Technology and Digital Entertainment
Zoomcar Holdings (NASDAQ: ZCAR) has launched "Zoomcar Cabs," a new service offering car rentals with professional drivers in Bengaluru. This pilot program expands Zoomcar's offerings beyond self-drive rentals, using AI technology for detailed car selection. The company plans to expand to other cities in 2025, based on the pilot's success. Read More
NIP Group (NASDAQ: NIPG) is entering the MOBA gaming market with "Re: Aetatis," a sci-fi mobile game set to launch an open beta on December 24, 2024. The company aims to diversify its business leveraging its existing esports ecosystem by targeting China's MOBA market. Read More
Baijiayun Group (NASDAQ: RTC) announced major upgrades to its AI video solution platform "DuanXunBao." The enhancements are designed to improve online learning through efficient knowledge monetization tools using new intelligent features. Read More
Silvaco Group (NASDAQ: SVCO) has formed a strategic partnership with Micon Global to enhance its presence in EMEA markets. The agreement focuses on promoting Silvaco's semiconductor design and digital twin modeling technologies. Read More
Comscore (NASDAQ: SCOR) has expanded its multi-year partnership with Gray Media, one of the largest TV station groups in the US. This includes advanced audience measurement tools providing comprehensive insights for advertisers. Read More
Actelis Networks (NASDAQ: ASNS) launched MetaShield, an AI-based cybersecurity solution in their networking products. The solution is designed to protect IoT and critical infrastructure networks with continuous monitoring and real-time protection. Read More
Enovix (NASDAQ: ENVX) has shipped second-generation EX-2M samples to mobile phone customers, achieving a 10% energy density improvement. Mass production of EX-1M products is planned for 2025, with a full launch of EX-2M in 2026. Read More
YY Group Holding (NASDAQ: YYGH) announced its subsidiary YY Smart Tech is expanding strategic partnerships to enhance its service offerings across Asia with a three-year initiative worth $5 million. Read More
SEALSQ Corp (NASDAQ: LAES) has integrated its post-quantum cryptographic chips on WISeSat satellites to secure satellite communications against quantum computing threats. Read More
Texas Instruments (TXN) secured up to $1.6 billion in CHIPS Act funding to support its semiconductor wafer fabs in Texas and Utah. The investment will create 2,000 direct jobs and support projects through 2029. Read More
Pharmaceutical and Healthcare
Eli Lilly's Zepbound (tirzepatide) has received FDA approval as the first prescription medicine for adults with moderate-to-severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and obesity. In clinical trials, patients taking Zepbound experienced 25 fewer breathing interruptions per hour and achieved up to 20% weight loss. The approval was based on the SURMOUNT-OSA phase 3 trials, where 42-50% of adults on Zepbound experienced remission or mild, non-symptomatic OSA after one year, compared to 14-16% on placebo. Patients lost an average of 45-50 pounds, significantly outperforming the placebo group's 4-6 pounds. This marks Zepbound's second FDA indication following its November 2023 approval for obesity treatment. Read More
Vertex Pharmaceuticals (NASDAQ: VRTX) has received FDA approval for ALYFTREK™, a once-daily triple combination CFTR modulator for treating cystic fibrosis in patients 6 years and older with at least one responsive mutation. The approval is based on comprehensive Phase 3 trials involving over 1,000 patients across 200+ sites in 20+ countries. ALYFTREK demonstrated non-inferiority to TRIKAFTA® on ppFEV1 and showed improved sweat chloride levels. The treatment extends to 31 additional mutations not previously responsive to other CFTR modulators, potentially benefiting approximately 150 additional CF patients in the U.S. Read More
Innovent Biologics (HKEX: 01801) has received approval for DOVBLERON (taletrectinib adipate capsule), a treatment for ROS1-positive non-small cell lung cancer, marking its 13th commercial product. Read More
Fennec Pharmaceuticals (NASDAQ: FENC) received a positive recommendation from NICE for its drug PEDMARQSI® for preventing cisplatin-induced hearing loss in England and Wales. Read More
InflaRx (NASDAQ: IFRX) has dosed its first patient in a Phase 2a study for its oral C5aR inhibitor, aiming to treat conditions including chronic spontaneous urticaria. Read More
Rhythm Pharmaceuticals (NASDAQ: RYTM) received FDA approval for expanded use of IMCIVREE® to treat children as young as 2 years with Bardet-Biedl syndrome or POMC, PCSK1, and LEPR deficiencies. Read More
