Why did the CSL share price go backwards in the March quarter?

Here's how CSL performed over the first quarter of 2022.

| More on:

You’re reading a free article with opinions that may differ from The Motley Fool’s Premium Investing Services. Become a Motley Fool member today to get instant access to our top analyst recommendations, in-depth research, investing resources, and more. Learn More

Key points
  • The CSL share price slipped 7.7% in the first quarter of 2022, closing March at $270.05
  • That's despite only seemingly good news having been released by the company
  • Over the three-month period, CSL released its half-year results and updated the market on its acquisition of Vifor Pharma

The CSL Limited (ASX: CSL) share price struggled through the March quarter despite plenty of good news being released by the company.

In fact, the biotechnology giant's stock tumbled 7.76% last quarter, ending the period trading at $270.05.

For comparison, the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) ended the quarter trading relatively flat with where it started, recording a gain of just 0.74%.

So, what moved the CSL share price over the three months ended 31 March? Let's take a look.

A medical researcher rests his forehead on his fist with a dejected look on his face while sitting behind a scientific microscope with another researcher's hand on his shoulder, as if giving comfort.

Image source: Getty Images

What happened to the CSL share price last quarter?

The CSL share price had some notable ups and downs over the course of the March quarter.

The first came with the announcement of the completion of CSL's share purchase plan on 14 February.

The share purchase plan – first announced in December – raised $750 million for CSL's acquisition of Vifor Pharma.

The company received applications of $942.7 million for the capital raise, which offered new shares in the company for $253.57 apiece. As a result, it had to scale the offer back.

However, as The Motley Fool Australia's James Mickleboro reported, the company was hit with a negative note from S&P Global Ratings that same day.

All in all, the CSL share price fell 1.99% on 14 February. Fortunately, it was soon boosted by the release of the company's half-year results.

Over the six months ended 31 December, CSL's revenue rose 5.3%, while its net profit after tax (NPAT) slipped 2.8%. The company's dividend stayed at US$1.04 per share.

However, its bullish view on plasma collections and its financial year 2022 earnings likely helped lift the CSL share price.

It gained 8.51% on the day of its earnings' release and a further 5.05% the following day.

The final piece of price-sensitive news released by the company last quarter dropped after the market closed on 3 March.

Then, CSL announced 74% of Vifor Pharma's shares were tendered under a public tender offer.

That was slightly less than the company's goal of 80%. Nevertheless, CSL said it would waive its acceptance rate condition and declare the offer successful.

Following the tender offer, CSL commenced a tender period for subsequent acceptance of the offer. As a result, the acquisition was on track to be finished by the middle of 2022.

The CSL share price gained just 0.31% on the news.

What else might have driven CSL's stock last quarter?

That's all the price-sensitive news released by CSL in the March quarter. However, there were a few more happenings that might have helped boost market sentiment toward its shares.

The company reportedly ditched efforts to create an antiviral treatment for COVID-19 in January. It will instead be focusing its $1 billion-a-year research program on other projects.

Additionally, CSL's influenza vaccine was granted new approvals by regulators in March. As a result, it can now be administered to children above the age of two.

Motley Fool contributor Brooke Cooper has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia's parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. owns and has recommended CSL Ltd. The Motley Fool Australia has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Bruce Jackson.

More on Healthcare Shares

Shot of a young scientist using a digital tablet while working in a lab.
Healthcare Shares

PolyNovo FY26 earnings: Record revenue and cash flow

PolyNovo posts record group revenue, robust cash flow, and surging commercial sales for FY26, with a positive outlook for further…

Read more »

A man rests his chin in his hands, pondering what is the answer?
Healthcare Shares

Down 55% in a year: Do brokers still rate CSL shares as a buy?

Is there any sign of a turnaround coming?

Read more »

Stethoscope with a piggy bank in the middle.
Healthcare Shares

3 reasons why this ASX healthcare share price is a buy

This ASX healthcare share has a very positive outlook.

Read more »

An older woman tries to listen by cupping her ear.
Healthcare Shares

How many Cochlear shares do I need to buy for $10,000 of passive income?

The dividend maths on this fallen ASX healthcare heavyweight.

Read more »

Shot of a scientist using a computer while conducting research in a laboratory.
Broker Notes

Are Telix shares a buy, hold or sell following results?

This exciting healthcare stock is tipped to keep rising.

Read more »

A group of people in a corporate setting do a collective high five.
Healthcare Shares

Up 53%, here's why this ASX All Ords healthcare share is tipped for more outperformance

A leading fund manager forecasts more outperformance from this surging ASX healthcare share.

Read more »

Six smiling health workers pose for a selfie.
Healthcare Shares

Up 79% since February, why are Telix shares jumping higher again on Tuesday?

Investors are piling into Telix shares in Tuesday’s slumping market. But why?

Read more »

Shot of a young scientist using a digital tablet while working in a lab.
Healthcare Shares

Top 3 ASX healthcare stocks to watch

Three beaten-down ASX healthcare stocks staging a strong comeback.

Read more »