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    Ligand Reports Second Quarter 2024 Financial Results

    8/6/24 4:01:00 PM ET
    $AGEN
    $AMGN
    $CASI
    $LGND
    Biotechnology: Biological Products (No Diagnostic Substances)
    Health Care
    Biotechnology: Biological Products (No Diagnostic Substances)
    Health Care
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    Conference call at 4:30 p.m. Eastern Time today

    Ligand Pharmaceuticals Incorporated (NASDAQ:LGND) today reported financial results for the three and six months ended June 30, 2024, and provided an operating forecast and business update. Ligand management will host a conference call and webcast today at 4:30 p.m. Eastern Time to discuss this announcement and answer questions.

    "We had a strong quarter and are on track to meet the long-term growth objectives we outlined in December," said Todd Davis, CEO of Ligand. "We added four new commercial-stage programs in the first half of this year, including QARZIBA®, an orphan oncology product we acquired following the APEIRON Biologics transaction, Merck's CAPVAXIVE™ and Verona Pharma's Ohtuvayre™, which received FDA approval in the second quarter, and Pelthos' ZELSUVMI™ which was approved by the FDA earlier this year. Also, our partner, Primrose Bio secured additional outside capital which will enable them to continue building their business, fortifying the value of our long-term interest in the company. These developments underscore our commitment to expand our royalty portfolio, which now includes 12 major commercial-stage programs, double the number of programs we had at the beginning of 2023."

    Second Quarter 2024 Financial Results

    Total revenues and other income for the second quarter of 2024 were $41.5 million, compared with $26.4 million for the same period in 2023 with the increase primarily due to an increase in royalty revenue and milestone payments earned upon the approval of several key programs. Royalties for the second quarter of 2024 were $23.2 million, compared with $20.9 million for the same period in 2023, with the increase primarily attributable to an increase in sales of Travere Therapeutics' (NASDAQ:TVTX) FILSPARI™ and Amgen's (NASDAQ:AMGN) KYPROLIS®. Captisol® sales were $7.5 million for the second quarter of 2024, compared with $5.2 million for the same period in 2023, with the change due to the timing of customer orders. Contract revenue and other income was $10.9 million for the second quarter of 2024, compared with $0.2 million for the same period in 2023, with the increase driven by the $5.8 million milestone payment earned upon FDA approval of Ohtuvayre, the $2.0 million milestone payment earned upon FDA approval of CAPVAXIVE, and the $2.3 million milestone payment earned upon the conditional marketing approval of FILSPARI by the European Commission.

    Cost of Captisol was $2.9 million for the second quarter of 2024, compared with $1.7 million for the same period in 2023, with the increase due to higher Captisol sales. Amortization of intangibles was $8.3 million for the second quarter of 2024, compared with $8.5 million for the same period in 2023. Research and development expense was $5.4 million for the second quarter of 2024, compared with $6.9 million for the same period in 2023, with the decrease primarily attributed to lower employee related expenses and lab supplies resulting from the Pelican spin-off in September 2023. The decrease was partially offset by the additional operating costs associated with incubating the Pelthos business. General and administrative expense was $17.6 million for the second quarter of 2024, compared with $11.3 million for the same period in 2023, with the increase primarily attributed to higher stock-based compensation and operating costs associated with incubating the Pelthos business.

    GAAP net loss from continuing operations for the second quarter of 2024 was $51.9 million, or $2.88 per share, compared with GAAP net income from continuing operations of $2.3 million, or $0.13 per diluted share, for the same period in 2023. GAAP net loss from continuing operations for the second quarter of 2024 included a $13.8 million non-cash unrealized loss from short-term investments associated with Viking Therapeutics (NASDAQ:VKTX) stock, a $26.5 million decrease in the carrying value of our investments, primarily in connection with Takeda Pharmaceutical's (NYSE:TAK) soticlestat, and a $33.8 million decrease in our investments in Primrose Bio (private). Our equity ownership interest in Primrose Bio has decreased from 49.9% to 34.3% in connection with their recent financing round. The financing round was at a valuation below the value arrived at when we spun out the Pelican business in September 2023, which resulted in a non-cash reduction in the carrying value of our investment. Adjusted net income from continuing operations for the second quarter of 2024 was $25.8 million, or $1.40 per diluted share, compared to $25.1 million, or $1.42 per diluted share, for the same period in 2023. Excluding the impact of gains from sales of Viking Therapeutics stock in the second quarter of 2023, core adjusted net income from continuing operations for the second quarter of 2023 was $11.7 million, or $0.66 per diluted share. We did not sell any shares of Viking Therapeutics stock in the second quarter of 2024. The increase in core adjusted net income is driven primarily by the 58% increase in revenue. See the table below for a reconciliation of net income from continuing operations to adjusted net income from continuing operations.

    As of June 30, 2024, Ligand had cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments of $226.9 million which includes $53.0 million in Viking Therapeutics common stock. In May 2024, Ligand entered into a collar option agreement to hedge against Viking Therapeutics stock price fluctuation risk. Ligand recorded a $15.2 million unrealized gain associated with the collar option agreement during the second quarter of 2024 and the value of that derivative asset is classified as other current assets. On July 8, 2024, Ligand entered into an amended credit agreement with Citibank, N.A., which expands the existing $75 million revolving credit facility to $125 million with a maturity date of October 12, 2026.

    Year-to-Date Financial Results

    Total revenues and other income for the six months ended June 30, 2024 were $72.5 million, compared with $70.3 million for the same period in 2023. Royalties for the six months ended June 30, 2024 were $42.3 million, compared with $38.6 million for the same period in 2023, with the increase primarily attributable to Amgen's KYPROLIS, Jazz Pharmaceuticals' RYLAZE, Merck and Co.'s (NYSE:MRK) VAXNEUVANCE and Travere Therapeutics' FILSPARI, partially offset by a decline in royalties in CASI Pharmaceuticals Inc.'s (NASDAQ:CASI) EVOMELA® and Alvogen's teriparatide. Captisol sales were $16.7 million for the six months ended June 30, 2024, compared with $15.8 million for the same period in 2023, with the change due to the timing of customer orders. Contract revenue and other income was $13.5 million for the six months ended June 30, 2024, compared with $15.9 million for the same period in 2023, with the decrease driven by a $15.3 million milestone payment earned from Travere Therapeutics upon the FDA approval of FILSPARI in the prior year period, partially offset by the above mentioned current year milestone payments earned.

