Últimas noticias sobre Amgen (NASDAQ:AMGN) Bolsa

Amgen

Amgen is a leader in biotechnology-based human therapeutics. Flagship drugs include red blood cell boosters Epogen and Aranesp, immune system boosters Neupogen and Neulasta, and Enbrel and Otezla for inflammatory diseases. Amgen introduced its first cancer therapeutic, Vectibix, in 2006 and markets bone-strengthening drug Prolia/Xgeva (approved 2010) and Evenity (2019). The acquisition of Onyx bolstered the firm's therapeutic oncology portfolio with Kyprolis. Recent launches include Repatha (cholesterol-lowering), Aimovig (migraine), Lumakras (lung cancer), and Tezspire (asthma). The 2023 Horizon acquisition brings several rare-disease drugs, including thyroid eye disease drug Tepezza. Amgen also has a growing biosimilar portfolio.

Amgen Inc

AMGEN ORD

Biotech

News

Events

General

AMGN

Amgen To Present MITIGATE Phase 3 Study At ACR 2024 Nov. 14-19

Deep-pocketed investors have adopted a bullish approach towards Amgen (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMGN#NASDAQ">AMGN</a>), and it's something market players shouldn't ignore. Our tracking of public options records at Benzinga unveiled this significant move today. The identity of these investors remains unknown, but such a substantial move in AMGN usually suggests something big is about to happen.
We gleaned this information from our observations today when Benzinga's options scanner highlighted 8 extraordinary options activities for Amgen. This level of activity is out of the ordinary.
The general mood among these heavyweight investors is divided, with 50% leaning bullish and 25% bearish. Among these notable options, 4 are puts, totaling $137,540, and 4 are calls, amounting to $285,919.
<h3>Projected Price Targets</h3>
Based on the trading activity, it appears that the significant investors are aiming for a price territory stretching from $290.0 to $340.0 for Amgen over the recent three months. 
<h3>Insights into Volume &amp; Open Interest</h3>
Looking at the volume and open interest is an insightful way to conduct due diligence on a stock.
This data can help you track the liquidity and interest for Amgen's options for a given strike price.
Below, we can observe the evolution of the volume and open interest of calls and puts, respectively, for all of Amgen's whale activity within a strike price range from $290.0 to $340.0 in the last 30 days. 
<h3>Amgen Option Volume And Open Interest Over Last 30 Days</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1731600944_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" />
<h3>Significant Options Trades Detected:</h3>

<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Ask</th>
<th>Bid</th>
<th>Price</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th>Open Interest</th>
<th align="right">Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>AMGN</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/15/27</td>
<td>$43.6</td>
<td>$43.55</td>
<td>$43.6</td>
<td>$300.00</td>
<td>$196.2K</td>
<td>25</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>AMGN</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$52.8</td>
<td>$51.5</td>
<td>$51.5</td>
<td>$340.00</td>
<td>$51.5K</td>
<td>190</td>
<td align="right">19</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>AMGN</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>12/20/24</td>
<td>$10.3</td>
<td>$9.2</td>
<td>$10.0</td>
<td>$310.00</td>
<td>$38.0K</td>
<td>1.8K</td>
<td align="right">62</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>AMGN</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>12/20/24</td>
<td>$15.65</td>
<td>$15.2</td>
<td>$15.45</td>
<td>$290.00</td>
<td>$33.9K</td>
<td>1.5K</td>
<td align="right">30</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>AMGN</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>12/06/24</td>
<td>$2.95</td>
<td>$2.08</td>
<td>$2.29</td>
<td>$340.00</td>
<td>$26.5K</td>
<td>112</td>
<td align="right">121</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h3>About Amgen</h3>
Amgen is a leader in biotechnology-based human therapeutics. Flagship drugs include red blood cell boosters Epogen and Aranesp, immune system boosters Neupogen and Neulasta, and Enbrel and Otezla for inflammatory diseases. Amgen introduced its first cancer therapeutic, Vectibix, in 2006 and markets bone-strengthening drug Prolia/Xgeva (approved 2010) and Evenity (2019). The acquisition of Onyx bolstered the firm's therapeutic oncology portfolio with Kyprolis. Recent launches include Repatha (cholesterol-lowering), Aimovig (migraine), Lumakras (lung cancer), and Tezspire (asthma). The 2023 Horizon acquisition brings several rare-disease drugs, including thyroid eye disease drug Tepezza. Amgen also has a growing biosimilar portfolio.
<h3>Amgen's Current Market Status</h3>
<ul>
<li>Currently trading with a volume of 856,173, the AMGN's price is down by -2.03%, now at $295.33. </li>
<li>RSI readings suggest the stock is currently may be oversold.</li>
<li>Anticipated earnings release is in 82 days.</li>
</ul>
<h3>What Analysts Are Saying About Amgen</h3>
Over the past month, 5 industry analysts have shared their insights on this stock, proposing an average target price of $360.8.
Turn $1000 into $1270 in just 20 days?
20-year pro options trader reveals his one-line chart technique that shows when to buy and sell. Copy his trades, which have had averaged a 27% profit every 20 days. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/options-moneyline-2/?t=Moop1arja3be22op14&amp;utm_source=benzinga-insights">Click here for access</a>. 
&#x2A; An analyst from Bernstein downgraded its action to Outperform with a price target of $380. 
&#x2A; Maintaining their stance, an analyst from Jefferies continues to hold a Buy rating for Amgen, targeting a price of $380. 
&#x2A; In a cautious move, an analyst from Citigroup downgraded its rating to Neutral, setting a price target of $335. 
&#x2A; An analyst from TD Cowen persists with their Buy rating on Amgen, maintaining a target price of $383. 
&#x2A; Maintaining their stance, an analyst from UBS continues to hold a Neutral rating for Amgen, targeting a price of $326. 
Options are a riskier asset compared to just trading the stock, but they have higher profit potential. Serious options traders manage this risk by educating themselves daily, scaling in and out of trades, following more than one indicator, and following the markets closely.
If you want to stay updated on the latest options trades for Amgen, <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a> gives you real-time options trades alerts.

