Genmab is set to acquire Dutch biotech Merus for approximately $8 billion in cash, gaining full rights to a promising bispecific antibody targeting head and neck cancer. Merus’ petosemtamab drug demonstrated a preliminary survival benefit in combination with Merck’s Keytruda in a Phase 2 trial and is currently in Phase 3 testing. This acquisition bolsters Genmab’s late-stage cancer drug portfolio and aligns with its strategy to strengthen its immuno-oncology pipeline. Industry analysts have welcomed the deal as a significant expansion for Genmab.