• BiondVax is a biotechnology company focused on developing, manufacturing, and commercializing innovative immunotherapeutic products
• The company is developing nanosized antibodies (“NanoAbs”) addressing large market diseases underserved by current treatments, with its lead candidate targeting COVID-19
• The FDA recently revoked the sole authorization of a COVID prophylactic, Evusheld, citing the inability of the monoclonal antibody cocktail to neutralize emerging subvariants of the Omicron variant
• BiondVax’s lead NanoAb candidate shows superior advantages to monoclonal antibodies, with the data gathered strengthening the value proposition of the COVID-19 NanoAb as a safe, efficacious, and convenient therapeutic and prophylactic drug

The Food and Drug Administration (“FDA”) recently withdrew the authorization of AstraZeneca PLC (NASDAQ: AZN)’s Evusheld, a combination of two monoclonal antibodies (“mAbs”), which was being marketed as a pre-exposure prophylaxis to prevent COVID-19 infection among people with moderate to severe immune compromise (https://ibn.fm/zmmHn). The agency revoked the authorization citing the expectation that Evusheld may not neutralize the XBB.1.5 sub-variant of the Omicron variant. In fact, according to the FDA, sublineages not neutralized by the antibody therapy are presently causing at least 90% of infections.

Evusheld’s cancellation is the latest in a series of withdrawals, with the FDA having previously revoked the authorization for emergency use of bebtelovimab, another monoclonal antibody therapy, because it was not expected to neutralize Omicron subvariants BQ.1 and BQ.1.1 (https://ibn.fm/IhUqw).

“Beyond Evusheld, the virus’s evolution has also left the country without any antibody therapies for patients once they are infected,” reads an article in Stat News (https://ibn.fm/Vm5sL). However, BiondVax Pharmaceuticals (NASDAQ: BVXV), a Jerusalem-based biotechnology company focused on developing, manufacturing, and commercializing innovative immunotherapeutic products, is working on changing this grim reality. In fact, the company’s leading inhaled nanosized antibody (“NanoAb”) candidate, which is currently being prepared for clinical trials, has shown neutralization of all relevant Omicron subvariants.

“Indeed, the emergence of new variants remains a concern, and NanoAb therapeutics have the potential to quickly and effectively address new variants,” wrote CEO Amir Reichman in his 2022 letter to shareholders (https://ibn.fm/uOpcQ). “Our collaborators at the Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences (“MPI”) and the University Medical Center Göttingen (“UMG”) have generated libraries each with ~300 million COVID-19 NanoAb candidates, as compared to mAb libraries that contain only thousands of options. Thus, as new variants emerge, we would expect to be in a position to rapidly develop a new neutralizing NanoAb.”

With the cancellation of these monoclonal antibody therapies, originally authorized to help protect high-risk populations from the ever-evolving SARS-COV-2 virus, the value of BiondVax’s NanoAb-based COVID-19 therapeutic currently under development has never been clearer.

Developed in collaboration with Germany-based MPI and UMG, the alpaca-derived NanoAbs have demonstrated unique characteristics such as greater formulation advantages, stability at high temperatures, and binding affinity than mAbs. Moreover, NanoAbs have shown strong potential for superior clinical outcomes, safety, and patient convenience at lower costs than mAbs, which have generated billions in annual commercial sales.

In fact, BiondVax’s ongoing preclinical in vivo study is convincingly demonstrating the unique capabilities of its inhaled COVID-19 therapy. As reported by the company in November 2022, animal models treated with BiondVax’s inhaled NanoAbs experienced a milder and shorter illness (https://ibn.fm/FTm6x). The company also announced early January 2023 that the inhaled therapy virtually eliminated the SARS-CoV-2 virus from the animal models’ lungs (https://ibn.fm/2GKAy). In the most recent announcement, BiondVax reported its inhaled therapeutic virtually prevented illness when administered prophylactically. Obviously, this data strengthens the value proposition of the COVID-19 NanoAb as both a therapeutic and prophylactic drug.

“COVID vaccine uptake is declining, effectiveness wanes over a short period of time, and vaccination campaigns demand vast health care system resources. We believe the additional ‘biobetter’ value provided by our NanoAb potentially positions it to capture significant market share both for treatment and prevention of COVID-19 illness,” commented Reichman in a January 23 news release reporting the prophylactic properties of the NanoAbs (https://ibn.fm/YpEYG).

BiondVax aims to fill the existing void in COVID prophylactics and treatments, which, as sales figures indicate, is strong. AstraZeneca, for instance, reported that Evusheld had generated $1.451 billion in revenue from Q1 through Q3 2022 (https://ibn.fm/UPZ8M); and even with its limitations, Paxlovid, an antiviral medication developed by Pfizer Inc. (NYSE: PFE), generated $18.9 billion in sales in 2022 (https://ibn.fm/6sOdX).

BiondVax’s NanoAbs may be the key to an effective, economical, and easy to use solution for COVID therapeutics and prophylactics. With human clinical trials scheduled for later this year it certainly makes sense to keep BVXV on the radar.

