indie Semiconductor(INDI) - 2025 Q3 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported Q3 2025 total revenue of $53.7 million, consistent with expectations and showing solid quarter-over-quarter performance [6][15] - Non-GAAP gross margin was 49.6%, while non-GAAP operating loss was $11.3 million, improving from $14.5 million in the previous quarter and $16.8 million a year ago [15] - The company exited the quarter with total cash of $171.2 million, down from $202.9 million in Q2 2025, which included $17.7 million related to a recent M&A transaction [15][16] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The strategic backlog increased to $7.4 billion from $7.1 billion a year ago, with a stronger product mix contributing to higher gross margins [8][15] - The radar segment saw significant advancements, including the launch of a next-generation radar solution by a tier one partner, enhancing long-range detection capabilities [9] - The power group reported broader market adoption of the 10-watt Qi 2.0 wireless charging platform, with production starting at Ford in Q1 2026 [11] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The automotive market is expected to grow by 0.46% in 2026, with production projected at approximately 91 million vehicles, driven by increased semiconductor content per vehicle [5] - China's automotive market continues to dominate global production, representing over one-third of worldwide vehicle production, where the company's ADAS solutions are gaining traction [10] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is expanding into adjacent markets such as quantum computing and humanoid robotics, indicating a diversification strategy [6][8] - The acquisition of Emotion3D aims to enhance the company's capabilities in AI perception software for automotive applications, expected to contribute positively to revenue in the future [16][19] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged short-term supply chain disruptions due to substrate shortages but expects resolution by Q1 2026, with revenue recovery anticipated [18][24] - The company remains optimistic about growth in 2026, driven by radar and vision programs, despite current operational challenges [27][39] Other Important Information - The company is actively working on second sourcing strategies to mitigate supply chain risks and enhance production capabilities [20][46] - The divestment of Wuxi is expected to improve the company's margin profile and lower the break-even revenue threshold [17][19] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you explain the supply shortages and their resolution timeline? - Management indicated that the supply shortage was unexpected and is anticipated to resolve by Q1 2026, with revenue recovery expected [24] Question: What is causing the gross margin declines into Q4? - The decline is attributed to a mix of products, with higher-margin products being affected by the inability to meet market demand [25] Question: What is the visibility on radar ramp and customer engagement? - The company is preparing for a significant ramp in radar production, with strong customer engagement and expectations for high-volume market share [38] Question: Can you provide insights on the quantum laser market and design wins? - The company has begun shipping production in the quantum laser market, with rapid acceleration expected [31] Question: What are the primary contributors to backlog growth? - The backlog growth is primarily driven by expansions in radar and vision programs, along with some contributions from quantum-related optics products [32][36] Question: How will the acquisition of Emotion3D impact revenue and gross margin? - While immediate revenue synergies are not expected in Q4, contributions are anticipated to increase in 2026 [39]