Oncology

Genmab will acquire Merus for $97.00 per share in cash, a deal valued at approximately $8.0 billion. This acquisition adds petosemtamab, a late-stage asset with Breakthrough Therapy Designations for head and neck cancer, to Genmab’s portfolio. Petosemtamab has shown promising Phase 2 data and is currently in Phase 3 trials. Genmab anticipates the acquisition accelerating its business model transition, broadening revenue streams and being accretive to EBITDA by the end of 2029. The deal is expected to close in early 2026, pending customary approvals.

Exelixis, Inc. announced the promotion of Dana T. Aftab, Ph.D., to Executive Vice President, Research and Development. Aftab, with 25 years at Exelixis, will lead drug discovery, translational research, product development, and medical affairs. She played a critical role in developing CABOMETYX® (cabozantinib). The company aims to maximize its portfolio, including zanzalintinib. Amy Peterson, M.D., previously Executive Vice President, Product Development & Medical Affairs, has left Exelixis. Exelixis is focused on creating next-generation oncology medicines.

IDEAYA Biosciences announced stock option grants to a new employee. The company awarded 95,600 shares at $22.29 per share under its 2023 plan, aiming to attract talent. Options vest over four years, with 25% vesting after the first year. IDEAYA, a precision medicine oncology company, focuses on targeted therapies based on molecular diagnostics and synthetic lethality approaches.

BioNTech’s Q1 2025 revenue was €182.8 million, with a net loss of €415.8 million. The company is focusing on its oncology pipeline, including BNT327 and mRNA cancer immunotherapies. It’s also preparing for a variant-adapted COVID-19 vaccine for the 2025/2026 season and confirmed its full-year 2025 financial guidance.