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Novartis

Novartis develops and manufactures innovative drugs. Key areas of drug development include oncology, rare diseases, neuroscience, immunology, respiratory, cardio-metabolic, and established medicines. The company sells its products globally, with the United States comprising close to one third of total revenue.

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Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PFE#NYSE">PFE</a>) and Astellas Pharma Inc. (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ALPMF#OTC">ALPMF</a>) (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ALPMY#OTC">ALPMY</a>) on Thursday <a href="https://newsroom.astellas.us/2025-07-10-XTANDI-R-Plus-Leuprolide-Significantly-Improves-Survival-Outcomes-in-Men-with-Non-Metastatic-Hormone-Sensitive-Prostate-Cancer-with-High-Risk-Biochemical-Recurrence?_gl=1&#x2A;io3uax&#x2A;_gcl_au&#x2A;MTgxMjM4ODIyNy4xNzUwMDg5NzEzLjE2ODQwOTM5MDUuMTc1MDk3NjkxOC4xNzUwOTc2OTE5&#x2A;_ga&#x2A;MTMzODE1NTQwNC4xNzM0MzgyMDk4&#x2A;_ga_MBTGG7KX5Y&#x2A;czE3NTIxNzIzMjMkbzUxOSRnMSR0MTc1MjE3MjkyMSRqNTQkbDAkaDYzMTEyOTQ4MA..">released</a> topline results from the overall survival (OS) analysis from the Phase 3 EMBARK study evaluating Xtandi (enzalutamide), in combination with leuprolide and as a monotherapy, in men with non-metastatic hormone-sensitive prostate cancer with biochemical recurrence (BCR) <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/health-care" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">at high risk for metastasis</a>.
For patients treated with Xtandi plus leuprolide versus placebo plus leuprolide, EMBARK met the key secondary endpoint with a statistically significant and clinically <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/25/07/b46338864/xtandi-plus-leuprolide-significantly-improves-survival-outcomes-in-men-with-non-metastatic-hormone" rel="noreferrer noopener">meaningful improvement in OS</a>.
There was a favorable trend in results towards improved OS for patients treated with Xtandi monotherapy versus placebo plus leuprolide; however, the difference did not reach statistical significance.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/02/43737281/pfizers-talzennaxtandi-combo-improves-survival-outcomes-in-metastatic-castration-resistant-prostate-cancer" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pfizer&#8217;s Talzenna/Xtandi Combo Improves Survival Outcomes In Metastatic Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer</a>
No new safety signals were observed in the analysis, and the safety results were consistent with Xtandi&#8217;s demonstrated safety profile.
In the EMBARK study, patients were randomized to one of three study arms: Xtandi plus leuprolide, placebo plus leuprolide or XTANDI monotherapy.
An initial analysis was previously reported in <a href="https://cts.businesswire.com/ct/CT?id=smartlink&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.nejm.org%2Fdoi%2F10.1056%2FNEJMoa2303974%3Furl_ver%3DZ39.88-2003%26rfr_id%3Dori%3Arid%3Acrossref.org%26rfr_dat%3Dcr_pub%2520%25200pubmed&amp;esheet=54287549&amp;newsitemid=20250710409204&amp;lan=en-US&amp;anchor=The+New+England+Journal+of+Medicine&amp;index=1&amp;md5=878c841b90a3bbee8da8c9e6a73ed146" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The New England Journal of Medicine</a> in 2023, demonstrating that the study met its primary endpoint with a statistically significant and clinically meaningful improvement in MFS for patients treated with Xtandi plus leuprolide versus placebo plus leuprolide.
The most common adverse events (occurring in ≥10% of patients) in the combination group and the leuprolide-alone group were hot flashes and fatigue. The most common adverse events in the monotherapy group were gynecomastia, hot flashes, and fatigue.
Xtandi is approved in over 80 countries, including the U.S., the EU and Japan.
Detailed OS results from EMBARK will be presented at a future medical meeting.
In May, Astellas and Pfizer <a href="https://www.pfizer.com/news/press-release/press-release-detail/astellas-and-pfizers-xtanditm-enzalutamide-shows-long-term" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">announced</a> longer-term follow-up results from an open-label extension of the Phase 3 ARCHES study, reporting a five-year follow-up of overall survival (OS) benefits and a 30% reduction in the risk of death in men with metastatic hormone-sensitive prostate cancer (mHSPC) treated with Xtandi plus androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) compared to placebo plus ADT.
In March, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on Friday approved Novartis AG's (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVS#NYSE">NVS</a>) Pluvicto for <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/25/03/44544720/fda-oks-novartis-prostate-cancer-treatment-triples-eligible-patient-pool" rel="noreferrer noopener">prostate cancer patients</a>.
The expanded indication, which approximately triples the number of patients eligible to receive Pluvicto, is based on the Phase 3 PSMAfore trial results.
Novartis is investigating Pluvicto in earlier stages of the disease, including metastatic hormone-sensitive prostate cancer and oligometastatic prostate cancer.
PFE, ALPMY Price Actions: Pfizer stock is up 1.13% at $25.85; Astellas is down 0.64% at $9.40 at publication on Thursday.
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Pfizer, Astellas Report Xtandi Survival Win In Prostate Cancer Study

Novartis's (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVS#NYSE">NVS</a>) short percent of float has risen 17.65% since its last report. The company recently reported that it has 3.87 million shares sold short, which is 0.2% of all regular shares that are available for trading. Based on its trading volume, it would take traders 3.47 days to cover their short positions on average.
<h3>Why Short Interest Matters</h3>
Short interest is the number of shares that have been sold short but have not yet been covered or closed out. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-short-a-stock?adType=benzinga-insights&amp;ad=short-interest&amp;campaign=wallstreetadvantage">Short selling</a> is when a trader sells shares of a company they do not own, with the hope that the price will fall. Traders make money from short selling if the price of the stock falls and they lose if it rises.
Short interest is important to track because it can act as an indicator of market sentiment towards a particular stock. An increase in short interest can signal that investors have become more bearish, while a decrease in short interest can signal they have become more bullish.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/short-interest?adType=benzinga-insights&amp;ad=short-interest&amp;campaign=wallstreetadvantage">List of the most shorted stocks</a>
<h3>Novartis Short Interest Graph (3 Months)</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1752170426_0.png" alt="short_fig" />
As you can see from the chart above the percentage of shares that are sold short for Novartis has grown since its last report. This does not mean that the stock is going to fall in the near-term but traders should be aware that more shares are being shorted.
<h3>Comparing Novartis's Short Interest Against Its Peers</h3>
Peer comparison is a popular technique amongst analysts and investors for gauging how well a company is performing. A company's peer is another company that has similar characteristics to it, such as industry, size, age, and financial structure. You can find a company's peer group by reading its 10-K, proxy filing, or by doing your own similarity analysis.
According to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/">Benzinga Pro</a>, Novartis's peer group average for short interest as a percentage of float is 3.73%, which means the company has less short interest than most of its peers.
Did you know that increasing short interest can actually be bullish for a stock? <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-make-money-on-a-short-squeeze?adType=benzinga-insights&amp;ad=short-interest&amp;campaign=wallstreetadvantage">This post by Benzinga Money explains how you can profit from it.</a>
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and was reviewed by an editor.

