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OptimumBank Holdings Inc. (NYSE American: OPHC) Reports Higher Q2 Earnings as Deposits and Margins Expand

  • OptimumBank Holdings, Inc. posted Q2 2025 net earnings of $3.6 million, or $0.31 per basic share.
  • Net interest margin rose to 4.32%, reflecting improved deposit pricing and asset yields.
  • Total deposits increased by $25.93 million in the quarter, reaching $878.87 million.
  • Noninterest income rose to $1.83 million, supported by loan sales and prepayment fees.
  • Capital levels remain strong, with Tier 1 Capital to Total Assets at 11.89%.

OptimumBank Holdings (NYSE American: OPHC), a single bank holding company that owns 100% of community bank OptimumBank, headquartered in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, reported higher earnings and positive financial results for the second quarter of 2025, highlighting steady growth in deposits and improved margins.

According to the company’s latest financial update, net earnings for the quarter totaled $3.6 million, or $0.31 per basic share and $0.29 per diluted share. While this was slightly below the $3.87 million posted in the first quarter, it exceeded the $3.5 million recorded in the same period last year (https://ibn.fm/cyTyR).

For the first half of 2025, OptimumBank generated $7.47 million in earnings, an increase of $1.6 million compared with the same period in 2024. The improvement was largely driven by $3.18 million in higher net interest income and a $0.63 million boost in noninterest income.

Net interest income rose to $10.24 million in Q2, supported by stronger yields on loans and lower costs on interest-bearing liabilities. The bank’s net interest margin expanded to 4.32%, up from 4.06% in Q1. Yields on interest-earning assets increased to 6.57%, while the cost of interest-bearing liabilities declined to 3.49%.

This combination reflects management’s focus on disciplined deposit pricing and balance sheet optimization. Return on average assets came in at 1.48% for the quarter, slightly below 1.62% in the previous quarter but still consistent with strong profitability metrics for a community bank.

Deposits grew by $25.93 million in the quarter, reaching $878.87 million by June 30, 2025. Compared with the same quarter in 2024, deposits are up $116.22 million. Noninterest-bearing demand deposits also grew, reaching $259.82 million.

At the same time, the company reduced reliance on borrowings, cutting average borrowings from $32.22 million in Q1 to $2.22 million in Q2. This shift underscores the bank’s emphasis on core funding and balance sheet strength.

While overall gross loans declined by $15.68 million in the quarter, portfolio composition is shifting. Consumer and multifamily lending segments expanded, with balances growing by $7.99 million and $4.71 million respectively. These gains were offset by declines of $19.21 million in land and construction loans and $5.04 million in residential real estate lending.

The reduction was tied to loan payoffs and the resolution of a $5.6 million nonperforming loan. Management indicated that the changes create opportunities to redeploy capital into higher-yielding segments of the portfolio.

Noninterest income reached $1.83 million, a quarterly increase of $0.6 million, primarily driven by gains on sales of government-guaranteed loans and loan prepayment fees. Noninterest expenses also rose, totaling $6.18 million, reflecting higher staffing and infrastructure investments aimed at long-term scalability.

The bank’s efficiency ratio stood at 51.18%, showing continued cost discipline even as operating expenses increased. Credit quality remained solid in Q2. Credit loss expense increased to $1.04 million due to a reserve on a specific commercial loan, but net recoveries of $25,000 were recorded as charge-offs remained modest. The allowance for credit losses totaled $9.34 million, or 1.19% of total loans.

Capital levels were strong, with stockholders’ equity rising to $111.35 million and Tier 1 Capital to Total Assets at 11.89%, well above regulatory requirements.

OptimumBank reported total assets of $999 million at the end of the second quarter, just shy of the $1 billion milestone. Since quarter-end, the Bank has surpassed that threshold, underscoring its position as one of the fastest-growing community banks in South Florida. Its relationship-based business model, complemented by ongoing technology investments, continues to drive growth. Later this year, the Bank plans to launch a new open-architecture core banking platform, with API-driven features designed to streamline paperless processes, enhance onboarding, and strengthen treasury management capabilities.

Chairman Moishe Gubin emphasized the bank’s resilience despite industry headwinds. “Although overall loan balances declined this quarter due to the payoff of older, lower-yielding loans, we remain well positioned to redeploy capital into higher-return opportunities,” he said in the earnings release. “Our results demonstrate our ability to manage a growing asset base while maintaining solid credit quality and capital strength.”

For more information, visit the company’s website at OptimumBankInvestors.com.

NOTE TO INVESTORS: The latest news and updates relating to OPHC are available in the company’s newsroom at https://ibn.fm/OPHC

Vision Marine Technologies Inc. (NASDAQ: VMAR) Strengthens Electric Watercraft Position with Seabob Partnership

  • New partnership allows VMAR to “unite electric boats, toys and watersports equipment under one roof.”
  • The new EV division at Nautical Ventures focuses on offering high-performance electric water toys, with the Seabob serving as its centerpiece.
  • VMAR’s EV division’s collaboration with Nautical Ventures ensures that customers receive proper support, training and maintenance for their electric watercraft.

The electric revolution is no longer confined to cars and trucks — it’s making waves in the boating world. As demand grows for sustainable, high-performance alternatives to gas-powered watercraft, Vision Marine Technologies (NASDAQ: VMAR) is stepping forward with a bold move. The company has launched a dedicated electric vehicle (“EV”) division at Nautical Ventures, introducing the Seabob as its flagship electric water toy (https://ibn.fm/n399w). With this initiative, Vision Marine is reinforcing its leadership in the rapidly expanding electric marine market, where innovation and sustainability are becoming the new standard.

