TinyGems
Monthly Picks
D-Wave Quantum Inc. (NYSE: QBTS)
D-Wave Quantum Inc. (NYSE: QBTS) is a leader in quantum computing systems, software and services focused on delivering value to our customers via practical quantum applications for problems such as logistics, artificial intelligence, materials sciences, drug discovery, scheduling, fault detection and financial modeling. As the only provider building both annealing and gate-model quantum computers, the company is unlocking commercial use cases in optimization today, while building the technologies that will enable new solutions tomorrow. Founded in 1999, D-Wave is the world's first commercial supplier of quantum computing solutions.
D-Wave is a pioneer in quantum computing, with a history of delivering the world's first commercial quantum computer; the first real-time quantum cloud service; countless hardware and software product and research milestones; and the planned first cross-platform quantum solution which will deliver both annealing and gate-model quantum computers to customers via an integrated platform. Its current commercial product offerings include: Advantage™ (fifth generation quantum computer), Leap™ (quantum cloud service), Launch™ (quantum computing onboarding service), Ocean™ (full suite of open-source programming tools) and Quantum QuickStart™ (quantum programming training).
D-Wave's relentless pursuit of practical quantum computing has resulted in the technology being used today by some of the world's most advanced enterprises – our customers include more than two dozen of the Forbes Global 2000 companies.
D-Wave's commercial customers include blue-chip industry leaders like Volkswagen, Mastercard, Deloitte, ArcelorMittal, Siemens Healthineers, Unisys, Accenture, BBVA, NEC Corporation, Pattison Food Group Ltd., DENSO and Lockheed Martin. The company owns one of the largest quantum computer intellectual property portfolios in the industry including more than 210 issued U.S. patents. In addition, it has published more than 100 peer-reviewed papers in leading scientific journals.
Advantage™ Quantum Computer
With the Advantage™ Quantum Computer, D-Wave has incorporated two decades of experience and over 10 years of customer feedback to create the first and only quantum computer designed for business applications. The platform features a new processor architecture with over 5,000 qubits and 15-way qubit connectivity. This is 2.5x more connections and more than double the number of qubits than the company's previous generation quantum computer.
D-Wave's quantum computers, first located at the company's facilities in British Columbia, Canada, have been available to North American users through its Leap™ quantum cloud service since 2018. Over the last two years, D-Wave has since introduced new Advantage systems located in Julich, Germany and Marina Del Rey, California, which marked the availability of the first Advantage quantum computer physically located in the United States. This system is part of the USC-Lockheed Martin Quantum Computing Center (QCC) hosted at USC's Information Sciences Institute (ISI), a unit of the University of Southern California's prestigious Viterbi School of Engineering.
Leap Quantum Cloud Service
D-Wave's customers interface with the Advantage quantum computer through the Leap™ quantum cloud service. Leap delivers immediate, real-time access to the company's Advantage quantum computer and quantum hybrid solver service, all with enterprise-class performance and scalability.
Leap allows developers proficient in Python to get started building and running quantum applications. Through a seamless and secure cloud-based connection, users can easily start solving complex problems of up to 1 million variables and 100,000 constraints.
Using Leap, D-Wave customers have developed quantum hybrid applications for use cases in manufacturing, logistics, financial services, life sciences, materials science, retail and transportation. By eliminating the need to wait hours, days, or even weeks, to get good answers to a broad array of problems, D-Wave is helping businesses accelerate solutions to their complex computing problems.
The Leap quantum cloud service is available directly from D-Wave and also in AWS Marketplace.
D-Wave Launch
D-Wave Launch™ is the company's onboarding platform aimed at helping businesses easily start their quantum journey. Through this program, D-Wave's team of experts and partners aid enterprises in identifying best use cases for quantum and work with them to develop a proof of concept and a production pilot.
From there, the team coordinates with customers to get their hybrid quantum applications up and running, providing ongoing Leap quantum cloud access to ensure the application is operating smoothly and delivering real business value.
Target Verticals
While the potential applications for quantum computing are essentially limitless, D-Wave has identified a number of industry verticals as key areas of focus for its quantum architecture, providing case studies for each. These include:
- Manufacturing – D-Wave worked with Volkswagen to identify a commercial optimization application, the binary paint shop problem, which was run on D-Wave's hybrid solver service. The solver outperformed four purely classical methods on problem sizes at commercial scale (N=3,000).
- Life Sciences – Menten AI makes use of D-Wave quantum computing to assist in the design of novel therapeutic peptides—short strings of amino acids that can act as potent drugs. With the rise of COVID-19, D-Wave's Advantage system made it possible to identify molecules that might be especially well-suited for binding and inhibiting the related spike protein, producing several promising peptide designs.
- Finance – Multiverse Computing, a leader in developing quantum solutions for the financial sector, leveraged D-Wave's hybrid solver service in a collaboration with BBVA, one of the world's largest financial institutions. Multiverse helped BBVA with financial portfolio optimization, using D-Wave's quantum technology to identify a portfolio with 15% risk that yielded a 60% return on investment.
- Logistics – SavantX is using the D-Wave Advantage system to optimize operations at the Port of Los Angeles. By using our quantum technology, SavantX improved cargo handling efficiency at Pier 300 with rubber tyred gantry (RTG) cranes by 60%, and the turnaround time for the trucks picking up those cargo containers by 12%
Market Opportunity
The quantum computing total addressable market is projected by the Boston Consulting Group to grow to between $450 billion and $850 billion over the next 15 to 30 years. For quantum hardware, software and service providers, the near-term TAM (3 to 5 years) is expected to be $400 million to $1 billion, growing to $90 billion to $170 billion over the long-term (15-30 years). Driving factors behind this growth include rising investments in quantum computing tech by governments and an increasing number of commercial use-cases.
