Posted by Alavaro Coronel
at 4:26 PM on Thursday, July 3rd, 2025
STRATEGIC PROGRESS VALIDATED BY INDUSTRY LEADER
HPQ Silicon $HPQ / $HPQFF has taken a major step toward commercializing its breakthrough fumed silica technology. Under a previously announced Letter of Intent (LOI), the leading global manufacturer of fumed silica has now confirmed the quality and performance of HPQ’s pilot-scale material—offering rare third-party validation at this stage.
This milestone follows the successful completion of Phase One testing, which demonstrated high-purity output, significant impurity reduction, and semi-continuous reactor operation—all critical for industrial production.
“Taken together, the results from Phase 1 tests 4 and 5, along with operational data from the three earlier tests, validate the successful 20-fold scale-up of the Fumed Silica Reactor—from lab to pilot scale, and from batch to semi-continuous production.” — Bernard Tourillon, President and CEO of HPQ Silicon and HPQ Silica Polvere Inc.
WHY THIS MATTERS
HPQ’s patented one-step process converts quartz into fumed silica without toxic byproducts or the need for costly legacy infrastructure. This modular, low-footprint approach positions HPQ to challenge traditional producers in a $2B+ global market.
NEXT: FINAL TECHNICAL OPTIMIZATION AND MARKET ENTRY
Phase Two testing is set to begin mid-July, with a focus on achieving surface area targets suitable for multiple commercial applications. Success would mark a major step toward offtake discussions—particularly with the global manufacturer evaluating HPQ’s material under LOI.
THE BOTTOM LINE
With third-party validation secured, pilot operations successfully scaled, and technical risks reduced, HPQ Silicon is approaching a commercial inflection point. Investors looking for exposure to high-impact industrial innovation should be paying close attention.
Posted by Brittany McNabb
at 9:55 AM on Friday, June 27th, 2025
Quantum BioPharma (NASDAQ: QNTM / CSE: QNTM) is now facing one of the most severe short pressure environments observed in North American markets this year. The borrow fee on QNTM shares has surged past 437% annually — roughly 1% per trading day — placing it among the highest-cost securities to short across any exchange. These fees signal that brokers are effectively out of lendable inventory and are pricing risk accordingly.
Float Scarcity Driving Volatility Risk
With fewer than 15,000 shares available for borrowing across major prime brokers, QNTM has entered what many refer to as a “locate vacuum.” The company’s public float is approximately 2.6 million shares, making it highly sensitive to buying pressure. In micro-float environments, even small bursts of covering or long-side accumulation can cause rapid price escalation due to a lack of natural sellers and tight liquidity conditions.
Dark Pool Activity Clouds Price Discovery
Adding to concerns is the high proportion of off-exchange short trading. In recent sessions, approximately 59% of QNTM’s daily volume has been routed through dark pools — private trading venues that do not display pre-trade quotes. While such routing is legal, this level of activity can obscure real demand and suppress visible momentum. In an environment where supply is tight and borrow costs are surging, dark pool dominance raises legitimate questions about whether price discovery is functioning as it should.
Echoes of Past Short-Driven Dislocations
The structural setup now surrounding QNTM bears striking similarities to prior market events that resulted in high-profile short squeezes. KaloBios (KBIO) gained over 10,000% in 2015 after its float was effectively locked and borrow availability vanished. GameStop (GME) surged 2,740% in early 2021 under conditions of high borrow fees, float constraints, and elevated short interest. Other comparables include Tilray (TLRY) and KOSS, where borrow fees exceeded 800% during moments of extreme float compression. QNTM’s current borrow rate already exceeds GME’s peak — despite having a much smaller float.
Company Fundamentals Remain Unchanged
While trading volatility has increased, Quantum BioPharma’s operational strategy and clinical programs remain firmly on track. The company recently completed Phase 1 trials for Lucid-MS, a novel treatment designed to repair myelin damage in multiple sclerosis patients. Developed in collaboration with scientists from a Harvard-affiliated teaching hospital, Lucid-MS offers a differentiated approach in a space long dominated by immune suppression therapies. Importantly, the company has made no promotional claims, has not issued new financings, and is not engaged in any stock-related marketing activity.
