Townsquare Media (TSQ) – Showing The Rest How Its Done


Friday, May 09, 2025

Townsquare is a community-focused digital media and digital marketing solutions company with market leading local radio stations, principally focused outside the top 50 markets in the U.S. Our assets include a subscription digital marketing services business, Townsquare Interactive, providing website design, creation and hosting, search engine optimization, social media and online reputation management as well as other digital monthly services for approximately 26,800 SMBs; a robust digital advertising division, Townsquare IGNITE, a powerful combination of a) an owned and operated portfolio of more than 330 local news and entertainment websites and mobile apps along with a network of leading national music and entertainment brands, collecting valuable first party data, and b) a proprietary digital programmatic advertising technology stack with an in-house demand and data management platform; and a portfolio of 321 local terrestrial radio stations in 67 U.S. markets strategically situated outside the Top 50 markets in the United States. Our portfolio includes local media brands such as WYRK.com, WJON.com, and NJ101.5.com and premier national music brands such as XXLmag.com, TasteofCountry.com, UltimateClassicRock.com and Loudwire.com.

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

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

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

Solid first quarter results. Total company revenues were down a modest 1% to $98.7 million, in line with our $98.5 million estimate. Digital revenues increased 6.4%, nearly completely offsetting the weakness in legacy broadcast. Notably, Digital revenue in the quarter represented 57% of total revenue, but, more importantly, 62% of total company adj. EBITDA. Q1 adj. EBITDA of $18.1 million was better than our $17.0 million estimate.

Ignite continues to be on fire. Ignite, the company’s programmatic/advertising solutions business, increased revenues an attractive 7.6% in the quarter. Management indicated that the growth of Ignite will be enhanced by its white label initiative, which is expected to account for $10 million in revenue in 2025 and is expected to grow to $50 million in the next 3 to 5 years and with a 20% operating margin. 


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

Saga Communications (SGA) – Unique Digital Strategy Gains Traction


Friday, May 09, 2025

Saga Communications, Inc. is a broadcast company whose business is primarily devoted to acquiring, developing and operating radio stations. Saga currently owns or operates broadcast properties in 27 markets, including 79 FM and 33 AM radio stations. Saga’s strategy is to operate top billing radio stations in mid sized markets, defined as markets ranked (by market revenues) from 20 to 200. Saga’s radio stations employ a myriad of programming formats, including Active Rock, Adult Album Alternative, Adult Contemporary, Country, Classic Country, Classic Hits, Classic Rock, Contemporary Hits Radio, News/Talk, Oldies and Urban Contemporary. In operating its stations, Saga concentrates on the development of strong decentralized local management, which is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the stations in their market area and is compensated based on their financial performance as well as other performance factors that are deemed to effect the long-term ability of the stations to achieve financial objectives. Saga began operations in 1986 and became a publicly traded company in December 1992. The stock trades on NASDAQ under the ticker symbol “SGA”.

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

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

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

Q1 Results.  The company reported Q1 revenue of $24.2 million and an adj. EBITDA loss of $0.5 million, both of which declined over the prior year period, but were modestly better than our estimates of $23.0 million and a loss of $1.1 million, respectively, as illustrated in Figure #1 Q1 Results. Notably, the company is focused on its blended digital growth strategy and improving profitability. We believe the company’s strategic actions are a step in the right direction for returning toward revenue and adj. EBITDA growth.

Digital growth strategy. The company’s blended growth strategy combines radio and digital advertising to provide a consistent message to customers on both mediums and to drive radio listeners to digital platforms. Notably, year to date, the company has generated digital revenue of $5.3 million, surpassing the company’s $5.0 million generated for full year 2024. 


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

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

News Research and Market Data on LUCK

05/08/2025

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

Quarter Highlights:

