CRMD vs. PBYI: Which Small-Cap Biotech Stock Is the Better Buy?

Core Insights - CorMedix (CRMD) and Puma Biotechnology (PBYI) are small-cap biotech companies with market capitalizations under $1 billion, focusing on the commercialization of their core products [1] - CorMedix is in the early commercialization phase with its product DefenCath, while Puma Biotechnology has a more established presence with its product Nerlynx [2] CorMedix (CRMD) Overview - DefenCath, approved by the FDA in late 2023, is the first antimicrobial catheter lock solution in the U.S., aimed at reducing catheter-related bloodstream infections in kidney failure patients [3][4] - In the first nine months of 2025, DefenCath generated $167.6 million in net sales, indicating strong market adoption and a unique market position with patent protection until 2033 [6] - CorMedix anticipates steady sales growth as it expands its commercial footprint and marketing efforts, with plans for potential label expansion into total parenteral nutrition [7] - The $300 million acquisition of Melinta Therapeutics in August 2025 added seven approved therapies to CorMedix's portfolio, enhancing its presence in hospital acute care and infectious disease markets [8] - The company raised its full-year 2025 pro forma net revenue guidance to $390-$410 million, up from a previous estimate of at least $375 million [9] Puma Biotechnology (PBYI) Overview - Nerlynx is approved for treating early-stage HER2-positive breast cancer and has generated $144.2 million in sales in the first nine months of 2025, reflecting a 2.4% year-over-year increase [11][12] - Puma Biotechnology raised its full-year 2025 revenue guidance to $220-$223 million, up from $212–$222 million, with net product sales expected to be between $198-$200 million [13] - The company faces risks due to its heavy reliance on Nerlynx for revenue, with potential regulatory setbacks posing significant challenges [13][14] - PBYI is developing alisertib for hormone receptor-positive breast cancer and small-cell lung cancer, but ongoing studies present risks to the company's outlook [15] Financial Estimates and Performance - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for CorMedix's 2025 sales and EPS indicates a year-over-year increase of approximately 613% and 1057%, respectively [16] - In contrast, Puma Biotechnology's estimates imply a year-over-year decrease of around 4% in sales and 10% in EPS for 2025 [18] - Over the past six months, CRMD shares have declined by 15.8%, while PBYI shares have surged by 66.7%, compared to an industry return of 22.1% [20] Valuation and Investment Outlook - Puma Biotechnology appears more expensive than CorMedix based on the price/book (P/B) ratio, with PBYI at 2.48 compared to CRMD's 2.40 [22] - CorMedix holds a Zacks Rank 1 (Strong Buy), while Puma Biotechnology has a Zacks Rank 3 (Hold), indicating a more favorable investment outlook for CRMD [23] - CorMedix's strong commercial execution, optimistic revenue guidance, and strategic diversification through the Melinta acquisition position it as a compelling investment choice [24][26] - Puma Biotechnology's reliance on a single product and competition in the breast cancer market highlight vulnerabilities, making it a less attractive option [25][26]