IXICO plc (LSE:IXI), a leading medical imaging and advanced analytics company focused on neuroscience, has issued a promising trading update for the fiscal year ending 30 September 2024 (FY24). The company, renowned for delivering cutting-edge insights into neurological conditions through advanced imaging and data analytics, now expects its financial performance for FY24 to surpass previous market expectations.
New Contract Wins Propel Revenue Growth
A key factor contributing to IXICO’s improved outlook is the successful acquisition of new contracts worth £5.8 million since the end of March 2024, when the company reported its half-year results. These contracts, which reflect the growing demand for IXICO's expertise in neuroscience, have significantly bolstered the company's revenue prospects for the second half of FY24.
As a result, IXICO now anticipates full-year revenue for FY24 to fall between £5.5 million and £5.9 million. While this figure is lower than the £6.7 million reported in FY23, it represents a marked improvement from the first half of FY24, during which the company recorded revenues of £2.5 million. The expected second-half growth in revenues, projected to be at least 20% higher than the first half, underscores IXICO's strong commercial momentum.
Rebounding Order Book
Another positive development highlighted in the trading update is the expected recovery of IXICO's order book. The company predicts that its year-end order book will return to the prior year's levels, estimated at approximately £14.8 million. This anticipated rebound follows the successful signing of new contracts and contract extensions, which have replenished the order book after it had dipped to £12.7 million in the first half of FY24.
The revival of the order book is a crucial indicator of IXICO’s long-term growth potential, as it not only secures future revenues but also reflects the continued confidence of clients in IXICO's capabilities. The company's advanced imaging analytics, which support clinical trials and research in neurological conditions such as Alzheimer's, Huntington's disease, and multiple sclerosis, are increasingly seen as vital tools in the development of new therapies.
Improved Financial Outlook
The combination of higher-than-expected revenues and a stronger order book is also set to positively impact IXICO's cash flow and EBITDA performance. The company now expects its cash position and EBITDA loss for FY24 to be better than current market forecasts of £1.4 million in cash and a £2.1 million EBITDA loss. This improvement is a testament to IXICO’s disciplined financial management and its ability to leverage new business opportunities effectively.
Strategic Positioning in Neuroscience
IXICO’s advanced analytics and medical imaging services have positioned the company as a leader in the neuroscience sector, where the demand for accurate and reliable data continues to grow. The company's technology enables pharmaceutical and biotech companies to enhance the efficacy of clinical trials, reduce time-to-market for new therapies, and ultimately improve patient outcomes.