Stockwinners Market Radar for December 05, 2019 - Earnings, Upgrades downgrades, option trades, Best Stock Advisory Service

20:10 EST Univar to sell environmental sciences business to AEA Investors for $195M - Univar announced a definitive agreement under which affiliates of AEA will acquire Univar Solutions' Environmental Sciences business for $195M. The transaction is expected to close by the end of 2019 or early 2020. The standalone Environmental Sciences business is expected to announce a new name and brand identity upon close of the transaction.

19:06 EST Intercept Phase 3 study for OCA in fibrosis patients published in The Lancet - Intercept announced that the positive results from the interim analysis of the Phase 3 REGENERATE study of obeticholic acid, or OCA, in patients with fibrosis due to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis have been published in The Lancet. This is the first peer-reviewed publication of positive results from a pivotal study evaluating an investigational therapy for NASH. "The first positive Phase 3 study results in NASH represent a real watershed moment for the hepatology field," said Zobair M. Younossi, M.D., Professor and Chairman of the Department of Medicine at Inova Fairfax Medical Campus, Chair of the REGENERATE Steering Committee and a lead author of the publication. "The antifibrotic efficacy observed with just 18 months of OCA treatment in REGENERATE is particularly meaningful because fibrosis is the most important histological predictor of liver failure and death in patients with NASH."

18:48 EST Uber: Non-consensual kissing of sexual body part reported in 1 in 3M U.S. trips - Uber released its Safety Report, the first comprehensive publication of its kind to be issued by a company, shares details on Uber's safety progress, processes, and data related to reports of the "most critical safety incidents" on its platform. For the purposes of the report, Uber examined data from 2017 and 2018, a time frime in which an average of over 3.1M trips took place each day in the U.S. The company claimed in the report that the "vast majority," or 99.9%, of Uber trips end without any safety-related issue at all. In terms of sexual assault data, the company reported the following for 2017 and 2018 combined: Non-Consensual Kissing of a Non-Sexual Body Part was reported to occur in about 1 in every 2,000,000 completed trips; attempted Non-Consensual Sexual Penetration was reported to occur in about 1 in 4,000,000 completed trip. This category covers a wide range of reports and includes attempted clothing removal and incident reports that are fragmented or incomplete due to memory loss or lack of event recall; Instances of Non-Consensual Touching of a Sexual Body Part were reported to occur in about 1 in every 800,000 trips; Non-Consensual Kissing of a Sexual Body Part was reported to occur in 1 in every 3,000,000 completed US trips; Non-Consensual Sexual Penetration-the most serious sexual assault category-was reported to occur in about 1 in 5,000,000 US trips, or on approximately 0.00002% of US trips; Across these 5 categories of sexual assault, riders account for nearly half (45%) of accused parties; From 2017 to 2018, Uber saw approximately a 16% decrease in the average incident rate of the 5 most serious sexual assault categories reported. Based on preliminary estimates for the first half of 2019, the same 5 categories of sexual assault currently reflect a 17-20% decrease when compared to the full year of 2018, the company said. However, as Uber invests even more in sexual assault prevention and reporting initiatives, there may be increased reporting of these 5 categories of sexual assault independent of the underlying frequency of occurrence, the company added.

18:44 EST Fly Intel: After Hours Movers - UP AFTER EARNINGS: Domo (DOMO) up 24.4%... EZCorp (EZPW) up 9.9%... DocuSign (DOCU) up 9.3%... Ulta Beauty (ULTA) up 8.9%... Zumiez (ZUMZ) up 8.9%... Cloudera (CLDR) up 7.4%... Medallia (MDLA) up 7.2%... Crowdstrike (CRWD) up 4.4%... American Outdoor Brands (AOBC) up 3.9%. DOWN AFTER EARNINGS: Yext (YEXT) down 21.8%... PagerDuty (PD) down 17.0%... Science Applications International Corporation (SAIC) down 10.5%... Zoom Video (ZM) down 8.1%... Korn Ferry (KFY) down 10.5%... Cooper Companies (COO) down 4.3%... Guidewire (GWRE) down 3.6%... Okta (OKTA) down 2.5%. ALSO LOWER: Uber (UBER) down 1.5% after disclosing 3K sexual assault claims made in 2018. Movers as of 18:30ET.

18:33 EST Chipotle CEO: I took time to understand what makes us unique - In an interview on CNBC's Mad Money, Chipotle CEO Brian Niccol said: We've put together a new team... The core of our business is great ingredients... The brand stands for something special... We have a second line that handles digital orders and that is a huge advantage for us... The second line of digital/delivery doesn't interfere with the restaurant experience... We are investing in the young farmer... We don't compromise on food freshness.

18:02 EST Black Hills utilities receive approval to upsize Renewable Ready program - Black Hills announced that its South Dakota Electric and Wyoming Electric utilities, doing business as Black Hills Energy, received approval from the South Dakota Public Utilities Commission to increase the offering under its Renewable Ready program by 12.5 megawatts and a determination from the Wyoming Public Service Commission that the proposed increase of the Corriedale Wind Energy Project to 52.5 megawatts is within commission rules. With these actions, Black Hills Energy will install five additional wind turbines, increasing the wind project from 40 megawatts to 52.5 megawatts and the project cost from $57M to $79M.

18:01 EST LeMaitre CFO sells 121K shares of common stock - In a regulatory filing, LeMaitre disclosed that CFO Joseph Pellegrino sold 121K shares of common stock on December 3rd-5th. The total transaction size was $4.36M.

18:01 EST Columbia Financial expands stock buyback to acquire additional 3M shares - Columbia Financial announced that it has expanded its stock repurchase program to acquire an additional 3,000,000 shares of the company's outstanding common stock in addition to the shares remaining under the repurchase program announced on June 11, 2019. Through September 30, 2019, the company has repurchased approximately 2,742,000 shares for approximately $42.1M under its previously announced stock repurchase program. Repurchases under the stock repurchase program may be made in open market transactions or privately negotiated transactions, and pursuant to a trading plan that the company intends to adopt in accordance with Rule 10b5-1 of the Securities and Exchange Commission.

17:47 EST Hanover Insurance raises dividend to 65c/shr, announces $2.50 special dividend - The Hanover Insurance Group has declared a special cash dividend of $2.50 per share and increased its regular quarterly dividend to 65c per share from 60c per share. Both the regular quarterly dividend and the special cash dividend will be payable on December 27, 2019, to shareholders of record at the close of business on December 16, 2019.

17:44 EST Hanover Insurance announces $150M accelerated buyback - The Hanover Insurance Group announced it has entered into an accelerated share repurchase agreement to buy back $150M of its common stock.With the $150 million ASR agreement and the $100 million, the company has completed the deployment of $850 million of capital generated through the sale of Chaucer, its Lloyd's business, at the end of 2018.

17:31 EST Cigna's Foss acquires over 10,000 common shares - In a regulatory filing, Cigna's Eric J. Foss disclosed the acquisition of 10,200 common shares of the company in two transactions, both dated December 3. The first transaction of 6,100 shares was purchased at $195.6566 per share, while the second transaction of 4,100 shares was purchased at $195.039 per share.

17:28 EST DocuSign up 8.5% to $75.38 after Q3 results beat estimates - The company also raised its outlook for FY20 revenue and issued Q4 revenue guidance that beat estimates.

17:18 EST Yext down 21% to $13.00 after Q4, FY20 guidance trail estimates

17:10 EST Douglas Emmett raises quarterly dividend by 8% to 28c per share - The dividend is payable on January 15, 2020 to shareholders of record as of December 31, 2019.

16:43 EST Eastman Chemical raises quarterly dividend 6.5% to 66c from 62c per share - The dividend is payable Jan. 3, 2020, to stockholders of record as of Dec. 16, 2019.

16:35 EST Establishment Labs reaches one million Motiva implants milestone - Establishment Labs Holdings announced its one millionth Motiva implant in market. Juan Jose Chacon-Quiros, Founder and CEO of Establishment Labs, commented, "In our tenth commercial year with Motiva Implants(R), we celebrate another important milestone, as we announce that we have one million Motiva Implants(R) in market. Most importantly, we achieved this milestone while maintaining less than a 1% complication rate for events related to Motiva Implants(R). I want to thank the entire Establishment Labs team and the growing group of surgeons for helping us deliver Motiva(R) to patients in more than 80 countries around the world."

16:32 EST GAP Airports reports November traffic up 10.1% - GAP Airports announced preliminary terminal passenger traffic figures for the month of November, compared to traffic figures for November 2018. During November, total terminal passengers at GAP's 14 airports increased by 10.1%, compared to the same period of the previous year. Domestic passenger traffic increased by 7.5%, while international passenger traffic increased by 13.6%.

