Stockwinners Market Radar for May 29, 2019 - Earnings, Upgrades downgrades, option trades, Best Stock Advisory Service

19:23 EDT Eidos Therapeutics CEO acquires about 1.1M common shares - In a regulatory filing, Eidos Therapeutics CEO Neil Kumar disclosed the acquisition of about 1.1M common shares of the company at a price of $25.93 per share.

19:04 EDT Arrowhead's O'Brien sells 30,000 common shares - In a regulatory filing, Arrowhead Pharmaceuticals General Counsel Patrick O'Brien disclosed the sale of 30,000 common shares of the company at a price of $24.88 per share.

18:58 EDT Agco CEO: Optimistic a U.S.-China trade deal can be completed - In an interview on CNBC's Mad Money, Agco CEO Martin Richenhagen said: Our focus this year is on margin improvement... We want 8% margin this year and 10% next year... We are very much a global company... We have the finest products in the industry... The Chinese seek long term relationships, they tend to be loyal... The American farmer is doing a great job.

18:40 EDT Logitech CEO: All of our businesses are recession-resistant - In an interview on CNBC's Mad Money, Logitech CEO Bracken Darrell said: Gaming, video everywhere, and peripherals are long term drivers of our business... We are complimentary to Zoom's products... We are moving some manufacturing out of China... We will raise prices if we have to... We want to be the peripheral of choice for the virtual reality world.

18:17 EDT Front Yard Residential director Dobbs bought 10K shares of common stock - In a regulatory filing, Front Yard Residential disclosed that its director Rochelle Dobbs bought 10K shares of common stock on May 24th. The total transaction size was $116K.

17:34 EDT SPDR Gold Shares holdings rise to 740.86MT from 737.34MT - This is the highest level of holdings since May 2nd.

17:25 EDT Royal Dutch Shell awarded $197.91M Defense Logistics Agency contract for fuel - Shell has been awarded a $197.91M fixed-price with economic-price-adjustment contract for fuel. This was a competitive acquisition with 18 responses received. These are one-year contracts with a 30-day carry-over period. Work has a July 30, 2020, performance completion date. Using customer is Defense Logistics Agency Energy. Type of appropriation is FY19 defense working capital funds. The contracting activity is the Defense Logistics Agency Energy.

17:05 EDT Advanced Emissions announces additional refined coal facility closure - Advanced Emissions Solutions announced that Tinuum Group, a joint venture among the company's subsidiary ADA-ES, Inc., an affiliate of NexGen Resources Corporation, and an affiliate of The Goldman Sachs Group,, has completed a transaction for an additional Refined Coal facility. The RC facility is located at a coal-fired power plant that has historically burned in excess of 3.1M tons of coal per year and is royalty bearing to ADES. With this addition, Tinuum Group has 21 invested facilities in full-time operation. L. Heath Sampson, President and CEO of ADES, commented, "The momentum that began to build late last year in our RC segment has carried over into 2019. I am pleased Tinuum has secured a tax-equity investor for an additional facility, bringing the total number of operational units to 21 and making it the second contracted refined coal facility in 2019. The cadence of closures this year is consistent with our previously outlined expectations, and we continue to maintain visibility into an additional 5 to 6 million tons, in 2019, that have the potential to add to our future projected cash flows from this business. We have worked closely alongside Tinuum as they have diligently worked to educate prospective investors around the benefits and importance of refined coal in helping curtail harmful emissions, and we are pleased to see these efforts translate into shareholder value."

17:00 EDT electroCore Inc trading resumes

16:51 EDT Integrated Core Strategies reports 5.6% passive stake in BioCryst - In a regulatory filing, Integrated Core Strategies disclosed a 5.6% stake in BioCryst, which represents about 6.2M shares. The filing does not allow for activism.

16:46 EDT Loop Industries announces $35M capital infusion from Northern Private Capital - Loop Industries announced that Toronto-based Northern Private Capital has made a binding commitment to purchase 4.1M shares of Loop's common stock at a price of $8.55 per share, for total net proceeds of approximately $35M. After giving effect to the transaction, NPC will have a 10.5% ownership position in Loop's common equity. The transaction is expected to close in twelve business days, on or about June 14. In addition, Loop has granted NPC a 3-year option that will vest six months following the closing to acquire an additional 4.1M common shares at a price of $11 per share, which would result in further total net proceeds of approximately $45 million.

16:36 EDT PVH Corp. down 7% to $92.50 after cutting FY19 profit outlook - The company's Q2 profit guidance also missed estimates.

16:34 EDT Palo Alto Networks down 4% to $205.50 after Q4 profit guidance trails estimates

16:25 EDT electroCore Inc trading halted, news pending

16:20 EDT Connection Public Sector Solutions awarded DoD contract - Connection announced that Connection Public Sector Solutions is one of six major IT solution providers selected for a multiple-award, firm-fixed price blanket purchase agreement in accordance with a General Services Administration Federal Supply Schedule contract. The combined contracts have an estimated value of $3.17B and will provide commercially available Microsoft brand name perpetual software licenses and annual subscriptions for the Department of Defense, U.S. intelligence community, and U.S. Coast Guard. The ordering period will run through November 27, 2028. Robert Howard, President of Connection Public Sector Solutions, stated, "This agreement highlights Connection's contract expertise and extensive experience helping Federal customers navigate an increasingly complex Microsoft licensing landscape. We will continue to deliver the exceptional value, service, and trusted guidance that make Connection the go-to IT provider for those looking to transform their organizations and achieve greater performance, efficiency, and security."

16:19 EDT PVH reports Q1 Tommy Hilfiger revenue up 4% to $1.1B - Reports Q1 Calvin Klein revenue flat at $890M. Reports Q1 Heritage Brandns revenue up 1% to $415M.

16:18 EDT Palo Alto Networks reports deferred revenue grows 27% y/y to $2.6B

16:16 EDT Amalgamated Bank announces $25M stock buyback program - Amalgamated Bank announced that its board has authorized the repurchase of up to $25M of the company's Class A common stock. The company intends to fund the program with a combination of cash on hand and cash generated from operations.

