ABcann Global (TSX.V: ABCN) (OTCQB: (ABCCF)
ABcann Medicinals, Inc. is a globally licensed, cost efficient producer of premium quality organic standardized medicinal cannabis. One of the earliest licensed Canadian medical marijuana producers under Canada's federally-controlled Access to Cannabis for Medical Purposes Regulations (ACMPR), ABcann has five years of operating experience in the burgeoning medical marijuana space. The company currently owns and operates a fully functioning 14,500 square foot facility in Napanee, Ontario. Additionally, ABcann owns 65 acres of real estate with proper zoning and existing infrastructure in place to support the construction of another production facility of up to one million square feet.
In a November 2016 report, market research firm Canaccord Genuity Group forecasted that the medical marijuana market in Canada could see sales in excess of $8 billion by 2024, creating a sizable opportunity for the country's licensed producers (LPs). The research firm also noted that the "rigorous process of becoming a licensed producer of cannabis in Canada imposes significant barriers to entry and there will be a shortfall of supply in a legalized market in the short-term." This market barrier serves as a strategic advantage for ABcann as it prepares for its highly-anticipated IPO, which is currently scheduled for April 2017.
Canaccord's synopsis of the Canadian cannabis industry is supported by recent market activity, as companies sporting one of the illustrious Canadian government licenses for medicinal production have recorded strong growth following IPO. Canopy Growth (OTC: TWMJ), one of the largest fully-licensed Canadian marijuana growers, saw share prices skyrocket by more than 700 percent in the months following its initial offering. Aphria Inc. (OTC: APHQF), another licensed grower, climbed by more than 900 percent following its IPO. Other companies that have recorded huge growth since going public include Aurora Cannabis (OTC: ACBFF), climbing nearly 900 percent, and SupremePharma (OTC: SPRWF), which soared more than 1,300 percent.
With these market trends in mind, ABcann's impending IPO is one that prospective investors in the marijuana sector will want to explore. Recalls from some of the biggest players in the Canadian cannabis industry have highlighted the considerable learning curve that LPs face in today's market, which makes ABcann's proven track record in the market all the more noteworthy. The company has built a reputation over the years for its best-in-class standardized approach to growing cannabis, including the thoughtful omission of pesticides and a computer monitored growing technique that allows ABcann to minimize the risks of variance in its yields and ensure the creation of consistently high-quality products.
This technique, which the company calls the ABcann Advantage, has helped it record a customer retention rate of 94.7 percent alongside 30 percent month-over-month customer growth. When combined with ABcann's current yield rate, which it has measured at roughly 100 percent greater than the industry average, the company has constructed a strong foundation upon which to build a sizable presence in the global cannabis industry. This global growth potential is illustrated by ABcann's partnership with Israel's Syqe Medical, producer of the world's first selective-dose pharmaceutical grade medicinal plant inhaler. After visiting the company's production facility, Perry Davidson, founder of Syqe Medical, noted that ABcann's production technologies put it "in a class with the best in the world" in its ability to produce standardized pharmaceutical grade cannabis.
ABcann's entry into the public sector is being guided by a seasoned management team, board of directors and advisory board that feature well over a century of combined industry experience. Ken Clement, the company' founder and executive chairman, has been the key component and driving force behind ABcann's development since its inception. His vision of standardized production and dosage sets ABcann apart in the medical cannabis sector. Clement is joined on the company's management team by CEO Aaron Keay. Keay brings more than a decade of capital markets experience to ABcann, having played a role in raising approximately $250 million for public and private market issuers.
Notably, ABcann also has access to the 'Father of Cannabis Research', Raphael Mechoulam, PhD, through its board of advisors. An organic chemist and professor of medicinal chemistry at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Mechoulam was the first scientist to isolate both cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), and he has received more than 25 prestigious academic awards, including the Rothschild Prize in Chemical Sciences and Physical Sciences in 2012.
With more than 65 acres of growth capacity, a healthy cash balance to fund upcoming construction efforts, steady sales growth, industry-leading yield rates and an established operations team in place, ABcann is well-positioned to compete in the rapidly-expanding Canadian medicinal cannabis industry. These factors, along with the company's ongoing global expansion into the European, Australian and Israeli markets, show why ABcann Medicinals' upcoming public offering fits the bill as "Canada's Next Medical Marijuana IPO."
AnalytixInsight Inc. (TSX.V: ALY)
(OTCQB: ATIXF)
AnalytixInsight (TSX.V: ALY) (OTCQB: ATIXF) is an artificial intelligence (AI) company that transforms data into knowledge. The company has developed a proprietary, machine-learning technology that algorithmically analyzes big data and distills it into actionable insights. AnalytixInsight has strategic initiatives in fintech, blockchain and workflow analytics, and its technology is scalable and extendable to virtually any data-driven industry such as sports, communications, healthcare, insurance or government.