Forward-thinking organizations see quantum as an opportunity to move ahead of the competition. From finding efficiencies and reducing waste to decreasing time to solution and solving problems abandoned due to complexity, the business value is real. According to data from Hyperion Research, 80% quantum early adopters are planning to increase their commitment to quantum in the next two to three years, and one-third are planning to invest at least $15M USD in quantum efforts.
D-Wave is strategically positioned – in an industry with significant barriers to entry – as evidenced by a decades-long track record serving a roster of blue-chip customers. The company is singularly focused on helping its customers achieve clear value by leveraging quantum computing in practical business applications. As one of very few quantum companies with a full stack of systems, software, developer tools and services, D-Wave is working to enable enterprises, governments, developers and researchers to access the power of quantum computing, thereby providing an intriguing opportunity for prospective investors.
Prior to listing on the NYSE in August 2022, D-Wave raised over $300 million as a private company with significant investors including PSP Investments, Goldman Sachs, BDC Capital, NEC Corporation, Aegis Group Partners and In-Q-Tel.
Leadership Team
Dr. Alan Baratz has served as the CEO of D-Wave since 2020. Previously, as Executive Vice President of R&D and Chief Product Officer, he drove the development, delivery, and support of all of D-Wave's products, technologies, and applications. Dr. Baratz has over 25 years of experience in product development and bringing new products to market at leading technology companies and software startups. As the first president of JavaSoft at Sun Microsystems, he oversaw the growth and adoption of the Java platform from its infancy to a robust platform supporting mission-critical applications in nearly 80 percent of Fortune 1000 companies. He has also held executive positions at Symphony, Avaya, Cisco, and IBM. Dr. Baratz holds a doctorate in computer science from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
John Markovich has served as D-Wave's CFO since 2021. He brings over 25 years of experience serving as CFO for rapidly growing private and public technology companies across all stages of development. Mr. Markovich has directed the finance, accounting, tax, treasury, M&A, legal, operations, customer service, IR, HR, and IT functions for companies ranging from privately held pre-revenue startups to an NYSE-listed Fortune 500 multi-national company with over $1.2 billion in annual revenue. During his career, he has negotiated and closed over 150 debt, equity, M&A, and joint venture transactions exceeding $2.5 billion in value. Mr. Markovich holds a BS in Business from Miami University and an MBA from the Michigan State Graduate School of Business.
FAVO Capital Inc. (OTC: FAVO)
FAVO Capital Inc. (OTC: FAVO) is redefining the private credit and alternative lending industry through a strategic redevelopment of its operations and offerings. With a focus on leveraging financial technology and a client-centric approach, FAVO Capital empowers small to medium-sized businesses with fast, flexible, and reliable access to capital, bridging the gap left by traditional financial institutions.
As part of its strategy to uplist to Nasdaq, FAVO Capital is enhancing its technology platform, operational scalability, and market positioning to meet higher regulatory standards and attract institutional investors. Headquartered in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, FAVO employs over 120 professionals across five global offices, delivering sustainable growth and value for clients and shareholders alike.
Products and Services
- Proprietary Lending Platform and Mobile App (In Development): FAVO Capital is in the early stages of developing an advanced digital platform designed to enhance client engagement and streamline funding processes. This platform will eventually allow businesses to apply for funding products, track progress, and manage repayment efficiencies. A complementary mobile app is also being planned to provide real-time insights and tailored recommendations, laying the groundwork for an improved borrower experience.
- Fintech-Driven Lending Solutions: FAVO Capital is exploring proprietary and third-party technology tools, including advanced analytics and algorithms, to enhance decision-making speed and reliability in the lending process.
- Flexible Financing Options: FAVO specializes in structuring customized capital solutions tailored to the diverse needs of small business owners, offering scalable and adaptable products that evolve with changing market conditions.
Market Opportunity
The private credit market is experiencing exponential growth as traditional banks reduce their focus on small business lending. According to industry reports, the global private credit market is projected to surpass $1.5 trillion by 2025, driven by increasing demand for alternative financing options.
FAVO Capital is uniquely positioned to capture market share within this booming sector by leveraging fintech innovation to meet the needs of underserved small businesses. With a focus on efficiency, speed, and client satisfaction, FAVO addresses critical gaps in the financial ecosystem while building a platform for long-term growth.
Recent Highlights
- Fintech Innovation: Initial investments in app development and analytics lay the groundwork for future operational efficiency and improved borrower experience.
- Operational Scale: A global footprint with over 120 employees combines the agility of a local lender with the reach of an international financial institution.
- Proven Growth: FAVO's technology-driven approach has enabled consistent expansion, solidifying its reputation as a trusted partner for small businesses.
Leadership Team
Vincent Napolitano is a Founder and CEO of FAVO Capital Inc. With over two decades of experience in finance and business development, Vincent has been instrumental in building FAVO Capital into a trusted partner for businesses seeking innovative financial strategies. Prior to founding FAVO Capital, Vincent spent 25 years on Wall Street, holding key positions at prominent firms and developing expertise in structuring complex financial deals. He also served as Chief Investment Officer for multiple special purpose vehicles (SPVs), acquiring private stock in pre-IPO unicorn companies such as Facebook and Twitter.
Shaun Quin is a Founding Member and President of FAVO Capital Inc., overseeing the company's mission to deliver innovative and efficient private credit solutions to small and medium-sized businesses. With over 20 years of global experience as a partner, investor, and director, Shaun brings a strategic and customer-focused approach to his leadership. His expertise in fostering collaboration, building high-performance cultures, and empowering businesses has positioned FAVO Capital as a trusted leader in private lending.
Vaughan Korte, CFO, brings over 15 years of global financial expertise to his role with FAVO Capital Inc. His track record includes managing financial operations for Adidas across 60 countries with budgets exceeding $500 million. Vaughan's leadership ensures FAVO Capital remains financially resilient, aligning financial strategy with organizational goals and fostering shareholder value.