16:32 EST Alector announces FDA fast track designation granted to AL001 for dementia - Alector announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has granted Fast Track designation for its investigational therapeutic, AL001, for the treatment of patients with frontotemporal dementia, FTD, carrying specific genetic mutations in the granulin gene. AL001 is the company's product candidate currently being evaluated in a Phase 2 trial for the treatment of FTD-GRN and FTD-C9orf72. Fast Track designation is designed to facilitate the development and expedite the review of therapies for serious conditions and fill an unmet medical need. Programs with Fast Track designation may benefit from early and frequent communications with the FDA, potential priority review, and additionally a rolling submission of the marketing application. "FTD is a devastating disease and remains an area of high unmet need, with no disease-modifying therapeutics approved for this condition today. We believe the granting of Fast Track designation by the FDA supports the clinical potential of AL001 and the importance of developing an effective therapeutic, rapidly" said Robert King, Ph.D., chief development officer at Alector.

16:31 EST Sierra Wireless CFO Dave McLennan retiring in mid-2020 - Sierra Wireless CFO Dave McLennan has decided to retire. By providing a lengthy notice period, Dave will be assisting in the company's transition to a new CFO. The company has engaged a global executive search firm and a formal process has commenced to recruit a replacement. The company expects to complete the transition by the middle of 2020. McLennan has held the CFO role since early 2004.

16:30 EST Integrated Core Strategies reports 5.1% passive stake in Axonics - Integrated Core Strategies disclosed a 5.1% stake in Axonics, which represents over 1.68M shares. The filing does not allow for activism.

16:24 EST Federal Agricultural Mortgage Aparna Ramesh as CFO, Treasurer - Federal Agricultural Mortgage selected Aparna Ramesh as its Executive VP - CFO and Treasurer, starting January 6. Ramesh joins Farmer Mac from the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston, where she served as Senior VP & CFO.

16:21 EST Hillenbrand raises quarterly dividend to 21.25c per share - The board of directors of Hillenbrand has declared a regular quarterly cash dividend of 21.25c per share on the company's common stock. On an annualized basis, this is an increase of 1c per share to a total rate of 85c per share in fiscal 2020. The dividend is payable December 31 to shareholders of record at the close of business on December 17.

16:21 EST Cambridge Bancorp to enter all-stock merger with Wellesley Bancorp - Cambridge Bancorp and Wellesley Bancorp announced entry into a definitive agreement pursuant to which Wellesley will merge with and into Cambridge in an all-stock transaction. Under the terms of the agreement, each share of Wellesley common stock will be exchanged for 0.580 shares of Cambridge common stock. The transaction is presently valued at $45.54 per Wellesley common share, or approximately $122M in the aggregate, based upon Cambridge Bancorp's 10 day average closing price of $78.53 as of December 4, 2019. On a pro forma basis the transaction is expected to be approximately 4.4% accretive to Cambridge's 2021 earnings per share and approximately 1.6% dilutive to tangible book value per share with an expected earnback period of approximately 2.2 years. As of September 30, 2019 Wellesley had approximately $986M of total assets, $833M of gross loans, $759M of deposits, and $363M of wealth management assets. Based on financial metrics as of September 30, 2019, the combined company is expected to have over $3.8B in assets, $3.0B in gross loans, $3.2B in deposits, and $3.6B of wealth management assets upon completion of the transaction.

16:19 EST C.H. Robinson raises quarterly dividend to 51c from 50c per share - The dividend is payable on December 31, 2019, to shareholders of record on December 16, 2019.

16:18 EST Braemar Hotels & Resorts says expects to pay quarterly dividend of 16c in 2020 - The Board approved the company's dividend policy for 2020. The company expects to pay a quarterly cash dividend of 16c per share for 2020, or 64c per share on an annualized basis. The Board will continue to review its dividend policy on a quarter-to-quarter basis.

16:17 EST Johnson & Johnson names Hubert Joly, Mark Weinberger to board of directors - Johnson & Johnson (JNJ) announced that Hubert Joly, Executive Chairman of Best Buy (BBY), and Mark Weinberger, Former EY Global Chairman and CEO, have been appointed to its Board of Directors.

16:16 EST Okta grew total customers to more than 7,400 organizations in Q3 - Okta announced that athenahealth has implemented the Okta Identity Cloud and new or expanded customer engagements with Berry Global Group, Cardinal Health, Dentsu Group, Knauf Information Services, and Tableau. In its fiscal Q3, Okta grew its total customers to more than 7,400 organizations, with 1,325 customers with annual contract value above $100,000, the company added.

16:15 EST Iconix Brand trading resumes

16:12 EST Scientific Games selected by Massachusetts Lottery for retail management system - Scientific Games announced that the Massachusetts Lottery has awarded a new contract for a lottery retail management system to Scientific Games. The new system aims to provide the Lottery with a more productive and streamlined connection to its network of over 7,500 retailers. The new three-year contract may be extended by the Lottery for two additional years and features Scientific Games' gemSuite of products. Scientific Games has provided retail management technology to the Massachusetts Lottery since 2011.

16:07 EST Okta CEO says subscription revenue growth driven by secular tailwinds - CEO Todd McKinnon says: ""Our strong third quarter results reflect our expanding leadership position and the growing importance of identity. Industry leading growth in subscription revenue, remaining performance obligations, and billings were driven by strong execution and the continued secular tailwinds of increasing adoption of cloud applications, digital transformation as companies improve how they connect with their employees and customers, and deployment of zero trust security environments. Businesses of all sizes around the world are turning to Okta's cloud-based solutions for a modern, highly customizable identity platform that meets their business needs and security challenges. We've made great progress and continue to innovate to address this large and growing market opportunity."

16:05 EST Y-mAbs and EMA reach pact on pediatric investigation plan for omburtamab - Y-mAbs Therapeutics announced that the European Medicines Agency, EMA, has agreed to the company's proposed Pediatric Investigation Plan for omburtamab. The decision was made on the basis of a positive opinion from EMA's Pediatric Committee. Omburtamab is being developed by Y-mAbs for the treatment of CNS/leptomeningeal metastases from neuroblastoma which is the indication targeted by the PIP, as well as a number of additional cancer indications. As part of the regulatory process for the registration of new medicines in Europe, pharmaceutical companies are required to provide a PIP outlining their strategy for investigation of the new medicinal product in the pediatric population. An approved PIP is a prerequisite for filing a Marketing Authorization Application for any new medicinal product in Europe. "We are pleased to announce this important regulatory milestone. The approval of the PIP provides Y-mAbs with a clear path for registration of omburtamab for the treatment of pediatric patients with CNS/leptomeningeal metastases from neuroblastoma. We look forward to continuing to work with EMA and PDCO to bring this important therapy to the European market as soon as possible," said Thomas Gad, Founder, Chairman, President and Head of Business Development and Strategy.

16:04 EST Ezcorp reports Q4 adjusted EBITDA $22.3M vs. $26.7M last year

16:03 EST Ezcorp announces $60M share repurchase authorization

15:59 EST Moody's raises Lockheed Martin to A3 from Baa1, outlook stable - Moody's Investors Service upgraded its ratings of Lockheed Martin: senior unsecured to A3 from Baa1, and senior unsecured shelf to A3 from Baa1. Moody's affirmed the company's P-2 commercial paper rating and withdrew the Baa1 issuer rating. The rating outlook is stable. "The upgrades recognize Lockheed Martin's consistent performance since it acquired Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation in November 2015, and our expectation that the company's financial profile will continue to improve going forward," said Moody's Senior Vice President, Jonathan Root. Revenues, margins and free cash flow have each expanded since the acquisition, more so from growth across Lockheed Martin's very diverse portfolio than from expansion of Sikorsky's business. "Lockheed Martin has also adopted a more conservative financial policy since 2017, annual share repurchases are now lower and repayment of maturing debt is a priority," continued Root. Lower financial leverage and Moody's expectation of further deleveraging through 2021 as upcoming debt maturities are repaid also support the ratings upgrade.

15:32 EST FDA approves first generics of Gilenya - The U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced that it has approved three applications for first generics of Gilenya capsules for the treatment of relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis in adult patients. The FDA granted approvals of generic fingolimod applications to HEC Pharm Co. Limited, Biocon Limited and Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Limited. Branded Gilenya is marketed by Novartis.

14:49 EST Pyxus' Figr Brands enters Ontario legal cannabis market - Pyxus International announced its wholly-owned indirect subsidiary Figr Brands, Inc. has entered Ontario, Canada's legal cannabis market. Figr's cannabis products are now available for sale online through the province's Ontario Cannabis Store, as well as at various retail locations. "The entrance into Ontario marks yet another significant milestone for Figr as it continues to expand its footprint across Canada," said Pyxus President, CEO and Chairman Pieter Sikkel. "Ontario is the most populated province in Canada with more than 14 million residents, all of whom now have the opportunity to purchase Figr's high-quality, fully traceable cannabis products." Figr's entrance into Ontario follows the November approval by Health Canada of the company's license amendment for its Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, facility. The amendment permitted the facility to operate in an additional 210,000 square feet, resulting in an expected run rate of up to approximately 28,000 kilograms of product per year. Upon completion and licensing of the full Prince Edward Island expansion project, Figr expects the facility's production capacity to be up to approximately 43,000 kilograms annually. With the addition of Ontario, Figr's products are now available in four Canadian provinces: Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, New Brunswick and Ontario.

