0001768267false00017682672024-08-082024-08-08

 

 

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549

 

FORM 8-K

 

CURRENT REPORT

Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

Date of Report (Date of earliest event reported): August 8, 2024

 

CERENCE INC.

(Exact name of Registrant as Specified in Its Charter)

 

Delaware

 

001-39030

 

83-4177087

(State or Other Jurisdiction

of Incorporation)

 

(Commission File Number)

 

(IRS Employer

Identification No.)

 

 

 

 

 

25 Mall Road,

Suite 416

Burlington, Massachusetts

 

 

01803

(Address of Principal Executive Offices)

 

 

(Zip Code)

Registrant’s Telephone Number, Including Area Code: (857) 362-7300

Not Applicable

(Former Name or Former Address, if Changed Since Last Report)

 

Check the appropriate box below if the Form 8-K filing is intended to simultaneously satisfy the filing obligation of the registrant under any of the following provisions:

 

 

Written communications pursuant to Rule 425 under the Securities Act (17 CFR 230.425)

 

Soliciting material pursuant to Rule 14a-12 under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.14a-12)

 

Pre-commencement communications pursuant to Rule 14d-2(b) under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.14d-2(b))

 

Pre-commencement communications pursuant to Rule 13e-4(c) under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.13e-4(c))

 

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

 

Title of each class

 

Trading

Symbol(s)

 

Name of each exchange on which registered

Common stock, $0.01 par value

 

CRNC

 

The NASDAQ Stock Market LLC

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is an emerging growth company as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act of 1933 (§ 230.405 of this chapter) or Rule 12b-2 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (§ 240.12b-2 of this chapter).

Emerging growth company

If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act.

 

 


 

Item 2.02 Results of Operations and Financial Condition.

On August 8, 2024, Cerence Inc. (the "Company") announced its financial results for the quarter ended June 30, 2024. The press release, including the financial information contained therein, is attached hereto as Exhibit 99.1, and is incorporated herein by reference.

Also on August 8, 2024, the Company will use a presentation on its call with investors, discussing its financial results for the quarter ended June 30, 2024, and such earnings release presentation is furnished herewith as Exhibit 99.2. The press release and earnings release presentation include certain non-GAAP financial measures. A description of the non-GAAP measures, the reasons for their use, and GAAP to non-GAAP reconciliations are included in the press release and earnings release presentation.

The information in this Item 2.02 and the exhibits attached hereto are being furnished and shall not be deemed to be “filed” for the purposes of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), or otherwise subject to the liabilities of that section, nor shall they be deemed incorporated by reference into any filing under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or the Exchange Act, regardless of any general incorporation language in such filing.

Item 2.05 Costs Associated with Exit or Disposal Activities

On August 8, 2024, in response to evolving business needs, the Company announced a restructuring plan intended to reduce operating expenses and position the Company for profitable future growth (the “Plan”). The Plan is aimed at further driving operational efficiency and customer centricity. These changes reflect efforts to reshape the organization by streamlining the Company’s structure, better prioritizing its go-to-market investments, and focusing its research and development investments on its generative AI roadmap and innovation across its platform. The Company estimates that it will incur cash restructuring charges of approximately $18 to $22 million in connection with the Plan, primarily consisting of severance payments, payments in lieu of notice, employee benefits and related costs. The Company expects to incur the majority of these expenses in the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2024 and first quarter of fiscal year 2025 and the implementation of the Plan will be substantially complete by the end of the first quarter of fiscal year 2025. Potential position eliminations are subject to legal requirements that vary by jurisdiction, which may extend this process beyond the first quarter of fiscal year 2025 in certain cases. The charges that the Company expects to incur are subject to a number of assumptions, including legal requirements in various jurisdictions, and actual expenses and charges may differ materially from the estimates disclosed above.

Forward-Looking Statements

This Current Report on Form 8-K contains forward-looking statements including, but not limited to, statements related to the estimated restructuring charges associated with, the time frame for completion of and recognition of charges associated with, and the ability to reduce operating expenses and position the Company for profitable growth pursuant to, the Plan. The statements are based on management’s current expectations, estimates, and projections, are not guarantees of future performance, and are subject to certain risks, uncertainties, and other factors, some of which are beyond the Company’s control and are difficult to predict, including, but not limited to, changes in the Company’s operating results and financial condition. The forward-looking statements contained in this Current Report on Form 8-K are also subject to other risks and uncertainties, including those described in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the period ended September 30, 2023, the Company’s most recent Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, and from time to time other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), which are available on the SEC’s website (http://www.sec.gov). Stockholders of the Company are cautioned not to place undue reliance on the Company’s forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date such statements are made. The Company does not undertake any obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statements to reflect events, circumstances or new information after the date of this filing, or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.

Item 9.01 Financial Statements and Exhibits.

(d) Exhibits.

 

Exhibit

Number

Description

99.1

Press Release announcing financial results dated August 8, 2024.

99.2

 

Earnings Release Presentation dated August 8, 2024.

104

 

Cover Page Interactive Data File (embedded within the Inline XBRL document).

 


 

SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

Cerence Inc.

Date: August 8, 2024

By:

  /s/ Tony Rodriquez

  Name: Tony Rodriquez

  Title: Interim Chief Financial Officer

 

 


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Exhibit 99.1

Cerence Announces Third Quarter Fiscal Year 2024 Results

Headlines

Q3 revenue in-line with guidance; positive cash flow from operations of $12.9 million
Five generative AI customer programs released to production
Transformation plans estimated to deliver net annualized cost savings of $35-40 million, predominantly realized in FY25

BURLINGTON, Mass., August 8, 2024 Cerence Inc. (NASDAQ: CRNC), AI for a world in motion, today reported its third quarter fiscal year 2024 results for the quarter ended June 30, 2024.

 

Results Summary (1,2)

(in millions, except per share data)

 

 

Three Months Ended

 

 

Nine Months Ended

 

 

 

June 30,

 

 

June 30,

 

 

 

2024

 

 

2023

 

 

2024

 

 

2023

 

GAAP revenue

 

$

70.5

 

 

$

61.7

 

 

$

276.7

 

 

$

213.7

 

GAAP gross margin

 

 

71.5

%

 

 

66.0

%

 

 

75.7

%

 

 

66.2

%

Non-GAAP gross margin

 

 

72.4

%

 

 

66.5

%

 

 

76.4

%

 

 

67.7

%

GAAP operating margin (3)

 

 

-503.1

%

 

 

-13.8

%

 

 

-202.6

%

 

 

-14.6

%

Non-GAAP operating margin

 

 

14.7

%

 

 

0.5

%

 

 

27.6

%

 

 

8.1

%

GAAP net loss(3)

 

$

(313.5

)

 

$

(16.5

)

 

$

(567.7

)

 

$

(44.7

)

GAAP net loss margin(3)

 

 

-444.5

%

 

 

-26.7

%

 

 

-205.2

%

 

 

-20.9

%

Non-GAAP net income (loss)

 

$

8.4

 

 

$

(1.7

)

 

$

59.1

 

 

$

10.8

 

Adjusted EBITDA

 

$

12.5

 

 

$

2.8

 

 

$

82.6

 

 

$

24.9

 

Adjusted EBITDA margin

 

 

17.7

%

 

 

4.5

%

 

 

29.8

%

 

 

11.7

%

GAAP net loss per share - diluted(3)

 

$

(7.50

)

 

$

(0.41

)

 

$

(13.66

)

 

$

(1.11

)

Non-GAAP net income (loss) per share - diluted

 

$

0.19

 

 

$

(0.04

)

 

$

1.27

 

 

$

0.27

 

 

(1)
As previously disclosed, Q1FY24 revenue includes the non-cash revenue associated with the Toyota “Legacy” contract and related impacts totaling $86.6M.
(2)
Please refer to the “Discussion of Non-GAAP Financial Measures” and “Reconciliations of GAAP Financial Measures to Non-GAAP Financial Measures” included elsewhere in this release for more information regarding our use of non-GAAP financial measures.
(3)
Includes a Goodwill impairment charge of $252M in Q2FY24 and $357M in Q3FY24.

