Core Viewpoint - Volato Group, Inc. and M2i Global, Inc. are launching a public-private initiative to establish the United States' first Strategic Minerals Reserve (SMR) to secure critical minerals essential for national defense and clean energy [2][4][5] Group 1: Strategic Minerals Reserve Overview - The SMR will be located at the Hawthorne Army Depot in Mineral County, Nevada, focusing on the storage, refining, and distribution of critical minerals such as gallium, graphite, and copper [3][6] - The initiative aims to address the U.S. supply chain for critical minerals, which are vital for defense systems, semiconductors, electric vehicles, and battery technology [3][5] Group 2: Economic and National Security Implications - The project is expected to revitalize the Hawthorne region, create high-quality jobs, and attract federal investment, thereby enhancing national security through a localized supply chain [6][7] - Nevada's rich resources in critical minerals present an opportunity for innovation and economic growth, while also addressing threats from international market manipulation [5][9] Group 3: Public-Private Partnership Model - The SMR is supported by federal agencies including the Department of Defense, the Defense Logistics Agency, and the Department of Energy, and is engaging with private-sector partners to enhance domestic refining and recycling capabilities [8][10] - This initiative serves as a model for how state governments can align with national priorities to foster innovation and attract long-term investments in emerging sectors [9][10]

Core Viewpoint - Volato Group, Inc. and M2i Global, Inc. are launching a public-private initiative to establish the United States' first Strategic Minerals Reserve (SMR) in Mineral County, Nevada, aimed at securing the supply of critical minerals essential for defense, clean energy, and industrial leadership [2][3]. Group 1: Strategic Minerals Reserve Overview - The SMR will be located at the Hawthorne Army Depot in Nevada and will focus on storing, refining, and distributing critical minerals such as gallium, graphite, and copper, which are vital for defense systems, semiconductors, electric vehicles, and battery technology [3][4]. - The initiative is backed by a report from the Hoover Institution advocating for a U.S.-led multilateral critical minerals stockpile and involves collaboration with federal and state agencies, including the Nevada Governor's Office of Economic Development [4][5]. Group 2: Economic and National Security Implications - The SMR is expected to revitalize the Hawthorne region, create high-quality jobs, and attract federal investment, thereby enhancing national security through a localized supply chain [6]. - The initiative is described as a strategic capability rather than a mere stockpile, emphasizing the importance of innovation, industry, and infrastructure in securing the U.S. economic and national future [7]. Group 3: Public-Private Partnership Model - The SMR is supported by federal agencies such as the Department of Defense, the Defense Logistics Agency, and the Department of Energy, and is actively engaging with private-sector and international partners to enhance domestic refining and recycling operations [8][9]. - This initiative serves as a model for how state governments can align with national priorities to foster innovation, attract long-term investment, and lead in emerging sectors [9]. Group 4: Operational Capabilities - The SMR will feature secure storage and logistics at a federally controlled site with access to rail and intermodal infrastructure, refining and recycling capabilities to address domestic processing gaps, and ethical sourcing from U.S.-allied nations [10]. - The initiative will also incorporate AI forecasting tools to predict future material needs and optimize inventory, alongside workforce development through partnerships with local universities and training centers [10].

Core Insights - Wheels Up Experience Inc. has sold three non-core services businesses for approximately $20 million, aiming to reinvest the proceeds into fleet modernization and general corporate purposes [1][2] - The divestiture is part of a broader strategy to enhance operational performance, streamline business operations, and strengthen the company's balance sheet, with an estimated $50 million in cost efficiencies expected from recent initiatives [2] Company Overview - Wheels Up is a leading provider of on-demand private aviation in the U.S., featuring a diverse fleet and a global network of safety-vetted charter operators, emphasizing safety and service [3] - The company offers charter and membership programs, along with commercial travel benefits through a partnership with Delta Air Lines, and also provides cargo services to various clients, including government organizations [3]

Core Insights - M2i Global has appointed Jon Najarian to its Advisory Board, bringing significant expertise in capital markets and trading [1][3] - The collaboration aims to establish a complete global value supply chain for critical minerals, reducing reliance on foreign sources, particularly China [3] - The appointment coincides with M2i Global's merger with Volato Group, creating a dual-platform growth company focused on critical minerals and aviation software [3] Company Overview - M2i Global specializes in developing and executing a global value supply chain for critical minerals, ensuring access for national defense and economic security [9][10] - Volato Group is a technology-driven private aviation company that offers innovative solutions in aviation software and on-demand flight access [8] - Both companies are working towards creating a Strategic Mineral Reserve in partnership with the U.S. Federal Government to address global shortages of essential minerals [10] Leadership Background - Jon Najarian has extensive experience in trading and capital markets, having founded Mercury Trading and co-founded optionMONSTER and tradeMONSTER [4][5][6] - He has been a prominent media personality, contributing to various financial news programs and is recognized as an options trading expert [7][6]

