• Canada-based strategic metals innovator Ucore Rare Metals Inc. recently received word that the Canadian government will provide $4.28 million in non-dilutive, non-repayable funding to the company’s ongoing rare earth element (“REE”) separation technology development
• REEs are critical to the production of permanent magnets used in computerized technologies ranging from cell phones to national interests such as renewable energy infrastructure and military defense machinery
• China currently dominates the global market for mining, processing, and product creation for REEs, which underscores Western governments’ interests in developing an independent supply chain for REEs
• Canada’s award will help fund demonstration of Ucore’s RapidSX(TM) capabilities in head-to-head comparisons with the industry-standard CSX separation process for light REEs
• A similar $4 million award from the U.S. government is supporting the demonstration of RapidSX(TM) capabilities for separating heavy REEs, leading up to construction of a commercial facility for separating REEs in Louisiana

A modern-day type of “arms race” focused on computer magnet technology instead of military weaponry is leading Western governments to work with private companies on the development of their own supply chains for the magnets’ components.

Strategic metals innovator Ucore Rare Metals (TSX.V: UCU) (OTCQX: UURAF) is celebrating news that the Canadian government will add more than $4 million in non-repayable, non-dilutive funding to a $4 million award the company received from the U.S. government during the summer to demonstrate the effectiveness of Ucore’s trademarked rare earth separation technology.

The $4.28 million award from Canada will help Ucore showcase the capability of its RapidSX(TM) solution for separating light rare earth elements (“REEs”) — specifically praseodymium (Pr), neodymium (Nd), and a praseodymium|neodymium compound (NdPr) — while the U.S. grant is focused on heavy REE magnet materials terbium (Tb) and dysprosium (Dy), according to the Nov. 20 news release (https://ibn.fm/22sfX).

REEs are critical to the makeup of permanent magnets, which are used throughout the infrastructure of renewable energy — in wind turbines and electric vehicle motors, for example. They also are used in military applications such as missile guidance systems, and Ucore Chairman-CEO Pat Ryan recently noted that 920 pounds of rare earths are used in an F-35 fighter.

“China’s recent announcements of increased scrutiny over the export of rare earth elements have raised concerns regarding the ongoing availability of these critical materials. The development of an alternative North American rare earth supply chain is more important than ever as the world moves toward the electrification of its vehicle fleet and other green initiatives,” Ryan stated in the November news release.

That’s in large part because The People’s Republic of China controls the varied aspects of rare earth extraction, production and use in computerized products.

“The challenge is that 60 percent of rare earth resources are in China, but 87 percent of separation to the  ‘critical seeds of technology’, as the Japanese call them — they are controlled by China,” Ryan said during Red Cloud Financial Services’ Fall Mining Showcase this month in Toronto (https://ibn.fm/RGxrl). “That means they’re reaching outside of China now and bringing material back into China for processing, and turning them into final products. And the final products — the rare earth permanent magnets — they’re 90 percent-plus of the global market. So they’ve really got a tight grip.”

Ucore aims to use RapidSX(TM) as a linchpin for re-establishing an REE supply chain in the Americas. The demonstration projects are taking place in Ontario and will lead to the use of RapidSX(TM) commercially once construction is completed at a processing plant — named a Strategic Metals Complex (“SMC”) — in Louisiana. Commissioning is expected at the end of next year there, with it becoming operational in early 2025.

The U.S. government’s funding award includes an additional $10 million to help launch the Louisiana operation, along with $15 million in incentives provided by Louisiana’s state government, according to Ryan.

“We made a number of trips to the White House, to the Pentagon, we talked about our tech,” Ryan said at the Toronto event. “We met with science people and they love what we’re doing.”

The company expects to build a second SMC commercial plant in Canada after completing startup work at the facility in Louisiana, and its long-term outlook includes potential development of an REE mining project in Alaska where the company owns a 100 percent interest in the site.

For more information, visit the company’s website at 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

• In November 2023, Vision Marine filed with the SEC to sell 370,000 ordinary shares priced at $4.05 in a private placement
• The company in November 2023 reported its receipt of a purchase order from boat manufacturer Wired Pontoons for 25 units of its E-Motion 180E powertrain system
• Vision Marine announced in October 2023 delivery of E-Motion 180E powertrain technology to boat manufacturer Groupe Beneteau, to be integrated on the Four Winns H2e Bowrider model
• In August 2023, a catamaran powered by a Vision Marine powertrain set an electric boat world speed record of 116 mph at the Lake of the Ozarks Shootout in Missouri
• The company raised $27 million in a December 2020 U.S. initial public offering

Vision Marine Technologies (NASDAQ: VMAR) is a global leader and innovator within the performance electric recreational boating industry. The company is engaged in designing and manufacturing electric outboard powertrain systems and related technology. It strives to be a guiding force for change and an ongoing driving factor in fighting the problems associated with waterway pollution by disrupting the traditional boating industry with electric power, in turn directly contributing to zero pollution, zero emission and a noiseless environment.

Vision Marine manufactures hand-crafted, highly durable, low maintenance, environmentally friendly electric recreational powerboats. The company’s business segments include the sale and rental of electric boats, with the majority of its revenue attributable to electric boat sales.

