Market Signal Briefing

RCM Technologies, Inc. (RCMT - Free Report) has been one of the most searched-for stocks on Zacks.com lately. So, you might want to look at some of the facts that could shape the stock's performance in the near term.

Shares of this company have returned +7.6% over the past month versus the Zacks S&P 500 composite's +0.9% change. The Zacks Staffing Firms industry, to which RCM Technologies belongs, has lost 3.3% over this period. Now the key question is: Where could the stock be headed in the near term?

Although media reports or rumors about a significant change in a company's business prospects usually cause its stock to trend and lead to an immediate price change, there are always certain fundamental factors that ultimately drive the buy-and-hold decision.

Revisions to Earnings EstimatesHere at Zacks, we prioritize appraising the change in the projection of a company's future earnings over anything else. That's because we believe the present value of its future stream of earnings is what determines the fair value for its stock.

We essentially look at how sell-side analysts covering the stock are revising their earnings estimates to reflect the impact of the latest business trends. And if earnings estimates go up for a company, the fair value for its stock goes up. A higher fair value than the current market price drives investors' interest in buying the stock, leading to its price moving higher. This is why empirical research shows a strong correlation between trends in earnings estimate revisions and near-term stock price movements.

RCM Technologies is expected to post earnings of $0.58 per share for the current quarter, representing a year-over-year change of +18.4%. Over the last 30 days, the Zacks Consensus Estimate remained unchanged.

For the current fiscal year, the consensus earnings estimate of $2.32 points to a change of +14.3% from the prior year. Over the last 30 days, this estimate has remained unchanged.

For the next fiscal year, the consensus earnings estimate of $2.55 indicates a change of +9.9% from what RCM Technologies is expected to report a year ago. Over the past month, the estimate has remained unchanged.

Having a strong externally audited track record, our proprietary stock rating tool, the Zacks Rank, offers a more conclusive picture of a stock's price direction in the near term, since it effectively harnesses the power of earnings estimate revisions. Due to the size of the recent change in the consensus estimate, along with three other factors related to earnings estimates, RCM Technologies is rated Zacks Rank #5 (Strong Sell).

The chart below shows the evolution of the company's forward 12-month consensus EPS estimate:

12 Month EPS

Projected Revenue GrowthWhile earnings growth is arguably the most superior indicator of a company's financial health, nothing happens as such if a business isn't able to grow its revenues. After all, it's nearly impossible for a company to increase its earnings for an extended period without increasing its revenues. So, it's important to know a company's potential revenue growth.

For RCM Technologies, the consensus sales estimate for the current quarter of $81.9 million indicates a year-over-year change of +6.5%. For the current and next fiscal years, $314.83 million and $330 million estimates indicate +13.1% and +4.8% changes, respectively.

Last Reported Results and Surprise HistoryRCM Technologies reported revenues of $70.29 million in the last reported quarter, representing a year-over-year change of +16.4%. EPS of $0.42 for the same period compares with $0.44 a year ago.

Compared to the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $68.26 million, the reported revenues represent a surprise of +2.97%. The EPS surprise was -6.67%.

Over the last four quarters, RCM Technologies surpassed consensus EPS estimates two times. The company topped consensus revenue estimates three times over this period.

ValuationWithout considering a stock's valuation, no investment decision can be efficient. In predicting a stock's future price performance, it's crucial to determine whether its current price correctly reflects the intrinsic value of the underlying business and the company's growth prospects.

Comparing the current value of a company's valuation multiples, such as its price-to-earnings (P/E), price-to-sales (P/S), and price-to-cash flow (P/CF), to its own historical values helps ascertain whether its stock is fairly valued, overvalued, or undervalued, whereas comparing the company relative to its peers on these parameters gives a good sense of how reasonable its stock price is.

The Zacks Value Style Score (part of the Zacks Style Scores system), which pays close attention to both traditional and unconventional valuation metrics to grade stocks from A to F (an A is better than a B; a B is better than a C; and so on), is pretty helpful in identifying whether a stock is overvalued, rightly valued, or temporarily undervalued.

RCM Technologies is graded B on this front, indicating that it is trading at a discount to its peers. Click here to see the values of some of the valuation metrics that have driven this grade.

Bottom LineThe facts discussed here and much other information on Zacks.com might help determine whether or not it's worthwhile paying attention to the market buzz about RCM Technologies. However, its Zacks Rank #5 does suggest that it may underperform the broader market in the near term.

Cleveland-Cliffs (CLF - Free Report) has been one of the most searched-for stocks on Zacks.com lately. So, you might want to look at some of the facts that could shape the stock's performance in the near term.

Shares of this mining company have returned +15.1% over the past month versus the Zacks S&P 500 composite's +0.9% change. The Zacks Steel - Producers industry, to which Cleveland-Cliffs belongs, has gained 11.8% over this period. Now the key question is: Where could the stock be headed in the near term?

While media releases or rumors about a substantial change in a company's business prospects usually make its stock 'trending' and lead to an immediate price change, there are always some fundamental facts that eventually dominate the buy-and-hold decision-making.

Revisions to Earnings EstimatesRather than focusing on anything else, we at Zacks prioritize evaluating the change in a company's earnings projection. This is because we believe the fair value for its stock is determined by the present value of its future stream of earnings.

Our analysis is essentially based on how sell-side analysts covering the stock are revising their earnings estimates to take the latest business trends into account. When earnings estimates for a company go up, the fair value for its stock goes up as well. And when a stock's fair value is higher than its current market price, investors tend to buy the stock, resulting in its price moving upward. Because of this, empirical studies indicate a strong correlation between trends in earnings estimate revisions and short-term stock price movements.

Cleveland-Cliffs is expected to post a loss of $0.50 per share for the current quarter, representing a year-over-year change of +26.5%. Over the last 30 days, the Zacks Consensus Estimate has changed -1.2%.

The consensus earnings estimate of -$2.37 for the current fiscal year indicates a year-over-year change of -224.7%. This estimate has changed +0.2% over the last 30 days.

For the next fiscal year, the consensus earnings estimate of $0.09 indicates a change of +96.1% from what Cleveland-Cliffs is expected to report a year ago. Over the past month, the estimate has changed +12.5%.

With an impressive externally audited track record, our proprietary stock rating tool -- the Zacks Rank -- is a more conclusive indicator of a stock's near-term price performance, as it effectively harnesses the power of earnings estimate revisions. The size of the recent change in the consensus estimate, along with three other factors related to earnings estimates, has resulted in a Zacks Rank #4 (Sell) for Cleveland-Cliffs.

The chart below shows the evolution of the company's forward 12-month consensus EPS estimate:

12 Month EPS

Revenue Growth ForecastWhile earnings growth is arguably the most superior indicator of a company's financial health, nothing happens as such if a business isn't able to grow its revenues. After all, it's nearly impossible for a company to increase its earnings for an extended period without increasing its revenues. So, it's important to know a company's potential revenue growth.

For Cleveland-Cliffs, the consensus sales estimate for the current quarter of $4.74 billion indicates a year-over-year change of +9.7%. For the current and next fiscal years, $19.12 billion and $20.35 billion estimates indicate -0.3% and +6.4% changes, respectively.

Last Reported Results and Surprise HistoryCleveland-Cliffs reported revenues of $4.73 billion in the last reported quarter, representing a year-over-year change of +3.6%. EPS of -$0.45 for the same period compares with -$0.33 a year ago.

Compared to the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $4.89 billion, the reported revenues represent a surprise of -3.12%. The EPS surprise was +6.25%.

Over the last four quarters, Cleveland-Cliffs surpassed consensus EPS estimates two times. The company topped consensus revenue estimates three times over this period.

ValuationWithout considering a stock's valuation, no investment decision can be efficient. In predicting a stock's future price performance, it's crucial to determine whether its current price correctly reflects the intrinsic value of the underlying business and the company's growth prospects.

While comparing the current values of a company's valuation multiples, such as price-to-earnings (P/E), price-to-sales (P/S), and price-to-cash flow (P/CF), with its own historical values helps determine whether its stock is fairly valued, overvalued, or undervalued, comparing the company relative to its peers on these parameters gives a good sense of the reasonability of the stock's price.

The Zacks Value Style Score (part of the Zacks Style Scores system), which pays close attention to both traditional and unconventional valuation metrics to grade stocks from A to F (an A is better than a B; a B is better than a C; and so on), is pretty helpful in identifying whether a stock is overvalued, rightly valued, or temporarily undervalued.

Cleveland-Cliffs is graded F on this front, indicating that it is trading at a premium to its peers. Click here to see the values of some of the valuation metrics that have driven this grade.

Bottom LineThe facts discussed here and much other information on Zacks.com might help determine whether or not it's worthwhile paying attention to the market buzz about Cleveland-Cliffs. However, its Zacks Rank #4 does suggest that it may underperform the broader market in the near term.

FDX rides strong holiday demand and cost cuts into the fiscal second quarter, with EPS set to top last year and shares outperforming UPS.

Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP Securities Litigation Partner James (Josh) Wilson Encourages Investors Who Suffered In Avantor To Contact Him Directly To Discuss Their Options

If you purchased or acquired securities in Avantor between March 5, 2024 and October 28, 2025 and would like to discuss your legal rights, call Faruqi & Faruqi partner Josh Wilson directly at 877-247-4292 or 212-983-9330 (Ext. 1310).

[You may also click here for additional information]

NEW YORK, Dec. 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP, a leading national securities law firm, is investigating potential claims against Avantor, Inc. (“Avantor” or the “Company”) (NYSE: AVTR) and reminds investors of the December 29, 2025 deadline to seek the role of lead plaintiff in a federal securities class action that has been filed against the Company.

Faruqi & Faruqi is a leading national securities law firm with offices in New York, Pennsylvania, California and Georgia. The firm has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors since its founding in 1995. See www.faruqilaw.com.

As detailed below, the complaint alleges that the Company and its executives violated federal securities laws by making false and/or misleading statements and/or failing to disclose that: (1) Avantor’s competitive positioning was weaker than Defendants had publicly represented; (2) Avantor was experiencing negative effects from increased competition; and (3) as a result, Defendants’ representations about the Company’s business, operations, and prospects were materially false and misleading and/or lacked a reasonable basis.

During the Class Period, Defendants misled investors by falsely touting the Company’s competitive positioning and downplaying the effects of increased competition. For example, during an earnings call on July 26, 2024, in response to an analyst’s question about whether Avantor was losing share to a competitor, Defendant Michael Stubblefield, then the Company’s President and Chief Executive Officer, assured investors that Avantor’s “lab business stacks up well against every number that certainly that we’ve seen,” that “we continue to enhance our position,” and that “we’re really confident in our value proposition and our competitive position.” Likewise, Defendants repeatedly pointed to Avantor’s purported competitive advantages, such as its digital capabilities, as evidence that the Company would continue to enjoy strong competitive positioning.

Investors began to learn the truth about the effects of increased competition on Avantor’s business on April 25, 2025, when the Company reported disappointing first quarter 2025 financial results, cut its guidance for 2025, and announced that Defendant Stubblefield would be stepping down from his roles as President and Chief Executive Officer. Defendants attributed Avantor’s weak performance and outlook to “the impact of increased competitive intensity.”

On this news, the price of Avantor common stock declined $2.57 per share, or more than 16.5%, from a close of $15.50 per share on April 24, 2025, to close at $12.93 per share on April 25, 2025

Then, on August 1, 2025, the Company reported disappointing second quarter 2025 financial results, including a year-over-year decrease in net sales, and further reduced the Company’s 2025 guidance—now projecting organic revenue growth of -2% to 0%. Defendants again attributed Avantor’s poor results and outlook to “increased competitive intensity,” and further admitted that the Company did not expect the competitive environment to materially improve in the remainder of 2025 and weak performance would therefore likely persist.

In response to this news, the price of Avantor common stock declined $2.08 per share, or more than 15%, from a close of $13.44 per share on July 31, 2025, to close at $11.36 per share on August 1, 2025.

Then, on October 29, 2025, the Company reported weak third quarter 2025 financial results, including -5% organic revenue growth (below the guidance Defendants had provided in August), and a net loss of $712 million, which Defendants primarily attributed to a non-cash goodwill impairment charge of $785 million. Defendants revealed that the impairment charge was necessary due in part to “competitive pressures” that had “meaningfully impacted” the Company’s margins, and further admitted that the Company had lost several large accounts

On this news, the price of Avantor common stock declined $3.50 per share, or more than 23%, from a close of $15.08 per share on October 28, 2025, to close at $11.58 per share on October 29, 2025.

The court-appointed lead plaintiff is the investor with the largest financial interest in the relief sought by the class who is adequate and typical of class members who directs and oversees the litigation on behalf of the putative class. Any member of the putative class may move the Court to serve as lead plaintiff through counsel of their choice, or may choose to do nothing and remain an absent class member. Your ability to share in any recovery is not affected by the decision to serve as a lead plaintiff or not.  

Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP also encourages anyone with information regarding Avantor’s conduct to contact the firm, including whistleblowers, former employees, shareholders and others.

To learn more about the Avantor class action, go to www.faruqilaw.com/AVTR or call Faruqi & Faruqi partner Josh Wilson directly at 877-247-4292 or 212-983-9330 (Ext. 1310).

Follow us for updates on LinkedIn, on X, or on Facebook.

Attorney Advertising. The law firm responsible for this advertisement is Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP (www.faruqilaw.com). Prior results do not guarantee or predict a similar outcome with respect to any future matter. We welcome the opportunity to discuss your particular case. All communications will be treated in a confidential manner.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/2fceea32-072d-4e7c-b9fd-7ceadbf788ad

WILLIAMSBURG, Va.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--DataXstream LLC, an SAP® Endorsed App partner developing innovative solutions for SAP sales and distribution, today announced that its OMS+ Cross-Channel Order Management platform for SAP S/4HANA Cloud Private Edition has achieved Premium Re-Certification for SAP Endorsed Apps by SAP. This milestone confirms that OMS+ meets SAP's highest standards for security, cloud delivery, responsible AI and clean core aligned architecture. The certification, which is doc.

Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP Securities Litigation Partner James (Josh) Wilson Encourages Investors Who Suffered Losses In Sprouts To Contact Him Directly To Discuss Their Options

If you purchased or acquired securities in Sprouts between June 4, 2025 and October 29, 2025 and would like to discuss your legal rights, call Faruqi & Faruqi partner Josh Wilson directly at 877-247-4292 or 212-983-9330 (Ext. 1310).

[You may also click here for additional information]

, /PRNewswire/ -- Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP, a leading national securities law firm, is investigating potential claims against Sprouts Farmers Market, Inc. ("Sprouts" or the "Company") (NASDAQ: SFM) and reminds investors of the January 26, 2026 deadline to seek the role of lead plaintiff in a federal securities class action that has been filed against the Company.

James (Josh) Wilson, Faruqi & Faruqi Senior Partner (PRNewsfoto/Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP)

Faruqi & Faruqi is a leading national securities law firm with offices in New York, Pennsylvania, California and Georgia. The firm has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors since its founding in 1995. See www.faruqilaw.com.

As detailed below, the complaint alleges that the Company and its executives violated federal securities laws by making false and/or misleading statements and/or failing to disclose that: Defendants provided overwhelmingly positive statements to investors while, at the same time, disseminating materially false and misleading statements and/or concealing material adverse facts concerning the true state of Sprouts' growth potential; notably, that a more cautious consumer could result in significant slowdown in sales growth and the purported tailwinds with be unable to dampen the slowdown or would otherwise fail to manifest entirely. Such statements absent these material facts caused Plaintiff and other shareholders to purchase Sprouts' securities at artificially inflated prices.

On October 29, 2025, Sprouts unveiled its third quarter fiscal 2025 results, which highlighted a worrying 4.3% decrease in comparable stores growth compared to the prior quarter, below the company's previous projections. Management further unveiled a continued reduction of comp sales into the fourth quarter, projecting only a 0%-2% growth, and reduced their full year expectations as well from 7.5% - 9% last quarter to only 7%. While Sprouts is attributing its shortfall to challenging year-over-year comparisons and a softening consumer, just last quarter management attested to their "resilience almost irrespective of what happens in the macro economy."

Following this news, Sprouts' stock price fell by $22.64 per share to open at $81.91 per share.

The court-appointed lead plaintiff is the investor with the largest financial interest in the relief sought by the class who is adequate and typical of class members who directs and oversees the litigation on behalf of the putative class. Any member of the putative class may move the Court to serve as lead plaintiff through counsel of their choice, or may choose to do nothing and remain an absent class member. Your ability to share in any recovery is not affected by the decision to serve as a lead plaintiff or not. 

Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP also encourages anyone with information regarding Sprouts's conduct to contact the firm, including whistleblowers, former employees, shareholders and others.

To learn more about the Sprouts Farmers Market class action, go to www.faruqilaw.com/SFM or call Faruqi & Faruqi partner Josh Wilson directly at 877-247-4292 or 212-983-9330 (Ext. 1310).

Follow us for updates on LinkedIn, on X, or on Facebook.

Attorney Advertising. The law firm responsible for this advertisement is Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP (www.faruqilaw.com). Prior results do not guarantee or predict a similar outcome with respect to any future matter. We welcome the opportunity to discuss your particular case. All communications will be treated in a confidential manner.

SOURCE Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP

GPN's steep YTD slide contrasts with its bold Worldpay deal and solid cash strength, raising questions about what's next for the payments player.

Ucore Updates on Advancements and Accomplishments for:
December 11, 2025 10:07 AM EST | Source: Ucore Rare Metals Inc.
US Department of War HREE Demonstration & RapidSX™ Technology US Transition Project from Ucore's -Kingston, Ontario, CAN, Commercialization and Demonstration Facility
- to -
Alexandria, Louisiana, USA, Strategic Metals Complex & HREE Refinery

Halifax, Nova Scotia--(Newsfile Corp. - December 11, 2025) - Ucore Rare Metals Inc. (TSXV: UCU) (OTCQX: UURAF) ("Ucore" or the "Company") is pleased to update on its RapidSX™ rare earth element ("REE") separation technology commercialization progress and its USD$22.4 million U.S. Department of War ("DoW") Other Transaction Agreement ("OTA" or the "Project") through the U.S. Army Contracting Command-Orlando ("ACC-ORL").

