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by John F. Heerdink, Jr. June 23, 2025

Modular Medical’s GLP-1 Pump Study: A Fresh Take on Diabetes & Obesity Management Innovation – ( $MODD $LLY $NVS )

Modular Medical, Inc. (NASDAQ: MODD) , a company with a knack for shaking up the insulin delivery market, is set to make a splash at the American Diabetes Association (ADA) 85th Scientific Sessions taking place June 20-23, 2025, at the McCormick Place Convention Center in Chicago, Illinois. The company unveiled findings from an exploratory study that could have meaningful implications for diabetes and obesity management, all with the flair of their user-friendly, FDA-cleared patch pump—designed not just for the tech-savvy, but for the “almost-pumpers” among us who crave simplicity and affordability. The ADA 85th Scientific Sessions is the world’s largest diabetes conference, bringing together over 11,000 physicians, scientists, and healthcare professionals to explore cutting-edge advancements in diabetes research, treatment, and care. Modular Medical’s participation underscores its commitment to driving innovation in diabetes therapies and improving patient outcomes.

A Mouse, a Pump, and a GLP-1 Agonist Walk Into a Lab…

At the heart of Modular Medical’s presentation is a poster titled “Elucidating the potential benefit of pump-delivered subcutaneous GLP-1R agonist: an exploratory study in the diet-induced obese mouse.” Led by Dr. David Maggs, this study explores whether delivering a short-acting GLP-1 receptor agonist via pump can tip the scales—literally—in the battle against obesity and glucose intolerance. The research zeroes in on diet-induced obese mice, examining how this delivery method affects their weight, food intake, and glucose tolerance. While the mice may not have had much say in the matter, the results could help shape future therapies for humans, especially as GLP-1 agonists like semaglutide and liraglutide have already made headlines for their dual roles in diabetes and weight management. Jeb Besser, CEO of Modular Medical stated, “We are excited to share our findings from this novel study in the DIO mouse comparing the pump delivery of exenatide to intermittent dosing of semaglutide. Given the high rate of gastrointestinal tolerability challenges and resultant discontinuation that is characteristic of GLP-1 therapy, we believe that a personalized approach to GLP-1 titration and dosing, including a mealtime bolus option, would give patients an opportunity to reach their treatment goals, while experiencing easier therapy initiation and a more tolerable maintenance regimen.”

Why Pumps? Why Now?

Insulin pumps have long been the domain of the highly motivated “super user,” but Modular Medical is on a mission to democratize this technology. Their two-part patch pump is engineered to be as approachable as a cup of coffee—no PhD required. The company’s upcoming MODD2 system aims to integrate continuous glucose monitoring and algorithm-driven dosing, nudging the market closer to a closed-loop “artificial pancreas” that could make day-to-day diabetes management nearly hands-off.

This modular approach isn’t just a clever branding exercise. In biomedical research and clinical data management, modularity is the secret sauce that enables flexibility, scalability, and rapid innovation. Platforms like Medical-Blocks and IMPatienT, for example, use modular architectures to streamline data collection, analysis, and sharing across research teams and institutions, making it easier to adapt to new challenges and opportunities. In the context of Modular Medical’s work, this is believed to mean faster adaptation to new therapies and patient needs.

Financial Footing and Analyst Sentiment

Of course, no tale of medical innovation is complete without a peek at the balance sheet. Modular Medical remains a pre-revenue company, investing heavily in research and development—$14.7 million in the last fiscal year alone, a 14% jump as they ramp up for commercialization. Despite reporting a net loss of $18.8 million for the year, Wall Street’s consensus remains bullish, with analysts maintaining “buy” ratings and a median 12-month price target of $8.00 per share and is curtly trading in the $.80 range. Insiders, too, have shown confidence, recently snapping up over half a million dollars in company stock. Modular Medical announced on March 20, 2025 the execution of definitive subscription agreements with institutional and accredited investors for a private placement, which was expected to result in gross proceeds of approximately $12 million, before deducting fees and offering expenses.

The Broader Context: Modularity in Modern Medicine

The modular ethos extends well beyond pumps and mice. In epidemiological studies and patient data management, modular systems like MOSAIC and Medical-Blocks are helping researchers tackle the complexities of multi-site data collection, privacy, and consent with pre-programmed modules and standardized templates. This trend toward modularity is accelerating the pace of discovery and making it easier to translate benchside breakthroughs into bedside realities.