No Squeeze Assumptions — But Structural Tension Is Clear
A short squeeze is never guaranteed, even with elevated borrow fees and float scarcity. However, the structural tension in QNTM’s trading — characterized by near-zero share availability, high-cost borrow, and dark pool suppression — creates the potential for sudden dislocation if a trigger appears. Any combination of positive news, reduced volume, or insider accumulation could prompt a reflexive covering event in a market ill-equipped to absorb it.
Reaffirming the Need for Market Integrity
Quantum BioPharma has not commented on recent trading behavior but reaffirms its commitment to transparency, scientific advancement, and regulatory compliance. The company supports fair, orderly markets and believes that all participants — including regulators and exchanges — should remain vigilant when structural indicators point to breakdowns in natural price formation. As this situation evolves, investors, analysts, and oversight bodies are encouraged to monitor borrow fees, share availability, and trade routing closely.
Posted by Alavaro Coronel
at 9:16 AM on Thursday, June 19th, 2025
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
• Battery production has officially begun • First batch of cells is already in transit to clients • HPQ holds exclusive commercialization rights in North America • Technology successfully integrated by large-scale industrial partner • Target markets include military, drones, and industrial equipment
HPQ Silicon $HPQ / $HPQFF has entered a pivotal new phase. In partnership with Novacium, the company has launched industrial production of advanced lithium-ion batteries using its proprietary silicon-based anode material — a key enabler of higher performance and longer cycle life.
The first production run, consisting of cylindrical cells in 18650 and 21700 formats, has already been completed and is now ready to ship to early clients . This early delivery milestone marks a critical shift from R&D to real-world application and positions HPQ for potential near-term revenue.
STRATEGIC EXECUTION WITH GLOBAL-SCALE MANUFACTURING PARTNER
Rather than invest in costly infrastructure, HPQ partnered with an established battery manufacturer that already produces tens of millions of cells annually. This partner has successfully integrated HPQ’s material into its existing production line — validating the technology’s compatibility and accelerating time to market.
“This strategic acceleration is a response to the strong market interest,” said Dr. Jed Kraiem, COO of Novacium. “Our objective is to deliver the first commercial units and begin formalizing partnerships before the end of Q3 2025.”
That timeline points to potential commercial deliveries as early as July, and underscores growing demand from sectors like defense, drones, and specialty electronics.
HOW HPQ BENEFITS
HPQ will participate in two ways:
28% of all revenues generated by Novacium from international sales
Through direct sales under its exclusive license for North America (Canada, U.S., Mexico)
This structure allows HPQ to build recurring revenue while maintaining asset-light scalability.
WHY IT MATTERS
• First production achieved within 18 months of initial results • No need for large capital outlays — a lean, scalable model • Strategy may qualify for government funding when localized to Canada • Intentional, milestone-driven communication strategy is now paying off
LOOKING AHEAD: SMART SCALING AND STRATEGIC FOCUS
As demand grows, HPQ plans to bring battery manufacturing to Canada — a move aimed at reducing logistics costs and capturing government support. Importantly, the company is also exploring a potential future spin-out of its battery business to better align with focused investors.
BOTTOM LINE
HPQ is no longer just proving technology in the lab — it’s producing, shipping, and positioning for revenue. With early clients engaged and commercial units expected by Q3 2025, the company is delivering on its roadmap.
Posted by Alavaro Coronel
at 4:22 PM on Friday, June 13th, 2025
HPQ Silicon $HPQ / $HPQFF is taking aim at one of the most entrenched—and overlooked—industrial markets: fumed silica. Found in everything from cosmetics to pharmaceuticals and batteries, this material hasn’t seen a meaningful manufacturing innovation since World War II. That may be about to change.
In a major step toward commercialization, HPQ announced that a leading global fumed silica manufacturer—a $10 billion industry heavyweight—has independently confirmed that the company’s pilot plant successfully produced fumed silica using its proprietary Fumed Silica Reactor. This marks a pivotal third-party validation of HPQ’s clean-tech, direct-from-quartz process.
