Summary
Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc. reported its financial results for the third quarter and nine months ended September 30, 2008. The company experienced a significant increase in total revenues, primarily driven by its collaborations with sanofi-aventis and Bayer HealthCare. While net losses decreased year-over-year due to this revenue growth, the company continues to invest heavily in research and development, leading to substantial operating expenses. ARCALYST (rilonacept) was launched commercially in March 2008 for the treatment of Cryopyrin-Associated Periodic Syndromes (CAPS), with projected shipments of $10 million in 2008. The company also advanced its late-stage clinical programs for aflibercept (VEGF Trap) in oncology and VEGF Trap-Eye for eye diseases. Significant collaboration agreements, particularly with sanofi-aventis for antibody discovery and development, are central to Regeneron's strategy and funding. Despite revenue growth, the company remains in a cumulative loss position and continues to require substantial funding for its extensive R&D activities. Management anticipates sufficient capital to meet operating needs through at least 2012, but acknowledges the inherent risks and uncertainties in drug development and the potential need for future financing.
Key Highlights
- 1Total revenues increased significantly in Q3 2008 ($65.6M) and the first nine months of 2008 ($182.6M) compared to the prior year periods, driven by collaboration revenues from sanofi-aventis and Bayer HealthCare.
- 2Net loss for Q3 2008 was $21.1 million ($0.27/share), an improvement from $35.8 million ($0.54/share) in Q3 2007. Nine-month net loss was $51.2 million ($0.65/share), down from $92.5 million ($1.40/share) in the prior year.
- 3ARCALYST (rilonacept) was launched in March 2008 for CAPS, with projected 2008 shipments of $10 million.
- 4Research and development expenses increased substantially, reaching $73.8 million in Q3 2008 and $201.7 million for the first nine months, reflecting expanded R&D activities, particularly in antibody programs.
- 5The company repurchased $82.5 million of its 5.5% Convertible Senior Subordinated Notes due October 17, 2008, for $83.3 million during the first nine months of 2008.
- 6Marketable securities stood at $376.5 million at September 30, 2008, with $1.7 million and $2.3 million in impairment charges recognized for other-than-temporary declines in value during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2008, respectively.
- 7Regeneron anticipates that existing capital resources and collaboration funding will enable it to meet operating needs through at least 2012.