• Canada’s 2024 budget builds upon earlier commitments to mining industry, strategy
• Changes to the Mineral Exploration Tax Credit have potential to impact mining exploration
• Aston Bay, other mining companies make up Canada’s mining industry, which is a major sector of the country’s economy

Last week Canada officials released the official budget, which included a mix of measures that will impact the country’s mining and mineral exploration sector (https://ibn.fm/91cP2). Aston Bay Holdings (TSX.V: BAY) (OTCQB: ATBHF), a publicly traded mineral exploration company exploring for high-grade copper and gold deposits in Canada’s Nunavut territory, may be impacted by the announcement, along with other Canada-based mining companies.

According to the Mining Association of Canada (“MAC”), Canada’s 2024 budget “builds upon earlier commitments in Budget 2023, as well as in the 2023 Fall Economic Statement and the Canadian Critical Minerals Strategy.” The budget does the following:

• extends the Clean Technology Manufacturing Investment Tax Credit (CTM-ITC) to include the cost of investments in eligible property used primarily to produce qualifying critical minerals and to make certain other adjustments designed to provide greater clarity to businesses involved in polymetallic extraction and processing.
• establishes a target of five years or less to complete federal impact assessment and permitting processes and two years or less for permitting of nonfederal-designated projects
• creates $5 billion in loan guarantees to unlock access to capital for Indigenous communities, creating economic opportunities and supporting economic development priorities
• creates more work-integrated learning opportunities for post-secondary students
• extends the Mineral Exploration Tax Credit (“METC”) to March 31, 2025, and allows individual taxpayers to claim 80% of the Charitable Donations Tax Credit instead of 50% as originally proposed in 2023.

Mineral exploration companies such as Aston are paying particular attention to the changes to the METC. According to the article, “the budget’s increase to the inclusion rate for corporations and trusts to two-thirds and for individuals to two-thirds will significantly reduce the value of the METC to many individuals. Unless the government increases the adjusted cost base of all flow-through shares from zero percent to higher levels, we believe this budget will be very damaging to financing of mineral exploration in Canada at a time when new investment in critical minerals exploration is most needed.”

The article noted that MAC officials are hoping to work with Finance Canada to avoid what may be unintended consequences of these proposed changes.

“Today’s budget has pros and cons,” said MAC president and CEO Pierre Gratton. “The proposed new threshold for the CTM-ITC is welcome, but the changes to capital gains may undermine the METC and harm mineral exploration financing.  We applaud the government’s ambitions with respect to project timelines, but the real success will come down to implementation. We look forward to working with the government to make sure that mines in Canada can be approved and brought online in timelines that are more responsive to the urgent need for Canadian minerals and metals.”

According to the article, the mining industry is a major sector of Canada’s economy, responsible for 22% of Canada’s total domestic exports and contributing $125 billion to the national GDP. “Canada’s mining sector employs 665,000 people directly and indirectly across the country. The industry is proportionally the largest private sector employer of Indigenous peoples in Canada and is a major customer of Indigenous-owned businesses.”

Aston Bay is proud to be part of this strong Canadian sector. The company is focused on exploring for gold and copper in North America, specifically in Nunavut, where it has partnered with Australian explorer American West Metals at the high-grade Storm Copper Project. Aston Bay has no required expenditures in the partnership, which is aggressively advancing the high-grade sediment-hosted copper mineralization toward development and further discovery. The drills are turning at the property right now, with geophysics underway to find the next discovery on their approximately 219,257 hectares property on Somerset Island, Nunavut, Canada, which is located approximately 200 kilometers south of Teck’s profitable, past-producing Polaris (Pb-Zn) mine.

About Aston Bay Holdings

Aston Bay is a publicly traded mineral exploration company exploring for high-grade copper and gold deposits in Virginia, USA, and Nunavut, Canada. The company is led by CEO Thomas Ullrich with exploration in Virginia directed by the Company’s advisor, Don Taylor, the 2018 Thayer Lindsley Award winner for his discovery of the Taylor Pb-Zn-Ag Deposit in Arizona. The company is currently exploring the high-grade Buckingham Gold Vein in central Virginia and is in advanced stages of negotiation on other lands with high-grade copper potential in the area.

