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Investors with an interest in Medical - Biomedical and Genetics stocks have likely encountered both Exelixis (EXEL - Free Report) and Illumina (ILMN - Free Report) . But which of these two stocks is more attractive to value investors? We'll need to take a closer look to find out.

There are plenty of strategies for discovering value stocks, but we have found that pairing a strong Zacks Rank with an impressive grade in the Value category of our Style Scores system produces the best returns. The proven Zacks Rank puts an emphasis on earnings estimates and estimate revisions, while our Style Scores work to identify stocks with specific traits.

Currently, both Exelixis and Illumina are holding a Zacks Rank of #2 (Buy). Investors should feel comfortable knowing that both of these stocks have an improving earnings outlook since the Zacks Rank favors companies that have witnessed positive analyst estimate revisions. But this is just one piece of the puzzle for value investors.

Value investors also tend to look at a number of traditional, tried-and-true figures to help them find stocks that they believe are undervalued at their current share price levels.

Our Value category highlights undervalued companies by looking at a variety of key metrics, including the popular P/E ratio, as well as the P/S ratio, earnings yield, cash flow per share, and a variety of other fundamentals that have been used by value investors for years.

EXEL currently has a forward P/E ratio of 15.74, while ILMN has a forward P/E of 37.74. We also note that EXEL has a PEG ratio of 1.43. This figure is similar to the commonly-used P/E ratio, with the PEG ratio also factoring in a company's expected earnings growth rate. ILMN currently has a PEG ratio of 2.91.

Another notable valuation metric for EXEL is its P/B ratio of 7.23. Investors use the P/B ratio to look at a stock's market value versus its book value, which is defined as total assets minus total liabilities. By comparison, ILMN has a P/B of 11.13.

Based on these metrics and many more, EXEL holds a Value grade of B, while ILMN has a Value grade of C.

Both EXEL and ILMN are impressive stocks with solid earnings outlooks, but based on these valuation figures, we feel that EXEL is the superior value option right now.

Posted by Defense World Staff on Jul 22nd, 2026

Bank of New York Mellon Corp lowered its holdings in shares of Exelixis, Inc. (NASDAQ:EXEL – Free Report) by 2.8% in the 1st quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 1,986,035 shares of the biotechnology company’s stock after selling 57,995 shares during the quarter. Bank of New York Mellon Corp owned approximately 0.78% of Exelixis worth $85,181,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Several other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the business. Wealth Enhancement Advisory Services LLC lifted its stake in Exelixis by 62.5% in the 4th quarter. Wealth Enhancement Advisory Services LLC now owns 187,154 shares of the biotechnology company’s stock worth $8,224,000 after purchasing an additional 71,987 shares in the last quarter. Stephens Investment Management Group LLC increased its holdings in shares of Exelixis by 1.1% in the fourth quarter. Stephens Investment Management Group LLC now owns 2,539,421 shares of the biotechnology company’s stock worth $111,303,000 after purchasing an additional 28,265 shares during the last quarter. Nisa Investment Advisors LLC lifted its position in shares of Exelixis by 692.3% in the fourth quarter. Nisa Investment Advisors LLC now owns 140,446 shares of the biotechnology company’s stock worth $6,156,000 after buying an additional 122,720 shares in the last quarter. SG Americas Securities LLC lifted its position in shares of Exelixis by 72.1% in the fourth quarter. SG Americas Securities LLC now owns 36,288 shares of the biotechnology company’s stock worth $1,591,000 after buying an additional 15,203 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Allspring Global Investments Holdings LLC lifted its position in Exelixis by 18.5% during the fourth quarter. Allspring Global Investments Holdings LLC now owns 1,383,820 shares of the biotechnology company’s stock valued at $60,307,000 after purchasing an additional 216,048 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors own 85.27% of the company’s stock.

Insider Buying and Selling In other news, Director Maria C. Freire sold 20,634 shares of the company’s stock in a transaction on Thursday, May 7th. The stock was sold at an average price of $46.00, for a total transaction of $949,164.00. Following the transaction, the director directly owned 100,819 shares of the company’s stock, valued at approximately $4,637,674. This represents a 16.99% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is accessible through this hyperlink. Also, EVP Patrick J. Haley sold 32,110 shares of the stock in a transaction on Wednesday, May 20th. The shares were sold at an average price of $49.81, for a total value of $1,599,399.10. Following the sale, the executive vice president owned 357,638 shares of the company’s stock, valued at approximately $17,813,948.78. This represents a 8.24% decrease in their position. The disclosure for this sale is available in the SEC filing. Insiders have sold 219,170 shares of company stock valued at $10,620,641 over the last three months. Corporate insiders own 2.60% of the company’s stock.

Exelixis Stock Performance NASDAQ EXEL opened at $56.12 on Wednesday. Exelixis, Inc. has a one year low of $33.76 and a one year high of $57.57. The company has a market capitalization of $14.11 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 18.64, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.60 and a beta of 0.42. The company’s 50-day simple moving average is $52.89 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $46.97.

Exelixis (NASDAQ:EXEL – Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, May 5th. The biotechnology company reported $0.87 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts’ consensus estimates of $0.75 by $0.12. The firm had revenue of $610.81 million for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $607.51 million. Exelixis had a net margin of 35.08% and a return on equity of 39.89%. The company’s quarterly revenue was up 10.0% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period last year, the firm earned $0.55 earnings per share. Equities analysts expect that Exelixis, Inc. will post 3.16 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Analyst Ratings Changes Several equities research analysts have recently issued reports on EXEL shares. Stifel Nicolaus raised their target price on shares of Exelixis from $44.00 to $47.00 and gave the stock a “hold” rating in a report on Wednesday, May 6th. UBS Group reaffirmed a “buy” rating on shares of Exelixis in a research note on Thursday, July 2nd. Truist Financial boosted their price target on Exelixis from $54.00 to $56.00 and gave the company a “hold” rating in a report on Tuesday, July 7th. Weiss Ratings raised Exelixis from a “buy (b)” rating to a “buy (b+)” rating in a research note on Wednesday, July 8th. Finally, Barclays raised their price objective on Exelixis from $45.00 to $49.00 and gave the stock an “equal weight” rating in a report on Tuesday, July 14th. Nine equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, nine have given a Hold rating and two have given a Sell rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company presently has an average rating of “Hold” and a consensus target price of $48.80.

Get Our Latest Stock Report on Exelixis

Exelixis Profile (Free Report)

Exelixis, Inc is a biotechnology company specializing in the discovery, development and commercialization of small molecule therapies primarily for the treatment of cancer. Building on a platform that leverages model organism genetics and high-throughput screening, the company focuses its research on kinase inhibitors that modulate critical signaling pathways involved in tumor growth and metastasis. Exelixis’s translational research approach aims to advance novel compounds from early-stage discovery through clinical development and regulatory approval.

The company’s most recognized products include CABOMETYX® (cabozantinib), approved for the treatment of advanced renal cell carcinoma and hepatocellular carcinoma, and COMETRIQ® (cabozantinib) for metastatic medullary thyroid cancer.

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Posted by Defense World Staff on Jul 18th, 2026

Allspring Global Investments Holdings LLC grew its holdings in Exelixis, Inc. (NASDAQ:EXEL – Free Report) by 23.4% in the 1st quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 1,707,715 shares of the biotechnology company’s stock after acquiring an additional 323,895 shares during the period. Allspring Global Investments Holdings LLC owned 0.67% of Exelixis worth $75,208,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Several other hedge funds also recently modified their holdings of EXEL. Wealth Enhancement Advisory Services LLC raised its stake in shares of Exelixis by 62.5% in the 4th quarter. Wealth Enhancement Advisory Services LLC now owns 187,154 shares of the biotechnology company’s stock valued at $8,224,000 after acquiring an additional 71,987 shares in the last quarter. Stephens Investment Management Group LLC boosted its position in Exelixis by 1.1% during the fourth quarter. Stephens Investment Management Group LLC now owns 2,539,421 shares of the biotechnology company’s stock worth $111,303,000 after purchasing an additional 28,265 shares during the period. Private Client Services LLC acquired a new position in Exelixis during the fourth quarter valued at approximately $1,992,000. Nisa Investment Advisors LLC grew its holdings in Exelixis by 692.3% during the fourth quarter. Nisa Investment Advisors LLC now owns 140,446 shares of the biotechnology company’s stock valued at $6,156,000 after purchasing an additional 122,720 shares during the last quarter. Finally, SG Americas Securities LLC raised its position in shares of Exelixis by 72.1% in the fourth quarter. SG Americas Securities LLC now owns 36,288 shares of the biotechnology company’s stock valued at $1,591,000 after purchasing an additional 15,203 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 85.27% of the company’s stock.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In A number of analysts have recently weighed in on EXEL shares. Stifel Nicolaus boosted their price objective on shares of Exelixis from $44.00 to $47.00 and gave the stock a “hold” rating in a research note on Wednesday, May 6th. Citizens Jmp raised their target price on shares of Exelixis from $50.00 to $55.00 and gave the company a “market outperform” rating in a research note on Wednesday, June 24th. Morgan Stanley reiterated a “positive” rating on shares of Exelixis in a report on Monday, June 22nd. UBS Group reissued a “buy” rating on shares of Exelixis in a research report on Thursday, July 2nd. Finally, Wall Street Zen upgraded shares of Exelixis from a “buy” rating to a “strong-buy” rating in a report on Saturday, May 9th. Nine analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, nine have issued a Hold rating and two have given a Sell rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock has an average rating of “Hold” and a consensus price target of $48.80.

