ReShape Lifesciences (RSLS) - 2018 Q4 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - For the year ended 2018, the company reported total revenue of $2.8 million, with ongoing revenues of $607,000, which included $450,000 from LAP-BAND for a 14-day period and $156,000 from the vBloc product line [35][36] - The gross profit for 2018 was $442,000, resulting in a gross margin of 73%, a significant increase from 41% in 2017, driven by the higher margin LAP-BAND product line [37] - Selling, general and administrative expenses decreased to $16.3 million in 2018 from $22.8 million in 2017, primarily due to reduced headcount and lower expenditures [40] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The acquisition of the LAP-BAND product line has provided immediate revenue and gross margin benefits, with $450,000 in revenue reported for the LAP-BAND in Q4 2018 [10][39] - The ReShape Balloon business was divested due to underperformance and high operational costs, allowing the company to focus on the LAP-BAND and future products like the ReShape Vest [12][14] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company is targeting international markets, with approximately 40% of existing LAP-BAND sales coming from outside the U.S., particularly Australia [18] - The plan includes hiring sales professionals in Australia and Europe to build infrastructure and drive sales in these regions [19] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to become a leading provider of solutions for obesity and metabolic diseases, focusing on the integration of the LAP-BAND and the development of the ReShape Vest [6][21] - The strategy includes controlled expansion into new markets while preserving cash for clinical programs related to the ReShape Vest [47] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the ability to sell the LAP-BAND and has already seen a reduction in sales decline since the acquisition [11][16] - The company anticipates gross margins to remain in the 70% to 75% range throughout 2019, a significant improvement over previous quarters [38] Other Important Information - The company raised $10 million through a registered direct offering and $16 million through aftermarket stock offerings in late 2018 to support strategic initiatives [29][30] - A reverse stock split of 1-for-140 was approved and became effective on November 7, 2018, impacting the presentation of financial results [28] Q&A Session Summary Question: What is the company's strategy moving forward? - The company plans to focus on the integration of LAP-BAND and the development of the ReShape Vest while expanding into international markets [47] Question: How does the company view its financial position? - The company is working on shoring up its cash position and plans to relist on NASDAQ once it gains traction with LAP-BAND sales [27]