Stockwinners Market Radar for April 03, 2024 - Earnings, Upgrades downgrades, option trades, Best Stock Advisory Service

20:52 EDT JetBlue expands Paris service with inaugural flight from Boston - JetBlue "announced it has expanded its Paris service with its inaugural flight from Boston, which departed today from Boston Logan International Airport. JetBlue's new flight between Boston and Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport follows the successful launch of service from New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport last summer and further builds on its transatlantic offering from its Boston focus city. In addition to Paris, JetBlue offers daily service to London, Amsterdam, and most recently initiated seasonal service to Dublin from Boston."

18:58 EDT A SPAC I Acquisition, NewGenIvf close business combination - NewGenIvf Limited, a comprehensive fertility services provider in Asia, and A SPAC I Acquisition Corp. announced the completion of their previously "announced business combination. The combined company will be named "NewGenIvf Group Limited" and its shares and warrants are expected to begin trading on the Nasdaq Capital Market under the tickers "NIVF", and "NIVFW", respectively, on April 4, 2024." Shares of A SPAC I Acquisition are up 38% afterhours at $4.15.

18:49 EDT Twilio CFO sells 6,633 class A shares - In a regulatory filing, Twilio CFO Aidan Viggiano disclosed the sale of 6,633 class A common shares of the company on April 1 at a price of $62.1249 per share.

18:03 EDT CCC Intelligent Solutions CSO Fredman sells 28,804 common shares - In a regulatory filing, CCC Intelligent Solutions chief strategy officer Marc Fredman disclosed the sale of 28,804 common shares of the company on April 1 at a price of $11.97 per share.

17:32 EDT Palisade Bio announces 1-for-15 reverse stock split - Palisade Bio announced a 1-for-15 reverse split of its common stock effective at 5:00 PM ET on Friday April 5, 2024. The reverse stock split was approved by Palisade Bio's stockholders at the virtual special meeting of stockholders held on March 25, 2024. The reverse stock split is primarily intended to increase the Company's per share trading price and bring the Company into compliance with the Nasdaq's listing requirement regarding minimum share price.

17:25 EDT Fisker withdraws FY24 guidance, continues to evaluation strategic alternatives - In a regulatory filing, the company stated: "As previously disclosed, the Company continues to evaluate strategic alternatives. Such alternatives may include in or out of court restructurings, capital markets transactions, repurchases, redemptions, exchanges or other refinancings of the Company's existing debt, the potential issuance of equity securities, the potential sale of assets and businesses and/or other strategic transactions and/or other measures. These alternatives involve significant uncertainties, potential significant delays, costs and other risks, and there can be no assurance that any of these alternatives will be available on acceptable terms, or at all, in the current market environment or in the foreseeable future. The Company has determined to withdraw all financial and operational guidance for the year 2024 that was previously disclosed by the Company on February 29, 2024, and will forego providing any updated guidance while it continues to evaluate strategic alternatives."

17:17 EDT Thermon Group CFO Kevin Fox stepping down - Thermon Group CFO Kevin Fox will be departing Thermon to pursue another opportunity, effective April 12. The company has begun a search to consider both internal and external candidates for the CFO role. During this transition period, Greg Lucas, Vice President and Corporate Controller, will assume the roles of principal financial officer and principal accounting officer of the company. Lucas joined the company in 2021 as Corporate Controller, and he will also continue to serve in this role during this interim period

17:14 EDT GitLab CFO sells $3.37M in common stock - In a regulatory filing, GitLab disclosed that its CFO Brian Robins sold 60K shares of common stock on April 1st in a total transaction size of $3.37M.

17:02 EDT Exxon sees up to $1B profit hit from change in gas, liquids prices to Q1 results - In a regulatory filing, Exxon Mobil provided a summary of items management believes will impact 1Q 2024 results relative to 4Q 2023 results. The company sees an up to $400M hit to Q1 results from a change in liquids prices, as well as a $200M-$600M hit from a change in gas prices.

16:46 EDT Patterson-UTI reports March drilling activity - Patterson-UTI reported that for the month of March 2024, the company had an average of 120 drilling rigs operating in the United States. For the three months ended March 31, 2024, the company had an average of 121 drilling rigs operating in the United States.

16:37 EDT Encompass Health to build 50-bed rehabilitation hospital in San Antonio - Encompass Health announced preliminary plans to build a freestanding, 50-bed inpatient rehabilitation hospital in San Antonio. The hospital, located in Westover Hills, will serve patients recovering from debilitating illnesses and injuries, including strokes and other neurological disorders, brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, amputations and complex orthopedic conditions. The hospital will be part of Encompass Health's national network of rehabilitation hospitals, and it will complement the company's existing Texas footprint of 27 hospitals with two currently under development in Houston and Amarillo.

16:35 EDT Lunar Dawn team awarded NASA Lunar Terrain Vehicle contract - NASA has awarded a Lunar Terrain Vehicle Services contract to the Lunar Dawn team, led by Lunar Outpost as the prime contractor along with its principal partner Lockheed Martin (LMT) and teammates General Motors (GM), The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company (GT), and MDA Space. The diverse team combines proven robotic and human space exploration heritage, cutting edge technology and automotive industry strengths to create a true off-road vehicle for living and working on the Moon's surface

16:32 EDT SandRidge Energy names Dean Parrish as COO - SandRidge Energy announced that Dean Parrish has been appointed to serve as the company's Senior Vice President and COO, effective April 1. Prior to joining the company in January 2012, Parrish was employed at EXCO Resources as a Production Engineer.

16:17 EDT NASA awards Intuitive Machines $30M Lunar Terrain Vehicle contract - NASA has awarded Intuitive Machines $30M as a prime contractor to complete a Lunar Terrain Vehicle Services Feasibility Assessment. The contract tasks the Company's global team with creating a feasibility roadmap to develop and deploy a Lunar Terrain Vehicle on the Moon using Intuitive Machines' Nova-D cargo-class lunar lander. The first phase award marks the Company's entrance into human spaceflight operations within NASA's $4.6B LTV Services project. "This procurement strategically aligns with the Company's flight-proven capability to deliver payloads to the surface of the Moon under the agency's Commercial Lunar Payload Services initiative, further solidifying our position as a proven commercial contractor in lunar exploration," said Intuitive Machines CEO Steve Altemus. "Our global team is on a path to provide essential lunar infrastructure services to NASA in a project that would allow the Company to retain ownership of the vehicle for commercial utilization during periods of non-NASA activity over approximately ten years of lunar surface activity."

16:16 EDT Intuitive Machines among those selected by NASA for lunar terrain vehicle - NASA said it has selected Intuitive Machines (LUNR) , Lunar Outpost, and Venturi Astrolab to advance capabilities for a lunar terrain vehicle that Artemis astronauts will use to travel around the lunar surface. NASA will acquire the lunar terrain vehicle as a service from industry. The indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity, milestone-based Lunar Terrain Vehicle Services contract with firm-fixed-price task orders has a combined maximum potential value of $4.6B for all awards. Each provider will begin with a feasibility task order, which will be a year-long special study to develop a system that meets NASA's requirements through the preliminary design maturity project phase. Reference Link

16:16 EDT Smith Micro announces 1-for-8 reverse stock split - Smith Micro Software announced that the Company's Board of Directors has approved a 1-for-8 reverse split of the Company's Common Stock, par value $0.001 per share. The Reverse Split was approved by the Company's stockholders at a special meeting held on April 3, 2024. The Reverse Split will legally take effect at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time, on April 10, 2024.

16:13 EDT Levi Strauss reports Q1 gross margin 58.2% vs. 55.8% last year - The company states: "Gross margin was up 240 basis points to 58.2% from 55.8% in Q1 2023 primarily due to lower product costs and favorable mix shift." CFO Harmit Singh noted: "The structural economics of our business improved in Q1 driven by significant gross margin expansion, disciplined expense controls and efficient working capital management. Our global productivity initiative, Project Fuel, is progressing well and improving the profitability of the company. Looking forward, we are encouraged by trends in our business, around the world, including in Europe. As a result, we are confident in our ability to return the topline to mid-single-digit growth in the second half of this year and are increasing our full year EPS expectations."

16:08 EDT Olin files trade cases against five countries with other U.S. resin producers - Olin announced the filing of antidumping and countervailing duty petitions against five countries related to certain epoxy resins, as part of the U.S. Epoxy Resin Producers Ad Hoc Coalition. The petitions charge that unfairly traded imports of certain epoxy resins from China, India, South Korea, Taiwan, and Thailand are causing material injury to the domestic epoxy resin industry. The petitions further charge that significant subsidies have been provided to the foreign producers by the governments of China, India, South Korea, and Taiwan. The U.S. producers in the Coalition, including Olin, produce epoxy resins, an essential component for which there are no practical substitutes, for various customer applications, including critical U.S. industries. The petitions were filed with the Department of Commerce and the U.S. International Trade Commission. The petitions also allege that the foreign producers benefit from numerous countervailable subsidies. The petitions allege that producers in the subject countries have injured the U.S. epoxy resin producers by selling their products at unfairly low prices that significantly undercut the prices of U.S. producers.

16:06 EDT ASA Limited increases semi-annual dividend to 2c per share from 1c - ASA Gold and Precious Metals Limited announced that it has declared a distribution of $0.02 per common share of the Company payable on May 16, 2024 to shareholders of record of the Company's common shares as of the close of business on May 6, 2024. This distribution represents a $0.01 per common share increase in the Company's distribution, doubling the rate per share that has been paid on a semi-annual basis since November 2018.

16:06 EDT Radiant Logistics acquires operations of Viking Worldwide, terms not disclosed - Radiant Logistics announced it has acquired the operations of Viking Worldwide, a Minnesota based, privately held company with operations in both Minneapolis, Minnesota and Houston, Texas that has operated under the company's Service By Air brand since 2012. The company structured the transaction similar to its previous transactions, with a portion of the expected purchase price payable in subsequent periods based on the future performance of the acquired operations. Founded in 1993, Viking services a diversified account base specializing in the high-tech, brand management, life-sciences, and trade show industries from its strategically located mid-west gateway location in metro Minneapolis/St. Paul. On a post-closing basis, Viking will continue to operate under the Service By Air brand and is expected to transition to the Radiant brand over the course of 2024 as Viking's Minneapolis operations combine with existing company-owned operations in the area.

16:03 EDT Standard BioTools announces multi-year agreement with Bristol Myers - Standard BioTools (LAB) announced that it has entered into a multi-year engagement with global biopharmaceutical company Bristol Myers Squibb (BMY) for use of the SomaScan Platform as a tool for clinical trials in multiple therapeutic areas through 2026. "Bristol Myers Squibb is focused on the discovery and development of medicines that have the potential for transformational patient outcomes, and to achieve that end, we understand how critical it is to prospectively identify the patient populations most likely to benefit from our therapies," says Peter Schafer, Scientific VP, Translational Medicine, Bristol Myers Squibb. "Leveraging the SomaScan Platform in clinical trials enables important progress toward defining the path to clinical proof-of-concept for our pipeline, helping to increase the probabilities of success in providing important new medicines for patients in need."

14:43 EDT Ubisoft to host Forward event on June 10 - Ubisoft announced that it will host a Ubisoft Forward event on June 10, 2024, during which it will provide updates on upcoming game releases. The Fly notes that while E3 isn't coming back, companies are still hosting major reveal events during the summer as loosely part of Summer Game Fest. Reference Link

14:33 EDT Gildan up 2% to $37.26 after Globe and Mail report on buyout offer deadline

14:09 EDT Shares of Helius Medical pop 10% after PoNS Therapy partnership with Lovell - Shares of neurotechnology medical company, Helius Medical were up 10% on Wednesday to trade as high as $8.50 per share after the company reported it has teamed with Lovell Government Services , an SBA-certified Service Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business to make the company's portable neuromodulation stimulator or PoNS device available to federal healthcare systems. PoNS is indicated in the U.S. for use as a short-term treatment of gait deficit in adults with mild-to-moderate symptoms from MS when used in conjunction with physical therapy.

