UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549


FORM 6-K


REPORT OF FOREIGN PRIVATE ISSUER

PURSUANT TO RULE 13a-16 OR 15d-16

UNDER THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the Month of July 2021

Commission File Number: 001-38097


ARGENX SE

(Translation of registrant’s name into English)


Willemstraat 5
4811 AH, Breda, the Netherlands

(Address of principal executive offices)


Indicate by check mark whether the registrant files or will file annual reports under cover of Form 20-F or Form 40-F.

Form 20-F       Form 40-F  

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is submitting the Form 6-K in paper as permitted by Regulation S-T Rule 101(b)(1): 

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is submitting the Form 6-K in paper as permitted by Regulation S-T Rule 101(b)(7): 



 

argenx SE

On July 29, 2021, argenx SE (the “Company) issued a press release and unaudited Six Months results for 2021, which are further described in an Unaudited Interim Report for the Six Months Ended June 30, 2021, copies of which are attached hereto as Exhibits 99.1 and 99.2, respectively, and are incorporated by reference herein.

The information contained in this Current Report on Form 6-K, including the exhibits hereto, is incorporated by reference into the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-8 (File No. 333-225375).

 


EXHIBITS

Exhibit

Description

99.1

Press Release dated July 29, 2021

99.2

Unaudited Interim Report for the Six Months Ended June 30, 2021

101.INS

XBRL Instance Document

101.SCH

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document

101.CAL

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document

101.DEF

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document

101.LAB

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document

101.PRE

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document


SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

ARGENX SE

Date: July 29, 2021

By:

/s/ Dirk Beeusaert

Dirk Beeusaert

General Counsel


Exhibit 99.1

Graphic

argenx Reports Half Year 2021 Financial Results and Provides Second Quarter Business Update

Completion of enrollment expected by year-end for ADAPT-SC and ADVANCE (IV) trials of efgartigimod; topline data for both trials expected in first half of 2022
Introduced “argenx 2025” vision during R&D Day to highlight commitment to patients and science and outline path to becoming global, integrated immunology leader
Management to host conference call today at 2:30 pm CEST (8:30 am ET) -

July 29, 2021


Breda, the Netherlands – argenx (Euronext & Nasdaq: ARGX), a global immunology company committed to improving the lives of people suffering from severe autoimmune diseases and cancer, today announced its half year 2021 financial results and provided a second quarter business update and outlook for the remainder of the year.

“The first half of 2021 has been marked by clinical, financial and regulatory achievements for argenx. As we look toward 2022, we believe we are well-positioned to build on the impressive progress we have made with our first-in-class FcRn antagonist, efgartigimod. We are expanding our commercial organization to reach patients living with generalized myasthenia gravis this year and expect that these investments will benefit us in the future and support our growing, differentiated pipeline,” said Tim Van Hauwermeiren, Chief Executive Officer of argenx.  

“Beyond myasthenia gravis, we are expanding the breadth of efgartigimod into our fifth and sixth indications, myositis and bullous pemphigoid and simultaneously investing in potential scientific breakthroughs through our Immunology Innovation Program (IIP). Our first-in-class C2 inhibitor, ARGX-117, emerged from the IIP and has the potential to be our next pipeline-in-a-product opportunity. Collectively, the demonstrated execution this year supports our ‘argenx 2025’ vision and brings us closer than ever to becoming a global, integrated, immunology company,”  concluded Mr. Van Hauwermeiren.

SECOND QUARTER 2021 AND RECENT BUSINESS UPDATE

During its July 20th R&D Day, argenx introduced its long-term vision to becoming a global, integrated immunology organization. The ‘argenx 2025’ vision includes the following goals:

-Efgartigimod being globally available to patients across its three expanding commercial franchises in neuromuscular diseases, hematology and dermatology
-Efgartigimod either being commercially available or in clinical development in 15 active indications
-Progress across broader immunology pipeline with ARGX-117 in multiple late-stage trials and ARGX-119 demonstrating proof-of-concept
-Investment in continued expansion of differentiated pipeline through its Immunology Innovation Program (IIP), generating one new asset into pipeline each year

On track with buildout of global commercial organization in anticipation of potential approval of efgartigimod for treatment of  generalized myasthenia gravis (gMG)

-Biologics License Application (BLA) under review with U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) with target action date of December 17, 2021 under Prescription Drug User Fee Act (PDUFA)

-Marketing Authorization Application (J-MAA) under review with Japan’s Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Agency (PMDA) with anticipated approval in first half of 2022
-MAA on track and expected to be filed with European Medicines Agency (EMA) in second half of 2021
-Zai Lab on track with expected regulatory discussions with National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) for approval in China
-ADAPT Phase 3 trial results of efgartigimod for treatment of gMG published in The Lancet Neurology
-Hiring of salesforce expected to be completed in U.S. in third quarter of 2021 and in Japan in fourth quarter of 2021
-Ongoing engagement with gMG patient community through awareness and advocacy efforts, including award-winning docuseries “A Mystery to Me”, and continued enrollment into real-world evidence study, MyRealWorld®MG

Efgartigimod is currently being evaluated in five ongoing registrational trials across four indications, including ADAPT-SC (gMG), ADHERE (chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy or CIDP), ADVANCE (IV) and ADVANCE-SC (primary immune thrombocytopenia or ITP), and ADDRESS (pemphigus)

-Completion of enrollment expected by end of 2021 in ADAPT-SC and ADVANCE (IV); topline data for both trials expected in first half of 2022
-Broadened efgartigimod opportunity with announcement of new indications, idiopathic inflammatory myopathies (myositis) within neuromuscular franchise and bullous pemphigoid within dermatology franchise
oPhase 2/3 trial of efgartigimod for treatment of myositis to start by end of 2021, pending interactions with FDA
oPhase 3 registrational trial of efgartigimod for treatment of bullous pemphigoid to start by end of 2021
-Phase 2 proof-of-concept trials of efgartigimod in additional indications to be evaluated as part of collaboration with Zai Lab

Phase 1 healthy volunteer data of C2-inhibitor, ARGX-117, support path forward into multifocal motor neuropathy (MMN)

-Favorable safety profile demonstrated across single and multiple ascending doses and both IV and SC formulations
-Pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic profiles demonstrate potential for infrequent dosing schedules
-Phase 2 trial of MMN patients on track to start by end of 2021

Immunology Innovation Program (IIP) continues to bring value to argenx through internal pipeline programs, partnerships and licensing agreements

-ARGX-119, a SIMPLE AntibodyÔ aimed at boosting the neuromuscular junction in disease, emerging from IIP to be next pipeline candidate within neuromuscular franchise
-Regained worldwide rights to anti-CD70 antibody cusatuzumab from Janssen; argenx to evaluate potential alternatives to advance cusatuzumab through partnership
-15-20 discovery programs under evaluation at any point in time that have emerged from IIP


HALF YEAR 2021 FINANCIAL RESULTS (CONSOLIDATED)

Six Months Ended

June 30,

(in thousands of $ except for shares and EPS)

    

2021

    

2020

Variance

Revenue

    

$

470,398

    

$

24,683

$

445,715

Other operating income

 

17,079

 

9,619

7,460

Total operating income

 

487,477

 

34,302

453,175

Research and development expenses

 

(273,907)

 

(189,251)

(84,656)

Selling, general and administrative expenses

 

(129,599)

 

(67,926)

(61,673)

Total operating expenses

(403,506)

