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27100.0 | 2015-01-30 00:00:00 UTC | Q4 Earnings Tally, & What It Means - Ahead of Wall Street | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/q4-earnings-tally-what-it-means-ahead-wall-street-2015-01-30 | nan | nan | Friday, January 30, 2015
(This is Mark Vickery substituting for Sheraz Mian, who is giving an interview this morning.)
With so much to talk about - and so much of it earnings-related - I thought it prudent to simply list a series of companies that have reported Q4 earnings before the bell this Friday, then give a general overview. But first, Q4 gross domestic product (GDP) numbers have just been released.
Q4 GDP reached 2.6 percent, lower than the range of 2.8 - 3.2 percent expected. But strong consumer spending was higher than expected, indicating that inventory growth may have weighed on this first read for Q4 GDP. Basically, count anything close to 3 percent as relatively in-line for now, especially considering the two revisions to come in the following months. The 2.6 number is definitely noteworthy compared to the final Q3 read of 5 percent, but the pricing index for Q4 remained unchanged.
Manpower Group ( MAN ) beats forecasts on higher Q4 numbers than expected, indicating strength in the jobs market we saw in yesterday's Initial Jobless Claims that were far below estimates. Manpower said growth in Europe was sluggish, but the company managed to meet estimates on the top line.
Tyson Goods ( TSN ) beat expectations before the bell Friday, and kept its forecast for full-year 2015 intact.
Beazer Homes ( BZH ) missed estimates on a loss in the company's fiscal Q1. However, the homebuilder expects its 2016 projections to remain on course.
Eli Lilly & Co. ( LLY ) beat earnings estimates by a penny, but lowered its its revenue forecast for fiscal 2015, but kept its earnings estimates unchanged. AbbVie ( ABBV ) reported a loss but beat estimates.
As Zacks Director of Research Sheraz Mian had pointed out earlier, earnings results thus far offer a mixed comparison to what we have seen from the same group of companies in recent quarters. The earnings growth rate is higher than what we saw from these companies in Q3, but below the 4-quarter average growth rate, with the revenue growth rate the other way around. With respect to surprises, the earnings beat ratios are in-line with the preceding quarter, but tracking above the 4-quarter average. Revenue beat ratios are on the weak side.
Apple's ( AAPL ) record quarter has an outsized impact on the aggregate picture at this stage, with the earnings and revenue growth rates no longer comparing favorably to other recent quarters. The Apple effect is particularly notable for the Technology sector, where total earnings are currently up on higher revenues - a better performance than we have seen from this group of companies in a number of quarters. But the picture isn't that strong once Apple is excluded from the mix - the Q4 growth rates outside of Apple are actually lower compared to other recent quarters.
Estimates for the current and following quarter have started coming down in a big way, with the Energy sector again playing a leading role as it did in the run up to the start of the Q4 earnings season. Total earnings for the S&P 500 companies in Q1 are now expected to be down -0.5% from the same period last year, a big drop from the +10.8% growth that was expected in early October.
Mark Vickery
Senior Editor
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | AbbVie ( ABBV ) reported a loss but beat estimates. Click to get this free report MANPOWER INC WI (MAN): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report LILLY ELI & CO (LLY): Free Stock Analysis Report TYSON FOODS A (TSN): Free Stock Analysis Report BEAZER HOMES (BZH): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. With so much to talk about - and so much of it earnings-related - I thought it prudent to simply list a series of companies that have reported Q4 earnings before the bell this Friday, then give a general overview. | Click to get this free report MANPOWER INC WI (MAN): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report LILLY ELI & CO (LLY): Free Stock Analysis Report TYSON FOODS A (TSN): Free Stock Analysis Report BEAZER HOMES (BZH): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. AbbVie ( ABBV ) reported a loss but beat estimates. Manpower Group ( MAN ) beats forecasts on higher Q4 numbers than expected, indicating strength in the jobs market we saw in yesterday's Initial Jobless Claims that were far below estimates. | Click to get this free report MANPOWER INC WI (MAN): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report LILLY ELI & CO (LLY): Free Stock Analysis Report TYSON FOODS A (TSN): Free Stock Analysis Report BEAZER HOMES (BZH): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. AbbVie ( ABBV ) reported a loss but beat estimates. Eli Lilly & Co. ( LLY ) beat earnings estimates by a penny, but lowered its its revenue forecast for fiscal 2015, but kept its earnings estimates unchanged. | AbbVie ( ABBV ) reported a loss but beat estimates. Click to get this free report MANPOWER INC WI (MAN): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report LILLY ELI & CO (LLY): Free Stock Analysis Report TYSON FOODS A (TSN): Free Stock Analysis Report BEAZER HOMES (BZH): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. As Zacks Director of Research Sheraz Mian had pointed out earlier, earnings results thus far offer a mixed comparison to what we have seen from the same group of companies in recent quarters. | d93997a5-b183-43ed-bec0-a5cb8095bcb9 |
27101.0 | 2015-01-30 00:00:00 UTC | AbbVie (ABBV) Tops 4Q Earnings Estimates, Affirms View - Tale of the Tape | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/abbvie-abbv-tops-4q-earnings-estimates-affirms-view-tale-of-the-tape-2015-01-30 | nan | nan | North Chicago, IL-based AbbVie ( ABBV ), which has been in the news thanks to the recent approval of its hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment Viekira Pak, is best known for its autoimmune disease drug, Humira.
Humira, the company's flagship product which is approved for a wide range of indications, is a major contributor to AbbVie's top line. While Humira will remain the key growth driver at AbbVie, the coming quarters will see investor focus remaining primarily on the initial response to the Viekira Pak launch as well as the company's sales expectations for 2015.
Although AbbVie has already provided earnings guidance for 2015 ($4.25 - $4.45 per share), the company will refine the guidance as the HCV launch progresses. Key players in the HCV market include Gilead's (GILD) Sovaldi and Harvoni.
ABBV has a pretty good earnings track record with the company delivering positive earnings surprises in each of the last three quarters with an average surprise of 6.67% in the last four quarters. Estimate revisions are mostly positive with analysts upping their estimates for 2015.
Currently, ABBV has a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy), but that could definitely change following the company's earnings report which was just released. We have highlighted some of the key stats from this just-revealed announcement below:
Earnings Beat: ABBV beat on fourth quarter earnings by four cents. Our consensus called for EPS of 85 cents, and the company reported EPS of 89 cents.
In-Line Revenues: AbbVie posted adjusted revenues of $5.371 billion, in line with consensus estimates.
Key Stats: Humira once again boosted the top line with sales coming in at $3.4 billion. Newly launched Viekira Pak delivered sales of $48 million.
ABBV confirmed its guidance for 2015 - the Zacks Consensus Estimate currently stands at $4.51 per share.
Stock Price: Shares are down slightly (0.74%) in pre-market trading following the release.
Check back later for our full write up on this ABBV earnings report later!
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | North Chicago, IL-based AbbVie ( ABBV ), which has been in the news thanks to the recent approval of its hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment Viekira Pak, is best known for its autoimmune disease drug, Humira. Humira, the company's flagship product which is approved for a wide range of indications, is a major contributor to AbbVie's top line. While Humira will remain the key growth driver at AbbVie, the coming quarters will see investor focus remaining primarily on the initial response to the Viekira Pak launch as well as the company's sales expectations for 2015. | ABBV has a pretty good earnings track record with the company delivering positive earnings surprises in each of the last three quarters with an average surprise of 6.67% in the last four quarters. North Chicago, IL-based AbbVie ( ABBV ), which has been in the news thanks to the recent approval of its hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment Viekira Pak, is best known for its autoimmune disease drug, Humira. Humira, the company's flagship product which is approved for a wide range of indications, is a major contributor to AbbVie's top line. | While Humira will remain the key growth driver at AbbVie, the coming quarters will see investor focus remaining primarily on the initial response to the Viekira Pak launch as well as the company's sales expectations for 2015. ABBV has a pretty good earnings track record with the company delivering positive earnings surprises in each of the last three quarters with an average surprise of 6.67% in the last four quarters. Click to get this free report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. | Currently, ABBV has a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy), but that could definitely change following the company's earnings report which was just released. We have highlighted some of the key stats from this just-revealed announcement below: Earnings Beat: ABBV beat on fourth quarter earnings by four cents. ABBV confirmed its guidance for 2015 - the Zacks Consensus Estimate currently stands at $4.51 per share. | 627738db-137d-41b1-b46a-83c00b84ba45 |
27102.0 | 2015-01-30 00:00:00 UTC | Earnings Reaction History: AbbVie Inc., 57.1% Follow-Through Indicator, 2.0% Sensitive | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/earnings-reaction-history-abbvie-inc-571-follow-through-indicator-20-sensitive-2015-01-30 | nan | nan | Expected Earnings Release: 01/30/2015, Premarket
Avg. Extended-Hours Dollar Volume: $3,719,777
AbbVie Inc. ( ABBV ) is due to issue its quarterly earnings report in the upcoming extended-hours session. Given its history, traders can expect light trading in the issue immediately following its quarterly earnings announcement. Historical earnings event related premarket and after-hours trading activity in ABBV indicates that the price change in the extended hours is likely to be of limited value in forecasting additional price movement by the following regular session close.
Last 12 Qtrs Positive Only Price Reactions
Percent of time added to extended-hours gains: 50%
Average next regular session additional gain: 2.4%
Over the prior three fiscal years (12 quarters), when shares of ABBV rose in the extended-hours session in reaction to its earnings announcement, history shows that 50.0% of the time (3 events) the stock posted additional gains in the following regular session by an average of 2.4%.
Last 12 Qtrs Negative Only Price Reactions
Percent of time added to extended-hours losses: 100%
Average next regular session additional loss: 0.3%
Over that same historical period, when shares of ABBV dropped in the extended-hours in reaction to its earnings announcement, history shows that 100.0% of the time (1 event) the stock dropped further, adding to the extended-hours losses by an average of 0.3% by the following regular session close.
Data provided by the MT Pro service at MTNewswires.com.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
Copyright (C) 2016 MTNewswires.com. All rights reserved. Unauthorized reproduction is strictly prohibited.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | Last 12 Qtrs Positive Only Price Reactions Percent of time added to extended-hours gains: 50% Average next regular session additional gain: 2.4% Over the prior three fiscal years (12 quarters), when shares of ABBV rose in the extended-hours session in reaction to its earnings announcement, history shows that 50.0% of the time (3 events) the stock posted additional gains in the following regular session by an average of 2.4%. Last 12 Qtrs Negative Only Price Reactions Percent of time added to extended-hours losses: 100% Average next regular session additional loss: 0.3% Over that same historical period, when shares of ABBV dropped in the extended-hours in reaction to its earnings announcement, history shows that 100.0% of the time (1 event) the stock dropped further, adding to the extended-hours losses by an average of 0.3% by the following regular session close. Extended-Hours Dollar Volume: $3,719,777 AbbVie Inc. ( ABBV ) is due to issue its quarterly earnings report in the upcoming extended-hours session. | Last 12 Qtrs Positive Only Price Reactions Percent of time added to extended-hours gains: 50% Average next regular session additional gain: 2.4% Over the prior three fiscal years (12 quarters), when shares of ABBV rose in the extended-hours session in reaction to its earnings announcement, history shows that 50.0% of the time (3 events) the stock posted additional gains in the following regular session by an average of 2.4%. Last 12 Qtrs Negative Only Price Reactions Percent of time added to extended-hours losses: 100% Average next regular session additional loss: 0.3% Over that same historical period, when shares of ABBV dropped in the extended-hours in reaction to its earnings announcement, history shows that 100.0% of the time (1 event) the stock dropped further, adding to the extended-hours losses by an average of 0.3% by the following regular session close. Extended-Hours Dollar Volume: $3,719,777 AbbVie Inc. ( ABBV ) is due to issue its quarterly earnings report in the upcoming extended-hours session. | Last 12 Qtrs Positive Only Price Reactions Percent of time added to extended-hours gains: 50% Average next regular session additional gain: 2.4% Over the prior three fiscal years (12 quarters), when shares of ABBV rose in the extended-hours session in reaction to its earnings announcement, history shows that 50.0% of the time (3 events) the stock posted additional gains in the following regular session by an average of 2.4%. Last 12 Qtrs Negative Only Price Reactions Percent of time added to extended-hours losses: 100% Average next regular session additional loss: 0.3% Over that same historical period, when shares of ABBV dropped in the extended-hours in reaction to its earnings announcement, history shows that 100.0% of the time (1 event) the stock dropped further, adding to the extended-hours losses by an average of 0.3% by the following regular session close. Extended-Hours Dollar Volume: $3,719,777 AbbVie Inc. ( ABBV ) is due to issue its quarterly earnings report in the upcoming extended-hours session. | Extended-Hours Dollar Volume: $3,719,777 AbbVie Inc. ( ABBV ) is due to issue its quarterly earnings report in the upcoming extended-hours session. Last 12 Qtrs Positive Only Price Reactions Percent of time added to extended-hours gains: 50% Average next regular session additional gain: 2.4% Over the prior three fiscal years (12 quarters), when shares of ABBV rose in the extended-hours session in reaction to its earnings announcement, history shows that 50.0% of the time (3 events) the stock posted additional gains in the following regular session by an average of 2.4%. Historical earnings event related premarket and after-hours trading activity in ABBV indicates that the price change in the extended hours is likely to be of limited value in forecasting additional price movement by the following regular session close. | 581c2f27-f8fd-40b0-97a1-13a46ae92c05 |
27103.0 | 2015-01-29 00:00:00 UTC | Roche Misses on Earnings in 2014, Beats on Revenues - Analyst Blog | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/roche-misses-on-earnings-in-2014-beats-on-revenues-analyst-blog-2015-01-29 | nan | nan | Roche's ( RHHBY ) core earnings came in at $1.95 per American Depositary Receipt (ADR) in 2014 but missed the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.99 per ADR. Revenues of $51.9 billion beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $50.4 billion.
All growth rates mentioned below are on a year-over-year basis and at constant exchange rates.
2014 Results in Detail
Roche reports business in two divisions: Pharmaceuticals and Diagnostics.
Sales of the Pharmaceuticals division increased 4% to CHF36.7 billion driven by solid growth across the oncology portfolio (HER2+ breast cancer medicines and Avastin) and the immunology franchise (Actemra and Xolair).
Sales of HER2 breast cancer franchise (+20%) were driven by strong demand for new drugs Perjeta and Kadcyla along with the legacy drug Herceptin.
Sales of Avastin were up 6% due to increased demand in the ovarian and colorectal cancer indications. Strong sales of blood cancer drug Rituxan/MabThera (+2%) in Europe were driven by increased market share in both follicular lymphoma and a first-line treatment for chronic lymphocytic leukemia.
Sales of rheumatoid arthritis drug Actemra (+23%) were strong in all major markets driven by increased use in monotherapy and earlier use in treatment for rheumatoid arthritis, with significant uptake of the new subcutaneous formulation. Ophthalmology drug, Lucentis (+2%) was up on its increased adoption for the treatment of diabetic macular edema (DME).
Asthma drug Xolair (+25%) showed strength as its demand increased after the FDA approved it for another indication - chronic idiopathic urticaria. We note that Novartis ( NVS ) licensed Xolair from Roche. Roche markets Xolair in the U.S.
However, sales of chemotherapy drug Xeloda plunged 46% due to generic competition in the U.S. and Europe. Pegasys was down 20% due to competition from a new generation of hepatitis C treatment. Tamiflu (+54%) grew robustly toward the end of the year as a result of the flu epidemic in the U.S.
Meanwhile, the acquisition of InterMune in Sep 2014 added Esbriet to Roche's portfolio. Esbriet was recently approved by the FDA for the treatment of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. The company expects to launch the drug in the U.S. in 2015.
Revenues from the Diagnostics division went up 6% to CHF 10.8 billion driven by solid performance of the professional diagnostics (+8%) unit, which was in turn propelled by the immunodiagnostics business (+13%). Tissue diagnostics (+10%) also performed impressively. Diabetes care sales were up 1% while molecular diagnostics sales increased 6%. Roche launched 14 key products in 2014, including the new cobas 6800 and cobas 8800 systems for molecular testing, and cobas 6500.
2015 Outlook
Roche expects sales in 2015 to increase in low-to-mid single digits. The company expects its core earnings per share to grow at a higher rate than sales.
Pipeline Update
Roche's pipeline progress in 2014 was encouraging. Avastin was approved for cervical cancer in the U.S. and platinum-resistant ovarian cancer in Europe. Positive news flowed in when Gazyvaro (trade name Gazyva outside the EU) was approved for chronic lymphocytic leukemia in Europe.
Roche also reported positive overall survival data from the phase III study, CLEOPATRA, on Perjeta in HER2-positive metastatic breast cancer wherein it was observed that adding Perjeta to Herceptin and chemotherapy increased the survival time for treatment-naïve patients by five years.
We note that cancer immunotherapy is a key focus area for Roche with currently seven candidates under development. The FDA granted Breakthrough Therapy designation to cancer immunotherapy candidate anti-PDL1 (MPDL3280A) for bladder cancer and Lucentis for diabetic retinopathy.
Meanwhile, Roche initiated phase III trials on ophthalmology candidate lampalizumab for the potential treatment of geographic atrophy.
However, there were a few setbacks as well as phase III studies on bitopertin for schizophrenia failed to meet primary endpoints. Also, a phase III study on gantenerumab in early-stage Alzheimer's disease was discontinued after a pre-planned futility analysis. Roche also discontinued the development of onartuzumab in advanced MET-positive non-small cell lung cancer when it failed to show clinically meaningful efficacy.
Our Take
We are encouraged by Roche's performance 2014. The oncology portfolio looks solid as ever and we expect further traction in 2015. We are also impressed by the company's efforts to grow its portfolio beyond oncology to immunology and ophthalmology However, generic competition for Xeloda, Zelboraf and Pegasys will continue to hamper sales. Lucentis is expected to face strong competition in the DME and wet age-related macular degeneration space.
Roche currently carries a Zacks Rank #4 (Sell). Some better-ranked stocks in the health care sector include Allergan ( AGN ) and AbbVie ( ABBV ) Both carry a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy).
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | Some better-ranked stocks in the health care sector include Allergan ( AGN ) and AbbVie ( ABBV ) Both carry a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). Click to get this free report ROCHE HLDG LTD (RHHBY): Free Stock Analysis Report ALLERGAN INC (AGN): Free Stock Analysis Report NOVARTIS AG-ADR (NVS): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Sales of the Pharmaceuticals division increased 4% to CHF36.7 billion driven by solid growth across the oncology portfolio (HER2+ breast cancer medicines and Avastin) and the immunology franchise (Actemra and Xolair). | Some better-ranked stocks in the health care sector include Allergan ( AGN ) and AbbVie ( ABBV ) Both carry a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). Click to get this free report ROCHE HLDG LTD (RHHBY): Free Stock Analysis Report ALLERGAN INC (AGN): Free Stock Analysis Report NOVARTIS AG-ADR (NVS): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Sales of the Pharmaceuticals division increased 4% to CHF36.7 billion driven by solid growth across the oncology portfolio (HER2+ breast cancer medicines and Avastin) and the immunology franchise (Actemra and Xolair). | Click to get this free report ROCHE HLDG LTD (RHHBY): Free Stock Analysis Report ALLERGAN INC (AGN): Free Stock Analysis Report NOVARTIS AG-ADR (NVS): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Some better-ranked stocks in the health care sector include Allergan ( AGN ) and AbbVie ( ABBV ) Both carry a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). Sales of the Pharmaceuticals division increased 4% to CHF36.7 billion driven by solid growth across the oncology portfolio (HER2+ breast cancer medicines and Avastin) and the immunology franchise (Actemra and Xolair). | Some better-ranked stocks in the health care sector include Allergan ( AGN ) and AbbVie ( ABBV ) Both carry a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). Click to get this free report ROCHE HLDG LTD (RHHBY): Free Stock Analysis Report ALLERGAN INC (AGN): Free Stock Analysis Report NOVARTIS AG-ADR (NVS): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Sales of the Pharmaceuticals division increased 4% to CHF36.7 billion driven by solid growth across the oncology portfolio (HER2+ breast cancer medicines and Avastin) and the immunology franchise (Actemra and Xolair). | 4206f3a1-a9e9-4bf5-afb1-56f3a1197ca0 |
27104.0 | 2015-01-29 00:00:00 UTC | Pre-Market Earnings Report for January 30, 2015 : CVX, MO, ABBV, MA, LLY, SPG, BEN, WY, TYC, IR, XRX, TSN | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/pre-market-earnings-report-january-30-2015-cvx-mo-abbv-ma-lly-spg-ben-wy-tyc-ir-xrx-tsn | nan | nan | The following companies are expected to report earnings prior to market open on 01/30/2015. Visit our Earnings Calendar for a full list of expected earnings releases.
Chevron Corporation ( CVX ) is reporting for the quarter ending December 31, 2014. The oil company's consensus earnings per share forecast from the 10 analysts that follow the stock is $1.67. This value represents a 35.02% decrease compared to the same quarter last year. Zacks Investment Research reports that the 2014 Price to Earnings ratio for CVX is 10.53 vs. an industry ratio of 10.20, implying that they will have a higher earnings growth than their competitors in the same industry.
Altria Group ( MO ) is reporting for the quarter ending December 31, 2014. The tobacco company's consensus earnings per share forecast from the 5 analysts that follow the stock is $0.67. This value represents a 17.54% increase compared to the same quarter last year. MO missed the consensus earnings per share in the 4th calendar quarter of 2013 by -1.72%. Zacks Investment Research reports that the 2014 Price to Earnings ratio for MO is 21.02 vs. an industry ratio of 24.40.
AbbVie Inc. ( ABBV ) is reporting for the quarter ending December 31, 2014. The large cap pharmaceutical company's consensus earnings per share forecast from the 6 analysts that follow the stock is $0.85. This value represents a 3.66% increase compared to the same quarter last year. ABBV missed the consensus earnings per share in the 4th calendar quarter of 2013 by -1.2%. Zacks Investment Research reports that the 2014 Price to Earnings ratio for ABBV is 18.80 vs. an industry ratio of 22.30.
Mastercard Incorporated ( MA ) is reporting for the quarter ending December 31, 2014. The financial transactions company's consensus earnings per share forecast from the 18 analysts that follow the stock is $0.67. This value represents a 17.54% increase compared to the same quarter last year. MA missed the consensus earnings per share in the 4th calendar quarter of 2013 by -5%. Zacks Investment Research reports that the 2014 Price to Earnings ratio for MA is 26.21 vs. an industry ratio of 39.10.
Eli Lilly and Company ( LLY ) is reporting for the quarter ending December 31, 2014. The large cap pharmaceutical company's consensus earnings per share forecast from the 8 analysts that follow the stock is $0.74. This value represents a no change for the same quarter last year. In the past year LLY has met analyst expectations twice and beat the expectations the other two quarters. Zacks Investment Research reports that the 2014 Price to Earnings ratio for LLY is 25.53 vs. an industry ratio of 22.30, implying that they will have a higher earnings growth than their competitors in the same industry.
Simon Property Group, Inc. ( SPG ) is reporting for the quarter ending December 31, 2014. The reit company's consensus earnings per share forecast from the 11 analysts that follow the stock is $2.47. This value represents a no change for the same quarter last year. SPG missed the consensus earnings per share in the 3rd calendar quarter of 2014 by -5.94%. Zacks Investment Research reports that the 2014 Price to Earnings ratio for SPG is 22.84 vs. an industry ratio of 17.80, implying that they will have a higher earnings growth than their competitors in the same industry.
Franklin Resources, Inc. ( BEN ) is reporting for the quarter ending December 31, 2014. The finance/investment management company's consensus earnings per share forecast from the 10 analysts that follow the stock is $0.93. This value represents a 3.12% decrease compared to the same quarter last year. Zacks Investment Research reports that the 2015 Price to Earnings ratio for BEN is 14.10 vs. an industry ratio of 22.30.
Weyerhaeuser Company ( WY ) is reporting for the quarter ending December 31, 2014. The building company's consensus earnings per share forecast from the 7 analysts that follow the stock is $0.28. This value represents a 3.70% increase compared to the same quarter last year. In the past year WY has met analyst expectations once and beat the expectations the other three quarters. Zacks Investment Research reports that the 2014 Price to Earnings ratio for WY is 27.36 vs. an industry ratio of 24.30, implying that they will have a higher earnings growth than their competitors in the same industry.
Tyco International plc ( TYC ) is reporting for the quarter ending December 31, 2014. The protection safety company's consensus earnings per share forecast from the 8 analysts that follow the stock is $0.49. This value represents a 4.26% increase compared to the same quarter last year. In the past year TYC has met analyst expectations twice and beat the expectations the other two quarters. Zacks Investment Research reports that the 2015 Price to Earnings ratio for TYC is 17.11 vs. an industry ratio of 42.10.
Ingersoll-Rand plc (Ireland) ( IR ) is reporting for the quarter ending December 31, 2014. The machinery company's consensus earnings per share forecast from the 11 analysts that follow the stock is $0.70. This value represents a 14.75% increase compared to the same quarter last year. In the past year IR has beat the expectations every quarter. The highest one was in the 3rd calendar quarter where they beat the consensus by 5.77%. Zacks Investment Research reports that the 2014 Price to Earnings ratio for IR is 19.89 vs. an industry ratio of 14.40, implying that they will have a higher earnings growth than their competitors in the same industry.
Xerox Corporation ( XRX ) is reporting for the quarter ending December 31, 2014. The office automation company's consensus earnings per share forecast from the 3 analysts that follow the stock is $0.28. This value represents a 3.45% decrease compared to the same quarter last year. In the past year XRX has met analyst expectations once and beat the expectations the other three quarters. Zacks Investment Research reports that the 2014 Price to Earnings ratio for XRX is 12.26 vs. an industry ratio of 12.30.
Tyson Foods, Inc. ( TSN ) is reporting for the quarter ending December 31, 2014. The meat product company's consensus earnings per share forecast from the 4 analysts that follow the stock is $0.72. This value represents a no change for the same quarter last year. Zacks Investment Research reports that the 2015 Price to Earnings ratio for TSN is 11.89 vs. an industry ratio of 34.10.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | AbbVie Inc. ( ABBV ) is reporting for the quarter ending December 31, 2014. ABBV missed the consensus earnings per share in the 4th calendar quarter of 2013 by -1.2%. Zacks Investment Research reports that the 2014 Price to Earnings ratio for ABBV is 18.80 vs. an industry ratio of 22.30. | AbbVie Inc. ( ABBV ) is reporting for the quarter ending December 31, 2014. ABBV missed the consensus earnings per share in the 4th calendar quarter of 2013 by -1.2%. Zacks Investment Research reports that the 2014 Price to Earnings ratio for ABBV is 18.80 vs. an industry ratio of 22.30. | AbbVie Inc. ( ABBV ) is reporting for the quarter ending December 31, 2014. ABBV missed the consensus earnings per share in the 4th calendar quarter of 2013 by -1.2%. Zacks Investment Research reports that the 2014 Price to Earnings ratio for ABBV is 18.80 vs. an industry ratio of 22.30. | AbbVie Inc. ( ABBV ) is reporting for the quarter ending December 31, 2014. ABBV missed the consensus earnings per share in the 4th calendar quarter of 2013 by -1.2%. Zacks Investment Research reports that the 2014 Price to Earnings ratio for ABBV is 18.80 vs. an industry ratio of 22.30. | 814f6086-1945-43bc-a0a6-3e36cef8b2e3 |
27105.0 | 2015-01-29 00:00:00 UTC | Abbott Labs' (ABT) Q4 Earnings Up, Guides Below Estimates - Analyst Blog | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/abbott-labs-abt-q4-earnings-up-guides-below-estimates-analyst-blog-2015-01-29 | nan | nan | Abbott Laboratories ( ABT ) reported fourth-quarter 2014 earnings of 62 cents per share, up 29.2% from the year-ago quarter.
We note that Abbott Labs agreed to sell its developed markets generics pharmaceutical business to Mylan ( MYL ) in Jul 2014. The company has also decided to sell its animal health business. Hence, both these businesses have been reported as discontinued operations.
Including the discontinued operations, earnings came in at 71 cents, up 22.4% year over year. The Zacks Consensus Estimate was 68 cents.
Abbott Labs generated sales of $5.4 billion in the fourth quarter of 2014, up 5.6% year over year (on a reported basis). Sales were impacted unfavorably by foreign exchange movements to the tune of 4.6% during the quarter. Quarterly sales were below the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $5.6 billion.
Fourth Quarter in Detail
Abbott Labs operates through four segments, namely, Established Pharmaceuticals Division (EPD), Medical Devices, Diagnostics and Nutrition.
EPD sales were up 26.9% to $922 million including the negative impact of 8.5% due to currency fluctuations. Sales in key emerging markets climbed 10.6% on an operational basis (excluding foreign currency fluctuations) driven by growth in India, China and Russia.
We note that Abbott Labs completed the CFR Pharmaceuticals acquisition in Sep 2014, thereby more than doubling its branded generics pharmaceuticals presence in Latin America. In Dec 2014, the company completed its acquisition of Russia-based Veropharm.
The Medical Devices business generated sales of $1.4 billion, down 3.9% year over year (up 0.4% on an operational basis). Diabetes Care sales were down 9.6%. The Vascular business was down 2.5%, impacted by a decline in drug-eluting stent sales in the U.S. The Medical Optics business was down 0.9%. Cataract sales, accounting for almost 70% of total Medical Optics sales, increased in high-single digits, being partially offset by market declines in the refractive and corneal businesses.
The Nutrition business improved 6% year over year to $1.8 billion. Pediatric Nutrition sales were up 11.4% during the quarter fueled by market uptake of recently launched products. However, Adult Nutrition sales were weak in the U.S. due to a decline in performance nutrition along with dynamics in the institutional market segment.
Diagnostics business sales increased 3.2% year over year to $1.2 billion. Core Laboratory sales increased 2.5%, while Point of Care Diagnostics rose 13.6% year over year. Worldwide sales of Molecular Diagnostics were up 0.6%.
2014 Results
Abbott Labs reported total sales of $20.2 billion, up 3% from 2013. Earnings per share of $1.98 recorded an increase of 20.7% year over year.
2015 Outlook
Abbott Labs expects earnings per share in the range of $2.10 to $2.20 in 2015. The Zacks Consensus Estimate currently stands at $2.23. For the first quarter, earnings are projected in 41 to 43 cents. The Zacks Consensus Estimate of 42 cents is well within the guidance.
Our Take
Abbott Labs currently carries a Zacks Rank #4 (Sell). Unfavorable currency exchange rate movements continue to dampen results along with the decline in drug-eluting stents sales. The guidance disappointed expectations as well.
Some better-ranked stocks in the broader health care sector include Allergan ( AGN ) and AbbVie ( ABBV ). Both carry a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy).
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | Some better-ranked stocks in the broader health care sector include Allergan ( AGN ) and AbbVie ( ABBV ). Click to get this free report ABBOTT LABS (ABT): Free Stock Analysis Report ALLERGAN INC (AGN): Free Stock Analysis Report MYLAN INC (MYL): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. We note that Abbott Labs agreed to sell its developed markets generics pharmaceutical business to Mylan ( MYL ) in Jul 2014. | Click to get this free report ABBOTT LABS (ABT): Free Stock Analysis Report ALLERGAN INC (AGN): Free Stock Analysis Report MYLAN INC (MYL): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Some better-ranked stocks in the broader health care sector include Allergan ( AGN ) and AbbVie ( ABBV ). Abbott Labs generated sales of $5.4 billion in the fourth quarter of 2014, up 5.6% year over year (on a reported basis). | Click to get this free report ABBOTT LABS (ABT): Free Stock Analysis Report ALLERGAN INC (AGN): Free Stock Analysis Report MYLAN INC (MYL): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Some better-ranked stocks in the broader health care sector include Allergan ( AGN ) and AbbVie ( ABBV ). Abbott Labs generated sales of $5.4 billion in the fourth quarter of 2014, up 5.6% year over year (on a reported basis). | Some better-ranked stocks in the broader health care sector include Allergan ( AGN ) and AbbVie ( ABBV ). Click to get this free report ABBOTT LABS (ABT): Free Stock Analysis Report ALLERGAN INC (AGN): Free Stock Analysis Report MYLAN INC (MYL): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Including the discontinued operations, earnings came in at 71 cents, up 22.4% year over year. | 7888a092-819f-4b07-be8a-6fa09e078e26 |
27106.0 | 2015-01-28 00:00:00 UTC | Novartis (NVS) Up on Earnings and Revenue Beat in Q4 - Analyst Blog | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/novartis-nvs-up-on-earnings-and-revenue-beat-in-q4-analyst-blog-2015-01-28 | nan | nan | Novartis A.G . ( NVS ) reported fourth-quarter 2014 earnings of 62 cents per share, down 23% from the year-ago period. Core earnings per share came in at $1.21, up from $1.18 in the year-ago period and beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.13. Subsequently, shares went up 2.53%.
Fourth-quarter revenues increased 4% year over year (down 2% on a reported basis) to $14.6 billion and surpassed the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $14.1 billion.
All growth rates mentioned below are on a year-on-year basis and at constant exchange rates (CER).
Quarter in Detail
Following the divestiture of the diagnostics business in Jan 2014 and the agreement to sell its Vaccines business in Apr 2014, Novartis now operates in three divisions: Pharmaceuticals, Alcon and Generics (Sandoz).
The Pharmaceuticals division recorded sales of $7.9 billion in the reported quarter, flat year over year as volume growth was offset by the negative impact of generic competition primarily for Diovan monotherapy and Exforge (generic entry in the U.S. in Sep 2014 and for Exforge HCT in Dec 2014). Growth products (any product launched in the last five years or have exclusivity through 2018) - Gilenya, Afinitor, Tasigna, Galvus, Lucentis, Xolair, the chronic obstructive pulmonary disease portfolio and Jakavi - contributed 46% to total sales in the fourth quarter of 2014, compared with 39% in the year-ago quarter.
The Alcon Division recorded sales of $2.7 billion in the fourth quarter, up 7% driven by growth in Surgical and Ophthalmic Pharmaceuticals.
Sales in the Sandoz division increased 11% to $2.5 billion primarily due to volume growth, partially offset by price erosion. Sales of retail generics in the U.S. and biosimilars generated strong growth due to recent launches. Biosimilars generated sales of $132 million, up 18%.
We remind investors that in Apr 2014, Novartis announced that it will sell its Vaccines business to GlaxoSmithKline ( GSK ) for $7.1 billion. In exchange, Novartis would acquire Glaxo's oncology products. Novartis and Glaxo entered into a joint venture, combining their consumer divisions (Novartis OTC and GSK Consumer Healthcare) to form a larger consumer health care business.
Novartis also completed the divestment of its animal health division to Eli Lilly and Company ( LLY ) in Jan 2015.
2014 Results
Revenues came in at $58.0 billion, up 3% from a year ago and in line with the Zacks Consensus Estimate. Generics impacted sales by $2.4 billion. Core earnings per share came in at $5.23, up from $5.01 in 2013 and easily beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $5.19.
2015 Outlook
Novartis expects sales to grow in mid-single digits in 2015. Generics are projected to impact sales by $2.5 billion in 2015 (accounting for the recent launch of generics for Exforge in the U.S).
Pipeline Update
Novartis' pipeline progress in 2014 was impressive. Cosentyx (secukinumab) received approval in the U.S. and EU for psoriasis in Jan 2015. The FDA and European Commission approved Signifor long-acting release formulation for acromegaly.
The FDA's Oncologic Drugs Advisory Committee recommended the approval of Sandoz's experimental biosimilar filgrastim in the U.S. for use in all indications as Neupogen (reference drug).
Meanwhile, Novartis submitted the regulatory applications for LCZ696 in both the U.S. and the EU. The company is evaluating the candidate as a treatment for heart failure patients with reduced ejection fraction. The Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use granted the candidate accelerated assessment, thereby shortening the review process.
Novartis submitted regulatory applications for Seebri Breezhaler and Ultibro Breezhaler to the FDA and a tentative approval is expected by 2015-end.
However, there have been a few setbacks as well. The phase III trial on oncology drug Afinitor (BOLERO-1) in women with HER2+ advanced breast cancer failed to meet its primary objective for progression-free survival. Moreover, the phase III study INFORMS on Gilenya in primary progressive multiple sclerosis did not show a significant difference from placebo on a combination of disability measures.
Our Take
Novartis is expected to face challenging conditions in 2015. We remind investors that Diovan Mono was one of the key drugs of Novartis and the entry of generics will hit sales in 2015. Exforge and Gleevec are also facing generic competition. Sales from the eye care division Alcon is also expected to be challenged by the entry of generics. Moreover, currency headwinds will continue to negatively impact sales in 2015. Growth in emerging markets will likely be slower in 2015, given geopolitical risks and the impact of oil on some of these economies. Oncology drugs will be under pricing pressure in 2015 as new immuno-oncology therapies enter the market.
Nevertheless, we cautiously watch Novartis' efforts to realign its portfolio in order to focus on its core segments of pharmaceuticals, eye care and generics. We expect investor focus on the launch of two key drugs in 2015 - LCZ696 and Cosentyx.
Novartis, a large-cap pharma, currently carries a Zacks Rank #4 (Sell). Right now, AbbVie ( ABBV ), carrying a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy), looks favorably placed among the large-cap pharmas.
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | Right now, AbbVie ( ABBV ), carrying a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy), looks favorably placed among the large-cap pharmas. Click to get this free report LILLY ELI & CO (LLY): Free Stock Analysis Report NOVARTIS AG-ADR (NVS): Free Stock Analysis Report GLAXOSMITHKLINE (GSK): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. The phase III trial on oncology drug Afinitor (BOLERO-1) in women with HER2+ advanced breast cancer failed to meet its primary objective for progression-free survival. | Click to get this free report LILLY ELI & CO (LLY): Free Stock Analysis Report NOVARTIS AG-ADR (NVS): Free Stock Analysis Report GLAXOSMITHKLINE (GSK): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Right now, AbbVie ( ABBV ), carrying a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy), looks favorably placed among the large-cap pharmas. The Pharmaceuticals division recorded sales of $7.9 billion in the reported quarter, flat year over year as volume growth was offset by the negative impact of generic competition primarily for Diovan monotherapy and Exforge (generic entry in the U.S. in Sep 2014 and for Exforge HCT in Dec 2014). | Click to get this free report LILLY ELI & CO (LLY): Free Stock Analysis Report NOVARTIS AG-ADR (NVS): Free Stock Analysis Report GLAXOSMITHKLINE (GSK): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Right now, AbbVie ( ABBV ), carrying a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy), looks favorably placed among the large-cap pharmas. The Pharmaceuticals division recorded sales of $7.9 billion in the reported quarter, flat year over year as volume growth was offset by the negative impact of generic competition primarily for Diovan monotherapy and Exforge (generic entry in the U.S. in Sep 2014 and for Exforge HCT in Dec 2014). | Right now, AbbVie ( ABBV ), carrying a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy), looks favorably placed among the large-cap pharmas. Click to get this free report LILLY ELI & CO (LLY): Free Stock Analysis Report NOVARTIS AG-ADR (NVS): Free Stock Analysis Report GLAXOSMITHKLINE (GSK): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Novartis A.G . | 51031fee-a1fc-4319-94a9-b077ce6dd0be |
27107.0 | 2015-01-28 00:00:00 UTC | Will Abbott Labs (ABT) Disappoint on Earnings This Quarter? - Analyst Blog | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/will-abbott-labs-abt-disappoint-on-earnings-this-quarter-analyst-blog-2015-01-28 | nan | nan | Abbott Laboratories ( ABT ) is scheduled to report fourth-quarter 2014 results before the opening bell on Jan 29, 2015.
Abbott Labs' track record was impressive in the first nine months of 2014 with the company beating estimates comfortably in the last three quarters. The average earnings surprise over the last four quarters is 6.59%.
Factors to Influence 4Q Results
Abbott Labs is a diversified company with presence in diagnostics, nutrition, branded generics and medical devices, after having separated its pharmaceutical business into a new company called AbbVie ( ABBV ) in Jan 2013.
However, the adoption of austerity measures by developed markets has affected revenues over the past few quarters. Lackluster performance in the established pharmaceuticals division propelled the company to realign the segment and divest its branded generic business in developed markets.
Unfavorable currency fluctuations in both emerging and developed markets have negatively impacted sales and will continue to do so in the fourth quarter by 2.5%. Sales in 2014 are expected to drop by 2% due to the recently strengthening dollar.
Moreover, growth has dampened in the medical devices and diagnostics segments. The vascular business is particularly dismal in the U.S., due to pricing pressure, followed by Japan and Europe. A competitive environment in the drug-eluting stent business continues to negatively impact the company's quarterly sales.
In our view, these factors will impact fourth-quarter results adversely, notwithstanding Abbott Labs' positive earnings streak in the last 12 months.
What Our Model Indicates
Our proven model does not conclusively show that Abbott Labs is likely to beat earnings this quarter. That is because a stock needs to have both a positive Earnings ESP and a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), 2 (Buy) or 3 (Hold) to likely have earnings beat. That is not the case here as you will see below.
Zacks ESP : The Earnings ESP, which represents the difference between the Most Accurate estimate and the Zacks Consensus Estimate, is pegged at -1.47%. This is because the Most Accurate estimate currently stands at 67 cents while the Zacks Consensus Estimate is 68 cents.
Zacks Rank : Abbott Labs currently carries a Zacks Rank #5 (Strong Sell). We caution against stocks with Zacks Ranks #4 and #5 (Sell-rated stocks) going into the earnings announcement, especially when the company is seeing a negative estimate revision momentum.
Stocks That Warrant a Look
Here are some health care stocks that you may want to consider, as our model shows that these have the right combination of elements to post an earnings beat this quarter.
Biodel Inc. ( BIOD ) has an Earnings ESP of +33.33% and carries a Zacks Rank #1. The company is scheduled to release first-quarter fiscal 2015 results on Feb 5.
Actavis plc ( ACT ) has an earnings ESP of +4.70% and carries a Zacks Rank #3. The company is scheduled to release its fourth-quarter 2014 results on Feb 18.
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | Factors to Influence 4Q Results Abbott Labs is a diversified company with presence in diagnostics, nutrition, branded generics and medical devices, after having separated its pharmaceutical business into a new company called AbbVie ( ABBV ) in Jan 2013. Click to get this free report ABBOTT LABS (ABT): Free Stock Analysis Report BIODEL INC (BIOD): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report ACTAVIS PLC (ACT): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Lackluster performance in the established pharmaceuticals division propelled the company to realign the segment and divest its branded generic business in developed markets. | Click to get this free report ABBOTT LABS (ABT): Free Stock Analysis Report BIODEL INC (BIOD): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report ACTAVIS PLC (ACT): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Factors to Influence 4Q Results Abbott Labs is a diversified company with presence in diagnostics, nutrition, branded generics and medical devices, after having separated its pharmaceutical business into a new company called AbbVie ( ABBV ) in Jan 2013. That is because a stock needs to have both a positive Earnings ESP and a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), 2 (Buy) or 3 (Hold) to likely have earnings beat. | Factors to Influence 4Q Results Abbott Labs is a diversified company with presence in diagnostics, nutrition, branded generics and medical devices, after having separated its pharmaceutical business into a new company called AbbVie ( ABBV ) in Jan 2013. Click to get this free report ABBOTT LABS (ABT): Free Stock Analysis Report BIODEL INC (BIOD): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report ACTAVIS PLC (ACT): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. We caution against stocks with Zacks Ranks #4 and #5 (Sell-rated stocks) going into the earnings announcement, especially when the company is seeing a negative estimate revision momentum. | Factors to Influence 4Q Results Abbott Labs is a diversified company with presence in diagnostics, nutrition, branded generics and medical devices, after having separated its pharmaceutical business into a new company called AbbVie ( ABBV ) in Jan 2013. Click to get this free report ABBOTT LABS (ABT): Free Stock Analysis Report BIODEL INC (BIOD): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report ACTAVIS PLC (ACT): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. In our view, these factors will impact fourth-quarter results adversely, notwithstanding Abbott Labs' positive earnings streak in the last 12 months. | 1c71576f-6e60-4d25-b5e6-22e503333de1 |
27108.0 | 2015-01-28 00:00:00 UTC | Is AbbVie (ABBV) Set to Beat 4Q Earnings on Humira Sales? - Analyst Blog | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/abbvie-abbv-set-beat-4q-earnings-humira-sales-analyst-blog-2015-01-28 | nan | nan | AbbVie ( ABBV ), which has been in the news thanks to the recent approval of its hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment Viekira Pak, will be reporting fourth quarter and full year 2014 results on Jan 30, before the market opens.
AbbVie's performance has been pretty good in the first nine months of 2014 with the company beating expectations consistently. The average earnings surprise over the last four quarters is +6.67%.
Humira and Viekira Pak Will Be in Focus
Key drug Humira should remain the main growth driver in the fourth quarter; growing awareness, favorable clinical data, additional indications and expansion into new markets should help the product to continue contributing significantly to the top-line.
Humira should continue to witness double-digit growth in most international markets and AbbVie expects to exceed its initial guidance for the product in 2014.
Synagis, which protects at-risk infants from severe respiratory disease, is a seasonal product with a major part of sales being recorded in the first and fourth quarters of the year. Continued product uptake and strong commercial execution should keep Synagis sales strong in the fourth quarter.
Meanwhile, lipid franchise sales will continue to be impacted by generic competition.
AbbVie, which gained FDA approval for its HCV treatment in Dec 2014, will see a sequential increase in SG&A spend as the company invests in the product launch.
We expect investor focus to primarily remain on the initial response to the Viekira Pak launch as well as the company's sales expectations for 2015. AbbVie has already provided earnings guidance for 2015 ($4.25 - $4.45 per share). However, the company will refine the guidance as the HCV launch progresses. Key players in the HCV market include Gilead's ( GILD ) Sovaldi and Harvoni.
What Our Model Indicates
Our proven model shows that AbbVie is likely to beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate in the fourth quarter. That is because a stock needs to have both a positive Earnings ESP and a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) or better for increasing the odds of an earnings surprise. This is the case as elaborated below.
Zacks ESP: The Earnings ESP for AbbVie is 1.18%. This is because the Most Accurate estimate and the Zacks Consensus Estimate are 86 cents and 85 cents, respectively.
Zacks Rank: ABBV's Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) increases the predictive power of ESP.
Stocks That Warrant a Look
Here are a few health care stocks that you may want to consider, as our model shows that these have the right combination of elements to post an earnings beat this quarter.
Acorda Therapeutics, Inc. ( ACOR ) has an Earnings ESP of +200% and a Zacks Rank #3. The company is scheduled to release results on Feb 12.
The Earnings ESP for Actavis ( ACT ) is +4.7% and it carries a Zacks Rank #3. The company is scheduled to release results on Feb 18.
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | AbbVie ( ABBV ), which has been in the news thanks to the recent approval of its hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment Viekira Pak, will be reporting fourth quarter and full year 2014 results on Jan 30, before the market opens. AbbVie, which gained FDA approval for its HCV treatment in Dec 2014, will see a sequential increase in SG&A spend as the company invests in the product launch. AbbVie's performance has been pretty good in the first nine months of 2014 with the company beating expectations consistently. | AbbVie ( ABBV ), which has been in the news thanks to the recent approval of its hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment Viekira Pak, will be reporting fourth quarter and full year 2014 results on Jan 30, before the market opens. Click to get this free report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report GILEAD SCIENCES (GILD): Free Stock Analysis Report ACORDA THERAPT (ACOR): Free Stock Analysis Report ACTAVIS PLC (ACT): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. AbbVie's performance has been pretty good in the first nine months of 2014 with the company beating expectations consistently. | AbbVie ( ABBV ), which has been in the news thanks to the recent approval of its hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment Viekira Pak, will be reporting fourth quarter and full year 2014 results on Jan 30, before the market opens. Click to get this free report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report GILEAD SCIENCES (GILD): Free Stock Analysis Report ACORDA THERAPT (ACOR): Free Stock Analysis Report ACTAVIS PLC (ACT): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. AbbVie's performance has been pretty good in the first nine months of 2014 with the company beating expectations consistently. | Zacks ESP: The Earnings ESP for AbbVie is 1.18%. AbbVie ( ABBV ), which has been in the news thanks to the recent approval of its hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment Viekira Pak, will be reporting fourth quarter and full year 2014 results on Jan 30, before the market opens. AbbVie's performance has been pretty good in the first nine months of 2014 with the company beating expectations consistently. | 6c028641-f713-479f-9900-0f9ac5b480f6 |
27109.0 | 2015-01-27 00:00:00 UTC | Pfizer, Inc. Should Forget AstraZeneca and Buy This Company Instead | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/pfizer-inc-should-forget-astrazeneca-and-buy-company-instead-2015-01-27 | nan | nan | Source: Pfizer Inc via Facebook.
Pfizer Inc. 's failed bid to acquire U.K.-based AstraZeneca last year suggests that dealmakers are hard at work identifying new acquisition targets for the global drugmaker. If so, investors are right to ponder whether Pfizer's next target will be another foreign company or one located right here in the United States. To help answer that question, we asked three Motley Fool healthcare contributors to tell us what they think would be a perfect match for Pfizer.
LeoSun :Shire Pharmaceuticals , which AbbVie nearly bought for $55 billion last year, would be a great fit for Pfizer. Like AstraZeneca, Shire is based in the U.K., which makes it a good choice if Pfizer still wants to cut its tax bill through an inversion. However, recent U.S. tax law changes -- which led AbbVie to drop its bid -- diminish some of those benefits.
Shire's annual revenue only came in at less than a fifth of AstraZeneca's last year, but its top line grew while AstraZeneca's shrank. Shire's three core attention deficit hyperactive disorder ( ADHD ) drugs -- Vyvanse, Intuniv, and Adderall XR -- all posted double-digit year-over-year sales growth last quarter and together accounted for 35% of its top line. The drawback is that Intuniv and Adderall XR currently face generic competition.
The rest of Shire's portfolio is comprised of treatments for rare diseases such as Gaucher disease, Fabry disease, Hunter syndrome, and hereditary angioedema, or HAE. All of those drugs except for HAE drug Cinryze, which Shire has held for less than a year, posted double-digit year-over-year growth. Shire expanded its rare-disease portfolio by acquiring ViroPharma and NPS Pharmaceuticals , which could both offset declines in its ADHD business.
Therefore, acquiring Shire would be a smart way to strengthen Pfizer's Global Innovative Pharmaceuticals unit, which posted a 5% year-over-year sales decline in the first nine months of 2014.
Cheryl Swanson : One good possibility for Pfizer could be right in the heart of America. Chicago-based drugmaker AbbVie checks the boxes Pfizer is looking for in a number of areas.
Pfizer badly needs to shore up its crumbling drug portfolio, and AbbVie has something new and promising to offer in Viekira Pak. The hepatitis C drug scored a big win when Express Scripts , the nation's largest prescription manager, negotiated a deal that approves only AbbVie's treatment for certain hepatitis C patients, rather than competing drugs from rival Gilead Sciences.
AbbVie also has several promising late-stage pipeline candidates in oncology, any one of which could end up a successful earner for Pfizer's global oncology business. Then there's AbbVie's intestinal gel Duopa for Parkinson's disease, which just got the nod from the FDA last week. Last, but certainly not least, there's Humira, one of the best-selling drugs of all time. While the autoimmune biologic is going off patent in the U.S. next year, Humira's sales aren't going from $11 billion to zero overnight.
Let's suppose Pfizer does go after AbbVie. Will AbbVie come easily? Not a chance. Rumor has it that now that AbbVie has dumped Shire, it's back on the acquisition trail itself.
George Budwell : Pfizer has one of the most diverse pipelines in biopharma, with a whopping 83 clinical candidates at present. Aside from its breast cancer candidate palbociclib and high cholesterol treatment bococizumab, though, its pipeline is strangely devoid of potential blockbusters.
An easy way to remedy this problem, in my opinion, is for the pharma giant to buy the antisense drugmaker Isis Pharmaceuticals . Isis has perhaps one of the best clinical pipelines in the business, sporting 29 drugs in development, with another seven expected to enter trials this year.
But what sets Isis apart from its rivals is the number of blockbuster candidates in its pipeline, which has attracted a number of top-notch collaborators, such as AstraZeneca, GlaxoSmithKline , and Biogen Idec , just to name a few. For instance, one of the company's most closely watched experimental treatments for high triglycerides, dubbed "ISIS-APOCIIIRx," has been shown in two independent studies to significantly lower the risk of heart disease. Experts have thus estimated that this single drug could see peak sales of around $2 billion as a result of these stellar clinical results. And Isis has several drugs under development with similar eye-popping value propositions.
With a market cap of only $8.2 billion and multiple blockbuster candidates in tow, Isis looks like a huge bargain compared with the behemoth AstraZeneca, making it a top buyout target this year.
This coming blockbuster will make every biotech jealous
The best biotech investors consistently reap gigantic profits by recognizing true potential earlier and more accurately than anyone else. Let me cut right to the chase. There is a product in development that could revolutionize not just how we treat a common chronic illness, but potentially the entire health industry. Analysts are already licking their chops at the sales potential. If you hope to outsmart Wall Street and realize multi-bagger returns you will need to get in early -- check out The Motley Fool's new free report on the dream-team responsible for this game-changing blockbuster. CLICK HERE NOW .
The article Pfizer, Inc. Should Forget AstraZeneca and Buy This Company Instead originally appeared on Fool.com.
Cheryl Swanson owns shares of Gilead Sciences. George Budwell owns shares of AbbVie Inc., Gilead Sciences, Isis Pharmaceuticals, and NPS Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Leo Sun owns shares of GlaxoSmithKline and Pfizer. The Motley Fool recommends Express Scripts, Gilead Sciences, GlaxoSmithKline, and Isis Pharmaceuticals. The Motley Fool owns shares of Express Scripts and Gilead Sciences. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days . We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy .
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | LeoSun :Shire Pharmaceuticals , which AbbVie nearly bought for $55 billion last year, would be a great fit for Pfizer. However, recent U.S. tax law changes -- which led AbbVie to drop its bid -- diminish some of those benefits. Chicago-based drugmaker AbbVie checks the boxes Pfizer is looking for in a number of areas. | George Budwell owns shares of AbbVie Inc., Gilead Sciences, Isis Pharmaceuticals, and NPS Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Leo Sun owns shares of GlaxoSmithKline and Pfizer. LeoSun :Shire Pharmaceuticals , which AbbVie nearly bought for $55 billion last year, would be a great fit for Pfizer. However, recent U.S. tax law changes -- which led AbbVie to drop its bid -- diminish some of those benefits. | LeoSun :Shire Pharmaceuticals , which AbbVie nearly bought for $55 billion last year, would be a great fit for Pfizer. The hepatitis C drug scored a big win when Express Scripts , the nation's largest prescription manager, negotiated a deal that approves only AbbVie's treatment for certain hepatitis C patients, rather than competing drugs from rival Gilead Sciences. George Budwell owns shares of AbbVie Inc., Gilead Sciences, Isis Pharmaceuticals, and NPS Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Leo Sun owns shares of GlaxoSmithKline and Pfizer. | LeoSun :Shire Pharmaceuticals , which AbbVie nearly bought for $55 billion last year, would be a great fit for Pfizer. However, recent U.S. tax law changes -- which led AbbVie to drop its bid -- diminish some of those benefits. Chicago-based drugmaker AbbVie checks the boxes Pfizer is looking for in a number of areas. | 6329c406-41fe-4075-aa4c-064d4309368b |
27110.0 | 2015-01-27 00:00:00 UTC | Pfizer Beats on Q4 Earnings, Guides Below Expectations - Analyst Blog | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/pfizer-beats-q4-earnings-guides-below-expectations-analyst-blog-2015-01-27 | nan | nan | Pfizer Inc. ( PFE ) posted fourth quarter 2014 earnings of 54 cents per share, a penny above the Zacks Consensus Estimate but 4% below the year-ago earnings. Revenues, which declined 3% to $13.1 billion, were above the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $12.9 billion.
Pfizer Inc. - Quarterly EPS | FindTheBest
Full year earnings grew 2% to $2.26 per share. Revenues declined 4% from the year-ago period to $49.6 billion.
The Quarter in Detail
While foreign exchange rates cut Pfizer's fourth quarter revenues by 3% ($449 million), operational growth was negligible ($9 million). International revenues declined 5% to $8.1 billion. Meanwhile, U.S. revenues declined 1% to $5 billion.
Although the Global Established Pharmaceutical (GEP) segment recorded a decline in revenues again in the fourth quarter, the Global Innovative Pharmaceutical (GIP), Global Oncology, Global Vaccines and Consumer Healthcare segments recorded growth.
The GEP segment recorded an 11% decline in revenues, which came in at $6.4 billion. Factors like the presence of generic competition for Detrol LA in the U.S. and Aricept in Canada and the termination of the Spiriva collaboration in most countries led to the decline in addition to the entry of generic competition for Celebrex. Celebrex revenues plunged 44% in the U.S. However, Lyrica continued to perform well with total sales coming in at $1.4 billion, up 10%.
GIP segment revenues grew 3% to $3.7 billion reflecting the performance of Lyrica in the U.S. and Japan, Xeljanz in the U.S. and Eliquis across the world. This was partially offset by the end of the Enbrel co-promotion agreement.
Consumer Healthcare revenues increased 1% to $953 million. Revenues benefited from the May 2014 launch of Nexium 24HR.
Global Oncology revenues increased 10% to $609 million with performance being driven by Xalkori across the world and Inlyta in most markets. Sutent fared well in the U.S. and emerging markets.
Global Vaccine revenues grew 18% to $1.3 billion. Prevnar 13 was positively impacted by increased uptake among adults thanks to the positive recommendation from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices for use in adults aged 65 and over. This was partially offset by lower revenues from the pediatric indication due to the timing of government purchases compared to the year-ago quarter.
Selling, informational and administrative (SI&A) expenses declined 4% to $3.9 billion during the quarter. R&D expenses increased 14% to $2 billion.
Guidance Falls Short of Expectations
Pfizer expects 2015 earnings of $2.00 - $2.10 per share on revenues of $44.5 billion - $46.5 billion. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for earnings and revenues is currently $2.19 per share and $47.1 billion, respectively.
The company expects loss of exclusivities and unfavorable currency movement to impact revenues by about $3.5 billion and $2.8 billion, respectively. Unfavorable currency movement is expected to impact the bottom line by about 17 cents.
Pfizer expects SI&A spend of $12.8 billion to $13.8 billion and R&D spend of $6.9 billion to $7.4 billion.
Our Take
Although Pfizer's fourth quarter results were better-than-expected with the company beating on both earnings and revenues despite the presence of generic competition and unfavorable currency movement, the company's guidance for 2015 fell well short of expectations.
We believe genericization, unfavorable currency movement and the expiration of a few co-promotion agreements will continue to hamper top-line growth. However, cost-cutting efforts and share buybacks should help Pfizer achieve its earnings guidance.
Pfizer is a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) stock. Some better-ranked stocks in the health care sector include Celgene Corp. ( CELG ), Amgen ( AMGN ), and AbbVie ( ABBV ). While Celgene is a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) stock, Amgen and AbbVie hold a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy).
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | Some better-ranked stocks in the health care sector include Celgene Corp. ( CELG ), Amgen ( AMGN ), and AbbVie ( ABBV ). While Celgene is a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) stock, Amgen and AbbVie hold a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). Click to get this free report PFIZER INC (PFE): Free Stock Analysis Report CELGENE CORP (CELG): Free Stock Analysis Report AMGEN INC (AMGN): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. | While Celgene is a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) stock, Amgen and AbbVie hold a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). Click to get this free report PFIZER INC (PFE): Free Stock Analysis Report CELGENE CORP (CELG): Free Stock Analysis Report AMGEN INC (AMGN): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Some better-ranked stocks in the health care sector include Celgene Corp. ( CELG ), Amgen ( AMGN ), and AbbVie ( ABBV ). | Click to get this free report PFIZER INC (PFE): Free Stock Analysis Report CELGENE CORP (CELG): Free Stock Analysis Report AMGEN INC (AMGN): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Some better-ranked stocks in the health care sector include Celgene Corp. ( CELG ), Amgen ( AMGN ), and AbbVie ( ABBV ). While Celgene is a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) stock, Amgen and AbbVie hold a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). | Some better-ranked stocks in the health care sector include Celgene Corp. ( CELG ), Amgen ( AMGN ), and AbbVie ( ABBV ). While Celgene is a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) stock, Amgen and AbbVie hold a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). Click to get this free report PFIZER INC (PFE): Free Stock Analysis Report CELGENE CORP (CELG): Free Stock Analysis Report AMGEN INC (AMGN): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. | 646cf7bf-2007-4d6f-bcc1-4a6687d831bb |
27111.0 | 2015-01-27 00:00:00 UTC | Can St. Jude Medical (STJ) Keep Earnings Streak Alive? - Analyst Blog | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/can-st.-jude-medical-stj-keep-earnings-streak-alive-analyst-blog-2015-01-27 | nan | nan | Global medical devices company, St. Jude Medical, Inc. ( STJ ), is scheduled to report fourth-quarter and full-year 2014 financial numbers on Jan 28, before the opening bell.
Last quarter, the company reported earnings of 97 cents per share, which beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate by a penny. In fact, in all the past four quarters, St. Jude Medical's earnings have outpaced the Zacks Consensus Estimate with an average beat of 1.81%.
Let's see how things are shaping up for this announcement.
Why a Likely Positive Surprise?
Our proven model shows that St. Jude Medical is likely to beat earnings because it has the right combination of two key ingredients.
Zacks ESP: St. Jude Medical has a positive Earnings ESP of +0.97%.That is because the Most Accurate estimate stands at $1.04 while the Zacks Consensus Estimate is pegged lower at $1.03. This is a very meaningful and leading indicator of a likely positive earnings surprise.
Zacks Rank: St. Jude Medical has a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). Note that stocks with a Zacks Rank #1, 2 or 3 have a significantly higher chance of beating earnings estimates. Conversely, Sell-rated stocks (Zacks Rank #4 or 5) should never be considered going into an earnings announcement.
The combination of St. Jude Medical's Zacks Rank #3 and +0.97% ESP makes us confident of an earnings beat.
What's Driving the Better-Than-Expected Earnings?
St. Jude Medical's recently released preliminary fourth-quarter 2014 results reflect strong momentum at the company's CardioMEMS technology and Atrial Fibrillation businesses. We also note that most of the segments are expected to report within or above the company's previously issued guidance, which is a positive in our view.
St. Jude Medical estimates fourth-quarter revenues to grow 1% year over year to around $1.44 billion, which is in line with the current Zacks Consensus Estimate. Additionally, the company has reaffirmed its fourth-quarter adjusted earnings guidance in the previously issued range of $1.02-$1.04 per share. The current Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.03 lies within the guided range.
We believe that strong momentum at the company's CardioMEMS technology and Atrial Fibrillation businesses, an expanding and innovative product portfolio and aggressive share buyback programs are expected to lead to a positive earnings surprise in the to-be-reported quarter.
However, we note that the company's top line will be considerably hurt from recent foreign currency movements. This St. Paul, MN-based company derives more than half of its revenues from international operations, primarily in Europe and Japan. The strong U.S. dollar against Japanese yen and some other Latin American currencies will continue to impede sales growth.
Other Stocks to Consider
St. Jude Medical is not the only company looking up this earnings season. We also see likely earnings beats coming from these three industry players:
AbbVie ( ABBV ) with an Earnings ESP of +1.18% and a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy).
Hologic ( HOLX ) with an Earnings ESP of +2.78% and a Zacks Rank #2.
Intersect ENT ( XENT ) with an Earnings ESP of +11.11% and a Zacks Rank #2.
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | We also see likely earnings beats coming from these three industry players: AbbVie ( ABBV ) with an Earnings ESP of +1.18% and a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). Click to get this free report ST JUDE MEDICAL (STJ): Free Stock Analysis Report HOLOGIC INC (HOLX): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report INTERSECT ENT (XENT): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. In fact, in all the past four quarters, St. Jude Medical's earnings have outpaced the Zacks Consensus Estimate with an average beat of 1.81%. | Click to get this free report ST JUDE MEDICAL (STJ): Free Stock Analysis Report HOLOGIC INC (HOLX): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report INTERSECT ENT (XENT): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. We also see likely earnings beats coming from these three industry players: AbbVie ( ABBV ) with an Earnings ESP of +1.18% and a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). St. Jude Medical's recently released preliminary fourth-quarter 2014 results reflect strong momentum at the company's CardioMEMS technology and Atrial Fibrillation businesses. | Click to get this free report ST JUDE MEDICAL (STJ): Free Stock Analysis Report HOLOGIC INC (HOLX): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report INTERSECT ENT (XENT): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. We also see likely earnings beats coming from these three industry players: AbbVie ( ABBV ) with an Earnings ESP of +1.18% and a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). Zacks ESP: St. Jude Medical has a positive Earnings ESP of +0.97%.That is because the Most Accurate estimate stands at $1.04 while the Zacks Consensus Estimate is pegged lower at $1.03. | We also see likely earnings beats coming from these three industry players: AbbVie ( ABBV ) with an Earnings ESP of +1.18% and a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). Click to get this free report ST JUDE MEDICAL (STJ): Free Stock Analysis Report HOLOGIC INC (HOLX): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report INTERSECT ENT (XENT): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Zacks ESP: St. Jude Medical has a positive Earnings ESP of +0.97%.That is because the Most Accurate estimate stands at $1.04 while the Zacks Consensus Estimate is pegged lower at $1.03. | 6ce09176-1d1e-4401-baea-6eab9484156d |
27112.0 | 2015-01-27 00:00:00 UTC | Will Biogen (BIIB) Surpass Q4 Earnings Expectations? - Analyst Blog | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/will-biogen-biib-surpass-q4-earnings-expectations-analyst-blog-2015-01-27 | nan | nan | Biogen Idec ( BIIB ), a strong player in the multiple sclerosis (MS) market, will be reporting fourth quarter and full year 2014 results on Jan 29, after the market closes.
