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PowerBand Solutions Inc. (TSX.V: PBX) (OTCQB: PWWBF) (FRA: 1ZVA) Virtual Transaction Platform Now Available via CARco to Nationwide Network of Auto Dealers

  • CARco will promote PowerBand’s cloud-based auto trading platform to its network of insurance entities, with reach into thousands of car dealerships across the U.S.
  • Users will also be able to access CARco and D&P vehicle protection products directly on PowerBand’s platform
  • PowerBand is working on integrating credit financing agreements from U.S. financial institutions into its platform to allow users access to financing and leasing solutions

PowerBand Solutions (TSX.V: PBX) (OTCQB: PWWBF) (FRA: 1ZVA), a provider of auction and finance portal software tools that deliver increased sales, efficiencies and profitability to customers, announced that Comprehensive Auto Resources Company, Inc. (CARco) will promote PowerBand’s virtual transaction platform to auto dealerships throughout the United States (http://ibn.fm/hCkJA).

CARco, a leading administrator of automotive protection products, joins Texas-based D&P Holdings, Inc., which has already partnered with PowerBand, to offer consumers a wide range of vehicle protection products and warranties via PowerBand’s platform. The innovative cloud-based platform makes buying, selling, leasing and trading cars and trucks as easy as purchasing a product on Amazon. PowerBand’s platform benefits key stakeholders in the automotive retail sector, including funders, OEMs and rental companies, by removing unnecessary third parties and their fees from sales transactions.

Following the latest deals, consumers using the PowerBand platform to buy, lease, sell and trade vehicles on from their smart phones and other digital devices, will also have access to CARco and D&P vehicle protection products.

“We believe PowerBand is offering a ground-breaking way for consumers and dealers to buy, sell, lease and trade vehicles,” said CARco President and CEO Charlie Caronia. “Obtaining vehicle protection products through PowerBand’s cloud-based platform is also an important innovation, particularly during this pandemic, and I believe both dealers and insurance agents will see this as a powerful, consumer-friendly tool.”

Based in Exton, Pennsylvania, CARco was founded in 2004 to offer automotive dealers and consumers a wide array of vehicle protection and warranty products. As a managing general insurance agency, CARco works with six national insurance companies and more than 1,000 agents, to provide service to thousands of auto dealerships nationwide. CARco administers more than 100,000 new vehicle protection products on a monthly basis in the United States.

“Charlie Caronia and CARco are respected leaders in the automotive warranty business and we are delighted they are joining D&P on the PowerBand platform,” said PowerBand CEO Kelly Jennings. “Together, we will be able to offer consumers and dealers a wide array of automotive vehicle protection and insurance products, simply by using a smart phone or tablet.”

D&P is one of the United States’ largest administrators of automotive warranty and insurance products, directly working with more than 850 dealerships in all 50 states. It is the managing general agency for The Hanover Insurance Group, which has a $3.8-billlion market valuation.

The latest announcements came as PowerBand is preparing to launch its first lease originations, via MUSA Auto Finance, LLC, the company’s leasing subsidiary that provides consumers and auto dealers with access to extensive funding opportunities from national financial institutions and the most advanced digital leasing solutions in the market. The technology can take an application, calculate the lease, auto-decision the application, provide approvals to dealer partners and accurately prefill lease contracts. The entire process happens in just a few seconds, making it significantly easier for users of of PowerBand’s platform and integrated Driveway app to get approvals for financing and leasing.

The automotive industry has been in a state of flux, with every aspect experiencing disruption, from driverless vehicles to artificial intelligence. Customer expectations for the market have been raised as technological innovations progress. As more customers begin to expect the same seamless digital service they receive in other retail markets, the automotive industry must adapt to remain competitive and protect profits as well as finance and insurance margins. To do so, retailers must find opportunities to leverage the digital-oriented nature of buyers and their desire for advanced technology.

Additionally, social distancing rules imposed by the ongoing pandemic have increased this already significant demand for online alternatives. According to the ‘Digital Commerce 360 Online Vehicle Shopper 2019’ survey, conducted among 1,089 buyers, 49% are willing to purchase a new vehicle entirely online (http://ibn.fm/j6RyW). According to Frost & Sullivan, consumers may purchase as many as 1.3 million vehicles annually online as soon as 2035 (http://ibn.fm/jhJpk). And nearly 90% of Americans report they dislike the car dealership experience, noting they feel anxious or uncomfortable in dealership settings.

PowerBand is positioned to capitalize on these trends by disrupting the antiquated business model of the automotive industry, replacing distrust and confusion with transparency, access to information and ease of use.

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

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

Deltec Bank & Trust Ltd. is “One to Watch”

  • Deltec Bank & Trust is a key player within the financial services community in The Bahamas, where financial services revenues account for over 17% of GDP.
  • The Bahamas has recently taken strides to promote its financial services industry on a global stage, with the European Union reaffirming the nation’s compliance with its strict criteria in early 2020. Today, there are approximately 700 funds licensed in the Bahamas, with assets under management totaling over $200 billion.
  • Deltec Bank has witnessed a dramatic increase in growth, with assets under management growing nearly 12-fold between 2003 and 2019. In 2016, Deltec purchased the Bahamas-based private banking operations of French megabank Société Generale.
  • In addition to traditional financial services, Deltec Bank has focused itself on partaking in the ongoing fintech revolution – hosting annual conferences for its clients showcasing emerging companies across a wide variety of industries, publishing research into the newest trends within finance and introducing its customers to unique investment opportunities within both public equity and private markets.
  • Deltec Bank was recently named the ‘Best Private Bank in the Caribbean 2020’ by Global Banking and Finance Review, an award which it also won in 2015.

