Bristol Myers Squibb To Acquire Orbital Therapeutics In $1.5B Deal

Bristol Myers Squibb (BMY) on Friday announced a definitive agreement to acquire privately held RNA-focused biotech firm Orbital Therapeutics, in an all-cash deal, valued at $1.5 billion. 

The acquisition includes Orbital’s lead experimental therapy, known as OTX-201, which uses circular RNA to enable in-body production of CD19-targeting CAR T-cells through lipid nanoparticle delivery.

Following the announcement, Bristol Myers stock inched 0.3% higher in Friday’s premarket. On Stocktwits, retail sentiment around the stock remained in ‘neutral’ territory. Message volume shifted to ‘normal’ from ‘high’ levels in 24 hours. 

“In vivo CAR T represents a novel treatment approach that could redefine how we treat autoimmune diseases,” said executive vice president, Chief Research Officer, BMS, Robert Plenge. “This acquisition enhances our robust cell therapy research platform and provides an opportunity to advance a potential best-in-class therapy designed to deplete autoreactive B cells and reset the immune system.” 

Additionally, Bristol will also acquire Orbital Therapeutics’ RNA platform that blends linear and circular RNA engineering with advanced delivery systems and AI tools to build programmable therapies. 

“With the acquisition of Orbital Therapeutics and its next-generation RNA platform, we have an incredible opportunity to make CAR T-cell therapy more efficient and accessible to more patients,” said Lynelle B. Hoch, president, Cell Therapy Organization, BMS.

For now, both companies will continue to operate independently until regulatory clearances are met, including the expiration of the waiting period under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Act.

Bristol Myers stock has shed 21% in 2025 and over 14% in the last 12 months. 

Also See: Applied Digital Stock On Track To Hit Over 21-Year Highs

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