Glen Steward, Chief Strategy Officer, is a seasoned entrepreneur with over 28 years of experience in the investment and trading industries. He drives FAVO Capital's strategic initiatives, ensuring the company remains competitive and agile in a rapidly evolving market. Glen has held directorships and board memberships across Mauritius, South Africa, and the United States. His strategic acumen has been pivotal in integrating the FAVO Group of Companies into FAVO Capital Inc., fueling growth and market leadership.
Advisory Board
Bilal Adam, Accounting & Financial Counsel, is a financial expert with over 20 years of experience, including roles as CEO of Stewards Investment Capital. His insights into bespoke investment solutions, including fixed income, equity, and digital assets, support FAVO Capital's innovative approach to private credit.
Honorable Earnest Hart, Corporate Governance Counsel, brings decades of legal and governance experience, having served as a New York Supreme Court Judge and COO at Columbia University Medical Center. His guidance ensures FAVO Capital maintains robust corporate governance standards.
Rocco Trotta, Business Leadership and Scalability Counsel, is the co-founder of LiRo-Hill and has decades of experience scaling businesses. His expertise in organizational efficiency and talent development strengthens FAVO Capital's ability to attract excellence across all aspects of the business.
As FAVO Capital redevelops its operations and prepares for an uplisting to Nasdaq, the company is laying the foundation to redefine private credit with emerging fintech solutions and exceptional leadership. Learn more by visiting investors.favocap.com.
Intelligent Bio Solutions Inc. (NASDAQ: INBS)
Intelligent Bio Solutions Inc. (NASDAQ: INBS) is a medical technology company pioneering rapid, non-invasive diagnostics through its proprietary Intelligent Fingerprinting Drug Screening System. By utilizing fingerprint sweat analysis, the company offers a cost-effective, hygienic solution to detect recent drug use — targeting substances commonly found in workplace settings such as opiates, cocaine, methamphetamine, and cannabis. This innovative approach positions INBS to transform drug testing protocols, particularly in industries where safety and speed are mission critical.
The company's vision is to redefine drug screening by removing the pain points of traditional testing methods, including biohazardous waste, privacy concerns, and long result turnaround times. With results in under 10 minutes and no need for gender-specific collectors or laboratory facilities, the system empowers companies and organizations to screen more efficiently. INBS continues to drive adoption in international markets, with customers spanning construction, logistics, healthcare, government, and drug treatment sectors.
INBS's mission is centered on delivering accessible, transformative solutions that improve lives and operational safety. As the company expands toward a planned U.S. market launch in 2025, it is also strengthening its intellectual property portfolio and localizing solutions for Spanish-speaking regions.
The company is headquartered in New York, New York.
Intelligent Fingerprinting Drug Screening System
Intelligent Bio Solutions' flagship offering is the Intelligent Fingerprinting Drug Screening System, a portable, three-part solution that includes a fingerprint collection cartridge, a lateral flow-based DSR-Plus reader, and software for rapid drug screening. Designed to be used on-site, this system eliminates the complexities and hazards of urine and saliva tests, offering a clean, fast, and non-invasive alternative.
The system screens for a broad range of substances including opiates, methamphetamine, cocaine, cannabis, benzodiazepines, and more. Its cost advantage is significant — point-of-care fingerprint tests cost approximately $20, compared to $300 for typical urine or saliva testing. The platform includes over 1,000 DSR-Plus Readers installed across customer sites, supporting a base of more than 450 active customer accounts globally. In clinical studies, the system demonstrated 94.1% accuracy and 100% specificity, providing a credible foundation for future FDA approvals and market expansion.
In addition to drug screening, INBS is developing a proprietary biosensor platform designed to detect specific biomarkers from non-invasive samples such as sweat, saliva, and interstitial fluid. These additional applications remain under development.
Market Opportunity
Intelligent Bio Solutions operates at the intersection of workplace safety, public health, and diagnostic innovation. The company is targeting the drug screening products market, which is projected to reach $14.9 billion by 2030, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12.1%, according to Research and Markets.
In the U.S., substance abuse is a $400 billion issue, with more than 70% of individuals using illicit drugs or alcohol currently employed. This presents an urgent need for scalable, workplace-compatible screening technologies. Industries such as transportation, construction, mining, and healthcare are among the highest adopters of employee drug testing protocols, driven by regulatory requirements and safety imperatives.
INBS's non-invasive solution is well-positioned to capitalize on trends toward less invasive, faster, and more convenient testing methods — potentially displacing legacy systems reliant on urine or saliva testing, which have longer turnaround times and greater administrative burdens.
Leadership Team
Harry Simeonidis, Chief Executive Officer, has over 25 years of experience across the healthcare, pharmaceutical, and life sciences industries. He previously served as General Manager for Surgery, Asia Pacific at GE Healthcare. Prior to that, he was President and CEO of GE Healthcare ANZ, where he led significant market share growth.
Spiro Sakiris, Chief Financial Officer, brings 34 years of expertise in accounting, taxation, IPO preparation, and capital raising. He is highly experienced with IFRS and U.S. GAAP applications in the life sciences sector and is a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Australia & New Zealand.
Massimo Group (NASDAQ: MAMO)
Massimo Group (NASDAQ: MAMO) is a prominent manufacturer and distributor specializing in powersports vehicles and recreational watercraft. Established in 2009, the company has built a reputation for delivering value-packed utility terrain vehicles (UTVs), all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), and on-road vehicles to both recreational enthusiasts and professionals in the agricultural sector. In 2020, Massimo expanded its offerings by launching Massimo Marine, dedicated to crafting high-quality watercraft with advanced designs and exceptional customer service.
Massimo Group is focused on sustainability. Its recent initiatives, including the introduction of the MVR Series of electric carts, highlight the company's commitment to eco-friendly solutions that address growing consumer demand for sustainability in the powersports and marine industries.