14:46 EST Qualcomm launches its XR2 platform for 'a new era of AR, VR and MR experiences' - Qualcomm announced the launch of its XR2 platform. "The Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 platform enables a new era of augmented, virtual and mixed reality experiences that are more immersive, intelligent and connected .The Qualcomm SnapdragonXR2 Platform is the world's first 5G-supported extended reality, XR,platform. It unites Qualcomm Technologies 5G and AI innovations with our industry leading XR technology to usher in a new era of mobile computing. This premium-quality platform unveils custom features and boasts multiple firsts that can be scaled across augmented reality, AR, virtual reality, VR, and mixed reality, MR.The Snapdragon XR2 Platform is packed with significant performance improvements compared to our current widely adopted premium-tier XR platform[ to deliver 2x the CPU and GPU performance, 4x more video bandwidth, 6x higher resolution and 11x AI improvement. The Snapdragon XR2 Platform is the world's first XR platform to support seven concurrent cameras and a dedicated computer vision processor. Additionally, this is the first XR platform to enable low latency camera pass-through to unlock true MR, which allow users to see, interact and create a hybrid of the virtual and real world while wearing a VR device. To meet the demands of truly immersive XR, the platform has customized visuals, interactivity and audio technologies, all of which utilize the foundational technology of AI and option of 5G connectivity," said the company in a statement. Reference Link

14:13 EST Xilinx says will 'vigorously defend' self against Analog Devices patent suit - Xilinx, Inc. (XLNX) issued a response to the patent infringement lawsuit filed today by Analog Devices (ADI): "On December 5, 2019, a patent infringement lawsuit was filed by Analog Devices against Xilinx and our Zynq UltraScale+ RFSoC in the United States District Court for the District of Delaware. We intend to vigorously defend against this lawsuit. Xilinx has a history of creating pioneering technology spanning multiple decades. We created what many thought could not be done with the introduction of the Zynq UltraScale+ RFSoC - the industry's only single-chip adaptable radio platform. Through its patent lawsuit, Analog Devices has chosen to litigate rather than compete in the market."

13:31 EST Teck announces new collective agreement at Carmen de Andacollo operations - Teck Resourcesannounced that the Teck Carmen de Andacollo Workers Union, which represents 473 workers at Teck Carmen de Andacollo Operations in Chile, has ratified a new 36-month collective agreement. The benefits of the agreement are effective as of December 5, and operations have now resumed at CdA, the company said.

12:32 EST 3M shares down 2% after CFO speaks at Credit Suisse conference

12:13 EST Siga announces CDND intent to purchase up to 15,325 courses of oral TPOXX - SIGA Technologies announced that the Canadian Department of National Defence has issued an advanced contract award notice, indicating that the CDND intends to purchase up to 15,325 courses of oral TPOXX over four years as specified in the ACAN, with an initial purchase of 2,500 courses. The ACAN is required to remain open for at least 15 days, during which time a potential alternative supplier may submit a competing Statement of Capabilities. The contract would represent the first international order for TPOXX. As SIGA previously announced, the CDND intends to award a contract to support regulatory approval for TPOXX by Heath Canada. The Company is currently targeting a Canadian regulatory filing in the second half of 2020, with regulatory approval anticipated in 2021.

12:01 EST Booz Allen says has capabilities to support AWS Outposts - Booz Allen Hamilton (BAH) announced that it has capabilities to support AWS Outposts-fully managed and configurable compute and storage racks built with Amazon (AMZN) Web Services-designed hardware that allow customers to run compute and storage on premises, while seamlessly connecting to AWS's broad array of services in the cloud. As an AWS Outposts Partner, Booz Allen has been trained and vetted in delivering positive customer outcomes at scale through re-architecting complex workloads to run on AWS operations, the company said. "We're approaching a new time where we're not going to be worried about which region our data is sitting in," said John Pisano, principal and digital cloud lead at Booz Allen. "Instead, an ecosystem of devices operating from fixed locations to the edge will take over-whether it's on the battlefield or in the banking system. AWS Outposts combined with our tactical cloud and edge processing capabilities provides this end-to-end ecosystem for our client's data regardless of where their data sits."

12:00 EST AZZ Inc. rises 14.4% - AZZ Inc. is up 14.4%, or $5.53 to $43.86.

11:49 EST Biogen reverses, moves up as CTAD presentation ends, panel Q&A session begins - Shares of Biogen have moved from negative territory into positive territory as members of a panel have begun to discuss Phase 3 top-line results for aducanumab in patients with early Alzheimer's disease at the Clinical Trials on Alzheimer's Disease, or CTAD, Congress. As the panel discussion continues at the medical meeting, shares of Biogen are now up $7.04, or 2.43%, to $296.55.

11:39 EST Biogen down 3% as trading resumes, medical conference presentation continues - Biogen representatives are presenting at the Clinical Trials on Alzheimer's Disease, or CTAD, Congress on Phase 3 top-line results for aducanumab in patients with early Alzheimer's disease. After the release of the slides for the presentation, the stock has resumed trading and is down $9.08, or 3.1%, to $280.44 as the company's webcast of the presentation continues.

11:22 EST QuickLogic announces death of Chairman E. Thomas Hart - QuickLogic earlier announced that it mourns the loss of E. Thomas Hart, the Chairman and a member of the company's board of directors, who passed away December 3. On January 2, 2014, Hart became the non-executive Chairman of the Board of Directors. Brian Faith, CEO of QuickLogic, said, "We are deeply saddened by Tom's passing. Tom was an inspiring leader, valuable mentor, and friend. He brought great wisdom, insight, charisma, passion and wit to our company and he will be greatly missed."

11:13 EST Biogen posts slides for presentation of Alzheimer's Phase 3 study results - Shares of Biogen have been halted for trading as the company discusses the Phase 3 top-line results for aducanumab at the Clinical Trials on Alzheimer's Disease, or CTAD, Congress being held in San Diego, CA. Slides for the presentation, entitled "EMERGE and ENGAGE Topline Results: Two Phase 3 Studies to Evaluate Aducanumab in Patients With Early Alzheimer's Disease," have been posted to Biogen's website as the webcast of the CTAD presentation is currently ongoing. Reference Link

11:02 EST BAE Systems, Jaunt Air Mobility partner for electric energy management systems - BAE Systems is collaborating with Jaunt Air Mobility to explore the development of electric energy management systems for urban air mobility vehicles through a memorandum of understanding. During this collaboration, both companies will investigate product development for the future of aircraft electrification. The companies will also work together to examine aircraft power management needs and gain a deeper understanding of the extension of urban traffic into the airspace.

10:35 EST TEN, Ltd. announces charter extension for LNG carrier - TEN announced the extension of one of its LNG carriers for a minimum one-maximum three-year period. The new increased rate is set to commence in the first quarter of 2020 and expected to generate around $30M of gross revenues.

10:31 EST SFO confirms investigation into suspected bribery at Glencore - Earlier, the U.K. Serious Fraud Office issued this statement: "Following the announcement by Glencore PLC, the SFO confirms it is investigating suspicions of bribery in the conduct of business by the Glencore group of companies, its officials, employees, agents and associated persons. As this is a live investigation we cannot comment further."

10:03 EST Comcast's chief diversity officer David Cohen to step down - In a regulatory filing, the company said, "On December 5, 2019, David Cohen, Senior Executive Vice President of Comcast, announced that he will step down from his operational responsibilities effective January 1, 2020, and then transition from Senior Executive Vice President to Senior Counselor to Comcast's CEO beginning December 31, 2020."

09:50 EST Sage Therapeutics trading resumes

09:47 EST Elastic falls -16.8% - Elastic is down -16.8%, or -$13.10 to $65.10.

09:47 EST Enersis Chile rises 7.8% - Enersis Chile is up 7.8%, or 30c to $4.16.

09:47 EST Express rises 17.4% - Express is up 17.4%, or 68c to $4.59.

09:34 EST Misonix says real-world study results 'further prove' effectiveness of TheraSkin - Misonix announced the recent publication of two new large real-world studies that further prove the clinical effectiveness of its all human split thickness skin allograft TheraSkin for the treatment of complex wounds. Results of the studies were published in Wound Repair and Regeneration and International Wound Journal. Data published from the studies show that patients treated with TheraSkin experienced improvements in the treatment of complex wounds including: Diabetic ulcers were 59% more likely to close in the treatment cohort, compared to the control cohort. The healing rate with the graft was statistically better than standard of care across multiple subsets, with the most significant improvement noted in the worst wounds that had a duration of 90-179days prior to treatment, exposed deep structures, and/or Wagner Grade 4 ulcers. Furthermore, the decrease in ulcer recidivism was statistically significant at 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year, with and without exposed deep structures. The amputation rate in the treatment cohort was 42% less than that of the control cohort. TheraSkin treated wounds were more likely to close, particularly wounds with exposed structures and with lower recidivism at 6 months.

09:29 EST Kinross Gold to sell Lundin Gold shares for approx. C$150M - Kinross Gold Corporation announced that it has agreed to sell its remaining 20,656,250 shares in Lundin Gold to a syndicate of buyers for expected gross proceeds of approximately C$150M. The syndicate of buyers includes a wholly-owned subsidiary of Newcrest Mining Limited (NCMGY) and the Lundin Family Trust. The shares for sale represent approximately 9.2% of the issued and outstanding shares of Lundin Gold and are based on Lundin Gold's latest publicly released information regarding the number of shares currently outstanding. Closing of the sale is expected to occur on or about December 9, 2019. Kinross is selling its Lundin Gold shares as part of its portfolio management strategy and to further strengthen its balance sheet.

