Core Insights - Vicarious Surgical Inc. (RBOT) has announced a software execution partnership aimed at transforming its operating model and enhancing efficiency in developing advanced robotic technology for minimally invasive surgery [1][7][10] Company Developments - The partnership is expected to improve RBOT's execution capabilities and operational efficiency by utilizing the external partner's established engineering processes, allowing internal teams to focus on core innovation and system integration [2][9] - Following the announcement, RBOT's shares fell by 3.6%, and the stock has seen a significant decline of 74.9% over the past six months, contrasting with a 1.2% growth in the industry and a 14.2% rise in the S&P 500 [3][6] - The collaboration is designed to reduce operating costs and stabilize development timelines, aligning with RBOT's cash burn guidance [1][4][10] Strategic Partnership Details - The external partner will manage a substantial portion of the software development for the Vicarious Surgical System, including robot control systems and key workflow features, which is expected to lower costs and accelerate development [8][9] - The partnership represents a structural shift in RBOT's approach to software development, aiming for a hybrid model that combines internal leadership with external execution [9][10] Market Outlook - The robotic surgery market is projected to reach $13.79 billion by 2025, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 16.5% through 2034, driven by the increasing adoption of robotic surgical procedures [11] - Factors contributing to market growth include improved surgical efficiency, reduced costs, enhanced patient outcomes, and shorter hospital stays compared to traditional surgery [11]

WALTHAM, Mass.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Vicarious Surgical Inc. (NYSE: RBOT) (the "Company†), a next-generation robotics technology company seeking to improve lives by transforming robotic surgery, today announced that it has entered into a strategic partnership agreement with a global digital engineering and software development services firm. This engagement is a central component of the Company's broader operating model transformation, designed to improve execution, increase development predictability, and re ...

Core Viewpoint - The U.S. government is accelerating the development of robotics technology, leading to a significant rise in several robotics stocks, including Nauticus Robotics and iRobot, which both saw increases of over 60% [1][5]. Group 1: Stock Performance - Nauticus Robotics (KITT) rose by 61.92%, reaching a price of $1.1700 [2][4]. - iRobot (IRBT) increased by 61.28%, with a price of $3.145 [2][4]. - Other notable performers include Vicarious Surgical (RBOT) up 15.77%, Lifeward (LFWD) up 13.18%, Serve Robotics (SERV) up 10.87%, and Richtech Robotics (RR) up 10.12% [2][4]. Group 2: Government Initiatives - The U.S. Commerce Secretary has been meeting with various CEOs in the robotics industry, indicating a push for advancements in this sector [5]. - The government is considering an executive order on robotics technology to be announced next year, emphasizing the importance of robotics in bringing critical manufacturing back to the U.S. [3][5]. - A robotics task force is being prepared by the U.S. Department of Transportation, with an announcement expected by the end of the year [3][5]. Group 3: Industry Insights - Robotics is becoming a crucial area of international competition, with rising interest from U.S. lawmakers, including proposals for a national robotics committee [3][5]. - Advances in artificial intelligence are enabling humanoid robots to process large amounts of data and handle increasingly complex tasks, positioning robots as the "physical form" of AI [3][5]. - Industry leaders believe that investing in robotics can lead to greater efficiency for workers and potentially create more job opportunities, as companies that invest in robots are likely to invest in more employees as well [3][5].

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights a significant surge in robot-related stocks, driven by potential government initiatives to advance robotics technology in the U.S. [3][5] Group 1: Stock Performance - Several robotics stocks experienced substantial gains, with Nauticus Robotics and iRobot both rising over 60% [3][4]. - Nauticus Robotics (KITT) increased by 61.92% to $1.1700, while iRobot (IRBT) rose by 61.28% to $3.145 [4]. Group 2: Government Initiatives - The Trump administration is reportedly accelerating the development of robotics technology, with the Commerce Secretary meeting various CEOs in the robotics sector [5]. - There are plans for an executive order on robotics technology to be announced next year, indicating a strong governmental push in this area [5]. - The U.S. Department of Transportation is preparing to establish a robotics working group, potentially announced by the end of the year [5]. Group 3: Industry Implications - The growing interest in robotics is seen as a critical aspect of international competition, although it may conflict with the goal of reviving U.S. manufacturing jobs [5]. - Advances in artificial intelligence are enabling humanoid robots to process data more efficiently and take on complex tasks, positioning robots as the "physical form" of AI [5]. - Industry leaders emphasize the importance of a national robotics strategy to maintain competitiveness in the emerging sector [6].