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

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

• D-Wave recently released the company’s financial results for its first fiscal quarter ending March 31, 2024, along with updates and recent achievements, including advancing quantum computing technology with the introduction of D-Wave’s fast-anneal feature and yielding of 4800+ qubit processors for its upcoming Advantage2(TM) system
• Fast-anneal is designed to accelerate quantum computations, minimizing the effects of external disturbances such as thermal fluctuations and noise, which are common barriers in quantum computing environments
• D-Wave CEO Dr. Alan Baratz is scheduled for a fireside chat on May 16, 2024, during the Needham Technology, Media, and Consumer Conference to discuss these latest advancements, strategic direction, and the measurable outcomes that quantum computing is delivering today

D-Wave Quantum (NYSE: QBTS), a leader in quantum computing systems, software, and services, recently released the company’s financial results for its first fiscal quarter ending March 31, 2024, showing YOY growth in revenue, bookings, gross profit and cash. Dr. Baratz said the company’s positive first quarter numbers reflect growing customer demand for quantum and hybrid quantum solutions that can drive measurable impact today (https://ibn.fm/ZzhJl). “Coupled with the significant technical milestones we’ve achieved with the Advantage2 prototype, we believe our progress leading the commercialization of quantum is evident.” 

During the earnings conference call, D-Wave also discussed recent technical highlights and its advancements of quantum computing technology, most notably the introduction of the fast-anneal feature. This innovation is designed to accelerate quantum computations, minimizing the effects of external disturbances such as thermal fluctuations and noise, which are common barriers in quantum computing environments. The industry-leading analyst firm IDC highlighted the importance of this breakthrough, equating it to major developments like logical qubit and error mitigation technologies in gate-based quantum systems.

Building on this innovation, D-Wave has successfully yielded 4,800+ qubit processors for its upcoming Advantage2 system. This new processor follows the earlier release of the 1200+ qubit Advantage2 prototype, which is already available through the Leap™ quantum cloud service. The development of these 4800+ qubit processors signify a crucial step in the roadmap toward the next generation of quantum computing systems.

The company also recently announced its participation in the Needham Technology, Media, and Consumer Conference. The 19th Annual Needham Technology, Media, and Consumer Conference is being held May 14-16, 2024, and is a hybrid conference with in-person and virtual meeting days. A live webcast will be available through Needham & Company (https://ibn.fm/IhnJI).

The conference will feature public and private company presentations, fireside chats, thematic panels, and 1-on-1 meetings for qualified institutional, private equity, and venture capital investors. Dr. Alan Baratz, CEO of D-Wave, is scheduled for a fireside chat on Thursday, May 16, 2024, at 1:30pm ET, and will offer an in-depth discussion about the company’s latest advancements, strategic direction, and the measurable outcomes that quantum computing is delivering today (https://ibn.fm/8d81J).

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

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

Forward Looking Statements

Certain statements in this press release are forward-looking, as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements involve risks, uncertainties, and other factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from the information expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements and may not be indicative of future results. These forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, including, among others, various factors beyond management’s control, including the risks set forth under the heading “Risk Factors” discussed under the caption “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in Part I of the company’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K or any updates discussed under the caption “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in Part II of the company’s Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and in the company’s other filings with the SEC. Undue reliance should not be placed on the forward-looking statements in this press release in making an investment decision, which are based on information available to the company on the date hereof. The company undertakes no duty to update this information unless required by law.

• Bebuzee is a Miami-based social platform and streaming service focused on developing and deploying America’s first Super App, an all-in-one app that is set to redefine the digital landscape in the Europe as well as the U.S.
• Named Bebuzee, the Super App is set to challenge the status quo in Western markets, given that the tech ecosystem has long been dominated by many small apps that each offer a single service or just a few services
• The Bebuzee Super App merges entertainment, e-commerce, and communication, representing a comprehensive portal to a growing world of apps for consumers, and what will serve as a critical address for all types of businesses

Today, the common practice for companies in the American digital landscape is to create multiple applications and websites that offer customers only a fraction of the functionalities found in the super apps dominating the Asian tech ecosystem. The distributed nature of these functionalities across different platforms has long meant that services such as communication, entertainment, e-commerce, real estate, and trading in digital assets, have been primarily available only through multiple siloed standalone apps.

As a result, consumers and businesses have traditionally had to create profiles for each app and subsequently log onto the platforms at different times to satisfy their communication, trading, entertainment, or e-commerce needs, which can be disorienting. While this rather traditional practice has largely become the norm, one company is looking to challenge the status quo and set new standards for app usage through its Super App.

