Belgian Court Ruling Extends Pfizer Covid Cash Flow And Legal Questions
A recent Belgian court ruling has ordered Poland and Romania to honor their multi-billion euro COVID-19 vaccine contracts with Pfizer/BioNTech, requiring them to take delivery and pay for contracted volumes. This decision provides a boost to Pfizer's near-term cash flow visibility from legacy COVID contracts, reinforcing the enforceability of pandemic-era procurement deals. However, the ruling is specific to one jurisdiction and doesn't negate broader pressures like declining COVID-related revenue, higher debt, and ongoing legal challenges such as the Paxlovid patent appeal.
West Pharmaceutical stock: What you should know now before buying
This report examines West Pharmaceutical Services, a key supplier in the medtech space for injectable drug packaging and delivery systems. It covers the company's business model, growth drivers, competitive position, and risks for investors. The article highlights how West Pharmaceutical benefits from the expanding injectable drug market and its strong moat through proprietary technology and established partnerships.
Morgan Stanley raises AstraZeneca stock price target on pipeline progress
Morgan Stanley has increased its price target for AstraZeneca (NASDAQ:AZN) shares to $220 from $219, maintaining an Overweight rating, citing positive pipeline developments and foreign exchange updates. This adjustment comes ahead of AstraZeneca's first-quarter 2026 results, with Morgan Stanley forecasting sales and earnings per share slightly above consensus due to strong performance in Oncology and cardiovascular, renal, and metabolism products. The company also highlighted recent positive Phase III trial results for Imfinzi, Imjudo, efzimfotase alfa, and tozorakimab.
Pfizer’s New Phase 1 PF-07328948 Study Signals Ongoing Pipeline Investment
Pfizer (PFE) has initiated a new Phase 1 study for its experimental drug PF-07328948 to understand its pharmacokinetics in healthy adult men. The study, which is not yet recruiting, will evaluate oral liquid and tablet forms, including a radiolabeled version, to determine absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion. This early-stage research supports Pfizer's long-term pipeline development but is not expected to be a near-term catalyst for the company's stock.
Pfizer Inc. stock underperforms Tuesday when compared to competitors
Pfizer Inc. (PFE) shares fell 2.62% to $27.10 on Tuesday, marking its third consecutive day of losses. This underperformance occurred during a mixed trading session where the S&P 500 Index rose, but the Dow Jones Industrial Average declined. The stock's movement was contrary to the overall market trend, showing a significant dip.
Takeda Pharmaceutical Co Ltd stock: What you should know now for smart investing
Takeda Pharmaceutical Co Ltd (JP3730800003) is highlighted as Japan's largest drugmaker, offering diversification in oncology, rare diseases, and other key therapeutic areas. The article details Takeda's core business, global reach, key revenue-driving products like Entyvio, and its robust R&D pipeline with over 40 clinical programs. It positions Takeda as a stable investment due to its strong financial health, strategic focus on high-need areas, competitive standing in the pharma industry, and a 4% dividend yield, while also addressing risks such as patent expirations and currency fluctuations.
Messenger RNA (mRNA) Market Projected to Reach $20.99 Billion by 2035 - Moderna, Pfizer, and Others Propel mRNA Expansion into New Therapeutic Areas
The global Messenger RNA (mRNA) market is set to expand significantly, reaching an estimated $20.99 billion by 2035, driven by its application in treating and preventing diseases, particularly in vaccines and therapeutics. This growth is bolstered by strong clinical validation, rapid development timelines, substantial investments, and advancements in delivery technologies. North America is a leading region due to its regulatory framework and manufacturing capabilities, with key players like Moderna and Pfizer continuing to innovate in this space.
Jefferies reiterates Teva stock rating on bispecific pipeline
Jefferies has reiterated a Buy rating and a $40.00 price target for Teva Pharmaceutical Industries (NYSE:TEVA), anticipating a 27% upside from its current share price. The positive outlook is primarily driven by Teva’s IL13 x TSLP bispecific antibody, which is slated to begin clinical trials in early 2027 and is currently undervalued by investors. The firm sees competitor data as partially de-risking Teva's program, and notes the stock is trading at a low P/E ratio relative to its near-term earnings growth.
