Ouster Management
Management criteria checks 3/4
Ouster's CEO is Charles Pacala, appointed in Jun 2015, has a tenure of 10.92 years. total yearly compensation is $3.36M, comprised of 11.9% salary and 88.1% bonuses, including company stock and options. directly owns 1.29% of the company’s shares, worth $28.70M. The average tenure of the management team and the board of directors is 3.9 years and 4.5 years respectively.
Key information
Charles Pacala
Chief executive officer
US$3.4m
Total compensation
| CEO salary percentage | 11.89% |
| CEO tenure | 10.9yrs |
| CEO ownership | 1.3% |
| Management average tenure | 3.9yrs |
| Board average tenure | 4.5yrs |
Recent management updates
Recent updates
Narrative Update • May 15
OUST: Physical AI Execution And Discount Rate Shifts Will Shape Future Upside
Analysts raised their 12 month price target on Ouster by $2. This reflects updated views on discount rates, revenue growth, profit margins, and future P/E assumptions.
New Narrative • May 13
OUST: The Digital Lidar Standard and the Spatial Automation Inflection Point via the Rev8 Native Color Launch and NVIDIA Jetson Integration
Ouster, Inc. (OUST), a leading pioneer in high-resolution digital lidar sensors for autonomous vehicles, industrial robotics, smart infrastructure, and mapping, is navigating a powerful commercial breakout.Seeking Alpha • May 12
Ouster: Ride Robotics Wave
Summary Ouster, Inc. delivered a 49% YoY revenue jump in Q1'26, driven by record LiDAR sensor shipments and Stereolabs integration. Despite strong results and the launch of the Rev8 native color LiDAR sensor, OUST shares remain flat, trading at a modest $1.8 billion valuation. Q2 guidance appears conservative, but OUST has a track record of beating estimates and targets profitability within a year with 35–40% gross margins. With Physical AI and robotics catalysts ahead, the stock is cheap trading at 5x EV/S targets and view any stock weakness as a buying opportunity. Read the full article on Seeking Alpha
Narrative Update • May 01
OUST: Expanded Share Capacity And Traffic Contracts Will Support 2026 Bullish Thesis
Analysts have kept their average price target for Ouster steady at about $39.67, reflecting largely unchanged assumptions on fair value, growth, margins, and future P/E, while fine tuning discount rate and profitability inputs. What's in the News Plans for the June 17, 2026 annual meeting include a proposal to amend the Certificate of Incorporation to increase authorized common shares from 100,000,000 to 200,000,000.Narrative Update • Apr 16
OUST: Defense-Certified Sensors And Physical AI Pipeline Will Support 2026 Top Pick Thesis
Analysts now see Ouster's fair value per share at about $39.67, up slightly from $39.50. This reflects updated assumptions on discount rate, revenue growth, profit margins, and a higher future P/E estimate.Narrative Update • Apr 02
OUST: Physical AI Focus And Q1 2026 Revenue Outlook Will Support Separation
Analysts have kept their $33 price target for Ouster unchanged, citing its selection as a 2026 Top Pick and their view that a strong balance sheet and focus on industrial, smart infrastructure and robotics markets support the company separating from a once larger group of competitors. Analyst Commentary Recent research highlights Ouster as a 2026 Top Pick heading into a major industry event in Las Vegas.Narrative Update • Mar 19
OUST: Physical AI Focus And Balance Sheet Strength Will Support 2026 Separation
Analysts have adjusted their price target on Ouster to $38, reflecting expectations that the company can further differentiate itself from lidar peers as it focuses on industrial, smart infrastructure and robotics markets and benefits from what they view as a solid balance sheet. Analyst Commentary Analysts highlighting Ouster as a top pick for 2026 point to what they view as a clearer competitive position versus other lidar names, supported by a balance sheet they see as capable of ongoing investment.Narrative Update • Mar 04
OUST: 2026 Top Pick And Physical AI Focus Will Drive Separation
Narrative Update on Ouster Analysts have maintained their $33.00 price target for Ouster, pointing to its selection as a 2026 top pick and highlighting expectations that the company continues to distinguish itself financially and operationally by focusing early on industrial, smart infrastructure and robotics or Physical AI markets. Analyst Commentary Recent commentary around Ouster centers on its inclusion as a 2026 top pick heading into the CES show in Las Vegas.Narrative Update • Feb 18
OUST: 2026 Top Pick Status And Physical AI Focus Will Support Upside
Narrative Update on Ouster The analyst price target for Ouster has moved to $38, with analysts pointing to the company’s stronger financial and operational position, supported by its balance sheet and focus on industrial, smart infrastructure and robotics or Physical AI markets. Analyst Commentary Recent commentary highlights a split view on Ouster.Analysis Article • Feb 09
We Think Ouster (NASDAQ:OUST) Can Easily Afford To Drive Business Growth
