Connect with us

Technology

Valens Semiconductor Reports Second Quarter 2024 Results

Published

on

Exceeds second quarter revenue guidance due to improved customer demand for high-performance connectivity solutions

Acquires Acroname, bolstering innovative USB offering for the industrial market

Strong balance sheet supports highly selective acquisition strategy to complement organic growth

HOD HASHARON, Israel, Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Valens Semiconductor Ltd. (NYSE: VLN), a leader in high-performance connectivity, today reported financial results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2024.

 

“Our team made solid progress executing against our long-term strategy and capitalizing on growing market demand for our chipsets,” said Gideon Ben-Zvi, CEO of Valens Semiconductor. “As a result, our second quarter revenue exceeded our guidance, increasing our confidence in the positive trends we are seeing across the diverse verticals we serve. Our mid- and long-term opportunities remain promising despite short-term industry challenges, including slow inventory digestion in the Audio-Video sector.”

“On May 31, 2024, we completed the acquisition of Acroname, our first M&A transaction, expanding our position in the industrial and Audio-Video markets. Importantly, our strong balance sheet provides us with the flexibility to move quickly when opportunities arise. Going forward, we expect this highly selective acquisition strategy to complement our organic growth initiatives.

“We continued to see growing interest in the adoption of our latest USB3 extension technology, the VS6320 chipset. Since its introduction late last year, we have engaged with over 50 customers, that are integrating the chipset into a wide variety of products, as announced at InfoComm International in June. This momentum validates the VS6320’s groundbreaking technology and high demand for reliable, streamlined, and affordable connectivity. We expect to start generating revenue from this chipset in the second half of 2024, before ramping up further in 2025.

“The Pro AV market presents a significant growth opportunity for Valens Semiconductor, driven by the latest additions to the portfolio, as well as our legacy products. Our chipset family offers industry-leading and standard-setting solutions to customers in the professional Audio-Video market, as well as in the industrial, machine vision and medical end markets. We believe these combined verticals represent a total addressable market of approximately $1 billion per annum.

“Additionally, we are confident that our innovative technology will position us to take advantage of the large opportunity within the automotive segment, which we estimate will have a total addressable market of $4.5 billion per annum by 2029.

“As we look to the second half of 2024 and beyond, Valens Semiconductor remains committed to capitalizing on the promising opportunities within our target markets. Our innovative, standard-setting, and high-speed connectivity solutions and highly sophisticated chipsets position us to achieve our goals and deliver value for our stakeholders,” concluded Ben-Zvi.

Key Business Highlights

Acquired Acroname Inc., a pioneer in advanced automation and control technologies for applications in industrial, Audio-Video, video conferencing rooms, and embedded robotic control systems, for $7.8 million in cash. An additional $1.3 million was transferred to Acroname in consideration for the amount Acroname held in cash at closing. Further, Valens will be obligated to pay the sellers earn out payments of up to $7.2 million, depending on the achievement of certain revenue, EBITDA and cashflow targets in 2024 and 2025, and development of a certain product by June 2026. The acquisition enables Valens to expand its position in the industrial market with a holistic USB-focused offering.Engaged with over 50 customers for the VS6320, with a wide variety of product launches announced at InfoComm International – the largest professional Audio-Video trade show in North America, including USB extenders, PTZ cameras, video bars, wall plates, docking stations, room appliance controllers, and USB hub switches.Announced a new suite of products by Good Way Technology, one of the world’s leading PC peripheral design and manufacturing companies, based on Valens Semiconductor’s VS6320 chipset, compliant with the HDBaseT-USB3 standard.Progressed on several evaluation processes with global automotive OEMs for the VA7000 MIPI A-PHY compliant chipset and are continuing to work with the long list of companies joining the A-PHY ecosystem by designing and developing products based around this technology.

Key Financial Highlights

Second quarter 2024 revenues reached $13.6 million, of which Acroname contributed $0.4 million, compared to $24.2 million in the second quarter of 2023.
–  Audio-video revenues accounted for approximately 60% of total revenues at $8.1 million, of which Acroname contributed $0.4 million, compared to $15.5 million in the second quarter of 2023, due to ongoing inventory digestion.
–  Automotive revenues accounted for approximately 40% of total revenues at $5.5 million, compared to $8.7 million in the second quarter of 2023, due to lower demand from Mercedes-Benz.GAAP gross margin was 61.4% for the second quarter of 2024 (non-GAAP gross margin was 64.5%). This compared to GAAP gross margin of 61.8% for the second quarter of 2023 (non-GAAP gross margin of 63.1%). GAAP Net Loss was $(8.9) million in the second quarter of 2024, compared to a GAAP Net Loss of $(4.6) million in the second quarter of 2023. On a segment basis, Audio-Video gross margin was 75.4% and automotive gross margin was 40.9% compared to 75.3% and 37.8%, respectively in the second quarter of 2023.Adjusted EBITDA Loss in the second quarter of 2024 was $(5.2) million, compared to Adjusted EBITDA loss of $(0.8) million in the second quarter of 2023.Strong balance sheet of $130.6 million in cash, cash equivalents and short-term deposits, and no debt, as of June 30, 2024, compared to $139.8 million on March 31, 2024, with the reduction in cash due to ongoing operational expenses and $7.8 million associated with the acquisition.Inventory balance of $14.1 million on June 30, 2024, of which $2.5 million was from Acroname. Excluding this amount, inventories were $11.6 million, down compared to $12.5 million on March 31, 2024.

