• Ucore Rare Metals Inc. is dedicated to providing North American independence from China’s near-monopolistic control of the rare earth element (“REE”) production pipeline that supplies metals critical to modern technologies
• The company has developed a trademarked solution that improves on the standard process used worldwide for separating REEs from their host ores, and Ucore is demonstrating its solution’s capabilities at a Canadian facility ahead of a planned commercial operation
• Ucore recently announced acquisition of a U.S.-sourced light REE feedstock that will be its third REE feedstock for the demonstration plant, allowing it to compare its RapidSX(TM) solution side-by-side with standard (“SX”) light and heavy REE separation process output
• Once the demonstration plant’s commissioning process is complete, Ucore will undertake a similar demonstration program for qualification under a U.S. Department of Defense grant that will show the strategic value of the solution

Critical technology metals supply chain innovator Ucore Rare Metals (TSX.V: UCU) (OTCQX: UURAF) is steadily and quickly developing its infrastructure for North America-based rare earth element (“REE”) processing, strengthening its competitive position and ability to disrupt the People’s Republic of China’s control of the North American REE supply chain.

Ucore began demonstrating the performance of its proprietary RapidSX(TM) solvent extraction process during the spring at an Ontario, Canada facility, and on June 29 the company announced acquisition of a third REE feedstock for the demonstration plant, establishing it as a first-of-a-kind facility in North America.

“We believe that Ucore’s Kingston, Ontario, Demo Plant is currently the largest heavy REE separation plant in North America,” Ucore Vice President and COO Mike Schrider stated in the announcement (https://ibn.fm/OSDto). “It is capable of processing tens of tonnes of light and heavy REEs utilizing the exact same equipment — and represents a unique technological advantage as North America endeavors to compete on the global stage to produce individual rare earth oxides required to support the growing EV industry.”

Ucore is preparing for the construction of a commercial-scale operation at a property it acquired this year in Louisiana, United States. Its RapidSX technology is at least three times more efficient than the standard SX (also known as CSX) process used worldwide to separate REEs from their host ores, according to independent evaluations. RapidSX has also demonstrated advantages in terms of overall processing time, operational costs and environmental impacts (https://ibn.fm/3fi5S).

The Canadian demonstration plant is designed to show RapidSX can process varied light and heavy REE feedstocks through the same circuit and to provide a direct comparison of its output with that of a corresponding standard SX mixer settler pilot plant.

Once that commissioning program is complete, Ucore will further demonstrate RapidSX capability in compliance with a qualification program for the US Department of Defense, which provided the company with a $4 million grant to show that its technology constitutes new innovation capable of supporting North American REE production plants (https://ibn.fm/hQNEd).

Construction of the Louisiana commercial operation — the first of at least three North American Strategic Metals Complex (“SMC”) facilities Ucore has planned — is expected to begin later this year.

REEs have become critical metal elements for use in modern electronics, particularly in electric vehicle batteries as government and industry leaders work to address pollution and climate concerns by developing alternatives to fossil fuels.

Because China controls 36.7 percent of the world’s REE reserves, 63 percent of its mining capacity, and over 90 percent of its refining capacity (https://ibn.fm/vvDan) and has used its market preeminence as leverage during international disputes (https://ibn.fm/xFHTP), American and European nations have come to regard REE pipeline independence as an important part of national defense strategy.

REE importance to modern technologies is not limited to the commercial sector, but also includes military applications in Abrams tanks and F-35 jets, as well as windmill turbine generators that play a role in national energy policies.

“The full-scale production plant (in Louisiana) is scheduled to initially process 2,000 tonnes of total rare earth oxides by the end of 2024, increasing to 5,000 tonnes in 2026,” a NetworkNewsWire editorial states (https://ibn.fm/gz4Ta).

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

• Soylent, a division of Starco Brands (a modern-day invention factory), offers a complete protein supplement line, including powders, shakes, and bars
• Known as the “World’s Most Perfect Food,” Soylent protein supplements include 28 immune-supporting vitamins and minerals, protein, fats, and carbohydrates
• Soylent’s Meal Replacement Shake was voted “Product of the Year” by 40,000 participants in a national study conducted in partnership with Kantar, a leading global consumer research firm
• The global protein supplements market is projected to grow from $27.41 billion in 2023 to $51.81 billion by 2030 at a CAGR of 9.5% over the forecast period
• Soylent has raised funds from multiple investors, including Google Ventures, The Production Board and Andreessen Horowitz
• Soylent was acquired by Starco Brands in February 2023

Protein supplements used to be the domain of bodybuilders and fitness enthusiasts; however, they’re now going mainstream as busy consumers seek nutrient-dense, convenient, and environmentally sustainable meal replacements.