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

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

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

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

Share Repurchase and Capital Return Program Update

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

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

Guidance

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

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

Investor Webcast Information

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

About Lucky Strike Entertainment

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

Forward Looking Statements

Some of the statements contained in this press release are forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, that involve risk, assumptions and uncertainties, such as statements of our plans, objectives, expectations, intentions and forecasts. These forward-looking statements are generally identified by the use of forward-looking terminology, including the terms “anticipate,” “believe,” “confident,” “continue,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “likely,” “may,” “plan,” “possible,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “should,” “target,” “will,” “would” and, in each case, their negative or other various or comparable terminology. These forward-looking statements reflect our views with respect to future events as of the date of this release and are based on our management’s current expectations, estimates, forecasts, projections, assumptions, beliefs and information. Although management believes that the expectations reflected in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that these expectations will prove to have been correct. All such forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties, many of which are outside of our control, and could cause future events or results to be materially different from those stated or implied in this document. It is not possible to predict or identify all such risks. These risks include, but are not limited to: our ability to design and execute our business strategy; changes in consumer preferences and buying patterns; our ability to compete in our markets; the occurrence of unfavorable publicity; risks associated with long-term non-cancellable leases for our locations; our ability to retain key managers; risks associated with our substantial indebtedness and limitations on future sources of liquidity; our ability to carry out our expansion plans; our ability to successfully defend litigation brought against us; our ability to adequately obtain, maintain, protect and enforce our intellectual property and proprietary rights and claims of intellectual property and proprietary right infringement, misappropriation or other violation by competitors and third parties; failure to hire and retain qualified employees and personnel; the cost and availability of commodities and other products we need to operate our business; cybersecurity breaches, cyber-attacks and other interruptions to our and our third-party service providers’ technological and physical infrastructures; catastrophic events, including war, terrorism and other conflicts; public health emergencies and pandemics, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, or natural catastrophes and accidents; changes in the regulatory atmosphere and related private sector initiatives; fluctuations in our operating results; economic conditions, including the impact of increasing interest rates, inflation and recession; and other factors described under the section titled “Risk Factors” in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) by the Company on September 5, 2024, as well as other filings that the Company will make, or has made, with the SEC, such as Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and Current Reports on Form 8-K. These factors should not be construed as exhaustive and should be read in conjunction with the other cautionary statements that are included in this press release and in other filings. We expressly disclaim any obligation to publicly update or review any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as required by applicable law.

Non-GAAP Financial Measures

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

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

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

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

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

View full release here.

Lucky Strike Entertainment Corporation Investor Relations
IR@LSEnt.com

Source: Lucky Strike Entertainment Corporation

Snail, Inc. (SNAL) – Strategic Initiatives Gain Traction


Wednesday, May 07, 2025

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

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

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

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

Favorable content updates. The company recently announced favorable developments that highlight the execution of its strategic initiatives to diversify revenue and drive player engagement. Notably, in April, the company released two new titles under its independent publishing label, Wandering Wizard, and provided new content in Ark: Survival Ascended (ASA) and Bellwright.

Driving player engagement. In April, the company released Eggcellent Adventure on ASA, an Easter themed seasonal event, and launched the Extinction map on Ark: Ultimate Mobile Edition. As a reminder, ARK: Ultimate Mobile Edition was released in December and gained over 2 million users during the month. In our view, the new content releases are illustrative of its strategic initiatives to enhance player engagement.


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

Direct Digital Holdings (DRCT) – Tackling Its Challenges


Wednesday, May 07, 2025

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

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

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

Mixed Q1 results. The company reported Q1 revenue of $8.2 million, below our estimate of $10.5 million, and adj. EBITDA loss of $3.0 million, which was in line with our estimate of a loss of $3.1 million. Notably, the variance in revenue was attributed to softness in the company’s sell-side business, which is still recovering from the defamatory article that was released in 2024. Sell-side revenue trends improved from Q4 when taking into account the seasonality strong quarter and influx of $700,000 in Political advertising. 

Segment results. The company reported Q1 Buy-side revenue of $6.1 million, an increase of 6.1% over the prior year period and in line with our estimate of $6.5 million. While Sell-side revenue of $2.0 million was lower than our $4.0 million estimate, the segment should improve volume in the second half of the year, which should provide a meaningful step up in revenue. 


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

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. 

Cumulus Media (CMLS) – Skating On Thin Ice


Friday, May 02, 2025

Cumulus Media (NASDAQ: CMLS) is an audio-first media company delivering premium content to over a quarter billion people every month — wherever and whenever they want it. Cumulus Media engages listeners with high-quality local programming through 406 owned-and-operated radio stations across 86 markets; delivers nationally-syndicated sports, news, talk, and entertainment programming from iconic brands including the NFL, the NCAA, the Masters, CNN, the AP, the Academy of Country Music Awards, and many other world-class partners across more than 9,500 affiliated stations through Westwood One, the largest audio network in America; and inspires listeners through the Cumulus Podcast Network, its rapidly growing network of original podcasts that are smart, entertaining and thought-provoking. Cumulus Media provides advertisers with personal connections, local impact and national reach through broadcast and on-demand digital, mobile, social, and voice-activated platforms, as well as integrated digital marketing services, powerful influencers, full-service audio solutions, industry-leading research and insights, and live event experiences. Cumulus Media is the only audio media company to provide marketers with local and national advertising performance guarantees. For more information visit www.cumulusmedia.com.

