Vicor (NasdaqGS:VICR) Q4 2025 Earnings call February 19, 2026 05:00 PM ET Company ParticipantsJim Schmidt - CFOJon Tanwanteng - Managing DirectorPatrizio Vinciarelli - CEOPhil Davies - VP of Global Sales and MarketingConference Call ParticipantsJustin Clare - Managing Director and Senior Research AnalystQuinn Bolton - Managing Director and Equity Research AnalystRich Shannon - Senior Research AnalystNone - AnalystNone - AnalystOperatorGood day, and thank you for standing by. Welcome to the Vicor fourth quar ...

Summary of Vicor FY Conference Call - January 16, 2026 Company Overview - **Company**: Vicor (NasdaqGS:VICR) - **Industry**: Semiconductor, specifically focusing on high-performance power components and systems Key Points Licensing Business - In 2025, Vicor achieved several milestones in its licensing business, including: - Secured a license agreement with a large hyperscaler in Q1 - Announced a $45 million settlement in Q2 - Signed a second license agreement with an OEM in Q3 [5][6] - Confidence in expanding the base of licensees is high due to successful ITC actions and a strong IP portfolio [6][16] - The company has initiated a second ITC case early in January 2026, focusing on NBM technology [7][9] - Vicor is actively protecting its IP and plans to enforce rights under its vertical power delivery patents [12][16] Product Development - The second-generation vertical power delivery (VPD) technology is being developed to meet rising current density requirements for advanced AI processes [20][21] - The Gen 5 VPD solution is on track for production launch in Q1 2026, with significant progress reported [22] - Engagements with hyperscalers and OEMs are ongoing, with expectations for product shipments into the second half of 2026 [23][26] Market Opportunities - Vicor is positioning itself for the 800-volt and 400-plus-minus high-voltage DC rack opportunities, with proprietary engines and methodologies already in production [30][31] - The automotive market is seen as a long-term opportunity, with expectations for significant contributions to revenue starting around 2029-2030 [38] - The industrial and aerospace sectors are projected to double in revenue contribution over the next several years, driven by automation and new chipsets [41] Manufacturing and Capacity - The first chip fab in Andover is expected to be filled substantially this year, with plans for a second facility being explored [43] - The second fab may support high-volume AI data center markets, but it is too early to determine if it will require dedicated manufacturing for automotive [44] - Current utilization rates in the Andover fab are under scrutiny, with expectations for margin improvements as capacity utilization increases [49] Financial Outlook - The book-to-bill ratio has improved and is now well above one, indicating a positive trend in order intake [47] - Margins are expected to increase from 65% to 70% as licensing practices strengthen and product gross margins improve with higher utilization [49] Strategic Priorities - Key priorities for 2026 include maximizing capacity in the first fab and laying groundwork for a second fab, potentially by mid to late 2027 [50] Additional Insights - The licensing model has proven effective in increasing demand for Vicor's products, with licensees motivated to use Vicor modules [14] - The company is focused on a logical sequence of protecting its IP while exploring new licensing opportunities [12][16] - Vicor's technology is positioned to address the evolving needs of the AI market, particularly in power delivery systems [20][21] This summary encapsulates the critical insights and developments discussed during the Vicor FY Conference Call, highlighting the company's strategic direction, market opportunities, and financial outlook.

