Operational Costs Compared: SG&A Analysis of Novartis AG and Alnylam Pharmaceuticals, Inc.

A Decade of SG&A: Novartis AG vs. Alnylam Pharmaceuticals, Inc.

In the ever-evolving pharmaceutical industry, operational efficiency is key to maintaining a competitive edge. Over the past decade, from 2014 to 2023, Novartis AG and Alnylam Pharmaceuticals, Inc. have demonstrated contrasting trends in their Selling, General, and Administrative (SG&A) expenses. Novartis, a global leader, consistently reported SG&A expenses averaging around $14.5 billion annually, peaking in 2018. In contrast, Alnylam, a rising star in RNAi therapeutics, saw its SG&A expenses grow by over 1,600%, from $44.5 million in 2014 to nearly $796 million in 2023. This stark difference highlights Novartis's established market presence and Alnylam's aggressive growth strategy. As Alnylam continues to expand, its increasing SG&A expenses reflect its investment in scaling operations and market penetration. This analysis underscores the diverse strategies employed by pharmaceutical giants and emerging innovators in navigating the complex healthcare landscape.