WHY THIS MATTERS
Traditional fumed silica production relies on multi-step processes with high energy input and chemical byproducts. HPQ’s plasma-based FSR process simplifies this by producing fumed silica directly from quartz.
Today’s milestone confirms:
Completion of a fourth successful pilot test
Independent verification that the output is fumed silica
A five-day turnaround for technical feedback—dramatically accelerating R&D cycles
“Gaining direct access to the testing facilities of a global leader significantly accelerates our validation efforts for HSPI’s FSR technology and its ability to produce fumed silica that meets their rigorous specifications,” said Bernard Tourillon, CEO of HPQ Silicon.
ACCELERATED TESTING, STRATEGIC VALUE
The validation was delivered within just five business days—far faster than the 30-day cycle typical of academic testing. This rapid feedback loop allows HPQ to refine its process with real-time industry input and make informed adjustments between tests. The partnership is expected to improve the speed, precision, and cost-efficiency of product development as HPQ progresses toward commercial output.
LOOKING AHEAD
While the current test confirms pilot-scale success, HPQ has stated that further optimization is underway. The insights from the global manufacturer will help improve material quality, reduce impurities, and support the company’s path to larger-scale operations.
Next steps include:
Additional pilot batch testing
Enhanced performance based on third-party guidance
Ongoing collaboration through established LOIs with global players
FINAL TAKE
With third-party validation now secured, HPQ is gaining meaningful momentum. Its direct-from-quartz plasma process represents a potential leap forward in how fumed silica is produced—offering advantages in cost, sustainability, and scalability. While commercial-grade production remains a near-term target, today’s milestone offers clear confirmation that HPQ’s disruptive technology is working—and gaining attention in a multi-billion-dollar global industry.
Posted by Alavaro Coronel
at 8:16 AM on Wednesday, June 11th, 2025
When the CEO of an international company says a small-cap company’s technology represents a major breakthrough in decentralized high-pressure hydrogen production, you should probably pay close attention. That’s exactly what the CEO of Pragma Industries said about HPQ Silicon and its partner Novacium. The companies have signed a commercial and industrial cooperation agreement to advance their METAGENE™ green hydrogen production system.
Posted by Alavaro Coronel
at 10:49 AM on Thursday, May 29th, 2025
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
First-Mover Advantage: HPQ is the only known company with a proven direct process from quartz to fumed silica—cutting cost, emissions, and complexity.
Two Global Giants Testing Samples: One under LOI, another under NDA and re-engaging after prior testing—signaling escalating interest and competitive optionality.
Modular, Scalable Tech: Enables regional production with lower capex to capitalize on tariff wars and ESG mandates.
Domestic Market Opportunity: Canada’s $150–200M USD fumed silica market currently has no Canadian manufacturer — HPQ is positioned to fill that gap.
When the $10 Billion industry leading manufacturer asks for early samples of your product — before you’re even ready to ship — it signals more than interest. It signals intent. HPQ Silicon $HPQ / $HPQFF, alongside partner PyroGenesis, has entered a critical phase in its commercialization path for fumed silica — an essential compound used in everything from cosmetics to construction.
HPQ’s one-step quartz-to-fumed silica process eliminates the toxic chemicals, high emissions, and billion-dollar infrastructure typically required by incumbents who are working with outdated processes. That innovation is now moving out of the pilot plant and into the hands of world-leading producers.
THE MILESTONE THAT MATTERS
HPQ has shipped its first batch of fumed silica to a leading global manufacturer Evonik for evaluation. This follows third-party validation at the lab level and successful scale-up to pilot production.
“This collaboration gives us access to over 80 years of real-world manufacturing and market expertise—an advantage that accelerates our development and strengthens our commercialization efforts.” — Bernard Tourillon, CEO, HPQ Silicon
A second global player, which had previously received a small test batch and is under NDA, has also re-engaged — requesting additional material from a higher-quality production run. The significance: HPQ now has multiple industry leaders testing samples, placing the company in a far stronger commercial negotiation position than ever before.
THE STRATEGIC OUTLOOK
Rather than lock into early-stage agreements, HPQ is preserving flexibility to pursue the most advantageous commercial path — whether via joint ventures, licensing, or direct production. With a clean, modular process that eliminates toxic byproducts and avoids billion-dollar capex, HPQ is not just participating in a $2B+ market — it’s challenging its foundation.