Looking Ahead

As Modular Medical prepares to share its latest findings with the ADA community, the company stands at the intersection of innovation, accessibility, and real-world impact. By combining modular technology with a focus on user experience, they’re not only making advanced diabetes care more approachable—they’re setting the stage for a new era of patient-centered, data-driven medicine.

So, while the mice may have done the heavy lifting in this study, the implications could be far-reaching. With a wink to modularity and a nod to the future, Modular Medical’s journey is one to watch—whether you’re a clinician, a patient, or just a fan of clever solutions to complex problems.

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by John F. Heerdink, Jr. June 18, 2025

GeoVax Labs: A Shot in the Arm for Global Health, with a European Twist – ( $GOVX $IBB $XBI )

In a world where vaccine innovation can sometimes feel like a slow-motion sprint, GeoVax Labs, Inc. (NASDAQ: GOVX) has just received a welcome boost—this time, courtesy of European regulators. The company, known for its nimble approach to tackling some of the world’s most persistent health threats, recently announced that the European Medicines Agency (EMA) has greenlit a streamlined development pathway for its GEO-MVA vaccine platform, setting the stage for a potentially smoother journey through the regulatory maze.

EMA Confirming?

At the heart of this good news is the EMA’s confirmation that a single Phase 3 immuno-bridging trial will be sufficient to evaluate the efficacy of GeoVax’s vaccine candidates for mpox and smallpox—a move that could shave precious months (if not years) off the development timeline. For a company that prides itself on “innovation, differentiation, and acceleration,” this seems to be more than just a regulatory win—it’s seem to be validation of GeoVax’s strategy to bring vaccines to market faster and more efficiently.

A Pipeline Full of Promise?

GeoVax isn’t just resting on its European laurels. The company’s pipeline is brimming with candidates targeting everything from COVID-19 to hemorrhagic fevers, and even a few surprise guests like malaria and Zika. Their proprietary GV-MVA-VLP™ platform, originally conceived as a safe vector for immunocompromised individuals, is now being deployed to create vaccines that could protect against a veritable who’s who of viral villains—Ebola, Sudan, Marburg, and more.

Meanwhile, oncology isn’t left out of the party. GeoVax’s Gedeptin® therapy is making waves in the treatment of advanced head and neck cancer, with clinical data recently showcased at the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting. The company is also exploring the potential of its technology in other solid tumors, proving that its scientific creativity knows few bounds.

Navigating the Highs and Lows

Of course, the path to vaccine stardom isn’t always smooth. GeoVax has faced its share of challenges, including the abrupt cancellation of a major BARDA-funded Phase 2b trial for its next-generation COVID-19 vaccine—a setback that sent ripples through investor circles and prompted analysts to adjust their price targets. Yet, the company has managed to keep its sense of humor (and its focus), continuing to advance its other programs and even expanding its patent portfolio.

Collaborating?

With a strategic presence now established in Europe and a growing network of collaborators, GeoVax is seems to be well-positioned to make good on its mission: improving lives worldwide by preventing or treating some of the most challenging cancers and infectious diseases.

by John F. Heerdink, Jr. June 16, 2025

“Is The Beaten Down Biotech Sector The Smartest Bet In Today’s Volatile Market?” – ( $SER $XBI $IBB $PFE )

In the bustling digital amphitheater of Tribe Public’s latest CEO Presentation, the question of the hour was as sharp as it was timely: “Is the beaten down biotech sector the smartest bet in today’s volatile market?” With a flourish of slides and a dash of optimism, Steven A. Ledger, the CEO of Serina Therapeutics (NYSE: SER), took center stage—his mission, to illuminate opportunity amidst the gloom.

Ledger began with a confession: the current sentiment in biotech is, to put it delicately, abysmal. Nearly a quarter of the 700–800 publicly traded US biotech companies now sport negative enterprise values—a statistic that, in any other industry, might send investors running for the hills. But Ledger, with the seasoned air of a Wall Street veteran, reminded his audience of the old adage: “There’s no bell that rings at market bottoms.” In biotech, he mused, despair is often the prelude to a renaissance1.

With that, he pivoted to Serina Therapeutics—a company headquartered in Huntsville, Alabama, whose scientific founders once pioneered the PEG drug delivery technology now standard in biologics. Serina’s new claim to fame? The POZ Platform™, a biocompatible polymer designed to elegantly sidestep the immunogenic pitfalls of its predecessors. This technology, Ledger explained, is the backbone of their pipeline, enabling innovations in small molecules, RNA therapeutics, and antibody-drug conjugates.

