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Applied Graphite Technologies lists on TSX-V as it advances vein graphite properties in Sri Lanka

Applied Graphite Technologies Corporation

Applied Graphite Technologies Corporation CEO Don Baxter joined Stephen Gunnion with news of the company's listing on the TSX Venture Exchange under the ticker symbol 'AGT.' Baxter, a seasoned mining engineer, discussed the company's evolution since 2012, centering on graphite purification technologies for batteries amidst growing demand in the battery industry. Listing on the TSX-V will increase access to capital while building investor confidence, he said. Highlighting the company's strategic acquisitions in Sri Lanka, Baxter explained the unique advantages of the vein graphite found there: high carbon content (95% in the ground), environmental benefits (no tailings or waste rock), and cost-effectiveness in mining. Unlike flake or synthetic graphite, vein graphite from these properties has higher crystallinity, translating to enhanced battery capacity and a smaller environmental footprint. The company is rapidly moving towards production to meet burgeoning graphite demand, prompted by China's potential restrictions on graphite exports. With plans to scale up to 30,000 to 50,000 tonnes annually, Baxter envisions starting with selling run-of-mine graphite, and progressing to producing battery-grade graphite. He emphasized the company's unique position to meet the critical supply demands for battery anodes, highlighting quick development times due to favorable terrain in Sri Lanka. Contact Details Proactive North America Proactive North America +1 604-688-8158 NA-editorial@proactiveinvestors.com

March 12, 2024 12:37 PM Eastern Daylight Time

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atai Life Sciences advances VLS-01 for treatment-resistant depression

atai Life Sciences

atai Life Sciences chief scientific officer Dr Srinivas Rao discusses the company's development candidate VLS-01, aimed at treating treatment-resistant depression, with Proactive's Stephen Gunnion. Rao explained that VLS-01 is a formulation of DMT, the active component in ayahuasca, known for its short-duration psychedelic effects. The innovation lies in its delivery method, an oral transmucosal film, resembling a Listerine strip, which dissolves inside the mouth over 20 minutes, providing a patient-friendly alternative to intravenous administration. Rao said this approach is designed to enhance the patient and healthcare provider experience, especially in settings not equipped for IV treatments. The ongoing Phase 1B trial seeks to confirm VLS-01's safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics (PK), and pharmacodynamics, aiming for a psychoactive effect lasting 30-45 minutes with patients returning to baseline within two hours post-administration. Rao said this trial format follows the US treatment paradigm established by Spravato (esketamine) for depression. The trial will involve 16 healthy volunteers to assess the drug's impact, setting a baseline with intravenous DMT before testing up to three oral doses of VLSI-01. Initial results are expected in the second half of the year, with plans to proceed to Phase 2 trials involving patients with treatment-resistant depression to evaluate the compound's efficacy further. Contact Details Proactive North America Proactive North America +1 604-688-8158 NA-editorial@proactiveinvestors.com

March 12, 2024 12:35 PM Eastern Daylight Time

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TNR Gold Executive Chairman highlights promising assays from Los Azules copper project

TNR Gold Corp

TNR Gold Corp executive chairman Kirill Klip discusses promising assay results from the Los Azules copper, gold, and silver project in Argentina with Proactive's Stephen Gunnion. Klip highlighted one of the property's best drill holes yielding 0.63% copper over 446 metres, including a segment with 0.9% copper over 70 metres. These results underpin the potential for an upgraded resource estimate as part of the preparation for a feasibility study, expected in Q1 2025. Klip also noted the supportive political climate in Argentina under the new president, which is seen as favourable for resource development and investment, citing significant investments by major corporations like Rio Tinto and Ganfeng Lithium in the country's mining sector. Additionally, Klip addressed the copper market's dynamics, predicting a potential swing into deficit, influenced by robust demand and limited new supply. He cited industry expectations for rising copper prices and discussed the implications for TNR Gold's valuation, particularly regarding its royalty on the Los Azules project. With significant drilling activity ongoing, Klip anticipates the project's resource base will expand, enhancing the company's revenue prospects from its royalties. Contact Details v +1 604-688-8158 na-editorial@proactiveinvestors.com

