In a detailed comparison of two small-cap medical companies, Ekso Bionics (NASDAQ: EKSO) and LENSAR (NASDAQ: LNSR), analysts are evaluating their performance across several key metrics. The analysis considers factors such as institutional ownership, earnings, valuation, profitability, risk, and analyst recommendations, providing insights into which company may be positioned for better long-term growth.
Comparative Analysis of Earnings and Valuation
A side-by-side comparison reveals notable differences in the financial performance and valuation of the two companies. For instance, Ekso Bionics reported gross revenue that reflects its growing footprint in the medical device sector. In contrast, LENSAR has also shown significant revenue figures, particularly through its advanced laser systems for cataract treatment.
Institutional ownership provides further insight into investor confidence. Approximately 6.4% of Ekso Bionics shares are held by institutional investors, while LENSAR enjoys a much higher institutional ownership rate of 40.2%. Additionally, company insiders own 6.0% of Ekso Bionics shares compared to 66.0% for LENSAR. Strong institutional ownership is often interpreted as a sign that major investors believe a company will outperform the market.
Profitability and Risk Assessment
Profitability metrics also highlight contrasting strengths. Both companies are evaluated on their net margins, return on equity, and return on assets, with LENSAR showing competitive figures in these areas. A closer look at their stock volatility reveals that Ekso Bionics carries a beta of 0.82, indicating it is 18% less volatile than the S&P 500. Conversely, LENSAR has a beta of 0.66, making it 34% less volatile than the same index. This suggests that LENSAR may offer a more stable investment, appealing to risk-averse investors.
Analyst ratings further enrich this comparison. According to MarketBeat.com, Ekso Bionics currently holds a consensus target price of $10.50, which suggests a potential upside of 91.96%. Meanwhile, LENSAR’s consensus target price is $15.00, indicating a potential upside of 24.90%. Given Ekso Bionics’ stronger target price and potential upside, analysts generally view it as a more favorable investment at this time.
In summary, Ekso Bionics outperforms LENSAR in nine of the fourteen factors assessed, indicating a stronger position in several key areas.
Company Overviews
Ekso Bionics Holdings, Inc., founded in 2005 and headquartered in San Rafael, California, specializes in the design and manufacture of exoskeleton products. The company operates through two main segments: EksoHealth, which focuses on medical applications, and EksoWorks, aimed at industrial users. Their notable products include the EksoNR, a rehabilitation device for patients recovering from severe neurological injuries, and Ekso Indego, a powered lower-limb orthosis.
On the other hand, LENSAR, Inc. was incorporated in 2004 and is based in Orlando, Florida. This commercial-stage medical device company concentrates on developing a femtosecond laser system for cataract treatment. Their flagship product, the LENSAR Laser System, integrates proprietary technologies to enhance surgical outcomes. The ALLY Adaptive Cataract Treatment System further exemplifies their innovation, consolidating advanced laser capabilities into a single unit for efficient cataract procedures.
The strategic focus and operational strengths of both companies underscore their potential in the evolving medical device landscape. Investors and stakeholders will continue to monitor their progress as they navigate the challenges and opportunities within the industry.
