• SuperCom recently released its second quarter and first half 2023 results for the period ended June 30, 2023
• Financial highlights included a 141% YoY increase in quarterly revenue and a 126% YoY increase in half-year revenue to $7.7 million and $14.1 million, respectively
• The company reported a 106% increase in trailing-twelve-month revenue to $25.5 million from $12.4 million
• SuperCom provided business highlights, documenting its recently awarded contracts and projects in Europe (Romania, Finland, and Iceland) as well as in the US
• President and CEO Ordan Trabelsi credits the company’s investments in research and development as well as sales and marketing for its ability to land global opportunities and displace incumbents

SuperCom (NASDAQ: SPCB), a global provider of traditional and digital identity solutions, providing advanced safety, identification, Internet of Things (“IoT”), connectivity, and security solutions to governments and private and public organizations globally, recently released its financial and operating results for the three and six months ended June 30, 2023, as well as financial highlights for the trailing-twelve-month period (https://ibn.fm/7seN6).

“We are excited to announce breakthrough performance for Q2 2023, where we outperformed expectations on multiple fronts. Our efforts have catapulted us to new heights, realizing a substantial 141% year-over-year (“YoY”) revenue growth, as well as record-breaking quarterly revenue of $7.7 million and non-GAAP earnings per share (“EPS”) of $0.07. Furthermore, this quarter closes an exceptional trailing twelve-month period boasting $25.5 million in revenue and $2.5 million in EBITDA, underscoring our focus on sustained growth and profitability,” said SuperCom President and CEO Ordan Trabelsi.

SuperCom celebrated a fourth consecutive quarter of high YoY revenue growth, reporting a 141% increase in revenue to a five-year record of $7.7 million, up from $3.2 million recorded in Q2 2022. Its gross profit for this reporting period grew 77% to $2.3 million from $1.3 million. The company also ended the quarter with working capital of $21.2 million. Furthermore, results from the just-ended quarter contributed to half-year revenue of $14.1 million for the first half of fiscal 2023, a 126% YoY increase from $6.3 million, as well as a gross profit of $3.9 million, representing an increase YoY of 47% from $2.6 million.

Other notable highlights included a 106% YoY increase in trailing twelve-month revenue to $25.5 million from $12.4 million. In his address to shareholders during a conference call held July 31, 2023, Trabelsi attributed this growth to the IoT division, the company’s “primary growth engine” (https://ibn.fm/3QY0O). Putting things into perspective, Trabelsi said, “While the global electronic monitoring market grows at approximately 11% per year, SuperCom’s IoT revenue achieved over 100% growth in the past twelve months, outpacing the global market growth by over a multiple of 10x. This growth is a testament to the fact that the market prefers our solution over alternatives.”

SuperCom also provided business updates, discussing the recently awarded contracts and projects worldwide. The company, the press release stated, is well on track with the implementation of a $33 million national electronic monitoring (“EM”) project in Romania, which covers domestic violence protection, GPS tracking of offenders, and home detection monitoring and uses the company’s PureSecurity EM Suite. 

In Europe, the company has deployed the PureSecurity EM Suite in Finland as part of a national project with the national government, covering programs such as GPS tracking, house arrest, and inmate monitoring. The project, launched in Q1 2023, is valued at $3.6 million. SuperCom has also launched a new project in Iceland.

Moreover, the company’s wholly-owned subsidiary, LCA, won a $4.25 million contract to provide adult reentry services in a county in Northern California, US. The project, which began in Q1 2023 and expanded LCA’s existing EM and day reporting services to include community-based and jail-based sites, is actively servicing clients and generating recurring revenue, according to the company.

SuperCom also celebrated other milestones, including the completion of the development and multiple successful deployments of PureProtect, its life-saving domestic violence monitoring solution, and the launch in various regions of the US of PureOne, its best-in-class all-in-one GPS tracking ankle-bracelet monitoring solution. SuperCom is prioritizing the expansion of PureOne into new markets and geographies.

“SuperCom’s proprietary technology has been a game-changer in competitive tenders worldwide, enabling us to displace incumbent vendors and make a significant impact on public safety around the globe. Our steadfast commitment to technology superiority is evident in our recent incorporation of AI capabilities into our products, along with the continuous launch of innovations such as the recent PureProtect and PureOne solutions. These efforts propel our business growth and solidify our path toward industry leadership,” Trabelsi explained.

According to Trabelsi, the company’s investments in research and development as well as sales and marketing have paved the way for global opportunities, enabling it to deliver exceptional value to its growing list of clients while turbocharging its resolve to meet its long-term objectives.