For investors, this isn’t merely a materials science breakthrough. It’s a potential paradigm shift. With validation underway, commercial discussions accelerating, and strategic optionality intact, HPQ is emerging as a first mover with the technology and timing on its side.
Watch the full interview with CEO Bernard Tourillon to understand why the world’s top producers are now knocking on HPQ’s door.
Posted by Brittany McNabb
at 2:35 PM on Wednesday, May 28th, 2025
With a legacy of UAV innovation and a portfolio of real-world deployments, Draganfly Inc. (NASDAQ: DPRO | CSE: DPRO) is accelerating its reach across critical sectors—from battlefield logistics to disaster relief.
A Proven UAV Partner with Global Impact
Draganfly has spent over 25 years at the forefront of drone innovation. Today, that track record is translating into real-world impact across defense, public safety, infrastructure, and humanitarian missions.
In 2024, the company generated $6.56 million USD in revenue, and in Q1 2025, it posted a 16% year-over-year revenue increase, driven by rising demand for product sales—up 24.5%. From conflict zones in Ukraine to emergency responses in North America, Draganfly is redefining how unmanned aerial systems are used to save lives and enhance efficiency.
Strategic Expansion Meets Mission-Critical Demand
Draganfly’s momentum is anchored by high-profile partnerships and geographic expansion:
Appointed by SafeLane Global as the preferred global drone partner for landmine mapping in over 60 conflict-affected countries, including active missions in Ukraine.
Opened a U.S. defense facility in Tampa, Florida to support federal and public safety clients.
Earned a key FAA waiver authorizing operations over people and moving vehicles—essential for urban drone missions.
Partnered with Volatus Aerospace to deliver advanced aerial intelligence tools, including bathymetric LiDAR for high-precision surveying over water.
This is strategic execution in action—Draganfly is not just building drones; it’s building infrastructure for global resilience.
Drones Built for the Front Lines
Draganfly’s drone ecosystem is designed for critical, high-stakes missions:
Commander 3XL: Trusted by the U.S. Department of Defense and Massachusetts Department of Transportation, this flagship platform supports tactical resupply, surveillance, and medical drone delivery.
Heavy Lift Drone: Designed for large-payload delivery, from medical kits and comms gear to infrastructure materials—ideal for disaster relief and rugged logistics.
APEX Platform: Supports thermal imaging, real-time overwatch, and situational awareness for emergency response and crisis coordination.
These systems are already deployed for wildfire response, search and rescue, and critical infrastructure inspection—backed by award-winning design and engineering.
Public Safety Expertise Strengthened at the Top
In May 2025, Draganfly appointed Peter Lambrinakos, O.O.M., CPP, to its Public Safety Advisory Board. A former Chief of Police at VIA Rail and senior official with the Montreal Police Service, Lambrinakos brings decades of leadership in national security, crisis response, and AI ethics in public safety.
His addition reinforces Draganfly’s commitment to delivering secure, non-foreign-made drone technology that meets the evolving demands of North American defense and public agencies.
Beyond the Battlefield: Humanitarian UAV Solutions
Draganfly’s work with SafeLane Global marks a major leap forward in UAV-based landmine detection—deploying drones to safely survey minefields and deliver mesh-based demining systems.
This initiative, combined with previous drone delivery missions of insulin in Ukraine, highlights Draganfly’s growing footprint in humanitarian tech—applying AI-powered aerial systems to the world’s most pressing emergencies.
Looking Ahead: Scaling Innovation with Purpose
With new U.S. operations, regulatory clearances, and critical defense and public safety partnerships, Draganfly is positioning itself as a trusted domestic drone supplier at a time when national security policies increasingly favor secure, North American-made UAV systems.
The company’s multi-use platforms—modular, AI-integrated, and built to perform—are redefining what’s possible across defense, infrastructure, and emergency response.
Draganfly isn’t just meeting demand—it’s shaping the future of aerial intelligence.
