Lightbridge(US:LTBR)2025-05-12 21:02Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company's working capital position increased to $56.5 million as of March 31, 2025, compared to $39.9 million at December 31, 2024 [16] - Total cash and cash equivalents rose to $56.9 million from $40 million at December 31, 2024, marking an increase of $16.9 million for the first quarter [17] - Net loss for the first quarter was $4.8 million, compared to $2.8 million for the same period in 2024 [19] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total R&D expenses for the first quarter amounted to $1.7 million, up from $1 million in the first quarter of 2024, primarily due to increased labor costs and employee compensation [19][20] - Total G&A expenses increased to $3.5 million from $2.2 million in the first quarter of 2024, driven by higher employee compensation and consulting fees [20] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The nuclear energy sector is experiencing significant momentum, with increasing government support and public acceptance driving demand for nuclear power [5][12] - Major technology companies are increasingly interested in nuclear power to meet energy demands, particularly for data centers [7][13] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on executing its development plan and demonstrating the capabilities of its proprietary Lightbridge Fuel technology [8][15] - Lightbridge aims to capitalize on the growing demand for advanced nuclear technologies, particularly in the context of energy security and decarbonization goals [12][15] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management highlighted a favorable environment for nuclear energy, driven by the global imperative to achieve net-zero emissions and increasing energy security needs [12][15] - The company is well-positioned to benefit from the growing recognition of nuclear power's role in supporting energy-intensive industries [13][15] Other Important Information - The company plans to invest approximately $17 million in CapEx and operating expenditures for R&D development of its nuclear fuel in 2025 [18] - Lightbridge is exploring synergies with Ocla for potential collaboration on fuel fabrication and recycling of spent fuel [10] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can we expect to see Lightbridge receive DOE financing in the near future? - Management expressed uncertainty but indicated that the company is well-positioned for future support and is actively pursuing non-dilutive funding opportunities, including DOE funding [23] Question: Has Lightbridge gotten out of the thorium business entirely or have you just backburnered it? - Management confirmed that while they are not actively pursuing thorium-based fuel design, they still hold patents and could resume development if there is customer interest [24]