Financial Outlook

Disclaimer: Valens Semiconductor does not provide GAAP net profit (loss) guidance as certain elements of net profit (loss), including share-based compensation expenses and warrant valuations, are not predictable due to the high variability and difficulty of making accurate forecasts. Adjusted EBITDA is a non-GAAP measure. See the tables below for additional information regarding this and other non-GAAP metrics used in this release.

“Looking ahead, we are confident in our growth potential for the medium and long term. As the industry recovers, we are prepared to implement our growth strategy with an even more comprehensive portfolio of solutions, designed to penetrate new markets and sectors,” said Guy Nathanzon, CFO of Valens Semiconductor.

“Our third quarter revenues are expected to range between $14.7 million to $15.4 million, of which $1.2 million to $1.4 million is expected to be attributed to Acroname. Gross margin is expected to range between 52.0% and 53.0%, and adjusted EBITDA loss is expected to range between $(6.8) million and $(6.3) million. We have a strong cash position, and in the future, we expect additional, highly selective synergistic M&A deals that align with our long-term growth strategy,” concluded Nathanzon.

Conference Call Information

Valens Semiconductor will host a conference call today, Wednesday, August 7, 2024, at 8:30 a.m. Eastern Time (ET) to discuss its second quarter 2024 financial results and business outlook. To access this call, dial (at least 10 minutes before the scheduled time) +1 (888) 281-1167 (U.S.), 0 (808) 101-2717 (UK), 03 918 0610 (Israel) or +972 3 918 0610 (all other locations). A live webcast of the conference call will be available via the investor relations section of Valens Semiconductor’s website at Valens – Financials – Quarterly Results. The live webcast can also be accessed by clicking here. A replay of the conference call will be available on Valens Semiconductor’s website shortly after the call concludes.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release includes “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements may be identified by the use of words such as “estimate,” “plan,” “project,” “forecast,” “intend,” “will,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “seek,” “target” or other similar expressions that predict or indicate future events or trends or that are not statements of historical matters. These forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding our anticipated future results, including financial results, currency exchange rates, and contract wins, and future economic and market conditions. These statements are based on various assumptions, whether or not identified in this press release, and on the current expectations of Valens Semiconductor’s (“Valens”) management and are not predictions of actual performance. These forward-looking statements are provided for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to serve as and must not be relied on by any investor as a guarantee, an assurance, a prediction or a definitive statement of fact or probability. Actual events and circumstances are difficult or impossible to predict and will differ from assumptions. Many actual events and circumstances are beyond the control of Valens Semiconductor. These forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, including the cyclicality of the semiconductor industry; the effect of inflation and a rising interest rate environment on our customers and industry; the ability of our customers to absorb inventory; the impact of the global pandemic caused by COVID-19 on our customers’ budgets and on economic conditions generally, as well as the length, severity of and pace of recovery following the pandemic; competition in the semiconductor industry, and the failure to introduce new technologies and products in a timely manner to compete successfully against competitors; if Valens fails to adjust its supply chain volume due to changing market conditions or fails to estimate its customers’ demand; disruptions in relationships with any one of Valens’ key customers; any difficulty selling Valens’ products if customers do not design its products into their product offerings; Valens’ dependence on winning selection processes; even if Valens succeeds in winning selection processes for its products, Valens may not generate timely or sufficient net sales or margins from those wins; sustained yield problems or other delays or quality events in the manufacturing process of products; our ability to effectively manage, invest in, grow, and retain our sales force, research and development capabilities, marketing team and other key personnel; our ability to timely adjust product prices to customers following price increase by the supply chain; our ability to adjust our inventory level due to reduction in demand due to inventory buffers accrued by customers; our expectations regarding the outcome of any future litigation in which we are named as a party; our ability to adequately protect and defend our intellectual property and other proprietary rights; our ability to successfully integrate or otherwise achieve anticipated benefits from acquired businesses; the market price and trading volume of the Valens ordinary shares may be volatile and could decline significantly; political, economic, governmental and tax consequences associated with our incorporation and location in Israel; and those factors discussed in Valens’ Form 20-F filed with the SEC on February 28, 2024 under the heading “Risk Factors,” and other documents of Valens filed, or to be filed, with the SEC. If any of these risks materialize or our assumptions prove incorrect, actual results could differ materially from the results implied by these forward-looking statements. There may be additional risks that Valens does not presently know or that Valens currently believes are immaterial that could also cause actual results to differ from those contained in the forward-looking statements. In addition, forward-looking statements reflect Valens’ expectations, plans or forecasts of future events and views as of the date of this press release. Valens anticipates that subsequent events and developments may cause Valens’ assessments to change. However, while Valens may elect to update these forward-looking statements at some point in the future, Valens specifically disclaims any obligation to do so. These forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as representing Valens’ assessment as of any date subsequent to the date of this press release. Accordingly, undue reliance should not be placed upon the forward-looking statements.

