AstraZeneca Option Alert: Apr 17 $75 Calls at the Bid: 4000 vs 5970 OI

AstraZeneca Option Alert: Apr 17 $75 Calls at the Bid: 4000 @ $2.23 vs 5970 OI; Ref=$74.765

AstraZeneca (NASDAQ:AZN) Stock

AstraZeneca

A merger between Astra of Sweden and Zeneca Group of the United Kingdom formed AstraZeneca in 1999. The firm sells branded drugs across a number of major therapeutic areas, including gastrointestinal, diabetes, cardiovascular, respiratory, cancer, immunology and rare diseases. The majority of sales come from international markets with the United States representing close to one third of its sales.

Shanghai,china-feb.12th,2023:,Astrazeneca,Company,Office,Building,And,Brand,Logo.

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Large Cap

News

Health Care

Movers

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General

FGEN

FibroGen sells its China unit to AstraZeneca for $160 million, extending its cash runway into 2027 and advancing its CD46-targeting ADC and PET imaging agent.

Amid Mounting Pressure In China, AstraZeneca Buys FibroGen&#39;s Chinese Unit For $160 Million

Flag,Of,The,European,Union,In,Front,Of,A,Blue

Specialty ETFs

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DBEF

NOVO

European fund managers are bullish on stocks, with 3 top ETFs to consider: SPDR EURO STOXX 50 (FEZ), Vanguard FTSE Europe (VGK), Xtrackers MSCI EAFE Hedged Equity (DBEF)

Big Money Is Betting On Europe, Should You? 3 ETFs To Watch

Rio,De,Janeiro,,April,22th,,2015-,Mega,Investor,George,Soros.

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BABA

ALIBABA GROUP HOLDING LTD by Alibaba Group Holding Limited

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ORCL

iShares Trust Barclays 20+ Year Treasury Bond Fund

Soros Fund Management made bullish bets on Alphabet and small-cap stocks while reducing exposure to SPY and Chinese tech in Q4. 

George Soros Makes Fresh Bets On Alphabet, Small Caps: What About SPY Puts And Alibaba?

AstraZeneca PLC - American Depositary Shares

AstraZeneca PLC

Precidian ETFs Trust AstraZeneca PLC ADRhedged

AZN Capital Corp

<a href="https://www.dailymail.co.uk/galleries/article-14422269/New-coronavirus-pandemic-potential-discovered-China.html">https://www.dailymail.co.uk/galleries/article-14422269/New-coronavirus-pandemic-potential-discovered-China.html</a>
&nbsp;

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NVAX

'New Coronavirus With Pandemic Potential Discovered In China' - DailyMail

AMGN

DRIO

Hims & Hers Health, Inc. Class A Common Stock

HIMS

LFVN

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TERN

VANI

VKTX

FDA Says Novo Nordisk's Ozempic Injection .68 mg/1 ml, Injection 1.34 mg/1 ml, Injection 2.68 Mg/1 ml Available As Of Feb 21; Novo Nordisk's Wegovy, Injection, 1.7 mg/.75 ml , Wegovy, Injection, 2.4 mg/.75 ml Now Available; FDA Says Semaglutide Injection Shortage Is Resolved As Of Feb 21

FibroGen Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FGEN#NASDAQ">FGEN</a>) stock is trading higher on Thursday. The company&nbsp;announced the sale of its China subsidiary to AstraZeneca Plc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AZN#NASDAQ">AZN</a>) for <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/25/02/g43842973/fibrogen-announces-the-sale-of-fibrogen-china-to-astrazeneca-for-approximately-160-million" rel="noreferrer noopener">approximately $160 million</a>.
&#8220;Today, we announced the sale of FibroGen China to AstraZeneca, our long-time strategic partner for roxadustat in China, bolstering our company on several fronts. It strengthens our financial position, meaningfully extending our cash runway into 2027, and enables us to continue progressing the clinical development program for FG-3246, our first-in-class, CD46 targeting antibody-drug conjugate, and FG-3180, our companion PET imaging agent, in mCRPC,&#8221; said Thane Wettig, Chief Executive Officer of FibroGen.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/25/01/43065029/astrazeneca-aims-to-restore-trust-with-new-leadership-in-china-amid-scandal-and-sales-decline" rel="noreferrer noopener">AstraZeneca Aims to Restore Trust With New Leadership in China Amid Scandal and Sales Decline</a>
FibroGen will receive an enterprise value of $85 million plus FibroGen net cash in China at closing, estimated to be approximately $75 million, totaling roughly $160 million. The transaction is expected to close by mid-2025.
AstraZeneca will obtain all rights to roxadustat for anemia in chronic kidney disease in China. A regulatory decision for chemotherapy-induced anemia is pending.
FibroGen maintains its rights to roxadustat in the U.S. and in all markets not licensed to Astellas. The company continues to evaluate a development plan for roxadustat in anemia associated with lower-risk myelodysplastic syndrome.
The company is planning for an FDA meeting in the second quarter of 2025 to determine the potential next steps for the development program for roxadustat in the U.S.
In relation to the illegal drug importation allegations, in January 2025, AstraZeneca received a Notice of Transfer to the Prosecutor and an Appraisal Opinion from the Shenzhen City Customs Office regarding suspected unpaid importation taxes amounting to $0.9 million, referred to in the Appraisal Opinion relate to cancer drugs, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/25/02/43527514/astrazeneca-q4-earnings-revenue-and-eps-beat-on-higher-cancer-and-respiratory-drug-sales-faces-4-5-million-potential-fine-in-china" rel="noreferrer noopener">Imfinzi and Imjudo</a>.
A fine of one and five times unpaid importation taxes may also be levied if AstraZeneca is found liable (amounting to around $0.9 million to $4.5 million). Reuters notes the update reassures analysts and investors that the business impact would be minor.
AstraZeneca&#8217;s China sales fell 1% on a reported basis to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/24/11/41907137/astrazeneca-lifts-2024-forecast-on-better-than-expected-q3-performance-says-it-takes-china-invest" rel="noreferrer noopener">$1.36 billion (-3% at CER)</a>.
Price Action: FGEN stock is up 21.6% at $0.68 at last check Thursday.
Read Next:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/02/43852190/southern-company-q4-utility-growth-boosts-revenue-but-rising-costs-weigh-on-profit" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Southern Company Q4: Utility Growth Boosts Revenue, But Rising Costs Weigh on Profit</a></li>
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Image by Robert Way via Shutterstock

