Lexaria Bioscience Corp. (NASDAQ: LEXX)

The QualityStocks Daily Newsletter would like to spotlight Lexaria Bioscience Corp. (NASDAQ: LEXX).

Lexaria, a global innovator in drug delivery platforms, has made incredible strides in 2023, most recently seeing interim results from its human pilot study evaluating its DehydraTECH(TM) technology for the oral delivery of GLP-1 drug, semaglutide

The company has also grown its patent portfolio to 37, with many others pending worldwide

For 2024, the company expects to maintain the same momentum, building on the success and achievements, and plans to double down on licensing its technology

Lexaria Bioscience (NASDAQ: LEXX), a global innovator in drug delivery platforms, in this past year, has demonstrated growing success in providing healthier delivery methods of drugs and other Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients ("APIs"), facilitated by its patented DehydraTECH(TM) technology. This has been driven by the company's research efforts throughout 2023 and ambitious plans for 2024.

Lexaria Bioscience Corp. (NASDAQ: LEXX) is a global innovator in drug delivery platforms. The company’s patented technology, DehydraTECH™, improves the way active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) enter the bloodstream by promoting healthier oral ingestion methods and increasing the effectiveness of fat-soluble active molecules. DehydraTECH promotes fast-acting, less expensive and more effective oral drug delivery and has been thoroughly evaluated through in vivo, in vitro and human clinical testing.

DehydraTECH is covered by 21 issued and more than 50 pending patents in over 40 countries around the world. Lexaria’s first patent was issued by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office in October 2016 (US 9,474,725 B1), providing 20 years of patent protection expiring June 2034. Multiple patents have been awarded since then and are expected in the future.

Lexaria has also collaborated with the National Research Council (NRC), the Canadian government’s premier research and technology organization. The company has been granted patent protection for specific delivery of nicotine, vitamins, NSAIDs, antiviral drugs, cannabinoids and more.

Lexaria began developing DehydraTECH in 2014 and has since continued to strengthen and broaden the technology. The company has no plans to create or sell Lexaria-branded products containing controlled substances. Instead, Lexaria licenses its technology to other companies around the world to offer consumers the best possible performance across an array of ingestible product formats.

The company’s technology is best thought of as an additional layer that providers of consumer supplements, prescription and non-prescription drugs, nicotine and CBD products can utilize to improve the effectiveness of their own existing or planned new offerings. Lexaria has licensed DehydraTECH to multiple companies, including a world-leading tobacco producer for the research and development of smokeless, oral-based nicotine products, and for use in industries that produce cannabinoid beverages, edibles and oral products.

DehydraTECH is suitable for use with a wide range of product formats including pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, consumer packaged goods and over-the-counter capsules, pills, tablets and oral suspensions.

DehydraTECH Technology

Lexaria’s DehydraTECH is designed specifically for formulating and delivering lipophilic (fat-soluble) drugs and active ingredients. DehydraTECH increases their effectiveness and improves the way active pharmaceutical ingredients enter the bloodstream. The major benefits to a subject ingesting a DehydraTECH-enabled drug or consumer product can be summarized by the following:

• Speeds up delivery – the effects of the product are felt by the subject in just minutes.
• Increases bioavailability – the technology is much more effective at delivering a drug or product into the bloodstream.
• Increases brain absorption – animal testing suggests significant improvement in the quantity of drug delivered across the blood-brain barrier.
• Improves drug potency – more of the ingested product is made available to the body, so lower doses are required to achieve the desired effect.
• Reduces drug administration cost – lower doses mean lower overall drug costs.
• Masks unwanted taste – the technology eliminates or reduces the need for sweeteners.

Lexaria has demonstrated in animal studies a propensity for DehydraTECH technology to elevate the quantity of drug delivered across the blood-brain barrier by as much as 1,900 percent, initiating additional new patent applications and opening possibilities for improved drug delivery.

Since 2016, DehydraTECH has repeatedly demonstrated, with cannabinoids and nicotine, the ability to increase bio-absorption by up to five to 10 times, reduce time of onset from one to two hours to just minutes, and mask unwanted tastes. The technology is to be further evaluated for additional orally administered bioactive molecules, including antivirals, cannabinoids, vitamins, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and nicotine.

Market Outlook

Lexaria’s ongoing research and development efforts are mainly focused on development of product candidates across several key segments:

• Oral Cannabinoids – a market estimated to be worth $18.4 billion in 2021 and expected to reach $46.2 billion by 2025.
• Antivirals – an estimated $52.1 billion market in 2021 that’s expected to grow to $66.7 billion by 2025.
• Oral Mucosal Nicotine – smokeless tobacco products, a $13.6 billion market in 2018, is forecast to grow at 7.2 percent annually through 2025.
• Human Hormones – estrogen and testosterone replacement therapies represented a $21.9 billion market in 2019, with a forecast CAGR of 7.7 percent through 2027.
• Ibuprofen and Naproxen – NSAID sales totaled $15.6 billion globally in 2019 and are projected to reach $24.4 billion by 2027.
• Vitamin D3 – the global market size was $1.1 billion in 2021, growing at 7 percent per year and expected to reach $1.7 billion in 2026.

Management Team

Chris Bunka is Chairman and CEO of Lexaria Bioscience Corp. He is a serial entrepreneur who has been involved in several private and public companies since the late 1980s. He has extensive experience in the capital markets, corporate governance, mergers and acquisitions, as well as corporate finance. He is named as an inventor on multiple patent innovations.

John Docherty, M.Sc., is the President of Lexaria. He is a pharmacologist and toxicologist, and a specialist in the development of drug delivery technologies. He is the former president and COO of Helix BioPharma Corp. (TSX: HBP). He is named as an inventor on multiple issued and pending patents.

Greg Downey is Lexaria’s CFO. He has more than 35 years of diverse financial experience in the mining, oil and gas, manufacturing, and construction industries, and in the public sector. He served for eight years as CFO for several public companies and has provided business advisory and financial accounting services to many large organizations.

Gregg Smith is a strategic advisor to Lexaria. He is a founder and private investor with Evolution VC Partners. He is a member of the Sand Hill Angels and held previous investment banking roles with Cowen and Company and Bank of America Merrill Lynch.

Dr. Philip Ainslie serves as a scientific and medical advisor to Lexaria. He is co-director for the Centre for Heart, Lung and Vascular Health, Canada. He is also Research Chair in Cerebrovascular Physiology and Professor at the School of Health and Exercise Sciences, Faculty of Health and Social Development at the University of British Columbia.

Lexaria Bioscience Corp. (LEXX), closed Wednesday's trading session at $1.28, up 3.2258%, on 6,015 volume. The average volume for the last 3 months is 15,872 and the stock's 52-week low/high is $0.6488/$3.5953.

Recent News

• Lexaria Bioscience Corp. (NASDAQ: LEXX) - Lexaria Bioscience Corp. (NASDAQ: LEXX) Provides Superior Drug and API Delivery with Patented DehydraTECH Technology
• TinyGemsBreaks - Lexaria Bioscience Corp. (NASDAQ: LEXX) Leveraging Commercial Viability of DehydraTECH(TM) in Aggressive Patent Application Push
• Lexaria Bioscience Corp. (NASDAQ: LEXX) To File its IND Application with the FDA for its planned U.S. Phase 1b Hypertension Clinical Trial

Scinai Immunotherapeutics Ltd. (NASDAQ: SCNI)

The QualityStocks Daily Newsletter would like to spotlight Scinai Immunotherapeutics Ltd. (NASDAQ: SCNI).

Scinai Immunotherapeutics (NASDAQ: SCNI), a biopharmaceutical company focused on the development of both inflammation and immunology. During the webinar, SCNI CEO Amir Reichman will present an overview of the company's performance throughout the year 2023, along with a discussion of the company's upcoming plans for 2024. Specifically Reichman will discuss the company's plan to commence clinical trials on its anti-IL-17 VHH antibody ("NanoAb") innovative psoriasis treatment. The webinar is scheduled for Jan. 9, 2024, at 10 a.m. ET.

To register for the webinar, visit https://ibn.fm/BibuA

To view the full press release, visit https://ibn.fm/XMBE1

Scinai Immunotherapeutics Ltd. (NASDAQ: SCNI) is a biotechnology company focused on developing, manufacturing, and commercializing innovative immunotherapeutic products primarily for the treatment of infectious diseases and autoimmune diseases.

In collaboration with the prestigious Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences (MPG) and the University Medical Center Göttingen (UMG), both in Germany, Scinai is developing a pipeline of innovative nanosized antibody (NanoAb) therapies addressing diseases underserved by current treatments and with large and growing markets, such as COVID-19, asthma and psoriasis.

NanoAbs, also known as VHH-antibodies or Nanobodies, are alpaca-derived nanosized antibodies that exhibit multiple significant competitive advantages over existing antibody therapies, including stability at high temperatures, superior binding affinity, more effective and convenient routes of administration and efficient production. Scinai is uniquely positioned to advance nanosized antibody innovation from R&D through commercialization.

The company’s highly experienced and successful pharmaceutical industry leadership team includes former senior executives from Novartis, GSK and Bristol-Myers Squibb.

Since its founding, Scinai has executed eight clinical trials, including a seven-country, 12,400-participant Phase 3 trial of a prior influenza vaccine candidate, and it built, owns and operates a 20,000 sq. ft. state-of-the-art GMP biologics manufacturing facility housing its laboratories, production facilities and offices.

Lead Candidate: Inhaled COVID-19 NanoAb

In December 2021, Scinai signed definitive agreements with the Max Planck Society – parent organization of the Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences– and the UMG to enter a strategic collaboration for the development and commercialization of innovative COVID-19 NanoAbs.

The company is planning a rapid development path that leverages its expertise and capabilities in biological drug development and manufacturing. Scinai anticipates preclinical proof-of-concept results for an inhaled COVID-19 NanoAb by the end of 2022, with initial Phase 1/2a human clinical trial results expected in 2023.

The intended inhaled mechanism of delivery of Scinai’s COVID-19 NanoAb formulation may serve as a significant differentiator when compared to approved monoclonal antibodies, which are injected. Inhaled delivery has shown to be cheaper, more convenient and likely safer for patients and providers.

NanoAb Pipeline: Psoriasis, Asthma and More

The COVID-19 NanoAb development agreement is part of a broader five-year research collaboration agreement signed in March 2022 covering discovery, development and commercialization of NanoAbs for several other disease indications with large market medical needs, including asthma, psoriasis, macular degeneration and psoriatic arthritis.

Scinai has an exclusive worldwide license for development and commercialization of COVID-19 NanoAbs and exclusive options for similar worldwide licenses for NanoAbs for the above mentioned additional large market disorders currently underserved by approved therapeutic antibodies.

Academic research teams from MPG and UMG have verified strong affinity by the new NanoAbs to their biological target molecules and high thermostability. They have also demonstrated strong neutralization by several NanoAb candidates of their respective target molecules. Neutralization studies of the other NanoAbs are expected to begin later in 2022.

Based on the promising results, Scinai will focus development efforts beginning with the following NanoAbs:

• NanoAbs targeting IL-17 as drug candidates for the potential treatment of psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis
• NanoAbs targeting IL-13 and NanoAbs targeting TSLP as drug candidates for the potential treatment of asthma

These are conditions for which the antibody target is validated by existing treatments and the mechanism of action is well understood. Both represent large medical needs and growing markets. Scinai anticipates preclinical proof-of-concept for at least one of these NanoAbs in 2023. This is in addition to the aforementioned human clinical Phase 1/2a for the inhaled COVID-19 NanoAb therapy, which is also anticipated in 2023.

