Class Action Lawsuit Against Cepton, Inc.
On October 23, 2025, Pomerantz LLP announced the filing of a class action lawsuit against Cepton, Inc., a company publicly traded on the NASDAQ under the ticker CPTN, as well as certain officers of the company. This lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California, takes aim at events that transpired between July 29, 2024, and January 6, 2025. During this period, all individuals and entities who bought or sold Cepton's common stock may be entitled to recover damages caused by alleged violations of federal securities laws.
Background of Cepton, Inc.
Prior to its merger with Koito Manufacturing Co., Ltd., Cepton was engaged in developing advanced light detection and ranging (LiDAR) technology aimed at enhancing safety and autonomy in automotive and smart infrastructure markets. The firm specialized in producing a variety of lidar systems—including near-range, long-range, and ultra-long-range solutions—together with supporting automotive software.
The Koito Acquisition, which involved a $200 million investment by the Japanese lighting manufacturer in exchange for a significant shareholding and board representation, initiated a series of events that would raise the concerns leading to this class action.
The Allegations
The lawsuit outlines several key allegations against Cepton and its leadership, primarily claiming that false and misleading statements were made regarding the company's business operations and compliance with legal standards. Some of the crucial points highlighted in the complaint include:
- - Undisclosed Bids: It is alleged that Cepton received a credible third-party bid that valued the company at more than twice the amount offered by Koito but failed to disclose this to the shareholders.
- - Board Negligence: The Board of Directors allegedly did not adequately explore this third-party offer before recommending that shareholders accept Koito's acquisition proposal.
- - Misleading Statements: Defendants are accused of making materially false statements that affected investors' ability to make informed decisions regarding the acquisition.
The Koito Acquisition was completed on January 7, 2025, with shareholders receiving $3.17 per share in cash. Critics of the deal, as laid out in the complaint, argue that the price was significantly undervalued given other bids. The action outlines how investors were deprived of their right to fully assess the conditions of the merger and make decisions accordingly.
Legal Framework and Next Steps
Investors who purchased or otherwise acquired Cepton’s securities during the defined Class Period have until December 8, 2025, to petition the court for Lead Plaintiff status in the class action. For those interested in joining the lawsuit, further details and a copy of the Complaint can be found on the law firm’s website.
Pomerantz is renowned for its extensive experience in corporate, securities, and antitrust class actions, having secured billions in damages for affected investors over its long-standing history. The firm aims to uphold the rights of shareholders and ensure that those who may have suffered damages due to corporate misconduct are duly compensated.
If you believe you fall under the category of affected investors, it is highly recommended to reach out to Pomerantz LLP for consultation. You can contact Danielle Peyton at [email protected] or call 646-581-9980 for assistance.
In summary, this class action serves as a pivotal reminder of the importance of transparency and accountability in corporate governance. As this case unfolds, it may bring significant implications not just for Cepton, but also for the wider industry and its investors.