BB Biotech — A key milestone with significance for the sector

BB Biotech (BION)

Last close As at 20/12/2024

CHF35.70

−1.05 (−2.86%)

Market capitalisation

CHF1,978m

More on this equity

Research: Investment Companies

BB Biotech — A key milestone with significance for the sector

BB Biotech (BION) invests in innovative, rapidly expanding biotech companies. BION’s portfolio company Wave Life Sciences (Wave) recently announced a significant milestone in the field of genetic medicine: the first successful therapeutic RNA editing in humans. This news lifted Wave’s share price by c 60%. It follows recent positive developments in three of BION’s largest holdings, Alnylam, Intra-Cellular Therapies and Agios, which all saw substantial improvements in their longer-term revenue prospects after positive Phase III readouts. Wave’s news adds to the recent positive momentum in BION’s NAV, which rose by 5.2% in the year ended 30 September 2024, after several years of annual declines, although this return lagged the Nasdaq Biotech Index’s 12.3% rise. Yet the company’s share price declined by 8.1% over this period and the share price discount to NAV is currently over 15%, in stark contrast to an average NAV premium of c 10% over the past 10 years. With interest rates falling and the outlook for the biotech sector potentially brightening accordingly, as we argued in our August 2024 update, this may represent an opportunity for investors to acquire access to the exciting opportunities offered by this industry at what may be an uncommonly wide discount.

Joanne Collins

Written by

Joanne Collins

Analyst, Investment Trusts

Investment Companies

BB Biotech

A key milestone with significance for the sector

Trading update

Investment trusts
Biotechnology equities

21 October 2024

Price

CHF37.10

Market cap

CHF2,055.3m

AUM

CHF2,437.6m

NAV/share*

44.0p

Discount to NAV*

15.7%

*At 17 October 2024.

Shares in issue

55.4m

Yield

5.0%

Code/ISIN

BION/CH0038389992

Primary exchange

SIX

AIC sector

N/A

Fund objective

BB Biotech, a Swiss-based investment company, targets long-term capital growth from biotechnology companies developing and marketing innovative drugs. At least 90% of the portfolio is held in listed companies, primarily those that already have products on the market or promising drug candidates in advanced stages of development. BION is benchmarked against the Nasdaq Biotech Index (in CHF) but is managed on a bottom-up basis, with a focused c 20–35 stock portfolio.

Analyst

Joanne Collins

+44 (0)20 3077 5700

BB Biotech is a research client of Edison Investment Research Limited

BB Biotech (BION) invests in innovative, rapidly expanding biotech companies. BION’s portfolio company Wave Life Sciences (Wave) recently announced a significant milestone in the field of genetic medicine: the first successful therapeutic RNA editing in humans. This news lifted Wave’s share price by c 60%. It follows recent positive developments in three of BION’s largest holdings, Alnylam, Intra-Cellular Therapies and Agios, which all saw substantial improvements in their longer-term revenue prospects after positive Phase III readouts. Wave’s news adds to the recent positive momentum in BION’s NAV, which rose by 5.2% in the year ended 30 September 2024, after several years of annual declines, although this return lagged the Nasdaq Biotech Index’s 12.3% rise. Yet the company’s share price declined by 8.1% over this period and the share price discount to NAV is currently over 15%, in stark contrast to an average NAV premium of c 10% over the past 10 years. With interest rates falling and the outlook for the biotech sector potentially brightening accordingly, as we argued in our August 2024 update, this may represent an opportunity for investors to acquire access to the exciting opportunities offered by this industry at what may be an uncommonly wide discount.

Wave is a US-based clinical-stage biotechnology company that designs and develops ribonucleic acid (RNA) medicines through its discovery and drug development platform, PRISM. This platform combines multiple modalities, chemistry innovation and deep knowledge of human genetics, with the intention of delivering and commercialising scientific breakthroughs that treat both rare and prevalent disorders.

The announcement of Wave’s successful completion of the first therapeutic RNA editing in humans is part of the RestorAATion-2 clinical trial, which is focusing on treating Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (AATD), a genetic disorder that can lead to severe lung and liver disease. The trial involved WVE-006, a novel therapeutic designed to edit RNA to restore the production of a specific protein that is lacking in patients with AATD. This therapeutic approach could transform treatment for AATD patients, who currently have limited options. There are an estimated 200,000 people living with AATD in the US and Europe, who may benefit. 

