrastructure upgrades. The company generated a net loss of $1,523,898, or $(0.01) per share compared to a loss of $1,550,267, or $(0.01) per share during the third quarter of 2024. We had projected a loss of $1,241,457, or $(0.01) per share.
On track to achieve consistent production of 100 tonnes per day. In early November, Kuya achieved a single-day mining record of approximately 102.5 tonnes of mineralized material from the underground mine and is currently running at a consistent average throughput of approximately 90 tonnes per day. Recent underground development on the 640 level of the Espanola vein system advanced, with sufficient working faces completed to support output above 100 tonnes per day.
Xcel Brands (XELB/$0.8289 | Price Target: $7) Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 Jacob Mutchler jmutchler@noblefcm.com | A Promising 2026 Emerges Rating: OUTPERFORM
Loss narrows from year earlier. The company reported Q3 revenue of $1.1 million and an adj. EBITDA loss of $0.7 million. The adj. EBITDA loss was lower than the $1.0 million loss a year earlier reflecting the company’s structural cost reductions. The revenue and adj. EBITDA were modestly lower than our estimates of $1.6 million and a loss of $0.2 million, respectively. Notably, sales for C. Wonder and Christie Brinkley’s TWRHLL were disrupted by tariff-related vendor issues and HSN’s studio transition during Q3, which have since been resolved.
Q4 largely on track. In spite of the HSN disruptions, we believe that Q4 revenue appears on target with expectations, although we are tweaking up expenses slightly to compensate for the prospect of some added transition costs. As such, we are tweaking our adj. EBITDA loss estimate modestly from $100,000 to $450,000.
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Thursday, November 20, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
Xcel Brands (XELB)/OUTPERFORM – Positioned For Growth In 2026
Xcel Brands (XELB/$0.8 | Price Target: $7) Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 Jacob Mutchler jmutchler@noblefcm.com | Positioned For Growth In 2026 Rating: OUTPERFORM
Q3 Results. The company reported Q3 revenue of $1.1 million and an adj. EBITDA loss of $0.7 million, both of which were modestly lower than our estimates of $1.6 million and a loss of $0.2 million, respectively, as illustrated in Figure #1 Q3 Results. Notably, sales for C. Wonder and Christie Brinkley’s TWRHLL were disrupted by tariff-related vendor issues and HSN’s studio transition during Q3, which have since been resolved.
Strategic partnerships. The company’s new influencer brands, with Jenny Martinez, Gemma Stafford, Cesar Millan, and Coco Rocha, are expected to launch in Q1 2026. Notably, these celebrity partnerships drove the increase in the company’s social media following from 5 million at the start of the year to its current following of 46 million. In our view, the company is well positioned to reach its goal of 100 million social media followers in 2026.
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Wednesday, November 19, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
Euroseas (ESEA)/OUTPERFORM – Staying Nimble in a Dynamic Market Environment
Euroseas (ESEA/$55.76 | Price Target: $74) Mark Reichman mreichman@noblefcm.com | (561) 999-2272 Hans Baldau hbaldau@noblefcm.com | Staying Nimble in a Dynamic Market Environment Rating: OUTPERFORM
Third quarter financial results. Total net revenues for the third quartertotaled $56.9 million, a 5.1% increase year-over-year, but modestly lower than our estimate of $59.2 million. Adjusted EBITDA and EPS were $38.8 million and $4.23, respectively, below our estimates of $41.7 million and $4.40. The lower-than-expected results were due primarily to a greater number of scheduled off-hire days and expenses associated with a special survey and drydock completed on one vessel during the quarter. Total operating expenses amounted to $24.4 million compared to $23.5 million during the prior year period and our $23.1 million estimate. Drydocking expenses were $2.7 million compared to our estimate of $0.6 million.
Revenue and earnings visibility into 2026. With 100% of Q4 2025 operating days secured at an average rate of ~$30,345 per day and 74.7% of 2026 days already covered at higher average rates of ~$31,300 per day, Euroseas has locked in substantial revenue visibility. This robust charter coverage not only underpins earnings but also provides a strong buffer against rate volatility, positioning the company to benefit from sustained high utilization into 2026.
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Tuesday, November 18, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
Codere Online (CDRO)/OUTPERFORM – Outlook Improves For Q4, But Caution Signs For 2026 E.W. Scripps (SSP)/OUTPERFORM – Is This A Winning Strategy? Sky Harbour Group (SKYH)/OUTPERFORM – Unlocking Value Through Campus Activation Twin Hospitality (TWNP)/OUTPERFORM – Acquiring 8 Top Performing Franchised Twin Peaks Locations
Codere Online (CDRO/$5.69 | Price Target: $14) Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 Jacob Mutchler jmutchler@noblefcm.com | Outlook Improves For Q4, But Caution Signs For 2026 Rating: OUTPERFORM
Q3 Results. The company reported Q3 revenue of $51.6 million, essentially flat with the prior year period and below our estimate of $56.0 million. Adj. EBITDA of $2.9 million was modestly better than our estimate of $2.6 million, as illustrated in Figure #1 Q3 Results. Notably, when excluding the impact of the Mexican Peso devaluation in Q3, revenue was up roughly 5% over the prior year period.
Solid fundamentals. Notably, while the company benefited from an 11% increase in monthly active customers, it was largely offset by a 10% decrease in monthly average spend, primarily attributed to the Mexican Peso devaluation. Moreover, the company recorded 85,000 first time deposit customers in Q3, a 26% y-o-y. Importantly, the company’s cost per acquisition was €137, which is its lowest since Q1 2023.
E.W. Scripps (SSP/$3.06 | Price Target: $10) Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 Is This A Winning Strategy? Rating: OUTPERFORM
Sinclair’s surprising move. We believe that negotiations to merge with Sinclair broke down, but Sinclair decided to take another tack. It announced that it took a 8.2% stake in the company in a bold attempt to make public its intent and possibly to dissuade another potential suitor. The move is surprising given that E.W. Scripps is controlled by the Scripps Family Trust, which has voting control of the company (93%) and the Scripps family trust cannot simply vote its shares entirely independently of the family agreement.
What was the sticking point? We believe that the Scripps family recognizes the limitations that the company has with its current leveraged balance sheet and limited acquisition targets. In our view, the Scripps family has turned down overtures in the past because of the unwillingness to give up either control or a significant voice at the table. We believe that the point of contention is the Smith family’s 80% super majority voting rights of the Sinclair Broadcast Group and what the Scripps family will control following a potential merger.
Sky Harbour Group (SKYH/$8.97 | Price Target: $23) Patrick McCann, CFA pmccann@noblefcm.com | (314) 724-6266 Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 Unlocking Value Through Campus Activation Rating: OUTPERFORM
Q3 results. Sky Harbour reported Q3 revenue of $7.3 million versus our estimate of $9.3 million, and an adj. EBITDA loss of $2.3 million compared with our projected gain of $0.2 million. Management highlighted that the company is within roughly $1 million of run-rate breakeven, and we expect this threshold to be reached before year end as recently delivered campuses gain tenants.
Lease-up progress and long-term pipeline visibility. Management reaffirmed its goal of reaching 23 long-term ground leases by year end, up from 19 currently. Pre-leasing at Bradley (BDL) and Dulles (IAD) prior to construction demonstrates tenant demand at target rent levels and adds visibility to the 2026 revenue ramp.
Twin Hospitality (TWNP/$3.59 | Price Target: $10) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 Acquiring 8 Top Performing Franchised Twin Peaks Locations Rating: OUTPERFORM
Acquisition. Twin Hospitality has entered into a letter of intent to acquire eight Twin Peaks franchised restaurants in Florida from DMD Ventures, LLC for approximately $47 million in cash. We view this strategic transaction as an opportunistic investment in a key growth market, even as the Company’s long-term focus remains on franchise driven expansion.
Details. The acquisition will bring the following Florida locations to Company ownership: Davie, Fort Myers, West Palm Beach, Pembroke Pines, Hollywood, Cypress Creek, Doral and Naples. Upon completion, the transaction is expected to contribute approximately $76-$77 million in annual revenue and $9-$10 million in additional annual EBITDA, representing an EV/Sales multiple of 0.6x and an EV/EBITDA multiple of approximately 5x, a discount to TWNP’s current trading multiples.
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Monday, November 17, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
Bit Digital (BTBT)/OUTPERFORM – First Look at 3Q25 Newsmax (NMAX)/OUTPERFORM – Putting In A Good Foundation NN (NNBR)/OUTPERFORM – Mid-Quarter Business Update QuoteMedia Inc. (QMCI)/OUTPERFORM – Another Favorable Quarter
Bit Digital (BTBT/$2.41 | Price Target: $5.5) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 First Look at 3Q25 Rating: OUTPERFORM
Overview. The third quarter was Bit Digital’s first full period as a focused Ethereum treasury and staking company. During the quarter the Company continued to expand its ETH position, at quarter end holding approximately 122,000 ETH. By the end of October, that number had risen to more than 153,000 ETH, a fivefold increase since June.
3Q25 Results. Revenue for the quarter was $30.5 million, up from $22.7 million in 3Q24. We were at $31.5 million. Significantly, staking revenue grew to about $2.9 million, up from $400,000 in the prior quarter, driven by the increase in ETH holdings and a higher real life yield price. Due to a $168 million gain on digital asset valuation, BTBT reported $150.9 million, or $0.47/sh, of net income. We had forecasted a breakeven quarter, not including mark-to-market gains.
Newsmax (NMAX/$7.93 | Price Target: $22) Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 Jacob Mutchler jmutchler@noblefcm.com | Putting In A Good Foundation Rating: OUTPERFORM
Solid Q3 Results. The company reported Q3 revenue of $45.3 million and an adj. EBITDA loss of $1.8 million, both of which were in line with our estimates of $43.8 million and a loss of $1.7 million, respectively, as illustrated in Figure #1 Q3 Results. Notably, Q3 results benefited from a 10.1% increase in broadcasting revenue and a 22.3% increase in affiliate fee revenue, a development we view favorably, given that 2024 was an election year.
Affiliate fee growth. In our view, the company is well positioned to continue growing affiliate fee revenue as audience traction and ratings continue to improve, enhancing the network’s leverage in negotiations. Moreover, we believe the company’s growing reach supports higher per-sub rates during renewal cycles. As such, we believe affiliate fee growth strengthens its long-term outlook.
NN (NNBR/$1.45 | Price Target: $6) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 Mid-Quarter Business Update Rating: OUTPERFORM
Update. NN provided a mid-quarter business update. NN continues to see the benefits from its multi-year transformation efforts, which are delivering record adjusted EBITDA, record new sales wins, positive free cash flow, and setting a firm foundation for continued results. Notably, fourth quarter adjusted EBITDA and adjusted gross margins are expected to hit at least 14% and 20%, results which are more than two years ahead of plan.
New Business. Full-year 2025 new business wins are expected to meet the Company’s original guidance. NN remains on track to achieve its three-year new business wins target of $200 million, a Company record. The new business launches are expected to support solid year-over-year net sales growth, margin expansion, operating income advancement, and continued adjusted EBITDA growth. NN now has its biggest ever sales growth team and opportunity pipeline of more than 800 new programs, worth more than $800 million in annual value.
QuoteMedia Inc. (QMCI/$0.133 | Price Target: $0.23) Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 Jacob Mutchler jmutchler@noblefcm.com | Another Favorable Quarter Rating: OUTPERFORM
Q3 results. The company reported Q3 revenue of $5.2 million, a 10% increase over the prior year period, and a 5% increase sequentially. Additionally, revenue was modestly better than our $5.0 million estimate, while adj. EBITDA of $0.4 million was slightly lower than our estimate of $0.6 million. Importantly, the favorable revenue growth was largely driven by an increased spend from existing customers.
Capitalizing less development costs. Notably, the company capitalized less development costs in Q3 than in the prior year, resulting in increased development expenses in the quarter. While we anticipate the company will recognize development costs at a similar rate going forward, we believe that margins should improve as the company begins to recognize revenue from the new business “wins” in future quarters.
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Friday, November 14, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
Alliance Entertainment Holding (AENT)/OUTPERFORM – Favorable Momentum Into Fiscal Second Quarter Bitcoin Depot (BTM)/OUTPERFORM – Solid Q3 Execution Amid Rising Regulatory Headwinds EuroDry (EDRY)/MARKET PERFORM – Momentum Building into Q4 and 2026 GeoVax Labs (GOVX)/OUTPERFORM – 3Q25 Reported With Clinical Trial Updates and Plans To Move Products Forward GoHealth (GOCO)/OUTPERFORM – Reset in Progress as Carriers Recalibrate Newsmax (NMAX)/OUTPERFORM – Executing On Its Growth Strategy Seanergy Maritime (SHIP)/OUTPERFORM – Third Quarter Results Exceed Expectations; Increasing Estimates The Oncology Institute, Inc. (TOI)/OUTPERFORM – Guidance Raised After 3Q25 Revenues Beat Expectations
Alliance Entertainment Holding (AENT/$6.66 | Price Target: $11) Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 Jacob Mutchler jmutchler@noblefcm.com | Favorable Momentum Into Fiscal Second Quarter Rating: OUTPERFORM
Overachieved fiscal first quarter. Total revenues increased a solid 10.9% to $253.9 million, better than our $244.0 million estimate, bolstered by a 59% increase in movie sales. In addition, adj. EBITDA of $12.2 million, up roughly 260% y-o-y, was better than our $9.5 million estimate, reflecting a 330 basis point improvement in margins. Figure #1 Q3 Results highlights our estimates and the recent results.
Strong movie sales likely to continue. Movie sales revenues increased 59% to $84.0 million, well above our $74.9 million estimate, a reflection of a recent licensing agreement with Paramount Pictures, and, to a smaller extent by strong Steelbook sales. The Paramount Pictures licensing revenue lift is likely to bolster total company revenues for the next few quarters.
Bitcoin Depot (BTM/$2.07 | Price Target: $6) Patrick McCann, CFA pmccann@noblefcm.com | (314) 724-6266 Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 Solid Q3 Execution Amid Rising Regulatory Headwinds Rating: OUTPERFORM
Q3 results exceed expectations. Bitcoin Depot reported Q3 revenue of $162.5 million and adj. EBITDA of $16.1 million, both above our estimates of $146.5 million and $11.0 million, respectively. Results reflected strong kiosk expansion, higher transaction volumes, and improved margins.
Expansion momentum builds. Bitcoin Depot continues to advance its growth strategy through expanded retail partnerships and international initiatives. The company has deployed more than 260 kiosks in Australia over the past year and recently commenced operations in Hong Kong, strengthening its global footprint. These achievements, alongside the acquisition of National Bitcoin ATM, have further solidified its position as North America’s largest Bitcoin ATM operator.
EuroDry (EDRY/$13.23) Mark Reichman mreichman@noblefcm.com | (561) 999-2272 Hans Baldau hbaldau@noblefcm.com | Momentum Building into Q4 and 2026 Rating: MARKET PERFORM
Third quarter financial results. EuroDry reported third quarter 2025 revenues of $15.3 million, in line with expectations of $15.1 million and down slightly from $15.8 million last year due to a smaller fleet. Adjusted EBITDA improved sharply to $4.1 million, up from $0.5 million in Q3 2024, due to lower expenses and stronger utilization. The company operated an average of 12 vessels at a TCE of $13,232/day, modestly above $13,105/day in the prior-year period. Adjusted net loss narrowed to $0.6 million, or $(0.23)/share, compared to a loss of $3.9 million, or $(1.42)/share, last year.