Stefan Ortmanns, Chief Executive Officer of Cerence, commented:

“Our Q3 results came in as expected, including strong cash flow from operations.

 


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We continue to make steady progress with our new generative AI products, as five customer projects with four global automakers are now in production. We have eight generative AI wins year-to-date and four additional customer launches expected by the end of the calendar year.

As we discussed last quarter, we are undertaking a significant transformation to bring our operating costs in line with our revenue run-rate profile, with the objective of generating consistent, positive adjusted EBITDA and cash flow from operations. Our plans, which will be implemented mainly in our fourth quarter, currently estimate net annualized cost savings of approximately $35 to $40 million, which are expected to benefit our business model beginning in our fiscal year 2025 and enable us to focus on the products and innovations that drive meaningful revenue and best support our automaker customers as they navigate changing conditions throughout the industry.

As we approach the end of the fiscal year, we are keenly focused on our goals of implementing our transformation plan, driving continued momentum for our new generative AI products and next-gen roadmap, and achieving our Q4 and full-year financial objectives.”

Cerence Key Performance Indicators

To help investors gain further insight into the Cerence business and its performance, management provides a set of key performance indicators that includes:

Key Performance Indicator1

 

Q3FY24

 

Percent of worldwide auto production with Cerence Technology (TTM)

 

 

53

%

Change in number of Cerence connected cars shipped2 (TTM over prior year TTM)

 

 

19

%

Change in Adjusted Total Billings (TTM over prior year TTM)3

 

 

3

%

 

(1)
Please refer to the “Key Performance Indicators” section included elsewhere in this release for more information regarding the definitions and our use of key performance indicators.
(2)
Based on IHS Markit data, global auto production increased 4% over the same time period ended on June 30, 2024.
(3)
Change in Adjusted total billings YoY (TTM): The year over year change in total billings adjusted to exclude Professional Services, prepay billings and prepay consumption.

Fourth Quarter and Full Year Fiscal 2024 Outlook

For the fiscal quarter ending September 30, 2024, revenue is expected to be in the range of $44 million to $50 million. GAAP net loss is expected to be in the range of ($32) million to ($28) million. Adjusted EBITDA is expected to be in the range of approximately ($19) million to ($13) million.

Accordingly, for the full fiscal year ending September 30, 2024, the company expects revenue to be in the range of $321 million to $327 million which includes an estimated $30 million of fixed contracts. GAAP net loss is expected to be in the range of ($600) million to ($596) million, which includes a goodwill impairment charge of $357.1 million for the three months ended June 30, 2024, in addition to the impairment charge for

 


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the three months ended March 31, 2024, of $252.1 million. Adjusted EBITDA is expected to be in the range of approximately $64 million to $70 million.

The adjusted EBITDA guidance excludes acquisition-related costs, amortization of acquired intangible assets, stock-based compensation, restructuring and other costs.

Additional details regarding guidance will be provided during the earnings call.

Cerence Conference Call and Webcast

The company will host a live conference call and webcast with slides to discuss the results today at 8:30 a.m. Eastern Time/5:30 a.m. Pacific Time. Interested investors and analysts are invited to dial into the conference call by registering here.

Webcast access will also be available on the Investor Information section of the company’s website at https://www.cerence.com/investors/events-and-resources.

A replay of the webcast can be accessed by visiting the company’s website 90 minutes following the conference call at https://www.cerence.com/investors/events-and-resources.

 

Forward Looking Statements

Statements in this press release regarding: Cerence’s future performance, results and financial condition; expected growth and profitability; outlook; transformation plans and cost efficiency initiatives, including the estimated net savings of operating costs; strategy; opportunities; business, industry and market trends; strategy regarding fixed contracts and its impact on financial results; backlog; revenue visibility; revenue timing and mix; demand for Cerence products; innovation and new product offerings, including AI technology; expected benefits of technology partnerships; and management’s future expectations, estimates, assumptions, beliefs, goals, objectives, targets, plans or prospects constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Any statements that are not statements of historical fact (including statements containing the words “believes,” “plans,” “anticipates,” “projects,” “forecasts,” “expects,” “intends,” “continues,” “will,” “may,” or “estimates” or similar expressions) should also be considered to be forward-looking statements. Although we believe forward-looking statements are based upon reasonable assumptions, such statements involve known and unknown risk, uncertainties and other factors, which may cause actual results or performance of the company to be materially different from any future results or performance expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements including but not limited to: the highly competitive and rapidly changing market in which we operate; adverse conditions in the automotive industry, the related supply chain and semiconductor shortage, or the global economy more generally; automotive production delays; changes in customer forecasts; the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on our and our customers’ businesses; the impact of the war in Ukraine, conflict between Israel and Hamas and attacks on commercial ships in the Red Sea by the Houthi groups on our and our customers’ businesses; our inability to control and successfully manage our expenses and cash position; our inability to deliver improved financial results from process optimization efforts and cost reduction actions; escalating pricing pressures from our customers; the impact on our business of the transition to a lower level of fixed contracts, including the failure to achieve such a transition;

 


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our failure to win, renew or implement service contracts; the cancellation or postponement of existing contracts; the loss of business from any of our largest customers; effects of customer defaults; our inability to successfully introduce new products, applications and services; our strategies to increase cloud offerings and deploy generative AI and large language models (LLMs); the inability to expand into adjacent markets; the inability to recruit and retain qualified personnel; disruptions arising from transitions in management personnel; cybersecurity and data privacy incidents; fluctuating currency rates and interest rates; inflation; and the other factors discussed in our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. We disclaim any obligation to update any forward-looking statements as a result of developments occurring after the date of this document.

Discussion of Non-GAAP Financial Measures

We believe that providing the non-GAAP information in addition to the GAAP presentation, allows investors to view the financial results in the way management views the operating results. We further believe that providing this information allows investors to not only better understand our financial performance, but more importantly, to evaluate the efficacy of the methodology and information used by management to evaluate and measure such performance. The non-GAAP information should not be considered superior to, or a substitute for, financial statements prepared in accordance with GAAP.

We utilize a number of different financial measures, both GAAP and non-GAAP, in analyzing and assessing the overall performance of the business, for making operating decisions and for forecasting and planning for future periods. While our management uses these non-GAAP financial measures as a tool to enhance their understanding of certain aspects of our financial performance, our management does not consider these measures to be a substitute for, or superior to, the information provided by GAAP financial statements.

Consistent with this approach, we believe that disclosing non-GAAP financial measures to the readers of our financial statements provides such readers with useful supplemental data that, while not a substitute for GAAP financial statements, allows for greater transparency in the review of our financial and operational performance. In assessing the overall health of the business during the three months ended June 30, 2024 and 2023, our management has either included or excluded the following items in general categories, each of which is described below.

Adjusted EBITDA.

Adjusted EBITDA is defined as net income attributable to Cerence Inc. before net income (loss) attributable to income tax (benefit) expense, other income (expense) items, net, depreciation and amortization expense, and excluding acquisition-related costs, amortization of acquired intangible assets, stock-based compensation, and restructuring and other costs, net or impairment charges related to fixed and intangible assets and gains or losses on the sale of long-lived assets, if any. From time to time we may exclude from Adjusted EBITDA the impact of events, gains, losses or other charges (such as significant legal settlements) that affect the period-to-period comparability of our operating performance. Other income (expense) items, net include interest expense, interest income, and other income (expense), net (as stated in our Condensed Consolidated Statement of Operations). Our management and Board of Directors use this financial measure to evaluate our operating performance. It is also a significant performance measure in our annual incentive

 


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compensation programs.

Restructuring and other costs, net.

Restructuring and other costs, net include restructuring expenses as well as other charges that are unusual in nature, are the result of unplanned events, and arise outside the ordinary course of our business such as employee severance costs, costs for consolidating duplicate facilities, third-party fees relating to the modification of our convertible debt, and the release of a pre-acquisition contingency.

Amortization of acquired intangible assets.

