Forge(FRGE) - 2025 Q1 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Forge reported total revenue of $25.3 million for Q1 2025, a 36$16 million, up 85% from the last quarter, with trading volume increasing 132% to $692 million [13][14] - Custodial administration fees totaled$9.3 million, reflecting a 7% decline from the last quarter due to the impact of rate cuts [15] - The net loss for Q1 2025 was $16.2 million, nearly flat compared to the$16 million loss in the previous quarter [16] - Adjusted EBITDA loss improved to $8.9 million from$10.9 million in the prior quarter [16] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The increase in marketplace revenue was driven by improved market dynamics and several large institutional block trades [7][11] - SPV (Special Purpose Vehicle) volume continued to increase, reinforcing the value of the RIA (Registered Investment Advisor) business [12] - Net take rates declined from 2.8% to 2.3% due to the rates achieved on large block trades [14] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Forge Private Market Index decreased by 1.9% in April, indicating some softening in buy-side demand and valuations [21] - Despite mixed signals in the market, the company noted a growing acceptance among private market stakeholders for liquidity options as IPOs are delayed [22] Company Strategy and Development Direction - Forge is focusing on expanding its wealth management capabilities and has announced plans to acquire Acquidity Capital Management to enhance its asset management offerings [9] - The company is building partnerships, such as with Yahoo Finance and ICE, to enhance data distribution and market presence [8][52] - Forge aims to provide innovative products that combine custody and investment opportunities, targeting a broader set of investors [27] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the future, citing a strong deal pipeline and continued momentum in the private market despite macroeconomic volatility [20] - The company remains cautious about the impact of tariffs and the unpredictable economic landscape on business forecasting [12][20] - Management highlighted the importance of private markets in providing liquidity amid an unclear IPO outlook [7][22] Other Important Information - The company completed a 15:1 reverse stock split and initiated a share buyback program, repurchasing approximately 315,000 shares at an average price of $13.15 [18][19] - Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash at the end of the quarter totaled$71.6 million, down from $106.3 million at the end of the previous year [18] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you walk us through the rationale for the equity acquisition? - Management noted that the acquisition aims to accelerate access to passive data-driven funds, which is seen as a strategic opportunity to expand AUM and drive recurring revenue [25][27][28] Question: What are the considerations for setting up an SPV for a specific company? - Management explained that any company mature enough to attract investor interest should have an SPV, with expectations of hundreds of such structures in the coming years [35][36] Question: How do you characterize customer reengagement in Q1? - Management observed broad-based reengagement across institutions and individuals, with AI being a significant driving theme [42][43] Question: What are your thoughts on the regulatory backdrop for retail access to private markets? - Management highlighted ongoing discussions with regulators to balance investor protections while increasing access to private markets, emphasizing the importance of providing market products now [66][70] Question: What are your expectations around cash burn for the rest of the year? - Management indicated that cash burn in 2025 is expected to be less than in previous years, with a target to reach breakeven by 2026 [71][72]