Qiagen NV (Qiagen (QGEN)) is back in the spotlight as reports emerge that several big-name private equity firms are circling the molecular diagnostics company. Shares jumped 10.5% in the previous session on the takeover speculation, according to market data.

Private Equity Firms Circle Qiagen

Bloomberg reported Thursday that EQT AB (EQBBF), Advent, and KKR & Co. Inc. (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, according to the report. That's a significant premium to Qiagen's recent trading price, which was around $42 before the news broke.

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. Bloomberg said his planned departure removes what had been viewed as a key obstacle to a potential transaction, making the company more attractive to prospective buyers.

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

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 (MKKGY) agreed to acquire Bio-Techne Corp. (TECH) for about $11.3 billion in cash. Earlier this year, Danaher Corp. (DHR) agreed to acquire Masimo Corp. (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 market data.