Just because a business does not make any money, does not mean that the stock will go down. For example, biotech and...Narrative Update • Feb 04
OUST: Defense Certification And 2026 Top Pick Status Will Support Upside
Analysts have lifted their price target on Ouster to $33, citing its selection as a 2026 top pick and the perceived moat created by recent Department of Defense certification, along with growing traction in industrial, smart infrastructure, and robotics markets. Analyst Commentary Recent research highlights a split view around Ouster, even as some firms spotlight the stock with higher price targets and ratings.Narrative Update • Jan 21
OUST: Defense Certification Moat Will Support 2026 Top Pick Thesis
Analysts have lifted their price expectations for Ouster into the mid to high US$30s, citing its selection as a 2026 top pick, a higher US$33 target from Cantor Fitzgerald, as well as growing confidence in its DOD certified LiDAR "moat" and focus on industrial, smart infrastructure and robotics markets. Analyst Commentary Bullish Takeaways Bullish analysts highlight Ouster's selection as a 2026 top pick as a sign of confidence in its ability to stand out financially and operationally from a crowded LiDAR group.Analysis Article • Jan 15
Ouster, Inc. (NASDAQ:OUST) Stocks Shoot Up 26% But Its P/S Still Looks Reasonable
Ouster, Inc. ( NASDAQ:OUST ) shareholders are no doubt pleased to see that the share price has bounced 26% in the last...Narrative Update • Jan 06
OUST: Defense Certification And Overweight Rating Will Support Future Moat Expansion
Analysts have lifted their price target for Ouster to $33 from $30, citing the recent upgrade to Overweight and the view that the company's Department of Defense certification for its OS1 LiDAR sensor creates a meaningful competitive moat. Analyst Commentary Bullish Takeaways Bullish analysts point to the move to Overweight and the higher US$33 price target as a signal that they see the current valuation as not fully reflecting the company's recent execution.Narrative Update • Dec 19
OUST: Defense Certification Will Support Durable Competitive Moat And Upside Potential
Analysts have raised their price target on Ouster to $33 from $30, citing the company's Q3 revenue beat and the view that recent Department of Defense certification creates a durable competitive moat. Analyst Commentary While the latest rating change reflects increased confidence in Ouster's long term positioning, some bearish analysts remain cautious on the sustainability of recent momentum and the implications for valuation.Narrative Update • Dec 05
OUST: Defense Certification Will Drive Moat Expansion And Support Upside Potential
Analysts have nudged their price target on Ouster modestly higher to approximately $39.50 per share, citing accelerating revenue growth, a slightly higher discount rate, and the strengthening competitive moat from recent Department of Defense certification and an upgraded Overweight rating as key supports for the updated outlook. Analyst Commentary Analyst commentary around Ouster has turned more constructive following the recent Department of Defense certification, with upside revisions to ratings and price targets reflecting increased confidence in the company’s strategic positioning and growth trajectory.Narrative Update • Nov 21
OUST: Defense Certification Will Create a Durable Moat for Future Upside
Analysts have raised Ouster's price target slightly to $39.50 from $39.00, citing the company's strengthened competitive position following a key Department of Defense certification and record Q3 revenue performance. Analyst Commentary Analysts have recently updated their outlook on Ouster, reflecting both the company's strong execution and areas of caution that could impact future performance and valuation.Narrative Update • Nov 07
OUST: Defense Certification Will Drive Wider Adoption Across Key Markets
Analysts have raised their price target for Ouster from $35 to $39, citing recent Department of Defense certification and robust revenue growth as key drivers behind the more optimistic valuation. Analyst Commentary Recent upgrades and target price increases reflect analysts' shifting perspectives on Ouster's outlook as the company demonstrates both operational momentum and opportunities for further market penetration.Analysis Article • Oct 16
Ouster, Inc. (NASDAQ:OUST) Stocks Shoot Up 27% But Its P/S Still Looks Reasonable
The Ouster, Inc. ( NASDAQ:OUST ) share price has done very well over the last month, posting an excellent gain of 27...Narrative Update • Aug 15
Lidar And Physical AI Will Transform Industrial Automation Worldwide
With both Net Profit Margin and Discount Rate showing only marginal movement, the fair value estimate for Ouster remains effectively unchanged at $35.00. What's in the News Ouster is expanding its BlueCity traffic management solution in Utah, supported by a five-year contract with UDOT, to over a hundred intersections across multiple cities.Analysis Article • Jul 17
Is There An Opportunity With Ouster, Inc.'s (NASDAQ:OUST) 46% Undervaluation?