Soylent, a plant-based food technology company and division of Starco Brands (OTCQB: STCB), ticks all the boxes with complete nutrition products that benefit the body while being good for the planet. Available in more than 28,000 stores like Walmart, Target, Publix, and Walgreens, the sustainable protein supplement line stands apart from the rest by providing “complete” nutrition while maximizing taste and minimizing sugar.

Soylent started out as an experiment in 2013 by engineer and entrepreneur Rob Rhinehart, where he aimed to create a powdered mixture that provided all the necessary macronutrients, vitamins, and minerals required for survival. This mixture then became the foundation of Soylent’s product line of powders, shakes, and bars, known as the “World’s Most Perfect Food.”

Soylent is strongly positioned to grow as the overall demand for protein supplements rises globally. According to a report by Fortune Business Insights, the global protein supplements market is projected to increase from $27.41 billion in 2023 to $51.81 billion by 2030 at a compound annual growth rate (“CAGR”) of 9.5% during the forecast period. Protein powder is expected to continue dominating as the leading product segment, followed by ready-to-drink protein supplements in second place. Other segments include niche products such as capsules, gels, and baked goods like bars, cakes, and cookies.

Soylent covers all primary market segments with its line of powders, bars, and ready-to-drink shakes. Backed by clinical research, all products are formulated with an optimal blend of fats, proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals to provide complete nutrition. The company also prioritizes sustainability by using soy protein, which generates 50% less CO2 than whey protein, and 25% less than brown rice or pea alternatives.

Soylent’s product line has evolved from a powdered meal replacement for busy Silicon Valley tech workers to a complete nutrition platform ideal for anyone looking to save time with convenient, portable, meal substitutes. The company’s meal replacement shakes come in a range of flavors, including Original, Banana, Cafe Chai, Cafe Mocha, Cafe Latte, Creamy Chocolate, Mint Chocolate, Strawberry, and Vanilla. With 20 grams of protein per serving, each shake provides 28 immune-supporting vitamins and minerals with only one gram of sugar. Besides providing nutritional benefits, they also taste great, according to 40,000 US consumers who voted the shake “Product of the Year” in a national study conducted in partnership with Kantar, a leading global consumer research firm.

Soylent’s ready-to-drink lineup includes Complete Energy and Complete Protein shakes. Complete energy has 180 calories, 100mg of caffeine paired with L-Theanine, and 15g of protein. This shake also has 5 added brain boosting nootropics. For consumers that want an extra hit of protein, Soylent’s Chocolate and Vanilla flavored high-protein shakes offer 30 grams of plant protein per serving, plus 5g of branched-chain amino acids (“BCAAs”) to help build and repair muscles.

Protein bars are another dominant segment of the meal replacement space. Soylent Squared Snack Bars take regular protein bars up a notch with 6 grams of protein per serving and 28 vitamins and minerals. Available in Chocolate Brownie and Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip, each bar is just 100 calories with just 1 gram of sugar.

Rounding out Soylent’s product line is its classic protein powder in original and cacao flavors. Available in pouches, tubs, and single serves, Soylent Powder provides 20 grams of plant protein per serving, with 28 vitamins and minerals in a convenient dairy, nut, and gluten-free format that can be enjoyed on its own or blended into a smoothie.

Soylent strives to maximize sustainability by using soy as its base protein source and is the only company that has earned the US-Grown Sustainable Soy Certification. The company also aims to improve access to sustainable nutrition for people globally by donating nearly 6 million meals through its Soylent for Good Program and working with 160 non-profit organizations to support food banks, hot meal programs, homeless shelters, and child feeding programs.

Since its inception, the company has raised funds from firms that include Google Ventures, The Production Board, and Andreessen Horowitz. Acquired by Starco Brands in February 2023.

“Soylent is one of those rare brands that successfully transitioned from Silicon Valley tech start-up to mainstream with mass distribution …,” said Starco Brands CEO Ross Sklar. “When combined with Starco Brands’ portfolio of formulas, access to commercial manufacturing facilities, and disruptive marketing, Soylent’s potential to grow its base and expand in adjacent category whitespaces will be game-changing.”

