BioNTech Faces Legal Challenge Amid Strategic Acquisition Finalization

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A new patent infringement lawsuit filed by Bayer AG has introduced fresh uncertainty for BioNTech SE investors, even as the German biotech firm completes a major strategic acquisition. The dual developments highlight the contrasting forces shaping the company's path forward.

On Tuesday, Bayer's Monsanto unit initiated legal proceedings against BioNTech and its partner Pfizer in a federal court in Delaware. The complaint centers on foundational technology for the COVID-19 vaccine Comirnaty. Bayer contends that the companies employed patented methods originally developed by Monsanto in the 1980s for stabilizing mRNA in plants. According to the filing, this specific technology was allegedly used to enhance the vaccine's stability and efficacy.

While Bayer is not seeking to halt production, it is pursuing compensation for damages and demanding royalty payments on past and future Comirnaty revenues. Given the vaccine's cumulative sales exceeding $93 billion, the potential financial implications are significant. This lawsuit adds another layer to BioNTech's existing complex patent landscape, which includes an ongoing dispute with Moderna.

CureVac Integration Officially Complete

In a separate operational milestone, BioNTech has formally concluded its takeover of CureVac. As of January 6, 2026, the Tübingen-based biotech company is wholly owned by the Mainz-based firm, and CureVac's stock has been delisted. This move is a strategic effort to bolster BioNTech's oncology division. The integration provides BioNTech with expanded mRNA design capabilities and access to promising new candidates for cancer immunotherapy.

Financial Resilience Provides a Buffer

These announcements arrive during a period of market volatility. BioNTech shares declined nearly 11% over the past week, with the current price at €85.70. However, the company's strong balance sheet offers a considerable cushion. With approximately $16.7 billion in liquid assets reported at the end of the third quarter of 2025, BioNTech remains in a solid financial position. This substantial reserve equips management to fund both the ongoing CureVac integration and a vigorous legal defense against Bayer's claims.

Investor attention now turns to Tuesday, January 13, 2026, when BioNTech is scheduled to outline its strategic priorities for the year. The market anticipates updates on the company's development pipeline and, crucially, insight into how leadership plans to navigate the balance between operational growth and mounting legal challenges.