Deltec Bank & Trust is a leading financial hub for global investors, financiers and entrepreneurs. The private and corporate bank offers its clients a unique suite of bespoke financial solutions, institutional expertise and highly attentive service with an aim toward creating a network of opportunities to enhance client wealth. Deltec Bank & Trust Ltd. is the flagship company of the Deltec International Group, a diversified independent financial services group providing a range of financial services including fund administration, corporate advisory, merchant banking, global insurance and digital asset solutions.

Founded in 1959, Deltec draws upon the collective experience of more than 150 professionals. These specialists come from a wide array of backgrounds, including private bankers and investment advisors, trust officers, lawyers and certified public accountants, many of whom have previously worked at some of the world’s largest and most prestigious financial institutions. Deltec specializes in providing its clients with private banking and fiduciary expertise, fund administration, investment management solutions, digital asset financial services, insurance, and corporate and merchant banking capabilities.

Following the purchase of Société Generale’s private banking business in The Bahamas in 2016, Deltec has seen its group-wide assets under management, administration and custody rise to over $12 billion, as of late 2019 (http://ibn.fm/R4dyc).

Deltec Bank has received a number of accolades throughout its lengthy history, most recently being named the ‘Best Private Bank in the Caribbean 2020’ by Global Banking and Finance Review (http://ibn.fm/Bba66), an award which it also won in 2015. The company was recognized for its outstanding performance and achievements, scoring particularly highly in the following categories:

  • Strong client relations with personal and client-focused services;
  • Highly personalized and innovative products and services; and
  • Continued commitment to providing clients with the best possible financial solutions.

Opportunity within Fintech

Remarkably for a private bank, Deltec Bank & Trust has historically been at the forefront of the digital banking and fintech revolution within the financial services industry. Deltec has also gained renown for its annual conference, with the latest iteration focusing on disruption with financial services (http://ibn.fm/QCwEV). Hosting over 300 delegates, including the Deputy Prime Minister & Minister of Finance of The Bahamas, the conference featured ‘The Innovator’s Marketplace’, a forum providing an opportunity for emerging companies in biotech/life sciences, virtual reality, blockchain, fintech, quantum computing and other cutting-edge industries to pitch their ideas to investors and attendees in 45-minute presentations.

Engagement with the Community

Deltec Bank has long held strong ties within the local community in The Bahamas through its Deltec Initiatives Foundation, which was designed to foster an environment that empowers young Bahamians to drive positive social impact through the power of arts, entrepreneurship and education.

Since 2013, the foundation has discovered, launched and mentored many talented, motivated and driven Bahamian artists, artisans and entrepreneurs. The Deltec Initiatives Foundation comprises three pillars: The Initiative for the Arts, The Initiative for Young Entrepreneurs and The Initiative for Scholarship & Education.

Expert Team of Professionals

Jean Chalopin, chairman of Deltec International Group, is a global business leader with a remarkably diverse background encompassing several industries, including banking, wealth management, biotechnologies and entertainment.

Odetta Morton, CEO of Deltec Bank & Trust, is a seasoned banker and CPA with over 20 years of experience in the financial services sector, including financial management, shareholder relations, business leadership and corporate strategy.

Gregory Pepin, Deputy CEO of Deltec Bank & Trust, is an expert financial strategist with vast experience in blockchain technology, investments, wealth management and insurance.

Fabio Gama, Chief Operating Office of Deltec Bank & Trust, has 15 years’ experience in the financial services industry, Fabio has been directly responsible for operations, IT, facilities and procurement. He is an expert in developing teams and has a proven track record for supporting business needs.

Tanya Carey, Chief Financial Officer of Deltec Bank & Trust, is a resourceful finance professional and licensed CPA with over 20 years of experience in financial services and solid industry and regulatory knowledge.

Terry Girling, Chief Administrative Officer of Deltec Bank & Trust, is a senior executive, chartered accountant and banking professional with over 40 years of experience in the finance and banking sectors. Girling is experienced in all facets of banking, including accounting, compliance, operations, technology, fund administration, trust administration and human resources.

Hugo Rogers, Chief Investment Officer of Deltec Bank & Trust, is a multi-asset investment and award-winning global equity and hedge fund manager. He has actively managed investments for over 15 years. He is also a CFA Charterholder with a master’s degree from Oxford University.

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

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

Pure Extract Technologies Inc. Set to Become Dominant Extraction Company in Growing Mushroom Space

  • Functional mushrooms seeing rise in popularity due to health benefits, alternative medicine options
  • Predictions show global medicinal mushroom market growing annually by $13.88 billion
  • Pure Extracts is ideally positioned to enter the space as experienced producer

Used for centuries for their impressive medicinal properties and health benefits, functional mushrooms are enjoying a rise in popularity, due at least in part to increased research and study of the natural fungi as well as trends toward alternative natural health options. Pure Extract Technologies, a private, plant-based extraction company with a new vertical in functional mushrooms, is focused on becoming the dominant extraction company in the industry and a leader in the rapid development and commercialization of functional mushroom products.