13:43 EDT North American rail traffic up 1.8% for the week ending March 30 - The Association of American Railroads or AAR reported U.S. rail traffic for the week ending March 30. Total U.S. weekly rail traffic was 472,651 carloads and intermodal units, up 3.2% compared with the same week last year. Total carloads for the week ending March 30 were 218,733 carloads, down 3.2% compared with the same week in 2023, while U.S. weekly intermodal volume was 253,918 containers and trailers, up 9.3% compared to 2023. Eight of the 10 carload commodity groups posted an increase compared with the same week in 2023. They included grain, up 1,849 carloads, to 20,934; motor vehicles and parts, up 1,387 carloads, to 16,260; and chemicals, up 1,319 carloads, to 33,508. Commodity groups that posted decreases compared with the same week in 2023 were coal, down 13,750 carloads, to 51,603; and metallic ores and metals, down 1,279 carloads, to 21,129. North American rail volume for the week ending March 30, on 10 reporting U.S., Canadian, and Mexican railroads totaled 328,007 carloads, down 4.1% compared with the same week last year, and 335,908 intermodal units, up 8.2% compared with last year. Total combined weekly rail traffic in North America was 663,915 carloads and intermodal units, up 1.8%. North American rail volume for the first 13 weeks of 2024 was 8,462,498 carloads and intermodal units, up 1.8% compared with 2023.Publicly traded companies in the space include CSX (CSX), Canadian National (CNI), Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CP), Kansas City Southern (KSU), Norfolk Southern (NSC), Union Pacific (UNP), Greenbrier (GBX),Trinity Industries (TRN), FreightCar America (RAIL), Wabtec (WAB) and Rail Vision (RVSN). Reference Link

13:26 EDT Trian 'disappointed' with outcome of Disney proxy contest - The Trian Group, which beneficially owns over $3.5B of common stock in The Walt Disney Company, commented on the preliminary results from Disney's 2024 Annual Meeting of Shareholders, which indicated that Nelson Peltz and Jay Rasulo were not elected to Disney's Board of Directors. Trian issued the following statement on today's results: "While we are disappointed with the outcome of this proxy contest, Trian greatly appreciates all of the support and dialogue we have had with Disney stakeholders. We are proud of the impact we have had in refocusing this Company on value creation and good governance. Since we re-engaged with the Company in late 2023, Disney has announced a host of new operating initiatives and capital improvement plans. The Board has been refreshed with two new directors. Over the last six months, Disney's stock is up approximately 50% and is the Dow Jones Industrial Average's best performer year-to-date. We thank Trian's investors for the confidence they have placed in our efforts. And, we wish the best for all of the Company's stakeholders, including Disney's Board and management team. We will be watching the Company's performance and be focusing on its continued success."

13:23 EDT Disney's Iger wins proxy vote against Trian, Blackwells over board nominees - At its Annual Meeting of Shareholders, Disney said its full director slate has been voted in over thte Trian and Blackwells nominees with a "wide margin."

13:11 EDT Peltz says Disney long-term track record 'remains disappointing' - At its Annual Meeting of Shareholders, Disney began by naming its nominees for the board, recommending that all its candidates be placed on the board. In response, Trian Partners' Nelson Peltz, who is seeking seats on the media giant's board for his own slate of nominees, said that the long-term track record at Disney "remains disappointing," adding that he believes the board bears responsibility for this track record. Disney said its board of directors does not endorse the Trian or Blackwells nominees and recommended against their proposal.

12:52 EDT Logistic Properties of The Americas trading halted, volatility trading pause

12:02 EDT Unisys names Ruchi Kulhari as SVP, chief human resources officer - Unisys announced the appointment of Ruchi Kulhari as the company's senior vice president and chief human resources officer, effective immediately. She will report to Unisys Chair and CEO Peter Altabef. Most recently, she served as chief people officer at Coforge.

12:00 EDT ZKH Group rises 14.7% - ZKH Group is up 14.7%, or $2.36 to $18.46.

12:00 EDT Auna falls -6.9% - Auna is down -6.9%, or -68c to $9.20.

12:00 EDT GCT Semiconductor falls -53.7% - GCT Semiconductor is down -53.7%, or -$8.33 to $7.17.

11:36 EDT Brand Engagement Network Inc trading resumes

11:31 EDT Brand Engagement Network Inc trading halted, volatility trading pause

11:00 EDT Phillips 66 increases quarterly dividend 10% to $1.15 per share - The board of directors of Phillips 66 has declared a quarterly dividend of $1.15 per share on Phillips 66 common stock, representing a 10% increase. The dividend is payable on June 3, 2024, to shareholders of record as of the close of business on May 20, 2024. "The dividend increase reflects the confidence we have in our growing mid-cycle cash flow generation and disciplined approach to capital allocation, including a secure, competitive and growing dividend," said Mark Lashier, president and CEO of Phillips 66.

10:49 EDT FDA says Eli Lilly's Zepbound at limited availability through April

10:10 EDT Fat Brands enters development agreement to bring 25 Fazoli's locations to Canada - FAT Brands announces a new development agreement in partnership with franchisee Briwin Restaurants Inc. to bring 25 Fazoli's locations to Canada over the next ten years with the first units expected to open in 2025 in the province of Alberta.

10:00 EDT WisdomTree rises 5.4% - WisdomTree is up 5.4%, or 49c to $9.53.

10:00 EDT Signet Jewelers rises 12.5% - Signet Jewelers is up 12.5%, or $11.93 to $107.00.

10:00 EDT e.l.f. Beauty falls -7.9% - e.l.f. Beauty is down -7.9%, or -$14.76 to $171.17.

09:50 EDT JPMorgan launches digital media business Chase Media Solutions - JPMorgan this morning announced the launch of Chase Media Solutions, the bank's new digital media business. Chase Media will provide brands "with the ability to connect directly with the financial institution's 80 million customers." The company said, "Chase Media Solutions serves as a key conduit for brands, connecting them with consumers' personal passions and interests. In turn, Chase customers benefit from personalized offers and the ability to earn cash back with brands they love or are discovering for the first time. As the only bank-led media platform of its kind, Chase Media Solutions combines the scale and audience of a retail media network with the exclusive advantages of Chase's first-party financial data, institutional credibility and precise targeting capabilities."

09:47 EDT Stewart falls -7.6% - Stewart is down -7.6%, or -$4.80 to $58.48.

09:47 EDT WisdomTree rises 5.1% - WisdomTree is up 5.1%, or 46c to $9.50.

09:47 EDT Signet Jewelers rises 6.5% - Signet Jewelers is up 6.5%, or $6.19 to $101.26.

09:44 EDT Ulta Beauty shares down 11% to $462.82 as company speaks at JP Morgan conference

09:43 EDT Ulta Beauty sinks 11% after comp comments at JPMorgan conference

09:41 EDT Identiv trading resumes

09:36 EDT Identiv trading halted, volatility trading pause

09:30 EDT Keyarch Acquisition Corp trading halted, volatility trading pause

09:24 EDT PubMatic's Instacart ads integration 'to leverage retail media data across CTV - PubMatic (PUBM) announced a new partnership with Instacart (CART) to leverage its first-party, retail media data off of Instacart in a privacy-compliant, scalable, and effective programmatic advertising solution via PubMatic's Convert. Mars will be one of the first brands to activate Instacart's retail media data with PubMatic via deal ID for CTV and premium video campaigns to enhance their advertising ROI. "Advertisers today are grappling with signal loss and looking for new ways to effectively target and measure their campaigns," said Tim Castelli, Vice President of Global Advertising Sales at Instacart. "Brands realize that Instacart's retail media data is a valuable, performant solution. CPGs can reach consumers directly at the point of purchase with Instacart Ads on our platform with trusted closed-loop measurement, in addition to leveraging our rich, first-party retail media data off-platform to power and enhance all of their other ad buys, like CTV and premium video." PubMatic's partnership with Instacart coincides with the company's recent expansion of commerce media solutions. In 2023, PubMatic launched Convert, to empower commerce media networks with a single, self-service platform that streamlines the complex and fragmented commerce media marketplace.

09:22 EDT Ford reports Q1 U.S. sales up 6.8% to 508,083 units - Maverick Hybrid sales were up 77 percent over a year ago on sales of 19,660. Overall hybrid sales in Q1 were up 42 percent on sales of 38,421 vehicles. Across Ford electric vehicles, sales started the year strong, up 86 percent. Ford sold 20,223 EVs in Q1.

09:20 EDT VivoPower announces up to $5M stock buyback program - VivoPower International announced that its Board of Directors has authorized a capital management strategy including a stock buyback program pursuant to which the Company is authorized to purchase up to $5 million of the Company's outstanding common stock. The Stock Buyback Program has an expiration date of April 3, 2025 and may be suspended, terminated, amended or modified by the Board at any time without prior notice at the Board's discretion.

09:19 EDT American Battery awarded $20M tax credit to advance battery recycling facility - American Battery was selected for an approximately $20M award through the Qualifying Advanced Energy Project Credits program. This award was granted by the Department of Treasury IRS following a highly competitive technical and economic review process performed by the Department of Energy, which evaluated the feasibility of applicant facilities to advance America's buildout of globally competitive critical material recycling, processing, and refining infrastructure. The company was awarded a $20M tax credit through a competitive Department of Energy process which will support the advancement of this facility and provide capital expenditures to accelerate deployment of the company's next phase of critical battery minerals manufacturing. This $20M award can be utilized both for the reimbursement of capital expenditures spent to date, and also for equipment and infrastructure for additional value-add operations at ABTC's battery recycling facility in the Tahoe-Reno Industrial Center in Storey County, Nevada.

09:17 EDT SuRo Capital announces expiration, final results of tender offer - SuRo Capital announced its final results from its modified "Dutch Auction" tender offer. The Company's Tender Offer expired at 5:00 P.M., Eastern Time, on April 1, 2024. The Tender Offer was made pursuant to an Offer to Purchase dated February 20, 2024 and the related Letter of Transmittal, by which the Company offered to purchase up to 2,000,000 shares of its common stock at a price per share not less than $4.00 and not greater than $5.00 in $0.10 increments, using available cash, which documents were filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on February 20, 2024. In accordance with the Company's previously announced Tender Offer, and based on the final count by Equiniti Trust Company, LLC, the depositary for the Tender Offer, the Company will repurchase 2,000,000 shares, representing 7.9% of its outstanding shares, for payment on or about April 5, 2024, at a price of $4.70 per share on a pro rata basis, excluding fees and expenses relating to the self-tender offer. The per share purchase price of properly tendered shares represents 58.8% of net asset value per share based as of December 31, 2023. The Company, in conjunction with Equiniti Trust Company, LLC, has determined the final proration factor for the tender offer is approximately 69.3%. The Company is funding the repurchase of shares in the Tender Offer using a portion of its cash on hand.

09:14 EDT Xoma announces closing of tender offer - XOMA Corporation announced the Company has completed its previously announced tender offer to acquire all outstanding shares of Kinnate Biopharma common stock for a price per share of $2.5879 in cash, plus one non-tradeable contingent value right representing the right to receive 85% of the net proceeds from any out license or sale of Kinnate programs effected within one year of closing of the merger and 100% of the net proceeds resulting from Kinnate's sale of exarafenib and other pan-RAF program assets to Pierre Fabre Laboratories, as announced on March 1, 2024. The tender offer and related withdrawal rights expired one minute after 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on Tuesday, April 2, 2024. As of the Expiration Date, a total of 38,258,681 shares of Kinnate common stock were validly tendered, and not validly withdrawn, representing approximately 81% of the outstanding shares of Kinnate common stock as of the Expiration Date. As of the Expiration Date, the number of shares validly tendered in accordance with the terms of the tender offer and not validly withdrawn satisfied the minimum tender condition, and all other conditions to the tender offer were satisfied or waived. Immediately after the Expiration Date, XOMA irrevocably accepted for payment all shares validly tendered and not validly withdrawn and expects to promptly pay for such shares. Following the closing of the tender offer, XOMA merged Kinnate with and into a subsidiary, XRA 1, and all shares of Kinnate common stock that had not been validly tendered were converted into the right to receive the Offer Price. As a result of the Merger, Kinnate became a wholly owned subsidiary of XOMA. Prior to the opening of trading on The Nasdaq Stock Market on April 3, 2024, all shares of Kinnate common stock will cease trading on Nasdaq, and Kinnate intends promptly to cause such shares to be delisted from Nasdaq and deregistered under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.