Amid Mounting Pressure In China, AstraZeneca Buys FibroGen's Chinese Unit For $160 Million

<ul>
<li>&nbsp;Purchase price represents enterprise value of $85 million plus FibroGen net cash held in China at closing, currently estimated to be approximately $75 million</li>
<li>Upon close, FibroGen will repay its term loan to Morgan Stanley Tactical Value, further simplifying the Company's capital structure
<ul>
<li>Company's cash runway extended into 2027</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Company to continue to advance its oncology pipeline, with the initiation of the Phase 2 monotherapy trial of FG-3246 in metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) in 2Q 2025</li>
<li>Preliminary unaudited cash, cash equivalents, and accounts receivable of $121.1 million as of December 31, 2024</li>
</ul>

FibroGen Announced The Sale Of Its China Subsidiary To AstraZeneca For Approximately $160M

<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/europe">European fund managers</a> are optimistic that rising economic growth will fuel a rally in the region's stocks.
This bullishness is already reflected in performance, per a Financial Times report. The Stoxx Europe 600 index has climbed nearly 10% in this year thus far, outpacing the S&amp;P 500's 4% rise and Japan's Topix, which has seen a slight decline.
For investors looking to ride this momentum, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/etfs">here are three ETFs</a> offering strong exposure to European stocks:
SPDR Euro Stoxx 50 ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FEZ#NYSE">FEZ</a>): The SPDR EURO STOXX 50 ETF has been gaining momentum, recently hitting a 52-week high and climbing 15.16% from its 52-week low of $47.11 per share.
<ul>
<li>What's inside? FEZ tracks the EURO STOXX 50 Index, which represents the performance of the largest companies in the Eurozone across 19 different sectors. With an annual expense ratio of 0.29%, it offers broad exposure to Europe's biggest players.</li>
<li>Why is it moving? Optimism over a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/02/43791431/whats-driving-markets-tuesday">potential peace deal between Ukraine and Russia</a>, fueled by recent talks between U.S. and Russian officials, has lifted European equities. Strong earnings reports from major European firms have also contributed to the fund's rally.</li>
</ul>
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/25/02/43769730/ukraine-raises-alarm-over-us-russia-talks-on-war-without-kyivs-involvement">Ukraine Raises Alarm Over US-Russia Talks on War Without Kyiv&#8217;s Involvement</a>
Vanguard FTSE Europe ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VGK#NYSE">VGK</a>): This ETF provides a broader European exposure, with holdings in companies across sectors. Novo Nordisk (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NOVO#NYSE">NOVO</a>), AstraZeneca (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AZN#NASDAQ">AZN</a>) and Nestle are among the top names adorning the portfolio.
<ul>
<li>What's inside? VGK tracks the FTSE Developed Europe Index, covering a wide range of European equities beyond just the Eurozone, including the U.K. The fund's low expense ratio of 0.09% makes it a cost-effective way to gain diversified exposure.</li>
<li>Why is it moving? Sentiment around European stocks has improved. Investors are relieved that the EU, seen as a potential target of Trump's &#8220;America First&#8221; trade policies, has so far avoided new tariffs.</li>
</ul>
Xtrackers MSCI EAFE Hedged Equity ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DBEF#NYSE">DBEF</a>): Currency fluctuations can impact returns when investing in foreign stocks, which is where DBEF comes in. This fund offers exposure to European, Australasian, and Far Eastern stocks while hedging against currency risk.
<ul>
<li>What's inside? DBEF tracks the MSCI EAFE Index but incorporates a hedge against fluctuations in the U.S. dollar. This makes it an appealing option for U.S.-based investors looking to minimize currency-related volatility. The expense ratio is 0.36%.</li>
<li>Why is it moving? With the euro weakening against the dollar, European earnings might look more attractive to foreign investors. </li>
</ul>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Europe: The Best-Performing Equity Market</h2>
Bank of America's latest survey of 200-plus European fund managers, overseeing $482 billion in assets, found that 38% see European equities as undervalued. That&#8217;s the highest level in six years, according to the Financial Times.
"A plurality of investors expects Europe to be the best-performing equity market globally this year," BofA researchers noted, per Financial Times. A net 12% of respondents are now "overweight" European equities, compared to a net 25% who were "underweight" in December.
The rally in European equities is being powered by renewed economic optimism, potential fiscal stimulus in Germany, and a shift in sentiment among global investors. However, some experts urge caution. Pictet Asset Management's Luca Paolini warns that the rally is &#8220;based on hope, not facts,&#8221; with sentiment possibly overrunning fundamentals.
Whether the rally is sustainable remains to be seen, but for now, European stocks are back in focus.
Read Next: 
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/02/43818555/trade-war-redux-a-bumpy-ride-ahead-for-these-etfs-after-trumps-tariff-move-on-auto-pharma-chip-imports">Trade War Redux: These ETFs Due For Bumpy Ride Thanks To Trump Tariffs On Auto, Pharma, Chip Imports</a></li>
</ul>
Photo: Shutterstock

