Village Farms Intl (NASDAQ:VFF) Bolsa

Village Farms Intl

Village Farms International Inc owns and operates intensive agricultural greenhouse facilities in British Columbia and Texas, where it produces, markets and sells tomatoes, bell peppers and cucumbers. Its wholly owned subsidiary, Pure Sunfarms, is a vertically integrated licensed producer and supplier of cannabis products sold to other licensed providers and provincial governments across Canada and internationally. The Company's wholly owned subsidiary, Balanced Health, develops and sells, cannabidiol (CBD) based products including ingestible, edible and topical applications. The operating segments of the Company are VF Fresh (Produce), Cannabis Canada, Cannabis U.S., Clean Energy, and Leli . The company makes majority of its revenue from the Produce segment.

Village Farms International, Inc. - Common Shares

Village Farms International Inc

Sen.&nbsp;Elizabeth Warren&nbsp;(D-Mass.) has raised concerns about a major retirement plan provider&#8217;s intent to offer private equity and credit investments within 401(k) accounts.
What Happened: In a letter obtained <a href="https://www.axios.com/2025/06/18/elizabeth-warren-private-equity-empower-401k">by</a> Axios, Warren, the top Democrat on the Senate Banking Committee, addressed Empower's CEO, probing the company's rationale for introducing private equity into defined contribution plans.
She asked how the firm determined this move aligns with the best interests of its clients, requested details on investment allocations, and inquired about any legal advice the firm received.
Empower has not yet rolled out the program but has noted plans to include investor safeguards such as fee reductions and liquidity measures.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/06/46010639/elizabeth-warren-says-americans-deserve-lower-interest-rates-but-trumps-reckless-tariffs-stand-in-the-way-the-fed-is-getting-boxed-out">Elizabeth Warren Says Americans &#8216;Deserve&#8217; Lower Interest Rates, But Trump&#8217;s &#8216;Reckless&#8217; Tariffs Stand In The Way: &#8216;The Fed Is Getting Boxed Out&#8217;</a>
Why It Matters: Supporters of the shift argue it could offer everyday investors access to high-return opportunities traditionally reserved for wealthy individuals and institutions. The concept gained traction under the Trump administration as a way to democratize investment options.
However, critics like Warren argue it could jeopardize retirement savings due to private equity&#8217;s complex fee structures, limited transparency, and uneven performance record. She also highlighted emerging risks in the private credit market.
In March, reports emerged stating that <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/05/45536753/trump-eyes-retirement-overhaul-that-could-push-billions-from-401ks-into-high-stakes-private-equity-funds-report">President&nbsp;Donald Trump&nbsp;is considering a new executive order</a> that would push U.S. agencies to let private equity firms tap into the country&#8217;s huge&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/05/45298194/interested-in-the-new-super-funding-401k-opportunity-heres-how-to-know-if-you-qualify" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">401(k) savings</a>&nbsp;pool, which is worth almost $9 trillion. Private equity firms have <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/01/42955799/120-billion-flows-into-private-funds-as-private-equity-eyes-retirement-funds-in-deregulatory-push-under-trump">long pushed for regulatory changes</a> that would enable this.
Read Next: &#8216;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/macro-economic-events/25/06/46011540/unpredictable-trade-policy-environment-sinks-ceo-sentiment-to-pandemic-era-lows-in-business-roundtable-survey">Unpredictable Trade Policy Environment&#8217; Sinks CEO Sentiment To Pandemic-Era Lows In Business Roundtable Survey</a>
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Photo: OogImages/Shutterstock

Politics

Personal Finance

General

Elizabeth Warren Challenges Plan To Bring Private Equity Into 401(k)s, Citing Transparency And Fee Concerns

