Biggest changeFood and Drug Administration (“FDA”), or any comparable foreign regulatory authority; ● the timing, receipt and terms of any marketing approvals from applicable regulatory authorities; ● our ability to establish new licensing or collaboration arrangements; ● the performance of our future collaborators, if any; ● our ability to establish and maintain arrangements with third-party manufacturers for the commercial supply of products that receive marketing approval, if any; ● development and timely delivery of commercial-grade drug formulations that can be used in our planned clinical trials and for commercialization; ● obtaining, maintaining, defending and enforcing patent claims and other intellectual property rights; ● our ability to hire additional personnel and consultants as our business grows, including additional executive officers and clinical development, regulatory, chemistry, manufacturing and controls (“CMC”), quality and commercial personnel; ● commercializing product candidates, if approved, whether alone or in collaboration with others; ● the costs and timing of establishing or securing sales and marketing capabilities for our product candidates if approved; ● our ability to achieve sufficient market acceptance, coverage and adequate reimbursement from third-party payors and adequate market share and revenue for any approved products; and ● maintaining a continued acceptable safety profile of the product candidates following approval.
Biggest changeThis is due to the numerous risks and uncertainties associated with product development, including the uncertainty of: ● the scope, timing and progress of our ongoing clinical studies and other research and development activities associated with the development of our current and future product candidates; ● the number and scope of preclinical and clinical programs we decide to pursue; ● our ability to maintain our current research and development programs and to establish new programs; ● the timing of and successful patient enrollment in, and the initiation and completion of, clinical trials; ● the successful completion of clinical trials with safety, tolerability and efficacy profiles that are satisfactory to the FDA, or any comparable foreign regulatory authority; ● the timing, receipt and terms of any marketing approvals from applicable regulatory authorities; ● our ability to establish new licensing or collaboration arrangements; ● the performance of our future collaborators, if any; ● our ability to establish and maintain arrangements with third-party manufacturers for the commercial supply of products that receive marketing approval, if any; ● development and timely delivery of commercial-grade drug formulations that can be used in our planned clinical trials and for commercialization; ● obtaining, maintaining, defending and enforcing patent claims and other intellectual property rights; ● our ability to hire additional personnel and consultants as our business grows, including additional executive officers and clinical development, regulatory, chemistry, manufacturing and controls, quality and commercial personnel; ● commercializing product candidates, if approved, whether alone or in collaboration with others; ● the costs and timing of establishing or securing sales and marketing capabilities for our product candidates if approved; 147 Table of Contents ● the imposition of new laws and regulations, including those relating to labor conditions and safety standards, information and data transfer, imports, duties, taxes, and other charges on imports, as well as trade restrictions and restrictions on currency exchange or the transfer of funds, particularly new or increased tariffs imposed on imports, and as a result supply-related costs, from countries where our suppliers operate, as well as tariffs that impact the biopharmaceutical industry generally; ● our ability to achieve sufficient market acceptance, coverage and adequate reimbursement from third-party payors and adequate market share and revenue for any approved products; and ● maintaining a continued acceptable safety profile of the product candidates following approval.
Further, our operating plans may change in the future, and we may need additional funds to meet operational needs and capital requirements associated with such operating plans. We have no products approved for commercial sale and have not generated any product revenues from product sales to date.
Further, our operating plans may change in the future, and we may need additional funds to meet operational needs and capital requirements associated with such operating plans. We have no products approved for commercial sale and have not generated any revenues from product sales to date.
We anticipate that we will continue to incur significant losses for at least the next several years. We expect our research and development, general and administrative expenses will continue to increase.
We anticipate that we will continue to incur significant losses for at least the next several years. We expect our research and development, and general and administrative expenses will continue to increase.
Net Cash Used in Investing Activities Net cash used in investing activities for the year ended December 31, 2024 was $30.6 million and was due to the purchase of $36.4 million of investments, partially offset by $6.0 million in proceeds from the maturities of investments.
Net cash used in investing activities for the year ended December 31, 2024 was $30.6 million and was due to the purchase of $36.4 million of investments, partially offset by $6.0 million in proceeds from the maturities of investments.
Net Cash Provided by Financing Activities Net cash provided by financing activities for the year ended December 31, 2024 was $413.0 million, resulting from $178.4 million in net proceeds received from the issuance and sale of shares of our Series C Preferred Stock, proceeds of $240.6 million from our IPO, net of underwriting discounts and commissions, and $0.3 million of proceeds received from the exercise of stock options, partially offset by a $6.3 million payment of offering costs related to our IPO.
Net cash provided by financing activities for the year ended December 31, 2024 was $413.0 million, resulting from $178.4 million in net proceeds received from the issuance and sale of shares of our Series C Preferred Stock, proceeds of $240.6 million from our IPO, net of underwriting discounts and commissions, and $0.3 million of proceeds received from the exercise of stock options, partially offset by a $6.3 million payment of offering costs related to our IPO.
The financial terms of these agreements are subject to negotiation, vary from contract to contract and may result in uneven payment flows and expense recognition. Payments under some of these contracts depend on factors out of our control, as such as the successful enrollment of patients and the completion of clinical trial milestones.
The financial terms of these agreements are subject to negotiation, vary from contract to contract and may result in uneven payment flows and expense recognition. Payments under some of these contracts depend on factors out of our control such as the successful enrollment of patients and the completion of clinical trial milestones.