(257,177)

(146,329)

Change in fair value on non-current financial assets

11,152

934

10,218

Operating income / (loss)

 

$

95,123

 

$

(221,941)

$

317,064

Financial income/(expense)

 

(745)

 

(2,403)

1,658

Exchange gains/(losses)

 

(18,375)

 

245

(18,620)

Profit / (Loss) before taxes

 

$

76,003

 

$

(224,099)

$

300,102

Income tax (expense)/benefit

 

$

(12,835)

 

$

(2,491)

$

(10,345)

Profit / (Loss) for the period

 

$

63,167

 

$

(226,590)

$

289,757

Weighted average number of shares outstanding

50,638,702

43,476,103

Basic profit / (loss) per share (in $)

1.25

(5.21)

Diluted profit / (loss) per share (in $)

1.17

(5.21)

Net increase/(decrease) in cash, cash equivalents and current financial assets compared to year-end 2020 and 2019

734,545

663,686

Cash, cash equivalents and current financial assets at the end of the period

2,730,997

2,164,347

DETAILS OF THE FINANCIAL RESULTS

As of January 1, 2021, the Company changed its functional and presentation currency from euro to U.S. dollars, which results in reporting financial highlights in U.S. dollar as compared to euro in prior periods. Historical financials have been converted at the average exchange rate of the related period.

Cash, cash equivalents and current financial assets totaled $2,731.0 million as of June 30, 2021, compared to $1,996.5 million on December 31, 2020. The increase in cash and cash equivalents and current financial assets resulted primarily from (i) the closing of a global offering, which resulted in the receipt of $1,092.1 million in net proceeds in February 2021, (ii) the net receipt of a $73.1 million non-creditable, non-refundable development cost-sharing payment received from Zai Lab as part of the strategic collaboration for efgartigimod in Greater China, (iii) the payment of $98.0 million related to the purchase of the priority review voucher from Bayer HealthCare Pharmaceuticals, and other net cash flows used in operating activities.

Total operating income increased by $453.2 million for the six months ended June 30, 2021 to $487.5 million, compared to $34.3 million for the six months ended June 30, 2020. The increase was primarily due to the recognition of the transaction price as a consequence of the termination of the collaboration agreement with Janssen, resulting in the recognition of $315.1 million  and the closing of the strategic collaboration for efgartigimod with Zai Lab, resulting in the recognition of $151.9 million in collaboration revenue.

Research and development expenses increased by $84.7 million for the six months ended June 30, 2021 to $273.9 million, compared to $189.3 million for the six months ended June 30, 2020. The increase in the first six months of 2021 resulted primarily from higher external research and development expenses, mainly related to the efgartigimod program in various indications and other clinical and preclinical programs. Furthermore, the research and development personnel expenses


increased due to a planned increase in headcount and the increased costs of the share-based payment compensation plans related to the grant of stock options.

Selling, general and administrative expenses totaled $129.6 million for the six months ended June 30, 2021, compared to $67.9 million for the six months ended June 30, 2020. The increase resulted primarily from higher personnel expenses, including the costs of the share-based payment compensation plans related to the grant of stock options, and consulting fees linked to the preparation of a possible future commercialization of argenx’s lead product candidate efgartigimod.

The change in fair value on non-current financial assets amounted to $11.2 million for the six months ended June 30, 2021, which is the result of the closing of a Series B financing round of AgomAb Therapeutics, for which argenx maintains a profit share in exchange for granting the license for the use of HGF-mimetic antibodies from the SIMPLE AntibodyTM platform.

Exchange losses totaled $18.4 million for the six months ended June 30, 2021, compared to an exchange gain of $0.2 million for the six months ended June 30, 2020. As a result of the change in the Company’s functional and presentation currency, the exchange losses for the six months ended June 30, 2021 are reflecting the unfavorable change in euro/U.S. dollar exchange rate, mainly attributable to unrealized exchange rate losses on cash, cash equivalents and current financial asset position in euro.

FINANCIAL GUIDANCE

Based on current plans to fund anticipated operating expenses and capital expenditures, argenx continues to expect its 2021 cash burn to approximately double from 2020. The increased spend will support the Company’s transition to an integrated immunology company, including the build-out of global commercial infrastructure and drug product inventory ahead of the expected launch of efgartigimod in gMG in the U.S, the advancement of its clinical-stage pipeline, including expected global trials of efgartigimod in six indications, and the continued investment in its Immunology Innovation Program.  

EXPECTED 2021 FINANCIAL CALENDAR

-October 28, 2021: Q3 2021 financial results and business update

CONFERENCE CALL DETAILS

The half year 2021 financial results and second quarter business update will be discussed during a conference call and webcast presentation today at 2:30 pm CEST/8:30 am ET. A webcast of the live call may be accessed on the Investors section of the argenx website at argenx.com/investors. A replay of the webcast will be available on the argenx website.

Dial-in numbers:

Please dial in 15 minutes prior to the live call.

Belgium  0800 389 13

France   0805 102 319

Netherlands  0800 949 4506

United Kingdom 0800 279 9489

United States                   1 844 808 7140

International                    1 412 902 0128

About argenx

argenx is a global immunology company committed to improving the lives of people suffering from severe autoimmune diseases and cancer. Partnering with leading academic researchers through its Immunology Innovation Program (IIP), argenx aims to translate immunology breakthroughs into a world-class portfolio of novel antibody-based medicines. argenx


is evaluating efgartigimod in multiple serious autoimmune diseases. argenx is also advancing several earlier stage experimental medicines within its therapeutic franchises. argenx has offices in Belgium, the United States, Japan, and Switzerland. For more information, visit www.argenx.com and follow us on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/argenx/ and Twitter at https://twitter.com/argenxglobal.

For further information, please contact:

Media:

Kelsey Kirk

KKirk@argenx.com

Joke Comijn (EU)

jcomijn@argenx.com

Investors:

Beth DelGiacco

bdelgiacco@argenx.com

Michelle Greenblatt

mgreenblatt@argenx.com

Forward-looking Statements

The contents of this announcement include statements that are, or may be deemed to be, “forward-looking statements.” These forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology, including the terms “believes,” “hope,” “estimates,” “anticipates,” “expects,” “intends,” “may,” “will,” or “should” and include statements argenx makes concerning the argenx 2025 vision; its statement that the submissions in China and the EU are on track and that it is well-positioned for a global launch of its first-in-class FcRn antagonist, including that BLA for IV efgartigimod for treatment of gMG accepted for review by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in March 2021 with target action date of December 17, 2021 under Prescription Drug User Fee Act (PDUFA); J-MAA submitted to Japan’s PMDA and accepted for review with anticipated Japan commercial launch in 2022; MAA expected to be filed with European Medicines Agency (EMA) in second half of 2021 and Zai Lab Limited to discuss potential accelerated regulatory pathway for approval in China with National Medical Products Administration (NMPA); statements regarding its commercial readiness; its statement that enrollment in trials for ADAPT-SC and ADVANCE(IV) to complete by end of 2021 and topline data expected in first half of 2022; its statementthat a Phase 2/3 trial of efgartigimod for treatment of myositis to start by end of 2021, pending interactions with FDA, Phase 3 registrational trial of efgartigimod for treatment of bullous pemphigoid to start by end of 2021, and Phase 2 proof-of-concept trials to be evaluated with Zai Lab Limited; its plan to evaluate alternatives; its expectation of a U.S. launch of efgartigimod; that Phase 2 trial of MMN on track to start by end of 2021; its expectation that its 2021 cash burn will approximately double from 2020;  its hope to reach patients this year; its statements regarding the therapeutic potential of Efgartigimod in patients with gMG; its plans to start enrollment in two additional efgartigimod indications this year ;;,  the 2021 business and financial outlook and related plans; the therapeutic potential of its product candidates;  the intended results of its strategy and argenx’s, and its collaboration partners’, advancement of, and anticipated clinical development, data readouts and regulatory milestones and plans, including the timing of planned clinical trials and expected data readouts; the design of future clinical trials and the timing and outcome of regulatory filings and regulatory approvals. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties and readers are cautioned that any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance. argenx’s actual results may differ materially from those predicted by the forward-looking statements as a result of various important factors, including the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, argenx’s expectations regarding its the inherent uncertainties associated with competitive developments, preclinical and clinical trial and product development activities and regulatory approval requirements; argenx’s reliance on collaborations with third parties; estimating the commercial potential of argenx’s product candidates; argenx’s ability to obtain and maintain protection of intellectual property for its technologies and drugs; argenx’s limited operating history; and argenx’s ability to obtain additional funding for operations and to complete the development and commercialization of its product candidates. A further list and description of these risks, uncertainties and other risks can be found in argenx’s U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) filings and reports, including in argenx’s most recent annual report on Form 20-F filed with the SEC as well as subsequent filings and reports filed by argenx with the SEC. Given these uncertainties, the reader is advised not to place any undue reliance on such forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of publication of this document. argenx undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise the information in this press release, including any forward-looking statements, except as may be required by law.


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TABLE OF CONTENTS

MANAGEMENT REPORT2

1. MAIN EVENTS IN THE SIX MONTHS OF 20212

2. FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS3

3. FINANCIAL GUIDANCE4

4. RISK FACTORS4

5. FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS5

UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED INTERIM STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION6

UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED INTERIM STATEMENT OF PROFIT AND LOSS8

UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED INTERIM STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE PROFIT OR LOSS9

UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED INTERIM STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS10

UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED INTERIM STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY11

NOTES TO THE UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED INTERIM FINANCIAL STATEMENTS12

MANAGEMENT REPORT

1.MAIN EVENTS IN THE SIX MONTHS OF 2021

FIRST QUARTER OF 2021

We refer to our Q1 2021 press release.

SECOND QUARTER OF 2021AND RECENT BUSINESS UPDATE

“The first half of 2021 has been marked by clinical, financial and regulatory achievements for argenx. As we look toward 2022, we are well-positioned to build on the impressive progress we have made with our first-in-class FcRn antagonist, efgartigimod. We are expanding our commercial organization to reach patients living with generalized myasthenia gravis this year and know that these investments will benefit us in the future and support our growing, differentiated pipeline,” said Tim Van Hauwermeiren, Chief Executive Officer of argenx.

“Beyond myasthenia gravis, we are expanding the breadth of efgartigimod into our fifth and sixth indications, myositis and bullous pemphigoid and simultaneously investing in scientific breakthroughs through our Immunology Innovation Program (IIP). Our first-in-class C2 inhibitor, ARGX-117, emerged from the IIP and has the potential to be our next pipeline-in-a-product opportunity. Collectively, the demonstrated execution this year supports our ‘argenx 2025’ vision and brings us closer than ever to becoming a global, integrated, immunology company,” concluded Mr. Van Hauwermeiren.

During its July 20th R&D Day, argenx introduced its long-term vision to becoming a global, integrated immunology organization. The ‘argenx 2025’ vision includes:

-Efgartigimod being globally available to patients across its three expanding commercial franchises in neuromuscular diseases, hematology and dermatology
-Efgartigimod commercially available or in clinical development in 15 active indications
-Progress across broader immunology pipeline with ARGX-117 in multiple late-stage trials and ARGX-119 demonstrating proof-of-concept
-Investment in continued expansion of differentiated pipeline through immunology innovation program, generating one new asset into pipeline each year

On track with buildout of global commercial organization in anticipation of potential approval of efgartigimod for treatment of generalized myasthenia gravis (gMG)

-Biologics License Application (BLA) under review with U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) with target action date of December 17, 2021 under Prescription Drug User Fee Act (PDUFA)
oMarketing Authorization Application (J-MAA) under review with Japan’s Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Agency (PMDA) with anticipated approval in half of 2022
oMAA on track to be filed with European Medicines Agency (EMA) in second half of 2021
oZai Lab on track with regulatory discussions with National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) for approval in China
-ADAPT Phase 3 trial results of efgartigimod for treatment of gMG published in Lancet Neurology
-Hiring of salesforce to be completed in the U.S. in third quarter of 2021 and in Japan in fourth quarter of 2021

2

oOngoing engagement with gMG patient community through marketing and advocacy efforts, including award-winning docuseries “A Mystery to Me”, and continued enrollment into real-world evidence study, MyRealWorld®MG

Efgartigimod is currently being evaluated in five ongoing registrational trials across four indications, including ADAPT-SC (gMG), ADHERE (chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy or CIDP), ADVANCE (IV) and ADVANCE-SC (primary immune thrombocytopenia or ITP), and ADDRESS (pemphigus)

-Completion of enrollment expected by end of 2021 in ADAPT-SC and ADVANCE (IV); topline data in both trials expected in first half of 2022
-Broadened efgartigimod opportunity with announcement of new indications, idiopathic inflammatory myopathies (myositis) within neuromuscular franchise and bullous pemphigoid within dermatology franchise
oPhase 2/3 trial of efgartigimod for treatment of myositis to start by end of 2021, pending interactions with FDA
oPhase 3 registrational trial of efgartigimod for treatment of bullous pemphigoid to start by end of 2021
-Phase 2 proof-of-concept trials of efgartigimod in additional indications to be evaluated as part of collaboration with Zai Lab

Phase 1 healthy volunteer data of C2-inhibitor, ARGX-117, support path forward into multifocal motor neuropathy (MMN)

-Favorable safety profile demonstrated across single and multiple ascending doses and both IV and SC formulations
-Pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic profiles demonstrate potential for infrequent dosing schedules
-Phase 2 trial of MMN patients on track to start by end of 2021

Immunology Innovation Program (IIP) continues to bring value to argenx as internal pipeline programs or through partnerships and licensing agreements

-ARGX-119, a SIMPLE AntibodyÔ aimed at boosting neuromuscular junction in disease, emerging from IIP to be next pipeline candidate within neuromuscular franchise
-Regained worldwide rights to anti-CD70 antibody cusatuzumab from Janssen; argenx to evaluate alternatives to advance cusatuzumab through partnership
-15-20 discovery programs under evaluation at any point in time that have emerged from IIP

2.FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

As of January 1, 2021, the Company changed its functional and presentation currency from euro to U.S. dollars, which results in reporting financial highlights in U.S. dollar as compared to euro in prior periods. Historical financials have been converted at the average exchange rate of the related period.

Cash, cash equivalents and current financial assets totaled $2,731.0 million as of June 30, 2021, compared to $1,996.5 million on December 31, 2020. The increase in cash and cash equivalents and current financial assets resulted primarily from (i) the closing of a global offering, which resulted in the receipt of $1,092.1 million in net proceeds in February 2021, (ii) the net receipt of a $73.1 million non-creditable, non-refundable development cost-sharing payment received from Zai Lab as part of the strategic collaboration for efgartigimod in Greater China, (iii) the payment of $98.0 million related to the purchase of the priority review voucher from Bayer HealthCare Pharmaceuticals, and other net cash flows used in operating activities.