Biogen's performance has been mixed in the first nine months of 2014 with the company beating expectations in the last two quarters and missing in the first quarter. The average earnings surprise over the last four quarters is +10.56%.
Will Tecfidera Sales be Impacted by PML Case?
Key focus this quarter will be on the impact of the confirmation of a case of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) in a patient on Tecfidera, the company's oral MS treatment. PML (a rare, serious progressive neurologic disease which is often fatal) is a dreaded word where MS treatments are concerned and Biogen already has a history with PML with one of its MS drugs, Tysabri.
Tysabri was withdrawn from the market in 2005 following confirmed cases of PML. However, it was back on the market in 2006 with stricter monitoring plans and went on to bring in significant revenues.
Tecfidera scrips are not expected to be significantly impacted by the PML case. With one case being reported out of more than 100,000 patients, patients may be willing to overlook safety concerns given Tecfidera's impressive efficacy.
Investor focus will remain primarily on the company's guidance for 2015 as well as management's comments regarding the impact of the PML case.
What Our Model Indicates
Our proven model does not conclusively show that Biogen is likely to beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate in the fourth quarter. That is because a stock needs to have both a positive Earnings ESP and a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) or better for increasing the odds of an earnings surprise. Unfortunately, this is not the case as elaborated below.
Zacks ESP: The Earnings ESP for Biogen is 0.00%. This is because both the Most Accurate estimate and the Zacks Consensus Estimate are $3.74 per share.
Zacks Rank: BIIB's Zacks Rank #3 increases the predictive power of ESP. But we also need to have a positive ESP to be confident of an earnings surprise call.
Stocks That Warrant a Look
Here are a few health care stocks that you may want to consider, as our model shows that these have the right combination of elements to post an earnings beat this quarter.
AbbVie ( ABBV ) has an Earnings ESP of +1.18% and carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). It is scheduled to report results on Jan 30.
Acorda Therapeutics, Inc. ( ACOR ) has an Earnings ESP of +200% and a Zacks Rank #3. The company is scheduled to release results on Feb 12.
The Earnings ESP for Actavis ( ACT ) is +4.7% and it carries a Zacks Rank #3. The company is scheduled to release results on Feb 18.
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | AbbVie ( ABBV ) has an Earnings ESP of +1.18% and carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). Click to get this free report ACORDA THERAPT (ACOR): Free Stock Analysis Report BIOGEN IDEC INC (BIIB): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report ACTAVIS PLC (ACT): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Key focus this quarter will be on the impact of the confirmation of a case of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) in a patient on Tecfidera, the company's oral MS treatment. | Click to get this free report ACORDA THERAPT (ACOR): Free Stock Analysis Report BIOGEN IDEC INC (BIIB): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report ACTAVIS PLC (ACT): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. AbbVie ( ABBV ) has an Earnings ESP of +1.18% and carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). Zacks Rank: BIIB's Zacks Rank #3 increases the predictive power of ESP. | Click to get this free report ACORDA THERAPT (ACOR): Free Stock Analysis Report BIOGEN IDEC INC (BIIB): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report ACTAVIS PLC (ACT): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. AbbVie ( ABBV ) has an Earnings ESP of +1.18% and carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). Key focus this quarter will be on the impact of the confirmation of a case of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) in a patient on Tecfidera, the company's oral MS treatment. | AbbVie ( ABBV ) has an Earnings ESP of +1.18% and carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). Click to get this free report ACORDA THERAPT (ACOR): Free Stock Analysis Report BIOGEN IDEC INC (BIIB): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report ACTAVIS PLC (ACT): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Key focus this quarter will be on the impact of the confirmation of a case of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) in a patient on Tecfidera, the company's oral MS treatment. | e95a8bc8-0b40-4eb7-9c14-6df4c53612a5 |
27113.0 | 2015-01-27 00:00:00 UTC | Will Vertex (VRTX) Surprise with a Lower Loss in Q4? - Analyst Blog | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/will-vertex-vrtx-surprise-lower-loss-q4-analyst-blog-2015-01-27 | nan | nan | Biotech company, Vertex Pharmaceuticals ( VRTX ), will be reporting fourth quarter and full year 2014 results on Jan 28, after the market closes.
Vertex's track record has not been good in the first nine months of 2014 with the company posting a wider-than-expected loss in two of the last three quarters. The average earnings surprise over the last four quarters is -11%.
Kalydeco Q4 Revenues to Decline Sequentially?
Vertex, which had a strong presence in the hepatitis C virus (HCV) market earlier, is now entirely focused on the cystic fibrosis (CF) market. The company's flagship product, Kalydeco, a cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulatory (CFTR) potentiator, is approved for the treatment of CF in patients ≥6 years who have one of the following mutations in the CFTR gene - G551D, G1244E, G1349D, G178R, G551S, S1251N, S1255P, S549N, or S549R. Kalydeco is also approved for the R117H mutation in the U.S.
Kalydeco sales are expected to come in at $460 million in 2014 with fourth quarter sales of about $120 million. The sequential decline in fourth quarter Kalydeco revenues reflects the impact of some inventory stocking in the third quarter as well as delayed access to patients in Australia (an issue that has since been resolved).
Vertex has already provided its outlook for 2015 when Kalydeco revenues are expected to increase to $560 - $580 million. R&D and SG&A expenses will also go up as the company gears up for the potential launch of its Kalydeco-lumacaftor combination (FDA action date: Jul 5) and a phase III program evaluating VX-661+Kalydeco.
Vertex, which started 2014 with more than 2,200 people eligible for Kalydeco in North America, Europe and Australia, ended the year with more than 3,100 people eligible for the same. This number is expected to go up to 3,700 in 2015 as the company continues to work on expanding the label.
What Our Model Indicates
Our proven model shows that Vertex is likely to beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate in the fourth quarter. That is because a stock needs to have both a positive Earnings ESP and a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) or better for increasing the odds of an earnings surprise. This is the case as elaborated below.
Zacks ESP: The Earnings ESP for Vertex is +3.28%. This is because the Most Accurate estimate and the Zacks Consensus Estimate are a loss of 59 cents and 61 cents per share, respectively.
Zacks Rank: VRTX's Zacks Rank #3 increases the predictive power of ESP.
Stocks That Warrant a Look
Here are a few health care stocks that you may want to consider, as our model shows that these have the right combination of elements to post an earnings beat this quarter.
AbbVie ( ABBV ) has an Earnings ESP of +1.18% and carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). It is scheduled to report results on Jan 30.
Acorda Therapeutics, Inc. ( ACOR ) has an Earnings ESP of +200% and a Zacks Rank #3. The company is scheduled to release results on Feb 12.
The Earnings ESP for Actavis ( ACT ) is +4.7% and it carries a Zacks Rank #3. The company is scheduled to release results on Feb 18.
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | AbbVie ( ABBV ) has an Earnings ESP of +1.18% and carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). Click to get this free report VERTEX PHARM (VRTX): Free Stock Analysis Report ACORDA THERAPT (ACOR): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report ACTAVIS PLC (ACT): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Biotech company, Vertex Pharmaceuticals ( VRTX ), will be reporting fourth quarter and full year 2014 results on Jan 28, after the market closes. | Click to get this free report VERTEX PHARM (VRTX): Free Stock Analysis Report ACORDA THERAPT (ACOR): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report ACTAVIS PLC (ACT): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. AbbVie ( ABBV ) has an Earnings ESP of +1.18% and carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). The sequential decline in fourth quarter Kalydeco revenues reflects the impact of some inventory stocking in the third quarter as well as delayed access to patients in Australia (an issue that has since been resolved). | Click to get this free report VERTEX PHARM (VRTX): Free Stock Analysis Report ACORDA THERAPT (ACOR): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report ACTAVIS PLC (ACT): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. AbbVie ( ABBV ) has an Earnings ESP of +1.18% and carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). Biotech company, Vertex Pharmaceuticals ( VRTX ), will be reporting fourth quarter and full year 2014 results on Jan 28, after the market closes. | AbbVie ( ABBV ) has an Earnings ESP of +1.18% and carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). Click to get this free report VERTEX PHARM (VRTX): Free Stock Analysis Report ACORDA THERAPT (ACOR): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report ACTAVIS PLC (ACT): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Biotech company, Vertex Pharmaceuticals ( VRTX ), will be reporting fourth quarter and full year 2014 results on Jan 28, after the market closes. | 10eb5115-d91e-4bb4-b105-2f9e10bbe799 |
27114.0 | 2015-01-27 00:00:00 UTC | Will Cardinal Health (CAH) Surprise Earnings This Season? - Analyst Blog | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/will-cardinal-health-cah-surprise-earnings-this-season-analyst-blog-2015-01-27 | nan | nan | Cardinal Health, Inc. ( CAH ) is slated to report second-quarter fiscal 2015 results before the opening bell on Jan 29. In the last reported quarter, this Dublin, OH-based company recorded a positive earnings surprise of 3.09% while the average earnings surprise over the past four quarters is 3.75%.
Let's see how things are shaping up for this announcement.
Factors to Consider
In our opinion, this healthcare services company is banking on strategic buyouts, joint ventures and supply agreements to drive growth in the coming quarters. We believe that the Red Oak sourcing venture with CVS Health Corp. presents a significant growth opportunity.
Meanwhile, Cardinal Health has completed the acquisitions of Innovative Therapies and Emerge Medical in the last quarter which are expected to prove accretive. In a separate development, Cardinal Health and Henry Schein ( HSIC ) have announced the signing of a new agreement under which the latter will purchase Cardinal Health's medical supplies for physician practices. The collaboration is expected to drive core sales for both the distributors.
Moreover, we believe that Cardinal Health's innovative product line will continue to drive top-line growth. New and existing customers as well as continued growth in China are added positives.
However, the company's over-dependence on CVS Health for revenues is a deterrent, in our opinion. Furthermore, Cardinal Health faces stiff competition from peers in each of its business segments, which is a major headwind.
Earnings Whispers
Our proven model does not conclusively show that Cardinal Health is likely to beat earnings this quarter as it does not have the right combination of two key ingredients. A stock needs to have both a positive Earnings ESP and a Zacks Rank #1, 2 or 3 for this to happen. That is not the case here as you will see below.
Zacks ESP: Cardinal Health has a -0.90% ESP. That is because the Most Accurate estimate stands at $1.10 per share, which is lower than the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.11.
Zacks Rank: Cardinal Health carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) which increases the predictive power of ESP; but when combined with an ESP of -0.90%, it makes surprise prediction difficult.
We caution against stocks with a Zacks Rank #4 and 5 (Sell-rated stocks) going into the earnings announcement, especially when the company is seeing negative estimate revisions.
Stocks to Consider
Here are some companies you may want to consider as our model shows these have the right combination of elements to post an earnings beat:
AbbVie ( ABBV ) with an Earnings ESP of +1.18% and a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy).
Hologic ( HOLX ) with an Earnings ESP of +2.78% and a Zacks Rank #2.
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | Stocks to Consider Here are some companies you may want to consider as our model shows these have the right combination of elements to post an earnings beat: AbbVie ( ABBV ) with an Earnings ESP of +1.18% and a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). Click to get this free report CARDINAL HEALTH (CAH): Free Stock Analysis Report HOLOGIC INC (HOLX): Free Stock Analysis Report HENRY SCHEIN IN (HSIC): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Cardinal Health, Inc. ( CAH ) is slated to report second-quarter fiscal 2015 results before the opening bell on Jan 29. | Stocks to Consider Here are some companies you may want to consider as our model shows these have the right combination of elements to post an earnings beat: AbbVie ( ABBV ) with an Earnings ESP of +1.18% and a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). Click to get this free report CARDINAL HEALTH (CAH): Free Stock Analysis Report HOLOGIC INC (HOLX): Free Stock Analysis Report HENRY SCHEIN IN (HSIC): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Zacks Rank: Cardinal Health carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) which increases the predictive power of ESP; but when combined with an ESP of -0.90%, it makes surprise prediction difficult. | Stocks to Consider Here are some companies you may want to consider as our model shows these have the right combination of elements to post an earnings beat: AbbVie ( ABBV ) with an Earnings ESP of +1.18% and a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). Click to get this free report CARDINAL HEALTH (CAH): Free Stock Analysis Report HOLOGIC INC (HOLX): Free Stock Analysis Report HENRY SCHEIN IN (HSIC): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Zacks Rank: Cardinal Health carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) which increases the predictive power of ESP; but when combined with an ESP of -0.90%, it makes surprise prediction difficult. | Stocks to Consider Here are some companies you may want to consider as our model shows these have the right combination of elements to post an earnings beat: AbbVie ( ABBV ) with an Earnings ESP of +1.18% and a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). Click to get this free report CARDINAL HEALTH (CAH): Free Stock Analysis Report HOLOGIC INC (HOLX): Free Stock Analysis Report HENRY SCHEIN IN (HSIC): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. A stock needs to have both a positive Earnings ESP and a Zacks Rank #1, 2 or 3 for this to happen. | 4a9565cc-1be5-43b1-87fb-52b57de88f03 |
27115.0 | 2015-01-27 00:00:00 UTC | Will Baxter International (BAX) Disappoint Earnings in Q4? - Analyst Blog | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/will-baxter-international-bax-disappoint-earnings-in-q4-analyst-blog-2015-01-27 | nan | nan | Baxter International Inc. ( BAX ) is set to report fourth-quarter 2014 results on Jan 29. Last quarter, Baxter reported earnings of $1.31 per share, which was in line with the Zacks Consensus Estimate.
Let's see how things are shaping up for this quarter.
Factors at Play
Baxter boasts a strong product portfolio for the treatment of Hemophilia A. The company continues to expand its product portfolio by winning approvals for new drugs and products.
In Sep 2014, Baxter won two FDA approvals for HYQVIA and RIXUBIS. Notably, HYQVIA is a subcutaneous treatment for adult patients with primary immunodeficiency, while RIXUBIS is used for routine prophylactic treatment, control and prevention of bleeding episodes in children with Hemophilia B.
Baxter's OBIZUR drug was approved by the FDA in October for treating bleeding episodes in adults with acquired Hemophilia A. In early December, Baxter filed a biologics license application (BLA) with the FDA for the approval of BAX 855. Developed in partnership with Nektar Therapeutics ( NKTR ), BAX 855 is an extended half-life, recombinant factor VIII (rFVIII) protein used for the treatment of hemophilia A.
The company recently filed a BLA with the FDA for the approval of BAX 111 - an investigational drug for the treatment of patients with von Willebrand disease (VWD). If approved, BAX 111 will be the first recombinant treatment in clinical development for VWD, the most common type of inherited bleeding disorder.
Although an innovative product pipeline is the key growth catalyst for Baxter, the impending split will remain an overhang. Further, higher operating expenses will continue to hurt profits at least over the next 12 months. Intense competition in the hemophilia franchise and lackluster hospital spending are other major concerns.
Earnings Whispers?
Our proven model does not conclusively show that Baxter is likely to beat earnings this quarter. That is because a stock needs to have both a positive Earnings ESP and a Zacks Rank #1, 2 or 3 for this to happen. That is not the case here as you will see below.
Zacks ESP : Baxter has a -0.76% ESP. That is because the Most Accurate estimate stands at $1.30 per share, lower than the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.31.
Zacks Rank : Baxter has a Zacks Rank #4 (Sell).
We caution against stocks with Zacks Rank #4 and 5 (Sell-rated stocks) going into the earnings announcement, especially when the company is seeing negative estimate revision momentum.
Stocks to Consider
Here are a few stocks worth considering that, per our model, have the right combination of elements to post an earnings beat this quarter:
AbbVie ( ABBV ) with an Earnings ESP of +1.18% and a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy).
Hologic ( HOLX ) with an Earnings ESP of +2.78% and a Zacks Rank #2.
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | Stocks to Consider Here are a few stocks worth considering that, per our model, have the right combination of elements to post an earnings beat this quarter: AbbVie ( ABBV ) with an Earnings ESP of +1.18% and a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). Click to get this free report BAXTER INTL (BAX): Free Stock Analysis Report HOLOGIC INC (HOLX): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report NEKTAR THERAP (NKTR): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Notably, HYQVIA is a subcutaneous treatment for adult patients with primary immunodeficiency, while RIXUBIS is used for routine prophylactic treatment, control and prevention of bleeding episodes in children with Hemophilia B. Baxter's OBIZUR drug was approved by the FDA in October for treating bleeding episodes in adults with acquired Hemophilia A. | Stocks to Consider Here are a few stocks worth considering that, per our model, have the right combination of elements to post an earnings beat this quarter: AbbVie ( ABBV ) with an Earnings ESP of +1.18% and a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). Click to get this free report BAXTER INTL (BAX): Free Stock Analysis Report HOLOGIC INC (HOLX): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report NEKTAR THERAP (NKTR): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Zacks Investment Research The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | Stocks to Consider Here are a few stocks worth considering that, per our model, have the right combination of elements to post an earnings beat this quarter: AbbVie ( ABBV ) with an Earnings ESP of +1.18% and a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). Click to get this free report BAXTER INTL (BAX): Free Stock Analysis Report HOLOGIC INC (HOLX): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report NEKTAR THERAP (NKTR): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Notably, HYQVIA is a subcutaneous treatment for adult patients with primary immunodeficiency, while RIXUBIS is used for routine prophylactic treatment, control and prevention of bleeding episodes in children with Hemophilia B. Baxter's OBIZUR drug was approved by the FDA in October for treating bleeding episodes in adults with acquired Hemophilia A. | Stocks to Consider Here are a few stocks worth considering that, per our model, have the right combination of elements to post an earnings beat this quarter: AbbVie ( ABBV ) with an Earnings ESP of +1.18% and a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). Click to get this free report BAXTER INTL (BAX): Free Stock Analysis Report HOLOGIC INC (HOLX): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report NEKTAR THERAP (NKTR): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Last quarter, Baxter reported earnings of $1.31 per share, which was in line with the Zacks Consensus Estimate. | 3fbbc6db-d52e-451c-8d68-4895e8f40a43 |
27116.0 | 2015-01-27 00:00:00 UTC | Will Alexion's (ALXN) Soliris Drive Q4 Earnings Beat? - Analyst Blog | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/will-alexions-alxn-soliris-drive-q4-earnings-beat-analyst-blog-2015-01-27 | nan | nan | Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Inc. ( ALXN ) is scheduled to report its fourth-quarter 2014 results on Jan 29, before the opening bell.
In the last quarter, Alexion delivered a positive 8.57% earnings surprise. Let's see how things are shaping up for this announcement.
Soliris Could Drive Q4 Results
Soliris, Alexion's sole marketed product, is expected to continue performing well for its approved indications - paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria and atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome - thereby driving top-line growth. The company is expected to add new patients in the U.S., Europe and Japan.
Increased operating costs will however hurt the bottom line in the fourth quarter. While research & development costs are expected to increase due to the company's efforts to develop its pipeline, selling, general and administrative expenses should increase due to Alexion's efforts to expand. Meanwhile, foreign exchange headwinds are also expected to increase in the fourth quarter.
Though increased operating costs are expected to hurt Alexion's bottom line in the fourth quarter, the long-term growth prospects are encouraging. The successful development and subsequent commercialization of the pipeline will not only boost the company's top line but also reduce its dependence on a single product for growth.
At the time of releasing third quarter results, Alexion increased its guidance for 2014 both on the top and the bottom line. The company expects adjusted earnings per share in the range of $5.15 to $5.20 on revenues of $2.220 billion to $2.225 billion.
We believe that investor focus will remain on updates on the performance of Soliris. Investors are also looking forward to the company's outlook for 2015, which is expected to be revealed along with the earnings release.
Earnings Whispers?
Our proven model does not conclusively show that Alexion is likely to beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate in the fourth quarter. That is because a stock needs to have both a positive Earnings ESP and a Zacks Rank of #1, 2 or 3 for this to happen. Unfortunately, this is not the case here, as elaborated below.
Zacks ESP: Earnings ESP for Alexion is 0.00%. This is because both the Most Accurate estimate and the Zacks Consensus Estimate stand at $1.17 per share.
Zacks Rank: Alexion's Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) increases the predictive power of the ESP. However, we need to have a positive ESP to be confident of an earnings beat.
We caution against stocks with Zacks Ranks #4 and 5 (Sell-rated stocks) going into the earnings announcement, especially when the company is seeing negative estimate revisions.
Stocks That Warrant a Look
Here are some health care stocks that you may want to consider, as our model shows that these have the right combination of elements to post an earnings beat this quarter.
The earnings ESP for Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc. ( REGN ) is +8.65% and it carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). The company is scheduled to release its fourth quarter results on Feb 10.
Actavis ( ACT ) has an earnings ESP of +4.7% and carries a Zacks Rank #3. It is expected to report fourth-quarter results on Feb 18.
AbbVie Inc. ( ABBV ) has an earnings ESP of +1.18% and carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). It is scheduled to report fourth-quarter results on Jan 30.
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | AbbVie Inc. ( ABBV ) has an earnings ESP of +1.18% and carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). Click to get this free report ALEXION PHARMA (ALXN): Free Stock Analysis Report REGENERON PHARM (REGN): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report ACTAVIS PLC (ACT): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Though increased operating costs are expected to hurt Alexion's bottom line in the fourth quarter, the long-term growth prospects are encouraging. | Click to get this free report ALEXION PHARMA (ALXN): Free Stock Analysis Report REGENERON PHARM (REGN): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report ACTAVIS PLC (ACT): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. AbbVie Inc. ( ABBV ) has an earnings ESP of +1.18% and carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). While research & development costs are expected to increase due to the company's efforts to develop its pipeline, selling, general and administrative expenses should increase due to Alexion's efforts to expand. | Click to get this free report ALEXION PHARMA (ALXN): Free Stock Analysis Report REGENERON PHARM (REGN): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report ACTAVIS PLC (ACT): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. AbbVie Inc. ( ABBV ) has an earnings ESP of +1.18% and carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). Zacks Rank: Alexion's Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) increases the predictive power of the ESP. | AbbVie Inc. ( ABBV ) has an earnings ESP of +1.18% and carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). Click to get this free report ALEXION PHARMA (ALXN): Free Stock Analysis Report REGENERON PHARM (REGN): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report ACTAVIS PLC (ACT): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. That is because a stock needs to have both a positive Earnings ESP and a Zacks Rank of #1, 2 or 3 for this to happen. | 7b541955-208e-492e-b886-e8256afef57c |
27117.0 | 2015-01-27 00:00:00 UTC | Will PerkinElmer's (PKI) Earnings Disappoint This Season? - Analyst Blog | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/will-perkinelmers-pki-earnings-disappoint-this-season-analyst-blog-2015-01-27 | nan | nan | PerkinElmer Inc. ( PKI ) is slated to announce fourth-quarter and full-year 2014 results on Jan 29, 2015. Note that the company has posted an average positive earnings surprise of 2.8% over the last four quarters.
Let's see how things are shaping up for this announcement.
Factors at Play
The company's third-quarter 2014 results failed to impress us. Although earnings were in line with the Zacks Consensus Estimate, revenues lagged the same. Following disappointing results, management also trimmed its earnings projection for full year 2014.
Meanwhile, a sluggish European macro-environment continues to impact PerkinElmer's organic growth. Further, the company's environmental business is facing issues in China with respect to tenders that are awaiting government approval and funding.
The company's research business continues to be a weak link, owing to softness in academic end markets.
PerkinElmer's gross margin continues to remain under pressure due to unfavourable foreign exchange (stronger dollar), higher mix of lower margin service revenues and a negative impact from expansion into emerging economies.
Earnings Whispers?
Our proven model does not conclusively show that PerkinElmer is likely to beat earnings this quarter. This is because a stock needs to have both a positive Earnings ESP and a Zacks Rank #1, 2 or 3 for this to happen. That is not the case here as you will see below.
Zacks ESP : Earnings ESP represents the difference between the Most Accurate estimate and the Zacks Consensus Estimate. This entails an ESP of -1.28% for PerkinElmer as the Most Accurate estimate stands at 77 cents while the consensus estimate is pegged higher at 78 cents.
Zacks Rank : PerkinElmer has a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) which increases the predictive power of ESP. However, we need to have a positive ESP to be confident of an earnings surprise.
On the other hand, we caution against stocks with a Zacks Rank #4 or 5 (Sell-rated stocks) going into the earnings announcement, especially when the company is seeing negative estimate revisions.
Other Stocks to Consider
Here are some stocks that you may want to consider, as our model shows these have the right combination of elements to post an earnings beat this quarter:
Intersect ENT ( XENT ) has an earnings ESP of +11.11% and carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy).
Hologic ( HOLX ) has an earnings ESP of +2.78% and carries a Zacks Rank #2.
AbbVie ( ABBV ) has an earnings ESP of +1.18% and carries a Zacks Rank #2.
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | AbbVie ( ABBV ) has an earnings ESP of +1.18% and carries a Zacks Rank #2. Click to get this free report PERKINELMER INC (PKI): Free Stock Analysis Report HOLOGIC INC (HOLX): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report INTERSECT ENT (XENT): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Further, the company's environmental business is facing issues in China with respect to tenders that are awaiting government approval and funding. | Click to get this free report PERKINELMER INC (PKI): Free Stock Analysis Report HOLOGIC INC (HOLX): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report INTERSECT ENT (XENT): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. AbbVie ( ABBV ) has an earnings ESP of +1.18% and carries a Zacks Rank #2. Other Stocks to Consider Here are some stocks that you may want to consider, as our model shows these have the right combination of elements to post an earnings beat this quarter: Intersect ENT ( XENT ) has an earnings ESP of +11.11% and carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). | Click to get this free report PERKINELMER INC (PKI): Free Stock Analysis Report HOLOGIC INC (HOLX): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report INTERSECT ENT (XENT): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. AbbVie ( ABBV ) has an earnings ESP of +1.18% and carries a Zacks Rank #2. Zacks ESP : Earnings ESP represents the difference between the Most Accurate estimate and the Zacks Consensus Estimate. | AbbVie ( ABBV ) has an earnings ESP of +1.18% and carries a Zacks Rank #2. Click to get this free report PERKINELMER INC (PKI): Free Stock Analysis Report HOLOGIC INC (HOLX): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report INTERSECT ENT (XENT): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Zacks ESP : Earnings ESP represents the difference between the Most Accurate estimate and the Zacks Consensus Estimate. | 8eab48af-9675-4a5d-9cb2-bb14da7ed284 |
27118.0 | 2015-01-27 00:00:00 UTC | Can Celgene (CELG) Beat Earnings on Strong Product Sales? - Analyst Blog | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/can-celgene-celg-beat-earnings-on-strong-product-sales-analyst-blog-2015-01-27 | nan | nan | Celgene Corporation ( CELG ) is scheduled to report fourth-quarter 2014 results on Jan 29, before the opening bell. In the last reported quarter, Celgene recorded a positive earnings surprise of 7.32%. Let's see how things are shaping up for this announcement.
Strong Product Sales Could Drive Q4 Results
As per preliminary results announced earlier this month, the company expects adjusted earnings per share for the fourth quarter 2014 of $1.01. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for the quarter currently stands at 88 cents. Net product sales for the fourth quarter are expected to be approximately $2.05 billion, including a negative foreign exchange impact of $25 million.
The company expects earnings to be $3.71 per share in 2014, much above the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $3.26. Net product sales are expected to be approximately $7.56 billion, up 19% year over year in 2014. Net sales of Revlimid are projected at $4.98 billion, reflecting an increase of 16%. Sales of Abraxane in 2014 are projected to grow by 31% to $848 million. Pomalyst/ Imnovid and Otezla are expected to contribute $680 million and $70 million, respectively, to Celgene's 2014 total revenues.
We note that Celgene is facing generic competition for several important products including Vidaza. We believe that focus will remain on the performance of key products like Revlimid as well as recently approved products like Otezla.
Along with its preliminary results, Celgene provided encouraging guidance for 2015. The company expects adjusted earnings for 2015 in the range of $4.60-$4.75 per share, up 26% over expected earnings of $3.71 per share in 2014.
Net product sales for 2015 are expected to be approximately $9-$9.5 billon, up 22.3% year over year. Foreign exchange translations are expected to impact revenues negatively by $100 million. Net sales of oncology drug, Revlimid, the key growth driver at Celgene, are projected in the range of $5.6-$5.7 billion, reflecting an increase of 13.5 % year over year. We expect to see more details on the 2015 guidance on the earnings call.
Earnings Whispers?
Our proven model does not conclusively show that Celgene is likely to beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate in the fourth quarter. That is because a stock needs to have both a positive Earnings ESP and a Zacks Rank of #1, 2 or 3 for this to happen. Unfortunately, this is not the case here, as elaborated below.
Zacks ESP: Earnings ESP for Celgene is 0.00%. This is because both the Most Accurate estimate and the Zacks Consensus Estimate stand at 88 cents per share.
Zacks Rank: Celgene's Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) increases the predictive power of the ESP. However, we need to have a positive ESP to be confident of an earnings beat.
We caution against stocks with Zacks Ranks #4 and 5 (Sell-rated stocks) going into the earnings announcement, especially when the company is seeing negative estimate revisions.
Stocks That Warrant a Look
Here are some health care stocks that you may want to consider, as our model shows that these have the right combination of elements to post an earnings beat this quarter.
The earnings ESP for Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc. ( REGN ) is +8.65% and it carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). The company is scheduled to release its fourth quarter results on Feb 10.
Actavis ( ACT ) has an earnings ESP of +4.7% and carries a Zacks Rank #3. It is expected to report fourth-quarter results on Feb 18.
AbbVie Inc. ( ABBV ) has an earnings ESP of +1.18% and carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). It is scheduled to report fourth-quarter results on Jan 30.
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | AbbVie Inc. ( ABBV ) has an earnings ESP of +1.18% and carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). Click to get this free report REGENERON PHARM (REGN): Free Stock Analysis Report CELGENE CORP (CELG): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report ACTAVIS PLC (ACT): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Celgene Corporation ( CELG ) is scheduled to report fourth-quarter 2014 results on Jan 29, before the opening bell. | Click to get this free report REGENERON PHARM (REGN): Free Stock Analysis Report CELGENE CORP (CELG): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report ACTAVIS PLC (ACT): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. AbbVie Inc. ( ABBV ) has an earnings ESP of +1.18% and carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). Net product sales for the fourth quarter are expected to be approximately $2.05 billion, including a negative foreign exchange impact of $25 million. | Click to get this free report REGENERON PHARM (REGN): Free Stock Analysis Report CELGENE CORP (CELG): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report ACTAVIS PLC (ACT): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. AbbVie Inc. ( ABBV ) has an earnings ESP of +1.18% and carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). Strong Product Sales Could Drive Q4 Results As per preliminary results announced earlier this month, the company expects adjusted earnings per share for the fourth quarter 2014 of $1.01. | AbbVie Inc. ( ABBV ) has an earnings ESP of +1.18% and carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). Click to get this free report REGENERON PHARM (REGN): Free Stock Analysis Report CELGENE CORP (CELG): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report ACTAVIS PLC (ACT): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Strong Product Sales Could Drive Q4 Results As per preliminary results announced earlier this month, the company expects adjusted earnings per share for the fourth quarter 2014 of $1.01. | eba3979c-7471-4200-9e29-e5b4b0eb3783 |
27119.0 | 2015-01-27 00:00:00 UTC | Will AmerisourceBergen (ABC) Earnings Surprise in Q1? - Analyst Blog | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/will-amerisourcebergen-abc-earnings-surprise-in-q1-analyst-blog-2015-01-27 | nan | nan | AmerisourceBergen Corporation ( ABC ) one of the world's largest pharmaceutical services companies with focus on drug distribution and related services, is set to report first-quarter fiscal 2015 results on Jan 28, 2015.
Last quarter, AmerisourceBergen had reported a 4.8% positive surprise. The company's track record has been quite impressive as it has delivered positive earnings surprises in all of the past four quarters with an average beat of 5.4%.
Factors Influencing This Quarter
Revenues should benefit from improved growth rates in the U.S. pharmaceutical market, driven by rise in overall script and volume from an improving economy, health reform initiatives and successful product launches. Generic inflation is expected to remain flat compared with fiscal 2014.
AmerisourceBergen had entered into a strategic agreement with Walgreen Boots Alliance ( WBA ) in fiscal 2013. The agreement included a 10-year pharmaceutical distribution contract with Walgreen and access to generic drugs and related pharmaceutical products through the Walgreen Boots Alliance Development joint venture (JV).
AmerisourceBergen will benefit from a full year of the generic business with Walgreen, which should positively impact results in the quarter and continue into fiscal 2015. Incremental generics business from Walgreen is likely to impact results by 2% in fiscal 2015.
However, reimbursement issues for community oncologists remain a concern. Although the generic calendar looks better in fiscal 2015 compared to fiscal 2014, the generic version of Nexium has been delayed to Jun 2015 whereby the company will not be able to reap the benefits of six months of exclusivity. Revenue growth is also likely to be dampened by the loss of a customer.
What Our Model Indicates
Our proven model does not conclusively show that AmerisourceBergen is likely to beat earnings this quarter. That is because a stock needs to have both a positive Earnings ESP and a Zacks Rank of #1, 2 or 3 for this to happen. That is not the case here as you will see below.
Zacks ESP : Earnings ESP, which represents the difference between the Most Accurate estimate and the Zacks Consensus Estimate, is pegged at 0.00%. This is because both the Most Accurate Estimate and Zacks Consensus Estimate currently stand at 96 cents.
Zacks Rank : AmerisourceBergen's Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) when combined with a 0.00% ESP makes a surprise prediction difficult.
We caution against stocks with Zacks Ranks #4 and #5 (Sell-rated stocks) going into the earnings announcement, especially when the company is seeing negative estimate revisions momentum.
Stocks That Warrant a Look
Here are some health care stocks that you may want to consider, as our model shows that these have the right combination of elements to post an earnings beat this quarter.
AbbVie Inc. ( ABBV ) has an earnings ESP of +1.18% and carries a Zacks Rank #2. It will report fourth-quarter 2014 results on Jan 30.
Biodel Inc. ( BIOD ) has an Earnings ESP of +33.33% and carries a Zacks Rank #1. The company is scheduled to release first-quarter fiscal 2015 results on Feb 5.
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | AbbVie Inc. ( ABBV ) has an earnings ESP of +1.18% and carries a Zacks Rank #2. Click to get this free report AMERISOURCEBRGN (ABC): Free Stock Analysis Report BIODEL INC (BIOD): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report WALGREENS BAI (WBA): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. The company's track record has been quite impressive as it has delivered positive earnings surprises in all of the past four quarters with an average beat of 5.4%. | Click to get this free report AMERISOURCEBRGN (ABC): Free Stock Analysis Report BIODEL INC (BIOD): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report WALGREENS BAI (WBA): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. AbbVie Inc. ( ABBV ) has an earnings ESP of +1.18% and carries a Zacks Rank #2. AmerisourceBergen Corporation ( ABC ) one of the world's largest pharmaceutical services companies with focus on drug distribution and related services, is set to report first-quarter fiscal 2015 results on Jan 28, 2015. | Click to get this free report AMERISOURCEBRGN (ABC): Free Stock Analysis Report BIODEL INC (BIOD): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report WALGREENS BAI (WBA): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. AbbVie Inc. ( ABBV ) has an earnings ESP of +1.18% and carries a Zacks Rank #2. Zacks ESP : Earnings ESP, which represents the difference between the Most Accurate estimate and the Zacks Consensus Estimate, is pegged at 0.00%. | AbbVie Inc. ( ABBV ) has an earnings ESP of +1.18% and carries a Zacks Rank #2. Click to get this free report AMERISOURCEBRGN (ABC): Free Stock Analysis Report BIODEL INC (BIOD): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report WALGREENS BAI (WBA): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Last quarter, AmerisourceBergen had reported a 4.8% positive surprise. | 4f71d686-f2a5-4b0f-985a-93ca61920a77 |
27120.0 | 2015-01-26 00:00:00 UTC | IYH, AMGN, ABBV, CELG: Large Inflows Detected at ETF | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/iyh-amgn-abbv-celg-large-inflows-detected-etf-2015-01-26 | nan | nan | Looking today at week-over-week shares outstanding changes among the universe of ETFs covered at ETF Channel , one standout is the iShares U.S. Healthcare ETF (Symbol: IYH) where we have detected an approximate $90.0 million dollar inflow -- that's a 4.4% increase week over week in outstanding units (from 13,750,000 to 14,350,000). Among the largest underlying components of IYH, in trading today Amgen Inc (Symbol: AMGN) is off about 0.3%, AbbVie Inc. (Symbol: ABBV) is down about 1.2%, and Celgene Corp. (Symbol: CELG) is lower by about 0.3%. For a complete list of holdings, visit the IYH Holdings page » The chart below shows the one year price performance of IYH, versus its 200 day moving average:
Looking at the chart above, IYH's low point in its 52 week range is $115.40 per share, with $150.61 as the 52 week high point - that compares with a last trade of $149.72. Comparing the most recent share price to the 200 day moving average can also be a useful technical analysis technique -- learn more about the 200 day moving average » .
Exchange traded funds (ETFs) trade just like stocks, but instead of ''shares'' investors are actually buying and selling ''units''. These ''units'' can be traded back and forth just like stocks, but can also be created or destroyed to accommodate investor demand. Each week we monitor the week-over-week change in shares outstanding data, to keep a lookout for those ETFs experiencing notable inflows (many new units created) or outflows (many old units destroyed). Creation of new units will mean the underlying holdings of the ETF need to be purchased, while destruction of units involves selling underlying holdings, so large flows can also impact the individual components held within ETFs.
Click here to find out which 9 other ETFs had notable inflows »
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | Among the largest underlying components of IYH, in trading today Amgen Inc (Symbol: AMGN) is off about 0.3%, AbbVie Inc. (Symbol: ABBV) is down about 1.2%, and Celgene Corp. (Symbol: CELG) is lower by about 0.3%. For a complete list of holdings, visit the IYH Holdings page » The chart below shows the one year price performance of IYH, versus its 200 day moving average: Looking at the chart above, IYH's low point in its 52 week range is $115.40 per share, with $150.61 as the 52 week high point - that compares with a last trade of $149.72. These ''units'' can be traded back and forth just like stocks, but can also be created or destroyed to accommodate investor demand. | Among the largest underlying components of IYH, in trading today Amgen Inc (Symbol: AMGN) is off about 0.3%, AbbVie Inc. (Symbol: ABBV) is down about 1.2%, and Celgene Corp. (Symbol: CELG) is lower by about 0.3%. For a complete list of holdings, visit the IYH Holdings page » The chart below shows the one year price performance of IYH, versus its 200 day moving average: Looking at the chart above, IYH's low point in its 52 week range is $115.40 per share, with $150.61 as the 52 week high point - that compares with a last trade of $149.72. Click here to find out which 9 other ETFs had notable inflows » The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | Among the largest underlying components of IYH, in trading today Amgen Inc (Symbol: AMGN) is off about 0.3%, AbbVie Inc. (Symbol: ABBV) is down about 1.2%, and Celgene Corp. (Symbol: CELG) is lower by about 0.3%. Looking today at week-over-week shares outstanding changes among the universe of ETFs covered at ETF Channel , one standout is the iShares U.S. Healthcare ETF (Symbol: IYH) where we have detected an approximate $90.0 million dollar inflow -- that's a 4.4% increase week over week in outstanding units (from 13,750,000 to 14,350,000). For a complete list of holdings, visit the IYH Holdings page » The chart below shows the one year price performance of IYH, versus its 200 day moving average: Looking at the chart above, IYH's low point in its 52 week range is $115.40 per share, with $150.61 as the 52 week high point - that compares with a last trade of $149.72. | Among the largest underlying components of IYH, in trading today Amgen Inc (Symbol: AMGN) is off about 0.3%, AbbVie Inc. (Symbol: ABBV) is down about 1.2%, and Celgene Corp. (Symbol: CELG) is lower by about 0.3%. Looking today at week-over-week shares outstanding changes among the universe of ETFs covered at ETF Channel , one standout is the iShares U.S. Healthcare ETF (Symbol: IYH) where we have detected an approximate $90.0 million dollar inflow -- that's a 4.4% increase week over week in outstanding units (from 13,750,000 to 14,350,000). For a complete list of holdings, visit the IYH Holdings page » The chart below shows the one year price performance of IYH, versus its 200 day moving average: Looking at the chart above, IYH's low point in its 52 week range is $115.40 per share, with $150.61 as the 52 week high point - that compares with a last trade of $149.72. | ff4a7967-5626-4c2d-881e-098c01911947 |
27121.0 | 2015-01-24 00:00:00 UTC | These 3 Dividend Stocks Could Crush the Market in 2015 | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/these-3-dividend-stocks-could-crush-market-2015-2015-01-24 | nan | nan | Source: Flickr via LendingMemo
The stock market has gotten off to a rather volatile start in 2015, leading many to believe that this aging bull market might finally be coming to an end.
As a long-term-oriented investor, though, I personally don't worry about the market's moody behavior. Instead, I look for certain qualities in stocks that should produce market-beating returns over lengthy periods of time (10 years or more). At the top of this list, I tend to find that decent dividend yields, stable cash flows, and top-notch management can see a company and its stock through even the worst markets.
AbbVie , Amgen , and Pfizer are three stocks that possess these qualities in spades, making them some of my favorite large cap picks for 2015. With this in mind, let's take a deeper look at these three top healthcare names.
Source: AbbVie
AbbVie has a lot to offer investors in 2015
It's not often that a company announces that earnings per share should grow by more than 30% during the year and the result is a subsequent drop in share price. But that's precisely what's happened to AbbVie.
After giving a rather strong outlook for 2015, AbbVie's shares have fallen close to 4%. Even so, I see this pullback as a buying opportunity for savvy investors.
On the face of it, this drop in share price is occurring because the Street was actually expecting even stronger guidance, mainly because of AbbVie's multiyear deal with Express Scripts for its new hepatitis C therapy Viekira Pak.
A 30% growth rate is nothing to sneeze at, though. And AbbVie's shares look cheap in the wake of this guidance, with a forward price-to-earnings ratio of roughly 14.
This astounding growth should also keep the company flush with cash, which management has used to handsomely reward shareholders via dividend increases. Indeed, management kicked off 2015 by increasing the dividend by 17%, from $0.42 to $0.49 per share. With more free cash coming down the pike, I fully expect another dividend increase before year's end.
The upside surprise shareholders should look for this year is a key acquisition that puts AbbVie on the growth path past Humira's looming patent expiration. Management has proven adept at sidestepping potential landmines, and the time seems right to deal with this overhanging issue.
Amgen's growth engine is kicking into high gear
Amgen seemingly fell into a coma between 2000 and 2011 growth-wise, failing to do much in terms of growing its top-line. But that's about to change in a huge way.
This year, the biotech giant is expected to report late-stage trial data or file regulatory submissions for a whopping 10 clinical candidates (see below). The most anticipated experimental drug of the bunch, though, is the PCSK9 inhibitor Evolocumab, a potent new type of treatment for bad cholesterol that has megablockbuster potential.
Source: Amgen via the 33rd Annual J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conf.
These newer drugs, in conjunction with Amgen's existing products, are projected to grow EPS by a whopping 20% in 2015, and by double-digits, on average, for the next five years.
In anticipation of this nice boost in earnings, management has already upped the dividend for 2015 by 30% to 0.79 a share. And like AbbVie, I think another dividend increase is more than likely this year, giving investors ample reasons to dig deeper into this top biotech.
Pfizer's story is still unfolding, but big things are coming
Pfizer is in the midst of what amounts to a total reboot, but the end of this process doesn't appear to be far away.
Source: Flickr via William Murphy
Because of plummeting revenues for behemoth legacy products like Celebrex, Pfizer's newer growth products like Prevnar 13 haven't been able to move the needle in terms of the company's top or bottom lines. Management has nonetheless put a plan into action to change this scenario.
After reorganizing the company into three operational segments last year, I think Pfizer is now getting ready to jettison its problematic legacy products via a sale, combined with the buyout of another major pharma.
If this scenario comes to pass and the company's highly anticipated breast cancer drug palbociclib gains approval this April, Pfizer should easily be a top-performing large stock in 2015.
On the dividend front, Pfizer also joined its peers AbbVie and Amgen recently by increasing its dividend by 7.7% to $0.28 a share, on a quarterly basis -- keeping it perched atop the list of best dividend stocks.
This coming blockbuster will make every biotech jealous
The best biotech investors consistently reap gigantic profits by recognizing true potential earlier and more accurately than anyone else. Let me cut right to the chase. There is a product in development that could revolutionize not just how we treat a common chronic illness, but potentially the entire health industry. Analysts are already licking their chops at the sales potential. If you hope to outsmart Wall Street and realize multi-bagger returns you will need to get in early -- check out The Motley Fool's new free report on the dream-team responsible for this game-changing blockbuster. CLICK HERE NOW .
The article These 3 Dividend Stocks Could Crush the Market in 2015 originally appeared on Fool.com.
George Budwell owns shares of AbbVie. The Motley Fool recommends Express Scripts. The Motley Fool owns shares of Express Scripts. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days . We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy .
Copyright © 1995 - 2015 The Motley Fool, LLC. All rights reserved. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy .
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | On the face of it, this drop in share price is occurring because the Street was actually expecting even stronger guidance, mainly because of AbbVie's multiyear deal with Express Scripts for its new hepatitis C therapy Viekira Pak. AbbVie , Amgen , and Pfizer are three stocks that possess these qualities in spades, making them some of my favorite large cap picks for 2015. Source: AbbVie AbbVie has a lot to offer investors in 2015 It's not often that a company announces that earnings per share should grow by more than 30% during the year and the result is a subsequent drop in share price. | AbbVie , Amgen , and Pfizer are three stocks that possess these qualities in spades, making them some of my favorite large cap picks for 2015. Source: AbbVie AbbVie has a lot to offer investors in 2015 It's not often that a company announces that earnings per share should grow by more than 30% during the year and the result is a subsequent drop in share price. But that's precisely what's happened to AbbVie. | Source: AbbVie AbbVie has a lot to offer investors in 2015 It's not often that a company announces that earnings per share should grow by more than 30% during the year and the result is a subsequent drop in share price. And like AbbVie, I think another dividend increase is more than likely this year, giving investors ample reasons to dig deeper into this top biotech. On the dividend front, Pfizer also joined its peers AbbVie and Amgen recently by increasing its dividend by 7.7% to $0.28 a share, on a quarterly basis -- keeping it perched atop the list of best dividend stocks. | AbbVie , Amgen , and Pfizer are three stocks that possess these qualities in spades, making them some of my favorite large cap picks for 2015. Source: AbbVie AbbVie has a lot to offer investors in 2015 It's not often that a company announces that earnings per share should grow by more than 30% during the year and the result is a subsequent drop in share price. But that's precisely what's happened to AbbVie. | 45d6dcd3-3677-4892-a40d-52055e5d590b |
27122.0 | 2015-01-24 00:00:00 UTC | This Stock Could Become the Next Johnson & Johnson | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/stock-could-become-next-johnson-johnson-2015-01-24 | nan | nan | There's little debate that healthcare goliath Johnson & Johnson has become the de facto gold standard among healthcare companies. J&J's Tylenol and Band-Aid brands are household staples, its prescription drugs are among the most widely used on the planet, and its medical devices are common in hospital surgical rooms everywhere. But J&J wasn't always as big as it is today, and that suggests that investors may be well served by keeping an eye on these three companies that our Motley Fool contributors believe could be J&J's in the making.
Source: Novartis.
Cheryl Swanson : If you're looking for a megacap healthcare stock with a solid-gold dividend track record and the kind of steady-Eddy performance that lets you sleep well at night, you can't do better than Johnson & Johnson.
But if you'd prefer a megacap with more tailwinds heading into 2015, thanks to an abundance of late-pipeline potential blockbusters, you might want to look on other side of the pond at Swiss-based Novartis AG .
Of course, no pharma company compares with Johnson & Johnson in terms of diversity. But Novartis' fast-growing consumer eye-care business, as well as a generics business, Sandoz, gives it some cross-segment synergies and helps reduce its earnings volatility.
Where Novartis may have an edge over Johnson & Johnson is in its late pipeline. The biggest near-term opportunity is LCZ696, which Cyde Yancy , former American Heart Association president, called one of the biggest potential advances against heart failures in more than a decade. Novartis' personalized CAR-T cancer therapy is also barreling toward commercialization, with drug CTL019 getting a rare breakthrough status from the FDA.
On the dividend side, Novartis yields 2.85%, and the company has raised its dividend every year since it launched in 1996. That doesn't match Johnson & Johnson's 52-year track record, but hey, we're talking a teenager compared with a hundred-plus-year-old company. Give the kid some time.
LeoSun :Pfizer , which had a rough three years since the patent expiration of its blockbuster cholesterol drug Lipitor in 2011, could eventually post the same steady growth that J&J is known for.
Between fiscal 2011 and 2013, Pfizer's annual revenue dropped 21%, but it aggressively shielded its bottom line by cutting jobs, spinning off and selling business units, and raising prices. As a result, Pfizer's annual EPS improved 213% over those three years. After slashing its dividend in 2009, Pfizer raised its dividend annually and now pays a forward annual yield of 3.5%. Meanwhile, two experimental drugs -- the breast cancer drug palbociclib and cholesterol drug bococizumab -- are potential blockbusters that might offset its Lipitor losses.
Last year, Pfizer reorganized its business into three main segments: global innovative pharmaceuticals, or GIP; vaccines, oncology, and consumer healthcare, or VOC; and global established pharmaceuticals, or GEP. There has been speculation that Pfizer could spin off or sell its sluggish GEP segment and make a massive acquisition (like its failed AstraZeneca deal) to enhance its GIP segment. Last year, Pfizer closed its acquisition of Baxter International 's vaccine portfolio to enhance its VOC business.
I believe that Pfizer's aggressive protection of its bottom line, its pipeline of potential blockbusters, and the reorganization and growth of its business segments could eventually make it a solid healthcare investment with steady growth on par with J&J.
George Budwell : Johnson & Johnson is a top healthcare stock because management has consistently been ahead of the curve when it comes to identifying new growth opportunities and richly rewarding shareholders via share buybacks, dividend increases, and the like. AbbVie , in many ways, is following in J&J's giant footsteps.
Since becoming an independent company in January 2013, AbbVie's executives have raised the dividend on three occasions, keeping the payout well above the sector average (3.04% at current levels) and earning the coveted title of "Dividend Aristocrat" in the S&P 500 Dividend Aristocrat Index (with help from its Abbott Laboratories history). Management has also been aggressive in terms of buying back shares, instituting a new $5 billion repurchase program last October.
Perhaps most importantly, though, AbbVie has been extremely active in its search for future avenues of growth. Last September, for example, the Illinois-based drugmaker signed an agreement with Infinity Pharmaceuticals to develop duvelisib, a Class I PI3K-delta and gamma inhibitor, for treatment of a host of blood cancers. And in a separate agreement, AbbVie agreed to act as the marketing partner for Google 's highly speculative venture into the biotech arena, Calico, which is a clinically-oriented company investigating age-related diseases such as cancer and neurodegeneration.
All told, AbbVie has all the hallmarks of a great dividend stock to buy and hold for the long term.
This coming blockbuster will make every biotech jealous
The best biotech investors consistently reap gigantic profits by recognizing true potential earlier and more accurately than anyone else. Let me cut right to the chase. There is a product in development that could revolutionize not just how we treat a common chronic illness, but potentially the entire health industry. Analysts are already licking their chops at the sales potential. If you hope to outsmart Wall Street and realize multi-bagger returns you will need to get in early -- check out The Motley Fool's new free report on the dream-team responsible for this game-changing blockbuster. CLICK HERE NOW .
The article This Stock Could Become the Next Johnson & Johnson originally appeared on Fool.com.
Cheryl Swanson owns shares of Baxter International. George Budwell owns shares of AbbVie. Leo Sun owns shares of Pfizer. The Motley Fool recommends Baxter International, Google (A and C shares), and Johnson & Johnson and owns shares of Google (A and C shares) and Johnson & Johnson. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days . We Fools don't all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy .
Copyright © 1995 - 2015 The Motley Fool, LLC. All rights reserved. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy .
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | And in a separate agreement, AbbVie agreed to act as the marketing partner for Google 's highly speculative venture into the biotech arena, Calico, which is a clinically-oriented company investigating age-related diseases such as cancer and neurodegeneration. AbbVie , in many ways, is following in J&J's giant footsteps. Since becoming an independent company in January 2013, AbbVie's executives have raised the dividend on three occasions, keeping the payout well above the sector average (3.04% at current levels) and earning the coveted title of "Dividend Aristocrat" in the S&P 500 Dividend Aristocrat Index (with help from its Abbott Laboratories history). | AbbVie , in many ways, is following in J&J's giant footsteps. Since becoming an independent company in January 2013, AbbVie's executives have raised the dividend on three occasions, keeping the payout well above the sector average (3.04% at current levels) and earning the coveted title of "Dividend Aristocrat" in the S&P 500 Dividend Aristocrat Index (with help from its Abbott Laboratories history). Perhaps most importantly, though, AbbVie has been extremely active in its search for future avenues of growth. | AbbVie , in many ways, is following in J&J's giant footsteps. Since becoming an independent company in January 2013, AbbVie's executives have raised the dividend on three occasions, keeping the payout well above the sector average (3.04% at current levels) and earning the coveted title of "Dividend Aristocrat" in the S&P 500 Dividend Aristocrat Index (with help from its Abbott Laboratories history). Perhaps most importantly, though, AbbVie has been extremely active in its search for future avenues of growth. | AbbVie , in many ways, is following in J&J's giant footsteps. Since becoming an independent company in January 2013, AbbVie's executives have raised the dividend on three occasions, keeping the payout well above the sector average (3.04% at current levels) and earning the coveted title of "Dividend Aristocrat" in the S&P 500 Dividend Aristocrat Index (with help from its Abbott Laboratories history). Perhaps most importantly, though, AbbVie has been extremely active in its search for future avenues of growth. | 9a4c71c7-d25d-4078-80f7-1a89112b9e7f |
27123.0 | 2015-01-23 00:00:00 UTC | Will Pfizer (PFE) Beat Q4 Earnings Despite Generics? - Analyst Blog | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/will-pfizer-pfe-beat-q4-earnings-despite-generics-analyst-blog-2015-01-23 | nan | nan | Pharma giant, Pfizer ( PFE ), will be reporting fourth quarter and full year 2014 results on Jan 27, before the opening bell.
Pfizer's track record has been pretty good in the first nine months of 2014 with the company beating earnings estimates consistently. The average earnings surprise over the last four quarters is 3.67%.
Celebrex Generics to Hit 4Q Revenues
Pfizer, which has been struggling to deliver top-line growth in the face of genericization of key products, will see fourth quarter results affected by the Dec 2014 entry of generic versions of Celebrex. Worldwide Celebrex revenues were $2.15 billion in the first nine months of 2014. Alliance revenues are also under pressure with the expiry of collaboration for products like Enbrel. We note that third quarter 2014 revenues were hit by about $750 million due to loss of exclusivities (LOEs) and decline in alliance revenues.
Pfizer expects the period of high LOE impact to continue through 2016 after which the size of the impact should go down substantially.
Currency movement will also have an impact on results given Pfizer's presence in ex-U.S. markets.
In such a scenario, the performance of core products like Lyrica and the Prevnar franchise and new products like Eliquis, Xeljanz, Xalkori and Inlyta as well as pipeline progress are key focus areas for investors.
Last quarter, Pfizer reported that Eliquis gained significant share in the anticoagulant market. Rheumatoid arthritis treatment, Xeljanz, should also see steady share gains with growing awareness regarding its efficacy as a monotherapy option. Earlier this year, Pfizer said that Xeljanz is now the third prescribed choice among rheumatologists in the segment of self-administrated biologicals and has more than 10% market share in this segment. Xeljanz continues to do well in a number of important markets.
Meanwhile, Pfizer has a very important regulatory event coming up with the FDA expected to respond on the company's regulatory application for experimental cancer treatment, Ibrance, by Apr 13. Other important pipeline candidates include ertugliflozin (diabetes), bococizumab (cholesterol lowering in high risk individuals) and vaccines. The company's biosimilar efforts will also be in focus. Pfizer is targeting more than 15 approvals in the next four years. Immuno-oncology will also be a focus area this year.
Another question that remains is whether Pfizer is heading for a split. On its third quarter call, the company had said that during 2015, it would put in significant effort towards setting up the groundwork required to operationalize a potential split. The company currently has two primary businesses - an innovative R&D driven portfolio and the global established pharmaceutical business. Business development deals will also be an area of interest - last year, Pfizer's attempts to acquire AstraZeneca ( AZN ) remained unsuccessful.
At the time of presenting third quarter results, Pfizer had guided towards 2014 earnings of $2.23 - $2.27 per share on revenues of $48.7 billion - $49.7 billion. Cost control and share buybacks should help the company achieve its earnings guidance.
What Our Model Indicates
Our proven model shows that Pfizer is likely to beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate in the fourth quarter. That is because a stock needs to have both a positive Earnings ESP and a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) or better for increasing the odds of an earnings surprise. This is the case as elaborated below.
Zacks ESP : The Earnings ESP for Pfizer is 1.89%. This is because the Most Accurate estimate and the Zacks Consensus Estimate are 54 cents and 53 cents per share, respectively.
Zacks Rank: PFE's Zacks Rank #3 increases the predictive power of ESP.
Stocks That Warrant a Look
Here are a couple of health care stocks that you may want to consider, as our model shows that these have the right combination of elements to post an earnings beat this quarter.
AbbVie ( ABBV ) has an Earnings ESP of +1.18% and carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). It is scheduled to report results on Jan 30.
The Earnings ESP for Actavis ( ACT ) is +3.04% and it carries a Zacks Rank #3. The company is scheduled to release results on Feb 18.
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | AbbVie ( ABBV ) has an Earnings ESP of +1.18% and carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). Click to get this free report ASTRAZENECA PLC (AZN): Free Stock Analysis Report PFIZER INC (PFE): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report ACTAVIS PLC (ACT): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Pharma giant, Pfizer ( PFE ), will be reporting fourth quarter and full year 2014 results on Jan 27, before the opening bell. | Click to get this free report ASTRAZENECA PLC (AZN): Free Stock Analysis Report PFIZER INC (PFE): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report ACTAVIS PLC (ACT): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. AbbVie ( ABBV ) has an Earnings ESP of +1.18% and carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). Zacks Rank: PFE's Zacks Rank #3 increases the predictive power of ESP. | Click to get this free report ASTRAZENECA PLC (AZN): Free Stock Analysis Report PFIZER INC (PFE): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report ACTAVIS PLC (ACT): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. AbbVie ( ABBV ) has an Earnings ESP of +1.18% and carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). Celebrex Generics to Hit 4Q Revenues Pfizer, which has been struggling to deliver top-line growth in the face of genericization of key products, will see fourth quarter results affected by the Dec 2014 entry of generic versions of Celebrex. | AbbVie ( ABBV ) has an Earnings ESP of +1.18% and carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). Click to get this free report ASTRAZENECA PLC (AZN): Free Stock Analysis Report PFIZER INC (PFE): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report ACTAVIS PLC (ACT): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Last quarter, Pfizer reported that Eliquis gained significant share in the anticoagulant market. | 80de7172-70db-4767-9f39-60c1dca5bcc0 |
27124.0 | 2015-01-23 00:00:00 UTC | Will Accuray (ARAY) Disappoint Earnings Estimates in Q2? - Analyst Blog | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/will-accuray-aray-disappoint-earnings-estimates-in-q2-analyst-blog-2015-01-23 | nan | nan | Accuray Inc. ( ARAY ) is set to report second-quarter 2015 results on Jan 27. Last quarter, the company posted loss of 28 cents per share, which was significantly wider than the Zacks Consensus Estimate of a loss of 13 cents.
Let's see how things are shaping up for this quarter.
Factors This Past Quarter
Accuray's preliminary second-quarter results failed to impress us. The company estimates revenues of more than $97 million, up 4% year over year (7% at constant currency), which lags the current Zacks Consensus Estimate of $101 million.
Gross orders are estimated to be $72 million, while net orders are expected to be approximately $41 million, including $18 million to age-outs. Although the company did not lose any order to competitors, cancellations were $7 million in the quarter.
A strong U.S. dollar continues to hurt net orders. Most importantly, backlog decreased 1.7% (6 million) in the quarter, which will remain an overhang on results in our view.
On the other hand, Chinese NHFPC issued 6 licenses for Accuray products in Dec, 2014, which is a significant positive. Moreover, one system order was recognized in backlog during the second quarter, while two orders are expected fall under the third and fourth quarter backlog. This is expected to considerably improve top-line growth going forward.
Earnings Whispers?
Our proven model does not conclusively show that Accuray is likely to beat earnings this quarter. That is because a stock needs to have both a positive Earnings ESP and a Zacks Rank of #1, 2 or at least 3 for this to happen. That is not the case here as you will see below.
Zacks ESP : Accuray currently has an Earnings ESP of 0.00%. This is because both the Most Accurate estimate and the Zacks Consensus Estimate stand at a loss of 9 cents.
Zacks Rank : Accuray carries a Zacks Rank #4 (Sell).
We caution against stocks with Zacks Rank #4 and 5 (Sell-rated stocks) going into the earnings announcement, especially when the company is seeing negative estimate revisions momentum.
Stocks to Consider
Here are a few stocks worth considering that, as per our model, have the right combination of elements to post an earnings beat this quarter:
Hologic ( HOLX ) with an Earnings ESP of +2.78% and a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy).
AbbVie ( ABBV ) with an Earnings ESP of +1.18% and a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy).
IntersectENT ( XENT ) with an Earnings ESP of +11.11% and a Zacks Rank #2.
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ACCURAY INC (ARAY): Free Stock Analysis Report
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ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report
INTERSECT ENT (XENT): Free Stock Analysis Report
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | AbbVie ( ABBV ) with an Earnings ESP of +1.18% and a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). Click to get this free report ACCURAY INC (ARAY): Free Stock Analysis Report HOLOGIC INC (HOLX): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report INTERSECT ENT (XENT): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Factors This Past Quarter Accuray's preliminary second-quarter results failed to impress us. | AbbVie ( ABBV ) with an Earnings ESP of +1.18% and a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). Click to get this free report ACCURAY INC (ARAY): Free Stock Analysis Report HOLOGIC INC (HOLX): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report INTERSECT ENT (XENT): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Stocks to Consider Here are a few stocks worth considering that, as per our model, have the right combination of elements to post an earnings beat this quarter: Hologic ( HOLX ) with an Earnings ESP of +2.78% and a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy). | Click to get this free report ACCURAY INC (ARAY): Free Stock Analysis Report HOLOGIC INC (HOLX): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report INTERSECT ENT (XENT): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. AbbVie ( ABBV ) with an Earnings ESP of +1.18% and a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). We caution against stocks with Zacks Rank #4 and 5 (Sell-rated stocks) going into the earnings announcement, especially when the company is seeing negative estimate revisions momentum. | AbbVie ( ABBV ) with an Earnings ESP of +1.18% and a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). Click to get this free report ACCURAY INC (ARAY): Free Stock Analysis Report HOLOGIC INC (HOLX): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report INTERSECT ENT (XENT): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Most importantly, backlog decreased 1.7% (6 million) in the quarter, which will remain an overhang on results in our view. | e6f199a2-21d2-4607-b852-0671b4e53aa5 |
27125.0 | 2015-01-23 00:00:00 UTC | Will Oncology Products Drive Bristol-Myers (BMY) Earnings? - Analyst Blog | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/will-oncology-products-drive-bristol-myers-bmy-earnings-analyst-blog-2015-01-23 | nan | nan | Bristol-Myers Squibb Company ( BMY ) is scheduled to report its fourth-quarter 2014 results on Jan 27, before the opening bell.
In the last quarter, Bristol-Myers delivered a positive 9.76% earnings surprise - the fifth successive earnings beat - driven by strong sales of its oncology drugs. Let's see how things are shaping up for this announcement.
Oncology Drugs Could Drive Q4 Results
Will oncology product sales, which have been driving the company's performance in the last few quarters, continue to be the driving force this quarter?
Products like Yervoy (skin cancer), Sprycel (leukemia) and Orencia (rheumatoid arthritis) should continue to perform well in the fourth quarter of 2014. Anti-clotting drug Eliquis showed improvement in the third quarter. It is expected that the product will register strong growth this quarter as well driven by approval for new indications.
However, sales of Baraclude (hepatitis B virus), Reyataz (HIV) and Sustiva (HIV) are expected to decline in the quarter due to generic competition.
At the time of releasing third quarter results, Bristol-Myers had maintained its 2014 adjusted earnings per share guidance in the range of $1.70 to $1.80. The company's 2014 revenue guidance was also maintained in the range of $15.2 billion to $15.8 billion.
We believe that investor focus will remain on updates on the company's high-profile immuno-oncology drug, Opdivo. Opdivo gained accelerated approval in Dec 2014 for the melanoma indication based on tumor response rate and the durability of response. Investors are also looking forward to the company's outlook for 2015, which is expected to be revealed along with the earnings release.
Earnings Whispers?
Our proven model does not conclusively show that Bristol-Myers is likely to beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate in the fourth quarter. That is because a stock needs to have both a positive Earnings ESP and a Zacks Rank of #1, 2 or 3 for this to happen. Unfortunately, this is not the case here, as elaborated below.