    Cost of Captisol was $5.8 million for the six months ended June 30, 2024, compared with $5.4 million for the same period in 2023, with the increase due to higher total Captisol sales. Amortization of intangibles was $16.4 million for the six months ended June 30, 2024, compared with $17.1 million for the same period in 2023. Research and development expense was $11.3 million for the six months ended June 30, 2024, compared with $13.5 million for the same period in 2023, with the decrease primarily attributed to lower employee related expenses and lab supplies resulting from the Pelican spin-off in September 2023. The decrease was partially offset by additional costs associated with incubating the Pelthos business. General and administrative expense was $28.6 million for the six months ended June 30, 2024, compared with $22.1 million for the same period in 2023, with the increase driven by higher stock-based compensation expense and additional costs associated with incubating the Pelthos business.

    GAAP net income from continuing operations for the six months ended June 30, 2024 was $34.2 million, or $1.87 per diluted share, compared with GAAP net income from continuing operations of $45.9 million, or $2.57 per diluted share, for the same period in 2023. The decrease in GAAP net income from continuing operations from the prior year period is due primarily to a $26.5 million decrease mainly in the fair value of our investment in Takeda's soticlestat and a $36.1 million decrease in our investments in Primrose Bio during the six months ended June 30, 2024, partially offset by the realized gains from short-term investments associated with Viking Therapeutics stock of $60.0 million. Adjusted net income from continuing operations for the six months ended June 30, 2024 was $95.5 million, or $5.23 per diluted share, compared to $65.0 million, or $3.69 per diluted share, for the same period in 2023. Excluding the impact of gains from sales of Viking Therapeutics stock, core adjusted net income from continuing operations for the six months ended June 30, 2024 was $47.6 million, or $2.61 per diluted share, compared with $35.1 million, or $1.99 per diluted share, for the same period in 2023. The increase in core adjusted net income is primarily driven by the increase in adjusted operating income. See the table below for a reconciliation of net income from continuing operations to adjusted net income from continuing operations.

    2024 Financial Guidance

    Ligand is reaffirming its 2024 financial guidance given on July 8, 2024. The Company expects 2024 royalties to range from $100 million to $105 million, sales of Captisol to range from $25 million to $27 million, and contract revenue to range from $15 million to $25 million. These revenue components result in total revenue forecast of $140 million to $157 million. Core adjusted earnings per diluted share are expected to range from approximately $5.00 to $5.50. This guidance excludes the $60 million realized gain from short-term investments on the sale of Viking Therapeutics stock.

    Adjusted Financial Measures

    Ligand reports adjusted net income and adjusted net income per diluted share in addition to, and not as a substitute for, or superior to, financial measures calculated in accordance with GAAP. The Company's financial measures under GAAP include share-based compensation expense, amortization of debt-related costs, amortization related to acquisitions and intangible assets, amortization of financial royalty assets, changes in contingent liabilities, mark-to-market adjustments for amounts relating to its equity investments in public companies, excess tax benefit from share-based compensation, Pelthos operating loss, impairment of financial royalty assets, loss from equity method investment in Primrose Bio, income tax effect of adjusted reconciling items and others that are listed in the itemized reconciliations between GAAP and adjusted financial measures included at the end of this press release. However, the Company does not provide reconciliations of such forward-looking adjusted measures to GAAP due to the inherent difficulty in forecasting and quantifying certain amounts that are necessary for such reconciliation, including non-cash adjustments that could be made for changes in contingent liabilities, changes in the market value of its investments in public companies, share-based compensation expense and the effects of any discrete income tax items. Management has excluded the effects of these items in its adjusted measures to assist investors in analyzing and assessing the Company's past and future core operating performance. Additionally, adjusted earnings per diluted share is a key component of the financial metrics utilized by the Company's board of directors to measure, in part, management's performance and determine significant elements of management's compensation.

    Second Quarter 2024 and Recent Updates

    Business Highlights

    On July 8, Ligand announced the $100 million acquisition of APEIRON Biologics, a private biotech company based in Vienna, Austria. Apeiron holds the royalty rights to QARZIBA (dinutuximab beta) for the treatment of high-risk neuroblastoma. QARZIBA was approved by the European Medicines Agency in 2017 and is commercially available today in more than 35 countries. QARZIBA is marketed outside of mainland China by the global pharmaceutical company Recordati S.p.A., which acquired EUSA Pharma (UK) Limited in 2022.

    On July 8, Ligand also amended its revolving credit facility with Citibank. The Credit Agreement was amended to, among other things, increase the aggregate revolving credit facility amount from $75 million to $125 million.

    On July 24, Palvella Therapeutics, Inc. (private) announced a merger agreement with Pieris Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (NASDAQ:PIRS) in which Palvella anticipates becoming a publicly traded rare disease company upon the close of the merger. In connection with the proposed merger, Palvella secured commitments from a syndicate of leading specialist biotech investors in an oversubscribed $78.9 million concurrent private financing.

    The transaction will help advance several clinical milestones for Palvella:

    • A Phase 3 pivotal study of QTORIN 3.9% rapamycin anhydrous gel for the treatment of microcystic lymphatic malformations, a serious, rare genetic and lifelong disease for which there are no FDA-approved therapies. The disease impacts more than 30,000 diagnosed patients in the U.S. QTORIN rapamycin has been granted FDA's Breakthrough Therapy, Fast Track, and Orphan Designations for the treatment of microcystic lymphatic malformations.
    • A Phase 2 study of QTORIN rapamycin for the treatment of cutaneous venous malformations. Cutaneous venous malformations are a serious, rare genetic disease which can cause functional impairment, significantly impact quality of life, and are associated with severe long-term complications. QTORIN rapamycin has been granted FDA's Fast Track Designation for the treatment of venous malformations.

