ImmunityBio's Stock Surge Following EU Approval of Anktiva for Bladder Cancer

ImmunityBio (NASDAQ:IBRX), a biotechnology company focused on developing immunotherapies and vaccines for cancers and infectious diseases, experienced a significant stock surge of 41.86%, closing at $8.54 on Wednesday. This increase followed the European Commission's grant of conditional marketing authorization for Anktiva, an immunotherapy designed to treat bladder cancer in conjunction with the Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine. The approval allows ImmunityBio to expand its market reach to over 30 new countries, potentially accelerating sales growth for Anktiva.

Nasdaq

The trading volume for ImmunityBio reached 78.5 million shares, which is approximately 178% higher than its three-month average of 28.2 million shares. This surge in trading activity reflects heightened investor interest following the positive news regarding Anktiva. In the broader market, the S&P 500 rose by 0.53% to close at 6,880, while the Nasdaq Composite increased by 0.78% to finish at 22,754. Other biotechnology companies, such as Iovance Biotherapeutics and Krystal Biotech, showed mixed performance, with Iovance closing at $2.72 (+3.82%) and Krystal ending at $283.29 (-1.58%).

Nasdaq

The conditional marketing authorization for Anktiva is a pivotal moment for ImmunityBio, which has seen its stock price decline by 75% since its initial public offering in 2015. The company reported a remarkable 700% increase in Anktiva sales in 2025, alongside approvals from the Saudi Food and Drug Authority and promising data regarding Anktiva's efficacy in treating non-small cell lung cancer. These developments highlight a growing number of potential applications for Anktiva, particularly in treating solid tumors.

Nasdaq

Despite the positive trajectory, ImmunityBio's stock remains volatile and heavily reliant on favorable news regarding its immunotherapy products. Analysts from The Motley Fool Stock Advisor have noted that ImmunityBio is not among their top stock recommendations, suggesting caution for potential investors. The Stock Advisor's average return stands at 889%, significantly outperforming the S&P 500's 193% return.

Nasdaq

While the approval of Anktiva is a significant milestone, some analysts advise potential investors to exercise caution. The volatility of ImmunityBio's stock, coupled with its dependence on the success of Anktiva, raises questions about the sustainability of its recent gains. Investors are encouraged to consider a diversified portfolio and explore other high-performing stocks recommended by analysts.

Nasdaq

• “What this means for investors ImmunityBio received conditional marketing authorization from the European Commission for its Anktiva immunotherapy, to be used in conjunction with the Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine, when treating BCG-unresponsive bladder cancer.” — Source

Nasdaq

• “This gives ImmunityBio access to over 30 new countries and likely positions its flagship immunotherapy to continue growing sales at an accelerated rate.” — Source

Nasdaq

• “ImmunityBio’s stock has now more than quadrupled in 2026 as the company: grew Anktiva sales over 700% in 2025 also received approvals from the Saudi Food and Drug Authority released promising data on Anktiva treating non-small cell lung cancer highlighted a growing number of use cases for Anktiva, such as treating solid tumors Though Anktiva is proving to be a very promising cancer treatment, ImmunityBio will remain a volatile stock, as it remains highly dependent upon positive news from its main immunotherapy.” — Source

Nasdaq

In summary, ImmunityBio's recent stock surge following the EU's approval of Anktiva marks a critical juncture for the company, with potential for growth tempered by inherent market volatility and investor caution.

Nasdaq