AbbVie Inc. vs Sarepta Therapeutics, Inc.: Strategic Focus on R&D Spending

Strategic R&D Investments: A Tale of Two Biopharma Giants

In the competitive landscape of biopharmaceuticals, research and development (R&D) spending is a critical indicator of a company's commitment to innovation. Over the past decade, AbbVie Inc. and Sarepta Therapeutics, Inc. have demonstrated contrasting strategies in their R&D investments. From 2014 to 2023, AbbVie has consistently outpaced Sarepta, with R&D expenses peaking at approximately $10 billion in 2018, a staggering 200% increase from 2014. In contrast, Sarepta's R&D spending, while growing, reached just under $900 million in 2023, marking a nearly tenfold increase since 2014. This disparity highlights AbbVie's robust financial capacity to drive innovation, while Sarepta's focused investments reflect its strategic niche in the market. As the biopharma industry evolves, these R&D trends underscore the diverse approaches companies take to maintain their competitive edge.