Illumina Execs Make Rare Buys Amid DRAGEN v4.4 Release

Illumina Inc. (ILMN:US) is a global leader in DNA sequencing and array-based technologies, serving researchers and clinical labs around the world. With a market capitalization of more than $12 billion, the company plays a central role in advancing genomics and precision medicine. Illumina's tools are widely used in cancer research, genetic disease studies, and large-scale population genomics projects.

A First in Illumina’s History: Insiders Buy at Market Price

In a rare move for Illumina, top executives have stepped in to buy company stock on the open market—the first such insider purchases at market price in the company’s history.

• CEO Jacob Thaysen purchased a total of 12,350 shares across two days (May 12–13), spending approximately $998,674.

• CFO Ankur Dhingra bought 6,100 shares on May 12, investing $495,381.

This surge in insider buying stands out not just for its timing, but for its rarity. Illumina insiders have historically been absent from the buy-side of their own stock — making these transactions especially noteworthy.

Insiders With Unmatched Visibility

These buys aren’t coming from passive executives. CEO Jacob Thaysen and CFO Ankur Dhingra bring deep operational and strategic experience in life sciences and diagnostics — both previously held key leadership roles at Agilent. Thaysen also holds a PhD in physics and has led major R&D and commercial efforts across the sector. Dhingra has over two decades in financial leadership, including CFO roles at multiple biotech firms.

With their insider vantage point and industry expertise, their open-market stock purchases — totaling nearly $1 million — are a powerful vote of confidence.

Supporting Developments: Product Launch and Financials

These insider trades come just as Illumina announced a major product upgrade: the release of DRAGEN version 4.4, its most advanced software for genomic analysis. DRAGEN v4.4 includes new out-of-the-box oncology applications and supports Illumina's expanded multiomics assay portfolio. With a 30% improvement in germline structural variant calling accuracy, the software strengthens Illumina’s position in clinical oncology and population genomics.

On the financial front, Illumina recently reported Q1 FY25 results:

• GAAP EPS of $0.82

• Revenue of $1.04 billion

• Free cash flow of $208 million

However, the company tempered full-year guidance, citing macro headwinds and China-related challenges. FY25 revenue is now expected to decline 1–3% year-over-year on a constant currency basis, down from prior growth expectations. Operating margins were also revised slightly lower due to tariff-related costs.

Despite the cautious outlook, Illumina’s core business remains strong, and these insider purchases suggest that top executives see their buy prices — around $81 per share — as an attractive long-term entry point.