Lexicon Pharmaceuticals (LXRX) has received a Complete Response Letter (CRL) from the FDA regarding its New Drug Application for Zynquista™ (sotagliflozin). The drug was intended as an adjunct to insulin therapy for glycemic control in adults with type 1 diabetes and chronic kidney disease (CKD). This decision was anticipated, aligning with Lexicon's previous strategic decision to discontinue Zynquista launch preparations and focus on its clinical development pipeline. The company is now prioritizing LX9211 for diabetic neuropathic pain, with top-line data from the PROGRESS Phase 2b study expected in Q1 2025. Read More
Merit Medical Systems (NASDAQ: MMSI) received FDA approval for its WRAPSODY Cell-Impermeable Endoprosthesis, set for US commercialization in 2025. This device aims to improve vessel patency in dialysis patients. Read More
Industrial and Infrastructure Developments
Ballard Power Systems (NASDAQ: BLDP) secured significant orders totaling over 6 MW for its zero-emission fuel cell engines for European buses. Read More
Knife River (NYSE: KNF) will acquire Strata Corporation in a deal enhancing its service territory and expects it to be accretive to earnings within the first year. Read More
LandBridge (NYSE: LB) has completed the acquisition of the Wolf Bone Ranch, expanding holdings in the Delaware Basin to enhance resource management. Read More
WOW! Internet, TV & Phone (NYSE: WOW) has launched all-fiber internet services in Brighton, Michigan, as part of its Greenfield market initiative. The service will cover 80,000 homes in Michigan. Read More
G Mining Ventures (GMINF) (NASDAQ: GMINF) completed the acquisition of CentroGold Project, including 2.3 million ounces of JORC-compliant gold resources from BHP. Read More
Horizons Aircraft (NASDAQ: HOVR) has secured an $8.4 million strategic investment to support its hybrid electric Vertical TakeOff and Landing (eVTOL) aircraft development. The funding will ensure operational stability and support the development and flight testing of its Cavorite X7 aircraft. Read More
Financial Moves and Market Impact
FS KKR Capital Corp. (NYSE: FSK) has priced a $100 million public offering of 6.125% unsecured notes due 2030. The notes will mature on January 15, 2030, with an option for early redemption at par one month before maturity or at any time with a make-whole premium. The offering is expected to close on December 27, 2024. The company plans to use the net proceeds for general corporate purposes, including potential repayment of outstanding indebtedness under credit facilities and certain notes. The offering is being managed by multiple joint book-running managers, including BofA Securities, BMO Capital Markets, J.P. Morgan Securities, KKR Capital Markets, SMBC Nikko Securities America, and Truist Securities. Read More
Rumble (NASDAQ:RUM) has secured a $775 million strategic investment from Tether ($USDT), the largest digital assets company and stablecoin provider. The transaction allocates $250 million for growth initiatives, with the remaining funds dedicated to a self tender offer for up to 70 million shares of Rumble's Class A Common Stock at $7.50 per share. Tether will purchase 103,333,333 shares at $7.50 per share. CEO Chris Pavlovski will maintain his controlling stake and has committed to tender no more than 10 million shares. The transaction, expected to close in Q1 2025, will preserve Rumble's existing board and governance structure, with Tether holding a minority position without board representation rights. Read More
ECARX (NASDAQ: ECX) announced a $20 million share repurchase program, using cash reserves to boost share value. Read More
Quantum BioPharma (NASDAQ: QNTM) diversified its treasury by investing in Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies, citing Bitcoin's increased market legitimacy. Read More
Xcel Brands (NASDAQ: XELB) reported Q3 2024 financial results with a net loss of $9.2 million, including a $6.3 million non-cash charge for contingent obligation, compared to a $5.1 million loss in Q3 2023. Total revenue decreased 28% to $1.9 million. The company's non-GAAP net loss improved by 56% to $1.3 million, while Adjusted EBITDA was negative $1.0 million, showing improvement from negative $1.4 million in the prior year quarter. Direct Operating Costs decreased by 50% to $2.8 million. The company secured a new $10 million term loan in November 2024, providing approximately $5 million in additional liquidity. Revenue decline was primarily due to the Lori Goldstein brand divestiture and hurricane-related show cancellations at their interactive TV retailer's location. Read More
Canoo Inc. (NASDAQ: GOEV) will implement a 1-for-20 reverse stock split to maintain Nasdaq trading compliance, effective December 24, 2024. Read More
BioAtla (NASDAQ: BCAB) has announced a registered direct offering to advance mid-stage clinical programs, expected to generate approximately $9.2 million. Read More