Starco Brands is led by CEO Ross Sklar – a chemical formulator that has acquired dozens of companies with multiple exits since 2004, and COO Darin Brown, who brings over 20 years of experience in business development, chemical manufacturing, and mergers and acquisitions. CMO David Dreyer completes the management team with over 20 years of experience working with iconic brands such as Apple, Pizza Hut, Stamps.com, Dr. Pepper, Pepsi, Snapple, Infiniti, Honda and The Grammy Awards.

Starco Brands aims to disrupt markets by inventing or acquiring innovative products that delight consumers with behavior-changing technologies. Examples from the company’s portfolio include Whipshots(R) vodka-infused whipped cream featuring global artist Cardi B, Skylar hypoallergenic perfumes, Winona Pure(R) theater-style popcorn spray powered by air and the Art of Sport premium skincare line co-founded by Kobe Bryant.

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

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

• The bioavailability enhancement technologies and services market is expected to reach $10 billion by 2035, growing at a CAGR of approximately 11%
• Drug developers are shifting focus to the development of lipophilic drug compounds, which increases bioavailability
• DehydraTECH-enabled drugs improve the speed of onset, increase bioavailability, increases brain absorption, and reduces drug administration costs
• Lexaria’s DehydraTECH has 34 patents granted worldwide and many more pending across several categories of fat-soluble active molecules and drugs
• The company operates through four separate subsidiaries to explore the potential and options for the use of DehydraTECH in respective industries

Bioavailability is the ability of a drug or other substance to be absorbed and used by the body – and in recent years, it has become an integral part of drug pharmacokinetics. The bioavailability enhancement technologies and services market is expected to reach $10 billion by 2035, growing at a CAGR of approximately 11%. Drug developers have shifted focus to developing lipophilic drug compounds, undertaking new efforts to identify enhancement techniques that mitigate the challenge of low bioavailability and stability (https://ibn.fm/bgkL3).

Lexaria Bioscience (NASDAQ: LEXX), a global innovator in drug delivery platforms, has developed its patented DehydraTECH(TM) technology to improve how active pharmaceutical ingredients (“APIs”) enter the bloodstream, promoting healthier oral digestion, increasing the effectiveness of lipophilic molecules, and increasing the bioavailability of targeted substances. DehydraTECH promotes fast-acting, less expensive, and more effective oral drug delivery, and it has been thoroughly evaluated through in vivo, in vitro, and human clinical testing.

DehydraTECH is suitable for use with a wide range of product formats, including pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, and over-the-counter capsules, pills, tablets, oral suspensions and more. The benefits of DehydraTECH include the following:

• Improves the speed of onset, with effects felt in minutes
• Increases bioavailability by more effectively delivering the drug into the bloodstream
• Increases brain absorption, with testing suggesting up to 10x improvement
• Reduces drug administration costs with a higher ratio of drug delivery

To date, Lexaria has been granted 34 patents, with several more pending worldwide, including DehydraTECH-CBD for the potential treatment of hypertension, epilepsy, and more. Lexaria is also exploring food and beverage compositions infused with lipophilic active agents – improving bioavailability through food and drink. Through animal studies, DehydraTECH has shown the ability to elevate the quantity of the drug delivered across the blood-brain barrier by as much as 1,700 percent, which has initiated additional new patent applications and has opened possibilities for improved drug delivery.

Lexaria operates four subsidiary companies to focus on different commercial opportunities in their respective industries: Lexaria Pharma Corp. investigating new products for hypertension, anti-viral treatments, and other drug classes; Lexaria Nicotine Corp. (16.67% owned by Altria Ventures Inc.), investigating oral non-combusted tobacco-derived nicotine formats; Lexaria Hemp Corp. pursuing business-to-business opportunities with cannabinoids such as cannabidiol from hemp; and Lexaria Canpharm Corp. operating a state-of-the-art Health Canada licensed laboratory capable of developing novel psychotropic cannabinoid formulations for potential commercialization in sectors where it is federally legal to do so.

Lexaria’s DehydraTECH is a revolutionary technology that makes it possible to deliver bioactive substances topically or by oral ingestion without the need for unhealthy practices of inhalational dosing where applicable and without the need for co-administration with unhealthy sugars or sweeteners commonly used to mask bitter tastes. It provides power acceleration of intestinal absorption and requires fewer quantities of drugs to achieve desired results.