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How Do Investors Really Feel About Novartis?

Sironax, a clinical-stage biotech company dedicated to the discovery and development of transformational therapies for age-related diseases, today announced a strategic agreement with Novartis under which Sironax will grant Novartis an exclusive option to acquire its proprietary Brain Delivery Module (BDM) platform, a differentiated blood-brain-barrier (BBB) crossing technology designed to enhance the brain delivery of therapeutics of various modalities. Sironax retains the right to continue developing selected therapeutic assets using the platform. &nbsp;
Under the terms of the agreement, Novartis will evaluate the BDM platform within an option period. Upon option exercise, Novartis will acquire full global rights to the BDM platform. Sironax is eligible to receive up to $175 million in upfront and near-term payments.

Sironax To Grant Novartis Exclusive Option To Acquire Proprietary Brain Delivery Module Platform To Enhance Brain Delivery Of Therapeutics Of Various Modalities

Swissmedic, the Swiss Agency for Therapeutic Products, approved Novartis AG&#8217;s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVS#NYSE">NVS</a>) Coartem (artemether-lumefantrine) Baby on Tuesday. This marks the first malaria medicine specifically approved for <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/health-care" rel="noreferrer noopener">newborns and young infants</a>.
The new treatment, also known as Riamet Baby in some countries, was developed in collaboration with Medicines for Malaria Venture (MMV).
Until now, there has been no approved malaria treatment for infants weighing less than 4.5 kilograms. They have instead been treated with formulations intended for use in older children, which may increase the risk of overdose and toxicity, the company <a target="_blank" href="https://ml-eu.globenewswire.com/Resource/Download/98420ef2-16eb-4e75-812a-4f868349ce60" rel="noreferrer noopener">said</a> in a statement on Tuesday. Malaria vaccines are also not approved for the youngest babies.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/25/03/44148407/fda-places-clinical-hold-on-biontechs-early-phase-trial-for-rna-based-malaria-vaccine" rel="noreferrer noopener">FDA Places Clinical Hold On BioNTech&#8217;s Early-Phase Trial For RNA-Based Malaria Vaccine</a>
Malaria, caused by a parasite and spread to humans by some mosquitoes, remains a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/24/09/40758355/malaria-may-have-killed-half-of-humans-throughout-history-now-bill-gates-has-a-breakthrough-plan-" rel="noreferrer noopener">global health concern</a>, particularly in Africa. According to the most recent WHO data, there were 263 million cases of malaria and 597,000 deaths in 2023, almost all of them in Africa. Children under 5 years old accounted for about three in four malaria deaths in the region.
Some 30 million babies are born in areas of malaria risk in Africa every year, with one large survey across West Africa reporting infections ranging between 3.4% and 18.4% in infants younger than 6 months old. However, current data on malaria in young babies is minimal, as they are rarely included in clinical trials of antimalarial agents.
Novartis plans to introduce Coartem Baby on a largely not-for-profit basis to support access to care in malaria-endemic regions. The treatment is dissolvable, including in breast milk, and has a sweet cherry flavor to aid administration to infants.
The Swissmedic approval is based on the Phase 2/3 CALINA study, which investigated a new ratio and dose of Coartem (artemether-lumefantrine) to account for metabolic differences in babies under 5 kilograms.
The treatment is indicated for infants and neonates weighing between 2 and less than 5 kilograms with acute, uncomplicated infections caused by Plasmodium falciparum or mixed infections including P. falciparum. Coartem is known by the brand name Riamet in Switzerland and some other countries.
Eight African countries also participated in the assessment process and are expected to issue rapid approvals for Coartem Baby under Swissmedic&#8217;s Marketing Authorization for Global Health Products procedure.
Novartis developed the new dose strength designed for young infants with the scientific and financial support of MMV, and as part of the PAMAfrica consortium, which is co-funded by the European &amp; Developing Countries Clinical Trials Partnership and the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency.
Price Action: NVS is trading lower by 0.25% to $121.82 premarket at last check Tuesday.
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Novartis Gets Swiss Approval For First Malaria Drug For Babies

Novartis today announced Coartem (artemether-lumefantrine) Baby has been approved by Swissmedic as the first malaria medicine for newborns and young infants. The new treatment, also known as Riamet Baby in some countries, was developed in collaboration with Medicines for Malaria Venture (MMV) to treat the potentially deadly mosquito-borne disease.

Novartis Earlier Announced It Received Approval For First Malaria Medicine For Newborn Babies And Young Infants