Options

Markets

Amgen's Options Frenzy: What You Need to Know

Analysts' ratings for Amgen (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMGN#NASDAQ">AMGN</a>) over the last quarter vary from bullish to bearish, as provided by 11 analysts.
The following table encapsulates their recent ratings, offering a glimpse into the evolving sentiments over the past 30 days and comparing them to the preceding months.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th></th>
<th align="right">Bullish</th>
<th align="right">Somewhat Bullish</th>
<th align="right">Indifferent</th>
<th align="right">Somewhat Bearish</th>
<th align="right">Bearish</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Total Ratings</td>
<td align="right">2</td>
<td align="right">4</td>
<td align="right">4</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Last 30D</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1M Ago</td>
<td align="right">2</td>
<td align="right">2</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2M Ago</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">2</td>
<td align="right">2</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3M Ago</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
Analysts have set 12-month price targets for Amgen, revealing an average target of $349.0, a high estimate of $405.00, and a low estimate of $215.00. Observing a 3.48% increase, the current average has risen from the previous average price target of $337.25. 
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1731592860_0.png" alt="price target chart" />
<h2>Exploring Analyst Ratings: An In-Depth Overview</h2>
The standing of Amgen among financial experts is revealed through an in-depth exploration of recent analyst actions. The summary below outlines key analysts, their recent evaluations, and adjustments to ratings and price targets.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Analyst</th>
<th>Analyst Firm</th>
<th>Action Taken</th>
<th>Rating</th>
<th>Current Price Target</th>
<th>Prior Price Target</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Geoff Meacham</td>
<td>Citigroup</td>
<td>Announces</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$335.00</td>
<td>-</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Michael Yee</td>
<td>Jefferies</td>
<td>Maintains</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$380.00</td>
<td>$380.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Colin Bristow</td>
<td>UBS</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$326.00</td>
<td>$335.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Olivia Brayer</td>
<td>Cantor Fitzgerald</td>
<td>Maintains</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
<td>$405.00</td>
<td>$405.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Yaron Weber</td>
<td>TD Cowen</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$383.00</td>
<td>$381.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Aaron Gal</td>
<td>Bernstein</td>
<td>Announces</td>
<td>Outperform</td>
<td>$380.00</td>
<td>-</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Robyn Karnauskas</td>
<td>Truist Securities</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Hold</td>
<td>$333.00</td>
<td>$320.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Carter Gould</td>
<td>Barclays</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Equal-Weight</td>
<td>$315.00</td>
<td>$300.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Olivia Brayer</td>
<td>Cantor Fitzgerald</td>
<td>Announces</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
<td>$405.00</td>
<td>-</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Gregory Renza</td>
<td>RBC Capital</td>
<td>Maintains</td>
<td>Outperform</td>
<td>$362.00</td>
<td>$362.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Brian Skorney</td>
<td>Baird</td>
<td>Maintains</td>
<td>Underperform</td>
<td>$215.00</td>
<td>$215.00</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h3>Key Insights:</h3>
<ul>
<li>Action Taken: Responding to changing market dynamics and company performance, analysts update their recommendations. Whether they 'Maintain', 'Raise', or 'Lower' their stance, it signifies their response to recent developments related to Amgen. This offers insight into analysts' perspectives on the current state of the company.</li>
<li>Rating: Analysts unravel qualitative evaluations for stocks, ranging from 'Outperform' to 'Underperform'. These ratings offer insights into expectations for the relative performance of Amgen compared to the broader market.</li>
<li>Price Targets: Analysts predict movements in price targets, offering estimates for Amgen's future value. Examining the current and prior targets offers insights into analysts' evolving expectations.</li>
</ul>
Assessing these analyst evaluations alongside crucial financial indicators can provide a comprehensive overview of Amgen's market position. Stay informed and make well-judged decisions with the assistance of our Ratings Table.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/AMGN/analyst-ratings?utm_source=Benzinga Insights">Stay up to date on Amgen analyst ratings.</a>
<h2>Unveiling the Story Behind Amgen</h2>
Amgen is a leader in biotechnology-based human therapeutics. Flagship drugs include red blood cell boosters Epogen and Aranesp, immune system boosters Neupogen and Neulasta, and Enbrel and Otezla for inflammatory diseases. Amgen introduced its first cancer therapeutic, Vectibix, in 2006 and markets bone-strengthening drug Prolia/Xgeva (approved 2010) and Evenity (2019). The acquisition of Onyx bolstered the firm's therapeutic oncology portfolio with Kyprolis. Recent launches include Repatha (cholesterol-lowering), Aimovig (migraine), Lumakras (lung cancer), and Tezspire (asthma). The 2023 Horizon acquisition brings several rare-disease drugs, including thyroid eye disease drug Tepezza. Amgen also has a growing biosimilar portfolio.
<h3>Amgen's Financial Performance</h3>
Market Capitalization Analysis: The company's market capitalization is above the industry average, indicating that it is relatively larger in size compared to peers. This may suggest a higher level of investor confidence and market recognition.
Revenue Growth: Amgen's revenue growth over a period of 3 months has been noteworthy. As of 30 September, 2024, the company achieved a revenue growth rate of approximately 23.18%. This indicates a substantial increase in the company's top-line earnings. As compared to its peers, the revenue growth lags behind its industry peers. The company achieved a growth rate lower than the average among peers in Health Care sector.
Net Margin: Amgen's net margin surpasses industry standards, highlighting the company's exceptional financial performance. With an impressive 33.28% net margin, the company effectively manages costs and achieves strong profitability.
Return on Equity (ROE): Amgen's financial strength is reflected in its exceptional ROE, which exceeds industry averages. With a remarkable ROE of 42.08%, the company showcases efficient use of equity capital and strong financial health.
Return on Assets (ROA): Amgen's ROA stands out, surpassing industry averages. With an impressive ROA of 3.11%, the company demonstrates effective utilization of assets and strong financial performance.
Debt Management: Amgen's debt-to-equity ratio surpasses industry norms, standing at 8.02. This suggests the company carries a substantial amount of debt, posing potential financial challenges.
<h2>Analyst Ratings: Simplified</h2>
Experts in banking and financial systems, analysts specialize in reporting for specific stocks or defined sectors. Their comprehensive research involves attending company conference calls and meetings, analyzing financial statements, and engaging with insiders to generate what are known as analyst ratings for stocks. Typically, analysts assess and rate each stock once per quarter.
Some analysts also offer predictions for helpful metrics such as earnings, revenue, and growth estimates to provide further guidance as to what to do with certain tickers. It is important to keep in mind that while stock and sector analysts are specialists, they are also human and can only forecast their beliefs to traders.
Which Stocks Are Analysts Recommending Now?
Benzinga Edge gives you instant access to all major analyst upgrades, downgrades, and price targets. Sort by accuracy, upside potential, and more. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/benzinga-edge-checkout/?t=be8be9arja3be22bz21&amp;utm_source=benzinga-insights">Click here to stay ahead of the market</a>.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

Analyst Ratings

What Analysts Are Saying About Amgen Stock

Citigroup analyst Geoff Meacham initiates coverage on Amgen (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMGN#NASDAQ">AMGN</a>) with a Neutral rating and announces Price Target of $335.

Price Target

Initiation

Citigroup Initiates Coverage On Amgen with Neutral Rating, Announces Price Target of $335

On Tuesday, a Cantor analyst wrote that additional data from Amgen&#8217;s experimental weight loss injection, MariTide, suggests a new potential safety risk tied to the drug.
On Wednesday, Amgen Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMGN#NASDAQ">AMGN</a>) stated the MariTide (maridebart cafraglutide, formerly AMG 133) Phase 1 data, saying, &#8220;Amgen does not see an association between the administration of MariTide and bone mineral density (BMD) changes. The Phase 1 study results do not suggest any bone safety concerns or change our conviction in the promise of MariTide. We look forward to sharing the Phase 2 topline data <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/24/11/n41932478/amgen-provides-statement-on-maritide-phase-1-data" rel="noreferrer noopener">later this year</a>.&#8221;
CNBC <a target="_blank" href="https://www.cnbc.com/2024/11/12/amgen-stock-falls-on-weight-loss-drugs-bone-density-loss-data.html" rel="noreferrer noopener">highlighted</a> that MariTide could be a strong new contender in the weight loss drug market. Unlike current weekly injections from Novo Nordisk A/S (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVO#NYSE">NVO</a>) and Eli Lilly And Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LLY#NYSE">LLY</a>), MariTide is taken once a month and works through a different mechanism.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/health-care/24/11/41928127/jim-cramer-says-eli-lillys-pathetic-stock-performance-could-get-a-breather-if-amgen-has-hidden-bone-risk-data-after-7-stock-drop" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jim Cramer Says Eli Lilly&#8217;s &#8216;Pathetic&#8217; Stock Performance Could Get A Breather If Amgen Has Hidden Bone Risk Data After 7% Stock Drop</a>
Analysts referred to new public data from a phase one study, showing that the highest dose of MariTide (420 milligrams) was associated with around 4% decrease in bone mineral density over 12 weeks.
Goldman Sachs responded that after reviewing the data, they do not believe it shows any safety issues.
Goldman Sachs says BMD measurements from DEXA scans and believes concerns about the data are not justified as there is no significant difference between the treatment and placebo, nor any clear dose-dependent effect in the DEXA data.
The analyst also says a study by Amgen&#8217;s deCODE genetics, which included data from 1.2 million people, found no link between obesity-related variants in the GIPR gene and a higher risk of fractures or lower BMD. It&#8217;s already well-established that rapid weight loss is linked to BMD loss.
William Blair notes that at lower doses of AMG 133 (140 mg and 280 mg), the reduction in bone mineral density is minimal, around 2% at most, which might not differ significantly from the placebo due to limited data in smaller groups.
While the 4% reduction stands out compared to typical reductions of 2% to 2.5%, bariatric surgery has been known to reduce BMD by 3% to 5% after six months.
MariTide, which leads to <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/24/02/36934096/weight-loss-drugs-new-entrant-amgen-to-compete-with-novo-nordisk-eli-lilly-as-investigational-wei" rel="noreferrer noopener">more significant weight loss</a> over six months than semaglutide or liraglutide, may also result in greater BMD reductions due to this weight change.
Price Action: AMGN stock is up 1.39% at $302.98 at last check Wednesday.
Photo via Shutterstock
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/24/11/41947492/syros-pharmaceuticals-stock-sinks-as-pivotal-blood-cancer-trial-flunks-triggers-loan-default" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Syros Pharmaceuticals Stock Sinks As Pivotal Blood Cancer Trial Flunks, Triggers Loan Default</a></li>
</ul>