In an article titled “Here’s What You Need to Know About Functional Mushroom,” Stephanie Ferrari, a Massachusetts-based registered dietitian, says that there is deep scientific literature that points to the healing properties of mushrooms, specifically their immune system and cancer-prevention benefits (http://ibn.fm/3EczB). “Research suggests that mushrooms not only strengthen our immune systems but may also be useful in treating certain diseases like asthma, allergies and arthritis due to their anti-inflammatory properties,” she says.

Beyond that, the article notes that “mushrooms are low in calories, high in protein, and good sources of B vitamins, minerals and fiber. . . . Several are considered adaptogens, which means they help us to cope with stress.”

In addition, research published in “Integrative Medicine: A Clinician’s Journal,” notes that, for certain types of mushrooms, “an abundance of in vitro evidence exists that elucidates the anticancer immunological mechanisms. Preliminary research in humans is also available and is promising for treatment” (http://ibn.fm/SGEgE).

The functional mushroom industry is among the fastest growing in North America, with forecasts predicting the global medicinal mushroom market will grow annually by $13.88 billion (http://ibn.fm/mwcrf). As the industry transitions from dry biomass to extracts, many companies are unprepared for this new opportunity.

Pure Extracts, on the other hand, is ideally positioned to enter the space as an experienced producer. With a team of qualified experts and cutting-edge extraction technology, the company is set up for long-term strategic distribution and product innovation. Located in Pemberton, British Columbia, the company’s facility is built for EU-GMP certification, which allows for international sales and ensures the production of high-quality, high-purity formulations on a commercial scale.

Further establishing its power in the market, Pure Extracts has signed nondisclosure agreements to explore joint-development endeavors for product launches slated for potential Q4 delivery. The company also inked an advisory agreement with Dr. Alexander MacGregor, founder of Transpharm Canada Inc., the parent company of Toronto Institute of Pharmaceutical Technology, whose facility is a fully compliant Health Canada-licensed, Good Manufacturing Practice manufacturing and testing facility and is a full-service, clinical-development business that provides clinical trial services to biotechnology companies.

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

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

Cybin Corp. is “One to Watch”

  • Cybin is a leading Canada-based mushroom life sciences company focused on psychedelic medicines and nutraceutical products
  • The company has two operating divisions – Serenity Life Sciences (psychedelic pharmaceutical products) and Natures Journey Inc. (medicinal nutraceutical products)
  • Members of Cybin’s experienced management team have collectively run multiple clinical trials and helped facilitate over $1 billion in pharmaceutical sales
  • The company recently announced a strategic partnership with the Toronto Centre for Psychedelic Science
  • Cybin is currently marketing a range of fungi-based supplements under its Journey brand aimed at breaking into the global non-psychedelic legal supplement market, which is valued at $25 billion annually and growing at a 9% year-over-year rate
  • The company has plans to carry out a clinical trial with a new delivery system for its psilocybin-based medications later this year
  • Cybin recently entered an amalgamation agreement that is expected to result in the reverse takeover of Clarmin Exploration Inc. by Cybin
  • To date, Cybin has raised approximately C$10,400,000 through an initial financing round and its series A financing round

Cybin Corp. is a Canada-based life sciences company focused on the pharmaceutical development of psychedelic products, as well as the functional mushroom market.

The early-stage company boasts an experienced management team featuring industry veterans from pharmaceutical and consumer product backgrounds who have run multiple clinical trials and collectively helped facilitate billions of dollars in product revenues. The team is dedicated to the development of products and protocols within the psychedelic, pharmaceutical and nutraceutical industries.

In particular, Cybin aims to further build upon and expand its intellectual property (“IP”) portfolio, which is structured around unique psilocybin delivery mechanisms that target a number of different therapeutic indications. In addition, the company has dedicated itself toward furthering its research and IP within the fields of synthetic compounds, extraction methods, the isolation of chemical compounds, new drug formulations and protocol regimes.

Serenity Life Sciences & Natures Journey Inc.

The company’s business model is centered around its two core subsidiaries, Serenity Life Sciences and Natures Journey Inc., which comprise Cybin’s two-pronged approach toward delivering fungi-derived psychedelic and medicinal products.

Serenity Life Sciences is focused on furthering research and development of psilocybin-based medications. Psilocybin is found in certain species of mushrooms and is a non-habit forming, naturally occurring psychedelic compound. Research into psilocybin has shown positive results for the treatment of depression, anxiety, PTSD, addiction, eating disorders, ADHD and other indications.

Natures Journey Inc. operates the Journey brand, which specializes in developing proprietary medicinal mushroom products that target and promote mental wellness, immune boosting detoxification and overall general health and wellbeing.

Partnership with the Toronto Centre for Psychedelic Science

Staying true to its axiom of being a research-first medicinal mushroom life sciences company, Cybin recently announced its entry into a strategic partnership with the Toronto Centre for Psychedelic Science (“TCPS”), with the goal of furthering its ongoing psilocybin research efforts and expanding Cybin’s psilocybin IP portfolio (http://ibn.fm/sO76n).

