Stockwinners Market Radar for December 14, 2023 - Earnings, Upgrades downgrades, option trades, Best Stock Advisory Service

20:02 EST Trupanion, Aflac to withdraw from development in Japan - Aflac (AFL) and Trupanion (TRUP) confirmed a commitment to a strategic alliance in North America: "Since the establishment of a strategic business alliance in November 2020, Aflac Incorporated and Trupanion have shared a common belief that employers should consider a package of benefits for their employees to address the increasing number of consumers whose pets are a vital part of their families. Our collaboration addresses the growing need for solutions that help pet owners manage rising veterinary care costs. Together, we have launched a suite of high-quality pet medical insurance products available at U.S. worksites. After testing this alignment in Japan, a key market for Aflac, a decision was made to withdraw from development in Japan, and instead the companies are focusing on the larger, underpenetrated North American pet insurance market. Aflac Incorporated's $200 million investment in Trupanion and our distribution alliance underscores our mutual commitment to unlock the significant, long-term potential of this category and our belief in the products offered by Trupanion, the largest provider of pet medical insurance in North America. Our corporate worksite solution addresses increased interest to provide employees with comprehensive benefits for their pets, just as Aflac has helped provide financial protection for policyholders for nearly seven decades."

19:50 EST Hub Cyber Security Ltd trading halted, news pending

19:01 EST FDA approves Merck's Welireg for treatment of patients with advanced RCC - Merck announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved WELIREG, an oral hypoxia-inducible factor-2 alpha inhibitor, for the treatment of adult patients with advanced renal cell carcinoma following a programmed death receptor-1 or programmed death-ligand 1 inhibitor and a vascular endothelial growth factor tyrosine kinase inhibitor. The approval is based on statistically significant and clinically meaningful results from LITESPARK-005, which is the only trial in advanced RCC to specifically evaluate patients who have progressed following a PD-1 or PD-L1 inhibitor and a VEGF-TKI. In the trial, WELIREG demonstrated superior progression-free survival versus everolimus in advanced RCC following treatment with both a PD-1 or PD-L1 checkpoint inhibitor and a VEGF receptor targeted therapy, given in sequence or in combination.

18:58 EST Sony's Naughty Dog stops development of 'The Last of Us Online' - Sony's Naughty Dog, developer of "Uncharted" and "The Last of Us," said that it has made the decision to stop development on "The Last of Us Online." "We know this news will be tough for many, especially our dedicated The Last of Us Factions community, who have been following our multiplayer ambitions ardently," the studio said. "We're equally crushed at the studio as we were looking forward to putting it in your hands. We wanted to share with you some background of how we came to this decision. The multiplayer team has been in pre-production with this game since we were working on The Last of Us Part II - crafting an experience we felt was unique and had tremendous potential. As the multiplayer team iterated on their concept for The Last of Us Online during this time, their vision crystalized, the gameplay got more refined and satisfying, and we were enthusiastic about the direction in which we were headed. In ramping up to full production, the massive scope of our ambition became clear. To release and support The Last of Us Online we'd have to put all our studio resources behind supporting post launch content for years to come, severely impacting development on future single-player games. So, we had two paths in front of us: become a solely live service games studio or continue to focus on single-player narrative games that have defined Naughty Dog's heritage."

18:30 EST Vapotherm announces suspension of NYSE listing, expects to trade on OTCQX - Vapotherm announced it has received notice that the New York Stock Exchange has determined to suspend trading of - and commence proceedings to delist - shares of the company's common stock, effective immediately. This suspension was made because the company fell below the NYSE's continued listing standard requiring listed companies to maintain an average global market capitalization over a consecutive 30 trading day period of at least $15M. Vapotherm anticipates that its common stock will begin trading on the OTCQX Market, the highest market tier operated by OTC Markets Group, on December 15, 2023 under its current symbol "VAPO." Investors are expected to continue to be able to access accurate information, including stock price quotes, and execute trades.

18:22 EST BioMarin CLO Davis sells 13,764 common shares - In a regulatory filing, BioMarin chief legal officer George Eric Davis disclosed the sale of 13,764 common shares of the company on December 13 at a price of $95.30 per share.

18:06 EST BREDS, BREIT, others enter into newly formed JV with FDIC - Blackstone Real Estate Debt Strategies, Blackstone Real Estate Income Trust, Canada Pension Plan Investment Board through its subsidiary CPPIB Credit Investments III Inc., and funds affiliated with Rialto Capital announced that they have entered into a newly formed joint venture with the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation and acquired a 20% equity stake for $1.2B in the venture which holds a $16.8B senior mortgage loan portfolio retained in receivership following the failure of Signature Bank. The FDIC is maintaining an 80% ownership stake in the venture and provided financing equal to 50% of the venture's value. The commercial real estate loan portfolio comprises more than 2,600 first mortgage loans on retail, market rate multifamily and office properties primarily located in the New York metropolitan area. The loans are predominantly performing and encompass a wide range of credit profiles. Approximately 90% of the loans are fixed rate with low in-place coupons and strong in-place debt service coverage.

18:04 EST LG&E reaches new three-year contract with local IBEW - Louisville Gas and Electric Company, a subsidiary of PPL Corporation, has announced it reached a new three-year contract agreement with International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 2100, which currently represents more than 600 employees. "We are proud of the historical relationship between our unions and company leadership - a positive partnership which spans more than four decades. This contract is the result of our ongoing collaborative efforts," said LG&E President John R. Crockett III. "We value each of our employees and their dedication to serving our customers. I am pleased that company and union leaders worked together in the best interests of our employees and our customers. We look forward to continuing our shared commitment to provide safe, reliable and affordable energy to customers and communities across our service territories." The agreement, which is currently in effect through Oct. 1, 2026, includes 3% annual wage increases in each year of the contract for all employees represented by IBEW 2100.

17:28 EST Costco sees FY24 capital expenditures $4.4B-$4.6B - Says shopping frequency improved 4.7% world wide. Says in three days leading up Thanksgiving sold 2.9M pumpkin pies and 1.3M apple and pecan pies in the U.S. Says membership growth continues. Says Costco Logistics enjoyed record breaking deliveries. Says sold over $100M of gold in the quarter. Says total app downloads are at 30.5M. Says inflation for quarter just ended was in 0%-1% range. Says Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales were a little better than expected. Comments taken from Q1 earnings conference call.

17:03 EST Nebraska Department of Insurance approves acquisition for Midwest Holding - Midwest Holding announced receipt of approval from the Nebraska Department of Insurance for the acquisition of Midwest by an affiliate of Antarctica. The transaction is expected to close on or about December 20. Pursuant to the terms of the transaction, Midwest shareholders will receive $27.00 in cash per share of common stock they own immediately prior to the completion of the transaction. With the completion of the transaction, Midwest shares will cease trading and no longer be listed on the Nasdaq.

17:00 EST RTX names Christopher Calio to succeed Gregory Hayes as CEO - RTX announced that President and Chief Operating Officer Christopher T. Calio will succeed Gregory J. Hayes as chief executive officer at the 2024 RTX Annual Shareowners Meeting scheduled for May 2. Hayes will continue to serve as executive chairman of RTX. Calio was also appointed to the company's board of directors effective today. "Today's announcement reflects the Board's deliberate, disciplined succession planning process," said chairman and CEO Greg Hayes. "Chris has a deep understanding of the industry, our customers' needs and our operations. I have every confidence in his ability to lead RTX and drive the company's long-term success."

16:43 EST Edison International raises common stock dividend 5.8% to 78c per share - Edison International declared a quarterly common stock dividend of 78c per share, payable on Jan. 31, 2024, to shareholders of record on Dec. 29, 2023. This action increases the annual dividend by 17c per share. The 2024 annual dividend rate will be $3.12 per share, an increase of 5.8% from the current annual dividend rate of $2.95 per share. Additionally, Southern California Edison today declared a semiannual dividend of $25.1409 per share on the Series E preference stock, payable on Feb. 1, 2024, to shareholders of record on Jan. 5, 2024.

16:39 EST Lennar expects to deliver 16,500-17,000 homes in Q1 - Sees Q1 new orders 17,500-18,000; Average sales price about $420,000; Gross margin % on home sales 21%-21.25%.

16:37 EST ATN International expands stock buyback to $25M, boosts dividend by 14% - ATN International announced that the company's Board of Directors has authorized the expansion of the share repurchase program to $25M of common stock and approved a quarterly dividend increase of 14% to 24c from 21c per share. The quarterly dividend will be payable on January 5, 2024, on all common shares outstanding to stockholders of record as of December 31, 2023. "As we approach 2024, we are moving into the final and smallest phase of ATN's three-year infrastructure expansion plan, positioning us to increase direct capital returns to shareholders," said Michael Prior, ATN's Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. "The Board's decision to expand the share repurchase plan and increase our quarterly dividend reflects their continued confidence in our ability to execute our strategic plan that has produced strong and reliable operating cash flows, sustainable growth across our markets, and a healthy balance sheet. Going forward, we remain committed to a balanced capital allocation strategy. This includes seeking the highest total return opportunities for shareholders across acquisitions, internal investments, share repurchases and dividends, while remaining prudent in how we manage our net debt position."

16:35 EST Wendy's elects Wendy Arlin to Board - Wendy's increased the size of the Board from 12 to 13 members and elected Wendy Arlin to serve as an independent director of the company, effective immediately. In addition, Joseph Levato has notified the Board that he intends to retire from the Board and not stand for re-election at Wendy's 2024 Annual Meeting of Shareholders. Following Levato's retirement at the Annual Meeting, the size of the Board will be reduced to 12 directors. From August 2021 through July 2023, Arlin served as Executive VP and CFO of Bath & Body Works, a home fragrance, body care and soaps and sanitizer products retailer. Prior to her role as CFO of BBWI and prior to the spin-off of BBWI, Arlin served as Senior VP, Finance and Corporate Controller of L Brands.prior to joining L Brands, she spent 12 years at KPMG in the audit practice and ultimately held the position of partner in charge of the central Ohio consumer and industrial/information, communications and entertainment business practices.

16:34 EST Air Lease announces delivery of Airbus A321-200neo, Airbus A330-900neo jets - Air Lease Corporation (AL) announced two new Airbus (EADSY) aircraft delivered to Sunclass Airlines of Denmark, including one new A321-200neo and one new A330-900neo. Both aircraft delivered to Sunclass Airlines this December on long-term lease from ALC's order book with Airbus. "We are pleased to announce the first of two A321-200neos and the first of three A330-900neos delivered to Sunclass Airlines," said Steven Udvar-Hazy, Executive Chairman of Air Lease Corporation. "With these new ALC aircraft, Sunclass will continue to progress its fleet modernization program adding new generation widebodies and narrowbodies that offer the most advanced technology and efficiency."

16:31 EST Mettler-Toledo announces upcoming retirement of board chair Spoerry - Mettler-Toledo announced that Robert F. Spoerry will retire and not stand for re-election to the Board of Directors at the annual meeting of shareholders on May 9th, 2024. Mr. Spoerry served Mettler-Toledo for 40 years, including as the CEO from 1993 until 2007, and Chair of the Board of Directors since 1998, shortly after its IPO. Roland Diggelmann, an Independent Director of the Board, will be nominated to replace Mr. Spoerry as Chair of the Board of Directors in May 2024. Spoerry stated, "It has been a great privilege to have worked with the team at Mettler-Toledo. This is the right time for a transition after enacting a carefully prepared succession and Board refreshment plan over the last few years. I am confident that this unique company is in an excellent position to build on its strong track record by leveraging its customer centric and innovation culture, and relentless drive for continuous improvement."

