| SeriousTraders Monthly August 2017 |
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This Month Includes: |
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ABcann Global (TSX.V: ABCN)
(OTCQB: ABCCF)
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."
Algae Dynamics Corp (ADYNF)
Algae Dynamics Corp (ADYNF) is focused on developing proprietary research and products involving botanical oils derived from cannabis and algae.
The original core of the company's product development strategy was the extraction of Omega-3 fatty acids from certain strains of algae with high concentrations of DHA to create various nutraceutical products. As a result of the many demonstrated health benefits of other botanical oils, most notably cannabis oil, Algae Dynamics developed a strategy aimed at developing products that combined the health benefits of algae and cannabis oils. Capitalizing on the burgeoning demand for cannabis oil and other smoke-free alternatives to marijuana consumption will help support ongoing initiatives to create and market research-driven product formulations.
Although the company is publicly traded in the U.S., business is conducted in Canada with no exposure to U.S. federal regulation involving cannabis. The Canadian cannabis oil extraction marketplace is projected to grow from C$1 million in 2015 to C$1.7 billion in 2020, which is more than a 1,000-fold increase. With the Government of Canada indicating a target date for full legalization on or before July 2018, numerous opportunities for sales in extracts and oils will open up very soon.
Using Colorado as a comparable example, a study performed by Mackie Research Capital found that 45% of dried marijuana users in the state would eventually convert to marijuana extracts and oils. This is because most consumers taking cannabis for medical purposes are increasingly looking for delivery systems that do not involve smoking marijuana. The market's attractiveness can be further realized when considering that the Canada's licensed producer marketplace is far less competitive with 45 current licensed producers for the whole country vs. 624 licensed cultivators in Colorado.
Collaborating with prominent Canadian universities is a core part of the Algae Dynamics' plan to bolster cannabis extraction expertise, develop premium products and add to its portfolio of intellectual property. Through its agreements with the University of Waterloo and the University of Western Ontario, the company is focusing primarily on the use of extracts from cannabis oil and algae oil in the context of cancer as well as the development of new pharmacotherapies for mental health.
Near-term goals include expanding research and development work with existing and new Canadian universities, securing supply/service agreements with licensed producers, and submitting an application to Health Canada to become a licensed producer of medical marijuana and ultimately have a license to sell products derived from cannabinoids. Algae Dynamics also owns a proprietary technology for the cultivation of low cost, highly pure algae biomass, which will be developed as a vertical integration strategy in the future to support the need to source algae oil for research-driven product formulations. The management team leading these initiatives has nearly a century of beneficial experience spanning from management and process experience to successful fund raising and commercialization.
As part of its key objective to be the #1 research Canadian cannabis oil research-driven product formulator, the company has also formed a strong team of scientific and strategic advisors that complement ongoing R&D relationships and initiatives. Individuals who support the company's initiatives include Dr. Jonathan Blay PhD, FRSB, FIBMS, Csci, CBiol, who performs research and product development on cannabis oil and its constituents in the context of colorectum, pancreas, breast and prostate cancers; and Dr. Steven Laviolette, BSc, PhD, who performs research and product development on cannabis oil and its constituents in the context of depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety and schizophrenia.
With such a strong foundation laid in the areas being pursued, Algae Dynamics is well positioned to execute on its carefully developed business plan to fast-track to revenue growth while having a longer-term strategy to build a sustainable enterprise-building opportunity in a rapidly expanding market.
AppSwarm, Inc. (SWRM)
AppSwarm, Inc. (SWRM) is a technology development and incubation acceleration company that partners up with developers through joint ventures, royalty agreements, marketing partnerships, and outright purchase agreements. Focusing on the ever-growing mobile applications market, the company provides all the resources needed for engagement, retention, virality and monetization.
The global games market generated approximately $100 billion in revenues in 2016, but large global game companies have made it extremely difficult for smaller developers to achieve success in the marketplace. As a result, many great ideas aren't monetized. AppSwarm solves this problem by providing the funding and critical business expertise needed to successfully launch and market new applications.
Business applications is another area of focus for the company. Targeting small to medium sized businesses, AppSwarm will be developing and acquiring mobile application tools and platforms that increase productivity and security via data encryption, cloud storage, content management and delivery, digital payments, automation, and customer loyalty marketing solutions. Recent acquisitions made so far represent only a small example of future planned initiatives to develop and market tools for the business community.
