Author: Mahrukh Rehan

Gracell Biotechnologies Inc. (GRCL) experienced a decline of 4.88% in the premarket following the announcement of the Senior Management Team Share Purchase Plan. However, the last trading session concluded at $7.79 with an incline of 22.1%.

Senior Management Team Shares Purchase Plan – What’s up?

On 23^rd November 2021, GRCL announced that Dr. William (Wei) Cao, Dr. Yili Kevin Xie, and Dr. Martina A. Sersch informed the Company of their plan to acquire the Company’s American depositary shares on the marketplace for up to $2 million in the following three months using personal finances.

Third Quarter 2021 results by GRCL – How’s the quarter been?

GRCL announced third quarter 2021 results on 15^th November 2021. Research and development costs came out to be US$13.7 million for the three months ending September 30, 2021, compared to RMB40.0 million in the prior-year period. Moreover, labor expenditures increased by RMB16.3 million i.e., US$2.5 million as a result of the company’s continued development.

Administrative costs rose to US$6.7 million for the three months ending September 30, 2021. This rise was mostly due to an increase in share-based compensation expenditures of RMB20.5 million (US$3.2 million). Lastly, the foreign exchange loss was equivalent to US$0.1 million, compared to RMB2.2 million for the same time last year.

Now what?

This quarter, GRCL continued to execute outstanding research and clinical execution throughout the pipeline, extending clinical programs as well as advancing unique preclinical product candidates to the clinical stage.

In addition, the T cell treatments, both autologous and allogeneic, are aimed to deliver distinct methods with considerable improvements in manufacturing, production, efficacy, and cost. The company is continuing to focus on establishing strong clinical foundations across the lead projects, developing R&D activities and new preclinical candidates, and improving the manufacturing capabilities in order to bring lower-cost, more accessible treatments to patients.

Second Quarter 2021 Results by GRCL – What happened?

GRCL reported second-quarter 2021 results on 17^th August 2021. The research & development costs came out to be RMB65.3 million (US$10.1 million) in the three months ending June 30, 2021. Due to the company’s continued development, labor expenditures increased by RMB8.2 million (US$1.3 million). Moreover, administrative costs grew up to $4.7 million. This rise was mostly due to a US$1.2 million increase in share-based compensation expenditures. Lastly, net loss was US$14.9 million, compared to RMB63.1 million for the same period the previous year.

What’s up?

The company is working to build on strong success as it reaches the second half of 2021. Moreover, they want to enroll interesting early pipeline prospects in clinical trials in China in the coming months of this year. Not only this, but their continued manufacturing relationship with Lonza will enable a U.S. IND filing for FasTCAR candidate GC012F in the first half of 2022, allowing them to expand for R&D capabilities in the United States.

Also, GRCL aims to increase the manufacturing capacity by establishing a second plant in Suzhou, China. GRCL will be closer to offering accessible and highly effective therapies for patients with a larger spectrum of cancers as a result of these clinical and operational advancements.

SeqLL Inc. (SQL) saw a push of 10.89% in the premarket. However, the last trading session closed at $2.48 with an increase of 1.22%.

Coronary Artery Disease Detection & SQL

On 27^th September 2021, it was announced that in the September edition of BMC Medical Genomics, SQL’s tSMS platform was used to publish a peer-reviewed paper on a new blood-based RNA Sequencing approach to diagnose Coronary Artery Disease (CAD). Furthermore, coronary angiography is a type of imaging that detects reduced blood flow in the heart’s main arteries. The experts will use it to diagnose CAD.

Despite clinical signs, up to 40% of the 1 million cardiac catheterizations conducted in the United States result in a “no blockage” test. Moreover, Dr. McCaffrey’s research employed a cutting-edge sequencing technology. Lastly, this will help find an RNA signature in the entire blood of CAD patients who had acquired diagnoses via angiographies.

Now what?

Autoimmunity may play a substantial role in CAD. Based on the gene expression pattern in the findings, it appears that the patient’s immune system becomes overwhelmed, resulting in an inappropriate attack on their own arteries.”

This immunological relationship also extends to COVID-19 since patients have reported cardiac problems after contracting the virus. Last but not least, the findings surpassed the standard clinical prediction model for coronary artery disease and blood testing.

Publication of a New Single-Cell Epitranscriptomic Method – What’s it?

