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Cyanotech Corporation (CYAN)

For informational purposes only. Not financial advice. Analysis by Sedat Aydin, Founder & Editor-in-Chief | AI-powered analysis. Data sourced from SEC filings and institutional-grade financial providers. Editorially reviewed. Not financial advice.

Cyanotech Corporation (CYAN) with AI Score 40/100 (Weak). Cyanotech Corporation cultivates, produces, and sells natural products derived from microalgae, including BioAstin Hawaiian Astaxanthin and Hawaiian Spirulina Pacifica. Market cap: 0, Sector: Consumer defensive.

Last analyzed: Mar 16, 2026
Cyanotech Corporation cultivates, produces, and sells natural products derived from microalgae, including BioAstin Hawaiian Astaxanthin and Hawaiian Spirulina Pacifica. The company distributes its products through various channels, targeting the health foods, nutraceuticals, and dietary supplement markets.
40/100 AI Score

Cyanotech Corporation (CYAN) Consumer Business Overview

CEOMatthew Keith Custer
Employees77
HeadquartersKailua-Kona, US
IPO Year1991

Cyanotech Corporation, founded in 1983, specializes in microalgae-derived products like BioAstin and Spirulina, catering to the health and wellness market. With a focus on dietary supplements, the company distributes through diverse channels, including online, retail, and bulk sales, positioning itself within the competitive packaged foods sector.

Data Provenance | Financial Data Quantitative Analysis NASDAQ Analysis: Mar 16, 2026

Investment Thesis

Cyanotech Corporation presents a unique investment proposition within the consumer defensive sector, specifically in the niche market of microalgae-derived health supplements. The company's focus on BioAstin and Spirulina products caters to the growing demand for natural antioxidants and dietary supplements. However, with a negative P/E ratio of -1.35 and a negative profit margin of -7.1%, the company's current profitability is a concern. The gross margin of 32.1% indicates potential for improvement in operational efficiency. Key growth catalysts include expanding distribution channels and increasing consumer awareness of the health benefits of astaxanthin and spirulina. The company's low beta of -0.21 suggests relatively low volatility compared to the market, but investors should carefully consider the risks associated with OTC-traded companies.

Based on FMP financials and quantitative analysis

Key Highlights

  • Gross Margin of 32.1% indicates potential for profitability improvements through operational efficiencies.
  • Negative Profit Margin of -7.1% signals challenges in achieving sustainable profitability.
  • Market Cap of $0.00B reflects the company's small size and potential for growth or volatility.
  • P/E Ratio of -1.35 indicates the company is currently not profitable, requiring further investigation into its earnings potential.
  • Beta of -0.21 suggests the stock is less volatile than the market, potentially offering stability in turbulent times.

Competitors & Peers

Strengths

  • Established brand recognition for BioAstin and Spirulina.
  • Proprietary cultivation and extraction processes.
  • Direct-to-consumer sales channel.
  • Unique Hawaiian origin provides a marketing advantage.

Weaknesses

  • Negative profit margin.
  • Limited financial resources compared to larger competitors.
  • Reliance on a small number of key products.
  • Vulnerability to fluctuations in raw material costs.

Catalysts

  • Ongoing: Expansion of online sales channels to reach a broader customer base.
  • Ongoing: Strategic partnerships with retailers and distributors to increase market reach.
  • Ongoing: Product innovation and development of new formulations.
  • Ongoing: International market expansion to tap into new sources of revenue.
  • Ongoing: Increased consumer awareness and education campaigns to drive demand.

Risks

  • Potential: Increased competition from larger nutraceutical companies.
  • Potential: Changes in regulatory requirements for dietary supplements.
  • Potential: Fluctuations in raw material prices.
  • Potential: Negative publicity regarding the safety or efficacy of astaxanthin or spirulina.
  • Ongoing: Negative profit margin and limited financial resources.

