October 27, 2025, Swiss pharmaceutical giant Novartis revealed that it has acquired Avidity Biosciences, a leading U.S.-based biotechnology firm, in a deal valued at $12 billion. This strategic acquisition is set to enhance Novartis’s portfolio in the rapidly evolving field of RNA-targeted therapies, which have the potential to revolutionize the treatment of various genetic diseases and cancers.
Avidity Biosciences has garnered recognition for its groundbreaking work in RNA-targeted therapies, particularly in developing drugs that can selectively target RNA molecules to treat previously hard-to-address conditions. The acquisition will allow Novartis to leverage Avidity’s innovative technologies and expand its capabilities in precision medicine, particularly in the oncology and rare disease sectors.
Following the announcement, Avidity’s stock experienced a notable surge, rising over 40%, reflecting investor optimism about the potential of the acquisition. The market’s positive reaction underscores the confidence in Novartis’s ability to integrate Avidity’s cutting-edge research into its broader strategy and accelerate the development of next-generation therapies.
The acquisition aligns with Novartis’s ongoing commitment to advancing in the field of precision medicine. By incorporating Avidity’s RNA-based platform, Novartis aims to broaden its range of treatment options, addressing unmet medical needs and positioning itself as a leader in the development of innovative therapies that can target the root causes of disease at the molecular level.
In a statement, Novartis emphasized the strategic fit of the acquisition, which will bolster its existing expertise in gene therapies and cell-based treatments. With Avidity’s cutting-edge technology and Novartis’s global reach and resources, the acquisition is expected to drive future growth and innovation in the pharmaceutical sector.
As Novartis moves forward with this acquisition, the company is expected to continue its focus on addressing some of the most challenging health conditions through innovative treatments, underscoring its commitment to improving patient outcomes and advancing the future of healthcare.
