CBLL.NASDAQCeribell, INC

10-K: CeriBell Reports Strong Revenue Growth, Expands AI-Powered EEG Platform

Sentiment:

Annual Report


CeriBell, Inc. announced a 36% revenue increase to $89.1 million in 2025, driven by expanded adoption of its AI-powered Ceribell System and new FDA clearances for delirium and pediatric/neonatal seizure monitoring, despite continued net losses.

Delay expectedA federal government shutdown may cause delays in the progress of the USITC investigation and related proceedings concerning the patent infringement complaints against Natus Medical Incorporated.While the company expects to apply for FDA marketing authorization for its LVO stroke detection and monitoring solution within the next three years, this expectation is subject to change, and there is no guarantee of obtaining authorization within the expected timeline or at all, nor an intended timeline for commercialization.
Capital raiseThe company expects to incur losses and expend significant cash in the foreseeable future, stating it "may need to raise additional capital to fund operations, further research and development activities, or acquire, invest in, or in-license other businesses, assets, or technologies."Future capital needs will depend on various factors, including market acceptance, R&D costs, sales growth, and potential acquisitions, indicating a potential need for equity or debt financings.The company's venture loan and security agreement includes an 'Outstanding Commitment' of $30.0 million in three additional tranches, which the company may draw upon, subject to lender discretion and certain conditions.
Worse than expectedThe net loss increased significantly from $40.5 million in 2024 to $53.4 million in 2025, indicating a worsening financial bottom line.Operating expenses grew at a faster rate (42%) than total revenue growth (36%), suggesting increasing costs relative to sales.Cash and cash equivalents decreased substantially from $194.4 million to $40.5 million, although this was partially offset by investments in marketable securities, it still represents a significant reduction in readily available cash.

Summary

  • Total revenue for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2025, increased by 36% to $89.1 million, up from $65.4 million in 2024.
  • Product revenue grew 34% to $67.3 million, while subscription revenue increased 41% to $21.7 million.
  • Gross margin improved to 88% in 2025 from 87% in 2024, with subscription gross margins remaining strong at 97% for both years.
  • The company reported a net loss of $53.4 million in 2025, an increase from $40.5 million in 2024, with an accumulated deficit of $220.4 million.
  • Operating expenses rose significantly, with sales and marketing up 49% to $73.1 million, research and development up 41% to $19.1 million, and general and administrative up 31% to $44.5 million.
  • As of December 31, 2025, the Ceribell System has been adopted by over 600 hospitals.
  • FDA 510(k) clearance was granted in December 2025 for Ceribell's proprietary delirium monitoring solution, making it the first and only FDA-cleared device for this indication.
  • In January 2026, the company received FDA Breakthrough Device Designation for its Large Vessel Occlusion (LVO) stroke detection and monitoring solution.
  • The company also received FDA 510(k) clearances in April 2025 and November 2025 for its next-generation Clarity algorithm to detect electrographic seizures in pediatric patients and neonates, respectively.
  • CeriBell filed patent infringement complaints against Natus Medical Incorporated in July 2025, alleging infringement on six patents related to its EEG headband and electrode design.
  • Cash and cash equivalents, along with marketable securities, totaled $159.3 million as of December 31, 2025.
  • The company extended its exclusive license agreement with Stanford University until May 2036 for a $250,000 fee in June 2025.

Sentiment

Score: 6

Explanation: StockSavvy.ai views this as a moderately positive report, balancing strong revenue growth and significant product innovation with increasing net losses and a substantial decrease in cash, indicating continued investment in growth over immediate profitability.

Positives

  • Achieved significant revenue growth of 36% year-over-year, reaching $89.1 million in 2025.
  • Improved overall gross margin to 88% in 2025, with subscription gross margins consistently high at 97%.
  • Expanded market penetration with the Ceribell System adopted by over 600 hospitals, including top academic centers and community hospitals.
  • Secured multiple new FDA clearances and designations, including 510(k) clearance for delirium monitoring (first of its kind) and Breakthrough Device Designation for LVO stroke detection.
  • Successfully expanded the Clarity algorithm's indications to include pediatric patients and neonates for seizure detection.
  • Maintained a strong intellectual property portfolio with 58 total issued utility patents and pending applications as of December 31, 2025.
  • Extended the exclusive license agreement with Stanford University for key brain stethoscope EEG sonification technology until May 2036.
  • Received full FedRAMP High authorization in April 2025, enabling potential sales to approximately 170 Veterans Administration hospitals.
  • Demonstrated clinical and economic benefits of the Ceribell System through over 140 peer-reviewed publications, including reduced hospital length of stay and potential cost savings for hospitals and payers.