Bebuzee (OTC: BBUZ), a Miami-based social platform and streaming service focused on developing and deploying America’s first Super App, recently announced the launch of its Super App, eponymously named Bebuzee, set to redefine the digital landscape in the US and Europe. According to the company, the launch of the all-in-one app shows the company’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of technology (https://ibn.fm/f9PPk).

The Super App combines multiple services into a single, intuitive platform, offering users an unparalleled experience that merges entertainment, e-commerce, and communication. It boasts a state-of-the-art messaging system that empowers users with advanced features for seamless personal and professional interactions. It also supports immersive entertainment, mobile payment and digital wallet service, location reviews, news and information resources, a flight search engine, a ticket exchange service, an NFP marketplace, and more as it continues to grow and develop.

Moreover, the Super App offers a boundless e-commerce and real estate service that enables users to shop for all types of products and services, or discover such things as global real estate listings. It also enables internal developers and third-party providers to publish mini-apps for users to activate as needed. The Super App clads these services and features with a groundbreaking design and an intuitive interface, guaranteeing a superior user experience.

“We are on the cusp of unveiling a product that will completely transform the way people interact with digital platforms,” said Joe Onyero, CEO of Bebuzee. “Our Super App is not just a technological feat; it’s a testament to our unwavering commitment to innovation and user-centric design. We are confident that this app will resonate with users in the US and European markets, offering them an unmatched digital experience.”

The Super App’s launch follows an extended period of beta testing, with Bebuzee having announced the beta launch in January last year (https://ibn.fm/faWoM). The company then relaunched its enhanced website in April 2023, which was followed by a reported influx of daily registrations by thousands of real estate agents and merchants (https://ibn.fm/MeiYs).

As described by the company: “Bebuzee is the only social platform where you can sign up as a user, real estate agent, tradesman, or e-commerce merchant, and interact with others accordingly on one simple platform. The different profile registrations give the opportunity to businesses to list important information, such as a company’s address, email, website, description, and additional key information, including AI messaging tools to automate, sort, and quickly respond to messages and digital content in a way that promotes progression of business flow.”

CEO Onyero explains that the Bebuzee platform goes beyond what agents, customers, and merchants are accustomed to with traditional marketing channels and platforms. He noted that the influx of registrations indicated the “beginnings of massive adoption and success in an industry otherwise siloed by various smaller platforms and sites.”

Bebuzee believes the launch of its Super App marks a pivotal moment in the tech industry. According to the company, the launch offers investors a unique opportunity to be part of a growing and transformative market trend spreading across the American tech ecosystem. Also participating in this trend are US tech companies, including Meta Platforms Inc. (NASDAQ: META), Amazon.com Inc. (NASDAQ: AMZN), and Uber Technologies (NYSE: UBER), which are diversifying their respective main apps to include additional services, in effect mimicking the super-app functionality (https://ibn.fm/bo7bn). And with a 2022 survey showing that 72% of consumers in Australia, Germany, the United Kingdom, and the U.S. are interested in super apps (https://ibn.fm/oiUVk), the market appears to be ready for Bebuzee’s Super App.

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

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

• The global textile industry is increasingly turning to hemp, celebrating the plant’s ability to enhance soil health, support biodiversity, suppress weeds, and increase yields
• Central American expansion is part of MedCana’s broader strategy to strengthen its presence in the global cannabis and agricultural technology sectors 
• MedCana is a pioneer in the integration of technology and agriculture, focusing on cannabis and emerging technologies

Worldwide, more farmers are opting to grow hemp because of its agricultural benefits. Leveraging that trend, Eko2o Environmental Solutions S.A.S., a majority-owned subsidiary of Software Effective Solutions (d/b/a MedCana) (OTC: SFWJ), is expanding operations into Costa Rica and the broader Central American market (https://ibn.fm/gLVkm). As the company moves forward with expansion plans, Eko2o provides invaluable insight and expertise gained from being at the forefront of agricultural innovation and offering cutting-edge solutions that enhance efficiency and sustainability in farming practices.

“Since its recent legalization in countries around the world, the global textile industry is increasingly turning to hemp, celebrating the plant’s ability to enhance soil health, support biodiversity, suppress weeds, and increase yields among subsequent crops — all while relying on little or no inputs,” stated a recent article (https://ibn.fm/Y3oCE). “Fiber hemp holds strong sustainability potential, but as it gains popularity, it is vital that we look at how it is grown.