Summary of Vicarious Surgical FY Conference Call Company Overview - **Company**: Vicarious Surgical (NYSE: RBOT) - **Industry**: Medical Technology, specifically focused on robotic surgical systems Key Points and Arguments Financial Guidance - **Cash Burn Reduction**: The company reduced its cash burn guidance for FY25 from $50 million to $45 million, achieving a $5 million reduction [5][8][30] - **Operational Restructuring**: The CEO mentioned ongoing operational work and plans to provide guidance for FY26 before year-end [7][12] Leadership and Strategy - **CEO's Reflection**: The CEO, Stephen From, has been with the company for about four months and is focused on understanding the company's assets and market potential [18][19] - **Focus on Differentiation**: The company aims to miniaturize robotic systems for surgical procedures, targeting a market with less competition compared to existing platforms like da Vinci [19][22] - **Operational Reset**: A new project plan was implemented to streamline operations and improve focus, addressing previous confusion and lack of direction [23][24] Technology and Development - **Production-Equivalent System**: The company is on track to finalize a production-equivalent system by the end of 2026, with ongoing integration and testing [29][30] - **Regulatory Pathway**: The CEO anticipates filing for clinical trials in 2027, with a clear understanding of regulatory requirements [32][33] - **Single-Port Technology**: The company’s technology features a decoupled actuator system, allowing for miniaturized robotic arms with enhanced maneuverability [36][38] Market Positioning - **Target Indications**: The first surgical indication will be ventral hernia, with plans to expand into other hernia types and gynecological procedures [42][46] - **Commercial Strategy**: The company is exploring partnerships with hospitals and surgery centers to facilitate the adoption of its technology [49][52] Outsourcing and Flexibility - **Outsourcing Strategy**: The company plans to utilize outsourcing for software development to maintain flexibility and reduce fixed costs [55][57] - **Focus on Core Competencies**: While outsourcing, the company will retain core competencies in safety and integration [56] Communication and Transparency - **Improved Communication Plan**: The company has launched a communication strategy to enhance transparency about its development process and milestones [59][60] - **Regular Updates**: The CEO expressed a commitment to providing regular updates on progress, including testing and development milestones [61][62] Additional Important Points - **Focus on Training**: The company is working on making its system easier to learn for surgeons, aiming to increase the adoption of minimally invasive surgeries [40][41] - **Data Collection for AI**: The company is preparing for future AI integration by collecting data through its robotic systems [48] This summary encapsulates the key discussions and insights from the Vicarious Surgical FY Conference Call, highlighting the company's strategic direction, technological advancements, and market positioning.

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total operating expenses for Q3 2025 were $11.5 million, a 35% decrease from $17.8 million in Q3 2024 [11] - GAAP net loss for Q3 2025 was $11.1 million, or $1.86 per share, compared to a GAAP net loss of $17.1 million, or $2.90 per share in Q3 2024 [11] - Non-GAAP adjusted net loss for Q3 2025 was $11.3 million, or adjusted net loss of $1.91 per share, compared to $17 million, or $2.87 per share in Q3 2024 [12] - Cash burn rate for Q3 2025 was approximately $10.5 million, with an expectation of full year 2025 cash burn to be around $50 million [12] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Research and development expenses for Q3 2025 were $8 million, down from $10.8 million in Q3 2024 [11] - General and administrative expenses for Q3 2025 were $3.2 million, compared to $5.7 million in Q3 2024 [11] - Sales and marketing expenses for Q3 2025 were $350,000, down from $1.2 million in Q3 2024 [11] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The main priority is achieving design freeze of the production equivalent system by year-end 2026, which is essential for clinical entry and commercialization [6][9] - The company is focusing on reducing cash burn through targeted outsourcing and structural changes while preserving core technology [7][9] - A consulting firm has been engaged to perform a gap analysis and assist with outsourcing strategies, expected to be completed by the end of November [8][10] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management remains committed to transforming surgical care and emphasizes transparency in communication regarding progress and challenges [14] - The company is actively exploring opportunities to bolster its balance sheet and reduce cash burn for 2026 [12][13] - There is confidence in driving a material reduction in cash burn going forward while maintaining momentum toward design freeze [12][13] Other Important Information - The company strengthened its balance sheet with approximately $5.9 million in gross proceeds from a registered direct offering [9] - The company plans to share updates about the development of its platform through social media and its investor relations website [10] Q&A Session Summary Question: Confirmation of timeline for system built to standard for regulatory testing and clinical use - Management confirmed that the timeline for design freeze is still targeted for mid-2026, and they are working to mitigate any disruptions from outsourcing initiatives [17][18] Question: Additional details on the PREDV system and outsourcing initiative - Management clarified that the outsourcing initiative is not a restart but aims to improve manufacturability and reduce costs while maintaining the timeline [20][21] Question: Development builds and surgeon testing - Management stated that they have been conducting regular testing with surgeons, including cadaver labs, and have seen improvements in system stability and efficiency [28][30] Question: Consulting engagement duration and cost - The consulting engagement with PA Consulting is expected to be short and completed by the end of the month, with a fixed fee that was deemed reasonable [35][36] Question: Status with hospital and health system partners - Management reported strong ongoing relationships with hospital partners, with active communication and surgeon engagement [38][39]

