German pharmaceutical giant Merck announced Monday that it has reached an agreement to acquire US-based SpringWorks Therapeutics for approximately $3.9 billion, as part of a strategic push to strengthen its oncology portfolio and expand its footprint in the U.S. market, reads a Bloomberg post.
In a statement, Merck said SpringWorks, headquartered in Connecticut, accepted its offer of $47 per share. The deal, valued at around $3.9 billion in equity, is expected to significantly boost Merck’s capabilities in the treatment of rare tumors and enhance its sales prospects in the oncology field.
"The planned acquisition will strengthen the presence of Merck Healthcare in the U.S. and expand the reach of SpringWorks’ therapeutic innovations to more patients with rare tumors worldwide," the company said.
Under the terms of the agreement, Merck will pay $47 per share in cash, representing a 26% premium to SpringWorks' average share price over the 20 trading days preceding February 7, 2025 — the day before news of the potential acquisition first emerged.
The transaction, pending regulatory approvals, is expected to close in the second half of 2025.
Merck Group CEO Belen Garijo described the acquisition as a significant milestone in the company's broader strategic plan.
"The agreed acquisition of SpringWorks is a major step in our active portfolio strategy to position Merck as a globally diversified, innovation and technology powerhouse. For our Healthcare sector, it sharpens the focus on rare tumors, accelerates growth, and strengthens our presence in the U.S.," Garijo said.
She added that Merck will continue to pursue mergers and acquisitions across its three key business sectors, with a focus on strategic alignment, financial strength, and long-term value creation.
Bd-pratidin English/ Jisan