“Our vision goes far beyond propulsion,” said Vision Marine CEO and cofounder Alexandre Mongeon. “We are building a complete electric ecosystem for boaters, covering sales, service, aftersales care and on-water experiences. Through Nautical Ventures, we can unite electric boats, toys and watersports equipment under one roof. The renewed Seabob dealer agreement demonstrates the type of premium, innovative products we are bringing into this division to complement our boat offerings and deliver unmatched value to consumers and partners.”

The new EV division at Nautical Ventures focuses on offering high-performance electric water toys, with the Seabob serving as its centerpiece. Known for its speed, maneuverability and eco-friendly operation, the Seabob is a submersible watercraft that propels users through the water using an electric motor, producing no direct emissions and generating minimal noise. By partnering with Nautical Ventures, Vision Marine gains access to a wide consumer base of boating enthusiasts, enabling them to showcase the benefits of electric watercraft in real-world recreational settings. This launch represents a strategic step toward normalizing electric propulsion in recreational boating and highlights the company’s commitment to environmentally sustainable leisure products.

The broader electric marine market is experiencing significant growth. Analysts project that the global electric boat market could exceed $14 billion by 2030, driven by rising environmental awareness, regulatory incentives and consumer demand for quieter, more efficient boating options (https://ibn.fm/DiDef). Electric outboards, such as those offered by Vision Marine, provide a compelling value proposition, including lower maintenance costs due to fewer moving parts, reduced fuel expenses and the elimination of oil changes and gasoline handling. The quiet operation of electric motors also enhances the recreational experience by reducing underwater noise pollution, which benefits both marine life and passengers.

Vision Marine Technologies is taking a multipronged approach to capture this growing market. Beyond hardware innovation, the company is investing in user experience, service infrastructure and partnerships. VMAR’s EV division’s collaboration with Nautical Ventures ensures that customers receive proper support, training and maintenance for their electric watercraft. Vision Marine is also exploring additional partnerships with boat manufacturers, marinas and distributors to expand the adoption of its motors and boats across North America and eventually globally.

Founded in 2018, Vision Marine Technologies has emerged as a leading innovator in the electric marine propulsion sector. The company designs and manufactures electric outboard motors and electric boats aimed at reducing environmental impacts while delivering high-performance experiences (https://ibn.fm/vtvq8). VMAR’s flagship E-Motion 180E motor provides a fully electric alternative to traditional outboard engines, capable of delivering instantaneous torque and smooth acceleration for a variety of recreational watercraft. 

Vision Marine also produces the E-Motion 180E+ and E-Motion 300E motors, which cater to different power requirements and boat sizes. Beyond propulsion systems, Vision Marine has collaborated with Massimo Marine to introduce the first commercial electric pontoon platform, further cementing its presence in the electric boating sector. 

Sustainability is central to Vision Marine’s mission. By replacing gas-powered engines with clean electric propulsion, the company directly reduces greenhouse gas emissions and local air pollution. Its products also contribute to protecting aquatic environments by minimizing the release of oil, gasoline and other contaminants commonly associated with traditional engines. The company’s vision aligns with broader global trends toward electrification of transportation, where electrification of marine vessels is increasingly recognized as a critical step in reducing overall carbon footprints.

Looking forward, Vision Marine Technologies plans to continue expanding its product lineup and market reach. The company is focused on refining motor technology, increasing battery efficiency and exploring new electric watercraft models that can serve both recreational and commercial sectors. With the launch of its dedicated EV division and the addition of the Seabob, Vision Marine is proving that electric propulsion can offer the excitement and performance of traditional boating while aligning with modern sustainability goals. As electric marine technology continues to advance, Vision Marine Technologies is well-positioned to be a leading force in reshaping the future of recreational and professional boating.

For more information, visit www.VisionMarineTechnologies.com.

NOTE TO INVESTORS: The latest news and updates relating to VMAR are available in the company’s newsroom at https://ibn.fm/VMAR

Soligenix Inc. (NASDAQ: SNGX) Showcases Expanding Rare Disease, Public Health Pipeline in Latest Corporate Presentation

  • At its core, Soligenix is a late-stage biopharmaceutical company that thrives at the intersection of urgent medical need and scientific innovation.
  • SNGX’s Specialized BioTherapeutics division is anchored by its proprietary HyBryte(TM) (“SGX301”), a novel photodynamic therapy for CTCL.
  • Soligenix’s Public Health Solutions division positions the company as an important contributor to biodefense and emerging infectious disease.

Soligenix (NASDAQ: SNGX) has taken a bold step forward with its latest corporate presentation, offering investors and the broader biotech community a deeper look into the company’s evolving strategy and pipeline (https://ibn.fm/YGu4N). The presentation underscores Soligenix’s dual focus: pioneering therapies for rare diseases that lack adequate treatment options while simultaneously developing critical vaccines and countermeasures for emerging infectious threats and bioterrorism risks. This combination sets the company apart as both a champion for underserved patient populations and a strategic partner in global public health preparedness.

At its core, Soligenix is a late-stage biopharmaceutical company that thrives at the intersection of urgent medical need and scientific innovation. The latest presentation highlights the company’s progress across two key business segments: Specialized BioTherapeutics, which is focused on orphan diseases and dermatological conditions, and Public Health Solutions, which develops heat-stable vaccines for high-consequence pathogens. This dual-track approach is more than just diversification—it represents a deliberate strategy to address areas where human and societal stakes are high.

The Specialized BioTherapeutics division is anchored by the company’s proprietary HyBryte(TM) (“SGX301”), a novel photodynamic therapy for cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (“CTCL”). In its first phase 3 clinical trial, HyBryte produced statistically significant results, marking the first therapy of its kind to reach this stage. A second confirmatory phase 3 trial is actively enrolling to support potential worldwide marketing approvals, reinforcing the company’s commitment to bringing HyBryte to market with robust data. With the European Medicines Agency (“EMA”) already agreeing to Soligenix’s proposed regulatory package and U.S. Food and Drug Admission (“FDA”) discussions ongoing, HyBryte is positioned to potentially become the first approved therapy in its class (https://ibn.fm/gIaZ3). Its commercial potential is substantial, given that CTCL patients face limited options and a high unmet need. 