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

• 2022 saw Lexaria introduce its patented DehydraTECH(TM) technology to world-leading collaborators while also exploring DehydraTECH-CBD for the potential treatment of hypertension
• It also saw success in its research for the potential treatment of conditions such as epilepsy, making the year Lexaria’s most active one yet
• Significant progress was made on key objectives in 2022, a feat which the company plans to capitalize on and leverage to scale up the commercial execution of its technology in 2023
• To facilitate this, Lexaria has brought on board Julian Gangolli, former President of GW Pharmaceuticals USA, as a strategic advisor. Chris Bunka, Lexaria’s CEO, anticipates 2023 to be the “best year ever”

Lexaria Bioscience (NASDAQ: LEXX), a global innovator in drug delivery platforms, has set its focus on the commercial execution of its robust patented DehydraTECH(TM) technology portfolio for the 2023 calendar year. The company plans to capitalize on the success of 2022, which saw the fulfillment of primary objectives.

In 2022, Lexaria introduced DehydraTECH to world-leading collaborators and explored DehydraTECH-processed CBD for the potential treatment of hypertension. The company also saw success in its research for the potential treatment of conditions such as epilepsy making the year Lexaria’s most successful yet (https://ibn.fm/RjEtt). The progress made sets the stage for the company to explore even bigger goals in 2023.

So far, animal studies have demonstrated a propensity for DehydraTECH technology to elevate the quantity of drug delivered across the blood-brain barrier by as much as 1,900% (https://ibn.fm/ktR7j). In addition, in the recent EPIL-A21-1 clinical study on the use of DehydraTECH-CBD for the potential treatment of epilepsy, the technology demonstrated performance enhancements, particularly compared to one of the world’s leading anti-seizure medications, Epidiolex(R).

This, and other findings over the course of 2022, validated Lexaria’s efforts and clinical trials, reflecting the company’s commitment to addressing current underserved medical needs. It is this commitment that the company intends to pursue in the new year in what Chris Bunka, the CEO, anticipates to be the “best year ever.”

Lexaria now has its eyes set on scaling up the commercial execution of its technology. To facilitate this, it has brought on board Julian Gangolli as a Strategic Advisor. Gangolli, the former President of GW Pharmaceuticals USA, will lend his knowledge and expertise, having overseen the approval by the US Food and Drug Administration (“FDA”) of Epidiolex, the first and only pure cannabidiol (“CBD”) drug ever approved by the regulating body.

“I am excited to be advising Lexaria Bioscience as it has become an established force in the field of improved drug delivery,” Julian noted.

“As with GW Pharmaceutical’s innovations in the cannabinoid field, the potential of Lexaria’s disruptive drug delivery technology is significant and I hope to assist Lexaria in its commercial development of DehydraTECH for multiple applications,” he added (https://ibn.fm/BlYaX).

Gangolli has also previously served as the North American President of Allergan and a member of their executive management team that oversaw the sale of Allergan to Actavis back in 2015, and has served as a senior member of the Allergan management team since 1998, helping to transform the company into one of the leading specialty pharmaceutical companies in the United States.

“I am very pleased to welcome Julian, with his extensive pharmaceutical experience, to the broadening Lexaria team,” noted Mr. Bunka.

With Julian’s help, Lexaria looks to achieve FDA Registration for an Investigational New Drug (“IND”) program that will kickstart a Phase 1(b) FDA-registered clinical trial exploring the safety and tolerability of DehydraTECH-CBD as a treatment for hypertension. This, the company projects will dominate the second half of the 2023 calendar year, even as the company works toward the filing of a new drug application (“NDA”) via the abbreviated 505(b)(2) pathway.

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

• SideChannel Inc. is a cybersecurity services and technology provider that assists small- to medium-sized businesses unable to budget for full time on-site cybersecurity staffing
• SideChannel supplies virtual chief information security officer (“vCISO”) expert services on a contract basis at an expense that is lower than the cost of regular full-time CISO staffing
• SideChannel CEO noted the importance of SMB network security protocols in a recent CISOlife podcast, specifically in regard to cannabis operations that are often small and cash-rich without significant cyber protections in place
• Growing economic uncertainty is expected to increase the number of SMBs that may fall under the cybersecurity poverty line at a time when hybrid work models utilizing greater numbers of remote work access employees is increasing

Following the turbulent years of dodging and then dealing with COVID in business environments, a large number of companies are regularizing hybrid workplace models that incorporate remote access as a job feature worthy of ad promotion. Unfortunately, this approach is also capable of letting bad actors wreak havoc on a company’s operations.

Businesses below the cybersecurity poverty line, in particular, run the risk of seeing operations upended if hackers gain access to vital company data or operational technology (“OT”), since many entities such as smaller businesses, non-profits, and local government agencies, may let security slide, as they feel they lack the capital and employee acumen necessary to maintain a secure computer network.

Cybersecurity services and technology provider SideChannel (OTCQB: SDCH) helps such companies overcome budget limitations through outsourcing network security responsiveness. SideChannel’s virtual chief information security officer (“vCISO”) services allow companies to hire cybersecurity experts on a short-term contract basis that is less expensive than retaining a full-time in-house CISO.

SideChannel CEO Brian Haugli highlighted the importance of CISO services in the cannabis industry, as one example, in a recent episode of Haugli’s periodic CISOlife podcast.

