Abivax SAUpdated Phase 3 data for obefazimod alleviated safety concerns and reinforced efficacy confidence

Jefferies upgraded Abivax to Buy from Hold and raised its price target to $158 from $108 after updated Phase 3 data for its lead drug candidate obefazimod alleviated concerns over previously reported malignancy cases and reinforced confidence in the therapy's efficacy. The brokerage said the latest ABTECT Part 2 update removed a key overhang on the stock, with management's explanation of the safety data and continued improvements in efficacy strengthening the investment case. Details disclosed suggest the non-melanoma malignancy cases are unlikely to be treatment-related, while any risk of non-melanoma skin cancer could likely be addressed through a warning label and monitoring recommendations rather than posing a significant regulatory obstacle. Obefazimod continues to demonstrate a strong efficacy profile in ulcerative colitis, particularly in maintenance treatment, with endoscopic remission data supporting its anti-inflammatory effects, increasing confidence ahead of Phase 2 Crohn's disease data expected in mid-2027. While Jefferies believes a strategic acquisition remains the preferred path given commercial demands, it sees Abivax having options to address its cash runway and further upside from regulatory progress and growing investor appreciation of the clinical data.
Abivax SAUpdated Phase 3 data for obefazimod alleviated safety concerns and reinforced efficacy confidence
Jefferies Financial Group Inc