Negatives

  • Incurred a net loss of $53.4 million in 2025, an increase from $40.5 million in 2024, and has an accumulated deficit of $220.4 million.
  • Operating expenses increased significantly across all categories, outpacing revenue growth.
  • Cash and cash equivalents decreased substantially from $194.4 million in 2024 to $40.5 million in 2025, primarily due to purchases of marketable securities.
  • The company expects to incur additional substantial losses in the foreseeable future and will expend significant amounts of cash.
  • Reliance on international manufacturing and supply chain operations, particularly in China and Vietnam, exposes the company to geopolitical and trade risks.
  • The NTAP designation for the Clarity algorithm is temporary (three years from October 1, 2023), and its expiration could impact customer profit margins and adoption.
  • The company's venture loan and security agreements contain restrictions that limit operational flexibility.
  • Cash deposits with financial institutions exceed insured limits, posing a risk in case of bank failure.

Risks

  • Limited operating history and rapid growth may strain resources and make it difficult to evaluate future prospects.
  • History of net losses and expectation to incur additional substantial losses in the foreseeable future.
  • Dependence on sales from the Ceribell System; failure to achieve substantial market acceptance or diminished confidence in products would be harmful.
  • Operating in a highly competitive industry with larger, more established competitors (e.g., Natus Medical, Nihon Kohden).
  • Challenges in adapting manufacturing and production capacities to evolving demand patterns, leading to potential inventory issues.
  • Reliance on international manufacturing and supply chain operations (China, Vietnam) and changes in trade policies/tariffs could adversely affect business.
  • Failure to attract and retain senior management and other key personnel, especially in AI and software expertise.
  • Products are complex and can contain defects, leading to product liability claims, reputational harm, or costly investigations.
  • Alternative technologies addressing neurological conditions could materially adversely affect demand for products.
  • Inadequate reimbursement for diagnostic testing and procedures using products could diminish sales or profitability.
  • Employees, directors, consultants, and partners may engage in misconduct or non-compliance with regulatory standards.
  • Clinical testing and research processes are complex, lengthy, expensive, and have uncertain outcomes; future trials may fail to replicate positive results.
  • Interim, top-line, and preliminary clinical data may be modified, leading to material changes in final data.
  • Misuse or off-label use of products may result in injuries, product liability suits, reputational harm, or regulatory sanctions.
  • Reliance on third parties to conduct preclinical studies and clinical trials, who may not properly carry out duties or meet deadlines.
  • Actual or perceived failures to comply with data privacy and security laws (e.g., HIPAA, CCPA, GDPR) could adversely affect business.
  • Information technology system failures, cyber attacks, or cybersecurity deficiencies could disrupt operations and compromise confidential information.
  • Inability to successfully enforce intellectual property rights could adversely affect commercial value and competitive position.
  • Potential involvement in intellectual property litigation or administrative proceedings that are expensive, time-consuming, and unsuccessful.
  • Dependence on licensed intellectual property rights (e.g., from Stanford University); failure to maintain licenses or acquire necessary rights could harm business.
  • Manufacturing restrictions related to licensed intellectual property rights developed with U.S. government grants (Bayh-Dole Act).
  • Ability to use net operating loss carryforwards and other tax attributes may be limited due to Internal Revenue Code or state tax law provisions.
  • Venture loan and security agreements contain restrictions that limit flexibility in operating the business.
  • Cash deposits with financial institutions exceed insured limits, posing a risk in case of bank failure.
  • Significant costs associated with operating as a public company, including compliance with Sarbanes-Oxley Act Section 404.
  • Future securities issuances could result in significant dilution to stockholders and impair the market price of common stock.
  • Need for additional capital to support business growth, which might not be available on favorable terms or at all, and may dilute existing stockholders.
  • Principal stockholders and management own a significant percentage of stock and can exert significant control.
  • Market price of common stock may be volatile due to various factors, including financial performance, sales of shares, competitor announcements, and economic conditions.
  • If securities or industry analysts cease coverage or issue adverse opinions, stock price and trading volume could decline.
  • Insurance may not cover all potential losses or liabilities that may arise.
  • Shutdowns of the U.S. federal government could materially adversely affect business.