Our future funding requirements will depend on, and could increase significantly as a result of, many factors, including: ● the scope, timing, progress results and costs of our ongoing obexelimab clinical studies and other research and development activities associated with the development of our other and future product candidates; ● the costs, timing and outcome of regulatory review of product candidates; ● the costs of future activities, including product sales, medical affairs, marketing, manufacturing and distribution, for any product candidates for which we receive marketing approval; ● the costs of establishing and maintaining arrangements with third-party manufacturers for the commercial supply of products that receive marketing approval, if any; ● the costs and timing of manufacturing for obexelimab and other product candidates, including commercial manufacturing at sufficient scale, if any product candidate is approved, including as a result of inflation, any supply chain issues or component shortages; ● the revenue, if any, received from commercial sale of our products, should any product candidates receive marketing approval; ● the cash requirements of any future acquisitions or discovery of product candidates; ● the cost and timing of attracting, hiring and retaining skilled personnel to support our operations and continued growth; ● the cost of implementing operational, financial and management systems; ● the costs of preparing, filing and prosecuting patent applications, maintaining and enforcing our intellectual property rights and defending intellectual property-related claims; 129 Table of Contents ● our ability to establish and maintain collaborations, strategic partnerships or marketing, distribution, licensing or other strategic arrangements with third parties on favorable terms, if at all; ● our ability to achieve sufficient market acceptance, coverage and adequate reimbursement from third-party payors and adequate market share and revenue for any approved products; ● the timing, receipt and amount of sales of, or milestone payments related to or royalties on, current or future product candidates, if any; and ● the costs associated with operating as a public company, including legal, accounting or other expenses in operating our business.
Our future funding requirements will depend on, and could increase significantly as a result of, many factors, including: ● the scope, timing, progress results and costs of our ongoing clinical studies and other research and development activities associated with the development of our other and future product candidates; ● the costs, timing and outcome of regulatory review of product candidates; ● the costs of future activities, including product sales, medical affairs, marketing, manufacturing and distribution, for any product candidates for which we receive marketing approval; ● the costs of establishing and maintaining arrangements with third-party manufacturers for the commercial supply of products that receive marketing approval, if any; ● the costs and timing of manufacturing for obexelimab, orelabrutinib and other product candidates, including commercial manufacturing at sufficient scale, if any product candidate is approved, including as a result of inflation, any supply chain issues or component shortages; ● the revenue, if any, received from commercial sale of our products, should any product candidates receive marketing approval; ● the cash requirements of any future acquisitions or discovery of product candidates; ● the cost and timing of attracting, hiring and retaining skilled personnel to support our operations and continued growth; ● the cost of implementing operational, financial and management systems; ● the costs of preparing, filing and prosecuting patent applications, maintaining and enforcing our intellectual property rights and defending intellectual property-related claims; ● our ability to establish and maintain collaborations, strategic partnerships or marketing, distribution, licensing or other strategic arrangements with third parties on favorable terms, if at all; 152 Table of Contents ● our ability to achieve sufficient market acceptance, coverage and adequate reimbursement from third-party payors and adequate market share and revenue for any approved products; ● the timing, receipt and amount of sales of, or milestone payments related to or royalties on, current or future product candidates, if any; and ● the costs associated with operating as a public company, including legal, accounting or other expenses in operating our business.
Our primary uses of capital are, and we expect to continue to be, compensation and related expenses, third-party clinical research and development services, clinical costs, legal and other regulatory expenses and general overhead costs. We have based our estimates on assumptions that may prove to be incorrect, and we could use our capital resources sooner than we currently expect.
Our primary uses of capital are, and we expect to continue to be, third-party clinical research and development services, manufacturing costs, compensation and related expenses, legal and other regulatory expenses and general overhead costs. We have based our estimates on assumptions that may prove to be incorrect, and we could use our capital resources sooner than we currently expect.
If we raise additional funds through license, strategic alliances or collaboration arrangements in the future, we may have to relinquish valuable rights to our technologies, future revenue streams or drug candidates or grant licenses on terms that may not be favorable to us.
If we raise additional funds through licenses, strategic alliances or collaboration arrangements in the future, we may have to relinquish valuable rights to our technologies, future revenue streams or drug candidates, or grant licenses on terms that may not be favorable to us.
A change in the outcome of any of these or other variables with respect to the development of obexelimab or any other product candidate could significantly change the costs and timing associated with our operating plans.
A change in the outcome of any of these or other variables with respect to the development of obexelimab, orelabrutinib or any other product candidate could significantly change the costs and timing associated with our operating plans.
On September 16, 2024, we completed our IPO in which we issued and sold an aggregate of 15,220,588 shares of our common stock, including 1,985,294 shares of common stock sold pursuant to the full exercise of the underwriter’s option to purchase additional shares, at a public offering price of $17.00 per share, for aggregate gross proceeds of $258.7 million.
In September 2024, we completed our IPO in which we issued and sold an aggregate of 15,220,588 shares of our common stock, including 1,985,294 shares of common stock sold pursuant to the full exercise of the underwriter’s option to purchase additional shares, at a public offering price of $17.00 per share, for aggregate gross proceeds of $258.7 million.
We may choose to early adopt any new or revised accounting standards whenever such early adoption is permitted for private companies. Therefore, the reported results of operations contained in our financial statements may not be directly comparable to those of other public companies.
We may choose to early adopt any new or revised accounting standards whenever such early adoption is permitted. Therefore, the reported results of operations contained in our financial statements may not be directly comparable to those of other public companies.
Until such time, if ever, as we can generate substantial product revenues, we expect to finance our cash needs through a combination of equity offerings, debt financing and additional funding from license, strategic alliances and collaboration arrangements.