The crown jewel of Serina’s efforts is a reformulated apomorphine therapy for advanced Parkinson’s disease. Unlike its cantankerous ancestors, this new therapy promises continuous, convenient relief—potentially transforming the patient journey from a Sisyphean struggle to something almost manageable. Ledger’s vision is grand but grounded: a blockbuster product, a robust pipeline, and a team whose résumés read like a who’s who of biotech success stories1.

As Ledger fielded questions, his tone remained buoyant yet pragmatic. He acknowledged the capital drought, the challenges of regulatory navigation, and the importance of evidence-based milestones. Yet, he insisted, for those with patience and discernment, the sector’s current malaise is less a death knell than an overture. In this light, Serina Therapeutics is not merely surviving the storm—it is, Ledger suggested with a twinkle, preparing to set sail on the next great biotech wave.

To learn more please considering watching the published event video at the Tribe Pubic YouTube Channel.

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by John F. Heerdink, Jr. June 13, 2025

From Pitch to Palace: The Making of The Knight Sir David Beckham

Once upon a time in east London, a boy with a mop of hair and a penchant for bending footballs around hapless defenders dreamed of wearing the red of Manchester United and the white of England. That boy, David Beckham, would one day become not just a footballing legend but, as of June 2025, Sir David Beckham—knighted for his services to sport and charity, a tale as quintessentially British as afternoon tea and the changing of the guard.

From Pitch to Palace: The Making of a Knight

Beckham’s journey began with youthful exuberance and a football at his feet, nurtured by a family whose patriotism ran as deep as the Thames. At 11, he won a football contest, and by 17, he was dazzling crowds at Old Trafford, soon helping Manchester United to a national championship with their youth squad. His right foot became the stuff of legend, launching a halfway-line goal that made headlines and inspiring the film Bend It Like Beckham—a nod to his uncanny ability to make a football swerve as if by magic.

His club career reads like a grand tour of football’s elite: six Premier League titles, a Champions League crown, and a famous 1999 treble with Manchester United; a stint with Real Madrid’s “Galacticos”; a pioneering move to LA Galaxy that helped put American soccer on the map; and spells at AC Milan and Paris Saint-Germain, where he clinched league titles in four different countries—a first for an Englishman.

On the international stage, Beckham wore the Three Lions with pride, earning 115 caps (the third-highest for an Englishman) and captaining England 59 times. He scored in three World Cups, a feat unmatched by any other English player, and his passion for his country never wavered—even when the tabloids were less than kind.

A Global Icon, On and Off the Field

But Beckham’s story is not just about goals and glory. Off the pitch, he became a global ambassador for the beautiful game and a philanthropist of remarkable reach. In 2005, he received a call from then-UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan, inviting him to become a UNICEF ambassador—a role he embraced with characteristic dedication. From Sierra Leone to the Philippines, Beckham has traveled the world, shining a light on the challenges faced by vulnerable children and families.

His “7 Fund,” named after his iconic shirt number, has raised over $20 million, supporting education, vaccination, and mental health initiatives for children in places as far-flung as Nepal, Djibouti, and El Salvador. Beckham’s social media presence—boasting 88 million followers—has become a platform for advocacy, recently amplifying the voices of young girls from Brazil, Madagascar, and Sudan.

His charitable work extends to causes such as Malaria No More, Help for Heroes, and his own Victoria and David Beckham Charitable Trust, which provides wheelchairs to children in need. He’s also supported the Chelsea Pensioners, Great Ormond Street Hospital, Age UK, and the London Air Ambulance, making philanthropy as much a part of his legacy as his curling free kicks.

Modern-Day Sir David

Now 50, Sir David’s days are as busy as ever. As co-owner and president of Inter Miami CF, he played a pivotal role in bringing Lionel Messi to Major League Soccer, proving his knack for headline-making hasn’t faded with retirement. He also co-owns Salford City FC, maintaining his ties to Manchester and the grassroots of English football.

Despite his global fame, Beckham remains grounded. In 2022, he was spotted queuing for hours to pay respects to Queen Elizabeth II, declining any special treatment—a gesture that endeared him even more to the public. His knighthood, long anticipated and finally bestowed in King Charles III’s Birthday Honours, is the crowning achievement of a career that has transcended sport and touched countless lives.

As Sir David himself put it, “To have played for and captained my country was the greatest privilege of my career, and literally a boyhood dream come true… I am incredibly fortunate to engage in work that brings me great satisfaction, and I am thankful for this recognition. It will take some time for this news to truly resonate, but I am immensely proud, and it is an emotional moment to share with family”.