We exclude the amortization of acquired intangible assets from non-GAAP expense and income measures. These amounts are inconsistent in amount and frequency and are significantly impacted by the timing and size of acquisitions. Providing a supplemental measure which excludes these charges allows management and investors to evaluate results “as-if” the acquired intangible assets had been developed internally rather than acquired and, therefore, provides a supplemental measure of performance in which our acquired intellectual property is treated in a comparable manner to our internally developed intellectual property. Although we exclude amortization of acquired intangible assets from our non-GAAP expenses, we believe that it is important for investors to understand that such intangible assets contribute to revenue generation. Amortization of intangible assets that relate to past acquisitions will recur in future periods until such intangible assets have been fully amortized. Future acquisitions may result in the amortization of additional intangible assets.

Non-cash expenses.

We provide non-GAAP information relative to the following non-cash expenses: (i) stock-based compensation; and (ii) non-cash interest. These items are further discussed as follows:

(i)
Stock-based compensation. Because of varying valuation methodologies, subjective assumptions and the variety of award types, we exclude stock-based compensation from our operating results. We evaluate performance both with and without these measures because compensation expense related to stock-based compensation is typically non-cash and awards granted are influenced by the Company’s stock price and other factors such as volatility that are beyond our control. The expense related to stock-based awards is generally not controllable in the short-term and can vary significantly based on the timing, size and nature of awards granted. As such, we do not include such charges in operating plans. Stock-based compensation will continue in future periods.
(ii)
Non-cash interest. We exclude non-cash interest because we believe that excluding this expense provides management, as well as other users of the financial statements, with a valuable perspective on the cash-based performance and health of the business, including the current near-term projected liquidity. Non-cash interest expense will continue in future periods.

 


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Other expenses.

We exclude certain other expenses that result from unplanned events outside the ordinary course of continuing operations, in order to measure operating performance and current and future liquidity both with and without these expenses. By providing this information, we believe management and the users of the financial statements are better able to understand the financial results of what we consider to be our organic, continuing operations. Included in these expenses are items such as other charges (credits), net, losses from extinguishment of debt, and changes in indemnification assets corresponding with the release of pre-spin liabilities for uncertain tax positions.

Adjustments to income tax provision.

Adjustments to our GAAP income tax provision to arrive at non-GAAP net income is determined based on our non-GAAP pre-tax income. Additionally, as our non-GAAP profitability is higher based on the non-GAAP adjustments, we adjust the GAAP tax provision to remove valuation allowances and related effects based on the higher level of reported non-GAAP profitability. We also exclude from our non-GAAP tax provision certain discrete tax items as they occur.

Key Performance Indicators

We believe that providing key performance indicators (“KPIs”) allows investors to gain insight into the way management views the performance of the business. We further believe that providing KPIs allows investors to better understand information used by management to evaluate and measure such performance. KPIs should not be considered superior to, or a substitute for, operating results prepared in accordance with GAAP. In assessing the performance of the business during the three months ended June 30, 2024, our management has reviewed the following KPIs, each of which is described below:

Percent of worldwide auto production with Cerence Technology: The number of Cerence enabled cars shipped as compared to IHS Markit car production data.
Change in number of Cerence connected cars shipped: The year-over-year change in the number of cars shipped with Cerence connected solutions. Amounts calculated on a TTM basis.
Change in Adjusted total billings YoY (TTM): The year over year change in total billings adjusted to exclude Professional Services, prepay billings and prepay consumption.

____________

See the tables at the end of this press release for non-GAAP reconciliations to the most directly comparable GAAP measures.

To learn more about Cerence, visit www.cerence.com, and follow the company on LinkedIn and Twitter.

About Cerence Inc.

Cerence (NASDAQ: CRNC) is the global industry leader in creating unique, moving experiences for the mobility world. As an innovation partner to the world’s leading automakers and mobility OEMs, it is helping advance the future of connected mobility through intuitive, AI-powered interaction between humans and their vehicles,

 


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connecting consumers’ digital lives to their daily journeys no matter where they are. Cerence’s track record is built on more than 20 years of knowledge and 500 million cars shipped with Cerence technology. Whether it’s connected cars, autonomous driving, e-vehicles, or two-wheelers, Cerence is mapping the road ahead. For more information, visit www.cerence.com.

Contact Information


Rich Yerganian

Senior Vice President of Investor Relations

Cerence Inc.

Tel: 617-987-4799

Email: richard.yerganian@cerence.com

 

 

 


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CERENCE INC.

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations

(in thousands, except per share data)

 

 

Three Months Ended

 

 

Nine Months Ended

 

 

 

June 30,

 

 

June 30,

 

 

 

2024

 

 

2023

 

 

2024

 

 

2023

 

Revenues:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

License

 

$

43,055

 

 

$

25,837

 

 

$

99,405

 

 

$

102,054

 

Connected services

 

 

10,939

 

 

 

18,583

 

 

 

121,356

 

 

 

55,903

 

Professional services

 

 

16,545

 

 

 

17,240

 

 

 

55,938

 

 

 

55,754

 

Total revenues

 

 

70,539

 

 

 

61,660

 

 

 

276,699

 

 

 

213,711

 

Cost of revenues:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

License

 

 

1,795

 

 

 

2,343

 

 

 

4,803

 

 

 

6,166

 

Connected services

 

 

5,718

 

 

 

5,562

 

 

 

18,380

 

 

 

18,218

 

Professional services

 

 

12,592

 

 

 

12,930

 

 

 

44,036

 

 

 

47,441

 

Amortization of intangible assets

 

 

 

 

 

103

 

 

 

103

 

 

 

310

 

Total cost of revenues

 

 

20,105

 

 

 

20,938

 

 

 

67,322

 

 

 

72,135

 

Gross profit

 

 

50,434

 

 

 

40,722

 

 

 

209,377

 

 

 

141,576

 

Operating expenses:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Research and development

 

 

31,184

 

 

 

30,202

 

 

 

96,336

 

 

 

88,190

 

Sales and marketing

 

 

5,208

 

 

 

4,277

 

 

 

16,898

 

 

 

21,656

 

General and administrative

 

 

9,831

 

 

 

13,019

 

 

 

39,283

 

 

 

46,453

 

Amortization of intangible assets

 

 

550

 

 

 

553

 

 

 

1,650

 

 

 

5,297

 

Restructuring and other costs, net

 

 

1,490

 

 

 

1,172

 

 

 

6,746

 

 

 

11,075

 

Goodwill impairment

 

 

357,076

 

 

 

 

 

 

609,172

 

 

 

 

Total operating expenses

 

 

405,339

 

 

 

49,223

 

 

 

770,085

 

 

 

172,671

 

Loss from operations

 

 

(354,905

)

 

 

(8,501

)

 

 

(560,708

)

 

 

(31,095

)

Interest income

 

 

1,287

 

 

 

1,207

 

 

 

3,909

 

 

 

3,240

 

Interest expense

 

 

(3,104

)

 

 

(4,120

)

 

 

(9,451

)

 

 

(11,637

)

Other income (expense), net

 

 

626

 

 

 

(2,030

)

 

 

2,023

 

 

 

2,757

 

Loss before income taxes

 

 

(356,096

)

 

 

(13,444

)

 

 

(564,227

)

 

 

(36,735

)

(Benefit from) provision for income taxes

 

 

(42,553

)

 

 

3,011

 

 

 

3,435

 

 

 

7,967

 

Net loss

 

$

(313,543

)

 

$

(16,455

)

 

$

(567,662

)

 

$

(44,702

)

Net loss per share:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Basic

 

$

(7.50

)

 

$

(0.41

)

 

$

(13.66

)

 

$

(1.11

)

Diluted

 

$

(7.50

)

 

$

(0.41

)

 

$

(13.66

)

 

$

(1.11

)

Weighted-average common share outstanding:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Basic

 

 

41,795

 

 

 

40,324

 

 

 

41,566

 

 

 

40,167

 

Diluted

 

 

41,795

 

 

 

40,324

 

 

 

41,566

 

 

 

40,167

 

 

 

 

 


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CERENCE INC.