Callan JMB Accelerates Cross-Jurisdiction Vaccine Redistribution to Combat Localized Outbreaks
Callan JMB has successfully redistributed short-dated vaccines and pharmaceuticals across different jurisdictions under a public health emergency contract. This initiative aimed to combat localized outbreaks by rapidly moving existing inventory to areas facing shortages, thereby improving access to essential products and reducing waste. The company highlights the importance of its emergency preparedness network and established processes in maintaining product integrity during transit.
Eosinophilic Esophagitis Market: Rapid Increment Driven by Innovation by 2034 – DelveInsight | Regeneron Pharma, Sanofi, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Ellodi Pharma, AstraZeneca, Allakos, EsoCap, Pfizer
The Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE) market is projected to reach approximately USD 1,800 Million in 2023 and grow significantly by 2034, driven by innovation and increasing prevalence. Key market players like Regeneron, Sanofi, and AstraZeneca are developing new therapies. Recent advancements include the FDA approval of DUPIXENT for pediatric EoE and promising clinical trial results for various epilepsy-related conditions, highlighting a dynamic pharmaceutical landscape.
Prediction: In 5 Years, You'll Wish You Bought Pfizer Stock Today
Despite a recent decline in revenue due to the temporary boost from its COVID products, Pfizer has been actively expanding its pipeline through significant acquisitions like Seagen and Metsera to secure future growth. The company's stock is currently undervalued, trading at a low valuation despite its blue-chip status and numerous drug candidates in development. Investors who overlook Pfizer at its current price point may regret it in five years due to its potential for significant upside as new assets offset patent cliffs.
Prediction: In 5 Years, You'll Wish You Bought Pfizer Stock Today
Despite recent revenue declines and concerns about growth, Pfizer is presented as a compelling investment due to its aggressive pipeline expansion through acquisitions like Seagen and Metsera. The article suggests that Pfizer's current low valuation, trading at less than 10 times estimated future earnings, offers significant upside potential, predicting that investors who overlook it now may regret it in five years.
RBC Capital reiterates Pfizer stock Underperform rating on product headwinds
RBC Capital has reaffirmed its "Underperform" rating and $25.00 price target for Pfizer (NYSE:PFE) due to mixed expectations for key products and a challenging start to 2026. The firm anticipates first-quarter 2026 revenues to be approximately 4% below consensus, largely influenced by competitive pressures on Vyndamax and Prevnar, and ongoing demand issues for Paxlovid. Upcoming catalysts include a Vyndamax bench trial on April 27 and Phase 3 data for sigvotatug vedotin in lung cancer during Q2 2026.
Hidradenitis Suppurativa Pipeline 2026: MOA and ROA Insights, Clinical Trials Status, and Key Companies Involved by DelveInsight | InflaRx, Novartis, UCB, AbbVie, Pfizer, Amgen, Incyte Corp, CSL
The DelveInsight report highlights the significant progress in the Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) pipeline, with over 24 companies developing new therapies. Recent advancements include FDA approval for Novartis's Cosentyx for pediatric HS and promising late-stage clinical trial results for Incyte's povorcitinib and UCB's BIMZELX. The report also details various emerging drugs, their mechanisms, and routes of administration, while addressing market drivers and barriers.
A third oral GLP-1 wins FDA approval, and Lexaria sees an opening
Lexaria Bioscience Corp. applauded the FDA approval of Eli Lilly's oral GLP-1 drug Foundayo for adult weight control, expanding the number of oral GLP-1 options to three. Lexaria sees this as an opportunity to integrate its DehydraTECH technology, which has shown promise in reducing the side effects commonly associated with GLP-1 drugs, into new formulations. Despite the positive market validation for oral GLP-1s, Lexaria's stock (LEXX) experienced an 8.44% decline following the news.
Oncolytic Virus Therapies Market: Strong Pharma Growth Forecast Through 2034 – DelveInsight | CG Oncology, Imugene, Amgen, Daiichi Sankyo, Genelux, Replimune, Binhui Biopharma
The Oncolytic Virus Therapies market is projected for strong growth through 2034, driven by increasing cancer prevalence and advancements in biotechnology. Key companies like CG Oncology, Imugene, and Amgen are developing various therapies, with several receiving FDA designations and progressing through clinical trials. The report highlights RP1 (Replimune Inc.) for advanced melanoma and discusses market drivers and barriers for this emerging cancer treatment approach.
