UCB tops STOXX after guidance upgrade on better drug sales

UCB SA

Today 08:22

** Shares in UCB UCB.BR soar about 14% after it upgraded FY outlook on strong US demand for its blockbuster drug Bimzelx
** UCB now expects adjusted EBITDA growth in the low- to mid-forties at constant exchange rates and revenue growth in the low twenties
** Psoriasis drug Bimzelx's sales accelerated on strong demand in the US, with faster patient conversion and higher retention rates
** Jefferies sees this upgrade as reflecting improved and potentially sustainable channel management for both Bimzelx and off-patent Cimzia, an anti-inflammatory drug, alongside stronger US demand and favourable pricing dynamics
** The shares are on track for their best day in 13 months if gains hold
** They sit on top of the pan-European STOXX 600 .STOXX index
     

(Reporting by Lucie Barbier in Gdansk)
((lucie.barbier@thomsonreuters.com))