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Fed Watch: Key Bullish Patterns in the S&P 500, Utilities, and Crypto

Stock 6 Mins Read

The S&P 500 ($SPX) wrapped up Tuesday just below its intraday midpoint and posted one of the narrowest ranges we’ve seen in the past two months. That’s a clear sign traders are reluctant to take major bets ahead of Wednesday’s 2:00 PM ET Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) decision.

And honestly, this caution makes sense. If we look back at how the stock market has reacted following the first two FOMC meetings of 2025, there has been a mix of hesitation and sharp moves.

Below is an updated chart marking each FOMC date since 2024 alongside the S&P 500. After the late January meeting, the S&P 500 zig-zagged to marginal new highs over the next two weeks before the first of two sharp down legs unfolded.

FIGURE 1. FOMC DATES SINCE 2024.

Coincidence or not, the S&P 500 is trading at nearly the same price level now, six weeks later, as it was back then. So, how close are today’s prices compared to the close on March 18, the day before the last Fed meeting?

This close (see chart below):

FIGURE 2. THE S&P 500 IS TRADING VERY CLOSE TO LAST FOMC MEETING LEVELS.

The difference is that the index has been rallying for four weeks, starting from the pivot low on April 7, a month ago today. In March, the S&P 500 was trying to bounce after topping four weeks earlier on February 19. That bounce continued for a few more days before dominant down-trending price action took over.

But over the last few weeks, the dominant trend is definitely higher. So the big question now is: can this mini uptrend resume after this pause?

A Short-Term Setup to Watch

A few days ago, the 14-period relative strength index (RSI) on the two-hour chart grazed the 70-overbought level for the first time since late January (see chart below). Yes, it took a nearly 18% rally in a very short time frame for it to finally happen, but remember, the indicator was coming off its lowest level since the COVID lows. Modest 3–5% pops were enough to trigger overbought readings for much of 2024. Not this time.

As you know, overbought conditions never persist, especially in very short timeframes like this. However, if this rally has anything left in the tank, we’ll see the indicator hit overbought again soon. That may not happen in the next day or two, but if the market reacts negatively to today’s news, but a bid returns soon after, it could keep some of the bullish patterns we’ve been tracking in play. That’s just one scenario, but one we’ll be closely watching.

FIGURE 3. TWO-HOUR CHART OF THE S&P 500.

Bullish Patterns Still Intact

There are two bullish pattern breakouts still in play on the S&P 500 chart:

And barring a very extreme and negative reaction, the patterns will stay alive today, as well.

FIGURE 4. INVERSE HEAD-AND-SHOULDERS AND CUP WITH HANDLE PATTERNS.

FIGURE 5. INVERSE HEAD-AND-SHOULDERS PATTERN IN THE S&P 500.

FIGURE 6. CUP WITH HANDLE PATTERN IN THE S&P 500.

A Bright Spot: Utilities

The Utilities Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLU) was the first sector ETF (and one of the first of all the ETFs we track) to notch a new 50-day high, which it hit on Tuesday. On the weekly chart, it’s clear the ETF is now trying to leverage a multi-month bottoming formation.

This is especially notable because the formation has developed above two bullish pattern breakouts from 2024. Ironically, XLU’s first major breakout of 2024 happened around this time last year (late April), which set the stage for an extremely strong run, at least through late November.

The current snapback is important to watch, given how well XLU has recently capitalized on bullish breakouts. Some upside follow-through from here would also put the former highs back in the crosshairs.

FIGURE 7. WEEKLY CHART OF UTILITIES SELECT SECTOR SPDR (XLU).

Invesco Solar (TAN) Still Has Work to Do

Invesco Solar ETF (TAN) has been rallying since the April lows, much like nearly every ETF we track. On the daily chart, it’s been trying to leverage a bullish cup and handle pattern, a formation we’ve also seen emerge in many other areas. It’s coming off an extremely oversold condition, with its 14-week RSI undercutting 30 for just the third time since 2021. So TAN could see some additional upside from here.

But the ETF will need to do much more to materially improve its long-term technical picture. Nearly every rally has stalled near the key weekly moving averages, all of which continue to slope lower. Selling strength in TAN has been a highly effective strategy since it peaked in early 2021.

FIGURE 8. WEEKLY CHART OF INVESCO SOLAR ETF (TAN).

Bitcoin Holding Up

Bitcoin has held its breakout from two weeks ago quite well so far. The next upside target remains near 103k. Again, regardless of whether or not you follow crypto, seeing the bid continue is a bullish sign for risk appetite across different asset classes, especially equities.

Fun fact: Bitcoin topped a few weeks before the SPX, so it can be a useful leading indicator.

FIGURE 9. BITCOIN BREAKS OUT.

Ethereum Playing Catch-Up

While Ethereum’s extreme relative weakness vs. Bitcoin has continued, it too has rallied over the last few weeks. It’s now close to breaking out from a cup with handle formation. At the same time, it’s testing its now flat 50-day moving average.

The combination of a bullish breakout and a move through the 50-day moving average produced a very strong follow-through rally in November, something Ethereum will try to replicate.

FIGURE 10. ETHEREUM BREAKS ABOVE 50-DAY MOVING AVERAGE.

Final Thoughts

As we head into the Fed decision, we’re seeing a lot of cautious optimism in the charts. Key bullish patterns are still holding, sectors like Utilities are showing strength, and crypto is flashing green.

The next few sessions will be important. If we get a knee-jerk reaction to the Fed, but buyers step in quickly it could set the stage for the next leg higher in this rally.

