Cerus Corp Lifts 2026 Forecast on Strong Blood Product Demand
Biomedical firm posts 14% revenue growth in preliminary 2025 results, beating Q4 estimates and signaling continued momentum for its blood safety system.
Cerus Corporation (NASDAQ: CERS) delivered a bullish outlook for the year ahead, announcing preliminary fourth-quarter and full-year 2025 revenues that topped analyst estimates and forecasting continued growth driven by demand for its blood safety products.
The Concord, California-based biomedical company reported preliminary fourth-quarter product revenue of $57.8 million, a 14% increase from the same period last year. The figure comfortably beat Wall Street consensus estimates, which were pegged closer to $55.1 million. For the full year, Cerus posted preliminary product revenue of $206.1 million, also reflecting a 14% year-over-year rise.
Looking ahead, the company issued full-year 2026 revenue guidance in a range of $224 million to $228 million. The forecast implies a robust 9% to 11% growth trajectory over its 2025 results, signaling management's confidence in the sustained adoption of its flagship INTERCEPT Blood System.
Despite the strong operational update, shares of Cerus were down about 1.4% to $2.06 in afternoon trading, a muted reaction that contrasts sharply with the upbeat financial report. The stock is currently trading near its 52-week high of $2.26.
Cerus specializes in safeguarding the world's blood supply. Its INTERCEPT system is designed to inactivate a broad range of pathogens in donated blood components, reducing the risk of transfusion-transmitted infections for patients. The technology has become a critical tool for blood centers globally, providing a proactive layer of safety.
The company's performance suggests growing demand for its platelet and plasma systems, which are its primary revenue drivers. The consistent double-digit growth points to successful market penetration and an expanding base of customers who rely on the INTERCEPT technology to meet regulatory standards and enhance patient care.
Analysts appear to share the company's optimism, viewing the recent stock price as undervalued. The consensus analyst price target for CERS sits at approximately $4.67, representing a potential upside of more than 120% from its current trading level. According to data from several brokerage firms, the stock carries ratings ranging from 'Hold' to 'Strong Buy,' with a majority recommending it as a 'Strong Buy.'
The positive forecast arrives as the company continues its mission to establish INTERCEPT as the standard of care for blood transfusions. The preliminary results, announced on January 11, 2026, underscore the company's steady execution in a market with significant public health implications.
With a market capitalization of just under $400 million, Cerus remains a relatively small player in the broader healthcare industry, but its specialized focus and leadership in the niche market of pathogen reduction technology give it a distinct competitive edge. The company's ability to consistently grow its revenue base is a key indicator for investors tracking the biotech and medical technology sectors for growth opportunities. Cerus is expected to report its full, audited financial results for the fourth quarter and full-year 2025 in the coming weeks.