Bank of Nova Scotia Increases Stake in Vertex Pharmaceuticals

Institutional investor boosts holding in biotech company by 73.9% in Q3

Mar. 17, 2026 at 7:24am

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Bank of Nova Scotia, a major Canadian financial institution, increased its stake in Vertex Pharmaceuticals Incorporated (NASDAQ:VRTX) by 73.9% during the third quarter of 2025, according to a recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm now owns 86,252 shares of the pharmaceutical company's stock, valued at $33.78 million.

Why it matters

Vertex Pharmaceuticals is a leading biotech company focused on developing innovative treatments for serious diseases, particularly cystic fibrosis. The increase in Bank of Nova Scotia's position suggests the institutional investor sees long-term growth potential in the company's pipeline and commercial products.

The details

According to the 13F filing, Bank of Nova Scotia purchased an additional 36,643 shares of Vertex Pharmaceuticals during the third quarter, bringing its total holding to 86,252 shares. This represents a 73.9% increase in the firm's position compared to the prior quarter. Vertex Pharmaceuticals is known for its portfolio of small-molecule CFTR modulators that target the underlying cause of cystic fibrosis rather than just treating symptoms.

  • Bank of Nova Scotia filed the 13F report disclosing the increased stake in Vertex Pharmaceuticals on March 17, 2026.
  • The reported increase in shares occurred during the third quarter of 2025.

The players

Bank of Nova Scotia

A major Canadian financial institution and one of the largest banks in North America.

Vertex Pharmaceuticals Incorporated

A Boston-based biotechnology company focused on the discovery, development, and commercialization of therapies for serious diseases, particularly cystic fibrosis.

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The takeaway

The increased stake by Bank of Nova Scotia in Vertex Pharmaceuticals reflects the institutional investor's confidence in the biotech company's long-term growth potential, particularly in its innovative cystic fibrosis treatments. This move highlights the continued investor interest in Vertex's pipeline and commercial products.