Future Outlook

CeriBell expects to continue incurring substantial losses and increasing operating expenses in the foreseeable future as it scales its business, invests in R&D, expands commercial operations, and manages public company costs. The company plans to further improve the Ceribell System, expand into new indications beyond seizures and delirium (e.g., LVO stroke), and pursue international market expansion. It anticipates applying for LVO stroke marketing authorization within the next three years, though commercialization timing is uncertain.

Management Comments

  • "We are a medical technology company focused on transforming the diagnosis and management of patients with serious neurological conditions."
  • "By making EEG more accessible and enabling continuous monitoring through the power of AI, the Ceribell System enables clinicians to more rapidly and accurately diagnose and manage patients at risk of seizure and delirium in the acute care setting, resulting in improved patient outcomes and hospital and payer economics."
  • "We believe the platform nature of the Ceribell System will enable us to efficiently pursue other serious neurological conditions beyond seizures."
  • "We intend to expand the size of our direct sales organization in the United States to support our efforts to drive further adoption and utilization of the Ceribell System."
  • "Our mission is to establish the Ceribell System as the standard of care for EEG in the acute care setting and help clinicians save patients' lives."
  • "Based on our current operating plan, we believe that the net proceeds from our IPO, together with the expected cash generated from revenue transactions with customers and our existing cash and cash equivalents, will be sufficient to fund our planned operating expenses and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next 12 months."

Industry Context

StockSavvy.ai notes that CeriBell operates in the rapidly evolving medical technology sector, specifically targeting acute neurological care, a segment historically underserved by conventional EEG systems. The company's focus on AI-powered, point-of-care solutions positions it as an innovator against established players like Natus Medical Incorporated and Nihon Kohden Corporation, who primarily offer traditional EEG systems. CeriBell's expansion into delirium and LVO stroke monitoring aligns with broader industry trends emphasizing early diagnosis and continuous monitoring for improved patient outcomes and cost efficiencies in critical care settings. The multiple FDA clearances and Breakthrough Device Designations underscore its leadership in developing novel solutions for significant unmet needs, potentially disrupting the market for traditional neurodiagnostic tools.

Comparison to Industry Standards

  • CeriBell's Ceribell System offers rapid deployment (as little as five minutes) compared to conventional EEG systems which take a median of 239 minutes (nearly 4 hours) for arrival and setup, significantly outperforming the industry standard for speed in acute care settings.
  • The Clarity algorithm's diagnostic accuracy for non-convulsive status epilepticus, with 87% to 100% sensitivity and 93% to 98% specificity, demonstrates strong performance compared to the challenges of empirical diagnosis in critical care where up to 92% of seizures are non-convulsive.
  • Studies cited in the filing indicate that Ceribell System use is associated with a median ICU length of stay approximately four days shorter and a median hospital length of stay decrease of three days compared to conventional EEG, suggesting superior economic benefits for hospitals over traditional methods.
  • Unlike conventional EEG systems that rely heavily on specialized EEG technicians (who are often short-staffed and work limited hours), the Ceribell System can be applied by any non-specialized healthcare professional after approximately one hour of training, addressing a key bottleneck in the industry.
  • CeriBell's delirium monitoring solution is noted as the 'first and only FDA cleared delirium detection and monitoring device,' setting a new benchmark in a field where current standard-of-care tools like CAM-ICU have significant shortcomings (e.g., burdensome administration, binary results, limited to responsive English-speaking patients).

Management Changes

RolePrevious PersonNew PersonEffective DateReason
Chief Financial OfficerNAScott BlumbergDecember 12, 2025Adopted a Rule 10b5-1 trading plan (not a change in role, but a notable management action).
NAJoshua CoppNAMarch 28, 2025Separation Agreement (implies departure from a previous role, though specific role not detailed in this section).