09:13 EDT Spar Group announces 2.5M share repurchase authorization - SPAR Group announces the filing of a plan approved by the Board of Directors for a repurchase of up to 2,500,000 of SGRP's shares of common stock."Our new stock repurchase plan authorization provides a means to opportunistically buy back our stock and return value to shareholders. This is one of many initiatives we are implementing to create long-term value for our shareholders, while we prudently manage our balance sheet and focus on growth," said Mike Matacunas, SPAR Group CEO. The plan has been filed with the SEC effective today, April 3.

09:09 EDT Edible Garden aims initiative at vertical integration of Grand Rapids facility - Edible Garden announced a new initiative aimed at vertical integration of its Edible Garden Heartland facility in Grand Rapids, Michigan, allowing the Company to shift production of its potted herbs from contract-growers to in-house production which is expected to enhance the Company's margins. Mr. Jim Kras, Chief Executive Officer of Edible Garden, commented, "As a result of our vertical integration initiative, I am pleased to announce we are now shipping the USDA Organic potted herbs produced at our Edible Garden Heartland facility to major distribution partners in the Midwest.... Having Edible Garden Heartland operate at a higher capacity enables us to shift from contract growers to in-house production, starting with potted herbs. We believe this vertical integration illustrates our commitment to maximizing the operating efficiency of our facilities as we forge ahead toward our goal of profitability."

09:06 EDT DexCom publishes annual sustainability report - DexCom released its annual Sustainability Report. This report provides updates on key corporate sustainability initiatives that are aligned with Dexcom's core values and business strategy. "We are always working to advance the interests of our stakeholders, including our global customer base, employees and their families, caregivers, our communities, and our shareholders," said Kevin Sayer, chairman, president and CEO of Dexcom. "We see an inherent connection between sustainability and strategy and look forward to continuing to drive advances in global health through access to Dexcom CGM technology."

09:04 EDT Forrester's generative AI tool available to all Forrester Decisions clients - Forrester announced the availability of its generative AI tool, Izola, for all Forrester Decisions clients. As genAI fundamentally reshapes the way individuals interact with information, Izola is designed to help Forrester's clients accelerate progress on their top initiatives through a rapid synthesis of Forrester's research, data, and insights.

09:03 EDT Aon plc CFO Christa Davies to retire in 2025 - Aon plc announced that Christa Davies, EVP and CFO, has decided to retire in 2025 after more than 16 years at the firm. Davies will continue to serve as Aon's CFO into Q3, after certifying Q2 results, and then take on the role of senior advisor to the firm into 2025 to assist with the transition. Aon has activated its succession planning process to identify the firm's next CFO. Aon's Board of Directors approved a two-year extension of CEO Greg Case's employment agreement to April 1, 2028. Davies joined Aon in 2007 and has served as CFO since 2008.

09:00 EDT Asensus Surgical trading resumes

08:59 EDT Lifeist Wellness initiates restructuring proceedings for CannMart Labs - Lifeist Wellness has commenced restructuring proceedings pursuant to the Bankruptcy and Insolvency Act for one of its wholly owned subsidiaries, CannMart Labs. The restructuring of CannMart Labs is part of a broader strategic initiative to enhance the company's operational effectiveness while maintaining its commitment to innovation and growth. It is important to note that this restructuring does not impact CannMart Inc., Lifeist's flagship subsidiary and a leading distributor of licensed and in-house branded adult-use cannabis and cannabis-derived products in Canada. Following the vote of shareholders at the Company's recent annual general and special meeting rejecting the sale of the CannMart Group, Lifeist's cannabis operating division, management undertook a bottom-up review of the businesses to identify opportunities for optimization and improvement. The decision to restructure CannMart Labs was made with input from advisors and legal counsel, with the objective of achieving sustainable growth toward future profitability for the benefit of all Lifeist shareholders. This strategic move is part of a broader commitment to ensure the long-term success of the public company. While the restructuring does not apply to CannMart Inc., this strategic move aims to optimize operational efficiency and streamline the company's focus in alignment with its long-term vision. The decision to initiate restructuring proceedings for CannMart Labs underscores Lifeist's dedication to adaptability and resilience in navigating the dynamic landscape of the cannabis industry. By optimizing the operational structure of CannMart Labs, Lifeist aims to bolster its ability to deliver innovative wellness solutions that positively impact the lives of its customers.

08:52 EDT Stabilis Energy expects to become major supplier of rocket propellant - Stabilis Solutions provided a business update highlighting expectations for increased, multi-year demand growth for high-purity LNG fuel from the commercial space launch market. The company said, " U.S. rapidly becoming the global leader in commercial rocket launch activity. Demand for next generation connectivity and observational capabilities has contributed to a historic increase in U.S. commercial rocket launch activity. Over the last 10 years, the number of U.S. launches has increased by more than 400%, while accounting for more than 50% of total global launches in 2023. U.S. led demand for high-purity LNG continues to grow as a preferred fuel for commercial rockets, allowing for quicker turnaround of reusable boosters, improved engine efficiency and thrust, and ease of storage. Stabilis is positioned to remain the largest supplier of next generation fuel to the domestic space economy. In 2024, the Company anticipates its aerospace market-related volumes will increase by more than 40% over the prior year, representing approximately 10% of its full-year sales volumes. Over the next five years, domestic demand for high-purity LNG is expected to increase by 65% to approximately 25 million gallons annually. Stabilis estimates that it is among the largest suppliers of high-purity LNG to space launch providers in the U.S., currently supplying approximately 40% of the market, with the potential to significantly increase its market share subject to future investments in liquefaction capacity."

08:49 EDT Mynaric begins volume production for CONDOR Mk3 - Mynaric announced a milestone in the product maturity of the company's flagship free space optical communications terminal for space-to-space and space-to-ground applications - the CONDOR Mk3. Volume production for the optical communications terminal began early in the first quarter of 2024 with an initial shipment made last week following customer approval. Initial shipments of the CONDOR Mk3 free space optical communications system will be part of the United States Space Development Agency Tranche 1 Transport and Tracking Layer programs, among others. Mynaric was selected by Northrop Grumman as the sole supplier of optical communications terminals for the SDA's Tranche 1 Transport and Tracking Layer programs and by York Space Systems for the SDA's Tranche 1 Transport Layer. Mynaric was also selected by Loft Federal to supply the CONDOR Mk3 terminals to NExT - the SDA's Experimental Testbed.

08:47 EDT Asensus Surgical enters non-binding LOI with KARL STORZ - Asensus Surgical has entered into a non-binding letter of intent with KARL STORZ SE & Co. KG, an independent, family-owned global medical technology company to engage in diligence and negotiations regarding the terms of a potential transaction whereby KARL STORZ may acquire Asensus. Entry into the letter of intent follows an extensive period of consideration of various strategic alternatives by Asensus, including potential collaboration and licensing transactions, a go-it-alone strategy dependent upon raising significant additional equity capital, a sale of the Company and other potential business development transactions. The Company's Board of Directors has approved entry into the letter of intent, which includes KARL STORZ' proposal to acquire 100% of the issued and outstanding shares of Asensus' common stock for a purchase price of $0.35 per share in cash. This represents a 66.7% premium to the closing price of Asensus common stock on the NYSE American exchange on April 2nd, 2024. KARL STORZ has communicated that the proposed purchase price represents its "best and final" offer to the Company. The letter of intent provides that during an exclusivity period of up to ten weeks Asensus will not engage in negotiations for alternative transactions. During the exclusivity period, KARL STORZ will be conducting diligence and the parties will be negotiating a definitive merger agreement. Both the Company and KARL STORZ have the option to terminate pursuit of the proposed transaction. In conjunction with the letter of intent, Asensus has entered into a fully secured Promissory Note with KARL STORZ. The Bridge Loan will enable Asensus to receive a loan of up to $20 million from KARL STORZ to support the Company's operations through the exclusivity period, signing of a definitive merger agreement, if any, and close of the proposed transaction, if the proposed transaction proceeds and is approved by stockholders. The Bridge Loan will provide up to $10 million of liquidity during the exclusivity period. If a definitive merger agreement is successfully negotiated and executed, additional funding in an aggregate amount of up to $10 million will be available under the Bridge Loan to fund operations while the Company pursues stockholder approval. Today the Company is filing a Current Report on Form 8-K to describe the Bridge Loan transaction, including the security interests being provided. Asensus and KARL STORZ plan to work diligently during the exclusivity period to negotiate and finalize a definitive merger agreement. If a definitive merger agreement is entered into, Asensus will work expeditiously to secure stockholder approval of the transaction and to close the transaction in accordance with the terms of the definitive merger agreement. A Transaction Committee of the Board of Directors has been formed to consider the terms of a definitive merger agreement and to make a recommendation to the full Board of Directors for approval prior to execution of any definitive merger agreement and submission of the proposed transaction to stockholders for a vote. The Company cannot provide any assurance that it will be able to agree on final terms with KARL STORZ for a definitive merger agreement. Any transaction is subject to, among other conditions, completion of due diligence by KARL STORZ, negotiation of a definitive merger agreement, a recommendation by the Transaction Committee and approval by the Board of Directors and stockholders, and other customary closing conditions to be included in the definitive merger agreement, if any. If the proposed transaction is consummated, Asensus will cease to be a publicly traded company. If negotiations are terminated during the exclusivity period, or, if entered into, the definitive merger agreement is terminated, KARL STORZ will cease to provide any additional bridge financing and the Company will be required to repay the Bridge Loan to KARL STORZ within a prescribed period. The Company does not intend to comment further about the proposed transaction unless and until a definitive merger agreement is signed or discussions between the parties are otherwise terminated.

08:44 EDT Voltrek says $11M of EV charging construction services deals finalized in FY24 - Orion Energy Systems announced significant progress in its EV charging business through its electric vehicle, EV charging solutions division, Voltrek. Voltrek has successfully secured more than $11M of open construction services contracts under the Eversource "EV Make Ready" program. These contracts were finalized in FY'24 and represent over 25 individual projects from Eversource Energy, a leading utility focused on sustainability and energy efficiency. These projects were all previously included in Orion's revenue outlook expectations and are now all contracted and expected to be executed within Orion's fiscal year 2025, which started April 1. This achievement underscores the increasing demand for EV charging solutions and reaffirms Voltrek's position as a trusted industry partner. "We are excited to showcase our diverse range of projects and products, which highlight our commitment to flexibility, innovation, and customer satisfaction," said Voltrek's President, Kathleen Connors. "Our longstanding relationship with Eversource has continued to grow as we head into FY25 with over $11M contracted together to support EV infrastructure in the northeast."

08:44 EDT IntercontinentalExchange reports March total ADV up 4% y/y, OI up 20% y/y - Intercontinental Exchange reported March 2024 trading volume and related revenue statistics. March highlights include: Total average daily volume up 4% y/y; open interest up 20% y/y, including record OI of 93.7M lots on March 14; Energy ADV up 17% y/y; OI up 22% y/y, including record OI of 59.6M lots on March 22 ; Total Oil ADV up 17% y/y; OI up 18% y/y; Brent ADV up 2% y/y; OI up 3% y/y; WTI ADV up 39% y/y; OI up 17% y/y; Gasoil ADV up 25% y/y; OI up 60% y/y, including record options OI of 177k lots on March 28; Record Other Crude & Refined products ADV up 49% y/y; OI up 27% y/y; Record Dubai ADV up 59% y/y; OI up 19% y/y, including record OI of 1.0M lots on March 28; Record Murban ADV up 152% y/y; OI up 20% y/y; Total Natural Gas ADV up 18% y/y; OI up 26% y/y, including record OI of 40.2M lots on March 22.

