RBC Capital raises AstraZeneca stock price target on strong results

Merck, Eli Lilly, Novartis, and AstraZeneca allegedly paid high bonuses to Russian distributors, enabling a corruption scheme in Russia's healthcare system, according to a whistleblower report. The report claims excessive rebates and non-competitive practices, with Merck's R-Pharma winning most bids for Keytruda. The companies either declined or did not respond to comments.

AstraZeneca (AZN) reiterated its $80B revenue target by 2030, announced a $1.5B cost-savings program, and shares rose 7%. Alnylam (ALNY) reported $1.13B Amvuttra revenue, but shares fell 20% due to concerns over Medicare reimbursement and insurer policies. Regeneron (REGN) saw shares rise 13% after reporting record sales for Dupixent, Eylea, and Libtayo, beating expectations.

AstraZeneca's Q3 results led three brokers to raise price targets. Citi highlighted growth prospects and pipeline opportunities, raising its target to £189. RBC noted reduced near-term uncertainty and raised its target to 15,250p. UBS increased its target to 16,000p after sales beat consensus. The company also announced a restructuring program with $2B in costs and $1.5B in annual savings.

AstraZeneca discontinued two early-stage prostate cancer drugs, AZD9750 and another, according to its latest pipeline review. AZD9750's trial was halted after only six participants were enrolled.

Hutchmed and AstraZeneca's regulatory filings for Orpathys plus Tagrisso in lung cancer treatment were accepted in Europe and Japan. The submissions are based on positive phase 3 trial results showing significant improvements in survival rates. Orpathys is jointly developed and commercialized by the companies. The filings follow a previous FDA submission.

Merck, Eli Lilly, Novartis, and AstraZeneca allegedly paid millions in bonuses to Russian distributors, including R-Pharm, which faces corruption allegations. Whistleblower reports claim these payments may have facilitated kickbacks to officials for cancer drug contracts, potentially violating the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act. The companies have not publicly addressed the allegations.