Biotech stocks continue to be a robust sector of the stock market. An aging population with increasing healthcare demands, combined with rapidly growing and improving technology, supports the growth of biotech stocks. The biotech industry is highly competitive and incredibly diverse, with a few companies managing to stand out and make a name for themselves.
Biotech stocks can be highly volatile, and some investors choose to diversify their exposure through biotech-focused exchange traded funds (ETFs) or mutual funds to mitigate some of the risks while allowing investors to benefit from the sector's overall growth. Some top ETFs tracking companies in the biotech sector are the SPDR S&P Biotech ETF (NYSEARCA: XBI), iShares Biotechnology ETF (NASDAQ : IBB), and ALPS Medical Breakthroughs ETF (NYSEARCA: SBIO).
Let’s take a look at some of the top biotech companies in the world.
Vertex Pharmaceuticals (NASDAQ: VRTX)
Vertex focuses on treatments for cystic fibrosis and has seen strong growth in recent years. The company ranks highly among biotech companies and is exploring gene editing as a treatment for muscular dystrophy and sickle cell anemia. Vertex’s rapid profit growth makes it an attractive investment.
Regeneron Pharmaceuticals (NASDAQ: REGN)
Regeneron has a robust pipeline of drugs, including successful treatments like EYLEA for eye diseases and Dupixent for autoimmune diseases, as well as promising candidates like odronextamab for follicular lymphoma. The company invests heavily in R&D, leading to breakthroughs in treatments for serious conditions, positioning it as a leader in the biotech industry.
Moderna (NASDAQ: MRNA)
Known for its COVID-19 vaccine, Moderna is developing new vaccines and treatments including a flu/COVID-19 combination vaccine expected by 2025 and an RSV vaccine candidate that could be approved soon. The company is investing heavily in mRNA technology for other vaccines and treatments.
Amgen (NASDAQ: AMGN)
As one of the largest biotech companies, Amgen has a diverse portfolio of drugs for various conditions. The company is valued at over $100 billion and offers a generous dividend yield, making it a stable investment.
BioMarin Pharmaceutical (NASDAQ: BMRN)
BioMarin focuses on rare diseases and gene therapies. Its significant products include Vimizim, Voxzogo, and Roctavian, which have shown substantial sales growth.
Gilead Sciences (NASDAQ: GILD)
A leader in both HIV and liver diseases, Gildead is known for its revolutionary treatment for Hepatitis C released in 2014. The company has a strong pipeline with promising therapies in development, particularly in oncology and virology, which are expected to drive future growth. Gilead has also made strategic acquisitions to bolster its R&D capabilities and expand its market presence.
Legend Biotech (NASDAQ: LEGN)
This clinical-stage biopharma company specializes in cell therapies for cancer. Its breakthrough CAR-T cell therapy, Carvykti, has shown significant efficacy in treating multiple myeloma. In addition, the company has collaborated with Johnson & Johnson’s Janssen unit.
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