Qiagen M&A Fever Builds: KKR, EQT, Advent Explore Possible Takeover

Qiagen NV (NYSE: QGEN ) is drawing renewed investor attention after reports that several private equity firms are evaluating a potential takeover of the molecular diagnostics company.

The stock surged 10.5% in the previous session on the takeover speculation, according to Pro.

Private Equity Firms Circle Qiagen Inc. (NYSE: KKR ) are among the firms studying a possible bid for Qiagen as the company continues a strategic review that could lead to a sale.

The report, citing people familiar with the matter, said the process could also attract additional private equity firms and strategic buyers.

Some potential suitors have indicated they may consider offering at least $50 per share if they decide to pursue a deal.

Qiagen has been exploring strategic alternatives since at least January, when media reports first said the company was reviewing options, including a potential sale, amid renewed takeover interest.

Strategic Review Continues In March, CEO Thierry Bernard confirmed that Qiagen had hired Moelis & Co. and Goldman Sachs Group Inc. to advise on the strategic review.

The company disclosed in November 2025 that Bernard plans to step down once a successor is appointed.

Discussions remain preliminary, and there is no certainty that any interested party will submit a formal offer.

Read Also: Thermo Fisher Flags 'Modest Inflation' Risk Amid Middle East Tensions Recent Results and Industry M&A Qiagen reported first-quarter adjusted earnings of 54 cents per share on revenue of $492 million.

The company reaffirmed its fiscal 2026 revenue guidance of $2.11 billion to $2.132 billion, below the analyst consensus of $2.183 billion.

It also expects fiscal 2026 adjusted earnings of more than $2.43 per share, compared with the consensus estimate of $2.51.

The report comes amid continued consolidation in the life sciences sector.

In June, Merck KGaA (OTC: MKKGY ) (OTC: MKGAF ) agreed to acquire Bio-Techne Corp. (NASDAQ: TECH ) for about $11.3 billion in cash.

Earlier this year, Danaher Corp. (NYSE: DHR ) agreed to acquire Masimo Corp. (NASDAQ: MASI ) for $9.9 billion in cash.

QGEN Stock Price Activity: Qiagen shares were down 0.05% at $41.97 during premarket trading on Friday, according to Pro data.

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