16:10 EDT Keysight Technologies announces new $500M share repurchase program - Keysight announced that its board authorized a new share repurchase program for up to $500M of its common stock. The new repurchase program is effective immediately and replaces the previously authorized $350M program from 2018 of which $160M remained. Shares may be purchased from time to time, subject to general business and market conditions and other investment opportunities, through open market purchases, privately negotiated transactions or other means. The repurchase authorization may be commenced, suspended or discontinued at any time at the company's discretion.

16:05 EDT Audentes Therapeutics announces changes to senior management team - Audentes Therapeutics has appointed Edward Conner as Senior VP and Chief Medical Officer and promoted Fulvio Mavilio to Senior VP of Translational Science. Suyash Prasad, Senior VP and Chief Medical Officer and John Gray, Senior VP and Chief Technology Officer are leaving Audentes. Edward Conner's appointment is effective July 15. He joins Audentes from Sangamo Therapeutics, where he served as Senior VP and Chief Medical Officer and led the clinical development of the company's pipeline of genomic therapies. Fulvio Mavilio joined Audentes in 2017 from Genethon where he served as Chief Scientific Officer and led the development of a pipeline of gene therapy programs.

15:37 EDT Google prohibits marijuana delivery apps from Play Store - Alphabet's Google has updated its Google Play Store content policy to say that it doesn't allow apps that facilitate the sale of marijuana or marijuana products, regardless of legality. Google listed some examples of common violations, including: allowing users to order marijuana through an in-app shopping cart feature; assisting users in arranging delivery or pick up of marijuana; and facilitating the sale of products containing THC. Reference Link

15:24 EDT Genetic Technologies granted patent in Europe for gene mapping - Reference Link

15:03 EDT Axel Springer confirms talks with KKR for strategic investment - Axel Springer (AXELF) announces that its Executive Board is in negotiations with Kohlberg Kravis Roberts (KKR) as well as Dr. h.c. Friede Springer for a potential strategic investment of KKR in Axel Springer. It added, "The state of negotiations provides KKR to launch a public tender offer to the other shareholders of Axel Springer SE to acquire their shares after KKR has agreed on a consortium with companies held by Dr. h.c. Friede Springer and chief executive offer Dr. Mathias Doepfner. Dr. h.c. Friede Springer, majority shareholder Axel Springer Gesellschaft fuer Publizistik GmbH & Co which is held by Dr. h.c. Friede Springer and Dr. Mathias Doepfner do not intend to sell their shares in Axel Springer SE in the course of the transaction. By this exploration, the Executive Board is pursuing its growth strategy of increasing the enterprise value in the long-term. KKR as long-term orientated investor acting jointly in a consortium with Dr. h.c. Friede Springer and Dr. Mathias Doepfner will support this strategy. In the view of the Executive Board, it is currently open whether there will be a public tender offer and an investment by KKR in Axel Springer SE or any subsequent corporate structural measures. In particular, legal, tax and financial feasibility still needs to be reviewed in detail by the parties involved.

14:30 EDT Wells Fargo names former BofA CFO Noski to board of directors - Wells Fargo (WFC) announced that Charles H. Noski has been elected to the company's board of directors, effective June 1, 2019. Noski will serve on the board's Audit and Examination Committee. Noski currently serves as a director and chairman of the audit committees of Booking Holdings Inc. (BKNG) and Microsoft (MSFT). During his business career, Noski has served in numerous senior leadership roles, including as vice chairman of Bank of America (BAC), where he also served as executive vice president and chief financial officer.

13:16 EDT Salesforce announces 'low-code' blockchain platform at developer conference - Salesforce announced Salesforce Blockchain, what it says is a "low-code platform that enables organizations to share verified, distributed data sets across a trusted network of partners and third parties." Salesforce Blockchain made its debut today at TrailheaDX, Salesforce's fourth annual developer conference. "We help companies build for the future by making breakthrough technology accessible and easy to use-today we are doing just that with Salesforce Blockchain," said Bret Taylor, President and Chief Product Officer, Salesforce. "Now, companies will be able to create new ecosystems and achieve new levels of interconnectivity through trusted partner networks."

12:54 EDT Exxon Mobil sees doubling of potential annual cash flow from operationd by 2025 - ExxonMobil expects to increase annual earnings potential by more than 140% and double potential annual cash flow from operations by 2025 from 2017 adjusted earnings, assuming a 2017 oil price of $60 per barrel adjusted for inflation and based on 2017 margins. "ExxonMobil is progressing growth plans to substantially increase earnings and cash flow potential while researching technology breakthroughs to reduce emissions, Chairman and CEO Darren Woods told shareholders during the company's annual meeting . "We are committed to sharing the company's success with our shareholders," said Woods. "Higher earnings and increased cash flow from our investments are a good means to accomplish this. We are equally committed to helping society reduce global emissions while supporting growth and prosperity for communities around the world - effectively addressing the dual challenge...The world needs additional solutions," he said. "That's where we think we can add significant value - leveraging ExxonMobil's experience in the global energy system and our strong foundation in research and development," Chairman and CEO Darren Woods told shareholders.

12:03 EDT Synalloy rejects unsolicited offer by Privet Fund Management - Synalloy Corporation announced that the Executive Committee of its Board of Directors, acting on behalf of the Board of Directors, after deliberation and careful consultation with its independent financial and legal advisors, once again rejected an unsolicited offer by Privet Fund Management for a proposed transaction whereby Privet would purchase all of the issued and outstanding shares of Synalloy not already owned by Privet. Privet's most recent offer was unchanged and simply reiterated its offer dated April 23, 2019. "The Board believes that Privet has two options at this point," said CEO Craig Bram. "Privet should either negotiate with the Executive Committee of the Board to determine an acceptable price, or tender for the shares and let the shareholders vote directly on the offer. This back and forth letter writing about an inadequate $20 per share offer is distracting and counter to our goal of building shareholder value,"

12:00 EDT Abercrombie & Fitch falls -24.7% - Abercrombie & Fitch is down -24.7%, or -$6.18 to $18.82.

12:00 EDT Canada Goose falls -26.4% - Canada Goose is down -26.4%, or -$12.95 to $36.07.

12:00 EDT Heico rises 9.6% - Heico is up 9.6%, or $10.04 to $114.89.