“I’m seeing that the cannabis sector, in what it’s doing, where it’s going, is going to need to start really taking a hard look at the security posture of its own operations to secure its product, its supply chain, as well as its future,” Haugli said after outlining cannabis operations’ reliance on automation to manage many vital functions and communicate data to management (https://ibn.fm/AtEKw).

“You need to be able to control access to these (network processes), otherwise any type of bidirectional access into your OT environment is going to cause you problems,” Haugli added. “What happens if you’re dependent on light, and now light is turned off. Or watering is impacted, or the wrong strain is being followed and you distribute the wrong inventory to the wrong area. These can all cause very real problems.”

As a retailer, a cannabis outlet is vulnerable to all the same cyber risks as other product sellers. When the third-party delivery contractor for the monopoly wholesaler of adult-use marijuana in Canada’s most valuable market was hit by a cyber attack in August, delivery orders were temporarily suspended, stores fretted about inventory and whether important data was exposed (https://ibn.fm/MkkQg).

Radiant Logic CISO Chad McDonald told cybersecurity journal CSO that the cybersecurity poverty line will be defined in 2023 as company teams’ ability to cope with challenges along three major axes – ongoing digital transformation, continued migration to the cloud, and the movement towards zero trust.

“As we verge on the edge of recession, the cybersecurity poverty line will only grow in 2023,” he stated (https://ibn.fm/Vypx4). “It is a rather unique time for the IT landscape and one that past generations have never experienced.”

Haugli noted that most OT professionals will state that companies should, at a minimum, have segmentation between the front office and back office operations within the OT environment, which he applied specifically to the cannabis industry.

“If I’m a CISO, I’m looking for this type of microsegmentation,” he said. “I’m looking at specifically the security of these (cannabis operation) sensors, the access to these sensors, where the data is going and who’s using and how the data is being used.”

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

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

• Both gold and copper have seen significant increases in market value in recent months, and copper is forecast to be one of the best-performing of all commodities in 2023, based upon increased demand and projected shortages
• McEwen Mining is a majority shareholder of McEwen Copper, which owns the Los Azules copper deposit in Argentina, one of the largest undeveloped copper projects in the world
• McEwen Copper plans to update its PEA (preliminary economic assessment) during Q1 2023, follow with IPO during Q2, and complete the Feasibility Study in 2024

Historically, gold has been a staple in investment portfolios due to benefits like diversification and a lack of correlation with investments, retaining value during volatile periods. Despite the volatility in the gold market early in 2022, by the end of the year it was on the rise again, increasing 17% to reach its highest level since April 2022 (https://ibn.fm/05zpL). Denmark’s Saxo Bank suggests that gold could hit record highs in 2023, with three key factors to consider: the increasing “war economy mentality,” governments increasing deficit spending on ambitious projects, and the possibility of a global recession in 2023.

McEwen Mining (NYSE: MUX) (TSX: MUX), an asset-rich diversified gold and silver producer with large exposure to copper through its subsidiary, McEwen Copper, is led by a management team with extensive knowledge and experience in the mining space and owns and operates in some of the most prolific gold producing regions in the Americas. Many current gold and copper forecasts point to higher prices over the next few years. Should that occur McEwen Mining’s assets positions it well to benefit.

A key factor for investors is that McEwen Mining’s management team is uniquely aligned with investor interests. Rob McEwen, the company’s CEO, has a 17% ownership stake in McEwen Mining and a 15% ownership in McEwen Copper, with a combined cost base in the companies of roughly $220 million. McEwen Mining has a 68% stake in McEwen Copper, which is expected to be a game changer, as it owns one of the world’s 10 largest undeveloped copper deposits, the Los Azules Project. Given its large size and future production profile it could become the next copper unicorn.

Like gold, copper has been one of the best-performing commodities.

McEwen Copper’s other copper project is the Elder Creek Project in Nevada, prospective for porphyry copper and gold mineralization, well situated in a district hosting several large copper and gold mines, including Marigold, Lone Tree, and Phoenix. Kennecott Exploration, a subsidiary of Rio Tinto, will be the operator of the exploration program, with McEwen Mining holding a 1.25% net smelter return royalty on the property.

In August 2022, McEwen Copper closed its private placement offering of $82 million after securing a $25 million investment from mining giant Rio Tinto’ technology division, Nuton LLC. At the time, this $10/share offering gave the company an imputed value of $258 million. It provided the funds to update the PEA (preliminary economic assessment) for the Los Azules Project which is considered one of the world’s top 10 undeveloped copper projects. McEwen Copper plans to release the PEA and then do an IPO during H1, 2023. The IPO will fund a Feasibility Study that is expected to be completed in Q1, 2025. McEwen Mining owns a 68% interest in McEwen Copper.

McEwen Mining is designing the Los Azules Project to be a profitable long life copper mine, that is environmentally sensitive, technologically advanced, able to achieve a net zero carbon footprint and use significantly less water than existing copper mines.

