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Ligand Pharmaceuticals

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FY2018 Annual Report · Ligand Pharmaceuticals
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UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
FORM 10-K
_____________________________________________________________________________________________

x ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 2018

OR

o TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the transition period from              to             .

Commission File No. 001-33093

LIGAND PHARMACEUTICALS INCORPORATED
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Delaware
(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)
3911 Sorrento Valley Boulevard, Suite 110
San Diego, CA
(Address of Principal Executive Offices)

77-0160744
(IRS Employer
Identification No.)

92121 
(Zip Code)

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: (858) 550-7500
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

Title of Each Class
Common Stock, par value $.001 per share

Name of Each Exchange on Which Registered
The Nasdaq Global Market of The Nasdaq Stock Market LLC

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:
None

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.    Yes   x    No  o 
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of
1934.    Yes  o    No  x
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant: (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing
requirements for the past 90 days.    Yes  x    No  o
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to Rule 405 of
Regulation S-T (§ 232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit such
files).    Yes  x    No  o
Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the
best of registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment
to this Form 10-K. o
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company or an
emerging growth company. See definition of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” “smaller reporting company” and "emerging growth
company" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Large Accelerated Filer  x

Emerging growth company  o

Smaller reporting company  o

Non-accelerated Filer  o

Accelerated Filer  o

If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with

any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. o

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Exchange Act Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).    Yes   o    No  x

The aggregate market value of the Registrant’s voting and non-voting stock held by non-affiliates was approximately $ 3.6 billion based on the last

sales price of the Registrant’s Common Stock on the Nasdaq Global Market of the Nasdaq Stock Market LLC on June 29, 2018. For purposes of this
calculation, shares of Common Stock held by directors, officers and 10% stockholders known to the Registrant have been deemed to be owned by
affiliates which should not be construed to indicate that any such person possesses the power, direct or indirect, to direct or cause the direction of the
management or policies of the Registrant or that such person is controlled by or under common control with the Registrant.

As of February 25, 2019, the Registrant had 20,445,407 shares of Common Stock outstanding.

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

Portions of the Proxy Statement for the Registrant’s 2019 Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be filed with the Commission within 120 days of
December 31, 2018 are incorporated by reference in Part III of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. With the exception of those portions that are
specifically incorporated by reference in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, such Proxy Statement shall not be deemed filed as part of this Report or
incorporated by reference herein.

Table of Contents

Business
Risk Factors
Unresolved Staff Comments
Properties
Legal Proceedings
Mine Safety Disclosures

Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters, and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
Selected Consolidated Financial Data
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
Consolidated Financial Statements and Supplementary Data
Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure
Controls and Procedures
Other Information

Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance
Executive Compensation
Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters
Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence
Principal Accountant Fees and Services

Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules
Form 10K - Summary

Part I
Item 1.
Item 1A.
Item 1B.
Item 2.
Item 3.
Item 4.

Part II
Item 5.
Item 6.
Item 7.
Item 7A.
Item 8.
Item 9.
Item 9A.
Item 9B.

Part III
Item 10.
Item 11.
Item 12.
Item 13.
Item 14.

Part IV
Item 15.
Item 16.
Signatures

5
23
32
32
33
33

33
34
36
44
45
82
82
82

85
85
85
85
85

86
86
91

 
Abbreviation 

GLOSSARY OF TERMS AND ABBREVIATIONS 
Definition 

2019 Notes 
2023 Notes 
AACR 
ADHF 

Amended Interest Purchase Agreement
Aldeyra
AMD
Amgen
ANDA 
API 
Apricus
Aptevo
Arcus
ASC
ASCO
ASCT
ASH 
ASU 
Aziyo 
Azure 
Baxter 
BiTE
BMS 
C-Stone
CASI 
Cardioxyl 
Code of Conduct
Coherus
CoM
Company 
Convertible Note
COPD 
Cormatrix 
Cormatrix Asset Sale
Corvus 
COSO 
CRO 
Crystal
CStone
CURx
CVR 
CyDex
Daiichi Sankyo

$245.0 million aggregate principal amount of convertible senior unsecured notes due 2019 
$750.0 million aggregate principal amount of convertible senior unsecured notes due 2023 
American Association for Cancer Research 
Acute decompensated heart failure 
Amended and Restated Interest Purchase Agreement, dated May 31, 2017, between the
Company and CorMatrix Cardiovascular, Inc.
Aldeyra Therapeutics, Inc. 
Age-related macular degeneration 
Amgen, Inc. 
Abbreviated New Drug Application 
Active pharmaceutical ingredient
Apricus Biosciences, Inc.
Aptevo Therapeutics 
Arcus Biosciences, Inc.
Accounting Standards Codification 
American Society of Clinical Oncology 
Autologous Stem Cell Transplantation
American Society of Hematology 
Accounting Standards Update  
Aziyo Med, LLC 
Azure Biotech, Inc. 
Baxter International, Inc. 
Bispecific T cell engager
Bristol Myers Squibb 
CStone Pharmaceuticals Co., Ltd.
CASI Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
Cardioxyl Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
Code of Conduct and Ethics Policy
Coherus Biosciences, Inc.
Composition of Matter
Ligand Pharmaceuticals Incorporated, including subsidiaries 
Senior Convertible Promissory Note
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease  
Cormatrix Cardiovascular Inc.
Asset sale from CorMatrix to Aziyo
Corvus Pharmaceuticals, Inc. 
Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission 
Contract Research Organization 
Crystal Bioscience, Inc.
CStone Pharmaceuticals
CURx Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
Contingent value right 
CyDex Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
Daiichi Sankyo Company, LTD

Dianomi 
DMF 
Eisai
Eli Lilly
EMC
EPOR
ESPP
EU 
Exelixis
FASB 
FDA 
Fred Hutch 
FSGS 
GAAP
GCSF
GRA 
HanAll
Harbour 
HCO 
HNO 
Hovione 
IPR&D 
IRAK4
IRS 
ITP 
IV 
iMBP 
Immunovant 
IND 

Original Interest Purchase Agreement
KSQ Therapeutics 
Ligand 

Loan and Security Agreement
LTP 
Lundbeck 
Marinus
MCM 
MDS 
Melinta 
Merck 
Merrimack
Metabasis 
Metavant
MLA 
MRSA 

Dianomi Therapeutics 
Drug Master File 
Eisai Inc.
Eli Lilly and Company
Extracellular matrix
Erythropoietin receptor
Employee Stock Purchase Plan, as amended and restated 
European Union 
Exelixis, Inc.
Financial Accounting Standards Board 
Food and Drug Administration 
The Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center 
Focal segmental glomerulosclerosis 
Generally accepted accounting principles in the United States
Granulocyte-colony stimulating factor
Glucagon receptor antagonist
HanAll Biopharma Co., Ltd.
Harbour BioMed
Heavy-chain-only
Nitroxyl
Hovione FarmCiencia
In-Process Research and Development 
Interleukin-1 Receptor Associated Kinase-4
Internal Revenue Service 
Chronic immune (idiopathic) thrombocytopenic purpura 
Intravenous 
iMetabolic Biopharma Corporation  
Immunovant Sciences GmbH
Investigational New Drug 
Interest Purchase Agreement, dated May 3, 2016, between the Company and CorMatrix
Cardiovascular, Inc.
KSQ Therapeutics, Inc. 
Ligand Pharmaceuticals Incorporated, including subsidiaries 
Loan and Security Agreement, dated May 21, 2014, between the Company and Viking, as
amended by the First Amendment to Loan and Security Agreement, dated April 8, 2015, and the
Second Amendment to Loan and Security Agreement, dated January 22, 2016
Liver-targeted prodrug 
Lundbeck A/S 
Marinus Pharmaceuticals, Inc. 
Mineral Coated Microparticle 
Myelodysplastic syndromes 
Melinta Therapeutics, Inc. 
Merck & Co., Inc.
Merrimack Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
Metabasis Therapeutics, Inc. 
Metavant Sciences 
Master License Agreement 
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureu 

NASH 
NDA 
NOLs 
Novartis
OMT 
Omthera 
Ono 
Orange Book 
Palvella 
Par 
PDUFA
Pfizer
Pharmacopeia
Phoenix Tissue
PPD
PSU
Retrophin 
Roivant 
RSU  
SAA 
SAGE 
SARM 
SEC 
Sedor 
Seelos 
Selexis 
Sermonix
Spectrum 
Sunshine Lake Pharma
Syros  
Takeda
Tax Act
Teva
TG Therapeutics 
TPE 
TR-Beta
VDP
VentiRx
Vernalis 
Verona 
Viking 
Vireo
WuXi 

WuXi Agreement
X-ALD 
Zydus Cadila

Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis
New Drug Application 
Net Operating Losses 
Novartis AG
Open Monoclonal Technology, Inc.
Omthera Pharmaceuticals, Inc. 
Ono Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.
Publication identifying drug products approved by the FDA based on safety and effectiveness
Palvella Therapeutics, Inc. 
Par Pharmaceutical, Inc. 
Prescription Drug User Fee Act
Pfizer Inc.
Pharmacopeia, Inc.
Phoenix Tissue Repair
Post-Partum Depression
Performance stock unit
Retrophin Inc. 
Roivant Sciences GMBH 
Restricted stock unit 
Severe Aplastic Anemia 
Sage Therapeutics, Inc. 
Selective Androgen Receptor Modulator 
Securities and Exchange Commission 
Sedor Pharmaceuticals, Inc., or RODES, Inc. 
Seelos Therapeutics, Inc. 
Selexis, SA 
Sermonix Pharmaceuticals, LLC
Spectrum Pharmaceuticals, Inc. 
Sunshine Lake Pharma Co., Ltd.
Syros Pharmaceuticals, Inc.  
Takeda Pharmaceuticals Company Limited
The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act
Teva Pharmaceuticals USA, Inc., Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. and Actavis, LLC
TG Therapeutics, Inc. 
Third-party evidence 
Thyroid hormone receptor beta
Vernalis Design Platform
VentiRx Pharmaceuticals Inc.
Vernalis plc 
Verona Pharma plc 
Viking Therapeutics
Vireo Health
WuXi Biologics Ireland Limited 
The Platform License Agreement, dated March 23, 2015, by and between Ligand and WuXi, as
amended
X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy 
Zydus Cadila Healthcare Ltd

PART I

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements :

You should read the following report together with the more detailed information regarding our company, our common stock and

our financial statements and notes to those statements appearing elsewhere in this document.

This report contains forward-looking statements that involve a number of risks and uncertainties. Although our forward-looking

statements reflect the good faith judgment of our management, these statements can only be based on facts and factors currently known by
us. Consequently, these forward-looking statements are inherently subject to risks and uncertainties, and actual results and outcomes may
differ materially from results and outcomes discussed in the forward-looking statements.

Forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking words such as “believes,” “expects,” “may,” “will,”

“plan,” “intends,” “estimates,” “would,” “continue,” “seeks,” “pro forma,” or “anticipates,” or other similar words (including their use
in the negative), or by discussions of future matters such as those related to our future results of operations and financial position,
royalties and milestones under license agreements, Capitsol material sales, product development, and product regulatory filings and
approvals, and the timing thereof, as well as other statements that are not historical. You should be aware that the occurrence of any of the
events discussed under the caption “Risk Factors” could negatively affect our results of operations and financial condition and the trading
price of our stock.

The cautionary statements made in this report are intended to be applicable to all related forward-looking statements wherever they
may appear in this report. We urge you not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of
this report. Except as required by law, we assume no obligation to update our forward-looking statements, even if new information
becomes available in the future. This caution is made under the safe harbor provisions of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of
1934, as amended.

References to “Ligand Pharmaceuticals Incorporated,” “Ligand,” the “Company,” “we,” “our” and “us” include Ligand

Pharmaceuticals Incorporated and our wholly-owned subsidiaries.

Partner Information

Information regarding partnered products and programs comes from information publicly released by our partners and licensees.

Trademarks

Our trademarks, trade names and service marks referenced herein include Ligand®, Captisol®, Captisol-enabled™, LTP

technology™, OmniAb®, OmniMouse®, OmniRat®, OmniFlic® and OmniChickenTM which are protected under applicable intellectual
property laws and are our property. All other trademarks, trade names and service marks including BaxdelaTM, CarnexivTM, Conbriza®,
Duavee®, Evomela®,Kyprolis®, Promacta®, Revolade®, SUREtechnology Platform™, Viviant®, Vivitra®, Bryxta®, and Exemptia® are
the property of their respective owners. Solely for convenience, trademarks, trade names and service marks referred to in this report may
appear without the ®, ™ or SM symbols, but such references are not intended to indicate, in any way, that we will not assert, to the fullest
extent under applicable law, our rights or the right of the applicable licensor to such trademarks, trade names and service marks. Use or
display by us of other parties’ trademarks, trade dress or products is not intended to and does not imply a relationship with, or endorsement
or sponsorship of, us by the trademark or trade dress owners.

Item 1.

Business

Overview

We are a biopharmaceutical company focused on developing and acquiring technologies that help pharmaceutical companies

discover and develop medicines. Over our more than 30 year history, we have employed research technologies such as nuclear receptor
assays, high throughput computer screening, formulation science, liver targeted pro-drug technologies and antibody discovery technologies
to assist companies in their work toward securing prescription drug approvals. We currently have partnerships and license agreements with
over 110 pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies. Over 200 different programs under license with us are currently in various stages of
commercialization and development. We have contributed novel research and technologies for approved medicines that treat cancer,
osteoporosis, fungal infections and low blood platelets, among others. Our partners have programs currently in clinical development
targeting seizure, coma, cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, muscle wasting, liver disease, and kidney disease, among others. We have
over 1,200 issued patents worldwide.

We have assembled our large portfolio of fully-funded programs either by licensing our own proprietary drug development

programs, licensing our platform technologies such as Captisol or OmniAb to partners for use with their proprietary programs, or acquiring
existing partnered programs from other companies. Fully-funded programs, which we refer to as "shots on goal," are those for which our
partners pay all of the development and commercialization costs. For our internal programs, we generally plan to advance drug candidates
through early-stage drug development or clinical proof-of-concept and then seek partners to continue development and potential
commercialization.

Our business model creates value for stockholders by providing a diversified portfolio of biotech and pharmaceutical product

revenue streams that are supported by an efficient and low corporate cost structure. Our goal is to offer investors an opportunity to
participate in the promise of the biotech industry in a profitable, diversified and lower-risk business than a typical biotech company. Our
business model is based on doing what we do best: drug discovery, early-stage drug development, product reformulation and partnering.
We partner with other pharmaceutical companies to leverage what they do best (late-stage development, regulatory management and
commercialization) to ultimately generate our revenue. We believe that focusing on discovery and early-stage drug development while
benefiting from our partners’ development and commercialization expertise will reduce our internal expenses and allow us to have a larger
number of drug candidates progress to later stages of drug development.

Our revenue consists of three primary elements: royalties from commercialized products, license and milestone payments and sale of

Captisol material. In addition to discovering and developing our own proprietary drugs, we selectively pursue acquisitions to bring in new
assets, pipelines, and technologies to aid in generating additional potential new revenue streams.

2018 and Recent Major Business Highlights

Acquisitions and Other Business Development

•

•

•

•

In October 2018, we acquired Vernalis, a structure-based drug discovery biotechnology company with a broad pipeline of partnered
programs and ongoing collaborations for $43 million in cash. The acquisition of Vernalis provided us with more than eight fully-
funded shots on goal, a 70-person research and development team based in Cambridge, England working on a portfolio of
collaborations that have the potential to create additional shots on goal, a compound library of unpartnered programs for potential
development and out-licensing, and England-based operations that provide a platform to help efficiently pursue investment and
acquisition activities in Europe and the United Kingdom.
In December 2018, we announced the acquisition of economic rights to PTX-022 from Palvella for $10 million in cash. We will
receive a tiered net sales royalty in the mid-to-upper single digits on any net sales of PTX-022, as well as regulatory and financing
milestones. PTX-022 is a novel, orphan-indicated, topical formulation of rapamycin in Phase 2/3 development for the treatment of
pachyonychia congenita, a rare skin disorder with no FDA-approved treatment.
In January 2019, we announced an investment in Dianomi, paying a total of $3 million in exchange for a tiered royalty of 2%-3%
based on net sales for the first five products to be approved using Dianomi’s patented MCM technology and a loan convertible into $1
million of equity at Dianomi’s next qualified financing.
In March 2018, we announced the signing of a license agreement granting Roivant exclusive global rights to develop and
commercialize LGD-6972 (now named RVT-1502), the GRA which we developed through a successful Phase 2 clinical trial. Under
the terms of the agreement, we received a $20 million upfront license fee, and are eligible to receive up to an additional $528.8
million of milestone payments and tiered royalties ranging from low double digits to the mid-teens, with the top tier applying to
annual net sales above $3 billion. Roivant is responsible for all costs related to the program.

1

• We expanded the distribution capacity on Captisol. In addition to shipping commercial and clinical material out of our contract
manufacturing sites in both Portugal and Ireland last year, we also established a new distribution capability in Ireland in 2018.

Selected Late-Stage Clinical Developments

•

•

•

Retrophin  announced  that  the  first  patient  was  dosed  in  a  global,  pivotal  Phase  3  clinical  trial  evaluating  the  long-term
nephroprotective potential of sparsentan for the treatment of IgA nephropathy.
Retrophin presented new data examining the long-term effects of sparsentan in FSGS at the American Society of Nephrology Kidney
Week  2018,  and  announced  that  the  Journal  of  the  American  Society  of  Nephrology  published  online  the  positive  results  from
Retrophin’s Phase 2 DUET study of sparsentan for the treatment of FSGS.
Retrophin announced that the United States Patent and Trademark Office issued a new patent providing coverage for the use of
sparsentan in the treatment of IgAN and broadening the existing coverage to include all doses of sparsentan between 200 and 800
mg/day. The patent has a stated expiration date of March 30, 2030.

• Melinta Therapeutics announced positive topline results from its Phase 3 trial of Baxdela™ for the treatment of adult patients with

community-acquired bacterial pneumonia.

• Viking presented positive results from a 12-week Phase 2 study of VK2809 in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in an oral

late-breaker presentation at the AASLD’s annual meeting in San Francisco, CA.

• Viking presented positive results from its Phase 2 study of VK5211 in patients recovering from hip fracture at the American Society

for Bone and Mineral Research 2018 annual meeting.

• Aldeyra announced enrollment of the first patient in a Phase 3 clinical trial of topical ocular reproxalap for the treatment of allergic

conjunctivitis.

• Aldeyra also announced that the last patient has been dosed in a Phase 2b clinical trial of topical ocular reproxalap in dry eye disease.
•

Sermonix announced FDA acceptance of its IND application and the initiation of a 100-patient Phase 2 trial of oral lasofoxifene for
the treatment of metastatic breast cancer. Sermonix also announced the presentation of three posters for oral lasofoxifene in metastatic
breast cancer at the 2018 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium.

• Verona announced enrollment of the last patient in its Phase 2 clinical trial evaluating the effect of nebulized ensifentrine (RPL554) as

an add-on to dual therapy using long-acting anti-muscarinic / long-acting beta2-agonists and triple therapy in the maintenance
treatment of patients with moderate to severe COPD.

• Verona announced initiation of a Phase 2 clinical trial to evaluate the pharmacokinetic profile, efficacy and safety of a dry powder

inhaler formulation of ensifentrine in patients with moderate-to-severe COPD.

• Merrimack announced a poster presentation related to seribantumab at the 2018 ASCO Annual Meeting.
• Marinus announced positive results from its Phase 2 clinical trial evaluating ganaxolone IV in women with postpartum depression.
• Opthea reported that the last patient was enrolled in its ongoing Phase 2b trial of OPT-302 for wet age-related macular degeneration.

Selected Regulatory Developments

• Novartis announced that the FDA expanded the label for Promacta (eltrombopag) to include first-line treatment for adults and

pediatric patients two years and older with SAA in combination with standard immunosuppressive therapy.

• Novartis announced results of a retrospective, real-world evidence study in patients with ITP treated with Promacta/Revolade

(eltrombopag), compared with other second-line therapies, demonstrating that patients experienced better clinical outcomes with
Promacta in terms of fewer bleeding episodes.

• On October 1, 2018, Amgen announced that the FDA approved the supplemental NDA to expand the prescribing information for

•

Kyprolis to include a once-weekly dosing option in combination with dexamethasone for patients with relapsed or refractory multiple
myeloma.
CASI Pharmaceuticals announced that it received National Medical Products Administration (formerly, the China FDA) approval of
EVOMELA for use as a high-dose conditioning treatment prior to hematopoietic progenitor (stem) cell transplantation in patients with
multiple myeloma, and the palliative treatment of patients with multiple myeloma for whom oral therapy is not appropriate.

• Daiichi Sankyo announced receipt of marketing approval in Japan for MINNEBRO (esaxerenone) for the treatment of hypertension.
•

SAGE announced that the FDA Psychopharmacologic Drugs Advisory Committee and Drug Safety and Risk Management Advisory
Committee  jointly  voted  that  data  support  the  favorable  benefit-risk  profile  of  Zulresso  injection  for  the  treatment  of  postpartum
depression.  SAGE  also  announced  on  November  20,  2018  that  the  PDUFA  action  date  for  the  NDA  for  ZULRESSO  is  March  19,
2019.

2

Disclosed Licensing Deals Entered into or Expanded

OmniAb Technology

• We announced receipt of a $47 million payment as a result of signing an amendment related to our OmniAb platform license

agreement with WuXi. Under the amended agreement, we will continue to be eligible to earn royalties at the same rate and terms as
the previous agreement and the predefined contract payments have been eliminated. With this new business relationship, WuXi
believes it will be able to increase the number of OmniAb antibodies it discovers for its clients in China and around the world.
• Worldwide license agreements with venBio Partners, Ferring Pharmaceuticals and Glenmark Pharmaceuticals to use the OmniAb
platform technologies to discover fully human antibodies. The agreement with venBio permits the venture capital firm’s portfolio
companies to enter into worldwide OmniAb platform agreements under previously agreed-upon terms. We are eligible to receive
annual access payments, milestone payments and royalties on future net sales of any antibodies discovered under these licenses.
• We entered into OmniChicken license expansions with FivePrime and Amgen, allowing the companies to use the OmniChicken

technology.

• Worldwide license agreement with iMBP to use the OmniAb platform technologies to discover fully human antibodies. iMBP is an
early-stage company with experienced leadership and proprietary research based on functional preservation of key natural enzymes
responsible for lipid metabolism. Their discovery-stage programs target obesity and related diseases, with a primary focus on
hyperlipidemia. We are eligible to receive a tiered royalty on future sales of up to 6%. As part of the agreement, we will fund and
facilitate select early antibody discovery activities, and in return will receive an equity ownership position in iMBP.

• OmniAb platform license agreement with Fred Hutch to use the OmniAb rodent platform technologies to discover fully human

•

antibodies. We are eligible to receive a defined share of revenue received by Fred Hutch from companies that commercialize products
incorporating any such OmniAb-derived antibody.
Research and development agreement with Janssen Pharmaceuticals for the development by Ligand of a HCO version of
OmniChicken, for which we are eligible to earn defined milestone payments. Upon completion of the project, we will be able to make
the HCO OmniChicken available to other commercial partners.

Captisol Technology

•

Captisol clinical use license agreements with Sunshine Lake Pharmaceuticals, Merck KGaA and reVision Therapeutics.

Additional Pipeline and Partner Developments

•

•

•

CStone announced two pivotal Phase 2 studies exploring the efficacy and safety of OmniAb-derived CS1001 in patients with natural
killer cell/T-cell lymphoma and classical Hodgkin's lymphoma have been initiated and have each enrolled and dosed the first patient.
CStone announced a collaboration agreement with Blueprint Medicines to initiate a proof-of-concept clinical trial in China evaluating
BLU-554 in combination with OmniAb-derived CS1001.
CStone also announced the completion of a $260 million series B financing that will primarily fund clinical development of OmniAb-
derived CS1001.

• Aptevo announced that the first patient was dosed in a Phase 1/1b clinical trial of APVO436, a novel anti-CD123 by anti-CD3
bispecific antibody, which is being developed for the treatment of patients with acute myeloid leukemia and high-grade
myelodysplastic syndrome.

• Aptevo presented new data for APVO436 at the AACR 2018 Annual Meeting.
•

Corvus announced updated clinical and biomarker data from its ongoing Phase 1/1b study of CPI-444 in patients with treatment-
refractory renal cell carcinoma, which demonstrated an overall survival of 88% at more than 20 months follow-up with CPI-444
administered in combination with atezolizumab.
Corvus announced the publication of results of preclinical studies of CPI-444 demonstrating that it induces dose-dependent antitumor
responses as a monotherapy and in combination with anti-PD-1, anti-PD-L1 and anti-CTLA-4 therapies.

•

• On December 3, 2018, Amgen announced the first clinical results from a study evaluating investigational novel BiTE immunotherapy
AMG 330. In a Phase 1 dose-escalation study, AMG 330, which targets CD33, provided early evidence of tolerability and anti-tumor
activity in patients with relapsed and/or refractory multiple myeloma and relapsed or refractory acute myeloid leukemia.
Seelos closed a reverse merger with Apricus Biosciences and is now publicly traded on the Nasdaq Capital Market under the trading
symbol “SEEL”. In conjunction with the reverse merger transaction, Seelos raised gross proceeds of $18 million in a private financing.

•

3

 
• OmniAb-derived RVT-1401 (previously HL 161) have formed the foundation of a new company called Immunovant during 2018.
• Nucorion Pharmaceuticals presented preclinical data for its novel liver-targeting prodrug technology program, CO1010,  for the

•

treatment of hepatitis B at the European Association for the Study of the Liver’s International Liver Congress.
Syros Pharmaceuticals announced new preclinical data on SY-1365, its first-in-class selective CDK7 inhibitor, showing that it inhibits
tumor cell growth in HR-positive breast cancer cell lines that are resistant to treatment with CDK4/6 inhibitors and that it has
synergistic activity in combination with fulvestrant in these treatment-resistant cells.

• OmniAb partner Arcus announced that abstracts relating to its portfolio were presented at the Society for Immunotherapy of Cancer

Annual Meeting.

• Arcus announced that the FDA cleared the IND application for OmniAb-derived AB122 and the company presented a poster on

AB122 at the AACR 2018 Annual Meeting.

• Arcus also announced a collaboration agreement with Infinity Pharmaceuticals to evaluate AB122 with IPI549, an immuno-oncology

candidate that selectively inhibits PI3K-gamma.

• MEI Pharma announced a poster presentation related to ME-344 at the 2018 ASCO Annual Meeting.

Internal Pipeline Highlights

• We have continued to make progress on our Captisol-enabled (CE) iohexol program, including deepening the preclinical dataset

significantly, which is designed to further illustrate the differentiating features of our product. We are in final preparations for making
our Clinical Trial Application submission to the health authorities in Canada where our first in-human trial will be run this year. We've
manufactured our clinical batches of CE-iohexol and are expecting to initiate the clinical trial this quarter and we plan to have Phase 1
bioavailability data on CE-iohexol in the third quarter of 2019.

• We now have five internal antibody-related programs that we initiated in 2018. The programs are focused on targets for which

biology is known, centered in the oncology and inflammation therapy areas.

Technologies

A variety of technology platforms that enable elements of drug discovery or development form the basis of our portfolio of fully-

funded shots on goal. Platform technologies or individual drugs discovered by Ligand are related to a broad estate of intellectual property
that includes over 1,200 patents issued worldwide.

OmniAb Technologies

Our OmniAb technology includes our OmniRat, OmniMouse, OmniFlic and OmniChicken technology platforms for use in

discovering fully human antibodies. The OmniRat, OmniMouse, and OmniFlic platforms consist of genetically-engineered transgenic
animals that produce a broadly diversified repertoire of antibodies and enable novel fully-human antibody drug discovery and development
by our OmniAb partners. Fully-human OmniAb antibodies provide advantages to our partners in that fully-human antibodies have reduced
immunogenicity, streamlined development timelines and costs, and accelerated novel antibody discovery. The OmniChicken platform
consists of genetically-engineered transgenic chickens which enable the generation of novel antibodies against targets that are not
immunogenic in mammals like mice and rats. Currently, more than 40 partners are utilizing OmniAb animals in their drug discovery and
development efforts. We acquired these technologies through the acquisition of OMT in January 2016 and Crystal in October 2017.

Vernalis Design Platform (VDP)

The VDP technology leverages our leadership in structure-guided drug discovery in which protein structure, drug fragment screening

and modeling are integrated with medicinal chemistry to enable the rapid discovery of novel drugs. The VDP approach establishes
structural information via x-ray crystallography and NMR methods and develops reliable assay systems to test biophysical, functional and
cellular properties. The VDP has proven success with highly-challenging pharmaceutical targets and has generated a broad portfolio, with
over 5,000 novel drug/target complexes determined and over 400 granted and pending patents. We acquired the VDP technology through
our acquisition of Vernalis in October of 2018, and maintain state-of-the-art laboratories in Cambridge, UK.

Captisol Technology

Captisol is our patented, uniquely-modified cyclodextrin that is specifically designed to maximize safety, while improving the
solubility, stability and bioavailability of APIs. Captisol can enable faster and more efficient development paths for our partners, given its
known regulatory acceptance. We maintain both Type IV and Type V DMFs with the FDA. These DMFs contain manufacturing and safety
information relating to Captisol that our licensees can reference when developing

4

Captisol-enabled drugs. We also filed a DMF in Japan in 2015. Captisol-enabled drugs are marketed in more than 60 countries, and over 40
partners have Captisol-enabled drugs in development.

LTP Technology Platform

The LTP Technology platform is a novel prodrug technology designed to selectively deliver a broad range of pharmaceutical agents

to the liver. A prodrug is a biologically inactive compound that can be metabolized in the body to produce an active drug. The LTP
Technology works by chemically modifying biologically active molecules into an inactive prodrug, which will be administered to a patient
and later activated by specific enzymes in the liver. The technology can be used to improve the safety and/or activity of existing drugs,
develop new agents to treat certain liver-related diseases, and treat diseases caused by imbalances of circulating molecules that are
controlled by the liver. The technology is especially applicable to metabolic and cardiovascular indications, among others. Currently
3 programs are utilizing the LTP Technology or related platform(s).

SUREtechnology Platform (owned by Selexis)

We acquired economic rights to over 30 SUREtechnology Platform programs from Selexis in two separate transactions in 2013 and

2015, granting us rights to downstream economics on novel biologics and biosimilars programs. The SUREtechnology Platform, developed
and owned by Selexis, is a novel technology that improves the way that cells are utilized in the development and manufacturing of
recombinant proteins and drugs. The technology is based on novel DNA-based elements that control the dynamic organization of
chromatin within mammalian cells and allow for higher and more stable expression of recombinant proteins. The technology creates
advantages over traditional approaches including accelerated development and manufacturing times, high yields and increased compound
stability.

5

Partners and Licensees

We currently have partnerships and license agreements with over 110 pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies. In addition to

the table below, we also have more than 10 undisclosed partners and licensees.

Ticker
ABBV 
AZN 
BAX 

Big Pharma
AbbVie 
AstraZeneca 
Baxter 
Boehringer Ingelheim  Private 
BMS 
Daiichi Sankyo 
Eli Lilly 
Eisai 
GSK 
Janssen 
Merck 
Merck KGaA 
Novartis 
Ono 
Otsuka 
Pfizer 
Sanofi 
Takeda 

BMY 
DSKY 
LLY 
4523 
GSK 
JNJ 
MRK 
MRK 
NVS 
4528 
4768 
PFE 
SNY 
4502 

Specialty Pharma
Achaogen 
Aytu Bioscience 
Aziyo 
Beloteca 
CorMatrix 
CTI Biopharma 
Cuda 
Ferring 
Gloria 
Lundbeck 
Sedor 
Sermonix 
Shire 
Spectrum 
Teijin 
Vireo Health 
Upsher-Smith 

Ticker
AKAO 
AYTU 
Private 
Private 
Private 
CTIC 
Private 
Private 
2437 
LUN 
Private 
Private 
SHPG 
SPPI 
TINLF 
Private 
Private 

Generics 
Alvogen 
Avion 
BioCad 
Coherus 
Gedeon Richter 
Zydus Cadila 

Ticker 
Private 
Private 
Private 
CHRS 
GEDSF 
CADILAHC 

Biotech
ABBA 
AiCuris 
Aldeyra 
Amgen 
Arcus 
ARMO 
Asahi Kasei 
Azure 
bluebird bio 
Cantex 
Celgene 
Corvus 
C-Stone 
CURx 
Aptevo 
Exelixis 
Five Prime 
F-Star 
Genmab 
Genagon 
Genekey Biotech 
Glenmark 
Gilead Sciences 
HanAll 
Harbour 
iMetabolic 

Ticker
Private 
Private 
ALDX 
AMGN 
RCUS 
Private 
3407 
Private 
BLUE 
Private 
CELG 
CRVS 
2616.HK 
Private 
APVO 
EXEL 
FRPX 
Private 
GEN 
Private 
Private 
GLENMARK 
GILD 
9420 
Private 
Private 

Biotech, continued 
Immunovant 
J-Pharma 
Marinus 
MEI 
Melinta 
Menarini 
Meridian Labs 
Metavant 
Merrimack 
Novogen 
Nucorion 
Opthea 
Outlook 
Palvella 
Phoenix Tissue 
Precision Biologics 
Retrophin 
Revision Therapeutics 
SAGE 
Seattle Genetics 
Seelos 
Servier 
Sunshine Lake 
Symphogen 
Teneobio 
TG Therapeutics 
Tizona 
Vaxxas 
Vega 
VentiRx 
Verona 
Vertex 
Viking 
Xi'an Xintong 
XTL Bio 
WuXi 

Ticker 
Private 
Private 
MRNS 
MEIP 
MLNT 
Private 
Private 
Private 
MACK 
NVGN 
Private 
OPT 
OTLK 
Private 
Private 
Private 
RTRX 
Private 
SAGE 
SGEN 
SEEL 
Private 
Private 
Private 
Private 
TGTX 
Private 
Private 
Private 
Private 
VRNA 
VRTX 
VKTX 
Private 
XTLB 
Private 

6

Portfolio

We have a large portfolio of current and future potential revenue-generating programs, including over 200 fully-funded by our

partners. In addition to the table below, we also have more than 60 undisclosed programs.

