CSL Limited Strengthens Global Leadership with Key Advancements in Pandemic Preparedness, Vaccine Innovation, and Financial Growth in H1 2024

From January to June 2024, CSL Limited reinforced its position as a global leader in biopharmaceuticals, making significant strides across its various divisions. The company’s activities during this period reflected its unwavering commitment to public health, groundbreaking innovation, and robust financial performance.

Pandemic Preparedness and Vaccine Development
CSL Seqirus took a leading role in pandemic preparedness by securing an agreement with the European Commission to supply pre-pandemic influenza vaccines to EU and EEA Member States. This agreement includes an initial 665,000 doses targeting the H5N1 strain, with an option for up to 40 million additional doses. This strategic move highlights CSL Seqirus' proactive approach to bolstering global health security, particularly in the face of potential avian influenza outbreaks in Europe and the U.S.

In collaboration with Arcturus Therapeutics, CSL made notable progress in COVID-19 vaccine development. Their self-amplifying mRNA vaccine, ARCT-154, received approval in Japan, demonstrating 100% protection against severe COVID-19 in healthy adults and over 90% in at-risk populations. The vaccine’s longer duration of immunity compared to traditional mRNA boosters represents a significant advancement in the ongoing battle against COVID-19.

Strategic Partnerships and New Therapeutic Approvals
CSL Seqirus continued to expand its global reach by partnering with ARS Pharmaceuticals to commercialize neffy™, an adrenaline nasal spray for anaphylaxis, in Australia and New Zealand. This partnership enhances CSL's portfolio of critical care treatments, addressing a vital need for faster, more accessible emergency interventions.

CSL Vifor, in collaboration with Travere Therapeutics, achieved a major milestone with the European Commission’s approval of FILSPARI®, a non-immunosuppressive therapy for IgA Nephropathy. This marks a significant advancement in kidney disease treatment, offering a new option for patients with this rare and serious condition.

Innovation and Support for Biotech Ventures
CSL continued to foster innovation through its support of the Jumar Bioincubator, launched in Melbourne. This incubator is set to become a hub for biotech innovation, hosting early-stage ventures working on next-generation technologies, including therapeutic vaccines and lab-on-a-chip wearables. CSL's involvement underscores its commitment to nurturing the future of biotech by providing resources and support for groundbreaking research.

Financial Performance and Gene Therapy Milestones
CSL reported impressive financial results for the first half of FY24, with revenue climbing to $8.05 billion, an 11% increase at constant currency. The company’s net profit after tax (NPAT) rose by 17% to $1.90 billion, driven by strong sales of immunoglobulin products and solid performance across its divisions. Maintaining its FY24 NPATA guidance of $2.9 to $3.0 billion, CSL demonstrated its robust financial health and continued focus on sustainable growth.

In the field of gene therapy, CSL achieved a significant milestone with Swissmedic authorizing HEMGENIX® for hemophilia B, the first gene therapy of its kind approved in Switzerland. This approval followed similar endorsements in the U.S., Canada, and Europe, reinforcing CSL’s leadership in advancing innovative therapies for rare diseases. Additionally, CSL introduced new product formats, such as larger vials for ZEMAIRA®, providing enhanced treatment options for patients with Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency.

Commitment to Patient-Centered Care and Safety
CSL Plasma reported a serious adverse event during this period, underscoring the company's commitment to safety and transparency. The company promptly addressed the issue, reflecting its focus on maintaining the highest standards of patient care.

Moreover, a survey revealed that most patients with chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP) preferred more convenient, at-home treatment options. In response, CSL Behring expanded its offering of flexible administration methods, including the Hizentra® prefilled syringe, to better meet patient needs and improve their quality of life.

The first half of 2024 was marked by significant achievements for CSL Limited, as the company continued to lead in public health preparedness, vaccine innovation, and biotech support. With strong financial results and an expanding portfolio of therapeutic offerings, CSL is well-positioned to sustain its leadership in the biopharmaceutical industry while remaining steadfast in its commitment to patient-centered care and innovation.