Since the December 2023 start of the demonstration program, Ucore has operated and continuously improved its 52-Stage RapidSX™ Demonstration Plant ("Demo Plant") within the Company's Kingston, Ontario, Commercialization and Demonstration Facility ("CDF"). This work is dedicated to transitioning the Company's RapidSX™ separation technology to its under-construction Louisiana Strategic Metals Complex ("SMC") in Alexandria, Louisiana. The Louisiana SMC is a developing REE separation and oxide production facility focused on the production of mid (SmEuGd) and heavy (initially Tb and Dy, potentially followed by Y, which is in high demand) rare earth elements with the ability to also produce an NdPr rare earth oxide ("REO") product.

The CDF work has focused on the precise manipulation of tonnes of a heavy mixed rare-earth oxide derived from a US-friendly feedstock resource through the series of RapidSX™ splits shown in Figure 1.

Figure 1 - CDF Heavy Rare Earth Processing Demonstration Trials - Road Map to the Louisiana SMC in 2026

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:
https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/1119/277748_9d138dff040b492b_001full.jpg

These splits represent the initial planned REO groups and products for the Louisiana SMC, and in every case have been directly compared to a 52-Stage Conventional Solvent Extractant ("CSX") pilot circuit at the CDF for direct purity and recovery comparisons.

Ucore's advancements and achievements on the Project that lead to Louisiana include:

Completion of about 5,700 hours of REE processing with tonnes of heavy mixed rare earth oxides ("MREO") in an automated and simulated 24-hour per day commercial production environment

Production of LaCe, NdPr, SmEuGd, Sm, Gd, HoYErTmYbLu, TbDy, Tb, and Dy rare earth element groups and products, while:

Demonstrating the use of one RapidSX™ Machine (i.e., the Demo Plant) for all splits and multiple feed stocks

Instituting a continuous improvement program for the RapidSX™Technology Platform in preparation for copy and paste transfer to the Louisiana SMC

Developing the ability to quickly (i.e., within hours) reconfigure the RapidSX™ unit operational equipment (e.g., extract, scrub, strip, etc., components) for specific separation requirements

Honing the ability to stop (i.e., for minutes, hours, days, or weeks) and immediately restart for planned and unplanned events

Establishing protocols for replicating precise and robust manipulation of the standard solvent extraction chemistry within the RapidSX™ technology platform

Construction of a dedicated production environment ICPMS laboratory with seven days per week support (to support 24/7 operations)

Analyzed over 25,000 samples proving that RapidSX™ and CSX yield virtually identical chemistry results

Developed the laboratory and sampling protocols for Louisiana SMC operations

Proven* RapidSX™ improvements over CSX include:

Enhanced OPEX and more environmentally friendly operations through

2 to 4 times faster throughput

Constructed primarily from commercial-off-the-shelf ("COTS") equipment with a significantly reduced individual stage footprint

Leading to a smaller physical plant and environmental impact footprint and an overall CAPEX reduction

*Quantitative affirmation in progress

Full commercial-scale Louisiana SMC work is underway for the installation of RapidSX™ Machine #1 in mid-2026, including:

Field and design engineering, including supporting infrastructure equipment

Permitting activities

Long lead material & equipment procurement

CDF scale-up trials for full-scale RapidSX™ Machine components

Heavy feedstock procurement for initial testing, commissioning, and trials

Including coordination trials starting at the CDF and culminating at the Louisiana SMC

"The nearly two years of CDF demonstration work undertaken by Ucore has been done with deliberate coordination with the Louisiana SMC production roll-out pathway. The result is a technically proven and de-risked commercialization pathway to commence heavy rare earth processing in Louisiana in 2026," stated Mike Schrider, P.E., VP and COO of Ucore. "With our planned sequential deployment of RapidSX™ Machines, based on the unique demonstrated ability to produce products with only one RapidSX™ Machine. Ucore has established a blueprint for smart deployment of capital, with minimal commercial risk, while getting to early heavy rare earth production within the United States of America - a stated objective of the initial OTA."

# # #

About Ucore Rare Metals Inc.

Ucore is focused on rare- and critical-metal resources, extraction, beneficiation, and separation technologies with the potential for production, growth, and scalability. Ucore's vision and plan is to become a leading advanced technology company, providing best-in-class metal separation products and services to the mining and mineral extraction industry.

Through strategic partnerships, this plan includes disrupting the People's Republic of China's control of the North American REE supply chain through the near-term development of a heavy and light rare-earth processing facility in the US State of Louisiana, subsequent SMCs in Canada and Alaska and the longer-term development of Ucore's 100% controlled Bokan-Dotson Ridge Rare Heavy REE Project on Prince of Wales Island in Southeast Alaska, USA ("Bokan").

Ucore is listed on the TSXV under the trading symbol "UCU" and in the United States on the OTC Markets' OTCQX® Best Market under the ticker symbol "UURAF."

For further information, please visit www.ucore.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release includes certain statements that may be deemed "forward-looking statements". All statements in this release (other than statements of historical facts) that address future business development, technological development and/or acquisition activities (including any related required financings), timelines, events, or developments that the Company is pursuing are forward-looking statements. Although the Company believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance or results, and actual results or developments may differ materially from those in forward-looking statements.

Regarding the disclosure in the press release above about the amended OT Agreement and the expected successful progress of the project and the resulting milestone payments from the DoW, the Company has assumed that the project (including each of its milestones and the Company's objectives in this regard) will be completed in a satisfactory manner and in a reasonable period of time within approximately the next two years. Regarding the disclosure in the press release above about the other forms of government support for Ucore, the Company has assumed that the applicable projects (including each of the associated milestones) will be completed satisfactorily and in accordance with the respective agreements or letters of intent (as applicable) for such government support. For additional risks and uncertainties regarding the Company, its business activities, its ability to qualify for and receive any additional funding from any U.S. or Canadian government, the CDF and the aforementioned projects (generally), see the risk disclosure in the Company's MD&A for Q3-2025 (filed on SEDAR+ on November 25, 2025) (www.sedarplus.ca) as well as the risks described below.

Regarding the disclosure above in the "About Ucore Rare Metals Inc." section, the Company has assumed that it will be able to procure or retain additional partners and/or suppliers, in addition to Innovation Metals Corp. ("IMC"), as suppliers for Ucore's expected future SMCs. Ucore has also assumed that sufficient external funding will be found to continue and complete the ongoing research and development work required at the CDF and also later prepare a new National Instrument 43-101 technical report that demonstrates that Bokan is feasible and economically viable for the production of both REE and co-product metals and the then prevailing market prices based upon assumed customer offtake agreements. Ucore has also assumed that sufficient external funding will be secured to continue the development of the specific engineering plans for the SMCs and their construction and eventual commissioning and operations. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include, without limitation: IMC failing to protect its intellectual property rights in RapidSX™; RapidSX™ failing to demonstrate commercial viability in large commercial-scale applications; Ucore not being able to procure additional key partners or suppliers for the SMCs; Ucore not being able to raise sufficient funds to fund the specific design and construction of the SMCs and/or the continued development of RapidSX™; adverse capital-market conditions; unexpected due-diligence findings; the emergence of alternative superior metallurgy and metal-separation technologies; the inability of Ucore and/or IMC to retain its key staff members; a change in the legislation in Louisiana or Alaska and/or in the support expressed by the Alaska Industrial Development and Export Authority (AIDEA) regarding the development of Bokan; the availability and procurement of any required interim and/or long-term financing that may be required; and general economic, market or business conditions.

Neither the TSXV nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined by the TSXV) accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

CONTACTS

Mr. Michael Schrider, P.E., Ucore Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, is responsible for the content of this news release and may be contacted at 1.902.482.5214.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/277748

Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP Securities Litigation Partner James (Josh) Wilson Encourages Investors Who Suffered Losses In MoonLake To Contact Him Directly To Discuss Their Options

If you purchased or acquired securities in MoonLake between March 10, 2024 and September 29, 2025 and would like to discuss your legal rights, call Faruqi & Faruqi partner Josh Wilson directly at 877-247-4292 or 212-983-9330 (Ext. 1310).

[You may also click here for additional information]

NEW YORK, Dec. 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP, a leading national securities law firm, is investigating potential claims against Reuters Research Inc. (“MoonLake” or the “Company”) (NASDAQ: MLTX) and reminds investors of the December 15, 2025 deadline to seek the role of lead plaintiff in a federal securities class action that has been filed against the Company.

Faruqi & Faruqi is a leading national securities law firm with offices in New York, Pennsylvania, California and Georgia. The firm has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors since its founding in 1995. See www.faruqilaw.com.

