Core Points - Cidara Therapeutics (CDTX.US) shares surged over 105% to a new eight-year high of $217.8 following the announcement of a definitive agreement for acquisition by Merck (MRK.US) at $221.50 per share in cash [1] - The total value of the transaction is approximately $9.2 billion, and it has been approved by the boards of both companies [1] - The acquisition is subject to the approval of the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act (HSR) and other customary closing conditions, with an expected completion in the first quarter of 2026 [1] - Merck's research laboratories president, Dr. D. Lee, stated that this acquisition expands and enhances their respiratory product portfolio and R&D pipeline [1]

Core Points - Cidara Therapeutics (CDTX.US) shares surged over 105% to a new eight-year high of $217.8 following the announcement of a definitive agreement for acquisition by Merck (MRK.US) at $221.50 per share in cash [1] - The total value of the transaction is approximately $9.2 billion, and it has been approved by the boards of both companies [1] - The acquisition is subject to the approval of the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act (HSR) and other customary closing conditions, with an expected completion in Q1 2026 [1] - Merck's President of Research Laboratories, Dr. Dean Li, stated that this acquisition enhances and expands their respiratory product portfolio and R&D pipeline [1]