“This means taking on board lessons learned from other fiber crops, where heavy synthetic pesticide and fertilizer use have become the norm,” the article continued. “At this early stage, the industry has a unique opportunity to shape fiber hemp standards from the soil up, setting up systems that maximize measurable benefits for the climate, ecosystems, and communities.”

Factors contributing to the company’s decision to expand into these key markets are the region’s rich biodiversity, its progressive environmental policies, and a growing demand for sustainable agricultural practices. Eko2o’s strategic expansion plans include establishing partnerships with local organizations, setting up operations that will serve as centers for research and development, and introducing its state-of-the-art agricultural technology solutions to the market.

“Costa Rica and Central America are regions known for their commitment to environmental sustainability and high agricultural potential,” said Eko2o CEO Juan Ricardo Velez. “This makes them the perfect match for Eko2o’s mission and expertise. We are excited about the opportunity to collaborate with local farmers and businesses to promote sustainable agriculture that benefits both the economy and the ecosystem.”

This expansion is part of MedCana’s broader strategy to strengthen its presence in the global cannabis and agricultural technology sectors. Recently, the company has inked several key deals and completed strategic acquisitions that have positioned the company as a key player in the industry. As a MedCana subsidiary, Eko2o has established a reputation for offering state-of-the-art greenhouse infrastructure and agricultural technology solutions. The company is committed to enhancing the efficiency and sustainability of agricultural production in Colombia and beyond.

Operating under Software Effective Solutions Corp., MedCana is a pioneer in the integration of technology and agriculture, focusing on cannabis and emerging technologies. With a vision to revolutionize the industry through innovation, MedCana is dedicated to acquiring and partnering with companies that align with its mission of promoting sustainable and technologically advanced agricultural practices.

MedCana is committed to developing clients and companies in Latin America, initially in Colombia, and partnerships with laboratories, research facilities and hospitals throughout the world. These recent acquisitions reflect the company’s focus on scientific advancements and sustainable practices as it works to achieve the broader goal of leading the cannabis industry through strategic growth and pioneering research. The company is excited about the future prospects these new assets bring to its operations and the vast opportunities for innovation they unlock.

For more information, visit the company’s website at www.MedCana.net.

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

• With cannabis legalization exploding nationwide, there are now over 19,500 incorporated U.S. cities, town, and villages that will govern local cannabis regulations
• Zoned Properties is comprised of a team of experts in cannabis zoning codes utilizing proprietary technology to identify premium cannabis dispensary locations
• Focused on its dispensary landlord model, the company has listed its largest cultivation property in Arizona for sale for $16 million

The cannabis industry is flourishing, but opening a dispensary isn’t a walk in the park. Aspiring entrepreneurs face a maze of regulations and considerations beyond simply having a quality supply chain.

Unprecedented Geographic Growth

California sparked the green wave in 1996 by becoming the first state to legalize medical marijuana. Fast forward 16 years, and Colorado and Washington shattered another barrier in 2012, allowing recreational cannabis use. Since then, the domino effect has been undeniable, with 38 states now permitting medical marijuana and 24 embracing recreational use.

In 2010, public approval for legal cannabis was just 32%. Today, with industry sales nearing $40 billion annually, approval is 91%. With that, there are now over 19,500 incorporated U.S. cities, town, and villages that will govern local cannabis regulations.

Zoning Laws and Location

Unlike many businesses, cannabis dispensaries are heavily restricted by state and local zoning ordinances. Understanding these complex regulations is crucial. Some areas completely ban dispensaries, while others have strict limitations on location. Navigating these restrictions can be a minefield, requiring expertise in real estate and community planning codes.

Not long after Colorado and Washington made history, Zoned Properties (OTCQB: ZDPY) was formed for the purpose of capitalizing on the real estate component of the burgeoning cannabis market. The company assembled a team of real estate experts specialized in different market nuances and undergirded their experience by developing a cutting-edge technology that differentiates Zoned Properties from anyone else in the industry.

The history and future of the company is brilliantly summarized in a recent Bell2Bell podcast with Zoned Properties CEO and Chairman Bryan McLaren.

Knowing Your Market

Finding the right location goes beyond zoning. Just because marijuana is legal doesn’t mean there’s specific demand. Demographics, traffic patterns, and competitor saturation all influence success. Data analysis and market research are crucial to ensure a dispensary caters to a viable customer base.