As detailed below, the complaint alleges that the Company and its executives violated federal securities laws by making false and/or misleading statements and/or failing to disclose that: Defendants made false and/or misleading statements, as well as failed to disclose material facts, regarding the distinction between the Nanobodies and monoclonal antibodies, including that: (1) that SLK and BIMZELX share the same molecular targets (the inflammatory cytokines IL-17A and IL-17F); (2) that SLK’s distinct Nanobody structure would not confer a superior clinical benefit over the traditional monoclonal structure of BIMZELX; (3) SLK’s distinct Nanobody structure supposed increased tissue penetration would not translate to clinical efficacy; and (4) based on the foregoing, Defendants lacked a reasonable basis for their positive statements regarding SLK’s purported superiority to monoclonal antibodies.

On September 28, 2025, MoonLake announced week-16 results from its Phase 3 VELA program. The results showed that SLK failed to demonstrate competitive efficacy relative to BIMZELX.

Following the announcement, MoonLake’s stock price plummeted, falling $55.75 per share, or 89.9%, to close at $6.24 on September 29, 2025.

The court-appointed lead plaintiff is the investor with the largest financial interest in the relief sought by the class who is adequate and typical of class members who directs and oversees the litigation on behalf of the putative class. Any member of the putative class may move the Court to serve as lead plaintiff through counsel of their choice, or may choose to do nothing and remain an absent class member. Your ability to share in any recovery is not affected by the decision to serve as a lead plaintiff or not.  

Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP also encourages anyone with information regarding MoonLake’s conduct to contact the firm, including whistleblowers, former employees, shareholders and others.

To learn more about the MoonLake Immunotherapeutics class action, go to www.faruqilaw.com/MLTX or call Faruqi & Faruqi partner Josh Wilson directly at 877-247-4292 or 212-983-9330 (Ext. 1310).

Follow us for updates on LinkedIn, on X, or on Facebook.

Attorney Advertising. The law firm responsible for this advertisement is Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP (www.faruqilaw.com). Prior results do not guarantee or predict a similar outcome with respect to any future matter. We welcome the opportunity to discuss your particular case. All communications will be treated in a confidential manner.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/2fceea32-072d-4e7c-b9fd-7ceadbf788ad

Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP Securities Litigation Partner James (Josh) Wilson Encourages Investors Who Suffered Losses In Freeport-McMoran To Contact Him Directly To Discuss Their Options

If you purchased or acquired securities in Freeport between February 15, 2022 and September 24, 2025 and would like to discuss your legal rights, call Faruqi & Faruqi partner Josh Wilson directly at 877-247-4292 or 212-983-9330 (Ext. 1310).

[You may also click here for additional information]

, /PRNewswire/ -- Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP, a leading national securities law firm, is investigating potential claims against Freeport-McMoran Inc. ("Freeport" or the "Company") (NYSE: FCX) and reminds investors of the January 12, 2026 deadline to seek the role of lead plaintiff in a federal securities class action that has been filed against the Company.

James (Josh) Wilson, Faruqi & Faruqi Senior Partner (PRNewsfoto/Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP)

Faruqi & Faruqi is a leading national securities law firm with offices in New York, Pennsylvania, California and Georgia. The firm has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors since its founding in 1995. See www.faruqilaw.com.

As detailed below, the complaint alleges that the Company and its executives violated federal securities laws by making false and/or misleading statements and/or failing to disclose that: (1) Freeport did not adequately ensure safety at the Grasberg Block Cave mine in Indonesia;(2)the lack of proper safety precautions constituted a heightened risk that could foreseeably lead to the death of Freeport's workers; (3) this constituted an undisclosed heightened risk of regulatory, litigation, and reputational risk; and (4) as a result, Defendants' statements about Freeport-McMoRan's business, operations, and prospects were materially false and misleading and/or lacked a reasonable basis at all relevant times.

On September 9, 2025, Freeport disclosed it was suspending mining activities at its Grasberg Block Cave operation in Indonesia, after "a large flow of wet material" trapped seven workers.

On this news, Freeport's stock price fell $2.77, or 5.9%, to close at $43.89 per share on September 9, 2025, thereby injuring investors.

Then, on September 24, 2025, Freeport provided an update on the incident, disclosing that two of the trapped team members "were regrettably fatally injured[.]" Meanwhile, "extensive efforts" remained "ongoing in the search for [the five] team members who [remained] missing."

On this news, Freeport's stock price fell $7.69, or 17%, to close at $37.67 per share on September 24, 2025.

Then, on September 25, 2025, before market hours, Bloomberg published an article stating that the "halt in production at the giant Grasberg copper mine in Indonesia looks set to strain the fractious relationship between [Freeport] and its host nation, at a time when the Jakarta government was already looking to take greater control." The article specified that "[the] state controls 51% of the local entity - after a lengthy battle over ownership - but officials have sporadically continued to demand an increased share. That clamor may now intensify."

On this news, Freeport's stock price fell $2.33, or 6.2%, to close at $35.34 on September 25, 2025, thereby injuring investors further.

On September 28, 2025, a news organization focusing on Indonesia, published an article entitled "Freeport Landslide was Preventable, Not Just a Natural Disaster, Says Expert." The article quoted an expert as saying "this danger is not new and should have been anticipated from the beginning[.]"

The court-appointed lead plaintiff is the investor with the largest financial interest in the relief sought by the class who is adequate and typical of class members who directs and oversees the litigation on behalf of the putative class. Any member of the putative class may move the Court to serve as lead plaintiff through counsel of their choice, or may choose to do nothing and remain an absent class member. Your ability to share in any recovery is not affected by the decision to serve as a lead plaintiff or not. 

Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP also encourages anyone with information regarding Freeport's conduct to contact the firm, including whistleblowers, former employees, shareholders and others.

To learn more about the Freeport-McMoran class action, go to www.faruqilaw.com/FCX or call Faruqi & Faruqi partner Josh Wilson directly at 877-247-4292 or 212-983-9330 (Ext. 1310).

Follow us for updates on LinkedIn, on X, or on Facebook.

Attorney Advertising. The law firm responsible for this advertisement is Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP (www.faruqilaw.com). Prior results do not guarantee or predict a similar outcome with respect to any future matter. We welcome the opportunity to discuss your particular case. All communications will be treated in a confidential manner.

SOURCE Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP

Investors in Hanmi Financial Corporation (HAFC - Free Report) need to pay close attention to the stock based on moves in the options market lately. That is because the Jan 16, 2026 $20.00 Put had some of the highest implied volatility of all equity options today.

What is Implied Volatility?Implied volatility shows how much movement the market is expecting in the future. Options with high levels of implied volatility suggest that investors in the underlying stocks are expecting a big move in one direction or the other. It could also mean there is an event coming up soon that may cause a big rally or a huge sell-off. However, implied volatility is only one piece of the puzzle when putting together an options trading strategy.

What do the Analysts Think?Clearly, options traders are pricing in a big move for Hanmi Financial shares, but what is the fundamental picture for the company? Currently, Hanmi Financial is a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) in the Banks - West industry that ranks in the Top 12% of our Zacks Industry Rank. Over the last 60 days, two analysts have increased their earnings estimates for the current quarter, while none have dropped their estimates. The net effect has taken our Zacks Consensus Estimate for the current quarter from earnings of 67 cents per share to 71 cents in that period.

Given the way analysts feel about Hanmi Financial right now, this huge implied volatility could mean there’s a trade developing. Oftentimes, options traders look for options with high levels of implied volatility to sell premium. This is a strategy many seasoned traders use because it captures decay. At expiration, the hope for these traders is that the underlying stock does not move as much as originally expected.

Looking to Trade Options?Check out the simple yet high-powered approach that Zacks Executive VP Kevin Matras has used to close recent double and triple-digit winners. In addition to impressive profit potential, these trades can actually reduce your risk.

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LOS ANGELES, Dec. 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Portnoy Law Firm advises BitDeer Technologies Group, (“BitDeer” or the "Company") (NASDAQ: BTDR) investors off a class action on behalf of investors that bought securities between June 6, 2024 and November 10, 2025, inclusive (the “Class Period”). BitDeer investors have until February 2, 2026 to file a lead plaintiff motion.

Investors are encouraged to contact attorney Lesley F. Portnoy, by phone 844-767-8529 or email: [email protected], to discuss their legal rights, or join the case via https://portnoylaw.com/bitdeer-technologies-group. The Portnoy Law Firm can provide a complimentary case evaluation and discuss investors’ options for pursuing claims to recover their losses.

On November 10, 2025, Bitdeer issued a press release reporting its unaudited financial results for the third quarter of 2025. Among other items, Bitdeer reported earnings per share of -$1.28, significantly missing the consensus estimate of -$0.22. Bitdeer also disclosed that “development of [its] next-generation Seal 04 [ASIC chip] is significantly delayed.” On this news, Bitdeer’s stock price fell $2.63 per share, or 14.9%, to close at $15.02 per share on November 11, 2025.

The Portnoy Law Firm represents investors in pursuing claims caused by corporate wrongdoing. The Firm’s founding partner has recovered over $5.5 billion for aggrieved investors. Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.