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

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

Counterculture retail professionals, business executives, researchers, and industry leaders, are invited to attend Alternative Products Expo to be held in Las Vegas from September 14-16, 2023.  Dedicated to promoting creativity, the much-awaited event will be focused on eco-friendly solutions and alternative products. The Expo is set to engage audiences with a wide range of unique and sustainable products that signify the latest trends and technological advancements.

The Expo aims to empower participants to make informed buying decisions while contributing to a progressive, more sustainable future. By showcasing a wide range of ethically sourced and environmentally friendly alternatives, the Expo is about creating a socially responsible community that aligns with technological innovations and sustainable best practices.

Alternative Products Expo will feature a diverse group of eco-conscious entrepreneurs, business leaders, and innovators, providing insights into the intricacies of sustainable products while enlightening attendees about market potential and current opportunities.

Innovation meets Sustainability

Alternative Products Expo promises to provide an immersive experience through engaging workshops, enlightening exhibits, and best-in-class networking opportunities. Attendees will get a unique opportunity to meet industry leaders and learn from their experience spanning a range of industries, including renewable energy, vaping, beverages, and more.

Experience the blend of creativity and sustainability as top industry leaders showcase their collections. From fair trade practices to upcycled materials, the Expo will reveal unique, game-changing ideas that drive innovation in style. Business owners will exhibit their newest products, challenging the boundaries and redefining innovation.

Thought-provoking seminars and workshops will enable attendees to learn about the latest innovations in the alternative products industry, from zero-waste packaging to renewable energy solutions.

To learn more, please visit https://ibn.fm/21jUz

GolfLync, the innovative social media networking platform designed exclusively for golf enthusiasts, is ushering in a new era for the golfing community with its groundbreaking feature, Virtual Golf Clubs(TM) (“VGC”). This cutting-edge addition to the app empowers golfers to connect, share experiences, and create thriving golfing communities, making GolfLync the go-to destination for passionate golfers across the United States.

The Evolution of Golfing Communities

Golf has always been a sport that fosters camaraderie and social connections. Traditionally, golfers would come together at local golf courses and clubs, forming tight-knit communities based on their love for the game. With the rise of social media, golfers began exploring digital spaces to extend their connections and share their golfing journeys.

Enter GolfLync – a game-changing platform that took the concept of golfing communities to the next level. Formerly known as Groups, the newly rebranded Virtual Golf Clubs(TM) feature elevates the experience by offering a more focused and immersive golfing environment.

Discovering Local Golf Communities and Clubs

Virtual Golf Clubs(TM) now allow members to effortlessly find local golf communities and public golf clubs in their area. Whether a golfer is new to a city, seeking a fresh community, or eager to explore new golfing opportunities, VGC offers an easy-to-use interface that connects users with like-minded individuals sharing the same passion for the sport.

The Rise of GolfLync – The Leading Social Media Platform for Golfers

GolfLync’s impact on the golfing community has been nothing short of extraordinary. With thousands of golfers joining the platform from all states and major cities in America, GolfLync has cemented its position as the leading social media application exclusively tailored for golfers.

GolfLync founders realized this early on and have recently trademarked the Virtual Golf Clubs(TM) name and rapidly started expanding VGC features, including feeds allowing club members to post pictures, videos and score cards, multiple Tee Times that notify other members of the club to join, and integrated chat between all members of the VGC.

The platform’s remarkable growth has even caught the attention of influencers from other social media platforms. Influencers are now transitioning to GolfLync to become Virtual Golf Clubs(TM) hosts, creating an environment where golfers can access a higher-quality golf-focused experience, with exclusive insights and tips from their favorite influencers.

Creating Engaged Golfing Communities

At the heart of Virtual Golf Clubs(TM) is the promise of vibrant and thriving golfing communities. Users can seamlessly connect with fellow golf enthusiasts, share insights, and plan exciting golf outings together. Whether golfers are seeking casual rounds, competitive matches, or even new golfing buddies, VGC ensures they find the perfect match for their golfing adventures.

An All-in-One Platform

GolfLync’s holistic approach to social golfing sets it apart from traditional social media applications. The platform combines advanced social media-styled feeds with intelligent algorithms that recommend relevant Virtual Golf Clubs(TM) based on users’ locations, interests, and golfing proficiency, including factors such as handicap and preferred playing style.