Growth Opportunities

  • Expansion of Online Sales Channels: Cyanotech can capitalize on the growing e-commerce trend by expanding its online sales channels. The global e-commerce market is projected to reach trillions of dollars by 2026. By investing in its online presence, improving its website user experience, and leveraging digital marketing strategies, Cyanotech can reach a broader customer base and increase sales. This includes direct-to-consumer sales and partnerships with online retailers. Timeline: Ongoing.
  • Strategic Partnerships and Distribution Agreements: Forming strategic partnerships with major retailers and distributors can significantly expand Cyanotech's market reach. Collaborating with established players in the health and wellness industry can provide access to new markets and customer segments. This includes partnerships with grocery chains, pharmacies, and specialty health stores. Timeline: Ongoing.
  • Product Innovation and New Product Development: Investing in research and development to create new and innovative products can drive growth. This includes exploring new applications for astaxanthin and spirulina, as well as developing new formulations and delivery methods. The market for innovative dietary supplements is constantly evolving, and Cyanotech can stay ahead of the curve by introducing novel products that meet consumer needs. Timeline: Ongoing.
  • International Market Expansion: Expanding into international markets represents a significant growth opportunity for Cyanotech. The global dietary supplements market is growing rapidly, particularly in emerging economies. By targeting specific regions with tailored marketing strategies and distribution networks, Cyanotech can tap into new sources of revenue and diversify its customer base. Timeline: Ongoing.
  • Increased Consumer Awareness and Education: Investing in consumer education and awareness campaigns can drive demand for Cyanotech's products. Many consumers are not fully aware of the health benefits of astaxanthin and spirulina. By educating consumers about the science behind these ingredients and their potential health benefits, Cyanotech can increase demand and build brand loyalty. This includes content marketing, social media engagement, and partnerships with health influencers. Timeline: Ongoing.

Opportunities

  • Expansion into new international markets.
  • Development of new products and formulations.
  • Increased consumer awareness of the health benefits of astaxanthin and spirulina.
  • Strategic partnerships with major retailers and distributors.

Threats

  • Increased competition from larger nutraceutical companies.
  • Changes in regulatory requirements for dietary supplements.
  • Fluctuations in raw material prices.
  • Negative publicity regarding the safety or efficacy of astaxanthin or spirulina.

Competitive Advantages

  • Proprietary cultivation and extraction processes.
  • Established brand recognition for BioAstin and Spirulina.
  • Location in Hawaii provides a unique selling proposition (USP).
  • Long-standing relationships with distributors and retailers.

About CYAN

Cyanotech Corporation, established in 1983 and headquartered in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, focuses on the cultivation, production, and sale of natural products derived from microalgae. The company's flagship products include BioAstin Hawaiian Astaxanthin, a dietary antioxidant known for enhancing skin health and supporting eye, joint, and immune function. This product is marketed as a human dietary supplement and dietary ingredient. Another key product is Hawaiian Spirulina Pacifica, a nutrient-rich dietary supplement, promoted for its energy-boosting, immune-strengthening, and cardiovascular benefits, as well as its antioxidant carotenoid content. Cyanotech distributes its products through a variety of channels, including distributors, retailers, and online platforms, directly targeting consumers. Additionally, the company engages in bulk sales to manufacturers, formulators, and distributors within the health foods, nutraceuticals, and dietary supplement industries. The company also provides contract extraction services. Cyanotech's commitment to producing high-quality, microalgae-based products has allowed it to establish a presence in the competitive health and wellness market.

What They Do

  • Cultivates and produces microalgae.
  • Extracts and processes astaxanthin from microalgae.
  • Manufactures and packages dietary supplements.
  • Sells BioAstin Hawaiian Astaxanthin for skin, eye, joint, and immune health.
  • Sells Hawaiian Spirulina Pacifica for energy, immune support, and cardiovascular benefits.
  • Provides contract extraction services.

Business Model

  • Cultivation and production of microalgae-derived products.
  • Direct-to-consumer sales through online channels.
  • Sales through distributors and retailers.
  • Bulk sales to manufacturers and formulators.