16:22 EST Aris Water Solutions selected for research grant by Department of Energy - Aris Water Solutions announced that the company was selected by the Department of Energy to receive a research grant related to the treatment and desalination of produced water as an irrigation source for non-consumptive agriculture. Building on Aris's ongoing efforts to further beneficial reuse of treated produced water outside of the oil and gas industry, the grant is recognition of Aris's continued progress in enhancing water sustainability in the Permian Basin. "We are extremely proud to be recognized by the Department of Energy and are grateful for their continued support of our beneficial reuse development efforts," said Amanda Brock, President and CEO of Aris Water. "In addition to the continued success and growth of our core water infrastructure, handling and recycling business in the Permian Basin, we continue to lead collaborative industry efforts to identify and pilot differentiated technologies to treat produced water for various applications including agriculture, mineral extraction, industrial processes and aquifer replenishment. This grant, alongside the continued support of our industry partners and regulators, will help further enhance our treatment capabilities." The grant allows Aris to further expand its successful greenhouse study with Texas A&M AgriLife, which uses treated and desalinated produced water to grow cotton and grasses. In addition to the grant from the DOE, a wide range of partners from academia, agriculture, and the oil and gas industry will contribute to this ongoing study led by Aris. The study is designed to demonstrate and optimize field-scale produced water treatment and desalination which is customized for agricultural irrigation applications.

16:19 EST Nucor increases cash dividend to 54c per share - Nucor increased its regular quarterly cash dividend on Nucor's common stock to 54c per share. This dividend is payable on February 9, 2024 to stockholders of record on December 29, 2023.

16:16 EST MFA Financial names Bryan Doran CAO - MFA Financial announced that it has appointed Bryan Doran to the position of Chief Accounting Officer. In his new role, Doran will work closely with MFA's Chief Financial Officer, Michael Roper, to help oversee financial reporting and other accounting matters at the company. Doran has over 20 years of experience in the real estate industry, and joins MFA from Ernst & Young LLP where he was an audit partner in the Real Estate, Hospitality & Construction practice. "I'm thrilled to welcome Bryan to MFA. His deep expertise in the mortgage REIT sector and his proven leadership will be invaluable to MFA's finance and accounting team, and I look forward to benefiting from his wealth of knowledge and expertise," said Mr. Roper. "We are pleased to add such a seasoned finance and accounting executive to MFA's management team," said Craig L. Knutson, MFA's Chief Executive Officer and President.

16:12 EST Brixmor CFO Angela Aman to step down, Steven Gallagher named interim CFO - Brixmor Property Group (BRX) announced that Angela Aman will step down as the company's President, CFO and Treasurer, effective January 19, 2024, in order to assume the position of CEO of Kilroy Realty Corporation (KRC). Upon Aman's departure, Steven Gallagher, the company's Senior Vice President, Chief Accounting Officer since 2017, will serve as interim CFO while the company evaluates both internal and external candidates.

16:12 EST Aadi Bioscience's nab-sirolimus shows anti-tumor activity in interim trial - Aadi Bioscience reported results from a planned interim analysis on the first third of participants in the ongoing tumor-agnostic PRECISION1 trial evaluating nab-sirolimus in patients with TSC1 or TSC2 inactivating alterations. Full enrollment in the trial is expected by the spring of 2024. Interim analysis includes data from the first third of trial participants with a minimum of 4.5 months of follow-up. Nine different tumor types were enrolled in the TSC1 arm and 13 tumor types were enrolled in the TSC2 arm. Observations included a 26% Overall Response Rate - ORR - including 5 partial responses with 4 confirmed responses and 1 unconfirmed response. All responses were ongoing at the time of data cutoff. 9 patients had stable disease, 3 of which were greater than or equal to six months in duration, resulting in a clinical benefit rate of 42%. Median time to response was 1.4 months. Responses were seen across four different epithelial carcinomas. 60% of responders experienced greater than 50% tumor reduction. In patients with tumors harboring pathogenic inactivating alteration in TSC2, observations included an 11% ORR including 2 PRs with 1 confirmed and 1 uPR; 12 patients had SD, 3 of which were greater than or equal to six months resulting in a clinical benefit rate of 28%; responses were seen in one epithelial carcinoma and one sarcoma. No new safety signals were observed, and no grade four treatment-related events or deaths occurred. 80 patients are currently enrolled in the PRECISION1 trial, supporting the two-thirds interim analysis expected in Q3 2024. The trial is expected to be completed by the end of 2024 with results anticipated in early 2025.

16:11 EST Connection launches Helix Center for Applied AI and Robotics - Connection announced and support designed to help organizations of all sizes realize the benefits of artificial intelligence and automation. Tim McGrath, President and CEO of Connection said, "Artificial intelligence offers a once-in-a-generation opportunity for organizations to achieve rapid productivity and efficiency gains. As a trusted technology provider, it's our job to help customers sort through the noise and adopt new technologies with confidence and clarity. The Helix Center for Applied AI and Robotics provides the guidance, tools, and support customers need to unravel the complexity and confusion around AI-and properly identify, understand, and access its true potential for their unique environments and business needs."

16:09 EST Lincoln National to sell wealth management business to Osaic - Lincoln Financial Group announced that it has signed a stock purchase agreement with Osaic, Inc. (Osaic), one of the nation's largest providers of wealth management solutions, which will acquire Lincoln's wealth management business, including all ownership interests in the Lincoln subsidiary entities comprising that business. The transaction is expected to provide approximately $700 million of capital benefit to Lincoln upon closing, which is anticipated to be used primarily to increase the company's risk-based capital ratio. Lincoln also plans to use a portion of the capital benefit to reduce its leverage ratio. There are no expected material impacts to ongoing free cash flow or earnings as a result of this transaction. The transaction is expected to close in the first half of 2024, subject to customary closing conditions, including regulatory approvals. The transaction will include the sale to Osaic of Lincoln Financial Advisors Corporation (LFA) and Lincoln Financial Securities Corporation (LFS) - the company's two independent broker-dealer and registered investment advisory firms. Together, these entities comprise a national network of approximately 1,450 financial professionals. Additionally, Lincoln's home-office employees who support the wealth management business will transition to Osaic to continue to lead and support the business. Lincoln will retain all aspects of Lincoln Financial Distributors (LFD), its industry-leading wholesale distribution franchise, which drives organic growth across Lincoln's distinct retail product value propositions through a broad distribution network. Lincoln will also retain its channel of independent agents, which will now be part of LFD. Additionally, as part of the transaction, LFD will further expand its strong distribution relationship with Osaic, including the network of financial professionals that will transition as part of this transaction, and Osaic's broader financial professional network.

16:08 EST Kilroy Realty names Angela Aman CEO - Kilroy Realty Corporation announced that its Board of Directors has appointed Angela M. Aman as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and a member of the Board, effective January 22, 2024. Ms. Aman's appointment follows a comprehensive and thorough search process by the Board, with the assistance of Korn Ferry, a global organizational consulting firm. Ms. Aman will succeed John B. Kilroy, Jr., who previously announced his planned retirement and will continue to serve as the Company's CEO until January 21, 2024. In addition, Mr. Kilroy will serve as an advisor to the Company through the end of 2024 in order to ensure a smooth transition of responsibilities, and will remain Chair of the Board through his current term. Ms. Aman is a seasoned real estate executive with more than 22 years of commercial real estate, financial and operational expertise. Ms. Aman currently serves as President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer of Brixmor Property Group, where she joined in 2016 as Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer. Prior to joining Brixmor, Ms. Aman served as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Starwood Retail Partners from 2015 to 2016 and Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer of Retail Properties of America, Inc. from 2011 to 2015. Earlier in her career, Ms. Aman held positions of increasing responsibility at RREEF and Deutsche Bank. Ms. Aman is a member of Nareit, ICSC, and the Urban Land Institute (ULI), and serves on the Board of Trustees of Equity Residential, where she serves as Chair of the Audit Committee. Ms. Aman received a B.S. in Economics from The Wharton School of The University of Pennsylvania.

16:00 EST Innovative International Aqstn Corp trading resumes

15:57 EST Bluebird in deal with group representing 100M covered lives, after FDA approval - Following the FDA approval of LYFGENIA on December 8, for sickle cell disease in patients 12 and older with a history of vaso-occlusive events, bluebird bio has signed an outcomes-based agreement with an organization representing approximately 100M covered lives in the U.S. Additionally, the Company is in advanced discussions with a number of the nation's other large commercial payers and more than 15 Medicaid agencies collectively representing 80% of individuals with sickle cell disease in the U.S. The Company anticipates 85 to 105 patient starts or cell collections, combined across all three of its commercial products:LYFGENIA, ZYNTEGLO, SKYSONA in 2024, Bluebird Bio disclosed in an 8k filing earlier on Thursday.

15:36 EST Overseas Shipholding to invest nearly $100M in Alaskan Class fleet upgrade - Overseas Shipholding announced a comprehensive lifecycle engine upgrade, or LCU, program for all four vessels in its Alaskan Class fleet to be achieved through a contract with MAN Energy Solutions SE. The vessels Alaskan Explorer, Alaskan Frontier, Alaskan Legend, and Alaskan Navigator, all approaching 20 years in age, will receive significant engine and operational improvements, resulting in environmental benefits as well as extending their commercially useful life. The LCU program is scheduled to begin in early 2024 in conjunction with plans to reactivate the recently acquired Alaskan Frontier. The remaining three vessel engine upgrades will be conducted concurrently with scheduled vessel drydocking periods through 2026, which will mark the completion of the project. "The decision to contract with MAN Energy Solutions for engine Life Cycle Upgrades on all four Alaska class tankers represents a major investment in the future of our company," stated Sam Norton, President and CEO of OSG. "When combined with previously announced commitments to reactivate the Alaskan Frontier, the aggregate investment we will be making into our Alaskan fleet over the next three years will be close to $100 million." Norton continued, "The benefits of this substantial investment will be multiple. We expect improvements in fuel oil consumption, which will result not only in substantial cost savings, but as importantly in an estimated annual reduction of over 20,000 metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions based on historical trading patterns for each of these vessels. OSG has set a target of achieving a 15% reduction in annual CO2 emissions by 2030 and this investment alone should account for roughly one-third of that target. In addition, the anticipated improved emissions attained from the engine upgrades should allow all our Alaskan class vessels to operate in their historical trading patterns while maintaining compliance with current Carbon Intensity Index (CII) regulations through at least 2035."

15:30 EST Chewy announces launch of pet health practices 'Chewy Vet Care' - Earlier on Thursday, Chewy, announced the launch of its pet health practices under the brand name "Chewy Vet Care." The first practice will open in South Florida early next year with additional locations launching throughout 2024, and offer services including routine appointments, urgent care and surgery. The practices will be powered by Chewy's custom-built open platform that can seamlessly be applied to Chewy Vet Care or third-party partner practices. "We partnered with hundreds of veterinarians and customers to design an in-practice and post-visit experience which we believe will be unlike anything in the market, and appreciated by both communities," said Mita Malhotra, President, Chewy Health..."Chewy Vet Care is inspired and designed by a team of veterinary experts to combine personal, patient-centered medicine with the latest technology in an environment where customers will love to take their pets, and care teams will love to practice," said Dr. Benjamin Carter, Chief Medical Officer, Chewy Vet Care. "

15:22 EST Soleno Therapeutics' CEO Bhatnagar sells $3.3M in company shares - The CEO of Soleno Therapeutics Anish Bhatnaga disclosed the sale of 93,408 shares of company stock at $35.67 per share on December 11, for a total transaction amount of $3,331,705.

15:07 EST Shift4 Payments trading resumes

15:02 EST Shift4 Payments trading halted, volatility trading pause

14:50 EST Credit Suisse fined $10M to settle SEC 'prohibited' mutual fund service charge - The Securities and Exchange Commission announced that Credit Suisse Securities and two affiliated Credit Suisse entities agreed to pay more than $10M to settle the SEC's charges that they provided prohibited underwriting and advising services to mutual funds. In October 2022, the Superior Court of New Jersey entered a consent order that resolved a case alleging that Credit Suisse Securities violated the antifraud provisions of the New Jersey Securities laws in connection with its role as underwriter to residential mortgage-backed securities. According to the SEC's order, because the New Jersey court ordered that Credit Suisse Securities shall not violate New Jersey securities laws, Credit Suisse Securities and its affiliates were prohibited from serving as principal underwriter or investment adviser to mutual funds and employees' securities companies pursuant to the Investment Company Act of 1940. The SEC order finds, however, that the Credit Suisse Entities continued serving in these prohibited roles until the Commission granted them time-limited exemptions on June 7. Credit Suisse was acquired by UBS Group AG on June 12. Reference Link

14:33 EST Red Cat selected as one of two finalists for U.S. Army drone program - Red Cat Holdings announces that its subsidiary Teal Drones has been selected by the Department of Defense's Defense Innovation Unit and the U.S. Army as one of two finalists competing in the Short Range Reconnaissance Tranche 2 Program of Record. As part of being named a finalist, Teal will be awarded $3M of additional funding to support final prototype development and completion of remaining SRR milestones. "I'm excited to advance our collaboration with the U.S. Army as we seek to provide the ideal solution for SRR. We are grateful to have been selected as one of the two finalists in a program that began with more than 37 bidding vendors," commented George Matus, founder of Teal and Red Cat's Chief Technology Officer. "We're developing our next generation product from the ground up to meet the highly specific requirements of SRR, with the mission of providing warfighters superhuman capabilities."