The Final Whistle

So, as the sun sets on another chapter of British sporting history, Sir David Beckham stands as a testament to the power of dreams, hard work, and a generous heart. From Leytonstone to knighthood, his story is one of bending not just footballs, but the arc of possibility itself—always with a wink, a smile, and an eye on the next goal.

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by John F. Heerdink, Jr. June 12, 2025

The U.S. IPO Market: Back in the Spotlight, With a Dash of Drama: Time to ‘Chime’ In? ( $CHYM $CRWV $ETOR )

A Comeback Worth Cheering

After a long stretch that could best be described as a financial siesta, the U.S. IPO market is finally stretching its legs and putting on a show. As of June 11, 2025, U.S. IPOs have raised a robust $25.36 billion—leaving last year’s $18.22 billion and 2023’s $9.53 billion in the dust. The recent debut of fintech darling Chime (CHYM), which soared an eye-popping 59% on its first day (today), has investors and boardrooms alike buzzing with optimism. As Michael Ashley Schulman of Running Point Capital Advisors quipped, if Chime keeps up its momentum, a dozen other “waiting room” hopefuls might just hit the ‘file’ button on their S-1s.

The Tech Parade and Tariff Tango

Tech IPOs are leading this parade, with companies like eToro (ETOR) and CoreWeave (CRWV) putting on dazzling performances. eToro, for instance, jumped nearly 29% on its Nasdaq debut, while CoreWeave’s stock has more than doubled since its IPO in March, thanks to a jaw-dropping 420% revenue surge. This resurgence comes after a brief market wobble in April, triggered by President Trump’s tariff threats, which prompted some companies—think Klarna and StubHub—to tap the brakes on their own IPO dreams.

Yet, the market is nothing if not resilient. The IPO window has swung open again, with a packed calendar featuring names like Klarna, Gemini, Cerebras, and Medline. Even the crypto crowd is getting in on the action, with Gemini confidentially filing for a U.S. IPO and whispers that Kraken might follow suit.

Who’s Next on the Runway?

The pipeline is brimming with late-stage startups, many flush with capital and eager to make their Wall Street debut. Kat Liu of IPOX notes that a successful June could set the stage for a blockbuster fourth quarter, as more companies look to ride the momentum. Renaissance Capital has even declared 2025 a “green light” year for IPOs, with new offerings up a remarkable 63.6% from last year.

Sector Stars and Market Mood

While technology and fintech are stealing the spotlight, healthcare and energy are also making waves. The first major IPO under the new administration was Venture Global, a liquefied natural gas exporter—a nod to shifting energy policies and investor appetite for traditional energy plays. Meanwhile, AI and cryptocurrency remain the market’s darlings, with recent IPOs in these sectors delivering triple-digit gains and fueling investor enthusiasm.

A Word of Caution (and a Wink)

Of course, not everything is smooth sailing. Market volatility, tariff uncertainty, and global economic jitters still cast the occasional cloud over the IPO parade. Some companies remain cautious, keeping their powder dry until the skies clear further. Yet, with interest rates stabilizing and regulatory winds blowing in a more business-friendly direction, the mood is decidedly upbeat.

The Bottom Line

The U.S. IPO market is back in business, blending high-octane tech debuts, crypto curiosity, and a healthy dose of optimism. Investors are watching closely, hoping the recent hot streak continues—and perhaps, secretly, that a little drama keeps things interesting along the way.

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by John F. Heerdink, Jr. June 10, 2025

Mining Meets Modernity At London Tech Week 2025: The Innovation Imperative – ( $RIO )

Rio Tinto (RIO), the mining titan with a knack for innovation, has set its sights on London Tech Week 2025—and it’s not just there for the canapés. As the only mining company gracing this major technology event, Rio Tinto is making waves by inviting entrepreneurs, researchers, and tech visionaries to help reimagine the future of sustainable materials and critical minerals .

Mining Meets Modernity: The Innovation Imperative

“Innovation is in our DNA,” declared Dan Walker, Rio Tinto’s Chief Innovation Officer, with the kind of gusto usually reserved for rock stars and rocket scientists. For more than 150 years, Rio Tinto has operated at the crossroads of mining and technology, and the company believes there’s never been a more urgent time to innovate. With the world facing a perfect storm of challenges—climate change, rapid urbanization, and the electrification of everything from cars to kettles—the demand for critical minerals is soaring. Meeting these needs, Walker notes, means delivering more materials, faster and more sustainably, all while keeping the environmental footprint as dainty as possible.