An Exciting Future for GolfLync

As GolfLync continues to revolutionize the social golfing experience, the platform’s dedication to innovation and user satisfaction remains unwavering. With the launch of Virtual Golf Clubs(TM), GolfLync has solidified its position as a pioneering social media platform exclusively designed to cater to the diverse needs of golfers.

The future of golfing communities is here, and it’s called Virtual Golf Clubs(TM). Golf enthusiasts and investors alike are invited to explore the world of GolfLync and be part of this exciting golfing revolution. For more information about GolfLync and its cutting-edge offerings, visit the official website at www.GolfLync.com and experience golfing like never before.

For more information about GolfLync, visit GolfLync, download the app, and connect with community on Facebook, X and LinkedIn.

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

• For the quarter ended June 30, 2023, RVLP reported net sales of $8.3 million and operating expenses of $14.4 million, down 2% and 32%, respectively, compared to the prior year period; this strategy is designed to extend cash runway for future business development and changes in the company’s marketing mix
• The company’s marketing partner, Santen, has commenced the required registrational trial for UPNEEQ(R) in Japan and plans to begin the same in China in 2023
• UPNEEQ(R) has strong U.S. intellectual property protection, with patents extending to 2039
• RVL Pharmaceuticals launched its prescription ecommerce platform, Elevate, in July 2023, allowing providers and patients to purchase RVL products and sign up for auto-refills
• UPNEEQ(R) consumer awareness remains very low among U.S. adult women, presenting a major opportunity to increase awareness and demand through Direct-to-Consumer efforts

RVL Pharmaceuticals (NASDAQ: RVLP) is a specialty pharmaceutical company focused on the commercialization of UPNEEQ(R) (oxymetazoline hydrochloride ophthalmic solution), 0.1%, which is available by prescription for the treatment of acquired blepharoptosis, or low-lying eyelid(s), in adults.

UPNEEQ(R) (RVL-1201) is the first non-surgical treatment option approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for acquired blepharoptosis. The company received FDA approval in July 2020 and launched UPNEEQ(R) in September 2020 to a limited number of eye care professionals, with commercial operations expanded in 2021 among ophthalmology, optometry, and oculoplastic specialties.

In February 2022, UPNEEQ(R) was launched into the medical aesthetics market in the United States. Patients can purchase UPNEEQ(R) from eye care or medical aesthetic professionals, or through RVL Pharmacy LLC, the company’s wholly owned pharmacy. The company plans to promote UPNEEQ(R) to people with acquired ptosis and those who are bothered by low-lying lids. RVL Pharmaceuticals believes there is a significant commercial opportunity for UPNEEQ(R), given the meaningful unmet need for a non-invasive treatment across millions of acquired-ptosis patients in the United States. The company’s near-term focus is to continue the rollout of UPNEEQ(R) into the medical aesthetics market through its dedicated aesthetics sales force while continuing to support ongoing utilization and expanded penetration of UPNEEQ(R) in ocular medicine markets.

RVL Pharmaceuticals continues to raise patient and physician awareness of acquired ptosis and UPNEEQ(R) through medical conferences, HCP and DTC advertising, social media (e.g., Facebook and Instagram), and marketing partnerships.

The company is incorporated in Ireland and headquartered in Bridgewater, New Jersey.

UPNEEQ(R)

UPNEEQ(R) is an oxymetazoline hydrochloride ophthalmic solution for the treatment of acquired blepharoptosis, or low-lying eyelid(s), in adults. It is the first and only FDA-approved ophthalmic solution for this indication.

The once-daily UPNEEQ(R) eye drop has been shown in clinical trials to result in an average one-millimeter lift of the upper eyelid, and to improve superior visual field in patients with a functional deficit. Patients’ eyelids demonstrate lift in as little as five minutes post dose, with the lift effect lasting as long as eight hours. The preservative-free solution is safe and well-tolerated. Trials demonstrated side effects similar to those of placebo.

The active ingredient in UPNEEQ(R) is oxymetazoline 0.1%, a direct-acting α-adrenergic receptor agonist that targets receptors in the Müller’s muscle, which causes the muscle to contract and lift the upper eyelid. UPNEEQ(R) delivers eye-opening results for patients along the entire spectrum of age and condition severity.

UPNEEQ’s health care provider customers include optometrists, ophthalmologists, oculoplastic surgeons, facial plastic surgeons, dermatologists and a broad range of practitioners qualified to diagnose and treat acquired blepharoptosis in adults.