    Notably, if approved, QTORIN™ rapamycin has the potential to be the first approved therapy and standard of care in the U.S. for microcystic lymphatic malformations and cutaneous venous malformations.

    As background, Palvella was originally sourced through Ligand's proactive deal origination efforts. Since Ligand's first transaction with Palvella, the company has secured significant subsequent equity funding from leading biotech investors, including BVF Partners, Petrichor, Samsara BioCapital, and others. Ligand is entitled to a royalty of 8-9.8% on worldwide commercial sales of QTORIN rapamycin. In addition to Ligand's royalty, Ligand anticipates owning approximately 2% of the combined company following the close of the reverse merger and concurrent financing.

    Portfolio Updates

    On July 18, Agenus Inc. (NASDAQ:AGEN), announced the results of its end-of-Phase 2 meeting with the FDA, for the advancement of its immunotherapy combination, botensilimab (BOT) and balstilimab (BAL), for the treatment of adult patients with relapsed/refractory microsatellite stable colorectal cancer (r/r MSS CRC) with no active liver metastases (NLM). Agenus received clarity from the FDA on their Phase III dosing regimen, which is an important achievement. The company also announced topline interim data from its Phase 2 trial, which are showing trends consistent with the Phase 1 study, including an ORR of 19.4% and 6-month survival rate of 90% for the BOT 75mg/BAL combination. The safety profile was manageable and no new signals were observed. Agenus plans to continue future discussions with the FDA as the Phase 2 data mature and will present these data in totality at an upcoming medical conference.

    On June 26, Verona Pharma plc (NASDAQ:VRNA) announced FDA approval of Ohtuvayre (ensifentrine), the first inhaled product with a novel mechanism of action available for the maintenance treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in adult patients in more than 20 years. Ohtuvayre is a first-in-class selective dual inhibitor of the enzymes phosphodiesterase 3 phosphodiesterase 4 ("PDE3 and PDE4") that combines bronchodilator and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory effects in one molecule. Ligand earned a $5.8 million milestone payment upon FDA approval of Ohtuvayre and will earn an additional $13.8 million upon its commercial launch which is expected to occur during the third quarter of 2024. Ligand is entitled to a royalty of approximately 3% on future worldwide net sales of Ohtuvayre.

    On June 17, Merck announced approval from the FDA for CAPVAXIVE, previously known as V116, a 21 valent pneumococcal vaccine for the prevention of Streptococcus pneumoniae infection. Risk of infection is higher among patients that are immunocompromised, suffering chronic health conditions, and adults aged 50 years or older. As the first pneumococcal conjugate vaccine specifically designed for adults, it covers 21 serotypes that account for approximately 85% of cases of invasive pneumococcal disease among individuals 65 and over, including 8 serotypes not covered by any licensed vaccines. Specific serotypes pose potentially greater risk for invasive pneumococcal disease, including pneumococcal bacteremia and meningitis. Following the FDA approval, Merck announced on June 27, that the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices unanimously voted to recommend CAPVAXIVE as an option for all adults age 65 and older, for adults 19 to 64 with certain risk factors, and for those over 65 previously vaccinated with other pneumococcal vaccines. The FDA approval of CAPVAXIVE triggered a $2 million milestone payment to Ligand, and Ligand is entitled to a royalty on future worldwide net sales.

    On June 17, Ovid Therapeutics (NASDAQ:OVID) announced Takeda's SKYLINE study of soticlestat in Dravet syndrome narrowly missed its primary endpoint of reduction in convulsive seizure frequency and showed clinically meaningful and nominal significant effects in multiple key secondary efficacy endpoints. Additionally, Takeda's SKYWAY study in Lennox-Gastaut syndrome missed its primary endpoint of reduction in major motor drop seizures. Soticlestat had a consistent and favorable safety and tolerability profile in both studies. Takeda indicated that it plans to discuss the totality of the data with regulatory authorities.

    On June 17, Marinus Pharmaceuticals (NASDAQ:MRNS) announced topline results from Phase 3 RAISE trial of IV ganaxolone in refractory status epilepticus (RSE). The study met its first co-primary endpoint demonstrating rapid cessation of status epilepticus in a highly refractory patient population but failed to achieve statistical significance on the second co-primary endpoint of the proportion of patients not progressing to IV anesthesia. Marinus said they will continue to analyze the full RAISE dataset and plans to engage with the FDA to discuss a potential path forward for IV ganaxolone in RSE.

    On June 4, Viking Therapeutics announced positive, 52-week histologic data from its Phase 2b VOYAGE study of VK2809 in patients with biopsy-confirmed, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). The study had successfully achieved its primary endpoint with patients receiving VK2809 experiencing statistically significant declines in liver fat from baseline compared to placebo at 12 weeks. The study also showed an encouraging tolerability and safety profile for VK2809. If development of VK2809 is successful, the program will address a multi-billion dollar market opportunity where Ligand will receive a 3.5% -7.5% royalty on future net sales of VK2809, as well as significant clinical, regulatory, and commercial milestones. Viking plans to schedule an end of Phase 2 meeting with the FDA in the fourth quarter of 2024.

    Conference Call and Webcast

    Ligand management will host a conference call today beginning at 4:30 p.m. Eastern Time (1:30 p.m. Pacific Time) to discuss this announcement and answer questions. To participate via telephone, please dial (800) 715-9871 using the conference ID 8755336. Callers outside the U.S. may dial +1(646) 307-1963. To participate via live or replay webcast, a link is available at https://www.ligand.com.

