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A group of small-cap stocks trading under $1—including Datavault AI Inc., Peraso Inc., U.S. Energy Corp., Onconetix Inc., and Kartoon Studios Inc.—is drawing heightened investor attention as volume spikes align with significant corporate developments across AI infrastructure, defense technology, energy, biotech, and media.
Datavault AI (NASDAQ: DVLT) Secures $120M to Expand AI Infrastructure Nationwide
Datavault AI has executed a binding term sheet with Scilex Holding Company for a $120 million cash contribution to support the rollout of its quantum-ready SanQtum GPU platform across ~100 U.S. cities. The company estimates its edge network could generate $10B–$100B in annual revenue potential.
Combined with planned Bitcoin asset sales and receivables, Datavault projects over $200 million in non-dilutive capital. It has also secured NVIDIA GPU inventory valued at approximately $1.2 billion, positioning it for large-scale deployment as demand for AI compute accelerates. CEO Nathaniel T. Bradley appeared on “NewsNation” today, discussing the ChatGPT-related lawsuit involving Sam Altman and Elon Musk.
Peraso Inc. (NASDAQ: PRSO) Advances Military Drone Communications Technology
Peraso is gaining traction as it ramps production now in the commercialization stage following delivery of its 60GHz wireless modules for military drone Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) systems to InTACT. The milestone represents a key step toward commercialization in the growing defense and secure communications sector.
Peraso’s mmWave technology is increasingly relevant across emerging applications including autonomous drones, robotic systems, robo-taxis, and eVTOL aircraft. As demand grows for secure, high-speed, low-latency communication in contested environments, the company is positioning itself within a critical niche of next-generation connectivity infrastructure.
U.S. Energy Corp. (NASDAQ: USEG) Locks in Long-Term Helium Revenue Stream
U.S. Energy Corp. has strengthened its revenue visibility with the signing of a five-year helium offtake agreement with an investment-grade global industrial gas partner. The agreement covers production from the company’s Big Sky Carbon Hub in Montana and establishes helium as an initial contracted revenue stream within its broader multi-revenue energy platform.
With Phase 1 operations targeted for early 2027, the deal provides long-term cash flow support and underscores the strategic value of helium—a critical resource in semiconductor manufacturing, medical imaging, and aerospace applications.
Onconetix Inc. (NASDAQ: ONCO) Rebounds from 52-Week Lows on Volume Surge
Onconetix is seeing renewed trading activity as shares rebound from recent lows on increased volume. The company is focused on men’s health and oncology, with its Proclarix® diagnostic test for prostate cancer already approved in the European Union under IVDR standards.
Through its partnership with Labcorp, Onconetix is positioning for U.S. commercialization via a laboratory-developed test (LDT) pathway, which could open access to a significantly larger market.
Kartoon Studios (NYSE: TOON) Gains Momentum Amid Media Industry Consolidation
The company continues to build on its vertically integrated entertainment model, spanning content creation, production, and distribution. With strong growth from Mainframe Studios, expanding global distribution through Kartoon Channel!, and a valuable intellectual property portfolio including the Stan Lee Universe and upcoming “Winnie & Friends” franchise, Kartoon Studios is positioning for scalable revenue growth.
Additionally, with more than 60% of projected 2026 production revenue already under contract and increasing engagement across streaming platforms, the company is gaining visibility as a potential beneficiary of shifting dynamics in the media landscape. Kartoon Studios is experiencing increased trading volume and investor interest following broader media industry consolidation trends, including the approval of a major $111 billion transaction involving Warner Bros (NASDAQ: WBD) and Paramount Skydance (NASDAQ: PSKY).
Outlook: Volume Surge Highlights Cross-Sector Momentum
Across DVLT, PRSO, USEG, ONCO, and TOON, a combination of strategic partnerships, commercialization milestones, and macro industry shifts is driving increased trading activity. From AI infrastructure and defense communications to energy, biotech, and entertainment, these sub-$1 names are drawing attention as potential high-volatility movers aligned with major growth themes.