Building on this, Soligenix is also advancing SGX302 for psoriasis, a therapy that leverages the same innovative mechanism but applies it to a vastly larger market estimated at more than $27 billion globally (https://ibn.fm/EXkZF). Early clinical data have been encouraging, and the company is advancing a phase 2a study to further validate the therapy’s promise. In addition, the company is making headway with SGX945 (dusquetide), a novel innate defense regulator targeting oral ulcers in Behçet’s disease, a rare but debilitating autoimmune condition. The FDA recently granted orphan drug designation for SGX945 following positive phase 2a results, further solidifying the drug’s potential as a first-in-class treatment option for patients who currently have limited alternatives (https://ibn.fm/AgdPg).

While these rare disease programs could drive near-term commercial success, Soligenix’s Public Health Solutions division positions the company as an important contributor to public health. Here, the company is advancing RiVax(R), a ricin toxin vaccine candidate that has received both FDA orphan drug and fast track designations. Ricin remains one of the most lethal bioterror threats, and RiVax’s development to date has been heavily supported by U.S. government contracts, reflecting both its scientific merit and strategic necessity. 

Complementing RiVax are vaccine programs targeting filoviruses such as Ebola, Marburg and  COVID-19. All of these utilize Soligenix’s proprietary ThermoVax(R) technology, which enables heat-stable vaccines, an innovation that could dramatically reduce cold-chain distribution challenges in both emergency and routine immunization campaigns.

The Soligenix presentation doesn’t shy away from the broader industry context. Between 2018 and 2024, the global digital and biotech markets surged, with funding for innovative therapies and health security reaching new heights. For Soligenix, this environment provides both opportunities and challenges: Competition in the biotech space is intense, but its niche focus on rare diseases and public health solutions gives it a defensible position that few peers can claim. In fact, the company estimates the combined annual market potential for its current pipeline to be around $2 billion, underscoring the commercial upside if even a fraction of its therapies achieve regulatory approval.

What makes Soligenix particularly compelling is not just the breadth of its science but the consistency of its execution. Orphan and rare disease programs often require navigating complex regulatory frameworks and working closely with patient advocacy groups. Meanwhile, public health initiatives depend on sustained government support, long-term funding and alignment with national security priorities. The presentation makes clear that Soligenix has been able to advance on both fronts, maintaining momentum in its late-stage rare disease trials while having secured nondilutive government funding to advance its vaccine platforms.

In sum, Soligenix’s latest corporate presentation paints a portrait of a company that is steadily building value at the intersection of science, medicine and global health and security. From its innovative dermatology pipeline to its pioneering vaccines, Soligenix is moving closer to the pivotal moment when science translates into real-world solutions. For patients facing rare diseases and for societies confronting public health threats, the company’s progress offers a much-needed source of optimism, and for investors, the presentation presents a clear view of a biotech firm charting a distinct and potentially transformative path.

For more information, visit www.Soligenix.com.

NOTE TO INVESTORS: The latest news and updates relating to SNGX are available in the company’s newsroom at https://ibn.fm/SNGX

Ucore Rare Metals Inc. (TSX.V: UCU) (OTCQX: UURAF) Powers North American Rare Earth Independence with Decade-Long Greenland Supply Deal

  • The LOI sets the stage for a potential decade of supply from Critical Metals’ Tanbreez project in southern Greenland.
  • The Louisiana facility is being designed as a first-of-its-kind rare earth separation plant capable of processing both light and heavy rare earths at commercial scale.
  • The timing of this agreement is particularly significant given the surging demand for rare earths globally.

A decade-long supply agreement linking Greenland’s vast rare earth deposits with Louisiana’s growing role as a U.S. processing hub is poised to shift the balance of critical mineral independence in North America. Ucore Rare Metals (TSX.V: UCU) (OTCQX: UURAF) has signed a letter of intent (“LOI”) with Critical Metals Corp. to secure up to 10,000 metric tons of heavy rare earth concentrate annually starting in 2027, anchoring a reliable feedstock for its Department of Defense (“DoD”)–supported Louisiana facility (https://nnw.fm/MfIJW) (https://ibn.fm/Ufn3x). With Greenland’s Tanbreez Project recognized as one of the world’s largest undeveloped rare earth resources and Louisiana strategically positioned as an industrial gateway, this agreement underscores Ucore’s mission to build a fully integrated, North American supply chain for the technologies that will power the clean energy future and strengthen national security.

The newly signed nonbinding LOI sets the stage for a potential decade of supply from Critical Metals’ Tanbreez project in southern Greenland, which hosts a massive deposit of eudialyte rich in heavy rare earth elements. Under the terms of the agreement, shipments of up to 10,000 metric tons per year would begin in 2027 and extend for at least 10 years. This long-term vision is designed not only to provide stability for Ucore’s processing operations but also to offer assurance to end users across defense, clean energy and advanced manufacturing sectors that reliable, non-Chinese sources of rare earths are on the horizon.

Rare earth elements, including dysprosium and terbium contained within heavy rare earth concentrates, are indispensable to technologies such as permanent magnets used in electric vehicles, wind turbines and defense applications. Currently, more than 90% of the world’s heavy rare earth processing occurs in China (https://ibn.fm/wEUsu), leaving Western economies vulnerable to supply disruptions. By securing feedstock from Greenland and advancing its state-of-the-art Strategic Metals Complex in Alexandria, Louisiana, Ucore is taking a critical step toward reshaping the supply-demand balance and reducing dependence on foreign sources.