Financial Performance - As of September 30, 2025, the company reported net losses of $39,667, compared to $49,927 for the same period in 2024, reflecting a 21% improvement in loss from operations [124]. - Net loss for the nine months ended September 30, 2025, was $39,667, a decrease of $9,630, or 20%, compared to a net loss of $49,297 for the same period in 2024 [139]. Operating Expenses - The total operating expenses for the three months ended September 30, 2025, were $11,503, a decrease of $6,252 or 35% from $17,755 in the same period in 2024 [132]. - For the nine months ended September 30, 2025, total operating expenses decreased by $10,808, or 21%, to $40,769 compared to $51,577 for the same period in 2024 [139]. - Research and development expenses decreased by $2,807, or 26%, to $7,993 for the three months ended September 30, 2025, compared to $10,800 for the same period in 2024 [133]. - Research and development expenses decreased by $5,234, or 17%, to $26,458 during the nine months ended September 30, 2025, primarily due to a $1,627 decrease in personnel-related expenses and a $4,704 decrease in professional fees [140]. - Sales and marketing expenses dropped by $858, or 71%, to $350 during the three months ended September 30, 2025, compared to $1,208 in the same period in 2024 [134]. - Sales and marketing expenses decreased by $1,806, or 51%, to $1,740 during the nine months ended September 30, 2025, mainly due to a decrease in personnel-related expenses attributed to a 33% reduction in average headcount [141]. - General and administrative expenses decreased by $2,587, or 45%, to $3,160 for the three months ended September 30, 2025, compared to $5,747 for the same period in 2024 [135]. - General and administrative expenses decreased by $3,768, or 23%, to $12,571 during the nine months ended September 30, 2025, primarily due to a $3,330 decrease in personnel-related expenses [142]. Cash Flow - Cash and cash equivalents as of September 30, 2025, were $3,164, with short-term investments of $10,250, leading to a total balance of $13,414 [148]. - Net cash used in operating activities for the nine months ended September 30, 2025, was $35,764, compared to $38,168 for the same period in 2024 [153]. - Net cash provided by investing activities for the nine months ended September 30, 2025, was $29,124, primarily from proceeds of $44,208 from sales and maturities of available-for-sale investments [156]. Company Operations and Compliance - The company has not generated any revenue as of September 30, 2025, and does not expect to do so until FDA authorization is received for its product candidate [125]. - The company completed its first controlled build of the Vicarious Surgical platform in April 2025 and a second build in August 2025, indicating progress in scalability [119]. - The company plans to file a de novo application with the FDA for use in ventral hernia procedures as its first indication [118]. - The average headcount decreased by 7% from 130 in the nine months ended September 30, 2024, to 121 in the same period in 2025 [124]. - The company received a notice from the NYSE regarding non-compliance with listing standards due to market capitalization and stockholders' equity being below $50 million, but has submitted a plan to regain compliance [121]. Funding and Valuation - The company expects to need substantial additional funding to conduct clinical trials and commercialize the Vicarious Surgical System, indicating potential dilution for existing shareholders [150]. - The company maintains a full valuation allowance against its U.S. and state deferred tax assets due to historical cumulative losses and expected future losses [145]. Accounting and Reporting - The company recognizes warrant liabilities at fair value, adjusting them at each reporting period, with changes in fair value reflected in the statement of operations [161]. - The fair value of Public Warrants is determined by their trading value, while Private Placement Warrants are calculated using the Black-Scholes option pricing model [161]. - The company is classified as an "emerging growth company" under the JOBS Act, allowing it to adopt new accounting standards within the same time periods as private companies [164]. - The company plans to utilize reduced regulatory and reporting requirements available to emerging growth companies, including exemptions from certain auditor attestation requirements [165]. - The company is a smaller reporting company and is not required to provide certain market risk disclosures [166].