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

• Eloro Resources recently published their updated corporate presentation online
• The company has been focused on its holdings within the Bolivian-based Iska Iska Property since 2020, with the site holding the potential of extensive silver and tin deposits
• Having successfully drilled over 120 holes within the site over the past three years, Eloro are now expanding their horizon to encompass the adjoining Casiterita property
• Eloro Resources are targeting the release of their initial mineral resource estimate (“MRE”) report later this year

Eloro Resources (TSX: ELO) (OTCQX: ELRRF) (FSE: P2QM) is an exploration and mining company focused on developing its potential world-class Iska Iska silver-tin polymetallic property located in the Potosi Department on southern Bolivia. Having acquired a 100% interest in the 9-square kilometre Iska Iska property in early 2020, the company has now carried out over 85,000 metres of exploratory diamond drilling across 122 holes between Sept. 2020 and Nov. 2022, with Eloro Resources set to publish their inaugural NI 43-101 mineral resource estimate in the near future.

Over the past few years, silver and tin have emerged as crucial components fuelling the global decarbonisation drive; widely sought after for their strong electrical and thermal conductive properties, both metals have transformed into vital ingredients within the energy transition supply chain with applications ranging from lithium-ion batteries, through to solar panels and electric vehicles. Nestled within the Cerro Rico de Potosi, an area renown globally as the world’s most prolific silver deposit and having hosted continuous mining activities dating back to the sixteenth century, the Potosi area was estimated some years ago to still hold a world-class silver and tin reserve amounting to over 500 million tonnes grading ~100g/t Ag and 0.2 Sn.

Discovered by Dr. Osvaldo Arce, a former President of the Bolivian Geological Society and highly prominent Bolivian geologist, and optioned by Eloro Resources as of Jan. 6, 2020, early exploratory drilling work at the Iska Iska site identified a major dacite porphyry in the center of the region’s caldera – a volcanic rock often associated with large mineral finds. Moreover, and having uncovered a number of holes featuring well mineralized intersections within the Santa Barabara Adit, expanding the strike extent of the Santa Barbara High-Grade Zone to upwards of 1,250m, Eloro Resources have now shifted their attentions towards the Mina Casiterita property, located to the immediate southwest of Iska Iska. Previously the site of extensive artisanal tin mining activity during the early 1960’s, Eloro’s recent magnetic surveys of the Mina Casiterita site have outlined the potential presence of an extensive, near surface, magnetic intrusive body within the property – a potential indicator of the presence of oxide and sulphide tin deposits in the near vicinity.

Eloro Resources have taken a number of steps in recent months and years to better position themselves to capitalize on the Iska Iska site’s mineral reserves, both through exploratory drill work as well as through extensive capital markets activity. Eloro Resources’ shares commenced trading on the Toronto Stock Exchange on March 2, 2023, with the company having simultaneously raised upwards of CDN$50 million through a series of primary market capital raisings as a measure by which to fully finance their ongoing mining operations.

Going forward, Eloro Resources remain on track to publish their inaugural NI 43-101 compliant mineral resource estimate focused around the Santa Barbara High Grade Zone and surrounding mineralized envelope, with the support of mining consultancy, Gemin Associates. Simultaneously, Eloro has looked to continue their ongoing drilling and geophysical surveys in the southernmost extremes of the Iska Iska site as well as within the Casiterita property to the southwest. A positive finding, coupled with initial successes within the site’s Santa Barbara region, could translate into a scenario, which as Eloro’s Executive Vice President of Exploration, Bill Pearson puts it, affords Eloro Resources the “remarkable opportunity at Iska Iska to outline [not one, but] two world-class deposits.”

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

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

Cannabis enthusiasts, investors, business executives, researchers, and industry leaders are invited to attend the 4th Annual Cannabis Drinks Expo to be held in San Francisco, CA on July 27, 2023. As the cannabis industry gains progress and modernization, the premier Expo is set to showcase innovative products with a specific focus on cannabis-infused beverages.

The Cannabis Drinks Expo is a highly anticipated event for industry leaders and professionals looking to explore vibrant cannabis-infused drinks. It serves as an incredible platform to bring together beverage distributors, manufacturers, professionals, and retailers, from different parts of the world. The professionals from the hospitality industry will get a unique opportunity to meet industry experts and gain valuable insights into the emerging cannabis drinks industry.

The Cannabis Drinks Expo will enable professionals to showcase their unique range of products, including CBD-infused drinks, cannabis-infused beverages, wines, craft beers, spirits, and much more. The Expo will be held in a vibrant, technologically-advanced facility designed to cater to the specific needs of attendees and exhibitors alike.

Accelerating the Cannabis Industry

The Cannabis Drinks Expo will feature a series of panel discussions and educational seminars. Led by established thought leaders, these sessions will provide attendees with a great opportunity to learn from the brightest minds in the industry. They will get valuable insights into the latest trends, market regulations, and advancements in the cannabis beverage industry.

