Abbott Clears Major Hurdle in $21 Billion Exact Sciences Acquisition

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Germany’s Federal Cartel Office (Bundeskartellamt) has granted unconditional approval for Abbott Laboratories' proposed takeover of Exact Sciences, providing a significant boost for the $21 billion diagnostic sector deal. The decision, announced yesterday, removes one of the final major regulatory obstacles facing the merger.

• Offer Price: $105 per share
• Total Deal Value: Approximately $21 billion
• Regulatory Approval: German Cartel Office (Granted yesterday)
• Expected Closing: Second quarter of 2026

The competition authority issued its clearance following a preliminary review, eliminating the need for an in-depth, phase-two investigation. Regulators concluded that the transaction would not harm market competition, citing the distinct product portfolios of the two firms. Abbott’s core operations are in general diagnostics and medical devices, whereas Exact Sciences specializes in genetic cancer screening. The watchdog determined that their products are not direct substitutes and therefore pose no threat to the existing market structure.

Announced in November 2025, the acquisition aims to integrate Exact Sciences' early detection tests, including its leading Cologuard product line, into Abbott’s global commercial infrastructure. This move is strategically designed to accelerate Abbott’s growth within the high-value oncology market.

Market Sentiment and Strategic Rationale

Following the regulatory news, Exact Sciences' equity saw a marginal increase of 0.04%, closing at $102.34. The stock continues to trade steadily just below the all-cash offer price of $105 per share, reflecting strong market confidence in the deal's successful completion. Shares of Abbott Laboratories experienced a more pronounced gain, rising 3.03% on the same day.

For Abbott, the purchase represents a strategic pivot to bolster its portfolio by entering the premium oncology segment, thereby offsetting softer performance in its nutrition business. With the German approval secured, focus now shifts to completing the remaining administrative formalities. Company leadership anticipates finalizing the integration of Exact Sciences by the close of Q2 2026.