<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/george-soros">Billionaire investor George Soros</a> made some bold portfolio adjustments in the fourth quarter, signaling a shift toward growth while easing off defensive bets. 
Soros Fund Management's latest 13F filing shows fresh bets on Alphabet Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOGL#NASDAQ">GOOGL</a>) and small-cap stocks, alongside a significant reduction in its SPDR S&amp;P 500 ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SPY#NYSE">SPY</a>) put position.
Meanwhile, the fund trimmed its stake in Alibaba Group Holding Ltd (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BABA#NYSE">BABA</a>) (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BABAF#NYSE">BABAF</a>) and fully exited Oracle Corp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ORCL#NYSE">ORCL</a>), reflecting a shifting stance on Chinese tech.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Doubling Down On Alphabet, Small Caps</h2>
Alphabet emerged as one of Soros' biggest buys, with the fund increasing its stake by 2.55%. 
The firm also ramped up its exposure to the iShares Russell 2000 ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IWM#NYSE">IWM</a>), a play on smaller, high-growth companies. 
This move suggests Soros is betting on a continued rebound in both mega-cap tech and smaller, more volatile stocks.
Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/long-ideas/25/02/43816112/hedge-fund-shake-up-tiger-appaloosa-soros-outperform-buffett-icahn-ackman">Hedge Fund Shake-Up: Tiger, Appaloosa, Soros Outperform Buffett, Icahn, Ackman</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Cutting Market Hedges, Adding Fixed Income</h2>
Soros Fund slashed its SPY put position by nearly 15%, signaling reduced bearish sentiment on the broader market. &#8216;
The fund also trimmed holdings in The Financial Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLF#NYSE">XLF</a>) and iShares Core S&amp;P 500 ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IVV#NYSE">IVV</a>), while increasing exposure to Ford Motor Co&#8216;s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/F#NYSE">F</a>) debt and the iShares 20+ Year Treasury Bond ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TLT#NASDAQ">TLT</a>) calls — moves that hint at an evolving fixed-income strategy.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">China Exposure Shrinks As BABA Gets Trimmed</h2>
Alibaba stock took a hit in the fourth quarter as Soros scaled back his position, joining other investors in reassessing Chinese tech. 
Meanwhile, Smurfit WestRock PLC (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SW#NYSE">SW</a>) remained the fund's top holding at 5.71% of the portfolio, with Alphabet and AstraZeneca PLC (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AZN#NASDAQ">AZN</a>) rounding out the top three.
Soros' latest moves suggest a more optimistic take on U.S. growth stocks while pulling back on market hedges and Chinese tech bets.
Read Next: 
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/long-ideas/25/02/43811538/5-top-tech-stocks-hedge-funds-have-been-bullish-on-in-q4-hint-its-not-nvidia">5 Top Tech Stocks Hedge Funds Have Been Bullish On In Q4 (Hint: It&#8217;s Not Nvidia)</a></li>
</ul>
Image: Shutterstock

<a href="https://www.ft.com/content/10795e9d-131a-47ba-9cce-b379f3abe8eb" title="https://www.ft.com/content/10795e9d-131a-47ba-9cce-b379f3abe8eb">https://www.ft.com/content/10795e9d-131a-47ba-9cce-b379f3abe8eb</a>

Legal

'AstraZeneca Hit With US Class Action Lawsuit Over China Regulatory Probes; Lawsuit Claims UK Pharma Giant Understated The Risk Of Government Investigations' - Financial Times

This whale alert can help traders discover the next big trading opportunities.
Whales are entities with large sums of money and we track their transactions here at Benzinga on our options activity scanner.
Traders often look for circumstances when the market estimation of an option diverges away from its normal worth. Abnormal amounts of trading activity could push option prices to hyperbolic or underperforming levels. 
Here's the list of options activity happening in today's session: 
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th>Open Interest</th>
<th>Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>AZN</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>09/19/25</td>
<td>$77.50</td>
<td>$27.5K</td>
<td>206</td>
<td>6.0K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>EYPT</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$5.00</td>
<td>$49.7K</td>
<td>431</td>
<td>1.0K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>TMDX</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>12/19/25</td>
<td>$100.00</td>
<td>$37.1K</td>
<td>475</td>
<td>384</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>GILD</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>03/07/25</td>
<td>$108.00</td>
<td>$38.3K</td>
<td>45</td>
<td>339</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>TEM</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$60.00</td>
<td>$162.5K</td>
<td>3.5K</td>
<td>222</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>CVS</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$60.00</td>
<td>$110.4K</td>
<td>5.0K</td>
<td>183</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>WST</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>09/19/25</td>
<td>$240.00</td>
<td>$28.4K</td>
<td>5</td>
<td>136</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>WGS</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>02/21/25</td>
<td>$75.00</td>
<td>$257.3K</td>
<td>1.3K</td>
<td>134</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>DHR</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>09/19/25</td>
<td>$200.00</td>
<td>$106.5K</td>
<td>203</td>
<td>95</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>UNH</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>02/21/25</td>
<td>$550.00</td>
<td>$171.4K</td>
<td>710</td>
<td>66</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h2>Explanation</h2>
These bullet-by-bullet explanations have been constructed using the accompanying table. 
• Regarding AZN (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AZN#NASDAQ">AZN</a>), we observe a call option sweep with bearish sentiment. It expires in 213 day(s) on September 19, 2025. Parties traded 62 contract(s) at a $77.50 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 4 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $27.5K, with a price of $445.0 per contract. There were 206 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 6063 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For EYPT (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EYPT#NASDAQ">EYPT</a>), we notice a put option sweep that happens to be bearish, expiring in 332 day(s) on January 16, 2026. This event was a transfer of 500 contract(s) at a $5.00 strike. This particular put needed to be split into 18 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $49.7K, with a price of $95.0 per contract. There were 431 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 1002 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For TMDX (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TMDX#NASDAQ">TMDX</a>), we notice a call option sweep that happens to be bearish, expiring in 304 day(s) on December 19, 2025. This event was a transfer of 24 contract(s) at a $100.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 12 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $37.1K, with a price of $1553.0 per contract. There were 475 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 384 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For GILD (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GILD#NASDAQ">GILD</a>), we notice a call option sweep that happens to be bullish, expiring in 17 day(s) on March 7, 2025. This event was a transfer of 276 contract(s) at a $108.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 12 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $38.3K, with a price of $139.0 per contract. There were 45 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 339 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For TEM (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TEM#NASDAQ">TEM</a>), we notice a call option trade that happens to be bearish, expiring in 332 day(s) on January 16, 2026. This event was a transfer of 50 contract(s) at a $60.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $162.5K, with a price of $3250.0 per contract. There were 3527 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 222 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For CVS (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CVS#NYSE">CVS</a>), we notice a call option trade that happens to be bearish, expiring in 332 day(s) on January 16, 2026. This event was a transfer of 96 contract(s) at a $60.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $110.4K, with a price of $1150.0 per contract. There were 5079 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 183 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding WST (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WST#NYSE">WST</a>), we observe a call option sweep with bearish sentiment. It expires in 213 day(s) on September 19, 2025. Parties traded 16 contract(s) at a $240.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 3 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $28.4K, with a price of $1780.0 per contract. There were 5 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 136 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding WGS (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WGS#NASDAQ">WGS</a>), we observe a call option sweep with bullish sentiment. It expires in 3 day(s) on February 21, 2025. Parties traded 83 contract(s) at a $75.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 3 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $257.3K, with a price of $3100.0 per contract. There were 1316 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 134 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding DHR (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DHR#NYSE">DHR</a>), we observe a put option sweep with bearish sentiment. It expires in 213 day(s) on September 19, 2025. Parties traded 82 contract(s) at a $200.00 strike. This particular put needed to be split into 26 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $106.5K, with a price of $1300.0 per contract. There were 203 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 95 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding UNH (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UNH#NYSE">UNH</a>), we observe a put option trade with bullish sentiment. It expires in 3 day(s) on February 21, 2025. Parties traded 40 contract(s) at a $550.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $171.4K, with a price of $4285.0 per contract. There were 710 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 66 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
Options Alert Terminology 
 - Call Contracts: The right to buy shares as indicated in the contract. 
 - Put Contracts: The right to sell shares as indicated in the contract. 
 - Expiration Date: When the contract expires. One must act on the contract by this date if one wants to use it. 
 - Premium/Option Price: The price of the contract. 
For more information, visit our <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/blog/how-to-understand-option-alerts/">Guide to Understanding Options Alerts</a> or read <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/options">more news on unusual options activity</a>. 
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