Until such time, if ever, as we can generate substantial product revenues, we expect to finance our cash needs through a combination of equity offerings, debt financing and additional funding from licenses, strategic alliances and collaboration arrangements.
On an ongoing basis, we evaluate our judgments and estimates in light of changes in circumstances, facts and experiences.
On an ongoing basis, we evaluate our judgments, assumptions and estimates in light of changes in circumstances, facts and experiences.
We anticipate that our general and administrative expenses will increase in the next few years as we increase our headcount to support our continued research and development activities of our product candidates. These increases will likely include 125 Table of Contents increased costs related to the hiring of additional personnel and fees to outside consultants, among other expenses.
We anticipate that our general and administrative expenses will increase in the next few years as we increase our headcount to support our continued research and development activities of our product candidates. These increases will likely include increased costs related to the hiring of additional personnel and fees to outside consultants, among other expenses.
Based on existing clinical data generated to date, we believe that targeting B cell lineage via CD19 and FcγRIIb can inhibit B cells and has been shown to be well-tolerated. We are developing obexelimab as a potential I&I franchise for patients in several autoimmune diseases, representing substantial commercial opportunities individually and in the aggregate.
Based on existing clinical data generated to date, we believe that targeting B cell lineage via CD19 and FcγRIIb can inhibit B cells and has been shown to be well-tolerated. 140 Table of Contents We are developing obexelimab as a potential I&I franchise for patients in several autoimmune diseases, representing substantial commercial opportunities individually and in the aggregate.
In accruing service fees, we estimate the time period over which services will be performed and the level of effort to be expended in each period. If the actual timing of the performance of services or the level of effort varies from our estimate, we adjust the accrual 132 Table of Contents accordingly.
In accruing service fees, we estimate the time period over which services will be performed and the level of effort to be expended in each period. If the actual timing of the performance of services or the level of effort varies from our estimate, we adjust the accrual accordingly.
With the evolving understanding of the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases, along with the expansion of promising immunology-based pharmacologic targets, we are building an immunology and inflammation (“I&I”) focused biopharmaceutical company. Our core business strategy combines disciplined product candidate acquisition with strategic deployment of internal expertise and effective use of external resources.
With the evolving understanding of the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases, along with the expansion of promising immunology-based pharmacologic targets, we are building an I&I focused biopharmaceutical company. Our core business strategy combines disciplined product candidate acquisition with strategic deployment of internal expertise and effective use of external resources.
GAAP”), requires us to make judgments, assumptions and estimates that may affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, equity and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements, and the reported amounts of expenses during the reported periods.
The preparation of these consolidated financial statements requires us to make judgments, assumptions and estimates that may affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, equity and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements, and the reported amounts of expenses during the reported periods.
For example, if the FDA or another regulatory authority were to delay our planned start of clinical trials or require us to conduct clinical trials or other testing beyond those that we currently anticipate would be required for the completion of clinical development, or if we experience significant delays in enrollment in any clinical trials following the FDA’s acceptance and clearance of an Investigational New Drug Application (“IND”), we could be required to expend significant additional financial resources and time to complete clinical development than we currently expect.
For example, if the FDA or another regulatory authority were to delay our planned start of clinical trials or require us to conduct clinical trials or other testing beyond those that we currently anticipate would be required for the completion of clinical development, or if we experience significant delays in enrollment in any clinical trials following the FDA’s acceptance and clearance of an IND, we could be required to expend significant additional financial resources and time to complete clinical development than we currently expect.
We expect that our expenses and capital requirements will increase substantially in connection with our ongoing activities, particularly if and as we: ● continue clinical development of obexelimab and our other programs; ● advance our obexelimab program and our other product candidates through preclinical development and clinical trials; ● identify additional product candidates and acquire rights from third parties to those product candidates through licenses or acquisitions and conduct development activities, including preclinical studies and clinical trials; ● make royalty, milestone or other payments under current, and any future, license or collaboration agreements; ● procure the manufacturing of preclinical, clinical and commercial supply of our current or any future product candidates; ● seek marketing regulatory approvals for our current or any future product candidates that successfully complete clinical trials; ● commercialize our current or any future product candidates, if approved; ● take steps toward our goal of being an integrated biopharma company capable of supporting commercial activities, including establishing sales, marketing and distribution infrastructure; ● continue to develop, maintain and defend our intellectual property portfolio, including against third-party interference, infringement and other intellectual property claims, if any; ● seek to attract, hire and retain qualified clinical, scientific, operations and management personnel; ● add and maintain operational, financial and information management systems; ● attempt to address any competing therapies and market developments; ● experience delays in our preclinical studies, clinical trials or regulatory approval for our current or any future product candidates, including with respect to failed studies, inconclusive results, safety issues or other regulatory challenges; ● establish agreements with contract research organizations (“CROs”) and contract manufacturing organizations (“CMOs”), and ● incur additional costs associated with being a public company, including audit, legal, regulatory, and tax-related services associated with maintaining compliance with an exchange listing and the SEC requirements, director and officer insurance premiums and investor relations costs. 121 Table of Contents We will not generate revenue from product sales unless and until we successfully complete clinical development and obtain regulatory approval for a product candidate, and we cannot assure investors that we will ever generate significant revenue or profits.