11:14 EDT Archer Daniels creates Ag Services & Oilsees business unit - Archer Daniels Midland Company announced the creation of a new business unit called Ag Services & Oilseeds, which combines ADM's Origination and Oilseed business operations into a single reporting structure, effective July 1. The new business unit will be led by Greg Morris, formerly president, Oilseeds for ADM. "ADM's ability to provide value through the entire supply chain - from origination to processing to transportation to ingredients and solutions - is what sets us apart from others in the industry," said Chairman and CEO Juan Luciano. "Bringing the unparalleled strength of our global origination, global trade and destination marketing businesses and our transportation network together with our leadership in oilseeds processing and value-added product mix is a natural evolution. This helps us better integrate the supply and value chains to deliver significant simplification and efficiency to the day-to-day business."

10:52 EDT PDC Energy says shareholders re-elect Brookman, Ellis, Mazza to board - PDC Energy announced that, based on the preliminary vote count provided by its proxy solicitor following the company's 2019 Annual Meeting of Stockholders, PDC shareholders have voted to re-elect Barton R. Brookman, Mark E. Ellis, and Larry F. Mazza to the company's Board of Directors. PDC issued the following statement: "On behalf of the PDC Energy Board and management team, we thank our shareholders for their strong support. We greatly appreciate the thoughtful and constructive feedback we received throughout this process and look forward to continued engagement to advance our shared goal of creating value. We are pleased shareholders remain confident in our team and operating plan focused on capital discipline, free cash flow generation, profitable growth, and return of capital to shareholders. We look forward to capitalizing on the Company's high-quality assets and operational capabilities to deliver superior returns for investors and create long-term, sustainable value.The preliminary results indicate that shareholders approved all other proposals considered at the Company's Annual Meeting, including, on an advisory basis, the compensation of the Company's named executive officers and the ratification of PricewaterhouseCoopers, LLP as PDC Energy's independent auditor."

10:47 EDT Chipotle says 'definitely sees path' to 5,000 restaurants in U.S.

10:28 EDT Uber says riders with 'significantly below average rating' may lose access - Uber said in a statement posted on its website, "When we created our global Community Guidelines in 2016, we had these common values in mind. Today we're refreshing these guidelines to make them simpler and clearer. Since everyone on our platform is expected to follow these guidelines, it's important to ensure people see and understand them...Riders may lose access to Uber if they develop a significantly below average rating. Riders will receive tips on how to improve their ratings, such as encouraging polite behavior, avoiding leaving trash in the vehicle and avoiding requests for drivers to exceed the speed limit. Riders will have several opportunities to improve their rating prior to losing access to the Uber apps. Respect is a two-way street, and so is accountability. Drivers have long been expected to meet a minimum rating threshold which can vary city to city. While we expect only a small number of riders to ultimately be impacted by ratings-based deactivations, it's the right thing to do." Reference Link

10:21 EDT Chipotle says avocado 'supply not quite keeping up with demand' - Says not planning to raise prices because of pressure from avocados, says pressure is "cyclical." Says pork issue "a supply problem." Comments taken from Bernstein's 35th Annual Strategic Decisions Conference.

10:16 EDT Dick's Sporting continues to expect hunt to be negative in 2019 - Says continued to see meaningful sales decline in Hunt. Says continues to expect category to be negative in 2019 but is reducing exposure. Says on track to rework space in 125 stores in Q2.

10:11 EDT Dick's Sporting says remains on track to open two e-commerce fulfillment centers - Says enthusiastic about business. Says e-commerce business remained strong. Says inventory is clean and well positioned. Says comp decline in hunt lessened, but category still meaningfully declined due to headwinds. Says remains on track to reallocate floor space in 125 additional stores. Says will continue review of hunt business. Says private brands are a source of strength. Says continues to focus on growing existing brands. Says remains focused on building best omnichannel experience. Says assortment will be more compelling in Q2. Comments taken from Q1 earnings conference call.

10:04 EDT Medtronic gains FDA clearance for new catheter system for HIS bundle pacing - Medtronic announced U.S. Food and Drug Administration clearance and commercial launch for the SelectSite C304-HIS deflectable catheter system for use in procedures involving His-bundle pacing. Medtronic says the SelectSite C304-HIS deflectable catheter system features a "deflectable, out-of-plane curve to reach the bundle of His and is designed to enable enhanced range maneuverability, fixation and implant success for a wider range of patient anatomies. Its adjustable form helps accommodate and secure the pacing lead in more challenging anatomies, including patients with a large right atrium."

10:01 EDT Cypress Semiconductor jumps 7% to $16.47 after Bloomberg report of interest

10:00 EDT Heico rises 5.9% - Heico is up 5.9%, or $6.23 to $111.09.

09:59 EDT Cypress Semiconductor trading halted, volatility trading pause

09:47 EDT Lannett rises 3.3% - Lannett is up 3.3%, or 18c to $5.59.

09:47 EDT Heico rises 6.7% - Heico is up 6.7%, or $7.04 to $111.90.

09:43 EDT Soliton Inc trading resumes

09:40 EDT Citi CEO says client engagement not suggesting recession is near

09:35 EDT Citi CEO says trading revenue, wallets 'right now are down'

09:29 EDT Terreno Realty acquires two properties in San Francisco for $47.8M - Terreno Realty Corporation acquired two industrial properties located in San Francisco, California on May 28, 2019 for a purchase price of approximately $47.8M. The properties consist of two industrial buildings containing approximately 119,000 square feet on 2.7 acres in the Dogpatch submarket of San Francisco's Central Waterfront. The properties are at 1501 Tennessee Street and 1400 Minnesota Street, provide 12 dock-high and 15 grade-level loading positions and parking for 12 cars. The properties are 100% leased to nine tenants, two of which expire within one year and all of which expire by January 2024. The estimated stabilized cap rate of the property is 4.0%.

09:18 EDT Citi CEO says digital adoption increasing faster than peers

09:15 EDT AMC Entertainment crosses 20M AMC Stubs households - AMC Entertainment announced that since the company relaunched its AMC Stubs program in summer of 2016, the program saw a 700% growth in membership in the U.S. "At the U.S. average of 2.6 people per household, that means more than 50 million people, which is more than 50 percent of the U.S. movie-going clientele, are enjoying the AMC experience through an engaged movie-going relationship via AMC Stubs."