Regardless of the target market, AppSwarm can help developers accelerate the success of their app through funding, technology and marketing expertise, as well as a unique eco system that accelerates user acquisition. The company is able to assist at any state of development with completion of concept, market analysis, business and financial management, direct sales and marketing, social game development to ensure correct product application and expedient deployment with cost efficiency.
Ron Brewer, CEO of the company, has accumulated extensive leadership in the technology sector and brings valuable knowledge gained as a Director of Southbridge Advisory Group for nearly 20 years. Ron's C-level experience includes merger & acquisition and post-acquisition turnaround in both the private and small-cap public sector. John Rabbit, director of finance, is a seasoned business veteran that has worked with Fortune 500 firms and served in CEO, COO and CFO positions for firms ranking from $5 million to $300 million in annual revenues. John was directly involved in numerous acquisitions and served in executive capacities for several multinational subsidiaries.
With a well-suited management team, multiple synergistic revenue streams, and diversified growth strategy, AppSwarm is well positioned in a steadily growing industry with countless opportunities for capitalization.
Bollente Companies, Inc. (BOLC)
Bollente Companies, Inc. (BOLC) is in the early stages of developing a diverse portfolio of companies, targeting disruptive technologies that positively impact the environment and emerging economies. Their current focus is on high-efficiency electric tankless water heaters, manufactured and sold under "trutankless", a division of Bollente, including a line of economy tankless water heaters sold under the Vero name. Units are available for both residential and commercial application.
The primary Bollente advantage is their use of advanced technology, superior to previous tankless systems, together with a growing U.S. and global market. Traditional water heaters are one of the costliest appliances to operate. The two primary energy sources used in U.S. homes are electric and natural gas, with less than half of U.S. homes having natural gas available. In addition, there are no significant electric whole home tankless manufacturers.
The U.S. Department of Energy now requires tanks of 55 gallons or more to have efficiency levels requiring expensive heat pumps to achieve. Bollente's trutankless electric tankless water heater employs specialized sensors for constant water temperature, solid state electronics, and proprietary software, resulting in one of the most efficient heat exchangers ever produced. The technology includes smart grid and home automation capabilities, remote control and monitoring, and even smartphone alerts. It also allows adjustable custom power management settings, so that users can further enhance energy usage and performance. It is now estimated that tankless heaters used in every home would save over $8 billion annually in the U.S. alone.
By maintaining 99 percent efficiency, Bollente's trutankless heaters use less energy than tank heaters, while providing the convenience of always-hot water. The system only uses power when there is demand, producing water to exact temperature, within one degree, even with sudden changes to input. Wireless apps allow for remote settings, notifications, and monitoring, and models are compatible with existing home automation and energy management systems. The technology also reduces size, for easy location, and the system's self-flushing design provides up to 20+ years of maintenance free operation, significantly reducing upkeep and replacement costs. This becomes an additional environmental benefit since roughly 8 million used water heaters are dumped in landfills every year.
Bollente has also announced the formation of Bollente International, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary, for the international production and sale of trutankless systems. Taking advantage of growing interest in their technology, Bollente International is working with an international manufacturing firm for the production and distribution of trutankless systems throughout Europe, Asia, Australia and New Zealand, with the first step being the testing and certification necessary to meet the various international standards.
Bollente has made electric tankless water heating compelling to a major consumer market, both in and outside the U.S., offering economic as well as operational efficiency and convenience, attractive to builders as well as to end consumers.
ChineseInvestors.com
(CIIX)
Founded in 1999, ChineseInvestors.com (CIIX) has become a leading financial information website for Chinese-speaking investors in the United States and China. Recognizing unprecedented opportunities in the U.S. cannabis industry, CIIX is also laying the groundwork to capitalize on growing demand for cannabidiol (CBD)-based nutrition and health products.
Through its primary website, www.ChineseInvestors.com, CIIX offers a variety of investor education products and services, including real-time market commentary, analysis and educational related services in Chinese language character sets; consultative services to smaller private companies considering becoming a public company; and advertising and public relations related support services.
At the center of this initiative is the ChineseInvestors Method, a unique integration of a disciplined investing process, web-based tools, personalized instructions and support. Using this strategy, CIIX provides reliable market information to help investors make informed investment decisions and meet their individualized financial goals.
