A little-known biotech stock has become a prime takeover target after surging nearly 1,700% last year
Europe's best performing stock in 2025, Abivax, could be snapped up any day now, analysts say.
TL;DR
- Abivax stock experienced a significant rally in 2025, rising 1,681% after positive late-stage trial results for its ulcerative colitis medicine, obefazimod.
- Analysts predict Abivax could be acquired by a larger pharmaceutical company for as much as $23 billion.
- Obefazimod, initially developed for HIV, showed promise as an anti-inflammatory treatment for inflammatory bowel disease.
- Rumors of a potential acquisition by Eli Lilly emerged in December, though both companies declined to comment.
- The company plans to file for U.S. regulatory approval by the end of 2026, with a potential launch in Q3 2027.
- Big Pharma's increased dealmaking is partly driven by an upcoming patent cliff for blockbuster drugs.
- Abivax CEO Marc de Garidel has a track record of leading successful biotech buyouts.
- Valuation estimates for Abivax range between 12 billion euros and 20 billion euros ($14 billion to $23 billion).