We expect that our expenses and capital requirements will increase substantially in connection with our ongoing activities, particularly if and as we: ● continue clinical development of obexelimab, orelabrutinib and our other programs; ● advance our obexelimab and orelabrutinib programs and our other product candidates through preclinical development and clinical trials; ● identify additional product candidates and acquire rights from third parties to those product candidates through licenses or acquisitions and conduct development activities, including preclinical studies and clinical trials; ● make royalty, milestone or other payments under current, and any future, license or collaboration agreements; ● procure the manufacturing of preclinical, clinical and commercial supply of our current or any future product candidates; ● seek marketing regulatory approvals for our current or any future product candidates that successfully complete clinical trials; ● commercialize our current or any future product candidates, if approved; ● take steps toward our goal of being an integrated biopharma company capable of supporting commercial activities, including establishing sales, marketing and distribution infrastructure; ● continue to develop, maintain and defend our intellectual property portfolio, including against third-party interference, infringement and other intellectual property claims, if any; ● seek to attract, hire and retain qualified clinical, scientific, operations and management personnel; ● add and maintain operational, financial and information management systems; ● attempt to address any competing therapies and market developments; 143 Table of Contents ● experience delays in our preclinical studies, clinical trials or regulatory approval for our current or any future product candidates, including with respect to failed studies, inconclusive results, safety issues or other regulatory challenges; ● establish agreements with CROs and CMOs; and ● incur additional costs associated with being a public company, including audit, legal, regulatory, and tax-related services associated with maintaining compliance with an exchange listing and SEC requirements, director and officer insurance premiums and investor relations costs.
Research and Development Expenses Research and development expenses account for a significant portion of our operating expenses and consist primarily of external and internal costs incurred in connection with the preclinical and clinical development of obexelimab, ZB002, ZB004, ZB001 and ZB005, and include: Direct Costs: ● external research and development expenses incurred under agreements with CROs and consultants that conduct our clinical studies and other scientific development services; ● costs incurred under agreements with CMOs for manufacturing material for our preclinical studies and clinical trials; ● costs to obtain and maintain licenses to intellectual property, and related future payments should milestones described in those agreements be achieved; and 123 Table of Contents ● costs related to compliance with regulatory requirements.
Research and Development Expenses Research and development expenses account for a significant portion of our operating expenses and consist primarily of external and internal costs incurred in connection with the preclinical and clinical development of our product candidates and include: Direct Costs: ● external research and development expenses incurred under agreements with CROs and consultants that conduct our clinical studies and other scientific development services; ● costs incurred under agreements with CMOs for manufacturing material for our preclinical studies and clinical trials; ● costs to obtain and maintain licenses to intellectual property, and related future payments should milestones described in those agreements be achieved; and ● costs related to compliance with regulatory requirements.
Where we share costs with our collaboration partners, such as in our BMS Agreement, research and development expenses may include cost sharing reimbursements from our partner. Research and development activities are central to our business model.
Where we share costs with our collaboration partners, such as in our BMS Agreement, research and development expenses may include cost sharing reimbursements from our partners. 146 Table of Contents Research and development activities are central to our business model.
We may continue to be a smaller reporting company until the fiscal year following the determination that we no longer meet the requirements necessary to be considered a smaller reporting company.
We may continue to be a smaller reporting company until the fiscal year following the determination that we no longer meet the requirements necessary to be considered a smaller reporting company. 158 Table of Contents
As of December 31, 2024 and 2023, we were unable to estimate the timing or likelihood of achieving these milestones or generating future product sales. For additional information on our license and option agreements, please see Note 8, License and Option Agreements , to these consolidated financial statements.
As of December 31, 2025 and 2024, we were unable to estimate the timing or likelihood of achieving these milestones or generating future product sales. For additional information on our license and option agreements, for additional information, see Note 8, License Agreements to our consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report.
The increase of $12.6 million was primarily attributable to the following: ● a $8.8 million increase in personnel costs, including a $4.9 million increase in stock-based compensation expense, a $3.8 million increase in salary and benefit related expense, primarily due to an increase in headcount, and a $0.1 million increase in recruiting expense, partially offset by a $0.1 million decrease in external contractor expense; ● a $1.7 million increase in professional fees, including legal, audit and tax expenses, primarily attributable to operating as a public company; and ● a $1.6 million increase in other expenses, including insurance and other variable costs related to operating as a public company.
The increase of $23.6 million was primarily attributable to the following: ● a $17.1 million increase in personnel costs, including a $10.8 million increase in stock-based compensation expense, a $5.3 million increase in salary and benefit related expense, primarily due to an increase in headcount, a $0.8 million increase in recruiting expense, and a $0.2 million increase in external contractor expense and other personnel costs; ● a $4.2 million increase in professional fees, including legal, audit and tax expenses, primarily attributable to operating as a public company and business development efforts; and ● a $2.3 million increase in facilities and other expenses, including insurance and other variable costs related to operating as a public company.
Actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions. The effects of material revisions in estimates, if any, will be reflected in the consolidated financial statements prospectively from the date of change in estimates. Other significant accounting policies are outlined in Note 2, Summary of Significant Accounting Policies , to our consolidated financial statements.
Actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions. The effects of material revisions in estimates, if any, will be reflected in the consolidated financial statements prospectively from the date of change in estimates.
In addition, we hold the development and commercialization rights to one regional program, ZB001, and related programs, which were recently exclusively sublicensed to a partner in greater China.
We retain global rights for both assets. In addition, we hold the development and commercialization rights to one regional program, ZB001, and related programs, which were exclusively sublicensed to a partner in China, as discussed below.
