Autolus Therapeutics (NASDAQ:AUTL) shares surged 5.35% in pre-market trading following strategic upgrade from Needham & Co.

Autolus Therapeutics (NASDAQ:AUTL) shares surged 5.35% in pre-market trading on December 31, 2025, signaling renewed investor confidence following a strategic upgrade from Needham & Co. The firm lifted its price target to $11 from $10 while maintaining a Buy rating, positioning the biotech as a top stock pick for 2026.

Needham's analysts highlighted robust performance from Aucatzyl, which generated $76 million in sales, though they acknowledged lingering skepticism about the company's path to profitability. The firm countered these concerns by projecting breakeven status by 2028 based on Aucatzyl's revenue alone, citing expanding market opportunities from the FELIX study and obe-cel data in relapsed/refractory acute lymphoblastic leukemia.

Analysts also emphasized untapped value in obe-cel's potential application for lupus nephritis, which remains underappreciated at current valuation levels. With key clinical updates expected in the first half of 2026, the firm argues the stock offers an attractive risk-reward profile amid a broader industry shift toward cell therapy innovation.

Autolus Therapeutics continues to draw attention due to its growing pipeline and the recent strategic guidance from Needham & Co. Investors are closely watching the company's ability to translate clinical progress into commercial success. The current stock price reflects optimism about future revenue growth, but also underscores the risks associated with long-term projections in a competitive field. Market participants are advised to monitor upcoming clinical milestones and regulatory developments, which may influence both investor sentiment and share valuation.