09:15 EST Aevi Genomics Medicine trading resumes

09:12 EST PenFed Credit Union, TrueCar, Volvo Car USA partner for incentive program - PenFed Credit Union, TrueCar (TRUE) and Volvo Car USA (VLVLY) have partnered on a private targeted incentive program that provides preferred pricing and other incentives for PenFed members. The Volvo PenFed Member Offer is available now until January 2, 2020 through the PenFed Car Buying Service powered by TrueCar. PenFed members are eligible to receive $1,000 Military Purchase Bonus Cash on purchased vehicles, plus transparent Affinity Program Pricing, which is equivalent to Volvo's employee pricing. The offer is valid at any Volvo dealership nationwide. Special incentives are available for PenFed members on select 2019 and 2020 Volvo models, including the popular XC40 luxury compact SUV.

09:07 EST Teradyne announces 6,000th shipment of J750 semiconducter testers with Ardentec - Teradyne announced the 6,000th shipment of the J750 family of semiconductor testers. The J750 family includes wafer sort and final test solutions for Microcontroller Units wireless devices and image sensors. Ardentec, with one of the largest installed bases of J750 testers, received Teradyne's 6,000th shipment.

09:05 EST Shineco regains compliance with Nasdaq continued listing requirements - Shineco announced that it has regained compliance with Nasdaq's continued listing requirement and rules with respect to annual meeting of shareholders. On July 1, 2019, the Company received a written notification from the Nasdaq Listing Qualifications Staff indicating that the Company did not comply with the annual meeting requirement for continued listing on The Nasdaq Capital Market set forth in Listing Rule 5620. On December 4, 2019, the Company received another written notification from Nasdaq Listing Qualifications Staff indicating that the Company has regained compliance with the annual meeting requirement for continued listing on The Nasdaq Capital Market set forth in the Rule.

09:04 EST XpresSpa announces renewed partnership with Hartsfield-Jackson airport - XpresSpa Group, Cordial Endeavor Concessions of Atlanta, and the City of Atlanta, together announced that the Atlanta City Council has approved new five-year terms for XpresSpa's leases on two of its busiest concourses at the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, Concourses A and C. The new lease terms facilitate the Settlement Agreement among these parties, pursuant to which XpresSpa has agreed to resume its joint venture with Cordial Endeavor Concessions of Atlanta. This agreement brings to a close six years of mediation, Federal Aviation Administration proceedings and litigation. The FAA is in agreement with the Settlement Agreement, and the parties involved will seek dismissal of all pending litigation.

09:00 EST Avalara says CFO Ingram to retire, Tennenbaum to become CFO on March 31, 2020 - Avalara last night announced that its chief financial officer, Bill Ingram, will retire March 31, 2020, and he will join the board of directors. Ingram will be succeeded as CFO by Ross Tennenbaum, Avalara's executive vice president of strategic initiatives. CEO Scott McFarlane said, "We are fortunate to have benefited from Bill's expertise and leadership, and we look forward to Bill's continued support when he joins our Board. At the same time, we're thrilled to have Ross already in place to lead our finance team and we expect a seamless transition between he and Bill. As demonstrated by this intended CFO transition, the Board and I are focused on building the next generation of leaders, which is critical in our pursuit of Avalara's vision to be the leading global cloud compliance platform."

08:54 EST Cerecor to acquire Aevi Genomics Medicine for $16.1M plus CVRs - Cerecor (CERC) announced it has entered into a definitive merger agreement to acquire Aevi Genomic Medicine (GNMX) in an all-stock transaction valued at approximately $16.1M at closing, plus contingent value rights, or CVRs, for up to an additional $6.5M in subsequent milestone payments on clinical or regulatory successes, or both. Additionally, the Company is exploring strategic alternatives for its neurological assets as well as its one commercialized product Millipred. The transaction is structured as a merger and is anticipated to be tax-deferred to the Aevi stockholders, with Cerecor retaining its public reporting and current NASDAQ listing status. Cerecor will acquire all outstanding shares of Aevi stock at an aggregate purchase price of $16.1M less an amount by which Aevi's net assets at closing are less than negative $1.3M, but in no event will such adjustment be more than $500,000. The per share price will be based on the number of Aevi shares outstanding immediately prior to closing, which, including the shares of Aevi stock to be issued to Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Foundation upon conversion of its outstanding secured promissory note and to AstraZeneca in connection with the exercise by Aevi of its license option for MEDI2338, is anticipated to result in an approximate per share value of $0.134 to Aevi stockholders, assuming the maximum net asset related adjustment. Cerecor will issue contingent value rights to former Aevi stockholders, which would entitle them to an additional $2M in cash or stock upon the enrollment of a patient in a Phase II study related to the AEVI-002, AEVI-006 or AEVI-007 within 24 months. The contingent value rights also entitle former Aevi stockholders to an additional $4.5M in cash or stock upon FDA approval of a New Drug Application for AEVI-007 or AEVI-006 within 60 months. Closing is targeted during the first quarter of 2020, subject to effectiveness of a Cerecor registration statement on Form S-4, Aevi shareholder approval and other standard closing conditions. Cerecor continues its commitment to becoming an R&D-focused biopharmaceutical company with a robust pipeline of rare and orphan disease programs. This transaction expands the number of clinical programs in development at Cerecor while creating depth of focus in rare and orphan and pediatric diseases. To that end, the Company looks forward to continuing Aevi's work with Children's Hospital of Philadelphia in the field of rare and orphan diseases. The integration of Aevi's pipeline programs should enhance the Cerecor pipeline and broaden an already rich set of near-term inflection points for Cerecor's rare and orphan disease portfolio, which includes the CERC-800s. Aevi's clinical-stage programs have the potential to benefit a variety of patient populations with significant unmet needs. Additionally, one or more of Aevi's programs may be eligible for a Priority Review Voucher granted by the Food and Drug Administration associated with Rare Pediatric Disease Designation. AEVI-007 is a fully human anti-IL-18 monoclonal antibody with the potential to address multiple auto-inflammatory diseases, including Adult Onset Stills Disease and Multiple Myeloma. IL-18 is a pro-inflammatory cytokine; patients with AOSD and MM show elevated levels of IL-18. Cerecor seeks to initiate a Phase 1b/2a proof-of-concept study of AEVI-007 in AOSD and MM patients in 2020. AEVI-006 is an mTORC1/2 inhibitor targeted towards Complex Lymphatic Malformations. LM patients often have activating mutations along the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway and sirolimus is an mTORC1 inhibitor that has demonstrated clinical utility in LM. AEVI-006 has the potential to improve on both the safety and efficacy of mTOR inhibition in LM. Cerecor seeks to initiate a Phase 1b/2a proof-of-concept study of AEVI-006 in LM patients in 2020. AEVI-002 is an anti-LIGHT, fully human, monoclonal antibody being developed as a treatment for Pediatric Crohn's Disease. AEVI-002 is currently in a Phase I study in adult Crohn's patients and has recently dosed the first patient. We anticipate initial data in the first half of 2020. Aligns with Cerecor's transformation and innovation strategy: Cerecor's pipeline strategy is focused on developing new medicines for rare and orphan diseases. Aevi's pipeline programs complement Cerecor's existing pediatric rare disease pipeline led by CERC-801, CERC-802 and CERC-803, which are therapies for inborn errors of metabolism, specifically disorders known as Congenital Disorders of Glycosylation. The FDA has granted RPD Designation and Orphan Drug Designation to all three CERC-800 compounds, thus qualifying the Company to receive a PRV upon approval of an NDA. Upon closing of the merger, it is expected that Mike Cola, current CEO of Aevi, will become CEO of Cerecor and Dr. Garry Neil, current CSO of Aevi, will become CMO of Cerecor.

08:49 EST Cerecor to acquire Aevi Genomics Medicine in $16.1M all-stock transaction - Aevi Genomic Medicine (GNMX) announced that it entered into a definitive merger agreement with Cerecor (CERC) pursuant to which Aevi will merge with a wholly owned subsidiary of Cerecor in an all-stock transaction valued at approximately $16.1M at closing, plus contingent value rights, or CVRs, for up to an additional $6.5M in subsequent milestone payments on clinical or regulatory successes, or both. Following closing, the combined bio-pharmaceutical company will continue to be focused on pediatric orphan diseases and operate under the name Cerecor. Michael Cola will become CEO and Garry Neil will become Chief Medical Officer, of the combined company. The boards of directors of both Aevi and Cerecor have approved the proposed transaction. The consummation of the Merger is subject to customary closing conditions, including the stockholders of Aevi approving the Merger and the SEC declaring effective the registration statement on which the shares of Cerecor common stock issued in the merger will be registered. The merger is expected to close during the first quarter of 2020.

