Vericel reports Q2 earnings beat, raises outlook

Vericel Corporation (NASDAQ: VCEL) reported better-than-expected results in the second quarter aided by strong growth from both of its products. The company also raised its full-year revenue outlook. Despite the solid second quarter results, the stock was down about 5% during the pre-market trading hours.

Revenue rose 38% to $26.2 million surpassing estimates of $24.12 million. Adjusted loss per share contracted by 7 cents to $0.05 per share over last year. The street was anticipating loss of 46 cents per share. Adjusted EBITDA rose 29% to $1.8 million compared to the prior year period.

On the product sales front, MACI soared 48% to $20.8 million and Epicel surged 8% to $5.3 million. Vericel also has got the licensing rights for NexoBrid from MediWound, which is used in the treatment of severe thermal burns. The company plans to file a Biologics License Application (BLA) with the FDA by second quarter of 2020.

Commenting on the Q2 performance, CEO Nick Colangelo said, “Given the significant growth in new surgeons and biopsy volume, as well as the strength in Epicel demand, we have increased our revenue guidance for 2019.” 

Colangelo also added, “Looking forward, we anticipate submitting the NexoBrid BLA in the second quarter of 2020 which, upon FDA approval, would create a third growth driver for the company in 2021 and beyond.”

Operating expenses more than doubled to $37.3 million over last year due to $17.5 million license payment to MediWound. Cash and short-term investments contracted 20% to $66 million.

2019 Outlook

Vericel expects the demand for its products to increase in the latter half of the year. The company now expects sales to be in the range of $112-116 million, compared to the prior outlook of $110-114 million. The street is anticipating top line to come in at $113.2 million and adjusted loss of 33 cents per share.

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