Stay alert.

Frank Cappelleri is the founder and president of CappThesis, an independent technical analysis newsletter firm. Previously, Frank spent 25 years on Wall Street, working for Instinet, the equity arm of Nomura and Smith Barney. Frank’s various roles included being an equity sales trader, technical analyst, research sales specialist and desk strategist. Frank holds the CFA and CMT designations and is a CNBC contributor.

https://cappthesis.com

https://www.youtube.com/@cappthesis

https://twitter.com/FrankCappelleri/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/frank-cappelleri-cfa-cmt-a319483/

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Don’t Buy Robinhood Stock… Until You See This Chart Setup

Stock 5 Mins Read

Robinhood Markets, Inc. (HOOD) is back in the spotlight, wrestling with its four-year highs and turning heads on Wall Street. It debuted in 2021 as an IPO darling, capturing the imagination of young Gen Z traders before its dramatic fall as a meme stock fueled by crypto and an unhealthy dose of FOMO.

Now, with year-to-date gains outpacing the S&P 500 ($SPX), the former disruptor is looking to claim its space as a serious contender rather than a speculative fad.

Robinhood Stock’s Price Action: Breaking Out or Topping Out?

If you’ve been checking the StockCharts Technical Rank (SCTR) Reports, you’ve probably noticed the stock popping up on the Large Cap Top 10 list.

FIGURE 1. SCTR REPORT LARGE CAP TOP 10. Robinhood is second from the top.

If you’re eyeing HOOD, you’re likely asking two key questions: How is it performing relative to its Financials sector peers, and how strong is the sector itself in terms of market breadth? Just as important, you’ll want a longer-term view: How has the stock held up over time, both on its own and compared to the broader S&P 500?

Let’s tackle all those questions in one shot.

Financial Sector Breadth Shows Bullish Tailwinds for HOOD

The chart below, which tracks the Financial Sector Bullish Percent Index, offers a quick read on sector strength and market positioning.

NOTE: The BPI spans three years.

FIGURE 2. FINANCIAL SECTOR BPI. Market breadth and comparative price performance look exceedingly bullish.

From a breadth perspective, the Financial sector looks bullish, bordering on overbought, with over 82% of the stocks within the sector triggering Point & Figure Buy Signals, according to its Bullish Percent Index (BPI) reading. Meanwhile, HOOD is crushing it on a 3-year relative basis—outperforming its sector by 250% and the S&P 500 by nearly 300%.

This paints a bullish picture. But before jumping to conclusions, let’s take a step back and look at HOOD’s price history, going back to when it IPO’d in 2021.

From Meme Craze to Measured Recovery

Check out the weekly chart below.

FIGURE 3. WEEKLY CHART OF HOOD. It’s above the 10-week and 40-week SMAs, but it has quite a distance to go before testing its yearly high.

You don’t need annotations to spot where HOOD’s meme-stock frenzy peaked and where the crash began, fueled by a sharp drop in retail trading activity, crypto market volatility, and intensifying regulatory pressure.

After basing for two years, HOOD began picking up steam in 2024. Its improving technical strength is reflected in the sharp spike of its SCTR, breaking above the 90 line. Fundamentally, HOOD began to recover as it started raking in profits, expanding its product lineup, and reigniting its user growth.

It’s trading above its 10-week and 40-week simple moving average (SMA), which is equivalent to a 50-day and 200-day SMA, respectively. Still, it has quite a way to go before testing its high of $66.90.

Short-Term Trading Setup

If you’re looking to buy HOOD, you’ll need to zoom in to find favorable entry points. Let’s switch over to a daily chart.

FIGURE 4. DAILY CHART OF HOOD. Support levels are clear and accumulation looks promising.

HOOD was in an intermediate-term downtrend starting in early February, where it peaked at $66.90, all the way down to the early part of April, where it bottomed sharply at around $29. HOOD quickly recovered, breaking above $50 (a local swing high) to $54, where it is now (at the time of writing).

Can HOOD Hold Its Gains or Is Consolidation Coming?

The Stochastic Oscillator warns that HOOD may be overbought and due for a pullback. Here are a couple of scenarios to consider, and note that the Ichimoku Cloud visually provides a wider range of potential support:

  • Watch for support at $46 or $39, both recent swing lows.
  • If it stalls between those levels, it could signal a failed breakout and continued consolidation until a new catalyst emerges.
  • If it drops below $39, the next key level is at $29, but be a little cautious at that point, as such a deep retracement may indicate weakening momentum, sentiment, and fundamental weakness.

On the bullish side of things, the Accumulation/Distribution Line (ADL), currently well above the price, is indicating strong accumulation, suggesting that demand is outpacing supply—which, if it continues, can drive prices higher.

At the Close

Robinhood’s stock price is showing real signs of strength, not just on a chart, but in its fundamentals. With relative performance beating its sector and the S&P 500, and strong accumulation under the surface, HOOD’s comeback narrative is gaining technical validation. But with overbought signals flashing and key support levels in play, the next move may depend on whether bulls defend the breakout, or if the stock consolidates further while waiting for its next catalyst.

In either case, keep a close eye on volume, momentum shifts, and those support zones. HOOD may still have more room to run, but timing your entry could make all the difference.

Disclaimer: This blog is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as financial advice. The ideas and strategies should never be used without first assessing your personal and financial situation, or without consulting a financial professional.