CDMO Services

While NanoAb pipeline development is Scinai’s core focus, the company also offers its cGMP manufacturing facility, aseptic fill and finish suite, laboratories and experienced professionals for contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO) services. This offering is designed to keep the Scinai team abreast of the latest industry developments and trends while building experience and generating revenue to support the company’s NanoAb pipeline development.

Market Opportunity

COVID-19 treatment, target of the company’s lead NanoAb therapy candidate, had an estimated market size of $22 billion in 2021.

Future Scinai drug candidates will target conditions with large markets growing at attractive CAGRs.

The global asthma treatment market was valued at $18.08 billion in 2019 and is projected to reach $26.01 billion by 2027, exhibiting a CAGR of 4.5% during the forecast period, according to Fortune Business Insights. The research firm predicts that the global psoriasis treatment market will grow from $26.37 billion in 2022 to $47.24 billion by 2029, exhibiting a CAGR of 8.7% over the forecast period.

Management Team

Amir Reichman is Scinai’s CEO. He previously was Head of Global Vaccines Engineering Core Technologies at GSK Vaccines in Belgium. Prior to that, he held leadership roles at Novartis Vaccines’ Global Vaccines Supply Chain Management organization. He was the first employee of NeuroDerm Ltd., a company focused on transdermal drug delivery, and served as Senior Scientist until his departure in 2009. He earned a M.Sc. in Biotechnology Engineering from Ben-Gurion University and an MBA in Finance and Health Care Management from the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School.

Tamar Ben-Yedidia, Ph.D., is Chief Science Officer at Scinai. She has more than 30 years of experience in immunology, with specific expertise in the development of vaccines. She began her career with Biotechnology General Ltd., working on development of a recombinant Hepatitis-B vaccine. She later joined the Weizmann Institute of Science, working on the design of a peptide-based vaccine against several pathogens. She is widely published, with numerous refereed articles and invited reviews in various scientific journals. She received her Ph.D. from the Weizmann Institute.

Elad Mark is COO at Scinai. He has over 15 years of biotechnology industry experience encompassing diverse project stages including feasibility studies, conceptual and detailed design, commissioning, qualification and process validation. Prior to joining Scinai, he led Novartis’s $800 million investment in a biologics facility in Singapore. With Biopharmax and Antero, both global pharmaceutical engineering companies, he successfully led projects in Israel, China and Singapore. He holds a BSc. in Engineering from the Afeka Tel Aviv Academic College of Engineering and an MBA from the Open University of Israel.

Uri Ben-Or is CFO at Scinai. He has served as CFO with public life science companies traded on the TASE, OTC and Nasdaq. Ben-Or provides his services to Scinai through CFO Direct, a company he founded and for which he serves as CEO. He served as the VP of Finance of Glycominds, a leading biotechnology company, and as CFO of a spin-off from Telrad Networks. He also served as a Corporate Controller at Menorah Capital Markets and as an Auditor at PWC. He holds a B.A. in Business from the College of Administration, an MBA from Bar-Ilan University, and is a CPA.

Scinai Immunotherapeutics Ltd. (NASDAQ: SCNI), closed Wednesday's trading session at $0.69, up 9.3502%, on 19,101 volume. The average volume for the last 3 months is and the stock's 52-week low/high is $3.5953/$.

Recent News

• Scinai Immunotherapeutics Ltd. (NASDAQ: SCNI) - InvestorNewsBreaks - Scinai Immunotherapeutics Ltd. (NASDAQ: SCNI) Announces January Analyst, Investor Webinar
• New Research Redefines Pathophysiology of Rheumatoid Arthritis, Paves Way for Precision Treatments
• InvestorNewsBreaks - Scinai Immunotherapeutics Ltd. (NASDAQ: SCNI) Reports on Preclinical Results from Psoriatic Human Skin Trial

Freight Technologies Inc. (NASDAQ: FRGT)

The QualityStocks Daily Newsletter would like to spotlight Freight Technologies Inc. (NASDAQ: FRGT).

Freight Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq: FRGT) ("Fr8Tech" and/or "Company"), a technology company whose custom-developed Fr8App, an industry-leading freight-matching platform powered by AI and machine-learning that offers a real-time portal for B2B cross-border shipping and domestic shipping within the USMCA region, today announces conversion by investors of convertible debt to equity.

Investors in the Company's convertible notes have converted approximately $3.55 million in convertible notes into equity in the form of preferred shares.

CEO Javier Selgas commented: "The conversion is very positive news for the Company. The amount converted is a relevant amount that will help the Company continue being listed in good standing with the Nasdaq insofar as required minimum capital amounts for continued listing as of the end of our 2023 calendar year. We believe it is also a strong indicator of the significant support that a group of our investors continue to demonstrate in the Company's strategic direction. We continue to take steps towards improving our technology and offering our solutions to niche target markets across North America."

Freight Technologies Inc. (NASDAQ: FRGT) (“Fr8Tech”) is a technology company developing solutions to optimize and automate the supply chain process, providing a platform for B2B cross-border shipping in the NAFTA region. The company’s mission is to revolutionize cross-border shipping by providing carriers with increased growth opportunities and shippers with flexibility, visibility and simplicity for the once-complex process of international over-the-road shipping.

Freight Technologies, formerly known as Hudson Capital Inc., assumed its current name and ticker symbol on May 27, 2022. Its primary operating subsidiary and its marketplace are known as Fr8App, and it conducts operations throughout North America under the names of Fr8App and/or Freight App. The company is headquartered in Houston, Texas, with multiple locations across the U.S. and Mexico.

The Fr8Tech Solutions Suite

Fr8Tech leverages artificial intelligence to provide cloud-based platforms aimed at automating the over-the-road transportation process, effectively reducing human touch points and expediting load booking times. The company’s suite of solutions includes:

• Fr8app – A B2B marketplace powered by AI and Machine Learning offering a real-time broker portal to connect shippers with qualified carriers
• Fr8Radar – A tracking solution providing shippers and carriers real-time locational data via Fr8app’s mobile solution or through integration with third-party GPS alternatives
• Fr8TMS – A transportation management system designed to help shippers manage their freight and all of the documents involved in shipping transactions, including invoices, customs documents, confirmation rates and proof of deliveries
• Fr8FMS – A fleet management system allowing transportation companies to better manage their fleets, reduce operational costs and provide better service to their customers
• Fr8Data – A data solution offering real-time dashboards and reports to shippers and carriers in an effort to increase visibility and control while supporting better business decisions
• Fr8Fleet – A platform that provides private fleet management, enabling large corporate shippers to purchase dedicated capacity secured by Fr8app in exchange for a fixed fee

Commitment to the Environment

Through its core focus on technology, Fr8Tech seeks to reduce the carbon footprint of the logistics industry. Its solutions aim to minimize empty miles for transportation firms and reduce overall paper consumption.

Fr8University

Fr8University is an educational program offering classroom and on-the-job training for Fr8Tech team members. Through the program, employees learn in-depth business fundamentals and applications along the truckload freight industry value chain.

Led by corporate educator Mario Mena, Fr8University is designed as an investment in the company’s human capital, providing an opportunity to communicate Fr8Tech’s corporate culture while accelerating operational growth.

Market Outlook

Fr8Tech’s established foothold in Mexico is key to its current efforts to promote sustainable growth in the cross-border shipping industry. Ongoing disruption in U.S.-Chinese trade relations have strengthened Mexico’s status as the largest trading partner of the U.S., with cross-border annual freight spending estimated at $385 billion according to data from the U.S. Department of Transportation. Annual domestic shipping in Mexico is estimated at $34 billion, while annual domestic shipping in the U.S. is estimated to total $732 billion.

Despite the size of this industry, fragmentation and inefficiencies prevail in the space. Thousands of legacy brokers, tens of thousands of shippers and hundreds of thousands of carriers still rely on outdated systems to arrange transport, spending hours on the phone negotiating pricing, waiting days to find trucks and drivers, preparing and printing forms, and operating without tracking or visibility. Add in cross-border complexity relating to customs and additional paperwork, and you have an industry ripe for technological disruption.

Fr8Tech’s recent revenue growth trends have highlighted the company’s efforts to capitalize on this opportunity. In 2021, Fr8Tech achieved revenues of $21.5 million, marking a year-over-year increase of 134%. The company issued revenue guidance for fiscal 2022 of $40 million in a February 9, 2022, press release, which would account for a further 86% year-over-year increase.

Management Team

Javier Selgas is CEO and a Director of Freight Technologies Inc. and Freight App Inc. He brings to the company over 15 years of experience developing technology and digital marketing strategies, including serving as Country Manager for Osigu, Spain, and as head of AJEgroup’s IT division for the Asia-Pacific region. Prior to joining Fr8Tech, Mr. Selgas founded digital marketing agency Lanzadera Online. He has also served as an IT consultant to major corporations, including Endesa and Ibermatica.

Mike Flinker is President of Fr8Tech. He has over four decades of experience in the transportation industry, with 30+ years focused on cross-border logistics. Prior to joining Fr8Tech, Mr. Flinker founded FLS Transportation, the largest cross-border logistics company in Canada. He also previously held positions with Clarke Transport Inc., Canadian Pacific and Reimer Express Inc. (a division of Roadway Express).

Paul Freudenthaler is the company’s CFO and Secretary to the company Board. He has over 30 years of financial expertise, having previously served as CFO for several leading companies across multiple countries, including Macquarie in Mexico, Old Mutual in Latin America and Ascentium Capital in the U.S. Mr. Freudenthaler’s experience include leadership roles from which he guided IPOs and M&A transactions.

Luisa Lopez is COO of Fr8Tech. She brings to the company 25+ years of management experience in logistics, supply chain, operations and customer service. Ms. Lopez previously served as a Director of Landstar, where she was responsible for commercial and client development strategies in the Mexican market. Additionally, she managed more than 2,000 transport units specialized in staff and school mobility while with Traxion in Mexico.

Freight Technologies Inc. (NASDAQ: FRGT), closed Wednesday's trading session at $0.3599, up 7.8514%, on 3,092,048 volume. The average volume for the last 3 months is and the stock's 52-week low/high is $0.252/$6.70.

Recent News

• Freight Technologies Inc. (NASDAQ: FRGT) - Freight Technologies, Inc. Announces Conversion of $3.55M Convertible Debt to Equity
• InvestorNewsBreaks - Freight Technologies Inc. (NASDAQ: FRGT) AI Logistical Platform Chosen by Amazon Mexico for Second Consecutive Year
• InvestorNewsBreaks - Freight Technologies Inc. (NASDAQ: FRGT) Announces Strong Preliminary Earnings for Q3

Electronic Servitor Publication Network Inc. (OTCQB: XESP)

The QualityStocks Daily Newsletter would like to spotlight Electronic Servitor Publication Network Inc. (OTCQB: XESP).

Electronic Servitor Publication Network (OTCQB: XESP), a digital engagement company, today announced that it has finalized its purchase of the assets of PhiTech Management, LLC, a digital activation and engagement technology company. PhiTech provides customer and content workflow applications that are designed to connect people with customized content through dynamic content provisioning, creating relevant digital relationships. On Dec. 22, 2023, XESP acquired PhiTech's proven proprietary Digital Engagement Engine(TM), a sophisticated tech stack built on microservices architecture to help companies enhance the reach and lift of their content to targeted and new audiences. "The asset purchase of PhiTech allows XESP to further automate and enhance our foundational digital activation and engagement technology —the Digital Engagement Engine —while bringing increased value, efficiencies and growth for our customers," said Peter Hager, XESP CEO.

