Merck's Potential Buyout Of Seagen Expected Within Next Few Weeks: Report

• Merck & Co Inc (NYSE: MRK) is in advanced talks to acquire Seagen Inc (NASDAQ: SGEN), and an agreement on a purchase is expected in the next few weeks, Wall Street Journal reported citing people familiar with the matter.

• The potential deal could be worth roughly $40 billion or more.

• Related: Merck/Seagen Potential Deal Talks Pick Up Speed.

• The report added that the companies are discussing a price for Seagen above $200 a share.

• There is still no guarantee that the companies will reach an agreement on a takeover deal.

• The transaction can help offset the lower Merck sales when its flagship product Keytruda loses patent protection.

• According to Cowen estimates, Keytruda could approach 40% of Merck’s sales in 2027.

• Also Read: This Analyst Believes Seagen Is Evaluating Strategic Alternatives.

• Any proposed deal is expected to draw a close look from antitrust officials, with Cowen analysts recently predicting “a high likelihood” of litigation from the Justice Department or the Federal Trade Commission.

• Price Action: SGEN shares are up 4.35% at $182.75 during the premarket session on the last check Thursday.

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