Did Biogen Run Too Much After Earnings?

Biogen Idec Inc. (NASDAQ: BIIB) announced its fourth-quarter financials Thursday after the markets closed. The company reported revenue of $2.6 billion, up 34% from the fourth quarter of the previous year. Revenues were in line with consensus estimates. Earnings per share (EPS) in the fourth quarter grew 74% to $4.09. However, EPS came over the top of the consensus estimate of $3.76.

The company also announced its 2015 full year guidance. Revenue growth is expected to be approximately 14% to 16% over 2014 revenues, and EPS are expected to be in the range of $16.60 to $17.00. The consensus estimates are $11.22 billion in revenues and $16.37 in EPS.

The company reported its drug revenues as:

• Interferon: $777 million
• Tecfidera: $916 million
• Tysabri: $484 million
• Rituxan and Gazyva: $305 million
• Alprolix: $40 million
• Eloctate: $37 million

CEO George A. Scangos said:

2014 was a remarkable year for our company and the patients we serve. The growth of TECFIDERA in world markets, the improved performance of TYSABRI and our entry into the treatment of hemophilia demonstrated our strength as a commercial organization while benefiting patients in many countries around the world.

Credit Suisse made a call prior to earnings on Thursday that might have reassured some investors. The brokerage firm reiterated an Outperform rating with a price target of $400.

Shares of Biogen were up 6% at $374.00 in after-hours trading following the earnings report. However, during regular trading Friday morning, shares jumped more than 12% to a new 52-week high of $397. The 52-week low is $272.02, and the consensus analyst price target is $383.

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