S&P 500 rides Apple-led tech rally higher
On Wednesday, Deutsche Bank (ETR:DBKGn) initiated coverage on Immatics (NASDAQ:IMTX) with a Buy rating and a price target of $10.00 per share. Currently trading at $4.93, the stock has attracted strong analyst interest, with InvestingPro data showing an average analyst target of $14.50, suggesting significant upside potential. The firm’s analysis suggests a positive outlook for the company’s approach to treating second-line and beyond (2L+) Cutaneous Melanoma (mCM), particularly with its IMA203 product.
The research firm’s valuation is based on a discounted cash flow (DCF) model, reflecting confidence in Immatics’ potential to address the unmet needs in the 2L+ mCM patient population. Despite the mixed results from early and mid-stage clinical trials for Immatics’ TCR-based therapies, which include cell therapies and bispecifics, analysts believe that the company’s shares are undervalued. With a market capitalization of $599 million and a strong financial health score from InvestingPro, the company maintains more cash than debt on its balance sheet, though it’s important to note it’s currently burning through cash rapidly.
Immatics’ IMA203 therapy is being closely watched for its potential efficacy in mCM treatment. The pivotal Phase 3 SUPRAME trial, which is expected to release data by late 2026, could demonstrate whether IMA203 can achieve a 1-year overall survival (OS) rate of 75% or more. This would be a significant improvement over the current median OS of less than 16 months and 1-year OS rate of approximately 55% for patients with this condition.
The Phase 1 study results for IMA203 have been promising, showing a 54% complete or partial response rate and approximately six months progression-free survival (PFS). This performance surpasses data from competitors in the space. However, Immatics will need to prove that IMA203’s overall survival rates can match or exceed those of rival therapies, such as REPL’s RP-1 and IMCR’s Brene plus PD1 combination, both of which have shown similar 1-year OS rates. The stock has faced challenges, down nearly 58% over the past year and currently trading 64% below its 52-week high of $13.77.
In conclusion, Deutsche Bank’s analysts suggest that Immatics stock is well-positioned to overcome the relatively low clinical bar and realize gains from its current valuation, which is predominantly based on its cash reserves. According to InvestingPro analysis, the stock appears undervalued based on its Fair Value calculation, with 10+ additional ProTips available to subscribers that could provide deeper insights into the company’s financial health and growth potential.
In other recent news, Immatics has been the focus of attention following its latest earnings update, which provided insights into the company’s strategic direction and ongoing clinical developments. The company’s Phase 3 trial for IMA203, a PRAME cell therapy, is progressing with rapid patient enrollment, alongside four other Phase 1 studies currently underway. Cantor Fitzgerald analyst Eric Schmidt maintained an Overweight rating on Immatics, citing the proactive approach of the management team, led by CEO Harpreet Singh. Schmidt emphasized the strategic decision by Immatics to offer Opdualag to second-line patients in their European SUPRAME trial, a treatment typically approved only for first-line use. This move could make their trial more appealing to participants. Immatics is competing in a challenging landscape for melanoma studies, facing rivals like IMCR and REPL for patient recruitment. The analyst’s continued support reflects confidence in Immatics’ clinical advancements and potential future impact. These developments indicate a strong focus on expanding treatment options and enhancing trial appeal in a competitive market.
This article was generated with the support of AI and reviewed by an editor. For more information see our T&C.