Crypto and Digital Technology
HIVE Digital Technologies (HIVE) has achieved a significant milestone by reaching 6.0 Exahashes per second of operational hashrate capacity, representing a 47% year-over-year growth. This was made possible through the integration of advanced Avalon machines from Canaan Inc. HIVE’s strategic energy pricing in Sweden and ongoing expansion in Paraguay signal robust growth aspirations.
Bitfarms (BITF) reported significant advancements in December 2024, increasing its hashrate by 97% to 12.8 EH/s and improving its efficiency by 40%. The company aims to enhance its footprint through the anticipated acquisition of Stronghold Digital Mining by Q1 2025.
Automotive and Technology Innovations
Cerence Inc. (CRNC) announced a multi-year partnership with JLR to develop the luxury automaker's next-generation in-car experience. The focus is on voice and AI technology, enhancing safety and productivity. This move aims to elevate JLR's infotainment systems, ensuring a premier driving experience.
SoundHound AI (NASDAQ: SOUN) and Lucid Motors have launched the Lucid Assistant, a voice assistant powered by SoundHound Chat AI, enabling natural voice control of vehicle functions and providing real-time information. It supports multiple languages and will evolve through over-the-air updates.
BlackBerry (BB) announced the rebranding of its 'BlackBerry IoT' division to 'QNX', enhancing its position in automotive and embedded industries. QNX technology is integrated into more than 255 million vehicles and various critical systems.
Aerospace and Defense
ZenaTech (ZENA) has signed a lease for a Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) drone testing facility in Turkey. The project will cater to the ZenaDrone 1000, with applications intended for US Defense and NATO, emphasizing readiness for FAA licensing applications and autonomous drone operations.
Financial Services and Corporate Moves
Palomar Holdings (NASDAQ: PLMR) has completed the acquisition of First Indemnity of America Insurance Company (FIA), marking its strategic entry into the Surety market, expected to enhance its specialty insurance portfolio.
PMGC Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ: ELAB) has divested its skincare subsidiary, Elevai Skincare, securing approximately $1.1 million in Carmell stock and a 5% royalty, allowing the company to focus on transformative acquisitions.
BJ's Restaurants (NASDAQ: BJRI) announced a cooperation agreement with Act III Holdings, garnering strategic support for growth from Ronald M. Shaich, founder of Panera Bread Company.
Energy and Mining
Hudbay Minerals (TSX, NYSE: HBM) received the final Air Quality Permit for its Copper World project, projected to produce 85,000 tonnes of copper annually over 20 years. The project marks a $1.7 billion capital investment, becoming the third largest cathode producer in the U.S.
Drilling Tools International Corp. (NASDAQ: DTI) has completed its acquisition of Titan Tools Services, enhancing its capabilities in the North Sea and Europe.
Regulatory and Corporate Actions
Ault & Company has abandoned its cash tender offer for Hyperscale Data's shares, opting for a securities purchase agreement to acquire up to $25 million in preferred stock, consolidating its influence with 91.7% ownership of outstanding stock.
Trust Stamp (IDAI) announced a 1-for-15 reverse stock split to comply with Nasdaq Rule 5550(a)(2), aiming to attract institutional investors by increasing its share price.
Quanterix (NASDAQ:QTRX) is under investigation for potential securities claims by Rosen Law Firm, following statements of unreliability in its financial reporting, affecting stock prices.
Innovations and Developments
SPS Commerce (NASDAQ: SPSC) announced the acquisition of Carbon6 Technologies for $210 million, broadening their software tools for e-commerce sellers and strengthening revenue recovery solutions.
MicroAlgo Inc. (NASDAQ: MLGO) developed a hybrid classical-quantum algorithm optimizing Multi-Query Optimization problems, achieving nearly 99% qubit efficiency, advancing data applications.
Pharmaceuticals and Biotech
Capricor Therapeutics (NASDAQ: CAPR) has completed its Biologics License Application (BLA) submission to the FDA for deramiocel, seeking full approval for treating Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) cardiomyopathy. The submission triggers a $10 million milestone payment from Nippon Shinyaku.
Radius Pharmaceuticals announced a licensing agreement with Pharmanovia for the commercialization of abaloparatide in key Asia Pacific markets, including China. Under the deal, Radius will receive an upfront payment and tiered royalties.
Miscellaneous Updates
ScanTech AI Systems Inc. has completed its merger with Mars Acquisition Corp, and will now trade on Nasdaq, boosting its capabilities in CT screening technology.
Callaway Golf's Elyte clubs, using advanced golf technology for enhanced performance, aim to strengthen the company's market position. Expion360 announced a $2.6 million raise through registered direct and private placements, furthering their lithium-ion solutions.