The designs and technology applied to Vision Marine’s boats result in enhanced performance, higher speeds and longer range. Put simply, Vision Marine boats offer a smoother ride than a traditional internal combustion engine motorboat.

The company is headquartered in Montreal.

Products

Vision Marine’s flagship E-Motion(TM) 180E electric marine powertrain is the first fully electric outboard powertrain combining advanced battery pack, inverter and high efficiency motor with proprietary union assembly between the transmission and motor. Vision Marine’s E-Motion and related technologies in this system utilize extensive control software and are uniquely designed to improve the efficiency of the outboard powertrain. As a result, both range and performance are enhanced.

More than a powerful electric outboard motor, the 180E is a complete powertrain package. The high-tech, marine-specific motor is equipped with multi-sensor captors and independent cooling, providing 180 horsepower.

An onboard charging system allows for quick and easy charging from any shore outlet, whether the vessel is in or out of the water. It implements cutting-edge marine battery packs that are IP67 certified and built to withstand the harshest marine environments. The system is glycol cooled with a controlled heat exchanger, ensuring optimal performance and longevity. A stainless-steel casing protects the battery from corrosion and physical damage over time.

The 180E is built to be integrated with many boat models produced by other marine manufacturers. Since boat manufacturers rarely build their own engines, instead choosing to source them from engine manufacturers, Vision Marine believes the 180E propulsion system can in the future end up powering nearly every recreational boat.

Market Opportunity

According to a report from Future Market Insights, a certified market research organization, the global electric boats market is expected to grow from a value of $5.6 billion in 2023 to $15.1 billion by 2033, achieving a CAGR of 10.4% during the forecast period.

Factors driving growth include rising seaborne commerce activities, a flourishing marine tourism industry and stringent emissions regulations aimed at reducing pollution. In addition, government support for electric speedboat adoption, advances in technological development and research and forecast expansion of needed charging infrastructure are credited as growth drivers.

An emphasis on reducing carbon emissions and encouraging consumer adoption of eco-friendly boats is also likely to drive expansion of the market, the report states.

Management Team

Alexandre Mongeon is Co-Founder and CEO of Vision Marine Technologies. He has served as CEO since 2014. Prior to that, he imported high-performance boats from the United States to Canada for more than 15 years. During much of that time, he also worked as a designer and contractor and managed several new construction projects on the waterfront in and around Montreal. He is a graduate of the School of Construction in Laval, Quebec, with a specialization in electrical systems.

Xavier Montagne is Chief Technical Officer at Vision Marine. Prior to joining the company, he was the CEO of Mac Engineering for six years. While there, he was the electric powerline architect of the Renault Trezor concept car (awarded 2016 Best Concept Car), technical designer of the Zoe E-sport race car driven in Formula-E races from 2016-2019 and senior battery designer for Forsee Power, SAFT, Renault and Peugeot in Europe, to mention a few of the many projects he headed. He received an electronic engineer diploma from IFITEP Paris Polytech in France.

Kulwant Sandher is CFO at Vision Marine. He is a Chartered Professional Accountant with more than 25 years of experience in business and finance. He has served as CFO of multiple public and private companies, including ElectraMeccanica Vehicles Corp., MineSense Technologies Inc., Alba Mineral Ltd., Delta Oil & Gas, Astorius Resources Ltd., Norsemont Mining Inc. and Intigold Mines Ltd. He graduated from Queen Mary College, University of London.

For more information, visit the company’s website at https://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

• Lexaria, a global innovator in drug delivery platforms, has, through its patented DehydraTECH(TM) technology, proven to enhance the performance of several categories of fat-soluble active molecules and drugs
• Since 2018, human clinical studies on the technology have yielded positive results, ultimately earning Lexaria 37 granted patents globally, with many more pending around the world
• With the strides made so far, Lexaria looks to grow its revenue and commercial opportunities through licensing

Lexaria Bioscience (NASDAQ: LEXX), a global innovator in drug delivery platforms, remains committed to its mission to provide healthier delivery methods of drugs and other Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (“APIs”). This is made possible through its patented drug delivery technology, DehydraTECH(TM), proven to enhance the performance of several categories of fat-soluble active molecules and drugs across oral and/or topical product formats.

The company’s efforts have focused on several key segments, including hypertension, diabetes, antivirals, epilepsy, nicotine replacement, and more. This has been an ongoing process since 2016, with positive results achieved from various clinical studies thus far, showing up to 17x brain absorption improvements for oral administration of APIs. In 2021, for instance, the nicotine oral mucosal animal absorption study, NIC-A21-1, demonstrated a 10x to 20x reduction in time to deliver peak levels of nicotine, as well as a 1.7x to 6.6x improvement in nicotine levels in the bloodstream (https://ibn.fm/HrpZL).

This is enabled by DehydraTECH’s specific design for formulating and delivering lipophilic drugs and APIs. By increasing their effectiveness and improving the way they enter the bloodstream, DehydraTECH can offer a wide range of benefits, such as a significant increase in bioavailability, increased brain absorption, improving the speed of onset, masking unwanted tastes, and reduced drug administration costs.