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Brunswick Exploration Announces Brokered Private Placement for Gross Proceeds of up to C$2.5 Million, with a Lead Order from a Strategic Investor

Investing 6 Mins Read

NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO UNITED STATES NEWS WIRE SERVICES
  OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES

Brunswick Exploration Inc. (‘ Brunswick ‘ or the ‘ Corporation ‘) (TSX-V: BRW, OTCQB: BRWXF) is pleased to announce that it has entered into an agreement with Red Cloud Securities Inc., to act as co-lead agent and sole bookrunner along with Canaccord Genuity Corp. as co-lead agent (collectively, the ‘ Agents ‘), in connection with a ‘best efforts’ private placement (the ‘ Marketed Offering ‘) for aggregate gross proceeds of up to C$2,500,000 from the sale of (i) units of the Corporation (the ‘ LIFE Units ‘) at a price of C$0.13 per LIFE Unit (the ‘ Offering Price ‘) and (ii) units of the Corporation (the ‘ Non-LIFE Units ‘, and collectively with the LIFE Units, the ‘ Offered Securities ‘) at a price of C$0.15 per Non-LIFE Unit. A strategic investor has made a lead order to subscribe for Non-LIFE Units under the Offering.

Each LIFE Unit will consist of one common share of the Corporation (each, a ‘ Unit Share ‘) and one half of one common share purchase warrant (each whole warrant, a ‘ LIFE Warrant ‘). Each whole LIFE Warrant will entitle the holder thereof to purchase one common share of the Corporation (each, a ‘ Warrant Share ‘) at a price of C$0.20 at any time for a period of 36 months following the Closing Date (as defined herein).

Each Non-LIFE Unit will consist of one Unit Share and one common share purchase warrant (each, a ‘ Non-LIFE Warrant ‘). Each Non-LIFE Warrant will entitle the holder thereof to purchase one Warrant Share at a price of C$0.25 at any time for a period of 36 months following the Closing Date.

The Agents will have an option, exercisable in full or in part, up to 48 hours prior to the Closing Date, to raise up to C$1,000,000 in additional gross proceeds from the sale of LIFE Units at the Offering Price (the ‘ Agents’ Option ‘, and together with the Marketed Offering, the ‘ Offering ‘).

Subject to compliance with applicable regulatory requirements and in accordance with National Instrument 45-106 – Prospectus Exemptions (‘ NI 45-106 ‘), the LIFE Units will be offered for sale to purchasers in all the provinces of Canada (the ‘ Canadian Selling Jurisdictions ‘) pursuant to the listed issuer financing exemption under Part 5A of NI 45-106. The securities to be issued pursuant to the sale of LIFE Units are expected to be immediately freely tradeable under applicable Canadian securities legislation if sold to purchasers resident in Canada.

The Non-LIFE Units will be offered by way of the ‘accredited investor’ and ‘minimum amount investment’ exemptions under NI 45-106 in the Canadian Selling Jurisdictions. The securities to be issued pursuant to the sale of Non-LIFE Units will be subject to a four-month hold period in Canada pursuant to applicable Canadian securities laws.

The Offered Securities may also be issued to purchasers outside of Canada, including to purchasers resident in the United States pursuant to one or more exemptions from the registration requirements of the United States Securities Act of 1933 (the ‘ U.S. Securities Act ‘), as amended.

The Corporation intends to use the net proceeds of the Offering for exploration activities at the Company’s Québec and Greenland projects, as well as for general corporate purposes and working capital.

The Offering is scheduled to close on May 28, 2025 (the ‘ Closing Date ‘), or such other date as the Corporation and the Agents may agree. Completion of the Offering is subject to certain conditions including, but not limited to the receipt of all necessary approvals, including the approval of the TSX Venture Exchange.

There is an offering document related to the Offering that can be accessed under the Corporation’s profile at www.sedarplus.ca and on the Corporation’s website at www.brwexplo.ca. Prospective investors should read this offering document before making an investment decision.

This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to sell any of the securities in the United States. The securities have not been and will not be registered under the U.S. Securities Act, as amended or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to U.S. Persons unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or an exemption from such registration is available.

About Brunswick Exploration

Brunswick Exploration is a Montreal-based mineral exploration company listed on the TSX-V under symbol BRW. The Corporation is focused on grassroots exploration for lithium in Canada, a critical metal necessary to global decarbonization and energy transition. The Corporation is rapidly advancing the most extensive grassroots lithium property portfolio in Canada and Greenland.

Investor Relations/information

Mr. Killian Charles, President and CEO (info@brwexplo.ca)

Cautionary Statement on Forward-Looking Information

This news release contains ‘forward-looking information’ within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation based on expectations, estimates and projections as at the date of this news release. Such forward-looking information includes, but is not limited to, statements concerning the Corporation’s expectations with respect to the use of proceeds and the use of the available funds following completion of the Offering; the completion of the Offering and the date of such completion, approval of the TSX Venture Exchange and the filing of the offering document. Forward-looking information involves risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events, results, performance, prospects and opportunities to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from such forward-looking information include, but are not limited to, delays in obtaining or failures to obtain required governmental, environmental or other project approvals; uncertainties relating to the availability and costs of financing needed in the future; changes in equity markets; inflation; fluctuations in commodity prices; delays in the development of projects; the other risks involved in the mineral exploration and development industry; and those risks set out in the Corporation’s public documents filed on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. Although the Corporation believes that the assumptions and factors used in preparing the forward-looking information in this news release are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on such information, which only applies as of the date of this news release, and no assurance can be given that such events will occur in the disclosed time frames or at all. The Corporation disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, other than as required by law.