This record is published on behalf of the featured company or companies mentioned (Collectively “Clients”), which are paid clients of Agora Internet Relations Corp or AGORACOM Investor Relations Corp. (Collectively “AGORACOM”)
AGORACOM.com is a platform. AGORACOM is an online marketing agency that is compensated by public companies to provide online marketing, branding and awareness through Advertising in the form of content on AGORACOM.com, its related websites (smallcapepicenter.com; smallcappodcast.com; smallcapagora.com) and all of their social media sites (Collectively “AGORACOM Network”) . As such please assume any of the companies mentioned above have paid for the creation, publication and dissemination of this article / post.
You understand that AGORACOM receives either monetary or securities compensation for our services, including creating, publishing and distributing content on behalf of Clients, which includes but is not limited to articles, press releases, videos, interview transcripts, industry bulletins, reports, GIFs, JPEGs, (Collectively “Records”) and other records by or on behalf of clients. Although AGORACOM compensation is not tied to the sale or appreciation of any securities, we stand to benefit from any volume or stock appreciation of our Clients. In exchange for publishing services rendered by AGORACOM on behalf of Clients, AGORACOM receives annual cash and/or securities compensation of typically up to $125,000.
Facts relied upon by AGORACOM are generally provided by clients or gathered by AGORACOM from other public sources including press releases, SEDAR and/or EDGAR filings, website, powerpoint presentations. These facts may be in error and if so, Records created by AGORACOM may be materially different. In our video interviews or video content, opinions are those of our guests or interviewees and do not necessarily reflect the opinion of AGORACOM.
From time to time, reference may be made in our marketing materials to prior Records we have published. These references may be selective, may reference only a portion of an article or recommendation, and are likely not to be current. As markets change continuously, previously published information and data may not be current and should not be relied upon.
NO INVESTMENT ADVICE
This record, and any record we publish by or on behalf of our clients, should not be construed as an offer or solicitation to buy or sell products or securities.
You understand and agree that no content in this record or published by AGORACOM constitutes a recommendation that any particular security, portfolio of securities, transaction, or investment strategy is suitable or advisable for any specific person and that no such content is tailored to any specific person’s needs. We will never advise you personally concerning the nature, potential, advisability, value or suitability of any particular security, portfolio of securities, transaction, investment strategy, or other matter.
Neither the writer of this record nor AGORACOM is an investment advisor. Both are neither licensed to provide nor are making any buy or sell recommendations. For more information about this or any other company, please review their public documents to conduct your own due diligence.
Posted by Brittany McNabb
at 1:57 PM on Tuesday, May 27th, 2025
A Bold Signal of Confidence from the Helm
In an era when executive skin in the game is more often promised than proven, PyroGenesis Canada Inc. (TSX: PYR | OTCQX: PYRGF | FRA: 8PY1) stands out. CEO P. Peter Pascali has now personally invested over $10 million into the Montreal-based cleantech company, underlining a rare and compelling alignment between management conviction and shareholder interest.
The move comes amid a string of key developments for the company, including a growing $55 million contract backlog, expanding adoption of its proprietary plasma torch technologies, and recent success in producing fumed silica — a widely used industrial material — in a cleaner, more efficient way. In fiscal year 2024, the company achieved $15.7 million in revenue, marking a 27% increase over the previous year and signaling a strong return to growth across its core business segments.
PyroGenesis, a global leader in all-electric plasma solutions, operates at the intersection of industrial decarbonization, waste remediation, and advanced materials manufacturing. Its systems are being commercialized across sectors ranging from aluminum and defense to additive manufacturing and hazardous waste destruction — including aboard U.S. Navy aircraft carriers.
Strategic Milestones Backed by Founder Commitment
In a recent interview, Pascali addressed his continued investment directly, revealing that beyond recent financings, his total personal contribution now exceeds $10 million.
“I’ve increased my personal holdings over the years and reinvested heavily in the business because I believe in our long-term trajectory. This isn’t just about optics — I’m putting real capital to work,” said Pascali.
While most CEOs receive compensation in options or warrants, Pascali’s recent $5.75 million financing — in the form of a loan to the company — included no common shares. Instead, he accepted warrants as part of the package, providing upside only if the share price increases.