Options

EYPT

GILD

TMDX

10 Health Care Stocks Whale Activity In Today's Session

AstraZeneca's (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AZN#NYSE">AZN</a>) short percent of float has risen 12.24% since its last report. The company recently reported that it has 16.94 million shares sold short, which is 0.55% of all regular shares that are available for trading. Based on its trading volume, it would take traders 3.64 days to cover their short positions on average.
<h3>Why Short Interest Matters</h3>
Short interest is the number of shares that have been sold short but have not yet been covered or closed out. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-short-a-stock/">Short selling</a> is when a trader sells shares of a company they do not own, with the hope that the price will fall. Traders make money from short selling if the price of the stock falls and they lose if it rises.
Short interest is important to track because it can act as an indicator of market sentiment towards a particular stock. An increase in short interest can signal that investors have become more bearish, while a decrease in short interest can signal they have become more bullish.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/short-interest">List of the most shorted stocks</a>
<h3>AstraZeneca Short Interest Graph (3 Months)</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1739802622_0.png" alt="short_fig" />
As you can see from the chart above the percentage of shares that are sold short for AstraZeneca has grown since its last report. This does not mean that the stock is going to fall in the near-term but traders should be aware that more shares are being shorted.
<h3>Comparing AstraZeneca's Short Interest Against Its Peers</h3>
Peer comparison is a popular technique amongst analysts and investors for gauging how well a company is performing. A company's peer is another company that has similar characteristics to it, such as industry, size, age, and financial structure. You can find a company's peer group by reading its 10-K, proxy filing, or by doing your own similarity analysis.
According to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/">Benzinga Pro</a>, AstraZeneca's peer group average for short interest as a percentage of float is 4.08%, which means the company has less short interest than most of its peers.
Did you know that increasing short interest can actually be bullish for a stock? <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-make-money-on-a-short-squeeze/">This post by Benzinga Money explains how you can profit from it.</a>
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and was reviewed by an editor.

Short Sellers

Short Ideas

How Is The Market Feeling About AstraZeneca?

Soros Fund Management Raises Share Stake In AstraZeneca By 19% To 3.2M Sponsored ADRs

Trump Order Halts Funding For School Covid Vaccine Mandates

On Friday, AstraZeneca Plc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AZN#NASDAQ">AZN</a>) <a target="_blank" href="https://www.astrazeneca.com/media-centre/press-releases/2025/imfinzi-perioperative-regimen-improved-event-free-survival-and-overall-survival-of-niagara-phase-iii-trial.html" rel="noreferrer noopener">shared</a> results from a post-hoc exploratory subgroup analysis from the NIAGARA Phase 3 trial.
The study showed that Imfinzi&nbsp;(durvalumab), administered perioperatively in combination with neoadjuvant (before surgery) chemotherapy, demonstrated improvements in event-free survival (EFS) and overall survival (OS) versus neoadjuvant chemotherapy with radical cystectomy alone in patients with or without a pathologic complete response (pCR) in muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC).
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/25/02/43441313/astrazeneca-blames-toxic-climate-as-it-walks-away-from-over-550-million-uk-vaccine-plant" rel="noreferrer noopener">AstraZeneca Blames &#8216;Toxic&#8217; Climate As It Walks Away from Over $550 Million UK Vaccine Plant</a>
Patients were treated with four cycles of&nbsp;Imfinzi&nbsp;in combination with neoadjuvant chemotherapy before radical cystectomy (surgery to remove the bladder), followed by eight cycles of&nbsp;Imfinzi&nbsp;monotherapy.
In NIAGARA, treatment with the&nbsp;Imfinzi&nbsp;perioperative regimen improved EFS and OS versus the comparator arm in patients who achieved pCR and those who did not.
The regimen reduced the risk of disease progression, recurrence, not undergoing surgery, or death by 42% in patients who achieved pCR and by 23% in those who did not, and reduced the risk of death by 28% in patients who achieved pCR and by 16% in those who did not.
The&nbsp;Imfinzi&nbsp;perioperative regimen also improved metastasis-free survival (MFS) and disease-specific survival (DSS), two secondary endpoints, versus the comparator arm in the intent-to-treat (ITT) population.
This regimen reduced the risk of developing distant metastases or death by 33% and the risk of death specifically due to bladder cancer by 31% versus the comparator arm.
Imfinzi&nbsp;was generally well tolerated, and no new safety signals were observed in the neoadjuvant and adjuvant settings.
In December, the FDA accepted and granted Priority Review to a supplemental application seeking approval for&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42363652/soon-after-approval-for-lung-cancer-astrazenecas-cancer-drug-imfinzi-goes-under-fda-priority-review-for-bladder-cancer" rel="noreferrer noopener">Imfinzi&nbsp;(durvalumab) for MIBC patients</a>.
The Prescription Drug User Fee Act date, the FDA action date for their regulatory decision, is anticipated during the second quarter of 2025.
Price Action: AZN stock is down 0.93% at $73.76 at the last check on Friday.
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Image by Robert Way via Shutterstock