Neither the TSX-V nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX-V) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.

News Provided by GlobeNewswire via QuoteMedia

This post appeared first on investingnews.com

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Drill Contract Awarded for Elizabeth Hill. Technical Visit Completed to Define Drill Targets

Investing 3 Mins Read

Errawarra Resources Ltd (ASX: ERW) is pleased to advise that it has awarded its inaugural drilling contract at the high-grade Elizabeth Hill Project, located in the Pilbara region of Western Australia.

HIGHLIGHTS:

  • Inaugural Drilling Contract awarded for Elizabeth Hill.
  • West Core Drilling has been awarded the diamond drilling contract under a partial drill for equity arrangement. Drilling is anticipated to commence imminently post EGM.
  • Drill targeting currently being finalised following site visit by Errawarra’s Management to ground truth targets.
  • Regional Soils program targeting regional structures with associated historical silver in soil anomalism is almost completed with 1,766 soils samples and 89 rock chip samples having been collected.
  • Rock chip sampling is aided using pXRF technology to qualitatively assess with the samples in the field.
  • Laboratory results are expected in 6-8 weeks.

Following a competitive tender process, the Company has awarded the diamond drilling contract to West Core Drilling. The upcoming drill program will be completed under a partial drill-for-equity arrangement and will focus on high-priority mine and near-mine targets. These include:

  • Near-surface mineralisation,
  • Down-plunge extensions, and
  • Strategic drill holes to enhance the geological understanding and structural orientation of the mineralised system.

Drilling is anticipated to commence in the week following the Company’s upcoming General Meeting (GM) planned for 19 May 2025.

Executive Director Bruce Garlick commented:

“We are delighted to partner with West Core as part of our inaugural drilling program. This contract award demonstrates our continued progression of the project, and we look forward to testing the asset with the drill bit in the coming weeks. It was also fantastic for the board to recently visit site and see all the readily available nearby infrastructure that could potentially feed into our development planning.”

Targeting for the drill program is currently being finalised, with active involvement from the Board of Errawarra and technical consultants ERM Consulting. A recent site visit completed by management has enabled ground-truthing of the high-priority targets.

As part of Errawarra’s ongoing project development and planning, management visited the Radio Hill processing plant, approximately 15 kilometres to the north which is owned by Artemis Resources (ASX: ARV) and currently in care and maintenance.

During the same site visit, the team also observed the almost completed regional soil sampling campaign which is targeting regional structures with associated historical silver in soil anomalism. A total 1,766 soil samples and 89 rock chips samples have been collected to date during this program which is anticipated to be completed in the coming week.

Click here for the full ASX Release

This post appeared first on investingnews.com

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NorthStar Gaming Announces Receipt of Management Cease Trade Order

Investing 6 Mins Read

NorthStar Gaming Holdings Inc. (TSXV: BET) (OTCQB: NSBBF) (‘NorthStar’ or the ‘Company’) today announces that its principal regulator, the Ontario Securities Commission, has granted its request for a management cease trade order (‘MCTO’) effective May 8, 2025.

As previously announced on April 29, 2025, the Company applied for the MCTO due to a delay in filing its annual audited financial statements, management’s discussion and analysis and related certifications for the financial year ended December 31, 2024 (the ‘Annual Filings’) which were required to be filed by April 30, 2025.

The delay is primarily due to a restatement of certain amounts owed by the Company’s payment service providers as well as player loyalty bonuses for the prior fiscal years. During the year-end reconciliation process, the Company identified that its payment processor had deducted additional merchant fees from daily remittances, which had not been properly accounted for. Specifically, service provider fees (cost of revenue) were previously understated, while the amounts due from the payment processor and accounts receivable were overstated in the financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2023.

The Company is working diligently and expeditiously to complete the Annual Filings as soon as practicable, and currently anticipates it will be in a position to file the Annual Filings on or before May 15, 2025.

The MCTO restricts the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer from trading in the Company’s securities but does not affect the ability of other shareholders, including the public, to trade in securities of the Company.

About NorthStar

NorthStar proudly owns and operates NorthStar Bets, a Canadian-born casino and sportsbook platform that delivers a premium, distinctly local gaming experience. Designed with high-stakes players in mind, NorthStar Bets Casino offers a curated selection of the most popular games, ensuring an elevated user experience. Our sportsbook stands out with its exclusive Sports Insights feature, seamlessly integrating betting guidance, stats, and scores, all tailored to meet the expectations of a premium audience.

As a Canadian company, NorthStar is uniquely positioned to cater to customers who seek a high-quality product and an exceptional level of personalized service, setting a new standard in the industry. NorthStar is committed to operating at the highest level of responsible gaming standards.

NorthStar is listed in Canada on the TSX Venture Exchange (‘TSXV’) under the symbol ‘BET’ and in the United States on the OTCQB under the symbol ‘NSBBF’. For more information on the company, please visit: www.northstargaming.ca.

