Analysts have expressed mixed ratings for CRISPR Therapeutics, with some being optimistic about the company's potential while others advise caution. Despite short-term challenges, the significant institutional investment in the company suggests a belief in its long-term growth potential.
Larson Financial Group LLC has significantly increased its investment in CRISPR Therapeutics, raising its stake by 95.5% during the second quarter. Itau Unibanco Holding S.A. also entered a new position in the company during the same quarter. Other notable investors include Wilmington Savings Fund Society FSB, Darwin Wealth Management LLC, and Denver PWM LLC. Collectively, institutional investors and hedge funds now own 69.20% of CRISPR Therapeutics' stock.
CRISPR Therapeutics is a leader in gene-editing technology, focusing on developing gene-based medicines for serious diseases through its CRISPR/Cas9 platform. The company has a diverse portfolio of therapeutic programs targeting various disease areas. The interest from institutional investors reflects growing confidence in its potential for future growth.
Recently, CRISPR Therapeutics' stock hit a new 52-week low, raising questions about its performance in the current market environment. Analysts have varying perspectives on the stock's future, with Needham & Company LLC maintaining a "buy" rating, Royal Bank of Canada issuing a "sector perform" rating, and StockNews.com downgrading the stock to a "sell" rating. The consensus among analysts leans towards a "Hold" rating, with a collective average price target of $77.93.
CRISPR Therapeutics reported a loss per share that surpassed the consensus estimate, but generated lower revenue than expected. This performance has raised concerns about its financial health and operational efficiency.
Insider trading activity has also been notable at CRISPR Therapeutics, with General Counsel James R. Kasinger and CEO Samarth Kulkarni selling shares. Despite these sales, insiders still hold 4.10% of the company's stock.
As CRISPR Therapeutics faces challenges in the market, its future outlook remains uncertain. The company's innovative gene-editing technology positions it well within the biotechnology sector, but recent financial results and stock performance have raised concerns among investors.