Top Pharmaceutical Companies in India

Over the past five decades, Indian pharma stocks have experienced significant growth in domestic and global markets. From contributing just 5% of the medicine consumption in 1969 (95% share with the global pharma), the share of “Made in India” medicines in the Indian pharma market is now a robust 80% in 2020.

Thus, considered the third-largest in terms of volume and the thirteenth-largest in value, the Indian pharma companies are attracting a new set of investors heavily. Therefore, pharma sector shares are suitable for top-down and bottom-down investing, which are also considered defensive stocks. 

So, let’s understand some of the popular Indian pharma companies or medicine companies to invest in 2024 and what factors are shaping the industry. We will also highlight the best pharma stocks to buy in India for the long term, along with some popular pharma smallcases.

List of Top Pharma Stocks in India to Invest in

The pharma sector has contributed significantly to India’s economic growth as one of the top 10 sectors in reducing the trade deficit and attracting Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). If you are figuring out which pharma stocks you can invest in, then have a look at the list of the top 10 pharmaceutical stocks:

Disclaimer: Please note that the above list is for educational purposes only, and is not recommendatory. Please do your own research or consult your financial advisor before investing.

Note: The data in the list of pharma stocks, with the top pharma share prices, in India is dynamic and subject to real-time changes. This data was derived from Tickertape Stock Screener on the 12th December 2024, using the following criteria:

• Sector: Pharmaceuticals
• 5Y Average Net Profit Margin: Set Lower Limit to 0 (Positive)
• 5Y Average Return on Investment: Sort from Highest to Lowest

🚀 Pro Tip: You can use Tickertape’s Stock Screener to research and evaluate stocks with over 200+ filters and parameters.

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Top Pharma Companies in India: An Overview

Here is the overview of the top 10 pharma stocks in India on the medical share price list. The following stocks are on an educational pharma stocks list curated above of the best pharma stocks to buy now in India 2024:

Glenmark Life Sciences Ltd

Glenmark Life Sciences Ltd, a subsidiary of Glenmark Pharmaceuticals, was established in 2011. The company specialises in manufacturing and supplying Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs) to leading pharmaceutical companies worldwide. The best pharma stock in India has a strong market presence in the API sector, providing high-quality products and services to a global clientele.

As of 12th December 2024, Glenmark Life Sciences Ltd had a market capitalisation of Rs. 12,742.19 cr. and a pharma companies share price of Rs. 1,036.35. The PE ratio stands at 27.06, with a 1-year return of 62.11%. The 5-year average net profit margin is 20.05%, and the 5-year average return on investment is 41.62%. Further, Glenmark Life Sciences recently announced an expansion of its API manufacturing facilities to meet the increasing global demand.

Gujarat Themis Biosyn Ltd

Gujarat Themis Biosyn (GTBL), established in December 1981 as a public limited company, was promoted by Kantilal Shah and the Gujarat Industrial Investment Corporation. Initially, the company focused on producing the antibiotic erythromycin. By 1990, it expanded its licences to manufacture bulk drugs such as rifampicin, cephalexin, griseofulvin, and their formulations. 

As of 12th December 2024, Glenmark Life Sciences Ltd had a market capitalisation of Rs. 3,552.27 cr. and a stock price of Rs. 323.95. The PE ratio stands at 60.06, with a 1-year return of 159.58%. The 5-year average net profit margin is 33.49%, and the 5-year average return on investment is 40.21%.

Blue Jet Healthcare Ltd

Blue Jet Healthcare Limited began as Jet Chemicals Private Limited in Mumbai on 7 December 1968. Specialising in pharmaceutical and healthcare ingredients and intermediates, Blue Jet Healthcare provides niche products for both innovator pharmaceutical companies and multinational generic pharmaceutical firms. 

As of 12th December 2024, Blue Jet Healthcare Ltd had a market capitalisation of Rs. 8,733.98 cr. and a medicine share price of Rs. 500.30. The PE ratio stands at 53.33, with a 1-year return of 55.32%. The 5-year average net profit margin is 24.79%, and the 5-year average return on investment is 34.06%.

