Lixte Biotechnology Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ:LIXT) is facing potential delisting from The Nasdaq Capital Market due to non-compliance with the minimum stockholders' equity requirement. The notification, received on August 19, 2024, indicates that Lixte's equity has fallen below the $2.5 million threshold mandated by Nasdaq's Listing Rule 5550(b)(1).
The company, which specializes in pharmaceutical preparations, has 45 days to submit a plan to regain compliance. Lixte has stated its intention to provide this plan within the given timeframe. If accepted by Nasdaq, the company may receive an extension of up to 180 days to meet the equity requirement.
Should Lixte fail to meet Nasdaq's conditions within the extension period, it retains the right to appeal before an independent panel, delaying any potential suspension or delisting until the conclusion of the hearing and any subsequent extension granted by the panel. Currently, the notice does not affect the trading of Lixte's common shares and warrants, which continue to be listed under the symbols "LIXT" and "LIXTW," respectively.
The company is actively exploring all available options to regain compliance and maintain its Nasdaq listing. However, there is no certainty that Nasdaq will grant the extension request or that the company will be able to meet the continued listing requirements in the future.
Director Compensation Policy Changes
In a recent SEC filing, LIXTE Biotechnology Holdings, Inc. announced significant changes to its director compensation policy. The company is shifting from cash payments to equity-based remuneration to preserve cash. This adjustment aligns director compensation with the company's long-term equity performance and affects all non-officer directors, including Dr. Rene Bernards. The new policy involves immediate vesting of stock options exercisable for five years.
Clinical Trial Agreement with Netherlands Cancer Institute
LIXTE Biotechnology has entered into an agreement with the Netherlands Cancer Institute (NKI) to conduct a clinical trial for its cancer drug, LB-100. The trial will assess the drug's effectiveness in treating metastatic colon cancer patients in combination with atezolizumab, a PD-L1 inhibitor owned by F. Hoffman-La Roche Ltd. LIXTE Biotechnology will supply LB-100, while Roche will provide atezolizumab and fund the trial. This collaboration aims to explore new treatment options for a challenging patient population.
Financial Overview
Lixte's market capitalization stands at $4.05 million. The company is currently not profitable, with a negative price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio of -0.98. The stock has experienced a 1-month price total return of -23.08% and a 1-year price total return of -25.93%. Despite these challenges, Lixte holds more cash than debt, potentially providing financial flexibility. The stock's Relative Strength Index (RSI) indicates it is in oversold territory. InvestingPro's Fair Value estimate stands at $2.19, above the stock's previous close of $1.8, suggesting the stock may be undervalued according to their metrics.