3

Total operating income increased by $453.2 million for the six months ended June 30, 2021 to $487.5 million, compared to $34.3 million for the six months ended June 30, 2020. The increase was primarily due to the recognition of the transaction price as a consequence of the termination of the collaboration agreement with Janssen, resulting in the recognition of $315.1 million and the closing of the strategic collaboration for efgartigimod with Zai Lab, resulting in the recognition of $151.9 million in collaboration revenue.

Research and development expenses increased by $84.7 million for the six months ended June 30, 2021 to $273.9 million, compared to $189.3 million for the six months ended June 30, 2020. The increase in the first six months of 2021 resulted primarily from higher external research and development expenses, mainly related to the efgartigimod program in various indications and other clinical and preclinical programs. Furthermore, the research and development personnel expenses increased due to a planned increase in headcount and the increased costs of the share-based payment compensation plans related to the grant of stock options.

Selling, general and administrative expenses totaled $129.6 million for the six months ended June 30, 2021, compared to $67.9 million for the six months ended June 30, 2020. The increase resulted primarily from higher personnel expenses, including the costs of the share-based payment compensation plans related to the grant of stock options, and consulting fees linked to the preparation of a possible future commercialization of argenx’s lead product candidate efgartigimod.

The change in fair value on non-current financial assets amounted to $11.2 million for the six months ended June 30, 2021, which is the result of the closing of a Series B financing round of AgomAb Therapeutics, for which argenx maintains a profit share in exchange for granting the license for the use of HGF-mimetic antibodies from the SIMPLE AntibodyTM platform.

Exchange losses totaled $18.4 million for the six months ended June 30, 2021, compared to an exchange gain of $0.2 million for the six months ended June 30, 2020. As a result of the change in the Company’s functional and presentation currency, the exchange losses for the six months ended June 30, 2021 are reflecting the unfavorable change in euro/U.S. dollar exchange rate, mainly attributable to unrealized exchange rate losses on cash, cash equivalents and current financial asset position in euro.

3.FINANCIAL GUIDANCE

Based on current plans to fund anticipated operating expenses and capital expenditures, argenx continues to expect its 2021 cash burn to approximately double from 2020. The increased spend will support the Company’s transition to an integrated immunology company, including the build-out of global commercial infrastructure and drug product inventory ahead of the expected launch of efgartigimod in gMG in the U.S, the advancement of its clinical-stage pipeline, including expected global trials of efgartigimod in six indications, and the continued investment in its Immunology Innovation Program.

4.RISK FACTORS

We refer to the description of risk factors in the 2020 annual report, pp. 14-48 as supplemented by the description of risk factors in our annual report on Form 20-F filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, pp. 2-45. In summary, the principal risks and uncertainties faced by us relate to: our financial position and need for additional capital, development and clinical testing of our product candidates, commercialization of our product candidates, our business and industry, our dependence on third parties, intellectual property, our organization and operations, and the ADSs.

We also refer to the description of our financial risk management given in the 2020 annual report, pp. 289-292, which remains valid.

4

5.FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

The contents of this announcement include statements that are, or may be deemed to be, “forward-looking statements.” These forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology, including the terms “believes,” “estimates,” “anticipates,” “expects,” “intends,” “may,” “will,” or “should” and include statements argenx makes concerning its statement that the submissions in China and the EU are on track and that it is well-positioned for a global launch of its first-in-class FcRn antagonist, including that BLA for IV efgartigimod for treatment of gMG accepted for review by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in March 2021 with target action date of December 17, 2021 under Prescription Drug User Fee Act (PDUFA), J-MAA submitted to Japan’s PMDA and accepted for review with anticipated Japan commercial launch in 2022, MAA expected to be filed with European Medicines Agency (EMA) in second half of 2021 and Zai Lab Limited to discuss potential accelerated regulatory pathway for approval in China with National Medical Products Administration (NMPA); statements regarding its commercial readiness; its statement that enrollment in trials for fifth and sixth indications to begin in 2021; its statement that data expected mid-year from Phase 1 trial of C2 inhibitor, ARGX-117; Phase 2 dosing plan to be identified for indications including multifocal motor neuropathy (MMN), and Phase 2 trial of MMN on track to start by end of 2021; its expectation that its 2021 cash burn will approximately double from 2020; its hope to reach patients this year; its statements regarding the therapeutic potential of Efgartigimod in patients with gMG as well as several other severe autoimmune diseases mediated by IgG autoantibodies; its plans to start enrollment in two additional efgartigimod indications this year, its expectation to have Phase 1 data mid-year for its C2 inhibitor, ARGX-117, 2021 business and financial outlook and related plans; the therapeutic potential of its product candidates; the intended results of its strategy and argenx’s, and its collaboration partners’, advancement of, and anticipated clinical development, data readouts and regulatory milestones and plans, including the timing of planned clinical trials and expected data readouts; the design of future clinical trials and the timing and outcome of regulatory filings and regulatory approvals. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties and readers are cautioned that any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance. argenx’s actual results may differ materially from those predicted by the forward-looking statements as a result of various important factors, including the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, argenx’s expectations regarding its the inherent uncertainties associated with competitive developments, preclinical and clinical trial and product development activities and regulatory approval requirements; argenx’s reliance on collaborations with third parties; estimating the commercial potential of argenx’s product candidates; argenx’s ability to obtain and maintain protection of intellectual property for its technologies and drugs; argenx’s limited operating history; and argenx’s ability to obtain additional funding for operations and to complete the development and commercialization of its product candidates. A further list and description of these risks, uncertainties and other risks can be found in argenx’s U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) filings and reports, including in argenx’s most recent annual report on Form 20-F filed with the SEC as well as subsequent filings and reports filed by argenx with the SEC. Given these uncertainties, the reader is advised not to place any undue reliance on such forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of publication of this document. argenx undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise the information in this press release, including any forward-looking statements, except as may be required by law.

5

UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED INTERIM FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

ARGENX SE

UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED INTERIM STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION

As of

June 30,

December 31,

(in thousands of $)

    

Note

    

2021

    

2020 (*)

ASSETS

 

 

 

  

 

 

  

Current assets

 

 

  

 

  

Cash and cash equivalents

 

5, 15

 

$

1,581,893

 

$

1,216,803

Research and development incentive receivables — current

 

 

 

463

Financial assets — current

 

6, 15

 

1,149,104

 

779,649

Prepaid expenses

 

 

62,397

 

27,913

Inventories

7

59,217

25,195

Trade and other receivables

 

 

12,051

 

6,978

Total current assets

 

 

$

2,864,663

 

$

2,057,001

Noncurrent assets

 

 

  

 

  

Restricted Cash - non-current

 

 

1,437

 

1,509

Financial assets - non-current

8, 15

118,021

6,307

Research and development incentive receivables — non-current

 

 

26,080

 

20,626

Deferred tax asset

16,254

15,038

Property, plant and equipment

 

 

11,394

 

11,582

Intangible assets

 

 

175,173

 

167,344

Total noncurrent assets

 

 

$

348,359

 

$

222,406

TOTAL ASSETS

 

 

$

3,213,022

 

$

2,279,407

(*) The Company has adopted a change in its presentation currency from EUR to USD at January 1, 2021, as described in note 4. Accordingly, the December 31, 2020 comparative statements of financial position and related notes have been re-presented retrospectively based on the procedures as outlined in note 4.