“While there is evidence to support psilocybin as a treatment for certain indications, the Toronto Centre for Psychedelic Science is taking a clinical approach to prove or disprove the safety and efficacy of psilocybin-based microdosing through an open science approach,” Paul Glavine, CEO of Cybin, stated in a news release.

“We are excited to join forces with Cybin and to offer our expertise. A number of firms had approached TCPS, but Cybin demonstrated a superior commitment to high-quality research and integrity in product development. Our high standards for scientific rigor and transparency will find a fitting home within the culture Cybin is cultivating in Canada and abroad,” Thomas Anderson, co-founder of the Toronto Centre for Psychedelic Science, added.

Journey’s Product Monetization & Market Potential for Nutraceutical Supplements

Although Cybin is at the forefront of companies seeking to conduct clinical trials aimed at gaining regulatory approval for psilocybin and other psychedelic products, the company has also placed a great deal of emphasis on generating meaningful revenue from its very outset.

Cybin’s Journey brand has is launching a range of supplements comprised of popular fungi-derived ingredients such as Reishi, Lion’s Mane and Cordyceps. Purported to aid focus and concentration while promoting neurogenesis, Journey’s range of nutraceutical products provides Cybin with a crucial foothold within the non-psychedelic legal supplement market, which is valued at over $25 billion globally and growing at a 9% year-over-year rate.

Pharmaceutical Psychedelics

In addition to the company’s range of non-psychedelic supplements, Cybin has plans to carry out a clinical trial with a new delivery system for its psilocybin-based medications later this year. Ultimately, the company aims to enter into technology transfer agreements with global pharmaceutical companies after phase 1 & phase 2 clinical trials are complete in order to accelerate regulatory approvals in major indications in global markets with entire lifecycle product management.

With products such as psilocybin truffles already legal in nations such as the Netherlands, Jamaica and Bulgaria, Cybin has positioned itself to capitalize on an eventual legalization of psychedelic mushroom-derived products in the future. Working within a regulatory environment with strong similarities to that which dealt with cannabis prior to the industry’s eventual legalization by the Canadian government in 2018, Cybin is laying the groundwork for the moment pharmaceutical psychedelics gain acceptance in North America and abroad.

Amalgamation Agreement and Financing

Cybin recently announced its entry into an amalgamation agreement dated June 26, 2020, with Clarmin Explorations Inc. (TSX.V: CX) and 2762898 Ontario Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Clarmin (http://ibn.fm/uprIC). Completion of the transactions contemplated in the amalgamation agreement will result in the reverse takeover of Clarmin by Cybin.

In connection with the proposed transaction, Cybin plans to complete a “best-efforts” brokered private placement of subscription receipts of Cybin, with a syndicate of agents co-led by Stifel Nicolaus Canada Inc. (Stifel GMP) and Eight Capital, to raise a minimum of C$14 million ($10 million) and a maximum of C$21 million ($15 million), with a 15% agents’ option.

To date, Cybin has raised approximately C$10,400,000 through an initial financing round and its series A financing round.

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

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

Sugarmade Inc. (SGMD) Capitalizing on Steep Increase in Cannabis Space, Strengthening Diverse Portfolio

  • SGMD offers diversified portfolio across various industries, including cannabis and industrial hemp
  • Cannabis sales have increased during pandemic; social distancing hampers in-store sales, so delivery seeing increased volumes
  • SGMD capitalizing on growing relevance of cannabis delivery with its BudCars delivery service

Sugarmade (OTCQB: SGMD), a leading, multidivisional/multiproduct supply company crossing various industries, is focused on developing a diversified brand portfolio and revenue growth through strategic acquisitions. SGMD’s most recent acquisition, BudCars Cannabis Delivery Service has been a particularly strong move for the company as it strengthens its position in the growing hemp market.

Declared essential in nearly all of the 33 states with legalized recreational and medical markets, the cannabis industry has seen an increase in sales during COVID-19 (http://ibn.fm/LaTPf). As society deals with increased uncertainty in the post-pandemic world, the potential of cannabis to safely ease stress, suffering and pain as well as spark economic stimulation may change the societal stigma that may still hamper the proliferation of cannabis products (http://ibn.fm/7gRx9).

However, social-distancing orders have changed how cannabis customers behave, leading to an increase in delivery in states where it is legal, including California, Nevada, Oregon and Massachusetts. These regulatory changes regarding the legalization of delivery will change consumer expectations in the industry towards convenience (http://ibn.fm/TJ950).

Quick to seize market opportunities as they arise, SGMD acquired BudCars, a premier cannabis-delivery service, positioning itself to capitalize on this growing trend. BudCars is an online shopping platform for same-day cannabis delivery designed to provide customers with a convenient way to discover and order a wide range of cannabis products, including flowers, edibles, pre-rolled, tinctures, vapes and concentrate from multiple premium brands. The platform currently operates in Sacramento, CA, and has reported astounding success with a Los Angeles hub scheduled to open in July.