Alphabet Inc.'s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOG#NASDAQ">GOOG</a>) (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOGL#NASDAQ">GOOGL</a>) Isomorphic Labs says its first artificial-intelligence-designed medicines are nearly ready for human testing.
What Happened: Isomorphic Labs President Colin Murdoch <a href="https://fortune.com/2025/07/06/deepmind-isomorphic-labs-cure-all-diseases-ai-now-first-human-trials/">spoke</a> to Fortune in an interview recently where he said, &#8220;There are people sitting in our office in King's Cross, London, collaborating with AI to design drugs for cancer right now.&#8221;
"The next big milestone is actually going out to clinical trials, starting to put these things into human beings," Murdoch added. "We're staffing up now. We're getting very close." Isomorphic, spun out of Google DeepMind in 2021, grew from AlphaFold, the program that predicts protein shapes with near-lab accuracy.
Murdoch said AlphaFold's latest version can simulate how candidate compounds bind to DNA and proteins, letting chemists iterate faster and more precisely. In 2024, Isomorphic <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/01/36528778/googles-ai-spin-off-isomorphic-labs-strikes-big-pharma-deals-paving-the-way-for-future-of-drug-disco">struck research pacts</a> with Novartis (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVS#NYSE">NVS</a>) and Eli Lilly (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LLY#NYSE">LLY</a>) and, in April this year, raised $600 million led by Thrive Capital to build what Murdoch calls a "world-class drug design engine."
See also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/07/46268414/as-elon-musks-rift-with-donald-trump-deepens-former-google-executive-says-maga-and-tech-world-cant-thrive-without-each-other">As Elon Musk&#8217;s Rift With Donald Trump Deepens, Former Google Executive Says MAGA And Tech World Can&#8217;t Thrive Without Each Other</a>
"We're trying to do all these things: speed them up, reduce the cost, but also really improve the chance that we can be successful," he said.
Why It Matters: Rivals are rushing to the clinic as well. Recursion Pharmaceuticals (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RXRX#NASDAQ">RXRX</a>) expects seven programs to begin or read out human studies next year. On the other hand, Hong Kong-based Insilico Medicine earlier this year announced positive takeaways from <a href="https://www.clinicaltrialsarena.com/news/insilico-announces-positive-results-from-phase-i-trials-of-ai-designed-ism5411/?cf-view">trials</a> of its AI-designed drug meant for the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
Investor interest is surging. Recursion shares <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/movers/25/06/45822228/recursion-pharmaceuticals-stock-surges-on-breakthrough-ai-model-launch-with-mit">jumped</a> 18% last month after unveiling an open-source binding-prediction model developed with MIT. Chipmakers are piling in, too. AMD (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMD#NASDAQ">AMD</a>) just <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42874399/amd-invests-20m-in-absci-to-boost-ai-drug-discovery">invested $20 million</a> in Absci to challenge Nvidia's (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>) <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/large-cap/25/06/45910197/nvidia-just-partnered-with-a-weight-loss-giant-but-its-not-about-pills">BioNeMo platform</a> in AI drug discovery.
Alphabet shares score high on Quality and Growth in Benzinga's Edge Stock Rankings and has a favorable price trend in the short, medium and long term. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/benzinga-edge-2#:~:text=Turn%20Market%20Chaos,when%20markets%20rebound">Check&nbsp;here&nbsp;for deeper insights into the stock</a>.
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/benzinga-edge-2#:~:text=Turn%20Market%20Chaos,when%20markets%20rebound"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="152" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/07032034/goog-edge-1024x152.png" alt="" class="wp-image-974192" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/07032034/goog-edge-1024x152.png 1024w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/07032034/goog-edge-300x45.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/07032034/goog-edge-768x114.png 768w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/07032034/goog-edge.png 1386w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></a></figure>
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Alphabet-Backed Drug Discovery Firm Nears Human Trials Of AI-Developed Remedies, Says President: 'The Next Big Milestone Is…'

Novartis AG (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVS#NYSE">NVS</a>) on Thursday released topline results from the Phase 3 GCAptAIN study evaluating Cosentyx (secukinumab) for newly diagnosed or relapsing <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/health-care" rel="noreferrer noopener">giant cell arteritis (GCA)</a>.
Giant cell arteritis is an inflammation of the lining of the arteries. It often affects the arteries in the head, especially <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/25/07/n46238710/novartis-provides-update-on-phase-iii-gcaptain-study-of-cosentyx-in-giant-cell-arteritis-gca" rel="noreferrer noopener">those in the temples</a>.
In the study, Cosentyx was evaluated with a 26-week steroid taper and compared to a placebo plus a 52-week steroid taper. Cosentyx did not demonstrate a statistically significant improvement in sustained remission at Week 52 compared to placebo.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/fda/25/06/46166652/fda-eases-access-to-life-saving-gene-therapies-for-blood-cancers" rel="noreferrer noopener">FDA Eases Access To Life-Saving Gene Therapies For Blood Cancers</a>
While the secondary outcomes did not show statistical superiority, Cosentyx showed numerically better outcomes compared to placebo for cumulative steroid dose and steroid-related toxicity.
Safety in GCA was consistent with the known safety profile of Cosentyx, which is supported by robust evidence and 10 years of real-world data across its approved indications. Novartis will complete a full evaluation of the GCAptAIN data and share the results later.
This outcome comes as the competitive landscape for GCA treatments is evolving. Just in April of this year, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Commission approved AbbVie Inc.&#8217;s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ABBV#NYSE">ABBV</a>) Rinvoq (upadacitinib), 15 mg, once daily, for <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/25/04/45079377/abbvie-scores-fda-approval-for-its-blockbuster-drug-rinvoq-to-treat-type-of-arthritis" rel="noreferrer noopener">giant cell arteritis</a>, adding another therapeutic option for patients.
Despite this setback in GCA, Cosentyx remains a significant revenue generator for Novartis. The drug&#8217;s sales increased by 16% year-over-year to $1.5 billion (+18% on constant currency) in <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/45075714/novartis-q1-earnings-beat-street-view-ceo-confident-to-deliver-upgraded-2025-guidance" rel="noreferrer noopener">the first quarter of 2025</a>, driven by its established uses in conditions such as psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis.
In other recent news for Novartis, the company released positive results in June from its APPULSE-PNH Phase 3B study. This study evaluated the efficacy and safety of twice-daily oral monotherapy Fabhalta (iptacopan) in adult patients with paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) with Hb levels ≥10g/dL who switched from anti-C5 <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/large-cap/25/06/45912248/novartis-fabhalta-delivers-hemoglobin-gains-reduces-fatigue-in-patients-with-rare-blood-disorder" rel="noreferrer noopener">therapies (eculizumab or ravulizumab)</a>.
The company released topline <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42370119/novartis-touts-encouraging-data-from-late-stage-study-for-fabhalta-in-rare-type-of-blood-disorder" rel="noreferrer noopener">data in December 2024</a>. After 24 weeks of treatment with Fabhalta, the Hb level improved&nbsp;on average by 2.01 g/dL, with most patients achieving normal or near-normal levels.
Price Action: NVS stock is trading lower by 1.21% to $122.31 during the premarket session at last check Thursday.
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Novartis' Cosentyx Fails Late-Stage Giant Cell Arteritis Trial

<ul>
<li>The GCAptAIN study did not meet its primary endpoint of sustained remission at Week 52 in adults with newly diagnosed or relapsing GCA1</li>
<li>Safety in GCA patients was consistent with known safety profile of Cosentyx&#xAE; (secukinumab)1</li>
</ul>

Novartis Reports Phase III GCAptAIN Study Did Not Meet Primary Endpoint Of Sustained Remission At Week 52 In GCA Patients

