Major Technological Developments
Universal Electronics Inc. (UEIC) announces the launch of QuickSet homeSense technology at CES, enhancing smart homes with on-device intelligence for energy management and user-specific settings.
Knowles (KN) transforms its business strategy by selling its Consumer MEMS Microphones business to Syntiant Corp, pivoting towards higher-value markets.
VEON and Starlink introduce a direct-to-cell satellite connectivity solution in Ukraine, enhancing regional digital resilience, with a planned launch in late 2025.
IonQ and Oak Ridge National Laboratory unveil a novel hybrid quantum algorithm that cuts two-qubit gates by 85% for a 28-qubit problem, showcasing advancements for energy, finance, and logistics industries.
MicroCloud Hologram (HOLO) has developed advanced quantum computing technology using a fast adiabatic driving protocol to control heavy hole spin qubits, achieving high stability and quantum state fidelities up to 99%.
Strategic Business Moves
Parsons (PSN) has been selected as part of the LINC Austin team for the $7 billion Austin Light Rail project, providing systems integration support and various management services. This significant infrastructure project aims to enhance connectivity across Austin, Texas, with 9.8 miles of new light rail lines.
Red Cat Holdings (NASDAQ: RCAT) announced the exercise of 750,000 outstanding warrants at $6.50 per share, generating gross proceeds of $4.875 million. Funds will support growth initiatives.
SuperCom (NASDAQ: SPCB) secures seven electronic monitoring contracts with South Dakota Sheriff agencies, marking its fourth new state entry since August 2024. This expansion showcases accelerating U.S. market penetration with its PureOne technology.
Casago and Vacasa (VCSA) announce a strategic merger where Casago acquires all Vacasa shares at $5.02 per share, combining brand reach with local expertise.
FTAI Aviation launches a Strategic Capital initiative, partnering with institutional investors to acquire 737NG and A320ceo aircraft, targeting over $3 billion annual capital deployment. The company provided 2025 financial guidance with Adjusted EBITDA expected to reach $1.1-1.15 billion.
Biopharmaceutical and Healthcare Advancements
Verastem Oncology (VSTM) announced FDA acceptance and Priority Review of its New Drug Application for avutometinib in combination with defactinib to treat recurrent KRAS mutant low-grade serous ovarian cancer. The FDA set a target action date of June 30, 2025.
ADC Therapeutics (ADCT) completed enrollment in LOTIS-5, a Phase 3 trial for ZYNLONTA combined with rituximab for relapsed/refractory diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. Topline results are expected by the end of 2025.
Precigen (PGEN) seeks FDA priority review for PRGN-2012, potentially fast-tracking its approval for Recurrent Respiratory Papillomatosis.
Inogen (INGN) gains FDA clearance for its SIMEOX 200 Airway Clearance Device, designed to assist patients with chronic lung diseases in bronchial drainage.
Energy Initiatives and Environmental Impact
Emeren Group (SOL) secures a significant step in its sustainable energy efforts towards achieving large-scale solar project milestones.
Williams (WMB) has fully activated the Southside Reliability Enhancement, increasing Transco's pipeline capacity in the Carolinas, just in time for peak heating season. This expands capacity by 423,400 dekatherms per day.
Sigma Lithium (SGML) has exceeded its Q4 2024 production targets, achieving 75,000 tonnes of Quintuple Zero Green Lithium and positioning itself to surpass 270,000 tonnes in 2025.
Comstock Fuels (LODE) announced an agreement with Gresham's Eastern for sustainable aviation fuel production in Pakistan, utilizing biomass refining technologies at a demonstration facility processing 75,000 metric tons annually.
Financial Updates and Market Movements
Cemtrex (CETX) reported a 13% increase in full-year revenue to $66.9 million, despite an operating loss in its FY2024 financial results.
FibroBiologics (FBLG) secured a second $5 million tranche of a $25 million Standby Equity Purchase Agreement with Yorkville Advisors, enhancing its funding runway for ongoing projects.
The Shyft Group (SHYF) appointed Scott Ocholik as Interim CFO, effective January 1, 2025, indicating continuity in financial management while searching for a permanent replacement.
Waystar Holding Corp. (WAY) strengthened its financial position by reducing borrowing costs and expanding its revolving credit facility to $400 million.
Golden Ocean Group (GOGL) continues its share buy-back program, purchasing 80,000 shares between December 20-23, 2024, as part of a USD 100 million initiative.
Transactions and Agreements
SiriusPoint (SPNT) announced an agreement to repurchase all shares held by CM Bermuda for $733 million, maintaining a strong financial ratio post-transaction.
Affinity Bancshares, Inc. (AFBI) and APCU/Center Parc Credit Union mutually terminated their purchase agreement, impacting strategic expansion plans.
Sangamo Therapeutics (SGMO) regains full rights to its hemophilia A gene therapy program after Pfizer ceased development, exploring new collaboration opportunities.
Dover (DOV) company SWEP has opened a large-scale propane testing facility, aiding developments in next-gen heat pumps and chillers using natural refrigerants.