14:24 EST Prospector Capital Corp trading resumes

14:19 EST Prospector Capital Corp trading halted, volatility trading pause

14:06 EST 7GC & Holdings Co Inc trading halted, volatility trading pause

13:43 EST German Bundesweh contracts to buy up to 82 multi-role H145M Airbus helicopters - The German Bundeswehr and Airbus Helicopters have signed a contract for the purchase of up to 82 multi-role H145M helicopters comprised of 62 firm orders plus 20 options. This is the largest order ever placed for the H145M and consequently the largest for the HForce weapon management system. The contract also includes seven years of support and services, ensuring optimal entry into service. The German Army will receive fifty-seven helicopters, while the Luftwaffe's special forces will receive five. "We are proud that the Bundeswehr has decided to order up to 82 H145M helicopters", said Bruno Even, CEO of Airbus Helicopters. "The H145M is a robust multi-role helicopter and the German Air Force has gained a significant amount of operational experience with its H145M LUH Special Operations Forces fleet. We will ensure that the Bundeswehr receives the helicopters in accordance with the very ambitious delivery schedule which includes first deliveries in 2024 less than a year after contract signature." Reference Link

13:12 EST Ameren, Exelon drag on Utilities in midday trading - Ameren (AEE), Exelon (EXC) and WEC Energy (WEC) are among a number of utility stocks declining in midday trading, which is providing a drag on the Utilities Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLU). The energy benchmark fund has dropped about 1% near 1:10 p.m. ET, while Ameren is down over 6%, Exelon has fallen more than 6% and WEC Energy is down nearly 3%.

12:54 EST Missouri PSC sets hearing schedule in Ameren renewable generation plants case - The Missouri Public Service Commission is scheduled to hold hearings in mid-February in a case filed by Union Electric Company d/b/a Ameren Missouri which seeks certificates of convenience and necessity authorizing Ameren Missouri to construct, install, own, operate, maintain and otherwise control and manage: a 300 megawatt solar generation facility to be constructed in Warren County, Missouri; a 150 MW solar generation facility to be constructed in Cass County, Illinois; a 50 MW solar generation facility to be constructed in Audrain County, Missouri; and a 50 MW solar generation facility to be constructed in Pike County, Missouri. Hearings are scheduled for February 13-15, the PSC announced. Reference Link

12:00 EST Small Cap Bear 3x falls -8.3% - Small Cap Bear 3x is down -8.3%, or -$1.88 to $20.85.

12:00 EST ABM falls -9.0% - ABM is down -9.0%, or -$4.72 to $47.58.

12:00 EST Intrepid Potash rises 21.1% - Intrepid Potash is up 21.1%, or $4.05 to $23.32.

11:55 EST Meta's Threads opens to more countries in Europe, says Zuckerberg - Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg said that the company is opening Threads to more countries in Europe. Reference Link

11:49 EST Seadrill's chief operating & technology officer Leif Nelson to depart company - As previously announced, Seadrill Limited has decided to close its London, England office and consolidate its corporate office in Houston, Texas. The company announced today that its Executive Vice President and Chief Operating & Technology Officer, Leif Nelson, will not relocate to Houston and instead will be departing Seadrill. In connection with Nelson's departure, the company has promoted Marcel Wieggers to Senior Vice President - Operations, reporting directly to Simon Johnson, President and CEO. Wieggers has been with Seadrill since 2009, most recently serving as Vice President - Operations.

11:08 EST GM's Cruise to lay off 24% of full-time employees - GM's Cruise unit on Thursday announced that it will make staff reductions impacting 24% of its workforce. "In October, Cruise paused operations to take time to examine our processes, systems and tools and improve how we operate. While we remain committed to commercialization, we will approach it within a thoughtful and achievable time frame-with safety as our north star. As a result of our updated operating plans, today Cruise shared the difficult news that we are making staff reductions impacting 24% of full-time Cruisers. This reflects our new future and a more deliberate go-to-market path, meaning less immediate need for field, commercial operations and corporate staffing. As we look forward, the road to successful commercialization is dependent on defining and meeting an exceptional performance and heightened safety bar. Cruise is committed to playing a key role in defining these standards with the input of our regulators, our communities and other AV industry leaders." Reference Link

10:39 EST Nubia Brand International Corp trading resumes

10:34 EST Trian nominates two candidates to Disney board - Trian Fund Management, L.P., which beneficially owns $3B of common stock in The Walt Disney Company, submitted a notice of its intention to nominate two independent director candidates for election to the Disney Board of Directors at the Company's 2024 Annual Meeting of Shareholders. Trian said: "Disney is one of the most iconic companies in the world with unrivaled scale, unparalleled customer loyalty, irreplaceable intellectual property, and an enviable commercial flywheel. However, Disney has woefully underperformed its peers and its potential... Unfortunately, the Board and CEO appear to have no conviction that things will get better. The non-management directors collectively own less than $15 million of Disney stock, and Mr. Iger has sold the vast majority of his ownership stake built up primarily through share-based compensation - more than $1 billion of Disney stock - leaving shareholders alone to face the daunting reality of a complex turnaround in a rapidly evolving industry." Trian also said: "As Disney's largest active shareholder, we can no longer sit idly by as the incumbent directors and their hand-picked replacements stand in the way of necessary change, and peers and competitors continue to outperform. In our view, Disney's Board has failed to fulfill its essential responsibilities - overseeing the development of an effective strategy, planning for orderly succession, aligning executive pay with performance, and ensuring accountability for operational execution. Shareholder-led board refreshment with focused and aligned directors who are accountable to the owners of the company is long overdue." Trian's director candidates are Nelson Peltz and James A. Rasulo. To resolve the malaise and crisis of confidence among Disney shareholders, the Board needs fresh perspectives from truly independent directors selected by the shareholders themselves," Mr. Peltz added. "Jay and I have the strategic, operating, financial, and governance expertise to help Disney and are committed to working with the other members of the Board and management team to address the fundamental issues underlying the Company's continued poor performance. There is much that can be done to revive Disney and restore the confidence of Disney shareholders, and Trian looks forward to discussing these opportunities with our fellow shareholders over the coming months."

10:32 EST Trian nominates two candidates to Disney board

10:04 EST Intel introduces portfolio of chips for AI products - Intel today at its "AI Everywhere" launch introduced a portfolio of artificial intelligence products "to enable customers' AI solutions everywhere - across the data center, cloud, network, edge and PC." The Intel Core Ultra mobile processor family, the first built on the Intel 4 process technology, "delivers Intel's most power-efficient client processor and ushers in the age of the AI PC," the company said in a statement. The 5th Gen Intel Xeon processor family "is built with AI acceleration in every core, bringing leaps in AI and overall performance and lowering total cost of ownership," Intel added. Intel also showed for the first time an Intel Gaudi 3 AI accelerator, which it says is arriving on schedule next year.

10:00 EST Direxion Daily Gold Miners Bear 3X ETF falls -7.2% - Direxion Daily Gold Miners Bear 3X ETF is down -7.2%, or -78c to $10.07.

10:00 EST Small Cap Bear 3x falls -9.6% - Small Cap Bear 3x is down -9.6%, or -$2.19 to $20.54.

10:00 EST Sunnova Energy rises 16.3% - Sunnova Energy is up 16.3%, or $1.94 to $13.86.

09:55 EST Reneo resumes, down 83% after PMM study did not hit endpoint - Trading in Reneo Pharmaceuticals shares resumed and the stock fell $6.45, or 83%, to $1.30 after the company earlier had announced that its pivotal STRIDE study of mavodelpar in adult patients with primary mitochondrial myopathies, or PMM, did not meet its primary efficacy or secondary efficacy endpoint. The company intends to implement immediate cost savings initiatives, including suspension of the ongoing STRIDE AHEAD study and all other mavodelpar development activities and a workforce reduction of approximately 70%.

09:50 EST Reneo Pharmaceuticals Inc trading resumes

09:47 EST Debt Resolve falls -7.1% - Debt Resolve is down -7.1%, or -$2.68 to $35.03.

09:47 EST Stem rises 12.0% - Stem is up 12.0%, or 43c to $4.04.

09:47 EST Gaotu Techedu rises 13.6% - Gaotu Techedu is up 13.6%, or 50c to $4.19.

09:40 EST Mitcham Industries trading resumes

09:30 EST Mitcham Industries trading halted, volatility trading pause

09:26 EST Reneo Pharmaceuticals announces workforce reduction of about 70% - Trading in Reneo Pharmaceuticals shares has been halted ahead of the company announcing that its pivotal STRIDE study of mavodelpar in adult patients with primary mitochondrial myopathies, or PMM, did not meet its primary efficacy or secondary efficacy endpoint. The company intends to implement immediate cost savings initiatives, including suspension of the ongoing STRIDE AHEAD study and all other mavodelpar development activities and a workforce reduction of approximately 70%, Reneo noted. The company currently has over $100M in cash, cash equivalents, and short-term investments, Reneo stated. The STRIDE study was a global, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled pivotal Phase 2b trial of mavodelpar in adult patients with PMM due to mitochondrial DNA, or mtDNA, defects. The STRIDE AHEAD study was an open-label extension trial being conducted outside of the United States in adult patients with PMM due to mtDNA defects who participated in the STRIDE study, the mavodelpar Phase 1b study, and mavodelpar-naive patients with PMM due to nuclear DNA, or nDNA, defects.

09:19 EST TPI Composites enters refinancing transaction with Oaktree - TPI Composites has entered into a binding agreement with funds managed by Oaktree Capital Management to refinance Oaktree's outstanding Series A Preferred Stock holdings in the Company. The refinancing closed concurrently with the execution of the Agreement. Under the terms of the Agreement, Oaktree converted its existing $436M Series A Preferred Stock investment into a $393M senior secured term loan, with the remaining $43M exchanged into common equity pursuant to a separate purchase agreement. Including Oaktree's existing common equity position in TPI, Oaktree holds 9.9% of TPI's common equity on a pro forma basis. In connection with this refinancing, the maturity of the term loan was extended to March 31, 2027, from November 22, 2026, the optional redemption date for the Series A Preferred Stock. Under the terms of the term loan, the Company has the ability to pay in kind all interest payments through December 31, 2025, and 50% of the interest payments from January 1, 2026, through maturity. If the Company elects to pay in cash any interest payments that could have been paid in kind, the applicable interest rate will be reduced by 2%, resulting in an effective interest rate of 9% for such portion of interest. Importantly, TPI and Oaktree have also agreed that the term loan will not be subject to the minimum fixed charge dividend coverage ratio or other financial maintenance covenants that were previously in effect, other than the requirement to maintain a minimum cash balance in the U.S.

09:17 EST First Wave BioPharma announces 1-for-20 reverse stock split - First Wave BioPharma announced that the Company's stockholders have approved all proposals voted on at the Company's special meeting of stockholders held on December 12, 2023, and that its Board of Directors approved a 1-for-20 reverse stock split of its outstanding shares of common stock, to be effective as of 12:01 a.m. Eastern Time on Monday, December 18, 2023. At the Special Meeting, First Wave's stockholders approved four proposals: to increase the total number of authorized shares of the Company's common stock, par value $0.0001, by 50,000,000 shares to 100,000,000 shares; to grant the Company's Board of Directors the discretion to effect a reverse stock split of First Wave's Common Stock through an amendment to its Certificate of Incorporation at a ratio of not less than 1-for-10 and not more than 1-for-20; to ratify the Company's entry into a securities purchase agreement entered into on July 18, 2023; and to adjourn the Special Meeting in the event that there are insufficient proxies to approve any one or more of the three preceding proposals.