The notes are an integral part of these unaudited condensed consolidated interim financial statements

6

As of

June 30,

December 31,

(in thousands of $)

    

Note

    

2021

    

2020 (*)

EQUITY AND LIABILITIES

 

 

 

  

 

 

  

Equity

 

9

 

  

 

  

Equity attributable to owners of the parent

 

 

  

 

  

Share capital

 

 

$

6,202

 

$

5,744

Share premium

 

 

3,442,742

 

2,339,033

Translation Differences

133,161

134,732

Accumulated losses

 

 

(928,764)

 

(991,931)

Other reserves

 

 

298,592

 

186,474

Total equity

 

 

$

2,951,933

 

$

1,674,052

Non-current liabilities

 

 

 

Provisions for employee benefits

 

 

227

 

155

Deferred tax liabilities

12,388

1,487

Lease liabilities — non-current

4,431

6,181

Deferred revenue — non-current

269,039

Total non-current liabilities

17,046

276,862

Current liabilities

 

 

Lease liabilities — current

3,450

3,476

Trade and other payables

 

 

239,439

 

275,192

Tax liabilities

1,154

3,497

Deferred revenue — current

 

 

 

46,328

Total current liabilities

244,043

328,493

Total liabilities

 

 

$

261,089

 

$

605,355

TOTAL EQUITY AND LIABILITIES

 

 

$

3,213,022

 

$

2,279,407

(*) The Company has adopted a change in its presentation currency from EUR to USD at January 1, 2021, as described in note 4. Accordingly, the December 31, 2020 comparative statements of financial position and related notes have been re-presented retrospectively based on the procedures as outlined in note 4.

The notes are an integral part of these unaudited condensed consolidated interim financial statements.

7

ARGENX SE

UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED INTERIM STATEMENT OF PROFIT AND LOSS

Six Months Ended

June 30,

(in thousands of $ except for shares and EPS)

    

Note

    

2021

    

2020 (*)

Revenue

    

11

    

$

470,398

    

$

24,683

Other operating income

 

 

17,079

 

9,619

Total operating income

 

 

487,477

 

34,302

Research and development expenses

 

13

 

(273,907)

 

(189,251)

Selling, general and administrative expenses

 

14

 

(129,599)

 

(67,926)

Total operating expenses

(403,506)

(257,177)

Change in fair value on non-current financial assets

15

11,152

934

Operating income / (loss)

 

 

$

95,123

 

$

(221,941)

Financial income/(expense)

 

 

(745)

 

(2,403)

Exchange gains/(losses)

 

 

(18,375)

 

245

Profit / (Loss) for the period before taxes

 

  

 

$

76,003

 

$

(224,099)

Income tax (expense)/benefit

 

 

$

(12,835)

 

$

(2,491)

Profit / (Loss) for the period

 

  

 

$

63,167

 

$

(226,590)

Profit / (Loss) for the period attributable to:

Owners of the parent

63,167

(226,590)

Weighted average number of shares outstanding

 

  

 

50,638,702

 

43,476,103

Basic profit / (loss) per share (in $)

 

 

1.25

 

(5.21)

Diluted profit / (loss) per share (in $)

1.17

(5.21)

(*) The Company has adopted a change in its presentation currency from EUR to USD at January 1, 2021, as described in note 4. Accordingly, the June 30, 2020 comparative statements of profit and loss and related notes have been re-presented retrospectively based on the procedures as outlined in note 4.

The notes are an integral part of these unaudited condensed consolidated interim financial statements.

8

ARGENX SE

UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED INTERIM STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE PROFIT OR LOSS

Six Months Ended

June 30,

(in thousands of $ except for shares)

    

Note

    

2021

    

2020 (*)

Profit / (Loss) for the period

    

    

$

63,167

    

$

(226,590)

Items that may be reclassified subsequently to profit or loss, net of tax

Currency translation differences, arisen from translating foreign activities

(1,571)

Translation effect

2,417

Items that will not be reclassified to profit or loss, net of tax

Fair value gain/(loss) on investments in equity instruments designated as at FVTOCI

15

19,172

 

 

 

Other comprehensive income / (loss), net of income tax

 

 

17,601

 

2,417

Total comprehensive profit / (loss) attributable to:

 

 

80,768

 

(224,173)

Owners of the parent

 

 

80,768

 

(224,173)

(*) The Company has adopted a change in its presentation currency from EUR to USD at January 1, 2021, as described in note 4. Accordingly, the June 30, 2020 comparative statements of comprehensive profit or loss have been re-presented retrospectively based on the procedures as outlined in note 4.

The notes are an integral part of these unaudited condensed consolidated interim financial statements.

9

ARGENX SE

UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED INTERIM STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS

Six Months Ended

June 30,

(in thousands of $)

    

Note

    

2021

    

2020 (*)

Operating result

 

  

 

$

95,123

 

$

(221,941)

Adjustments for non-cash items

 

  

 

 

  

Amortization of intangible assets

 

 

492

 

61

Depreciation of property, plant and equipment

 

 

2,471

 

1,645

Provisions for employee benefits

71

0

Expense recognized in respect of share-based payments

 

10

 

92,055

 

39,447

Fair value gains on financial assets at fair value through profit or loss

15

(11,152)

(934)

 

 

$

179,060

 

$

(181,722)

Movements in current assets/liabilities

 

 

  

 

  

(Increase)/decrease in trade and other receivables

 

 

(4,101)

 

19,313

(Increase)/decrease in inventories

7

(34,022)

(5,485)

(Increase)/decrease in other current assets

 

 

(34,435)

 

(2,157)

Increase/(decrease) in trade and other payables

 

 

78,367

 

47,133

Increase/(decrease) in deferred revenue — current

 

 

(46,327)

 

(5,559)

Movements in non-current assets/liabilities

(Increase)/decrease in other non‑current assets

 

 

(80,703)

 

(2,739)

Increase/(decrease) in deferred revenue — non-current

(269,039)

(17,050)

Cash flows (used in) / from operating activities

(211,200)

(148,266)

Interest paid

(420)

(156)

Income taxes paid

(13,449)

(1,436)

Net cash flows (used in) / from operating activities

 

 

$

(225,069)

 

$

(149,858)

 

 

  

 

  

Purchase of intangible assets

 

 

(121,047)

 

(925)

Purchase of property, plant and equipment

 

 

(2,389)

 

(740)

(Increase)/decrease in financial assets — current

 

6

 

(370,335)

 

299,379

Interest received

 

 

1,449

 

5,262

Net cash flows (used in) / from investing activities

 

 

$

(492,322)

 

$

302,976

 

 

  

 

  

Principal elements of lease payments

(1,804)

(1,163)

Proceeds from issue of new shares, gross amount

 

9

 

1,091,264

 

813,186

Issue costs paid

9

(528)

(613)

Exchange gain from currency conversion on proceeds from issue of new shares

966

68

Proceeds from exercise of stock options

9

13,429

5,100

Net cash flows from/used in (-) financing activities

 

 

$

1,103,327

 

$

816,578

Increase/decrease (-) in cash and cash equivalents

 

 

$

385,936

 

$

969,696

Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the period

 

  

 

$

1,216,803

 

$

372,162

Exchange gains/(losses) on cash & cash equivalents

 

 

$

(20,846)

 

$

3,518

Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the period

 

  

 

$

1,581,893

 

$

1,345,376

(*) The Company has adopted a change in its presentation currency from EUR to USD at January 1, 2021, as described in note 4. Accordingly, the June 30, 2020 comparative statements of cash flows have been re-presented retrospectively based on the procedures as outlined in note 4.

