One of the many sectors that investors may consider is the biotechnology field. As interesting as it may sound, it is risky to invest in company stocks in this area as historically, this has been proven. If it pays off, then the rewards are maximum but if it doesn’t, then it isn’t a surprise since in most cases, biotechnology products have struggled acceptance in the market.
However, new tax reforms that cut corporate tax payments from 35% to 21% will drive up more mergers and acquisitions, which tend to positively impact the share prices of these companies. Fortunately, there are many such biotech companies, like the ones mentioned below, who have consistently performed and are estimated to grow in the second half of the year.
- CRISPR Therapeutics AG
Also known as CRSP in the NASDAQ Stock Exchange, this Switzerland-based company has taken over the American market by storm within just five years of its foundation. Annually, it has a staggering growth of 213.4%. The gene editing firm has seen loss estimates fall to a mere 9% for 2019 over the last month or so. At the moment, this seems to the best biotech stock to buy.
- Aeglea Biotherapeutics Inc.
Based out of Texas, this firm was founded in 2013 and its shares have registered 88.9% returns this year, having an annual growth rate of 15.3%. Famous for its human enzyme research that may cure rare genetic diseases as well as cancer, it is bound to have fewer loss estimates, which come up to a mere 7.5% for the next year.
- Athersys, Inc.
Known as ATHX in NASDAQ terms, this is the best biotech stock to buy if one is looking for maximum reliability and reward at the same time. It has made a reputation for itself in inventing therapies for regenerative medicine since 1995. The Ohio-based firm is expected to record a 426.4% growth in sales in 2018. Its shares have seen 35.9% returns this year. Its loss estimates are a little on the higher side, coming up to 19.6% for 2019.
- Ligand Pharmaceuticals Inc.
Based out of San Diego, it is known as LGND in NASDAQ stocks. It is known for having economic rights i.e. licensing of some of the most important medicines in the world. As a result, its shares have posted 39.8% returns in 2018 and sales have grown 37.7% as well. Its loss estimates are just 8% for 2019.
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Ways to get student loan forgiveness
Read moreStudent loans pose as a huge burden for most Americans pursuing their higher education. You can obtain relief from this financial stress if you can qualify for a federal student loan forgiveness. You can choose four programs to rule out or diminish your federal student loan balance based on the job or repayment plan that you choose. These are listed below.
Teacher Loan Forgiveness
In the case of teacher Loan Forgiveness, your loan balance can be canceled or reduced in just five years. If you have a long term teaching career plan, you can use both the Public Service Loan Forgiveness and Teacher Loan forgiveness for 15 years. Only direct loans and Stafford loans are eligible. Your chances of qualifying for the Teacher Loan Forgiveness is heightened if you have taught or plan to teach full time for five years in low-income public schools with a loan balance of $17500 or less. However, this is valid only for teachers who have taken a loan post-October 1st, 1998.
Public Service Loan Forgiveness
Your direct federal loans can be forgiven if you have worked or plan to work for the government or non-profit organizations for a minimum period of 10 years. You will be eligible for a Public Service Loan Forgiveness if you have repaid the full monthly loan installment on-time using an income-driven repayment plan. This program was kick-started in October 20017 and hence only those who have made all the 120 repayments since the date can qualify for a Public Service Loan Forgiveness.
Perkins Loan Cancellation
Up to 100% of a borrower’s Federal Perkins Loans are forgiven if they work or have worked in a public service job for at least five years. Public school teachers, police offers, nurses, firefighters are individuals who regularly qualify for this student loan forgiveness.
Income-driven repayment
You are eligible for a student loan forgiveness if you adopt an income-driven repayment plan such as Pay As You Earn (PAYE) or Revised Pay As You Earn.