AstraZeneca's Imfinzi Perioperative Regimen Shows Improved Survival Outcomes In Bladder Cancer Patients

IMFINZI reduced the risk of distant metastases and death from bladder cancer vs. neoadjuvant chemotherapy alone
Results from a post-hoc exploratory subgroup analysis from the NIAGARA Phase III trial showed AstraZeneca's IMFINZI&#xAE;(durvalumab), administered perioperatively in combination with neoadjuvant chemotherapy, demonstrated improvements in event-free survival (EFS) and overall survival (OS) versus neoadjuvant chemotherapy with radical cystectomy alone in patients with or without a pathologic complete response (pCR) in muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC). Patients were treated with four cycles of IMFINZI in combination with neoadjuvant chemotherapy before radical cystectomy (surgery to remove the bladder) followed by eight cycles of IMFINZI monotherapy.
These new data were presented today at the 2025 American Society of Clinical Oncology Genitourinary Cancers Symposium (ASCO GU) in San Francisco, California (abstract #659).
In NIAGARA, treatment with the IMFINZI perioperative regimen improved EFS and OS versus the comparator arm both in patients who achieved pCR and those who did not. This regimen reduced the risk of disease progression, recurrence, not undergoing surgery, or death by 42% in patients who achieved pCR and by 23% in those who did not; and reduced the risk of death by 28% in patients who achieved pCR and by 16% in those who did not (see data table below for details).
The IMFINZIperioperative regimen also improved metastasis-free survival (MFS) and disease-specific survival (DSS), two secondary endpoints, versus the comparator arm in the intent-to-treat (ITT) population. This regimen reduced the risk of developing distant metastases or death by 33% and the risk of death specifically due to bladder cancer by 31% versus the comparator arm (see data table below for details).

AstraZeneca's IMFINZI Perioperative Regimen Improved Event-Free Survival And Overall Survival Across Muscle-Invasive Bladder Cancer Patients Regardless Of Complete Pathology Response Status In Post-Hoc Exploratory Analysis Of Niagara Phase III Trial

On Wednesday, Ascendis Pharma (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ASND#NASDAQ">ASND</a>) reported a fourth-quarter EPS loss of 64 cents, beating the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/calendars/earnings" rel="noreferrer noopener">consensus loss of 1.07 euros</a>.
Total revenue for the fourth quarter of 2024 was 173.9 million euros, beating the consensus of 111.178 million euros compared to 137.7 million <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/25/02/g43674382/ascendis-pharma-reports-fourth-quarter-and-full-year-2024-financial-results" rel="noreferrer noopener">euros reported a year ago</a>.
The increase was primarily due to Novo Nordisk A/S&#8217;s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVO#NYSE">NVO</a>) $100 million upfront fee and the EU launch of Yorvipath.
TransCon hGH (lonapegsomatropin, marketed as Skytrofa) sales reached 58.5 million euros.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/24/11/41723496/wegovy-manufacturer-inks-multi-million-deal-for-monthly-obesity-drug" rel="noreferrer noopener">Wegovy Manufacturer Inks Multi-Million Deal For Monthly Obesity Drug</a>
TransCon PTH (palopegteriparatide, marketed as Yorvipath) revenue for the fourth quarter of 2024 totaled €13.6 million.
The company reported a strong start to the U.S. Yorvipath launch, with 908 prescriptions as of February 7, 2025, and 539 unique prescribing health care providers.
As of December 31, 2024, cash and cash equivalents totaled 559.5 million euros. Including the $100 million upfront payment, cash at the end of 2024 would have totaled 655 million euros.
Concurrently, Ascendis Pharma's board authorized the repurchase of up <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/25/02/g43674574/ascendis-pharma-as-announces-share-repurchase-program-net-settlement-of-certain-rsus" rel="noreferrer noopener">to $18.25 million shares</a>.
Goldman Sachs analyst writes that Yorvipath has only been available in the U.S. for a few months, but early prescription trends have been strong and widespread. However, insurance coverage and reimbursement challenges may slow revenue growth in the short term.
Looking ahead, analyst Paul Choi writes investors will likely focus on the company's progress toward achieving breakeven cash flow and key milestones, including:
<ul>
<li>The pace of Yorvipath's rollout in the U.S. and EU</li>
<li>Data from the COACH study on achondroplasia, expected in Q2 2025</li>
<li>Regulatory discussions on Transcon CNP</li>
<li>Competitive updates from BioMarin Plc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BMRN#NASDAQ">BMRN</a>) in achondroplasia and AstraZeneca Plc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AZN#NASDAQ">AZN</a>) in hypoparathyroidism.</li>
</ul>
With Yorvipath showing potential for a strong launch in 2025, Goldman Sachs maintains the Buy rating and raises the price target <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/CVS/analyst-ratings" rel="noreferrer noopener">to $225 from $200</a>.
Price Action: ASND stock is up 15.8% at $146.08 at last check Thursday.
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/health-care/25/02/43697905/zoetis-drops-as-2025-guidance-falls-short-of-estimates" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Zoetis Drops As 2025 Guidance Falls Short Of Estimates</a></li>
</ul>

Analyst Color

Earnings

Guidance

Price Target

Analyst Ratings

ASND

BMRN

Why Is Rare Disease Focused Ascendis Pharma Stock Trading Higher On Thursday?