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

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

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

Q1 revenue weaker than expected. Total company revenues declined 6.4% to $187.3 million, weaker than our 4.8% decline and $190.4 million estimates, respectively. Due to previous cost reductions, the company achieved our adj. EBITDA estimate, $3.5 million versus our estimate of $3.4 million. 

Digital Marketing Services (DMS) revenue surges. DMS revenues, which account for roughly 30% of the digital segment, increased a strong 30%. Management indicated that DMS Q2 revenue pacings have accelerated to 35% growth. Notably, the digital segment accounted for 20% of total company revenues. 


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

Travelzoo (TZOO) – Off To A Solid Start


Wednesday, April 30, 2025

Travelzoo® provides its 30 million members with exclusive offers and one-of-a-kind experiences personally reviewed by our deal experts around the globe. We have our finger on the pulse of outstanding travel, entertainment, and lifestyle experiences. We work in partnership with more than 5,000 top travel suppliers—our long-standing relationships give Travelzoo members access to irresistible deals.

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

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

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

Reports solid Q1 results. Q1 revenues accelerated, up 5.3%, from the 2.2% decline in the fourth quarter, reflecting the early adoption of the company’s transformative migration toward a subscription model. Results were in line with expectations, with adj. EBITDA of $4.4 million and positive free cash flow generation of $3.3 million. 

Revenues expected to accelerate. Management indicated that second quarter revenue growth is expected to accelerate, double the rate of the first quarter’s 5.3%. The enhanced revenue growth reflects the success of converting legacy subscribers to a paid subscription. The paid subscription began in the first quarter of 2025, with subscription revenues recognized pro-ratably over the subscription period. As such, we expect that revenue growth will accelerate as it adds subscriptions throughout the year. 


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

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. 

Release – Direct Digital Holdings to Report First Quarter 2025 Financial Results

Research News and Market Data on Direct Digital

April 29, 2025 8:30 am EDT

HOUSTON, April 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Direct Digital Holdings, Inc. (Nasdaq: DRCT) (“Direct Digital Holdings” or the “Company”), a leading advertising and marketing technology platform operating through its companies Colossus Media, LLC (“Colossus SSP”) and Orange 142, LLC (“Orange 142”), today announced that the Company will report financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2025 on Tuesday, May 6, 2025 after the U.S. stock market closes.

Management will host a conference call and webcast on the same day at 5:00 PM ET to discuss the results. The live webcast and replay can be accessed at https://ir.directdigitalholdings.com/.

About Direct Digital Holdings
Direct Digital Holdings (Nasdaq: DRCT) combines cutting-edge sell-side and buy-side advertising solutions, providing data-driven digital media strategies that enhance reach and performance for brands, agencies, and publishers of all sizes. Our sell-side platform, Colossus SSP, offers curated access to premium, growth-oriented media properties throughout the digital ecosystem. On the buy-side, Orange 142 delivers customized, audience-focused digital marketing and advertising solutions that enable mid-market and enterprise companies to achieve measurable results across a range of platforms, including programmatic, search, social, CTV, and influencer marketing. With extensive expertise in high-growth sectors such as Energy, Healthcare, Travel & Tourism, and Financial Services, our teams deliver performance strategies that connect brands with their ideal audiences.

At Direct Digital Holdings, we prioritize personal relationships by humanizing technology, ensuring each client receives dedicated support and tailored digital marketing solutions regardless of company size. This empowers everyone to thrive by generating billions of monthly impressions across display, CTV, in-app, and emerging media channels through advanced targeting, comprehensive data insights, and cross-platform activation. DDH is “Digital advertising built for everyone.”