In a practical guide published by Ramsey Solutions, financial expert Dave Ramsey's team tells Americans what they need to know about Medicare.
What Happened: "What is Medicare and how does it work?" is a commonly asked question that reflects the anxiety many face when enrolling in Medicare. "So, why does this dang Medicare feel so confusing? Well, it was created by the government so that might be your first clue," Ramsey's <a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/insurance/what-is-medicare">guide</a> begins, moving onto a thorough explanation of how Medicare functions, what it covers, and when to enroll.
The Basics Explained: Medicare is a government-run health insurance program for Americans above 65 years old. It is divided into many parts:
Part A covers hospital stays, skilled nursing care, hospice, and some types of home care.
Part B includes doctor visits, outpatient care, home health services, and preventive screenings.
Part D helps cover prescription drug costs and certain vaccines.
Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans, sold by private companies, aid with paying costs not covered by Original Medicare.
The guide explains that seniors have two main options:
Original Medicare (Parts A and B, with optional Part D and Medigap): This offers flexibility to see any provider who accepts Medicare without a referral.
Medicare Advantage (Part C): A bundled plan sold by private insurers that often includes drug coverage, but restricts applicants to network providers and may require referrals.
Ramsey also highlights the difference between Medicare, a federal health insurance for those 65 and older, covering hospital stays, doctor visits, and outpatient care regardless of income, and Medicaid, which is a need-based aid program for low-income individuals, entailing services like nursing home care and helping with Medicare costs.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/topics/25/06/45991252/america-minted-over-1000-new-millionaires-a-day-in-2024-amid-stable-dollar-over-23-sp-500-rally-report">America Minted Over 1,000 New Millionaires A Day In 2024 Amid Stable Dollar, Over 23% S&amp;P 500 Rally: Report</a>
Why It Matters: Retirees often encounter steep health care costs and complicated choices. The confusing array of options can feel like "staring at a crossword puzzle in a different language," Ramsey's guide notes. It also mentions that that most people find Original Medicare alone insufficient and need to consider supplemental coverage.
Ramsey's guide is a useful read when the topic of Medicaid is making headlines courtesy of President Donald Trump's "big, beautiful bill." The <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/05/45558613/house-advances-trumps-sweeping-one-big-beautiful-bill-after-key-medicaid-tax-and-border-security-changes">version of the bill which passed the House</a> contains eligibility requirements that are projected to push <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/06/45716936/speaker-mike-johnson-says-4-8-million-wont-lose-medicaid-unless-they-choose-to-do-so-calls-gop-cuts-an-important-and-frankly-heroic-thing">4.8 million people outside the purview of Medicaid</a>.
On Monday, Senate Republicans presented their version of the bill, which includes policy changes pertaining to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/06/45967060/senate-republicans-unveil-trump-tax-and-health-plan-with-5-trillion-debt-ceiling-hike-tighter-medicaid-rules-in-the-big-beautiful-bill">semi-annual&nbsp;Medicaid eligibility redeterminations</a>.
Read Next: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/management/25/06/45968492/caller-says-retired-65-year-old-dad-wants-1000-a-month-ramsey-hosts-say-dads-arent-supposed-to-do-that">Caller Says Retired 65-Year-Old Dad Wants $1,000 A Month—Ramsey Hosts Say: &#8216;Dads Aren&#8217;t Supposed To Do That&#8217;</a>
Image via Shutterstock

News

Dave Ramsey Asks, 'Why Does This Dang Medicare Feel So Confusing?'—Blames Government, Then Offers Seniors A Clear Path Forward

Collaboration delivered a successful solution for the most complex known protein folding problem ever executed on a quantum computer
Kipu Quantum, a leader in application and hardware-specific quantum computing solutions, and IonQ (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IONQ#NYSE">IONQ</a>), a leading commercial quantum computing and networking company, proudly announced a record achievement: the successful solution of the most complex known protein folding problem ever executed on a quantum computer.
This joint effort is the largest known quantum computation of its kind to-date, and demonstrates the synergy between Kipu's innovative algorithmic framework and IonQ's state-of-the-art hardware.
In their latest study, the teams solved:
<ul>
<li>The largest known protein folding problem solved and executed on quantum hardware, comprising a 3D use case of up to 12 amino acids — an industry record on its own and a promising path towards commercial use of quantum computing for drug discovery.</li>
<li>All-to-all connected spin-glass problems (QUBO) and MAX-4-SAT problems (HUBO) using up to 36 qubits, obtaining optimal solutions in all instances — an industry record for dense digital quantum computing problems executed on quantum hardware.</li>
</ul>
All instances were executed on IonQ's Forte generation systems using Kipu Quantum's flagship BF-DCQO (Bias-Field Digitized Counterdiabatic Quantum Optimization) algorithm. The results advance the frontier of near-term quantum computing and have the potential to make a large impact on biology and drug development.
BF-DCQO provides a non-variational, iterative method that is both accurate and resource-efficient. This algorithm can achieve better solutions with fewer quantum operations in each subsequent iteration. This is especially critical for protein folding, where several long-range interactions are present, making the all-to-all connectivity of IonQ's trapped ion systems an important asset.