Negative Zacks ESP: This is because the Most Accurate estimate stands at 39 cents per share, while the Zacks Consensus Estimate is higher at 40 cents. This results in an ESP of -2.50%.
Zacks Rank: Bristol-Myers' Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) increases the predictive power of the ESP. However, we need to have a positive ESP to be confident of an earnings beat.
We caution against stocks with Zacks Ranks #4 and 5 (Sell-rated stocks) going into the earnings announcement, especially when the company is seeing negative estimate revisions.
Stocks That Warrant a Look
Here are some health care stocks that you may want to consider, as our model shows that these have the right combination of elements to post an earnings beat this quarter.
The earnings ESP for Mallinckrodt ( MNK ) is +0.65% and it carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). The company is scheduled to release its first quarter fiscal 2015 results on Feb 3.
Pfizer Inc. ( PFE ) has an earnings ESP of +1.89% and carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). It is scheduled to report fourth-quarter results on Jan 27.
AbbVie Inc. ( ABBV ) has an earnings ESP of +1.18% and carries a Zacks Rank #2. It is expected to report fourth-quarter results on Jan 30.
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Zacks Investment Research
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | AbbVie Inc. ( ABBV ) has an earnings ESP of +1.18% and carries a Zacks Rank #2. Click to get this free report BRISTOL-MYERS (BMY): Free Stock Analysis Report PFIZER INC (PFE): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report MALLINCKRODT PL (MNK): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Bristol-Myers Squibb Company ( BMY ) is scheduled to report its fourth-quarter 2014 results on Jan 27, before the opening bell. | Click to get this free report BRISTOL-MYERS (BMY): Free Stock Analysis Report PFIZER INC (PFE): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report MALLINCKRODT PL (MNK): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. AbbVie Inc. ( ABBV ) has an earnings ESP of +1.18% and carries a Zacks Rank #2. Oncology Drugs Could Drive Q4 Results Will oncology product sales, which have been driving the company's performance in the last few quarters, continue to be the driving force this quarter? | Click to get this free report BRISTOL-MYERS (BMY): Free Stock Analysis Report PFIZER INC (PFE): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report MALLINCKRODT PL (MNK): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. AbbVie Inc. ( ABBV ) has an earnings ESP of +1.18% and carries a Zacks Rank #2. Oncology Drugs Could Drive Q4 Results Will oncology product sales, which have been driving the company's performance in the last few quarters, continue to be the driving force this quarter? | AbbVie Inc. ( ABBV ) has an earnings ESP of +1.18% and carries a Zacks Rank #2. Click to get this free report BRISTOL-MYERS (BMY): Free Stock Analysis Report PFIZER INC (PFE): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report MALLINCKRODT PL (MNK): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. That is because a stock needs to have both a positive Earnings ESP and a Zacks Rank of #1, 2 or 3 for this to happen. | a9778e3b-64c0-430e-bed7-4ac609e8c8a4 |
27126.0 | 2015-01-23 00:00:00 UTC | Will Stryker (SYK) Disappoint this Earnings Season? - Analyst Blog | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/will-stryker-syk-disappoint-this-earnings-season-analyst-blog-2015-01-23 | nan | nan | Stryker Corp ( SYK ) is set to report fourth-quarter 2015 results on Jan 27. Last quarter, the company reported earnings of $1.15 per share, which beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate by a penny.
Let's see how things are shaping up for this quarter.
Factors this Past Quarter
Stryker's preliminary fourth quarter and full year 2014 results reflect growing concern over a strong U.S. dollar. The company estimates fourth quarter and full year adjusted earnings in the range of $1.43-$1.45 and $4.72-$4.74 per share, respectively.
The fourth quarter includes a negative foreign exchange impact of roughly 6 cents per share, while the full year is hurt by a negative impact of around 15 cents per share. Given the adverse impact of recent foreign currency movements, Stryker expects 2015 adjusted earnings to be impacted by roughly 20 cents a share.
However, the company estimates strong organic revenue growth of 5.5% and 5.8% for the fourth quarter and full year, respectively. Fourth-quarter revenues are projected to grow 6.1% (or 8.6% in constant currency) year over year to $2.6 billion. The company estimates revenues of $9.7 billion for full-year 2014.
The projected revenue upside can be primarily attributed to robust sales growth at the MedSurg segment. Additionally, Stryker sold 20 Mako Rio Robotic Arm Interactive Systems in the fourth quarter which drove results at the Orthopedics segment.
Earnings Whispers?
Our proven model does not conclusively show that Stryker is likely to beat earnings this quarter. That is because a stock needs to have both a positive Earnings ESP and a Zacks Rank of #1, 2 or at least 3 for this to happen. That is not the case here as you will see below.
Zacks ESP : Stryker has a -0.69% ESP. That is because the Most Accurate estimate stands at $1.44 per share, which is lower than the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.45.
Zacks Rank : Stryker carries a Zacks Rank #4 (Sell).
We caution against stocks with Zacks Rank #4 and 5 (Sell-rated stocks) going into the earnings announcement, especially when the company is seeing negative estimate revisions momentum.
Stocks to Consider
Here are a number of stocks worth considering that, as per our model, have the right combination of elements to post an earnings beat this quarter:
Hologic ( HOLX ) with an Earnings ESP of +2.78% and a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy).
AbbVie ( ABBV ) with an Earnings ESP of +1.18% and a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy).
IntersectENT ( XENT ) with an Earnings ESP of +11.11% and a Zacks Rank #2.
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STRYKER CORP (SYK): Free Stock Analysis Report
HOLOGIC INC (HOLX): Free Stock Analysis Report
ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report
INTERSECT ENT (XENT): Free Stock Analysis Report
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Zacks Investment Research
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | AbbVie ( ABBV ) with an Earnings ESP of +1.18% and a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). Click to get this free report STRYKER CORP (SYK): Free Stock Analysis Report HOLOGIC INC (HOLX): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report INTERSECT ENT (XENT): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. However, the company estimates strong organic revenue growth of 5.5% and 5.8% for the fourth quarter and full year, respectively. | Click to get this free report STRYKER CORP (SYK): Free Stock Analysis Report HOLOGIC INC (HOLX): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report INTERSECT ENT (XENT): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. AbbVie ( ABBV ) with an Earnings ESP of +1.18% and a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). The company estimates fourth quarter and full year adjusted earnings in the range of $1.43-$1.45 and $4.72-$4.74 per share, respectively. | Click to get this free report STRYKER CORP (SYK): Free Stock Analysis Report HOLOGIC INC (HOLX): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report INTERSECT ENT (XENT): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. AbbVie ( ABBV ) with an Earnings ESP of +1.18% and a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). We caution against stocks with Zacks Rank #4 and 5 (Sell-rated stocks) going into the earnings announcement, especially when the company is seeing negative estimate revisions momentum. | AbbVie ( ABBV ) with an Earnings ESP of +1.18% and a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). Click to get this free report STRYKER CORP (SYK): Free Stock Analysis Report HOLOGIC INC (HOLX): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report INTERSECT ENT (XENT): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Last quarter, the company reported earnings of $1.15 per share, which beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate by a penny. | dd65afb1-5c14-4dcc-b79a-e404d170294d |
27127.0 | 2015-01-21 00:00:00 UTC | Why Johnson & Johnson's Stock Could Crater in 2015 | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/why-johnson-johnsons-stock-could-crater-2015-2015-01-21 | nan | nan | Johnson & Johnson is a favorite name among income investors because the stock has a long tradition of beating the broader market and regularly increasing its dividend. In fact, JNJ's dividend has risen for 14 straight years, helping it to trounce the S&P 500 and Dow Jones Industrials over this time period.
The good times appear to be coming to an end, however. As J&J is facing some serious threats to its cash flows and revenue growth in the near term, this stock could be setting up for a major pullback. Here's why.
Pharmaceuticals have been JNJ's growth engine, but that is about to change
Per its fourth-quarter earnings release, J&J's pharmaceutical segment posted a stellar 25% increase in U.S. sales, and a healthy 16.5% rise in worldwide sales for the year. On the flip side, its consumer business saw sales grow by a meager 1%, and its struggling medical-device unit reported a 1.6% decline in sales for the full year. Put simply, J&J's overall growth rate of 4.2% (total annual sales for 2014) can be attributed largely to its pharma business.
Digging into these numbers a bit deeper, we can see that the bulk of this sales growth came from the hepatitis C therapy Olysio. For the full year, Olysio generated $2.3 billion in revenue, composing 7.1% of J&J's total pharma sales during 2014. A single drug was thus responsible for roughly 55% of sales growth within the pharmaceutical arena, based on the fourth-quarter numbers.
As I've discussed previously , Olysio's sales are nonetheless expected to drop by 99% starting in the first quarter of 2015 because of the approval of Gilead Sciences ' Harvoni and AbbVie 's Viekira Pak. Some of the major payers have already left Olysio off of their formulary list altogether, meaning it won't be eligible for reimbursement from these payers.
Source: Janssen.
A new threat is looming
Although the loss of Olysio will undoubtedly have a major impact on J&J's top line, a new threat could cause pharma sales to absolutely crater. What I'm referring to is the looming launch of a generic version of the blockbuster anti-inflammatory drug Remicade in Europe next month, and a possible U.S. launch before the drug's patent expiration in 2018.
In 2014, Remicade sales grew by 4.1%, on an operational basis, to a staggering $6.8 billion, showing the drug's importance to J&J's top and bottom lines. However, Remicade is set to lose patent protection in most European countries next month, and a generic version known as a "biosimilar" called Remsima, manufactured by Celltrion, and Hospira , will launch following this event. Celltrion has also filed for regulatory approval within the U.S. and is attempting to invalidate Remicade's U.S. patents to clear the way for a subsequent commercial launch.
For the most part, J&J's management has brushed aside the threat of a Remicade biosimilar, saying that it expects generics to have minimal impact on the blockbuster's sales. Breaking this down, management essentially believes that doctors won't readily prescribe an untested knock-off version of a biologics-based medicine like Remicade. And therein lies the challenge for Celltrion -- and other biosimilar manufacturers.
Foolish takeaways
I already expect J&J's stock to struggle this year because of the Olysio issue. When those dreadful first-quarter numbers hit the Street, J&J's shares should begin a steep pullback, in my opinion.
And while management's assessment that Remicade sales won't fall off a cliff following the launch of a generic competitor may turn out to be correct, I don't share their enthusiasm. Payers have grown tired of footing the bill for sky-high drug prices, and biologics have been some of the worst offenders in this regard, making generic competition to Remicade a key issue for J&J shareholders to pay attention to this year.
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The article Why Johnson & Johnson's Stock Could Crater in 2015 originally appeared on Fool.com.
George Budwell owns shares of AbbVie and Gilead Sciences. The Motley Fool recommends and owns shares of Gilead Sciences and Johnson & Johnson. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days . We Fools don't all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy .
Copyright © 1995 - 2015 The Motley Fool, LLC. All rights reserved. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy .
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | As I've discussed previously , Olysio's sales are nonetheless expected to drop by 99% starting in the first quarter of 2015 because of the approval of Gilead Sciences ' Harvoni and AbbVie 's Viekira Pak. George Budwell owns shares of AbbVie and Gilead Sciences. However, Remicade is set to lose patent protection in most European countries next month, and a generic version known as a "biosimilar" called Remsima, manufactured by Celltrion, and Hospira , will launch following this event. | As I've discussed previously , Olysio's sales are nonetheless expected to drop by 99% starting in the first quarter of 2015 because of the approval of Gilead Sciences ' Harvoni and AbbVie 's Viekira Pak. George Budwell owns shares of AbbVie and Gilead Sciences. What I'm referring to is the looming launch of a generic version of the blockbuster anti-inflammatory drug Remicade in Europe next month, and a possible U.S. launch before the drug's patent expiration in 2018. | As I've discussed previously , Olysio's sales are nonetheless expected to drop by 99% starting in the first quarter of 2015 because of the approval of Gilead Sciences ' Harvoni and AbbVie 's Viekira Pak. George Budwell owns shares of AbbVie and Gilead Sciences. Pharmaceuticals have been JNJ's growth engine, but that is about to change Per its fourth-quarter earnings release, J&J's pharmaceutical segment posted a stellar 25% increase in U.S. sales, and a healthy 16.5% rise in worldwide sales for the year. | As I've discussed previously , Olysio's sales are nonetheless expected to drop by 99% starting in the first quarter of 2015 because of the approval of Gilead Sciences ' Harvoni and AbbVie 's Viekira Pak. George Budwell owns shares of AbbVie and Gilead Sciences. For the full year, Olysio generated $2.3 billion in revenue, composing 7.1% of J&J's total pharma sales during 2014. | 53acb883-cb14-4db1-ad5d-78c5e3722129 |
27128.0 | 2015-01-20 00:00:00 UTC | Can AbbVie Inc. Overcome Humira’s Looming Patent Expiration? | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/can-abbvie-inc-overcome-humiras-looming-patent-expiration-2015-01-20 | nan | nan | Since its spin off from Abbott Laboratories in Jan. 2013, AbbVie has been on the fast track growth-wise. The double-digit sales growth of its flagship anti-inflammatory drug Humira, and shareholder friendly management, have caused shares to blow away the broader market, shown by the chart below.
Despite this amazing return on investment, management has had to repeatedly reassure investors lately that this growth profile is indeed sustainable for the long-term. At the recent JP Morgan Healthcare Conference, for instance, AbbVie's CFO Bill Chase specifically discussed the company's prospects as a "sustainable growth business" by taking a rather deep dive into its clinical pipeline -- not exactly a normal course of action for a big pharma executive overseeing double-digit revenue growth.
Source: AbbVie
What's keeping AbbVie's shareholders awake at night, of course, is the looming patent expiration for Humira. Humira presently accounts for a highly disproportionate 62% of total sales (via the first nine months of 2014), and more than half of the company's total profits. However, the drug is set to lose patent protection in the U.S. by December 2016.
Are investors right to worry about this event now in 2015?
Humira's patent expiration should be a nonevent
Humira's patent expiration would be a seriously detrimental event if it was accompanied by the typical loss of revenue that has befallen so many former blockbusters. But unlike most of its predecessors, Humira has a competitive moat against generics because it is a biologic, not a small-molecule drug like previous top-selling drugs Lipitor and Plavix.
What this means is that Humira probably won't face any significant generic competition in the form of so-called "biosimilars" until 2019 or perhaps later. The issue is that the legislation outlining the process for creating a biosimilar, and subsequently gaining an approval with the Food and Drug Administration, set an extremely high standard. As such, you shouldn't expect much, if any, revenue drop off from Humira when 2017 rolls around.
Source: Amgen
It took almost five years for the first biosimilar, Novartis ' EP2006 -- a proposed biosimilar for Amgen 's Neupogen -- to even receive a positive opinion from the agency, with many reviewers noting that they only did so because EP2006 has been on the European market for years at this point, making them feel comfortable with the drug's clinical profile.
No biosimilar for Humira currently exists in Europe because the drug's patent won't expire in most EU countries until 2018, making it impossible for a similar scenario to play out.
What's key to understand is that biosimilars can't by their nature be identical copies of an approved drug due to differences in source materials. The approval process is thus a judgement on a company's manufacturing processes, as much as anything, making it particularly costly to pursue a biosimilar. In short, you have to invest heavily in the drug's commercial production before a regulatory review can be undertaken, creating yet another barrier to the entry of generic biologics in general.
Why 2019?
Because Humira is the world's best-selling drug, multiple companies are lining up to develop biosimilars once the drug goes off of patent protection. And indeed, India's Cadila Healthcare has already launched a biosimilar for Humira dubbed "Exemptia" that it hopes can gain worldwide acceptance down the road.
That said, Cadila's own management has conceded that 2019 is probably the earliest the U.S. would grant an approval for a Humira biosimilar due to the initial legwork involved. And the better equipped European biosimilar manufacturers can't throw their hat in the ring until 2018, meaning that Humira should enjoy three to four years of exclusivity in the U.S. past its patent expiration.
Foolish takeaways
AbbVie's management hasn't spent much time talking or writing about Humira's patent expiration for these very reasons. Instead, they have tried to focus investor enthusiasm on the company's top-notch clinical pipeline that should be ready to handle falling Humira revenues by 2019. All told, this simply isn't an issue investors should be concerned about at present -- that is, unless something fundamentally and unforeseen changes with the approval process for biosimilars in the U.S. by the end of 2016. Stranger things have happened, but don't count on it -- I expect AbbVie to continue being a top growth stock for years to come.
For more Foolish coverage of the JP Morgan Healthcare Conference, click here .
The article Can AbbVie Inc. Overcome Humira's Looming Patent Expiration? originally appeared on Fool.com.
George Budwell owns shares of AbbVie Inc. The Motley Fool owns shares of JPMorgan Chase. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days . We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy .
Copyright © 1995 - 2015 The Motley Fool, LLC. All rights reserved. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy .
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | Since its spin off from Abbott Laboratories in Jan. 2013, AbbVie has been on the fast track growth-wise. At the recent JP Morgan Healthcare Conference, for instance, AbbVie's CFO Bill Chase specifically discussed the company's prospects as a "sustainable growth business" by taking a rather deep dive into its clinical pipeline -- not exactly a normal course of action for a big pharma executive overseeing double-digit revenue growth. Source: AbbVie What's keeping AbbVie's shareholders awake at night, of course, is the looming patent expiration for Humira. | At the recent JP Morgan Healthcare Conference, for instance, AbbVie's CFO Bill Chase specifically discussed the company's prospects as a "sustainable growth business" by taking a rather deep dive into its clinical pipeline -- not exactly a normal course of action for a big pharma executive overseeing double-digit revenue growth. Since its spin off from Abbott Laboratories in Jan. 2013, AbbVie has been on the fast track growth-wise. Source: AbbVie What's keeping AbbVie's shareholders awake at night, of course, is the looming patent expiration for Humira. | Since its spin off from Abbott Laboratories in Jan. 2013, AbbVie has been on the fast track growth-wise. At the recent JP Morgan Healthcare Conference, for instance, AbbVie's CFO Bill Chase specifically discussed the company's prospects as a "sustainable growth business" by taking a rather deep dive into its clinical pipeline -- not exactly a normal course of action for a big pharma executive overseeing double-digit revenue growth. Source: AbbVie What's keeping AbbVie's shareholders awake at night, of course, is the looming patent expiration for Humira. | Since its spin off from Abbott Laboratories in Jan. 2013, AbbVie has been on the fast track growth-wise. At the recent JP Morgan Healthcare Conference, for instance, AbbVie's CFO Bill Chase specifically discussed the company's prospects as a "sustainable growth business" by taking a rather deep dive into its clinical pipeline -- not exactly a normal course of action for a big pharma executive overseeing double-digit revenue growth. Source: AbbVie What's keeping AbbVie's shareholders awake at night, of course, is the looming patent expiration for Humira. | a211ad6a-1c11-45f1-bad4-22de50f00812 |
27129.0 | 2015-01-20 00:00:00 UTC | Will Quality Systems (QSII) Surprise Earnings this Quarter? - Analyst Blog | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/will-quality-systems-qsii-surprise-earnings-this-quarter-analyst-blog-2015-01-20 | nan | nan | Quality Systems Inc. ( QSII ) is set to report third-quarter 2015 results on Jan 22. In the previous quarter, the company posted earnings of 12 cents, which missed the Zacks Consensus Estimate by a penny. On an average, Quality Systems delivered negative earnings surprise of 22.83% in the last four quarters.
Let's see how things are shaping up for this quarter.
Factors to Consider this Quarter
We believe that continued strength in Quality System's NextGen division as well as the expected benefit from its Mirth acquisition will drive overall results. Further, strong demand for the other NextGen solutions that include hospitals, EHR and practice management are also expected to drive top-line growth.
NextGen's Inpatient Clinicals, Lab and Patient Portal EHR solutions have also been gaining considerable traction. Moreover, Quality System's NextGen RCM platform continues to win contracts from healthcare providers.
However, we think that higher operating expenses will continue to hinder profitability. Also, a sluggish global economy and a strict regulatory environment remain a headwind for the company.
Earnings Whispers?
Our proven model does not conclusively show that Quality Systems is likely to beat earnings this quarter. That is because a stock needs to have both a positive Earnings ESP and a Zacks Rank #1, 2 or 3 for this to happen. This is not the case here as you will see below.
Zacks ESP : Quality Systems currently has an Earnings ESP of 0.00%. This is because both the Most Accurate estimate and the Zacks Consensus Estimate stand at 13 cents.
Zacks Rank : Quality Systems' Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) increases the predictive power of ESP. However, we also need to have a positive ESP to be confident about an earnings beat.
We caution against stocks with a Zacks Rank #4 and 5 (Sell-rated stocks) going into the earnings announcement, especially when the company is seeing negative estimate revisions momentum.
Other Stocks to Consider
Here are some companies you may want to consider as our model shows they have the right combination of elements to post an earnings beat this quarter:
HCA Holdings ( HCA ) with an Earnings ESP of +5.74% and a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy).
AbbVie ( ABBV ) with an Earnings ESP of +1.18% and a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy).
McKesson Corp ( MCK ) with an Earnings ESP of +1.91% and a Zacks Rank #2.
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | AbbVie ( ABBV ) with an Earnings ESP of +1.18% and a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). Click to get this free report QUALITY SYS (QSII): Free Stock Analysis Report MCKESSON CORP (MCK): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report HCA HOLDINGS (HCA): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. In the previous quarter, the company posted earnings of 12 cents, which missed the Zacks Consensus Estimate by a penny. | Click to get this free report QUALITY SYS (QSII): Free Stock Analysis Report MCKESSON CORP (MCK): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report HCA HOLDINGS (HCA): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. AbbVie ( ABBV ) with an Earnings ESP of +1.18% and a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). Zacks Rank : Quality Systems' Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) increases the predictive power of ESP. | Click to get this free report QUALITY SYS (QSII): Free Stock Analysis Report MCKESSON CORP (MCK): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report HCA HOLDINGS (HCA): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. AbbVie ( ABBV ) with an Earnings ESP of +1.18% and a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). Zacks Rank : Quality Systems' Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) increases the predictive power of ESP. | AbbVie ( ABBV ) with an Earnings ESP of +1.18% and a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). Click to get this free report QUALITY SYS (QSII): Free Stock Analysis Report MCKESSON CORP (MCK): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report HCA HOLDINGS (HCA): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Zacks ESP : Quality Systems currently has an Earnings ESP of 0.00%. | 6c973635-e798-46f8-8ff5-113db514c5b8 |
27130.0 | 2015-01-20 00:00:00 UTC | Sanofi and Boehringer Ingelheim Ink Strategic Deal - Analyst Blog | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/sanofi-and-boehringer-ingelheim-ink-strategic-deal-analyst-blog-2015-01-20 | nan | nan | Deals and agreements are a common practice in the healthcare sector. We have seen several deals, collaborations and acquisitions last year. A number of similar deals have also been made so far this year.
Last week, Sanofi ( SNY ) announced that it has entered into a strategic agreement with Boehringer Ingelheim. The companies will manufacture therapeutic monoclonal antibodies to reinforce Sanofi's manufacturing capacity to support upcoming product launches.
Most of the company's research and development are centered on biologics and almost half of them are monoclonal antibodies (mAbs). The deal will allow Sanofi to access Boehringer Ingelheim's capabilities in Biberach an der Riss, Germany, for the transfer and manufacturing of therapeutic mAbs.
Initial product transfers are expected to start soon. The financial details of the deal were kept under wraps.
We have seen Sanofi often entering into similar deals and collaborations. Last month the company said that it will be acquiring Merck & Co. Inc.'s ( MRK ) manufacturing facility in Barceloneta, Puerto Rico. The successful acquisition of the facility will help Sanofi to expand the global operations of its Animal Health business (read more: Sanofi Buys Merck's Manufacturing Facility in Puerto Rico ).
Meanwhile, 2015 is expected to be a tough year for Sanofi as far as its Pharmaceuticals segment is concerned. The company had earlier said that its diabetes business will remain flat this year. The company's diabetes business is one of the largest contributors to the Pharmaceuticals segment as well as to the company's top line. We expect investor focus to remain on this segment going forward.
Sanofi carries a Zacks Rank #4 (Sell). Some better-ranked companies in the healthcare space are Amgen Inc. ( AMGN ) and AbbVie Inc. ( ABBV ). While Amgen holds a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), AbbVie carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy).
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | Some better-ranked companies in the healthcare space are Amgen Inc. ( AMGN ) and AbbVie Inc. ( ABBV ). While Amgen holds a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), AbbVie carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). Click to get this free report SANOFI-AVENTIS (SNY): Free Stock Analysis Report AMGEN INC (AMGN): Free Stock Analysis Report MERCK & CO INC (MRK): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. | While Amgen holds a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), AbbVie carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). Click to get this free report SANOFI-AVENTIS (SNY): Free Stock Analysis Report AMGEN INC (AMGN): Free Stock Analysis Report MERCK & CO INC (MRK): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Some better-ranked companies in the healthcare space are Amgen Inc. ( AMGN ) and AbbVie Inc. ( ABBV ). | Click to get this free report SANOFI-AVENTIS (SNY): Free Stock Analysis Report AMGEN INC (AMGN): Free Stock Analysis Report MERCK & CO INC (MRK): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Some better-ranked companies in the healthcare space are Amgen Inc. ( AMGN ) and AbbVie Inc. ( ABBV ). While Amgen holds a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), AbbVie carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). | Some better-ranked companies in the healthcare space are Amgen Inc. ( AMGN ) and AbbVie Inc. ( ABBV ). While Amgen holds a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), AbbVie carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). Click to get this free report SANOFI-AVENTIS (SNY): Free Stock Analysis Report AMGEN INC (AMGN): Free Stock Analysis Report MERCK & CO INC (MRK): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. | b727c9eb-2f4b-4d47-b51b-a75fd74584cb |
27131.0 | 2015-01-20 00:00:00 UTC | Novo Nordisk's Xultophy to Launch First in Switzerland - Analyst Blog | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/novo-nordisks-xultophy-to-launch-first-in-switzerland-analyst-blog-2015-01-20 | nan | nan | Novo Nordisk A/S ( NVO ) announced that the company will first launch its combination diabetes drug, Xultophy, in Switzerland.
Xultophy is a single injection combination of Tresiba (basal insulin) and Victoza (a GLP-1 analogue), which has to be administered once-daily, independent of meals. The drug is approved for use in type II diabetes patients who show inadequate control with oral glucose-lowering treatments (used individually or with basal insulin).
We remind investors that Xultophy was approved in Switzerland on Sep 12, 2014. This was followed by the drug's approval in all 28 countries of the EU within the same month. Novo Nordisk intends to commercialize Xultophy in other European countries in 2015.
We note that a number of products in Novo Nordisk's franchise are slated to lose patent protection in the upcoming years. NovoMix will lose patent protection in 2014-2015 in the EU and in 2017 in the U.S., NovoRapid in 2017 (in both the U.S. and the EU), and Levemir in 2018 in the EU and in 2019 in the U.S. In this context, the approval and subsequent launch of Xultophy in Europe is expected to support top-line growth.
Meanwhile, Saxenda has received FDA approval as the first once-daily human glucagon-like peptide-1 analogue for the treatment of obesity. Novo Nordisk intends to launch the drug in the U.S. in the first half of 2015. Saxenda is currently under review by the European Medicines Agency for the same indication.
We expect investor focus to remain on further updates from the company.
Novo Nordisk carries a Zacks Rank #4 (Sell). Some better-ranked stocks in the health care sector are Endo International plc ( ENDP ), Biodel Inc. ( BIOD ) and AbbVie Inc. ( ABBV ). While Endo and Biodel carries a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), AbbVie holds a Zacks Rank#2 (Buy).
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | Some better-ranked stocks in the health care sector are Endo International plc ( ENDP ), Biodel Inc. ( BIOD ) and AbbVie Inc. ( ABBV ). While Endo and Biodel carries a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), AbbVie holds a Zacks Rank#2 (Buy). Click to get this free report ENDO INTL PLC (ENDP): Free Stock Analysis Report NOVO-NORDISK AS (NVO): Free Stock Analysis Report BIODEL INC (BIOD): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. | While Endo and Biodel carries a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), AbbVie holds a Zacks Rank#2 (Buy). Click to get this free report ENDO INTL PLC (ENDP): Free Stock Analysis Report NOVO-NORDISK AS (NVO): Free Stock Analysis Report BIODEL INC (BIOD): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Some better-ranked stocks in the health care sector are Endo International plc ( ENDP ), Biodel Inc. ( BIOD ) and AbbVie Inc. ( ABBV ). | Click to get this free report ENDO INTL PLC (ENDP): Free Stock Analysis Report NOVO-NORDISK AS (NVO): Free Stock Analysis Report BIODEL INC (BIOD): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Some better-ranked stocks in the health care sector are Endo International plc ( ENDP ), Biodel Inc. ( BIOD ) and AbbVie Inc. ( ABBV ). While Endo and Biodel carries a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), AbbVie holds a Zacks Rank#2 (Buy). | Some better-ranked stocks in the health care sector are Endo International plc ( ENDP ), Biodel Inc. ( BIOD ) and AbbVie Inc. ( ABBV ). While Endo and Biodel carries a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), AbbVie holds a Zacks Rank#2 (Buy). Click to get this free report ENDO INTL PLC (ENDP): Free Stock Analysis Report NOVO-NORDISK AS (NVO): Free Stock Analysis Report BIODEL INC (BIOD): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. | 43b78b6e-72b5-4ec4-ad69-299f7a2c271a |
27132.0 | 2015-01-20 00:00:00 UTC | Johnson & Johnson Overcomes Threats from Competitors, Delivers Solid Quarterly Results | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/johnson-johnson-overcomes-threats-competitors-delivers-solid-quarterly-results-2015-01-20 | nan | nan | Source: Johnson & Johnson
Despite two of Johnson & Johnson 's best-selling drugs facing stiffer competition, the company still managed to deliver encouraging sales and earnings during the fourth quarter. After adjusting for currency conversion headwinds, J&J reported that its revenue increased 3.9% year-over-year to $18.3 billion in the quarter, leading to earnings per share, after adjusting for one-time items, of $1.27, up 2.4% from last year.
Managing risk
J&J racked up just shy of $8 billion in sales from its various drugs last quarter, up 13.9% from last year after adjusting for currency. The company reported significant sales growth for its autoimmune drugs Simponi and Stelara, which saw sales climb 36% and 31% year-over year to $346 million and $545 million, respectively. J&J also enjoyed a 19.4% jump in revenue to $418 million for its new, long-lasting schizophrenia drug Invega Sustenna.
That's a solid showing, but J&J's prostate cancer drug Zytiga and hepatitis C drug Olysio are likely the focus of investors today given that both drugs are being challenged by competitors. Zytiga, which is approved as a post chemotherapy and pre chemotherapy prostate cancer treatment, is angling for scripts against Medivation and Astellas ' Xtandi, which was previously approved in post chemotherapy patients and won a label expansion for pre chemotherapy use in September. Olysio, which posted significant sales in the first nine months of the year thanks to use alongside Gilead Sciences ' top selling hep C drug Sovaldi, is under pressure from Gilead Sciences' next generation drug Harvoni, which launched in October, and AbbVie 's Viekira Pak, which won FDA approval in December.
Of the two drugs, Zytiga did a better job of out-maneuvering threats. Despite Xtandi's availability for use in pre-chemotherapy patients during the quarter, Zytiga still generated sales of $595 million for J&J in Q4. Importantly, although Zytiga's quarter-over-quarter growth slowed from 6.68% in the fourth quarter of 2013 to 4.75% last quarter, it still represented growth -- something many feared wouldn't happen.
Olysio's performance was more disappointing. Olysio's sales dropped from $796 million in the third quarter to $321 million in the fourth quarter. The drop shouldn't be a surprise given that J&J has been upfront on its conference calls regarding their expectation for a significant decline in Olysio revenue following Harvoni's launch. After all, doctors aren't very likely to prescribe Sovaldi plus Olysio when they can just prescribe Harvoni -- a single pill that boasts mid 90% cure rates and costs less. Given that backdrop, it may be more of a surprise that Olysio's sales didn't fall further. Regardless, Olysio is likely to continue to see its sales fall from here given that AbbVie's Viekira Pak is also available for use in hepatitis C genotype 1 patients now.
Johnson & Johnson
Big exposure
J&J is one of the globe's biggest drugmakers, but it also generates billions of dollars in sales from consumer goods and medical devices and equipment.
J&J's consumer goods business posted sales of $3.6 billion in the fourth quarter, up 0.9% after removing negative headwinds from currency adjustments. Sales of its consumer goods products in the U.S. were particularly solid at $1.29 billion, up 2.5% year-over-year. Those U.S. results were buoyed by 9% growth in over-the-counter products like Tylenol, Motrin, and Zyrtec.
J&J's results in its medical device business were less enticing. Medical device revenue dropped 9% to $6.65 billion. Even after adjusting for the negative affects of currency, sales still declined by 4.3%. However, investors should know that the sales drop includes the loss of $452 million in revenue associated with its exit from the diagnostics business last June. The brightest spot among J&J's medical device business was arguably cardiovascular, which saw its sales grow 9.8% ex-currency to $558 million from $534 million a year ago.
Connecting dots
The company's widespread presence across healthcare makes it a staple in investor portfolios, and it also means that J&J has one of the most robust R&D operations in the industry. As a result, J&J's pipeline continues to deliver new therapies that help offset risks. For example, sales of the company's anticoagulant Xarelto soared 58% to $428 million and revenue from the oncology drugs that J&J doesn't break out sales for specifically jumped from $94 million to $199 million year-over-year. That suggests that while J&J will be navigating some challenges in 2015, it isn't likely to lose its gold-standard status among investors anytime soon.
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The article Johnson & Johnson Overcomes Threats from Competitors, Delivers Solid Quarterly Results originally appeared on Fool.com.
Todd Campbell owns shares of Gilead Sciences and Medivation,. Todd owns E.B. Capital Markets, LLC. E.B. Capital's clients may or may not have positions in the companies mentioned. The Motley Fool recommends Gilead Sciences and Johnson & Johnson. The Motley Fool owns shares of Gilead Sciences and Johnson & Johnson. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days . We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy .
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | Olysio, which posted significant sales in the first nine months of the year thanks to use alongside Gilead Sciences ' top selling hep C drug Sovaldi, is under pressure from Gilead Sciences' next generation drug Harvoni, which launched in October, and AbbVie 's Viekira Pak, which won FDA approval in December. Regardless, Olysio is likely to continue to see its sales fall from here given that AbbVie's Viekira Pak is also available for use in hepatitis C genotype 1 patients now. J&J's consumer goods business posted sales of $3.6 billion in the fourth quarter, up 0.9% after removing negative headwinds from currency adjustments. | Olysio, which posted significant sales in the first nine months of the year thanks to use alongside Gilead Sciences ' top selling hep C drug Sovaldi, is under pressure from Gilead Sciences' next generation drug Harvoni, which launched in October, and AbbVie 's Viekira Pak, which won FDA approval in December. Regardless, Olysio is likely to continue to see its sales fall from here given that AbbVie's Viekira Pak is also available for use in hepatitis C genotype 1 patients now. J&J's consumer goods business posted sales of $3.6 billion in the fourth quarter, up 0.9% after removing negative headwinds from currency adjustments. | Olysio, which posted significant sales in the first nine months of the year thanks to use alongside Gilead Sciences ' top selling hep C drug Sovaldi, is under pressure from Gilead Sciences' next generation drug Harvoni, which launched in October, and AbbVie 's Viekira Pak, which won FDA approval in December. Regardless, Olysio is likely to continue to see its sales fall from here given that AbbVie's Viekira Pak is also available for use in hepatitis C genotype 1 patients now. Source: Johnson & Johnson Despite two of Johnson & Johnson 's best-selling drugs facing stiffer competition, the company still managed to deliver encouraging sales and earnings during the fourth quarter. | Olysio, which posted significant sales in the first nine months of the year thanks to use alongside Gilead Sciences ' top selling hep C drug Sovaldi, is under pressure from Gilead Sciences' next generation drug Harvoni, which launched in October, and AbbVie 's Viekira Pak, which won FDA approval in December. Regardless, Olysio is likely to continue to see its sales fall from here given that AbbVie's Viekira Pak is also available for use in hepatitis C genotype 1 patients now. Olysio's sales dropped from $796 million in the third quarter to $321 million in the fourth quarter. | 7a9d77ae-60b9-4a60-a974-b1f797ac9868 |
27133.0 | 2015-01-20 00:00:00 UTC | J&J Beats on Q4 Earnings, Revenues Hit by Currency - Analyst Blog | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/jj-beats-q4-earnings-revenues-hit-currency-analyst-blog-2015-01-20 | nan | nan | Johnson & Johnson ( JNJ ), the first among the large health care companies to report fourth quarter and full year 2014 results, beat earnings expectations yet again. The company's fourth-quarter 2014 earnings (excluding special items) were $1.27 per share, a couple of cents above the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.25 per share and 2.4% above the year-ago earnings.
Johnson & Johnson - Quarterly EPS | FindTheBest
Fourth quarter sales, however, fell short of expectations. Fourth quarter sales of $18.3 billion were just shy of the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $18.5 billion and down 0.6% from the year-ago period.
While operational factors favorably impacted sales by 3.9%, currency fluctuations had a negative impact of 4.5%.
Including one-time items, Johnson & Johnson reported fourth quarter earnings of 89 cents per share, well below the year-ago earnings of $1.23 per share.
Full year earnings came in at $5.97 per share (up 8.2% year-over-year) on revenues of $74.3 billion (up 4.2% year-over-year).
Revenues Hit by Currency
Fourth quarter sales increased 7.4% in the domestic market. Meanwhile, international sales declined 6.7%, consisting of 1.2% operational growth and 7.9% negative currency impact. Once again, the Pharmaceutical segment recorded sales growth with the remaining two segments recording a decline in sales.
Pharmaceutical segment sales increased 9.6% year-over-year to $8 billion (operational growth of 13.9%). Sales in the domestic market increased 22.7% to $4.4 billion, whereas international sales declined 2.7% to $3.6 billion.
New products like Zytiga, Stelara, Xarelto and Invega Sustenna continued to perform well. However, hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment Olysio fell 59.7% sequentially. Remicade sales also declined 2.3% during the reported quarter.
Other growth drivers include Simponi. Fourth quarter Zytiga sales were $595 million, up 20.2% year-over-year. Launch in additional countries and label expansion for use in chemo-naïve patients should continue driving sales.
The Medical Devices & Diagnostics segment posted sales of $6.6 billion, down 9% from the year-ago period comprising an operational decline of 4.7% and a negative currency movement of 4.3%.
Sales in the domestic market declined 7.7% year-over year to $2.9 billion; international market sales fell 10% year-over-year to $3.7 billion.
Several Medical Devices & Diagnostics markets have been facing challenges in the form of austerity measures, pricing pressure and a slowdown in elective surgeries, which have all contributed to more tempered growth rates. Cardiovascular Care was the only sub-segment to record growth. The Vision Care business continued with its disappointing performance most likely reflecting competitive pricing dynamics.
The Consumer segment recorded revenues of $3.6 billion in the reported quarter, down 3.9% from the fourth quarter of 2013. Foreign currency movement negatively impacted sales in the segment by 4.8%. Sales in the domestic market increased 2.5% year-over-year to $1.3 billion.
Meanwhile, the international segment recorded sales decline of 7.1% with currency having a negative impact of 7.2%. OTC sales increased 9% in the U.S. with some key products being re-launched. Johnson & Johnson has been working on ensuring reliable and consistent supply of products.
2015 Guidance
J&J expects 2015 earnings in the range of $6.12 to $6.27 per share. Starting from 2015, adjusted earnings will exclude after-tax intangible amortization expense in addition to special items. After-tax intangible amortization expense for 2014 was about 42 cents per share in 2014 and is expected to be approximately 32 cents per share this year.
Our Take
Although Johnson & Johnson's fourth quarter earnings were better-than-expected, sales fell short mainly due to a negative currency impact. Currency will continue to have a negative impact on 2015 numbers.
The huge sequential decline in Olysio sales is quite disappointing. Olysio, one of J&J's new and promising product offerings, will continue to be impacted by the changing competitive dynamics in the HCV market. The decline in Remicade sales is also disappointing.
Meanwhile, a closer look at the company's 2015 guidance, which excludes after-tax intangible amortization expense, shows that after adjusting the amortization expense numbers provided by the company, J&J is headed for a decline in year-over-year earnings.
Johnson & Johnson is a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) stock. Companies that currently look attractive in the health care space include Amgen ( AMGN ), Celgene Corp. ( CELG ) and AbbVie ( ABBV ). While Amgen and Celgene are Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) stocks, AbbVie is a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) stock.
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | Companies that currently look attractive in the health care space include Amgen ( AMGN ), Celgene Corp. ( CELG ) and AbbVie ( ABBV ). While Amgen and Celgene are Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) stocks, AbbVie is a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) stock. Click to get this free report JOHNSON & JOHNS (JNJ): Free Stock Analysis Report CELGENE CORP (CELG): Free Stock Analysis Report AMGEN INC (AMGN): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. | Click to get this free report JOHNSON & JOHNS (JNJ): Free Stock Analysis Report CELGENE CORP (CELG): Free Stock Analysis Report AMGEN INC (AMGN): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Companies that currently look attractive in the health care space include Amgen ( AMGN ), Celgene Corp. ( CELG ) and AbbVie ( ABBV ). While Amgen and Celgene are Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) stocks, AbbVie is a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) stock. | Click to get this free report JOHNSON & JOHNS (JNJ): Free Stock Analysis Report CELGENE CORP (CELG): Free Stock Analysis Report AMGEN INC (AMGN): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Companies that currently look attractive in the health care space include Amgen ( AMGN ), Celgene Corp. ( CELG ) and AbbVie ( ABBV ). While Amgen and Celgene are Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) stocks, AbbVie is a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) stock. | Companies that currently look attractive in the health care space include Amgen ( AMGN ), Celgene Corp. ( CELG ) and AbbVie ( ABBV ). While Amgen and Celgene are Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) stocks, AbbVie is a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) stock. Click to get this free report JOHNSON & JOHNS (JNJ): Free Stock Analysis Report CELGENE CORP (CELG): Free Stock Analysis Report AMGEN INC (AMGN): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. | 68e86520-44ed-4eff-a90a-c77012e584a7 |
27134.0 | 2015-01-20 00:00:00 UTC | Will Intuitive Surgical (ISRG) Disappoint Earnings in Q4? - Analyst Blog | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/will-intuitive-surgical-isrg-disappoint-earnings-in-q4-analyst-blog-2015-01-20 | nan | nan | Intuitive Surgical Inc. ( ISRG ) is set to report fourth-quarter 2014 results on Jan 22. Last quarter, Intuitive Surgical reported earnings of $3.24 per share, which beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 56 cents.
Let's see how things are shaping up for this quarter.
Factors at Play
We believe that the company is witnessing an increased adoption of its da Vinci system in U.S. general surgery procedures and worldwide urologic procedures. Remarkably, in 2014, nearly 570,000 surgical procedures were performed with the da Vinci Surgical system.
Intuitive Surgical estimates da Vinci procedure growth of roughly 10% and 9% year over year for the fourth-quarter and full-year 2014, respectively.
Though the company's flagship da Vinci system is instrumental in driving top-line growth, we feel that the high price of the systems may slightly hinder its widespread adoption. Moreover, adoption growth takes time, as each procedure needs to gain credibility.
We note that Intuitive Surgical placed only 431 da Vinci surgical systems during 2014, compared with 546 systems during 2013. Consequently, da Vinci systems revenues are estimated to decrease nearly 24% to $633 million in 2014.
Earnings Whispers?
Our proven model does not conclusively show that Intuitive Surgical is likely to beat earnings this quarter. That is because a stock needs to have both a positive Earnings ESP and a Zacks Rank #1, 2 or 3 for this to happen. That is not the case here as you will see below.
Zacks ESP : Intuitive Surgical has a -0.30% ESP. That is because the Most Accurate estimate stands at $3.38 per share, lower than the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $3.39.
Zacks Rank : Intuitive Surgical has a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) which increases the predictive power of ESP; but when combined with a -0.30% ESP, it makes surprise prediction difficult.
We caution against stocks with Zacks Rank #4 and 5 (Sell-rated stocks) going into the earnings announcement, especially when the company is seeing negative estimate revisions momentum.
Stocks to Consider
Here are a few stocks worth considering that, per our model, have the right combination of elements to post an earnings beat this quarter:
HCA Holdings ( HCA ) with an Earnings ESP of +5.74% and a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy).
AbbVie ( ABBV ) with an Earnings ESP of +1.18% and a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy).
McKesson Corp ( MCK ) with an Earnings ESP of +1.91% and a Zacks Rank #2.
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | AbbVie ( ABBV ) with an Earnings ESP of +1.18% and a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). Click to get this free report INTUITIVE SURG (ISRG): Free Stock Analysis Report MCKESSON CORP (MCK): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report HCA HOLDINGS (HCA): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Last quarter, Intuitive Surgical reported earnings of $3.24 per share, which beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 56 cents. | Click to get this free report INTUITIVE SURG (ISRG): Free Stock Analysis Report MCKESSON CORP (MCK): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report HCA HOLDINGS (HCA): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. AbbVie ( ABBV ) with an Earnings ESP of +1.18% and a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). Last quarter, Intuitive Surgical reported earnings of $3.24 per share, which beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 56 cents. | Click to get this free report INTUITIVE SURG (ISRG): Free Stock Analysis Report MCKESSON CORP (MCK): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report HCA HOLDINGS (HCA): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. AbbVie ( ABBV ) with an Earnings ESP of +1.18% and a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). Zacks Rank : Intuitive Surgical has a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) which increases the predictive power of ESP; but when combined with a -0.30% ESP, it makes surprise prediction difficult. | AbbVie ( ABBV ) with an Earnings ESP of +1.18% and a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). Click to get this free report INTUITIVE SURG (ISRG): Free Stock Analysis Report MCKESSON CORP (MCK): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report HCA HOLDINGS (HCA): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Last quarter, Intuitive Surgical reported earnings of $3.24 per share, which beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 56 cents. | ae79387c-759a-4059-b705-f4b680bf1715 |
27135.0 | 2015-01-19 00:00:00 UTC | Roche to Acquire French Biotechnology Company Trophos - Analyst Blog | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/roche-to-acquire-french-biotechnology-company-trophos-analyst-blog-2015-01-19 | nan | nan | Roche ( RHHBY ) announced that it will acquire privately-held French biotechnology company Trophos.
Trophos is developing its pipeline candidate olesoxime (TRO19622) for spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), a rare and debilitating genetic neuromuscular disease commonly diagnosed in children.
As per the terms of the agreement, shareholders of Trophos will receive an upfront cash payment of €120 million, plus milestone payments of up to €350 million.
The candidate enjoys orphan drug status in both the U.S. and the EU. We note that Trophos had presented encouraging data at the annual meeting of the American Academy of Neurology in April 2014. Results from a pivotal phase II clinical trial on olesoxime that showed a beneficial effect on the maintenance of neuromuscular function in patients with type II and non-ambulatory type III SMA were presented at the meeting. The study also showed a significant reduction in medical complications associated with the disease.
Roche specializes in drugs for oncology, immunology and infectious diseases. Apart from providing therapeutic products and services for diverse medical needs, the company focuses on innovative diagnostic solutions for early detection and treatment of diseases.
We are encouraged by Roche's performance in 2014. Its oncology portfolio looks solid as ever and we expect further traction. We are also impressed by the company's efforts to grow beyond oncology to immunology and ophthalmology.
The Trophos acquisition will enable Roche to develop medicines for SMA and take it a step toward its aim to develop a portfolio beyond on oncology.
Roche currently carries a Zacks Rank #5 (Strong Sell). Some better-ranked stocks in the health care sector include AbbVie ( ABBV ), Allergan ( AGN ) and Shire ( SHPG ). All these stocks carry a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy).
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | Some better-ranked stocks in the health care sector include AbbVie ( ABBV ), Allergan ( AGN ) and Shire ( SHPG ). Click to get this free report ROCHE HLDG LTD (RHHBY): Free Stock Analysis Report ALLERGAN INC (AGN): Free Stock Analysis Report SHIRE PLC-ADR (SHPG): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Trophos is developing its pipeline candidate olesoxime (TRO19622) for spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), a rare and debilitating genetic neuromuscular disease commonly diagnosed in children. | Some better-ranked stocks in the health care sector include AbbVie ( ABBV ), Allergan ( AGN ) and Shire ( SHPG ). Click to get this free report ROCHE HLDG LTD (RHHBY): Free Stock Analysis Report ALLERGAN INC (AGN): Free Stock Analysis Report SHIRE PLC-ADR (SHPG): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Zacks Investment Research The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | Click to get this free report ROCHE HLDG LTD (RHHBY): Free Stock Analysis Report ALLERGAN INC (AGN): Free Stock Analysis Report SHIRE PLC-ADR (SHPG): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Some better-ranked stocks in the health care sector include AbbVie ( ABBV ), Allergan ( AGN ) and Shire ( SHPG ). The Trophos acquisition will enable Roche to develop medicines for SMA and take it a step toward its aim to develop a portfolio beyond on oncology. | Some better-ranked stocks in the health care sector include AbbVie ( ABBV ), Allergan ( AGN ) and Shire ( SHPG ). Click to get this free report ROCHE HLDG LTD (RHHBY): Free Stock Analysis Report ALLERGAN INC (AGN): Free Stock Analysis Report SHIRE PLC-ADR (SHPG): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Trophos is developing its pipeline candidate olesoxime (TRO19622) for spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), a rare and debilitating genetic neuromuscular disease commonly diagnosed in children. | 35ff0c4c-7181-4eee-a387-9f790e0fc6c4 |
27136.0 | 2015-01-19 00:00:00 UTC | Will Pharmaceutical Segment Drive J&J Q4 Earnings Again? - Analyst Blog | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/will-pharmaceutical-segment-drive-jj-q4-earnings-again-analyst-blog-2015-01-19 | nan | nan | Johnson & Johnson ( JNJ ), one of the most well-known names in the overall health care sector specially the pharma, consumer health care and medical devices segments, will be reporting fourth quarter and full year 2014 results on Jan 20, before the opening bell.
J&J's track record has been pretty good in the first nine months of 2014 with the company beating earnings estimates by a wide margin. The average earnings surprise over the last four quarters is 5.2%.
Pharma Products and New Products - The Growth Drivers
Will pharma product sales and newly launched products, which have been driving the company's performance in the last few quarters, continue to be the driving force in the fourth quarter?
New products like Zytiga, Invokana, Stelara, Xarelto, Imbruvica and Invega Sustenna should keep performing well. Zytiga (prostate cancer) should benefit from launch in additional countries and label expansion for use in chemo-naïve patients.
Remicade, Simponi and Prezista will also drive growth. While recent entrant Olysio/Sovriad (hepatitis C virus - HCV) performed exceptionally well in the third quarter of 2014, competition in the HCV market is heating up with AbbVie ( ABBV ) receiving approval for its HCV treatment, Viekira Pak. Pricing pressure could very well restrict sales.
Meanwhile, products like Aciphex and Concerta will continue to be affected by generic competition.
Turning to the Worldwide Medical Devices and Diagnostic segment, growth has been under pressure due to several factors like austerity measures, pricing pressure and a slowdown in elective surgeries. However, there has been a modest improvement in hospital utilization rates over the past two quarters. Utilization rates should continue increasing as economies recover.
As far as the Consumer Care segment is concerned, focus will remain on the restoring and re-launch of U.S. OTC products.
At the time of presenting third quarter results, J&J had guided towards 2014 earnings of $5.92 - $5.97 per share on revenues of approximately $74 billion - $75 billion. Guidance assumes no biosimilar competition for Procrit in 2014 or generic competition for Invega Sustenna and Risperdal. Currency movement will remain a significant headwind and affect the top-and bottom-line.
Apart from fourth quarter results, investor focus will be on the company's outlook for 2015 including the impact of currency movement, the company's outlook on Olysio given the changing competitive dynamics in the HCV market, expected generic competition and plans for utilization of cash.
What Our Model Indicates
Our proven model does not conclusively show that J&J is likely to beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate in the fourth quarter. That is because a stock needs to have both a positive Earnings ESP and a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) or better for increasing the odds of an earnings surprise. Unfortunately, this is not the case as elaborated below.
Zacks ESP: The Earnings ESP for J&J is 0.00%. This is because both the Most Accurate estimate and the Zacks Consensus Estimate are $1.25 per share.
Zacks Rank: JNJ's Zacks Rank #3 increases the predictive power of ESP. But we also need to have a positive ESP to be confident of an earnings surprise call.
Stocks That Warrant a Look
Here are some health care stocks that you may want to consider, as our model shows that these have the right combination of elements to post an earnings beat this quarter.
Pfizer ( PFE ) has an Earnings ESP of +1.89% and carries a Zacks Rank #3. It is scheduled to report results on Jan 27.
The Earnings ESP for Eli Lilly and Company ( LLY ) is +1.37% and it carries a Zacks Rank #3. The company is scheduled to release results on Jan 30.
AbbVie, which is also slated to report on Jan 30, has an Earnings ESP of 1.18% and a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy).
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | While recent entrant Olysio/Sovriad (hepatitis C virus - HCV) performed exceptionally well in the third quarter of 2014, competition in the HCV market is heating up with AbbVie ( ABBV ) receiving approval for its HCV treatment, Viekira Pak. AbbVie, which is also slated to report on Jan 30, has an Earnings ESP of 1.18% and a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). Click to get this free report PFIZER INC (PFE): Free Stock Analysis Report LILLY ELI & CO (LLY): Free Stock Analysis Report JOHNSON & JOHNS (JNJ): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. | Click to get this free report PFIZER INC (PFE): Free Stock Analysis Report LILLY ELI & CO (LLY): Free Stock Analysis Report JOHNSON & JOHNS (JNJ): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. While recent entrant Olysio/Sovriad (hepatitis C virus - HCV) performed exceptionally well in the third quarter of 2014, competition in the HCV market is heating up with AbbVie ( ABBV ) receiving approval for its HCV treatment, Viekira Pak. AbbVie, which is also slated to report on Jan 30, has an Earnings ESP of 1.18% and a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). | Click to get this free report PFIZER INC (PFE): Free Stock Analysis Report LILLY ELI & CO (LLY): Free Stock Analysis Report JOHNSON & JOHNS (JNJ): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. While recent entrant Olysio/Sovriad (hepatitis C virus - HCV) performed exceptionally well in the third quarter of 2014, competition in the HCV market is heating up with AbbVie ( ABBV ) receiving approval for its HCV treatment, Viekira Pak. AbbVie, which is also slated to report on Jan 30, has an Earnings ESP of 1.18% and a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). | While recent entrant Olysio/Sovriad (hepatitis C virus - HCV) performed exceptionally well in the third quarter of 2014, competition in the HCV market is heating up with AbbVie ( ABBV ) receiving approval for its HCV treatment, Viekira Pak. AbbVie, which is also slated to report on Jan 30, has an Earnings ESP of 1.18% and a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). Click to get this free report PFIZER INC (PFE): Free Stock Analysis Report LILLY ELI & CO (LLY): Free Stock Analysis Report JOHNSON & JOHNS (JNJ): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. | 247ecc24-5a35-4273-972e-5cc95de4c3c3 |
27137.0 | 2015-01-19 00:00:00 UTC | Will Logitech (LOGI) Keep the Earnings Streak Alive in Q3? - Analyst Blog | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/will-logitech-logi-keep-the-earnings-streak-alive-in-q3-analyst-blog-2015-01-19 | nan | nan | Logitech International SA ( LOGI ) is set to report third-quarter 2014 results on Jan 22. The company delivered a positive surprise of 55.56% in the preceding quarter. Furthermore, it posted positive earnings surprise in all of the last four quarters with an average beat of around 375%. Let's consider some important factors that may affect the upcoming results.
Factors Influencing This Quarter
Logitech has been benefiting from the growing adoption of new mobile platforms, such as tablets and smartphones, in both mature and emerging markets. Further, the company, by pursuing innovation and expanding its product lines, is intending to tap the high-potential market for accessories. Recently, the company introduced a couple of new products for its Lifesize cloud video conferencing service.
Additionally, Logitech recently declared the collaboration of its mobile speaker brand, Ultimate Ears ('UE') with CSR plc ( CSRE ) - a semiconductor company - for enhancing the user experience of its UE BOOM and UE MEGABOOM speakers. The company's mobile speaker business has remained sturdy over the past one year, driven by strength in the UE BOOM. Encouragingly, this has turned out to be the company's highest selling product for the last few quarters.
Further, Logitech has been undertaking initiatives for restructuring operations and minimizing costs, which are already aiding its profits and margins. This apart, a strong financial position and the company's commitment to return value to its shareholders through dividends and share repurchases remain the positives.
Earnings Whispers?
Our proven model does not conclusively show that Logitech is likely to beat earnings this quarter. That is because a stock needs to have both a positive Earnings ESP and a Zacks Rank of #1, 2 or 3 for this to happen. That is not the case here as you will see below.
Zacks ESP: The Earning ESP is 0.00%. That is because both the Most Accurate estimate and the Zacks Consensus Estimate stand at 31 cents. Hence, the difference is 0.00%.
Zacks Rank: Logitech sports a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), but we need to have a positive ESP as well to be confident about an earnings surprise.
We caution against stocks with Zacks Rank #4 and #5 (Sell-rated stocks) going into the earnings announcement, especially when the company is seeing negative estimate revisions momentum.
Other Stocks to Consider
Here are some other companies you may want to consider as our model shows they have the right combination of elements to post an earnings beat this quarter:
AbbVie Inc. ( ABBV ), with an Earnings ESP of +1.18% and a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy).
Dana Holding Corporation ( DAN ), with an Earnings ESP of + 10.87% and a Zacks Rank #2.
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | Other Stocks to Consider Here are some other companies you may want to consider as our model shows they have the right combination of elements to post an earnings beat this quarter: AbbVie Inc. ( ABBV ), with an Earnings ESP of +1.18% and a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). Click to get this free report LOGITECH INTL (LOGI): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report DANA HOLDING CP (DAN): Free Stock Analysis Report CSR PLC-ADR (CSRE): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Factors Influencing This Quarter Logitech has been benefiting from the growing adoption of new mobile platforms, such as tablets and smartphones, in both mature and emerging markets. | Other Stocks to Consider Here are some other companies you may want to consider as our model shows they have the right combination of elements to post an earnings beat this quarter: AbbVie Inc. ( ABBV ), with an Earnings ESP of +1.18% and a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). Click to get this free report LOGITECH INTL (LOGI): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report DANA HOLDING CP (DAN): Free Stock Analysis Report CSR PLC-ADR (CSRE): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Zacks Investment Research The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | Other Stocks to Consider Here are some other companies you may want to consider as our model shows they have the right combination of elements to post an earnings beat this quarter: AbbVie Inc. ( ABBV ), with an Earnings ESP of +1.18% and a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). Click to get this free report LOGITECH INTL (LOGI): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report DANA HOLDING CP (DAN): Free Stock Analysis Report CSR PLC-ADR (CSRE): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Zacks Rank: Logitech sports a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), but we need to have a positive ESP as well to be confident about an earnings surprise. | Other Stocks to Consider Here are some other companies you may want to consider as our model shows they have the right combination of elements to post an earnings beat this quarter: AbbVie Inc. ( ABBV ), with an Earnings ESP of +1.18% and a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). Click to get this free report LOGITECH INTL (LOGI): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report DANA HOLDING CP (DAN): Free Stock Analysis Report CSR PLC-ADR (CSRE): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. That is because a stock needs to have both a positive Earnings ESP and a Zacks Rank of #1, 2 or 3 for this to happen. | 4667799d-1de6-477e-a01d-2be535740002 |
27138.0 | 2015-01-19 00:00:00 UTC | Is 1 Drug Really Outselling Legalized Marijuana? | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/1-drug-really-outselling-legalized-marijuana-2015-01-19 | nan | nan | AbbVie has also raised its dividend twice within the past year and will probably do so again in 2015, as it ramps up its hepatitis C therapy Viekira Pak.
If you bought in right after the split and reinvested the dividends, this seemingly boring health care stock would have more than doubled your money -- all the while having nowhere near the level of volatility seen in marijuana stocks.
They may not make you rich overnight, but dividend-paying companies such as AbbVie are proven long-term winners. Marijuana stocks, on the other hand, are likely to see more volatility as the legal process unfolds and simply don't offer a straightforward path toward wealth creation.
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George Budwell owns shares of AbbVie and Gilead Sciences. The Motley Fool recommends and owns shares of Gilead Sciences. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days . We Fools don't all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy .
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | AbbVie has also raised its dividend twice within the past year and will probably do so again in 2015, as it ramps up its hepatitis C therapy Viekira Pak. They may not make you rich overnight, but dividend-paying companies such as AbbVie are proven long-term winners. George Budwell owns shares of AbbVie and Gilead Sciences. | The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. AbbVie has also raised its dividend twice within the past year and will probably do so again in 2015, as it ramps up its hepatitis C therapy Viekira Pak. They may not make you rich overnight, but dividend-paying companies such as AbbVie are proven long-term winners. | AbbVie has also raised its dividend twice within the past year and will probably do so again in 2015, as it ramps up its hepatitis C therapy Viekira Pak. They may not make you rich overnight, but dividend-paying companies such as AbbVie are proven long-term winners. George Budwell owns shares of AbbVie and Gilead Sciences. | AbbVie has also raised its dividend twice within the past year and will probably do so again in 2015, as it ramps up its hepatitis C therapy Viekira Pak. They may not make you rich overnight, but dividend-paying companies such as AbbVie are proven long-term winners. George Budwell owns shares of AbbVie and Gilead Sciences. | ae9ac597-d5f2-4eea-81fb-18ea41a165f7 |
27139.0 | 2015-01-19 00:00:00 UTC | AbbVie Gains EU Approval for Hepatitis C Virus Treatment - Analyst Blog | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/abbvie-gains-eu-approval-hepatitis-c-virus-treatment-analyst-blog-2015-01-19 | nan | nan | AbbVie's ( ABBV ) all-oral, short-course, interferon-free hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment is now approved in the EU under the trade name Viekirax + Exviera. The treatment can be used with or without ribavirin (RBV) in patients with genotype 1 (GT1) chronic HCV infection, including those with compensated liver cirrhosis.
EU approval was largely expected as the Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP) of the European Medicines Agency (EMA) had issued a positive opinion late last year. With Viekirax + Exviera getting EU approval, competition in the HCV market in the EU will increase.
We note that AbbVie's HCV treatment had gained FDA approval in late Dec 2014 under the trade name Viekira Pak. Shortly after gaining approval, pharmacy benefit manager (PBM) Express Scripts ( ESRX ) announced its decision to add Viekira Pak to its formulary and offer it as an exclusive option for genotype 1 HCV patients, starting Jan 1, 2015 (Read more: Express Scripts Picks AbbVie's Hepatitis C Drug ).
The PBM also announced that HCV treatments like Olysio and Gilead's ( GILD ) Sovaldi and Harvoni would be removed from the National Preferred Formulary. While high rates of response and tolerability coupled with low discontinuation rates should help Viekira Pak gain share, pricing will play an equally important role.
In fact, a lot is being said about the HCV pricing battle between AbbVie and Gilead with Gilead signing up with PBMs and health care benefit companies for Sovaldi and Harvoni.
AbbVie is scheduled to report fourth quarter and full year 2014 results on Jan 30. We expect investor focus to remain on the company's strategy for its HCV treatment and sales expectations for 2015.
AbbVie is a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) stock. A better-ranked stock in the health care sector is Amgen ( AMGN ) with a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy).
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | AbbVie's ( ABBV ) all-oral, short-course, interferon-free hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment is now approved in the EU under the trade name Viekirax + Exviera. Shortly after gaining approval, pharmacy benefit manager (PBM) Express Scripts ( ESRX ) announced its decision to add Viekira Pak to its formulary and offer it as an exclusive option for genotype 1 HCV patients, starting Jan 1, 2015 (Read more: Express Scripts Picks AbbVie's Hepatitis C Drug ). We note that AbbVie's HCV treatment had gained FDA approval in late Dec 2014 under the trade name Viekira Pak. | Shortly after gaining approval, pharmacy benefit manager (PBM) Express Scripts ( ESRX ) announced its decision to add Viekira Pak to its formulary and offer it as an exclusive option for genotype 1 HCV patients, starting Jan 1, 2015 (Read more: Express Scripts Picks AbbVie's Hepatitis C Drug ). Click to get this free report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report GILEAD SCIENCES (GILD): Free Stock Analysis Report AMGEN INC (AMGN): Free Stock Analysis Report EXPRESS SCRIPTS (ESRX): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. AbbVie's ( ABBV ) all-oral, short-course, interferon-free hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment is now approved in the EU under the trade name Viekirax + Exviera. | Shortly after gaining approval, pharmacy benefit manager (PBM) Express Scripts ( ESRX ) announced its decision to add Viekira Pak to its formulary and offer it as an exclusive option for genotype 1 HCV patients, starting Jan 1, 2015 (Read more: Express Scripts Picks AbbVie's Hepatitis C Drug ). Click to get this free report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report GILEAD SCIENCES (GILD): Free Stock Analysis Report AMGEN INC (AMGN): Free Stock Analysis Report EXPRESS SCRIPTS (ESRX): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. AbbVie's ( ABBV ) all-oral, short-course, interferon-free hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment is now approved in the EU under the trade name Viekirax + Exviera. | We note that AbbVie's HCV treatment had gained FDA approval in late Dec 2014 under the trade name Viekira Pak. AbbVie is a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) stock. Click to get this free report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report GILEAD SCIENCES (GILD): Free Stock Analysis Report AMGEN INC (AMGN): Free Stock Analysis Report EXPRESS SCRIPTS (ESRX): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. | 51541b6f-7f0c-43bb-bdef-37d9e16e81ea |
27140.0 | 2015-01-16 00:00:00 UTC | Vanguard Growth ETF Experiences Big Inflow | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/vanguard-growth-etf-experiences-big-inflow-2015-01-16 | nan | nan | Looking today at week-over-week shares outstanding changes among the universe of ETFs covered at ETF Channel , one standout is the Vanguard Growth ETF (Symbol: VUG) where we have detected an approximate $151.6 million dollar inflow -- that's a 0.9% increase week over week in outstanding units (from 166,604,595 to 168,104,869). Among the largest underlying components of VUG, in trading today Amgen Inc (Symbol: AMGN) is up about 1.1%, AbbVie Inc. (Symbol: ABBV) is up about 0.1%, and Celgene Corp. (Symbol: CELG) is up by about 0.7%. For a complete list of holdings, visit the VUG Holdings page » The chart below shows the one year price performance of VUG, versus its 200 day moving average:
Looking at the chart above, VUG's low point in its 52 week range is $88.02 per share, with $106.10 as the 52 week high point - that compares with a last trade of $101.33. Comparing the most recent share price to the 200 day moving average can also be a useful technical analysis technique -- learn more about the 200 day moving average » .