Human clinical studies have been conducted since 2018, with more on the way, ultimately earning Lexaria 37 granted patents globally, with many more pending around the world. From 2018 to 2022, four human clinical studies on the potential treatment of hypertension were completed, evidencing lower blood pressure (“BP”) with zero serious adverse events. Lexaria is now closer than ever to submitting its Investigational New Drug (“IND”) application for its planned U.S. Phase 1b Hypertension Clinical Trial with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

For the first half of the 2023 calendar year, animal studies on using DehydraTECH-processed CBD for potentially treating diabetes demonstrated positive results such as reduced triglyceride levels, weight loss, and improved cholesterol levels. . .

“This is a remarkable achievement that speaks to the capabilities of the DehydraTECH technology and also to the Lexaria R&D team, working ardently with scarce resources relative to global multi-billion-dollar behemoths,” noted Chris Bunka, Lexaria’s CEO (https://ibn.fm/D0s8F).

With the strides made, Lexaria looks to grow its revenue and commercial opportunities through licensing. Given its versatile application areas, the technology can be licensed by both the consumer-packaged goods industry and the drug and pharmaceutical sector. Its suitability cuts across a growing range of consumer product formats, such as registered drugs, nutraceuticals, oral suspensions, topical applications, capsules, pills, tablets and more.

The progress achieved thus far by Lexaria is remarkable. Its goals are also much more significant, as evidenced by the time and resources invested into DehydraTECH development. The efforts so far affirm the company’s commitment to providing healthier delivery methods for drugs and other APIs. They also assert its commitment to creating shareholder value and stamping its position as a leader in its segment.

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

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

• Caesars and MGM Resorts recently experienced a homegrown attack that compromised data and cost each company tens of millions of dollars
• Casinos and other businesses often store data, including names, addresses, and other private information, all of it potentially subject to hacks, in spite of assumed protections
• Sekur Private Data offers a suite of superior protective products, with encrypted emails, secure messengers, and strong communication tools, all utilizing Swiss-based servers designed to safeguard information

The gaming industry in the United States has been shown to be targets of successful cyber-attacks. Two recent attacks against Caesars and MGM Resorts have left the companies paying out tens of millions of dollars to regain control of their systems, leaving patrons’ information vulnerable during the attack (https://ibn.fm/RQmQr). This past week on New to the Street, internationally acclaimed internet privacy expert Alain Ghiai, CEO of Sekur Private Data (CSE: SKUR) (OTCQB: SWISF) (FRA: GTD0), a cybersecurity and internet privacy provider of Swiss-hosted solutions for secure and private communications, and multi-media journalist Ana Berry, discussed the significance of the casino’s stolen data (https://ibn.fm/L9UZS).

According to the segment, the attack occurred from a source within the United States, and the FBI is still investigating the crime. They hypothesize that the hackers are selling the data stolen on the Dark Web. The initial attack appears to have come from an email, and most casinos and other businesses use open-source email platforms, making them more vulnerable to attacks.

Mr. Ghiai said the data is valuable – providing information like names, addresses, hotel stay particulars, and other private information. Even if someone hasn’t recently stayed at one of the casino properties, data from years ago may have been on the servers when the information was stolen.

The single best defense against such threats is a secure email communication platform. Sekur Private Data offers a suite of products with encrypted and private emails, secure messengers, and secure communication tools. The company has chosen Switzerland to locate its data storage because of its neutrality, independence, strong privacy laws, long-standing political stability, and excellent international relations. Switzerland is also home to several large multinational corporations and is ranked as having one of the world’s strongest and most competitive economies.

Sekur’s secure email platform allows management and other C-suite executives a private and secure communication platform. This unique product enables splitting a business domain, allowing emails on Sekur’s platform without limiting the domain’s other emails on other platforms. SekurMail also comes with the SekurSend/SekurReply feature that invites electronic communication on a closed-loop encrypted platform. Even non-subscribers can benefit from the security and privacy features when they receive an email from a Sekur subscriber.

In addition to SekurMail, the company also provides:

• SekurVPN creates a secure, encrypted connection between client’s devices and the internet, giving them access to the web safely and privately by routing their connections through a server and hiding online activities. All data sent and received is hidden from prying eyes.
• SekurMessenger is a Swiss-hosted private and secure messaging communications app providing secure and private chat, self-deleting chat, voice recording, and file transfers via any mobile device, tablet, or desktop computer. All communications are transmitted within Sekur’s secure servers.

Mr. Ghiai reiterated during the show that Sekur wholly owns and controls its Swiss-based servers, never sells data, never mines data, never asks for phone numbers, never uses third-party providers, and never tracks internet traffic. The company offers a 15% savings toward monthly and yearly subscriptions with PROMO CODE: PRIVACY.

You can watch previous episodes of New to the Street or subscribe to stay up-to-date on the newest episodes at https://ibn.fm/nDb14.