Since inception, our operations have focused on research and development activities with respect to our product candidates as described above, as well as raising capital, business planning, organizing and staffing our company, establishing our intellectual property portfolio, establishing arrangements with third parties for the manufacture of our product candidates 120 Table of Contents and related raw materials, and providing general and administrative support for these operations.
In addition, we may be obligated to pay royalties on net sales at rates ranging from high-single digits to high-teens for orelabrutinib, and mid-single digits to mid-teens for the preclinical compounds. 142 Table of Contents Since inception, our operations have focused on research and development activities with respect to our product candidates as described above, as well as raising capital, business planning, organizing and staffing our company, establishing our intellectual property portfolio, establishing arrangements with third parties for the manufacture of our product candidates and related raw materials, and providing general and administrative support for these operations.
Critical Accounting Policies and Significant Judgments and Estimates The preparation of our consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the U.S. (“U.S.
Critical Accounting Policies and Significant Judgments and Estimates Management’s discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations is based on our consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”).
We retain exclusive rights to commercialize the licensed products containing obexelimab outside of the BMS Territory. The revenue recognized to date pursuant to this arrangement relates to the license of obexelimab and the related technology transfer, which was recognized upon delivery of the license.
The revenue recognized to date pursuant to this arrangement relates to the license of obexelimab and the related technology transfer, which was recognized upon delivery of the license.
Acquired In-Process Research and Development Expenses We expense acquisition costs for assets purchased for use in research and development activities that have no alternative future use as in-process research and development (“IPR&D”) expense as of the acquisition date.
We will also incur pre-commercialization expenses to facilitate commercial readiness, as we prepare for a potential product candidate approval. Acquired In-Process Research and Development Expenses We expense acquisition costs for assets purchased for use in research and development activities that have no alternative future use as in-process research and development (“IPR&D”) expenses as of the acquisition date.
The increase of $79.1 million was primarily attributable to the following: ● a $69.1 million increase in costs related to the development of obexelimab, our lead product candidate, driven by a $36.6 million increase in manufacturing costs for clinical trial materials and also a $32.0 million increase clinical trial costs; ● a $4.1 million decrease in costs related to our other programs, including a $2.3 million decrease related to ZB002 and a $1.8 million decrease related to ZB004; and ● a $13.9 million increase in personnel costs, including a $9.5 million increase in salary and benefit related expense, primarily due to an increase in headcount, a $2.5 million increase in stock-based compensation expense, and a $1.9 million increase in external contractor expense and other personnel costs.
The increase of $29.0 million was primarily attributable to the following: ● a $10.0 million increase in costs related to the development of obexelimab, our lead product candidate, driven by a $13.1 million increase in clinical trial, development and regulatory costs, partially offset by a $3.1 million decrease in manufacturing costs for clinical trial materials; ● a $7.2 million increase in costs related to the development of orelabrutinib, a recently acquired product candidate, primarily driven by clinical trial and regulatory costs; ● a $6.6 million decrease in costs related to our partnered regional programs, including a $5.1 million decrease related to ZB005 and a $1.5 million decrease related to ZB001, as a result of transitioning these programs to Tenacia and Zai, respectively; and ● a $15.7 million increase in personnel costs, including a $10.3 million increase in salary and benefit related expense, primarily due to an increase in headcount, a $4.8 million increase in stock-based compensation expense, and a $0.6 million increase in external contractor expense and other personnel costs.
Although we do not expect our estimates to be materially different from amounts actually incurred, if our estimates of the status and timing of services performed differ from the actual status and timing of services performed, we may report amounts that are too high or too low in any particular period.
Although we do not expect our estimates to be materially different from amounts actually incurred, if our estimates of the status and timing of services performed differ from the actual status and timing of services performed, we may report amounts that are too high or too low in any particular period. 157 Table of Contents Royalty Obligation We have entered into a royalty financing arrangement, which has been recognized as debt on our consolidated balance sheet.
Our ability to generate product revenue sufficient to achieve profitability will depend heavily on the successful development and eventual commercialization of one or more of our product candidates. Our net losses for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023 were $157.0 million and $37.1 million, respectively. As of December 31, 2024, we had an accumulated deficit of $387.4 million.
We have incurred significant operating losses and negative cash flows since inception. Our ability to generate product revenue sufficient to achieve profitability will depend heavily on the successful development and eventual commercialization of one or more of our product candidates. Our net losses for the years ended December 31, 2025 and 2024 were $377.7 million and $157.0 million, respectively.
For additional information on our lease obligations, please see Note 6, Leases , to these consolidated financial statements. 131 Table of Contents License and Option Agreements We have entered into license agreements under which we may be obligated to make milestone and royalty payments, which are contingent upon future events, such as achieving certain development, regulatory, and commercial milestones or generating product sales.
License Agreements We have entered into license agreements under which we may be obligated to make milestone and royalty payments, which are contingent upon future events, such as achieving certain development, regulatory, and commercial milestones or generating product sales.
Through December 31, 2024, we have financed our operations primarily with the proceeds from the issuance of Preferred Stock and convertible notes, payments received from our license and collaboration agreement and from the sale of common stock in our IPO completed in September 2024. We have incurred significant operating losses and negative cash flows since inception.
Through December 31, 2025, we have financed our operations primarily with the proceeds from the issuance of convertible preferred stock, convertible notes, payments received under our license and collaboration agreements, and from the sale of common stock in our IPO completed in September 2024 as well as other public and private equity offerings.
Accrued Research and Development Expenses As part of the process of preparing our consolidated financial statements, we are required to estimate our accrued research and development expenses.