09:13 EDT Nightstar Therapeutics updates timetable relating to Biogen acquisition - Nightstar Therapeutics (NITE) announced an update to the expected timetable of events relating to the scheme of arrangement pursuant to which Tungsten, a newly-incorporated company and wholly-owned indirect subsidiary of Biogen (BIIB), will acquire the entire issued and to be issued share capital of Nightstar. The scheme remains subject to certain conditions including sanction by the court at the court hearing, which will now take place on June 5 and the delivery of a copy of the court order to the Registrar of Companies. Subject to the scheme receiving the sanction of the court and the delivery of a copy of the court order to the Registrar of Companies, the acheme is still expected to become effective on June 7.

09:09 EDT Kratos Defense receives $5M C5ISR production award from government agency - Kratos Defense announced that it has recently received a $5M command, control, communication, computing, combat and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, or C5ISR, production award from a U.S. government agency. Kratos C5ISR modular systems business provides products, hardware and solutions to the U.S. Department of Defense and other national security customers. Work under this recent contract award will be performed in a secure Kratos manufacturing facility. Due to customer related, competitive and other considerations, no additional information will be provided related to this contract award.

09:07 EDT Citi CEO says trade, Iran, Brexit weighing on market - Citi CEO Michael Corbat said the biggest recession risk is "talking ourselves into it." Says Argentina business doing better than ever. Comments taken from Bernstein's 35th Annual Strategic Decisions Conference.

09:04 EDT Nemaura Medical receives CE Mark approval for SugarBEAT - Nemaura Medical announced that it has received CE Mark approval for SugarBEAT. With this approval, Nemaura is permitted to commence sales of SugarBEAT throughout the European Union. The CE Mark approval includes recently added predictive alerts to the product design, which provide visual indication when glucose levels are falling or rising above minimum and maximum thresholds. Additional audible alerts or physical vibration of the bluetooth-enabled mobile phone connected to SugarBEAT occur in instances where glucose levels are deemed to fall to dangerously low levels, until switched off by the user.

08:55 EDT Fly Intel: Pre-market Movers - HIGHER: Cara Therapeutics (CARA), up 14% after announcing topline data from the KALM-1 pivotal Phase 3 trial of Korsuva Injection in hemodialysis patients with moderate-to-severe chronic kidney disease-associated pruritus... Soliton (SOLY), up 45% after deciding to move forward with a pivotal trial in cellulite after data from its proof of concept clinical trial for the reduction of cellulite was confirmed. UP AFTER EARNINGS: Dick's Sporting (DKS), up 2%. DOWN AFTER EARNINGS: Capri Holdings (CPRI), down 6%... Canada Goose (GOOS), down 15%... Abercrombie & Fitch (ANF), down 17%. LOWER: Boeing (BA), down 1% after The Wall Street Journal reports IATA Director General Alexandre de Juniac said airlines are preparing for 10-12 more weeks of delay before the Boeing 737 MAX can return to service... ArcelorMittal (MT), down 3% after announcing its decision to take additional steps to cut its European production levels to further align its production to the current market demand.

08:48 EDT NXP Semiconductors to acquire Marvell's $1.76B wireless connectivity portfolio - NXP Semiconductors (NXPI) announced that its wholly owned subsidiary has entered into a definitive agreement with Marvell (MRVL) under which NXP will acquire Marvell's wireless connectivity portfolio in an all-cash, asset transaction valued at $1.76B. The acquisition encompasses Marvell's wifi connectivity business unit, bluetooth technology portfolio and related assets. The acquisition will enable NXP to deliver processing and connectivity solutions to its customers across its focus end markets. The acquisition includes approximately 550 people worldwide. NXP expects the acquisition to create new revenue opportunities in its target end markets. With approximately $300M in revenue in Marvell's FY19, NXP anticipates revenue associated with the acquired assets to double by 2022. The acquisition is expected to be accretive to NXPs non-GAAP operating profit in the first full quarter after the transaction closes. The transaction is expected to close by Q1 of 2020, subject to customary closing conditions, including regulatory approvals.

08:42 EDT Altus Midstream acquires 26.7% equity interest in Permian Highway Pipeline - Altus Midstream (ALTM) announced that its subsidiary, Altus Midstream Processing, has exercised and closed its option to acquire an approximate 26.7% equity interest in the Permian Highway Pipeline, or PHP. PHP is an estimated $2.1B long-haul pipeline that is expected to have approximately 2.1 Bcf/d of natural gas transportation capacity from the Waha area in northern Pecos County, Texas, to the Katy, Texas area, with connections to Texas Gulf Coast and other markets. The final investment decision to proceed with the project was made in September 2018, and the initial capacity of the pipeline is fully subscribed under long-term binding agreements. PHP is expected to enter service in October 2020 and is approximately 26.7% owned by each of Altus Midstream Processing, Kinder Morgan (KMI) and EagleClaw Midstream Ventures with the remaining 20% owned by an anchor shipper affiliate.

08:40 EDT Itau Corpbanca announces acquisition of Corredores de Bolsa - Itau Corpbanca announced that it filed a material event notice reporting the acquisition of Corredores de Bolsa in compliance with the transaction agreement with the Chilean Financial Market Commission and with the Chilean Superintendency of Banks and Financial Institutions.

08:36 EDT OncoSec collaborating for Tavo in Australia with Emerge Health - OncoSec and Emerge Health Pty, an Australian company providing full registration, reimbursement, sales, marketing and distribution services of therapeutic products in Australia and New Zealand, have entered into a collaboration agreement commercializing OncoSec's proprietary Tavo and making it available under Australia's Special Access Scheme in 2019. This collaboration will allow OncoSec to begin generating revenue, potentially as early as Q4. Tavo will be the only drug available under the SAS program for melanoma patients who have failed checkpoint inhibitor or targeted therapy.