The company's flagship product – CapitalCube.com – is a financial portal providing comprehensive company analysis including on-demand fundamental research, portfolio evaluation and screening tools on over 50,000 global equities and North American ETFs. CapitalCube's online portal is designed to empower investment ideas by providing in-depth analysis, peer-to-peer performance evaluations, accounting and earnings reports, dividend strength and AI-supported information about likely corporate actions such as dividend changes, share buybacks and acquisitions. AnalytixInsight provides a robust technology that is frequently rebalanced to maintain a desired risk profile, matching risk to ideal ETF exposure, with regular compliance reporting.
CapitalCube's freemium pricing model allows free access to basic financial information, with additional in-depth analysis and predictive analytics provided at a rate of $25 per month, and customized peer analysis for $300 per month. CapitalCube publishes 3,000 articles daily and has multi-language capabilities. Thomson Reuters and Africa Investor have recently been added to the growing network of content partnerships that already includes Euronext NV, Yahoo Finance and The Wall Street Journal.
Euclides Technologies is a subsidiary company focused on Field Service Management software solutions, led by a team with decades of experience in developing and implementing workforce management solutions for large global corporations. With worldwide customers representing over 100,000 field service personnel across multiple industries, Euclides Technologies has a deep understanding of the increasing amount of data generated within the industry, as well as the analytics solution offerings to transform that data into knowledge.
MarketWall is a Fintech subsidiary that develops integrated software solutions as part of an ecosystem of smart devices that includes PCs, tablets, smart phones, wearable mobile devices and Smart TV. AnalytixInsight Inc. has joint ownership in MarketWall together with Intesa Sanpaolo, Italy's largest retail bank which has over 4,000 branches and a market capitalization of $40 billion Euros. MarketWall is expected to deploy its real-time stock trading and mobile banking app to Intesa Sanpaolo's 12.6 million customers in six European countries during 2018. The mobile stock trading application will directly interface with Intesa Sanpaolo's established MarketHub trading platform. As a Samsung Global Partner, the MarketWall app is preloaded in mobile devices in certain areas in Europe.
AnalytixInsight is currently evaluating and pursuing Blockchain initiatives which are contiguous with its artificial intelligence platform, to use a distributed ledger technology to reduce transaction costs and settlement times for its users, partners, and subsidiaries. The Company believes these initiatives will enhance current revenues being received from existing multi-year agreements with its partners.
EVIO, Inc. (EVIO)
EVIO, Inc., via the EVIO Labs division, is the nation's leading provider of accredited analytical testing, scientific research and advisory services to the regulated cannabis industry. EVIO Labs provides state-mandated ancillary services that are required to ensure the safety and quality of the nation's cannabis supply. EVIO Labs has performed over 50,000 tests during the past two years and grown from one laboratory in Oregon to nine labs spanning California, Oregon, Colorado, Massachusetts and Florida.
EVIO Labs is driving the cannabis testing industry by providing clients nationwide with consistent high-quality cannabis analytical services backed by quality control assurances. The company also provides advisory services that help cannabis producers and retailers enhance production processes, achieve regulatory compliance and meet quality goals.
EVIO Labs is on track to open 18 laboratories by the end of 2018 at locations around the United States. The Oregon-based company provides analytical services that include testing cannabis and industrial hemp flower, extracts and infused products. The labs specialize in performing the following tests:
- Cannabinoid analysis, which properly characterizes the many primary cannabinoids found in cannabis including THC, CBD, and several other cannabinoids.
- Terpene analysis, which identifies the aromatic compounds of the plant (terpene), which can help identify the therapeutic potential of a cannabis flower or extract.
- Moisture content and water activity, which measure the moisture levels of dried cannabis and are indicators of microbiological growth potential.
- Pesticide residue analysis of over 100 different pesticides, herbicides, fungicides, growth regulators and other agrochemicals that may be present on cannabis.
- Detection of harmful residual solvents left behind in the cannabis extract production process.
- Microbial testing screen for bacterial and fungal contamination in cannabis and cannabis-infused products.
- Detection of heavy metals including lead, cadmium, mercury, and arsenic.
EVIO Labs is rapidly becoming the nation's leading cannabis biotechnology company. Led by a management team with extensive experience in designing and rolling out successful business ventures, product research and development, regulatory and compliance protocols, medical cannabis cultivation, production and analytical chemistry techniques, EVIO Labs is prepared to take advantage of today's fastest growing industry.