IONQ

IonQ And Kipu Quantum Solves Complex Protein Folding Problem On Quantum Computer, Advancing Drug Discovery Potential

Orion Group Holdings, Inc.&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ORN#NYSE">ORN</a>) ("Orion" or the "Company"), a leading specialty construction company, today announced new Marine and Concrete awards for a total value of approximately $100 million. In addition, Orion's Chief Executive Officer and General Counsel were honored with executive leadership awards.

Contracts

Orion Group Announces ~$100M In New Marine And Concrete Awards

Electra Battery Materials Corporation (NASDAQ:<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ELBM#NASDAQ">ELBM</a>, TSXV:<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ELBM#TSXV">ELBM</a>) ("Electra" or the "Company") announces the launch of an early works program at its cobalt refinery north of Toronto, reaffirming the Company's commitment to onshoring North America's critical minerals processing and building a resilient, domestic battery materials supply chain.
The early works program encompasses targeted site-level activities designed to prepare for the restart of full-scale construction. The initiative reflects growing momentum around the project, supported by strategic funding from both the U.S. and Canadian governments. The work, budgeted at approximately C$750,000, is particularly focused on advancing the solvent extraction facility.

ELBM

Electra Battery Materials Launches Early Works Program At Cobalt Refinery North Of Toronto, Reaffirming The Co's Commitment To Onshoring North America's Critical Minerals Processing And Building A Resilient, Domestic Battery Materials Supply Chain

Today, Triumph Group, Inc. (TRIUMPH) (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TGI#NYSE">TGI</a>) and Divergent Technologies, Inc. (Divergent) announced a partnership to qualify multiple critical manned aircraft components manufactured with the Divergent Adaptive Production System (DAPS&#x2122;), marking a significant milestone in bringing advanced digital manufacturing technologies into production for high-performance aerospace applications.
The components, which play a critical role in flight safety, are undergoing rigorous testing and validation protocols. Each will be certified by an empowered regulatory authority for use on a high-performance aircraft, validating the growing adoption of additive manufacturing for mission-critical aerospace applications. The speed that the partnership has demonstrated in requalifying the components further highlights the strength of Divergent's capabilities to resolve supply chain constraints posed by legacy manufacturing methods such as casting.
TRIUMPH's gearbox component design, engineering, prototyping, and qualification process leveraged Divergent's fully digital toolchain, ultimately delivering first-time-right, production-fidelity structures for testing and enabling a seamless transition to production. DAPS&#x2122; is an end-to-end engineering design and manufacturing system leveraging AI-driven design, industrial-rate additive manufacturing, and universal robotic assembly to deliver structures that are faster to develop, higher performance, and lower cost than their conventionally designed and manufactured alternatives. TRIUMPH is identifying applications across multiple product lines where TGI and Divergent can partner and implement these 4th gen manufacturing processes.

