Bloomberg Businessweek ICYMI: Inspire Announces $200 Million Stock Buyback
Aug 12, 2025
Tim Herbert, Founder, Chairman, and CEO of Inspire Medical Systems, discusses the company's recent $200 million stock buyback amid challenges like lowered revenue guidance. He highlights the innovative Inspire 5 system, aimed at treating obstructive sleep apnea, and the importance of training healthcare providers to improve patient access. Herbert provides insights into operational hurdles and reflects on the company's dedication to advancing treatment options beyond traditional CPAP therapy, signaling an exciting future for Inspire.
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Management Uses Buyback To Signal Confidence
- Inspire announced a $200 million share buyback amid a guidance cut, using capital to repurchase stock.
- The repurchase serves as a management signal of confidence despite near-term execution challenges.
Launch Delay Drove Revenue Pullback
- The Inspire 5 launch ran behind schedule and trimmed revenue guidance by about 4% from the midpoint.
- Tim Herbert attributes the slowdown to centers not being ready and slower patient flow.
Implantable Neural Stimulator Replaces CPAP
- Inspire implants a neural stimulator under the skin to stimulate a tongue muscle and keep the airway open during sleep.
- The device offers a mask-free alternative to CPAP for moderate-to-severe obstructive sleep apnea.