Friday - UBS has increased the price target for Amgen (NASDAQ:AMGN) shares to $337 from the previous target of $307, while keeping a Neutral stance on the stock. The adjustment reflects an optimistic view of the company's product performance and future prospects.
The firm's analysis aligns with the consensus revenue estimate for the second quarter of 2024, anticipating $8.3 billion. Notably, UBS projects higher sales for Repatha and Evenity, both of which have exhibited robust prescription trends. This positive forecast, however, is tempered by a projected dip in Tepezza sales, where growth in both the U.S. and international markets has been limited.
At the earnings per share (EPS) level, UBS's estimate is $4.92 for the quarter, slightly below the consensus estimate of $4.97. Despite this, the focus remains on MariTide, especially after the stock's rise following the announcement of encouraging phase 2 interim results during the first quarter's earnings call. Rocatinlimab (OX40) is also under the spotlight, with phase 3 HORIZON data for atopic dermatitis expected later in the second half of 2024.
The revised price target is grounded in a valuation that applies a 16.5 times multiple to the company's projected 2025 earnings per share, which is an increase from the previous 15 times multiple. This change is attributed to the higher growth potential following successful interim results from the MariTide phase 2 study and positive developments in other inflammation and immunology pipelines, including Tezspire, Blincyto, and Uplizna. The valuation method is further supported by a discounted cash flow (DCF) analysis.
In other recent news, Amgen received a price target boost from Argus, reflecting confidence in the company's robust product pipeline. The company reported 25% volume growth in existing products and is expanding globally with submissions of teprotumumab for regulatory review in multiple countries. Moreover, Amgen's revenue is expected to benefit from the introduction of new drugs, biosimilars, and products obtained through mergers and acquisitions.
RBC Capital Markets has increased its price target for Amgen shares, maintaining an Outperform rating, due to optimism surrounding the firm's obesity treatment program, MariTide, and its broader cardiometabolic portfolio. Furthermore, Amgen announced an 87% reduction in flares for patients with Immunoglobulin G4-related disease in a Phase 3 clinical trial for UPLIZNA, indicating plans to seek regulatory approval for UPLIZNA as a treatment for this disease in the U.S. and other key markets.
ARK ETFs, managed by Cathie Wood, acquired 13,622 shares of Amgen, signaling a positive outlook on the company's growth prospects. In the weight-loss drug market, Amgen is expecting results from mid-stage trials of its drug Maritide later this year.
Wells Fargo reaffirmed its Overweight rating on Amgen, focusing on the ongoing developments of Amgen's Tezepelumab therapy. BMO Capital also maintained an Outperform rating and a $355.00 price target on Amgen shares.
InvestingPro Insights
As UBS updates its stance on Amgen, real-time data from InvestingPro provides a broader context for investors considering the stock. Amgen has a strong track record of rewarding shareholders, having raised its dividend for 14 consecutive years. This commitment to consistent dividend payments underscores the company's financial stability and dedication to returning value to its investors. Moreover, Amgen's stock has shown a robust return over the last three months, with a 22.49% price total return, indicating a bullish trend in investor sentiment.
From a valuation perspective, Amgen's market capitalization stands at $177.88 billion, reflecting its significant presence in the biotechnology industry. With a high Price / Book ratio of 35.2 as of the last twelve months leading up to Q1 2024, the company is trading at a premium, which is often characteristic of industry leaders with solid growth prospects. Furthermore, Amgen's revenue growth of 12.76% during the same period signals a strong financial performance that may justify its high earnings multiple of 39.97.
Investors looking for more insights can find additional InvestingPro Tips for Amgen, including analysis on its earnings multiple and stock volatility. For those seeking to delve deeper, using the coupon code PRONEWS24, investors can get up to 10% off a yearly Pro and a yearly or biyearly Pro+ subscription, unlocking a wealth of information, including the 12 additional tips available on InvestingPro.
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