A Call for Collaborators: No Lone Wolves Allowed

Walker is quick to point out that these are “deeply complex issues that no organization can solve alone.” Instead, Rio Tinto is on the hunt for top-tier innovators and entrepreneurs to join its global network, which already includes startups, universities, tech leaders, and governments. The goal? To turn bold ideas into real-world solutions that can help power everything from artificial intelligence to renewable energy.

Accelerators, Ventures, and Academic Alliances

Rio Tinto’s innovation ecosystem is anything but static. The company’s Accelerator Program, run in partnership with early-stage investor Founders Factory, is designed to nurture high-potential startups in mining and sustainability.Meanwhile, the Rio Tinto Ventures Fund provides financial backing to promising young companies ready to shake up the industry.

Last year, Rio Tinto went a step further, investing $150 million to launch the Rio Tinto Centre for Future Materials. This initiative, led by Imperial College London, brings together academic heavyweights from the University of British Columbia, the University of California, Berkeley, the University of the Witwatersrand, and the Australian National University. The aim? To drive transformational research that accelerates progress toward net zero emissions—a goal that’s as ambitious as it is essential.

The company’s climate action plan targets a 50% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 2030 and net zero by 2050, supported by increased renewable electricity use (from 71% in 2023 to 78% in 2024, aiming for over 90% by 2030).

London Tech Week: Where Ideas Spark Action

Rio Tinto’s London Tech Week agenda is packed with sessions designed to ignite conversation and collaboration:

June 9: “Unlocking Tomorrow’s Tech: Powering Innovation for Sustainable Materials” — A main stage dialogue featuring CEO Jakob Stausholm and Dan Walker.
June 11: “Creating the Future from Campus: Why Are University Spinouts So Important for Innovation?” — A panel with Marie-Pierre Paquin, Head of Science & Partnerships.
June 11: “Why the Future Depends on Blurring the Lines Between Mining and ClimateTech” — A discussion led by Pekka Santasalo, Head of Growth & Ventures, with founders from three Rio Tinto-backed startups.

The Bigger Picture: Why It Matters

The world’s appetite for critical minerals—think lithium, cobalt, and rare earth elements—shows no sign of slowing, especially with the rise of electric vehicles, renewable energy, and advanced electronics. By fostering partnerships across sectors and continents, Rio Tinto is betting that collective brainpower can fast-track the breakthroughs needed for a greener, more connected future.

For those interested in the business side, Rio Tinto’s stock performance and strategic moves are closely watched by investors, reflecting the company’s central role in the global transition to clean energy and digital technologies.

‘Sum’

Rio Tinto’s presence at London Tech Week isn’t just about mining rocks—it’s about mining ideas. By opening its doors to the brightest minds in technology and academia, the company is laying the groundwork for a future where sustainability and innovation go hand in hand. So, whether you’re a startup founder, a university researcher, or just someone who likes shiny things, keep an eye on Rio Tinto—the next big breakthrough might just be forged in the most unexpected place.

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by John F. Heerdink, Jr. June 9, 2025

Biotech Funding in 2025: A Wild Ride Through Uncertainty – ( $IBB $XBI $SER )

The biotech sector, long known for its rollercoaster fortunes, is currently experiencing a particularly stomach-churning drop. If the industry were an amusement park, the “Trump Policy Plunge” would be its latest and most daunting attraction—one that’s left investors clutching their wallets a little tighter and startups searching for the exit ramp.

A Steep Decline in Funding

Recent data paints a sobering picture: biotech funding in May 2025 nosedived by 57% compared to the previous year, landing at just over $2.7 billion. This follows an equally dismal April, which saw the lowest fundraising totals in three years. The culprit? Analysts at Jefferies point to the Trump administration’s sweeping changes at the FDA, proposed budget cuts to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and a fog of uncertainty around drug pricing reforms. As one Jefferies memo put it, “Current policy proposals and agency staffing reductions have created a shadow over biotech investments”.

This chill in the funding climate is particularly perilous for biotech, where the path from discovery to a viable drug is long, winding, and expensive. Most startups burn through cash for years before seeing a glimmer of profit, making steady funding as vital as air.

Venture Capital: Still Kicking, But More Selective

While public market funding has been battered—down a staggering 62% from last year—venture capital has proven more resilient, dipping just 12% so far in 2025. In fact, the size of venture rounds remains robust, with the median hovering near $100 million, fueled by a trend toward “megarounds” that give companies more runway to weather market storms.