About Valens Semiconductor

Valens Semiconductor is a leader in high-performance connectivity, enabling customers to transform the digital experiences of people worldwide. Valens’ chipsets are integrated into countless devices from leading customers, powering state-of-the-art audio-video installations, next-generation videoconferencing, and enabling the evolution of ADAS and autonomous driving. Pushing the boundaries of connectivity, Valens sets the standard everywhere it operates, and its technology forms the basis for the leading industry standards such as HDBaseT® and MIPI A-PHY. For more information, visit https://www.valens.com/.

 

VALENS SEMICONDUCTOR LTD.

SUMMARY OF FINANCIAL RESULTS

(U.S. Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)

 

Three Months Ended

June 30,

 

Six Months Ended

June 30,

2024

2023

2024

2023

Revenues

13,597

24,175

25,156

48,055

Gross Profit

8,344

14,934

15,159

30,727

Gross Margin

61.4 %

61.8 %

60.3 %

63.9 %

Net loss

(8,869)

(4,582)

(18,911)

(9,959)

Working Capital[1]

142,349

160,766

142,349

160,766

Cash, cash equivalents and short-term deposits[2]

130,630

138,042

130,630

138,042

Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities

(225)

358

(1,615)

(8,311)

Non-GAAP Financial Data

Non-GAAP Gross Margin[3]

64.5 %

63.1 %

63.3 %

65.1 %

Adjusted EBITDA Loss[4]

(5,168)

(782)

(12,237)

(3,640)

 

Non-GAAP Earnings Loss per share

(in U.S. Dollars)[5] 

$(0.04)

$(0.00)

$(0.10)

$(0.03)

1. Working Capital is calculated as Total Current Assets, less Total Current Liabilities, as of the last day of the period.

2. As of the last day of the period.

3. GAAP Gross Profit excluding share-based compensation and depreciation expenses, divided by revenue. For the three months ended June 30, 2024, and 2023,
share-based compensation and depreciation & amortization expenses were $423 thousand and $315 thousand, respectively. For the six months ended June 30, 2024,
and 2023, share-based compensation and depreciation expenses were $770 thousand and $560 thousand, respectively.

4. Adjusted EBITDA is defined as Net profit (loss) before financial income (expense), net, income taxes, equity in earnings of investee and depreciation and amortization,
further adjusted to exclude share-based compensation and change in fair value of Forfeiture Shares, which may vary from period-to-period. We caution investors that amounts
presented in accordance with our definition of Adjusted EBITDA may not be comparable to similar measures disclosed by other issuers, because not all issuers calculate
Adjusted EBITDA in the same manner. Adjusted EBITDA should not be considered as an alternative to Net loss or any other performance measures derived in accordance
with GAAP or as an alternative to cash flows from operating activities as a measure of our liquidity. Please refer to the appendix at the end of this press release for a reconciliation
to the most directly comparable measure in accordance with GAAP.

5. See reconciliation of GAAP to non-GAAP financial measures.

 

 

VALENS SEMICONDUCTOR LTD.

