This panel will bring together diverse experts to dissect the current state of life sciences licensing, exploring the dominant trends in deal-making, from upfront payments and royalty structures to the most sought-after therapeutic areas and technologies. Panelists will highlight the critical challenges faced by both licensors and licensees, and explore key trends, deal dynamics, the impact of AI and macroeconomic pressures, early-stage valuation challenges, and emerging opportunities, offering actionable advice for navigating this evolving field. Key findings from the LES Life Sciences Royalty Rates and Deal Terms Survey, which provides essential benchmark data and insights into the current and evolving financial trends within life sciences licensing agreements, will also be presented and discussed at the event. The panelists will address:

• Valuation & Creative Deals: Early-stage valuation remains a hurdle, with macroeconomic factors driving innovative risk-sharing and milestone-based deal structures.
• Strategic Pipeline Shifts: Pharma balances M&A with licensing amidst evolving deal terms and notable geographical trends (e.g., China).
• AI's Impact on Deals: AI is reshaping licensing, from deal structures to IP challenges, making an AI strategy crucial for partnerships and investment.
• Future Outlook: Experts predict future licensing shifts, spotlighting untapped opportunities and offering advice for successful deal-making.