The target patient population comprises adults with droopy or low-lying eyelids, the majority of whom are female. While the exact prevalence of acquired ptosis is unknown, RVL Pharmaceuticals believes it to be a common age-related condition.

Market Opportunity

A survey of eye care providers and medical aesthetics specialists revealed that they believe that approximately half of adult patients visiting their practices are affected by droopy or low-lying eyelids. Further, the company estimates that approximately 60% of adult women self-identify as having some degree of droopy or low-lying eyelids, and a majority of those women indicate that they are bothered by the position of their eyelids.

The global medical aesthetics market is expected to reach a value of $18 billion in 2027, rising at a compound annual growth rate of over 10%, with North America representing the largest share of the global market. Similarly, the global eye care market is expected to reach a value of $86 billion by 2026, rising at a compound annual growth rate of over 6%. An estimated 100 million adults visit an eye care provider each year in the United States alone.

RVL Pharmaceuticals believes the growth in medical aesthetics and eye care markets will be driven by an aging population and increasing life expectancy, which is resulting in more consumers with a desire for improved appearance and well-being over a longer period of time. Other contributing factors include rising disposable income globally and in the U.S.; growing awareness, utilization, and acceptance of elective or minimally invasive and non-invasive interventions; and continued innovation and improved accessibility to treatments due to an increase in the number of physicians who offer eye care and medical aesthetics services.

Management Team

Brian Markison is Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of RVL Pharmaceuticals. He has more than 30 years of operational, marketing, commercial development, and sales experience with international pharmaceutical companies. He previously served as the President and CEO of Fougera Pharmaceuticals Inc., a specialty pharmaceutical company. Before that he was Chairman and CEO of King Pharmaceuticals Inc. He also held various senior leadership positions at Bristol-Myers Squibb. He received a bachelor’s degree from Iona College.

James Schaub is Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of RVL Pharmaceuticals. Prior to that he served as COO of Trigen Laboratories. He previously was Vice President, M&A of Fougera Pharmaceuticals. Before that he spent five years with King Pharmaceuticals. Mr. Schaub holds a bachelor’s degree in economics from Middlebury College and an M.B.A. from Rutgers Business School.

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

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

• Combination of advanced AI machine learning technology and proven immunotherapy technology seen as “future of medicine”
• Demonstrated success that both companies have shown with their innovative developments is expected to expand synergistically
• Potential applications against variety of cancers

The announcement of a binding and exclusive letter of intent to merge, between two of the most innovative companies in their respective fields, is seen as representing a potentially transformative step in the fight against cancer. Considering Renovaro BioSciences (NASDAQ: RENB), an advanced, pre-clinical biotechnology firm in cell, gene, and immunotherapy, that has already demonstrated significant results with its technology against pancreatic cancer, and GEDi Cube, with an AI, machine learning technology that has validated earlier diagnoses of lung cancer in humans, already expanding to 12 additional cancers, combining the companies is being seen as pointing to the future of medicine.

The technology multiplier effect of combining powerful advanced AI processing and machine learning capabilities, and proven leading-edge immunotherapy technology, lifts the fight against cancer to a new level. The success that both companies have shown with their innovative developments is expected to expand synergistically.

Regarding Renovaro, “Dr. Anahid Jewett is a leading cancer immunotherapy researcher at UCLA who has conducted independent, pivotal studies with Renovaro’s technology in different animal models. She has consistently demonstrated 80% to 90% pancreatic tumor reduction in size and weight that was correlated with significant enhancement of key aspects of the immune response” (https://ibn.fm/sZfWp).

Craig Rhodes, CEO of GEDi Cube International Ltd. “GEDi Cube’s remarkably innovative technology developed over nearly a decade has already validated earlier diagnoses of lung cancer in humans at a leading university hospital and created the technology for 12 additional cancers, including pancreatic and breast cancer.”

Regarding the two companies joining forces, Dr. Mark Dybul, Renovaro CEO, said. “Our advanced cell, gene and immunotherapy techniques are designed to reinvigorate the body’s natural tumor-fighting mechanisms. I believe joining forces with GEDi Cube could enhance the efficacy of our upcoming trials and speed up the discovery of novel treatment approaches, thereby extending our life-saving technology to more cancer patients and renewing hope for them and their families.”