Corporate Governance

Change TypeDescriptionEffective DateImpact Assessment
Policy AdoptionAdopted a Code of Business Conduct and Ethics applicable to all directors, officers, and employees.NAEnhances ethical standards and compliance framework for the company.
Policy AdoptionAdopted insider trading policies and procedures to promote compliance with insider trading laws and Nasdaq listing standards.NAStrengthens controls against illegal insider trading activities.
Oversight DelegationBoard of Directors delegated oversight of cybersecurity risks to the Audit Committee, which receives quarterly reports from management.NAFormalizes and enhances the oversight structure for critical cybersecurity risks.
Plan AdoptionAdopted the Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP) in February 2025, reserving shares for employee purchases.February 2025Provides an additional incentive and benefit for eligible employees, potentially increasing employee retention and alignment with shareholder interests.

Legal Proceedings

  • On July 7, 2025, filed patent infringement complaints against Natus Medical Incorporated and related subsidiaries with the U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) and the U.S. District Court for the District of Delaware.
  • Allegations include infringement on six patents related to the Ceribell EEG headband and electrode design by Natus's BrainWatch product and unfair competition.
  • Requested the USITC to investigate and issue an exclusion order to bar importation of infringing Natus Products into the United States.
  • Requested a permanent injunction and damages in the District Court for the alleged infringement.
  • On August 6, 2025, the USITC instituted an investigation of these claims.
  • On August 12, 2025, the District Court stayed the patent infringement action until the final determination of the USITC investigation.
  • A federal government shutdown may cause delays in the progress of the USITC investigation.

Related Party Transactions

  • Paid Dr. Josef Parvizi, a Director and Co-Founder, $0.2 million for consulting services and related expense reimbursement in both 2025 and 2024.

Stakeholder Impact

  • **Shareholders**: Experience dilution risk from potential future equity issuances and stock price volatility. Benefit from strong revenue growth and market expansion, but face increased net losses and accumulated deficit.
  • **Employees**: Benefit from increased headcount, stock-based compensation, and the adoption of an Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP). Face intense competition for talent and the need to adapt to new technologies.
  • **Customers (Hospitals)**: Benefit from rapid, AI-powered EEG diagnosis and monitoring for seizures and delirium, leading to improved patient outcomes, reduced hospital stays, and potential cost savings. Face potential challenges with NTAP expiration and integration with existing IT systems.
  • **Patients**: Benefit from earlier and more accurate diagnosis and management of serious neurological conditions like seizures, delirium, and potentially LVO stroke, leading to improved clinical outcomes and reduced morbidity/mortality.
  • **Suppliers**: Company relies on third-party contract manufacturers in China and Vietnam, exposing them to supply chain disruptions, trade policy changes, and quality control requirements.
  • **Creditors (Lenders)**: Company has $20.0 million in outstanding term loans with covenants that limit operational flexibility. The loans are secured by all company assets excluding intellectual property.

Next Steps

  • Expand the size of the direct sales organization in the United States to drive further adoption and utilization of the Ceribell System.
  • Continue to drive utilization of the Ceribell System within the existing customer base by educating customers and integrating Ceribell into hospital protocols.
  • Continue to drive awareness of seizures and delirium in the acute care setting among clinicians through marketing and clinical research.
  • Invest in further growing the base of clinical evidence through sponsored and investigator-initiated studies.
  • Continue to improve and innovate the Ceribell System, including further enhancements to the Clarity algorithm.
  • Expand into new indications and clinical use cases beyond seizures and delirium, such as LVO stroke detection and monitoring.
  • Develop second-generation hardware with additional features to support potential future indications.
  • Pursue adjacent and international markets, including additional regulatory clearances in Europe and market access initiatives in attractive international regions.
  • Apply for FDA marketing authorization for the LVO stroke detection and monitoring solution within the next three years.
  • Explore utility of the product in other clinical settings and in establishing biomarkers for non-acute neurological and psychiatric conditions.
  • Continue to monitor and manage compliance with the new FDA Quality Management System Regulation (QMSR) effective February 2, 2026.