Cannabis is a solid sector for Sugarmade. Industrial hemp and hemp-derived products are reporting a steep increase over the recent years, and the trend is expected to continue, with an annual growth rate of 14% through 2022 (http://ibn.fm/saNB3).

SGMD is gearing up to finish the first two quarters of 2020 strong, with robust sales achieved since the beginning of the year. The company recently announced that its BudCars Cannabis Delivery Service amassed 58% month over month sales growth, leading to record-breaking sales numbers (http://ibn.fm/SqkPu). With the current focus on the expansion of non-storefront cannabis delivery and the overall business model that is aligned with the significant trends shaping the cannabis industry, SGMD is poised to maintain its explosive expansion trajectory, offering investors a high-growth investment opportunity.

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

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

Kingman Minerals Ltd. (TSX.V: KGS) in Prime Position as Investors Return to ‘Favorite Safe Haven Asset’

  • Bloomberg reports that gold is “set to soar”
  • Forbes predicts that gold “is likely to reach a major milestone”
  • KGS Minerals committed to delivering highest possible value to shareholders

Bloomberg pegged 2020 as a “golden year,” noting that “after one of the most geopolitically charged years in recent memory, gold is now set to soar” (http://ibn.fm/Epv8a) — and that was before the market volatility caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Kingman Minerals (TSX.V: KGS), a Canada-based company engaged in the acquisition, exploration and development of gold and silver properties in North America, looks to be ideally positioned to benefit from the gold boom as investors start “racing back to their favorite safe haven asset.”

The Bloomberg report, titled “The 6 Most Promising Gold Trends for 2020,” continued by stating that “gold stocks were depressed for years. But as worries of dwindling gold supplies — ‘peak gold’ — and geopolitical uncertainty took root, investors began to bet on a major gold run.”

Bloomberg isn’t the only financial-market organization to report on the shining potential of gold. A July 1, 2020 Forbes article, titled “Gold Prices Are Soaring to the Moon,” reported that “the precious metal, gold, is likely to reach a major milestone and touch the critical $1,800 mark” (http://ibn.fm/5AvVb).

“Gold prices have been rallying since the last quarter of 2018. Since then, it has been recording gains for each quarter,” the article continued. “It is highly likely that gold may continue its momentous run for another few quarters, especially this quarter.” The article went on to note that, with no realistic expectation that a vaccine for COVID-19 will be available before 2021, local shutdowns on a global basis will likely continue to limit economic recovery. “As we move into Autumn, the flu season is only likely to worsen the already complex situation. This means that there are higher chances of strong percentage gains for the gold price in Q3 and Q4.”

Kingman Minerals is focused on taking full advantage of the rising interest — and investments — in gold. Committed to delivering the highest possible value to shareholders, KGS is working to purchase 100% of the properties within its portfolio, which includes two current mining operations: the Mohave Project and the Cadillac East Property. In addition, the company’s unique business model creates significant shareholder value by providing leverage to increases in the price of precious metals, additional growth through the acquisition of new potential exploration targets, and participation in the exploration and expansion success of the historical mines and prospects underlying its current agreements.

Kingman Minerals Ltd. is currently engaged in the business of precious metal mineral exploration for the purpose of acquiring and advancing non-grass-roots mineral properties located in mining friendly jurisdictions of North America. Formerly known as Astorius Resources Ltd., KGS is engaged in the acquisition, exploration and development of gold and silver properties in North America. Based in Canada, KGS is committed to sourcing and developing high-quality properties with significant mining potential as part of its strategy of developing a diverse portfolio of low-cost, lifelong assets.

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

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

Energy Fuels Inc. (NYSE American: UUUU) (TSX: EFR) to Capitalize as Nuclear Takes Center Stage

  • Nuclear increasingly seen as critical energy in post-pandemic world
  • UUUU plays leading role in the U.S. nuclear industry, producing more than one-third of country’s uranium over past 15 years
  • Energy Fuels provides investors with compelling growth potential underpinned by industry-leading production assets, robust balance sheet

Energy Fuels (NYSE American: UUUU) (TSX: EFR), the largest uranium producer in the United States and the leading conventional producer of vanadium, appears well positioned to capitalize on the recent attention that nuclear power has attracted, both in the United States and abroad. A recent push for nuclear power by the International Energy Association (“IEA”) and OECD Nuclear Energy Agency, two major international organizations, recognizes immense benefits of this energy source for both economic recovery and energy supply resilience in the post-COVID19 world.

According to the IEA, nuclear power has been one of the largest contributors to carbon-free electricity with the considerable potential to contribute to power sector decarbonization. In its recent World Energy Outlook Special Report on Sustainable Recovery, the agency reported that investing in nuclear energy, particularly in existing power plants, is one of the measures set out to support clean energy technologies during the COVID19 economic recovery (http://ibn.fm/P3zcN). The report notes that extending the operations of existing nuclear plants will support job creation and the prevention of more emissions per GW than other low-carbon options.

In a similar tone, the OECD Nuclear Energy Agency recently published a series of policy briefs (http://ibn.fm/obvAk) that investigate the role of nuclear energy in the post-pandemic economic recovery covering four themes: building resilience of electricity infrastructures, high-quality job creation, cost-effective decarbonization and unlocking finance for nuclear energy infrastructure.