Top Wall Street analysts changed their outlook on these top names. For a complete view of all analyst rating changes, including upgrades, downgrades and initiations, please see our <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings">analyst ratings page</a>.
<ul>
<li>Leerink Partners analyst Michael Cherny upgraded the rating for CVS Health Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CVS#NYSE">CVS</a>) from Market Perform to Outperform and raised the price target from $55 to $75. CVS Health shares closed at $63.22 on Wednesday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/CVS/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock</a>.</li>
<li>Barclays analyst Duffy Fischer upgraded DuPont de Nemours, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DD#NYSE">DD</a>) from Underweight to Equal-Weight and boosted the price target from $85 to $89. DuPont shares closed at $81.76 on Wednesday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/DD/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock</a>.</li>
<li>Wells Fargo analyst Mohit Bansal upgraded the rating for Jazz Pharmaceuticals plc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JAZZ#NASDAQ">JAZZ</a>) from Equal-Weight to Overweight and raised the price target from $130 to $170. Jazz Pharmaceuticals shares closed at $135.44 on Wednesday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/JAZZ/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock</a>.</li>
<li>UBS analyst Matthew Weston upgraded AstraZeneca PLC (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AZN#NASDAQ">AZN</a>) from Neutral to Buy. AstraZeneca shares closed at $74.43 on Wednesday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/AZN/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock</a>.</li>
<li>Morgan Stanley analyst Jeffrey Hung upgraded the rating for Cytokinetics, Incorporated (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CYTK#NASDAQ">CYTK</a>) from Equal-Weight to Overweight but lowered the price target from $70 to $67. Cytokinetics shares closed at $42.18 on Wednesday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/CYTL/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock.</a></li>
</ul>
Considering buying AZN stock? Here&#8217;s what analysts think: 
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="574" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/13073343/image-117-1024x574.png" alt="" class="wp-image-780826" style="width:608px;height:auto" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/13073343/image-117-1024x574.png 1024w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/13073343/image-117-300x168.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/13073343/image-117-768x431.png 768w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/13073343/image-117.png 1088w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>
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</ul>

Upgrades

Pre-Market Outlook

Markets

CYTK

JAZZ

This AstraZeneca Analyst Turns Bullish; Here Are Top 5 Upgrades For Thursday

UBS analyst Matthew Weston upgrades AstraZeneca (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AZN#NASDAQ">AZN</a>) from Neutral to Buy.

UBS Upgrades AstraZeneca to Buy

On CNBC's &#8220;<a href="https://www.cnbc.com/video/2025/02/11/final-trades-trade-desk-leidos-holdings-astrazeneca-and-devon-energy.html">Halftime Report Final Trades</a>,&#8221; Joshua Brown of Ritholtz Wealth Management named The Trade Desk, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TTD#NASDAQ">TTD</a>) as <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/TTD/earnings">his final trade</a>.
Trade Desk, meanwhile, will release its fourth-quarter financial results after the closing bell today. Analysts expect the Ventura, California-based company to report quarterly earnings at 57 cents per share, up from 41 cents per share in the year-ago period. Trade Desk projects quarterly revenue of $759.56 million, compared to $605.8 million a year earlier, according to data from Benzinga Pro.
Stephen Weiss of Short Hills Capital Partners said he is staying with Leidos Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LDOS#NYSE">LDOS</a>).
Supporting his view, on Tuesday Leidos Holdings reported fourth-quarter fiscal 2024 revenue growth of 10% year-over-year to $4.37 billion, beating the analyst consensus estimate of $4.13 billion. Demand across all customer segments, especially for managed health services, drove the increase.
Don't forget to check out our<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premarket/"> premarket coverage here</a>
Jim Lebenthal of Cerity Partners said AstraZeneca PLC (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AZN#NASDAQ">AZN</a>) made a strong start to the year.
Adding support to his choice, AstraZeneca, on Feb. 6, reported fourth-quarter earnings and revenue above estimates. Sales of $14.89 billion, up 18% year over year (+19% at constant currency), topped the consensus of $14.29 billion.
Rounding out the trades, Jenny Van Leeuwen Harrington of Gilman Hill Asset Management, LLC said with oil above $70, Devon Energy Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DVN#NYSE">DVN</a>) is wildly profitable.
Supporting her view, Piper Sandler analyst Mark Lear, on Jan. 29, maintained Devon Energy with an Overweight rating and raised the price target from $53 to $54.
Price Action:
<ul>
<li>Trade Desk shares declined 1.9% to close at $120.21 on Tuesday.</li>
<li>Leidos shares fell 3.6% to settle at $137.60 during Tuesday's session.</li>
<li>AstraZeneca shares gained 0.1% to close at $72.73 on Tuesday.</li>
<li>Devon Energy shares gained 2.5% to settle at $35.12 during the session.</li>
</ul>
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Photo: Shutterstock

Media

LDOS

Trade Desk, Leidos, Devon Energy And A Major Health Care Stock On CNBC's 'Final Trades'