FANDOM SPORTS Media Corp. (CSE: FDM) (OTC: FDMSF) (FRANKFURT: TQ42)
FANDOM SPORTS Media Corp. (CSE: FDM) (OTC: FDMSF) (FRANKFURT: TQ42) taps into the primal, unfiltered passion of sports fans from around the world by providing an uncensored social media platform delivered through the FANDOM SPORTS mobile app. As an aggregator, curator and instigator of both company-created and user-generated content, the FANDOM SPORTS app is designed to entertain sports enthusiasts with real-time, interactive content on a mobile only app that offers bragging rights and real-life rewards. True sports addicts will appreciate an app that allows fans to pick a fight or create their own FanFights and rule over others as they trash talk their way to victory. The FANDOM SPORTS proprietary data centric "argument engine" measures and scores opinionated dialogue, as well as establishes consensus, giving fans and users the ability to dive deeper into one-of-a-kind cultural moments, cheer on favorite sports teams and slam dunk some sweet rewards.
Building on the company's tag line – "Pick a Fight" – the FANDOM SPORTS app provides an always fresh, authentic rush of deeper-than-surface interactive content that resonates with the targeted age demographic of 18-34. Intense sports fans aren't afraid of stepping up to the plate to engage other users by unleashing their opinions within the app's structured debate resolution tool coined "FanFights." Sports-loving fans can explore, gloat, vote, invite friends, create provocative FanFight topics and play to win while inside the FANDOM SPORTS app, which is currently available in the Apple App store and coming to the Google Play store imminently. The company's self-learning algorithm predicts and collects user preferences while building relevant personalized FanFight channels, bringing the concept of competitive, in-your-face conversation to a whole new level of sports entertainment.
The FANDOM SPORTS app is free to play (F2P) with in-app purchase and subscription capabilities. The gaming aspect of the ecosystem is built on behavioral economics and delivers multiple revenue streams by maximizing average revenue per daily active user (ARPDAU) and user-generated content (UGC), with select placement of high-impact video and moment-based marketing as part of the brand-sponsored FanFights and in-app offers. The global platform enables applications (either FANDOM SPORTS created or 3rd party apps) to be operated in partnership with leading sports themed brands, leagues, and service providing companies within three verticals – live action, eSports, & fantasy – from around the world by supplying "interactive sports entertainment" to fans. The FANDOM SPORTS platform creates a bullet-proof snapshot of the app's fan base through a Blockchain supported "PlayerCard" in tandem with the "Engagement Score", which doubles as an invaluable acquisition and retention tool for its business operators. FANDOM SPORTS hosted transactions are placed on the distributed ledger, making them immutable and public to verified users interacting within the business ecosystem. Tracking this digital footprint provides extremely valuable metadata generated by users' very dynamic behavior and sports passion.
FANDOM SPORTS' Brand and Sponsorship partners are harnessing the affluent sports fans age 18-34 with integrated marketing content and service experience. The moments-based marketing integration will translate through FanCoin redemption, in exchange for items provided by programs established by FANDOM SPORTS and its clients. These programs are a key part of the business model and covers, as an example, the following partners; Sports Leagues, TelCo's service offerings, and Content owners (i.e. FANDOM SPORTS provides new paying customers to the owners of pay-per-view platforms).
"Pick A Fight. Talk Trash. Get Rewarded."
FANDOM SPORTS Media is an entertainment company that aggregates, curates and produces unique fan-focused content.
The FANDOM SPORTS App is the Company's core product, which is the ultimate destination for unfiltered raw sports talk. The app allows passionate sports fans to unleash their primal sports passions, pick fights and earn rewards.
So download the app and bring your crew. Talking trash is better with friends. The more you invite, the more FanCoins you earn.
You may also visit the Company's website at www.fandomsportsmedia.com or contact them directly at info@fandomsportsmedia.com.
DISCLAIMER:
The CSE has not reviewed and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy and accuracy of this information. This news release may contain forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements do not guarantee future events or performance and should not be relied upon. Actual outcomes may differ materially due to any number of factors and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the Company's control. Some of these risks and uncertainties may be described in the Company's corporate filings (posted at www.sedar.com).
The Company has no intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements due to new information or events.
Hiku Brands Co. Ltd. (CSE: HIKU) (OTC: DJACF)
Headquartered in British Columbia's picturesque Okanagan Valley, Hiku Brands Co. Ltd. (CSE: HIKU) (OTC: DJACF) is a premium cannabis lifestyle brand growing high-quality handcrafted cannabis flower. Hiku's wholly owned subsidiary is a licensed producer of cannabis under the ACMPR that has requested its Pre-Sales License Inspection, the last step prior to receiving a license to sell cannabis under the ACMPR. Hiku's Dominion Facility is a state-of-the-art ACMPR licensed production facility capable of producing approximately 660 kg year of dried cannabis flower. Hiku's second facility, a 22,580 sq ft warehouse, "the FUTURE LAB", is targeting its Phase 1 completion by Q2 2018 and once the facility is fully built-out utilizing an industry leading multi-tier system powered by LED lighting provided by Fluence BioEngineering, Hiku's annual production capacity is expected to be in excess of 5,000 kgs. Hiku was founded by the proven entrepreneurial team that started SAXX Underwear®.