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

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

• Through its “Growth as a Service” offering, XESP is making technology implementation easier and more effective
• Its Digital Engagement Engine(TM) allows it to achieve greater reach and lift, affording companies the ability to maintain control of their content while creating meaningful relationships with new customers and revenue streams
• This technology’s potential has seen XESP tap into growth in the conversational commerce market, offering meaningful conversations to end users through a combination of automation and cutting-edge data analysis, facilitating business growth and driving up engagement

Electronic Servitor Publication Network (OTC: XESP), a market disruptor for B2B companies using advanced data analysis and smart technology, is driving up a unique value proposition to improve client outcomes. The company’s understanding of technology, its potential and its current role in facilitating positive customer relationships and influencing business growth has earned it a significant competitive edge over its peers. The company is targeting a bigger share of the global customer engagement solutions market, set to be valued at $32.2 billion by 2027 (https://ibn.fm/GJ4bK).

Recently, there has been a massive uptake of technology, specifically artificial intelligence (“AI”), in business circles. In 2022, the global AI market was valued at $136.55 billion, estimated to grow to $1.81 trillion by 2030. This expected growth is primarily attributed to the mounting investments in AI technologies, its competitive advantage, and the potential digital disruption it represents. For further context, AI is expected to contribute to the world economy over the current output of both India and China combined by 2030 (https://ibn.fm/2JNID).

XESP understands the current direction, and through its offering, it is advancing the technologies and helping businesses harness their potential and realize their goals in the process. Through its “Growth as a Service” offering, the company is making technology implementation borderline effortless, allowing business owners to focus on their brands, core product offerings and content creation while it manages the technology and outcome.

Of note is its Digital Engagement Engine(TM), which leverages a combination of automation, unique data management, and a modern workflow founded on microservices architecture. This technology provides XESP clients with greater reach and lift for and complete control of their content. The technology also provisions data that allows clients to learn and predict audience interests and trends.

With XESP’s Digital Engagement Engine (TM), businesses can offer their customers personalized connections that result in higher conversions and a better customer experience. They can also keep their data current with little to no intervention, which is often linked to higher customer retention and higher customer satisfaction. With 75% of business owners noting that AI will play an important role in the future of their brands, XESP has positioned itself strategically in the market, and its Digital Engagement Engine(TM) is well-placed to offer value for its existing and potential clientele.

The potential of XESP’s Digital Engagement Engine(TM) has seen it tap into the growth of conversational commerce, which has proven to be the future of marketing. The company can offer meaningful conversations to end users through automation and cutting-edge data analysis, unique data management, and a modern workflow, ultimately facilitating business growth and driving up engagement.

“The Digital Engagement Engine overlays with the [conversational marketing and omnichannel content publication] tool to ensure that you are having a co-created conversation that is meaningful to the individual user rather than a one-size-fits-all,” noted Peter Hager, XESP’s CEO. “That meaningful interaction drives a greater relationship with your audience and trust. Ultimately, it drives greater growth in your organization and, very simply put, replicates what you do face-to-face. And if we can do that online, which the Digital Engagement Engine helps you do, you’re going to produce better results,” he added (https://ibn.fm/enLnL).

XESP understands the value of its offering. In addition, it is cognizant of companies’ increasing awareness of the trends in AI and conversational marketing. As such, the company seeks to take over the market and assert itself as the undisputed market leader through its unique market positioning and offering. Its management has expressed confidence in its trajectory while sharing its optimism about where the company is headed. This reflects its commitment to improving client outcomes and creating shareholder value.

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

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

• Lexaria’s NIC-H22-1 study proved that its patented DehydraTECH(TM)-nicotine tobacco-free pouch was statistically significantly faster-acting than alternatives
• The study, which involved 36 participants, embraced a randomized, double-blind, cross-over study design
• It also affirmed Lexaria’s product superiority while also showing DehydraTECH’s potential

Lexaria Bioscience Corp. (NASDAQ: LEXX), a global innovator in drug delivery platforms, just released results from its 2023 human oral nicotine study NIC-H22-1. Of note was its patented DehydraTECH(TM)–nicotine tobacco-free pouch product superiority, particularly when pitted against world-leading brands ZYN(R) and on!(R). The study proved that Lexaria’s product was statistically significantly faster than the two alternatives in the median time required to reach comparable maximum nicotine concentrations (“Tmax”) levels (https://ibn.fm/aV8AU).

Lexaria’s CEO, Chris Bunka, lauded his team for this achievement, especially considering they had to work without as many resources as global multi-billion-dollar behemoths. He also lauded the company’s technology, citing its potential and advantages, as demonstrated in the study.

“This is a remarkable achievement that speaks to the capabilities of the DehydraTECH technology and also to the Lexaria R&D team, working ardently with scarce resources relative to global multi-billion-dollar behemoths,” he noted (https://ibn.fm/aV8AU).

