Sanofi or Alnylam Pharmaceuticals, Inc.: Who Manages SG&A Costs Better?

Managing SG&A Costs: Sanofi vs. Alnylam Pharmaceuticals

In the competitive world of pharmaceuticals, managing Selling, General, and Administrative (SG&A) expenses is crucial for maintaining profitability. Over the past decade, Sanofi and Alnylam Pharmaceuticals have taken different paths in managing these costs. Sanofi, a global leader, consistently reported SG&A expenses around $9 billion annually, peaking at $10.8 billion in 2023. In contrast, Alnylam, a smaller biotech firm, saw its SG&A expenses grow from $44 million in 2014 to $796 million in 2023, reflecting its rapid expansion and investment in growth.

While Sanofi's expenses remained relatively stable, Alnylam's increased by over 1,700% during this period. This stark difference highlights the contrasting strategies of a mature pharmaceutical giant versus an emerging biotech innovator. Understanding these trends provides valuable insights into how companies balance growth and cost management in the ever-evolving pharmaceutical landscape.