Global Business Magazine https://thegbm.com Business news, opinion, reviews, interviews Wed, 08 Jan 2025 00:14:00 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.7.1 https://thegbm.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/Bizmag-logo.png Global Business Magazine https://thegbm.com 32 32 195744517 Nextracker Inc. Class Action Lawsuit Alert: Johnson Fistel Announces Shareholders with Losses Should Contact the Law Firm for More Information https://thegbm.com/nextracker-inc-class-action-lawsuit-alert-johnson-fistel-announces-shareholders-with-losses-should-contact-the-law-firm-for-more-information/ https://thegbm.com/nextracker-inc-class-action-lawsuit-alert-johnson-fistel-announces-shareholders-with-losses-should-contact-the-law-firm-for-more-information/#respond Wed, 08 Jan 2025 00:14:00 +0000 https://thegbm.com/nextracker-inc-class-action-lawsuit-alert-johnson-fistel-announces-shareholders-with-losses-should-contact-the-law-firm-for-more-information SAN DIEGO, Jan. 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Johnson Fistel, LLP announces that a class action lawsuit has commenced on behalf of investors of Nextracker Inc. (NASDAQ: NXT). The lawsuit seeks to recover losses on behalf of investors who acquired securities between February 1, 2024 and August 1, 2024. Investors have until February 25, 2025, to apply to the Court to be appointed as lead plaintiff in the lawsuit.

If you incurred significant losses and want to act as the lead plaintiff in the Nextracker Inc. class action lawsuit or determine if you are eligible to receive a potential recovery of your losses, please submit your details here: https://www.johnsonfistel.com/investigations/nextracker-class-action

Contact for More Information: James Baker, (619) 814-4471, jimb@johnsonfistel.com or fjohnson@johnsonfistel.com 

The Nextracker class action lawsuit alleges that throughout the Class Period defendants made false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: (i) the impact of project delays on Nextracker’s business, financial results, and prospects was far more severe than represented to investors; (ii) permitting and interconnection delays had materially impaired Nextracker’s ability to convert backlog into revenue at historical conversion rates; (iii) Nextracker had been unable to offset the negative impact from project delays through increased client demand and the purported ability to pull forward its other projects in the manner represented by defendants; (iv) Nextracker did not possess the competitive advantages which purportedly shielded it from industry-wide headwinds or the ability to effectively offset the adverse effects of project delays as claimed by defendants; and (v) consequently, defendants lacked a reasonable basis for their positive statements about Nextracker’s business, financial results, and prospects.

Investor Action Steps: Shareholders who incurred losses during the class period, have until February 25, 2025, to move the court to become a lead plaintiff in this action. A lead plaintiff will act on behalf of all other class members in directing the class-action lawsuit. The lead plaintiff can select a law firm of its choice to litigate the class-action lawsuit. An investor’s ability to share any potential future recovery of the class action lawsuit is not dependent upon serving as lead plaintiff.

About Johnson Fistel, LLP | Top Law Firm, Securities Fraud, Investors Rights:
Johnson Fistel, LLP is a nationally recognized shareholder rights law firm with offices in California, New York, Georgia, and Colorado. The firm represents individual and institutional investors in shareholder derivative and securities class action lawsuits. We also extend our services to foreign investors who have purchased on US exchanges. Stay updated with news on stock drops and learn how Johnson Fistel, LLP can help you recover your losses. For more information about the firm and its attorneys, please visit http://www.johnsonfistel.com.

Attorney advertising.
Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.
Services may be performed by attorneys in any of our offices.

Johnson Fistel, LLP has paid for the dissemination of this promotional communication, and Frank J. Johnson is the attorney responsible for its content.

Contact:
Johnson Fistel, LLP
501 W. Broadway, Suite 800, San Diego, CA 92101
James Baker, Investor Relations or Frank J. Johnson, Esq., (619) 814-4471
jimb@johnsonfistel.com or fjohnson@johnsonfistel.com

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Indian stocks will benefit from the Trump 2.0 era, portfolio manager says https://thegbm.com/indian-stocks-will-benefit-from-the-trump-2-0-era-portfolio-manager-says/ Tue, 07 Jan 2025 23:29:32 +0000 https://thegbm.com/indian-stocks-will-benefit-from-the-trump-2-0-era-portfolio-manager-says

In this article

Investors eyeing up firms with the potential to become the “blue chip companies of the future” should look to India, according to GIB Asset Management’s Kunal Desai.

The portfolio manager said India’s geopolitical positioning is “favorable in this Trump 2.0 era” as investors assess the country’s ability to take advantage of a possible trade war between China and the U.S.

President-elect Donald Trump has pledged to impose big tariffs on goods from China when he takes office. Tariffs on goods imported from China into the U.S. will likely benefit India, analysts say, as companies shift manufacturing to the South Asian nation to avoid duties.

Speaking to CNBC’s Silvia Amaro, Desai described India as “probably one of the most attractive, secular and scalable investment opportunities globally.”

As well as geopolitics, Desai cited the country’s monetary sovereignty, improving return on equity — a key measure of a company’s profitability — and increased private investment as reasons to invest.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “Make in India” initiative has also been cited by analysts as a major boon for some Indian manufacturing companies.

For Desai, “one of the most attractive areas is cables, power cables and wires, which go into the development of urbanization and infrastructure projects in India.”

He said these businesses were not just looking at India as a “core market,” but were also seeking to expand and start exporting.

“And given the difficulties that Chinese companies have had from an export standpoint, a number of Indian companies are taking advantage as customers look to take a dual source approach to their supply chain,” Desai said.