09:16 EST Holon Health chooses CareCloud's talkEHR platform - CareCloud announced Holon Health has selected CareCloud's talkEHR to elevate its patient care and streamline operations.

09:13 EST JetBlue annouces fourth destination in Mexico - JetBlue announced it will serve Tulum, its fourth destination in Mexico. JetBlue's flights to Tulum are on sale starting today. Daily nonstop service from New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport JFK to Felipe Carrillo Puerto Tulum International Airport will begin June 13, 2024. Nestled on the Caribbean coast in the Riviera Maya, Tulum is known for its serene beaches, eco-conscious living, and rich Mayan history. This will be JetBlue's fourth destination in Mexico, where it currently serves Cancun, Puerto Vallarta and Los Cabos. "With picturesque beaches and vibrant cultural heritage, Tulum has proven to be a destination in demand by seamlessly blending ancient and modern, in a country that continues to lead with world-class hospitality," said David Jehn, vice president, network planning and airline partnerships, JetBlue. "With the new international airport in Tulum, we are able to bring our customers where they want to go, arriving and departing in a brand new, modern, and convenient airport facility while offering the great service and low fares JetBlue is known for."

09:10 EST Allstate says new rates to boost annualized written premiums by $1B - "Allstate continued to make progress on our comprehensive plan to improve profitability. Since the beginning of the year, rate increases for Allstate brand auto insurance have resulted in a premium impact of 11.4%, which are expected to raise annualized written premiums by approximately $2.97B, and rate increases for Allstate brand homeowners insurance have resulted in a premium impact of 10.1%, which are expected to raise annualized written premiums by approximately $1.03B. Implemented rate increases and inflation in insured home replacement costs resulted in a 12.6% increase in homeowners insurance average gross written premium in November 2023 compared to the prior year," said Jess Merten, Chief Financial Officer of The Allstate Corporation. "In addition, we recently received approval from Departments of Insurance in California, New York and New Jersey for Allstate brand auto insurance rate increases of 30.0%, 14.6% and 20.0%, respectively, as we work with the regulators to enable us to offer protection to customers. We expect to implement these rates in December with effective dates through February 2024. The rates are expected to raise annualized written premiums by approximately $1B."

09:07 EST Coveo announces general availability of Coveo Relevance Generative Answering - Coveo announced that Coveo Relevance Generative Answering will be generally available starting December 15th, after several months of Beta testing with several enterprises. The company continues to add to its roster of customers signing order forms for Coveo's enterprise-ready Relevance Generative Answering, with large enterprises like SAP Concur.

09:06 EST Reneo Pharmaceuticals announces results from STRIDE study of mavodelpar - Reneo Pharmaceuticals announced its pivotal STRIDE study of mavodelpar in adult patients with primary mitochondrial myopathies (PMM) did not meet its primary efficacy or secondary efficacy endpoint. The primary efficacy endpoint of the trial was the change from baseline in the distance walked during the 12-minute walk test at week 24. The secondary efficacy endpoint was the change from baseline in the PROMIS Short Form Fatigue 13a score. "We are immensely thankful to all the patients, families, and healthcare professionals who participated in the mavodelpar PMM development program," said Gregory Flesher, President and CEO of Reneo Pharmaceuticals. "Although the results of the STRIDE study were negative, the data generated are vitally important to the scientific community and we will make these data available once the final analyses are complete. Finally, I want to thank all Reneo employees for their dedication and tireless contributions to advancing the science of mitochondrial disease."

09:05 EST Varonis launches Data Security Platform on Salesforce AppExchange - Varonis Systems has launched its Data Security Platform on Salesforce AppExchange. Varonis empowers organizations to secure critical customer data in the world's number-one CRM by providing deep visibility, threat detection, and incident response capabilities.

09:04 EST Koil Energy secures contract for steel tube flying leads - Koil Energy Solutions announced the acquisition of an order for a design of steel tube flying leads of extended lengths directly from an operator. The multi-million-dollar contract encompasses the comprehensive design, engineering and manufacturing of several 1,000+ ft. flying leads tailored for a unique application in the Gulf of Mexico. All units are slated for delivery in 2024.

09:03 EST First Community announces executive promotions and additions - First Community announced promotions and additions to its Executive Leadership Team. Effective July 1, 2024, J. Ted Nissen will become the CEO of First Community Bank while still retaining the role of President and will also be joining First Community's Board of Directors. Effective January 1, 2024, Joseph Painter and Vaughan Dozier, Jr. will become Executive VPs in the roles of Co-Chief Commercial and Retail Banking Officers. Michael Crapps will continue in his role as President and CEO of First Community.

09:03 EST WW lauches WeightWatchers GLP-1 Program - WeightWatchers announced the launch of WeightWatchers GLP-1 Program to provide tailored behavioral support for individuals on a GLP-1 medication. The new program was scientifically designed to help support the unique behavioral and nutritional needs one faces while on a GLP-1 journey. WeightWatchers continues to offer program solutions based on scientific evidence and consumer research. The medical community recognizes obesity as a chronic condition, and the need to treat it as such; so does the company's approach to new treatment offerings. The new WeightWatchers GLP-1 Program, which was developed by WeightWatchers' team of obesity specialists, clinicians, behavior-change scientists, dietitians and fitness experts, solves a gap in the market as members navigate life on new weight loss medications. The program supports members with building and sustaining healthy habits while appetite is significantly reduced, such as ensuring adequate nutrition - specifically protein and nutrient dense foods, as well as hydration. It also provides movement goals and a community of people on a similar journey for support and practical tips.

09:02 EST Amgen announces senior leadership appointments - Amgen announced two changes to its senior leadership team in the areas of research and development and technology, underscoring the advancement of the company's robust pipeline and its commitment to ongoing scientific and technological innovation. James Bradner, M.D., has joined Amgen as executive vice president of Research and Development, and chief scientific officer. Bradner is succeeding David Reese, M.D., who has been appointed executive vice president and chief technology officer. Both Bradner and Reese will report to Robert Bradway, chairman and CEO at Amgen.

09:01 EST Electriq Power provides financial update - Electriq Power provided a company update and initial revenue guidance for full-year 2024. Approximately $5M in revenue backlog from over 160 Power Purchase Agreements, or PPA, signed via Sustainable Community Networks, or SCN. Approximately $10M commitment from Sustainable Solutions developers to purchase Electriq's PowerPod 2 systems with expansion in Puerto Rico and Washington D.C. in 2024 announced in September. Signed partnership agreement with solar sales and installation company to fuel homeowner PPA signups and system installations. Cost reductions implemented in 2H 2023 expected to extend the company's cash runway and increase adjusted EBITDA margins in 2024. Closed previously announced extinguishment of company obligations under restrictive forward purchase agreement with Meteora through equity issuance.

08:57 EST Charles Schwab reports total client assets $8.18T at November-end, up 12% YoY - The Charles Schwab Corporation released its Monthly Activity Report . Company highlights for the month of November 2023 include: Core net new assets brought to the company by new and existing clients totaled $21.7B; Total client assets were $8.18T as of month-end November, up 12% from November 2022 and up 7% compared to October 2023. Transactional sweep cash ended November 2023 at $402.9 B, representing an increase of $5B versus the prior month - the largest monthly build in transactional sweep cash since March 2022. Excluding bank deposit account balance activity, clients added over $7B across our balance sheet cash solutions during the month While the company's 'through the cycle' financial model continues to deliver against an evolving backdrop, lower transactional cash levels, along with softer client trading volumes and subdued securities lending activity, is expected to result in full-year 2023 revenue declining by 9.5% to 10.0% versus the previous year.

08:51 EST Ambrx Biopharma to be added to the Nasdaq Biotechnology Index - Ambrx Biopharma (AMAM) announced that the Company will be added to the NASDAQ Biotechnology Index (NBI), effective prior to the market open on Monday, December 18, 2023.

08:47 EST Yoshiharu opens 10th restaurant location in Garden Grove, CA - Yoshiharu Global announced the upcoming opening of its 10th restaurant location in Garden Grove, California scheduled for December 18th, 2023. The Garden Grove location will feature a diverse range of culinary dishes to cater to each customer's palates and preferences including sushi, bento boxes, rice bowls, and the signature Yoshiharu ramen.

08:46 EST Digital Ally reports deferred revenue surpasses $10M mark - Digital Ally announced a notable milestone with its deferred revenue balance exceeding $10M for the first time in the Company's history. The Company's switch to a subscription program model in mid-2020 has proven to be a success and widely accepted in the industry as adequate funding for many municipalities can be a rigorous and slow process.

08:44 EST Jeffs' Brands signs LOI to acquire 70% stake in laser-based tech company - Jeffs' Brands announced the signing of a non-binding letter of intent with Sky Growth Partners to invest in an innovative Digital Light Processing laser-based system for drone countermeasure solutions, initially for the defense sector. According to the LOI, Sky Growth will establish and transfer all of its rights in the technology to a new Israeli company that will develop, manufacture and market the technology. Following an investment of $2 million by Jeffs' Brands, it will hold a 70% equity interest in NewCo. In addition, pursuant to the terms of the LOI, the Company will establish a credit line of up to $250,000 bearing an annual interest of 8% for the utilization by NewCo for a limited time period, subject to certain conditions as to be approved by the parties. The LOI also includes certain milestone conditions that if achieved by NewCo, will grant the founders, for no additional consideration, additional equity interests in NewCo. NewCo plans on developing a technological system based on a pending patent. According to the LOI, NewCo will develop, manufacture and market an electro-optical defense system, based on a laser combined with DLP, which, upon the successful completion of its development, will provide a stationary or mobile dynamic protection system to disrupt the operation of cameras located on drones and unmanned or manned aircrafts that are remotely operated. The system will be able to neutralize any visual systems such as cameras that are installed on drones and other aerial and non-aerial objects. The laser-based system will potentially be in use for defense and commercial applications, such as: neutralizing drone attacks, protecting against commercial espionage, strategic infrastructure protection and more. The Investment is subject to the successful completion of due diligence by both parties, the execution of binding definitive agreements with respect to the Investment and compliance with any regulatory requirements and approvals.

08:40 EST Real Good Food announces expansion of burritos into Club stores nationwide - The Real Good Food Company announced expansion of its innovative, nutritious burritos in the refrigerated category, into Club stores nationwide and select Walmart stores. After successfully launching the burritos in select Club stores earlier in 2023, Real Good Foods is expanding into all stores in Q4 2023. This milestone is significant as it highlights Real Good Foods ability to successfully extend the brand to multiple temperature states and penetrate multiple categories within the Club Channel. "After years of successfully establishing products within frozen categories in Club, we are extremely proud to enhance our refrigerated distribution footprint within the Club Channel with our nutritious burritos," said Bryan Freeman, Executive Chairman of The Real Good Food Company. "...Club shoppers today are looking for nutritious foods across all categories and usage occasions, and Real Good Foods is positioned to provide access to these offerings across multiple temperature states and categories. Through our expansion in the Club Channel, we can make nutritious food more accessible throughout the US, and in turn, improve the lives of Club shoppers looking for healthier options in the refrigerated aisle".

08:39 EST Alliance Entertainment says AMPED Distribution achieves 24 Grammy nominations - Alliance Entertainment Holding announced a "momentous year" for its independent music distribution arm, AMPED Distribution. In its 10th year of operation, AMPED has achieved a record-breaking 24 Grammy nominations for 19 artists, highlighting the company's commitment to championing independent music and empowering artists to succeed.