CIIX is also leveraging its financial expertise to enter into the burgeoning CBD industry, which within a few years has grown from a relatively invisible sector to a billowing market expected to reach $2.1 billion in consumer sales by 2020.
The increasing demand for CBD-based products is a catalyst for innovative business endeavors. To this accord, CIIX has established a three-year development plan to capitalize on the convergence of CBD and the nutrition and health products market in mainland China, where the benefits of CBD oil have not been widely recognized.
Under a wholesale agreement with a reputable CBD health brand, CIIX is launching the world's first online CBD health products store published in the Chinese language. The site, www.ChineseCBDoil.com, caters to a growing number of Chinese people awakening to the numerous health benefits of CBD oil for treatment of a variety of conditions such as anxiety, stress, poor sleep, Alzheimer's disease, and more. CIIX expects to launch this website at the end of January 2017, and plans to sell CBD-infused products via online and in-store.
In conjunction, CIIX's cannabis-focused "Yelp"-style mobile app is in development as a platform for Chinese people to review and discuss various cannabis products. The app will be the first marijuana social media mobile app designed for Chinese-speaking customers worldwide.
Global Payout, Inc.
(GOHE)
Global Payout, Inc. (GOHE) provides comprehensive payment solutions that can be fully customized for virtually any domestic and international organization distributing money worldwide. The company is committed to enabling global access to technology for optimizing financial transactions and delivering a global financial eco-system with top-tier banking institutions and the highest level financial technology partnerships.
Today, more than ever before, commercial enterprises and government institutions need powerful financial technology solutions that have the flexibility to deliver innovative customer centric services and drive operational efficiency gains throughout the organization. The Global Reserve Platform is Global Payout's fully configurable "banking-in-a-box" web-based platform that can fulfill the front-to-back office processing requirements of domestic, foreign exchange and international payment service providers. This platform is designed to improve work flow, operational efficiencies, and global financial management for enterprises operating across the globe.
The Global Reserve Platform can manage practically any financial product, including core and traditional banking products, online banking, card management, mobile wallets, merchant payment processing, biometric payments and authentication management, bill payments and P2P payments, international remittances, government benefits management, loans management, FOREX, and SWIFT / ACH / SEPA payments. Powered by the Global Reserve Administrative module, the platform can be customized for enterprises across a multitude of business sectors.
Investment in financial technology (FINTECH) companies has grown dramatically in recent years with the role of today's banks shrinking and demand for improved financial solutions continuing to rise. As the industry has continued to expand rapidly, Global Payout's management team has directed its focus on identifying the most promising market sectors with FINTECH needs. The four core areas selected are logistics, small and medium enterprises (SME), banking and travel.
In 2015, Global Payout introduced MoneyTrac Technology Inc. as a majority owned subsidiary to more effectively focus on the development of financial technologies that specifically address many of the challenges that enterprises in a variety of alternative and "high-risk" market sectors are faced with in processing financial transactions. Powered by Virtu Network Solutions, the MoneyTrac Technology platform is one the most configurable and intuitive financial technology platforms available to alternative and "high-risk" enterprises and provides them with solutions that effectively manages everything from pin debit and virtual currency, to compliance and cash flow logistics.
With the global economy constantly becoming more diversified and connected, Global Payout is well positioned with the technology software solutions its team has developed to address many different needs worldwide. Management has committed itself to exploring and identifying every avenue possible for further establishing itself as a recognized leader in FINTECH solutions.
HighCom Global Security, Inc. (HCGS)
HighCom Global Security, Inc. (HCGS) is a manufacturer and distributor of protective products for military and law enforcement personnel. The Corporation operates under two segments, BlastGard Defense Group and Highcom Security.
Blastguard is a blast mitigation specialist with proprietary material proven to effectively mitigate blasts and suppress fires resulting from explosions. The company's patented BlastWrap® technology acts as a "virtual tent" to effectively mitigate blast effects and suppress post-blast fires. This unique technology works by triggering physical and chemical processes to dissipate blast energy, thereby reducing the aftermath of acoustic and shock waves, peak overpressure, reflected peak overpressure, impulse and afterburn. The remaining, significantly reduced energy is transmitted at a slower, more sustainable level. Notably, BlastWrap does not dispense chemical extinguishants; uses neither alarms, sensors, nor an activation system; and is nontoxic and ecologically friendly.