No stock exchange, securities commission or other regulatory authority has approved or disapproved the information contained herein. Neither the TSXV nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSXV) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information and Statements

This communication contains ‘forward-looking information’ within the meaning of applicable securities laws in Canada (‘forward-looking statements’), including without limitation, statements with respect to the following: expected performance of the Company’s business, and the timing of the release of the Company’s financial results. The foregoing is provided for the purpose of presenting information about management’s current expectations and plans relating to the future and allowing investors and others to get a better understanding of the Company’s anticipated financial position, results of operations, and operating environment. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as ‘plans’, ‘expects’, ‘is expected’, ‘budget’, ‘scheduled’, ‘estimates’, ‘continues’, ‘forecasts’, ‘projects’, ‘predicts’, ‘intends’, ‘anticipates’ or ‘believes’, or variations of, or the negatives of, such words and phrases, or state that certain actions, events or results ‘may’, ‘could’, ‘would’, ‘should’, ‘might’ or ‘will’ be taken, occur or be achieved. This information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results or events to differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking statements. This forward-looking information is based on management’s opinions, estimates and assumptions that, while considered by NorthStar to be appropriate and reasonable as of the date of this press release, are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other factors that may cause the actual results, levels of activity, performance, or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward- looking information. Such factors include, among others, the following: risks related to the Company’s business and financial position; risks associated with general economic conditions; adverse industry risks; future legislative and regulatory developments; the ability of the Company to implement its business strategies; and those factors discussed in greater detail under the ‘Risk Factors’ section of the Company’s most recent annual information form, which is available under NorthStar’s profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. Many of these risks are beyond the Company’s control.

If any of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or if the opinions, estimates or assumptions underlying the forward-looking information prove incorrect, actual results or future events might vary materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking statements. Although the Company has attempted to identify important risk factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements, there may be other risk factors not presently known to the Company or that the Company presently believes are not material that could also cause actual results or future events to differ materially from those expressed in such forward-looking statements. There can be no assurance that such information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such information. No forward-looking statement is a guarantee of future results. Accordingly, you should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information, which speaks only as of the date made. The forward-looking information contained in this press release represents NorthStar’s expectations as of the date specified herein, and are subject to change after such date. However, the Company disclaims any intention or obligation or undertaking to update or revise any forward-looking information whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required under applicable securities laws.

All of the forward-looking information contained in this press release is expressly qualified by the foregoing cautionary statements.

For further information:

Company Contact:
Corey Goodman
Chief Development Officer 647-530-2387
investorrelations@northstargaming.ca

Investor Relations:
RB Milestone Group LLC (RBMG)
Northstar@rbmilestone.com

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/251431

News Provided by Newsfile via QuoteMedia

This post appeared first on investingnews.com

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US Policy Momentum, Clinical Progress Fueling Psychedelics Market in 2025

Investing 8 Mins Read

When the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) rejected Lykos Therapeutics’ new drug application for MDMA-assisted therapy last August, the initial disappointment cast a shadow over the psychedelics industry.

However, the sector is seeing a resurgence of optimism in 2025 on the back of various US developments.

“The psychedelic industry in 2025 will likely see significant advancements in clinical applications, particularly in treating PTSD, depression, and addiction, as research continues to validate their therapeutic potential,” Dr. Markus Ploesser, chief innovation officer at Open Mind Health, told Microdose in January.

This sentiment is underscored by a variety of recent positive developments, including the FDA’s approval of Johnson & Johnson’s (NYSE:JNJ) ketamine-derived nasal spray to combat treatment-resistant depression, and an initiative to study MDMA-assisted therapy efficacy for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and alcohol use disorder in veterans.

In addition, alternative medicine advocate Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s appointment as head of the US Department of Health and Human Services has created potential for further policy shifts related to mental health and psychedelics research.

Combined, these factors could make 2025 a pivotal year for the industry.

Legal state psychedelics markets take shape

Psychedelic compounds remain federally illegal in the US, but some states have pursued legalization and decriminalization. In November 2020, Oregon became the first state to legalize psilocybin for therapeutic use through the Oregon Psilocybin Services Act. From 2021 to 2022, the Oregon Health Authority and the Psilocybin Advisory Board created rules for the act and began taking applications on January 2, 2023.

Oregon also decriminalized personal possession of all drugs in 2020 through the Drug Addiction Treatment and Recovery Act, which went into effect in February 2021. Many of the provisions in that bill have since been reversed, with the possession of small amounts of hard drugs like fentanyl, methamphetamine and heroin being recriminalized as of September 1, 2024. However, psilocybin remains legal for therapeutic and facilitated use.

As of the end of March, Oregon Psilocybin Services counted 374 state-wide psilocybin facilitators, 29 service centers, 10 manufacturers and 808 worker permits. Satya Therapeutics, located in Ashland, is recognized as one of the state’s most experienced and successful service providers, with roughly 40 to 50 clients serviced monthly.

Publicly traded Florida-based cannabis company Kaya Holdings (OTCQB:KAYS) was awarded a license to operate a psilocybin service center in Oregon through its Fifth Dimension Therapeutics subsidiary in May 2024. Its treatment center, called the Sacred Mushroom, opened its doors in Portland on July 2, 2024.

In 2025, industry advocates are focused on analyzing outcomes from Oregon’s psychedelics program in order to fine tune areas requiring improvement. In February, state lawmakers sought to expand psychedelic therapy through the introduction of HB 3817, which establishes an access pathway for individuals with PTSD to access ibogaine. At the time of this writing, the bill had not yet been scheduled for a public hearing or committee vote.

Despite its growth, affordability has been a barrier to the development of Oregon’s psilocybin therapy program, with sessions typically costing over US$1,500. Some communities in the state also voted to ban psilocybin and psilocybin businesses in 2024, reflecting ongoing public concerns about drug liberalization.