08:37 EST Teva, Biolojic in pact for developing therapeutic antibodies for inflamation - Teva Pharmaceutical and Biolojic Design or Biolojic, "a biotechnology company that uses computational biology and artificial intelligence to transform antibodies into intelligent medicinal solutions" announced an exclusive license agreement to develop a potential novel antibody-based therapy for the treatment of Atopic Dermatitis and Asthma. BD9 is a dual specific antibody that can block both TSLP and IL-13, and has the potential to deliver treatment across typically TH2-driven inflammatory diseases, such as atopic dermatitis and asthma. Existing drugs currently approved by health authorities focus on only one of these two drivers of inflammation, and do not respond to pathway dynamics. When TSLP or IL13 is upregulated BD9 can bind to either target with both arms and with high affinity, therefore having the potential to help more patients and improve outcomes. This agreement supports one of Teva's key pillars in its Pivot to Growth strategy announced in May 2023, to step up innovation, by enhancing the Company's early-stage pipeline organically and through strategic partnerships...Under the terms of the agreement, Teva will receive exclusive rights to develop, manufacture and commercialize BD9 worldwide. In exchange, Biolojic will receive an upfront payment, and will be eligible to receive subsequent milestone payments over the next several years, based on the achievement of certain pre-clinical, clinical, regulatory, and commercial milestones. Biolojic is also eligible to receive tiered royalties in the mid-single to low-double digit on product sales should Teva successfully commercialize a therapy

08:37 EST Chijet Motor remains 'optimistic' about business development, growth strategy - Chijet Motor Company is providing further commentary on the financial results for the first half of 2023 that were released on December 4, 2023. The company said, "Although the data for the first half of 2023 shows a downward trend, management remains optimistic regarding the successful implementation of the business development and growth strategy...In the recent earnings release, the Company reported a 73.2% year-on-year decrease in its sales revenue and a 71.8% decrease in sales volume due to the strategic transformation and policy-driven reduction in deliveries of fuel vehicles. Management sees the year of 2023 as a pivotal one for the strategic transformation of the business. With resolute determination, Chijet successfully integrated the structure of the original state-owned enterprise with the existing private enterprise, vigorously advancing the new energy strategy. During the first half of 2023, in response to the stricter emission requirements for fuel vehicles and the changing market demand for new energy vehicles, the Company proactively reduced the production and sales proportion of fuel vehicles. The decline in sales volume and revenue of fuel vehicles is within management expectations. Management believes that this transitional pain is an inevitable path to leapfrog development, through product renewal, brand upgrading, and expanding channels both domestically and internationally. It is expected that the new products will launch next year to achieve a true transformation and management is confident that there will be a significant improvement in product production and sales figures in 2024. In terms of the Company operations as part of the transition plan, the construction of the Yantai factory is progressing as currently planned. Despite some delays in the completion time due to the pandemic and financing plans, the management does not believe this will affect the mass production of new products next year. While actively promoting the construction of the new Yantai factory, the Company has always maintained and ensured the advanced and comprehensive production system, equipment, and facilities of FAW Jilin Automobile, a majority-owned subsidiary of the Company, as well as the excellent manufacture management and well-trained employees. FAW Jilin has always adhered to the credo of "quality first," leading the company's transformation and upgrading with a spirit of craftsmanship and lean production. Currently, the equipment's digitization and automation rate has reached 92%, with some workshops achieving 100% automation, fully meeting the production needs of new models. Additionally, the three-year pandemic has had a significant impact on external economic and social development, and the recovery process, even in the post-pandemic period, has been slow. Under these circumstances, the production and operations this year have also been greatly affected, especially in terms of the manufacturing base construction progress, supply chain, and refinancing. Chijet is actively restoring the construction of our production bases and cooperating in areas such as upstream and downstream supply chains and logistics this year and has now resumed normal production. Despite the pandemic's impact, the Company has maintained the healthy operation of our sales network and restored vehicle sales, gradually mitigating the impact of the pandemic..."Bringing an easy and pleasant intelligent era driving experience to the consumer" is our original aspiration, and we have a deep understanding of the needs of mass consumers. In 2023, the Company has integrated high-quality R&D and engineering resources to form an internationally linked product creation system led by a team in China. Chijet has established strategic cooperation relationships and R&D teams with domestic and international enterprises. Especially with the anticipated widespread implementation of solid-state batteries which feature the latest mass-produced cell with an energy density of 350wh/kg, aiming to extend vehicle range to 700km, the Company strives to select a competitive battery supplier and maintain the long-term development strategy of sustaining a technological edge. Although there have been some adjustments to the progress of some product development projects, the Company has never ceased its investment in R&D. As of now, the development of core products such as FB77 is in its final stage, and the development of future forward-looking technology application products is also progressing. Management looks forward to these outstanding products being launched as soon as possible."

08:35 EST Alexandria Real Estate leases property in SF Bay Area to Cargo Therapeutics - Alexandria Real Estate has executed a long-term lease with CARGO Therapeutics for 99,557 RSF at 835 Industrial Road on the Alexandria Center for Life Science - San Carlos mega campus in the San Francisco Bay Area. CARGO anticipates occupying the mission-critical life science space in early 2024. CARGO, which raised approximately $291M in its IPO in November 2023, is a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on advancing its platform technologies and a pipeline of potentially curative, next-generation cell therapies that could lead to better outcomes for cancer patients.

08:34 EST SoundThinking expands into Latin America with launch of ShotSpotter in Uruguay - SoundThinking announced the deployment of ShotSpotter in Montevideo, the capital city of Uruguay. The deployment marks the expansion of ShotShotter into the large Latin American market. "We're excited to announce our partnership with SoundThinking for the implementation of the ShotSpotter system in Montevideo," said Nicolas Martinelli, Minister of the Interior of Uruguay. "Gunshot detection is a key part of our strategy for enhancing public safety by promptly identifying gunshot sounds and enabling quick police response. We believe this partnership will complement our other violence reduction efforts and help make communities safer." ShotSpotter will be integrated with existing technologies in Montevideo that help police respond more effectively to gun violence, including video cameras and the city's computer-aided dispatch system.

08:33 EST Actelis announces order received, launch new last mile hybrid-fiber solution - Actelis Networks announced the official launch of the cyber and temperature hardened GigaLine 800 Hybrid-Fiber, last mile broadband networking solution. This new solution is designed to help network operators solve the challenge of deploying multi-Gigabit connectivity over thousands of feet in a secure, instantaneous, and economical manner by extending fiber connectivity utilizing existing copper and coax wiring. Now, without the need to wait for fiber availability, millions of homes and businesses can be connected immediately to broadband services generating new revenue opportunities for providers. Additionally, with GigaLine 800, operators of smart rail, smart campus, smart city as well as industrial and military networks have a fast path to completing their IoT projects on time and under budget. The GigaLine 800 solution delivers 5 Gbps over the last 1,000 feet and 1 Gbps over the last 3,000 feet closing the gap between the fiber termination point and the out of fiber reach building. "There is a growing demand in the market to get multi-Gigabit connectivity to unserved and underserved locations but in many cases running fiber takes many months to deliver, and the cost has been way too high to make it happen," said Tuvia Barlev, chairman and CEO of Actelis. "Until now, millions of people have been denied broadband services and we believe that the GigaLine 800 will be used to solve that problem immediately."

08:32 EST Jin Medical enters MOU to acquire medical equipment sharing platform - Jin Medical announced the signing of a preliminary Memorandum of Understanding, MOU, with Jiangsu Zhongjin Kanglu Information Technology to acquire all or a partial stake in Zhongjin Kanglu. According to the MOU, the Company will conduct a comprehensive due diligence process to evaluate and determine the feasibility and potential value of the acquisition. It is expected that the due diligence will be completed by December 31, 2023. It is expected that commencing from March 2024, the parties will enter into detailed negotiations for the potential acquisition. Investors should exercise caution as there is no certainty that the potential acquisition will be completed. Wang Erqi, Chairman and CEO of the Company, commented, "The signing of this highly anticipated MOU marks an important milestone in the collaboration and development between the Company and Zhongjin Kanglu. As a leading enterprise in the field of shared medical equipment, with its Small V Sharing Project, the innovative solutions and well-established channels in medical institutions brought by it, Zhongjin Kanglu will create a good synergistic effect for the promotion of JinMed's products in China. We intend to proceed with the acquisition process in full swing while bringing more innovation and growth opportunities to the industry."

08:26 EST Ensysce Biosciences announces efficacy data for PF614 - Ensysce Biosciences announced that its most recent study has demonstrated crucially important data for PF614 on pain intensity efficacy and speed of onset. The PF614-201 study, 'A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Crossover Study of PF614 on Analgesic Response in the Cold Pressor Test in Healthy Male Subjects', which completed enrollment in November 2023, demonstrated time-to-efficacy onset for the analgesia effect and significant decrease of pain intensity versus placebo of PF614 at two different dose levels, the first ever measured for this TAAP opioid. The study endpoints matched all previous clinical studies, demonstrating that Ensysce's TAAP chemical approach delivers strong analgesia safely and effectively. This 'time of onset' study data supports the key elements of our Phase 3 study designs that will allow the Company to affirm its Phase 3 plans and launch strategy for PF614 with the FDA during its End of Phase 2 meeting scheduled in late January 2024.

08:20 EST WiMi Hologram Cloud announces asymmetric spectral network algorithm - WiMi Hologram Cloud announced that its R&D team proposed an asymmetric spectral network algorithm. The algorithm employs asymmetric coordinate spectral spatial feature fusion to provide a novel, end-to-end feature learning method for hyperspectral image classification tasks. The algorithm's adaptive feature fusion method is capable of extracting discriminative spectral spatial features, and unlike common feature fusion methods, the algorithm is more adaptable to multi-hop connectivity tasks while eliminating the need for manual parameterization. WiMi's asymmetric spectral network algorithm solves the spectral noise problem through adaptive feature fusion. The algorithm allows the network to adaptively fuse multiple pieces of information to extract discriminative spectral-spatial features. Unlike traditional feature fusion, this algorithm does not require manual parameterization and is adapted to multi-hop connectivity tasks. This adaptivity helps to efficiently handle complex spectral data and improves the algorithm's ability to recognize real signals.

08:18 EST CACI awarded $64M task order for U.S. Air force DCGS shelter operations - CACI International that it has been awarded a five-year task order valued up to $64M to provide complete life cycle hardware and systems engineering for the U.S. Air Force Distributed Common Ground System DCGS . CACI's proven mobile technologies deliver scalable, customizable mobile command, control, computers, and communications C4 capabilities. This technology award will support the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center Command, Control, and Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance C2ISR Division under the Program Executive Office PEO - Digital Directorate by implementing a wide range of modifications and upgrades for its DCGS shelter operations, enabling the resiliency of forward operating location ground stations for effective quick reaction capabilities. "Our C4 mobile technology experts are well-versed in developing advanced shelters for dispersed, remote, and challenging environments that ensure the rapid delivery of critical information for the warfighter," said John Mengucci, CACI President and Chief Executive Officer. "Decades of investment, expertise, and unique innovations in resilient shelter protection ensure mission survivability and effectiveness for modern global operations."

08:17 EST Genetic Technologies provides details on transformative initiatives - Genetic Technologies provides details of a series of recent transformative initiatives. On Australian free to air television, Channel 9 News recently featured geneType's pioneering Precision & Preventive Medicine Clinic, marking a milestone in healthcare. Situated at Gold Coast Private Hospital, in Queensland, this clinic is the first of its kind in Australia, representing a fusion of cutting-edge technology and healthcare excellence. The clinic's establishment marks a significant leap forward in the integration of precision medicine into everyday healthcare practices. To highlight the importance of early detection, and therefore saving lives, geneType's world-first risk assessment test for Melanoma was recently featured on Channel 7's The Morning Show geneType ambassador, Deborah Hutton. GTG's commitment to innovation continues with a groundbreaking partnership with the University of Melbourne. Genetic Technologies Limited has been named commercial partner for a $2.4 million Medical Research Future Fund grant funded trial, named CASSOWARY.

08:16 EST Wingstop names Chris Fallon Chief Information Officer - Wingstop has named Chris Fallon as SVP, Chief Information Officer. Fallon's responsibilities spanned retail back-of-house, corporate, licensed stores and CPG technologies at Starbucks over his 14-year tenure. Most recently, he served as Chief Information Officer at Fortune Brands Water Innovations, overseeing the Moen and House of Rohl businesses.

08:14 EST TMC's NORI share preliminary findings of nodule collection system test - TMC the metals company provided an update on the environment program of its NORI subsidiary, including a detailed overview of the latest research on the potential impacts of sediment plumes at the seafloor based upon emerging data from NORI's 2022 pilot nodule collection system test. Contrary to plume models created by NGOs that were widely publicized in the media, NORI's preliminary benthic plume data and modelling show that sediment mobilized by its nodule collector vehicle at depths of approximately 4 kilometers forms a gravity-driven turbidity current that hugs the contours of the seafloor and does not loft up into the water column where it could possibly be transported longer distances by ocean currents.

