German-based BioNTech (BNTX), best known for its collaboration with Pfizer (PFE) during the COVID-19 pandemic for developing vaccines, found itself back in the spotlight this month. The company’s U.S.-listed shares surged nearly 18.1% on June 2 following the announcement of a major partnership with pharmaceutical heavyweight Bristol-Myers Squibb (BMY). 

The two companies have agreed to jointly develop and commercialize BioNTech’s experimental cancer immunotherapy, BNT327, an early stage drug candidate designed to target various solid tumors. The headline-grabbing deal, worth up to $11.1 billion, including $3.5 billion in upfront and near-term payments, marks a major bet by Bristol-Myers Squibb on BioNTech’s next-generation cancer immunotherapy. 

The collaboration, which centers on BNT327, a potential rival to Merck’s (MRK) blockbuster cancer drug Keytruda, signals massive confidence in the German biotech firm’s ability to deliver beyond its pandemic-era breakthrough and make a lasting mark in oncology. So, with BNTX stock enjoying investors’ attention now, here’s a closer look at this name. 

About BioNTech Stock

BioNTech SE (BNTX) is a fully integrated global immunotherapy company pioneering next-generation treatments for cancer, infectious diseases, and other serious conditions. The company rose to global prominence in 2021 with Comirnaty, the first COVID-19 vaccine approved by the FDA, which was developed in collaboration with Pfizer. 

Beyond its pandemic breakthrough, BioNTech has developed a diverse clinical pipeline comprising over 25 candidates across oncology and infectious diseases.  With partnerships spanning Pfizer, Roche’s (RHHBY) Genentech, Regeneron (REGN), and now Bristol-Myers Squibb, BioNTech appears to be positioning itself as a long-term leader in the evolution of immunotherapy.

Valued at approximately $27.2 billion by market cap, this German vaccine maker has had a subdued run so far this year, but momentum is shifting fast. Shares of BioNTech have rallied an impressive 17.3% over the past five days alone, leaving the broader S&P 500 Index’s ($SPX) 1.5% rise in the dust. The sharp rebound highlights a potential turning point as investors refocus on the company’s evolving pipeline and high-stakes cancer ambitions.

BioNTech’s Q1 Earnings Snapshot

On May 5, the German drugmaker reported its first quarter earnings results, which revealed a wider net loss and slightly lower revenues. First-quarter revenue slipped to 182.8 million euros from 187.6 million euros recorded a year earlier. Although the company attributed its first-quarter revenue slump to the expected seasonal lull in COVID-19 vaccine demand, it noted that the figure was still in line with management expectations.

On the bottom-line, net loss ballooned 32% year over year to 415.8 million euros during the quarter. Plus, loss per share widened to 1.73 euros from 1.31 euros, driven by increased R&D investment. Research and development expenses rose 3.7% annually to 525.6 million euros, reflecting the company’s push into late-stage trials for its antibody and ADC (antibody-drug conjugate) programs.

Nevertheless, despite these financial setbacks, BioNTech maintains a strong cash position with 15.9 billion euros in reserves as of March 31, 2025, giving it ample runway to fund its long-term oncology ambitions. For full-year 2025, the company reaffirmed its revenue guidance to range between 1.7 billion euros and 2.2 billion euros, with most revenue expected to arrive in the last quarter, mirroring the seasonal pattern seen in fiscal 2024.

What Do Analysts Expect for BioNTech Stock?

While BioNTech’s recent earnings may not have charmed investors, analysts are still placing strong bets on the stock’s future, especially in light of its expanding oncology pipeline. For instance, Clear Street analysts recently reaffirmed a “Buy” rating on BNTX, pointing to the company’s bold strategic moves in cancer therapeutics. 

Notably, BioNTech invested $55 million in 2023 and followed up with an $800 million deal in 2024 to secure full rights to a promising molecule now being co-developed with Bristol-Myers Squibb. Analysts view this asset as having significant milestone and revenue potential, a signal that BioNTech is playing the long game in oncology. Financially, BioNTech remains well-positioned to fund its ambitions. 

The company boasts a cash-rich balance sheet that far outweighs its debt, giving it ample flexibility to execute on its oncology roadmap. Moreover, Clear Street believes the market is still underestimating BioNTech’s transition from a fading COVID-19 vaccine player to a serious oncology contender. With that in mind, the firm raised its price target on BNTX to $181, up from $155, currently the highest target on Wall Street for the stock. 

Overall, Wall Street remains largely bullish on BNTX stock, with a consensus rating of “Strong Buy.” Of the 18 analysts offering recommendations, 13 give it a solid “Strong Buy,” and the remaining five give a “Hold.” While the average analyst price target of $134.52 points to 18% potential upside, Clear Street is aiming much higher. With a Street-high price target of $181, the firm sees BioNTech soaring as much as 58%, a bold bet on the company’s oncology ambitions.