Oklo Inc. (OKLO) saw its stock price plummet 7.31% in after-hours trading on Monday following the release of its full-year 2024 financial results and business update. The advanced nuclear technology company's wider annual loss and warnings of future financial challenges appear to have spooked investors, overshadowing some positive developments.

According to the financial report, Oklo's net loss expanded to 74 cents per share in 2024, compared to 47 cents per share in the previous year. This significant increase in losses raised concerns about the company's financial health. Adding to investor worries, Oklo stated in its SEC filing that it expects to "incur significant expenses and continuing financial losses" in the near future, emphasizing its status as an early-stage company with a history of financial losses.

Despite the negative financial outlook, Oklo did report some positive developments. The company's cash used in operations for 2024 was $38.4 million, below the forecasted range of $40-50 million, suggesting some success in cost control measures. Additionally, Oklo announced progress in its regulatory pathway, engaging with the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission in a pre-application readiness assessment for its Aurora powerhouse at Idaho National Laboratory. The company also appointed two new board members, Daniel Poneman and Michael Thompson, bringing extensive experience in the nuclear and technology financing sectors to strengthen its leadership team.

As Oklo continues to develop its fast fission power plants and advance nuclear fuel recycling technologies, investors will be closely watching the company's ability to manage costs and progress towards commercialization. The stock's sharp decline after hours highlights the challenges faced by firms in the emerging advanced nuclear technology sector, where significant investments are required before commercial operations can begin.