manufacturers; and other important factors discussed under the caption "Risk Factors†in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024 and our Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q for the quarterly periods ended March 31, 2025, June 30, 2025, and September 30, 2025 as any such factors may be updated from time to time in our other filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), which are accessible on the SEC's website at [www.sec.gov] and the Investors page of our website unde ...

Gene Editing Has Struggled To Go Commercial. This Nobel Laureate Has A $1 Billion Plan To Fix That. https://t.co/PWaoNvXRcK (📸: Cody Pickens for Forbes) https://t.co/Kt11n25QpL ...

Group 1: Company Overview - CRISPR Therapeutics AG (NASDAQ: CRSP) is a leading biotech company specializing in gene editing, utilizing CRISPR-based technology for precise gene editing to treat diseases [2] - The company has commercialized its technology, providing a revenue stream and potential for future growth, with its main competitor being Editas Medicine [2] Group 2: Recent Developments - Geulah Livshits from Chardan Capital set a price target of $76 for CRSP, indicating a potential increase of 43.21% from its closing price of $53.07 on February 13, 2026, supported by the FDA approval of its gene-editing therapy, Casgevy, for sickle cell disease [3] - Despite a fourth-quarter loss of $1.37 per share and total revenue of only $864,000, CRSP's stock rose by 8.46%, attributed to its collaboration with Vertex Pharmaceuticals, which also experienced a stock increase of 6.51% [4] - Casgevy therapy generated $54 million in revenue during the fourth quarter of 2025 and $116 million for the entire year, with 147 patients beginning treatment in 2025, nearly tripling from the previous year [4] Group 3: Market Performance - The stock for CRSP closed at $53.07 on February 13, reflecting an 8.46% increase from the prior day, with fluctuations between $49.62 and $54.10, and a market capitalization of approximately $5.09 billion [5] - The trading volume was 2,465,000 shares on the NASDAQ exchange, indicating active market participation despite challenges [5]

Core Insights - Casgevy, the gene-editing therapy for sickle cell disease and transfusion-dependent beta thalassemia, generated $54 million in Q4 revenue and $116 million for the full year, with 64 patients receiving infusions in 2025, including 30 in Q4 [1] - The initiation of treatment for 147 patients globally in 2025 nearly tripled compared to 2024, indicating strong momentum heading into 2026 [1][2] - William Blair analysts express confidence that the increase in first cell collections will lead to significantly higher revenue in 2026 [2] - The company is advancing its in vivo liver editing programs, with CTX310 in Phase 1b trials for lipid disorders and CTX321 progressing through enabling studies, with updates expected in H2 2026 [2] - The siRNA-based candidate CTX611 is in Phase 2 trials for knee replacement surgery patients and may have broader applications in thromboembolic diseases [3] - CRISPR Therapeutics ended 2025 with $1.98 billion in cash and marketable securities, while R&D expenses rose to $83.5 million in Q4, and the net loss widened to $130.6 million from $37.3 million a year earlier [4] - CRISPR Therapeutics shares increased by 8.81% to $53.24 at the time of publication [4]

Core Insights - CRISPR Therapeutics reported financial results for Q4 and full year 2025, highlighting progress in its clinical and preclinical pipeline, including advancements in autoimmune diseases and oncology, as well as the global uptake of its therapy CASGEVY [1][2] Financial Performance - CASGEVY generated Q4 2025 revenue of $54 million and full year revenue of $116 million, with a significant increase in patient initiations and first cell collections, nearly tripling from 2024 to 2025 [5] - Cash, cash equivalents, and marketable securities totaled $1,975.8 million as of December 31, 2025, up from $1,903.8 million in 2024, primarily due to common share issuance and interest income [14] - R&D expenses for Q4 2025 were $83.5 million, an increase from $71.7 million in Q4 2024, driven by higher licensing fees [14] - The net loss for Q4 2025 was $130.6 million, compared to a net loss of $37.3 million in Q4 2024 [14] Pipeline Developments - The company is advancing its in vivo liver editing portfolio and has made progress with its siRNA collaboration with Sirius Therapeutics [2][4] - CTX310, targeting ANGPTL3, is in Phase 1b trials for severe hypertriglyceridemia and refractory hypercholesterolemia, with updates expected in H2 2026 [5] - CTX460, targeting SERPINA1 for alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency, is expected to enter clinical trials in mid-2026 [5] - Zugo-cel is in ongoing Phase 1 trials for autoimmune diseases and hematologic malignancies, with updates anticipated in H2 2026 [10][17] Market Expansion - CASGEVY is approved in multiple regions, including the U.S., EU, and several Middle Eastern countries, with approximately 90% of U.S. patients having reimbursed access [5] - The company is expanding its regenerative medicine portfolio, including CTX213 for Type 1 diabetes, which has shown promising preclinical efficacy [9] Collaborations - CRISPR Therapeutics has a strategic collaboration with Vertex Pharmaceuticals for CASGEVY, with Vertex leading global development and commercialization [13] - The collaboration with Sirius Therapeutics focuses on developing siRNA therapies, with CTX611 being a key program targeting FXI for thromboembolic disorders [19]