Exchange traded funds (ETFs) trade just like stocks, but instead of ''shares'' investors are actually buying and selling ''units''. These ''units'' can be traded back and forth just like stocks, but can also be created or destroyed to accommodate investor demand. Each week we monitor the week-over-week change in shares outstanding data, to keep a lookout for those ETFs experiencing notable inflows (many new units created) or outflows (many old units destroyed). Creation of new units will mean the underlying holdings of the ETF need to be purchased, while destruction of units involves selling underlying holdings, so large flows can also impact the individual components held within ETFs.
Click here to find out which 9 other ETFs had notable inflows »
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | Among the largest underlying components of VUG, in trading today Amgen Inc (Symbol: AMGN) is up about 1.1%, AbbVie Inc. (Symbol: ABBV) is up about 0.1%, and Celgene Corp. (Symbol: CELG) is up by about 0.7%. For a complete list of holdings, visit the VUG Holdings page » The chart below shows the one year price performance of VUG, versus its 200 day moving average: Looking at the chart above, VUG's low point in its 52 week range is $88.02 per share, with $106.10 as the 52 week high point - that compares with a last trade of $101.33. These ''units'' can be traded back and forth just like stocks, but can also be created or destroyed to accommodate investor demand. | Among the largest underlying components of VUG, in trading today Amgen Inc (Symbol: AMGN) is up about 1.1%, AbbVie Inc. (Symbol: ABBV) is up about 0.1%, and Celgene Corp. (Symbol: CELG) is up by about 0.7%. For a complete list of holdings, visit the VUG Holdings page » The chart below shows the one year price performance of VUG, versus its 200 day moving average: Looking at the chart above, VUG's low point in its 52 week range is $88.02 per share, with $106.10 as the 52 week high point - that compares with a last trade of $101.33. Click here to find out which 9 other ETFs had notable inflows » The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | Among the largest underlying components of VUG, in trading today Amgen Inc (Symbol: AMGN) is up about 1.1%, AbbVie Inc. (Symbol: ABBV) is up about 0.1%, and Celgene Corp. (Symbol: CELG) is up by about 0.7%. Looking today at week-over-week shares outstanding changes among the universe of ETFs covered at ETF Channel , one standout is the Vanguard Growth ETF (Symbol: VUG) where we have detected an approximate $151.6 million dollar inflow -- that's a 0.9% increase week over week in outstanding units (from 166,604,595 to 168,104,869). For a complete list of holdings, visit the VUG Holdings page » The chart below shows the one year price performance of VUG, versus its 200 day moving average: Looking at the chart above, VUG's low point in its 52 week range is $88.02 per share, with $106.10 as the 52 week high point - that compares with a last trade of $101.33. | Among the largest underlying components of VUG, in trading today Amgen Inc (Symbol: AMGN) is up about 1.1%, AbbVie Inc. (Symbol: ABBV) is up about 0.1%, and Celgene Corp. (Symbol: CELG) is up by about 0.7%. Looking today at week-over-week shares outstanding changes among the universe of ETFs covered at ETF Channel , one standout is the Vanguard Growth ETF (Symbol: VUG) where we have detected an approximate $151.6 million dollar inflow -- that's a 0.9% increase week over week in outstanding units (from 166,604,595 to 168,104,869). For a complete list of holdings, visit the VUG Holdings page » The chart below shows the one year price performance of VUG, versus its 200 day moving average: Looking at the chart above, VUG's low point in its 52 week range is $88.02 per share, with $106.10 as the 52 week high point - that compares with a last trade of $101.33. | 23f6e314-2880-4a3a-9d18-d879502f00a6 |
27141.0 | 2015-01-16 00:00:00 UTC | Health Care Sector Update for 01/16/2015: CASI, JNJ, ABBV | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/health-care-sector-update-01162015-casi-jnj-abbv-2015-01-16 | nan | nan | Top Health-care stocks:
JNJ: flat
PFE: flat
ABT: flat
MRK: flat
AMGN: -0.2%
Health-care shares were unchanged in pre-market trade Friday.
In health-care stocks news, Casi Pharmaceuticals ( CASI ), a biopharmaceutical company with a focus on China, has outlined its goals for 2015, which include finalizing a trial protocol and plan with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for a New Drug Application filing for ENMD-2076, a first-line treatment of fibrolamellar carcinoma ( FLC ).
Shares in the company were unchanged at $1.70 during pre-market trading on Friday. Over the past 52 weeks, the company has traded between $1.07 and $2.09.
Meanwhile Johnson & Johnson ( JNJ ) has formed a consortia with research institutions and non-government organizations to work with its Belgium-based Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies unit to accelerate the development of an Ebola vaccine.
The Innovative Medicines Initiative ( IMI ) plans to award the consortia grants totaling more than EUR100 million from the Ebola+ programme to support the development, manufacturing and patient education for the vaccine.
Shares in Johnson & Johnson were unchanged at $102.49 during pre-market trading. Over the past 52 weeks, the company has traded between $86.09 and $109.49.
And AbbVie ( ABBV ) Friday reported the European Commission has granted marketing authorizations for ABBV's oral, short-course treatment of genotype 1 chronic hepatitis C, using the ABBX brand-name drugs Viekirax and Exviera.
Additionally, Viekirax has been approved for use with for use against genotype 4 chronic hepatitis C.
Shares in the company were trading 1.1% higher at $63.59. Over the past 52 weeks, the company has traded between $45.50 and $70.76.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
Copyright (C) 2016 MTNewswires.com. All rights reserved. Unauthorized reproduction is strictly prohibited.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | And AbbVie ( ABBV ) Friday reported the European Commission has granted marketing authorizations for ABBV's oral, short-course treatment of genotype 1 chronic hepatitis C, using the ABBX brand-name drugs Viekirax and Exviera. In health-care stocks news, Casi Pharmaceuticals ( CASI ), a biopharmaceutical company with a focus on China, has outlined its goals for 2015, which include finalizing a trial protocol and plan with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for a New Drug Application filing for ENMD-2076, a first-line treatment of fibrolamellar carcinoma ( FLC ). The Innovative Medicines Initiative ( IMI ) plans to award the consortia grants totaling more than EUR100 million from the Ebola+ programme to support the development, manufacturing and patient education for the vaccine. | And AbbVie ( ABBV ) Friday reported the European Commission has granted marketing authorizations for ABBV's oral, short-course treatment of genotype 1 chronic hepatitis C, using the ABBX brand-name drugs Viekirax and Exviera. Top Health-care stocks: JNJ: flat PFE: flat ABT: flat MRK: flat Health-care shares were unchanged in pre-market trade Friday. | And AbbVie ( ABBV ) Friday reported the European Commission has granted marketing authorizations for ABBV's oral, short-course treatment of genotype 1 chronic hepatitis C, using the ABBX brand-name drugs Viekirax and Exviera. In health-care stocks news, Casi Pharmaceuticals ( CASI ), a biopharmaceutical company with a focus on China, has outlined its goals for 2015, which include finalizing a trial protocol and plan with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for a New Drug Application filing for ENMD-2076, a first-line treatment of fibrolamellar carcinoma ( FLC ). Shares in the company were unchanged at $1.70 during pre-market trading on Friday. | And AbbVie ( ABBV ) Friday reported the European Commission has granted marketing authorizations for ABBV's oral, short-course treatment of genotype 1 chronic hepatitis C, using the ABBX brand-name drugs Viekirax and Exviera. Shares in the company were unchanged at $1.70 during pre-market trading on Friday. Meanwhile Johnson & Johnson ( JNJ ) has formed a consortia with research institutions and non-government organizations to work with its Belgium-based Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies unit to accelerate the development of an Ebola vaccine. | 5a1bf367-d17f-43af-a366-5fe58f5ffc67 |
27142.0 | 2015-01-15 00:00:00 UTC | AbbVie Inc.'s Insights at the JP Morgan Healthcare Conference | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/abbvie-incs-insights-jp-morgan-healthcare-conference-2015-01-15 | nan | nan | Source: AbbVie Inc .
AbbVie 's presentation at the JP Morgan Healthcare Conference this week included some intriguing nuggets of information that investors ought to know about, including insight into the company's opportunity in hepatitis C, as well as drugs that are making their way through the pipeline.
A billion-dollar indication
AbbVie is best known for its autoimmune drug Humira, the planet's top-selling medicine. In 2013, it notched sales of more than $10.7 billion and accounted for more than 62% of AbbVie's sales during the first nine months of 2014. But AbbVie hopes to reduce its reliance on Humira ahead of patent expiration in 2016 by expanding into other indications, including hepatitis C.
Source: AbbVie Inc.
In December, the FDA granted AbbVie's Viekira Pak the green light as a treatment for hepatitis C genotype 1, making Viekira Pak the most compelling challenger to Gilead Sciences ' multibillion dollar hepatitis C twosome -- Sovaldi, which is approved for use across genotypes, and Harvoni, which won FDA approval for genotype 1 patients in October.
Although Viekira Pak's four pills daily regimine is more onerous than Harvoni's one pill daily, and Viekira Pak will be prescribed alongside side-effect-laden ribavirin in most cases (something that won't happen with Harvoni), AbbVie should still generate significant sales from Viekira Pak this year thanks to its exclusivity deal with Express Scripts , a pharmacy-benefit manager that manages drug programs for healthcare payers, including employers and insurers.
During the JP Morgan presentation, AbbVie didn't offer specific sales guidance for Viekira Pak, but did say that it will provide more insight into revenue projections during the fourth-quarterearnings conference call which is scheduled for later this month. AbbVie indicated during its presentation that Viekira Pak's launch is officially underway, and that it expects a decision on European approval early this year.
Pipeline predictions
In addition to its potential in hepatitis C, the company thinks it has multiple billion-dollar blockbuster opportunities in its pipeline, including therapies for the treatment of cancer.
One of those promising pipeline drugs is ABT-199, which is being studied as a treatment for blood cancers. ABT-199 is currently being evaluated in phase 3 trials in chronic lymphocytic leukemia, or CLL, and the company thinks that ABT-199 could transform CLL treatment by offering the potential for complete responses in some patients. Earlier this year, AbbVie reported that 23% of CLL patients treated with ABT-199 saw complete remission as part of a small, early-stage trial. If all goes as planned, AbbVie could be on track to submit an FDA application for the approval of ABT-199 later this year.
Another of AbbVie's late-stage drugs that was highlighted at the conference is Veliparib, a drug that has the potential to enhance the effectiveness of existing chemotherapy. The company has a range of ongoing late-stage studies evaluating it in solid tumors, including phase 3 trials evaluating it in breast cancer and non-small cell lung cancer.
Additionally, AbbVie's elotuzumab, which is being co-developed by Bristol-Myers Squibb as a treatment of multiple myeloma, could eventually have an opportunity to generate substantial revenue, too; the drug is being studied for use alongside Celgene Corp 's Revlimid, a $5 billion a year second-line treatment for the indication.
Outside of oncology, AbbVie also has pipeline candidates across immunology and neurology.
The company has a slate of autoimmune drugs in mid-stage trials that could help solidify Humira's market share, including GLPG0634, ABT-494, BT-061, and ALX-0061 . And in neuroscience, patients treated with AbbVie and Biogen Idec 's daclizumab had a 45% reduction in MS relapses versus Biogen's Avonex, a top-selling drug that generates multiple billions of dollars in sales annually. The company hopes to file for daclizumab's approval this year.
Continuing to continue
AbbVie increased its dividend 17% for 2015 and announced a $5 billion buyback in December that will offer support to shares during the next couple of years. Whether or not the company can maintain its shareholder-friendly commitments once Humira loses patent protection remains to be seen, but it would appear, at least based on its comments at the JP Morgan conference, that it has multiple therapies that it believes may eventually blunt that risk.
This coming blockbuster will make every biotech jealous
The best biotech investors consistently reap gigantic profits by recognizing true potential earlier and more accurately than anyone else. Let me cut right to the chase. There is a product in development that will revolutionize not just how we treat a common chronic illness, but potentially the entire health industry. Analysts are already licking their chops at the sales potential. In order to outsmart Wall Street and realize multi-bagger returns you will need The Motley Fool's new free report on the dream-team responsible for this game-changing blockbuster. CLICK HERE NOW .
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The article AbbVie Inc.'s Insights at the JP Morgan Healthcare Conference originally appeared on Fool.com.
Todd Campbell owns shares of Gilead Sciences and Celgene. Todd owns E.B. Capital Markets, LLC. E.B. Capital's clients may or may not have positions in the companies mentioned. Todd owns Gundalow Advisors, LLC. Gundalow's clients do not have positions in the companies mentioned. The Motley Fool recommends Celgene, Express Scripts, and Gilead Sciences. The Motley Fool owns shares of Express Scripts, Gilead Sciences, and JPMorgan Chase. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days . We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy .
Copyright © 1995 - 2015 The Motley Fool, LLC. All rights reserved. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy .
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | During the JP Morgan presentation, AbbVie didn't offer specific sales guidance for Viekira Pak, but did say that it will provide more insight into revenue projections during the fourth-quarterearnings conference call which is scheduled for later this month. Source: AbbVie Inc . AbbVie 's presentation at the JP Morgan Healthcare Conference this week included some intriguing nuggets of information that investors ought to know about, including insight into the company's opportunity in hepatitis C, as well as drugs that are making their way through the pipeline. | Source: AbbVie Inc . AbbVie 's presentation at the JP Morgan Healthcare Conference this week included some intriguing nuggets of information that investors ought to know about, including insight into the company's opportunity in hepatitis C, as well as drugs that are making their way through the pipeline. A billion-dollar indication AbbVie is best known for its autoimmune drug Humira, the planet's top-selling medicine. | AbbVie 's presentation at the JP Morgan Healthcare Conference this week included some intriguing nuggets of information that investors ought to know about, including insight into the company's opportunity in hepatitis C, as well as drugs that are making their way through the pipeline. In December, the FDA granted AbbVie's Viekira Pak the green light as a treatment for hepatitis C genotype 1, making Viekira Pak the most compelling challenger to Gilead Sciences ' multibillion dollar hepatitis C twosome -- Sovaldi, which is approved for use across genotypes, and Harvoni, which won FDA approval for genotype 1 patients in October. Although Viekira Pak's four pills daily regimine is more onerous than Harvoni's one pill daily, and Viekira Pak will be prescribed alongside side-effect-laden ribavirin in most cases (something that won't happen with Harvoni), AbbVie should still generate significant sales from Viekira Pak this year thanks to its exclusivity deal with Express Scripts , a pharmacy-benefit manager that manages drug programs for healthcare payers, including employers and insurers. | AbbVie 's presentation at the JP Morgan Healthcare Conference this week included some intriguing nuggets of information that investors ought to know about, including insight into the company's opportunity in hepatitis C, as well as drugs that are making their way through the pipeline. Source: AbbVie Inc . A billion-dollar indication AbbVie is best known for its autoimmune drug Humira, the planet's top-selling medicine. | 1b653a72-6971-4e3b-a1be-2c6f4233da77 |
27143.0 | 2015-01-14 00:00:00 UTC | 3 Stocks to Buy When the Market Crashes | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/3-stocks-buy-when-market-crashes-2015-01-14 | nan | nan | I'm always on the hunt for great companies selling at a fair value -- let's face it, when the market crashes, often great companies get hammered along with the bad ones. So the next time the market crashes, here are three stocks on my watchlist.
Source: Celgene Corp.
1.Celgene Corporation is one of biotechnology's biggest and most successful drug developers. The company markets four FDA-approved therapies, including Revlimid, a top-selling treatment for multiple myeloma that brings in more than $5 billion in revenue per year. In addition to Revlimid, Celgene also markets the cancer drug Abraxane, which had sales of $212 million in the third quarter of 2014, and Pomalyst, a third-line treatment for multiple myeloma that saw its sales soar by 102% year over year to $181 million in the third quarter. Celgene also markets Otezla, an autoimmune drug that received FDA approval in September as a treatment for psoriasis; it's a major market and Celgene is forecasting that Otezla will someday be a billion dollar a year therapy.
In addition to a solid drug lineup of already approved treatments, Celgene also offers investors a rich pipeline of potential therapies. The company has more than 100 phase 2 studies planned or under way, and over 30 phase 3 studies ongoing. Additionally, Celgene has partnered with some of the most cutting-edge small-cap biotech companies, including Agios Therapeutics , on a slate of possible next-generation cancer treatments. The pipeline could offer plenty of shareholder-friendly news flow in the coming years, but even if some of these drugs stumble, investors can at least rest easy knowing that Celgene's balance sheet is among the best in its industry. The company's cash and short-term investments, for example, have jumped from $5.7 billion exiting 2013 to $6.8 billion coming out of the third quarter. That gives the company a current ratio, which measures a company's ability to handle its short term obligations, of 6.3, which is better than most of its big cap biotech peers.
Source: Amgen
2.Amgen 's current ratio of 4.2 may not be as good as Celgene's, but it's still among the best in the industry, and that fact, along with Amgen's distinction of being one of the few biotech stocks that pays investors a dividend, may mean that it deserves a spot in investors' portfolios, too.
At 1.5%, Amgen's dividend yield isn't as high as that of many of the big pharmaceuticals companies, but it's still healthy and growing. In December, Amgen announced it's boosting its dividend payout by 30% in the first quarter to $0.79 per share. That dividend increase and the company's plans to return 60% of its adjusted net income to investors through 2018 may mean that Amgen is an arguably better buy than those big pharma peers, which have seen their sales drop due to patent expiration.
Admittedly, Amgen isn't immune to patent risk. Its best-selling Neulasta/Neupogen saw sales fall by 7% year over year in the third quarter of 2014 after Neupogen's patent expired in 2013. But Amgen's drugs are biologics, and since biologics are more difficult to replicate than typical small molecule drugs sold by big pharmaceuticals companies, the patent risk has proven to be muted (so far). Further offsetting the risk of biosimilar competition are Amgen's top-selling rheumatoid arthritis drug Enbrel, which racks up $1 billion in quarterly sales and has patent protection until at least 2019, and two fast-growing cancer drugs, Xgeva and Prolia, which saw sales climb 22% and 43% to $318 million and $255 million in the third quarter, respectively. Sales could get additional support this year from Blincyto, an immunotherapy that was approved in December to treat a specific population of Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia patients, and from evolocumab, a next generation bad-cholesterol busting drug that analysts think could have multi-billion blockbuster potential, too.
As a result, Amgen issued guidance in October calling for sales of between $20.8 billion and $21.3 billion and EPS of between $9.05 and $9.40 in 2015, which would be an increase from analysts' full-year 2014 expectations for sales and EPS of $19.97 billion and $8.61, respectively. However, that could prove to be the tip of the iceberg in terms of earnings given that Amgen expects to deliver double digit EPS growth through 2018. That forecast may suggest that investors are right to consider buying shares in the company if they fall.
Source: Gilead Sciences
3.Gilead Sciences has already dropped sharply in the past month, falling from a peak of $115 to about $97 on worries that AbbVie 's hepatitis C cocktail will cut more deeply into its market share than previously expected.
However, despite the potential for AbbVie to win away sales from Gilead Sciences' Sovaldi and Harvoni in 2015, it's still likely that Gilead Sciences will still be the market leader and generate billions of sales from those two drugs in that indication this year. Additionally, Gilead Sciences' HIV drugs produce about $10 billion in sales annually, and its cardiovascular drugs Letairis and Ranexa have combined sales north of $1 billion a year too. Further out, Gilead Sciences continues to advance its next generation hepatitis C therapies through trials, and is expanding its footprint into cancer treatment with the launch of Zydelig earlier this year.
The recent drop in Gilead Sciences shares have arguably made the company one of the least expensive drugmakers in terms of price to earnings, and despite the increased threat from AbbVie, analysts are still predicting that Gilead's EPS will reach $9.88 in 2015, up from expectations for $7.95 in 2014, and up from estimates of $9.52 90 days ago. That suggests that long term investors may want to use any additional weakness as an opportunity to pick up shares.
Thinking long term
It's been proven time and time again that investing for the long term outperforms short-term thinking. That suggests that investors may be better served by buying top-shelf companies on sale when the market inevitably falters. If so, then picking up Celgene, Amgen, and Gilead Sciences for the long haul may prove to be profit-friendly moves down the line.
1 great healthcare stock to buy for 2015 and beyond
Healthcare stocks soared in 2014, and 2015 is shaping up to be another great year for stocks. But if you want to make sure you're buying one of the best healthcare stocks, you need to know where to start. That's why The Motley Fool's chief investment officer just published a brand-new research report that reveals his top stock for the year ahead. To get the full story on this year's stock -- completely free -- simply click here .
The article 3 Stocks to Buy When the Market Crashes originally appeared on Fool.com.
Todd Campbell owns shares of Celgene Corp and Gilead Sciences. Todd owns E.B. Capital Markets, LLC. E.B. Capital's clients may or may not have positions in the companies mentioned. Todd owns Gundalow Advisors, LLC. Gundalow's clients do not have positions in the companies mentioned. The Motley Fool recommends Celgene and Gilead Sciences. The Motley Fool owns shares of Gilead Sciences. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days . We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy .
Copyright © 1995 - 2015 The Motley Fool, LLC. All rights reserved. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy .
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | Source: Gilead Sciences 3.Gilead Sciences has already dropped sharply in the past month, falling from a peak of $115 to about $97 on worries that AbbVie 's hepatitis C cocktail will cut more deeply into its market share than previously expected. However, despite the potential for AbbVie to win away sales from Gilead Sciences' Sovaldi and Harvoni in 2015, it's still likely that Gilead Sciences will still be the market leader and generate billions of sales from those two drugs in that indication this year. The recent drop in Gilead Sciences shares have arguably made the company one of the least expensive drugmakers in terms of price to earnings, and despite the increased threat from AbbVie, analysts are still predicting that Gilead's EPS will reach $9.88 in 2015, up from expectations for $7.95 in 2014, and up from estimates of $9.52 90 days ago. | Source: Gilead Sciences 3.Gilead Sciences has already dropped sharply in the past month, falling from a peak of $115 to about $97 on worries that AbbVie 's hepatitis C cocktail will cut more deeply into its market share than previously expected. However, despite the potential for AbbVie to win away sales from Gilead Sciences' Sovaldi and Harvoni in 2015, it's still likely that Gilead Sciences will still be the market leader and generate billions of sales from those two drugs in that indication this year. The recent drop in Gilead Sciences shares have arguably made the company one of the least expensive drugmakers in terms of price to earnings, and despite the increased threat from AbbVie, analysts are still predicting that Gilead's EPS will reach $9.88 in 2015, up from expectations for $7.95 in 2014, and up from estimates of $9.52 90 days ago. | However, despite the potential for AbbVie to win away sales from Gilead Sciences' Sovaldi and Harvoni in 2015, it's still likely that Gilead Sciences will still be the market leader and generate billions of sales from those two drugs in that indication this year. Source: Gilead Sciences 3.Gilead Sciences has already dropped sharply in the past month, falling from a peak of $115 to about $97 on worries that AbbVie 's hepatitis C cocktail will cut more deeply into its market share than previously expected. The recent drop in Gilead Sciences shares have arguably made the company one of the least expensive drugmakers in terms of price to earnings, and despite the increased threat from AbbVie, analysts are still predicting that Gilead's EPS will reach $9.88 in 2015, up from expectations for $7.95 in 2014, and up from estimates of $9.52 90 days ago. | However, despite the potential for AbbVie to win away sales from Gilead Sciences' Sovaldi and Harvoni in 2015, it's still likely that Gilead Sciences will still be the market leader and generate billions of sales from those two drugs in that indication this year. Source: Gilead Sciences 3.Gilead Sciences has already dropped sharply in the past month, falling from a peak of $115 to about $97 on worries that AbbVie 's hepatitis C cocktail will cut more deeply into its market share than previously expected. The recent drop in Gilead Sciences shares have arguably made the company one of the least expensive drugmakers in terms of price to earnings, and despite the increased threat from AbbVie, analysts are still predicting that Gilead's EPS will reach $9.88 in 2015, up from expectations for $7.95 in 2014, and up from estimates of $9.52 90 days ago. | 3f423fc2-1ab5-4f2c-bbe3-044b69341401 |
27144.0 | 2015-01-14 00:00:00 UTC | How Much Could AbbVie Inc. Make Selling Its Hepatitis C Drug This Year? | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/how-much-could-abbvie-inc-make-selling-its-hepatitis-c-drug-year-2015-01-14 | nan | nan | Carving slices
As payers have hoped, the approval of AbbVie's Viekira Pak is ushering in price competition in the indication. Although AbbVie set a price for Viekira Pak that is in line with Sovaldi, three exclusivity deals have been announced by both drugmakers that offer payers compelling price discounts.
Those price discounts will create a revenue headwind for both companies this year, but it appears that those headwinds are going to be significantly offset by an expanding patient pool.
In the case of AbbVie, shortly after winning the FDA nod for Viekira Pak, it announced a deal with Express Scripts , a pharmacy benefit manager that many health care plans rely on for drug fulfillment, that allows access to all hepatitis C patients covered by Express Scripts plans, instead of just the sickest patients.
Since 25 million people are covered by plans relying on the impacted Express Scripts' drug formulary, hepatitis C occurs in about 1% of the population, and the genotype 1 indication that Viekira Pak is approved for accounts for about 70% of all hepatitis C cases, the agreement likely represents a patient pool for AbbVie of about 175,000 people. That means that even if AbbVie gave Express Scripts a 50% discount to its $83,320 wholesale price, this deal is still a $7.3 billion dollar revenue opportunity for the company.
Guiding for growth
According to AbbVie's recent guidance, the company is expecting that the launch of Viekira Pak will help lift its earnings per share by around 30% in 2015.
The company expects to deliver adjusted EPS of between $4.25 and $4.45 per share, which would significantly outpace analysts' current full year 2014 estimate for EPS of $3.30.
Viekira Pak will be responsible for a lot of AbbVie's expected earnings growth, but it won't account for all of it. AbbVie also thinks that its top-selling autoimmune drug Humira will see sales climb too.
Humira, which is approved to treat indications including rheumatoid arthritis and psoriasis, posted sales of $9.2 billion through the first nine months of 2014, up 20.6% year-over-year.
More coming
The potential for Viekira Pak and Humira to move the profit needle at AbbVie this year is nice, but AbbVie investors need more insight into AbbVie's plans, given that Humira is set to lose patent protection at the end of 2016. AbbVie should offer additional information on its expected sales and financials during its fourth quarter earnings conference call, which is scheduled for January 30th, so investors won't have to wait long to get an even clearer outlook on the company.
1 great health care stock to buy for 2015 and beyond
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The article How Much Could AbbVie Inc. Make Selling Its Hepatitis C Drug This Year? originally appeared on Fool.com.
Todd Campbell owns shares of Gilead Sciences. Todd owns E.B. Capital Markets, LLC. E.B.Capital's clients may or may not have positions in the companies mentioned. Todd owns Gundalow Advisors, LLC. Gundalow's clients do not have positions in the companies mentioned. The Motley Fool recommends Express Scripts, Gilead Sciences, and Vertex Pharmaceuticals. The Motley Fool owns shares of Express Scripts and Gilead Sciences. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days . We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy .
Copyright © 1995 - 2015 The Motley Fool, LLC. All rights reserved. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy .
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | That means that even if AbbVie gave Express Scripts a 50% discount to its $83,320 wholesale price, this deal is still a $7.3 billion dollar revenue opportunity for the company. AbbVie should offer additional information on its expected sales and financials during its fourth quarter earnings conference call, which is scheduled for January 30th, so investors won't have to wait long to get an even clearer outlook on the company. Carving slices As payers have hoped, the approval of AbbVie's Viekira Pak is ushering in price competition in the indication. | Viekira Pak will be responsible for a lot of AbbVie's expected earnings growth, but it won't account for all of it. Carving slices As payers have hoped, the approval of AbbVie's Viekira Pak is ushering in price competition in the indication. Although AbbVie set a price for Viekira Pak that is in line with Sovaldi, three exclusivity deals have been announced by both drugmakers that offer payers compelling price discounts. | In the case of AbbVie, shortly after winning the FDA nod for Viekira Pak, it announced a deal with Express Scripts , a pharmacy benefit manager that many health care plans rely on for drug fulfillment, that allows access to all hepatitis C patients covered by Express Scripts plans, instead of just the sickest patients. Since 25 million people are covered by plans relying on the impacted Express Scripts' drug formulary, hepatitis C occurs in about 1% of the population, and the genotype 1 indication that Viekira Pak is approved for accounts for about 70% of all hepatitis C cases, the agreement likely represents a patient pool for AbbVie of about 175,000 people. More coming The potential for Viekira Pak and Humira to move the profit needle at AbbVie this year is nice, but AbbVie investors need more insight into AbbVie's plans, given that Humira is set to lose patent protection at the end of 2016. | In the case of AbbVie, shortly after winning the FDA nod for Viekira Pak, it announced a deal with Express Scripts , a pharmacy benefit manager that many health care plans rely on for drug fulfillment, that allows access to all hepatitis C patients covered by Express Scripts plans, instead of just the sickest patients. Carving slices As payers have hoped, the approval of AbbVie's Viekira Pak is ushering in price competition in the indication. Although AbbVie set a price for Viekira Pak that is in line with Sovaldi, three exclusivity deals have been announced by both drugmakers that offer payers compelling price discounts. | 68323ce0-71ff-4698-8e97-2eb48a3a7132 |
27145.0 | 2015-01-14 00:00:00 UTC | Gilead Sciences, Inc. Is No Longer Just an HIV Company | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/gilead-sciences-inc-no-longer-just-hiv-company-2015-01-14 | nan | nan | This slide from Gilead Sciences ' JP Morgan Healthcare Conference presentation Tuesday morning shouldn't surprise anyone, but it's a good reminder of how much the big biotech has changed in a year.
The crazy thing about the massive switch in focus is that it hasn't come at the expense of HIV drugs. Sure, they've gone from three quarters of Gilead Sciences' revenue to less than half of its revenue, but it's not like sales have decreased. In fact, the HIV franchise increased 14% year over year from $7.8 billion to $8.9 billion for the two 12-month periods.
Gilead has the top three HIV therapies in the U.S. and the top two in the largest European countries, with its latest offering, Stribild, in the fourth spot among new-to-therapy patients. Being that dominant certainly has its privileges, but having a large portion of the market also opens the company up to a patent cliff when generics become available.
Gilead's counter to the inevitable loss of exclusivity is tenofovir alafenamide, commonly referred to as TAF. The drug is related to one of the staple drugs in Gilead's combination products, tenofovir disoproxil fumarate, which goes by the brand name Viread.
If the switch to TAF was a one-sided benefit for Gilead, the biotech would have a hard time getting patients to make the move. Fortunately though, laboratory tests run during the clinical trial suggest that TAF will reduce the likelihood of kidney failure and keep bone mineral density from declining as much, which is a problem for some patients taking Viread.
Gilead has already submitted the TAF-including version of Stibild to U.S. and EU regulators. Given the equal efficacy and better safety, the new version seems likely to gain approval.
In addition to the improved safety, the swap from disoproxil fumarate to alafenamide makes TAF a lot more potent, so the size of the pill can be smaller. That's not all that important for Stribild -- the pill isn't that big -- but the large volume of Viread makes it impossible to combine Viread with a large-volume protease inhibitor because the pill would be too big to swallow. TAF eliminates that problem, allowing Gilead and Johnson & Johnson to combine Gilead's TAF, Emtriva, and Tybost with Johnson & Johnson's protease inhibitor Prezista in a single pill.
Hepatitis C is key
While the battle with AbbVie for hepatitis C patients rages on, Gilead's president and COO, John Milligan, was pretty mum about the biotech's plan to compete. The price discount the companies have to give will determine exactly how big the hepatitis C opportunity really is. Unlike most diseases, where switching between drugs is possible -- and sometimes even common -- hepatitis C drugs are cures, so the companies need to capture patients before they start another medication.
Of course, there are millions of people with hepatitis C, so even with a fairly low infection rate, it's going to take a while to work through all the patients. There's likely to be opportunities for next-generation hepatitis C drugs to capture some of the market, especially if they can reduce the duration of time that patients currently have to take the drug.
Gilead isn't waiting for the competition to take its market share though; it's working on a couple of combinations that could treat all genotypes and shorten duration of treatment. Data from four ongoing phase 3 trials testing Sovaldi and GS-5816 is expected in the third quarter. And Gilead is also working on a triple-drug combination of Sovladi, GS-5816 and GS-9857, which is in phase 2 trials at the moment.
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The best biotech investors consistently reap gigantic profits by recognizing true potential earlier and more accurately than anyone else. Let me cut right to the chase. There is a product in development that will revolutionize not just how we treat a common chronic illness, but potentially the entire health industry. Analysts are already licking their chops at the sales potential. In order to outsmart Wall Street and realize multi-bagger returns you will need The Motley Fool's new free report on the dream-team responsible for this game-changing blockbuster. CLICK HERE NOW .
For more Foolish coverage of the JP Morgan Healthcare Conference, click here .
The article Gilead Sciences, Inc. Is No Longer Just an HIV Company originally appeared on Fool.com.
Brian Orelli has no position in any stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool recommends Gilead Sciences and Johnson & Johnson and owns shares of both companies. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days . We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy .
Copyright © 1995 - 2015 The Motley Fool, LLC. All rights reserved. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy .
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | Hepatitis C is key While the battle with AbbVie for hepatitis C patients rages on, Gilead's president and COO, John Milligan, was pretty mum about the biotech's plan to compete. This slide from Gilead Sciences ' JP Morgan Healthcare Conference presentation Tuesday morning shouldn't surprise anyone, but it's a good reminder of how much the big biotech has changed in a year. Fortunately though, laboratory tests run during the clinical trial suggest that TAF will reduce the likelihood of kidney failure and keep bone mineral density from declining as much, which is a problem for some patients taking Viread. | Hepatitis C is key While the battle with AbbVie for hepatitis C patients rages on, Gilead's president and COO, John Milligan, was pretty mum about the biotech's plan to compete. This slide from Gilead Sciences ' JP Morgan Healthcare Conference presentation Tuesday morning shouldn't surprise anyone, but it's a good reminder of how much the big biotech has changed in a year. The drug is related to one of the staple drugs in Gilead's combination products, tenofovir disoproxil fumarate, which goes by the brand name Viread. | Hepatitis C is key While the battle with AbbVie for hepatitis C patients rages on, Gilead's president and COO, John Milligan, was pretty mum about the biotech's plan to compete. This slide from Gilead Sciences ' JP Morgan Healthcare Conference presentation Tuesday morning shouldn't surprise anyone, but it's a good reminder of how much the big biotech has changed in a year. TAF eliminates that problem, allowing Gilead and Johnson & Johnson to combine Gilead's TAF, Emtriva, and Tybost with Johnson & Johnson's protease inhibitor Prezista in a single pill. | Hepatitis C is key While the battle with AbbVie for hepatitis C patients rages on, Gilead's president and COO, John Milligan, was pretty mum about the biotech's plan to compete. There's likely to be opportunities for next-generation hepatitis C drugs to capture some of the market, especially if they can reduce the duration of time that patients currently have to take the drug. For more Foolish coverage of the JP Morgan Healthcare Conference, click here . | 13a609b0-11b8-4131-aa7c-f730c7b35b7e |
27146.0 | 2015-01-13 00:00:00 UTC | Perrigo/Ferrara Candy Ink Supply Deal for Gummy Products - Analyst Blog | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/perrigo-ferrara-candy-ink-supply-deal-for-gummy-products-analyst-blog-2015-01-13 | nan | nan | The Nutritionals unit at Perrigo Company ( PRGO ) has inked a five-year supply agreement with Ferrara Candy Company, one of the leading gummy manufacturers, to manufacture store brand gummy vitamins and dietary supplements. These are meant to be sold at leading retailers across the U.S.
As per the deal, Perrigo will gain exclusive rights to a full line of store brand gummy vitamin, mineral and supplement products which will utilize Ferrara's gummy technology and manufacturing capabilities. Moreover, Ferrara's gummy technology can be utilized for other over-the-counter (OTC) products as well.
As per IRI multi-outlet data sales of vitamin and dietary supplement gummies are expected to reach $1 billion by 2017, which currently worth $625 million.
Sales in the company's Nutritional division have been disappointing for the last couple of quarters primarily due to lower sales from products in the infant/toddler food and VMS units. The division reported revenues of $125.3 million for the first quarter of fiscal 2015, down 3% year over year.
In a separate announcement, Perrigo said that it has launched the generic version of Galderma Laboratories' Clobex spray (0.05%). Perrigo was also the first company to file for the generic version of Clobex spray and will therefore enjoy 180 days of generic exclusivity. Clobex spray is approved for the treatment of moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis. As per IMS Health, 52-week sales of the product were approximately $100 million.
Also, Perrigo announced the launch of its therapeutically equivalent version of AbbVie's ( ABBV ) AndroGel 1.0%, approved to treat adults having low or no testosterone. As per Symphony Health Solutions, yearly sales of AndroGel 1.0% were over $300 million.
Perrigo holds a Zacks Rank #3 (Sell). Some better-ranked stocks in the healthcare sector are Affymetrix Inc. ( AFFX ) and Amgen Inc. ( AMGN ). Both carry a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy).
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | Also, Perrigo announced the launch of its therapeutically equivalent version of AbbVie's ( ABBV ) AndroGel 1.0%, approved to treat adults having low or no testosterone. Click to get this free report PERRIGO CO PLC (PRGO): Free Stock Analysis Report AMGEN INC (AMGN): Free Stock Analysis Report AFFYMETRIX INC (AFFX): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. As per IRI multi-outlet data sales of vitamin and dietary supplement gummies are expected to reach $1 billion by 2017, which currently worth $625 million. | Click to get this free report PERRIGO CO PLC (PRGO): Free Stock Analysis Report AMGEN INC (AMGN): Free Stock Analysis Report AFFYMETRIX INC (AFFX): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Also, Perrigo announced the launch of its therapeutically equivalent version of AbbVie's ( ABBV ) AndroGel 1.0%, approved to treat adults having low or no testosterone. The Nutritionals unit at Perrigo Company ( PRGO ) has inked a five-year supply agreement with Ferrara Candy Company, one of the leading gummy manufacturers, to manufacture store brand gummy vitamins and dietary supplements. | Click to get this free report PERRIGO CO PLC (PRGO): Free Stock Analysis Report AMGEN INC (AMGN): Free Stock Analysis Report AFFYMETRIX INC (AFFX): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Also, Perrigo announced the launch of its therapeutically equivalent version of AbbVie's ( ABBV ) AndroGel 1.0%, approved to treat adults having low or no testosterone. The Nutritionals unit at Perrigo Company ( PRGO ) has inked a five-year supply agreement with Ferrara Candy Company, one of the leading gummy manufacturers, to manufacture store brand gummy vitamins and dietary supplements. | Also, Perrigo announced the launch of its therapeutically equivalent version of AbbVie's ( ABBV ) AndroGel 1.0%, approved to treat adults having low or no testosterone. Click to get this free report PERRIGO CO PLC (PRGO): Free Stock Analysis Report AMGEN INC (AMGN): Free Stock Analysis Report AFFYMETRIX INC (AFFX): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. The Nutritionals unit at Perrigo Company ( PRGO ) has inked a five-year supply agreement with Ferrara Candy Company, one of the leading gummy manufacturers, to manufacture store brand gummy vitamins and dietary supplements. | 319d1286-303d-4f47-8fe2-c97102612c0f |
27147.0 | 2015-01-12 00:00:00 UTC | AbbVie Inc. (ABBV) Ex-Dividend Date Scheduled for January 13, 2015 | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/abbvie-inc-abbv-ex-dividend-date-scheduled-january-13-2015-2015-01-12 | nan | nan | AbbVie Inc. ( ABBV ) will begin trading ex-dividend on January 13, 2015. A cash dividend payment of $0.49 per share is scheduled to be paid on February 13, 2015. Shareholders who purchased ABBV stock prior to the ex-dividend date are eligible for the cash dividend payment. This represents an 16.67% increase over the prior quarter.
The previous trading day's last sale of ABBV was $65.78, representing a -7.04% decrease from the 52 week high of $70.76 and a 44.57% increase over the 52 week low of $45.50.
ABBV is a part of the Health Care sector, which includes companies such as Johnson & Johnson ( JNJ ) and Novartis AG ( NVS ). ABBV's current earnings per share, an indicator of a company's profitability, is $2.3. Zacks Investment Research reports ABBV's forecasted earnings growth in 2014 as 5.02%, compared to an industry average of -9.1%.
For more information on the declaration, record and payment dates, visit the ABBV Dividend History page. Our Dividend Calendar has the full list of stocks that have an ex-dividend today.
Interested in gaining exposure to ABBV through an Exchange Traded Fund [ETF]?
The following ETF(s) have ABBV as a top-10 holding:
First Trust IPOX-100 Index Fund ( FPX )
SPDR Health Care Select Sector Fund ( XLV )
iShares Dow Jones US Healthcare Sector Index Fund ( IYH )
Vanguard Health Care Index Fund ( VHT )
SPDR S&P Dividend ETF ( SDY ).
The top-performing ETF of this group is IYH with an increase of 12.74% over the last 100 days. FPX has the highest percent weighting of ABBV at 8.74%.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | Shareholders who purchased ABBV stock prior to the ex-dividend date are eligible for the cash dividend payment. Zacks Investment Research reports ABBV's forecasted earnings growth in 2014 as 5.02%, compared to an industry average of -9.1%. For more information on the declaration, record and payment dates, visit the ABBV Dividend History page. | The following ETF(s) have ABBV as a top-10 holding: First Trust IPOX-100 Index Fund ( FPX ) SPDR Health Care Select Sector Fund ( XLV ) iShares Dow Jones US Healthcare Sector Index Fund ( IYH ) Vanguard Health Care Index Fund ( VHT ) SPDR S&P Dividend ETF ( SDY ). The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. AbbVie Inc. ( ABBV ) will begin trading ex-dividend on January 13, 2015. | Shareholders who purchased ABBV stock prior to the ex-dividend date are eligible for the cash dividend payment. The previous trading day's last sale of ABBV was $65.78, representing a -7.04% decrease from the 52 week high of $70.76 and a 44.57% increase over the 52 week low of $45.50. The following ETF(s) have ABBV as a top-10 holding: First Trust IPOX-100 Index Fund ( FPX ) SPDR Health Care Select Sector Fund ( XLV ) iShares Dow Jones US Healthcare Sector Index Fund ( IYH ) Vanguard Health Care Index Fund ( VHT ) SPDR S&P Dividend ETF ( SDY ). | Shareholders who purchased ABBV stock prior to the ex-dividend date are eligible for the cash dividend payment. The following ETF(s) have ABBV as a top-10 holding: First Trust IPOX-100 Index Fund ( FPX ) SPDR Health Care Select Sector Fund ( XLV ) iShares Dow Jones US Healthcare Sector Index Fund ( IYH ) Vanguard Health Care Index Fund ( VHT ) SPDR S&P Dividend ETF ( SDY ). AbbVie Inc. ( ABBV ) will begin trading ex-dividend on January 13, 2015. | 6b4d3b9d-09e5-45fc-9982-a824f4873598 |
27148.0 | 2015-01-12 00:00:00 UTC | 1 Big Loser in the Slugfest Between AbbVie and Gilead Sciences | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/1-big-loser-slugfest-between-abbvie-and-gilead-sciences-2015-01-12 | nan | nan | Source: Wikimedia Commons
An epic fight is under way in the world of hepatitis C. We've seen a couple of punches thrown just over the last few days. The latest occurred on Thursday with Anthem 's selection of Gilead Sciences ' Harvoni as a primary treatment for patients with hepatitis C genotype 1, the most common strain of the disease.
With nearly every slugging match, there's at least one battered and bruised loser. Is that true in the brawl between Gilead and AbbVie ? In this case, there appear to be several winners and one loser -- maybe.
Winners
Of course, Gilead has emerged as the most recent winner. The deal with Anthem came on the heels of CVS Health's deal to exclusively offer Gilead's hep-C drugs. Those were two quick jabs in rapid succession.
AbbVie, however, is still a winner in my view. The big biotech scored points in December with its own arrangement with the nation's largest pharmacy benefits manager, or PBM, Express Scripts . AbbVie's move sent Gilead reeling -- at least temporarily.
It's worth noting that AbbVie's stock hasn't exactly caught on fire with the Express Scripts deal. That doesn't mean the company shouldn't be included on the winners' list, however. Striking a bargain with the giant PBM was a smart play that should benefit AbbVie over the long run.
Other winners stand out as well. Anthem is the largest provider of health insurance to businesses in the U.S. Gaining lower pricing for Harvoni will likely help the insurer win even more corporate business. Likewise, Express Scripts and CVS Health will both be able to bring lower hep-C drug prices to their respective customers.
...And loser?
That leads us to one company that might appear to be the loser in the scuffle between AbbVie and Gilead: Catamaran Corporation . Catamaran ranks as the fourth largest PBM in the U.S. And -- at least so far -- Catamaran doesn't have a special deal with either of the hep-C drugmakers.
Source: Catamaran Corporation
If things remain as they are, you might think that Catamaran could have a tough time going head-to-head against its larger rivals who can offer lower hep-C drug prices. But not everyone would agree with that assessment.
On Thursday, JPMorgan Chase analysts raised the target price for Catamaran from $54 to $56. Shares of the PBM jumped over 5% after the positive outlook. On the other hand, Morgan Stanley analysts downgraded Catamaran from "equal weight" rating to "underweight" rating earlier in the week. So is Catamaran poised to be a winner like JPMorgan thinks or a loser like Morgan Stanley suspects?
My take is that Catamaran should at least hold its own. The company just completed its acquisition of Salveo Specialty Pharmacy and launched specialty pharmacy business BriovaRx in 2012. Specialty drugs, including those that treat hepatitis C, are an attractive opportunity for Catamaran.
And don't be surprised if Catamaran doesn't forge a deal with AbbVie or Gilead. Even if the company doesn't negotiate pricing as low as Express Scripts or CVS Health, it can still emerge as a winner for the mid-size market that Catamaran particularly likes.
Fighting on
While there has been a lot of commotion over the high prices of hepatitis C drugs, ultimately there should be plenty of winners in this huge market. The biotechs will win, of course, as they sell billions of dollars worth of their drugs. Payers will win because the total healthcare costs should be reduced over time as expensive transplants are avoided. PBM's will win as they help customers control the costs of the high-dollar drugs.
The biggest winners of all, though, are the patients who are cured from this chronic disease. The fights between AbbVie and Gilead and between Express Scripts, CVS Health, and Catamaran mean the most for those who have been in the fight against hepatitis C in the truest sense of the term.
1 great healthcare stock to buy for 2015 and beyond
Healthcare stocks soared in 2014, and 2015 is shaping up to be another great year for stocks. But if you want to make sure you're buying one of the best healthcare stocks, you need to know where to start. That's why The Motley Fool's chief investment officer just published a brand-new research report that reveals his top stock for the year ahead. To get the full story on this year's stock -- completely free -- simply click here .
The article 1 Big Loser in the Slugfest Between AbbVie and Gilead Sciences originally appeared on Fool.com.
Keith Speights owns shares of Express Scripts and Gilead Sciences. The Motley Fool recommends Anthem, Catamaran, CVS Health, Express Scripts, and Gilead Sciences. The Motley Fool owns shares of Catamaran, Express Scripts, Gilead Sciences, and JPMorgan Chase. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days . We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy .
Copyright © 1995 - 2015 The Motley Fool, LLC. All rights reserved. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy .
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | Is that true in the brawl between Gilead and AbbVie ? AbbVie, however, is still a winner in my view. AbbVie's move sent Gilead reeling -- at least temporarily. | Is that true in the brawl between Gilead and AbbVie ? AbbVie, however, is still a winner in my view. AbbVie's move sent Gilead reeling -- at least temporarily. | The fights between AbbVie and Gilead and between Express Scripts, CVS Health, and Catamaran mean the most for those who have been in the fight against hepatitis C in the truest sense of the term. Is that true in the brawl between Gilead and AbbVie ? AbbVie, however, is still a winner in my view. | AbbVie, however, is still a winner in my view. Is that true in the brawl between Gilead and AbbVie ? AbbVie's move sent Gilead reeling -- at least temporarily. | cbd29322-7684-4efa-8878-06dceea2c5e8 |
27149.0 | 2015-01-12 00:00:00 UTC | Which Big Biotech Will Soar in 2015? | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/which-big-biotech-will-soar-2015-2015-01-12 | nan | nan | In a bid to help investors identify the biotech companies that could be top stocks this year, we asked three top Motley Fool contributors to tell us which biotech stocks they think could head significantly higher in 2015. Read on to learn which companies they picked.
Source: Gilead Sciences.
: Admittedly, it's going to be incredibly tough for biotech stocks to outdo their 2014 performance anytime soon. In a year where the S&P 500 rose by 11%, the SPDR S&P Biotech ETF quadrupled those gains with a 45% return. I expect biotech could be in for a tougher year than many investors predict.
With that being said, I believe deep value will be what investors will be looking for -- value like Gilead Sciences .
This isn't to say Gilead doesn't have its fair share of obstacles to overcome. Just weeks ago rival AbbVie announced a multi-year supply agreement with pharmacy-benefits manager Express Scripts for hepatitis C combo drug Viekira Pak, essentially knocking Harvoni/Sovaldi out of most genotype 1 indications, at least for consumers under Express Scripts' umbrella. Investors are clearly concerned that this move could incite a pricing war among high-priced prescription drugs.
As for me, I see Express Scripts' deal backfiring . While Gilead did face backlash from its pricing of HCV pills Sovaldi and Harvoni ($1,000 and $1,125 per pill, respectively), not having access to Harvoni, which can be given without side effect-laden ribavirin could cause patients to switch drugstores.
Ultimately, with 180 million people around the world afflicted with HCV, according to the World Health Organization, there are plenty of opportunities here for multiple players in the HCV market. I fully expect $10 billion-plus in HCV sales for Gilead in 2015, making its forward P/E of less than 10 incredibly attractive to both growth and value investors.
Cheryl Swanson : I agree with Sean; I think Gilead Sciences currently delivers the best value among the biotech bellwethers. But another biotech with relatively decent valuations that could pack a big wallop in 2015 is Biogen Idec Inc . .
Biogen recently released data on its mid-stage study of anti-LINGO-1 against an eye disease, and the stock has been volatile as investors struggle to interpret the results.
Overall, the actual trial results were a mixed bag, although Biogen reported them as "positive." Biogen's chief medical officer pointed out that it was the first clinical trial to provide evidence of biological repair in the central nervous system. I see that as encouraging, since Biogen's major hope for the drug is that it could reverse damage to the brain caused by multiple sclerosis, where it is also being tested. At the moment, multiple sclerosis can be managed but not cured -- but Biogen may now be a step closer.
Biogen is also bringing some measure of hope for Alzheimer's disease. Biogen's lead candidate against Alzheimer's recently skipped ahead to phase 3 testing, thanks to promising early results. Even if that drug (BIIB037) gets shot down, which is certainly very possible with a 99% failure rate among Alzheimer's treatments, Biogen has three more Alzheimer's drugs under development -- two with collaborator Eisai Co. Ltd .
Bottom line: While Gilead looks like the better buy right now, Biogen leads the $18 billion global MS market, and its launch of two hemophilia drugs will bring it some needed diversity in revenue. As 2014 fades in the rearview mirror, Biogen's focus is moving to its widening pipeline, and that should help set this stock up for a solid 2015.
Source: Celgene Corp.
George Budwell :Celgene Corporation is my biotech pick to soar this year. Although it doesn't exactly have a compelling valuation like Gilead at current levels, this stock should still have a great year for a couple of reasons.
First, Celgene's new psoriasis drug, Otezla, could provide a significant upside surprise in terms of revenue growth throughout the year. With the recent label expansion for moderate to severe plaque psoriasis in the U.S. and a looming European approval, Otezla could begin a rapid ascension into blockbuster territory, making it a key drug to watch going forward.
Celgene's flagship cancer drug, Revlimid, is also set for another big year. With several possible label expansions on the horizon, I think Revlimid could this year top even its staggering 16% sales increase in the first nine months of 2014.
Last, but certainly not least, the cancer drugs Abraxane and Pomalyst/Imnovid saw their sales bolt higher last year (36% and 159%, respectively), a trend that is expected to continue into 2015.
All told, I think Celgene's growing market share for its core cancer franchise (Abraxane/Pomalyst/Revlimid), as well as its psoriasis drug Otezla, should result in a 20% plus rise in revenue in 2015, making it one of the fastest growing large-cap biotech companies. As such, this stock looks, to me, like it should outperform many of its peers, and perhaps even the broader market this year.
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The article Which Big Biotech Will Soar in 2015? originally appeared on Fool.com.
Cheryl Swanson owns shares of Celgene and Gilead Sciences. George Budwell owns shares of AbbVie and Gilead Sciences. Sean Williams has no position in any stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool recommends Celgene, Express Scripts, and Gilead Sciences and owns shares of Express Scripts and Gilead Sciences. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days . We Fools don't all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy .
Copyright © 1995 - 2015 The Motley Fool, LLC. All rights reserved. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy .
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | Just weeks ago rival AbbVie announced a multi-year supply agreement with pharmacy-benefits manager Express Scripts for hepatitis C combo drug Viekira Pak, essentially knocking Harvoni/Sovaldi out of most genotype 1 indications, at least for consumers under Express Scripts' umbrella. George Budwell owns shares of AbbVie and Gilead Sciences. Bottom line: While Gilead looks like the better buy right now, Biogen leads the $18 billion global MS market, and its launch of two hemophilia drugs will bring it some needed diversity in revenue. | Just weeks ago rival AbbVie announced a multi-year supply agreement with pharmacy-benefits manager Express Scripts for hepatitis C combo drug Viekira Pak, essentially knocking Harvoni/Sovaldi out of most genotype 1 indications, at least for consumers under Express Scripts' umbrella. George Budwell owns shares of AbbVie and Gilead Sciences. Source: Celgene Corp. George Budwell :Celgene Corporation is my biotech pick to soar this year. | Just weeks ago rival AbbVie announced a multi-year supply agreement with pharmacy-benefits manager Express Scripts for hepatitis C combo drug Viekira Pak, essentially knocking Harvoni/Sovaldi out of most genotype 1 indications, at least for consumers under Express Scripts' umbrella. George Budwell owns shares of AbbVie and Gilead Sciences. In a bid to help investors identify the biotech companies that could be top stocks this year, we asked three top Motley Fool contributors to tell us which biotech stocks they think could head significantly higher in 2015. | Just weeks ago rival AbbVie announced a multi-year supply agreement with pharmacy-benefits manager Express Scripts for hepatitis C combo drug Viekira Pak, essentially knocking Harvoni/Sovaldi out of most genotype 1 indications, at least for consumers under Express Scripts' umbrella. George Budwell owns shares of AbbVie and Gilead Sciences. I fully expect $10 billion-plus in HCV sales for Gilead in 2015, making its forward P/E of less than 10 incredibly attractive to both growth and value investors. | 2a4e784c-7e9c-4038-b424-0993c1ccebe6 |
27150.0 | 2015-01-12 00:00:00 UTC | Myriad's Tumor-Based Cancer Test Wins CE Mark, Shares Up - Analyst Blog | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/myriads-tumor-based-cancer-test-wins-ce-mark-shares-up-analyst-blog-2015-01-12 | nan | nan | Shares of Myriad Genetics, Inc. ( MYGN ) rose 3.4% to eventually close at $38.10 on Friday, subsequent to the company's announcement of the receipt of CE Mark for its eminent companion diagnostic test - Tumor BracAnalysis CDx, in Europe. Subsequent to the receipt of this approval, Myriad launched this test as a companion diagnostic for PARP Inhibitors in Europe.
Myriad's Tumor BracAnalysis CDx is a highly accurate molecular companion diagnostic test that can detect the presence of both hereditary as well as tumor-based cancer-causing mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, through the examination of a patient's blood sample.
With this announcement, Myriad's Tumor BracAnalysis CDx has become the first ever tumor-based companion diagnostic test to receive the CE Mark. Notably, the test can determine patients who are suitable to receive AstraZeneca's ( AZN ) FDA-cleared ovarian cancer drug - LynParza, which is a poly ADP-ribose polymerase (PARP) inhibitor.
It is crucial to differentiate between ovarian cancer patients having hereditary and tumor-based BRCA mutations, so that appropriate measures of treatment can be undertaken.
At the moment, Myriad's Tumor BracAnalysis CDx is the most potent option to differentiate among ovarian cancer patients as it can identify both hereditary and tumor-based BRCA mutations.
Management at Myriad believes the CE Mark represents a significant milestone for the company. The approval opens up new avenues for a validated tumor-based diagnostic test that can be used as a companion diagnostic with Lynparza and future PARP inhibitors in Europe.
At the European Society of Medical Oncology meeting, held in Sep 2014, data presented by Myriad showed that its tumor BracAnalysis CDx can identify approximately 44% more ovarian cancer patients who are likely to respond to Lynparza than conventional hereditary BRCA testing. We believe such prospects significantly enhance the market potential for the BracAnalysis CDx test.
Management further believes Lynparza's clearance in Europe will be a major catalyst for Myriad's international revenue growth. On approval, Lynparza will represent a $100 million per year companion diagnostic testing opportunity in Europe. This naturally translates into potential growth opportunity for Myriad's BracAnalysis CDx in Europe.
It is worth mentioning in this regard that the European Medicines Agency (EMA) has approved Lynparza as a monotherapy for treating ovarian cancer patients. However, at the moment, the European Commission is investigating the full potential of this drug; hence the final approval is still pending.
Consequently, management at Myriad expects to receive a revenue benefit in the second half of fiscal 2015 from the Tumor BracAnalysis CDx test.
Currently, Myriad is engaged in active partnership with leading pharmaceutical companies to develop Tumor BracAnalysis CDx as a companion diagnostic for use with certain PARP inhibitors, platinum-based drugs and other novel chemotherapeutic agents.
Evidently, the company is making progress with its pharmaceutical partners in the U.S. It announced new commercial collaboration with AbbVie Inc. ( ABBV ) in Nov 2014 for Tumor BracAnalysis CDx.
Currently, Myriad Genetics, AstraZeneca and AbbVie hold a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). Another better-ranked stock in the med-biomed/generic industry is Affymetrix Inc. ( AFFX ), which holds a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy).
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | It announced new commercial collaboration with AbbVie Inc. ( ABBV ) in Nov 2014 for Tumor BracAnalysis CDx. Currently, Myriad Genetics, AstraZeneca and AbbVie hold a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). Click to get this free report ASTRAZENECA PLC (AZN): Free Stock Analysis Report AFFYMETRIX INC (AFFX): Free Stock Analysis Report MYRIAD GENETICS (MYGN): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. | Currently, Myriad Genetics, AstraZeneca and AbbVie hold a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). Click to get this free report ASTRAZENECA PLC (AZN): Free Stock Analysis Report AFFYMETRIX INC (AFFX): Free Stock Analysis Report MYRIAD GENETICS (MYGN): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. It announced new commercial collaboration with AbbVie Inc. ( ABBV ) in Nov 2014 for Tumor BracAnalysis CDx. | Click to get this free report ASTRAZENECA PLC (AZN): Free Stock Analysis Report AFFYMETRIX INC (AFFX): Free Stock Analysis Report MYRIAD GENETICS (MYGN): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. It announced new commercial collaboration with AbbVie Inc. ( ABBV ) in Nov 2014 for Tumor BracAnalysis CDx. Currently, Myriad Genetics, AstraZeneca and AbbVie hold a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). | It announced new commercial collaboration with AbbVie Inc. ( ABBV ) in Nov 2014 for Tumor BracAnalysis CDx. Currently, Myriad Genetics, AstraZeneca and AbbVie hold a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). Click to get this free report ASTRAZENECA PLC (AZN): Free Stock Analysis Report AFFYMETRIX INC (AFFX): Free Stock Analysis Report MYRIAD GENETICS (MYGN): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. | 1aee7ac5-df45-4f26-91b2-56e5a2deda0d |
27151.0 | 2015-01-12 00:00:00 UTC | Novartis Submits NDA for Ultibro & Seebri Breezhaler - Analyst Blog | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/novartis-submits-nda-for-ultibro-seebri-breezhaler-analyst-blog-2015-01-12 | nan | nan | Investors in the pharma/biotech sector eagerly wait for pipeline updates as they play an important role in deciding whether or not to invest in a particular company. These updates provide information on experimental drugs and at times give an insight on the commercial potential of the candidate once it is successfully developed and commercialized.
Novartis ( NVS ) recently announced positive top-line results from phase III trials on chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) drugs Ultibro Breezhaler 110/50 mcg and Seebri Breezhaler 50 mcg. Both drugs are approved in the EU.
Results from these phase III trials (FLIGHT 1 and 2; and GEM 1 and 2) will support the drugs' New Drug Applications (NDAs) to the FDA submitted in the fourth quarter of 2014. The FLIGHT 1 and 2 studies met their primary objectives as the treatment with twice-daily Ultibro Breezhaler demonstrated statistically- and clinically-significant improvements in lung function at week 12, compared to indacaterol and glycopyrronium bromide in moderate-to-severe COPD patients.
Similarly, the GEM 1 and 2 studies showed that twice-daily treatment with Seebri Breezhaler demonstrated clinically significant improvement in lung function at week 12 in moderate-to-severe COPD patients compared to placebo thereby meeting its primary objective.
Generating sales of $335 million in the first nine months of 2014, up 93% year over year, the COPD portfolio is expected to gain further traction in 2015. It presently includes Onbrez Breezhaler/Arcapta Neohaler, Seebri Breezhaler and Ultibro Breezhaler.
An approval in the U.S. will further strengthen Novartis' COPD portfolio.
We cautiously watch Novartis' efforts to realign its portfolio in order to focus on its core portfolio of pharmaceuticals, eye care and generics. Successful development and commercialization of its pipeline is important at this stage as the company faces generic competition for several key drugs such as Gleevec and Diovan.
Novartis, a large-cap pharma, currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). Investors looking for better-ranked stocks in the health care sector may consider Allergan ( AGN ), Astrazeneca plc ( AZN ) and AbbVie ( ABBV ). While Allergan carries a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), the other two carry a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy).
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | Investors looking for better-ranked stocks in the health care sector may consider Allergan ( AGN ), Astrazeneca plc ( AZN ) and AbbVie ( ABBV ). Click to get this free report NOVARTIS AG-ADR (NVS): Free Stock Analysis Report ASTRAZENECA PLC (AZN): Free Stock Analysis Report ALLERGAN INC (AGN): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. The FLIGHT 1 and 2 studies met their primary objectives as the treatment with twice-daily Ultibro Breezhaler demonstrated statistically- and clinically-significant improvements in lung function at week 12, compared to indacaterol and glycopyrronium bromide in moderate-to-severe COPD patients. | Click to get this free report NOVARTIS AG-ADR (NVS): Free Stock Analysis Report ASTRAZENECA PLC (AZN): Free Stock Analysis Report ALLERGAN INC (AGN): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Investors looking for better-ranked stocks in the health care sector may consider Allergan ( AGN ), Astrazeneca plc ( AZN ) and AbbVie ( ABBV ). The FLIGHT 1 and 2 studies met their primary objectives as the treatment with twice-daily Ultibro Breezhaler demonstrated statistically- and clinically-significant improvements in lung function at week 12, compared to indacaterol and glycopyrronium bromide in moderate-to-severe COPD patients. | Click to get this free report NOVARTIS AG-ADR (NVS): Free Stock Analysis Report ASTRAZENECA PLC (AZN): Free Stock Analysis Report ALLERGAN INC (AGN): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Investors looking for better-ranked stocks in the health care sector may consider Allergan ( AGN ), Astrazeneca plc ( AZN ) and AbbVie ( ABBV ). Novartis ( NVS ) recently announced positive top-line results from phase III trials on chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) drugs Ultibro Breezhaler 110/50 mcg and Seebri Breezhaler 50 mcg. | Investors looking for better-ranked stocks in the health care sector may consider Allergan ( AGN ), Astrazeneca plc ( AZN ) and AbbVie ( ABBV ). Click to get this free report NOVARTIS AG-ADR (NVS): Free Stock Analysis Report ASTRAZENECA PLC (AZN): Free Stock Analysis Report ALLERGAN INC (AGN): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. It presently includes Onbrez Breezhaler/Arcapta Neohaler, Seebri Breezhaler and Ultibro Breezhaler. | 47f84ef1-a93e-491b-89e8-963d0f2fe666 |
27152.0 | 2015-01-12 00:00:00 UTC | Shire to Acquire NPS Pharmaceuticals for $5.2B - Analyst Blog | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/shire-to-acquire-nps-pharmaceuticals-for-%245.2b-analyst-blog-2015-01-12 | nan | nan | In a move to further strengthen its rare disease portfolio, Shire plc ( SHPG ) announced that it will acquire NPS Pharmaceuticals, Inc ( NPSP ), a biopharmaceutical company focused on rare diseases, for $46.00 per share or approximately $5.2 billion in total.