Triumph Group And Divergent Technologies Partner To Qualify Critical Manned Aircraft Components Using Advanced Digital Manufacturing And Additive Production System

Beta Bionics, Inc., a pioneering leader in the development of advanced diabetes management solutions, announced its intention to integrate its iLet Bionic Pancreas automated insulin delivery (AID) system with Abbott's future dual glucose-ketone sensor in the U.S.
The iLet represents a significant advancement in diabetes care as the first and only AID system that makes 100% of insulin dosing decisions automatically. With the iLet, people living with diabetes can achieve excellent clinical outcomes without the burden of carb counting&#x2A; or manual insulin correction calculations. The system currently supports Abbott's FreeStyle Libre&#xAE; 3 Plus continuous glucose monitoring sensor, and this future design further extends the collaboration between Beta Bionics and Abbott, reinforcing their shared commitment to bringing cutting-edge diabetes solutions to the market.

Biotech

BBNX

Beta Bionics To Integrate iLet Bionic Pancreas With Abbott's Upcoming Dual Glucose-Ketone Sensor, Advancing Automated Insulin Delivery In The U.S.

Descartes Systems Group (TSX:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DSG#TSX">DSG</a>) (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DSGX#NASDAQ">DSGX</a>), the global leader in uniting logistics-intensive businesses in commerce, announced that it has acquired PackageRoute, a leading provider of final-mile carrier solutions.
Based in the US, PackageRoute's mission is to simplify and optimize the daily operations of final-mile carriers. The company offers a mobile and web-based platform that provides real-time visibility into package deliveries, route optimization, and fleet management. PackageRoute's software integrates seamlessly with pickup and delivery data, enabling contractors and drivers to make better-informed decisions and operate more efficiently. &nbsp;&nbsp;
Descartes GroundCloud helps ensure seamless operations, end-to-end visibility, and standards of safety and compliance are met, including helping final-mile carriers comply with the various safety mandates of large transportation brands.
PackageRoute is headquartered in Sammamish, WA. Descartes acquired PackageRoute for approximately US $2 million, satisfied from cash on hand.

DSGX

TSX:DSG

Descartes Systems Group Acquires PackageRoute For ~$2M, Satisfied From Cash On Hand

The Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly on the verge of being sold for a blockbuster price. While the absolute returns on the investment sound incredible, analysts on X are quick to point out that it&#8217;s not nearly as impressive as it seems.
What Happened: On Wednesday, it was reported that the Buss family, longtime owners of the Los Angeles Lakers, is preparing to sell the franchise for a staggering $10 billion. That's a jaw-dropping leap from the $68 million the late Jerry Buss paid for it in 1979.
This represents a monumental 15,284% return. But viewed through the lens of long-term compounding, some analysts say that it's far from exceptional.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/06/46012786/chamath-palihapitiya-asks-if-he-should-launch-another-spac-70-say-no-users-warn-of-past-failures-no-crying-in-the-casino">Chamath Palihapitiya Asks If He Should Launch Another SPAC—70% Say No, Users Warn of Past Failures: &#8216;No Crying In The Casino!&#8217;</a>
Users point out that adjusted for inflation, Buss' 1979 investment is equivalent to about $280 million in today's dollars. That makes the real multiple closer to 36x. 
Over 45 years, this equates to a compounded annual return of just under 10.5%, roughly in line with the S&amp;P 500's historical average. And that's before taxes, reinvestment risks and the operational headaches of running an NBA franchise.
Popular X user, Trung Phan, compares the investment relative to the performance of the S&amp;P 500 over the years, concluding that a $68 million investment in the S&amp;P 500 in 1979 would now be worth $13 billion. &#8220;So the Buss family underperformed by $3B,&#8221; he says.
However, Phan acknowledges that the &#8220;infinite cultural clout&#8221; that this investment brought the family might be well worth it, referring to the Lakers&#8217; 11 Championship wins over the years, alongside the remarkable brand and pop-culture legacy that&#8217;s been cemented over the years.
<figure class="wp-block-embed aligncenter is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"> 
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Jerry Buss bought the LA Lakers, LA Kings and The Forum for $68m in 1979. The Buss family just sold a majority stake at a $10B valuation (Buss sold LA Kings in 1988 and The Forum in 2000). Since 1979, a $68m investment in S&amp;P 500 is now worth $13B. So, Buss family… <a href="https://t.co/Nq9wHnqpfU">pic.twitter.com/Nq9wHnqpfU</a>
&mdash; Trung Phan (@TrungTPhan) <a href="https://twitter.com/TrungTPhan/status/1935458198707913173?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 18, 2025</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
Why It Matters: While passive investing with an S&amp;P 500 index fund, tracked by the SPDR S&amp;P 500 ETF Trust (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SPY#NYSE">SPY</a>), would have outperformed one of the most popular NBA teams, here are a few other assets that have fared much better during this period. 
<figure class="wp-block-table"> 
<table class="has-fixed-layout">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Asset</td>
<td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">46-Year CAGR</td>
<td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Absolute Returns</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Los Angeles Lakers</td>
<td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">11.46%</td>
<td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">15,284%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">SPDR S&amp;P 500 ETF Trust (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SPY#NYSE">SPY</a>)</td>
<td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">9.39%</td>
<td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">5,446%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Fidelity NASDAQ Composite Index ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ONEQ#NASDAQ">ONEQ</a>) 
<div class="nwVKo" style="align-items: center; display: flex; color: rgb(31, 31, 31); font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: left; white-space-collapse: collapse;">
<div class="loJjTe" style="display: flex; min-width: 0px; gap: 8px;"></div>
</div>
</td>
<td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">11.74%</td>
<td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">16,467%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Gold Spot Price</td>
<td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">6.05%</td>
<td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">1,392%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Berkshire Hathaway Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BRK#NYSE">BRK</a>) </td>
<td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">18.17%</td>
<td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">216,723%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<figcaption class="wp-element-caption">It&#8217;s worth noting that ETFs that tracked index funds did not exist in 1979, and the returns showcased exclude dividends for each of the assets listed above.</figcaption></figure>
Read More: 
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/tax/25/06/46012776/brace-for-higher-healthcare-premiums-in-2026-as-insurers-blame-trumps-tariffs-in-filings-to-regulators-report">Brace For Higher Healthcare Premiums In 2026 As Insurers Blame Trump&#8217;s Tariffs In Filings To Regulators: Report</a></li>
</ul>
Image Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

