Alexion Pharmaceuticals, a global biopharmaceutical company focused on serving patients and families affected by rare diseases, has agreed to a $855m acquisition of all outstanding shares in Stockholm-based Wilson Therapeutics by way of a tender offer, through a wholly-owned subsidiary. Advokatfirman Cederquist is acting as Alexion’s legal advisor as to Swedish law and Ropes & Gray  is acting as legal advisor as to US law in connection with the offer. Vinge is serving as legal counsel to Wilson Therapeutics.

Shareholders agree

The transaction, expected to close in the second quarter of 2018, was agreed by the Wilson Therapeutics' board which has unanimously recommended that its shareholders accept the offer. Alexion's board of directors also unanimously approved the offer. Alexion has obtained shareholder support agreements from the four largest shareholders, and two additional shareholders, while another shareholder Polar Capital has also expressed intent to accept the offer.

Deal offers global treatment

Wilson Therapeutics is a biopharmaceutical company, based in Stockholm, which develops novel therapies for patients with rare copper-mediated disorders. Wilson Therapeutics’ product, WTX101, is in Phase 3 development as a treatment for Wilson disease, a rare genetic disorder with devastating hepatic and neurological consequences for patients. Ludwig Hantson, chief executive officer of Alexion said: 'The acquisition of Wilson Therapeutics is a strong strategic fit for Alexion given the overlap with our current clinical and commercial focus on metabolic and neurologic disorders, and is an important first step in rebuilding our clinical pipeline.'