Analyst Color

Equities

Large Cap

Health Care

Trading Ideas

Amgen Defends Its Investigational Monthly Weight Loss Injection After Analyst Cites MariTide's Impact on Bone Density

- UBS Healthcare Conference
<a href="https://www.ubs.com/global/en/investment-bank/ib-conferences/americas/global-healthcare-conference/overview.html" title="https://www.ubs.com/global/en/investment-bank/ib-conferences/americas/global-healthcare-conference/overview.html">https://www.ubs.com/global/en/investment-bank/ib-conferences/americas/global-healthcare-conference/overview.html</a>

Amgen Executive Says Co Continues To Be "Laser Focused" On A Phase Three Development Program For Its Obesity Drug Maritide; Says Co Has Not Seen Any Association Between Administration Of Maritide And Bone Mineral Density Changes Or Safety Signals For Bone; Believe That A Research Note Had Suggested "An Inappropriate Inference" Of Maritide Data Given Its Limitations

This whale alert can help traders discover the next big trading opportunities.
Whales are entities with large sums of money and we track their transactions here at Benzinga on our options activity scanner.
Traders often look for circumstances when the market estimation of an option diverges away from its normal worth. Abnormal amounts of trading activity could push option prices to hyperbolic or underperforming levels. 
Here's the list of options activity happening in today's session: 
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th>Open Interest</th>
<th>Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>BSX</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>11/22/24</td>
<td>$87.00</td>
<td>$27.8K</td>
<td>600</td>
<td>3.0K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>VKTX</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>11/29/24</td>
<td>$70.00</td>
<td>$71.9K</td>
<td>2.1K</td>
<td>1.0K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>ALT</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>11/15/24</td>
<td>$11.00</td>
<td>$41.8K</td>
<td>250</td>
<td>926</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>AMGN</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>12/20/24</td>
<td>$320.00</td>
<td>$376.7K</td>
<td>1.6K</td>
<td>760</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>BMY</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>08/15/25</td>
<td>$65.00</td>
<td>$645.0K</td>
<td>1</td>
<td>750</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>CVS</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$55.00</td>
<td>$112.1K</td>
<td>1.7K</td>
<td>726</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MRK</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$100.00</td>
<td>$59.3K</td>
<td>445</td>
<td>431</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>HIMS</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>11/15/24</td>
<td>$23.00</td>
<td>$95.7K</td>
<td>4.2K</td>
<td>288</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>PTGX</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$35.00</td>
<td>$38.1K</td>
<td>48</td>
<td>268</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>INCY</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>11/15/24</td>
<td>$67.50</td>
<td>$35.5K</td>
<td>1.1K</td>
<td>157</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h2>Explanation</h2>
These bullet-by-bullet explanations have been constructed using the accompanying table. 
• For BSX (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BSX#NYSE">BSX</a>), we notice a put option sweep that happens to be neutral, expiring in 9 day(s) on November 22, 2024. This event was a transfer of 316 contract(s) at a $87.00 strike. This particular put needed to be split into 38 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $27.8K, with a price of $88.0 per contract. There were 600 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 3045 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For VKTX (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VKTX#NASDAQ">VKTX</a>), we notice a call option trade that happens to be bullish, expiring in 16 day(s) on November 29, 2024. This event was a transfer of 899 contract(s) at a $70.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $71.9K, with a price of $80.0 per contract. There were 2173 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 1039 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For ALT (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ALT#NASDAQ">ALT</a>), we notice a put option sweep that happens to be bullish, expiring in 2 day(s) on November 15, 2024. This event was a transfer of 416 contract(s) at a $11.00 strike. This particular put needed to be split into 3 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $41.8K, with a price of $100.0 per contract. There were 250 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 926 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding AMGN (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMGN#NASDAQ">AMGN</a>), we observe a call option sweep with bearish sentiment. It expires in 37 day(s) on December 20, 2024. Parties traded 352 contract(s) at a $320.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 46 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $376.7K, with a price of $1070.0 per contract. There were 1630 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 760 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding BMY (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BMY#NYSE">BMY</a>), we observe a put option trade with bullish sentiment. It expires in 275 day(s) on August 15, 2025. Parties traded 750 contract(s) at a $65.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $645.0K, with a price of $860.0 per contract. There were 1 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 750 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding CVS (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CVS#NYSE">CVS</a>), we observe a put option sweep with bullish sentiment. It expires in 219 day(s) on June 20, 2025. Parties traded 210 contract(s) at a $55.00 strike. This particular put needed to be split into 27 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $112.1K, with a price of $533.0 per contract. There were 1798 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 726 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding MRK (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>), we observe a call option sweep with bullish sentiment. It expires in 219 day(s) on June 20, 2025. Parties traded 85 contract(s) at a $100.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 13 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $59.3K, with a price of $695.0 per contract. There were 445 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 431 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding HIMS (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HIMS#NYSE">HIMS</a>), we observe a call option sweep with bullish sentiment. It expires in 2 day(s) on November 15, 2024. Parties traded 174 contract(s) at a $23.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 21 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $95.7K, with a price of $549.0 per contract. There were 4250 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 288 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For PTGX (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PTGX#NASDAQ">PTGX</a>), we notice a call option sweep that happens to be bearish, expiring in 65 day(s) on January 17, 2025. This event was a transfer of 37 contract(s) at a $35.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 7 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $38.1K, with a price of $1030.0 per contract. There were 48 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 268 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For INCY (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/INCY#NASDAQ">INCY</a>), we notice a call option sweep that happens to be bullish, expiring in 2 day(s) on November 15, 2024. This event was a transfer of 25 contract(s) at a $67.50 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 9 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $35.5K, with a price of $1416.0 per contract. There were 1186 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 157 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
Options Alert Terminology 
 - Call Contracts: The right to buy shares as indicated in the contract. 
 - Put Contracts: The right to sell shares as indicated in the contract. 
 - Expiration Date: When the contract expires. One must act on the contract by this date if one wants to use it. 
 - Premium/Option Price: The price of the contract. 
For more information, visit our <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/blog/how-to-understand-option-alerts/">Guide to Understanding Options Alerts</a> or read <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/options">more news on unusual options activity</a>. 
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

Hims & Hers Health, Inc. Class A Common Stock

HIMS

INCY

PTGX

VKTX

10 Health Care Stocks With Whale Alerts In Today's Session

Live On CNBC, Joe Terranova Announces Sold Amgen

"The Phase 1 study results do not suggest any bone safety concern or change our conviction in the promise of MariTide. We look forward to sharing the Phase 2 topline data later this year," Amgen said.