Market outlook. Management indicated that dry-bulk fundamentals continued to strengthen through Q3, supported by improving Chinese import activity, firmer demand across key cargo segments, and increased ton-mile requirements. Limited fleet growth and a historically low orderbook continue to support a tightening supply backdrop as the market moves into 2026. We expect Q4 results to capture more of the recent improvement as earlier charters roll off, though geopolitical uncertainty remains a risk to global trade flows.
GeoVax Labs (GOVX/$0.5 | Price Target: $10) Robert LeBoyer rleboyer@noblefcm.com | (212) 896-4625 3Q25 Reported With Clinical Trial Updates and Plans To Move Products Forward Rating: OUTPERFORM
Plans For MVA Vaccine and Gedeptin Trial Expectations Confirmed. GeoVax reported a 3Q25 loss of $6.3 million or $(0.31) per share, a smaller loss than the $8.0 million loss we had projected. The company reviewed several developments related to the Geo-MVA vaccine for smallpox/Mpox, Gedeptin, and CM04S1. Discussions for possible marketing collaborations continue. The cash balance on September 30, 2025 was $5.0 million.
Moving Forward With Geo-MVA. As discussed in our Research Note on June 17, the Geo-MVA vaccine for smallpox/Mpox is moving forward toward a Phase 3 trial. This follows receipt of Scientific Advice EMA (European Medicines Agency) stating that a marketing approval application can be submitted after a single, Phase 3 immuno-bridging study against the approved MVA vaccine. Phase 1 and Phase 2 would not be required. This saves several years and many millions dollars, allowing the company to sell the vaccine sooner.
GoHealth (GOCO/$2.61 | Price Target: $10) Patrick McCann, CFA pmccann@noblefcm.com | (314) 724-6266 Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 Reset in Progress as Carriers Recalibrate Rating: OUTPERFORM
Q3 results below expectations. GoHealth reported Q3 revenue of $34.2 million versus our estimate of $100.0 million and an adj. EBITDA loss of $47.1 million, compared with our projected loss of $11.6 million. The variance reflected an intentional pullback in Medicare Advantage policy volume as management prioritized persistency and unit economics over near-term growth.
Health plans facing headwinds. Carriers are contending with lower reimbursement under the new CMS V28 risk model and heightened difficulty maintaining high STAR ratings. These dynamics have shifted industry priorities toward member retention, stability, and margin integrity rather than volume growth, reducing pre-funded marketing and broker commissions across the sector.
Newsmax (NMAX/$8.52 | Price Target: $23) Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 Jacob Mutchler jmutchler@noblefcm.com | Executing On Its Growth Strategy Rating: OUTPERFORM
Solid Q3 Results. The company reported Q3 revenue of $45.3 million and an adj. EBITDA loss of $1.8 million, both of which were in line with our estimates of $43.8 million and a loss of $1.7 million, respectively, as illustrated in Figure #1 Q3 Results. Notably, Q3 results benefited from a 10.1% increase in broadcasting revenue and a 22.3% increase in affiliate fee revenue, a development we view favorably, given that 2024 was an election year.
Expanded distribution. Notably, the company expanded its reach in the hospitality industry, adding more than 900 hotels and over 300,000 rooms. Additionally, its partnership with Curb extended programming across 15,000 taxi screens, with over 2.3 billion annual impressions. Furthermore, the company continues to gain traction internationally through licensing deals in the Balkans and the rollout of Newsmax en Español. In our view, the company is well positioned to continue expanding distribution both domestically and internationally.
Seanergy Maritime (SHIP/$9.23 | Price Target: $12) Mark Reichman mreichman@noblefcm.com | (561) 999-2272 Hans Baldau hbaldau@noblefcm.com | Third Quarter Results Exceed Expectations; Increasing Estimates Rating: OUTPERFORM
Third quarter results. Seanergy generated third quarter net revenue of $47.0 million compared to $44.4 million during the prior year period and above our $45.1 million estimate. Relative to the third quarter of 2024, revenue growth was driven by an expanded fleet, an increase in operating days, and higher fleet utilization. Third quarter time charter equivalent (TCE) rates and fees from related parties were above our estimates. Operating expenses were in line with expectations, resulting in adjusted EBITDA of $26.6 million and EPS of $0.67, respectively, both ahead of our $25.0 million and $0.50 estimates, respectively.
Market outlook. During the investor call, management highlighted favorable Capesize market supply and demand fundamentals that are expected to support charter rates, including increasing Atlantic-based trade, a historically low order book, and limited shipyard availability. With a 20-vessel fleet consisting purely of Capesize and Newcastlemax vessels and a conservative capital structure, Seanergy is well positioned to benefit from strong Capesize market fundamentals.
The Oncology Institute, Inc. (TOI/$3.08 | Price Target: $8) Robert LeBoyer rleboyer@noblefcm.com | (212) 896-4625 Guidance Raised After 3Q25 Revenues Beat Expectations Rating: OUTPERFORM
3Q25 Was A Strong Quarter. The Oncology Institute reported a loss of $16.5 million or $(0.14) per share, with revenues from Patient Services and Dispensary both ahead of our estimates. Adjusted EBITDA turned positive for the first time at the end of the quarter. Management raised guidance for Full-Year Revenues, and confirmed the ranges for Adjusted EBITDA, and Free Cash Flow. On September 30, the company had $27.7 million in cash.
Total Revenues Beat Our Estimates. Total Revenue of $136.6 million easily beat our estimate of $122.5 million. This was an increase from $119.8 million in 2Q25 (up 14%) and $99.9 million (up 37%) in 4Q24. Adjusted EBITDA of $(3.5) million was also better than the $(3.8) million we had estimated. COGS included a new reserve of $8.1 million for bad debts, lowering gross margin from 19.8% to 13.9% compared with the 15.2% we estimated.
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Thursday, November 13, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
Alliance Entertainment Holding (AENT)/OUTPERFORM – Strong Start To The Year InPlay Oil (IPOOF)/OUTPERFORM – Execution Drives Strong Volumes; Upside Builds for 2026 Sky Harbour Group (SKYH)/OUTPERFORM – Site Acquisitions on Track SKYX Platforms (SKYX)/OUTPERFORM – Global Expansion on the Horizon Snail (SNAL)/OUTPERFORM – Looking Past The Noise Unicycive Therapeutics (UNCY)/OUTPERFORM – FDA Filing Date for OLC Confirmed With 3Q25 Reporting V2X (VVX)/OUTPERFORM – Vertex Aerospace Offloads Some More Shares
Alliance Entertainment Holding (AENT/$6.64 | Price Target: $11) Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 Strong Start To The Year Rating: OUTPERFORM
Overachieves fiscal first quarter. Total revenues increased a solid 10.9% to $253.9 million, better than our $244.0 million estimate, bolstered by a 59% increase in movie sales. In addition, adj. EBITDA of $12.2 million, up roughly 260% y-o-y, was better than our $9.5 million estimate, reflecting a 330 basis point improvement in margins. Figure #1 Q3 Results highlights our estimates and the recent results.
Strong movie sales likely to continue. Movie sales revenues increased 59% to $84.0 million, well above our $74.9 million estimate, a reflection of a recent licensing agreement with Paramount Pictures, and, to a smaller extent, strong Steelbook sales. The Paramount Pictures licensing revenue lift is likely to bolster total company revenues for the next few quarters.
InPlay Oil (IPOOF/$9.45 | Price Target: $15.75) Mark Reichman mreichman@noblefcm.com | (561) 999-2272 Hans Baldau hbaldau@noblefcm.com | Execution Drives Strong Volumes; Upside Builds for 2026 Rating: OUTPERFORM
Third-quarter 2025 results. InPlay reported third-quarter results, with production averaging 18,970 barrels of oil equivalent per day (boe/d), up 7% from Q2 and 131% higher than Q3 2024. This was above our forecast of 18,695 boe/d, due to continued outperformance of wells drilled in the first quarter of 2025 and low decline base production. Revenue totaled C$79.3 million, below our forecast of C$86.8 million due to lower natural gas pricing. Adjusted funds flow (AFF) came in at C$26.8 million, or C$0.96 per share, modestly below our C$28.0 million, or $1.00 per share estimate, mainly due to the variance in revenue.
Market outlook. We think 2026 will offer a more favorable environment for InPlay. It will mark the first full year of results post-Pembina acquisition, unlocking the benefits of greater scale, infrastructure control, and an expanded drilling inventory. While near-term pricing remains soft, we expect stronger demand, slower supply growth, and potential for tighter oil and gas markets to support improved realizations and higher netbacks through 2026. With enhanced gas processing capacity and capital flexibility, InPlay remains well-positioned to capitalize on an improving macro backdrop.
Sky Harbour Group (SKYH/$9.85 | Price Target: $23) Patrick McCann, CFA pmccann@noblefcm.com | (314) 724-6266 Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 Site Acquisitions on Track Rating: OUTPERFORM
Q3 below estimates. Sky Harbour reported Q3 revenue of $7.3 million (+78% Y/Y) trailing our estimate of $9.3 million. An adj. EBITDA loss of $2.3 million was below our forecast of a $0.2 million gain, illustrated in Figure #1 Q3 Results. Management noted that the company is within $1 million of a cash break-even run-rate and expects to achieve positive operating cash flow before year-end.
Site acquisition on target. Sky Harbour now holds 19 airport ground leases (nine operating, ten in development) and remains on pace to reach 23 by year-end. The company announced a site acquisition at Long Beach Airport, while pre-leasing at Dulles and Bradley supports pricing power and visibility into 2026.
SKYX Platforms (SKYX/$1.62 | Price Target: $5) Patrick McCann, CFA pmccann@noblefcm.com | (314) 724-6266 Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 Global Expansion on the Horizon Rating: OUTPERFORM
Q3 on target. SKYX reported Q3 revenue of $23.9 million versus our estimate of $23.5 million and an adj. EBITDA loss of $2.3 million versus our forecasted loss of $2.1 million. Revenue rose 4% over Q2, while gross margin improved to 32% from 30% in Q2, reflecting an increased mix of higher-margin proprietary products.
B2B pipeline building. SKYX’s new partnership with Global Ventures Group expands its footprint into the Middle East, including projects in Saudi Arabia and Egypt. Alongside Landmark Companies, Forte Developments, Cavco Homes, and the Miami Smart City, these relationships reinforce multi-year B2B growth potential as deployments scale through 2026 and beyond.
Snail (SNAL/$1.03 | Price Target: $3) Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 Jacob Mutchler jmutchler@noblefcm.com | Looking Past The Noise Rating: OUTPERFORM
Q3 results. The company reported Q3 revenue of $13.8 million and an adj. EBITDA loss of $9.6 million, both of which were lower than our estimates of $22.0 million and a loss of $2.0 million, respectively. The weaker than expected results were largely attributed to moderately higher than expected operating expenses and a $10.9 million increase in deferred revenue, which currently has a balance of $36.4 million. Notably, while revenue and adj. EBITDA were softer than anticipated, bookings increased a solid 9.3%, y-o-y, to $17.6 million.
Favorable release roadmap. The company has a busy release roadmap in Q4 and 2026. Notably, in Q4, the company plans to release the ARK: Survival Ascended (ASA) Lost Colony DLC, which is expected to unlock $5.8 million in deferred revenue. Looking ahead to 2026, the release roadmap includes Honeycomb, Bellwright on PlayStation and Xbox, and two DLCs for ASA, Genesis Part 1 and Part 2, which are tied to $10.3 million in deferred revenue.
Unicycive Therapeutics (UNCY/$5.14 | Price Target: $60) Robert LeBoyer rleboyer@noblefcm.com | (212) 896-4625 FDA Filing Date for OLC Confirmed With 3Q25 Reporting Rating: OUTPERFORM
3Q25 Reported With OLC Update. Unicycive reported a 3Q25 loss of $6.0 million or $(0.33) per share, below our expectations of $(8.4) million. Importantly, the company confirmed previous plans to resubmit its NDA for OLC (oxylanthanum citrate) by the end of the year, implying a new PDUFA date during 1H26. Cash at the end of the quarter was $42.7 million.
OLC Resubmission Planned Before Year-End. Unicycive previously announced that it held a meeting with the FDA to discuss the issue with a third-party manufacturer cited as a deficiency in the Complete Response Letter (CRL) received in June 2025. After the FDA meeting and an inspection of the third-party manufacturer by EU regulators, the company plans to resubmit the NDA. Assuming a PDUFA (Prescription Drug User Fee Act) review time of 6 months, an answer could be received during 1H26.
V2X (VVX/$55.5 | Price Target: $72) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 Vertex Aerospace Offloads Some More Shares Rating: OUTPERFORM
Another Sale. Yesterday, V2X announced the sale of 2.25 million shares of its common stock on an underwritten basis by Vertex Aerospace Holdco LLC. V2X is not selling any shares of common stock in the offering, and V2X will not receive any proceeds from the offering by Vertex Aerospace. The offering is expected to close on or about November 13, 2025, subject to customary closing conditions. The sale is another in a series as Vertex Aerospace continues to liquidate its V2X holding acquired in the merger between Vectrus and Vertex.
V2X To Participate. Under its existing share repurchase authorization, V2X has agreed to purchase 363,638 shares of common stock that are subject to the offering at a price per share of common stock equal to the price to be paid to Vertex Aerospace by the underwriter. V2X intends to fund the repurchase of its common stock with cash on hand. At the current price, the 363,638 shares would cost approximately $20 million.
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Wednesday, November 12, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
Commercial Vehicle Group (CVGI)/OUTPERFORM – Improved Execution in an Uncertain Environment Conduent (CNDT)/OUTPERFORM – 2026 Pipeline Growing Despite Q3 Headwinds The Beachbody Company (BODI)/OUTPERFORM – Table Is Set For A Promising 2026; Raising Price Target
Commercial Vehicle Group (CVGI/$1.5 | Price Target: $4) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 Improved Execution in an Uncertain Environment Rating: OUTPERFORM
Overview. CVG’s operating environment remains challenged with lower demand in the key Construction, Agriculture, and Class 8 truck end markets. Nonetheless, in 3Q25, the Company saw continued sequential expansion in adjusted gross margin in the quarter. The Company is making progress with customers in regards to mitigating tariff impacts.
3Q25 Results. Revenues of $152.5 million were down 11.2%, primarily due to softening in North American demand. We were at $158 million. Adjusted EBITDA was $4.6 million, up 7.0%, with an adjusted EBITDA margin of 3.0%, up from 2.5% a year ago. CVG reported a net loss from continuing operations of $6.8 million, or $(0.20)/sh and adjusted net loss of $4.6 million, or $(0.14)/sh, compared to net loss from continuing operations of $0.9 million, or $(0.03)/sh, and adjusted net loss of $0.4 million, or $(0.01)/sh.
Conduent (CNDT/$1.84 | Price Target: $7) Patrick McCann, CFA pmccann@noblefcm.com | (314) 724-6266 Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 2026 Pipeline Growing Despite Q3 Headwinds Rating: OUTPERFORM
Q3 hits headwind. Conduent reported Q3 revenue of $767 million and adj. EBITDA of $40 million, modestly below our estimates of $794 million and $44 million. While sales in the Commercial segment lagged, Transportation delivered strong revenue growth (+15% Y/Y) and Government margins expanded to 25.6%. Totally company adj. EBITDA margins improved 110 bps year-over-year, underscoring steady operational progress.
