02.06.2025

Strategic Partnership: BioNTech and Bristol Myers Squibb in the Development of BNT327

A Significant Billion-Dollar Deal

On June 2, 2025, BioNTech entered into a strategically important billion-dollar deal with the US pharmaceutical company Bristol Myers Squibb (BMS). At the core of the partnership is the experimental cancer drug BNT327. This contract could significantly impact BioNTech’s future revenue opportunities.

Partnership Details

  • Subject: The co-development and marketing of the bispecific antibody drug BNT327, which targets PD-L1 and VEGF.
  • Financial Terms:
    • Upfront Payment: $1.5 billion from Bristol Myers to BioNTech.
    • Annual Payments: Up to $2 billion annually until 2028.
    • Milestone Payments: Up to $7.6 billion based on development, approval, and marketing milestones.
  • Cost Sharing: Development costs as well as profits and losses will be shared on a 50:50 basis.

Strategic Importance

This collaboration strengthens both companies in the high-growth market for bispecific antibodies in oncology.

  • Innovation Potential: Development of BNT327 as monotherapies and in combination; further research into other indications and combinations.
  • Wide Application: The drug is being developed for various solid tumors, which offers enormous market potential.
  • Pooling of Expertise: Combines BioNTech’s innovation with BMS’s experience in oncology.

Outlook for Investors

Investors perceive this deal as a sign of BioNTech’s pipeline expansion, with robust potential for global markets.

  • Growth Opportunities: Strengthening of the pipeline and global reach.
  • Financial Security: Through upfront and milestone payments.
  • Strategic Positioning: Innovative position alongside mRNA therapies.

Prof. Ugur Sahin, CEO of BioNTech, highlights the potential of BNT327 as a fundamental basis for new immuno-oncology therapies.

Conclusion

The deal between BioNTech and Bristol Myers Squibb marks a turning point in cancer treatment, offering financial security and long-term growth potential.