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7 common side effects of insufficient water intake
Read moreOver two-thirds of the human body is made up of water in different forms. This lifesaving liquid is essential for maintaining a delicate balance of fluids for circulation. Water also helps the body flush out toxins to boost immunity. Any fluids that the body loses during the day must be replenished with water—at least 8 glasses of it per day. This is because not drinking enough water can lead to the following issues:
Dry skin
Premature aging is one of the known side effects of insufficient water consumption. Water is necessary for the body to produce collagen and elastin, two of the most vital compounds that make up skin cells and help maintain overall health. When not hydrated enough, the skin loses its sheen, texture, and softness as it dries out. Even moisturizing may not help restore the texture once the damage is done. Drinking the recommended amount of water helps maintain skin health and keeps it supple. Hydration mainly helps fight three major signs of skin damage: breakouts, dryness, and wrinkles.Fatigue
The circulatory system needs water to maintain the blood flow and consistency necessary for optimal blood pressure. Reducing daily water intake affects this pressure and blood flow. Low blood pressure, in turn, makes it difficult for the body to get the fresh oxygen absorbed by the lungs. This affects organ health and causes fatigue, as the body desperately tries to preserve the energy and forces multiple organs to function at a reduced capacity. This also impacts overall metabolic activities that govern vital functions and boost immunity, as without water to flush out toxins from the body, one is also at an increased risk of illnesses.Poor oral hygiene
Dehydration causes the mouth to dry out as the body is unable to produce the saliva required for maintaining oral hygiene. Lack of saliva makes it easy for bacteria to grow and multiply rapidly in the crevices of the teeth and gums. These lingering bacteria increase the risk of oral problems like bad breath, cavities, and teeth yellowing. Bacteria can also invade the gums and trigger infections that affect the roots of molars requiring treatment. All these problems can be easily avoided by drinking water regularly. Of course, the level of water intake can vary from person to person, but if one experiences dry mouth, it could be the first sign of dehydration. So, one should not ignore warning signs.Constipation and urine infections
Water is also critical for regulating bowel movements. Without sufficient water, the digestive tract will be unable to allow the smooth movement of waste, resulting in constipation. Here, the hardening of stool increases the risk of internal injuries in the large intestine and colon, along with the discomfort that constipation causes. The kidneys also need water to purify the blood and get rid of toxins through urination. When one does not have enough fluid intake, the toxins in the urine can irritate the urinary tract and increase the risk of infection here.Throbbing headaches
The brain cells are made up of nearly 70% water, and major brain functions rely on a delicate balance of electrolytes found in water. Dehydration can cause headaches to develop and persist, making one experience throbbing pain. Without water, the blood becomes thicker, leading to a drop in blood pressure and an inability to properly supply fresh oxygen to the brain. This can lead to confusion and dizziness as the brain struggles to function normally. Severe dehydration also leads to impaired focus, judgment, and mood swings that affect the daily routine.Overheating
The body needs to maintain a proper core temperature at all times. Sweating is one of the ways in which the body cools down without relying on external cooling. Here, sweat glands release water from the skin pores in an effort to lower the body temperature externally. Not having enough water during the day triggers a fluid deficiency making the glands unable to produce sweat naturally. This triggers a chain reaction, causing an alarming increase in body temperature. So, being dehydrated for a long period increases the risk of developing fever-like symptoms brought on by an irregular change in body temperature.Fluid imbalance
Cells and tissue that make up vital organs require a mix of electrolytes and chemicals to control electrical impulses. Even a slight reduction in daily water intake can trigger sensory discomfort that impacts the taste and important functions regulated by the brain. Dehydration also causes the blood pressure to drop, meaning vital organs are not receiving fresh oxygen via circulation. Further, kidneys rely on water to help the body flush out all toxins. So, a side effect of insufficient water consumption increases risk of crystals and stones forming in the kidneys. A fluid imbalance further increases the risk of muscle cramps as there is not enough blood circulating within the body to support physical activity.Drinking enough water also helps overcome hunger pangs. It also prevents triggering an imbalance in blood sugar levels, as being hydrated lowers the risk of overeating, helping overcome sugar cravings to supplement low energy levels. Further, getting enough water promotes better digestion and improves metabolism to support vital body functions.