The Louisiana facility, which has already received significant funding commitments from the U.S. Department of Defense (https://ibn.fm/Copc5), is being designed as a first-of-its-kind rare earth separation plant capable of processing both light and heavy rare earths at commercial scale. According to Ucore, the facility will utilize its proprietary RapidSX(TM) separation technology, which has been developed and tested over the past decade as a cost-efficient and scalable alternative to traditional solvent extraction. By combining this advanced technology with a long-term feedstock arrangement from Critical Metals, Ucore is positioning Louisiana as a cornerstone of the North American rare earth supply chain.

The Tanbreez Project, held by Critical Metals Corp., is widely regarded as one of the largest untapped rare earth deposits in the world, with more than four billion tons of ore containing significant concentrations of heavy rare earths (https://ibn.fm/QOKIr). Its location in Greenland, a territory with close political and trade ties to the West, makes it a strategically attractive partner for Ucore’s mission. A steady stream of concentrate from Tanbreez would not only de-risk Ucore’s operations but also send a strong signal to end users and policymakers that alternatives to Chinese dominance in the sector are viable.

The timing of this agreement is particularly significant given the surging demand for rare earths globally. Market research forecasts suggest that demand for rare earth magnets alone could more than double by 2035, driven primarily by the rapid adoption of electric vehicles and renewable energy systems (https://ibn.fm/V1FOw). Without new sources of heavy rare earth supply, the West risks a supply shortfall that could derail ambitious clean energy transition goals and compromise the production of critical defense technologies. Ucore’s LOI with Critical Metals represents a proactive response to these challenges, bringing certainty and visibility to a sector that has long been marked by volatility and geopolitical risk.

While Ucore’s LOI with Critical Metals is currently non-binding, it lays the groundwork for a definitive supply agreement that would give the company a durable competitive advantage in the global rare earth race. The company continues to advance engineering and financing for its Louisiana facility, with construction targeted to align with the anticipated start of feedstock deliveries in 2027. With support from both the private sector and the U.S. government, Ucore’s vision is rapidly taking shape as one of the most ambitious efforts to date to secure domestic rare earth independence.

From Greenland’s resource-rich Tanbreez deposit to Louisiana’s cutting-edge processing hub, Ucore is stitching together the pieces of a supply chain that could alter the trajectory of rare earth independence in North America. By securing a potential decade of feedstock through the agreement, the company is not only addressing the immediate needs of its Pentagon-backed facility but is also charting a course toward long-term resilience in one of the world’s most strategically important markets. In doing so, Ucore underscores its commitment to building a rare earth future that is not only technologically advanced but also geopolitically secure, ensuring that North America can compete and thrive in the global clean energy and defense landscapes.

For more information, visit www.Ucore.com.

NOTE TO INVESTORS: The latest news and updates relating to UURAF are available in the company’s newsroom at https://ibn.fm/UURAF

ONAR Holding Corp. (ONAR) Announces Q2 Financial Results and Strategic Updates

  • ONAR Holding Corp. recently announced its revenue growth, financial performance, and updates on its capital strategy
  • The announcement states strategic and corporate adjustments, including adding several new members to the board
  • The company provided updates about Cortex, its proprietary marketing intelligence system, and a recent acquisition the company made to enhance the capabilities of Cortex

ONAR Holding Corp. (OTCQB: ONAR), a technology-first network of marketing companies, recently announced its Q2 results for 2025. The company announced that revenue grew 28% compared to Q2 last year, which reflects the growth and adoption the company has experienced lately.

However, despite this growth, the company reported a net loss overall. Much of the loss was driven by a few non-operating expenses like stock-based compensation, public company compliance costs, and others. 

These are important requirements for the company, and it stated that as it acquires more companies and expands its revenue base, these costs will eventually represent a smaller amount of total expenses.

ONAR repaid nearly $300,000 in principal and converted around $142,000 of debt into equity. The company also announced it has started the process of closing its Series E financing round, which showcases the growing investor interest in the platform.

The announcement mentioned strategic changes. Chief among them is the appointment of former MDC Partners Chairman and CEO Scott Kauffman as Chairman of the Board (ibn.fm/p951P).

It mentions adding Mark Gazit and Reda Raad as independent directors, as well as referencing past appointments of Jon Bond, former founder of Kirshbaum & Bond and CEO of White Ops, and Howard Palefsky, who has led multiple companies to billions of dollars in exits. These experts bring decades of technology and marketing experience to the organization.

ONAR highlights the progress made on the technology side. In particular, the company has advanced the roadmap for Cortex, which already serves as the foundation for performance marketing, media planning and data analysis across ONAR’s agency network. By integrating multiagent architecture into Cortex, ONAR intends to redefine how marketing services are delivered, emphasizing speed, efficiency and intelligent automation without sacrificing creative and strategic depth.

Not only did it partner with IQSTEL’s Reality Border division to co-develop an AI operating platform that will act as the foundation of Cortex but it also acquired customer intelligence platform Retina.ai. Both help boost the potential scope of Cortex and its capabilities.

The announcement ends with a statement that each of these achievements builds on the company vision to create an AI-powered marketing network that changes how brands can scale.

ONAR acquires best-in-class marketing agencies to service middle-market and growth stage companies by leveraging proprietary AI & technology.

For more information, visit the company’s website at www.ONAR.com.