On December 21, 2017, Hiku and TS Brandco Holdings Inc. ("Tokyo Smoke") announced that they have entered into a binding Letter of Intent ("LOI") to merger the two companies and create a uniquely positioned cannabis company combining a best-in-class craft cannabis producer with an award-winning lifestyle brand and retail-focused cannabis company. It is anticipated that the combined company resulting from the merger will use the name "Hiku Brands Company Ltd." ("Hiku") to refer to the brand house containing premium cannabis brands DOJA, Tokyo Smoke, and Van der Pop.
Hiku recently closed on a $10 million strategic equity investment from Aphria Inc. ("Aphria") (TSX:APH and US OTC: APHQF) to expand their product offering ahead of the recreational market.
Upon completion of the merger, Hiku will have a robust cash position of approximately $31 million, which it plans to invest in expanding its cannabis production capacity, growing its retail footprint, and adding select brands to its portfolio through highly strategic and complementary acquisitions.
About Tokyo Smoke
Founded in 2015 by Alan and Lorne Gertner, Tokyo Smoke is an award-winning cannabis lifestyle brand that brings sophistication and design to the fast-growing industry. With immersive experiences and design-first, non-dispensary retail spaces selling coffee, cannabis accessories and design products, the brand has six locations in Canada, with plans to expand nationwide. Recently named "Brand of the Year" at the Canadian Cannabis Awards, Tokyo Smoke has showcased excellence in brand storytelling, and has developed an international reputation as the go-to destination for engaging content offerings within the industry. With the acquisition of fellow designer cannabis brand Van der Pop, and by partnering with Aphria Inc. (TSX: APH and US OTC: APHQF) and WeedMD (TSXV: WMD), Tokyo Smoke continues to be the leading Canadian brand in the cannabis space.
About Hiku
Hiku is focused on handcrafted cannabis production, immersive retail experiences, and building a portfolio of iconic, engaging cannabis lifestyle brands. Hiku is differentiated as the only Canadian craft cannabis producer with a significant national retail footprint and a growing brand house including premium cannabis lifestyle brands DOJA, Tokyo Smoke, and Van der Pop.
Hiku's wholly owned subsidiary, DOJA Cannabis Ltd., is a federally licensed producer pursuant to the ACMPR, owning two production facilities in the heart of British Columbia's Okanagan Valley. The company operates a network of retail stores selling coffee, clothing and curated accessories, across British Columbia, Alberta and Ontario.
Lexaria Bioscience Corp. (CSE: LXX) (OTCQX: LXRP)
Lexaria Bioscience Corp. (CSE: LXX) (OTCQX: LXRP) has developed and out-licenses its proprietary technology for improved taste, rapidity, and delivery of bioactive compounds, including cannabinoids. Though boasting a wide range of health benefits, cannabinoids are traditionally poorly absorbed by the body's gastrointestinal tract. To achieve higher effectiveness, consumers usually default to smoking. Lexaria provides a superior administration method by delivering hemp oil ingredients – or through locally licensed partners, cannabis oil ingredients – through a patented process within food products.
The key differentiator between Lexaria's products and others on the market is the company's disruptive technology proven to enhance the absorption of orally ingested cannabinoids while improving the "unusual" taste of cannabinoids and allowing for lower overall dosing with higher efficacy. Lexaria is primarily a B2B enterprise, and is in licensing discussions or has existing agreements with companies in Canada, the largest-market states in the USA, and internationally. Lexaria has also developed its own brands partly for demonstration purposes, utilizing its patented technology to infuse hemp oil ingredients within lipids in popular foods. These brands include ViPova™, Lexaria Energy Foods, and TurboCBD™.
In 2015, Lexaria commissioned an independent, third-party lab to test its technology under carefully monitored in vitro conditions. Results showed that the company's technological process and lipid formulation both improve intestinal absorption as much as 500%. Additional follow-up studies in human volunteers suggested that Lexaria's processed, lipid-infused tea may be more effective in an actual gastrointestinal system than in an in vitro simulation with results indicating as much as a 1,000% increase in overall absorption.
Lexaria also has an R&D partnership with the Canadian government's National Research Council. That R&D is expected to characterize molecular bond formation theorized to occur with Lexaria's unique technology between the lipid delivery agents and the bioactive substances it processes and combines. Results from this R&D are expected to support accelerating B2B relationships – not just in the cannabis industry, but also to support new B2B business relationships in the fields of vitamins, NSAIDs, and nicotine delivery. All of these sectors expected to offer additional future growth potential.