08:46 EST Blink Charging installs 30 EV charging stations in Miami Beach Convention Center - Blink Charging announced the installation of 30 electric vehicle charging stations in the newly renovated Miami Beach Convention Center. The City of Miami Beach deployed the fastest available, Level 2 charging stations in the MBCC as a part of their sustainability initiatives which include an expansion of their EV station network together with Blink. The Blink EV stations are located in the property's parking garage, split onto three floors, with seven dual pedestals on the fourth floor, six dual pedestals and two single pedestals on the fifth floor, and two wall-mounted chargers on columns in the loading dock, creating a total of 30 chargers with designated spots for EV drivers.

08:44 EST RenovaCare CEO says advancing SkinGun is 'highest priority' in 2020 - RenovaCare provided an update from its new CEO Alan Rubino, as well as his outlook for 2020. The letter read in part, "During my 35 years of industry experience, I have led 8 large business units and presided over 20 new product launches. Yet, the technology platform and patent portfolio for organ and tissue regeneration at RenovaCare is one of the most compelling opportunities I have seen in the emerging cell therapeutics category. Before sharing my outlook for 2020, I want to thank all our stakeholders for the confidence entrusted in me and my management team to push forward on our goal of potentially replacing painful skin grafting surgeries with a gentle healing mist of one's own skin stem cells using our SkinGun. Our commitment to this mission is supported by peer-reviewed publications and the compelling treatment outcomes of more than 70 second-degree burn patients, who were experimentally treated with an early version of the technology underlying the SkinGun...The last few years have been exciting indeed, with the highlight of 2017 being the almost year-long display of the RenovaCare SkinGun at the Science Museum in London, which holds a world-class collection of scientific, technological and medical achievements. Along with the $15.5M capital investment by a single investor, the Chairman of the Board of RenovaCare, much of the focus in 2018 and 2019 has continued to be on our regulatory program and planning for the clinical trials of the SkinGun. For me, 2019 was clearly a pivotal year for RenovaCare. We were awarded new patent protections, allowing our novel SkinGun to now spray all varieties of tissues and cells, thus opening the door for its potential application in the regeneration of tissues and organs, beyond skin...We enter a brand-new year excited by the many opportunities that lay before us with ample cash and the support and encouragement of our many stakeholders. Our highest priority in 2020 will be to advance the SkinGun through our regulatory program so we can obtain approval for conducting clinical trials, initially for establishing the safety of our device. While there are no guarantees of obtaining regulatory consent for our clinical trials, our confidence is strengthened by peer-reviewed publications and by the compelling visual outcomes of the more than 70 burn patients experimentally treated with an early version of the technology underlying the SkinGun. Our goal is to bring our therapy to the tens of millions worldwide who suffer from burns, chronic and acute wounds, and scars, an estimated $45B market in the U.S. alone.

08:40 EST CVS Health provides update on first anniversary of Aetna acquisition - CVS Health has completed the first year of combined operations following the acquisition of Aetna in late 2018. The combined company has met or exceeded its first-year integration goals. CVS Health remains on track to meet its most recent 2019 net synergy guidance and remains confident in its net synergy targets for 2020 and 2021. CEO Larry Merlo said, "(...) Our HealthHUB model, which launched in Houston this year and will expand to a projected 1,500 locations by the end of 2021, has already shown an ability to improve patient outcomes and enhance customer satisfaction. We've also invested in a suite of in-home and digital offerings to better meet consumers where they are, such as our home hemodialysis device which is the subject of a clinical trial to support a future request for FDA clearance, and new virtual health services available through the CVS Pharmacy app. What's good for consumer health will be good for business, and the early results back that up."

08:40 EST Kroger says plans to initiate share repurchases in Q4 - As a result of being within its targeted debt range, Kroger plans to initiate share repurchases in the fourth quarter under its $1B board authorization.

08:38 EST Predictive Oncology confirms indications of interest for Skyline Medical - Predictive Oncology announced that it has received indications of interest from several parties for the possible acquisition of its Skyline Medical division, which produces and sells the STREAMWAY System for disposal of fluids in medical applications. As previously announced, Predictive Oncology has determined that it will focus its resources on its primary mission of applying artificial intelligence to precision medicine and drug discovery. Skyline Medical's patented, FDA-approved STREAMWAY System is the first truly continuous, direct-to-drain fluid disposal system designed specifically for medical applications. The division has expanded sales globally and made significant inroads in U.S. markets. The Company believes it will have updates on the future of its Skyline Medical business by early in 2020. The Company will evaluate its alternatives for the Skyline Medical business in order to maximize value for its stockholders. There is no assurance that the Company will ultimately receive offers for the division that it deems acceptable. Further, there is no assurance that the Company will enter into a definitive agreement or ultimately complete a sale of the division.

08:36 EST Fiserv to sell 60% of investment services business to Motive Partners for $510M - Motive Partners and Fiserv have entered into a definitive agreement under which Motive Partners-led investors will acquire up to 60% of the investment services business of Fiserv. Retaining a 40% equity interest in the business, Fiserv will receive approximately $510M in net after-tax proceeds. The investment services business is a technology provider for segments of the wealth and asset management industry. Going forward, the business will benefit from the experience and expertise of Fiserv, Motive Partners and Cannae Holdings in growing scaled financial technology businesses and will remain committed to delivering wealth management capabilities through technology solutions. The newly formed joint venture will continue to be led by Cheryl Nash, president of investment services at Fiserv. Upon the closing of the transaction, Rob Heyvaert, founder and managing partner of Motive Partners, will serve as executive chairman of the joint venture. William Foley, executive chairman of Cannae Holdings, Dun & Bradstreet and Black Knight and Alvi Abuaf, industry partner for Motive Partners, will also join the board. The transaction, which is subject to customary approvals and closing conditions, is targeted to close in Q1 and is expected to be slightly dilutive to the adjusted earnings per share of Fiserv in 2020.

08:35 EST Turtle Beach partnering with FIFA champion gamer Mossad Aldossary. - Turtle Beach announced a new partnership with FIFA champion gamer Mossad Aldossary. The Saudi Arabian FIFA pro won both the 2018 FIFA eWorld Cup final and was named 2018 Esports Player of the Year as well as being the only player in history to have won back-to-back Xbox World Championships in FIFA's history. As well as using Turtle Beach's range of gaming headsets, Aldossary will collaborate on a variety of projects with other Turtle Beach partners and ambassadors.

08:34 EST AGF Management reports November AUM of $38.8B

08:32 EST Nemaura Medical launches digital health offering BEAT Diabetes - Nemaura Medical announced that it has expanded its SugarBEAT CGM capabilities by launching a new digital health offering, BEAT Diabetes, which focuses on the prevention and reversal of Type II diabetes through a range of holistic app and coaching services encouraging behavioural change. Combining apps and coaching for patients has been independently and clinically proven to enhance the impact of diabetes management. The full range of services within the BEAT(R) Diabetes offering, which will be available under a variety of subscription packages, will include an app to track and provide personal lifestyle recommendations to patients according to their blood glucose levels, one-on-one coaching, and routine measurement of other parameters that allow improved disease management through early monitoring. BEAT Diabetes will track the user's blood glucose trends and provide information about how their condition is being affected by individual lifestyle factors. SugarBEAT is a non-invasive daily-use CGM device, with CE mark approval in Europe, which sits on top of the skin and transmits glucose readings at five minute intervals to a phone app . The flexibility afforded by a daily use wear time allows users to selectively utilize SugarBEAT on days they prefer. This compares to conventional CGM technologies that require penetration of the skin and extended continuous day usage for periods between 10-14 days, which significantly limits the potential user population. By combining glucose readings and daily glucose trend data provided by SugarBEAT with digital coaching and support services provided by BEAT Diabetes, users will be better able to achieve lifestyle changes to potentially prevent or reverse type II diabetes. Additionally, insulin users who do not currently use any CGMs have a non-invasive flexible CGM alternative, which can empower them with glucose profile data on days of their choosing, to improve management of their glucose fluctuations and allow insulin dose adjustment using confirmatory finger stick readings.

08:29 EST Fox Corp. removed from Gambling Business Activity Exclusion List - Fox Corporation announced that FTSE Russell removed the company's common stock from its Gambling Business Activity Exclusion List. FTSE Russell's correction followed a challenge by the company and a review that determined Fox's level of involvement in the betting industry falls below the equity ownership threshold for classification on the Gambling Business Activity Exclusion List. Fox challenged the classification earlier this year when it caused the Company's stock to be removed from Vanguard ESG funds created to invest in companies with strong environmental, social and governance records.

08:21 EST Enphase Energy says Energized AC Modules reach over 700 solar installers - Enphase Energy announced that more than 700 solar installation companies in the U.S. have leveraged Enphase Energized AC Module. Enphase Energized AC Modules, first released in October 2017, are factory-assembled, tested, and sold by Enphase ACM partners, including SunPower, Panasonic, and Solaria. Enphase Energized AC Modules are built by strategic module partners who integrate Enphase microinverters with PV modules on the manufacturing line. ACMs are tested for performance, reliability and quality right on the manufacturing line and allow solar installers to offer premium solutions to homeowners. Enphase Energized AC Modules also help reduce the design complexities associated with high-power modules and provide an ideal combination of high-efficiency modules paired with the most optimal microinverter. When compared to solar installations using combinations of discrete Enphase microinverters and solar modules, ACMs result in a 10-20% reduction in logistics and supply chain overhead, and a 20-40% reduction in system installation time, especially for high-power systems.