To view the full press release, visit https://ibn.fm/l8fJm

Electronic Servitor Publication Network Inc. (OTCQB: XESP) is a digital engagement company offering a managed service which provides digital activation and engagement solutions to companies that seek to optimize their growth. Its managed service is powered by a proven, proprietary technology – the Digital Engagement Engine™. This technology provides intelligent interaction management, dynamic content provisioning, and a logic-driven workflow, which creates digital experiences that accelerate an audience from awareness to action – driving growth.

Electronic Servitor Publication Network’s services are designed to drive growth for both established and developing organizations. Through the optimization of digital interactions within current and new communities, the Digital Engagement Engine™ ensures that client content is relevant, reaches the right audience, and connects with the intended person at the right time.

The company calls it ‘Growth as a Service’.

Client implementation is nearly effortless, since the solution is completely managed by the Electronic Servitor Publication Network team. This business model allows clients to focus on their brands, core product offerings, and content creation, while the company manages the technology and outcome.

The company is headquartered in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

Technology

Electronic Servitor Publication Network’s Digital Engagement Engine™ utilizes a combination of automation, unique data management, and a modern workflow built on a microservices architecture to achieve greater reach and lift. Using sophisticated data analysis and smart technology, the Digital Engagement Engine™ provides companies with the ability to maintain complete control of their content while creating meaningful relationships with new customers and revenue streams.

The Digital Engagement Engine™ isn’t just another marketing or technology tool; it’s a way to develop real connections with target markets.

Market Outlook

According to a report by ReportLinker.com, an award-winning market research firm, the global customer engagement solutions market was estimated at $19.3 billion in 2022 and is forecast to grow to $32.2 billion by 2027, achieving a CAGR of 10.8% during the forecast period.

The report notes that these engagement solutions are vital to companies seeking to widen their customer bases, reduce customer churn rates and increase customer retention. These perceived benefits of customer engagement solutions are likely to drive their growing adoption around the globe during the forecast period, according to the report.

Management Team

Peter Hager is President and CEO of Electronic Servitor. He joined the company from Pointward Inc., a medtech customer engagement agency that provided solutions to drive market entry, growth, and commercialization for Fortune 500 health care brands and medtech startups. He has founded and managed multiple technology, professional services and medtech organizations throughout his career. Mr. Hager holds a bachelor’s degree from Macalester College in St. Paul, Minnesota, with concentrations in economics and psychology.

Jim Kellogg is CFO of Electronic Servitor. He has served as the principal of J. Kellogg & Company Inc., a business and tax consultant, since 2005. He has provided legal support to clients’ business valuations, business interruption and divorce property valuations. He has worked as a professional tax adviser since 1983. Mr. Kellogg obtained his JD with emphasis on taxation from Western State University College of Law and was certified as a financial planner by the College for Financial Planning in 1990.

Thomas (Denny) Spruce, RPh, is COO of Electronic Servitor. He oversees company infrastructure, regulatory reporting, and strategic partner relationships, among other roles and responsibilities. He joined the company in March 2022 and, since that time, has implemented foundational support processes, developed contractual relationships with service providers, managed financial and regulatory reporting and overseen contract development and management with the legal team. Mr. Spruce obtained a BS in Pharmacy from the University of Arkansas.

Electronic Servitor Publication Network Inc. (XESP), closed Wednesday's trading session at $0.199, up 0.035188%, on 5,000 volume. The average volume for the last 3 months is and the stock's 52-week low/high is $0.05/$0.22.

Recent News

• Electronic Servitor Publication Network Inc. (OTCQB: XESP) - InvestorNewsBreaks - Electronic Servitor Publication Network Inc. (XESP) Acquires Assets of PhiTech Management LLC
• InvestorNewsBreaks - Electronic Servitor Publication Network Inc. (XESP) Acquires Pointward Inc. Technologies
• InvestorNewsBreaks - Electronic Servitor Publication Network Inc. (XESP) to Acquire Assets of PhiTech Management LLC

Appia Rare Earths & Uranium Corp. (CSE: API) (OTCQX: APAAF)

The QualityStocks Daily Newsletter would like to spotlight Appia Rare Earths & Uranium Corp. (CSE: API) (OTCQX: APAAF).

Appia Rare Earths & Uranium Corp. (CSE: API) (OTCQX: APAAF) (FSE: A0I0) (MUN: A0I0) (BER: A0I0) (the "Company" or "Appia") is pleased to announce the closing of its previously announced non-brokered private placement for gross proceeds of $1,462,100 (the "Offering"). In connection with the Offering, the Company issued 4,873,667 flow-through shares (the "FT Shares") at $0.30 per FT Share. The FT Shares issued under the Offering have a hold period expiring on April 28, 2024. The gross proceeds from the sale of FT Shares will be used for Canadian Exploration Expenses (within the meaning of the Income Tax Act (Canada) (the "Tax Act")) which qualify as a "flow-through critical mineral mining expenditure" for purposes of the Tax Act related to the exploration program of the Company to be conducted on the Company's properties located in Saskatchewan. The Company will renounce such Canadian Exploration Expenses with an effective date of no later than December 31, 2023. The Canadian Exploration Expenses to be renounced by the Company will qualify for the critical mineral exploration tax credit under the Tax Act.

Appia Rare Earths & Uranium Corp. (CSE: API) (OTCQX: APAAF) is a mineral exploration company focused on exploration activities at its newly acquired Cachoeirinha rare earths project (“PCH Project”) in Brazil, as well as delineating high-grade critical rare earth elements (REE) and gallium at its Alces Lake property in Saskatchewan. Other properties in Appia’s portfolio include its Elliot Lake Property in Ontario’s historic mining camp, with a large NI 43-101 uranium and rare earths resource. Fully funded with over $5 million (CDN) in cash, no debt, aggressive exploration currently underway, and experienced management, Appia is progressing rapidly on multiple fronts in highly desired market sectors.

The company is headquartered in Toronto, Canada.

Projects

PCH Project-Brazil

The PCH project hosts REE mineralization in both ionic clays developed from the weathering of alkaline granites and in-situ rare earth mineralization associated with the underlying granite and a carbonatite intrusion to depths greater than 100 meters. Sampling data shows enrichment in rare earth minerals to depths of between eight meters and +30 meters.

In early 2023, Appia announced a definitive agreement to acquire a 70% interest in the PCH Project, which is 17,551 hectares in size and located in the Tocantins Structural Province of the Brasília Fold Belt, Goiás State, Brazil. It is classified as an alkaline intrusive rock occurrence with the potential for highly anomalous REE and Niobium mineralization.

The region around Iporá, a city located roughly 30 km from the PCH Project, has significant mineral exploration and mining activity and well-developed infrastructure.

In July 2023, Appia commenced an aggressive auger and reverse circulation (RC) drill campaign to delineate a potential resource estimate at the PCH project. Initial results at the site revealed significant exploration potential with impressive values that often surpass known ionic clay deposits in Brazil, particularly for the highly valuable heavy rare earths Terbium and Dysprosium.

The auger holes drilled at Target 4 have exhibited a range of total REE grades, ranging from 274 ppm to 16,648 ppm (1.66%), with an average of 1,291 ppm total REE. The valuable rare earths used in magnet applications – praseodymium, neodymium, terbium and dysprosium (Pr, Nd, Tb, and Dy) plus yttrium (Y) accounted for approximately 14% of total rare earths, reaching a maximum of 28.4%. Notably, the deposit also contains anomalous values of niobium and scandium, with average values of 736 ppm for Nb and 62 ppm for scandium in a composite sample from Target 4.

Heavy rare earths (HREEs) show maximum values of 1,624 ppm and average values of 1,291 ppm, primarily as terbium and dysprosium. Light rare earths (LREEs) show maximum values of 14,024 ppm (1.54%) with an average of 1,145 ppm. Neodymium and praseodymium, the main magnetic light rare earths, show respective maximum values of 3,131 ppm (Nd) and 885 ppm (Pr) and average values of 216 ppm (Nd) and 61.7 ppm (Pr). The overall HRRE/LREE ratio has a maximum of 39.5% and an average value of 16.67%.

“Appia is thrilled with the progress made and the promising results thus far,” CEO Tom Drivas stated in a news release. “The company remains committed to advancing its exploration plans, aiming to promptly gather significant data throughout the year, and to work towards estimating a maiden mineral resource in the coming months.”

Alces Lake Project – Saskatchewan

Appia’s Alces Lake project, located in northern Saskatchewan, encompasses some of the highest-grade total and critical REEs and gallium mineralization in the world, hosted within several surface and near-surface monazite occurrences that remain open at depth and along strike.

Following the company’s acquisition of additional new mineral claims in the area in February 2023, Appia’s Alces Lake claim block now totals 38,522 contiguous hectares (95,191 acres) – 100% owned by the Company.

Appia announced the completion of a NI43-101 technical report on the property in June 2023, providing an update on exploration previously reported in March 2021.The report is available on SEDAR under the company’s profile.

Extensive diamond drilling and geophysics surveys are underway to explore a more than 25-kilometer structural corridor. In July 2023, the company issued an update on its diamond drill program having completed the first phase of drilling at the project’s Magnet Ridge Zone to further test the extent of the mineralization to the south south-east (SSE). President Stephen Burega noted the presence of “continued mineralization at significantly thicker intercepts.”

As part of its 2023 exploration program at Alces Lake, Appia plans to target priority areas that extend SSE from the Wilson, Richard, Charles, Bell, Ivan, Dylan, Dante and AMP zones through the Magnet Ridge Zone and beyond, covering an area extending approximately 20 kilometers in length and 5 to 7 km in width. Appia will also undertake reconnaissance drilling on priority regional geological and geophysical targets in the Western Anomaly area.

Other Projects

• Appia holds a total of 75,314 hectares (186,106 acres) of land on four uranium claim blocks in the prolific Athabasca Basin (Loranger, North Wollaston, Eastside and Otherside). Exploration plans for these properties are expected to be announced once permits are in hand.
• Appia also has a 100% interest in 12,545 hectares (31,000 acres), with rare earth element and uranium deposits over five mineralized zones, in the Elliot Lake Camp, Ontario.

Market Opportunity

A report from Mordor Intelligence forecasts the global REE market is expected to grow from 168 million tons in 2023 to 206.25 million tons by 2028, marking a CAGR of 4.19% during the forecast period. The market is gradually improving following the economic and production restrictions of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Factors driving the market’s growth include high demand from emerging economies and the dependency of environmentally friendly technologies on rare earth elements.

According to UxC, one of the nuclear industry’s leading market research and analysis companies, the uranium market is rapidly becoming production-driven, where spot and long-term prices more closely correlate to the marginal cost of uranium production.

Although global reactor requirements are projected to be flat through 2024, UxC forecasts that significant demand growth from 2025 to 2040 will necessitate new production as resources are exhausted at several uranium projects. In addition, a large percentage of production exists in regions of the world with high geopolitical risk, which makes the market vulnerable to future disruptions and price volatility.

Management Team

Tom Drivas is CEO of Appia Rare Earths & Uranium Corp. He is an entrepreneur with over 30 years of experience in various industries, including over 20 years in the mineral resource industry. He is also currently a director of Romios Gold Resources Inc., a publicly traded company he founded in 1995.

Stephen Burega is President of Appia. He brings 16 years of management and operations experience in the mining and natural resources sectors. His extensive emerging markets background, along with a deep understanding of stakeholder management, social development and structured community engagement, position him well to lead Appia’s First Nations community engagements. He is also President and CEO of Romios Gold Resources which is focused on base and precious metal exploration in North America.