Upbeat on China stocks

Despite investor worry over Trump accelerating “hawkish Chinese policies” on his return to office, the portfolio manager said increased U.S.-China tensions — as well as a widely expected 2025 GDP growth target of around 5% and fiscal stimulus from Beijing — could “force the hand of Chinese policymakers, essentially to revive domestic animal spirits.”

Desai said businesses with “high brand power,” competitive advantages and high profitability are the most likely to benefit from a potential consumer rebound in the coming years.

“So, this creates quite an interesting opportunity of companies which have seen their relative valuations fall but can now create a rosier outlook for the years ahead,” he said, adding that Yum China could be a major beneficiary.

Yum China is one of China’s biggest fast-food restaurants within the Yum Brands umbrella, which includes KFC, Taco Bell and Pizza Hut.

Desai also expects Chinese e-commerce giant JD.com, among the top 10 holdings in his portfolio, to benefit from a possible consumer rebound.

The next 18 months, he said, will see areally powerful dividend, buyback, capital return story to come through in China, which is what we’ve seen actually in the U.S. over the last four or five years.”

By CNBC

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Currency Exchange International, Corp. Announces Strategic Review of Exchange Bank of Canada https://thegbm.com/currency-exchange-international-corp-announces-strategic-review-of-exchange-bank-of-canada/ https://thegbm.com/currency-exchange-international-corp-announces-strategic-review-of-exchange-bank-of-canada/#respond Tue, 07 Jan 2025 23:20:00 +0000 https://thegbm.com/currency-exchange-international-corp-announces-strategic-review-of-exchange-bank-of-canada TORONTO, Jan. 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Currency Exchange International, Corp. (“CXI” or the “Company”) (TSX: CXI) (OTC: CURN), announced today that a Special Committee of independent directors is actively considering a range of strategic options for its wholly-owned subsidiary, Exchange Bank of Canada (“EBC”), a federally chartered non-deposit-taking Canadian Schedule I bank. The strategic review aims to explore opportunities to maximize long-term value for shareholders and focus the Company’s resources towards its profitable U.S. operations.

The formal review of the future of EBC is expected to enhance performance and improve the return on CXI’s capital. INFOR Financial Inc. has been retained as the Company’s strategic advisor to assist in this process.

The Board of Directors and Management are focused on assessing shareholder interests and evaluating the optimal path forward for CXI on executing its strategic plan. CXI emphasizes that there is no assurance the strategic review will result in any specific transaction. The Company remains committed to ensuring minimal, if any, disruption to all its stakeholders throughout this process.  

About Currency Exchange International, Corp.

Currency Exchange International is in the business of providing comprehensive foreign exchange technology and processing services for banks, credit unions, businesses, and consumers in the United States and select clients globally. Primary products and services include the exchange of foreign currencies, wire transfer payments, Global EFTs, and foreign cheque clearing. Wholesale customers are served through its proprietary FX software applications delivered on its web-based interface, www.cxifx.com (“CXIFX”), its related APIs with core banking platforms, and through personal relationship managers. Consumers are served through Company-owned retail branches, agent retail branches, and its e-commerce platform, order.ceifx.com.

The Group’s wholly-owned Canadian subsidiary, Exchange Bank of Canada, based in Toronto, Canada, provides foreign exchange and international payment services in Canada and select international foreign jurisdictions. Clients are served through the use of its proprietary software, www.ebcfx.com (“EBCFX”), related APIs to core banking platforms, and personal relationship managers.

Contact Information

For further information please contact:
Bill Mitoulas
Investor Relations
(416) 479-9547
Email: bill.mitoulas@cxifx.com
Website: www.cxifx.com

CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION

This press release includes forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities laws. This forward-looking information includes, or may be based upon, estimates, forecasts, and statements as to management’s expectations with respect to, among other things, the merits and impact of the evaluation of strategic alternatives for Exchange Bank of Canada (EBC). Forward-looking statements are identified by the use of terms and phrases such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “may,” “plan,” “predict,” “preliminary,” “project,” “will,” “would,” and similar terms and phrases, including references to assumptions.

Forward-looking information is based on the opinions and estimates of management at the date such information is provided and on information available to management at such time. Forward-looking information involves significant risks, uncertainties, and assumptions that could cause the Company’s actual results, performance, or achievements to differ materially from the results discussed or implied in such forward-looking information. Actual results may differ materially from results indicated in forward-looking information due to a number of factors including, without limitation, potential disruptions to customer relationships or operations during the review process, challenges in developing and adopting a strategic plan, regulatory requirements and timing related to EBC’s operations, risks associated with any potential transition, potential disruptions to operations during the transition period, risks associated with the outcome and implementation of the strategic review, competition in the foreign exchange and payments industries, fluctuations in financial performance caused by global economic conditions, competition in the foreign exchange and payments industries, reliance on key personnel, and fluctuations in financial performance caused by global economic conditions or changes in foreign currency markets.

Additional risks include the ability of the Company to comply with regulatory requirements, the competitive nature of the foreign exchange industry, the impact of infectious diseases or the evolving situation in Ukraine on factors relevant to the Company’s business, currency exchange risks, the need for the Company to manage its planned growth, the effects of product development and the need for continued technological change, protection of the Company’s proprietary rights, the effect of government regulation and compliance on the Company and the industry in which it operates, network security risks, the ability of the Company to maintain properly working systems, theft and risk of physical harm to personnel, reliance on key management personnel, unexpected losses or challenges associated with customer attrition during the strategic review process, global economic deterioration negatively impacting tourism, volatile securities markets impacting security pricing in a manner unrelated to operating performance and impeding access to capital or increasing the cost of capital, as well as the factors identified throughout this press release and in the section entitled “Financial Risk Factors” of the Company’s Management’s Discussion and Analysis for the three and nine months ended July 31, 2024.