Blood Disorders

Novartis

Promacta

Approved

Cardiovascular

CNS

Baxter
Exelixis/Daiichi-Sankyo

Nexterone
Minnebro

Lundbeck
Menarini

Carnexiv
Frovatriptan

Cancer

Amgen
Spectrum

Kyprolis
Evomela

Zydus Cadila
Zydus Cadila

Vivitra
Bryxta

Medical Device/Cardiology

Aziyo Base
Business

Aziyo

Infectious Disease

Alvogen

Voriconazole

Hikma
Merck

Voriconazole
Noxafil-IV

Aytu
Melinta
Par Pharmaceuticals
Pfizer

Tuzistra
Baxdela
Posaconazole
Vfend-IV

Inflammatory/Metabolic

Biocad
Pfizer
Pfizer
Zydus Cadila

Interferon beta-1a
Viviant/Conbriza
Duavee
Exemptia

Phase 3 or Regulatory Submission Stage

Blood Disorders

Severe and Rare

Inflammatory/Metabolic

Biocad
Bioverativ

BCD-066
Sutimlimab

Retrophin

Sparsentan

Coherus

CHS-0214

Oncobiologics
Oncobiologics

ONS-3010
ONS-1045

Other / Undisclosed

Aldeyra Therapeutics

Reproxalap

Blood Disorders

Novartis

KLM465

C-Stone

CS1001

Cantex
CTI Biopharma
Sermonix

CX-01
Tosedostat
Lasofoxifene

Cancer

Takeda

Pevonedistat

CNS

SAGE
Sedor
Sunshine Lake

Brexanolone
CE-Fosphenytoin
Vilazodone

Phase 2

Infectious Disease

Gilead
Xi'an Xintong

GS-5734
Pradefovir

CNS

CurX
Marinus Pharma
Seelos

IV Topiramate
Ganaxalone IV
Aplindore

Cancer

Eli Lilly

Eli Lilly
Gloria

Merestinib

Prexasertib
GLS010

J-Pharma
Precision
Biologics
VentiRx Pharma

JPH-203

NPC-1C
VTX-2337

Cardiovascular

Other / Undisclosed

Severe and Rare

Cardioxyl / BMS

BMS986231

Opthea Ltd

OPT-302

Palvella
XTL Bio

PTX-022
hCDR1

Inflammatory and Metabolic

Azure
Metavant
Novartis
Sedor

Lasofoxifene
RT-1502
ECF843
CE-Budesonide

Verona
Viking
Viking
Viking

Ensifentrine
VK5211
VK2809/VK0214
VK0612

7

 
 
 
Phase 1

Cancer

Amgen
Aptevo
Arcus
Corvus
F-Star
Gedeon Richter

AMG-330
APVO436
AB122
CPI-444
FS-102
Bevacizumab

IBC Generium
Janssen
MEI Pharma
Meridian
Novartis
Novartis

Deplera
JNJ64007957
ME-344
ML-061
MIK-665
BCL-201

Servier
Symphogen
Symphogen
Upsher-Smith
VentiRx Pharma
Xi'an Xintong

S55746/S64315
SYM022
SYM023
CXCR4
VTX-1463
MB07133

Infectious Disease

Severe and Rare

Other / Undisclosed

Vaxxas

Nanopatch

IBC Generium
Takeda

GNR-008
TAK-925

Phoenix Tissue

PTR-01

Inflammatory and Metabolic

Gedeon Richter
Genekey Biotech

RGB-03
PCSK-9

HanAll/Harbour
Immunovant
Takeda

HL161
RVT-1401
TAK-020

Pre-Clinical

Other / Undisclosed

ABBA
AbbVie
Achaogen
Amgen
ARMO Biosciences
Avion
Beloteca
Boehringer Ingelheim
Celgene
Celgene
Covagen
Five Prime

OmniAb
OmniAb
OmniAb
OmniAb
OmniAb
CE programs
CE-Ziprasidone
OmniAb
OmniAb
Vipadenant
OmniAb
OmniAb

Electra
F-Star
Ferring
Fred Hutchinson
Genmab
Gilead
Glenmark
HanAll
iMetabolic
Janssen
KSQ Therapeutics
Merck KGaA

OmniAb
OmniAb
OmniAb
OmniAb
OmniAb
CE-program
OmniAb
OmniAb
OmniAb
OmniAb
OmniAb
OmniAb

Ono Pharmaceuticals
Pfizer
Revision Therapeutics
Seattle Genetics
Symphogen
Teneobio
Teva
Tizona
Vega
VenBio
Wuxi

OmniAb
OmniAb
CvZ001
OmniAb
OmniAb
OmniAb
OmniAb
OmniAb
OmniAb
OmniAb
OmniAb

Sedor
Seelos

CE-Meloxicam
SLS-008

Infectious Disease

Inflammatory and Metabolic
SLS-010
DGAT-1 Inhibitor

Seelos
Viking

CNS

Vireo Health

CE-Cannabinoids

Nucorion
Nucorion

NUC-101
NUC-202

Cuda
CURx Pharma

Cudafol
IV Lamotrigine

SAGE
Seelos

SAGE-689
SLS-012

Cancer

Blood Disorders

Medical Device/Cardiology

Nucorion
Oncobiologics
Oncobiologics
TG Therapeutics

NUC-404
Rituximab
ONS-1050
IRAK4

Viking

EPOR Agonist

CorMatrix

CorMatrix Pipeline

8

Selected Commercial Programs

We have multiple programs under license with other companies that have products that are already being commercialized. The
following programs represent components of our current portfolio of revenue-generating assets and potential for near-term growth in
royalty and other revenue. For information about the royalties owed to us for these programs, see “Royalties” later in this business section.

Promacta (Novartis)

We are party to a license agreement with Novartis related to Promacta, which is an oral medicine that increases the number of
platelets in the blood. Platelets are one of the three components of blood and facilitate clotting in the blood. Individuals with low platelets
can be at significant risk of bleeding or death. Because of the importance of having a sufficient number of platelets, Promacta has broad
potential applicability to a number of medical situations where low platelets exist.

Promacta is currently approved for four indications: (1) the treatment of thrombocytopenia in adult and pediatric patients 1 year and

older with ITP who have had an insufficient response to corticosteroids, immunoglobulins or splenectomy; (2) thrombocytopenia in
patients with chronic hepatitis C to allow the initiation and maintenance of interferon-based therapy; (3) in combination with standard
immunosuppressive therapy for the first-line treatment of adult and pediatric patients 2 years and older with SAA; and (4) patients with
SAA who have had an insufficient response to immunosuppressive therapy. Promacta was initially approved in 2008, and the product has
been generating royalty revenue for Ligand since 2009. Promacta is known as Revolade in the EU and other non-US markets.

Novartis has been and continues to pursue globalization of the brand and currently markets Promacta in multiple countries for the

approved indications. Specifically, Promacta is currently approved for ITP in more than 100 countries, for the Hepatitis C-related
indication in more than 50 countries, and for post-immunosuppressive therapy SAA indication in more than 45 counties. Approval of
Promacta in the U.S. for the first-line treatment of SAA was obtained in November of 2018.

Beyond the currently-approved indications, Novartis has also disclosed that

is performing or supporting development activities to expand the brand into new
indications, including as a counter measure for the hematopoietic effects of acute
radiation syndrome (H-ARS), and has been granted FDA Breakthrough Therapy
designation. As of January 2019, there are 46 open clinical trials related to Promacta
(listed as recruiting or open, and not yet recruiting) on the clinicaltrials.gov website.

4.7% 
6.6% 
7.5% 
9.4% 
9.3% 
We are entitled to receive royalties related to Promacta during the life of the relevant patents or following patent expiry, at a
reduced rate for ten years from the first commercial sale, whichever is longer, on a country-by-country basis. Novartis has listed a patent
in the FDA’s Orange Book for Promacta with an expiration date in 2028, and absent early termination for bankruptcy or material breach,
the term of the agreement expires upon expiration of the obligation to pay royalties. There are no remaining milestones to be paid under
the agreement.

< $100 million
$100 to $200 million
$200 to $400 million
$400 million to $1.5 billion
>$1.5 billion

Promacta (Novartis)

9

 
 
 
 
 
Kyprolis (Amgen)

Ligand supplies Captisol to Amgen for use with Kyprolis, and granted Amgen an exclusive product-specific license under our patent

rights with respect to Captisol. Kyprolis is formulated with Ligand’s Captisol technology and is approved in the United States for the
following:

•

In combination with dexamethasone or combination with lenalidomide plus dexamethasone for the treatment of patients with
relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma who have received one to three lines of therapy.

• As a single agent for the treatment of patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma who have received one or more lines of

therapy.

Kyprolis is also approved in multiple countries outside the U.S. and Amgen continues to

invest significantly in Kyprolis to further expand its label and geography. Amgen’s obligation
to pay royalties does not expire until four years after the expiration of the last-to-expire patent
covering Captisol. Our patents and applications relating to the Captisol component of Kyprolis
are not expected to expire until 2033.

Kyprolis (Amgen)

< $250 million
$250 to $500 million
$500 to $750 million
>$750 million

1.5% 
2.0% 
2.5% 
3.0% 

Our agreement with Amgen may be terminated by either party in the event of material breach or bankruptcy, or unilaterally by
Amgen with prior written notice, subject to certain surviving obligations. Absent early termination, the agreement will terminate upon
expiration of the obligation to pay royalties. Under this agreement, we are entitled to receive remaining milestones of up to $1 million,
revenue from clinical and commercial Captisol material sales and royalties on annual net sales of Kyprolis.

Evomela (Spectrum and CASI)

Ligand supplies Captisol to Spectrum for use with Evomela, which is a Captisol-enabled melphalan IV formulation. The FDA

approved Evomela for use in two indications:

• A high-dose conditioning treatment prior to ASCT in patients with multiple myeloma. 
•

For the palliative treatment of patients with multiple myeloma for whom oral therapy is not appropriate .

Evomela has been granted Orphan Designation by the FDA for use as a high-dose conditioning regimen for patients with multiple

myeloma undergoing ASCT. The Evomela formulation avoids the use of propylene glycol, which has been reported to cause renal and
cardiac side-effects that limit the ability to deliver higher quantities of therapeutic compounds. The use of the Captisol technology to
reformulate melphalan is anticipated to allow for longer administration durations and slower infusion rates, potentially enabling clinicians
to safely achieve a higher dose intensity of pre-transplant chemotherapy.

Under the terms of the license agreement, we granted an exclusive license to Spectrum under our patent rights to Captisol relating to

the product. We are eligible to receive over $50 million in potential milestone payments under this agreement and royalties on global net
sales of the Captisol-enabled melphalan product. Spectrum’s obligation to pay royalties will expire at the end of the life of the relevant
patents or when a competing product is launched, whichever is earlier, but in no event within ten years of the commercial launch. Our
patents and applications relating to the Captisol component of melphalan are not expected to expire until 2033. Absent early termination,
the agreement will terminate upon expiration of the obligation to pay royalties. The agreement may be terminated by either party for an
uncured material breach or unilaterally by Spectrum by prior written notice.

Spectrum sub-licensed Evomela rights for Greater China to CASI in 2014. In December 2018, CASI announced China marketing

approval of Evomela and a plan to launch the drug in China in 2019.

On January 17, 2019, Spectrum announced that they entered into a definitive agreement to sell its portfolio of seven FDA-approved

hematology/oncology products including Evomela to Arotech Biopharma L.L.C..

Baxdela IV (Melinta)

Melinta’s Baxdela IV is a Captisol-enabled delafloxacin-IV that was approved by the FDA in June 2017 for the treatment of acute

bacterial skin and skin structure infections. Delafloxacin is a novel hospital-focused fluoroquinolone antibiotic with activity against a
variety of disease-causing bacteria-gram-positives, gram-negatives, atypicals and anaerobes, including quinolone-resistant MRSA. Under
the terms of the agreement, we may be entitled to regulatory milestones, as well as a royalty on potential future sales by Melinta, and
revenue from Captisol material sales.

10

 
 
 
 
Nexterone (Baxter)

We have a license agreement with Baxter, related to Baxter's Nexterone, a Captisol-enabled formulation of amiodarone, which is
marketed in the United States and Canada. We supply Captisol to Baxter for use in accordance with the terms of the license agreement
under a separate supply agreement. Under the terms of the license agreement we will continue to earn milestone payments, royalties, and
revenue from Captisol material sales. We are entitled to earn royalties on sales of Nexterone through early 2033.

Noxafil-IV (Merck)

We have a supply agreement with Merck related to Merck’s NOXAFIL-IV, a Captisol-enabled formulation of posaconazole for IV
use. NOXAFIL-IV is marketed in the United States, EU and Canada. We receive our commercial compensation for this program through
the sale of Captisol, and we do not receive a royalty on this program.

Duavee or Duavive (bazedoxifene/conjugated estrogens) and Viviant/Conbriza (Pfizer)

Pfizer is marketing bazedoxifene under the brand names Viviant  and Conbriza in various territories for the treatment of

postmenopausal osteoporosis. Pfizer is responsible for the marketing of bazedoxifene, a synthetic drug specifically designed to reduce the
risk of osteoporotic fractures while also protecting uterine tissue. Pfizer has combined bazedoxifene with the active ingredient in Premarin
to create a combination therapy for the treatment of post-menopausal symptoms in women. Pfizer is marketing the combination treatment
under the brand names Duavee and Duavive in various territories. Net royalties on annual net sales of Viviant/Conbriza and
Duavee/Duavive are each payable to us through the life of the relevant patents or ten years from the first commercial sale, whichever is
longer, on a country by country basis.

Aziyo Portfolio (Aziyo)

We receive a share of revenue from the currently marketed Aziyo portfolio of commercial pericardial repair and

CanGaroo® Envelope ECM products. In addition, Ligand has the potential to receive a share of revenue and potential milestones from the
currently marketed CanGaroo® ECM Envelope for cardiac implantable electronic devices. Aziyo’s products are medical devices that are
designed to permit the development and regrowth of human tissue.

Exemptia, Vivitra and Bryxta (Zydus Cadila)

Zydus Cadila’s Exemptia (adalimumab biosimilar) is marketed in India for autoimmune diseases. Zydus Cadila uses the Selexis

technology platform for Exemptia. We are entitled to earn royalties on sales by Zydus Cadila for ten years following the first commercial
sale.

Zydus Cadila’s Vivitra (trastuzumab biosimilar) is marketed in India for breast cancer. Zydus Cadila uses the Selexis technology

platform for Vivitra. We are entitled to earn royalties on sales by Zydus Cadila for ten years following the first commercial sale.

Zydus Cadila’s Bryxta (bevacizumab biosimilar) is marketed in India for non-small cell lung cancer. Zydus Cadila uses the Selexis

technology platform for Bryxta. We are entitled to earn royalties on sales by Zydus Cadila for ten years following the first commercial sale.

Minnebro (Exelixis)

Daiichi Sankyo announced on January 8, 2019 the receipt of marketing approval in Japan for MINNEBRO Tablets (esaxerenone) for

the treatment of hypertension. Our partner, Exelixis, entered into a collaboration agreement with Daiichi Sankyo for the development of
esaxerenone, a mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist. Under the terms of the agreement with Exelixis, we are entitled to receive a royalty
on future sales.

Summary of Selected Development Stage Programs

We have multiple fully-funded partnered programs that are either in or nearing the regulatory approval process, or given the area of
research or value of the license terms we consider particularly noteworthy. We are eligible to receive milestone payments and royalties on
these programs. This list does not include all of our partnered programs. For information about the royalties owed to Ligand for these
programs, see “Royalties” later in this business section. In the case of Captisol-related programs, we are also eligible to receive revenue for
the sale of Captisol material supply.

11

Zulresso-SAGE-547 (SAGE)

Our partner, SAGE, is developing novel medicines to treat life altering central nervous system disorders. SAGE filed an NDA with
the FDA in 2018, seeking approval to market and sell Zulresso for the treatment of postpartum depression, or PPD. The NDA is currently
under FDA review with a PDUFA date of March 19, 2019. We have the potential to receive milestone payments, royalties and revenue
from Captisol material sales for Captisol-enabled programs. SAGE is responsible for all development costs related to the program.

Sparsentan (Retrophin)

Our partner, Retrophin, is developing sparsentan for orphan indications of severe kidney diseases, and has initiated a global pivotal

Phase 3 clinical trial to enable an NDA filing for sparsentan for the treatment of FSGS. Additionally, Retrophin initiated a global pivotal
Phase 3 clinical trial evaluating the long-term nephroprotective potential of sparsentan for the treatment of IgA nephropathy, a rare,
immune complex mediated chronic glomerular disease. Certain patient groups with severely compromised renal function, including those
with FSGS and IgA nephropathy, exhibit extreme proteinuria resulting in progression to dialysis and a high mortality rate. Sparsentan, with
its unique dual blockade of angiotensin and endothelin receptors, is expected to provide meaningful clinical benefits in mitigating
proteinuria in indications where there are no approved therapies.

Under our license agreement with Retrophin, we are entitled to receive potential net milestones of over $70 million and net royalties

on future worldwide sales by Retrophin. The royalty term is expected to be 10 years following the first commercial sale. Retrophin is
responsible for all development costs related to the program.

Prexasertib- LY2606368 (Eli Lilly)

Our partner, Eli Lilly is conducting Phase 2 clinical trials for prexasertib (Captisol-enabled LY2606368), a checkpoint kinase 1/2, or

Chk 1/2, inhibitor for the treatment of solid tumors. Under the terms of the agreement, we may be entitled to regulatory milestones,
royalties on potential future sales by Eli Lilly and revenue from Captisol material sales.

BMS-986231 (formerly CXL-1427) (BMS)

Our partner, BMS, is conducting Phase 2 clinical trials for a Captisol-enabled second-generation prodrug that chemically breaks
down to produce HNO and an inactive byproduct. HNO is thought to have a dual mode of action, by improving cardiac function and acting
as a vasodilator for treating ADHF. Under the terms of the agreement, we may be entitled to development and regulatory milestones, and
royalties on potential future sales by BMS and revenue from Captisol material sales.

RVT-1502 (formerly LGD-6972) (Metavant)

Our partner, Metavant, an affiliate of Roivant, is developing RVT-1502, a GRA, which we licensed to Roivant in March 2018. In

September 2017, we announced positive results from a Phase 2 clinical study evaluating the efficacy and safety of the compound (formerly
known as LGD-6972), as an adjunct to diet and exercise, in subjects with type 2 diabetes mellitis inadequately controlled on metformin
monotherapy. Roivant formed Metavant to pursue the development of RVT-1502 and other treatments for cardiometabolic diseases. We are
entitled to potential development and regulatory milestones and royalties on potential future sales.

RVT-1401/HL161 (Immunovant, HanAll and Harbour)

Our partner, HanAll has granted Immunovant an exclusive license for the development, manufacture and marketing of RVT-1401

(HL161, an anti-FcRn antibody) for the treatment of pathogenic IgG-mediated autoimmune diseases in the U.S., Canada, Mexico, the EU,
the United Kingdom, Switzerland, Latin America, the Middle East and North Africa. Immunovant is currently conducting a Phase 1 clinical
trial in healthy volunteers with plans to initiate Phase 2 studies in early 2019 in myasthenia gravis and other inflammatory diseases.
Additionally, HanAll and Harbour BioMed, are collaborating to develop HL161 for similar treatment in China and Korea. HanAll retains
the rights to HL161 in Korea and Harbour will control the marketing in China. As part of our agreement with HanAll, we are entitled to
development and regulatory milestones and royalties on potential future sales from HanAll and sublicense revenues from Immunovant and
Harbour based on amounts received by HanAll.

12

TR-Beta - VK2809 and VK0214 (Viking)

Viking is developing VK2809, a novel selective TR-Beta agonist with potential in

multiple indications, including hypercholesterolemia, dyslipidemia and NASH. Viking
announced positive results from its Phase 2 trial for VK2809 in hypercholesterolemia and
fatty liver disease. Viking has also been granted orphan drug status by the FDA for the
development of VK0214 for treatment of X-ALD. Under the terms of the agreement
with Viking, we may be entitled to up to $375 million of development, regulatory and
commercial milestones and tiered royalties on potential future sales. Our TR Beta
programs partnered with Viking are subject to CVR sharing and a portion of the cash
received will be paid out to CVR holders.

TR-Beta - VK2809 and VK0214 (Viking)

< $500 million
$500 to $750 million

>$750 million

3.5% 
5.5% 

7.5% 

SARM - VK5211 (Viking)

Our partner, Viking, is developing VK5211, a novel, potentially best-in-class
SARM for patients recovering from hip-fracture. SARMs retain the beneficial properties
of androgens without undesired side-effects of steroids or other less selective androgens.
Viking announced positive results from its Phase 2 trial in patients who suffered hip
fracture in the fourth quarter of 2017. Under the terms of the agreement with Viking, we
may be entitled to up to $270 million of development, regulatory and commercial
milestones as well as tiered royalties on potential future sales.

SARM - VK5211 (Viking)

< $500 million
$500 to $750 million
>$750 million

7.25% 
8.25% 
9.25% 

Lasofoxifene (Sermonix and Azure)

Lasofoxifene is a selective estrogen receptor modulator for osteoporosis treatment and other diseases, discovered through the
research collaboration between us and Pfizer. Under the terms of the license agreement with Azure, we retained the rights to the oral
formulation of lasofoxifene originally developed by Pfizer.

Our partner, Sermonix has a license for the development of oral lasofoxifene for the United States and additional territories. Under
the terms of the agreement, we are entitled to receive over $45 million in potential regulatory and commercial milestone payments as well
as royalties on future net sales.

Our partner Azure is developing a novel formulation of lasofoxifene targeting an underserved market in women’s health. Under the

terms of our agreement with Azure, we are entitled to receive up to $2.6 million in potential development and regulatory milestones as well
as royalties on future net sales through the later of the life of the relevant patents (currently expected to be at least until 2027) or 10 years
after regulatory approval. Azure may terminate the license agreement at any time upon six months’ prior notice.

Merestinib- LY2801653 (Eli Lilly)

Our partner, Eli Lilly is conducting Phase 2 clinical trials for Captisol-enabled merestinib (formerly known as LY2801653), a c-Met

inhibitor for treatment of cancer. Under the terms of the agreement, we may be entitled to regulatory milestones, royalties on potential
future sales by Eli Lilly and revenue from Captisol material sales.

Pevonedistat - TAK-924 (Millennium/Takeda)

Our partner, Millennium/Takeda is currently conducting Phase 3 trials for the development of pevonedistat for the treatment of
hematological malignancies and solid tumors. Pevonedistat is a Captisol-enabled Nedd8-Activating Enzyme Inhibitor. Under the terms of
the clinical-stage agreement, we may be entitled to development milestones from Millennium/Takeda and revenue from Captisol material
sales.

JNJ64007957 (Janssen)

Our partner, Janssen, is developing JNJ64007957, a BCMAxCD3 bispecific antibody discovered in part with the OmniAb platform
technology. Janssen is currently conducting a Phase I trial for cancer therapy. We are entitled to earn milestones based on the development
of JNJ64007957.

13

 
 
 
 
 
 
AMG-330 (Amgen)

Our licensee, Amgen, is developing AMG 330, a bispecific T-cell engager (BiTE) antibody targeting CD33 and CD3, for use in
humans for a wide variety of therapeutic indications. Under the terms of the agreement, we are entitled to milestones and royalties on future
sales of AMG 330 formulated with Captisol.

Ganaxalone IV (Marinus)

Our partner, Marinus, is conducting Phase 2 clinical trials with Captisol-enabled ganaxolone IV in patients with PPD and refractory

status epilepticus. Marinus has exclusive worldwide rights to Captisol-enabled ganaxolone, a GABAA receptor modulator, for use in
humans. We are entitled to development and regulatory milestones, royalties on potential future sales and revenue from Captisol material
sales.

APVO436 (Aptevo)

Our partner, Aptevo, is currently conducting a Phase 1 trial of APVO436 for the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia. There is a high

unmet medical need for targeted immunotherapies such as APVO436, that can potentially treat patients with relapsed or refractory disease,
or patients who cannot tolerate traditional chemotherapy. Under the terms of the agreement with Aptevo, we are entitled to milestones and
royalties on future sales.

WuXi Partnership

Pursuant to the WuXi Agreement, we have granted WuXi a non-exclusive license to use our OmniRat, OmniMouse and OmniFlic
platforms solely to research, develop and make antibodies, and we have agreed to use commercially reasonable efforts to deliver to WuXi
animals from such platforms on a purchase order basis to support WuXi’s licensing rights under the WuXi Agreement. Further, WuXi has
the right to out-license antibodies it discovers (whether for itself or at the direction of out-licensees) under the WuXi Agreement to out-
licensees worldwide. We are entitled to royalties in the low single digits on net sales of products. Unless earlier terminated, the term of the
WuXi Agreement shall continue indefinitely. Either party may terminate the WuXi Agreement upon specified notice of the other party's
uncured material breach of the WuXi Agreement. In addition, we have the right to terminate the WuXi Agreement if WuXi or one of its
out-licensees challenges the validity of one of our patents covering the platform and WuXi has the right to terminate the WuXi Agreement
for convenience following a specified period after notice of termination.

In addition to other earlier stage programs, the following programs have been licensed pursuant to the WuXi Agreement:

AB122/GLS010 (Arcus and Gloria)

Our partner, WuXi, has outlicensed the rights to certain programs using the OmniAb technology to Arcus and Gloria. Arcus, is

currently conducting a Phase 1 trial to evaluate the safety and tolerability of AB122 in subjects with advanced solid tumors.
Additionally, Gloria, is conducting a Phase 2 trial in China to evaluate the efficacy and safety of GLS-010 injection in the treatment of
recurrent or refractory classical Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Under the terms of our agreement with WuXi, we are entitled to royalties on
potential future sales.

CS1001 (C-Stone)

Our partner, WuXi, has outlicensed the rights to certain programs using the OmniAb technology to C-Stone. C-Stone, is
currently conducting a Phase 2 trial to evaluate the efficacy and safety of CS1001 to treat patients with natural killer cell/T-cell
lymphoma and classical Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Under the terms of our agreement with WuXi, we are entitled to royalties on potential
future sales.

CPI-444 (Corvus)

Our partner, Corvus, is currently conducting a Phase 1b/2 clinical trial in patients with renal cell carcinoma to evaluate CPI-444, an
antagonist of adenosine A2A, in combination with the immunotherapy drug atezolizumab. CPI-444 is also being evaluated in a Phase 1b/2
trial in combination with atezolizumab in patients with non-small cell lung cancer who have failed no more than two prior regimens. Under
the terms of our agreement with Corvus, we are entitled to development and regulatory milestones and tiered royalties on potential future
sales. The aggregate potential milestone payments from Corvus are approximately $220 million for all indications.

14

Ensifentrine – RPL554 (Verona)

Our partner, Verona, is currently conducting a comprehensive Phase 2 clinical trial for the development of ensifentrine as a
maintenance treatment of COPD with nebulized and inhaled formulations. Verona has also completed a positive Phase 2a study evaluating
ensifentrine as a treatment for cystic fibrosis. Under the terms of our agreement with Verona, we are entitled to development and regulatory
milestones, including a £5.0 million payment upon the first approval of any regulatory authority, and royalties on potential future sales.

ECF843 (Novartis)

Novartis is developing ECF843 for the treatment of dry-eye and other ophthalmic indications. ECF843 has been tested in a Phase 2

trial demonstrating the primary endpoint was met. Novartis uses the Selexis technology platform for ECF843. Under the terms of our
agreement with Novartis, we are entitled to development and regulatory milestones and royalties on potential future sales.

Royalties

We have multiple programs under license with other companies that have products that are already being commercialized. In
addition to the table below, we have generally described a typical Captisol and OmniAb royalty arrangement as low- to mid-single digit
royalties. The following table represents substantially all of the disclosed information about our royalty arrangements:

Royalty Table

Ligand Licenses With Tiered Royalties* 
Licensee 
Program 
Pfizer 
Duavee 
Pfizer 
Viviant/Conbriza 
CURx 
CE-Lamotrigine 
CURx 
CE-Topiramate 
Sedor 
CE-Budesonide 
Sedor 
CE-Meloxicam 
TG Therapeutics 
IRAK4 
Sermonix 
Lasofoxifene 
Viking 
FBPase Inhibitor (VK0612) 
Viking 
SARM (VK5211) 
Viking 
TR Beta (VK2809 and VK0214) 
Viking 
Oral EPO 
Viking 
DGAT-1 
Nucorion 
Various 
Seelos 
Various 
iMetabolic 
OmniAb-iMetabolic 
OmniAb-Genagon 
Genagon 
Mineral Coated Microparticle technology  Dianomi 
Palvella 
PTX-022 
Metavant 
RVT-1502 
Corvus 
CPI-444 
Verona 
Ensifentrine (RPL554) 

Royalty Rate 
0.5% - 2.5% 
0.5% - 2.5% 
4.0% - 7.0% 
6.0% - 7.5% 
8.0% - 10.0% 
8.0% - 10.0% 
6.0% - 9.5% 
6.0% - 10.0% 
7.5% - 9.5% 
7.25% - 9.25% 
3.5% - 7.5% 
4.5% - 8.5% 
3.0% - 7.0% 
4.0% - 9.0% 
4.0% - 10.0% 
<6% 
4.0% - 6.0% 
2.0% - 3.0% 
5.0% - 9.8% 
Low double digit to mid-teen royalty 
Mid single digit to low-teen royalty 
Low to mid-single digit royalty 

15

Ligand Licenses With Fixed Royalties*

Program
Evomela
Baxdela
Brexalalone (SAGE-547)
Sparsentan
CE-Fosphenytoin
Pradefovir
MB07133
KLM465
Topical lasofoxifene
MM-121
MM-141
ME-143
ME-344
Reproxalap
PCSK-9
CS1001
Various
4-1BB
AB122
OmniAb-KSQ Therapeutics

Licensee
Spectrum Pharma
Melinta
SAGE
Retrophin
Sedor
Xi'an Xintong
Xi'an Xintong
Novartis
Azure Biotech
Merrimack Pharma
Merrimack Pharma
MEI Pharma
MEI Pharma
Aldeyra Therapeutics
Genekey
C-Stone
Gloria
Zhilkang Hongyi
Arcus
KSQ Therapeutics

Royalty Rate
20% 
2.5% 
3% 
9% 
11% 
9% 
6% 
14.5% (6.5% in year one) 
5% 
<1.0% 
<1.0% 
Low single digit royalty 
Low single digit royalty 
Low single digit royalty 
Low single digit royalty 
Low single digit royalty 
Low single digit royalty 
Low single digit royalty 
Low single digit royalty 
Single digit royalty 

*Royalty rates are shown net of sublicense payments. Royalty tier references for specific rates notated in the table are for up to and including the dollar
amount referenced. Higher tiers are only applicable for the dollar ranges specified in the table.

Contract Payments (Milestones)

Many of our programs under license with our partners will generate contract payments to us if our partners reach

certain development, regulatory and commercial milestones. The following table represents the potential maximum value of our contract
payment pipeline on milestones by development stage, technology and partner (in thousands):

Technology* 

Stage* 

Partner* 

OmniAb 
Captisol 
Vernalis 
LTP/Hep Direct 
NCE/Other 
Total 

> $825,000  Preclinical 
> $175,000  Clinical 
> $250,000  Regulatory 
> $250,000  Commercial 

> $2,000,000  Other 
> $3,500,000  Total 

> $40,000  Viking 
> $500,000  Metavant 

> $1,000,000 
Janssen 
> $1,660,000  Seelos 

> $300,000  Retrophin 

> $3,500,000  Corvus (Oncology) 

Xi'an Xintong 
Other 
Total 

$1,500,000 
$528,750 
$245,400 
$141,800 
$100,750 
$91,500 
$43,125 
> $848,675 
> $3,500,000 

*All tables exclude our annual access fees and collaboration revenue for development work.

Internal Development Programs 

We have a number of internal development programs focused on a wide-range of indications. Our primary research and development

efforts are led by our teams in Emeryville, California and Cambridge, England. The following table represents internal programs eligible
for further development or partnership:

16

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Program 
Luminespib/Hsp90 Inhibitor
FAAH Inhibitor
CE-Sertraline, Oral Concentrate
CE-Iohexol
CCR1 Antagonist
CE-Busulfan
CE-Cetirizine Injection
CE-Silymarin for Topical formulation
FLT3 Kinase Inhibitors
GCSF Receptor Agonist
Liver Specific Glucokinase Activator
Omnichicken derived antibodies (5 programs)
Chk1 Inhibitor

Development Stage 
Phase 2
Phase 1
Phase 1
Phase 1
Preclinical
Preclinical
Preclinical
Preclinical
Preclinical
Preclinical
Preclinical
Discovery
Preclinical

Indication 
Oncology
Pain
Depression
Diagnostics
Oncology
Oncology
Allergy
Sun damage
Oncology
Blood disorders
Diabetes
Multiple
Oncology

Manufacturing

We contract with a third party manufacturer, Hovione, for Captisol production. Hovione is a global supplier with over 50 years of
experience in the development and manufacture of APIs and Drug Product Intermediates. Hovione operates FDA-inspected sites in the
United States, Macau, Ireland and Portugal. Manufacturing operations for Captisol are currently performed at two sites, in both of
Hovione's Portugal and Ireland facilities with distribution operations also performed from Hovione's Portugal and Ireland sites.
Additionally, we also store and distribute Captisol from a subterranean warehouse controlled by us and located in Kansas. We believe we
maintain adequate inventory of Captisol to meet our current and future partner needs.

In the event of a Captisol supply interruption, we are permitted to designate and, with Hovione’s assistance, qualify one or more

alternate suppliers. If the supply interruption continues beyond a designated period, we may terminate the agreement. In addition, if
Hovione cannot supply our requirements of Captisol due to an uncured force majeure event, we may also obtain Captisol from a third party
and have previously identified such parties.

The current term of the agreement with Hovione is through December 2024. The agreement will automatically renew for successive
two year renewal terms unless either party gives written notice of its intention to terminate the agreement no less than two years prior to the
expiration of the initial term or renewal term. In addition, either party may terminate the agreement for the uncured material breach or
bankruptcy of the other party or an extended force majeure event. We may terminate the agreement for extended supply interruption,
regulatory action related to Captisol or other specified events. We have ongoing minimum purchase commitments under the agreement.

For further discussion of these items, see below under “Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and

Results of Operations.”

Competition

Some of the drugs we and our licensees and partners are developing may compete with existing therapies or other drugs in
development by other companies. Furthermore, academic institutions, government agencies and other public and private organizations
conducting research may seek patent protection with respect to potentially competing products or technologies and may establish
collaborative arrangements with our competitors.

Our Captisol business may face competition from other suppliers of similar cyclodextrin excipients or other technologies that are
aimed to increase solubility or stability of APIs. Our OmniAb antibody technology faces competition from suppliers of other transgenic
animal systems that are also available for antibody drug discovery.

Our competitive position also depends upon our ability to obtain patent protection or otherwise develop proprietary products or

processes. For a discussion of the risks associated with competition, see below under “Item 1A. Risk Factors.”

17

Government Regulation

The research and development, manufacturing and marketing of pharmaceutical products are subject to regulation by numerous

governmental authorities in the United States and other countries. We and our partners, depending on specific activities performed, are
subject to these regulations. In the United States, pharmaceuticals are subject to regulation by both federal and various state authorities,
including the FDA. The Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act and the Public Health Service Act govern the testing, manufacture, safety,
efficacy, labeling, storage, record keeping, approval, advertising and promotion of pharmaceutical products and there are often comparable
regulations that apply at the state level. There are similar regulations in other countries as well. For both currently marketed and products in
development, failure to comply with applicable regulatory requirements can, among other things, result in delays, the suspension of
regulatory approvals, as well as possible civil and criminal sanctions. In addition, changes in existing regulations could have a material
adverse effect on us or our partners. For a discussion of the risks associated with government regulations, see below under “Item 1A. Risk
Factors.”

Patents and Proprietary Rights

We believe that patents and other proprietary rights are important to our business. Our policy is to file patent applications to protect
technology, inventions and improvements to our inventions that are considered important to the development of our business. We also rely
upon trade secrets, know-how, continuing technological innovations and licensing opportunities to develop and maintain our competitive
position.

Patents are issued or pending for the following key products or product families. The scope and type of patent protection provided
by each patent family is defined by the claims in the various patents. The nominal patent expiration dates have been provided. The actual
patent term may vary by jurisdiction and depend on a number of factors including potential patent term adjustments, patent term extensions,
and terminal disclaimers. For each product or product family, the patents and/or applications referred to are in force in at least the United
States, and for most products and product families, the patents and/or applications are also in force in European jurisdictions, Japan and
other jurisdictions.

Promacta

Patents covering Promacta are owned by Novartis. The United States patent listed in the FDA’s Orange Book relating to Promacta

with the latest expiration date is not expected to expire until 2027. Six months of additional exclusivity to each of the U.S. expiration dates
listed in the table has been granted due to pediatric studies conducted by GlaxoSmithKline plc (NYSE:GSK), thereby taking the latest
expiration date into 2028. The type of patent protection (e.g., composition of matter or use) and the expiration date for each unexpired
patent listed in the Orange Book are provided in the following table. In addition, certain related patents in the commercially important
jurisdictions of Europe and Japan are identified in the following table.

Promacta 

Type of Protection 

U.S. Patent No. 