Frank van de Water is the company’s CFO. He holds CPA and CA designations and has been involved with international mining, metals and resource companies in North America, Latin America, Europe and Africa for more than 40 years.

Dr. Irvine R. Annesley, Ph.D., is VP Exploration at Appia. He is a licensed geoscientist (P.GEO.) and Professor in Economic (Mining and Mineral Exploration) Geology at École Nationale Supérieure de Géologie in France and an Adjunct Professor in Geology at the University of Saskatchewan. He has over 35 years of global exploration and applied research experience in uranium, gold and base metals exploration, most recently with Athabasca uranium explorer JNR Resources Inc.

Don Hains, P.Geo., is the company’s Consulting Geologist and Qualified Person Consulting Industrial Minerals Expert.

Antonio Vitor is Appia’s Country Manager, Brazil. He has a track record as a portfolio manager and board member. He has held multiple significant positions, including Territory Manager at Shell, as well as Senior Project Planning and Consulting roles at PwC and Petrobras.

Jack Lifton is the company’s Senior Technical Advisor and Consultant. He is an author and lecturer on the market fundamentals of technology metals.

Appia Rare Earths & Uranium Corp. (OTCQX: APAAF), closed Wednesday's trading session at $0.1832, up 11.0303%, on 88,095 volume. The average volume for the last 3 months is and the stock's 52-week low/high is $0.075/$0.272.

Recent News

• Appia Rare Earths & Uranium Corp. (CSE: API) (OTCQX: APAAF) - Appia Announces Closing of Non-Brokered Flow-Through Private Placement
• InvestorNewsBreaks - Appia Rare Earths & Uranium Corp. (CSE: API) (OTCQX: APAAF) (FSE: A0I0) Launches Redesigned Corporate Website
• InvestorNewsBreaks - Appia Rare Earths & Uranium Corp. (CSE: API) (OTCQX: APAAF) (FSE: A0I0) Announces Sc, Co, REE Mineralization at New Buriti Target

Mullen Automotive Inc. (NASDAQ: MULN)

The QualityStocks Daily Newsletter would like to spotlight Mullen Automotive Inc. (MULN).

Mullen Automotive (NASDAQ: MULN), an emerging electric vehicle ("EV") manufacturer, today announced the successful completion of solid-state polymer cell to pack integration for the Mullen ONE Class 1 EV cargo vans. Having completed pack development, the solid-state BMS and pack level testing is set to kick off on Dec. 28, 2023. The progress allows Mullen to remain on schedule to begin on-vehicle road testing of the solid-state polymer packs in the Class 1 EV cargo van in the first quarter of 2024. "We continue to make significant progress in fulfilling our commitment to providing the next-generation of battery technology to our lineup of EV vehicles, providing a clean and safe alternative to current lithium-ion batteries," said David Michery, CEO and chairman of Mullen Automotive.

To view the full press release, visit https://ibn.fm/yeDJI

Mullen Automotive Inc. (NASDAQ: MULN) is a Southern California-based automotive company that owns and partners with several synergistic businesses working toward the unified goal of creating clean and scalable energy solutions. Mullen has evolved over the past decade in sync with consumers and technology trends. Today, the company is working diligently to provide exciting EV options built entirely in the United States and made to fit perfectly into the American consumer’s life. Mullen strives to make EVs more accessible than ever by building an end-to-end ecosystem that takes care of all aspects of EV ownership.

Commencement of Trading on Nasdaq

On November 5, 2021, Mullen announced its commencement of trading on the Nasdaq Capital Market.

“Today is a monumental day for Mullen Automotive. I am especially proud of our team, investors and all who have believed in Mullen and taken us to this point as a publicly traded company on the Nasdaq Capital Market,” David Michery, CEO and Chairman of Mullen Automotive, stated in the news release. “Trading on Nasdaq now opens us up to new investors, both institutional and retail shareholders, and broadens our awareness and company profile, while increasing awareness of Mullen and our technology platform and opening new opportunities in EV and beyond. The road ahead has never been brighter for Mullen, and I am proud to lead us into the future.”

The milestone came in the wake of the company’s stock-for-stock merger with Net Element Inc.

The Mullen FIVE

The Mullen FIVE EV Crossover, debuting at the Los Angeles International Auto Show (LAIAS) on November 17, 2021, embodies Mullen’s Southern California roots with an inspired design focused on two complementary Golden State themes – California landscape and California urban.

The FIVE is built on an EV Crossover skateboard platform that offers multiple powertrain configurations and trim levels in a svelte design that is Strikingly Different™ and exciting to experience in person.

Prior to the start of LAIAS, the Mullen FIVE was selected as a finalist by the LA Auto Show for Top EV SUV in the ZEVA “People’s Choice” Awards.

LAIAS provides Mullen an opportunity to display multiple variants of the FIVE model while also showcasing its powertrain, battery and charging technology. The company intends to bring the FIVE to market in 2024, and reservations are currently open here.

Mullen’s development portfolio also includes EV Fleet Vans, which it intends to bring to market in Q2 2022, and the pure electric, high performance Mullen DragonFLY.

Expansion of Manufacturing Capacity

On November 2, 2021, Mullen announced plans to expand its facility in Robinsonville, Mississippi.

Mullen’s Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering Facility (AMEC) currently occupies 124,000 square feet of manufacturing space. The total available land on the property is over 100 acres, and Mullen is moving ahead with plans to build out another 1.2 million square feet of manufacturing space to support class 1 and class 2 EV cargo vans and the Mullen FIVE EV Crossover.

On the expanded site, Mullen plans to build a body shop, a fully automated paint shop and a general assembly shop.

EV Market Outlook

The global EV market was reported to consist of 3,269,671 units in 2019, a figure that is expected to grow at a CAGR of 21.1% through 2030 to a total of 26,951,318 units worldwide. This market’s monetary value was estimated at $162.34 billion in 2019 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 22.6%, resulting in an approximate value of $802.81 billion by 2027. The primary driver for this exponential growth is a worldwide increase in vehicle emissions regulations.

Management Team

David Michery is the CEO and Founder of Mullen and has been leading the company and its divisions since inception in 2014. With over 25 years of executive management, marketing, distressed assets, and business restructuring experience, Mr. Michery brings a wealth of relevant knowledge and expertise to the Mullen brand. He has notably created 12 trademarks so far to develop the company brand and vision.

Mr. Michery is working toward a sustainable future accessible to all by creating a suite of clean-energy electric vehicles at varied price points. With entirely U.S.-based manufacturing and operations, he is also determined to have Mullen Technologies play a role in shaping a self-sustaining local economy by creating more jobs in America.

Mr. Michery manages risks and company expectations as a pathway to success and has personally overseen several businesses that totaled over $1 billion in transactions. His key strength is the ability to be fiscally responsible and lead teams to complete projects on time and within budget. As a seasoned professional in this space, Mr. Michery has demonstrated skill in building businesses from the ground up and into successful entities that subsequently sold for hundreds of millions of dollars.

Mullen Automotive Inc. (MULN), closed Wednesday's trading session at $11, off by 0.317173%, on 1,914,975 volume. The average volume for the last 3 months is and the stock's 52-week low/high is $6.95/$10743.75.

Recent News

• Mullen Automotive Inc. (NASDAQ: MULN) - InvestorNewsBreaks - Mullen Automotive Inc. (NASDAQ: MULN) Completes Solid-State Polymer Cell to Pack Development, Commences Class 1 Battery Pack Testing
• InvestorNewsBreaks - Mullen Automotive Inc. (NASDAQ: MULN) Announces Delivery of 63 Additional Class 3 Vehicles to RMA Group
• InvestorNewsBreaks - Mullen Automotive Inc. (NASDAQ: MULN) Achieves Important Milestone, 'Laser-Focused on Commercial Vehicle Production and Customer Deliveries'

Turbo Energy S.A. (NASDAQ: TURB)

The QualityStocks Daily Newsletter would like to spotlight Turbo Energy S.A. (NASDAQ: TURB).

Turbo Energy (NASDAQ: TURB), the leading energy-saving technology company leveraging artificial intelligence software, today announced its unaudited interim financial results for the six months ended June 30, 2023. "The year 2023 has been a period in which the residential and industrial self-consumption photovoltaic sector has been affected by a variety of external factors that have led to a reduction in volumes," Turbo Energy management commented on the results. "The company, however, remains very optimistic about the coming years. This optimism comes from the strong development in artificial intelligence product lines and software that Turbo Energy has done and is doing. The positioning of Turbo Energy products at residential, industrial and utility level and the strong commitment to continuous software development combined with artificial intelligence that optimizes energy savings will keep the company at the forefront of the industry… Turbo Energy expects strong growth in the coming years, both due to sectoral expectations and to the international and product expansion plan initiated after the IPO last September."

In addition, the company announced a transition in its management structure resulting from the governance policies of the holding company. The responsibilities of Enrique Selva as CEO of Umbrella Solar Investment (BME: USI), and the considerable growth and development the organization has experienced, require a necessary transition from his role as CEO of Turbo Energy to chairman of the board. Mariano Soria, a professional with more than 20 years of experience as CEO of companies across various sectors, who for the last year has been acting as managing director of Turbo Energy, will assume the role of CEO of the company. Soria's main objective will be to lead and complete the team with the talent required to lead Turbo Energy through the development and fulfillment of its business plan.

To view the full press releases, visit https://ibn.fm/3NHM2 and https://ibn.fm/TItQP

Turbo Energy S.A. (NASDAQ: TURB) designs, develops and distributes equipment for the generation, management and storage of photovoltaic energy in Spain, Europe and internationally.

Turbo Energy’s products include lithium-ion batteries and inverters. Additionally, the company recently launched its flagship product, the Sunbox, an all-in-one device that integrates most of the equipment required for a residential photovoltaic installation. The Sunbox is powered by AI and features a software system that monitors the generation, use and management of photovoltaic energy by analyzing large amounts of data related to energy generation, consumption, market prices and weather forecasts. This AI system optimizes battery usage, reducing electricity bills and providing peak-use reduction and uninterruptible power supply functions.

Turbo Energy currently sells its photovoltaic energy equipment primarily through distributors for residential consumers in Spain, but it possesses the expertise and international perspective to expand its product portfolio into industrial and commercial scale and markets, as well as advancing the internationalization process it has already started. The company plans to expand into the industrial photovoltaic sector with its new Sunbox, launched in 2023, in higher power and capacity variants. Its goal is to become a significant player in this sector and contribute to the growth of renewable energy solutions.

The company was incorporated in 2013 and is based in Valencia, Spain. It operates as a subsidiary of Umbrella Solar Investment S.A.

Products

Lithium-Ion Batteries

Turbo Energy is one of the leading companies that introduced lithium-ion batteries for photovoltaic energy storage in Spain. Primarily for the home energy storage market, the company’s batteries have capacities from 2.24 kWh to 5.1 kWh in 24 and 48 volts. In addition, its 48V / 5.1 kWh units are available in a dual battery system.

Inverters

The inverter converts the direct current produced by the photovoltaic panels into alternating current that can be used by household appliances. It also regulates battery charging and discharging based on energy needs and optimizes utilization of generated renewable energy. Turbo Energy currently offers multiple models that cover most household installations.

All-in-One Sunbox

This product incorporates inverters, batteries and the rest of the components necessary to operate and protect the photovoltaic installation. This saves installation cost and assembly and configuration time while preventing errors. Notably, the latest Sunbox models also offer an EV charging option.

