Episode 178 - April 3, 2026

The Biotech Hangout discusses current sentiment and outlook for the biotech industry, highlighting the impact of macro factors like global conflicts and interest rates on investor confidence. Despite Q1 choppiness driven by macro uncertainties, biotech has significantly outperformed the S&P 500, driven by strong micro factors such as positive data sets, open financing windows, and M&A activity. The conversation covers Biogen's acquisition of Apellis, noting the high premium paid and strategic focus on renal disease, and Eli Lilly's acquisition of Centessa Pharmaceuticals, emphasizing the significant potential in the orexin space for sleep disorders. The panel also explores blood-brain barrier technologies, spotlighting companies like Corsana and Denali and their efforts to enhance drug delivery for neurodegenerative diseases.