Birchtech Corp. (AMEX: BCHT) began trading on the NYSE American exchange following a reverse stock split and public offering of approximately 6.25 million shares at $2.40 per share, raising about $15 million. The uplisting from over-the-counter markets represents a significant milestone for the sustainable air and water treatment company. The company's board approved a 1-for-5 reverse stock split in late December to improve the stock price and support the planned uplisting. Richard MacPherson, President & CEO of Birchtech Corp., stated that this reverse stock split is expected to elevate the company's capital market profile, which the company believes will enable it to unlock access to the largest pool of institutional capital in the world.
The capital raise coincides with Birchtech receiving final judgment in its patent lawsuit dating back to July 2019. While initially awarded $57 million, the company expects the final judgment to reach $78 million. This settlement, combined with the stock offering proceeds, provides substantial resources for expansion in the water purification market and increased market share across the U.S. coal-fired power fleet. With approximately $98 million in combined settlement and offering proceeds, Birchtech has positioned itself to meet rising demand for cleaner air and water technologies. The company's transition to a major exchange listing reflects its evolving business strategy and financial growth prospects in the cleantech sector.
Birchtech anticipates gaining numerous new licenses and supply contracts, typically extending 3-5 years, as it establishes relationships with utilities using its patented technologies for mercury emissions capture. The company reports the potential to double its business with the coal-fired power fleet over the next couple of years. In water treatment, Birchtech has secured purchase orders totaling $0.9 million from a mid-Atlantic power utility after three years of development. The company also partnered with Civil & Environmental Consultants Inc. (CEC) to provide testing services to utility customers and maintains a pipeline of potential water treatment projects.
The expansion into water treatment addresses growing concerns about contaminants in water sources, particularly harmful substances like PFAS 'forever chemicals' linked to health risks including low birth rates, increased cancer risks, and high blood pressure in pregnant women. Water utilities increasingly seek more effective and affordable contaminant removal solutions. This strategic move allows Birchtech to leverage its technological expertise in a critical environmental market. The financial and legal developments collectively enable the company to scale its operations and compete more effectively in the sustainable technology industry, highlighting a pivotal shift in its corporate trajectory and market positioning.
