Abbott Closes $21B Exact Sciences Deal After 130% Rally
Abbott has officially closed its $21 billion purchase of Exact Sciences, finalizing a transaction that followed a pronounced rally in EXAS shares. Investors in Exact Sciences enjoyed strong returns—about a 130% climb over the twelve months leading into Abbott’s bid—before the deal completed on March 24, 2026, and the diagnostic firm is now part of Abbott’s broader portfolio.
The acquisition underscores continued consolidation in diagnostics and cancer screening, and it delivered immediate gains to EXAS holders while reshaping strategic positioning for Abbott (ABT). Market participants should watch integration progress and potential synergies, as successful assimilation of Exact Sciences’ technology will determine how much value the deal ultimately creates for Abbott shareholders and influence future M&A activity in the sector.