Sanofi Bispecific Scores in Asthma, Rhinosinusitis, but Eczema Bet Doesn’t Pay Off
Sanofi's bispecific drug, lunsekimig, showed success in mid-stage trials for asthma and chronic rhinosinusitis, achieving primary endpoints in reducing exacerbations and improving symptoms. However, the therapy failed to meet its primary goal in a Phase 2b study for atopic dermatitis, though improvements were seen in a secondary endpoint. Despite the eczema setback, analysts had low expectations for that indication, and Sanofi views lunsekimig as a key asset for future growth, with ongoing trials in high-risk asthma and COPD.
Halozyme Announces Global Collaboration and License Agreement with Vertex Pharmaceuticals for Hypercon™ Technology
Halozyme Therapeutics, Inc. has entered into a global exclusive collaboration and license agreement with Vertex Pharmaceuticals for its Hypercon™ technology. This microparticle technology aims to reduce drug injection volumes, enabling more convenient at-home administration. The agreement includes a $15 million upfront payment to Halozyme, with potential for future milestone payments and royalties on net sales of developed products.
RBC Capital Maintains Pfizer(PFE.US) With Sell Rating, Maintains Target Price $25
RBC Capital has reiterated its Sell rating on Pfizer (PFE.US) and maintained its target price of $25. This indicates a continued bearish outlook from the firm regarding Pfizer's stock performance.
Nurix Therapeutics to Participate in Upcoming Investor Conference
Nurix Therapeutics, Inc. (Nasdaq: NRIX) announced that its president and chief executive officer, Arthur Sands, M.D., Ph.D., will participate in a fireside chat at the 25th Annual Needham Virtual Healthcare Conference on April 13, 2026. The company is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical firm focused on targeted protein degradation medicines for cancer and autoimmune diseases. Nurix has a pipeline of wholly-owned and partnered programs, leveraging its AI-integrated discovery engine and ligase expertise.
Leerink cuts BioNTech stock price target on drug trial concerns By Investing.com
Leerink Partners has lowered its price target for BioNTech (NASDAQ:BNTX) to $94 from $113, maintaining a Market Perform rating, due to concerns over drug trial outcomes and increased regulatory risks. The firm specifically cited a decreased likelihood of success for BioNTech’s next-generation CTLA-4 gotistobart in the Phase 3 PRESERVE-003 study and regulatory challenges with its COVID-19 vaccine, Comirnaty. Additionally, the impending departure of CEO Uğur Şahin and CMO Özlem Türeci has added to investor uncertainty, with the stock seeing an 11% decline since their announcement.
Sanofi’s bispecific scores double respiratory phase 2 wins, but flunks eczema study
Sanofi's lunsekimig, a bispecific TSLP and IL-13 inhibitor, demonstrated success in two Phase 2 studies for respiratory diseases, significantly reducing asthma exacerbations and nasal polyps. However, the drug failed to meet its primary endpoint in a Phase 2b eczema trial for moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis, despite showing improvements in secondary endpoints. These mixed results highlight the drug's potential for respiratory conditions but underscore Sanofi's ongoing challenge in finding a successor to its blockbuster eczema drug, Dupixent.
Azzad Asset Management Inc. ADV Has $3.70 Million Stake in Regency Centers Corporation $REG
Azzad Asset Management Inc. ADV significantly increased its stake in Regency Centers Corporation, boosting its holdings by 68.6% to 53,562 shares, valued at approximately $3.70 million. The company reports a "Moderate Buy" consensus rating from Wall Street analysts with a target price of $80.14, and recently declared a quarterly dividend of $0.755 per share, representing a 3.9% yield. Insider selling by Chairman Martin E. Stein, Jr. was also noted, reducing his direct ownership by 19.40%.
AbbVie Inc. $ABBV Stake Lowered by Albion Financial Group UT
Albion Financial Group UT significantly reduced its stake in AbbVie Inc. by 47.9% in Q4, selling 22,007 shares. Despite AbbVie beating Q4 earnings and revenue estimates, the stock was impacted by a trimmed Q1 and full-year outlook due to a $744M R&D charge. The company announced a quarterly dividend of $1.73, while institutional ownership stands at approximately 70% with analysts maintaining a "Moderate Buy" rating and a target price of $253.15.