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

(U.S. Dollars in thousands, except share and per share amounts)

Three Months Ended
June 30,

Six Months Ended
June 30,

2024

2023

2024

2023

REVENUES

13,597

24,175

25,156

48,055

COST OF REVENUES

(5,253)

(9,241)

(9,997)

(17,328)

GROSS PROFIT

 

8,344

 

14,934

 

15,159

 

30,727

OPERATING EXPENSES:

Research and development expenses

(9,961)

(12,161)

(20,106)

(26,121)

 Sales and marketing expenses 

(4,368)

(4,255)

(8,756)

(9,315)

 

General and administrative expenses

 

(3,397)

 

(3,701)

 

(6,968)

 

(7,533)

 

Change in earnout liability

 

(28)

 

 

(28)

TOTAL OPERATING EXPENSES

 

(17,754)

 

(20,117)

 

(35,858)

 

(42,969)

OPERATING LOSS

(9,410)

(5,183)

(20,699)

(12,242)

Change in fair value of Forfeiture Shares

10

22

35

1,529

Financial income, net

540

601

1,774

792

LOSS BEFORE INCOME TAXES

(8,860)

(4,560)

(18,890)

(9,921)

INCOME TAXES

(21)

(26)

(38)

(45)

LOSS AFTER INCOME TAXES

(8,881)

(4,586)

(18,928)

(9,966)

Equity in earnings of investee

12

4

17

7

NET LOSS

(8,869)

(4,582)

(18,911)

(9,959)

 

EARNINGS PER SHARE DATA:

 

BASIC AND DILUTED NET LOSS PER ORDINARY SHARE[6] (in U.S. Dollars)

$(0.08)

$(0.05)

$(0.18)

$(0.10)

WEIGHTED AVERAGE NUMBER OF SHARES AND VESTED RSUS USED

IN COMPUTING NET LOSS PER ORDINARY SHARE

105,079,508

101,685,915

104,563,467

101,381,153

6. See note 5. 

 

 

VALENS SEMICONDUCTOR LTD.

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(U.S. Dollars in thousands)

 

ASSETS

June 30, 2024

December 31, 2023

 

CURRENT ASSETS

Cash and cash equivalents

24,706

17,261

    Short-term deposits

105,924

124,759

    Trade accounts receivable

10,021

14,642

    Inventories

14,070

13,836

    Prepaid expenses and other current assets

3,972

4,196

TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS

158,693

174,694

 

LONG-TERM ASSETS

    Property and equipment, net

2,666

2,954

    Operating lease right-of-use assets

6,777

2,202

    Intangible assets

5,172

    Goodwill

1,847

    Other assets

633

708

TOTAL LONG-TERM ASSETS

17,095

5,864

 

TOTAL ASSETS

175,788

180,558

 

LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY

 

CURRENT LIABILITIES[7]

16,344

15,931

 

LONG-TERM LIABILITIES

     Forfeiture Shares

3

38

     Non-current operating leases liabilities

3,774

190

     Earnout liability

2,064

    Other long-term liabilities

75

95

TOTAL LONG-TERM LIABILITIES

5,916

323

 

TOTAL LIABILITIES

22,260

16,254

TOTAL SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY

153,528

164,304

TOTAL LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY

175,788

180,558

7. As of June 30, 2024, and December 31, 2023, include $2,852 thousand and $1,766 thousand, respectively, of current maturities of operating leases liabilities

 

 

VALENS SEMICONDUCTOR LTD.

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(U.S. Dollars in thousands)

Three Months Ended

June 30,

Six Months Ended

June 30,

2024

2023

2024

2023

CASH FLOW FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:

    Net loss for the period

(8,869)

(4,582)

(18,911)

(9,959)

    Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash used in operating activities:

    Income and expense items not involving cash flows:

Depreciation and amortization

479

414

935

793

Stock-based compensation 

3,735

3,987

7,499

7,809

Exchange rate differences

741

1,021

1,266

2,273

Interest on short-term deposits

642

177

917

(389)

Change in fair value of forfeiture shares

(10)

(22)

(35)

(1,529)

Change in earnout liability

28

28

Reduction in the carrying amount of ROU assets

239

522

723

986

Equity in earnings of investee, net of dividend received

12

4

17

7

    Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of effects of businesses acquired: 

Trade accounts receivable 

180

(3,176)

4,915

(4,575)

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

101

1,042

308

403

Inventories

1,054

4,549

2,401

4,799

Other assets 

(8)

(8)

66

34

Current Liabilities

1,659

(3,114)

(1,102)

(8,172)

Change in operating lease liabilities

(204)

(457)

(622)

(859)

Other long-term liabilities

(4)

1

(20)

68

    Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities 

(225)

358

(1,615)

(8,311)

 

CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:

    Investment in short-term deposits

(49,379)

(68,428)

(87,219)

(109,153)

    Maturities of short-term deposits 

47,059

74,810

104,038

118,954

    Purchase of property and equipment

(235)

(777)

(265)

(919)

    Cash paid for business combination, net of cash acquired

(7,800)

(7,800)

    Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities

(10,355)

5,605

8,754

8,882

 

CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:

    Exercise of stock options

510

58

636

986

    Net cash provided by financing activities

510

58

636

986

    Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents

(324)

(100)

(330)

(171)

INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS

(10,394)

5,921

7,445

1,386

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT THE BEGINNING OF THE PERIOD

35,100

15,489

17,261

20,024

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT THE END OF THE PERIOD

24,706

21,410

24,706

21,410

SUPPLEMENT DISCLOSURE OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION

    Cash paid for taxes

28

213

63

252

SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF NON-CASH INVESTING AND FINANCING ACTIVITIES:

Trade accounts payable on account of property and equipment

279

35

279

160

Fair value of earnout liability assumed in business combination

2,036

2,036

Operating lease liabilities arising from obtaining operating right-of-use assets

4,802

152

4,833

436

 

 

VALENS SEMICONDUCTOR LTD.