Contacts:

Investors:
IMS Investor Relations
Walter Frank/Jennifer Belodeau
(203) 972-9200
investors@directdigitalholdings.com

Cumulus Media (CMLS) – Not Good Foreshadowing


Thursday, April 24, 2025

Cumulus Media (NASDAQ: CMLS) is an audio-first media company delivering premium content to over a quarter billion people every month — wherever and whenever they want it. Cumulus Media engages listeners with high-quality local programming through 406 owned-and-operated radio stations across 86 markets; delivers nationally-syndicated sports, news, talk, and entertainment programming from iconic brands including the NFL, the NCAA, the Masters, CNN, the AP, the Academy of Country Music Awards, and many other world-class partners across more than 9,500 affiliated stations through Westwood One, the largest audio network in America; and inspires listeners through the Cumulus Podcast Network, its rapidly growing network of original podcasts that are smart, entertaining and thought-provoking. Cumulus Media provides advertisers with personal connections, local impact and national reach through broadcast and on-demand digital, mobile, social, and voice-activated platforms, as well as integrated digital marketing services, powerful influencers, full-service audio solutions, industry-leading research and insights, and live event experiences. Cumulus Media is the only audio media company to provide marketers with local and national advertising performance guarantees. For more information visit www.cumulusmedia.com.

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

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

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

Plans to delist. The company announced plans to move its stock from the Nasdaq to the OTC market effective May 2nd. Cumulus received a delisting warning a month earlier from Nasdaq for not meeting a $10 million minimum stockholders’ equity requirement. The company determined that will not appeal given the time, effort and cost of to remain on Nasdaq.

Ticker remains CMLS. The company has applied and qualified to list on the OTC Markets’ OTCQB market tier and expects that its shares will trade at the open on May 2 under its current trading symbol CMLS. The company indicated that it plans to continue to file periodic and other required reports with the SEC. 


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

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. 

Release – Snail, Inc.’s Independent Label Wandering Wizards Acquires Publishing Rights to Whispers of West Grove

Research News and Market Data on SNAL

April 23, 2025 at 8:00 AM EDT

PDF Version

Ongoing Strategic Expansion of the Company’s Indie Horror Game Portfolio

CULVER CITY, Calif., April 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Snail, Inc. (Nasdaq: SNAL) (“Snail Games” or the “Company”), a leading global independent developer and publisher of interactive digital entertainment, officially announced that its independent indie publishing arm, Wandering Wizard, has acquired the publishing rights to Whispers of West Grove, an upcoming psychological horror game developed by NVNT Studios. Set to release on Steam, the title expands Wandering Wizard’s growing portfolio of indie horror content while further diversifying the Company’s revenue streams.

This strategic acquisition reflects the Company’s continued commitment to high-growth genres of the gaming market beyond its flagship ARK sandbox survival content. The Company believes the psychological horror genre in particular, has demonstrated remarkable resilience and consumer engagement. According to industry analysts1, the immersive horror games market is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of over 13% from 2024 to 2030, driven by the increasing popularity of narrative-driven and emotionally immersive gameplay experiences. The Company believes this acquisition adds momentum to Snail’s publishing strategy, which has seen significant growth over the past year through its indie division, Wandering Wizard’s expanding slate.

Whispers of West Grove invites players into the decaying corridors of West Grove Asylum, where they must navigate fear, fight monstrosities, and piece together a shattered psyche. Blending environmental storytelling with survival horror, the game centers on a patient’s desperate attempt to escape the sinister grasp of Dr. Kade, encountering disturbing visions, mind-bending puzzles, and a revolutionary gameplay mechanic that allows players to reshape the world around them.

Key gameplay features include:

  • Visceral combat that challenges players to hone survival instincts
  • Innovative puzzle design that integrates deeply with narrative pacing
  • Atmospheric environments packed with hidden items and lore
  • A reality-bending mechanic that transforms the game world at will
  • An original, dynamic score that shifts between haunting ambiance and intense dread

More details on launch timing for Whispers of West Grove will be shared in the months ahead.

Wishlist Whispers of West Grove on Steam https://store.steampowered.com/app/2228840/Whispers_of_West_Grove/

Whispers of West Grove Press Kit

For Creators interested in collaborative opportunities reach out to creatordirect@noiz.gg

For media inquiries, interview requests, or additional details, please contact: press@snailgamesusa.com

1Source: https://www.statsndata.org/report/infor-crm-consulting-service-market-352010

About Snail, Inc.
Snail, Inc. (Nasdaq: SNAL) is a leading, global independent developer and publisher of interactive digital entertainment for consumers around the world, with a premier portfolio of premium games designed for use on a variety of platforms, including consoles, PCs, and mobile devices. For more information, please visit: https://snail.com/.

Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains statements that constitute forward-looking statements. Many of the forward-looking statements contained in this press release can be identified by the use of forward-looking words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “could,” “expect,” “should,” “plan,” “intend,” “may,” “predict,” “continue,” “estimate” and “potential,” or the negative of these terms or other similar expressions. Forward-looking statements appear in a number of places in this press release and include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the strategic acquisition reflecting the Company’s  continued commitment to potential high-growth genres of the gaming market beyond its flagship ARK sandbox survival content, such as the psychological horror genre, and the notion that such acquisition adds momentum to Snail’s publishing strategy, which has seen significant growth over the past year through its indie division, Wandering Wizard’s expanding slate. You should carefully consider the risks and uncertainties described in the “Risk Factors” section of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024, which was filed by the Company with the SEC on March 26, 2025 and other documents filed by the Company from time to time with the SEC, including the Company’s Forms 10-Q filed with the SEC. The Company does not undertake or accept any obligation to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statements to reflect any change in its expectations or any change in events, conditions, or circumstances on which any such statement is based.

Investor Contact:
John Yi and Steven Shinmachi
Gateway Group, Inc.
949-574-3860
SNAL@gateway-grp.com

Direct Digital Holdings (DRCT) – Taking Measures To Remain Listed


Wednesday, April 23, 2025

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

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

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

Listing requirements not met. The company initially received a notification that it was not in compliance with the Nasdaq’s minimum stockholder equity requirement in October 2024. The company subsequently submitted a plan to regain compliance in February 2025 and was granted an extension until April 16, 2025. However, on April 16, the company had not regained compliance and received a letter of determination from Nasdaq on April 17. 

Letter of determination. The letter of determination stated the company did not meet the terms of its extension, due to a noncomplete capital raise that was laid out in its plan to regain compliance, and ultimately did not meet the stockholders’ equity requirement. We believe that the company is working on capital raising initiatives, which should put the company back in compliance. The Class A Common stock is scheduled to be suspended from trading at market open on April 28. The company has filed for a hearing which should delay the delisting process for at least 35 days.


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Release – Snail Games Subsidiary Interactive Films LLC Signs MOU with Mega Matrix Inc. (NYSE American: MPU) for Joint Short-Drama Development

Research News and Market Data on SNAL

April 21, 2025 at 8:00 AM EDT

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CULVER CITY, Calif., April 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Snail, Inc. (Nasdaq: SNAL) (“Snail Games” or the “Company”), a leading global independent developer and publisher of interactive digital entertainment, announced that its wholly owned subsidiary, Interactive Films LLC (“Interactive Films”), has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Mega Matrix Inc. (NYSE American: MPU). Under this MOU, both parties will leverage their respective strengths to establish a comprehensive collaboration framework for the joint development, production, and global distribution of short dramas, further enhancing their presence in the entertainment industry.

Mr. Hai Shi, Chairman and Co-CEO of Snail Games, commented, “Today’s announcement represents a strategic step forward in advancing Interactive Films’ short-drama business line and expanding our growing portfolio of original short dramas alongside MPU. According to WiseGuyReports1, the global mini program short drama market is expected to grow at a strong 20.81% CAGR to $25.68 billion by 2032. North America particularly is a key market for short-form content driven by the rapid adoption of streaming services and the growing presence of major industry players. This accelerated momentum and rising global appetite for short dramas presents a compelling opportunity for us to further diversify our content portfolio, deepen production capabilities, and capitalize on our unique strengths in artificial intelligence and immersive storytelling. With a shared vision, both parties look forward to leveraging its respective platforms and proprietary apps to deliver a slate of innovative short films to audiences worldwide.”

Mr. Yucheng Hu, CEO of MPU, also commented, “This partnership marks an important step for MPU as we expand our content portfolio and strengthen our presence in the global short-drama industry. Short dramas are seeing increasing popularity, with audience demand for binge-worthy, serialized content on the rise. With Snail Games’ expertise in artificial intelligence (AI) and immersive storytelling, combined with MPU’s established production and distribution capabilities, we believe this collaboration has the potential to deliver compelling content that resonates with global audiences.”

Under the MOU, Interactive Films and MPU will collaborate on the creative direction and script development of short dramas, jointly overseeing production progress and budgeting. The content will be distributed globally through both companies’ platforms. Leveraging its experienced in-house team and extensive expertise in short-drama production, MPU will oversee outsourced production and post-production of the short drama to ensure high-quality content. Additionally, Snail Games’ expertise in AI and interactive technologies, honed through game development, may be integrated into personalized recommendations and interactive storytelling, delivering a next-generation immersive viewing experience for audiences.