08:19 EST Rhythm completes enrollment of cohort in Phase 3 trial of setmelanotide - Rhythm Pharmaceuticals announced it completed enrollment of the pivotal cohort in its Phase 3 clinical trial evaluating setmelanotide for the treatment of insatiable hunger and severe obesity in individuals living with Bardet-Biedl syndrome or Alstrom syndrome. The Company enrolled 32 individuals with BBS and six individuals with Alstrom syndrome in the pivotal cohort, and it will continue to enroll patients in a supplemental cohort to meet demand and provide further data on the use of setmelanotide in people living with these conditions. "With no approved treatment options available, there is a pressing need for a new therapy that addresses the insatiable hunger and severe obesity that people living with BBS or Alstrom syndrome may experience," said CMO Murray Stewart. "We believe the significant demand among patients, families, caregivers and healthcare providers in the BBS community reflects this need for a therapy to address these conditions. We look forward to continuing to partner with the BBS and Alstrom syndrome communities as we work to identify patients, better understand the long-term burden of these disorders and advance this pivotal trial toward topline data in the fourth quarter of 2020 or early in the first quarter of 2021."

08:16 EST Tabula Rasa HealthCare announces partnership with Hudson Headwaters Health - Tabula Rasa HealthCare announces a partnership with Hudson Headwaters Health Network, a Queensbury, NY-based nonprofit that operates 19 health centers in northern New York state. Beginning in January 2020, Hudson Headwaters pharmacists will license the MedWise technology to identify patients at high risk for medication-related problems and complete Medication Safety Reviews. Currently there are more than 1,000 FQHCs across the United States, serving 28 million patients, regardless of their ability to pay. According to the Health Resources and Services Administration, FQHC's serve 1 in 12 people across the country.

08:14 EST Revance announces publication of data from SAKURA 1, SAKURA 2 studies - Revance announced the publication of the pooled data from two multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled Phase 3 studies evaluating Revance's long-acting neuromodulator product, DaxibotulinumtoxinA for Injection, or DAXI, for the treatment of moderate to severe glabellar lines. The pooled results were published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, or JAAD. The SAKURA 1 and SAKURA 2 studies were identical in design and evaluated the safety and efficacy of a single administration of DAXI. The data showed that the primary endpoint of a two-point composite response at week 4 was achieved in 73.8% of patients in the pooled DAXI group versus 0.5% in the pooled placebo group. The proportion of responders to DAXI was similar regardless of whether baseline glabellar line severity had been moderate or severe. The pooled results were consistent with the findings from the earlier dose-ranging Phase 2 BELMONT study which demonstrated that DAXI for injection offers high response rates in the treatment of glabellar lines with a median duration of response of 24 weeks. Among 609 subjects enrolled in both SAKURA 1 and SAKURA 2, pooled data showed DAXI was significantly more effective than placebo in reducing glabellar line severity and subjects maintained none or mild glabellar line severity for a median of 24 weeks. DAXI was also generally well tolerated and no new safety signals were observed.

08:12 EST SemGroup trading halted, news dissemination

08:10 EST IMAC to implement new patient wellness plan - IMAC Holdings announced it will be implementing new wellness maintenance programs on a subscription basis for all current and future visitors to its Regenerative Medicine Treatment Centers. These subscriptions will become available on January 1, 2020 and the company expects patients to begin to use their benefits January 2. The company will offer three membership plans. The Flex Plan will require a $10 membership fee and $50 monthly fee which will include a consultation from a company medical practitioner and will offer members four chiropractic adjustments per month. The Plus Plan consists of a $50 membership fee and a $95 monthly fee for all Flex Plan benefits, four decompression visits per month, and one platelet-rich plasma treatment per year. Finally, the Regen Plan, which requires a $100 membership fee and a $300 monthly fee, will include one yearly medical evaluation and one yearly cellular therapy treatment, two platelet rich plasma treatments per year, and access to a 20% discount on additional proprietary regenerative medicine treatments found at the IMAC centers.

08:10 EST Limoneira, Lemonade Day establish two-year charitable licensing agreement - Lemonade Day and Limoneira have established a two-year charitable licensing agreement designed to support Lemonade Day in advancing its mission to equip kids with business and character building skills that will prepare them for life. The agreement was completed in September and coincided with the launch of the Lemonade Day 2020 season. Lemonade Day is a national youth entrepreneurship program that teaches kids how to launch their own lemonade business. One of the commitments from Limoneira through this partnership is sponsorship of the LemonMobile. Limoneira plans to convert a school bus that will be driven to key promotional markets from coast to coast. The LemonMobile will be available to help kids and their mentors learn about the Lemonade Day program, the health benefits of lemons and how to make their own "healthy stand" lemonade. This lemon-themed bus will also deliver lemons to food deserts and other underserved communities. In alignment with the partnership agreement, Limoneira will serve as presenting sponsor and fund the prizes for Lemonade Day's National Youth Entrepreneur of the Year. Limoneira will also provide additional benefits that include, but are not limited to, the following: delivery of in-kind product to Lemonade Day cities, development and co-branding of Limoneira lemonade recipe, working with Lemonade Day executives to encourage legislators to loosen permitting requirements and reduce or eliminate fees for temporary food businesses operated by children under 18 years old, encouraging its retailers to allow Lemonade Day participants to set up their stands inside or outside their stores and coordinating and maximizing collaborative advertising and promotional opportunities.

08:07 EST Exela Technologies appoints J. Coley Clark to board of directors - Exela Technologies (XELA) announced that effective December 2, 2019, J. Coley Clark was appointed to Exela's board of directors. Clark currently serves on the board of directors of Moneygram International, (MGI) and is the retired CEO and Chairman of the Board of BancTec.

08:07 EST Kinder Morgan announces preliminary 2020 financial projections - Kinder Morgan announced its preliminary financial projections for 2020. The company expects to generate $2.24 of DCF per share, up 3% compared to current forecast for 2019, and $7.6B of Adjusted EBITDA. KMI expects to increase the declared dividend per common share in 2020 to $1.25 per share annualized, beginning with 31.25c per share for Q1 dividend. This will be a 25% increase from the 2019 dividend and a 150% increase from the 2017 dividend. Kinder Morgan wants to invest $2.4B in expansion projects and contributions to joint ventures in 2020. KMI expects to use internally generated cash flow to fully fund its 2020 dividend payment, as well as almost all of its 2020 discretionary spending with no need to access equity markets. KMI's expectations assume the average annual prices for West Texas Intermediate, or WTI, crude oil and Henry Hub natural gas of $55.00 per barrel and $2.50 per MMBtu, respectively. This is consistent with the forward pricing at the time of the budget process. The vast majority of cash generated by KMI is fee-based and therefore not directly exposed to commodity prices. The primary area where KMI has commodity price sensitivity is in its CO2 segment, where KMI hedges the majority of its next 12 months of oil production to minimize this sensitivity. For 2020, the company estimates that every $1 per barrel change in the average WTI crude oil price impacts DCF by approximately $7M , and each 10c per MMBtu change in the price of natural gas impacts DCF by approximately $1M. The KMI board of directors will review the 2020 budget for approval at its January board meeting and management will discuss the budget in detail during the company's annual investor conference on January 29, 2020.

08:05 EST Xebec Adsorption signs LOI with Maas Energy Works for five RNG systems - Xebec Adsorption announced that it signed a letter of intent on December 4th, 2019, with Maas Energy Works for five Renewable Natural Gas systems. Four of these systems will use Xebec's innovative small-scale containerized Biostream upgrading solution. The Biostream units are fully containerized and automated systems with a 62 to 280 SCFM capacity to convert biogas into 98+% pure biomethane, with 99+% methane recovery. The system is flexible and reliable with a 40 to 100% turn-down. One of the system options includes an integrated CNG Fuel Dispenser. Xebec will supply dairy farmers with an initial four Biostream container systems, each with a 280 SCFM capacity. With additional included options, they could produce more than 80 million standard cubic feet of pure biomethane annually. This renewable natural gas will be injected into the California gas grid, significantly reducing the State's carbon footprint while providing a substantial revenue stream for the farmers who proudly support climate change action. As part of the LOI, Xebec will also supply another, more substantial unit with a 1500 SCFM capacity for a site located in the Western region of the United States. Project delivery dates are throughout 2020.

