Natera CEO Steven Leonard Sells Over $645K in Company Stock

In a recent transaction, Steven Leonard, the CEO and President of Natera, Inc., a leader in personalized genetic testing and diagnostics, sold a significant amount of company stock. On September 16, Leonard’s shares were sold during a series of transactions that netted over $645,000.

The sales included various blocks of shares at different price points, with weighted average prices ranging from approximately $126.66 to $130.93 per share. Specifically, some shares were sold for prices between $126.35 and $126.84, others between $127.41 and $128.40, additional blocks between $128.46 and $129.44, and more shares between $129.64 and $130.35. The final batch was sold within the range of $130.83 to $131.18. These transactions were carried out under a Rule 10b5-1 trading plan, which Leonard adopted on December 11, 2023.

The shares sold by Leonard indicate a decrease in his direct ownership, though the exact percentage of his remaining stake was not specified in the filing. After these transactions, he still retains a substantial number of shares, suggesting his continued interest in the company’s performance.

Insider sales are often monitored by investors, as they can provide insights into executives’ views on the company’s valuation and future outlook. However, it’s essential to remember that such transactions can stem from various personal financial strategies and do not necessarily reflect changes in the company’s fundamentals.

Natera has established itself at the forefront of genetic testing, offering an array of services that include prenatal screening, cancer risk assessments, and organ transplant monitoring. The company’s dedication to advancing health care through genetic testing is central to its business strategy.

Details regarding these transactions are publicly accessible in the most recent SEC filings, ensuring transparency for investors and the wider market.

In other news, Natera has experienced a revenue surge, reporting a 12% sequential increase from the first quarter and a noteworthy 58% year-over-year growth. The company has raised its full-year revenue guidance to around $1.5 billion, with an expected gross margin of 55%. These improvements align with a record number of test volumes and an increase in average selling prices.

In anticipation of new results from the Galaxy study, a leading firm maintains a positive outlook on Natera, reiterating an Overweight rating and a target price of $150. The firm recognizes Natera’s substantial market lead, especially with its cancer test, Signatera.

Other firms, including TD Cowen and Canaccord Genuity, have also upheld their Buy ratings on Natera shares, expressing optimism following presentations at a significant medical conference. Notably, Natera’s Renasight test has earned endorsement from a prominent kidney foundation for chronic kidney disease testing.

These developments illustrate Natera’s robust market position and potential for ongoing growth.

Furthermore, Natera shows significant market activity, catching investor attention with impressive performance metrics. The company’s market capitalization stands at approximately $15.74 billion, reflecting its considerable presence in the genetic testing sector. Despite lacking profitability over the past twelve months, indicated by a negative P/E ratio, its revenue growth has been striking, showcasing a 46.13% increase over the past year and a quarterly growth rate of 58.13% during the recent quarter.

Natera’s stock price has experienced considerable volatility, which may be of interest to investors looking for short-term trading opportunities or those worried about market stability. Although analysts have revised earnings estimates upward for the near term, profitability this year does not appear likely. This combination of rapid revenue growth amid anticipated lack of profitability suggests a speculative investment with potential for future growth.

For more in-depth analysis and insights, Natera has a number of resources available that cover financial health and market position, offering valuable context for investors.

This article was generated with the support of AI and reviewed by an editor.