Pipeline growing. Overall new business activity was solid with the qualified ACV pipeline rising 9% Y/Y to $3.4 billion, led by Government and Transportation momentum. While the Commercial segment struggled to close sales, we believe a streamlined go-to-market model and early software-licensing traction should support 2026 revenue stabilization.
The Beachbody Company (BODI/$5.92 | Price Target: $15) Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 Jacob Mutchler jmutchler@noblefcm.com | Table Is Set For A Promising 2026; Raising Price Target Rating: OUTPERFORM
Solid Q3 Results. The company reported Q3 revenue of $59.9 million and adj. EBITDA of $9.5 million, both of which surpassed our estimates of $54.0 million and $2.6 million, respectively. Additionally, the strong results surpassed the high end of company issued guidance, of $51.0 million to $58.0 million in revenue and $2.0 million to $6.0 million in adj. EBITDA. Furthermore, the company hit an important milestone, recording net income for the first time since 2021.
Improved operating structure. Over the past several years, the company has significantly lowered its break-even point from $900 million in 2022 to $180 million in 2025, largely through SG&A optimization and the elimination of Multi Layer sales costs. The new model offers enhanced operating leverage, enabling profitability at lower revenue levels and providing a favorable outlook ahead of several new product releases.
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Tuesday, November 11, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
Cadrenal Therapeutics (CVKD)/OUTPERFORM – 3Q25 Reported With Product Pipeline Updates FreightCar America (RAIL)/OUTPERFORM – Third Quarter Results Exceed Expectations Graham (GHM)/MARKET PERFORM – A Solid 2Q26 Nicola Mining Inc. (HUSIF)/OUTPERFORM – Making Progress on Multiple Fronts The Beachbody Company (BODI)/OUTPERFORM – Turnaround Ahead of Schedule Townsquare Media (TSQ)/OUTPERFORM – Fundamental Traction Is Elusive, But It Pays A Compelling Dividend
Cadrenal Made A Significant Acquisition In 3Q25. Cadrenal reported a loss of $2.7 million or $(1.31) per share, less than the loss of $3.1 million we estimated. The company also provided an update on clinical progress for tecarfarin and the products acquired through the recent acquisition of eXithera Therapeutics. At the end of the quarter on September 30, the company had cash on hand of $3.9 million.
Tecarfarin Is Making Clinical Progress. During the quarter, the company continued to support the Phase 2 trial in LVAD (left ventricular assist devices) as part of its collaboration with Abbott. Separately, it also continued its consultations with Clinical Investigators to design a Phase 2 trial in dialysis patients previously treated with warfarin. The manufacture of tecarfarin supplies for clinical trials that comply with the FDA’s Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP) was also completed.
FreightCar America (RAIL/$9.48 | Price Target: $17) Mark Reichman mreichman@noblefcm.com | (561) 999-2272 Hans Baldau hbaldau@noblefcm.com | Third Quarter Results Exceed Expectations Rating: OUTPERFORM
Third quarter results. RAIL generated third-quarter adj. net income of $7.8 million, or $0.24 per share, compared to $7.3 million, or $0.08 per share, during the prior year period. We had forecast net income of $5.6 million, or $0.16 per share. Rail car deliveries were 1,304 units compared to 961 units during the prior year period. Third-quarter gross margin increased to 15.1% compared to 14.3% during the prior year period. Adjusted EBITDA increased 56.1% to $17.0 million, representing a margin of 10.6%, compared to $10.9 million and a margin of 9.6% in the third quarter of 2024.
Updated corporate guidance. While management still expects 2025 rail car deliveries in the range of 4,500 to 4,900 and adjusted EBITDA in the range of $43 million to $49 million, revenue expectations were lowered to a range of $500 million to $530 million from $530 million to $595 million. Revised revenue expectations reflect changes in the product mix due to a greater number of conversion rail cars versus new rail cars in the second half.
Graham (GHM/$62) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 A Solid 2Q26 Rating: MARKET PERFORM
Overview. Graham put up solid results for the second quarter of fiscal 2026. The Company executed well across all the business lines, driving broad based-growth. Demand across the end markets remains healthy, and the Defense and Space markets continue to see robust activity.
2Q26 Results. Revenue grew 23% to $66 million, driven by solid performance across all end markets. We were at $59 million. Adjusted EBITDA was $6.3 million, up 12% from the prior year, and adjusted EBITDA margin was 9.5%. We had forecasted $6.2 million and 10.4%. Net income for the quarter was $0.28 per diluted share, and adjusted net income was $0.31 per diluted share. We were at $0.30 and $0.32, respectively.
Nicola Mining Inc. (HUSIF/$0.635135 | Price Target: $1.2) Mark Reichman mreichman@noblefcm.com | (561) 999-2272 Making Progress on Multiple Fronts Rating: OUTPERFORM
New Craigmont drilling program. Nicola Mining (OTCQB: HUSIF, TSX.V: NIM) recently completed its New Craigmont exploration program with six holes drilled, representing 3,000 to 4,000 meters of drilling. Three holes were drilled in the MARB-CAS zone targeting porphyry mineralization. Three holes were drilled in the Draken zone, a newly identified porphyry copper target with no surface outcropping. The Draken Zone demonstrates porphyry style mineralization consistent with the Highland Valley Copper system. Results of the 2025 program and 2026 plans are expected to be announced together once assays are received.
Blue Lagoon commences first shipments. Blue Lagoon Resources Inc. (OTCQB: BLAGF, CSE: BLLG) has commenced shipping mineralized material from its first batch of production at the Dome Mountain Gold Mine to Nicola Mining’s Merritt Mill. Upon accumulation of the first 1,000 tonnes, Dome Mountain material will be processed and produced into a concentrate for shipment to Ocean Partners, a provider of trading services for miners, refiners, and smelters. While initial material being trucked to Nicola is not expected to represent higher-grade mineralized material, volumes and grades are expected to improve over time.
The Beachbody Company (BODI/$5.02 | Price Target: $12) Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 Jacob Mutchler jmutchler@noblefcm.com | Turnaround Ahead of Schedule Rating: OUTPERFORM
Solid Q3 Results. The company reported Q3 revenue of $59.9 million and adj. EBITDA of $9.5 million, both of which surpassed our estimates of $54.0 million and $2.6 million, respectively, as illustrated in Figure #1 Q3 Results. Additionally, the strong results surpassed the high end of company issued guidance, of $51.0 million to $58.0 million in revenue and $2.0 million to $6.0 million in adj. EBITDA. Furthermore, the company hit an important milestone, recording net income for the first time since going public.
Improved operating structure. Over the past several years, the company has significantly lowered its break-even point from $900 million in 2022 to $180 million in 2025, largely through SG&A optimization and the elimination of Multi Layer sales costs. The new model offers enhanced operating leverage, enabling profitability at lower revenue levels and providing a favorable outlook ahead of several new product releases.
Townsquare Media (TSQ/$5.42 | Price Target: $15) Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 Jacob Mutchler jmutchler@noblefcm.com | Fundamental Traction Is Elusive, But It Pays A Compelling Dividend Rating: OUTPERFORM
In line quarter. Third quarter results were in line with our revenue and adj. EBITDA estimates, but came in at the bottom of the company’s Q3 guide. Total company revenues of $106.8 million were a modest 0.6% below our $107.5 million estimate. Adj. EBITDA was $22.0 million, largely in line with our $22.5 million estimate.
Its digital businesses sputter. Digital was the uncharacteristically lackluster, with revenues $58.9 million, somewhat lighter than our $59.8 million estimate, a 1.8% decrease from the comparable year earlier quarter. Our forecast anticipated a more modest 0.2% decline in total digital revenue. The company experienced revenue weakness in both its Townsquare Interactive (down 2.3%) and Digital Advertising (down 1.5%) businesses.
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Monday, November 10, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
Bit Digital (BTBT)/OUTPERFORM – Monthly Ethereum Metrics CoreCivic, Inc. (CXW)/OUTPERFORM – Attractive Risk/Reward Opportunity E.W. Scripps (SSP)/OUTPERFORM – Standing Tall Among Its Peers Eledon Pharmaceuticals (ELDN)/OUTPERFORM – BESTOW Trial Leads To Misunderstanding of Tegoprubart Data FAT Brands (FAT)/OUTPERFORM – Third Quarter Results Gyre Therapeutics, Inc (GYRE)/OUTPERFORM – Gyre Reports 3Q25 With Several Clinical Trial Updates Kelly Services (KELYA)/OUTPERFORM – A Miss, But Some Positives MariMed Inc (MRMD)/OUTPERFORM – Implementing the Expand the Brand Strategy ONE Group Hospitality (STKS)/OUTPERFORM – Third Quarter Results Saga Communications (SGA)/OUTPERFORM – Influx Of Cash Likely To Fuel Stock Repurchases The GEO Group (GEO)/OUTPERFORM – Solid Performance; Attractive Entry Point Titan International (TWI)/OUTPERFORM – Some Green Shoots, Reports 3Q25 Twin Hospitality (TWNP)/OUTPERFORM – Strategy Being Implemented
Bit Digital (BTBT/$3.14 | Price Target: $5.5) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 Monthly Ethereum Metrics Rating: OUTPERFORM
Data. Bit Digital reported its monthly Ethereum (“ETH”) treasury and staking metrics for the month of October 2025. As of October 31, 2025, the Company held approximately 153,547 ETH, versus 121,187 ETH at the end of September. Included in the ETH holdings were approximately 15,139 ETH and ETH-equivalents held in an externally managed fund, and approximately 5,132 ETH presented on an as-converted basis from LsETH using the Coinbase conversion rate as of 10/31/25. The Company’s total staked ETH was approximately 132,480 as of October 31st.
Yield and Value. Staking operations generated approximately 249 ETH in rewards during October, representing an annualized yield of approximately 2.93%. Based on a closing ETH price of $3,845.79, as of October 31, 2025, the market value of the Company’s ETH holdings was approximately $590.5 million.
CoreCivic, Inc. (CXW/$16.95 | Price Target: $28) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 Attractive Risk/Reward Opportunity Rating: OUTPERFORM
Overview. With four new contracts during the quarter, CoreCivic made substantial progress in contracting to use a significant portion of its idle facility capacity in the quarter. The four new contracts effective in the third quarter are expected to generate approximately $320 million of annual revenue once the facilities achieve stabilized occupancy. Notably, CoreCivic’s detention populations and revenues have been unaffected by the government shutdown.
3Q25 Results. Revenue of $580.4 million rose 18.1% y-o-y, driven by increased populations. We were at $550 million. CoreCivic recorded adjusted EBITDA of $88.8 million, up 6.6% y-o-y, but slightly below our $91.8 million estimate. Adjusted EPS was $0.24, up 26.3% y-o-y and in-line with our $0.27 estimate. Normalized FFO was $0.48, up 11.6% y-o-y and in-line with our $0.48 estimate.
E.W. Scripps (SSP/$2.56 | Price Target: $10) Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 Jacob Mutchler jmutchler@noblefcm.com | Standing Tall Among Its Peers Rating: OUTPERFORM
Q3 Core outperforms peers. Core advertising increased 2%, outperforming its peers, which on average declined 2% in the quarter. In addition, the company overachieved adj. EBITDA on better than expected expense savings on employee costs across both operating segments.
Q4 core outlook outperforms peers as well. Management guided core advertising to increase 10% in Q4, significantly better than its peers, with most guiding flat to down as much as 5%. The biggest disappointment is in its Scripps Networks division, with Q4 revenues guided down low double-digits, impacted by the absence of Political and Medicare enrollment advertising due to the government shutdown.
Eledon Pharmaceuticals (ELDN/$2.06 | Price Target: $10) Robert LeBoyer rleboyer@noblefcm.com | (212) 896-4625 BESTOW Trial Leads To Misunderstanding of Tegoprubart Data Rating: OUTPERFORM
Phase 2 BESTOW Trial Data Reported. On Thursday evening, November 6, the results of the Phase 2 BESTOW trial in kidney transplant patients were presented. The trial did not meet its primary endpoint of tegoprubart superiority to the control arm but showed improvements in several important endpoints. We believe tegoprubart performed well and that the sharp decline in stock price is unwarranted.
Design Of The Phase 2 BESTOW Trial. The trial enrolled 126 patients into and randomized them into two arms. The first received tegoprubart and the second received tacrolimus, the standard of care, as a control arm. The primary endpoint was a difference in eGFR, a measure of kidney filtration and function. Additional endpoints reported were for the iBOX composite and measures of adverse events.
FAT Brands (FAT/$1.45 | Price Target: $10) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 Third Quarter Results Rating: OUTPERFORM
Overview. While the restaurant industry continues to face headwinds, FAT Brands did see some positives from the operating side. Most encouraging is the momentum in same-store sales performance. The Company narrowed the SSS decline to just 3.5%, down from 4.2% in the second quarter, representing the strongest quarterly performance so far this year.
3Q25 Financials. Quarterly revenue totaled $140 million, a 2.3% decrease from $143.4 million in last year’s quarter. The decline was driven primarily by the closure of 11 underperforming Smokey Bones locations as planned. Adjusted EBITDA was $13.1 million, compared to $14.1 million a year ago. The Company reported a GAAP net loss of $58.2 million versus a net loss of $44.8 million a year ago. Adjusted net loss was $45.4 million, or $2.67/sh, compared to adjusted net loss of $38.0 million, or $2.34/sh, in 3Q24.
Gyre Therapeutics, Inc (GYRE/$7.21 | Price Target: $20) Robert LeBoyer rleboyer@noblefcm.com | (212) 896-4625 Gyre Reports 3Q25 With Several Clinical Trial Updates Rating: OUTPERFORM
Quarter Sales Were Driven By Etuary. Gyre reported Net Income of $5.9 million or $0.04 per basic share. Revenue of $30.6 million showed year-over-year growth of 20.0%. This was driven by strength in Etuary with sales of $27.7 million. Sales of Etorel and Contiva sales were of $1.5 million and $1.2 million respectively. At the end of 3Q25 on September 30, the company had $80.3 in cash, equivalents, and securities.
The Company Made Progress In Several Important Clinical Programs. During 3Q, Gyre continued working to submit its NDA for Hydronidone approval in China. The Phase 3 trial testing Etuary in pneumonoconiosis completed enrollment, while a Phase 2/3 trial for pulmonary complications in oncology (radiation induced lung injury/pneumonitis) is planned to begin in 4Q25. The IND for a Phase 2 trial in MASH in the US is now expected to be filed in early 2026, within the timeframe we had expected.
Kelly Services (KELYA/$9.63 | Price Target: $17) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 A Miss, But Some Positives Rating: OUTPERFORM
Overview. Kelly reported 3Q25 results below expectations, even after scrubbing away a number of one-time events. Lower demand from the federal government and a few large customers negatively impacted results. Nonetheless, Kelly continued to capture growth in certain markets.
3Q25 Results. 3Q25 revenue fell 9.9% to $935 million from $1.04 billion last year. Consensus was $973 million, and we were at $975 million. Adjusted EBITDA was $16.5 million, or a 1.9% margin, compared to $26.2 million, or a 2,5% margin, in 3Q24. Consensus was $33 million, and we were at $33.5 million. Adjusted EPS was $0.18 vs $0.21 last year. Consensus was $0.42, we were at $0.45.