08:41 EDT Perma-fix Environmental completes pilot plant testing - Perma-Fix Environmental Services completed pilot plant testing on its new, patent-pending process for the destruction of Per- and Polyfluorinated Substances, commonly known as "forever chemicals." PFAS compounds do not degrade over time through any natural process or environmental conditions, bioaccumulate, and are harmful to humans and the environment. The tests were designed to demonstrate the destruction of commercial quantities of PFAS-contaminated liquids and better define the parameters needed to construct the first commercial unit. The Company's prior bench-scale testing of PFAS compounds demonstrated that the process is effective and can be applied to a variety of potential markets, including liquids, solids, soils, biosolids, and sludges. The new pilot plant operates in a closed system under mild conditions. Present disposal options for PFAS liquids include deep wells, incineration and landfills, all of which have serious environmental liability issues. We expect that the Perma-Fix's process will virtually eliminate PFAS compounds and reduces the environmental liability associated with these materials. Additionally, the process is designed to operate at a highly competitive price compared to traditional disposal options. According to a recent article in Barron's the estimated cleanup cost for PFAS compounds could exceed $200 billion. A recent study from the U.S. Geological Survey found that "forever chemicals" were present in about 45% of U.S. tap water. Scientific studies have linked PFAS exposure to reproductive effects such as decreased fertility or increased high blood pressure in pregnant women; developmental effects or delays in children, including low birth weight, accelerated puberty, bone variations, or behavioral changes; increased risk of prostate, kidney, and testicular cancers; reduced ability of the body's immune system to fight infections, including reduced vaccine response; interference with the body's natural hormones; and increased cholesterol levels and/or risk of obesity. Last year, manufacturer 3M agreed to a $10.3 billion settlement over water pollution claims involving their use of PFAS.

08:39 EDT Ingersoll-Rand closed on the acquisitions of Controlled Fluidics, Ethafilter - Ingersoll Rand has closed on the acquisitions of Controlled Fluidics and Ethafilter s.r.l. Controlled Fluidics, with two sites in the United States, specializes in thermoplastic, high-performance plastic bonding and custom plastic assembly products for life sciences, medical, aerospace, and industrial applications. "The acquisitions of Controlled Fluidics and Ethafilter are the latest examples of our continued strategy to acquire adjacent technologies that will complement our core offerings and provide opportunities for growth," said Vicente Reynal, chairman and chief executive officer of Ingersoll Rand. "We continue to compound our growth with strategic acquisitions that can ensure the durability of our business."

08:38 EDT Verint announces expanded partnership with Webex by Cisco - Verint (VRNT) announced its expanded partnership with Webex by Cisco (CSCO) through the integration of the Verint Open Platform's unified data hub into the Webex App Hub for Webex Contact Center. "Secure and accurate real-time data is critical for organizations to measure how they are performing against customer expectations," said Jono Luk, vice president of product management, Webex by Cisco. "Verint's Data Hub is now available as an integration with Webex Contact Center, where customers will be able to enhance customer engagement across every area of the business."

08:37 EDT Asensus Surgical trading halted, news pending

08:36 EDT Falco Resources announces granting of stock options - Falco Resources announces that the Board of Directors approved the grant of incentive stock options to key employees, officers and directors to purchase up to an aggregate of 3,440,000 common shares in the capital stock of the Corporation. Grants are subject to a three-year vesting period and a five-year term. The options were granted at an exercise price of $0.36 per share being the closing price of the common shares of the Corporation on the TSX Venture Exchange on April 2, 2024.

08:35 EDT Maris-Tech gets $415,800 order from existing defense industry customer - Maris-Tech announced that it has received a new order for $415,800 from an existing defense industry customer, for a customized product.The solution for defense applications is based on Maris-Tech's Jupiter Nano platform, providing advanced video streaming capabilities for real-time intelligence gathering and situational awareness. The order is expected to be delivered during 2024.

08:34 EDT Milestone Scientific commences sales of CompuFlo Epidural Disposables in Florida - Milestone Scientific has commenced sales of CompuFlo Epidural disposables into PRC Alliance Pain Relief Center at Ormond Beach, Florida. PRC Alliance Pain Relief Centers operates 7offices and an ambulatory surgical center located across Central Florida, with 15 providers. PRC Alliance Pain Relief Centers is a family of pain management specialists who are dedicated to relieving pain through exceptional and compassionate care.

08:33 EDT Elbit Systems to deploy Foresight technology for key customer - Foresight Autonomous Holdings (FRSX) announced that Elbit Systems (ESLT) will commercially deploy the Company's cutting-edge software solution to a key customer in the defense industry, who will install it in its fully autonomous defense vehicles. This marks the first time Foresight's 3D image processing software will be commercially licensed to one of Elbit's end-customers. The Company believes this initial commercial deployment will lead to additional orders of software licenses from the same customer in the near future.

08:32 EDT Guardant Health to present data on epigenomics at 2024 AACR meeting - Guardant Health announced it will present data from nine studies highlighting advances in methylation-based epigenomic analysis for precision oncology at the 2024 American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting, April 5-10 in San Diego. Multiple poster sessions will report on the utility of using the Guardant Infinity platform across the continuum of cancer care, ranging from predictive histologic subtyping of tumors to cardiac adverse event prediction. "We look forward to sharing new data at AACR, in particular studies demonstrating the potential for epigenomic analysis using the Guardant Infinity platform to advance cancer research," said Helmy Eltoukhy, Guardant Health chairman and co-CEO. "These presentations illustrate how epigenomics can unlock the mechanisms of cancer cell regulation that are invisible to genomic testing, allowing us to expand patient eligibility for clinical trials and contributing to targeted therapy development and better-informed patient care."

08:31 EDT Ameresco announces completion of solar project at Northeastern University - Ameresco announced the completion of its comprehensive solar installation at Northeastern University's Boston campus. The installation takes the form of an on-grid, rooftop solar system atop the University's landmark Snell Library building. In total, the implemented solar system provides 157.78 kWp DC of power for the University's library which welcomes more than two million visitors per year. "This solar installation represents a key milestone on Northeastern University's path to decarbonization, and Ameresco is honored to be a partner with the University on their journey," said Pete Christakis, Executive Vice President and General Manager of the East Region at Ameresco.

08:29 EDT Comscore granted National Currency Certification - Comscore welcomed the announcement from the U.S. Joint Industry Committee granting it National Currency Certification as a transactable cross-platform solution. This announcement by the JIC follows Comscore's recent accreditation by the Media Rating Council for both National and Local TV measurement.

08:27 EDT Global Technologies closes on sale of commercial property in Georgia - Global Technologies has closed on the sale of its commercial building located in Sylvester, GA. On March 26, 2024, the Company closed on the sale of its commercial building, which was part of the Foxx Trot Tango purchase that took place in June of 2023. The net funds received by the Company will be utilized for operational expenses to help further support and advance both operating businesses: 10 Fold Services and GOe3.

08:26 EDT Bionano Genomics says OGM 'exclusively detects alterations in known oncogenes' - Bionano Genomics announced the publication of a peer-reviewed study that compared optical genome mapping OGM to classical cytogenetic techniques used for analysis of solid tumor cancer samples consisting of soft tissue and bone sarcomas, including fluorescence in situ hybridization FISH and karyotyping KT. OGM demonstrated high levels of concordance with FISH and KT but was also shown to exclusively detect alterations in known oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes and to identify additional pathogenic aberrations, including chromothripsis and chromoplexy, that were not detected by multiple other cytogenetic methods..."Characterization of sarcoma is enormously challenging and requires several different techniques, which often yield equivocal results that don't explain the underlying disorder. We are pleased to see results from this study on the use of OGM to investigate sarcomas, which provided the study authors with insights into the genomic complexity underlying various aberrations, highlighting the high sensitivity and robustness of our workflow and enhancing our understanding of tumor biology.? We believe this study is an important advancement for OGM and for the cancer research community as it now illustrates the utility of OGM not only in cancer, but in an important solid tumor," commented Erik Holmlin, PhD, president and chief executive officer of Bionano.

08:23 EDT Veradigm announces strategic collaboration with Vim - Veradigm announced its strategic collaboration with Vim, a leading middleware platform for U.S. healthcare, to enhance point-of-care integration for EHR platforms and payers outside of the Veradigm EHR footprint. "We are excited to work with Vim to bring more payer care gap content to providers who have already adopted the solution," said Tom Langan, President and Chief Commercial Officer of Veradigm. "This collaboration aligns perfectly with our vision of supporting existing provider workflows for care gap closure and ensuring that patients receive the right care at the right time."

08:22 EDT GE HealthCare introduces Caption AI on Vscan Air SL - GE HealthCare announced the launch of Caption AI artificial intelligence-driven software for rapid cardiac assessments at the point of care on Vscan Air SL. Now, with Caption AI technology, clinicians using Vscan Air SL handheld ultrasound will have access to real-time, step-by-step guidance to capture diagnostic-quality images and automated ejection fraction estimation to help inform clinical decisions across cardiac settings. "The integration of Caption AI with the Vscan Air SL handheld ultrasound opens an entirely new chapter for cardiac screening. This technology empowers users with guidance and tools for high quality ultrasound scans and supports earlier detection of cardiac disease," said Roland Rott, president and CEO, Ultrasound, GE HealthCare. "The strategic acquisition of Caption Health in 2023 continues to expand the capabilities of our products and solidifies our leadership in ultrasound and the emerging artificial intelligence landscape."

08:20 EDT Addex Therapeutics, Perceptive Advisors launch Neurosterix - Last night ,company announced: "Addex Therapeutics and funds affiliated with Perceptive Advisors, an investment management firm focused on the life sciences sector, today announced the launch of Neurosterix, a company focused on developing allosteric modulators for the treatment of underserved neurological disorders. With initial funding of $63 million from Perceptive Xontogeny Venture Fund II, with participation from Perceptive Life Sciences Fund and Acorn Bioventures, Neurosterix will acquire a portfolio of preclinical assets and the allosteric modulator drug discovery technology platform from Addex and accelerate their development. In return, Addex will receive CHF5 million and a 20% equity interest in Neurosterix. Addex will retain its partnerships with Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Inc. and Indivior PLC, as well as unpartnered clinical stage assets including dipraglurant for Parkinson's disease and post-stroke/TBI recovery as well as its preclinical GABAB positive allosteric modulator program for chronic cough."

08:19 EDT TPG agrees to acquire Classic Collision - TPG announced that it has signed a definitive agreement to acquire Classic Collision. TPG Capital, the U.S. and European private equity platform of TPG, will acquire the business from New Mountain Capital. Classic Collision's management team will remain invested in the company. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed. "Today's announcement is an exciting milestone for Classic Collision and a great testament to the strength of our team and our collective commitment to providing the highest quality service with integrity," said Toan Nguyen, CEO of Classic Collision. "TPG shares our vision, and I believe they are the right partner to help us take Classic to its next level. I also want to thank the New Mountain team for their tremendous support as we've grown our platform."

08:18 EDT Hilton acquires majority controlling interest in Sydell to expand NoMad Hotels - Hilton announced it has acquired a majority controlling interest in Sydell Group to expand the NoMad Hotels brand from its existing London flagship location to high-end markets around the world. The addition of NoMad to Hilton's brand portfolio marks the global hospitality leader's entry into the fast-growing luxury lifestyle hotel market with a meticulously designed brand defined by exceptional food and beverage, interior design and service. "Adding NoMad to our growing brand portfolio will create new offerings for guests seeking unique luxury experiences in some of the world's most desirable locations," said Chris Silcock, president, global brands and commercial services, Hilton. "By pairing an already proven brand concept that's ready for expansion with the power of Hilton's commercial engine, we are accelerating our ability to drive growth in the luxury lifestyle segment."