Lesley F. Portnoy, Esq.
Admitted CA, NY and TX Bar
[email protected]
310-692-8883
www.portnoylaw.com 

Attorney Advertising

LOS ANGELES, Dec. 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Portnoy Law Firm advises Sprouts Farmers Market, Inc., (“Sprouts” or the "Company") (NASDAQ: SFM) investors off a class action on behalf of investors that bought securities between June 4, 2025 and October 29, 2025, inclusive (the “Class Period”). Spirit investors have until January 26, 2026 to file a lead plaintiff motion.

Investors are encouraged to contact attorney Lesley F. Portnoy, by phone 844-767-8529 or email: [email protected], to discuss their legal rights, or join the case via https://portnoylaw.com/sprouts-farmers-market-inc. The Portnoy Law Firm can provide a complimentary case evaluation and discuss investors’ options for pursuing claims to recover their losses.

According to the lawsuit, defendants provided investors with material information concerning Sprouts’ growth potential for the fiscal year 2025. Defendants’ statements included, among other things, confidence in Sprouts’ customer base to remain resilient to macroeconomic pressures and that Sprouts would instead benefit from the perceived tailwinds from a more cautious consumer. Defendants provided these overwhelmingly positive statements to investors while, at the same time, disseminating materially false and misleading statements and/or concealing material adverse facts concerning the true state of Sprouts’ growth potential; notably, that a more cautious consumer could result in significant slowdown in sales growth and the purported tailwinds would be unable to dampen the slowdown or would otherwise fail to manifest entirely. When the true details entered the market, the lawsuit claims that investors suffered damages.

The Portnoy Law Firm represents investors in pursuing claims caused by corporate wrongdoing. The Firm’s founding partner has recovered over $5.5 billion for aggrieved investors. Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.

Lesley F. Portnoy, Esq.
Admitted CA, NY and TX Bar
[email protected]
310-692-8883
www.portnoylaw.com 

Attorney Advertising

December 11, 2025 09:00 ET

 | Source:

Inotiv, Inc.

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind., Dec. 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Inotiv, Inc. (NASDAQ: NOTV) (the “Company”, or “Inotiv”), a leading Contract Research Organization (CRO) specializing in nonclinical and analytical drug discovery and development services and research models and related products and services, and VUGENE, a multi-omics data analysis company providing advanced artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) solutions for biomedical research, today announced a strategic collaboration designed to accelerate AI-assisted drug discovery and enhance data-driven insights across the drug development continuum.

Through this partnership, Inotiv will integrate VUGENE’s cloud-based bioinformatics and computational platform into its Discovery & Translational Sciences Division, enabling a more efficient and intelligent analysis of complex biological data. The collaboration will enhance Inotiv’s ability to interpret the full spectrum of epigenomic, proteomic, and other molecular datasets, with the goal of ultimately improving the prediction of drug efficacy and safety in early-stage research.

“To maximize the value of our clients’ discovery programs, we must efficiently integrate and interpret complex datasets,” said Scott Daniels, PhD, Senior Vice President of Drug Discovery & Translational Sciences at Inotiv. “VUGENE’s AI-enabled bioinformatics platform gives our team a powerful tool to advance data-driven, AI-assisted discovery, helping clients make faster, more informed decisions.”

For VUGENE, the partnership is an opportunity to expand the reach and application of its computational technologies within real-world research environments.

“Inotiv’s integrated approach to drug discovery, specifically their focus on the qualification of new target biology and disease modeling, makes them an ideal partner,” said Juozas Gordevičius, PhD, Founder and CTO of VUGENE. “Together we can combine advanced multi-omics bioinformatics and AI with experimental expertise to accelerate scientific breakthroughs and improve human health.”

About Inotiv

Inotiv, Inc. is a leading contract research organization dedicated to providing nonclinical and analytical drug discovery and development services and research models and related products and services. The Company’s products and services focus on bringing new drugs and medical devices through the discovery and preclinical phases of development, all while increasing efficiency, improving data, and reducing the cost of taking new drugs and medical devices to market. Inotiv is committed to supporting discovery and development objectives as well as helping researchers realize the full potential of their critical research and development projects, all while working together to build a healthier and safer world. Further information about Inotiv can be found here: https://www.inotiv.com/.

About VUGENE

VUGENE is a global multi-omics data analysis and interpretation company. The VUGENE platform enables the elucidation of disease mechanisms and therapeutic mode-of-action, assisting in the discovery and development of novel treatments. The VUGENE platform integrates biological data from multiple sources including tissue and cellular sources and range from (epi)genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics and metabolomics.

This release contains "forward-looking statements," within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements are generally identified with words such as “aim”, “anticipate”, “assume”, “believe”, “could”, “estimate”, “expect”, “future”, “goal”, “intend”, “likely”, “may”, “plan”, “project”, “seek”, “strategy”, “target”, “will” and similar expressions. Forward-looking statements in this release include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the Company’s new strategic collaboration, including the workings of the collaboration and its expected effects, impacts and results, potential expansions and additional innovation, and commitments to new approach methodologies and their expected effects, impacts and results. These forward-looking statements are not statements of historical facts and represent only the Company’s current expectations regarding such matters. All forward-looking statements are subject to significant risks, uncertainties and changes in circumstances that could cause actual results and outcomes to differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements, including, but are not limited to, those detailed in the Company's filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Further discussion of these risks, uncertainties, and other matters can be found in the Risk Factors detailed in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K as filed on December 4, 2024, as well as other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Except to the extent required by law, the Company does not undertake, and expressly disclaims, any duty or obligation to update publicly any forward-looking statement after the date of this release, whether as a result of new information, future events, changes in assumptions or otherwise. 

Company Contact Investor RelationsInotiv, Inc. LifeSci AdvisorsBeth A. Taylor, Chief Financial Officer Steve Halper(765) 497-8381 (646) [email protected] [email protected]

Vancouver, BC – TheNewswire - December 11, 2025 – Critical Infrastructure Technologies Ltd. (CSE: CTTT) (OTC: CITLF) (FRA: X9V) (“CiTech” or the “Company”) NEARING COMPLETION OF DUE DILIGENCE TO ACQUIRE STATE OF THE ART ENGINEERING BUSINESS WITH STRONG DEFENCE AND MINING CONNECTIONS, WESTERN AUSTRALIA

Kosmos Energy said on Thursday that Senegal's energy ministry has confirmed it has no plans to nationalise the Yakaar-Teranga gas field, in which Kosmos holds a 90% stake, but added it will return the licence by next July if no new partner joins the project.

Amazon (AMZN - Free Report) and Microsoft (MSFT - Free Report) have announced a combined investment of $52.5 billion aimed at accelerating India’s AI and cloud ecosystem. The announcements highlight India’s growing importance as a global hub for advanced digital technologies.

Amazon Commits $35 Billion Investment by 2030Amazon revealed that it plans to invest $35 billion in India by 2030 to drive AI-led digitization, and expand exports, per Reuters, as quoted on Yahoo Finance. Note that Amazon has invested $40 billion in India since 2010, and announced ???a $26 billion investment in 2023, per the above-mentioned source.

This new commitment cements Amazon’s position as one of the largest foreign investors in India. A significant portion of the fresh investment will be directed toward strengthening local cloud and AI infrastructure.

Microsoft Announces $17.5B to Boost India’s AI EcosystemMicrosoft, also pledged $17.5 billion to boost India’s AI capabilities and cloud infrastructure, this week, by 2030. The investment includes expanding hyperscale infrastructure and embedding AI into national platforms, per CNBC. Microsoft pledged $3 billion in investments in January 2025. The new hyperscale cloud region in Hyderabad of India is scheduled to become operational by mid-2026.

Google to Spend $15 Billion on AI Data CenterIn October, Alphabet (GOOGL - Free Report) said that it is deepening its commitment to India with a massive $15 billion investment to build a new AI-focused data center, marking the company’s largest bet on the country to date, per Reuters.

India Emerges as a Global AI and Cloud Investment HotspotIndia’s appeal as an AI and cloud powerhouse has grown sharply in recent months. Intel recently entered inti a major collaboration with Tata Electronics as part of the latter’s $14 billion semiconductor manufacturing project. India is also accelerating efforts to build a domestic semiconductor industry, thanks to substantial government subsidies and multiple private and state-backed initiatives.

ETFs in Focus  Against this backdrop, investors can tap India-based exchange-traded funds (ETFs) like VanEck Digital India ETF (DGIN - Free Report) , iShares India 50 ETF (INDY - Free Report) and Invesco India ETF (PIN - Free Report) .

, /PRNewswire/ -- Opera [NASDAQ: OPRA], the browser innovator and agentic AI company, has today opened public access to Opera Neon. Opera Neon is Opera's experimental browser for AI power users, who wish to get access and make the most of the newest AI technologies as they emerge. Since Oct 2, Opera Neon was available within a closed "Founders" phase, which gave the company time to work with its community and incorporate its feedback. Starting today, the waitlist is removed, and anyone can subscribe to Opera Neon.

What is Opera Neon?