The offered price of $46.00 per share represents a 51% premium to NPS Pharma's share price of $30.47 on Dec 16, 2014. The closing of the transaction is expected in the first quarter of 2015.
The Acquisition's Strategic Fit to Shire's Portfolio
The Boards of Directors of both the companies have approved the transaction. NPS Pharma's sole marketed drug Gattex, a subcutaneous injection, is approved in the U.S. and the EU (European trade name: Revestive) for treating adults with short bowel syndrome, dependent on parenteral support.
The drug enjoys orphan drug status in the U.S. and generated sales of $67.9 million in the nine months ending Sep 30, 2014. Addition of this product to Shire's portfolio will further strengthen its gastrointestinal (GI) franchise.
NPS Pharma has a late-stage product in its pipeline - Natpara (rhPTH [1-84]) which is being evaluated for the treatment of hypoparathyroidism (HPT). The candidate is currently under review in the U.S. with an FDA PDUFA action date for the Biologics License Application set on Jan 24, 2015. It is also under review in the EU. Upon approval, the product would be the only bioengineered hormone replacement therapy for use in the treatment of HPT, a rare endocrine disease.
Shire expects the acquisition to be accretive to the bottom line from 2016 onwards. Shire also expects to realize operating synergies beginning in 2016 and growing substantially thereafter.
Our Take
Shire currently carries a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy). We are encouraged by Shire's efforts to boost its rare disease portfolio. Shire had repositioned its business in 2013, undertaking a realignment program with strategic focus on rare diseases and greater operational discipline. The acquisition of erstwhile ViroPharma in 2014 was a step in the same direction, which added Cinryze to its portfolio.
With AbbVie ( ABBV ) terminating its acquisition offer in Oct 2014, we expect Shire to focus on its existing drugs and pipeline. We believe that the NPS Pharma acquisition will boost Shire's revenues and complement the company's GI portfolio. The rumors of the acquisition had surfaced last month, following which the share prices of both companies had shot up.
NPS Pharma currently carries a Zacks Rank #4 (Sell). Right now, Biodel Inc. ( BIOD ) also looks attractive with the same rank as Shire.
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | With AbbVie ( ABBV ) terminating its acquisition offer in Oct 2014, we expect Shire to focus on its existing drugs and pipeline. Click to get this free report SHIRE PLC-ADR (SHPG): Free Stock Analysis Report NPS PHARMA INC (NPSP): Free Stock Analysis Report BIODEL INC (BIOD): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. NPS Pharma's sole marketed drug Gattex, a subcutaneous injection, is approved in the U.S. and the EU (European trade name: Revestive) for treating adults with short bowel syndrome, dependent on parenteral support. | Click to get this free report SHIRE PLC-ADR (SHPG): Free Stock Analysis Report NPS PHARMA INC (NPSP): Free Stock Analysis Report BIODEL INC (BIOD): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. With AbbVie ( ABBV ) terminating its acquisition offer in Oct 2014, we expect Shire to focus on its existing drugs and pipeline. In a move to further strengthen its rare disease portfolio, Shire plc ( SHPG ) announced that it will acquire NPS Pharmaceuticals, Inc ( NPSP ), a biopharmaceutical company focused on rare diseases, for $46.00 per share or approximately $5.2 billion in total. | Click to get this free report SHIRE PLC-ADR (SHPG): Free Stock Analysis Report NPS PHARMA INC (NPSP): Free Stock Analysis Report BIODEL INC (BIOD): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. With AbbVie ( ABBV ) terminating its acquisition offer in Oct 2014, we expect Shire to focus on its existing drugs and pipeline. In a move to further strengthen its rare disease portfolio, Shire plc ( SHPG ) announced that it will acquire NPS Pharmaceuticals, Inc ( NPSP ), a biopharmaceutical company focused on rare diseases, for $46.00 per share or approximately $5.2 billion in total. | With AbbVie ( ABBV ) terminating its acquisition offer in Oct 2014, we expect Shire to focus on its existing drugs and pipeline. Click to get this free report SHIRE PLC-ADR (SHPG): Free Stock Analysis Report NPS PHARMA INC (NPSP): Free Stock Analysis Report BIODEL INC (BIOD): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. In a move to further strengthen its rare disease portfolio, Shire plc ( SHPG ) announced that it will acquire NPS Pharmaceuticals, Inc ( NPSP ), a biopharmaceutical company focused on rare diseases, for $46.00 per share or approximately $5.2 billion in total. | 01c12e96-c6d4-42ff-b8a5-7110fd074f18 |
27153.0 | 2015-01-11 00:00:00 UTC | 3 Ways Gilead Sciences, Inc. Could Still Be in Big Trouble | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/3-ways-gilead-sciences-inc-could-still-be-big-trouble-2015-01-11 | nan | nan | Arguably no biotech stock thrilled investors in 2014 more than Gilead Sciences . Gilead finished the year up 26%, about double the performance of the broad-market indexes, and the approval and exceptional launch of hepatitis C drugs Sovaldi and Harvoni was cause for much excitement.
Quality of care takes a giant leap forward
As a quick history refresher, as recently as 2011 the standard of care for hepatitis C, a progressive disease of the liver that can lead to complications and death, was the combination of interferon and ribavirin. This combo worked about half the time in ridding a patient of detectable levels of HCV, and it had many unpleasant side effects, including rashes and flu-like symptoms. Then in 2011, Vertex Pharmaceuticals introduced Incivek , a pill that eliminated detectable levels of HCV in nearly 80% of patients, but it still had to be administered with interferon and ribavirin.
Source: OECD Health Statistics, 2013, WHO global health expenditure database.
Within the U.S. there's little bickering among insurers, pharmacy-benefits managers, and Congress over the pricing of drugs. If a drug developer comes out with a five- or six-digit annual price tag on a drug, most are willing to accept it. Gilead's Sovaldi and Harvoni, for example, run $84,000 and $94,500 over a 12-week treatment course.
Overseas governments and regulatory agencies aren't as forgiving. In 2013, India placed price caps on 30% of the drugs sold within the country, and in July 2014 the National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority noted it would cap the price of an additional 108 drugs in order to make them more affordable to India's citizens, many of whom don't have health insurance.
In Switzerland, the government also took a line in the sand approach with drug developers. For instance, it asked Roche to lower the cost on its cancer drug Perjeta to 20% below what it had been charging in select EU countries. Roche refused, and Switzerland simply removed it from the reimbursed drugs list.
It's possible that Congress could follow a similar route. In an effort to halt drug price inflation and protect citizens and insurers, it could implement price caps on developed drugs, or perhaps institute other value-added measures that determine how much should be charged by a drug developer based on how much a drug measurably helps a patient. Sovaldi and Harvoni are clearly helping patients, but it's arguable that the drugs are not worth $84,000 and $94,500 per year.
The downside to these price caps is that they could discourage innovation. Big pharma thrives in the U.S. because of the ability to net high prescription prices. Any capping of those prices could lead to pharmaceutical companies looking elsewhere for their next research facility.
2. A more effective drug hits the market
Both Gilead's Sovaldi and Harvoni, as well as AbbVie 's recently approved Viekira Pak, are highly effective treatments. In studies, these drugs led to between a 90% and 100% sustained virologic response, or SVR, with most data culling around the mid-90% area.
Source: Merck & Co.,
But, this still means there's a margin for improvement since not every patient achieved a complete SVR. Thus, the second way Gilead's dynamic duo could run into trouble is with the emergence of a superior HCV treatment.
While that might seem like a long shot now, consider just how far we've come just since 2011. In four years we went from a 50% cure rate to a 90% or better cure rate. In another five to 10 years we may be looking at 100%. The question is, will Gilead's duo still play a major role then?
Don't forget that companies like Merck are pushing hard to enter the HCV field with novel drugs. Merck's combo of MK-5172 and MK-8742 announced an SVR of 98% this past April, and the addition of Idenix Pharmaceuticals' product pipeline to its own could allow for a handful of new and/or combo therapies to emerge.
Additionally, it's not just the cure rate Gilead has to worry about. If another treatment comes along which can get the job done at a 90% SVR or higher in a shorter time span, say four or six weeks, then Gilead could see its sales vanish quickly. Its peers certainly are looking at shorter treatment durations, but luckily for Gilead none have succeeded thus far.
Put simply, two or three companies aren't going to cure the estimated 180 million people around the world with HCV overnight, so Merck and its peers have plenty of time to develop a superior HCV drug.
3. A price war commences
Lastly, Gilead could find itself in big trouble if equally effective treatments emerge which are priced at a discount to Sovaldi and Harvoni.
Source: Express Scripts.
Last month we witnessed AbbVie and pharmacy-benefits manager Express Scriptsstrike a deal whereby Express Scripts' eligible customers who are HCV genotype 1 will exclusively receive Viekira Pak. In return, Express Scripts will receive a "significant discount" off of Viekira Pak's marketed price of more than $83,000. Investors are currently worried about how this deal might affect Gilead, but I'm not too terribly concerned, as this is a sticky instance where consumer choices are being decided for them by the PBM. I suspect this has the potential to backfire on Express Scripts, especially with some patients still needing to take ribavirin as part of Viekira Pak.
Instead, I'd be concerned about Merck, Johnson & Johnson , or another major player introducing a highly effective genotype 1 drug that can be taken without interferon or a ribavirin that prices at $60,000 to $70,000 per treatment course. We know Gilead's therapy works well, but we also know that consumers really dislike spending their money on prescription products.
For instance, AstraZeneca 's FluMist is just as effective as a standard flu shot, but because it's a nasal spray and less painful than a shot, it costs $1 to $15 more than a traditional flu shot. You might assume people would pay a few bucks extra for that convenience, but you'd be wrong. FluMist has been a major sales disappointment while standard needle-based vaccines continue to thrive.
Consumers care about price and choice. When you allow the consumer a few options they'll tend to gravitate toward the cheapest one. As more treatment options become available, it's possible Gilead's profitability could take a big hit if it gets involved in a price war.
Though Gilead could have a good year, this is the one great health care stock to buy for 2015 and beyond!
Healthcare stocks soared in 2014, and 2015 is shaping up to be another great year for stocks. But if you want to make sure you're buying one of the best health care stocks, you need to know where to start. That's why The Motley Fool's chief investment officer just published a brand-new research report that reveals his top stock for the year ahead. To get the full story on this year's stock -- completely free -- simply click here .
The article 3 Ways Gilead Sciences, Inc. Could Still Be in Big Trouble originally appeared on Fool.com.
Sean Williams has no material interest in any companies mentioned in this article. You can follow him on CAPS under the screen nameTMFUltraLong, track every pick he makes under the screen nameTrackUltraLong, and check him out on Twitter, where he goes by the handle@TMFUltraLong.The Motley Fool owns shares of, and recommends Express Scripts, Gilead Sciences, and Johnson & Johnson. It also recommends Vertex Pharmaceuticals. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days . We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy .
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | A more effective drug hits the market Both Gilead's Sovaldi and Harvoni, as well as AbbVie 's recently approved Viekira Pak, are highly effective treatments. Last month we witnessed AbbVie and pharmacy-benefits manager Express Scriptsstrike a deal whereby Express Scripts' eligible customers who are HCV genotype 1 will exclusively receive Viekira Pak. Gilead finished the year up 26%, about double the performance of the broad-market indexes, and the approval and exceptional launch of hepatitis C drugs Sovaldi and Harvoni was cause for much excitement. | A more effective drug hits the market Both Gilead's Sovaldi and Harvoni, as well as AbbVie 's recently approved Viekira Pak, are highly effective treatments. Last month we witnessed AbbVie and pharmacy-benefits manager Express Scriptsstrike a deal whereby Express Scripts' eligible customers who are HCV genotype 1 will exclusively receive Viekira Pak. Instead, I'd be concerned about Merck, Johnson & Johnson , or another major player introducing a highly effective genotype 1 drug that can be taken without interferon or a ribavirin that prices at $60,000 to $70,000 per treatment course. | A more effective drug hits the market Both Gilead's Sovaldi and Harvoni, as well as AbbVie 's recently approved Viekira Pak, are highly effective treatments. Last month we witnessed AbbVie and pharmacy-benefits manager Express Scriptsstrike a deal whereby Express Scripts' eligible customers who are HCV genotype 1 will exclusively receive Viekira Pak. In 2013, India placed price caps on 30% of the drugs sold within the country, and in July 2014 the National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority noted it would cap the price of an additional 108 drugs in order to make them more affordable to India's citizens, many of whom don't have health insurance. | A more effective drug hits the market Both Gilead's Sovaldi and Harvoni, as well as AbbVie 's recently approved Viekira Pak, are highly effective treatments. Last month we witnessed AbbVie and pharmacy-benefits manager Express Scriptsstrike a deal whereby Express Scripts' eligible customers who are HCV genotype 1 will exclusively receive Viekira Pak. Gilead's Sovaldi and Harvoni, for example, run $84,000 and $94,500 over a 12-week treatment course. | b11df117-48eb-44e3-97c6-69a813073c2a |
27154.0 | 2015-01-11 00:00:00 UTC | Should AbbVie Inc. Or Gilead Sciences Buy These Tiny Biotech Stocks? | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/should-abbvie-inc-or-gilead-sciences-buy-these-tiny-biotech-stocks-2015-01-11 | nan | nan | Recently approved new drugs from AbbVie and Gilead Sciences means that the two biotech titans are locked in a heated battle for hepatitis C market share, but these companies may be better served shifting their attention away from this tussle toward the next generation of hepatitis C drugs making their way through drug pipelines at Achillion Pharmaceuticals and Regulus Therapeutics .
Source: AbbVie
Dominating disorders
There's little question that Gilead Sciences' and AbbVie's success stems from a proven ability to launch revolutionary drugs that redefine their markets.
Until recently, Gilead Sciences' revenue came mostly courtesy of its market share dominance in treating HIV, an often deadly infectious disease that affects more than 1.1 million people in the United States. Gilead Sciences markets a slate of top selling HIV therapies, including five that could achieve billion dollar blockbuster status this year. As a result, Gilead Sciences is on track to deliver sales of more than $10 billion in the coming year from its HIV medicines alone. The company's success in HIV treatment has provided it with the financial fuel necessary for it to develop the now highly successful hepatitis C drugs Sovaldi, which was approved in December 2013 and notched sales of more than $8.5 billion in the first nine months of 2014, and Harvoni, which won FDA approval in October.
Meanwhile, AbbVie has made a name for itself in treating a variety of autoimmune disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis and psoriasis, with its top selling drug Humira. Humira, which was the globe's best selling medicine in 2013, has racked up sales of $9.2 billion through the first nine months of this year and accounts for roughly 63% of AbbVie's total revenue. Humira's widespread success has similarly allowed AbbVie to plow significant money back into research and development, which in turn produced AbbVie's own hepatitis C therapy, Viekira Pak, which won FDA approval last month.
Source: Gilead Sciences
Battles ahead
Gilead Sciences' Sovaldi gave the company first-mover advantage over AbbVie, and the launch of Harvoni further entrenches Gilead Sciences' leadership in the hepatitis C indication, but AbbVie is likely to make inroads this year following the launch of Viekira Pak and the inking of an exclusivity deal with pharmacy benefit manager Express Scripts .
Harvoni is arguably a better therapy than Viekira Pak given that it's dosed just once daily versus Viekira Pak's up to four pills daily. Additionally, up to 40% of Harvoni patients can qualify for an eight-week treatment course, which is considerably shorter than Viekira Pak's 12-week requirement. Harvoni also offers an advantage over Viekira Pak in that it doesn't require being administered alongside side effect-laden ribavirin, a prior generation hepatitis C therapy that is still required to be used alongside Viekira Pak.
Those advantages suggest that Gilead Sciences will remain the dominant player in hepatitis C this year, despite payer push-back and AbbVie's best efforts to unseat it. However, AbbVie won't be left out in the cold. The Express Scripts exclusivity deal likely covers around 175,000 potential hepatitis C patients, so Viekira Pak could still be a multi-billion dollar blockbuster this year.
However, it's far less clear who the winner will be in 2016. That's because I believe the next battle over hepatitis C market share will be waged over treatment duration, rather than cure rates. After all, Harvoni and Viekira Pak both boast cure rates that are in the mid to high 90% range, so there's unlikely to be significant advances in efficacy from here, but there is certainly room to drive treatment duration shorter.
Reimagining treatment
If I'm correct, then Gilead Sciences and AbbVie should be concentrating less over battling on price this year and more on next generation drugs that can reduce treatment duration to six-, four-, two-weeks, or dare I say, a single dose.
A number of programs are under way to lower the treatment burden on patients (and improve adherence rates in the process), but it's programs at Achillion Pharmaceuticals and Regulus Therapeutics that are most intriguing to me.
In November, Achillion reported that its ACH-3102, which targets the same protein as Gilead Sciences' ledipasvir (the drug that is combined with Sovaldi to make Harvoni) helped reduce treatment duration to eight weeks. That small phase 2 study also delivered a 100% functional cure in patients that received ACH-3102 dosed alongside Sovaldi. Importantly, while Harvoni's eight-week treatment course is only approved for patients who have a viral load of below 6 million IU/ml, nine of the 12 patients in Achillion's study had viral loads above that level. That's important because it may suggest that ACH-3102 is more effective than ledipasvir.
Of course, ACH-3102 still needs to be proven in far larger late-stage trials, but Achillion also recently reported interim results that indicate that combining ACH-3102 alongside Sovaldi was equally effective over an even shorter six-week treatment period.
A six-week treatment course could arguably be a game-changer, but researchers' Holy Grail is likely the delivering of a functional cure in even less time.
If so, it may be Regulus Therapeutics that has the most intriguing potential therapy. Regulus Therapeutics is researching micro RNA therapies that incorporate technology from its founders: the RNA leaders Isis Pharmaceuticals and Alnylam .
In a small phase 1 trial, a single dose of Regulus Therapeutics' RG-101 resulted in a 4.1 log drop in hepatitis C viral load at 29 days. That knockdown is similar to existing therapies, including Sovaldi. Additionally, six of the 14 patients studied had hepatitis C levels that were below the level of quantification at day 29, and three of the patients had un-quantifiable levels at day 57.
Looking ahead
Gilead Sciences and AbbVie have a lot at stake. Hepatitis C affects more than 150 million people globally, including 3 million in America and another 9 million in Europe. That means it's a major indication that will continue to generate billions of dollars in sales over the coming decade. Whether or not either of these companies decides to bolster their internal research efforts by acquiring these, or other, emerging biotech companies is unknown, but even if they don't, investors may want to keep them on their radar.
1 great health care stock to buy for 2015 and beyond
Healthcare stocks soared in 2014, and 2015 is shaping up to be another great year for stocks. But if you want to make sure you're buying one of the best health care stocks, you need to know where to start. That's why The Motley Fool's chief investment officer just published a brand-new research report that reveals his top stock for the year ahead. To get the full story on this year's stock -- completely free -- simply click here .
The article Should AbbVie Inc. Or Gilead Sciences Buy These Tiny Biotech Stocks? originally appeared on Fool.com.
Todd Campbell owns shares of Gilead Sciences and Achillion. Todd owns E.B. Capital Markets, LLC. E.B. Capital's clients may or may not have positions in the companies mentioned. Todd owns Gundalow Advisors, LLC. Gundalow's clients do not have positions in the companies mentioned. The Motley Fool recommends Alnylam Pharmaceuticals, Express Scripts, Gilead Sciences, and Isis Pharmaceuticals. The Motley Fool owns shares of Express Scripts and Gilead Sciences. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days . We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy .
Copyright © 1995 - 2015 The Motley Fool, LLC. All rights reserved. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy .
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | Recently approved new drugs from AbbVie and Gilead Sciences means that the two biotech titans are locked in a heated battle for hepatitis C market share, but these companies may be better served shifting their attention away from this tussle toward the next generation of hepatitis C drugs making their way through drug pipelines at Achillion Pharmaceuticals and Regulus Therapeutics . Source: AbbVie Dominating disorders There's little question that Gilead Sciences' and AbbVie's success stems from a proven ability to launch revolutionary drugs that redefine their markets. Meanwhile, AbbVie has made a name for itself in treating a variety of autoimmune disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis and psoriasis, with its top selling drug Humira. | Humira's widespread success has similarly allowed AbbVie to plow significant money back into research and development, which in turn produced AbbVie's own hepatitis C therapy, Viekira Pak, which won FDA approval last month. Source: Gilead Sciences Battles ahead Gilead Sciences' Sovaldi gave the company first-mover advantage over AbbVie, and the launch of Harvoni further entrenches Gilead Sciences' leadership in the hepatitis C indication, but AbbVie is likely to make inroads this year following the launch of Viekira Pak and the inking of an exclusivity deal with pharmacy benefit manager Express Scripts . Recently approved new drugs from AbbVie and Gilead Sciences means that the two biotech titans are locked in a heated battle for hepatitis C market share, but these companies may be better served shifting their attention away from this tussle toward the next generation of hepatitis C drugs making their way through drug pipelines at Achillion Pharmaceuticals and Regulus Therapeutics . | Recently approved new drugs from AbbVie and Gilead Sciences means that the two biotech titans are locked in a heated battle for hepatitis C market share, but these companies may be better served shifting their attention away from this tussle toward the next generation of hepatitis C drugs making their way through drug pipelines at Achillion Pharmaceuticals and Regulus Therapeutics . Source: Gilead Sciences Battles ahead Gilead Sciences' Sovaldi gave the company first-mover advantage over AbbVie, and the launch of Harvoni further entrenches Gilead Sciences' leadership in the hepatitis C indication, but AbbVie is likely to make inroads this year following the launch of Viekira Pak and the inking of an exclusivity deal with pharmacy benefit manager Express Scripts . Reimagining treatment If I'm correct, then Gilead Sciences and AbbVie should be concentrating less over battling on price this year and more on next generation drugs that can reduce treatment duration to six-, four-, two-weeks, or dare I say, a single dose. | Recently approved new drugs from AbbVie and Gilead Sciences means that the two biotech titans are locked in a heated battle for hepatitis C market share, but these companies may be better served shifting their attention away from this tussle toward the next generation of hepatitis C drugs making their way through drug pipelines at Achillion Pharmaceuticals and Regulus Therapeutics . Source: Gilead Sciences Battles ahead Gilead Sciences' Sovaldi gave the company first-mover advantage over AbbVie, and the launch of Harvoni further entrenches Gilead Sciences' leadership in the hepatitis C indication, but AbbVie is likely to make inroads this year following the launch of Viekira Pak and the inking of an exclusivity deal with pharmacy benefit manager Express Scripts . Source: AbbVie Dominating disorders There's little question that Gilead Sciences' and AbbVie's success stems from a proven ability to launch revolutionary drugs that redefine their markets. | 12fc171a-b196-4e38-a76a-4ee1321fac5b |
27155.0 | 2015-01-10 00:00:00 UTC | This Technology Could Create Cheaper Marijuana Drugs | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/technology-could-create-cheaper-marijuana-drugs-2015-01-10 | nan | nan | Luckily, Amyris was able to successfully scale production in engineered yeast before bowing out to Sanofi , which is distributing the artemisinin-based therapies under a "no profit, no loss" principle to ensure supply is available for the world's poorest. The pharmaceutical giant aims to produce up to one-third of global demand from a single manufacturing facility within the next few years.
The proven commercial success of artemisinic acid provides a good basis for Hyasynth's technology strategy. While still in the early stages of development, the synthetic biology-driven platform could make cannabinoid-based medicines widely accessible for a range of potential ailments. It could also circumvent the intellectual property of drugs currently on the market or in the pipeline.
Threat or just another player?
Cannabinoid-based medicine is quickly becoming a crowded and competitive market. For instance, AbbVie sells the THC-containing drug Marinol, which treats nausea caused by chemotherapy and extreme weight loss caused by AIDS. It fetched over $100 million in annual sales before generic competition moved in to steal market share. Sales fell to $40 million per year the last time investors were updated on its progress in 2008.
Marinol contains a chemically synthesized version of THC, which is likely cheaper to produce than competitors made with pharming. However, the drug has been prescribed since the 1980's, which gives several companies hope that new formulations of cannabinoid combinations may be able to compete in efficacy and dosing for similar applications.
Meanwhile, GW Pharmaceuticals has gone all-in on cannabinoid compounds and has created a world-class Cannabis breeding platform capable of fine-tuning production of various cannabinoids, as depicted in the simplified metabolic pathway chart below.
GW Pharmaceuticals
The company is currently evaluating THC- and CBD-containing Sativex in three phase 3 trials in the United States for treating cancer pain and spasticity from multiple sclerosis, although the drug is already approved in over two dozen countries. Two of the phase 3 trials are identical, with the first having failed to meet its primary endpoint in early January. The second will report results in the second quarter, while the third study, consisting of a more complex design, will announce its findings in late 2015.
Looking beyond Sativex, GW Pharmaceuticals is evaluating five additional cannabinoid compounds in clinical trials worldwide for treating type 2 diabetes, pediatric epilepsy, and more. News that four new phase 3 trials for the company's second leading drug, Epidiolex (the cannabinoid CBD), would commence in early 2015 for two orphan diseases, as well as a phase 2 trial for epilepsy, offset news that Sativex missed in its first phase 3 trial. It also shows the investor enthusiasm surrounding cannabinoid-based medicines.
So will Hyasynth's novel microbial manufacturing technology become a real threat to leaders such as GW Pharmaceuticals? That's certainly a possibility, but given the lengthy timelines of clinical trials, it may make more sense for the company to become a supplier of cannabinoids for medical research and potential treatments rather than a direct competitor. There are over 100 additional cannabinoid compounds found in Cannabis plants that have yet to be fully characterized. Isolating each from plants could take years -- after all, GW Pharmaceuticals has spent tens of millions of dollars and discovered just eight molecules with therapeutic potential.
It would be significantly easier to manipulate genetic pathways in microbes than in plants (breeding), which could produce batches of target molecules in days, not months. That could potentially allow Hyasynth to become the perfect partner to the growing field while playing the role of supplier rather than competitor. For now, however, the technology platform remains years away.
What does it mean for investors?
Patients, investors, and pharmaceutical companies are excited about the big potential of medical marijuana and cannabinoid-based medicines, but pharming remains a limiting factor in its widespread use. Unlike chemical manufacturing, innovations in pharmaceutical manufacturing are bound by lengthy clinical trials that can span a decade or more. That alone could push Hyasynth to pursue a business model focused on supplying pharmaceutical companies and research centers with cheap, pure cannabinoids rather than competing directly in clinical trials. That's good news for GW Pharmaceuticals and others betting their future on marijuana-inspired medicines.
While intriguing and, in my mind, capable of being the future of pharmaceutical and industrial manufacturing, a synthetic biology platform capable of producing cannabinoid compounds remains at least a few years away. Related successes in replicating plant metabolisms in microbes does show its potential for success -- and serves as a reminder that innovation can bring more than incremental changes to industries.
Warren Buffett: This new technology is a "real threat"
At the recent Berkshire Hathaway annual meeting, Warren Buffett admitted this emerging technology is threatening his biggest cash-cow. Buffett's fear can be your gain. Only a few investors are embracing this new market, which experts say will be worth over $2 trillion . Find out how you can cash in on this technology before the crowd catches on, by jumping onto one company that could get you the biggest piece of the action. Click here to access a free investor alert on the company we're calling the brains behind the technology.
The article This Technology Could Create Cheaper Marijuana Drugs originally appeared on Fool.com.
Maxx Chatsko owns shares of Amyris. Check out his personal portfolio , CAPS page , previous writing for The Motley Fool, and follow him on Twitter to keep up with developments in the synthetic biology field.The Motley Fool has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days . We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy .
Copyright © 1995 - 2015 The Motley Fool, LLC. All rights reserved. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy .
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | For instance, AbbVie sells the THC-containing drug Marinol, which treats nausea caused by chemotherapy and extreme weight loss caused by AIDS. Luckily, Amyris was able to successfully scale production in engineered yeast before bowing out to Sanofi , which is distributing the artemisinin-based therapies under a "no profit, no loss" principle to ensure supply is available for the world's poorest. GW Pharmaceuticals The company is currently evaluating THC- and CBD-containing Sativex in three phase 3 trials in the United States for treating cancer pain and spasticity from multiple sclerosis, although the drug is already approved in over two dozen countries. | For instance, AbbVie sells the THC-containing drug Marinol, which treats nausea caused by chemotherapy and extreme weight loss caused by AIDS. Looking beyond Sativex, GW Pharmaceuticals is evaluating five additional cannabinoid compounds in clinical trials worldwide for treating type 2 diabetes, pediatric epilepsy, and more. Unlike chemical manufacturing, innovations in pharmaceutical manufacturing are bound by lengthy clinical trials that can span a decade or more. | For instance, AbbVie sells the THC-containing drug Marinol, which treats nausea caused by chemotherapy and extreme weight loss caused by AIDS. News that four new phase 3 trials for the company's second leading drug, Epidiolex (the cannabinoid CBD), would commence in early 2015 for two orphan diseases, as well as a phase 2 trial for epilepsy, offset news that Sativex missed in its first phase 3 trial. Patients, investors, and pharmaceutical companies are excited about the big potential of medical marijuana and cannabinoid-based medicines, but pharming remains a limiting factor in its widespread use. | For instance, AbbVie sells the THC-containing drug Marinol, which treats nausea caused by chemotherapy and extreme weight loss caused by AIDS. Cannabinoid-based medicine is quickly becoming a crowded and competitive market. Looking beyond Sativex, GW Pharmaceuticals is evaluating five additional cannabinoid compounds in clinical trials worldwide for treating type 2 diabetes, pediatric epilepsy, and more. | 115ecfe4-f310-493a-bc69-c42c5f7b4dd4 |
27156.0 | 2015-01-10 00:00:00 UTC | The Dark Secret in the AbbVie-Gilead Sciences Hepatitis C Drug War | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/dark-secret-abbvie-gilead-sciences-hepatitis-c-drug-war-2015-01-10 | nan | nan | Figuring out the revenue AbbVie and Gilead Sciences are going to make on their new hepatitis C drugs shouldn't be that hard. It's quite simply:
Granted, there are changes in inventories that can move revenue off that calculated number, but they should average out over time.
Source: AbbVie
There are a couple of companies -- IMS Health and Symphony Health Solutions -- that track the number of prescriptions for drugs. While they can't capture all the prescriptions, if they're consistently missing the same percentage, it's easy to factor the missing prescriptions into the calculation.
It's the price that makes it hard for investors to predict sales. When Viekira Pak was approved by the Food and Drug Administration, AbbVie quickly announced the price of $83,319, which is pretty much in line with the price of Gilead Sciences' Harvoni.
Source:Gilead
But a few days later, pharmacy benefit manager Express Scriptssaid that it was making Viekira Pak the sole hepatitis C drug on its formulary for patients infected with the genotype 1 virus (the only genotype Viekira Pak is approved to treat).
And Monday, news outlets reported that Gilead's Harvoni and Sovaldi will be the preferred treatments on many of the plans for the other major pharmacy benefit manager, CVS Health .
To get the exclusive contracts, AbbVie and Gilead had to offer discounts to the pharmacy benefit managers.
But how much?
That depends on who you talk to. And even then, you'll have to read between the lines.
The New York Times has this paraphrase from Steve Miller, the chief medical officer of Express Scripts:
"Significantly narrow" could be a pretty large discount depending on how significant it really is and what Miller is using as a reference. In Europe, Gilead's drug sells for 17% to 29% lower than Viekira Pak's U.S. list price.
AbbVie reportedly told Evercore ISI analyst Mark Schoenebaum that it didn't give Express Scripts an "outsized discount."
I asked AbbVie's external PR guy about what "outsized" meant. He said he'd check, but never got back to me with an answer from AbbVie.
Not that I was expecting one. It's not in any of the companies' best interest for the public to know what the discount is. AbbVie and Gilead don't want each other to know what it would take to be outbid. And Express Scripts and CVS would just be helping out their competitor if they released the discount they were able to negotiate.
And so we wait ...
When AbbVie and Gilead release first quarter earnings in a few months, we'll be able to calculate the average price per prescription for the drugs. The two PBMs don't cover everyone with insurance, and some companies that use Express Scripts and CVS come up with their own formularies, but the average price will give us a good idea how much AbbVie and Gilead have to compete on price.
The big question is how much of the discount the companies can make up for with volume. Many insurance companies have limited the use of the next-generation hepatitis C drugs to only the most advanced patients. If the lower price allows more patients to receive treatment, the increased volume could make up for some of the revenue lost to discounting.
At least we can measure volume.
1 great health care stock to buy for 2015 and beyond
Healthcare stocks soared in 2014, and 2015 is shaping up to be another great year for stocks. But if you want to make sure you're buying one of the best health care stocks, you need to know where to start. That's why The Motley Fool's chief investment officer just published a brand-new research report that reveals his top stock for the year ahead. To get the full story on this year's stock -- completely free -- simply click here .
The article The Dark Secret in the AbbVie-Gilead Sciences Hepatitis C Drug War originally appeared on Fool.com.
Brian Orelli has no position in any stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool recommends CVS Health, Express Scripts, and Gilead Sciences. The Motley Fool owns shares of Express Scripts and Gilead Sciences. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days . We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy .
Copyright © 1995 - 2015 The Motley Fool, LLC. All rights reserved. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy .
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | AbbVie reportedly told Evercore ISI analyst Mark Schoenebaum that it didn't give Express Scripts an "outsized discount." Figuring out the revenue AbbVie and Gilead Sciences are going to make on their new hepatitis C drugs shouldn't be that hard. Source: AbbVie There are a couple of companies -- IMS Health and Symphony Health Solutions -- that track the number of prescriptions for drugs. | AbbVie reportedly told Evercore ISI analyst Mark Schoenebaum that it didn't give Express Scripts an "outsized discount." Figuring out the revenue AbbVie and Gilead Sciences are going to make on their new hepatitis C drugs shouldn't be that hard. Source: AbbVie There are a couple of companies -- IMS Health and Symphony Health Solutions -- that track the number of prescriptions for drugs. | When Viekira Pak was approved by the Food and Drug Administration, AbbVie quickly announced the price of $83,319, which is pretty much in line with the price of Gilead Sciences' Harvoni. The two PBMs don't cover everyone with insurance, and some companies that use Express Scripts and CVS come up with their own formularies, but the average price will give us a good idea how much AbbVie and Gilead have to compete on price. Figuring out the revenue AbbVie and Gilead Sciences are going to make on their new hepatitis C drugs shouldn't be that hard. | Figuring out the revenue AbbVie and Gilead Sciences are going to make on their new hepatitis C drugs shouldn't be that hard. When AbbVie and Gilead release first quarter earnings in a few months, we'll be able to calculate the average price per prescription for the drugs. Source: AbbVie There are a couple of companies -- IMS Health and Symphony Health Solutions -- that track the number of prescriptions for drugs. | c64ecc8f-3a38-4909-a053-ace0920025f0 |
27157.0 | 2015-01-10 00:00:00 UTC | Cancel JPMorgan! Plenty of Pre-Conference Data and Deals to Digest | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/cancel-jpmorgan-plenty-pre-conference-data-and-deals-digest-2015-01-10 | nan | nan | JPMorgan 's annual healthcare conference is set to kick off next week, but many companies already announced clinical trial data and deals ahead of the conference. Part of the early release has to do with SEC regulations.
In addition to public comments made at their presentations, the companies will have many one-on-one meetings with investors. Having the data out there in public form allows the companies to talk about it while avoiding potential insider-trading issues. Releasing data before the conference also allows companies to avoid having their news get washed out by the data dump at the conference.
In case you missed it, here's a rundown of the drug company news we got this week:
Isis Pharmaceuticals had a busy week. On Monday, the company announced it signed up another partner, Johnson & Johnson , to work on autoimmune diseases in the GI tract using Isis' antisense technology.
On Thursday, the biotech raised 2014 guidance; unfortunately it's still a negative number with Isis expecting to have a pro forma net operating loss in the $15 million to $19 million range, substantially better than the previous guidance in the low $50 million range.
On Friday, Isis expanded on an agreement with Alnylam Pharmaceuticals to cross-license some of their intellectual property. The litigation lawyers may be crying, but as the leaders in RNA drug treatments, the two companies are probably better off continuing to remain friends rather than fighting it out in court.
Shares of Cempra jumped on Monday after the biotech said its antibiotic solithromycin was just as good as moxifloxacin at treating patients with community-acquired bacterial pneumonia.
Gilead Sciences licensed Phenex Pharmaceuticals' development program for nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, or NASH, for up to $470 if all the milestones are met.
Novartis is jumping into the gene-editing world, signing deals with a pair of privately held companies, Intellia Therapeutics and Caribou Biosciences.
Alkermes had a double dose of good clinical trial data this week, releasing positive phase 3 data for ALKS 5461 in treating depression on Tuesday, and following it up with phase 2 data for ALKS 3831 in schizophrenia patients that was strong enough to justify taking the drug into phase 3 trials.
Pfizer said the Food and Drug administration won't schedule an advisory committee meeting for its breast cancer drug Ibrance, and the company has "entered label discussions with the FDA." That's code for "the drug is going to get approved sooner rather than later."
Amgen and Kite Pharma joined up in a deal that will bring Amgen's cancer targets together with Kite's Chimeric Antigen Receptor ( CAR ) T cell immunotherapy technology. It's not your typical one-sided licensing of a hot technology by a big biotech company because Kite Pharma will retain rights to some of the drugs developed in the collaboration and have to pay Amgen milestone payments if the drugs are successful. Amgen also gets rights to some of the drugs, which could garner Kite milestones in addition to the $60 million upfront payment the smaller biotech is getting.
Shares of Arena Pharmaceuticalsjumped 76% on Wednesday after releasing phase 1b data. While the large increase may be unwarranted, it's mostly a factor of the biotech being undervalued going into the data release.
GW Pharmaceuticals ' data wasn't nearly as pretty. The biotech's marijuana-derived Sativex wasn't able to control pain in cancer patients. Take a look at Todd Campbell 's and Sean Williams ' excellent rundowns on the data, and where GW Pharmaceuticals goes from here.
Biogen Idec 's data on its anti-LINGO-1 data was mixed. In a phase 2 trial of patients with acute optic neuritis, a disease that's caused by damage to an optical nerve, patients taking the drug through the end of the trial saw a 34% improvement in nerve conduction velocity compared to placebo. But if you include the dropouts, the improvement wasn't statistically significant. The per-protocol data is a step in the right direction, but it's far from definitive proof of concept considering that the FDA will include dropouts in a phase 3 trial if Biogen Idec decides to push clinical development further.
Neurocrine Biosciencesjumped on Thursday after its partner AbbVie announced positive phase 3 data for elagolix, reducing pain in women with endometriosis.
Another one of AbbVie's partners, Infinity Pharmaceuticals didn't have such good luck. The biotech is stopping development of duvelisib as a treatment for rheumatoid arthritis after the drug failed a clinical trial in the indication. The duo is still testing duvelisib in various blood cancers.
Separately, AbbVie issued 2015 earnings-per-share guidance of $4.25 to $4.45 on an adjusted basis. At the midpoint, that's more than a 30% increase from its 2014 guidance.
Sanofi 's and Regeneron Pharmaceuticals ' PCSK9 drug, alirocumab, can lower patients' LDL cholesterol -- that's the bad kind -- when dosed once a month. Previous trials have used a dosing schedule of dosing every other week. Given that alirocumab has to be injected -- not to mention competition from Amgen 's PCSK9 drug that's under FDA review -- the added convenience should help sales.
Two smaller biotechs, Incyte and Agenus joined forces on Friday to develop immunology checkpoint modulators designed to spur the immune system to attack tumors. Agenus will get $60 million for bringing its antibody discovery platform to the deal, including a $35 million equity investment from Incyte.
Anything left to report?
The only thing we haven't seen in this pre-JPMorgan news cycle is a major buyout. Sure we had plenty of licensing deals, but let's hope we get a large buyout -- or three! -- to set the tone for the year. Something like Bristol-Myers Squibb 's purchase of Inhibitex on the eve of JP Morgan in 2012; but let's have it work out better for the purchaser.
We'll also likely get some earnings guidance from Celgene , Vertex Pharmaceuticals and others. Look for press releases before the presentations.
Even if all the good clinical trial data and licensing deals have already been announced, we'll still get to hear management elaborate on all the data we've seen so far.
Get some rest, Fools... next week is going to be just as busy.
One great healthcare stock to buy for 2015 and beyond
Healthcare stocks soared in 2014, and 2015 is shaping up to be another great year for stocks. But if you want to make sure you're buying one of the best healthcare stocks, you need to know where to start. That's why The Motley Fool's chief investment officer just published a brand-new research report that reveals his top stock for the year ahead. To get the full story on this year's stock -- completely free -- simply click here .
The article Cancel JPMorgan! Plenty of Pre-Conference Data and Deals to Digest originally appeared on Fool.com.
Brian Orelli has no position in any stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool recommends Alnylam Pharmaceuticals, Celgene, Gilead Sciences, Isis Pharmaceuticals, and Johnson & Johnson. The Motley Fool owns shares of Gilead Sciences and Johnson & Johnson. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days . We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy .
Copyright © 1995 - 2015 The Motley Fool, LLC. All rights reserved. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy .
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | Neurocrine Biosciencesjumped on Thursday after its partner AbbVie announced positive phase 3 data for elagolix, reducing pain in women with endometriosis. Another one of AbbVie's partners, Infinity Pharmaceuticals didn't have such good luck. Separately, AbbVie issued 2015 earnings-per-share guidance of $4.25 to $4.45 on an adjusted basis. | Neurocrine Biosciencesjumped on Thursday after its partner AbbVie announced positive phase 3 data for elagolix, reducing pain in women with endometriosis. Another one of AbbVie's partners, Infinity Pharmaceuticals didn't have such good luck. Separately, AbbVie issued 2015 earnings-per-share guidance of $4.25 to $4.45 on an adjusted basis. | Neurocrine Biosciencesjumped on Thursday after its partner AbbVie announced positive phase 3 data for elagolix, reducing pain in women with endometriosis. Another one of AbbVie's partners, Infinity Pharmaceuticals didn't have such good luck. Separately, AbbVie issued 2015 earnings-per-share guidance of $4.25 to $4.45 on an adjusted basis. | Neurocrine Biosciencesjumped on Thursday after its partner AbbVie announced positive phase 3 data for elagolix, reducing pain in women with endometriosis. Another one of AbbVie's partners, Infinity Pharmaceuticals didn't have such good luck. Separately, AbbVie issued 2015 earnings-per-share guidance of $4.25 to $4.45 on an adjusted basis. | de7d027e-529c-40b2-a6cb-6128bb6d9505 |
27158.0 | 2015-01-09 00:00:00 UTC | S&P 500 Movers: BBBY, WDC | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/sp-500-movers-bbby-wdc-2015-01-09 | nan | nan | In early trading on Friday, shares of Western Digital ( WDC ) topped the list of the day's best performing components of the S&P 500 index, trading up 2.7%. Year to date, Western Digital registers a 2.4% gain.
And the worst performing S&P 500 component thus far on the day is Bed, Bath & Beyond ( BBBY ), trading down 8.3%. Bed, Bath & Beyond is lower by about 4.4% looking at the year to date performance.
Two other components making moves today are AbbVie ( ABBV ), trading down 3.2%, and Mallinckrodt ( MNK ), trading up 2.6% on the day.
VIDEO: S&P 500 Movers: BBBY, WDC
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | Two other components making moves today are AbbVie ( ABBV ), trading down 3.2%, and Mallinckrodt ( MNK ), trading up 2.6% on the day. Year to date, Western Digital registers a 2.4% gain. And the worst performing S&P 500 component thus far on the day is Bed, Bath & Beyond ( BBBY ), trading down 8.3%. | Two other components making moves today are AbbVie ( ABBV ), trading down 3.2%, and Mallinckrodt ( MNK ), trading up 2.6% on the day. And the worst performing S&P 500 component thus far on the day is Bed, Bath & Beyond ( BBBY ), trading down 8.3%. VIDEO: S&P 500 Movers: BBBY, WDC The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | Two other components making moves today are AbbVie ( ABBV ), trading down 3.2%, and Mallinckrodt ( MNK ), trading up 2.6% on the day. In early trading on Friday, shares of Western Digital ( WDC ) topped the list of the day's best performing components of the S&P 500 index, trading up 2.7%. And the worst performing S&P 500 component thus far on the day is Bed, Bath & Beyond ( BBBY ), trading down 8.3%. | Two other components making moves today are AbbVie ( ABBV ), trading down 3.2%, and Mallinckrodt ( MNK ), trading up 2.6% on the day. In early trading on Friday, shares of Western Digital ( WDC ) topped the list of the day's best performing components of the S&P 500 index, trading up 2.7%. And the worst performing S&P 500 component thus far on the day is Bed, Bath & Beyond ( BBBY ), trading down 8.3%. | 64e5b239-4cec-452a-bdc3-5602cd710bbc |
27159.0 | 2015-01-09 00:00:00 UTC | Is Gilead Sciences Inc. Now a Takeover Target? | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/gilead-sciences-inc-now-takeover-target-2015-01-09 | nan | nan | The pharmaceutical industry underwent a widespread consolidation last year, triggered by record profits for some mid- to large-cap companies like Actavis , as well as falling revenues for big pharmas like Merck & Co.
As these conditions are in still in play and big pharma is staring down another $65 billion in losses due to patent issues over the next four years, there is a good chance the merger and acquisition frenzy will continue in 2015.
Gilead Sciences has been a regular player on the M&A front since CEO John Martin took the reigns back in 1996, helping to create one of the best product portfolios and clinical pipelines in the business. And this trend continued recently with the purchase of privately held Phenex Pharmaceuticals for its liver disease drug development platform f or a reported $470 million .
With a premier HIV franchise at its core and a rapidly developing liver disease franchise in hand, Gilead is on track to post double-digit revenue growth for years to come. Such stellar growth, though, may be blood in the water for big pharmas struggling in the wake of the patent cliff, perhaps turning Gilead into a compelling takeover target.
With this in mind, let's consider if Gilead is indeed ripe for a buyout offer and who might consider making a tender offer.
Gilead's positives
Gilead's amazing growth stemming from its HCV franchise and key HIV drugs like Stribild make it relatively cheap on a valuation basis. Unlike most of its peers in the biotech industry, Gilead's shares actually trade at a highly compressed forward price-to-earnings ratio at 9.88, compared to a sector average that tops 24.
After striking a deal with CVS Caremark that secured preferred reimbursement status for its HCV drugs and essentially shut out competitor AbbVie 's Viekira Pak, Gilead's top-line growth should remain strong in the months ahead.
Source: Gilead Sciences
Although its HIV franchise has been overshadowed by the launch of Sovaldi and Harvoni, this business would still be a key asset for any potential buyer. Right now, the franchise sports a whopping five blockbusters! To top it off, newer drugs like Stribilid and Complera/Eviplera have seen sales absolutely skyrocket over the past year.
Gilead also offers a top-notch clinical program with ongoing studies for six potential blockbuster indications, such as nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, blood-based disorders, and others. The acquisition of Phenex Pharmaceuticals adds to this amazing pipeline, and makes Gilead a leader in the field of liver disease research.
The downsides for a potential buyer
The main downside is that Gilead is a monster company already, with a market cap that exceeds $147 billion, making it the fifth most valuable public healthcare company in the world. As such, a buyout would require a boatload of cash, and perhaps the express interest of Gilead's management in a merger.
Who might be a player for Gilead?
Because of Gilead's sheer size, there are only four legitimate companies to consider as possible suitors, namely Novartis AG , Pfizer , Johnson & Johnson , and Merck . Right off the bat, J&J looks like a no-go because it tends to stick to small biotechs (> $1 billion in market cap) acquisitionwise; an acquisition of this size would be really out of character. Novartis has also rarely pursued megadeals, and additionally doesn't have many overlapping therapeutic interests with Gilead.
That leaves Pfizer and Merck. The problem, though, is that Gilead isn't a good fit productwise for either of these big pharmas right now. Both Pfizer and Merck have been focusing more on vaccines and oncology products lately, meaning there would be few, if any, synergies created by a Gilead buyout.
At the end of the day, Gilead's behemoth market cap is simply too rich for the companies that would benefit from a buyout, presumably keeping this high flying biotech squarely on the "acquirer" side of the M&A ledger going forward.
1 great health care stock to buy for 2015 and beyond
Healthcare stocks soared in 2014, and 2015 is shaping up to be another great year for stocks. But if you want to make sure you're buying one of the best health care stocks, you need to know where to start. That's why The Motley Fool's chief investment officer just published a brand-new research report that reveals his top stock for the year ahead. To get the full story on this year's stock -- completely free -- simply click here .
The article Is Gilead Sciences Inc. Now a Takeover Target? originally appeared on Fool.com.
George Budwell owns shares of Gilead Sciences. The Motley Fool recommends Gilead Sciences and Johnson & Johnson. The Motley Fool owns shares of Gilead Sciences and Johnson & Johnson. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days . We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy .
Copyright © 1995 - 2015 The Motley Fool, LLC. All rights reserved. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy .
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | After striking a deal with CVS Caremark that secured preferred reimbursement status for its HCV drugs and essentially shut out competitor AbbVie 's Viekira Pak, Gilead's top-line growth should remain strong in the months ahead. Gilead Sciences has been a regular player on the M&A front since CEO John Martin took the reigns back in 1996, helping to create one of the best product portfolios and clinical pipelines in the business. At the end of the day, Gilead's behemoth market cap is simply too rich for the companies that would benefit from a buyout, presumably keeping this high flying biotech squarely on the "acquirer" side of the M&A ledger going forward. | After striking a deal with CVS Caremark that secured preferred reimbursement status for its HCV drugs and essentially shut out competitor AbbVie 's Viekira Pak, Gilead's top-line growth should remain strong in the months ahead. And this trend continued recently with the purchase of privately held Phenex Pharmaceuticals for its liver disease drug development platform f or a reported $470 million . Gilead's positives Gilead's amazing growth stemming from its HCV franchise and key HIV drugs like Stribild make it relatively cheap on a valuation basis. | After striking a deal with CVS Caremark that secured preferred reimbursement status for its HCV drugs and essentially shut out competitor AbbVie 's Viekira Pak, Gilead's top-line growth should remain strong in the months ahead. Gilead's positives Gilead's amazing growth stemming from its HCV franchise and key HIV drugs like Stribild make it relatively cheap on a valuation basis. The Motley Fool recommends Gilead Sciences and Johnson & Johnson. | After striking a deal with CVS Caremark that secured preferred reimbursement status for its HCV drugs and essentially shut out competitor AbbVie 's Viekira Pak, Gilead's top-line growth should remain strong in the months ahead. With a premier HIV franchise at its core and a rapidly developing liver disease franchise in hand, Gilead is on track to post double-digit revenue growth for years to come. That's why The Motley Fool's chief investment officer just published a brand-new research report that reveals his top stock for the year ahead. | e00a6097-50c2-4939-adac-706f559ad708 |
27160.0 | 2015-01-09 00:00:00 UTC | AbbVie 2015 Earnings Guidance Projects Strong Y/Y Growth - Analyst Blog | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/abbvie-2015-earnings-guidance-projects-strong-y-y-growth-analyst-blog-2015-01-09 | nan | nan | AbbVie ( ABBV ) announced that it expects earnings in the range of $4.25 to $4.45 per share for 2015. The midpoint of this guidance range reflects a 33.4% increase over the projected 2014 earnings range of $3.25 to $3.27 per share. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2015 is $4.41 per share, on the higher end of the guidance range.
AbbVie expects its blockbuster drug Humira to continue driving revenues going forward. Approval for additional indications could help the product to continue contributing significantly to the top line.
Newly approved hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection drug, Viekira Pak should also boost revenues. We note that Express Scripts ( ESRX ), a leading pharmacy benefit manager, has updated its National Preferred Formulary, providing access to Viekira Pak as the exclusive option for genotype 1 HCV patients from Jan 1, 2015 ( Express Scripts Picks AbbVie's Hepatitis C Drug ).
However, the company noted that revenues from some of its older products including testosterone booster AndroGel are expected to decline owing to generic competition.
AbbVie's pipeline holds significant potential. The company expects several regulatory decisions (including Duopa for advanced Parkinson's disease and Humira for hidradenitis suppurativa) and late-stage drug data (including phase III data on elagolix for endometriosis and elotuzumab for multiple myeloma) to be released in 2015.
We expect investor focus in the near term to remain on the detailed 2015 guidance (including product sales and other financial guidance), which the company plans to reveal on its fourth quarter 2014earnings conference call scheduled for Jan 30, 2015.
AbbVie is a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) stock. Some better-ranked stocks in the health care sector include AMAG Pharmaceuticals, Inc. ( AMAG ) and Incyte Corporation ( INCY ). Both stocks carry a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy).
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | We note that Express Scripts ( ESRX ), a leading pharmacy benefit manager, has updated its National Preferred Formulary, providing access to Viekira Pak as the exclusive option for genotype 1 HCV patients from Jan 1, 2015 ( Express Scripts Picks AbbVie's Hepatitis C Drug ). AbbVie ( ABBV ) announced that it expects earnings in the range of $4.25 to $4.45 per share for 2015. AbbVie expects its blockbuster drug Humira to continue driving revenues going forward. | We note that Express Scripts ( ESRX ), a leading pharmacy benefit manager, has updated its National Preferred Formulary, providing access to Viekira Pak as the exclusive option for genotype 1 HCV patients from Jan 1, 2015 ( Express Scripts Picks AbbVie's Hepatitis C Drug ). Click to get this free report EXPRESS SCRIPTS (ESRX): Free Stock Analysis Report AMAG PHARMA INC (AMAG): Free Stock Analysis Report INCYTE CORP (INCY): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. AbbVie ( ABBV ) announced that it expects earnings in the range of $4.25 to $4.45 per share for 2015. | We note that Express Scripts ( ESRX ), a leading pharmacy benefit manager, has updated its National Preferred Formulary, providing access to Viekira Pak as the exclusive option for genotype 1 HCV patients from Jan 1, 2015 ( Express Scripts Picks AbbVie's Hepatitis C Drug ). Click to get this free report EXPRESS SCRIPTS (ESRX): Free Stock Analysis Report AMAG PHARMA INC (AMAG): Free Stock Analysis Report INCYTE CORP (INCY): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. AbbVie ( ABBV ) announced that it expects earnings in the range of $4.25 to $4.45 per share for 2015. | AbbVie expects its blockbuster drug Humira to continue driving revenues going forward. AbbVie is a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) stock. AbbVie ( ABBV ) announced that it expects earnings in the range of $4.25 to $4.45 per share for 2015. | 7725a581-cd6b-483b-96f7-47501a2a9357 |
27161.0 | 2015-01-09 00:00:00 UTC | AbbVie (ABBV) Shares Cross 3% Yield Mark | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/abbvie-abbv-shares-cross-3-yield-mark-2015-01-09 | nan | nan | Looking at the universe of stocks we cover at Dividend Channel , in trading on Friday, shares of AbbVie Inc. (Symbol: ABBV) were yielding above the 3% mark based on its quarterly dividend (annualized to $1.96), with the stock changing hands as low as $65.11 on the day. Dividends are particularly important for investors to consider, because historically speaking dividends have provided a considerable share of the stock market's total return. To illustrate, suppose for example you purchased shares of the S&P 500 ETF ( SPY ) back on 12/31/1999 - you would have paid $146.88 per share. Fast forward to 12/31/2012 and each share was worth $142.41 on that date, a decrease of $4.67/share over all those years. But now consider that you collected a whopping $25.98 per share in dividends over the same period, for a positive total return of 23.36%. Even with dividends reinvested, that only amounts to an average annual total return of about 1.6%; so by comparison collecting a yield above 3% would appear considerably attractive if that yield is sustainable. AbbVie Inc. (Symbol: ABBV) is an S&P 500 company, giving it special status as one of the large-cap companies making up the S&P 500 Index.
In general, dividend amounts are not always predictable and tend to follow the ups and downs of profitability at each company. In the case of AbbVie Inc., looking at the history chart for ABBV below can help in judging whether the most recent dividend is likely to continue, and in turn whether it is a reasonable expectation to expect a 3% annual yield.
According to the ETF Finder at ETF Channel, ABBV makes up 9.49% of the First Trust US IPO Index Fund ETF (Symbol: FPX) which is trading lower by about 0.7% on the day Friday.
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | Looking at the universe of stocks we cover at Dividend Channel , in trading on Friday, shares of AbbVie Inc. (Symbol: ABBV) were yielding above the 3% mark based on its quarterly dividend (annualized to $1.96), with the stock changing hands as low as $65.11 on the day. AbbVie Inc. (Symbol: ABBV) is an S&P 500 company, giving it special status as one of the large-cap companies making up the S&P 500 Index. In the case of AbbVie Inc., looking at the history chart for ABBV below can help in judging whether the most recent dividend is likely to continue, and in turn whether it is a reasonable expectation to expect a 3% annual yield. | Looking at the universe of stocks we cover at Dividend Channel , in trading on Friday, shares of AbbVie Inc. (Symbol: ABBV) were yielding above the 3% mark based on its quarterly dividend (annualized to $1.96), with the stock changing hands as low as $65.11 on the day. AbbVie Inc. (Symbol: ABBV) is an S&P 500 company, giving it special status as one of the large-cap companies making up the S&P 500 Index. In the case of AbbVie Inc., looking at the history chart for ABBV below can help in judging whether the most recent dividend is likely to continue, and in turn whether it is a reasonable expectation to expect a 3% annual yield. | Looking at the universe of stocks we cover at Dividend Channel , in trading on Friday, shares of AbbVie Inc. (Symbol: ABBV) were yielding above the 3% mark based on its quarterly dividend (annualized to $1.96), with the stock changing hands as low as $65.11 on the day. AbbVie Inc. (Symbol: ABBV) is an S&P 500 company, giving it special status as one of the large-cap companies making up the S&P 500 Index. In the case of AbbVie Inc., looking at the history chart for ABBV below can help in judging whether the most recent dividend is likely to continue, and in turn whether it is a reasonable expectation to expect a 3% annual yield. | Looking at the universe of stocks we cover at Dividend Channel , in trading on Friday, shares of AbbVie Inc. (Symbol: ABBV) were yielding above the 3% mark based on its quarterly dividend (annualized to $1.96), with the stock changing hands as low as $65.11 on the day. According to the ETF Finder at ETF Channel, ABBV makes up 9.49% of the First Trust US IPO Index Fund ETF (Symbol: FPX) which is trading lower by about 0.7% on the day Friday. AbbVie Inc. (Symbol: ABBV) is an S&P 500 company, giving it special status as one of the large-cap companies making up the S&P 500 Index. | a399e3e9-076d-43e5-a369-a965c87a68a8 |
27162.0 | 2015-01-08 00:00:00 UTC | Midday Update: FOMC Minutes, Likely ECB Accommodation Helps Extend Market Rally to Second Day, | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/midday-update-fomc-minutes-likely-ecb-accommodation-helps-extend-market-rally-second-day | nan | nan | Stocks continued to rally for a second day as bullish economic fundamentals in the U.S. coupled with expectations the European Central Bank will add more liquidity later this month drove all three of the major indices above their respective 50-day moving averages.
Wall Street ignored a miss for the latest initial jobless claims, instead looking forward to tomorrow's non-farm payrolls report for December, expected to increase by more than 200,000 for the 11th consecutive month. For the latest survey week, 294,000 Americans filed new claims for unemployment benefits, slightly more than the 290,000 the financial markets were expecting. For the week ended December 27, new claims were unchanged at 298,000.
Equities are also building on yesterday's positive reaction to the December FOMC minutes in which the Fed maintained a "patient" course toward higher U.S. rates while at the same time praising the U.S.'s continued economic performance in the face of headwinds from Europe and possible fall-out from lower oil prices .
Europe's equity markets were also significantly higher as investors continue to place bets that recent EU-zone inflation data along with today's bleak German factory orders data will encourage ECB President Draghi to finally commence large scale EU sovereign debt purchases. Euro-zone bourses are more than 3% higher, surpassing a 2.34% rally in the UK's FTSE-100.
Crude oil was down $0.20 to $48.49 per barrel. Natural gas was up $0.06 to $2.92 per 1 million BTU. Gold was up $3.20 to $1,213.80 an ounce, while silver was down $0.09 to $16.46 an ounce. Copper was unchanged at $2.76 per pound.
Among energy ETFs, the United States Oil Fund was up 0.06% to $18.38 with the United States Natural Gas Fund was up 1.58% to $14.81. Amongst precious-metal funds, the Market Vectors Gold Miners ETF was up 1.57% to 20.44 while SPDR Gold Shares were up 0.15% to $116.60. The iShares Silver Trust was down 0.57% to $15.76.
Here's where the U.S. markets stand at mid-day:
NYSE Composite Index up 161.86 (+1.52%) to 10,788.99
Dow Jones Industrial Average up 279.55 (+1.59%) to 17,864.07
S&P 500 up 31.44 (+1.55%) to 2,057.34
Nasdaq Composite Index up 77.28 (+1.66%) to 4,727.75
GLOBAL SENTIMENT
Nikkei 225 Index up 1.67%
Hang Seng Index up 0.65%
Shanghai China Composite Index down 2.39%
FTSE 100 Index up 2.36%
CAC 40 up 3.59%
DAX up 3.36%
NYSE SECTOR INDICES
NYSE Energy Sector Index up 2.10%
NYSE Financial Sector Index up 1.02%
NYSE Healthcare Sector Index up 1.88%
UPSIDE MOVERS
(+) BIND (+63.11%) Reports progress for non-small cell lung cancer treatment, expects more milestone payments.
(+) BIOD (+22.83%) Reported positive results from Phase 2a trial of concentrated insulin BIOD-531.
(+) NBIX (+18.56%) Released results of successful Phase 3 joint trial of elagolix drug with AbbeVie ( ABBV ).
(+) ELOS (+23.29%) Expects Q4 revenue above consensus estimates.
(+) CJJD (+10.41%) Reaches online payment agreement with China's Alipay.
DOWNSIDE MOVERS
(-) KATE (-6.11%) BMO Capital downgraded to Market Perform due to "mounting headwinds."
(-) APOL (-13.31%) Reported below consensus Q10020sales and weak guidance.
(-) INFI (-8.33%) Failed to meet primary endpoint in arthritis study.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | (+) NBIX (+18.56%) Released results of successful Phase 3 joint trial of elagolix drug with AbbeVie ( ABBV ). Stocks continued to rally for a second day as bullish economic fundamentals in the U.S. coupled with expectations the European Central Bank will add more liquidity later this month drove all three of the major indices above their respective 50-day moving averages. Wall Street ignored a miss for the latest initial jobless claims, instead looking forward to tomorrow's non-farm payrolls report for December, expected to increase by more than 200,000 for the 11th consecutive month. | (+) NBIX (+18.56%) Released results of successful Phase 3 joint trial of elagolix drug with AbbeVie ( ABBV ). Among energy ETFs, the United States Oil Fund was up 0.06% to $18.38 with the United States Natural Gas Fund was up 1.58% to $14.81. NYSE Energy Sector Index up 2.10% NYSE Financial Sector Index up 1.02% NYSE Healthcare Sector Index up 1.88% | (+) NBIX (+18.56%) Released results of successful Phase 3 joint trial of elagolix drug with AbbeVie ( ABBV ). Equities are also building on yesterday's positive reaction to the December FOMC minutes in which the Fed maintained a "patient" course toward higher U.S. rates while at the same time praising the U.S.'s continued economic performance in the face of headwinds from Europe and possible fall-out from lower oil prices . Among energy ETFs, the United States Oil Fund was up 0.06% to $18.38 with the United States Natural Gas Fund was up 1.58% to $14.81. | (+) NBIX (+18.56%) Released results of successful Phase 3 joint trial of elagolix drug with AbbeVie ( ABBV ). For the week ended December 27, new claims were unchanged at 298,000. Gold was up $3.20 to $1,213.80 an ounce, while silver was down $0.09 to $16.46 an ounce. | 36e89f9b-1472-4875-b02d-48a20c7535b0 |
27163.0 | 2015-01-08 00:00:00 UTC | 1 Amazing Chart Shows Why Gilead Sciences, Inc.'s Stock Still Belongs in Your Portfolio | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/1-amazing-chart-shows-why-gilead-sciences-incs-stock-still-belongs-your-portfolio-2015-01 | nan | nan | Over the past year or so, Gilead Sciences has gone from Wall Street darling to a battleground stock. This sharp turn in investor sentiment has centered on the company's controversial and record-breaking hepatitis C franchise, composed of the multigenotype treatment Sovaldi, and the once-daily combo pill Harvoni, indicated for genotype-1 patients.
That's a freakishly amazing record of long-term performance -- one that turned Martin into a billionaire and made his shareholders a whole lot of money over the years.
The bottom line is that the fears over Gilead's hep C market share are overblown. Management has proved its acumen at finding stunning new growth opportunities, time and again.
