The Top Biotech Stocks of 2021: Investing in Cutting-Edge Innovations

David Johnston CFO

July 26, 2023

The biotechnology sector has long been known for its ability to revolutionize industries and improve human lives through groundbreaking innovations. In 2021, the biotech industry showcased remarkable growth and resilience, driven by the pandemic’s challenges and an insatiable demand for healthcare advancements. This article delves into the best biotech stocks of 2021, highlighting companies that not only weathered the storm but also thrived, redefining the future of medicine and enticing investors with their transformative potential.

1. Moderna Inc. (MRNA)

Leading the charge in the COVID-19 vaccine development race, Moderna proved itself as a biotech powerhouse. The company’s groundbreaking mRNA technology allowed it to swiftly develop a vaccine against the novel coronavirus. which received emergency use authorization and played a pivotal role in combating the pandemic. Moderna’s stock surged throughout 2021. Its success with the COVID-19 vaccine showcased the potential of mRNA technology for other infectious diseases and even cancer treatments. Investors recognized the company’s potential to revolutionize healthcare beyond the pandemic. Making Moderna a top pick for many biotech portfolios in 2021.

2. Pfizer Inc. (PFE)

Pfizer, a veteran in the pharmaceutical industry, teamed up with German biotech firm BioNTech to develop another mRNA-based COVID-19 vaccine. The jointly developed vaccine received widespread global adoption and played a crucial role in vaccination campaigns. Beyond the COVID-19 vaccine, Pfizer’s diverse pipeline of innovative treatments in oncology, rare diseases, and immunology bolstered investor confidence throughout the year. The success of their COVID-19 vaccine. Potential in other therapeutic areas solidified Pfizer’s position as one of the best biotech stocks of 2021.

3. Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc. (REGN)

Regeneron Pharmaceuticals demonstrated its prowess in monoclonal antibody therapies, gaining significant traction in 2021. The company’s REGEN-COV antibody cocktail, used to treat mild to moderate COVID-19 cases, received Emergency Use Authorization and played a vital role in reducing hospitalizations. Additionally, Regeneron’s pipeline encompassed promising treatments for various diseases, including oncology, eye disorders, and autoimmune conditions. This diversification and continued success in developing groundbreaking therapies placed Regeneron among the top-performing biotech stocks of 2021.

4. Vertex Pharmaceuticals Inc. (VRTX)

Vertex Pharmaceuticals had a stellar year in 2021, mainly due to its pioneering treatments for cystic fibrosis (CF). The company’s CFTR modulator drugs, including Symdeko, Kalydeco, and Trikafta, have transformed the lives of patients by targeting the underlying cause of the disease. The FDA’s approval of Trikafta for patients as young as six years old further expanded the market potential for Vertex’s CF treatments. This success, combined with its strong financial performance, made Vertex one of the top biotech stocks to watch in 2021.

5. Illumina Inc. (ILMN)

Illumina has been a trailblazer in the field of genomic sequencing, enabling groundbreaking research and personalized medicine. The company’s technology has driven significant progress in understanding diseases and developing targeted therapies. In 2021, Illumina’s stock performed exceptionally well, buoyed by the growing demand for genomic sequencing solutions and their application in clinical diagnostics. As precision medicine becomes a central focus in healthcare. Illumina’s innovative contributions to the field have positioned it as one of the best biotech stocks of the year.

The year 2021 proved to be a remarkable one for the biotech industry. Companies rising to meet global challenges head-on and pushing the boundaries of medical innovation. Moderna’s groundbreaking mRNA technology set the stage for future advancements in vaccine development, while Pfizer’s collaboration with BioNTech demonstrated the power of partnerships in combating global health threats. Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Vertex Pharmaceuticals, and Illumina showcased the immense potential of targeted therapies, gene editing, and genomic sequencing in transforming patient outcomes.

As investors and medical professionals continue to recognize the crucial role of biotech companies in shaping the future of healthcare, these top-performing biotech stocks of 2021 have left an indelible mark on the industry, serving as an inspiration for the next generation of cutting-edge innovations. While past performance does not guarantee future success, the transformative potential of these biotech stocks makes them compelling options for investors seeking exposure to the dynamic and high-growth world of biotechnology.