The Readout Loud 383: JPM to bring more deals and happy CEOs
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Jan 8, 2026 Damian Garde, a reporter at large for STAT and former co-host, joins to dive into the excitement surrounding the J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference. He reveals why pharma CEOs are optimistic about upcoming deals and discusses the recent FDA approval of Novo Nordisk's Wegovy pill. The conversation also touches on changes to pediatric immunizations and the landscape of biotech mergers and acquisitions, including the buzz around Revolution Medicines. Garde highlights the evolving pharma sentiments and the impact of White House agreements on pricing and tariffs.
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Holiday Cooking Gone Wrong (But Ribs Saved It)
- Elaine Chen described getting sick over Christmas but still cooking extensively, making duck and ribs.
- Two ducks spoiled so she pivoted to ribs with mint sauce and considered the holiday mostly pleasant.
M&A Momentum Returns To Biotech
- M&A has already restarted with big buys like Lilly for Ventix and Amgen for Dark Blue.
- Revolution Medicines is reportedly in play, and any sale could become a marquee early-year deal.
Pharma Secured Political Relief
- Pharma struck deals with the White House that eased threats of tariffs and aggressive price cuts.
- That détente has left big drugmakers cash‑rich and confident heading into JP Morgan week.