Biogen Inc. or Opthea Limited: Who Manages SG&A Costs Better?

Biogen Inc. vs. Opthea Limited: A Decade of SG&A Management

In the competitive landscape of the pharmaceutical industry, managing Selling, General, and Administrative (SG&A) expenses is crucial for maintaining profitability. Over the past decade, Biogen Inc. and Opthea Limited have demonstrated contrasting approaches to SG&A cost management. Biogen, a leader in biotechnology, consistently reported SG&A expenses averaging around $2.3 billion annually from 2014 to 2023. In contrast, Opthea, a smaller player, maintained a leaner structure with expenses averaging approximately $12 million annually during the same period.

Biogen's SG&A expenses peaked in 2021, reaching nearly 17% above their 2014 levels, reflecting strategic investments in marketing and administration. Meanwhile, Opthea's expenses surged by over 1,500% from 2014 to 2023, indicating significant growth and expansion efforts. Despite the missing data for Biogen in 2024, the trend suggests a continued focus on strategic cost management. This analysis highlights the diverse strategies employed by these companies in navigating the financial intricacies of the pharmaceutical sector.