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets

(in thousands, except per share amounts)

 

June 30,

 

 

September 30,

 

 

2024

 

 

2023

 

 

(Unaudited)

 

 

 

 

ASSETS

 

 

 

 

 

 

Current assets:

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents

 

$

115,522

 

 

 

101,154

 

Marketable securities

 

 

5,441

 

 

 

9,211

 

Accounts receivable, net of allowances of $1,607 and $4,044

 

 

72,799

 

 

 

61,270

 

Deferred costs

 

 

5,563

 

 

 

6,935

 

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

 

 

40,230

 

 

 

47,157

 

Total current assets

 

 

239,555

 

 

 

225,727

 

Long-term marketable securities

 

 

5,343

 

 

 

10,607

 

Property and equipment, net

 

 

30,731

 

 

 

34,013

 

Deferred costs

 

 

18,267

 

 

 

20,299

 

Operating lease right of use assets

 

 

11,553

 

 

 

11,961

 

Goodwill

 

 

292,276

 

 

 

900,342

 

Intangible assets, net

 

 

2,184

 

 

 

3,875

 

Deferred tax assets

 

 

50,102

 

 

 

46,601

 

Other assets

 

 

23,970

 

 

 

44,165

 

Total assets

 

$

673,981

 

 

$

1,297,590

 

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY

 

 

 

 

 

 

Current liabilities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

Accounts payable

 

$

10,303

 

 

$

16,873

 

Deferred revenue

 

 

43,785

 

 

 

77,068

 

Short-term operating lease liabilities

 

 

4,646

 

 

 

5,434

 

Short-term debt

 

 

86,945

 

 

 

-

 

Accrued expenses and other current liabilities

 

 

37,563

 

 

 

48,718

 

Total current liabilities

 

 

183,242

 

 

 

148,093

 

Long-term debt

 

 

193,435

 

 

 

275,951

 

Deferred revenue, net of current portion

 

 

109,262

 

 

 

145,531

 

Long-term operating lease liabilities

 

 

7,577

 

 

 

7,947

 

Other liabilities

 

 

26,265

 

 

 

25,193

 

Total liabilities

 

 

519,781

 

 

 

602,715

 

Stockholders' Equity:

 

 

 

 

 

 

Common stock, $0.01 par value, 560,000 shares authorized; 41,804 and 40,423 shares issued and outstanding, respectively

 

 

418

 

 

 

404

 

Accumulated other comprehensive loss

 

 

(28,587

)

 

 

(27,966

)

Additional paid-in capital

 

 

1,083,693

 

 

 

1,056,099

 

Accumulated deficit

 

 

(901,324

)

 

 

(333,662

)

Total stockholders' equity

 

 

154,200

 

 

 

694,875

 

Total liabilities and stockholders' equity

 

$

673,981

 

 

$

1,297,590

 

 

 


img86656129_0.jpg 

 

CERENCE INC.

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

(in thousands)

 

 

Nine Months Ended

 

 

 

June 30,

 

 

 

2024

 

 

2023

 

Cash flows from operating activities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net loss

 

$

(567,662

)

 

$

(44,702

)

Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash provided by (used in) operations:

 

 

 

 

 

 

Depreciation and amortization

 

 

8,049

 

 

 

13,151

 

Provision for credit loss reserve

 

 

3,624

 

 

 

3,626

 

Stock-based compensation

 

 

19,291

 

 

 

31,801

 

Non-cash interest expense

 

 

4,481

 

 

 

1,450

 

Loss on debt extinguishment

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,333

 

Deferred tax (benefit) provision

 

 

(2,877

)

 

 

1,536

 

Goodwill impairment

 

 

609,172

 

 

 

-

 

Unrealized foreign currency transaction losses (gains)

 

 

507

 

 

 

(5,441

)

Other

 

 

(37

)

 

 

(4,004

)

Changes in operating assets and liabilities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

Accounts receivable

 

 

(3,762

)

 

 

(10,951

)

Prepaid expenses and other assets

 

 

16,800

 

 

 

19,902

 

Deferred costs

 

 

3,589

 

 

 

2,511

 

Accounts payable

 

 

(6,233

)

 

 

4,799

 

Accrued expenses and other liabilities

 

 

(3,236

)

 

 

(334

)

Deferred revenue

 

 

(70,625

)

 

 

(18,437

)

Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities

 

 

11,081

 

 

 

(3,760

)

Cash flows from investing activities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

Capital expenditures

 

 

(3,550

)

 

 

(3,597

)

Purchases of marketable securities

 

 

-

 

 

 

(18,025

)

Sale and maturities of marketable securities

 

 

9,207

 

 

 

20,200

 

Other investing activities

 

 

(1,332

)

 

 

(1,024

)

Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities

 

 

4,325

 

 

 

(2,446

)

Cash flows from financing activities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

Proceeds from revolving credit facility

 

 

-

 

 

 

24,700

 

Proceeds from long-term debt, net of discount

 

 

-

 

 

 

190,000

 

Payments for long-term debt issuance costs

 

 

(419

)

 

 

(16,786

)

Principal payments of long-term debt

 

 

-

 

 

 

(198,438

)

Common stock repurchases for tax withholdings for net settlement of equity awards

 

 

(9,857

)

 

 

(4,834

)

Principal payment of lease liabilities arising from a finance lease

 

 

(303

)

 

 

(355

)

Proceeds from the issuance of common stock

 

 

10,637

 

 

 

4,687

 

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities

 

 

58

 

 

 

(1,026

)

Effects of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents

 

 

(1,096

)

 

 

(1,515

)

Net change in cash and cash equivalents

 

 

14,368

 

 

 

(8,747

)

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period

 

 

101,154

 

 

 

94,847

 

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period

 

$

115,522

 

 

$

86,100

 

 

 


img86656129_0.jpg 

 

CERENCE INC.

Reconciliations of GAAP Financial Measures to Non-GAAP Financial Measures

(unaudited - in thousands)

 

 

Three Months Ended

 

 

Nine Months Ended

 

 

 

June 30,

 

 

June 30,

 

 

 

2024

 

 

2023

 

 

2024

 

 

2023

 

GAAP revenue

 

$

70,539

 

 

$

61,660

 

 

$

276,699

 

 

$

213,711

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

GAAP gross profit

 

$

50,434

 

 

$

40,722

 

 

$

209,377

 

 

$

141,576

 

Stock-based compensation

 

 

642

 

 

 

163

 

 

 

1,948

 

 

 

2,699

 

Amortization of intangible assets

 

 

-

 

 

 

103

 

 

 

103

 

 

 

310

 

Non-GAAP gross profit

 

$

51,076

 

 

$

40,988

 

 

$

211,428

 

 

$

144,585

 

GAAP gross margin

 

 

71.5

%

 

 

66.0

%

 

 

75.7

%

 

 

66.2

%

Non-GAAP gross margin

 

 

72.4

%

 

 

66.5

%

 

 

76.4

%

 

 

67.7

%

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

GAAP operating loss

 

$

(354,905

)

 

$

(8,501

)

 

$

(560,708

)

 

$

(31,095

)

Stock-based compensation

 

 

6,166

 

 

 

6,974

 

 

 

19,291

 

 

 

31,801

 

Amortization of intangible assets

 

 

550

 

 

 

656

 

 

 

1,753

 

 

 

5,607

 

Restructuring and other costs, net

 

 

1,490

 

 

 

1,172

 

 

 

6,746

 

 

 

11,075

 

Goodwill impairment

 

 

357,076

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

609,172

 

 

 

-

 

Non-GAAP operating income

 

$

10,377

 

 

$

301

 

 

$

76,254

 

 

$

17,388

 

GAAP operating margin

 

 

-503.1

%

 

 

-13.8

%

 

 

-202.6

%

 

 

-14.6

%

Non-GAAP operating margin

 

 

14.7

%

 

 

0.5

%

 

 

27.6

%

 

 

8.1

%

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

GAAP net loss

 

$

(313,543

)

 

$

(16,455

)

 

$

(567,662

)

 

$

(44,702

)

Stock-based compensation

 

 

6,166

 

 

 

6,974

 

 

 

19,291

 

 

 

31,801

 

Amortization of intangible assets

 

 

550

 

 

 

656

 

 

 

1,753

 

 

 

5,607

 

Restructuring and other costs, net

 

 

1,490

 

 

 

1,172

 

 

 

6,746

 

 

 

11,075

 

Goodwill impairment

 

 

357,076

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

609,172

 

 

 

-

 

Depreciation

 

 

2,115

 

 

 

2,462

 

 

 

6,296

 

 

 

7,544

 

Total other expense, net

 

 

(1,191

)

 

 

(4,943

)

 

 

(3,519

)

 

 

(5,640

)

(Benefit from) provision for income taxes

 

 

(42,553

)

 

 

3,011

 

 

 

3,435

 

 

 

7,967

 

Adjusted EBITDA

 

$

12,492

 

 

$

2,763

 

 

$

82,550

 

 

$

24,932

 

GAAP net loss margin

 

 

-444.5

%

 

 

-26.7

%

 

 

-205.2

%

 

 

-20.9

%

Adjusted EBITDA margin

 

 

17.7

%

 

 

4.5

%

 

 

29.8

%

 

 

11.7

%

 

 

 

 

 


img86656129_0.jpg 

 

CERENCE INC.

