Each week we highlight five things affecting the life sciences industry. Here’s the latest.
Biotech CEOs discuss the highs and lows of a successful IPO
- Speaking at a conference last week, CEOs of three biotechs that closed initial public offerings in 2024 spoke about the process of managing an IPO in a tough climate.
- They covered many areas of their journeys including investor relations, crossover financing rounds, selecting bankers and attorneys, and ensuring their audits were at public company standards, as reported by Biopharma Dive.
Possible 25% tariffs on pharmaceutical products announced
- The Wall Street Journal reports that a proposed 25% or higher tariffs on pharmaceutical products, as well as products related to other industries, was announced. The tariffs may increase over time, with a possible phase-in period for U.S. companies to relocate production domestically.
- This proposal may go into effect on April 1 at the earliest. Companies should continue to monitor updates.
FDA layoffs spark medtech regulatory concerns
- Recent layoffs at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration have impacted employees reviewing medical devices, raising concerns about regulatory delays and safety oversight.
- According to MassDevice, industry leaders worry that the cuts could hinder innovation and compromise the U.S.’s global position in medtech.
Childhood vaccine schedule to be reviewed
- Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., the newly appointed Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, has announced plans to examine the current childhood vaccine schedule, despite earlier commitments to maintain existing recommendations.
- According to the Associated Press, this decision has raised concerns among health experts given Kennedy’s history of anti-vaccine advocacy.
AI biotechs partner with Indigenous groups for ethical bioprospecting
- Artificial intelligence biotech companies are forming benefit-sharing agreements with Indigenous communities to ethically explore biodiversity hotspots, gathering DNA and protein sequences for commercial use.
- According to Nature Biotechnology, this approach aims to avoid historical biopiracy issues by ensuring revenue sharing and supporting local research initiatives.
For more insights in life sciences, check out RSM’s industry outlook.