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

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

• Prospera Energy recently announced that its sixth horizontal well has commenced drilling
• The well forms part of the company’s phase 2 initiatives, which will see it drill a total of ten horizontal and 8 vertical wells across its Cuthbert and Heart Hill properties
• Recent successes within the program – has seen drilling work and production profiles come in well ahead of expectations – this has prompted Prospera to extend its second phase beyond the initially planned ten horizontal wells
• The company separately revealed that it has reached a production of 1,100 boe/d from its five initial wells as of end October, not including a further 700 boe/d of production currently shut-in to facilitate ongoing developmental work

Prospera Energy (TSX.V: PEI) (OTC: GXRFF) (FRA: OF6B), a public oil and gas exploration, exploitation and development company focusing on conventional oil and gas reservoirs in Western Canada, provided investors and stakeholders with some positive news in recent days (https://ibn.fm/vWRmk). The company announced that its sixth horizontal well had successfully commenced production as of early November, only weeks after announcing the resumption of its horizontal infill drilling program. Prospera have recently launched the second phase of its drilling program, centered around drilling 10 horizontal well locations across its Cuthbert and Hearty Hill properties, with the eventual goal of tripling the company’s daily crude output in 2023.

The company revealed that the initial batch of 5 horizontal wells it had drilled had outperformed its estimated production curve, with the wells’ IP60 (i.e., average daily rate of production after a cumulative 60 days of production) outperforming Prospera Energy’s initial forecasts. With five horizontal wells now in production – and a sixth having recently joined their ranks, albeit not accounted for in the production total – Prospera has seen its gross production swell to 1,100 barrels of oil per day (boe/d). That figure fails to account for 400 boe/d currently halted to accommodate ongoing well development efforts as well as a further 300 boe/d paused to facilitate minor repairs and optimization efforts within the piping network.

With Prospera Energy’s second phase running well ahead of schedule, as well as in an effort to take advantage of currently elevated Western Canadian Select crude prices per barrel, the oil & gas developer have announced plans to extend their initial ten well program, with the development of its light oil slanted wells now set to extended well into the coming year.

Prospera Energy will finance its ongoing activities through its recent debt capital raise, a non-brokered private placement of debt financing which has sought to raise up to $3 million. Proceeds from the financing activity will go towards both, ongoing drilling work as well as to accommodate the company’s joint venture partner deficit; with Prospera’s joint venture partners currently experiencing difficulties, Prospera has assumed total ownership over the project’s costs and foreseeable revenues until the ongoing situation is remedied.

Prospera’s business model has been centered on optimizing hydrocarbon recovery from legacy oilfields using innovative production practices, a production method which has enabled Prospera to both, optimize recovery costs – with less need to carry out exploration and initial drill work – and benefit from modern crude extraction technologies. Similarly, it has allowed the company to bypass issues afflicting peers operating within the realm of the Canadian oil sands space, wherein companies have had to contend with the twin headwinds posed by elevated extraction costs and environmental impact.

With ongoing OPEC-led production cuts, geopolitical concerns, and a potential economic recovery within China likely to maintain crude prices elevated as we go into 2024, Prospera Energy’s rapidly improving crude production profile promises to hold it in good stead going forward.

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

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

• Diamond Lake Minerals is a Utah-based leader in the digital asset and security token space, focused on building and distributing wealth through a smart model that combines holding multiple subsidiaries with targeted STOs (Security Token Offerings)
• A principal element of DLMI’s strategy is to attract traditional investors familiar with buying stock but generally digital asset-avoidant because of their unfamiliarity with new tech alternatives
• DLMI’s subsidiary holdings are based upon building a vertically integrated company that develops enterprises to the point they can become self-sufficient and can eventually be spun off into their own IPOs
• Under the company’s new and growing leadership, its market capitalization has rocketed from around $1 million to over $100 million in less than three months, and its stock jumped during the same period to nearly 12 times its historic value

Multi-strategy operating company Diamond Lake Minerals (OTC: DLMI) CEO Brian J. Esposito highlighted the company’s rapid early growth trajectory during a new interview with the Proactive Investors webcast, pointing out Diamond Lake’s market capitalization jump from “around a million dollars” to over $100 million in just a couple months’ time, and a big stock price increase during that period indicative of investors’ support of the company’s new vision and strategy.

“Multiple subsidiaries is the plan underneath our holdings,” Esposito told webcast host Steve Darling in the interview posted Nov. 20 (https://ibn.fm/DTl58). “The whole idea is wealth preservation, wealth enhancement for our shareholders, get these entities to be performing to their maximum capacity, with the assistance of our advisers and our great experienced management team that we keep adding to our arsenal be able to get these companies very profitable, get them to be extremely self-sufficient, and the idea is to spin them off into their own standalone IPO at some point.”

Each of the subsidiaries will also have a U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”)-registered security token offering (“STO”) designed to appeal to traditional investors who are otherwise unfamiliar with digital assets.

“Now these are the wealth of the world that don’t believe in things like crypto or digital assets or NFTs. They don’t know how to get involved, they’re intimidated by the process, but they know how to buy a stock, so we want to be that stock that they hold in their portfolio to say that they are supporting that industry and they’re actually investing into that space,” Esposito said.

“And the other aspect of it, having a security token offering in the market helps give us more capital to our holdings and it helps open up additional investors around the world to participate in the work that we’re doing,” he added.