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total revenue for Q3 2025 was $318 million, essentially flat year-over-year, while GMV increased low single digits [13] - Adjusted net income was $7 million, or $0.21 per share, with adjusted EBITDA of $26 million, representing a year-over-year increase of approximately 28% [17] - Gross margin improved to nearly 52%, an increase of approximately 120 basis points from Q3 2024 [16] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - U.S. e-commerce business generated $180 million, a decrease of approximately 3% compared to Q3 2024, attributed to improved promotional productivity [14] - Third-party marketplace business grew approximately 34%, with significant contributions from Amazon and Macy's [14] - School uniform sales grew over 20%, driven by a strong back-to-school season [15] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Sales in Europe decreased approximately 20% year-over-year due to increased promotional activity and macroeconomic pressures [16] - The U.S. consumer business saw a 25% increase in traffic, driven by digital channels, social media, and search [8] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on connecting with customers through an asset-light, agile business model, emphasizing high-quality solutions [4] - A long-term partnership with Delta Air Lines was secured, positioning the company as the exclusive design and manufacturing partner for uniforms [6] - The company is expanding its marketplace presence and leveraging collaborations to enhance brand visibility [10][44] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the momentum in North America and noted the positive performance in November, particularly during the holiday season [20] - The company is focused on maintaining gross margin improvements while managing promotional levels effectively [28][32] - Future guidance includes expected net revenue between $1.33 billion and $1.36 billion for the full year, with adjusted EBITDA projected to be in the range of $99 million to $104 million [19] Other Important Information - The company achieved record gross margins despite tariff challenges, reflecting disciplined execution by the supply chain team [11] - Inventory levels increased by only 3% year-over-year, indicating effective inventory management strategies [17][46] - Two key leadership appointments were announced to strengthen strategic focus and drive growth [22] Q&A Session Summary Question: What did you see in promotional levels during Black Friday? - Management noted that promotional levels were managed well, with a successful back-to-school campaign and strong early sales leading into the holiday season [28][29] Question: Can you provide an update on the licensing business and its impact for 2026? - Management expects licensing to continue growing, with new licenses set to take effect and a pipeline for additional licenses being developed [36][41] Question: How should we think about inventories going forward? - Management indicated that inventory levels are expected to remain low single digits going forward, reflecting efficient inventory management despite tariff pressures [46][48]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Net licensing revenues for Q3 2025 were $1.1 million, down from $1.5 million in Q3 2024, primarily due to cautious consumer spending and lower performance in the Halston license [14][15] - Adjusted EBITDA loss for Q3 2025 was approximately $653,000, representing a 38% improvement compared to a loss of $1 million in Q3 2024 [11][20] - The company reported a net loss of approximately $7.9 million for Q3 2025, or $2.02 per share, compared to a net loss of $9.2 million, or $3.92 per share in the prior year [19] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Direct operating costs for Q3 2025 were $2.2 million, down 23% from the prior year quarter, and year-to-date direct operating costs decreased by 36% to $6.3 million [15][16] - The Halston brand's performance has not met expectations, leading to adjustments in merchandising and design by G-III [12][19] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company has seen a decline in licensing revenues year-to-date, with $3.8 million for the current nine-month period compared to $6.5 million in the prior year, largely due to the divestiture of the Lori Goldstein brand [15][16] - The social media reach across the brand portfolio is now 46 million, with a target of reaching 100 million followers by 2026 [10] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focusing on leveraging new business opportunities with UTG, including sourcing products for retail partners and potential acquisitions [9] - Plans to launch five new influencer-led brands in 2026, diversifying into food, kitchen, home, and pet products, while transitioning supply chains to domestic production [10][40] - The company is cautious about Q4 2025 due to tariff impacts on QVC, HSN, and licensees [11] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management believes the current macroeconomic environment poses risks but is optimistic about capitalizing on the shift from linear TV to digital streaming and social commerce [9] - The company anticipates sequential revenue growth in 2026 as new influencer brands come online and existing issues are resolved [40][42] Other Important Information - The company closed a $2 million net equity offering in Q3 2025, with $250,000 used to pay down a loan [8] - As of September 30, 2025, the company had stockholders' equity of approximately $17 million and unrestricted cash of approximately $1.5 million [22] Q&A Session Summary Question: Importance of hiring Olin Lancaster as Chief Revenue Officer - Management highlighted the significance of the hire, noting Lancaster's extensive experience and the long-standing relationship with the CEO [24] Question: Mitigating tariff impacts with domestic