Core Viewpoint - Intellia Therapeutics is experiencing a recovery in its stock price following regulatory approval for one of its clinical studies, indicating potential for continued growth in the gene-editing biotech sector [2][5]. Company Overview - Intellia Therapeutics is currently ranked 25th on Ark Invest's holdings list and has seen its shares increase by 41% [2]. - The company's market capitalization stands at $1.4 billion, with a current stock price of $12.28 [8]. Product Pipeline - Intellia's leading candidates, lonvo-z and nex-z, target rare diseases, with nex-z recently receiving clearance from the FDA to proceed with one of its phase 3 studies [4][5]. - Nex-z aims to treat transthyretin amyloidosis, affecting approximately 50,000 patients with the hereditary form and between 200,000 to 500,000 with the wild type [8][9]. - Lonvo-z targets hereditary angioedema (HAE), which has around 150,000 patients globally [9]. Market Potential - The market for HAE is projected to reach $6.3 billion by 2030, while the transthyretin amyloidosis market is expected to be valued at $16.8 billion by the same year [10]. - Despite the large addressable markets, Intellia faces significant clinical and regulatory challenges that could impact its share price [10]. Financial Metrics - Intellia Therapeutics has a gross margin of 78.27% [8]. - The stock has shown volatility, with a 52-week range of $5.90 to $28.25 [8]. Investment Considerations - The biotech sector, particularly companies focused on gene editing, carries inherent risks due to the complexity and cost of treatments, which may hinder market traction even after regulatory approval [6][10]. - Investors should be cautious, as the stock remains risky, particularly for those not comfortable with high volatility [11].

Core Insights - Cibus is participating in a significant research project funded by the UK Government to develop durable resistance to Light Leaf Spot disease in oilseed rape, which has caused yield losses of up to £300 million in recent years [1][3][5] Group 1: Project Overview - The project is part of the Farming Innovation Programme, with Defra investing in mid-stage precision breeding projects to enhance the resilience and productivity of UK agriculture [2][5] - Cibus will utilize its proprietary Rapid Trait Development System™ to create precise gene edits in elite oilseed rape breeding lines, aiming to combat Light Leaf Spot disease [3][4] Group 2: Collaboration and Goals - The LLS-ERASED project involves a consortium of 12 industry and academic partners, targeting the UK's most destructive oilseed rape disease to deliver high-yielding varieties with durable, multi-disease resistance [3][4] - The project aligns with the Genetic Technology (Precision Breeding) Act 2023, positioning England as a global hub for gene-edited crop development [4] Group 3: Funding and Support - The Defra Farming Innovation Programme, in partnership with Innovate UK, will provide at least £21.5 million in funding for 15 innovation projects aimed at developing sustainable crops and supporting farmers [5]