    About Ligand Pharmaceuticals

    Ligand is a biopharmaceutical company enabling scientific advancement through supporting the clinical development of high-value medicines. Ligand does this by providing financing, licensing our technologies or both. Its business model seeks to generate value for stockholders by creating a diversified portfolio of biopharmaceutical product revenue streams that are supported by an efficient and low corporate cost structure. Ligand's goal is to offer investors an opportunity to participate in the promise of the biotech industry in a profitable and diversified manner. Its business model focuses on funding programs in mid- to late-stage drug development in return for economic rights, purchasing royalty rights in development stage or commercial biopharmaceutical products and licensing its technology to help partners discover and develop medicines. Ligand partners with other pharmaceutical companies to leverage what they do best (late-stage development, regulatory management and commercialization) in order to generate its revenue. Ligand's Captisol® platform technology is a chemically modified cyclodextrin with a structure designed to optimize the solubility and stability of drugs. Ligand has established multiple alliances, licenses and other business relationships with the world's leading biopharmaceutical companies including Amgen, Merck, Pfizer, Jazz, Takeda, Gilead Sciences, and Baxter International. For more information, please visit at www.ligand.com. Follow Ligand on X @Ligand_LGND.

    We use our investor relations website and X as a means of disclosing material non-public information and for complying with our disclosure obligations under Regulation FD. Investors should monitor our website and our X account, in addition to following our press releases, SEC filings, public conference calls and webcasts.

    About Captisol®

    Captisol is a patent-protected, chemically modified cyclodextrin with a structure designed to optimize the solubility and stability of drugs. Captisol was invented and initially developed by scientists in the laboratories of Dr. Valentino Stella, University Distinguished Professor at the University of Kansas' Higuchi Biosciences Center, for specific use in drug development and formulation. This unique technology has enabled several FDA-approved products, including Amgen's KYPROLIS®, Baxter's NEXTERONE, Acrotech Biopharma's EVOMELA®, Sage Therapeutics' ZULRESSO®, Gilead's VEKLURY®, and Merck's NOXAFIL®. More information is available at www.captisol.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This news release contains forward-looking statements by Ligand that involve risks and uncertainties and reflect Ligand's judgment as of the date of this release. Words such as "plans," "believes," "expects," "anticipates," and "will," and similar expressions, are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements include, without limitation, statements regarding: Ligand's ability to expand its portfolio with life sciences royalty opportunities; the timing of clinical and regulatory events of Ligand's partners, including the expected commercial launch of Ohtuvayre by Verona Pharma and ZELSUVMI by Pelthos Therapeutics; the timing of the initiation or completion of preclinical studies and clinical trials by Ligand and its partners; the timing of product launches by Ligand or its partners; the anticipated benefits from the Apeiron transaction; and guidance regarding the full-year 2024 financial results. Actual events or results may differ from Ligand's expectations due to risks and uncertainties inherent in Ligand's business, including, without limitation: Ligand relies on collaborative partners for milestone payments, royalties, materials revenue, contract payments and other revenue projections and may not receive expected revenue; Ligand may not receive expected revenue from Captisol material sales; Ligand and its partners may not be able to timely or successfully advance any product(s) in its internal or partnered pipeline or receive regulatory approval and there may not be a market for the product(s) even if successfully developed and approved; Ligand may not achieve its guidance for 2024; Ligand faces competition in acquiring royalties and locating suitable royalties to acquire; Ligand may not be able to create future revenues and cash flows through the acquisition of royalties or by developing innovative therapeutics; products under development by Ligand or its partners may not receive regulatory approval; the total addressable market for our partners' products may be smaller than estimated; Ligand faces competition with respect to its technology platforms which may demonstrate greater market acceptance or superiority; Ligand is currently dependent on a single source sole supplier for Captisol and failures by such supplier may result in delays or inability to meet the Captisol demands of its partners; Ligand's partners may change their development focus and may not execute on their sales and marketing plans for marketed products for which Ligand has an economic interest; Ligand's and its partners' products may not be proved to be safe and efficacious and may not perform as expected and uncertainty regarding the commercial performance of such products; Ligand or its partners may not be able to protect their intellectual property and patents covering certain products and technologies may be challenged or invalidated; Ligand's partners may terminate any of its agreements or development or commercialization of any of its products; Ligand and its partners may experience delays in the commencement, enrollment, completion or analysis of clinical testing for its product candidates, or significant issues regarding the adequacy of its clinical trial designs or the execution of its clinical trials, challenges, costs and charges associated with integrating acquisitions with Ligand's existing businesses; Ligand may not be able to successfully commercialize ZELSUVMI; Ligand may not be able to successfully implement its strategic growth plan and continue the development of its proprietary programs; restrictions under Ligand's credit agreement may limit its flexibility in operating its business and a default under the agreement could result in a foreclosure of the collateral securing such obligations; changes in general economic conditions, including as a result of war, conflict or epidemic diseases and ongoing or future litigation could expose Ligand to significant liabilities and have a material adverse effect on the company. The failure to meet expectations with respect to any of the foregoing matters may reduce Ligand's stock price. Additional information concerning these and other risk factors affecting Ligand can be found in prior press releases available at https://www.ligand.com as well as in Ligand's public periodic filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission available at www.sec.gov. Ligand disclaims any intent or obligation to update these forward-looking statements beyond the date of this release, including the possibility of additional license fees and milestone revenues we may receive. This caution is made under the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.

    Other Disclaimers and Trademarks

    The information in this press release regarding certain third-party products and programs, including Ohtuvayre, a Verona product, CAPVAXIVE, a Merck product, soticlestat, a Takeda product candidate, KYPROLIS, an Amgen product, RYLAZE, a Jazz Pharmaceuticals product, VAXNEUVANCE, a Merck product, FILSPARI, a Travere Therapeutics product, QTORIN, EVOMELA, a CASI product, VK2809, a Viking Therapeutics product candidate, QARZIBA (dinutuximab beta), a Recordati marketed product in E.U. and product candidate in the U.S., and other programs described herein, comes from information publicly released by the owners of such products and programs. Ligand is not responsible for, and has no role in, the development of such products or programs.

    Ligand owns or has rights to trademarks and copyrights that it uses in connection with the operation of its business including its corporate name, logos and websites. Other trademarks and copyrights appearing in this press release are the property of their respective owners. The trademarks Ligand owns include Ligand®, Captisol® and ZELSUVMI™, a Pelthos product. Solely for convenience, some of the trademarks and copyrights referred to in this press release are listed without the ®, © and ™ symbols, but Ligand will assert, to the fullest extent under applicable law, its rights to its trademarks and copyrights.