Fidelity NASDAQmposite Index Fund ETF-Tracking NASDAQmposite Index

ONEQ

The Buss Family Is Set To Sell The Los Angeles Lakers For $10 Billion, After Buying It For Just $68 Million—Here's Why The 15,284% Return Is Far From A Slam Dunk

Malibu Boats, the world's best-selling wakeboat brand, is thrilled to announce the continuation of its long-standing partnership with <a href="https://www.gm.com/">General Motors</a>, naming <a href="https://www.chevrolet.com/">Chevrolet</a> as the Official Vehicle Brand of Malibu Boats. This partnership reinforces Malibu Boats' commitment to excellence and innovation, extending their exclusive collaboration with <a href="https://poweredsolutions.gm.com/marine">GM Marine</a> for the vertical integration of the <a href="https://www.malibuboats.com/discover-malibu/malibu-monsoon-engines">Monsoon Line of engines</a> at the Malibu Boats Factory in Loudon, TN.

MBUU

Malibu Boats Extends Partnership With General Motors, Naming Chevrolet As Official Vehicle Brand And Continuing GM Marine Engine Integration

<a href="https://cts.businesswire.com/ct/CT?id=smartlink&amp;url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.exxonmobil.com%2FCorporate%2Fdefault.aspx&amp;esheet=54279088&amp;newsitemid=20250618572574&amp;lan=en-US&amp;anchor=Exxon+Mobil+Corporation&amp;index=1&amp;md5=d66fd08baf0a7accfca3f32aca447a69">Exxon Mobil Corporation</a> (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XOM#NYSE">XOM</a>) has received notice of an unsolicited mini-tender offer by TRC Capital Investment Corporation to purchase up to 1 million shares of ExxonMobil common stock, which represents approximately 0.023 percent of the shares outstanding as of the June 9, 2025 offer date.
TRC's offer of $100 per ExxonMobil share is 4.1% below the closing price on June 6, 2025, on the New York Stock Exchange, the last trading day prior to opening of the offer. It is also more than 10% below its closing price yesterday.
ExxonMobil recommends that stockholders do not tender their shares in response to TRC's offer because the offer has a conditional market price for ExxonMobil's shares of $99.06 each and is subject to numerous other conditions. ExxonMobil is not affiliated or associated in any way with TRC, its mini-tender offer, or the offer documentation.
TRC has made similar mini-tender offers for shares of other companies. Mini-tender offers seek to acquire less than 5 percent of a company's shares outstanding, thereby avoiding many disclosure and procedural requirements of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) that apply to offers for more than 5 percent of a company's shares outstanding. As a result, mini-tender offers do not provide investors with the same level of protections as provided by larger tender offers under U.S. securities laws.