The forward-looking information contained in this press release represents management’s expectations as of the date hereof (or as of the date such information is otherwise stated to be presented) and is subject to change after such date. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as required under applicable securities laws.

The Toronto Stock Exchange does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release. No stock exchange, securities commission, or other regulatory authority has approved or disapproved the information contained in this press release.

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Honda reveals two new ‘0 Series’ EVs to be produced in Ohio https://thegbm.com/honda-reveals-two-new-0-series-evs-to-be-produced-in-ohio/ Tue, 07 Jan 2025 19:18:42 +0000 https://thegbm.com/honda-reveals-two-new-0-series-evs-to-be-produced-in-ohio

In this article

Honda 0 Saloon & Honda 0 SUV prototypes
Honda

LAS VEGAS — Honda Motor on Tuesday at the CES tech conference revealed the company’s newest electric vehicles that are set to be produced at a multibillion-dollar manufacturing complex in central Ohio.

The vehicles are the Honda 0 Saloon, which is an updated version of a concept car revealed last year at CES, and the Honda 0 SUV. Both “0 Series” vehicles are prototypes, which means they’re intended for customer production but could still see some changes ahead.

Honda said production models based on both prototypes are expected to launch in North America in 2026, starting with the SUV and then the Saloon. The automaker declined to release specific details about the new EVs such as expected pricing, range and performance.

Honda 0 Saloon prototype
Honda

The exteriors of the vehicles are noticeably different than Honda’s current models, featuring sleek, future-esque designs. Honda said the new 0 Series vehicles are being developed with three core principles in mind: “Thin, light and wise.”

Lance Woelfer, vice president of American Honda Motor automobile sales, said the automaker took feedback from the vehicles it revealed last year for the new models.

“That’s the reason we do it, is it gives us an opportunity to get some input and feedback from the community,” he told CNBC. “It gave us additional confidence.”

Honda 0 Saloon prototype interior
Honda

Honda on Tuesday also announced a new vehicle operating system for the Honda 0 Series vehicles called “Asimo OS” that the company said will offer highly automated driving technologies such as hands-free driving.

The name Asimo is in reference to a Honda humanoid robot that the automaker first introduced more than 20 years ago at CES.

Honda is planning to install Asimo OS in all Honda 0 Series models, including production models of the Honda 0 SUV and Honda 0 Saloon.

Honda 0 SUV prototype
Honda

It’s unclear how the announced plans for a merger between Honda and fellow Japanese automaker Nissan Motor could impact any of the company’s product plans.

The 0 Series EVs from Honda were revealed a day after the company’s tie-up with Sony, called Afeela, unveiled its first EV model. The car, called AFEELA 1, is expected to go on sale in California this year, followed by deliveries in 2026.

California is the country’s largest EV market, where automakers have routinely launched such models first to assist sales and meet the state’s strict fuel economy and emissions standards.

The company said the AFEELA 1 sedan will be available in two trims, with prices starting from $89,900.

By CNBC

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LYB to discuss fourth-quarter results Friday, Jan. 31, 2025 https://thegbm.com/lyb-to-discuss-fourth-quarter-results-friday-jan-31-2025/ https://thegbm.com/lyb-to-discuss-fourth-quarter-results-friday-jan-31-2025/#respond Tue, 07 Jan 2025 11:30:00 +0000 https://thegbm.com/lyb-to-discuss-fourth-quarter-results-friday-jan-31-2025 HOUSTON and LONDON, Jan. 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — LyondellBasell (NYSE: LYB), a leader in the global chemical industry, will announce its fourth-quarter 2024 financial results before the U.S. market opens Friday, Jan. 31, followed by a webcast and teleconference to discuss the results at 11 a.m. EST.

Teleconference and webcast details
Friday, Jan. 31, 2025
11 a.m. EST
Hosted by David Kinney, head of investor relations
Access the webcast 10 to 15 minutes prior to the start of the call at www.lyondellbasell.com/earnings.

Toll-free teleconference dial-in numbers
Participant/Guest toll-free: 877-407-8029
Participant/Guest toll: 201-689-8029
Participant/Guest: CallMe link

Presentation slides
Presentation slides will be available at the time of the teleconference and afterward at www.lyondellbasell.com/earnings.    

Replay information
A replay of the call will be available from 1 p.m. EST Jan. 31 until March 2, 2025. The replay dial-in numbers are:
Toll-free: 877-660-6853
Toll: 201-612-7415
Access ID: 13746203

About LyondellBasell 

We are LyondellBasell (NYSE: LYB) – a leader in the global chemical industry creating solutions for everyday sustainable living. Through advanced technology and focused investments, we are enabling a circular and low carbon economy. Across all we do, we aim to unlock value for our customers, investors and society. As one of the world’s largest producers of polymers and a leader in polyolefin technologies, we develop, manufacture and market high-quality and innovative products for applications ranging from sustainable transportation and food safety to clean water and quality healthcare. For more information, please visit www.lyondellbasell.com or follow @LyondellBasell on LinkedIn.

