Bernstein Names Vertex (VRTX) a "Top Biotech Pick" for 2026 Following Upgrade to Outperform

Vertex Pharmaceuticals Incorporated (NASDAQ:VRTX) is one of the best future stocks to buy for the long term. On January 12, Bernstein analyst William Pickering upgraded Vertex Pharmaceuticals to Outperform from Market Perform. As this sentiment was announced, Bernstein also officially named Vertex a top biotech pick for 2026.

Pickering noted that the biotech sector entered 2026 following an impressive comeback after a three-year downturn. This recovery was highlighted by a 36% gain in 2025, which the firm attributed to a combination of lower interest rates, increased acquisition activity, and a reduction in perceived policy risks.

Additionally, on January 6, UBS analyst Michael Yee assumed coverage of Vertex Pharmaceuticals with a Buy rating and a price target of $535, which was adjusted down from $546. Yee viewed the then-current risk/reward profile as attractive and noted that a stock pullback in 2025 has positioned the company well ahead of numerous data readouts scheduled for 2026-2027. A key factor in this positive outlook is the strength of Vertex’s core cystic fibrosis franchise.

Vertex Pharmaceuticals Incorporated (NASDAQ:VRTX) is a biotechnology company that develops and commercializes therapies for treating cystic fibrosis.

While we acknowledge the potential of VRTX as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If you’re looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock.

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Disclosure: None. This article is originally published at Insider Monkey.