Biotechs buck market slump; CMG Pharma among top gainers[K-Bio Pulse]

This article was released as Pharm Edaily Premium Content on April 17, 2025, at 7:28 AM.

[Yu Jin-hee, Edaily Reporter] SEOUL, South Korea-CMG Pharma, SG Healthcare, and Synergy Innovation posted nearly limit-up gains on April 16, highlighting resilience in Korea’s biotech sector despite broader market weakness.

CMG Pharma’s Recent Stock Price Flow. [Source=KG Zeroin’s MP Doctor]

According to data provider KG Zeroin MP DORTOR, these three companies ranked among the top 10 market gainers, surging nearly 30%. CMG Pharma rose 29.95% to 2,690 won, SG Healthcare jumped 29.84% to 3,720 won, and Synergy Innovation soared 29.94% to 4,015 won.

CMG Pharma, a subsidiary of CHA Biotech, drew the most attention after securing U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval for Mezofy, its oral film formulation for schizophrenia treatment. Mezofy, containing aripiprazole, marks the first FDA-approved reformulated oral film developed by a Korean pharmaceutical firm.

Unlike traditional generic drugs, Mezofy offers a significant improvement in patient compliance, dissolving quickly in the mouth without water, crucial for patients who may resist or discontinue traditional medications. As a reformulated drug, Mezofy commands higher pricing than generics and can be marketed under a distinct brand name, creating substantial barriers for competitors.

CMG Pharma targets annual U.S. sales exceeding 100 billion won within five years of launch, expected by early 2026. The company plans to select a U.S. distribution partner in the second half of this year. According to Datamonitor, the U.S. schizophrenia drug market is worth approximately 12 trillion won, expanding to over 22 trillion won with additional indications like bipolar disorder and autism spectrum disorders.

“Our accumulated expertise and close global partnerships allowed us to achieve this significant milestone of FDA approval,” said Juhyung Lee, CEO of CMG Pharma. “We aim to prove Mezofy’s competitiveness in the U.S. before expanding globally.”

SG Healthcare’s Recent Stock Price Flow. [Source=KG Zeroin’s MP Doctor]

SG Healthcare’s stock spiked amid rising investor expectations linked to policy initiatives advocating the legalization of telemedicine. Democratic Party lawmaker Kwon Chil-seung recently proposed remote healthcare services as a core party agenda, emphasizing the necessity of leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance healthcare accessibility.

Founded in 2009, SG Healthcare specializes in diagnostic imaging devices, including digital X-rays, CT scanners, and MRI equipment. The company has a robust global footprint, distributing its products through 126 channels in 77 countries. SG Healthcare reported annual revenues of 16.1 billion won in 2024.

SG Healthcare’s future growth potential is anchored in AI-powered imaging software solutions such as IAI and ARIA. IAI significantly reduces scan times while maintaining image quality, enhancing patient convenience and hospital efficiency. ARIA minimizes patient radiation exposure. SG Healthcare plans further growth with new products such as dental Cone Beam CT scanners this year.

Synergy Innovation, a microbial culture media manufacturer, also surged nearly 30%, achieving a 52-week high after five consecutive trading days of gains. With unique culture media technologies, Synergy expects revenues exceeding 100 billion won this year. In 2024, the company posted consolidated revenues of 90.6 billion won and an operating profit of 16.1 billion won, up 8.9% and 7.5% year-on-year, respectively.

An industry expert noted, “Amid market volatility, investors prefer biotech firms showing tangible growth. However, given current market uncertainty, investors must assess whether these companies offer sustainable long-term value.”

유진희 (sadend@edaily.co.kr)