Aside from testing, a critical component of Lexaria Bioscience's business model is a strong intellectual property portfolio that utilizes the most commonly used food processing techniques. As of 2017, the company's patent portfolio includes 19 patent applications filed and pending in more than 40 countries around the world. The most recent patent applications expand Lexaria's lipophilic food and beverage composition claims to include the processing of cannabinoids, vitamins, NSAIDs and nicotine in many of the world's most commonly used food processing ingredients. Lexaria is expecting additional new patent awards both in the USA and internationally in 2017 and 2018.
Royalties play a vital role in Lexaria's revenue-generating business model. The company out-licenses its technology (royalty) to third party partners, and has several deals signed and/or pending. The company's growth initiatives are guided by a management team headed by CEO Chris Bunka, a serial entrepreneur who has raised more than $50 million in working capital for the companies he has led over the course of his career. He is supported by a team of professionals with extensive experience in pharmaceutical and bioscience sectors, invention, toxicology, consumer goods, and other relevant skillsets.
Net Element (NASDAQ: NETE)
Net Element, Inc. (NASDAQ: NETE) is a global financial technology and value-added solutions group that supports electronic payments acceptance in an omni-channel environment spanning across point-of-sale, e-commerce, and mobile devices. Net Element operates a payments-as-a-service transactional model and value-added services platform for small to medium enterprises in the U.S. and selected emerging markets. Internationally, Net Element's strategy is to leverage its omni-channel platform to deliver flexible offerings to emerging markets with diverse banking, regulatory and demographic conditions. Net Element was ranked as one of the fastest growing companies in North America on Deloitte's 2017 Technology Fast 500 ™ and South Florida Business Journal's 2016 fastest growing technology companies.
Net Element believes the future of global commerce is being revolutionized as consumers quickly migrate toward omni-channel shopping utilizing mobile devices, desktop, and online services. Net Element's all-in-one payment solutions support and unify a whole range of applications through a single, robust platform, allowing global onboarding and support for multiple payment methods.
In a partnership with Bunker Capital, Net Element has also launched a new blockchain-focused business unit that will develop and deploy blockchain technology-based solutions. Net Element expects the new division to create a decentralized crypto-based ecosystem that will act as a framework for an unlimited number of value-added services, connecting merchants and consumers in a seamless, economically efficient transaction. This new business unit intends to also identify and invest in unique projects that decentralize and disrupt the payment processing industry by combining blockchain technology and real-world applications with talented development teams, strong fundamentals and addressable markets large in size.
"We believe that we're at the dawn of a new evolution where additional digital payment methods are being introduced," Net Element CEO Oleg Firer, says. "Introduction of our division focused on blockchain as part of the NASDAQ-listed entity will add transparency and compliance assurance to our investors as well as provide access to deploy value-added services to over 20 million electronic commerce clients that are currently part of Net Element's growing network."
Net Element clients are treated to customized solutions that provide the flexibility needed to keep up with customers. Among the services offered are mobile payment apps that accept payments anywhere, anytime; cloud-based solutions built to increase productivity and enhance revenue for clients and partners; marketing solutions that turn lookers into buyers; and business analytics that make it easy for clients to monitor business metrics, engage with customers and compare the competition. Its multi-channel platform combines e-commerce, offline, point-of-sale, comprehensive back office tools, mobile point-of-sale, credit scoring and customer interaction in one powerful platform-as-a-service technology.
Net Element owns and operates a global mobile payments and transactional processing provider, TOT Group, Inc., with the following subsidiaries:
- Unified Payments – An award-winning, customized mobile billing and payments solution, recognized by Inc. Magazine as the No. 1 Fastest Growing Company in America in 2012.
- Digital Provider – A leading provider of SMS messaging and mobile billing solutions.
- Aptito – A next-generation, all-in-one, cloud-based restaurant management and point-of-sale payments platform using wireless technology.
- Payonline – A fully integrated, processor agnostic electronic commerce platform.
Net Element is ranked No. 418 on Deloitte's 2017 Technology Fast 500™ list of North America's 500 fastest growing technology, media, telecommunications, life sciences and energy tech companies. Net Element grew 190 percent. The company's chief executive officer, Oleg Firer, credits the company's progression to organic growth in its North America Transactions Segment, specifically the success of its Unified Payments brand, which focuses on value-added payment acceptance solutions for small to medium enterprises in the United States.
"The Deloitte 2017 North America Technology Fast 500 winners underscore the impact of technological innovation and world class customer service in driving growth, in a fiercely competitive environment," said Sandra Shirai, vice chairman, Deloitte Consulting LLP and U.S. technology, media and telecommunications leader. "These companies are on the cutting edge, and are transforming the way we do business."
Net Element's suite of application performing interfaces (APIs) and connectors power commerce for businesses of all sizes through multi-channel platforms, all-in-one digital solutions, and end-to-end encryption of cardholder data utilizing tamper resistant hardware that ensures integrity and simplifies security.