In a statement following the release of the briefs, the agency stated that the COVID19 pandemic had made a significant impact on the global economy and the energy sector underlining the importance of electricity resilience and reliability during major disruptions. It is becoming increasingly clear that stimulus packages put in place by governments around the world have the opportunity to foster energy systems that not only contribute to economic recovery but also meet long‑term environmental goals and energy security, said the agency. Nuclear energy can play a key role in post-COVID19 economic recovery.

The pandemic may be an additional impetus for an already growing industry. The global demand for clean energy is increasing, with nuclear energy emerging as an excellent option. With power plants that operate 24/7, nuclear is a reliable, stable and affordable energy source with zero carbon emissions and air pollution. In the United States, nuclear supplies 20% of all electricity and 55% of all clean energy (http://ibn.fm/6DmGD). At the same time, major uranium producers are shut down due to the pandemic, including global leader Kazakhstan, which produces 40% of the world’s uranium, squeezing an already tight market.

With more uranium production facilities and capacity, as well as more in-ground resources than any other company in the country, UUUU has produced more than one-third of all U.S. uranium over the past 15 years (http://ibn.fm/khaiz). The Colorado-based diversified miner has been focused on building a rock-solid balance sheet through a strategy of reducing the debt burden over the past several years. UUUU has recently announced the plan to pay off half of its debt by mid-July 2020, expecting to become debt-free by the end of 2020 (http://ibn.fm/ZNrkq). The company is also seeking to bring rare earth element production back to the U.S. With an unparalleled ability to swiftly increase low-cost U.S. uranium production, Energy Fuels is well-positioned to capitalize on the growing role of the nuclear energy in the years to come.

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

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

DarioHealth Corp. (NASDAQ: DRIO) is “One to Watch”

  • Dario’s popular (4.9 stars on the Apple App Store and 11,000 reviews) chronic condition management platform addresses a $72 billion annual U.S. market opportunity
  • There are roughly 51,000 active users of the Dario platform, including its proprietary medical device, mobile application, and digital and human coaching services
  • Clinical studies show Dario’s direct improvement on users’ health measures like H1AC scores (diabetes) and blood pressure (hypertension)
  • Patient engagement in therapies leads to health success. The Dario platform centers on continual maximization of patient engagement through personalization, including ‘nudges’ and live, AI-generated responses to health measures provided by Dario smartphone-connected medical devices
  • Dario is now deploying its successful B2C platform in B2B channels, targeting employers and health plans with competitive advantages spanning cost, software and hardware
  • Catasys Inc.’s (NASDAQ: CATS) C-level team (president, CMO, and head of sales) recently joined Dario to accelerate B2B penetration and revenue growth

New York and Israel-based DarioHealth (NASDAQ: DRIO) leads global digital therapeutics (“DTx”) with its popular, smartphone-centered personalized chronic illness management software-as-a-service (SaaS). The company’s strategic advantages include:

  • AI-powered digital solutions that drive durable behavior change in chronic disease patients, and
  • Personalized user experience at scale to make behavior change the path of least resistance.

Approximately $3 trillion in annual U.S. costs associated with chronic illnesses like diabetes, hypertension and obesity are largely preventable with behavioral therapies. Formerly limited to periodic office visits, these therapies can now scale to millions with tech-enabled, continual and remote health monitoring, as well as AI-driven digital and live coaching. This is all possible while still maintaining the personalization required for success in reducing illness and its related effects and costs.

Roughly 51,000 active, paying users manage their health with Dario’s platform that combines smartphone-connected vitals measurement, remote patient monitoring (“RPM”), lifestyle management tools, and AI-driven and human coaching to deliver improved clinical outcomes.

Among the most downloaded medical apps, the Dario platform is rated at 4.9 stars on the Apple App Store and features 11,000 reviews, along with a Net Promoter Score (a measurement of consumers’ willingness to recommend the product to others) that’s the highest in its field.

Company Strategy

Clinical studies demonstrate Dario’s direct improvement on users’ health measures like H1AC scores (diabetes) and blood pressure (hypertension).

Patient engagement in therapies leads to health success. Dario’s platform centers on continual maximization of patient engagement through personalization, including ‘nudges’ and live, AI-generated responses to health measures provided by Dario’s smartphone-connected medical devices.

Proprietary data analysis provides valuable insights that not only improve health care providers’ medical capabilities but, through artificial intelligence, encourage patients to take evidence-based and highly personalized preventative measures that reduce risk, emergency room visits and preventable hospitalization.

Dario is now deploying its successful B2C platform in B2B2C, targeting employers and health plans with competitive advantages in cost, software and hardware.

The company estimates an annual addressable U.S. market of $72 billion, only 1% of which has been penetrated with digital therapeutics.

The strategic transition to B2B2C (from exclusively B2B) is intended to accelerate revenue growth by reducing Dario’s cost per acquisition per user and expanding margins.

Dario’s commitment to aggressive growth is also shown by its appointment of a new president, chief medical officer and head of sales for North America, all from a highflyer behavioral health company.

Key growth drivers planned include expansion of the company’s paying B2C subscriber base; lateral expansion into other chronic conditions that overlap with its core diabetes populations, such as hypertension, obesity and depression; and increased B2B2C penetration.