Amgen Issued The Statement On MariTide (Maridebart Cafraglutide, Formerly AMG 133) Phase 1 Data, Saying Amgen Does Not See An Association Between The Administration Of MariTide And Bone Mineral Density Changes

Amgen Inc.&#8216;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMGN#NASDAQ">AMGN</a>) stock dropped over 7% on Tuesday following revelations about bone density loss in early trials of its experimental obesity drug MariTide, while CNBC&#8217;s Jim Cramer suggested the news could benefit rival Eli Lilly And Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LLY#NYSE">LLY</a>).
What Happened: Previously undisclosed data from MariTide&#8217;s Phase 1 trial showed a 4% decrease in bone mineral density among participants receiving a 420mg dose during the 12-week multiple ascending dose study. According to Olivia Brayer of Cantor Fitzgerald, the information emerged from hidden tabs in extended data files related to the trial.
MariTide, positioned as a monthly alternative to weekly injections offered by competitors Novo Nordisk (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVO#NYSE">NVO</a>) and Eli Lilly, operates through a different weight loss mechanism. The drug&#8217;s development has attracted significant attention due to its potential to disrupt the growing obesity treatment market.
&#8220;If Amgen has hidden bone risk data for its obesity drug, that&#8217;s huge news for Lilly which has become a pathetic stock of late,&#8221; Cramer wrote on X, formerly Twitter, announcing plans to discuss the implications at an upcoming meeting.
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"> 
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">If Amgen has hidden bone risk data for its obesity drug , that&#39;s huge news for Lilly which has become a pathetic stock of late. Club name.. will talk about it at Thursday&#39;s meeting
&mdash; Jim Cramer (@jimcramer) <a href="https://twitter.com/jimcramer/status/1856424358564245623?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 12, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/11/41927291/mara-holdings-soundhound-ai-spotify-rivian-tesla-why-these-5-stocks-are-on-investors-radars-today">MARA Holdings, SoundHound AI, Spotify, Rivian, Tesla: Why These 5 Stocks Are On Investors&#8217; Radars Today</a>
Why It Matters: Despite concerns, Cantor Fitzgerald maintained its Overweight rating on Amgen with a $405 price target. The firm acknowledged that while some bone density loss is expected during weight loss treatments, particularly with a suboptimal diet, the dose-dependent increase in bone density loss could raise red flags.
The analysis also revealed data about AMG 598, a predecessor molecule that Amgen may have been investigating to challenge assumptions about GIPR antagonism&#8217;s role in bone density loss.
Price Action: Eli Lilly stock closed at $818.86 on Tuesday, down 1.63% for the day, with a slight drop of 0.10% in after-hours trading. Despite this, the stock has seen a strong 38.27% increase year-to-date. 
Meanwhile, Amgen ended the day at $298.84, down 7.14%. However, it saw a slight recovery after hours, rising 0.61%. Amgen's stock has gained 0.49% year-to-date, according to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard">data from Benzinga Pro</a>.
Read Next: 
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/media/24/11/41927913/amazon-confirms-vendor-data-breach-affecting-2-8m-employee-contacts-adds-to-growing-list-of-moveit-hack-victims">Amazon Confirms Vendor Data Breach Affecting 2.8M+ Employee Contacts, Adds To Growing List Of MOVEit Hack Victims</a></li>
</ul>
Image Via Shutterstock 
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

Jim Cramer Says Eli Lilly's 'Pathetic' Stock Performance Could Get A Breather If Amgen Has Hidden Bone Risk Data After 7% Stock Drop

Jefferies analyst Michael Yee maintains Amgen (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMGN#NASDAQ">AMGN</a>) with a Buy and maintains $380 price target.

Jefferies Maintains Buy on Amgen, Maintains $380 Price Target

WIIM

Amgen shares are trading lower after Cantor Fitzgerald highlighted pipeline risks and a 4% BMD loss in its AMG-133 Phase 1 trial.

Guidance

Cantor Fitzgerald Maintains Overweight Rating On Amgen With $405 Price Target, Projecting $33.2B Revenue In 2024; Highlights Pipeline Risks And -4% BMD Loss In AMG-133 Phase 1 Trial

This whale alert can help traders discover the next big trading opportunities.
Whales are entities with large sums of money and we track their transactions here at Benzinga on our options activity scanner.
Traders often look for circumstances when the market estimation of an option diverges away from its normal worth. Abnormal amounts of trading activity could push option prices to hyperbolic or underperforming levels. 
Here's the list of options activity happening in today's session: 
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th>Open Interest</th>
<th align="right">Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>HIMS</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$30.00</td>
<td>$42.6K</td>
<td>3.5K</td>
<td align="right">672</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>DOCS</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>05/16/25</td>
<td>$62.50</td>
<td>$50.2K</td>
<td>2</td>
<td align="right">446</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>PFE</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>12/19/25</td>
<td>$30.00</td>
<td>$28.1K</td>
<td>7.0K</td>
<td align="right">252</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>AMGN</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$315.00</td>
<td>$51.9K</td>
<td>1.1K</td>
<td align="right">72</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>TGTX</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>08/15/25</td>
<td>$35.00</td>
<td>$34.0K</td>
<td>38</td>
<td align="right">71</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>JANX</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>12/20/24</td>
<td>$50.00</td>
<td>$36.6K</td>
<td>595</td>
<td align="right">61</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>CI</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>12/20/24</td>
<td>$340.00</td>
<td>$27.0K</td>
<td>49</td>
<td align="right">59</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>IONS</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/15/27</td>
<td>$55.00</td>
<td>$25.0K</td>
<td>331</td>
<td align="right">50</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>NVO</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$100.00</td>
<td>$41.7K</td>
<td>1.1K</td>
<td align="right">42</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>RGEN</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>11/15/24</td>
<td>$130.00</td>
<td>$33.0K</td>
<td>21</td>
<td align="right">20</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h2>Explanation</h2>
These bullet-by-bullet explanations have been constructed using the accompanying table. 
• Regarding HIMS (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HIMS#NYSE">HIMS</a>), we observe a call option trade with bullish sentiment. It expires in 430 day(s) on January 16, 2026. Parties traded 49 contract(s) at a $30.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $42.6K, with a price of $870.0 per contract. There were 3515 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 672 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding DOCS (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DOCS#NYSE">DOCS</a>), we observe a put option trade with bearish sentiment. It expires in 185 day(s) on May 16, 2025. Parties traded 54 contract(s) at a $62.50 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $50.2K, with a price of $930.0 per contract. There were 2 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 446 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding PFE (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PFE#NYSE">PFE</a>), we observe a call option sweep with neutral sentiment. It expires in 402 day(s) on December 19, 2025. Parties traded 225 contract(s) at a $30.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 3 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $28.1K, with a price of $125.0 per contract. There were 7032 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 252 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding AMGN (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMGN#NASDAQ">AMGN</a>), we observe a put option trade with bullish sentiment. It expires in 66 day(s) on January 17, 2025. Parties traded 30 contract(s) at a $315.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $51.9K, with a price of $1730.0 per contract. There were 1132 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 72 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For TGTX (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TGTX#NASDAQ">TGTX</a>), we notice a call option trade that happens to be bullish, expiring in 276 day(s) on August 15, 2025. This event was a transfer of 50 contract(s) at a $35.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $34.0K, with a price of $680.0 per contract. There were 38 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 71 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For JANX (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JANX#NASDAQ">JANX</a>), we notice a put option sweep that happens to be bullish, expiring in 38 day(s) on December 20, 2024. This event was a transfer of 61 contract(s) at a $50.00 strike. This particular put needed to be split into 3 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $36.6K, with a price of $601.0 per contract. There were 595 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 61 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For CI (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CI#NYSE">CI</a>), we notice a put option sweep that happens to be bearish, expiring in 38 day(s) on December 20, 2024. This event was a transfer of 36 contract(s) at a $340.00 strike. This particular put needed to be split into 6 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $27.0K, with a price of $750.0 per contract. There were 49 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 59 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For IONS (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IONS#NASDAQ">IONS</a>), we notice a call option trade that happens to be bullish, expiring in 794 day(s) on January 15, 2027. This event was a transfer of 50 contract(s) at a $55.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $25.0K, with a price of $500.0 per contract. There were 331 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 50 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For NVO (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVO#NYSE">NVO</a>), we notice a call option sweep that happens to be neutral, expiring in 66 day(s) on January 17, 2025. This event was a transfer of 39 contract(s) at a $100.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 4 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $41.7K, with a price of $1070.0 per contract. There were 1154 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 42 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding RGEN (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RGEN#NASDAQ">RGEN</a>), we observe a call option trade with neutral sentiment. It expires in 3 day(s) on November 15, 2024. Parties traded 20 contract(s) at a $130.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $33.0K, with a price of $1650.0 per contract. There were 21 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 20 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
Options Alert Terminology 
 - Call Contracts: The right to buy shares as indicated in the contract. 
 - Put Contracts: The right to sell shares as indicated in the contract. 
 - Expiration Date: When the contract expires. One must act on the contract by this date if one wants to use it. 
 - Premium/Option Price: The price of the contract. 
For more information, visit our <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/blog/how-to-understand-option-alerts/">Guide to Understanding Options Alerts</a> or read <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/options">more about unusual options activity</a>. 
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

