U.S. pharmaceutical giant Pfizer has announced a definitive agreement to acquire Metsera, a biotech company focused on developing treatments for obesity and cardiovascular diseases, in a deal valued at $4.9 billion.
The acquisition, revealed on Monday, is seen as Pfizer’s strategic entry into the booming weight-loss drug market, which has seen explosive growth driven by the popularity of medications like Ozempic, Wegovy (Novo Nordisk), and Zepbound (Eli Lilly).
“Obesity is a large and growing space, with over 200 associated health conditions,” said Pfizer CEO Albert Bourla. “This acquisition reflects our continued commitment to investing in the most impactful opportunities, and it marks our entry into a vital therapeutic area.”
Under the terms of the agreement, Pfizer will purchase all outstanding shares of Metsera common stock at $47.50 per share, with the transaction expected to close in Q4 of 2025, pending regulatory approval and customary closing conditions.
The deal positions Pfizer to challenge market leaders in the obesity drug space and diversify its pipeline following the post-pandemic downturn in COVID-19 vaccine revenue.
Pfizer rose to global prominence after being among the first to deliver a highly successful COVID-19 vaccine, but its share price has dropped significantly in the post-pandemic market, from $58 in December 2021 to $24 as of last Friday’s close on the New York Stock Exchange.
The acquisition of Metsera could signal a major pivot for the company as it seeks new growth drivers amid declining COVID-related profits.
Following the announcement, Pfizer’s stock gained 1.6% in pre-market trading Monday, while Metsera’s shares surged by 60%, reflecting investor confidence in the deal and excitement over Metsera’s obesity-focused drug candidates.
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