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SEALSQ p(LAES) - 2024 Q4 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - SealSQ reported a revenue of $11 million for FY 2024, a significant decrease from $30 million in 2023, reflecting a transition from traditional semiconductors to next-generation quantum-resistant chips [4][16] - The company experienced a net loss of $21 million for the year, primarily due to the migration from traditional semiconductor products and reduced demand during the transition [18] - Cash reserves peaked at over $90 million as of January 6, 2025, up from approximately $85 million at the end of 2024, indicating a strong financial position [15] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The transition to post-quantum security technology involved a $5 million investment in 2024, with an additional $7.2 million planned for 2025 [6][18] - Combined bookings for the year reached $6.8 million, reflecting strong year-to-year growth, while the projected contract pipeline over the next three years stands at $93 million [9][30] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The post-quantum cybersecurity market is projected to grow from an estimated market size of $302.5 million in 2024 to $1.8 billion by 2025, with a CAGR of 44.2% [9][12] - The company is positioned to capitalize on the emerging opportunities in post-quantum security due to high entry-level barriers for competitors [10] Company Strategy and Development Direction - SealSQ's strategy includes the commercial launch of post-quantum chips, expansion of chip personalization services, and strategic acquisitions to enhance capabilities [33][34] - The company is focused on securing large-scale contracts with government and enterprise clients adopting post-quantum cryptographic solutions, including defense contracts in Europe [11][12] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management anticipates a significant revenue increase in 2025 compared to 2024, driven by new sources of chip revenue and the integration of chip personalization services [9][11] - The company expects the full impact of growth initiatives to materialize in 2026, with the commercial launch of new products scheduled for Q4 2025 [20][21] Other Important Information - SealSQ is investing in startups engaged in quantum computing and AI initiatives, with a $20 million fund allocated for this purpose [22] - The company is in the process of acquiring IC'ALPS, a leading ASIC design company, which will enhance its capabilities in chip design [25][35] Q&A Session Summary Question: Will 2025 revenue growth come from new sources of chip revenue and chip personalization services? - Management indicated that while some customers are sitting on strong inventories of previous generation chips, there will be normalization as new customers emerge through the personalization center [41][42] Question: What is the meaningful portion of the 2025 R&D spending increase? - The increase in R&D spending is largely attributed to expensive certification processes and the need to recruit high-level expertise for integrating new technologies [51][52] Question: What is the historical win rate of the $93 million pipeline? - Management noted that the pipeline includes clients at various stages, with a tendency for clients to become long-term due to the sticky nature of post-quantum chip contracts [63][67]