DOCS

IONS

JANX

RGEN

TGTX

10 Health Care Stocks Whale Activity In Today's Session

AstraZeneca Plc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AZN#NASDAQ">AZN</a>) and Amgen Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMGN#NASDAQ">AMGN</a>) released topline data from the Phase 3 WAYPOINT trial of Tezspire (tezepelumab) in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP [nasal polyps])
The data <a target="_blank" href="https://www.astrazeneca.com/media-centre/press-releases/2024/tezspire-nasal-polyps-trial-met-primary-endpoints.html" rel="noreferrer noopener">showed</a> that Tezspire&nbsp;demonstrated a statistically significant and clinically meaningful reduction in the size of nasal polyps and reduced nasal congestion compared to placebo.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/04/38299995/amgenastrazenecas-asthma-drug-tezspire-vs-sanofiregenerons-blockbuster-dupixent-ana" rel="noreferrer noopener">Amgen/AstraZeneca&#8217;s Asthma Drug Tezspire Vs. Sanofi/Regeneron&#8217;s Blockbuster Dupixent &#8211; Analyst Gives His Pick</a>
WAYPOINT is a randomized, double-blind trial that evaluated the efficacy and safety of&nbsp;Tezspire&nbsp;administered subcutaneously compared to placebo in adults with severe CRSwNP.
Participants in the trial were symptomatic despite treatment with standard of care (intranasal corticosteroids [INCS]).
Chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps is&nbsp;a condition that can cause symptoms from sinus pain and nose stuffiness to loss of smell. Nasal polyps are growths in the nose or sinuses.
The safety profile and tolerability of&nbsp;Tezspire in this trial were consistent with the known profile of the medicine.
Full results will be shared with regulatory authorities and the scientific community at an upcoming medical meeting.
Tezspire&nbsp;is currently approved for severe asthma in the US, EU, Japan, and nearly 60 countries.
It is approved as a single-use pre-filled syringe and auto-injector for self-administration in the US and EU.
In May, the companies announced the results of the Phase 2a COURSE trial of Tezspire for severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) with a broad range of baseline blood eosinophil counts (BEC) irrespective of emphysema, chronic&nbsp;bronchitis, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/24/05/38924821/amgenastrazeneca-say-asthma-drug-shows-activity-in-another-lung-disease-across-broad-patient-popu" rel="noreferrer noopener">or smoking status</a>.&nbsp;
The primary results showed that treatment with Tezspire led to a 17% numerical reduction in the annual rate of moderate or severe COPD exacerbations compared to placebo at week 52, which was not statistically significant.
Price Action: AMGN stock closed at $321.91 on Thursday, and AZN stock is up 0.11% at $64.76 during the premarket session at the last check on Friday.
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/11/41820820/solaredge-q3-results-miss-expectations-analysts-warn-of-cash-flow-challenges-and-ne" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">SolarEdge Q3 Results Miss Expectations; Analysts Warn Of Cash Flow Challenges And Need For Cost Cuts</a></li>
</ul>
Photo: Shutterstock

AstraZeneca/Amgen's Asthma Drug Aces Late-Stage Study In Patients With Chronic Rhinosinusitis

&nbsp;"The top-line results from our Phase 3 WAYPOINT study represent a significant step forward in our commitment to enhancing the lives of those affected by chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps," said&nbsp;Jay Bradner, M.D., executive vice president of Research and Development and chief scientific officer at&nbsp;Amgen. "The data highlight tezepelumab's unique capacity to target multiple inflammatory pathways by acting directly at the epithelium, resulting in meaningful symptom relief that can improve patients' daily experiences."

Amgen And AstraZeneca Report Phase 3 Results: Tezspire Meets Both Primary Endpoints In Chronic Rhinosinusitis With Nasal Polyps Study

Just two weeks ago, Upstream Bio, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UPB#NASDAQ">UPB</a>) closed its upsized initial public offering (IPO) of 17.25 million shares at $17 per share, with gross proceeds of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/24/10/g41344387/upstream-bio-announces-closing-of-293-million-upsized-initial-public-offering-including-full-exerc" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">approximately $293 million</a>.
Upstream Bio is a clinical-stage biotechnology company developing treatments for inflammatory diseases with an initial focus on severe respiratory disorders.
<ul>
<li>Piper Sandler initiated coverage on Upstream Bio with an Overweight rating and a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/UPB/analyst-ratings" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">price target of $75</a>.</li>
<li>William Blair has also initiated coverage of Upstream Bio with an Outperform rating </li>
</ul>
Piper Sandler noted the company&#8217;s lead program, verekitug, has a differentiated mechanism of action that targets the TSLP receptor vs. ligand.
The TSLP ligand has been de-risked by AstraZeneca Plc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AZN#NASDAQ">AZN</a>) / Amgen Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMGN#NASDAQ">AMGN</a>) Tezspire&#8217;s 2021 approval in severe asthma, the analyst says. It represents a rapidly growing biologic market opportunity of over $7.5 billion.
Piper analyst writes, &#8220;verekitug&#8217;s key advantage is its durability given its high potency, enabling Q12W dosing and potentially up to Q24W dosing, which is significantly lower compared to other biologics such as Tezspire (Q4W dosing) and Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/REGN#NASDAQ">REGN</a>) / Sanofi SA&#8217;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SNY#NASDAQ">SNY</a>) Dupixent (Q2W dosing).
William Blair also based its rating on the blockbuster potential of verekitug in large indications, including asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
&#8220;The analyst writes that &#8220;Verekitug has the potential to deliver differentiated efficacy and longer dosing intervals than currently approved biologics for the treatment of asthma, most notably the TSLP antibody Tezspire, which targets the ligand.
William Blair writes that demonstrating clinical efficacy at least comparable to Tezspire, with dosing intervals of every three to six months, could position the therapy as a blockbuster, aligning with patient preferences for fewer doses.
However, early preclinical and clinical data for verekitug indicate a potential for even greater efficacy than Tezspire, which could exceed current baseline expectations.
Price Action: Upstream Bio stock is up 12.5% at $28.30 at last check Tuesday.
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/24/11/41753290/ferrari-slows-down-q3-shipment-drop-hits-the-brakes-on-stock-growth" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ferrari Slows Down, Q3 Shipment Drop Hits the Brakes On Stock Growth</a></li>
</ul>

Movers

REGN

Upstream Bio Is New On NASDAQ, Can Potentially Beat AstraZeneca's Asthma Drug On Efficacy, Analysts Say