RECONCILIATION OF GAAP TO NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES

(U.S. Dollars in thousands)

The following table provides a reconciliation of Net loss to Adjusted EBITDA, a non-GAAP measure. Adjusted EBITDA is defined
as Net profit (loss) before financial income (expense), net, income taxes, equity in earnings of investee and depreciation and amortization,
further adjusted to exclude share-based compensation and change in fair value of Forfeiture Shares, which may vary from period-to-period. 
We caution investors that amounts presented in accordance with our definition of Adjusted EBITDA may not be comparable to similar
measures disclosed by other issuers, because not all issuers calculate Adjusted EBITDA in the same manner. Adjusted EBITDA should
not be considered as an alternative to Net loss or any other performance measures derived in accordance with GAAP or as an alternative
to cash flows from operating activities as a measure of our liquidity.

Although we provide guidance for Adjusted EBITDA, we are not able to provide guidance for projected Net profit (loss), the most directly
comparable GAAP measures. Certain elements of Net profit (loss), including share-based compensation expenses and warrant valuations,
are not predictable due to the high variability and difficulty of making accurate forecasts. As a result, it is impractical for us to provide
guidance on Net profit (loss) or to reconcile our Adjusted EBITDA guidance without unreasonable efforts. Consequently, no disclosure
of projected Net profit (loss) is included. For the same reasons, we are unable to address the probable significance of the unavailable information.

Three Months Ended

June 30,

Six Months Ended

June 30,

2024

2023

2024

2023

Net Loss

(8,869)

(4,582)

 

(18,911)

 

(9,959)

Adjusted to exclude the following:

Change in fair value of Forfeiture Shares

(10)

(22)

 

(35)

 

(1,529)

Change in earnout liability

28

 

28

 

Financial income, net

(540)

(601)

 

(1,774)

 

(792)

Income taxes

21

26

 

38

 

45

Equity in earnings of investee

(12)

(4)

 

(17)

 

(7)

Depreciation and amortization

479

414

 

935

 

793

Stock-based compensation expenses

3,735

3,987

 

7,499

 

7,809

Adjusted EBITDA Loss

(5,168)

(782)

 

(12,237)

 

(3,640)

 

 

VALENS SEMICONDUCTOR LTD.

RECONCILIATION OF GAAP TO NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES

(U.S. Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)

The following tables provide a calculation of the GAAP Loss per share and reconciliation to Non-GAAP Loss per share.

Three Months Ended

June 30,

Six Months Ended

June 30,

 GAAP Loss per Share

2024

2023

2024

2023

GAAP Net Loss used for computing Loss per Share

(8,869)

(4,582)

 

(18,911)

 

(9,959)

 

Earnings Per Share Data:

GAAP Loss per Share (in U.S. Dollars)

$(0.08)

$(0.05)

 

$(0.18)

 

$(0.10)

 

Weighted average number of shares used in calculation of

net loss per share

105,079,508

101,685,915

 

 

 

104,563,467

 

 

 

101,381,153

 

 

Three Months Ended

June 30,

 

Six Months Ended

 June 30,

Non-GAAP Loss per Share[8]

2024

2023

2024

2023

GAAP Net Loss

(8,869)

(4,582)

 

(18,911)

 

(9,959)

Adjusted to exclude the following:

 

Stock based compensation

3,735

3,987

 

7,499

 

7,809

Depreciation and amortization

479

414

 

935

 

793

Change in earnout liability

28

 

28

 

Change in fair value of Forfeiture Shares

(10)

(22)

 

(35)

 

(1,529)

Total Non-GAAP Loss used for computing Loss per Share

(4,637)

(203)

 

(10,484)

 

(2,886)

 

Earnings Per Share Data:

Non-GAAP Earnings (Loss) per Share (in U.S. Dollars)

$(0.04)

$(0.00)

 

$(0.10)

 

$(0.03)

Weighted average number of shares used in calculation of 
net loss per share

105,079,508

101,685,915

104,563,467

101,381,153

8.The company calculates its non-GAAP Loss per Share as GAAP Net Loss adjusted to exclude the following: Stock based compensation, depreciation, 
and the change in fair value of Forfeiture Share divided by the weighted average number of shares used in calculation of net loss per share.