08:33 EDT ReWalk Robotics receives CE mark for ReStore stroke rehabilitation device - ReWalk Robotics' ReStore Exo-Suit for stroke rehabilitation has received CE marking, clearing it for sale to rehabilitation clinics in the European Union. This CE Mark is the first clearance of a soft exo-suit, a next generation medical device which can serve a larger and more diverse patient population facing mobility challenges. ReStore will be priced lower than the first generation of rigid exoskeleton technologies. ReWalk will offer direct purchase and third party leasing programs for the ReStore in the EU.

08:32 EDT Gilead appoints Johanna Mercier as Chief Commercial Officer - Gilead Sciences (GILD) announced that Johanna Mercier will join the company as Chief Commercial Officer and will become a member of the company's senior leadership team. Mercier will assume responsibility for the company's commercial operations effective July 1. Laura Hamill, Executive Vice President Worldwide Commercial Operations, will be departing from Gilead. She joins Gilead from Bristol-Myers Squibb (BMY), where she most recently served as President and Head of the company's Large Markets division, which includes the United States, France, Germany and Japan.

08:17 EDT QAD Inc expands partnership with Scott Sheldon LLC - QAD Inc. has entered into a channel partnership that affords Scott Sheldon LLC the ability to resell QAD Adaptive Applications in North America. QAD began working with Scott Sheldon in 2016, signing a consultancy partnership agreement in North America, giving Scott Sheldon the right to provide services in relation to QAD's enterprise and supply chain software.

08:13 EDT Fibrocell Science granted RMAT designation from FDA for FCX-007 - Fibrocell Science announced that the FDA has granted the regenerative medicine advanced therapy, or RMAT, designation to FCX-007, the company's gene therapy candidate for the treatment of recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa, or RDEB, a genetic skin disease with high mortality. The company expects to initiate the Phase 3 clinical trial for FCX-007 in Q2. Fibrocell projects enrollment and dosing of Phase 3 patients will be completed in Q3of 2020 and data collection for the primary endpoint will be completed in Q4 of 2020.

08:12 EDT Hologic announces FDA clearance for Aptima BV, Aptima CV/TV assays - Hologic announced that the FDA has granted clearance for its new Aptima BV and Aptima CV/TV assays, which provide an accurate and objective method for diagnosing vaginitis, "a very common and complex health issue affecting millions of women each year... Unfortunately, many women self-diagnose and self-treat before visiting a healthcare provider, assuming that abnormal vaginal discharge, itching or irritation is due to a simple yeast infection... The Aptima Multitest Swab Specimen Collection Kit enables healthcare providers to test up to seven disease states and infections, including BV, Candida species, Candida glabrata, trichomoniasis, chlamydia, gonorrhea and Mycoplasma genitalium."

08:11 EDT Soliton to begin cellulite reduction trial after proof-of-concept results - Soliton has decided to move forward with a pivotal trial in cellulite after positive data from its proof of concept clinical trial for the reduction of cellulite confirmed. The Pivotal cellulite study is expected to begin within the next three months. In a single 20-minute, non-invasive treatment, the Rapid Acoustic Pulse device was applied to the surface of the patients' skin. The treatments required no anesthesia, caused no bruising, swelling or bleeding, and were evaluated as relatively painless by the trial participants, none of whom experienced any post-treatment discomfort or downtime. While the company's RAP device intended to assist in tattoo removal was recently cleared by the FDA, this higher-powered version will require a new application for clearance for the cellulite indication. In the POC Trial, approximately 97% of treatments were rated 0 on a 0 to 10-point pain scale. At the end of the 12-week POC Trial, 100% of the patients showed clinical improvement. The range of improvement in cellulite severity score was 20% to 47% and the average improvement for all patients was nearly a 30% improvement. The only FDA approved method for long-term reduction of cellulite is an invasive treatment requiring topical anesthesia, penetration of the skin and involves potential bleeding, bruising and significant post-treatment discomfort and downtime.

08:10 EDT Horizon Pharma, Invitae announce new UCD genetic testing program - Horizon Therapeutics plc (HZNP) in partnership with Invitae Corporation (NVTA) announced a new urea cycle disorder genetic testing program designed to speed diagnosis and enable physicians to offer genetic testing at no-charge to people who may have a UCD, including their family members. Horizon's support of the UCD Genetic Testing Program facilitates the genetic tests and services offered and performed by Invitae. The UCD Genetic Testing Program utilizes the Invitae Hyperammonemia Panel to evaluate 58 genes that are associated with the enzymes and transporter proteins responsible for the production and detoxification of ammonia. Horizon provides financial support to Invitae for this program, which enables physicians to offer genetic testing at no-charge to their patients. Patient privacy is strictly protected and Horizon does not have any access to any identifiable patient information. Tests and services are performed by Invitae. Healthcare professionals must confirm that patients meet certain criteria to use the program. Genetic testing and counseling are only available in the United States.

08:09 EDT World Fuel Services raises quarterly dividend to 10c per share - World Fuel Services announced that its board has declared the company's quarterly cash dividend which, as previously announced, has been increased to 10c per share and will be payable on July 5, to shareholders of record on June 10.

08:06 EDT InVivo Therapeutics enrolls first 2 patients into INSPIRE 2.0 study - InVivo Therapeutics announced that the first two patients have been enrolled into The INSPIRE 2.0 Study, or InVivo Study of Probable Benefit of the Neuro-Spinal Scaffold for Safety and Neurologic Recovery in Subjects with Complete Thoracic AIS A Spinal Cord Injury. The INSPIRE 2.0 Study is a two-arm 20-patient--10 subjects in each study arm--randomized, controlled trial designed to provide clinical data that will supplement the existing clinical results from the company's previous single-arm study. The definition of study success for the INSPIRE 2.0 Study is that the difference in the proportion of subjects who demonstrate an improvement of at least one grade on ASIA Impairment Scale assessment at the six-month primary endpoint follow-up visit between the Scaffold Arm and the Comparator Arm must be equal to or greater than 20%.

