Fintech
Lexaria Outlook is Promising After Jazz Acquisition of GW
New York, New York–(Newsfile Corp. – February 9, 2021) – PCG Digital – Chris Bunka is a happy man. As CEO of Lexaria Bioscience (NASDAQ: LEXX) since 2006, he’s battled to legitimize cannabinoids as a mainstream medical solution. This week, his dream is coming true. Jazz Pharmaceuticals, a major player with $2.3 billion in annual revenue, has entered the fray.
The deal went down on Wednesday, February 3rd. Jazz completed an acquisition of GW Pharmaceuticals, developers of Epidiolex, the first cannabinoid-based medical solution to be approved in the United States. GW reported $500 million in sales of the drug last year.
Epidiolex was approved in 2018 for the treatment of childhood-onset forms of epilepsy. Previous treatments for the condition had been inconsistent. Use of the drug has since been expanded to cover a wide range of seizure-related illnesses.
Portfolio managers for cannabis ETFs immediately weighed in on the deal. Dan Ahrens at AdvisorShares summed it up best. “Cannabinoid products are rapidly gaining acceptance in the public eye,” he said. “The news is a surprise, but the opportunity and price are not.”
Lexaria Stock Surges Following News Release
The entrance of mainstream pharma into the cannabis market has already created a ripple effect in the space. Lexaria (NASDAQ: LEXX) share prices rose 32% overnight, giving them a total net gain of 74.4% over the past five days, with an average daily volume of over 1mm shares traded.
Chris Bunka is not surprised. “We have an upcoming human clinical study focused on cannabinoids for hypertension and are exploring applications for central nervous system disorders,” he explained. “The hypertension market is ten times larger than GW’s seizure market. This can be massive for LEXX.”
Lexaria has already received granted patents in the EU and Australia to use its technology to treat heart disease. The company effected a reverse stock split on its common stock in January, concurrent with an $11m capital raise, earning them a timely listing on NASDAQ.
LEXX opened at $7.60 on Thursday, up from their NASDAQ entrance price of $4.05 on January 12th. It was at $4.84 on February 2nd, so the majority of that growth has come since the Jazz/GW deal was announced. It’s no surprise that company execs are smiling this morning.
Advanced Drug Delivery Technology with Lexaria DehydraTECH
With a current market cap under $50 million, on a comparative basis Lexaria appears to be undervalued. Their proprietary drug delivery technology, trademarked as DehydraTECH, is one of the main reasons why.
This disruptive technology was developed to improve the way that active pharmaceutical ingredients enter the bloodstream. It can be applied to drugs and vitamins to increase absorption rates and deliver more powerful dosages in a smaller time frame.
Lexaria is employing the use of DehydraTECH to develop cannabinoid medical solutions and safer nicotine consumption products, but it can also be applied to consumer-packaged goods and most products that come in capsule, pill, tablet, or topical application form.
The technology is available to be licensed by manufacturers. According to Lexaria’s website, there are companies with operations in over one hundred countries examining DehydraTECH for possible use to more effectively deliver their products.
Lexaria CBD DehydraTECH Hypertension Studies
Beginning with an early human clinical study in 2018, Lexaria has been researching the effects of their patented DehydraTECH oral capsule on hypertension and the resulting heart disease that inevitably follows that condition. A confirmatory second human clinical study completed design last Fall and is expected to begin the dosing phase in upcoming months.
Both studies focused on showing evidence of lowered blood pressure, higher blood flow to the brain, and faster and more effective delivery onset of CBD into the bloodstream. The 2018 version utilized a 90mg dosage of DehydraTECH processed CBD which did lower blood pressure, whereas an equal dose of generic CBD did not. The 2021 study is a human trial with a 300mg dosage.
“Positive results in the new study are expected to be of particular interest to the antihypertensive products sector, which is valued at over $22 billion,” stated CEO Chris Bunka. “According to the CDC, hypertension affects over one billion people worldwide.”
The results of the study, should they prove to be positive, could accelerate the uptrend in Lexaria share prices. According to Chris Bunka, positive results will “strengthen the company’s value proposition pursuant to its intention to seek out pharmaceutical industry partners.”
Lexaria’s Commitment to the Treatment of COVID-19
Lexaria believes that it is possible to use DehydraTECH technology to facilitate an oral application of anti-viral drugs currently being administered by injection. This group includes medications for HIV, hepatitis, influenza, and coronavirus.
They’re not referring to vaccines. Forty-eight million people were infected with COVID-19 during the pandemic of 2020. Many of them will have long-term health issues resulting from their exposure, even if symptoms are no longer visibly apparent.
According to the company’s researchers, “Vaccines help prevent the transmission of viral diseases. They don’t actually treat symptoms and are only effective 50% to 80% of the time. Anti-viral drugs will always be needed to treat people who become infected.”
This is good news for a world where the fallout from COVID-19 is still uncertain. It’s great news for investors eyeing Lexaria as a money-making opportunity in 2021. The antiviral drug market is currently estimated at $52 billion and expected to top $75 billion by 2027.