 

 

For more information, please contact:

Investor Contacts:

Michal Ben Ari
Investor Relations Manager
Valens Semiconductor
michal.benari@valens.com

Lisa Fortuna
Financial Profiles, Inc.
Valens@finprofiles.com

Media Contact:

Yoni Dayan
Head of Communications
Valens Semiconductor Ltd.
yoni.dayan@valens.com

Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2309625/Valens_Semiconductor_Logo.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/valens-semiconductor-reports-second-quarter-2024-results-302216474.html

SOURCE Valens Semiconductor

Continue Reading
Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Technology

ADX welcomes Morgan Stanley as the first international investment bank Remote Trading Member, expanding global access to Abu Dhabi’s capital markets

Published

on

By

ABU DHABI, UAE, May 5, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX) Group today announced that Morgan Stanley, a leading investment bank and financial services company, has joined the ADX as its first international investment bank Remote Trading Member — enabling Morgan Stanley’s clients to access the ADX directly.

This milestone strengthens ADX’s global connectivity and supports growing international institutional demand for exposure to UAE markets. It also reinforces its position as one of the world’s fastest-growing exchanges by market capitalization, while highlighting the market’s continued progress in depth, liquidity, and inclusion in major global indices.

Remote membership enables Morgan Stanley to provide its clients with direct market access to the ADX, with trading conducted via the firm’s global trading platform. The ADX continues to play a pivotal role in advancing Abu Dhabi’s long-term economic ambitions, as a mechanism for a diversified, innovation-led, knowledge-based economy.

Morgan Stanley’s direct trading access to ADX reflects the strength of Abu Dhabi’s investment proposition and the continued institutionalization of UAE capital markets. Morgan Stanley’s membership will enhance execution quality, optimize order routing, and provide greater control across the end-to-end trade lifecycle, delivering an advanced trading experience for global investors.

The structure follows a proven international access model used by Morgan Stanley and is designed to meet growing client demand for efficient, transparent, and seamless access to ADX-listed opportunities.

Abdulla Salem Alnuaimi, Group Chief Executive Officer of Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX) Group, said: “This marks a significant step in advancing our ambition to be a leading financial marketplace that drives opportunity and sustainable economic growth. This momentum is reflected in the strong foreign investor participation, with trading value exceeding 85 billion dirhams in the first quarter of 2026 up by 22% year on year. This performance underscores the growing depth and global relevance of our market, while reinforcing our commitment to expanding international access, strengthening cross-border connectivity, and building a world-class market infrastructure that attracts global capital, supports a diverse range of issuers and contributes to Abu Dhabi’s long-term economic prosperity.”

Patrick Delivanis, Regional Co-Head of MENA at Morgan Stanley, said: “Becoming a Remote Trading Member of ADX reflects our focus on providing clients with efficient, seamless access to Abu Dhabi’s capital markets through our market–leading trading platform. We see continued momentum in the institutionalization and international participation of UAE markets, and we’re pleased to support that evolution by enabling international investors to access opportunities in MENA with direct connectivity to local markets, alongside greater transparency and control across the trading lifecycle.”

Morgan Stanley’s participation aligns with ADX’s strategy to strengthen international connectivity, with remote memberships selectively offered to global firms to attract high-quality cross-border liquidity. The announcement builds on the ADX’s expansion momentum: in 2025, foreign investment rose by nearly 14% and institutional trading increased by 10% year on year. Subject to final operational readiness, Morgan Stanley expects to begin trading as a remote member in the coming weeks.

About Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX)

The Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX) was established on 15 November 2000 pursuant to Local Law No. (3) of 2000, which granted the exchange legal rights with independent financial and administrative status, as well as the necessary supervisory and executive powers necessary to carry out its functions. On 17 March 2020, the ADX was converted from a public entity into a Public Joint Stock Company (PJSC) in accordance with Law No. (8) of 2020.

The ADX Group, a market infrastructure group comprising the exchange (ADX) and its post-trade ecosystem, including its wholly owned subsidiaries AD Depository and AD Clear, was established. Through its integrated and globally aligned business structure, the ADX Group supports efficient, transparent, and resilient capital markets across trading, clearing, settlement, and custody.

The Group provides an efficient and regulated marketplace for the trading of securities, including equities issued by public joint-stock companies, bonds issued by governments and corporations, exchange-traded funds (ETFs), and other financial instruments approved by the UAE Capital Market Authority.

The ADX is the second-largest exchange in the Arab region by market capitalization. Its strategy of delivering stable financial performance through diversified revenue streams is aligned with the UAE’s national development agenda, “Towards the Next 50”, which aims to build a sustainable, diversified, and high-value-added economy.

