Core Insights - Abivax, a French biotech company, is expected to be acquired by a larger pharmaceutical company in a deal potentially worth $23 billion, following a remarkable 1,681% increase in its stock price last year [1] - The company's stock surged 510% in a single day after positive results from a late-stage trial for its ulcerative colitis treatment, indicating strong market interest and potential for strategic acquisition [2] - Abivax's lead asset, obefazimod, was initially developed for HIV but has shown promise for inflammatory bowel disease, attracting attention from major pharmaceutical companies like Eli Lilly [3] Company Performance - Abivax's stock price fluctuated between 10 and 20 euros since its listing in 2015, but it experienced significant growth in 2025, particularly after trial results exceeded expectations [2] - The company is currently seen as a strategic acquisition target for larger firms with immunology and inflammation portfolios, given its promising drug development [2][3] Market Expectations - Analysts predict that a deal for Abivax could occur imminently, with expectations that the stock will trade within its current range until the upcoming JP Morgan Healthcare Conference, where major deals are often announced [4][5] - The acquisition of biotech firms like Abivax is common as larger pharmaceutical companies seek to leverage their infrastructure for drug commercialization [4]