Cambridge, MA-based Biogen BIIB, one of the world’s leading biotechnology companies, focuses on therapeutic areas including neurology, immunology and hemophilia. However, the company is best known for its multiple sclerosis (MS) franchise comprising treatments like Avonex, Tysabri, Tecfidera and Plegridy.
Biogen also has a presence in the hemophilia market with two marketed products in its portfolio – Alprolix and Eloctate. The MS franchise remains the main contributor to the top line and Biogen is working on consolidating its position in the MS market.
Since the emergence of the first progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML)-related death in a patient on oral MS drug, Tecfidera, Biogen has been reporting a slowdown in Tecfidera’s growth rate. Moreover, a second PML-case was confirmed in 2015. Investor focus will remain on scrip growth of this oral MS treatment in the coming quarters. The continued ramp up of Plegridy will also be in focus.
BIIB has a pretty good earnings track record with the company delivering positive earnings surprises in three of the last fourth quarters with an average surprise of 7.05%. However, estimate revisions are mostly negative with analysts lowering their estimates for 2015.
Currently, BIIB has a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold), 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:
Huge Earnings Beat: BIIB’s third quarter 2015 earnings were far better-than expected. The company posted earnings of $4.48 per share while our consensus called for EPS of $3.83.
Revenues Also Top: Biogen posted revenues of $2.778 billion, surpassing the consensus estimate of $2.663 billion. Tecfidera revenues increased 6% sequentially.
Announces Job Cuts, Lifts Outlook: Biogen announced a corporate restructuring, which will result in an 11% reduction in its workforce and the termination of some pipeline programs.
Biogen now expects revenue growth of approximately 8% – 9%, up from the previously provided guidance range of 6% – 8%. Earnings are now expected in the range of $16.20 – $16.50 per share, up from the earlier guidance range of $15.50 – $15.95 per share.
Check back later for our full write up on this BIIB earnings report later!
Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report >>
Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report
Be the first to comment