Bayer reported top-line Phase 3 results showing oral factor XIa inhibitor asundexian reduced the risk of recurrent ischemic stroke without increasing major bleeding in the Oceanic Stroke study of over 12,000 patients. The company said it will present detailed data at a scientific meeting and is discussing regulatory paths with authorities. Investors rewarded the readout with a double-digit stock rally. The success provides a major proof-of-concept for FXIa inhibition after prior setbacks in the class and strengthens competing programs from Bristol Myers/Janssen (milvexian) and Novartis (abelacimab) that are in late-stage testing.