    LIGAND PHARMACEUTICALS INCORPORATED

    CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

    (Unaudited, in thousands, except per share amounts)

     

    Three Months Ended June 30,

     

    Six Months Ended June 30,

     

    2024

     

    2023

     

    2024

     

    2023

    Revenues and other income:

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Revenue from intangible royalty assets

    $

    22,603

     

     

    $

    20,430

     

     

    $

    40,960

     

     

    $

    37,584

     

    Income from financial royalty assets

     

    559

     

     

     

    508

     

     

     

    1,297

     

     

     

    1,001

     

    Royalties

     

    23,162

     

     

     

    20,938

     

     

     

    42,257

     

     

     

    38,585

     

    Captisol

     

    7,500

     

     

     

    5,220

     

     

     

    16,712

     

     

     

    15,842

     

    Contract revenue and other income

     

    10,869

     

     

     

    208

     

     

     

    13,540

     

     

     

    15,918

     

    Total revenues and other income

     

    41,531

     

     

     

    26,366

     

     

     

    72,509

     

     

     

    70,345

     

    Operating costs and expenses:

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Cost of Captisol

     

    2,906

     

     

     

    1,669

     

     

     

    5,788

     

     

     

    5,386

     

    Amortization of intangibles

     

    8,257

     

     

     

    8,539

     

     

     

    16,443

     

     

     

    17,078

     

    Research and development

     

    5,354

     

     

     

    6,854

     

     

     

    11,325

     

     

     

    13,517

     

    General and administrative

     

    17,623

     

     

     

    11,287

     

     

     

    28,574

     

     

     

    22,142

     

    Financial royalty assets impairment

     

    26,491

     

     

     

    —

     

     

     

    26,491

     

     

     

    —

     

    Total operating costs and expenses

     

    60,631

     

     

     

    28,349

     

     

     

    88,621

     

     

     

    58,123

     

    (Loss) income from operations

     

    (19,100

    )

     

     

    (1,983

    )

     

     

    (16,112

    )

     

     

    12,222

     

    Non-operating income and expenses:

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    (Loss) gain from short-term investments

     

    (14,256

    )

     

     

    3,991

     

     

     

    96,516

     

     

     

    43,524

     

    Interest income, net

     

    1,489

     

     

     

    2,036

     

     

     

    3,366

     

     

     

    3,231

     

    Other non-operating expense, net

     

    (33,523

    )

     

     

    (873

    )

     

     

    (35,713

    )

     

     

    (270

    )

    Total other (loss) income, net

     

    (46,290

    )

     

     

    5,154

     

     

     

    64,169

     

     

     

    46,485

     

    (Loss) income before income taxes from continuing operations

     

    (65,390

    )

     

     

    3,171

     

     

     

    48,057

     

     

     

    58,707

     

    Income tax benefit (expense)

     

    13,479

     

     

     

    (881

    )

     

     

    (13,829

    )

     

     

    (12,803

    )

    Net (loss) income from continuing operations

     

    (51,911

    )

     

     

    2,290

     

     

     

    34,228

     

     

     

    45,904

     

    Net loss from discontinued operations

     

    —

     

     

     

    —

     

     

     

    —

     

     

     

    (1,665

    )

    Net (loss) income

    $

    (51,911

    )

     

    $

    2,290

     

     

    $

    34,228

     

     

    $

    44,239

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Basic net (loss) income from continuing operations per share

    $

    (2.88

    )

     

    $

    0.13

     

     

    $

    1.91

     

     

    $

    2.67

     

    Basic net loss from discontinued operations per share

    $

    —

     

     

    $

    —

     

     

    $

    —

     

     

    $

    (0.10

    )

    Basic net (loss) income per share

    $

    (2.88

    )

     

    $

    0.13

     

     

    $

    1.91

     

     

    $

    2.58

     

    Shares used in basic per share calculation

     

    18,028

     

     

     

    17,276

     

     

     

    17,880

     

     

     

    17,170

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Diluted net (loss) income from continuing operations per share

    $

    (2.88

    )

     

    $

    0.13

     

     

    $

    1.87

     

     

    $

    2.57

     

    Diluted net loss from discontinued operations per share

    $

    —

     

     

    $

    —

     

     

    $

    —

     

     

    $

    (0.09

    )

    Diluted net (loss) income per share

    $

    (2.88

    )

     

    $

    0.13

     

     

    $

    1.87

     

     

    $

    2.48

     

    Shares used in diluted per share calculation

     

    18,028

     

     

     

    17,730

     

     

     

    18,282

     

     

     

    17,851

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    LIGAND PHARMACEUTICALS INCORPORATED

    CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

    (unaudited, in thousands)

     

    June 30, 2024

     

    December 31, 2023

    Assets

     

     

     

    Current assets:

     

     

     

    Cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments

    $

    226,932

     

    $

    170,309

    Accounts receivable, net

     

    37,481

     

     

    32,917

    Inventory

     

    18,672

     

     

    23,969

    Income taxes receivable

     

    —

     

     

    6,395

    Prepaid expenses

     

    1,911

     

     

    1,182

    Current derivative assets

     

    20,141

     

     

    —

    Other current assets

     

    7,122

     

     

    2,657

    Total current assets

     

    312,259

     

     

    237,429

     

     

     

     

    Goodwill and other intangible assets, net

     

    388,412

     

     

    402,976

    Long-term portion of financial royalty assets, net

     

    80,481

     

     

    62,291

    Noncurrent derivative assets

     

    34,505

     

     

    3,531

    Property and equipment, net

     

    14,970

     

     

    15,607

    Operating lease right-of-use assets

     

    7,403

     

     

    6,062

    Finance lease right-of-use assets

     

    3,085

     

     

    3,393

    Equity method investment in Primrose Bio

     

    2,437

     

     

    12,595

    Other investments

     

    10,741

     

     

    36,726

    Deferred income taxes, net

     

    190

     

     

    214

    Other assets

     

    11,922

     

     

    6,392

    Total assets

    $

    866,405

     

    $

    787,216

     