As this trend is unlikely to change so long as Martin remains the CEO, I see no reason to sell my Gilead shares. In fact, I've been buying more on the recent dip.
1 great healthcare stock to buy for 2015 and beyond
Healthcare stocks soared in 2014, and 2015 is shaping up to be another great year for stocks. But if you want to make sure you're buying one of the best healthcare stocks, you need to know where to start. That's why The Motley Fool's chief investment officer just published a brand-new research report that reveals his top stock for the year ahead. To get the full story on this year's stock -- completely free -- simply click here .
The article 1 Amazing Chart Shows Why Gilead Sciences, Inc.'s Stock Still Belongs in Your Portfolio originally appeared on Fool.com.
George Budwell owns shares of AbbVie and Gilead Sciences. The Motley Fool recommends and owns shares of Express Scripts, Gilead Sciences, and Johnson & Johnson. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days . We Fools don't all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy .
Copyright © 1995 - 2015 The Motley Fool, LLC. All rights reserved. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy .
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | George Budwell owns shares of AbbVie and Gilead Sciences. This sharp turn in investor sentiment has centered on the company's controversial and record-breaking hepatitis C franchise, composed of the multigenotype treatment Sovaldi, and the once-daily combo pill Harvoni, indicated for genotype-1 patients. That's a freakishly amazing record of long-term performance -- one that turned Martin into a billionaire and made his shareholders a whole lot of money over the years. | The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. George Budwell owns shares of AbbVie and Gilead Sciences. The Motley Fool recommends and owns shares of Express Scripts, Gilead Sciences, and Johnson & Johnson. | George Budwell owns shares of AbbVie and Gilead Sciences. 1 great healthcare stock to buy for 2015 and beyond Healthcare stocks soared in 2014, and 2015 is shaping up to be another great year for stocks. That's why The Motley Fool's chief investment officer just published a brand-new research report that reveals his top stock for the year ahead. | George Budwell owns shares of AbbVie and Gilead Sciences. Over the past year or so, Gilead Sciences has gone from Wall Street darling to a battleground stock. But if you want to make sure you're buying one of the best healthcare stocks, you need to know where to start. | 29c81e61-232f-49fc-8afb-d4b99729ff68 |
27164.0 | 2015-01-08 00:00:00 UTC | Arena Pharmaceuticals Soars on Positive Study Results - Analyst Blog | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/arena-pharmaceuticals-soars-on-positive-study-results-analyst-blog-2015-01-08 | nan | nan | Shares of Arena Pharmaceuticals, Inc. ( ARNA ) skyrocketed 76.2% after the company announced encouraging top-line results from a phase Ib study (n=50) on APD334 being developed for the treatment of autoimmune diseases.
The randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study evaluated the safety, tolerability, pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics of multiple ascending doses of the candidate.
Results revealed that APD334 established a dose-dependent effect of lowering the lymphocyte count in the blood. The candidate showed a mean decrease in the lymphocyte count of up to 69% from baseline. The study further revealed that there were neither any significant safety findings related to heart rate, rhythm and pulmonary function nor were there any cases of discontinuation due to adverse events.
Arena Pharma now plans to move ahead with phase II development of APD334 for ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease indications after encouraging phase Ib results.
AbbVie Inc.'s ( ABBV ) key drug, Humira, is well known in the highly lucrative autoimmune disease market. The drug is approved for several autoimmune diseases like Crohn's disease, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis and spondylitis among others.
Our Take
Results from the phase Ib study on APD334 were encouraging. We are pleased with Arena Pharma's pipeline progress so far.
Currently most of the company's revenues come from its weight loss drug Belviq and the company is highly dependent on the drug for growth. Belviq sales have been lukewarm so far. As a results successful pipeline development is crucial for the company.
Arena Pharma presently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). Some better-ranked stocks in the health care sector include AMAG Pharmaceuticals, Inc. ( AMAG ) and Affymetrix Inc. ( AFFX ). Both are Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) stocks.
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | AbbVie Inc.'s ( ABBV ) key drug, Humira, is well known in the highly lucrative autoimmune disease market. Click to get this free report AFFYMETRIX INC (AFFX): Free Stock Analysis Report AMAG PHARMA INC (AMAG): Free Stock Analysis Report ARENA PHARMA (ARNA): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Shares of Arena Pharmaceuticals, Inc. ( ARNA ) skyrocketed 76.2% after the company announced encouraging top-line results from a phase Ib study (n=50) on APD334 being developed for the treatment of autoimmune diseases. | Click to get this free report AFFYMETRIX INC (AFFX): Free Stock Analysis Report AMAG PHARMA INC (AMAG): Free Stock Analysis Report ARENA PHARMA (ARNA): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. AbbVie Inc.'s ( ABBV ) key drug, Humira, is well known in the highly lucrative autoimmune disease market. Shares of Arena Pharmaceuticals, Inc. ( ARNA ) skyrocketed 76.2% after the company announced encouraging top-line results from a phase Ib study (n=50) on APD334 being developed for the treatment of autoimmune diseases. | Click to get this free report AFFYMETRIX INC (AFFX): Free Stock Analysis Report AMAG PHARMA INC (AMAG): Free Stock Analysis Report ARENA PHARMA (ARNA): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. AbbVie Inc.'s ( ABBV ) key drug, Humira, is well known in the highly lucrative autoimmune disease market. Shares of Arena Pharmaceuticals, Inc. ( ARNA ) skyrocketed 76.2% after the company announced encouraging top-line results from a phase Ib study (n=50) on APD334 being developed for the treatment of autoimmune diseases. | AbbVie Inc.'s ( ABBV ) key drug, Humira, is well known in the highly lucrative autoimmune disease market. Click to get this free report AFFYMETRIX INC (AFFX): Free Stock Analysis Report AMAG PHARMA INC (AMAG): Free Stock Analysis Report ARENA PHARMA (ARNA): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Arena Pharma now plans to move ahead with phase II development of APD334 for ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease indications after encouraging phase Ib results. | 02b57f1f-a3d7-44d2-9cac-5350417adeea |
27165.0 | 2015-01-08 00:00:00 UTC | Closing Update: Stocks Rally on Central Bank Bets, Stable Oil Markets | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/closing-update-stocks-rally-central-bank-bets-stable-oil-markets-2015-01-08 | nan | nan | Stocks rallied for a second straight day with equities back in favor after recent statements from Federal Reserve members tossed cold water on an imminent rate hike, and Europe gears up for more aggressive stimulus measures. Wall Street extended Wednesday's gains by nearly another 2%, fueled by interest-rate expectations, upbeat retail quarterly results, and modest stability in the oil markets.
Wednesday's strong reaction to the December FOMC minutes cushioned a miss on initial jobless claims for the week ended January 3rd with equities nearly 2% higher in pre-market trading . The uptrade started running out of steam midday, but the gains remained intact as investors positioned ahead of what it expected to be another upbeat report from the Labor Department on Friday.
Non-farm payrolls are expected to increase another 245,000 in December, driving the jobless rate to 5.7% from 5.8% in November. This would be the 11th straight month that the economy has added more than 200,000 jobs for the month. Private payrolls are expected to show a gain of 238,000 from +314,000 in November, while average hourly earnings is forecasted for a 0.2% increase.
Tomorrow's other data includes wholesale inventories, expected to increase 0.3% in November, following a 0.4% gain the month prior.
Here's where the markets stand at the close:
US MARKETS
Dow Jones Industrial Index was up 323 points (+1.8%) at 17,907
S&P 500 was up 36 points (+1.8%) at 2,062
Nasdaq Composite Index was up 85 points (+1.8%) at 4,736
GLOBAL SENTIMENT
FTSE 100 was up 2.34%
Nikkei 225 was up 1.67%
Hang Seng Index was up 0.65%
Shanghai China Composite Index was down 2.39%
UPSIDE MOVERS
(+) BIND Reports progress for non-small cell lung cancer treatment, expects more milestone payments
(+) BIOD Reported positive results from Phase 2a trial of concentrated insulin BIOD-531
(+) NBIX Released results of successful Phase 3 joint trial of elagolix drug with AbbeVie ( ABBV )
(+) ELOS Expects Q4 revenue above consensus estimates
(+) CJJD Reaches online payment agreement with China's Alipay
DOWNSIDE MOVERS
(-) KATE BMO Capital downgraded to Market Perform due to "mounting headwinds"
(-) APOL Reported below consensus Q10020sales and weak guidance
(-) INFI Failed to meet primary endpoint in arthritis study
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
Copyright (C) 2016 MTNewswires.com. All rights reserved. Unauthorized reproduction is strictly prohibited.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | (+) BIND Reports progress for non-small cell lung cancer treatment, expects more milestone payments (+) BIOD Reported positive results from Phase 2a trial of concentrated insulin BIOD-531 (+) NBIX Released results of successful Phase 3 joint trial of elagolix drug with AbbeVie ( ABBV ) (+) ELOS Expects Q4 revenue above consensus estimates (+) CJJD Reaches online payment agreement with China's Alipay Stocks rallied for a second straight day with equities back in favor after recent statements from Federal Reserve members tossed cold water on an imminent rate hike, and Europe gears up for more aggressive stimulus measures. Wednesday's strong reaction to the December FOMC minutes cushioned a miss on initial jobless claims for the week ended January 3rd with equities nearly 2% higher in pre-market trading . | (+) BIND Reports progress for non-small cell lung cancer treatment, expects more milestone payments (+) BIOD Reported positive results from Phase 2a trial of concentrated insulin BIOD-531 (+) NBIX Released results of successful Phase 3 joint trial of elagolix drug with AbbeVie ( ABBV ) (+) ELOS Expects Q4 revenue above consensus estimates (+) CJJD Reaches online payment agreement with China's Alipay (-) KATE BMO Capital downgraded to Market Perform due to "mounting headwinds" (-) APOL Reported below consensus Q10020sales and weak guidance (-) INFI Failed to meet primary endpoint in arthritis study The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | (+) BIND Reports progress for non-small cell lung cancer treatment, expects more milestone payments (+) BIOD Reported positive results from Phase 2a trial of concentrated insulin BIOD-531 (+) NBIX Released results of successful Phase 3 joint trial of elagolix drug with AbbeVie ( ABBV ) (+) ELOS Expects Q4 revenue above consensus estimates (+) CJJD Reaches online payment agreement with China's Alipay Stocks rallied for a second straight day with equities back in favor after recent statements from Federal Reserve members tossed cold water on an imminent rate hike, and Europe gears up for more aggressive stimulus measures. (-) KATE BMO Capital downgraded to Market Perform due to "mounting headwinds" (-) APOL Reported below consensus Q10020sales and weak guidance (-) INFI Failed to meet primary endpoint in arthritis study The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | (+) BIND Reports progress for non-small cell lung cancer treatment, expects more milestone payments (+) BIOD Reported positive results from Phase 2a trial of concentrated insulin BIOD-531 (+) NBIX Released results of successful Phase 3 joint trial of elagolix drug with AbbeVie ( ABBV ) (+) ELOS Expects Q4 revenue above consensus estimates (+) CJJD Reaches online payment agreement with China's Alipay Stocks rallied for a second straight day with equities back in favor after recent statements from Federal Reserve members tossed cold water on an imminent rate hike, and Europe gears up for more aggressive stimulus measures. Non-farm payrolls are expected to increase another 245,000 in December, driving the jobless rate to 5.7% from 5.8% in November. | 5c559058-2724-4847-932f-7b4d76b99dcf |
27166.0 | 2015-01-08 00:00:00 UTC | Why Neurocrine Biosciences, Inc. Shares Took Off Today | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/why-neurocrine-biosciences-inc-shares-took-today-2015-01-08 | nan | nan | Although we don't believe in timing the market or panicking over market movements, we do like to keep an eye on big changes -- just in case they're material to our investing thesis.
What: Shares of Neurocrine Biosciences are trading up 21% on Thursday after reporting positive results from the first of two Phase 3 trials of elagolix, which it is developing in cooperation with AbbVie .
So what: AbbVie and Neurocrine recently wrapped a 24-week trial of elagolix that enrolled 872 women across the United States and Canada. Elagolix is designed to treat endometriosis in premenopausal women and inhibits gonadatropin releasing hormone receptors in the pituitary gland to reduce non-menstrual pelvic pain and menstrual pain associated with endometriosis. The drug achieved its target goals for pain reduction under these conditions for both a 150-milligram daily dose and a 200-milligram twice-daily dose after both three and six months of trials.
Now what : Effective endometriosis treatments are certainly worthwhile pursuits for biotech and pharmaceutical companies, as the World Endometriosis Research Foundation estimates that 170 million women suffer from it worldwide. However, the potential upside for Neurocrine may be somewhat limited by the fact that elagolix will effectively compete with a wide range of existing pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs.
Still, it appears likely elagolix will steam onward toward FDA approval, which will result in royalty payments for Neurocrine on top of the estimated $450 million in developmental and regulatory milestone payouts left to be earned from its deal with AbbVie. AbbVie clearly expects beaucoup bucks from elagolix, which means Neurocrine is likely to earn significant royalty payments over the long run.
1 great healthcare stock to buy for 2015 and beyond
Healthcare stocks soared in 2014, and 2015 is shaping up to be another great year for stocks. But if you want to make sure you're buying one of the best health care stocks, you need to know where to start. That's why The Motley Fool's chief investment officer just published a brand-new research report that reveals his top stock for the year ahead. To get the full story on this year's stock -- completely free -- simply click here .
The article Why Neurocrine Biosciences, Inc. Shares Took Off Today originally appeared on Fool.com.
Alex Planes has no position in any stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days . We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy .
Copyright © 1995 - 2015 The Motley Fool, LLC. All rights reserved. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy .
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | Still, it appears likely elagolix will steam onward toward FDA approval, which will result in royalty payments for Neurocrine on top of the estimated $450 million in developmental and regulatory milestone payouts left to be earned from its deal with AbbVie. What: Shares of Neurocrine Biosciences are trading up 21% on Thursday after reporting positive results from the first of two Phase 3 trials of elagolix, which it is developing in cooperation with AbbVie . So what: AbbVie and Neurocrine recently wrapped a 24-week trial of elagolix that enrolled 872 women across the United States and Canada. | Still, it appears likely elagolix will steam onward toward FDA approval, which will result in royalty payments for Neurocrine on top of the estimated $450 million in developmental and regulatory milestone payouts left to be earned from its deal with AbbVie. The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. What: Shares of Neurocrine Biosciences are trading up 21% on Thursday after reporting positive results from the first of two Phase 3 trials of elagolix, which it is developing in cooperation with AbbVie . | What: Shares of Neurocrine Biosciences are trading up 21% on Thursday after reporting positive results from the first of two Phase 3 trials of elagolix, which it is developing in cooperation with AbbVie . So what: AbbVie and Neurocrine recently wrapped a 24-week trial of elagolix that enrolled 872 women across the United States and Canada. Still, it appears likely elagolix will steam onward toward FDA approval, which will result in royalty payments for Neurocrine on top of the estimated $450 million in developmental and regulatory milestone payouts left to be earned from its deal with AbbVie. | What: Shares of Neurocrine Biosciences are trading up 21% on Thursday after reporting positive results from the first of two Phase 3 trials of elagolix, which it is developing in cooperation with AbbVie . So what: AbbVie and Neurocrine recently wrapped a 24-week trial of elagolix that enrolled 872 women across the United States and Canada. Still, it appears likely elagolix will steam onward toward FDA approval, which will result in royalty payments for Neurocrine on top of the estimated $450 million in developmental and regulatory milestone payouts left to be earned from its deal with AbbVie. | 582c5d9f-b7e5-4b97-acc1-7f2e3ac086cb |
27167.0 | 2015-01-08 00:00:00 UTC | Novartis' Biosimilar of Neupogen Gets Favorable Opinion - Analyst Blog | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/novartis-biosimilar-of-neupogen-gets-favorable-opinion-analyst-blog-2015-01-08 | nan | nan | Novartis' ( NVS ) generic arm, Sandoz, announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) Oncologic Drugs Advisory Committee (ODAC) has recommended the approval of its biosimilar version of Amgen's ( AMGN ) Neupogen (filgrastim).
The recommendation for approval of the biosimilar of Neupogen is meant for use in all approved indications.
We note that Neupogen is approved for the prevention of severe neutropenia in breast cancer patients receiving neoadjuvant myelosuppressive chemotherapy.
Although the FDA is not bound to follow the committee's recommendation, it generally takes the same into account while evaluating a candidate. Hence, a potential approval might be on the cards.
The positive recommendation was provided on the basis of comprehensive nonclinical, clinical and post-marketing pharmacovigilance data, which confirmed that Sandoz' biosimilar version is highly similar to Neupogen.
We note that Sandoz currently markets its biosimilar filgrastim in more than 40 countries outside the U.S under the brand name Zarzio, generating nearly 7.5 million patient-exposure days of experience. It plans to use the same brand name in the U.S., upon approval.
Biosimilars have been the growth engine of Sandoz, generating double-digit sales in the third quarter driven by continued momentum of three in-market products - Omnitrope (human growth hormone), Binocrit (epoetin alfa) and Zarzio (filgrastim). It currently has six molecules in phase III clinical trials/registration.
Meanwhile, Novartis also announced today that it has signed collaboration and licensing agreements with two biotechnology companies. This includes an agreement with Intellia Therapeutics for the discovery and development of new medicines using CRISPR (lustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats) genome-editing technology and with Caribou Biosciences for the development of drug discovery tools.
We cautiously watch Novartis' efforts to realign its portfolio in order to focus on its core portfolio of pharmaceuticals, eye care and generics. Successful development and commercialization of its pipeline is important at this stage as the company faces generic competition for several of its key drugs such as Gleevec, Zometa and Diovan.
Novartis, a large-cap pharma, currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). Investors looking for better-ranked stocks in the health care sector may consider Allergan ( AGN ) and AbbVie ( ABBV ). Both carry a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy).
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | Investors looking for better-ranked stocks in the health care sector may consider Allergan ( AGN ) and AbbVie ( ABBV ). Click to get this free report AMGEN INC (AMGN): Free Stock Analysis Report NOVARTIS AG-ADR (NVS): Free Stock Analysis Report ALLERGAN INC (AGN): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. The positive recommendation was provided on the basis of comprehensive nonclinical, clinical and post-marketing pharmacovigilance data, which confirmed that Sandoz' biosimilar version is highly similar to Neupogen. | Click to get this free report AMGEN INC (AMGN): Free Stock Analysis Report NOVARTIS AG-ADR (NVS): Free Stock Analysis Report ALLERGAN INC (AGN): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Investors looking for better-ranked stocks in the health care sector may consider Allergan ( AGN ) and AbbVie ( ABBV ). Novartis' ( NVS ) generic arm, Sandoz, announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) Oncologic Drugs Advisory Committee (ODAC) has recommended the approval of its biosimilar version of Amgen's ( AMGN ) Neupogen (filgrastim). | Click to get this free report AMGEN INC (AMGN): Free Stock Analysis Report NOVARTIS AG-ADR (NVS): Free Stock Analysis Report ALLERGAN INC (AGN): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Investors looking for better-ranked stocks in the health care sector may consider Allergan ( AGN ) and AbbVie ( ABBV ). Novartis' ( NVS ) generic arm, Sandoz, announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) Oncologic Drugs Advisory Committee (ODAC) has recommended the approval of its biosimilar version of Amgen's ( AMGN ) Neupogen (filgrastim). | Investors looking for better-ranked stocks in the health care sector may consider Allergan ( AGN ) and AbbVie ( ABBV ). Click to get this free report AMGEN INC (AMGN): Free Stock Analysis Report NOVARTIS AG-ADR (NVS): Free Stock Analysis Report ALLERGAN INC (AGN): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Novartis' ( NVS ) generic arm, Sandoz, announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) Oncologic Drugs Advisory Committee (ODAC) has recommended the approval of its biosimilar version of Amgen's ( AMGN ) Neupogen (filgrastim). | 92706eda-b34a-4570-a3e9-d73c130ef200 |
27168.0 | 2015-01-08 00:00:00 UTC | Is AbbVie Inc. Ripe for a Buyout? | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/abbvie-inc-ripe-buyout-2015-01-08 | nan | nan | The pharmaceutical industry is undergoing an unprecedented level of consolidation right now, triggered by the loss of patent protection for numerous top-selling drugs in recent years, a desire to lower effective tax rates, and the approval of a host of new game-changing drugs. As these conditions still exist for the most part, this trend looks set to continue into 2015 and perhaps beyond.
One of the most interesting aspects about this flurry of M&A activity is that companies of all shapes and sizes are getting in on the act. Pfizer tried to pair up with AstraZeneca in a mind-boggling deal that would have exceeded $100 billion, for instance. And Actavis plc snapped up a host of branded drugmakers than spanned several orders of magnitude in terms of size (from small-cap Durata Therapeutics all the way to large-cap biopharma Allergen).
AbbVie was also looking to play the M&A game last year with its courtship of Irish specialty biopharma Shire plc . But the Illinois-based drugmaker got cold feet after the U.S. Treasury modified the rules governing so-called tax inversions.
Following this ill-fated merger, the rumor mill began to swirl that AbbVie might now be the hunted, instead of the hunter. With this in mind, let's consider if AbbVie is an attractive takeover target in 2015.
Source: AbbVie
What would a buyer gain?
AbbVie is the maker of the world's best-selling drug, Humira. At present, this injected antiinflammatory drug is approved for a total of eight indications by the Food and Drug Administration, and is close to completing clinical testing for another two (Hidradenitis Suppurativa and Uveitis).
AbbVie's other major drug is its hepatitis C therapy Viekira Pak, recently approved for use in genotype 1 patients in the U.S. Because of the pricing war with Gilead Sciences over its rival HCV drugs, Sovaldi and Harvoni, Viekira Pak's commercial potential isn't entirely clear-cut. At this point, we don't even know how much AbbVie is discounting the drug in its deal with pharmacy benefits manager Express Scripts . That said, Viekira Pak is expected to generate megablockbuster type numbers in 2014, making it a potentially key asset for any buyer.
Source: AbbVie
Aside from these two flagship drugs, AbbVie also sports three products generating double-digit sales growth in the third-quarter, namely Creon (for pancreatic enzyme therapy), Duodopa (for advanced Parkinson's disease), and Synagis (a seasonal respiratory vaccine developed by AstraZeneca).
On the clinical-side, AbbVie does have a notably deep pipeline. Per its third-quarter report, management reminded investors that the company is presently developing 12 late-stage clinical candidates, with a handful now under regulatory approval.
Perhaps the biggest value driver going forward, though, is AbbVie's experimental PARP-inhibitor veliparib, which is now in four late-stage trials for both breast and lung cancer.
What are the downsides of buying AbbVie?
Although AbbVie has been generating decent revenue growth lately (up 8% in the third quarter, year over year), the vast majority of this increase stems from a single drug, Humira. Specifically, Humira now accounts for 63% of the company's total net sales, up from 56% a year ago.
While some of this rise is due to Humira's strong organic growth, it also reflects the loss of AbbVie's lipid franchise to the patent cliff and falling sales for its drug Androgel amid safety concerns over testosterone replacement therapy.
And then there is the ticking time bomb that is Humria's patent expiration. AbbVie has been working diligently to explore ways to extend the drug's patent beyond 2016, but these attempts have largely failed for complex legal reasons.
So is AbbVie a compelling buyout target?
AbbVie's reported suitor is none other than the world's biggest drugmaker, Pfizer. This is the pivotal issue at hand because it's important to understand what Pfizer wants and needs in a buyout scenario.
Looking back at its overtures to AstraZeneca, Pfizer was said to be pursuing the deal to lower its effective tax rate of 26.8% and gain a pipeline of promising new oncology drugs.
Given that AbbVie is also based in the U.S., it's effective tax rate isn't much better at a reported 26.3% in the third-quarter. And while it does hold a couple of intriguing oncology candidates, they are no match for AstraZeneca's assets in the immuno-oncology arena.
In sum, AbbVie's downside risks (Humira's looming patent expiration, Androgel's plummeting sales, etc.) appear to outweigh the upside in a buyout scenario in general, and a Pfizer deal in particular looks unlikely given that it simply wouldn't be good fit.
1 great health care stock to buy for 2015 and beyond
Healthcare stocks soared in 2014, and 2015 is shaping up to be another great year for stocks. But if you want to make sure you're buying one of the best health care stocks, you need to know where to start. That's why The Motley Fool's chief investment officer just published a brand-new research report that reveals his top stock for the year ahead. To get the full story on this year's stock -- completely free -- simply click here .
The article Is AbbVie Inc. Ripe for a Buyout? originally appeared on Fool.com.
George Budwell owns shares of AbbVie and Gilead Sciences. The Motley Fool recommends Express Scripts and Gilead Sciences. The Motley Fool owns shares of Express Scripts and Gilead Sciences. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days . We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy .
Copyright © 1995 - 2015 The Motley Fool, LLC. All rights reserved. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy .
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | While some of this rise is due to Humira's strong organic growth, it also reflects the loss of AbbVie's lipid franchise to the patent cliff and falling sales for its drug Androgel amid safety concerns over testosterone replacement therapy. AbbVie was also looking to play the M&A game last year with its courtship of Irish specialty biopharma Shire plc . Following this ill-fated merger, the rumor mill began to swirl that AbbVie might now be the hunted, instead of the hunter. | AbbVie's other major drug is its hepatitis C therapy Viekira Pak, recently approved for use in genotype 1 patients in the U.S. Because of the pricing war with Gilead Sciences over its rival HCV drugs, Sovaldi and Harvoni, Viekira Pak's commercial potential isn't entirely clear-cut. AbbVie was also looking to play the M&A game last year with its courtship of Irish specialty biopharma Shire plc . Following this ill-fated merger, the rumor mill began to swirl that AbbVie might now be the hunted, instead of the hunter. | AbbVie's other major drug is its hepatitis C therapy Viekira Pak, recently approved for use in genotype 1 patients in the U.S. Because of the pricing war with Gilead Sciences over its rival HCV drugs, Sovaldi and Harvoni, Viekira Pak's commercial potential isn't entirely clear-cut. Source: AbbVie Aside from these two flagship drugs, AbbVie also sports three products generating double-digit sales growth in the third-quarter, namely Creon (for pancreatic enzyme therapy), Duodopa (for advanced Parkinson's disease), and Synagis (a seasonal respiratory vaccine developed by AstraZeneca). Although AbbVie has been generating decent revenue growth lately (up 8% in the third quarter, year over year), the vast majority of this increase stems from a single drug, Humira. | In sum, AbbVie's downside risks (Humira's looming patent expiration, Androgel's plummeting sales, etc.) AbbVie was also looking to play the M&A game last year with its courtship of Irish specialty biopharma Shire plc . Following this ill-fated merger, the rumor mill began to swirl that AbbVie might now be the hunted, instead of the hunter. | 04990cdb-f25a-4b05-9856-7989f1e39907 |
27169.0 | 2015-01-08 00:00:00 UTC | Why Medivation Inc. Stock Sank 14% in December | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/why-medivation-inc-stock-sank-14-december-2015-01-08 | nan | nan | What: Shares of Medivation , a biopharmaceutical company focused on developing novel cancer therapies, plunged 14% in December, according to data from S&P Capital IQ , after AbbVie forged a multi-year agreement with pharmacy-benefits manager Express Scripts for recently approved hepatitis C drug Viekira Pak.
So what: Understandably you're probably scratching your head wondering what in the heck an AbbVie approval for hepatitis C has to do with Medivation's and Astellas Pharma 's prostate cancer drug Xtandi. This agreement is groundbreaking because Gilead Sciences ' Harvoni and Sovaldi were notably pricier than Viekira Pak, and this agreement nets Express Scripts Viekira Pak at a discount, while dropping Harvoni and Sovaldi for most genotype 1 patients. In other words, it was the first high-profile case of a pharmacy benefits manager, or PBM, cutting a high-priced drug out of its approved drug list in favor of a cheaper, but arguably inferior, one.
Source: Astellas Pharma.
Still wondering what this has to do with Medivation? You see, Xtandi's clinical data has been impressive thus far, and it doesn't need to be co-administered with corticosteroids like its peer Zytiga from Johnson & Johnson , potentially making it more convenient. But, here's the catch: For this added convenience Xtandi costs patients and insurers about $1,600 more per month. Is Xtandi really worth this much in premium? There's a chance PBMs may not see it that way and exclude Xtandi in favor of Zytiga because of cost. Thus, the AbbVie deal was a groundbreaker in that it could tip the scales in favor of Zytiga in treating advanced prostate cancer due to its markedly lower monthly price point.
Now what: Medivation's swoon in December essentially comes down to whether or not Wall Street believes a price war is about to be incited among prostate cancer drug developers. To this end, and of course this is just my personal opinion, I don't believe that's going to happen. Cancer is arguably a far tougher disease to get a grip on than hepatitis C, and it's also a much quicker killer in many instances. This means developed cancer drugs are highly specialized and often costly -- it unfortunately just comes with the territory.
It's also hard to argue that Xtandi isn't a major leap forward in patient quality of care. In its PREVAIL study, which looked at Xtandi's use in the pre-chemo setting, treated patients when compared to the placebo group had a 29% reduced risk of death and a significantly reduced risk of radiographic progression or death of 81%. Furthermore, the length of time patients went before beginning chemotherapy was extended by 17.2 months over the control group . This is a drug that works well and is unlikely to be taken off any formulary. With its EPS projected to double between 2014 and 2017, I still believe there could be upside to Medivation's shares.
Medivation could be poised for a great year, but this is the one great health care stock you need to watch for 2015 and beyond!
Healthcare stocks soared in 2014, and 2015 is shaping up to be another great year for stocks. But if you want to make sure you're buying one of the best health care stocks, you need to know where to start. That's why The Motley Fool's chief investment officer just published a brand-new research report that reveals his top stock for the year ahead. To get the full story on this year's stock -- completely free -- simply click here .
The article Why Medivation Inc. Stock Sank 14% in December originally appeared on Fool.com.
Sean Williams has no material interest in any companies mentioned in this article. You can follow him on CAPS under the screen nameTMFUltraLong, track every pick he makes under the screen nameTrackUltraLong, and check him out on Twitter, where he goes by the handle@TMFUltraLong.The Motley Fool owns shares of and recommends Express Scripts, Gilead Sciences, and Johnson & Johnson. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days . We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy .
Copyright © 1995 - 2015 The Motley Fool, LLC. All rights reserved. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy .
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | What: Shares of Medivation , a biopharmaceutical company focused on developing novel cancer therapies, plunged 14% in December, according to data from S&P Capital IQ , after AbbVie forged a multi-year agreement with pharmacy-benefits manager Express Scripts for recently approved hepatitis C drug Viekira Pak. So what: Understandably you're probably scratching your head wondering what in the heck an AbbVie approval for hepatitis C has to do with Medivation's and Astellas Pharma 's prostate cancer drug Xtandi. Thus, the AbbVie deal was a groundbreaker in that it could tip the scales in favor of Zytiga in treating advanced prostate cancer due to its markedly lower monthly price point. | What: Shares of Medivation , a biopharmaceutical company focused on developing novel cancer therapies, plunged 14% in December, according to data from S&P Capital IQ , after AbbVie forged a multi-year agreement with pharmacy-benefits manager Express Scripts for recently approved hepatitis C drug Viekira Pak. So what: Understandably you're probably scratching your head wondering what in the heck an AbbVie approval for hepatitis C has to do with Medivation's and Astellas Pharma 's prostate cancer drug Xtandi. Thus, the AbbVie deal was a groundbreaker in that it could tip the scales in favor of Zytiga in treating advanced prostate cancer due to its markedly lower monthly price point. | What: Shares of Medivation , a biopharmaceutical company focused on developing novel cancer therapies, plunged 14% in December, according to data from S&P Capital IQ , after AbbVie forged a multi-year agreement with pharmacy-benefits manager Express Scripts for recently approved hepatitis C drug Viekira Pak. So what: Understandably you're probably scratching your head wondering what in the heck an AbbVie approval for hepatitis C has to do with Medivation's and Astellas Pharma 's prostate cancer drug Xtandi. Thus, the AbbVie deal was a groundbreaker in that it could tip the scales in favor of Zytiga in treating advanced prostate cancer due to its markedly lower monthly price point. | So what: Understandably you're probably scratching your head wondering what in the heck an AbbVie approval for hepatitis C has to do with Medivation's and Astellas Pharma 's prostate cancer drug Xtandi. What: Shares of Medivation , a biopharmaceutical company focused on developing novel cancer therapies, plunged 14% in December, according to data from S&P Capital IQ , after AbbVie forged a multi-year agreement with pharmacy-benefits manager Express Scripts for recently approved hepatitis C drug Viekira Pak. Thus, the AbbVie deal was a groundbreaker in that it could tip the scales in favor of Zytiga in treating advanced prostate cancer due to its markedly lower monthly price point. | f8b5c9c6-0602-43a1-a01c-ba8c6af55462 |
27170.0 | 2015-01-07 00:00:00 UTC | Why Shares of Arena Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Skyrocketed Today | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/why-shares-arena-pharmaceuticals-inc-skyrocketed-today-2015-01-07 | nan | nan | Although we don't believe in timing the market or panicking over market movements, we do like to keep an eye on big changes -- just in case they're material to our investing thesis.
What: Shares of Arena Pharmaceuticals have been gaining strength Wednesday morning, and currently hold a gain of more than 33% as of this writing. Wednesday's spike followed premarket newsof positive results from Arena's Phase 1b trial of autoimmune treatment APD334.
So what: APD334 is designed to lower blood lymphocyte counts by targeting the sphingosine 1-phosphate subtype receptor, and its early results are evidently promising. A double-blind placebo-controlled trial with 60 total participants (10 received placebos) showed a mean decrease of 69% from baseline lymphocyte counts, with recovery to baseline occurring in about a week after the final dose. According to Arena's Chief Medical Officer William R. Shanahan, this degree of reduction is in line with the efficacy of similar drugs in their Phase 2 and Phase 3 trials.
Now what : Arena now plans to push ahead into Phase 2 trials for APD334 for treatment of ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, which make up many of the 1.4 known million cases of inflammatory bowel disease in the United States. Autoimmune disorders are so widespread that AbbVie 's Humira -- which is used to treat Crohn's and ulcerative colitis as well as rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory diseases -- was the best-selling drug in the world by revenue for 2013. If Arena can capture even a small slice of that revenue pie with APD334, it could be a potential steal at today's prices, even after its huge pop.
1 great health care stock to buy for 2015 and beyond
Healthcare stocks soared in 2014, and 2015 is shaping up to be another great year for stocks. But if you want to make sure you're buying one of the best health care stocks, you need to know where to start. That's why The Motley Fool's chief investment officer just published a brand-new research report that reveals his top stock for the year ahead. To get the full story on this year's stock -- completely free -- simply click here .
The article Why Shares of Arena Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Skyrocketed Today originally appeared on Fool.com.
Alex Planes has no position in any stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days . We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy .
Copyright © 1995 - 2015 The Motley Fool, LLC. All rights reserved. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy .
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | Autoimmune disorders are so widespread that AbbVie 's Humira -- which is used to treat Crohn's and ulcerative colitis as well as rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory diseases -- was the best-selling drug in the world by revenue for 2013. So what: APD334 is designed to lower blood lymphocyte counts by targeting the sphingosine 1-phosphate subtype receptor, and its early results are evidently promising. That's why The Motley Fool's chief investment officer just published a brand-new research report that reveals his top stock for the year ahead. | Autoimmune disorders are so widespread that AbbVie 's Humira -- which is used to treat Crohn's and ulcerative colitis as well as rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory diseases -- was the best-selling drug in the world by revenue for 2013. Wednesday's spike followed premarket newsof positive results from Arena's Phase 1b trial of autoimmune treatment APD334. Now what : Arena now plans to push ahead into Phase 2 trials for APD334 for treatment of ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, which make up many of the 1.4 known million cases of inflammatory bowel disease in the United States. | Autoimmune disorders are so widespread that AbbVie 's Humira -- which is used to treat Crohn's and ulcerative colitis as well as rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory diseases -- was the best-selling drug in the world by revenue for 2013. Now what : Arena now plans to push ahead into Phase 2 trials for APD334 for treatment of ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, which make up many of the 1.4 known million cases of inflammatory bowel disease in the United States. 1 great health care stock to buy for 2015 and beyond Healthcare stocks soared in 2014, and 2015 is shaping up to be another great year for stocks. | Autoimmune disorders are so widespread that AbbVie 's Humira -- which is used to treat Crohn's and ulcerative colitis as well as rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory diseases -- was the best-selling drug in the world by revenue for 2013. Wednesday's spike followed premarket newsof positive results from Arena's Phase 1b trial of autoimmune treatment APD334. 1 great health care stock to buy for 2015 and beyond Healthcare stocks soared in 2014, and 2015 is shaping up to be another great year for stocks. | c3694fe6-5785-42b1-b6c7-69c3c9719be6 |
27171.0 | 2015-01-07 00:00:00 UTC | Gilead Sciences, Inc. Fires Back at AbbVie Inc. | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/gilead-sciences-inc-fires-back-abbvie-inc-2015-01-07 | nan | nan | Source: Gilead Sciences via Google Maps
Following the FDA approval of AbbVie 's hepatitis C cocktail Viekira Pak, and Express Scripts ' decision to make Viekira Pak its exclusive hepatitis C drug on its preferred formulary, investors endured a nausea-inspiring share price drop in Gilead Sciences .
However, Gilead Sciences shares are rebounding from their lows following news that the company has inked its own deal with CVS Health that makes Harvoni the go-to hepatitis C therapy for patients covered by plans relying on CVS Health's prescription benefit management business.
Moving chess pieces
The stakes are incredibly high for these two drugmakers. After Gilead Sciences launched its first-generation hepatitis C drug, Sovaldi, last December, the drug went on to generate more than $8.5 billion in sales through the first nine months of the year.
That success stemmed from a combination of a patient population that numbers nearly 3 million strong and Sovaldi's sky-high price tag of around $84,000 for a 12-week treatment course. Sovaldi's pricing shocked payers, including Express Scripts and state Medicaid departments, which fired back at Gilead Sciences by restricting Sovaldi's use to only the sickest of patients.
However, even when faced with the rationing of access to Sovaldi, Gilead Sciences remained undaunted in October, when it priced its second-generation hepatitis C drug, Harvoni, at $94,500 for a 12-week treatment course, a price that was about in line with Sovaldi's price plus the cost of ribavirin, a drug that was commonly being prescribed alongside Sovaldi, but wouldn't be prescribed alongside Harvoni.
Gilead Sciences' Harvoni pricing decision drew additional ire from Express Scripts, which had become all too willing to see a competitor like AbbVie emerge. As a result, in hindsight, it probably isn't too surprising that Express Scripts sat down with AbbVie following the FDA approval of Viekira Pak to offer exclusivity on its preferred drug formulary in exchange for an undisclosed price cut.
Source: AbbVie.
Impact on sales
AbbVie's Viekira Pak is an undeniably good drug with cure rates in the mid to high 90% range; however, it's arguably not as good of a drug as Harvoni.
Viekira Pak requires patients to take three pills in the morning and another pill in the evening, and patients are likely to continue to be prescribed ribavirin alongside Viekira Pak, which means even more pills.
Meanwhile, Harvoni, arguably offers equal to or better cure rates (without ribavirin) in the common hepatitis 1a genotype than Viekira and is dosed as just one pill taken daily. Additionally, 40% of hepatitis type 1a patients may qualify to take a shorter eight-week treatment course of Harvoni, while all Viekira Pak patients must take the cocktail for 12 weeks.
Absent a deal like the one AbbVie made with Express Scripts, Harvoni's advantage may have relegated Viekira Pak to second-line status, crimping Viekira Pak's peak sales opportunityin the process .
Instead, by entering into an agreement with Express Scripts, AbbVie clears the way for Viekira Pak to achieve billion-dollar blockbuster status.
About 25 million people are covered by Express Scripts' preferred formulary, and since roughly 1% of the population is diagnosed with hepatitis C, and 70% of hepatitis C patients have the genotype 1 variation of the disease affected by AbbVie's deal, Viekira Pak is likely to be the go-to therapy for as many as 175,000 patients this year.
Although we don't know how much of a price discount AbbVie is offering Express Scripts, it's likely those 175,000 patients will translate into billions in sales. Why? Because even if AbbVie is charging Express Scripts half its $83,319 wholesale price, it would still mean this is a $7.3 billion revenue opportunity for Viekira Pak.
And that $7.3 billion will come directly at Gilead Sciences' expense, which also makes it little wonder that Gilead Sciences was willing to sit down with CVS Health (which operates the second largest pharmacy benefit management business behind Express Scripts) to lock up its position as the defacto therapy for patients covered by CVS Health's formulary -- a move that sidesteps the risk of AbbVie delivering a second blow to Harvoni's market share.
Gilead Sciences' exclusivity agreement with CVS Health for Sovaldi and Harvoni is also an important win given that CVS Health reported in the middle of December that Harvoni's prescription volume was tracking at roughly 2.5 times the levels notched by Sovaldi at the same point following its launch last year, and that Sovaldi's prescription volume hadn't slipped dramatically following Harvoni's launch, which suggests the total number of patients being treated is moving higher, not lower.
Stage is set
If CVS Health is right and overall hepatitis C treatment demand climbed, the fourth quarter could prove to be a blockbuster for Gilead Sciences. But the real impact of these competing deals on Gilead Sciences and AbbVie won't be known until the first-quarter earnings release. That's because Viekira Pak's just won FDA approval on Dec. 19, and Gilead Sciences' agreement with CVS Health began today.
One great healthcare stock to buy for 2015 and beyond
Healthcare stocks soared in 2014, and 2015 is shaping up to be another great year for stocks. But if you want to make sure you're buying one of the best healthcare stocks, you need to know where to start. That's why The Motley Fool's chief investment officer just published a brand-new research report that reveals his top stock for the year ahead. To get the full story on this year's stock -- completely free -- simply click here .
The article Gilead Sciences, Inc. Fires Back at AbbVie Inc. originally appeared on Fool.com.
Todd Campbell owns shares of Gilead Sciences. Todd owns E.B. Capital Markets, LLC. E.B. Capital's clients may or may not have positions in the companies mentioned. Todd owns Gundalow Advisors, LLC. Gundalow's clients do not have positions in the companies mentioned. The Motley Fool recommends CVS Health, Express Scripts, and Gilead Sciences. The Motley Fool owns shares of Express Scripts and Gilead Sciences. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days . We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy .
Copyright © 1995 - 2015 The Motley Fool, LLC. All rights reserved. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy .
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | As a result, in hindsight, it probably isn't too surprising that Express Scripts sat down with AbbVie following the FDA approval of Viekira Pak to offer exclusivity on its preferred drug formulary in exchange for an undisclosed price cut. And that $7.3 billion will come directly at Gilead Sciences' expense, which also makes it little wonder that Gilead Sciences was willing to sit down with CVS Health (which operates the second largest pharmacy benefit management business behind Express Scripts) to lock up its position as the defacto therapy for patients covered by CVS Health's formulary -- a move that sidesteps the risk of AbbVie delivering a second blow to Harvoni's market share. Source: Gilead Sciences via Google Maps Following the FDA approval of AbbVie 's hepatitis C cocktail Viekira Pak, and Express Scripts ' decision to make Viekira Pak its exclusive hepatitis C drug on its preferred formulary, investors endured a nausea-inspiring share price drop in Gilead Sciences . | Source: Gilead Sciences via Google Maps Following the FDA approval of AbbVie 's hepatitis C cocktail Viekira Pak, and Express Scripts ' decision to make Viekira Pak its exclusive hepatitis C drug on its preferred formulary, investors endured a nausea-inspiring share price drop in Gilead Sciences . As a result, in hindsight, it probably isn't too surprising that Express Scripts sat down with AbbVie following the FDA approval of Viekira Pak to offer exclusivity on its preferred drug formulary in exchange for an undisclosed price cut. Gilead Sciences' Harvoni pricing decision drew additional ire from Express Scripts, which had become all too willing to see a competitor like AbbVie emerge. | Source: Gilead Sciences via Google Maps Following the FDA approval of AbbVie 's hepatitis C cocktail Viekira Pak, and Express Scripts ' decision to make Viekira Pak its exclusive hepatitis C drug on its preferred formulary, investors endured a nausea-inspiring share price drop in Gilead Sciences . And that $7.3 billion will come directly at Gilead Sciences' expense, which also makes it little wonder that Gilead Sciences was willing to sit down with CVS Health (which operates the second largest pharmacy benefit management business behind Express Scripts) to lock up its position as the defacto therapy for patients covered by CVS Health's formulary -- a move that sidesteps the risk of AbbVie delivering a second blow to Harvoni's market share. Gilead Sciences' Harvoni pricing decision drew additional ire from Express Scripts, which had become all too willing to see a competitor like AbbVie emerge. | Source: Gilead Sciences via Google Maps Following the FDA approval of AbbVie 's hepatitis C cocktail Viekira Pak, and Express Scripts ' decision to make Viekira Pak its exclusive hepatitis C drug on its preferred formulary, investors endured a nausea-inspiring share price drop in Gilead Sciences . Gilead Sciences' Harvoni pricing decision drew additional ire from Express Scripts, which had become all too willing to see a competitor like AbbVie emerge. As a result, in hindsight, it probably isn't too surprising that Express Scripts sat down with AbbVie following the FDA approval of Viekira Pak to offer exclusivity on its preferred drug formulary in exchange for an undisclosed price cut. | cd8cbb25-bab7-4c20-9d20-c3e7015a1ae8 |
27172.0 | 2015-01-07 00:00:00 UTC | XLV, AMGN, ABBV, BMY: ETF Outflow Alert | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/xlv-amgn-abbv-bmy-etf-outflow-alert-2015-01-07 | nan | nan | Looking today at week-over-week shares outstanding changes among the universe of ETFs covered at ETF Channel , one standout is the Health Care Select Sector SPDR Fund (Symbol: XLV) where we have detected an approximate $160.0 million dollar outflow -- that's a 1.3% decrease week over week (from 175,965,324 to 173,615,324). Among the largest underlying components of XLV, in trading today Amgen Inc (Symbol: AMGN) is up about 2.5%, AbbVie Inc. (Symbol: ABBV) is up about 2.1%, and Bristol-Myers Squibb Co. (Symbol: BMY) is higher by about 0.9%. For a complete list of holdings, visit the XLV Holdings page » The chart below shows the one year price performance of XLV, versus its 200 day moving average:
Looking at the chart above, XLV's low point in its 52 week range is $54.65 per share, with $71.43 as the 52 week high point - that compares with a last trade of $68.99. Comparing the most recent share price to the 200 day moving average can also be a useful technical analysis technique -- learn more about the 200 day moving average » .
Exchange traded funds (ETFs) trade just like stocks, but instead of ''shares'' investors are actually buying and selling ''units''. These ''units'' can be traded back and forth just like stocks, but can also be created or destroyed to accommodate investor demand. Each week we monitor the week-over-week change in shares outstanding data, to keep a lookout for those ETFs experiencing notable inflows (many new units created) or outflows (many old units destroyed). Creation of new units will mean the underlying holdings of the ETF need to be purchased, while destruction of units involves selling underlying holdings, so large flows can also impact the individual components held within ETFs.
Click here to find out which 9 other ETFs experienced notable outflows »
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | Among the largest underlying components of XLV, in trading today Amgen Inc (Symbol: AMGN) is up about 2.5%, AbbVie Inc. (Symbol: ABBV) is up about 2.1%, and Bristol-Myers Squibb Co. (Symbol: BMY) is higher by about 0.9%. Looking today at week-over-week shares outstanding changes among the universe of ETFs covered at ETF Channel , one standout is the Health Care Select Sector SPDR Fund (Symbol: XLV) where we have detected an approximate $160.0 million dollar outflow -- that's a 1.3% decrease week over week (from 175,965,324 to 173,615,324). These ''units'' can be traded back and forth just like stocks, but can also be created or destroyed to accommodate investor demand. | Among the largest underlying components of XLV, in trading today Amgen Inc (Symbol: AMGN) is up about 2.5%, AbbVie Inc. (Symbol: ABBV) is up about 2.1%, and Bristol-Myers Squibb Co. (Symbol: BMY) is higher by about 0.9%. For a complete list of holdings, visit the XLV Holdings page » The chart below shows the one year price performance of XLV, versus its 200 day moving average: Looking at the chart above, XLV's low point in its 52 week range is $54.65 per share, with $71.43 as the 52 week high point - that compares with a last trade of $68.99. Each week we monitor the week-over-week change in shares outstanding data, to keep a lookout for those ETFs experiencing notable inflows (many new units created) or outflows (many old units destroyed). | Among the largest underlying components of XLV, in trading today Amgen Inc (Symbol: AMGN) is up about 2.5%, AbbVie Inc. (Symbol: ABBV) is up about 2.1%, and Bristol-Myers Squibb Co. (Symbol: BMY) is higher by about 0.9%. Looking today at week-over-week shares outstanding changes among the universe of ETFs covered at ETF Channel , one standout is the Health Care Select Sector SPDR Fund (Symbol: XLV) where we have detected an approximate $160.0 million dollar outflow -- that's a 1.3% decrease week over week (from 175,965,324 to 173,615,324). For a complete list of holdings, visit the XLV Holdings page » The chart below shows the one year price performance of XLV, versus its 200 day moving average: Looking at the chart above, XLV's low point in its 52 week range is $54.65 per share, with $71.43 as the 52 week high point - that compares with a last trade of $68.99. | Among the largest underlying components of XLV, in trading today Amgen Inc (Symbol: AMGN) is up about 2.5%, AbbVie Inc. (Symbol: ABBV) is up about 2.1%, and Bristol-Myers Squibb Co. (Symbol: BMY) is higher by about 0.9%. For a complete list of holdings, visit the XLV Holdings page » The chart below shows the one year price performance of XLV, versus its 200 day moving average: Looking at the chart above, XLV's low point in its 52 week range is $54.65 per share, with $71.43 as the 52 week high point - that compares with a last trade of $68.99. Each week we monitor the week-over-week change in shares outstanding data, to keep a lookout for those ETFs experiencing notable inflows (many new units created) or outflows (many old units destroyed). | b8cb50af-7538-46ce-ac5b-5ca4b7d14625 |
27173.0 | 2015-01-07 00:00:00 UTC | Roche Collaborates with 23andMe for Parkinson's Disease - Analyst Blog | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/roche-collaborates-with-23andme-for-parkinsons-disease-analyst-blog-2015-01-07 | nan | nan | Roche ( RHHBY ) and personal genetics company 23andMe, Inc. announced an agreement to make breakthroughs in therapeutic research and treatment for Parkinson's disease.
Both the companies will collaborate to generate whole genome sequencing data for approximately 3,000 patients in 23andMe's disease community suffering from Parkinson's disease.
Roche will be able to identify potential therapeutics based on genome sequencing and survey data from the largest Parkinson's disease community of its kind through this multi-year collaboration.
On the other hand, 23andMe will have the opportunity to conduct additional research on the data following the conclusion of the collaboration. In addition, 23andMe will make the information available to Parkinson's researchers from around the world.
As per Parkinson's Disease Foundation, there are an estimated one million patients in the U.S. suffering from Parkinson's disease. Hence, there is a definite need for new treatment options in this field given the fact there is currently no cure or even treatments that slow the disease although there are medications that can improve symptoms in some patients.
We note that Roche is well-placed in the breast cancer market with drugs like Herceptin, Perjeta and Kadcyla, and continues to strengthen its already dominant position. We are also impressed by the company's efforts to grow its portfolio beyond oncology to immunology, ophthalmology and other diseases. Apart from providing therapeutic products and services for diverse medical needs, Roche focuses on innovative diagnostic solutions for the early detection and treatment of diseases thereby making its portfolio more comprehensive.
Roche currently carries a Zacks Rank #4 (Sell). Some better-ranked stocks among the large-cap pharmas include AbbVie ( ABBV ), Allergan ( AGN ) and Eli Lilly and Company ( LLY ). All three carry a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy).
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | Some better-ranked stocks among the large-cap pharmas include AbbVie ( ABBV ), Allergan ( AGN ) and Eli Lilly and Company ( LLY ). Click to get this free report ROCHE HLDG LTD (RHHBY): Free Stock Analysis Report LILLY ELI & CO (LLY): Free Stock Analysis Report ALLERGAN INC (AGN): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Roche ( RHHBY ) and personal genetics company 23andMe, Inc. announced an agreement to make breakthroughs in therapeutic research and treatment for Parkinson's disease. | Some better-ranked stocks among the large-cap pharmas include AbbVie ( ABBV ), Allergan ( AGN ) and Eli Lilly and Company ( LLY ). Click to get this free report ROCHE HLDG LTD (RHHBY): Free Stock Analysis Report LILLY ELI & CO (LLY): Free Stock Analysis Report ALLERGAN INC (AGN): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Both the companies will collaborate to generate whole genome sequencing data for approximately 3,000 patients in 23andMe's disease community suffering from Parkinson's disease. | Click to get this free report ROCHE HLDG LTD (RHHBY): Free Stock Analysis Report LILLY ELI & CO (LLY): Free Stock Analysis Report ALLERGAN INC (AGN): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Some better-ranked stocks among the large-cap pharmas include AbbVie ( ABBV ), Allergan ( AGN ) and Eli Lilly and Company ( LLY ). Roche ( RHHBY ) and personal genetics company 23andMe, Inc. announced an agreement to make breakthroughs in therapeutic research and treatment for Parkinson's disease. | Click to get this free report ROCHE HLDG LTD (RHHBY): Free Stock Analysis Report LILLY ELI & CO (LLY): Free Stock Analysis Report ALLERGAN INC (AGN): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Some better-ranked stocks among the large-cap pharmas include AbbVie ( ABBV ), Allergan ( AGN ) and Eli Lilly and Company ( LLY ). Roche ( RHHBY ) and personal genetics company 23andMe, Inc. announced an agreement to make breakthroughs in therapeutic research and treatment for Parkinson's disease. | f666759a-dc4b-4fb8-8eab-1af5974d6353 |
27174.0 | 2015-01-07 00:00:00 UTC | ETF Outlook: Guggenheim S&P Equal Weight Health Care ETF (RYH) | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/etf-outlook-guggenheim-sp-equal-weight-health-care-etf-ryh-2015-01-07 | nan | nan | Every week, Marc Chaikin applies his groundbreaking analysis to an ETF or a sector. Today, he looks at the Guggenheim S&P Equal Weight Health Care ETF (RYH).
As indicated below by the Chaikin Power Bar stock rankings of the 9 SPDR Select Sector ETFs, the SPDR Health Care ETF (XLV) continues to show the most bullish differential between bullish and bearish Chaikin Power Gauge stock ratings. However, there is an ETF with the same constituents which weights them equally, as opposed to the XLV which is capitalization-weighted. That ETF is the Guggenheim S&P Equal Weight Health Care ETF (RYH). The RYH has 20 stocks with bullish Chaikin Power Gauge stock ratings vs. only 4 with bearish ratings.
The RYH has less of a bias to the large cap Health Care stocks; and as small and mid cap companies have reversed their underperformance in the past 6 weeks, the RYH has been a better performer than the XLV. The RYH has the same bullish Power Gauge bias but puts more emphasis on the smaller cap names in the Index. This is important in the current environment as the larger Biotech stocks have been more volatile as they have been buffeted by concerns about pricing pressure from the large managed drug plan providers like Express Scripts (ESRX) and CVS Health (CVS).
When we look at all Health Care ETFs through the lens of the Power Gauge rating, ranked in strongest to weakest order, we see The RYH at the top of the list.
The current pullback in the broad market has seen many stocks in the RYH pull back to support levels, yet the RYH itself continues to outperform the market.
The market is digesting the effects of the plunging price of crude oil on the U.S. economy and has found support at the 2,000 level on the S&P 500 Index. With the Health Care Sector likely to continue to outperform the broad market and the Biotech stocks regrouping, the RYH is an excellent way to participate in a renewed market advance. Biotech stocks are the most volatile component of the RYH but have very exciting new drugs in the pipelines. As such, they will provide a tailwind for the RYH which should push this ETF to new highs.
Use any short-term dips to buy the RYH in anticipation of renewed strength in this strong sector in the weeks ahead.
The Guggenheim S&P Equal Weight Health Care ETF (RYH) has 20 Bullish-rated Chaikin Power Gauge stocks vs. 4 with Bearish ratings, as indicated by the Chaikin Power Bar for the RYH below. This indicates positive potential for the RYH over the next 3 – 6 months. When combined with strong relative strength to the market, this is a powerful one-two punch for investors.
The Chaikin Portfolio Health Check is an excellent tool to help zero in on the strongest stocks in any ETF; in the RYH there are 20 bullish-rated stocks.
By looking at the individual component stocks through the lens of the 20 factor, Chaikin Power Gauge stock rating model, you can easily find the stocks in the RYH ETF with the strongest price potential over the next 3-6 months. These are individual stocks to buy, as they are likely to outperform the RYH, as well as the overall market.
The Chaikin Power Grid in Portfolio Health Check (see below) maps stocks and industry groups from strong to weak so you can easily determine the best and worst stocks in any ETF. To find the strongest stocks in the RYH, we look to the upper right quadrant of the Power Grid (strong Power Gauge stocks in strong industry groups) where we find stocks with the best potential for price gains over the next 3-6 months. There we see stocks like Edwards Lifesciences (EW), C.R. Bard (BCR) and Boston Scientific (BSX) in the strong Medical Products Group. that has recently received a P/E takeover bid.
Stocks in the upper left quadrant, (weak Power Gauge stocks in strong Industry Groups), like Baxter International (BAX), Tenet Health (THC) and AbbVie (ABBV) can be swapped for strong stocks in those same industry groups like BSX and Celgene (CELG).
Over time, strong stocks in strong industry groups will outperform the market.
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | Stocks in the upper left quadrant, (weak Power Gauge stocks in strong Industry Groups), like Baxter International (BAX), Tenet Health (THC) and AbbVie (ABBV) can be swapped for strong stocks in those same industry groups like BSX and Celgene (CELG). As indicated below by the Chaikin Power Bar stock rankings of the 9 SPDR Select Sector ETFs, the SPDR Health Care ETF (XLV) continues to show the most bullish differential between bullish and bearish Chaikin Power Gauge stock ratings. When we look at all Health Care ETFs through the lens of the Power Gauge rating, ranked in strongest to weakest order, we see The RYH at the top of the list. | Stocks in the upper left quadrant, (weak Power Gauge stocks in strong Industry Groups), like Baxter International (BAX), Tenet Health (THC) and AbbVie (ABBV) can be swapped for strong stocks in those same industry groups like BSX and Celgene (CELG). As indicated below by the Chaikin Power Bar stock rankings of the 9 SPDR Select Sector ETFs, the SPDR Health Care ETF (XLV) continues to show the most bullish differential between bullish and bearish Chaikin Power Gauge stock ratings. The Guggenheim S&P Equal Weight Health Care ETF (RYH) has 20 Bullish-rated Chaikin Power Gauge stocks vs. 4 with Bearish ratings, as indicated by the Chaikin Power Bar for the RYH below. | Stocks in the upper left quadrant, (weak Power Gauge stocks in strong Industry Groups), like Baxter International (BAX), Tenet Health (THC) and AbbVie (ABBV) can be swapped for strong stocks in those same industry groups like BSX and Celgene (CELG). As indicated below by the Chaikin Power Bar stock rankings of the 9 SPDR Select Sector ETFs, the SPDR Health Care ETF (XLV) continues to show the most bullish differential between bullish and bearish Chaikin Power Gauge stock ratings. The Guggenheim S&P Equal Weight Health Care ETF (RYH) has 20 Bullish-rated Chaikin Power Gauge stocks vs. 4 with Bearish ratings, as indicated by the Chaikin Power Bar for the RYH below. | Stocks in the upper left quadrant, (weak Power Gauge stocks in strong Industry Groups), like Baxter International (BAX), Tenet Health (THC) and AbbVie (ABBV) can be swapped for strong stocks in those same industry groups like BSX and Celgene (CELG). As indicated below by the Chaikin Power Bar stock rankings of the 9 SPDR Select Sector ETFs, the SPDR Health Care ETF (XLV) continues to show the most bullish differential between bullish and bearish Chaikin Power Gauge stock ratings. By looking at the individual component stocks through the lens of the 20 factor, Chaikin Power Gauge stock rating model, you can easily find the stocks in the RYH ETF with the strongest price potential over the next 3-6 months. | e15c106a-3cfa-40a3-b74b-1b055322ab79 |
27175.0 | 2015-01-07 00:00:00 UTC | Pfizer Boosts Vaccine Pipeline with Redvax Acquisition - Analyst Blog | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/pfizer-boosts-vaccine-pipeline-with-redvax-acquisition-analyst-blog-2015-01-07 | nan | nan | The pharma sector has been pretty active on the acquisition front over the last few years with several companies looking to boost their pipelines and product offerings in the face of generic competition.
Earlier this week, Pfizer Inc. ( PFE ) announced that it has acquired a controlling interest in Redvax Gmbh, a spin-off from Swiss biopharma company Redbiotec AG. With this acquisition, Pfizer's vaccine pipeline will gain a preclinical human cytomegalovirus (CMV) vaccine candidate.
While financial details of the agreement were not disclosed, Pfizer said that together with the vaccine candidate it has also bagged intellectual property and a technology platform related to a second, undisclosed vaccine program.
With the addition of the CMV vaccine program, Pfizer will be one of the leaders in CMV research and development. CMV, a herpes virus, is estimated to infect about 50% - 90% of adults. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in the U.S. alone, every year about 5,000 children develop lasting health problems caused by CMV.
We are positive on Pfizer's efforts to boost its vaccines pipeline. The company's Global Vaccines segment accounted for 8.7% of total sales in the first nine months of 2014. Late last year, Pfizer acquired Baxter International's Inc. ( BAX ) portfolio of marketed vaccines. Pfizer also launched Trumenba, its meningococcal B vaccine last year.
We believe Pfizer will continue pursuing bolt-on acquisitions and deals to boost its portfolio and pipeline.
Pfizer is a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) stock. Some better ranked stocks in the health care sector include AbbVie Inc. ( ABBV ) and Allergan Inc. ( AGN ). Both are Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) stocks.
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | Some better ranked stocks in the health care sector include AbbVie Inc. ( ABBV ) and Allergan Inc. ( AGN ). Click to get this free report PFIZER INC (PFE): Free Stock Analysis Report ALLERGAN INC (AGN): Free Stock Analysis Report BAXTER INTL (BAX): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. The pharma sector has been pretty active on the acquisition front over the last few years with several companies looking to boost their pipelines and product offerings in the face of generic competition. | Some better ranked stocks in the health care sector include AbbVie Inc. ( ABBV ) and Allergan Inc. ( AGN ). Click to get this free report PFIZER INC (PFE): Free Stock Analysis Report ALLERGAN INC (AGN): Free Stock Analysis Report BAXTER INTL (BAX): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Zacks Investment Research The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | Click to get this free report PFIZER INC (PFE): Free Stock Analysis Report ALLERGAN INC (AGN): Free Stock Analysis Report BAXTER INTL (BAX): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Some better ranked stocks in the health care sector include AbbVie Inc. ( ABBV ) and Allergan Inc. ( AGN ). With this acquisition, Pfizer's vaccine pipeline will gain a preclinical human cytomegalovirus (CMV) vaccine candidate. | Some better ranked stocks in the health care sector include AbbVie Inc. ( ABBV ) and Allergan Inc. ( AGN ). Click to get this free report PFIZER INC (PFE): Free Stock Analysis Report ALLERGAN INC (AGN): Free Stock Analysis Report BAXTER INTL (BAX): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. With the addition of the CMV vaccine program, Pfizer will be one of the leaders in CMV research and development. | f3b60ed0-69b0-4b6c-8b6d-2dd6bf668564 |
27176.0 | 2015-01-07 00:00:00 UTC | The Biggest Surprise in the Battle Between AbbVie and Gilead Sciences | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/biggest-surprise-battle-between-abbvie-and-gilead-sciences-2015-01-07 | nan | nan | After the news splashed on Dec. 22 about the deal between AbbVie and Express Scripts, Gilead Sciences shares plunged more than 15% before settling down. That decline wiped out over $29 billion in market cap for Gilead. It has since recovered only partially.
What happened to AbbVie as a result of the terrific news? The stock barely moved.
Fast forward a few days to Jan. 5, when CVS Health announced its exclusive arrangement for Sovaldi and Harvoni. Gilead saw a nice bounce on a day when the overall market tanked. AbbVie's shares dropped a little over 1% -- less than the S&P 500 fell.
Elements of the surprise
There are several possible explanations why the impact on AbbVie's and Gilead's stocks have been disproportionate. One is shock factor. Gilead investors seemed to be breathing easy on reports that AbbVie's pricing of its hep-C regimen, Viekira Pak, were only nominally lower than the $84,000 that Gilead charges for a 12-week treatment of Sovaldi. However, AbbVie's exclusive deal with Express Scripts knocked the breath out of many of those investors.
Sovaldi. Source: Gilead Sciences
Why didn't AbbVie surge then? Remember that Humira remains the company's real cash cow. Strong Viekira Pak sales will be great for AbbVie, but Humira is still the king for now. Meanwhile, Gilead's hepatitis C franchise is much more important to the company's financials.
But that can't be all there is to the story. Express Scripts had made no secret of its desire to play AbbVie against Gilead. A deal between the two companies shouldn't have been too shocking. And after the Express Scripts announcement, Gilead forging a relationship with CVS Health made perfect sense. You didn't have to be a fortuneteller to see at least the potential for that development.
