Knightscope(KSCP) - 2024 Q4 - Annual Report

Federal Contracts and Market Position - Knightscope has obtained FedRAMP Authority to Operate (ATO) in January 2024, enabling it to pursue federal contracts, including a pilot program with the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs for the K5 GOV ASR[21]. - The U.S. physical security market is projected to reach $56.8 billion by 2030, driven by technological advancements and heightened public safety concerns[29]. - The company has been awarded a Phase 1 contract from the U.S. Air Force in 2025, further solidifying its position in the federal market[44]. - The company is actively seeking additional government contracts, including a Phase 1 contract from the U.S. Air Force, which may expose it to risks such as early termination and regulatory scrutiny[122]. Product Development and Innovation - Knightscope aims to expand its installed base of Autonomous Security Robots (ASRs) through a Machine-as-a-Service (MaaS) subscription model, enhancing long-term revenue streams[41]. - The K7 Autonomous Security Robot is planned for production in 2026, designed for large environments like airports and industrial zones, enhancing automated perimeter patrolling[45]. - Knightscope's ASRs provide 24/7 monitoring capabilities, reducing reliance on human security personnel and improving incident response times[33]. - Knightscope's comprehensive suite of solutions includes ASRs, emergency communication devices (ECDs), and the cloud-based Knightscope Security Operations Center (KSOC)[191]. - The company is investing in new product development, including the K7 ASR, and has increased its R&D headcount to support these initiatives[207]. Financial Performance and Challenges - The Company incurred a net loss of$ 31.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2024, compared to a net loss of $22.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2023, with an accumulated deficit of$ 193.2 million as of December 31, 2024[62]. - Cash and cash equivalents on hand were $11.1 million as of December 31, 2024, up from$ 2.3 million as of December 31, 2023[62]. - The Company had a total backlog of approximately $1.7 million as of December 31, 2024, consisting of$ 0.4 million related to ASR orders and $1.3 million related to ECD orders[56]. - The company expects fluctuations in financial results due to various unpredictable factors, including client demand and economic conditions[76]. - The company projects operating losses and negative cash flows for the foreseeable future, raising substantial doubt about its ability to continue as a going concern[130]. Operational and Management Structure - The Company has a total of 71 full-time employees as of December 31, 2024, and is not a party to any collective bargaining agreements[58]. - The company appointed a new Chief Financial Officer and reduced approximately 40% of executive and senior leadership roles to enhance operational efficiency[203]. - The company has implemented a series of strategic and structural changes to optimize resources and reduce costs, including relocating production and renegotiating long-term client contracts[213]. - The company anticipates continued impacts from its strategic actions into 2025 as it completes transitions and drives further efficiencies across the business[208]. Competition and Market Dynamics - The U.S. security guard industry faces labor shortages, with turnover rates ranging from 100% to 400% annually, driving demand for automated solutions[29]. - The company competes with traditional public safety services, autonomous security robotics, and emergency communication systems, with key competitors including Allied Universal, Asylon Robotics, and Code Blue Corporation[51]. - Increased competition from other companies developing physical security technology may impact the company's market position[98]. - The company may face increased competition in the private security industry, which could result in reduced prices and lower gross margins[121]. Regulatory and Compliance Issues - Compliance with evolving privacy laws and regulations could limit the company's ability to deploy technologies in various markets[99]. - The regulatory framework for privacy and security is rapidly changing, potentially requiring the company to modify its business practices[100]. - The California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) imposes specific requirements on businesses processing personal information of California residents, which could affect the company's operations[101]. - Noncompliance with data protection laws like the GDPR could result in fines of up to €20 million or 4% of annual global revenues[103]. - The company is subject to the UK GDPR, which carries penalties of up to £17.5 million or 4% of global annual revenue for noncompliance[104]. Cybersecurity and Risk Management - Knightscope's management team is focused on cybersecurity risk management, with Mercedes Soria serving as the Chief Intelligence Officer and CISO, overseeing the cybersecurity program[165]. - The company utilizes external service providers to assist with cybersecurity assessments and incident response[166]. - Knightscope's cybersecurity practices include employee training and a third-party risk management evaluation process for key service providers[166]. - The company is dependent on its cybersecurity risk management program, and any security breaches could lead to significant financial and reputational damage[114]. Supply Chain and Operational Constraints - The company has experienced supply chain constraints and increased costs for materials, components, and freight due to geopolitical conflicts and inflationary pressures, which may negatively impact financial performance[127]. - The Company relies on over 100 suppliers for its manufacturing needs, with the top three suppliers being Alco Metal Fab, Sybridge Digital Solutions LLC, and E and M Electric and Machinery Inc.[48]. Stock and Financing - The company issued unsecured Public Safety Infrastructure Bonds totaling approximately$ 4.3 million, with a 10% annual interest rate starting December 31, 2024[92]. - The company may need to engage in equity or debt financings to secure additional funds for operations and product development[130]. - The company has never paid cash dividends on its Class A Common Stock and does not anticipate doing so in the foreseeable future[136]. - Future issuances of debt securities may adversely affect the return on investment from Class A Common Stock, as these securities would rank senior in bankruptcy or liquidation[138]. Asset Management and Valuation - Finished ASRs net value decreased slightly from $8,845,000 in 2023 to$ 8,765,000 in 2024, a decline of 0.9%[223]. - The total value of raw materials decreased from $3,841,000 in 2023 to$ 2,465,000 in 2024, a decline of 35.7%[223]. - The company did not record any impairment losses for ASRs or other long-lived assets for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023[224]. - The total value of finished ASRs net increased from $3,429,000 in 2023 to$ 5,978,000 in 2024, an increase of 74.5%[223].