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced on Friday that it has eliminated the Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategies (REMS) for currently approved BCMA- and CD19-directed autologous chimeric antigen receptor <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/health-care" rel="noreferrer noopener">CAR T cell immunotherapies</a>.&nbsp;
These products are gene therapies currently approved to treat blood cancers, such as multiple myeloma and certain types of leukemia and lymphoma.
&#8220;The FDA has taken the bold step to remove the Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy requirement from giving CAR T therapies. REMS is a useful safety system, but reevaluation over time helps inform whether a REMS is still needed to ensure that the benefits of a product outweigh its risks,&#8221;&nbsp;said FDA Vinay Prasad, Chief Medical and Scientific Officer and Director, Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research.&nbsp;
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/fda/25/06/46144447/fda-eases-rules-for-bristol-myers-cell-therapies-for-blood-cancers" rel="noreferrer noopener">FDA Eases Rules For Bristol Myers&#8217; Cell Therapies For Blood Cancers</a>
&#8220;Eliminating the REMS that is no longer needed also expedites the delivery of potentially curative treatments to patients and reduces the burden on providers,&#8221; he added.
A REMS is a safety <a target="_blank" href="https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-eliminates-risk-evaluation-and-mitigation-strategies-rems-autologous-chimeric-antigen-receptor" rel="noreferrer noopener">program</a> that the FDA can require for certain medications with serious safety concerns to help ensure the benefits of the medication outweigh its risks.
The FDA determined that the approved REMS for the f<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/24/01/36760938/gileads-tecartus-dropped-from-fda-list-of-car-t-therapy-with-updated-label-warning-of-risks-of-se" rel="noreferrer noopener">ollowing products should be eliminated</a> because a REMS is no longer necessary to ensure that the benefits of the autologous CAR T cell immunotherapies outweigh their risks.&nbsp;
The products affected by this change include Bristol Myers Squibb &amp; Co.&#8217;s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BMY#NYSE">BMY</a>) Breyanzi (lisocabtagene maraleucel) and Abecma (idecabtagene vicleucel), Johnson &amp; Johnson&#8217;s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JNJ#NYSE">JNJ</a>) Carvykti (ciltacabtagene autoleucel), Novartis AG&#8217;s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVS#NYSE">NVS</a>) Kymriah (tisagenlecleucel), and Gilead Science Inc.&#8217;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GILD#NASDAQ">GILD</a>) Yescarta (axicabtagene ciloleucel) and Tecartus (brexucabtagene autoleucel).
The elimination of REMS for the above products removes the requirements that hospitals and their associated clinics that dispense products must be specially certified and have on-site, immediate access to tocilizumab.
&#8220;Continuous monitoring and assessment of the safety of all biological products, including the CAR T cell immunotherapies, is an FDA priority and we remain committed to informing the public when we learn new information about these products,&#8221; the FDA said in a press release.
As per a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.fda.gov/vaccines-blood-biologics/safety-availability-biologics/fda-eliminates-risk-evaluation-and-mitigation-strategies-rems-autologous-chimeric-antigen-receptor" rel="noreferrer noopener">safety</a> statement on Thursday, the regulator also reduced its requirement that patients remain near the facility where they received treatment to two weeks. The agency also removed its advice to patients to avoid driving for two weeks following product administration.
Commenting on the development and accessibility of CAR T-cell therapies, William Blair said, &#8220;Overall, we view the removal of the REMS program for CAR-T cell therapies as a positive development for the space, as it supports the notion that the FDA is working to minimize red tape and increase access to potentially curative treatments for patients. We also believe the removal of the REMS requirements could increase access and use of these therapies in the community settings.&#8221;
Analyst Sami Corwin said the update also suggests there will likely be no REMS requirements for CD19 and BCMA autologous CAR-T cell therapies approved in the future, such as Arcellx, Inc&#8217;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ACLX#NASDAQ">ACLX</a>) anito-cel.
Moreover, Corwin highlighted the positive implications for companies developing CAR T-cell therapies for autoimmune diseases, such as Autolus Therapeutics plc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AUTL#NASDAQ">AUTL</a>), Bristol-Myers, and Cabaletta Bio, Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CABA#NASDAQ">CABA</a>), &#8220;given that the safety profile is more tolerable than in oncology.&#8221;
Read Next:
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</ul>
Photo by Tada Images via Shutterstock

ACLX

AUTL

CABA

GILD

FDA Eases Access To Life-Saving Gene Therapies For Blood Cancers

AMZN

iShares Dow Jones US Financial Sector Index Fund

TSLX

CNBC Halftime Report Final Trades: Novartis, Amazon, iShares U.S. Financial ETF, Sixth Street Specialty Lending

Biogen Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BIIB#NASDAQ">BIIB</a>) on Wednesday announced<a href="https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2025/06/25/3104985/0/en/Biogen-to-Advance-Investigational-Spinal-Muscular-Atrophy-Asset-to-Registrational-Studies-Based-on-Positive-Interim-Phase-1-Results.html"> in</a> a press release the topline results from the Phase 1 study of salanersen (BIIB115/ION306), an antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) being developed for <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">spinal muscular atrophy (SMA)</a>.
Biogen licensed the global development, manufacturing and commercialization rights for salanersen from Ionis Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IONS#NASDAQ">IONS</a>). Salanersen was discovered by Ionis.
Leveraging the same mechanism of action as Spinraza (nusinersen) but designed to achieve greater potency, salanersen can achieve high efficacy and enable once-a-year dose.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/m-a/25/06/45949485/supernus-pharma-acquires-maker-of-postpartum-depression-drug-zurzuvae-in-795-million-deal" rel="noreferrer noopener">Supernus Pharma Acquires Maker Of Postpartum Depression Drug Zurzuvae In $795 Million Deal</a>
An interim analysis of the phase one study in participants with SMA who were previously treated with Novartis AG&#8217;s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVS#NYSE">NVS</a>) gene therapy, Zolgensma (onasemnogene abeparvovec), was conducted to inform the decision on whether to move salanersen forward <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/25/06/g46091748/biogen-to-advance-investigational-spinal-muscular-atrophy-asset-to-registrational-studies-based-on" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">into registrational studies</a>.
Both dose levels tested, 40 mg and 80 mg, given once a year, were generally well-tolerated and led to substantial slowing of neurodegeneration, as shown by reductions in neurofilament.
Exploratory clinical outcome data show clinically meaningful improvements in function and attainment of new World Health Organization (WHO) milestones over one year.
Interim results are from part B (n=24) in individuals who received either 40 mg or 80 mg salanersen once a year.
In participants with elevated baseline concentrations of neurofilament light chain (NfL), indicating ongoing neurodegeneration, initiation of salanersen led to mean reductions in NfL of 70% at six months, which were sustained through the one-year dosing interval.
Exploratory clinical outcome data were evaluated for the subgroup of participants with at least one year of follow-up during the interim analysis (n=8 participants aged 2-12 who received 40 mg of salanersen). Half (four out of eight) of these participants achieved new WHO motor milestones they could not previously achieve on their own or required assistance, such as walking, crawling, standing or sitting.
Furthermore, these participants experienced clinically meaningful improvements in motor function from baseline to one year, including a 3.3-point (SD 4.46) mean improvement from baseline on the Hammersmith Functional Motor Scale – Expanded (HFMSE) and a 5.3 point (SD 4.75) improvement on the Revised Upper Limb Module (RULM).
Biogen is currently engaging with global health authorities regarding the design of the phase 3 studies.
Earlier in June, Biogen initiated dosing in the BRAVE phase 3 study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of omaveloxolone in children with Friedreich ataxia (FA) between <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/25/06/g45992415/biogen-initiates-phase-3-pediatric-study-of-omaveloxolone-for-the-treatment-of-friedreich-ataxia" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">the ages of 2 to &lt;16</a>.
Both non-ambulatory and ambulatory participants may qualify for the study.
Currently, omaveloxolone is commercialized under the brand name Skyclarys in over 40 countries, including the U.S. and the European Union, and is the only approved product for FA in adults and adolescents aged 16 years and older.
BIIB Price Action: Biogen stock is up 0.58% at $127.04 at publication on Wednesday.
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</ul>
Photo: New Africa via Shutterstock