products - Management discussed the strategic focus on domestic sourcing for food and pet products to mitigate tariff risks [25][26] Question: Resolution of disruptions with Sea Wonder and Christie Brinkley - Management confirmed that the issues have been resolved, including vendor changes and programming challenges due to HSN's relocation [30] Question: Updates on product roadmap and brand rollouts - Management indicated that new products will start hitting the market in Q1 2026, with a focus on food products and pet accessories [32] Question: Revenue ramp expectations for the next 12 months - Management outlined a roadmap for launching new influencer brands and expanding into new categories to drive revenue growth [40][41] Question: Potential revenue outlook for 2026 - Management refrained from providing specific guidance but referenced analyst reports for potential revenue expectations [47] Question: Long-term revenue targets and brand potential - Management reaffirmed the potential for significant revenue growth from new brands, particularly in the pet and lifestyle sectors [51][52]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Revenue increased by 13% year over year, with licensing revenue surging by 105% [5] - Adjusted EBITDA improved to $3,500,000, a positive swing of $6,400,000 compared to a loss of $2,900,000 in the same quarter last year [5] - The net loss included $1,900,000 in impairment charges and $2,100,000 related to a one-time settlement, resulting in an adjusted net loss of approximately $3,700,000 [6] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The licensing business is thriving, with new agreements in gaming, beauty, grooming, energy drinks, and fashion, guaranteeing $300,000,000 in minimum royalties over fifteen years for the digital business [10] - Honey Burdette brand showed strong growth with gross margins expanding, supported by a 28% increase in retail business at full price [36][38] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company is focusing on the Miami market for its new Playboy Club concept, which is expected to be a significant revenue driver [10][26] - The reintroduction of the Playboy magazine is aimed at enhancing brand relevance, with the next issue featuring 12 Playmates, marking a historic first [8] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is evolving into a licensing-focused, asset-light business, aiming to enhance brand relevance through compelling content and experiences [5][7] - Plans to relocate corporate headquarters to Miami Beach to leverage a vibrant content creation and event strategy [9][26] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the current strategy, team, and momentum to continue building on recent successes [11] - The company is focused on maintaining brand health and is selective about new licensing deals to avoid brand dilution [20][22] Other Important Information - The company has over $30,000,000 in cash on hand and a clear plan to reduce debt and lower the cost of capital [6] - Legal expenses related to litigation are expected to continue impacting EBITDA, but management is confident in their cases against former partners [40][41] Q&A Session Summary Question: Opportunity and registrations for paid voting - Management indicated that over 50% of expected registrations were achieved in the first few days without any marketing [13][14] Question: Materiality and timing of new licensing deals - Management emphasized the importance of strategic partnerships and brand health over rushing into deals, noting that annual deals exceed seven figures [18][20][21] Question: Structure and development of the Miami hospitality venue - Management confirmed that plans are in progress with a partner, focusing on remaining asset-light while exploring opportunities in other cities [25][26] Question: Impact of licensing commissions settlement on expense structure - Management noted that the settlement would reduce expenses moving forward, although specifics were not disclosed for competitive reasons [28][29] Question: Growth expectations for Honey Burdette - Management expects continued growth in the back half of the year, supported by strong retail performance [36][37]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a positive adjusted EBITDA of $2.4 million for Q1 2025, marking its first positive EBITDA quarter since 2023 [21] - There were $1 million in personnel-related costs in Q1 that have been eliminated, which would have resulted in a positive adjusted EBITDA of $3.4 million [22] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Licensing revenue increased significantly by 175% year-over-year, and even without the ByBorg deal, it was still up over 50% [33] - The ByBorg deal, effective January 1, contributes $5 million per quarter, with the first two payments already made [33] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The U.S. market represents approximately $35 million of the business, with a 10% price increase implemented to mitigate tariff impacts [12][22] - The company is seeing improvements in its China licensing business despite challenges from the tariff environment [34] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focusing on an asset-light model and aims to reduce overhead while increasing EBITDA [22][28] - There are plans to explore growth opportunities in gaming and hospitality, including potential development of a Playboy Club [23][28] - The company is also looking to expand its content licensing and media strategy, including paid voting campaigns and magazine sales [26][27] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the growth opportunities in the next few years, particularly in licensing and content [28] - The company is preparing for potential revenue recognition from multi-year deals in the gaming sector [24][35] Other Important Information - The annual meeting for shareholder voting on the