Gene Therapy-Focused Bluebird Bio Receives Rival Takeover Offer, Stock Jumps

Core Viewpoint - Ayrmid Ltd. has made an unsolicited proposal to acquire Bluebird Bio, offering $4.50 per share in cash and a contingent value right of$6.84 per share based on net sales milestones [1] Group 1: Acquisition Proposals - Ayrmid's proposal includes an upfront cash payment of $4.50 per share and a one-time contingent value right of$6.84 per share [1] - In February 2025, Bluebird entered into a definitive agreement with Carlyle and SK Capital Partners for an acquisition at $3.00 per share in cash, also with a contingent value right of$6.84 per share [2] - Bluebird previously engaged in discussions with Ayrmid during a strategic review but did not receive a proposal at that time [3] Group 2: Regulatory Concerns - The FDA raised concerns in November 2024 regarding life-threatening hematologic malignancies associated with Bluebird's gene therapy Skysona, with reports of myelodysplastic syndrome and acute myeloid leukemia linked to the treatment [4] - Cases of these malignancies were reported to emerge 14 to 92 months post-treatment during clinical trials [4] Group 3: Market Reaction - Following the news, Bluebird's stock price increased by 7.84%, reaching $4.40 [4]