Evotec Nominates Dieter Weinand as Supervisory Board Chairman
Evotec SE has nominated Dieter Weinand as the new Chairman of its Supervisory Board, with his election proposed for the Annual General Meeting on June 11, 2026. Weinand, an industry veteran with over 30 years of global pharmaceutical leadership experience, will succeed Prof. Dr. Iris Löw-Friedrich. This strategic appointment aims to bolster Evotec's commercial execution, strategic partnerships, and profitability, supporting its ongoing transformation.
AstraZeneca PLC (AZN) stock price, news, quote and history
This article provides a comprehensive overview of AstraZeneca PLC (AZN) stock, including its current price, market performance data, and financial statistics. It details the company's profile as a biopharmaceutical firm focusing on various therapeutic areas and lists several key pharmaceutical products. The report also includes analyst insights, earnings trends, and a comparison with similar companies in the drug manufacturing sector.
GSK : Receives a Sell rating from JP Morgan
JP Morgan analyst Zain Ebrahim has reiterated his "Sell" rating for pharmaceutical company GSK plc, maintaining a target price of GBX 1700. This news was published on MarketScreener, a financial news portal. GSK plc is a global biopharma company focused on vaccines, specialty medicines, and general medicine.
AbbVie Inc. (NYSE:ABBV) Receives Average Recommendation of "Moderate Buy" from Analysts
AbbVie Inc. (NYSE:ABBV) has an average "Moderate Buy" rating from analysts, with a 12-month average price target of $253.15, despite recent earnings weakness due to a $744M R&D charge. The company reported Q4 EPS of $2.71 on $16.62 billion revenue and offers an annualized dividend of $6.92, yielding about 3.3%. Institutional investors hold a significant portion of its stock, with recent insider selling noted.
BioNTech Shareholders to Vote on Pivotal Restructuring Measures
BioNTech SE is holding a virtual Annual General Meeting on May 15, 2026, where shareholders will vote on critical restructuring measures. These include a new tax structure to offset parent company losses against subsidiary profits, a request for new authorized capital of up to €129.5 million, and an expansion of the supervisory board from six to eight members to bring in oncology and clinical development expertise. These changes come as BioNTech faces declining revenues from its COVID-19 vaccine business and shifts its focus to a long-term oncology pipeline.
Biotech giant abandoning South San Francisco research site
Pfizer is closing its South San Francisco research site at 181 Oyster Point Blvd. by the end of April, with employees transitioning to remote roles, according to spokesperson Jerica Pitts. This move reflects a broader downturn in the Bay Area biotech sector, driven by decreasing investor funding and slowed drug development, following Pfizer's 2022 acquisition of Global Blood Therapeutics and subsequent layoffs.
VeraDermics Rises on Institutional Inflows Amid Mixed Signals
VeraDermics (MANE.N) recently saw a 9.00% price surge, fueled by strong institutional buying and cautious optimism from analysts, despite mixed technical signals. The company's future may be influenced by changes in patent law and growth in validation technologies. Investors are advised to monitor for volatility and clearer trend direction before making significant moves.
Mesoblast’s Ryoncil Achieves US$30.3 Million in Net Sales for March Quarter
Mesoblast Limited announced strong sales results for its product Ryoncil, with net sales reaching US$30.3 million for the quarter ending March 31, 2026. This performance contributed to nearly US$100 million in revenue since Ryoncil's launch, strengthening the company's balance sheet. Mesoblast will host an R&D Day on April 8, 2026, to discuss its growth strategy for Ryoncil and its pipeline, emphasizing the product's significance as the first FDA-approved mesenchymal stromal cell product.
Spikevax Vaccine: Key Role in mRNA COVID Protection
The article highlights Spikevax, Moderna's mRNA COVID-19 vaccine, and its crucial role in preventing severe illness from SARS-CoV-2. It details the vaccine's mRNA technology, high efficacy, adaptability to new variants, and global distribution. Furthermore, the piece discusses Spikevax's market relevance, future developments in mRNA vaccine technology, and Moderna's contribution to public health.