Opera Neon, Opera's AI agentic browser, is now available to the public

Opera Neon is an agentic browser designed for AI power users. Unlike a standard web browser, Opera Neon uses AI agents to perform tasks and even code web apps rather than just display web pages. It also provides its users access to the latest top-tier models, including Gemini 3 Pro and GPT 5.1.

Opera Neon is Opera's testing ground for the latest advancements in AI, intended for those who want to use raw, developing technology before it becomes a mainstream product. To get it, one has to subscribe at $19.90/month.

"Opera Neon is a product for people who like to be the first to the newest AI tech. It's a rapidly evolving project with significant updates released every week. We've been shaping it with our Founders community for a while and are now excited to share the early access to it with a larger audience," said Krystian Kolondra, EVP Browsers.

One subscription, top models

Thanks to its LLM-agnostic AI engine, Opera Neon integrates the industry's latest AI models into a single workspace, allowing them to pay a single monthly fee rather than paying for multiple separate subscriptions.

Current features available to subscribers include:

Model Access: Immediate use of top-tier models including Gemini 3 Pro, GPT-5.1, Veo 3.1, and Nano Banana Pro.
Neon Chat, Do, and Make agents: Tools that can book entire trips or build websites, generate videos, edit documents autonomously.
ODRA deep research agent: A new agent that performs deep research for the user. Its "1-minute research," can gather and synthesize information (with sources) on complex topics.
Community-Led Development
Subscribing to Opera Neon also grants access to an exclusive Discord community. Here, users test features first, discuss the product directly with Opera's developers, and help shape the browser's roadmap.

Availability
Opera Neon is available now for $19.90 per month. Users can download it from https://operaneon.com.

Opera's main browsers (Opera One, Opera GX and Opera Air) continue provide free AI features for general users through Opera AI.

About Opera
Opera is a user-centric and innovative software company focused on enabling the best possible internet browsing experience across devices. Hundreds of millions of people use Opera browsers for their unique features on mobile phones and desktop computers. Founded in 1995 and headquartered in Oslo, Norway, Opera is publicly listed on the Nasdaq stock exchange under the ticker symbol OPRA. Download Opera browsers and other Opera products at opera.com. Learn more at investor.opera.com.

SOURCE Opera Limited

About Angela Harmantas
Angela Harmantas is an Editor at Proactive. She has over 15 years of experience covering the equity markets in North America, with a particular focus on junior resource stocks. Angela has reported from numerous countries around the world, including Canada, the US, Australia, Brazil, Ghana, and South Africa for leading trade publications. Previously, she worked in investor relations and led the foreign direct investment program in Canada for the Swedish government. She earned a Bachelor of... Read more

About the publisher
Proactive financial news and online broadcast teams provide fast, accessible, informative and actionable business and finance news content to a global investment audience. All our content is produced independently by our experienced and qualified teams of news journalists.

Proactive news team spans the world’s key finance and investing hubs with bureaus and studios in London, New York, Toronto, Vancouver, Sydney and Perth.

We are experts in medium and small-cap markets, we also keep our community up to date with blue-chip companies, commodities and broader investment stories. This is content that excites and engages motivated private investors.

The team delivers news and unique insights across the market including but not confined to: biotech and pharma, mining and natural resources, battery metals, oil and gas, crypto and emerging digital and EV technologies.

Use of technology
Proactive has always been a forward looking and enthusiastic technology adopter.

Our human content creators are equipped with many decades of valuable expertise and experience. The team also has access to and use technologies to assist and enhance workflows.

Proactive will on occasion use automation and software tools, including generative AI. Nevertheless, all content published by Proactive is edited and authored by humans, in line with best practice in regard to content production and search engine optimisation.

The Walt Disney Company on Thursday announced it will make a $1 billion equity investment in OpenAI and will allow users to make videos with its copyrighted characters on Sora.

OpenAI launched Sora in September, and it allows users to create short videos by simply typing in a prompt. As part of of the startup's new agreement with Disney, Sora users will be able make content with more than 200 characters across Disney, Marvel, Pixar and Star Wars.

"The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence marks an important moment for our industry, and through this collaboration with OpenAI we will thoughtfully and responsibly extend the reach of our storytelling through generative AI, while respecting and protecting creators and their works," Disney CEO Bob Iger said in a statement.

OpenAI said users will also be able to draw from the same intellectual property while using ChatGPT Images, where they can use natural language prompts to create images. 

Tune in at 10:30 a.m. ET as Disney CEO Bob Iger and OpenAI CEO Sam Altman joins CNBC TV to discuss the media giant's investment. Watch in real time on CNBC+ or the CNBC Pro stream.

This is breaking news. Please refresh for updates.

Key Takeaways BSX advances in PFA with FARAPULSE showing strong growth and favorable trial results.BSX saw U.S. double-digit FARAPULSE growth aided by the adoption of OPAL HDx and integrated NAV technology.BSX gained FDA label expansion and advanced PFA tools like FARAPOINT to broaden AF treatment.
Atrial fibrillation (AF or AFib) is one of the most common abnormal heart rhythms, affecting nearly 38 million people worldwide — a figure projected to nearly triple by 2030. Boston Scientific (BSX - Free Report) holds a leading position in left atrial appendage closure (LAAC) devices while expanding its presence in pulsed field ablation (PFA), the fastest-growing segment of AF treatment. The company’s FARAPULSE, since its launch in the United States in 2024, continues to be the widely used PFA technology.

To date, more than 500,000 patients have been treated with the system, along with consistent and reproducible real-world results. Newly published one-year results from the FARADISE trial reinstates this, showing favorable procedural and safety outcomes and clinical effectiveness across ablation strategies and AF types.

In the third quarter of 2025, FARAPULSE delivered strong double-digit growth in the United States, supported by the accelerating adoption of the OPAL HDx mapping system, with one in three FARAPULSE accounts now using the integrated FARAWAVE NAV and OPAL device. Additionally, the FDA approved the expanded labeling for the system in the treatment of drug-refractory, symptomatic, persistent AF. It was supported by clinical evidence from phase one of the ADVANTAGE AF clinical trial, which met both the primary safety and effectiveness endpoints.

Meanwhile, the positive 12-month primary endpoint results from the second phase of the ADVANTAGE are supporting the FARAPOINT PFA catheter as an adjunct technology to treat atrial flutter in patients with persistent Afib, which Boston Scientific plans to launch by year-end 2025. The company continues to invest to outpace the approximately 15% market growth expected through 2028 by advancing its ecosystem of innovative solutions across both the AF and non-AF segments of the market.

BSX’s Peer UpdatesAbbott (ABT - Free Report) obtained CE Mark for its Volt PFA System in March this year. Recently, the company announced that its over-the-counter continuous glucose monitor (CGM) and app, Lingo, is now available for Android devices. Building on Lingo’s availability in Apple iOS devices, this expansion gives more people access to real-time glucose data, empowering informed choices that help support better energy, sleep, focus and overall well-being.

Medtronic (MDT - Free Report) is the only company with two distinct PFA offerings — PulseSelect and Affera Sphere-9. The company recently announced the FDA clearance of the Hugo robotic-assisted surgery system for urologic surgical procedures. The clearance brings a versatile robotic-assisted platform to U.S. surgeons and health systems seeking to expand soft-tissue robotic surgery programs and access to minimally invasive care.

BSX Price Performance, Valuation and EstimatesIn the past year, Boston Scientific shares have risen 2.5% against the industry’s 3.3% fall.

Image Source: Zacks Investment Research

BSX shares are trading at a forward five-year Price-to-Earnings (P/E) ratio of 27.06, above its median but lower than the industry average.

Image Source: Zacks Investment Research

Earnings estimates for Boston Scientific are showing an upward trend.

Image Source: Zacks Investment Research

BSX stock currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold).  You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.

Analyst’s Disclosure:I/we have no stock, option or similar derivative position in any of the companies mentioned, and no plans to initiate any such positions within the next 72 hours. I wrote this article myself, and it expresses my own opinions. I am not receiving compensation for it (other than from Seeking Alpha). I have no business relationship with any company whose stock is mentioned in this article.

Seeking Alpha's Disclosure: Past performance is no guarantee of future results. No recommendation or advice is being given as to whether any investment is suitable for a particular investor. Any views or opinions expressed above may not reflect those of Seeking Alpha as a whole. Seeking Alpha is not a licensed securities dealer, broker or US investment adviser or investment bank. Our analysts are third party authors that include both professional investors and individual investors who may not be licensed or certified by any institute or regulatory body.

Key Takeaways Edwards Lifesciences sees growth in Surgical Structural Heart, led by RESILIA tissue adoption.EW's TAVR and TMTT segments posted strong Q3 gains supported by new approvals and global rollouts.Macro pressures, higher COGS and ongoing litigation continue to challenge Edwards' profitability.
Edwards Lifesciences Corporation (EW - Free Report) is well-poised to grow in the coming quarters owing to its Surgical Structural Heart, which pioneered the RESILIA tissue. The company’s Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (“TAVR”) platform is positioned for continued global leadership and strong, sustainable growth. Further, the Transcatheter Mitral and Tricuspid Therapies (“TMTT”) business has seen consistent growth over the past few quarters, with Edwards efficiently scaling its fast-growing businesses. Meanwhile, macroeconomic impacts and litigation expenses may hurt its operations.