DLMI is industry-agnostic, holding and working to acquire enterprises in dozens of sectors ranging from music and entertainment to real estate, healthcare and water accessibility. The company expects to redefine the conglomerate model for the 21st century with a focus on vertical integration, digital securities and sustainable growth.

DLMI will do so by pioneering a hybrid approach to traditional securities and security tokens, positioning itself as an authority in the market and demonstrating how its model can mitigate volatility while drawing in additional capital to support its initiatives and building investor confidence in the process.

In addition, for information on the company’s security token SEC regulated exchange partner INX, and the development of the INX Way, visit https://www.inx.co/inx-ebook/.  This free security token bible, written with the SEC on the rollout of security tokens and the future of digital assets, will greatly deepen your understanding of security tokens.

For more information, visit the company’s website at www.DiamondLakeMinerals.com or LinkedIn page at www.LinkedIn.com/company/Diamond-Lake-Minerals/. 

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

• SuperCom, a global leading provider of traditional and digital identity solutions, just reported a 550% growth in EBITDA and a 74% growth in gross profit margin for Q3 2023
• Gross profit also saw an 89% YOY growth, and revenue YOY increased to $6.8 million from $6.3 million
• Ordan Trabelsi, SuperCom’s President and CEO, attributed impressive performance to the company’s successful execution of its growth strategy

SuperCom (NASDAQ: SPCB), a global leading provider of traditional and digital identity solutions offering advanced safety, identification, and security solutions to governments, just released its financial and operating results for the third quarter of the 2023 financial year (“Q3 2023”). Of note was the 550% growth in EBITDA and a 74% growth in gross profit margins that Ordan Trabelsi, SuperCom’s President and CEO, attributed to the “Successful execution of SuperCom’s growth strategy” (https://ibn.fm/4lm4s).

Revenue for Q3 2023 stood at $6.8 million, up from $6.3 million in Q3 2022. Gross profit saw an 89% year-over-year (“YOY”) growth to $4.0 million from $2.1 million in 2022, while operating income improved by 200% to $0.8 million, up from a $0.8 million operating loss the previous year. For the nine months ending September 30, 2023, SuperCom’s revenue grew by 67%, with gross profit seeing a 66% increase. Non-GAAP operating income also improved to $3.2 million, compared to a $1.1 million loss the previous year.

“A 5-year record net profit, remarkable 550% growth in EBITDA, and 74% growth in gross profit margins are clear indicators of the successful execution of our growth strategy,” noted Mr. Trabelsi.

“The significant increase in the company’s profit margins is driven by the forward momentum we’ve maintained across our projects, where margins typically enhance as projects mature. This trend is an indicator of further potential margin expansion when project timelines align,”  he added.

So far, in 2023, SuperCom’s aggressive expansion has and continues to pay off. Its foray into Europe and North America has seen a significant uptick in product and service adoption, allowing the company to carve out a significant market share and stamp its position as an industry leader. Romania, for instance, submitted a third order to the tune of $3.4 million, with delivery set for Q4 2023. SuperCom also won a $3 million contract to deliver Alcohol Monitoring technologies in California and launched a $3.6 million national EM project in Finland, among others.

“Our steadfast commitment to advancing public safety through technology resonates with governments and agencies worldwide as evidenced by the continued expansion in Finland and our growing partnership with Romania’s Ministry of Interior,” noted Mr. Trabelsi.

“These relationships, underpinned by our cutting-edge technology and reliable services, translate into solid financial performance and increased shareholder value,” he added.

SuperCom looks to build on the current momentum, expand into new markets, and create shareholder value. With its upgraded technological suite, the company has bolstered and continues to bolster its product offering, sharpening its competitive edge and strategic positioning in the global market. With the growing demand for secured electronic monitoring solutions, SuperCom is eyeing potential margin expansion, and its management is optimistic that it will achieve that.

“We are confident that our strategic decisions will further propel us towards achieving our long-term objectives and securing SuperCom’s position as a leader in the industry,” noted Ordan.

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

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

• Sekur signed a major distribution agreement with a distributor in the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan and The Republic of Iraq to distribute its entire Sekur Swiss-hosted private and encrypted communications platform
• CEO Alain Ghiai is participating in weekly discussions about cybersecurity and internet security on Fox Business TV’s Weekly Sekur Hack of the Week with multimedia journalist Ana Berry to raise awareness of recent cybersecurity threats
• Sekur’s 100% owned Swiss-hosted servers offer closed-loop secure encrypted products, including SekurVPN, SekurMail, SekurMessenger, and other services for businesses, governments, and individuals

Sekur Private Data (CSE: SKUR) (OTCQB: SWISF) (FRA: GTD0), a cybersecurity and internet privacy provider of Swiss-hosted solutions for secure and private communications, recently announced that it has signed a major distribution agreement with a distributor in the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan and The Republic of Iraq to distribute its entire Sekur Swiss-hosted private and encrypted communications platform. The agreement was signed with Solutions Communications & Security Systems and is valid for 12 months, with renewal options for an additional 12 months. The agreement also covers all of Jordan Iraq, specifically a telecom operator in Iraq called Asiacell Telecommunications Company (https://ibn.fm/TCVF8).