NOTE TO INVESTORS: The latest news and updates relating to ONAR are available in the company’s newsroom at https://ibn.fm/ONAR

SEGG Media Corp. (NASDAQ: SEGG) Champions Motorsport Diversity with Racing Women Training Camp

  • SEGG Media recently announced the resounding success of its inaugural Racing Women Training Camp, powered by Sports.com
  • The initiative was organized in partnership with Racing Women LLC, founded by Graeme Glew, who described the event as a breakthrough moment
  • For the company, the camp aligned with a broader strategy to leverage sports and entertainment platforms to generate sustainable shareholder value

The world of motorsport has long been defined by speed, skill and spectacle, but for decades, it has also struggled with inclusivity. SEGG Media (NASDAQ: SEGG, LTRYW), a leader in sports, entertainment and gaming, is taking bold steps to help change that narrative. The company recently announced the resounding success of its inaugural Racing Women Training Camp, powered by Sports.com, marking a significant milestone in both the company’s growth strategy and the broader movement to expand opportunities for women in motorsport (ibn.fm/6VLvi).

The camp, held last month, brought together eight women from the United States, the United Kingdom, Hungary, Dubai and Qatar for four days of training and development across some of the most iconic racing venues in England. These aspiring drivers immersed themselves in a comprehensive program designed to hone both their physical performance and mental resilience, receiving mentorship from respected figures in the racing community. The initiative, which combined technical training, competitive racing and motivational workshops, highlighted SEGG Media’s vision for using sports as a platform for empowerment, innovation and long-term brand growth.

Throughout the program, participants received world-class instruction. At the Silverstone iZone Performance Center, the women received driver training using state-of-the-art simulation technology guided by Marcus Littlewood and Ian Aguilera. They also competed at Daytona Motorsport, where three participants — Lena Galyo, Ella Davies and Roshni Dudhiya — secured podium finishes, underscoring the potential that exists when talented women drivers are given proper opportunities and resources. The camp culminated at Donington Park, where Radical Motorsport provided high-speed factory passenger experiences that allowed participants to feel the power of competitive racing firsthand.

The initiative was organized in partnership with Racing Women LLC, founded by Graeme Glew, who described the event as a breakthrough moment. “These women came from all over the world, and they all went away with big smiles,” Glew noted, emphasizing the excitement and camaraderie fostered through the program. His comments underscored the event’s dual impact: Creating memorable experiences for participants while also signaling to the motorsport world that female drivers are ready to compete at elite levels.

For SEGG Media, the camp represented more than a one-off event. It is aligned with a broader strategy to leverage sports and entertainment platforms to generate sustainable shareholder value. As SEGG Media chair and CEO Matthew McGahan explained, programs like the Racing Women Training Camp do more than create opportunities for young athletes; they also build brand exposure, open doors for long-term sponsorships and reinforce SEGG Media’s commitment to inclusive, ethical engagement in global sports.

The timing of the initiative was also strategic. SEGG Media has been expanding its presence across the motorsport landscape, with executives attending the Daytona 500 as guests of NASCAR and sponsoring three drivers at the historic Milwaukee Mile. These efforts reflect the company’s ambition to deepen its footprint in competitive racing, with potential entry into the 2026 NASCAR season under active consideration. The Racing Women Training Camp adds another dimension to these efforts, combining commercial strategy with social impact by championing diversity in a historically male-dominated sport.

SEGG Media’s portfolio extends well beyond motorsport (ibn.fm/3Fsea). Through its flagship platform Sports.com, the company is building a hub for immersive fan engagement and digital storytelling. SEGG Media also operates Concerts.com, which expands its reach into the live entertainment sector, and maintains an interest in the gaming and lottery spaces through partnerships and Lottery.com brand initiatives. By bringing these properties under one umbrella, SEGG Media aims to redefine how audiences interact with sports and entertainment content in the digital age. 

What makes SEGG Media’s approach distinctive is its ability to combine commercial opportunity with cultural relevance. By launching programs such as the Racing Women Training Camp, the company is not only creating value for shareholders but also contributing to broader social conversations about diversity, representation and opportunity in sports. This dual impact helps SEGG Media position as a company that can thrive financially while also cultivating good will and recognition among fans, athletes and partners worldwide.

Looking ahead, SEGG Media has signaled its intent to continue expanding its involvement in sports and entertainment properties that offer both financial growth and cultural resonance. With the successful completion of its inaugural Racing Women Training Camp, the company has demonstrated its capacity to execute complex, meaningful initiatives while building momentum for its broader portfolio. 

For more information, visit the company’s website at SEGGMediaCorp.com.

NOTE TO INVESTORS: The latest news and updates relating to SEGG are available in the company’s newsroom at https://ibn.fm/SEGG

Nutriband Inc. (NASDAQ: NTRB) CEO Showcases AVERSA(TM) Abuse Deterrent Transdermal Technology at Emerging Growth Conference

  • Nutriband sustains itself through multiple revenue-generating subsidiaries
  • At the core of the company’s innovation is the AVERSA(TM) platform, a proprietary abuse-deterrent transdermal technology
  • AVERSA(TM) fentanyl is projected to achieve peak annual sales of $200 million upon FDA approval, with upside potential exceeding $800 million

The opioid crisis continues to highlight the urgent need for safer, more secure drug delivery methods, and Nutriband (NASDAQ: NTRB) is positioning itself as a company with a solution. At the August 2025 Emerging Growth Conference, Nutriband founder and president Serguei Melnik detailed the company’s lead product, AVERSA(TM), an abuse-deterrent transdermal technology that integrates aversive agents to prevent misuse, abuse and accidental exposure of drugs with high abuse potential, particularly opioids (ibn.fm/1qrav). With AVERSA(TM), Nutriband is aiming to transform traditional transdermal patches into safer tools for patients who require powerful pain relief, while simultaneously reducing the risks that have fueled a national epidemic.