U.S. Expiration Date 

United States 

CoM / Use 

7,160,870 

11/20/2022 

Use 

7,332,481 

5/24/2021 

CoM / Use 

7,452,874 

5/24/2021 

Jurisdiction 
EU 
EU 
EU 
Japan 
Japan 
EU 
EU 
EU 
Japan 
Japan 
EU 
EU 
Japan 
Japan 

18

Corresponding Foreign 
Patent Number 
1,864,981 
1,889,838 
1,294,378 
3,813,875 
4,546,919 
1,294,378 
1,864,981 
1,889,838 
3,813,875 
4,546,919 
1,864,981 
1,889,838 
3,813,875 
4,546,919 

Expiration Date‡ 
5/24/2021 
5/24/2021 
3/14/2025* 
5/24/2021 
5/24/2021 
3/14/2025* 
5/24/2021 
5/24/2021 
5/24/2021 
5/24/2021 
5/24/2021 
5/24/2021 
5/24/2021 
5/24/2021 

CoM / Use 

7,473,686 

5/24/2021 

CoM / Use 

7,547,719 

7/13/2025 

Use 

7,790,704 

5/24/2021 

Use 

7,795,293 

5/21/2023 

CoM / Use 

8,052,993 

8/1/2027 

CoM / Use 

8,052,994 

8/1/2027 

CoM / Use 

8,052,995 

8/1/2027 

CoM / Use 

8,062,665 

8/1/2027 

CoM / Use 

8,071,129 

8/1/2027 

CoM / Use 

8,828,430 

8/1/2027 

EU 
EU 
EU 
Japan 
Japan 
EU 
Japan 
EU 
EU 
EU 
Japan 
Japan 
EU 
Japan 
EU 
Japan 
Japan 
Japan 
EU 
Japan 
Japan 
Japan 
EU 
Japan 
Japan 
Japan 
EU 
Japan 
Japan 
Japan 
EU 
Japan 
Japan 
Japan 
EU 
Japan 
Japan 
Japan 

1,864,981 
1,294,378 
1,889,838 
3,813,875 
4,546,919 
1,534,390 
4,612,414 
1,294,378 
1,864,981 
1,889,838 
3,813,875 
4,546,919 
1,534,390 
4,612,414 
2,152,237 
5,419,866 
5,735,078 
6,144,713 
2,152,237 
5,419,866 
5,735,078 
6,144,713 
2,152,237 
5,419,866 
5,735,078 
6,144,713 
2,152,237 
5,419,866 
5,735,078 
6,144,713 
2,152,237 
5,419,866 
5,735,078 
6,144,713 
2,152,237 
5,419,866 
5,735,078 
6,144,713 

5/24/2021 
3/14/2025* 
5/24/2021 
5/24/2021 
5/24/2021 
5/21/2023 
5/21/2023 
3/14/2025* 
5/24/2021 
5/24/2021 
5/24/2021 
5/24/2021 
5/21/2023 
5/21/2023 

8/1/2027⁑
8/1/2027 
8/1/2027 
8/1/2027 

8/1/2027⁑
8/1/2027 
8/1/2027 
8/1/2027 

8/1/2027⁑
8/1/2027 
8/1/2027 
8/1/2027 

8/1/2027⁑
8/1/2027 
8/1/2027 
8/1/2027 

8/1/2027⁑
8/1/2027 
8/1/2027 
8/1/2027 

8/1/2027⁑
8/1/2027 
8/1/2027 
8/1/2027 

‡Expiration dates of European and Japanese patents are calculated as 20 years from the earliest nonprovisional filing date to which priority is claimed, and may not take
into account extensions that are or may be available in these jurisdictions.
⁎Includes extension of term through Supplementary Protection Certificate (SPC)
⁑Revoked; on appeal

Kyprolis

Patents protecting Kyprolis include those owned by Amgen and those owned by us. The United States patent listed in the Orange
Book relating to Kyprolis with the latest expiration date is not expected to expire until 2029. Patents and applications owned by Ligand
relating to the Captisol component of Kyprolis are not expected to expire until 2033. Amgen has filed suit against several generic drug
companies over their applications to make generic versions of Kyprolis, with a trial scheduled for May 2019. The type of patent protection
(e.g., composition of matter or use) for each patent listed in the Orange Book and the expiration dates for each patent listed in the Orange
Book are provided in the following table. In addition, certain related patents in the commercially important jurisdictions of Europe and
Japan are identified in the following table.

19

Kyprolis 

Type of Protection 

U.S. Patent No. 

U.S. Expiration Date 

United States 

CoM 

7,232,818 

4/14/2025 

CoM 

7,417,042 

7/20/2026 

Use 

7,491,704 

4/14/2025 

CoM 

7,737,112 

12/7/2027 

Use 

8,129,346 

4/14/2025 

CoM 

8,207,125 

4/14/2025 

CoM / Use 

8,207,126 

4/14/2025 

Use 

8,207,127 

4/14/2025 

CoM / Use 

8,207,297 

4/14/2025 

CoM 

Use 

9,493,582 

2/27/2023

9,511,109 

10/21/2029 

Jurisdiction 
EU 
EU 
EU 
EU 
EU 
Japan 
Japan 
EU 
EU 
EU 
EU 
Japan 
Japan 
EU 
EU 
EU 
EU 
EU 
Japan 
Japan 
EU 
EU 
EU 
Japan 
Japan 
EU 
Japan 
Japan 
EU 
EU 
Japan 
Japan 
Japan 
EU 
Japan 
Japan 
EU 
Japan 
Japan 
EU 
Japan 
Japan 
N/A 
EU 
Japan 
Japan 

Corresponding Foreign 
Patent Number 
1,745,064 
1,781,688 
2,266,999 
2,270,026 
3,101,026 
4,743,720 
5,394,423 
1,781,688 
2,266,999 
2,270,026 
3,101,026 
4,743,720 
5,394,423 
1,745,064 
1,781,688 
2,266,999 
2,270,026 
3,101,026 
4,743,720 
5,394,423 
1,819,353 
2,260,835 
2,261,236 
4,990,155 
5,108,509 
1,745,064 
5,394,423 
5,616,569 
1,781,688 
1,745,064 
5,394,423 
5,616,569 
4,743,720 
1,745,064 
5,394,423 
5,616,569 
1,745,064 
5,394,423 
5,616,569 
1,745,064 
5,394,423 
5,616,569 

Expiration Date‡ 
4/14/2025 
8/8/2025 
8/8/2025 
8/8/2025 
8/8/2025 
8/8/2025 
4/14/2025 
8/8/2025 
8/8/2025 
8/8/2025 
8/8/2025 
8/8/2025 
4/14/2025 
4/14/2025 
8/8/2025 
8/8/2025 
8/8/2025 
8/8/2025 
8/8/2025 
4/14/2025 
12/7/2025 
12/7/2025 
12/7/2025 
12/7/2025 
5/9/2025 
4/14/2025 
4/14/2025 
4/14/2025 
8/8/2025 
4/14/2025 
4/14/2025 
4/14/2025 
8/8/2025 
4/14/2025 
4/14/2025 
4/14/2025 
4/14/2025 
4/14/2025 
4/14/2025 
4/14/2025 
4/14/2025 
4/14/2025 

2,796,134 
5,675,629 
6,081,964 

10/21/2029 
10/21/2029 
10/21/2029 

‡Expiration dates of European and Japanese patents are calculated as 20 years from the earliest nonprovisional filing date to which priority is claimed, and do not take
into account extensions that are or may be available in these jurisdictions.

20

Captisol

Patents and pending patent applications covering Captisol are owned by us. Other patents and pending patent applications covering

methods of making Captisol are owned by us or by Pfizer. The patents covering the Captisol product, if issued, with the latest expiration
date would not be set to expire until 2033 (see, e.g., U.S. Patent No. 9,493,582 (expires Feb. 27, 2033)). We have asserted U.S. Patents
8,410,077, 9,200,088, and 9,493,582 against Teva in connection with their attempt to obtain FDA approval to manufacture and sell a
generic version of EVOMELA®. We also own several patents and pending patent applications covering drug products containing Captisol
as a component. The type of patent protection (e.g., composition of matter or use) and the expiration dates for several issued patents
covering Captisol are provided in the following table. In addition, certain related patents and applications in the commercially important
jurisdictions of Europe and Japan are listed in the following table.

Captisol

Type of Protection

United States
U.S. Patent No.

U.S. Expiration Date

CoM

CoM

CoM

Use

CoM

8,114,438 

3/19/2028

10,117,940 

4/22/2025

7,629,331 

10/26/2025

8,049,003 

12/19/2026

8,846,901 

10/26/2025

CoM

8,829,182 

10/26/2025

CoM/Use/MoM

9,617,352 

3/13/2029

CoM / Use

7,635,773 

3/13/2029

CoM

8,410,077 

3/13/2029

CoM

9,200,088 

3/13/2029

Jurisdiction
EU
Japan
EU
Japan
EU
EU
EU
Japan
EU
EU
EU
EU
Japan
EU
EU
EU
EU
Japan
EU
Japan
Japan
Japan
Japan
Japan
Japan
Japan
Japan
Japan
Japan
Japan
Japan

21

Corresponding Foreign 
Patent Number
2,708,225 
6,141,906 
2,708,225 
6,141,906 
1,945,228 
2,335,707 
2,581,078 
5,465,432 
2,583,668 
1,945,228 
2,335,707 
2,581,078 
5,465,432 
1,945,228 
2,335,707 
2,581,078 
2,952,197 
5,465,432 
2,952,197 
4,923,144 
6,039,721 
6,276,828 
6,444,548 
4,923,144 
6,039,721 
6,276,828 
6,444,548 
4,923,144 
6,039,721 
6,276,828 
6,444,548 

Expiration Date‡
4/22/2025
4/22/2025
4/22/2025
4/22/2025
10/26/2025
10/26/2025
10/26/2025
10/26/2026
10/26/2025
10/26/2025
10/26/2025
10/26/2025
10/26/2026
10/26/2025
10/26/2025
10/26/2025
10/26/2025
10/26/2026
10/26/2025
4/28/2029
4/28/2029
4/28/2029
4/28/2029
4/28/2029
4/28/2029
4/28/2029
4/28/2029
4/28/2029
4/28/2029
4/28/2029
4/28/2029

CoM

9,750,822 

3/13/2029

CoM

10,117,951 

3/13/2029

MoM
CoM
CoM/MoM

9,751,957 
9,493,582 
10,040,872 

2/14/2033
2/27/2033
2/27/2033

Japan
Japan
Japan
Japan
Japan
Japan
Japan
Japan
N/A
N/A
N/A

4,923,144 
6,039,721 
6,276,828 
6,444,548 
4,923,144 
6,039,721 
6,276,828 
6,444,548 

4/28/2029
4/28/2029
4/28/2029
4/28/2029
4/28/2029
4/28/2029
4/28/2029
4/28/2029

‡ Expiration date of European and Japanese patents are calculated as 20 years from the earliest nonprovisional filing date to which priority is claimed, and do not take
into account extensions that are or may be available in these jurisdictions.

Subject to compliance with the terms of the respective agreements, our rights to receive royalty payments under our licenses with our

exclusive licensors typically extend for the life of the patents covering such developments. For a discussion of the risks associated with
patent and proprietary rights, see below under “Item 1A. Risk Factors.”

OmniAb 

Our OmniAb® therapeutic antibody platforms, including OmniRat®, OmniMouse® and OmniChicken™, produce naturally

optimized, fully human antibodies in animals. We have received patent protection on OmniAb antibodies and methods in 30 countries,
including the United States, multiple countries throughout Europe, Japan and China (see selected cases listed in the table below) and
have 56 patent applications pending in 24 countries worldwide. The patents and applications owned by us are expected to expire between
2028 and 2034 and partners are able to use the OMT patented technology to generate novel antibodies, which may be entitled to additional
patent protection.

OmniAb 

Type of Protection 

U.S. Patent No. 

U.S. Expiration Date 

United States 

CoM 

Use 
CoM/Use 

8,703,485 

10/10/2031

9,388,233 
10,072,069 
8,907,157 
9,475,859 

5/30/2028 
5/30/2028 
5/30/2028 
4/15/2034

Jurisdiction 
EU 
EU 
EU 
Japan
Japan
N/A
N/A
N/A 
N/A 

Corresponding Foreign 
Patent Number 
2,152,880 
2,336,329 
2,603,323 
5,823,690 
6,220,827 

Expiration Date‡ 
5/30/2028 
5/30/2028 
5/30/2028 
5/30/2028 
5/30/2028 

22

OmniAb in OmniChicken

Type of Protection
CoM/Use
MoM
CoM
CoM
Use
CoM/Use
CoM/Use
CoM/MoM/Use
Com/MoM/Use
CoM
CoM
CoM/Use
CoM

United States

U.S. Patent No.
8,030,095 
8,415,173 
8,592,644 
9,404,125 
9,549,538 
10,010,058 
10,172,334 
8,865,462 
9,644,178 
9,380,769 
9,809,642 
9,394,372 
9,982,062 

U.S. Expiration Date
12/23/2029
3/2/2029
8/30/2030
12/29/2030
8/11/2030
8/11/2030
8/11/2030
5/8/2032
1/7/2031
5/23/2032
5/23/2032
10/16/2032
10/16/2032

Jurisdiction
Europe
Japan
Japan
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
EU
N/A
N/A
N/A

Corresponding Foreign
Patent Number
2,271,657 
5,737,707 
5,756,802 

Expiration Date‡
3/2/2029
3/2/2029
8/11/2030

2,713,712 

5/23/2032

‡ Expiration date of European and Japanese patents are calculated as 20 years from the earliest nonprovisional filing date to which priority is claimed, and do not take
into account extensions that are or may be available in these jurisdictions.

Vernalis

Our acquisition of Vernalis in October 2018 provides us with a portfolio of more than 8 fully-funded shots on goal, including
RPL554, a Phase 2, novel treatment for COPD, which is partnered with Verona Pharma; and CPI-444, a Phase 1 adenosine A2A receptor
antagonist for treatment of solid tumors, which is partnered with Corvus Pharmaceuticals. Vernalis has a worldwide patent portfolio of over
350 granted patents and over 35 pending applications, spanning over 60 countries.  

Employees

As of February 12, 2019, including our newly acquired Vernalis subsidiary, we have 116 full-time employees, of whom 87 are

involved directly in scientific research and development activities.

Investor Information

Financial and other information about us is available on our website at www.ligand.com. We make available on our website copies
of our Annual Report on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K and amendments to those reports filed
or furnished pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Exchange Act as soon as reasonably practicable after we electronically file such
material with, or furnish it to, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, or SEC. In addition, we have previously filed registration
statements and other documents with the SEC. Any document we file may be inspected, at the SEC’s public reference room at 100 F Street
NE, Washington, DC 20549, or at the SEC’s internet address at www.sec.gov. These website addresses are not intended to function as
hyperlinks, and the information contained in our website and in the SEC’s website is not intended to be a part of this filing. Information
related to the operation of the SEC’s public reference room may be obtained by calling the SEC at 800-SEC-0330.

ITEM 1A.

RISK FACTORS

The following is a summary description of some of the many risks we face in our business. You should carefully review these risks in

evaluating our business, including the businesses of our subsidiaries. You should also consider the other information described in this
report. Additional risks not presently known to us or that we currently deem immaterial also may impair our business.

23

Future revenue based on Promacta, Kyprolis and Evomela, as well as sales of our other products, may be lower than expected.

Novartis is obligated to pay us royalties on its sales of Promacta, and we receive revenue from Amgen based on both sales of
Kyprolis and purchases of Captisol material for clinical and commercial uses. These payments are expected to be a substantial portion of
our ongoing revenues for some time. In addition, we receive revenues based on sales of Evomela and other products. Any setback that may
occur with respect to any of our partners' products, and in particular Promacta or Kyprolis, could significantly impair our operating results
and/or reduce our revenue and the market price of our stock. Setbacks for the products could include problems with shipping, distribution,
manufacturing, product safety, marketing, government regulation or reimbursement, licenses and approvals, intellectual property rights,
competition with existing or new products and physician or patient acceptance of the products, as well as higher than expected total rebates,
returns, discounts, or unfavorable exchange rates. These products also are or may become subject to generic competition.

Future revenue from sales of Captisol material to our license partners may be lower than expected.

Revenues from sales of Captisol material to our collaborative partners represent a significant portion of our current revenues. Any

setback that may occur with respect to Captisol could significantly impair our operating results and/or reduce the market price of our stock.
Setbacks for Captisol could include problems with shipping, distribution, manufacturing, product safety, marketing, government regulation
or reimbursement, licenses and approvals, intellectual property rights, competition with existing or new products and physician or patient
acceptance of the products using Captisol.

If products or product candidates incorporating Captisol material were to cause any unexpected adverse events, the perception of

Captisol safety could be seriously harmed. If this were to occur, we may not be able to sell Captisol unless and until we are able to
demonstrate that the adverse event was unrelated to Captisol, which we may not be able to do. Further, the FDA could require us to submit
additional information for regulatory review or approval, including data from extensive safety testing or clinical testing of products using
Captisol. This would be expensive and it may delay the marketing of Captisol-enabled products and receipt of revenue related to those
products, which could significantly impair our operating results and/or reduce the market price of our stock.

We obtain Captisol from a sole source supplier, and if this supplier were to cease to be able, for any reason, to supply Captisol to us
in the amounts we require, or decline to supply Captisol to us, we would be required to seek an alternative source, which could potentially
take a considerable length of time and impact our revenue and customer relationships. We maintain inventory of Captisol, which has a five
year shelf life, at three geographically dispersed storage locations in the United States and Europe.  If we were to encounter problems
maintaining our inventory, such as natural disasters, at one or more of these locations, it could lead to supply interruptions. While we
believe we maintain adequate inventory of Captisol to meet our current and expected future partner needs, our estimates and projections for
Captisol demand may be wrong and any supply interruptions could materially adversely impact our operating results.

We currently depend on our arrangements with our partners and licensees to sell products using our Captisol technology. These
agreements generally provide that our partners may terminate the agreements at will. If our partners discontinue sales of products using
Captisol, fail to obtain regulatory approval for products using Captisol, fail to satisfy their obligations under their agreements with us, or
choose to utilize a generic form of Captisol should it become available, or if we are unable to establish new licensing and marketing
relationships, our financial results and growth prospects would be materially affected. Furthermore, we maintain significant accounts
receivable balances with certain customers purchasing Captisol materials, which may result in the concentration of credit risk. We
generally do not require any collateral from our customers to secure payment of these accounts receivable. If any of our major customers
were to default in the payment of their obligations to us, our business, operating results and cash flows could be adversely affected.

Further, under most of our Captisol outlicenses, the amount of royalties we receive will be reduced or will cease when the relevant
patent expires. Our low-chloride patents and foreign equivalents are not expected to expire until 2033, our high purity patents and foreign
equivalents, are not expected to expire until 2029 and our morphology patents and foreign equivalents, are not expected to expire until
2025, but the initially filed patents relating to Captisol expired starting in 2010 in the United States and in 2016 in most countries outside
the United States. If our other intellectual property rights are not sufficient to prevent a generic form of Captisol from coming to market and
if in such case our partners choose to terminate their agreements with us, our Captisol revenue may decrease significantly.

24

Third party intellectual property may prevent us or our partners from developing our potential products; our and our partners’
intellectual property may not prevent competition; and any intellectual property issues may be expensive and time consuming to resolve.

The manufacture, use or sale of our potential products or our licensees' products or potential products may infringe the patent rights

of others. If others obtain patents with conflicting claims, we may be required to obtain licenses to those patents or to develop or obtain
alternative technology. We may not be able to obtain any such licenses on acceptable terms, or at all. Any failure to obtain such licenses
could delay or prevent us from pursuing the development or commercialization of our potential products.

Generally, our success will depend on our ability and the ability of our partners to obtain and maintain patents and other intellectual
property rights for our and their potential products.  Our patent position is uncertain and involves complex legal and technical questions for
which legal principles are unresolved.  Even if we or our partners do obtain patents, such patents may not adequately protect the technology
we own or have licensed. 

We permit our partners to list our patents that cover their branded products in the Orange Book. If a third party files an NDA or

ANDA for a generic drug product that relies in whole or in part on studies contained in our partner’s NDA for their branded product, the
third party will have the option to certify to the FDA that, in the opinion of that third party, the patents listed in the Orange Book for our
partner’s branded product are invalid, unenforceable, or will not be infringed by the manufacture, use or sale of the third party’s generic
drug product. A third party certification that a new product will not infringe Orange Book-listed patents, or that such patents are invalid, is
called a paragraph IV patent certification. If the third party submits a paragraph IV patent certification to the FDA, a notice of the
paragraph IV patent certification must be sent to the NDA owner and the owner of the patents that are subject to the paragraph IV patent
certification notice once the third-party’s NDA or ANDA is accepted for filing by the FDA. A lawsuit may then be initiated to defend the
patents identified in the notice. The filing of a patent infringement lawsuit within 45 days of the receipt of notice of a paragraph IV patent
certification automatically prevents the FDA from approving the generic NDA or ANDA until the earlier of the expiration of a 30-month
period, the expiration of the patents, the entry of a settlement order stating that the patents are invalid or not infringed, a decision in the
infringement case that is favorable to the NDA or ANDA applicant, or such shorter or longer period as the court may order. If a patent
infringement lawsuit is not initiated within the required 45-day period, the third-party’s NDA or ANDA will not be subject to the 30-month
stay.

Several third-parties have challenged, and additional third parties may challenge, the patents covering our partner’s branded

products, including Promacta, Kyprolis and Evomela, which could result in the invalidation or unenforceability of some or all of the
relevant patent claims. We may from time to time become party to litigation or other proceedings as a result of Paragraph IV certifications.
For example, in November 2017, CyDex, our wholly owned subsidiary, received a paragraph IV certification from Teva alleging that
certain of our patents related to Captisol were invalid, unenforceable and/or will not be infringed by Teva’s ANDA related to Spectrum
Pharmaceuticals’ NDA for Evomela. On December 20, 2017, CyDex filed a complaint against Teva in the U.S. District Court for the
District of Delaware, asserting that Teva’s ANDA would infringe our patents. On March 22, 2018, Teva filed an answer and counterclaims
seeking declarations of non-infringement and invalidity as to each of the asserted patents and on April 12, 2018, CyDex filed an answer to
Teva’s counterclaims. On July 24, 2018, the U.S. District Court entered a Scheduling Order, setting a hearing on Claim Construction for
April 1, 2019, and a five to six day bench trial to begin on January 27, 2020. Fact discovery is proceeding.

In addition, we cannot assure you that all of the potentially relevant prior art-information that was or is deemed available to a person
of skill in the relevant art prior to the priority date of the claimed invention-relating to our and our partners’ patents and patent applications
has been found. If such prior art exists, it can invalidate a patent or prevent a patent from issuing from a pending patent application, and we
or our partners may be subject to a third party pre-issuance submission of prior art to the United States Patent and Trademark Office. Even
if patents do successfully issue and even if such patents cover our or our partner’s products or potential products, third parties may an
initiate litigation or opposition, interference, re-examination, post-grant review, inter partes review, nullification or derivation action in
court or before patent offices, or similar proceedings challenging the validity, enforceability or scope of such patents, which may result in
the patent claims being narrowed or invalidated, may allow third parties to commercialize our or our partners’ products and compete
directly with us and our partners, without payment to us or our partners, or limit the duration of the patent protection of our and our
partners’ technology and products. For example, we are aware that a third party has requested a reexamination of U.S. Patent No.
8,703,485 related to OmniAb on the basis of certain prior art documents. If the United States Patent and Trademark Office grants the
request, we will have an opportunity to respond, but we cannot assure you that this patent will be held to be valid.

Litigation or other proceedings to enforce or defend intellectual property rights are often very complex in nature, may be very
expensive and time-consuming, may divert our management’s attention from our core business, and may result in unfavorable results that
could adversely impact our ability to prevent third parties from competing with our partner’s products.

25

Any adverse outcome of such litigation or other proceedings could result in one or more or our patents being held invalid or unenforceable,
which could adversely affect our ability to successfully execute our business strategy and negatively impact our financial condition and
results of operations. However, given the unpredictability inherent in litigation, we cannot predict or guarantee the outcome of these matters
or any other litigation. Regardless of how these matters are ultimately resolved, these matters may be costly, time-consuming and
distracting to our management, which could have a material adverse effect on our business.

In addition, periodic maintenance fees, renewal fees, annuity fees and various other governmental fees on patents and or applications

will be due to the U.S. and various foreign patent offices at various points over the lifetime of our and our licensees’ patents and/or
applications. We have systems in place to remind us to pay these fees, and we rely on our outside patent annuity service to pay these fees
when due. Additionally, the U.S. and various foreign patent offices require compliance with a number of procedural, documentary, fee
payment and other similar provisions during the patent application process. We employ reputable law firms and other professionals to help
us comply, and in many cases, an inadvertent lapse can be cured by payment of a late fee or by other means in accordance with rules
applicable to the particular jurisdiction. However, there are situations in which noncompliance can result in abandonment or lapse of the
patent or patent application, resulting in partial or
complete loss of patent rights in the relevant jurisdiction. If such an event were to occur, it could have a material adverse effect on our
business.

Any conflicts with the patent rights of others could significantly reduce the coverage of our patents or limit our ability to obtain

meaningful patent protection. For example, our European patent related to Agglomerated forms of Captisol was limited during an
opposition proceeding, and the rejection of our European patent application related to High Purity Captisol was upheld on appealed. In
addition, any determination that our patent rights are invalid may result in early termination of our agreements with our license partners and
could adversely affect our ability to enter into new license agreements. We also rely on unpatented trade secrets and know-how to protect
and maintain our competitive position. We require our employees, consultants, licensees and others to sign confidentiality agreements when
they begin their relationship with us. These agreements may be breached, and we may not have adequate remedies for any breach. In
addition, our competitors may independently discover our trade secrets.

We may also need to initiate litigation, which could be time-consuming and expensive, to enforce our proprietary rights or to
determine the scope and validity of others' rights. If this occurs, a court may find our patents or those of our licensors invalid or may find
that we have infringed on a competitor's rights. In addition, if any of our competitors have filed patent applications in the United States
which claim technology we also have invented, the United States Patent and Trademark Office may require us to participate in expensive
interference proceedings to determine who has the right to a patent for the technology.

The occurrence of any of the foregoing problems could be time-consuming and expensive and could adversely affect our financial

position, liquidity and results of operations.

We rely heavily on licensee relationships, and any disputes or litigation with our partners or termination or breach of any of the related
agreements could reduce the financial resources available to us, including milestone payments and future royalty revenues.

Our existing collaborations may not continue or be successful, and we may be unable to enter into future collaborative arrangements

to develop and commercialize our unpartnered assets. Generally, our current collaborative partners also have the right to terminate their
collaborations at will or under specified circumstances. If any of our collaborative partners breach or terminate their agreements with us or
otherwise fail to conduct their collaborative activities successfully (for example, by not making required payments when due, or at all), our
product development under these agreements will be delayed or terminated. Disputes or litigation may also arise with our collaborators
(with us and/or with one or more third parties), including those over ownership rights to intellectual property, know-how or technologies
developed with our collaborators. For example, we are asserting our rights to receive payment against one of our collaborative partners
which could harm our relationship with such partner. Such disputes or litigation could adversely affect our rights to one or more of our
product candidates and could delay, interrupt or terminate the collaborative research, development and commercialization of certain
potential products, create uncertainty as to ownership rights of intellectual property, or could result in litigation or arbitration. In addition, a
significant downturn or deterioration in the business or financial condition of our collaborators or partners could result in a loss of expected
revenue and our expected returns on investment. The occurrence of any of these problems could be time-consuming and expensive and
could adversely affect our business.

26

Our product candidates, and the product candidates of our partners, face significant development and regulatory hurdles prior to
partnering and/or marketing which could delay or prevent licensing, sales-based royalties and/or milestone revenue.

Before we or our partners obtain the approvals necessary to sell any of our unpartnered assets or partnered programs, we must show

through preclinical studies and human testing that each potential product is safe and effective. We and/or our partners have a number of
partnered programs and unpartnered assets moving toward or currently awaiting regulatory action. Failure to show any product's safety and
effectiveness could delay or prevent regulatory approval of a product and could adversely affect our business. The drug development and
clinical trials process is complex and uncertain. For example, the results of preclinical studies and initial clinical trials may not necessarily
predict the results from later large-scale clinical trials. In addition, clinical trials may not demonstrate a product's safety and effectiveness to
the satisfaction of the regulatory authorities. A number of companies have suffered significant setbacks in advanced clinical trials or in
seeking regulatory approvals, despite promising results in earlier trials. The FDA may also require additional clinical trials after regulatory
approvals are received. Such additional trials may be expensive and time-consuming, and failure to successfully conduct those trials could
jeopardize continued commercialization of a product.

The speed at which we and our partners complete our scientific studies and clinical trials depends on many factors, including, but not

limited to, the ability to obtain adequate supplies of the products to be tested and patient enrollment. Patient enrollment is a function of
many factors, including the size of the patient population, the proximity of patients to clinical sites, the eligibility criteria for the trial and
other potential drug candidates being studied. Delays in patient enrollment for our or our partners’ trials may result in increased costs and
longer development times. In addition, our partners have rights to control product development and clinical programs for products
developed under our collaborations. As a result, these partners may conduct these programs more slowly or in a different manner than
expected. Moreover, even if clinical trials are completed, we or our partners still may not apply for FDA or foreign regulatory approval in a
timely manner or the FDA or foreign regulatory authority still may not grant approval.

Our drug discovery, early-stage drug development, and product reformulation programs may require substantial additional capital to

complete successfully. Our partner's drug development programs may require substantial additional capital to complete successfully,
arising from costs to: conduct research, preclinical testing and human studies; establish pilot scale and commercial scale manufacturing
processes and facilities; and establish and develop quality control, regulatory, marketing, sales and administrative capabilities to support
these programs. While we expect to fund our research and development activities from cash generated from operations to the extent
possible, if we are unable to do so, we may need to complete additional equity or debt financings or seek other external means of financing.
These financings could depress our stock price. If additional funds are required to support our operations and we are unable to obtain them
on terms favorable to us, we may be required to cease or reduce further development or commercialization of our products, to sell some or
all of our technology or assets or to merge with another entity.

Our OmniAb antibody platform faces specific risks, including the fact that no drug using antibodies from the platform has yet advanced
to late stage clinical trials.

None of our collaboration partners using our OmniAb antibody platform have tested drugs based on the platform in late stage clinical

trials and, therefore, none of our OmniAb collaboration partners’ drugs have received FDA approval. If one of our OmniAb collaboration
partners’ drug candidates fails during preclinical studies or clinical trials, our other OmniAb collaboration partners may decide to abandon
drugs using antibodies generated from the OmniAb platform, whether or not attributable to the platform. All of our OmniAb collaboration
partners may terminate their programs at any time without penalty. In addition, our OmniRat and OmniFlic platforms, which we consider
the most promising, are covered by two patents within the U.S. and two patents in the European Union and are subject to the same risks as
our patent portfolio discussed above, including the risk that our patents may infringe on third party patent rights or that our patents may be
invalidated. Further, we face significant competition from other companies selling human antibody-generating rodents, especially mice
which compete with our OmniMouse platform, including the VelocImmune mouse, the AlivaMab mouse, the Trianni mouse and the
Kymouse. Many of our competitors have greater financial, technical and human resources than we do and may be better equipped to
develop, manufacture and market competing antibody platforms.

If plaintiffs bring product liability lawsuits against us or our partners, we or our partners may incur substantial liabilities and may be
required to limit commercialization of our approved products and product candidates.

As is common in our industry, our partners and we face an inherent risk of product liability as a result of the clinical testing of our

product candidates in clinical trials and face an even greater risk for commercialized products. Although we are not currently a party to
product liability litigation, if we are sued, we may be held liable if any product or product candidate we develop causes injury or is found
otherwise unsuitable during product testing, manufacturing, marketing or sale. Regardless of

27

merit or eventual outcome, liability claims may result in decreased demand for any product candidates, partnered products or products that
we may develop, injury to our reputation, discontinuation of clinical trials, costs to defend litigation, substantial monetary awards to clinical
trial participants or patients, loss of revenue and product recall or withdrawal from the market and the inability to commercialize any
products that we develop. We have product liability insurance that covers our clinical trials up to a $10.0 million annual limit. Our
insurance coverage may not be sufficient to cover all of our product liability related expenses or losses and may not cover us for any
expenses or losses we may suffer. If we are sued for any injury caused by our product candidates, partnered products or any future
products, our liability could exceed our total assets.

Market acceptance and sales of any approved product will depend significantly on the availability and adequacy of coverage and
reimbursement from third-party payors and may be affected by existing and future healthcare reform measures.

Sales of the products we license to our collaboration partners and the royalties we receive will depend in large part on the extent to

which coverage and reimbursement is available from government and health administration authorities, private health maintenance
organizations and health insurers, and other healthcare payors. Significant uncertainty exists as to the reimbursement status of healthcare
products. Healthcare payors, including Medicare, are challenging the prices charged for medical products and services. Government and
other healthcare payors are increasingly attempting to contain healthcare costs by limiting both coverage and the level of reimbursement for
medical products. Even if a product is approved by the FDA, insurance coverage may not be available, and reimbursement levels may be
inadequate, to cover the costs associated with the research, development, marketing and sale of the product. If government and other
healthcare payors do not provide adequate coverage and reimbursement levels for any product, market acceptance and any sales could be
reduced.

From time to time, legislation is implemented to reign in rising healthcare expenditures. By way of example, in March 2010, the

Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, as amended by the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act, or collectively, the ACA,
was enacted, which included a number of provisions affecting the pharmaceutical industry, including, among other things, annual, non-
deductible fees on any entity that manufactures or imports some types of branded prescription drugs and increases in Medicaid rebates
owed by manufacturers under the Medicaid Drug Rebate Program. Since its enactment, there have been judicial and Congressional
challenges to certain aspects of the ACA, and we expect there will be additional challenges and amendments to the ACA in the future.

Other legislative changes have been proposed and adopted since the ACA was enacted, including aggregate reductions of Medicare

payments to providers of 2% per fiscal year and reduced payments to several types of Medicare providers. Moreover, there has recently
been heightened governmental scrutiny over the manner in which manufacturers set prices for their marketed products, which has resulted
in several Congressional inquiries and proposed bills designed to, among other things, bring more transparency to product pricing, review
the relationship between pricing and manufacturer patient programs, and reform government program reimbursement methodologies for
drug products. Individual states in the United States have also become increasingly active in implementing regulations designed to control
pharmaceutical product pricing, including price or patient reimbursement constraints, discounts, restrictions on certain product access and
marketing cost disclosure and transparency measures, and, in some cases, designed to encourage importation from other countries and bulk
purchasing. We cannot predict whether other legislative changes will be adopted, if any, or how such changes would affect our operations
or financial condition.

We and our collaboration partners may be subject to federal and state healthcare laws, including fraud and abuse, false claims,
physician payment transparency and health information privacy and security laws. Our operations and those of our collaboration partners
are subject to various federal and state fraud and abuse laws, including, without limitation, anti-kickback, false claims and physician
payment transparency statutes. These laws may impact, among other things, financial arrangements with physicians, sales, marketing and
education programs and the manner in which any of those activities are implemented. In addition, we may be subject to federal and state
patient privacy regulations. If our operations or those of our collaboration partners are found to be in violation of any of those laws or any
other applicable governmental regulations, we or our collaboration partners may be subject to penalties, including civil and criminal
penalties, damages, fines, imprisonment, exclusion from government healthcare programs or the curtailment or restructuring of operations,
any of which could adversely affect our ability to operate our business and our financial condition.

Changes in funding for the FDA and other government agencies could hinder their ability to hire and retain key leadership and other
personnel, or otherwise prevent new products and services from being developed or commercialized in a timely manner, which could
negatively impact our business or the business of our partners.

The ability of the FDA to review and approve new products can be affected by a variety of factors, including government budget and

funding levels, ability to hire and retain key personnel and accept the payment of user fees, and statutory, regulatory,

28

and policy changes. Average review times at the agency have fluctuated in recent years as a result. In addition, government funding of
other government agencies that fund research and development activities is subject to the political process, which is inherently fluid and
unpredictable.

Disruptions at the FDA and other agencies may also slow the time necessary for new drugs to be reviewed and/or approved by
necessary government agencies, which would adversely affect our business or the business of our partners. For example, over the last
several years, including for 35 days beginning on December 22, 2018, the U.S. government has shut down several times and certain
regulatory agencies, such as the FDA, have had to furlough critical FDA employees and stop critical activities. If a prolonged government
shutdown occurs, it could significantly impact the ability of the FDA to timely review and process our regulatory submissions, which could
have a material adverse effect on our business. If the timing of FDA’s review and approval of new products is delayed, the timing of our or
our partners’ development process may be delayed which would result in delayed milestone revenues and materially harm our operations of
business.

Any difficulties from strategic acquisitions could adversely affect our stock price, operating results and results of operations.