Key Insights Ouster's estimated fair value is US$54.01 based on 2 Stage Free Cash Flow to Equity Ouster is estimated to...Analysis Article • Jun 12
Ouster, Inc. (NASDAQ:OUST) Stocks Shoot Up 78% But Its P/S Still Looks Reasonable
Ouster, Inc. ( NASDAQ:OUST ) shares have continued their recent momentum with a 78% gain in the last month alone...Analysis Article • May 08
We're Interested To See How Ouster (NASDAQ:OUST) Uses Its Cash Hoard To Grow
Just because a business does not make any money, does not mean that the stock will go down. For example, although...
New Narrative • Mar 27
Blue City Expansion And Lidar Integration Will Shape ITS Future
Expansion into Intelligent Transportation Systems and collaborations with heavy equipment manufacturers enhance revenue potential and operational efficiencies.Seeking Alpha • Mar 21
Ouster: Big Plans Still On Tap
Summary Ouster, Inc. is progressing towards high-volume Lidar production deals, with record quarterly revenues of $30 million and a target of 30%-50% annual growth. The company has seen slow sensor sales growth but sees massive potential, exemplified by some strong industry signs. Ouster's strong cash position and limited cash burn reduce the need for additional capital. OUST stock is appealing at only 2x to 3x sales targets with exponential growth potential. Read the full article on Seeking AlphaAnalysis Article • Mar 13
Ouster, Inc.'s (NASDAQ:OUST) Share Price Is Still Matching Investor Opinion Despite 27% Slump
Ouster, Inc. ( NASDAQ:OUST ) shares have had a horrible month, losing 27% after a relatively good period beforehand...Analysis Article • Jan 30
Companies Like Ouster (NASDAQ:OUST) Are In A Position To Invest In Growth
Just because a business does not make any money, does not mean that the stock will go down. For example, although...Analysis Article • Jan 02
Ouster, Inc. (NASDAQ:OUST) Looks Just Right With A 34% Price Jump
Ouster, Inc. ( NASDAQ:OUST ) shares have continued their recent momentum with a 34% gain in the last month alone. The...Seeking Alpha • Nov 18
Ouster: Tip Of The Iceberg
Summary Ouster, Inc. is rapidly advancing in the Lidar sector by focusing on non-automotive industries, reporting record sales and significant production orders in robotics. The company is seeing substantial revenue growth, with Q4 sales projected to hit $29-$31 million, despite the stock market not recognizing this progress. Ouster only trades at 3x forward sales targets despite the major growth opportunities. Read the full article on Seeking AlphaCEO Compensation Analysis
| Date | Total Compensation | Salary | Company Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mar 31 2026 | n/a | n/a | -US$56m |
| Dec 31 2025 | US$3m | US$400k | -US$60m |
| Sep 30 2025 | n/a | n/a | -US$88m |
| Jun 30 2025 | n/a | n/a | -US$92m |
| Mar 31 2025 | n/a | n/a | -US$95m |
| Dec 31 2024 | US$2m | US$400k | -US$97m |
| Sep 30 2024 | n/a | n/a | -US$112m |
| Jun 30 2024 | n/a | n/a | -US$122m |
| Mar 31 2024 | n/a | n/a | -US$221m |
| Dec 31 2023 | US$1m | US$325k | -US$374m |
| Sep 30 2023 | n/a | n/a | -US$377m |
| Jun 30 2023 | n/a | n/a | -US$378m |
| Mar 31 2023 | n/a | n/a | -US$283m |
| Dec 31 2022 | US$166k | US$160k | -US$139m |
| Sep 30 2022 | n/a | n/a | -US$125m |
| Jun 30 2022 | n/a | n/a | -US$101m |
| Mar 31 2022 | n/a | n/a | -US$105m |
| Dec 31 2021 | US$125k | US$120k | -US$94m |
| Sep 30 2021 | n/a | n/a | -US$123m |
| Jun 30 2021 | n/a | n/a | -US$130m |
| Mar 31 2021 | n/a | n/a | -US$109m |
| Dec 31 2020 | US$13m | US$70k | -US$107m |
| Sep 30 2020 | n/a | n/a | -US$69m |
| Dec 31 2019 | US$125k | US$120k | -US$52m |
Compensation vs Market: Charles's total compensation ($USD3.36M) is below average for companies of similar size in the US market ($USD5.53M).