These educational sessions will equip attendees with the tools and skills needed to excel in the ever-evolving cannabis landscape. Participants will also get a chance to explore a range of delicious and advanced cannabis-infused drink offerings, exhibiting the vision and ability of the industry’s top brands. They can engage directly with industry experts, share experiences, and build valuable business partnerships to drive innovation in the cannabis industry.

To learn more, please visit https://ibn.fm/7sSdv.

• SHRG is committed to providing cost-effective, enterprise-level solutions that address customers’ key operating needs
• Company has applied its background and experience to design quality services that will support an array of companies
• The new platform is a key component of Sharing Services’ strategic plan to diversify revenue streams

In a key announcement, Sharing Services Global (OTCQB: SHRG) has launched its new Shared Services Platform (https://ibn.fm/LXFLQ). The announcement signals the company’s strategic move to offer a variety of services specifically designed to support companies in the direct-selling industry, a space in which SHRG has proven expertise.

“At Sharing Services, our goal is to provide cost-effective, enterprise-level solutions that address our customers’ key operating needs,” said Sharing Services CEO John “JT” Thatch. “Our platform of services incorporates the absolute highest-caliber solutions for the companies we partner with.”

The company has applied its background and experience with direct selling to design a wide range of services that will support an array of companies, from startups to seasoned organizations. These cost-effective, proven solutions include financial and accounting services, global fulfillment and logistics, back-office platforms and mobile applications, commercial insurance services, merchant processing, inventory financing and equity funding, and event planning and merchandising.

In preparing for this significant offering, SHRG has partnered with other industry experts to ensure the platform delivers best-of-class services that meet the expectations of clients and customers. “With our experience starting and operating companies in this industry, we understand the issues and challenges involved in each particular instance and offer solutions to streamline any process, allowing any company to utilize our services on an à la carte basis,” observed SHRG chief financial officer Anthony S. Chan.

The new platform is a key component of Sharing Services’ strategic plan to diversify revenue streams. “It has been in the planning stages for several months, and some of the products and services are up and running now,” said Thatch. “We will be announcing each company or service in the upcoming weeks and will launch additional companies later this coming year.”

Sharing Services’ primary growth strategy is built on focused innovation and creativity. The company is purposefully positioning itself to capture a profitable market share of diverse business models.

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

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

• China has demonstrated their intension to weaponize access to critical metals, with restrictions on germanium and gallium scheduled for August, and rare earth metals used in permanent magnets could be next
• China accounts for 90% of the gallium and 80% of the germanium supply exports used in the United States and other European countries
• Gallium and germanium are two materials important for the production of semiconductor chips, and China’s control of the market makes it exceedingly difficult for secure production without a North American supply
• Ucore’s RapidSX(TM) technology utilizes similar chemistry to conventional SX and significantly improves the well-established, well-understood, proven conventional SX separation technology preferred by REE producers
• Ucore’s developing North American REE supply chain includes plants in Louisiana, Alaska, and Canada

Gallium and germanium are two materials important for producing semiconductor chips and key ingredients for power electronics chips, Radio Frequency chips, wireless communication, and high-speed signaling – used in applications like electric vehicles, data centers, 5G, radar, GPS, and wireless communications. China accounts for 90% of the gallium and 80% of the germanium supply exports used in the United States and other European countries. The growing tensions between China and countries worldwide have created a growing number of restrictive trade actions from both sides. Most recently, according to a Business Today article, China’s export curbs on gallium and germanium, two important elements for the production of semiconductors, threatens to disrupt the chip supply chain and increase the price of semiconductors and associated products (https://ibn.fm/y2bL4).

The United States is believed to hold the world’s largest germanium mines, but it does not extract the raw material, an expensive process for obtaining the required purity. Ucore Rare Metals (TSX.V: UCU) (OTCQX: UURAF), a critical metals separation technology company executing an ESG-centered plan toward establishing a comprehensive North American critical metals supply chain, has developed a transformative commercial-ready technology for separating and purifying critical metals. Ucore intends to deploy its RapidSX(TM) technology in pursuit of a critical metals supply chain independent of China and Western original equipment manufacturers – most notably in the automotive industry and renewable energy.

The global semiconductor market size was valued at $527.88 billion in 2021. The market is expected to grow from $573.44 billion in 2022 to $1.38 trillion in 2029, growing at a CAGR of 12.2%. This growth is attributed to the increased consumption of consumer electronic devices across the globe and the production of electric vehicles (https://ibn.fm/tXEsl).