This whale alert can help traders discover the next big trading opportunities.
Whales are entities with large sums of money and we track their transactions here at Benzinga on our options activity scanner.
Traders often look for circumstances when the market estimation of an option diverges away from its normal worth. Abnormal amounts of trading activity could push option prices to hyperbolic or underperforming levels. 
Below are some instances of options activity happening in the Health Care sector: 
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th>Open Interest</th>
<th>Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>ALLK</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>12/20/24</td>
<td>$1.00</td>
<td>$44.7K</td>
<td>552</td>
<td>2.3K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>HIMS</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$19.00</td>
<td>$57.0K</td>
<td>804</td>
<td>1.7K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>TEM</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$45.00</td>
<td>$40.6K</td>
<td>292</td>
<td>866</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>ZTS</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$210.00</td>
<td>$32.3K</td>
<td>1.6K</td>
<td>719</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>NVO</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$120.00</td>
<td>$142.8K</td>
<td>2.9K</td>
<td>504</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>LLY</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>11/15/24</td>
<td>$800.00</td>
<td>$26.5K</td>
<td>379</td>
<td>274</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>CVS</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$50.00</td>
<td>$232.6K</td>
<td>1.5K</td>
<td>235</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MRNA</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>04/17/25</td>
<td>$65.00</td>
<td>$55.0K</td>
<td>368</td>
<td>155</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>HUM</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>11/15/24</td>
<td>$285.00</td>
<td>$34.5K</td>
<td>428</td>
<td>155</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>AMGN</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$365.00</td>
<td>$53.5K</td>
<td>215</td>
<td>108</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h2>Explanation</h2>
These itemized elaborations have been created using the accompanying table. 
• Regarding ALLK (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ALLK#NASDAQ">ALLK</a>), we observe a call option sweep with bullish sentiment. It expires in 45 day(s) on December 20, 2024. Parties traded 819 contract(s) at a $1.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 23 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $44.7K, with a price of $55.0 per contract. There were 552 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 2319 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For HIMS (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HIMS#NYSE">HIMS</a>), we notice a put option sweep that happens to be bearish, expiring in 73 day(s) on January 17, 2025. This event was a transfer of 300 contract(s) at a $19.00 strike. This particular put needed to be split into 4 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $57.0K, with a price of $190.0 per contract. There were 804 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 1754 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding TEM (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TEM#NASDAQ">TEM</a>), we observe a call option sweep with bullish sentiment. It expires in 437 day(s) on January 16, 2026. Parties traded 58 contract(s) at a $45.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 23 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $40.6K, with a price of $700.0 per contract. There were 292 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 866 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding ZTS (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ZTS#NYSE">ZTS</a>), we observe a call option sweep with bearish sentiment. It expires in 73 day(s) on January 17, 2025. Parties traded 719 contract(s) at a $210.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 3 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $32.3K, with a price of $45.0 per contract. There were 1601 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 719 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For NVO (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVO#NYSE">NVO</a>), we notice a call option sweep that happens to be bearish, expiring in 73 day(s) on January 17, 2025. This event was a transfer of 340 contract(s) at a $120.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 24 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $142.8K, with a price of $420.0 per contract. There were 2969 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 504 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding LLY (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LLY#NYSE">LLY</a>), we observe a call option sweep with bullish sentiment. It expires in 10 day(s) on November 15, 2024. Parties traded 15 contract(s) at a $800.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 5 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $26.5K, with a price of $1773.0 per contract. There were 379 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 274 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding CVS (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CVS#NYSE">CVS</a>), we observe a call option sweep with bullish sentiment. It expires in 437 day(s) on January 16, 2026. Parties traded 227 contract(s) at a $50.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 35 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $232.6K, with a price of $1025.0 per contract. There were 1525 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 235 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding MRNA (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRNA#NASDAQ">MRNA</a>), we observe a call option sweep with bullish sentiment. It expires in 163 day(s) on April 17, 2025. Parties traded 77 contract(s) at a $65.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 22 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $55.0K, with a price of $715.0 per contract. There were 368 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 155 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For HUM (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HUM#NYSE">HUM</a>), we notice a call option trade that happens to be bearish, expiring in 10 day(s) on November 15, 2024. This event was a transfer of 75 contract(s) at a $285.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $34.5K, with a price of $460.0 per contract. There were 428 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 155 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For AMGN (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMGN#NASDAQ">AMGN</a>), we notice a call option sweep that happens to be bullish, expiring in 73 day(s) on January 17, 2025. This event was a transfer of 104 contract(s) at a $365.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 28 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $53.5K, with a price of $515.0 per contract. There were 215 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 108 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
Options Alert Terminology 
 - Call Contracts: The right to buy shares as indicated in the contract. 
 - Put Contracts: The right to sell shares as indicated in the contract. 
 - Expiration Date: When the contract expires. One must act on the contract by this date if one wants to use it. 
 - Premium/Option Price: The price of the contract. 
For more information, visit our <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/blog/how-to-understand-option-alerts/">Guide to Understanding Options Alerts</a> or read <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/options">more about unusual options activity</a>. 
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

ALLK

MRNA

UBS analyst Colin Bristow maintains Amgen (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMGN#NASDAQ">AMGN</a>) with a Neutral and lowers the price target from $335 to $326.

UBS Maintains Neutral on Amgen, Lowers Price Target to $326

Risk aversion swept across markets on Thursday as investor disappointment over third-quarter tech earnings triggered the steepest drop in major U.S. indices <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets">in nearly two months.</a>
Microsoft Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NYSE">MSFT</a>) plummeted over 5% by midday trading in New York, on track for its worst session in two years. Although the company surpassed earnings estimates, it forecasted slower growth in its Azure cloud business, dampening future revenue expectations.
Meta Platforms Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/META#NASDAQ">META</a>) also declined by over 4% despite a strong quarterly performance, as the social media giant projected &#8220;significant&#8221; capital expenditure growth next year, particularly for AI infrastructure.
The elite &#8220;Magnificent Seven&#8221; tech group shed nearly $500 billion in market capitalization within a single day after reaching a record high of $16.8 trillion. Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) and Amazon.com Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>) are set to report earnings after the market close.
In economic news, inflation sent mixed signals for September. The Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) price index slowed as expected to 2.1% annually, while the Fed's preferred inflation measure, the core PCE price index, remained at 2.7% year over year, slightly <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/economics/macro-economic-events/24/10/41658542/fed-interest-rate-cuts-expected-but-economists-warn-of-bumpy-course-in-this-last-">above the expected 2.6%.</a>
The S&amp;P 500 dropped 1.4%, and the tech-heavy Nasdaq 100 slid 2.2%, both tracking their worst session since Sept. 6. The CBOE Volatility Index (VIX) surged 12%.
Risk aversion also weighed on commodities, with gold prices dropping 1.7%, marking their worst day since July, and silver plunging 3% after a 2% decline on Wednesday. 
Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) slid 2.4%, and crypto-related stocks suffered significant losses. Coinbase Global Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/COIN#NASDAQ">COIN</a>) tumbled over 10% on disappointing earnings, eyeing its worst day since May.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Thursday&#8217;s Performance In Major US Indices, ETFs</h3>
<figure class="wp-block-table is-style-stripes"> 
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Major Indices</td>
<td>Price</td>
<td>1-day %chg</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dow Jones</td>
<td>41,832.30</td>
<td>-0.7%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Russell 2000</td>
<td>2,213.10</td>
<td>-0.9%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>S&amp;P 500</td>
<td>5,729.43</td>
<td>-1.4%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nasdaq 100</td>
<td>19,943.07</td>
<td>-2.2%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Updated at 12:20 p.m. ET</figcaption></figure>
According to <a href="https://bzresearch.myclickfunnels.com/benzinga-pro-content-webinar-registration/?utm_source=BZprocontent103124&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1">Benzinga Pro</a> data:
<ul>
<li>The&nbsp;SPDR S&amp;P 500 ETF Trust&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SPY#NYSE">SPY</a>) fell 1.5% to $571.51.</li>
<li>The&nbsp;SPDR Dow Jones Industrial Average&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DIA#NYSE">DIA</a>)&nbsp;fell 0.8% to $418.60.</li>
<li>The tech-heavy Invesco QQQ Trust Series (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QQQ#NASDAQ">QQQ</a>) tumbled 2.2% to $485.78. </li>
<li>The iShares Russell 2000 ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IWM#NYSE">IWM</a>) fell 0.7% to $219.65.</li>
<li>The Utilities Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLU#NYSE">XLU</a>) outperformed, rising 1.4%. The Technology Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLK#NYSE">XLK</a>) lagged, down 2.4%.</li>
</ul>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Thursday&#8217;s Stock Movers</h3>
Stocks reacting to corporate earnings were: 
<ul>
<li>Booking Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BKNG#NASDAQ">BKNG</a>), up over 5%, </li>
<li>Amgen Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMGN#NASDAQ">AMGN</a>), up 1.7%,</li>
<li>Starbucks Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SBUX#NYSE">SBUX</a>), down 0.6%, </li>
<li>eBay Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EBAY#NASDAQ">EBAY</a>), down over 8%, </li>
<li>MicroStrategy Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSTR#NASDAQ">MSTR</a>), up 1.9%,</li>
<li>Carvana Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CVNA#NYSE">CVNA</a>), up 24%,</li>
<li>Mastercard Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MA#NYSE">MA</a>), down 1.8%, </li>
<li>Merck &amp; Company Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>), down 2.8%,</li>
<li>Linde plc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LIN#NASDAQ">LIN</a>), down 2.9%, </li>
<li>Comcast Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CMCSA#NASDAQ">CMCSA</a>), up 2.9%, </li>
<li>Uber Technologies Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UBER#NYSE">UBER</a>), down over 11%, </li>
<li>Eaton Corp. plc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ETN#NYSE">ETN</a>), down 5%, </li>
<li>ConocoPhillips (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/COP#NYSE">COP</a>), up 6%, </li>
<li>Bristo-Myers Squibb Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BMY#NYSE">BMY</a>), up 3.3%, </li>
<li>Southern Company (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SO#NYSE">SO</a>), up 2.2%, </li>
<li>Altria Group Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MO#NYSE">MO</a>), up 7.6%, </li>
<li>Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/REGN#NASDAQ">REGN</a>), down 9%, </li>
<li>The Cigna Group (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CI#NYSE">CI</a>), up 3%, </li>
<li>Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NCLH#NYSE">NCLH</a>), up over 9%. </li>
<li>Cheniere Energy Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LNG#NYSE">LNG</a>), up over 5%. </li>
</ul>
Large-cap companies slated to report their earnings after the close include Apple Inc, Amazon.com Inc, Intel Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/INTC#NASDAQ">INTC</a>), Atlassian Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TEAM#NASDAQ">TEAM</a>) and Coterra Energy Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CTRA#NYSE">CTRA</a>).
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/10/41658754/microsoft-in-major-growth-mode-not-slowing-down-4-analysts-see-strong-azure-demand-">Microsoft &#8216;In Major Growth Mode,&#8217; Not Slowing Down: 4 Analysts See Strong Azure Demand, AI Monetization Efforts</a></li>
</ul>
Image created using artificial intelligence via Midjourney.