So why hasn't AbbVie's stock moved much on good or bad news while Gilead's stock took a beating on bad news and is now rebounding on good news? Here's my explanation: The market simply overreacted. Gilead Sciences didn't suddenly become $29 billion less valuable because of AbbVie's agreement with Express Scripts. The market went too far and got it wrong.
In the balance
Benjamin Graham, legendary investor and mentor of Warren Buffett, explains these irrational movements well with his analogy of Mr. Market. Graham wrote in The Intelligent Investor that Mr. Market typically acts rationally but sometimes becomes overly emotional and acts erratically. When Mr. Market behaves irrationally, Graham noted, he can present good buying opportunities for investors.
Graham also wrote that "in the short run, the market is a voting machine but in the long run, it is a weighing machine". As the scales take their deserved role of more prominence than the voting machine, I expect both AbbVie and Gilead Sciences to perform well. Thanks to Mr. Market's irrational behavior, though, Gilead looks like the better opportunity right now.
1 great health care stock to buy for 2015 and beyond
Healthcare stocks soared in 2014, and 2015 is shaping up to be another great year for stocks. But if you want to make sure you're buying one of the best health care stocks, you need to know where to start. That's why The Motley Fool's chief investment officer just published a brand-new research report that reveals his top stock for the year ahead. To get the full story on this year's stock -- completely free -- simply click here .
The article The Biggest Surprise in the Battle Between AbbVie and Gilead Sciences originally appeared on Fool.com.
Keith Speights owns shares of Express Scripts and Gilead Sciences. The Motley Fool recommends CVS Health, Express Scripts, and Gilead Sciences. The Motley Fool owns shares of Express Scripts and Gilead Sciences. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days . We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy .
Copyright © 1995 - 2015 The Motley Fool, LLC. All rights reserved. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy .
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | After the news splashed on Dec. 22 about the deal between AbbVie and Express Scripts, Gilead Sciences shares plunged more than 15% before settling down. What happened to AbbVie as a result of the terrific news? AbbVie's shares dropped a little over 1% -- less than the S&P 500 fell. | So why hasn't AbbVie's stock moved much on good or bad news while Gilead's stock took a beating on bad news and is now rebounding on good news? After the news splashed on Dec. 22 about the deal between AbbVie and Express Scripts, Gilead Sciences shares plunged more than 15% before settling down. What happened to AbbVie as a result of the terrific news? | After the news splashed on Dec. 22 about the deal between AbbVie and Express Scripts, Gilead Sciences shares plunged more than 15% before settling down. So why hasn't AbbVie's stock moved much on good or bad news while Gilead's stock took a beating on bad news and is now rebounding on good news? What happened to AbbVie as a result of the terrific news? | After the news splashed on Dec. 22 about the deal between AbbVie and Express Scripts, Gilead Sciences shares plunged more than 15% before settling down. What happened to AbbVie as a result of the terrific news? AbbVie's shares dropped a little over 1% -- less than the S&P 500 fell. | dfd8c88c-19bd-4b63-b26c-fcde1cd424f3 |
27177.0 | 2015-01-06 00:00:00 UTC | Does Pfizer Inc. Stock Offer a Market-Crushing Opportunity in 2015? | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/does-pfizer-inc-stock-offer-market-crushing-opportunity-2015-2015-01-06 | nan | nan | This year, though, the pharma giant may finally awaken from its long slumber to produce market-crushing returns. Here's why.
Source: Pfizer
Pfizer is shedding weight to let its top-line shine through
Pfizer CEO Ian Read has been slowly restructuring the company in a manner that should allow fast growing newer products to finally have a meaningful impact on the bottom line in 2015. I think Read's restructuring plan will ultimately unfold as a four step process, with two now completed.
The first step was the IPO of Pfizer's animal health business that gave rise to Zoetis in June 2013. That move cleared the way for the next step, namely reorganizing the company into three operational units: global innovative pharmaceutical segment (GIP); global vaccines, oncology, and consumer healthcare segment ( VOC ); and a global established pharmaceutical segment (GEP).
I believe one of the two forthcoming steps will involve the sale of Pfizer's GEP segment to a generic drugmaker, possibly to Teva Pharmaceutical Industries to negate the impact of double-digit revenue losses for a host of products.
And based on Pfizer's flirtation with AstraZeneca last year , the other step will probably be a major acquisition that would complement Pfizer's rapidly growing GIP and VOC segments.
And by complement, I mean that it would result in an influx of promising new clinical candidates -- especially in immuno-oncology -- and perhaps lower Pfizer's effective tax rate that presently exceeds 26%.
A merger with AstraZeneca would have fulfilled both of these operational goals nicely. But the revised tax codes instituted by the Treasury Dept. last year to stop tax inversions might force Pfizer to place a heavier emphasis on upgrading its oncology portfolio -- rather than lowering its effective tax rate. Time will tell how this plays out.
Pfizer is growing by leaps and bounds in certain areas
The company's GEP segment essentially led to the 2% drop in total revenue in the third quarter, showing why Pfizer needs to shed this problematic business soon.
The good news is that the VOC business is growing at breakneck pace, and this pattern should continue for the foreseeable future.
Digging into this particular segment a bit deeper, we learned that vaccine sales have been skyrocketing due to the Prevnar franchise. In the third quarter, for instance, Prevnar sales climbed by a whopping 26% because of government purchasing programs, as well as increased demand.
In 2015, this strong growth in vaccine sales should continue for two big reasons. First, Prevnar 13 recently gained additional approvals in the EU, and should be approved for use in older patients (65 years or older) in the U.S. by May 2015, helping to expand the vaccine's already large market share. Secondly, Pfizer completed its acquisition of Baxter 's vaccine portfolio for a reported $635 million at the end of 2014, giving the unit additional sources for top-line growth in 2015.
The company's oncology sales also ripped higher by 17% in the third quarter, fueled by strong sales for Xalkori, Inlyta, and Bosulif. But that may be nothing compared to what's to come if Pfizer can get its new breast cancer drug palbociclib approved this April.
Pfizer is seeking approval for palbociclib as a front-line treatment for estrogen-positive, HER2-negative breast cancer when used in combination with Novartis ' Femara. What's noteworthy is that peak sales for this combination have been estimated to be as high as $9 billion!
Should investors buy Pfizer right now?
I think Pfizer's long turnaround process is nearing a tipping point that could unlock the company's latent value, perhaps resulting in market-beating returns in the process. Before jumping into this stock, though, it might be wise to wait until an acquisition target has been named.
Over the last few months, several biopharmas like AbbVie , Actavis , and even Celgene have been floated as possible targets of Pfizer's affection. Each of these companies provides intriguing upsides, but they would also all result in fundamentally different businesses via a combined entity.
Another big question mark is the fate of the GEP segment. Right now, this business accounts for about half of total revenues, meaning that management may be reluctant to sell it for a price that a company like Teva would be willing to pay. By the same token, its value is dropping quite literally by the day, as more drugs come off of patent protection.
I, for one, want to know what I'm buying before doing so. And right now, I'm not entirely sure what Pfizer is going to become because of these lingering issues.
That said, I do see huge upside potential in this stock, if management can complete a value-adding acquisition and transition away from its core GEP business, making it a stock to watch this year.
1 great healthcare stock to buy for 2015 and beyond
Healthcare stocks soared in 2014, and 2015 is shaping up to be another great year for them. But if you want to make sure you're buying one of the best health carestocks, you need to know where to start. That's why The Motley Fool's chief investment officer just published a brand-new research report that reveals his top stock for the year ahead. To get the full story on this year's stock -- completely free -- simply click here .
The article Does Pfizer Inc. Stock Offer a Market-Crushing Opportunity in 2015? originally appeared on Fool.com.
George Budwell owns shares of AbbVie. The Motley Fool recommends Celgene and Teva Pharmaceutical Industries. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days . We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy .
Copyright © 1995 - 2015 The Motley Fool, LLC. All rights reserved. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy .
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | Over the last few months, several biopharmas like AbbVie , Actavis , and even Celgene have been floated as possible targets of Pfizer's affection. George Budwell owns shares of AbbVie. I believe one of the two forthcoming steps will involve the sale of Pfizer's GEP segment to a generic drugmaker, possibly to Teva Pharmaceutical Industries to negate the impact of double-digit revenue losses for a host of products. | Over the last few months, several biopharmas like AbbVie , Actavis , and even Celgene have been floated as possible targets of Pfizer's affection. George Budwell owns shares of AbbVie. That move cleared the way for the next step, namely reorganizing the company into three operational units: global innovative pharmaceutical segment (GIP); global vaccines, oncology, and consumer healthcare segment ( VOC ); and a global established pharmaceutical segment (GEP). | Over the last few months, several biopharmas like AbbVie , Actavis , and even Celgene have been floated as possible targets of Pfizer's affection. George Budwell owns shares of AbbVie. Source: Pfizer Pfizer is shedding weight to let its top-line shine through Pfizer CEO Ian Read has been slowly restructuring the company in a manner that should allow fast growing newer products to finally have a meaningful impact on the bottom line in 2015. | Over the last few months, several biopharmas like AbbVie , Actavis , and even Celgene have been floated as possible targets of Pfizer's affection. George Budwell owns shares of AbbVie. In 2015, this strong growth in vaccine sales should continue for two big reasons. | 0b3a3a34-6734-4ad0-acbb-7f893862bfd1 |
27178.0 | 2015-01-06 00:00:00 UTC | Pharmacyclics Reports Encouraging Data on Cancer Drug - Analyst Blog | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/pharmacyclics-reports-encouraging-data-on-cancer-drug-analyst-blog-2015-01-06 | nan | nan | Pharmacyclics, Inc. ( PCYC ) announced encouraging data on its oncology drug, Imbruvica. It was found that the use of Imbruvica in treatment-naive and previously treated patients suffering from chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) resulted in a significant response rate, with 92% of high-risk CLL patients with deletion 17p (del 17p) or tumor protein 53 achieving an objective response. These data were published in The Lancet Oncology.
The results were impressive considering that these high-risk patients generally do not respond well to standard therapies.
As per data from the American Cancer Society, approximately 16,000 CLL patients are diagnosed every year.
Imbruvica is currently approved for three indications including the treatment of patients with mantle cell lymphoma or CLL who have received at least one previous therapy and for CLL patients with a deletion of the short arm of chromosome 17.
The company is working on expanding the Imbruvica label and evaluating the drug for small lymphocytic lymphoma, Waldenstrom's macroglobulinemia and diffuse large B-cell lymphoma among others. The FDA is expected to render a final opinion on the marketing application for Imbruvica for patients with Waldenstrom's macroglobulinemia by Apr 17, 2015.
We note that Imbruvica is Pharmacyclics' sole marketed product. The company has an agreement with Janssen Biotech, a Johnson & Johnson ( JNJ ) company, for Imbruvica.
We are encouraged by Pharmacyclics' efforts to expand the drug's label further.
Pharmacyclics currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). Some better-ranked stocks in the health care sector include Allergan Inc. ( AGN ) and AbbVie Inc. ( ABBV ), both carrying a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy).
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | Some better-ranked stocks in the health care sector include Allergan Inc. ( AGN ) and AbbVie Inc. ( ABBV ), both carrying a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). Click to get this free report PHARMACYCLICS (PCYC): Free Stock Analysis Report ALLERGAN INC (AGN): Free Stock Analysis Report JOHNSON & JOHNS (JNJ): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. It was found that the use of Imbruvica in treatment-naive and previously treated patients suffering from chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) resulted in a significant response rate, with 92% of high-risk CLL patients with deletion 17p (del 17p) or tumor protein 53 achieving an objective response. | Some better-ranked stocks in the health care sector include Allergan Inc. ( AGN ) and AbbVie Inc. ( ABBV ), both carrying a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). Click to get this free report PHARMACYCLICS (PCYC): Free Stock Analysis Report ALLERGAN INC (AGN): Free Stock Analysis Report JOHNSON & JOHNS (JNJ): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Pharmacyclics, Inc. ( PCYC ) announced encouraging data on its oncology drug, Imbruvica. | Click to get this free report PHARMACYCLICS (PCYC): Free Stock Analysis Report ALLERGAN INC (AGN): Free Stock Analysis Report JOHNSON & JOHNS (JNJ): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Some better-ranked stocks in the health care sector include Allergan Inc. ( AGN ) and AbbVie Inc. ( ABBV ), both carrying a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). It was found that the use of Imbruvica in treatment-naive and previously treated patients suffering from chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) resulted in a significant response rate, with 92% of high-risk CLL patients with deletion 17p (del 17p) or tumor protein 53 achieving an objective response. | Some better-ranked stocks in the health care sector include Allergan Inc. ( AGN ) and AbbVie Inc. ( ABBV ), both carrying a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). Click to get this free report PHARMACYCLICS (PCYC): Free Stock Analysis Report ALLERGAN INC (AGN): Free Stock Analysis Report JOHNSON & JOHNS (JNJ): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Imbruvica is currently approved for three indications including the treatment of patients with mantle cell lymphoma or CLL who have received at least one previous therapy and for CLL patients with a deletion of the short arm of chromosome 17. | 2b8742a4-4164-408d-90f5-968fa0ddf450 |
27179.0 | 2015-01-06 00:00:00 UTC | Bristol-Myers Inks Deal for Fibrotic Disease Treatments - Analyst Blog | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/bristol-myers-inks-deal-for-fibrotic-disease-treatments-analyst-blog-2015-01-06 | nan | nan | Bristol-Myers Squibb Company ( BMY ) announced that it has entered into an agreement with the California Institute for Biomedical Research for the development of novel small molecule anti-fibrotic drugs. The deal gives Bristol-Myers an exclusive license to develop, manufacture and commercialize the institute's preclinical compounds resulting from the collaboration. The transaction is expected to close in the first quarter of 2015.
Bristol-Myers' collaboration with the California Institute for Biomedical Research will boost its fibrotic disease pipeline which includes BMS-986020, currently in phase II. BMS-986020 is a lysophosphatidic acid 1 receptor antagonist for the treatment of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF).
We note that Bristol-Myers has been looking to expand its fibrotic disease pipeline for quite some time now. In Nov 2014, the company and Denmark-based Galecto Biotech AB announced that both companies have entered into an agreement whereby Bristol-Myers will have an exclusive option to acquire Galecto Biotech AB for a potential $444 million. The acquisition of Galecto Biotech AB will allow Bristol-Myers to obtain worldwide rights to Galecto's lead candidate, TD139.
TD139, currently in phase I, is being evaluated for the treatment of IPF and other pulmonary fibrotic conditions (read more: Bristol-Myers Signs Option Deal to Acquire Galecto Biotech ).
We are impressed by the company's efforts to develop its pipeline as generic competition for several drugs including hepatitis B virus drug, Baraclude, continues to affect its revenues. Hence, the successful development of the pipeline holds the key to replace the lost sales to genericization. We expect investor focus to remain on pipeline related updates.
Bristol-Myers carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). Some better-ranked stocks in the health care sector include Affymetrix Inc. ( AFFX ), AMAG Pharmaceuticals, Inc. ( AMAG ) and AbbVie Inc. ( ABBV ). Both Affymetrix and AMAG carry a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), while AbbVie is a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) stock.
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | Some better-ranked stocks in the health care sector include Affymetrix Inc. ( AFFX ), AMAG Pharmaceuticals, Inc. ( AMAG ) and AbbVie Inc. ( ABBV ). Both Affymetrix and AMAG carry a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), while AbbVie is a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) stock. Click to get this free report BRISTOL-MYERS (BMY): Free Stock Analysis Report AFFYMETRIX INC (AFFX): Free Stock Analysis Report AMAG PHARMA INC (AMAG): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. | Both Affymetrix and AMAG carry a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), while AbbVie is a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) stock. Click to get this free report BRISTOL-MYERS (BMY): Free Stock Analysis Report AFFYMETRIX INC (AFFX): Free Stock Analysis Report AMAG PHARMA INC (AMAG): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Some better-ranked stocks in the health care sector include Affymetrix Inc. ( AFFX ), AMAG Pharmaceuticals, Inc. ( AMAG ) and AbbVie Inc. ( ABBV ). | Click to get this free report BRISTOL-MYERS (BMY): Free Stock Analysis Report AFFYMETRIX INC (AFFX): Free Stock Analysis Report AMAG PHARMA INC (AMAG): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Some better-ranked stocks in the health care sector include Affymetrix Inc. ( AFFX ), AMAG Pharmaceuticals, Inc. ( AMAG ) and AbbVie Inc. ( ABBV ). Both Affymetrix and AMAG carry a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), while AbbVie is a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) stock. | Both Affymetrix and AMAG carry a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), while AbbVie is a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) stock. Some better-ranked stocks in the health care sector include Affymetrix Inc. ( AFFX ), AMAG Pharmaceuticals, Inc. ( AMAG ) and AbbVie Inc. ( ABBV ). Click to get this free report BRISTOL-MYERS (BMY): Free Stock Analysis Report AFFYMETRIX INC (AFFX): Free Stock Analysis Report AMAG PHARMA INC (AMAG): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. | 0b5242b9-1fd4-45b5-b819-a2ae2dd2859c |
27180.0 | 2015-01-05 00:00:00 UTC | Why Gilead Sciences, Inc. Stock Plunged as Much as 14% in December | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/why-gilead-sciences-inc-stock-plunged-much-14-december-2015-01-05 | nan | nan | What: Shares of biotech giant Gilead Sciences went for a wild ride in December, losing as much as 14% of their value (based on where it began the month) in just a matter of two days, based on data from S&P Capital IQ , after its rival AbbVie made a long-term agreement with Express Scripts .
So what: Gilead Sciences' claim to fame in 2014 was the approval of Sovaldi and Harvoni (a cocktail drug comprised of Sovaldi and ledipasvir) to treat hepatitis C. These drugs are a major step forward in terms of patient quality of care in that Harvoni can be administered to HCV genotype 1 patients without the need for interferon or a ribavirin, and Sovaldi can be administered without interferon. Both interferon and ribavirin have been known to cause unpleasant side effects in patients, so their absence is welcome.
In addition to improved quality of care, Harvoni and Sovaldi elevated the sustained virologic response in most studies to 90% or better. In other words, it was a practical cure to HCV. But, that cure comes with a price of $1,000 per Sovaldi pill and $1,125 per Harvoni pill, or $84,000 and $94,500 per standard 12-week treatment.
Source: Express Scripts.
However, in mid December, AbbVie had its combo drug, Viekira Pak, approved by the Food and Drug Administration. The most interesting news following this approval was the multi-year agreement made just days later between AbbVie and Express Scripts that announced Express Scripts will exclusively use Viekira Pak as the HCV-1 preferred treatment option. In exchange, Express Scripts gets AbbVie's drug at a "significant discount." In short, this is the first high-profile incidence we've witnessed on a high-priced drug being kicked off a pharmacy-benefit manager's list in favor of a cheaper drug.
Now what: As you can tell by Gilead investors' reaction in December, its shareholders are clearly worried about AbbVie and other potential competitors eating into Gilead's revenue stream. However, I'm not as concerned.
Source: Gilead Sciences.
I actually suspect that AbbVie and Express Scripts' pact could backfire with patients potentially perceiving the deal as excluding them from a superior drug. For one thing, Viekira Pak can be used with or without ribavirin. Ribavirin has been known to causes rashes and other unpleasant side effects in HCV patients, whereas Harvoni and Sovaldi have very minimal side effects. People normally aren't a fan of having their choice taken away from them when it comes to corporations saving a buck, so this may not wind up going over too well.
Also, we have to take into consideration that the HCV market is enormous. The World Health Organization estimates that there are 180 million people around the globe with HCV, meaning a market for multiple drug developers does exist. Sovaldi, for example, was only given to 117,000 people through the first nine months of 2014, so there will be ample opportunity for a handful of drug developers to prosper.
At less than 10 times forward earnings, I personally consider Gilead to be an exceptional bargain here.
Gilead could be poised to rebound, but this is the one great health care stock you need to be eyeing for 2015 and beyond!
Healthcare stocks soared in 2014, and 2015 is shaping up to be another great year for stocks. But if you want to make sure you're buying one of the best health care stocks, you need to know where to start. That's why The Motley Fool's chief investment officer just published a brand-new research report that reveals his top stock for the year ahead. To get the full story on this year's stock -- completely free -- simply click here .
The article Why Gilead Sciences, Inc. Stock Plunged as Much as 14% in December originally appeared on Fool.com.
Sean Williams has no material interest in any companies mentioned in this article. You can follow him on CAPS under the screen nameTMFUltraLong, track every pick he makes under the screen nameTrackUltraLong, and check him out on Twitter, where he goes by the handle@TMFUltraLong.The Motley Fool owns shares of, and recommends Express Scripts and Gilead Sciences. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days . We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy .
Copyright © 1995 - 2015 The Motley Fool, LLC. All rights reserved. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy .
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | I actually suspect that AbbVie and Express Scripts' pact could backfire with patients potentially perceiving the deal as excluding them from a superior drug. What: Shares of biotech giant Gilead Sciences went for a wild ride in December, losing as much as 14% of their value (based on where it began the month) in just a matter of two days, based on data from S&P Capital IQ , after its rival AbbVie made a long-term agreement with Express Scripts . However, in mid December, AbbVie had its combo drug, Viekira Pak, approved by the Food and Drug Administration. | The most interesting news following this approval was the multi-year agreement made just days later between AbbVie and Express Scripts that announced Express Scripts will exclusively use Viekira Pak as the HCV-1 preferred treatment option. What: Shares of biotech giant Gilead Sciences went for a wild ride in December, losing as much as 14% of their value (based on where it began the month) in just a matter of two days, based on data from S&P Capital IQ , after its rival AbbVie made a long-term agreement with Express Scripts . However, in mid December, AbbVie had its combo drug, Viekira Pak, approved by the Food and Drug Administration. | The most interesting news following this approval was the multi-year agreement made just days later between AbbVie and Express Scripts that announced Express Scripts will exclusively use Viekira Pak as the HCV-1 preferred treatment option. What: Shares of biotech giant Gilead Sciences went for a wild ride in December, losing as much as 14% of their value (based on where it began the month) in just a matter of two days, based on data from S&P Capital IQ , after its rival AbbVie made a long-term agreement with Express Scripts . However, in mid December, AbbVie had its combo drug, Viekira Pak, approved by the Food and Drug Administration. | However, in mid December, AbbVie had its combo drug, Viekira Pak, approved by the Food and Drug Administration. What: Shares of biotech giant Gilead Sciences went for a wild ride in December, losing as much as 14% of their value (based on where it began the month) in just a matter of two days, based on data from S&P Capital IQ , after its rival AbbVie made a long-term agreement with Express Scripts . The most interesting news following this approval was the multi-year agreement made just days later between AbbVie and Express Scripts that announced Express Scripts will exclusively use Viekira Pak as the HCV-1 preferred treatment option. | 436ddb65-834c-4140-84a9-c949d226f007 |
27181.0 | 2015-01-03 00:00:00 UTC | 3 Biotech Stocks With a Higher Profit Margin Than Gilead Sciences, Inc. | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/3-biotech-stocks-higher-profit-margin-gilead-sciences-inc-2015-01-03 | nan | nan | Source: PDL BioPharma.
However, all is not what it appears . Even though PDL has minimal costs, it doesn't necessarily have a long-term business model in place. The problem is that patented drugs only have a protected shelf life of a few years to perhaps a little over a decade, meaning PDL has to regularly replace its royalty revenue stream or it risks the end of its existing business model. If PDL is unsuccessful in raising adequate funds to execute the purchase of new royalty streams, the business will simply cease to exist. In other words, while PDL's profit margin is higher, Gilead's diversified business still looks like a safer bet.
2. Enanta Pharmaceuticals
Enanta Pharmaceuticals is far from a household name in the biotech sector, despite having collaborated with AbbVie to help develop one of the approved components of HCV combo drug Viekira Pak. Because of its projected royalties from the sale of Viekira Pak, the thought is that Enanta's sales should see royalty revenue grow substantially in the coming years.
Source: CDCFoundation.org.
In the meantime, Enanta is on pace to benefit from milestone payments in a big way. After receiving two milestone payments of $20 million just for the regulatory submission of Viekira Pak in the EU and U.S., Enanta will recognize $75 million in the upcoming quarter tied to the approval of Viekira Pak in the U.S., and will likely receive a similar milestone payment if the combo drug is approved in Europe. Milestone payments have the effect of dramatically boosting profit margins since there are often few expenses behind those payments.
The question is whether or not Enanta's profit margin can sustainably remain higher than Gilead Sciences'. I believe that even after we get past these juicy milestone payments, Enanta will remain at a profit margin in excess of 50%. Unless management chooses to dramatically boost its research and development spending, Enanta could coast for a few years on its extremely high profit margins.
3. Adamas Pharmaceuticals
Lastly, we have small-cap biotech stock Adamas Pharmaceuticals which pretty much was an unknown biotech stock until last week when the Food and Drug Administration approved Namzaric, an extended release medication that combines Namenda XR and Aricept into a single pill.
Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Developed in collaboration with Actavis , Namzaric will be marketed as a new treatment for moderate-to-severe dementia associated with Alzheimer's disease. Actavis will hold all commercial rights to the drug within the United States, while Adamas maintains the exclusive rights outside the U.S. (assuming the pill gains approval in non-U.S. markets).
For Adamas, a $25 million milestone development and expense reimbursement in Q2 has been the impetus that's really propelled its profit margin higher to a current trailing 12-month level of 47.9%. However, losses are expected to continue until Namzaric is approved overseas and the company can officially launch the drug. It's possible that sales of Namzaric could eventually propel Adamas' profit margin to levels that are sustainably higher than Gilead Sciences, but the reality is this scenario is probably five or more years out from occurring. Relative to Adamas, Gilead remains the profit margin king of biotech.
Ultimately, Gilead's high profit margins still look the most sustainable of this group, and of these three, Enanta Pharmaceuticals is the only one that could give Gilead a literal run for its money.
If you think Gilead is an impressive company, then you're going to love this one great healthcare stock for 2015 and beyond
Healthcare stocks soared in 2014, and 2015 is shaping up to be another great year for stocks. But if you want to make sure you're buying one of the best healthcare stocks, you need to know where to start. That's why The Motley Fool's chief investment officer just published a brand-new research report that reveals his top stock for the year ahead. To get the full story on this year's stock -- completely free -- simply click here .
The article 3 Biotech Stocks With a Higher Profit Margin Than Gilead Sciences, Inc. originally appeared on Fool.com.
Sean Williams has no material interest in any companies mentioned in this article. You can follow him on CAPS under the screen nameTMFUltraLong, track every pick he makes under the screen nameTrackUltraLong, and check him out on Twitter, where he goes by the handle@TMFUltraLong.The Motley Fool owns shares of and recommends Express Scripts and Gilead Sciences. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days . We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy .
Copyright © 1995 - 2015 The Motley Fool, LLC. All rights reserved. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy .
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | Enanta Pharmaceuticals Enanta Pharmaceuticals is far from a household name in the biotech sector, despite having collaborated with AbbVie to help develop one of the approved components of HCV combo drug Viekira Pak. The problem is that patented drugs only have a protected shelf life of a few years to perhaps a little over a decade, meaning PDL has to regularly replace its royalty revenue stream or it risks the end of its existing business model. For Adamas, a $25 million milestone development and expense reimbursement in Q2 has been the impetus that's really propelled its profit margin higher to a current trailing 12-month level of 47.9%. | Enanta Pharmaceuticals Enanta Pharmaceuticals is far from a household name in the biotech sector, despite having collaborated with AbbVie to help develop one of the approved components of HCV combo drug Viekira Pak. The question is whether or not Enanta's profit margin can sustainably remain higher than Gilead Sciences'. It's possible that sales of Namzaric could eventually propel Adamas' profit margin to levels that are sustainably higher than Gilead Sciences, but the reality is this scenario is probably five or more years out from occurring. | Enanta Pharmaceuticals Enanta Pharmaceuticals is far from a household name in the biotech sector, despite having collaborated with AbbVie to help develop one of the approved components of HCV combo drug Viekira Pak. After receiving two milestone payments of $20 million just for the regulatory submission of Viekira Pak in the EU and U.S., Enanta will recognize $75 million in the upcoming quarter tied to the approval of Viekira Pak in the U.S., and will likely receive a similar milestone payment if the combo drug is approved in Europe. Adamas Pharmaceuticals Lastly, we have small-cap biotech stock Adamas Pharmaceuticals which pretty much was an unknown biotech stock until last week when the Food and Drug Administration approved Namzaric, an extended release medication that combines Namenda XR and Aricept into a single pill. | Enanta Pharmaceuticals Enanta Pharmaceuticals is far from a household name in the biotech sector, despite having collaborated with AbbVie to help develop one of the approved components of HCV combo drug Viekira Pak. In other words, while PDL's profit margin is higher, Gilead's diversified business still looks like a safer bet. If you think Gilead is an impressive company, then you're going to love this one great healthcare stock for 2015 and beyond Healthcare stocks soared in 2014, and 2015 is shaping up to be another great year for stocks. | 0de21c06-ea06-4a51-abc3-9f4466d031f4 |
27182.0 | 2015-01-02 00:00:00 UTC | Novartis (NVS) Closes Sale of Animal Health Division to Eli Lilly - Analyst Blog | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/novartis-nvs-closes-sale-of-animal-health-division-to-eli-lilly-analyst-blog-2015-01-02 | nan | nan | Novartis ( NVS ) announced today that it has completed the divestment of its animal health division to Eli Lilly and Company ( LLY ) for approximately $5.4 billion.
The transaction was initially announced in Apr 2014. Novartis expects to record a pre-tax gain of approximately $4.6 billion in the first quarter of 2015.
Novartis generated sales of $1.1 billion in 2013 from this division while sales through the third quarter of 2014 were $0.9 billion.
We remind investors that Novartis had undertaken a reorganization of its portfolio earlier in 2014. Apart from divesting its animal health business, Novartis entered into an agreement with GlaxoSmithKline ( GSK ) in Apr 2014 to divest its vaccines business (excluding flu) to Glaxo. On the other hand, Novartis would acquire Glaxo's oncology products. The agreement also provides Novartis with opt-in rights to Glaxo's current and future oncology R&D pipeline. Novartis expects to close the deal with Glaxo by the first half of 2015.
Novartis had also divested its blood transfusion diagnostics unit to Grifols S.A. in Jan 2014.
We view the reorganization steps as positive for the company. These will broaden Novartis' portfolio and enable it to focus on its core capabilities of pharmaceuticals, eye care and generics, besides contributing immensely to the top line. Margins are also expected to get a significant boost.
On the other hand, the acquisition of Novartis' animal health business will strengthen Eli Lilly's Elanco's product portfolio, augment its manufacturing and R&D capabilities, and expand its global commercial presence substantially.
Novartis, a large-cap pharma, currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). Investors looking for a better-ranked stock among the large-cap pharmas may consider AbbVie, Inc. ( ABBV ). The stock currently carries a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy).
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | Investors looking for a better-ranked stock among the large-cap pharmas may consider AbbVie, Inc. ( ABBV ). Click to get this free report LILLY ELI & CO (LLY): Free Stock Analysis Report NOVARTIS AG-ADR (NVS): Free Stock Analysis Report GLAXOSMITHKLINE (GSK): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Novartis ( NVS ) announced today that it has completed the divestment of its animal health division to Eli Lilly and Company ( LLY ) for approximately $5.4 billion. | Click to get this free report LILLY ELI & CO (LLY): Free Stock Analysis Report NOVARTIS AG-ADR (NVS): Free Stock Analysis Report GLAXOSMITHKLINE (GSK): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Investors looking for a better-ranked stock among the large-cap pharmas may consider AbbVie, Inc. ( ABBV ). Novartis ( NVS ) announced today that it has completed the divestment of its animal health division to Eli Lilly and Company ( LLY ) for approximately $5.4 billion. | Click to get this free report LILLY ELI & CO (LLY): Free Stock Analysis Report NOVARTIS AG-ADR (NVS): Free Stock Analysis Report GLAXOSMITHKLINE (GSK): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Investors looking for a better-ranked stock among the large-cap pharmas may consider AbbVie, Inc. ( ABBV ). Novartis ( NVS ) announced today that it has completed the divestment of its animal health division to Eli Lilly and Company ( LLY ) for approximately $5.4 billion. | Investors looking for a better-ranked stock among the large-cap pharmas may consider AbbVie, Inc. ( ABBV ). Click to get this free report LILLY ELI & CO (LLY): Free Stock Analysis Report NOVARTIS AG-ADR (NVS): Free Stock Analysis Report GLAXOSMITHKLINE (GSK): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Novartis ( NVS ) announced today that it has completed the divestment of its animal health division to Eli Lilly and Company ( LLY ) for approximately $5.4 billion. | 72d8fcf1-1106-4004-8f9c-95a16df755f2 |
27183.0 | 2015-01-02 00:00:00 UTC | Bull of the Day: Incyte (INCY) - Bull of the Day | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/bull-day-incyte-incy-bull-day-2015-01-02 | nan | nan | Incyte Corporation (INCY) is a $12 billion pharmaceutical company that is expected to finally turn a profit next year on the success of its drug Jakafi, the only FDA-approved treatment for myelofibrosis (MF).
Incyte was formerly called Incyte Genomics in the 1990s when it was a pioneer in that groundbreaking research and a key provider of database information on the human genome to the world's top pharmaceutical companies.
Jakafi (ruxolitinib) has been used to treat more than 9,800 patients with MF worldwide and will represent over $350 million of the company's $500 million in revenues for 2014.
As physician uptake and approval in other countries accelerates, analysts have been raising estimates for INCY with FY14 EPS climbing from a loss of $0.36 to a loss of $0.18 in the last 90 days while 2015's EPS projections swing from a profit of $0.23 to a profit of $0.32.
How Jakafi Works
Myelofibrosis is a complex condition, and researchers are still trying to discover its exact cause. Researchers now think one cause is that JAK proteins, which communicate within blood cells, send too many signals. When JAKs send too many signals, they cause the body to make the wrong number of blood cells. This chain of events is called overactive JAK signaling.
JAK signaling may become overactive in many ways. One way is by a JAK mutation. A mutation is a small change in the DNA that causes proteins to act differently than normally intended. All people with myelofibrosis are believed to have overactive JAK signaling even if they do not have a JAK mutation.
Jakafi works by targeting JAKs, which control the production of blood cells. In doing so, Jakafi reduces overactive JAK signaling. In early December, the Jakafi label was expanded for polycythemia vera (PV), a disorder of the bone marrow which causes too many red blood cells to be produced. This approval is expected to open up meaningful new indications for revenue growth.
The Incyte Pipeline
Incyte's pipeline has three fully-staffed drug discovery programs underway focused primarily on the identification of new small molecule drugs for cancer and inflammation. The company is applying its expertise in genomics, medicinal chemistry and molecular, cellular and in vivo biology to discover and develop novel therapeutics, particularly in oncology.
From the company website...
The field of oncology is evolving rapidly and transforming how cancer is and will be treated. With a growing pipeline that includes innovative compounds in three major oncology areas -- onco-inflammation, immuno-oncology and targeted therapies -- we believe Incyte is at the center of this transformation in cancer care.
Our lead JAK inhibitor, Jakafi (ruxolitinib), is approved for use in patients with intermediate or high-risk myelofibrosis. We are also pursuing FDA approval in a second related myeloproliferative neoplasm, polycythemia vera. Further, we are evaluating JAK inhibitors in multiple new indications and in combinations targeting solid tumors such as pancreatic, breast, colorectal and non-small cell lung cancer.
Phase III Success with Lilly
In early December, Incyte and partner Eli Lilly (LLY) announced encouraging results from the phase III RA-BEACON study on baricitinib. The study evaluated baricitinib in patients suffering from moderately-to-severely active rheumatoid arthritis (RA) having previously failed one or more tumor necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitors and who were on stable doses of conventional disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drug (cDMARD) therapy.
The company expects to present detail data from the study in 2015 and three other phase III trials with baricitinib are underway. Lilly and Incyte are also expecting results from additional phase III studies in 2015 on baricitinib in RA patients including those who have inadequately responded to conventional DMARDs and those with earlier stage disease.
Incyte and Lilly are also developing baricitinib for the treatment of psoriasis and diabetic nephropathy in phase II studies. While the positive results from the RA-BEACON study are encouraging, the successful development of its pipeline candidates is crucial for Incyte which is primarily dependent on Jakafi. However, competition is stiff in the RA market given the presence of treatments like AbbVie 's (ABBV) Humira among others.
Another Baker Brothers Grand Slam
I bought INCY for the Zacks FTM Trader portfolio in April of 2013 around $22 as I followed a couple of highly-successful biotech investors known to the investing world as Baker Brothers Advisors. Unfortunately, I lacked the vision and conviction of the brothers to hold on past $25.
Felix and Julian Baker hold 14.8 million shares, most of which they acquired at an average price in the low teens in Q4 of 2011 when they plunked down $242 million. That stake is now worth over $1 billion.
Brother Julian studied at Harvard and has a business background, and Brother Felix holds a PhD. in Immunology from Stanford University. Typically, the fund buys into companies at the lows, basing their decision on a fundamental analysis of the opportunity.
Recent Baker Bros successes include Pharmacyclics (PCYC), Agios Pharmaceuticals (AGIO), and the grand slam when Gilead Sciences (GILD) paid a massive premium for their shares of Pharmasett.
And recent fresh buying by the boys has shown up in Seattle Genetics (SGEN) where they have scooped up over 5 million shares in the past 5 weeks as that stock hits new 52-week lows.
In full disclosure, I own shares of SGEN for the Zacks FTM Trader. Let's see if I can hang on this time for the potential home run.
Kevin Cook is a Senior Stock Strategist for Zacks where he runs the Follow The Money (FTM) portfolio.
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | However, competition is stiff in the RA market given the presence of treatments like AbbVie 's (ABBV) Humira among others. Click to get this free report SEATTLE GENETIC (SGEN): Free Stock Analysis Report PHARMACYCLICS (PCYC): Free Stock Analysis Report INCYTE CORP (INCY): Free Stock Analysis Report GILEAD SCIENCES (GILD): Free Stock Analysis Report AGIOS PHARMACT (AGIO): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Incyte Corporation (INCY) is a $12 billion pharmaceutical company that is expected to finally turn a profit next year on the success of its drug Jakafi, the only FDA-approved treatment for myelofibrosis (MF). | Click to get this free report SEATTLE GENETIC (SGEN): Free Stock Analysis Report PHARMACYCLICS (PCYC): Free Stock Analysis Report INCYTE CORP (INCY): Free Stock Analysis Report GILEAD SCIENCES (GILD): Free Stock Analysis Report AGIOS PHARMACT (AGIO): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. However, competition is stiff in the RA market given the presence of treatments like AbbVie 's (ABBV) Humira among others. Phase III Success with Lilly In early December, Incyte and partner Eli Lilly (LLY) announced encouraging results from the phase III RA-BEACON study on baricitinib. | Click to get this free report SEATTLE GENETIC (SGEN): Free Stock Analysis Report PHARMACYCLICS (PCYC): Free Stock Analysis Report INCYTE CORP (INCY): Free Stock Analysis Report GILEAD SCIENCES (GILD): Free Stock Analysis Report AGIOS PHARMACT (AGIO): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. However, competition is stiff in the RA market given the presence of treatments like AbbVie 's (ABBV) Humira among others. Incyte Corporation (INCY) is a $12 billion pharmaceutical company that is expected to finally turn a profit next year on the success of its drug Jakafi, the only FDA-approved treatment for myelofibrosis (MF). | However, competition is stiff in the RA market given the presence of treatments like AbbVie 's (ABBV) Humira among others. Click to get this free report SEATTLE GENETIC (SGEN): Free Stock Analysis Report PHARMACYCLICS (PCYC): Free Stock Analysis Report INCYTE CORP (INCY): Free Stock Analysis Report GILEAD SCIENCES (GILD): Free Stock Analysis Report AGIOS PHARMACT (AGIO): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Incyte Corporation (INCY) is a $12 billion pharmaceutical company that is expected to finally turn a profit next year on the success of its drug Jakafi, the only FDA-approved treatment for myelofibrosis (MF). | 11c6907c-4869-49cb-a0c5-738a4a5caeb0 |
27184.0 | 2014-12-31 00:00:00 UTC | NeuroDerm Skyrockets on Parkinson's Disease Study Data - Analyst Blog | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/neuroderm-skyrockets-on-parkinsons-disease-study-data-analyst-blog-2014-12-31 | nan | nan | NeuroDerm Ltd. 's ( NDRM ) shares almost tripled (up 193.5%) after the company announced encouraging top-line data from a phase IIa pharmacokinetic study on its levodopa/carbidopa (LD/CD) candidates, ND0612H and ND0612L. NeuroDerm is evaluating ND0612L and ND0612H as a continuous, subcutaneous dosage of liquid LD/CD for moderate and advanced Parkinson's disease patients, respectively.
The phase IIa study evaluated the safety, tolerability and pharmacokinetics of six dosing regimens of ND0612H and ND0612L in Parkinson's disease patients over an eight-hour treatment period for three consecutive days, with high and low doses of CD and with adjunct oral Novartis' ( NVS ) Comtan (entacapone).
Results from the study revealed that both ND0612H and ND0612L led to clinically significant reduction in fluctuations of plasma levodopa concentration levels when compared to oral LD/CD. In addition to this, data showed that the higher dose version, ND0612H, can reach high LD plasma levels and prove to be an effective alternative treatment when compared to currently available treatments that require surgical intervention in advanced Parkinson's patients.
Encouraged by the positive results from the study, NeuroDerm intends to advance ND0612H and ND0612L in the U.S. and EU in 2015.
Apart from ND0612H and ND0612L, NeuroDerm has two more LD/CD Parkinson's disease candidates, namely, ND0680 and ND0701.
We note that several companies including Impax Laboratories Inc. ( IPXL ) is looking to bring its Parkinson's disease treatment to the market. Impax Laboratories' Rytary (an extended release capsule formulation of CD/LD) is currently under FDA review with a response expected by Jan 9, 2015.
NeuroDerm currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). Some better-ranked stocks in the health care sector include AbbVie ( ABBV ) and Impax. While AbbVie is a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) stock, Impax holds a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy).
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | Some better-ranked stocks in the health care sector include AbbVie ( ABBV ) and Impax. While AbbVie is a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) stock, Impax holds a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). Click to get this free report IMPAX LABORATRS (IPXL): Free Stock Analysis Report NOVARTIS AG-ADR (NVS): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report NEURODERM LTD (NDRM): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. | While AbbVie is a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) stock, Impax holds a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). Click to get this free report IMPAX LABORATRS (IPXL): Free Stock Analysis Report NOVARTIS AG-ADR (NVS): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report NEURODERM LTD (NDRM): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Some better-ranked stocks in the health care sector include AbbVie ( ABBV ) and Impax. | While AbbVie is a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) stock, Impax holds a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). Click to get this free report IMPAX LABORATRS (IPXL): Free Stock Analysis Report NOVARTIS AG-ADR (NVS): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report NEURODERM LTD (NDRM): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Some better-ranked stocks in the health care sector include AbbVie ( ABBV ) and Impax. | Some better-ranked stocks in the health care sector include AbbVie ( ABBV ) and Impax. While AbbVie is a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) stock, Impax holds a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). Click to get this free report IMPAX LABORATRS (IPXL): Free Stock Analysis Report NOVARTIS AG-ADR (NVS): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report NEURODERM LTD (NDRM): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. | 6c033666-62b5-40a3-a016-925811810871 |
27185.0 | 2014-12-30 00:00:00 UTC | Notable ETF Outflow Detected - DLN, MO, MCD, ABBV | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/notable-etf-outflow-detected-dln-mo-mcd-abbv-2014-12-30 | nan | nan | Looking today at week-over-week shares outstanding changes among the universe of ETFs covered at ETF Channel , one standout is the WisdomTree LargeCap Dividend Fund (Symbol: DLN) where we have detected an approximate $180.6 million dollar outflow -- that's a 6.9% decrease week over week (from 34,700,000 to 32,300,000). Among the largest underlying components of DLN, in trading today Altria Group Inc (Symbol: MO) is off about 0.2%, McDonald's Corp (Symbol: MCD) is off about 0.3%, and AbbVie Inc. (Symbol: ABBV) is lower by about 0.5%. For a complete list of holdings, visit the DLN Holdings page » The chart below shows the one year price performance of DLN, versus its 200 day moving average:
Looking at the chart above, DLN's low point in its 52 week range is $62.33 per share, with $75.42 as the 52 week high point - that compares with a last trade of $75.03. Comparing the most recent share price to the 200 day moving average can also be a useful technical analysis technique -- learn more about the 200 day moving average » .
Exchange traded funds (ETFs) trade just like stocks, but instead of ''shares'' investors are actually buying and selling ''units''. These ''units'' can be traded back and forth just like stocks, but can also be created or destroyed to accommodate investor demand. Each week we monitor the week-over-week change in shares outstanding data, to keep a lookout for those ETFs experiencing notable inflows (many new units created) or outflows (many old units destroyed). Creation of new units will mean the underlying holdings of the ETF need to be purchased, while destruction of units involves selling underlying holdings, so large flows can also impact the individual components held within ETFs.
Click here to find out which 9 other ETFs experienced notable outflows »
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | Among the largest underlying components of DLN, in trading today Altria Group Inc (Symbol: MO) is off about 0.2%, McDonald's Corp (Symbol: MCD) is off about 0.3%, and AbbVie Inc. (Symbol: ABBV) is lower by about 0.5%. Looking today at week-over-week shares outstanding changes among the universe of ETFs covered at ETF Channel , one standout is the WisdomTree LargeCap Dividend Fund (Symbol: DLN) where we have detected an approximate $180.6 million dollar outflow -- that's a 6.9% decrease week over week (from 34,700,000 to 32,300,000). These ''units'' can be traded back and forth just like stocks, but can also be created or destroyed to accommodate investor demand. | Among the largest underlying components of DLN, in trading today Altria Group Inc (Symbol: MO) is off about 0.2%, McDonald's Corp (Symbol: MCD) is off about 0.3%, and AbbVie Inc. (Symbol: ABBV) is lower by about 0.5%. For a complete list of holdings, visit the DLN Holdings page » The chart below shows the one year price performance of DLN, versus its 200 day moving average: Looking at the chart above, DLN's low point in its 52 week range is $62.33 per share, with $75.42 as the 52 week high point - that compares with a last trade of $75.03. Each week we monitor the week-over-week change in shares outstanding data, to keep a lookout for those ETFs experiencing notable inflows (many new units created) or outflows (many old units destroyed). | Among the largest underlying components of DLN, in trading today Altria Group Inc (Symbol: MO) is off about 0.2%, McDonald's Corp (Symbol: MCD) is off about 0.3%, and AbbVie Inc. (Symbol: ABBV) is lower by about 0.5%. Looking today at week-over-week shares outstanding changes among the universe of ETFs covered at ETF Channel , one standout is the WisdomTree LargeCap Dividend Fund (Symbol: DLN) where we have detected an approximate $180.6 million dollar outflow -- that's a 6.9% decrease week over week (from 34,700,000 to 32,300,000). For a complete list of holdings, visit the DLN Holdings page » The chart below shows the one year price performance of DLN, versus its 200 day moving average: Looking at the chart above, DLN's low point in its 52 week range is $62.33 per share, with $75.42 as the 52 week high point - that compares with a last trade of $75.03. | Among the largest underlying components of DLN, in trading today Altria Group Inc (Symbol: MO) is off about 0.2%, McDonald's Corp (Symbol: MCD) is off about 0.3%, and AbbVie Inc. (Symbol: ABBV) is lower by about 0.5%. For a complete list of holdings, visit the DLN Holdings page » The chart below shows the one year price performance of DLN, versus its 200 day moving average: Looking at the chart above, DLN's low point in its 52 week range is $62.33 per share, with $75.42 as the 52 week high point - that compares with a last trade of $75.03. Each week we monitor the week-over-week change in shares outstanding data, to keep a lookout for those ETFs experiencing notable inflows (many new units created) or outflows (many old units destroyed). | 1c6d7aac-7340-4952-aa64-81fab5733443 |
27186.0 | 2014-12-30 00:00:00 UTC | Start the New Year Off Right With the 3 Best Biotech Stocks | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/start-new-year-right-3-best-biotech-stocks-2014-12-30 | nan | nan | Source: Flickr user dpotera .
While many are popping champagne corks to welcome in the new year, we know that many fellow Fools (probably too many of us) will be wondering which companies could be the best bets for our portfolios in 2015. To help us figure that out, we asked three Motley Fools to tell us what companies they would like to own in the new year. Read on to see which stocks they picked.
Keith Speights : Gilead Sciences was a great biotech stock to own in 2014, with its share price jumping over 30%. Is Gilead still a smart biotech buy headed into 2015? Yep. Here are three simple reasons why.
First, Gilead trades at a trailing price-to-earnings multiple of less than 18. Look at other biotechs' valuations: You'd be hard-pressed to find another company in the industry so attractively priced right now.
Second, Gilead's powerhouse HIV franchise continues to rock. Yes, the biggest moneymaker in the group, Atripla, suffered declining year-over-year sales in the most recent quarter. However, up-and-comers such as Complera/Eviplera and Stribild more than compensated for that decrease. Overall, sales for Gilead's HIV franchise climbed more than 17% last quarter compared to the third quarter of 2014.
Third, hepatitis C drugs Sovaldi and Harvoni should continue to drive fantastic growth for Gilead. Concerns about payer pushback and the prospect of challengers in the near term won't derail the success of these two drugs, in my view. The good news is that these concerns have helped contain Gilead's share price, making the stock worth serious consideration for investors looking for a solid biotech buy for the new near.
LeoSun : AbbVie , the maker of the blockbuster arthritis drug Humira, is a solid biotech play for 2015. Humira, which generated worldwide sales of $10.7 billion in 2013, accounted for 63% of AbbVie's top line during the first nine months of 2014.
Granted, AbbVie's dependence on a single drug is worrisome, but sales are still climbing -- up 20% year over year, to $9.18 billion, in the first nine months of 2014. The U.S. patent for Humira will expire in 2016, but the most advanced biosimilar, Cadila Healthcare 's Exemptia, is not expected to enter the U.S. market until 2019. Humira's European patent won't expire until 2018. That gives AbbVie three to four years to properly diversify its top line.
AbbVie's best hope is for its new hepatitis C regimen (Viekirax/Exviera, a combination of three drugs in six pills with a blood booster) to win FDA approval and steal market share from Gilead's Harvoni, a more convenient once-daily pill for genotype 1, the most common form of hepatitis C. AbbVie could accomplish this by undercutting Harvoni's controversial 12-week regimen price tag of $94,500. If the combo is approved, analysts believe AbbVie's hep C revenue could hit $2 billion by next year. This all makes AbbViea solid biotech stock that won't slow anytime soon, but investors should keep a close eye on its hep C progress.
Todd Campbell : I agree with Keith and Leo that those two stocks could be solid performers, but I'd also encourage investors to spend a little time getting to knowCelgene over the holidays.
Celgene markets Revlimid, a top-selling treatment for multiple myeloma; Abraxane, a cancer medicine with $212 million in sales last quarter; and Pomalyst, a third-line treatment for multiple myeloma that saw sales double in the past year to $181 million.
Those three drugs offer plenty of reasons to like Celgene in 2015, but investors might also benefit from rising sales of Celgene's newest drug. This past fall, regulators approved oral pill Otezla to treat psoriasis. More than 7 million people suffer from psoriasis in the U.S. alone, so Celgene thinks Otezla could have billion-dollar potential someday. In addition, investors should also keep a look out for potential label expansion for Revlimid. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is scheduled in February to decide whether to approve Revlimid's use in previously untreated multiple myeloma. Approval could offer Celgenea nice boost in 2015.
1 great stock to buy for 2015 and beyond
2015 is shaping up to be another great year for stocks. But if you want to make sure that 2015 is your best investing year ever, you need to know where to start. That's why The Motley Fool's chief investment officer just published a brand-new research report that reveals his top stock for the year ahead. To get the full story on this year's stock -- completely free -- simply click here .
The article Start the New Year Off Right With the 3 Best Biotech Stocks originally appeared on Fool.com.
Keith Speights owns shares of Celgene and Gilead Sciences. Leo Sun owns shares of Gilead Sciences. Todd Campbell owns shares of Celgene and Gilead Sciences. The Motley Fool recommends Celgene and Gilead Sciences. The Motley Fool owns shares of Gilead Sciences. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days . We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy .
Copyright © 1995 - 2014 The Motley Fool, LLC. All rights reserved. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy .
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | This all makes AbbViea solid biotech stock that won't slow anytime soon, but investors should keep a close eye on its hep C progress. LeoSun : AbbVie , the maker of the blockbuster arthritis drug Humira, is a solid biotech play for 2015. Humira, which generated worldwide sales of $10.7 billion in 2013, accounted for 63% of AbbVie's top line during the first nine months of 2014. | LeoSun : AbbVie , the maker of the blockbuster arthritis drug Humira, is a solid biotech play for 2015. Humira, which generated worldwide sales of $10.7 billion in 2013, accounted for 63% of AbbVie's top line during the first nine months of 2014. Granted, AbbVie's dependence on a single drug is worrisome, but sales are still climbing -- up 20% year over year, to $9.18 billion, in the first nine months of 2014. | AbbVie's best hope is for its new hepatitis C regimen (Viekirax/Exviera, a combination of three drugs in six pills with a blood booster) to win FDA approval and steal market share from Gilead's Harvoni, a more convenient once-daily pill for genotype 1, the most common form of hepatitis C. AbbVie could accomplish this by undercutting Harvoni's controversial 12-week regimen price tag of $94,500. LeoSun : AbbVie , the maker of the blockbuster arthritis drug Humira, is a solid biotech play for 2015. Humira, which generated worldwide sales of $10.7 billion in 2013, accounted for 63% of AbbVie's top line during the first nine months of 2014. | LeoSun : AbbVie , the maker of the blockbuster arthritis drug Humira, is a solid biotech play for 2015. Humira, which generated worldwide sales of $10.7 billion in 2013, accounted for 63% of AbbVie's top line during the first nine months of 2014. Granted, AbbVie's dependence on a single drug is worrisome, but sales are still climbing -- up 20% year over year, to $9.18 billion, in the first nine months of 2014. | 9c447207-f593-435d-9f8d-956ed661d857 |
27187.0 | 2014-12-30 00:00:00 UTC | 3 Cheap Dividend Stocks You Can Buy Right Now | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/3-cheap-dividend-stocks-you-can-buy-right-now-2014-12-30 | nan | nan | Source: TaxCredits.net via Flickr .
Dividend stocks are the cornerstone of many well-run retirement portfolios -- that's a fact. The reason is that dividend stocks act as a beacon to investors, inviting them to take a deeper look into a company whose business model is so sound it can pay out a percentage of its annual profits on a regular basis to its investors.
Even more so, dividends can provide a downside hedge in volatile and bear markets. Investors in dividend stocks tend to be more long-term oriented, which usually means far less day-trading and less volatility.
Lastly, dividends can be reinvested, giving the buyer a chance to really compound gains over the long run. These payouts can mean the difference between simply retiring and retiring the way you've always dreamed.
With that in mind, let's have a look at three cheap dividend stocks you can consider buying right now.
1. AbbVie
This is turning out to be a big year for pharmaceutical giant AbbVie, and surprisingly, its success may have little to do with the performance anti-inflammatory drug Humira, the current best-selling drug in the world.
Source: Gilead Sciences.
Within the past two weeks, AbbVie received approval in the United States and Canada for its direct-acting antiviral hepatitis C drug targeted at genotype 1 patients (the most common genotype that comprises about three-quarters of all HCV cases). Known as Viekira Pak in the U.S., it has been widely expected to go head to head with Gilead Sciences and its blockbuster HCV duo Sovaldi and Harvoni. More specifically, with Harvoni being administered sans interferon and ribavirin for genotype 1 patients, it's expected to be a direct challenger to Harvoni.
However, last week, AbbVie and Express Scripts announced a multi-year agreement whereby Express Scripts will exclusively use Viekira Pak for eligible genotype 1 patients and utilize Gilead's Sovaldi for additional genotypes where Viekira Pak isn't currently indicated . In exchange, AbbVie agreed to provide Viekira Pak to Express Scripts at a "significant discount," though the nature of this discount has yet to be revealed by either party.
Source: Express Scripts.
Obviously, Viekira Pak's exclusive agreement could be just the spark long-term AbbVie shareholders were looking for to help replace Humira's sales when it goes off patent later this decade. In the meantime, AbbVie is forecast to grow sales and profits by double-digits for perhaps the next couple of years, and it announced a 17% dividend increase in October to $0.49 per quarter. Sporting a forward P/E of 16 and yield of nearly 3%, this could be a cheap dividend stock that both income and growth investors appreciate.
2. Orange
Whereas most stocks were in all-out rally mode since the Great Recession, shareholders in French telecom giant Orange have been pummeled. Fierce competition from low-cost wireless carriers in its home market of France and a weak European economy have wreaked havoc on Orange, causing the company to lower what had been a mammoth dividend and restructure its operations.
I'm fully aware that probably doesn't sound very good. However, Orange is nearing the end of its restructuring period, which included steep cost cuts and the sale of non-core assets like the sale of Dominican Republic assets for $1.4 billion to Altice in November. Putting these restructuring costs in the rearview mirror is critical for Orange to demonstrate to shareholders how it's trimmed its expenses and boosted its margins. It'll also provide a nice bump up in EPS that could ultimately surprise Wall Street.
Source: Orange.
Also, Orange has been looking for ways to expand its reach beyond Europe , and Africa appears to be the solution. While most companies are turning toward Asia to boost their bottom lines, in the telecom industry, Africa represents an area of huge, but largely untapped, potential. Orange notes that Africa could have around 500 million mobile users by 2016. As of Sept. 2012, Orange already had 95 million wireless subscribers throughout the region and has set plans to unveil 3G throughout Africa by the end of 2015. This investment in Africa, while expensive now, should pay big dividends (pardon the blatant pun) throughout the remainder of the decade.
With the European economy mostly on the mend, it looks as if Orange shareholders' recent good fortune may continue. At just 12 times forward earnings, Orange is very reasonably priced, and the 5.5% yield it paid out to shareholders in 2014 certainly makes Orange a cheap dividend stock worth considering for income investors with a greater appetite for risk and international exposure.
3. Valero Energy
Lastly, I'll turn your attention to the oil refining sector and Valero Energy as a potentially cheap dividend stock to consider.
Like most oil-related stocks Valero Energy is simply guilty by association . Oil prices have plunged by 50% since summer, and fears that falling prices could adversely impact the desire to improve asset recovery and boost refined production persist. Further, worries exist that low oil prices could send the world into a global recession.
Source: Valero Energy.
However, I'd suggest that Valero is not one of those oil companies investors need to be concerned with. You see, rapidly falling crude oil is often great news for refiners, which see their crack spreads widen. Crack spreads are the margin indicators for refiners, so their widening signals heftier profits. In Valero's third-quarter results, for instance, it saw its operating income more than triple to $1.7 billion from $0.53 billion in the year-ago quarter.
In spite of concerns that low oil prices could hamper drillers' production, there are two factors aside from favorable crack spreads that should also work in Valero's favor. First, low crude prices tend to attract consumers to spend more. They're more willing to drive to their destination, meaning crude demand, and thus the demand for refined gasoline, could actually increase in the coming quarters. Also, with many drillers having pretty steep debt obligations following the rapid development of U.S. shale over the past decade, they may simply choose to boost production in order to generate extra cash flow to meet their debt obligations. This, too, would be excellent news for refiners like Valero.
At a forward P/E of less than 10 and boasting a dividend yield of 2.4% Valero Energy is certainly worth a close inspection.
These three companies appear cheap, but this is the one stock that could be the "income play of a lifetime"
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The article 3 Cheap Dividend Stocks You Can Buy Right Now originally appeared on Fool.com.
Sean Williams has no material interest in any companies mentioned in this article. You can follow him on CAPS under the screen nameTMFUltraLong, track every pick he makes under the screen nameTrackUltraLong, and check him out on Twitter, where he goes by the handle@TMFUltraLong.The Motley Fool owns shares of, and recommends Express Scripts, Gilead Sciences, and Orange. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days . We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy .
Copyright © 1995 - 2014 The Motley Fool, LLC. All rights reserved. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy .
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | In the meantime, AbbVie is forecast to grow sales and profits by double-digits for perhaps the next couple of years, and it announced a 17% dividend increase in October to $0.49 per quarter. AbbVie This is turning out to be a big year for pharmaceutical giant AbbVie, and surprisingly, its success may have little to do with the performance anti-inflammatory drug Humira, the current best-selling drug in the world. Within the past two weeks, AbbVie received approval in the United States and Canada for its direct-acting antiviral hepatitis C drug targeted at genotype 1 patients (the most common genotype that comprises about three-quarters of all HCV cases). | However, last week, AbbVie and Express Scripts announced a multi-year agreement whereby Express Scripts will exclusively use Viekira Pak for eligible genotype 1 patients and utilize Gilead's Sovaldi for additional genotypes where Viekira Pak isn't currently indicated . AbbVie This is turning out to be a big year for pharmaceutical giant AbbVie, and surprisingly, its success may have little to do with the performance anti-inflammatory drug Humira, the current best-selling drug in the world. Within the past two weeks, AbbVie received approval in the United States and Canada for its direct-acting antiviral hepatitis C drug targeted at genotype 1 patients (the most common genotype that comprises about three-quarters of all HCV cases). | However, last week, AbbVie and Express Scripts announced a multi-year agreement whereby Express Scripts will exclusively use Viekira Pak for eligible genotype 1 patients and utilize Gilead's Sovaldi for additional genotypes where Viekira Pak isn't currently indicated . AbbVie This is turning out to be a big year for pharmaceutical giant AbbVie, and surprisingly, its success may have little to do with the performance anti-inflammatory drug Humira, the current best-selling drug in the world. Within the past two weeks, AbbVie received approval in the United States and Canada for its direct-acting antiviral hepatitis C drug targeted at genotype 1 patients (the most common genotype that comprises about three-quarters of all HCV cases). | AbbVie This is turning out to be a big year for pharmaceutical giant AbbVie, and surprisingly, its success may have little to do with the performance anti-inflammatory drug Humira, the current best-selling drug in the world. Within the past two weeks, AbbVie received approval in the United States and Canada for its direct-acting antiviral hepatitis C drug targeted at genotype 1 patients (the most common genotype that comprises about three-quarters of all HCV cases). However, last week, AbbVie and Express Scripts announced a multi-year agreement whereby Express Scripts will exclusively use Viekira Pak for eligible genotype 1 patients and utilize Gilead's Sovaldi for additional genotypes where Viekira Pak isn't currently indicated . | 97f6adaf-ac3f-4fd7-a27a-d3f0111c3073 |
27188.0 | 2014-12-30 00:00:00 UTC | Repros Gains on Positive Updates on the Status of Androxal - Analyst Blog | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/repros-gains-on-positive-updates-on-the-status-of-androxal-analyst-blog-2014-12-30 | nan | nan | Repros Therapeutics Inc. ( RPRX ) announced that it has submitted a complete response to the guidance provided by the FDA last month regarding the expected new drug application (NDA) submission for Androxal (read more: Repros Soars on Positive FDA Meeting Regarding Androxa ).
Shares of the company gained 6.7% after the announcement.
Repros is looking to get the candidate approved for the treatment of low testosterone due to secondary hypogonadism. The company further stated that after its follow-up discussion with the FDA for the Environmental Assessment requirements for the NDA, the regulatory body pointed out that performing the appropriate non-clinical experiments during the NDA review period will be considered sufficient for the filing. Additionally, the company believes that it does not have any refuse-to-file issues for its NDA.
Repros expects to file for Androxal by the end of the first quarter 2015 after having all documents ready for the contract organization assisting with the electronic filing of the NDA.
The company expects to submit regulatory application in the EU in the first quarter of 2016. The company is seeking New Chemical Entity status for the product.
AbbVie Inc.'s ( ABBV ) AndroGel is one of the currently available treatments for hypogonadism in the market.
In a separate release, Repros announced the initiation of two phase IIb studies on Proellex for the treatment of uterine fibroids in women who experience heavy vaginal bleeding as a result of these benign tumors. These studies will be testing two different routes of administration of Proellex, oral and vaginal.
The main efficacy endpoint of both these studies is amenorrhea as recommended by the FDA. Both the studies will have three double-blind arms of placebo and Proellex 6 mg and Proellex 12 mg doses. The company will also evaluate the incidence of amenorrhea, actual menstrual blood loss (to be estimated by the alkaline hematin method from used sanitary products), in the studies.
Patients in the study will be treated by two 4-month dosing courses which will be separated by an off drug interval to allow for menses. The FDA has asked Repros to follow the women for six additional menstrual events to investigate the duration of benefit after the second course of dosing.
Repros intends to request a Type C meeting with the FDA, expected around the end of 2015, after all women have experienced the menstrual event after the first course of treatment. The company will discuss the overall FDA proposed size of the safety database required for an NDA in the Type C meeting.
Earlier phase II studies on Proellex showed that both the oral and vaginal administration stopped menses.
Our Take
We are encouraged by the recent announcements, particularly its update on Androxal. The successful development and commercialization of Androxal is essential for Repros as it has no approved product in its portfolio yet. We expect investor focus to stay on future updates on Androxal.
Repros carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). Some better-ranked stocks in the health care space include AMAG Pharmaceuticals, Inc. ( AMAG ) and The Medicines Company ( MDCO ). Both carry a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy).