08:17 EDT PSQ Holdings' EveryLife donates over half a million diapers in Q1 - EveryLife, a wholly owned subsidiary of PSQ Holdings, announced that, through EveryLife's "Buy For A Cause" program, diaper drives, and the generosity of strategic partnerships, it has donated over 523,000 diapers and nearly 123,000 wipes in the first quarter of 2024. Sarah Gabel Seifert, co-founder, and president of EveryLife, commented, "At EveryLife, we're driven by the belief that every child is a precious gift. The success of our 'Buy For A Cause' program and our diaper drives is a testament to our customers and the community surrounding them. Further through the generosity of our strategic partners, we can assist new families in their time of need. We are committed to continuing our donation program going forward and with over half a million diapers donated in the first quarter of 2024 we are just getting started."

08:15 EDT Assertio Holdings appoints Sig Kirk to board of directors - Assertio Holdings announced effectiveness of the appointment of Sigurd "Sig" Kirk to its board of directors. He will serve on the Audit and Compensation committees.His previous experience includes 11 years at Allergan plc, which was acquired by AbbVie, Inc., as Executive Vice President, Corporate Business Development, where he led more than 75 deals

08:14 EDT Amarin extends Vazkepa commercial runway in Europe for eight more years - Amarin announced that the Company received a Decision to Grant from the European Patent Office or EPO, for a new patent covering VAZKEPA or icosapent ethyl, that will extend VAZKEPA exclusivity eight additional years into 2039. In addition, the Company recently achieved success defending a separate European VAZKEPA patent from third-party opposition within the EPO. Collectively, these patents cover both the protocol and results from the landmark REDUCE-IT outcomes study, providing an extended and strengthened exclusivity position for VAZKEPA within the Company's European market. "Today's announcement extends the commercial runway for VAZKEPA in Europe by eight additional years, which enhances the potential impact that this product can have for patients and the growth potential for VAZKEPA across the continent," said Patrick Holt, President & CEO, Amarin. "Moving forward, we will continue to rigorously defend our IP rights and explore any possibilities to strengthen Amarin's patents and patent families around the world."

08:13 EDT Lipella Pharmaceuticals announces FDA Type C meeting for LP-10 - Lipella Pharmaceuticals announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has granted a Type C meeting request to discuss the company's proposed Phase-2b clinical trial design for the evaluation of LP-10, an intravesical liposomal formulation of tacrolimus, as a potential treatment for moderate to severe hemorrhagic cystitis. Lipella expects to meet with the FDA on May 21, 2024. HC is a serious, life-threatening form of gross hematuria caused by cancer treatments including pelvic radiation therapy, and certain chemotherapies including cyclophosphamide and ifosfamide, which are most commonly used for the treatment of breast cancer. Lipella successfully completed a Phase-2a open-label, dose-escalation clinical trial in early 2023 demonstrating the safety, and the potential efficacy of LP-10 in 13 patients with a history of HC. The study demonstrated preliminary efficacy in multiple measures, including urine microscopy, urinalysis, urinary urgency, as well as a potential dose response in the reduction of bleeding sites observed during bladder cystoscopy. Lipella published these results in the peer-reviewed journal, International Urology and Nephrology, in September 2023, and received preliminary guidance from the FDA regarding potential registration endpoints. The company's anticipated Type C meeting with the FDA will focus on reaching an agreement for the proposed Phase-2b trial design, which Lipella expects to be a 36-subject, prospective, double-blind, placebo-controlled study with a primary efficacy assessment derived from the reduction in patient-reported frequency of gross hematuria episodes over a seven-day period.

08:12 EDT EXL appoints Rohit Kapoor as board chair - EXL announced changes to its board of directors and management structure to better position the company for continued growth as it enhances its focus on data and AI. The changes became effective April 1, 2024. Rohit Kapoor has been appointed board chair, in addition to his role as CEO. Vikram Pandit, who currently serves as board chair, will transition to lead independent director. Kapoor has served as CEO since 2008 and board vice chair since 2012. Pandit has been a director of the company since 2018 and board chair since 2022. Vikas Bhalla and Vivek Jetley, who are currently executive vice president and head of insurance and executive vice president and head of analytics, respectively, have each been promoted to president of EXL in addition to their current business head roles. In their expanded roles, they will take on broader companywide responsibilities, including supporting the board chair & CEO to drive overall corporate performance and the adoption of our data and AI-led solutions. Bhalla and Jetley will continue to report to Kapoor.

08:10 EDT Baker Hughes to supply Europe's Snam with hydrogen-ready technology - Baker Hughes to Supply Snam with Hydrogen-Ready Technology Baker Hughes announced it was awarded a contract to be booked in the first quarter of 2024 from Snam, Europe's leading operator in natural gas transportation, storage and regasification, to provide three NovaLT 12 gas turbine driven compressor trains for a new gas compressor station in Sulmona, Italy ...The adoption of Baker Hughes' NovaLT 12 turbines, which provide the option to run on 100% natural gas or hydrogen blends up to 10%, represents a significant milestone in decarbonizing the Italian gas network infrastructure and aligns with Snam's strategy to achieve carbon neutrality on direct emissions by 2040... "This milestone in our long-standing collaboration with Snam demonstrates that the energy transition requires continuous partnership...."

08:07 EDT Harmony Biosciences begins Phase 3 registrational study of pitolisant in PWS - Harmony Biosciences has initiated its global Phase 3 registrational trial, the TEMPO study, to evaluate the safety and efficacy of pitolisant as a treatment for excessive daytime sleepiness - EDS - and behavioral symptoms in patients aged six years and older with Prader-Willi syndrome - PWS -. The TEMPO study initiation follows a successful End-of-Phase 2 meeting with the FDA and their recent decision to grant Orphan Drug Designation for pitolisant in PWS. There is currently no FDA-approved treatment for EDS in this patient population. Pitolisant is FDA approved to treat EDS or cataplexy in adult patients with narcolepsy. Pitolisant is not approved for use in patients with PWS and is currently being evaluated as an investigational agent in this patient population. PWS is an orphan/rare, genetic neurological disorder with many of the symptoms resulting from hypothalamic dysfunction.

08:07 EDT Sono-Tek appoints Adeniyi Lawal to board of directors - Sono-Tek announced the election of Dr. Adeniyi Lawal to the Company's Board of Directors effective today. Dr. Lawal is expected to eventually replace Dr. Donald F. Mowbray, the Board member with the most significant technical expertise, who has indicated that he may not stand for reelection and whose current term expires as of the Company's next annual meeting of shareholders which is expected to be held in August 2024. Dr. Lawal is a Professor of Chemical Engineering at the Department of Chemical Engineering & Materials Science, Stevens Institute of Technology.

08:06 EDT Guess?, WHP Global complete acquisition of rag & bone - Guess? and WHP Global announced that they have completed the previously announced acquisition of New York based fashion brand rag & bone. Under the terms of the transaction, Guess? has contributed $57.1 million towards the purchase of rag & bone, in addition to contributions from WHP Global. As a result, Guess? now owns all of the rag & bone operating assets, and Guess? and WHP Global jointly own the rag & bone intellectual property. In connection with the closing of the acquisition, Guess? has entered into an agreement with the lenders of its existing $150 million asset-based revolving credit facility to increase the borrowing capacity under the facility by $50 million to a total of $200 million.

08:05 EDT Tracon says IDMC reccommends ENVASARC Phase 2 trial continue 'as planned' - Tracon Pharmaceuticals announced the independent data monitoring committee or IDMC, following a review of ongoing safety and efficacy data on April 2, recommended the ENVASARC Phase 2 pivotal trial continue as planned. The ENVASARC Phase 2 pivotal trial completed enrollment in March 2024 with a total of 82 evaluable patients in cohort C of treatment with single agent envafolimab at 600 mg SQ every three weeks and final data are expected in the third quarter of 2024. The IDMC reviewed interim safety and efficacy data from 73 patients enrolled into cohort C who had the opportunity to complete two on-treatment scans. The primary endpoint of the study is achievement of an objective response in nine of 82 patients treated with envafolimab by BICR and median duration of response of greater than six months is a key secondary endpoint.... "We believe that achievement of the primary endpoint in the ENVASARC trial would position envafolimab to become a potentially compelling treatment option for patients with the refractory sarcoma subtypes of UPS and MFS," said Charles Theuer, M.D., Ph.D., TRACON's CEO.

08:04 EDT Notified announces sale of virtual events, webinar business to Brandlive - Notified announced the sale of its virtual events and webinar business to Brandlive. The decision reflects Notified's sharpening focus on investor relations and public relations solutions. This allows Notified to invest in innovative technologies, including artificial intelligence, that create more value for clients while positioning itself for future growth opportunities. Notified will retain its IR Event Platform while further investing in new features that position Notified as the premier IR communications solution on the market. As part of the deal, Brandlive will manage the Studio webcasting and virtual event platforms and absorb the associated development, client support and account management resources. Brandlive and Notified are committed to ensuring a seamless transition for these virtual events and webinar clients. Clients purchasing Notified's IR and PR solutions will continue to be supported by their current account teams.

08:03 EDT Soluna Holdings appoints Tunison as CFO - Soluna Holdings announced the appointment of John Tunison as Chief Financial Officer, CFO. As CFO, Tunison will lead Soluna's finance and accounting activities with a specific focus on strategy and capital allocation for Soluna's growing pipeline of data centers co-located with renewable power plants. Most recently, Tunison served as CFO of Verdant Specialty Solutions, an Open Gate Capital Portfolio Company.

08:02 EDT Synaptogenix implementing reverse stock split to maintain Nasdaq listing - Synaptogenix intends to effect a reverse stock split of its common stock at a ratio of 1 post-split share for every 25 pre-split shares. SNPX common stock will continue to be traded on Nasdaq under the symbol SNPX and will begin trading on a split-adjusted basis when the market opens on Friday, April 5. The new CUSIP number for SNPX common stock following the reverse stock split will be 87167T 300. The reverse split is intended to increase the per-share trading price of the company's common stock to enable the company to regain compliance with the minimum bid price requirement for continued listing on The Nasdaq Capital Market. The reverse stock split will affect all stockholders uniformly and will not alter any stockholder's percentage interest in the company's equity. The reverse stock split will reduce the number of shares of SNPX common stock outstanding from 27,133,349 shares, the number of shares outstanding on April 2, to approximately 1,085,333 shares, subject to adjustment for fractional shares.

08:02 EDT 60 Degrees Pharmaceuticals to sponsor pilot study of tafenoquine - 60 Degrees Pharmaceuticals announced that the Company will sponsor a pilot study of tafenoquine, the active molecule in its U.S. Food and Drug Administration-approved human malaria prevention medication, ARAKODA, for the treatment of babesiosis in dogs. The study will support a broader effort now being led by 60 Degrees Pharmaceuticals to evaluate tafenoquine for various babesiosis indications.

07:48 EDT Stack Capital enters partnership with BetMGM for identity solution - Stack Capital Group has entered into a strategic partnership with BetMGM. Pending regulatory approval, the partnership will allow BetMGM to utilize Prove's Pre-Fill identity solution across its entire sports betting platform, including all of MGM's U.S. land-based and online sports betting, major tournament poker, and online gaming businesses. Accelerated customer onboarding, enhanced security, and an improved overall customer experience are some of the benefits that Prove's Pre-Fill identity solution will provide, enabling BetMGM to deliver a seamless and more secure betting platform for its customers.

07:38 EDT Avant Brands appoints Sukhie Chahal as VP, revenue strategy - Avant Brands (AVTBF) welcomes the addition of Ms. Sukhie Chahal as Vice President of Revenue Strategy, who previously served as Revenue Management & Sales Strategy at Canopy Growth (CGC).

