Meridian Funds Comments on Neurocrine Biosciences

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Aug 31, 2015

Neurocrine Biosciences (NBIX, Financial) is a pharmaceutical company with two development-stage programs focused on neurological and endocrine-based health problems. The company came to our attention after poor clinical trial results for one of its programs resulted in a 40% reduction in the share price. We invested because the issues with the trial were related to trial design, not drug efficacy. Management presented a credible plan for addressing the design issues, and the company’s valuation was capturing only a fraction of the potential cash flows that could be generated by both drug programs. Over the past year, both of Neurocrine’s drug programs have delivered strong clinical trial results and are on track for commercialization, which may drive significant earnings and cash flow growth. We have reduced our position somewhat over the past year due to the strong appreciation in share price but continue to hold shares in Neurocrine Biosciences.

From Meridian Growth Fund’s annual letter.