Key Dates

DateDescription
August 29, 2014Company incorporated as Brain Stethoscope, Inc.
June 15, 2015Entered into license agreement with Stanford University.
August 11, 2015Company changed its name to CeriBell, Inc.
April 1, 2017Amendment No. 2 to the Stanford License Agreement.
2017Received 510(k) clearance from the FDA for recorder and headband.
2018First commercial sales of the Ceribell System.
May 7, 2018Consulting Agreement with Josef Parvizi, M.D., Ph.D.
January 2018ISO 13485 certified.
2019Received 510(k) clearance from the FDA for an early version of Clarity.
January 10, 2022Entered into corporate supply agreement with Shenzhen Everwin Precision Technology Co., Ltd.
March 8, 2022Amendment No. 3 to the Stanford License Agreement.
2022Initial receipt of Breakthrough Device Designation for delirium monitoring system.
March 7, 2023Amendment No. 1 to the Corporate Supply Agreement with Everwin China.
May 2023Clarity became the first device to receive 510(k) clearance from the FDA for diagnosing electrographic status epilepticus (ESE) in adult patients.
August 2023CMS approved an NTAP for the newest Clarity algorithm, effective October 1, 2023, for three years.
August 2023Recertification audit for ISO 13485.
November 28, 2023Amendment No. 2 to the Corporate Supply Agreement with Everwin China.
February 1, 2024Corporate supply agreement with Ease Care became effective.
February 6, 2024Entered into Venture Loan and Security Agreement (VLSA) and Loan and Security Agreement (LSA) with SVB and Horizon.
May 2024Entered into an operating lease agreement for an additional 11,600 sq ft facility in Sunnyvale, CA.
June 1, 2024Obtained early use of the new Sunnyvale facility.
October 4, 2024Effected a 1-for-2.57 reverse stock split.
October 10, 2024Registration statement for IPO became effective.
October 15, 2024Completed Initial Public Offering (IPO).
February 14, 2025First Amendment to Venture Loan and Security Agreement.
February 2025Adopted the Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP).
March 1, 2025Began providing a 50% match for employee 401(k) contributions.
March 28, 2025Separation Agreement with Joshua Copp.
April 2025Received full FedRAMP High authorization from the U.S. government.
April 2025FDA 510(k) clearance for next-generation Clarity algorithm to detect electrographic seizures in pediatric patients.
June 12, 2025Paid option exercise fee of $250,000 to extend exclusivity of Stanford license until May 2036.
July 7, 2025Filed patent infringement complaints against Natus Medical Incorporated with USITC and U.S. District Court for Delaware.
August 6, 2025USITC instituted an investigation of patent infringement claims against Natus.
August 12, 2025U.S. District Court for Delaware stayed patent infringement action until final determination of USITC investigation.
September 22, 2025Amendment No. 3 to the Corporate Supply Agreement, designating Everwin Vietnam as an agent.
October 1, 2025Changed estimates of useful and economic lives of recorders from three to five years.
October 2025Released the latest generation of Clarity with further enhancements to seizure detection algorithm and user workflows.
October 2025Submitted an NTAP application to CMS for the new delirium monitoring indication.
November 2025FDA 510(k) clearance for next-generation Clarity algorithm to detect electrographic seizures in neonates.
November 2025Successful surveillance audit for ISO 13485.
December 11, 2025Amended corporate office and warehouse leases to extend terms through January 31, 2028.
December 12, 2025CFO Scott Blumberg adopted a Rule 10b5-1 trading plan.
December 2025FDA granted 510(k) clearance for proprietary delirium monitoring solution.
December 31, 2025Fiscal year end.
January 2026Announced FDA Breakthrough Device Designation for Large Vessel Occlusion (LVO) stroke detection and monitoring solution.
February 6, 2026Revolving Facility matured.
February 20, 2026Number of shares of Common Stock outstanding was 37,641,229.
February 24, 2026Date of filing of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
March 1, 2029Maturity date of the Venture Loan and Security Agreement (VLSA).
May 2036Expiration date of the last licensed patent under the Stanford Agreement.

Recommendation

hold

CeriBell demonstrates strong revenue growth and significant innovation with multiple FDA clearances and designations for its AI-powered EEG platform, expanding its addressable market. However, the company continues to incur substantial net losses and has a decreasing cash position, indicating a high-growth, high-investment phase. The ongoing patent litigation and reliance on international supply chains introduce additional risks. While the long-term potential is promising due to its disruptive technology, the current financial performance and operational risks suggest a 'hold' recommendation for seasoned investors, awaiting clearer signs of profitability or sustained cash flow improvement.

Keywords

Medical Technology, EEG, Artificial Intelligence, Neurological Conditions, Seizure Detection, Delirium Monitoring, LVO Stroke, Acute Care, FDA Clearance, Breakthrough Device Designation, Healthcare Innovation, Medical Devices, Hospital Solutions, Patient Outcomes, Financial Performance, Intellectual Property, Nasdaq, CBLL

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