Financial Highlights

The company plans to leverage a massive opportunity for growth, with a global addressable market for digital therapeutics of roughly $108 billion. In the U.S. alone, that number is estimated at $72 billion, and only about 1% of that market has been penetrated.

Dario’s strategic transition to an SaaS membership business model increased gross profit by 87% in Q1 2020, as compared to the prior year. Membership revenue increased from 27.1% to 46.7% in the same period. The company is seeing improved operating efficiencies as it shifts focus to the B2B2C business model, and it expects average revenue per user per month (“ARPU”), which was $6 and $25 in 2019 and 2020, respectively, to reach $70.

Value to Consumers and Businesses

Dario continually evaluates and optimizes the value and return its platform delivers to consumers and businesses.

Consumers seeking to understand how their everyday behavior impacts their personal health and chronic conditions benefit from actionable feedback on how to improve health and better collaborate with health care providers.

Businesses looking to increase employee satisfaction, loyalty and productivity with fewer health-related absences take advantage of Dario’s services for employers.

Health care providers improve patient compliance using the platform’s interactive services that allow for greater monitoring, which improve engagement with patients at the right times and with the right treatments.

Health plans can leverage DarioHealth’s solutions to improve patient outcomes and lower costs.

Recent Studies

The company recently presented the results of two new studies at the American Diabetes Association’s 80th Scientific Sessions, which showed sustained improvements in blood glucose levels and blood pressure among users of its digital therapeutic platform for chronic diseases. The results of these two studies demonstrate that the use of Dario’s therapeutic platform promotes behavioral modification, enhanced individual engagement and improved clinical outcomes.

Remote Patient Monitoring (“RPM”) Agreements

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services recently approved RPM codes for Medicare patients, which enables physicians to bill for between-visit patient care.

This simplifies implementation of the company’s open and scalable AI-driven platform and further supports transition to the company’s high-margin, recurring SaaS model targeting B2B2C revenue channels.

Emergency COVID-19 FDA Guidelines Allow Self-Test Blood Glucose Meters

In an effort to preserve personal protective equipment (“PPE”) and reduce contact between health care providers and patients in hospital settings due to COVID-19, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (“FDA”) has recognized that home-use blood glucose meters, including Dario’s smartphone-connected metering device, may be used by patients with diabetes who are hospitalized due to COVID-19 to check their own blood glucose levels and provide the readings to the health care personnel caring for them.

As a result, hospitals can now allow patients to self-test using their Dario blood glucose testing strips and smartphone-connected devices, or hospitals can issue patients Dario devices upon admission for COVID-19-related conditions.

Irregularities in blood glucose levels are suspected as a factor in the increased severity of potentially deadly COVID-19 complications. As such, a high priority is being placed on stabilization of patients’ blood glucose levels.

Awards and Recognition

DarioHealth’s Blood Glucose Monitoring System was voted as the ‘Best Glucometer for Data Management’ by Top Ten Reviews. Jeph Preece, senior editor at Top Ten Reviews, said, “The Dario app is the best data management system that I’ve seen. Compared to apps by popular brands, Dario’s system looks and feels like it’s years ahead of the curve.”

‘The Global Digital Health 100’, an annual award sponsored by the reputable Journal of Health, recognized DarioHealth as a leader among health technology companies demonstrating the greatest potential to change the way that health care is delivered.

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

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

PowerBand Solutions Inc. (TSX.V: PBX) (OTCQB: PWWBF) (FRA: 1ZVA) Welcomes Insurance Entities to Platform Amid Buildup to Online Lease Offerings

  • PowerBand Solutions is rolling out its comprehensive virtual platform for buying and leasing automobiles online via home computers or handheld smart devices on the go
  • Amid the final preparations to begin leasing automobiles through its platform, PowerBand has announced financing and brand-building efforts by insurance entities D&P Holdings and Comprehensive Auto Resources Company, Inc. (“CARco”)
  • PowerBand announced in a recent statement of its 2019 year-end finances that the company had seen its annual revenues grow seven-fold to nearly $2 million and that it is confident revenues will continue to grow by the end of 2020 as a result of its activity
  • The company’s platform enables seamless sales transactions by including responsiveness to financing, inventory and inspections management needs

The global rise of giant online retail operations such as Amazon, eBay, and Alibaba, has become Exhibit A in judging the potential reach of e-commerce these days. The need for brick and mortar stores to also maintain a virtual storefront has long since become a foregone conclusion as well.

Disruptive fintech innovator PowerBand Solutions (TSX.V: PBX) (OTCQB: PWWBF) (FRA: 1ZVA) is becoming part of this movement, driving its smart-tech-accessible platform to obtain household name status as a preferred means of buying and leasing automobiles, with a personalized comfort level thoroughly capable of addressing any concerns that may arise between listing and sale to a degree simply not offered by other online services.

In an era when the coronavirus pandemic has led companies and consumers alike to limit face-to-face transactions in the name of reducing the spread of infection, PowerBand Solutions’ platform streamlines not only the transfer of money but also financing and inventory paperwork, vehicle inspections, and auction negotiations, as part of its all-encompassing alternative to physical in-person purchasing. The streamlined platform provides a speed, ease, and cost-efficiency in auto sales expected to turn the industry on its ear.

