Bank of America Upgrades Apellis Pharmaceuticals to Buy, Highlights Strong Empaveli Launch
Written by Emily J. Thompson, Senior Investment Analyst
Updated: Jan 21 2026
0mins
Should l Buy APLS?
Source: seekingalpha
- Strong Market Performance: Since receiving FDA approval for Empaveli in July for C3 glomerulopathy, Apellis has recorded 267 new patient start forms, indicating robust market demand and product acceptance.
- Payer Progress: Management reports no full denials to date, suggesting that Empaveli's broader label and superior efficacy compared to Novartis' Fabhalta have facilitated rapid market penetration.
- EU Approval Boost: Apellis' partner Sobi recently received EU approval for the drug against C3G and IC-MPGN, further enhancing Empaveli's competitive position in international markets.
- Growth Potential: With the price target unchanged at $28 per share, analysts believe there is room for continued upside as momentum builds in the coming quarters.
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Analyst Views on APLS
Wall Street analysts forecast APLS stock price to fall
14 Analyst Rating
9 Buy
5 Hold
0 Sell
Moderate Buy
Current: 40.390
Low
19.00
Averages
31.69
High
48.00
Current: 40.390
Low
19.00
Averages
31.69
High
48.00
About APLS
Apellis Pharmaceuticals, Inc. is a commercial-stage biopharmaceutical company. The Company is focused on the discovery, development and commercialization of novel therapeutic compounds to treat diseases with high unmet needs through the inhibition of the complement system. SYFOVRE (pegcetacoplan injection) is the Company’s approved treatment for geographic atrophy secondary to age-related macular degeneration (GA). Its EMPAVELI (pegcetacoplan) is for the treatment of paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH). Its Aspaveli (pegcetacoplan) for the treatment of adults with PNH who are anemic after treatment with a C5 inhibitor for at least three months. Systemic pegcetacoplan has also been approved for the treatment of PNH in Japan, Saudi Arabia, Australia, the United Kingdom and other jurisdictions. Systemic pegcetacoplan is marketed under the trade name EMPAVELI in the United States, Saudi Arabia and Australia and Aspaveli in the European Union, Japan and the United Kingdom.
About the author
Emily J. Thompson
Emily J. Thompson, a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) with 12 years in investment research, graduated with honors from the Wharton School. Specializing in industrial and technology stocks, she provides in-depth analysis for Intellectia’s earnings and market brief reports.
Biogen Acquires Apellis to Strengthen Immunology Position
- Acquisition Details: Biogen has agreed to acquire Apellis for $41 per share in cash, valuing the deal at approximately $5.6 billion, which is expected to enhance Biogen's market position in immunology and rare diseases while providing immediate revenue.
- Expanded Drug Portfolio: The acquisition adds two commercial medicines, EMPAVELI and SYFOVRE, to Biogen's portfolio, with projected combined net sales of $689 million by 2025 and a mid-to-high teens growth rate through at least 2028, significantly improving the company's long-term growth outlook.
- Significant Clinical Outcomes: EMPAVELI is the only FDA-approved treatment for C3G, demonstrating a 68% reduction in proteinuria in the VALIANT study, while SYFOVRE has shown substantial reductions in GA lesion growth in the OAKS and DERBY studies, further solidifying Biogen's expansion in nephrology.
- Future Outlook and Employee Integration: Biogen expects to integrate a significant portion of Apellis employees post-transaction, with plans to close the deal in Q2 2026, further enhancing the company's capabilities in treating kidney diseases with the anticipated launch of Felzartamab.
See More
Investor Rights Law Firm Investigates Multiple Companies
- Legal Investigation: Halper Sadeh LLC is investigating Apellis Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (NASDAQ: APLS) regarding its sale to Biogen Inc. for $41.00 per share in cash and two contingent value rights of $2.00 each, which may impact shareholder rights.
- Shareholder Rights Protection: The firm is also examining Centessa Pharmaceuticals plc (NASDAQ: CNTA) and its sale to Eli Lilly for $38.00 per share in cash plus a contingent value right of up to $9.00, aiming to ensure fair compensation for shareholders.
- Merger Transaction Review: Equitable Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: EQH) is merging with Corebridge Financial, Inc., allowing Equitable shareholders to own approximately 49% of the combined company, with Halper Sadeh LLC potentially seeking increased consideration.
- Shareholder Rights Advocacy: The merger of VYNE Therapeutics Inc. (NASDAQ: VYNE) with Yarrow Bioscience, Inc. is expected to leave VYNE shareholders with only about 3% of the combined company, prompting Halper Sadeh LLC to advocate for enhanced shareholder rights.
See More
Biogen's $5.6 Billion Acquisition of Apellis Pharmaceuticals Fails to Boost Stock Price
- Acquisition Overview: Biogen announced its agreement to acquire Apellis Pharmaceuticals for $41 per share in cash, totaling approximately $5.6 billion; however, despite a nearly 3% rise in the broader market, Biogen's stock fell over 2%, indicating investor skepticism about the deal.
