Johnson & Johnson has struck a definitive agreement to acquire Halda Therapeutics, a clinical-stage biotech company, for USD 3.05 billion in cash. Halda is known for its proprietary RIPTAC™ platform, which enables the development of oral, precision cancer therapies. Its lead candidate, HLD-0915, is being developed for prostate cancer, with early clinical data showing promising anti-tumor activity along with a favorable safety profile.

The acquisition also brings into J&J’s fold several early-stage programs targeting solid tumours such as breast and lung cancer. According to J&J, Halda’s technology can “selectively kill” cancer cells by engaging tumour-specific markers while sparing healthy cells—potentially overcoming common resistance mechanisms in cancer.

This move marks a continued push by J&J into high-growth oncology segments. Executives say the deal will help round out J&J’s cancer pipeline and accelerate the development of a novel treatment modality. The transaction is expected to close in the coming months, subject to regulatory approvals and other customary closing conditions.