Similarly, the company's BlastGard MTR trash receptacles dramatically reduce lethal threats posed by the detonation of an improvised explosive device (IED). Equipped with Triple Wall Technology, BlastGard MTR mitigates primary fragments, secondary fragments, mechanical effects (shock/blast pressure) and thermal effects (contact and radiation burn) from the fireball, after-burn and resultant post-blast fires.
BlastGard's primary market focus lies on providing blast effects mitigation solutions for customers operating in the commercial sector, military, law enforcement and government agencies. With a vision of being recognized as the leading provider of environmentally responsible solutions to protect lives and structures from the hazards associated with fire and explosions, the company is capable of addressing a wide array of industry applications spanning from fire suppression for naval vessels and merchant ships to protection of buildings against vehicle bombs.
This vision is supported by the ban of Halon extinguishing agents, as outlined in the Montreal protocol, which effectively establishes BlastWrap® as the only blast and fire suppression means available for most applications, including adaptation for underwater use.
The company's position at the head of the blast suppression market has helped BlastGard attain a number of government awards, including designation of its BlastWrap® product as a Qualified Anti-Terrorism Technology and placement on the "Approved Products List for Homeland Security." This designation was extended in early 2017, meaning that BlastWrap® is approved for use by the Department of Homeland Security under the SAFETY Act until November 2021.
HighCom Security, develops, tests, manufactures and distributes body armor and personal protective equipment, including more than two dozen NIJ (National Institute of Justice) compliant hard and soft armor products. Highcom Security has a 20-year history of producing quality armor with no operational failures and no recalls of its American made products.
Highcom Security was founded in 1997 and has produced close to 1 million pieces of armor for the Global community. The company is ISO 9001:2008 certified and the first company in the world to be BA 9000:2012 certified compliant.
For the past decade, Highcom Security has also been able to offer some of the largest armor manufacturers with private label/OEM hard armor solutions for end use by military and law enforcement agencies globally, a market reach obtained because of the company's reputation for innovative technology, exceptional customer service and superior quality performance.
India Globalization Capital, Inc. (NYSE: IGC)
India Globalization Capital, Inc. (NYSE: IGC) is a first mover in developing a portfolio of products using cannabis-based "combination therapies" for the treatment of Alzheimer's, cachexia, pain and other conditions.
Through a definitive agreement with the University of South Florida, IGC is the exclusive licensee of the U.S. patent filing entitled "THC as a Potential Therapeutic Agent for Alzheimer's Disease." Known as America's most expensive disease with an estimated cost to the U.S. economy of $236 billion, Alzheimer's currently effects more than 5.3 million Americans and over the next 20 years the number of those afflicted with the disease is expected to double. By acquiring the exclusive right to this patent filing, IGC is protecting a potential cannabis-based blockbuster treatment.
The Company has also filed combination therapy formulations for the treatment of epilepsy and cachexia. About 50 million people worldwide are affected by epilepsy and about 1.3 million in the U.S. experience cachexia associated with cancer, MS, Parkinson's, HIV/AIDS and other progressive illnesses. Cancer-induced anorexia/cachexia is responsible for 20% of all cancer deaths. IGC-502 indicated for seizures and IGC-504 indicated for cachexia are unique combination therapies that, if proven out by clinical trials, are expected to treat medical refractory epilepsy and eating disorders respectively, with lower side effects than conventional mono therapies.
Successful treatment of pain represents an enormous market opportunity as well with the national cost of health care due to pain ranging from $560 billion to $635 billion. In addition, the health care cost attributed to the abuse of prescription opioids, closely related to pain, is approximately $25 billion. IGC's patent filing (IGC-501) is a cannabis-based formulation addressing neuropathic and arthritic pain in joints and muscles using a variety of delivery techniques. The Company anticipates commencing clinical trials, and hopes that through its focus on combination therapy it can formulate and commercialize cannabinoid compounds as an alternative to long-term addictive opioid treatments.
IGC's strategy is exciting and unique in that it is aiming to become a leader in the phytocannabinoid-based combination therapy specialty pharmaceutical sector. This first mover advantage can potentially be formidable as it begins clinical trials and further builds its patent portfolio. "The development of combination therapies utilizing cannabis represents a large, unique opportunity in this emerging specialty-pharmaceutical sector. Securing FDA approval for combination therapy is believed to be significantly faster and less expensive than new drug applications. As a result, we believe that we can bring our cannabis-based pharmaceutical products to market in both an expeditious and cost-effective manner," stated Ram Mukunda, CEO.