Industry Context

Cyanotech Corporation operates within the consumer defensive sector, specifically in the packaged foods industry, focusing on dietary supplements. The global dietary supplements market is experiencing steady growth, driven by increasing health awareness and an aging population. Key trends include the rising demand for natural and organic products, as well as the growing popularity of online retail channels. Cyanotech faces competition from other players in the nutraceuticals market. Competitors include companies that offer similar algae-based products and broader dietary supplement brands. The company's success depends on its ability to differentiate its products through quality, branding, and effective marketing.

Key Customers

  • Health-conscious consumers seeking natural supplements.
  • Individuals looking for antioxidant and immune support.
  • Manufacturers and formulators in the health foods and nutraceuticals industries.
  • Retailers and distributors in the dietary supplement market.
AI Confidence: 71% Updated: Mar 16, 2026

Financials

Chart & Info

Cyanotech Corporation (CYAN) stock price: Price data unavailable

Latest News

Analyst Consensus

Consensus Rating

Aggregated Buy/Hold/Sell recommendations from Benzinga, Yahoo Finance, and Finnhub for CYAN.

Price Targets

Wall Street price target analysis for CYAN.

MoonshotScore

40/100

What does this score mean?

The MoonshotScore rates CYAN's growth potential on a scale of 0-100 across multiple factors including innovation, market disruption, financial health, and momentum.

Leadership: Matthew Keith Custer

CEO

Matthew Keith Custer serves as the CEO of Cyanotech Corporation, overseeing the company's operations and strategic direction. Information regarding his detailed career history, education, and previous roles is not available in the provided source data. As CEO, he is responsible for managing the company's 77 employees and driving its growth in the competitive nutraceuticals market. His leadership is crucial for navigating the challenges and opportunities facing Cyanotech in the evolving health and wellness industry.

Track Record: Due to the limitations of the provided source data, specific achievements, strategic decisions, and company milestones under Matthew Keith Custer's leadership cannot be detailed. His tenure and impact on Cyanotech's performance require further investigation beyond the available information. Assessing his track record would involve analyzing the company's financial performance, product innovation, and market share growth during his time as CEO.

CYAN OTC Market Information

The OTC Other tier represents the lowest tier of the OTC market, indicating that Cyanotech Corporation may not meet the minimum financial standards or reporting requirements of higher tiers like OTCQX or OTCQB. Companies in this tier often have limited financial disclosure, which increases investment risk. Trading on the OTC Other market typically involves less stringent listing requirements compared to major exchanges like the NYSE or NASDAQ, resulting in potentially less transparency and regulatory oversight. Investors should exercise caution and conduct thorough due diligence before investing in companies on this tier.

  • OTC Tier: OTC Other
  • Disclosure Status: Unknown
Liquidity: Liquidity on the OTC market can be highly variable. Given that Cyanotech trades on the OTC Other tier, it's likely that the stock experiences lower trading volumes and wider bid-ask spreads compared to stocks listed on major exchanges. This can make it more difficult to buy or sell shares quickly and at desired prices. Investors should be prepared for potential price volatility and limited liquidity when trading CYAN.
OTC Risk Factors:
  • Limited financial disclosure due to the OTC Other tier.
  • Lower trading volume and liquidity compared to major exchanges.
  • Potential for wider bid-ask spreads.
  • Increased price volatility.
  • Less stringent regulatory oversight.
Due Diligence Checklist:
  • Verify the company's financial statements and SEC filings (if any).
  • Research the company's management team and their track record.
  • Assess the company's business model and competitive landscape.
  • Evaluate the company's revenue and earnings growth potential.
  • Analyze the company's cash flow and debt levels.
  • Understand the risks associated with investing in OTC stocks.
  • Consult with a financial advisor before making any investment decisions.
Legitimacy Signals:
  • The company has been in operation since 1983.
  • Cyanotech has established brand recognition for BioAstin and Spirulina.
  • The company has a direct-to-consumer sales channel.
  • Cyanotech has a physical presence with its headquarters in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii.