Get Our Latest Research Report on Exelixis

Exelixis Price Performance Shares of EXEL stock opened at $55.92 on Friday. Exelixis, Inc. has a one year low of $33.76 and a one year high of $57.57. The stock has a fifty day moving average price of $52.64 and a 200 day moving average price of $46.79. The stock has a market cap of $14.06 billion, a P/E ratio of 18.58, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.60 and a beta of 0.42.

Exelixis (NASDAQ:EXEL – Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, May 5th. The biotechnology company reported $0.87 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.75 by $0.12. Exelixis had a net margin of 35.08% and a return on equity of 39.89%. The firm had revenue of $610.81 million for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $607.51 million. During the same quarter in the previous year, the firm posted $0.55 EPS. The business’s revenue for the quarter was up 10.0% on a year-over-year basis. Equities research analysts anticipate that Exelixis, Inc. will post 3.16 EPS for the current year.

Insider Transactions at Exelixis In other Exelixis news, Director Maria C. Freire sold 20,634 shares of the firm’s stock in a transaction dated Thursday, May 7th. The shares were sold at an average price of $46.00, for a total transaction of $949,164.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the director owned 100,819 shares in the company, valued at $4,637,674. This trade represents a 16.99% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this link. Also, Director George Poste sold 60,000 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, May 7th. The stock was sold at an average price of $45.71, for a total value of $2,742,600.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the director directly owned 118,832 shares of the company’s stock, valued at approximately $5,431,810.72. The trade was a 33.55% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The disclosure for this sale is available in the SEC filing. Over the last three months, insiders have sold 219,170 shares of company stock valued at $10,620,641. Corporate insiders own 2.60% of the company’s stock.

Exelixis Company Profile (Free Report)

Exelixis, Inc is a biotechnology company specializing in the discovery, development and commercialization of small molecule therapies primarily for the treatment of cancer. Building on a platform that leverages model organism genetics and high-throughput screening, the company focuses its research on kinase inhibitors that modulate critical signaling pathways involved in tumor growth and metastasis. Exelixis’s translational research approach aims to advance novel compounds from early-stage discovery through clinical development and regulatory approval.

The company’s most recognized products include CABOMETYX® (cabozantinib), approved for the treatment of advanced renal cell carcinoma and hepatocellular carcinoma, and COMETRIQ® (cabozantinib) for metastatic medullary thyroid cancer.

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A relatively small group of companies capture much of Wall Street's attention and disproportionately affects the performance of major indexes like the S&P 500. It's not surprising, then, that many investors seeking attractive stocks naturally turn to these corporations. However, it's possible to find great stocks outside of this small circle. With that in mind, let's consider three companies many investors may not know about but should: Axsome Therapeutics (AXSM 6.07%), Madrigal Pharmaceuticals (MDGL 5.04%), and Exelixis (EXEL 0.77%). Read on to find out why these under-the-radar stocks may be worth investing in.

Image source: Getty Images.

1. Axsome Therapeutics Axsome Therapeutics is generating strong financial results, thanks in large part to Auvelity, a depression treatment. In the first quarter, the company's revenue increased by 57% year over year to $191.2 million. The great news is that Auvelity recently received a label expansion for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease (AD) agitation. With more than five million patients in the U.S. living with AD agitation and only one previously approved medicine, Axsome Therapeutics is looking at a large opportunity in this niche. And the best part is that the biotech company has several other promising candidates in the pipeline that could, eventually, contribute meaningfully to its financial results.

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Axsome Therapeutics is running phase 3 studies for AXS-14, an investigational medicine for fibromyalgia, and it plans to start other late-stage clinical trials for candidates such as AXS-20 in schizophrenia by year-end. Meanwhile, it is awaiting approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for AXS-12, a potential drug for narcolepsy. It's also worth noting that Axsome Therapeutics has two other products in its approved portfolio, including Sunosi, a narcolepsy treatment, and Symbravo, a migraine medicine approved last year.

Between the company's lineup, which is driving solid financial results and should see accelerating top-line growth thanks to relatively new approvals or label expansions, and the biotech's deep late-stage pipeline, Axsome Therapeutics' medium-term outlook seems bright. The stock has outperformed broader equities in recent years, but it is still time to buy.

2. Madrigal Pharmaceuticals Madrigal Pharmaceuticals has only one product on the market: Rezdiffra, a medicine for metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), a liver disease that affects millions of patients. Yet, Rezdiffra was the first medicine approved for it back in 2024. Since then, it has made significant commercial progress and should exceed $1 billion in annual sales this year (it was already very close to it in 2025). Yet, it is still looking at a vast opportunity.

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As of the end of 2025, there were more than 36,250 MASH patients on Rezdiffra. That's just a little over 10% of the 315,000 patients who are seeing specialists Madrigal was targeting from the start. Further, Madrigal Pharmaceuticals is developing other MASH treatments. Expanding its footprint in this vast area, where it already has a solid position, could help it generate consistently strong revenue and earnings over the next five years and beyond. Madrigal Pharmaceuticals' prospects look strong for those reasons.

3. Exelixis Exelixis has relied on its most important product, Cabometyx, to drive top-line growth for a while. The medicine, which is approved across a range of cancers -- particularly liver and kidney cancer -- is still posting strong sales. In the first quarter, Exelixis' revenue increased by 10% year over year to $610.8 million. Cabometyx should have more growth fuel through the next few years, but it will likely start facing generic competition by 2030. Thankfully, Exelixis has been preparing for that. The company is developing new products that will help it move beyond its current crown jewel.

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The most promising of them, zanzalintinib, has already posted solid phase 3 results in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer and could earn approval in that niche by the end of the year. Targeting colorectal cancer, an area with high unmet need given that it is the second-leading cause of cancer death worldwide, was a wise move by Exelixis. True to the company's strategy, it intends to earn numerous indications for zanzalintinib across different cancer types, as it did with Cabometyx.

Zanzalintinib could prove to be a pipeline-in-a-drug and a worthy successor to Cabometyx. And that's before we consider other candidates in Exelixis' pipeline. The company's ability to carve out a niche in oncology, perhaps the most competitive area in the industry, typically dominated by pharmaceutical giants, speaks volumes. And given Exelixis' strong financial results and solid pipeline, it could deliver excellent returns over the next five years.

It doesn't matter your age or experience: taking full advantage of the stock market and investing with confidence are common goals for all investors. Luckily, Zacks Premium offers several different ways to do both.

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What are the Zacks Style Scores? The Zacks Style Scores is a unique set of guidelines that rates stocks based on three popular investing types, and were developed as complementary indicators for the Zacks Rank. This combination helps investors choose securities with the highest chances of beating the market over the next 30 days.

Based on their value, growth, and momentum characteristics, each stock is assigned a rating of A, B, C, D, or F. The better the score, the better chance the stock will outperform; an A is better than a B, a B is better than a C, and so on.

The Style Scores are broken down into four categories:

Value ScoreValue investors love finding good stocks at good prices, especially before the broader market catches on to a stock's true value. Utilizing ratios like P/E, PEG, Price/Sales, Price/Cash Flow, and many other multiples, the Value Style Score identifies the most attractive and most discounted stocks.

Growth ScoreWhile good value is important, growth investors are more focused on a company's financial strength and health, and its future outlook. The Growth Style Score takes projected and historic earnings, sales, and cash flow into account to uncover stocks that will see long-term, sustainable growth.

Momentum ScoreMomentum traders and investors live by the saying "the trend is your friend." This investing style is all about taking advantage of upward or downward trends in a stock's price or earnings outlook. Employing factors like one-week price change and the monthly percentage change in earnings estimates, the Momentum Style Score can indicate favorable times to build a position in high-momentum stocks.