Software System

In communication with the inverter, the company’s software monitors energy flows between the photovoltaic panels, household consumption, storage and an optional electric vehicle charging station. The software allows users to customize an automatic backup mode based on weather forecasts, or manually select which part of the battery will be reserved for possible power outages. It also allows the battery to be used in a peak shaving mode, which leverages AI to trigger battery power when grid energy is most expensive, effectively reducing the amount of high-cost power drawn from the grid.

Market Opportunity

According to a report by Fortune Business Insights, a global research and reporting firm, the solar energy storage battery market was estimated to be worth $3.33 billion in 2022 and is projected to reach a value of more than $20 billion by 2030, marking a CAGR of 24.2% over the forecast period.

These batteries are crucial components of renewable energy systems, allowing for the storage of excess electricity generated by solar panels, so it can be used during times of no or low sunlight. By storing energy and supplying it when needed, these batteries reduce reliance on the power grid and maximize self-consumption while helping users avoid peak electricity rates. They also contribute to the transition toward a cleaner and more sustainable energy future by enabling residential consumers and businesses to use solar power even when the sun is not shining.

Management Team

Enrique Selva Bellvís is the CEO and founder of the Umbrella Group. In addition, he serves as vice-president of the Valencian Association of Energy Sector Companies industry group. Before his career in the solar energy sector, he was the founder and CEO of Innova Ingenieros Consultores. He holds a degree in industrial engineering with a specialization in energy from the Polytechnic University of Valencia and completed the Management Development Programme at the IESE Business School.

Mariano Soria is the Chief Innovation Officer for the Umbrella Group and serves as General Manager of Turbo Energy. He was CEO of Punt Moble XXI S.L. and continues to serve on that company’s board. Before that, he was the General Manager of REJMAR S.A., a land development company. He received his degree in industrial engineering and industrial organization from the Polytechnic University of Valencia, and his MBA from the European University of Madrid.

Alejandro Moragues is CFO of Turbo Energy. Previously, he held the position of Senior Corporate Auditor for U.S. company Euronet Worldwide Inc. and was an external auditor for PricewaterhouseCoopers. He holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration and management from the Polytechnic University of Valencia.

Manuel Cercos is Chief Commercial Officer at Turbo Energy. Previously, he held positions at Técnicas Aplicadas en Baterías S.L., where he served as Sales Director and Sales Manager. Before that, he worked as a Sales Technician at DAISA.

Turbo Energy S.A. (NASDAQ: TURB), closed Wednesday's trading session at $1.18, off by 3.901%, on 106,374 volume. The average volume for the last 3 months is and the stock's 52-week low/high is $1.03/$7.90.

Recent News

• Turbo Energy S.A. (NASDAQ: TURB) - InvestorNewsBreaks - Turbo Energy S.A. (NASDAQ: TURB) Announces Interim Results for Period Ended June 30, 2023, Transition in Management Structure
• Turbo Energy (NASDAQ: TURB) Plans for Global Expansion with All-In-One Residential Solar Energy Solution
• InvestorNewsBreaks - Turbo Energy S.A. (NASDAQ: TURB) Announces Movistar's Launch of GoSolar Solution

Ucore Rare Metals Inc. (TSX.V: UCU) (OTCQX: UURAF)

The QualityStocks Daily Newsletter would like to spotlight Ucore Rare Metals Inc. (TSX.V: UCU) (OTCQX: UURAF).

Ucore Rare Metals (TSX.V: UCU) (OTCQX: UURAF), a leading developer of rare earth element ("REE") processing technology, has released comments regarding the ban by China on the export of technology for the processing of rare earth elements ("REEs"). According to the statement, China announced a ban last week on the export of technology to produce REE permanent magnets and also confirmed its existing ban on technology associated with the separation of REEs. In the announcement, Ucore noted the Asian country's "virtual monopoly" on the processing of heavy rare earth elements such as dysprosium, observing that Ucore's current $4 million contract with the US Department of Defense ("DoD") to demonstrate its RapidSX(TM) rare earth processing technology could not have come at a better time. Currently, Chinadominates the global supply of rare earth components, accounting for an estimated 90% of the world's rare earth permanent magnets. Ucore noted that REEs are essential to a wide variety of modern technologies, including numerous military applications. Anticipating potential limited supplies of these REEs, the U.S. and Canadian governments have begun efforts to support domestic supply chains of range of these critical materials. As part of those efforts, earlier this year Ucore completed commissioning procedures for its Ontario-based RapidSX Commercial Demonstration Plant, which is designed for the separation of heavy and light REEs, and commenced its participation in a U.S. DoD demonstration program. "Recent events in China are a remarkable development," said Ucore chair and CEO Pat Ryan in the press release. "Ucore's focus on the separation and refining of these critical materials is of increasing strategic importance to the burgeoning North American rare earth supply chain. Our recently commenced U.S. DoD Demonstration Program could not come at a more important time."

To view the full press release, visit https://ibn.fm/oEl8Z

Ucore Rare Metals Inc. (TSX.V: UCU) (OTCQX: UURAF) is a critical metals (“CM”) separation technology company executing an ESG-centered plan toward establishing a comprehensive North American critical metals supply chain. The company has developed a transformative commercial-ready technology, RapidSX™, for separating and purifying critical metals. Ucore intends to deploy this technology in pursuit of a CM supply chain independent of China for Western original equipment manufacturers (“OEMs”), most notably in the automotive and renewable energy industries.

Ucore’s vision is to become a leading advanced technology company providing best-in-class metal separation products and services to the mining and mineral extraction industry. Its initial focus is on processing heavy and light rare earth elements (“REEs”), disrupting a supply chain that is dominated by China.

China currently controls about 80% of the world’s access to REE mining projects and over 90% of the world’s REE processing capabilities, and it produces about 95% of the goods containing REE components.

 

Ucore is working to scale Western supply needs by establishing REE separation and rare earth oxide (“REO”) production capabilities in cooperation with strategic upstream supply and downstream offtake partnerships. The company, along with its industry partners, aims to unlock access to Western REEs for current consumer, energy, manufacturing and military sectors.

By 2025, Ucore expects to commercially separate U.S.-friendly sources of REEs and supply OEMs with REOs required to produce rare earth permanent magnets (“REPMs”) – the essential component of electric motors and generators required to support the world’s transition to electrification and sustainable energy sources.

The company intends to contribute to this initiative through the near-term development of a heavy and light rare-earth processing facility in Louisiana and subsequent development of Strategic Metals Complexes (SMCs) in Alaska and Canada, as well as through the longer-term development of its 100%-owned Heavy Rare Earth Element (HREE) mineral resource property at Bokan Mountain on Prince of Wales Island, Alaska.

Ucore is headquartered in Halifax, Nova Scotia.

Projects & Technology

RapidSX™ Demonstration Plant

The Kingston, Ontario, RapidSX™ Demonstration Plant commissioning process is underway. Once commissioned, the plant is designed to demonstrate the commercial capabilities of the RapidSX technology platform.

The RapidSX demo plant will show:

• The techno-economic advantages of the RapidSX technology platform
• The processing of tens of tons of heavy and light mixed rare earth element concentrates in a simulated production environment
• The platform’s ability to operate for thousands of semi-continuous run-time hours
• Production of high-purity NdPr, praseodymium, neodymium, terbium and dysprosium rare earth elements for early OEM product qualification trials

The demo plant is located within Ucore’s 5,000-square-foot RapidSX Commercialization and Demonstration Facility and is run by its laboratory partner, Kingston Process Metallurgy Inc. (“KPM”).

RapidSX™ Technology

Innovation Metals Corp., acquired by the company in 2020, developed the RapidSX separation technology platform with early-stage assistance from the United States Department of Defense, later resulting in the production of commercial-grade, separated rare earth elements at pilot scale.

RapidSX combines the time-proven chemistry of conventional solvent extraction (SX) with a new column-based platform that significantly reduces time to completion and plant footprint, as well as potentially lowering capital and operating costs. SX is the international REE industry’s standard commercial separation technology and is currently used by all REE producers worldwide for bulk commercial separation of both heavy and light REEs.

Utilizing similar chemistry to conventional SX, RapidSX is not a “new” technology, but it represents a significant improvement on the well-established, well-understood, proven conventional SX separation technology preferred by REE producers.

Strategic Metals Complex

Ucore, engineering partner Mech-Chem Associates Inc. and KPM are developing the full-scale engineering for the company’s first Strategic Metals Complex (SMC). The SMC is a planned REE separation and rare earth oxide production plant slated to commence construction in Louisiana in 2023. It is scheduled to initially process 2,000 tons of total rare earth oxides by the end of 2024, increasing to 5,000 tons in 2026.

The company has three initial U.S.-friendly feedstock agreements in place for the Louisiana complex, along with multiple developing offtake agreements. It received a C$16 million+ incentive package offer from Louisiana Economic Development to support construction of the SMC.

Bokan-Dotson Ridge REE Deposit

Ucore has invested over C$35 million to establish and validate the Bokan-Dotson Ridge resource in preparation for mine design and permitting. Initial drilling is complete, and a Preliminary Economic Assessment has been issued. Next steps for the project include a feasibility study, detailed mine design and permit acquisition. The project can be “near shovel ready” for construction in less than 30 months after receipt of the next stage of development funding.

Market Opportunity

According to a report by Grand View Research, the global rare earth elements market was valued at $2.8 billion in 2018 and is forecast to reach a value of $5.6 billion by 2025, achieving a CAGR of 10.4% during the period. Market growth is driven by increasing demand for these elements in the manufacturing of magnets and catalysts for the automotive industry. Rising demand for electric vehicles to reduce CO2 emissions is expected to propel the use of permanent magnets in the production of EV batteries.

China is the major producer and consumer of REEs. To maintain self-sufficiency and to meet future demand, China has been raising the export tariffs on rare earth elements shipped to various countries, including the U.S., Japan, India, Brazil and the European Union. This led to the current supply-demand gap in these countries, as they rely on imports from China.

China reduced the exports of REEs by 72% in the second half of 2010 to preserve its reserves of these elements and continues to export REEs at reduced levels, thereby affecting industries such as automotive, oil and gas, and electronics, which require an ample amount of rare earth elements.

Management Team

Pat Ryan, P.Eng., is Chairman and CEO of Ucore Rare Metals. He began as a director with the company when he developed a heightened interest in critical metals. Before joining Ucore, he founded and led a multimillion-dollar automotive OEM design and lean manufacturing company. His understanding of complex supply chains across international markets has led to a prime positioning as the global auto industry transitions to vehicle electrification. He holds a Bachelor of Engineering degree from Dalhousie University.

Peter Manuel is Vice President and CFO of Ucore. Prior to joining the company, he practiced as a Chartered Accountant for more than 17 years, providing consulting services to companies in a range of industries, with a focus on the financial services and resource sectors. He spent 10 years in England and Ireland providing assurance, strategic planning, corporate finance and other consulting services to a portfolio of both public and private entities. He holds a Bachelor of Commerce Degree from Dalhousie University.

Michael Schrider, MEng, P.E., is Vice President and COO of Ucore. He is a multidisciplinary engineer who has been involved in manufacturing, engineering and managing complex structural and mechanical systems projects since 1989. He was the Founder, President and Chief Engineer of Schrider & Associates and Alton Bay Design, both engineering services firms. He holds a bachelor’s degree in naval architecture and marine engineering from the University of New Orleans and a master’s degree in mining, geological and geophysical engineering from the University of Arizona.