“I benefit only if the company succeeds. That’s the message I want to send — this isn’t about short-term gains; it’s about building something enduring,” he added.
Fumed Silica: A Breakthrough in Clean Production
One of the company’s most exciting breakthroughs is in fumed silica, a versatile material found in thousands of products — from toothpaste and cosmetics to fiber optics and lithium batteries.
In partnership with HPQ Silicon’s subsidiary, Polvere, PyroGenesis has developed a pilot-scale reactor that converts quartz into fumed silica in a single, cleaner, and more energy-efficient step — potentially eliminating hazardous chemicals and reducing energy use versus traditional methods.
Recent independent lab results confirmed that the powder produced in PyroGenesis’ system is indeed high-quality fumed silica, aligning closely with commercial standards used by industry leader Evonik.
Why This Matters:
Traditional fumed silica production is energy-intensive and environmentally harmful. PyroGenesis’ system reduces:
Capital and operating costs
CO₂ emissions
Use of hazardous feedstocks
This could disrupt a high-volume, $1+ billion global industry. Next steps include refining purity and scaling output to 50 tonnes per year — a key commercial milestone. Notably, Evonik has signed an LOI to assess samples, signaling high-level industry validation.
Electrification of Heavy Industry: Plasma Torch Adoption Accelerates
Beyond materials, PyroGenesis is pushing forward on industrial electrification using its patented plasma torch systems. These torches offer a drop-in replacement for fossil-fuel-based burners in high-temperature manufacturing environments like aluminum and steel.
Key Highlights:
Plasma torches demonstrated 45% energy savings versus legacy diesel burners
In certain trials, melting time decreased by 30%, significantly boosting productivity
Major clients include Norsk Hydro, one of the world’s largest aluminum producers, and GE Vernova, with whom PyroGenesis is exploring long-term co-development
These wins are particularly significant because they stem from rigorous, long-cycle evaluations by billion-dollar companies — further proof of the robustness and scalability of PyroGenesis’ technology.
Diversified Business Model Built for Resilience
Rather than relying on a single product or market, PyroGenesis has built a multi-legged platform, delivering solutions across three verticals:
Energy Transition & Emission Reduction
Commodity Security & Optimization
Waste Remediation
This diversified approach offers built-in stability. Should one product line underperform, others can support continued growth — a strategic model that few small-cap companies have executed successfully.
The company’s client base is equally diversified, with customers across North America, Europe, and the Middle East. Its business is also insulated from many trade-policy shocks, thanks to flexible global operations and contracts largely denominated in USD or Euros.
Conclusion: A Rare Small-Cap with Vision, Validation, and Velocity
In a market full of speculative narratives, PyroGenesis offers something different: execution.
Double-digit revenue growth year-over-year
A $55M+ contract backlog with Tier-1 clients
Successful lab-to-pilot transition in fumed silica
Early adoption of plasma torch electrification
And perhaps most important — a CEO with over $10 million of personal capital at stake
PyroGenesis may not yet be a household name, but with multiple industrial revolutions underway — from decarbonization to reshoring of critical materials — it’s a company worth watching.
As Pascali put it, “This is serious work. And we’re just getting started.”
This record is published on behalf of the featured company or companies mentioned (Collectively “Clients”), which are paid clients of Agora Internet Relations Corp or AGORACOM Investor Relations Corp. (Collectively “AGORACOM”)
AGORACOM.com is a platform. AGORACOM is an online marketing agency that is compensated by public companies to provide online marketing, branding and awareness through Advertising in the form of content on AGORACOM.com, its related websites (smallcapepicenter.com; smallcappodcast.com; smallcapagora.com) and all of their social media sites (Collectively “AGORACOM Network”) . As such please assume any of the companies mentioned above have paid for the creation, publication and dissemination of this article / post.
You understand that AGORACOM receives either monetary or securities compensation for our services, including creating, publishing and distributing content on behalf of Clients, which includes but is not limited to articles, press releases, videos, interview transcripts, industry bulletins, reports, GIFs, JPEGs, (Collectively “Records”) and other records by or on behalf of clients. Although AGORACOM compensation is not tied to the sale or appreciation of any securities, we stand to benefit from any volume or stock appreciation of our Clients. In exchange for publishing services rendered by AGORACOM on behalf of Clients, AGORACOM receives annual cash and/or securities compensation of typically up to $125,000.