Reconciliations of GAAP Financial Measures to Non-GAAP Financial Measures (cont.)

(unaudited - in thousands, except per share data)

 

 

Three Months Ended

 

 

Nine Months Ended

 

 

 

June 30,

 

 

June 30,

 

 

 

2024

 

 

2023

 

 

2024

 

 

2023

 

GAAP net loss

 

$

(313,543

)

 

$

(16,455

)

 

$

(567,662

)

 

$

(44,702

)

Stock-based compensation

 

 

6,166

 

 

 

6,974

 

 

 

19,291

 

 

 

31,801

 

Amortization of intangible assets

 

 

550

 

 

 

656

 

 

 

1,753

 

 

 

5,607

 

Restructuring and other costs, net

 

 

1,490

 

 

 

1,172

 

 

 

6,746

 

 

 

11,075

 

Loss on debt extinguishment

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,333

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

1,333

 

Goodwill impairment

 

 

357,076

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

609,172

 

 

 

-

 

Non-cash interest expense

 

 

1,542

 

 

 

540

 

 

 

4,481

 

 

 

1,450

 

Other

 

 

(30

)

 

 

(25

)

 

 

(86

)

 

 

(844

)

Adjustments to income tax expense

 

 

(44,867

)

 

 

4,144

 

 

 

(14,584

)

 

 

5,107

 

Non-GAAP net income (loss)

 

$

8,384

 

 

$

(1,661

)

 

$

59,111

 

 

$

10,827

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Adjusted EPS:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

GAAP Numerator:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net loss attributed to common shareholders - basic and diluted

 

$

(313,543

)

 

$

(16,455

)

 

$

(567,662

)

 

$

(44,702

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Non-GAAP Numerator:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net income (loss) attributed to common shareholders - basic

 

$

8,384

 

 

$

(1,661

)

 

$

59,111

 

 

$

10,827

 

Interest on the Notes, net of tax

 

 

604

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

3,335

 

 

 

-

 

Net income (loss) attributed to common shareholders - diluted

 

$

8,988

 

 

$

(1,661

)

 

$

62,446

 

 

$

10,827

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

GAAP Denominator:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Weighted-average common shares outstanding - basic and diluted

 

 

41,795

 

 

 

40,324

 

 

 

41,566

 

 

 

40,167

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Non-GAAP Denominator:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Weighted-average common shares outstanding- basic

 

 

41,795

 

 

 

40,324

 

 

 

41,566

 

 

 

40,167

 

Adjustment for diluted shares

 

 

5,157

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

7,759

 

 

 

197

 

Weighted-average common shares outstanding - diluted

 

 

46,952

 

 

 

40,324

 

 

 

49,325

 

 

 

40,364

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

GAAP net loss per share - diluted

 

$

(7.50

)

 

$

(0.41

)

 

$

(13.66

)

 

$

(1.11

)

Non-GAAP net income (loss) per share - diluted

 

$

0.19

 

 

$

(0.04

)

 

$

1.27

 

 

$

0.27

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

GAAP net cash provided by (used in) operating activities

 

$

12,852

 

 

$

(8,197

)

 

$

11,081

 

 

$

(3,760

)

Capital expenditures

 

 

(774

)

 

 

(1,520

)

 

 

(3,550

)

 

 

(3,597

)

Free Cash Flow

 

$

12,078

 

 

$

(9,717

)

 

$

7,531

 

 

$

(7,357

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


img86656129_0.jpg 

 

CERENCE INC.

Reconciliations of GAAP Financial Measures to Non-GAAP Financial Measures (cont.)

(unaudited - in thousands)

 

Q4 2024

 

 

FY2024

 

 

Low

 

 

High

 

 

Low

 

 

High

 

GAAP revenue

 

$

44,000

 

 

$

50,000

 

 

$

320,700

 

 

$

326,700

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

GAAP gross profit

 

$

24,200

 

 

$

30,200

 

 

$

233,500

 

 

$

239,500

 

Stock-based compensation

 

 

300

 

 

 

300

 

 

 

2,300

 

 

 

2,300

 

Amortization of intangible assets

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

100

 

 

 

100

 

Non-GAAP gross profit

 

$

24,500

 

 

$

30,500

 

 

$

235,900

 

 

$

241,900

 

GAAP gross margin

 

 

55

%

 

 

60

%

 

 

73

%

 

 

73

%

Non-GAAP gross margin

 

 

56

%

 

 

61

%

 

 

74

%

 

 

74

%

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

GAAP operating loss

 

$

(35,900

)

 

$

(31,600

)

 

$

(596,500

)

 

$

(592,200

)

Stock-based compensation

 

 

4,000

 

 

 

4,000

 

 

 

23,300

 

 

 

23,300

 

Amortization of intangible assets

 

 

600

 

 

 

600

 

 

 

2,300

 

 

 

2,300

 

Restructuring and other costs, net

 

 

10,400

 

 

 

12,100

 

 

 

17,100

 

 

 

18,800

 

Goodwill impairment

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

609,200

 

 

 

609,200

 

Non-GAAP operating (loss) income

 

$

(20,900

)

 

$

(14,900

)

 

$

55,400

 

 

$

61,400

 

GAAP operating margin

 

 

-82

%

 

 

-63

%

 

 

-186

%

 

 

-181

%

Non-GAAP operating margin

 

 

-48

%

 

 

-30

%

 

 

17

%

 

 

19

%

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

GAAP net loss

 

$

(32,200

)

 

$

(27,900

)

 

$

(599,900

)

 

$

(595,600

)

Stock-based compensation

 

 

4,000

 

 

 

4,000

 

 

 

23,300

 

 

 

23,300

 

Amortization of intangible assets

 

 

600

 

 

 

600

 

 

 

2,300

 

 

 

2,300

 

Restructuring and other costs, net

 

 

10,400

 

 

 

12,100

 

 

 

17,100

 

 

 

18,800

 

Goodwill impairment

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

609,200

 

 

 

609,200

 

Depreciation

 

 

2,200

 

 

 

2,200

 

 

 

8,500

 

 

 

8,500

 

Total other expense, net

 

 

(2,000

)

 

 

(2,000

)

 

 

(5,600

)

 

 

(5,600

)

Benefit from income taxes

 

 

(5,600

)

 

 

(5,600

)

 

 

(2,200

)

 

 

(2,200

)

Adjusted EBITDA

 

$

(18,600

)

 

$

(12,600

)

 

$

63,900

 

 

$

69,900

 

GAAP net loss margin

 

 

-73

%

 

 

-56

%

 

 

-187

%

 

 

-182

%

Adjusted EBITDA margin

 

 

-42

%

 

 

-25

%

 

 

20

%

 

 

21

%

 

 

 


img86656129_0.jpg 

 

CERENCE INC.

Reconciliations of GAAP Financial Measures to Non-GAAP Financial Measures (cont.)