March 12, 2024 12:32 PM Eastern Daylight Time

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Ionic Rare Earths progresses to triple B rating with Digbee's guidance; plans to leverage outcomes

IONIC RARE EARTHS LIMITED

Ionic Rare Earths managing director Tim Harrison and Digbee Limited founder and CEO Jamie discussed the progress Ionic has made in enhancing its environmental, social, and governance (ESG) systems and performance. The company achieved a progression from a double B score to a triple B score following feedback incorporation. This improvement has significantly influenced the company's stakeholder engagement strategies across various segments, notably in Uganda's local communities, potential financiers, and off-takers. Harrison highlighted the company's plans to leverage the assessment outcomes for attracting strategic partners and positioning the project within emerging supply chains, emphasizing the importance of ESG strategies in its operations. Strauss pointed out the rapid evolution of the sustainability landscape, noting Ionic Rare Earths' efforts in transparency and continuous improvement as differentiators. The Makuutu project's advancement, particularly towards production from a demonstration plant, underscores the growing necessity for sustainable financing. Strauss underscored the increasing emphasis on sustainability in critical mineral funds and private equity investments, stressing the importance of sustainability in securing financing and maintaining social licenses to operate. Contact Details Jonathan Jackson +61 413 713 744 jonathan@proactiveinvestors.com

March 12, 2024 12:29 PM Eastern Daylight Time

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Andrada Mining CEO discusses phased approach to becoming a mid-tier producer

Andrada Mining Ltd

Andrada Mining Ltd (AIM:ATM, OTC:AFTTF) CEO Anthony Viljoen discusses the company's expansion plans and the promising potential of its flagship Uis mine in Namibia with Proactive's Stephen Gunnion. In a production and strategic process update, Andrada noted it has made significant progress in developing what is believed to be one of the world's most preeminent polymetallic deposits, with lithium being a key focus alongside tin and tantalum. The company has adopted a phased approach to expansion, emphasizing conservative planning and rapid execution. Viljoen said tin revenues and throughput at the plant doubled last year, as integrating ore sorting technology showed positive results. Andrada has also commenced tantalum production and established a pilot plant for lithium, achieving on-spec lithium concentrate, a feat unique among AIM-listed lithium companies. This development marks a transition from a junior small-cap to a mid-tier mining producer. Viljoen mentioned non-binding offers for partnership interests in the lithium project, underscoring lithium's versatility and potential across various industries, including batteries and ceramics. The company is considering partnerships with major players in the lithium market to accelerate long-term development and expose the company to downstream opportunities. Looking ahead, Andrada aims to unlock the scale potential of its deposits, leveraging revenues and profits for expansion with financing partners. Key milestones for 2024 include finalizing strategic partnerships, ramping up tantalum supply, expanding lithium resources, and engaging in further metallurgical test work and partnerships, particularly following the EU-Namibia roundtable participation. Contact Details Proactive UK Ltd +44 20 7989 0813 uk@proactiveinvestors.com

March 12, 2024 12:26 PM Eastern Daylight Time

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H&T Group reports strong year amid increased pawnbroking demand

H&T Group PLC

H&T Group PLC (AIM:HAT), the UK's largest pawnbroker, has attrributed strong full-year results to increased demand for pawnbroking services amid economic conditions and limited borrowing options. In an interview with Proactive's Stephen Gunnion, CEO Chris Gillespie highlighted that their typical customer borrows a small sum, usually £200 or less, with a noticeable rise in business owners using pawnbroking services for working capital or investment. January 2024 marked a record month for lending demand, Gillespie told Proactive. The company recently acquired Maxcroft Securities to enhance its service for business customers, leveraging Maxcroft's specialization in loans secured against personal assets for business purposes. The acquisition aims to build on the already existing portion of H&T's lending book dedicated to business loans, spread across 280 shops. Financially, H&T Group experienced a 42% increase in post-tax profits and a 28% growth in its pledge book. Despite facing challenges in retail, especially over the Christmas period, the company managed to grow its core business and increased the dividend by 13%. It addressed the retail challenge by adapting to customer preferences for lower-priced, pre-owned items, which typically offer higher margins. Additionally, H&T Group ended the period with a strong balance sheet, with a net asset value of £177 million, up 8%, and around £30 million in net debt, indicating modest gearing. The company anticipates continued robust demand for its pawnbroking services and sees positive momentum in its foreign currency and holiday money business going into 2024. Growth strategies include organic expansion and potential acquisitions, though opportunities similar to Max Croft are rare. Contact Details Proactive UK Ltd +44 20 7989 0813 uk@proactiveinvestors.com