MariMed Inc (MRMD/$0.102 | Price Target: $0.25) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 Implementing the Expand the Brand Strategy Rating: OUTPERFORM
Brand Strength. To illustrate the strength of MariMed’s brands, during the quarter in Illinois, the Company experienced a 23% sequential sales increase despite sales being down statewide 1.5%, according to Hoodie. In Massachusetts, MariMed sales increased 5% sequentially, compared to a 2% decline in the state, again according to Hoodie.
Wholesale. In terms of Wholesale, MariMed has achieved 75% penetration across all of its markets, excluding Missouri, leaving significant white space for future growth. The next step is to increase the breadth of relationship with customers, garnering additional shelf space for MariMed product.
ONE Group Hospitality (STKS/$1.88 | Price Target: $5) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 Third Quarter Results Rating: OUTPERFORM
Overview. Third quarter results were below expectations as operations were impacted by factors that temporarily reduced traffic in certain markets. Rising commodity costs outpaced pricing adjustments, impacting margins. The Benihana integration continues to exceed management expectations, and the new Benihana prototype is delivering strong results.
3Q25 Results. Revenue was $180.2 million, down from $194 million in 3Q24 and our $193.5 million estimate. Adjusted EBITDA totaled $10.6 million, down from $14.9 million in 3Q24 and below our $17.6 million estimate. ONE Group reported a GAAP loss of $85.3 million, or a loss of $2.75/sh, versus a loss of $16.4 million, or $0.53/sh last year.
Saga Communications (SGA/$12.38 | Price Target: $18) Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 Jacob Mutchler jmutchler@noblefcm.com | Influx Of Cash Likely To Fuel Stock Repurchases Rating: OUTPERFORM
Q3 Results. Third quarter revenue of $28.2 million was in line with our $28.3 million estimate, representing a modest 1.8% decline against a Political advertising infused prior year period. Adj. EBITDA, excluding an extraordinary music licensing settlement expense, was $3.3 million, in line with our $3.4 million estimate.
Q3 revenues stabilize. Excluding Political advertising, the strength in Digital advertising more than offset the weakness in its core broadcast advertising. Digital advertising was up roughly 40% in the quarter. Digital advertising continues to have strong momentum into the fourth quarter, pacing up 32%.
The GEO Group (GEO/$15.13 | Price Target: $35) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 Solid Performance; Attractive Entry Point Rating: OUTPERFORM
Overview. GEO Group reported 3Q25 results at or above expectations, excluding one-time impacts. Nonetheless, the shares sold off on concerns about the pace of detentions and uncertain additional facility activations. Notably, since the beginning of the year, GEO has entered into new or expanded contracts that represent over $460 million in new incremental annualized revenues that are already under contract and are expected to normalize in 2026. This represents the largest amount of new business the Company has won in a single year in its history.
3Q25 Results. Revenue of $682.3 million rose 13.1% y-o-y. We were at $650 million. Adjusted EBITDA came in at $120.1 million, or a 17.6% margin compared to $118.6 million, or a 19.7% margin. GAAP EPS was impacted by a $232.4 million gain from the sale of Lawton and a $37.7 million non-cash charge in connection with litigation. Adjusted EPS was $0.25 versus $0.21 last year and our $0.22 estimate.
Titan International (TWI/$7.82 | Price Target: $11) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 Some Green Shoots, Reports 3Q25 Rating: OUTPERFORM
Overview. Titan reported 3Q25 results at the high end of expectations. The Ag and EMC segments each reported revenue growth compared with the prior year period, along with expanded gross margins. The Consumer segment saw improved gross margins despite marginally lower revenues due to tariffs continuing to have some dampening effect on new equipment demand. Notably, Titan continued to generate gross and EBITDA margins meaningfully above where they were during the last cyclical trough.
3Q25 Results. Net sales for 3Q25 were $466.5 million, compared to $448.0 million in the comparable period of 2024. The increase was primarily driven by pricing related to passing on increases in input costs. We were at $455 million. Gross margin improved to 15.2% from 13.1%. We were at 15.2%. Adjusted EBITDA was $29.8 million in 3Q25, compared to $20.5 million in 3Q24, and our $28.5 million estimate. Adjusted EPS was $0.04 versus a loss of $0.19/sh last year and our projected $0.04/sh loss.
Twin Hospitality (TWNP/$3.47 | Price Target: $10) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 Strategy Being Implemented Rating: OUTPERFORM
Overview. In the third quarter, Twin Peaks delivered a solid performance, expanding restaurant-level contribution margin to 17.0%. Sales within core markets also grew year-over-year despite regional headwinds. The conversions of certain Smokey Bones locations continues, with converted locations performing well.
3Q25 Results. Revenue decreased 1.6% y-o-y to $82.3 million, reflecting the loss of revenue from closed Smokey Bones locations as well as a decline in SSS. Twin Peaks System-wide sales declined 1.4%, with SSS off 4.1%. Adjusted EBITDA of $3 million in 3Q25 improved modestly from $2.3 million in 3Q24. Twin Hospitality reported a loss of $24.5 million compared to a net loss of $16.2 million last year.
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Friday, November 7, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
Direct Digital Holdings (DRCT)/MARKET PERFORM – Building A Path Toward Profitability E.W. Scripps (SSP)/OUTPERFORM – Facing A Difficult Q4 Ocugen (OCGN)/OUTPERFORM – Clinical and Regulatory Milestones Are On or Ahead Of Expectations Saga Communications (SGA)/OUTPERFORM – Business Stabilizes In Q3 SelectQuote (SLQT)/OUTPERFORM – Brief Pharmacy Disruption, Trajectory Intact
Direct Digital Holdings (DRCT/$0.3148) Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 Jacob Mutchler jmutchler@noblefcm.com | Building A Path Toward Profitability Rating: MARKET PERFORM
Q3 Results. The company reported Q3 revenue of $8.0 million, below our forecast of $14.5 million, partially driven by continued underperformance in the Sell-side business, which generated $0.6 million vs. our forecast of $5.0 million. Furthermore, while the company has been focusing on cost reductions, it has not been enough to offset the softness in the Sell-side. As such, adj. EBITDA loss of $3.0 million came in lower than our estimate of a loss of $0.1 million.
Buy-side grew. Notably, Buy-side revenue grew 7% YoY to $7.3 million, driven by expansion into larger performance-based clients. Notably, the company announced a new Reach TV partnership, which adds premium airport video inventory and aligns with the company’s tourism-focused customer base. The Buy-side is the primary profit driver and likely will be for the next several quarters.
E.W. Scripps (SSP/$2.05 | Price Target: $10) Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 Jacob Mutchler jmutchler@noblefcm.com | Facing A Difficult Q4 Rating: OUTPERFORM
Q3 exceeds expectations. Adj. EBITDA of $80.4 million was better than our $71.5 million estimate, on revenues of $525.9 million, a little shy of our $528.5 million estimate. Employee compensation expenses were lower than our expectations, which accounted for the largest variance in our Q3 estimates, leading to the better than expected adj. EBITDA. Figure #1 Q3 Results highlights our estimates versus the results.
Q4 guidance reflects a difficult quarter. Management anticipates Local Media revenue to be down in the 30% range, with Local Media expenses to be down in the low single-digit percent range. Scripps Networks revenue is expected to be down in the low double-digit percent range, with expenses to be down in the low double-digit percent range. Shared services and corporate will be about $21 million.
Ocugen (OCGN/$1.38 | Price Target: $8) Robert LeBoyer rleboyer@noblefcm.com | (212) 896-4625 Clinical and Regulatory Milestones Are On or Ahead Of Expectations Rating: OUTPERFORM
Ocugen Reports 3Q25 With Milestones For FY2026. Ocugen reported a 3Q25 loss of $20.1 million or $(0.07) per share and gave updates on its clinical programs. Importantly, all three clinical trials are meeting or beating our expectations for progress toward the BLA filings. We continue to expect “3 filings in 3 years”, with the first approval in mid-2027.
OCU400 Expected To Start Rolling BLA Filing In 1H26. OCU400 received RMAT designation from the FDA, allowing portions of the BLA to be submitted as they are completed rather than waiting to submit the entire BLA at once. The non-clinical portions are planned for submission in early 2026, with clinical trial data submitted in 4Q26. This should start the FDA review earlier and allow for approval in mid-2027.
Saga Communications (SGA/$12.11 | Price Target: $18) Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 Business Stabilizes In Q3 Rating: OUTPERFORM
In-line quarter. Third quarter revenue of $28.2 million was in line with our $28.3 million estimate, representing a modest 1.8% decline against a Political advertising infused prior year period. Adj. EBITDA, excluding an extraordinary music licensing settlement expense, was $3.3 million, in line with our $3.4 million estimate as illustrated in Figure #1 Q3 Results.
Q3 revenues stabilize. Excluding Political advertising, the strength in Digital advertising more than offset the weakness in its core broadcast advertising. Digital advertising was up roughly 40% in the quarter. Management stated that Digital advertising continues with strong momentum into the fourth quarter, pacing a strong 32%.
SelectQuote (SLQT/$1.68 | Price Target: $7) Patrick McCann, CFA pmccann@noblefcm.com | (314) 724-6266 Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 Brief Pharmacy Disruption, Trajectory Intact Rating: OUTPERFORM
Mixed Fiscal Q1 results. SelectQuote reported Q1 revenue of $328.8 million, above our estimate of $310.0 million. Adj. EBITDA loss of $32.1 million was slightly wider than expected due to temporary pharmacy reimbursement headwinds. Overall, results showed resilient topline growth despite short-term margin pressure, reflecting solid execution across Healthcare Services and Senior segments in a seasonally lighter quarter.
Healthcare Services headwind. Lower reimbursement rates from one pharmacy benefit manager impacted both revenue and margins in Healthcare Services in the quarter. The reimbursement adjustment, tied to the PBM’s calendar-year 2025 pricing update, will continue through fiscal Q2, when management expects segment adj. EBITDA to reach breakeven before normalizing in the second half.
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Thursday, November 6, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
CoreCivic, Inc. (CXW)/OUTPERFORM – First Look at Third Quarter 2025 Kratos Defense & Security (KTOS)/OUTPERFORM – Solid Results and an Acquisition Lucky Strike Entertainment (LUCK)/OUTPERFORM – Hitting The Mark MariMed Inc (MRMD)/OUTPERFORM – First Look at Third Quarter 2025 The ODP Corporation (ODP)/MARKET PERFORM – Reports 3Q Results
CoreCivic, Inc. (CXW/$18.64 | Price Target: $28) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 First Look at Third Quarter 2025 Rating: OUTPERFORM
3Q25 Results. Revenue of $580.1 million was up 18.1% y-o-y and exceeded our $550.6 million estimate. Adjusted EBITDA came in at $88.8 million, up 6.6% y-o-y and just below our $91.7 million estimate. Net income totaled $26.3 million, or $0.24/sh, compared to $21.1 million, or $0.19/sh, last year. We were at $0.27/sh. CoreCivic is benefiting from ongoing demand for its services across its government partners, but particularly ICE.
ICE. ICE revenue increased 54.6% y-o-y to $215.9 million. With law enforcement as an essential government service, the extended government shutdown is not impacting detention populations or revenues. CoreCivic began receiving ICE populations at the newly reopened California City and West Tennessee facilities late in the third quarter, with stabilized occupancy expected during 1Q26.
Kratos Defense & Security (KTOS/$77.41 | Price Target: $95) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 Solid Results and an Acquisition Rating: OUTPERFORM
Overview. Kratos’ third quarter financial results are representative of the increasing demand for Kratos’ military grade hardware, systems, and software to support U.S. National Security and its allies. The number of opportunities Kratos has continues to grow. The Company currently has record levels of backlog and opportunity pipeline.
3Q25 Results. Third quarter 2025 revenues increased $71.7 million to $347.6 million from $275.9 million in the year ago period, reflecting 23.7% organic growth. This was above the high end of the $315-$325 million guidance. We were at $323 million. Adjusted EBITDA was $30.8 million, just above the high end of guidance. We were
Lucky Strike Entertainment (LUCK/$7.98 | Price Target: $17.5) Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 Jacob Mutchler jmutchler@noblefcm.com | Hitting The Mark Rating: OUTPERFORM
Solid Q1 results. The company reported revenue of $292.3 million, up 12.3% from the prior year period and 2.2% above our estimate of $286.0 million. Notably, the strong revenue growth was largely driven by new location openings and acquisitions of water parks and family entertainment centers (FEC). Same store sales were flat compared to the prior year. Adj. EBITDA of $72.7 million was in line with our estimate of $72.5 million, despite the higher revenue, primarily due to increases in location operating costs and payroll and benefit costs, in part from recent acquisitions.
Improved revenue outlook. While the events business declined 11% y-o-y, management noted that trends have begun to improve, with October marking the strongest month for events year-to-date. Additionally, the company’s retail and league revenue, remained resilient, posting modest growth of 1.4% and 2.1%, respectively. Furthermore, the company should benefit in Q4 from its recent acquisitions of water parks and FECs.
MariMed Inc (MRMD/$0.11 | Price Target: $0.25) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 First Look at Third Quarter 2025 Rating: OUTPERFORM
Overview. During the third quarter, MariMed continued to make progress on becoming a top-selling, national consumer cannabis brand. The Company had another strong quarter of wholesale sales, which is a core component of the ‘Expand the Brand’ growth strategy. Management improved profitability through disciplined cost management and operational efficiencies during the quarter.
3Q25 Results. Revenue came in at $40.8 million, up from $40.6 million in the year ago period, but below our $43 million estimate. MariMed delivered sequential growth in both wholesale and retail revenues in 3Q25. Adjusted gross margin was 41% versus 43% in 3Q24. Adjusted EBITDA increased to $5.1 million, or 13% margin, compared to $4.7 million and 12% in 3Q24. We were at $6 million. MariMed reported an adjusted net loss of $1.5 million in 3Q25 versus adjusted net income of $0.5 million in 3Q24.
The ODP Corporation (ODP/$27.89) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 Reports 3Q Results Rating: MARKET PERFORM
3Q25 Results. In likely the last quarterly report before being acquired, ODP released 3Q25 results in-line with our projections. Revenue of $1.625 billion was down 9% y-o-y. We were at $1.675 billion. Adjusted EBITDA came in at $62 million, flat y-o-y, and compared to our $66 million estimate. Net income was $23 million, or $0.72/sh, in-line with our $23 million estimate. Adjusted net income $36 million, or $1.14/sh, compared to $24 million, or $0.71/sh, in 3Q24.
Business Solutions. Segment sales of $862 million were down 6% y-o-y due to the soft economy. However, revenue trends improved 200 basis points y-o-y, driven by success in onboarding new customers, including 600 new hotel properties, targeted sales initiatives, and incremental growth in the hospitality sector. The Company is making progress on potential new agreements with several leading hospitality management companies. Segment OpInc. totaled $14 million versus $28 million in 3Q24.
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Wednesday, November 5, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
Great Lakes Dredge & Dock (GLDD)/OUTPERFORM – A Solid Third Quarter Kuya Silver (KUYAF)/OUTPERFORM – An Emerging Growth Story with Strong Leverage to Silver Lucky Strike Entertainment (LUCK)/OUTPERFORM – Water Parks Make A Wave In The Latest Quarter V2X (VVX)/OUTPERFORM – Record Revenue and Adjusted EPS Highlight Third Quarter
Great Lakes Dredge & Dock (GLDD/$12.77 | Price Target: $14) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 A Solid Third Quarter Rating: OUTPERFORM
3Q25 Results. Revenue was $195.2 million, up $4 million y-o-y, although slightly below our $200 million estimate. Adjusted EBITDA totaled $39.3 million, or a 20.1% margin, up from $27 million in 3Q24, and above our $30.5 million estimate. Great Lakes reported EPS of $0.26, up from $0.13 in 3Q24 and our $0.16 projection. Results were driven by high equipment utilization and strong project execution.
