CRISPR Therapeutics vs. Viking Therapeutics: Which Healthcare Stock Is a Better Buy in 2026? Erin Kennedy, The Motley Fool

CRISPR Therapeutics rose 11.3% following its addition to several Russell growth indices in late June 2026, including the Russell 2000 Growth, 2500 Growth and 3000 Growth benchmarks. The inclusion increases visibility among benchmarked funds but doesn't alter the company's fundamental profile. The gene-editing company generates only a few million dollars in annual revenue against hundreds of millions in losses, with value concentrated in its clinical pipeline rather than current operations. Its allogeneic CAR T and in vivo editing programmes face ongoing clinical and regulatory milestones. Whilst index inclusion may support liquidity and trading, it doesn't reduce execution, funding or trial risks. Simply Wall St community members' fair value estimates range from $67.82 to $208.83, reflecting divergent views on the loss-making company's prospects.

CRISPR Therapeutics has experienced significant stock volatility this year as investors grapple with its transition from clinical to commercial stage. The company's gene-editing therapy CASGEVY, developed with Vertex Pharmaceuticals and approved in late 2023 for sickle cell disease, generated only $1.46 million in revenue during Q1 2026, whilst posting a $122.9 million net loss. Commercial adoption faces challenges, as gene-editing treatments require specialised centres, complex preparations and lengthy approval processes. However, CRISPR maintains a strong balance sheet with approximately $2.4 billion in cash and marketable securities. The company's investigational CAR-T therapy CTX112 has attracted attention as a potential "off-the-shelf" treatment that could be produced at scale, lowering costs and shortening treatment timelines compared to traditional personalised therapies.