Macro Economic Events

Mid Cap

Broad U.S. Equity ETFs

Commodities

Econ #s

Economics

Federal Reserve

Tech

ETFs

$BTC

AAPL

AMZN

BKNG

CMCSA

COIN

CTRA

CVNA

SPDR Dow Jones Industrial Average ETF Trust

EBAY

INTC

MSFT

MSTR

NCLH

SBUX

TEAM

UBER

Stocks Tumble, Nasdaq 100 Selloffs As Tech Giants Disappoint, Crypto Companies Plummet: What's Driving Markets Thursday?

Amgen ($AMGN) stock is rising again after the biopharmaceutical producer addressed a recent data leak involving its weight loss drug's impact on bo...

Amgen (NASDAQ:AMGN) Stock Rises Again After Bone Density Data Leak

Amgen Inc. (AMGN) UBS Global Healthcare Conference (Transcript)

Citi initiated coverage of Amgen (AMGN) with a Neutral rating and $335 price target The company's growth picture hinges on MariTide clinical succes...

Amgen initiated with a Neutral at Citi

The most talked about and market moving research calls around Wall Street are now in one place. Here are today's research calls that investors need...

American upgraded, Regeneron initiated: Wall Street's top analyst calls

Bullish option flow detected in Amgen (AMGN) with 8,403 calls trading, 2x expected, and implied vol increasing over 3 points to 49.64%. Jan-25 295 ...

Amgen call volume above normal and directionally bullish

Gilead, Vertex initiated as new big biotech buys at Citi

Wolfe Research initiated coverage of Amgen (AMGN) with a Peer Perform rating. Published first on TheFly – the ultimate source for real-time, market...

Amgen initiated with a Peer Perform at Wolfe Research

Amgen (AMGN) announced the presentation of new data across its rare disease portfolio and pipeline at the annual American College of Rheumatology –...