Sekur’s agreement with Jordan and Iraq sheds light on the world’s cybersecurity and internet privacy concerns. To raise awareness on recent cybersecurity issues, the company’s CEO, Alain Ghiai, participates in weekly discussions with New to the Street TV Co-Host/Multimedia Journalist Ana Berry.

The most recent episode discussed how Russians hacked the U.S. Department of Justice and the U.S. Pentagon, stealing about 632,000 email addresses (https://ibn.fm/3PE9P). After an investigation by the U.S. Office of Personnel Management, the source of the cybersecurity breach was a file-share software product called “Move It.” The software had code vulnerabilities that Russian hackers exploited to access the email platform.

Mr. Ghiai explained that many software companies hire 3rd parties to help develop applications, quality controls, and other security features that can be overlooked during development. These 3rd parties often use Big Tech’s open-source software products to create code, which is a furtherance of shortcomings that hackers can find access to a technology platform.

Current geopolitical problems have fueled more frequent bouts of hacking worldwide. Hackers infiltrated Germany’s largest internet service provider, and many believe that Russia was behind this attack because of Germany’s political support for Ukraine. Hackers are taking sides amidst the current war in the Middle East and looking for ways to breach supporting countries.

The best way to limit possible cybersecurity problems is by having separate email accounts, general purpose email, and a private secure platform for sensitive information transmissions. Sekur’s 100% owned Swiss-hosted servers offer closed-loop secure encrypted products, including SekurVPN, SekurMail, SekurMessenger, and other services for businesses, governments, and individuals.

Sometime in 2024, Sekur plans to roll out a new voice encryption service for businesses, another product to help defend against hackers. All of the company’s products have features that have been developed to help significantly diminish cybersecurity hack threats. Sekur uses no third-party technology providers, never asks for phone numbers, does no data mining, never sells data, and controls/owns its servers in Switzerland – a country with the strictest privacy laws in the world.

Sekur’s products are available through subscription, reasonably priced, and easy to use. For a limited time, SekurVPN is available for a 30-day trial, and the company is offering 15% off monthly and yearly fees with Promo Code: PRIVACY.

Stay up-to-date on Mr. Ghiai’s weekly discussions by following New to the Street TV at https://newtothestreet.com/?s=sekur or on the Sekur blog at https://sekur.com/blog/.

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

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

• In August 2023, SOHM signed an LOI with CGA Intellectual Holdings Inc. to acquire disruptive stem cell technology and patents
• The company announced in July 2023 it had closed on the needed financing for its various ongoing projects
• SOHM announced in April 2023 it had signed an exclusive distribution agreement for its latest product, the anticonvulsant Levetiracetam
• The company in March 2023 introduced its new topical skincare line of products

SOHM (OTC: SHMN) is a generic pharmaceutical manufacturing and marketing company with a vision of “Globalè Prospèro” (Global Prosperity). SOHM was founded in 1998 and is headquartered in Chino Hills, California.

The company’s primary goal is to create and produce cutting-edge generic medications that span a wide range of treatment areas, all while ensuring top-tier quality and keeping prices affordable. SOHM is dedicated to fully complying with all relevant regulatory prerequisites and upholding the most rigorous industry benchmarks, including the guidelines set forth by WHO-CGMP and USFDA.

Achievements and Milestones

SOHM is a recognized generic pharmaceutical manufacturer, with production and marketing of generic drugs covering all major treatment categories. SOHM also markets innovative formulations and packaging for various therapeutic segments, such as cosmeceuticals, nutraceuticals and OTC oral dosage formulations, with operations spanning India, the Philippines, Uganda, the U.S., the UK and the EU.

SOHM successfully launched a unique and innovative Salic-2 face wash, FōHM by SOHM, during the Oscar after party in Hollywood. The innovative Salic-2 offering in translucent gel form is marketed as an acne medication in the U.S. cosmeceutical market.

With proficiency in both manufacturing and marketing, SOHM stands out. The company holds licenses for producing over 300 products and has established distribution partnerships with firms in the United States, the Philippines and Uganda. Additionally, SOHM’s repertoire includes the launch of an innovative protein supplement, I-Prolec, featuring a distinct composition—a first-of-its-kind in India.

In 2012, SOHM gained recognition as “the most emerging company in the recent past” at the National Integrated Medical Association Conference. The company’s growth was underscored by its inclusion in the roster of ‘Fastest Growing Public Companies’ according to the Orange County Business Journal.

SOHM Today

SOHM brings all of its expertise and market knowledge toward a new vision. The company continues to develop, manufacture and market generic pharmaceutical drugs for various treatment categories. It offers its products in various dosage forms, including tablets and capsules, creams and topicals, ointments and liquids. The company also provides anti-arthritic/analgesics, dermatological drugs, gastrointestinal and respiratory drugs, biotechnology products, anesthetics, immunosuppressive agents and other various treatments. In addition, it offers a skincare line that includes dry dermatoses, mixed skin infection, acne vulgaris and seborrheic dermatitis products.