On 23^rd September 2021, it was announced that in the August edition of Cell Report Methods, SQL’s platform was used to publish a new microscopy-based epitranscriptomic approach. SQL seems pleased with this team’s efforts and looks forward to the future work that this system will enable.

Moreover, researchers will be able to offer insights into complicated biological processes beyond what existing approaches can show by using this epitranscriptomic method to characterize single cells. SQL is looking forward to making a lot of fresh discoveries on this new platform.

About SQL

Firstly, SQL is a biological sciences instruments and research services firm in the early stages of development. Secondly, it focuses on the creation of scientific assets and innovative property rights in a variety of “omics” domains. Thirdly, SQL plans to use its expert knowledge in True Single Molecule Sequencing technology. Lastly, this helps researchers and practitioners make significant contributions to science and technology.

Q&K International Group Limited (QK) saw a push of 8.05% in the premarket. However, the last trading session concluded at $0.5553 with an incline of 0.96%.

Disposal of WFOE

QK announced the disposal of WFOE on 26^th October 2021. The Disposal was carried out in order to redirect the Company’s business resources to its subsidiaries in China, which manage higher-quality rental units. The Company no longer operates under a variable interest entity as a result of the Disposal.

Now what?

The Disposal will allow the company to focus its energies on providing higher-quality rental flats in the future. With this new beginning, QK will continue its efforts in the long-term apartment business.

Change in Board of Directors

On 22^nd April 2021, QK announced that Mr. Xiao quit the job for personal reasons and does not have any issues with the company. The board of directors of the company wishes him well in his future pursuits and thanks to him for his services.

Changes to Directors and Senior Management – What’s new?

On 28^th January 2021, QK reported changes to its board of directors, senior leadership team, and shareholders. Mr. Guangjie Jin, Ms. Qiong Hong, Mr. Zhaochun Zheng, Ms. Kaiyu Yao, and Mr. Wing Cheung Ryan have resigned from different positions in the company. However, Q&K’s director, chief operating officer, and vice president, Mr. Chengcai Qu, has now been appointed.

So what?

The COVID-19 outbreak wreaked havoc on China’s apartment rental industry, posing significant hurdles for the company. QK got through this tough time by optimizing the business model, improving operating performance, divesting underperforming assets, and discovering commercial opportunities. This has only been possible because of the hard work of the management and employees, as well as support from many of the landlords, tenants, creditors, and other business associates, and favorable legislation such as tax reliefs.

In addition, the apartment rental market and business have been progressively rebounding after China’s COVID-19 outbreak was brought under control. QK finalized the purchase of lease contracts with landlords and renters, as well as associated fixtures, equipment, and other assets, from another rental service firm and its affiliates in the fiscal year ended September 30, 2020, which greatly expanded the asset portfolio.

The company will continue to develop organically and explore further consolidation opportunities by purchasing high-quality assets since the demand for rental flats remains one of China’s most inelastic wants. Lastly, the new management team will boost the capacity to execute plans and continue to focus on growing the business.

Isoray, Inc. (ISR) saw a push of 4.21% in aftermarket and stands at $0.4897. However, the last trading session concluded at $0.4699 with an increase of 1.89%.

First Quarter Fiscal 2022 Financial Results – Let’s see what happened?

ISR reported first-quarter results on 10^th November 2021. The revenue increased by 8% to $2.56 million in the first quarter of fiscal 2022, compared to $2.38 million in the prior year’s similar period. In comparison to the first quarter of fiscal 2021, the company’s core prostate brachytherapy revenue climbed by 4%. Moreover, in the first quarter, total operational expenditures grew by 69 percent to $3.30 million, $1.96 million more than the previous year. Furthermore, the total research and development costs climbed by 125 percent. Lastly, the net loss was $2.24 million, compared to a net loss of $0.71 million in the corresponding prior-year period.

What’s up?

The outlook for the core prostate brachytherapy business, which increased year over year this quarter, is encouraging. As the research pipeline develops, ISR is taking crucial actions to support the organization’s scaling in preparation for future growth. The steps will be taken in both our core prostate brachytherapy market and sectors connected to difficult-to-treat malignancies.