GlaxoSmithKline Pharmaceuticals Ltd

GlaxoSmithKline Pharmaceuticals Ltd (GSK India), a subsidiary of GlaxoSmithKline plc, was established in 1924. The company is a leading healthcare provider with a strong presence in pharmaceuticals and vaccines in India. This top pharmaceutical company in India focuses on innovative healthcare solutions and robust R&D initiatives.

As of 12th December 2024, GlaxoSmithKline Pharmaceuticals Ltd had a market capitalisation of Rs. 39,447.04 cr. and a stock price of Rs. 2,304.10. The PE ratio is 66.86, with a 1-year return of 37.41%. The 5-year average net profit margin is 16.88%, and the 5-year average return on investment is 32.08%.

Jeena Sikho Lifecare Ltd

Jeena Sikho Lifecare Limited, a leading ayurvedic healthcare company in India, is headquartered in Zirakpur, Punjab. It was initially incorporated as ‘Jeena Sikho Lifecare Private Limited’ on 29th May 2017, under the Companies Act, 2013. Later, following a Shareholders’ Resolution at an Extraordinary General Meeting on 25th June 2021, the company transitioned to a public limited entity and was renamed ‘Jeena Sikho Lifecare Limited.’

As of 12th December 2024, Jeena Sikho Lifecare Ltd had a market capitalisation of Rs. 9,303.54 cr. and a stock price of Rs. 5,703.35. The PE ratio is 46.29, with a 1-year return of 14.84%. The 5-year average net profit margin is 11.69%, and the 5-year average return on investment is 30.48%.

Procter & Gamble Health Ltd

Procter & Gamble Health Limited (P&G Health) is a prominent pharmaceutical company in India that specialises in manufacturing and marketing over-the-counter products, vitamins, minerals, and supplements to promote a healthy lifestyle. Established in 1967 as one of Merck’s Asian subsidiaries, this top pharma in India became the first Merck Group company to go public in 1981. 

As of 12th December 2024, Jeena Sikho Lifecare Ltd had a market capitalisation of Rs. 5,830.70 cr. and a stock price of Rs. 2,350.45. The PE ratio is 84.25, with a 1-year return of 279.07%. The 5-year average net profit margin is 17.55%, and the 5-year average return on investment is 30.23%.

Abbott India Ltd

Abbott India Ltd. is a prominent multinational pharmaceutical company in India, with its own manufacturing facility in Goa and partnerships with various third-party manufacturers nationwide. Established on 22nd August 1944 as Boots Pure Drug Company (India) Ltd., it adopted its current name on 1st July 2002. In 2004, Abbott India expanded its production to include capsules and nutritional products. 

As of 12th December 2024, Abbott India Ltd had a market capitalisation of Rs. 61,610.76 cr. and a stock price of Rs. 28,748.30. The PE ratio is 51.29, with a 1-year return of 25.95%. The 5-year average net profit margin is 16.50%, and the 5-year average return on investment is 27.53%.

Remedium Lifecare Ltd

Remedium Lifecare Limited, previously known as Roxy Exports Limited, was incorporated on 19th February 1988. The pharma company in share market changed its name on 6th November 2020 to reflect its shift in business activities, as confirmed by a new Certificate of Incorporation issued by the Registrar of Companies. 

As of 12th December 2024, Remedium Lifecare Ltd had a market capitalisation of Rs. 224.99 cr. and a stock price of Rs. 5.37. The PE ratio is 6.87, with a declining 1-year return of -80.76%. The 5-year average net profit margin is 2.53%, and the 5-year average return on investment is 26.39%.

Suven Pharmaceuticals Ltd

Suven Pharmaceuticals Ltd, established in 1989, focuses on contract research and manufacturing services (CRAMS) for global pharmaceutical companies. The company specialises in developing and manufacturing intermediates and APIs. Suven Pharmaceuticals has expanded its manufacturing capacity to meet the growing demand for its CRAMS services.

As of 12th December 2024, Suven Pharmaceuticals Ltd had a market capitalisation of Rs. 32,996.71 cr. and a stock price of Rs. 1,276.35. The PE ratio is 109.89, with a 1-year return of 83.45%. The 5-year average net profit margin is 31.34%, and the 5-year average return on investment is 25.55%.

