Scaling New Heights – Three Stocks on the Rise

By Gary Silver

As we step into the new year, three stocks have caught the attention of investors with remarkable surges, hitting their 52-week highs and showcasing impressive growth stories. Let’s dive into the details of Soleno Therapeutics (SLNO), Ambrx Biopharma (AMAN), and NeuroPace, Inc. (NPCE).

1. SLNO (Soleno Therapeutics, Inc.) – A Striking Surge to the Summit

Soleno Therapeutics has witnessed an extraordinary surge of 2,207.73%, reaching its 52-week high at $41.77. This significant leap comes amid an announcement regarding inducement grants under Nasdaq Listing Rule 5635(c)(4).

Soleno Therapeutics disclosed the grant of inducement awards to three new employees, with options having an exercise price of $36.70 per share. The vesting period spans four years, with 25% of the shares vesting on the one-year anniversary of the grant date and subsequent monthly vesting. The announcement reflects the company’s commitment to attracting and retaining top talent to drive its mission forward.

2. AMAN (Ambrx Biopharma, Inc.) – Elevating Scientific Advancements through Acquisition

AMAN, the stock of Ambrx Biopharma, has experienced an impressive surge of 2,052.34%, reaching its 52-week high. The catalyst behind this surge is Ambrx’s announcement of a definitive agreement for acquisition by Johnson & Johnson.

Under the agreement, Johnson & Johnson will acquire all outstanding shares of Ambrx for $28.00 per share in cash, representing a remarkable 105% premium to Ambrx’s closing stock price on January 5, 2024. Daniel J. O’Connor, CEO of Ambrx, expressed excitement about advancing scientific research in treating cancers with high unmet needs. This acquisition marks a significant milestone in Ambrx’s journey, combining two decades of scientific work with the talent, hard work, and innovation of the Ambrx team.

3. NPCE (NeuroPace, Inc.) – Paving the Way in Neurological Solutions

NPCE has surged by 683.93%, hitting its 52-week high, as revealed in a recent announcement providing preliminary unaudited revenue for the fourth quarter and full year 2023, along with notable business updates.

The preliminary unaudited revenue for Q4 2023 is expected to be between $17.5 million and $18.0 million, representing a substantial growth of 37% to 41% compared to the same quarter in 2022. The total full-year revenue for 2023 is anticipated to be between $64.9 million and $65.4 million, surpassing the initial revenue guidance of $50-$52 million. These figures underscore the company’s impressive financial performance.

Additionally, NPCE has successfully completed both enrolling and implanting the required number of patients for FDA submission in its NAUTILUS pivotal trial for idiopathic generalized epilepsy (IGE), achieving this milestone more than a quarter early. The cash and short-term investments balance as of December 31, 2023, is expected to be $66.5 million, further fortifying NeuroPace’s position in the market.

In conclusion, these three stocks have not just hit their 52-week highs; they have soared to new heights, driven by strategic acquisitions, business updates, and financial achievements. Investors keen on dynamic and significant growth stories should keep a close eye on Soleno Therapeutics, Ambrx Biopharma, and NeuroPace, Inc. as they navigate the evolving landscape of their respective sectors.