08:11 EST VCI Global announces acquisition of EVOLET - VCI Global announced that its financial technology arm, Accuventures Sdn Bhd will be acquiring EVOLET. The acquisition will provide VCI Global direct access to the local remittance market. EVOLET is a home-grown digital platform that provides secured financial access and services for the unbanked, amongst others. As with the other countries, Malaysia has been aggressively driving to become a cashless society, increasing the cashless payment options as the latter is rapidly gaining popularity. To date, EVOLET is already serving over 13,000 users, from 13 countries, who are working in Malaysia. "Post acquisition, we will be able to integrate Credilab which is our AI powered micro financing platform, with EVOLET. This will boost the business considerably by offering financing, primarily targeting the foreign workers in the country," said Dato' Victor Hoo, Group Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of VCI Global.

08:09 EST Bannix Acquisition announces monthly extension to complete business combination - Bannix Acquisition announced that its board of directors has decided to extend the date by which Bannix must consummate an initial business combination from December 14, 2023 for an additional month, to January 14, 2024. As previously disclosed, at a special meeting of its stockholders held on March 8, 2023, Bannix' stockholders voted in favor of a proposal to amend Bannix's Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation to provide Bannix with the right to extend the Deadline Date up to 12 times for an additional one month each time until March 14, 2024. On March 9, 2023, Bannix filed the Amended Charter with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware. Also as previously announced, if an Extension is implemented, the sponsor of Bannix, Instant Fame or its designees will deposit into the trust account, as a loan, the lesser of $75,000 and $0.07 for each share that is not redeemed in connection with the special meeting. On December 14, 2023, the Board, at the request of the Sponsor, decided to implement the ten Extension and to extend the Deadline Date for an additional month to January 14, 2024.

08:08 EST NV5 Global awarded $7M in contracts to support safety, engineering review in CA - NV5 Global announced that it has been awarded contracts totaling $7M to support two California, CA, counties through engineering plan review services. NV5 was awarded a $5 million contract by the County of San Diego to support the Building Services Division through plan check services for residential, commercial, and utilities projects. NV5 was also selected for a three-year, $2 million engineering plan review contract by the Mountain House Community Services District. "NV5 has delivered engineering and consulting services to support infrastructure and development in California for over 70 years," said Dickerson Wright, PE, Chairman and CEO of NV5. "We are pleased to have been selected for these awards and look forward to continuing to support the growth of these thriving communities."

08:07 EST Cion Investment declares 15c special, year-end cash distribution - CION Investment Corporation announced that it has declared a special cash distribution for the year ending December 31 in the amount of 15c per share, payable on January 31 to shareholders of record as of December 22 which results in an increase in total distributions declared in 2023 of 16c per share, or 11.0%, from total distributions declared for the year ended December 31, 2022 of $1.45 per share. This special year-end distribution also results in a declared distribution yield1 of 15.5% for the year-to-date period through December 13, which is an increase of 14.0% year-over-year from the declared distribution yield1 of 13.6% for the year ended December 31, 2022. The special distribution represents a portion of the Company's investment company taxable income generated through the course of the year.

08:06 EST FuelCell closes tax equity financings with Group 1001, Franklin Park - FuelCell Energy closed on transactions with Franklin Park and Group 1001 Insurance Holdings for two of its clean energy projects-the Tri-gen platform in Long Beach, California, and the new fuel cell park in Derby, Connecticut. These two transactions include one of the first direct transfer agreements that monetizes both the Investment Tax Credits and Hydrogen Production Tax Credits enabled by the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 and include a tax credit direct transfer agreement and a tax equity partnership totaling net proceeds of $34.2 million. These give FuelCell Energy the financial flexibility to further refine its clean energy technology and to participate in clean energy collaborations and transition projects around the world.

08:05 EST ImmunoPrecise Antibodies reports Q2 EPS (10c), consensus (10c) - Reports Q2 revenue $6.2M, consensus $4.31M...Liquidity: $6.1M of total cash, cash equivalents and marketable securities, with a reduced cash burn of $0.7M for FY24 Q2, compared to cash burn of $1.6M for FY24 Q1. "We report our third consecutive quarter of record revenue, reflecting both existing and new customers' needs for our end-to-end support of antibody discovery through development, designed to reduce risk, cost and time. Our laboratory's B Cell Select platform, as well as our manufacturing facility with its expanded capacity, continue to experience strong growth. Additionally, we have reduced our cash burn from $1.6 M FY24 Q1 to $0.7M in FY24 Q2, reflecting the impact of our revenue growth and strategic cost cutting while we continue to invest in capabilities to support our clients. Our subsidiary, BioStrand, recognized early revenue from LENSai-driven client programs and continues to progress towards the next phase of the launch of their LENSai portal and Software as a Service SaaS platforms. With our Talem assets, we remain committed to our strategy of driving revenue through out-licensing opportunities and are pleased to provide an update on the Talem asset highlighted in September's earnings call, as we have recently received and executed a Letter of Intent to engage in a Material Transfer Agreement MTA for this asset. We also continue to leverage Talem's strategic partnerships, which are contributing to our contract research revenue and generating new client opportunities for BioStrand," said Dr. Jennifer Bath, CEO of ImmunoPrecise Antibodies.

08:04 EST Bionano Genomics reports special issue of Cancers journal dedicated to OGM - Bionano Genomics announced the publication of a special issue of Cancers journal entirely dedicated to the Company's optical genome mapping workflow. The issue, which features guest editors Dr. Adam Smith from University of Toronto, Dr. Gordana Raca from Children's Hospital Los Angeles, and Dr. Alexander Hoischen from Radboud University Medical Center, includes eight peer-reviewed publications, with three additional publications expected to come, covering the use of OGM in hematological malignancy research and demonstrating its potential to offer significant research insights in a simple and effective workflow. In an editorial, Drs. Smith, Raca and Hoischen describe the advantages OGM has over traditional cytogenetic methods of analysis, including karyotyping, fluorescence in situ hybridization, and chromosomal microarray analysis, such as higher resolution and the ability to detect impactful structural variants. The guest editors also discuss limitations of long and short-read sequencing for SV detection, including challenges with resolution, sensitivity, throughput, achieved coverage, and price per genome. The guest editors note that OGM offers benefits for laboratory adoption, due to its cost-efficient and easily scalable workflow and simple analysis pipeline and software system. They conclude that OGM could enable "next generation cytogenetics" due to its potential to replace traditional cytogenetic methods and detect variants that may increase the understanding of hematologic malignancies and further expand hematological research. The issue's other publications, authored by researchers from the United States, Canada, Germany, Finland, and a consortium of Spanish laboratories, cover research indications including acute myeloid leukemia, chronic lymphocytic leukemia, myeloma and myeloid cancers. These publications include findings that demonstrate OGM's high level of concordance with traditional methods for the detection of SVs, ability to identify additional pathogenic SVs missed by those methods, contributions to comprehensive tumor profiling, and potential to influence disease classification and risk prognostication.

08:03 EST Genesis HealthCare to add BIO-key's PortalGuard IAM platform - BIO-key International announced that its longstanding customer Genesis HealthCare System will add BIO-key's PortalGuard IAM platform to support its existing BIO-key biometric authentication investment as it migrates to Epic Systems' Hyperdrive end-user application interface. Genesis HealthCare has a network of more than 300 physicians and 4,000 employees across 27 locations.

07:56 EST Aeterna Zentaris, Ceapro enter agreement for all-stock merger of equals - Aeterna Zentaris and Ceapro announced that they have entered into a definitive agreement to combine operations in an all-stock merger of equals transaction. The combined company is expected to be listed on the Nasdaq Capital Market and the Toronto Stock Exchange, subject to the receipt of all necessary approvals. A new name for the combined company will be announced in the coming weeks and the Transaction is expected to close in the first quarter of 2024. The Transaction is structured as a merger of equals business combination. The terms of the Transaction are set out in a definitive arrangement agreement between Aeterna and Ceapro. The Transaction will be effected by way of a plan of arrangement in respect of Ceapro under the Canada Business Corporations Act pursuant to which, at closing, each outstanding Ceapro common share will be exchanged for 0.09439 of an Aeterna common share with the result that Ceapro will become a wholly-owned subsidiary of Aeterna. Additionally, as part of the Transaction, Aeterna will issue to its shareholders immediately prior to the closing of the Transaction, 0.47698 of a share purchase warrant for each Aeterna common share held as of such date. Each Transaction Warrant will have a term of three years and each whole Transaction Warrant will be exercisable to purchase one common share of Aeterna at a nominal exercise price of US$0.01. Holders of Aeterna's currently outstanding warrants will also be issued Transaction Warrants in accordance with the anti-dilution provisions of such warrants. The Transaction Warrants will be issued to current Aeterna shareholders in order to reflect the difference between the market capitalizations of Ceapro and Aeterna as of the date of the Arrangement Agreement and to compensate Aeterna shareholders for the value of Aeterna's cash position which is not fully reflected in Aeterna's current market capitalization. The Transaction also provides the outstanding options to acquire Ceapro common shares to be replaced by options allowing their holders to acquire common shares of Aeterna on similar terms, as adjusted by the Exchange Ratio. Following the closing of the Transaction, the former shareholders of Ceapro will own 50% of Aeterna and the pre-Transaction securityholders of Aeterna will own the remaining 50%, assuming the exercise of all Transaction Warrants. The Transaction will require the approval of at least 66 2/3% of the votes cast by Ceapro shareholders and 66 2/3% of the votes cast by Ceapro shareholders and Ceapro optionholders, voting together as a single class, at a special meeting of Ceapro's securityholders. The issuance of common shares, Transaction Warrants and Replacement Options by Aeterna under the Transaction is subject to the approval of a simple majority of the votes cast by Aeterna shareholders at a special meeting of Aeterna shareholders. Moreover, Aeterna shareholders will also be required to approve, by simple majority, the proposed changes to the Aeterna Board described below, as well as, by a majority of at least 66 2/3% of the votes cast by Aeterna shareholders, the proposed change of the name of Aeterna and the proposed consolidation of the Aeterna common shares described below. The Transaction is also subject to closing conditions customary for transactions of this nature, including Alberta court approval and applicable stock exchange approvals. The Arrangement Agreement includes reciprocal non-solicitation provisions and a reciprocal termination fee of C$500,000 payable in certain circumstances. Certain officers and directors of Ceapro have entered into lock-up agreements with Aeterna, agreeing to vote their Ceapro common shares and options in favour of the Transaction. Similarly, certain officers and directors of Aeterna have entered into lock-up agreements with Ceapro, agreeing to vote their Aeterna common shares in favour of the Transaction. it is anticipated that both shareholder meetings and the closing of the Transaction will take place in the first quarter of 2024, subject to the satisfaction of the conditions of the Arrangement Agreement. Following closing of the Transaction, it is expected that the shares of the combined company will continue to trade on the TSX and the Nasdaq, subject to approval or acceptance of each such exchange. As a wholly-owned subsidiary of Ceapro upon closing of the Transaction, Ceapro's common shares will be de-listed from the TSX Venture Exchange following closing. Following the closing of the Transaction, the board of directors of the combined company will consist of eight directors, comprised of four independent directors from Ceapro, three independent directors from Aeterna and Gilles Gagnon, who currently serves on both boards. Management of the combined operations will include executives from both Ceapro and Aeterna, with Ceapro's current Chief Executive Officer, Gilles Gagnon, and Aeterna's current Chief Financial Officer, Giuliano La Fratta, continuing to carry out their respective responsibilities following the closing of the Transaction.

07:42 EST Pfizer completes acquisition of Seagen - Pfizer (PFE) announced the completion of its acquisition of Seagen (SGEN). Pfizer completed its acquisition of all outstanding common stock of Seagen for $229 in cash per share, for a total enterprise value of approximately $43B. As previously disclosed, to address U.S. Federal Trade Commission concerns, Pfizer has chosen to irrevocably donate the rights of royalties from sales of Bavencio in the U.S. to the American Association for Cancer Research, or AACR.