The company's manufacturing capabilities have also evolved significantly. Its expanded 376,000-square-foot facility in Garland, Texas, now features advanced automation, including a vehicle assembly robot line. This addition is expected to significantly enhanced production capacity and efficiency, enabling Massimo to scale its operations and better meet market demand.
Product Portfolio
Massimo Group's product portfolio showcases its dedication to innovation and versatility. Its diverse lineup combines advanced features, sustainability, and value to meet the needs of a dynamic market.
- Massimo Motor: This category includes a wide range of UTVs, ATVs, go-karts, and mini-bikes designed for both recreational and practical applications. Notable recent additions include the T-Boss 1000 UTV, which combines rugged performance with advanced features, and the GKD 350 All-Terrain Go-Kart, a versatile two-seater ideal for various terrains. The Buck 550-6 Crew, a six-seater UTV, further expands this lineup, providing comfort and utility for families and light-duty users at an accessible price point.
- Massimo Marine: Specializing in pontoon and tritoon boats, this division emphasizes luxury and performance. A recent collaboration between Massimo and Vision Marine Technologies has introduced electric pontoon platforms, catering to consumers seeking eco-friendly watercraft for both commercial and recreational use.
- Massimo Electric: Reflecting the company's commitment to sustainability, Massimo Electric focuses on low-speed electric vehicles (LSVs) tailored for diverse applications. Recent launches include the MVR 2X Golf Cart and MVR Cargo Max Utility Cart, which deliver advanced features and versatility for recreational users and professionals in industries like farming and groundskeeping.
By combining practicality with cutting-edge design, Massimo Group seeks to set the standard in the powersports and marine industries.
Market Opportunity
The global ATV and UTV market is experiencing robust growth, with North America projected to reach approximately $9.18 billion in 2024 and expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.8% to $13.37 billion by 2029, according to Mordor Intelligence. Likewise, the U.S. electric UTV and ATV powertrain market is rapidly expanding. It was valued at $2.46 billion in 2022 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 10.2%, reaching $5.18 billion by 2030, as reported by Grand View Research.
The pontoon boat market complements this growth, driven by increased interest in leisure and marine tourism. The market size exceeded $7.9 billion in 2022 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 8.3% through 2032, according to Global Market Insights. Massimo Marine's introduction of electric pontoon platforms through its Vision Marine partnership is expected to position the company to effectively address this growing market segment.
With strategic partnerships and an expanding dealer network, Massimo believes it is poised to penetrate deeper into domestic and international markets. The company's service coverage currently includes over 2,800 retail locations, 600 motor service centers, and 5,500 marine service centers, ensuring robust support and accessibility for customers. This extensive distribution network underpins Massimo's ability to capture market share and drive sustained growth.
Leadership Team
David Shan, Founder, Chairman, and CEO, established Massimo Motor in 2009 and Massimo Marine in 2020. He has led the company through significant growth phases, including the development of diverse product lines and its public listing. Shan holds a bachelor's degree in international trade from Qingdao Ocean University of China.
Dr. Yunhao Chen, CPA, serves as the company's Chief Financial Officer, bringing extensive experience in capital markets, financial reporting, and corporate governance since her appointment in May 2023. She holds a Ph.D. in Accounting and an MBA in Finance from the University of Minnesota.
Michael Smith, Vice President, joined Massimo in 2019 and played a pivotal role in launching Massimo Marine. With a strong background in powersports retail and product innovation, he is dedicated to driving new product development. Smith studied International Business and Marketing at the University of California, San Diego.
Nutriband Inc. (NASDAQ: NTRB)
Nutriband Inc. (NASDAQ: NTRB) is engaged in the development of a portfolio of transdermal pharmaceutical products. The company's AVERSA™ technology can be incorporated into any transdermal patch and includes aversive agents to prevent abuse, diversion, misuse and accidental exposure to drugs with abuse potential, specifically opioids.
AVERSA technology has the potential to improve the safety profile of transdermal drugs susceptible to abuse, such as fentanyl, while making sure that these drugs remain accessible to patients who need them. The technology is covered by a broad intellectual property portfolio with patents granted in the United States, Europe, Japan, Korea, Russia, Canada, Mexico, Australia, and China, with recent extensions into Macao.
The company's business model is to apply its transdermal technology to existing FDA-approved drugs with a goal of improving safety, efficacy and patient comfort while qualifying for a limited-development regulatory pathway that reduces the number of clinical trials required for approval of new drugs.
Nutriband has three subsidiaries, including 4P Therapeutics, its clinical and regulatory subsidiary; Pocono Pharmaceutical, a contract manufacturer for a wide range of clients; and Active Intelligence, a developer of sports recovery products. This ownership of manufacturing and clinical development capabilities drastically reduces costs for AVERSA and other technologies.
In April 2024, Nutriband announced that the company had been engaged by and received a first order from Fit For Life Group, a major brand license holder. A fully executed supplier agreement is expected to follow. Nutriband's wholly owned Active Intelligence subsidiary will act as manufacturer.
In February 2025, the company formalized its product development partnership with Kindeva Drug Delivery through a long-term exclusive agreement. The collaboration supports the commercial pathway for AVERSA Fentanyl by leveraging Kindeva's FDA-approved transdermal fentanyl patch system.
The company is headquartered in Orlando, Florida.
Products
Nutriband's lead product candidate is AVERSA Fentanyl, an abuse-deterrent fentanyl transdermal patch. The company announced in March 2024 that it will submit a New Drug Application to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration seeking approval to market AVERSA Fentanyl. In subsequent updates, Nutriband confirmed that the NDA submission remains the company's primary focus and is backed by a strong cash position.
Nutriband has partnered with Kindeva Drug Delivery, a leading global contract development and manufacturing organization, to incorporate Nutriband's AVERSA abuse-deterrent transdermal technology into Kindeva's FDA-approved transdermal fentanyl patch system. Because Nutriband's abuse-deterrent technology is incorporated into the fentanyl patch but is physically separate from and does not come in contact with the drug layer, the clinical trials typically needed to demonstrate safety and efficacy for a new drug formulation would not be required.