Pfizer to close South San Francisco research site by end of April
Pfizer is closing its 164,000-square-foot research site in South San Francisco by the end of April, with employees transitioning to remote roles due to underutilization of the office space. This closure adds to a downward trend for biotech companies in the Bay Area, which has seen investor funding dry up since the pandemic. Pfizer had previously acquired Global Blood Therapeutics at this location in 2022, only to lay off workers less than two years later.
Pfizer Inc. stock underperforms Monday when compared to competitors
Pfizer Inc. (PFE) shares fell 1.73% on Monday, closing at $27.83, despite an overall positive trading day for the stock market. Both the S&P 500 Index and the Dow Jones Industrial Average saw gains. This marked the second consecutive day of losses for Pfizer's stock.
Rocket Pharmaceuticals (NASDAQ: RCKT) seeks vote on director slate and option exchange
Rocket Pharmaceuticals (NASDAQ: RCKT) is holding its 2026 annual stockholder meeting on May 20, 2026, to vote on the election of seven directors, the ratification of EisnerAmper LLP as auditor, a non-binding advisory vote on executive pay, and the approval of a stock option exchange program. This virtual meeting will also address a 2025 strategic reorganization that reduced headcount by 30% and is expected to cut operating expenses by nearly 25%. The proposed stock option exchange program aims to enhance employee retention and motivation by allowing eligible employees to exchange "underwater" stock options for new options on a value-neutral basis, thereby reducing equity overhang.
Travere Therapeutics (TVTX) seeks approval to add 3M shares to 2018 equity plan
Travere Therapeutics (TVTX) is seeking stockholder approval at its 2026 Annual Meeting to increase the number of shares authorized for its 2018 Equity Incentive Plan by 3 million. This increase is deemed crucial for attracting, retaining, and motivating employees to support the company's growth, including the commercial launch of FILSPARI® (sparsentan) for IgAN and potential approval for FSGS. The proposal emphasizes that equity awards are essential for aligning employee incentives with stockholder interests, especially given the company's significant business expansion and competitive biopharmaceutical labor market.
Bristol-Myers Squibb Company (BMY) latest stock news and headlines
This Yahoo Finance page provides the latest news and headlines for Bristol-Myers Squibb Company (BMY), including various articles from sources like Zacks, Simply Wall St., Insider Monkey, and GlobeNewswire. The news covers topics such as dividend stocks, valuation, trial data for drugs like Camzyos, and market reports on related sectors. It also includes stock performance data with year-to-date, 1-year, and 3-year returns compared to the S&P 500.
Science Will Win season finale explores AI in cancer care with Pfizer Chief Oncology Officer Jeff Legos
The sixth season finale of Pfizer's "Science Will Win" podcast, which has reached 3 million downloads, focuses on the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in cancer care and research. Hosted by Dr. Raven Baxter, the episode features Pfizer Chief Oncology Officer Jeff Legos and other experts discussing how AI and digital technologies are being integrated to accelerate oncology advances and connect scientific breakthroughs with patient care. The season has explored various aspects of oncology, from early-onset cancer to survivorship and the contributions of women in the field.
Parkinson’s Disease Pipeline 2026: Therapies, MOA Insights, and Key Clinical Trial Updates by DelveInsight | AbbVie, Pfizer, Novartis, F. Roche, Kissei Pharma, AstraZeneca, Prevail Therapeutics
DelveInsight's "Parkinson’s Disease Pipeline Insight, 2026" report outlines the current clinical development landscape for Parkinson's Disease, highlighting over 80 companies and 100+ therapies in various stages of development. The report details emerging therapies, their mechanisms of action, clinical study updates, and factors influencing the market. Recent advancements include new FDA approvals, promising stem cell therapies, and the progression of several drugs into late-stage clinical trials, alongside some discontinuations.
Amgen scores with trial of on-body injected version of Tepezza in thyroid eye disease
Amgen has found a potential way to boost sales of its thyroid eye disease (TED) treatment, Tepezza, through a new patient-friendly subcutaneous injection administered via an on-body injector (OBI). A phase 3 trial demonstrated that Tepezza OBI achieved comparable efficacy to the current intravenous (IV) formulation, meeting its primary endpoint with a 77% proptosis response rate. This new delivery method aims to increase patient convenience and accessibility for the drug, which has seen stagnant sales despite being the only approved treatment for TED.