Mark MacDonald is Vice President of Investor Relations at Ucore. He has over 25 years of experience implementing award winning business development and marketing programs at regional and national levels. As Vice President of Sales, he was responsible for Mediapro Communication’s growth as AT&T Canada’s leading B2B sales partner. He subsequently became Atlantic Regional Vice President of AT&T Canada Corp. He holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree from Dalhousie University.

Ucore Rare Metals Inc. (UURAF), closed Wednesday's trading session at $0.71, off by 1.4231%, on 77,293 volume. The average volume for the last 3 months is and the stock's 52-week low/high is $0.395/$1.15.

Recent News

• Ucore Rare Metals Inc. (TSX.V: UCU) (OTCQX: UURAF) - InvestorNewsBreaks - Ucore Rare Metals Inc. (TSX.V: UCU) (OTCQX: UURAF) Comments on China Ban on Export of REE Tech, Notes Company's REE Focus Is of 'Increasing Strategic Importance'
• InvestorNewsBreaks - Ucore Rare Metals Inc. (TSX.V: UCU) (OTCQX: UURAF) Completes Final Stage of Demo Plant Commissioning, Begins DOD Demonstration Program
• Ucore Rare Metals Inc. (TSX.V: UCU) (OTCQX: UURAF) Gets Tax Exemption for US REE Processing Project, Subcontractors Also Selected

SOHM Inc. (OTC: SHMN)

The QualityStocks Daily Newsletter would like to spotlight SOHM Inc. (OTC: SHMN).

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has announced that changes to safety labeling requirements for opioid medications are receiving final approval and implementation. These changes are part of the agency's ongoing efforts to address the country's opioid overdose epidemic, a crisis that has taken tens of thousands of American lives over the past several decades and is still one of the most prolific killers in the country. The changes were first announced in April 2023 when the FDA notified application holders of Abbreviated New Drug Applications (ANDAs) and New Drug Applications of the impending arrival of saget labeling updates for extended-release/acting (ER/LA) and immediate-release (IR) opioid analgesics. The FDA also urged physicians to adopt a more patient-centered approach when they prescribe opioids for pain relief. For companies engaged in manufacturing generic analgesics, such as SOHM Inc. (OTC: SHMN), the new guidelines could help ensure that only those who need those medications can access them.

SOHM Inc. (OTC: SHMN) is a generic pharmaceutical manufacturing and marketing company with a vision of “Globalè Prospèro” (Global Prosperity). SOHM was founded in 1998 and is headquartered in Chino Hills, California.

The company’s primary goal is to create and produce cutting-edge generic medications that span a wide range of treatment areas, all while ensuring top-tier quality and keeping prices affordable. SOHM is dedicated to fully complying with all relevant regulatory prerequisites and upholding the most rigorous industry benchmarks, including the guidelines set forth by WHO-CGMP and USFDA.

Achievements and Milestones

SOHM is a recognized generic pharmaceutical manufacturer, with production and marketing of generic drugs covering all major treatment categories. SOHM also markets innovative formulations and packaging for various therapeutic segments, such as cosmeceuticals, nutraceuticals and OTC oral dosage formulations, with operations spanning India, the Philippines, Uganda, the U.S., the UK and the EU.

SOHM successfully launched a unique and innovative Salic-2 face wash, FōHM by SOHM, during the Oscar after party in Hollywood. The innovative Salic-2 offering in translucent gel form is marketed as an acne medication in the U.S. cosmeceutical market.

With proficiency in both manufacturing and marketing, SOHM stands out. The company holds licenses for producing over 300 products and has established distribution partnerships with firms in the United States, the Philippines and Uganda. Additionally, SOHM’s repertoire includes the launch of an innovative protein supplement, I-Prolec, featuring a distinct composition—a first-of-its-kind in India.

In 2012, SOHM gained recognition as “the most emerging company in the recent past” at the National Integrated Medical Association Conference. The company’s growth was underscored by its inclusion in the roster of ‘Fastest Growing Public Companies’ according to the Orange County Business Journal.

SOHM Today

SOHM brings all of its expertise and market knowledge toward a new vision. The company continues to develop, manufacture and market generic pharmaceutical drugs for various treatment categories. It offers its products in various dosage forms, including tablets and capsules, creams and topicals, ointments and liquids. The company also provides anti-arthritic/analgesics, dermatological drugs, gastrointestinal and respiratory drugs, biotechnology products, anesthetics, immunosuppressive agents and other various treatments. In addition, it offers a skincare line that includes dry dermatoses, mixed skin infection, acne vulgaris and seborrheic dermatitis products.

SOHM markets its products directly and through partner alliance agreements to drug wholesalers, mass merchandisers, chain drug stores and mail-order pharmacies primarily in the U.S. and has previously done business in the Far East, Africa and Southeast Asia. The company is working with its alliance partner in the African continent and Latin American countries.

SOHM has developed a comprehensive marketing strategy encompassing a diverse range of tactics to promote all products. SOHM uses the power of digital marketing channels, social media campaigns and targeted advertising to significantly enhance awareness and recognition of product offerings.

All distribution networks are strengthened through valuable partnerships. SOHM has gained access to the extensive U.S. market through a strategic alliance with different wholesalers catering to C-stores and retailers. The company has likewise partnered with a distribution firm that holds a remarkable network of more than 4,500 independent pharmacy accounts.

Additionally, a strong partnership with a prominent distribution network in New Jersey enables SOHM to facilitate nationwide distribution to big distribution houses, hospitals and retail chain stores which include but are not limited to Walmart, Publix, Sam’s and many more retail giants, thus extending the company’s market presence.

SOHM Long-Term

A report by Grand View Research estimated the global nutraceuticals market at $291.33 billion in 2022 and forecasts expansion at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.4% from 2023 to 2030. The report states primary factors driving the market growth are preventive health care, increasing instances of lifestyle-related disorders, and rising consumer focus on health-promoting diets. Additionally, increasing consumer spending power in high-growth economies is projected to contribute to the growing demand for nutraceutical products.

Grand View valued the global NSAID market at $19.55 billion in 2021 and forecast it would expand to nearly $30 billion by 2030, marking a CAGR of 5.36% for the period. Projected growth is attributed to factors like the rising prevalence of chronic pain across the world, coupled with a growing global geriatric population. In addition, increasing demand for OTC NSAIDs and the rising adoption of NSAIDs in treating headaches, migraine, toothaches and menstrual pain is expected to boost market growth.

Fortune Business Insights estimated that the global cosmeceuticals market was worth $54.57 billion in 2022 and projects the market will grow to a value of $96.23 billion by 2029, marking a CAGR of 8.4% during the forecast period. The report credits the projected growth to the prevalence of skin disorders around the world and the inclination of dermatologists to prescribe or recommend these products as compared to other treatments.

SOHM envisions a future where it evolves into a prominent global corporation, expanding its reach across international borders while upholding its fundamental core values. The company aspires to extend its export portfolio to encompass 11 countries, showcasing a robust international presence.

Aiming for financial stability, SOHM is committed to maintaining sufficient working capital to support its growth endeavors. The company’s forward trajectory involves strategic collaborations, mergers with diverse brands and a focused approach to business expansion through vertical integration and a balanced mix of organic and inorganic strategies.

In this pursuit, SOHM is dedicated to establishing its proprietary network of partners within the over the counter (OTC) sector. Furthermore, the company seeks heightened recognition within crucial therapeutic domains, including oncology, HIV, cardiovascular health, diabetes care and skincare-dermatology, solidifying its prominent standing in these pivotal segments.

Management Team

Baron Night is CEO, President, and Director at SOHM Inc. He has over 40 years of experience in various industries with extensive contacts in emerging markets. His leadership and track record are great assets to the company as SOHM continues to strengthen its position and develop large-scale distribution of generic drug lines.

David Aguliar, Ph.D., is the COO of SOHM. He has 22 years of experience in the pharmaceutical industry, including multiple research positions and scientific publications. He has an extensive background in pharmaceutical Chemistry Manufacturing and Controls (CMC), as well as quality assurance experience in preclinical and Investigational New Drug (IND) application filings of allogeneic cell-based therapies. He has a deep understanding of regulatory and clinical pathways, coupled with an extensive scientific and technical background in the fields of pharmaceuticals, biopharmaceuticals and gene editing tools research.

Dr. Krishna Bhat, MD PHD, FACC, has a cardiology practice of over 35 years in the field of Clinical and Interventional Cardiology. He is a recipient of the 2021 Hall of Fame Award from the American Heart Association, which was awarded in recognition of his commitment to excellence in the field of Cardiovascular Care through his leadership as an outstanding physician, researcher, and educator. He is also a recipient of the Miles Canada Fellowship Award and the J. Louis Levesque Fellowship Award from Montreal Heart Institute in Montreal, Canada.

Dewey Rushing is a Senior Compliance Remediation and Quality Professional with over 30 years of experience in Quality Assurance and cGMP Compliance for products regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). He served as a trained Consumer Safety Investigator at the FDA and Instructor at the Los Angeles District. He has in-depth knowledge in technology transfer of biologics and pharmaceutical products, as well as validation of manufacturing equipment, facility cleaning and critical utility systems maintenance. He has an extensive background in auditing GMP facilities, implementing quality systems and performing gap assessments of manufacturing processes and facilities. He has also directed remediation projects in response to federal compliance audit observations.

Sowmya Jacob, MBA-PGP, possesses over a decade of accomplished and evolving expertise in human resources management, along with manufacturing and operations management. She earned an MBA, complemented by advanced marketing certifications. Demonstrating a track record of achievement, she excels in cultivating collaborative work environments and orchestrating transformative changes that lead to heightened productivity. With adeptness in business analysis, she has occupied senior managerial roles, showcasing her mastery. An engaged participant in professional circles, she maintains active memberships in SPHR and CHRP.

SOHM Inc. (OTC: SHMN), closed Wednesday's trading session at $0.0013, off by 1.5152%, on 512,100 volume. The average volume for the last 3 months is and the stock's 52-week low/high is $0.0005/$0.0019.

Recent News

• SOHM Inc. (OTC: SHMN) - SOHM Inc. (SHMN) Releases New Product Line and Expands Manufacturing Operations in Carlsbad, California
• BioMedNewsBreaks - Why SOHM Inc. (SHMN) Is 'One to Watch'
• Senate Committee Hears How Drug Shortages Impact Patients

HeartBeam Inc. (NASDAQ: BEAT)

The QualityStocks Daily Newsletter would like to spotlight HeartBeam Inc. (NASDAQ: BEAT) .

HeartBeam Inc. (NASDAQ: BEAT) is a cardiac technology company that has developed the first and only 3D-vector 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG) platform for heart attack detection anytime, anywhere. The company’s proprietary ECG telehealth technology aims to redefine the way high risk cardiovascular patients are diagnosed in ambulatory and acute care settings. HeartBeam’s initial focus is on providing diagnostic data to help physicians with care management of patients with cardiovascular disease.

In August 2022, HeartBeam announced that it submitted its HeartBeam AIMI™ software for approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). HeartBeam AIMI is a platform technology to improve the speed and accuracy of heart attack detection in acute care settings. The company expects FDA approval by the end of 2022, and a full commercial roll-out of HeartBeam AIMI is targeted for Q1 2023.

HeartBeam sees submission of its first product based on its platform technology as an important milestone toward commercialization, which underscores the company’s continued progress toward making the HeartBeam AIMI platform widely available to help emergency department physicians quickly and accurately identify a heart attack.