Several intriguing data trends were observed from the study. For one, most of the subjects reported that they felt euphoric at all time points when they used Lexaria’s product. Lexaria also got the highest endorsement score, with statistical significance demonstrated at the second dosing visit. The highest percentage of users reporting that they considered the experience “pleasurable” at the 30-minute mark were also Lexaria users, and the company also scored best on the enjoyment scale.

Negative effects, meanwhile, such as nausea and severe hiccups were experienced more by the mass-market products than by the Lexaria formulation.

The study embraced a randomized, double-blind, cross-over study design involving 36 participants, all long-time heavy cigarette smokers who smoke at least ten cigarettes a day. Subjective effects, both positive and adverse, were assessed at baseline, 5 minutes, 30 minutes, and 120 minutes using a questionnaire to capture 25 different effects. All laboratory procedures for the study were conducted entirely by U.S.—based, third-party independent contract service providers (https://ibn.fm/aV8AU).

The results from this study not only validate Lexaria’s efforts but also affirm its product superiority while also showing DehydraTECH’s potential. This is a tremendous achievement for the company, given that this has been achieved in just five years. It reflects the company’s commitment to making the world a better place and its resolve to create value for its shareholders.

“We’ve always had an overwhelming determination and fierce conviction that we can make the world a better place and reduce the carnage caused by smoked cigarettes, and now we have human study data that demonstrates the advantages of DehydraTECH processed nicotine relative to the competitive landscape,” noted Mr. Bunka (https://ibn.fm/aV8AU).

For company 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

• Electronic Servitor Publication Network is a technology-oriented digital engagement and activation company
• The company has developed and is commercializing its Digital Engagement Engine(TM), which helps companies elevate digital content and drive better digital interactions within current and new communities
• Customer experience experts agree that companies need to embrace technologies to maximize customer satisfaction and methodically cultivate superior end-to-end CX capabilities
• Using its sophisticated technology stack, employed as a managed service, XESP helps companies build end-to-end capabilities that allow them to win and maintain customers in the present, while capturing future opportunities

Customer experience is the process of measuring, analyzing, enhancing, and delivering superior customer interactions with a brand or business (https://ibn.fm/LC8zk). As such, companies need to pay attention to the full customer experience (“CX”) in order to unlock short-term profitability and also build long-term sustained advantage. This is seen as requiring a carefully crafted and orchestrated CX approach, a survey by consulting firm BCG reveals (https://ibn.fm/TjfW6).

BCG, which interrogated digital transformations at major organizations globally, established that companies leading in CX created 55% more value, recorded 190% higher revenue growth, and witnessed 70% higher customer loyalty than competitors that did not invest in CX. Furthermore, according to the survey, the CX landscape is changing, driven by data and digital transformation, increasing investments in the space, and the growing recognition of the value CX holds as a source of competitive advantage and a strategic differentiator.

With this in mind, BCG recommends business should strive to “reimagine their approach to operations, talent and technology with the customer as a starting point” and harness data, artificial intelligence (“AI”) and AI-powered automation, personalization, and other technologies to maximize customer satisfaction. Moreover, companies should “methodically cultivate end-to-end capabilities that allow them to win customers in the present and capture new opportunities in the future.”

Broadly speaking, there is a consensus of opinion around the value of CX, with experts echoing or supplementing the findings of the BCG report. On her part, Jeannie Walters, an award-winning customer experience professional, observes that business leaders can leverage automation and technology to provide excellent customer experiences while adapting to challenges caused by inflation, labor shortages and supply chain disruptions.

“Customers are looking for personalized experiences,” writes Walters in an article in CMSWire (https://ibn.fm/2FZyf). “By leveraging technology, businesses can offer personalized experiences and improve customer satisfaction rates. For instance, businesses can use chatbots to provide quick and efficient customer service, or they can use data analytics to better understand customer needs and preferences.”

The consistent message within this space is that companies need to build a robust infrastructure, use reliable technology, and develop strong processes that foster a deeper understanding of customers, improve their execution of customer interactions, and drive innovation. And this is where Electronic Servitor Publication Network (OTC: XESP), a managed service digital engagement and activation company, comes in.

A market disruptor for B2B companies using cutting-edge technology to reach their target markets, XESP has developed and is commercializing its Digital Engagement Engine(TM), which combines automation, unique data management and microservices architecture to elevate digital content and drive better digital interactions within current and new communities. The company anchored the development of the Digital Engagement Engine(TM) in data analysis and smart technology, creating a tech stack that can identify even the narrowest of niches within clients’ respective target markets, tailor content to meet their exact needs, and deliver the content to them right when they need it.

