After Announcing Assertio Acquisition, Zydus Lifesciences To Consider Share Buyback Proposal

Pharma major Zydus Lifesciences is set for a busy week as the company prepares to review a share buyback proposal and move ahead with a million-dollar acquisition in the United States.

The company said its board will consider a buyback of fully paid-up equity shares at its meeting on 19 May, where it will also announce its March quarter earnings. Meanwhile, the drugmaker has signed a definitive agreement to acquire US-based Assertio Holdings in a deal valued at nearly $166.4 million (₹1,590 crore).

On 14 May at 9:50 AM, Zydus Lifesciences shares were trading at ₹976.65, up 3.98%. The company’s stock has remained largely flat over the past month, slipping around 0.5%, although it has rallied 26% in the last three months and gained 43% over the past year. The stock touched a 52-week high of ₹1,059 in September 2025 and a low of ₹835.85 in March 2026.

What Will The Board Discuss On 19 May?

In an exchange filing issued on 13 May, Zydus said the proposed buyback would be examined in line with provisions under the Companies Act and SEBI’s buyback regulations. The discussion will take place during the same board meeting that was earlier scheduled to approve quarterly and annual financial results.

The company also informed investors that the trading window for directors and designated employees will stay closed until 21 May under insider trading norms. It will reopen from 22 May onwards.

Investors are now waiting for more clarity on the proposed buyback. Key details such as the size of the offer, record date, and mode of execution are expected if the board approves the proposal. Share buybacks are commonly used by companies to return surplus cash to shareholders and improve capital efficiency.

Zydus Expands US Oncology Presence

Alongside the buyback plan, Zydus has announced the acquisition of US-based Assertio Holdings, a pharmaceutical company focused on speciality and oncology supportive-care therapies. The deal will be carried out through Zydus Worldwide DMCC and its acquisition arm Zara Merger Sub Inc.

The company said the acquisition would strengthen its speciality and oncology business in the United States by providing an established commercial platform and access to oncology-focused products. Managing Director Sharvil Patel described the transaction as an important step in expanding the company’s speciality footprint globally.

Under the agreement, Zydus will launch a tender offer to acquire all outstanding shares of Assertio common stock at $23.50 per share in cash. The transaction is expected to close during FY27, subject to regulatory and shareholder approvals.

Also Read - India Bans Sugar Exports With Immediate Effect Until 30 September 2026

Strong Revenue Growth In Q3

In its December quarter, Zydus reported revenue from operations of ₹6,864.5 crore, marking a 30% year-on-year rise driven by growth across North America formulations, consumer wellness and international markets.

Net profit rose 2% to ₹1,042 crore during the quarter. The company said profitability was affected by a one-time adjustment linked to gratuity and leave encashment liabilities after the implementation of the government’s new labour code. Excluding this impact, net profit increased 9% year-on-year to ₹1,110 crore.

Sources:

Mint

Fortune India