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

• For over 30 years, Coyuchi has provided sustainable luxury home goods made from 100% organic cotton materials
• Coyuchi is a founding member of the California Cotton & Climate Coalition, using cotton grown on farms that have transitioned to Climate Beneficial practices which are believed to help increase resilience to drought, counter erosion, and benefit the climate
• The company’s future plans include expanding its catalog to include more sustainable products that cater to environmentally-conscious consumers

For three decades, Coyuchi, the gold standard in sustainable luxury home goods, has been driven by four foundational pillars – protecting the planet, innovating circular design, sustainable living, and community enrichment. Coyuchi’s line of products includes luxury organic bedding, sheets, towels, apparel, and other home goods, which are produced using 100% organic cotton materials. With a seasoned leadership team, a robust e-commerce shopping experience, and a healthy customer base, Coyuchi is preparing to enter a new phase of growth as the world awakens to sustainability at scale.

The global organic cotton market was valued at $518.7 million in 2020. By 2028, this market is expected to reach $6.7 billion, growing at a CAGR of 40%. The market for organic cotton is driven by growing concerns over sustainability and pollution worldwide. Customers motivated by sustainability are willing to pay more for products that meet their objectives (https://ibn.fm/U0w3U).

In an interview, Marcus Chung, Chief Operating Officer of Coyuchi, discussed transparency being a key component of Coyuchi’s business structure. After working with supply chains at many companies, Chung discussed how Coyuchi’s transparency is unique – built into its supply chain – including tracing fibers all the way back to organic farm groups, which is important when developing new products (https://ibn.fm/hWlS1).

Coyuchi also focuses on circularity, which is an important component of the company’s commitment to sustainability. The company was the first home textiles brand to launch a resale business in 2017 through its second Home Renewed line, initially offered exclusively through a pilot at its Point Reyes Station location. Coyuchi’s Full Circle Blanket uses post-consumer waste, which is recycled into new cotton yarns for the product. Since late 2020, the Home Renewed line has been available online through its online store, www.Renewed.Coyuchi.com.

Coyuchi is a founding member of the California Cotton & Climate Coalition and is excited about their Climate Beneficial cotton collection, which is made from cotton grown on farms that have transitioned to Climate Beneficial practices. The company believes that this method of farming is important to combatting climate change and has the potential to sequester carbon from the atmosphere and regenerate the health of the soil – which can help increase resilience to drought, counter erosion, and benefit the climate. Through the initiative, Coyuchi is bringing to market a collection using fibers from the first harvest.

In the future, Coyuchi plans to add new markets and products to its consumer offering. “Our customer is asking Coyuchi to help curate an assortment of natural and sustainable items for their whole home,” Chung explained. “We’re looking at solutions like natural laundry detergents that will complement products like our wool dryer balls – useful products that help extend the life of their home textiles that customers have come to count on us.”

Coyuchi continues pushing the organic textile market forward through its circular initiatives and supporting cross-industry sustainability. The company is differentiating itself through an omnichannel and circular business model, which has proven to be a clear draw for customers. Coyuchi’s early adoption of e-commerce sales and marketing approach has resulted in a significant portion (80%) of sales coming directly from the Coyuchi website. Coyuchi’s strengths are changing the landscape of how consumers obtain the sustainable products they are seeking.

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

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

• GPS-enabled location device developer MetAlert provides geographical tracking technology that is discrete and functional through shoe inserts that provide data connectivity to cognitive patient caregivers
• MetAlert announced in January that it is expanding the reach of its SmartSole flagship product through an agreement with Sweden’s government that was established by distribution partner Posifon AB
• Government agencies across Europe and in the United States have recognized the importance of being able to monitor the whereabouts of patients with cognitive concerns
• MetAlert’s development team has improved the SmartSole with a battery capable of lasting up to five days, and the company plans to roll out its -Plus model later this quarter with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi capability for enhanced data monitoring of falls and other medical concerns

Wearable tracking and health monitoring device developer MetAlert (OTC: MLRT) provides relief to the world’s elderly and medical patients prone to confusion through the company’s flagship product — an insertable shoe insole equipped with tech that transmits vital information about the wearer to caregivers.

Initially designed to track the location of individuals prone to wander, MetAlert’s innovative GPS-enabled SmartSole units have, through continued development, gained the capacity to provide location-specific information in indoor, home environments through a Wi-Fi connection in its soon-to-debut -Plus model. And a Bluetooth link to other wearable medical devices will allow the -Plus model to transmit a wider variety of health-related data to caregivers when it rolls out later in the quarter.

The SmartSole has recently been upgraded with five days of battery life, and its geographical reach has expanded as well with the recent announcement that it will provide a key part of affiliate Posifon AB’s authorized service in Sweden through a national service agreement with the country’s major municipalities.

“We are excited to launch this next generation 4G Cat M1 GPS SmartSole in one of Europe’s most advanced healthcare countries when it comes to addressing the needs of Alzheimer and Dementia patients,” MetAlert Director Andrew Duncan stated in the company’s Jan. 25 announcement (https://ibn.fm/XPE63). “Our partner Posifon has done an incredible job in securing national distribution channels after many years of trials and evaluation by the Swedish authorities.”

MetAlert’s technology promotes lifestyle wellness and independence for patients who have become more vulnerable to critical conditions and would therefore be more likely to be reliant on assistance from others at any given hour. Posifon’s service agreement will allow it to provide home care, personal tracking, and security for seniors at healthcare organizations that include memory care clinics, hospitals and social care organizations across Sweden. Posifon Managing Director, Henrik Essunger, said he anticipates further expansion from Sweden across Scandinavia and Europe.