March 12, 2024 12:24 PM Eastern Daylight Time

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Hemogenyx Pharmaceuticals discusses successful £3.5M capital raise as it advances HEMO-CAR-T program

HemoGenyx Pharmaceuticals

Hemogenyx Pharmaceuticals PLC (LSE:HEMO, OTC:HOPHF) Dr Vladislav Sandler joins Proactive's Stephen Gunnion after the pre-clinical stage biopharmaceutical group raised £3.5 million, which will be utilized to progress its lead product candidate, Chimeric Antigen Receptor T-cells (HEMO-CAR-T), into human trials following the lifting of a clinical hold. The HEMO-CAR-T therapy is focused on treating relapsed and refractory acute myeloid leukaemia. Despite the challenging market conditions, particularly for biotech firms, Sandler said HemoGenyx successfully secured the necessary funds. He highlighted the company's efficiency and ability to progress with minimal funds, contrasting the struggles faced by other micro-cap companies in raising capital. Looking forward, Sandler said the company plans to advance its clinical trials and continue development on its CBR platform and CDX bispecific antibody, albeit at a potentially slower pace due to funding limitations. As a development-stage company, HemoGenyx anticipates further funding needs but remains committed to efficient and fast-paced progress, seeking various funding sources. Sandler expresses long-term aspirations for HemoGenyx to save lives and generate significant returns for investors. Contact Details Proactive UK Ltd +44 20 7989 0813 uk@proactiveinvestors.com

March 12, 2024 12:23 PM Eastern Daylight Time

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Challenger Energy secures second Uruguay licence following Chevron farm-out deal for the first

Challenger Energy Group PLC

Challenger Energy Group PLC (AIM:CEG, OTC:BSHPF) CEO Eytan Uliel joins Proactive's Stephen Gunnion with news that the company has formalised a second offshore licence agreement in Uruguay, following a farm-out deal with Chevron for its first licence —AREA OFF-1 — signalling rapid advancements in the region. Uliel said the latest development is a part of the junior explorer's plan and execution over the last 12-18 months, showcasing its strategic growth and commitment to its objectives in Uruguay. The deal with Chevron for OFF-1 involves Challenger Energy retaining a 40% interest in the licence, with Chevron taking a 60% stake and assuming operatorship. This partnership is significant as it represents a new country entry for Chevron and endorses the technical and prospective value of the block as identified by Challenger Energy. Financially, the agreement includes an upfront payment of $12.5 million to Challenger Energy and provisions for Chevron to cover the costs of an accelerated 3D seismic campaign and partially fund exploration drilling, if it proceeds. Challenger Energy views Uruguay as a frontier exploration hotspot, paralleled by the recent significant oil and gas discoveries off the coast of Namibia. The geological similarities between Uruguay and Namibia have spurred industry interest, transforming Uruguay into a sought-after location for offshore exploration. This interest is evidenced by the licensing of all other offshore blocks in Uruguay to major industry players such as Shell, Apache, and YPF. Looking ahead, Challenger Energy aims to replicate the successful farm-out strategy employed with Chevron for its second offshore licence, AREA OFF-3. The company plans to accelerate technical assessments and engage potential partners, leveraging existing seismic data to attract interest and investment in its projects. The ambition is to see initial exploration drilling in the coming two to three years, further advancing Uruguay's offshore potential. Contact Details Proactive UK Ltd +44 20 7989 0813 uk@proactiveinvestors.com