Zoned Properties’ proprietary technology plots every parcel of land in every legal cannabis state to know the codes and zoning at every location. Furthermore, the system identifies areas of high consumer demand and low supply. In other words, a perfect location for a dispensary.

Zoned Properties doesn’t just find properties; they transform them. Their team of real estate and community planning experts navigate the complex world of zoning regulations to obtain “special use”, or “conditional use” permits necessary for properties to operate as cannabis dispensaries. This entitlement significantly increases a property’s value.

The Cannabis Friendly Landlord

The business model has changed some over the years, with ZDPY management identifying the best way to build value is through owning and renting dispensaries via long-term absolute-net lease agreements. To that end, the company intends to fill its coffers by positioning to sell its largest cultivation property in Chino Valley, Arizona, which it recently listed for $16 million.

In its March 2024 corporate presentation, Zoned Properties said it had $3.1 million in cash on hand. Add in another $16 million and that is an anomaly of cash for a company with a market capitalization around only $7 million.

The dilution-free capital from the sale will be deployed to continue aggressive dispensary expansion into states exploding with growth and demand, including Ohio and Illinois.

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

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

• Remarkable gain of 62.1% over the last 12 weeks, indicating strong market momentum
• H.C. Wainwright raised its price target to $15, reflecting a bullish outlook
• Strong financial health with a current ratio of 1.37 and a low debt ratio of 0.064, showcasing a robust balance sheet

McEwen Mining (NYSE: MUX) (TSX: MUX) has been catching the attention of investors and analysts alike, demonstrating a robust performance in the stock market. With a significant uptick in its share price over the last 12 weeks, MUX has shown a remarkable gain of 62.1%. This trend of sustained positive momentum over time is a key indicator of the stock’s potential for continued growth, making it an attractive option for those looking to capitalize on price strength.

The company’s trading position at 84.2% of its 52-week high-low range puts the stock in range of a breakout. It’s worth keeping in mind that H.C. Wainwright recently increased its price target to $15, up from $13. This adjustment, as reported by TheFly, reflects a bullish outlook on MUX, with the price at the time of the announcement standing at $10.27. Such an endorsement from the brokerage community underscores the optimism surrounding McEwen Mining’s price performance.

McEwen Mining’s financial health further supports its strong market position. With a current ratio of 1.37, MUX demonstrates its capability to meet short-term obligations, although its quick ratio of 0.58 suggests a tighter liquidity position when inventory is excluded. The company’s low debt ratio of 0.064 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.085 indicate minimal reliance on debt financing, presenting a strong balance sheet. However, the interest coverage ratio of -2.18 is a factor that investors may need to consider.

With the various factors in mind, MUX’s solid liquidity position, as evidenced by cash and cash equivalents of approximately $21.99 million, alongside total assets of $638.7 million against total liabilities of about $156.2 million, indicates a robust financial foundation. This financial stability, combined with the stock’s impressive market performance over the last 3 months and the positive outlook from analysts, positions McEwen Mining Inc. as a standout opportunity to review closely as investors seek opportunities in the mining sector.

The company’s Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) further validates its potential for growth, placing it in the top 5% of over 4,000 stocks based on trends in earnings estimate revisions and EPS surprises. This ranking, coupled with an Average Broker Recommendation of #1 (Strong Buy), highlights McEwen Mining’s strong brokerage community support and its fundamental solidity, making it a compelling opportunity.

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

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

• 29 SPAC deals completed in the first quarter
• This year’s edition of The SPAC Conference will take place at New York’s luxurious Westchester Country Club on June 11-12, 2024
• The 7th Annual conference will welcome a variety of investors, private companies, and finance professionals who will delve into the latest trends within the SPAC industry
• The conference features 18+ keynote presentations and 25+ speakers
• Review the full Agenda

Special purpose acquisition companies (“SPACs”) in 2021 accounted for 63% of the US IPO market.

Following a broader market downturn in 2023, which saw a number of potential issuers postpone their IPOs, the sector seems to have normalized in 2024. Six SPAC IPOs were priced over the first quarter of 2024, with the average IPO raising $114 million, up 39% relative to the same quarter last year. Meanwhile, during that same period, 29 SPACs completed their mergers with private companies; three of these were for targets with an enterprise value of over $1 billion, with the largest of the transactions – for digital investment platform, Webull, resulting in a $7.3 billion merger.

“We believe the market has now self-corrected as SPAC IPOs have normalized, SPAC liquidations have taken excess capital out of the market and more sponsor teams are working creatively to try to get deals done,” said Don Duffy, President of financial consultancy, ICR.