(unaudited - in thousands, except per share data)

 

 

Q4 2024

 

 

FY2024

 

 

Low

 

 

High

 

 

Low

 

 

High

 

GAAP net loss

 

$

(32,200

)

 

$

(27,900

)

 

$

(599,900

)

 

$

(595,600

)

Stock-based compensation

 

 

4,000

 

 

 

4,000

 

 

 

23,300

 

 

 

23,300

 

Amortization of intangibles

 

 

600

 

 

 

600

 

 

 

2,300

 

 

 

2,300

 

Restructuring and other costs, net

 

 

10,400

 

 

 

12,100

 

 

 

17,100

 

 

 

18,800

 

Non-cash interest expense

 

 

1,500

 

 

 

1,500

 

 

 

6,000

 

 

 

6,000

 

Goodwill impairment

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

609,200

 

 

 

609,200

 

Other

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

(100

)

 

 

(100

)

Adjustments to income tax expense

 

 

(3,000

)

 

 

(3,000

)

 

 

(17,700

)

 

 

(23,700

)

Non-GAAP net (loss) income

 

$

(18,700

)

 

$

(12,700

)

 

$

40,200

 

 

$

40,200

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Adjusted EPS:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

GAAP Numerator:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net loss attributed to common shareholders - basic and diluted

 

$

(32,200

)

 

$

(27,900

)

 

$

(599,900

)

 

$

(595,600

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Non-GAAP Numerator:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net (loss) income attributed to common shareholders - basic

 

$

(18,700

)

 

$

(12,700

)

 

$

40,200

 

 

$

40,200

 

Interest on the Notes, net of tax

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

4,500

 

 

 

4,500

 

Net (loss) income attributed to common shareholders - diluted

 

$

(18,700

)

 

$

(12,700

)

 

$

44,700

 

 

$

44,700

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

GAAP Denominator:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Weighted-average common shares outstanding - basic and diluted

 

 

41,800

 

 

 

41,800

 

 

 

41,600

 

 

 

41,600

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Non-GAAP Denominator:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Weighted-average common shares outstanding- basic

 

 

41,800

 

 

 

41,800

 

 

 

41,600

 

 

 

41,600

 

Adjustment for diluted shares

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

7,700

 

 

 

7,700

 

Weighted-average common shares outstanding - diluted

 

 

41,800

 

 

 

41,800

 

 

 

49,300

 

 

 

49,300

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

GAAP net loss per share - diluted

 

$

(0.77

)

 

$

(0.67

)

 

$

(14.42

)

 

$

(14.32

)

Non-GAAP net (loss) income per share - diluted

 

$

(0.45

)

 

$

(0.30

)

 

$

0.91

 

 

$

0.91

 

 

 

 


Slide 1

Cerence Q3 FY24 Earnings Presentation Stefan Ortmanns, Chief Executive Officer Tony Rodriquez, Interim Chief Financial Officer Rich Yerganian, SVP of Investor Relations August 8, 2024 Exhibit 99.2


Slide 2

Forward-Looking Statements Statements in this presentation regarding: Cerence’s future performance, results and financial condition; expected growth and profitability; outlook; fiscal year 2025 framework; transformation plans and cost efficiency initiatives, including estimated net cost savings; strategy; opportunities; business, industry and market trends; strategy regarding fixed contracts and its impact on financial results; backlog; revenue visibility, revenue timing and mix, demand for Cerence products; innovation and new product offerings, including AI technology; expected benefits of technology partnerships; cost efficiency initiatives; and management’s future expectations, estimates, assumptions, beliefs, goals, objectives, targets, plans or prospects constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Any statements that are not statements of historical fact (including statements containing the words “believes,” “plans,” “anticipates,” "projects," "forecasts," “expects,” “intends,” "continues," "will," "may," or “estimates” or similar expressions) should also be considered to be forward-looking statements. Although we believe forward-looking statements are based upon reasonable assumptions, such statements involve known and unknown risk, uncertainties and other factors, which may cause actual results or performance of the company to be materially different from any future results or performance expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, including, but not limited to: the highly competitive and rapidly changing market in which we operate; adverse conditions in the automotive industry, the related supply chain and semiconductor shortage, or the global economy more generally; automotive production delays; changes in customer forecasts; the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on our and our customers’ businesses; the impact of the war in Ukraine, conflict between Israel and Hamas, and attacks on commercial ships in the Red Sea on our and our customers’ businesses; our inability to control and successfully manage our expenses and cash position; our ability to deliver improved financial results from process optimization efforts and cost reduction actions; escalating pricing pressures from our customers; the impact on our business of the transition to a lower level of fixed contracts, including the failure to achieve such a transition; our failure to win, renew or implement service contracts; the cancellation or postponement of existing contracts; the loss of business from any of our largest customers; effects of customer defaults; our inability to successfully introduce new products, applications and services; our strategies to increase cloud offerings and deploy generative AI and large language models (LLMs); the inability to expand into adjacent markets; the inability to recruit and retain qualified personnel; disruptions arising from transitions in management personnel; cybersecurity and data privacy incidents; failure to protect our intellectual property; defects or interruptions in service with respect to our products; fluctuating currency rates and interest rates; inflation; financial and credit market volatility; and the other factors discussed in our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.  We caution you not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date made.  We undertake no obligation to update any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as otherwise required by law. 


Slide 3

Q3 Results and Full Year Outlook Q3 revenue at the midpoint of guidance GAAP profitability metrics effected by Goodwill impairment charge of approximately $357 million Non-GAAP Gross Margin was within the range, while all other profitability metrics were above the guidance provided in the Q2 earnings call Positive cash flow from operations at $12.9 million Narrowing full year revenue outlook within the prior range


Slide 4

Hybrid / Edge / Cloud Leading Provider of Audio & Voice AI Experiences OUR EXPERTISE & INNOVATION FOUNDATION CUSTOMER EMPOWERMENT Conversational & Generative AI Audio & Communication AI AI-Driven Safety Support OUR SOLUTIONS Continuous Technology Innovation Control of Data & Brand Customization & Integration Scalable & Extensible AI Platform 500M+ Cars shipped with Cerence Tech 80+ Global OEMs and Tier1s 70+ Languages Supported ~700 Patents 60B+ Tokens (Dataset) Fast Delivery & TTM 53% of WW Auto Production (TTM)


Slide 5

Transforming to Achieve Long-Term Profitability Adjusting cost structure of the business with the objective of achieving consistent positive Adj. EBITDA and cash flow from operations Plan to reinvest a portion of cost savings to support Gen AI roadmap and next-gen platform Initial expectations are to achieve net annualized cost savings on a run-rate basis of approximately $35 to $40 million dollars which will be predominantly realized in FY2025 $35M-$40M Estimated Annualized Net Reduction


Slide 6

Cerence Generative AI Products for Pre- and Post-SOP 8 OEM design wins (year-to-date) 5 program launches in Q3FY24 with 4 OEMs 4 additional launches with global OEMs expected in CY24 Strong validated pipeline through pre-development programs Growth in price-per-unit Positive impact in customer experience and usage Car Knowledge CA with NLU Plus Chat Pro Cost-efficient LLM solutions


Slide 7

Powering Next-Level User Experiences Technology Vision. Large Multimodal Models will become the new computing engine enabling a single conversational interface to work across applications to complete tasks based on user preferences. Companion Applications Cerence Automotive LLM Conversational, Multimodal (Voice + Touch) Cerence AI Computing System


Slide 8

Q3 FY24 Financial Details Tony Rodriquez, Interim CFO


Slide 9

Cerence Q3FY24 Results Q3FY23 Q3FY24 Q3FY24 Guidance Total Revenue $61.7M $70.5M(a) $66M - $72M GAAP Gross Margin 66.0% 71.5% 70% - 72% GAAP Net Income (Loss) ($16.5M) ($313.5M) (b) ($4M) – $2M Non-GAAP Net Income(b,c) ($1.7M) $8.4M Adjusted EBITDA(b,c) $2.8M $12.5M $5M – $11M GAAP EPS – diluted ($0.41) ($7.50) (b) ($0.10) – $0.05 Non-GAAP EPS – diluted(b,c) ($0.04) $0.19 ($0.01) – $0.13 Cash Flow From Operations ($8.2M) $12.9M Cash Balance & Marketable Securities $116M $126M  Includes a $20 million fixed license Includes a $357 million Goodwill impairment charge in Q3FY24. Non-GAAP excludes goodwill impairment, amortization of acquired intangible assets, stock-based compensation, restructuring and other costs.  Refer to the Appendix for more information on GAAP to non-GAAP reconciliations and related definitions.