March 12, 2024 12:04 PM Eastern Daylight Time

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SIGMA Cine Lenses Chosen as Benchmark for Giant Screen Cinema Association’s Camera Assessment Test

SIGMA CORPORATION OF AMERICA

SIGMA Corporation of America, a leading camera and lens manufacturer for both photography and cinema applications, is proud to announce that its SIGMA 65mm T1.5 FF Cine Prime was selected as the benchmark cine lens for the Giant Screen Cinema Association’s (GSCA) Camera Assessment Test (CAT). Results of the CAT were unveiled today during the Filmmakers Symposium portion of the GSCA Film Expo, held March 11-13 at the AMC Citywalk IMAX Theater & Universal City Hilton. A team of cinematography professionals — led by renowned cinematographer James Neihouse, ASC and Michael Daut, co-chair of the GSCA Innovations Committee — conducted an extensive test to showcase the strengths of six higher-than-6K-resolution cameras. The objective was to provide filmmakers with invaluable information on how each camera performs in challenging shooting situations. This groundbreaking test involved a wide range of cameras, lenses, shooting scenarios, and locations. “The evaluation required lenses that provided sharp, clean, crisp images while being as ‘neutral’ as possible,” said James Neihouse, ASC. “We chose the SIGMA 65mm T1.5 FF Cine Prime lens for its exceptional corner to corner sharpness and ability to cover a full frame (Vista Vision) size sensor. In Giant Screen documentaries, we like an image that is as close to reality as possible, which is why we liked this SIGMA lens. Other lenses were considered but rejected for bringing their own ‘look’ to the images.” “We are honored that the GSCA selected the SIGMA 65mm T1.5 FF Cine Prime as the benchmark lens to assess these leading Cine cameras in the most demanding real-world situations,” reports Mark Amir-Hamzeh, President of SIGMA America. “ and this demonstrates SIGMA’s dedication to crafting exceptionally high-performing lenses for filmmaking.” Six cameras went through rigorous testing which examined sensor size and resolution, sensor space, compression, dynamic range, log space, RAW capture, lens mount, recording media, usability, reliability, flexibility, and support. The six selected cameras were ARRI Alexa 35, Canon R5C, Kinefinity MAVO Edge 8K, RED V Raptor XL, SONY A1 and SONY Venice 2. About Giant Screen Cinema Association (GSCA) GSCA is the essential organization that supports, grows, fortifies, and sustains the international network of premium giant screen theaters and content creators to provide immersive, transformational, educational, cinematic experiences. GSCA’s membership includes more than 200 organizations in over 20 countries and includes museums, science centers, and other institutions with giant screen theaters; production and postproduction professionals; content distributors; manufacturers; service providers; and other related businesses from around the world. GSCA is a member-driven organization with a full-time staff that works to meet the association’s needs and promote its members’ interests. About SIGMA Corporation of America SIGMA Corporation of America, founded in 1984, is the US subsidiary of SIGMA Corporation, a family-owned manufacturer of lenses, cameras, and photo accessories. Headquartered in Ronkonkoma, NY, SIGMA America expanded its US operations in 2018 with the opening of SIGMA Burbank, a multifunctional showroom, event space and repairs/distribution facility located in the heart of the Los Angeles entertainment industry. Craftsmanship. Precision. Dedication. Since 1961, SIGMA has been devoted to the pursuit of advancing photographic technology. Unique to the industry, the family-owned business produces its high-quality, award-winning still photo and cinema camera lenses, DSLR and mirrorless cameras, flashes, filters, and accessories from its state-of-the-art manufacturing facility located in Aizu, Japan. ### For information about SIGMA America, please visit sigmaphoto.com and SIGMA Blog for helpful information about our products. Follow SIGMA America on social media! SIGMA Photo: Facebook, Twitter and Instagram SIGMA Cine: Facebook, Twitter and Instagram Contact Details Jack Howard +1 631-201-7381 sigma.pr@sigmaphoto.com SDDPR Stacey Doss stacey@sddpr.com Company Website https://www.sigmaphoto.com/

March 12, 2024 09:00 AM Pacific Daylight Time

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