With this resurgence comes opportunity. But where to begin? We have the answer.

Join prospective SPAC issuers, investors and private corporate executives to discuss the state of the SPAC market as well as its inherent opportunities at the 7th Annual SPAC Conference 2024.

Hosted by renowned industry conference organizer DealFlow Events, the SPAC Conference has earned a reputation for bringing together the most influential participants in the SPAC market, with conference attendees able to learn, network, and make new connections – all in a luxurious setting. This event is packed with actionable information, socializing and after-hours entertainment.

This year’s SPAC Conference features a number of special guest speakers as well as presentations on a range of essential topics, including Distressed Opportunities in Cross-Border SPAC Acquisitions, Elements of a Seamless and Successful SPAC Transaction, as well as an insightful review session, State of the Market – SPACs Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow. That’s just a sampling of what attendees can expect.

Some of the highly experienced and widely-respected speakers on the agenda include Doug Ellenoff, Partner, Ellenoff Grossman & Schole; Dan Nash, Co-Founder of Cohen Capital Markets; Steve Levine, CEO at EarlyBird Capital; Ed Kovary, Head of SPAC Capital Markets at BTIG; and Mark Schwartz, SPAC Capital Markets Advisory Leader at Ernst & Young, and many more. These experts are ready to share their insights and knowledge with you.

Get deals done. Make more money. It all starts with The SPAC Conference June 11-12.

This is the premiere annual event for anyone involved in any way with SPACs. Don’t miss out. Click now for additional details about the SPAC Conference, including registration.

• SOBRsafe recently secured two new contracts: a hardware/software agreement with a Southern California-based behavioral health provider operating three facilities, and a reseller agreement with a new San Antonio, Texas-based channel partner
• The behavioral health provider purchased and installed a SOBRcheck(TM) device in each of its three facilities to facilitate point-of-care alcohol screening
• SOBRcheck(TM) has been shown to streamline operations and reduce expenses, delivering results instantaneously compared to 45 seconds per person in cases where breathalyzer tests were administered
• SOBRsafe’s new channel partner purchased an initial three SOBRcheck(TM) devices and two SOBRsure(TM) wearable wristbands and plans to place an additional order for both devices
• So far in 2024, SOBRsafe has secured 18 new accounts, compared to three accounts booked in all of 2023

Committed to creating a culture of prevention and support through its suite of advanced touch-based alcohol detection solutions and a powerful backend data platform, SOBRsafe (NASDAQ: SOBR) provides next-generation technology for the behavioral health, judicial and consumer markets. In the first quarter of 2024, the company secured 16 new contracts to provide its products, which, according to the company’s Chairman and CEO, Dave Gandini, represented “just the beginning of our broad adoption in behavioral health and justice” (https://ibn.fm/d9Zc8).

As a testament to the increasing adoption of its products, SOBRsafe recently celebrated the signing of a hardware/software agreement with a Southern California-based behavioral health provider operating three facilities. The customer – who offers inpatient detoxification, residential treatment and outpatient services – purchased and installed a SOBRcheck(TM) device in each of its three facilities to facilitate point-of-care alcohol screening. SOBRcheck(TM)’s installation is expected to streamline operations at the three facilities with real-time results reporting. It is also expected to eliminate expenses through its unmanned screening capabilities (https://ibn.fm/Dma8k).

SOBRcheck(TM) was SOBRsafe’s launch product. It is a high-volume passive alcohol screening solution that is fitted with a transdermal sensor to detect alcohol excreted through the skin, providing results automatically and in seconds. In addition to alcohol detection, the device supports biometric identification; it simultaneously scans a person’s fingerprint during alcohol screening and, as a result, ties the alcohol scan results to that person’s ID in a privacy-compliant manner. This way, SOBRcheck(TM) prevents circumvention and enhances security. Beyond scanning, the device wirelessly delivers the results to a central dashboard for immediate appropriate action.

SOBRcheck(TM)’s unique capabilities have been shown to dramatically reduce the time spent screening persons and recording the results. Earlier this year, SOBRsafe released a case study that detailed how Alternatives, Inc., a Billings, Montana-based non-profit providing alternatives to incarceration for federal, state and local offenders, has benefited from integrating SOBRcheck(TM) into its operations. Alternatives installed SOBRcheck(TM) at one of its facilities, a men’s pre-release center called Alpha House that serves as an intermediate step between prisons and the community.

