BioNTech

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BioNTech acquires Biotheus to gain global rights to BNT327/PM8002, a PD-L1 and VEGF-A targeting bispecific antibody, enhancing oncology research and development. The acquisition includes upfront payment of $800 million and potential additional $150 million contingent payments, expected to close in Q1 2025. BNT327/PM8002 has shown promising clinical activity in various tumor types, with multiple registrational trials planned for 2024-2025.

Investors react negatively to Trump's nomination of RFK Jr. for HHS, causing COVID-19 vaccine stocks to tumble, with Moderna and BioNTech seeing significant losses. RFK Jr.'s criticism of COVID-19 vaccines and potential impact on vaccine policy contribute to investor concerns. Psychedelic drug companies, however, see stock increases due to RFK's support for the field.

EU authorities to decide on Sputnik V vaccine use in September; Bavarian PM Markus Söder urges EMA for swift approval. Despite EMA's ongoing review, Hungary and Slovakia use Sputnik V without its permission.

BioNTech acquires Chinese oncology startup Biotheus for $950m to develop BNT327/PM8002 antibody, aiming to enhance oncology treatment portfolio and expand in China.

Merck's $588 million deal for LaNova Medicines' LM-299, a PD-1/VEGF bispecific antibody, aims to replace Keytruda's revenue post-2028 patent expiration. LM-299, in early clinical development, could bring LaNova up to $2.7 billion in milestone payments. Bispecific antibodies targeting PD-1 and VEGF are gaining traction, with BioNTech's $800 million acquisition of Biotheus and its PD-L1/VEGF bispecific antibody highlighting the trend.

Merck & Co. acquires LaNova Medicines' LM-299 cancer therapy for $588 million, aiming to bolster its cancer immunotherapy portfolio against emerging PD-1 and VEGF bispecific therapies, which pose a threat to its Keytruda drug. The deal reflects Merck's strategic interest in advancing dual-target cancer treatments, as Keytruda faces potential patent expiration and limited durable response rates.

The North America RNA Therapeutics Market is projected to grow from USD 12.95 billion in 2023 to USD 17.79 billion by 2029, driven by advancements in RNA technology and personalized medicine. Key players include Moderna, Alnylam Pharmaceuticals, and Pfizer Inc.

BioNTech SE to acquire Pumeast Biotechnology for $800 million, with up to $150 million in milestone payments. The deal is expected to close in Q1 2025, pending regulatory approvals.

Novavax received FDA approval to resume clinical trials for its Covid-19 and influenza combination vaccine (CIC) and standalone influenza vaccines after a month-long hold. The Phase III trial will evaluate the CIC vaccine's efficacy in adults aged 65 and older, comparing its immune response to standard flu and Covid-19 vaccines. Novavax aims to commence enrolment by the end of 2024, with preliminary results expected by mid-2025.