Health Sector News: From Heart Devices to Vaccine Takeovers

The health sector sees significant developments as Edwards Lifesciences raises sales forecast due to strong demand for heart devices, while Bavarian Nordic enters potential takeover talks. Moreover, AstraZeneca's immune disorder drug succeeds in trials, and Novartis invests up to $1 billion in anti-inflammatory drug development.

In a move that underscores the buoyancy of the health sector, Edwards Lifesciences has increased its sales forecast on the back of robust demand for its heart devices. The company's shares rose by 8% following better-than-expected second-quarter results.

Simultaneously, Danish biotech Bavarian Nordic's shares surged by 24% as the company announced ongoing takeover discussions with Nordic Capital and Permira. This potential acquisition has captured investor interest despite the uncertainty of its outcome.

In pharmaceutical developments, AstraZeneca's drug for a rare autoimmune condition has succeeded in clinical trials, marking a significant breakthrough. Meanwhile, Novartis plans to pay Matchpoint up to $1 billion to develop oral drugs targeting inflammatory disorders.

(With inputs from agencies.)