Financial Performance - Corteva reported a strong year in 2025, with low single-digit top-line growth and low double-digit operating EBITDA growth, resulting in over 200 basis points of margin expansion, reaching over 22% for the first time as a public company [8][10] - Organic sales for the fourth quarter were down 4% year-over-year, with crop protection experiencing volume and price declines of 2% and 1% respectively, while seed saw a 3% price increase but an 8% volume decline [17][18] - For the full year, organic sales were up 4%, with seed and crop protection both contributing to growth, and operating EBITDA increased by 14% [19][20] Business Line Performance - The seed business achieved organic growth in every region, with significant cost improvements and share gains in corn and soybeans, delivering about $340 million in net cost improvements [9][21] - The crop protection business also showed growth, generating over $300 million in productivity and cost benefits, despite challenging market conditions [10][22] Market Insights - The overall agricultural fundamentals remain mixed, with record demand for food and fuel, and major crop inventories within normal ranges despite large crops in Brazil and North America [10][11] - Farmers are prioritizing top-tier seed technologies while managing tighter margins, with expectations of a shift back to soybeans in 2026 due to high corn area in the U.S. [11] Strategic Direction - Corteva is on track for a separation in the second half of 2026, with ongoing preparations for executive leadership announcements and capital structure submissions [6][7] - The company reached a comprehensive resolution with Bayer regarding seed freedom to operate, which is expected to accelerate licensing opportunities and provide business certainty [12][14] Management Commentary - Management expressed confidence in the 2026 outlook, reiterating a preliminary operating EBITDA midpoint of $4.1 billion, reflecting a 7% growth compared to the prior year [11][23] - The company is focused on controlling costs and maintaining operational efficiency while navigating competitive pricing dynamics in key markets [10][11] Other Important Information - Free cash flow improved significantly, reaching $2.9 billion, driven by increased EBITDA and working capital discipline [22] - The company plans to return approximately $500 million to shareholders through share repurchases in the first half of 2026 [23] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you break down the Bayer litigation agreement and its impact on licensing? - Management highlighted that the agreement provides freedom to operate and access to the licensing market, accelerating corn licensing to as early as 2027 and entering the cotton licensing market [31][33] Question: What is the impact of the Bayer agreement on existing licensing expenses? - Management confirmed that a portion of the $120 million net royalty benefit in 2026 comes from eliminated Bayer royalties, leading to a net-neutral position two years ahead of expectations [38][39] Question: How do you view the U.S. order books for the upcoming year? - Management reported strong order books with prepay collected on par with the prior year, indicating a positive start to the year despite potential shifts in corn and soybean acreage [54][56] Question: What is the outlook for free cash flow in 2026? - Management indicated that while free cash flow is expected to be lower than 2025 due to working capital normalization, it remains aligned with long-term targets [59][61] Question: Can you provide an update on Conkesta soybeans in Brazil? - Management expects to double market share in 2026, transitioning fully to licensing through multipliers, with significant momentum anticipated [67][81]

Financial Performance - Corteva reported a strong year in 2025, with fourth-quarter results aligning with expectations, except for stronger cash flow generation than anticipated. The company achieved low single-digit top-line growth and low double-digit operating EBITDA growth, resulting in over 200 basis points of margin expansion, surpassing 22% for the first time as a public company [7][19]. - For the fourth quarter, organic sales decreased by 4% year-over-year, with crop protection experiencing volume and price declines of 2% and 1%, respectively. Seed pricing increased by 3%, but volume declined by 8% due to timing shifts [15][16]. Business Line Performance - The seed business showed organic growth across all regions, with significant net cost improvements of approximately $340 million and $90 million in royalty improvements, particularly in North America corn and soybean licensing in Brazil. The company anticipates crossing double-digit trait penetration for Conkesta in Brazil [8][12]. - The crop protection business also performed well, achieving top and bottom line growth despite challenging market conditions. The business generated over $300 million in productivity and cost benefits, with a strong pipeline of differentiated technologies valued at $9 billion [9][10]. Market Insights - The agricultural fundamentals remain mixed, with record demand for food and fuel, while major crop inventories are within normal ranges despite large crops in Brazil and North America. Farmers are prioritizing top-tier seed technologies while managing tighter margins [10][11]. - The company expects modest growth in the crop protection market for 2026, with competitive pricing dynamics persisting in major markets, including Latin America and Asia-Pacific [10][11]. Strategic Direction - Corteva is on track for a separation in the second half of 2026, with ongoing preparations for executive leadership teams and capital structure submissions. The company aims to sharpen focus, accelerate innovation, and unlock value through this transition [4][5][14]. - A recent agreement with Bayer regarding seed freedom to operate is expected to enhance licensing opportunities and provide business certainty, allowing for accelerated introduction of proprietary technologies [11][12]. Management Commentary - Management expressed confidence in the 2026 outlook, reiterating a preliminary operating EBITDA midpoint of $4.1 billion, reflecting a 7% growth compared to the prior year. The guidance includes momentum in seed licensing, growth in crop protection volumes, and productivity benefits [10][20]. - The company highlighted the importance of gene editing technology and its potential impact on profitability for farmers, with expectations for regulatory approvals in Europe and China [48][49]. Other Important Information - Free cash flow improved significantly to $2.9 billion, driven by increased EBITDA and working capital discipline. The company plans to return approximately $500 million to shareholders through share repurchases in the first half of 2026 [19][21]. - The company anticipates a currency tailwind in 2026, primarily from the Brazilian real, euro, and Canadian dollar, which is expected to positively impact net sales and operating EBITDA [23]. Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you break down the Bayer litigation and its impact on licensing? - Management expressed satisfaction with the agreement, highlighting increased access to the licensing market and freedom to operate, which accelerates corn licensing to 2027 and opens opportunities in cotton [30][31]. Question: What is the impact of the Bayer agreement on existing licensing expenses? - The company confirmed a net royalty benefit of $120 million in 2026, with some Bayer royalties no longer applicable, leading to a net-neutral position two years ahead of expectations [36][40]. Question: How do you view the U.S. order books for the upcoming year? - Management reported strong order books, with prepay collections on par with the prior year, indicating a positive start to the year despite potential shifts in corn and soybean acreage [51][52]. Question: What are the expectations for free cash flow in 2026? - The company anticipates a slight decrease in free cash flow as working capital normalizes, but overall performance is expected to align with long-term targets [55][57]. Question: Can you provide updates on Conkesta soybeans in Brazil? - Management expects to double market share in 2026, with significant contributions to earnings from the Conkesta transition [63][76].