This whale alert can help traders discover the next big trading opportunities.
Whales are entities with large sums of money and we track their transactions here at Benzinga on our options activity scanner.
Traders often look for circumstances when the market estimation of an option diverges away from its normal worth. Abnormal amounts of trading activity could push option prices to hyperbolic or underperforming levels. 
Here's the list of options activity happening in today's session: 
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th>Open Interest</th>
<th>Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>TEM</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>02/14/25</td>
<td>$75.00</td>
<td>$39.4K</td>
<td>2.1K</td>
<td>8.1K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>AHCO</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>09/19/25</td>
<td>$10.00</td>
<td>$71.4K</td>
<td>0</td>
<td>4.7K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>THC</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>02/21/25</td>
<td>$145.00</td>
<td>$105.8K</td>
<td>1.1K</td>
<td>1.0K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>COR</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$230.00</td>
<td>$822.5K</td>
<td>495</td>
<td>258</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MRNA</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$35.00</td>
<td>$81.1K</td>
<td>5.1K</td>
<td>217</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>AMGN</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$270.00</td>
<td>$140.0K</td>
<td>355</td>
<td>200</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>SYK</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>02/21/25</td>
<td>$390.00</td>
<td>$39.6K</td>
<td>484</td>
<td>151</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MCK</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>02/28/25</td>
<td>$610.00</td>
<td>$53.0K</td>
<td>100</td>
<td>137</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>AZN</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>04/17/25</td>
<td>$67.50</td>
<td>$33.6K</td>
<td>1.8K</td>
<td>120</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>LLY</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>07/18/25</td>
<td>$860.00</td>
<td>$25.3K</td>
<td>50</td>
<td>112</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h2>Explanation</h2>
These bullet-by-bullet explanations have been constructed using the accompanying table. 
• For TEM (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TEM#NASDAQ">TEM</a>), we notice a call option trade that happens to be bearish, expiring in 3 day(s) on February 14, 2025. This event was a transfer of 200 contract(s) at a $75.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $39.4K, with a price of $197.0 per contract. There were 2192 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 8123 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding AHCO (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AHCO#NASDAQ">AHCO</a>), we observe a put option sweep with bearish sentiment. It expires in 220 day(s) on September 19, 2025. Parties traded 476 contract(s) at a $10.00 strike. This particular put needed to be split into 19 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $71.4K, with a price of $150.0 per contract. There were 0 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 4752 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For THC (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/THC#NYSE">THC</a>), we notice a call option sweep that happens to be neutral, expiring in 10 day(s) on February 21, 2025. This event was a transfer of 300 contract(s) at a $145.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 3 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $105.8K, with a price of $355.0 per contract. There were 1108 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 1040 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding COR (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/COR#NYSE">COR</a>), we observe a call option trade with bearish sentiment. It expires in 339 day(s) on January 16, 2026. Parties traded 250 contract(s) at a $230.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $822.5K, with a price of $3290.0 per contract. There were 495 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 258 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding MRNA (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRNA#NASDAQ">MRNA</a>), we observe a call option sweep with bullish sentiment. It expires in 339 day(s) on January 16, 2026. Parties traded 100 contract(s) at a $35.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 4 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $81.1K, with a price of $812.0 per contract. There were 5109 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 217 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For AMGN (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMGN#NASDAQ">AMGN</a>), we notice a put option trade that happens to be bullish, expiring in 129 day(s) on June 20, 2025. This event was a transfer of 200 contract(s) at a $270.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $140.0K, with a price of $700.0 per contract. There were 355 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 200 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For SYK (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SYK#NYSE">SYK</a>), we notice a put option sweep that happens to be bearish, expiring in 10 day(s) on February 21, 2025. This event was a transfer of 99 contract(s) at a $390.00 strike. This particular put needed to be split into 23 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $39.6K, with a price of $400.0 per contract. There were 484 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 151 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For MCK (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MCK#NYSE">MCK</a>), we notice a call option sweep that happens to be bullish, expiring in 17 day(s) on February 28, 2025. This event was a transfer of 53 contract(s) at a $610.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 16 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $53.0K, with a price of $1000.0 per contract. There were 100 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 137 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding AZN (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AZN#NASDAQ">AZN</a>), we observe a call option sweep with bearish sentiment. It expires in 65 day(s) on April 17, 2025. Parties traded 57 contract(s) at a $67.50 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 9 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $33.6K, with a price of $590.0 per contract. There were 1841 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 120 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For LLY (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LLY#NYSE">LLY</a>), we notice a put option trade that happens to be bearish, expiring in 157 day(s) on July 18, 2025. This event was a transfer of 4 contract(s) at a $860.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $25.3K, with a price of $6340.0 per contract. There were 50 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 112 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
Options Alert Terminology 
 - Call Contracts: The right to buy shares as indicated in the contract. 
 - Put Contracts: The right to sell shares as indicated in the contract. 
 - Expiration Date: When the contract expires. One must act on the contract by this date if one wants to use it. 
 - Premium/Option Price: The price of the contract. 
For more information, visit our <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/blog/how-to-understand-option-alerts/">Guide to Understanding Options Alerts</a> or read <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/options">more about unusual options activity</a>. 
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

AHCO

10 Health Care Stocks With Whale Alerts In Today's Session

Investors with a lot of money to spend have taken a bullish stance on AstraZeneca (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AZN#NASDAQ">AZN</a>).
And retail traders should know.
We noticed this today when the positions showed up on publicly available options history that we track here at Benzinga.
Whether these are institutions or just wealthy individuals, we don't know. But when something this big happens with AZN, it often means somebody knows something is about to happen.
Today, Benzinga's options scanner spotted 9 options trades for AstraZeneca.
This isn't normal.
The overall sentiment of these big-money traders is split between 55% bullish and 44%, bearish.
Out of all of the options we uncovered, there was 1 put, for a total amount of $33,835, and 8, calls, for a total amount of $3,881,635.
<h3>Expected Price Movements</h3>
After evaluating the trading volumes and Open Interest, it's evident that the major market movers are focusing on a price band between $65.0 and $77.5 for AstraZeneca, spanning the last three months.
<h3>Analyzing Volume &amp; Open Interest</h3>
In today's trading context, the average open interest for options of AstraZeneca stands at 1003.75, with a total volume reaching 7,809.00. The accompanying chart delineates the progression of both call and put option volume and open interest for high-value trades in AstraZeneca, situated within the strike price corridor from $65.0 to $77.5, throughout the last 30 days.
<h3>AstraZeneca Option Volume And Open Interest Over Last 30 Days</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1739215824_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" />
<h3>Largest Options Trades Observed:</h3>

<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Ask</th>
<th>Bid</th>
<th>Price</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th>Open Interest</th>
<th>Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>AZN</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$5.9</td>
<td>$5.55</td>
<td>$5.8</td>
<td>$77.50</td>
<td>$1.9M</td>
<td>3.1K</td>
<td>0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>AZN</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$3.3</td>
<td>$3.15</td>
<td>$3.2</td>
<td>$75.00</td>
<td>$1.0M</td>
<td>2.4K</td>
<td>3.5K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>AZN</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$2.34</td>
<td>$2.0</td>
<td>$2.3</td>
<td>$77.50</td>
<td>$689.9K</td>
<td>535</td>
<td>3.0K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>AZN</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>04/17/25</td>
<td>$8.2</td>
<td>$8.15</td>
<td>$8.15</td>
<td>$65.00</td>
<td>$39.1K</td>
<td>920</td>
<td>368</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>AZN</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>04/17/25</td>
<td>$8.0</td>
<td>$7.8</td>
<td>$8.0</td>
<td>$65.00</td>
<td>$38.3K</td>
<td>920</td>
<td>740</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h3>About AstraZeneca</h3>
A merger between Astra of Sweden and Zeneca Group of the United Kingdom formed AstraZeneca in 1999. The firm sells branded drugs across a number of major therapeutic areas, including gastrointestinal, diabetes, cardiovascular, respiratory, cancer, immunology and rare diseases. The majority of sales come from international markets with the United States representing close to one third of its sales.
Having examined the options trading patterns of AstraZeneca, our attention now turns directly to the company. This shift allows us to delve into its present market position and performance
<h3>Where Is AstraZeneca Standing Right Now?</h3>
<ul>
<li>Trading volume stands at 4,149,033, with AZN's price up by 0.87%, positioned at $72.61.</li>
<li>RSI indicators show the stock to be may be overbought.</li>
<li>Earnings announcement expected in 73 days.</li>
</ul>
Turn $1000 into $1270 in just 20 days?
20-year pro options trader reveals his one-line chart technique that shows when to buy and sell. Copy his trades, which have had averaged a 27% profit every 20 days. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/options-moneyline-2/?t=Moop1arja3be22op14&amp;utm_source=benzinga-insights">Click here for access</a>.
Options are a riskier asset compared to just trading the stock, but they have higher profit potential. Serious options traders manage this risk by educating themselves daily, scaling in and out of trades, following more than one indicator, and following the markets closely.
If you want to stay updated on the latest options trades for AstraZeneca, <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a> gives you real-time options trades alerts.