In the past year, this Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) stock has rallied 13.4% against the 2.1% fall of the industry. The S&P 500 composite has risen 15.2% in the same time frame. 

The renowned global medical device company has a market capitalization of $48.33 billion. Edward Lifesciences’ earnings surpassed estimates in each of the trailing four quarters, delivering an average surprise of 8.89%.

Let’s delve deeper.

Upsides for EW StockSurgical Structural Heart, a Promising Business: The business pioneered the innovative RESILIA tissue, which is backed by more than 40 years of the company’s tissue technology leadership. In the third quarter of 2025, the segment grew 5.3% from the prior-year level, driven by strong global adoption of Edwards’ premium resilient technologies, including INSPIRIS, MITRIS and KONECT. The company continues to see positive procedure growth globally for the many patients treated surgically, including those undergoing complex procedures.

Additionally, management highlighted strong surgical valve performance in the recent PARTNER III seven-year data. Meanwhile, in the past few quarters, the company made progress in advancing important innovations worldwide, including the CE Mark approval for KONECT in Europe and the launch of MITRIS in China.

Image Source: Zacks Investment Research

TAVR Holds Potential: The TAVR business closed the third quarter of 2025 with 10.6% year-over-year growth. Edwards' strong competitive position and pricing remained stable globally. In the United States, the clinical conversations around the EARLY TAVR trial data are leading to a renewed focus on streamlining the management of patients with severe aortic stenosis (AS), enabling closer follow-up and more timely treatment of patients with aortic stenosis. In Europe, the broad-based adoption of the SAPIEN platform and the exit of a competitor resulted in a rebalancing of market share and a modest contribution to Edwards’ sales.

In May, the company received FDA approval for its SAPIEN 3 platform for severe aortic stenosis (AS) patients without symptoms, marking the first FDA approval for TAVR in asymptomatic patients. Following the CE Mark for the Alterra system for congenital heart patients, Edwards is rolling out this therapy in Europe, and initial feedback from clinicians has been positive.

TMTT Portfolio Looks Robust: Edwards is on track for strong, sustainable growth through its advancement in the long-term TMTT strategy, driven by a growing portfolio of innovative therapies. In the third quarter, the segment witnessed a 53% increase in sales compared to the prior year, driven by the strong performance of both PASCAL and EVOQUE systems globally. The adoption of differentiated PASCAL technology is expanding in both new and existing sites worldwide.

Meanwhile, Edwards is making strides with the EVOQUE commercial rollout, successfully activating new sites in both the United States and Europe (other than initial trial centers). In April, Edwards’ SAPIEN M3 mitral valve replacement system received CE Mark for the transcatheter treatment of patients with symptomatic mitral regurgitation who are unsuitable for surgery or transcatheter edge-to-edge (TEER) therapy.

Downsides for EW StockMacro Concerns Put Pressure on the Bottom Line: Edwards’ extensive global operations and overseas manufacturing facilities and suppliers bring certain financial, economic, political and other risks. The industrywide increase in inflationary pressure, supply constraints stemming from geopolitical complications and regulatory changes are weighing heavily on the company’s operating results. The business is also currently experiencing staffing shortages within the hospital systems. This is also putting significant pressure on the margins of Edwards. In the third quarter of 2025, these issues resulted in a 31.3% increase in COGS.

Litigation Charges May Slow Down Growth: In recent years, Edwards has been involved in substantial litigation regarding patent and other intellectual property rights with its competitors. Regardless of the outcome, these matters and regulatory actions, recalls or other actions can materially impact its business, reputation, and ability to attract and retain customers.

EW Stock Estimate TrendThe Zacks Consensus Estimate for Edwards Lifesciences’ 2025 earnings per share (EPS) has increased 1 cent to $2.59 in the past 30 days.

The Zacks Consensus Estimate for the company’s 2025 revenues is pegged at $6.03 billion. This suggests a 1% rise from the year-ago reported number.

Key PicksSome better-ranked stocks in the broader medical space are BrightSpring Health Services (BTSG - Free Report) , lllumina (ILMN - Free Report) and Insulet (PODD - Free Report) .

BrightSpring Health Serviceshas an estimated long-term earnings growth rate of 53.3% compared with the industry’s 15.5% growth. Its earnings beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate in each of the trailing four quarters, with the average surprise being 45.1%. BTSG shares have surged 91.5% compared with the 1.2% rise in the past year.

BTSG sports a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) at present. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.

Illumina, sporting a Zacks Rank #1, has an earnings yield of 3.7% compared to the industry’s -17.9% yield. Shares of the company have dropped 8.6% in the past year against the industry’s 8.6% growth. ILMN’s earnings outpaced estimates in three of the trailing four quarters and missed on one occasion, the average surprise being 6.7%.

Insulet, carrying a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy), has a long-term earnings growth rate of 29% compared to the industry’s 13.2% growth. Shares of the company have risen 8% against the industry’s 3.7% fall. PODD’s earnings surpassed estimates in each of the trailing four quarters, with the average surprise being 17.8%. 

6-month commercial pilot demonstrated increasing demand among prescribersExpansion plan includes doubling the number of sales reps, a new GoodRx partnership, and enhanced digital marketing campaignAdditional clinical sites in ongoing babesiosis treatment trials will be initiated in light of FDA feedback regarding Company’s breakthrough therapy designation request
WASHINGTON, Dec. 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- 60 Degrees Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (NASDAQ: SXTP; SXTPW) (“60 Degrees Pharma” or the “Company”), a pharmaceutical company focused on developing new medicines for vector-borne disease, announced today the planned expansion of the Company’s sales and marketing initiatives after encouraging results from a 6-month commercial pilot that showed an overall increase in product sales. The positive outcome points to increasing market demand for ARAKODA® among prescribers.

In response to the encouraging results, the Company will implement several strategic initiatives designed to expand market reach and accelerate ARAKODA sales in 2026:

Inside Sales Team Expansion:
The number of inside sales representatives will increase to deepen outreach across prescribers, strengthen provider relationships, and enhance product education and support.GoodRx Partnership for Broader Offer Visibility:
The Company will engage with GoodRx to provide wider coverage of its point-of-sale (POS) ARAKODA offer, enabling patients and prescribers to access savings information more efficiently.Enhanced Digital “Surround Sound” Campaign:
Building on initial successes, the ARAKODA Marketing team will continue to optimize its integrated digital marketing campaign, ensuring high-frequency awareness, relevant targeting, and sustained engagement across prescriber audiences.

“Results of our commercial pilot intended to measure market demand among prescribers demonstrated increasing demand trends,” said Chief Executive Officer, Geoff Dow, PhD. “The investments we plan for 2026 reflect our commitment to expand reach, improve access, and support healthcare providers and patients with what we consider to be best-in-class malaria prevention.”

In addition, the Company will add at least two babesiosis clinical sites for its randomized placebo-controlled study in hospitalized babesiosis patients (NCT06207370) and its expanded access study in high risk patients with treatment refractory relapsing disease (NCT06478641), in response to U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) feedback in a recent communication regarding the Company’s request for Breakthrough Therapy Designation. In declining that request, FDA acknowledged that babesiosis meets the criteria for being classified as a serious or life-threatening disease or condition, one of the requirements for being considered for a Breakthrough Therapy Designation, and suggested that the Company resubmit its request with data from ongoing controlled clinical trials for babesiosis treatment.

The new clinical sites may increase the likelihood of enrolling such patients on a more condensed timeline.

Tafenoquine is approved for malaria prophylaxis in the United States under the product name ARAKODA. The safety of the approved regimen of tafenoquine for malaria prophylaxis has been assessed in five separate randomized, double-blind, active comparator or placebo-controlled trials for duration of up to six months. Tafenoquine has not been proven to be effective for treatment or prevention of babesiosis and is not approved by the FDA for such an indication.

About ARAKODA® (tafenoquine)

Tafenoquine is approved for malaria prophylaxis in the United States under the product name ARAKODA®. The safety of the approved regimen of tafenoquine for malaria prophylaxis has been assessed in five separate randomized, double-blind, active comparator or placebo-controlled trials for durations of up to six months.

Tafenoquine was discovered by Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, and the current study was funded by the United States Army Medical & Materiel Development Activity. Tafenoquine was approved for malaria prophylaxis in 2018 in the United States as ARAKODA® and in Australia as KODATEF®. Both were commercially launched in 2019 and are currently distributed through pharmaceutical wholesaler networks in each respective country. They are available at retail pharmacies as a prescription-only malaria prevention drug.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the long terminal half-life of tafenoquine, which is approximately 16 days, may offer potential advantages in less-frequent dosing for prophylaxis for malaria. ARAKODA® is not suitable for everyone, and patients and prescribers should review the Important Safety Information below. Individuals at risk of contracting malaria are prescribed ARAKODA® 2 x 100 mg tablets once per day for three days (the loading phase) prior to travel to an area of the world where malaria is endemic, 2 x 100 mg tablets weekly for up to six months during travel, then 2 x 100 mg in the week following travel.