VGM ScoreIf you want a combination of all three Style Scores, then the VGM Score will be your friend. It rates each stock on their combined weighted styles, helping you find the companies with the most attractive value, best growth forecast, and most promising momentum. It's also one of the best indicators to use with the Zacks Rank.

How Style Scores Work with the Zacks Rank The Zacks Rank is a proprietary stock-rating model that harnesses the power of earnings estimate revisions, or changes to a company's earnings expectations, to help investors build a successful portfolio.

It's highly successful, with #1 (Strong Buy) stocks producing an unmatched +23.94% average annual return since 1988. That's more than double the S&P 500. But because of the large number of stocks we rate, there are over 200 companies with a Strong Buy rank, plus another 600 with a #2 (Buy) rank, on any given day.

But it can feel overwhelming to pick the right stocks for you and your investing goals with over 800 top-rated stocks to choose from.

That's where the Style Scores come in.

To have the best chance of big returns, you'll want to always consider stocks with a Zacks Rank #1 or #2 that also have Style Scores of A or B, which will give you the highest probability of success. If you're looking at stocks with a #3 (Hold) rank, it's important they have Scores of A or B as well to ensure as much upside potential as possible.

As mentioned above, the Scores are designed to work with the Zacks Rank, so any change to a company's earnings outlook should be a deciding factor when picking which stocks to buy.

For instance, a stock with a #4 (Sell) or #5 (Strong Sell) rating, even one that boasts Scores of A and B, still has a downward-trending earnings forecast, and a much greater likelihood its share price will decline as well.

Thus, the more stocks you own with a #1 or #2 Rank and Scores of A or B, the better.

Stock to Watch: Exelixis (EXEL - Free Report) Alameda, CA-based Exelixis, Inc. is an oncology-focused biotechnology company that primarily focuses on the discovery, development and commercialization of new drugs for the treatment of difficult-to-treat cancers. The company is leveraging its investments, expertise and strategic partnerships to target an expanding range of tumor types and indications with its clinically differentiated pipeline of small molecules, antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) and other biotherapeutics.

EXEL is a #2 (Buy) on the Zacks Rank, with a VGM Score of A.

Additionally, the company could be a top pick for growth investors. EXEL has a Growth Style Score of A, forecasting year-over-year earnings growth of 14.6% for the current fiscal year.

One analyst revised their earnings estimate upwards in the last 60 days for fiscal 2026. The Zacks Consensus Estimate has increased $0.04 to $3.53 per share. EXEL boasts an average earnings surprise of +17%.

With a solid Zacks Rank and top-tier Growth and VGM Style Scores, EXEL should be on investors' short list.

Shares of Exelixis (EXEL - Free Report) have been strong performers lately, with the stock up 7.7% over the past month. The stock hit a new 52-week high of $57.57 in the previous session. Exelixis has gained 30.2% since the start of the year compared to the 2.8% gain for the Zacks Medical sector and the 7.4% return for the Zacks Medical - Biomedical and Genetics industry.

What's Driving the Outperformance?The stock has an impressive record of positive earnings surprises, as it hasn't missed our earnings consensus estimate in any of the last four quarters. In its last earnings report on May 5, 2026, Exelixis reported EPS of $0.87 versus consensus estimate of $0.75.

For the current fiscal year, Exelixis is expected to post earnings of $3.53 per share on $2.6 in revenues. This represents a 14.61% change in EPS on a 11.96% change in revenues. For the next fiscal year, the company is expected to earn $4.07 per share on $3.05 in revenues. This represents a year-over-year change of 15.34% and 17.56%, respectively.

Valuation MetricsThough Exelixis has recently hit a 52-week high, what is next for Exelixis? A key aspect of this question is taking a look at valuation metrics in order to determine if the company is due for a pullback from this level.

On this front, we can look at the Zacks Style Scores, as they provide investors with an additional way to sort through stocks (beyond looking at the Zacks Rank of a security). The individual style scores for Value, Growth, Momentum and the combined VGM Score run from A through F. Investors should consider the style scores a valuable tool that can help you to pick the most appropriate Zacks Rank stocks based on their individual investment style.

Exelixis has a Value Score of B. The stock's Growth and Momentum Scores are A and D, respectively, giving the company a VGM Score of A.

In terms of its value breakdown, the stock currently trades at 16.2X current fiscal year EPS estimates, which is not in-line with the peer industry average of 21.7X. On a trailing cash flow basis, the stock currently trades at 18.9X versus its peer group's average of 15.1X. Additionally, the stock has a PEG ratio of 1.47. This isn't enough to put the company in the top echelon of all stocks we cover from a value perspective.

Zacks RankWe also need to look at the Zacks Rank for the stock, as this supersedes any trend on the style score front. Fortunately, Exelixis currently has a Zacks Rank of #2 (Buy) thanks to rising earnings estimates.

Since we recommend that investors select stocks carrying Zacks Rank of 1 (Strong Buy) or 2 (Buy) and Style Scores of A or B, it looks as if Exelixis passes the test. Thus, it seems as though Exelixis shares could still be poised for more gains ahead.

How Does EXEL Stack Up to the Competition?Shares of EXEL have been soaring, and the company still appears to be a decent choice, but what about the rest of the industry? One industry peer that looks good is CorMedix Inc (CRMD - Free Report) . CRMD has a Zacks Rank of #2 (Buy) and a Value Score of A, a Growth Score of A, and a Momentum Score of F.

Earnings were strong last quarter. CorMedix Inc beat our consensus estimate by 22.86%, and for the current fiscal year, CRMD is expected to post earnings of $0.51 per share on revenue of $335.4 million.

Shares of CorMedix Inc have gained 2.5% over the past month, and currently trade at a forward P/E of 17.39X and a P/CF of 4.34X.

The Medical - Biomedical and Genetics industry is in the top 45% of all the industries we have in our universe, so it looks like there are some nice tailwinds for EXEL and CRMD, even beyond their own solid fundamental situation.

ALAMEDA, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Exelixis, Inc. (Nasdaq: EXEL) today announced results from the final analysis of the dual primary endpoint of overall survival (OS) in the subset of patients without active liver metastases (non-liver metastases, NLM) in the phase 3 STELLAR-303 pivotal trial evaluating zanzalintinib in combination with atezolizumab (Tecentriq®) versus regorafenib in previously treated non-microsatellite instability (MSI)-high metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC).

Taking full advantage of the stock market and investing with confidence are common goals for new and old investors, and Zacks Premium offers many different ways to do both.

The popular research service can help you become a smarter, more self-assured investor, giving you access to daily updates of the Zacks Rank and Zacks Industry Rank, the Zacks #1 Rank List, Equity Research reports, and Premium stock screens.

Zacks Premium also includes the Zacks Style Scores.

What are the Zacks Style Scores? Developed alongside the Zacks Rank, the Zacks Style Scores are a group of complementary indicators that help investors pick stocks with the best chances of beating the market over the next 30 days.

Each stock is given an alphabetic rating of A, B, C, D or F based on their value, growth, and momentum qualities. With this system, an A is better than a B, a B is better than a C, and so on, meaning the better the score, the better chance the stock will outperform.

The Style Scores are broken down into four categories:

Value ScoreValue investors love finding good stocks at good prices, especially before the broader market catches on to a stock's true value. Utilizing ratios like P/E, PEG, Price/Sales, Price/Cash Flow, and many other multiples, the Value Style Score identifies the most attractive and most discounted stocks.

Growth ScoreGrowth investors, on the other hand, are more concerned with a company's financial strength and health, and its future outlook. The Growth Style Score examines things like projected and historic earnings, sales, and cash flow to find stocks that will experience sustainable growth over time.

Momentum ScoreMomentum traders and investors live by the saying "the trend is your friend." This investing style is all about taking advantage of upward or downward trends in a stock's price or earnings outlook. Employing factors like one-week price change and the monthly percentage change in earnings estimates, the Momentum Style Score can indicate favorable times to build a position in high-momentum stocks.

VGM ScoreIf you want a combination of all three Style Scores, then the VGM Score will be your friend. It rates each stock on their combined weighted styles, helping you find the companies with the most attractive value, best growth forecast, and most promising momentum. It's also one of the best indicators to use with the Zacks Rank.

How Style Scores Work with the Zacks Rank The Zacks Rank is a proprietary stock-rating model that harnesses the power of earnings estimate revisions, or changes to a company's earnings expectations, to help investors build a successful portfolio.