Interestingly, much of this capital is flowing into companies with assets ready for clinical trials, often sourced from China, where drug development can be faster and cheaper. As Samsara BioCapital’s managing partner quipped, “You bypass four years of labor to develop a drug and demonstrate its efficacy in humans… you are starting right now with an actual clinical-stage asset”. This global shift reflects a broader search for safer, quicker returns in a risk-averse climate.

IPO Drought and the Rise of M&A

The initial public offering (IPO) window, once the lifeblood of biotech, has been stubbornly jammed. While IPO sizes have ticked up—median proceeds reached $140 million in 2025—most new listings are clinical-stage companies with seasoned management, and preclinical hopefuls are finding the door firmly shut.

With the IPO market in a holding pattern, many startups are opting to stay private longer, buoyed by large venture rounds and crossover investors who can bridge the gap to a public debut. Others are eyeing mergers and acquisitions (M&A) as a more reliable exit, especially as big pharma remains hungry for innovative assets.

The Human Cost: Belt-Tightening and Tough Choices

For those on the ground, the funding drought is more than numbers on a spreadsheet. Academic institutions are scrambling to cover overheads in the face of NIH cuts, and organizations like the Chicago Biomedical Consortium worry they won’t have enough projects to support new company formation. Meanwhile, some startups are being pushed toward drastic measures—liquidating assets and returning capital to shareholders—rather than braving the current headwinds.

A Glimmer of Hope?

Despite the gloom, there are hints that the worst could be behind us. Venture funding is stabilizing at pre-pandemic levels, and industry veterans are cautiously optimistic that clarity around U.S. interest rates and the November, 2025 elections could revive investor appetite later in the year. As one industry insider put it, “If I have the option not to care by staying down as a private company, then that feels like a pretty good option”.

For now, biotech’s journey remains unpredictable—a blend of scientific ambition, political crosswinds, and financial acrobatics. But if history is any guide, the sector’s knack for adaptation may yet turn today’s turbulence into tomorrow’s breakthrough.

Want to Learn More?

Tribe Public’s Next CEO Presentation and Q&A Webinar Event titled “Is the Beaten Down Biotech Sector the Smartest Bet in Today’s Volatile Market?” will be held Wednesday, June 11 (8:30am PT / 11:30 am ET). Serina Therapeutics, Inc.’s (NYSE: SER) Chief Executive Officer, Steven A. Ledger, will deliver a presentation and be available for a 5-10 minute Q&A session at the end of the presentation. Register today at Smartest-Bet.TribePublic.com Serina Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biotechnology company developing a pipeline of wholly owned drug product candidates to treat neurological diseases and other indications. Serina’s POZ Platform™ provides the potential to improve the integrated efficacy and safety profile of multiple modalities including small molecules, RNA-based therapeutics and antibody-based drug conjugates (ADCs). Serina is headquartered in Huntsville, Alabama on the campus of the HudsonAlpha Institute of Biotechnology. Website at: https://serinatherapeutics.com.

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by John F. Heerdink, Jr. June 6, 2025

Omada Health Makes a Splashy Nasdaq Debut: Digital Health’s Second Act in 2025 – ( $OMDA $NVDA $TDOC )

A Fresh Face on Wall Street

On a lively Friday, June 6, Omada Health (OMDA) stepped onto the Nasdaq stage, becoming the second major digital health company to go public in 2025—a year that’s already shaping up as a comeback for healthcare IPOs. Omada’s shares opened at $23, quickly soaring to $28 before settling at $23 by the closing bell—a 21% leap from its IPO price of $19 per share. The company’s debut raised $150 million, pegging its market value at a healthy $1.3 billion.

What Makes Omada Tick?

Founded in 2011, Omada Health specializes in virtual care between doctor visits, helping people manage chronic conditions like diabetes, hypertension, obesity, and musculoskeletal issues. Rather than chasing the latest pharmaceutical fads, Omada has carved out its niche by focusing on clinical guidance and behavioral support—especially for weight management. Notably, the company has sidestepped the buzz around GLP-1 weight loss drugs, instead offering programs that complement such medications with coaching and nutritional advice.

CEO Sean Duffy, in a recent interview, quipped that while the GLP-1 market is “tempting,” Omada prefers to be the steady hand guiding patients through the ups and downs of chronic disease management, rather than riding the rollercoaster of drug shortages and regulatory shakeups. “Our members want human support,” Duffy said, “not just a chatbot cheering them on”.