Isoray’s Cesium-131 Recognition

On 28^th September 2021, it was announced that in its newly revised consensus statement on the subject of low dose rate (LDR) prostate brachytherapy, the American Brachytherapy Society (ABS) has acknowledged Isoray’s Cesium-131. Cesium-131 seeds were not accessible as a treatment until 2004, hence long-term results from Cesium-131 prostate brachytherapy seeds have just recently been available. Lastly, ABS does not rate or recommend any particular treatment approach. Instead, it tries to focus on analyzing data and offering insight into studies around the use of brachytherapy in the treatment of metastatic and benign illnesses.

Fourth Quarter Results in 2021

ISR reported fourth-quarter results on 21^st September 2021. Revenue increased 19 percent to $2.71 million in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2021. When compared to the fiscal fourth quarter of 2020, the Company’s core prostate brachytherapy revenue increased by 5%. Moreover, prostate brachytherapy accounted for 74 percent of overall revenue in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2021, down from 84 percent the year before.

The total operating expenditures climbed by 8% to $2.44 million, $2.26 million more than the prior year’s comparable period. In comparison to the previous year’s similar quarter, total research and development costs climbed by 45 percent. Furthermore, the sales and marketing costs were down 4%. When compared to the prior year’s comparable quarter, the decreases in sales and marketing expenditures drove the lower incentive compensation.

Clarus Therapeutics Holdings, Inc. (CRXT) saw a decrease of 14.46% in the aftermarket. However, the last trading session closed at $5.74 with an incline of 42.96%.

Third Quarter 2021 Results Revealed by CRXT!

CRXT reported third-quarter 2021 results on 18^th November 2021. The report issued by the company says that total sales climbed to $4.3 million in the third quarter of 2021. Moreover, the total sales came out to be $9.4 million for the nine months ending September 30, 2021, and the gross margin for the third quarter of 2021 was 88.1 percent, compared to 88.4 percent the previous year.

Research and development expenses of CRXT in the third quarter of 2021 fell by 11.3 percent to $1.3 million from $1.4 million the previous year. This hints towards the lower consultancy costs offset by higher licensing revenues. Clinical expenditures linked with principal commercial asset and license payments grew 9.8% to $3.1 million. Lastly, the company reported a net loss of $36.3 million, compared to a net loss of $4.1 million for the same period the previous year.

Now what?

The company has reached several great milestones this quarter. With excellent feedback from both patients and clinicians, JATENZO continues to expand in prescriptions. CRXT is still excited and hopeful as the team works to spread the word about JATENZO. It is the only FDA-approved oral softgel with variable dosage choices in the testosterone replacement treatment market, by educating doctors and patients about its benefits.

In September, CRXT also announced the inclusion of a novel technology licensed from McGill University. It will potentially treat uncommon illnesses related to CoQ10 deficits to our internal pipeline. This indicates that CRXT is continuing to diversify and develop its internal pipeline.

Exclusive Licensing Agreement by CRXT – Is there any update?

CRXT announced on 16^th September 2021 that it has signed an agreement to produce and market McGill’s patented technology developed to treat illnesses related to CoQ10 deficiency in humans. The inner membrane of mitochondria, a cellular organelle whose primary purpose is to provide chemical energy for the body, produces CoQ10.

Moreover, CoQ10 deficiency can cause serious problems with the brain, nerves, kidneys, heart, GI tract, and muscles. Because oral CoQ10 does not promote intracellular CoQ10 uptake, it is mainly useless. Last but not the least, McGill has discovered a way to significantly boost this intake.

What’s up?

This cooperation with McGill broadens CRXT’s emphasis beyond androgen-based therapies to a metabolic therapy for CoQ10 deficits. Knowing the potential significance of McGill’s finding in addressing this critical, unmet medical need is a fantastic opportunity, and the company is eager to get started.

Guess’, Inc. (GES) inclines high to 9.15% in the aftermarket following the announcement of third-quarter results in 2021. However, the last trading session ended at $21.3 with a decrease of 4.61%.

Third Quarter Results 2021 – Were the results up to the mark?

GES announced third-quarter results 2021 on 23^rd November 2021. The total net revenue climbed 4.4 percent to $643.1 million in the third quarter of fiscal 2022, compared to $615.9 million in the third quarter of fiscal 2020. Moreover, the net sales climbed by 2.1 percent in constant currency. Not only this, but the company released the GAAP net earnings of $29.9 million with a 140.5% increase. Lastly, the GAAP earnings from operations also rose by about 190.0 percent to $65.7 million.

How was the GES’s third quarter?

