Norne sine betraktninger etter Ă„ ha lest dagens q1 rapport:
Weak 1Q affected by Omicron; improvements to start in 2Q Following weaker-than-expected figures from Photocure this morning, we are likely to reduce our estimates somewhat, but positive stance stays. Weaker-than-expected 1Q figures affected by Omicron surge Photocureâs revenues in 1Q22 came in at NOK 81.6m, which was the same level as last year (ex Asieris milestone in 1Q21) as the recent Covid-19 Omicron variant surge and resulting staffing shortages significantly impacted access to care and procedure volumes in January and February of this year, with March showing a strong recovery. In the first quarter of 2022, a total of 13 BLC towers were installed in the US driven by rising demand by large urology group practice associations. This was much better than 5 expected by us, having in mind the new Karl Storz equipment is not yet available in the market. New system launch should happen this quarter resulting in accelerating growth in BCL installations. EBITDA for the first quarter was NOK -13.9m and weaker than our estimate of NOK -1.3m, as lower revenues took their toll, while costs came in largely as expected.
Post COVID recovery later this year, while staffing shortages continue The first quarter was heavily affected by Omicron surge and according to PHO, nearly half of hospitals in the US were postponing surgeries. Normalized access and procedure volumes are expected in 2H22. Access in Europe was also limited in 1Q but should return to 100% during this quarter. Staffing shortages are still acute and both key regions (US and Europe) are affected. Nevertheless, the company indicates that 2Q volumes should improve vs 1Q. Positive stance stays with post-pandemic recovery being the key nearterm trigger We might reduce our estimates somewhat following 1Q report. However, our positive long-term stance stays on the stock. We still see Photocure benefiting from post pandemic reopening in the healthcare sector, which should start in 2Q and be more visible in 2H22.