In Colorado, a series of legislative actions regarding psychedelic substances led to state legalization in November 2022. Proposition 122 legalized the regulated access to psilocybin and psilocin in healing centers for adults over 21, decriminalized the personal use and cultivation of these substances and established a Natural Medicine Advisory Board.

SB 23-290, signed in May 2023, amended Proposition 122’s regulations and created a legal framework for healing centers. HB 22-1344, passed in June 2022, paved the way for MDMA-assisted therapy for PTSD if federally approved.

The final rules for licensed psilocybin therapy centers were filed with the secretary of state and became effective on December 15, 2024. Colorado then began accepting applications for licenses. In March, the Department of Revenue issued its first healing center license to the Center Origin in Denver. As of May 2 of this year, there were over 50 pending applications for healing centers, cultivation facilities and manufacturers.

As the psychedelics industry begins to take shape in Colorado, Tasia Poinsatte, the state’s director of the nonprofit Healing Advocacy Fund, told Stateline that centers plan to offer sliding-scale rates and discounts for veterans, Medicaid enrollees and low-income individuals to help address the affordability problem.

New psychedelics laws and research initiatives

Apart from Oregon and Colorado, a wave of legislative activity concerning psychedelics is evident across the US, with states like Illinois, Indiana, Missouri, Maine and New York pursuing various forms of legalization, including decriminalization, research funding and regulated therapeutic programs. Additionally, several cities in Washington and Michigan have decriminalized certain substances, with Washington also considering bills to create a regulated psilocybin services market and to provide funding to study ibogaine for opioid use disorder.

Utah passed legislation in March 2024 to create a program for psilocybin and MDMA as alternative treatments at the University of Utah Health and Intermountain Health. The program began in May 2024 and will run for three years.

Multiple institutions in Maryland, Texas and North Carolina are also conducting studies to assess the efficacy of psychedelics in treating various mental health conditions.

Senate Bill 242 established a working group tasked with studying the therapeutic use of entheogens in Nevada in 2023. A recommendations report was delivered in December 2024, and has garnered support from key legislative figures.

Several cities in California have deprioritized the enforcement of laws against the personal use and possession of certain psychedelics, and the state is considering a psilocybin pilot program for veterans and first responders.

Massachusetts has multiple bills focused on decriminalization and therapeutic pilot programs. In April of this year, New Mexico’s governor signed a bill for a therapeutic psilocybin program.

Meanwhile, Rhode Island has a bill that would legalize psilocybin possession if the federal government reschedules it, and Alaska established a task force in May 2024 to prepare for potential federal legalization of psychedelic therapies.

These actions reflect a shift in psychedelics sentiment and a growing trend of exploring their therapeutic potential.

Psychedelics investing options

To track the financial health of the psychedelic industry, investors can use the Psychedelic Invest Index, which monitors publicly traded companies in the space. Some of the top stocks in the index include Pasithea Therapeutics (NASDAQ:KTTA), MindMed (NASDAQ:MNMD), Compass Pathways (NASDAQ:CMPS) and Cybin (NYSEAMERICAN:CYBN), all of which are involved in developing psychedelic compounds for mental health treatments.

MindMed has developed a synthetic LSD analog, MM120, currently in Phase III trials for generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and major depressive disorder (MDD). An oral tablet of MM120 was awarded a patent in July 2024.

Cybin has developed a proprietary deuterated psilocybin analog called CYB003, as well as CYB004, a proprietary deuterated DMT compound; both are protected by patents. The company also acquired SPL028, another deuterated DMT compound, through its merger with Small Pharma in 2023. Phase 2 CYB004 topline safety and efficacy data in GAD is expected in H1 2025. A pivotal study of CYB003 is scheduled for mid-2025.

Meanwhile, Compass Pathways’ Phase 2b randomized controlled study evaluating its synthetic psilocybin therapy, COMP360, was the most extensive psilocybin clinical trial to date. With data presented in 2022, the trial found that one 25 milligram dose of COMP360 resulted in a decline in depressive symptoms after three weeks when combined with psychological guidance, with positive effects reportedly lasting for as long as 12 weeks.

Other key players in the psychedelics market include atai Life Sciences (NASDAQ:ATAI), GH Research (NASDAQ:GHRS), Bright Minds Biosciences (NASDAQ:DRUG) and Silo Pharma (NASDAQ:SILO).

Canadian companies in this sector include Numinus Wellness (TSX:NUMI,OTCQB:MTPLF), Optimi Health (CSE:OPTI,OTCQX:OPTHF), BetterLife Pharma (CSE:BETR,OTCQB:BETRF), Pharmala Biotech (CSE:MDMA,OTCQB:MDXXF) and Restart Life Science (CSE:REST,OTC Pink:NMLSF).

Other avenues for investors include strategic investments in specialized real estate ventures.

Healing Realty Trust (HRT) specializes in acquiring healthcare infrastructure assets, focusing on developing mental and behavioral healthcare facilities. The company established preferred real estate partnership agreements with providers like NeuroSpa, Cambridge Biotherapies and Cathexis in 2024. It has also secured the first tranche of a US$25 million Series A funding round, with the funds earmarked to acquire healthcare facilities in Texas, Ohio and Connecticut.

HRT is reportedly preparing for an initial public offering, with a potential listing in late 2025 or early 2026.

Investor takeaway

Against this backdrop, the psychedelics market could see promising growth in 2025.

While challenges remain, the expansion of legalization and decriminalization, combined with ongoing research, positions the industry for growth and presents potential opportunities for investors.

