GMAB Stock Soars 21.9% in a Month Following MRUS Acquisition Deal

Core Insights - Genmab A/S (GMAB) shares have increased by 21.9% over the past month following the announcement of its acquisition of Merus N.V. (MRUS) for $97 per share, totaling approximately $8 billion [1][6] - The acquisition price represents a 41% premium over Merus' closing price of $68.89 on September 26, 2025, with the deal expected to close in early Q1 2026, pending customary conditions [2][3] Company Strategy - The acquisition of Merus signifies Genmab's strategic transition from a licensing-based model to a fully owned business framework, aimed at diversifying its revenue streams [3] - The addition of petosemtamab, Merus' lead late-stage oncology candidate, enhances Genmab's proprietary pipeline and aligns with its expertise in antibody therapy development [4][6] Growth Potential - Genmab anticipates multiple new drug launches by 2027 across various oncology indications, bolstering its long-term growth prospects [4] - Petosemtamab is projected to contribute at least $1 billion in annual sales by 2029, with potential for multi-billion-dollar revenue growth in subsequent years [10] Clinical Development - Petosemtamab is currently being evaluated in two phase III studies for head and neck cancer, with interim results expected in 2026 [9] - The candidate has received two Breakthrough Therapy designations from the FDA, indicating its potential as a first-in-class therapy for head and neck cancer [8]