Why biotech is back: IBT portfolio manager’s view

Alvopetro Energy Ltd (TSX-V:ALV, OTC:ALVOF, FRA:A6Y0) CEO Corey Ruttan talked with Proactive's Stephen Gunnion about the company’s strong 2025 performance and growth outlook for 2026, highlighting record production, reserve expansion, and a disciplined capital allocation strategy. Ruttan described 2025 as a “transformational year,” driven primarily by the success of the 183-D4 well in Brazil’s Murucututu project and the addition of a new growth platform in Canada. The company delivered 41% year-over-year production growth and increased proved plus probable (2P) reserves by 43%, replacing production nearly five times. He also emphasized that Alvopetro returned over 45% of funds flow from operations to stakeholders while continuing to invest in growth. The company exited 2025 with record quarterly production of nearly 2,900 barrels of oil equivalent per day and continued that momentum into 2026. As Ruttan noted, “we’ve really kicked off 2026 with a very strong start… nearly 3,100 barrels of oil equivalent per day.” Alvopetro is also advancing a facilities expansion at Murucututu, targeting increased capacity up to 600,000m³ per day, alongside optimization of its natural gas processing infrastructure. At the same time, the company is progressing drilling opportunities in Canada, with over 100 tier-one locations identified. With a quarterly dividend yielding 8% and a balanced reinvestment strategy, Alvopetro positions itself as a value, yield, and growth story. The company expects continued momentum, with potential for 25% production growth in 2026. For more videos like this, visit Proactive’s YouTube channel, like this video, subscribe, and enable notifications so you never miss an update. #AlvopetroEnergy #OilAndGas #EnergyStocks #TSXV #ALV #OTCQX #ALVOF #DividendStocks #NaturalGas #BrazilEnergy #InvestorNews #StockMarket #EnergyInvesting #ProductionGrowth #OilGasIndustry

Ocean Power Technologies CEO Philipp Stratmann joined Steve Darling from Proactive to discuss the company’s financial results for its fiscal third quarter ended January 31, 2026, highlighting a record backlog and a major new government contract. The company announced it has secured a multi-buoy contract valued at approximately $6.5 million from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security in support of a United States Coast Guard maritime domain awareness mission off San Diego. Stratmann explained that the award provides multi-quarter revenue visibility, with delivery of four newly built MERROWS®-equipped PowerBuoy® systems expected to begin in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2026. The contract also supports the company’s strategic shift toward higher-margin, recurring revenue streams. The deployment will be carried out in collaboration with Anduril Industries, the project’s prime contractor. Integrating PowerBuoy® systems alongside Anduril’s surveillance towers positions Ocean Power Technologies within a next-generation, scalable defense sensing architecture in one of the United States’ most critical maritime regions. The initiative also establishes a significant relationship with both DHS and the U.S. Coast Guard. Financially, the company reported a backlog of approximately $19.9 million as of January 31, 2026, representing an increase of $12.4 million, or 165%, compared to the prior year. Its project pipeline reached $163.9 million, up $74.7 million, or 84%, from $89.2 million a year earlier. Stratmann noted that the quarter reflects strong contract momentum and positions the company at the forefront of evolving maritime security and autonomy solutions. He added that Ocean Power Technologies is helping to define a new category of scalable maritime infrastructure, enabling autonomous systems to power, recharge, and operate continuously at sea. #proactiveinvestors #oceanpowertechnologiesinc #nyseamerican #optt #PhillipStratmann, #USGovernmentContract, #USCoastGuard #MaritimeSecurity #DefenseTech #AutonomousSystems #BuoySystems #WAMV #PowerBuoy #MERROWS #USCoastGuard #HomelandSecurity #AndurilIndustries #MaritimeSecurity #DefenseTech #AutonomousSystems #CleanEnergy #OceanTech #GovContracts #EnergyInnovation #TechStocks #SmallCap #EmergingTech #SecuritySolutions #BlueEconomy #Innovation