Securities Disclosure: I, Meagen Seatter, hold direct investment interest in some of the companies mentioned in this article.

This post appeared first on investingnews.com

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Business

UnitedHealthcare sued by shareholders over reaction to CEO’s killing

Business 2 Mins Read

A group of investors sued UnitedHealthcare Group on Wednesday, accusing the company of misleading them after the killing of its CEO, Brian Thompson.

The class action lawsuit — filed in the Southern District of New York — accuses the health insurance company of not initially adjusting their 2025 net earning outlook to factor in how Thompson’s killing would affect their operations.

On Dec. 3 — a day before Thompson was fatally shot — the company issued guidance that included net earnings of $28.15 to $28.65 per share and adjusted net earnings of $29.50 to $30.00 per share, the suit notes. And on January 16, the company announced that it was sticking with its old forecast.

The investors described this as “materially false and misleading,” pointing to the immense public scrutiny the company and the broader health insurance industry experienced in the wake of Thompson’s killing.

The group, which is seeking unspecified damages, argued that the public backlash prevented the company from pursuing ‘the aggressive, anti-consumer tactics that it would need to achieve’ its earnings goals.

‘As such, the Company was deliberately reckless in doubling down on its previously issued guidance,’ the suit reads.

The company eventually revised its 2025 outlook on April 17, citing a needed shift in corporate strategy — a move that caused its stock to drop more than 22% that day.

‘The company denies any allegations of wrongdoing and intends to defend the matter vigorously,’ a UnitedHealthcare spokesperson said in a statement.

Thompson’s fatal shooting on the streets of New York City in broad daylight sent shockwaves across the nation.

Luigi Mangione, the 27-year-old man accused of the killing, has pleaded not guilty to federal and state charges against him. The legal defense fund for Mangione surpassed the $1 million mark in donations on Tuesday.

This post appeared first on NBC NEWS

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Business

Krispy Kreme stock plunges after doughnut chain pauses McDonald’s rollout, pulls outlook

Business 3 Mins Read

Krispy Kreme stock plunged 24% on Thursday morning after the doughnut chain said it is “reassessing” its rollout with McDonald’s and pulled its full-year outlook in part due to economic “softness.”

Krispy Kreme is not planning to launch its doughnuts in any additional McDonald’s locations in the second quarter, suspending a nationwide rollout. As of March 30, more than 2,400 of the burger chain’s roughly 13,500 domestic locations carried Krispy Kreme doughnuts.

“I remain confident in the long-term national opportunity, but we need to work together with them to identify levers to improve sales,” Krispy Kreme CEO Josh Charlesworth said.

Over the last year, Krispy Kreme shares have shed more than 70% of their value, dragging the company’s market value down to less than $600 million.

Truist downgraded the stock on Thursday from buy to hold.

“We are shocked by the speed at which the story fell apart,” Truist analyst Bill Chappell wrote. ”… We no longer have high conviction in management’s previously stated strategy and execution of these initiatives, and it will likely take several quarters before we or investors can regain confidence.”

The two restaurant companies announced more than a year ago that Krispy Kreme doughnuts would be sold in all McDonald’s U.S. locations by the end of 2026. The rollout began roughly six months ago.

While the beginning phases were promising, sales fell below projections, Krispy Kreme executives said on Thursday.

As consumers worry about the broader economy and a potential recession, they have been pulling back their spending at restaurants. McDonald’s reported a 3.6% decline in its U.S. same-store sales for the first quarter. McDonald’s CEO Chris Kempczinski said that the fast-food industry’s traffic fell as middle- and low-income diners visited restaurants less frequently.

For Krispy Kreme, profitability appears to be the key reason for slowing the rollout with McDonald’s.

“However, we are seeing that after the initial marketing launch demand dropped below our expectations requiring intervention to deliver sustainable, profitable growth,” Charlesworth told analysts on the company’s conference call.

“We are partnering with McDonald’s to increase sales by stimulating higher demand and cutting costs by simplifying operations,” he added. “At the same time, we are reassessing our deployment schedule together with McDonald’s as we work to achieve a profitable business model for all parties.”

Krispy Kreme reported a net loss of $33 million for the quarter ended March 30.

To supply all of McDonald’s U.S. restaurants, Krispy Kreme was investing in expanding capacity quickly, which weighed on profits. In the last year, the company has reported three quarters of net losses.

The company uses a “hub and spoke” model that lets it make and distribute its treats efficiently. Production hubs, which are either stores or doughnut factories, send off freshly made doughnuts every day to retail locations such as grocery stores and gas stations. Krispy Kreme is looking to prune its unprofitable locations, which could affect up to 10% of its U.S. network.

Krispy Kreme also pulled its 2025 outlook, citing “macroeconomic softness” and uncertainty around the schedule for the McDonald’s partnership.

This post appeared first on NBC NEWS

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Stock

Fed Watch: Key Bullish Patterns in the S&P 500, Utilities, and Crypto

Stock 6 Mins Read

The S&P 500 ($SPX) wrapped up Tuesday just below its intraday midpoint and posted one of the narrowest ranges we’ve seen in the past two months. That’s a clear sign traders are reluctant to take major bets ahead of Wednesday’s 2:00 PM ET Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) decision.

And honestly, this caution makes sense. If we look back at how the stock market has reacted following the first two FOMC meetings of 2025, there has been a mix of hesitation and sharp moves.