08:02 EST Dynavax, Albertsons partner to offer HEPLISAV-B vaccine to patients nationally - Dynavax Technologies Corporation and Albertsons Companies have partnered to provide HEPLISAV-B at Albertsons Companies' more than 1,700 pharmacies nationwide, with a special focus on people living with diabetes. Through this partnership, patients will have access to HEPLISAV-B, the only FDA-approved two-dose hepatitis B vaccine for adults that is completed in one month. HEPLISAV-B is indicated for prevention of infection caused by all known subtypes of hepatitis B virus in adults age 18 years and older. No appointment is necessary to receive the HEPLISAV-B vaccination at Albertsons Companies' pharmacies during normal business hours. Hepatitis B vaccine and other vaccines, as permitted per state law, can be administered on a "walk-in" basis and are offered at more than 1,700 Albertsons Companies' pharmacy locations, including those in Albertsons, Safeway, Vons, Jewel-Osco, Shaw's, Acme, Tom Thumb, Randalls, Pavilions, Star Market, Haggen, and Carrs stores. Private insurers, Medicare and Medicaid are required to cover preventative HBV testing and vaccines usually without a deductible or co-pay. Payer coverage for HEPLISAV-B has been established for 100% of Medicare lives, more than 95% of Commercial lives, and 90% of Medicaid fee-for-service lives.

08:01 EST Analog Devices files patent infringement lawsuit against Xilinx - Analog Devices (ADI) announced that it has filed a patent infringement lawsuit against Xilinx (XLNX). The lawsuit focuses on the unauthorized use by Xilinx of several important ADI patents relating to converter technology in at least two of Xilinx's High End Zynq UltraScale+ RFSoC products. The lawsuit, filed in the United States District Court for the District of Delaware, seeks damages and an injunction that prevents Xilinx from selling any products that infringe ADI's patents.

07:39 EST Tractor Supply appoints Hal Lawton to succeed Greg Sandfort as CEO - Tractor Supply Company (TSCO) announced that its Board of Directors has named Hal Lawton as its President, CEO and a member of the Board of Directors, effective January 13, 2020. Lawton, who is currently President of Macy's (M), will succeed Tractor Supply's CEO Greg Sandfort, who previously announced his intent to retire. Sandfort will remain with the Company through February 29, 2020, and then serve as advisor until August 31, 2020, to ensure a seamless transition. He will serve out his term on the Board until May 7, 2020.

07:37 EST Apollo Global appoints Tetsuji Okamoto as partner, head of Japan - Apollo Global Management announced the appointment of Tetsuji Okamoto as a Partner, Head of Japan, leading Apollo Private Equity's efforts in Japan. Okamoto will play a lead role in building Apollo's Private Equity business in Japan, including originating and executing deals and identifying cross-platform opportunities. He will report to Steve Martinez, Senior Partner, Head of Asia Pacific, and will begin in this newly created role on December 9, 2019. Most recently, Mr. Okamoto was a Managing Director at Bain Capital, where he was a member of the Asia Pacific Private Equity team for eleven years.

07:34 EST Edwards Lifesciences says 2020 R&D planned at 17%-18% of sales - Says Global transcatheter valve therapy opportunities projected to reach $10B+ by 2024. The company plans to discuss strategy for longer-term growth, provide an update on its technology pipeline and share its financial guidance during its annual investor conference in New York City on December 5.

07:32 EST MetLife to acquire PetFirst Healthcare - MetLife and PetFirst Healthcare announced they have entered into a definitive agreement under which MetLife will acquire PetFirst. Following the acquisition, PetFirst will continue to market pet insurance through animal welfare societies and its direct-to-consumer channel. Beginning in the summer of 2020, MetLife will offer this pet insurance to employers through its leading group benefits distribution channel, reaching approximately 41 million employees and dependents across the U.S. The deal is expected to close in the first quarter of 2020 subject to customary closing conditions and approvals.

07:29 EST Fastenal reports November sales up 0.7% to $413.08M - Fastenal reports November net sales of $413.077M, up 0.7% compared to the same month of 2018. Reports November daily sales of $20.65M, up 5.7% year-over-year. Reference Link

07:18 EST Dollar General up 4.7% after Q3 results beat estimates, FY19 guidance raised - In pre-market trading, shares are up 4.7% to $160.74.

07:17 EST GW Pharmaceuticals, Greenwich Biosciences to present data on EPIDIOLEX - GW Pharmaceuticals, along with U.S. subsidiary Greenwich Biosciences, announced that a variety of data, including results from completed Phase 3 trials of EPIDIOLEX oral solution CV, will be presented at the American Epilepsy Society Annual Meeting, December 6-10, in Baltimore. EPIDIOLEX is approved in the U.S. for the treatment of seizures associated with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome or Dravet syndrome. It is also approved in Europe, in conjunction with clobazam, for seizures associated with both conditions under the brand name EPIDYOLEX. It is available by prescription for patients two years of age and older. New data from the Phase 3 study of EPIDIOLEX in patients with tuberous sclerosis complex will be presented for the first time at the meeting, along with 3-year safety and efficacy results from an open-label extension study in patients with LGS and Dravet syndrome. GW/Greenwich will host commercial and medical booths as well as a scientific exhibit where AES attendees can learn more about EPIDIOLEX. The Company will also host an Innovation Pavilion where attendees can discover the stories of those treated with EPIDIOLEX; hear about the journey of the only CBD product approved by the FDA; and attend an interactive expert-panel discussion on managing patients on EPIDIOLEX. "We are excited to share our latest data for EPIDIOLEX at AES. This is the first time Phase 3 results in TSC will be presented to the epilepsy medical community, along with updated long-term safety and efficacy results in LGS and Dravet syndrome," said Justin Gover, GW's CEO "This has been an exciting first year, with over 15,000 patients treated with EPIDIOLEX, the only FDA-approved cannabidiol and the first in a new class of antiepileptic drugs. Our goal is to expand the EPIDIOLEX product label in 2020 to include seizures associated with TSC. Given that the majority of these patients have treatment-resistant epilepsy, we believe there is a need for promising new treatment options."

07:16 EST Interpace Biosciences expands partnership with Genecast Biotechnology in China - Interpace Bioscience's subsidiary Interpace Pharma Solutions is continuing to expand a previous partnership agreement to jointly develop, promote and offer translational studies and clinical trial solutions to biotech and pharmaceutical companies with Genecast - Beijing - Biotechnology of the Peoples Republic of China. Genecast offers diagnostic products and services in the field of oncology and providing a wide range of diagnostic services to pharmaceutical and biotech companies in the PRC. Interpace is sending members of its technical/scientific and business development teams to China this week to begin the tech transfer requirements to support over $3M of recently secured new business with global pharmaceutical companies.

07:14 EST DHX Media to voluntarily delist from NASDAQ - DHX Media has notified NASDAQ of its intention to voluntarily delist its common voting shares and variable voting shares from NASDAQ. WildBrain's shares will continue to trade on TSX. With the majority of its Shares trading on the TSX, WildBrain believes the costs and administrative requirements associated with maintaining a dual listing are not justified at this time. The decision to delist from NASDAQ is consistent with the company's previously announced cost saving efforts with a portion of these savings to be redeployed for investing in growth areas of the business. WildBrain expects that its shares will cease trading on NASDAQ on or about December 24. Following its delisting from NASDAQ, the company intends to voluntarily deregister its shares in the U.S. and cease its public reporting obligations with the SEC. The company's Form 40-F for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2019 is expected to be its last publicly filed report with the SEC.

07:13 EST ViiV Healthcare submits NDA to FDA for fostemsavir - ViiV Healthcare, a company majority owned by GSK (GSK) with Pfizer (PFE) and Shionogi Limited as shareholders, completed submission of a New Drug Application, or NDA, to the FDA seeking approval of fostemsavir, an investigational, first-in-class attachment inhibitor for the treatment of HIV-1 infection. Fostemsavir is being developed for use in combination with other antiretroviral agents in heavily treatment-experienced adults with multidrug-resistant HIV-1 infection who are unable to form a suppressive regimen due to resistance, intolerance or safety considerations.

07:11 EST Sage Therapeutics down 56% after Sage-217 fails to meet endpoint in Phase 3 - In pre-market trading, shares are down 56.44% to $65.00.

07:10 EST Sage Therapeutics sinks over 50% after Phase 3 depression failure - Shares of Sage Therapeutics are losing more than half their value after the company said its Phase 3 Study evaluating the effect of SAGE-217 on depressive symptoms in adults with major depressive disorder did not meet its primary endpoint of a statistically significant reduction from baseline compared to placebo in the 17-item Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression total score at day 15. SAGE-217 was associated with a mean reduction of 12.6 in HAM-D total score compared to 11.2 for placebo. The SAGE-217 development program includes five other pivotal studies, one in major depressive disorder and one in postpartum depression, and three of which are ongoing. "This study did not meet the primary endpoint. With that, the data are supportive of the activity of SAGE-217 in MDD given the statistical significance at the majority of timepoints, and in relevant populations," said Jeff Jonas, CEO at Sage. "Notwithstanding the finding on the primary endpoint, the drug displays good activity on most measures. We understand that drug development is an iterative process. In this study, we've gathered new data on SAGE-217, data we believe support our hypothesis that SAGE-217 has a unique profile with the potential for rapid and robust onset with durable effect." Shares of Sage Therapeutics are down 55%, or $82.21, to $67.00 in premarket trading.