- Drug Portfolio Insight: Apellis has two FDA-approved treatments, including Syfovre for age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and Empaveli for rare diseases, and Biogen's acquisition aims to enhance its portfolio in immunology and rare diseases, which are critical growth areas.
- Market Reaction Analysis: Although Biogen's CEO stated that the acquisition would bolster the company's growth potential, investor sentiment appears cautious, leading to a decline in stock price even as the market rallied, reflecting doubts about the deal's immediate value.
- Strategic Transformation: Biogen is transitioning from its previous focus on multiple sclerosis to emerging therapeutic areas like Alzheimer's and postpartum depression, and this acquisition underscores its commitment to future growth, despite the negative short-term market reaction.
See More
Biogen to Acquire Apellis Pharmaceuticals for $5.6 Billion
- Acquisition Overview: Biogen has announced its agreement to acquire Apellis Pharmaceuticals for $41 per share in cash, totaling approximately $5.6 billion, which will enhance Biogen's portfolio in immunology and rare diseases.
- Market Potential of Drugs: Apellis currently has two FDA-approved treatments on the U.S. market, Syfovre for age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and Empaveli for rare blood diseases, making these successful drugs the primary drivers behind the acquisition.
- Market Reaction Analysis: Despite the acquisition news, Biogen's stock price fell over 2% during the trading session, indicating that investors are cautious about the prospects of the deal, possibly concerned about balancing the high cost of acquisition with future returns.
- Strategic Transformation Context: This acquisition signifies Biogen's shift from its previous focus on the multiple sclerosis market to emerging therapeutic areas such as Alzheimer's and postpartum depression, demonstrating the company's strong commitment to future growth.
See More
Investor Rights Law Firm Investigates Multiple Companies for Potential Violations
- Legal Investigation Launched: Halper Sadeh LLC is investigating Apellis Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (NASDAQ: APLS) regarding its sale to Biogen Inc. for $41.00 per share in cash and two contingent value rights of $2.00 each, potentially impacting shareholder rights.
- Shareholder Rights Protection: The firm encourages Centessa Pharmaceuticals plc (NASDAQ: CNTA) shareholders to consider the implications of its sale to Eli Lilly for $38.00 per share in cash plus a contingent value right of up to $9.00, ensuring the protection of shareholder interests.
- Asset Sale Impact: Allbirds, Inc. (NASDAQ: BIRD) sold its intellectual property and other assets for $39 million, and Halper Sadeh LLC may seek increased compensation and disclosures for shareholders to safeguard their interests.
- Transaction Transparency Issues: Warner Bros. Discovery, Inc. (NASDAQ: WBD) is selling to Paramount Skydance Corporation for $31.00 per share in cash, with Halper Sadeh LLC potentially seeking greater transparency and protection for shareholder rights.
See More
US Stocks Surge on Hopes for End to Iran War
- Market Rally: The S&P 500 index rose by 2.91%, the Dow Jones Industrial Average by 2.49%, and the Nasdaq 100 by 3.43%, reflecting market optimism regarding the potential end of the Iran war, which could lower energy prices and ease inflation concerns.
- Consumer Confidence Boost: The US March consumer confidence index unexpectedly increased by 0.8 to 91.8, surpassing the anticipated decline to 87.9, indicating a strengthening consumer outlook that may drive spending and economic growth.
- Strength in China: China's March manufacturing PMI rose to 50.4, better than the expected 50.1, signaling signs of economic recovery that could positively impact global growth prospects and further support US stock performance.
- Falling Bond Yields: The 10-year Treasury note yield dropped to 4.28%, a one-week low, reflecting reduced inflation worries, which may provide support for the stock market and enhance investor interest in equities.
See More
Biogen Acquires Apellis to Strengthen Immunology Position
- Acquisition Details: Biogen has agreed to acquire Apellis for $41 per share in cash, valuing the deal at approximately $5.6 billion, which is expected to enhance Biogen's market position in immunology and rare diseases while providing immediate revenue.
- Expanded Drug Portfolio: The acquisition adds two commercial medicines, EMPAVELI and SYFOVRE, to Biogen's portfolio, with projected combined net sales of $689 million by 2025 and a mid-to-high teens growth rate through at least 2028, significantly improving the company's long-term growth outlook.
- Significant Clinical Outcomes: EMPAVELI is the only FDA-approved treatment for C3G, demonstrating a 68% reduction in proteinuria in the VALIANT study, while SYFOVRE has shown substantial reductions in GA lesion growth in the OAKS and DERBY studies, further solidifying Biogen's expansion in nephrology.
- Future Outlook and Employee Integration: Biogen expects to integrate a significant portion of Apellis employees post-transaction, with plans to close the deal in Q2 2026, further enhancing the company's capabilities in treating kidney diseases with the anticipated launch of Felzartamab.
See More
Investor Rights Law Firm Investigates Multiple Companies
- Legal Investigation: Halper Sadeh LLC is investigating Apellis Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (NASDAQ: APLS) regarding its sale to Biogen Inc. for $41.00 per share in cash and two contingent value rights of $2.00 each, which may impact shareholder rights.
