BY Fraser Tennant
In a deal that expands its brain tumour treatment portfolio, French drugmaker Servier is to acquire US-based Day One Biopharmaceuticals for approximately $2.5bn.
Under the terms of the definitive agreement, Servier will acquire Day One for $21.50 per share in cash, a premium of 68 percent to the stock’s last close. Servier expects to fund the transaction through existing cash and investments.
Upon completion, the acquisition will reinforce Servier’s position in oncology targeted therapies in line with its 2030 ambition to develop innovative treatments for patients with high unmet medical needs. It will also strengthen Servier’s portfolio and expand its oncology pipeline with programmes ranging from early stage to phase three.
Importantly, the deal gives Servier access to Day One’s Ojemda, the only US Food and Drug Administration-approved monotherapy for pediatric low-grade glioma, the most common form of brain tumor in children. Ojemda was approved in 2024 in patients whose tumors progressed after prior treatment. It is now being tested as a first-line therapy, with trial results expected in the second half of 2027.
“This transaction reflects our long-term commitment to investing in science that can make a meaningful difference for patients,” said Olivier Laureau, president of Servier. “It is fully aligned with our 2030 ambition, and we believe that combining our expertise will accelerate innovation for people living with a rare cancer.”
According to Day One, Servier’s dedication to the rare disease community preserves the patient-first mindset that has defined Day One and driven its deep commitment to the communities it serves.
“Servier's successful track record in rare cancers and its commitment to advancing targeted therapies makes it the ideal home for our portfolio as part of Day One’s mission to bring medicines to patients of all ages with life threatening diseases,” said Jeremy Bender, chief executive of Day One. “Joining Servier represents a unique opportunity to extend the reach of our science and our lead program in pediatric low-grade glioma.”
The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions and is expected to close in the second quarter of 2026.
Mr Laureau concluded: “The acquisition of Day One Biopharmaceuticals marks another decisive step in strengthening Servier’s position in rare oncology.”
News: Servier to buy Day One Biopharma for $2.5 billion in tumor treatment push