We may acquire companies, businesses and products that complement or augment our existing business. We may not be able to
integrate any acquired business successfully or operate any acquired business profitably. Integrating any newly acquired business could be
expensive and time-consuming. Integration efforts often take a significant amount of time, place a significant strain on managerial,
operational and financial resources and could prove to be more difficult or expensive than we predict. The diversion of our management's
attention and any delay or difficulties encountered in connection with any future acquisitions we may consummate could result in the
disruption of our ongoing business or inconsistencies in standards and controls that could negatively affect our ability to maintain third-
party relationships. Moreover, we may need to raise additional funds through public or private debt or equity financing, or issue additional
shares, to acquire any businesses or products, which may result in dilution for stockholders or the incurrence of indebtedness.

As part of our efforts to acquire companies, business or product candidates or to enter into other significant transactions, we conduct
business, legal and financial due diligence with the goal of identifying and evaluating material risks involved in the transaction. Despite our
efforts, we ultimately may be unsuccessful in ascertaining or evaluating all such risks and, as a result, might not realize the intended
advantages of the transaction. If we fail to realize the expected benefits from acquisitions we may consummate in the future or have
consummated in the past, whether as a result of unidentified risks, integration difficulties, regulatory setbacks, litigation with current or
former employees and other events, our business, results of operations and financial condition could be adversely affected. If we acquire
product candidates, we will also need to make certain assumptions about, among other things, development costs, the likelihood of
receiving regulatory approval and the market for such product candidates. Our assumptions may prove to be incorrect, which could cause
us to fail to realize the anticipated benefits of these transactions.

In addition, we will likely experience significant charges to earnings in connection with our efforts, if any, to consummate
acquisitions. For transactions that are ultimately not consummated, these charges may include fees and expenses for investment bankers,
attorneys, accountants and other advisors in connection with our efforts. Even if our efforts are successful, we may incur, as part of a
transaction, substantial charges for closure costs associated with elimination of duplicate operations and facilities and acquired IPR&D
charges. In either case, the incurrence of these charges could adversely affect our results of operations for particular quarterly or annual
periods.

Changes or modifications in financial accounting standards, including those related to revenue recognition, may harm our results of
operations.

From time to time, the FASB either alone or jointly with other organizations, promulgates new accounting principles that could have

an adverse impact on our results of operations. For example, in May 2014, FASB issued a new accounting standard for revenue
recognition-Accounting Standards Codification Topic 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers, or ASC 606-that supersedes most
current revenue recognition guidance. The new guidance requires a company to recognize revenue upon transfer of goods or services to a
customer at an amount that reflects the expected consideration to be received in exchange for those goods or services. The new guidance
became effective in fiscal 2018.

This standard has a material impact on our consolidated financial statements by accelerating the timing of revenue recognition for

revenues related to royalties, and potentially certain contingent milestone based payments. Our practice has been to book royalties one
quarter after our partners report sales of the underlying product. Now, under ASC 606, Ligand estimates and books royalties in the same
quarter that our partners report the sale of the underlying product. As a result, we now book royalties one quarter earlier compared to our
past practice. We rely on our partners’ earning releases and other information from our partners to determine the sales of our partners’
products and to estimate the related royalty revenues. If our partners report

29

incorrect sales, or if our partners delay reporting of their earnings release, our royalty estimates may need to be revised and/or our financial
reporting may be delayed.

Any difficulties in implementing this guidance could cause us to fail to meet our financial reporting obligations, which could result

in regulatory discipline and harm investors’ confidence in us. Finally, if we were to change our critical accounting estimates, including
those related to the recognition of license revenue and other revenue sources, our operating results could be significantly affected.

Uncertainties in the interpretation and application of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act could materially affect
our tax obligations and effective tax rate. 

The 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (the Tax Act) was enacted on December 22, 2017, and significantly affected U.S. tax

law, including by changing how the U.S. imposes tax on certain types of income of corporations and by reducing the general U.S. corporate
income tax rate. The U.S. Department of Treasury has broad authority to issue regulations and interpretative guidance that may
significantly impact how we will apply the law and impact our results of operations in the period issued.

The Tax Act requires certain complex computations not previously provided in U.S. tax law. As such, the application of accounting

guidance for such items is currently uncertain. Further, compliance with the Tax Act and the accounting for such provisions require
accumulation of certain information not previously required or regularly produced. As a result, we have provided a provisional estimate on
the effect of the Tax Act in our financial statements. As additional and other regulatory guidance is issued by the applicable taxing
authorities, as accounting treatment is clarified, as we perform additional analysis on the application of the law, and as we refine estimates
in calculating the effect, our final analysis, which will be recorded in the period completed, may be different from our current provisional
amounts, which could materially affect our tax obligations and effective tax rate.

Our ability to use our net operating loss carryforwards and certain other tax attributes to offset future taxable income may be subject to
certain limitations.

As of December 31, 2018, we had U.S. federal and state net operating loss carryforwards (NOLs) of approximately $229.9 million
and $125.3 million, respectively, which expire through 2037, if not utilized. Under the Tax Act, any federal NOLs arising in taxable years
ending after December 31, 2017 will carry forward indefinitely. As of December 31, 2018, we had federal and California research and
development tax credit carryforwards of approximately $23.0 million and $22.7 million, respectively. The federal research and
development tax credit carryforwards expire in various years through 2037, if not utilized. The California research and development credit
will carry forward indefinitely. Under Sections 382 and 383 of Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (Code) if a corporation
undergoes an “ownership change,” the corporation’s ability to use its pre-change NOLs and other pre-change tax attributes, such as research
tax credits, to offset its future post-change income and taxes may be limited. In general, an “ownership change” occurs if there is a
cumulative change in our ownership by “5% shareholders” that exceeds 50 percentage points over a rolling three-year period. Similar rules
may apply under state tax laws. We believe we have experienced certain ownership changes in the past and have reduced our deferred tax
assets related to NOLs and research and development tax credit carryforwards accordingly. In the event that it is determined that we have in
the past experienced additional ownership changes, or if we experience one or more ownership changes as a result future transactions in our
stock, then we may be further limited in our ability to use our NOLs and other tax assets to reduce taxes owed on the net taxable income
that we earn in the event that we attain profitability. Furthermore, under the Tax Act, although the treatment of tax losses generated in tax
years beginning before December 31, 2017 has generally not changed, tax losses generated in tax years beginning after December 31, 2017
may only offset 80% of our taxable income. This change may require us to pay federal income taxes in future years despite having
potentially generated a loss for federal income tax purposes in prior years. Any such limitations on the ability to use our NOLs and other
tax assets could adversely impact our business, financial condition and operating results.

30

We rely on information technology and any failure, inadequacy, interruption or security lapse of that technology, including any cyber
security incidents, could harm our ability to operate our business effectively.

Our business is increasingly dependent on critical, complex and interdependent information technology systems, including internet-

based systems, to support business processes as well as internal and external communications. Despite the implementation of security
measures, our internal computer systems and those of our partners are vulnerable to damage from cyber-attacks, computer viruses, security
breaches, unauthorized access, natural disasters, terrorism, war and telecommunication and electrical failures. System failures, accidents or
security breaches could cause interruptions in our operations, could lead to the loss of trade secrets or other intellectual property, could lead
to the public exposure of personal information of our employees and others, and could result in a material disruption of our clinical and
commercialization activities and business operations, in addition to possibly requiring substantial expenditures to remedy. To the extent that
any disruption or security breach were to result in a loss of, or damage to, our data or applications, or inappropriate disclosure of
confidential or proprietary information, we could incur liability and our business and financial condition could be harmed.

The occurrence of a catastrophic disaster could damage our facilities beyond insurance limits or we could lose key data which could
cause us to curtail or cease operations.

We are vulnerable to damage and/or loss of vital data from natural disasters, such as earthquakes, tornadoes, power loss, fire, floods
and similar events, as well as from accidental loss or destruction. If any disaster were to occur, our ability to operate our business could be
seriously impaired. We have property, liability, and business interruption insurance which may not be adequate to cover our losses
resulting from disasters or other similar significant business interruptions, and we do not plan to purchase additional insurance to cover
such losses due to the cost of obtaining such coverage. Any significant losses that are not recoverable under our insurance policies could
seriously impair our business, financial condition and prospects.

Conversion of our outstanding convertible notes may result in losses, result in the dilution of existing stockholders, create downward
pressure on the price of our common stock, and restrict our ability to take advantage of future opportunities.

In August 2014, we issued $245.0 million principal amount of the 2019 Notes and in May 2018, we issued $750.0 million principle
amount of the 2023 Notes. The sale of the 2019 Notes and 2023 Notes may affect our earnings per share figures, as accounting procedures
require that we include in our calculation of earnings per share the number of shares of our common stock into which the 2019 Notes and
2023 Notes are convertible. The convertible notes may be converted into cash and shares of our common stock, if any (subject to our right
or obligation to pay cash in lieu of all or a portion of such shares). If shares of our common stock are issued to the holders of the convertible
notes upon conversion, there will be dilution to our shareholders equity and the market price of our shares may decrease due to the
additional selling pressure in the market. Any downward pressure on the price of our common stock caused by the sale or potential sale of
shares issuable upon conversion of the convertible notes could also encourage short sales by third parties, creating additional selling
pressure on our stock. Upon the occurrence of certain circumstances, holders of the convertible notes may require us to purchase all or a
portion of their notes for cash, which may require the use of a substantial amount of cash. In addition, we must use cash to settle the
principal and any premium due upon conversion of the 2019 Notes for any conversion notices received on or after May 22, 2018. If such
cash is not available, we may be required to sell other assets or enter into alternate financing arrangements at terms that may or may not be
desirable. The existence of the convertible notes and the obligations that we incurred by issuing them may restrict our ability to take
advantage of certain future opportunities, such as engaging in future debt or equity financing activities.

As of December 31, 2018, we had $27.3 million aggregate principal amount of 2019 Notes, and $750.0 million aggregate principal

amount of 2023 Notes. The notes are convertible into cash, and if applicable, shares of our common stock under certain circumstances,
including trading price conditions related to our common stock. Upon conversion, we are required to record a gain or loss for the difference
between the fair value of the notes to be extinguished and their corresponding net carrying value. The fair value of the notes to be
extinguished depends on our current incremental borrowing rate. If our incremental borrowing rate at the time of conversion is lower than
the implied interest rate of the notes, we will record a loss in our consolidated statement of income during the period in which the notes are
converted.

Impairment charges pertaining to goodwill, identifiable intangible assets or other long-lived assets from our mergers and acquisitions
could have an adverse impact on our results of operations and the market value of our common stock.

The total purchase price pertaining to our acquisitions in recent years of Vernalis, CyDex, Metabasis, Pharmacopeia, Neurogen,

OMT and Crystal have been allocated to net tangible assets, identifiable intangible assets, in-process research and development and
goodwill. To the extent the value of goodwill or identifiable intangible assets or other long-lived assets

31

  
become impaired, we will be required to incur material charges relating to the impairment. Any impairment charges could have a material
adverse impact on our results of operations and the market value of our common stock.

Our charter documents and concentration of ownership may hinder or prevent change of control transactions.

Provisions contained in our certificate of incorporation and bylaws may discourage transactions involving an actual or potential

change in our ownership. In addition, our Board of Directors may issue shares of common or preferred stock without any further action by
the stockholders. Our directors and certain of our institutional investors collectively beneficially own a significant portion of our
outstanding common stock. Such provisions and issuances may have the effect of delaying or preventing a change in our ownership. If
changes in our ownership are discouraged, delayed or prevented, it would be more difficult for our current Board of Directors to be
removed and replaced, even if you or our other stockholders believe that such actions are in the best interests of us and our stockholders.

Our stock price has been volatile and could experience a sudden decline in value.

The market prices for securities of biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies have historically been highly volatile, and the
market has recently experienced significant price and volume fluctuations that are unrelated to the operating performance of particular
companies. Continued volatility in the overall capital markets could reduce the market price of our common stock in spite of our operating
performance. Further, high stock price volatility could result in higher share-based compensation expense.

Our common stock has experienced significant price and volume fluctuations and may continue to experience volatility in the future.

Many factors may have a significant impact on the market price of our common stock, including, but not limited to, the following factors:
results of or delays in our preclinical studies and clinical trials; the success of our collaboration agreements; publicity regarding actual or
potential medical results relating to products under development by us or others; announcements of technological innovations or new
commercial products by us or others; developments in patent or other proprietary rights by us or others; comments or opinions by securities
analysts or major stockholders or changed securities analysts' reports or recommendations; future sales or shorting of our common stock by
existing stockholders; regulatory developments or changes in regulatory guidance; litigation or threats of litigation; economic and other
external factors or other disaster or crises; the departure of any of our officers, directors or key employees; period-to-period fluctuations in
financial results; and price and volume fluctuations in the overall stock market.

Our results of operations and liquidity needs could be materially negatively affected by market fluctuations and economic downturn.

Our results of operations could be materially negatively affected by economic conditions generally, both in the United States and

elsewhere around the world. Concerns over inflation, energy costs, geopolitical issues, the availability and cost of credit, and the U.S.
financial markets have in the past contributed to, and may continue in the future to contribute to, increased volatility and diminished
expectations for the economy and the markets. Domestic and international equity markets periodically experience heightened volatility and
turmoil. These events may have an adverse effect on us. In the event of a market downturn, our results of operations could be adversely
affected by those factors in many ways, including making it more difficult for us to raise funds if necessary, and our stock price may
further decline. We cannot provide assurance that our investments are not subject to adverse changes in market value. If our investments
experience adverse changes in market value, we may have less capital to fund our operations.

Item 1B.

Unresolved Staff Comments

None.

Item 2.

Properties

We currently lease premises consisting of approximately 5,000 square feet of office space in San Diego which serves as our corporate

headquarters. The lease expires in April 2023.

We lease approximately 1,500 square feet of laboratory space located at the Bioscience and Technology Business Center in

Lawrence, Kansas. The lease expires in December 2020.

32

 
We lease approximately 13,000 square feet of office and laboratory space located in Emeryville, California. The lease expires in

August 2021.

In connection with the Vernalis acquisition in October 2018, we lease approximately 28,000 square feet of office and laboratory space

located in Cambridge, United Kingdom. The lease expires in September 2019, and we are currently working with the landlord on potential
renewal options.

Item 3.

Legal Proceedings

See “Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data—Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—Note (9), Commitments

and Contingencies—Legal Proceedings.”

Item 4.

Mine Safety Disclosures

Not applicable.

PART II

Item 5.

Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters, and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

Our common stock is traded on the Nasdaq Global Market under the symbol “LGND.” As of February 15, 2019, there were

approximately 523 holders of record of the common stock.

Except for 2007, during which we declared a cash dividend on our common stock of $2.50 per share, we have not paid any dividends
on our common stock in the past and currently do not expect to pay cash dividends or make any other distributions on common stock in the
future. We expect to retain our future earnings, if any, for use in the operation and expansion of our business, to pay down debt and
potentially for share repurchases. Any future determination to pay dividends on common stock will be at the discretion of our board of
directors and will depend upon our financial condition, results of operations, capital requirements and such other factors as the board deems
relevant. 

The following table presents information regarding repurchases by us of our common stock during the three months ended

December 31, 2018 under the stock repurchase program approved by our board of directors in September 2018, under which we may
acquire up to $200 million of our common stock in open market and negotiated purchases for a period of up to three years. 

ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES

Total Number of
Shares Purchased

Average Price Paid
Per Share

$
— 
$
295,210 
208,038 
$
503,248    $

— 
152.83 
142.46 
148.54 

Total Number of
Shares Purchased as
Part of Publicly
Announced Plans or
Programs

Maximum Dollar Value of
Shares that May Yet Be
Purchased Under the 
 Program
(in thousands)

— 
295,210 
208,038 
503,248 

$
$
$

200,000 
154,883 
125,246 

October 1 - October 31, 2018
November 1 - November 30, 2018
December 1 - December 31, 2018
Total 

On January 23, 2019, the board of directors elected to increase the existing $200 million share repurchase program, authorizing us to
repurchase up to a maximum of $350 million of its outstanding common stock under the repurchase program. The repurchase program will
expire, as originally scheduled, on September 20, 2021. Since December 31, 2018 and as of February 28, 2019, we
acquired 400,177 additional shares during 2019, and the maximum dollar value of shares that may yet be purchased under the repurchase
program was $225.9 million.

33

 
  
   
   
 
In addition, in May 2018, we issued the 2023 Notes with an aggregate principal amount of $750.0 million. A portion of the proceeds

from such issuance totaling $49.7 million were used to repurchase 260,000 shares of our common stock.

The information required by Item 201(d) of Regulation S-K is incorporated by reference to the 2019 Annual Meeting Proxy

Statement as defined in Item 10 below.

Performance Graph

The graph below shows the five-year cumulative total stockholder return assuming the investment of $100 and is based on the returns

of the component companies weighted monthly according to their market capitalizations. The graph compares total stockholder returns of
our common stock, of all companies traded on the Nasdaq Stock market, as represented by the Nasdaq Composite® Index, and of the
Nasdaq Biotechnology Stock Index, as prepared by The Nasdaq Stock Market Inc.

The stockholder return shown on the graph below is not necessarily indicative of future performance and we will not make or endorse

any predictions as to future stockholder returns.

Ligand

NASDAQ Composite-Total Return
NASDAQ Biotechnology Index

12/31/2013

12/31/2014

12/31/2015

12/31/2016

12/31/2017

12/31/2018

$
$
$

100.00  $
100.00  $
100.00  $

101.16  $
114.75  $
134.40  $

206.12  $
122.74  $
150.22  $

193.17  $
133.62  $
118.15  $

260.32  $
173.22  $
143.74  $

257.98 
168.30 
131.00 

34

Item 6.

Selected Consolidated Financial Data

The following selected historical consolidated financial and other data are qualified by reference to, and should be read in
conjunction with, our consolidated financial statements and the related notes thereto appearing elsewhere herein and “Management’s
Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.” Our selected statement of operations data set forth below for
each of the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017, 2016, 2015 and 2014 and the balance sheet data as of December 31, 2018, 2017, 2016,
2015 and 2014 are derived from our consolidated financial statements.

2018

2017

2016

2015

2014

Year Ended December 31,

Consolidated Statements of Operations Data:
Royalties
Material sales
License fees, milestones, and other revenues
Total revenues
Cost of material sales
Amortization of intangibles
Research and development
General and administrative
Total operating costs and expenses
Income from operations
Income (loss) from continuing operations including
noncontrolling interests
Loss attributable to noncontrolling interests
Income (loss) from continuing operations
Discontinued operations
Net income (loss)
Basic per share amounts:

Income (loss) from continuing operations
Discontinued operations
Net income (loss)
Weighted average number of common shares-
basic

Diluted per share amounts:

Income (loss) from continuing operations
Discontinued operations
Net income (loss)
Weighted average number of common shares-
diluted

$

$

$

$

$

128,556  $
29,123 
93,774 
251,453 
6,337 
15,792 
27,863 
37,734 
87,726 
163,727 

143,321 
— 
143,321 
— 
143,321 

88,685  $
22,070 
30,347 
141,102 
5,366 
12,120 
26,887 
28,653 
73,026 
68,076 

(in thousands, except per share amounts)
38,194  $
27,662 
6,058 
71,914 
5,807 
2,375 
11,005 
25,398 
44,585 
27,329 

59,423  $
22,502 
27,048 
108,973 
5,571 
10,643 
21,221 
27,653 
65,088 
43,885 

12,556 
— 
12,556 
— 
12,556 

(2,367)
— 
(2,367)
731 
(1,636)

227,444 
(2,380)
229,824 
— 
229,824 

6.77  $
— 
6.77  $

0.60  $
— 
0.60  $

(0.11) $
0.04 
(0.08) $

11.61  $
— 
11.61  $

29,994 
28,488 
6,056 
64,538 
9,136 
2,375 
9,747 
23,654 
44,912 
19,626 

10,892 
(1,132)
12,024 
— 
12,024 

0.59 
— 
0.59 

21,160 

21,032 

20,831 

19,790 

20,419 

5.96  $
— 
5.96  $

0.53  $
— 
0.53  $

(0.11) $
0.04 
(0.08) $

10.83  $
— 
10.83  $

0.56 
— 
0.56 

24,067 

23,481 

20,831 

21,228 

21,433 

35

 
2018

2017

2016

2015

2014

(in thousands)

December 31,

Consolidated Balance Sheet Data:
Cash, cash equivalents, short-term investments,
restricted cash and investments
Working capital (deficit)
Total assets
Other long-term obligations (excludes long-term
portions of deferred revenue, net and deferred gain)
Total notes payable, net (including current portion)
Accumulated deficit
Total stockholders’ equity

$

767,188 
788,291 
1,260,803 

208,099  $
(1,847)
671,021 

149,393  $
(64,076)
601,585 

229,947  $
(8,109)
503,061 

7,776 
636,297 
(229,197)
560,914 

9,981 
224,529 
(400,924)
399,788 

3,603 
212,910 

341,290 

3,330 
201,985 
(429,491)
237,282 

168,597 
162,379 
258,029 

208,757 
195,908 
(659,315)
26,318 

Item 7.

Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

Our Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (MD&A) will help readers understand

our results of operations, financial condition, and cash flow. It is provided in addition to the accompanying consolidated financial
statements and notes. This MD&A is organized as follows:

•

•

Results of Operations. Detailed discussion of our revenue and expenses.

Liquidity and Capital Resources. Discussion of key aspects of our consolidated statements of cash flows, changes in our financial
position, and our financial commitments.

• Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements. We have no off-balance sheet arrangements.

•

•

•

Contractual Obligations. Tabular disclosure of known contractual obligations as of December 31, 2018.

Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates. Discussion of significant changes we believe are important to understand the
assumptions and judgments underlying our consolidated financial statements.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements. For summary of recent accounting pronouncements applicable to our consolidated financial
statements, see “Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data—Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—Note (1),
Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies.”

Results of Operations

Revenue
(Dollars in thousands)
Royalty Revenue
Material Sales
License fees, milestones and other
revenue

Total revenue

$

$

2018
128,556  $
29,123 

2017

Change

% Change

2016

Change

88,685  $
22,070 

39,871 
7,053 

45  % $
32  %

59,423  $
22,502 

29,262 
(432)

% Change
49  %
(2) %

93,774 
251,453  $

30,347 
141,102  $

63,427 
110,351 

209  %
78  % $

27,048 
108,973  $

3,299 
32,129 

12  %

29  %

We adopted ASC 606, the new revenue standard, in the first quarter of 2018 and now recognize royalties on sales of

products commercialized by our partners in the quarter the product is sold as opposed to on a one-quarter lag as previously recognized
under ASC 605, the legacy revenue standard. The results for the reporting periods beginning after January 1, 2018 are presented in
accordance with the new standard, although comparative information has not been restated and continues to be reported under the
accounting standards and policies in effect for those periods.

36

 
Royalty revenue is a function of our partners' product sales and the applicable royalty rate. Promacta and Kyprolis royalty rates

are under a tiered royalty rate structure with the highest tier being 9.4% and 3.0%, respectively. Evomela has a fixed royalty rate of 20%.

Total revenue for 2018 increased $110.4 million or 78% compared with 2017 and for 2017 it increased $32.1 million or 29%

compared with 2016.

Royalty revenue increased in each year presented primarily due to an increase in sales by our partners of Promacta and Kyprolis.

Material sales increased year over year in 2018 due to timing of customer purchases of Captisol for use in clinical trials and in
commercialized products. The increase in license fee, milestones and other revenues in 2018 compared to 2017 is primarily driven by a
$47.0 million OmniAb platform license fee received from WuXi and $20.0 million received from Roivant upon entering into the GRA
license agreement to develop and commercialize RVT-1502 (formerly named LGD-6972). The increase in license fees, milestones and
other revenues in 2017 compared to 2016 was primarily due to OmniAb license fees and milestone payments.

The following table represents royalty revenue by program under the new (ASC 606) and prior (ASC 605) revenue standard:

2018 Estimated
Partner
Product Sales 

Effective
Royalty Rate 

2018 Royalty
Revenue
under ASC
606 

2018 Product
Sales reported
on quarter lag 

Effective
Royalty Rate 

2018 Royalty
Revenue
under ASC
605 

2017 Product
Sales reported
on quarter lag 

Effective
Royalty Rate 

2017 Royalty
Revenue
under ASC
605 

1,173.4 

8.5  % $

980.5 

28.1 

163.5 

2,345.5 

2.2  %

20.0  %

1.2  %

99.3 

21.7 

5.7 

1.9 

$

1,098.4 

8.4  % $

947.5 

28.6 

162.0 

2.2  %

20.0  %

1.3  %

$

92.3 

20.9 

5.7 

2.1 

787.6 

817.0 

35.8 

155.7 

$

128.6 

$

2,236.5 

$

121.0 

$

1,796.1 

8.0  % $

2.0  %

20.0  %

1.4  %

$

62.9 

16.4 

7.2 

2.2 

88.7 

(in millions) 
Promacta 
Kyprolis 
Evomela 
Other 
Total 

$

$

Operating Costs and Expenses

(Dollars in thousands)
Cost of material sales
Amortization of intangibles
Research and development
General and administrative
Total operating costs and expenses

2018

2017

Change

% Change

2016

Change

$

$

6,337  $
15,792 
27,863 
37,734 
87,726  $

5,366  $
12,120 
26,887 
28,653 
73,026  $

971 
3,672 
976 
9,081 
14,700 

18  % $
30  %
4  %
32  %
20  % $

5,571  $
10,643 
21,221 
27,653 
65,088  $

(205)
1,477 
5,666 
1,000 
7,938 

% Change
(4) %
14  %
27  %
4  %
12  %

Total operating costs and expenses for 2018 increased $14.7 million or 20% compared with 2017, while total operating costs and

expenses as a percentage of revenue decreased in 2018 as compared to 2017. Cost of material sales increased year over year in 2018
primarily due to higher material sales as a result of timing of customer purchases. Amortization of intangibles increased year over year in
2018 due primarily due to the Crystal acquisition in the fourth quarter of 2017, the Vernalis acquisition in the fourth quarter of 2018 and
amortization of previous indefinite lived IPR&D assets that were out-licensed or impaired. General and administrative expenses increased
year over year in 2018 primarily due to increased business development activities, an increase in share-based compensation and the
Vernalis acquisition.

Total operating costs and expenses for 2017 increased $7.9 million or 12% compared with 2016, while the total operating costs and

expenses as a percentage of revenue decreased in 2017 as compared to 2016. Cost of material sales decreased year over year in 2017
primarily due to lower material sales as a result of timing of customer purchases. Amortization of intangibles increased year over year in
2017 due primarily to the acquisition of Crystal in October 2017. Research and development expenses and general and administrative
expenses increased year over year in 2017 due primarily to increased business development activities, timing of internal development costs
and increased share-based compensation expense and headcount related expenses associated with Crystal.

37

We do not provide forward-looking estimates of costs and time to complete our ongoing research and development projects as such

estimates would involve a high degree of uncertainty. Uncertainties include our inability to predict the outcome of research and clinical
studies, regulatory requirements placed upon us by regulatory authorities such as the FDA and EMA, our inability to predict the decisions
of our partners, our ability to fund research and development programs, competition from other entities of which we may become aware in
future periods, predictions of market potential for products that may be derived from our work, and our ability to recruit and retain
personnel or third-party contractors with the necessary knowledge and skills to perform certain research. Refer to “Item 1A. Risk Factors”
for additional discussion of the uncertainties surrounding our research and development initiatives.

Other income (expense)

(Dollars in thousands)
Gain (loss) from Viking
Interest income
Interest expense
Other (expense) income, net
Total other income (expense,) net $

2018

2017

Change

% Change

50,187 
13,999 
(48,276)
(6,307)
9,603  $

(2,048)
2,060 
(13,460)
2,603 
(10,845) $

52,235 
11,939 
(34,816)
(8,910)
20,448 

(2,551)%
580 %
259 %
(342)%
(189)% $

2016
(23,132)
664 
(12,842)
(615)
(35,925) $

Change

21,084 
1,396 
(618)
3,218 
25,080 

% Change
(91)%
210 %
5 %
(523)%

(70)%

In the first quarter of 2018, we discontinued accounting for our ownership interest in Viking common stock under the equity
method and now account for Viking as an equity security with changes in the fair value of Viking common stock recorded as "Gain (loss)
from Viking." The increase in gain (loss) from Viking is a result of a $42.4 million unrealized gain recorded in 2018. In addition, gain
(loss) from Viking in 2018 includes a realized gain of $2.5 million resulting from the sale of Viking shares as well as an unrealized gain
relating to an increase in the market value of Viking warrants held by us of $5.4 million. 

In 2017, we recorded a $4.7 million loss from Viking for our proportionate share of Viking’s losses based on our ownership of
Viking common stock and a $2.9 million gain on dilution resulting from Viking's financings. In 2016, we recorded a $5.0 million loss from
Viking for our proportionate share of Viking’s losses based on our ownership of Viking common stock and $10.7 million for loss on
dilution resulting from Viking's financing. Additionally, we recorded an impairment charge in 2016 of $7.4 million relating to our
investment in Viking.

Interest income consists primarily of short-term investment transactions and the change in fair market value of the investments. The

increase over the prior periods presented is due to the increase in our short-term investment balances which, in the current year, is a result of
the 2023 Notes financing on May 22, 2018.

Interest expense includes the 0.75% coupon cash interest expense in addition to the $44.0 million non-cash accretion of discount on
our 2019 Notes and 2023 Notes for the year ended December 31, 2018. The increase from prior year is primarily due to the issuance of the
2023 Notes in May 2018 and a $3.2 million loss on debt extinguishment resulting from the settlement of a portion of our 2019 Notes in
2018. See “Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data—Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—Note (6), Convertible
Senior Notes.”

The increase in Other income (expense), net, in 2018 as compared to the prior year is due primarily to the increase in the fair value of

contingent liabilities associated with our Metabasis acquisition and a net increase in our derivative instrument expense associated with our
convertible notes and hedge transactions. See “Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data—Notes to Consolidated Financial
Statements—Note (6), Convertible Senior Notes.” The year over year variance in Other expense (income), net, in 2017 as compared to 2016
is due to an increase in the fair value of the Viking note receivable and gain on the sale of short-term investments.

Income tax expense

38

(Dollars in thousands)
Income before income tax
expense
Income tax expense
Income (loss) from operations $
Effective Tax Rate

$

2018

2017

Change

% Change

2016

Change

% Change

173,330  $
(30,009)
143,321  $

57,231  $
(44,675)
12,556  $

116,099 
14,666 
130,765 

203 %
(33)%
1,041 %

$7,960 
(10,327)
$(2,367)

$

$

49,271 
(34,348)
14,923 

619 %
333 %
(630)%

17 

%

78 

%

130  %

Our effective tax rate for 2018, 2017 and 2016 was 17%, 78%, and 130%, respectively. Our tax rate is affected by recurring items,
such as the U.S. federal and state statutory tax rates and the relative amounts of income we earn in those jurisdictions, which we expect to
be fairly consistent in the near term. It is also affected by discrete items that may occur in any given year, but are not consistent from year
to year. In addition to state income taxes, the items below had the most significant impact on the difference between our statutory U.S.
income tax rate and our effective tax rate.

2018

•

•

•
•
•
•

$8.1 million (5%) decrease due to excess tax benefits from share-based compensation which are recorded as a discrete item
within the provision for income tax pursuant to ASU 2016-09
$4.2 million (2%) decrease due to changes in valuation allowance primarily relating to capital loss carryovers and research
and development tax credits.
$3.1 million (2%) increase from expired NOLs and credits
$2.8 million (2%) reduction from research and development tax credits
$0.9 million (1%) increase from non-cash contingent consideration charges that are nondeductible for tax purposes
$0.9 million (1%) increase from Section 162(m) limitation

2017

•

•

•

•
•
•

$32.4 million (55%) increase due to the provisional estimated impact of the Tax Act and primarily due to the impact of
revaluing our U.S. deferred tax assets and liabilities based on the statutory rates at which they are expected to be
recognized in the future, which for federal purposes was reduced from 35% to 21%
$4.0 million (7%) decrease due to excess tax benefits from share-based compensation which are recorded as a discrete item
within the provision for income tax pursuant to ASU 2016-09
$4.2 million (7%) reduction due to decrease in valuation allowance primarily relating to our Viking deferred tax asset and
change in corporate tax rates under the Tax Act
$2.8 million (5%) reduction from research and development tax credits
$1.3 million (2%) increase in uncertain tax positions
$0.9 million (2%) increase from non-cash contingent consideration charges that are nondeductible for tax purposes

2016

•
•
•
•

$6.3 million (79%) increase in valuation allowance primarily relating to Viking deferred tax asset
$1.4 million (18%) increase in uncertain tax positions
$1.2 million (15%) increase from non-cash contingent consideration charges that are nondeductible for tax purposes
$1.5 million (19%) reduction from research and development credits

Discontinued operations

In 2006, we entered into a purchase agreement with Eisai pursuant to which Eisai agreed to acquire our Oncology product line which

included four marketed oncology drugs: ONTAK, Targretin capsules, Targretin gel and Panretin gel. Certain liabilities were recorded
associated with the disposal of the product line. During the year ended December 31, 2016, we recognized a $1.1 million gain due to
subsequent changes in certain estimates and liabilities previously recorded. We recorded a provision for income taxes related to the gain of
$0.4 million.

39

  
Liquidity and Capital Resource

At December 31, 2018, we had approximately $117.2 million in cash and cash equivalents, of which approximately $7.5 million was
held by our foreign subsidiaries. Cash and cash equivalents increased by $96.5 million from last year, due to factors described in the "Cash
Flow Summary" below. Our primary source of liquidity, other than our holdings of cash, cash equivalents, and investments, has been cash
flows from operations. Our ability to generate cash from operations provides us with the financial flexibility we need to meet operating,
investing, and financing needs.

Historically, we have liquidated our short-term investments and/or issued debt and equity securities to finance our business needs as

a supplement to cash provided by operating activities. As of December 31, 2018, we had $601.2 million in short-term investments. Our
short-term investments include U.S. government debt securities, investment-grade corporate debt securities and certificates of deposit. We
have established guidelines relative to diversification and maturities of our investments in order to provide both safety and liquidity. These
guidelines are periodically reviewed and modified to take advantage of trends in yields and interest rates. Additionally, we own certain
securities which are classified as short-term investments that we received as a result of a milestone and an upfront license payment as well
as 6.0 million shares in Viking.

In August 2014, we issued the 2019 Notes with aggregate principal amount of $245.0 million. During 2018, $217.7 million in

principal of the 2019 Notes were converted and $27.3 million in principal remained outstanding as of December 31, 2018, which will be
paid off in cash upon the due date.

In May 2018, we issued the 2023 Notes with an aggregate principal amount of $750.0 million. A portion of the proceeds from such
issuance totaling $49.7 million were used to repurchase 260,000 shares of our common stock. The 2023 Notes were not convertible as of
December 31, 2018. It is our intent and policy to settle conversions through combination settlement, which essentially involves payment in
cash equal to the principal portion and delivery of shares of common stock for the excess of the conversion value over the principal portion.

We anticipate that our current cash, cash equivalents, and short-term investments, together with cash provided by operating activities
are sufficient to fund our near term capital and operating needs for at least the next 12 months. Operating needs include the planned costs to
operate our business, including amounts required to fund working capital and capital expenditures. Our primary short-term needs for
capital, which are subject to change, include:

•
•
•
•
•

potential early repayment of debt obligations as a result of conversions;
repurchases of our outstanding common stock;
the continued advancement of research and development efforts;
potential strategic acquisitions and investments; and
the expansion needs of our facilities, including costs of leasing additional facilities.

As of December 31, 2018, we had $12.5 million in fair value of contingent consideration liabilities associated with prior acquisitions

to be settled in future periods.

During 2018, we used $77.8 million to repurchase 522,248 of our outstanding shares under the stock repurchase programs authorized

by our Board of Directors. As of December 31, 2018, there remains $125.2 million under the authorized program. See “Item 5. Market for
Registrant's Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters, and Issuer Purchase of Equity Securities.”

Cash Flow Summary
(in thousands)
Net cash provided by (used in):
Operating activities
Investing activities
Financing activities

2018

2017

2016

$

194,059  $
(423,269)
328,585 

88,570  $
(79,179)
(7,523)

60,733 
(134,415)
(4,994)

In 2018, we generated cash from operations, from issuance of the 2023 Notes and associated warrants, and from issuance of common

stock under employee stock plans. During the same period we used cash for investing activities, including the acquisition of commercial
rights, net purchases of short-term investments, payments made to acquire Vernalis, payments to CVR holders and capital expenditures. We
also used cash for financing activities, including principal payments related to

40

conversions of the 2019 Notes, payments to purchase the bond hedge associated with the 2023 Notes, payments for taxes related to net
share settlement of equity awards and to repurchase shares of our common stock.