     

     

     

    Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity

     

     

     

    Current liabilities:

     

     

     

    Accounts payable and accrued liabilities

    $

    13,964

     

    $

    14,894

    Income taxes payable

     

    2,091

     

     

    —

    Deferred revenue

     

    1,196

     

     

    1,222

    Current contingent liabilities

     

    146

     

     

    256

    Current operating lease liabilities

     

    1,156

     

     

    403

    Current finance lease liabilities

     

    12

     

     

    7

    Total current liabilities

     

    18,565

     

     

    16,782

     

     

     

     

    Long-term contingent liabilities

     

    4,052

     

     

    2,942

    Long-term operating lease liabilities

     

    6,415

     

     

    5,755

    Deferred income taxes, net

     

    30,128

     

     

    31,622

    Other long-term liabilities

     

    32,047

     

     

    29,202

    Total liabilities

     

    91,207

     

     

    86,303

     

     

     

     

    Total stockholders' equity

     

    775,198

     

     

    700,913

    Total liabilities and stockholders' equity

    $

    866,405

     

    $

    787,216

    LIGAND PHARMACEUTICALS INCORPORATED

    ADJUSTED FINANCIAL MEASURES

    (Unaudited, in thousands, except per share amounts)

     

    Three Months Ended June 30,

     

    Six Months Ended June 30,

     

    2024

     

    2023

     

    2024

     

    2023

    Net (loss) income from continuing operations

    $

    (51,911

    )

     

    $

    2,290

     

     

    $

    34,228

     

     

    $

    45,904

     

    Adjustments:

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Share-based compensation expense

     

    11,060

     

     

     

    7,207

     

     

     

    18,394

     

     

     

    13,138

     

    Non-cash interest expense (1)

     

    1,207

     

     

     

    64

     

     

     

    1,291

     

     

     

    159

     

    Amortization of intangible assets

     

    8,257

     

     

     

    8,539

     

     

     

    16,443

     

     

     

    17,078

     

    Amortization of financial royalty assets (2)

     

    962

     

     

     

    (508

    )

     

     

    4,224

     

     

     

    (1,001

    )

    Change in contingent liabilities (3)

     

    1,233

     

     

     

    779

     

     

     

    1,200

     

     

     

    108

     

    Pelthos operating loss

     

    4,686

     

     

     

    —

     

     

     

    10,846

     

     

     

    —

     

    Loss (gain) from short-term investments

     

    14,256

     

     

     

    (3,991

    )

     

     

    (96,516

    )

     

     

    (43,524

    )

    Realized (loss) gain from short-term investments

     

    (17

    )

     

     

    16,645

     

     

     

    59,962

     

     

     

    37,197

     

    Provision for current expected credit losses on financial royalty assets

     

    (1,419

    )

     

     

    —

     

     

     

    (4,260

    )

     

     

    —

     

    Impairment of financial royalty assets (4)

     

    26,491

     

     

     

    —

     

     

     

    26,491

     

     

     

    —

     

    Decrease in investments in Primrose Bio (5)

     

    33,789

     

     

     

    —

     

     

     

    36,141

     

     

     

    —

     

    Other (6)

     

    (1,500

    )

     

     

    94

     

     

     

    (1,347

    )

     

     

    196

     

    Income tax effect of adjusted reconciling items above

     

    (21,785

    )

     

     

    (5,655

    )

     

     

    (12,588

    )

     

     

    (3,675

    )

    Discrete tax expense related to increase in unrecognized tax benefits

     

    426

     

     

     

    —

     

     

     

    426

     

     

     

    —

     

    Excess tax benefit (shortfall) from share-based compensation (7)

     

    98

     

     

     

    (353

    )

     

     

    563

     

     

     

    (565

    )

    Adjusted net income from continuing operations

    $

    25,833

     

     

    $

    25,111

     

     

    $

    95,498

     

     

    $

    65,015

     

    Realized gains from sales of VKTX stock, net of tax (8)

     

    —

     

     

     

    (13,392

    )

     

     

    (47,857

    )

     

     

    (29,940

    )

    Core adjusted net income from continuing operations

    $

    25,833

     

     

    $

    11,719

     

     

    $

    47,641

     

     

    $

    35,075

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Diluted per-share amounts attributable to common shareholders:

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Diluted net (loss) income per share from continuing operations

    $

    (2.88

    )

     

    $

    0.13

     

     

    $

    1.87

     

     

    $

    2.57

     

    Adjustments:

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Share-based compensation expense

     

    0.60

     

     

     

    0.41

     

     

     

    1.01

     

     

     

    0.75

     

    Non-cash interest expense (1)

     

    0.07

     

     

     

    —

     

     

     

    0.07

     

     

     

    0.01

     

    Amortization of intangible assets

     

    0.45

     

     

     

    0.48

     

     

     

    0.90

     

     

     

    0.97

     

    Amortization of financial royalty assets (2)

     

    0.05

     

     

     

    (0.03

    )

     

     

    0.23

     

     

     

    (0.06

    )

    Change in contingent liabilities (3)

     

    0.07

     

     

     

    0.04

     

     

     

    0.07

     

     

     

    0.01

     

    Pelthos operating loss

     

    0.25

     

     

     

    —

     

     

     

    0.59

     

     

     

    —

     

    (Loss) gain from short-term investments

     

    0.77

     

     

     

    (0.23

    )

     

     

    (5.28

    )

     

     

    (2.47

    )

    Realized gain from short-term investments

     

    —

     

     

     

    0.94

     

     

     

    3.28

     

     

     

    2.11

     

    Provision for current expected credit losses on financial royalty assets

     

    (0.08

    )

     

     

    —

     

     

     

    (0.23

    )

     

     

    —

     

    Impairment of financial royalty assets (4)

     

    1.44

     

     

     

    —

     

     

     

    1.45

     

     

     

    —

     

    Decrease in investments in Primrose Bio (5)

     

    1.83

     

     

     

    —

     

     

     

    1.98

     

     

     

    —

     

    Other (6)

     

    (0.06

    )

     

     

    0.01

     

     

     