08:05 EDT Mack-Cali Realty to form committee for review of 'strategic direction' - Mack-Cali Realty announced that its board intends to form a committee of independent directors to conduct a review of the company's strategy, asset portfolio and business opportunities to ensure that all available alternatives for continuing stockholder value creation are carefully and thoughtfully considered. The board expects to form the Strategic Review Committee after its upcoming Annual Meeting of Stockholders scheduled for June 12, 2019. Upon completion of its review, the Strategic Review Committee will make a recommendation to the full board as to whether it is advisable to continue to execute on the company's business plan, consider a sale of the company or any of its assets, or take other action to maximize stockholder value. The company also agreed to establish a committee of independent directors, which would include the two Bow Street nominated directors, to conduct a review of the company's strategic direction. However, despite the company's good faith efforts to negotiate a fair and reasonable settlement, the parties were unable to reach an agreement due to fundamental differences as to the committee's objectives and process, including Bow Street's desire to force a precipitous sale of the company at any price, which would allow Bow Street to realize a quick profit on its recent investment, but would be detrimental to other Mack-Cali stockholders. Bow Street was also unwilling to agree to a meaningful standstill and demanded expense reimbursement of up to $2.0M, which the company believes is vastly in excess of any reasonable amount.

08:04 EDT Glu, WWE launche WWE Universe - Glu Mobile (GLUU) announced the availability of WWE Universe on the App Store and Google Play. As part of a multi-year agreement with WWE (WWE), and developed by the same studio as Glu's largest sports franchise, Tap Sports Baseball, WWE Universe offers the most authentic WWE experience on mobile to date, allowing players to build and train dream rosters before challenging others.

07:55 EDT MediWound announces additional $21M in funding from BARDA - MediWound announced that the U.S. Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority, or BARDA, has upsized its awarded contract with MediWound and provided supplemental funding of $21M to initiate NexoBrid expanded access treatment protocol, or NEXT. Under the modified contract including this supplemental amount, BARDA will provide technical assistance and a total amount of $77M in funding for NexoBrid development activities towards U.S. marketing approval from the FDA. These activities include the ongoing NexoBrid Phase 3 study and subsequent requirements for biologics license application, or BLA, submission, the ongoing Phase 3 pediatric study and now also the new NexoBrid expanded access treatment protocol. The modified contract maintains the $16.5M commitment for procurement of NexoBrid, contingent upon FDA eligibility for use in an emergency or marketing approval; a $10M option to fund development of other potential NexoBrid indications and an option to fund up to $50M for additional NexoBrid procurement. In addition to this modified contract with MediWound for treatment of thermal burn injuries, BARDA also has a separate independent contract with MediWound to support the development of NexoBrid as a debridement product to treat sulfur mustard injuries, providing $12M in funding to support research and development activities up to pivotal studies in animals with options for additional funding of up to $31M for additional development activities through BLA submission. As a result of the additional $21M in committed funds for the thermal burn contract, the total non-dilutive funding under both contracts with BARDA is now valued at up to $196M. As of March 31, the company has received approximately $31M from BARDA.

07:43 EDT RYB Education appoints Hao Gu as CFO - RYB Education has appointed Hao Gu as its CFO, effective June 1. Gu will succeed Ping Wei, who has decided to retire from the role of CFO which she took in 2017. Wei will continue to serve RYB as a senior advisor. Prior to joining RYB, Gu worked as an executive director of the Asia Pacific Telecom, Media and Technology team in UBS AG's Investment Banking Division in Hong Kong.

07:35 EDT Dick's Sporting CEO says 'we were pleased with our start to 2019' - "We were pleased with our start to 2019, delivering higher merchandise margins and first quarter earnings per diluted share above last year. Same store sales turned positive in March and remained positive in April, as we started to see the benefits of our key strategies and investments," said Edward Stack, Chairman and CEO. "We are very enthusiastic about our business and are pleased to increase our full year earnings outlook." "During the first quarter, we made great progress in executing against our strategic priorities and investments as we remain focused on improving the in-store and online experience for our athletes and driving productivity improvements across our business," added Lauren Hobart, President. "As we continue to build the best omni-channel experience in sporting goods, we see significant opportunity to drive competitive advantage in the marketplace and strengthen our leadership position."

07:33 EDT Dick's Sporting expects to open seven new DICK'S Sporting Goods stores in 2019 - The company expects to open seven new DICK'S Sporting Goods stores and relocate three DICK'S Sporting Goods stores in 2019. The company also expects to open two new Golf Galaxy stores and relocate one Golf Galaxy store in 2019. Six of the new stores are expected to open during the third quarter. In 2019, the company anticipates capital expenditures to be approximately $230M on a gross basis and approximately $200M on a net basis. In 2018, capital expenditures were $198M on a gross basis and $170M on a net basis.

07:30 EDT Rocky Mountain Chocolate trading resumes

07:21 EDT Callaway Golf says in talks to acquire remaining stake in Callaway Apparel JV - In a regulatory filing, Callaway Golf Company reported that it is currently engaged in discussions, through its Japanese subsidiary Callaway Golf K.K., to acquire from TSI Groove & Sports Co. Ltd. the remaining stake in Callaway Apparel K.K., the company's apparel joint venture in Japan between CGKK and TSI. Currently, CGKK owns 52% of CAKK and TSI owns the remaining 48%.

07:17 EDT Cara Therapeutics announces topline data from KALM-1 Phase 3 trial - Cara Therapeutics announced topline data from the KALM-1 pivotal Phase 3 trial of Korsuva Injection in hemodialysis patients with moderate-to-severe chronic kidney disease-associated pruritus, or CKD-aP. The proportion of patients on 0.5 mcg/kg of Korsuva Injection achieving a three-point or greater improvement from baseline in the weekly mean of the daily 24 hour Worst Itching Intensity Numeric Rating Scale, or WI-NRS, score at week 12 was 51% vs. 28% for patients on placebo. The proportion of patients on 0.5 mcg/kg of Korsuva Injection achieving a four-point or greater improvement from baseline in the weekly mean of the daily 24 hour WI-NRS score at week 12 was 39% vs. 18% for patients on placebo. Patients on Korsuva Injection experienced a 43% improvement in the average total Skindex-10 score at week 12 vs. patients on placebo. Patients on Korsuva Injection experienced a 35% improvement in the average total 5-D Itch score at week 12 vs. patients on placebo. Korsuva was generally well-tolerated with a safety profile consistent with that seen in earlier Korsuva clinical trials. Overall, the incidence of adverse events, or AEs, and serious AEs were similar across both Korsuva and placebo groups. The most common treatment emergent AEs reported in greater than 5% of patients were diarrhea, dizziness, nasopharyngitis and vomiting.