Facts relied upon by AGORACOM are generally provided by clients or gathered by AGORACOM from other public sources including press releases, SEDAR and/or EDGAR filings, website, powerpoint presentations. These facts may be in error and if so, Records created by AGORACOM may be materially different. In our video interviews or video content, opinions are those of our guests or interviewees and do not necessarily reflect the opinion of AGORACOM.
From time to time, reference may be made in our marketing materials to prior Records we have published. These references may be selective, may reference only a portion of an article or recommendation, and are likely not to be current. As markets change continuously, previously published information and data may not be current and should not be relied upon.
NO INVESTMENT ADVICE
This record, and any record we publish by or on behalf of our clients, should not be construed as an offer or solicitation to buy or sell products or securities.
You understand and agree that no content in this record or published by AGORACOM constitutes a recommendation that any particular security, portfolio of securities, transaction, or investment strategy is suitable or advisable for any specific person and that no such content is tailored to any specific person’s needs. We will never advise you personally concerning the nature, potential, advisability, value or suitability of any particular security, portfolio of securities, transaction, investment strategy, or other matter.
Neither the writer of this record nor AGORACOM is an investment advisor. Both are neither licensed to provide nor are making any buy or sell recommendations. For more information about this or any other company, please review their public documents to conduct your own due diligence.
Posted by Alavaro Coronel
at 5:32 PM on Friday, May 16th, 2025
HIGHLIGHTS
Scale-Up Success: The pilot unit marks a 20x scale increase from lab-scale and confirms the ability to produce and recover material in a commercial-style process.
Testing in Progress: Independent lab work is underway to determine whether the material is fumed silica and assess its purity. Initial results are expected within days.
Strategic Partnership: HPQ Silica Polvere previously signed an LOI with Evonik, one of the world’s largest silica producers, for potential collaboration pending successful material evaluation.
Commercial-Scale Capacity: The pilot reactor is designed to produce up to 50 tonnes per year, enabling consistent test runs and pre-commercial sample generation.
VISUAL CONFIRMATION, INDEPENDENT TESTING AND COMMERCIAL SCALE PROMISE
HPQ Silicon $HPQ $HPQFF announced a pivotal achievement in their fumed silica pilot project: the successful production and collection of white powder material from the reactor’s product recovery unit—commonly referred to as the “baghouse.” Early visual analysis suggests this may be commercial-grade fumed silica, pending confirmation through independent laboratory testing now underway.
This is the first time HPQ’s proprietary one-step, low-emission process has produced and recovered material at pilot scale, a significant leap forward in validating a system designed to disrupt a $2.2 billion market dominated by energy-intensive legacy methods.
“Saying we’re excited by the results would be an understatement. Achieving these outcomes so early in the testing phase significantly boosts our confidence in our ability to replicate this milestone and consistently produce commercial-quality material,” said Bernard Tourillon, President & CEO
TRADE RESUMPTION
HPQ’s trading status was recently reinstated for Tuesday, May 20, 2025 following a brief cease trade order related to disclosure housekeeping. Regulators found no material issues in the company’s audited financials. HPQ also transitioned from Tier 1 to Tier 2 issuer status on the TSX-V—an administrative change with no operational impact.
LOOKING AHEAD
Should the ongoing tests validate what early signs suggest, HPQ Silicon may be on the verge of a breakthrough that significantly reduces the cost and carbon footprint of producing fumed silica.
“We’ve proven the system can be scaled—now it’s about optimization and commercialization,” said Bernard Tourillon, CEO.
With a functioning pre-commercial unit, high-level strategic interest, and validation now in progress, HPQ is positioning itself to challenge the status quo in advanced material manufacturing.
Posted by Brittany McNabb
at 3:38 PM on Thursday, May 15th, 2025
The biopharmaceutical company’s legal action against major financial institutions underscores the persistent issue of spoofing in financial markets.
