Core Viewpoint - Zydus Lifesciences is considering acquiring a majority stake in US-based Ardelyx Inc., with the deal estimated to be valued between $2.2 billion and $2.5 billion, indicating a strategic move towards global innovative medicine [1][2]. Company Overview - Ardelyx Inc. is a biopharmaceutical company focused on developing first-in-class small-molecule drugs for gastrointestinal and cardio-renal diseases, addressing significant unmet patient needs. As of January 20, its market capitalization was $1.7 billion, with reported revenue of $378 million in 2025, reflecting an 18% increase [3]. Funding and Financial Strategy - The acquisition is expected to be financed through a ₹5,000-crore equity raise via a qualified institutional placement (QIP) and internal cash accruals, showcasing Zydus's commitment to expanding its innovative medicine portfolio [2]. Recent Acquisitions and Expansion - Zydus has been actively expanding its global presence through smaller acquisitions, including two biologics contract development and manufacturing facilities in the US for $75 million, and a 100% stake in French medical devices maker Amplitude Surgical for approximately €300 million, enhancing its capabilities in biologics and medtech [5][6]. Focus Areas in MedTech - The company has identified cardiology, nephrology, and orthopedics as key focus areas in the MedTech space, aiming to leverage Amplitude's portfolio to provide innovative solutions for diverse patient needs [7]. Consumer Wellness Segment - Zydus Wellness, a subsidiary, completed its first overseas acquisition by purchasing UK-based Comfort Click for around £239 million, indicating a strategic move into the consumer wellness market [8]. Competitive Landscape - The potential acquisition of Ardelyx comes amid reports of rival Sun Pharmaceutical's interest in acquiring Organon for approximately $10 billion, highlighting the competitive dynamics within the pharmaceutical industry [9]. Innovation and Clinical Development - Zydus is advancing its in-house innovation, with positive results from a Phase 2(b)/3 clinical trial of saroglitazar magnesium for primary biliary cirrhosis, and plans to file a new drug application with the US FDA in FY26 [11][12]. Financial Performance - Zydus reported a strong Q2 FY26 performance, with revenue increasing by about 17% year-on-year to approximately ₹6,100 crore and net profit rising nearly 38% to around ₹1,260 crore, driven by improved performance in its India and US formulation businesses [13][14].