- Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany to acquire SpringWorks Therapeutics (SWTX, Financial) for $3.9 billion.
- The acquisition includes a purchase price of $47 per share, a 26% premium over SpringWorks' average price.
- The deal aims to boost Merck's healthcare business and strengthen its presence in rare tumors.
Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany (DAX: MRK), a prominent science and technology entity, has announced a definitive agreement to acquire SpringWorks Therapeutics, Inc. (Nasdaq: SWTX), a commercial biopharmaceutical organization based in Stamford, Connecticut. The acquisition, valued at $3.9 billion (€3.0 billion), is set at $47 per share in cash, marking a 26% premium over the 20-day volume-weighted average price of SpringWorks at $37.38 prior to any market speculation. This strategic move will enable Merck to expand its healthcare sector, particularly focusing on rare tumor treatments.
SpringWorks Therapeutics is recognized for its innovative therapies, including OGSIVEO® (nirogacestat), the FDA-approved systemic standard of care for desmoid tumors, and GOMEKLI™ (mirdametinib), the only approved therapy for neurofibromatosis type 1-associated plexiform neurofibromas (NF1-PN). The acquisition is anticipated to drive immediate revenue growth and enhance Merck's footprint in the U.S., the largest pharmaceutical market globally. The transaction, expected to close in the latter half of 2025, has received unanimous approval from the boards of both companies, pending customary closing conditions and regulatory consents.
Merck plans to finance the transaction through a combination of cash and new debt, while maintaining its investment-grade credit rating. This acquisition aligns with Merck's broader acquisition strategy focused on external innovations and value creation within its healthcare business. Furthermore, Merck aims to leverage SpringWorks' portfolio to advance its leadership in rare tumor therapies and explore further investments in this domain. The collaborative potential of this acquisition highlights the shared commitment of both organizations to provide transformative solutions for patients worldwide.