Net Element's corporate team is led by director and CEO Oleg Firer, who is responsible for the overall vision, strategy and execution of the company's mission of powering global commerce. He is joined by CFO Jonathan New, CPA, and Steven Wolberg, who is the company's chief legal officer and secretary. Each corporate officer brings a unique blend of leadership, vision, experience and creative energy to the company.
From mobile payments and value-added transactional innovations such as Digital Provider and Aptito to e-commerce and retail payment transaction processing brands like Payonline and United Payments, Net Element is transforming the online and mobile experience.
ORHub, Inc. (ORHB)
ORHub, Inc. (ORHB) is a cloud-based software platform designed to transform the business of surgery into a value-based model. The platform empowers care providers at every stage of the surgical process to collaborate, organize, deliver, measure, and reimburse in one intuitive, easy-to-use program. This significantly decreases cost and improves outcomes by eliminating inefficiencies, duplications of effort, and errors and omissions that result from siloed processes in outdated software and poor handoffs from one part of the care process to another.
The need for ORHub is clear. Health care costs are out of control at more than 17% of US GDP, which equates to over $3 trillion per year. With costs rising every year due to an aging population and increasingly expensive treatments, providers are under severe pressure to become more efficient and reduce costs. This is happening because payors are aggressively reducing reimbursements and finally moving away from fee-for-service and toward a performance-based reimbursement system referred to as value-based health care.
Accurately measuring the cost of treating a condition and relating that cost to the patient's outcome is at the heart of value-based health care. Institutions that have adopted this model have reaped savings of 20-40% on their overall cost of care. Unfortunately, today's siloed IT systems are fundamentally at odds with this process. Legacy health care solutions come from a fee-for-service world and have reinforced the problem and produced a system with erratic quality and unsustainable costs. Most health care applications today are incremental improvements on these existing systems or are simple digital implementations of antiquated pen-and-paper processes.
Providers wanting to practice value-based health care need value-based software. ORHub creates a value-based solution that will revolutionize surgical care delivery by tracking the cost of treating a condition from diagnosis to discharge, and tracking outcomes that resulted from that treatment.
In an industry where major IT rollouts traditionally cost millions of dollars and take an average of eighteen months, pilot installations of ORHub have been completed in less than a month. By avoiding integration with legacy systems completely through a radically comprehensive and collaborative approach, providers see results right away. This approach produces real-time metrics in a uniform manner at any institution, which makes it ideal for large providers looking to make improvements across the board at multiple facilities.
ORHub started as a pilot program developed in cooperation with a major Southern California hospital. It has since expanded operations into a second facility at the number two non-profit hospital system in the US. Three additional pilot programs are scheduled prior to a national launch.
The company is also a showcase member of the startup program at Microsoft, which has been a key partner by providing financial assistance, strategy, introductions to influencers and mentors, and access to its sales organization who see ORHub as an exciting partner to expand the utilization of Microsoft Surface devices and Azure Cloud. Microsoft is funding a major case study in partnership with Intel about the impact of ORHub on participating institutions to be concluded sometime in Q2 2017.
ORHub's leadership team is helmed by Colt Melby, who was appointed CEO in 2016 and has been crucial to developing and executing the company's business strategy. Mr. Melby's extensive business experience includes the NASDAQ uplisting of Smith and Wesson (now American Outdoor Brands), CUI Global Inc., and Quest Resource Holdings Corp. His wealth of information and relationships have been vital in helping the company go from concept to production in institutional medicine in less than a year.
Delivering surgical care to a single patient is a complex process that may take half a dozen companies and more than a dozen departments cooperating inside and outside the care facility. ORHub simplifies and streamlines this process by enabling vendors, providers, and surgeons to collaborate on providing care.
Pressure BioSciences Inc. (PBIO)
Pressure BioSciences, Inc. (OTCQB: PBIO) develops, markets and sells proprietary laboratory instrumentation and associated consumables to the life sciences sample preparation market. Sample preparation refers to the wide range of activities that precede most forms of scientific analysis. It is often complex and time-consuming, yet a critical part of scientific research. The market for sample preparation products is currently estimated at $6 billion worldwide.
The Company's product line can be used to exquisitely control the sample preparation process. It is based on a patented, enabling technology platform called pressure cycling technology ("PCT"). PCT uses alternating cycles of hydrostatic pressure between ambient (14.5 psi) and ultra-high levels (up to 100,000 psi) to safely and reproducibly control critical biological processes, such as the lysis (breakage) of cells, the digestion of proteins, and the inactivation of pathogens.