second equity investment is scheduled for June 16 [17] - The company plans to release additional magazine issues and capitalize on ancillary revenue streams from its content [25][28] Q&A Session Summary Question: Expectations for Honeybird debt and gross margin changes - Management indicated that they are ahead of plan for the second quarter and expect an easy comparable from last year [9][10] Question: Impact of Chinese tariffs on gross margin - The near-term impact of tariffs is estimated at about $1 million, but price increases and changes in shipping thresholds are expected to mitigate this [10][12] Question: Plans for new product development with ByBorg - Management is excited about new designs and has a minimum guarantee of $20 million per year from ByBorg [14][15] Question: Potential around other licensing categories - Management highlighted ongoing efforts in gaming and hospitality, with potential revenue recognition expected in the second half of the year [20][24] Question: Drivers of the licensing business in the quarter - Licensing was significantly up due to the ByBorg deal and improvements in the China licensing business [33][34]

Core Insights - PLBY Group, Inc. reported Q1 2025 revenue of $28.9 million, a 2% increase from $28.3 million in Q1 2024, driven by a significant rise in licensing revenue [4][7] - The company achieved a net loss of $9.0 million, an improvement of $7.4 million compared to a net loss of $16.4 million in Q1 2024 [7][21] - Adjusted EBITDA for the quarter was $2.4 million, marking a substantial improvement from an adjusted EBITDA loss of $2.5 million in the same quarter last year [8][21] Financial Performance - Total revenue for Q1 2025 was $28.9 million, reflecting a year-over-year increase of $0.6 million, or 2% [4][21] - Licensing revenue surged to $11.4 million, a 175% increase from $4.1 million in Q1 2024, primarily due to the Byborg licensing agreement [6][21] - Direct-to-consumer revenue decreased by 13% to $16.3 million, attributed to reduced promotional activities for the Honey Birdette brand [7][21] Operational Highlights - The company transitioned to an asset-light business model, focusing on licensing the Playboy brand, which is showing positive results [3][6] - The Byborg partnership generated $5 million in guaranteed royalties in Q1, with expectations of at least $20 million annually for the next 15 years [3][6] - The relaunch of Playboy magazine in February 2025 was successful, leading to plans for additional issues and new revenue streams [3][6] Cost Management - Total operating expenses decreased by 6% to $35.1 million from $37.2 million in Q1 2024 [7][21] - The company incurred approximately $1 million in costs during Q1 2025, which have since been eliminated, indicating a focus on cost reduction [3][8] Future Outlook - PLBY Group is actively pursuing new licensing opportunities, particularly in land-based entertainment and gaming [3][6] - The company plans to publish four issues of Playboy magazine in 2026, aiming to create additional excitement and revenue [3][6]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - 2024 was a challenging year for the company, but it was necessary for repositioning to an asset-light model, with positive EBITDA starting to emerge in Q4 excluding foreign currency effects [7] - The company expects to be free cash flow positive on a full-year basis starting in 2025, following the completion of the transition of legacy adult properties to the buy board [8][36] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The buy board deal completed in Q4 significantly enhances profitability and cash flow moving forward, with a minimum guarantee of $20 million from this deal [25] - The company is focusing on fewer but larger licensing deals, particularly in the clothing sector, while also exploring new opportunities in gaming and other categories [21][24] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company is optimistic about the growth prospects in existing licensing deals and new opportunities in food categories and gaming, which historically generated significant revenue [9][22] - The relaunch of the Playboy magazine is seen as a key marketing vehicle, with plans to release four issues annually and develop new revenue streams around it [10][11] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is transitioning to an asset-light model, aiming to reduce corporate overhead and focus on partnerships with skilled operators [38] - The strategy includes leveraging the Playboy brand through various media channels, including podcasts and social media, to stay relevant with consumers [46][50] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledges potential risks in consumer spending and economic uncertainty but believes there is more upside than downside in the business [26][27] - The focus is on rebuilding revenue streams and enhancing brand visibility through innovative marketing strategies and partnerships [48][52] Other Important Information - The company plans to bring back twelve Playmates and explore sponsorship opportunities tied to the magazine and events [39][56] - Management emphasizes the importance of using the magazine as a marketing tool rather than solely for print revenue [11][47] Q&A Session Summary Question: Inquiry about revenue and licensing guarantees - Management discussed the risk assessment for non-minimum guarantee licensing revenue and expressed confidence in the pipeline set in 2024 for 2025 [18][21] Question: Discussion on corporate infrastructure and G&A - Management confirmed ongoing assessments of corporate structure post-buy board deal, aiming for a leaner, asset-light operation [32][35] Question: Rationale for additional revenue sources - Management explained the strategy to engage consumers through various content distribution channels, enhancing brand presence without significant marketing expenditure [46][50]