What Investors Ask About Cyanotech Corporation (CYAN)

What does Cyanotech Corporation do?

Cyanotech Corporation cultivates, produces, and sells natural products derived from microalgae, primarily BioAstin Hawaiian Astaxanthin and Hawaiian Spirulina Pacifica. BioAstin is marketed as a dietary antioxidant to enhance skin, eye, joint, and immune health, while Spirulina Pacifica is promoted as a nutrient-rich supplement for energy, immune support, and cardiovascular benefits. The company distributes these products through various channels, including direct-to-consumer online sales, retailers, distributors, and bulk sales to manufacturers in the health foods, nutraceuticals, and dietary supplement markets. Cyanotech also provides contract extraction services.

What do analysts say about CYAN stock?

AI analysis is pending for CYAN, so a comprehensive analyst consensus is not currently available. However, key valuation metrics such as the negative P/E ratio of -1.35 and the negative profit margin of -7.1% suggest that the company faces profitability challenges. The gross margin of 32.1% indicates potential for improvement. Growth considerations include expanding distribution channels, increasing consumer awareness, and developing new products. Investors should conduct thorough due diligence and consider the risks associated with OTC-traded companies before making any investment decisions.

What are the main risks for CYAN?

Cyanotech faces several risks, including increased competition from larger nutraceutical companies with greater resources, potential changes in regulatory requirements for dietary supplements, and fluctuations in raw material prices, which could impact profitability. Negative publicity regarding the safety or efficacy of astaxanthin or spirulina could also harm the company's reputation and sales. Additionally, the company's negative profit margin and limited financial resources pose ongoing challenges to its long-term sustainability. As an OTC-traded company, CYAN is subject to less stringent regulatory oversight, which introduces additional risks for investors.

What are the key factors to evaluate for CYAN?

Cyanotech Corporation (CYAN) currently holds an AI score of 40/100, indicating low score. Key strength: Established brand recognition for BioAstin and Spirulina.. Primary risk to monitor: Potential: Increased competition from larger nutraceutical companies.. This is not financial advice.

How frequently does CYAN data refresh on this page?

CYAN prices update in real time during U.S. market hours (9:30 AM-4:00 PM ET, weekdays). Fundamentals refresh after quarterly or annual filings. Analyst ratings and AI insights update daily. News is aggregated continuously from financial sources.

What has driven CYAN's recent stock price performance?

Recent price movement in Cyanotech Corporation (CYAN) can be influenced by earnings results, analyst revisions, sector rotation, and broader market sentiment. Notable catalyst: Established brand recognition for BioAstin and Spirulina.. Check the News and Technical Analysis tabs for the latest drivers. Past performance does not predict future results.

Should investors consider CYAN overvalued or undervalued right now?

Determining whether Cyanotech Corporation (CYAN) is overvalued or undervalued requires examining multiple metrics. Compare valuation ratios (P/E, P/S, EV/EBITDA) against sector peers for a comprehensive view.

What research should beginners do before buying CYAN?

Before investing in Cyanotech Corporation (CYAN), research these four areas: (1) the company's revenue model and competitive position (see Company Overview), (2) financial health through revenue growth, margins, and cash flow (see MoonshotScore), (3) what Wall Street analysts recommend and their price targets (see Analyst tab), and (4) specific risk factors that could impact the stock (see Risk Factors section).

Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice. Always do your own research and consult a financial advisor.

Official Resources

Analysis updated AI Score refreshed daily
Data Sources & Methodology
Market data powered by Financial Modeling Prep & Yahoo Finance. AI analysis by Stock Expert AI proprietary algorithms. Technical indicators via industry-standard calculations. Last updated: .

Data provided for informational purposes only.

Analysis Notes
  • Limited information available on CEO's background and track record.
  • OTC analysis based on general characteristics of the OTC Other tier.
Data Sources

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