Nanoform Finland PLC (FRA:4YL) Q3 2024 Earnings Call Highlights: Record Deals and Improved Margins Signal Growth

Nanoform Finland PLC (FRA:4YL) reports a strong quarter with record deal signings, improved gross margins, and a robust financial position, despite challenges in the biotech funding environment.

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Nov 19, 2024
Summary
  • Revenue Growth: Positive year-on-year growth after six quarters of negative growth; sequential growth from Q2 to Q3 despite typical seasonal decline.
  • Gross Margin: Expected to return to above 90% due to insourcing of GMP QC lab, improving gross profit.
  • Operating Free Cash Flow: Positive trend continues, expected to improve in future quarters.
  • Cash and Short-term Investments: EUR 46 million in cash and short-term government bonds; no debt.
  • Number of Deals: Record number of deals signed in the quarter, maintaining 20+ level.
  • GMP Projects: Increase in proportion of GMP contracts expected in coming years.
  • Customer Projects: 17 projects added in the last nine months; record 12 non-GMP projects signed in Q3.
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Release Date: November 18, 2024

For the complete transcript of the earnings call, please refer to the full earnings call transcript.

Positive Points

  • Nanoform Finland PLC (FRA:4YL, Financial) reported a record number of proof-of-concept (POC) deals, indicating strong industry relevance and growth potential.
  • The insourcing of the GMP QC lab has significantly improved gross margins, targeting above 90%, enhancing profitability.
  • The company has a strong balance sheet with EUR 46 million in cash and no debt, providing financial stability and leverage in negotiations.
  • Nanoenzalutamide and Nanoapalutamide projects have attracted clear partnering interest, with several term sheets received, indicating strong commercial potential.
  • The company has seen a positive trend in operating free cash flow, with expectations for continued improvement in the coming quarters and years.

Negative Points

  • Despite positive growth, revenue numbers remain relatively low, with a need for significant improvement to reach desired levels.
  • The biotech funding environment remains challenging, which could impact future project signings and growth.
  • There is uncertainty regarding the number of GMP deals that can be signed in the next two quarters, which could affect revenue projections.
  • The company faces complexity in managing multiple partnerships across different regions, which could complicate commercialization strategies.
  • Some projects may become dormant due to funding issues, leading to potential delays in progress and revenue generation.

Q & A Highlights

Q: Can you provide an update on the operational KPIs and your confidence in hitting the 2024 targets?
A: Edward Hæggström, CEO: The proposals issued are at a good level, and we see momentum carrying into next year. Christian Jones, Chief Commercial Officer, added that the focus is more on upcoming deals and the increased level of commercial activity, which will be reflected in the numbers delivered by year-end.

Q: Regarding term sheets and projects, how many term sheets have been issued, and are there multiple term sheets for Nanoenzalutamide?
A: Edward Hæggström, CEO: There are multiple term sheets for Nanoenzalutamide, and we are progressing these processes to extract maximum value. Peter Hänninen, Chief Development Officer, confirmed that multiple term sheets exist for enzalutamide, and discussions are advancing in a controlled manner.

Q: How differentiated is Nanoform today compared to alternatives, particularly in technology?
A: Edward Hæggström, CEO: After five years of commercial efforts, Nanoform is well differentiated with a clear understanding of its technology. Albert Hæggström, CFO, added that the company has robust technology with 10,000 hours on the lines and has produced tablets that are much smaller than those of big Pharma companies.

Q: Can you comment on the potential for new GMP deals in the next two quarters?
A: Albert Hæggström, CFO: We expect more GMP projects in the coming quarters and years. Projects like those with Takeda could move quickly to GMP if results are favorable. Additionally, product kernels will become GMP projects as deals are signed.

Q: What is the quality of the term sheets received, and are they in line with your assumptions?
A: Albert Hæggström, CFO: The term sheets are from serious Pharma companies and are of high quality. The commercial terms and conditions are in line with our assumptions, allowing us to strike fair deals where we add value and get paid for it.

For the complete transcript of the earnings call, please refer to the full earnings call transcript.