Financial Performances and Strategic Expansions
BlackRock (BLK) reported robust financial results for Q4 and full year 2024, with $11.6 trillion in AUM. This record is bolstered by net inflows of $641 billion, including $281 billion in Q4. The firm showed a 14% revenue increase, reaching over $20 billion, and a full-year EPS of $42.01, or $43.61 as adjusted. BlackRock's strategic expansions include acquiring HPS Investment Partners and Preqin, enhancing its private markets capabilities.
Intuitive (ISRG) reported strong preliminary Q4 and full-year 2024 results. Q4 revenue reached $2.41 billion, up 25% year-over-year, while full-year 2024 revenue grew 17% to $8.35 billion. The company placed 493 da Vinci surgical systems in Q4, marking a 19% increase from Q4 2023. Worldwide da Vinci procedures grew approximately 18% in Q4 and 17% for the full year 2024.
Orion S.A. (OEC) announced preliminary unaudited financial results for FY2024, anticipating adjusted EBITDA slightly below the guided range. Challenges included foreign exchange impacts due to a strengthening dollar, one-time costs from a workforce reduction plan, and weaker Rubber segment volumes.
Corporate Announcements and Earnings Updates
Concentrix (NASDAQ: CNXC) reported Q4 and fiscal year 2024 results, with Q4 revenue reaching $2,448.0 million, up 9.7% year-over-year. For the fiscal year, revenue grew 35.2% to $9,618.9 million. The company returned approximately $220 million to shareholders through dividends and share repurchases, while reducing debt by about $209 million.
Mobileye Global (MBLY) announced the timing for releasing its fourth quarter and full year 2024 financial results, slated for January 30th, 2025.
Hilltop Holdings (NYSE: HTH) set its fourth quarter and full year 2024 earnings conference call for January 31, 2025. Investors can access the webcast on Hilltop's Investor Relations website.
Liberty Energy (NYSE: LBRT) will release its Q4 and full year 2024 financial results on January 29, 2025, with a conference call scheduled for the following day.
Technological and Operational Developments
MicroCloud Hologram Inc. (NASDAQ: HOLO) announced a breakthrough in precise quantum computing involving quantum oscillations, integrating Quantum Fisher Information (QFI) with Hilbert-Schmidt Speed (HSS). This technology enhances parameter estimation and real-time monitoring, with significant improvements in the Quantum Fourier Transform algorithm, reducing computational errors.
ImmunityBio (NASDAQ: IBRX) has submitted marketing authorization applications for ANKTIVA® plus BCG treatment for BCG-unresponsive non-muscle invasive bladder cancer to European and UK regulatory agencies, with potential approval by 2026. The company plans further FDA submissions in 2025 for related treatments.
Incyte and Syndax Pharmaceuticals announced FDA approval of Niktimvo (axatilimab-csfr), offering a new treatment for chronic graft-versus-host disease.
Strategic Partnerships and Collaborations
AvePoint (NASDAQ: AVPT) is set to acquire Ydentic, enhancing its AI-driven cybersecurity and IT management capabilities. This acquisition should bolster AvePoint's Elements MSP Platform, enhancing security-centric revenue streams.
Azul and Abra have signed a non-binding MoU to combine their businesses in Brazil. This merger aims to strengthen the aviation sector, leveraging approximately 90% complementary routes while maintaining separate operating certificates and brands.
Major Project Developments
Black Hills Corp. (NYSE: BKH) energized the first phase of its Ready Wyoming Electric Transmission Project, which aims to bolster regional connectivity and stabilize long-term costs for customers.
Market Activity and Strategic Investments
Uranium Energy Corp (UEC) increased its holdings in Anfield Energy, now controlling approximately 17.8% ownership, signaling a strategic investment in the uranium sector.
SPAR Group (NASDAQ: SGRP) has received an Amended Commitment Letter for its merger with Highwire Capital, extending the Commitment Termination Date to February 15, 2025.