Backlog. During the third quarter, Great Lakes was awarded new projects totaling $136 million, for a quarterly book-to-bill of 0.7x. Dredging backlog stood at $934.5 million as of the end of the third quarter, with an additional $193.5 million in low bids and options pending award, providing revenue visibility for the remainder of 2025 and well into 2026. Offshore Energy backlog was $73 million at quarter’s end.
Kuya Silver (KUYAF/$0.28 | Price Target: $1.4) Mark Reichman mreichman@noblefcm.com | (561) 999-2272 Hans Baldau hbaldau@noblefcm.com | An Emerging Growth Story with Strong Leverage to Silver Rating: OUTPERFORM
Initiating coverage with a per share price target of US$1.40 or C$2.00. Kuya Silver Corporation (CSE: KUYA; OTCQB: KUYAF) is an emerging silver producer focused on precious metals assets in mining-friendly jurisdictions. The company’s flagship Bethania Silver Project in central Peru anchors a portfolio that also includes the Silver Kings Project in Ontario and a joint venture interest in the Umm Hadid silver-gold project in Saudi Arabia.
Bethania flagship project. After successfully restarting operations in 2024 through toll milling, Kuya has demonstrated steady operational improvements, highlighted by record concentrate sales and recoveries exceeding 91% in the third quarter of 2025. Mining has advanced into multiple production stopes, while key infrastructure upgrades have reduced downtime and increased reliability. Development of a new 3.5-by-3.5-meter haulage ramp will enhance mine access and material handling, positioning the operation to achieve 100 tonnes per day (tpd) by year-end 2025 and 350 tpd by the third quarter of 2026.
Lucky Strike Entertainment (LUCK/$8.07 | Price Target: $17.5) Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 Jacob Mutchler jmutchler@noblefcm.com | Water Parks Make A Wave In The Latest Quarter Rating: OUTPERFORM
Solid Q1 results. The company reported revenue of $292.3 million, up 12.3% from the prior year period and 2.2% above our estimate of $286.0 million, as illustrated in Figure # 1 Q1 Results. Notably, the strong revenue growth was largely driven by new location openings and acquisitions of water parks and family entertainment centers (FEC). Same store sales were flat compared to the prior year. Adj. EBITDA of $72.7 million was in line with our estimate of $72.5 million, despite the higher revenue, primarily due to increases in location operating costs and payroll and benefit costs, in part from recent acquisitions.
Improved revenue outlook. While the events business declined 11% y-o-y, management noted that trends have begun to improve, with October marking the strongest month for events year-to-date. Additionally, the company’s retail and league revenue, remained resilient, posting modest growth of 1.4% and 2.1%, respectively. Furthermore, the company should benefit in Q4 from its recent water park and FEC acquisitions.
V2X (VVX/$57.11 | Price Target: $72) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 Record Revenue and Adjusted EPS Highlight Third Quarter Rating: OUTPERFORM
Strong Operating Environment. V2X’s third quarter results demonstrated the Company’s continued focus on operational and strategic execution. Business trends remain positive and are being driven by continued demand for mission readiness solutions, even in the face of the government shutdown.
3Q25 Results. Revenue grew 8% year-over-year in the third quarter to a record $1.17 billion, driven by continued demand for V2X solutions. V2X delivered adjusted EBITDA of $85.2 million, with a margin of 7.3% in 3Q25. Net income for the quarter was $24.6 million, an increase of $9.6 million, or 63%, from the prior year. Adjusted net income was $43.7 million, an increase of $2.4 million, or 6%, year-over-year. Third quarter GAAP diluted EPS was $0.77. Adjusted diluted EPS for the quarter was $1.37, an increase of 6% year-over-year. We had projected $1.15 billion, $79 million, $0.45, and $1.23, respectively.
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Tuesday, November 4, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
Comstock (LODE)/OUTPERFORM – Reaching a Turning Point; Upgrading to Outperform Information Services Group (III)/OUTPERFORM – AI Powered Momentum Resources Connection (RGP)/OUTPERFORM – A Transition At The Top Superior Group of Companies (SGC)/OUTPERFORM – The Quarter Highlights Attractive Profit Growth Potential
Comstock (LODE/$2.95 | Price Target: $6.75) Mark Reichman mreichman@noblefcm.com | (561) 999-2272 Reaching a Turning Point; Upgrading to Outperform Rating: OUTPERFORM
Raising our rating to Outperform. We are raising our investment rating to Outperform from Market Perform with a price target of $6.75 per share. With the completion of an equity offering in August that raised net proceeds of $31.8 million, Comstock has eliminated its debt obligations and is expected to be able to fund Comstock Metals’ first commercial-scale metal recycling facility. We think the company is in a much stronger position to execute its growth plans.
Comstock Metals offers investors a visible growth path. Comstock Metals is anticipated to commission a commercial-scale recycling facility with 100,000 tons per year of capacity during the first quarter of 2026 and begin ramping up operations during the second quarter. In 2026, we expect the facility to process approximately 25,225 tons of solar panels, generating revenues of $12.6 million from tipping fees, $5.0 million from mineral and metal recoveries, and a gross operating profit of $13.9 million. We expect the facility to operate at 100,000 tons per year in 2027.
Information Services Group (III/$6.07 | Price Target: $6.5) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 AI Powered Momentum Rating: OUTPERFORM
3Q25. Operating performance in 3Q25 exceeded expectations. Revenue came in at $62.4 million, up 1.8% y-o-y and up 8.8% excluding divested operations. Adjusted EBITDA grew 19% to $8.4 million and adjusted EBITDA margin expanded nearly 200 basis points to 13.5%, again ex divested ops. ISG reported GAAP net income of 3.1 million, or EPS of $0.03/sh, compared to $1.1 million, or EPS of $0.02/sh, last year. Adjusted EPS was $0.09 versus $0.05 last year.
AI and Recurring Revenue. Management noted revenue derived from AI-related activities accounted for some $20 million of overall revenue in the quarter. Recurring revenue was $28 million, up 9% year-over-year, representing 45% of overall revenue. We expect both AI-related revenue and overall recurring revenue to increase going forward.
Resources Connection (RGP/$4.68 | Price Target: $10) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 A Transition At The Top Rating: OUTPERFORM
A CEO Transition. Yesterday, Resources Connection announced the appointment of Board member Roger Carlile to serve as President and CEO, effective immediately. The leadership change comes as the Company seeks to advance its strategic transformation. Concurrently, former President and CEO Kate Duchene has transitioned to Executive Advisor through January 3, 2026.
Carlile at RGP. Mr. Carlile joined RGP’s Board of Directors in June 2024. Since joining the Board, Mr. Carlile has been working with the Company on the growth strategy with a focus on CFO Advisory and Digital Transformation consulting solutions. As CEO, Mr. Carlile brings a strong combination of skills, as both a former CFO of a public consulting firm and the founder and former CEO of a high-growth consulting firm, and has proven expertise in professional services management, investor engagement, and capital allocation strategies.
Superior Group of Companies (SGC/$9.87 | Price Target: $16) Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 Jacob Mutchler jmutchler@noblefcm.com | The Quarter Highlights Attractive Profit Growth Potential Rating: OUTPERFORM
In-line quarter. While revenues were a tad lighter than we hoped, the company over delivered on its SG&A cuts. As such, adj. EBITDA was in line with expectations. The modest revenue variance was completely due to softer Contact Center revenue. A portion of the revenue decline was due to the loss of a client, but there appears to be a strong pipeline of business. As such, Contact Center revenue trends should improve in subsequent quarters.
Cost cutting initiatives take center stage. SG&A expenses declined in each of the company’s operating segments, with cuts that exceeded expectations in each segment, as well. We believe that the cost reductions set the company up well for significant margin expansion as the market environment returns toward “normalcy.”
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Monday, November 3, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
ACCO Brands (ACCO)/OUTPERFORM – A Mixed Quarter DLH Holdings (DLHC)/OUTPERFORM – Some Good, Some Not So Good Gyre Therapeutics, Inc (GYRE)/OUTPERFORM – Looking Forward To Phase 3 Data Presentation This Week
ACCO Brands (ACCO/$3.76 | Price Target: $9) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 A Mixed Quarter Rating: OUTPERFORM
Soft Environment. ACCO’s third quarter operating results continue to reflect a soft end market environment, with reported revenue below expectations. However, the Company delivered third quarter adjusted EPS in line with the outlook and expanded gross margin by 50 basis points as the Company continued to demonstrate strong operational discipline through ongoing execution of the $100 million cost reduction program.
Financials. Revenue of $383.7 million was down 8.8% from $420.9 million in 3Q24, modestly below management’s expected decline of 5-8%. We were at $392 million. Comp sales were down 10.3%, reflecting softer global demand. Adjusted net income was $19.5 million, compared with adjusted net income of $22.5 million in 2024, and adjusted earnings per share were $0.21, within the $0.21-$0.24 guide, but down from $0.23 in 2024. We had estimated adjusted EPS of $0.23.
DLH Holdings (DLHC/$6.22 | Price Target: $10) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 Some Good, Some Not So Good Rating: OUTPERFORM
New Data. DLH filed an 8-K disclosing some preliminary financial data for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2025, and updates on its CMOP (the good) and Head Start (not so good) contracts. Bad news first: DLH has lost the Head Start contract, which went to a small business. This contract generated $40 million of revenue in fiscal 2024 and $28.4 million in the first nine months of fiscal 2025. With the government shutdown ongoing, the status of protests from unsuccessful bidders is unclear.
CMOP. On the positive side, DLH has been awarded a sole-source ID/IQ to continue providing pharmacy and logistics services for 4 CMOP locations. The contract has a ceiling value of $90 million and has a maximum performance period through April 2027. The Company expects the quarterly revenue contribution from these contracts to be approximately $28 million, in-line with current revenue volume on this contract.
Gyre Therapeutics, Inc (GYRE/$7.75 | Price Target: $20) Robert LeBoyer rleboyer@noblefcm.com | (212) 896-4625 Looking Forward To Phase 3 Data Presentation This Week Rating: OUTPERFORM
Phase 3 Data To Be Presented At A Medical Meeting. Presentation of data from the Hydronidone Phase 3 trial is scheduled for Friday, November 7,2025 at the The Liver Meeting, the annual conference of the American Association for the Study of Liver Disease (AASLD). This presentation is expected to give detailed clinical data on the actions Hydronidone in liver fibrosis associated with chronic hepatitis B infection. We see this indication as proof of concept as well as a revenue opportunity.
We Expect Additional Clinical Trial Details To Be Presented. The Phase 3 trial met its primary endpoint of regression of liver fibrosis, with treated patients showing a regression rate of 52.85% compared with a placebo patient rate of 29.84% (p=0.0002). This reduction compared with placebo is both statistically significant and clinically meaningful. An important secondary endpoint, reduction in inflammation, also showed meaningful improvement.
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Friday, October 31, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
1-800-Flowers.com (FLWS)/MARKET PERFORM – Likely To Be A Bumpy Ride In The Near Term Cumulus Media (CMLS)/MARKET PERFORM – National Advertising Perplexingly Weak NN (NNBR)/OUTPERFORM – Moving Forward With Transformation
1-800-Flowers.com (FLWS/$3.62) Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 Jacob Mutchler jmutchler@noblefcm.com | Likely To Be A Bumpy Ride In The Near Term Rating: MARKET PERFORM
Q1 Results. The company reported Q1 revenue of $215.2 million, and an adj. EBITDA loss of $32.9 million, both of which were largely in line with our estimates of $217.9 million and a loss of $33.0 million, respectively. Revenue decreased 11.1% over the prior year period, in part, driven by the company’s strategic decision to focus on positive marketing contribution.
Focused on profitability. In an effort to mitigate the impact of tariffs and soft demand, there is a focus on reducing costs and maintaining stable profitability. As such, operating expenses were $127.3 million in the quarter, down $12 million y-o-y. When excluding non-recurring charges and deferred compensation effects, operating expenses were $124.9 million. The operational expense reductions were driven by a 15.8% reduction in marketing spend, reduced labor costs, and early progress from the company’s efficiency initiatives.
Cumulus Media (CMLS/$0.1034) Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 Jacob Mutchler jmutchler@noblefcm.com | National Advertising Perplexingly Weak Rating: MARKET PERFORM
Q3 beats our downcast expectations. Q3 revenue of $180.3 million and adj. EBITDA of $16.7 million, both of which were modestly better than our estimates of $179.0 million and $12.9 million, respectively. Third quarter revenues declined 11.5% from the prior period, adversely affected by the absence of $3.6 million in Political advertising and the absence of The Daily Wire and The Dan Bongino Show.
DMS remains a bright spot. The Digital Marketing Services (DMS) business remains a bright spot, with revenue surging 34% in the quarter. Notably, the digital segment now represents approximately 50% of total digital segment revenue, helping to offset persistent weakness in the core broadcast radio business.
NN (NNBR/$1.63 | Price Target: $6) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 Moving Forward With Transformation Rating: OUTPERFORM
3Q25. NN reported 3Q25 results that were below expectations, although there were some y-o-y improvements. Revenue of $103.9 million was down 8.5% y-o-y on a reported basis and down 4.4% on a pro forma basis. We had projected $115 million, and the consensus was $112 million. Gross margin rose to 16.8% and 18.8% on an adjusted basis, up from 14.5% and 16.8%, respectively, in 3Q24. Adjusted EBITDA grew to $12.4 million, or an 11.9% margin, up from $11.6 million and 10.2% last year. We had forecast $13.6 million. Adjusted net loss was $0.01/sh. We and consensus were at EPS of $0.01.
New Business. NN reported third quarter new business wins of $11.3 million, led by strategic wins in North America auto, fire protection, and aerospace and defense products. YTD, the Company has won $44.4 million of new business. Management’s goal remains to win $60-$70 million annually.
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Wednesday, October 29, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
Alliance Resource Partners (ARLP)/OUTPERFORM – Third Quarter Results Exceed Our Expectations Aurania Resources (AUIAF)/OUTPERFORM – Establishing a Toehold in Critical Metals InPlay Oil (IPOOF)/OUTPERFORM – Soft Commodity Pricing Drives Estimate Revisions MariMed Inc (MRMD)/OUTPERFORM – Exiting Missouri Perfect (PERF)/OUTPERFORM – Turning the Corner to Operating Profit Travelzoo (TZOO)/OUTPERFORM – Hits A Little Turbulence On Its Ascent Unicycive Therapeutics (UNCY)/OUTPERFORM – Resubmission For Approval Expected Before Year-End 2025
Alliance Resource Partners (ARLP/$24.31 | Price Target: $33) Mark Reichman mreichman@noblefcm.com | (561) 999-2272 Hans Baldau hbaldau@noblefcm.com | Third Quarter Results Exceed Our Expectations Rating: OUTPERFORM
Third quarter financial results. Alliance reported third quarter adjusted EBITDA and earnings per unit (EPU) of $185.8 million and $0.73, respectively, compared to $170.4 million and $0.66 during the prior year period. We had projected EBITDA and EPU of $176.2 million and $0.68. Total revenue amounted to $571.4 million compared to $613.6 million during the prior year period and our $577.9 million estimate. While revenue from coal sales exceeded our estimate, oil and gas royalties, transportation, and other revenues were below. Third quarter results benefited from expenses that were lower than our estimates and contributions from equity method investments and the change in value of ARLP’s digital assets.