Disclaimer:
This communication was produced by PCG Digital Holdings, LLC, an affiliate of PCG Advisory Inc., (together “PCG”). PCG is an integrated investor relations, communications and strategic advisory firm. The information contained on this may be ‘Paid Advertising’ for purposes of Section 17(b) of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (together with the rules and regulations there under, the “Securities Act”). PCG may be compensated by respective clients for publicizing information relating to its client’s securities. For more information in terms of compensation received for services provided by PCG, see the pertinent advertising materials relating to the respective client. By accessing this Site and any pages thereof, you agree to be bound by the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
PCG is not a registered or licensed broker, dealer, broker-dealer, investment adviser nor investment manager, nor does PCG engage in any activities that would require such registrations. PCG does not provide investment advice, endorsement, analysis or recommendations with respect to any securities, and its services to or statements about its clients should never be construed as any endorsement of or opinion about any security of any client. No information contained in this communication constitutes an offer to sell, a solicitation of an offer to buy, or a recommendation of any security or any other similar product or service regardless of whether such security, product, or service is referenced in this communication. Further, nothing in this communication is intended to provide tax, legal, or investment advice and nothing in this communication should be construed as a recommendation to buy, sell or hold any investment or security or to engage in any investment strategy or transaction. For full disclaimers, including compensation received for professional services, please visit www.pcgadvisory.com/disclosures.
Contact:
[email protected]
As we close out 2024, the fintech industry continues to deliver headlines that underscore its dynamism and innovation. From IPO aspirations to groundbreaking regulatory milestones, today’s updates highlight the transformative power of fintech partnerships, regulatory evolution, and disruptive technologies. Here’s what you need to know.
Chime’s Quiet Step Toward Public Markets
Chime, the U.S.-based financial technology startup best known for its digital banking services, has taken a significant step by filing confidential paperwork for an initial public offering (IPO). As one of the most valuable private fintechs in the U.S., Chime’s move could potentially signal a renewed appetite for fintech IPOs in a market that has been cautious following fluctuating valuations across the tech sector.
With a valuation that reportedly exceeded $25 billion in its last funding round, Chime’s IPO could set a new benchmark for the industry. Observers note that its strong customer base and revenue growth may make it an appealing choice for investors seeking to capitalize on the digital banking boom. However, the timing and success of the IPO will depend on broader market conditions and the regulatory landscape.
Source: Bloomberg
ZBD’s Pioneering Achievement: EU MiCA License Approval
ZBD, a fintech company specializing in Bitcoin Lightning network solutions, has made history by becoming the first to secure an EU MiCA (Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation) license. This landmark approval by the Dutch regulator positions ZBD at the forefront of compliant crypto-fintech operations in Europe.
MiCA, which aims to harmonize the regulatory framework for crypto-assets across the EU, has been a focal point for industry players aiming to establish legitimacy and expand their offerings. ZBD’s achievement not only validates its operational rigor but also sets a precedent for other fintech firms navigating the evolving regulatory landscape.
Industry insiders view this as a strategic advantage for ZBD as it broadens its footprint in Europe. By leveraging its regulatory approval, the company can accelerate its product deployment and establish trust with institutional and retail users alike.
Source: Coindesk, PR Newswire
The Fintech-Credit Union Synergy: A Blueprint for Innovation
The convergence of fintechs and credit unions continues to reshape the financial services ecosystem. Collaborative initiatives, such as the one highlighted in the recent partnership between fintech innovators and credit unions, are proving to be a potent force in delivering tailored financial solutions.
This “dream team” approach allows credit unions to leverage fintech’s technological expertise while maintaining their community-focused ethos. Key areas of collaboration include digital payments, personalized financial management tools, and enhanced loan processing capabilities. These partnerships not only enhance member engagement but also enable credit unions to remain competitive in an increasingly digital-first financial environment.
Industry analysts emphasize that such collaborations underscore a broader trend of traditional financial institutions embracing fintech-driven solutions to bridge service gaps and foster innovation.
Source: PYMNTS
Tackling Student Loan Debt: A Fintech’s Mission
Student loan debt remains a pressing issue for millions of Americans, and a Rochester-based fintech aims to offer relief through its cloud-based platform. This innovative solution is designed to simplify loan management and provide borrowers with actionable insights to reduce their debt burden.
The platform’s features include repayment optimization tools, personalized financial education, and seamless integration with loan servicers. By addressing the complexities of student loan management, this fintech is empowering borrowers to make informed decisions and achieve financial stability.
As the student loan crisis continues to evolve, solutions like this highlight the critical role fintech can play in addressing systemic financial challenges while fostering financial literacy and inclusion.
Source: RBJ
Industry Implications and Takeaways
Today’s updates underscore several key themes shaping the fintech landscape:
- Regulatory Milestones: ZBD’s MiCA license approval exemplifies the importance of regulatory compliance in unlocking growth opportunities.