The company is really delighted with the results this quarter, which well surpassed the revenue and profits objectives. The quarterly revenues climbed 13% year over year and 4% compared to the pre-pandemic third quarter of the fiscal year 2020. Moreover, the European Wholesale, Americas Retail, and Licensing businesses all outperformed expectations, delivering solid top-and bottom-line results.

Overall, GES achieved a 10% operating margin in the quarter. This owed to good gross margin improvement as a consequence of lesser promotional activity and stronger IMUs.

Quality Control Program by GES

On 5^th October 2021, GES announced that it has chosen QIMAone to automate its quality assurance system throughout its entire global supply chain. QIMAone is a supplier relationship management system that links brands and providers. This helps in quality control and assurance data to reduce downtime, improve visibility, and drive continuous improvement. Guess is ensuring that all of its goods are properly sourced and manufactured using quality control best practices by implementing QIMAone.

GES, being a worldwide brand, obtains clothing from hundreds of suppliers in more than 30 countries across Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas. Guess does not own its own factories; instead, it collaborates with manufacturers and designers throughout the world to provide a finished product. To retain end-to-end visibility throughout its supplier network under this operational model, the organization must stay linked to its sourcing footprint.

Now what?

In today’s changing supply chain world, integrated, intelligent inspection skills are critical for survival. QIMAone enables organizations like GES to digitally align all stakeholders on a consistent quality control framework. GES may utilize QIMAone to book local inspectors or request manufacturers to do self-inspections with just one click now that they have real-time data on their suppliers. As a consequence, QIMAone is assisting Guess in improving the visibility and agility of its supply chain.

Ambow Education Holding Ltd. (AMBO) experienced a decline of 10.26% in the aftermarket. However, the last trading session closed at $1.17 with an incline of 3.57%.

AMBO Partnership with Universities and Industry Leaders

On 17^th November 2021, AMBO announced that it has signed an agreement with the North China University of Technology, China Advanced Semiconductor Industry Innovation Alliance (CASA), and H3C Technologies Co., Ltd. (H3C). AMBO will collaborate with the above groups to connect universities, businesses, and industry experts. This is done in order to create a new IC talent ecosystem. Moreover, Ambow will also conduct project, practice, and theory training, as well as co-developed disciplines.

What’s next?

AMBO has dedicated itself to integrating local and foreign industrial needs into China’s larger educational system for the past 21 years. The company has helped dozens of schools and institutions strengthen their talent training skills across different disciplines.

This resulted in strong talent pipelines for a variety of businesses, starting with the ground-breaking master’s degree program in software engineering. Last but not least, the company is excited to collaborate with colleges and industry partners to create a new IC talent ecosystem by using extensive knowledge and resources.

China Integrated Circuit Industry Talent Development Report 2020-2021 with AMBO

AMBO announced the Release of the Co-Produced “China Integrated Circuit Industry Talent Development Report 2020-2021” on 28^th October 2021. China Center for Information Industry Development (CCID) and the China Semiconductor Industry Association (CSIA) researched and compiled the report together. However, AMBO has also helped organize the Semiconductor Intelligence Conference for the past four years, utilizing its capabilities and resources to encourage the establishment of a constructive environment for talent development in the integrated circuits sector.

So what?

AMBO is devoted to improving and perfecting the talent nurturing model for the integrated circuits sector as a pioneer of new technologies and new educational methodologies. In addition, the company will aggressively adapt to the sector’s upgrading requirements, create a talent cultivation ecosystem and public service platform based on important industry ties, and help the industry expand holistically.

Second Quarter 2021 Financial Results – Was the quarter strong?

AMBO released second-quarter 2021 results on 20^th September 2021. Net revenues grew 10.8% to US$ 26.7 million in the second quarter of 2021. The gain was mostly attributable to the company’s complete recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic’s effects. Moreover, the gross profit grew by 25.7 percent.

The gross profit margin for the second quarter of 2020 was 44.1 percent, up from 38.8 percent in the first quarter. Gross profit and margin increased primarily due to greater net sales growth over the period. Furthermore, operating costs fell to US$ 8.6 million in the second quarter of 2021.

Now what?

The company continued to focus on technology-driven educational and career enhancement services in the second quarter of 2021. This encompasses the national strategy of enhancing collaboration and cooperation and coordinated development across education. In the second quarter, AMBO is happy to announce strong financial results with net sales up 10.8% year over year.