Abivax (ABVX), a French biotech firm, has become the top acquisition candidate among biotechs in 2026, according to a Truist Securities (TFC) survey. Notably, the company was mentioned by 44% of surveyed investors (22 mentions in total), far more than any other biotech name. This strong investor interest is in part due to reports that Eli Lilly (LLY) may be considering a takeover, largely thanks to Abivax’s promising lead drug, obefazimod, which targets inflammatory diseases like ulcerative colitis.
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Interestingly, Abivax stock has soared this year by 1,600%, especially after seeing strong Phase 3 results for obefazimod in July. As a result, Truist maintained its Buy rating and $140 price target, noting that excitement around the company will continue into 2026. Separately, other potential acquisition targets were:
- Revolution Medicines (RVMD), mentioned by just 8% of investors
- CG Oncology (CGON), mentioned by 6% of investors
- Centessa Pharmaceuticals (CNTA), which was also mentioned by just 6% of investors
At the other end of the spectrum, Madrigal Pharmaceuticals (MDGL), the developer of MASH therapy Rezdiffra, was named the least likely buyout target. Following behind were:
This led Truist to conclude that “the data show a clear concentration of acquisition expectations around ABVX,” suggesting that investors view it as a strong strategic fit for a buyer.
Is ABVX Stock a Good Buy?
Overall, analysts have a Strong Buy consensus rating on ABVX stock based on nine Buys assigned in the past three months, as indicated by the graphic below. Furthermore, the average ABVX price target of $146.38 per share implies 5.4% upside potential.