In 2017, we generated cash from operations and from issuance of common stock under employee stock plans. During the same

period we used cash for investing activities, including net purchases of short-term investments, payments made to acquire Crystal,
payments to CVR holders and capital expenditures. We also used cash to pay taxes related to net share settlement of equity awards and to
repurchase shares of our common stock.

In 2016, we generated cash from operations and from issuance of common stock under employee stock plans. During the same

period we used cash for investing activities, including net purchases of short-term investments, payments made to acquire OMT,
commercial license rights from Cormatrix, Viking common stock and shares of an equity method investee, payments to CVR holders and
capital expenditures. We also used cash to pay taxes related to net share settlement of equity awards and to repurchase shares of our
common stock.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

We do not participate in any transactions that generate relationships with unconsolidated entities or financial partnerships, such as

entities often referred to as structured finance or special purpose entities, which would have been established for the purpose of facilitating
off-balance sheet arrangements or other contractually narrow or limited purposes. During the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, we
were not involved in any “off-balance sheet arrangements” within the meaning of the rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission.

We lease our office facilities under operating lease arrangements with varying terms through April 2023. The agreements provide for
increases in annual rents based on changes in the Consumer Price Index or fixed percentage increases of 3.0%. We had no off-balance sheet
arrangements at December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016.

Contractual Obligations

As of December 31, 2018, future minimum payments due under our contractual obligations are as follows (in thousands):

Purchase obligations (1)
Notes payable (2)
Operating lease obligations (3)

$
$
$

12,754  $
803,211  $
2,963  $

6,164  $
33,758  $
1,620  $

6,590  $
11,250  $
1,145  $

—  $
758,203  $
198  $

— 
— 
— 

Total

Less than 1 year

1-2 years

3-4 years

Thereafter

Payments Due by Period

  (1)  Amounts represent our commitments under our supply agreement with Hovione for Captisol purchases.
 (2)  Amounts represent contractual amounts due under our convertible senior notes, including interest based on the fixed rate of 0.75% per year.
 (3)  We lease an office and research facility, which we have fully vacated under operating lease arrangements expiring on June 2019. We sublet these facilities through the end

of our lease. As of December 31, 2018, we expect to receive aggregate future minimum lease payments totaling $0.4 million (non-discounted) over the duration of the
sublease agreement, which are not included in the table above. 

Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires estimates and assumptions that affect the reported
amounts of assets and liabilities, revenues and expenses, and related disclosures of contingent liabilities in the consolidated financial
statements and accompanying notes. The SEC has defined a company’s critical accounting policies as the ones that are most important to
the portrayal of the company’s financial condition and results of operations, and which require the company to make its most difficult and
subjective judgments, often as a result of the need to make estimates of matters that are inherently uncertain. Based on this definition, we
have identified the critical accounting policies and judgments addressed below. We also have other key accounting policies, which involve
the use of estimates, judgments, and assumptions that are significant to understanding our results. For additional information, see “Item 8.
Financial Statements and Supplementary Data—Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—Note (1), Basis of Presentation and
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies.” Although we believe that our estimates, assumptions, and judgments are reasonable, they are
based upon information presently available. Actual results may differ significantly from these estimates under different assumptions,
judgments, or conditions.

41

 
 
 
Revenue Recognition

On January 1, 2018, we adopted ASC 606, which amends the guidance for recognition of revenue from contracts with customers

using the modified-retrospective method applied to those contracts that were not completed as of January 1, 2018. We apply the following
five-stop model in order to determine the revenue: (i) identification of the promised goods or services in the contract; (ii) determination of
whether the promised goods or services are performance obligations, including whether
they are distinct in the context of the contract; (iii) measurement of the transaction price, including the constraint on variable consideration;
(iv) allocation of the transaction price to the performance obligations; and (v) recognition of revenue when (or as) the Company satisfies
each performance obligation.

We receive royalty revenue on sales by our partners of products covered by patents that we or our partners own under the contractual

agreements. We do not have future performance obligations under these license arrangements. We generally satisfy our obligation to grant
intellectual property rights on the effective date of the contract. However, we apply the royalty recognition constraint required under the
guidance for sales-based royalties which requires a sales-based royalty to be recorded no sooner than the underlying sale. Therefore,
royalties on sales of products commercialized by our partners are recognized in the quarter the product is sold. Our partners generally
report sales information to us on a one quarter lag. Thus, we estimate the expected royalty proceeds based on an analysis of historical
experience and interim data provided by our partners including their publicly announced sales. Differences between actual and estimated
royalty revenues are adjusted for in the period in which they become known, typically the following quarter.

Our contracts with customers often will include future contingent milestone based payments. We include contingent milestone based

payments in the estimated transaction price when there is a basis to reasonably estimate the amount of the payment. These estimates are
based on historical experience, anticipated results and our best judgment at the time. If the contingent milestone based payment is sales-
based, we apply the royalty recognition constraint and record revenue when the underlying sale has taken place. Significant judgments
must be made in determining the transaction price for our sales of intellectual property. Because of the risk that products in development
with our partners will not reach development based milestones or receive regulatory approval, we generally recognize any contingent
payments that would be due to us upon or after the development milestone or regulatory approval.

Revenue from material sales is recognized when control of Captisol material or intellectual property license rights is transferred to
our customers in an amount that reflects the consideration we expect to receive from our customers in exchange for those products. This
process involves identifying the contract with a customer, determining the performance obligations in the contract, determining the
contract price, allocating the contract price to the distinct performance obligations in the contract, and recognizing revenue when the
performance obligations have been satisfied. A performance obligation is considered distinct from other obligations in a contract when it
provides a benefit to the customer either on its own or together with other resources that are readily available to the customer and is
separately identified in the contract. We consider a performance obligation satisfied once we have transferred control of the product,
meaning the customer has the ability to use and obtain the benefit of the Captisol material or intellectual property license right. We
recognize revenue for satisfied performance obligations only when we determine there are no uncertainties regarding payment terms or
transfer of control. Sales tax and other taxes we collect concurrent with revenue-producing activities are excluded from revenue. We
expense incremental costs of obtaining a contract when incurred if the expected amortization period of the asset that we would have
recognized is one year or less or the amount is immaterial. We did not incur any incremental costs of obtaining a contract during the
periods reported.

Depending on the terms of the arrangement, we may also defer a portion of the consideration received because we have to satisfy a
future obligation. We use an observable price to determine the stand-alone selling price for separate performance obligations or a cost plus
margin approach when one is not available. We have elected to recognize the cost for freight and shipping when control over Captisol
material has transferred to the customer as an expense in cost of material sales.

We occasionally have sub-license obligations related to arrangements for which we receive license fees, milestones and royalties.

We evaluate the determination of gross as a principal versus net as an agent reporting based on each individual agreement.

Intangible Assets and Other Long-Lived Assets — Impairment Assessments

We regularly perform reviews to determine if the carrying values of our long-lived assets are impaired. A review of identifiable
intangible assets and other long-lived assets is performed when an event occurs indicating the potential for impairment. If indicators of
impairment exist, we first assess the impairment evaluation and then assess the recoverability of the affected long-lived assets and compare
their fair values to the respective carrying amounts if needed. An impairment evaluation

42

is based on an undiscounted cash flow analysis at the lowest level at which cash flows of the long-lived assets are largely independent of
other groups of assets and liabilities.

In order to estimate the fair value of identifiable intangible assets and other long-lived assets, we estimate the present value of future

cash flows from those assets. The key assumptions that we use in our discounted cash flow model are the amount and timing of estimated
future cash flows to be generated by the asset over an extended period of time and a rate of return that considers the relative risk of
achieving the cash flows, the time value of money, and other factors that a willing market participant would consider. Significant judgment
is required to estimate the amount and timing of future cash flows and the relative risk of achieving those cash flows.

Assumptions and estimates about future values and remaining useful lives are complex and often subjective. They can be affected

by a variety of factors, including external factors such as industry and economic trends, and internal factors such as changes in our business
strategy and our internal forecasts. For example, if our future operating results do not meet current forecasts or if we experience a sustained
decline in our market capitalization that is determined to be indicative of a reduction in fair value of our reporting unit, we may be required
to record future impairment charges for purchased intangible assets. Impairment charges could materially decrease our future net income
and result in lower asset values on our balance sheet.

Contingent Liabilities

In October 2017, we acquired Crystal for total cash consideration of $27.2 million, plus contingent consideration of up to an

additional $10.5 million over a five year period following the acquisition date based on certain research milestones and a portion of the
payments that we receive from a specified part of the historical Crystal business. The contingent consideration is measured at fair value
using an income approach valuation technique, specifically with probability weighted and discounted cash flows. The fair value of the
liability is assessed at each reporting date and the change in fair value is recorded in our consolidated statements of operations. The
carrying amount of the liability may fluctuate significantly and actual amounts paid may be materially different than the carrying amount
of the liability. The fair value of the contingent consideration liability as of December 31, 2018 was $8.4 million.

In connection with our acquisition of CyDex in January 2011, we recorded contingent liabilities for amounts potentially due to
holders of the CyDex CVRs and certain other contingency payments. The fair value of the liability is assessed at each reporting date using
the income approach incorporating the estimated future cash flows from potential milestones and revenue sharing. The change in fair value
is recorded in our consolidated statements of operations. The carrying amount of the liability may fluctuate significantly and actual
amounts paid may be materially different than the carrying amount of the liability.

In connection with our acquisition of Metabasis in January 2010, we issued Metabasis stockholders four tradable CVRs, one CVR

from each of four respective series of CVR, for each Metabasis share. The CVRs entitle Metabasis stockholders to cash payments as
proceeds are received by us from the sale or partnering of any of the Metabasis drug development programs. The fair values of the CVRs
are remeasured at each reporting date through the term of the related agreement. Changes in the fair values are reported in the statement of
operations as income (decreases) or expense (increases). The carrying amount of the liability may fluctuate significantly based upon quoted
market prices and actual amounts paid under the agreements may be materially different than the carrying amount of the liability.

See additional information in “Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data—Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

—Note (4), Fair Value Measurement.”

Income Taxes  

Our provision for income taxes, deferred tax assets and liabilities, and reserves for unrecognized tax benefits reflect our best
assessment of estimated future taxes to be paid. Significant judgments and estimates based on interpretations of existing tax laws or
regulations in the United States are required in determining our provision for income taxes. Changes in tax laws, statutory tax rates, and
estimates of our future taxable income could impact the deferred tax assets and liabilities provided for in the consolidated financial
statements and would require an adjustment to the provision for income taxes.

Deferred tax assets are regularly assessed to determine the likelihood they will be recovered from future taxable income. A valuation

allowance is established when we believe it is more likely than not the future realization of all or some of a deferred tax asset will not be
achieved. In evaluating our ability to recover deferred tax assets within the jurisdiction which they arise, we consider all available positive
and negative evidence. Factors reviewed include the cumulative pre-tax book income for the past three years, scheduled reversals of
deferred tax liabilities, our history of earnings and reliability of our forecasts, projections of pre-tax book income over the foreseeable
future, and the impact of any feasible and prudent tax planning strategies.

43

We recognize the impact of a tax position in our financial statements only if that position is more likely than not of being sustained
upon examination by taxing authorities, based on the technical merits of the position. Tax authorities regularly examine our returns in the
jurisdictions in which we do business and we regularly assess the tax risk of our return filing positions. Due to the complexity of some of
the uncertainties, the ultimate resolution may result in payments that are materially different from our current estimate of the tax liability.
These differences, as well as any interest and penalties, will be reflected in the provision for income taxes in the period in which they are
determined.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

For the summary of recent accounting pronouncements applicable to our consolidated financial statements, see “Item 8. Financial

Statements and Supplementary Data—Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—Note (1), Basis of Presentation and Summary of
Significant Accounting Policies.”

Item 7A.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

We are exposed to market risk from interest rates and equity prices which could affect our results of operations, financial condition

and cash flows. We manage our exposure to these market risks through our regular operating and financing activities.

Investment Portfolio Risk

At December 31, 2018, our investment portfolio included investments in available-for-sale equity securities of $601.2 million and

investment in Viking common stock of $46.2 million . These securities are subject to market risk and may decline in value based on market
conditions.

Equity Price Risk

Our 2019 Notes include conversion and settlement provisions that are based on the price of our common stock at conversion or
maturity of the notes, as applicable. The minimum amount of cash we may be required to pay is $245.0 million, but will ultimately be
determined by the price of our common stock. The fair values of our 2019 Notes are dependent on the price and volatility of our common
stock and will generally increase or decrease as the market price of our common stock changes. In order to minimize the impact of potential
dilution to our common stock upon the conversion of the 2019 Notes, we entered into convertible bond hedges covering 3,264,643 shares
of our common stock. Concurrently with entering into the convertible bond hedge transactions, we entered into warrant transactions
whereby we sold warrants with an exercise price of approximately $125.08 per share, subject to adjustment. During 2018, we received
notices for conversion of $217.7 million, which were all settled as of December 31, 2018. Throughout the term of the 2019 Notes, the notes
may have a dilutive effect on our earnings per share to the extent the stock price exceeds the conversion price of the notes. Additionally,
the warrants may have a dilutive effect on our earnings per share to the extent the stock price exceeds the strike price of the warrants.

Our 2023 Notes include conversion and settlement provisions that are based on the price of our common stock at conversion or

maturity of the notes, as applicable. As of December 31, 2018, the “if-converted value” did not exceed the principal amount of the 2023
Notes. See detail in “Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data—Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—Note (6),
Convertible Senior Notes.”

Foreign Currency Risk

Through our licensing and business operations, together with our recent acquisition of Vernalis, we are exposed to foreign currency

risk. Foreign currency exposures arise from transactions denominated in a currency other than the functional currency and from foreign
denominated revenues and profit translated into U.S. dollars. Our license partners sell our products worldwide in currencies other than the
U.S. dollar. Because of this, our revenues from royalty payments are subject to risk from changes in exchange rates.

We purchase Captisol from Hovione, located in Lisbon, Portugal. Payments to Hovione are denominated and paid in U.S. dollars;
however, the unit price of Captisol contains an adjustment factor which is based on the sharing of foreign currency risk between the two
parties. The effect of an immediate 10% change in foreign exchange rates would not have a material impact on our financial condition,
results of operations or cash flows. We do not currently hedge our exposures to foreign currency fluctuations.

44

Interest Rate Risk

We are exposed to market risk involving rising interest rates. To the extent interest rates rise, our interest costs could increase. An

increase in interest costs of 10% would not have a material impact on our financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.

45

Item 8.

Consolidated Financial Statements and Supplementary Data

INDEX TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
Consolidated Balance Sheets
Consolidated Statements of Operations
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Consolidated Statements of Stockholders’ Equity
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

46

Page
47
48
49
50
52
52
54

 
The Board of Directors and Stockholders of Ligand Pharmaceuticals Incorporated

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

Opinion on the Financial Statements

We  have  audited  the  accompanying  consolidated  balance  sheets  of  Ligand  Pharmaceuticals  Incorporated (the  Company)  as  of
December  31,  2018  and  2017,  the  related  consolidated  statements  of  operations,  comprehensive  income  (loss),  stockholders‘  equity  and
cash  flows  for  each  of  the  three  years  in  the  period  ended  December  31,  2018,  and  the  related  notes  (collectively  referred  to  as  the
“consolidated  financial  statements”).  In  our  opinion,  the  consolidated  financial  statements  present  fairly,  in  all  material  respects,  the
financial position of the Company at December 31, 2018 and 2017, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three
years in the period ended December 31, 2018, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.

We  also  have  audited,  in  accordance  with  the  standards  of  the  Public  Company Accounting  Oversight  Board  (United  States)
(PCAOB),  the  Company’s  internal  control  over  financial  reporting  as  of  December  31,  2018,  based  on  criteria  established  in  Internal
Control-Integrated  Framework  issued  by  the  Committee  of  Sponsoring  Organizations  of  the  Treadway  Commission  (2013  Framework),
and our report dated February 28, 2019 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.

Adoption of ASU No. 2014-09

As discussed in Note 1 to the consolidated financial statements, the Company changed its method of accounting for recognizing
revenue due to the adoption of Accounting Standards Update (ASU) 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606), and
the amendments in ASUs 2015-14, 2016-10, and 2016-12, effective January 1, 2018.

Adoption of ASU No. 2016-01

As  discussed  in  Note  1  to  the  consolidated  financial  statements,  the  Company  changed  its  method  of  accounting  for  financial
instruments due to the adoption of Accounting Standards Update (ASU) 2016-01, Financial Instruments- Recognition and Measurement of
Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities, effective January 1, 2018.

Adoption of ASU No. 2016-09

As discussed in Note 1 to the consolidated financial statements, the Company changed its method of accounting for share-based
payment  transactions  in  2017  due  to  the  adoption  of  the  amendments  to  the  FASB Accounting  Standards  Codification  resulting  from
Accounting Standards Update (ASU) No. 2016-09, Compensation - Stock Compensation (Topic 718): Improvements to Employee Share-
Based Payment Accounting, effective January 1, 2017.

Basis for Opinion

These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the
Company‘s financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be
independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the
Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the
audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud.
Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or
fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the
amounts  and  disclosures  in  the  financial  statements.  Our  audits  also  included  evaluating  the  accounting  principles  used  and  significant
estimates  made  by  management,  as  well  as  evaluating  the  overall  presentation  of  the  financial  statements.  We  believe  that  our  audits
provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

47

/s/ Ernst & Young LLP

We have served as the Company‘s auditor since 2016.

San Diego, California
February 28, 2019

48

LIGAND PHARMACEUTICALS INCORPORATED

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(in thousands, except share data)

ASSETS

December 31,

2018

2017

Current assets:

Cash and cash equivalents

Short-term investments
Investment in Viking
Accounts receivable, net
Note receivable from Viking
Inventory
Derivative asset
Other current assets

Total current assets

Deferred income taxes, net
Investment in Viking
Intangible assets, net
Goodwill
Commercial license rights
Property and equipment, net
Other assets

Total assets

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

Current liabilities:

Accounts payable
Accrued liabilities
Current contingent liabilities

Deferred revenue  
Derivative liability 

2019 convertible senior notes, net

Total current liabilities

2023 convertible senior notes, net
Long-term contingent liabilities
Other long-term liabilities

Total liabilities

$

$

$

117,164  $
601,217 
46,191 
55,850 
— 
7,124 
22,576 
20,418 

870,540 
46,521 
— 
219,793 
86,646 
31,460 
5,372 
471 

1,260,803  $

4,183  $
19,200 
5,717 
3,286 
23,430 

26,433 

82,249 
609,864 
6,825 
951 

699,889 

20,620 
181,041 
— 
25,596 
3,877 
4,373 
— 
1,514 

237,021 
84,422 
6,438 
228,584 
85,959 
19,526 
4,212 
4,859 

671,021 

2,259 
7,377 
4,703 
— 
— 

224,529 

238,868 
— 
9,258 
4,248 

252,374 

Commitments and contingencies
Equity component of currently redeemable convertible notes (Note 6)

Stockholders’ equity:

Common stock, $0.001 par value; 60,000,000 and 33,333,333 shares authorized; 20,765,533 and 21,148,665

shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively

Additional paid-in capital
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
Accumulated deficit

Total stockholders’ equity

Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity

— 

18,859 

21 
791,114 
(1,024)
(229,197)

560,914 

$

1,260,803  $

21 
798,205 
2,486 
(400,924)

399,788 

671,021 

See accompanying notes to these consolidated financial statements.

49

 
LIGAND PHARMACEUTICALS INCORPORATED

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(in thousands, except per share amounts)

Revenues:

Royalties
Material sales
License fees, milestones and other revenues

Total revenues

Operating costs and expenses:

Cost of material sales

Amortization of intangibles
Research and development
General and administrative

Total operating costs and expenses

Income from operations

Other income (expense):
Gain (loss) from Viking
Interest income
Interest expense
Other income (expense), net
Total other income (expense), net

Income before income tax expense

Income tax expense
Income (loss) from operations

Discontinued operations:

Gain on sale of Oncology Product Line before income taxes
Income tax expense on discontinued operations
Income from discontinued operations

Net income (loss):

Basic per share amounts(1):

Income (loss) from continuing operations
Income from discontinued operations
Net income (loss)

Diluted per share amounts(1):

Income (loss) from continuing operations
Income from discontinued operations
Net income (loss)

Weighted average common shares outstanding:
Basic
Diluted

$

$

$

$

$

$

Year Ended December 31,

2018

2017

2016

128,556  $
29,123 
93,774 

251,453 

88,685  $
22,070 
30,347 

141,102 

6,337 
15,792 
27,863 
37,734 

87,726 

163,727 

50,187 
13,999 
(48,276)
(6,307)

9,603 

173,330 
(30,009)

143,321 

— 
— 

— 

5,366 
12,120 
26,887 
28,653 

73,026 

68,076 

(2,048)
2,060 
(13,460)
2,603 

(10,845)

57,231 
(44,675)

12,556 

— 
— 

— 

143,321  $

12,556  $

6.77  $
— 

6.77  $

5.96  $
— 

5.96  $

0.60  $
— 

0.60  $

0.53  $
— 

0.53  $

59,423 
22,502 
27,048 

108,973 

5,571 
10,643 
21,221 
27,653 

65,088 

43,885 

(23,132)
664 
(12,842)
(615)

(35,925)

7,960 
(10,327)

(2,367)

1,139 
(408)

731 

(1,636)

(0.11)
0.04 

(0.08)

(0.11)
0.04 

(0.08)

21,160 
24,067 

21,032 
23,481 

20,831 
20,831 

(1) The sum of net income per share amounts may not equal the total due to rounding

See accompanying notes to these consolidated financial statements.

50

 
LIGAND PHARMACEUTICALS INCORPORATED
 CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)
(in thousands)

Net income (loss)

Unrealized net gain on available-for-sale securities, net of tax
Foreign currency translation

Less: Reclassification of net realized gains included in net income (loss), net of tax

Comprehensive income (loss)

Year Ended December 31,

2018

2017

2016

$

$

143,321  $
73 
(921)
— 
142,473  $

12,556  $
143 
— 
(400)
12,299  $

(1,636)
93 
— 
(2,253)
(3,796)

See accompanying notes to these consolidated financial statements.

51

LIGAND PHARMACEUTICALS INCORPORATED

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
(in thousands, except share data)

Balance at January 1, 2016

Issuance of common stock under employee stock
compensation plans, net
Shares issued in OMT acquisition
Reclassification of equity component of currently
redeemable convertible notes
Share-based compensation
Repurchase of common stock
Other comprehensive loss
Net loss
Balance at December 31, 2016

Issuance of common stock under employee stock
compensation plans, net
Reclassification of equity component of currently
redeemable convertible notes

Share-based compensation
Repurchase of common stock
Other comprehensive loss
Cumulative-effect adjustment from adoption of ASU
2016-09
Net income
Balance at December 31, 2017
Issuance of common stock under employee stock
compensation plans, net
Reclassification of equity component of currently
redeemable convertible notes
Share-based compensation
Repurchase of common stock
Other comprehensive income
Cumulative-effect adjustment from adoption of ASU
2016-01
Cumulative-effect adjustment from adoption of ASU
2014-09, net of tax
Derivative associated with 2019 Notes and Bond
Hedge
Loss on settlement of 2019 Notes
Warrant repurchase in connection with 2019 Notes
Loss on repurchase of warrants in connection with
2019 Notes
Tax effect on 2019 Notes transactions
Derivative associated with 2023 Notes and Bond
Hedge
Warrant derivative in connection with 2023 Notes
Tax effect for 2023 Notes transactions
Foreign currency translation adjustment
Other tax adjustments
Net income
Balance at December 31, 2018

Common Stock

Shares

Amount

Additional
paid-in
capital

Accumulated
other
comprehensive
income (loss)

Accumulated
deficit

Total
stockholders’
equity

19,949,012  $

20  $

661,850  $

4,903  $

(429,491)

$

237,282 

210,626 
790,163 

— 
— 
(40,500)
— 
— 

— 
1 

— 
— 
— 
— 
— 

5,416 
77,330 

10,065 
18,893 
(3,901)
— 
— 

— 
— 

— 
— 
— 
(2,160)
— 

— 
— 

— 
— 
— 
— 
(1,636)

5,416 
77,331 

10,065 
18,893 
(3,901)
(2,160)
(1,636)

20,909,301  $

21  $

769,653  $

2,743  $

(431,127)

$

341,290 

253,364 

— 
— 
(14,000)
— 

— 
— 

— 

— 
— 
— 
— 

— 
— 

(5,558)

— 

10,704 
24,916 
(1,966)
— 

456 
— 

— 
— 
— 
(257)

— 
— 

— 

— 
— 
— 
— 

17,647  — 
12,556 

21,148,665  $

21  $

798,205  $

2,486  $

(400,924)

$

399,116 

— 
— 
(782,248)
— 

— 

— 

— 
— 
— 

— 
— 

— 
— 
— 
— 
— 
— 

— 

— 
— 
— 
— 

— 

— 

— 
— 
— 

— 
— 

— 
— 
— 
— 
— 
— 

16,417 

18,859 
20,846 
(127,481)
— 

— 

— 

(1,559)
3,187 
(30,472)

1,792 
(1,680)

(1,807)
97,805 
(3,181)
— 
183 
— 

— 

— 
— 
— 
73 

(2,662)

— 

— 
— 
— 

— 
— 

— 
— 
— 
(921)
— 
— 

— 

— 
— 
— 

2,662 

25,581 

— 
— 
— 

— 
— 

— 
— 
— 
— 
163 
143,321 

20,765,533  $

21  $

791,114  $

(1,024)

$

(229,197)

$

(5,558)

10,704 
24,916 
(1,966)
(257)

18,103 
12,556 

399,788 

16,417 

18,859 
20,846 
(127,481)
73 

— 

25,581 

(1,559)
3,187 
(30,472)

1,792 
(1,680)

(1,807)
97,805 
(3,181)
(921)
346 
143,321 

560,914 

See accompanying notes to these consolidated financial statements.

52

LIGAND PHARMACEUTICALS INCORPORATED

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(in thousands)

Year Ended December 31,

2018

2017
(Revised)*

2016
(Revised)*

Operating activities
Net income (loss)
Less: income from discontinued operations
Income (loss) from continuing operations

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:

Change in estimated fair value of contingent liabilities
Realized gain on sale of short-term investment
Depreciation and amortization
(Gain) loss on equity investment in Viking
Change in fair value of the convertible debt receivable from Viking and warrants
Amortization of premium (discount) on investments, net

Amortization of debt discount and issuance fees
Share-based compensation
Deferred income taxes, net
Royalties recorded in retained earnings upon adoption of ASC 606
Change in derivative asset and liability fair value
Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of acquisitions:

Accounts receivable, net
Inventory
Other current assets
Other long term assets
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
Contingent liabilities
Deferred revenue

Net cash provided by operating activities

Investing activities
Purchase of commercial license rights
Purchase of Viking common stock and warrant
Purchase of common stock in equity method investment

Cash paid for acquisition, net of cash acquired

Payments to CVR holders and other contingency payments
Purchases of property and equipment
Purchases of short-term investments
Proceeds from sale of short-term investments
Proceeds from maturity of short-term investments
Proceeds from commercial license rights

Proceeds received from repayment of Viking note receivable

Net cash used in investing activities

Financing activities
Repayment of debt
Gross proceeds from issuance of 2023 Convertible Senior Notes
Payment of debt issuance costs
Proceeds from issuance of warrants
Purchase of convertible bond hedge
Proceeds from bond hedge settlement
Payments to convert holders for bond conversion
Net proceeds from stock option exercises and ESPP

53

$

143,321  $
— 

143,321 

12,556  $
— 

12,556 

3,448 
(2,611)
14,718 
(42,346)
(5,411)

(5,452)
43,954 
20,846 
29,739 
32,707 
2,931 

(29,544)
(2,559)
(868)
728 
(4,542)
(3,842)
(1,158)

194,059 

(10,000)
— 

— 

(5,856)
(1,000)
(887)
(1,434,255)
131,942 
892,873 

2,580 
(831)
11,714 
2,048 
(4,032)

(81)
11,619 
24,915 
44,518 
— 
— 

(8,358)
(843)
402 
— 
(1,713)
(4,998)
(926)

88,570 

— 
— 

— 

(26,653)
— 
(2,156)
(254,258)
86,985 
109,649 

— 

7,054 

3,914 

(423,269)

(217,674)
750,000 
(16,900)
90,000 
(140,250)
439,559 
(439,581)
20,183 

200 

(79,179)

— 
— 
— 
— 
— 
— 
— 
4,517 

(1,636)
731 

(2,367)

3,334 
(2,352)
11,290 
23,132 
(462)

348 
10,925 
18,893 
10,697 
— 
— 

(8,525)
(244)
526 
183 
(2,369)
(2,268)
(8)

60,733 

(17,695)
(700)

(1,000)

(92,502)
— 
(1,850)
(164,438)
24,596 
118,874 

— 

300 

(134,415)

— 
— 
— 
— 
— 
— 
— 
6,415 

Taxes paid related to net share settlement of equity awards

Share repurchases
Repurchase of warrants

Payments to CVR Holders

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash

Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at beginning of year
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at end of year

Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information
Cash paid during the year:
Interest paid
Taxes paid
Supplemental schedule of non-cash investing and financing activities
Stock issued for acquisition, net of issuance cost

Stock and warrant received for repayment of Viking notes receivable
Accrued inventory purchases
Unrealized gain on AFS investments

*See Note (1) for detail on the revision.

(3,765)
(122,868)
(30,094)
(25)

328,585 

(215)
99,375 
20,620 

(10,074)
(1,966)
— 
— 

(7,523)

— 
1,868 
18,752 

119,780  $

20,620  $

1,513  $
341  $

1,838  $
157  $

—  $
—  $
2,059  $
48  $

—  $
—  $
1,007  $
144  $

$

$
$

$
$
$
$

(999)
(3,901)
— 
(6,509)

(4,994)

— 
(78,676)
97,428 

18,752 

1,838 
38 

(77,331)
1,200 
646 
(1,109)

See accompanying notes to these consolidated financial statements.

54

Unless the context requires otherwise, references in this report to “Ligand,” “we,” “us,” the “Company,” and “our” refer to Ligand
Pharmaceuticals Incorporated and its consolidated subsidiaries.

1. Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

Business

Ligand is a biopharmaceutical company with a business model based on developing or acquiring assets which generate royalty, milestone
or other passive revenue for the Company using a lean corporate cost structure. We operate in one business segment: development and
licensing of biopharmaceutical assets.

Principles of Consolidation

The accompanying consolidated financial statements include Ligand and its wholly-owned subsidiaries. All significant intercompany
accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

Basis of Presentation

Our consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP and include the accounts of our parent company
and its wholly-owned subsidiaries. All intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated in consolidation.

Reclassifications

Certain reclassifications have been made to the previously issued statement of operations to conform with the current period presentation.
See detail in Accounting Standards Recently Adopted subsection below for further information.

Use of Estimates

The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires the use of estimates and assumptions that
affect the amounts reported in the consolidated financial statements and the accompanying notes. Actual results may differ from those
estimates.

Concentrations of Business Risk

Financial instruments that potentially subject to significant concentrations of credit risk consist primarily of cash equivalents and
investments. We invest excess cash principally in United States government debt securities, investment grade corporate debt securities and
certificates of deposit. We have established guidelines relative to diversification and maturities that maintain safety and liquidity. These
guidelines are periodically reviewed and modified to take advantage of trends in yields and interest rates.

A relatively small number of partners account for a significant percentage of our revenue. Revenue from significant partners, which is
defined as 10% or more of our total revenue, was as follows:

Partner A
Partner B
Partner C

2018

December 31,
2017

40 %
13 %
20 %

46 %
19 %
< 10% 

2016

41 %
14 %
< 10% 

We obtain Captisol from two sites at a single supplier, Hovione. If this supplier were not able to supply the requested amounts of Captisol
from each site, and if our safety stocks of material were depleted, we would be unable to continue to derive revenues from the sale of
Captisol until we obtained material from an alternative source, which could take a considerable length of time.

Cash Equivalents & Short Term Investments

55

 
Cash equivalents consist of all investments with maturities of three months or less from the date of acquisition. Short-term investments
primarily consist of investments in debt securities that have effective maturities greater than three months and less than twelve months from
the date of acquisition. We classify our short-term investments as "available-for-sale". Such investments are carried at fair value, with
unrealized gains and losses included in the statement of comprehensive income (loss). We determine the cost of investments based on the
specific identification method. 

Accounts Receivable

Trade accounts receivable are recorded at the net invoice value and are not interest bearing. We consider receivables past due based on the
contractual payment terms which range from 30 to 90 days. We reserve specific receivables if collectability is no longer reasonably assured.
We re-evaluate such reserves on a regular basis and adjust the reserves as needed. Once a receivable is deemed to be uncollectible, such
balance is charged against the reserve.

Inventory

Inventory, which consists of finished goods, is stated at the lower of cost or market value. We determine cost using the first-in, first-out
method. We analyze our inventory levels periodically and write down inventory to net realizable value if it has become obsolete, has a cost
basis in excess of its expected net realizable value or is in excess of expected requirements. There were no write downs related to obsolete
inventory recorded for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016.

Property and Equipment

Property and equipment are stated at cost, subject to review for impairment, and depreciated over the estimated useful lives of the assets,
which generally range from three to ten years, using the straight-line method. Amortization of leasehold improvements is recorded over the
shorter of the lease term or estimated useful life of the related asset. Maintenance and repairs are charged to operations as incurred. When
assets are sold, or otherwise disposed of, the cost and related accumulated depreciation are removed from the accounts and any gain or loss
is included in operating expense.

Business Combinations

The acquisition method of accounting for business combinations requires us to use significant estimates and assumptions, including fair
value estimates, as of the business combination date and to refine those estimates as necessary during the measurement period (defined as
the period, not to exceed one year, in which we may adjust the provisional amounts recognized for a business combination).

Under the acquisition method of accounting, we recognize separately from goodwill the identifiable assets acquired, the liabilities
assumed, including contingent consideration and all contractual contingencies, generally at the acquisition date fair value. Contingent
purchase consideration to be settled in cash are remeasured to estimated fair value at each reporting period with the change in fair value
recorded in other income (expense), net. Costs that we incur to complete the business combination such as investment banking, legal and
other professional fees are not considered part of consideration and we charge them to general and administrative expense as they are
incurred.

We measure goodwill as of the acquisition date as the excess of consideration transferred, which we also measure at fair value, over the net
of the acquisition date amounts of the identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed. In addition, IPR&D is capitalized and assessed
for impairment annually. IPR&D is amortized upon product commercialization or upon out-licensing the underlying intellectual property
where we have no active involvement in the licensee's development activities. IPR&D is amortized over the estimated life of the
commercial product or licensing arrangement.

Should the initial accounting for a business combination be incomplete by the end of a reporting period that falls within the measurement
period, we report provisional amounts in our financial statements. During the measurement period, we adjust the provisional amounts
recognized at the acquisition date to reflect new information obtained about facts and circumstances that existed as of the acquisition date
that, if known, would have affected the measurement of the amounts recognized as of that date and we record those adjustments to our
financial statements in the period of change, if any.

Under the acquisition method of accounting for business combinations, if we identify changes to acquired deferred tax asset valuation
allowances or liabilities related to uncertain tax positions during the measurement period and they relate to new information obtained about
facts and circumstances that existed as of the acquisition date, those changes are considered a

56

measurement period adjustment and we record the offset to goodwill. We record all other changes to deferred tax asset valuation
allowances and liabilities related to uncertain tax positions in current period income tax expense.

Contingent Liabilities

In connection with the acquisition of Crystal in October 2017, we may be required to pay up to an additional $10.5 million in purchase
consideration upon achievement of certain commercial and development milestones to the Crystal shareholders.

In connection with the acquisition of CyDex in January 2011, we recorded a contingent liability for amounts potentially due to holders of
the CyDex CVRs and former license holders. The liability is periodically assessed based on events and circumstances related to the
underlying milestones, royalties and material sales. In connection with the acquisition of Metabasis in January 2010, we issued Metabasis
stockholders four tradable CVRs for each Metabasis share. The fair values of the CVRs are remeasured at each reporting date through the
term of the related agreement.

