Intra-Cellular Soars Over 30% Premarket as J&J Announces $14.6 Billion Acquisition

Johnson & Johnson (J&J) has announced its agreement to acquire Intra-Cellular Therapies Inc., a biopharmaceutical company specializing in treatments for central nervous system disorders, for approximately $14.6 billion. The acquisition price of $132 per share represents a 40% premium over Intra-Cellular's closing price last Friday. J&J plans to fund the transaction using a combination of cash on hand and debt, with the deal expected to close later this year.

Intra-Cellular is renowned for its innovative therapies targeting mental health disorders and neurological diseases. The company is currently advancing a late-stage clinical trial for a promising treatment for major depressive disorder, which could significantly expand its market footprint if successful.

Market commentators have highlighted that health-care dealmaking is rebounding following a subdued 2024. Earlier this month, medical device manufacturer Stryker Corp. agreed to acquire Inari Medical Inc. for approximately $4.9 billion, signaling renewed activity in the sector.