For more information, please contact:
Abdulrahman Saleh ALKhateeb
Manager of Corporate Communication
Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX)
Mobile: +971 (50) 668 9733
Email: ALKhateebA@adx.ae

 

 

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/adx-welcomes-morgan-stanley-as-the-first-international-investment-bank-remote-trading-member-expanding-global-access-to-abu-dhabis-capital-markets-302762404.html

SOURCE Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX)

Continue Reading

Technology

Geotab integrates Polestar vehicles into its OEM telematics network

Published

on

By

Fleet operators across North America, Europe, and APAC can now access Polestar vehicle data directly in MyGeotab — no aftermarket hardware required.

LONDON, UK, May 5, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Geotab, a global leader in connected vehicle and asset management solutions, today announced the integration of Polestar vehicles into its OEM telematics network, giving commercial fleet operators seamless access to Polestar data within MyGeotab from day one — with no aftermarket hardware installation required. The integration is available globally across North America, Europe, and Asia Pacific, supporting all Polestar models.

Developed in collaboration with Geotab, among other telematics service providers, Polestar Fleet Telematics integrates directly into MyGeotab. The Geotab integration enables fleet managers to manage Polestar vehicles alongside all other makes and models on a single unified platform — without fitting additional devices.

Connected vehicle data where it matters most

Through Polestar Fleet Telematics, fleet operators gain near-real-time access to a comprehensive dataset — covering EV battery and charging status, location, tyre information, vehicle security, maintenance alerts, and climate data — flowing directly from Polestar’s connected vehicle architecture into MyGeotab, with no physical installation required.

This breadth of data enables fleet managers to move from reactive to proactive operations — scheduling maintenance before failures occur, optimising charge planning across depots, and maintaining duty-of-care oversight across the entire fleet.

Supporting Europe’s Mixed-Fleet Reality

OEM-embedded telematics removes the need for aftermarket device installation across mixed-manufacturer fleets, reducing logistical overhead and supporting compliance with works council and GDPR requirements — a critical consideration for European fleet operators.

“Polestar Fleet Telematics combines sustainability with intelligence, integrating seamlessly with Geotab to deliver these capabilities directly into the platforms fleet operators trust. Continuous data visibility enables more efficient and informed fleet operations, from day-to-day management to long-term planning. By leveraging Polestar vehicles’ embedded connectivity, fleet managers can make smarter, data-driven decisions — without adding hardware or complexity to their operations.” said Emma Knapp, Manager of Global Key Accounts at Polestar.

Polestar joins an OEM telematics network that already spans over 80% of leading global vehicle manufacturers by fleet market share, including BMW Group, Ford, Stellantis, Volkswagen Group, and Volvo Cars. For fleet operators already using MyGeotab, Polestar vehicles can be connected and deliver data without any additional hardware or installation.

“OEM-embedded telematics represents a change in how fleet data reaches the platform — and Polestar’s connected vehicle architecture makes this integration particularly well-suited for markets that are seriously considering transitioning to electric vehicles.” said Christoph Ludewig, Vice President OEM Global at Geotab. “Fleet operators managing mixed EV and internal combustion engine fleets no longer need separate tools or hardware for each vehicle type. Polestar data flows directly into MyGeotab alongside every other vehicle in the fleet — giving operators the consolidated visibility they need to drive efficiency, support duty of care, and manage their EV transition with confidence.”

Global Availability

The integration is available now across North America, Europe, and Asia Pacific, supporting all Polestar models. Fleet managers can activate the service via the Geotab Marketplace or by contacting their Geotab representative.

About Polestar

Polestar (Nasdaq: PSNY) is the Swedish electric performance car brand with a focus on uncompromised design and innovation, and the ambition to accelerate the change towards a sustainable future. Headquartered in Gothenburg, Sweden, its cars are available in 28 markets globally across North America, Europe and Asia Pacific.

Polestar has four models in its line-up: Polestar 2, Polestar 3, Polestar 4, and Polestar 5. Planned models include the Polestar 7 compact SUV (to be introduced in 2028) and the Polestar 6 roadster. With its vehicles currently manufactured on two continents, North America and Asia, Polestar plans to diversify its manufacturing footprint further, with production of Polestar 7 planned in Europe.

Polestar has an unwavering commitment to sustainability and has set an ambitious roadmap to reach its climate targets: halve greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 per-vehicle-sold and become climate-neutral across its value chain by 2040. Polestar’s comprehensive sustainability strategy covers the four areas of Climate, Transparency, Circularity, and Inclusion.