Supriya Lifescience Ltd

Supriya Lifescience Ltd is a leading Indian pharmaceutical company that has built a strong reputation for producing high-quality Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs). With decades of experience in the pharmaceutical industry, the company has established itself as a trusted global supplier catering to a variety of therapeutic segments.

As of 12th December 2024, Supriya Lifescience Ltd had a market capitalisation of Rs. 6,202.00 cr. and a stock price of Rs. 756.15. The PE ratio is 52.07, with a 1-year return of 173.77%. The 5-year average net profit margin is 24.35%, and the 5-year average return on investment is 24.88%.

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Mitigate Challenges with smallcase

Like any other investment, investing in pharmaceutical shares in India comes with its own challenges. 

However, with the help of financial advisors or investing in trustable platforms like smallcase, you can easily tackle these challenges by doing portfolio investing by creating a demat account online. Let’s learn how. 

• Regulatory Risks: The pharma industry is subject to stringent regulations. However, the pharma stocks in smallcase portfolios (such as Pharma Tracker) have a proven track record of compliance that can mitigate this risk.
• Patent Risks: The expiration of patents for major drugs can lead to increased competition. However, smallcase portfolios that invest in pharma company shares with a strong pipeline of drugs and a focus on R&D can help mitigate this risk.
• Currency Fluctuations: The Indian pharma industry relies heavily on exports, which currency fluctuations can impact. However, pharma smallcase portfolios have a strong presence in domestic and international markets that can help mitigate risks.
• Competition From Generics: The pharma industry is highly competitive, with many established players having a strong brand reputation. However, if you invest in the listed pharma companies in India with high-quality products, you can mitigate the risk of generic competition.

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What are Pharma Stocks in India?

Pharma stocks in India are the stocks of companies that operate in India pharmaceutical industry, which includes the research, development, manufacturing, and distribution of drugs and medicines. The best pharma companies are involved in producing various types of medicines, such as prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, and generic drugs. Some common medications produced by the Indian pharma industry include antibiotics, cardiovascular drugs, painkillers, and anti-inflammatory drugs.

Thus, investing in pharma shares in India, including the best pharma penny stocks in India, might be a lucrative option for investors as the India pharmaceutical industry significantly contributes to the Indian economy. The industry has been growing rapidly in recent years due to several factors such as increasing demand for generic drugs, favourable government policies, and growing healthcare infrastructure. Therefore, investors interested in investing in the Indian pharma industry can consider buying from pharma shares listed companies on the stock exchanges in India. However, investors must do their own research or consult their financial advisor before investing.

Types of Pharma Stocks in India

In India, the pharma sector share list is divided into three categories based on the market capitalisation of the leading pharma companies in India listed on the NSE:

Large-Cap Pharma Stocks

Large-cap pharma stocks in a pharmacy stock list represent the largest pharmaceutical companies in India, with a market capitalisation of more than Rs. 20,000 cr. These top medical companies in India generally have a strong brand presence, diversified product portfolios, and significant R&D capabilities. Investing in these stocks can be attractive due to their stability and established market position. Some examples of large-cap pharma stocks in India include Sun Pharma, Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories, and Cipla.

Mid Cap Pharma Stocks

Mid cap pharma stocks in a medical share list consist of medium-sized pharmaceutical companies with a market capitalisation between Rs. 5,000 and Rs. 20,000 cr. These companies might have a more focused product portfolio and less diversified revenue streams compared to large-cap companies. Investing in mid-cap stocks can offer a balance between growth potential and risk. Examples of mid-cap pharma stocks in India include Torrent Pharma, Alkem Laboratories, and Biocon.

Small Cap Pharma Stocks

Small cap pharma stocks include smaller pharmaceutical companies with a market capitalisation of less than Rs. 5,000 cr. These companies, including pharma penny stocks, often have niche product portfolios and limited R&D capabilities compared to larger companies. Investing in small-cap stocks can be riskier but might provide substantial returns if the companies grow. Examples of small-cap pharma stocks in India include Aarti Drugs, Suven Life Sciences, and Granules India.

