Citi raises LENZ Therapeutics price target to $47, keeps Buy rating

Published 20/03/2025, 10:46
Citi raises LENZ Therapeutics price target to $47, keeps Buy rating

On Thursday, Citi analyst Yigal Nochomovitz increased the price target for LENZ Therapeutics Inc (NASDAQ:LENZ) to $47.00, up from the previous $44.00, while maintaining a Buy rating on the stock. Currently trading at $25.52, LENZ has seen a remarkable 57.53% return over the past year. The revision reflects the analyst’s growing confidence in the company’s progress and prospects, particularly regarding its leading product candidate, LNZ100. According to InvestingPro data, analyst targets for the stock range from $36 to $60.

LENZ Therapeutics is advancing towards a significant milestone with its Prescription Drug User Fee Act (PDUFA) date set for August 8, 2025, for LNZ100, an aceclidine eyedrop designed to treat presbyopia. The company’s recent mid-cycle review in the first quarter of 2025 was completed without issues, reinforcing Citi’s expectation of a high likelihood of approval for LNZ100. InvestingPro analysis shows the company maintains a GOOD overall financial health score, with more cash than debt on its balance sheet.

The analyst anticipates that the upcoming Commercial Day event, scheduled for April 15 in New York City, will offer more insight into LENZ’s marketing strategies. The event is expected to showcase a marketing approach that aligns more with a lifestyle brand, akin to Botox, rather than a traditional pharmaceutical product launch.

LENZ Therapeutics’ Vice President of Marketing, who has a history of working with globally recognized lifestyle brands such as Coca-Cola (NYSE:KO) and Red Bull, is set to participate in the April 15 event. The VP’s diverse background, which also includes experience in healthcare-related industries, is seen as a valuable asset to LENZ’s commercial endeavors.

In conclusion, the analyst reiterated a Buy rating for LENZ Therapeutics, signaling continued support for the stock based on the company’s disciplined approach to product development and the strategic preparation for the commercial launch of LNZ100.

In other recent news, LENZ Therapeutics reported its financial results for the fourth quarter of 2024, emphasizing its strong cash position and strategic focus on innovation. The company ended the year with $209.1 million in cash, which supports its financial stability as it prepares for the commercialization of its LNZ100 eye drop treatment. The company’s operating expenses in Q4 2024 were significantly reduced to $15.2 million from $25 million in the same period the previous year, reflecting efficient cost management. However, LENZ reported a net loss of $12.7 million, or $0.46 per share, for the quarter.

The company is advancing towards a potential product launch in the fourth quarter of 2025, with a PDUFA date scheduled for August 8, 2025. Meanwhile, regulatory progress appears favorable, with the FDA’s mid-cycle review noting no significant issues. LENZ is also preparing for the market by hiring a sales force aimed at engaging 15,000 eye care professionals. The firm is focusing on the presbyopia market, which is valued at over $3 billion, and aims to capitalize on its innovative LNZ100 product.

Analyst interactions during the earnings call highlighted strong prescriber interest and potential international expansion, particularly in China. Additionally, LENZ is exploring licensing opportunities outside the U.S. to bolster its market presence. Despite the anticipation of continued losses through FY2025, the company remains optimistic about its path towards revenue growth.

This article was generated with the support of AI and reviewed by an editor. For more information see our T&C.

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