Financial Performance - Corteva reported a strong year in 2025, with fourth-quarter results meeting expectations, except for stronger cash flow generation than anticipated [6] - The company achieved low single-digit top-line growth and low double-digit operating EBITDA growth, resulting in over 200 basis points of margin expansion, reaching over 22% for the first time as a public company [6][18] - Organic sales for the fourth quarter were down 4% year-over-year, with crop protection experiencing volume and price declines of 2% and 1% respectively [14][15] - For the full year, organic sales increased by 4%, with crop protection volume up 5% and seed price, mix, and volume gains of 3% and 2% respectively [16][18] Business Line Performance - The seed business showed organic growth in every region, with significant net cost improvements and royalty improvements, particularly in North America corn and Brazil soybean licensing [7][17] - The crop protection business also delivered growth and margin expansion, generating over $300 million in productivity and cost benefits [8][18] - The company expects to see modest growth in crop protection in 2026, despite competitive pricing dynamics in major markets [9][19] Market Insights - Overall agricultural fundamentals remain mixed, with record demand for food and fuel, and major crop inventories within normal ranges [8][9] - Farmers are prioritizing top-tier seed technologies while managing tighter margins, leading to a potential shift back to soybeans in 2026 [9][19] Strategic Direction - Corteva is on track for a separation in the second half of 2026, with ongoing preparations for executive leadership teams and capital structure submissions [4][5] - The company reached a resolution with Bayer regarding seed freedom to operate, which is expected to accelerate licensing opportunities and provide business certainty [10][11] - The resolution is anticipated to generate about $1 billion in aggregate earnings upside over the next decade through outlicensing and branded sales [12] Management Commentary - Management expressed confidence in the company's performance and outlook for 2026, reiterating a preliminary operating EBITDA midpoint of $4.1 billion, representing a 7% growth compared to the prior year [9][19] - The company is focused on controlling operational efficiencies and maintaining strong cash flow, with a commitment to returning cash to shareholders [23] Other Important Information - Free cash flow improved significantly to $2.9 billion, driven by increased EBITDA and working capital discipline [18][23] - The company plans to target approximately $500 million in share repurchases in the first half of 2026 [19] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you break down the Bayer litigation impact? - Management highlighted that the agreement provides freedom to operate and increased access to the licensing market, accelerating corn licensing to as early as 2027 and entering the cotton licensing market [26][28] Question: Is there existing licensing expense that will no longer be incurred? - Management confirmed that a portion of the $120 million net royalty benefit in 2026 comes from Bayer royalties that will not be paid, leading to a net-neutral position two years ahead of expectations [33][34] Question: What is the status of Conkesta soybeans in Brazil? - Management indicated that they expect to double market share in 2026, transitioning to a focus on licensing through multipliers [61][64] Question: How do you view the productivity benefits for 2026? - Management stated that the $200 million productivity benefits are split equally between seed and crop protection, with ongoing opportunities for improvements [89]