SOHM markets its products directly and through partner alliance agreements to drug wholesalers, mass merchandisers, chain drug stores and mail-order pharmacies primarily in the U.S. and has previously done business in the Far East, Africa and Southeast Asia. The company is working with its alliance partner in the African continent and Latin American countries.

SOHM has developed a comprehensive marketing strategy encompassing a diverse range of tactics to promote all products. SOHM uses the power of digital marketing channels, social media campaigns and targeted advertising to significantly enhance awareness and recognition of product offerings.

All distribution networks are strengthened through valuable partnerships. SOHM has gained access to the extensive U.S. market through a strategic alliance with different wholesalers catering to C-stores and retailers. The company has likewise partnered with a distribution firm that holds a remarkable network of more than 4,500 independent pharmacy accounts.

Additionally, a strong partnership with a prominent distribution network in New Jersey enables SOHM to facilitate nationwide distribution to big distribution houses, hospitals and retail chain stores which include but are not limited to Walmart, Publix, Sam’s and many more retail giants, thus extending the company’s market presence.

SOHM Long-Term

A report by Grand View Research estimated the global nutraceuticals market at $291.33 billion in 2022 and forecasts expansion at a compound annual growth rate (“CAGR”) of 9.4% from 2023 to 2030. The report states primary factors driving the market growth are preventive health care, increasing instances of lifestyle-related disorders, and rising consumer focus on health-promoting diets. Additionally, increasing consumer spending power in high-growth economies is projected to contribute to the growing demand for nutraceutical products.

Grand View valued the global NSAID market at $19.55 billion in 2021 and forecast it would expand to nearly $30 billion by 2030, marking a CAGR of 5.36% for the period. Projected growth is attributed to factors like the rising prevalence of chronic pain across the world, coupled with a growing global geriatric population. In addition, increasing demand for OTC NSAIDs and the rising adoption of NSAIDs in treating headaches, migraine, toothaches and menstrual pain is expected to boost market growth.

Fortune Business Insights estimated that the global cosmeceuticals market was worth $54.57 billion in 2022 and projects the market will grow to a value of $96.23 billion by 2029, marking a CAGR of 8.4% during the forecast period. The report credits the projected growth to the prevalence of skin disorders around the world and the inclination of dermatologists to prescribe or recommend these products as compared to other treatments.

SOHM envisions a future where it evolves into a prominent global corporation, expanding its reach across international borders while upholding its fundamental core values. The company aspires to extend its export portfolio to encompass 11 countries, showcasing a robust international presence.

Aiming for financial stability, SOHM is committed to maintaining sufficient working capital to support its growth endeavors. The company’s forward trajectory involves strategic collaborations, mergers with diverse brands and a focused approach to business expansion through vertical integration and a balanced mix of organic and inorganic strategies.

In this pursuit, SOHM is dedicated to establishing its proprietary network of partners within the over the counter (“OTC”) sector. Furthermore, the company seeks heightened recognition within crucial therapeutic domains, including oncology, HIV, cardiovascular health, diabetes care and skincare-dermatology, solidifying its prominent standing in these pivotal segments.

Management Team

Baron Night is CEO, President, and Director at SOHM Inc. He has over 40 years of experience in various industries with extensive contacts in emerging markets. His leadership and track record are great assets to the company as SOHM continues to strengthen its position and develop large-scale distribution of generic drug lines.

David Aguilar, Ph.D., is the COO of SOHM. He has 22 years of experience in the pharmaceutical industry, including multiple research positions and scientific publications. He has an extensive background in pharmaceutical Chemistry Manufacturing and Controls (“CMC”), as well as quality assurance experience in preclinical and Investigational New Drug (“IND”) application filings of allogeneic cell-based therapies. He has a deep understanding of regulatory and clinical pathways, coupled with an extensive scientific and technical background in the fields of pharmaceuticals, biopharmaceuticals and gene editing tools research.

Dr. Krishna Bhat, MD PHD, FACC, has a cardiology practice of over 35 years in the field of Clinical and Interventional Cardiology. He is a recipient of the 2021 Hall of Fame Award from the American Heart Association, which was awarded in recognition of his commitment to excellence in the field of Cardiovascular Care through his leadership as an outstanding physician, researcher, and educator. He is also a recipient of the Miles Canada Fellowship Award and the J. Louis Levesque Fellowship Award from Montreal Heart Institute in Montreal, Canada.

Dewey Rushing is a Senior Compliance Remediation and Quality Professional with over 30 years of experience in Quality Assurance and cGMP Compliance for products regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (“FDA”). He served as a trained Consumer Safety Investigator at the FDA and Instructor at the Los Angeles District. He has in-depth knowledge in technology transfer of biologics and pharmaceutical products, as well as validation of manufacturing equipment, facility cleaning and critical utility systems maintenance. He has an extensive background in auditing GMP facilities, implementing quality systems and performing gap assessments of manufacturing processes and facilities. He has also directed remediation projects in response to federal compliance audit observations.