IGC has recently exited its legacy businesses. An impressive and experienced team, led by Mr. Ram Mukunda, CEO, directs IGC.
Mr. Mukunda holds degrees in Electrical Engineering and Mathematics from the University of Maryland (UMD). He founded and served as Chairman and CEO of Startec Global Communications, an international telecommunications carrier focused on providing voice over Internet protocol (VOIP) services to emerging economies. Startec, the first pure play international long distance carrier, went public on NASDAQ. He has won a number of awards, including the 2013 University of Maryland International Alumnus of the year award. Mr. Mukunda serves as an Emeritus member on the Board of Visitors at the University of Maryland, School of Engineering, and has served as Council Member at Harvard's Kennedy School of Government, Belfer Center of Science and International Affairs. Mr. Mukunda and Dr. Krishna are the originators of all the IGC patent filings.
Dr. Ranga Krishna, Senior Advisor, is a Board Certified Neurologist with a sub specialty in Epilepsy surgery. He is the Director of Neurology at the New York Community Hospital affiliated with New York Presbyterian Weil Cornell Medical College and the Director of Stroke Service at the New York Community Hospital affiliated with New York Presbyterian Weil Cornell Medical College. He is the Medical Director and Chairman of Total Neuro Care, P.C. He is CEO of International Pharma Trials, Inc., which assists U.S. pharmaceutical companies perform Phase II clinical trials. Dr. Krishna is a member of several organizations, including the American Academy of Neurology and the Medical Society of the State of New York. He is also a member of the Medical Arbitration panel for the New York State Workers' Compensation Board and a Founding Member of the New York State Pain Society. Dr. Krishna was trained at New York's Mount Sinai Medical Center (1991-1994) and New York University (1994-1996). Dr. Krishna and Mr. Mukunda are the originators of all the IGC patent filings.
InMed Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (CSE:IN) (OTCQB: IMLFF)
InMed Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (CSE:IN) (OTCQB: IMLFF) is a preclinical-stage biopharmaceutical company specializing in the development of novel therapeutics leveraging the pharmacological benefits of cannabinoids. Utilizing its proprietary bioinformatics assessment tool, InMed aims to identify bioactive compounds found within the cannabis plant that have the potential to offer optimized therapeutic benefit while demonstrating limited adverse effects. This assessment tool, in combination with the company's cannabinoid biosynthesis technology and drug development pipeline, serves as InMed's fundamental value driver.
Bioinformatics is a proprietary, computer-based program designed to assist in the identification of novel cannabinoids using comprehensive algorithms to integrate data from numerous bioinformatics databases, as well as a database on the structure of currently approved pharmaceutical products and an extensive database on over 90 individual cannabinoid drugs found in cannabis. This extensive collection of data is derived from both public and propriety-based sources. Leveraging this tool, the company aims to create associations between approved pharmaceuticals and cannabinoids with similar structures in order to identify active cannabinoids that have the potential to treat specific diseases. Per InMed's website, this type of bioinformatics assessment represents "significant promise for future drug discovery, as it integrates many data sets and builds holistic models to approach a specific disease."
After discovering these promising active cannabinoids, InMed moves to test and confirm their activity in biological systems through in vitro and in vivo experimentation. It is at this stage of development that the company's proprietary biosynthesis process of cannabinoid manufacturing will be most promising. InMed is currently developing a robust, high-yield biosynthesis process for manufacturing all 90+ naturally-occurring cannabinoids. By modifying the agriculture-based formula for harvesting cannabinoids, InMed aims to combine the inherent safety and known efficacy of the natural drug structure with the convenience, control and quality of 21st Century laboratory-based manufacturing processes.
The company's pipeline currently includes two drug candidates in preclinical development, including INM-750 for the treatment of epidermolysis bullosa (EB) and INM-085 for the treatment of glaucoma. Referred to by the Dystrophic Epidermolysis Bullosa Research Association of America as "The Worst Disease You've Never Heard Of," EB is a rare genetic connective tissue disorder that affects roughly one out of every 20,000 births in the United States. The condition currently has no approved treatment or cure. Through the development of INM-750, InMed is attempting to address this significant unmet medical need. The drug candidate replaces missing keratins in the skin with specially selected cannabinoids in an effort to modulate the painful manifestations of EB.