07:37 EDT Silver Tiger Metals provides update on pre-feasability study drilling - Silver Tiger Metals provides an update on the Company's ongoing Pre-Feasibility Study drilling program on the Stockwork gold deposit on its El Tigre Project in Sonora, Mexico. Silver Tiger has completed 22,000 metres of a 25,000 metre drilling program focused on expanding the Mineral Resource, up-grading the classification, completing metallurgical testwork and geotechnical studies as it progresses from an exploration to a development project. The value-added PFS progress is on schedule for publication in H2-2024. Three main areas of the Stockwork mineralization are being targeted and show potential for expansion: a) the footwall, b) the hanging wall and c) bottom 'keel'. After releasing the first 40 drill holes of the program, the Company is pleased to announce conversion, expansion and derisking of the potential 'Starter Stockwork Zone' The near-surface Stockwork Zone, and high-grade Keel Zone seen in below highlighted intercepts: Drill hole ET-23-497: 116.0 metres grading 0.68 g/t gold equivalent or 51.2 g/t silver equivalent from 37.0 to 153.0 metres, consisting of 0.40 g/t gold and 21.1 g/t silver INCLUDING 25.0 metres grading 0.99 g/t gold equivalent or 74.4 g/t silver equivalent from 107.0 to 132.0 metres consisting of 0.37 g/t gold and 46.8 g/t silver in the Stockwork Zone. Drill hole ET-23-504: 115.8 metres grading 0.61 g/t gold equivalent or 46.1 g/t silver equivalent from 37.2 to 153.0 metres, consisting of 0.49 g/t gold and 9.2 g/t silver INCLUDING 23.5 metres grading 1.09 g/t gold equivalent or 81.9 g/t silver equivalent from 37.2 to 60.7 metres consisting of 0.89 g/t gold and 15.2 g/t silver in the Stockwork Zone. Drill hole ET-23-506: 80.0 metres grading 1.09 g/t gold equivalent or 82.0 g/t silver equivalent from 6.0 to 86.0 metres, consisting of 0.75 g/t gold and 25.6 g/t silver INCLUDING 47.5 metres grading 1.55 g/t gold equivalent or 115.9 g/t silver equivalent from 34.5 to 82.0 metres consisting of 1.08 g/t gold and 34.7 g/t silver gold in the Stockwork Zone. Drill hole ET-23-514: 34.4 metres grading 1.76 g/t gold equivalent or 131.9 g/t silver equivalent from 167.0 to 201.4 metres, consisting of 0.72 g/t gold and 78.0 g/t silver INCLUDING 0.8 metres grading 30.17 g/t gold equivalent or 2,263.0 g/t silver equivalent from 188.6 to 189.4 metres consisting of 16.60 g/t gold and 1,018.0 g/t silver in the Keel Zone.

07:35 EDT Phio Pharmaceuticals says INTASYL platform to be focus of 'Viewpoint' - Phio Pharmaceuticals announced its INTASYL platform will be the focus of Viewpoint, a national program hosted by Dennis Quaid. The program will air in April on PBS stations across the country.

07:34 EDT Soligenix reaches agreement with EMA on second HyBryte trial - Soligenix has received agreement from the European Medicines Agency - EMA - on the key design components of a confirmatory Phase 3 placebo-controlled study evaluating the safety and efficacy of HyBryte in the treatment of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma - CTCL - patients with early-stage disease. This confirmatory 18-week study is targeted to begin patient enrollment by the end of 2024 with top-line results anticipated in the second half of 2026. The confirmatory study, called FLASH2, replicates the double-blind, placebo-controlled design used in the first successful Phase 3 FLASH study. In the first Phase 3 study, a treatment response of 49% was observed in patients completing 18 weeks, or 3 cycles, of therapy. In this second study, all important clinical study design components remain the same as in the first FLASH study, including the primary endpoint and key inclusion-exclusion criteria. HyBryte has received orphan drug and fast track designations from the FDA, as well as orphan designation from the EMA.

07:33 EDT Lincoln Electric appoints Kuhrt as Chief Transformation Officer - Lincoln Electric Holdings announced that Michele Kuhrt has been appointed as Executive Vice President, Chief Transformation Officer, CTO, effective April 8, 2024. In this newly created role, Kuhrt will lead initiatives to accelerate business process standardization and organizational alignment under the Lincoln Electric Business System to support the Company's strategic goals. She will continue to serve as a member of the executive leadership team and report to Steven Hedlund, President and Chief Executive Officer. Kuhrt has extensive experience over her 26-year career at Lincoln Electric, most recently serving as Executive Vice President, Chief Human Resources Officer.

07:32 EDT Vecima announces intent to acquire assets of Casa Systems' Cable Business - Vecima Networks (VNWTF) announced it has entered into an asset purchase agreement to acquire the Cable Business assets of Casa Systems (CASA), and certain of Casa's subsidiaries. Under the APA, Vecima, or its affiliates, will acquire substantially all the assets of Casa's Cable Business for a purchase price of USD $20 million. To facilitate the sale, Casa and certain of its subsidiaries filed voluntary petitions for relief under Chapter 11 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware. If Vecima is successful, closing of the transaction is expected to occur at the beginning of June 2024. Closing of the transaction is subject to Bankruptcy Court approval and other customary closing conditions.

07:30 EDT Kintara Therapeutics, TuHURA Biosciences enter merger agreement - Kintara Therapeutics and TuHURA Biosciences announced that they have entered into a definitive agreement for an all-stock transaction forming a company with expertise and resources to advance a risk diversified late-stage oncology pipeline. The combined company will focus on advancing TuHURA's personalized cancer vaccine and first-in-class bi-functional ADCS, two technologies that seek to overcome the major obstacles that limit the effectiveness of current immunotherapies in treating cancer. The combined company is expected to operate under the name "TuHURA Biosciences, Inc." and to trade on The Nasdaq Capital Market under the ticker "HURA". The transaction is expected to close in the third quarter of 2024. TuHURA's technologies are being developed to overcome primary and acquired resistance-- two major obstacles to cancer immunotherapy's ability to treat and cure cancer. Immune Fx Personalized Cancer Vaccines Harnessing the Power of the Innate Immune Response: TuHURA's IFx technology utilizes a proprietary plasmid DNA or messenger RNA which, when introduced into a tumor cell, results in the expression of a highly immunogenic bacterial protein on the surface of the tumor cell. TuHURA's lead program, IFx-2.0, is designed to harness the power of the patient's innate immune response, which has evolved over time to detect foreign pathogens like bacterial proteins. By making the surface of a tumor look like a bacterium, IFx-2.0 is designed to use the tumor itself as the source of foreign tumor neoantigens to prime and initiate an innate immune response against the tumor, thereby restoring the cancer immunity cycle and allowing checkpoint inhibitors like Keytruda to work where they previously failed to work. IFx-2.0 expects to be entering a Phase 3 trial as adjunctive therapy with the checkpoint inhibitor Keytruda, to improve tumor response rate when compared to Keytruda alone in the first line treatment of patients with advanced or metastatic Merkel cell carcinoma. This single, placebo-controlled registration directed trial is expected to be conducted under the FDA's Accelerated Approval Pathway and is expected to begin enrollment in 2H-2024. The FDA instituted its Accelerated Approval Program to allow for earlier approval of drugs that treat serious conditions and fill an unmet medical need based on a surrogate endpoint like Overall Response Rate. Bi-Functional Antibody Drug Conjugates: Targeting Myeloid Derived Suppressor Cells to Modulate Their Immunosuppressive Effects on the Tumor Microenvironment: Leveraging its proprietary Delta receptor technology, TuHURA is developing first-in-class bi-functional ADCs that target MDSCs, which are cells that are responsible for creating an immunologic sanctuary for the tumor through their immunosuppressing effects on the tumor microenvironment. The TME is the tissue surrounding a tumor, and MDSCs are cells that are characterized by the ability to suppress both innate and adaptive immune responses and are generally believed to be responsible for T cell exhaustion and acquired resistance to checkpoint inhibitors and cellular therapies. Utilizing its bi-functional ADCs to inhibit the immune suppressing effects of MDSCs, while localizing an immune checkpoint inhibitor or T cell activator in the TME, TuHURA believes it may be able to prevent T cell exhaustion and acquired resistance to checkpoint inhibitors and cellular therapies, allowing them to continue working while potentially reducing off-tumor severe side effects resulting from checkpoint released indiscriminate T cell toxicity to normal tissues. Under the terms of the merger agreement, subject to stockholder approval, on a pro forma basis, post-merger Kintara equityholders are expected to collectively own up to approximately 2.85%, or approximately 5.45% including the shares underlying the contingent value rights to be received by certain of Kintara's equityholders as described below, of the common stock of post-merger combined company on a pro forma fully diluted basis. TuHURA equityholders are expected to collectively own approximately 97.15%, or 94.55% assuming the distribution of the CVR shares, of the common stock of combined company on a pro forma fully diluted basis. Pre-merger Kintara common stockholders, certain warrant holders and certain preferred stockholders of record of Kintara will receive a CVR, entitling the holder to receive shares of Kintara common stock to be issued upon achievement of the CVR milestone. The Kintara CVR shares will be issued and distributed once 10 patients are enrolled and tracked in a study to determine whether a lower dose of REM-001 elicits a treatment effect similar to that seen in prior REM-001 studies. Once completed, the company will seek to out-license or identify an acquirer for the technology. The merger agreement has been approved by the boards of directors of both companies and is subject to stockholder approval of both companies and other customary closing conditions. The proposed merger is expected to close in the third quarter of 2024. Following the merger, the combined company will be headquartered in Tampa, Florida, and the executive officers are expected to be James Bianco, MD as President and Chief Executive Officer, and Dan Dearborn, CPA as Chief Financial Officer. The merger agreement provides that the board of directors of the combined company will be composed of five members, with four members initially designated by TuHURA and one member initially designated by Kintara.

07:25 EDT Aclara Resources announces rare earths processing in U.S. - Aclara Resources has incorporated a U.S. based subsidiary, Aclara Technologies, to develop its rare earths separation capabilities in the United States. This development will allow Aclara to better position itself to carry out all of the stages leading up to the production of metal and alloys for high performance permanent magnets, following the recent announcement that the Company has entered into a joint venture with CAP to develop metal and alloys capabilities. As a result, Aclara is positioned to become the first vertically integrated heavy rare earths company outside of Asia. The decision to integrate vertically responds to the need for creating a geopolitically independent supply chain for permanent magnets, a much-needed performance enhancer for the motors of electric vehicles, wind turbines, robotics and other applications associated with the decarbonization of our planet. Aclara Technologies is expected to source high purity mixed rare earths carbonates from Aclara's extraction modules in Chile and Brazil. These carbonates will be then converted into individual rare earths oxides in the separation facility. For this purpose, Aclara Technologies has awarded a contract to the Saskatchewan Research Council to develop a production flowsheet specially designed for its premium carbonate, and to Hatch to work on the engineering of the proposed separation facility. Under the terms of the agreement, SRC will develop a conceptual Solvent Extraction separation process, which will serve as the basis for Hatch to conduct a Class 5-AACE CAPEX and OPEX estimation for the rare earth separation facility. The aim of this conceptual analysis is to design a plant capable of processing Aclara's mixed rare earth carbonates into separated neodymium and praseodymium oxide and dysprosium and terbium oxides. The engineering study is expected to be completed by the end of the third quarter of 2024. The Company notes that the final decision to build the separation facility will depend on the completion of a thorough analysis of costs, logistics and time to permitting. Alternative locations currently under consideration include Brazil and Chile.

07:22 EDT Gilat Satellite awarded 'over' $5M order from DoD for baseband equipment - Gilat Satellite Networks announced that the US Department of Defense awarded over $5M for baseband equipment to one of the company's US-based subsidiaries, DataPath The baseband networking solution will be used with the company's DKET 3421 terminals, which are transportable satcom hubs that deliver the operational flexibility, capacity, connectivity, and control required to ensure success anywhere in the world. By supplying the baseband equipment, the company is completing the customer's ability to field a completed, turnkey satellite communications architecture. "This order reflects the confidence and trust placed in the company to deliver communications solutions that meet even the most stringent performance requirements," said Barry W. Botts, Vice President, Sales and Business Development for DataPath. "We remain steadfast in our mission to deliver best-in-class solutions to the challenging requirements of our customers."