Unpacking the Latest Options Trading Trends in AstraZeneca

Financial giants have made a conspicuous bullish move on AstraZeneca. Our analysis of options history for AstraZeneca (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AZN#NASDAQ">AZN</a>) revealed 11 unusual trades.
Delving into the details, we found 63% of traders were bullish, while 18% showed bearish tendencies. Out of all the trades we spotted, 6 were puts, with a value of $320,360, and 5 were calls, valued at $216,678.
<h3>Predicted Price Range</h3>
Based on the trading activity, it appears that the significant investors are aiming for a price territory stretching from $60.0 to $95.0 for AstraZeneca over the recent three months. 
<h3>Volume &amp; Open Interest Trends</h3>
In today's trading context, the average open interest for options of AstraZeneca stands at 1822.71, with a total volume reaching 912.00. The accompanying chart delineates the progression of both call and put option volume and open interest for high-value trades in AstraZeneca, situated within the strike price corridor from $60.0 to $95.0, throughout the last 30 days.
<h3>AstraZeneca Option Volume And Open Interest Over Last 30 Days</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1738854938_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" />
<h3>Largest Options Trades Observed:</h3>

<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Ask</th>
<th>Bid</th>
<th>Price</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th>Open Interest</th>
<th align="right">Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>AZN</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$21.55</td>
<td>$21.2</td>
<td>$21.55</td>
<td>$95.00</td>
<td>$161.6K</td>
<td>1</td>
<td align="right">75</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>AZN</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/15/27</td>
<td>$20.85</td>
<td>$19.15</td>
<td>$19.34</td>
<td>$60.00</td>
<td>$56.0K</td>
<td>117</td>
<td align="right">50</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>AZN</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>04/17/25</td>
<td>$7.2</td>
<td>$6.85</td>
<td>$7.0</td>
<td>$67.50</td>
<td>$51.8K</td>
<td>1.8K</td>
<td align="right">96</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>AZN</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>02/21/25</td>
<td>$4.75</td>
<td>$4.7</td>
<td>$4.75</td>
<td>$70.00</td>
<td>$42.7K</td>
<td>2.8K</td>
<td align="right">12</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>AZN</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$21.7</td>
<td>$21.65</td>
<td>$21.7</td>
<td>$95.00</td>
<td>$41.2K</td>
<td>1</td>
<td align="right">75</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h3>About AstraZeneca</h3>
A merger between Astra of Sweden and Zeneca Group of the United Kingdom formed AstraZeneca in 1999. The firm sells branded drugs across a number of major therapeutic areas, including gastrointestinal, diabetes, cardiovascular, respiratory, cancer, immunology and rare diseases. The majority of sales come from international markets with the United States representing close to one third of its sales.
<h3>Present Market Standing of AstraZeneca</h3>
<ul>
<li>Trading volume stands at 1,628,717, with AZN's price up by 4.08%, positioned at $73.83.</li>
<li>RSI indicators show the stock to be may be overbought.</li>
<li>Earnings announcement expected in 0 days.</li>
</ul>
Turn $1000 into $1270 in just 20 days?
20-year pro options trader reveals his one-line chart technique that shows when to buy and sell. Copy his trades, which have had averaged a 27% profit every 20 days. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/options-moneyline-2/?t=Moop1arja3be22op14&amp;utm_source=benzinga-insights">Click here for access</a>.
Options are a riskier asset compared to just trading the stock, but they have higher profit potential. Serious options traders manage this risk by educating themselves daily, scaling in and out of trades, following more than one indicator, and following the markets closely.
If you want to stay updated on the latest options trades for AstraZeneca, <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a> gives you real-time options trades alerts.

AstraZeneca Unusual Options Activity

Press Releases

AZN Deadline: Rosen Law Firm Encourages AstraZeneca PLC Investors to Secure Counsel Before Important February 21 Deadline in Securities Class Action First Filed by the Firm – AZN

AstraZeneca PLC Class Action: The Gross Law Firm Reminds AstraZeneca Investors of the Pending Class Action Lawsuit with a Lead Plaintiff Deadline of February 21, 2025 - AZN

Faruqi & Faruqi Reminds AstraZeneca Investors of the Pending Class Action Lawsuit with a Lead Plaintiff Deadline of February 21, 2025 - AZN

DEADLINE ALERT for CPRI, AZN, RIG: Law Offices of Howard G. Smith Reminds Investors of Opportunity to Lead Securities Fraud Class Actions

The Gross Law Firm Reminds Shareholders of a Lead Plaintiff Deadline of February 21, 2025 in AstraZeneca PLC Lawsuit – AZN

Final Deadline for the AstraZeneca PLC Securities Lawsuit - Contact the DJS Law Group to Discuss Your Rights - AZN

AZN Deadline: AZN Investors Have Opportunity to Lead AstraZeneca PLC Securities Fraud Lawsuit Filed by The Rosen Law Firm

Lost Money on AstraZeneca PLC(AZN)? Join Class Action Suit Seeking Recovery - Contact Levi & Korsinsky

FINAL DEADLINE ALERT: Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP Investigates Claims on Behalf of Investors of AstraZeneca

AstraZeneca PLC Securities Fraud Class Action Lawsuit Pending: Contact Levi & Korsinsky Before February 21, 2025 to Discuss Your Rights – AZN

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