Core Insights - Wheels Up Experience Inc. reported a focus on improving financial performance and customer experience through strategic realignment of its product, fleet, and operations, particularly in collaboration with Delta Air Lines [4][6][8] Financial Performance - Revenue for Q2 2025 was $189.6 million, a decrease of 3% year over year [7][9] - Total Gross Bookings for Q2 2025 were $261.9 million, consistent with the previous year [6][7] - Private Jet Gross Bookings decreased by 4% to $208.3 million compared to Q2 2024 [6][7] - Gross profit improved by $13.2 million year over year, reaching $2.2 million [7][8] - Adjusted Contribution was $23.1 million, with an Adjusted Contribution Margin of 12.2%, up 4 percentage points year over year [7][9] Operational Metrics - Live Flight Legs decreased by 7% to 11,971 in Q2 2025 [6][9] - Private Jet Gross Bookings per Live Flight Leg increased by 3% to $17,403 [6][9] - Utility increased by 10% to 41.1 hours [6][9] - Completion Rate remained stable at 98% [6][9] - On-Time Performance decreased to 88% from 91% in the previous year [6][9] Strategic Initiatives - The company is modernizing its fleet, with premium jets comprising approximately 20% of the controlled fleet [8] - Plans to add three Challenger 300 aircraft into revenue service in Q3 2025 [8] - Sold or completed lease returns on 31 legacy aircraft in the first half of 2025 [8] - Corporate membership fund sales exceeded expectations, increasing over 25% year over year [8] - Initiatives are expected to drive approximately $50 million in annual cash cost savings through efficiency and productivity improvements [8] Cash Flow and Balance Sheet - Net cash used in operating activities was $110.8 million for the six months ended June 30, 2025 [22] - Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the period were $107 million, down from $216.4 million [21][22] - Total assets decreased to $1.005 billion from $1.158 billion [21][22]

ATLANTA, July 31, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Wheels Up Experience Inc. (NYSE: UP) today announced that it will release its second quarter 2025 financial results on Thursday, August 7, 2025. Earnings materials will be available on the Wheels Up investor relations website at investors.wheelsup.com. Investors: [email protected] Media: [email protected] About Wheels Up SOURCE Wheels Up Wheels Up is a leading provider of on-demand private aviation in the U.S. with a large, diverse fleet and a global network of safety- ...

Proposed Business Combination Will Create a Public Company that Aligns with U.S. Mineral Independence Strategy Atlanta, GA and Reno, NV, July 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Volato Group, Inc. ("Volato") (NYSE American: SOAR), a technology-driven private aviation company and M2i Global, Inc. ("M2i Global") (OTCQB: MTWO), a company specializing in the development and execution of a complete global value supply chain for critical minerals, today announced the signing of a definitive business combination agreemen ...

Core Insights - Creatd, Inc.'s aviation subsidiary, Flyte, has launched the Flyte Jet Card, a premium loyalty program aimed at enhancing the private aviation experience for frequent flyers [3][5] - The program offers guaranteed jet access, fixed hourly rates, and no hidden fees, catering to high-frequency travelers [5][6] - Flyte Jet Card introduces Bitcoin as a payment option, showcasing the company's commitment to financial flexibility and innovation [3][6] Company Strategy - The launch of the Flyte Jet Card aligns with Creatd's broader strategy to expand its digital asset infrastructure and build a long-term Bitcoin treasury position [3][6][7] - The program is designed to meet the needs of clients who prioritize reliability, efficiency, and luxury in their travel experiences [7] - Flyte aims to position itself at the intersection of convenience, technology, and financial innovation, appealing to high-net-worth individuals [7] Company Overview - Creatd, Inc. focuses on investments and operations across various sectors, including technology, media, aviation, advertising, and consumer markets [8] - Flyte, as an air mobility company, is redefining private air travel through AI-powered infrastructure and user-centered design [9]

Core Insights - Creatd, Inc. has launched the Flyte Jet Card, a premium loyalty program aimed at enhancing the private aviation experience for frequent flyers [1][4] - The program offers guaranteed aircraft availability, fixed hourly pricing, and complementary services, catering to high-frequency travelers [2][6] - Flyte Jet Card accepts Bitcoin as a payment method, positioning Flyte as a leader in private aviation that embraces cryptocurrency [3][6] Company Overview - Creatd, Inc. operates across various sectors including technology, media, aviation, advertising, and consumer markets, focusing on small-cap companies to drive growth [5] - Flyte, Inc. is redefining private air travel through AI-powered infrastructure and user-centered design, offering services like Flyte Hops and Flyte Luxe [6]

Core Insights - Volato Group, Inc. has completed the sale of GC Aviation, Inc. for $2 million in cash, aligning resources towards high-growth technology and aircraft trading initiatives [1][2] - The divestiture is part of Volato's strategy to focus on scalable, technology-enhanced solutions while transferring operational responsibilities to third-party operators [2][3] - Proceeds from the sale will be reinvested into growth initiatives within Mission Control, Vaunt, and the company's expanding aircraft trading and leasing platforms [2][3] Company Strategy - The decision to divest GC Aviation is aimed at concentrating on areas with the highest growth potential and strongest returns, allowing for more effective capital deployment and a strengthened balance sheet [3] - Volato continues to enhance its offerings through proprietary technologies such as Mission Control software and the Vaunt experiential travel platform, which support a capital-efficient operating model [3][4] Business Overview - Volato is a technology-driven private aviation company that provides innovative solutions in aviation software and on-demand flight access [4] - The Mission Control software enhances operational efficiency and supports various services including fractional ownership and charter [4] - The Vaunt platform connects travelers with available private flights, offering flexible options for on-demand travel [4]