07:19 EDT Casa Systems initiates court-supervised Chapter 11 sale process - Casa Systems (CASA) initiated a court-supervised process that is intended to achieve value-maximizing sales of its businesses. To facilitate these sales, the Company filed voluntary petitions for relief under Chapter 11 of the Bankruptcy Code in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware. The Company has entered into an asset purchase agreement to sell its 5G Mobile Core and RAN businesses, which include its Axyom Cloud Native 5G Core Software & RAN Assets, to Lumine Group (LMGIF), a global acquirer of communications and media software businesses. The Company has asked the Bankruptcy Court for approval to complete the transaction by the end of April. The Company also entered into a stalking-horse asset purchase agreement to sell its Cable business to an affiliate of Vecima Networks (VNWTF), a global leader in delivering scalable software, services, and integrated technology platforms for broadband access, and content delivery. The Company has asked the Bankruptcy Court to approve procedures for soliciting additional bids and to set an auction for mid-May. The Company remains committed to the success of its customers and partners and intends to continue supporting them throughout this process. In connection with the sale process, the Company entered a Restructuring Support Agreement with more than 98% of its senior secured lenders that, among other things, allows Casa to use its cash on hand and proceeds of the anticipated Cloud/RAN Sale to fund its operations and Chapter 11 process. To support its operations during the court-supervised process, the Company is filing a variety of customary motions seeking, among other things, authorization to meet its obligations to its employees, customers and vendors. The Company expects to receive Bankruptcy Court approval for these requests. Casa's international subsidiaries are not debtors in the Chapter 11 filing; however, certain of their businesses and related assets are included in the two asset sale transactions. The international subsidiaries will continue to operate in the ordinary course pending the closing of the sales. The Company's NetComm business, which commenced voluntary administration proceedings under Australian law on March 11, 2024, is not included in the U.S. Chapter 11 process.

07:16 EDT Probe Metals completes acquisitionof Beaufor, McKenzie Break properties - PROBE GOLD (PROBF) announce the completion of its previously announced agreement of purchase and sale with Monarch Mining Corporation (GBARF). Pursuant to the Agreement, Probe acquired a 100% interest in the McKenzie Break and Beaufor properties. The Property acquisition extends the Company's land package adjacent and immediately to the north of the Company's Novador Project and increases Probe's landholdings in Val-d'Or to 685 square kilometres. Pursuant to the Agreement, the Company acquired a 100% interest in the McKenzie Break and Beaufor properties, for aggregate consideration of $8.5 million, paid to Monarch as follows: Probe issued 3,580,902 common shares for a total value of $5.4 million based on the 10-day volume weighted average price of Probe's common shares on the Toronto Stock Exchange for the period ending on April 1st, 2024, with the Consideration Shares being issued at a deemed price of $1.508 per Consideration Share; and (ii) a cash payment of $3.1 million. The Consideration Shares have a hold period of four months and one day from closing date of the Acquisition.

07:14 EDT Monarch Mining closes transactions with Probe Gold, Bullrun - MONARCH MINING CORPORATION (GBARF) announces the closing of its previously-announced transactions with Probe Gold (PROBF) for the sale of the Beaufor Property and the McKenzie Break Property to Probe, and with Bullrun Capital for the sale of the Swanson Property to Bullrun. Probe acquired a 100% interest in the McKenzie Break and Beaufor properties, for aggregate consideration of $8.5 million, paid to Monarch as follows: Probe issued 3,580,902 common shares for a total value of $5.4 million based on the 10-day volume weighted average price of Probe's common shares on the Toronto Stock Exchange for the period ending on April 1, 2024, with the Consideration Shares being issued at a deemed price of $1.508 per Consideration Share; and a cash payment of $3.1 million. The Consideration Shares have a hold period of four months and one day from closing date of the acquisition. Bullrun acquired a 100% interest in the Swanson property, for an aggregate cash consideration of $350,000. The transactions are the culmination of the Corporation's previously announced court-approved sale and investment solicitation process carried out by PricewaterhouseCoopers Inc. in its capacity as Monitor in the Corporation's ongoing proceedings pursuant to the Companies' Creditors Arrangement Act.

07:10 EDT Tilray Medical announces scientific publication of age-related use of cannabis - Tilray Medical, a division of Tilray Brands announced a new Tilray led scientific publication, Age-related Patterns of medical Cannabis Use: A Survey of Authorized Patients in Canada. The new study was derived from the Canadian Cannabis Patient Survey CCPS 2021, comprised of 2,697 patients and focused primarily on older patients with a mean age of 54.3. This study presents to the medical and scientific community the consumption trends observed in patients and the self-reported impacts from medical cannabis in alleviating the patients' primary symptoms...Jose Tempero, Tilray's Medical Director, said, "Our role in this initiative exemplifies our commitment to medical research, leading us one step closer to unlocking the full therapeutic potential of medical cannabis."

07:09 EDT Akoustis introduces two 2.4 GHz BAW RF filters - Akoustis Technologies announced today two new bandedge RF filter products for Wi-Fi Automotive and Access Point applications. These filters are expected to ramp into production in the second half of calendar year 2024. Akoustis' new Wi-Fi/LTE coexistence BAW RF filters are designed specifically for the Wi-Fi 2.4 GHz band, covering channels 1 to 11. Leveraging XBAW technology, these filters exhibit minimal insertion loss with ultra-steep skirts at the bandedge to extend Wi-Fi range and ensure coexistence with LTE band 7, 38, 40, and 41. Utilized in Wi-Fi routers, access points, extenders, mesh systems, mobile hotspots, ISM, and automotive, these filters offer high performance, robust power handling, and high out-of-band rejection. Additionally, the A10124 will be AEC-Q200 qualified for Automotive, providing reliable connectivity for vehicular applications. Both filters are housed in an ultra-small ceramic package measuring 1.1 x 0.9 mm.

07:09 EDT Can-Fite BioPharma submits IND to FDA for Phase IIb trial of namodenoson - Can-Fite BioPharma announced submission of an investigational new drug, IND, application to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, FDA, for the treatment of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis, also known as non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, for the Company's ongoing Phase IIb clinical study. The Phase IIb trial is a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study in subjects with biopsy-confirmed MASH. "We are eager to look at the therapeutic effect of Namodenoson in patients with MASH," said Motti Farbstein, chief executive officer of Can-Fite. "Prior human data showed that treatment with Namodenoson leads to significant anti-MASH effects. Namodenoson's novel liver-protective mechanism of action provides a unique opportunity to potentially improve inflammation and reduce hepatic steatosis and fibrosis which may provide important therapeutic benefits for patients."

07:07 EDT Glaukos receives permanent J-code for iDose TR - Glaukos Corporation announced the U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services has assigned a unique, permanent Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System J-code for iDose TR, travoprost intracameral implant, 75 mcg, a prostaglandin analog indicated for the reduction of intraocular pressure in patients with ocular hypertension or open-angle glaucoma. "The receipt of a product-specific J-code for iDose TR supports our market access initiatives to enable broad access and coverage for patients suffering from open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension," said Thomas Burns, Glaukos chairman and chief executive officer. "This new J-code, once effective, should provide more streamlined, consistent, and dependable coverage and payment for iDose TR as we advance and ultimately accelerate our initial commercial launch activities."

07:07 EDT Mobilicom launches MCU-300 cybersecure software defined radio - Mobilicom announced the launch of its newest product-the MCU-300 cybersecure software defined radio. This ruggedized unit, which boasts a stronger amplifier than prior generation products, works together with Mobilicom's MCU mesh networking aerial products to deliver high-performance cybersecure mobile mesh wireless IP networking, high-definition video and data for mid-sized long-range uncrewed aerial vehicles. MCU-300 expands the coverage distance up to 100 miles while fortifying stability, resilience, and durability. The MCU-300, like the rest of the MCU product line, is U.S. National Defense Authorization Act compliant.

07:07 EDT Kintara Therapeutics and TuHURA Biosciences sign definitive merger agreement - Kintara Therapeutics and TuHURA Biosciences, a Phase 3 registration-stage immune-oncology company developing novel technologies to overcome resistance to cancer immunotherapy, have entered into a definitive agreement for an all-stock transaction forming a company to advance a late-stage oncology pipeline. The combined company will focus on advancing TuHURA's personalized cancer vaccine(s) and first-in-class bi-functional ADCS, two technologies that seek to overcome the major obstacles that limit the effectiveness of current immunotherapies in treating cancer. The combined company is expected to operate under the name "TuHURA Biosciences, Inc." and to trade on Nasdaq under the ticker "HURA". The transaction is expected to close in Q3. IFx-2.0 expects to be entering a Phase 3 trial as adjunctive therapy with the checkpoint inhibitor Keytruda in patients with advanced or metastatic Merkel cell carcinoma. This registration directed trial is expected to be conducted under the FDA's Accelerated Approval Pathway and is expected to begin enrollment in 2H-2024. Subject to stockholder approval, on a pro forma basis, post-merger Kintara equityholders are expected to collectively own up to approximately 2.85%, or approximately 5.45% including the shares underlying the contingent value rights to be received by certain of Kintara's equityholders of the common stock of post-merger combined company on a pro forma fully diluted basis. TuHURA equityholders are expected to collectively own approximately 97.15%, or 94.55% assuming the distribution of the CVR shares, of the common stock of combined company on a pro forma fully diluted basis. Pre-merger Kintara common stockholders, certain warrant holders and certain preferred stockholders of record of Kintara will receive a CVR, entitling the holder to receive shares of Kintara common stock to be issued upon achievement of the CVR milestone. The Kintara CVR shares will be issued and distributed once 10 patients are enrolled and tracked in a study to determine whether a lower dose of REM-001 elicits a treatment effect similar to that seen in prior REM-001 studies. Once completed, the company will seek to out-license or identify an acquirer for the technology. Following the merger, the combined company will be headquartered in Tampa, Florida, with James Bianco as CEO and President, and Dan Dearborn as CFO. The board will be composed of five members, with four members initially designated by TuHURA and one member initially designated by Kintara.

07:06 EDT Eyenovia to feature commercial products, Optejet Dispenser at eyecare meetings - Eyenovia announced that the company will be conducting demonstrations of its portfolio of commercial products at two upcoming ophthalmology medical meetings. "Our presence at national medical and commercial meetings like these are key to elevating awareness of our continuum of office-based and surgical products," stated Michael Rowe, Eyenovia's Chief Executive Officer. "With Mydcombi available for pre-surgical pupil dilation, clobetasol available for post-surgical pain and inflammation, and Avenova Antimicrobial Lid and Lash Solution used both pre- and post-surgery to reduce the number of pathogens that can lead to infection, we have evolved into the 'partner of choice' for leading ophthalmic and optometric practices and surgical institutions. These meetings complement the efforts of our field sales force in amplifying the synergistic nature of our product portfolio as well as the many benefits conferred to doctors and patients by the Optejet device. We continue to lay a foundation from which we believe we can drive a meaningful acceleration in sales growth in 2025." Eyenovia will feature an entire suite of commercial products - Mydcombi, clobetasol and Avenova - at the ASCRS Annual Meeting, which is being held April 5-8, 2024, in Boston. The Vison Source Exchange, which is being held April 10-13 in Orlando, is the country's largest gathering of private practice optometrists with more than a thousand of the most successful ODs in the nation. Eyenovia will be on hand to demonstrate and sell Mydcombi.

07:06 EDT Q32 Bio names Lee Kalowski as CFO - Q32 Bio (QTTB) announced the appointment of Lee Kalowski as President and CFO. Kalowski brings over 20 years of biopharmaceutical experience with a focus on strategy, raising capital, and financial operations. Prior to joining Q32 Bio, Kalowski served as President and CFO of Bicycle Therapeutics (BCYC) where he led strategic finance and operations and oversaw the company's transition to a public clinical-stage biotech company.