Melnik opened his presentation by highlighting the company’s origins and growth trajectory since its founding in 2016. Nutriband, which completed its IPO in 2021, is structured differently from many biotechnology companies. Instead of relying solely on investor capital while burning through development costs, Nutriband sustains itself through multiple revenue-generating subsidiaries. These include 4P Therapeutics, a clinical consulting and regulatory program arm; Pocono Pharmaceuticals, which provides contract manufacturing services; and Active Intelligence, a sports recovery and kinesiology tape business. Together, these subsidiaries generate revenue that offsets the company’s development costs and reduces its reliance on dilutive fundraising.

At the core of Nutriband’s innovation is the AVERSA™ platform, a proprietary abuse-deterrent transdermal technology. Melnik explained that AVERSA(TM) can be applied to any existing transdermal patch, but the company’s lead candidate is an abuse-deterrent fentanyl patch. The technology is designed to interfere with the primary methods of opioid patch misuse, including chewing, snorting, brewing into tea or extracting the drug for alternative consumption. When an attempt is made to tamper with the AVERSA(TM) patch, the aversive agents are activated, rendering the opioid unusable and reducing the likelihood of abuse. Melnik emphasized that the deterrent components do not interfere with the drug’s therapeutic effect during normal prescribed use.

The need for this innovation is significant. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 80,000 opioid overdose deaths were recorded in 2024, a crisis that has continued into subsequent years (ibn.fm/POBas). Fentanyl patches, though vital for many patients with severe chronic pain, remain especially vulnerable to diversion and misuse. Melnik cited data showing that 70% of fentanyl patch abusers ingest the drug orally, making oral deterrence mechanisms a crucial feature of the AVERSA(TM) technology.

He also noted the tragic instances of accidental exposure, including 32 recorded cases resulting in 12 deaths, often among young children. By addressing both intentional misuse and accidental harm, Nutriband’s AVERSA(TM) aims to significantly improve the safety profile of opioid patches.

The commercial potential is substantial. Based on third-party assessments, AVERSA(TM) fentanyl is projected to achieve peak annual sales of $200 million upon U.S. Food and Drug Administration (“FDA”) approval, with upside potential exceeding $800 million if the FDA were to mandate abuse-deterrent formulations for all fentanyl patches, like its requirement for oxycodone in prior years. In June 2025, Nutriband announced that it had completed commercial-scale manufacturing of AVERSA(TM) in partnership with Kindeva, a leading global contract development and manufacturing organization specializing in transdermal systems (ibn.fm/00DvY). The company is preparing to manufacture clinical supplies and file an Investigational New Drug (“IND”) application with the FDA to initiate human abuse liability studies, the pivotal trial required before formal FDA submission.

Melnik noted that the company expects the pivotal phase 1 study, which compares AVERSA(TM) Fentanyl against conventional patches, to demonstrate the technology’s ability to resist tampering and misuse. Following that study, Nutriband plans to submit its application to the FDA within the next 12 months, targeting potential approval in late 2026 or early 2027. Meanwhile, Nutriband has secured patents protecting AVERSA(TM) in 47 countries, including recent approvals in China, Hong Kong and Macau, strengthening its global commercialization prospects.

Beyond fentanyl, Nutriband is also developing AVERSA formulations for buprenorphine and methylphenidate patches, extending the platform into additional therapeutic areas where transdermal delivery intersects with drugs prone to abuse. Melnik emphasized that AVERSA(TM) is not limited to one product but represents a scalable platform technology that can be applied across multiple classes of drugs.

Finally, Melnik contrasted Nutriband’s approach with the traditional biotech model. He highlighted that Nutriband has not returned to public markets for dilutive capital raises since its IPO in 2021, thanks in part to revenue streams from its subsidiaries and disciplined financial management. This structure, he noted, enables the company to pursue innovation in abuse-deterrent technology while protecting shareholder value.

Nutriband’s AVERSA(TM) represents a novel attempt to combine patient access to effective pain management with enhanced safety for the public at large. If successful, the technology could reshape not only the transdermal market but also the broader landscape of opioid safety, aligning with Nutriband’s stated mission of developing science-based, values-driven innovations that improve patient lives while addressing urgent public health challenges.

For more information, visit the company’s website at www.Nutriband.com.

NOTE TO INVESTORS: The latest news and updates relating to NTRB are available in the company’s newsroom at https://ibn.fm/NTRB

D-Wave Quantum Inc. (NYSE: QBTS) Releases New Tools to Advance Quantum AI Innovation and Exploration

  • D-Wave recently introduced an open-source quantum AI toolkit that enables developers to seamlessly integrate D-Wave quantum computers into modern ML architectures.
  • Part of D-Wave’s Ocean software suite, the quantum AI toolkit provides direct integration between D-Wave’s quantum computers and PyTorch, an ML framework used to create and train deep learning models.
  • New demo shows developers how to experiment with using D-Wave quantum processors to generate simple images.

D-Wave Quantum Inc. (NYSE: QBTS) (“D-Wave” or the “Company”), a leader in quantum computing systems, software, and services, recently released a collection of offerings to help developers explore and advance quantum artificial intelligence (“AI”) and machine learning (“ML”) innovation, including an open-source quantum AI toolkit and a demo. Available now for download, the quantum AI toolkit enables developers to seamlessly integrate quantum computers into modern ML architectures. The demo shows how developers can use the toolkit to experiment with using D-Wave(TM) quantum processors to generate simple images, reflecting what D-Wave believes is a pivotal step in the development of quantum AI capabilities. By releasing this new set of tools, D-Wave aims to help organizations accelerate the use of annealing quantum computers in a growing set of AI applications.

The quantum AI toolkit, part of D-Wave’s Ocean(TM) software suite, provides direct integration between D-Wave’s quantum computers and PyTorch, an ML framework widely used to train and create deep learning models. The toolkit includes a PyTorch neural network module for using a quantum computer to build and train ML models known as a restricted Boltzmann machine (“RBM”). Used to learn patterns and connections from complex data sets, RBMs are employed for generative AI tasks such as image recognition and drug discovery. Training RBMs with large datasets can be a computationally complex and time-consuming task that could be well-suited for a quantum computer. By integrating with PyTorch, D-Wave’s new toolkit aims to make it easy for developers to experiment with quantum computing to address computational challenges in training AI models.