About Geotab

Geotab is a global leader in connected vehicle and asset management solutions, with headquarters in Oakville, Ontario and Atlanta, Georgia. Our mission is to make the world safer, more efficient, and sustainable. We leverage advanced data analytics and AI to transform fleet performance and operations, reducing cost and driving efficiency. Backed by top data scientists and engineers, we serve approximately 100,000 global customers, processing 100 billion data points daily from more than 5 million vehicle subscriptions. Geotab is trusted by Fortune 500 organisations, mid-sized fleets, and the largest public sector fleets in the world, including the US Federal government. Committed to data security and privacy, we hold FIPS 140-3 and FedRAMP authorisations. Our open platform, ecosystem of outstanding partners, and Geotab Marketplace deliver hundreds of fleet-ready third-party solutions. This year, we’re celebrating 25 years of innovation. Learn more at www.geotab.com/uk and follow us on LinkedIn or visit our blog.

GEOTAB and GEOTAB MARKETPLACE are registered trademarks of Geotab Inc. in Canada, the United States and/or other countries.

Media Contact: Geotab Contact, Romina Dashghachian, Strategic Communications Lead, EMEA, pr@geotab.com

Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2972188/Geotab_Inc__Geotab_integrates_Polestar_vehicles_into_its_OEM_tel.jpg 
Logo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2972187/Geotab_Inc__Geotab_integrates_Polestar_vehicles_into_its_OEM_tel.jpg 

 

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/geotab-integrates-polestar-vehicles-into-its-oem-telematics-network-302761910.html

Continue Reading

Technology

IDX Opens Geneva Office and Strengthens Global Data & Insights Capability

Published

on

By

New Swiss presence and specialist team integration support growing global demand for evidence-based, defensible communications strategies

LONDON, May 5, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — IDX today announced the opening of its new Geneva office and the integration of a specialist Data & Insights team, strengthening the company’s international footprint and expanding its ability to help clients worldwide build communications strategies grounded in evidence, market intelligence and audience insight.

The expansion gives IDX an on-the-ground presence in Switzerland while adding further depth to its Data & Insights capability. The Geneva-based team will work closely with IDX specialists across performance marketing and corporate communications, helping clients develop a clearer view of the markets they operate in and the forces shaping their growth.

The move aligns with Destination 250 – Customers First, IDX’s global strategy to grow its team by 250, focused on deepening client value, strengthening delivery and investing in the capabilities that matter most to clients.

The investment strengthens the Data pillar of IDX’s Connected Content™ model, which combines Creative, Data, Technology and Media to create what IDX calls The Multiplier Effect, helping clients multiply what matters through more connected, measurable and effective work.

“IDX is experiencing phenomenal growth, and our new Geneva office gives us boots on the ground to better serve clients across Europe and globally across performance marketing, investor relations and corporate communications,” said Crispin Beale, Worldwide CEO, IDX. “Data has been at the heart of this business for decades, and this centre of excellence reflects our continued investment in that capability. It’s an incredibly exciting time for IDX, and I look forward to the next phase of our growth as we continue to expand globally.”

“This is an exciting step in IDX’s growth story and a clear response to what clients are asking for: more evidence-based thinking, stronger market context and clearer rationale behind their communications strategies,” said Chris Corrigan, Chief Customer Growth Officer, IDX. “Our new presence in Geneva, combined with deeper Data & Insights expertise, strengthens the way we support clients globally, giving them earlier access to the insight and market context they need to make better-informed decisions and turn evidence into action.”

The Geneva office will strengthen relationships with existing clients in the region, support re-engagement with former partners and create new opportunities for IDX with organisations operating across European and global markets. It reflects IDX’s continued investment in the capabilities that matter most to clients as communications, marketing and corporate reputation work become increasingly data-led and commercially accountable.

“IDX’s integrated offer across insights, performance marketing and corporate communications, powered by the combination of human intelligence, advanced technology and AI, represents exactly where the industry is heading,” said Lonneke de Roo, Head of Data & Insights, IDX. “I am delighted to join the business and help clients navigate increasingly complex markets with clearer evidence, sharper insight and more connected strategies.”

ABOUT IDX  

IDX is a global strategic communications and marketing agency, headquartered in London with offices around the world, including New York, London, Phoenix, Helsinki, Gothenburg, Geneva, and Vadodara. Working with more than 1,600 clients across sectors, IDX combines deep industry knowledge with a data-first mindset to help ambitious brands thrive in complex, fast-moving markets. The firm specialises in performance marketing, investor relations, and stakeholder engagement, delivering integrated campaigns that drive meaningful business outcomes. Visit www.idx.inc to learn more.

Logo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2668561/IDX_black_Logo.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/idx-opens-geneva-office-and-strengthens-global-data–insights-capability-302762181.html

Continue Reading

Trending