It's highly successful, with #1 (Strong Buy) stocks producing an unmatched +24% average annual return since 1988. That's more than double the S&P 500. But because of the large number of stocks we rate, there are over 200 companies with a Strong Buy rank, plus another 600 with a #2 (Buy) rank, on any given day.

But it can feel overwhelming to pick the right stocks for you and your investing goals with over 800 top-rated stocks to choose from.

That's where the Style Scores come in.

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Stock to Watch: Exelixis (EXEL - Free Report) Alameda, CA-based Exelixis, Inc. is an oncology-focused biotechnology company that primarily focuses on the discovery, development and commercialization of new drugs for the treatment of difficult-to-treat cancers. The company is leveraging its investments, expertise and strategic partnerships to target an expanding range of tumor types and indications with its clinically differentiated pipeline of small molecules, antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) and other biotherapeutics.

EXEL is a #3 (Hold) on the Zacks Rank, with a VGM Score of A.

Momentum investors should take note of this Medical stock. EXEL has a Momentum Style Score of A, and shares are up 5.1% over the past four weeks.

For fiscal 2026, five analysts revised their earnings estimate upwards in the last 60 days, and the Zacks Consensus Estimate has increased $0.16 to $3.53 per share. EXEL boasts an average earnings surprise of +17%.

With a solid Zacks Rank and top-tier Momentum and VGM Style Scores, EXEL should be on investors' short list.

ALAMEDA, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Exelixis, Inc. (Nasdaq: EXEL) today announced that the company has entered into a clinical development collaboration with Merck, known as MSD outside of the United States and Canada, to supply KEYTRUDA QLEX™ (pembrolizumab and berahyaluronidase alfa-pmph) injection for subcutaneous administration in combination with zanzalintinib in STELLAR-316, a planned phase 3 pivotal trial in patients with resected stage II/III colorectal cancer (CRC). Under the terms of th.

Key Takeaways Exelixis and Merck will study zanzalintinib plus Keytruda Qlex in phase III CRC trial STELLAR-316.EXEL plans to launch STELLAR-316 in mid-2026 for MRD-positive stage II/III colorectal cancer.Zanzalintinib NDA with Tecentriq in metastatic CRC faces FDA action date of Dec. 3, 2026. Exelixis (EXEL - Free Report) announced a clinical development collaboration with pharma giant Merck & Co. (MRK - Free Report) to evaluate its pipeline candidate, zanzalintinib, in combination with subcutaneous Keytruda Qlex in the planned phase III STELLAR-316 study for resected stage II/III colorectal cancer (CRC).

Under the agreement, Exelixis will sponsor the STELLAR-316 study, while Merck will provide Keytruda Qlex for use in the study.

Exelixis expects to initiate STELLAR-316 in mid-2026.

Year to date, Exelixis’ shares have risen 11.1% against the industry’s decline of  2.7%.

Image Source: Zacks Investment Research

More on EXEL’s Efforts to Advance ZanzalintinibZanzalintinib is a novel oral kinase inhibitor that inhibits the activity of the TAM kinases (TYRO3, AXL, MeR), MET and VEGF receptors.

The late-stage STELLAR-316 will evaluate zanzalintinib with and without Keytruda Qlex in patients with resected stage II/III CRC who, following definitive therapy, have tested positive for molecular residual disease (MRD+) and have no radiographic evidence of disease — a high-risk population with substantial unmet need.

Keytruda is approved for several types of cancer.

The collaboration with Merck adds external validation to the zanzalintinib program.

Earlier this year, Exelixis partnered with Natera (NTRA - Free Report) , a global leader in cell-free DNA and precision medicine, for this study.

Natera will supply its Signatera assay to identify eligible MRD-positive patients for enrollment, further integrating precision medicine into the program.

EXEL Seeks to Diversify Portfolio Beyond CabometyxZanzalintinib represents the company’s most significant near-term catalyst.

Exelixis’ new drug application seeking approval of zanzalintinib in combination with Roche’s (RHHBY - Free Report) Tecentriq for previously treated metastatic CRC is under review in the United States. The targeted population includes patients who have already received standard chemotherapy regimens, including fluoropyrimidine-, oxaliplatin- and irinotecan-based therapies, as well as anti-EGFR treatment for RAS wild-type disease.

The regulatory body set a target action date of Dec. 3, 2026.

A potential approval will broaden the company’s portfolio and reduce dependence on its lead drug, Cabometyx.

Roche’s Tecentriq is a cancer immunotherapy that is approved around the world, either alone or in combination with targeted therapies and/or chemotherapies, for various types of cancer.

Exelixis collaborated with MRK in October 2024 to advance zanzalintinib.

In April 2026, MRK initiated LITESPARK-034, a phase III study evaluating zanzalintinib plus Welireg (belzutifan) versus Welireg and placebo in previously treated advanced renal cell carcinoma (RCC) patients who progressed after PD-1/L1 and VEGFR-TKI therapies.

This marks the second Merck-sponsored phase III study under the collaboration, following LITESPARK-033 (launched in December 2025), which is assessing the combination against cabozantinib in first-line advanced RCC post-adjuvant immunotherapy.

Exelixis also announced two additional studies of zanzalintinib — STELLAR-202, a planned phase II trial evaluating the drug in combination with MRK’s blockbuster drug Keytruda (pembrolizumab) as maintenance therapy in squamous non-small cell lung cancer, and a new expansion cohort in the ongoing phase Ib/II STELLAR-002 study assessing zanzalintinib plus docetaxel in metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer patients with measurable disease.

EXEL’s Zacks Rank

– Findings in neuroendocrine tumors, kidney cancer, advanced colorectal cancer and other tumors to be presented –

ALAMEDA, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Exelixis, Inc. (Nasdaq: EXEL) today announced presentations for its flagship product, CABOMETYX® (cabozantinib), and its investigational oral kinase inhibitor, zanzalintinib, at the 2026 American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Annual Meeting to be held from May 29 – June 2 in Chicago.

“The presentations at ASCO this year highlight the continued progress of our strategy to build upon the well-established therapeutic profile of CABOMETYX and accelerate the development of zanzalintinib, our next oncology franchise molecule,” said Dana T. Aftab, Ph.D., Executive Vice President, Research and Development, Exelixis. “New analyses from the phase 3 CABINET pivotal trial that further reinforce the foundational role of CABOMETYX in patient care, and findings from the phase 3 STELLAR-303 pivotal trial evaluating our investigational therapy, zanzalintinib, in metastatic colorectal cancer, will be presented. These collective data sets are a testament to our team’s dedication to improving the standards of care for patients with cancer.”

Studies to be presented at the 2026 ASCO Annual Meeting include:

Abstract Title

Presentation

Session Title

Session Date/Time

Cabozantinib

A phase 2 randomized trial of radium-223 dichloride and cabozantinib in patients (pts) with renal cell carcinoma (RCC) with bone metastases (BM): RADICAL (Alliance A031801)

Oral Abstract #4500

Genitourinary Cancer – Kidney and Bladder

Friday, May 29
2:45 – 2:57 p.m. CDT

Interim analysis of CaboMain: A prospective, single-arm phase 2 clinical trial of cabozantinib as maintenance therapy for patients with “ultra-high-risk” pediatric solid tumors

Rapid Oral Abstract #10014

Pediatric Oncology II

Saturday, May 30
8:27 – 8:33 a.m. CDT

Efficacy and safety of cabozantinib (CABO) in advanced neuroendocrine tumors (NET) according to hormone functional status: Subgroup analysis of phase 3 CABINET trial (Alliance A021602)

Poster #161 Abstract #4178

Gastrointestinal Cancer – Gastroesophageal, Pancreatic and Hepatobiliary

Saturday, May 30
9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. CDT

Cabozantinib in high-grade neuroendocrine neoplasms

Poster #166 Abstract #4183

Gastrointestinal Cancer – Gastroesophageal, Pancreatic and Hepatobiliary

Saturday, May 30
9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. CDT

EA3231: A randomized phase 3 study of BRAF-targeted therapy vs cabozantinib in RAI-refractory differentiated thyroid cancer with BRAF V600Em

Poster #589b Abstract #TPS6140

Head and Neck Cancer

Saturday, May 30
1:30 – 4:30 p.m. CDT

Cabozantinib plus nivolumab (C+N) versus sunitinib (S) in patients with advanced renal cell carcinoma (aRCC) and bone metastasis: Updated subgroup analysis of the phase 3 CheckMate-9ER trial

Poster #7 Abstract #4528

Genitourinary Cancer – Kidney and Bladder

Sunday, May 31
9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. CDT

Cabozantinib plus nivolumab (C+N) versus sunitinib (S) in patients with advanced renal cell carcinoma (aRCC) and liver metastasis: Subgroup analysis of the phase 3 CheckMate-9ER trial