INM-085, InMed's second development candidate, is formulated to reduce the elevated intra-ocular pressure that is often associated with glaucoma. Additionally, the cannabinoids utilized in INM-085 are expected to provide neuroprotection for the retinal ganglion cells and other optic nerve tissues following topical administration. Although it is still in preclinical development, INM-085 targets a sizable market. According to the Glaucoma Research Foundation, glaucoma is a leading cause of blindness with no approved cure. The National Institutes of Health estimates that more than 3 million Americans currently have glaucoma, and more than 120,000 have been blinded by the disease.
InMed is focused on progressing toward validation of its drug candidate selection, using data to secure its patents and developing key disruptive technologies. In 2016, the company was successful in completing financings of $1.9 million. In January 2017, InMed completed a non-brokered private placement of common shares generating aggregate gross proceeds of C$1.5 million, strongly positioning the company to attract the new investment required to fund its aggressive growth strategies in 2017.
The company's management team has well over a century of combined experience in the biopharmaceutical space. Company CEO Eric Adams has more than 25 years of experience in company and capital formation, global market development, mergers and acquisitions, licensing and corporate governance. During his time as CEO of enGene Inc., he led the gene therapy startup to a position at the head of the industry.
Joining Adams on the InMed management team are Chief Scientific Officer Dr. Sazzan Hossain; Senior Vice President, Clinical and Regulatory Affairs Alexandra D.J. Mancini; SVP, Corporate Strategy & Investor Relations Chris Bogart; and Chief Financial Officer Jeff Charpentier, as well as Chief Medical Officer Dr. Ado Muhammed, MD, DPM, MFPM.
Muhammed, in particular, has an extensive history in the pharmaceutical industry, having previously served as an executive of GW Pharmaceuticals, a global leader in the development of cannabinoid-based medicines. During his time as Associate Medical Director of that company, Muhammed played an instrumental role in the development and FDA approval of one of the first cannabis drugs. This GW Pharmaceuticals development program coincided with a sharp rise in share price from less than $9 in 2013 to more than $129 today, with the company's current market value totaling more than $2.9 billion.
Lexaria Bioscience Corp. (CSE: LXX) (OTCQB: LXRP)
Lexaria Bioscience Corp. (CSE: LXX) (OTCQB: 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.
Monaker Group, Inc. (MKGI)
Monaker Group, Inc. (MKGI) is a technology driven travel company focused on leveraging resources to become a significant presence in the fastest growing sector of the $1.3 trillion travel and tourism market. The company's flagship brand, NextTrip.com, is the industry's first and only real-time booking engine that features alternative lodging (vacation home rentals, resort residences and unused timeshare inventory – "ALR"), as well as a full selection of airlines, hotels, cruises, rental cars, tours and concierge services all powered by the Moanker Booking Engine ("MBE"). These features are combined into a single, easy-to-use platform that gives travelers complete real-time control when planning and booking their vacations.
NextTrip.com takes an integrated approach to the needs of travelers by combining multiple booking solutions into a highly intuitive real-time booking platform. Since its launch in February 2016, NextTrip has already grown to more than 250,000 units of vacation rental inventory. Monaker currently has roughly 2 million additional alternative lodging units under contract that will soon be added to the platform. This places NextTrip among the top three largest vacation rental inventories and rival industry peers, Airbnb and HomeAway, in the rapidly expanding alternative lodging market. Unlike the competition, which book by request which can take hours or days before a lodging owner confirms, NextTrip's platform books in real-time, similar to online hotel bookings.
Most NextTrip listings are in desirable locations around the globe including the U.S., the EU and the Caribbean with 10% as exclusive listings. Monaker expects exclusive listing growth because, unlike the competition, Monaker doesn't charge a sign-up fee, just a commission upon booking. The competition charges both. Monaker even has a proprietary solution to unlock Timeshare and Fractional Share properties as rental inventory.
The Monaker Booking Engine, significant ALR inventory and strategic distribution partnerships positionnMonaker to be a major player in the travel and alternative lodging sector. In addition Monaker is also the parent to Maupintour and Voyage TV.
