Target Information

PanTera, founded in 2022 as a result of a research partnership initiated in 2019 between IBA (Ion Beam Applications S.A.) and the Belgian nuclear research center SCK-CEN, is focused on the large-scale production of Actinium-225, a promising radioisotope in the battle against cancer. Currently, global production of Actinium-225 is estimated to be 3Ci per year, but PanTera anticipates that by 2025, it will produce between 1.5 and 2 Ci annually.

This radioisotope has remarkable potential in cancer treatment due to its ability to target and eliminate cancer cells more effectively while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue. Numerous clinical trials are underway for several types of cancer, including neuroendocrine tumors and prostate cancer. Given the limited current production capacity of Actinium-225, which only partially meets the clinical trial needs, PanTera's anticipated production site in Belgium represents a significant opportunity for European health sovereignty and improved patient access to cutting-edge therapies, aiming to support 100,000 patients annually by 2029.

Industry Overview in Belgium

The healthcare sector in Belgium is characterized by its robust innovation landscape and a strong focus on research and development. The country is home to a large number of biopharmaceutical companies, as well as a well-established infrastructure for clinical trials. This has positioned Belgium as a hub for life sciences in Europe, attracting significant investment in healthcare technology.

Moreover, Belgium benefits from a supportive regulatory regime that encourages innovation while ensuring patient safety. The collaboration between public research institutions and private enterprises is particularly noteworthy, facilitating the development of cutting-edge medical treatments such as radiopharmaceuticals.

With the increase in health challenges, including the rise in cancer cases, there is a growing demand for innovative therapies. The Belgian market is expected to continue evolving, driven by advancements in precision medicine and targeted therapies. Deficiencies in production capacity, particularly for lifesaving radioisotopes, highlight the urgent need for new production facilities to fulfill clinical demands.

Rationale Behind the Deal

The investment in PanTera aligns with Eurazeo's strategic goal of supporting innovative companies that have the potential to transform the healthcare landscape in Europe. By participating in this funding round, Eurazeo, along with Kurma Partners, aims to facilitate the expansion of PanTera’s production capabilities of Actinium-225, which is critical for advancing cancer treatments and enhancing patient outcomes.

This deal not only strengthens the financial backing of PanTera but also reinforces the commitment of both investors to bolster the EU's healthcare sovereignty while tackling significant health challenges related to cancer. The partnership seeks to leverage shared expertise to optimize the operational and strategic potential of PanTera.

Investor Information

The investment comes from Nov Santé Actions Non Cotées, managed by Eurazeo, a leading global investment firm. Eurazeo focuses on backing high-growth companies in various sectors, particularly health and technology. Through strategic investments, Eurazeo aims to transform the healthcare sector by promoting the development of innovative solutions.

Kurma Partners, a subsidiary of Eurazeo specializing in life sciences, brings a wealth of knowledge in the healthcare sector, enhancing the investment's potential. Both firms are committed to supporting the growth of PanTera through expertise, resources, and strategic guidance, which is pivotal for navigating the challenges of the competitive healthcare landscape.

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This investment in PanTera is poised to be a strategic and impactful move for both Eurazeo and Kurma Partners. The company's focus on the production of Actinium-225 showcases a strong alignment with current trends toward advanced cancer treatments and precision medicine. Given the projected increase in patient needs and the existing gap in radioisotope supply, PanTera appears well-positioned to capitalize on market demands, potentially leading to significant returns on investment.

Furthermore, the collaboration between Eurazeo and Kurma strengthens the operational capabilities of PanTera, combining financial support with extensive industry expertise. This synergy is likely to facilitate a faster go-to-market strategy for their innovative cancer treatment solutions, thereby creating a competitive advantage.

Ultimately, the commitment to improving healthcare outcomes and addressing pressing challenges in cancer treatment makes this investment a worthwhile venture. If PanTera can deliver on its production promises and effectively scale its operations, it holds the potential to emerge as a leader in the radiopharmaceutical sector, yielding long-term benefits for patients and investors alike.

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