Outlook for the remainder of 2025 and 2026. Management updated its 2025 guidance. Within ARLP’s coal operation, guidance ranges were narrowed. Total sales are expected to be between 32.50 million tons and 33.25 million tons compared to prior guidance of between 32.75 million tons and 34.0 million tons. Within the oil and gas royalty segment, volumes were lowered to reflect the timing of a multi-well pad in the Delaware Basin of the Permian, which is expected to come online in early 2026.
Aurania Resources (AUIAF/$0.18 | Price Target: $0.35) Mark Reichman mreichman@noblefcm.com | (561) 999-2272 Hans Baldau hbaldau@noblefcm.com | Establishing a Toehold in Critical Metals Rating: OUTPERFORM
Potential critical metals recovery project. Aurania Resources Ltd. executed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Society for the Remediation and Environmental Development of the former Balangero asbestos mine, otherwise known as RSA, and Firestone Ventures Inc. Dr. Keith Barron, Aurania’s Chief Executive Officer and director, is the President and Director of Firestone. The MOU allows for data collection and sampling of tailings at the former Balangero mine, which operated from 1916 to 1990, and is near Turin, Italy. Aurania will evaluate the tailings to recover nickel and cobalt, two critical metals for electric battery production.
Pathway to a commercial agreement. The MOU has a one-year term, and if results prove favorable, the parties are expected to enter into a commercial agreement to extract metals from the waste piles. Firestone would then conduct carbon capture on the waste stream, using industrial carbon dioxide to neutralize the contained asbestos and convert it into a useful form of carbon. Aurania and Firestone have exclusive access to the site for this evaluation.
Updating third quarter 2025 estimates. While we are maintaining our third-quarter production forecast of 18,695 barrels of oil equivalent per day (boe/d), we lowered our third-quarter 2025 revenue, adjusted funds flow (AFF), and AFF per share estimates to C$86.8 million, C$28.0 million, and C$1.00, respectively, from C$89.3 million, C$38.9 million, and C$1.39. These changes reflect modestly lower commodity pricing, along with higher royalty costs and operating expenses. We expect third-quarter operating expenses to be elevated due to turnaround activity and downtime associated with the recently completed gas plant expansion.
Revising full-year 2025 estimates. For the full year 2025, we forecast revenue of C$301.9 million, AFF of C$116.3 million, and AFF per share of C$4.71, compared to prior estimates of C$306.7 million, C$131.8 million, and C$5.34. These reductions primarily reflect a weaker pricing environment, partially offset by a modest increase in our full-year production forecast to 16,851 boe/d from 16,800, driven by higher fourth quarter production expectations.
MariMed Inc (MRMD/$0.13 | Price Target: $0.25) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 Exiting Missouri Rating: OUTPERFORM
An Exit. As noted in its 2Q25 call, MariMed undertook a review of its Missouri operations and has determined to exit the market, effective immediately. Exiting Missouri is expected to improve the Company’s overall financial performance, particularly gross margin and adjusted EBITDA, and allow management to focus resources on higher return opportunities, such as markets where the Company has established retail and wholesale operations.
Background. Since 2024, the Company has managed the Missouri operations of another licensed cannabis operator and distributed certain of its brands there under a Managed Services and Licensing Agreement, while awaiting license transfer approval from the state. The Company only began generating revenue in Missouri at the tail-end of 2024. While MariMed’s brands performed well where available, reaching scale in the state would require significant resources, resources that management believes can be better utilized in its core markets. Nonetheless, the Company will consider licensing opportunities in Missouri with a vertical operator.
Perfect (PERF/$2.05 | Price Target: $5) Patrick McCann, CFA pmccann@noblefcm.com | (314) 724-6266 Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 Turning the Corner to Operating Profit Rating: OUTPERFORM
Q3 beat. Perfect reported Q3 revenue of $18.7 million, up 15.7% Y/Y and above our estimate of $17.8 million, with adj. EBITDA of $1.2 million, double expectations. Revenue growth was led by strong B2C performance. The company also achieved its first quarter of operating profit, reflecting greater scale efficiency and disciplined cost control.
Continued strength in B2C. YouCam subscribers totaled 946K, down slightly, likely due to price hikes that the company initiated, which have led to higher revenue per user. B2C strength remains solid, supported by the YouCam AI Agent, which links apps under a unified login to personalize experiences and increase retention. Two apps are integrated, with full rollout expected by year-end.
Travelzoo (TZOO/$8.31 | Price Target: $21) Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 Jacob Mutchler jmutchler@noblefcm.com | Hits A Little Turbulence On Its Ascent Rating: OUTPERFORM
Softer than expected Q3 Results. The company reported Q3 revenue of $22.2 million, an increase of a solid 10.4%, and adj. EBITDA of $0.9 million, both of which were below our estimates of $23.0 million and $2.9 million, respectively. Importantly, the modestly softer than expected results were largely driven by weakness in advertising and increased marketing spend on customer acquisition.
Customer acquisition. Notably, in Q3, customer acquisition costs increased to $40 per customer, up from $38 in Q2 and $28 in Q1, reflecting the company’s strategic efforts to grow its subscriber base. Furthermore, despite higher acquisition spend per customer, return on spend remains positive. Total return per customer in Q3 was $55, which consists of $40 from annual subscription fees and $15 from in-quarter transactions. While this strategy impacted adj. EBITDA in Q3, it’s supportive of a favorable long term growth outlook.
Unicycive Therapeutics (UNCY/$4.72 | Price Target: $60) Robert LeBoyer rleboyer@noblefcm.com | (212) 896-4625 Resubmission For Approval Expected Before Year-End 2025 Rating: OUTPERFORM
Unicycive Expects To Resubmit Its Application Before YE2025. Unicycive announced plans to resubmit its application for OLC (oxylanthanum carbonate) approval before the end of 2025. This follows a meeting with the FDA to identify and resolve issues that resulted in the Complete Response Letter (CRL) in June 2025. This timeframe is consistent with our expectations for resubmission. We continue to expect OLC to be approved by mid-2026.
Resubmission Announcement Follows An FDA Meeting. In early June 2025, Unicycive announced that a manufacturing inspection found deficiencies at a contract manufacturer’s facility. These inspections were one of the last steps toward approval of the New Drug Application (NDA), but the findings stopped the review process. Following the announcement, the company received a CRL on its PDUFA date of June 30, 2025.
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Tuesday, October 28, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
Great Lakes Dredge & Dock (GLDD)/OUTPERFORM – Some Debt Restructuring The Beachbody Company (BODI)/OUTPERFORM – Strong Brands To Flex Toward Growth
Great Lakes Dredge & Dock (GLDD/$11.03 | Price Target: $14) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 Some Debt Restructuring Rating: OUTPERFORM
Debt Restructuring. Yesterday, Great Lakes announced it completed an amendment to its existing Revolving Credit Facility, upsizing the facility by $100 million to $430 million and extending its maturity to October 2030 from June of 2029. We believe the expansion of Great Lakes’ revolving credit facility highlights the strength of the Company’s business and its credit profile.
Second Lien Payoff. Significantly, as part of this transaction, the Company utilized the increased revolver capacity to fully repay the $100 million second lien notes issued in 2024. This will save the Company some $6 million per year in interest expense. Great Lakes’ balance sheet remain solid, with no debt maturities until 2029 and a weighted average interest rate now under 6%.
The Beachbody Company (BODI/$5.08 | Price Target: $12) Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 Jacob Mutchler jmutchler@noblefcm.com | Strong Brands To Flex Toward Growth Rating: OUTPERFORM
Initiating with an Outperform rating. After years of revenue declines, we believe that the company is on the cusp of a swing toward revenue growth, offering a breakout opportunity for a stock that has been range-bound. We are initiating coverage with an Outperform rating and a $12 price target.
Well-recognized brands with growth potential. The company has established brands in workout videos, such as Insanity and P90x, and nutritional supplements, including Shakeology, Beachbar, and Beachbody Performance. Such strong brands are expected to support the company’s revenue growth initiatives as it expands distribution of its products into mass merchants.
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Friday, October 24, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
MariMed Inc (MRMD)/OUTPERFORM – A Move Into New York
MariMed Inc (MRMD/$0.1426 | Price Target: $0.25) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 A Move Into New York Rating: OUTPERFORM
New York. Continuing its market expansion, MariMed announced a licensing agreement with Farm 2 Hand, LLC, a New York State cannabis license holder, that will introduce the Company’s top-selling portfolio of products throughout New York State. Terms of the agreement were not disclosed. This expansion follows on the heels of the earlier Pennsylvania and Maine expansions, significantly increasing MariMed’s total addressable market, in our view.
Details. Farm 2 Hand intends to manufacture and distribute a variety of MariMed’s edible products as permitted under New York regulations. Those are initially expected to include Betty’s Eddies fruit chews, Bubby’s Baked goods, and InHouse gummies. The products will be produced in a new kitchen that MariMed will design and equip for Farm 2 Hand at Farm 2 Hand’s Bronx production facility.
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Thursday, October 23, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
Cocrystal Pharma (COCP)/OUTPERFORM – Highlights From Noble’s Virtual Conference Hemisphere Energy (HMENF)/OUTPERFORM – Adjusting Our Third Quarter and Full Year 2025 Estimates Nutriband (NTRB)/OUTPERFORM – Highlights From Noble’s Virtual Conference Superior Group of Companies (SGC)/OUTPERFORM – Looking Beyond The Third Quarter The Oncology Institute, Inc. (TOI)/OUTPERFORM – Highlights From Noble’s Virtual Conference
Cocrystal Pharma (COCP/$1.03 | Price Target: $10) Robert LeBoyer rleboyer@noblefcm.com | (212) 896-4625 Highlights From Noble’s Virtual Conference Rating: OUTPERFORM
Proprietary Technology & Drug Design. James Wilson, Chief Financial Officer and Co-CEO, participated in Noble’s Virtual Emerging Growth Conference on October 8th & 9th. The discussion focused on the company’s core technology to design antiviral compounds that bind to highly conserved, essential areas of the viral replication machinery, as well as progress updates on the product pipeline.The full video may be viewed here.
Lead Program & Near-Term Catalyst In Norovirus. The company’s most advanced program is CDI-988, an oral drug for norovirus. This lead indication was chosen strategically because there are no approved vaccines or therapeutics for norovirus. The market is significant, with a stated $60 billion annual market opportunity.
Hemisphere Energy (HMENF/$1.45 | Price Target: $2.45) Mark Reichman mreichman@noblefcm.com | (561) 999-2272 Hans Baldau hbaldau@noblefcm.com | Adjusting Our Third Quarter and Full Year 2025 Estimates Rating: OUTPERFORM
Third quarter estimate update. We have trimmed our third-quarter revenue and net income estimates to C$21.6 million and C$6.9 million, respectively, from C$23.5 million and C$7.5 million. Additionally, we have lowered our adjusted funds flow (AFF) and AFF per share estimates to C$10.0 million and C$0.10, respectively, from C$10.7 million and C$0.11.
Full-year estimate changes. For the full year 2025, we project revenues and net income of C$93.7 million and C$27.4 million, respectively, compared to our previous estimates of C$97.7 million and C$29.6 million. Moreover, we have lowered our AFF and AFF per share estimates to C$41.0 million and C$0.41, respectively, from C$43.3 million and C$0.43.
Nutriband (NTRB/$7.04 | Price Target: $15) Robert LeBoyer rleboyer@noblefcm.com | (212) 896-4625 Highlights From Noble’s Virtual Conference Rating: OUTPERFORM
Nutriband Is Developing Transdermal Abuse-Deterrent Technologies. Nutriband has developed abuse-deterrent technology for dermal patch drug delivery. Serguei Melnik, Interim CEO, and Irina Gram, Director, highlighted the company’s platform, known as AVERSA, and its focus on patches containing FDA-approved drugs. The presentation may be viewed here.
Lead Product & Market Opportunity. The lead product, AVERSA Fentanyl, is an abuse-deterrent fentanyl patch. Upon approval, the FDA could mandate such technology for all fentanyl patches, the same way it required opioid pills to have abuse-deterrents. Market analysis by Advanced Health projects annual sales of $200 million for the branded AVERSA Fentanyl. If the abuse-resistant patch were mandated and replaced generic patches, sales could reach $800 million. A patch with improved safety and abuse-deterrence could reverse the decline in fentanyl prescriptions caused by reluctance to prescribe a drug with known abuse potential.
Superior Group of Companies (SGC/$10.19 | Price Target: $16) Michael Kupinski mkupinski@noblefcm.com | (561) 994-5734 Jacob Mutchler jmutchler@noblefcm.com | Looking Beyond The Third Quarter Rating: OUTPERFORM
Q3 Preview. We expect that there will be some impact on the third quarter from the “pull forward” in Branded Product revenue into the second quarter as consumers reacted ahead of possible trade policy changes. As such, we are modestly lowering our Q3 revenue and earnings expectations, highlighted in Figure #1 Q3 Revisions.
Largest variance. The largest adjustment to our Q3 revenue estimate is in Branded Products, revised from $89.8 million to $85.0 million. In our view, this segment offers one of the largest upside surprise potential in Q4, which could benefit from an improving macro economy.
The Oncology Institute, Inc. (TOI/$4.39 | Price Target: $8) Robert LeBoyer rleboyer@noblefcm.com | (212) 896-4625 Highlights From Noble’s Virtual Conference Rating: OUTPERFORM
TOI Is Addressing The Unsustainable Cost Trend In Oncology. The Oncology Institute manages medical clinics that have improved outcomes and patient satisfaction while reducing the cost of cancer treatment. Dr. Daniel Virnich, CEO, and Rob Carter, CFO, highlighted the benefits of the company’s hybrid model of employed physicians and contracted independent community oncologists. The video of the company’s presentation may be viewed here.
Differentiated Competitive Advantage. TOI distinguishes itself from competitors in the value-based oncology field through its ownership of clinical assets (employed physicians and clinics). This provides greater control over care delivery compared to pure utilization management firms (such as Evolent’s New Century Health) or care navigation models (such as Thyme Care). This control enables higher compliance with value-based prescribing pathways, better integration of ancillary services, and more predictable and significant cost savings for payers.
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Tuesday, October 21, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
Century Lithium Corp. (CYDVF)/OUTPERFORM – Angel Island’s Commercial Appeal Grows with Lithium Hydroxide Production Graham (GHM)/MARKET PERFORM – A Tuck In Acquisition Twin Hospitality (TWNP)/OUTPERFORM – A High-Growth, Asset Light Restaurant Franchisor
Century Lithium Corp. (CYDVF/$0.2 | Price Target: $2.3) Mark Reichman mreichman@noblefcm.com | (561) 999-2272 Hans Baldau hbaldau@noblefcm.com | Angel Island’s Commercial Appeal Grows with Lithium Hydroxide Production Rating: OUTPERFORM
Century produces high-purity lithium hydroxide. Century Lithium produced its first samples of lithium hydroxide from lithium carbonate derived from Angel Island’s lithium claystone deposit and treated at its demonstration plant using the company’s patent-pending alkaline leach and direct lithium extraction (DLE) process. Century had previously focused on making lithium carbonate. By producing high-purity lithium hydroxide, Century has demonstrated an ability to produce another major lithium product for the domestic market.