BIIB

IONS

Biogen-Ionis Partnered Drug Shows Benefit In Children With Spinal Muscular Atrophy Previously Treated With Novartis' Zolgensma

On Monday, HC Wainwright initiated coverage on Septerna, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SEPN#NASDAQ">SEPN</a>), citing a next-generation drug design platform aimed at <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/health-care" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hitherto-undruggable targets</a>.
Septerna is working on G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) drug discovery powered by its proprietary Native Complex Platform. Its industrial-scale platform aims to unlock the full <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/25/05/g45450781/septerna-highlights-business-progress-and-reports-first-quarter-2025-financial-results" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">potential of GPCR therapies</a>.
It has led to the discovery and development of its deep pipeline of oral small molecule product candidates focused initially on treating patients in three therapeutic areas: endocrinology, immunology and inflammation, and metabolic diseases.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/25/05/45407486/novo-nordisk-inks-22-billion-deal-with-septerna-to-develop-oral-weight-loss-and-diabetes-drugs" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Novo Nordisk Inks $2.2 Billion Deal With Septerna To Develop Oral Weight Loss And Diabetes Drugs</a>
Analyst Raghuram Selvaraju, in his report, highlighted several compelling factors for investors.
He pointed out that &#8220;Septerna trades at a discount to its most recently reported cash position and upfront cash from a recently-inked partnership.&#8221; 
This, he argues, makes Septerna &#8220;a risk-mitigated opportunity with multiple shots on goal and catalysts constituting key value inflection points slated to accrue over the next six to 12 months.&#8221;
HC Wainwright has initiated coverage on the biotechnology firm with a Buy rating and a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/SEPN/analyst-ratings">price forecast of $26</a>.
The company&#8217;s most advanced drug candidate, SEP-631, is a selective oral small molecule MRGPRX2 negative allosteric modulator (NAM) in development for mast cell diseases, including chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU).
Wainwright believes SEP-631 could offer a distinct treatment option for CSU patients. This is due to its selective inhibition of mast cells, convenient oral administration, and potential for combination therapy. 
Selvaraju further noted that if SEP-631 can replicate the efficacy of Novartis AG (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVS#NYSE">NVS</a>)/Roche Holdings AG&#8217;s (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RHHBY#OTC">RHHBY</a>) Xolair (omalizumab) – an anti-IgE monoclonal antibody that generated nearly $3.9 billion in sales in 2023, it &#8220;could readily achieve blockbuster status based on an enhanced convenience profile.
Further solidifying its position, Septerna recently announced an exclusive global collaboration and license agreement with Novo Nordisk A/S (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVS#NYSE">NVS</a>) in May. 
This <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/25/05/45407486/novo-nordisk-inks-22-billion-deal-with-septerna-to-develop-oral-weight-loss-and-diabetes-drugs">significant pact</a> covers the discovery, development, and commercialization of oral small-molecule medicines for obesity, type 2 diabetes, and other cardiometabolic diseases, with<a href="https://www.novonordisk.com/content/nncorp/global/en/news-and-media/news-and-ir-materials/news-details.html?id=916006"> four development programs</a> initially commencing. 
HC Wainwright underscored the financial implications of this partnership, stating, &#8220;given the size of the upfront and near-term milestone payments, we feel that Septerna&#8217;s implied enterprise value is either negligible or actually negative, further mitigating risk and underscoring the extent to which the company appears undervalued.&#8221;
Price Action: SEPN stock is trading higher by 0.38% to $10.51 at last check Monday.
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</ul>
Photo via Shutterstock