Management

Exxon Mobil Receives Unsolicited Mini-Tender Offer From TRC Capital To Purchase Up To 1M Shares At $100 Each; ExxonMobil Recommends That Stockholders Do Not Tender Their Shares In Response To TRC's Offer

UL Solutions' new battery containment enclosure and micromobility charging equipment certification programs help address growing concerns and incidents around lithium-ion battery safety risks and thermal runaway events.
UL Solutions (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ULS#NYSE">ULS</a>), a global leader in applied safety science, today announced its new testing and certification program for battery containment enclosures, including the battery charging or storage cabinets that are becoming more common on city sidewalks and in apartment buildings to address growing concerns around hazards of lithium-ion batteries for e-bikes.
Safety-certified battery containment enclosures are growing in popularity for use with e-bikes and other micromobility products, and are supported by fire departments, including the Fire Department of the City of New York (FDNY), for their ability to contain fire and other hazards associated with thermal runaway. UL Solutions also launched services for micromobility charging equipment that can further help mitigate safety risks.
Battery containment enclosures often resemble cabinets and are designed with safety features to contain battery thermal runaway fires and gases. They can be used to store and charge batteries, such as e-bike or power tool batteries, and help protect people around them if a thermal runaway event or battery fire occurs despite following proper battery maintenance and usage instructions from the manufacturer.

UL Solutions Launches Certification Programs For Battery Containment Enclosures And Micromobility Charging Equipment To Enhance Lithium-Ion Battery Safety And Prevent Thermal Runaway

Reliance Global Group, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RELI#NASDAQ">RELI</a>) ("Reliance," "we," "us," "our" or the "Company"), today announced that it has entered into definitive agreements for the issuance and sale of an aggregate of 1,488,096 shares of its common stock (or pre-funded warrants in lieu thereof) and short-term warrants to purchase up to an aggregate of 2,976,192 shares of common stock at a purchase price of $1.68 per share (or per pre-funded warrant in lieu thereof) and accompanying short-term warrants in a private placement priced at-the-market under Nasdaq rules. The short-term warrants will be exercisable immediately upon issuance at an exercise price of $1.43 per share and will expire two years from the effective date of the Resale Registration Statement (as defined below). The offering is expected to close on or about June 20, 2025, subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions.&nbsp;
H.C. Wainwright &amp; Co. is acting as the exclusive placement agent for the offering.&nbsp;
The aggregate gross proceeds to the Company from the private placement is expected to be approximately $2.5 million, before deducting placement agent fees and other offering expenses payable by the Company. The potential additional gross proceeds to the Company from the short-term warrants, if fully-exercised on a cash basis, will be approximately $4.25 million. No assurance can be given that any of such short-term warrants will be exercised. The Company intends to use the net proceeds from the offering for working capital and general corporate purposes.

Offerings

RELI

Reliance Global Group Announces Definitive Agreements For Issuance Of 1.49M Shares And 2.98M Short-Term Warrants At $1.68 Per Share In Private Placement, Expected To Raise $2.5M Plus Potential $4.25M From Warrant Exercises