Nextech3D.ai CEO Evan Gappelberg joined Steve Darling from Proactive to announce that its recently acquired subsidiary Kraftylabs achieved profitability in February 2026, marking its first full month of operations under Nextech3D.ai. Gappelberg highlighted that Krafty Labs generated approximately $130,000 in revenue during the month, delivering a gross margin of 66%, or about $85,000, and a net margin of roughly 55%, equating to approximately $71,000. Management believes these results validate both the quality of the acquisition and the operating leverage embedded within Nextech3D.ai’s platform-driven model. The company noted continued progress in improving operating efficiency and expanding margins, reinforcing its view that Nextech3D.ai is on track toward achieving cash-flow positive operations in 2026, subject to execution and broader market conditions. Nextech3D.ai operates a platform-centric AI technology model that supports multiple solutions across event technology, spatial computing, and enterprise applications. Unlike traditional single-product SaaS businesses, the company’s architecture is designed to capture value across multiple customer entry points and use cases, enabling scalable growth opportunities. Based on existing contracts and historical activity, Nextech3D.ai estimates its current customer base represents approximately $3.0 million in annual recurring revenue (ARR). While not all of this revenue is expected to be recognized within 2026, management believes the ARR profile underscores the scalability and durability of its recurring revenue model. #proactiveinvestors #nextech3d.al #otcqx #nexcf #cse #ntar #EvanGappelberg #KraftyLabs #ArtificialIntelligence #AI #SpatialComputing #EventTech #EnterpriseTech #SaaS #TechStocks #SmallCap #Profitability #ARR #RecurringRevenue #GrowthStocks #Innovation #DigitalTransformation #3DTechnology #EmergingTech #BusinessGrowth

Guardforce AI Co Ltd (NASDAQ:GFAI, NASDAQ:GFAIW) CEO and chairperson Lei ‘Olivia’ Wang talked with Proactive's Stephen Gunnion about the company’s acquisition of MGAI and how it supports Guardforce AI’s broader strategy to build AI-driven productivity infrastructure. Wang explained that Guardforce AI is evolving from its legacy businesses in cash management, smart retail and robotics into an AI-focused technology company, with a mission to “build AI agents as productivity infrastructure” and create a “super assistant for both personal and the professionals to make better decisions.” The acquisition of MGAI marks a move into healthcare, specifically children’s speech and language rehabilitation. Wang highlighted that MGAI is not an early-stage venture but a proven platform with “110,000 patients already served” and “20,000 rehabilitation professionals on the platform.” The company provides AI-powered tools to support therapists, standardise assessments and improve therapy management. She said the deal structure combines cash and equity, with performance-based milestones tied to revenue targets over three years. This approach limits downside risk while aligning long-term growth incentives. Wang emphasised that the acquisition fits into Guardforce AI’s wider strategy, noting that MGAI and its travel-focused AI agent DVGO are “two minds, but one strategy.” She added that further acquisitions are likely as the company builds a repeatable model for scaling AI solutions across industries. Looking ahead, Wang outlined goals including predictable recurring AI revenue, expansion across Asia, and establishing Guardforce AI as a scalable AI application company. For more videos like this, visit Proactive’s YouTube channel, like this video, subscribe, and enable notifications so you never miss an update. #GuardforceAI #MGAI #ArtificialIntelligence #HealthcareAI #DigitalHealth #AIInvesting #TechStocks #AIPlatform #RehabilitationTech #AsiaGrowth #AIAgents #ProactiveInvestors

International Biotechnology Trust (IBT) portfolio manager Ailsa Craig talked with Proactive’s Stephen Gunnion about the trust’s recent outperformance, the resurgence of biotech markets, and why merger and acquisition (M&A) activity is becoming a key driver of returns. Craig explained that after a prolonged downturn, biotech is regaining momentum, supported by improved performance and renewed investor interest. She highlighted that IBT benefited from gearing during market weakness and from multiple acquisitions within the portfolio, noting that “we have nine acquisitions out of the fund, making performance really strong.” The trust employs a flexible investment strategy, combining both top-down and bottom-up approaches while actively rotating holdings based on clinical progress and market conditions. Craig emphasized that this adaptability has enabled IBT to outperform its peer group over the long term. A major theme discussed was the acceleration in M&A activity, driven by large pharmaceutical companies facing significant patent expiries. Craig stated, “we're seeing a pickup in M&A right now because big pharma companies are facing massive patent expiry,” adding that further deal momentum is expected. She also pointed to attractive valuations in late-stage biotech firms, particularly those nearing commercialization, and noted increasing IPO activity as a sign the sector is returning to normal. With strong demand from cash-rich pharma companies and improving fundamentals, Craig suggested now is a compelling time for investors to revisit biotech. For more insights like this, visit Proactive’s YouTube channel, give this video a like, subscribe, and enable notifications so you never miss future content. #BiotechInvesting #HealthcareStocks #BiotechM&A #PharmaIndustry #StockMarketInsights #IPO2026 #BiotechStocks #InvestmentStrategy #LifeSciences #ProactiveInvestors