COVID 19 Impact: Pharma Shares Evolving Healthcare

The COVID-19 pandemic, declared on March 11, 2020, significantly impacted the pharmaceutical industry globally. The Indian pharmaceutical industry emerged stronger in the post-pandemic world by managing healthcare needs effectively. 

Indian pharma manufacturers export nearly half of their production, both in volume and value, to countries like the US, UK, South Africa, and Russia. This export capacity has established India as a leader in the global generic medicine market, earning it the title of “Pharmacy of the World.” 

India is the third-largest manufacturer of drugs worldwide in terms of production volume, accounting for 10% of the global total. Many Indian pharma companies have also innovated their drug development processes to meet the nation’s healthcare needs effectively.

Budget Allocations for the Healthcare Industry in the Union Budget 2024-25

Here are a few budgetary allocations presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, for the healthcare sector, declared in the Union Budget for 2024:

1. The Health Ministry’s budget increased by 12.9% to Rs 90,958.63 cr. 
2. The Department of Health and Family Welfare’s FY 2024-25 budget is Rs. 87,656.90 cr. This is a 12.93% increase from the revised Rs. 77,624.79 cr. for the previous year. This budget aims to boost health services and infrastructure.
3. They have allocated Rs. 3,301.73 cr. to the Department of Health Research. 
4. Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY) has received Rs. 7,300 cr., higher than the previous allocation of Rs. 6,800 cr. 
5. The National Health Mission (NHM) has been allocated a budget of Rs. 36,000 cr. 
6. The budget for the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has increased from Rs. 2,295.12 cr. to Rs. 2,732.13 cr.
7. The National Tele Mental Health Programme’s budget increased from Rs. 65 cr. to Rs. 90 cr. 
8. The union budget allocated Rs. 18,013.62 cr. for autonomous bodies. 
9. The All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Delhi received an increase from Rs. 4,278 cr. to Rs. 4,523 cr.

What is the Pharma NIFTY Index?

The Pharma NIFTY Index is an index of the National Stock Exchange of India (NSE) that comprises the top 10 pharmaceutical companies listed on the exchange. These top pharma companies India are selected based on market capitalisation, liquidity, and other factors. The index provides a benchmark for the overall performance of the pharmaceutical sector in India. 

When the Pharma NIFTY Index rises, it indicates that the pharmaceutical sector is performing well. Conversely, a decline in the index suggests underperformance. This index is a common indicator used by investors and analysts to track the performance of the Indian pharmaceutical industry.

Why Invest in Pharma Stocks?

Pharmaceutical stocks in India have historically provided stable returns due to growth opportunities in both domestic and export markets. The demand for pharmaceuticals remains robust due to lifestyle changes, an increase in chronic diseases, and heightened awareness of treatment options. 

Companies in this sector are actively pursuing growth strategies, such as expanding production capacities, investing in research and development, and leveraging technology for innovation. 

Considering these factors, investing in pharmaceutical stocks presents an attractive opportunity. However, investors should be cautious and conduct thorough analysis, including assessing company financials, management expertise, R&D efforts, regulatory compliance, and product pipeline.

Features of Pharma Company Stocks in India

Investors eyeing the pharmaceutical sector in India should be aware of distinctive features that characterise pharma company stocks.

• Regulatory Environment: Pharma stocks, including the best low price pharma stocks, are significantly influenced by regulatory dynamics. Stay informed about updates from regulatory bodies like the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Agency (PMDA).
• R&D Pipeline: The Research and Development pipeline of a pharmaceutical company is a critical aspect. Evaluate the company’s investment in developing new drugs and the potential impact on its market position.
• Market Competition: The level of competition within the Indian pharmaceutical market is intense. Best Pharmaceutical Companies in India with a diversified portfolio and effective strategies to navigate market competition may present better resilience.
• Global Presence: Many Indian pharmaceutical companies have a global footprint. Assess the geographical reach of the best pharma company in India, as it can impact revenue streams and vulnerability to international market fluctuations on the penny pharma stocks.
• Patent Expiry: The expiration of patents for key drugs can significantly impact a pharma company’s financials. Stay informed about patent expiry dates to anticipate potential shifts in the market landscape.