Analyst Color

Price Target

Initiation

RHHBY

SEPN

Analyst Flags Septerna As Undervalued Biotech Play With Significant Upside

Novo Nordisk A/S (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVS#NYSE">NVS</a>) announced Thursday that it will advance subcutaneous and oral amycretin into phase 3 development <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/weight-loss" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">in weight management</a>.
Amycretin is developed for subcutaneous and oral administration.
The decision to advance subcutaneous and oral amycretin into phase 3 is based on feedback received from regulatory authorities following end-of-phase 2 interactions for subcutaneous and oral amycretin in weight management.
Novo Nordisk <a target="_blank" href="https://www.novonordisk.com/content/nncorp/global/en/news-and-media/news-and-ir-materials/news-details.html?id=916348" rel="noreferrer noopener">plans</a> to initiate a phase 3 development program with amycretin for adults with overweight or obesity during the first quarter of 2026.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/health-care/25/06/45885869/novo-nordisk-deep-apple-launch-drug-discovery-alliance-for-weight-loss-oral-therapies" rel="noreferrer noopener">Novo Nordisk, Deep Apple Launch Drug Discovery Alliance For Weight Loss Oral Therapies</a>
Oral Amycretin Phase 1 trial evaluated the single-ascending dose and multiple-ascending doses for oral amycretin, up to 2 times 50 mg, in people with overweight or obesity, with a total treatment duration of up to 12 weeks.
The Subcutaneous Amycretin Phase 1b/2a trial investigated the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics, and proof-of-concept of once-weekly subcutaneous amycretin in overweight or obese people.
The trial was a combined single ascending dose, multiple ascending dose, and dose-response trial investigating three different maintenance doses with a total treatment duration of up to 36 weeks.
When evaluating the effects of treatment if all people adhered to treatment&nbsp;from a mean baseline body weight of 92.7 kg, people treated with amycretin achieved an estimated body weight loss of 9.7% on 1.25mg (20 weeks), 16.2% on 5mg (28 weeks) and 22.0% <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/25/01/43187095/novo-nordisks-weekly-amycretin-delivers-up-to-22-weight-loss-in-study-stock-soars" rel="noreferrer noopener">on 20mg (36 weeks)</a>.
People treated with a placebo experienced an estimated 1.9%, 2.3%, and 2.0% body weight gain, respectively.
After the update, Novo Nordisk again became the largest European company by market capitalization.
According <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/feature/newsfeed" rel="noreferrer noopener">to Benzinga Pro</a>, Novo Nordisk&#8217;s market capitalization was $360.14 billion, compared with $351.9 billion for SAP SE (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SAP#NYSE">SAP</a>).
Since reaching a record high in June 2024, Novo has suffered a series of setbacks, including <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42613036/novo-nordisks-hybrid-weight-loss-drug-falls-short-on-expectations-stock-plunges" rel="noreferrer noopener">disappointing clinical trial results</a> for its experimental obesity treatments and mounting competition from its U.S. rival, Eli Lilly And Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LLY#NYSE">LLY</a>).
In May, the drugmaker <a href="https://www.novonordisk.com/content/nncorp/global/en/news-and-media/news-and-ir-materials/news-details.html?id=916008" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">decided</a> to replace chief executive officer Lars Fruergaard Jorgensen. A search for a new CEO is ongoing.
Year to date, Novo Nordisk stock has fallen around 5.5%. In the past year, the stock has plunged approximately 43%.
Price Action: NVO stock is down 0.57% at $80.59&nbsp;at the last check on Friday.
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</ul>
Photo: Shutterstock

Novo Nordisk Moves Amycretin Into Phase 3 Trials For Weight Management, Becomes Europe's Largest Company

Novartis AG (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVS#NYSE">NVS</a>) on Thursday released results from APPULSE-PNH, a Phase 3B study evaluating the efficacy and safety of twice-daily oral monotherapy Fabhalta (iptacopan) in adult patients with <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/health-care" rel="noreferrer noopener">paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH)</a> with Hb levels ≥10g/dL who switched from anti-C5 therapies (eculizumab or ravulizumab).
The company released topline <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42370119/novartis-touts-encouraging-data-from-late-stage-study-for-fabhalta-in-rare-type-of-blood-disorder" rel="noreferrer noopener">data in December 2024</a>.
What Happened: PNH is a rare complement-mediated blood disorder. People with PNH have an acquired mutation in some of their hematopoietic stem cells that causes them to produce RBCs susceptible to premature destruction.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/45075714/novartis-q1-earnings-beat-street-view-ceo-confident-to-deliver-upgraded-2025-guidance" rel="noreferrer noopener">Novartis Q1 Earnings Beat Street View, CEO &#8216;Confident&#8217; In Delivering Upgraded Guidance</a>
This leads to intravascular hemolysis (destruction of RBCs within blood vessels) and extravascular hemolysis (destruction of RBCs mostly in the spleen and liver).
After 24 <a target="_blank" href="https://www.novartis.com/news/media-releases/novartis-fabhalta-shows-statistically-significant-and-clinically-meaningful-improvements-hemoglobin-new-population-patients-pnh" rel="noreferrer noopener">weeks</a> of treatment with Fabhalta, the Hb level improved&nbsp;on average by 2.01 g/dL, with most patients achieving normal or near-normal levels.
Data will be presented at the European Hematology Association (EHA) Congress 2025.
No patients required transfusion during the study, and the vast majority (92.7%) achieved Hb ≥12g/dL, reaching normal or near-normal levels. Patients treated with Fabhalta also reported clinically meaningful improvements in fatigue (as measured by FACIT-Fatigue score) through Day 168, reaching absolute levels similar to those reported in the general population.
Furthermore, patients treated with Fabhalta maintained intravascular hemolysis control and resolved extravascular hemolysis control, as demonstrated by lactate dehydrogenase levels (&lt;1.5 upper limit of normal) and a reduction in absolute reticulocyte count.
Alongside APPULSE-PNH, longer-term data from patients initially included in the APPLY-PNH and APPOINT-PNH Phase 3 studies will be presented at EHA.
Why It Matters: Novartis says Anti-C5 therapies, including AstraZeneca Plc&#8217;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AZN#NASDAQ">AZN</a>) Soliris (eculizumab) or Ultomiris (ravulizumab), are commonly administered every two to eight weeks as intravenous infusions, and treatment visits (including journey, waiting, infusion and recovery time) can take approximately four to five hours.
Despite treatment with anti-C5 therapies, a large proportion of people with PNH remain anemic, and some are dependent on blood transfusions.
NVS Price Action: NVS stock is up 2.17% at $120.54 at publication on Thursday.
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</ul>
Photo: Shutterstock

Novartis' Fabhalta Delivers Hemoglobin Gains, Reduces Fatigue In Patients With Rare Blood Disorder

Novartis's (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVS#NYSE">NVS</a>) short percent of float has fallen 26.09% since its last report. The company recently reported that it has 3.35 million shares sold short, which is 0.17% of all regular shares that are available for trading. Based on its trading volume, it would take traders 1.74 days to cover their short positions on average.
<h3>Why Short Interest Matters</h3>
Short interest is the number of shares that have been sold short but have not yet been covered or closed out. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-short-a-stock?adType=benzinga-insights&amp;ad=short-interest&amp;campaign=wallstreetadvantage">Short selling</a> is when a trader sells shares of a company they do not own, with the hope that the price will fall. Traders make money from short selling if the price of the stock falls and they lose if it rises.
Short interest is important to track because it can act as an indicator of market sentiment towards a particular stock. An increase in short interest can signal that investors have become more bearish, while a decrease in short interest can signal they have become more bullish.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/short-interest?adType=benzinga-insights&amp;ad=short-interest&amp;campaign=wallstreetadvantage">List of the most shorted stocks</a>
<h3>Novartis Short Interest Graph (3 Months)</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1749045633_0.png" alt="short_fig" />
As you can see from the chart above the percentage of shares that are sold short for Novartis has declined since its last report. This does not mean that the stock is going to rise in the near-term but traders should be aware that less shares are being shorted.
<h3>Comparing Novartis's Short Interest Against Its Peers</h3>
Peer comparison is a popular technique amongst analysts and investors for gauging how well a company is performing. A company's peer is another company that has similar characteristics to it, such as industry, size, age, and financial structure. You can find a company's peer group by reading its 10-K, proxy filing, or by doing your own similarity analysis.
According to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/">Benzinga Pro</a>, Novartis's peer group average for short interest as a percentage of float is 3.72%, which means the company has less short interest than most of its peers.
Did you know that increasing short interest can actually be bullish for a stock? <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-make-money-on-a-short-squeeze?adType=benzinga-insights&amp;ad=short-interest&amp;campaign=wallstreetadvantage">This post by Benzinga Money explains how you can profit from it.</a>
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and was reviewed by an editor.