07:38 EST Commercial Vehicle Group announces election of Johnson to board of directors - Commercial Vehicle announced that its Board of Directors has elected William Johnson as an independent director to the Board, effective December 8, 2023. Johnson will serve on the Compensation Committee and the Nominating, Governance and Sustainability Committee of the Board. He will stand for re-election at the Company's 2024 Annual Meeting of Stockholders. Since October 2022, Mr. Johnson has served as CEO and a member of the Board of Directors of Avail Infrastructure Solutions.

07:37 EST Next.e.GO Mobile SE, cylib start strategic cooperation - Next.e.GO Mobile SE and cylib announced the start of a strategic cooperation. The first e.GO batteries have been transferred to cylib to enhance the recycling process and enable the recovery of all raw materials contained in the battery. This collaboration represents an important milestone promoting the circular economy within electromobility and ensuring the local safeguarding of crucial battery raw materials. The initiation of this partnership was formalized in late 2022, reflecting the joint commitment of both e.GO and cylib to improve the ecological footprint of electromobility. "Our goal is to facilitate a holistic and sustainable urban e-mobility paradigm, reimagined from inception to completion. From the flexible and capital-efficient production in our distinctive MicroFactory, minimizing energy and water consumption, to the enduring and versatile utility of our vehicles, we are committed to responsible resource utilization. The partnership with cylib underscores our vision for sustainability throughout the entire ecosystem, covering material selection, production, vehicle use, and their ultimate disposal and recycling. By providing our batteries to cylib, we aim to support the refinement of their innovative recycling process. We anticipate that the outcomes will provide invaluable insights into the parameters governing vehicle batteries, ultimately contributing to advancing their recycling potential," says Dr. Stefan Rudolf, CTO of Next.e.GO Mobile SE.

07:35 EST Kraken Robotics receives multiple survery service orders in Q4 - Kraken Robotics has received multiple survey service orders in Q4 to support offshore energy and infrastructure projects allowing the company to maintain strong utilization. These offshore project surveys valued at approximately $5 million include: Cable and pipeline depth of burial support in the Mediterranean Sea, Cable depth of burial assessment along a North Sea subsea interconnector cable, Cable burial assessment surveys within an offshore windfarm in the German North Sea, Cable burial assessment survey within two offshore windfarms off the coast of Taiwan, Buried boulder survey and analysis offshore Germany for windfarm foundation locations.

07:34 EST Tourmaline Bio appoints Clay Siegall as chairman of the board - Tourmaline Bio announced that Clay Siegall, PhD, has been appointed as Chairman of the Board. Siegall is currently President, CEO, and Chairman of the Board of Immunone.

07:32 EST Signing Day Sports announces AI initiatives to enhance platform - Signing Day Sports announced a series of new artificial intelligence initiatives, designed to enhance the platform. Upcoming AI features: The Company has implemented and, in some cases, expects to implement the following AI features over the next several months: Lead scraping AI technology to enhance customer identification and acquisition through personalized outreach based on metrics determined by experts. AI matchmaking for student-athletes to find the right fit based on criteria set by an institution. Integration of existing AI video-capturing hardware to streamline video upload and highlight tape creation. Use of AI technology to confirm and enhance visual biometrics of uploaded videos that will expand on data currently available through the platform. Standards assessed by AI and creation of grades/evaluations of tasks being completed based on metrics set by experts. Integration of AI chatbots that encourage student-athletes to spend more time on the app, including personalized nutritional plans, fitness plans, general recruiting education, and more.

07:15 EST Microbix Biosystems, Seegene jointly enhance lab testing accuracy - Microbix Biosystems announces a collaboration with Seegene USA. Under the parties' collaboration, Seegene USA will distribute and recommend Microbix's Quality Assessment Products, QAPs, to monitor the workflow accuracy of Seegene Novaplex and Allplex assays in use across the United States. Microbix QAPs are available to support PCR-based assays formatted on Copan FLOQSwabs and room-temperature stable, or in liquid vial format that are refrigerator-temperature stable. Microbix PROCEEDx brand QAPs are Research Use Only "RUO" samples, while its REDx brand QAPs are In-Vitro Diagnostic "IVD" Controls. Regular use of QAPs helps ensure the accuracy of laboratory-conducted assays. With this agreement, Seegene USA will begin offering Microbix's QAPs products, alongside its current portfolio of high multiplex PCR assays that test for infectious disease pathogens under its Allplex and Novaplex brands. These assays, using Seegene proprietary technology, are unique in their ability to produce high-multiplex results from a single channel in a PCR reaction.

07:13 EST Lifeist Wellness;s Mikra introduces immune support product Protect - Lifeist Wellness provides a sneak peek into its upcoming immune support product, Protect. Introduced by its U.S. biosciences subsidiary Mikra Cellular Sciences, Protect continues Lifeist's commitment to offering natural, science-backed solutions to its valued customers. Protect comes in a gummy format that combines the antioxidant power of Aronia berries with the reliable immune support functions of supplemental zinc and vitamin C2, complemented by vitamin D to tackle the shorter days in winter. "PROTECT is another example of our commitment to bringing science-backed natural solutions to market, marrying the antioxidant power of Aronia berries with the nutritional immune support of key vitamins, in the convenience of a gummy," said Meni Morim, CEO of Lifeist. "As we head into cold and flu season, PROTECT can provide a defensive boost to immunity -- and unlike pills and powders, can be taken on the go without water. We invite new and loyal customers to sign up at https://bit.ly/mikra-december to receive an invitation for a free trial pack of Protect with their discounted promotional bundle."

07:11 EST Brookfield Renewable announces renewal of normal course issuer bids - Brookfield Renewable today announced that the Toronto Stock Exchange has accepted notices filed by Brookfield Renewable Partners of its intention to renew its normal course issuer bids for its limited partnership units and Class A preferred limited partnership units; Brookfield Renewable Corporation of its intention to renew its normal course issuer bid for its outstanding class A exchangeable subordinate voting shares; and Brookfield Renewable Power Preferred Equity of its intention to renew its normal course issuer bid for its outstanding Class A preference shares. BRP Equity is a wholly-owned subsidiary of BEP. Brookfield Renewable believes that in the event that the LP Units, Preferred Units, Exchangeable Shares or Preferred Shares trade in a price range that does not fully reflect their value, the acquisition of such securities may represent an attractive use of available funds. There are currently four series of Preferred Units and five series of Preferred Shares outstanding and listed on the TSX. Under BEP's normal course issuer bid for LP Units, BEP is authorized to repurchase up to 14,361,497 LP Units, representing 5% of its issued and outstanding LP Units. At the close of business on December 6, 2023, there were 287,229,948 LP Units issued and outstanding. Under BEP's normal course issuer bid, it may repurchase up to 56,459 LP Units on the TSX during any trading day, which represents 25% of the average daily trading volume of 225,839 LP Units for the six months ended November 30, 2023. Under BEPC's normal course issuer bid for Exchangeable Shares, BEPC is authorized to repurchase up to 8,982,586 Exchangeable Shares, representing 5% of its issued and outstanding Exchangeable Shares. At the close of business on December 6, 2023, there were 179,651,726 Exchangeable Shares issued and outstanding. Under BEPC's normal course issuer bid, it may repurchase up to 54,658 Exchangeable Shares on the TSX during any trading day, which represents 25% of the average daily trading volume of 218,634 Exchangeable Shares for the six months ended November 30, 2023.

07:09 EST LNG Energy announces discovery in Bo-5 well - LNG Energy Group (LNGNF) announcde that its wholly owned subsidiary, Lewis Energy Colombia, along with Hocol (EC), spudded the Bullerengue Oeste-5 well on October 1, 2023 at the Sinu San Jacinto Norte 1 block, crossing the Lower Porquero formation and targeting the Chengue formation, and ultimately reaching a total depth of 7,542 feet measured depth on October 22, 2023. The Company currently has production from multiple wells from both formations. The Company has a 50% working interest in the SSJN-1 block and Hocol has the remaining 50% working interest. The Company has conducted production tests in the Chengue formation for 30 continuous days, delivering approximately 1.0 to 2.5 MMcf/d of natural gas and 30 to 80 bbl/d of oil at up to 21 degrees API. The production tests have been performed at chokes between 18/64 and 22/64 inches. The BO-5 well is already connected to the existing Bullerengue field facilities and volumes can be delivered to the market.

07:07 EST ZyVersa Therapeutics engages CRO Clinical for Phase 2a trial of VAR 200 - ZyVersa Therapeutics announces selection of contract research organization, CRO, George Clinical to manage its Phase 2a clinical trial with Cholesterol Efflux Mediator VAR 200 in patients with diabetic kidney disease. The clinical trial is expected to begin in the first quarter of 2024. George Clinical is a leading global CRO, headquartered in Sydney, Australia, with more than 500 experienced people in 39 locations providing the full range of clinical trial services to pharmaceutical, medical device, and diagnostic customers for all trial phases, registration, and post-marketing trials. "Initiation of the Phase 2a trial in patients with DKD marks a major milestone in the development of Cholesterol Efflux MediatorTM VAR 200 and for ZyVersa. It is the first clinical trial for VAR 200 and will help establish its effectiveness and safety in renal patients, and it will provide valuable insights to guide development for other planned renal indications," said Stephen C. Glover, ZyVersa's Co-founder, Chief Executive Officer, and Chairman. "We are pleased to partner with George Clinical to manage this important study."

07:06 EST Bicycle Therapeutics updates clinical programs at first 'R&D Day' - Bicycle Therapeutics is hosting a Research & Developmen R&D Day for investors and analysts in New York to provide clinical updates for BT8009, BT7480 and BT5528, and an overview of the company's strategy and pipeline opportunities. The company will also highlight the broad capabilities of its novel Bicycle platform technology. The event begins at 8 a.m. ET and will be available via webcast here. "During our first R&D Day, we are excited to showcase the advantages of our Nobel Prize-winning science and our strategy to discover and develop therapies with greater tolerability that could provide enhanced benefit to a multitude of patients, starting with those who have cancer," said Kevin Lee, Ph.D., CEO of Bicycle Therapeutics. "Through our Nectin-4 and EphA2 portfolios and the continued work on our platform, including through partnerships, we are building a leading precision-guided therapeutics company with the potential to address a wide range of diseases that affect millions of people around the world. We believe that our technology has the potential to not only help patients live longer but also to live well." "Today we are excited to provide clinical updates for our three lead programs," said Santiago Arroyo, M.D., Ph.D., Chief Development Officer of Bicycle Therapeutics. "In totality, the data support the emerging differentiated profile of our Bicycle molecules, paving the way to deliver best-in-class or first-in-class therapies for many cancers. Based on our clinical updates, we are taking important next steps with our development programs, setting up what we expect to be a catalyst-rich 2024."

07:05 EST H&R Block introduces H&R Block AI Tax Assist - H&R Block introduced H&R Block AI Tax Assist, a generative artificial intelligence experience designed to streamline the tax preparation process for individuals, the self-employed and small business owners to file and manage their taxes confidently. The technology combines the expertise H&R Block and its tax professionals have provided since 1955 with the power and efficiency of artificial intelligence to provide real-time, reliable tax filing assistance backed by H&R Block's 100% accuracy and maximum refund guarantees.

07:05 EST Glaukos announces FDA approval of iDose TR - Glaukos announced the FDA approved its new drug application, or NDA, for a single administration per eye of iDose TR 75 mcg, a prostaglandin analog indicated for the reduction of intraocular pressure, or IOP, in patients with ocular hypertension, or OHT, or open-angle glaucoma, or OAG.

07:04 EST Mobilicom receives follow-on commercial sale order from U.S. Defense Industry - Mobilicom announced it has received another follow-on commercial scale order from a U.S.-based Tier-1 customer. Mobilicom's SkyHopper PRO, a bi-directional cybersecure Software Defined Radio datalink system, is an essential component of this customer's drone platform which is being manufactured for the U.S. defense industry and other U.S. federal agencies. "This repeat commercial scale order from one the top U.S. defense manufacturers highlights the traction our field-proven technologies are gaining with the largest and most selective procurers in the market," stated Mobilicom CEO and Founder Oren Elkayam. "A growing number of our customers that have integrated Mobilicom systems into their product designs are progressing into production, and as they do so we anticipate recurring orders to meet commercial scale deliveries."

