Multiple non-vaccine options for COVID-19 continue to progress, with promising new clinical results for Sorrento's small molecule drug and a supplementary approval in Japan for Chugai's antibody combo. Meanwhile, China's CRDC has in-licensed technology for Ligand to apply to an oral antiviral it is developing. Meanwhile, SK Biosciences' novel nanoparticle vaccine is positive in early trials.

Oncology partnership with Swiss major follows late 2020 pact with Merck KGaA. Pfizer divests Phase Ib breast cancer candidate to Celcuity.

Last year was transformational for the Belgian biotech Ablynx. Not only did it sign the biggest product licensing deal of 2013 with AbbVie, it also further expanded its relationship with Merck Serono through a fourth collaboration; its first venture investors Gimv and Sofinnova Partners exited the company; and the firm took its first foray into the emerging markets via a $2m deal with China's Eddingpharm.

The recent outpouring of soul searching, introspection and discussion prompted by the parting editorial from Greg Smith, a now ex-Goldman Sachs investment banker, has had little linkage to the biotechnology sector. [Smith proposed in his resignation letter that career progression at Goldman Sachs is now contingent not on making money for its investor clients but on making money for Goldman Sachs.]