“When the facility was using the traditional breathalyzer, the average process time – with the breathalyzer test, checking IDs, and manually recording data – was 45 seconds per person. Conversely, SOBRcheck(TM) delivers the client’s identity verification and alcohol status in just 10 seconds,” reads the case study (https://ibn.fm/bsDFB).

In addition to the hardware/software agreement, SOBRsafe also reported the signing of a reseller agreement with a new San Antonio, Texas-based channel partner, Alcohol Monitoring Solutions (d/b/a 365IID), servicing the justice, workplace safety, and family law markets. For its part, 365IID purchased an initial three SOBRcheck(TM) devices and two SOBRsure(TM) wearable wristbands. (SOBRsure(TM), SOBRsafe’s second product, is a transdermal, alcohol-detecting wearable that provides continuous, mobile alcohol monitoring.)

The channel partner plans to place an additional order for both devices. According to the announcement, 365IID is presenting the SOBRsafe technology in the San Antonio and El Paso areas for pre-trial and Drug Court applications, as well as for workplace safety in warehouses.

With the two most recent agreements now activated, SOBRsafe has now secured 18 new accounts in 2024, compared to three accounts booked in all of 2023. The company is positioned for accelerated growth. “We believe that success breeds success and that these new relationships will spark additional and larger deals. To fuel this growth, we have a strong team of four direct sales professionals and eight behavioral health field affiliates across key markets,” said Gandini during a presentation delivered last month as part of the Lytham Partners Spotlight Series (https://ibn.fm/2CTDH).

In addition to targeting the behavioral health, judicial and consumer markets, the company is also eyeing licensing and integration. “We also continue to talk with industry players about potentially using our patent-pending SOBRsafe technology and unique data in their third-party devices and software. While nothing is imminent, a licensing or integration deal would be a means of generating non-dilutive capital and could be a source of ongoing royalty revenue,” hinted Gandini.

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

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

• Significant drought conditions in Mexico with months to go before the fall rainy season have led to concerns one of the world’s most populous cities may soon run entirely out of water, with residents currently struggling to make the most of a limited supply
• Innovative green tech engineering services company Energy and Water Development Corp. has entered an MOU with some of the city’s residents to create first-of-its-kind Off-Grid Atmosphere Water Generation Plant that will extract moisture from the air to ease the crisis
• The facility is expected to generate about 3.2 million liters of water annually, with a later phase planned to produce millions more liters of water than the original plant
• EAWD is headquartered in Florida and has operations in Germany, where it is also developing solar-powered Off-Grid electric vehicle (“EV”) Charging Stations

A group of indigenous and non-indigenous people, gathering at an archaeological site in Mexico City earlier to pray for rain, highlighted concerns about a drought gripping much of the country (https://ibn.fm/fH3Ix).

Around 60 percent of Mexico is experiencing moderate to exceptional drought, according to the National Commission on Water (https://ibn.fm/No9gG). Mexico City is facing a severe water crisis, with experts fretting the metropolis of nearly 22 million people may run entirely out of water before the rainy season begins in the fall (https://ibn.fm/S79EA).

Amid the crisis, “several significant landowners of the Magdalena Contreras Municipality” of Mexico City, where more than 200,000 of the city’s residents live, signed a joint Memorandum of Understanding (“MOU”) with Florida-based green tech engineering services company Energy and Water Development (OTCQB: EAWD) in December to deploy the company’s first Off-Grid Atmosphere Water Generation Plant on the American continent.

“The Off-Grid Atmosphere Water Generation Plant is set to revolutionize how we address water scarcity challenges,” Energy and Water Development Corp. CEO Irma Velazquez stated in the company’s announcement of the project (https://ibn.fm/wp4SA). “In its initial phase, the plant is expected to produce approximately 3.2 millions of liters of water annually by extracting moisture directly from the air. This project represents a beacon of hope in the face of severe water scarcity and offers a sustainable, off-grid solution to ensure a reliable and sustainable source of clean water for Mexico City residents.”

The first phase of the plant will span 5,000 square meters, with subsequent phases adding a 30-hectare facility capable of producing millions more liters of water than the original plant. EAWD has also sold a similar system in Germany, and the company is working to develop additional orders.