Of even greater significance, the study showcases the broader potential of RNA editing technology, which could pave the way for new therapies targeting a range of genetic diseases. Wave plans to further investigate the long-term effects of WVE-006 and explore its potential across other genetic disorders. The company, which is listed on the Nasdaq, will also discuss further development with the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).  

GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) has the exclusive licence to commercialise WVE-006, and Wave is eligible to receive milestone payments of up to US$525m, as well as tiered royalties on net sales. 

BION’s holding in Wave represented 0.7% of BION’s portfolio at end Q224, but the 60% share price gain triggered by news of Wave’s success means that its portfolio weighting has increased by approximately 120% since end Q224.

See our August 2024 update for more information on BION.

General disclaimer and copyright

This report has been commissioned by BB Biotech and prepared and issued by Edison, in consideration of a fee payable by BB Biotech. Edison Investment Research standard fees are £60,000 pa for the production and broad dissemination of a detailed note (Outlook) following by regular (typically quarterly) update notes. Fees are paid upfront in cash without recourse. Edison may seek additional fees for the provision of roadshows and related IR services for the client but does not get remunerated for any investment banking services. We never take payment in stock, options or warrants for any of our services.

Accuracy of content: All information used in the publication of this report has been compiled from publicly available sources that are believed to be reliable, however we do not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this report and have not sought for this information to be independently verified. Opinions contained in this report represent those of the research department of Edison at the time of publication. Forward-looking information or statements in this report contain information that is based on assumptions, forecasts of future results, estimates of amounts not yet determinable, and therefore involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of their subject matter to be materially different from current expectations.

Exclusion of Liability: To the fullest extent allowed by law, Edison shall not be liable for any direct, indirect or consequential losses, loss of profits, damages, costs or expenses incurred or suffered by you arising out or in connection with the access to, use of or reliance on any information contained on this note.

No personalised advice: The information that we provide should not be construed in any manner whatsoever as, personalised advice. Also, the information provided by us should not be construed by any subscriber or prospective subscriber as Edison’s solicitation to effect, or attempt to effect, any transaction in a security. The securities described in the report may not be eligible for sale in all jurisdictions or to certain categories of investors.

Investment in securities mentioned: Edison has a restrictive policy relating to personal dealing and conflicts of interest. Edison Group does not conduct any investment business and, accordingly, does not itself hold any positions in the securities mentioned in this report. However, the respective directors, officers, employees and contractors of Edison may have a position in any or related securities mentioned in this report, subject to Edison's policies on personal dealing and conflicts of interest.

Copyright: Copyright 2024 Edison Investment Research Limited (Edison).

Australia

Edison Investment Research Pty Ltd (Edison AU) is the Australian subsidiary of Edison. Edison AU is a Corporate Authorised Representative (1252501) of Crown Wealth Group Pty Ltd who holds an Australian Financial Services Licence (Number: 494274). This research is issued in Australia by Edison AU and any access to it, is intended only for "wholesale clients" within the meaning of the Corporations Act 2001 of Australia. Any advice given by Edison AU is general advice only and does not take into account your personal circumstances, needs or objectives. You should, before acting on this advice, consider the appropriateness of the advice, having regard to your objectives, financial situation and needs. If our advice relates to the acquisition, or possible acquisition, of a particular financial product you should read any relevant Product Disclosure Statement or like instrument.

New Zealand

The research in this document is intended for New Zealand resident professional financial advisers or brokers (for use in their roles as financial advisers or brokers) and habitual investors who are “wholesale clients” for the purpose of the Financial Advisers Act 2008 (FAA) (as described in sections 5(c) (1)(a), (b) and (c) of the FAA). This is not a solicitation or inducement to buy, sell, subscribe, or underwrite any securities mentioned or in the topic of this document. For the purpose of the FAA, the content of this report is of a general nature, is intended as a source of general information only and is not intended to constitute a recommendation or opinion in relation to acquiring or disposing (including refraining from acquiring or disposing) of securities. The distribution of this document is not a “personalised service” and, to the extent that it contains any financial advice, is intended only as a “class service” provided by Edison within the meaning of the FAA (i.e. without taking into account the particular financial situation or goals of any person). As such, it should not be relied upon in making an investment decision.