In support of this commercialization strategy, Nutriband closed an $8.4 million private placement in April 2024 to fund development activities related to AVERSA Fentanyl. The company also licensed Bitrex®, a widely used aversive agent, to enhance the deterrent profile of its patch formulation.
AVERSA Fentanyl has the potential to be the first and only abuse deterrent patch approved anywhere in the world. The company plans to seek an expedited review by the FDA, as has been granted for certain abuse-deterrent oral opioid products, which shortens the regulatory review period to six months from the conventional 10-month FDA review cycle for NDAs.
Nutriband's AVERSA product development pipeline also includes abuse deterrent versions of currently approved and marketed transdermal patches containing buprenorphine, an opioid used to treat opioid use disorder, and methylphenidate, a central nervous system stimulant used in the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Both are labeled with FDA-required warnings for the risk of abuse and misuse, as well as warnings against accidental exposure.
Market Opportunity
Nutriband cites a market analysis report from Boston-based Health Advances, a healthcare and life sciences consulting firm. According to the report, upon FDA approval, AVERSA Fentanyl has the potential to reach peak annual sales of $200 million in the U.S.
The company further states that, should non-abuse-deterrent transdermal fentanyl products lose FDA marketing approval, AVERSA Fentanyl would have greater pricing flexibility and would have the potential to generate more than $500 million in annual revenue.
Management Team
Gareth Sheridan is Co-Founder and CEO of Nutriband. He was Ireland's 'Young Entrepreneur of the Year' in 2014 for establishing Nutriband. He has worked as a Business Mentor with 100 Minds, a social enterprise that brings together some of Ireland's top college students and connects them with a cause to achieve large charitable goals. He received a B.Sc. in Business and Management from Dublin Institute of Technology.
Serguei Melnik is Co-Founder and President of Nutriband. He has been involved in general business consulting for companies in the U.S. financial markets and setting up legal and financial frameworks for operations of foreign companies in the U.S. He previously was the COO of Florida-based Asconi Corporation. He also was a lawyer in the Department of Foreign Affairs, JSC Bank "Inteprinzbanca," in Chisinau, Moldova, and prior to that practiced law in Moldova. He is fluent in four languages.
Jeff Patrick, Pharm.D., is Chief Scientific Officer of Nutriband. He currently serves as Director of the Drug Development Institute at the Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center. His prior roles included Global Vice President at Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals Inc.; and roles at Dyax, Myogen/Gilead, Actelion and Sanofi-Synthelabo Inc. He was a clinical pharmacist at the University of Tennessee Medical Center and a clinical assistant professor of pharmacy at the University of Tennessee College of Pharmacy.
Gerald Goodman is CFO of Nutriband. He is a certified public accountant with his own firm, Gerald Goodman CPA. He also practiced with Madsen & Associates, CPAs, and was a partner in the accounting firm of Wiener, Goodman & Company. He is also a director of Lifestyle Medical Network Inc., which provides management services to healthcare providers. He is a graduate of Pennsylvania State University, where he received a bachelor's degree in accounting.
Platinum Group Metals Ltd. (NYSE American: PLG) (TSX: PTM)
Platinum Group Metals Ltd. (NYSE American: PLG) (TSX: PTM) is the operator of the Waterberg Project, a bulk underground platinum group metals (PGM) deposit discovered by Platinum Group in 2011 and located on the Northern Limb of the Bushveld Complex in South Africa. The Waterberg Project is planned as a fully mechanised platinum, palladium, rhodium and gold mine, including by-product copper and nickel production, and is projected to be one of the largest and lowest cost PGM mines globally.
The project is a joint venture between Platinum Group; integrated PGM producer Impala Platinum Holdings Ltd. (OTCQX: IMPUY); Japanese consortium HJ Platinum, which includes trading house Hanwa Co. and the government-backed Japan Organization for Metals and Energy Security (JOGMEC); and local empowerment partner Mnombo Wethu Consultants (Pty) Ltd.
The company's primary business objective is to advance the Waterberg Project to a development and construction decision.
PGMs are essential and precious metals that include platinum, palladium, rhodium, iridium, osmium and ruthenium. These metals are known for their purity, high melting points and unique catalytic properties. They are utilized in a number of industrial processes, technologies and commercial applications and play a critical role in autocatalysis and pollution control in the automotive sector. The bulk of global PGMs are mined in Southern Africa and Russia.
The unique properties of PGMs are being applied to various technologies as possible solutions for more efficient energy generation and storage, which may create new demand for PGMs. The company's battery technology initiative through Lion Battery Technologies Inc., using platinum and palladium in lithium sulfur battery chemistry , represents one such new opportunity in the high-profile lithium battery research and innovation field.
Platinum Group Metals Ltd. founded Lion Battery Technologies Inc. in partnership with Anglo American Platinum Ltd. (AMS: JNB) to support the use of palladium and platinum in lithium battery applications. Lion Battery has entered into an agreement with Florida International University to further advance a research program that uses platinum and palladium to unlock the potential of Lithium Sulfur (Li-S) battery chemistries.
Platinum Group is headquartered in Vancouver, B.C., and Johannesburg, South Africa.
Waterberg Project
The company's principal product from the Waterberg Project will be a PGM-bearing concentrate. The concentrate will contain economic amounts of six elements comprising platinum, palladium, rhodium, gold, copper and nickel. The company's partner in the Waterberg Project, Impala Platinum Holdings, has acquired a right of first refusal to enter into an offtake agreement, on commercial arm's-length terms, for the smelting and refining of mineral products from the Waterberg Project. In 2023 Platinum Group entered an agreement with Ajlan & Bros Mining and Metals to study establishment of a PGM processing acility in Saudi Arabia.
