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Bristol Myers Deny Building |
AstraZeneca, Bristol Myers Say No Merger Talks Are Underway
LONDON — August 5, 2026
AstraZeneca and Bristol Myers Squibb are not holding discussions about a potential merger, according to people familiar with the matter, dismissing speculation about a possible deal between the two global pharmaceutical companies.
A senior source close to the situation said there is no agreement between the companies, no merger under negotiation, and no active discussions taking place. Another person familiar with the matter also confirmed that no talks are currently underway.
Both AstraZeneca and Bristol Myers Squibb declined to comment on reports about a possible transaction.
The clarification follows recent market speculation that the companies had explored a combination that could have created one of the world's largest pharmaceutical businesses, with a combined market value approaching $400 billion.
Earlier reports of preliminary discussions prompted strong reactions from investors. AstraZeneca's shares fell sharply after the speculation emerged, marking the company's largest one-day decline in several years, while Bristol Myers Squibb's shares showed little immediate movement.
Following confirmation that no discussions are currently taking place, AstraZeneca shares recovered, rising about 2.9% during trading. Bristol Myers Squibb shares fell approximately 2.6%.
Some AstraZeneca investors had questioned whether such a large acquisition would fit the company's long-term strategy. Under Chief Executive Pascal Soriot, AstraZeneca has delivered strong growth through the expansion of its medicines portfolio and targeted acquisitions rather than pursuing large-scale mergers.
One person familiar with the matter also noted that if formal negotiations on a transaction of this size had been ongoing, UK market regulations would likely have required a public announcement.
At present, there is no indication that either company is pursuing a merger, and no official plans for a deal have been announced.