Pursuing a direct lithium conversion process. Lithium hydroxide samples were produced onsite in a batch process using conventional liming conversion with calcium hydroxide to produce lithium hydroxide with a purity level of 99.5% or greater. Century is pursuing a direct lithium conversion (DLC) process to produce lithium hydroxide directly from lithium chloride solution, which would bypass producing lithium carbonate in an intermediate stage to simplify the process and reduce energy consumption and operating costs.
Graham (GHM/$61.81) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 A Tuck In Acquisition Rating: MARKET PERFORM
An Acquisition. Yesterday, after the market close, Graham announced the acquisition of certain specified assets of Xdot Bearing Technologies (“Xdot”), a specialized consulting, design, and engineering firm focused on foil bearing technology. While the acquisition price was not revealed, Graham noted Xdot has annual sales of approximately $1 million and is expected to be slightly accretive to the Company’s fiscal year 2026 GAAP net income.
Xdot. Xdot has developed and patented a breakthrough foil bearing design that delivers superior performance while lowering development and production costs. Xdot’s products are complementary to the existing product portfolio of Graham’s Barber-Nichols (BN) subsidiary and will expand capabilities within BN. Notably, Dr. Erik Swanson, Founder, President, and Chief Engineer of Xdot is a world renowned expert in foil bearing analysis, application, and fabrication and will join the BN team upon closing.
Twin Hospitality (TWNP/$3.89 | Price Target: $10) Joe Gomes, CFA jgomes@noblefcm.com | 561-999-2262 A High-Growth, Asset Light Restaurant Franchisor Rating: OUTPERFORM
Initiation. We are initiating equity research coverage on Twin Hospitality Group with an Outperform rating and $10 price target. Twin Hospitality is a franchisor and operator of two specialty casual dining restaurant concepts: Twin Peaks and Smokey Bones. The Company is a high-growth, asset light restaurant franchisor with a compelling franchisee value proposition, in our view. On January 29, 2025, parent company FAT Brands distributed approximately 5% of Twin Hospitality Class A shares to FAT Brands shareholders, bringing Twin Hospitality public.
A Premium Sports Bar Leader. Twin Hospitality currently operates approximately 115 Twin Peaks locations, consisting of 35 Company-owned and 80 franchised units. Twin Peaks offers a differentiated sports bar experience, from the lodge experience, to its signature 28-degree draft beer, a made-from-scratch menu, always-on wall-to-wall TVs, to the Twin Peaks Ambassadors, every customer receives an experience differentiated from the competition.
Noble Capital Markets Research Report Thursday, October 16, 2025
Companies contained in today’s report:
Alliance Resource Partners (ARLP)/OUTPERFORM – Highlights from the Noble Emerging Growth Virtual Conference Comstock (LODE)/MARKET PERFORM – Strategic Acquisition Expands Nevada Mining Footprint Nicola Mining Inc. (HUSIF)/OUTPERFORM – Hitting All the Right Notes
Alliance Resource Partners (ARLP/$24.6 | Price Target: $32) Mark Reichman mreichman@noblefcm.com | (561) 999-2272 Hans Baldau hbaldau@noblefcm.com | Highlights from the Noble Emerging Growth Virtual Conference Rating: OUTPERFORM
Noble virtual conference. Alliance recently participated in Noble Capital Markets’ Emerging Growth Virtual Conference. The fundamental outlook for ARLP’s coal operations and oil and gas royalty business, the two largest drivers of cash flow, remains favorable. The coal and electric power generation industries are expected to benefit from Trump Administration policies that seek to assure affordable, reliable, and secure energy sources to meet growing demand for electricity. Through 2Q 2025, Alliance has invested $758 million in its oil and gas royalty business that has generated cumulative segment adjusted EBITDA of $622 million. While they have grown the oil and gas royalty business without the use of leverage, they do have the ability to employ leverage for larger acquisitions. A link to the presentation is here.
Capital allocation. Management takes a long-term view when making capital allocation decisions, with balance sheet strength being the highest priority. The next priority is investing in its coal business to ensure it remains an efficient and low-cost producer. The third priority is reinvesting the cash flow generated by the oil and gas business to make accretive acquisitions. Lastly, the company intends to return capital to shareholders, including attractive cash distribution payments, while ensuring flexibility to fund growth opportunities.
Acquisition of Haywood Quarry. Comstock completed the acquisition of the Haywood Quarry industrial and mineral properties from Decommissioning Services LLC. The 190-acre property, located in Lyon County, Nevada, includes available power, water, and direct access to U.S. Highway 50. The site historically hosted gold mining and aggregate operations and is strategically contiguous to Comstock’s flagship Dayton gold and silver resource.
Transaction terms. Comstock acquired the property for a total of $2.2 million in cash and stock from Decommissioning Services LLC. The transaction provides Comstock with full ownership and control of the Haywood industrial and mineral properties, integrating them into its broader Lyon County mineral estate. The purchase also enhances Comstock’s strategic flexibility in advancing mine planning, resource development, and reclamation initiatives at the Dayton complex.
Nicola Mining Inc. (HUSIF/$0.77 | Price Target: $1.2) Mark Reichman mreichman@noblefcm.com | (561) 999-2272 Hitting All the Right Notes Rating: OUTPERFORM
Treasure Mountain exploration. Nicola Mining Inc. (OTCQB: HUSIF, TSXV: NIM) provided an update on its plan for 2026 exploration drilling at the Treasure Mountain Silver Project. The area of exploration interest is northwest of the currently suspended mine and consists of several northeast to southwest trending and steeply dipping sulphide-rich veins. Results from previous exploration work confirmed the presence of vein-hosted silver, copper, lead, zinc, and gold, providing support for initial diamond drilling to establish the width of the trend and mineralization at depth.
Recent gold sales. Talisker Resources (OTCQB: TSKFF, TSX: TSK) has an agreement to process run-of-mine material from its Mustang Mine at Nicola’s Merritt Mill. For the quarter ending on September 30, a total of 1,569 ounces of gold were produced from Talisker’s Mustang Mine. Nicola receives a share of the gross profit from milling ore sourced from Talisker Resources Ltd. Blue Lagoon Resources Inc. (OTCQB: BLAGF, CSE: BLLG) recently announced an amended mining and milling partnership agreement with Nicola Mining, extending the partnership to a 10-year term. The agreement secures a long-term processing solution for mineralized material from Blue Lagoon’s high-grade Dome Mountain Gold Project.
U.S. tariff policy has undergone a dramatic transformation in 2025, reshaping the economic backdrop that investors will carry into the new year. Average tariff rates that once hovered near historic lows have surged above 15%, marking one of the sharpest shifts toward protectionism in decades. As 2026 approaches, market analysts widely expect these levels to remain largely intact, creating a new operating environment for companies—especially small-cap firms that are more sensitive to input costs and domestic demand.
Policy expectations across Wall Street suggest that the current tariff framework is no longer temporary. Multiple economic models now assume an average tariff rate near 15% through at least the first half of 2026. While limited exemptions may be granted on select goods, few observers see a broad rollback on the horizon. The implication is that businesses, investors, and consumers must adjust to tariffs as a structural feature of the U.S. economy rather than a short-term negotiating tactic.
Legal challenges to the administration’s authority to impose sweeping tariffs could introduce volatility, but most experts believe these efforts will not materially change the outcome. Even if courts restrict certain tariff powers, alternative statutory tools remain available to maintain similar rate levels. For markets, this means that any legal disruption is likely to be brief and tactical, not transformational.
Political incentives further reinforce the durability of current tariff policy. Trade protection has become a cornerstone of the administration’s broader economic agenda, tied to reshoring manufacturing, strengthening supply chains, and generating government revenue. Tariff collections in 2025 have already reached historically high levels, strengthening the case for maintaining the policy despite concerns over rising costs.
For small-cap companies, the persistence of elevated tariffs presents a mixed picture. On one hand, firms that rely heavily on imported inputs face margin pressure as higher costs work their way through supply chains. Many companies were able to temporarily cushion the impact by building inventory ahead of tariff increases, but those buffers are now thinning. As restocking occurs at higher tariff rates, pricing decisions will become more difficult—particularly for smaller businesses with limited pricing power.
On the other hand, small-cap stocks with domestic production, localized supply chains, or exposure to U.S. manufacturing could benefit from a more protected competitive landscape. Tariffs may reduce foreign competition in certain sectors, allowing domestic players to capture market share or stabilize pricing. For investors focused on small caps, this dynamic makes sector selection increasingly important.
Looking ahead, 2026 is shaping up to be the year when the economic consequences of tariffs become more visible. While some easing could occur around politically sensitive consumer goods, analysts do not expect a meaningful decline in overall rates. Instead, the emphasis is likely to shift toward managing the downstream effects on inflation, corporate earnings, and consumer spending.
For small-cap investors, clarity may be the most valuable takeaway. With tariff policy appearing set for the foreseeable future, markets can move past speculation and focus on fundamentals. Companies that adapt efficiently—by reshoring production, renegotiating supplier contracts, or passing through costs strategically—may emerge stronger. In a higher-tariff world, resilience and adaptability could become defining traits of the next generation of small-cap winners.
The U.S. housing market showed renewed signs of life in November as pending home sales posted their strongest monthly increase in nearly two years. New data from the National Association of Realtors reveals that contract signings rose 3.3% compared with October, far exceeding expectations and signaling that buyer activity may be stabilizing after a prolonged slowdown.
Pending home sales are considered a leading indicator for the housing market because homes typically go under contract one to two months before a sale is finalized. The November increase pushed the Pending Home Sales Index up to 79.2, a notable improvement even though the reading remains below the long-term benchmark of 100, which reflects average activity levels in 2001. Compared with November of last year, pending sales increased 2.6%, suggesting demand is gradually recovering.
One of the most important drivers behind the uptick in housing activity has been improving affordability. Mortgage rates have eased from their recent highs, providing relief to buyers who had been priced out of the market. The average rate on a 30-year fixed mortgage has hovered near 6.2% in recent months, down from approximately 7% earlier in 2025 and well below levels seen during the summer. Even modest declines in interest rates can significantly reduce monthly mortgage payments, encouraging more buyers to re-enter the market.
Slower home price growth has also contributed to rising buyer confidence. After years of rapid appreciation, price gains have moderated across much of the country, helping incomes catch up with housing costs. At the same time, wage growth has remained relatively strong, further supporting affordability and boosting purchasing power.
Regionally, pending home sales rose across all parts of the United States in November. The West recorded the largest month-over-month increase at 9.2%, reflecting strong pent-up demand in markets that were previously among the most constrained by affordability challenges. Gains in the Midwest, South, and Northeast suggest the recovery is becoming more evenly distributed rather than concentrated in isolated markets.
Inventory levels, while still tight by historical standards, have improved compared with last year. More homes available for sale have given buyers greater flexibility and reduced competitive pressures that previously discouraged many from making offers. This gradual improvement in supply has helped support the rise in contract activity without reigniting runaway price growth.
Despite the positive momentum, the housing market remains in a fragile recovery phase. Overall home sales in 2025 are still expected to rank near three-decade lows, underscoring how deeply elevated interest rates disrupted activity over the past several years. Many homeowners remain reluctant to sell because doing so would mean giving up ultra-low mortgage rates secured before 2022.
Looking ahead, housing market forecasts suggest a slow and uneven normalization rather than a sharp rebound. Continued declines in mortgage rates, steady wage growth, and incremental improvements in inventory will be critical to sustaining buyer demand. November’s surge in pending home sales does not mark a full recovery, but it does indicate that homebuyer momentum is building and that the long housing slowdown may be starting to ease.
This combination of improving affordability, stabilizing prices, and renewed buyer interest positions the housing market for a potentially stronger 2026 if current trends continue.
Nvidia is making its boldest strategic move yet in the artificial intelligence boom, agreeing to acquire key assets from AI chip startup Groq for roughly $20 billion in cash. The transaction, Nvidia’s largest deal on record, underscores how fiercely competitive the race to dominate AI infrastructure has become—and how much capital market leaders are willing to deploy to stay ahead.
Founded in 2016 by former Google engineers, including TPU co-creator Jonathan Ross, Groq has carved out a reputation for designing ultra-low-latency AI accelerator chips optimized for inference workloads. These are the chips that power real-time AI responses, an area of exploding demand as large language models move from experimentation into production across enterprises. While Groq was most recently valued at $6.9 billion in a September funding round, Nvidia’s willingness to pay nearly three times that figure for its assets highlights the strategic value of the technology rather than the startup’s current financials.
Structurally, the deal is notable. Nvidia is not acquiring Groq outright but instead purchasing its assets and entering into a non-exclusive licensing agreement for Groq’s inference technology. Groq will technically remain an independent company, with its cloud business continuing separately, while Ross and other senior leaders join Nvidia. This mirrors a growing trend among Big Tech firms: acquiring talent and intellectual property without the regulatory complexity of a full corporate takeover.
For Nvidia, the rationale is clear. CEO Jensen Huang has said the assets will be integrated into Nvidia’s AI factory architecture, expanding its platform to serve a broader range of inference and real-time workloads. As AI adoption matures, inference—not training—may become the dominant cost driver, and Groq’s low-latency processors directly address that bottleneck. The move also neutralizes a potential competitor founded by engineers who helped build one of Nvidia’s main alternatives: Google’s TPU.
From an investment perspective, the deal reinforces Nvidia’s commanding position in the AI ecosystem. The company ended October with more than $60 billion in cash and short-term investments, giving it unmatched flexibility to shape the market through acquisitions, licensing deals, and strategic investments. In recent months alone, Nvidia has struck similar agreements with Enfabrica, expanded its stake in CoreWeave, announced intentions to invest heavily in OpenAI, and even partnered with Intel. The Groq transaction fits neatly into this pattern of ecosystem consolidation.
Broader market sentiment also plays a role. Investors have rewarded Nvidia’s aggressive strategy, viewing it as a signal that AI spending is far from peaking. Rather than slowing, capital is concentrating around proven winners with scale, distribution, and cash. Smaller chip startups may still innovate, but exits increasingly appear to be strategic partnerships or asset sales rather than standalone IPOs—evidenced by Cerebras Systems shelving its public offering plans.
Ultimately, Nvidia’s Groq deal is less about one startup and more about the trajectory of the AI economy. It reflects a market where speed, efficiency, and control over the full AI stack are paramount. For investors, the message is clear: AI is entering a consolidation phase, and Nvidia intends not just to participate, but to dictate its direction.
Great Lakes Dredge & Dock Corporation is the largest provider of dredging services in the United States. In addition, Great Lakes is fully engaged in expanding its core business into the rapidly developing offshore wind energy industry. The Company has a long history of performing significant international projects. The Company employs experienced civil, ocean and mechanical engineering staff in its estimating, production and project management functions. In its over 131-year history, the Company has never failed to complete a marine project. Great Lakes owns and operates the largest and most diverse fleet in the U.S. dredging industry, comprised of approximately 200 specialized vessels. Great Lakes has a disciplined training program for engineers that ensures experienced-based performance as they advance through Company operations. The Company’s Incident-and Injury-Free® (IIF®) safety management program is integrated into all aspects of the Company’s culture. The Company’s commitment to the IIF® culture promotes a work environment where employee safety is paramount.
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.
Another Pause. The Trump Administration is pausing leases for five offshore wind projects, including the Sunrise Wind and Empire Wind 1 projects, both of which Great Lakes’ soon to be delivered Acadia vessel is contracted to provide subsea rock services. Described as due to national security risks identified by the Pentagon, the pause is currently not expected to exceed 90 days. If accurate, the pause should not have a significant impact on Great Lakes, in our opinion.