ARAKODA® (tafenoquine) Important Safety Information

ARAKODA® is an antimalarial indicated for the prophylaxis of malaria in patients aged 18 years of age and older.

Contraindications

ARAKODA® should not be administered to:

Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (“G6PD”) deficiency or unknown G6PD status;Breastfeeding by a lactating woman when the infant is found to be G6PD deficient or ifG6PD status is unknown;Patients with a history of psychotic disorders or current psychotic symptoms; orKnown hypersensitivity reactions to tafenoquine, other 8-aminoquinolines, or any component of ARAKODA®.
Warnings and Precautions

Hemolytic Anemia: G6PD testing must be performed before prescribing ARAKODA® due to the risk of hemolytic anemia. Monitor patients for signs or symptoms of hemolysis.

G6PD Deficiency in Pregnancy or Lactation: ARAKODA® may cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman with a G6PD-deficient fetus. ARAKODA® is not recommended during pregnancy. A G6PD-deficient infant may be at risk for hemolytic anemia from exposure to ARAKODA® through breast milk. Check infant’s G6PD status before breastfeeding begins.

Methemoglobinemia: Asymptomatic elevations in blood methemoglobin have been observed. Initiate appropriate therapy if signs or symptoms of methemoglobinemia occur.

Psychiatric Effects: Serious psychotic adverse reactions have been observed in patients with a history of psychosis or schizophrenia, at doses different from the approved dose. If psychotic symptoms (hallucinations, delusions, or grossly disorganized thinking or behavior) occur, consider discontinuation of ARAKODA® therapy and evaluation by a mental health professional as soon as possible.

Hypersensitivity Reactions: Serious hypersensitivity reactions have been observed with administration of ARAKODA®. If hypersensitivity reactions occur, institute appropriate therapy.

Delayed Adverse Reactions: Due to the long half-life of ARAKODA® (approximately 16 days), psychiatric effects, hemolytic anemia, methemoglobinemia, and hypersensitivity reactions may be delayed in onset and/or duration.

Adverse Reactions: The most common adverse reactions (incidence greater than or equal to 1 percent) were: headache, dizziness, back pain, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, increased alanine aminotransferase, motion sickness, insomnia, depression, abnormal dreams, and anxiety.

Drug Interactions

Avoid co-administration with drugs that are substrates of organic cation transporter-2 or multidrug and toxin extrusion transporters.

Use in Specific Populations

Lactation: Advise women not to breastfeed a G6PD-deficient infant or infant with unknown G6PD status during treatment and for 3 months after the last dose of ARAKODA®. To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact 60 Degrees Pharmaceuticals, Inc. at 1- 888-834-0225 or the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch. The full prescribing information of ARAKODA® is located here.

About 60 Degrees Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
60 Degrees Pharmaceuticals, Inc., founded in 2010, specializes in developing and commercializing new medicines for the treatment and prevention of vector-borne disease. The Company achieved U.S. Food and Drug Administration approval of Its lead product, ARAKODA® (tafenoquine), for malaria prevention, in 2018. ARAKODA is commercially available in the U.S. and Australia. 60 Degrees Pharmaceuticals, Inc. also collaborates with prominent research and academic organizations in the U.S. and Australia. 60 Degrees Pharmaceuticals, Inc. is headquartered in Washington, D.C., with a subsidiary in Australia. Learn more at www.60degreespharma.com.

The statements contained herein may include prospects, statements of future expectations and other forward-looking statements that are based on management’s current views and assumptions and involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties. Actual results, performance or events may differ materially from those expressed or implied in such forward-looking statements.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This press release may contain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward‐looking statements reflect the current view about future events. When used in this press release, the words “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “expect,” “future,” “intend,” “plan,” or the negative of these terms and similar expressions, as they relate to us or our management, identify forward‐looking statements. Forward-looking statements are neither historical facts nor assurances of future performance. Instead, they are based only on our current beliefs, expectations and assumptions regarding the future of our business, future plans and strategies, projections, anticipated events and trends, the economy, activities of regulators and future regulations and other future conditions. Because forward-looking statements relate to the future, they are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks and changes in circumstances that are difficult to predict and many of which are outside of our control. Our actual results and financial condition may differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements. Therefore, you should not rely on any of these forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause our actual results and financial condition to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements include, among others, the following: there is substantial doubt as to our ability to continue on a going-concern basis; we might not be eligible for Australian government research and development tax rebates; if we are not able to successfully develop, obtain FDA approval for, and provide for the commercialization of non-malaria prevention indications for tafenoquine (ARAKODA® or other regimen) or Celgosivir in a timely manner, we may not be able to expand our business operations; we may not be able to successfully conduct planned clinical trials or patient recruitment in our trials might be slow or negligible; and we have no manufacturing capacity which puts us at risk of lengthy and costly delays of bringing our products to market. More detailed information about the Company and the risk factors that may affect the realization of forward- looking statements is set forth in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), including the information contained in our Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC on April 1, 2024, and our subsequent SEC filings. Investors and security holders are urged to read these documents free of charge on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. As a result of these matters, changes in facts, assumptions not being realized or other circumstances, the Company’s actual results may differ materially from the expected results discussed in the forward-looking statements contained in this press release. Any forward-looking statement made by us in this press release is based only on information currently available to us and speaks only as of the date on which it is made. We undertake no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether written or oral, that may be made from time to time, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise.

Media Contact:
Sheila A. Burke
[email protected]
(484) 667-6330

Investor Contact:
Patrick Gaynes
[email protected]

The Federal Reserve lowered interest rates by a quarter percentage point on Dec. 10, 2025, marking its third cut of the year, and hinted at an additional reduction in 2026. The move brings the benchmark federal funds rate to a range of 3.5% to 3.75% after a closely divided vote among policymakers, as mentioned in Yahoo Finance.

Alan Blinder, former Fed vice chair and Princeton economist, already acknowledged the difficulty of the rate cut call earlier this week, predicted before the meeting’s decision that it could take the shape of a “hawkish cut,” as quoted on Yahoo Finance.

A Split Decision Among PolicymakersThe rate cut revealed significant internal disagreement within the central bank. Kansas City Fed President Jeff Schmid and Chicago Fed President Austan Goolsbee argued in favor of keeping rates unchanged, while Fed Governor Stephen Miran pushed for a larger half-point cut. This three-way dissent marks the first time since 2019 that so many officials have opposed a policy action from different angles, as mentioned in Yahoo Finance.

Softened Labor Market, Persistent Inflation Back Rate CutThe Fed will conclude the year facing a softer labor market and inflation still about one percentage point above its 2% target. During a press conference, Fed Chair Jerome Powell described the situation as “challenging” (as quoted on Yahoo Finance), noting that officials are concerned about inflation and the labor market situation.

Outlook for 2026: Limited Easing AheadAfter three rate cuts in 2025 totaling three-quarters of a percentage point, the Fed’s outlook for 2026 looks more controlled. Policymakers continue to project just one rate cut next year, consistent with their September forecast. Fed Funds rate is projected to be 3.4%, the same as forecast in September. Fed Funds rates are expected to be 3.1% for both 2027 and 2028.

Uptick in GDP Growth Projections Real GDP is projected to be 2.3% in 2026 (up from 1.8% predicted in September), 2% in 2027 (up from 1.9% projected in September) and 1.9% in 2028 (up from the earlier estimate of 1.8%). Unemployment rate projections are maintained for 2026 at 4.4% while the rate is projected to decline by one percentage point to 4.2% in 2027. The PCE inflation is projected to be 2.5% (down from the earlier estimate of 2.6%).

ETFs to Buy NowAgainst this backdrop, below we highlight a few exchange-traded funds (ETFs) that could gain ahead.

Avantis U.S. Small Cap Value ETF (AVUV - Free Report)

GDP growth projections have been upped for the U.S. economy. An improving domestic economy bodes well for the pint-sized stocks. Moreover, hawkish tone from the Fed indicates less dovish interest rate policy, going forward. Value stocks perform better in the less dovish policy era.  

Invesco S&P Mid-Cap 400 Pure Value ETF (RFV - Free Report)

Mid-cap stocks have been in high momentum lately. These stocks offer the best of both worlds – small and large ones. These have exposure to both domestic and international economies. With easing trade tensions, normalizing Fed rate policy and improving cues for the U.S. GDP growth, mid-cap stocks are well-positioned for a rally ahead.

State Street SPDR S&P Bank ETF (KBE - Free Report)

Bank stocks have been great shape lately. Cheaper valuation, steepening of the yield curve, and solid earnings growth make the case stronger for the bank ETF investing.Credit demand shows signs of improvement despite softness in the labor market.

Pacer US Cash Cows 100 ETF (COWZ - Free Report)

“Cash-cow investing” means focusing on companies that generate high free cash flow yields. In a shaky economic condition, such cash-rich companies tend to weather the risks efficiently. Cash-rich companies rely less on borrowing. Hence, they are better-positioned in a tighter credit market.