Our assumptions, judgments and estimates relative to our critical accounting estimates have not differed materially from actual results. Accrued Research and Development Expenses As part of the process of preparing our consolidated financial statements, we are required to estimate our accrued research and development expenses.
These costs may also be negatively impacted due to supply chain constraints, global geopolitical tensions, worsening macroeconomic conditions and employee availability and wage increases, which may result in additional stress on our working capital. We import from China drug product and other components for use in our clinical studies, and such products are subject to tariffs.
Our operating and labor costs and research and development costs may also be negatively impacted due to supply chain constraints, global geopolitical tensions, worsening macroeconomic conditions and employee availability and wage increases, which may result in additional stress on our working capital.
In addition, we are eligible to receive up to $86.0 million upon the achievement of certain future regulatory and commercial milestones.
As partial consideration for the Tenacia Agreement, we received a non-creditable, non-refundable upfront fee of $5.0 million from Tenacia. In addition, we are eligible to receive up to $86.0 million upon the achievement of certain future regulatory and commercial milestones.
See section titled “Liquidity and Capital Resources.” Significant Risks and Uncertainties The current inflationary environment may materially affect our business and operating results by increasing the costs of our clinical trial materials and supplies, driving the U.S. Federal Reserve system to increase interest rates, which in turn increase our overhead costs.
See section titled “Liquidity and Capital Resources.” 144 Table of Contents Significant Risks and Uncertainties The current geopolitical, trade, regulatory and economic environment, including, but not limited to imposition of new tariffs or increases in tariff rates and other trade measures, may materially affect our business and operating results by increasing the costs of our clinical trial materials and supplies, which in turn increase our overhead costs.
The first three indications we are pursuing include IgG4-RD through an ongoing registration-directed Phase 3 trial, RMS and SLE through ongoing Phase 2, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trials, each of which are currently enrolling.
The first three indications we are pursuing include IgG4-RD through a registration-directed Phase 3 trial, which reported topline data in January 2026, RMS through an ongoing Phase 2, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial which reported topline data in October 2025 and SLE through an ongoing Phase 2, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial, for which we expect to report topline results, including biomarker data, in the fourth quarter 2026.
Additionally, we are subject to other challenges and risk specific to our business and our ability to execute on our strategy, as well as risks and uncertainties common to companies in the clinical stage biopharmaceutical industry. 122 Table of Contents Components of Our Results of Operations Revenue To date, we have no product candidates approved for commercial sale in any country, and we have not generated any revenues from the sale of products.
Additionally, we are subject to other challenges and risk specific to our business and our ability to execute on our strategy, as well as risks and uncertainties common to companies in the clinical stage biopharmaceutical industry.
Research and Development Expenses The following table summarizes our research and development expenses for each of the periods presented (in thousands): Years Ended December 31, Increase (Decrease) 2024 2023 $ Direct research and development expenses by program: Obexelimab $ 94,563 $ 25,446 $ 69,117 Other programs (ZB002 & ZB004) 2,115 6,242 (4,127) Partnered regional programs (ZB001 & ZB005) 6,737 6,738 (1) Unallocated research and development expenses: Personnel expenses (including stock-based compensation) 34,364 20,458 13,906 Other expenses 1,360 1,149 211 Total research and development expenses $ 139,139 $ 60,033 $ 79,106 127 Table of Contents Research and development expenses were $139.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2024, compared to $60.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2023.
For the year ended December 31, 2024, we recognized revenue of $5.0 million, related to the upfront payment under the Tenacia Agreement. 149 Table of Contents Research and Development Expenses The following table summarizes our research and development expenses for each of the periods presented (in thousands): Years Ended December 31, 2025 2024 Increase (Decrease) Direct research and development expenses by program: Obexelimab $ 104,605 $ 94,563 $ 10,042 Orelabrutinib 7,208 — 7,208 Other programs (ZB002, ZB004, ZB021 & ZB022) 3,677 2,115 1,562 Partnered regional programs (ZB001 & ZB005) 159 6,737 (6,578) Unallocated research and development expenses: Personnel related expenses (including stock-based compensation) 50,089 34,364 15,725 Other expenses 2,325 1,360 965 Total research and development expenses $ 168,063 $ 139,139 $ 28,924 Research and development expenses were $168.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2025, compared to $139.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2024.
General and Administrative Expense The following table summarizes our general and administrative expenses for each of the periods presented (in thousands): Years Ended December 31, Increase 2024 2023 $ Personnel related expenses (including stock-based compensation) $ 18,613 $ 9,859 $ 8,754 Legal and professional fees 6,318 4,626 1,692 Facilities and supplies 2,375 1,825 550 Other expenses 2,443 804 1,639 Total general and administrative expenses $ 29,749 $ 17,114 $ 12,635 General and administrative expenses were $29.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2024, compared to $17.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2023.
General and Administrative Expenses The following table summarizes our general and administrative expenses for each of the periods presented (in thousands): Years Ended December 31, 2025 2024 Increase (Decrease) Personnel related expenses (including stock-based compensation) $ 36,556 $ 19,421 $ 17,135 Legal and professional fees 10,474 6,318 4,156 Facilities 3,282 2,315 967 Other expenses 3,010 1,695 1,315 Total general and administrative expenses $ 53,322 $ 29,749 $ 23,573 150 Table of Contents General and administrative expenses were $53.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2025, compared to $29.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2024.
We expect to continue to incur significant and increasing losses for the foreseeable future.