Is Novartis Gaining or Losing Market Support?

<ul>
<li>Thoma Bravo may retain minority stake in Apryse</li>
<li>Company generates over $100 million in EBITDA, growing over 20% annually</li>
<li>Apryse completed over a dozen acquisitions to expand functionality</li>
</ul>
May 29 (Reuters) - Buyout firm Thoma Bravo is exploring a $3 billion-plus sale of Apryse, after receiving interest from potential buyers of the document processing software provider, people familiar with the matter said on Thursday.
Thoma Bravo is working with investment bankers at Lazard <a href="https://workspace.refinitiv.com/web/apps/quotewebapi?RIC=LAZ.N">LAZ.N</a> on the sale process, said the sources, noting interest had already come from other private equity firms.
As part of any deal, Thoma Bravo may decide to retain a minority stake in Apryse, the sources said. They also cautioned that no sale was guaranteed and spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss confidential deliberations.
Thoma Bravo declined to comment, while Apryse and Lazard did not respond to Reuters' requests for comment.
Denver, Colorado-based Apryse provides document processing technology for developers of mobile and computer applications, allowing them to create, edit, and convert digital documents, as well as integrate such capabilities into their own applications.
Its customers include Novartis <a href="https://workspace.refinitiv.com/web/apps/quotewebapi?RIC=NOVN.S">NOVN.S</a>, Wells Fargo <a href="https://workspace.refinitiv.com/web/apps/quotewebapi?RIC=WFC.N">WFC.N</a> and DocuSign <a href="https://workspace.refinitiv.com/web/apps/quotewebapi?RIC=DOCU.O">DOCU.O</a>, according to its website.
Apryse generates more than $100 million in earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) and is growing more than 20 percent annually, the sources said.
Any deal is expected to value the company at 30x its EBITDA or higher, the sources added.
PDFTron, the previous name of Apryse, was founded in 1998 as a document processing technology platform. It was acquired by Thoma Bravo in 2021, with the investment led by the co-head of Thoma's Discover platform, Hudson Smith. The company was renamed as Apryse two years later. Silversmith Capital Partners and the company's management team have remained minority shareholders in the business.
Apryse has completed nine add-on acquisitions to expand its functionality and global reach since Thoma Bravo acquired the company. These include Netherlands-based digital document processor TallComponents, which was announced earlier this week, and AI-powered software maker Lead Technologies, completed last year.

Asset Sales

DOCU

'Thoma Bravo Exploring $3 Billion-Plus Sale Of Software Firm Apryse After Receiving Inbound Interest, Sources Say' - Reuters Exclusive

This whale alert can help traders discover the next big trading opportunities.
Whales are entities with large sums of money and we track their transactions here at Benzinga on our options activity scanner.
Traders will search for circumstances when the market estimation of an option diverges heavily from its normal worth. High amounts of trading activity could push option prices to exaggerated or underestimated levels. 
Here's the list of options activity happening in today's session: 
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th>Open Interest</th>
<th>Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>TEM</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>07/18/25</td>
<td>$55.00</td>
<td>$71.1K</td>
<td>2.1K</td>
<td>1.3K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MRNA</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>06/06/25</td>
<td>$25.00</td>
<td>$68.0K</td>
<td>2.2K</td>
<td>1.0K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>GILD</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>06/06/25</td>
<td>$100.00</td>
<td>$44.0K</td>
<td>1.1K</td>
<td>960</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>REGN</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>07/18/25</td>
<td>$630.00</td>
<td>$119.6K</td>
<td>6</td>
<td>705</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>VEEV</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$210.00</td>
<td>$65.7K</td>
<td>534</td>
<td>589</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>NVS</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$115.00</td>
<td>$28.0K</td>
<td>1.8K</td>
<td>379</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MDT</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>08/15/25</td>
<td>$80.00</td>
<td>$42.5K</td>
<td>883</td>
<td>372</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>AMGN</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$295.00</td>
<td>$40.2K</td>
<td>985</td>
<td>344</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>ABBV</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$195.00</td>
<td>$25.8K</td>
<td>5.0K</td>
<td>319</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>COR</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$280.00</td>
<td>$36.4K</td>
<td>762</td>
<td>200</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h2>Explanation</h2>
These bullet-by-bullet explanations have been constructed using the accompanying table. 
• For TEM (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TEM#NASDAQ">TEM</a>), we notice a put option sweep that happens to be bearish, expiring in 51 day(s) on July 18, 2025. This event was a transfer of 89 contract(s) at a $55.00 strike. This particular put needed to be split into 3 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $71.1K, with a price of $799.0 per contract. There were 2196 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 1320 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For MRNA (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRNA#NASDAQ">MRNA</a>), we notice a put option sweep that happens to be bearish, expiring in 9 day(s) on June 6, 2025. This event was a transfer of 1000 contract(s) at a $25.00 strike. This particular put needed to be split into 7 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $68.0K, with a price of $68.0 per contract. There were 2289 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 1083 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For GILD (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GILD#NASDAQ">GILD</a>), we notice a put option trade that happens to be bearish, expiring in 9 day(s) on June 6, 2025. This event was a transfer of 958 contract(s) at a $100.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $44.0K, with a price of $46.0 per contract. There were 1139 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 960 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding REGN (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/REGN#NASDAQ">REGN</a>), we observe a call option trade with neutral sentiment. It expires in 51 day(s) on July 18, 2025. Parties traded 46 contract(s) at a $630.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $119.6K, with a price of $2600.0 per contract. There were 6 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 705 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding VEEV (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VEEV#NYSE">VEEV</a>), we observe a put option sweep with bearish sentiment. It expires in 23 day(s) on June 20, 2025. Parties traded 212 contract(s) at a $210.00 strike. This particular put needed to be split into 45 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $65.7K, with a price of $310.0 per contract. There were 534 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 589 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For NVS (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVS#NYSE">NVS</a>), we notice a call option sweep that happens to be bullish, expiring in 23 day(s) on June 20, 2025. This event was a transfer of 224 contract(s) at a $115.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 9 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $28.0K, with a price of $125.0 per contract. There were 1879 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 379 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For MDT (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MDT#NYSE">MDT</a>), we notice a call option trade that happens to be bearish, expiring in 79 day(s) on August 15, 2025. This event was a transfer of 100 contract(s) at a $80.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $42.5K, with a price of $425.0 per contract. There were 883 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 372 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding AMGN (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMGN#NASDAQ">AMGN</a>), we observe a call option trade with bullish sentiment. It expires in 23 day(s) on June 20, 2025. Parties traded 134 contract(s) at a $295.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $40.2K, with a price of $300.0 per contract. There were 985 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 344 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For ABBV (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ABBV#NYSE">ABBV</a>), we notice a call option trade that happens to be bullish, expiring in 23 day(s) on June 20, 2025. This event was a transfer of 137 contract(s) at a $195.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $25.8K, with a price of $189.0 per contract. There were 5038 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 319 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding COR (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/COR#NYSE">COR</a>), we observe a put option sweep with neutral sentiment. It expires in 23 day(s) on June 20, 2025. Parties traded 135 contract(s) at a $280.00 strike. This particular put needed to be split into 27 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $36.4K, with a price of $270.0 per contract. There were 762 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 200 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
Options Alert Terminology 
 - Call Contracts: The right to buy shares as indicated in the contract. 
 - Put Contracts: The right to sell shares as indicated in the contract. 
 - Expiration Date: When the contract expires. One must act on the contract by this date if one wants to use it. 
 - Premium/Option Price: The price of the contract. 
For more information, visit our <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/blog/how-to-understand-option-alerts/">Guide to Understanding Options Alerts</a> or read <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/options">more about unusual options activity</a>. 
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

