1. SK bioscience H1 2025: A Disappointing Performance

SK bioscience reported KRW 161.8 billion in revenue, an operating loss of KRW 37.3 billion, and a net loss of KRW 16.7 billion for the first half of 2025. While revenue grew year-over-year, both operating and net income remained in the red, significantly missing market forecasts.

2. Why the Underperformance?

  • Overreliance on CDMO: The CDMO business accounted for 78.9% of total revenue, while sales of its own vaccine products declined.
  • Increased R&D Expenses: Despite growth in CDMO, increasing SG&A expenses, particularly R&D, widened the operating loss.
  • Concerns over New Pipeline Development: A declining R&D/sales ratio raises concerns about the company’s ability to develop new pipelines.
  • Macroeconomic Uncertainty: High interest rates, unfavorable exchange rates, and rising raw material prices contribute to profitability challenges.

3. Future Outlook: What Lies Ahead?

Market analysts hold a negative outlook for SK bioscience’s stock in the short term. Concerns regarding the company’s overreliance on CDMO and its struggling vaccine business are expected to persist. The recovery of the global vaccine market and the successful commercialization of new vaccine pipelines will be crucial for the company’s fundamental improvement.

4. Investor Action Plan: What Should You Do?

Investors should closely monitor SK bioscience’s cost management capabilities, the progress of its new pipelines, and the improvement in profitability of its CDMO business. A long-term perspective focused on fundamental changes is crucial, rather than being swayed by short-term stock price fluctuations. Analyzing global vaccine market trends and competitor activities is essential for developing an effective investment strategy.