Any change in fair value is recorded in our consolidated statement of operations. For additional information, see “Note (4), Fair Value
Measurement and Note (7), Balance Sheet Account Details.”   

Goodwill, Intangible Assets and Other Long-Lived Assets  

Goodwill, which has an indefinite useful life, represents the excess of cost over fair value of net assets acquired. Goodwill is reviewed for
impairment at least annually during the fourth quarter, or more frequently if an event occurs indicating the potential for impairment. During
the goodwill impairment review, we assess qualitative factors to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of our
reporting unit is less than the carrying amount, including goodwill. We operate in one reporting unit. The qualitative factors include, but
are not limited to, macroeconomic conditions, industry and market considerations, and the overall financial performance. If, after assessing
the totality of these qualitative factors, we determine that it is not more likely than not that the fair value of our reporting unit is less than
the carrying amount, then no additional assessment is deemed necessary. Otherwise, we proceed to perform the two-step test for goodwill
impairment. The first step involves comparing the estimated fair value of the reporting unit with the carrying value, including goodwill. If
the carrying amount of the reporting unit exceeds the fair value, the second step of the goodwill impairment test is performed to determine
the amount of loss, which involves comparing the implied fair value of the goodwill to the carrying value of the goodwill. We may also
elect to bypass the qualitative assessment in a period and elect to proceed to perform the first step of the goodwill impairment test. We
performed the annual assessment for goodwill impairment during the fourth quarter of 2018, noting no impairment.

Our identifiable intangible assets are typically composed of acquired core technologies, licensed technologies, customer relationships and
trade names. The cost of identifiable intangible assets with finite lives is generally amortized on a straight-line basis over the assets’
respective estimated useful lives. We regularly perform reviews to determine if any event has occurred that may indicate that intangible
assets with finite useful lives and other long-lived assets are potentially impaired. If indicators of impairment exist, an impairment test is
performed to assess the recoverability of the affected assets by determining whether the carrying amount of such assets exceeds the
undiscounted expected future cash flows. If the affected assets are not recoverable, we estimate the fair value of the assets and record an
impairment loss if the carrying value of the assets exceeds the fair value. Factors that may indicate potential impairment include a
significant decline in our stock price and market capitalization compared to the net book value, significant changes in the ability of a
particular asset to generate positive cash flows, and the pattern of utilization of a particular asset.

Commercial license rights

Commercial license rights consist of the following (in thousands):

Aziyo & CorMatrix
Palvella
Selexis

Less: accumulated amortization
Total commercial license rights, net

57

December 31,
2018

December 31,
2017

$

$

17,696  $
10,000 
8,602 
36,298 
(4,838)
31,460  $

17,696 
— 
8,602 
26,298 
(6,772)
19,526 

Commercial license rights represent a portfolio of future milestone and royalty payment rights acquired from Selexis in April 2013 and
April 2015, CorMatrix in May 2016, and Pavella in December 2018. Individual commercial license rights acquired are accounted for as
financial assets further discussed below.

In December 2018, we entered into a development funding and royalties agreement with Palvella. Pursuant to the agreement, we will
receive up to $8.0 million of milestone payments upon the achievement by Palvella of certain regulatory milestones for PTX-022,
a product candidate being developed to treat pachyonychia congentia, and corporate and financing milestones. In addition to the milestone
payments, Palvella will pay us tiered royalties from 5.0% to 9.8% based on aggregate annual worldwide net sales of any PTX-022 products,
if approved, subject to Palvella’s right to reduce the royalty rates by making payments in certain circumstances. We paid Palvella an
upfront payment of $10.0 million, which Palvella is required to use to fund the development of PTX-022. We will not incur any expenses to
develop or commercialize PTX-022. Our director, Todd Davis, is also a director of Palvella, who beneficially owns 2% of Palvella's
outstanding equity. Mr. Davis recused himself from all of the board's consideration of the purchase agreement between us and Palvella,
including any financial analysis, the terms of the purchase agreement and the vote to approve the purchase agreement and the related
transactions.

In May 2017, we entered into a royalty agreement with Aziyo pursuant to which we will receive royalties from certain marketed products
that Aziyo acquired from CorMatrix. Pursuant to the agreement, we received $10.0 million in 2017 from Aziyo to buydown the royalty
rates on the products CorMatrix sold to Aziyo. The agreement closed on May 31, 2017, in connection with the closing of the asset sale
from CorMatrix to Aziyo (the “CorMatrix Asset Sale”). Per the agreement, we will receive a 5% royalty on the products Aziyo acquired in
the CorMatrix Asset Sale, reduced from the original 20% royalty from CorMatrix pursuant to the previously disclosed interest purchase
agreement, dated May 3, 2016 (the “Original Interest Purchase Agreement”) between CorMatrix and us. In addition, Aziyo has agreed to
pay us up to $10.0 million of additional milestones tied to cumulative net sales of the products Aziyo acquired in the CorMatrix Asset Sale
and to extend the term on these royalties by one year. The royalty agreement will terminate on May 31, 2027. In addition, in May 2017, we
entered into an amended and restated interest purchase agreement (the “Amended Interest Purchase Agreement”) with CorMatrix, which
supersedes in its entirety the Original Interest Purchase Agreement. Other than removing the commercial products sold to Aziyo in the
CorMatrix Sale, the terms of the Amended Interest Purchase Agreement remain unchanged with respect to the CorMatrix developmental
pipeline products, including the royalty rate of 5% on such pipeline products. The Amended Interest Purchase Agreement will terminate 10
years from the date of the first commercial sale of such products.

We account for the Aziyo commercial license right as a financial asset in accordance with ASC 310 and amortize the commercial license
right using the effective interest method whereby we forecast expected cash flows over the term of the arrangement to arrive at an
annualized effective interest. The annual effective interest associated with the forecasted cash flows from the royalty agreement with Aziyo
as of December 31, 2018 is 26%. Revenue is calculated by multiplying the carrying value of the commercial license right by the effective
interest. The payments received in 2018 were accordingly allocated between revenue and the amortization of the commercial license rights.

We elected a prospective approach to account for changes in estimated cash flows and selected a method for determining when an
impairment would be recognized and how to measure that impairment. In circumstances where our new estimate of expected cash flows is
greater than previously expected, we will update our yield prospectively. While it has not occurred to date, in circumstances where our new
estimate of expected cash flows is less than previously expected and below our original estimated yield we will record an impairment.
Impairment will be recognized by reducing the financial asset to an amount that represents the present value of our most recent estimate of
expected cash flows discounted by the original effective interest rate.  In circumstances where our new estimate of expected cash flows is
less than previously expected, but not below our original estimated yield, we will update our yield prospectively.

We account for commercial license rights related to developmental pipeline products on a non-accrual basis. These developmental pipeline
products are non-commercialized, non-approved products that require FDA or other regulatory approval, and thus have uncertain cash
flows. The developmental pipeline products are on a non-accrual basis as we are not yet able to forecast future cash flows given their pre-
commercial stages of development. We will prospectively update the yield model under the effective interest method once the underlying
products are commercialized and we can reliably forecast expected cash flows. Income will be calculated by multiplying the carrying value
of the commercial license right by the effective interest rate.

Revenue Recognition

Our revenue is generated primarily from royalties on sales of products commercialized by our partners, Captisol material sales, license fees
and development, regulatory and sales based milestone payments.

58

On January 1, 2018, we adopted ASC 606 which amends the guidance for recognition of revenue from contracts with customers by using
the modified-retrospective method applied to those contracts that were not completed as of January 1, 2018. The results for reporting
periods beginning January 1, 2018, are presented in accordance with the new standard, although comparative information has not been
restated and continues to be reported under the accounting standards and policies in effect for those periods.

Upon adoption, we recorded a net decrease of $25.6 million to accumulated deficit due to the cumulative impact of adopting the new
standard, with the impact related primarily to the acceleration of royalty revenue, net of related deferred tax impact. See additional
information in Disaggregation of Revenue subsection below. Our accounting policies under the new standard were applied prospectively
and are noted below.

Royalties, License Fees and Milestones

We receive royalty revenue on sales by our partners of products covered by patents that we or our partners own under the contractual
agreements. We do not have future performance obligations under these license arrangements. We generally satisfy our obligation to grant
intellectual property rights on the effective date of the contract. However, we apply the royalty recognition constraint required under the
guidance for sales-based royalties which requires a sales-based royalty to be recorded no sooner than the underlying sale. Therefore,
royalties on sales of products commercialized by our partners are recognized in the quarter the product is sold. Our partners generally
report sales information to us on a one quarter lag. Thus, we estimate the expected royalty proceeds based on an analysis of historical
experience and interim data provided by our partners including their publicly announced sales. Differences between actual and estimated
royalty revenues are adjusted for in the period in which they become known, typically the following quarter.

Our contracts with customers often will include future contingent milestone based payments. We include contingent milestone based
payments in the estimated transaction price when there is a basis to reasonably estimate the amount of the payment. These estimates are
based on historical experience, anticipated results and our best judgment at the time. If the contingent milestone based payment is sales-
based, we apply the royalty recognition constraint and record revenue when the underlying sale has taken place. Significant judgments
must be made in determining the transaction price for our sales of intellectual property. Because of the risk that products in development
with our partners will not reach development based milestones or receive regulatory approval, we generally recognize any contingent
payments that would be due to us upon or after the development milestone or regulatory approval.

Material Sales

We recognize revenue when control of Captisol material or intellectual property license rights is transferred to our customers in an amount
that reflects the consideration we expect to receive from our customers in exchange for those products. This process involves identifying
the contract with a customer, determining the performance obligations in the contract, determining the contract price, allocating the
contract price to the distinct performance obligations in the contract, and recognizing revenue when the performance obligations have been
satisfied. A performance obligation is considered distinct from other obligations in a contract when it provides a benefit to the customer
either on its own or together with other resources that are readily available to the customer and is separately identified in the contract. We
consider a performance obligation satisfied once we have transferred control of the product, meaning the customer has the ability to use
and obtain the benefit of the Captisol material or intellectual property license right. We recognize revenue for satisfied performance
obligations only when we determine there are no uncertainties regarding payment terms or transfer of control. Sales tax and other taxes we
collect concurrent with revenue-producing activities are excluded from revenue. We expense incremental costs of obtaining a contract
when incurred if the expected amortization period of the asset that we would have recognized is one year or less or the amount is
immaterial. We did not incur any incremental costs of obtaining a contract during the periods reported.

Depending on the terms of the arrangement, we may also defer a portion of the consideration received because we have to satisfy a future
obligation. We use an observable price to determine the stand-alone selling price for separate performance obligations or a cost plus margin
approach when one is not available. We have elected to recognize the cost for freight and shipping when control over Captisol material has
transferred to the customer as an expense in cost of material sales.

The timing of revenue recognition, billings and cash collections results in billed accounts receivable, unbilled receivables (contract assets),
and customer advances and deposits (contract liabilities) on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. Except for royalty revenue, we generally
receive payment at the point we satisfy our obligation or soon after. Therefore, we do not generally carry a contract asset or deferred
revenue balance.

59

We have revenue sharing arrangements whereby certain revenue proceeds are shared with a third party. The revenue standard requires an
entity to determine whether it is a principal or an agent in these transactions by evaluating the nature of its promise to the customer. We
received a $4.6 million milestone payment from a license partner during 2018 of which $3.0 million was paid to a third-party in-licensor.
We recorded net revenue of $1.6 million as we believe we are an agent in the transaction. We record amounts due to third-party in-
licensors as general and administrative expenses when we are the principal in the transaction.

Disaggregation of Revenue

Under ASC 605, the legacy revenue standard, we would have reported total royalty revenue of $121.0 million during 2018, disaggregated
as follows: Promacta $92.3 million, Kyprolis $20.9 million, Evomela $5.7 million, and Other $2.1 million. During 2017, royalty revenue
continued to be reported in accordance with ASC 605 and was $88.7 million or disaggregated as follows: Promacta $62.9 million, Kyprolis
$16.4 million, Evomela $7.2 million and Other $2.2 million. During 2016, royalty revenue continued to be reported in accordance with
ASC 605 and was $59.4 million or disaggregated as follows: Promacta $43.0 million, Kyprolis $12.1 million, Evomela $1.4 million and
Other $2.9 million.

Under ASC 606, royalty revenue was $128.6 million during 2018 or disaggregated as follows: Promacta $99.3 million, Kyprolis
$21.7 million, Evomela $5.7 million and Other $1.9 million.

The following table represents disaggregation of Material Sales and License fees, milestone and other (in thousands), which are not
affected by the adoption of ASC 606:

Material Sales 
Captisol 
License fees, milestones and other 
License fees 
Milestones 
Other 

$

$

2018

2017

2016

Year ended December 31, 

29,123  $

78,195 
6,577 
9,002 
93,774  $

22,070  $

13,665 
11,093 
5,589 
30,347  $

22,502 

10,570 
16,091 
387 
27,048 

Preclinical Study and Clinical Trial Accruals

Substantial portions of our preclinical studies and all of our clinical trials have been performed by third-party laboratories, CROs. We
account for a significant portion of the clinical study costs according to the terms of our contracts with CROs. The terms of the CRO
contracts may result in payment flows that do not match the periods over which services are provided to us under such contracts. Our
objective is to reflect the appropriate preclinical and clinical trial expenses in our financial statements in the same period as the services
occur. As part of the process of preparing our financial statements, we rely on cost information provided by our CROs. We are also
required to estimate certain of our expenses resulting from the obligations under the CRO contracts. Accordingly, our preclinical study and
clinical trial accrual is dependent upon the timely and accurate reporting of CROs and other third-party vendors. We periodically evaluate
our estimates to determine if adjustments are necessary or appropriate as more information becomes available concerning changing
circumstances, and conditions or events that may affect such estimates. No material adjustments to preclinical study and clinical trial
accrued expenses have been recognized to date.

Research and Development Expenses

Research and development expense consists of labor, material, equipment, and allocated facilities costs of our scientific staff who are
working pursuant to our collaborative agreements and other research and development projects. Also included in research and development
expenses are third-party costs incurred for our research programs including in-licensing costs, CRO costs and costs incurred by other
research and development service vendors. We expense these costs as they are incurred. When we make payments for research and
development services prior to the services being rendered, we record those amounts as prepaid assets on our consolidated balance sheet and
we expense them as the services are provided.

60

Share-Based Compensation

We incur share-based compensation expense related to restricted stock, ESPP, and stock options.

Restricted stock unit (RSU) and performance stock unit (PSU) are all considered restricted stock. The fair value of restricted stock is
determined by the closing market price of our common stock on the date of grant. We recognize share-based compensation expense based
on the fair value on a straight-line basis over the requisite service periods of the awards, taking into consideration of forfeitures. PSU
represents a right to receive a certain number of shares of common stock based on the achievement of corporate performance goals and
continued employment during the vesting period. At each reporting period, we reassess the probability of the achievement of such
corporate performance goals and any expense change resulting from an adjustment in the estimated shares to be released are treated as a
cumulative catch-up in the period of adjustment.

We use the Black-Scholes-Merton option-pricing model to estimate the fair value of stock purchases under ESPP and stock options granted.
The model assumptions include expected volatility, term, dividends, and the risk-free interest rate. We look to historical and implied
volatilities of our stock to determine the expected volatility. The expected term of an award is based on historical forfeiture experience,
exercise activity, and on the terms and conditions of the stock awards. The expected dividend yield is determined to be 0% given
that except for 2007, during which we declared a cash dividend on our common stock of $2.50 per share, we have not paid any dividends on
our common stock in the past and currently do not expect to pay cash dividends or make any other distributions on common stock in the
future. The risk-free interest rate is based upon U.S. Treasury securities with remaining terms similar to the expected term of the share-
based awards.

We grant options, RSUs and PSUs to employees and non-employee directors. Non-employee directors are accounted for as employees.
Options and RSUs granted to certain non-employee directors vest one year from the date of grant. Options granted to employees vest 1/8 on
the six month anniversary of the date of grant, and 1/48 each month thereafter for forty-two months. RSUs and PSUs granted to employees
vest over three years. All option awards generally expire ten years from the date of grant.

Share-based compensation expense for awards to employees and non-employee directors is recognized on a straight-line basis over the
vesting period until the last tranche vests.

Derivatives

In May 2018, we issued $750.0 million aggregate principal amount of 2023 Notes, bearing cash interest at a rate of 0.75% per year, payable
semi-annually, as further described in “Footnote 6. Convertible Senior Notes.” Concurrently with the issuance of the notes, we entered into
a series of convertible note hedge and warrant transactions which in combination are designed to reduce the potential dilution to our
stockholders and/or offset the cash payments we are required to make in excess of the principal amount upon conversion of the notes. The
conversion option associated with the 2023 Notes temporarily met the criteria for an embedded derivative liability which required
bifurcation and separate accounting. In addition, the note hedge and warrants were also temporarily classified as a derivative asset and
liability, respectively, on our consolidated balance sheet. As a result of shareholder approval to increase the number of authorized shares of
our common stock on June 19, 2018, as discussed in “Footnote 6. Convertible Senior Notes,” the derivative asset and liabilities were
reclassified to additional paid-in capital. Changes in the fair value of these derivatives prior to being classified in equity were reflected in
other expense, net, in our consolidated statements of operations.

The following table summarizes the inputs and assumptions used in the Black-Scholes model to calculate the fair value of the assets and
the inputs and assumptions used in the Binomial model to calculate the fair value of the derivative liabilities associated with the 2023
Notes:

61

Common stock price 
Exercise price, conversion premium and bond hedge 
Exercise price, warrant 
Risk-free interest rate 
Volatility 
Dividend yield 
Annual coupon rate 
Remaining contractual term (in years) 

As of May 22, 2018 
$187.09 
$248.48 
315.38 
2.9% 
30%-35% 
— 
0.75% 
5.05 

As of June 19, 2018 
$195.91 
$248.48 
315.38 
2.8% 
30%-35% 
— 
0.75% 
4.98 

In connection with our 2019 Notes, which we issued in August 2014 for $245.0 million aggregate principal amount, on May 22, 2018, we
amended it making an irrevocable election to settle the entire note in cash. As a result, we reclassified from equity to derivative liability the
fair value of the conversion premium as of May 22, 2018. Amounts paid in excess of the principal amount will be offset by an equal receipt
of cash under the corresponding convertible bond hedge. As a result, we reclassified from equity to derivative asset the fair value of the
bond hedge as of May 22, 2018. Changes in the fair value of these derivatives are reflected in other expense, net, in our condensed
consolidated statements of operations.

The following table summarizes the inputs and assumptions used in the Black-Scholes model to calculate the fair value of the
derivative assets and the inputs and assumptions used in the Binomial model to calculate the fair value of the derivative liability associated
with the 2019 Notes:

Common stock price 
Exercise price, conversion premium and bond hedge 
Risk-free interest rate 
Volatility 
Dividend yield 
Annual coupon rate 
Remaining contractual term (in years) 

Income Taxes

As of May 22, 2018 
$187.09 
$75.05 
2.47% 
30%-35% 
— 
0.75% 
1.25 

As of December 31, 2018 
$135.70 
$75.05 
2.60% 
30%-35% 
— 
0.75% 
0.63 

The provision for income taxes is computed using the asset and liability method, under which deferred tax assets and liabilities are
recognized for the expected future tax consequences of temporary differences between the financial reporting and tax bases of assets and
liabilities, and for the expected future tax benefit to be derived from tax loss and credit carryforwards. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are
determined using the enacted tax rates in effect for the years in which those tax assets are expected to be realized. The effect of a change in
tax rates on deferred tax assets and liabilities is recognized in the provision for income taxes in the period that includes the enactment date.

Deferred tax assets are regularly assessed to determine the likelihood they will be recovered from future taxable income. A valuation
allowance is established when we believe it is more likely than not the future realization of all or some of a deferred tax asset will not be
achieved. In evaluating the ability to recover deferred tax assets within the jurisdiction which they arise we consider all available positive
and negative evidence. Factors reviewed include the cumulative pre-tax book income for the past three years, scheduled reversals of
deferred tax liabilities, history of earnings and reliable forecasting, projections of pre-tax book income over the foreseeable future, and the
impact of any feasible and prudent tax planning strategies.

We recognize the impact of a tax position in the financial statements only if that position is more likely than not of being sustained upon
examination by taxing authorities, based on the technical merits of the position. Any interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions
will be reflected in income tax expense.

Discontinued Operations

62

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
In 2006, we entered into a purchase agreement with Eisai pursuant to which Eisai agreed to acquire our Oncology product line which
included four marketed oncology drugs: ONTAK, Targretin capsules, Targretin gel and Panretin gel. During the year ended December 31,
2016 we recognized a $1.1 million gain due to subsequent changes in certain estimates and liabilities previously recorded. We recorded a
provision for income taxes related to the gain of $0.4 million.

Income (loss) Per Share

Basic income (loss) per share is calculated by dividing net income by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding during
the period. Diluted income per share is computed based on the sum of the weighted average number of common shares and potentially
dilutive common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted loss per share is computed based on the sum of the weighted average
number of common shares outstanding during the period.

Potentially dilutive common shares consist of shares issuable under 2019 and 2023 convertible senior notes, stock options and restricted
stock. 2019 and 2023 convertible senior notes have a dilutive impact when the average market price of the Company’s common stock
exceeds the applicable conversion price of the respective notes. It is our intent and policy to settle conversions through combination
settlement, which essentially involves payment in cash equal to the principal portion and delivery of shares of common stock for the excess
of the conversion value over the principal portion. In addition, post May 22, 2018, the 2019 Notes can only be settled in cash and therefore
there will be no further impact on income (loss) per share of these notes. Potentially dilutive common shares from stock options and
restricted stock are determined using the average share price for each period under the treasury stock method. In addition, the following
amounts are assumed to be used to repurchase shares: proceeds from exercise of stock options and the average amount of unrecognized
compensation expense for restricted stock. In loss periods, basic net loss per share and diluted net loss per share are identical since the
effect of otherwise dilutive potential common shares is anti-dilutive and therefore excluded

The following table presents the calculation of weighted average shares used to calculate basic and diluted earnings per share (in
thousands):

Weighted average shares outstanding:
Dilutive potential common shares:
Restricted stock
Stock options
Warrants associated with 2019 Notes
2019 Convertible Senior Notes
Shares used to compute diluted income per share
Potentially dilutive shares excluded from calculation due to anti-dilutive effect

Comprehensive Income (Loss)

Year Ended December 31,

2018

2017

2016

21,160 

21,032 

20,831 

72 
1,125 
1,017 
693 
24,067 
2,845 

141 
1,000 
94 
1,214 
23,481 
335 

— 
— 
— 
— 
20,831 
3,544 

Comprehensive income (loss) represents net income (loss) adjusted for the change during the periods presented in unrealized gains and
losses on available-for-sale securities, foreign currency translation adjustments, and reclassification adjustments for realized gains or losses
included in net income (loss). The unrealized gains or losses are reported on the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income
(Loss).

Foreign Currency Translation

The British Pound Sterling is the functional currency of Vernalis and the corresponding financial statements have been translated into U.S.
Dollars in accordance with ASC 830-30, Translation of Financial Statements. Assets and liabilities are translated at end-of-period rates
while revenues and expenses are translated at average rates in effect during the period in which the activity took place. Equity is translated
at historical rates and the resulting cumulative translation adjustments are included as a component of accumulated other comprehensive
income (loss).

Accounting Standards Recently Adopted

63

 
Revenue Recognition - In May 2014, the FASB issued new guidance related to revenue recognition, ASU 2014-09, Revenue from
Contracts with Customers (Topic 606), and the amendments in ASUs 2015-14, 2016-10 and 2016-12, which outlines a comprehensive
revenue recognition model and supersedes most current revenue recognition guidance. The new guidance requires a company to recognize
revenue upon transfer of goods or services to a customer at an amount that reflects the expected consideration to be received in exchange
for those goods or services. ASC 606 defines a five-step approach for recognizing revenue, which may require a company to use more
judgment and make more estimates than under the current guidance. We adopted this new standard as of January 1, 2018, by using the
modified-retrospective method. See Revenue, Royalties, Licenses Fees and Milestones, Material Sales, and Disaggregation of Revenue
subsections mentioned above for further information.

Financial Instruments - In January 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-01, Financial Instruments - Overall (Subtopic 825-10), which
requires equity investments (other than those accounted for under the equity method or those that result in consolidation) to be measured at
fair value, with changes in fair value recognized in net income. We have strategic investments, including Viking, that fall under this
guidance update. We have adopted ASU 2016-01 effective January 1, 2018 as a cumulative-effect adjustment and reclassified $2.7 million
unrealized gains on equity investments, net of tax, from accumulated other comprehensive income to accumulated deficit on our
consolidated balance sheet. Effective January 1, 2018, our results of operations include the changes in fair value of these financial
instruments. See “Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data—Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—Note (2),
Investment in Viking” for additional information.

Stock Compensation - In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-09, Compensation - Stock Compensation (Topic 718), which aims to
simplify the accounting for share-based payment transactions, including accounting for income taxes, classification on the statement of cash
flows, accounting for forfeitures, and classification of awards as either liabilities or equity. We have adopted this standard effective January
1, 2017. This standard increases the volatility of net income by requiring excess tax benefits from share-based payment arrangements to be
classified as discrete items within the provision for income taxes, rather than recognizing excess tax benefits in additional paid-in capital.
Upon adoption in the first quarter of 2017, we recorded $17.6 million to accumulated deficit on our consolidated balance sheet, primarily
related to unrealized tax benefits associated with share-based compensation. Also, as a result of the adoption of this new standard, we made
an accounting policy election to recognize forfeitures as they occur and will no longer estimate expected forfeitures. In addition, excess
income tax benefits from share-based compensation arrangements are classified as cash flows from operations, rather than cash flows from
financing activities. We elected to apply the cash flows classification guidance prospectively and have not adjusted prior periods.

Statement of Cash Flows - In August 2016 the FASB issued ASU 2016-15, Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230), Classification of Certain
Cash Receipts and Cash Payments. The new standard clarifies certain aspects of the statement of cash flows, and aims to reduce diversity
in practice regarding how certain transactions are classified in the statement of cash flows. This standard was effective January 1, 2018. We
adopted ASU 2016-15 effective January 1, 2018. For the year ended December 31, 2017, we have reclassed $5.0 million payments to CVR
holders and other contingency payments from investing activities to operating activities. For the year ended December 31, 2016, we have
reclassed $8.8 million payments to CVR holders and other contingency payments from investing activities to operating activities and
financing activities in amount of $2.3 million and $6.5 million, respectively. In addition, in November 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-
18, Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230), Restricted Cash. The standard requires that a statement of cash flows explains the change during
the period in the total of cash, cash equivalents, and amounts generally described as restricted cash or restricted cash equivalents.
Therefore, restricted cash should be included with cash and cash equivalents when reconciling the beginning-of-period and end-of-period
total amounts shown on the statement of cash flows. The new guidance is effective for interim and annual periods beginning after
December 15, 2017. We adopted this standard retrospectively, effective January 1, 2018 and included restricted cash amount of $2.6
million, which was included in other current assets in our consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2018, in the consolidated
statement of cash flows. See additional information in “Footnote 7. Balance Sheet Account Details.” We did not have any restricted cash as
of December 31, 2017 and 2016 .

 Accounting Standards Not Yet Adopted

Leases - In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842). This standard requires organizations that lease assets to
recognize the assets and liabilities created by those leases. The standard also will require disclosures to help investors and other financial
statement users better understand the amount, timing, and uncertainty of cash flows arising from leases. The ASU becomes effective for
public companies for fiscal years and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2018. In 2018, the FASB
issued guidance that provides an optional transition method for adoption of this standard, which allows organizations to initially apply the
new requirements at the effective date, recognize a cumulative effect adjustment to the opening balance of retained earnings, and continue
to apply the legacy guidance in ASC 840, Leases,

64

 
including its disclosure requirements, in the comparative periods presented. We adopted this standard on January 1, 2019 by applying this
optional transition method. For leases with a term of 12 months or less, we elected to not recognize lease assets and lease liabilities and
expense the leases over a straight-line basis for the term of those leases. The adoption of this standards update resulted in no material
impact to our balance sheet, statement of operations, equity or cash flows.

Financial Instruments - In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-13, Financial Instruments - Credit Losses: Measurement of Credit
Losses on Financial Instruments (Topic 326), which amends the impairment model by requiring entities to use a forward-looking approach
based on expected losses to estimate credit losses on certain types of financial instruments, including trade receivables and available for
sale debt securities. ASU 2016-13 is effective for us beginning in the first quarter of 2020, with early adoption permitted. We are currently
evaluating the impact of this ASU on our consolidated financial statements.

Fair Value Measurement - In August 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-13, Fair Value Measurement: Disclosure Framework— Changes to
the Disclosure Requirements for Fair Value Measurement (Topic 820), which modifies the disclosure requirements on fair value
measurements. ASU 2018-13 is effective for us beginning in the first quarter of 2020, with earlier adoption permitted. We are currently
evaluating the impact of this ASU on our consolidated financial statements.

We do not believe that any other recently issued, but not yet effective accounting pronouncements, if adopted, would have a material
impact on our consolidated financial statements or disclosures.

2. Investment in Viking

Our current ownership in Viking is approximately 8.8% and we account it as investment in an available-for-sale security due to the fact that
1) we do not have the ability to exercise significant influence over Viking, 2) we are not involved in Viking's ongoing operations, and 3)
Viking does not rely on us to provide technology products, expertise, support or services. Our investment in Viking is measured at fair
value, with changes in fair value recognized in net income.

Our ownership in Viking was 17.6% and 30.3% as of December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively. As a result of Viking's public stock
offerings, we recorded a dilution gain of $2.7 million and a dilution loss of $10.7 million for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016,
respectively. These amounts were recognized in Loss from Viking in our consolidated statement of operations. Our equity ownership
interest in Viking decreased during the first quarter of 2018 to approximately 12.4% due to Viking's financing events in February 2018. As a
result, in February 2018, we concluded that we did not exert significant influence over Viking and discontinued accounting for our
investment in Viking under the equity method. Viking is considered a related party as we maintain a seat on Viking's board of directors.

Ligand and Viking were previously parties to a Loan and Security Agreement, dated May 21, 2014 (as amended by the First Amendment to
Loan and Security Agreement, dated April 8, 2015, and the Second Amendment to Loan and Security Agreement, dated January 22, 2016,
the “Loan and Security Agreement”), pursuant to which we loaned $2.5 million to Viking. Such debt was evidenced by a Senior
Convertible Promissory Note (the “Convertible Note”). Pursuant to the terms of the Loan and Security Agreement, upon the consummation
of the Follow-On Public Offering on April 13, 2016, Viking repaid us $1.5 million, which payment was composed of $0.3 million in cash,
with the remaining balance paid in Viking’s equity securities, resulting in the issuance of 960,000 shares of common stock to us in the
Follow-On Public Offering. Such payment was applied, first, to accrued and unpaid interest on the Convertible Note and, second, to the
unpaid principal amount of the Convertible Note. On July 15, 2017, Viking repaid an additional $0.2 million in cash. Such payment was
applied, first, to accrued and unpaid interest on the Convertible Note and, second, to the unpaid principal amount of the Convertible Note.
On May 23, 2018, the Convertible Note was repurchased in full by Viking for $3.9 million in cash. As of December 31, 2018, the
Convertible Note and Loan and Security Agreement are no longer outstanding.

We also have outstanding warrants to purchase 1.5 million shares of Viking's common stock at an exercise price of $1.50 per share. We
recorded the warrants in other current assets in our consolidated balance sheets at fair value of $9.3 million and $3.9 million at
December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively. For the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016, a gain of $5.4 million, $3.2 million
and $0.3 million on the fair market value of the warrants, respectively, was included within other income. See further discussion in “ Note
(4), Fair Value Measurement.”  

Prior to the adoption of ASU 2016-01, we reviewed our investment in Viking on a regular basis and assess whether events, changes in
circumstances or the passage of time, in management's judgment, indicate that a loss in the market value of the investment may be other
than temporary. This might include, but would not necessarily be limited to, the period of time during which the carrying value of our
investment is significantly above the observed market value, a deterioration in Viking's financial condition, or an adverse event relating to
its lead clinical programs.

65

Based on a sustained low Viking common stock unit price during the year ended December 31, 2016, we determined that an other than
temporary decrease in the value of our investment in Viking had occurred. We wrote down the value of our investment in Viking to its
estimated fair value which resulted in impairment charges of $7.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2016.

Subsequent to the adoption of ASU 2016-01, we no longer account for our investment in Viking under the equity method; instead, it is
measured at fair value, with changes in fair value recognized in net income. 

3. Business Combinations

As set forth below, we completed three acquisitions from January 1, 2016 through December 31, 2018, and all were accounted for as
business combinations. We applied the acquisition method of accounting. Accordingly, we recorded the tangible and intangible assets
acquired and liabilities assumed at their estimated fair values as of the applicable date of acquisition. For each acquisition, we did not incur
any material acquisition related costs.

Vernalis Acquisition

In October 2018, we acquired Vernalis, a structure-based drug discovery biotechnology company for $43.0 million, funded through cash on
hand. The acquisition of Vernalis increases our overall portfolio of fully-funded programs. As Vernalis' operations are not considered
material, pro forma information is not provided.

The preliminary allocation of the consideration was allocated to the acquisition date fair values of acquired assets and assumed liabilities as
follows (in thousands):

Cash and cash equivalents 
Restricted cash 
Other assets 
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities 
Restructuring and product reserves 
Deferred revenue 
Intangibles assets with finite life - core technology
Goodwill

$

$

34,286 
2,836 
6,383 
(3,403)
(7,118)
(746)
7,000 
3,740 
42,978 

None of the goodwill is deductible for tax purposes. The fair value of the core technologies were based on the discounted cash flow
method that estimated the present value of the hypothetical royalty/milestone streams derived from the licensing of the related
technologies. These projected cash flows were discounted to present value using a discount rate of 34.0%. The fair value of the core
technology is being amortized on a straight-line basis over the weighted average estimated useful life of approximately nine years.

The estimated fair values of assets acquired and liabilities assumed, including deferred tax assets and liabilities, purchased intangibles and
deferred revenue are provisional. The accounting for these amounts falls within the measurement period and therefore we may adjust these
provisional amounts to reflect new information obtained about facts and circumstances that existed as of the acquisition date.

Crystal Acquisition

On October 6, 2017, we acquired all of the assets and liabilities of Crystal. Crystal is a biotechnology company focused in avian genetics
and the generation of fully-human therapeutic engineering of animals for the generation of fully-human therapeutic antibodies through its
OmniChicken® technology. Under the terms of the agreement, we were to pay Crystal selling shareholders $27.2 million in cash including
a $2.2 million working capital adjustment, and up to an additional $10.5 million of cash consideration based on Crystal’s achievement of
certain research and business milestones prior to December 31, 2019. In addition, Crystal’s selling shareholders will receive 10% of
revenues realized by Ligand above $15 million between the closing date and December 31, 2022 from existing collaboration agreements
between Crystal and three of its collaborators, and Crystal’s selling shareholders will receive 20% of revenues above $1.5
million generated between the closing date and

66

December 31, 2022 pursuant to a fourth existing collaboration agreement with a large pharmaceutical company. As of December 31, 2018,
$0.2 million of the initial $27.2 million of cash consideration remained outstanding.

At the closing of the acquisition, we recorded an $ 8.4 million contingent liability for amounts potentially due to Crystal shareholders. The
initial fair value of the liability was determined using a probability weighted income approach incorporating the estimated future cash
flows from potential milestones and revenue sharing. These cash flows were then discounted to present value using discount rates based
on our estimated corporate credit rating, and averaged to approximately 4.6%. Refer to Note 4 Fair Value Measurement for further
discussion. The liability has been periodically assessed based on events and circumstances related to the underlying milestones, and any
changes in fair value are recorded in our consolidated statements of operations. The carrying amount of the liability may fluctuate
significantly and actual amounts paid may be materially different than the carrying amount of the liability. There was no change in the fair
value of the contingent liabilities from the initial valuation date to December 31, 2018.