Stran & Company (NASDAQ: SWAG) has received a Staff delisting determination from Nasdaq on December 17, 2024, due to non-compliance with the Filing Rule. The company failed to file its Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q for March 31, June 30, and September 30, 2024. Despite being granted an exception until December 16, 2024, Stran did not meet compliance requirements. The delisting determination does not immediately affect trading or result in suspension. Stran can request a hearing before a Hearings Panel, which typically occurs 30-45 days after the request. A hearing request automatically stays the suspension for 15 days, with the possibility of extension through the hearing period. The company intends to request both a hearing and an extended stay. Read More
Cyngn Inc. (NASDAQ: CYN) has announced a $20.0 million follow-on offering for corporate purposes and debt repayment. Read More
Quoin Pharmaceuticals (NASDAQ: QNRX) announced a $6.8 million public offering, intended for operating expenses, R&D, and potential acquisitions. Read More
AtlasClear Holdings (NYSE American: ATCH) has announced a 1-for-60 reverse stock split of its common stock, effective December 31, 2024. The stock will begin trading on a split-adjusted basis on January 2, 2025, maintaining its 'ATCH' symbol on NYSE American with a new CUSIP number 128745 205. This decision follows stockholder approval at an October 21, 2024 special meeting, where four alternative split ratios (1-for-30, 1-for-40, 1-for-50, or 1-for-60) were approved. The board selected the 1-for-60 ratio. Each existing share will be converted into 1/60th of a share, with fractional shares rounded up to the nearest whole share. The split won't alter stockholders' equity percentage and won't change the stock's par value or authorized share count. Read More
Giftify (NASDAQ: GIFT) has announced a $5.0 million registered direct offering of common stock to individual investors. The offering is expected to close around December 26, 2024. Read More
Other Notable News
Procaps Group (NASDAQ: PROC) announced significant changes following its recent Shareholders Meeting and Board of Directors meeting. The company elected new Board members, including Alejandro Weinstein as Executive Chairman, along with Nicolas Weinstein, Ernesto Carrizosa, and Jose Frugone, while David Yanovich resigned from the Board. The company restructured its Board committees, establishing new members and chairpersons for the Audit, Compensation, M&A, and Nominating committees. A new Commercial, Innovation, and Marketing Committee was also created. In leadership updates, Patricio Vargas transitioned from CFO to Chief Optimization and Rationalization Officer, focusing on turnaround strategy and M&A initiatives. An Interim CFO was appointed to handle restatement processes and financial reporting, while Melissa Angelini was named Interim VP of Finance, overseeing corporate financial operations and investor relations. Read More
Jiayin Group (NASDAQ: JFIN), a leading fintech platform in China, has announced the signing of a definitive agreement on December 17, 2024, to acquire commercial property in Shanghai. The property spans approximately 43,500 square meters and will be purchased for a total cash consideration of approximately RMB1.35 billion. The acquisition, subject to customary closing conditions, is intended to serve as the company's new headquarters to accommodate its continuing business growth. Read More
Nyxoah SA (Euronext Brussels/Nasdaq: NYXH) received a transparency notification from BlackRock, Inc. on December 19, 2024. The notification reveals that BlackRock and its controlled undertakings now hold 1,124,630 voting rights in Nyxoah, comprising 1,122,658 shares and 1,972 equivalent financial instruments. This represents 3.00% of the total voting rights (37,427,265) as of December 17, 2024. The holdings are distributed across various BlackRock entities, with BlackRock Advisors, holding the largest portion at 2.91% of voting rights. The notification was triggered by BlackRock's total holdings crossing above the 3% threshold. Read More
Desktop Metal (NYSE: DM) has filed a lawsuit against Nano Dimension for breach of merger agreement obligations, seeking specific performance and completion of the merger. An expedited hearing is scheduled for December 30, 2024. Read More
WooCommerce has designated Affirm (AFRM) as a leading pay-over-time provider, expanding payment plan options for merchants across the U.S. and Canada. Read More
Rezolve Ai (NASDAQ: RZLV) reports key achievements for 2024, highlighting strategic partnerships with major tech companies and debt-to-equity conversions. Read More
The New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: ICE) has introduced new content offerings including pre-market updates, and highlighted key market moments of 2024 through media resources. Read More