Poster #9 Abstract

#4530

Genitourinary Cancer – Kidney and Bladder

Sunday, May 31
9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. CDT

PEMBROCABOSARC: A phase 2 trial combining pembrolizumab and cabozantinib in patients with advanced undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma

Rapid Oral Abstract

#11514

Sarcoma

Sunday, May 31
4:42 – 4:48 p.m. CDT

MAIN-CAV: Phase 3 randomized trial of maintenance cabozantinib and avelumab versus avelumab after first-line platinum-based chemotherapy (PBC) in patients (pts) with locally advanced/metastatic urothelial cancer (la/mUC; Alliance A032001)

Rapid Oral Abstract #4514

Genitourinary Cancer – Kidney and Bladder

Monday, June 1
8:00 – 8:06 a.m. CDT

Final results of a phase 2 trial of cabozantinib plus nivolumab (CaboNivo) in patients with non-clear cell renal cell carcinoma (nccRCC)

Rapid Oral Abstract

#4521

Genitourinary Cancer – Kidney and Bladder

Monday, June 1
9:12 – 9:18 a.m. CDT

Survival outcomes of cabozantinib treatment with and without immune checkpoint inhibition in patients with heavily pretreated advanced sarcoma

Poster #341 Abstract #11551

Sarcoma

Monday, June 1
1:30 – 4:30 p.m. CDT

Safety and feasibility of cabozantinib (CABO) in combination with cisplatin, doxorubicin, and high-dose methotrexate (MAP) in patients with newly diagnosed high-risk osteosarcoma (OS)

Poster #281 Abstract #10030

Pediatric Oncology

Monday, June 1
1:30 – 4:30 p.m. CDT

Zanzalintinib

Contribution of atezolizumab (atezo) to the efficacy of the zanzalintinib (zanza) + atezo combination in patients (pts) with previously treated metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC): Evidence from the phase 3 STELLAR-303 trial

Poster #341 Abstract #3574

Gastrointestinal Cancer – Colorectal and Anal

Saturday, May 30
9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. CDT

ZAMBONI: A phase 2 study of zanzalintinib for metastatic clear cell renal cell carcinoma with bone metastases previously treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors

Poster #110b Abstract #TPS4634

Genitourinary Cancer – Kidney and Bladder

Sunday, May 31
9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. CDT

A phase 2 trial of neoadjuvant zanzalintinib (ZANZA) plus nivolumab (NIVO) in patients with locally advanced and/or surgically challenging clear cell renal cell carcinoma (EXPLORE-RCC)

Poster #108a Abstract

#TPS4629

Genitourinary Cancer – Kidney and Bladder

Sunday, May 31
9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. CDT

LITESPARK-033: Phase 3 study of belzutifan plus zanzalintinib versus cabozantinib for recurrent clear cell renal cell carcinoma during or after adjuvant anti-PD-(L)1 therapy

Poster #110a Abstract #TPS4633

Genitourinary Cancer – Kidney and Bladder

Sunday, May 31
9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. CDT

About CABOMETYX® (cabozantinib)
In the U.S., CABOMETYX tablets are approved as monotherapy for the treatment of patients with advanced RCC and in combination with nivolumab as a first-line treatment for patients with advanced RCC; for the treatment of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) who have been previously treated with sorafenib; for adult and pediatric patients 12 years of age and older with locally advanced or metastatic differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC) that has progressed following prior VEGFR-targeted therapy and who are radioactive iodine-refractory or ineligible; for the treatment of adult and pediatric patients 12 years of age and older with previously treated, unresectable, locally advanced or metastatic, well-differentiated pancreatic NET; and adult and pediatric patients 12 years of age and older with previously treated, unresectable, locally advanced or metastatic, well-differentiated extra-pancreatic NET. CABOMETYX tablets have also received regulatory approvals in over 65 countries outside the U.S. and Japan, including the EU. In 2016, Exelixis granted Ipsen Pharma SAS exclusive rights for the commercialization and further clinical development of cabozantinib outside of the U.S. and Japan. In 2017, Exelixis granted exclusive rights to Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited for the commercialization and further clinical development of cabozantinib for all future indications in Japan. Exelixis holds the exclusive rights to develop and commercialize cabozantinib in the U.S.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS

Hemorrhage: CABOMETYX can cause severe and fatal hemorrhages. The incidence of Grade 3-5 hemorrhagic events was 5% in CABOMETYX patients in RCC, HCC, and DTC studies. Discontinue CABOMETYX for Grade 3-4 hemorrhage and before surgery. Do not administer to patients who have a recent history of hemorrhage, including hemoptysis, hematemesis, or melena.

Perforations and Fistulas: Fistulas, including fatal cases, and gastrointestinal (GI) perforations, including fatal cases, each occurred in 1% of CABOMETYX patients. Monitor for signs and symptoms, and discontinue CABOMETYX in patients with Grade 4 fistulas or GI perforation.

Thromboembolic Events: CABOMETYX can cause arterial or venous thromboembolic events. Venous thromboembolism occurred in 7% (including 4% pulmonary embolism) and arterial thromboembolism in 2% of CABOMETYX patients. Fatal thrombotic events have occurred. Discontinue CABOMETYX in patients who develop an acute myocardial infarction or serious arterial or venous thromboembolic events.

Hypertension and Hypertensive Crisis: CABOMETYX can cause hypertension, including hypertensive crisis. Hypertension was reported in 37% (16% Grade 3 and <1% Grade 4) of CABOMETYX patients. In CABINET (n=195), hypertension occurred in 65% (26% Grade 3) of CABOMETYX patients. Do not initiate CABOMETYX in patients with uncontrolled hypertension. Monitor blood pressure regularly during CABOMETYX treatment. Withhold CABOMETYX for hypertension that is not adequately controlled; when controlled, resume at a reduced dose. Permanently discontinue CABOMETYX for severe hypertension that cannot be controlled with antihypertensive therapy or for hypertensive crisis.

Cardiac Failure: CABOMETYX can cause severe and fatal cardiac failure. Cardiac failure occurred in 0.5% of patients treated with CABOMETYX as a single agent, including fatal cardiac failure in 0.1% of patients. Consider baseline and periodic evaluations of left ventricular ejection fraction. Monitor for signs and symptoms of cardiovascular events. Withhold and resume at a reduced dose upon recovery or permanently discontinue depending on the severity.

Diarrhea: CABOMETYX can cause diarrhea and it occurred in 62% (10% Grade 3) of treated patients. Monitor and manage patients using antidiarrheals as indicated. Withhold CABOMETYX until improvement to ≤ Grade 1; resume at a reduced dose.

Palmar-Plantar Erythrodysesthesia (PPE): CABOMETYX can cause PPE and it occurred in 45% of treated patients (13% Grade 3). Withhold CABOMETYX until PPE resolves or decreases to Grade 1 and resume at a reduced dose for intolerable Grade 2 PPE or Grade 3 PPE.

Hepatotoxicity: CABOMETYX in combination with nivolumab in RCC can cause hepatic toxicity with higher frequencies of Grades 3 and 4 ALT and AST elevations compared to CABOMETYX alone. With the combination of CABOMETYX and nivolumab, Grades 3 and 4 increased ALT or AST were seen in 11% of patients. Monitor liver enzymes before initiation of treatment and periodically. Consider more frequent monitoring as compared to when the drugs are administered as single agents. Consider withholding CABOMETYX and/or nivolumab, initiating corticosteroid therapy, and/or permanently discontinuing the combination for severe or life-threatening hepatotoxicity.

Adrenal Insufficiency: CABOMETYX in combination with nivolumab can cause primary or secondary adrenal insufficiency. Adrenal insufficiency occurred in 4.7% (15/320) of patients with RCC who received CABOMETYX with nivolumab, including Grade 3 (2.2%), and Grade 2 (1.9%) adverse reactions. Withhold CABOMETYX and/or nivolumab and resume CABOMETYX at a reduced dose depending on severity.

Proteinuria: Proteinuria was observed in 8% of CABOMETYX patients. Monitor urine protein regularly during CABOMETYX treatment. For Grade 2 or 3 proteinuria, withhold CABOMETYX until improvement to ≤ Grade 1 proteinuria; resume CABOMETYX at a reduced dose. Discontinue CABOMETYX in patients who develop nephrotic syndrome.

Osteonecrosis of the Jaw (ONJ): CABOMETYX can cause ONJ and it occurred in <1% of treated patients. Perform an oral examination prior to CABOMETYX initiation and periodically during treatment. Advise patients regarding good oral hygiene practices. Withhold CABOMETYX for at least 3 weeks prior to scheduled dental surgery or invasive dental procedures. Withhold CABOMETYX for development of ONJ until complete resolution; resume at a reduced dose.