Although not a new technology, RapidSX(TM) combines the time-proven chemistry of conventional solvent extraction (“SX”) with a new column-based platform that significantly reduces time to completion and plant footprint and potentially lowers capital and operation costs. SX is the international rare earth element (“REE”) industry’s standard commercial separation technology and is currently used by all REE producers worldwide for bulk commercial separation of both heavy and light REEs.

Ucore’s RapidSX(TM) technology utilizes similar chemistry to conventional SX and significantly improves the well-established, well-understood, proven conventional SX separation technology preferred by REE producers. The commissioning of Ucore’s RapidSX(TM) Demonstration Plant is underway in Kingston, Ontario, and is designed to demonstrate the commercial capabilities of its technology. Ucore’s RapidSX(TM) Demonstration Plant will show:

• The techno-economic advantages of the RapidSX(TM) technology platform
• The processing of tens of tons of heavy and light REE concentrates in a simulated production environment
• The platform’s ability to operate for thousands of semi-continuous run-time hours
• Production of high-purity NdPr, praseodymium, neodymium, terbium, and dysprosium rare earth elements for early OEM product qualification trials

The demonstration plant is located within Ucore’s 5,000-square-foot RapidSX(TM) Commercialization and Demonstration Facility run by its laboratory partner, Kingston Process Metallurgy Inc.

By 2025, Ucore expects to commercially separate US-friendly sources of REEs and supply OEMs with REOs required to produce rare earth permanent magnets, essential in electric motors and generators. The company intends to contribute to this initiative through the near-term development of heavy and light REE processing facilities in Louisiana and the subsequent development of Strategic Metals Complexes in Alaska and Canada – as well as a longer-term development of its 100% owned Heavy Rare Earth Element (“HREE”) mineral resource property at Bokan Mountain on Prince of Wales Island, Alaska.

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

• The global dermatology pharmaceutics market is booming, with increased public awareness and large unmet needs
• BiondVax competitor MoonLake Immunotherapeutics share price jumped 128% after positive findings from a Phase 2 trial evaluating Nanobody(R) sonelokimab in patients with moderate-to-severe hidradenitis suppurativa, a painful long-term dermatological condition
• BiondVax’s NanoAbs address psoriasis and a broad range of other diseases, and with a potentially better safety profile based on administration directly into lesions, rather than MoonLake’s systemic-administration

The global dermatology pharmaceutics market was valued just over $20 billion in 2022 and is expected to surge to nearly $40 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 8.91% during the forecast period (https://ibn.fm/A974K). Dermatology uses pharmaceuticals to control and treat numerous conditions that affect the skin, hair, nails, and more.

BiondVax Pharmaceuticals (NASDAQ: BVXV), an innovative biotechnology company focused on developing, manufacturing, and commercializing potential blockbuster immunotherapeutic products primarily for the treatment of infectious and autoimmune diseases, is developing a pipeline of unique nanosized antibody (NanoAb) therapies addressing diseases underserved by current treatments with large growing markets – including dermatological conditions such as psoriasis.

MoonLake Immunotherapeutics (NASDAQ: MLTX), a BiondVax competitor, recently reported positive results from its Phase 2 clinical trial evaluating Nanobody(R) sonelokimab in patients with moderate-to-severe hidradenitis suppurativa (“HS”), a painful long-term dermatological condition characterized by the occurrence of inflamed and swollen lumps that significantly limit many everyday activities. The MIRA trial (M1095-HS-201) recruited 234 patients and is the first randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial to use Hidradenitis Suppurativa Clinical Response (“HiSCR”) 75 as its primary endpoint, a higher measure of clinical response versus the HiSCR50 measure, which is commonly used in other clinical trials – representing a landmark milestone in the treatment of HS. The result, according to SeekingAlpha, was a stock jump of 128% (https://ibn.fm/Kc1XO).

The biological target of MoonLake’s Nanobody is the human immune system cytokine IL-17. IL-17 is implicated in several diseases. It’s important to remember that MoonLake’s MIRA trial does not pertain to psoriasis but rather to the indication of the orphan disease HS whose market is much smaller. BiondVax is initially targeting IL-17 for treatment of psoriasis, where the market size for therapeutics is expected to reach $44 Billion by 2031. The company’s plan for the IL-17 nanobody also includes addressing diseases like HS, psoriatic arthritis, and other large markets. BiondVax also intends to use IL-17 in mild-to-moderate psoriasis patients, which comprise a higher number of patients compared to the smaller segment of severe patients targeted in a previous MoonLake’s trial.