Slide 10

In millions Q1FY23 Q2FY23 Q3FY23 Q4FY23 FY23 Q1FY24 Q2FY24 Q3FY24 Total License: $45.4 $30.8 $25.9 $43.1 $145.2 $20.8 $35.5 $43.1      Variable(a) $26.3 $26.2 $25.8 $30.3 $108.6 $20.8 $25.1 $23.1      Total Fixed(b) $19.1 $4.6 $0 $12.8 $36.5 $0 $10.4 $20.0 Connected Services: $18.4 $18.9 $18.6 $19.2 $75.1 $96.8 $13.6 $10.9      Connected Services $9.9 $10.5 $10.2 $10.8 $41.4 $10.2 $13.6(c) $10.9      Legacy(d) $8.5 $8.4 $8.4 $8.4 $33.7 $86.6 $0 $0 Professional Services $19.9 $18.7 $17.2 $18.5 $74.3 $20.7 $18.7 $16.5 Total Revenue $83.7 $68.4 $61.7 $80.8 $294.6 $138.3 $67.8 $70.5 Based on volume shipments of licenses net of the consumption of fixed contracts. Fixed license revenue includes prepaid and minimum commitment deals. Q1FY23 Fixed Licenses includes a $1.1 million minimum commitment deal. Connected services in Q2FY24 includes a $2.6 million true up adjustment due to underreporting from an OEM. Legacy contract is a connected services contract with Toyota acquired by Nuance through a 2013 acquisition. Toyota decommissioned the solution in Q1FY24 resulting in the acceleration of deferred revenue in Q1FY24 for Toyota and a directly related contract. Detailed Revenue Breakdown


Slide 11

In millions FY23 FY24 Operational Metrics: FY22 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 FY23 Q1 Q2 Q3 Pro Forma Royalties(a) $159.9 $41.7 $43.1 $44.5 $42.6 $171.9 $40.0 $39.6 $39.6 Consumption of      Fixed Contracts(b)  $76.8 $15.4 $16.9 $18.7 $15.5 $66.5 $14.5 $14.5 $16.5 IHS Production (units) 81.5 21.9 21.4 22.3 22.6 88.2 24.2 21.4 22.1 Variable License $83.1 $26.3 $26.2 $25.8 $30.3 $108.6 $20.8 $25.1 $23.1    OEM-Related      Adjustments Included in    Variable License(c) $0 $0 $0 $0 ($3.2) ($3.2) $4.7 $0 $0 Variable excluding OEM Related Adjustments $83.1 $26.3 $26.2 $25.8 $27.1 $105.4 $25.5 $25.1 $23.1 Pro forma Royalties is an operating measure representing total value of licenses shipped in a quarter. It includes the consumption of fixed contracts. It excludes any OEM-Related Adjustments.  Licenses shipped in the quarter associated with fixed contracts. OEM-Related Adjustments defined as the total of individual  OEM–related adjustments greater than $2 million in any one quarter. Operational Metrics and Variable License Revenue


Slide 12

Q3 FY24 KPI(d) Performance Percent of worldwide auto production with Cerence Technology declined slightly to 53% (TTM)(a)  Approximately 11.7 million units shipped with Cerence technology in Q3 Down 6.2% YoY (IHS down 0.5% YoY) Up 3.0% QoQ (IHS up 3.3% QoQ) Change in number of Cerence connected cars shipped(c) up 19% Change in Adjusted Total Billings(b,c) increased 3% Based on IHS Markit data, global auto production increased 4% over the same time period ended on Jun 30, 2024. Calculated on a trailing twelve months basis (TTM) Change in Adjusted total billings YoY (TTM): The year over year change in total billings adjusted to exclude Professional Services, prepay billings and prepay consumption. TTM over prior year TTM Please refer to the appendix for KPI definitions. 12


Slide 13

Fiscal Q4 Guidance and FY24 Revision No fixed contracts expected during the fourth quarter Adjustments to full year guidance for GAAP operating results include Goodwill impairment charge of $357 million in the third quarter Q4 and Full Year GAAP operating results include certain expenses associated with the transformation of between $10 and $12 million Q4FY24  Guidance Revised FY24  Guidance Prior FY24(c) Guidance In millions except per share amounts Low High Low High Low High Revenue $44 $50 $321 $327 $318 $332 GAAP Gross Margin 55% 60% 73% 73% 73% 74% Non-GAAP Gross Margin (a,b) 56% 61% 74% 74% 73% 75% GAAP Operating Margin (82%) (63%) (186%) (181%) (76%) (68%) Non-GAAP Operating Margin (a,b) (48%) (30%) 17% 19% 16% 19% GAAP Net Income (Loss) ($32) ($28) ($600) ($596) ($256) ($242) GAAP Net Income Margin (73%) (56%) (187%) (182%) (80%) (73%) Adjusted EBITDA (a,b) ($19) ($13) $64 $70 $58 $72     Adjusted EBITDA Margin (a,b) (42%) (25%) 20% 21% 18% 22% GAAP EPS – diluted ($0.77) ($0.67) ($14.42) ($14.32) ($6.15) ($5.81) Non-GAAP EPS – diluted (a,b) ($0.45) ($0.30) $0.91 $0.91 $0.80 $0.80 Non-GAAP excludes goodwill impairment, acquisition-related costs, amortization of acquired intangible assets, restructuring expense, and stock-based compensation.   Refer to the Appendix for more information on GAAP to non-GAAP reconciliations and related definitions. This represents guidance provided on May 9, 2024.


Slide 14

FY24 Revenue Guidance Excluding Legacy Legacy contract is a connected services contract with Toyota acquired by Nuance through a 2013 acquisition. Toyota decommissioned the solution in Q1FY24 resulting in the acceleration of deferred revenue in Q1FY24 for Toyota and a directly related contract. From Q2FY24 onward there is no more revenue associated with this contract. FY24 Guidance (at midpoint) Less: Legacy Contribution FY24 Guidance (at midpoint) Excluding Legacy Revenue $324M ($87M) $237M


Slide 15

FY25 Framework(a) Estimated net annualized cost savings of $35-$40 million predominantly realized in FY25. Flat to low-single digit percentage decline in revenue off of $237 million(b)  Improved gross margin from a FY24 business without legacy revenue Positive Adj. EBITDA with single digit margins Assumptions include: Flat OEM production and pricing mix similar to the expectations within our latest 2024 guidance Significantly less fixed license consumption than FY24 New Fixed Licenses in FY25 of approximately $20 million Modest growth in connected services Modest revenue impact due to the FY24 transformation efforts Potential Upside or Downside Factors include: Global auto production changes Start of production date shifts Pricing and mix shifts Customer satisfaction implications from cost reductions This does not represent guidance. This framework is subject to change based on a number of operating, industry and customer related factors. FY24 revenue guidance at midpoint (excluding Legacy).


Slide 16

Strategic Priorities Accomplish fiscal fourth quarter and full year financial objectives Execute on transformation plan while minimizing disruption to ongoing customer operations Deliver on AI Innovation roadmap


Slide 17

Q&A


Slide 18

Appendix


Slide 19

License Business Revenue Recognition Type of Contract Description GAAP Revenue Recognition Cash Receipt Variable License applied at production Quarter car is produced. Based on volume Quarter following GAAP revenue recognition Fixed (Pre-Pay) Bulk inventory purchase ($ based) Full value of contract at signing. Volume independent Standard payment terms for full value (upfront payment) Fixed (Minimum Commitment) Commitment to purchase ($ based) in a specified time period. (1 – 5 years) Full value of contract at signing. Volume independent Based on shipment volumes over multiple years The fixed contracts only apply to the license business. If a car is also using our connected services, it will follow the normal billing and revenue recognition process regardless of whether a variable or fixed license was applied. The fixed contracts typically provide the customer with a price discount and can include the conversion of a variable contract that is already in our variable backlog.