While the FDA conducts its regulatory review, HeartBeam will focus on executing key components of its commercialization plan and subscription revenue model. It will also continue to engage in discussions with strategic institutions, including academic centers, regional healthcare systems and regional community hospital systems that can utilize HeartBeam products.

The company is based in Santa Clara, California.

Products

HeartBeam’s development portfolio includes two products:

• HeartBeam AIMI is software that provides a 3D comparison of baseline and symptomatic 12-lead ECG to more accurately identify a heart attack in acute care settings and, as noted above, has been submitted for FDA approval; and
• HeartBeam AIMIGo™, the first and only credit card-sized 12-lead output ECG device coupled with a smartphone app and cloud-based diagnostic software system for remote heart attack detection.

HeartBeam is developing AIMIGo, a medical-grade detection and monitoring technology for use in remote heart attack detection, thereby allowing physicians to diagnose a patient’s heart attack as it occurs, even if the patient is not at a medical facility. The company’s system, once approved by the FDA, can be used by patients at home or almost anywhere and anytime to help their physicians assess whether chest pain is the result of a heart attack or another cause. While approximately 82% of chest pain ED visits are unnecessary, patients delay approximately 3 to 4 hours after symptoms begin, increasing mortality rates by 40%. The company’s goal is to shorten the time to treatment outside of the medical facility to improve patients’ well-being.

HeartBeam’s AIMIGo is a powerful, portable and easy-to-use prescription-based product. It comprises a smartphone app, a credit card-sized ECG device placed on a patient’s chest, the HeartBeam cloud platform, and a digital portal for the physician to view ECG results and direct patient action. For the first time outside of a medical setting, HeartBeam AIMIGo enables patients and their clinicians to determine if symptoms are due to a heart attack, quickly and easily, so care can be expedited, if needed.

Pending FDA clearance, AIMIGo is initially intended to be available by prescription, and is reimbursable under existing remote patient monitoring codes (RPM codes). This provides a new revenue stream to physicians who before did not have a way to monitor these high-risk patients. The RPM codes provide a monthly reoccurring revenue stream to the company, as well. On average, at current reimbursement rates, the practice will receive $1,300+ per year per patient they monitor, and the company will receive $600 per year per patient from this RPM reimbursement.

Market Overview

Adoption rates of telehealth services increased dramatically in recent years, with the COVID-19 pandemic serving as a major driver of growth. Among the areas seeing the greatest expansion are cardiology, radiology, behavioral health and online consultation.

Encouraging this growth, governments are actively developing new policies and reimbursement guidelines to promote the use of digital health platforms. The U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), for example, has recently expanded reimbursement for telehealth services. U.S. market growth is also being driven by the rising prevalence of chronic conditions and the growing geriatric population.

Remote heart attack detection is a previously unsolved problem with a massive and underserved market that is several times larger than the $2 billion total addressable market (TAM) in the U.S. for ECG cardiac arrhythmia monitoring.

Approximately 8 million Americans have suffered at least one heart attack, and a total of 18 million have been diagnosed with coronary artery disease (CAD). Based on these figures, HeartBeam projects a total addressable U.S. market TAM valued at $10 billion annually for its AIMIGo solution for remote heart attack monitoring of CAD.

Management Team

Branislav Vajdic, Ph.D., Chief Executive Officer and Founder of HeartBeam, Inc, combines over 30 years of experience in technology development and senior management positions. Dr. Vajdic has been deeply involved with the development of HeartBeam’s technology to fit his vision for the company. Prior to HeartBeam, from 2007 to 2010, Dr. Vajdic was CEO and Founder of NewCardio, a publicly traded company in the cardiovascular devices space. From 1984 to 2007, Dr. Vajdic was at Intel, where he held various senior management position. At Intel, Dr. Vajdic was the designer of first Flash memory and two key inventions that enabled Flash as a product and led engineering groups responsible for Pentium 1 through Pentium 4 designs. Dr. Vajdic was awarded two Intel Achievement Awards, the highest level of award for outstanding contributions to Intel. Dr. Vajdic is author of numerous patents and publications in the fields of cardiovascular devices, as well as chip design. Dr. Vajdic holds a Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering from the University of Minnesota.

Jon Hunt, Ph.D., has over 35 years’ experience in the medical/medical device industry with extensive domestic and international experience in general management, clinical/regulatory, sales and marketing. He also has diverse experience in Fortune 500 companies, as well as start-up environments. Dr. Hunt was the Vice President of Clinical Science and Technology, Medical Device Innovation Consortium, from July 2019 to July 2021, and Vice President of Clinical and Regulatory Affairs, Cryterion Medical from January 2018 to June 2019 (acquired by Boston Scientific Corporation in July 2018 for $202M). Dr. Hunt was the Founding President and CEO of Bardy Diagnostics, Inc. from October 2013 to November 2017 (acquired by Hill-Rom Holdings, Inc.). Prior to joining Bardy Diagnostics, Dr. Hunt spent the previous 11 years as the Vice President of Clinical & Regulatory Affairs with Cameron Health, Inc. (acquired by Boston Scientific Corporation). Dr. Hunt spent the previous 10 years with Cardiac Pacemakers, Inc., St. Jude Medical and Cardiac Pathways Corporation. Dr. Hunt began his career with Cardiac Pacemakers, Inc. (now Boston Scientific Corporation) as the Director of Clinical Programs. He subsequently held positions at St. Jude Medical in Clinical Affairs and as the Business Unit Director for the Cardiac Rhythm Management division for Europe, the Middle East and Africa. At Cardiac Pathways Corporation, Dr. Hunt held various executive positions as Vice President of International Sales and Marketing and Vice President of Worldwide Sales and Marketing (acquired by Boston Scientific Corporation). Dr. Hunt received his Ph.D. in Motor Control from The Pennsylvania State University, his Master’s from California State University, Long Beach and his undergraduate degree from Keele University in the United Kingdom.

Rick Brounstein, HeartBeam’s Chief Financial Officer, combines over 30 years of experience in health technology senior management. Since 2017, Mr. Brounstein has been and is currently a partner of Hardesty, LLC, a financial services firm, and Mr. Brounstein is currently a managing director of CTRLCFO, LLC, a firm Mr. Brounstein founded in 2016 to support funded start-ups in life science and technology. From 2008 to 2011, Mr. Brounstein was Chief Financial Officer of NewCardio, Inc., a microcap public company in the cardiology space, and, over his career, he has been with nine other companies in life science or technology, holding positions including Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, Treasurer and Accounting Manager. From June 2001 through November 2007, Mr. Brounstein held several positions at Calypte Biomedical Corporation, a publicly traded medical device company, including Chief Financial Officer and Executive Vice President. In January 2007, Mr. Brounstein was appointed as the National Member Representative for the 2007 COSO Monitoring Project, which published new guidelines for monitoring internal financial controls in February 2009; Mr. Brounstein subsequently was a member of the FEI task force that issued the updated COSO Internal Control Framework in 2013. In March 2005, Mr. Brounstein was appointed to the SEC Advisory Committee on Smaller Public Companies. Mr. Brounstein earned his Certified Public Accountant (CPA) certification while working at Arthur Andersen LLP, formerly a public accounting firm. Mr. Brounstein holds a B.A. in accounting and an M.B.A. in finance, both from Michigan State University.

Ken Persen, HeartBeam’s Chief Technology Officer, combines over 28 years of experience in the medical device and digital health industries in engineering and senior management positions. Mr. Persen has been involved in several companies in Cardiac Rhythm Management, holding positions including Chief Executive Officer, Chief Technology Officer, Executive Vice President and Director of Engineering. Since 2016 and prior to joining HeartBeam, Mr. Persen was the Chief Technology Officer at LIVMOR, Inc., a digital health company. In addition, from 2016 through November 2021, he was also Chief Executive Officer of LIVMOR. Prior roles included Director of Engineering at Cameron Health (acquired by Boston Scientific), a late-stage medical device start up, and engineering and management positions at Guidant Corp. (acquired by Boston Scientific), a large medical device manufacturer. He has an undergraduate degree from University of Minnesota, Duluth, with a BA in Computer Science.

HeartBeam Inc. (NASDAQ: BEAT), closed Wednesday's trading session at $2.27, up 4.1284%, on 567,415 volume. The average volume for the last 3 months is 197,375 and the stock's 52-week low/high is $1.06/$5.30.

Recent News

• HeartBeam Inc. (NASDAQ: BEAT) - InvestorNewsBreaks - HeartBeam Inc. (NASDAQ: BEAT) Combines AI, Proprietary Technology to Deliver Unprecedented Cardiac Insights
• InvestorNewsBreaks - HeartBeam Inc. (NASDAQ: BEAT) Releases Q3 2023 Financial Report, Operational Update
• HeartBeam Reports Third Quarter 2023 Financial Results

D-Wave Quantum Inc. (NYSE: QBTS)

The QualityStocks Daily Newsletter would like to spotlight D-Wave Quantum Inc. (NYSE: QBTS).

D-Wave Quantum Inc. (NYSE: QBTS) is a leader in quantum computing systems, software and services focused on delivering customer value via practical quantum applications for problems such as logistics, artificial intelligence, materials sciences, drug discovery, scheduling, fault detection and financial modeling. As the only provider building both annealing and gate-model quantum computers, the company is unlocking commercial use cases in optimization today, while building the technologies that will enable new solutions tomorrow.

D-Wave is a pioneer in quantum computing, with a history of delivering the world’s first commercial quantum computer; the first real-time quantum cloud service; countless hardware and software product and research milestones; and the planned first cross-platform quantum solution which will deliver both annealing and gate-model quantum computers to customers via an integrated platform. Its current commercial product offerings include: Advantage™ (fifth generation quantum computer), Leap™ (quantum cloud service), Launch™ (quantum computing onboarding service) and Ocean™ (full suite of open-source programming tools).

D-Wave’s relentless pursuit of practical quantum computing has resulted in the technology being used today by some of the world’s most advanced enterprises – more than 25 of the Forbes Global 2000 use D-Wave.

D-Wave’s commercial customers include blue-chip industry leaders like Volkswagen, Accenture, BBVA, NEC Corporation, Save-On-Foods, DENSO and Lockheed Martin. The company boasts an extensive IP portfolio featuring more than 200 issued U.S. patents and over 100 peer-reviewed papers published in leading scientific journals.

Founded in 1999, D-Wave is the world’s first commercial supplier of quantum computers. With headquarters and the Quantum Engineering Center of Excellence based near Vancouver, Canada, D-Wave’s U.S. operations are based in Palo Alto, California.

Advantage™ Quantum Computer

 

With the Advantage™ Quantum Computer, D-Wave has incorporated two decades of experience and over 10 years of customer feedback to create the first and only quantum computer designed for business. The platform features a new processor architecture with over 5,000 qubits and 15-way qubit connectivity. This is 2.5x more connections and more than double the number of qubits than the company’s previous generation quantum computer.

D-Wave’s quantum computers, first located in its facilities in British Columbia, have been available to North American users through its Leap™ quantum cloud service since 2018. It has since introduced new Advantage systems in Julich, Germany, and most recently, Marina Del Rey, California, which marked the availability of the first Advantage quantum computer physically located in the United States.

That new deployment is part of the USC-Lockheed Martin Quantum Computing Center (QCC) hosted at USC’s Information Sciences Institute (ISI), a unit of the University of Southern California’s prestigious Viterbi School of Engineering. Additionally, Amazon Web Services (AWS) and D-Wave announced that the U.S.-based system is available for use in Amazon 2racket, expanding the number to three different D-Wave quantum systems available to AWS users.

