PFE vs BMY: Which Large Oncology Drugmaker Is a Better Pick Now?

Core Insights - Pfizer (PFE) and Bristol Myers (BMY) hold significant positions in the oncology market, which is expected to grow due to rising cancer patient numbers [2][3] - Both companies have strong fundamentals and growth drivers, making them attractive investment opportunities [3] Pfizer Overview - Pfizer's oncology portfolio includes various modalities such as small molecules and antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), targeting multiple cancer types [4] - Key approved drugs include Ibrance, Xtandi, and Padcev, with Ibrance being a major revenue contributor [5] - The acquisition of Seagen in December 2023 enhanced Pfizer's oncology portfolio, adding four ADCs and expected to boost sales in 2025 [6] - Pfizer's oncology biosimilars generated $1.3 billion in sales in 2025, reflecting a 26% year-over-year increase [7] - The company anticipates having eight or more blockbuster oncology medicines by 2030 [8] Bristol Myers Overview - Bristol Myers focuses on immuno-oncology (IO) and has a strong portfolio with drugs like Opdivo and Yervoy [10] - The FDA approval of a new subcutaneous formulation of Opdivo is expected to enhance its market reach [11] - Recent acquisitions, including Mirati and RayzeBio, have expanded its oncology pipeline [12][14] - Krazati, a KRAS inhibitor, is approved for specific lung cancer treatments and is in further development [13] - The collaboration with BioNTech aims to develop bispecific antibodies for various solid tumors [16] Financial Estimates - For 2026, Pfizer's sales are estimated to decrease by 2.51%, while earnings per share (EPS) are expected to decline by 7.76% [17] - In contrast, Bristol Myers' sales are projected to decrease by 2.44%, but EPS is expected to increase by 1.79% [19] Price Performance and Valuation - Year-to-date, Pfizer's shares have increased by 2%, while Bristol Myers' shares have decreased by 1.5% [22] - In terms of valuation, Bristol Myers trades at a forward P/E ratio of 9.49, slightly higher than Pfizer's 9.04 [22] - Pfizer offers a higher dividend yield of 6.47% compared to Bristol Myers' 4.27% [23] Investment Consideration - Both companies are seen as safe investments in the pharma/biotech sector, but Pfizer is currently viewed as a better pick due to its attractive valuation and diversified portfolio [24][26]