A Pandemic-Proof Business Model

Omada’s growth story accelerated during the pandemic, as virtual care became a necessity rather than a novelty. The company expanded its reach through partnerships with major employers, pharmacy benefit managers like CVS and Cigna, and device makers such as Abbott, whose glucose monitors are now a staple for Omada’s diabetic members.Today, Omada serves over 2,000 clients and boasts more than 679,000 active members in its programs.

Show Me the Numbers

Q1 2025 revenue: $55 million (up 57% year-over-year)
2024 full-year revenue: $169.8 million (up 38% from 2023)
Q1 2025 net loss: $9.4 million (down from $19 million in Q1 2024)

Despite its impressive growth, Omada is still chasing profitability—a common theme among digital health upstarts. The company’s losses are narrowing, and Duffy is optimistic that new investors will help “rewrite the story of chronic disease” in America.

Who’s Backing Omada?

Omada’s largest pre-IPO shareholder is Revelation Partners, with other heavy hitters like US Venture Partners, Andreessen Horowitz, and Fidelity’s FMR LLC each holding around 10%. The IPO itself was shepherded by Wall Street stalwarts Morgan Stanley, Goldman Sachs, and J.P. Morgan.

Looking Ahead

With its Nasdaq debut, Omada Health isn’t just raising capital—it’s signaling that digital health is back in vogue, and perhaps here to stay. As the sector shakes off its post-pandemic hangover, Omada’s blend of technology, human touch, and clinical rigor could set the tone for the next wave of healthcare innovation.

Now, with a fresh ticker symbol (OMDA) and a billion-dollar valuation, Omada Health is ready to show Wall Street—and the world—that managing chronic illness can be as much about encouragement and data as it is about prescriptions and procedures. And if the first day’s trading is any indication, investors are ready to cheer them on.

NOW CHECK OUT IOTAIRx

IOTAIRx is a digital health company bringing unmatched accuracy with Rx-optimized AI tools and processes automation at affordable levels into any clinical practice. A proven AI-based platform delivering secured, automated and advanced patient engagement; connecting patients seamlessly, capturing real time vitals and information across populations while minimizing critical care team resources. Their mission is to break down barriers in healthcare by enabling seamless care for underserved patient populations with minimal clinical staff involvement. Through innovative virtual care models, they deliver best practices that enhance quality, improve accessibility, and reduce costs for both patients and providers.

As a member of the NVIDIA Inception Program, IOTAIRx is leveraging NVIDIA’s AI Tech Stack—including NeMo framework, NVIDIA AI Blueprints, NIM, and Project MONAI (a PyTorch-based framework for healthcare imaging)—to develop custom models and agentic AI workflows.
By integrating cutting-edge AI technologies and multimodal models, IOTAIRx is pioneering a transformative shift in healthcare. This approach enables faster, more accurate diagnoses at the point of care, reducing diagnostic errors and improving patient outcomes while lowering healthcare costs.

TDOC

Teladoc Health (NYSE: TDOC), the global leader in virtual care, announced (April 30) it has acquired UpLift, an innovative and tech-enabled provider of virtual mental health therapy, psychiatry and medication management services.  The acquisition supports the company’s strategy to further enhance its leadership position in virtual mental health, including the ability for consumers served by its BetterHelp segment to access benefits coverage for mental health services. UpLift serves the health plan market and has arrangements covering over 100 million lives, a network of over 1,500 mental health professionals, important capabilities and a talented team.

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by John F. Heerdink, Jr. June 5, 2025

C5 Capital & Sibanye-Stillwater Set Global Stage For Advanced Nuclear Energy – ( $SBSW $XLE )

In a move that could electrify the future of clean energy, C5 Capital—a global investment firm with a flair for innovation—has inked a Memorandum of Understanding with Sibanye-Stillwater (SBSW), the South African mining heavyweight, to jointly pursue advanced nuclear energy ventures across South Africa, the United States, and beyond. This strategic alliance aims to tap into the untapped: Sibanye-Stillwater’s impressive cache of nearly 60 million pounds of uranium, nestled in South African surface tailings and deep within the Beatrix mine, is set to become a linchpin for the next generation of nuclear projects.

The partnership is not just about digging up uranium; it’s about reimagining the nuclear value chain from the ground up. Together, the duo will scout, acquire, finance, develop, and manage uranium projects with an eye on fueling Small Modular Reactors (SMRs)—the compact, cost-effective powerhouses touted as the future of nuclear energy. By leveraging Sibanye-Stillwater’s global mining expertise and C5 Capital’s investment acumen—plus its stake in SMR leader X-energy—the collaboration hopes to make nuclear energy more accessible, affordable, and resilient, especially as the world races to decarbonize.