Jury concludes J&amp;J concealed the danger of its asbestos-laced talcum powder that caused woman's cancer
A Suffolk County jury has awarded $8 million in favor of Janice Paluzzi, a Massachusetts woman who developed mesothelioma after decades of using Johnson &amp; Johnson's (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JNJ#NYSE">JNJ</a>) talcum powder products.
The jury found the pharmaceutical giant liable for negligence and breach of warranty, concluding that the company's asbestos-contaminated talcum powder products caused Paluzzi's terminal cancer.
During the trial, the <a href="https://cts.businesswire.com/ct/CT?id=smartlink&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fdobslegal.com%2F&amp;esheet=54279382&amp;newsitemid=20250618099844&amp;lan=en-US&amp;anchor=Dean+Omar+Branham+Shirley&amp;index=1&amp;md5=d9fd59b911b8494899fa30004c35d027">Dean Omar Branham Shirley</a> legal team, which represented Ms. Paluzzi, presented extensive evidence showing that Johnson &amp; Johnson had internal knowledge of asbestos in its talc supply dating back decades yet continued to market the products as safe for daily use.
J&amp;J ceased production and sale of all products containing talc in the United States in 2020. Ms. Paluzzi, a lifelong user of the company's Baby Powder on herself and her children, was diagnosed with mesothelioma in 2021.

Legal

Johnson & Johnson Found Liable In Talc Cancer Case; Jury Awards $8M To Massachusetts Resident

Investar Holding Corporation (the "Company") (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ISTR#NASDAQ">ISTR</a>), the holding company of Investar Bank, National Association (the "Bank"), declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.11 per share to holders of the Company's common stock. The dividend is payable on July 31, 2025 to shareholders of record as of June 30, 2025. This represents a 5% increase in the dividend per share compared to the prior quarter and is the 47th quarterly dividend paid by the Company, which follows an uninterrupted 11 quarterly cash dividends paid by the Bank.

Dividends

ISTR

Investar Holding Corp Increases Quarterly Cash Dividend From $0.10 To $0.11 Per Share

General Dynamics Electric Boat, a business unit of General Dynamics (NYSE:&nbsp;GD), announced today it has been awarded a $987 million contract modification to a previously awarded contract supporting submarine production. This modification is for additional Component Development, Class Lead Yard Support (CLYS), and Submarine Industrial Base (SIB) supplier development enhancements, as detailed in the U.S. Department of Defense <a href="https://c212.net/c/link/?t=0&amp;l=en&amp;o=4452671-1&amp;h=3622296494&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.defense.gov%2FNews%2FContracts%2FContract%2FArticle%2F4221136%2F&amp;a=contract+award">contract award</a>.

General Dynamics Electric Boat Secures $987M Contract Modification To Boost Submarine Production And Supplier Development

Franco-Nevada Corporation ("Franco-Nevada") (TSX:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FNV#TSX">FNV</a>) (NYSE:&nbsp;FNV) provides an update regarding its arbitration proceeding related to the Cobre Panama mine. Following engagement with the Government of Panama's legal counsel, Franco-Nevada has agreed today to suspend its arbitration proceeding. Franco-Nevada had previously filed a request for arbitration under the Canada-Panama Free Trade Agreement to the International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes on June 27, 2024.

TSX:FNV

Franco-Nevada Suspends Arbitration Against Panama Over Cobre Panama Mine Following Government Engagement

No Shareholder Action Required at This Time
GMS Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GMS#NYSE">GMS</a>) (the "Company"), a leading North American specialty building products distributor, confirmed that it has received an unsolicited proposal from QXO, Inc. ("QXO") to acquire all outstanding shares of GMS for $95.20 per share in cash.
Consistent with its fiduciary duties and in consultation with its independent legal and financial advisors, the GMS Board of Directors will carefully review and evaluate the unsolicited proposal to determine the course of action that it believes is in the best interests of the Company and all GMS shareholders.
GMS does not intend to comment further on QXO's unsolicited proposal until the Board has completed its review. GMS shareholders do not need to take any action at this time.