United Kingdom

This document is prepared and provided by Edison for information purposes only and should not be construed as an offer or solicitation for investment in any securities mentioned or in the topic of this document. A marketing communication under FCA Rules, this document has not been prepared in accordance with the legal requirements designed to promote the independence of investment research and is not subject to any prohibition on dealing ahead of the dissemination of investment research.

This Communication is being distributed in the United Kingdom and is directed only at (i) persons having professional experience in matters relating to investments, i.e. investment professionals within the meaning of Article 19(5) of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Financial Promotion) Order 2005, as amended (the "FPO") (ii) high net-worth companies, unincorporated associations or other bodies within the meaning of Article 49 of the FPO and (iii) persons to whom it is otherwise lawful to distribute it. The investment or investment activity to which this document relates is available only to such persons. It is not intended that this document be distributed or passed on, directly or indirectly, to any other class of persons and in any event and under no circumstances should persons of any other description rely on or act upon the contents of this document.

This Communication is being supplied to you solely for your information and may not be reproduced by, further distributed to or published in whole or in part by, any other person.

United States

Edison relies upon the "publishers' exclusion" from the definition of investment adviser under Section 202(a)(11) of the Investment Advisers Act of 1940 and corresponding state securities laws. This report is a bona fide publication of general and regular circulation offering impersonal investment-related advice, not tailored to a specific investment portfolio or the needs of current and/or prospective subscribers. As such, Edison does not offer or provide personal advice and the research provided is for informational purposes only. No mention of a particular security in this report constitutes a recommendation to buy, sell or hold that or any security, or that any particular security, portfolio of securities, transaction or investment strategy is suitable for any specific person.

London │ New York │ Frankfurt

20 Red Lion Street

London, WC1R 4PS

United Kingdom

London │ New York │ Frankfurt

20 Red Lion Street

London, WC1R 4PS

United Kingdom

General disclaimer and copyright

This report has been commissioned by BB Biotech and prepared and issued by Edison, in consideration of a fee payable by BB Biotech. Edison Investment Research standard fees are £60,000 pa for the production and broad dissemination of a detailed note (Outlook) following by regular (typically quarterly) update notes. Fees are paid upfront in cash without recourse. Edison may seek additional fees for the provision of roadshows and related IR services for the client but does not get remunerated for any investment banking services. We never take payment in stock, options or warrants for any of our services.

Accuracy of content: All information used in the publication of this report has been compiled from publicly available sources that are believed to be reliable, however we do not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this report and have not sought for this information to be independently verified. Opinions contained in this report represent those of the research department of Edison at the time of publication. Forward-looking information or statements in this report contain information that is based on assumptions, forecasts of future results, estimates of amounts not yet determinable, and therefore involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of their subject matter to be materially different from current expectations.

Exclusion of Liability: To the fullest extent allowed by law, Edison shall not be liable for any direct, indirect or consequential losses, loss of profits, damages, costs or expenses incurred or suffered by you arising out or in connection with the access to, use of or reliance on any information contained on this note.

No personalised advice: The information that we provide should not be construed in any manner whatsoever as, personalised advice. Also, the information provided by us should not be construed by any subscriber or prospective subscriber as Edison’s solicitation to effect, or attempt to effect, any transaction in a security. The securities described in the report may not be eligible for sale in all jurisdictions or to certain categories of investors.

Investment in securities mentioned: Edison has a restrictive policy relating to personal dealing and conflicts of interest. Edison Group does not conduct any investment business and, accordingly, does not itself hold any positions in the securities mentioned in this report. However, the respective directors, officers, employees and contractors of Edison may have a position in any or related securities mentioned in this report, subject to Edison's policies on personal dealing and conflicts of interest.

Copyright: Copyright 2024 Edison Investment Research Limited (Edison).