Over the next 12 months (unless the MOU is earlier terminated upon 60 days’ written notice to the other party), Interactive Films and MPU have committed to co-developing at least 10 short dramas. By utilizing their well-established international distribution channels in gaming and micro-drama markets, the Company believes these productions will quickly reach audiences across North America, Southeast Asia, and other global regions, further amplifying both companies’ influence in the global entertainment sector.

This strategic partnership marks a further expansion of Snail Games’ short drama business and represents a significant milestone in MPU’s expansion within the entertainment industry. Through this collaboration, both companies can combine their strengths in content creation and technology, while leveraging MPU’s global distribution network to accelerate the global rollout of the short dramas. This collaboration is expected to accelerate Interactive Films’ business and short film portfolios while providing audiences with a diverse selection of high-quality short dramas.

1https://www.wiseguyreports.com/reports/mini-program-short-drama-market

About Mega Matrix Inc. 
Mega Matrix Inc. (NYSE American: MPU) is a holding company and operates FlexTV, a short-video streaming platform and producer of short dramas, through its subsidiary, Yuder Pte, Ltd. Mega Matrix Inc. is a Cayman Island corporation headquartered in Singapore. For more information, please contact info@megamatrix.io or visit: http://www.megamatrix.io.

About Snail Games
Snail Games (Nasdaq: SNAL), is a leading, global independent developer and publisher of interactive digital entertainment for consumers around the world, with a premier portfolio of premium games designed for use on a variety of platforms, including consoles, PCs and mobile devices. For more information, please visit: https://snail.com/

Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains statements that constitute forward-looking statements. Many of the forward-looking statements contained in this press release can be identified by the use of forward-looking words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “could,” “expect,” “should,” “plan,” “intend,” “may,” “predict,” “continue,” “estimate” and “potential,” or the negative of these terms or other similar expressions. Forward-looking statements appear in a number of places in this press release and include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the respective strengths of Snail and MPU to establish a comprehensive collaboration framework for the joint development, production, and global distribution of short dramas; however, the MOU is not fully binding on either party and may be terminated upon 60 days’ written notice to the other party. You should carefully consider the risks and uncertainties described in the “Risk Factors” section of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024, which was filed by the Company with the SEC on March 26, 2025 and other documents filed by the Company from time to time with the SEC, including the Company’s Forms 10-Q filed with the SEC. The Company does not undertake or accept any obligation to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statements to reflect any change in its expectations or any change in events, conditions, or circumstances on which any such statement is based.

Contacts:

Investors:
John Yi and Steven Shinmachi
Gateway Group, Inc.
949-574-3860
SNAL@gateway-grp.com

Press:
press@snailgamesusa.com

Release – Saga Communications, Inc. Announces Date and Time of 1st Quarter Earnings Release and Conference Call

Research News and Market Data on SGA

April 14, 2025 16:05 ET 

GROSSE POINTE FARMS, Mich., April 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Saga Communications, Inc. (Nasdaq: SGA) announced today that it will release its 1st Quarter 2025 results at 9:00 a.m. EDT on Thursday, May 8, 2025. The company will be holding a conference call on the same date at 11:00 a.m. EDT. The dial-in numbers are as follows:

Domestic and International Dial-in Number: (973) 528-0008
Conference Entry Code: 530273

The Company requests that all parties that have a question that they would like to submit to the Company to please email the inquiry by 10:00 a.m. EDT on May 8, 2025, to SagaIR@sagacom.com. The Company will discuss, during the limited period of the conference call, those inquiries it deems of general relevance and interest. Only inquiries made in compliance with the foregoing will be discussed during the call.

Saga’s earnings release will contain certain non-GAAP financial measures including station operating income, trailing 12-month consolidated EBITDA, and same station financial information. A reconciliation of all non-GAAP financial measures to the most directly comparable GAAP measures will be provided in the earnings release.

Saga is a media company whose business is devoted to acquiring, developing, and operating broadcast properties with a focus on providing opportunities complimentary to our core radio business including digital, e-commerce, local on-line news services and non-traditional revenue initiatives.  Saga owns or operates broadcast properties in 28 markets, including 82 FM and 32 AM radio stations and 79 metro signals. For additional information, contact us at (313) 886-7070 or visit our website at www.sagacom.com.

Contact:
Samuel D. Bush
(313) 886-7070