Introduction
Quantum BioPharma Ltd. (NASDAQ: QNTM), a biopharmaceutical company focused on developing treatments for neurodegenerative disorders, has filed a lawsuit seeking over $700 million in damages. The legal action alleges that CIBC World Markets and RBC Dominion Securities engaged in market manipulation practices, specifically spoofing, which artificially depressed Quantum’s stock price between January 2020 and August 2024.
Understanding Spoofing and Its Impact
Spoofing is a deceptive trading practice where traders place large orders with the intent to cancel them before execution, creating a false impression of demand or supply. This manipulates market prices and can mislead other investors. The practice was outlawed under the Dodd-Frank Act in 2010 due to its potential to disrupt market integrity.
In Quantum’s case, the company alleges that such spoofing tactics led to a significant decline in its stock value, which was trading above $460 per share in January 2020. The purported manipulation not only affected the company’s market capitalization but also potentially harmed investors who relied on transparent market operations.
Legal Proceedings and Representation
Quantum BioPharma has engaged the law firms Christian Attar and Freedman Normand Friedland LLP to represent its case on a contingency basis. This arrangement indicates the legal teams’ confidence in the merits of the case and ensures that Quantum can pursue the lawsuit without immediate financial burden.
The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York, accuses the defendants of violating multiple sections of the Securities Exchange Act. Quantum has also invited shareholders who believe they were affected by the alleged spoofing to share their experiences, aiming to document the broader impact on investor confidence and market fairness.
Advancements in Multiple Sclerosis Treatment
Amidst the legal battle, Quantum continues to advance its clinical programs. The company’s lead compound, Lucid-MS, is a first-in-class, non-immunomodulatory, neuroprotective treatment for multiple sclerosis (MS). Unlike traditional MS therapies that suppress the immune system, Lucid-MS aims to protect and restore the myelin sheath surrounding nerve fibers, addressing the root cause of the disease.
In February 2025, Quantum announced the completion of its Phase 1 clinical trial for Lucid-MS, reporting that the treatment was well-tolerated with no serious adverse events. The company is now preparing to initiate Phase 2 trials, bringing it closer to offering a novel therapeutic option for MS patients.
Conclusion
Quantum BioPharma’s lawsuit against major financial institutions brings to light the ongoing challenges of ensuring market integrity in the face of sophisticated trading manipulations like spoofing. As the company seeks justice through legal channels, it remains committed to its mission of developing innovative treatments for debilitating diseases, exemplified by the progress of Lucid-MS.
Investors and industry observers will be closely monitoring the outcomes of both the legal proceedings and the clinical advancements, as they hold significant implications for market practices and medical breakthroughs alike.
This record is published on behalf of the featured company or companies mentioned (Collectively “Clients”), which are paid clients of Agora Internet Relations Corp or AGORACOM Investor Relations Corp. (Collectively “AGORACOM”)
AGORACOM.com is a platform. AGORACOM is an online marketing agency that is compensated by public companies to provide online marketing, branding and awareness through Advertising in the form of content on AGORACOM.com, its related websites (smallcapepicenter.com; smallcappodcast.com; smallcapagora.com) and all of their social media sites (Collectively “AGORACOM Network”) . As such please assume any of the companies mentioned above have paid for the creation, publication and dissemination of this article / post. You understand that AGORACOM receives either monetary or securities compensation for our services, including creating, publishing and distributing content on behalf of Clients, which includes but is not limited to articles, press releases, videos, interview transcripts, industry bulletins, reports, GIFs, JPEGs, (Collectively “Records”) and other records by or on behalf of clients. Although AGORACOM compensation is not tied to the sale or appreciation of any securities, we stand to benefit from any volume or stock appreciation of our Clients. In exchange for publishing services rendered by AGORACOM on behalf of Clients, AGORACOM receives annual cash and/or securities compensation of typically up to $125,000.
Facts relied upon by AGORACOM are generally provided by clients or gathered by AGORACOM from other public sources including press releases, SEDAR and/or EDGAR filings, website, powerpoint presentations. These facts may be in error and if so, Records created by AGORACOM may be materially different. In our video interviews or video content, opinions are those of our guests or interviewees and do not necessarily reflect the opinion of AGORACOM.