In business for 65 years, Maupintour still leads the tour industry in the creation of outstanding, unique itineraries and has the highest repeat rate in the tour industry. Maupintour's upscale luxury services create a unique blend with the various product offerings of NextTrip. Voyage TV has thousands of hours of travel footage shot in over 30 countries worldwide. These 15,000 video clips of hotels, resorts, cruise, and destination activities are a treasure trove for vacation travel marketing.
With an established portfolio of travel brands, and a proven record acquiring, consolidating and integrating companies, Monaker is building a diverse and exciting foundation to drive the company's future. According to data from the U.S. Travel Association, direct spending on leisure travel by domestic and international travelers topped $650 billion in 2015. When combined with the fact that roughly 64 percent of travel companies are still considered small businesses, Monaker's all-inclusive approach to vacation booking through Distributor Partnerships forged with the MBE, NextTrip and Maupintour strategically positions it for sustainable growth moving forward.
Monaker is headquartered in South Florida,he company is led by a seasoned management team with decades of applicable industry experience. Monaker's Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Bill Kerby has over 18 years of experience in the travel and media industries , as well as 10 years of experience in the financial industry.
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.
PotNetwork Holding Inc. (POTN)
PotNetwork Holding Inc. (POTN), based in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, is a holding company. The company's First Capital Venture Co. subsidiary is the owner of Diamond CBD, Inc., a producer of widely-distributed CBD hemp extracts and the primary operating entity of PotNetwork Holding.
Diamond CBD is made up of chemists and other scientists focused on developing and producing very high-quality CBD oil over a broad range of products, based upon a thorough understanding of the various natural molecules found in hemp and their particular properties. All products are made with federally legal cannabidiol (CBD), and are available in hundreds of flavors and sizes. The company emphasizes a dedication to 100% natural lab-tested CBD ingredients, with a carefully monitored process all the way from the source farm, through production, and final delivery to retail shelves.
PotNetwork, through Diamond CBD, delivers products to all 50 states, as well as internationally, and controls 15 CBD brands. The company lists the following product brands:
- Diamond CBD Gummies – Diamond CBD branded edible gummies made from crystal isolate. Available in a variety of flavors and gummy styles, including rainbow bites, mini fruit, gummy worms, sour snakes, and more.
- Chill Gummies – Chill gummies are more robust than its counterpart, the "Relax" gummy line. Chill Gummies are edible CBD gummies available in a wide variety of flavors, strengths, and styles including gummy bears, sour snakes, rainbow bites, watermelon slices, sour snakes, rainbow bites, peanut butter chocolate, ocean gummies, gummy worms, gummy rings and more.
- CBD Liquid Gold – CBD Liquid Gold is derived from naturally grown industrial hemp plants, certified by USA labs and then carefully mixed with a patent-pending (non-PG) all-natural base formulation.
- Blue CBD – Blue CBD Crystal Isolate is a high-end vapor liquid and oral drop infused with premium CBD rich hemp oil. CBD liquids are Premium Gold quality and test at a 7X higher concentration.
- Relax Gummies – Relax Gummies give a lighter effect of CBD with some natural flavors in comparison to its counterpart Chill Gummies. Relax Gummies are perfect for anyone with a sweet tooth that's looking for a lighter effect without sacrificing quality or taste.
- Premium Hemp Liquid Pet – CBD For Pets is a new and refreshing product from Diamond CBD for all the millions of pets out there. It is an organic product and also has unique flavors in it.
- CBD Re-Leaf – Disposable, long-lasting, and ready to Use CBD Re-leaf vaping pens available in a variety of flavors. Easily take CBD anywhere on the go.
- Relax Extreme CBD – Relax Extreme CBD Oil provides a high-quality, high-strength dose of CBD through oral drops. It is very easy to use and works instantly. Simply place a drop under the tongue. Available in various strengths.
- CBD Double Shot – CBD Double Shots are specifically designed for one-time use. Easily squeeze the package in your mouth and swallow; it's that simple. Take it anywhere you go. Relaxation is now conveniently in your pocket. Drinkable CBD shots provide a quick boost of relaxation on the go. Available in various flavors.
- Chill Pill – CBD infused capsules available in various strengths. Relax, take a Chill Pill.