Pressure BioSciences' product line is led by its newly released, next-generation Barocycler 2320EXTREME instrument. Named a finalist in the prestigious 2017 R&D Awards (also known as the "Oscars of Innovation"), the Barocycler 2320EXT is already being touted by some key opinion leaders as an essential element of the $1.8 billion U.S. "Cancer Moonshot" program. For example, Professor Phil Robinson, Co-head of the cancer research center of the Children's Medical Research Institute (Sydney, Australia), said in a recent interview: "We are collecting the whole proteome on 70,000 tumor samples from all classes where complete clinical outcome is known. Due to its unique capabilities, the Barocycler 2320EXT has become a critical part of our program. It is the primary enabler of the high-throughput component of the project. Without this step, our project simply could not be done. In fact, the Barocycler 2320EXT works so well we have just purchased two more."
Momentum is building when it comes to the potential for using the Company's unique PCT technology platform. Leading scientists are intrigued by Pressure BioSciences' approach, which among other attributes, revolutionizes the process of rupturing cells (lysis) for further study, yielding superior biomolecules for investigation. The Company's technology transcends current methods of breaking open cells, which use chemicals, blades, metal beads, or other damaging and altering methods that can ultimately adversely affect the result for researchers. Pressure BioSciences' PCT technology utilizes customized, controlled hydrostatic (water) pressure to rupture cells in a chamber, enabling exquisitely customized levels of pressure to optimally break open different types of cells at prescribed pressure levels—something never before accomplished in a commercial setting. Using this pioneering method, the result is a truer, more legitimate sample, which boosts the efficacy of research and the quality of results. The potential impact of this technology on scientific advancement is enormous, enabling research scientists to begin their studies with biological samples of unprecedented integrity, with the potential to improve research outcomes at the earliest, most critical step. PCT can additionally inactivate pathogens (e.g., viruses, bacteria) using hydrostatic pressure, making the samples safer to study—another innovation with astronomical potential for application in a variety of markets.
The Company's high-pressure instruments for research purposes are marketed throughout the United States, Europe, China and Japan. To date, Pressure BioSciences has installed nearly 300 PCT Systems in over 165 leading academic, government, biotech and pharma laboratories around the world. Its primary applications are in biomarker discovery, forensics, agriculture and pathology. Over 100 scientific papers have been published on the advantages of the PCT platform, which is also being used in the specialized fields of drug discovery and design, bio-therapeutics characterization, soil and plant biology, vaccine development and histology.
Impressive as their biotech business is, there is more to the PBI story. Pressure BioSciences recently received two patents in China for its novel Ultra Shear Technology (UST), a process that has potential in a wide range of industrial applications, including extending the shelf life of some food products and making two insoluble liquids (like oil in water) soluble. Patents have also been filed in many other countries worldwide. UST is a novel technique based on the use of intense shear forces generated from ultra-high-pressure valve discharge.
This important technology has the potential to play a significant role in a number of commercially important areas through its ability to create high-quality, stable nanoemulsions. Scientific studies indicate that improved absorption, higher bioavailability, greater stability, lower surfactant levels and other advantages can be achieved with nanoemulsions – all hugely important factors in the fields of nutraceuticals, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and in various medical products. There is an enormous opportunity in the cannabis market, since the technology can potentially reduce oil droplets containing cannabidiol (CBD) to nanoparticles, after which they can be safely suspended in a stable water solution—something many companies have endeavored to achieve without success. Researchers looking for a way to increase the bioavailability of cannabinoids in the body will find this technology a game changer.
The Company's UST technology also has possibilities in the production of clean label foods, which are currently processed using several innovative methods, including high-pressure treatments (such as Starbucks' Evolution line of juices). In 2015, the worldwide market for high-pressure processed (HPP) food was estimated at U.S. $10 billion. UST uses ultra-high pressures and certain valves to generate intense shear forces under controlled temperature conditions to produce nanoemulsions, and which also significantly reduces food-borne pathogens. Pressure BioSciences' initial focus with this technology will be to evaluate UST for the production of high-quality dairy products and beverages.
Victory Square Technologies Inc. (CSE: VST) (OTC: VSQTF) (FRANKFURT: 6F6) (WKN: A2AKL8)
Victory Square Technologies Inc. (CSE: VST) (OTC: VSQTF) (FRANKFURT: 6F6) (WKN: A2AKL8) is a venture builder that creates, funds and empowers entrepreneurs working in the fields of blockchain technology, virtual reality, artificial intelligence, personalized health, gaming and film. As a technology incubator, Victory Square invests in game-changing entrepreneurs who are provided access to education programs, global mentorship networks, distribution partners, creative workspaces, resources, and other forms of operational support to help them scale internationally.