The aggregate acquisition consideration was determined to be $ 35.7 million, consisting of (in thousands):

Cash paid to Crystal shareholders
Cash payable to Crystal Shareholders
Assumed liabilities
Fair value of contingent consideration
Total consideration

$

$

26,877 
336 
129 
8,401 
35,743 

The acquisition consideration was allocated to the acquisition date fair values of acquired assets and assumed liabilities as follows (in
thousands):

Cash and cash equivalents
Accounts receivable
Prepaid expenses and other assets
Property and equipment, net
Current liabilities assumed
Deferred revenue
Deferred tax liabilities, net

Intangible asset with finite life - core technology

Goodwill
Total consideration

$

$

224 
2,513 
201 
589 
(354)
(4,624)

(9,503)

36,000 
10,697 
35,743 

The fair value of the core technology, or OmniChicken technology, was based on the discounted cash flow method that estimated the
present value of a hypothetical royalty stream derived from the licensing of the OmniChicken technology. These projected cash flows were
discounted to present value using a discount rate of 10.8%. The fair value of the core technology is being amortized on a straight-line basis
over the estimated useful life of 20 years.

The excess of the acquisition date consideration over the fair values assigned to the assets acquired and the liabilities assumed was $ 10.7
million and was recorded as goodwill, which is not deductible for tax purposes and is primarily attributable to Crystal’s potential revenue
growth from combining the Crystal and Ligand businesses and workforce, as well as the benefits of access to different markets and
customers.

OMT Acquisition

On January 8, 2016, we acquired substantially all of the assets and liabilities of OMT. OMT is a biotechnology company engaged in the
genetic engineering of animals for the generation of human therapeutic antibodies through its OmniAb® technology. The aggregate
acquisition consideration was $173.4 million, consisting of (in thousands, except per share amounts):

67

Cash consideration
Total share consideration:
Actual number of shares issued
Multiplied by: Ligand closing share price on January 8, 2016
Total share consideration

Total consideration

$

$

$

96,006 

790 
98 
77,373 

173,379 

The acquisition consideration was allocated to the acquisition date fair values of acquired assets and assumed liabilities as follows (in
thousands):

Cash and cash equivalents
Accounts receivable
Income tax receivable
Prepaid expenses and other current assets
Deferred tax liabilities, net
Intangible asset with finite life - core technology
Liabilities assumed
Goodwill
Total consideration

$

$

3,504 
5 
136 
1 
(55,708)
167,000 
(1,528)
59,969 
173,379 

The fair value of the core technology, or OMT's OmniAb technology, was based on the discounted cash flow method that estimated the
present value of a hypothetical royalty stream derived from the licensing of the OmniAb technology. These projected cash flows were
discounted to present value using a discount rate of 15.5%. The fair value of the core technology is being amortized on a straight-line basis
over the estimated useful life of 20 years.

The excess of the acquisition date consideration over the fair values assigned to the assets acquired and the liabilities assumed was $ 60.0
million and was recorded as goodwill, which is not deductible for tax purposes and is primarily attributable to OMT’s potential revenue
growth from combining the OMT and Ligand businesses and workforce, as well as the benefits of access to different markets and
customers.

4. Fair Value Measurement

We measure certain financial assets and liabilities at fair value on a recurring basis. Fair value is a market-based measurement that should
be determined using assumptions that market participants would use in pricing an asset or liability. We establish a three-level hierarchy to
prioritize the inputs used in measuring fair value. The levels are described in the below with level 1 having the highest priority and level 3
having the lowest:

Level 1 - Observable inputs such as quoted prices in active markets

Level 2 - Inputs other than the quoted prices in active markets that are observable either directly or indirectly

Level 3 - Unobservable inputs in which there is little or no market data, which require the Company to develop its own assumptions

68

The following table provides a summary of the assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of December 31,
2018 and 2017 (in thousands):

Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using

December 31, 2018

Assets:
Short-term investments (1)
Investment in warrants (3)
Total assets
Liabilities:
Contingent liabilities - Crystal (4)
Contingent liabilities - Cydex (5)
Contingent liabilities - Metabasis (6)
Liability for amounts owed to a former licensor (7)
Total liabilities

Quoted Prices in
Active Markets
for Identical
Assets
(Level 1)

Significant
Other
Observable
Inputs
(Level 2)

Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)

Total

$

$

$

$

647,408  $
9,257 
656,665  $

6,477  $
514 
5,551 
199 
12,741  $

47,517  $
9,257 
56,774  $

599,891  $

— 

599,891  $

—  $
— 
— 
199 
199  $

— 
— 
5,551 
— 
5,551  $

— 
— 
— 

6,477 
514 
— 
— 
6,991 

Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using

December 31, 2017

Assets:
Short-term investments (1)
Note receivable Viking (2)
Investment in warrants (3)
Total assets
Liabilities:
Contingent liabilities - Crystal (4)
Contingent liabilities - Cydex (5)
Contingent liabilities - Metabasis (6)
Liability for amounts owed to a former licensor (7)
Total liabilities

Quoted Prices in
Active Markets
for Identical
Assets
(Level 1)

Significant
Other
Observable
Inputs
(Level 2)

Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)

Total

$

$

$

$

181,041 
3,877 
3,846 
188,764  $

8,401  $
1,589 
3,971 
284 
14,245  $

1,896  $
— 
3,846 
5,742  $

—  $
— 
— 
284 
284  $

179,145  $

— 
— 

179,145  $

—  $
— 
3,971 
— 
3,971  $

— 
3,877 
— 
3,877 

8,401 
1,589 
— 
— 
9,990 

(1) Amounts Investments in equity securities (including investments in Viking), are classified as level 1 as the fair value is determined using quoted market prices in
active markets for the same securities. Short-term investments in marketable securities with maturities greater than 90 days are classified as level 2 of the fair value
hierarchy, as these investment securities are valued based upon quoted prices for identical or similar instruments in markets that are not active, and model-based
valuation techniques for which all significant assumptions are observable in the market.

(2) The fair value of the Convertible Note receivable from Viking at December 31, 2017 approximated the book value since the contractual maturity date was within
five months from the end of 2017, and there was no plan to extend the maturity date. The fair value at December 31, 2017 was determined using a probability weighted
option pricing model. The fair value is subjective and is affected by certain significant input to the valuation model such as the estimated volatility of the common
stock, which was estimated to be 75% at December 31, 2017. Changes in these assumptions may materially affect the fair value estimate. For the years ended
December 31, 2018, December 31, 2017, and December 31, 2016, we reported an increase in the fair value of  0.0 million, an increase in the fair value of $ 0.9 million,
and a decrease in the fair value of $0.2 million, respectively in "Other, net" of the consolidated statement of operations. See further discussion in “ Note (2), Investment
in Viking.”  

(3) Investment in warrants, which we received as a result of Viking’s partial repayment of the Viking note receivable and our purchase of Viking common stock and
warrants in April 2016, is classified as level 1 as the fair value is determined using quoted market prices in active markets for the same securities. See further discussion
in “Note (2), Investment in Viking. ”

(4) The fair value of Crystal contingent liabilities was determined using a probability weighted income approach. Most of the contingent payments are based on
development or regulatory milestones as defined in the merger agreement with Crystal. The fair value is subjective and is affected by changes in inputs to the valuation
model including management’s estimates regarding the timing and probability of achievement of certain developmental and regulatory milestones. At

69

December 31, 2018, most of the development and regulatory milestones were estimated to be highly probable of being achieved in 2019. Changes in these estimates
may materially affect the fair value.

(5) The fair value of CyDex contingent liabilities was determined based on the income approach. To the extent the estimated future income may vary significantly
given the long-term nature of the estimate, we utilize a Monte Carlo model. The fair value is subjective and is affected by changes in inputs to the valuation model
including management’s estimates of timing and probability of achievement of certain revenue thresholds and developmental and regulatory milestones which may be
achieved and affect amounts owed to former license holders.

(6) In connection with our acquisition of Metabasis in January 2010, we issued Metabasis stockholders four tradable CVRs, one CVR from each of four respective
series of CVR, for each Metabasis share. The CVRs entitle Metabasis stockholders to cash payments as frequently as every six months as cash is received by us from
proceeds from the sale or partnering of any of the Metabasis drug development programs, among other triggering events. The liability for the CVRs is determined
using quoted prices in a market that is not active for the underlying CVR. The carrying amount of the liability may fluctuate significantly based upon quoted market
prices and actual amounts paid under the agreements may be materially different than the carrying amount of the liability. Several of the Metabasis drug development
programs have been outlicensed to Viking, including VK2809. VK2809 is a novel selective TR-β agonist with potential in multiple indications, including
hypercholesterolemia, dyslipidemia, NASH, and X-ALD. Under the terms of the agreement with Viking, we may be entitled to up to $375.0 million of development,
regulatory and commercial milestones and tiered royalties on potential future sales including a $10.0 million payment upon initiation of a Phase 3 clinical trial. Another
Metabasis drug development program, RVT-1502, has been outlicensed to Metavant. RVT-1502 is a novel, orally-bioavailable, small molecule, glucagon receptor
antagonist or “GRA.” We may be entitled to up to $529.0 million in milestone payments and royalties.

(7) The liability for amounts owed to a former licensor is determined using quoted market prices in active markets for the underlying investment received from a
partner, a portion of which is owed to a former licensor.

A reconciliation of the level 3 financial instruments as of December 31, 2018 is as follows (in thousands):

Assets:
Fair value of level 3 financial instruments as of December 31, 2017
Cash payment received as repayment of note receivable

Fair value of level 3 financial instrument assets as of December 31, 2018

Liabilities
Fair value of level 3 financial instruments as of December 31, 2017
Payments to CVR holders and other contingency payments
Fair value adjustments to contingent liabilities

Fair value of level 3 financial instruments as of December 31, 2018

Assets Measured on a Non-Recurring Basis

$

$

$

$

3,877 

(3,877)
— 

9,990 
(1,025)
(1,974)
6,991 

We apply fair value techniques on a non-recurring basis associated with valuing potential impairment losses related to
our goodwill, indefinite-lived intangible assets, long-lived assets, and equity investments.

We evaluate goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets annually for impairment and whenever circumstances occur indicating
that goodwill might be impaired. We determine the fair value of our reporting unit based on a combination of inputs, including the
market capitalization of Ligand, as well as Level 3 inputs such as discounted cash flows, which are not observable from the market, directly
or indirectly. We determine the fair value of our indefinite-lived intangible assets using the income approach based on Level 3 inputs.

Other than certain indefinite-lived intangible asset, there were no impairment of our goodwill, indefinite-lived assets, or long-lived assets
recorded during the three years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016.

Fair Value of Financial Instruments

In August 2014 and May 2018, we issued the 2019 Notes and 2023 Notes, respectively. We use quoted market rates in an inactive market,
which are classified as a Level 2 input, to estimate the current fair value of our 2019 and 2023 Notes. The carrying value of the notes does
not reflect the market rate. See “Note (6), Convertible Senior Notes” for additional information related to the fair value.

70

5. Lease Obligations

We lease office facilities under various operating leases. These leases expire between 2019 and 2023. Total rent expense, net under all
office leases for 2018, 2017 and 2016 was $1.0 million, $0.3 million and $0.3 million, respectively. The following table provides a
summary of operating lease obligations and payments expected to be received from sublease agreements as of December 31, 2018 (in
thousands):

Operating lease obligations:

Corporate headquarters - San Diego, CA
Office and research facility - La Jolla, CA
Bioscience and Technology Business Center - Lawrence,
KS
Office - Emeryville, CA
Research Facility - Emeryville, CA
Office - Winnersh, United Kingdom
Research Facility - Cambridge, United Kingdom

Total operating lease obligations

Sublease payments expected to be received:
Office and research facility - La Jolla, CA

Net operating lease obligations

Lease
Termination
Date
April 2023
June 2019

December 2020
August 2021
August 2021
April 2019
September 2019

June 2019

$

$

$

Less than 1
year

1-2 years

3-4 years

Total

$

135 
373 

57 
260 
203 
43 
549 

$

283 
— 

56 
455 
351 
— 
— 

$

$

198 
— 

— 
— 
— 
— 
— 

616 
373 

113 
715 
554 
43 
549 

1,620 

$

1,145 

$

198 

$

2,963 

360 

— 

— 

1,260 

$

1,145 

$

198 

$

360 

2,603 

6. Convertible Senior Notes

0.75% Convertible Senior Notes due 2019

In August 2014, we issued $245.0 million aggregate principal amount of 2019 Notes, resulting in net proceeds of $ 239.3 million. The
implied estimated effective rate of the liability component of the 2019 Notes was 5.83%. The 2019 Notes are convertible into common
stock at an initial conversion rate of 13.3251 shares per $1,000 principal amount of convertible notes, subject to adjustment upon certain
events, which is equivalent to an initial conversion price of approximately $75.05 per share of common stock. The notes bear cash interest
at a rate of 0.75% per year, payable semi-annually.

Holders of the 2019 Notes may convert the notes at any time prior to the close of business on the business day immediately preceding May
15, 2019, under any of the following circumstances:

(1) during any fiscal quarter (and only during such fiscal quarter) commencing after December 31, 2014, if,

for at least 20 trading days (whether or not consecutive) during the 30 consecutive trading day period ending on the last trading day of the
immediately preceding fiscal quarter, the last reported sale price of our common stock on such trading day is greater than 130% of the
conversion price on such trading day;

(2) during the five business day period immediately following any 10 consecutive trading day period, in which the trading price
per $1,000 principal amount of notes was less than 98% of the product of the last reported sale price of our common stock on such trading
day and the conversion rate on each such trading day; or

(3) upon the occurrence of certain specified corporate events as specified in the indenture governing the notes.

As of December 31, 2017, our last reported sale price of our common stock exceeded the 130% threshold described above and
accordingly the 2019 Notes were classified as a current liability. As a result, the related unamortized discount of $18.9 million at December
31, 2017, was classified as temporary equity component of currently redeemable convertible notes on our consolidated balance sheet.

As of December 31, 2018, our 2019 Notes are due in less than one year, and accordingly have been classified as a current liability. Under
the original indenture conversion, we were obligated to deliver cash to settle the principal and may deliver cash or shares of common stock,
at our option, to settle any premium due upon conversion for any conversion notices received prior 

71

to May 22, 2018. We made an irrevocable election to settle the entire note in cash per a supplemental indenture entered into on May 22,
2018. As such, we must deliver cash to settle the principal and any premium due upon conversion for any conversion notices received on or
after May 22, 2018.

As a result of the requirement to deliver cash to settle any premium due upon conversion, on May 22, 2018, we reclassified from equity to
liability the conversion option (a derivative) fair value of $341.6 million. In accordance with ASC 815, Derivatives and Hedging, the
derivative was adjusted to its fair value as of December 31, 2018 to $23.4 million with the resulting $118.7 million increase, net of
payments made, reflected in other expense, net, in our consolidated statements of operations for the year ended December 31, 2018.

In March and April 2018, we received notices for conversion of $21.8 million of principal amount of the 2019 Notes which were settled
in May and June 2018. We paid the noteholders the conversion value of the notes in cash, up to the principal amount of the 2019 Notes.
The excess of the conversion value over the principal amount, totaling $31.6 million, was paid in shares of common stock. In July
and August 2018, we received notices for conversion of $195.9 million of principal amount of the 2019 Notes which were settled in
October and November 2018. We paid the noteholders the $195.9 million principal amount and the excess of conversion value over the
principal amount, totaling $439.6 million, in cash. The equity dilution and cash conversion premium payment upon conversion of the 2019
Notes was offset by the reacquisition of the shares and cash under the convertible bond hedge transactions entered into in connection with
the offering of the 2019 Notes. As a result of the conversions, we recorded a $3.2 million loss on extinguishment of debt calculated as the
difference between the estimated fair value of the debt and the carrying value of the 2019 Notes as of the settlement dates. To measure the
fair value of the converted 2019 Notes as of the settlement dates, the applicable interest rates were estimated using Level 2 observable
inputs and applied to the converted notes using the same methodology as in the issuance date valuation.

 Convertible Bond Hedge and Warrant Transactions

In August 2014, to minimize the impact of potential dilution to our common stock upon conversion of the 2019 Notes, we entered into
convertible bond hedges and sold warrants covering 3,264,643 shares of our common stock. The convertible bond hedges have an exercise
price of $75.05 per share and are exercisable when and if the 2019 Notes are converted. If upon conversion of the 2019 Notes, the price of
our common stock is above the exercise price of the convertible bond hedges, the counterparties will deliver shares of common stock
and/or cash with an aggregate value approximately equal to the difference between the price of common stock at the conversion date and
the exercise price, multiplied by the number of shares of common stock related to the convertible bond hedge transaction being exercised.
The convertible bond hedges and warrants described below are separate transactions entered into by us and are not part of the terms of the
2019 Notes. Holders of the 2019 Notes and warrants will not have any rights with respect to the convertible bond hedges. We paid $48.1
million for these convertible bond hedges and recorded the amount as a reduction to additional paid-in capital.

Conversion notices received after May 22, 2018 relating to the 2019 Notes must be fully settled in cash and amounts paid in excess of
the principal amount will be offset by an equal receipt of cash under the convertible bond hedge. As a result of the irrevocable cash
election, on May 22, 2018, we reclassified from equity to derivative asset the remaining bond hedge fair value of $340.0 million and
marked it to market as of December 31, 2018 to $22.6 million with the resulting $119.4 million increase, net of $471.2 million in payments
received, reflected in other expense, net, in our consolidated statements of operations for the year ended December 31, 2018.

Concurrently with the convertible bond hedge transactions, we entered into warrant transactions whereby we sold warrants to
acquire 3,264,643 shares of common stock with an exercise price of $125.08 per share, subject to certain adjustments. The warrants have
various expiration dates ranging from November 13, 2019 to April 22, 2020. The warrants will have a dilutive effect to the extent the
market price per share of common stock exceeds the applicable exercise price of the warrants, as measured under the terms of the warrant
transactions. We received $11.6 million for these warrants and recorded this amount to additional paid-in capital. The common stock
issuable upon exercise of the warrants will be in unregistered shares, and we do not have the obligation and do not intend to file any
registration statement with the SEC registering the issuance of the shares under the warrants. We continue to have the ability to
avoid settling the warrants associated with the 2019 Notes in cash after May 22, 2018. Accordingly, the warrants continue to be classified
in additional paid in capital.

72

  
  
In November 2018, we modified agreements with one of the bond hedge counterparties to cash settle a total of 525,000 warrants. As the
modifications required the warrants to be cash settled, the fair value of the warrants was reclassified from stockholders’ equity to a
derivative liability on the modification dates, resulting in a $28.3 million deduction to additional paid-in-capital during 2018. We settled
these repurchases for total consideration of $30.1 million and recorded a $1.8 million loss during 2018 on the change in the fair value of
the derivative liabilities between their modification and settlement dates, which is included in other expense, net in the accompanying
consolidated statement of operations. As a result, as of December 31, 2018, 2,739,643 warrants remain outstanding.

0.75% Convertible Senior Notes due 2023

In May 2018, we issued $750 million aggregate principal amount of 2023 Notes, bearing cash interest at a rate of 0.75% per year, payable
semi-annually. The net proceeds from the offering, after deducting the initial purchasers' discount and offering expenses, were
approximately $733.1 million. The 2023 Notes will be convertible into cash, shares of common stock, or a combination of cash and shares
of common stock, at our election, based on an initial conversion rate, subject to adjustment, of 4.0244 shares per $1,000 principal amount
of the 2023 Notes which represents an initial conversion price of approximately $248.48 per share.

Holders of the 2023 Notes may convert the notes at any time prior to the close of business on the business day immediately
preceding November 15, 2022, under any of the following circumstances:

(1) during any fiscal quarter (and only during such fiscal quarter) commencing after September 30, 2018, if, for at
least 20 trading days (whether or not consecutive) during the 30 consecutive trading day period ending on the last trading day of the
immediately preceding fiscal quarter, the last reported sale price of our common stock on such trading day is greater than 130% of
the conversion price on such trading day;

(2) during the five business day period immediately following any 10 consecutive trading day period, in which the trading price
per $1,000 principal amount of notes was less than 98% of the product of the last reported sale price of our common stock on such trading
day and the conversion rate on each such trading day; or

(3) upon the occurrence of certain specified corporate events as specified in the indenture governing the notes.

At the May 22, 2018 issuance date of the 2023 Notes, we did not have the necessary number of authorized but unissued shares of our
common stock available to settle the conversion option of the 2023 Notes in shares. Therefore, in accordance with guidance found in
ASC 815-15 – Embedded Derivatives, the conversion option of the Notes was deemed an embedded derivative requiring bifurcation from
the 2023 Notes (host contract) and separate accounting as a derivative liability. The fair value of the conversion option derivative liability
at May 22, 2018 was $144.0 million, which was recorded as a reduction to the carrying value of the debt. This debt discount is amortized
to interest expense over the term of the debt using the effective interest method. Up to the date in which we received shareholder approval
on June 19, 2018 to increase the authorized number of shares of our common stock, the conversion option was accounted for as a liability
with the resulting change in fair value of $13.5 million during that period reflected in other expense, net, in our consolidated statements of
operations for the year ended December 31, 2018. As of December 31, 2018, the debt discount remains and continues to be amortized to
interest expense.

The notes will have a dilutive effect to the extent the average market price per share of common stock for a given reporting period
exceeds the conversion price of $248.48. As of December 31, 2018, the “if-converted value” did not exceed the principal amount of the
2023 Notes.

In connection with the issuance of the 2023 Notes, we incurred $ 16.9 million of issuance costs, which primarily consisted of
underwriting, legal and other professional fees. The portion of these costs allocated to the conversion option totaling $3.2 million was
recorded as interest expense for the twelve months ended December 31, 2018. The portion of these costs allocated to the liability
component totaling $13.7 million is amortized to interest expense using the effective interest method over the five year expected life of the
2023 Notes.

It is our intent and policy to settle conversions through combination settlement, which essentially involves payment in cash equal to
the principal portion and delivery of shares of common stock for the excess of the conversion value over the principal portion.

Convertible Bond Hedge and Warrant Transactions

73

In conjunction with the 2023 Notes, in May 2018, we entered into convertible bond hedges and sold warrants covering 3,018,327 shares
of our common stock to minimize the impact of potential dilution to our common stock and/or offset the cash payments we are required
to make in excess of the principal amount upon conversion of the 2023 Notes. The convertible bond hedges have an exercise price of
$248.48 per share and are exercisable when and if the 2023 Notes are converted. We paid $140.3 million for these convertible bond hedges.
If upon conversion of the 2023 Notes, the price of our common stock is above the exercise price of the convertible bond hedges, the
counterparties will deliver shares of common stock and/or cash with an aggregate value approximately equal to the difference between the
price of common stock at the conversion date and the exercise price, multiplied by the number of shares of common stock related to the
convertible bond hedge transaction being exercised. The convertible bond hedges and warrants described below are separate transactions
entered into by us and are not part of the terms of the 2023 Notes. Holders of the 2023 Notes and warrants will not have any rights with
respect to the convertible bond hedges.

Concurrently with the convertible bond hedge transactions, we entered into warrant transactions whereby we sold warrants
covering 3,018,327 shares of common stock with an exercise price of $315.38 per share, subject to certain adjustments. We received $90.0
million for these warrants. The warrants have various expiration dates ranging from August 15, 2023 to February 6, 2024. The warrants
will have a dilutive effect to the extent the market price per share of common stock exceeds the applicable exercise price of the warrants, as
measured under the terms of the warrant transactions. The common stock issuable upon exercise of the warrants will be in unregistered
shares, and we do not have the obligation and do not intend to file any registration statement with the SEC registering the issuance of the
shares under the warrants.

For the period from May 22, 2018, the issuance date of the bond hedge and warrant transactions, to June 19, 2018, the date
shareholders approved an increase in our authorized shares of common stock, the bond hedges and warrants required cash settlement and
were accounted for as a derivative asset and liability, respectively, with the resulting increase in fair value of $19.2 million and $7.5
million reflected in other expense, net, in our consolidated statements of operations for twelve months ended December 31, 2018.

The following table summarizes information about the equity and liability components of the 2019 Notes and 2023 Notes (in thousands).

Principle amount of 2019 Notes outstanding
Unamortized discount (including unamortized debt issuance cost)

Total current portion of notes payable

Principle amount of 2023 Notes outstanding
Unamortized discount (including unamortized debt issuance cost)

Total long-term portion of notes payable

Carrying value of equity component of 2023 Notes
Fair value of convertible senior notes outstanding (Level 2)

$

$

$

$

$
$

December 31, 2018

27,326 
(893)
26,433 

750,000 
(140,136)
609,864 

127,997 
713,533 

$

$

$

$

$
$

December 31, 2017
245,000 
(20,471)
224,529 

— 
— 
— 

— 
446,360 

As of December 31, 2018, there were no events of default or violation of any covenants under our financing obligations.

7. Balance Sheet Account Details

Short-term Investments

74

The following table summarizes the various investment categories at December 31, 2018 and 2017 (in thousands):
Gross unrealized
losses

Gross unrealized
gains

Cost

December 31, 2018
Short-term investments
Bank deposits
Corporate bonds
Corporate equity securities
Commercial paper
U.S. Government bonds
Municipal bonds

December 31, 2017
Short-term investments
Bank deposits
Corporate bonds
Corporate equity securities
Commercial paper
Agency bonds
U.S. Government bonds
Municipal bonds

$

$

$

$

311,066  $
53,223 
135 
225,731 
7,982 
2,017 
600,154  $

80,095  $
55,335 
207 
27,933 
4,991 
8,939 
2,028 
179,528  $

26  $
1 
1,191 
8 
— 
— 
1,226  $

6  $
— 
1689 
— 
— 
— 
— 
1,695  $

(29) $
(45)
— 
(76)
(9)
(4)
(163) $

(42) $
(96)
— 
(20)
(1)
(10)
(13)
(182) $

Estimated
fair value

311,063 
53,179 
1,326 
225,663 
7,973 
2,013 
601,217 

80,059 
55,239 
1,896 
27,913 
4,990 
8,929 
2,015 
181,041 

Other current assets consist of the following (in thousands):

Restricted cash
Investment in Viking warrants
Other

Property and equipment is stated at cost and consists of the following (in thousands):

Lab and office equipment
Leasehold improvements
Computer equipment and software

Less accumulated depreciation and amortization

December 31,

2018

2017

2,616  $
9,257 
8,545 
20,418  $

— 
— 
1,514 
1,514 

December 31,

2018

2017

4,183  $
2,418 
936 
7,537 
(2,165)
5,372  $

3,460 
1,917 
697 
6,074 
(1,862)
4,212 

$

$

$

$

Depreciation of equipment is computed using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets which range from three
to ten years. Leasehold improvements are amortized using the straight-line method over their estimated useful lives or their related lease
term, whichever is shorter. Depreciation expense of $0.9 million, $0.4 million, and $0.2 million was recognized for the years ended
December 31, 2018, 2017, and 2016, respectively, and is included in operating expenses.

75

 
 
Goodwill and identifiable intangible assets consist of the following (in thousands):

Indefinite lived intangible assets
IPR&D
Goodwill
Definite lived intangible assets
Complete technology
Less: Accumulated amortization
Trade name
Less: Accumulated amortization
Customer relationships
Less: Accumulated amortization
Total goodwill and other identifiable intangible assets, net

December 31,

2018

2017

$

$

—  $

86,646 

235,413 
(35,070)
2,642 
(1,048)
29,600 
(11,744)
306,439  $

7,923 
85,959 

222,900 
(23,301)
2,642 
(916)
29,600 
(10,264)
314,543 

Amortization of finite lived intangible assets is computed using the straight-line method over the estimated useful life of the asset of 20
years. Amortization expense of $15.8 million, $11.3 million, and $10.6 million was recognized for the years ended December 31, 2018
and 2017, and 2016, respectively. Estimated amortization expense for the years ending December 31, 2018 through 2023 is $13.6 million
per year. For each of the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017, and 2016, there was no impairment of intangible assets with finite lives.

Accrued liabilities consist of the following (in thousands):

Compensation
Legal
Amounts owed to former licensees
Royalties owed to third parties
Payments due to broker for share repurchases
Return reserve
Restructuring
Other

Contingent liabilities:

December 31,

2018

2017

$

$

4,045  $
942 
428 
1,025 
4,613 
3,590 
1,093 
3,464 
19,200  $

4,085 
430 
396 
954 
— 
— 
— 
1,512 
7,377 

In connection with the acquisition of CyDex in January 2011, we issued a series of CVRs and also assumed certain contingent liabilities.
We may be required to make additional payments upon achievement of certain clinical and regulatory milestones to the CyDex
shareholders and former license holders. We paid CyDex shareholders, through 2016, 20% of all CyDex-related revenue, but only to the
extent that, and beginning only when, CyDex-related revenue for the year exceeds $15.0 million; plus an additional 10% of all CyDex-
related revenue recognized during such year, but only to the extent, and beginning only when aggregate CyDex-related revenue for such
year exceeds $35.0 million.

In connection with the acquisition of Metabasis in January 2010, we entered into four CVR agreements with Metabasis shareholders. The
CVRs entitle the holders to cash payments as frequently as every six months as proceeds are received by us upon the sale or licensing of
any of the Metabasis drug development programs and upon the achievement of specified milestones.

76

 
 
 
The following table summarizes contingent liabilities as of December 2018 and 2017 (in thousands):

December 31,
2016

Payments

Fair Value
Adjustment

Additions

December 31,
2017

Payments

Fair Value
Adjustment

December 31,
2018

Cydex
Metabasis
Crystal

$
$
$

Total $

6,600  $
1,500  $
—  $

8,100  $

(5,000) $
—  $
—  $

(5,000) $

—  $
2,500  $
—  $

2,500  $

—  $
—  $
8,400  $

8,400  $

1,600  $
4,000  $
8,400  $

14,000  $

(25) $
(3,900) $
(1,000) $

(4,925) $

(1,050) $
5,400  $
(924) $

3,426  $

525 
5,500 
6,476 

12,501 

8. Stockholders’ Equity

Share-based Compensation Expense

The following table summarizes share-based compensation expense (in thousands):

Share-based compensation expense as a component of:
Research and development expenses
General and administrative expenses

Stock Plans

2018

December 31,

2017

2016

$

$

8,352  $

12,494 
20,846  $

14,235  $
10,680 
24,915  $

8,836 
10,057 
18,893 

In May 2012 and May 2016, our 2002 Stock Incentive Plan was amended to increase the number of shares available for issuance by 1.8
million  and 0.9 million shares, respectively. As of December 31, 2018, there were 0.6 million shares available for future option grants or
direct issuance under the Amended 2002 Plan.

Following is a summary of our stock option plan activity and related information:

Balance at December 31, 2017
Granted
Exercised
Forfeited
Balance at December 31, 2018
Exercisable at December 31, 2018

Options vested and expected to vest as of December 31, 2018

Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price

53.17 
162.00 
55.24 
114.53 
66.71 

47.03 
66.71 

Shares

1,876,332  $
228,362 
(358,162)
(10,228)
1,736,304 

1,313,374 
1,734,304  $

Weighted
Average
Remaining
Contractual
Term in
Years

Aggregate
Intrinsic
Value
(In  thousands)

5.77 $

157,340 

5.47

4.56
5.47 $

125,858 

117,314 
125,858 

The weighted-average grant-date fair value of all stock options granted during 2018, 2017 and 2016 was $66.71, $53.17 and $46.53 per
share, respectively. The total intrinsic value of all options exercised during 2018, 2017 and 2016 was approximately $51.9 million, $13.3
million and $12.0 million, respectively.

Cash received from options exercised, net of fees paid, in 2018, 2017 and 2016 was $19.8 million, $4.7 million and $6.2 million,
respectively.

77

 
Following is a further breakdown of the options outstanding as of December 31, 2018:

Range of exercise prices
$8.58 - $10.05
$10.12 - $12.81
$14.47 - $14.47
$16.14 - $17.88
$21.92 - $21.92
$32.00 - $56.26
$63.58 - $67.53
$74.42 - $74.42
$85.79 - $100.38
$101.15 - $195.91

Options
outstanding

Weighted
average
remaining  life
in years

Weighted average
exercise price

Options
exercisable

Weighted average
exercise price

184,702 
46,510 
217,616 
38,790 
200,372 
182,767 
20,434 
190,825 
299,282 
353,006 
1,734,304 

1.87 $
2.92
3.11
0.17
4.13
5.70
5.44
5.12
7.57
8.79
5.47 $

10.00 
11.40 
14.47 
16.36 
21.92 
50.38 
67.42 
74.42 
93.32 
148.50 
66.71 

184,702  $
46,510 
203,616 
38,790 
200,372 
174,470 
20,153 
190,825 
157,872 
96,064 
1,313,374  $

10.00 
11.40 
14.47 
16.36 
21.92 
50.10 
67.47 
74.42 
91.62 
131.77 
47.03 

The assumptions used for the specified reporting periods and the resulting estimates of weighted-average grant date fair value per share of
options granted:

Risk-free interest rate
Expected volatility
Expected term

Year Ended December 31,

2018
2.7%-3.0%
33%-36%
5.1 to 5.8 years

2017
2.0%-2.2%
43%-47%
6.5 to 6.8 years

2016
1.3%-1.9%
48%-50%
6.6 to 6.7 years

As of December 31, 2018, there was $20.4 million of total unrecognized compensation cost related to non-vested stock options. That cost is
expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of 2.39 years.

Restricted Stock Activity

The following is a summary of our restricted stock activity and related information:

Outstanding at December 31, 2017
Granted
Vested
Forfeited
Outstanding at December 31, 2018

Shares

Weighted-Average
Grant Date Fair
Value

133,294  $
62,133 
(61,989)
(1,165)
132,273  $

91.60 
169.92 
86.19 
125.16 
130.63 

As of December 31, 2018, unrecognized compensation cost related to non-vested stock awards amounted to $9.2 million. That cost is
expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of 1.38 years.

Employee Stock Purchase Plan

As of December 31, 2018, 64,008 shares of our common stock are available for future issuance under the Amended Employee Stock
Purchase Plan, or ESPP. The ESPP permits eligible employees to purchase up to 1,250 shares of Ligand common stock per calendar year at
a discount through payroll deductions. The price at which stock is purchased under the ESPP is equal to 85% of the fair market value of the
common stock on the first of a six month offering period or purchase date, whichever is lower. There were 3,386, 3,061 and 1,961 shares
issued under the ESPP in 2018, 2017 and 2016, respectively.

Share Repurchases

78

 
 
 
 
In May 2018, in conjunction with our 2023 Notes debt offering, we repurchased 260,000 shares of our common stock at a cost of $191.14
per share. In September 2018, the board of directors authorized us to repurchase up to $200.0 million of our common stock from time to
time over a period of up to three years (the “Repurchase Program”). As of December 31, 2018, $125.2 million remains available for
repurchase under the authorized program. On January 23, 2019, the board of directors elected to increase the Repurchase Program,
authorizing us to repurchase up to a maximum of $350.0 million of our outstanding common stock under the Repurchase Program. The
Repurchase Program will expire, as originally scheduled, on September 20, 2021. Since December 31, 2018 and as of February 28, 2019,
we acquired 400,177 additional shares during 2019, and the maximum dollar value of shares that may yet be purchased under the
Repurchase Program was $225.9 million.

During the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016, we repurchased 782,248 shares for $127.5 million, 14,000 shares for $2.0
million, and 40,500 shares for $3.9 million, respectively.  

9.  Commitment and Contingencies: Legal Proceedings

We record an estimate of a loss when the loss is considered probable and estimable. Where a liability is probable and there is a range of
estimated loss and no amount in the range is more likely than any other number in the range, we record the minimum estimated liability
related to the claim in accordance with ASC 450, Contingencies. As additional information becomes available, we assess the potential
liability related to our pending litigation and revises our estimates. Revisions in the our estimates of potential liability could materially
impact our results of operations.

On July 27, 2018, AG Oncon, LLC, AG Ofcon, Ltd., Calamos Market Neutral Income Fund, Capital Ventures International, Citadel Equity
Fund Ltd., Opti Opportunity Master Fund, Polygon Convertible Opportunity Master Fund, Wolverine Flagship Fund Trading Limited, as
plaintiffs, filed a complaint in the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware (AG Oncon, LLC v. Ligand Pharmaceuticals Inc.) alleging
claims for violation of the Trust Indenture Act, breach of contract, damages and a declaratory judgment that the Supplemental Indenture,
dated as of February 20, 2018, entered into by us and Wilmington Trust, National Association, as trustee, is invalid. On October 1, 2018,
we filed a motion to dismiss the plaintiffs’ complaint. The hearing on our motion is currently scheduled for April 3, 2019. We believe the
allegations are completely without merit, reject all claims raised by the plaintiffs and intend to vigorously defend this matter.

