According to the MoneyTree Survey by Pricewaterhouse-Coopers, Thomson
Venture Economics and the National Venture Capital Association, venture
capitalists reversed a three-year downward trend by investing $20.9 billion into
2,876 deals in 2004. The Life Sciences sector (biotechnology and medical Devices
industries, together) dominated the field accounting for 27 percent of all
venture capital dollars. Investments in this sector in the fourth quarter
increased to $1.5 billion. For full year 2004, the sector totaled $5.6 billion
in 578 companies, the largest dollars and deals in four years.
Johnson & Johnson to acquire Guidant
Johnson & Johnson and Guidant Corp., a world leader in the
treatment of cardiac and vascular disease, have entered into a definitive
agreement whereby Johnson & Johnson will acquire Guidant for $25.4 billion
in fully diluted equity value.
Monsanto to invest in regional seed firms