GMS Confirms Receipt Of $95.20 Per Share Unsolicited Buyout Proposal From QXO

Annovis Bio, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ANVS#NYSE">ANVS</a>) ("Annovis" or the "Company"), a late-stage clinical drug platform company pioneering transformative therapies for neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD), today announced it received notification (the "Acceptance Letter") from the New York Stock Exchange ("NYSE") that the NYSE has accepted the Company's previously-submitted plan (the "Plan") to regain compliance with the NYSE's continued listing standards relating to minimum market capitalization and stockholders' equity.
In the Acceptance Letter, the NYSE granted the Company an 18-month period from the Company's receipt of the NYSE's Notice of Noncompliance dated March 26, 2025 (the "Plan Period") to regain compliance with the continued listing standards. As part of the Plan, the Company is required to provide the NYSE quarterly updates regarding its progress towards the goals and initiatives in the Plan.
The Company expects its stock will continue to be listed on the NYSE during the Plan Period, subject to the Company adherence to the Plan and compliance with other applicable NYSE continued listing standards. The Company's receipt of such notification from the NYSE does not affect the Company's business, operations or reporting requirements with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.

ANVS

Annovis Bio Announces It Received NYSE Acceptance Letter Granting The Co 18-Month Period To Maintain Listing

More than 2 million acres of public land across 11 states could go up for sale under the current version of the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/06/45967060/senate-republicans-unveil-trump-tax-and-health-plan-with-5-trillion-debt-ceiling-hike-tighter-medicaid-rules-in-the-big-beautiful-bill">Republican budget bill</a>. The proposal has drawn criticism from conservation groups, hunting organizations, local officials and some conservative leaders too.
What Happened: Sen. Mike Lee (R-Utah), who leads the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, included a provision to the draft budget bill that would authorize the sale of federal lands. According <a href="https://thehill.com/homenews/nexstar_media_wire/5358034-proposed-sale-of-millions-of-acres-of-public-land-under-gop-budget-bill-prompts-backlash/">to</a> The Hill, the proposal reflects a long-standing goal among Western conservatives to institute more local control over federal lands.
Though national parks and designated wilderness areas would be excluded, Lee said the targeted parcels are "isolated" and more suited for housing and infrastructure. "Washington has proven time and again it can't manage this land. This bill puts it in better hands," Lee argued in a video posted by his office.
Lee has faced opposition from within his own party, and a similar land sale provision was already rejected in the House.
Rep. Ryan Zinke&nbsp;(R-Mont.)&nbsp;spearheaded the effort to remove the land sale provision from the House version, declaring himself a "hard no" on such proposals.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/treasuries/25/06/46012056/peter-schiff-predicts-worse-financial-crisis-than-2008-as-fed-holds-rates-the-solution-involves-much-higher-interest-rates-as-years-of-easy-money-trigger-stagflation-and-investor-exodus">Peter Schiff Predicts &#8216;Worse Financial Crisis Than 2008&#8217; As Fed Holds Rates: &#8216;The Solution Involves Much Higher Interest Rates&#8217; As Years of Easy Money Trigger Stagflation And Investor Exodus</a>
Why It Matters: As per The Wilderness Society's estimates, over 250 million acres could be vulnerable under this policy. Michael Carroll of The Wilderness Society called the move "a betrayal of future generations." Sen. Martin Heinrich&nbsp;(D-NM), the Senate energy committee's ranking Democrat, warned that the outcome would be the loss of public access to cherished outdoor spaces, with negligible benefit to housing supply.
Environmental advocate Benji Backer called the proposal a "loser issue," in a social media post, adding, "I've never seen so many conservatives AND liberals stand together as I've seen in opposition of this proposed mass sale of public lands."
A recent YouGov poll showed that 71% of Americans do not agree with such land sales, including majorities of both Trump and Harris voters.
In March, the Trump administration reportedly set up a task force to identify suitable sections from 650 million acres of federal land to develop <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/03/44376829/trump-administration-plans-to-construct-nearly-4-million-affordable-homes-on-federal-land">new housing to address the nationwide shortage.</a> In the same month, President Donald Trump also signed an executive order to expand logging on <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/03/44221143/horrific-move-to-loot-our-public-lands-trump-signs-executive-order-to-clear-cut-280m-acres-of-national-fores">280 million acres of federal land</a>, bypassing environmental safeguards and aiming to boost timber sales.

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