Baxter resolves US plant’s GMP whistleblower allegations for just $18m, a bargain compared to the $750m GlaxoSmithKline paid in 2010 and the $500m Ranbaxy paid in 2013. One reason: it was more narrowly focused.

With a late-stage compound on its hands, MGB is currently in discussions with several biotech and pharma companies and also with venture capitalists to continue late-stage development of a novel antibiotic which could transform treatment of Clostridium difficile.

AZ and the EU are at loggerheads over supplies of the COVID-19 vaccine. On top of that, its marketing authorization will present dilemmas.