By Fineline Cube 
I‑MAB Biopharma (NASDAQ: IMAB), a public company under the CBC Group, today revealed a strategic overhaul to become a global biotechnology platform. The company will rename itself NovaBridge Biosciences and pursue a dual initial public offering (IPO) on the Nasdaq and the Hong Kong Stock Exchange (HKEX). Concurrently, NovaBridge announced the acquisition of the bispecific ocular therapeutic VIS‑101 through its newly‑formed subsidiary Visara and a licensing collaboration with Everest Medicines (HKG: 1952).
1. Global Platform Transformation & Dual Listing
- Rebranding – I‑Mab will change its corporate name to NovaBridge Biosciences, underscoring a shift from a single‑product focus to a diversified biotech platform.
- IPO Strategy – The planned dual listing on Nasdaq and HKEX is designed to unlock broader capital markets, enhance liquidity, and provide dual-access to U.S. and Asian investors.
- Strategic Growth – NovaBridge aims to build end‑to‑end capabilities—from discovery to commercialization—to accelerate access to innovative medicines across multiple therapeutic areas.
2. Acquisition of VIS‑101 Through Visara
- Asset – VIS‑101 is a bispecific biomolecule that simultaneously targets VEGF‑A and ANG‑2, offering superior molecular activity compared with current anti‑VEGF therapies.
- Clinical Value – Early data indicate more durable efficacy for patients with wet Age‑Related Macular Degeneration (wet AMD), Diabetic Macular Edema (DME), and Retinal Vein Occlusion (RVO).
- Transaction Structure – NovaBridge will fund Visara with $37 million and receive equity from strategic partner AffaMed Therapeutics. The deal is expected to close this month, making NovaBridge the controlling shareholder of Visara and holder of global rights to VIS‑101.
3. Licensing Collaboration with Everest Medicines
- Letter of Intent – NovaBridge signed a LOI with Everest Medicines (1952.HK) for a joint licensing partnership covering Greater China and global clinical development of VIS‑101.
- Strategic Impact – The collaboration leverages Everest’s robust Chinese regulatory network and commercial infrastructure, positioning VIS‑101 for accelerated market entry in Asia.
4. Clinical Development Milestones
- Safety & Dose Escalation – VIS‑101 has completed preliminary safety and dose‑escalation studies in the U.S. and China.
- Phase II – A randomized, dose‑ranging Phase II study in China has finished, supporting the drug’s efficacy profile.
- Phase III Readiness – The platform is on track for a Phase III launch in 2026, with global development timelines aligned with the dual‑market IPO strategy.
Forward‑Looking Statements
This release contains forward‑looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. Actual results may differ materially.-Fineline Info & Tech