Ilika PLC (AIM:IKA, OTCQX:ILIKF, FRA:I8A) CEO Graeme Purdy talked with Proactive's Stephen Gunnion about the successful safety testing of the company’s Goliath solid-state batteries under battlefield conditions, highlighting a key validation from a UK defence agency. Purdy explained that the batteries were subjected to live-fire testing on a firing range, where they were penetrated by various types of ammunition to assess their response. The results demonstrated the inherent safety advantages of Ilika’s solid-state battery technology compared to traditional lithium-ion alternatives. As Purdy noted, “they are intrinsically safer because they don't have a flammable liquid electrolyte component,” which significantly reduces the risk of dangerous reactions under extreme conditions. The interview also explored the growing opportunity within the defence sector. While Ilika originally developed Goliath batteries for electric vehicles and consumer electronics, increasing global tensions and the electrification of military equipment have opened up new demand. Applications such as drones, communication systems, and intelligence devices are driving the need for safer, high-performance battery solutions. Purdy highlighted that validation from a UK defence agency is particularly important, given its influence with the Ministry of Defence. The company is now working with partners across the supply chain to convert this interest into commercial agreements and deliver returns on its technology investment. Stay tuned for more updates on Ilika’s progress in solid-state battery development. Visit Proactive’s YouTube channel for more videos, give this video a like, subscribe to the channel, and enable notifications so you never miss future content. #Ilika #SolidStateBatteries #BatteryTechnology #EVBatteries #DefenseTech #EnergyStorage #GoliathBattery #LithiumIon #CleanEnergy #DroneTechnology #MilitaryTech #BatterySafety #UKDefense #TechInnovation #ElectricVehicles

Rome Resources Plc (AIM:RMR, FRA:33R) CEO Paul Barrett talked with Proactive's Stephen Gunnion about the latest high-grade tin drilling results at its Kalayi prospect in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Barrett explained that recent drilling continues to deliver consistent tin mineralisation, reinforcing confidence in the scale of the deposit. He noted that nearly all drill holes intersect significant tin, highlighting strong continuity across the project. As drilling progresses, the company is also seeing wider intercepts, which are expected to support an increase in the overall resource estimate. Importantly, mineralisation is extending at depth, strengthening confidence in the project's potential. While this does not necessarily change the ultimate target, Barrett said it increases the likelihood of achieving meaningful resource growth. He stated: “We're getting the same grades, but we're getting thicker intercepts,” underlining the significance of recent results. With tin prices remaining strong, Rome Resources is also moving closer to development. The Kalayi licence benefits from its classification as a small-scale mining licence, which could streamline the transition into production. In addition, nearby processing infrastructure presents a potential pathway to accelerate development through partnerships. Barrett emphasised that the project could be fast-tracked, pointing to limited regulatory hurdles and ongoing discussions with neighbouring operators. For more insights into Rome Resources and its Kalayi tin project, visit Proactive's YouTube channel, give this video a like, subscribe to the channel, and enable notifications for future updates. #RomeResources #PaulBarrett #TinMining #Kalayi #MiningStocks #ResourceDevelopment #DrillingResults #JuniorMining #Commodities #TinMarket #Exploration #MiningNews

Coinsilium Group Limited (AQSE:COIN, OTCQB:CINGF, FRA:5CT) CEO Eddy Travia talked with Proactive's Stephen Gunnion about the company’s strategic move into prediction markets through its investment in Prediction Labs. Travia explained that Coinsilium has identified prediction markets as a key focus area for 2026, highlighting the sector’s rapid expansion over the past two years. He noted that the market is already valued at more than $65 billion and is expected to grow significantly in the coming years. According to Travia, “we believe it can go much higher, over the next two, three years,” underlining the company’s confidence in the sector’s long-term potential. The discussion also explored why Coinsilium is particularly interested in the intersection of blockchain and trading. Travia pointed out that many prediction platforms rely on blockchain technology to facilitate trades, record transactions, and enable cryptocurrency payments, making the space highly aligned with Coinsilium’s expertise. He also outlined why Prediction Labs’ focus on data and intelligence is especially attractive. Rather than operating purely as a trading platform, the company is positioning itself within the data infrastructure layer, which Travia said has historically delivered strong returns in both traditional finance and the crypto sector. Finally, Travia detailed the milestone-based investment approach, noting that Coinsilium will scale its stake based on technological progress, platform launch, and user growth, including adoption by institutions and AI agents. For more insights like this, visit Proactive’s YouTube channel, like this video, subscribe, and turn on notifications for future updates. #Coinsilium #PredictionMarkets #Blockchain #CryptoInvesting #Fintech #Web3 #DataPlatforms #AI #Cryptocurrency #Investing #ProactiveInvestors #MarketTrends

