Why this cheap ASX 200 stock could rise 80%

Bell Potter thinks this stock could be destined to surge.

| 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

The Australian share market has traditionally delivered a return in the region of 10% per annum.

While that is a fantastic return, it pales in comparison to the potential return on offer with the ASX 200 stock in this article.

That's because Bell Potter believes this stock is dirt cheap and could be destined to rocket from current levels.

A young man punches the air in delight as he reacts to great news on his mobile phone.

Image source: Getty Images

Which ASX 200 stock?

The stock that Bell Potter is bullish on is Neuren Pharmaceuticals Ltd (ASX: NEU).

It is a biotechnology company with two novel drug assets. The most advanced is Daybue (trofinetide), which has been licensed to Acadia (NASDAQ: ACAD) for commercialisation.

Neuren's second asset, NNZ-2591, is under development for multiple rare diseases, the most advanced of which is Phelan McDermid syndrome.

The ASX 200 stock is currently conducting a Phase 3 trial in Phelan McDermid syndrome and has conducted Phase 2 trials in three other rare neurological conditions.

What is the broker saying?

Bell Potter was pleased with the ASX 200 stock's performance in FY 2025, highlighting that it is profitable from its existing royalty stream alone. It said:

The FY25 result demonstrated NEU remains comfortably profitable based on the existing royalty stream from Daybue more than offsetting R&D spend on the company's second asset, NNZ-2591. Royalty revenue of $64.6m (+15%) plus interest income of $12.2m was well above opex of $42.6m, resulting in NPAT of $30.4m. Cash balance is a mighty $296m as at 31-Dec-2025 with no debt. This is after the $50m buyback over the last ~15 months, which NEU announced will resume from 2nd of March.

Should you invest?

According to the note, the broker has reaffirmed its buy rating and $22.00 price target on the company's shares.

Based on its current share price of $12.21, this implies potential upside of 80% for investors over the next 12 months.

Commenting on its recommendation, the broker said:

We have increased our Daybue licensing income forecast but are still below Acadia's guidance range. While the recent EU approval setback clouded NEU's near-term catalyst, the company's balance sheet remains impeccable and will continue to be supplemented by ongoing royalties and possible milestones.

The biggest upside opportunity still lies in the company's second asset, NNZ-2591, for which the Phase 3 trial in Phelan McDermid syndrome is now recruiting. Results from the Phase 3 trial are still ~18 months away but represent the key inflection opportunity for NEU. We maintain our BUY recommendation and make no change to our $22.00 PT.

Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia's parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. 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 Scott Phillips.

More on Broker Notes

Happy young couple riding a motorbike together.
Broker Notes

7 ASX 200 shares with reaffirmed buy ratings this week

Brokers retained a positive view on Santos, Zip, AMP, and other shares this week. 

Read more »

Sad man sitting at desk and grabbing his head as he looks at a laptop.
Broker Notes

Downgrade alert! 5 ASX 200 shares downgraded by experts this week

Brokers reduced their ratings on Wisetech, Harvey Norman, Ansell, and other stocks this week. 

Read more »

Woman holding several shopping bags.
Broker Notes

ASX retail shares are down 13% in 2026. Here's what Morgan Stanley is worried about

The sector has fallen hard, and concerns remain.

Read more »

Man looking at digital holograms of graphs, charts, and data.
Broker Notes

Forget Xero shares! Broker tips this top ASX tech stock for 24% gains

This ASX tech stock has rocketed 143% in a year, and a leading broker forecasts another 24% of gains to…

Read more »

Young successful engineer, with blueprints, notepad, and digital tablet, observing the project implementation on construction site and in mine.
Broker Notes

This ASX nickel miner could jump 57%, Macquarie says

A resumption of dividends could also be on the cards.

Read more »

Business people discussing project on digital tablet.
Broker Notes

Buy, hold, sell: James Hardie, REA Group, and Ramelius shares

Analysts have given their verdict on these shares.

Read more »

Small kid giving a thumbs up.
Broker Notes

2 ASX 200 stocks that Morgans just upgraded

These stocks have between 15% and 20% upside.

Read more »

A little girl with red hair runs excitedly with a rocket strapped to her back, trying to launch.
Broker Notes

6 ASX 200 shares boosted by brokers this week

Brokers have increased their ratings on CSL, NAB, Ramsay Health Care, and others this week. 

Read more »