07:04 EDT Blue World Acquisition announces extension of deadline for combination - Blue World Acquisition Corporation announced that, in order to extend the date by which the Company mush complete its initial business combination from April 2, 2024 to May 2, 2024, an aggregate of $60,000 has been deposited into the Company's trust account. The payment for the Extension Fee was made by Fuji Solar Co., an indirect major shareholder of Vietnam Sunergy Cell Company Limited, with which the Company is preparing its business combination. The Company issued an unsecured promissory note to Fuji Solar for the deposit of the Extension Fee.

07:03 EDT Ziff Davis completes one acquisition in Q1 of 2024 - Ziff Davis announced that it completed one acquisition in the first quarter of 2024. The acquisition listed below grows Ziff Davis' global customer base, provides access to new markets and expands the company's product lineup. Terms of the individual acquisition were not disclosed, and the financial impact to Ziff Davis is not expected to be material with respect to the acquisition.

07:02 EDT BioCryst reports inducement grants under Nasdaq listing rule - BioCryst Pharmaceuticals announced that the compensation committee of BioCryst's board of directors granted six newly-hired employees stock options to purchase an aggregate of 43,975 shares, and restricted stock units covering an aggregate of 30,625 shares, of BioCryst common stock. The options and RSUs were granted as of March 29, 2024, as inducements material to each employee entering into employment with BioCryst. The options and RSUs were granted in accordance with Nasdaq Listing Rule 5635(c)(4). The options have an exercise price of $5.08 per share, which is equal to the closing price of BioCryst common stock on March 28, 2024, the last trading date prior to the grant date. The options and RSUs vest in four equal annual installments beginning on the one-year anniversary of the grant date, in each case subject to the new employee's continued service with the company. Each stock option has a 10-year term. The options and RSUs are subject to the terms and conditions of BioCryst's Inducement Equity Incentive Plan and a stock option agreement or restricted stock unit agreement, as applicable, covering the grant.

07:02 EDT Lightspeed announces 10% share repurchase program - "After successfully integrating our many acquisitions into our two flagship products and expanding adoption of our payments offering, Lightspeed is now entering a new phase, one focused on profitable growth to capture the opportunity in front of us," said Lightspeed Founder and CEO Dax Dasilva. "This means making some hard decisions, like reducing spending in specific areas such as headcount, to allow for investments in others. As we navigate through this transition, we acknowledge the invaluable efforts of every team member who has played a role in our journey." "To optimize our capital allocation, our Board of Directors has also authorized the repurchase of up to ten percent of our public float, the maximum allowable under TSX rules, representing ~$140 million based on recent closing prices on the NYSE," said Asha Bakshani, CFO of Lightspeed. "As we continue to drive profitable growth and execute on our long-term strategic plan, this authorization gives us the opportunity to create value for our shareholders through share repurchases and reduce dilution from employee equity grants."

07:01 EDT Nucleai secured $14M investment led by M Ventures - Nucleai has secured a $14M investment led by M Ventures, the corporate venture capital arm of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, and supported by existing investors, bringing the total funding to $60 million. The investment enables Nucleai to further deploy its AI algorithms for the prospective enrollment of patients in clinical trials - a first in the field and a significant advancement in personalized solutions tailored to the distinct needs of patients.

06:51 EDT Signet Jewelers repurchases convertible preferred shares - Signet Jewelers and Leonard Green & Partners announced the amendment of the terms of the Series A Convertible Preference Shares to net share settlement and the repurchase of half of the Preferred Shares. The Preferred Shares, scheduled to mature in November 2024, were convertible into approximately 8.2 million Signet common shares. Signet will repurchase half of the Preferred Shares for approximately $414 million in cash, based on the volume weighted average share price on the date of the transaction signing, April 1, 2024, including accrued dividends, and is expected to be settled within 10 business days. Following the transaction there will be $328 million remaining in stated value of the Preferred Shares which carry a dividend of 5.0%. This transaction will immediately reduce Signet's diluted share count by approximately 4.1 million shares, or 7.6% of Signet's diluted share count. Signet will settle the transaction from the $1.4 billion in cash on hand at the end of Fiscal 2024. During the first quarter of Fiscal 2025, the Company will record a reduction to GAAP net income attributable to common shareholders of approximately $83 million as a deemed dividend. This deemed dividend reflects the excess of the above one-time cash payment over the carrying value of the Preferred Shares at the date of the transaction.

06:47 EDT Brown & Brown acquires assets of Chapp and Citrus Insurance Services - Brown & Brown has acquired the assets of Chapp and Citrus Insurance. Chapp and Citrus Insurance are essential risk management partners for their customers in Florida and across the U.S. by providing insurance solutions for all aspects of agricultural business risk originally founded by Ed Crawford in 1976. The Chapp/Citrus team will join Brown & Brown's offices in Lakeland and Sebring, Florida and will work alongside Stacey Heacock, profit center leader of the Lakeland office, and Jason Cloar, executive vice president and leader of Brown & Brown's southwest Florida operations.

06:40 EDT MarketAxess reports Q1 trading volume up 9.2% year-over-year - MarketAxess reported trading volume and preliminary variable transaction fees per million - FPM - for March and Q1 2024. Record total credit average daily trading volume or ADV was $15.0B, up 9.2%. Preliminary FPM for total credit for 1Q24 was approximately $154 vs. $165 in the prior year, and $156 in 4Q23. The decline in total credit FPM compared to the prior year was due principally to product mix shift. The preliminary FPM for total rates was approximately $4.70 vs. $4.12 in the prior year. Record U.S. high-grade ADV of $7.5B, up 18.0% on a 21.3% increase in estimated market ADV. Estimated market share of 19.3%, down from 19.9% in the prior year. U.S. high-yield ADV of $1.4B, down 29.4%. Estimated market share of 12.9%, down from 18.3% in the prior year. U.S. high-yield estimated market ADV increased 0.5%. CEO Chris Concannon commented: "In Q1, we delivered record total credit ADV of $15.0B, driven by an 18.0% increase in U.S. high-grade ADV, a 17.3% increase in emerging markets ADV and a 10.6% increase in Eurobonds ADV. Record levels of ADV across these product areas helped offset significantly lower levels of U.S. high-yield trading activity on the platform, driven by continued low levels of credit spread volatility. The roll-out of MarketAxess X-Pro is continuing and client engagement is increasing with approximately 12.5% of U.S. credit trading volume executed on X-Pro in the quarter."

06:34 EDT InfuSystem receives late filing notice for its 2023 annual report from NYSE - InfuSystem has received notice from the NYSE Regulation stating that the company is not in compliance with continued listing standards because the company failed to timely file its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year 2023 due to be filed with the SEC no later than April 1, 2024. The vompany has been unable to file the Delinquent Report because the company requires additional time to complete its procedures to evaluate potential errors related to the classification of certain expenses included in general and administrative costs that should have been included in cost of sales, and the adoption and ongoing application of ASC 842. The vompany will have six months from the date of the Filing Delinquency to file the Delinquent Report with the SEC. If the company fails to file the Delinquent Report during the Initial Cure Period, the Exchange may, in its sole discretion, grant an up to six-month additional cure period. If the Exchange determines that an Additional Cure Period is not appropriate, suspension and delisting procedures will commence. The company intends to regain compliance with the Exchange's continued listing standards.

06:32 EDT Aveanna names Jerry Perchik as Chief Legal Officer and Secretary - Aveanna Healthcare announced the appointment of Jerry Perchik to serve as Chief Legal Officer and Secretary, effective April 29. Jerry Perchik has more than fifteen years of corporate law experience in the healthcare industry. He most recently served as Chief Legal Officer for MedQuest Associates and has served in corporate leadership roles in a legal capacity for both publicly traded and private equity sponsored companies.

06:12 EDT MannKind repays certain debt obligations - MannKind has repaid in full all outstanding indebtedness under both its credit and security agreement with MidCap Financial Trust and its convertible promissory note issued to Mann Group. On April 1, MannKind made a payment to the lenders under the Loan Agreement of approximately $31.6M, including a contractually obligated exit fee of $2.8M and a prepayment fee of approximately $0.3M, in full satisfaction of all of the company's debt obligations under the Loan Agreement, which would have matured on August 1, 2025. In addition, on April 2, MannKind satisfied its obligations under the Note in exchange for payment to the Mann Group of approximately $8.9M and the issuance of 1.5 million shares of MannKind's common stock. Upon receipt of this consideration, all indebtedness under the Note was satisfied in full and all obligations under the Note were automatically terminated.

06:07 EDT Oppenheimer & Co. appoints William Bird as director of equity research - Oppenheimer & Co. announced the appointment of William Bird as Director of Equity Research. Bird, who previously served as Managing Director, Head of Thematic Research, succeeds John Parks, who is retiring from Oppenheimer after 35 years of service.

06:06 EDT Assa Abloy acquires Messerschmitt Systems in Germany - Assa Abloy has acquired Messerschmitt Systems, a well-established German developer and manufacturer of access control hardware and software solutions for the hospitality market including products for access control and in-room control. Messerschmitt Systems was founded in 1985 and has some 100 employees. The main office is located in Schwaig, East of Nurnberg, Germany. Messerschmitt Systems will be part of Global Solutions business area Hospitality. Sales for 2023 amounted to about MEUR 11. The acquisition will initially have a small dilutive effect to EPS.

06:04 EDT ObsEva announces delisting from SIX Swiss Exchange - ObsEva announced that the Regulatory Board of SIX Swiss Exchange has granted the delisting of the shares of the company from SIX Swiss Exchange and has exempted the company from certain obligations associated with the maintenance of the listing. The last trading day of the company's shares on SIX Swiss Exchange will be on Friday, May 3, and the delisting will be effective as from Monday, May 6.

06:02 EDT Blue Owl Capital to acquire Kuvare Asset Management for $750M - Blue Owl Capital has entered into a definitive purchase agreement to acquire Kuvare Insurance Services dba Kuvare Asset Management for $750 million. KAM is a boutique investment management firm focused on providing asset management services to the insurance industry, including Kuvare UK Holdings. Blue Owl will fund the KAM acquisition through a combination of $325 million in cash and $425 million in Blue Owl Class A common stock. The KAM acquisition is expected to close in the second or third quarter of 2024 and remains subject to customary regulatory approvals and other closing conditions and specified termination rights. Upon closing of the KAM acquisition, most KAM employees are expected to join Blue Owl. In addition, there is potential for up to a $250 million earnout subject to certain adjustments and achievements of future revenue targets. Separately, Blue Owl made a long-term investment in Kuvare, purchasing $250 million of preferred equity. This investment creates long-term alignment between Blue Owl and Kuvare and provides valuable growth capital to Kuvare's insurance companies, each of which will become new asset management clients of Blue Owl. Founded in 2015, Kuvare is a technology-enabled financial services firm operating several insurance and reinsurance businesses and has become a top 20 fixed and indexed annuity writer in the United States. Kuvare's business segments include retail, institutional reinsurance and specialty insurance advisory services. In addition to the preferred equity investment, Blue Owl and Kuvare entered into investment management agreements that will allow Blue Owl to deploy up to $3 billion of assets across its existing Credit, GP Strategic Capital and Real Estate investment platforms, which can grow over time. Upon the closing of the KAM acquisition, Blue Owl will be allocated up to $20 billion of AUM, in aggregate. Kuvare will continue to manage the overall asset allocations for its insurance businesses and strategic investments. Blue Owl's IMAs with Kuvare insurance companies will be additive to Blue Owl's permanent capital base while enhancing Kuvare's investment capabilities.These transactions are expected to be accretive to Blue Owl in 2024.

05:56 EDT Bristol Myers: European Commission expands approval of Reblozyl - Bristol Myers Squibb announced that the European Commission has expanded approval of Reblozyl to include the first-line treatment of adult patients with transfusion-dependent anemia due to very low, low and intermediate-risk myelodysplastic syndromes. This approval of Reblozyl covers all EU member states.