Amgen's Uplizna shows potential efficacy in rare inflammatory diseases

With increasing chronic diseases, demand for personalized medicines, and adoption of AI, the biotech market is booming. Therefore, it could be wise to invest in solid biotech stocks Amgen (AMGN), Regeneron Pharmaceuticals (REGN), and Gilead Sciences (GILD) for substantial returns. Read more... With the rapidly increasing drug discovery and sequential approvals, surging R&amp;D initiatives, coupled with recent Fed rate cuts likely to encourage funding and investing, the biotech industry is positioned to experience solid growth. Also, advancements in technologies are swiftly accelerating the prospects of the market.
Given the industry's positive prospects, it could be ideal to invest in fundamentally strong biotech stocks Amgen Inc. (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/AMGN/">AMGN</a>), Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/REGN/">REGN</a>), and Gilead Sciences, Inc. (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/GILD/">GILD</a>) with promising pipelines.
The role of the biotech industry in today's generation is continuously expanding with increasing incidents of chronic diseases and conditions, rising demand for personalized medicine, and rapid acceleration in drug discovery fueled by the application of cutting-edge technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI).
Over 38 new drugs have been approved by the <a href="https://www.fda.gov/drugs/novel-drug-approvals-fda/novel-drug-approvals-2024">U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)</a> this year to address conditions such as schizophrenia, urinary tract infections, breast cancer, and lung cancer and to treat Alzheimer's disease. The increased drug discovery and intense research and development (R&amp;D) will potentially accelerate further breakthroughs.
Also, the biotech industry is poised to capitalize on the <a href="https://www.biopharmadive.com/news/biotech-interest-rates-impact-startups-venture-capital/727479/#:~:text=During%20the%20Fed's%20recent%20tightening,for%20those%20companies%20already%20public.">Federal Reserve's recent interest rate cut</a>. The rate cut resulted in lower borrowing costs. It could potentially lead to increased investment and improve the market sentiment.
Moreover, the global biotechnology market is expected to reach $4.61 trillion by 2034, growing at a <a href="https://www.precedenceresearch.com/biotechnology-market#:~:text=The%20global%20biotechnology%20market%20size%20accounted%20for%20USD%201.55%20trillion%20in%202024%20and%20is%20expected%20to%20reach%20around%20USD%204.61%20trillion%20by%202034%2C%20expanding%20at%20a%20CAGR%20of%2011.5%25%20from%202024%20to%202034.">CAGR of 11.5%</a>. The U.S. biotechnology market is predicted to be worth around $830.31 billion by 2034. Strong R&amp;D initiatives, increasing drug approvals, and improvement of healthcare infrastructure are driving the market growth.
Further, the increasing application of generative AI in Biotech to design novel molecules, proteins, and drugs is revolutionizing the drug discovery and development processes. With this accelerating innovation and drug candidate identification, the <a href="https://www.pharmiweb.com/press-release/2024-04-15/generative-ai-in-biotech-market-to-skyrocket-to-usd-472-million-by-2032-marketresearchbiz#:~:text=Generative%20AI%20in%20Biotech%20utilizes,innovation%20and%20drug%20candidate%20identification.">generative AI in the biotech market</a> is expected to grow to $472 million by 2032 at a CAGR of 24.9%.
Considering the encouraging economic trends, let's delve into the fundamentals of the top three <a href="https://stocknews.com/category/biotech/">Biotech</a> stocks, beginning with the third choice.
Stock #3: Amgen Inc. (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/AMGN/">AMGN</a>)
AMGN discovers, develops, manufactures, and delivers human therapeutics globally. The company's principal products include Enbrel, Otezla, Prolia, XGEVA, Repatha, Nplate, KYPROLIS, Aranesp, EVENITY, Vectibix, BLINCYTO, TEPEZZA, and KRYSTEXXA.
On August 20, AMGN announced the availability of Otezla&#xAE; (apremilast) in the U.S. for pediatric use. The U.S. FDA approved Otezla earlier this year for treating moderate to severe plaque psoriasis in children and adolescents ages 6 and older who weigh at least 20 kg (44 lb) and are candidates for phototherapy or systemic therapy.
This is currently the first and only FDA-approved oral medication for children and adolescents ages 6-17 with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis.
On June 14, AMGN announced that the FDA approved BLINCYTO to treat adult and pediatric patients one month or older with CD19-positive Philadelphia chromosome-negative B-cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia in the consolidation phase.
BLINCYTO is the first and only globally approved Bispecific T-cell Engager (BiTE&#xAE;) immuno-oncology therapy that targets CD19 surface antigens on B cells. It demonstrated superior overall survival versus chemotherapy alone.
During the third quarter that ended September 30, 2024, AMGN reported total revenues of $8.50 billion, up 23.2% year-over-over. Its non-GAAP <a href="https://www.investopedia.com/terms/o/operatingincome.asp">operating income</a> grew 18.8% from the year-ago value to $4.04 billion. The company's non-GAAP net income and EPS amounted to $3.02 billion and $5.58, indicating increases of 13.4% and 12.5% from the prior year's quarter, respectively.
Furthermore, the company's free cash flow rose 32% from the prior year period to $3.30 billion.
For the full year 2024, AMGN expects total revenues in the range of $33 billion to $33.80 billion and non-GAAP EPS in the range of $19.20 to $20.00.
Analysts expect AMGN's revenue and EPS for the fourth quarter (ending December 2024) to grow 8.2% and 8.3% year-over-year to $8.87 billion and $5.10, respectively. Also, the company topped the consensus EPS and revenue estimates in three of the four trailing quarters.
Shares of AMGN have surged 16.9% over the past six months and 25.2% over the past year to close the last trading session at $320.16.
AMGN's solid fundamentals are reflected in its <a href="https://stocknews.com/powr-ratings/">POWR Ratings</a>. The stock has an overall rating of B, which translates to a Buy in our proprietary rating system. The POWR Ratings are calculated by considering 118 different factors, each weighted to an optimal degree.
AMGN has a B grade for Quality. It is ranked #25 out of 329 stocks in the <a href="https://stocknews.com/category/biotech/">Biotech</a> industry.
In addition to the POWR Ratings we've stated above, we also have AMGN ratings for Value, Momentum, Stability, Growth, and Sentiment. Get all AMGN ratings <a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/AMGN/">here</a>.
Stock #2: Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/REGN/">REGN</a>)
REGN discovers, invents, develops, manufactures, and commercializes medicines for treating various diseases worldwide. The company's products include EYLEA injection, myopic choroidal neovascularization, diabetic retinopathy, neovascular glaucoma, and retinopathy of prematurity.
On October 18, REGN announced positive three-year data for EYLEA HD&#xAE; (aflibercept) Injection 8 mg from an extension study of the Phase 3 PHOTON trial in patients with diabetic macular edema (DME). Patients who switched to EYLEA HD experienced substantially slower fluid reaccumulation.
The phase 3 PHOTON trial continued to demonstrate that EYLEA HD can safely provide meaningful and lasting vision and anatomical benefits for people living with diabetic macular edema and can prove to be revolutionary for the patients.
On September 27, REGN and Sanofi received FDA approval for Dupixent&#xAE; (dupilumab) as an add-on maintenance treatment for adults with inadequately controlled chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and an eosinophilic phenotype. This marked Dupixent as the first biological medicine approved in the U.S. to treat these patients.
During the third quarter that ended September 30, 2024, REGN's revenues increased 10.6% year-over-year to $3.72 billion. Its income from operations increased 6.2% from the year-ago value to $1.18 billion. The company's non-GAAP net income came in at $1.46 billion or $12.46 per share, indicating growth of 10% and 7.5% year-over-year, respectively.
Street expects REGN's revenue for the first quarter (ending March 2025) to increase 16.4% year-over-year to $3.66 billion, while its EPS is expected to grow 19.7% year-over-year to $11.43, respectively. Furthermore, the company surpassed the consensus revenue and EPS estimates in three of the trailing four quarters.
REGN's stock has gained 7.5% over the past year to close the last trading session at $838.20.
REGN's bright prospects are reflected in its POWR Ratings. The stock has an overall rating of A, equating to a Strong Buy in our proprietary rating system.
The stock has a B grade for Value and Quality. REGN is ranked #9 among 329 stocks in the Biotech industry.
<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/REGN/">Click here</a> to access REGN's ratings for Momentum, Growth, Stability, and Sentiment.
Stock #1: Gilead Sciences, Inc. (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/GILD/">GILD</a>)
GILD is a biopharmaceutical company that discovers, develops, and commercializes medicines in the areas of unmet medical needs internationally. The company provides products like Biktarvy, Genvoya, Descovy, Odefsey, Truvada, Complera/ Eviplera, Stribild, Sunlencs, and Atripla.
On October 31, GILD and AbTherx, a biotechnology company with innovative technologies, expanded their previous agreement to develop novel antibody discovery technologies and discover therapeutic antibodies for Gilead-selected targets. The expanded partnership will include additional technologies and multiple new research programs.
On October 02, GILD entered into a non-exclusive, royalty-free voluntary licensing agreement with Hetero, India's leading pharmaceutical company, to manufacture and distribute lenacapavir in 120 countries. The strategic agreement is in line with GILD's vision and will broaden access to lenacapavir, the innovative HIV treatment used in combination with other antiretroviral.
The partnership will aid the efforts to prevent HIV through pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP).
During the second quarter that ended June 30, 2024, GILD's total revenues were up 5.4% year-over-year to $6.95 billion, and its operating income grew 58.8% from the prior year quarter to $2.64 billion. Also, the company's non-GAAP net income and EPS totaled $2.52 billion and $2.01, up 49.2% and 50% from the prior year's quarter, respectively.
As per the company's full-year guidance, GILD projects product sales to range between $27.10 billion and $27.50 billion. It also expects non-GAAP EPS to be between $3.60 and $3.90, an increase from the previous $3.45 to $3.85 guidance.
Street expects GILD's revenue for the fiscal year (ending December 2025) to increase 1.1% year-over-year to $28.05 billion, and its EPS for the same period is expected to grow 91.9% year-over-year to $7.26. Also, the company surpassed the consensus revenue estimates in all trailing four quarters, which is impressive.
GILD's stock has gained 36.2% over the past six months and 13.1% over the past year to close the last trading session at $88.82.
GILD's POWR Ratings reflect its robust outlook. The stock has an overall rating of A, which translates to a Strong Buy in our proprietary rating system.
The stock has an A grade for Value. It also has a B grade for Sentiment and Quality. Within the same industry, GILD is ranked #3 among 329 stocks.
<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/GILD/">Click here</a> to access additional ratings of GILD for Momentum, Growth, and Stability.
What To Do Next?
43 year investment veteran, Steve Reitmeister, has just released his 2024 market outlook along with trading plan and top 11 picks for the year ahead.
<a href="https://report.stocknews.com/sign-up/stock-market-outlook-2024/?formplacement=artbotad_smo24_rep">2024 Stock Market Outlook &gt;</a>

<hr />
AMGN shares were unchanged in after-hours trading Friday. Year-to-date, AMGN has gained 13.28%, versus a 21.27% rise in the benchmark S&amp;P 500 index during the same period.
<hr><div style="clear:both;"></div> <h2>About the Author: Rjkumari Saxena</h2> <img src='https:/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Rajkumari-Saxena_Image-1.jpeg' style="float:left; padding:5px;width:125px;">Rajkumari started her career as a writer but gradually shifted her focus to financial journalism, leveraging her educational background in Commerce. Fascinated by the interplay of business and economic shifts in equities, she aspires to evolve as an analyst. With a knack for simplifying complex financial concepts, her mission is to empower investors with insights that lead to profitable decisions.<a href="https://stocknews.com/authors/?author=rajkumari-saxena">More...</a>The post <a href=https://stocknews.com/news/amgn-gild-regn-3-biotechnology-stocks-with-promising-pipelines/>3 Biotechnology Stocks With Promising Pipelines</a> appeared first on <a href=https://stocknews.com/>StockNews.com</a>

3 Biotechnology Stocks With Promising Pipelines

Wolfe Research analyst Alexandria Hammond initiated coverage of Amgen (AMGN) with a Peer Perform rating. With the antibody backbone, the firm is ac...

Comments

Amgen

Noticias

Últimas noticias sobre Amgen (NASDAQ:AMGN) Bolsa

La gente también mira

Noticias

SOCIO/CONTRIBUIDOR

BENZINGA GLOBAL