07:07 EDT Hamilton Lane increases quarterly dividend 29% to 27.5c per share - Hamilton Lane declared a quarterly dividend of 27.5c per share of Class A common stock to record holders at the close of business on June 14 that will be paid on July 5. This represents a 29% increase from the prior dividend.

07:05 EDT Tortoise to acquire Advisory Research midstream energy business from Piper - Tortoise announced it has reached a definitive agreement to acquire the midstream energy asset management business of Advisory Research from parent company Piper Jaffray. The Advisory Research midstream energy infrastructure team has approximately $3B in assets under management in both balanced and equity strategies, through mutual funds, sub-advised closed-end funds and separate accounts. The transaction brings together two highly experienced and tenured midstream energy pioneers with strong track records and complementary investment philosophies anchored in fundamental research. The Advisory Research midstream energy infrastructure team, including Senior Portfolio Managers Jim Cunnane, Jr. and Quinn Kiley, will join Tortoise. The existing team will maintain oversight of Advisory Research's current midstream energy infrastructure business and client relationships. The transaction is expected to close during the second half of 2019, subject to customary regulatory and closing conditions, including fund board/shareholder approval.

07:00 EDT REV Group's ambulance division awarded five-year contract by FDNY - REV Group's ambulance division was awarded a five-year contract to build up to 425 Type I Wheeled Coach ambulances for the Fire Department of New York. The contract calls for a variety of vehicle configurations that is valued at approximately $160M depending on the vehicle mix requirements. It is anticipated that ambulances related to this contract will begin to ship mid FY20. This new fleet of ambulances includes an auxiliary power unit to meet the FDNY Green initiative.

06:57 EDT Piper Jaffray announces sale of Advisory Research - Piper Jaffray announced the sale of Advisory Research through two separate transactions which will result in the firm exiting its traditional asset management business. It has signed a definitive agreement to sell the midstream energy business of Advisory Research to Tortoise Capital Advisors. Piper Jaffray has also entered into a letter of intent to sell the remaining Advisory Research business to a partner group led by Matthew Swaim, managing director and executive committee chairman at Advisory Research. Piper Jaffray expects to generate net cash proceeds from these two transactions of approximately $60M-70M, exclusive of potential earn-out proceeds. Advisory Research currently represents approximately 5% of Piper Jaffray's adjusted net revenue. The transactions are expected to close in the second half of 2019 and are subject to customary regulatory and closing conditions, including client consents. The earn-out provisions of the Tortoise transaction provide additional potential consideration based on year one results.

06:55 EDT Rocky Mountain Chocolate trading halted, news pending

06:52 EDT Rockwell Medical announces submission of NDA for I.V. Triferic - Rockwell Medical announced that it has completed the submission of its New Drug Application to the U.S. FDA for the Intravenous formulation of Triferic. Earlier this month, the company announced the launch of the first product from its portfolio, Dialysate Triferic. Dialysate Triferic is mixed with liquid bicarbonate to deliver iron to patients via the dialysate, while I.V. Triferic is designed to be administered to patients intravenously. As a result, if approved, I.V. Triferic would allow dialysis centers to administer Triferic to patients regardless of the mode of bicarbonate delivery being used.

06:47 EDT Tapestry names Tom Glaser as COO, effective July 15 - Tapestry (TPR) announced the appointment of Thomas Glaser, as COO, effective July 15. Glaser will have responsibility across the end-to-end supply chain and the information technology backbone for Tapestry and its brands with functional oversight including product development and manufacturing resources, distribution, logistics, replenishment, ecommerce fulfillment and IT. He will report directly to the company's CEO, Victor Luis. Glaser joins Tapestry from VF Corporation (VFC), where he most recently held the position of Vice President, VF Corporation & President, Supply Chain.

06:44 EDT Capri Holdings down 10% to $35.00 after Q1, FY20 outlook misses estimates

06:39 EDT Capri Holdings reports inventory at March 30 of $953M, up 44.2% vs. prior year

06:36 EDT Evolent Health to contribute $70M to Passport for 70% ownership interest - Evolent Health announced it has entered into a definitive agreement to partner with the current owners of Passport Health Plan in continuing to serve the Kentucky Medicaid market. The current owners, which include The University of Louisville, University of Louisville Physicians, University Medical Center, Jewish Heritage Fund for Excellence, Norton Healthcare and the Louisville/Jefferson County Primary Care Association, have been seeking a partner to provide expanded management and operational support, as well as capital through joint ownership of the health plan and have selected Evolent as its long-term financial and operating partner. Per the terms of the agreement, Evolent will acquire an ownership interest in Passport Health Plan and will expand the scope and term of its long-term management services agreement with the health plan. Passport will be jointly owned and operated in partnership between Evolent, The University of Louisville and other Passport owners. Passport is a Louisville-based health plan that serves more than 300,000 Medicaid beneficiaries and has provided managed care services in Kentucky for over 20 years. Evolent has provided services to Passport since 2016, when the organizations formed a relationship to launch the Medicaid Center of Excellence, focused on improving health outcomes for Medicaid beneficiaries in Kentucky and in several states nationwide. Since partnering with Passport, Evolent has directly engaged thousands of Passport members through clinical programs and a model of care in partnership with local providers. Per the terms of the agreement, Evolent will contribute $70M for a 70% ownership interest in Passport Health Plan and will also provide interim balance sheet support if necessary to meet near-term regulatory capital requirements. Evolent Health expects to account for its ownership interest in the joint venture as an equity method investment. Passport will be jointly owned and operated through a partnership between Evolent, The University of Louisville, University of Louisville Physicians, University Medical Center, Jewish Heritage Fund for Excellence, Norton Healthcare and the Louisville/Jefferson County Primary Care Association. The plan will be governed by a newly formed board of directors upon closing with joint representation from the current owners and Evolent Health. As part of the transaction, Evolent will expand its existing management services agreement with Passport, taking on additional responsibilities for day-to-day management of the health plan including administrative, clinical and financial operations and oversight. Evolent will also enhance its clinical scope with additional clinical program support, network optimization and specialty care management, specifically in oncology and cardiovascular services. The amended MSA will have a 10-year term. The agreement is subject to normal closing conditions including approval from several state and federal regulatory agencies.