Sowmya Jacob, MBA-PGP, possesses over a decade of accomplished and evolving expertise in human resources management, along with manufacturing and operations management. She earned an MBA, complemented by advanced marketing certifications. Demonstrating a track record of achievement, she excels in cultivating collaborative work environments and orchestrating transformative changes that lead to heightened productivity. With adeptness in business analysis, she has occupied senior managerial roles, showcasing her mastery. An engaged participant in professional circles, she maintains active memberships in SPHR and CHRP.

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

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

• D-Wave third-quarter revenue grew by 51% year-over-year
• D-Wave’s third quarter bookings increased by 53% year-over-year, representing the company’s sixth consecutive quarter of year-over-year booking growth, while the first three quarters bookings increased by 125% when compared to the year earlier period
• CEO Dr. Alan Baratz recently met with Members of Congress to urge them to support the reauthorization of the National Quantum Initiative and ensure that it was expanded to encompass all quantum computing technologies

D-Wave Quantum (NYSE: QBTS), a leader in commercial quantum computing systems, software, and services, recently announced financial results for its fiscal third quarter, which ended September 30, 2023. D-Wave CEO Dr. Alan Baratz believes this is a pivotal moment in quantum computing, as the company leads the industry’s transformative shift from research and developmental experimentation to true delivery of quantum’s enterprise value and utility. “Our annealing quantum computing solutions are driving real business impact today, and we believe that our third quarter results reflect a growing recognition that D-Wave is leading the enterprise quantum wave,” said Baratz (https://nnw.fm/cwuDu). (https://ibn.fm/gUqPU).

Notable third-quarter financial highlights for the company include:

• Growing third-quarter revenue by 51% year-over-year and 50% sequentially from the second-quarter
• A 53% increase year-over-year in D-Wave’s bookings, representing the company’s sixth consecutive quarter of year-over-year booking growth. This brings the company’s year-to-date bookings to $8.4 million, an increase of $4.6 million, or 125% from the corresponding period in 2022
• Working with commercial customers on various new quantum and quantum-hybrid applications spanning customer rewards optimization, radar scheduling for national security, HVAC system design optimization, 6G satellite network optimization, and more

Baratz noted that the company is also seeing customers moving from development to deployment of applications, as they are witnessing first-hand the business impact and advantage that can be achieved using D-Wave’s annealing quantum computing solutions. “That growing commercial success, coupled with our ongoing world-class product development and scientific advancements, reflect, in our opinion, impressive progress across all facets of our business.”

D-Wave’s relentless pursuit of practical quantum computing has resulted in the company’s technology being used today by some of the world’s most advanced enterprises. The company recently initiated an exploration of its quantum technology’s integration with new machine learning areas, including prompt optimization and model training, to potentially bring the power of quantum to artificial intelligence and machine learning for its customers.

In September, Baratz met with Members of Congress to urge them to support the reauthorization of the National Quantum Initiative and ensure that it was expanded to encompass all quantum computing technologies (annealing, hybrid, and gate model). Passage of this legislation could accelerate the development of near-term quantum applications, providing solutions to complex public-sector problems, including optimizing global supply chains, electrical grid resilience, drug discovery, infrastructure, and stability.

SavantX, has used D-Wave’s quantum technology for a variety of projects, including optimization of Pier 300 operations at the Port of Los Angeles – addressing global supply chain strains facing the nation. SavantX CEO Ed Heinbockel said his company was proud to be at the forefront of quantum computing technology, driving innovation and pushing the boundaries of what is possible (https://nnw.fm/gOuPa). (https://ibn.fm/150lf). “Our work on application development to solve real-world problems is a testament to the power of this technology and is better than what classical computers can do alone,” Heinbockel added. “This legislation’s focus on near-term applications and commercialization will be important to push the use of the technology to solve critical public sector problems.”

More customer success stories highlighting D-Wave’s quantum solutions in real-world scenarios can be found at https://nnw.fm/WH4xM. https://ibn.fm/EQ30o.

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

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

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. Forward-looking statements in this press release include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the potential for D-Wave to bring the power of quantum to artificial intelligence and machine learning to its customers and the potential impact of the National Quantum Initiative legislation. These forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, including, among others, various factors beyond management’s control, including whether the initiatives set forth in the NQI are implemented and, if so, the success of such initiatives general economic conditions and other risks; the company’s ability to expand its customer base and the customer adoption of its solutions; risks within D-Wave’s industry, including anticipated trends, growth rates, and challenges for companies engaged in the business of quantum computing and the markets in which they operate; the outcome of any legal proceedings that may be instituted against us; risks related to the performance of the company’s business and the timing of expected business or financial milestones; unanticipated technological or project development challenges, including with respect to the cost and/or timing thereof; the performance of the company’s products; the effects of competition on its business; the risk that D-Wave will need to raise additional capital to execute its business plan, which may not be available on acceptable terms or at all; the risk that the company may never achieve or sustain profitability; the risk that the company is unable to secure or protect its intellectual property; volatility in the price of the company’s securities; the risk that its securities will not maintain the listing on the NYSE; and the numerous other factors set forth in D-Wave’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for its fiscal year ended December 31, 2022 and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. 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 D-Wave on the date hereof. D-Wave undertakes no duty to update this information unless required by law.