On May 2, 2022 Sema4 (Nasdaq: SMFR), an AI-driven genomic and clinical data intelligence platform company, reported it has completed the acquisition of GeneDx, LLC ("GeneDx"), a leader in genomic testing and analysis for rare disorders, from OPKO Health, Inc. (Nasdaq: OPK) ("OPKO") (Press release, Opko Health, MAY 2, 2022, View Source [SID1234613353]). The transaction establishes Sema4 as one of the largest and most advanced providers of genomic testing in the U.S. and further strengthens its health information database to transform patient care and improve therapeutic development. The acquisition accelerates Sema4’s ability to deliver precision medicine while driving efficiency in its platform.
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Sema4 has streamlined its management team to enable focused execution across its top business priorities, including expanded molecular testing and data-driven health system and biopharma partnerships. Katherine Stueland, former President and CEO of GeneDx and former Chief Commercial Officer of Invitae, will serve as Sema4’s CEO and will serve on Sema4’s Board of Directors. Ms. Stueland brings more than 25 years of experience in the healthcare industry, having overseen multiple commercial organizations and corporate brand transformations.
"I am delighted to have the opportunity to lead Sema4 as we embark on this next chapter for the combined company, with a focus on growth, operating efficiency, scaling toward profitability, and transformational partnerships," said Ms. Stueland. "Our vision is to accelerate the use of genomics and leverage large-scale clinical data to enhance the standard of care through extensive precision medicine solutions. I look forward to realizing that vision with Sema4’s unmatched health intelligence platform, enabling comprehensive family health, from planning a pregnancy through every stage of life."
"The combined company has excellent momentum heading into the remainder of this year," continued Ms. Stueland. "We look forward to providing a comprehensive financial update and forward looking guidance during our first quarter earnings conference call on May 12th."
Eric Schadt, PhD, Sema4’s Founder, will serve as President and Chief Research & Development Officer, reporting to Ms. Stueland, and will continue to serve on the Board of Directors.
"We are very excited to add GeneDx’s complementary capabilities and are equally thrilled to welcome Katherine as our new CEO, given her extensive leadership, commercial, and operational experience," said Dr. Schadt. "This transformative evolution in the scale of our business positions Sema4 to further revolutionize patient care and to provide more holistic support to health system and biopharma partners. I am excited by the opportunity to redouble my efforts to drive our data platform forward and transform not only clinical practice but the way biopharma companies use data to drive innovation."
Summary of Transaction Details
Under the terms of the agreement, Sema4 has acquired GeneDx for an upfront payment of $150 million in cash, subject to adjustment, plus 80.0 million shares of Sema4’s Class A common stock, with up to an additional $150 million revenue-based milestones over the next two years (which will be payable in cash or shares of Sema4 Class A common stock at Sema4’s discretion). Based on the closing stock price of Sema4’s Class A common stock as of April 29, 2022, the trading date on the closing of the transaction, the total upfront consideration represents approximately $322 million, and the total aggregate consideration including potential milestones is approximately $472 million.
The transaction was announced on January 18, 2022 and received approval from Sema4 stockholders on April 27, 2022.
In connection with the transaction, Sema4 has also closed a private placement financing in which it sold $200 million of Sema4’s Class A common stock at a price of $4.00 per share with a syndicate of institutional investors, including Pfizer.