As of December 31, 2025, we had an accumulated deficit of $765.1 million. We expect to continue to incur significant and increasing losses for the foreseeable future.
Rising interest rates could make it more difficult to obtain traditional financing on acceptable terms, if at all. Additionally, the ongoing recession risk together with the foregoing, could result in further economic uncertainty and volatility in the capital markets in the near term and, as a result could negatively affect our operations.
Additionally, the ongoing recession risk together with the foregoing, could result in further economic uncertainty and volatility in the capital markets in the near term and, as a result could negatively affect our operations. Furthermore, such economic conditions have produced downward pressure on share prices.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements A description of recently issued accounting pronouncements that may potentially impact our financial position and results of operations is disclosed in Note 2, Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, in our consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report.
Although we do not expect our estimates to be materially different from amounts currently assumed, they are based on long-term projection of cash flows, which are inherently uncertain and may change, and the impact could be material in future periods. Recent Accounting Pronouncements A description of recently issued accounting pronouncements that may potentially impact our financial position and results of operations is disclosed in Note 2, Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, in our consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report.
Net cash used in operating activities for the year ended December 31, 2023 was $30.5 million, and was primarily due to our net loss of $37.1 million, adjusted for non-cash items including acquired in-process research and development expense related to a milestone payment of $10.0 million, stock-based compensation of $3.5 million and non-cash operating lease of $0.7 million, offset by a decrease in assets and liabilities of $8.0 million.
Net changes in our working capital during the year resulted in a $1.0 million cash inflow. 155 Table of Contents Net cash used in operating activities for the year ended December 31, 2024 was $119.7 million, and was primarily due to our net loss of $157.0 million adjusted for non-cash charges principally related to stock-based compensation.
On October 21, 2024, we entered into the Novation Agreement with Tenacia, under which we transferred our rights and obligations under our agreements with Dianthus to Tenacia for ZB005. As partial consideration for the Tenacia Agreement, we received a non-creditable, non-refundable upfront fee of $5.0 million from Tenacia.
We received $234.3 million in net proceeds after deducting underwriting discounts, commissions and other offering costs. In October 2024, we entered into the Novation Agreement with Tenacia, under which we transferred our rights and obligations under our agreements with Dianthus to Tenacia for ZB005.
Payments due upon cancellation consist of payments for services provided or expenses incurred, including non-cancelable obligations of our service provided up to one year after the date of cancellation. As of December 31, 2024, our total clinical manufacturing contract payment obligations are $15.3 million of which the full obligation is payable within 12 months.
As of December 31, 2025, our total clinical manufacturing contract payment obligations are $17.7 million of which the full obligation is payable within 12 months.
Beyond our lead product candidate, obexelimab, we have two other programs for the potential treatment of other I&I indications that we may continue to advance and ultimately commercialize with partners. These consist of ZB002 and ZB004. We retain global rights for both assets.
Subject to the results of IND-enabling studies, we expect to submit an IND application for ZB022, and if cleared, initiate a Phase 1 clinical study in 2026. In addition, we have two other programs for the potential treatment of other I&I indications that we may continue to advance and ultimately commercialize with partners. These consist of ZB002 and ZB004.
For a more detailed description of this agreement, see Note 7, License and Collaboration Revenue , to our consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report. Operating Expenses Our operating expenses consist of (i) research and development expenses, (ii) general and administrative expenses and (iii) acquired in-process research and development expenses.
Operating Expenses Our operating expenses consist of (i) research and development expenses, (ii) general and administrative expenses and (iii) acquired in-process research and development expenses.
We have listed below our critical accounting estimates that we believe to have the greatest potential impact on our consolidated financial statements. Our assumptions, judgements and estimates relative to our critical accounting estimates have not differed materially from actual results.
Other significant accounting policies are outlined in Note 2, Summary of Significant Accounting Policies , to our consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report. We have listed below our critical accounting estimates that we believe to have the greatest potential impact on our consolidated financial statements.
Our revenue has been derived from collaboration arrangements and license fees. License and Collaboration Revenue License and collaboration revenue is generated from our Bristol-Myers Squibb (“BMS”) Agreement and our Tenacia Agreement. Pursuant to the BMS Agreement, we sublicensed the rights to develop and commercialize obexelimab in Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Singapore, Hong Kong and Australia (the “BMS Territory”).
License and Collaboration Revenue License and collaboration revenue is generated from our BMS Agreement, our Tenacia Agreement and our Zai License Agreement. Pursuant to the BMS Agreement, we sublicensed the rights to develop and commercialize obexelimab in the BMS Territory. We retain exclusive rights to commercialize the licensed products containing obexelimab outside of the BMS Territory.
If we are unable to raise funds through equity or debt financings when needed, we may be required to delay, limit, reduce, or terminate our product development or future commercialization efforts or grant rights to develop and market drug candidates that we would otherwise prefer to develop and market ourselves. 130 Table of Contents Cash Flows The following table provides information regarding our cash flows for each of the periods presented (in thousands): Years Ended December 31, 2024 2023 Net cash used in operating activities $ (119,674) $ (30,529) Net cash used in investing activities (30,552) (17) Net cash provided by financing activities 412,958 20,116 Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and restricted cash 157 78 Net increase (decrease) in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash $ 262,889 $ (10,352) Net Cash Used in Operating Activities Net cash used in operating activities for the year ended December 31, 2024 was $119.7 million, and was primarily due to our net loss of $157.0 million adjusted for non-cash items including stock-based compensation of $10.8 million, an investment accretion of $0.6 million and non-cash operating lease of $0.7 million, and an increase in assets and liabilities of $25.3 million.