The notes are an integral part of these unaudited condensed consolidated interim financial statements.

10

ARGENX SE

UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED INTERIM STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY

Attributable to Owners of the Parent (*)

    

    

    

    

    

    

Total

  

  

Equity

 

 

 

Attributable

 

to Owners

Share

Share

Accumulated

Translation

Other

of the

Total

(in thousands of $)

Capital

Premium

Losses

 

Difference

 

Reserves

 

Parent

Equity

Balance year ended December 31, 2019

 

$

5,209

 

$

1,505,641

 

$

(383,477)

 

$

(27,541)

 

$

80,577

 

$

1,180,409

  

 

$

1,180,409

Total loss of the period

 

$

  

 

$

  

 

$

(226,590)

$

  

 

$

  

 

$

(226,590)

$

(226,590)

Share-based payment

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

 

39,447

 

39,447

  

 

39,447

Issue of share capital

468

 

812,718

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

813,186

  

 

813,186

Transaction costs for equity issue

(613)

(613)

(613)

Exercise of stock options

 

13

 

2,836

 

  

 

 

 

2,849

  

 

2,849

Translation effect (*)

2,417

2,417

2,417

Balance period ended June 30, 2020

 

$

5,690

 

$

2,320,583

 

$

(610,068)

 

$

(25,124)

 

$

120,024

 

$

1,811,104

  

 

$

1,811,104

Balance year ended December 31, 2020

$

5,744

 

$

2,339,033

 

$

(991,931)

 

$

134,732

 

$

186,474

 

$

1,674,052

  

 

$

1,674,052

Total profit of the period

 

$

  

 

$

  

 

$

63,167

$

  

 

$

  

 

$

63,167

$

63,167

Other comprehensive income / (loss)

19,172

19,172

19,172

Income tax benefit from excess tax deductions related to share-based payments

933

933

933

Share-based payment

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

92,013

 

92,013

  

 

92,013

Issue of new shares

 

430

 

1,090,836

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

1,091,266

  

 

1,091,266

Share issue costs

(528)

(528)

(528)

Exercise of stock options

 

28

 

13,401

 

  

 

 

 

13,429

  

 

13,429

Currency translation effect

(1,571)

(1,571)

(1,571)

Balance period ended June 30, 2021

 

$

6,202

 

$

3,442,742

 

$

(928,764)

 

$

133,161

 

$

298,592

 

$

2,951,933

  

 

$

2,951,933

(*) The Company has adopted a change in its presentation currency from EUR to USD at January 1, 2021, as described in note 4. Accordingly, the June 30, 2020 comparative statements of changes in equity have been re-presented retrospectively based on the procedures as outlined in note 4.

Please refer to note 9 for more information on the share capital and movement in number of shares and note 10 for more information on the share-based payments.

The notes are an integral part of these unaudited condensed consolidated interim financial statements.

11

ARGENX SE

NOTES TO THE UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED INTERIM FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

1.

General information about the company

argenx SE (the “Company”) is a Dutch European public company with limited liability incorporated under the laws of the Netherlands. The company (COC 24435214) has its official seat in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, and its registered office is at Willemstraat 5, 4811 AH, Breda, the Netherlands.

argenx SE is a publicly traded company with ordinary shares listed on Euronext Brussels under the symbol “ARGX” since July 2014 and with American Depositary Shares listed on Nasdaq under the symbol “ARGX” since May 2017.

2. Impacts of COVID-19 on our business

The current unprecedented challenges as a result of the COVID-19 outbreak have impacted how we operate. We have been taking, and continue to take, the necessary steps in terms of safety, risk mitigation, and financial measures to best manage through these challenging times. We have currently experienced limited impact on our financial performance and financial position, although we continue to face additional risks and challenges associated with the impact of the outbreak.

3.

Basis of preparation

The unaudited condensed consolidated interim financial statements for the six months ended June 30, 2021 have been prepared in accordance with IAS 34 ‘Interim Financial Reporting’ as issued by the IASB and as adopted by the European Union. The unaudited condensed consolidated interim financial statements should be read in conjunction with the annual financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2020.

All amounts herein are presented in thousands of $, unless otherwise indicated, rounded to the nearest $ ‘000.

The unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements have been approved for issue by the Company’s Board of Directors (the “Board”) on July 27, 2021.

4.

Significant accounting policies

There were no significant changes in accounting policies, critical accounting judgements and key sources of estimation uncertainty applied by us in these unaudited condensed interim financial statements compared to those used in the annual consolidated financial statements as of December 31, 2020, except for the changes below:

Financial Instruments – non-current Financial Assets

The Company holds investments in non-current financial assets, which based on IFRS 9, are either designated as financial assets at fair value through profit or loss or financial assets at fair value through OCI. The fair value of listed investments is based upon the closing price of such securities at each reporting date. If there is no active market for an equity instrument, the Company establishes the fair value by using valuation techniques.

Based on IFRS 9, the Company irrevocably elected to designate specific investments as a financial asset at fair value through OCI as the participation is not held for trading purposes nor contingent consideration recognised by an acquirer in a business combination.

Foreign Currency Transactions

Functional and Presentation Currency

12

Items included in the consolidated financial statements of each of our entities are valued using the currency of their economic environment in which the entity operates. As of January 1, 2021, the consolidated financial statements are presented in USD, which is the Company’s presentation currency.

Financial Statements of Foreign Entities

As of January 1, 2021, for foreign entities using a different functional currency than USD:

assets and liabilities for each consolidated statements of financial position presented are translated at the closing rate at the date of that statement of financial position.
income and expenses for each statement presenting profit or loss and other comprehensive income are translated at average exchange rates (unless this average is not a reasonable approximation of the cumulative effect of the rates prevailing on the transaction dates, in which case income and expenses are translated at the rate on the dates of the transactions).
all resulting exchange differences are recognised in other comprehensive income.

Change in functional and presentation currency as of January 1, 2021

As of January 1, 2021, the Company changed its functional and presentation currency from EUR to USD. The change in functional currency was made to reflect that USD has become the predominant currency in the Company, representing a significant part of the Company’s cash flows and financing. The change has been implemented with prospective effect.

The change in presentation currency, effective January 1, 2021, from EUR to USD is retroactively applied on comparative figures according to IAS 8 and IAS 21, as if USD had always been the presentation currency of the consolidated financial statements. The change was made to reflect that USD is the predominant currency for the Company, and better reflects the economic footprint of the Company’s business going forward. The Company believes that the presentation currency change will give investors and other stakeholders a clearer understanding of the Company’s performance over time.

Comparison figures in the consolidated interim statement of financial position, the consolidated statements of profit and loss and other comprehensive income, the consolidated statement of changes in equity, and consolidated statements of cash flows, all condensed and unaudited, and disclosures have been re-presented, unless otherwise stated, using the procedures outlined below:

Assets and liabilities are translated into USD at the closing rates applicable at the end of each reporting period.
Income and expenses are translated at exchange rates at the dates of the respective transaction or average rates where these are a suitable proxy.
Differences resulting from the re-presentation have been presented as translation difference, a component within shareholders’ equity.
Share capital, share premium, and other reserves are translated at historic rates prevailing at the date of transaction.