Details. The administration said the pause will give the Interior Department, which oversees offshore wind, time to work with the Department of War and other agencies to assess the possible ways to mitigate any security risks posed by the projects. In past research, the U.S. government has found that the movement of turbine blades and the highly reflective towers can create radar interference called “clutter.” The clutter caused by offshore wind projects obscures legitimate moving targets and generates false targets in the vicinity of wind projects. However, these risks were already considered in the permitting process.
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.
MILAN & FLORHAM PARK, N.J. — Conduent Transportation, a global provider of smart mobility technology solutions and business unit of Conduent Incorporated (Nasdaq: CNDT), today announced the launch of Italy’s first integrated transit EMV (Europay, Mastercard, and Visa) contactless payment system, developed in partnership with transit operators Brescia Mobilità and Arriva Italia. Conduent previously collaborated with both operators to implement their individual EMV systems, and this new integration marks a significant step forward in digitalizing ticketing systems.
The integrated system allows passengers traveling on Brescia Mobilità’s urban network and Arriva Italia’s extra-urban network to purchase a single ticket that is valid across both systems using contactless debit or credit cards, as well as NFC enabled digital wallets. The solution automatically calculates the correct fare based on the journey taken. In addition, the system enables a multi-passenger ticket, allowing one traveler to purchase multiple fares in a single transaction with the same card.
This represents the first EMV system integration between two public transport operators in Italy, and it serves as a pioneering example of a multi-operator EMV platform functioning as a shared service hub across public transport companies.
To support this innovation, Conduent enhanced its EMV solution with two new modules.
A Tokenizer protects sensitive data by generating a unique identifier, or token, for each card used.
An Orchestrator manages the end-to-end payment process, ensuring transactions are secure and efficient, including the reconciliation of payments.
“We are proud to have been the first in Lombardy to introduce EMV contactless payment technology,” said Marco Medeghini, General Manager at Brescia Mobilità Group. “By working with Conduent and Arriva Italia, we have taken a major step toward digitalizing public transportation and advancing our shared vision of a modern, sustainable system.”
“This collaboration represents a decisive step forward for public transport in the city of Brescia and its province – a first-of-its kind integrated payment system connecting two major operators,” said Angelo Costa, Managing Director of Arriva Italia. “Building off the success of EMV technology, we invested in this joint solution to offer an innovative and easy-to-use service to our passengers.”
“Brescia Mobilità and Arriva Italia recognize that adopting innovative technologies enhances the passenger experience. Conduent’s EMV solution laid the foundation for a scalable, multi-operator system that can be expanded to a wider geographical area,” said Jean-Charles Zaia, President, Transit Solutions at Conduent. “We are proud to support Brescia Mobilità and Arriva Italia with this first-of-its-kind implementation in Italy, made possible by Conduent’s innovation and our partners’ commitment to progress.”
Conduent fare collection systems are in use on more than 400 public transit networks of all sizes around the world. In addition to Brescia, Conduent has deployed contactless payment systems in more than 10 cities in Italy including Bergamo, Venice, and Verona.
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 53,000 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 $85 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.
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.
BioMarin Pharmaceutical Inc. (Nasdaq: BMRN) announced it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Amicus Therapeutics (Nasdaq: FOLD) in an all-cash transaction valued at approximately $4.8 billion. Under the terms of the deal, BioMarin will acquire Amicus for $14.50 per share, representing a significant premium to Amicus’ recent trading levels. The transaction is expected to close in the second quarter of 2026, subject to regulatory approvals and Amicus shareholder approval.
The acquisition significantly expands BioMarin’s presence in the rare disease market by adding two marketed, high-growth therapies to its commercial portfolio. Amicus brings Galafold® (migalastat), an oral therapy for Fabry disease, and Pombiliti® (cipaglucosidase alfa-atga) in combination with Opfolda® (miglustat), a next-generation treatment for Pompe disease. Together, these products generated $599 million in revenue over the past four quarters, immediately strengthening BioMarin’s top-line growth profile.
From a strategic standpoint, the transaction deepens BioMarin’s focus on lysosomal storage disorders, an area where the company already has established expertise and commercial infrastructure. The addition of Amicus’ therapies is expected to accelerate BioMarin’s long-term revenue growth rate through 2030 and beyond, while diversifying its enzyme therapies business unit. BioMarin also plans to leverage its global commercial footprint to expand access to Galafold and Pombiliti + Opfolda in additional international markets.
The deal carries favorable financial implications for BioMarin shareholders. Management expects the acquisition to be accretive to non-GAAP diluted earnings per share within the first 12 months following closing and substantially accretive beginning in 2027. BioMarin intends to finance the transaction using a combination of existing cash and approximately $3.7 billion in new debt financing, with no equity issuance required. The company has stated that it remains committed to deleveraging, targeting gross leverage below 2.5x within two years after closing.
Importantly, a key overhang related to Galafold’s U.S. intellectual property has been resolved ahead of the acquisition. Amicus has settled ongoing patent litigation with generic challengers, securing U.S. exclusivity for Galafold until January 2037, barring limited customary exceptions. This resolution enhances revenue visibility and strengthens the long-term value of the Fabry franchise within BioMarin’s portfolio.
Beyond marketed products, Amicus also contributes pipeline optionality. The company holds U.S. rights to DMX-200, a Phase 3 investigational therapy for focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS), a rare and often fatal kidney disease. While not central to the acquisition thesis, the asset provides additional upside potential.
Overall, the acquisition underscores BioMarin’s capital allocation strategy of deploying its strong balance sheet to acquire de-risked, revenue-generating assets that align with its core rare disease focus. With immediate revenue contribution, improved earnings power, and expanded global reach, the Amicus transaction positions BioMarin to strengthen its leadership in rare diseases while delivering long-term shareholder value.
Mark Reichman, Managing Director, Equity Research Analyst, Natural Resources, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.
Hans Baldau, Associate Analyst, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.
Refer to the full report for the price target, fundamental analysis, and rating.
Initiating coverage with an Outperform rating. We are initiating coverage of Summit Midstream Corporation with an Outperform rating and a price target of $47 per share. Summit is a diversified midstream operator headquartered in Houston, Texas, focused on developing, owning, and operating strategically located natural gas, crude oil, and produced water infrastructure across several key U.S. unconventional resource basins.
Strategically positioned. Summit owns and operates midstream infrastructure in major U.S. unconventional resource basins, including: 1) the Williston Basin in North Dakota, 2) the Denver-Julesburg (DJ) Basin in Colorado and Wyoming, 3) the Fort Worth Basin in Texas, 4) the Piceance Basin in Colorado, and 5) the Arkoma Basin in Oklahoma. The company also holds a 70% majority interest in and operates the Double E Pipeline, a natural gas transmission system connecting the Delaware Basin to the Waha Hub in Texas. The diversified footprint provides Summit with exposure to multiple producing regions.
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 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.
U.S. inflation is expected to remain above the Federal Reserve’s 2% target in November, reinforcing the central bank’s cautious stance as the economic data calendar finally returns to normal following this year’s prolonged government shutdown. The upcoming Consumer Price Index (CPI) report, scheduled for release Thursday morning, will be the final major inflation update published on a disrupted schedule, marking a key moment for markets assessing the trajectory of monetary policy into 2026.
Consensus estimates suggest headline CPI rose 3.1% year over year in November, while core inflation—which excludes food and energy—is also expected to come in at 3.1%. That would represent a modest increase from the 3.0% readings recorded in September, the most recent inflation data available after October’s report was canceled during the shutdown. With no October data to provide a month-to-month comparison, investors will be forced to rely on broader trend signals rather than short-term momentum.
Despite inflation remaining elevated, economists generally view current price pressures as part of a gradual cooling process rather than a renewed acceleration. Demand across the economy has shown signs of moderation, particularly as higher borrowing costs continue to weigh on discretionary spending and business investment. However, progress toward the Fed’s target remains uneven, and several factors continue to complicate the inflation outlook.
One key source of persistence is goods inflation, which analysts say remains sticky due to tariffs and supply chain adjustments. While global logistics have improved compared to prior years, trade policy and cost pressures continue to filter through consumer prices. At the same time, services inflation—long viewed as a more stubborn component—has shown tentative signs of easing, helped in part by softer health insurance costs and slower wage growth in some sectors.
Recent labor market data adds another layer of complexity. The November jobs report, released earlier this week, showed stronger-than-expected job creation alongside an unemployment rate that rose to a four-year high. This combination suggests a labor market that is cooling, but not collapsing—an outcome that supports the Fed’s view that inflation can ease without triggering a sharp economic downturn.
As a result, markets increasingly expect the Federal Reserve to remain on hold at its January meeting. Futures pricing currently implies a relatively low probability of a rate cut in the near term, as policymakers wait for clearer evidence that inflation is moving sustainably toward target. The Fed’s most recent projections point to only one additional rate cut in 2026, following a series of quarter-point reductions late in 2025.
For investors, the message is one of patience rather than panic. Inflation remains above target, but the direction of travel appears constructive. As economic data resumes its regular cadence in the months ahead, policymakers and markets alike will gain a clearer picture of whether pricing pressures are continuing to fade or becoming entrenched once again. Until then, the Fed is likely to err on the side of caution, prioritizing long-term stability over short-term market expectations.
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.
Strategic Committee. On Friday, NN announced the Board of Directors has formed a Strategic Committee to oversee a review of strategic and financial alternatives to further enhance shareholder value. Given the success to date of management’s transformation plan, the Board feels now is the time to take a fresh comprehensive look at additional ways to unlock value for shareholders.
Committee Details. The Strategic Committee is comprised of three independent directors, Raynard Benvenuti, Jeri Harman, and Thomas Wilson. All have been tasked with evaluating a broad spectrum of strategic, financial and business configuration options for the Company. The Board has engaged Houlihan Lokey, as the Company’s financial advisor.
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This Company Sponsored Research is provided by Noble Capital Markets, Inc., a FINRA and S.E.C. registered broker-dealer (B/D).
*Analyst certification and important disclosures included in the full report. NOTE: investment decisions should not be based upon the content of this research summary. Proper due diligence is required before making any investment decision.
The U.S. cannabis sector is heading into a potentially transformative moment as reports surface that President Donald Trump is preparing to push for a reclassification of marijuana from a Schedule I drug to Schedule III. While no final decision has been made, the conversations happening between top administration officials and industry leaders signal a serious shift in federal posture—one that could reshape the economics, legal landscape, and competitive structure of the cannabis industry. For small-cap companies operating in or around this space, the impact could be particularly significant.
Cannabis has long been stuck at the federal level in a category reserved for substances with no accepted medical use, a classification that has held back the industry for decades. Reclassifying it to Schedule III would not legalize cannabis federally, but it would meaningfully reduce the restrictions companies face. The most immediate change would be relief from Section 280E of the tax code, which currently prevents cannabis operators from deducting ordinary business expenses. Larger players with substantial revenues would feel this impact first—but small-cap companies stand to benefit disproportionately because the tax burden has historically crushed their margins and limited their ability to reinvest.
A shift to Schedule III could also open the door to greater access to banking services, institutional capital, insurance products, and credit facilities. These are areas where small-cap operators—cultivators, distributors, multi-state operators, ancillary service providers, and biotech firms researching cannabinoids—have been at a disadvantage compared with more capitalized competitors. If traditional lenders and investors begin viewing cannabis as a legitimate medical or commercial sector rather than a high-risk legal minefield, the funding gap could narrow. That alone could reshape the competitive landscape, giving innovative but undercapitalized players a fighting chance to scale.
Public small-cap cannabis stocks are already reacting. Shares across the sector surged following the news, reflecting expectations that regulatory reform would unlock new revenue opportunities and ease long-standing financial pressures. But beyond the rally, the structural implications matter more. With reclassification, companies may finally be able to reduce compliance costs, expand into new states, and invest more aggressively in product development. Small-cap players focused on medical cannabis, CBD therapeutics, agricultural technology, and retail operations could all find themselves in a stronger position.
Of course, the path forward is not guaranteed. The reclassification process requires regulatory rulemaking and could face legal challenges, political resistance, and bureaucratic delays. The mixed landscape of state laws adds another layer of complexity that will not immediately disappear. And federal rescheduling alone does not address interstate commerce restrictions or full legalization—two changes that would unlock the broadest economic benefits.
Still, even a modest shift at the federal level can materially change market dynamics. The cannabis industry has operated for years under a patchwork of conflicting rules that increase costs and protect incumbents. Any move that reduces uncertainty—even if incremental—creates an environment where smaller, nimble companies can innovate, expand, and compete more effectively.
For small-cap investors, this moment is worth watching closely. Policy changes of this scale tend to create inefficiencies and valuation gaps, especially in sectors where regulation has held back growth. While volatility is likely as the political process unfolds, the prospect of lower taxes, reduced compliance friction, and increased access to capital could mark the beginning of a new cycle for cannabis-related equities.
The Federal Reserve’s December policy meeting delivered a third consecutive quarter-point rate cut, bringing the federal funds rate down to a 3.5%–3.75% range. But the decision was far from unanimous. In fact, the meeting produced the highest number of dissents in more than six years, with Chicago Fed President Austan Goolsbee, Kansas City Fed President Jeff Schmid, and Fed Governor Stephen Miran all breaking from the majority. Their reasons shed light on why the central bank remains cautious—and why some policymakers believe the Fed should have waited before easing further.
At the core of the dissent is a simple theme: uncertainty. Goolsbee and Schmid both argued that the Fed lacks enough recent data to justify another cut. With government reporting disrupted and key inflation releases delayed, the policymakers said they were uncomfortable lowering rates again without a clearer picture of how prices and demand are evolving. Goolsbee stressed that waiting until early 2026 for updated data would not have introduced meaningful economic risk, but it would have allowed the Fed to make a more informed call. In his view, patience was the more prudent option.
Both Goolsbee and Schmid pointed to inflation as the most compelling reason to pause. After moving sharply lower in 2023, progress on inflation has stalled for several months. Businesses across multiple sectors continue to cite rising input costs, and consumer surveys show persistent unease about prices. Schmid went further, warning that inflation is still “too hot” and that the economy’s ongoing momentum suggests current policy may not be restrictive enough. He raised the concern that households and firms could begin incorporating inflation into their everyday decision-making—a trend that historically makes inflation harder to bring down.
Goolsbee acknowledged that some price pressures appear tied to tariffs and may prove temporary, but he also highlighted risks that inflation in services could remain sticky. With the labor market cooling gradually rather than sharply, he argued there is no urgent economic threat that requires cutting rates before more evidence arrives. Hiring and firing activity has slowed into what he described as a “low hiring/low firing” environment—typical of businesses navigating uncertainty rather than signaling any dramatic downturn.
Fed Governor Stephen Miran dissented for a different reason, preferring a larger 0.50% cut. His stance reflects the broader tension within the central bank: some officials fear easing too slowly risks stalling momentum, while others worry easing too quickly risks reigniting inflation. The result is a policy landscape where the Fed is attempting to balance growth risks against inflation risks in real time, with incomplete information.
Still, the majority of the committee moved forward with the cut, signaling confidence that inflation will eventually resume its downward trend. But the dissents highlight that key voices inside the central bank are urging caution. For investors, the takeaway is straightforward: the Fed is not unanimously convinced that the inflation battle is over, and future rate moves may be more contested than markets expect.