Cash Flows The following table provides information regarding our cash flows for each of the periods presented (in thousands): Years Ended December 31, 2025 2024 Net cash used in operating activities $ (172,333) $ (119,674) Net cash used in investing activities (251,886) (30,552) Net cash provided by financing activities 215,280 412,958 Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and restricted cash (252) 157 Net (decrease) increase in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash $ (209,191) $ 262,889 Net Cash Used in Operating Activities Net cash used in operating activities for the year ended December 31, 2025 was $172.3 million, and was primarily due to our net loss of $377.7 million, which included non-cash charges principally related to the InnoCare license agreement, stock-based compensation and interest charges on our agreement with Royalty Pharma.
Income Taxes Since our inception, we have not recorded income tax benefits for any of our deferred tax assets, including the net operating losses (“NOLs”) incurred or the research and development tax credits generated in each year, as we have concluded that it is more likely than not that these deferred tax assets will not be realized. 126 Table of Contents Results of Operations Comparison of the Years Ended December 31, 2024 and 2023 The following table summarizes our results of operations for each of the periods presented (in thousands): Years Ended December 31, Increase (Decrease) 2024 2023 $ Revenue: License and collaboration revenue $ 5,000 $ 50,000 $ (45,000) Total revenue 5,000 50,000 (45,000) Operating expenses: Research and development $ 139,139 $ 60,033 $ 79,106 General and administrative 29,749 17,114 12,635 Acquired in-process research and development — 10,000 (10,000) Total operating expenses 168,888 87,147 81,741 Loss from operations (163,888) (37,147) (126,741) Other income, net: Fair value adjustments to convertible notes (846) (300) (546) Other income (expense), net 8,175 624 7,551 Total other income (expense), net 7,329 324 7,005 Loss before income taxes (156,559) (36,823) (119,736) Income tax provision (429) (301) (128) Net loss $ (156,988) $ (37,124) $ (119,864) Revenue For the year ended December 31, 2024, we recognized revenue of $5.0 million, related to the upfront payment under the Tenacia Agreement.
Results of Operations Comparison of the Years Ended December 31, 2025 and 2024 The following table summarizes our results of operations for each of the periods presented (in thousands): Years Ended December 31, 2025 2024 Increase (Decrease) Revenue: License and collaboration revenue $ 10,000 $ 5,000 $ 5,000 Total revenue 10,000 5,000 5,000 Operating expenses: Research and development $ 168,063 $ 139,139 $ 28,924 General and administrative 53,322 29,749 23,573 Acquired in-process research and development 171,672 — 171,672 Total operating expenses 393,057 168,888 224,169 Loss from operations (383,057) (163,888) (219,169) Other income (expense), net: Fair value adjustments to convertible notes — (846) 846 Interest expense on royalty obligation (7,327) — (7,327) Interest income 12,151 7,973 4,178 Other income, net 417 202 215 Total other income (expense), net 5,241 7,329 (2,088) Loss before income taxes (377,816) (156,559) (221,257) Income tax (benefit) provision (79) 429 (508) Net loss $ (377,737) $ (156,988) $ (220,749) Revenue For the year ended December 31, 2025, we recognized revenue of $10.0 million, related to the one-time non-refundable upfront cash payment under the Zai License Agreement that was recognized upon delivery of the license and related technology transfer.
We have not yet commercialized any product candidates, and we do not expect to generate revenue from sales of any product candidates or from other sources for several years, if at all. As of December 31, 2024, we had $350.8 million in cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments and we had an accumulated deficit of $387.4 million.
Liquidity and Capital Resources Overview We have incurred significant operating losses since inception. We have not yet commercialized any product candidates, and we do not expect to generate revenue from sales of any product candidates or from other sources until 2027 at the earliest, if at all.
Net cash provided by financing activities for the year ended December 31, 2023 was $20.1 million, resulting from $20.0 million in proceeds received from the sale of the BMS Note and $0.1 million in proceeds received from the exercise of stock options.
Net Cash Provided by Financing Activities Net cash provided by financing activities for the year ended December 31, 2025 was $215.3 million, resulting from $75.0 million in gross proceeds received in connection with royalty obligation, proceeds of $120.0 million and $28.6 million received from the sale and issuance of common stock under the PIPE and ATM offerings, net of commissions, respectively, and $4.4 million of proceeds received for the issuance of common stock from the exercise of stock options and the employee stock purchase plan, partially offset by $12.7 million of payments related to placement agent fees and other offering costs related to the PIPE and ATM offerings.
Acquired In-Process Research and Development Expenses There was no acquired IPR&D expense recorded for the year ended December 31, 2024. Acquired IPR&D for the year ended December 31, 2023 was comprised of a $10.0 million development milestone expense related to obexelimab.
Acquired In-Process Research and Development Expenses For the year ended December 31, 2025, acquired IPR&D expenses were $171.7 million, which included $35.0 million, related to the upfront cash payment for the exclusive rights to develop and manufacture product candidates under the InnoCare License Agreement.
Purchase and Other Obligations We enter into contracts in the normal course of business with CROs, CMOs, and other third-party vendors for clinical trials and testing and manufacturing services. These contracts do not contain minimum purchase commitments and are cancellable by us upon written notice.
These contracts do not contain minimum purchase commitments and are cancellable by us upon written notice. Payments due upon cancellation consist of payments for services provided or expenses incurred, including non-cancelable obligations of our service provided up to one year after the date of cancellation.