Impaired Wound Healing: CABOMETYX can cause impaired wound healing. Withhold CABOMETYX for at least 3 weeks prior to elective surgery. Do not administer for at least 2 weeks after major surgery and until adequate wound healing. The safety of resumption of CABOMETYX after resolution of wound healing complications has not been established.

Reversible Posterior Leukoencephalopathy Syndrome (RPLS): CABOMETYX can cause RPLS. Perform evaluation for RPLS and diagnose by characteristic finding on MRI any patient presenting with seizures, headache, visual disturbances, confusion, or altered mental function. Discontinue CABOMETYX in patients who develop RPLS.

Thyroid Dysfunction: CABOMETYX can cause thyroid dysfunction, primarily hypothyroidism, and it occurred in 19% of treated patients (0.4% Grade 3). Assess for signs of thyroid dysfunction prior to the initiation of CABOMETYX and monitor for signs and symptoms during treatment.

Hypocalcemia: CABOMETYX can cause hypocalcemia, with the highest incidence in DTC patients. Based on the safety population, hypocalcemia occurred in 13% of CABOMETYX patients (2% Grade 3 and 1% Grade 4).

Monitor blood calcium levels and replace calcium as necessary during treatment. Withhold and resume CABOMETYX at a reduced dose upon recovery or permanently discontinue CABOMETYX depending on severity.

Embryo-Fetal Toxicity: CABOMETYX can cause fetal harm. Advise pregnant women of the potential risk to a fetus and advise females of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with CABOMETYX and for 4 months after the last dose.

ADVERSE REACTIONS

The most common (≥20%) adverse reactions are:

CABOMETYX as a single agent: diarrhea, fatigue, PPE, decreased appetite, hypertension, nausea, vomiting, weight decreased, and constipation.

CABOMETYX in combination with nivolumab: diarrhea, fatigue, hepatotoxicity, PPE, stomatitis, rash, hypertension, hypothyroidism, musculoskeletal pain, decreased appetite, nausea, dysgeusia, abdominal pain, cough, and upper respiratory tract infection.

DRUG INTERACTIONS

Strong CYP3A4 Inhibitors: If coadministration with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors cannot be avoided, reduce the CABOMETYX dosage. Avoid grapefruit or grapefruit juice.

Strong or Moderate CYP3A4 Inducers: If coadministration with strong or moderate CYP3A4 inducers cannot be avoided, increase the CABOMETYX dosage. Avoid St. John’s wort.

USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS

Lactation: Advise women not to breastfeed during CABOMETYX treatment and for 4 months after the final dose.

Hepatic Impairment: In patients with moderate hepatic impairment, reduce the CABOMETYX dosage. Avoid CABOMETYX in patients with severe hepatic impairment.

Pediatric Use: Physeal widening has been observed in children with open growth plates when treated with CABOMETYX. Physeal and longitudinal growth monitoring is recommended in children (12 years and older) with open growth plates. Consider interrupting or discontinuing CABOMETYX if abnormalities occur. The safety and effectiveness of CABOMETYX in pediatric patients less than 12 years of age have not been established.

Please see accompanying full Prescribing Information https://www.cabometyx.com/downloads/CABOMETYXUSPI.pdf.

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.FDA.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

About Zanzalintinib
Zanzalintinib is a novel oral kinase inhibitor that inhibits the activity of the TAM kinases (TYRO3, AXL, MER), MET and VEGF receptors. These kinases play important roles in oncogenic processes, including tumor cell proliferation, metastasis, angiogenesis, drug resistance and evasion of antitumor immunity. The zanzalintinib development program includes a series of ongoing and planned pivotal trials to explore its therapeutic potential in CRC, clear cell and non-clear cell RCC, and NET, as well as earlier-stage trials in meningioma, lung cancer and castration-resistant prostate cancer.

In February 2026, Exelixis announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) accepted the company’s New Drug Application for zanzalintinib, in combination with atezolizumab (Tecentriq®), for the treatment of adult patients with mCRC who have been previously treated with fluoropyrimidine-, oxaliplatin- and irinotecan-based chemotherapy, and, if RAS wild-type, an anti-epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) therapy. The FDA assigned a Prescription Drug User Fee Act target action date of December 3, 2026.

Zanzalintinib is an investigational agent that is not approved for any use and is the subject of ongoing clinical trials.

About Exelixis
Exelixis is a globally ambitious oncology company innovating next-generation medicines and regimens at the forefront of cancer care. Powered by drug discovery and development excellence, we are rapidly evolving our product portfolio to target an expanding range of tumor types and indications with our clinically differentiated pipeline of small molecules and biotherapeutics. This comprehensive approach harnesses decades of robust investment in our science and partnerships to advance our pipeline of franchise molecules, including our novel oral kinase inhibitor zanzalintinib, and to extend the impact of our flagship commercial product, CABOMETYX® (cabozantinib). Exelixis is driven by a bold scientific pursuit to create transformational treatments that give more patients hope for the future. For information about the company and its mission to help cancer patients recover stronger and live longer, visit www.exelixis.com, follow @ExelixisInc on X (Twitter), like Exelixis, Inc. on Facebook and follow Exelixis on LinkedIn.

Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains forward-looking statements, including, without limitation, statements related to: Exelixis’ planned presentations for cabozantinib and zanzalintinib, including new analyses from the phase 3 CABINET and STELLAR-303 trials, at the 2026 ASCO Annual Meeting; Exelixis’ strategy to build upon the well-established therapeutic profile of CABOMETYX and accelerate the development of zanzalintinib, its next oncology franchise molecule; Exelixis’ dedication to improving the standards of care for patients with cancer; and Exelixis’ scientific pursuit to create transformational treatments that give more patients hope for the future. Any statements that refer to expectations, projections or other characterizations of future events or circumstances are forward-looking statements and are based upon Exelixis’ current plans, assumptions, beliefs, expectations, estimates and projections. Forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties. Actual results and the timing of events could differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking statements as a result of these risks and uncertainties, which include, without limitation: the availability of data at the referenced times; complexities and the unpredictability of the regulatory review and approval processes in the U.S. and elsewhere; Exelixis’ continuing compliance with applicable legal and regulatory requirements; the potential failure of cabozantinib or zanzalintinib to demonstrate safety and/or efficacy in clinical trials; unexpected concerns that may arise as a result of the occurrence of adverse safety events or additional data analyses of clinical trials evaluating cabozantinib or zanzalintinib; the costs of conducting clinical trials; Exelixis’ dependence on third-party vendors for the development, manufacture and supply of cabozantinib and zanzalintinib; Exelixis’ ability to protect its intellectual property rights; market competition, including the potential for competitors to obtain approval for generic versions of Exelixis’ marketed products; changes in economic and business conditions; and other factors affecting Exelixis and its development programs detailed from time to time under the caption “Risk Factors” in Exelixis’ most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, and in Exelixis’ future filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. All forward-looking statements in this press release are based on information available to Exelixis as of the date of this press release, and Exelixis undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements contained herein, except as required by law.

Exelixis, the Exelixis logo and CABOMETYX are registered U.S. trademarks of Exelixis.

TECENTRIQ is a registered U.S. trademark of Genentech, a member of the Roche Group.

More News From Exelixis, Inc.

Exelixis remains undervalued despite a 13%+ rally post-Q1, supported by robust double-digit growth, sector-leading profitability, and strong free cash flow. Q1 revenue grew 10% year-over-year, driven almost entirely by CABOMETYX demand; operating margin expanded to 41.1% as costs fell. I maintain a Buy rating with a $57 target, reflecting 13% upside; DCF and peer multiples confirm the valuation gap persists.

ALAMEDA, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Exelixis, Inc. (Nasdaq: EXEL) today announced that company management will participate in fireside chats at the following investor conferences in June: 2026 Jefferies Global Healthcare Conference: Exelixis is scheduled to present at 11:05 a.m. ET / 8:05 a.m. PT on Wednesday, June 3 in New York City. Goldman Sachs 47th Annual Global Healthcare Conference: Exelixis is scheduled to present at 10:40 a.m. ET / 7:40 a.m. PT on Tuesday, June 9 in Miami. To access the.

This post may contain links from our sponsors and affiliates, and Flywheel Publishing may receive compensation for actions taken through them.

