Paradigm Biopharma — Active pipeline and catalysts ahead
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Paradigm Biopharma (ASX: PAR)

Last close As at 20/11/2024

0.46

0.02 (4.55%)

Market capitalisation

AUD154m

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Research: Healthcare

Paradigm Biopharma — Active pipeline and catalysts ahead

Paradigm has shared its March 2023 quarterly update. In Q323, net cash outflow from operating activities was A$10.3m (A$28.1m for the first nine months of FY23). R&D costs amounted to A$9.0m, attributed to ongoing recruitment and analytical activities for the PARA_OA_008 Phase II clinical trial assessing injectable pentosan polysulfate (iPPS, or Zilosul) as a potentially disease-modifying treatment for knee osteoarthritis (kOA), site operations for Phase II studies in mucopolysaccharidosis (MPS I and MPS VI), and ongoing NDA-enabling non-clinical studies. This expenditure is comparable to the prior quarter (A$13.2m), and we anticipate an increase in burn rate in the near-term to support the company’s active pipeline. With a cash position of A$73.2m at end-Q323 and at the current quarterly burn rate, management estimates that operations remain funded into CY24.

Soo Romanoff

Written by

Soo Romanoff

Managing Director - Head of Content, Healthcare

Paradigm Photography Pool Bone

Healthcare

Paradigm Biopharmaceuticals

Active pipeline and catalysts ahead

Pharma and biotech

Spotlight – Flash

2 May 2023

Price

A$1.01

Market cap

A$285m

Share price graph

Share details

Code

PAR

Listing

Australian Stock Exchange

Shares in issue

282.1m

Net cash at end-March 2023

A$73.2m

Business description

Paradigm Biopharmaceuticals is an Australian biotechnology company focused on the development of injectable pentosan polysulfate (iPPS). The company’s most advanced clinical programme is investigating the drug’s use as a potentially disease-modifying treatment for knee-osteoarthritis, a degenerative disease with significant unmet medical needs. iPPS is in pivotal Phase III trials.

Bull

Knee osteoarthritis (kOA) is a prevalent indication with large commercial potential.

Comprehensive late-stage development programme to maximise opportunity in kOA.

iPPS has a known safety profile, which somewhat de-risks development.

Bear

Failure to meet clinical endpoints would significantly affect the value of iPPS.

Historically the development of disease-modifying drugs in OA has been unsuccessful.

Funding is needed to complete the Phase III programme.

Analysts

Soo Romanoff

+44 (0)20 3077 5700

Dr Arron Aatkar

+44 (0)20 3077 5700

Paradigm Biopharmaceuticals is a research client of Edison Investment Research Limited

Paradigm has shared its March 2023 quarterly update. In Q323, net cash outflow from operating activities was A$10.3m (A$28.1m for the first nine months of FY23). R&D costs amounted to A$9.0m, attributed to ongoing recruitment and analytical activities for the PARA_OA_008 Phase II clinical trial assessing injectable pentosan polysulfate (iPPS, or Zilosul) as a potentially disease-modifying treatment for knee osteoarthritis (kOA), site operations for Phase II studies in mucopolysaccharidosis (MPS I and MPS VI), and ongoing NDA-enabling non-clinical studies. This expenditure is comparable to the prior quarter (A$13.2m), and we anticipate an increase in burn rate in the near-term to support the company’s active pipeline. With a cash position of A$73.2m at end-Q323 and at the current quarterly burn rate, management estimates that operations remain funded into CY24.

Consensus estimates

Year
end

Revenue (A$m)

PBT
(A$m)

EPS
(A$)

DPS
(A$)

P/E
(x)

Yield
(%)

06/21

8.94

(34.3)

(0.17)

0.0

N/A

N/A

06/22

0.08

(39.3)

(0.17)

0.0

N/A

N/A

06/23e

0.005

(58.5)

(0.20)

0.0

N/A

N/A

06/24e

64.5*

(12.7)

0.04

0.0

33.6

N/A

Source: Refinitiv. Note: *FY24 revenue may reflect market expectations on potential licensing revenue.

In the last quarter, Paradigm shared encouraging top-line data from the PARA_OA_008 trial, positioning iPPS as a potential disease-modifying OA drug. Further details are discussed in our previous update on the study, and we note that 12-month data are expected in H2 CY23. The company is preparing for discussions with key regulatory agencies to reach an agreement on a potential disease-modifying label.

The pivotal PARA_OA_002 Phase III trial to assess iPPS in patients with kOA pain is ongoing. The study has activated 102 sites and is recruiting participants across 6 countries; recruitment is due to be complete by the end of the current quarter. In March, Paradigm received regulatory and ethics approvals for this trial, enabling start-up activities at additional sites in Europe. Paradigm continues to engage with NFL Alumni Health regarding developments in osteoarthritis treatment options, highlighting strong interest from this community, in our view.

iPPS is also being investigated as a potential treatment for mucopolysaccharidosis (MPS I and VI). Paradigm’s Phase II trial in MPS VI recently completed enrolment and top-line data are expected in Q4 CY23.

We continue to anticipate multiple catalysts for Paradigm’s share price over CY23–25. While the Q323 report shows a quarter-on-quarter decline in R&D costs, we expect a general increase in cash burn to support ongoing clinical activities in kOA and MPS. The company has guided that its cash position of A$73.2m at end-Q323 will provide a runway through key upcoming events into CY24. However, we note that this cash runway is sensitive to clinical delays or future R&D tax incentive rebates (A$7.4m rebate reported in Q223), and management has communicated that a similar R&D rebate being received in H1 FY24 is probable.

General disclaimer and copyright

This report has been commissioned by Paradigm Biopharmaceuticals and prepared and issued by Edison, in consideration of a fee payable by Paradigm Biopharmaceuticals. 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.

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Copyright: Copyright 2023 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.

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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 Paradigm Biopharmaceuticals and prepared and issued by Edison, in consideration of a fee payable by Paradigm Biopharmaceuticals. 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 2023 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

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