Remarkably, XESP’s approach is not lifted from the conventional CX playbook; it is rather unique. And as the company CEO Peter Hager explained in an interview with Proactive (https://ibn.fm/LppE0), this uniqueness is responsible for making the company good at what it does. “We just took an immense amount of focus on what happens when you’re not face to face with your customers. Many people look at the customer experience as a face-to-face [interaction] or just the brand, but they haven’t really followed the journey of the customer when they’re not face to face,” explained Hager.

XESP resolved to tackle the underlying problem by creating a system that allows client companies to sense and respond to what their users and customers are looking for when interacting with them digitally. This approach, according to Hager, created an edge.

By using Electronic Servitor Publication Network’s sophisticated technology, which the company employs as a managed service, client companies do not need to continually add tools, services or personnel to achieve growth through new or existing products and services. In fact, XESP’s service functions with and at a level above a company’s existing personnel, programs and infrastructure. XESP helps companies build end-to-end capabilities that allow them to win customers in the present and capture new opportunities in the future.

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

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

• Lexaria’s human oral nicotine study, NIC-H22-1, comparing world-leading brands and the company’s DehydraTECH(TM)-Nicotine tobacco-free pouch, reported positive results, including higher pleasurable effects and reduced negative effects
• A new patent has been granted to Lexaria and is strategically important to the company’s oral nicotine sector research and development efforts
• Lexaria continues to research diabetes control and weight loss with its DehydraTECH(TM)-CBD, announcing favorable animal study results and the intent to develop a human clinical study

Lexaria Bioscience (NASDAQ: LEXX, LEXXW), a global innovator in drug delivery platforms, has announced updates regarding its patented DehydraTECH(TM) technology – which improves the way that active pharmaceutical ingredients (“APIs”) enter the bloodstream by promoting healthier oral ingestion methods and increasing the effectiveness of fat-soluble active molecules. Lexaria’s primary focus for DehydraTECH research and development includes advancements of product candidates across key segments, including nicotine replacement, diabetes control and weight loss, and hypertension.

The company’s most recent announcement reported results from its 2023 human oral nicotine study NIC-H22-1, comparing Lexaria’s DehydraTECH(TM)-Nicotine tobacco-free pouch to world-leading brands ZYN(R) and on!. Using measurements to determine the median time required to reach comparable nicotine concentrations within the bloodstream (“Tmax”), Lexaria exhibited higher levels of certain pleasurable effects over the competition. DehydraTECH also provided the lowest frequency of unwanted negative effects, including moderate to severe nausea, demonstrating benefits from Lexaria’s formulation.

In addition to the announcement of favorable results from its NIC-H22-1 study, the company was recently granted a strategically important new patent in the oral nicotine sector by the United States Patent and Trademark Office, US Patent #11,700,875 Compositions and Methods for Sublingual Delivery of Nicotine. This new patent builds upon the company’s growing portfolio of 35 granted patents, with several more pending worldwide – spanning Lexaria’s research and development focus.

“We’ve always had an overwhelming determination and fierce conviction that we can make the world a better place and reduce the carnage caused by smoked cigarettes, and now we have human study data that demonstrates advantages of DehydraTECH processed nicotine relative to the competitive landscape,” said Chris Bunka, CEO of Lexaria (https://ibn.fm/nrgGY).

Separately, Lexaria also intends to conduct a human clinical study to examine its DehydraTECH-CBD formulation for diabetes control and weight loss. This intent comes after positive results were released in early August regarding its DIAB-A22-1 study in obese diabetic-conditioned animals, which achieved the following:

• Lowered blood glucose levels by 19.9% (p<0.05)
• Lowered overall body weight by 7% sustained over eight weeks
• Witnessed a statistically significant increase in locomotor activity (p<0.05)
• Lowered triglyceride levels by more than 25% (p<0.007)
• Lowered blood urea nitrogen levels by 27.9% (p<0.001)

These successful pre-clinical results have the company determined to undertake a human study to investigate whether these improvements are also evidenced in humans. The study design is currently underway and will be submitted to an independent review board for approval.

