Bayer reported that asundexian met the primary endpoint in a Phase III trial, reducing ischemic stroke recurrence when added to standard antiplatelet therapy in a large secondary‑prevention population. The Oceanic Stroke readout reduced the risk of ischemic stroke versus placebo without increasing major bleeding, marking a pivotal clinical milestone for Factor XIa (FXIa) inhibitors. The result revives investor and clinical interest in the FXIa class after previous setbacks for rivals. Bayer plans to release detailed data at an upcoming scientific meeting and to engage regulators about potential approval filings. If corroborated by full data, asundexian could become a new oral antithrombotic option with a differentiated safety profile. Market reaction was swift: Bayer shares jumped on the topline announcement as analysts priced in a significant commercial opportunity in stroke secondary prevention.