How AI Is Already Reshaping Cancer Care
Artificial intelligence (AI) is already significantly transforming cancer care, particularly in streamlining clinical trial processes and drug discovery. Pfizer, through experts like Jeanine Bortel and Tamara Mansfeld, is utilizing AI to identify eligible patients for trials more quickly, thereby broadening access to potentially life-changing treatments and accelerating breakthroughs in oncology research. This use of AI, including machine learning and large language models, is improving efficiency, precision, and the overall speed of developing new cancer therapies.
With Sanofi and Pfizer deals, Novavax bets on ‘amplification strategy’ to drive vaccines engine
Novavax is shifting its business model from a fully integrated commercial player to an "amplification strategy," focusing on licensing its Matrix-M vaccine adjuvant to other biopharma companies like Sanofi and Pfizer. This pivot follows Novavax's realization that commercializing its own vaccines was too expensive and that its core strength lies in its science and adjuvant technology. Through this partnership model, Novavax aims to increase access to its platform, reduce expenses, and generate royalties from product sales.
Evercore ISI Adjusts Price Target on Bio-Techne to $54 From $68, Maintains In Line Rating
Evercore ISI has revised its price target for Bio-Techne (NASDAQ: TECH) down to $54 from $68, while keeping an "In Line" rating on the stock. This adjustment reflects a change in the analyst's outlook for the biotechnology and medical research company. The article also lists recent news regarding Bio-Techne, including product expansions and presentations at healthcare conferences.
BioCryst names Sandeep Menon as chief R&D officer
BioCryst Pharmaceuticals has appointed Dr. Sandeep M. Menon as Chief Research and Development Officer. Dr. Menon previously served as Chief Development Officer at Alnylam Pharmaceuticals and held senior R&D leadership roles at Pfizer. This appointment follows BioCryst's strong financial momentum, with a 94% revenue surge and a 28% stock return over the last six months, and analysts predicting continued profitability.
Merck & Co., Inc. $MRK Shares Purchased by Savvy Advisors Inc.
Savvy Advisors Inc. increased its stake in Merck & Co., Inc. by 50.9% in Q4, acquiring 8,627 additional shares, bringing their total to 25,567 shares valued at $2.69 million. This occurred despite significant insider selling totaling over $38 million in the past three months. Merck reported strong quarterly earnings, beating estimates, and announced a quarterly dividend of $0.85 per share along with positive news regarding new drug approvals and trial results.
Bristol-Myers Squibb Company stock: What you should know now
This report provides an in-depth analysis of Bristol-Myers Squibb Company stock, assessing its business, risks, and analyst views to help investors decide if it's a worthwhile addition to their portfolio. It covers the company's strong oncology and immunology lineup, financial performance, strategic market position, and potential risks like tariff proposals and patent expirations. The article also highlights analyst sentiment and key factors investors should monitor for future performance.
Amgen Inc. stock: Pipeline pivot eyes $37-38B sales amid biosimilar risks
Amgen Inc. is strategically pivoting its pipeline to achieve $37-38.4 billion in sales by 2026, driven by next-generation drugs like the obesity candidate MariTide. This move is crucial for counteracting biosimilar erosion on its legacy products and positions Amgen as a resilient biotech play with strong dividend potential for global investors. The company aims to balance mature cash cows with innovative treatments in key areas like obesity and oncology, while maintaining robust financial health and attractive margins.
Capricorn Fund Managers Ltd Invests $4.12 Million in Pfizer Inc. $PFE
Capricorn Fund Managers Ltd recently invested $4.12 million to acquire a new stake of 165,569 shares in Pfizer Inc. during the fourth quarter. This move comes as Pfizer reported strong Q4 results, surpassing analyst expectations with $0.66 EPS and $17.56 billion in revenue, despite a slight year-over-year revenue decrease. Institutional investors collectively own a significant portion of Pfizer, holding about 68.36% of the company's stock, while analysts currently maintain an average "Hold" rating with a target price of $28.19.
AstraZeneca PLC (AZN.L) stock price, news, quote and history
This page provides a comprehensive overview of AstraZeneca PLC (AZN.L) stock, including its current price, historical performance data, key financial metrics, and analyst insights. It details the company's business activities as a biopharmaceutical firm, its product portfolio across various therapeutic areas, and strategic collaborations. The page also includes comparisons with similar companies in the drug manufacturing sector.