© Ridofranz / iStock via Getty Images

When Wall Street’s growth-at-any-price trade cools, capital tends to rotate toward profitable, cash-generative healthcare names, a pattern that has played out across decades of monetary cycles. With the S&P 500 trading at rich multiples and earnings expectations leaning heavily on tech, investors hunting for under-the-radar names near $50 a share have a reason to look at oncology specialists with real cash flow rather than speculative pipeline-only biotechs.

With that in mind, here is one biotech stock trading near $50 that fits the profile of a defensive growth name analysts believe still has room to run.

Exelixis (NASDAQ: EXEL) Exelixis (NASDAQ:EXEL | EXEL Price Prediction) is an oncology-focused biotechnology company headquartered in Alameda, California, that discovers and commercializes targeted cancer therapies, most notably CABOMETYX in kidney, liver, and thyroid cancers.

Shares trade near $50, after a 12.05% gain over the past month and a 14.15% year-to-date advance. For a retail investor, that price point still buys a profitable mid-cap biotech with a $12.58 billion market capitalization rather than a speculative clinical-stage name.

Fundamentals back up the price action. Q1 2026 non-GAAP EPS came in at $0.87, beating consensus by 14.02%, on revenue of $610.81 million, up 9.97% year over year. Operating income jumped 34.51% and net income climbed 31.86%. That marks four consecutive earnings beats with surprise margins between 14.02% and 17.17%.

The stock trades at a trailing P/E of 17 and a forward P/E of 16, with an analyst target price of $49.65 reflecting one strong buy, nine buy, and nine hold ratings. H.C. Wainwright carries a $54 price target with a Buy rating.

The bull case is straightforward. CABOMETYX is the number one prescribed TKI in renal cell carcinoma, and global cabozantinib franchise revenue grew 12.5% year over year to $764 million in Q1. Management is sitting on roughly $1.4 billion in cash and marketable securities and just authorized a new $750 million buyback running through December 31, 2027, on top of completing the prior $750 million program. Layered on top is the December 3, 2026 PDUFA date for zanzalintinib in previously treated metastatic colorectal cancer, an indication CEO Michael Morrissey called “the top priority for the entire Exelixis, Inc. organization,” with a market opportunity management pegs at approximately $1.5 billion. FY2026 guidance of $2.525 billion to $2.625 billion in total revenue explicitly excludes any zanzalintinib launch contribution, leaving room for upside.

The key risk is concentration. The cabozantinib franchise still generates the overwhelming majority of revenue, and a regulatory delay or rejection of zanzalintinib would remove the most-watched near-term catalyst. Clinical disappointments, such as the LightSpark-012 readout management referenced, are a reminder that “triplet therapy in clear cell renal cell carcinoma is not an easy game.” Generic pressure on cabozantinib later this decade also looms.

With a beta of 0.385, profitable operations, an aggressive buyback, and a binary catalyst landing in December, EXEL looks like the kind of cash-generative oncology name that historically benefits when defensive healthcare comes back into favor.

A share price near $50 is a frame of reference, not a thesis. Concentration risk, FDA outcomes, and broader sector rotation can all move quickly, so readers should treat this as a starting point for their own due diligence rather than a recommendation, and size any position around their own risk tolerance and time horizon.

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Each stock is assigned a rating of A, B, C, D, or F based on their value, growth, and momentum characteristics. Just like in school, an A is better than a B, a B is better than a C, and so on -- that means the better the score, the better chance the stock will outperform.

The Style Scores are broken down into four categories:

Value ScoreValue investors love finding good stocks at good prices, especially before the broader market catches on to a stock's true value. Utilizing ratios like P/E, PEG, Price/Sales, Price/Cash Flow, and many other multiples, the Value Style Score identifies the most attractive and most discounted stocks.

Growth ScoreGrowth investors are more concerned with a stock's future prospects, and the overall financial health and strength of a company. Thus, the Growth Style Score analyzes characteristics like projected and historic earnings, sales, and cash flow to find stocks that will see sustainable growth over time.

Momentum ScoreMomentum investors, who live by the saying "the trend is your friend," are most interested in taking advantage of upward or downward trends in a stock's price or earnings outlook. Utilizing one-week price change and the monthly percentage change in earnings estimates, among other factors, the Momentum Style Score can help determine favorable times to buy high-momentum stocks.

VGM ScoreWhat if you like to use all three types of investing? The VGM Score is a combination of all Style Scores, making it one of the most comprehensive indicators to use with the Zacks Rank. It rates each stock on their combined weighted styles, which helps narrow down the companies with the most attractive value, best growth forecast, and most promising momentum.

How Style Scores Work with the Zacks Rank A proprietary stock-rating model, the Zacks Rank utilizes the power of earnings estimate revisions, or changes to a company's earnings outlook, to help investors create a successful portfolio.

Investors can count on the Zacks Rank's success, with #1 (Strong Buy) stocks producing an unmatched +23.7% average annual return since 1988, more than double the S&P 500's performance. But the model rates a large number of stocks, and there are over 200 companies with a Strong Buy rank, plus another 600 with a #2 (Buy) rank, on any given day.

But it can feel overwhelming to pick the right stocks for you and your investing goals with over 800 top-rated stocks to choose from.

That's where the Style Scores come in.

You want to make sure you're buying stocks with the highest likelihood of success, and to do that, you'll need to pick stocks with a Zacks Rank #1 or #2 that also have Style Scores of A or B. If you like a stock that only has a #3 (Hold) rank, it should also have Scores of A or B to guarantee as much upside potential as possible.

The direction of a stock's earnings estimate revisions should always be a key factor when choosing which stocks to buy, since the Scores were created to work together with the Zacks Rank.

Here's an example: a stock with a #4 (Sell) or #5 (Strong Sell) rating, even one with Style Scores of A and B, still has a downward-trending earnings outlook, and a bigger chance its share price will decrease too.

Thus, the more stocks you own with a #1 or #2 Rank and Scores of A or B, the better.

Stock to Watch: Exelixis (EXEL - Free Report) Alameda, CA-based Exelixis, Inc. is an oncology-focused biotechnology company that primarily focuses on the discovery, development and commercialization of new drugs for the treatment of difficult-to-treat cancers. The company is leveraging its investments, expertise and strategic partnerships to target an expanding range of tumor types and indications with its clinically differentiated pipeline of small molecules, antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) and other biotherapeutics.

EXEL is a #3 (Hold) on the Zacks Rank, with a VGM Score of A.

Momentum investors should take note of this Medical stock. EXEL has a Momentum Style Score of A, and shares are up 15.6% over the past four weeks.

Five analysts revised their earnings estimate upwards in the last 60 days for fiscal 2026. The Zacks Consensus Estimate has increased $0.14 to $3.55 per share. EXEL boasts an average earnings surprise of +17%.

With a solid Zacks Rank and top-tier Momentum and VGM Style Scores, EXEL should be on investors' short list.

Exelixis, Inc. (EXEL) Presents at Jefferies Global Healthcare Conference 2026 Transcript

It has been about a month since the last earnings report for Exelixis (EXEL - Free Report) . Shares have added about 6% in that time frame, outperforming the S&P 500.

But investors have to be wondering, will the recent positive trend continue leading up to its next earnings release, or is Exelixis due for a pullback? Well, first let's take a quick look at its latest earnings report in order to get a better handle on the recent drivers for Exelixis, Inc. before we dive into how investors and analysts have reacted as of late.

EXEL Q1 Earnings Top Estimates, Colorectal Cancer Drug in Focus

Exelixis reported mixed results for the first quarter of 2026.

Adjusted earnings per share (EPS) of 87 cents comfortably beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 75 cents. The company posted adjusted EPS of 62 cents in the year-ago quarter. Adjusted earnings exclude the impact of stock-based compensation expenses.

Including stock-based compensation expense, EPS was 79 cents compared with 55 cents in the year-ago period.

The bottom-line growth benefited from lower operating expenses and a decrease in shares outstanding due to ongoing buybacks.

Net revenues of $611 million missed the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $613 million. The top line was up 10% year over year.

EXEL’s Q1 Results in Detail

Net product revenues of $555.0 million were up from $513.3 million in the year-ago quarter. Management attributed the increase to higher sales volume.

Cabometyx (cabozantinib) generated revenues of $552.8 million, which missed the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $558 million and our model estimate of $564 million. The drug is approved for advanced renal cell carcinoma (RCC) and previously treated hepatocellular carcinoma.

In March 2025, Exelixis obtained FDA approval for the label expansion of Cabometyx for the treatment of adult and pediatric patients 12 years of age and older with previously treated, unresectable, locally advanced or metastatic, well-differentiated pancreatic and extra-pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (pNET).

The drug was also approved for adult and pediatric patients 12 years of age and older with previously treated, unresectable, locally advanced or metastatic, well-differentiated extra-pancreatic NET (epNET).  