As the company continues to grow and explore maximizing the potential of its DehydraTECH technology, a new wholly-owned subsidiary under the name Lexaria Nutraceutical Corp. (“LEXX Nutra”) has been formed. LEXX Nutra has been granted an exclusive, perpetual license entitling it to use DehydraTECH, or sublicense the use of DehydraTECH, to create consumer packaged goods and/or intermediate ingredients composed of any molecule except those associated with cannabis or nicotine. LEXX Nutra is also prohibited from using its licensing to manufacture any pharmaceutical product.

Lexaria Pharmaceutical Corp.’s licensing was also amended, ensuring it would only focus on manufacturing pharmaceutical products–excluding nicotine-associated molecules. The formation of Lexaria’s wholly-owned subsidiaries draws a distinct line in the sand for Lexaria, ensuring that proper research and development efforts for key indications are being diverted to the appropriate subsidiary.

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

• The United States and other Western nations have been embroiled in trade tensions with China since 2018 as a consequence of China’s efforts to control its industries’ exports of metals critical to modern digital and green technologies
• China imposed new licensing controls on the exports of the metals gallium and germanium that it processes, prompting fresh concerns about China’s ability to choke resources to the global market it supplies
• Ucore Rare Metals is a supply chain innovator dedicated to increasing American production of critical metals in order to reduce reliance on trade with China
• Ucore’s proprietary RapidSX(TM) processing solution for select rare earth elements (“REEs”) is being developed as a means of sustaining domestic REE production for applications ranging from electric vehicle batteries to national defense weaponry

Restrictions imposed earlier this month by The People’s Republic of China on the export of two semiconductor metals represent the latest flashpoint in the years-long trade and technology war between the Asian nation and the United States and, in its development, a rationale for American production of resources critical to modern technology manufacturing.

Some Western pundits have scarlet-lettered China’s requirement that exporters of gallium and germanium get authorization through a government license before shipping those metals out of country, branding it as an unfaithful act of retaliation (https://ibn.fm/RDAOe). China, sensitive to the criticisms, has replied at length that the controls are the result of a “legitimate” effort by the country to protect its own limited resources, its position in the marketplace and its national security (https://ibn.fm/qJFCT).

Canada-based critical technology metals supply chain innovator Ucore Rare Metals (TSX.V: UCU) (OTCQX: UURAF) is at the forefront of American attempts to shore up domestic mining and processing of metals necessary to modern technology, including some of the 15 rare earth elements (“REEs”) that are also largely controlled by China’s industry and, by extension, its government.

Ucore’s passion for building and sustaining domestic REE processing is evident in its public-facing messaging as it tests its proprietary RapidSX(TM) solvent extraction process for REEs at an Ontario demonstration plant in preparation for construction and operation of a commercial-scale separation facility in Louisiana, which contractors are slated to start building later this year.

“If you’re making a chemical concentrate, or any type of concentrate, from a rare earth mine, you have no option today other than to send it to China for processing and it will get used in Chinese processing at that time. It will get used in F-35 fighters. … That’s not right,” Ucore CEO Pat Ryan said in an interview with InvestorIntel last year (https://ibn.fm/geJAj).

“We’re working upstream with all the near-term producers that only have an option to send product back to China,” Ryan added, to convince them, “Let’s process on North American soil. Here are our plans. … Here’s our tech. Here’s our list of customers. … Let’s get the job done.”

Although silicon is the principal source of semiconductor material in modern applications, germanium and gallium have numerous high-tech applications in the rapidly evolving world of digital technologies, ranging from fiber optic cables and 5G telecommunications masts, to military-grade thermal imaging, lasers, light-emitting diodes (“LEDs”), satellite solar panels and rare-earth magnets in the engines of electric vehicles (“EVs”), a Fastmarkets report noted recently (https://ibn.fm/cVzJa).

Participants in other critical raw material markets are paying attention to China’s export controls, the article noted.

“Cobalt and nickel producer Jervois Global has spoken out against what it describes as China using its market dominance ‘to choke off key materials for advanced chips,’ ” it states, quoting the company’s social media comment that “America, with no meaningful stockpile/inadequate mining/refining, can currently do little” to abate its reliance on overseas sources of strategic and critical minerals.”

While the government has provided some companies — including Ucore — with funding to explore domestic production and processing options, the Semiconductor Industry Association has expressed concern about new restrictions on trade with China imposed by the United States’ executive office this month, asking both countries to ease tensions to avoid “diminishing the U.S. semiconductor industry’s competitiveness, disrupting supply chains, causing significant market uncertainty, and … continued escalatory retaliation by China” (https://ibn.fm/FVUZL). 

For more information, visit Ucore’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