Key Takeaways
- Major Acquisition Looms: Abbott Laboratories is in advanced discussions to acquire medical-testing company Exact Sciences Corp.
- Decade-Defining Deal: If finalized, the transaction would represent Abbott’s largest acquisition in nearly ten years.
- Strategic Expansion: The move would significantly bolster Abbott’s position in the lucrative cancer diagnostics market.
- Imminent Announcement?: According to sources familiar with the matter, a formal announcement could be made in the coming days, although discussions are ongoing.
Global healthcare giant Abbott Laboratories is on the verge of a landmark deal to acquire Exact Sciences Corp., a leader in cancer diagnostics, according to people familiar with the matter. The potential acquisition would be Abbott’s most significant strategic move in almost a decade, promising to reshape its diagnostics division.
A Landmark Deal in the Making
Discussions between the two companies have reportedly reached an advanced stage, with both parties now focused on finalizing the terms of the transaction. While the deal is not yet guaranteed, sources indicate that an official announcement could be just days away.
This move signals Abbott’s aggressive push to expand its footprint in the rapidly growing and highly competitive field of medical testing and diagnostics.
Who is Exact Sciences?
Madison, Wisconsin-based Exact Sciences has become a household name in the medical community, primarily known for its non-invasive Cologuard test for colorectal cancer. The company has built a strong portfolio of cancer screening and diagnostic products, focusing on early detection to improve patient outcomes.
Acquiring Exact Sciences would give Abbott immediate access to this established and trusted brand, along with its innovative pipeline of diagnostic technologies.
Strategic Fit for Abbott
For Abbott, a global leader in medical devices, diagnostics, and nutrition, this acquisition is a logical next step. It directly complements its existing diagnostics business, which saw significant growth during the COVID-19 pandemic with its rapid tests.
By integrating Exact Sciences’ cancer-focused portfolio, Abbott can diversify its offerings and capture a larger share of the oncology market—a key area of growth in healthcare. The deal would combine Abbott’s global scale and commercial power with Exact Sciences’ specialized expertise.
Market Implications and What’s Next
While neither Abbott nor Exact Sciences has officially commented on the reports, the news is expected to generate significant interest across the healthcare and financial markets. Such a large-scale acquisition would not only impact both companies’ stock values but also send ripples through the entire diagnostics industry.
If the deal proceeds, it will be closely watched by regulators and competitors alike, marking a pivotal moment in the evolution of cancer detection and treatment. The industry now waits for an official word, which could redefine the competitive landscape for years to come.
Image Referance: https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-11-19/abbott-weighs-takeover-of-cancer-test-maker-exact-sciences