Idenix Pharmaceuticals (IDIX)

[DewDiligence]

If nvs cuts bait…

Cut what bait? NVS is not currently partnered with IDIX on any development programs.

If you’re talking about NVS cutting or reducing its equity stake, the only realistic way that could happen if is NVS sold its entire stake to another Big Pharma in a block transaction. They certainly aren’t going to dump 31M shares on the open market.

Moreover, I think NVS wants to be a player in HCV and will seek a second HCV compound for its antiviral salesforce to sell in addition to Albuferon. A NVS license of IDX184 is pretty likely, IMO.

p.s. I see today’s VRTX deal as a modest negative for IDIX.