Lazard Acts as Financial Advisor to Gilead Sciences in $1.275 Billion Acquisition of PepStar Program

Gilead Sciences has reached an agreement to acquire the PepStar program, which includes the investigational oral IL-23R inhibitor HCXT-2001, for $1.275 billion in upfront cash. Lazard is serving as the financial advisor for Gilead, while Centerview Partners LLC is advising PepStar. The acquisition is anticipated to close in the fourth quarter of 2026, pending customary closing conditions.