NEW YORK, NY--(Marketwire -03/22/12)- In recent years, smaller biotechnology companies have received less funding from venture capitalists than in years past. According to the Biotechnology Industry Organization (BIO), roughly 61 percent of venture capitalists cite the FDA's challenging approval process as having the largest impact on their investment decisions. Five Star Equities examines the outlook for companies in the Biotechnology industry and provides equity research on Avanir Pharmaceuticals Inc. (NASDAQ: AVNR - News) and Zalicus Inc. (NASDAQ: ZLCS - News). Access to the full company reports can be found at: http://www.fivestarequities.com/AVNR http://www.fivestarequities.com/ZLCS

A recent legislation, dubbed the TREAT Act, introduced by U.S. Sen. Kay Hagan, D-N.C., accelerates the review and approval process for medicines that treat an unmet medical need or significantly advance the standard of care for people suffering from deadly diseases. The bill could bring a boost to smaller biotech firms that often struggle to bring drugs to market. But the legislation, which is now in committee, will likely meet resistance from the Food and Drug Administration.

Five Star Equities releases regular market updates on the biotechnology industry so investors can stay ahead of the crowd and make the best investment decisions to maximize their returns. Take a few minutes to register with us free at http://www.fivestarequities.com and get exclusive access to our numerous stock reports and industry newsletters.

According to the Biotechnology Industry Organization (BIO), 61 percent of venture capitalists cite FDA regulatory challenges as having the highest impact on their investment decisions. Venture capitalists invested a total of $3.92 billion last year in biotechs of all stages. This figure was well below the $6.17 billion peak in 2007, according to VentureSource. And shares in biotechs that went public last year averaged 29% less than their expected midpoint offering price, according to investment bank Needham & Co.

Last year, 98 biotechs received venture funding for the first time, down from 141 in 2007, a MoneyTree report from PricewaterhouseCoopers said. The start-ups raised a total of $842 million in initial financings in 2011, down 19% from the 2007 total.

Five Star Equities provides Market Research focused on equities that offer growth opportunities, value, and strong potential return. We strive to provide the most up-to-date market activities. We constantly create research reports and newsletters for our members. Five Star Equities has not been compensated by any of the above-mentioned companies. We act as an independent research portal and are aware that all investment entails inherent risks. Please view the full disclaimer at: http://www.fivestarequities.com/disclaimer

Visit link:
TREAT Act Poised to Revolutionize the Biotechnology Industry