Below is an updated chart marking each FOMC date since 2024 alongside the S&P 500. After the late January meeting, the S&P 500 zig-zagged to marginal new highs over the next two weeks before the first of two sharp down legs unfolded.

FIGURE 1. FOMC DATES SINCE 2024.

Coincidence or not, the S&P 500 is trading at nearly the same price level now, six weeks later, as it was back then. So, how close are today’s prices compared to the close on March 18, the day before the last Fed meeting?

This close (see chart below):

FIGURE 2. THE S&P 500 IS TRADING VERY CLOSE TO LAST FOMC MEETING LEVELS.

The difference is that the index has been rallying for four weeks, starting from the pivot low on April 7, a month ago today. In March, the S&P 500 was trying to bounce after topping four weeks earlier on February 19. That bounce continued for a few more days before dominant down-trending price action took over.

But over the last few weeks, the dominant trend is definitely higher. So the big question now is: can this mini uptrend resume after this pause?

A Short-Term Setup to Watch

A few days ago, the 14-period relative strength index (RSI) on the two-hour chart grazed the 70-overbought level for the first time since late January (see chart below). Yes, it took a nearly 18% rally in a very short time frame for it to finally happen, but remember, the indicator was coming off its lowest level since the COVID lows. Modest 3–5% pops were enough to trigger overbought readings for much of 2024. Not this time.

As you know, overbought conditions never persist, especially in very short timeframes like this. However, if this rally has anything left in the tank, we’ll see the indicator hit overbought again soon. That may not happen in the next day or two, but if the market reacts negatively to today’s news, but a bid returns soon after, it could keep some of the bullish patterns we’ve been tracking in play. That’s just one scenario, but one we’ll be closely watching.

FIGURE 3. TWO-HOUR CHART OF THE S&P 500.

Bullish Patterns Still Intact

There are two bullish pattern breakouts still in play on the S&P 500 chart:

And barring a very extreme and negative reaction, the patterns will stay alive today, as well.

FIGURE 4. INVERSE HEAD-AND-SHOULDERS AND CUP WITH HANDLE PATTERNS.

FIGURE 5. INVERSE HEAD-AND-SHOULDERS PATTERN IN THE S&P 500.

FIGURE 6. CUP WITH HANDLE PATTERN IN THE S&P 500.

A Bright Spot: Utilities

The Utilities Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLU) was the first sector ETF (and one of the first of all the ETFs we track) to notch a new 50-day high, which it hit on Tuesday. On the weekly chart, it’s clear the ETF is now trying to leverage a multi-month bottoming formation.

This is especially notable because the formation has developed above two bullish pattern breakouts from 2024. Ironically, XLU’s first major breakout of 2024 happened around this time last year (late April), which set the stage for an extremely strong run, at least through late November.

The current snapback is important to watch, given how well XLU has recently capitalized on bullish breakouts. Some upside follow-through from here would also put the former highs back in the crosshairs.

FIGURE 7. WEEKLY CHART OF UTILITIES SELECT SECTOR SPDR (XLU).

Invesco Solar (TAN) Still Has Work to Do

Invesco Solar ETF (TAN) has been rallying since the April lows, much like nearly every ETF we track. On the daily chart, it’s been trying to leverage a bullish cup and handle pattern, a formation we’ve also seen emerge in many other areas. It’s coming off an extremely oversold condition, with its 14-week RSI undercutting 30 for just the third time since 2021. So TAN could see some additional upside from here.

But the ETF will need to do much more to materially improve its long-term technical picture. Nearly every rally has stalled near the key weekly moving averages, all of which continue to slope lower. Selling strength in TAN has been a highly effective strategy since it peaked in early 2021.

FIGURE 8. WEEKLY CHART OF INVESCO SOLAR ETF (TAN).

Bitcoin Holding Up

Bitcoin has held its breakout from two weeks ago quite well so far. The next upside target remains near 103k. Again, regardless of whether or not you follow crypto, seeing the bid continue is a bullish sign for risk appetite across different asset classes, especially equities.

Fun fact: Bitcoin topped a few weeks before the SPX, so it can be a useful leading indicator.

FIGURE 9. BITCOIN BREAKS OUT.

Ethereum Playing Catch-Up

While Ethereum’s extreme relative weakness vs. Bitcoin has continued, it too has rallied over the last few weeks. It’s now close to breaking out from a cup with handle formation. At the same time, it’s testing its now flat 50-day moving average.

The combination of a bullish breakout and a move through the 50-day moving average produced a very strong follow-through rally in November, something Ethereum will try to replicate.

FIGURE 10. ETHEREUM BREAKS ABOVE 50-DAY MOVING AVERAGE.

Final Thoughts

As we head into the Fed decision, we’re seeing a lot of cautious optimism in the charts. Key bullish patterns are still holding, sectors like Utilities are showing strength, and crypto is flashing green.

The next few sessions will be important. If we get a knee-jerk reaction to the Fed, but buyers step in quickly it could set the stage for the next leg higher in this rally.

Stay alert.

Frank Cappelleri is the founder and president of CappThesis, an independent technical analysis newsletter firm. Previously, Frank spent 25 years on Wall Street, working for Instinet, the equity arm of Nomura and Smith Barney. Frank’s various roles included being an equity sales trader, technical analyst, research sales specialist and desk strategist. Frank holds the CFA and CMT designations and is a CNBC contributor.

https://cappthesis.com

https://www.youtube.com/@cappthesis

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https://www.linkedin.com/in/frank-cappelleri-cfa-cmt-a319483/

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