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10 Health Care Stocks Whale Activity In Today's Session

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Novartis Subsidiary Launches Offer to Acquire All Outstanding Shares of Regulus Therapeutics for $7.00 in Cash Plus Additional $7.00 Contingent Value Right Per Share, with Offer Expiring at 12:01 A.M. ET on June 25, 2025, Unless Extended or Terminated

<a href="https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-clears-first-blood-test-used-diagnosing-alzheimers-disease#:~:text=The%20Lumipulse%20G%20pTau217%2F%C3%9F,and%20symptoms%20of%20the%20disease">https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-clears-first-blood-test-used-diagnosing-alzheimers-disease#:~:text=The%20Lumipulse%20G%20pTau217%2F%C3%9F,and%20symptoms%20of%20the%20disease</a>.

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In a move that indicates faith in the resurgence of global equities, Lazard Asset Management has transformed its International Equity Advantage mutual fund into<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/etfs"> actively managed ETF</a>, the Lazard International Dynamic Equity Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IEQ#NYSE">IEQ</a>). With this, IEQ joins Lazard&#8217;s theme- and region-based ETF suite that includes the Equity Megatrends ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/THMZ#NASDAQ">THMZ</a>), Japanese Equity ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JPY#NASDAQ">JPY</a>), and Next Gen Technologies ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TEKY#NASDAQ">TEKY</a>).
Also Read:<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/etfs/specialty-etfs/25/05/45297474/imtm-etf-tanks-then-soars-why-global-momentum-is-making-a-comeback"> IMTM ETF Tanks, Then Soars: Why Global Momentum Is Making A Comeback</a>
Launched on Monday, IEQ is not starting from zero. It inherits both the history and portfolio DNA of its mutual fund ancestor, now in the slick, low-cost, and tax-efficient wrapper increasingly favored by investors. The ETF launched with $31.1 million in assets and an expense ratio of 0.40%.
IEQ follows the MSCI All Country World ex-US Index (ACWI ex-US) as its benchmark but seeks to outperform it, not merely replicate it. The fund uses a quantitatively oriented process that combines machine intelligence with fundamental research to create a concentrated, high-conviction portfolio of non-U.S. stocks.
The fund&#8217;s strategy resists temptation to lean too heavily in any one direction of investment. Rather, Lazard&#8217;s team regularly assesses companies on the basis of valuation, growth, quality, and the way markets are thinking about them.
Rob Forsyth, Lazard's Global Head of ETFs, sees the &#8220;pendulum swing back toward international equities,&#8221; and investors are taking notice.
Additionally, Lazard Chief Market Strategist Ronald Temple sees a &#8220;world of opportunity&#8221; outside of the U.S., according to Bloomberg.
IEQ's portfolio includes global powerhouses such as TSMC (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSM#NYSE">TSM</a>), Iberdrola (OTCPK: IBDRY), Novartis (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVS#NYSE">NVS</a>), Alibaba (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BABA#NYSE">BABA</a>), and Tencent (OTCPK: TCEHY), offering exposure across key regions and sectors.
As the ETF market starts to sizzle and international shares return to favour with investors, Lazard is betting that an experienced international strategy with a technology-driven twist is precisely what the market needed. IEQ might be a new ticker tape name, but the strategy playbook that underlies it has been rigorously stress-tested through market cycles — and now it&#8217;s taking it global.
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Image: Shutterstock

New ETFs

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BABA

IBDRY

TCEHY

TEKY

THMZ

Lazard Transforms Mutual Fund Into IEQ ETF Amid Rising Demand For International Stocks

Press Releases

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ARVN

ATNM

AVIR

BNTX

CARM

COYA

MEIP

ONCY

RIBT

RLAY

RVMD

SYBX

TNGX

TSX:ONC

TSX:PHO

Amneal Pharmaceuticals, Inc. - Class A Common Stock

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AstraZeneca PLC - American Depositary Shares

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Bristol-Myers Squibb Company Common Stock

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Corcept Therapeutics Incorporated - Common Stock

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Elanco Animal Health Incorporated Common Stock

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GSK plc American Depositary Shares (Each representing two Ordinary Shares)

HUTCHMED (China) Limited - American Depositary Shares

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Haleon plc American Depositary Shares (Each representing two Ordinary Shares)

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Jazz Pharmaceuticals plc - Ordinary Shares

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Johnson & Johnson

Eli Lilly

Merck & Co

Novo Nordisk

Prestige Consumer Healthcare Inc. Common Stock

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Pfizer

Dr. Reddy's Laboratories Ltd Common Stock

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Regencell Bioscience Holdings Limited - Ordinary Shares

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Royalty Pharma plc - Class A Ordinary Shares

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Sanofi

Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited American Depositary Shares (each representing 1/2 of a share of Common Stock)

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