While countries such as Germany have historic concerns about individuals’ privacy as a result of government monitoring policies under the Nazi and Communist regimes, others such as Norway have codified laws requiring local governments to provide GPS-based tracking in device purchases for people who are in need, according to a report on MetAlert by multinational IT industry standards agency BCS (https://ibn.fm/2pfTF).

Tracking technology for individuals with cognitive issues is now supported by local Alzheimer Associations and multiple police, search and rescue organizations in over 40 countries, according to the report.

The SmartSole-Plus’ Wi-Fi connectivity will narrow the focus by helping to monitor for patient falls within their quarters, and the Bluetooth hub function will allow medical caregivers to use it for monitoring diabetes, heart, and other conditions as necessary.

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

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

• It is not only the environment that is threatened by greenhouse gas (“GHG”) emissions but human health; some sources of carbon emissions released from staple home appliances such as gas stoves also produce toxic pollutants that can exacerbate asthma, a recent study shows
• While electrification can slash GHG, it also increases pressure on the aging grid and blackouts are growing in frequency; for many homeowners, an answer can be to get off the grid
• GeoSolar’s SmartGreen(TM) Home system uses natural energy sources from the sun and ground to electrify homes without any fossil fuels; offers solutions that can improve indoor air quality and health of residents while increasing energy independence and reducing home’s carbon footprint

GeoSolar Technologies (“GST”) looks at another promising opportunity as more and more evidence surface about the harmful effects of GHG emissions not only on the environment but on human health as mounting evidence emerges that gas stove pollution can cause health problems such as asthma (https://ibn.fm/Gdbq2). The company’s SmartGreen(TM) technology combines solar, geothermal, and other green systems in an innovative package that improves indoor air quality and the health of the residents while reducing or eliminating carbon emissions. Moreover, this patent-pending system helps homeowners increase energy independence while slashing–or even eliminating–utility bills that millions of Americans have seen soaring as of late.

Industry and transportation are the usual suspects as the biggest culprits for pollution and climate change. But, while these two bear the brunt of emissions, what often flies under the radar among the public is that the residential sector ranks high on the list of largest environmental offenders. It is the world’s sixth-biggest carbon emitter. In the US, homes create 20% of the total carbon pollution (https://ibn.fm/zGCJf).

When it comes to greenhouse emissions, everything counts–even how people go about everyday living, including cooking. That’s why gas stoves have become a hot topic. Recent research indicates that cooking with gas in apartments leads to high levels of pollutants that not only damage the environment but are harmful to human health. When methane, or natural gas, burns, it sets in motion a chemical reaction that creates pollutants collectively known as nitrogen dioxides (“NOx”), which often lie at the root of many cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, including asthma. Generated in the kitchen, these harmful gasses spread throughout the house, leading to excess concentrations in other rooms. The latest study published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health in December concluded that 12.7% of childhood asthma in the U.S. is attributable to gas stove use. But it’s not all doom and gloom. The study went on to show that a 35% reduction in daily NOx concentrations is possible when homeowners shift from gas to electric.

As a result of this increased focus on the health impact of gas stoves, the government is looking at changing regulations to protect both people and the environment, while introducing generous incentives through the Inflation Reduction Act for swapping out older stoves. If it’s known that 38% of U.S. households use a gas stove–and the number gets closer to 70% in some states like California and New Jersey – it’s clear that there are a lot of gas stoves to be replaced by electric alternatives.

While electrification is an essential component of climate action, it brings its own challenges. As the move toward electrifying everything from cars to kitchens shows no sign of slowing down, the load on the grid will continue to put increasing pressure on what seems to be an already frail power system (https://ibn.fm/CNV5g). When soaring heat combines with skyrocketing energy prices, it creates a disastrous combination that puts immense strain on the country’s electricity grids. With power interruptions doubling between 2015 and 2020, frequent blackouts have grown to become a reality for millions of Americans (https://ibn.fm/CKBnl).

For many homeowners, an answer can be to get off the grid. Companies like GeoSolar Technologies, a Colorado-based climate technology company, can help with their specialty in eco-friendly home systems that help reduce – or even eliminate – the dependence on the electricity grid. GeoSolar Technologies helps homeowners in their efforts to maximize energy efficiency, improve air quality, reduce utility bills and grow their home value.

The company has developed the SmartGreen(TM) Home system that uses natural energy sources from the sun and ground to heat, cool, and electrify homes without any fossil fuels. The house’s electricity generation starts from rooftop solar panels. The heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system (“HVAC”) then utilizes a geothermal unit that pumps air through pressurized pipes using an electric heat pump – a device that is up to 5x more energy efficient than conventional heating systems (https://ibn.fm/U8YDp) – while a proprietary air purifying helps keep the air inside the home safe and healthy. The company claims that practically every home, both new construction and existing house, is a good candidate to become a SmartGreen(TM) home.

