Daily Brief Health Care: e-Therapeutics PLC, Lonza Group , TSE Tokyo Price Index TOPIX and more

e-therapeutics reported H1 FY24 results (to end-July 2023), reaffirming its commitment to integrating its computational and hepatocyte biology expertise to develop short interfering RNA (siRNA) therapies. The key half-year development was the proof-of-concept (PoC) data for two preclinical assets for the treatment of cardiometabolic disease and haemophilia, with further updates forthcoming. We view these pipeline updates, especially in segments with increased interest, as positive. Management continues to strengthen its intellectual property (IP) position and has filed new patent applications to protect 11 inventions relating to its novel targets and siRNA constructs. In our view, the company’s cost-effective and flexible approach is a key differentiator, especially in light of the challenging funding environment for drug discovery. In H1 FY24, R&D spend was £5.3m, and the company expects an increase in H2 FY24 with further development of its AI capabilities and progression of its in-house preclinical pipeline. At end-July 2023, e therapeutics had a net cash position of £24.8m.

• In 1H23, biologics division of Lonza Group (LONN SW) reported revenue decline of 1% YoY to CHF1.6B, due to low mRNA sales dragged by lower demand for the COVID-19 vaccines.
• Reflecting slower-than-expected growth in early-stage services and continued weak demand for nutraceutical capsules, Lonza has reduced 2023 sales growth expectation and cut core EBITDA margin guidance to 28–29%.   
• Growth in 2024 will be impacted by high base, the subsequent mRNA revenue loss, and trial setback faced by small biotech client. Lonza anticipates 2024 margin in the high twenties.

• 30% female board member set by TSE isn’t surprising, as it’s level within reach, but the fact that TSE set explicit target that companies can’t excuses is a first step.
• To ensure that a female board member isn’t isolated from other board members, multiple female board members should be elected. In this sense, 30% female board members goal makes sense.
• In fact, the most interesting question is how many more companies will approach 50% after achieving a 30% of female board members.