Over 1.2 million people currently use cannabis, including CBD products, for medical application, including cancer, epilepsy, and depression. By sourcing hemp outside the U.S., the company avoids current federally-based legal problems involved in growing cannabis domestically. In the meantime, PotNetwork Holding continues to target a large and rapidly developing cannabis market, expanding from $6.5 billion in 2016, to an expected $30 billion in 2021 (Forbes), and $50 billion in 2026 (Bloomberg). The cannabidiol market alone is projected to reach $2.1 billion in 2020, a 700% increase from 2015. PotNetwork Holding Inc. plans to expand its subsidiaries as well as make strategic acquisitions.
ProBility Media Corp. (PBYA)
ProBility Media Corp. (PBYA), based in Houston, TX, is an EdTech Company that is building the first full service training and career advancement brand for the skilled trades. Through both acquisitions and organic growth, ProBility is executing a disruptive strategy of defragmenting the market place of disparate companies servicing fifteen vertical categories in over sixty skilled trades. ProBility has positioned itself as a key industrial training resource for individuals, small- and medium-size businesses as well as enterprise customers offering consistent high-quality training services and materials for education, testing, and career advancement.
Through its Electrical Training Division, the company has become the biggest wholesaler of electrical codes and test preparation materials in the U.S., while its Construction Training Division is one of the largest certification providers in the country, with programs in 22 states, and continuing to grow. The company serves corporate accounts and government buyers, and also offers advisory services for companies of all sizes.
Companies currently under the ProBility Media conglomerate include:
- Brown Technical Media Corp. – An online web business with multiple micro web sites featuring training materials and codes and standards sought by engineers, construction workers, scientists and other tradesmen in a wide variety of fields.
- Brown Technical Publications – A proprietary publishing business generating copyrighted training materials for engineers, construction workers, scientists and other tradesman in a wide variety of fields.
- 1ExamPrep – E-Learning, education and exam preparation for contractors via the cheapest, fastest and most effective exam prep school in the industry instituting our 4-point proven learning system.
- National Electrical Wholesale Providers – In the business of distributing wholesale industrial, commercial and residential training materials including HVAC, plumbing and electrical.
ProBility's technology platform features virtual reality training for the crane business to be expanded into other industries, online subscription services for enterprise level companies, and recurring revenue streams. In addition, the company is already beginning to explore international expansion options, supported by the fact that other countries have adopted U.S. based codes, and have used U.S. training services.
The company's acquisition strategy targets operations that service engineering firms, electrical contractors, fabricators, plumbing contractors, pipe fitters, riggers, QC firms, and additional vocational industries.
Singlepoint, Inc. (SING)
Singlepoint, Inc. (SING) has grown from a full-service mobile technology provider to a publicly-traded holding company. Through diversification into horizontal markets, SinglePoint is building its portfolio by acquiring an interest in undervalued subsidiaries, thereby providing a rich, diversified holding base.
SinglePoint's approach is to first research and identify acquisition opportunities in which it can take an active and influential role among existing leadership to provide enhanced strategy and direction. Target companies are undervalued, cash-flow positive, with high potential and verified assets. SinglePoint acquires and takes controlling interest of successful candidate companies.
SinglePoint recently signed a Letter of Intent to acquire an interest in Jacksam Corp., dba Convectium, a profitable California-based provider of equipment, branding, and packaging solutions for the cannabis industry. Convectium has developed the world's first cartridge and vape pen oil filling machine for wholesale distribution to dispensaries. The 710Shark and 710Seal systems can fill and package over 100 cartridges or disposable vape pens in 30 seconds and are sold to dispensaries through its EquipCanna.com brand. The company also operates a consumer brand that includes BlackoutX and HazeSticks and reaches customers in over 52 countries.
Additionally, SinglePoint has raised more than $300,000. The move provides management with ample capital to execute its business plan, while avoiding debt repayments that can eat into cash flow and reduce flexibility over time. It's also a rare development for a development-stage company in the cannabis industry.
Guided by a visionary leadership team with extensive experience in technology, engineering, marketing and raising capital, SinglePoint continues to explore high-potential acquisition opportunities to grow and diversify its current holding base. The company also plans to uplist to the OTCQB and become a fully reporting company during the current fiscal year.
The company has engaged Milost Advisors to pursue acquisitions and financing facilities toward funding acquisitions, as well as to provide working capital. Milost Advisors will assist SinglePoint in the acquisition of undervalued companies with annual revenues of at least $50 million, and has already identified potential acquisition targets for the company to consider.
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