Curis, Inc. (NASDAQ: CRIS) completed a private placement that could raise up to $80.8 million in gross proceeds. The transaction involves the sale of 20,195 shares of Series B convertible preferred stock and 80,800,000 warrants (Series A, B, and C) with an exercise price of $0.75 per share. The initial gross proceeds are expected to be approximately $20.2 million before fees and expenses, and the deal is slated to close on or about January 8, 2026, subject to customary closing conditions.
The financing comes as Curis’s cash balance stood at $9.1 million as of September 30, 2025, a figure that underscores the company’s high operating cash burn. The capital raise is intended to extend the firm’s runway, allowing continued clinical development of its flagship oncology candidate, emavusertib, and to cover general corporate and operating expenses. The infusion of up to $80.8 million is therefore a critical lifeline that mitigates the risk of liquidity shortfall and supports the company’s long‑term growth strategy.
Emavusertib is an orally available, small‑molecule IRAK4 and FLT3 inhibitor that has received orphan drug designation for several indications, including primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL), chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), and acute myeloid leukemia (AML). The proceeds will fund the next phases of clinical trials, including the AML triplet study, and will help the company meet regulatory milestones that could unlock future revenue streams. By securing this financing, Curis positions itself to maintain momentum in a highly competitive oncology landscape where early clinical success can translate into significant market opportunity.
James Dentzer, President and CEO, highlighted the progress made in the company’s clinical programs: “We made good progress advancing our clinical studies in PCNSL, CLL, and AML this quarter,” he said. He added that the data from the AML triplet study are “very promising and warrant further evaluation of additional triplet regimens to determine the optimal dose and schedule for safety and efficacy.” These comments signal confidence in the pipeline and a focus on accelerating regulatory submissions.
The market reacted strongly, with Curis shares surging approximately 19% in pre‑market trading on the day of the announcement. The rally was driven by the substantial capital infusion, which alleviates immediate liquidity concerns and provides the resources needed to advance emavusertib. Insider participation in the placement further reinforced investor confidence in the company’s strategic direction.
In the broader biotechnology sector, Curis’s move reflects a common strategy among early‑stage oncology companies: secure financing to bridge the gap between clinical milestones and regulatory approval. While the financing dilutes existing shareholders, it preserves the company’s ability to compete for market share in a crowded field. The successful completion of this private placement positions Curis to pursue accelerated approval pathways and to potentially generate revenue once emavusertib reaches the market.
The content on BeyondSPX is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial or investment advice. We are not financial advisors. Consult with a qualified professional before making any investment decisions. Any actions you take based on information from this site are solely at your own risk.