BrainChip Holdings Limited (ASX: BRN)
On December 16, 2024, BrainChip announced a significant licensing agreement with Frontgrade Gaisler, a provider of radiation-hardened microprocessors for space applications. Frontgrade has acquired BrainChip's Akida 1.0 Neuromorphic AI IP to integrate into its space-grade, fault-tolerant system-on-chip solutions. This partnership aims to deploy AI chips in space, providing real-time data stream processing with high power efficiency, accuracy, and low mass/volume. The agreement follows successful evaluations under the European Space Agency's (ESA) Discovery Open Space Innovation Platform and includes royalties for BrainChip, along with integration and software maintenance support for the licensed products.
Earlier, on December 10, 2024, BrainChip secured a $1.8 million contract with the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) under the SBIR program for radar signal processing using neuromorphic technology. This contract focuses on developing advanced algorithms based on BrainChip’s TENNs framework and optimizing them for Akida 2.0 hardware. The project, which enhances radar processing for size, weight, and power-constrained platforms like military and aerospace systems, demonstrates the potential of neuromorphic AI in critical applications.
Botanix Pharmaceuticals Limited (ASX: BOT)
Botanix Pharmaceuticals Limited (ASX: BOT) has marked a significant milestone with the first prescriptions of its Sofdra™ (sofpironium) topical gel being delivered to patients as part of its Patient Experience Program. This program, launched in collaboration with the International Hyperhidrosis Society, involves patients undergoing telemedicine consultations to receive diagnoses and, if appropriate, prescriptions. The pilot phase has been successful in testing the integration of Botanix’s systems, telehealth, and pharmacy operations, ensuring smooth logistics and operations before the broader commercial launch. The program continues through to the deployment of the sales force in late January 2025.
Sofdra™ targets hyperhidrosis, a condition marked by excessive sweating, and addresses a growing market valued at approximately $US$1.6 billion, expected to reach $US$2.8 billion by 2030. With the inventory and logistics infrastructure now in place, Botanix is preparing for the full commercial launch in Q1 2025, followed by an expanded digital marketing program in Q2. The company is on track to transition into a revenue-generating stage.
Etherstack Plc (ASX: ESK)
Etherstack Plc (ASX: ESK) reported solid progress in its half-year results. Revenue grew 14% YoY to $3.26M, driven by strong project revenues from defence contracts and growth in support revenues, partially offset by lower royalty income. EBITDA improved 21.7% to a loss of $177K, while operating cash flow turned positive at $869K, underpinned by a 58% rise in cash receipts to $4.58M. However, the statutory net loss widened to $1.49M from $1.15M in the prior period.
Management anticipates a stronger second half, supported by milestone deliveries from existing contracts. The company made notable progress on major projects, including the Australian Department of Defence contracts and AT&T FirstNet® collaboration, where revenues are expected in H2 2024. Etherstack also expanded its footprint in international markets for its MCX-IWF product, secured a seventh network delivery in Australia’s mining sector, and continued upgrading government digital radio networks. Overall, Etherstack’s strategic focus on defence and public safety, coupled with increasing project momentum, positions the company for a robust second half and potential long-term growth.
Everest Metals Corporation Limited (ASX: EMC)
Everest Metals Corporation Limited (ASX: EMC) has achieved a major milestone with its Mt Edon Critical Mineral Project, successfully recovering up to 91% rubidium during Phase 2 testing at the ECU Mineral Recovery Research Centre. The company utilized a direct extraction process to produce rubidium chloride, with lithium as a by-product. Ongoing testing aims to further optimize purification and recovery processes, while engineering scoping studies are set to assess the economic viability of the rubidium production process. These developments are vital for future patent applications and grant funding, as rubidium is a critical material in high-tech sectors such as defence and aerospace.
In addition, EMC has commenced gold processing at its Revere Gold Project in Western Australia, with a 10TPH Gekko Gravity Gold Processing Plant now operational. Over 8,000 tonnes of crushed gold-bearing material have been stockpiled, and initial concentrates have been assayed for fine-tuning the plant's performance. The company is also progressing towards its maiden JORC Mineral Resource Estimate and is preparing for a regional drilling campaign in early 2025.
Elevate Uranium Limited (ASX: EL8)
Elevate Uranium Limited (ASX: EL8) is progressing with its proprietary U-pgrade™ metallurgical beneficiation program, focusing on optimizing Koppies ore. This initiative is a pivotal step toward the design and commissioning of a U-pgrade™ demonstration plant, targeted for late CY2025. The plant will validate the technology’s efficiency, a critical milestone for scaling operations.
In Namibia, the company is advancing resource expansion and exploration across several key projects, including Hirabeb, Namib IV, Capri, and Marenica. Recent drilling at Hirabeb has delivered promising results near the maiden resource defined in October 2024, with highlights such as HIR1730: 1.5m at 292 ppm eU₃O₈ from 9.0m and HIR1751: 2.0m at 545 ppm eU₃O₈ from 25.5m. Exploration at Namib IV and Capri is progressing through phased greenfield and infill drilling, with maiden resource estimates expected in 2025.
Management plans to initiate the demonstration plant's design and construction in early CY2025. Combined with ongoing positive exploration results, Elevate Uranium is strategically positioned to drive innovation in uranium beneficiation and unlock significant resource potential within its Namibian assets.
Source: Company’s Report
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