13

5.

Cash and cash equivalents

As of

June 30,

December 31,

(in thousands of $)

    

2021

    

2020

Money market funds

 

$

1,370,363

 

$

858,292

Term accounts

59,422

61,356

Cash and bank balances

 

152,108

 

297,155

Total cash and cash equivalents

 

$

1,581,893

 

$

1,216,803

On June 30, 2021, cash and cash equivalents amounted to $1,581.9 million, compared to $1,216.8 million on December 31, 2020 and included money market funds, readily convertible to cash and subject to an insignificant risk of changes in value, term accounts, with an original maturity of 3 months or less and cash and bank balances held in different financial institutions. Cash and bank balances were mainly composed of saving accounts and current accounts.

Please also refer to note 15 for more information on the financial instruments.

6.

Current financial assets

On June 30, 2021, the current financial assets amounted to $1,149.1 million, compared to $779.6 million on December 31, 2020. These current financial assets relate to term accounts with an original maturity longer than 3 months and money market funds which do not qualify as cash equivalents.

Please also refer to note 15 for more information on the financial instruments.

7.

Inventories

As of

June 30,

December 31,

(in thousands of $)

    

2021

    

2020

Raw materials and consumables

 

$

41,230

 

$

18,608

Inventories in process

 

17,987

 

6,587

Finished goods

Total inventories

 

$

59,217

 

$

25,195

On June 30, 2021, inventories amounted to $59.2 million and related to pre-launch efgartigimod-inventory, capitalized subsequent to the announcement of the topline data from the pivotal Adapt trial of efgartigimod. For the six months ended June 30, 2021, $5.1 million was used in research and development activities.

8.

Financial Assets – non-current

As of

June 30,

December 31,

(in thousands of $)

    

2021

    

2020

Non-current financial assets held at fair value through profit or loss

 

$

17,458

 

$

6,307

Non-current financial assets held at fair value through OCI

 

100,563

 

Total financial assets - non-current

 

$

118,021

 

$

6,307

Please also refer to note 15 for more information on the financial instruments.

14

9.

Shareholders’ capital

On June 30, 2021, argenx SE’s share capital was represented by 51,398,663 shares. All shares were issued, fully paid up and of the same class. The table below summarizes our capital increases, as a result of the global offering and the exercise of stock options under the argenx Employee Stock Option Plan, for the period ended June 30, 2021.

Number of shares outstanding on December 31, 2020

 

47,571,283

Exercise of options

233,630

Global public offering on Euronext and Nasdaq on February 2, 2021

3,125,000

Over-allotment option exercised by underwriters on February 4, 2021

468,750

Number of shares outstanding on June 30, 2021

 

51,398,663

On February 2, 2021, argenx SE offered 3,125,000 of its ordinary shares through a global offering which consisted of 1,608,000 ADSs in the U.S. at a price of $320.0 per ADS, before underwriting discounts and commissions and offering expenses; and 1,517,000 ordinary shares in the European Economic Area at a price of €265.69 per share, before underwriting discounts and commissions and offering expenses. On February 4, 2021, the underwriters of the offering exercised their over-allotment option to purchase 468,750 additional ADSs in full. As a result, argenx SE received $1,146.7 million in gross proceeds from this offering, decreased by $56.6 million of underwriter discounts and commissions, and offering expenses, of which $56.0 million has been deducted from equity. The total net cash proceeds from the offering amounted to $1,090.1 million.

On May 11, 2021, at the annual general meeting, the shareholders of the Company approved the authorization to the Board to issue up to a maximum of 10% of the then-outstanding share capital, for a period of 18 months.

10.

Share-based payments

On April 1, 2021, the Company granted a total of 67,833 stock options to certain of its employees, Board members and consultants. Below is an overview of the parameters used in relation to the new grant during 2021:

Stock options granted in

April 2021

Number of options granted

67,833

Fair value of options (in USD) (*)

$

98.96 - 154.88

Share price (in USD) (*)

$

248.90 - 283.67

Exercise price (in USD) (*)

$

275.33

Expected volatility

%  

54.24 - 60.01

Expected option life (in years)

4 - 6.50

Risk‑free interest rate

%  

(0.41) - (0.08)

Expected dividends

(*) amounts have been converted to US dollar at the closing rate of grant date

On May 11, 2021, at the annual general meeting, the shareholders of the Company approved the 2021 remuneration policy, including the Company’s 2021 Equity Incentive Plan providing in both stock option as well as restricted stock units.

Stock options

The stock options are granted to employees, consultants or directors of the Company and its subsidiaries. The stock options have been granted free of charge. Each employee’s stock option converts into one ordinary share of the Company upon ex­ercise. The stock options carry neither rights to dividends nor voting rights. Stock options may be exercised at any time from the date of vesting to the date of their expiry.

15

The stock options vest, in principle, as follows:

1/3 of the total grant on the first anniversary of the date of grant; and
1/36th of the total grant on the first day of each month following the first full year.

Upon leave of the employee, consultant or director, stock options must be exercised before the later of (i) 90 days after the last working day at argenx, or (ii) March 31 of the 4th year following the date of grant of those stock options, and in any case no later than the expiration date of the option.

The total share-based payment expense recognized in the unaudited condensed consolidated statement of profit and loss totaled $92.1 million for the six months ended June 30, 2021 compared to $39.4 million for the six months ended June 30, 2020.

11.Revenue

For the six months ended June 30, 2021, the majority of the revenue was generated under the collaboration agreements signed with Zai Lab and Janssen. These agreements comprise elements of upfront payments, milestone payments based on development criteria and research and development service fees.

Six Months Ended

June 30,

(in thousands of $)

    

2021

    

2020

Upfront payments

 

$

444,303

 

$

20,592

Zai Lab

151,903

-

Janssen

292,278

20,264

AbbVie

121

291

Other

37

Milestone payments

 

24,181

 

2,020

Janssen

22,865

1,585

AbbVie

102

417

Other

1,214

18

Research and development service fees

1,914

 

2,071

Janssen

1,892

1,994

Other

22

77

Total revenue

 

$

470,398

 

$

24,683

Below is a summary of the key changes to our collaborations:

Zai Lab

On January 6, 2021, argenx and Zai Lab announced the License agreement for the development and commercialization of efgartigimod in Greater China, granting Zai Lab the exclusive rights to develop and commercialize efgartigimod in Greater China.

Under the terms of the agreement, the Company may receive up to $175 million in collaboration payments, comprised of a $75 million upfront payment in the form of 568,182 newly issued Zai Lab shares calculated at a price of $132 per share, $75 million as guaranteed non-creditable, non-refundable payment, received in the first six months ended June 30, 2021, and an additional $25 million milestone payment upon approval of efgartigimod in the U.S. The Company is also eligible to receive tiered royalties (mid-teen to low twenties on a percentage basis) based on annual net sales of efgartigimod in Greater China.