Benefits of Investing in Pharma Stocks in India

There are several benefits to investing in pharma stocks, particularly in India, which has a thriving and rapidly growing pharmaceutical industry. Here are some of the key benefits:

• Steady Demand: Pharma stocks are known for their steady demand, as people require medicines regardless of the economic climate. As a result, pharma stocks are considered relatively defensive and can provide investors a stable source of income.
• Strong Growth Potential: The Indian pharma industry is growing rapidly, with the government actively promoting the sector through various initiatives. The industry is expected to grow at 12-14% CAGR providing significant growth potential for investors.
• High Profitability: The pharmaceutical industry tends to have high-profit margins due to the significant investment required for research and development. This high-profit margin might translate into higher returns for investors.
• Dividends: Many pharmaceutical companies have a strong track record of paying dividends to shareholders. This can provide a source of passive income for investors.

Risks of Investing in Pharma Stocks in India

Investing always involves risk, and pharmaceutical stocks are no different. Understanding key risk factors is crucial when selecting the best pharma stocks India.

Regulatory Environment

The pharmaceutical industry operates under heavy regulations, and changes in government policies, especially regarding price controls and exports, can directly affect the revenues of even the best stock in pharma sector. Investors should monitor overall healthcare policies in markets where generic pharmaceutical companies focus on exports to gauge potential impacts on future demand and market share.

US Market

For many major pharmaceutical companies, the US market is pivotal for selling generic drugs. Investors in these companies need to be vigilant about regulatory risks, especially considering the historical pricing pressure in the US market. Recent indications suggest a potential easing of pricing pressure on the best pharma stocks in India for long-term, but ongoing scrutiny from the United States Food and Drug Administration on pharma companies in India’s manufacturing units poses a risk, with the issuance of warning letters being a significant negative factor even in the case of the best medicine company in India.

Currency Fluctuations and Operational Risks

The export-oriented nature of the Indian pharma industry in India makes it susceptible to currency fluctuations, directly impacting revenues and the bottom line. Additional risks include variations in raw material and packaging costs, higher freight rates, and disruptions in the supply chain.

How to Select the Best Pharma Stocks for Investing?

Selecting the best pharmaceutical company in India to invest in from pharma sector stocks lists requires careful analysis and consideration of various factors. Here are some steps you might take to potentially identify the top pharma company in India:

Assess Financial Health

You should examine the financial health of pharmaceutical companies by reviewing their earnings reports, debt levels, and cash flow. A company with stable earnings, manageable debt, and strong cash flow typically indicates financial robustness and stability. This analysis can help you identify top pharma shares in India with sound financial foundations.

Evaluate Drug Pipeline

It’s important to scrutinise the company’s pipeline of drugs. A diverse and promising pipeline indicates resilience in the face of industry changes and the potential for future growth. Drug companies with a strong pipeline are often well-positioned to capitalise on new market opportunities, making them attractive investments.

Consider Regulatory Environment

Understanding the regulatory landscape in which the company operates is crucial. Approvals and compliance are critical factors influencing the success of pharmaceutical companies. Staying informed about the regulatory environment can help you anticipate potential challenges and opportunities for the company.

Stay Informed on Industry Trends

Keeping abreast of industry trends, breakthroughs, and global healthcare dynamics can significantly impact your investment decisions. Market competition and geopolitical factors play a major role in the pharmaceutical sector, and understanding these trends can provide you with valuable insights on medicine stock lists.

Analyse Historical Performance

You should dive into the historical performance of the stocks in the list of pharmaceutical companies in India under consideration. Assess past trends, volatility, and how stocks have responded to market shifts. This data provides insights into a stock’s resilience and growth potential, helping you gauge which stocks may perform well in the future.

Who Should Invest in Pharma Stocks?

Investing in pharmaceutical stocks can be attractive for various types of investors:

Long-Term Investors

The best pharma stocks for long term often offer stability and long-term growth potential. If you have a long-term investment horizon, you can benefit from the consistent demand for healthcare products and the potential for research and development to drive future growth.