“With this new toolkit and demo, D-Wave is enabling developers to build architectures that integrate our annealing quantum processors into a growing set of ML models,” said Dr. Trevor Lanting, chief development officer at D-Wave. “Customers are increasingly asking us for ways to facilitate the exploration of quantum and AI, recognizing the collaborative potential of these two complementary technologies.”

D-Wave continues to advance its quantum AI product roadmap, delivering new solutions to customers while expanding development efforts. The company is working with a growing number of customers on exploratory quantum AI projects. For example, D-Wave has completed a joint proof-of-concept project with the pharmaceutical division of Japan Tobacco Inc. that used D-Wave’s quantum computing technology and AI in the drug discovery process. The quantum proof-of-concept outperformed classical methods for AI model training in drug discovery. Researchers at the Jülich Supercomputing Centre at Forschungszentrum Jülich also used D-Wave’s quantum technology to create an ML tool that predicts protein-DNA binding with greater accuracy than traditional methods using classical computers. The team integrated quantum computing with support vector machines to achieve improved results in various metrics, significantly enhancing classification performance. TRIUMF, Canada’s particle accelerator center, and its partner institutions, also published a paper showing significant speedups using D-Wave’s quantum computers over classical approaches for simulating high-energy particle-calorimeter interactions—potentially leading to major efficiencies where the AI model is used to create synthetic data.

Companies looking to explore the integration of quantum computing into AI workloads can apply to the Leap Quantum LaunchPad(TM) program.

NOTE TO INVESTORS: The latest news and updates relating to QBTS are available in the company’s newsroom at https://ibn.fm/QBTS

About D-Wave Quantum Inc.

D-Wave is a leader in the development and delivery of quantum computing systems, software, and services. We are the world’s first commercial supplier of quantum computers, and the only company building both annealing and gate-model quantum computers. Our mission is to help customers realize the value of quantum, today. Our quantum computers — the world’s largest — feature QPUs with sub-second response times and can be deployed on-premises or accessed through our quantum cloud service, which offers 99.9% availability and uptime. More than 100 organizations trust D-Wave with their toughest computational challenges. With over 200 million problems submitted to our quantum systems to date, our customers apply our technology to address use cases spanning optimization, artificial intelligence, research and more. Learn more about realizing the value of quantum computing today and how we’re shaping the quantum-driven industrial and societal advancements of tomorrow: www.dwavequantum.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements in this press release are forward-looking, as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements involve risks, uncertainties, and other factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from the information expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements and may not be indicative of future results. These forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, including, among others, various factors beyond management’s control, including the risks set forth under the heading “Risk Factors” discussed under the caption “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in Part I of our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K or any updates discussed under the caption “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in Part II of our Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and in our other filings with the SEC. Undue reliance should not be placed on the forward-looking statements in this press release in making an investment decision, which are based on information available to us on the date hereof. We undertake no duty to update this information unless required by law.

Izotropic Corporation (CSE: IZO) (OTCQB: IZOZF): Advancing Dedicated Breast Imaging at a Market Crossroads

  • IzoView Breast CT designed as the first breast-dedicated CT imaging system to eliminate tissue overlap and compression limitations specifically for breast cancer screening in patients with dense breast tissue
  • Platform model supports multiple future clinical applications, including diagnosis and treatment planning without hardware replacement
  • Regulatory pathway alignment and commercialization planning position Izotropic for potential market entry into a $8.7B global breast imaging sector

Imaging’s Stagnation Meets a New Wave of Purpose-Built Devices

For decades, breast cancer screening has relied heavily on mammography, a compression-based modality that, while valuable, carries persistent shortcomings. Dense breast tissue, which affects nearly half of women, often obscures lesions, leading to missed cancers or unnecessary callbacks. These limitations have fueled billions in annual healthcare costs tied to follow-up imaging and inconclusive results.

Against this backdrop, medical imaging technology has reached an inflection point. Artificial intelligence, high-resolution computational imaging, and patient-centered design are converging to open new possibilities. Dedicated systems built specifically for breast applications, rather than adapted from general diagnostic tools, are emerging to close critical gaps in cancer detection.

Izotropic (CSE: IZO) (OTCQB: IZOZF) is at the forefront of this transformation with its flagship IzoView Breast CT Imaging System, a technology designed to reimagine breast imaging from the ground up.

Purpose-Built to Overcome Structural Barriers

IzoView departs from legacy 2D imaging by offering true 360-degree, three-dimensional visualization of the breast without compression. The architecture eliminates the masking effect caused by overlapping tissue, a problem particularly acute in dense breasts, while delivering spatial resolution orders of magnitude higher than MRI at a fraction of the cost.

The device has been engineered with workflow and patient experience in mind. A ten-second scan provides comprehensive imaging, compared with MRI procedures that can last more than an hour. Radiation levels are comparable to standard two-view mammography, further supporting patient safety and clinical acceptance.

By specifically addressing structural barriers inherent to mammography and partial-angle 3D modalities, IzoView represents a dedicated, single-modality solution capable of consolidating diagnostic steps that often stretch across mammography, ultrasound, and MRI.

Scalable Value Through a Platform Approach

A distinguishing feature of Izotropic’s design philosophy is its platform-based model. Instead of serving as a static piece of equipment, IzoView is built for expansion through software upgrades, not hardware replacement.

The company has identified at least 14 future clinical applications that can be supported by the system, ranging from screening and diagnosis to treatment planning and monitoring. This flexibility allows healthcare providers to expand capabilities over time while maximizing return on investment, a key factor in technological adoption in cost-conscious hospital systems.

