0820 GMT - Sanofi's abrupt move to replace CEO Paul Hudson with Merck KGaA's head Belen Garijo only adds to near-term uncertainty for the French drugmaker, Citi analysts say in a research note. The company suffered several setbacks in clinical trials in the past year and needs to focus on a research-and-development turnaround, the analysts say. Garijo brings a long pharma career to the role, but a candidate from a major drugmaker with strong credentials in research-and-development and business development would have made a more immediate impact, according to Citi. "We therefore feel that it may take time for the appointment to have an impact on the shares as we wait to see what actions the new CEO will take." Shares are down 0.6% at 78.59 euros. (adria.calatayud@wsj.com)

(END) Dow Jones Newswires

February 13, 2026 03:21 ET (08:21 GMT)

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