Income-Oriented Investors

Many pharmaceutical companies have a history of distributing dividends to their shareholders. If you are an income-focused investor seeking a regular stream of dividend income, pharmaceutical stocks might be appealing.

Risk-Averse Investors

Relative to some other sectors, pharmaceuticals tend to experience less volatility. If you prioritise stability and lower risk, you might consider including pharmaceutical stocks, or medicine stocks, in your portfolio.

Value Investors

Value investors seek out the best pharma shares to buy that the market may undervalue. The pharmaceutical industry often includes companies with strong fundamentals that can be temporarily undervalued, creating opportunities for value investors.

Healthcare Sector Enthusiasts

If you have a strong interest in the healthcare sector, understand its dynamics, and believe in its long-term growth prospects, you may find pharmaceutical stocks particularly appealing.

As always, you should do your own research and/or consult your financial advisor before investing. Thorough analysis and professional guidance can help ensure that your investment choices align with your financial goals and risk tolerance.

Factors Affecting Investments in Pharma Stocks

Factors Impacting Pharmaceuticals Sector Stocks are:

• Success of Clinical Trials and Drug Pipeline: The outcomes of clinical trials heavily influence stock performance, serving as indicators of potential revenue growth.
• Approvals and Regulatory Landscape: Regulatory processes and approvals play a crucial role in shaping drug commercialisation timelines, thereby affecting stock prices.
• Pricing Pressures and Healthcare Policies: Changes in pricing regulations, reimbursement policies, and healthcare cost reduction efforts have significant implications for sector stock performance.
• Patent Expirations and Generic Competition: Patents’ expiration and generic competition’s emergence affect company profitability and stock performance.
• Market and Economic Dynamics: Market conditions, economic indicators such as GDP growth, interest rates, inflation, and investor sentiment all impact stock prices within the pharmaceutical sector.

Factors to Consider Before Investing in Pharma Companies

Before investing in pharma stocks, it’s important to consider several key factors beyond just pharma company share prices. Here are some essential considerations:

Domestic and Global Demand

The demand for pharmaceuticals is influenced by various factors, such as an ageing population, increasing healthcare spending, and the prevalence of diseases. To determine if the industry is poised for growth, you should analyse both current and future demand for pharmaceuticals in India and globally. This includes understanding the demographic trends and healthcare needs that drive the market.

Research and Development Investments

The pharmaceutical industry relies heavily on research and development (R&D) to develop new drugs and treatments. It’s crucial to evaluate a company’s R&D investments and pipeline to determine if they are investing in the right areas. A strong pipeline of potential new products indicates a company’s commitment to innovation and future growth.

Regulatory Environment and Government Policies

The pharmaceutical industry is highly regulated, and government policies can significantly impact a company’s ability to bring new products to market. It’s important to stay updated on regulatory changes and procedures affecting the industry and specific companies. Understanding the regulatory landscape can help you anticipate challenges and opportunities within the sector.

Intellectual Property Rights and Patent Expirations

Patents provide big and small pharma companies in India with exclusive rights to manufacture and sell a drug for a set period. Evaluating a company’s patent portfolio and the timing of patent expirations is essential to determine the potential impact on revenue. Patent expirations can lead to increased competition from generic drugs, affecting a company’s market share and profitability.

Competition and Mergers and Acquisitions

The pharmaceutical industry is highly competitive, and companies often engage in mergers and acquisitions to strengthen their market position. Evaluating a company’s competitive landscape, growth strategies, and recent mergers or acquisitions can provide insights into its potential for long-term success. Understanding how a company positions itself in the market and its annual growth trends can help you make informed investment decisions.

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To Wrap It Up…

In conclusion, the Indian stock market has demonstrated resilience and growth potential in 2023. As we move further into the year, several pharma companies have garnered investor interest and shown promising performance. Investing in popular stocks through smallcase could be an effective way for investors to capitalise on growth opportunities. With Pharma Tracker smallcase, you can efficiently track and invest in pharma companies listed in NSE.

Frequently Asked Questions on Pharma Stocks