C5 Capital, already a signatory to the Net Zero Nuclear Industry Pledge and a member of the World Nuclear Association, is doubling down on its commitment to triple global nuclear capacity by 2050—a target now endorsed by over 30 countries. Meanwhile, Sibanye-Stillwater brings a diversified portfolio spanning five continents, a reputation as a top recycler of platinum group metals, and a growing interest in mine tailings retreatment, all of which add a green sheen to its uranium ambitions.

As the world pivots from coal to cleaner baseload options, this partnership positions both companies at the vanguard of a nuclear renaissance. With uranium as their ticket and SMRs as their vehicle, C5 Capital and Sibanye-Stillwater are setting the stage for a future where clean, reliable energy isn’t just a pipe dream—it’s a power play.

Citations

by John F. Heerdink, Jr. June 5, 2025

Roark Capital Strikes Spicey $1 Billion Deal For Dave’s Hot Chicken

In a move that has set the fast-casual dining world abuzz, Roark Capital—the Atlanta-based private equity titan already holding the reins of Subway, Dunkin’, and Arby’s—has added another sizzling brand to its ever-expanding menu: Dave’s Hot Chicken. The deal, valued at a spicy $1 billion, marks a new chapter for the fiery chicken chain that began as a humble parking lot pop-up just eight years ago.

From Parking Lot to Powerhouse

Dave’s Hot Chicken’s origin story reads like culinary folklore. In 2017, three childhood friends pooled $900 and a penchant for heat, setting up shop with portable fryers and folding tables in East Hollywood. Their Nashville-style hot chicken quickly developed a cult following, powered by a menu that ranges from “No Spice” to the infamous “Reaper”—a level so intense it comes with a waiver and, reportedly, the occasional trip to the hospital.

The brand’s meteoric rise is the stuff of entrepreneurial legend. By 2019, Dave’s had caught the eye of Bill Phelps, former CEO of Wetzel’s Pretzels and Blaze Pizza, who joined as CEO and spearheaded franchising efforts. Today, Dave’s boasts over 300 locations, with ambitions to surpass 400 by year’s end and franchise rights sold for more than 1,000 spots across the U.S., Canada, the Middle East, and the U.K.

A Billion-Dollar Recipe

Roark Capital’s acquisition comes at a time when chicken-centric chains are enjoying a renaissance, thanks in part to the “Chicken Sandwich Wars” ignited by Popeyes in 2019. Dave’s Hot Chicken has ridden this wave, posting U.S. sales growth of 57% last year and capturing the attention of younger, spice-loving consumers. The brand’s social media following is as robust as its flavors, with millions of fans across Instagram and TikTok.

Notably, Dave’s isn’t just a darling of Wall Street—its roster of celebrity investors includes rapper Drake, who celebrates his October birthday by handing out free hot chicken sliders, as well as Samuel L. Jackson, Maria Shriver, Michael Strahan, and Boston Red Sox owner Tom Werner.

What’s Next? More Heat, More Locations

Despite the change in ownership, Dave’s Hot Chicken’s leadership—including Phelps and the founding friends—will stay on to ensure the brand’s signature blend of spice and swagger remains intact. Their focus: menu innovation, food quality, operational excellence, and, of course, rapid expansion.

Roark Capital’s restaurant empire is formidable, with assets under management topping $40 billion. Its portfolio includes Inspire Brands (parent to Arby’s, Dunkin’, Sonic, and Buffalo Wild Wings) and GoTo Foods (home to Auntie Anne’s, Carvel, and Cinnabon). The acquisition of Dave’s Hot Chicken is Roark’s first major restaurant deal since its $9.6 billion Subway buyout in 2023, further cementing its status as the kingmaker of franchised dining.

The Bottom Line

From parking lot upstart to billion-dollar brand, Dave’s Hot Chicken is poised to turn up the heat globally, fueled by Roark Capital’s deep pockets and franchising prowess. As CEO Bill Phelps put it, “Our entire organization is excited about the fit between Dave’s Hot Chicken and Roark, and we’re looking forward to continuing to blow our guests’ minds and unlocking growth and value for our franchise partners”.

With more than 155 new restaurants set to open this year alone, the world should brace itself: the chicken is only getting hotter.

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From Parking Lot to Powerhouse

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What’s Next? More Heat, More Locations

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