Cometriq (cabozantinib capsules) generated $2.2 million in net product revenues for treating medullary thyroid cancer.  

Collaboration revenues, comprising license and collaboration services revenues, totaled $55.8 million, up 32.4% year over year. The improvement reflected higher royalty revenues from ex-U.S. cabozantinib sales generated by Ipsen and higher milestone-related revenues recognized during the period.

Research and development expenses amounted to $199.9 million, down from $212.2 million in the prior-year quarter due to lower clinical trial and manufacturing costs.

Selling, general and administrative expenses totaled $139.6 million, up 1.8% year over year, primarily due to increases in marketing activities, legal and advisory fees, and personnel expenses.

As of the end of the first quarter of 2026, Exelixis repurchased $590.6 million of its shares under the $750 million share repurchase program (SRP) authorized in October 2025. The company expects to complete the remaining portion of this program in May 2026, ahead of its original commitment to finish by Dec. 31, 2026.

Since initiating its first SRP in March 2023, Exelixis has repurchased a total of $2.59 billion of its common stock, retiring 86.8 million shares at an average price of $29.86 per share as of quarter-end.

In May 2026, the company’s board of directors approved a new $750 million SRP, with authorization extending through Dec. 31, 2027. This marks the sixth SRP launched since March 2023.

EXEL Reaffirms 2026 Guidance

Exelixis has reiterated its guidance for 2026. The company expects total revenues of $2.525-$2.625 billion in 2026. Net product revenues are projected to be in the range of $2.325-$2.425 billion.

Exelixis’ 2026 net product revenue guidance includes a 3.0% increase in wholesale acquisition costs for Cabometyx and Cometriq in the United States, effective Jan. 1, 2026.

The annual guidance excludes any contribution from a potential approval of zanzalintinib in metastatic colorectal cancer (CRC).

Operating expenses are projected to increase. The company expects R&D expenses of $875-$925 million and SG&A expenses of $575-$625 million.

Key Pipeline and Regulatory Updates From EXEL

The company is developing zanzalintinib, a next-generation oral investigational tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI).

In February 2026, the FDA accepted EXEL’s new drug application seeking approval of zanzalintinib in previously treated metastatic CRC — in combination  with Tecentriq (atezolizumab). The regulatory body assigned a target action date of Dec. 3, 2026.

The NDA is supported by positive phase III STELLAR-303 data demonstrating a statistically significant reduction in the risk of death compared with Stivarga (regorafenib).

Roche’s Tecentriq is a cancer immunotherapy that is approved around the world, either alone or in combination with targeted therapies and/or chemotherapies, for various types of cancer.

Exelixis is gearing up for the potential first commercial launch of zanzalintinib for the above-mentioned indication.  

A phase III study, STELLAR-304, is evaluating zanzalintinib in combination with Opdivo (nivolumab) versus Sutent (sunitinib) in previously untreated patients with advanced non-clear cell RCC. Top-line results are expected in the second half of 2026, based on current event rates.

Earlier this year, Exelixis collaborated with Natera for the STELLAR-316 study. This phase III study is being sponsored by Exelixis. The study will evaluate zanzalintinib, with and without an immune checkpoint inhibitor, in patients with resected stage II/III CRC.

Patients with CRC who are molecular residual disease (MRD)-positive based on Natera’s Signatera test following completion of definitive therapy — and who have no radiographic evidence of disease — will be eligible for enrollment in the STELLAR-316 trial. Exelixis expects to initiate this study in mid-2026.

Exelixis also collaborated with pharma giant Merck in October 2024 to advance zanzalintinib.

In April 2026, Merck initiated LITESPARK-034, a phase II trial evaluating zanzalintinib plus Welireg (belzutifan) versus Welireg and placebo in previously treated advanced RCC patients who progressed after PD-1/L1 and VEGFR-TKI therapies.

This marks the second Merck-sponsored phase III study under the collaboration, following LITESPARK-033 (launched in December 2025), which is assessing the combination against cabozantinib in first-line advanced RCC post-adjuvant immunotherapy.

Exelixis also announced two additional studies of zanzalintinib — STELLAR-202, a planned phase II trial evaluating the drug in combination with MRK’s blockbuster drug Keytruda (pembrolizumab) as maintenance therapy in squamous non-small cell lung cancer, and a new expansion cohort in the ongoing phase Ib/II STELLAR-002 study assessing zanzalintinib plus docetaxel in metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer patients with measurable disease. Exelixis plans to launch STELLAR-202 and open the STELLAR-002 expansion cohort in the second half of 2026.

How Have Estimates Been Moving Since Then?In the past month, investors have witnessed a upward trend in estimates review.

VGM ScoresCurrently, Exelixis has a great Growth Score of A, though it is lagging a lot on the Momentum Score front with a C. Charting a somewhat similar path, the stock was allocated a score of B on the value side, putting it in the top 40% for value investors.

Overall, the stock has an aggregate VGM Score of A. If you aren't focused on one strategy, this score is the one you should be interested in.

OutlookEstimates have been broadly trending upward for the stock, and the magnitude of these revisions looks promising. Notably, Exelixis has a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). We expect an in-line return from the stock in the next few months.

Performance of an Industry PlayerExelixis belongs to the Zacks Medical - Biomedical and Genetics industry. Another stock from the same industry, Agios Pharmaceuticals (AGIO - Free Report) , has gained 2.6% over the past month. More than a month has passed since the company reported results for the quarter ended March 2026.

Agios Pharmaceuticals reported revenues of $20.75 million in the last reported quarter, representing a year-over-year change of +137.7%. EPS of -$1.69 for the same period compares with -$1.55 a year ago.

For the current quarter, Agios Pharmaceuticals is expected to post a loss of $1.74 per share, indicating a change of +9.8% from the year-ago quarter. The Zacks Consensus Estimate has changed -4.6% over the last 30 days.

Agios Pharmaceuticals has a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) based on the overall direction and magnitude of estimate revisions. Additionally, the stock has a VGM Score of F.

Drug adoption and a strong pipeline see institutions send Exelixis, Inc. (EXEL) shares to all-time highs.

EXEL is an oncology company that discovers, develops, and commercializes new treatments for hard-to-treat cancers. Its first-quarter 2026 report showed $611 million in quarterly revenue, GAAP net income of $210.5 million ($0.79 per diluted share), $1.4 billion in cash, along with $430.8 million in repurchases last quarter and another $750 million authorized for more.

It’s no wonder EXEL shares are up 21% so far this year – and they could rise more. MoneyFlows data shows how Big Money investors are once again betting heavily on the forward picture of the stock.

Institutional Inflows Finding Exelixis Institutional volumes reveal plenty. In the last year, EXEL has enjoyed strong investor demand, which we believe to be institutional support.

Each green bar signals unusually large volumes in EXEL shares. They reflect our proprietary inflow signal, pushing the stock higher:

Source: www.moneyflows.com Plenty of healthcare names are under accumulation right now. But there’s a powerful fundamental story happening with Exelixis.

Exelixis Fundamental Analysis Institutional support and a healthy fundamental backdrop make this company worth investigating. As you can see, EXEL has had strong sales and earnings growth:

3-year sales growth rate (+13%) 3-year EPS growth rate (+83.6%) Source: FactSet

Also, EPS is estimated to ramp higher this year by +12.4%.

Now it makes sense why the stock has been generating Big Money interest. EXEL has a track record of strong financial performance.

Marrying great fundamentals with our proprietary software has found some big winning stocks over the long term.

Exelixis has been a top-rated stock at MoneyFlows. That means the stock has unusual buy pressure and growing fundamentals. We have a ranking process that showcases stocks like this on a weekly basis.

It’s made the rare Outlier 20 report 29 times, rising 125% since the first outlier inflow signal. The blue bars below show when EXEL was a top pick since 2017…Big Money keeps buying:

Source: www.moneyflows.com Tracking unusual volumes reveals the power of money flows.

This is a trait that most outlier stocks exhibit…the best of the best. Big Money demand drives stocks upward.

Exelixis Price Prediction The EXEL action isn’t new at all. Big Money buying in the shares is signaling to take notice. Given the historical gains in share price and strong fundamentals, this stock could be worth a spot in a diversified portfolio.

Disclosure: the author holds no position in EXEL at the time of publication.

If you are a Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) or are a serious investor, take your investing to the next level and follow our free weekly MoneyFlows insights.

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Lucas is a well-versed equity investor and educator. He currently is co-founder of research and analytics firm, MAPsignals.com, which focuses on finding outlier stocks by following the Big Money.

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