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Ouster Inc - Ordinary Shares (OUST) Q2 Earnings call transcript Aug 13, 2024

AInvestWednesday, Aug 14, 2024 3:27 pm ET
2min read

Ouster, a leading LiDAR technology company, recently held its second quarter 2024 earnings call, highlighting solid execution and progress towards its strategic business objectives. The call was led by Chen Geng, VP of Strategic Finance and Treasurer, with Angus Pacala, CEO, and Mark Weinswig, CFO, providing updates on key operational and financial metrics.

Strong Operational Performance and Financial Results

The second quarter saw Ouster achieve a record $27 million in revenue, marking the sixth consecutive quarter of meeting or exceeding guidance. This impressive performance was underpinned by a 34% increase in GAAP gross margin, a new operating record for the company. The solid execution was also reflected in a reduction of inventory levels by over 30% and improved annualized inventory turns to over 3.5x, demonstrating a more efficient business model.

Market Expansion and Strategic Priorities

Ouster's strategic priorities for 2024 are centered around expanding software sales and growing the installed base, with a focus on the smart infrastructure and robotics verticals. The company has secured significant deals in both areas, including with Serve Robotics and leading mapping companies. These deals highlight the potential for Ouster's technology to revolutionize various industries, from delivery robots to mapping services.

Software Strategy and Innovation

Software sales were a highlight of the quarter, with Ouster's smart infrastructure software solution, Gemini, driving significant revenue growth. The company has seen a shift towards software-attached sales, which now account for roughly 1/3 of total revenues. This trend is expected to continue, with Ouster investing in software development to expand its capabilities and meet customer demands.

Financial Outlook and Balance Sheet Strengthening

Mark Weinswig provided an update on Ouster's financial results, highlighting a 39% increase in revenue over the second quarter of 2023 and a 4% increase over the first quarter of 2024. The company's focus on cost reduction and inventory management has contributed to a strong balance sheet, with $186 million in cash, cash equivalents, restricted cash, and short-term investments. This financial strength positions Ouster well for future growth and investment opportunities.

Future Outlook and Challenges

Despite some challenges, including customer schedule adjustments, Ouster remains optimistic about its future prospects. The company's strategic priorities, coupled with its innovative technology and strong balance sheet, position it for continued growth and profitability. Ouster is expected to achieve between $27 million and $29 million in revenue for the third quarter, with steady sequential revenue growth anticipated for the remainder of the year.

Investor and Analyst Interactions

Key shareholders and investors raised questions during the call, touching on topics such as gross margins, software strategy, and customer delays. Ouster's management team provided detailed responses, offering insights into the company's operational and financial performance and future growth prospects. These interactions underscored the importance of transparency and investor engagement in maintaining market confidence and driving long-term value.

Conclusion

Ouster's second quarter 2024 earnings call demonstrated a company on a clear path to growth and profitability. With a focus on software solutions, strategic partnerships, and operational efficiency, Ouster is well-positioned to capitalize on the expanding LiDAR market and drive value for its stakeholders. As the company continues to innovate and expand its offerings, it is poised to solidify its leadership position in the LiDAR technology space.

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