    (0.07

    )

     

     

    0.01

     

    Income tax effect of adjusted reconciling items above

     

    (1.17

    )

     

     

    (0.31

    )

     

     

    (0.69

    )

     

     

    (0.22

    )

    Discrete tax expense related to increase in unrecognized tax benefits

     

    0.02

     

     

     

    —

     

     

     

    0.02

     

     

     

    —

     

    Excess tax benefit (shortfall) from share-based compensation (7)

     

    0.01

     

     

     

    (0.02

    )

     

     

    0.03

     

     

     

    (0.03

    )

    Adjustment for shares excluded due to anti-dilution effect on GAAP net loss

     

    0.03

     

     

     

    —

     

     

     

    —

     

     

     

    —

     

    Adjustment for shares excluded using the if-converted method under ASU 2020-06 (9)

     

    —

     

     

     

    —

     

     

     

    —

     

     

     

    0.04

     

    Adjusted diluted net income per share from continuing operations

    $

    1.40

     

     

    $

    1.42

     

     

    $

    5.23

     

     

    $

    3.69

     

    Realized gains from sales of VKTX stock, net of tax (8)

     

    —

     

     

     

    (0.76

    )

     

     

    (2.62

    )

     

     

    (1.70

    )

    Core adjusted diluted net income per share from continuing operations

    $

    1.40

     

     

    $

    0.66

     

     

    $

    2.61

     

     

    $

    1.99

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    GAAP - weighted average number of common shares - diluted

     

    18,028

     

     

     

    17,730

     

     

     

    18,282

     

     

     

    17,851

     

    Shares excluded due to anti-dilutive effect on GAAP net loss

     

    413

     

     

     

    —

     

     

     

    —

     

     

     

    —

     

    Diluted effect of the 2023 Notes (9)

     

    —

     

     

     

    —

     

     

     

    —

     

     

     

    (240

    )

    Adjusted weighted average number of common shares - diluted

     

    18,441

     

     

     

    17,730

     

     

     

    18,282

     

     

     

    17,611

     

    (1) Amounts represent (a) non-cash interest expense in connection with the royalty and milestone payments purchase agreement assumed as part of the Novan acquisition in September 2023; and (b) non-cash debt related costs that are calculated in accordance with the authoritative accounting guidance for our revolving credit facility and convertible debt instruments that may be settled in cash.

    (2) Amounts represent the adjustments bridging the income from financial royalty assets to total contractual payments recorded in the period.

    (3) Amounts represent changes in fair value of contingent consideration related to CyDex and Metabasis transactions.

    (4) Amounts represent the impairment of financial royalty assets primarily related to Ovid (soticlestat) in connection with Takeda's studies of soticlestat missing its primary endpoint in their studies.

    (5) In June 2024, Primrose Bio announced a Series B preferred share offering. Management applies the measurement alternative for its investment in the Series A preferred shares of Primrose Bio. Management concluded the Series B financing was a relevant transaction for determining an observable price change and revalued its Series A investment resulting in a downward adjustment of $25.8 million in the price of the Series A shares. The unrealized loss on the Series A preferred shares was an indicator that the losses in common shares (equity method investment) are other than temporary. As a result, management recorded a $5.8 million impairment charge to its equity method investment in addition to Ligand's share of the net loss of Primrose Bio recognized during the period.

    (6) Amounts primarily relate to gain or loss from change in fair value or derivative assets, restructuring costs, and losses associated with our equity investment in Nucorion.

    (7) Excess tax benefits from share-based compensation are recorded as a discrete item within the provision for income taxes on the consolidated statements of operations as a result of the adoption of an accounting pronouncement (ASU 2016-09) on January 1, 2017. Prior to the adoption, the amount was recognized in additional paid-in capital on the consolidated statement of stockholders' equity.

    (8) Amounts for the six months ended June 2024 as well as the three and six months ended June 30, 2023 are adjusted to exclude after-tax impact from realized gain of Viking common stock.

    (9) Excluding the impact from the adoption of accounting pronouncement (ASU 2020-06) on January 1, 2022 as the Company intended to settle the principal balance in cash. Under the standard, the Company is required to reflect the dilutive effect of the 2023 Notes by application of the if-converted method.

    View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240806965162/en/

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      $TVTX
      Biotechnology: Pharmaceutical Preparations
      Health Care
    • Citigroup reiterated coverage on Travere Therapeutics with a new price target

      Citigroup reiterated coverage of Travere Therapeutics with a rating of Buy and set a new price target of $32.00 from $35.00 previously

      6/11/25 7:31:38 AM ET
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    • Chief Executive Officer Davis Todd C bought $1,000,456 worth of shares (9,510 units at $105.20), increasing direct ownership by 6% to 161,234 units (SEC Form 4)

      4 - LIGAND PHARMACEUTICALS INC (0000886163) (Issuer)

      5/13/25 8:05:16 PM ET
      $LGND
      Biotechnology: Pharmaceutical Preparations
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    • Chief Financial Officer Espinoza Octavio bought $156,090 worth of shares (1,500 units at $104.06), increasing direct ownership by 6% to 27,932 units (SEC Form 4)

      4 - LIGAND PHARMACEUTICALS INC (0000886163) (Issuer)

      5/13/25 8:04:05 PM ET
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      Biotechnology: Pharmaceutical Preparations
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    • Amendment: Director Rouan Sarah Kathryn bought $29,943 worth of shares (1,240 units at $24.15) (SEC Form 4)

      4/A - Viking Therapeutics, Inc. (0001607678) (Issuer)

      4/8/25 7:05:30 PM ET
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      Biotechnology: Pharmaceutical Preparations
      Health Care

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    • SEC Form DEFA14A filed by Verona Pharma plc

      DEFA14A - Verona Pharma plc (0001657312) (Filer)

      7/10/25 5:10:45 PM ET
      $VRNA
      Biotechnology: Pharmaceutical Preparations
      Health Care
    • SEC Form DEFA14A filed by Verona Pharma plc

      DEFA14A - Verona Pharma plc (0001657312) (Filer)