- Shareholder Rights Protection: The firm is also examining Centessa Pharmaceuticals plc (NASDAQ: CNTA) and its sale to Eli Lilly for $38.00 per share in cash plus a contingent value right of up to $9.00, aiming to ensure fair compensation for shareholders.
- Merger Transaction Review: Equitable Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: EQH) is merging with Corebridge Financial, Inc., allowing Equitable shareholders to own approximately 49% of the combined company, with Halper Sadeh LLC potentially seeking increased consideration.
- Shareholder Rights Advocacy: The merger of VYNE Therapeutics Inc. (NASDAQ: VYNE) with Yarrow Bioscience, Inc. is expected to leave VYNE shareholders with only about 3% of the combined company, prompting Halper Sadeh LLC to advocate for enhanced shareholder rights.
See More
Biogen's $5.6 Billion Acquisition of Apellis Pharmaceuticals Fails to Boost Stock Price
- Acquisition Overview: Biogen announced its agreement to acquire Apellis Pharmaceuticals for $41 per share in cash, totaling approximately $5.6 billion; however, despite a nearly 3% rise in the broader market, Biogen's stock fell over 2%, indicating investor skepticism about the deal.
- Drug Portfolio Insight: Apellis has two FDA-approved treatments, including Syfovre for age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and Empaveli for rare diseases, and Biogen's acquisition aims to enhance its portfolio in immunology and rare diseases, which are critical growth areas.
- Market Reaction Analysis: Although Biogen's CEO stated that the acquisition would bolster the company's growth potential, investor sentiment appears cautious, leading to a decline in stock price even as the market rallied, reflecting doubts about the deal's immediate value.
- Strategic Transformation: Biogen is transitioning from its previous focus on multiple sclerosis to emerging therapeutic areas like Alzheimer's and postpartum depression, and this acquisition underscores its commitment to future growth, despite the negative short-term market reaction.
See More
Biogen to Acquire Apellis Pharmaceuticals for $5.6 Billion
- Acquisition Overview: Biogen has announced its agreement to acquire Apellis Pharmaceuticals for $41 per share in cash, totaling approximately $5.6 billion, which will enhance Biogen's portfolio in immunology and rare diseases.
- Market Potential of Drugs: Apellis currently has two FDA-approved treatments on the U.S. market, Syfovre for age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and Empaveli for rare blood diseases, making these successful drugs the primary drivers behind the acquisition.
- Market Reaction Analysis: Despite the acquisition news, Biogen's stock price fell over 2% during the trading session, indicating that investors are cautious about the prospects of the deal, possibly concerned about balancing the high cost of acquisition with future returns.
- Strategic Transformation Context: This acquisition signifies Biogen's shift from its previous focus on the multiple sclerosis market to emerging therapeutic areas such as Alzheimer's and postpartum depression, demonstrating the company's strong commitment to future growth.
See More
Investor Rights Law Firm Investigates Multiple Companies for Potential Violations
- Legal Investigation Launched: Halper Sadeh LLC is investigating Apellis Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (NASDAQ: APLS) regarding its sale to Biogen Inc. for $41.00 per share in cash and two contingent value rights of $2.00 each, potentially impacting shareholder rights.
- Shareholder Rights Protection: The firm encourages Centessa Pharmaceuticals plc (NASDAQ: CNTA) shareholders to consider the implications of its sale to Eli Lilly for $38.00 per share in cash plus a contingent value right of up to $9.00, ensuring the protection of shareholder interests.
- Asset Sale Impact: Allbirds, Inc. (NASDAQ: BIRD) sold its intellectual property and other assets for $39 million, and Halper Sadeh LLC may seek increased compensation and disclosures for shareholders to safeguard their interests.
- Transaction Transparency Issues: Warner Bros. Discovery, Inc. (NASDAQ: WBD) is selling to Paramount Skydance Corporation for $31.00 per share in cash, with Halper Sadeh LLC potentially seeking greater transparency and protection for shareholder rights.
See More
US Stocks Surge on Hopes for End to Iran War
- Market Rally: The S&P 500 index rose by 2.91%, the Dow Jones Industrial Average by 2.49%, and the Nasdaq 100 by 3.43%, reflecting market optimism regarding the potential end of the Iran war, which could lower energy prices and ease inflation concerns.
- Consumer Confidence Boost: The US March consumer confidence index unexpectedly increased by 0.8 to 91.8, surpassing the anticipated decline to 87.9, indicating a strengthening consumer outlook that may drive spending and economic growth.
- Strength in China: China's March manufacturing PMI rose to 50.4, better than the expected 50.1, signaling signs of economic recovery that could positively impact global growth prospects and further support US stock performance.
- Falling Bond Yields: The 10-year Treasury note yield dropped to 4.28%, a one-week low, reflecting reduced inflation worries, which may provide support for the stock market and enhance investor interest in equities.
See More