The Waterberg project has proven and estimated reserves of 23.41 million ounces of PGMs and gold. When fully operational, the mine is projected to produce more than 350,000 ounces of PGMs annually during the peak period of steady state production. The life of the mine is projected at 54 years.
South Africa's PGM mining sector remains closely tied to economic developments in the global automotive industry, which in 2022 accounted for approximately 43% of the total global demand for platinum and 82% of the total global demand for palladium.
Market Opportunity
According to a report from Straits Research, a global market and business research firm, the worldwide platinum market had an estimated value of $7.72 billion in 2022 and is projected to reach $11.95 billion by 2031. That represents a CAGR of 5.13% over the forecast period.
Platinum, one of the rarest of precious metals, is about 30 times scarcer than gold. It is crucial to the automotive and electronics industries and is also used to make jewelry. Stricter emissions regulations around the world have led to an increased demand for platinum to be used in catalytic converters to reduce automotive emission, the report states.
A report from Allied Market Research estimated the global palladium market at $16.3 billion in 2021 and projects the market will reach $28.6 billion by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 5.8% over the period.
Palladium is also used in automotive catalytic converters for reducing emissions and in jewelry, dentistry, watchmaking, blood sugar test strips, aircraft spark plugs, surgical instruments, electrical contacts and musical instruments.
An increase in demand for consumer electronics has driven demand for palladium-based multilayer ceramic capacitors (MLCC) used to store energy in electronic devices such as broadcasting equipment, mobile telephones, computers, electronic lighting and high voltage circuits, according to the report.
Management Team
Frank R. Hallam is Co-Founder, Director, President and CEO of Platinum Group. He has over 30 years of experience in the mining, minerals and petroleum industry as an operator, principal and founder. He was a co-founder and former CFO of MAG Silver Corp. He was also co-founder and director of West Timmins Mining Inc. and a director of Lake Shore Gold Corp. In addition, he was CFO and director with gold exploration company Tan Range Exploration Corp. He is a Chartered Professional Accountant and was formerly an auditor in the public mining practice of PwC. He holds a Bachelor of Business Administration from Simon Fraser University.
Greg Blair is CFO of Platinum Group. He has been with Platinum Group since 2010 in various roles, most recently as Interim CFO. Prior to joining Platinum Group, he was at a public accounting firm working on public company (mainly mining) audits. He is a Chartered Professional Accountant and holds a degree in Economics from Simon Fraser University and has completed the Canadian Securities Course.
Kris Begic is VP Corporate Development of Platinum Group. He has over 25 years of experience in the mining industry and capital markets and has been involved with the raising of over $500 million for various exploration and development projects globally. His efforts are focused on project generation, mergers and acquisitions, capital markets, investor relations and marketing.
SolarBank Corp. (NASDAQ: SUUN) (Cboe CA: SUNN) (FSE: GY2)
SolarBank Corp. (NASDAQ: SUUN) (Cboe CA: SUUN) (FSE: GY2) is a premier developer and owner of renewable and clean energy projects, specializing in distributed and community solar initiatives throughout Canada and the United States. The company is committed to advancing the transition to sustainable energy by offering end-to-end services that include project origination, financing structuring, engineering, procurement, construction, and long-term operations and maintenance. SolarBank focuses on delivering innovative energy solutions through solar photovoltaic systems, battery energy storage systems (BESS), and electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure.
With a vision to provide scalable and reliable clean energy solutions, SolarBank has established itself as a leader in the renewable energy market by cultivating partnerships with utilities, commercial and industrial entities, municipalities, and residential customers. Its vertically integrated business model allows for optimized efficiency, cost management, and returns across diverse markets in North America. This end-to-end approach ensures greater control over project quality, costs, and operational outcomes, strengthening its competitive position.
Driven by a mission to create a greener future, SolarBank manages a robust portfolio of projects, including more than 100 megawatts (MW) of developed capacity and a pipeline exceeding one gigawatt (GW). The company's commitment to sustainability and innovation makes it a recognized player in the renewable energy sector.
SolarBank has offices in Toronto, Ontario and New York.
Projects
SolarBank boasts an impressive and diverse portfolio of renewable energy initiatives that underline its leadership in the clean energy space. In the U.S., the company has over 250 MW of solar projects under development, principally in New York, focusing on community solar farms and commercial and industrial installations. Notably, SolarBank is developing several community solar projects in upstate New York, which will deliver clean energy to local residents and small businesses. Community solar projects, which are a cornerstone of SolarBank's portfolio, provide scalable solutions for renters, homeowners, and small businesses to access affordable renewable energy, driving localized energy independence and economic savings.
In Canada, SolarBank has been a significant participant in Ontario's Feed-in-Tariff program, where it has secured contracts for close to 200 MW of capacity. Its current management includes 70 solar power projects, totaling 28.8 MW of operational solar assets. The company's expertise extends to the development and ownership of battery energy storage systems and EV charging stations, further diversifying its portfolio.
The company's vertically integrated approach spans the entire project lifecycle, from initial site acquisition and grid interconnection to long-term operation and maintenance services. This ensures seamless execution and high-quality outcomes, providing value to stakeholders and supporting the transition to a clean energy future.
Market Opportunity
SolarBank operates within a growing renewable energy market driven by global demand for sustainable power solutions. In North America, favorable policies such as the Inflation Reduction Act in the United States and Canada's investments in green technologies provide a robust foundation for renewable energy adoption. Solar PV installations and battery energy storage systems are at the forefront of this expansion, addressing energy reliability and grid stability while reducing carbon emissions.
The North American solar PV market was valued at $25.02 billion in 2019 and is projected to reach $120.74 billion by 2027, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 21.7% from 2020 to 2027. Likewise, the global BESS market is expected to expand from $7.8 billion in 2024 to $25.6 billion by 2029, at a CAGR of 26.9%, as reported by MarketsandMarkets. These trends are driven by the increasing integration of renewable energy sources, the need for grid resilience, and declining technology costs.
