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Equitymaster explains the importance of Para IV filings for Indian pharma companies and which are the ones that are likely to benefit from possible outcomes.
Domestic pharma company, Lupin, announced dismal results in 2QFY05. While the topline has declined by 8.5%, the operating profit has declined at a faster rate of 60% YoY. The net profit however, has increased by about 20 times, which does not show the true picture, as this rise in profit is on back of some extraordinary expenses last year.
Indian pharma stocks (especially mid and small sized ones) have come to the fore off late and they have been attracting a lot of investor attention. So what has driven these stocks up on the bourses? Before we dwell upon this aspect let us first review in brief the status of the Indian pharmaceutical industry.
Ranbaxy stock has been battered (down 9%) in the last couple of days. Besides, the general market pessimism what could be adding to the selling is the recent results declared by Lupin Labs. Ranbaxy currently is the sole generic marketer of Cefuroxime Axetil in the US markets. On the other hand, Lupin Labs has a contract to supply bulk required for Cefuroxime formulations to Apotex, who is the next competitor of Ranbaxy.
Lupin Ltd. has ended FY02 with 6% growth in sales and an encouraging 48% jump in PBT. Net profit however, grew by 20% on account of new accounting policy on deferred taxation. The growth in sales was fuelled by higher export growth. Operating margins jumped by more than 310 basis points. During the year, the company initiated several measures to achieve roboust growth in exports and push R&D as a key area of growth, going forward.
Lupin Ltd. seems to be undergoing a drastic change in its business model. While retaining its focus on the anti-TB segment, the company seems to be making all efforts to become a recognised global player in the Cephalosporin segment and is now considering research as a new thrust area. Strategy for entering the generics business also seems to be in place. The company's business is being restructured to exit competitive segments and enter high margin segments.
Last year, Lupin Chemicals and Lupin Laboratories merged to create a giant entity, Lupin Ltd., with sales turnover in excess of Rs 9 bn. The merger has helped the company in consolidating its leadership position in the anti –TB market. Further, the company is taking strides to become a recognized global player in the Cephalosporin (new generation anti-infectives) and is now considering research as a new thrust area.