Arcus Biosciences (RCUS) 2024 Cantor Global Healthcare Conference summary

Key upcoming catalysts

• Two major data sets expected before year-end: ARC-20 (casdatifan, HIF-2 alpha inhibitor) and ARC-10 (domvanalimab, Fc-silent TIGIT antibody).

• ARC-20 data to be presented at the Triple Meeting, including 100 mg and 50 mg expansion cohorts with promising ORR and PFS trends.

• ARC-10 phase III data includes randomized arms and two years of follow-up, showing ORR, PFS, and OS.

• Both data sets are expected to inspire confidence due to consistency and differentiation from competitors.

• Gilead opt-in decision for HIF-2 alpha program expected by year-end, with significant financial implications.

Portfolio strategy and pipeline diversification

• Portfolio includes IO (TIGIT, PD-1, adenosine) and cell-intrinsic targets (HIF-2 alpha, AXL inhibitor).

• Expansion into inflammation targets expected over the next 12 months, leveraging in-house expertise.

• Ongoing diversification with new programs and drug discovery engine.

Competitive landscape and differentiation

• Competitor data (NiKang, Merck) in HIF-2 alpha space seen as creating opportunity due to issues with efficacy and safety.

• ARC-20 aims to show better ORR and PFS than Merck's Belzutifan, with comparable safety.

• Dose optimization strategy aligns with FDA's Project Optimus, resulting in a robust data set for future presentations.