SolarBank's operations have it well-positioned to capitalize on these opportunities. With a development pipeline exceeding one gigawatt (GW), the company is focused on meeting growing demand in community and commercial solar sectors. Decentralized energy solutions, such as virtual net metering and behind-the-meter systems, further enhance SolarBank's market potential by addressing the critical need for flexible, cost-effective, and sustainable energy infrastructure. By leveraging its vertically integrated model and diversified portfolio, SolarBank stands as a key player in driving the renewable energy transition.
Leadership Team
Dr. Richard Lu, MD, MSc., MHSc., MBA, serves as President and CEO of SolarBank, bringing over 25 years of global energy experience. His leadership has been instrumental in advancing the company's strategic initiatives across North America, Europe, and Asia, with a focus on renewable energy development and operational excellence.
Sam Sun, MBA, is the Chief Financial Officer of SolarBank. A Chartered Professional Accountant with more than 15 years of expertise in corporate finance, Mr. Sun has overseen financial strategies and internal controls across the cleantech, manufacturing, and mining sectors in Canada, the U.S., and China.
Andrew van Doorn, PE, serves as Chief Operating Officer, with nearly three decades of experience in engineering and construction. Mr. van Doorn has successfully led projects totaling over 200 MW of solar capacity and is a former Chairman of the Canadian Solar Industries Association.
Tracy Zheng, MBA, Chief Development Officer, has over 25 years of experience in brand marketing, business development, and solar project operations. She has spearheaded sales initiatives, conducted feasibility studies, and negotiated key partnerships that drive SolarBank's growth.
Matt Wayrynen, Executive Chairman and Director, has a background in resource company management, venture capital, and mergers and acquisitions. Under his leadership, Solar Flow-Through Funds, where Mr. Wayrynen acted as CEO, was acquired by SolarBank, enhancing its asset portfolio and growth prospects.
Forward Looking Statements
This report contains forward-looking statements and forward-looking information within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation (collectively, "forward-looking statements") that relate to the Company's current expectations and views of future events. Any statements that express, or involve discussions as to, expectations, beliefs, plans, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance (often, but not always, through the use of words or phrases such as "will likely result", "are expected to", "expects", "will continue", "is anticipated", "anticipates", "believes", "estimated", "intends", "plans", "forecast", "projection", "strategy", "objective" and "outlook") are not historical facts and may be forward-looking statements and may involve estimates, assumptions and uncertainties which could cause actual results or outcomes to differ materially from those expressed in such forward-looking statements. In particular and without limitation, this report contains forward-looking statements pertaining to the Company's expectations regarding its industry trends and overall market growth of the data center market; the Company's expansion into the data center market, including its pursuit of opportunities as a developer, owner, and strategic partner in data center infrastructure; supporting the demand for high-performance, sustainable energy solutions within the sector; details of the company's business plan including development of solar power projects, battery storage projects and EV charging projects; the completion of any contracts for, or construction of, any data center, solar power, battery storage or EV projects; the receipt of interconnection approval, permits and financing to be able to construct projects; the receipt of incentives for projects; and the size of the Company's development pipeline. No assurance can be given that these expectations will prove to be correct and such forward-looking statements included in this report should not be unduly relied upon. These statements speak only as of the date of this report.
Forward-looking statements are based on certain assumptions and analyses made by the Company in light of the experience and perception of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments and other factors it believes are appropriate, and are subject to risks and uncertainties. In making the forward looking statements included in this report, the Company has made various material assumptions, including but not limited to: obtaining the necessary regulatory approvals; that regulatory requirements will be maintained; general business and economic conditions; the Company's ability to successfully execute its plans and intentions; the availability of financing on reasonable terms; the Company's ability to attract and retain skilled staff; market competition; the products and services offered by the Company's competitors; that the Company's current good relationships with its service providers and other third parties will be maintained; and government subsidies and funding for renewable energy will continue as currently contemplated. Although the Company believes that the assumptions underlying these statements are reasonable, they may prove to be incorrect, and the Company cannot assure that actual results will be consistent with these forward-looking statements. Given these risks, uncertainties and assumptions, investors should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements.
Whether actual results, performance or achievements will conform to the Company's expectations and predictions is subject to a number of known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other factors, including those listed under "Forward-Looking Statements" and "Risk Factors" in the Company's most recently completed Annual Information Form, and other public filings of the Company, which include: the Company may be adversely affected by volatile solar power market and industry conditions; the execution of the Company's growth strategy depends upon the continued availability of third-party financing arrangements; the Company's future success depends partly on its ability to expand the pipeline of its energy business in several key markets; governments may revise, reduce or eliminate incentives and policy support schemes for solar and battery storage power; general global economic conditions may have an adverse impact on our operating performance and results of operations; the Company's project development and construction activities may not be successful; developing and operating solar projects exposes the Company to various risks; the Company faces a number of risks involving Power Purchase Agreements ("PPAs") and project-level financing arrangements; any changes to the laws, regulations and policies that the Company is subject to may present technical, regulatory and economic barriers to the purchase and use of solar power; the markets in which the Company competes are highly competitive and evolving quickly; an anti-circumvention investigation could adversely affect the Company by potentially raising the prices of key supplies for the construction of solar power projects; foreign exchange rate fluctuations; a change in the Company's effective tax rate can have a significant adverse impact on its business; seasonal variations in demand linked to construction cycles and weather conditions may influence the Company's results of operations; the Company may be unable to generate sufficient cash flows or have access to external financing; the Company may incur substantial additional indebtedness in the future; the Company is subject to risks from supply chain issues; risks related to inflation; unexpected warranty expenses that may not be adequately covered by the Company's insurance policies; if the Company is unable to attract and retain key personnel, it may not be able to compete effectively in the renewable energy market; there are a limited number of purchasers of utility-scale quantities of electricity; compliance with environmental laws and regulations can be expensive; corporate responsibility may adversely impose additional costs; the future impact of any resurgence of COVID-19 on the Company is unknown at this time; the Company has limited insurance coverage; the Company will be reliant on information technology systems and may be subject to damaging cyberattacks; the Company may become subject to litigation; there is no guarantee on how the Company will use its available funds; the Company will continue to sell securities for cash to fund operations, capital expansion, mergers and acquisitions that will dilute the current shareholders; and future dilution as a result of financings.
