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Rapid Dose Therapeutics (RDTCF) extended its agreement with an international partner to evaluate its NicStrip™ oral thin film nicotine delivery system. The seven-month extension is valued at $1.8M CAD. RDT filed for Health Canada approval for NicStrip™ in multiple dosages and initiated a clinical study comparing it to traditional cigarettes. Two patent applications were filed covering dissolvable and non-dissolvable formats. NicStrip™ targets adult consumers seeking smoke-free alternatives. Market trends show significant growth in nicotine pouches and other modern oral nicotine products.

Summit Therapeutics plans a Q4 2025 BLA submission for ivonescimab plus chemotherapy in EGFR-mutated NSCLC based on positive Phase III HARMONi trial results. A new Phase III CRC study (HARMONi-GI3) will begin, with more Phase III trials planned. HARMONi showed a 48% reduction in disease progression risk in NSCLC and the HARMONi-6 study in China demonstrated a 40% reduction in risk in squamous NSCLC compared to tislelizumab plus chemotherapy. The HARMONi-3 study will analyze squamous and non-squamous NSCLC cohorts separately.

Arvinas’ VERITAC-2 trial data, presented at ESMO 2025, showed vepdegestrant significantly delayed deterioration in quality of life, pain, and functionality compared to fulvestrant in ESR1-mutated ER+/HER2- advanced breast cancer patients. The trial enrolled 624 patients, with 270 harboring ESR1 mutations. Progression-free survival improved statistically, and the market awaits overall survival data, the key secondary endpoint. Vepdegestrant is a PROTAC ER degrader being co-developed with Pfizer and has received FDA Fast Track designation.

The STELLAR-303 phase 3 trial evaluated zanzalintinib plus atezolizumab versus regorafenib in previously treated metastatic colorectal cancer. The combination significantly improved median overall survival (10.9 vs. 9.4 months) and reduced the risk of death by 20% in the ITT population. Consistent benefits were observed across subgroups. Exelixis plans to submit a new drug application for zanzalintinib in the U.S. in 2025, potentially offering a new chemotherapy-free option for patients. The safety profile was consistent with prior observations.

Kyndryl’s 2025 Readiness Report, based on a survey of 3,700 leaders, reveals that while AI investments are yielding increased ROI, scaling AI remains a challenge. Many organizations struggle with outdated IT infrastructure, skills gaps, and a complex regulatory landscape. Despite confidence in tools and processes, foundational tech often hinders innovation. Geopolitical pressures also force cloud strategy reevaluation. Companies are increasing AI spending, prioritizing cybersecurity, and recognizing the need to address talent and culture to fully realize AI’s potential.

Mesoblast (MESO) reported Q1 FY2026 results with cell therapy revenue of $20.6M, up from $12.9M sequentially. Ryoncil gross sales rose 66% to $21.9M; net sales increased 69% to $19.1M after adjustments. A permanent Ryoncil J-code (J3402) became active 10/1/25 and federal Medicaid coverage is mandatory from 7/1/25. The company held $145M cash and secured convertible note agreements for up to $50M (subject to approval). They onboarded 40 transplant centers with coverage over 260M lives.

Faraday Future (FFAI) announced on Oct 19, 2025, a procurement agreement for FX Super One parts, enabling pilot builds and validation, targeting year-end vehicle production. The FX Super One incorporates technology from the FF 91. Launch in the Middle East is scheduled for Oct 28. Q3 financial reporting has begun. Mass production depends on securing agreements, funding, and permits, with localization increasing costs.

United States Antimony Corporation (USAC) proposed acquiring Larvotto Resources via a scheme of arrangement, offering 6 USAC shares per 100 Larvotto shares. USAC also disclosed a ~10% ownership stake in Larvotto. The non-binding proposal is subject to Larvotto shareholder and regulatory approvals. The combination aims to scale antimony and critical minerals production outside China. While the proposal is an actionable takeover attempt, completion is conditional on a binding agreement, approvals, and successful integration.

Incyte presented promising data at ESMO 2025 for INCA33890, a TGFβR2×PD-1 bispecific antibody, showing potential efficacy in microsatellite stable (MSS) colorectal cancer with a manageable safety profile. A registrational program is planned for 2026. Also, INCB161734, a KRAS G12D inhibitor, demonstrated a favorable safety profile and clinical benefit in heavily pre-treated pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) patients. Further development plans for INCB161734 are under evaluation.

Johnson & Johnson presented promising Phase 1b/2 OrigAMI-4 data at ESMO 2025 on subcutaneous amivantamab for recurrent/metastatic HPV-unrelated head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (R/M HNSCC) after checkpoint inhibitor and platinum therapy failure. The study showed a 45% overall response rate and tumor shrinkage in 82% of patients, surpassing current therapy benchmarks. SC delivery allows for rapid injection, reducing clinic time. The ongoing Phase 3 OrigAMI-5 study will evaluate amivantamab with pembrolizumab and carboplatin as a first-line treatment.