Additionally, IzoView integrates self-shielding radiation containment, removing the need for specialized facility retrofits. This design choice lowers installation barriers and broadens accessibility across a wider range of imaging centers.

Market and Regulatory Positioning

The breast imaging device market is projected to grow from $5.4 billion in 2024 to $8.7 billion by 2030, reflecting increasing demand for precision diagnostic tools and advanced modalities. Within this market, demand is particularly strong in dense breast imaging, a segment where IzoView directly addresses existing limitations.

Izotropic has achieved alignment with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration on its regulatory pathway, a milestone that reduces uncertainty around clinical trial design and eventual approval requirements. The company has also completed a detailed strategic business plan and commercialization roadmap, underscoring preparation for entry into U.S. and international markets.

To complement regulatory progress, Izotropic has invested in awareness-building initiatives, including the dedicated BreastCT.com platform and a podcast series designed to educate clinicians, patients, and investors about the advantages of breast-dedicated CT imaging.

Positioned for Transformation

Izotropic’s strategy combines technical differentiation, competitive economics, and scalable growth potential in a market urgently seeking better solutions. By addressing the shortcomings of mammography, ultrasound, and MRI with a purpose-built system, the company is positioned to compete not only on performance but also on workflow efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

If successful, IzoView could mark a turning point in breast cancer detection, one that shifts the paradigm toward faster, more accurate, and more accessible imaging. For healthcare systems under pressure to deliver better outcomes while controlling costs, such a solution could represent both a clinical and economic breakthrough.

For more information, visit the company’s website at www.IzoCorp.com.

NOTE TO INVESTORS: The latest news and updates relating to IZOZF are available in the company’s newsroom at ibn.fm/IZOZF

Platinum Group Metals Ltd. (NYSE American: PLG) (TSX: PTM) Seizes Opportunities amid Rising Global Platinum Jewelry Demand

  • The global demand for platinum jewelry is experiencing a notable resurgence, with China leading the charge.
  • Forecasts indicate that total platinum supply in 2025 will be the lowest in five years.
  • Platinum Group Metals is strategically advancing its Waterberg Project, a bulk underground platinum, palladium, rhodium and gold deposit located in South Africa.

In 2025, platinum is experiencing a renaissance in the global jewelry market, driven by a surge in consumer interest, particularly in China (https://ibn.fm/GWs1J). This uptick in demand is not only revitalizing the jewelry sector but is also influencing the broader platinum market, affecting supply dynamics and pricing. Platinum Group Metals (NYSE American: PLG) (TSX: PTM) is strategically positioned to capitalize on this resurgence. The company is advancing its Waterberg Project in South Africa, a significant platinum group metals (“PGM”) deposit, and exploring new technologies to enhance the utilization of PGMs in various applications (https://ibn.fm/HcEEm).

The global demand for platinum jewelry is experiencing a notable resurgence, with China leading the charge. In the first quarter of 2025, Chinese platinum jewelry fabrication rose by 26% year-on-year, supported by platinum’s discount relative to gold prices. This trend is expected to continue, with global platinum jewelry demand projected to increase by 5% to 2.1 million ounces in 2025. This revival is attributed to several factors, including platinum’s relative affordability compared to gold and its appeal as a durable and hypoallergenic material.

The resurgence in platinum jewelry demand is contributing to a tightening global supply (https://ibn.fm/6izBw). Forecasts indicate that total platinum supply in 2025 will be the lowest in five years, declining by 4% to 6,999 thousand ounces. This supply deficit is further exacerbated by resilient automotive demand and robust investment interest, particularly in China. In April 2025, China recorded platinum imports of 6.2 tonnes, the highest monthly volume since March 2024, indicating strengthening interest from both industrial users and investors.

Platinum Group Metals is strategically advancing its Waterberg Project, a bulk underground platinum, palladium, rhodium and gold deposit located in South Africa. The project is notable for its shallow nature, facilitating fully mechanized production with the potential to have among the lowest operating costs in the PGM sector. The company is also exploring the establishment of a standalone PGM smelter and base metal refinery, in collaboration with Ajlan and the Ministry of Investment of Saudi Arabia, as part of a global supply chain resilience initiative (https://ibn.fm/iHq4b).

In addition to its mining endeavors, Platinum Group Metals Ltd. is focused on developing new technologies that leverage the unique properties of PGMs. The company has entered into a partnership with Valterra Platinum to accelerate the development of next-generation battery technology using platinum and palladium (https://ibn.fm/pnEFl). This initiative aligns with the growing interest in sustainable energy solutions and positions the company at the forefront of innovation in the PGM sector.

As the global demand for platinum continues to rise, Platinum Group Metals is well positioned to capitalize on these market dynamics. Through strategic advancements in mining operations and technological innovations, the company aims to help meet the increasing demand for platinum and contribute to the development of sustainable applications for PGMs.

For more information, visit www.PlatinumGroupMetals.net.

NOTE TO INVESTORS: The latest news and updates relating to PLG are available in the company’s newsroom at https://ibn.fm/PLG

From Our Blog

Lahontan Gold Corp. (TSX.V: LG) (OTCQB: LGCXF) CEO Kimberly Ann Shares Major Company Updates and Outlines Growth on the Prospector News Podcast

November 5, 2025

This article has been disseminated on behalf of  Lahontan Gold Corp. (TSX.V: LG) (OTCQB: LGCXF) and may include paid advertising. Recently, Kimberly Ann, the CEO of Lahontan Gold (TSX.V: LG) (OTCQB: LGCXF), a Canadian mineral exploration company advancing four high-quality gold and silver properties in Nevada’s prolific Walker Lane trend, appeared on The Prospector News podcast […]

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