EAWD is focused on delivering water and energy to extreme environments, emphasizing self-sufficient energy-supplied water generation and green energy production. Its patent-pending off-grid, self-sufficient energy supply atmosphere water generation (“AWG”) systems and solar-powered EAWD Off-Grid EV Charging Stations are built in Hamburg, Germany through subsidiaries EAWD Deutschland and EAWD Logistik.

Energy and Water Development Corp.’s most recent annual financial statement cited a United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (“UNESCO”) report noting that worldwide 2 billion people (26 percent of the planet’s population) do not have safe drinking water and 3.6 billion lack access to safely managed sanitation.

“This organization has identified an urgent need to establish strong international mechanisms to prevent the global water crisis from spiraling out of control,” the filing states (https://ibn.fm/YQTKI). “Recognizing the pressing nature of these challenges, EAWD is committed to crafting sustainable and renewable solutions. As such, EAWD is poised to become a pivotal player in an industry that is not only rapidly expanding, but also unlocking numerous new markets in response to these urgent environmental issues.”

In associated news, the company announced the April appointment of Bevilacqua PLLC as its new counsel for matters related to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) and capital markets to strengthen its compliance and legal operations under market guidelines. EAWD regards the move as evidence of its commitment to uphold rigorous regulatory standards and promote corporate transparency (https://ibn.fm/YtdsJ).

For more information, visit the company’s website at www.Energy-Water.com.

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

• Lexaria, a global innovator in drug delivery platforms, just announced its newest relationship with the National Research Council of Canada (“NRC”)
• Specific molecular characteristics of the glucagon-peptide 1 (“GLP-1”) drug, semaglutide, processed with Lexaria’s patented DehydraTECH(TM) technology, will be evaluated
• Previous research has shown that using a DehydraTECH-semaglutide capsule composition yields a 43% higher peak level of semaglutide in blood compared to Rybelsus(R). This has potential for increased weight-loss and diabetic control
• Lexaria’s management is confident that this partnership will complement the company’s animal and human pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic studies for the 2024 calendar year

Lexaria Bioscience (NASDAQ: LEXX), a global innovator in drug delivery platforms, has announced a partnership with the National Research Council of Canada (“NRC”) that will pursue an applied research program to evaluate specific molecular characteristics of the company’s patented DehydraTECH(TM) technology processed with glucagon-peptide 1 (“GLP-1”) drug, semaglutide, related to its mode of action and performance (https://ibn.fm/7ThTn).

The work program will utilize simulated gastric fluid, mimicking conditions in the human gut. In addition, various testing methods will be employed, among them size exclusion chromatography (“SEC”), polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (“PAGE”), dynamic light scattering (“DLS”), and matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization mass spectrometry (“MALDI MS”).

GLP-1 drugs have shown significant benefits in weight management and addressing diabetes. Previous research has shown that using a DehydraTECH-semaglutide capsule composition yields a 43% higher peak level of semaglutide in blood than an unprocessed Rybelsus(R) tablet. The benefits also extend to doing away with painful injections, which are the norm with GLP-1 delivery.

Lexaria’s management believes this partnership could help fast-track the company’s push for the adoption of DehydraTECH with GLP-1 drugs. It will also be integral in showcasing the potential of the technology while inching the company closer to tapping into an industry projected to be valued at $133.5 billion by 2030 (https://ibn.fm/urgRt).

“We are excited about our partnership with the NRC for the mode of action molecular characterization of DehydraTECH-GLP-1 drugs. This work program could potentially provide data to assist Lexaria’s efforts in partnering with the pharmaceutical industry for the most rapid introduction possible of DehydraTECH with GLP-1 drugs,” noted John Docherty, Lexaria’s president.

This partnership follows Lexaria’s resolve to double down on GLP-1 studies for the 2024 calendar year. It also follows the recent independent third-party ethics review board approval for its GLP-1 human pilot study #2, which seeks to explore the oral delivery of GLP-1 drugs. In addition, in March Lexaria announced details of its WEIGHT-A24-1 animal study which will examine diabetes and weight loss effects of DehydraTECH-processed GLP-1 drugs and DehydraTECH-processed cannabidiol, alone and in combination (https://ibn.fm/kSOLl).

Lexaria’s management is confident that by identifying the molecular behavior of DehydraTECH-processed pure semaglutide compositions, the findings will complement the company’s animal and human pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic studies for the 2024 calendar year. In addition, it is hopeful that this could ultimately lead to alternative formulations with enhanced performance. The program is expected to be completed in early August, with results reported as soon as possible after that.

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