      7/10/25 5:10:14 PM ET
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      Biotechnology: Pharmaceutical Preparations
      Health Care
    • Ovid Therapeutics Inc. filed SEC Form 8-K: Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders

      8-K - Ovid Therapeutics Inc. (0001636651) (Filer)

      7/10/25 4:29:55 PM ET
      $OVID
      Biotechnology: Pharmaceutical Preparations
      Health Care

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    • Pelthos Therapeutics Completes Merger with Channel Therapeutics and Closes $50.1 Million Private Placement

      The combined company plans to launch ZELSUVMI™ for the treatment of molluscum contagiosum infections in July 2025 Concurrent with the closing of the merger, the combined company closed on a $50.1 million equity private placement Combined company will operate under the name "Pelthos Therapeutics Inc." and will trade on the NYSE American exchange under the ticker symbol "PTHS" starting on July 2, 2025 DURHAM, N.C., July 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Pelthos Therapeutics Inc., a biopharmaceutical company committed to commercializing innovative therapeutic products for high unmet patient needs, today announced the closing of the previously announced merger agreement pursuant to which CHRO Me

      7/2/25 7:00:00 AM ET
      $CHRO
      $LGND
      Biotechnology: Biological Products (No Diagnostic Substances)
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    • Ovid Therapeutics Appoints Pioneering Industry Leader Dr. Stelios Papadopoulos to Board of Directors

      NEW YORK, March 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Ovid Therapeutics Inc. (NASDAQ:OVID), a biopharmaceutical company dedicated to developing small-molecule medicines for brain conditions with significant unmet need, today announced the appointment of Stelios Papadopoulos, Ph.D. to its Board of Directors. "Stelios is a pioneering force in biotechnology. His vision and strategic acumen have shaped the landscape of our industry—building companies, financing breakthroughs, and enabling transformative medicines. We are honored to welcome him to our Board at a defining moment for Ovid," said Jeremy Levin, D.Phil, MB BChir, Chairman and CEO of Ovid Therapeutics. "With our advancing pipeline, including

      3/3/25 8:00:00 AM ET
      $OVID
      Biotechnology: Pharmaceutical Preparations
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    • GeminiBio Appoints Mike Stella to Board

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      2/18/25 9:00:00 AM ET
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      Biotechnology: Biological Products (No Diagnostic Substances)
      Health Care
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    • Merck to Hold Second-Quarter 2025 Sales and Earnings Conference Call July 29

      Merck (NYSE:MRK), known as MSD outside of the United States and Canada, will hold its second-quarter 2025 sales and earnings conference call with institutional investors and analysts at 9:00 a.m. ET on Tuesday, July 29. During the call, company executives will provide an overview of Merck's performance for the quarter. Investors, journalists and the general public may access a live audio webcast of the call via this weblink. A replay of the webcast, along with the sales and earnings news release, supplemental financial disclosures and slides highlighting the results, will be available at www.merck.com. All participants may join the call by dialing (800) 369-3351 (U.S. and Canada Toll-Fr

      7/1/25 6:45:00 AM ET
      $MRK
      Biotechnology: Pharmaceutical Preparations
      Health Care
    • AMGEN ANNOUNCES POSITIVE TOPLINE PHASE 3 RESULTS FOR BEMARITUZUMAB IN FIBROBLAST GROWTH FACTOR RECEPTOR 2b (FGFR2b) POSITIVE FIRST-LINE GASTRIC CANCER

      At an Interim Analysis, Bemarituzumab Plus Chemotherapy Significantly Improved Overall Survival in People With FGFR2b Overexpression Compared to Chemotherapy Alone THOUSAND OAKS, Calif., June 30, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Amgen (NASDAQ:AMGN) today announced the Phase 3 FORTITUDE-101 clinical trial evaluating first-line bemarituzumab plus chemotherapy (mFOLFOX6) met its primary endpoint of overall survival (OS) at a pre-specified interim analysis.  Bemarituzumab plus chemotherapy demonstrated a statistically significant and clinically meaningful improvement in OS as compared to placebo plus chemotherapy in people living with unresectable locally advanced or metastatic gastric or gastroesophageal j

      6/30/25 9:00:00 AM ET
      $AMGN
      Biotechnology: Biological Products (No Diagnostic Substances)
      Health Care
    • AMGEN'S PHASE 2 MARITIDE DATA TO BE PRESENTED AT THE AMERICAN DIABETES ASSOCIATION 85TH SCIENTIFIC SESSIONS

      MariTide is the First Monthly or Less Frequently Dosed Peptide-Antibody Conjugate Being Investigated for the Treatment of Obesity and Type 2 Diabetes  New Repatha® Data Provide Insight Into the Benefits of Lipid Lowering Therapy in People With Type 1 Diabetes Amgen to Host Investor Webcast on MariTide Data on June 23 at 4:30 p.m. CDT  THOUSAND OAKS, Calif., June 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Amgen (NASDAQ:AMGN) today announced full results from Part 1 of the Phase 2 study for MariTide (maridebart cafraglutide, formerly AMG 133) in patients living with obesity, with and without Type 2 diabetes, will be presented along with new data from the Phase 3 FOURIER study of Repatha® (evolocumab) in cardio

      6/18/25 9:00:00 AM ET
      $AMGN
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    $CASI
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    • Amendment: SEC Form SC 13G/A filed by Pieris Pharmaceuticals Inc.

      SC 13G/A - PALVELLA THERAPEUTICS, INC. (0001583648) (Subject)

      12/17/24 5:42:35 PM ET
      $PIRS
      Biotechnology: Pharmaceutical Preparations
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    • Amendment: SEC Form SC 13G/A filed by Marinus Pharmaceuticals Inc.

      SC 13G/A - MARINUS PHARMACEUTICALS, INC. (0001267813) (Subject)

      11/15/24 10:35:20 AM ET
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    • Amendment: SEC Form SC 13G/A filed by Agenus Inc.

      SC 13G/A - AGENUS INC (0001098972) (Subject)

      11/14/24 7:58:18 PM ET
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      Biotechnology: Biological Products (No Diagnostic Substances)
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