06:19 EDT ArcelorMittal plans another round of European production cuts - Further to the announcement made on May 6, ArcelorMittal announces its decision to take additional steps to adjust its European production levels to further align its production to the current market demand. The company continues to be impacted by weak market demand and high import levels in Europe. As a result, ArcelorMittal will: Reduce primary steelmaking production at its facilities in Dunkirk, France and Eisenhuttenstadt, Germany; Reduce primary steelmaking production at its facility in Bremen, Germany in the fourth quarter of this year, where a planned blast furnace stoppage for repair works will be extended; Extend the stoppage planned in the fourth quarter of this year to repair a blast furnace at its plant in Asturias, Spain. Commenting, Geert van Poelvoorde, CEO, ArcelorMittal Europe - Flat Products, said: "This is again a hard decision for us to have taken but given the level of weakness in the market, we feel it is the prudent course of action. This will be a temporary measure that will be reversed when market conditions improve. In the meantime, our employees remain our utmost priority and we are doing everything we can to ensure that the right social measures are in place to support them and their families during this difficult time." On May 6, ArcelorMittal announced its intention to temporarily idle production at its steelmaking facilities in Krakow, Poland and reduce production in Asturias, Spain. The announcement also impacted the planned increase of shipments at ArcelorMittal Italia to a six million tonne annual run-rate; the planned increase will be slowed down following a decision to optimise cost and quality over volume in the current environment.

06:06 EDT Bank of Montreal raises quarterly dividend by C$0.03 to C$1.03 per share - Bank of Montreal announced that its board declared a quarterly dividend of C$1.03 per share on paid-up common shares of Bank of Montreal for Q3, a C$0.03 increase from the previous quarter and up 7% from the prior year. The dividend on the common shares is payable on August 27, to shareholders of record on August 1. The dividends on the preferred shares are payable on August 26, to shareholders of record on August 1.

06:04 EDT Morningstar to acquire DBRS for $669M - Morningstar announced it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire DBRS, the world's fourth-largest credit ratings agency, for a purchase price of $669M. The combination of DBRS with Morningstar Credit Ratings' U.S. business will expand global asset class coverage and provide an enhanced platform for providing investors with leading fixed-income analysis and research. Morningstar intends to fund the transaction with a mix of cash and debt, which will include the placement of a new credit facility at closing. The transaction is expected to be accretive to net income per share in the first fiscal year after completion with an estimated closing in Q3, subject to regulatory approval and customary closing conditions.

06:00 EDT LinkedIn acquires Drawbridge; financial terms not disclosed - LinkedIn announced in a blog post that it has entered into an agreement to acquire Drawbridge, Inc, a startup that helps companies with identity management using machine learning. "We believe Drawbridge's team and technology will allow us to accelerate the capabilities of our Marketing Solutions platform, helping our customers better reach and understand their professional audiences and measure the ROI of their campaigns across mobile and desktop. As we integrate Drawbridge's technology into LinkedIn following the closing of the transaction, we will continue to maintain the strong controls our members and customers have over the data they choose to share with us." Reference Link

05:54 EDT Citi appoints as depository bank for Bicycle Therapeutics ADR program - Citi (C), acting through Citibank N.A., has been appointed by Bicycle Therapeutics (BCYC) to act as depositary bank for its American Depositary Receipt programme. Each ADR represents one ordinary share of the company.

05:50 EDT Devon Energy announces strategic exit of Canadian business for $2.8B - Devon Energy announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement to sell its Canadian business to Canadian Natural Resources Limited for $2.8B. This transaction is subject to customary terms and conditions and is expected to close by the end of Q2. Proceeds from the sale of Canada will be used for debt reduction.

05:49 EDT SPI Energy enters into security purchase agreement with Iliad Research - SPI Energy announced that it entered into a Security Purchase Agreement, or SPA, with Iliad Research & Trading. It further announced the completion of the closing of the transactions contemplated by the SPA. Pursuant to the terms of the SPA, SPI issued a promissory note in the original principal amount of $1.33M and received cash of $1.25M. Investor has the right to convert all or any portion of the outstanding balance into fully paid and non-assessable Ordinary Shares. The original conversion price is $10.00 per share, subject to adjustment for splits, dividends and similar events, and subject to downward adjustment to the conversion price of any subsequently issued convertible debt.

05:34 EDT Amgen announces more irrevocable undertakings to accept offer for Nuevolution - Amgen announced a recommended public cash offer to the shareholders of Nuevolution AB to tender all their shares in Nuevolution to Amgen for SEK 32.50 per share in cash. Nuevolution's shares are listed on Nasdaq Stockholm, Small Cap. Subsequent to Amgen's announcement of the Offer, S-E-Bankens Utvecklingsstiftelse and SEB-Stiftelsen, Skandinaviska Enskilda Bankens Pensionsstiftelse, which own approximately 7% and 5%, respectively, of the outstanding shares and votes in Nuevolution, have under separate agreements undertaken to accept the Offer, subject to certain conditions. The irrevocable undertakings given by S-E-Bankens Utvecklingsstiftelse and SEB-Stiftelsen relate to their entire respective holdings of Nuevolution shares. The undertakings are conditional only upon the Offer being declared unconditional not later than September 1 and upon Amgen not committing any material breach of the Nasdaq Stockholm's Takeover Rules. As set out in the Offer Announcement, Sunstone LSV Fund I K/S, Skandinaviska Enskilda Banken AB and Stiftelsen Industrifonden, which own approximately 21%, 20% and 18%, respectively, or 59% in the aggregate, of the outstanding shares and votes in Nuevolution, have previously undertaken to accept the Offer on identical terms. Together, the irrevocable undertakings given by Sunstone, Skandinaviska Enskilda Banken AB, Industrifonden, S-E-Bankens Utvecklingsstiftelse and SEB-Stiftelsen correspond to approximately 71% of the total number of shares and votes in Nuevolution.