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

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

• Arizona Metals owns two highly compelling properties in Arizona, the Kay Mine Project and Sugarloaf Peak
• The company had $58 million in cash at the end of Q3, enough to complete its ongoing Phase 2 drilling program, as well as a large Phase 3 program to continue building the resource at the Kay Mine Deposit, and explore around it for additional deposits
• The latest drill results provided more compelling data, including discovery of a new gold/copper zone and extension of known mineralization

The U.S. mining industry produced $90.4 billion in non-fuel metals in 2021, with Arizona being the single-largest producer on a percentage bases, outshining neighbor Nevada as the only two states to command double-digit share at 11.0% and 10.3%, respectively. Arizona is widely known for its copper and gold prowess, contributing a whopping 71% of the nation’s copper production in 2021. If Arizona Metals (TSX: AMC) (OTCQX: AZMCF) has anything to say about it, the state will continue its dominance for decades to come as it unearths a world-class gold/copper/zinc VMS (volcanogenic massive sulfide) deposit.

The Toronto-based company owns 100% of the Kay Mine Project in Yavapai County, which is located on a combination of patented and BLM claims totaling 1,300 acres that are not subject to any royalties. The deposit is known to be a steeply dipping VMS deposit defined from a depth of 60 meters to at least 900 meters, remaining open on strike and at depth.

An historic estimate by Exxon Minerals in 1982 at the Kay Mine Project reported a proven and probable reserve of 6.4 million short tons at a grade of 2.2% copper, 2.8 g/t (grams per ton) gold, 3.03% zinc, and 55 g/t silver.(1) Miners and explorers cannot rely on historic estimates and Arizona Metals is currently working on verifying the resource, as well as adding to it via expansive drilling programs.

The company also owns 100% of the Sugarloaf Peak Property, in La Paz County, which is located on 4,400 acres of BLM claims. Sugarloaf is a heap-leach, open-pit target and has a historic estimate by Westworld Resources in 1983 of 100 million tons containing 1.5 million ounces gold at a grade of 0.5 g/t.(2)

As of the end of September, Arizona Metals had $58 million in its coffers, fully funding its exploration plans, including completing the balance of an ongoing 8,500-meter Phase 2 program and an upcoming 76,000-meter Phase 3 drilling program at its flagship Kay Mine Project. The drilling will test numerous parallel targets heading west of the Kay Mine Deposit, as well as possible northern and southern extensions.

On January 17, 2023, Arizona Metals said that the step-out drilling located 300 meters north and on strike at the Kay Mine Deposit intersected a new zone of copper-gold VMS mineralization at depths between 150-600 meters vertically below surface. The new zone is open in all directions.

Drilling is already underway to test for extensions and widening of the mineralization.

Arizona Metals also released results for six holes drilled at Kay, comprised of three infill and three extension holes. The detailed report was highlighted by multiple intercepts.

Hole KM-22-93, part of the North Strike Extensions Drilling, cut four separate intervals of VMS mineralization at a depth of 470-610 meters, including 4.5 meters at a grade of 1.8% copper equivalent (CuEq); 2.0 meters grading 1.5% CuEq; 4.6 meters grading 0.8% CuEq; and 1.2 meters grading 2.7% CuEq.

This hole is about 300 meters below hole KM-22-30, which hit 3.0 meters grading 1.1% CuEq. It is also 400 meters below KM-22-33, which intersected 1.2 meters grading 4.2% CuEq, to extend the strike at the northernmost drill intercept at the deposit by about 300 meters.

Arizona Metals CEO Marc Pais said that the latest batch of drill results, “confirm our opinion that the Kay Mine Deposit is potentially part of a much larger mineralized system, typical of what is encountered in other VMS camps around the world.”

Mineralization remains open in all directions around these intercepts.

Hole KM-22-81B, part of Kay Mine Deposit Drilling program, intersected 3.8 meters grading 10.7% CuEq from 750 meters. This is a step-out hole to the south, which extended mineralization about 50 meters south of hole KM-21-52A along the southern edge of the Kay Mine Deposit.

Furthermore, the company has begun the first tests around the Central Target, which has produced encouraging results, evidenced by “numerous markers typically associated with VMS deposits.” Drilling will continue to provide a better understanding of the mineralization at the target.

Elsewhere at the project, road construction is well underway to reach drill locations that will test the Western Target, located 1,200 meters west of the Kay Mine Deposit. Drilling is targeted to begin this quarter.

According to Pais, “Work will continue at the Kay Mine Deposit to define an initial resource, in conjunction with associated hydrological, rock geochemistry, metallurgical, and specific gravity studies, but we anticipate that over the next 18 months approximately 90% of our budget will go towards exploration south, north, and west of the Kay Mine Deposit.”

(1) The historic estimate at the Kay Mine Deposit was reported by Exxon Minerals in 1982. The historic estimate has not been verified as a current mineral resource. None of the key assumptions, parameters, and methods used to prepare the historic estimate were reported, and no resource categories were used. Significant data compilation, re-drilling and data verification may be required by a “qualified person” (as defined in National Instrument 43-101 – Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects) before the historic estimate can be verified and upgraded to be a current mineral resource. A qualified person has not done sufficient work to classify it as a current mineral resource, and Arizona Metals is not treating the historic estimate as a current mineral resource.