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | AbbVie Inc.'s ( ABBV ) AndroGel is one of the currently available treatments for hypogonadism in the market. Click to get this free report MEDICINES CO (MDCO): Free Stock Analysis Report AMAG PHARMA INC (AMAG): Free Stock Analysis Report REPROS THERAPEU (RPRX): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. In a separate release, Repros announced the initiation of two phase IIb studies on Proellex for the treatment of uterine fibroids in women who experience heavy vaginal bleeding as a result of these benign tumors. | Click to get this free report MEDICINES CO (MDCO): Free Stock Analysis Report AMAG PHARMA INC (AMAG): Free Stock Analysis Report REPROS THERAPEU (RPRX): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. AbbVie Inc.'s ( ABBV ) AndroGel is one of the currently available treatments for hypogonadism in the market. Repros Therapeutics Inc. ( RPRX ) announced that it has submitted a complete response to the guidance provided by the FDA last month regarding the expected new drug application (NDA) submission for Androxal (read more: Repros Soars on Positive FDA Meeting Regarding Androxa ). | Click to get this free report MEDICINES CO (MDCO): Free Stock Analysis Report AMAG PHARMA INC (AMAG): Free Stock Analysis Report REPROS THERAPEU (RPRX): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. AbbVie Inc.'s ( ABBV ) AndroGel is one of the currently available treatments for hypogonadism in the market. Repros Therapeutics Inc. ( RPRX ) announced that it has submitted a complete response to the guidance provided by the FDA last month regarding the expected new drug application (NDA) submission for Androxal (read more: Repros Soars on Positive FDA Meeting Regarding Androxa ). | AbbVie Inc.'s ( ABBV ) AndroGel is one of the currently available treatments for hypogonadism in the market. Click to get this free report MEDICINES CO (MDCO): Free Stock Analysis Report AMAG PHARMA INC (AMAG): Free Stock Analysis Report REPROS THERAPEU (RPRX): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Earlier phase II studies on Proellex showed that both the oral and vaginal administration stopped menses. | f5c1c8a5-3f5b-4045-9d76-dfa6e321a0f9 |
27189.0 | 2014-12-30 00:00:00 UTC | Roche's Ebola Test Gets FDA's Emergency Use Authorization - Analyst Blog | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/roches-ebola-test-gets-fdas-emergency-use-authorization-analyst-blog-2014-12-30 | nan | nan | Roche ( RHHBY ) announced that the FDA has granted Emergency Use Authorization for the LightMix Ebola Zaire rRT-PCR Test.
The test is allowed for use in patients showing signs and symptoms of Ebola Zaire virus infection in combination with epidemiological risk factors, such as individuals traveling from West Africa.
The test is able to detect the Ebola Zaire virus in whole blood samples using the large installed base of Roche's LightCycler 480 or cobas z 480 instruments.
The FDA's permission to use the molecular diagnostic test came on the heels of the recent widespread outbreak of the Ebola virus. As the test is equipped to rapidly detect presence of the virus, patient treatment may commence earlier than before.
Apart from providing therapeutic products and services for diverse medical needs, Roche focuses on innovative diagnostic solutions for the early detection and treatment of diseases.
This pharmaceutical major has a broad portfolio of diagnostic tests with more than a hundred high-quality Elecsys assays for immune testing along with a new generation of fully-automated cobas analyzers for better decision making, scheduling and efficiency. The Diagnostics division of the company generated sales of CHF 7.8 billion in the first nine months of 2014, up 6% from a year ago.
Roche is the exclusive distributor of the test. The test is not yet approved by the FDA but the agency has permitted to use the same considering increased need for such detection tests amid the Ebola epidemic.
Roche currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). Some better-ranked stocks in the broader health care sector include AbbVie ( ABBV ), Allergan ( AGN ) and Abbott Inc ( ABT ). All three carry a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy).
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | Some better-ranked stocks in the broader health care sector include AbbVie ( ABBV ), Allergan ( AGN ) and Abbott Inc ( ABT ). Click to get this free report ROCHE HLDG LTD (RHHBY): Free Stock Analysis Report ALLERGAN INC (AGN): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBOTT LABS (ABT): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. The test is allowed for use in patients showing signs and symptoms of Ebola Zaire virus infection in combination with epidemiological risk factors, such as individuals traveling from West Africa. | Some better-ranked stocks in the broader health care sector include AbbVie ( ABBV ), Allergan ( AGN ) and Abbott Inc ( ABT ). Click to get this free report ROCHE HLDG LTD (RHHBY): Free Stock Analysis Report ALLERGAN INC (AGN): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBOTT LABS (ABT): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Zacks Investment Research The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | Click to get this free report ROCHE HLDG LTD (RHHBY): Free Stock Analysis Report ALLERGAN INC (AGN): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBOTT LABS (ABT): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Some better-ranked stocks in the broader health care sector include AbbVie ( ABBV ), Allergan ( AGN ) and Abbott Inc ( ABT ). The test is able to detect the Ebola Zaire virus in whole blood samples using the large installed base of Roche's LightCycler 480 or cobas z 480 instruments. | Click to get this free report ROCHE HLDG LTD (RHHBY): Free Stock Analysis Report ALLERGAN INC (AGN): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBOTT LABS (ABT): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Some better-ranked stocks in the broader health care sector include AbbVie ( ABBV ), Allergan ( AGN ) and Abbott Inc ( ABT ). Roche ( RHHBY ) announced that the FDA has granted Emergency Use Authorization for the LightMix Ebola Zaire rRT-PCR Test. | 4ab2e1da-8441-4775-88ed-0445b278d0a2 |
27190.0 | 2014-12-29 00:00:00 UTC | Novartis' Cosentyx Approved in Japan for Psoriatic Arthritis - Analyst Blog | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/novartis-cosentyx-approved-in-japan-for-psoriatic-arthritis-analyst-blog-2014-12-29 | nan | nan | Novartis ( NVS ) announced that the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW) has approved Cosentyx (secukinumab) for the treatment of both psoriasis vulgaris and psoriatic arthritis (PsA) in adults who have failed to respond adequately to systemic therapies (except for biologics).
The approval was based on positive safety and efficacy results from more than 10 phase II and phase III studies and supported by two pivotal phase III studies, FUTURE 1 and FUTURE 2.
The studies demonstrated a favorable safety profile for Cosentyx, with similar incidence and severity of adverse events across the different treatment arms.
Meanwhile, Cosentyx has obtained a positive opinion from the European Medicines Agency's Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP). In Nov 2014, the CHMP recommended Cosentyx as a first-line treatment of moderate-to-severe psoriasis.
In Oct 2014, the FDA's Dermatologic and Ophthalmic Drugs Advisory Committee (DODAC) unanimously voted in favor of approving Cosentyx for the treatment of moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis in adult patients suitable for systemic therapy or phototherapy. The DODAC's recommendation was based on safety and efficacy data from 10 phase II/III studies in patients suffering from moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis.
A response from the FDA regarding the approval of Cosentyx should be out in early 2015.
Novartis is also evaluating Cosentyx for the treatment of ankylosing spondylitis (AS) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
The approval of Cosentyx in Japan will be a major boost for Novartis as it will further strengthen the company's dermatology portfolio. The company already has Xolair in its dermatology portfolio, which is approved both in the EU and the U.S. While the treatment is labeled as refractory chronic spontaneous urticaria in the EU it is known as refractory chronic idiopathic urticaria in the U.S.
The successful development and commercialization of the pipeline is important for the company as it faces generic competition for several key drugs such as Gleevec, Zometa and Diovan.
Novartis currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). Some better-ranked stocks in the broader health care sector include AbbVie ( ABBV ), Allergan ( AGN ) and Abbott Inc ( ABT ). All three carry a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy).
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | Some better-ranked stocks in the broader health care sector include AbbVie ( ABBV ), Allergan ( AGN ) and Abbott Inc ( ABT ). Click to get this free report ALLERGAN INC (AGN): Free Stock Analysis Report NOVARTIS AG-ADR (NVS): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBOTT LABS (ABT): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Novartis ( NVS ) announced that the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW) has approved Cosentyx (secukinumab) for the treatment of both psoriasis vulgaris and psoriatic arthritis (PsA) in adults who have failed to respond adequately to systemic therapies (except for biologics). | Click to get this free report ALLERGAN INC (AGN): Free Stock Analysis Report NOVARTIS AG-ADR (NVS): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBOTT LABS (ABT): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Some better-ranked stocks in the broader health care sector include AbbVie ( ABBV ), Allergan ( AGN ) and Abbott Inc ( ABT ). In Oct 2014, the FDA's Dermatologic and Ophthalmic Drugs Advisory Committee (DODAC) unanimously voted in favor of approving Cosentyx for the treatment of moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis in adult patients suitable for systemic therapy or phototherapy. | Click to get this free report ALLERGAN INC (AGN): Free Stock Analysis Report NOVARTIS AG-ADR (NVS): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBOTT LABS (ABT): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Some better-ranked stocks in the broader health care sector include AbbVie ( ABBV ), Allergan ( AGN ) and Abbott Inc ( ABT ). Novartis ( NVS ) announced that the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW) has approved Cosentyx (secukinumab) for the treatment of both psoriasis vulgaris and psoriatic arthritis (PsA) in adults who have failed to respond adequately to systemic therapies (except for biologics). | Some better-ranked stocks in the broader health care sector include AbbVie ( ABBV ), Allergan ( AGN ) and Abbott Inc ( ABT ). Click to get this free report ALLERGAN INC (AGN): Free Stock Analysis Report NOVARTIS AG-ADR (NVS): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBOTT LABS (ABT): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. In Oct 2014, the FDA's Dermatologic and Ophthalmic Drugs Advisory Committee (DODAC) unanimously voted in favor of approving Cosentyx for the treatment of moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis in adult patients suitable for systemic therapy or phototherapy. | bc44db58-7d1c-4fd6-9cb9-a569d32ca2aa |
27191.0 | 2014-12-29 00:00:00 UTC | Is Gilead Sciences, Inc. a Value Stock Following Its Tumble? | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/gilead-sciences-inc-value-stock-following-its-tumble-2014-12-29 | nan | nan | Source: Gilead Sciences via Google Maps.
Until last week, Gilead Sciences was a poster child for success in 2014. Its recently launched hepatitis C pill Sovaldi had more than$8.5 billion in sales during the first nine months of this year, and the October FDA approval of the company's second-generation hepatitis C drug Harvoni had investors expecting Gilead's sales to similarly impress in 2015.
However, those sky-high projections were deflated whendrug middleman Express Scripts said AbbVie 's new hepatitis C drug, Viekira Pak, would be the exclusive treatment for genotype 1 patients covered by its drug formulary, a ranking system used by healthcare payers to decide which drugs they will cover. That decision caused Gilead Sciences shares to tumble by nearly 20% in two days last week, in the process creating an intriguing opportunity for investors.
The backstory
More than 150 million people around the world are infected with hepatitis C, and the launch of Sovaldi last December was truly game changing for those patients.
Previously, hepatitis C patients were prescribed a combination of drugs that included Vertex Pharmaceuticals ' Incivek and the side effect-laden cocktail of peginterferon and ribavirin. That treatment regimen was far from ideal, because it relied on painful injections, came with flu-like symptoms, and only cured about 80% of patients taking it. As a result, doctors and patients were quick to embrace Sovaldi, which was taken as a pill, eliminated peginterferon for most patients, and cured more than 90% of patients. However, those advantages came at a steep expense: Sovaldi costs $84,000, or about $1,000 per pill, which is far north of the $50,000 or so that payers forked over for Incivek.
Source: Gilead Sciences.
A similar situation has played out with Gilead's newly approved Harvoni. The drug, a one-pill combination of Sovaldi and ledipasvir, offers cure rates as high as 99%, removes the need for both peginterferon and ribavirin, and can offer 40% of genotype 1 patients an eight-week treatment cycle, rather than the 12 weeks required for Sovaldi patients. Those advantages made doctors and patients instant fans, but Gilead Sciences' decision to price its 12-week cycle at $94,500 drew payers' ire.
As a result, payers have rooted for another successful treatment option they could pit against Harvoni. AbbVie's Viekira Pak, which won FDA approval last week, gave them that, as well as a drugmaker eager to offer steep price discounts to grab market share. AbbVie cut a deal with Express Scripts that makes Viekira Pak the exclusive hepatitis C treatment on the pharmacy benefits manager's formulary -- essentially shutting out Harvoni for the 25 million patients covered by plans that rely on that formulary.
Opportunity ahead?
There's little question the move will mean more sales of Viekira Pak than initially anticipated, but before investors shun Gilead Sciences, they should remember the roughly 3 million people with hepatitis C in the United States and 9 million people with the disease in Europe.
While Express Scripts is a big player in pharmacy management, its decision only impacts about 175,000 hepatitis C patients, roughly 70% of the 1% of Americans with hepatitis C who are covered by the formulary.
That suggests Harvoni could still be used to treat tens of thousands of patients in 2015, especially given that Gilead's product is arguably the better drug. Harvoni is taken once daily, while Viekira Pak's regimen consists of three pills in the morning and another pill in the evening. Harvoni also delivers better cure rates without ribavirin than Viekira Pak, and Harvoni can be dosed for as little as eight weeks, while Viekira Pak requires 12 weeks of treatment.
Gilead Sciences should also still generate plenty of sales for Sovaldi. The American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases only recommends Harvoni and Viekira Pak in genotype 1 and genotype 4 patients, which means that as many as 30% of hepatitis C patients globally will still need to take Sovaldi. It's also important to recognize that Express Scripts didn't remove Sovaldi from its formulary for patients other than genotype 1.
In addition to Gilead Sciences' remaining opportunity in hepatitis C next year, the company should also continue reaping blockbuster sales for its HIV drugs. GIlead Sciences is the top seller of HIV medicine globally and boasts five HIV therapies that may deliver $1 billion or more in sales this year. The company is on pace to generate $10 billion or more in sales from its HIV therapies in 2015.
Gilead Sciences also markets two cardiovascular drugs that produce another $1 billion in annual sales, and the company just launched its first cancer drug, Zydelig, this past summer. These multiple levers for sales growth suggest there is plenty of revenue outside of hepatitis C to support owning shares in the company.
A brighter future?
While Express Scripts' decision could dent sales in the short term, it doesn't derail Gilead Sciences' future. The company is working on yet another generation of hepatitis C treatments that could bring higher cure rates to even the toughest-to-treat cases and may further cut down the treatment period. Competitors are working on their own new treatments, but Gilead Sciences arguably remains in the lead.
Additionally, Gilead's pipeline is flush with other therapies that could move the needle, including treatments for hepatitis B and various cancers. The company offers a rock-solid balance sheet with more than $6.2 billion in cash on the books, and following this week's drop its shares are now trading at nine times next year's earnings estimates, so investors willing to take the long view here could be rewarded with profits down the road.
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The article Is Gilead Sciences, Inc. a Value Stock Following Its Tumble? originally appeared on Fool.com.
Todd Campbell owns shares of Gilead Sciences. Todd owns E.B. Capital Markets, LLC. E.B. Capital's clients may or may not have positions in the companies mentioned. Todd owns Gundalow Advisors, LLC. Gundalow's clients may or may not have positions in the companies mentioned. The Motley Fool recommends Express Scripts, Gilead Sciences, and Vertex Pharmaceuticals. The Motley Fool owns shares of Express Scripts and Gilead Sciences. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days . We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy .
Copyright © 1995 - 2014 The Motley Fool, LLC. All rights reserved. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy .
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | AbbVie's Viekira Pak, which won FDA approval last week, gave them that, as well as a drugmaker eager to offer steep price discounts to grab market share. However, those sky-high projections were deflated whendrug middleman Express Scripts said AbbVie 's new hepatitis C drug, Viekira Pak, would be the exclusive treatment for genotype 1 patients covered by its drug formulary, a ranking system used by healthcare payers to decide which drugs they will cover. AbbVie cut a deal with Express Scripts that makes Viekira Pak the exclusive hepatitis C treatment on the pharmacy benefits manager's formulary -- essentially shutting out Harvoni for the 25 million patients covered by plans that rely on that formulary. | However, those sky-high projections were deflated whendrug middleman Express Scripts said AbbVie 's new hepatitis C drug, Viekira Pak, would be the exclusive treatment for genotype 1 patients covered by its drug formulary, a ranking system used by healthcare payers to decide which drugs they will cover. AbbVie cut a deal with Express Scripts that makes Viekira Pak the exclusive hepatitis C treatment on the pharmacy benefits manager's formulary -- essentially shutting out Harvoni for the 25 million patients covered by plans that rely on that formulary. AbbVie's Viekira Pak, which won FDA approval last week, gave them that, as well as a drugmaker eager to offer steep price discounts to grab market share. | However, those sky-high projections were deflated whendrug middleman Express Scripts said AbbVie 's new hepatitis C drug, Viekira Pak, would be the exclusive treatment for genotype 1 patients covered by its drug formulary, a ranking system used by healthcare payers to decide which drugs they will cover. AbbVie's Viekira Pak, which won FDA approval last week, gave them that, as well as a drugmaker eager to offer steep price discounts to grab market share. AbbVie cut a deal with Express Scripts that makes Viekira Pak the exclusive hepatitis C treatment on the pharmacy benefits manager's formulary -- essentially shutting out Harvoni for the 25 million patients covered by plans that rely on that formulary. | However, those sky-high projections were deflated whendrug middleman Express Scripts said AbbVie 's new hepatitis C drug, Viekira Pak, would be the exclusive treatment for genotype 1 patients covered by its drug formulary, a ranking system used by healthcare payers to decide which drugs they will cover. AbbVie's Viekira Pak, which won FDA approval last week, gave them that, as well as a drugmaker eager to offer steep price discounts to grab market share. AbbVie cut a deal with Express Scripts that makes Viekira Pak the exclusive hepatitis C treatment on the pharmacy benefits manager's formulary -- essentially shutting out Harvoni for the 25 million patients covered by plans that rely on that formulary. | a692aa1a-a5a6-4235-8c8b-7118cdac2082 |
27192.0 | 2014-12-29 00:00:00 UTC | 3 Biotech Stocks That Could Double in 2015 | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/3-biotech-stocks-could-double-2015-2014-12-29 | nan | nan | Few industries offer the promise and pitfalls of biotechnology. Clinical wins and losses can lead to extraordinary stock gains or falls that make the sector best suited for only the most risk-tolerant investor. However, for investors willing to take on that risk, our Motley Fool contributors believe these three biotech stocks could offer significant opportunities in the coming year.
Brian Orelli : If you want a biotech that can double in a year, you need to look for small companies that carry fairly lowexpectations. There's nothing wrong with owning high-growth companies like Gilead Sciences , but since everyone expects its hepatitis C drugs to be instant blockbusters, the sales are already priced in, making it highly unlikely the company's stock will double next year.
Unfortunately, companies with low expectations have high failure rates because investors are voting with their buy button. If there's a high likelihood of a binary event turning out positive, investors will bid up the stock and the return will be lower. The high failure rate increases the risk of owning these companies with high potential returns. There are no free lunches in the biotech sector.
Investors left Exelixis for dead after its thyroid cancer drug, Cometriq, failed to show an effect in prostate cancer patients, a much larger market. The company started this year with a market cap of about $1 billion; it's now near $250 million.
Exelixis still has two more shots on goal for Cometriq. The drug is in phase 3 trials for kidney and liver cancer. The kidney cancer trial is scheduled to read out in the second quarter of 2015. If the results are positive, it's not hard to see the company valued at $500 million, double where it is now.
If Cometriq fails to show an effect in kidney cancer, investors will write off its chances in liver cancer and the valuation will probably plummet further. Fortunately for Exelixis, it has some rights to Roche 's cobimetinib, which it licensed to the pharma, which should deaden the blow a little.But only a little.
LeoSun : Shares of Geron plunged earlier this year after a full clinical hold was placed on imetelstat, its only pipeline candidate. Imetelstat is a potential treatment for myelofibrosis, a bone marrow disorder that disrupts the body's production of red blood cells.
Yet the stock bounced back in November on several big catalysts. The hold was lifted, Geron presented data showing that seven patients (21.2% of all patients in its trial) achieved a partial or complete response, and it signed a licensing deal with Johnson & Johnson 's Janssen unit. The deal entitles Geron to $935 million in milestone payments and "low double-digit" royalties if imetelstat is commercialized -- a big boost for a company that only reported $1.3 million in revenue (licenses and royalties) last year.
The only dedicated treatment for myelofibrosis is Incyte 's Jakafi, which targets a protein mutation/pathway linked to the disease. However, it targets both healthy and infected cells, which can reduce blood cell production. Imetelstat, which inhibits telomerase (an enzyme that aids in rapid cell division) might be considered a solid alternative treatment if approved. Janssen will conduct four midstage trials for imetelstat -- two for myelofibrosis and two for other blood disorders -- which could greatly expand imetelstat's reach.
Based on these catalysts, Geron might bounce back to the $5-plus range over the next few months. But let's be clear -- Geron is still a very risky one-drug play that could soar or plunge on any additional news about imetelstat.
George Budwell : NPS Pharmaceuticals is a rare-disease drugmaker that I believe could see its stock price double next year. If the company gets the green light from the Food and Drug Administration for its hormone replacement therapy, Natpara, indicated as a treatment for hypoparathyroidism on or before Jan. 24, 2015, the Street expects the company's earnings to grow by a staggering 4,450% next year.
Shire has apparently noticed NPS's strong growth prospects, reopening talks to buy the drugmaker, after its own deal to merge with AbbVie fell through.
A buyout would probably come at a huge premium compared to today's price. For example, Shire paid a 64% premium to acquire orphan-drug specialist ViroPharma in 2013, and BioMarin recently doled out a similar premium (62%) for Prosensa and its experimental Duchenne muscular dystrophy therapy, despite the drug having failed a a late-stage trial.
Given that NPS has arguably more upside potential than either ViroPharma or Prosensa, and certainly comes with less risk than Prosensa, its shares should command an even higher premium via a buyout. So stay tuned!
1 great healthcare stock to buy for 2015 and beyond
Healthcare stocks soared in 2014, and 2015 is shaping up to be another great year for stocks. But if you want to make sure you're buying one of the best healthcare stocks, you need to know where to start. That's why The Motley Fool's chief investment officer just published a brand-new research report that reveals his top stock for the year ahead. To get the full story on this year's stock -- completely free -- simply click here .
The article 3 Biotech Stocks That Could Double in 2015 originally appeared on Fool.com.
Brian Orelli has no position in any stocks mentioned. George Budwell owns shares of AbbVie Inc. and NPS Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Leo Sun has no position in any stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool recommends Exelixis and Johnson & Johnson. The Motley Fool owns shares of Johnson & Johnson. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days . We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy .
Copyright © 1995 - 2014 The Motley Fool, LLC. All rights reserved. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy .
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | Shire has apparently noticed NPS's strong growth prospects, reopening talks to buy the drugmaker, after its own deal to merge with AbbVie fell through. George Budwell owns shares of AbbVie Inc. and NPS Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Leo Sun has no position in any stocks mentioned. Clinical wins and losses can lead to extraordinary stock gains or falls that make the sector best suited for only the most risk-tolerant investor. | George Budwell owns shares of AbbVie Inc. and NPS Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Leo Sun has no position in any stocks mentioned. Shire has apparently noticed NPS's strong growth prospects, reopening talks to buy the drugmaker, after its own deal to merge with AbbVie fell through. The high failure rate increases the risk of owning these companies with high potential returns. | Shire has apparently noticed NPS's strong growth prospects, reopening talks to buy the drugmaker, after its own deal to merge with AbbVie fell through. George Budwell owns shares of AbbVie Inc. and NPS Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Leo Sun has no position in any stocks mentioned. However, for investors willing to take on that risk, our Motley Fool contributors believe these three biotech stocks could offer significant opportunities in the coming year. | Shire has apparently noticed NPS's strong growth prospects, reopening talks to buy the drugmaker, after its own deal to merge with AbbVie fell through. George Budwell owns shares of AbbVie Inc. and NPS Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Leo Sun has no position in any stocks mentioned. However, for investors willing to take on that risk, our Motley Fool contributors believe these three biotech stocks could offer significant opportunities in the coming year. | c57ae18d-0398-400a-934f-a42fe8cd5304 |
27193.0 | 2014-12-28 00:00:00 UTC | Billionaires Are Buying More of These 3 Stocks | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/billionaires-are-buying-more-these-3-stocks-2014-12-28 | nan | nan | Want to know what stocks the biggest hedge funds in the country are buying? The numbers are in, and the results will surprise you.
The numbers
Each quarter, companies are required to disclose what stocks they've been buying and selling, and the Hedge Fund Tracker from S&P Capital IQ monitors what the 10 largest hedge funds -- with nearly $300 billion in total assets -- have been doing.
In the third quarter, a long with Actavis and AbbVie -- which have been previously discussed -- the funds grew their existing positions in eBay , Pioneer Natural Resources , and MasterCard , as shown in the chart below:
Source: Source: S&P Capital IQ Hedge Fund Tracker.
And what made the funds buy even larger stakes in those firms? Let's find out.
Icahn wins again
Apart from Actavis and AbbVie, the most in-demand company was eBay, and it doesn't take long to figure out why. Earlier this year, activist invest Carl Icahn began amassing a massive stake in the e-commerce giant, and a proxy fight ensued, as there was a continual bickering back and forth between Icahn and eBay's leadership.
Source: www.insidermonkey.com .
But in April, the day it was revealed the fight was resolved -- eBay honored Ichan's request and nominated David Dorman, formerly of AT&T, to its board of directors.
Even though eBay requested its customers change their passwords as a result of a cyberattack, it still announced strong second-quarter results as its revenue jumped 13%.
Yet the biggest news came on the last day of the third quarter, as the company officially announced it would indeed spin off PayPal and the marketplace business of eBay into separate companies, which was one of Icahn's initial requests.
"For more than a decade eBay and PayPal have mutually benefited from being part of one company, creating substantial shareholder value. However, a thorough strategic review with our board shows that keeping eBay and PayPal together beyond 2015 clearly becomes less advantageous to each business strategically and competitively," eBay President and CEO, John Donahoe, said at the time of the announcement. "eBay and PayPal will be sharper and stronger, and more focused and competitive as leading, stand-alone companies in their respective markets."
While we don't know when the hedge funds grew their stakes in eBay (and what will soon be PayPal), one has to think the news of the spin-off of PayPal was a delight to the ears -- and wallets -- of Icahn and his hedge fund friends.
Buying up the barrels
Another popular company among the hedge funds was Pioneer Natural Resources, and Viking Global Investors grew its stake by 66% with a market value of nearly $1.4 billion at the end of the quarter.
What was the reason for the big buy? As fellow Fool contributor Matt DiLallo noted , Pioneer was the "best performing energy stock in the S&P 500 since 2009." Not only that, "its best days could still lie ahead" thanks to its high-margin business and seemingly unlimited growth potential. However, the stock was incredibly expensive relative to its peers, presenting a danger to investors.
Of course, that was then, and this is now, and thanks to plunging oil prices , Pioneer Natural Resources has also seen its stock plunge, falling by more than 25% since the end of September:
While there are still some causes for concern for investors, this sell-off could present a buying opportunity for those with the long-term focus in mind, and it will be curious to see what the hedge funds themselves do.
There are some things money can't buy, but MasterCard isn't one
The final company hedge funds were buying up is none other than MasterCard, and frankly, from an investment perspective, it made a ton of tense.
Source: Flickr / Chris Lim .
Through the first nine months of the year, MasterCard saw its stock price fall by roughly 12%, a far cry from the 6.5% return delivered by the market.
While there were some concerns about new sanctions in Russia, very little about its future business prospects had changed, and the fact that it lagged the market simply didn't make sense.
Throughout the third quarter, MasterCard's valuation dropped, and all signs pointed to it being an attractive investment .
It should come as no surprise that when MasterCard recently announced a terrific third quarter, its stock popped by nearly 10%, which will undoubtedly put smiles on the faces of the hedge funds who unashamedly continued to buy more of the stock.
1 great stock to buy for 2015 and beyond
2015 is shaping up to be another great year for stocks. But if you want to make sure that 2015 is your best investing year ever, you need to know where to start. That's why The Motley Fool's chief investment officer just published a brand-new research report that reveals his top stock for the year ahead. To get the full story on this year's stock -- completely free -- simply click here .
The article Billionaires Are Buying More of These 3 Stocks originally appeared on Fool.com.
Patrick Morris has no position in any stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool recommends eBay and MasterCard. The Motley Fool owns shares of eBay and MasterCard. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days . We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy .
Copyright © 1995 - 2014 The Motley Fool, LLC. All rights reserved. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy .
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | In the third quarter, a long with Actavis and AbbVie -- which have been previously discussed -- the funds grew their existing positions in eBay , Pioneer Natural Resources , and MasterCard , as shown in the chart below: Source: Source: S&P Capital IQ Hedge Fund Tracker. Icahn wins again Apart from Actavis and AbbVie, the most in-demand company was eBay, and it doesn't take long to figure out why. Buying up the barrels Another popular company among the hedge funds was Pioneer Natural Resources, and Viking Global Investors grew its stake by 66% with a market value of nearly $1.4 billion at the end of the quarter. | In the third quarter, a long with Actavis and AbbVie -- which have been previously discussed -- the funds grew their existing positions in eBay , Pioneer Natural Resources , and MasterCard , as shown in the chart below: Source: Source: S&P Capital IQ Hedge Fund Tracker. Icahn wins again Apart from Actavis and AbbVie, the most in-demand company was eBay, and it doesn't take long to figure out why. Buying up the barrels Another popular company among the hedge funds was Pioneer Natural Resources, and Viking Global Investors grew its stake by 66% with a market value of nearly $1.4 billion at the end of the quarter. | In the third quarter, a long with Actavis and AbbVie -- which have been previously discussed -- the funds grew their existing positions in eBay , Pioneer Natural Resources , and MasterCard , as shown in the chart below: Source: Source: S&P Capital IQ Hedge Fund Tracker. Icahn wins again Apart from Actavis and AbbVie, the most in-demand company was eBay, and it doesn't take long to figure out why. The numbers Each quarter, companies are required to disclose what stocks they've been buying and selling, and the Hedge Fund Tracker from S&P Capital IQ monitors what the 10 largest hedge funds -- with nearly $300 billion in total assets -- have been doing. | In the third quarter, a long with Actavis and AbbVie -- which have been previously discussed -- the funds grew their existing positions in eBay , Pioneer Natural Resources , and MasterCard , as shown in the chart below: Source: Source: S&P Capital IQ Hedge Fund Tracker. Icahn wins again Apart from Actavis and AbbVie, the most in-demand company was eBay, and it doesn't take long to figure out why. Want to know what stocks the biggest hedge funds in the country are buying? | 37316979-7939-4f24-b6f9-2bbd2cba88bc |
27194.0 | 2014-12-28 00:00:00 UTC | Should AbbVie Inc. and Gilead Sciences, Inc. Fear This Biotech Instead of Each Other? | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/should-abbvie-inc-and-gilead-sciences-inc-fear-biotech-instead-each-other-2014-12-28 | nan | nan | Source: Gilead Sciences via Google Maps.
Gilead Sciences shares tumbled following the approval of AbbVie 's new hepatitis C drug Viekira Pak, but both companies may find that their longer-term battle isn't with each other, but with Achillion Pharmaceuticals , a far smaller company that is developing a new generation of hepatitis C drugs, including ACH-3102, which is putting up impressive results in small mid-stage trials.
Shifting focus
By delivering cure rates above 90% and by being the first oral treatment for hepatitis C, Gilead Sciences' Sovaldi revolutionized disease treatment when it was launched last December. In October, Gilead Sciences next-generation hepatitis C drug Harvoni built on Sovaldi's success by offering genotype 1 cure rates as high as 99% and by ridding the use of side-effect-laden peginterferon and ribavirin from treatment regimens. And similarly impressive cure rates posted by AbbVie's multi-drug combination therapy Viekira Pak set the stage for a battle for hepatitis C market share in 2015.
That battle over prescription market share is likely to be heated as payers force the two companies to compete on price. AbbVie has already dealt the first blow by inking a deal with drug management company Express Scripts that makes Viekira Pak the exclusive treatment for genotype 1 patients covered by Express Scripts' preferred formulary. That decision, which affects roughly 175,000 of the nation's 3 million hepatitis C patients, could mean billions of dollars or more in sales shift away from Gilead Sciences to AbbVie in 2015. AbbVie's deal with Express Scripts includes a steep, undisclosed price cut to its $83,000 list price, but even if prices were cut in half, it would still cost $7.3 billion to treat all of the 175,000 patients covered by Express Scripts formulary.
It's uncertain how Gilead Sciences will respond to AbbVie, but perhaps both companies will be focusing more attention on Achillion than each other longer term. That's because Achillion is developing ACH-3102, a next-generation NS5A inhibitor drug that, when matched up with Gilead Sciences' Sovaldi, may outperform Harvoni and AbbVie's Viekira Pak in reducing treatment duration.
In November, Achillion reported that 100% of the 12 patients receiving ACH-3102 alongside Sovaldi for eight weeks were still disease-free 12 weeks after stopping treatment. That could prove to be a significant advantage over AbbVie's Viekira Pak, which must be taken over 12 weeks, and Harvoni, which must be taken by roughly 60% of patients over 12 weeks. Harvoni can be dosed over an eight-week period, but to qualify, genotype 1 patients must have never received prior treatment, can't have liver cirrhosis, and must have a viral load of less than 6 million IU/ml. Since 9 of the 12 patients cured by Achillion's ACH-3102 combined with Sovaldi had viral loads north of 6 million IU/ml, it would suggest that Achillion's mashup could reduce treatment duration to 8 weeks for most -- if not all -- genotype 1 patients.
That's pretty remarkable, but what may be even more remarkable are results from a trial studying ACH-3102 alongside Sovaldi over six weeks, rather than eight weeks. That study is ongoing, but Achillion reported interim results showing that 100% of the 12 patients receiving ACH-3102 and Sovaldi remained functionally cured four weeks after stopping the six-week course of treatment. If those results hold up 12 weeks after stopping treatment, which is the gold standard for achieving a functional cure, and are duplicated in larger trials, it could mean Achillion has a best-in-class therapy.
Work remains to be done
Since Achillion's results were from small mid-stage trials, they shouldn't be viewed through rose-colored glasses. Any number of things could derail ACH-3102 in larger studies. Regardless, ACH-3102's mid-stage results appear impressive and suggest that the next-generation battle over hepatitis C won't be fought over roughly equivalent cure rates, but instead over treatment duration. To that end, Achillion is also developing its own Sovaldi alternative that can be paired with ACH-3102 instead; however, that drug is still in phase 1 trials. Admittedly, Achillion has a lot of work ahead of it to show that ACH-3102 is a better solution than Gilead Sciences Harvoni or AbbVie's Viekira Pak, and that means shares are speculative and best suited for risk-tolerant investors. However, for those willing to accept the possibility of a late-stage failure, Achillion may be an intriguing investment.
One great healthcare stock to buy for 2015 and beyond
Healthcare stocks soared in 2014, and 2015 is shaping up to be another great year for stocks. But if you want to make sure you're buying one of the best healthcare stocks, you need to know where to start. That's why The Motley Fool's chief investment officer just published a brand-new research report that reveals his top stock for the year ahead. To get the full story on this year's stock -- completely free -- simply click here .
The article Should AbbVie Inc. and Gilead Sciences, Inc. Fear This Biotech Instead of Each Other? originally appeared on Fool.com.
Todd Campbell owns shares of Gilead Sciences and Achillion. Todd owns E.B. Capital Markets, LLC. E.B. Capital's clients may or may not have positions in the companies mentioned. Todd owns Gundalow Advisors, LLC. Gundalow's clients do not have positions in the companies mentioned . The Motley Fool recommends Express Scripts and Gilead Sciences. The Motley Fool owns shares of Express Scripts and Gilead Sciences. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days . We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy .
Copyright © 1995 - 2014 The Motley Fool, LLC. All rights reserved. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy .
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | That's because Achillion is developing ACH-3102, a next-generation NS5A inhibitor drug that, when matched up with Gilead Sciences' Sovaldi, may outperform Harvoni and AbbVie's Viekira Pak in reducing treatment duration. Admittedly, Achillion has a lot of work ahead of it to show that ACH-3102 is a better solution than Gilead Sciences Harvoni or AbbVie's Viekira Pak, and that means shares are speculative and best suited for risk-tolerant investors. Gilead Sciences shares tumbled following the approval of AbbVie 's new hepatitis C drug Viekira Pak, but both companies may find that their longer-term battle isn't with each other, but with Achillion Pharmaceuticals , a far smaller company that is developing a new generation of hepatitis C drugs, including ACH-3102, which is putting up impressive results in small mid-stage trials. | AbbVie has already dealt the first blow by inking a deal with drug management company Express Scripts that makes Viekira Pak the exclusive treatment for genotype 1 patients covered by Express Scripts' preferred formulary. Gilead Sciences shares tumbled following the approval of AbbVie 's new hepatitis C drug Viekira Pak, but both companies may find that their longer-term battle isn't with each other, but with Achillion Pharmaceuticals , a far smaller company that is developing a new generation of hepatitis C drugs, including ACH-3102, which is putting up impressive results in small mid-stage trials. And similarly impressive cure rates posted by AbbVie's multi-drug combination therapy Viekira Pak set the stage for a battle for hepatitis C market share in 2015. | Gilead Sciences shares tumbled following the approval of AbbVie 's new hepatitis C drug Viekira Pak, but both companies may find that their longer-term battle isn't with each other, but with Achillion Pharmaceuticals , a far smaller company that is developing a new generation of hepatitis C drugs, including ACH-3102, which is putting up impressive results in small mid-stage trials. AbbVie has already dealt the first blow by inking a deal with drug management company Express Scripts that makes Viekira Pak the exclusive treatment for genotype 1 patients covered by Express Scripts' preferred formulary. That's because Achillion is developing ACH-3102, a next-generation NS5A inhibitor drug that, when matched up with Gilead Sciences' Sovaldi, may outperform Harvoni and AbbVie's Viekira Pak in reducing treatment duration. | Gilead Sciences shares tumbled following the approval of AbbVie 's new hepatitis C drug Viekira Pak, but both companies may find that their longer-term battle isn't with each other, but with Achillion Pharmaceuticals , a far smaller company that is developing a new generation of hepatitis C drugs, including ACH-3102, which is putting up impressive results in small mid-stage trials. And similarly impressive cure rates posted by AbbVie's multi-drug combination therapy Viekira Pak set the stage for a battle for hepatitis C market share in 2015. AbbVie has already dealt the first blow by inking a deal with drug management company Express Scripts that makes Viekira Pak the exclusive treatment for genotype 1 patients covered by Express Scripts' preferred formulary. | 8a3c2aac-9833-4221-80ff-4884d5b4e3ee |
27195.0 | 2014-12-27 00:00:00 UTC | 3 Stocks Poised for Eye-Popping Gains in 2015 | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/3-stocks-poised-eye-popping-gains-2015-2014-12-27 | nan | nan | With 2015 shaping up to be another banner year for the industry, I think investors would be wise to have at least a few biotechs on their watchlist. Gilead Sciences , Orexigen Therapeutics , and Prothena Corporation plc are three companies in particular with huge upside potential next year, making them good watchlist candidates. Here's why.
Source: Gilead Sciences
Gilead looks undervalued
Gilead Sciences grabbed headlines this year with the record-breaking sale of its hepatitis C drug Sovaldi and the commercial launch of its once-daily formulation of Sovaldi plus ledipasvir called Harvoni. In 2014, these two drugs alone are expected to haul in $11 to $12 billion in sales, helping the company to more than double its 2013 revenue. Looking ahead, Gilead's HCV franchise should generate around $10 billion per year, on average, for the next decade.
Aside from its new HCV products, Gilead is also seeing strong growth in its core HIV business, mostly due to the four-in-one combo drug Stribild. Stribild sales, for example, grew by 128% to $328 million in the third-quarter, compared to the same period a year ago.
Despite this stock's 44% gain year-to-date, Gilead is still trading at a highly compressed forward price-to-earnings ratio at 10.7 -- less than half the sector average.
What's apparently been holding this stock back is fear over a price war with AbbVie and its newly approved HCV therapy Viekira Pak. Now that Viekira Pak's 12-week course of treatment price of $83,319 has been announced isn't exactly a huge discount compared to Harvoni's $94,500 price tag, I think greed will start to trump fear in the coming weeks.
While Gilead's HCV and HIV franchises provide ample reasons to invest in this top biotech, I believe the company's foray into the oncology space with its blood-cancer drug Zydelig and its experimental monoclonal antibody Simtuzumab -- indicated for several diseases with staggering commercial potential -- are being downright ignored by the market. In short, we could see Gilead finally command a rich premium in 2015 due to its dominant positions in HCV and HIV, as well as its under-appreciated clinical pipeline.
Source: Wall Street Journal
Orexigen launches new diet pill
Orexigen and its marketing partner Takeda are attempting to finally open up the massive weight loss market that their competitors, Arena Pharmaceuticals and VIVUS , have so far failed to capture with their respective diet pills.
Despite tens of millions of severely obese potential patients within the U.S., Arena and VIVUS' FDA approved weight loss drugs, Belviq and Qsymia, will probably generate only about $100 million in combined sales this year.
Orexigen's pill, Contrave, has two advantages over its competitors that are already paying dividends in terms of capturing market share. First, Contrave is the only FDA approved obesity drug with a large amount of data on cardiovascular outcomes. Interim analysis from the so-called "Light Study", which is onoing and won't report final results until 2017, was good enough for the FDA to approve the drug and European regulators to recommend approval. Neither Belviq nor Qsymia appear to be on track to gain approval in Europe anytime soon, largely due to outstanding questions regarding their cardiovascular safety profiles.
The second advantage Contrave has is that Takeda has put a huge amount of marketing muscle behind its commercial launch, with a reported 900 sales reps dedicated to the U.S. market. This effort dwarfs the marketing power behind either Belviq or Qsymia.
Contrave should gain European approval by the second-quarter of 2015, and Orexigen looks poised to take the lion's share of the obesity market going forward, making it a stock to keep an eye on next year.
Prothena is a tiny biotech with big plans
If you've heard of Prothena before, you are definitely in the minority. This small-cap biotech, though, probably won't remain under the radar in 2015.
Prothena is an Irish biopharma with a potent pipeline aimed at treating diseases such as Alzheimers, Parkinsons, and Amyloid Light-chain amyloidosis (AL amyloidosis).
What makes this company a watchlist candidate for 2015, to me, is its ongoing late-stage trial for NEOD001, indicated for AL amyloidosis with cardiac involvement.
Following an impressive early stage study, management decided to accelerate the drug's development by pushing it straight into a late-stage, randomized, double-blind trial aimed at gaining global regulatory approvals. The FDA also granted NEOD001 the coveted "Fast Track Status" earlier this month, meaning that a regulatory review could begin, in part, before this pivotal trial is even completed.
With an interim analysis likely before the end of 2015 and a market cap currently at a fraction of NEOD001's projected peak sales, Prothena is certainly worth a deeper look by risk-tolerant investors.
Are any of these stocks buys right now?
I think Gilead is a great name to own, and is definitely less risky than either Orexigen or Prothena. That's why I've continually bought this stock over the last few years. Orexigen and Prothena, by contrast, are worth watching for the reasons outlined above. But I won't pull the trigger on these stocks until they appear to be solidly on track toward becoming long-term winners.
1 great health care stock to buy for 2015 and beyond
Healthcare stocks soared in 2014, and 2015 is shaping up to be another great year for stocks. But if you want to make sure you're buying one of the best health care stocks, you need to know where to start. That's why The Motley Fool's chief investment officer just published a brand-new research report that reveals his top stock for the year ahead. To get the full story on this year's stock -- completely free -- simply click here .
The article 3 Stocks Poised for Eye-Popping Gains in 2015 originally appeared on Fool.com.
George Budwell owns shares of AbbVie and Gilead Sciences. The Motley Fool recommends Gilead Sciences. The Motley Fool owns shares of Gilead Sciences. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days . We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy .
Copyright © 1995 - 2014 The Motley Fool, LLC. All rights reserved. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy .
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | What's apparently been holding this stock back is fear over a price war with AbbVie and its newly approved HCV therapy Viekira Pak. George Budwell owns shares of AbbVie and Gilead Sciences. Gilead Sciences , Orexigen Therapeutics , and Prothena Corporation plc are three companies in particular with huge upside potential next year, making them good watchlist candidates. | What's apparently been holding this stock back is fear over a price war with AbbVie and its newly approved HCV therapy Viekira Pak. George Budwell owns shares of AbbVie and Gilead Sciences. Looking ahead, Gilead's HCV franchise should generate around $10 billion per year, on average, for the next decade. | What's apparently been holding this stock back is fear over a price war with AbbVie and its newly approved HCV therapy Viekira Pak. George Budwell owns shares of AbbVie and Gilead Sciences. Source: Gilead Sciences Gilead looks undervalued Gilead Sciences grabbed headlines this year with the record-breaking sale of its hepatitis C drug Sovaldi and the commercial launch of its once-daily formulation of Sovaldi plus ledipasvir called Harvoni. | What's apparently been holding this stock back is fear over a price war with AbbVie and its newly approved HCV therapy Viekira Pak. George Budwell owns shares of AbbVie and Gilead Sciences. Despite tens of millions of severely obese potential patients within the U.S., Arena and VIVUS' FDA approved weight loss drugs, Belviq and Qsymia, will probably generate only about $100 million in combined sales this year. | f4d10b70-75af-433d-b98d-c740cde99674 |
27196.0 | 2014-12-26 00:00:00 UTC | Novartis' Alcon's Travatan Obtains Label Expansion in the EU - Analyst Blog | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/novartis-alcons-travatan-obtains-label-expansion-in-the-eu-analyst-blog-2014-12-26 | nan | nan | Investors in the pharma/biotech sector eagerly wait for pipeline updates as they play an important role in deciding whether or not to invest in a particular company. These updates provide information on experimental drugs and at times give an insight on the commercial potential of the candidate once it is successfully developed and commercialized.
Novartis AG ( NVS ) recently announced that its ophthalmology arm Alcon was granted a label expansion by the European Commission for its glaucoma treatment, Travatan (40µg/mL travoprost) Eye Drops Solution.
Travatan is now approved in Europe to reduce elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) in patients aged two months to less than 18 years, with ocular hypertension or pediatric glaucoma.
We note that Travatan was already approved in Europe to decrease elevated intraocular pressure in adult patients with ocular hypertension or open-angle glaucoma.
The EU approval was based on positive results from a 12-week, multicenter, double-masked, randomized, parallel-group phase III study.
The primary efficacy endpoint was to measure the change in IOP from baseline at week 12 of the study. Results showed reductions in IOP as early as the second week of treatment, which was consistently maintained throughout the study period.
The approval of this new pediatric indication further complements Alcon's broad treatment portfolio in glaucoma and provides a new important prostaglandin-based therapy for young patients.
We note that Alcon offers a broad range of treatment options such as Simbrinza, Travatan, Duotrav, Azarga, Azopt and Izba for patients with glaucoma to lower elevated IOP.
We are impressed by Novartis' efforts to realign its portfolio in order to focus on its eye care and generics businesses. The proposed acquisition of the oncology products arm from GlaxoSmithKline ( GSK ) and divestment of its Vaccines business will broaden the company's portfolio and streamline its business, besides contributing immensely to the top line.
Novartis currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). Some better-ranked large-cap pharmas include Allergan ( AGN ) and AbbVie ( ABBV ), each carrying a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy).
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | Some better-ranked large-cap pharmas include Allergan ( AGN ) and AbbVie ( ABBV ), each carrying a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). Click to get this free report ALLERGAN INC (AGN): Free Stock Analysis Report NOVARTIS AG-ADR (NVS): Free Stock Analysis Report GLAXOSMITHKLINE (GSK): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Novartis AG ( NVS ) recently announced that its ophthalmology arm Alcon was granted a label expansion by the European Commission for its glaucoma treatment, Travatan (40µg/mL travoprost) Eye Drops Solution. | Click to get this free report ALLERGAN INC (AGN): Free Stock Analysis Report NOVARTIS AG-ADR (NVS): Free Stock Analysis Report GLAXOSMITHKLINE (GSK): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Some better-ranked large-cap pharmas include Allergan ( AGN ) and AbbVie ( ABBV ), each carrying a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). We note that Travatan was already approved in Europe to decrease elevated intraocular pressure in adult patients with ocular hypertension or open-angle glaucoma. | Click to get this free report ALLERGAN INC (AGN): Free Stock Analysis Report NOVARTIS AG-ADR (NVS): Free Stock Analysis Report GLAXOSMITHKLINE (GSK): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Some better-ranked large-cap pharmas include Allergan ( AGN ) and AbbVie ( ABBV ), each carrying a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). Travatan is now approved in Europe to reduce elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) in patients aged two months to less than 18 years, with ocular hypertension or pediatric glaucoma. | Some better-ranked large-cap pharmas include Allergan ( AGN ) and AbbVie ( ABBV ), each carrying a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). Click to get this free report ALLERGAN INC (AGN): Free Stock Analysis Report NOVARTIS AG-ADR (NVS): Free Stock Analysis Report GLAXOSMITHKLINE (GSK): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Results showed reductions in IOP as early as the second week of treatment, which was consistently maintained throughout the study period. | fdb80385-2348-4e99-ac4f-1a4c822bbb3c |
27197.0 | 2014-12-26 00:00:00 UTC | Roche' (RHHBY) Blood Cancer Drug Gazyva's Label Updated - Analyst Blog | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/roche-rhhby-blood-cancer-drug-gazyvas-label-updated-analyst-blog-2014-12-26 | nan | nan | Roche ( RHHBY ) announced that the FDA has approved a supplemental biologics license application (sBLA) for its blood cancer drug, Gazyva in combination with chlorambucil chemotherapy in patients suffering from treatment-naïve chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL).
The approval of the sBLA adds positive data from stage II of the CLL11 study to its label, wherein it was observed that Gazyva plus chlorambucil showed significant improvement across multiple clinical endpoints when compared head-to-head with Rituxan plus chlorambucil.
The approval also came on the complete response and minimal residual disease data from the above mentioned study along with overall survival data from stage I of the study, which compared Gazyva plus chlorambucil to chlorambucil alone and Rituxan plus chlorambucil to chlorambucil alone.
We remind investors that Gazyva had been approved by the FDA for use in combination with chlorambucil for previously untreated CLL on Nov 1, 2013 under its Breakthrough Therapy designation.
The drug was also approved for the same indication by the European Commission in Jul 2014 under the brand name Gazyvaro.
Gazyva generated sales of $32 million in the first nine months of 2014. Roche is evaluating Gazyva for various types of blood cancers such as non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, which is currently in multiple phase III studies for the same indication.
We are encouraged by Roche's performance so far in 2014. The oncology portfolio looks solid as ever and we expect further traction. We are also impressed by the company's efforts to grow its portfolio beyond oncology to immunology and ophthalmology. However, generic competition for Xeloda and Pegasys will negatively impact sales in the coming quarters.
Roche currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). Some better-ranked stocks in the broader health care sector include AbbVie ( ABBV ), Allergan ( AGN ) and Biodel Inc. ( BIOD ). While Biodel carries a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), the other two carry a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy).
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | Some better-ranked stocks in the broader health care sector include AbbVie ( ABBV ), Allergan ( AGN ) and Biodel Inc. ( BIOD ). Click to get this free report ROCHE HLDG LTD (RHHBY): Free Stock Analysis Report ALLERGAN INC (AGN): Free Stock Analysis Report BIODEL INC (BIOD): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Roche ( RHHBY ) announced that the FDA has approved a supplemental biologics license application (sBLA) for its blood cancer drug, Gazyva in combination with chlorambucil chemotherapy in patients suffering from treatment-naïve chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). | Click to get this free report ROCHE HLDG LTD (RHHBY): Free Stock Analysis Report ALLERGAN INC (AGN): Free Stock Analysis Report BIODEL INC (BIOD): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Some better-ranked stocks in the broader health care sector include AbbVie ( ABBV ), Allergan ( AGN ) and Biodel Inc. ( BIOD ). While Biodel carries a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), the other two carry a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). | Click to get this free report ROCHE HLDG LTD (RHHBY): Free Stock Analysis Report ALLERGAN INC (AGN): Free Stock Analysis Report BIODEL INC (BIOD): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Some better-ranked stocks in the broader health care sector include AbbVie ( ABBV ), Allergan ( AGN ) and Biodel Inc. ( BIOD ). Roche ( RHHBY ) announced that the FDA has approved a supplemental biologics license application (sBLA) for its blood cancer drug, Gazyva in combination with chlorambucil chemotherapy in patients suffering from treatment-naïve chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). | Click to get this free report ROCHE HLDG LTD (RHHBY): Free Stock Analysis Report ALLERGAN INC (AGN): Free Stock Analysis Report BIODEL INC (BIOD): Free Stock Analysis Report ABBVIE INC (ABBV): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Some better-ranked stocks in the broader health care sector include AbbVie ( ABBV ), Allergan ( AGN ) and Biodel Inc. ( BIOD ). Roche ( RHHBY ) announced that the FDA has approved a supplemental biologics license application (sBLA) for its blood cancer drug, Gazyva in combination with chlorambucil chemotherapy in patients suffering from treatment-naïve chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). | 60871d8d-2af7-42c7-ae01-d1a09fbb428c |
27198.0 | 2014-12-24 00:00:00 UTC | The Hepatitis C Drug Developer That Crushed Gilead Sciences, Inc. in 2014 (Hint: It's Not AbbVie) | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/hepatitis-c-drug-developer-crushed-gilead-sciences-inc-2014-hint-its-not-abbvie-2014-12-24 | nan | nan | For shareholders of Gilead Sciences it's practically been a dream year . Shares rose close to 40%, tacking on roughly $45 billion in market value, following the successful approval and launch of oral hepatitis C drugs Sovaldi and Harvoni.
Maybe Merck with its combo of MK-5172 and MK-8742? Not quite. Bristol-Myers Squibb with daclatasvir? Nope! Johnson & Johnson with Olysio? Still not it!
Give up?
With a gain year-to-date of 328% -- that's three hundred and twenty eight percent -- clinical-stage HCV-focused Achillion Pharmaceuticals absolutely crushed Gilead in total return this year. Amazingly, it did so without having a single product on pharmacy shelves.
Why Achillion scorched higher in 2014
There are a number of reasons why Achillion shares have found new life in 2014 after struggling mightily in the previous year.
First, hepatitis C is a global disease that affects 150 million people according to the World Health Organization. Even Gilead, AbbVie, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Merck, and Achillion combined couldn't treat everyone in a matter of just one or two years. In just the first nine months since the entry of Sovaldi, Gilead managed to treat just 117,000 patients. Therefore the implication is the market potential exists for a handful of players, including Achillion, to prosper.
Source: Achillion Pharmaceuticals, June 2014.
Secondly, the results for Achillion's NS5A inhibitor ACH-3102 have been fantastic thus far, even if the patient pool is small. In November Achillion announced a combination study involving ACH-3102 and Gilead's Sovaldi that was administered without ribavirin to 12 genotype 1 patients. As presented at the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases annual meeting, all 12 patients experienced a sustained virologic response (i.e., no detectable levels of disease) after a 12-week treatment course.
Lastly, Achillion has received what I refer to as a "buyers boost" since all of its complementary clinical-stage rivals have now been bought out. Gilead Sciences purchased Pharmasset in 2011, netting it Sovaldi; Bristol-Myers Squibb purchased Inhibitex and got burned badly on that deal since its lead drug wound up being scrapped for safety reasons; and Merck gobbled up Idenix Pharmaceuticals for a 239% premium from its prior-day closing price. The opinion among investors is that Achillion is next to be purchased. Considering its steady phase 2 combination results and the massive scope of the HCV market, the idea of a buyout isn't out of the question.
Caveat emptor
While Achillion was an absolute superstar in 2014, there's a chance it may not fare as well next year.
Source: Flickr user Eugene Zemlyanskly.
For starters, it's never a good idea to allow a rumor to be the basis of your investment thesis. Although many of its peers have been bought out, there are no guarantees that Achillion will find a suitor willing to pay a premium for ACH-3102 and the company's remaining HCV pipeline. Many large pharmaceutical companies are already working on HCV products of their own, meaning Achillion's pipeline may not be needed. If the buyout rumors surrounding Achillion die down, its share price could falter.
Also, Achilion's had a shaky past with the Food and Drug Administration. Achillion's sovaprevir wound up on clinical hold by the FDA for nearly a year due to safety concerns, echoing similar problems experienced by rival Idenix. It's concerning that the company has yet to successfully get any of its developing drugs past phrase 2.
That being said, Achillion is clearly a name to watch going forward, especially if ACH-3102 meets or exceeds current expectations. I, for one, won't be looking for a repeat performance in 2015 and much prefer Gilead Sciences here. Still, there's big move potential for both buyers and short-sellers that should command the attention of Wall Street and investors.
1 great healthcare stock to buy for 2015 and beyond
Healthcare stocks soared in 2014, and 2015 is shaping up to be another great year for stocks. But if you want to make sure you're buying one of the best healthcare stocks, you need to know where to start. That's why The Motley Fool's chief investment officer just published a brand-new research report that reveals his top stock for the year ahead. To get the full story on this year's stock -- completely free -- simply click here .
The article The Hepatitis C Drug Developer That Crushed Gilead Sciences, Inc. in 2014 (Hint: It's Not AbbVie) originally appeared on Fool.com.
Sean Williams has no material interest in any companies mentioned in this article. You can follow him on CAPS under the screen nameTMFUltraLong, track every pick he makes under the screen nameTrackUltraLong, and check him out on Twitter, where he goes by the handle@TMFUltraLong.The Motley Fool owns shares of, and recommends Gilead Sciences and Johnson & Johnson. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days . We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy .
Copyright © 1995 - 2014 The Motley Fool, LLC. All rights reserved. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy .
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | Even Gilead, AbbVie, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Merck, and Achillion combined couldn't treat everyone in a matter of just one or two years. The article The Hepatitis C Drug Developer That Crushed Gilead Sciences, Inc. in 2014 (Hint: It's Not AbbVie) originally appeared on Fool.com. Shares rose close to 40%, tacking on roughly $45 billion in market value, following the successful approval and launch of oral hepatitis C drugs Sovaldi and Harvoni. | Even Gilead, AbbVie, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Merck, and Achillion combined couldn't treat everyone in a matter of just one or two years. The article The Hepatitis C Drug Developer That Crushed Gilead Sciences, Inc. in 2014 (Hint: It's Not AbbVie) originally appeared on Fool.com. With a gain year-to-date of 328% -- that's three hundred and twenty eight percent -- clinical-stage HCV-focused Achillion Pharmaceuticals absolutely crushed Gilead in total return this year. | Even Gilead, AbbVie, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Merck, and Achillion combined couldn't treat everyone in a matter of just one or two years. The article The Hepatitis C Drug Developer That Crushed Gilead Sciences, Inc. in 2014 (Hint: It's Not AbbVie) originally appeared on Fool.com. Why Achillion scorched higher in 2014 There are a number of reasons why Achillion shares have found new life in 2014 after struggling mightily in the previous year. | Even Gilead, AbbVie, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Merck, and Achillion combined couldn't treat everyone in a matter of just one or two years. The article The Hepatitis C Drug Developer That Crushed Gilead Sciences, Inc. in 2014 (Hint: It's Not AbbVie) originally appeared on Fool.com. Gilead Sciences purchased Pharmasset in 2011, netting it Sovaldi; Bristol-Myers Squibb purchased Inhibitex and got burned badly on that deal since its lead drug wound up being scrapped for safety reasons; and Merck gobbled up Idenix Pharmaceuticals for a 239% premium from its prior-day closing price. | 440159f8-1d77-4240-9e86-5d17f3d2eea4 |
27199.0 | 2014-12-24 00:00:00 UTC | Could Express Scripts Holding Company's Gilead Gamble Backfire? | ABBV | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/could-express-scripts-holding-companys-gilead-gamble-backfire-2014-12-24 | nan | nan | Since both drugs are effective cures, this was a decision motivated by cost. Harvoni, the treatment Gilead Sciences designed to treat HCV genotype 1 patients, costs $1,125 per pill, or $94,500 for a standard 12-week treatment course. About 40% of Harvoni patients can take the drug for eight weeks instead of 12, thus pushing the treatment price down to $63,000 . Sovaldi, which is given to HCV genotype 1 patients in combination with interferon, runs a comparable $84,000. Viekira Pak will cost $83,319 for a standard 12-week treatment course -- a 12% discount to Harvoni's 12-week treatment. But, as part of its multi-year agreement, AbbVie will offer a "significant discount" to Express Scripts, but neither party was willing to elaborate on the size of the discount.
The move by Express Scripts represents the most high-profile drug to be excluded by a pharmacy-benefits manager to date, and is a direct slap in the face to Gilead, which has stood firm on its pricing in the wake of public and Congressional outcry over its HCV drug pricing. It's possible this move could be cheered by consumers as Express Scripts puts its foot down on the rapidly rising cost of specialized branded drugs.
Could this backfire?
Then again, Express Scripts' drastic tactics could wind up backfiring.
Source: Gilead Sciences.
For starters, Viekira Pak is a compound medicine that involves the patient taking four to six pills per day for 12 weeks. Sovaldi and Harvoni are a single pill. For patients, Gilead's HCV drugs are far more convenient since there's no need to remember what time you need to take your next pill. Though less expensive than Harvoni, taking 84 pills over 12 weeks is probably going to sound far more appealing to consumers than taking 336 to 504 pills over that same time period.
More importantly, instead of coming across as fighting back against rising drug prices, some consumers could view Express Scripts' actions as entirely selfish and profit-oriented. Understandably no company or consumer should pay more than is reasonable for a game-changing therapy, but removing choice from the equation may not achieve the effect that Express Scripts was looking for. Instead of appreciating the cost savings, consumers may perceive it as being denied a superior drug.
If a scenario such as this were to play out, it's possible that that we could see consumers switching pharmacies from a company like Walgreen , which has a long-term PBM deal in place with Express Scripts, to a company like CVS Health , which just so happens to be Express Script's biggest rival.
Who's next?
Regardless of how HCV patients react to Express Scripts' move, it's evident that the ball is no longer in its court. What will be interesting to monitor is whether or not Gilead Sciences budges on its price or looks to ally itself with a PBM like CVS. Furthermore, we have to wonder if state Medicaid programs will begin to follow suit. Medicare and Medicaid programs are hell-bent on cutting costs, and they may opt to cut Gilead's products out of the loop as well now that another alternative is available.
Source: CVS Health.
While I believe it's possible that Gilead could see some salesfluctuations as Viekira Pak finds its niche, I think it's important to realize that there are more than enough HCV patients in the U.S. and around the globe to support two, three, or possibly even more players . AbbVie's Viekira Pak is only approved to treat HCV genotype 1, meaning Sovaldi will still be covered by PBMs for HCV genotypes 2 & 3. In short, both Gilead and AbbVie could prove to be wildly successful, and this week's stock moves could turn out to be a buying opportunity for both companies.
As for Express Scripts, the jury is still out. This deal should save the company money over the life of its multi-year agreement, but it remains to be seen if the move alienates or encourages consumers.
1 great healthcare stock to buy for 2015 and beyond
Healthcare stocks soared in 2014, and 2015 is shaping up to be another great year for stocks. But if you want to make sure you're buying one of the best healthcare stocks, you need to know where to start. That's why The Motley Fool's chief investment officer just published a brand-new research report that reveals his top stock for the year ahead. To get the full story on this year's stock -- completely free -- simply click here .
The article Could Express Scripts Holding Company's Gilead Gamble Backfire? originally appeared on Fool.com.
Sean Williams has no material interest in any companies mentioned in this article. You can follow him on CAPS under the screen nameTMFUltraLong, track every pick he makes under the screen nameTrackUltraLong, and check him out on Twitter, where he goes by the handle@TMFUltraLong.The Motley Fool owns shares of, and recommends Express Scripts and Gilead Sciences. It also recommends CVS Health. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days . We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy .
Copyright © 1995 - 2014 The Motley Fool, LLC. All rights reserved. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy .
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | But, as part of its multi-year agreement, AbbVie will offer a "significant discount" to Express Scripts, but neither party was willing to elaborate on the size of the discount. AbbVie's Viekira Pak is only approved to treat HCV genotype 1, meaning Sovaldi will still be covered by PBMs for HCV genotypes 2 & 3. In short, both Gilead and AbbVie could prove to be wildly successful, and this week's stock moves could turn out to be a buying opportunity for both companies. | But, as part of its multi-year agreement, AbbVie will offer a "significant discount" to Express Scripts, but neither party was willing to elaborate on the size of the discount. AbbVie's Viekira Pak is only approved to treat HCV genotype 1, meaning Sovaldi will still be covered by PBMs for HCV genotypes 2 & 3. In short, both Gilead and AbbVie could prove to be wildly successful, and this week's stock moves could turn out to be a buying opportunity for both companies. | But, as part of its multi-year agreement, AbbVie will offer a "significant discount" to Express Scripts, but neither party was willing to elaborate on the size of the discount. AbbVie's Viekira Pak is only approved to treat HCV genotype 1, meaning Sovaldi will still be covered by PBMs for HCV genotypes 2 & 3. In short, both Gilead and AbbVie could prove to be wildly successful, and this week's stock moves could turn out to be a buying opportunity for both companies. | But, as part of its multi-year agreement, AbbVie will offer a "significant discount" to Express Scripts, but neither party was willing to elaborate on the size of the discount. AbbVie's Viekira Pak is only approved to treat HCV genotype 1, meaning Sovaldi will still be covered by PBMs for HCV genotypes 2 & 3. In short, both Gilead and AbbVie could prove to be wildly successful, and this week's stock moves could turn out to be a buying opportunity for both companies. | 92cc0be8-388d-417a-a14b-6ffcb0bfdc08 |
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