CONTACT: Nick Facchin LyondellBasell 713-623-3643 nick.facchin@lyondellbasell.com 

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Verona Pharma Reports Strong Ohtuvayre™ Launch and Provides Preliminary Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2024 Financial Highlights https://thegbm.com/verona-pharma-reports-strong-ohtuvayre-launch-and-provides-preliminary-fourth-quarter-and-full-year-2024-financial-highlights/ https://thegbm.com/verona-pharma-reports-strong-ohtuvayre-launch-and-provides-preliminary-fourth-quarter-and-full-year-2024-financial-highlights/#respond Tue, 07 Jan 2025 11:00:00 +0000 https://thegbm.com/verona-pharma-reports-strong-ohtuvayre-launch-and-provides-preliminary-fourth-quarter-and-full-year-2024-financial-highlights Approximately $36 million and $42 million net product sales of Ohtuvayre for the fourth quarter and full year 2024, respectively

More than 3,500 unique prescribers and over 16,000 prescriptions filled in 2024 across a broad COPD population

Approximately 45% of Tier 1 HCPs prescribed Ohtuvayre

LONDON and RALEIGH, N.C., Jan. 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Verona Pharma plc (Nasdaq: VRNA) (“Verona Pharma” or the “Company”), a biopharmaceutical company focused on respiratory diseases, announces preliminary unaudited net product sales for the fourth quarter and full year ended December 31, 2024, and provides a corporate update.

“2024 was another transformational year for Verona with the approval and US launch of Ohtuvayre (ensifentrine) for the maintenance treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (“COPD”),” said David Zaccardelli, Pharm. D., President and Chief Executive Officer. “We are very pleased to report the exceptionally strong start to the launch of Ohtuvayre continues with more than 3,500 unique healthcare professionals (“HCPs”) prescribing Ohtuvayre and over 16,000 prescriptions filled of which approximately one-third were patient refills in 2024. During these initial 20 weeks, key metrics showed month over month growth including number of unique prescribers, new patient prescriptions, refill prescriptions, and net sales while maintaining approximately two weeks of inventory at the specialty pharmacies. Specifically, filled prescriptions increased by over 35% each month in the fourth quarter and physicians continued to prescribe Ohtuvayre across a broad COPD population including those receiving background single, dual and triple therapy.

“We recorded net product sales of approximately $36 million in the fourth quarter and $42 million for full year 2024. While it is still early in the launch, feedback from HCPs and patients is consistently positive including robust refill rates, and increasing prescriber depth with over 150 HCPs prescribing Ohtuvayre to more than 20 patients in their practice. These trends reinforce our belief that Ohtuvayre’s bronchodilator and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory activity can re-define the COPD treatment paradigm. We are excited by the initial impact of Ohtuvayre and look forward to building on this momentum in 2025.”

Program Updates and Key Milestones

  • Ohtuvayre’s product specific J-code, J7601, became effective on January 1, 2025.
  • In November 2024, the Company completed enrollment in a Phase 2 dose-ranging trial with glycopyrrolate, a long-acting muscarinic antagonist (“LAMA”), supporting a fixed-dose combination program for the maintenance treatment of COPD via a nebulizer. Results will support initiation of a Phase 2b trial with a fixed dose combination of ensifentrine with glycopyrrolate in the third quarter of 2025.
  • The Company continues to enroll subjects in a Phase 2 trial to assess the efficacy and safety of nebulized ensifentrine in patients with non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis (“NCFBE”).

Preliminary Fourth Quarter 2024 Financial Results

  • Cash position: Although the Company has not finalized its full financial results for the fourth quarter and fiscal year ended December 31, 2024, the Company expects to report that its cash and cash equivalents at December 31, 2024, were approximately $400 million (December 31, 2023: $271.8 million). The Company sold $100 million of its ordinary shares, in the form of ADSs, under its “at the market” equity offering program with Jefferies at an average price of $39.35 per ADS (equivalent to $4.92 per ordinary share) in the fourth quarter of 2024.
  • Product sales: The Company expects to report that net product sales were approximately $36 million for the fourth quarter ended December 31, 2024 (Q4 2023: $0 million) related to product sales of Ohtuvayre. The Company received FDA approval on June 26, 2024 and the product was commercially available beginning in August 2024.

Set forth in this release are certain estimated preliminary financial results for the fourth quarter and fiscal year ended December 31, 2024. These estimates are based on the information available to the Company at this time. The Company’s financial closing procedures for the fourth quarter and full year 2024 are not yet complete and, as a result, actual results may vary from the estimated preliminary results presented here due to the completion of the Company’s financial closing and review procedures, the execution of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting, final adjustments and other developments that may arise between now and the time the financial results for the fourth quarter and fiscal year ended December 31, 2024, are finalized. The estimated preliminary financial results have not been audited or reviewed by the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm. These estimates should not be viewed as a substitute for the Company’s full interim or annual financial statements. Accordingly, you should not place undue reliance on this preliminary data.

For further information please contact:

Verona Pharma plc Tel: +1-844-341-9901
Victoria Stewart, Senior Director of Investor Relations and Communications IR@veronapharma.com
Argot Partners
US Investor Enquiries
Tel: +1-212-600-1902
verona@argotpartners.com
Ten Bridge Communications
International / US Media Enquiries
Tel: +1-781-316-4424
tbcverona@tenbridgecommunications.com
Wendy Ryan  

About Verona Pharma

Verona Pharma is a biopharmaceutical company focused on developing and commercializing innovative therapies for the treatment of chronic respiratory diseases with significant unmet medical needs. OhtuvayreTM (ensifentrine) is the Company’s first commercial product and the first inhaled therapy for the maintenance treatment of COPD that combines bronchodilator and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory activities in one molecule. Ensifentrine has potential applications in non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis, cystic fibrosis, asthma and other respiratory diseases. For more information, please visit www.veronapharma.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, as amended. All statements contained in this press release other than statements of historical fact should be considered forward-looking statements. Words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “plan,” “expect,” “intend,” “may,” “potential,” “prepare,” “possible” and similar words and expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the potential benefits and efficacy of our drug Ohtuvayre to treat adult patients in the US with COPD, our anticipated financial results for the fourth quarter and full year ended December 31, 2024, the commercial growth of Ohtuvayre, and statements regarding our two recently initiated Phase 2 clinical trials.