Victory Square has made multiple early partnerships and investments in the blockchain space. Approximately three years ago the company incubated and invested in BTL Group, which is now a $150 million dollar TSX-listed company offering blockchain solutions across multiple industries with particular focus on the finance, energy and gaming sectors. BTL's showcase product – Interbit – is a blockchain platform that facilitates the rapid development of business applications that dramatically improve efficiency. Some of the world's largest institutions are using Interbit to explore new opportunities on private blockchains.
A new social sports betting platform to be developed by Victory Square's wholly owned subsidiary, FansUnite Media Inc. As a social sports data platform, FansUnite relies on robust data to allow members of its community to engage with like-minded individuals by collaborating, discussing, and predicting the winners of sporting events with a free virtual currency. The integration of blockchain technology into FansUnite's social sports data platform could also lead to blockchain initiatives developed by other divisions and subsidiaries of Victory Square.
Integral to the FansUnite platform is the introduction of FAN Tokens, an in-game currency purchased with the cryptocurrency Ethereum that token holders can use to place wagers. FansUnite members will be able to earn FAN Tokens through participation in any number of networking effects identified in the company's Bounty program.
"Blockchain technology and the inherent security it provides will enable us to push every envelope we can to build the most dynamic and responsive social sports betting platform," said Darius Eghdami, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of FansUnite. "The opportunity to secure data through Blockchain certainly appeals to the accountant in me and we are confident it will become the gold standard among sports betting sites around the world."
Company subsidiary Victory Square Health Inc., which serves as the venture arm dedicated to companies focused on the development of solutions in personalized health technologies, has also invested in Personalized Biomarkers Inc. (PBI). PBI develops test kits that reliably predict the expected response to a number of therapies prior to prescription, with an initial focus on diabetes. Within this field, five potential biomarkers have been identified, allowing PBI to enter a $4 billion market opportunity.
"We are excited for the opportunity to partner with Personalized Biomarkers as they have correctly identified a massive market opportunity, and have formed an exceptional team of industry leaders," said Shafin Diamond Tejani, Chief Executive Officer of Victory Square. "This is another investment that is fully aligned with our newly created subsidiary, and one we expect to significantly impact the landscape of personalized medicine."
A partnership with Insight Diagnostics Inc., also through Victory Square Health, will focus on the development of a personalized diagnostic solution for the improved management and prevention of Type II diabetes.
The company's investment in V2 Games, a development and publishing studio of high-quality mobile games, is another example of incubating great ideas. V2 Games is well known for its successful launch of PAC-MAN Bounce and Beast Brawlers, two of the company's releases that are capturing the gaming world by the millions of downloads.
In a move designed to strengthen its presence in film and entertainment, Victory Square has acquired a 40 percent equity stake in United Film Fund II, LLC, which is producing three major motion pictures in 2017 and 2018 including "What They Had," starring two-time Academy Award winner Hilary Swank.
"This kind of investment in entertainment and film represents a major plank for our Company going forward and we consider ourselves fortunate to have the opportunity to acquire this 40% stake in the Film Fund," said Tejani, who has launched more than 40 startups in 21 countries that employ hundreds of people and generate more than $100 million in annual revenues. "We believe it's another strong initiative in film production for us and our stakeholders," he added.
Victory Square has strategically positioned itself in the legal cannabis industry through an investment in Tantalus Labs, a Canadian-based cannabis cultivation company. Tantalus Labs optimizes plant health and sustainable cultivation by using a unique, environmentally controlled greenhouse engineered specifically for growing cannabis. Called a "SunLab," the greenhouse takes 90 percent less electricity, uses filtered rainwater, and cools the growing environment to prevent stagnant moisture, recycling the air every 7 minutes to achieve maximum airflow.
Victory Square and its leadership team have seamlessly transitioned from its former identity as Fantasy 6 Sports Inc, a company focused solely on fantasy sports, mobile gaming and immersive sports, to a strategic technology company that creates, funds and successfully executes leading-edge ideas. A long-time technology entrepreneur and advocate of the industry, Tejani received the Person-of-the-Year Award at the 2017 Technology Impact Awards in British Columbia, a hallmark award category that recognizes betterment of the tech industry through leadership and philanthropic or enterprise skills and talents. Tejani has pledged to match up to $1 million in donated funds to be shared by a number of Canadian endeavors aimed at education and child-safe projects.
"These are exciting and important steps in the evolution and growth of our Company, and which properly and fully align with our strategic plan focusing on our core competencies in Blockchain Technology, Artificial Intelligence, Gaming, Personalized Health, Film and Virtual, Augmented and Mixed Reality," said Tejani. "We're spurred on by the success we have had in building on our original forays into fantasy sports, mobile gaming and immersive sports. In addition, we are energized by our most recent initiatives in sports, personalized health and entertainment and the confidence being shown by our shareholders in the dynamic direction of the Company."
Victory Square Technologies and its management team believe innovation, incubation of excellent ideas and social responsibility are at the core of its growing success.
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