Financial Performance - GAAP net loss for Q3 2025 was $11.1 million, or $1.86 per share, compared to a net loss of $17.1 million, or $2.90 per share in Q3 2024[7] - Non-GAAP adjusted net loss in Q3 2025 was $11.3 million, or $1.91 per share, compared to $17.0 million, or $2.87 per share in Q3 2024[7] Operating Expenses - Total operating expenses decreased by 35% to $11.5 million in Q3 2025 from $17.8 million in Q3 2024[7] - Research and development expenses were $8.0 million in Q3 2025, down 26% from $10.8 million in Q3 2024[7] - Sales and marketing expenses were reduced by 71% to $0.4 million in Q3 2025 from $1.2 million in Q3 2024[7] - General and administrative expenses decreased by 45% to $3.2 million in Q3 2025 from $5.7 million in Q3 2024[7] Cash and Investments - The company had $13.4 million in cash and investments as of September 30, 2025, with a cash burn rate of $10.5 million for Q3 2025[7] - Full year 2025 cash burn is expected to be approximately $50 million[5] - Cash and cash equivalents decreased from $9,737 million in December 2024 to $3,164 million in September 2025, a decline of about 67.5%[21] - Short-term investments fell from $39,360 million in December 2024 to $10,250 million in September 2025, a decrease of approximately 73.9%[21] - The company raised $5.9 million in gross proceeds from a registered direct offering in October 2025[3] Assets and Liabilities - Total current assets decreased from $51,698 million in December 2024 to $15,075 million in September 2025, a decline of approximately 71.1%[21] - Total liabilities decreased from $21,021 million in December 2024 to $15,259 million in September 2025, a reduction of about 27.5%[21] - Stockholders' equity dropped significantly from $46,698 million in December 2024 to $14,088 million in September 2025, representing a decrease of approximately 69.9%[21] - The accumulated deficit increased from $(195,935) million in December 2024 to $(235,602) million in September 2025, indicating a worsening financial position[21] - Total assets decreased from $67,719 million in December 2024 to $29,347 million in September 2025, a decline of about 56.7%[21] - Total current liabilities decreased from $7,667 million in December 2024 to $3,176 million in September 2025, a reduction of approximately 58.6%[21] - Lease liabilities, net of current portion, decreased from $12,567 million in December 2024 to $11,530 million in September 2025, a decline of about 8.3%[21] Strategic Focus - The company is focused on reducing its burn rate while maintaining development timelines[3] - The company maintained restricted cash at $936 million for both periods, indicating stability in this asset category[21]

Core Viewpoint - Vicarious Surgical Inc. is set to report its financial results for the third quarter of 2025 on November 12, 2025, after market close, with a conference call scheduled for the same day at 4:30 p.m. Eastern Time [1]. Company Overview - Vicarious Surgical, founded in 2014, is a next-generation surgical robotics company focused on enhancing surgical efficiency, improving patient outcomes, and reducing healthcare costs through innovative robotic technology [3]. - The company utilizes proprietary human-like surgical robots to perform minimally invasive surgeries, effectively transporting surgeons inside the patient [3]. - Vicarious Surgical is supported by notable investors, including Bill Gates and Khosla Ventures, and is headquartered in Waltham, Massachusetts [3].

Group 1 - Vicarious Surgical Inc. has entered into a securities purchase agreement with a single institutional investor [1] - The agreement includes the purchase of Class A common stock and pre-funded warrants in a registered direct offering [1] - Additionally, the company will issue warrants to purchase its Class A common stock in a concurrent private placement [1]