Cochlear Unveils Nexa Implant, Eyes Double-Digit Profit Growth in FY26

Solid Financial Performance Amid Innovation Drive

Cochlear Limited has delivered a solid financial performance for the 2025 fiscal year, with sales revenue reaching $2.4 billion, up 3% in constant currency, and underlying net profit increasing by 1% to $392 million. This steady growth reflects the company’s continued leadership in implantable hearing solutions and its commitment to innovation and long-term value creation.

The company’s strong financial footing is underpinned by a robust research and development program, with $290 million invested in FY25; equivalent to 12% of revenue; highlighting Cochlear’s dedication to advancing hearing technology.

Introducing the Nucleus Nexa System – A Leap Forward

A major highlight of the year was the launch of the Nucleus Nexa System, the world’s first smart cochlear implant featuring upgradeable firmware. This innovation allows recipients to benefit from future enhancements without additional surgery, a significant advancement in patient care and device longevity.

The Nexa implant incorporates an advanced chipset with self-monitoring diagnostics and internal memory to store user settings, enhancing usability and reliability. This platform opens doors to future innovations such as improved music appreciation, hearing in noisy environments, and neural health diagnostics.

Societal and Cognitive Benefits Reinforce Market Potential

Cochlear’s impact extends beyond financial metrics, with over 53,000 people receiving implants in FY25. The company estimates a net societal benefit exceeding $9 billion over the lifetime of these recipients, factoring in improved health outcomes and productivity gains.

Recent studies from South Korea and Australia have strengthened the evidence linking cochlear implants to reduced dementia risk and cognitive improvements in older adults with severe hearing loss. These findings underscore the broader health implications of Cochlear’s technology and support its advocacy for hearing health as a public health priority.

Sustainability and Leadership Renewal

On the sustainability front, Cochlear has made significant strides, reducing Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 71% since FY19 and achieving 99% renewable energy use at manufacturing sites. The company also reported its Scope 3 emissions inventory for the first time, signaling a commitment to comprehensive environmental responsibility.

Leadership changes include the retirement of long-serving director Glen Boreham and the appointment of Richard Freudenstein, whose extensive experience in global media and technology sectors is expected to bring fresh perspectives to the board.

Looking Ahead – Confident Growth Amid Global Challenges

Looking forward, Cochlear projects an 11-17% increase in underlying net profit for FY26, reflecting confidence in expanding market opportunities and ongoing innovation. The company remains vigilant regarding global supply chain risks amid rising trade tensions but is proactively managing these challenges through supplier collaboration and inventory strategies.

With a strong balance sheet, a growing body of clinical evidence supporting its products, and a clear strategic focus, Cochlear is well-positioned to continue delivering value to its stakeholders.