Why Is Apellis Pharmaceuticals (APLS) Up 7.2% Since Last Earnings Report?

Core Viewpoint - Apellis Pharmaceuticals has seen a 7.2% increase in share price over the past month, outperforming the S&P 500, but estimates have trended downward, indicating potential challenges ahead [1][2]. Financial Performance - The consensus estimate for Apellis Pharmaceuticals has shifted downward by 48.19% in the past month, reflecting a negative outlook [2]. - The company currently holds a Zacks Rank of 4 (Sell), suggesting expectations of below-average returns in the coming months [4]. VGM Scores - Apellis Pharmaceuticals has a subpar Growth Score of D and a Momentum Score of F, placing it in the bottom 40% for value strategy, resulting in an overall VGM Score of F [3]. Industry Comparison - In contrast, Vertex Pharmaceuticals, a peer in the same industry, reported revenues of $2.77 billion for the last quarter, with a year-over-year increase of 3% [5]. - Vertex is expected to post earnings of $4.24 per share for the current quarter, reflecting a significant year-over-year change of +133.1%, and holds a Zacks Rank of 3 (Hold) [6].