(2) The historic estimate at the Sugarloaf Peak Property was reported by Westworld Resources in 1983. The historic estimate has not been verified as a current mineral resource. None of the key assumptions, parameters, and methods used to prepare the historic estimate were reported, and no resource categories were used. Significant data compilation, re-drilling and data verification may be required by a qualified person before the historic estimate can be verified and upgraded to a current mineral resource. A qualified person has not done sufficient work to classify it as a current mineral resource, and Arizona Metals is not treating the historic estimate as a current mineral resource.

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

Full Disclosure: Arizona Metals Corp. is an InvestorBrandNetwork marketing client.

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

• Ucore currently owns REE mining projects and advanced separation technology
• Commercial demonstration of the company’s RapidSX(TM) technology is ongoing
• Ucore plans several modern REE refineries in North America, with the first SMC slated to begin construction in Louisiana in 2023. This planned REE separation and rare earth oxide production plant is scheduled to process 2,000 tons of total rare earth oxides by the end of 2024, increasing to 5,000 tons in 2026
• Through its strategic partnerships with Kingston Process Metallurgy Inc., Mech-Chem Associates Inc. and other supporting contractors and vendors, Ucore is developing a North American REE supply chain

Ucore Rare Metals (TSX.V: UCU) (OTCQX: UURAF) is engaged in Rare Earth Element (“REE”) resource development and in commercializing its critical metals separation technology, RapidSX(TM), for the mining and metals extraction industry. The company is guided by principles of environmental, social and corporate governance (“ESG”) with a focus on disrupting China’s current dominance of the U.S. REE supply chain.

Ucore’s vision is to become a leading advanced technology company providing best-in-class metal separation products and services to the mining and mineral extraction industry. It plans to aid in the development, through strategic partnerships, of a North American REE supply chain controlled by the U.S. and its allies.

The company intends to contribute to this initiative through the near-term development of a heavy and light rare-earth processing facility in Louisiana and subsequent development of Strategic Metals Complexes (“SMCs”) in Alaska and Canada, as well as through the longer-term development of its 100%-owned Heavy Rare Earth Element (“HREE”) mineral resource property at Bokan Mountain on Prince of Wales Island, Alaska.

Ucore is headquartered in Halifax, Nova Scotia.

Projects & Technology

RapidSX(TM) Demonstration Plant

The Kingston, Ontario, RapidSX(TM) Demonstration Plant commissioning process is underway. Once commissioned, the plant is designed to demonstrate the commercial capabilities of the RapidSX technology platform.

The RapidSX demo plant will show:

• The techno-economic advantages of the RapidSX technology platform
• The processing of tens of tons of heavy and light mixed rare earth element 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 demo plant is located within Ucore’s 5,000-square-foot RapidSX Commercialization and Demonstration Facility and is run by its laboratory partner, Kingston Process Metallurgy Inc. (“KPM”).

RapidSX(TM) Technology

Innovation Metals Corp., acquired by the company in 2020, developed the RapidSX separation technology platform with early-stage assistance from the United States Department of Defense, later resulting in the production of commercial-grade, separated rare earth elements at pilot scale.

RapidSX 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, as well as potentially lowering capital and operating costs. SX is the international 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.

Utilizing similar chemistry to conventional SX, RapidSX is not a “new” technology, but it represents a significant improvement on the well-established, well-understood, proven conventional SX separation technology preferred by REE producers.

Strategic Metals Complex

Ucore, engineering partner Mech-Chem Associates Inc. and KPM are developing the full-scale engineering for the company’s first Strategic Metals Complex (“SMC”). The SMC is a planned REE separation and rare earth oxide production plant slated to commence construction in Louisiana in 2023. It is scheduled to initially process 2,000 tons of total rare earth oxides by the end of 2024, increasing to 5,000 tons in 2026.

Bokan-Dotson Ridge REE Deposit

Ucore has invested over C$35 million to establish and validate the Bokan-Dotson Ridge resource in preparation for mine design and permitting. Initial drilling is complete, and a Preliminary Economic Assessment has been issued. Next steps for the project include a feasibility study, detailed mine design and permit acquisition. The project can be “near shovel ready” for construction in less than 30 months after receipt of the next stage of development funding.

Market Opportunity

According to a report by Grand View Research, the global rare earth elements market was valued at $2.8 billion in 2018 and is forecast to reach a value of $5.6 billion by 2025, achieving a CAGR of 10.4% during the period. Market growth is driven by increasing demand for these elements in the manufacturing of magnets and catalysts for the automotive industry. Rising demand for electric vehicles to reduce CO2 emissions is expected to propel the use of permanent magnets in the production of EV batteries.

China is the major producer and consumer of REEs. To maintain self-sufficiency and to meet future demand, China has been raising the export tariffs on rare earth elements shipped to various countries, including the U.S., Japan, India, Brazil and the European Union. This led to the current supply-demand gap in these countries, as they rely on imports from China.

China reduced the exports of REEs by 72% in the second half of 2010 to preserve its reserves of these elements and continues to export REEs at reduced levels, thereby affecting industries such as automotive, oil and gas, and electronics, which require an ample amount of rare earth elements.

Management Team

Pat Ryan, P.Eng., is Chairman and CEO of Ucore Rare Metals. He began as a director with the company when he developed a heightened interest in critical metals. Before joining Ucore, he founded and led a multimillion-dollar automotive OEM design and lean manufacturing company. His understanding of complex supply chains across international markets has led to a prime positioning as the global auto industry transitions to vehicle electrification. He holds a Bachelor of Engineering degree from Dalhousie University.

