Where is Novartis AG (NVS) Headed?

Novartis AG (NYSE:NVS) is one of the best immunotherapy stocks to buy according to hedge funds. Novartis AG (NYSE:NVS) announced on February 13  final results from the Phase III ALIGN study, stating that Vanrafia (atrasentan) showed a positive difference in eGFR change from baseline vs. placebo at Week 136 in the ALIGN study, 4 weeks after study treatment ended, with results favoring Vanrafia across multiple timepoints, measures of kidney function, and in patients additionally receiving SGLT2 inhibitors. Management reported that clinically meaningful results were observed compared to placebo in eGFR change from baseline at the end of study treatment at Week 132, and in the prespecified exploratory group of patients additionally receiving sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 inhibitors.

Vanrafia attained accelerated approval in the U.S. and China for the reduction of proteinuria in adults with IgAN in 2025, and Novartis AG (NYSE:NVS) has plans to submit for traditional approval in 2026. The company added that ALIGN offers the longest follow-up period in pivotal Phase III studies for IgAN3, and that safety was consistent with previous findings. In addition to Vanrafia, Novartis AG (NYSE:NVS) is continually advancing its multi-asset IgAN portfolio, including Fabhalta and investigational compound zigakibart.

In a separate development, JPMorgan lifted the price target on Novartis AG (NYSE:NVS) to CHF 135 from CHF 125 on February 12, maintaining an Overweight rating on the shares.

Headquartered in Basel, Switzerland, Novartis AG (NYSE:NVS) develops, markets, and manufactures a range of healthcare and pharmaceutical products, and is also involved in immuno-oncology research. Its operations span the Innovative Medicines, Sandoz, and Corporate segments.

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