Merck KGaA is avoiding big pipeline bets as it moves on from bintrafusp alfa

Following late-stage clinical disappointments for bintrafusp alfa, Merck KGaA’s healthcare business is rethinking its risk tolerance and deploying a new pipeline strategy that prioritizes advancing assets in validated indications over launching expansive clinical programs.

Peter Guenter, who became CEO of healthcare at Merck KGaA (Xetra: MRK) just over a year ago, told BioCentury his vision for the company’s pipeline growth involves applying lessons learned from its immuno-oncology miss...