On June 16, the company announced its financial statement for the 2019 year-end noting that it had increased revenues seven-fold to nearly $2 million.

“The company made considerable advancements of its comprehensive online platform for the purchase, sale, trade-in, and financing of new and used vehicles in 2019,” PowerBand CEO Kelly Jennings stated (http://ibn.fm/gsofZ). “With the commercialization of the D2D Auto Auctions platform in the U.S., the continued development of the consumer Driveaway app, and the acquisition ed of a 60% interest in the industry-leading online lease platform MUSA Auto Finance, LLC, which should start to originate vehicle leases this month, PowerBand is well positioned to achieve significant revenue growth in 2020, and in the years ahead.”

PowerBand’s automotive transaction platform attracted Texas-based D&P Holdings, Inc., one of the largest administrators of automotive warranty and insurance products in the United States. D&P made the decision to convert $6 million of debentures in PowerBands’ subsidiary company PowerBand US into a direct investment in the company.

“We have seen the PowerBand transaction platform in action and we are confident it will be widely used by both consumers and auto dealers, who are increasingly looking to carry out their automotive transactions on a digital transaction platform,” D&P CEO John Armstrong stated (http://ibn.fm/OY1YA).

Armstrong had previously stated his company will invest at least $10 million in PowerBand eventually.

“While COVID-19 has caused unexpected business delays for many of us, this crisis has reinforced our belief that PowerBand will revolutionize how consumers and dealers interact when they buy, sell, lease and trade cars and trucks,” he stated in April (http://ibn.fm/4ML5k).

Comprehensive Auto Resources Company, Inc. (“CARco”), a managing general insurance agency that administers automobile protection products nationwide, will further advance PowerBand’s brand by using its network to promote PowerBand’s product to auto dealers across the United States (http://ibn.fm/wMrF9).

CARco and D&P will both offer their products to auto consumers via the PowerBand platform.

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

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

Predictive Oncology Inc. (NASDAQ: POAI) Announces Acquisition of Soluble Therapeutics, BioDtech as it Continues Buildout of Precision Medicine Business

  • Predictive Oncology announced the acquisition of Soluble Therapeutics Inc. & BioDtech Inc.
  • Acquired companies seek to enhance drug development process through the optimization of protein solubility and stability as well as through detection, removal of endotoxins
  • The companies were acquired for consideration amounting to 125,000 common shares and waiving of $1.07 million promissory note issued by parent company, InventaBioTech
  • Predictive Oncology seeks to build out its precision medicine business line, aimed at helping clinicians individualize cancer treatment

Predictive Oncology (NASDAQ: POAI), a knowledge-driven medicine company that focuses on applying data and artificial intelligence (“AI”) to cancer personalized medicine and drug discovery, announced that it had completed the acquisition of Soluble Therapeutics Inc. and BioDtech Inc. (http://ibn.fm/ccEdD). The company revealed that it had purchased the assets of Soluble and BioDtech, including certain intellectual property relating to contract research organization (“CRO”) services and equipment from parent company InventaBioTech for a total consideration of 125,000 shares of common stock. As part of the transaction, Predictive Oncology also waived all of the remaining amounts due and payable to the company under a secured promissory note of InventaBioTech in the principal amount of $1,070,000 relating to advances made by the company in 2017.

The acquisition of Soluble Therapeutics and BioDtech marks a new step in Predictive Oncology’s journey towards building out its precision medicine business, following its acquisition of its Helomics arm in April 2019. Soluble Therapeutics, which was founded in 2008 with the aim of commercializing technology licensed from the University of Alabama at Birmingham, seeks to enhance the drug development process by rapidly optimizing protein solubility and stability. Meanwhile, BioDtech develops and markets a line of reagents and systems for the detection, neutralization and removal of endotoxin for researchers in the bioresearch and bioprocess fields.

“These two acquisitions meaningfully expand revenue and monetization prospects for our precision medicine business,” said Predictive Oncology CEO and director Dr. Carl Schwartz (http://ibn.fm/4Nk9J). “First, the Soluble Therapeutics assets increase the company’s capabilities to provide services for the pharmaceutical and biotech industries and predict and provide the best formulation with the highest concentration and the most stable solution for protein and peptide-based drugs. Second, the company’s purchase of BioDtech’s assets provides it with ownership over BioDtech’s successfully developed test used to ‘unmask’ endotoxins, which allows a monitoring physician to perhaps change the strategy of treatment or treat the patient with antibiotics. These acquisitions will allow Predictive Oncology to further maximize opportunities within the company’s precision medicine business.”

Predictive Oncology is bringing precision medicine, or tailored medical treatment using the individual characteristics of each patient, to the treatment of cancer. Through its Helomics division, the company leverages its unique, clinically validated patient derived (“PDx”) smart tumor profiling platform to provide oncologists with a roadmap to help individualize therapy. In addition, the company is leveraging artificial intelligence and its proprietary database of over 150,000 cancer cases tumors to build AI-driven models of tumor drug response to improve outcomes for the patients of today and tomorrow.

For more information, visit the company’s website at www.Predictive-Oncology.com.

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

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