In addition, unlike MoonLake’s nanobody formulation, BiondVax’s NanoAbs do not require the conjugation of two antibodies with a linker and do not require albumin attachment, making BiondVax’s therapy easier and cheaper to produce. While MoonLake’s nanobody exhibited a favorable safety profile, BiondVax’s therapies are designed to be injected directly into psoriatic lesions, and therefor are expected to provide an even better safety profile than systemic therapies like MoonLake’s.

MoonLake’s success proves how hungry the market has become for nanobody therapies that target IL-17. Moonlake’s market value was $1.8 billion at the end of the Phase 2 trial, a clear indicator that BiondVax has massive potential to grow exponentially.

BiondVax works in collaboration with the prestigious Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences (“MPG”) and the University Medical Center Göttingen (“UMG”), both in Germany, and research teams have verified a strong affinity by the NanoAbs to their biological target molecules and exceptionally high thermostability. These NanoAbs have also demonstrated strong neutralization by several candidates – which BiondVax will continue to explore as it develops its pipeline for various underserved indications.

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

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

• McEwen Mining, an asset-rich diversified gold and copper producer that owns a 52% stake in McEwen Copper, recently released the results of an updated Preliminary Economic Assessment (“2023 PEA”)
• The 2023 PEA documented, among others, an updated independent mineral resource estimate and a base case development strategy that is distinctly different from that proposed in the 2017 PEA
• The recent PEA proposes the development of an open pit mine with crushing, heap leaching, and solvent extraction and electrowinning (“SW/EW”) facilities to process the mined materials, producing copper cathodes that meet LME Copper Grade A quality standards
• The updated development strategy is expected to reduce fresh water consumption by ~75%, electricity consumption by ~75%, and greenhouse gas emissions by ~57%
• McEwen Mining is confident that once implemented, the proposal will make the Los Azules copper cathodes attractive to end users looking to measurably reduce their upstream environmental impacts

As industries seek to decarbonize and transition toward net zero, electrification ranks among the top strategies being considered and implemented. A cornerstone of these efforts, copper is garnering interest, with forecasts showing that demand will double to 50 million tons by 2050 from 2020 levels (https://ibn.fm/xprgL). Chief among the drivers is that copper is an essential raw material used to manufacture components and equipment for energy generation and transmission, digital applications, and electronics. In fact, according to Shehzad Bharmal, Chairman of the International Copper Association (“ICA”), “Copper is the catalyst at the heart of the energy transition, with two-thirds of the technologies for decarbonization requiring coppers as a core component” (https://ibn.fm/HcmPs).

In line with the decarbonization efforts and amid the surging demand, some copper producers are working to reduce the environmental impacts of their activities to potentially make themselves and/or their products attractive to environmentally-conscious downstream customers and/or investors. The consciousness around companies’ environmental footprint has also roped in companies like McEwen Mining (NYSE: MUX) (TSX: MUX), an asset-rich diversified gold and copper producer with operations in Nevada, Canada, Mexico, and Argentina, and its 52%-owned McEwen Copper subsidiary.

McEwen Mining recently released the results of an updated Preliminary Economic Assessment (“2023 PEA”) on the 100% McEwen Copper-owned Los Azules Copper Project in San Juan, Argentina, documenting an updated base case development strategy, which is starkly different from that presented in the previous PEA published in 2017, as well as an updated independent mineral resource estimate (https://ibn.fm/mNXPs).

On its part, the 2017 PEA selected a strategy that proposed the construction of a mine with a conventional mill and flotation concentrator that produces a concentrate primarily for export to international smelters. In contrast, the 2023 PEA proposes a Phase 1 implementation strategy that includes the development of an open pit mine with crushing, heap leaching, and solvent extraction and electrowinning (“SW/EW”) facilities to process the mined materials, producing copper cathodes that meet London Metals Exchange (“LME”) Copper Grade A quality standards for sale in Argentina or international markets.

The selection of the updated implementation strategy rode on three primary principles, chief among them the environmental footprint. Compared to the conventional milling and treatment strategy in the 2017 PEA, the proposed heap leach project is set to reduce fresh water consumption by approximately 75% (from 600 to 150 L/s) and electricity consumption by about 75% (from 230 to 57 MW). The updated strategy is also expected to reduce Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas (“GHG”) emissions by approximately 57% from 1,560 to 670 CO2e/t Cu. McEwen Copper is also considering paths to further reduce GHG emissions by implementing new technologies, with the goal of reaching net-zero carbon by 2038 with some offsets. One of these paths might be the potential deployment of Nuton(TM), a portfolio of proprietary copper bio-heap leach-related technologies.