07:09 EST Nemaska Lithium announces court order for interim distribution of bonds - Nemaska Lithium informs the market that the Superior Court of Quebec has ordered the Corporation and the Nordic Trustee of the $350M nominal amount of the Senior Secured Bonds issued pursuant to the bond offering announced on May 10, 2018 to cooperate so as to cause the escrow manager of the Bonds to distribute to Bondholders from the amounts held in the escrow account the $350M nominal amount. The distribution to Bondholders is expected to occur within 15 business days of November 27, 2019 and shall be made in accordance with the Bond Terms and without prejudice to any right of the Bond Trustee under the Bond Terms to withhold funds from, and previously to, such distribution to cover fees, costs, expenses, indemnity or any other amount payable to the Nordic Trustee under the Bond Terms, as the case may be. In connection with the Court Order, it was also agreed to cause the principal amount of the claim under the Bond Terms that is secured on a first-ranking basis to be reduced from $350M to $100M. The Court Order has been issued further to the Corporation's application filed on September 16, 2019 with the Superior Court of Quebec, in connection with its arrangement proceedings under the Canada Business Corporations Act, which seeks the discharge of the security which secured the Bonds. The hearing of such application is set for January 2020, in Montreal. It is the Corporation's view that the Bonds were discharged. The Nordic Trustee considers that the Bonds were not discharged, and that the Corporation owes penalties to Bondholders.

07:07 EST Tiffany CEO says 'our underlying business remains healthy' - Alessandro Bogliolo, CEO, said, "Our underlying business remains healthy with sales attributed to local customers on a global basis growing in the third quarter, led by strong double-digit growth in the Chinese Mainland offset in part by softness in domestic sales in the Americas. We are continuing to amplify the Brand with the recent colorful extension of Tiffany T, the launch of the men's collection, the unveiling of the Tiffany & Love fragrance pillars and our 'Very, Very Tiffany Holiday campaign.'" Bogliolo concluded, "We are very excited about the recently announced transaction with LVMH and, pending the required approvals, look forward to becoming part of the LVMH family of exceptional luxury brands."

07:07 EST Michaels down 2.8% after reporting Q3 results, cutting guidance

07:05 EST Dollar General sees FY19 share repurchases approximately $1.2B - Prior view was approximately $1B.

07:04 EST Dollar General reports total merchandise inventories $4.5B at November 1 - As of November 1, total merchandise inventories, at cost, were $4.5B compared to $4B as of November 2, 2018, an increase of approximately 6.9% on a per-store basis.

07:02 EST Cato Corp. reports November SSS up 2% - The Cato Corporation reported sales for the four weeks ended November 30 of $59M, down 1% compared to sales of $59.4M for the four week period ended December 1, 2018. Same-store sales for the month increased 2%. Sales for the forty-three weeks ended November 30, 2019 were $686.8M, flat compared to sales of $690.2M for the forty-three weeks ended December 1, 2018. The company's year-to-date same-store sales increased 2%. "November same-store sales continue our current trend," commented John Cato, Chairman, President, and CEO. "We remain cautiously optimistic about the rest of the year as we consider the impact of current and future tariffs."

06:59 EST Dollar General sees 1,000 new store openings in FY20 - For the 52-week fiscal year ending January 29, 2021, the company plans to execute nearly 2,600 real estate projects, including 1,000 new store openings, 1,500 mature store remodels, and 80 store relocations.

06:56 EST Dollar General raises share repurchase authorization by $1B

06:52 EST The Buckle reports November SSS down 1.6% - The Buckle announced that comparable store net sales, for stores open at least one year, for the 4-week period ended November 30, decreased 1.6% from comparable store net sales for the 4-week period ended December 1, 2018. Net sales for the 4-week fiscal month ended November 30, 2019 decreased 1.8% to $79.8M from net sales of $81.3M for the prior year 4-week fiscal month ended December 1, 2018. Due to the later Thanksgiving holiday this year, Cyber Monday shifted from fiscal November in 2018 to fiscal December in 2019. The reduction in online sales for the fiscal month due to this shift negatively impacted both total and comparable store net sales. Excluding online sales, brick and mortar comparable store net sales for the 4-week period ended November 30, increased 2.4% from brick and mortar comparable store net sales for the 4-week period ended December 1, 2018.

06:47 EST J.Jill CEO Linda Heasley steps down, Jim Scully appointed Interim CEO - J.Jill appointed James Scully, who currently serves as a member of the Board of Directors, as Interim CEO, effective immediately. Linda Heasley has stepped down as President, CEO and a member of the Board. The Board has begun a search process and Scully will serve as Interim CEO until the Board has identified a replacement. Scully has served on the Board of Directors since August 2017. Scully previously served as Executive VP and COO of Avon Products. Prior to his role at Avon Products, Scully served as COO of J. Crew Group.

06:39 EST Sage Therapeutics' Sage-217 fails to meet endpoint in Phase 3 depression study - Sage Therapeutics reported topline results from the pivotal Phase 3 Mountain Study evaluating the effect of Sage-217 on depressive symptoms in adults with major depressive disorder or MDD. The Mountain Study did not meet its primary endpoint of a statistically significant reduction from baseline compared to placebo in the 17-item Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression total score at Day 15. Sage-217 was associated with a mean reduction of 12.6 in HAM-D total score compared to 11.2 for placebo. Patients in the SAGE-217 30 mg group achieved statistically significant reductions in the HAM-D total score at Days 3, 8 and 12. The Sage-217 development program includes five other pivotal studies, two of which have reported positive data, one in MDD and one in postpartum depression, and three of which are ongoing. Post-hoc analysis revealed that in the Mountain Study, approximately 9% of patients in the SAGE-217 30 mg group had no measurable drug concentration, consistent with non-compliance in taking SAGE-217. Excluding these patients from the primary analysis set resulted in statistical significance at all timepoints through, and including, Day 15. The study enrolled more patients with an overall distribution of milder severity of symptoms than previous studies of SAGE-217. When including only patients with a HAM-D greater than 24, a post-hoc analysis demonstrated statistical significance at all timepoints through, and including, Day 15. SAGE-217 was generally well-tolerated and showed a similar safety profile as seen in earlier studies. Overall reports of adverse events were similar between SAGE-217 and placebo. Improvements in depressive symptoms were sustained in all treatment groups through Day 42 of the double-blind portion of the study. Preliminary data suggest maintenance of improvement in depressive symptoms in those patients who have completed long-term follow-up up to 6 months. These data will continue to be collected in the coming months. The 20 mg dose of SAGE-217 did not separate from placebo in this dose-ranging study.

06:35 EST Regis sells 121 salons to Yellowhammer Salon Group - Regis announced the sale of 121 salons to the Yellowhammer Salon Group.

06:33 EST ChromaDex, Matakana expand retail partnership in Australia, New Zealand - ChromaDex announced the expansion of its partnership with Matakana Health until early 2023, which will now include Australia in its territory. On Monday, ChromaDex announced the receipt of approval of nicotinamide riboside chloride as an ingredient in listed Complementary Medicines from the Australian Therapeutic Goods Administration. MHL is an established dietary supplement manufacturer and distributor in New Zealand with national and Australian distribution in both online and offline channels. The company has more than 90 lines of organic and superfood products.

06:09 EST BP increases stake in Lightsource BP to 50% from 43% - The management of Lightsource BP and BP have agreed to equalize their shareholdings in Lightsource BP to create a simplified 50:50 joint venture structure. As part of the transaction, BP said in a statement that it will purchase newly-issued equity in the business to help accelerate Lightsource BP's growth, supporting its drive towards 10GW of developed assets by the end of 2023. In December 2017, BP acquired 43% of Lightsource which was subsequently rebranded to Lightsource BP. Today, BP has agreed to purchase additional equity in Lightsource BP to become an equal partner in the business with the balance of shares continuing to be held by management and staff. Since new shares will be issued in this transaction, the funds paid by BP to increase its stake will be immediately available to Lightsource BP for investment. Financial details of the transaction are not being released. Strategic decisions will continue to be taken jointly by the two shareholder groups, with each group now having an equal number of nominees on the Lightsource BP Board. Reference Link

06:04 EST Algernon's NP-120 shows 'dramatic superiority' over Merck's Gefapixant in study - Algernon Pharmaceuticals is pleased to announce that NP-120 (Ifenprodil), its repurposed lead candidate for the treatment of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, showed dramatic superiority over Gefapixant, Merck's lead phase 3 trial drug, in a well accepted acute cough in-vivo animal study. Pharmidex, a contract research organization and a global leader in respiratory research, conducted the in-vivo cough study using the guinea pig citric acid challenge model. Data from this recent study demonstrated that at clinically relevant doses: Ifenprodil (1.5 mg/kg) showed a reduction of 42% in mean cough frequency vs untreated control. Gefapixant (3.5 mg/kg) showed a 20% reduction in mean cough frequency vs untreated control. Ifenprodil (59.8 seconds) and Gefapixant (49.7 seconds) both showed a non-statistically significant delay in the onset of the first cough when compared to control (34.2 seconds).

05:14 EST Nano Dimension appoints Yoav Stern as CEO - Nano Dimension announced the appointment of veteran turnaround executive, Yoav Stern as President and CEO, effective January 2, 2020. He will be succeeding the co-founder and current CEO Amit Dror, who is taking the executive role of Customer Success Officer reporting directly to Stern. Dror will also continue to serve as a director on the company's board.