Peter Manuel is Vice President and CFO of Ucore. Prior to joining the company, he practiced as a Chartered Accountant for more than 17 years, providing consulting services to companies in a range of industries, with a focus on the financial services and resource sectors. He spent 10 years in England and Ireland providing assurance, strategic planning, corporate finance and other consulting services to a portfolio of both public and private entities. He holds a Bachelor of Commerce Degree from Dalhousie University.

Michael Schrider, MEng, P.E., is Vice President and COO of Ucore. He is a multidisciplinary engineer who has been involved in manufacturing, engineering and managing complex structural and mechanical systems projects since 1989. He was the Founder, President and Chief Engineer of Schrider & Associates and Alton Bay Design, both engineering services firms. He holds a bachelor’s degree in naval architecture and marine engineering from the University of New Orleans and a master’s degree in mining, geological and geophysical engineering from the University of Arizona.

Mark MacDonald is Vice President of Investor Relations at Ucore. He has over 25 years of experience implementing award winning business development and marketing programs at regional and national levels. As Vice President of Sales, he was responsible for Mediapro Communication’s growth as AT&T Canada’s leading B2B sales partner. He subsequently became Atlantic Regional Vice President of AT&T Canada Corp. He holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree from Dalhousie University.

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

• Correlate has, since its inception, remained committed to increasing energy efficiency, while minimizing upgrade costs, for commercial real estate
• In a recent interview, Jim Florentino, Correlate’s Vice President of Sales, gave insights into the inner workings of the company, its history, and his role therein
• He reiterated the company’s commitment to implementing advanced technologies and workflow processes while trying to break the old habits that have made this industry stagnant and slow-moving
• Florentino also noted that given the company’s commitment to building long-term sustainability planning and driving NPO for its customers at every phase, Correlate sits right at the impetus of property owners and business paths to net-zero goals and sustainable operations

Correlate Infrastructure Partners (OTCQB: CIPI), a tech-enabled development, finance, and fulfillment platform for distributed energy solutions across North America, has remained committed to reducing costs, improving comfort, and increasing energy reliability for home, work, and commercial commerce, while eliminating the adoption barriers to net-zero carbon goals. Having started with its first offering that allowed for the remote audit of buildings and designing energy optimization without the involvement of on-site engineers and auditors, the company has grown to offer industry-leading energy solutions and a financing platform for the industrial and commercial sectors.

In a recent interview, Jim Florentino, Correlate’s Vice President of Sales, gave insights into the company’s inner workings, the firm’s history, and his role therein. Of note was his introduction into the clean tech space back in 2008 as a residential HVAC systems designer and salesperson, a role that would allow him to cross paths with Todd Michaels, Correlate’s President and CEO. After staying in touch over several years, he jumped at the opportunity to build upon the strengths of the team that Todd has built, ultimately molding the company into what it is today (https://ibn.fm/7mYrv).

Florentino noted that Correlate is committed to implementing advanced technologies and workflow processes while trying to break the old habits that have made this industry stagnant and slow-moving.

“We approach each day with a disruptive mindset of scaling energy project development by using great solution technologies, partner organizations, and industry-leading standards, all while making an important global impact toward decarbonization,” he noted.

He also emphasized the importance of the company culture, pointing out Correlate’s ubiquitous use of workflow and communications platforms to keep constant dialogue and collaboration happening in real time. This, he noted, comes with its share of challenges, the main one being the lack of awareness and dangers associated with the current electrical grid. To expound on that, he highlighted that the decentralization of the company’s power systems and networks needs all sides of the table to work in coordination, thereby streamlining the installation of microgrid technologies that would help address the massive issue of electric grid instability.

Florentino expressed his optimism in the company building long-term sustainability planning and driving Net Operating Income (“NOI”) for its customers at every phase. He also highlighted the positive reception of its tech-enabled development work in a remote environment that removes high engineering expenses. This, he reckoned, validated Correlate’s methodology of using data and intelligence to expedite large corporate portfolio carbon reduction initiatives, allowing the company to make a huge impact and do so quickly.

“Correlate not only aims to be a solution to the problem in the years to come, but we also sit right at the impetus of property owners and business’ paths to net zero goals and sustainable operations,” noted Florentino.

“To me, that’s a really good place to be,” he added.

So far in the new year, Correlate has partnered with global stored energy solutions leader, EnerSys(R) (NYSE: ENS), to improve its carbon footprint in its Pennsylvania headquarters (https://ibn.fm/rPFda). It is also aggressively pushing its offerings to help clients improve their environmental, social, and governance (“ESG”) profiles, especially given the growing interest by investors in backing such efforts. These moves define Correlate as the undisputed industry leader and a key player in renewable energy.

For company information, visit the company’s website at www.CorrelateInfra.com, including the following:

• Breaking Down Barriers To Your ESG Goals While Generating Additional Net Operating Income: www.CorrelateInfra.com/our-process
• Platform Generates New Rent And Operating Income, Allowing You To Meet Your ESG Goals: www.CorrelateInfra.com/program

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