These forward-looking statements are based on management’s current expectations. These statements are neither promises nor guarantees, but involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other important factors that may cause our actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from our expectations expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements, including, but not limited to, the following: risks related to the completion of closing and review procedures and the execution of our internal control of financial reporting; our limited operating history; our need for additional funding to complete development and commercialization of Ohtuvayre which may not be available and which may force us to delay, reduce or eliminate our development or commercialization efforts; our reliance on the success of Ohtuvayre, our only commercial product; our reliance on third-party manufacturers and suppliers; the efficacy of Ohtuvayre compared to competing drugs; our ability to successfully commercialize Ohtuvayre; serious adverse, undesirable or unacceptable side effects associated with Ohtuvayre which could adversely affect our ability to commercialize Ohtuvayre; failure to develop Ohtuvayre for additional indications, alternate delivery methods, or as a combination therapy; failure to obtain approval for and commercialize Ohtuvayre in multiple major pharmaceutical markets; our commercial capabilities and infrastructure, including sales, marketing, operations, distribution, and reimbursement infrastructure, may not be adequate to successfully commercialize Ohtuvayre; lawsuits related to patents covering Ohtuvayre and the potential for our patents to be found invalid or unenforceable; lawsuits related to our licensing of patents and know-how from third parties for the commercialization of Ohtuvayre; changes in our tax rates, unavailability of certain tax credits or reliefs or exposure to additional tax liabilities or assessments that could affect our profitability, and audits by tax authorities that could result in additional tax payments for prior periods; the terms of our credit agreement and the revenue interest purchase and sale agreement (“RIPSA”) place restrictions on our operating and financial flexibility, and if we fail to comply with certain covenants in the RIPSA, our results of operations and financial condition may be harmed; our vulnerability to natural disasters, global economic factors, geo-political actions and unexpected events, including health epidemics or pandemics; and the other important factors discussed under the caption “Risk Factors” in our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2024, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) on November 4, 2024, as such factors may be updated from time to time in our other filings with the SEC. We disclaim any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement contained in this press release, even if subsequent events cause our views to change, except as required under applicable law. These forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as representing our views as of any date subsequent to the date of this press release.

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While Apple negotiates Indonesia sales ban, another Chinese smartphone maker is entering the country https://thegbm.com/while-apple-negotiates-indonesia-sales-ban-another-chinese-smartphone-maker-is-entering-the-country/ Tue, 07 Jan 2025 01:27:04 +0000 https://thegbm.com/while-apple-negotiates-indonesia-sales-ban-another-chinese-smartphone-maker-is-entering-the-country

Pictured here is the Grand Indonesia shopping mall in Jakarta on Friday, Jan. 5, 2024.
Bloomberg | Bloomberg | Getty Images

BEIJING — Huawei spinoff Honor announced Tuesday it plans to launch smartphone sales in Indonesia by the end of March, becoming the latest Chinese company to enter a market that has banned Apple’s iPhone 16 over domestic production requirements.

Indonesia requires that for smartphones sold in the country, 40% of their components must be domestically sourced. That rule has prevented Apple from selling its newest phone in the market, where it is reportedly negotiating a $1 billion investment.

Honor has an office in Indonesia and is working with one local manufacturing partner, Justin Li, the Chinese company’s president of South Pacific operations, told reporters last week. He said a folding phone will be among Honor’s first set of locally sold products — 10 items in the medium to high-end segment.

The company aims to offer around 30 products from phones to tablets in Indonesia by the end of the year. The Southeast Asian country is home to the world’s fourth-largest country by population, just behind the United States.

“Although 80% of the market is dominated by devices priced under $200, as Southeast Asia’s largest and fastest-growing economy, Indonesia presents immense potential for long-term growth,” Canalys analyst Chiew Le Xuan said in an email.

“Indonesia is emerging as a key market in Southeast Asia, driven by rapid economic growth and an expanding middle class,” Chiew said, noting the country accounts for 35% of smartphone shipments in the region and can serve as a strategic regional hub.

As of November, Oppo, Xiaomi and Transsion — all China-based — held the top three spots in Indonesia by smartphone shipments, according to Canalys. Shenzhen-based Oppo in November held its global launch for its flagship Find X8 phone in Indonesia, where the company also has a factory.

Samsung ranked fourth in Indonesia with a 16% share, tied with Vivo, another Chinese brand, the Canalys data showed.

Excluding China and Japan, just under 8% of Apple’s sales come from Asia-Pacific.

Li claimed the decision to enter Indonesia was independent of Apple’s presence in the country, and was confident in Honor’s ability to compete. He said Honor had observed the Indonesian market for years, before doubling down on expansion efforts in the last half year.

While he declined to share a current breakdown of Indonesian to Chinese staff, Li said Honor is still hiring in the country and aims to have a predominately local staff in the future.

Honor plans to open at least 10 of its own stores in Indonesia this year, in addition to selling through a local retailer, Li said.

Outside of China, Honor primarily sells in Europe and parts of Southeast Asia. Its phones are not directly sold in the U.S. The company claimed that in December, more than half of its sales came from outside China for the first time.

