Smartkem and Jericho Energy Ventures Extend Letter Of Intent for Proposed All-Stock Merger to Form U.S.-Owned, AI-Focused Infrastructure Company

Core Viewpoint - Smartkem and Jericho Energy Ventures have agreed to a 60-day extension of their non-binding Letter of Intent for an all-stock business combination, aiming to create a U.S.-owned AI infrastructure company that integrates energy and semiconductor technologies to meet the growing demand for AI compute capacity [1][2][3] Company Overview - Smartkem is focused on developing a new class of organic semiconductor technology, specifically its TRUFLEX® semiconductor polymers, which enable low-temperature printing processes for high-performance displays and applications in AI chip packaging [4] - Jericho Energy Ventures is positioned at the intersection of energy and AI infrastructure, utilizing its oil and gas assets to provide scalable, on-site power solutions for AI data centers [5][6] Proposed Transaction Details - The proposed transaction aims to combine Smartkem's semiconductor innovations with Jericho's scalable energy platform, potentially unlocking significant value in the converging energy and AI sectors [3] - The extension of the LOI allows both companies additional time to negotiate and secure the necessary capital and approvals for the transaction [1][3] Strategic Commentary - Smartkem's leadership expresses optimism about the merger's potential to create a powerful AI infrastructure company, highlighting the complementary capabilities of both firms [3] - Jericho's CEO emphasizes the enthusiasm for progressing towards a definitive agreement that would leverage both companies' strengths in energy innovation and semiconductor technology [3]