Last August, McEwen Copper and Nuton LLC, a Rio Tinto Venture, entered into a collaboration agreement to test the viability of Nuton(TM) (https://ibn.fm/vD2i9). According to the press release announcing the results of the 2023 PEA, Nuton(TM) provides a “significant opportunity to optimize the mine plan and the overall mining and processing operations. In addition, Nuton(TM) provides other significant benefits, such as lower overall energy consumption, allowing earlier conversion to renewable energy sources, and lower water consumption than conventional sulfide mineralization treatment processes.”

However, McEwen Copper does not currently have a commercial agreement with Nuton that sanctions the deployment of the technologies at the Los Azules Project. Still, the two companies intend to work in good faith toward such an agreement, although there is no guarantee that it will come to fruition.

McEwen Copper is nonetheless still positioned to make remarkable progress through the implementation of its proposed strategy, the additional efforts and potential agreement notwithstanding. The company is confident this strategy will make the Los Azules copper cathodes attractive to end users looking to measurably reduce their upstream environmental impacts.

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

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

• Starco Brands partners with AMC to offer Whipshots(R) Vanilla or Lime flavors to cocktails at 250+ theatres across the United States
• Partnership to include “Whip It, Beaches” campaign spot before selected films and imagery throughout theaters
• Whipshots earned several awards, including Beverage Dynamics’ 2023 “Rising Star Award”, 2023 SIP Innovation Award, and four medals at the DB & SB Spring Blind Tasting segment of the 2023 Global Spirits Masters Competition
• Starco Brands 2022 year-end financial statements revealed a 1,060% revenue increase to $7.8 million
• Other Starco Brands products include Kobe Bryant’s Art of Sport premium athletic body care line, Skylar hypoallergenic perfumes, Winona Pure(R) air-powered popcorn spray, and the Soylent line of nutrient-enriched food products

Movie fans aged 21 and over can now add a dollop of Whipshots(R) Vanilla or the new limited-edition lime flavor to cocktails at 250+ AMC Theatres nationwide. Developed by Starco Brands (OTCQB: STCB) in partnership with global artist Cardi B, Whipshots is luxury whipped cream enhanced with a 10% premium vodka kick. Also available in mocha and caramel, the wildly popular boozy whipped cream has sold over 2 million cans since 2021, making it one of the largest product launches that year.

“We are thrilled to bring the iconic sense of fun and excitement of Whipshots to AMC Theatres, allowing moviegoers all over the country to celebrate summer and blockbuster movies with Whipshots,” says David Dreyer, Chief Marketing Officer of Starco Brands, Inc. “Having our ‘Whip It, Beaches’ campaign shown on the big screen is a huge milestone for the brand, and we look forward to offering our product to even more audiences.”

“Whip It, Beaches” was launched earlier this summer to Cardi B’s 168+ million Instagram fans with a 30-second video and images showcasing the limited-edition lime flavor in daiquiris, mojitos, and margaritas. The partnership with AMC further celebrates the “Summer of Whipshots” with images throughout the theatres and campaign spots on the big screen before selected films.

Whipshots has lit up social media and gained legions of fans since its launch, receiving 170+ million views for the #whipshotsreview on Tiktok alone. The product has also received significant industry recognition, including the “Rising Star Award” in Beverage Dynamics’ 2023 Growth Brands Awards, the 2023 SIP Innovation Award, and four medals at the DB & SB Spring Blind Tasting segment of the 2023 Global Spirits Masters Competition.

Whipshots is unique, ground-breaking, and truly new – characteristics shared by all products in Starco Brand’s portfolio. Billed as an “invention factory,” the company identifies gaps in eight consumer categories and fills them by either inventing or acquiring novel products with unique attributes that spark excitement and change behaviors. In addition to creating ground-breaking products like Whipshots, the company has pursued an aggressive M&A strategy to acquire iconic brands, resulting in a staggering 1,060% revenue increase to $7.8 million by year-end 2022.

Other products in Starco Brand’s portfolio include The Art of Sport premium athletic body care line co-founded by basketball legend Kobe Bryant, Skylar hypoallergenic perfumes, Winona Pure(R) air-powered popcorn spray, and the Soylent line of nutrient-enriched products, known as the “world’s most perfect food”.

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

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