Transition Metals CEO Scott Mclean joined Steve Darling from Proactive to provide an update on the company’s latest project developments, financial position, and exploration plans across Canada. McLean highlighted that Transition Metals has secured a 100% interest in its Pike Warden project in the Yukon, describing it as a large and highly prospective asset with both porphyry and epithermal potential. He noted the presence of newly identified porphyry targets alongside as many as 30 significant high-grade gold and silver epithermal showings. The company is actively seeking a strategic partner to help advance Pike Warden through more capital-intensive stages, including geophysical surveys and drilling programs. Beyond Yukon, Transition Metals maintains a diversified portfolio of approximately 14 projects across multiple provinces. A key focus for 2026 is the Gowganda gold project in the Abitibi Greenstone Belt, a prolific mining region where an estimated 15 million ounces of gold have been historically discovered along similar geological structures. The company is also progressing its Saturday Night platinum-palladium project near Thunder Bay, where early drilling has confirmed widespread mineralization, supporting further exploration potential. Transition Metals reported a strong financial position, with approximately $3 million in cash, and is pursuing flow-through financing to support ongoing exploration activities without diluting core capital. With multiple active assets and planned drill programs, McLean emphasized that the company is gearing up for a busy and catalyst-rich field season in 2026. #proactiveinvestors #transisitonmetals #tsxv #xtm #mining #pikewardenproperty #ScottMcLean #PikeWarden #YukonMining #Gold #Silver #Porphyry #Epithermal #Gowganda #AbitibiGreenstoneBelt #Platinum #Palladium #ThunderBay #JuniorMining #Exploration #MiningNews #ResourceStocks #Drilling #FlowThrough #NaturalResources

ImmuPharma PLC (AIM:IMM, FRA:25I) CEO Tim McCarthy joined Stephen Gunnion in the Proactive studio to discuss the company's latest developments, including progress on its lead asset P140, a newly accelerated program for Kapiglucagon, and recent fundraising activity. McCarthy emphasised that P140 remains the company’s primary focus, with ongoing licensing discussions described as highly active. He stated, “We are delivering a deal this year. We're confident of doing that,” highlighting continued engagement with multiple potential partners, including new parties that have approached the company since late 2025. Alongside this, ImmuPharma has advanced Kapiglucagon into an accelerated development program following interest and funding support from existing shareholders. The asset, targeting Type 1 diabetes (T1D), is designed to address limitations in current glucose delivery systems. McCarthy explained that Kapiglucagon offers improved solubility and stability, making it suitable for next-generation dual hormone pumps. The company has secured funding led by Lanstead Capital Investors to support a two-year development plan, with the goal of progressing Kapiglucagon toward potential licensing discussions. McCarthy noted that early engagement with industry players has already generated strong interest. On top of the £6 million raised through a subscription with Lanstead, a further £1.5 million may be raised through a retail offer opening today via the Winterflood Retail Access Platform (WRAP), giving existing and new UK investors the opportunity to participate at the same price of 6.0 pence per share, a 13.7% discount to the previous closing price. Despite the expansion of its pipeline, McCarthy reiterated that the company’s strategy remains centred on P140, stating that “our total focus has not been diverted one iota in pushing forward those license discussions.” For more insights into ImmuPharma’s strategy and upcoming milestones, visit Proactive’s YouTube channel. Don’t forget to like this video, subscribe to the channel, and enable notifications for future updates. #ImmuPharma #TimMcCarthy #P140 #Kapiglucagon #BiotechNews #PharmaNews #DrugDevelopment #DiabetesResearch #Type1Diabetes #BiotechInvesting #HealthcareInnovation #ClinicalDevelopment #LicensingDeals #SmallCapStocks #AIMStocks