Honor, which is planning to go public, was spun off from Chinese telecommunications giant Huawei in November 2020 after the parent company was hit by U.S. sanctions. Huawei said it does not hold any shares in Honor or have involvement in business decisions.

By CNBC

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This Japanese man earned $80,000 a year from ‘doing nothing’ https://thegbm.com/this-japanese-man-earned-80000-a-year-from-doing-nothing/ Tue, 07 Jan 2025 00:29:09 +0000 https://thegbm.com/this-japanese-man-earned-80000-a-year-from-doing-nothing

Shoji Morimoto’s day job involves loaning himself out to strangers who seek someone’s company for almost anything at all.

Lee Ying Shan

When Shoji Morimoto was fired from his office job in 2018, his superior had criticized him for lacking initiative and “not doing anything” of value for the company. Joke’s on him, because Morimoto, now 41, has since spun a lucrative career out of doing nothing.

Known as the rental “do nothing” guy in Japan, Morimoto’s day job involves loaning himself out to strangers who seek someone’s company for almost anything at all. These requests can range from waiting for a marathon runner at the finishing line, to being video-called while a bored client redecorates and cleans her room. Once, a client who could not attend a concert with a friend rented Morimoto to take her place.

Shoji Morimoto reserving a spot for his client in a park.

Shoji Morimoto

From the ludicrous to the mundane, Morimoto will simply show up and “do nothing” other than what he was asked to do — except sex.

“I have been put in objectively difficult situations, such as standing in line under the blazing sun, standing for hours in the freezing cold, attending parties with only strangers, and standing alone on a stage in front of a large audience without doing anything,” the father of a seven-year-old told CNBC Make It.

“However, no matter what misfortune I have experienced, I feel that it is something special that only happened because I do this job, so I can still cherish it,” he said.

Not a therapist

Morimoto’s longest one-off task was a 17-hour trip sitting on the same rail line, end to end, from early morning until the last train. “We made 13 laps on the Yamanote (train station) Line,” he said.

There have also been several requests for Morimoto to be a listening ear on clients’ bad days. However, when it comes to conversations, Morimoto offers the bare minimum and the simplest of answers. In other words, he nods and listens attentively, but makes it a point not to play therapist. 

Morimoto told CNBC he receives about 1,000 requests per year, and lets his clients decide how much to pay him. He used to charge a flat rate of between 10,000 yen and 30,000 yen ($65 to $195) for a two- to three-hour session, and earned around $80,000 last year.

Morimoto introduced the pay-as-you-wish model late last year.

“I charge a voluntary fee, so I don’t know if it will be sustainable, but I’m having fun trying to see if it’s sustainable,” said Morimoto, who added that his goal was not to make a living or sustain himself but to “simply live life and enjoy it.”

CNBC accompanied Morimoto for two hours, taking him to a piglet cafe in Tokyo where customers can sip on a drink and interact with litters of piglets.

Lee Ying Shan

To put his services to the test, CNBC Make It accompanied Morimoto for two hours, taking him to a piglet cafe in Tokyo where customers can sip on a drink and interact with litters of piglets. 

I’d initially planned to go by myself, but entering a packed cafe and seeing customers in pairs and small groups made me feel a tinge of relief I had Morimoto’s company.

There was another perk: He could take photos of me while I played with the pigs.

After a few initial exchanges in my broken Japanese and translation assistance from Google, no further small talk was needed as I left him to his own devices and concentrated on my pig. I then realized the appeal of Morimoto: Clients like me get to enjoy an activity in a social setting without being judged for going solo. Even better, I don’t feel obligated to sustain a conversation with anyone when I’m really just there for the pigs. 

This is a good match with the recent needs of Japanese people, who do not seek love or marriage, and do not want the hassle of such relationships, but want someone they can casually go on dates with or have dinner with.

Ai Sakata

consultant at Nomura Research Institute

While there are no official stats tracking the rental person industry in Japan, the country is home to a slew of rental services for temporary girlfriends, boyfriends, friends and even family.

“This is a good match with the recent needs of Japanese people, who do not seek love or marriage, and do not want the hassle of such relationships, but want someone they can casually go on dates with or have dinner with,” Ai Sakata, consultant at Nomura Research Institute told CNBC.

Not just about loneliness

Loneliness may be a reason that some pay for such services, but it’s not the only one, said Morimoto and experts CNBC spoke to.

Certain individuals may desire companionship, but others may just be a bit “socially awkward,” said Hiroshi Ono, professor of human resources at Hitotsubashi University.

Most Japanese people do not necessarily deal well with confrontation, or even direct communication, the professor added. “People are maybe just too awkward to say, will you be my friend? And so to avoid that awkwardness, they’re just willing to pay for it.”

Shoji Morimoto at a railway station waving goodbye to a client who requested a farewell.

Shoji Morimoto

Morimoto said a woman once paid him to sit in a corner of a cafe, within her line of sight, while she served divorce papers to her husband — without drawing his attention. The paper signing went smoothly, and Morimoto said the divorcee got an extra dose of courage from having someone she knew nearby.

His presence serves as a security blanket of sorts, temporarily socializing those who are uncomfortable in certain settings, the 41-year-old observed.

“There are many different [favorite] moments in this job, such as when I receive an offer message, when I meet a client, when I accompany a client to an unknown place, when I just listen to a story, and I feel happy in every moment,” Morimoto said.

“There was nothing else I truly wanted to do,” he said.

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Plus,  sign up for CNBC Make It’s newsletter  to get tips and tricks for success at work, with money and in life.