07:03 EST Apellis expects CHMP to adopt negative opinion on MAA for pegcetacoplan - Apellis Pharmaceuticals announced an update on the ongoing review of its marketing authorization application for intravitreal pegcetacoplan for the treatment of geographic atrophy secondary to age-related macular degeneration by the Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use of the European Medicines Agency. Following the oral explanation meeting on December 13, Apellis was informed of a negative trend vote on the MAA for pegcetacoplan. Apellis expects the CHMP to adopt a negative opinion at its next meeting, which is scheduled to be held January 22-25, 2024. If a negative opinion is adopted, Apellis plans to appeal the outcome and seek re-examination of the opinion. The MAA is based on results from the Phase 3 OAKS and DERBY studies at 24 months, which were published in The Lancet. Treatment with both every-other-month and monthly pegcetacoplan reduced GA lesion growth with increasing treatment effects over time and showed a well-demonstrated safety profile. Additionally, pegcetacoplan preserved visual function longer in multiple post hoc Phase 3 analyses that have been presented at medical congresses.

07:02 EST Ispire Technology signs five-year manufacturing and distribution agreement - Ispire Technology announced that Aspire North America, one of Ispire's operating subsidiaries, has entered a five-year exclusive global manufacturing and distribution agreement with a lifestyle brand, BrkFst, co-created by Burna Boy and entrepreneurs last year. Ispire has secured the exclusive rights to distribute and commercialize BrkFst branded vapor products, including a suite of unique varieties and new flavors. Ispire is a leader in vaping technology, research and development, design and innovation that is forging the worldwide industry standard for vaporized products. The company offers a complete line of pod-systems, cartridges, disposables, batteries and other vaping products. The products will be launched in Nigeria, Ghana and South Africa this month with full European Union and United Kingdom launches expected in Q2 2024.

06:53 EST Purple Biotech completes patient enrollment in Phase 2 pancreatic cancer trial - Purple Biotech (PPBT) has completed patient enrollment in a Phase 2 study of CM24, a multi-functional immune checkpoint inhibitor, for the treatment of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma - PDAC -. The Phase 2 study, in collaboration with Bristol Myers Squibb (BMY), is evaluating CM24 in combination with BMS's nivolumab plus chemotherapy in PDAC patients as a 2nd line treatment as compared to chemotherapy alone. The primary endpoint is overall survival. Approximately 60 patients have been enrolled. The trial was fully enrolled in advance of the anticipated 2024 timeline. An interim analysis of overall survival, the primary endpoint of the study is expected during 1H 2024 and topline analysis is expected in 2H 2024.

06:49 EST International Game chief accounting officer Tim Rishton to retire - International Game announced that Tim Rishton, IGT senior VP and chief accounting officer, will retire at the end of 2024, following 29 years with the company. Rishton will be succeeded by David Morgan, who will take on the role of IGT senior VP and chief accounting officer on January 1, 2024. During 2024, Tim will support this leadership transition.

06:43 EST Vista Gold unit enters royalty agreement with Wheaton Precious Metals affiliate - Vista Gold (VGZ) is pleased to announce that its wholly-owned subsidiary, Vista Gold Australia Pty. Ltd., has entered into a Royalty Agreement with an affiliate of Wheaton Precious Metals (WPM) dated December 13, 2023, in relation to the company's Mt Todd gold project located in Northern Territory, Australia. Pursuant to the terms of the Royalty Agreement, Vista Australia granted Wheaton a royalty in the amount of 1% of gross revenue from the sale or disposition of minerals from the Project, subject to adjustments in certain circumstances. In consideration for the Royalty, Wheaton will provide Vista with $20M to advance Mt Todd and for general corporate purposes. The transaction is subject to approval from the Australian government Foreign Investment Review Board. Wheaton has also been granted a Right of First Refusal on any royalties, streams or pre-pays pertaining to Mt Todd.

06:38 EST Moderna, Merck announc e follow-up data on V940 with Keytruda - Moderna (MRNA) and Merck (MRK) announced follow-up data from the Phase 2b randomized KEYNOTE-942/mRNA-4157-P201 study, a clinical trial evaluating mRNA-4157, V940, in combination with KEYTRUDA, Merck's anti-PD-1 therapy, in patients with resected high-risk melanoma following complete resection. In this planned analysis occurring with a median follow-up of approximately three years, adjuvant treatment with mRNA-4157 in combination with KEYTRUDA continued to demonstrate a clinically meaningful improvement in recurrence-free survival, reducing the risk of recurrence or death by 49% compared with KEYTRUDA alone. mRNA-4157 in combination with KEYTRUDA also continued to demonstrate a meaningful improvement in distant metastasis-free survival, compared with KEYTRUDA alone, reducing the risk of developing distant metastasis or death by 62%. Adverse events observed with mRNA-4157 in KEYNOTE-942 remain consistent with those previously reported. At a median planned follow-up of approximately three years, the number of patients reporting treatment-related Grade greater than or equal to 3 adverse events were similar between the arms for mRNA-4157 in combination with KEYTRUDA. The most common adverse events of any grade attributed to mRNA-4157 were fatigue, injection site pain, and chills. Based on data from the Phase 2b KEYNOTE-942/mRNA-4157-P201 study, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and European Medicines Agency granted Breakthrough Therapy Designation and the Priority Medicines scheme, respectively, for mRNA-4157 in combination with KEYTRUDA for the adjuvant treatment of patients with high-risk melanoma. Data from the primary analysis has been submitted for publication in a peer-reviewed journal.

06:34 EST Freight Technologies selected for Amazon Mexico business - Freight Technologies (FRGT) announces Amazon (AMZN) Mexico's renewed selection of Fr8App for its logistical solutions. Amazon Mexico has once again chosen Fr8App to navigate the logistic complexities of the high-demand season for the second consecutive year. To date, Fr8App has successfully moved a substantial quantity of more than 670 cargo loads between Amazon's distribution centers, demonstrating its pivotal role in maintaining a seamless flow of goods across the country for Amazon.

06:12 EST Cenovus Energy announces 2024 budget - Cenovus Energy announced its 2024 budget. Continuing with the growth plan embarked on in 2023, Cenovus expects to invest capital of $4.5B-$5.0B in 2024. This investment includes $1.5B-$2.0B of optimization and growth capital, primarily for progressing the West White Rose project as well as incrementally growing production at the Foster Creek, Christina Lake and Sunrise oil sands facilities. Additionally, Cenovus will implement further initiatives in its downstream business to improve reliability and increase margin capture as well as invest in opportunities in the Conventional business. Approximately $3.0B will be directed towards sustaining production and supporting continued safe and reliable operations. Total upstream production of 770K-810K barrels of oil equivalent per day with production from oil sands and thermal projects expected to be 590K-610K barrels per day, which reflects a turnaround at Christina Lake in Q3 2024. Total downstream crude throughput of 630K-670K bbls/d, an increase of approximately 17% compared to the prior year. Oil sands operating expenses per barrel of $12.00-$14.00 and U.S. refining operating expenses of $11.75-$13.75/bbl, which includes expensed turnaround costs. Oil sands production guidance for 2024 is 590K-610K bbls/d, which reflects a turnaround in Q3 at Christina Lake, with an expected annualized impact of approximately 13K-15K bbls/d. Oil sands operating costs are expected to be in the range of $12.00-$14.00/bbl in 2024, partially due to higher non-fuel costs associated with the Christina Lake turnaround. Plans to invest $2.5B-$2.75B of capital in its oil sands assets, including approximately $650M of growth and optimization capital, largely related to further advancing brownfield and multi-year growth opportunities that will increase production across its oil sands portfolio. Plans to invest $350M-$425M in its conventional assets. Total production is expected to be between 120K-130K BOE/d. Total Offshore production is expected to be 60K-70K BOE/d. This includes 10K-15K bbls/d in the Atlantic region. The SeaRose is expected to return to the field and resume production late in Q3 2024. Capital spending of $850M-$950M will be primarily directed towards the ongoing construction of the West White Rose project in the Atlantic region. First oil from the West White Rose project is expected in the first half of 2026, with peak production of approximately 45,000 bbls/d anticipated in 2028. Downstream crude throughput is expected to be 630K-670K bbls/d, representing a crude utilization rate of approximately 87%.Capital investment in the downstream business is projected to be $750M-$850M, including approximately $155M for growth and optimization capital, and will be primarily focused on safety and reliability initiatives across Cenovus's downstream businesses as well as optimization projects to enhance margin capture.

06:02 EST Barnwell Industries to sell Water Resources for gross proceeds of $2M - Barnwell Industries enters into an agreement for the sale of Water Resources International. Water Resources provides deep drilling and well pumping services needed in the exploration and development of groundwater resources for government, commercial and private clients in Hawaii. The sale to a local construction company is for gross proceeds of $2M, subject to customary post-closing price adjustments and the purchaser's completion of due diligence. Proceeds from the sale, which is expected to close in early 2024, will be used for general corporate purposes, with a focus towards reinvestment in the company's oil and gas operations. The transaction supports Barnwell's focus on simplifying its holding company operations and corporate structure. The proceeds from the sale will further the company's efforts to drill new wells at its Alberta, Canada, Twining field and to take positions in domestic energy assets as well.

05:25 EST Alcoa welcomes decisions that support Western Australian operations - Alcoa welcomed decisions from the Western Australian, or WA, Government that will allow the company to continue bauxite mining and downstream alumina refining in the state, while also pledging to enhance the way it operates to meet evolving requirements and expectations. The government has announced that it will approve Alcoa's latest five-year mine plan - known as the 2023-2027 Mining and Management Program, or MMP, for its Huntly and Willowdale bauxite mines. In addition, the government has granted an exemption that will allow Alcoa to continue its mining operations if the WA Environmental Protection Authority, or EPA, decides to undertake a separate environmental impact assessment on all or parts of the MMP. The EPA's determination is expected by year end. Alcoa will be subject to a range of stringent conditions addressing key environmental factors that will include enhanced protections for drinking water, including increased distances from reservoirs, and biodiversity along with accelerated forest rehabilitation. At the request of the state, the company will also provide a $66M guarantee, demonstrating Alcoa's confidence that its operations will not impair drinking water supplies. Clearing for mining in the Northern Jarrah Forest will be capped at 800 hectares per year and the current rate of rehabilitation will double to reach 1,000 hectares per year by 2027. Separately, Alcoa has committed to work with the WA Government to modernize the state agreements and the approvals framework for its two bauxite mines and three alumina refineries in the state. This includes transitioning all proposed new major mining regions to the more contemporary EPA assessment and approvals process. Alcoa started this process in 2020, when it referred its next two proposed mine regions for EPA assessment. These commitments are in addition to Alcoa's earlier decisions to forgo mining around the forest towns of Dwellingup and Jarrahdale to enhance protections for lifestyle and recreation values.

05:16 EST Seadrill announces new $250M share repurchase program - Seadrill recently completed its $250M share repurchase program which was announced in September. As announced on November 27, the board of directors of the company authorized additional share repurchases, allowing the repurchase of up to a further $250M of its outstanding common shares. The company is not obligated to repurchase any shares under the program. The additional authorization has no set time limit. In furtherance of the November authorization, the company announced that it has put in place an agreement with Fearnley Securities and its subsidiary, Fearnley Securities for the repurchase of the company's common shares in open market transactions on the OSE and the NYSE. Under this agreement, Fearnley will make its own trading decisions independently of, and uninfluenced by, the company, subject to instructions provided by the company in the agreement.

05:09 EST Becton Dickinson granted exclusive license by Bactiguard for Foley catheters - Bactiguard announced strengthened ties with Becton Dickinson. An interim agreement has been signed granting BD an exclusive global license, effective immediately, for Bactiguard coated Foley catheters, which is a first step on the strategy of phasing-out Bactiguard's medical device portfolio. The interim agreement to extend the partnership with BD includes sales exclusivity of Foleys not only in the US, Japan, UK, Canada, Ireland, and Australia, but now also the rest of the world and aims at limiting supply disruptions for current distributors and customers. The majority will be offered Bactiguard coated BD Foley catheters which have similar features and functionality to the Bactiguard Foley. It is both parties' expectations to enter into an expanded long-term license agreement during the first half of 2024.