Slide 20

Connected and Professional Services Revenue Recognition Connected Services Typical Period GAAP Revenue Recognition Cash Receipt Subscription Term 1 – 5 years Amortized evenly over subscription period Billed/collected full amount at start of subscription period (value added to deferred revenue) Usage Contract(a),(b) 1 – 5 years Recognized at same time of billing based on actual usage Billed every quarter based on actual usage Customer Hosted(c) License Quarter in which license is delivered to customer Upon delivery (a) Approximately 30% of new connected revenue is usage based and is primarily with one customer (b) Usage can be defined by number of active users or number of monthly transactions (c) Customer Hosted is a software license that allows the customer to take possession of the software and enable hosting by the customer or a third-party Professional Services Period GAAP Revenue Recognition Cash Receipt Custom Design Services Ongoing Revenue is recognized over time based upon the progress towards completion of the project Billed/collected on milestone completion


Slide 21

KPI Measures – Definitions Key performance indicators We believe that providing key performance indicators (“KPIs”), allows investors to gain insight into the way management views the performance of the business. We further believe that providing KPIs allows investors to better understand information used by management to evaluate and measure such performance. KPIs should not be considered superior to, or a substitute for, operating results prepared in accordance with GAAP. In assessing the performance of the business during the three months ended June 30, 2024, our management has reviewed the following KPIs, each of which is described below:  Percent of worldwide auto production with Cerence technology: The number of Cerence enabled cars shipped as compared to IHS Markit car production data. Change in number of Cerence connected cars shipped: The year over year change in the number of cars shipped with Cerence connected solutions. Amounts are calculated on a TTM compared to prior TTM basis.  Change in Adjusted total billings YoY (TTM): The year over year change in total billings adjusted to exclude Professional Services, prepay billings and prepay consumption.


Slide 22

Non-GAAP Financial Measures – Definitions Discussion of Non-GAAP Financial Measures We believe that providing the non-GAAP information in addition to the GAAP presentation, allows investors to view the financial results in the way management views the operating results. We further believe that providing this information allows investors to not only better understand our financial performance, but more importantly, to evaluate the efficacy of the methodology and information used by management to evaluate and measure such performance. The non-GAAP information should not be considered superior to, or a substitute for, financial statements prepared in accordance with GAAP. We utilize a number of different financial measures, both GAAP and non-GAAP, in analyzing and assessing the overall performance of the business, for making operating decisions and for forecasting and planning for future periods. While our management uses these non-GAAP financial measures as a tool to enhance their understanding of certain aspects of our financial performance, our management does not consider these measures to be a substitute for, or superior to, the information provided by GAAP financial statements. Consistent with this approach, we believe that disclosing non-GAAP financial measures to the readers of our financial statements provides such readers with useful supplemental data that, while not a substitute for GAAP financial statements, allows for greater transparency in the review of our financial and operational performance. In assessing the overall health of the business during the three ending June 30, 2024 and 2023, our management has either included or excluded the following items in general categories, each of which is described below. Cerence is not providing a reconciliation of certain forward-looking, non-GAAP financial targets to the GAAP equivalent because Cerence is unable to provide this reconciliation without unreasonable effort due to information regarding the relevant adjustments not being ascertainable or accessible. Such information could be material to future results.


Slide 23

Non-GAAP Financial Measures – Definitions Adjusted EBITDA  Adjusted EBITDA is defined as net income attributable to Cerence Inc. before net income (loss) attributable to income tax (benefit) expense, other income (expense) items, net, depreciation and amortization expense, and excluding acquisition-related costs, amortization of acquired intangible assets, stock-based compensation, and restructuring and other costs, net or impairment charges related to fixed and intangible assets and gains or losses on the sale of long-lived assets, if any. From time to time we may exclude from Adjusted EBITDA the impact of events, gains, losses or other charges (such as significant legal settlements) that affect the period-to-period comparability of our operating performance. Other income (expense) items, net include interest expense, interest income, and other income (expense), net (as stated in our Condensed Consolidated Statement of Operations). Our management and Board of Directors use this financial measure to evaluate our operating performance. It is also a significant performance measure in our annual incentive compensation programs.   Restructuring and other costs, net. Restructuring and other charges, net include restructuring expenses as well as other charges that are unusual in nature, are the result of unplanned events, and arise outside the ordinary course of our business such as employee severance costs, costs for consolidating duplicate facilities, third-party fees relating to the modification of our convertible debt, and the release of a pre-acquisition contingency. Amortization of acquired intangible assets. We exclude the amortization of acquired intangible assets from non-GAAP expense and income measures. These amounts are inconsistent in amount and frequency and are significantly impacted by the timing and size of acquisitions. Providing a supplemental measure which excludes these charges allows management and investors to evaluate results “as-if” the acquired intangible assets had been developed internally rather than acquired and, therefore, provides a supplemental measure of performance in which our acquired intellectual property is treated in a comparable manner to our internally developed intellectual property. Although we exclude amortization of acquired intangible assets from our non-GAAP expenses, we believe that it is important for investors to understand that such intangible assets contribute to revenue generation. Amortization of intangible assets that relate to past acquisitions will recur in future periods until such intangible assets have been fully amortized. Future acquisitions may result in the amortization of additional intangible assets.


Slide 24

Non-GAAP Financial Measures – Definitions Non-cash expenses. We provide non-GAAP information relative to the following non-cash expenses: (i) stock-based compensation; and (ii) non-cash interest. These items are further discussed as follow: (i)Stock-based compensation. Because of varying valuation methodologies, subjective assumptions and the variety of award types, we exclude stock-based compensation from our operating results. We evaluate performance both with and without these measures because compensation expense related to stock-based compensation is typically non-cash and awards granted are influenced by the Company’s stock price and other factors such as volatility that are beyond our control. The expense related to stock-based awards is generally not controllable in the short-term and can vary significantly based on the timing, size and nature of awards granted. As such, we do not include such charges in operating plans. Stock-based compensation will continue in future periods. ii)Non-cash interest. We exclude non-cash interest because we believe that excluding this expense provides management, as well as other users of the financial statements, with a valuable perspective on the cash-based performance and health of the business, including the current near-term projected liquidity. Non-cash interest expense will continue in future periods. Other expenses. We exclude certain other expenses that result from unplanned events outside the ordinary course of continuing operations, in order to measure operating performance and current and future liquidity both with and without these expenses. By providing this information, we believe management and the users of the financial statements are better able to understand the financial results of what we consider to be our organic, continuing operations. Included in these expenses are items such as other charges (credits), net, losses from extinguishment of debt, and changes in indemnification assets corresponding with the release of pre-spin liabilities for uncertain tax positions.  Adjustments to income tax provision. Adjustments to our GAAP income tax provision to arrive at non-GAAP net income is determined based on our non-GAAP pre-tax income. Additionally, as our non-GAAP profitability is higher based on the non-GAAP adjustments, we adjust the GAAP tax provision to remove valuation allowances and related effects based on the higher level of reported non-GAAP profitability. We also exclude from our non-GAAP tax provision certain discrete tax items as they occur.


Slide 25

Q2 FY24 Reconciliations of GAAP to Non-GAAP Results Free cash flow is net cash provided by operating activities determined in accordance with GAAP less capital expenditures. Free cash flow is not a measure of cash available for discretionary expenditures. 1 (unaudited - in thousands) (unaudited - in thousands)


Slide 26

Q4 FY24 and Full Year FY24 Reconciliations of GAAP to non-GAAP Guidance (unaudited - in thousands)


Slide 27

Q4 FY24 and FY24 Reconciliations of GAAP to Non-GAAP Guidance (unaudited - in thousands)

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Aug. 08, 2024
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Entity Central Index Key 0001768267
Document Type 8-K
Document Period End Date Aug. 08, 2024
Entity Registrant Name CERENCE INC.
Entity Incorporation State Country Code DE
Entity File Number 001-39030
Entity Tax Identification Number 83-4177087
Entity Address, Address Line One 25 Mall Road
Entity Address, Address Line Two Suite 416
Entity Address, City or Town Burlington
Entity Address, State or Province MA
Entity Address, Postal Zip Code 01803
City Area Code (857)
Local Phone Number 362-7300
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Security 12b Title Common stock, $0.01 par value
Trading Symbol CRNC
Security Exchange Name NASDAQ
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