By CNBC

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Denali Therapeutics Announces Topline Results for Regimen G Evaluating eIF2B Agonist DNL343 in the Phase 2/3 HEALEY ALS Platform Trial https://thegbm.com/denali-therapeutics-announces-topline-results-for-regimen-g-evaluating-eif2b-agonist-dnl343-in-the-phase-2-3-healey-als-platform-trial/ https://thegbm.com/denali-therapeutics-announces-topline-results-for-regimen-g-evaluating-eif2b-agonist-dnl343-in-the-phase-2-3-healey-als-platform-trial/#respond Mon, 06 Jan 2025 21:30:00 +0000 https://thegbm.com/denali-therapeutics-announces-topline-results-for-regimen-g-evaluating-eif2b-agonist-dnl343-in-the-phase-2-3-healey-als-platform-trial
  • Primary endpoint of overall function (ALSFRS-R) and survival, and key secondary endpoints of muscle strength and respiratory function, were not met at 24 weeks
  • Overall, DNL343 was found to be safe and well tolerated
  • Additional analyses, including neurofilament light (NfL) and other fluid biomarkers, prespecified sub-group analyses and analyses from the active treatment extension period are expected later in 2025
  • SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO, Calif., Jan. 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Denali Therapeutics Inc. (NASDAQ: DNLI) today announced topline results from an analysis of Regimen G of the Phase 2/3 HEALEY ALS Platform Trial evaluating eIF2B agonist DNL343 in the treatment of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).

    The study did not meet the primary endpoint of efficacy in slowing disease progression as compared with placebo. The primary endpoint was evaluated as change in disease severity over time as measured by the ALS Functional Rating Scale-Revised (ALSFRS-R) and survival through week 24. Key secondary endpoints, measuring muscle strength and respiratory function, were also not statistically different between the active and placebo groups at week 24.

    For the primary analysis, a total of 186 participants who were randomized to receive DNL343 treatment were compared to 139 participants randomized to receive placebo in this regimen (n=63) or shared from a concurrently enrolling regimen (n=76).

    Overall, DNL343 was found to be safe and well tolerated. Further analyses are anticipated later in 2025, including neurofilament light (NfL) and other fluid biomarkers, data from pre-specified subgroups, as well as extended findings from the active treatment extension period.

    “Better treatment options for individuals with ALS are critically needed,” said Carole Ho, M.D., Chief Medical Officer of Denali Therapeutics. “We are deeply grateful to the study participants, investigators, and the broader community for their collective support of the HEALEY study, which has provided an efficient and innovative platform for evaluating the therapeutic potential of DNL343 in addressing this critical unmet need. We look forward to a more comprehensive analysis of the study results as additional analyses, including pre-specified subgroup analyses and treatment effects on NfL, become available later in 2025.”

    “Though the initial top-line clinical results of this trial were not what we hoped, the data collected is valuable in helping to understand the next stage of ALS research,” said Merit Cudkowicz, MD, MSc, principal investigator and sponsor of the HEALEY ALS Platform Trial, director of the Sean M. Healey & AMG Center for ALS, chief of the Department of Neurology at MGH, and the Julieanne Dorn Professor of Neurology at Harvard Medical School. “We have additional pre-specified subgroup analyses and biomarker work, including NfL, pending from this regimen, as well as long term efficacy data from participants who continued in the active treatment extension period. We remain deeply committed to fully understanding the effects of DNL343 in ALS and will further evaluate the data before determining next steps.”

    About ALS  
    Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is the most prevalent adult-onset progressive motor neuron disease, affecting approximately 30,000 people in the U.S. and an estimated 500,000 people worldwide. ALS causes the progressive degeneration of motor neurons, resulting in muscle weakness and atrophy. There is an urgent need to understand the biology of ALS and to develop effective therapies.  

    About DNL343

    DNL343 is a novel small molecule ALS therapeutic candidate that targets eIF2B, a central regulator of the integrated stress response (ISR). The ISR appears to be overactive in ALS, leading to the formation of stress granules containing TDP-43.1,2 The buildup of TDP-43 is harmful and leads to neuronal degeneration. In preclinical data, inhibition of the ISR by DNL343 dissolves TDP-43 containing stress granules and decreases biomarkers of the ISR. Early clinical studies have demonstrated that once-daily oral dosing with DNL343 was generally well tolerated and exhibited extensive penetration of cerebrospinal fluid. In addition, robust inhibition of biomarkers associated with the ISR pathway was observed in blood samples from study participants. DNL343 is an investigational drug and its safety and efficacy profile has not yet been established. DNL343 has not been approved by any Health Authority for any use.

    About the HEALEY ALS Platform Trial

    The HEALEY ALS Platform Trial is a large-scale collaborative effort made possible by contributions from patients and families, clinical trial sites, industry partners and research collaborators to evaluate multiple investigational therapies simultaneously with the goal of accelerating the development of potential new treatments for ALS. The platform trial is led by the Sean M. Healey & AMG Center for ALS at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) in collaboration with the Northeast ALS Consortium (NEALS). Therapeutic candidates that enter the platform trial are chosen by a group of expert ALS scientists and members of the Healey & AMG Center.

    About Denali Therapeutics

    Denali Therapeutics is a biopharmaceutical company developing a broad portfolio of product candidates engineered to cross the blood-brain barrier for neurodegenerative diseases and lysosomal storage diseases. Denali pursues new treatments by rigorously assessing genetically validated targets, engineering delivery across the blood-brain barrier and guiding development through biomarkers that demonstrate target and pathway engagement. Denali is based in South San Francisco. For additional information, please visit www.denalitherapeutics.com.

    Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements expressed or implied in this press release include, but are not limited to, statements regarding Denali’s plans, timelines, and expectations related to DNL343; the timing and availability of further data and analyses related to Regimen 3 of the Phase 2/3 HEALEY Platform Trial; and statements made by Denali’s Chief Medical Officer and the principal investigator and sponsor of the HEALEY ALS Platform Trial. Actual results are subject to risks and uncertainties and may differ materially from those indicated by these forward-looking statements as a result of these risks and uncertainties, including without limitation, Denali’s transition to a late stage clinical drug development company; Denali’s and its partners’ ability to initiate, enroll patients in, conduct, and complete its ongoing and future clinical trials on expected timelines; Denali’s reliance on third parties for the manufacture and supply of its product candidates for clinical trials; the potential for clinical trial results to differ from preclinical, preliminary or expected results; the risk of adverse events, toxicities, and other undesirable side effects; the risk that results from early clinical biomarker studies will not translate to clinical benefit in late clinical studies; the risk that product candidates may not in the future receive regulatory approval necessary to be commercialized; Denali’s ability to obtain, maintain, or protect intellectual property rights related to its product candidates; implementation of Denali’s strategic plans for its business, product candidates and BBB platform technology; and other risks. In light of these risks, uncertainties, and assumptions, the forward-looking statements in this press release are inherently uncertain and may not occur, and actual results could differ materially and adversely from those anticipated or implied in the forward-looking statements. Accordingly, you should not rely upon forward-looking statements as predictions of future events. Information regarding additional risks and uncertainties may be found in Denali’s Annual and Quarterly Reports filed on Forms 10-K and 10-Q filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) on February 28, 2024, and November 6, 2024, respectively, and Denali’s future reports to be filed with the SEC. Denali does not undertake any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, to conform these statements to actual results, or to make changes in Denali’s expectations, except as required by law.

    Reference:

    1. Fang, MY et al. “Small-Molecule Modulation of TDP-43 Recruitment to Stress Granules Prevents Persistent TDP-43 Accumulation in ALS/FTD.” Neuron 2019 Sep 4;103(5):802-819
    2. Luan, W et al. “Early activation of cellular stress and death pathways caused by cytoplasmic TDP-43 in the rNLS8 mouse model of ALS and FTD.” Mol Psychiatry 2023 Jun;28(6):2445-2461

    Investor Contact
    Laura Hansen, Ph.D.
    Vice President, Investor Relations
    (650) 452-2747
    hansen@dnli.com

    Media Contact
    Rich Allan
    FGS Global
    (503) 851-0807
    rich.allan@fgsglobal.com

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    https://thegbm.com/denali-therapeutics-announces-topline-results-for-regimen-g-evaluating-eif2b-agonist-dnl343-in-the-phase-2-3-healey-als-platform-trial/feed/ 0 28449
    Enovix Completes Site Acceptance Testing (SAT) of Fab2 https://thegbm.com/enovix-completes-site-acceptance-testing-sat-of-fab2/ https://thegbm.com/enovix-completes-site-acceptance-testing-sat-of-fab2/#respond Mon, 06 Jan 2025 21:30:00 +0000 https://thegbm.com/enovix-completes-site-acceptance-testing-sat-of-fab2 FREMONT, Calif., Jan. 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Enovix Corporation (“Enovix”) (Nasdaq: ENVX), a Silicon Valley high-performance battery manufacturing company, today announced the successful completion of Site Acceptance Testing (SAT) for its High Volume Manufacturing (HVM) line at Fab2 in Malaysia. This milestone, achieved in late December, is a critical step toward enabling Fab2 to begin mass production in 2025, supporting the company’s strategy to meet growing global demand for high energy density battery solutions.

    SAT validates the readiness of the manufacturing equipment through comprehensive testing. It follows the Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) milestone completed earlier in 2024, marking the final stage before commercial-scale production begins. Together, FAT and SAT ensure that Fab2 is fully equipped to produce high-performance silicon batteries at volume, meeting the stringent demands of Enovix’s global customers.

    Enovix Chief Operating Officer Ajay Marathe commented, “Completing SAT is a significant achievement for Enovix, as it demonstrates our ability to commercialize our patented manufacturing process at scale. With batteries already produced during our testing phases and delivered to customers as early samples, we are now laser focused on transitioning to full-scale production. Our priorities include ensuring smooth customer qualifications for our facilities, optimizing manufacturing workflows, and minimizing the time it takes to bring customized battery solutions to multiple end markets.”

    Enovix Chief Executive Officer Dr. Raj Talluri added, “The completion of SAT represents a turning point for Fab2 and for Enovix. It reflects the dedication of our team and our commitment to operational excellence. With significant customer interest in our cutting-edge technology, Fab2 will enable us to meet large-scale production demands while maintaining the highest quality standards. This milestone is a testament to our vision of powering the next generation of devices with battery solutions that redefine performance and reliability.”

    About Enovix

    Enovix is on a mission to deliver high-performance batteries to unlock the full potential of technology products. Every electronic appliance – for IoT, mobile, and computing – needs a better battery. Enovix is partnering with OEMs worldwide to usher in a new era of user experiences. Our innovative, materials-agnostic battery architecture creates higher-performing batteries without compromising safety and keeps us on the cutting-edge.

    Enovix is headquartered in Silicon Valley with facilities in India, Korea and Malaysia. For more information visit www.enovix.com and follow us on LinkedIn.

    For media and investor inquiries, please contact: Robert Lahey Email: ir@enovix.com

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