The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as may be required by law. New factors emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for the Company to predict all of them, or assess the impact of each such factor or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement. Any forward-looking statements contained in this report are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement.
Ucore Rare Metals Inc. (TSX.V: UCU) (OTCQX: UURAF)
Ucore Rare Metals Inc. (TSX.V: UCU) (OTCQX: UURAF is a critical metals technology company developing scalable rare earth element ("REE") refining infrastructure in North America. Originally founded in 2006 as a mineral exploration company, Ucore has since evolved into a processing technology innovator focused on commercializing its proprietary RapidSX™ platform under a $18.4 million contract from the U.S. Department of Defense, with additional support from Natural Resources Canada. The company's flagship deployment is the Louisiana Strategic Metals Complex ("SMC"), with additional SMCs planned to follow.
Ucore's mission is to help reestablish a domestic REE supply chain by offering competitive, modular processing solutions that reduce dependence on China. Supported by government funding, private capital, and engineering partnerships, Ucore aims to meet growing demand for rare earth oxides in electric vehicles, defense systems, and advanced energy technologies.
The company is headquartered in Halifax, Nova Scotia.
Projects & Technology
RapidSX™ Separation Technology
RapidSX™ is Ucore's proprietary rare earth separation platform, delivering three times faster processing than traditional solvent extraction (SX) methods. Its current demonstration program in Kingston, Ontario, is being conducted under contract with the U.S. Department of Defense to prove commercial readiness for processing both heavy and light REEs. The project is also supported by Natural Resources Canada.
RapidSX™ employs a column-based design that eliminates the need for powered mixer-settlers, enabling a smaller facility footprint, quicker commissioning, and lower CAPEX and OPEX. The platform is adaptable to light and heavy REE feedstocks and is structured for modular scale-up.
The 52-stage RapidSX™ Commercial Demonstration Plant in Kingston, Ontario—operated in partnership with Kingston Process Metallurgy—has logged thousands of runtime hours and is currently processing rare earth feedstock further to the company's U.S. Department of Defense contract. In January 2025, Ucore secured a $500,000 non-dilutive grant from Ontario's Critical Minerals Innovation Fund to support the advancement of the Kingston facility and, in the words of Ontario Mines Minister George Pirie, "build a secure supply chain ready to fuel the technologies of tomorrow."
Strategic Metals Complex – Louisiana
Ucore has selected an 80,800-square-foot brownfield site within the England Airpark in Alexandria, Louisiana, as the location for its first commercial rare earth refining facility. The Louisiana SMC is expected to scale from 2,000 tonnes per annum (TPA) of total rare earth oxides initially to 5,000 TPA, with potential to ultimately reach 7,500 TPA.
The facility benefits from Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ) status, reducing tariff burdens on imported inputs and enhancing logistics efficiency. In addition to these structural advantages, the state of Louisiana has outlined an incentive package valued at $15 million, including a $900,000 infrastructure grant and $360,000 in additional local support. The project is expected to create 100 family-wage jobs and has received strong support from federal and state officials.
To date, Ucore has secured $2.3 million in milestone payments under its $18.4 million OTA award from the U.S. Department of Defense. In early 2024, the company also secured C$2.16 million in private investment from Hondo Private Equity to support its commercialization efforts.
Bokan-Dotson Ridge REE Project – Alaska
Ucore maintains 100% ownership of the Bokan-Dotson Ridge heavy REE project in Southeast Alaska. A Preliminary Economic Assessment was completed in January 2013. The Alaska Industrial Development and Export Authority (AIDEA) has authorized $145 million in bond financing under SB99 (2014) to support future development.
While Bokan remains a long-term asset, Ucore continues to advance it at a measured pace, complementing its near-term focus on commercial rare earth refining and oxide production at the Louisiana SMC.
Market Opportunity
According to Grand View Research, the global rare earth elements market was estimated at $3.95 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.6% from 2025 to 2030. The market outlook remains strong, fueled by the growing demand for permanent magnets and catalysts in the automotive sector.
In March 2025, President Trump invoked the Defense Production Act to prioritize domestic critical mineral production, signaling a national mandate to reduce reliance on "hostile foreign powers' mineral production." One month later, the Chinese government enacted immediate export restrictions on seven key rare earth elements, including dysprosium and terbium, further intensifying pressure on Western nations to develop secure and independent supply chains. This underscores the strategic value of Ucore's domestic separation infrastructure.
Leadership Team
Pat Ryan, P.Eng., Chairman and CEO, is the founder of Neocon International, a leading automotive OEM supplier. He brings over 25 years of experience in global supply chain innovation and has led Ucore since 2014 in its strategic pivot toward rare earth processing.
Peter Manuel, Vice President, CFO & Corporate Secretary, has served as Ucore's financial lead for 14 years. Trained as a Chartered Accountant, with extensive experience across Canada, England, and Ireland, Mr. Manuel has advised public and private entities on strategic planning, treasury, and assurance.
Michael Schrider, MEng, P.E., Vice President & COO, is a multidisciplinary engineer with over 30 years of experience. He founded and operated engineering firms SAi and ABD and has overseen all phases of Ucore's technical development since 2016.
Geoff Atkins, Vice President of Business Development, has 30 years of mining experience and was instrumental in advancing both Lynas' Mt. Weld and Vital Metals' Nechalacho REE operations. He brings deep operational knowledge and leads feedstock strategy at Ucore.
|