Australia

Edison Investment Research Pty Ltd (Edison AU) is the Australian subsidiary of Edison. Edison AU is a Corporate Authorised Representative (1252501) of Crown Wealth Group Pty Ltd who holds an Australian Financial Services Licence (Number: 494274). This research is issued in Australia by Edison AU and any access to it, is intended only for "wholesale clients" within the meaning of the Corporations Act 2001 of Australia. Any advice given by Edison AU is general advice only and does not take into account your personal circumstances, needs or objectives. You should, before acting on this advice, consider the appropriateness of the advice, having regard to your objectives, financial situation and needs. If our advice relates to the acquisition, or possible acquisition, of a particular financial product you should read any relevant Product Disclosure Statement or like instrument.

New Zealand

The research in this document is intended for New Zealand resident professional financial advisers or brokers (for use in their roles as financial advisers or brokers) and habitual investors who are “wholesale clients” for the purpose of the Financial Advisers Act 2008 (FAA) (as described in sections 5(c) (1)(a), (b) and (c) of the FAA). This is not a solicitation or inducement to buy, sell, subscribe, or underwrite any securities mentioned or in the topic of this document. For the purpose of the FAA, the content of this report is of a general nature, is intended as a source of general information only and is not intended to constitute a recommendation or opinion in relation to acquiring or disposing (including refraining from acquiring or disposing) of securities. The distribution of this document is not a “personalised service” and, to the extent that it contains any financial advice, is intended only as a “class service” provided by Edison within the meaning of the FAA (i.e. without taking into account the particular financial situation or goals of any person). As such, it should not be relied upon in making an investment decision.

United Kingdom

This document is prepared and provided by Edison for information purposes only and should not be construed as an offer or solicitation for investment in any securities mentioned or in the topic of this document. A marketing communication under FCA Rules, this document has not been prepared in accordance with the legal requirements designed to promote the independence of investment research and is not subject to any prohibition on dealing ahead of the dissemination of investment research.

This Communication is being distributed in the United Kingdom and is directed only at (i) persons having professional experience in matters relating to investments, i.e. investment professionals within the meaning of Article 19(5) of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Financial Promotion) Order 2005, as amended (the "FPO") (ii) high net-worth companies, unincorporated associations or other bodies within the meaning of Article 49 of the FPO and (iii) persons to whom it is otherwise lawful to distribute it. The investment or investment activity to which this document relates is available only to such persons. It is not intended that this document be distributed or passed on, directly or indirectly, to any other class of persons and in any event and under no circumstances should persons of any other description rely on or act upon the contents of this document.

This Communication is being supplied to you solely for your information and may not be reproduced by, further distributed to or published in whole or in part by, any other person.

United States

Edison relies upon the "publishers' exclusion" from the definition of investment adviser under Section 202(a)(11) of the Investment Advisers Act of 1940 and corresponding state securities laws. This report is a bona fide publication of general and regular circulation offering impersonal investment-related advice, not tailored to a specific investment portfolio or the needs of current and/or prospective subscribers. As such, Edison does not offer or provide personal advice and the research provided is for informational purposes only. No mention of a particular security in this report constitutes a recommendation to buy, sell or hold that or any security, or that any particular security, portfolio of securities, transaction or investment strategy is suitable for any specific person.

London │ New York │ Frankfurt

20 Red Lion Street

London, WC1R 4PS

United Kingdom

London │ New York │ Frankfurt

20 Red Lion Street

London, WC1R 4PS

United Kingdom

More on BB Biotech

View All

Latest from the Investment Companies sector

View All Investment Companies content

Research: TMT

1Spatial — £1m 1Streetworks deal highlights the opportunity

1Spatial has announced the completion of a landmark deal for its key 1Streetworks application. Originally highlighted at the interims, the company has now revealed the client to be Surrey County Council. The deal is encouraging for two reasons. Firstly, the size of the deal (£1m over 12 months) indicates that the potential opportunity for this product is large. Secondly, the council’s plan to use the product as a collaboration tool with contractors and utility companies should help stimulate wider adoption within the industry.

Continue Reading

Subscribe to Edison

Get access to the very latest content matched to your personal investment style.

Sign up for free