16

With regard to this collaboration with Zai Lab:

The Company concluded there are two performance obligations under IFRS 15, being the transfer of a license and the at arms-length supply of clinical and commercial product. The Company concluded that these performance obligations are distinct in the context of the contract.
The Company concluded that the Subscription Shares granted by Zai Lab, as included in the Share Issuance Agreement, entered into on January 6, 2021, was obtained because of the existing obligations under the terms of the Collaboration and License Agreement, and is therefore to be considered to be part of the overall consideration received.
The transaction price of these two agreements is currently composed of a fixed part, that being an upfront payment of $75 million in the form of newly issued Zai Lab shares, and a $75 million guaranteed, non-creditable, non-refundable payment and a contingent part, being the $25 million milestone upon approval of efgartigimod in the U.S. and the consideration received in return for the supply of clinical and commercial product. Milestone payments are only included in the transaction price to the extent it is highly probable that a significant reversal in the amount of cumulative revenue recognition will not occur when the uncertainty associated with the contingent consideration is subsequently resolved. We estimate the amount to be included in the transaction price upon achievement of the milestone event or the supply of clinical and commercial product. Sales-based milestones and sales-based royalties are a part of the Company’s arrangements but are not yet included in its revenue.
The fixed part of the transaction price, as well as the $25 million milestone upon approval of efgartigimod in the U.S. has been allocated to the transfer of a license performance obligation.
The Company concludes that the license as of the effective date of the contract has standalone value. As such, the Company concluded that the promise in granting the license to Zai is to provide a right to use the entity’s intellectual property as it exists at the point in time at which the license is granted and therefore, revenue accrued has been recognised at a point in time. This conclusion was reached, taking into account following aspects:
othere are no material restrictions included in the contract which would prevent Zai Lab to direct the use of, and obtain substantially all of the remaining benefits, within the Territory and considering the sales-based royalties which become due to the Company upon successful commercialisation
othe current phase of efgartigimod, successfully completed the Phase III trials.

Janssen

On June 4, 2021, the Company received a termination notification from Cilag GmbH International, an affiliate of Janssen, which results in the termination of the Collaboration Agreement to jointly develop and commercialize cusatuzumab. As a result the Company regains the worldwide rights to its anti-CD70 antibody cusatuzumab.

Under the terms of the agreement, Janssen committed to an upfront payment of $500 million consisting of a license payment of $300 million and a $200 million equity investment in the Company by subscribing to 1,766,899 new shares at a price of €100.02 per share, including an issuance premium. In December 2019, the Company achieved the first development milestone, triggering a $25.0 million payment.

With regard to this collaboration with Janssen, the Company concluded as follows:

There was one single performance obligation under IFRS 15, that being the transfer of a license combined with performance of research and development activities. The Company concluded that the license is not distinct in the context of the contract.

17

The Company concluded that the share premium that Janssen paid above the closing price on the day of entering into the investment agreement (being December 2, 2018) was paid because of the existing obligations to deliver development services under the terms of the collaboration agreement, and was therefore considered to be part of the overall con­sideration received.
The transaction price of these two agreements composed of a fixed part, that being an upfront license fee, and a variable part, being milestone payments and cost reimbursements of research and development activities delivered.
The transaction price was allocated to the single performance obligation and revenue was previously recognized over the estimated service period based on a pattern that reflects the transfer of the license and progress to complete satisfac­tion of the research and development activities.

Following the receipt of the termination notification and as of June 30, 2021, the Company concluded that it has substantially satisfied the performance obligation, and as a consequence, recorded $315.1 million of revenue for the six months ended June 30, 2021.

12.

Segment reporting

The Company operates from the Netherlands, Belgium, the United States and Japan. Revenues are generated by external customers with their main registered office geographically located as shown in the table below.

Six Months Ended

June 30,

(in thousands of $)

    

2021

    

2020

United States

 

$

317,258

 

$

24,551

China

151,903

Other

1,237

132

Total revenue

 

$

470,398

 

$

24,683

13.

Research and development expenses

Six Months Ended

June 30,

(in thousands of $)

    

2021

    

2020

Personnel expense

 

$

(76,094)

 

$

(37,510)

External research and development expenses

 

(174,915)

 

(140,869)

Materials and consumables

 

(1,014)

 

(1,396)

Depreciation and amortization

 

(1,784)

 

(1,208)

Other expenses

 

(20,100)

 

(8,268)

Total research and development expenses

 

$

(273,907)

 

$

(189,251)

18

14. Selling, general and administrative expenses

Six Months Ended

June 30,

(in thousands of $)

    

2021

    

2020

Personnel expense

 

$

(70,179)

 

$

(40,271)

Consulting fees

 

(40,031)

 

(20,631)

Supervisory board

 

(6,776)

 

(2,418)

Other Expenses

 

(12,613)

 

(4,606)

Total selling, general and administrative expenses

 

$

(129,599)

 

$

(67,926)

6.

15.

Financial instruments and financial risk management

The Company carried the following assets at fair value on June 30, 2021 and December 31, 2020, respectively:

At June 30, 2021

(in thousands of $)

    

Level 1

    

Level 2

    

Level 3

Non-current financial assets

 

$

  

 

$

  

 

$

17,458

Non-current financial assets

100,563

Current financial assets

1,149,104

Cash equivalents

 

1,370,363

 

  

 

  

Assets carried at fair value

 

$

2,620,030

 

$

 

$

17,458

At December 31, 2020

(in thousands of $)

    

Level 1

    

Level 2

    

Level 3

Non-current financial assets

 

$

  

 

$

  

 

$

6,307

Current financial assets

 

779,649

 

  

 

  

Cash equivalents

858,291

Assets carried at fair value

 

$

1,637,940

 

$

 

$

6,307

Non-current financial assets – Level 3

In March 2019, the Company entered into a license agreement with AgomAb Therapeutics NV for the use of HGF-mimetic SIMPLE Antibodies™, developed under the Company’s Innovative Access Program. In exchange for granting this license, the Company received a profit share in AgomAb Therapeutics NV. The Company assessed the accounting treatment and concluded that the license agreement is in scope of IFRS 15 and that any revenue should be recognized at once at the effective date of the agreement. The profit share has been designated as a non-current financial asset held at fair value through profit or loss. Since AgomAb Therapeutics NV is a private company, the valuation of the profit share is based on level 3 assumptions.

In March 2021, AgomAb Therapeutics NV secured $74 million Series B in Series B by issuing 286,705 of Preferred B Shares. The Company used the post-money valuation of this Series B financing round and the number of outstanding shares in determining the fair value of the profit-sharing instrument, which results in a change in fair value of non-current financial assets of $11.2 million recorded through profit or loss.

Non-current financial assets – Level 1

As part of the license agreement for the development and commercialization for efgartigimod in Greater China (see note 11 for further information), the Company obtained, amongst others, 568,182 newly issued Zai Lab shares calculated at a price of $132 per share. The fair value of the equity instrument at period-end is determined by reference to the closing price of such securities at each reporting date (classified as level 1 in the fair value hierarchy), resulting in a change in fair value of $25.6 million. The Company made the irrevocable election to recognize subsequent changes in fair value through OCI.

19

Current financial assets and Cash equivalents – Level 1 (see note 11 for further information)

16.

Contractual obligations and commitments

The Company’s manufacturing commitments with Lonza, its drug substance manufacturing contractor, relate to the ongoing execution of the biologic license application (BLA) services for efgartigimod and its manufacturing activities related to the potential future commercialisation. In December 2018, the Company signed its first commercial supply agreement with Lonza related to the reservation of commercial drug substance supply capacity for efgartigimod. In the aggregate, the Company has outstanding commitments for efgartigimod under the first commercial supply agreement of $140.7 million.

20