- Strategic Partnerships: The collaboration between fintechs and credit unions demonstrates the value of combining technological innovation with traditional financial models to drive customer-centric solutions.
- Market Opportunities: Chime’s IPO move reflects a potential revival in fintech public offerings, signaling confidence in the sector’s long-term prospects.
- Social Impact: Fintech’s ability to tackle systemic issues, such as student loan debt, showcases its role as a force for positive change.
The post Fintech Pulse: Your Daily Industry Brief (Chime, ZBD, MiCA) appeared first on News, Events, Advertising Options.
Leading global payments platform SPAYZ.io has confirmed it will be attending iFX EXPO Dubai 2025 on 14 to 16 January. Exhibiting at Stand 64 at Trade Centre Dubai, SPAYZ.io’s team of professionals will be on hand providing live demonstrations of its renowned payment services for payment providers. Attendees will also receive exclusive insight into SPAYZ.io’s plans for 2025 alongside early early access to its upcoming plans for the new year.
SPAYZ.io delivers a host of payment solutions that leverage the latest technological innovations and open access to the fastest growing emerging markets across Africa, Europe and Asia. Over the past year, there has been huge demand for its Open Banking and local payment method services, alongside bank transfers, mass payouts, online banking and e-wallets.
Yana Thakurta, Head of Business Development at SPAYZ.io commented: “We look forward to once again participating at iFX Dubai to expand our network of partners and clients. It’s a fantastic way to kick off the year, connecting with thousands of industry leaders from FOREX platforms to trading companies, and everything in between.
“Our key goal for iFX Dubai EXPO 2025 is to expand our portfolio of solutions and geographies. We’re using this as an opportunity to partner with like-minded entities who share our ambition to provide payment solutions that are truly global.”
Come meet SPAYZ.io’s team at the Trade Centre Dubai at Stand 64. You can also book a meeting slot with a member of a team.
The post SPAYZ.io prepares for iFX EXPO Dubai 2025 appeared first on News, Events, Advertising Options.
Airtm, the most connected digital dollar account in the world, is proud to announce the addition of two distinguished industry leaders to its Board of Directors: Rafael de la Vega, Global SVP of Partnerships at Auctane, and Shivani Siroya, CEO & Founder of Tala. These appointments reflect Airtm’s commitment to innovation and financial inclusion as the company enters its next phase of growth.
“We are thrilled to welcome Rafael and Shivani to Airtm’s Board of Directors,” said Ruben Galindo Steckel, Co-founder and CEO of Airtm. “Their unique perspectives and proven track records will be invaluable as we continue scaling our platform to empower individuals and businesses in emerging markets. Together, we’ll push the boundaries of financial inclusion and innovation to create a more connected and equitable global economy. Rafael and Shivani bring a wealth of experience and strategic insight that will strengthen Airtm’s mission to connect emerging economies with the global market.”
Rafael de la Vega, a seasoned leader in fintech global partnerships and technology innovation, is currently the Global SVP of Partnerships at Auctane. With a proven track record of delivering scalable, impactful solutions at the intersection of fintech, innovation, and commerce, Rafael’s expertise will be pivotal as Airtm continues to grow. “Airtm has built a platform that breaks down barriers and opens up opportunities for people in emerging economies to connect to global markets. I am excited to contribute to its growth and help further its mission of fostering financial inclusion on a global scale,” said Rafael.
Shivani Siroya, CEO and Founder of Tala, is a pioneer in financial technology, renowned for empowering underserved communities through access to credit and essential financial tools. Her leadership in leveraging data-driven innovation aligns seamlessly with Airtm’s vision of creating more equitable financial opportunities. “Empowering underserved communities has always been at the core of my work, and Airtm’s mission resonates deeply with me. I’m thrilled to join the Board and work alongside such a dynamic team to expand access to financial tools that truly make a difference in people’s lives,” said Shivani.
The post Airtm Enhances Its Board of Directors with Two Strategic Appointments appeared first on News, Events, Advertising Options.
-
Fintech5 days agoFintech Pulse: Your Daily Industry Brief (Chime, ZBD, MiCA)
-
Fintech PR5 days agoAccording to Tickmill survey, 3 in 10 Britons in economic difficulty: Purchasing power down 41% since 2004
-
Fintech6 days agoSPAYZ.io prepares for iFX EXPO Dubai 2025
-
Fintech6 days agoAirtm Enhances Its Board of Directors with Two Strategic Appointments
-
Fintech PR4 days agoPresident Emmerson Mnangagwa met this week with Zambia’s former Vice President and Special Envoy Enoch Kavindele to discuss SADC’s candidate for the AfDB
-
Fintech PR2 days agoGCL Energy Technology and Ant Digital Technologies Launch First Blockchain-Based RWA Project in Photovoltaic Industry
-
Fintech PR5 days agoStay Cyber Safe This Holiday Season: Heimdal’s Checklist for Business Security
-
Fintech PR5 days agoMedicilon Appoints Dr. Lilly Xu as Chief Technology Officer