Markets

DXC Technology launches DXC Assure Smart Apps, an AI-powered suite to modernize insurance operations and enhance decision-making. Utilizing Amazon Web Services and the DXC Assure Platform, the apps integrate seamlessly with existing systems, offering self-service capabilities, AI-driven customer support, and intelligent insights. Built with DXC’s Assure BPM and enhanced by ServiceNow, the Smart Apps promise scalable workflows and rapid deployment, aiming for an 80% reduction in process design time, enabling insurers to innovate without disrupting existing investments.

Qualigen Therapeutics (QLGN) will launch C10 Cryptocurrency Asset Treasury (DAT) purchases next week. The company has established USD settlement and crypto custody accounts, but has not yet purchased any virtual currencies. QLGN views the recent crypto pullback as a deleveraging event and plans an 80/20 passive/active allocation for CXC10. They will also expand hedging tools, pursue strategic M&A, and promote C10 private and ETF products to grow assets under management. Previous market volatility included $16B in liquidations and ~$200B wiped from market cap.

On October 12, 2025, Jefferies Financial Group addressed investor concerns regarding the First Brands bankruptcy. CEO Rich Handler and President Brian Friedman issued a letter emphasizing Jefferies’ strong financial position, citing $10.5 billion in total equity and $11.5 billion in cash reserves. They highlighted a strengthened partnership with SMBC, including new credit facilities. While acknowledging a potential $45 million loss related to First Brands, Jefferies downplayed its impact and denied any prior knowledge of fraud, aiming to reassure investors of the firm’s overall stability.

Taiho Oncology and Cullinan Therapeutics presented data at ESMO 2025 on zipalertinib, an EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor, for NSCLC patients with EGFR exon 20 insertion or uncommon mutations and CNS involvement. The REZILIENT2 study showed a 31.3% intracranial ORR and 68.8% iDCR in patients with measurable CNS disease treated with zipalertinib. Median intracranial DOR was 8.1 months. The drug demonstrated manageable side effects. These results suggest potential for zipalertinib in treating this patient population with limited options, warranting further investigation.

PyroGenesis (PYRGF) addressed an inaccurate online post by a board member regarding its ongoing private placement. The post incorrectly claimed the placement was oversubscribed. PyroGenesis clarified that the placement, targeting approximately $5 million, is still in progress and not yet oversubscribed. The first tranche is expected to finalize soon. The board has reviewed the incident and implemented corrective measures, emphasizing its commitment to accurate disclosure and corporate governance. The company urges disregard of the incorrect, now-deleted, post.

Leonardo DRS has launched SAGEcore™, a software platform integrating AI, sensor technology, and edge computing for tactical applications. Designed for rapid data fusion in multi-domain environments, SAGEcore aims to provide warfighters with real-time situational awareness, enabling faster decision-making. The platform supports various tactical systems and offers capabilities like multi-sensor data fusion, AI/ML algorithm execution, and secure communication. Leonardo DRS targets key areas like counter-UAS and electronic warfare, positioning itself in the growing AI-powered defense market.

Regeneron’s DB-OTO gene therapy showed significant hearing improvements in children with OTOF-related hearing loss in the CHORD trial. 11 of 12 participants demonstrated clinically meaningful hearing gains, with 3 achieving normal hearing. The trial met its primary endpoint, and improvements were durable up to 72 weeks. DB-OTO was generally well-tolerated. Regeneron plans to file for U.S. regulatory approval later in 2025, pending FDA discussions. DB-OTO holds Orphan Drug and other FDA designations.

Ensurge Micropower (ENMPY) announced the exercise of 19,470,726 warrants at NOK 1.00 each, subscribing for an equivalent number of new shares. The company expects NOK 19,470,726 upon payment, due October 14, 2025. The Board approved the allocation and a share capital increase, pending registration with the Norwegian Register. Post-registration, share capital will be NOK 429,142,639.50, divided into 858,285,279 shares. Unexercised warrants lapsed without compensation.

Lucid Group has launched its Gravity SUV in Canada, starting with the Grand Touring model at $134,500 CDN. The electric SUV boasts seating for up to seven adults, nearly 3,400 liters of cargo space, and access to the Tesla Supercharger network via an integrated NACS port. The Gravity Grand Touring aims for up to 720km of range and 400 kW fast charging, featuring interior space akin to a full-size SUV but within mid-size dimensions.

Nasdaq has halted trading of Smart Digital Group (SDM) due to a request for additional information. This follows a previous SEC suspension of SDM trading from September 29, 2025, to October 10, 2025. The last sale price was $1.85. The reasons for both the SEC suspension and Nasdaq halt are unclear, creating investor uncertainty. Trading will resume when Nasdaq deems the information provided by SDM sufficient. Analysts speculate on potential issues ranging from revenue recognition concerns to business model sustainability. Failure to respond adequately could lead to delisting.