Compensation vs Earnings: Charles's compensation has increased whilst the company is unprofitable.
CEO
Charles Pacala (36 yo)
10.9yrs
Tenure
US$3,363,100
Compensation
Mr. Charles Angus Pacala co-founded Ouster, Inc. in June 2015 and has been its Chief Executive Officer and Director since then. Previously, Mr. Pacala was Director of Engineering at Quanergy, Inc. from Nov...
Leadership Team
| Name | Position | Tenure | Compensation | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Co-Founder | 10.9yrs | US$3.36m | 1.29% $ 28.7m | |
| Co-Founder & CTO | 10.9yrs | US$2.18m | 0.99% $ 21.9m | |
| Chief Financial Officer | 1yr | US$3.80m | no data | |
| Chief Operating Officer | 8.8yrs | US$1.63m | 0.38% $ 8.5m | |
| General Counsel & Corporate Secretary | 3.3yrs | US$1.14m | 0.34% $ 7.5m | |
| Head of Sales in South Korea | 4.5yrs | no data | no data | |
| Chief Revenue Officer | less than a year | no data | 0.074% $ 1.6m | |
| Senior VP of Strategic Finance & Treasurer | 1yr | no data | 0.11% $ 2.4m |
3.9yrs
Average Tenure
44yo
Average Age
Experienced Management: OUST's management team is considered experienced (3.9 years average tenure).
Board Members
| Name | Position | Tenure | Compensation | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Co-Founder | 10.9yrs | US$3.36m | 1.29% $ 28.7m | |
| Independent Director | 1.5yrs | US$329.13k | 0.068% $ 1.5m | |
| Member of Advisory Board | 4.5yrs | no data | no data | |
| Member of Advisory Board | 4.5yrs | no data | no data | |
| Independent Director | 3.3yrs | US$341.77k | 0.13% $ 2.8m | |
| Independent Vice-Chairman of the Board | 7.7yrs | US$418.92k | 0.064% $ 1.4m | |
| Member of Advisory Board | 4.5yrs | no data | no data | |
| Independent Chairman of the Board | 3.3yrs | US$380.77k | 0.13% $ 3.0m | |
| Member of Advisory Board | 4.5yrs | no data | no data | |
| Member of Advisory Board | 4.5yrs | no data | no data | |
| Member of Advisory Board | 1.5yrs | US$205.85k | 0.071% $ 1.6m | |
| Member of Advisory Board | 4.5yrs | no data | no data |
4.5yrs
Average Tenure
61.5yo
Average Age
Experienced Board: OUST's board of directors are considered experienced (4.5 years average tenure).
Company Analysis and Financial Data Status
| Data | Last Updated (UTC time) |
|---|---|
| Company Analysis | 2026/05/18 07:58 |
| End of Day Share Price | 2026/05/15 00:00 |
| Earnings | 2026/03/31 |
| Annual Earnings | 2025/12/31 |
Data Sources
The data used in our company analysis is from S&P Global Market Intelligence LLC. The following data is used in our analysis model to generate this report. Data is normalised which can introduce a delay from the source being available.
| Package | Data | Timeframe | Example US Source * |
|---|---|---|---|
| Company Financials | 10 years |
| |
| Analyst Consensus Estimates | +3 years |
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| Market Prices | 30 years |
| |
| Ownership | 10 years |
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| Management | 10 years |
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| Key Developments | 10 years |
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* Example for US securities, for non-US equivalent regulatory forms and sources are used.
Unless specified all financial data is based on a yearly period but updated quarterly. This is known as Trailing Twelve Month (TTM) or Last Twelve Month (LTM) Data. Learn more.
Analysis Model and Snowflake
Details of the analysis model used to generate this report is available on our Github page, we also have guides on how to use our reports and tutorials on Youtube.
Learn about the world class team who designed and built the Simply Wall St analysis model.
Industry and Sector Metrics
Our industry and section metrics are calculated every 6 hours by Simply Wall St, details of our process are available on Github.
Analyst Sources
Ouster, Inc. is covered by 8 analysts. 5 of those analysts submitted the estimates of revenue or earnings used as inputs to our report. Analysts submissions are updated throughout the day.
| Analyst | Institution |
|---|---|
| Andres Sheppard-Slinger | Cantor Fitzgerald & Co. |
| Itay Michaeli | Citigroup Inc |
| Richard Shannon | Craig-Hallum Capital Group LLC |