Leap Quantum Cloud Service

 

D-Wave’s customers interface with its systems through the Leap™ quantum cloud service. Leap delivers immediate, real-time access to the company’s Advantage quantum computer and quantum hybrid solver service, all with enterprise-class performance and scalability.

Leap allows developers proficient in Python to get started building and running quantum applications. Through a seamless and secure cloud-based connection, users can easily start solving complex problems of up to 1 million variables and 100,000 constraints.

Using Leap, D-Wave customers have developed quantum hybrid applications for use cases in manufacturing, logistics, financial services, life sciences, materials science, retail and transportation. By eliminating the need to wait hours, days or weeks to get good answers to a broad array of problems, D-Wave is helping businesses move forward.

D-Wave Launch

D-Wave Launch™ is the company’s onboarding platform aimed at helping businesses easily start their quantum journey. Through this program, D-Wave’s team of experts and partners aid enterprises in identifying best use cases for quantum and work with them to develop a proof of concept and production pilot.

From there, the team coordinates with customers to get their hybrid quantum applications up and running, providing ongoing Leap quantum cloud access to ensure the application is operating smoothly and delivering real business value.

Target Verticals

While the potential applications for quantum computing are effectively limitless, D-Wave has identified a number of industry verticals as key areas of focus for its quantum architecture, providing case studies for each. These include:

• Manufacturing – D-Wave worked with Volkswagen to identify a commercial optimization application, the binary paint shop problem, which was run on D-Wave’s hybrid solver service. The solver outperformed four purely classical methods on problem sizes at commercial scale (N=3,000). In a separate project, similar inputs were tested using a leading ion trap system, which failed to find any commercial solution.
• Life Sciences – Menten AI makes use of D-Wave quantum computing to assist in the design of novel therapeutic peptides—short strings of amino acids that can act as potent drugs. With the rise of COVID-19, D-Wave’s Advantage system made it possible to identify molecules that might be especially well-suited for binding and inhibiting the related spike protein, producing several promising peptide designs.
• Finance – Multiverse Computing, a leader in developing quantum solutions for the financial sector, leveraged D-Wave’s hybrid solver service in a collaboration with BBVA, one of the world’s largest financial institutions. Multiverse demonstrated management strategies that far exceeded the granularity of traditional returns in a fraction of the time, helping BBVA identify a low-risk portfolio for investment.

Market Opportunity

The quantum computing total addressable market is projected to grow between $450 billion and $850 billion over the next 15 to 30 years, with between $5 billion and $10 billion of anticipated TAM growth coming in the next three to five years, according to Boston Consulting Group. Driving factors behind this growth include rising investments in quantum computing tech by governments and an increasing number of commercial use-cases.

Forward-thinking organizations see quantum as an opportunity to move ahead of the competition. From finding efficiencies and reducing waste to decreasing time to solution and solving problems abandoned due to complexity, the business value is real. According to data from 451 Research, 40% of large enterprises are already experimenting with quantum computing.

D-Wave is strategically positioned – in an industry with significant barriers to entry – as evident by a decades-long track record serving a roster of blue-chip customers. The company is singularly focused on helping its customers achieve clear value by leveraging quantum computing in practical business applications. With a full stack of systems, software, developer tools and services, D-Wave is working to enable enterprises, governments, developers and researchers to access the power of quantum computing, thereby providing an intriguing opportunity for prospective investors.

D-Wave’s current investor base includes PSP Investments, Goldman Sachs, BDC Capital, NEC Corporation, Aegis Group Partners and In-Q-Tel.

Leadership Team

Dr. Alan Baratz has served as the CEO of D-Wave since 2020. Previously, as Executive Vice President of R&D and Chief Product Officer, he drove the development, delivery, and support of all of D-Wave’s products, technologies, and applications. Dr. Baratz has over 25 years of experience in product development and bringing new products to market at leading technology companies and software startups. As the first president of JavaSoft at Sun Microsystems, he oversaw the growth and adoption of the Java platform from its infancy to a robust platform supporting mission-critical applications in nearly 80 percent of Fortune 1000 companies. He has also held executive positions at Symphony, Avaya, Cisco, and IBM. Dr. Baratz holds a doctorate in computer science from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

John Markovich is the company’s CFO. He brings to D-Wave over three decades of experience working with rapidly growing private and public technology companies across all stages of development. Mr. Markovich has directed the finance, accounting, tax, treasury, M&A, legal, operations, customer service, IR, HR, and IT functions for companies ranging from privately held pre-revenue startups to an NYSE-listed Fortune 500 multi-national company with over $1.2 billion in annual revenue. During his career, he has negotiated and closed over 150 debt, equity, M&A, and joint venture transactions exceeding $2.5 billion in value; over a dozen private placements; nearly a dozen M&A transactions; and several international joint ventures. Mr. Markovich holds a BS in Business from Miami University and an MBA from the Michigan State Graduate School of Business.

D-Wave Quantum Inc. (NYSE: QBTS), closed Wednesday's trading session at $0.97, up 0.216965%, on 843,310 volume. The average volume for the last 3 months is 1.479M and the stock's 52-week low/high is $0.3962/$3.20.

Recent News

• D-Wave Quantum Inc. (NYSE: QBTS) - D-Wave Quantum Inc. (NYSE: QBTS) Demonstrates Powerful Quantum-Hybrid Applications Through New Customer Success Stories
• InvestorNewsBreaks - D-Wave Quantum Inc. (NYSE: QBTS) Highlighted as Top Quantum Computing Company
• InvestorNewsBreaks - D-Wave Quantum Inc. (NYSE: QBTS) Partners with VINCI Energies, QuantumBasel to Leverage Quantum Computing in HVAC Design Enhancement

Starco Brands Inc. (OTCQB: STCB)

The QualityStocks Daily Newsletter would like to spotlight Starco Brands Inc. (OTCQB: STCB).

Starco Brands Inc. (OTCQB: STCB) is a modern-day invention factory. The company’s unwavering mission is to invent and acquire consumer products and brands with behavior-changing technologies that spark excitement in the everyday.

This consumer product company has grown from a few million dollars in revenue to a current run rate of approximately $67 million in annual revenue in one year.

The company has succeeded by identifying whitespaces in eight core consumer categories and then either: 1) leveraging its internal R&D capabilities and dedicated manufacturing network to invent new technologies and brands or 2) utilizing the management team’s extensive M&A experience to acquire brands that fill the industry void, delighting consumers and retailers alike.

Whether the brand is developed internally or acquired, the company employs a modern marketing playbook to ensure its brands are at the forefront of culture; garnering unprecedented media attention and engagement that supports a robust sales network.

Starco Brands’ core competencies are inventing technologies, acquiring companies, marketing, building trends, pushing awareness, penetrating media (social and otherwise) and executing cutting edge pull-through strategies with a roster of globally recognized celebrities, influencers and media and distribution partners.

A commitment to changing the way people approach everyday activities is innate in the company’s corporate DNA.

The company is based in Santa Monica, California.

Brands

Whereas other consumer products companies are content with evolution, Starco Brands has its mind set on creating a revolution across the industry. From disrupting the spirits industry with Whipshots, the world’s only vodka-infused whipped cream, to Soylent, the original food tech company, Starco Brands is putting the CPG world on notice. Its portfolio of brands includes:

• Whipshots is a first-of-its-kind alcoholic whipped cream launched in 2021 with celebrity partner Cardi B. Consumers have embraced this boozy concoction, putting it on top of cocktails, coffees and desserts, or enjoying it straight from the can. In just over a year, the brand has sold over 2 MILLION cans, making it one of the fastest growing spirits in history.
• Winona Pure gives consumers movie theatre popcorn in the comfort of their own homes. All the flavor and none of the additives is the story behind these all-natural, non-GMO popcorn seasoning sprays. A simple spray is all it takes to add the perfect pop of flavor to the classic theatre treat.
• Art of Sport, co-founded by the great Kobe Bryant, is the number one body care brand for athletes. With a growing line of personal care products tested by the world’s greatest athletes, these daily skin essentials give consumers everything they need to feel fresh, stay protected and confident and perform at their peak every day.
• Skylar is the first and only line of perfumes on the market that are hypoallergenic and safe for sensitive skin. With the strong support of industry titan Sephora, the brand has quickly attracted a loyal following.
• Soylent is a technological feat. Originally funded by Google Ventures and Andreessen Horwitz, Soylent is dubbed as the world’s most perfect food. Made from sustainably grown plant-based ingredients, Soylent’s line of products is scientifically developed to provide all the functional ingredients, vitamins, minerals, fats, carbohydrates and protein that the body needs – all in convenient, delicious and affordable packages. Soylent’s innovative product line-up includes complete nutrition powders, ready-to-drink shakes, 100-calorie snack bars, high protein nutrition shakes and energy boosting nutrition shakes. Soylent was also the recipient of the 2023 Product of the Year Award by Kantar, a global leader in consumer research.

With award-winning marketing talent, Starco Brands develops robust, integrated marketing plans for every brand in its portfolio, ensuring an impactful presence across all verticals.

Market Outlook

Starco Brands’ varied brand portfolio gives it access to the growth of numerous product categories that are ripe for innovation.

Through its February 2023 acquisition of complete nutrition pioneer Soylent, Starco Brands is positioned to capitalize on the projected growth of the plant-based nutrition space. Research firm Statista valued the plant-based nutrition market at $29.4 billion in 2020 and forecasts its value at nearly $162 billion by 2030, representing a CAGR of 18.7% for the period.

Likewise, Starco Brands gained improved access to the global fragrance market through its December 2022 acquisition of Skylar. According to a report by Grand View Research, the global perfume market was valued at $50.85 billion in 2022 and is expected to grow to a value of nearly $80 billion by 2030, achieving a CAGR of 5.9% over the forecast period.

The company is primed to expand its access to other growth verticals as it advances on its path to invent and acquire behavior-changing technologies and brands.

Management Team

Ross Sklar is the CEO of Starco Brands. A chemical formulator by trade, he started his first company while still in college. Since 2004, he has made over a dozen acquisitions with multiple exits and controls an eclectic collection of industrial, household, personal care and food and beverage manufacturers covering many consumer-packaged goods categories.

Darin Brown is the Chief Operating Officer of Starco Brands. With over 20 years of experience in chemical manufacturing, business development, finance and mergers and acquisitions, he has scaled the company from the ground up. He oversees all internal operations for Starco Brands and is an integral liaison between the company and Mr. Sklar’s manufacturing facilities.

David Dreyer is Chief Marketing Officer of Starco Brands. With over 25 years of experience working with blue chip and startup brands, he oversees all marketing initiatives for the company. Mr. Dreyer comes to Starco having worked with such standout brands as Apple, Pepsi, Pizza Hut, Dr Pepper, Snapple, Infiniti, The GRAMMY’s, Honda and Stamps.com. He is also a Professor of Advertising at USC’s Annenberg School for Communication.

Starco Brands Inc. (STCB), closed Wednesday's trading session at $0.17425, up 12.4194%, on 61,100 volume. The average volume for the last 3 months is 13,904 and the stock's 52-week low/high is $0.115/$0.265.

Recent News

• Starco Brands Inc. (OTCQB: STCB) - Starco Brands Announces Record-Breaking Performance of Skylar, Reinforcing Its Position as a Leader in the Clean Fragrance Sector
• LA Bowl Hosted By Gronk Partners With Starco Brands for Naming Rights to Bowl Game, Now Starco Brands LA Bowl Hosted By Gronk
• Starco Brands to Present at Upcoming Investor Conferences