Trading biotech stocks can feel much like venturing into a wild, unpredictable frontier. They offer enormous potential. The key to success in this sector lies in an understanding of the concept of a ‘catalyst’. These events, such as positive trial data or FDA approvals, can trigger substantial movements in biotech stock prices. The iconic cases from the annals of biotech trading history bear testament to this.
Here are a few examples of huge gains in biotech stocks following catalysts:
1. Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc (REGN)
In 2011, Regeneron’s Eylea, a drug used to treat macular degeneration, was approved by the FDA. The catalytic event sent REGN shares spiraling up, leading to an astonishing annual growth of 202%. Who wouldn’t want to ride that rocket ship?
2. Celgene Corporation (CELG)
Celgene, too, presented a picture-perfect case in 2013. The FDA approved its cancer drug, Pomalyst, thereby serving as a catalyst for its stock. The aftermath? A promising 109% annual growth. We can all applaud that performance, can’t we?
3. Pharmacyclics, Inc. (PCYC)
Let’s turn to Pharmacyclics’ wonder year, 2013. The FDA granted accelerated approval to its flagship drug, Imbruvica, designed to treat mantle cell lymphoma. As anticipated, this became a game-changer, escalating the company’s stock price by 99%. Talk about getting a bang for your buck!
4. BioMarin Pharmaceutical Inc. (BMRN)
On to 2016, when BioMarin’s Brineura received FDA approval to treat Batten disease. This served as a major catalyst, driving the stock upwards by 60%. It appears that good news is indeed a good investment, isn’t it?
5. Sarepta Therapeutics, Inc. (SRPT)
To wrap up our history sequence, let’s fast forward to 2019: Sarepta Therapeutics obtained FDA approval for its Duchenne muscular dystrophy drug, Vyondys 53. Cue the jaw-dropping stock surge, catapulting its price by 73% annual growth. It’s safe to say that health catalysts translate to robust wealth catalysts!
You can see the incredible potential. Now let’s look at 3 biotech catalysts to watch out for in 2024…
Three Biotech Catalysts to Watch in 2024
The first biotech contender to keep an eye on is Regenxbio Inc. (RGNX). This clinical-stage biotechnology company is a leading player in the gene therapy field, aiming to transform patient lives with new, advanced treatment techniques. The primary catalyst anticipated for this stock is the results from their RGX-314 product, a one-time treatment for age-related macular degeneration, a leading cause of blindness. Expected in 2024, these results could significantly enhance the stock’s value if favorable.
Second on the agenda is Precision BioSciences, Inc. (DTIL). Precision Bio operates on the forefront of the gene editing sector, offering therapies that are engineered to battle both cancer and genetic diseases. Expected to be a significant inflection point for the company and the investors is the data readout from their PBCAR269A therapy for multiple myeloma. By modifying the genetic makeup, this therapy aims to enhance the body’s immune response to cancer cells – a groundbreaker if successful. The results due in 2024 could have a robust impact on their stock value.
Finally, we have Allogene Therapeutics, Inc. (ALLO), an innovative trailblazer in the arena of off-the-shelf CAR-T (Chimeric Antigen Receptor T cells) therapies, a significant advancement in immuno-oncology. The company’s main catalyst is carrying the banner for later-stage trials of its ALLO-501 and ALLO-501A therapies used for treating large B-cell lymphoma. Positive clinical results expected in 2024 will serve as an important milestone for Allogene and could prove to be a significant propulsion for stock value.
The Power of Catalysts and Our Belief in Biotech
Trading based on biotech catalysts isn’t merely about gambling on outcomes – it’s about understanding the potential of science, backing innovation, and believing in a future where diseases are combated using groundbreaking techniques. It’s a chance to partake in history while also growing your wealth.
Speaking candidly, my investment thesis is rooted in strong belief in life sciences, particularly in gene therapy and immuno-oncology. As the complexity of diseases increases, so does our need for more robust and targeted therapeutics. The advancements these companies represent, and the potential they possess are why I am personally bullish on biotech.
These catalysts are not guaranteed windfalls, though. There are risks associated with investing in biotech, from clinical trials failing to meet expectations, regulatory body rejections, to unforeseen side effects. However, with careful evaluation, patience and a bit of expert guidance, there’s a real opportunity for asset growth and to back companies that might just change the world.
In the high-stakes game of trading biotech stocks, catalyst events have long served as significant turning points, influencing the subsequent rise or fall of a company’s share price. Much like the fervor that surrounds an Apple product launch, or Elon Musk tweeting about a revolutionary innovation, these corporate events have the potential to shift market narratives and make—or break—an investor’s portfolio. Notable examples of such catalysts include drug trial results, regulatory approvals, and even global health epidemics. The biotech realm is notoriously risky, yet for those willing to play the odds, the rewards can be strikingly substantial.
“In essence, investing in biotech stocks is akin to placing hopeful bets on the future of medicine, underpinned by both scientific progress and market dynamics.” – John A. Rekenthaler, Morningstar Vice President of Research.