In November 2017, CyDex, our wholly owned subsidiary, received a paragraph IV certification from Teva alleging that certain of our
patents related to Captisol were invalid, unenforceable and/or will not be infringed by Teva’s ANDA related to Spectrum Pharmaceuticals’
NDA for Evomela. On December 20, 2017, CyDex filed a complaint against Teva in the U.S. District Court for the District of Delaware,
asserting that Teva’s ANDA would infringe our patents. On March 22, 2018, Teva filed an answer and counterclaims seeking declarations
of non-infringement and invalidity as to each of the asserted patents and on April 12, 2018, CyDex filed an answer to Teva’s counterclaims.
On July 24, 2018, the U.S. District Court entered a Scheduling Order, setting a hearing for April 1, 2019, and a trial may begin in January
2020.

10. Income Taxes

The Tax Act was enacted on December 22, 2017 and includes a number of changes to existing tax laws that impact us, most notably it
reduces the US federal corporate tax rate from 35% to 21%, for tax years beginning after December 31, 2017. The Tax Act made
modifications to allowable tax depreciation, the deductability of compensation for officers, the deductibility of meals and entertainment
expenses, and the deductibility of interest expense.

We remeasured our deferred tax assets and liabilities based on the impact of the federal tax rate change, recording a decrease to our net
deferred tax asset balance and a corresponding increase to our income tax provision of approximately $0.6 million and $32.4 million for the
year ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively. We completed our accounting for the Tax Act during the fourth quarter of 2018.

79

The components of the income tax expense (benefit) for continuing operations are as follows (in thousands):

Current expense (benefit):

Federal
State
Foreign

Deferred expense (benefit):

Federal
State
Foreign

Year Ended December 31,
2017

2018

2016

$

—  $

424 
(158)
266 

29,928 
(185)
— 
30,009  $

$

—  $
111 
261 
372 

44,075 
228 
— 
44,675  $

21 
12 
— 
33 

10,534 
(240)
— 
10,327 

A reconciliation of income tax expense (benefit) from continuing operations to the amount computed by applying the statutory federal
income tax rate to the net income (loss) from continuing operations is summarized as follows (in thousands):

Tax at federal statutory rate
State, net of federal benefit
Contingent liabilities
Share-based compensation
Research and development credits
Change in uncertain tax positions
Rate change for changes in federal or state law
Change in valuation allowance
Expired NOLs and credits
Change in derivatives
Other

Year Ended December 31,

2018

2017

2016

$

$

36,400  $
1,635 
948 
(8,131)
(2,758)
858 
178 
(4,225)
3,054 
615 
1,435 
30,009  $

20,031  $
622 
903 
(4,019)
(2,821)
1,308 
32,429 
(4,169)
— 
— 
391 
44,675  $

2,786 
175 
1,225 
263 
(1,525)
1,423 
25 
6,283 
— 
— 
(328)
10,327 

We remeasured certain deferred tax assets and liabilities based on the rates at which they are expected to reverse in the future, which is
generally 21%.  Significant components of our deferred tax assets and liabilities as of December 31, 2018 and 2017 are shown below. We
assess the positive and negative evidence to determine if sufficient future taxable income will be generated to use the existing deferred tax
assets. Our evaluation of evidence resulted in management concluding that the majority of our deferred tax assets will be realized.
However, we maintain a valuation allowance to offset certain net deferred tax assets as management believes realization of such assets are
uncertain as of December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016. The valuation allowance decreased $2.5 million in 2018, decreased $8.4 million in
2017 and increased $6.3 million in 2016.

80

 
 
 
 
 
Deferred tax assets:

Net operating loss carryforwards
Research credit carryforwards
Fixed assets and intangibles
Accrued expenses
Deferred revenue
Capital Loss Carryforward
Investment in Viking
Other

Valuation allowance for deferred tax assets
Net deferred tax assets

Deferred tax liabilities:

Retrophin fair value adjustment
Convertible debt
Identified intangibles
Identified indefinite lived intangibles
Investment in Viking
Net deferred tax liabilities
Deferred income taxes, net

December 31,

2018

2017

(in thousands)

$

$

$
$

57,181  $
31,101 
1,637 
657 
957 
— 
— 
11,430 
102,963 
(4,476)
98,487  $

(179)
(2,905)
(44,643)
(1,759)
(2,480)
(51,966) $
46,521  $

90,272 
30,677 
1,984 
845 
17 
1,609 
5,137 
12,499 
143,040 
(6,987)
136,053 

(243)
(737)
(48,237)
(2,414)
— 
(51,631)
84,422 

As of December 31, 2018, we had federal net operating loss carryforwards set to expire through 2037 of $229.9 million and $125.3 million
of state net operating loss carryforwards. We also have $23.0 million of federal research and development credit carryforwards, which
expire through 2037. We have $22.7 million of California research and development credit carryforwards that have no expiration date.  

Pursuant to Section 382 and 383 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, utilization of our net operating losses and credits may
be subject to annual limitations in the event of any significant future changes in its ownership structure. These annual limitations may result
in the expiration of net operating losses and credits prior to utilization. The deferred tax assets as of December 31, 2018 are net of any
previous limitations due to Section 382 and 383.

We account for income taxes by evaluating a probability threshold that a tax position must meet before a financial statement benefit is
recognized. The minimum threshold is a tax position that is more likely than not to be sustained upon examination by the applicable taxing
authority, including resolution of any related appeals or litigation processes, based on the technical merits of the position. Our remaining
liabilities for uncertain tax positions are presented net of the deferred tax asset balances on the accompanying consolidated balance sheet.

A reconciliation of the amount of unrecognized tax benefits at December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 is as follows (in thousands):

Balance at beginning of year

Additions based on tax positions related to the current year
Additions for tax positions of prior years
Reductions for tax positions of prior years

Balance at end of year

2018

December 31, 
2017

2016

$

$

29,363  $
1,247 
336 
(657)
30,289  $

38,770  $
1,067 
109 
(10,583)
29,363  $

36,452 
70 
2,408 
(160)
38,770 

Included in the balance of unrecognized tax benefits at December 31, 2018 is $ 28.2 million of tax benefits that, if recognized would impact
the effective rate. There are no positions for which it is reasonably possible that the uncertain tax benefit will significantly increase or
decrease within twelve months.

81

 
 
 
We recognize interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions in income tax expense. As of December 31, 2018 and December 31,
2017, we recognized an immaterial amount of interest and penalties. We file income tax returns in the United States, various state
jurisdictions, United Kingdom, and Canada with varying statutes of limitations. The federal statute of limitation remains open for the 2014
tax year to the present. The state income tax returns generally remain open for the 2013 tax year through the present.  Net operating loss
and research credit carryforwards arising prior to these years are also open to examination if and when utilized.

The IRS began an audit of our 2016 tax year during the quarter ended June 30, 2018. We believe our reserve for unrecognized tax benefits
and contingent tax issues is adequate with respect to all open years. Notwithstanding the foregoing, we could adjust our provision for
income taxes and contingent tax liability based on future developments.

11. Summary of Unaudited Quarterly Financial Information

The following financial information reflects all normal recurring adjustments, which are, in the opinion of management, necessary for a fair
statement of the results and cash flows of interim periods. Summarized quarterly data for 2018 and 2017 are as follows (in thousands,
except per share amounts):

First Quarter

Second Quarter

Third Quarter

Fourth Quarter

2018
Total revenues
Total operating costs and expenses
Income tax (expense) benefit
Net income (loss)
Basic per share amounts:
Net income (loss)
Diluted per share amounts:
Net income (loss)

Weighted average shares—basic
Weighted average shares—diluted

2017
Total revenues
Total operating costs and expenses
Income tax expense
Net income (loss)
Basic per share amounts:
Net income (loss)

Diluted per share amounts:

Net income (loss)

$

$

$

$

$

$

56,157  $
19,116 
(10,033)
45,279 

90,043  $
19,868 
(22,419)
73,160 

45,663  $
22,301 
(11,864)
67,362 

2.13  $

3.45  $

3.19  $

1.83  $

2.99  $

2.80  $

21,209 
24,800 

21,212 
24,438 

21,148 
24,052 

29,267  $
19,051 
(1,114)
5,079 

27,995  $
14,980 
(2,242)
6,058 

33,375  $
16,882 
(3,645)
8,426 

0.24  $

0.29  $

0.40  $

0.22  $

0.26  $

0.36  $

Weighted average shares—basic
Weighted average shares—diluted

20,938 
23,019 

21,013 
23,216 

21,071 
23,551 

Item 9.

Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure

None.

59,590 
26,441 
14,307 
(42,482)

(2.02)

(2.02)

21,071 
21,071 

50,465 
22,113 
(37,674)
(7,007)

(0.33)

(0.33)

21,109 
21,109 

Item 9A.

Controls and Procedures

(a) Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

82

 
 
We are responsible for maintaining disclosure controls and procedures designed to provide reasonable assurance that information
required to be disclosed in reports we file under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the specified
time periods and accumulated and communicated to management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as
appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure. The design of any system of controls is based in part upon certain
assumptions about the likelihood of future events, and there can be no assurance that any design will succeed in achieving its stated goals
under all potential future conditions; over time, controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or the degree of
compliance with policies or procedures may deteriorate. Because of the inherent limitations in a cost-effective control system,
misstatements due to error or fraud may occur and not be detected. As of the end of the period covered by this Annual Report on Form 10-
K, we have carried out an evaluation, under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our Chief Executive
Officer and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures, as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-
15(e) under the Exchange Act, and have concluded our disclosure controls and procedures were effective at a reasonable assurance level as
of December 31, 2018.

There have been no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended December 31,

2018 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

(b) Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

Management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting for the Company.
Internal control over financial reporting is a process to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of our financial reporting for
external purposes in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Internal control over
financial reporting includes maintaining records that in reasonable detail accurately and fairly reflect our transactions; providing reasonable
assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary for preparation of our financial statements in accordance with generally accepted
accounting principles; providing reasonable assurance that receipts and expenditures are made in accordance with our management and
directors; and providing reasonable assurance that
unauthorized acquisition, use or disposition of company assets that could have a material effect on our financial statements would be
prevented or detected on a timely basis. Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting is not intended to
provide absolute assurance that a misstatement of our financial statements would be prevented or detected.

Under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial

Officer, we conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting based on the framework established
by the COSO as set forth in the 2013 Internal Control-Integrated Framework. Based on our evaluation under the 2013 framework in
Internal Control - Integrated Framework, management concluded that our internal controls over financial reporting were effective as of
December 31, 2018.

Ernst & Young LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, has audited the Company’s consolidated financial

statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K and has issued an attestation report, included herein, on the effectiveness of our
internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2018.

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

83

The Board of Directors and Stockholders of Ligand Pharmaceuticals Incorporated

Opinion on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

We have audited Ligand Pharmaceuticals Incorporated’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2018, based on
criteria established in Internal Control-Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway
Commission (2013 framework) (the COSO criteria). In our opinion, Ligand Pharmaceuticals Incorporated (the Company) maintained, in
all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2018, based on the COSO criteria.

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB), the
consolidated balance sheets of the Company as of December 31, 2018 and 2017, the related consolidated statements of operations,
comprehensive income (loss), stockholders’ equity and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2018, and
the related notes and our report dated February 28, 2019 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.

Basis for Opinion

The Company’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the
effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting included in the accompanying Management’s Report on Internal Control Over
Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our
audit. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in
accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and
the PCAOB.

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to
obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects.

Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists,
testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk, and performing such other
procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

Definition and Limitations of Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of
financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting
principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance
of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide
reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally
accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of
management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized
acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of
any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in
conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

/s/ Ernst & Young LLP

San Diego, California
February 28, 2019

84

Item 9B.

Other Information

None.

Part III

Item 10.

Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance

Code of Conduct

The Board of Directors has adopted a Code of Conduct and Ethics Policy (“Code of Conduct”) that applies to all officers, directors
and employees. The Company will promptly disclose (1) the nature of any amendment to the Code of Conduct that applies to our principal
executive officer, principal financial officer, principal accounting officer or controller or persons performing similar functions and (2) the
nature of any waiver, including an implicit waiver, from a provision of our Code of Conduct that is granted to one of these specified
officers, the name of such person who is granted the waiver and the date of the waiver on our website in the future. The Code of Conduct
can be accessed via our website (http://www.ligand.com), Corporate Overview page. You may also request a free copy by writing to:
Investor Relations, Ligand Pharmaceuticals Incorporated, 3911 Sorrento Valley Blvd, Suite 110, San Diego, CA 92121.

The other information under Item 10 is hereby incorporated by reference to Ligand’s Definitive Proxy Statement to be filed with the

SEC within 120 days of December 31, 2018. 

Item 11.

Executive Compensation

Item 11 is hereby incorporated by reference to Ligand’s Definitive Proxy Statement to be filed with the SEC within 120 days of

December 31, 2018.

Item 12.

Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters

Item 12 is hereby incorporated by reference to Ligand’s Definitive Proxy Statement to be filed with the SEC within 120 days of

December 31, 2018.

Item 13.

Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence

Item 13 is hereby incorporated by reference to Ligand’s Definitive Proxy Statement to be filed with the SEC within 120 days of

December 31, 2018.

Item 14.

Principal Accountant Fees and Services

Item 14 is hereby incorporated by reference to Ligand’s Definitive Proxy Statement to be filed with the SEC within 120 days of

December 31, 2018.

85

 
 
 
 
 
PART IV

Item 15.

Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedule

(a) The following documents are included as part of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

(1) Financial statements

Index to Consolidated Financial Statements
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
Consolidated Balance Sheets
Consolidated Statements of Operations
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Consolidated Statements of Stockholders’ Equity (Deficit)
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

46
47
48
49
50
52
52
54

(2) Schedules not included herein have been omitted because they are not applicable or the required information is in the

consolidated financial statements or notes thereto.

(3) The following exhibits are filed as part of this Form 10-K and this list includes the Exhibit Index.

Exhibit
Number

2.1

2.2

3.1

3.2

3.3

3.4

3.5

4.1

4.2

4.3

4.4

4.5

Description of Exhibit 
Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of
December 17, 2015, by and among Ligand
Pharmaceuticals Incorporated, Open Monoclonal
Technology, Inc., OMT, LLC, Schrader 1
Acquisition, Inc., Schrader 2 Acquisition, Inc.
and Fortis Advisors LLC  
Rule 2.7 Announcement issued by Ligand
Holdings UK Ltd., dated August 9, 2018  
Amended and Restated Certificate of
Incorporation of the Company.  
Certificate of Amendment of the Amended and
Restated Certificate of Incorporation of the
Company, dated June 14, 2000  
Certificate of Amendment of the Amended and
Restated Certificate of Incorporation of the
Company, dated June 30, 2004  
Certificate of Amendment of the Amended and
Restated Certificate of Incorporation of the
Company, dated November 17, 2010 
Third Amended and Restated Bylaws of the
Company 
Specimen stock certificate for shares of the
common stock of the Company 
Indenture dated August 18, 2014 between the
Company and Wilmington Trust, National
Association  
Supplemental Indenture, dated as of February
20, 2018, between the Company and
Wilmington Trust, National Association, as
trustee 
Second Supplemental Indenture, dated as of May
22, 2018, between the Company and
Wilmington Trust, National Association, as
trustee 
Indenture, dated as of May 22, 2018, between
the Company and Wilmington Trust, National
Association, as trustee, including the form of
0.75% Convertible Senior Notes due 2023 

Incorporated by Reference 

Form 

File Number  Date of Filing 

Exhibit
Number

Filed
Herewith

8-K 

8-K 

S-4 

001-33093 

December 18, 2015 

001-33093 

August 9, 2018 

333-58823 

July 9, 1998 

2.1 

2.1 

3.1 

10-K 

0-20720 

March 29, 2001 

3.5 

10-Q 

0-20720 

August 5, 2004 

3.6 

8-K 

8-K 

001-33093 

November 19, 2010 

3.1 

001-33093 

September 10, 2015 

3.1 

10-K 

001-33093 

March 1, 2018 

4.1 

8-K 

001-33093 

August 18, 2014 

4.1 

8-K 

001-33093 

July 30, 2018 

4.1 

8-K 

001-33093 

May 22, 2018 

4.2 

8-K 

001-33093 

May 22, 2018 

4.1 

86

 
 
 
10.1#

10.2#

10.3#

10.4#

10.5#

10.6#

10.7#

10.8#

10.9#

10.10†

10.11†

10.12

10.13

10.14

10.15

10.16

10.17†

10.18†

10.19

10.20†

2002 Stock Incentive Plan (as amended and restated
through May 23, 2016) 
2002 Employee Stock Purchase Plan (as amended
effective July 1, 2009) 
Form of Stock Option Grant Notice and Stock Option
Agreement under the Company’s 2002 Stock Incentive
Plan 
Form of Stock Issuance Agreement for non-employee
directors under the Company’s 2002 Stock Incentive
Plan
Form of Letter Agreement regarding Change of
Control Severance Benefits between the Company and
its officers
Form of Restricted Stock Unit Grant Notice and
Restricted Stock Unit Agreement under the Company’s
2002 Stock Incentive Plan  
Form of Restricted Stock Unit Grant Notice and
Restricted Stock Unit Agreement under the Company’s
2002 Stock Incentive Plan - Performance-Based RSU
Form
Form of Executive Officer Change in Control
Severance Agreement  
Amended and Restated Severance Plan, dated
December 20, 2008 
Research, Development and License Agreement, dated
December 29, 1994, between SmithKline Beecham
Corporation and the Company . 
Amended and Restated Research, Development and
License Agreement, dated December 1, 2005, between
the Company and Wyeth (formerly American Home
Products Corporation) 
Settlement Agreement and Mutual Release, by and
between the Company and The Rockefeller University,
dated February 11, 2009  
TR Beta Contingent Value Rights Agreement, dated
January 27, 2010, among the Company, Metabasis
Therapeutics, Inc., David F. Hale and Mellon Investor
Services LLC  
Glucagon Contingent Value Rights Agreement, dated
January 27, 2010, among the Company, Metabasis
Therapeutics, Inc., David F. Hale and Mellon Investor
Services LLC  
General Contingent Value Rights Agreement, dated
January 27, 2010, among the Company, Metabasis
Therapeutics, Inc., David F. Hale and Mellon Investor
Services LLC  
Amendment of General Contingent Value Rights
Agreement, dated January 26, 2011, among the
Company, Metabasis Therapeutics, Inc., David F. Hale
and Mellon Investor Services LLC  
Captisol® Supply Agreement, dated December 20,
2002, among CyDex, Inc., Hovione LLC, Hovione
FarmaCiencia S.A., Hovione Pharmascience Limited
and Hovione International Limited  
1st Amendment to Captisol® Supply Agreement, dated
July 29, 2005, among CyDex, Inc., Hovione LLC,
Hovione FarmaCiencia S.A., Hovione Pharmascience
Limited and Hovione International Limited  
2nd Amendment to Captisol® Supply Agreement,
dated March 1, 2007, among CyDex, Inc.,
Hovione LLC, Hovione FarmaCiencia S.A., Hovione
Pharmascience Limited, and Hovione International
Limited  
3rd Amendment to Captisol® Supply Agreement,
dated January 25, 2008, among CyDex, Inc.,
Hovione LLC, Hovione FarmaCiencia S.A., Hovione
Pharmascience Limited, and Hovione International
Limited  

S-8 

333-212775 

July 29, 2016  

S-8 

333-160132 

June 22, 2009 

10.1 

10.2 

10-K 

001-33093 

February 24, 2014 

10.5 

S-1

333-131029

January 13, 2006

10.289 

10-K

001-33093

March 16, 2007

10.309 

10-K

001-33093

March 1, 2018

10.6 

10-K

001-33093

March 1, 2018

8-K 

001-33093 

August 22, 2007 

8-K 

001-33093 

December 24, 2008

10.7 

10.1 

10.2 

S-1
S-3

33-87598
33-87600

December 20, 1994 

S-1 

333-131029 

January 13, 2006  

10.287 

10-Q 

001-33093 

May 11, 2009 

10.318 

8-K 

001-33093 

January 28, 2010 

10.2 

8-K 

001-33093 

January 28, 2010 

10.3 

8-K 

001-33093 

January 28, 2010 

10.4 

8-K 

001-33093 

January 31, 2011 

10.1 

10-K 

001-33093 

March 3, 2011 

10.1 

10-K 

001-33093 

March 3, 2011 

10.101 

10-K 

001-33093 

March 3, 2011 

10.102 

10-K 

001-33093 

March 3, 2011 

10.103 

87

10.21†

10.22†

10.23†

10.24†

10.25†

10.26†

10.27†

10.28†

10.29†

10.30†

10.31†

10.32†

10.33†

10.34†

10.35

10.36

10.37†

10.38

10.39

10.40

10.41

4th Amendment to Captisol® Supply Agreement, dated
September 28, 2009, among CyDex Pharmaceuticals,
Inc., Hovione LLC, Hovione FarmaCiencia S.A.,
Hovione Pharmascience Limited and Hovione
International Limited  
License Agreement, dated September 3, 1993, between
CyDex L.C. and The University of Kansas  
Second Amendment to License Agreement, dated
August 4, 2004, between CyDex, Inc. and The
University of Kansas  
Acknowledgement Agreement, dated February 22, 2008,
between CyDex, Inc. and The University of Kansas  
Exclusive License Agreement, dated June 4, 1996,
between Pfizer, Inc. and The University of Kansas  
Addendum to Nonexclusive License Agreement, dated
December 11, 2001, between CyDex, Inc. and
Pfizer, Inc.  
License Agreement, dated January 4, 2006, between
CyDex, Inc. and Prism Pharmaceuticals, Inc.  
Amendment to License Agreement, dated May 12, 2006,
between CyDex, Inc. and Prism Pharmaceuticals, Inc.  
Supply Agreement, dated March 5, 2007, between
CyDex, Inc. and Prism Pharmaceuticals, Inc.  
License and Supply Agreement, dated October 12, 2005,
between CyDex Pharmaceuticals, Inc. and Proteolix,
Inc.  
Supply Agreement, dated June 13, 2011 by and between
CyDex Pharmaceuticals, Inc. and Merck Sharp & Dohme
Corporation  
License Agreement, by and between CyDex
Pharmaceuticals, Inc. and Spectrum Pharmaceuticals,
Inc., dated as of March 8, 2013  
Supply Agreement, by and between CyDex
Pharmaceuticals, Inc. and Spectrum Pharmaceuticals,
Inc., dated as of March 8, 2013  
Royalty Stream and Milestone Payments Purchase
Agreement, dated April 29, 2013, between the Company
and Selexis S.A.  
Amendment of “General” Contingent Value Rights
Agreement dated May 20, 2014 among the Company,
Metabasis Therapeutics, Inc., David F. Hale and
Computershare Inc.  
Amendment of “TR Beta” Contingent Value Rights
Agreement dated May 20, 2014 among the Company,
Metabasis Therapeutics, Inc., David F. Hale and
Computershare, Inc.  
Master License Agreement dated May 21, 2014 among
the Company, Metabasis Therapeutics, Inc. and Viking
Therapeutics, Inc. 
Letter Agreement, dated as of August 12, 2014, between
Bank of America, N.A. and the Company regarding the
Base Convertible Note Hedge Transaction  
Letter Agreement, dated as of August 12, 2014, between
Bank of America, N.A. and the Company regarding the
Base Issuer Warrant Transaction  
Letter Agreement, dated as of August 12, 2014, between
Deutsche Bank AG, London Branch and the Company
regarding the Base Convertible Bond Hedge Transaction

Letter Agreement, dated as of August 12, 2014, between
Deutsche Bank AG, London Branch and the Company
regarding the Base Issuer Warrant Transaction  

10-K 

001-33093 

March 3, 2011 

10.104 

10-K 

001-33093 

March 3, 2011 

10.105 

10-K 

001-33093 

March 3, 2011 

10.107 

10-K 

001-33093 

March 3, 2011 

10.111 

10-K 

001-33093 

March 3, 2011 

10.108 

10-K 

001-33093 

March 3, 2011 

10.11 

10-K 

001-33093 

March 3, 2011 

10.112 

10-K 

001-33093 

March 3, 2011 

10.113 

10-K 

001-33093 

March 3, 2011 

10.114 

10-K 

000-28298 

February 23, 2010 

10.22 

10-Q/A 001-33093 

November 2, 2017

10.26 

10-Q 

001-33093 

May 8, 2013 

10.2 

10-Q 

001-33093 

May 8, 2013 

10.3 

10-Q 

001-33093 

August 1, 2013 

10.2 

8-K 

001-33093 

May 22, 2014 

10.1 

8-K 

001-33093 

May 22, 2014 

10.2 

10-Q 

001-33093 

August 5, 2014 

10.2 

8-K 

001-33093 

August 18, 2014 

10.1 

8-K 

001-33093 

August 18, 2014 

10.2 

8-K 

001-33093 

August 18, 2014 

10.3 

8-K 

001-33093 

August 18, 2014 

10.4 

88

 
10.42

10.43

10.44

10.45

10.46†

10.47†

10.48†

10.49†

10.50†

10.51

10.52†

10.53#

10.54†

10.55

10.56

10.57

10.58

10.59

10.60

Letter Agreement, dated as of August 14, 2014,
between Bank of America, N.A. and the Company
regarding the Additional Convertible Bond Hedge
Transaction  
Letter Agreement, dated as of August 14, 2014,
between Bank of America, N.A. and the Company
regarding the Additional Issuer Warrant Transaction  
Letter Agreement, dated as of August 14, 2014,
between Deutsche Bank AG, London Branch and the
Company regarding the Additional Convertible Bond
Hedge Transaction  
Letter Agreement, dated as of August 14, 2014,
between Deutsche Bank AG, London Branch and the
Company regarding the Additional Issuer Warrant
Transaction  
First Amendment to Master License Agreement dated
September 6, 2014 among the Company, Metabasis
Therapeutics, Inc. and Viking Therapeutics, Inc.  
Second Amendment to Master License Agreement,
dated April 8, 2015, among the Company, Metabasis
Therapeutics, Inc. and Viking Therapeutics, Inc.  
Development Funding and Royalties Agreement, dated
December 13, 2018, by and between Ligand
Pharmaceuticals Incorporated and Palvella
Therapeutics, Inc.

Sublicense Agreement between the Company,
Pharmacopeia, Inc. and Retrophin LLC dated as of
February 16, 2012. 
Amendment No. 4 to Sublicense Agreement, dated
September 17, 2015, among the Company,
Pharmacopeia, LLC and Retrophin, Inc.  
Amendment No. 5 to Sublicense Agreement, dated
March 20, 2018, among the Company, Pharmacopeia,
LLC and Retrophin, Inc.  
Lease, dated November 3, 2015, between the Company
and 3911/3931 SVB, LLC  
Amended and Restated Director Compensation and
Stock Ownership Policy, effective as of March 2014 
Interest Purchase Agreement, dated May 3, 2016,
between the Company and CorMatrix Cardiovascular,
Inc. 
Amended and Restated Interest Purchase Agreement,
dated May 31, 2017, between the Company and
CorMatrix Cardiovascular, Inc.  
License Agreement, dated March 5, 2018, between the
Company and Roivant Sciences GmbH 
Letter Agreement, dated as of May 17, 2018, between
Barclays Capital Inc. and the Company regarding the
Base Convertible Note Hedge Transaction  
Letter Agreement, dated as of May 17, 2018, between
Barclays Capital Inc. and the Company regarding the
Base Warrant Transaction  
Letter Agreement, dated as of May 17, 2018, between
Deutsche Bank AG and the Company regarding the
Base Convertible Note Hedge Transaction 
Letter Agreement, dated as of May 17, 2018, between
Deutsche Bank AG and the Company regarding the
Base Warrant Transaction 

8-K 

001-33093 

August 18, 2014 

10.5 

8-K 

001-33093 

August 18, 2014 

10.6 

8-K 

001-33093 

August 18, 2014 

10.7 

8-K 

001-33093 

August 18, 2014 

10.8 

10-Q 

001-33093 

October 31, 2014 

10.9 

10-Q 

001-33093 

August 5, 2015 

10.1 

10-Q 

001-33093 

May 4. 2012 

10.1 

10-Q/A 

001-33093 

December 23, 2015 

10.1 

10-Q 

001-33093 

May 9. 2018 

10.1 

8-K 

001-33093 

November 10, 2015 

10.1 

10-Q 

001-33093 

November 14, 2016 

10.1 

8-K/A 

001-33093 

May 9, 2016 

10.1 

10-Q 

001-033093 

August 9, 2017 

10-Q 

001-33093 

May 9, 2018 

10.2 

10.2 

8-K 

001-00393 

May 22, 2018 

10.1 

8-K 

001-00393 

May 22, 2018 

10.2 

8-K 

001-00393 

May 22, 2018 

10.3 

8-K 

001-00393 

May 22, 2018 

10.4 

89

X

 
Letter Agreement, dated as of May 17, 2018, between
Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC and the Company regarding
the Base Convertible Note Hedge Transaction 
Letter Agreement, dated as of May 17, 2018, between
Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC and the Company regarding
the Base Warrant Transaction 
Letter Agreement, dated as of May 18, 2018, between
Barclays Capital Inc. and the Company regarding the
Additional Convertible Note Hedge Transaction 
Letter Agreement, dated as of May 18, 2018, between
Barclays Capital Inc. and the Company regarding the
Additional Warrant Transaction 
Letter Agreement, dated as of May 18, 2018, between
Deutsche Bank AG and the Company regarding the
Additional Convertible Note Hedge Transaction 
Letter Agreement, dated as of May 18, 2018, between
Deutsche Bank AG and the Company regarding the
Additional Warrant Transaction 
Letter Agreement, dated as of May 18, 2018, between
Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC and the Company regarding
the Additional Convertible Note Hedge Transaction 
Letter Agreement, dated as of May 18, 2018, between
Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC and the Company regarding
the Additional Warrant Transaction  
Platform License Agreement, dated March 23, 2015, by
and between Open Monoclonal Technology, Inc. and
WuXi AppTec Biopharmaceuticals Co., Ltd. 
Amendment Number 1 to Platform License Agreement,
dated June 11, 2017, by and between Open Monoclonal
Technology, Inc. and WuXi Biologics (Hong Kong)
Limited (as successor-in-interest to WuXi AppTec
Biopharmaceuticals Co., Ltd.) 
Amendment Number 2 to Platform License Agreement,
dated June 25, 2018, by and between Open Monoclonal
Technology, Inc. and WuXi Biologics Ireland Limited (as
successor-in-interest to WuXi Biologics (Hong Kong)
Limited). 
Cooperation Agreement, dated August 9, 2018, by and
between Vernalis plc and Ligand Holdings UK Ltd. 
Break Fee Agreement, dated August 9, 2018, by and
between Vernalis plc and Ligand Holdings UK Ltd. 
Form of Indemnification Agreement between the
Company and each of its directors
Form of Indemnification Agreement between the
Company and each of its officers
Subsidiaries of the Company  
Consent of independent registered public accounting firm-
Ernst & Young LLP 
Certification by Principal Executive Officer, Pursuant to
Rules 13a-14(a) and 15d-14(a), as adopted pursuant to
Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. 
Certification by Principal Financial Officer, Pursuant to
Rules 13a-14(a) and 15d-14(a), as adopted pursuant to
Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. 

10.61

10.62

10.63

10.64

10.65

10.66

10.67

10.68

10.69†

10.70†

10.71†

10.72

10.73

10.74#

10.75#
21.1

23.1

31.1

31.2

8-K 

001-00393 

May 22, 2018 

10.5 

8-K 

001-00393 

May 22, 2018 

10.6 

8-K 

001-00393 

May 22, 2018 

10.7 

8-K 

001-00393 

May 22, 2018 

10.8 

8-K 

001-00393 

May 22, 2018 

10.9 

8-K 

001-00393 

May 22, 2018 

10.1 

8-K 

001-00393 

May 22, 2018 

10.11 

8-K 

001-00393 

May 22, 2018 

10.12 

10-Q 

001-33093 

August 8, 2018 

10.13 

10-Q 

001-33093 

August 8, 2018 

10.14 

10-Q 

001-33093 

August 8, 2018 

10.15 

8-K 

001-33093 

August 8, 2018 

10.1 

8-K 

001-33093 

August 8, 2018 

10.1 

10-K 

001-33093 

March 1, 2018 

10.60 

10-K 

001-33093 

March 1, 2018 

10.60 

X

X 

X 

X 

90

Certifications by Principal Executive Officer and
Principal Financial Officer, Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section
1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-
Oxley Act of 2002. 
XBRL Instance Document. 
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document. 
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase
Document. 
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase
Document. 
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document 
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase
Document. 

32.1
101.INS 
101.SCH 

101.CAL 

101.DEF 
101.LAB 

101.PRE 

X 

† Confidential treatment has been requested for portions of this exhibit. These portions have been omitted and submitted separately to the

Securities and Exchange Commission.
# Indicates management contract or compensatory plan.

Item 16.

Form 10-K Summary

None

91

Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) 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.

SIGNATURES

LIGAND PHARMACEUTICALS INCORPORATED

By:

/S/    JOHN L. HIGGINS        
John L. Higgins,
Chief Executive Officer

Date: February 28, 2019 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on

behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

Signature

/s/    JOHN L. HIGGINS
John L. Higgins

Title

Chief Executive Officer and Director (Principal
Executive Officer)

/s/    MATTHEW KORENBERG
Matthew Korenberg

Executive Vice President, Finance and Chief Financial
Officer (Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)

/s/    TODD C. DAVIS
Todd C. Davis

/s/    SUNIL PATEL
Sunil Patel

/s/    STEPHEN L. SABBA
Stephen L. Sabba

/s/    JOHN W. KOZARICH
John W. Kozarich

/s/    JOHN L. LAMATTINA
John L. Lamattina

/s/    JASON M. ARYEH
Jason M. Aryeh

/s/    NANCY R. GRAY
Nancy R. Gray

Director

Director

Director

Director

Director

Director

Director

92

Date

February 28, 2019

February 28, 2019

February 28, 2019

February 28, 2019

February 28, 2019

February 28, 2019

February 28, 2019

February 28, 2019

February 28, 2019

 
Exhibit 10.48

***Text Omitted and Filed Separately with
the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Confidential Treatment Requested Under
17 C.F.R. Sections 200.80(b)(4) and 240.24b-2.

DEVELOPMENT FUNDING AND ROYALTIES AGREEMENT

THIS DEVELOPMENT FUNDING AND ROYALTIES AGREEMENT  (this “Agreement”) is made and
entered 
into  effective  as  of  December  13,  2018  (the  “Effective  Date”)  by  and  between  LIGAND
PHARMACEUTICALS, INC., a Delaware company having a place of business at 3911 Sorrento Valley Boulevard,
Suite 110, San Diego, California 92121, U.S.A., (“Ligand”), and PALVELLA THERAPEUTICS, INC. , a Delaware
company  having  a  place  of  business  at  125  Strafford  Avenue,  Suite  #360,  Wayne,  PA  19087,  and  its  Affiliates
(“Palvella”). Palvella and Ligand may be referred to herein individually as a “Party” or collectively as the “ Parties.”

RECITALS

WHEREAS, Ligand is engaged in the development and commercialization of pharmaceutical products;

WHEREAS,  Palvella  owns  or  otherwise  controls  certain  intellectual  property  rights  and  regulatory  filings

relating to the compound designated as PTX-022 (as defined below), which is the subject of clinical development;

WHEREAS, Ligand desires to contribute to the funding of the development of PTX-022 in exchange for the

right to receive future payments based on the development and commercialization of PTX-022; and

WHEREAS, Palvella would like to obtain such funding from Ligand for such development activities, and make

such future payments to Ligand, as set forth in this Agreement below.

NOW, THEREFORE,  in  consideration  of  the  foregoing  and  of  the  mutual  covenants  herein  contained,  the

Parties hereby agree as follows.

ARTICLE 1 

DEFINITIONS

The terms in this Agreement with initial letters capitalized, whether used in the singular or the plural, will have

the meaning set forth below or, if not listed below, the meaning designated in places throughout this Agreement.

1.1 “Accredited Investor”  has  the  meaning  ascribed  to  such  term  in  Rule  501  of  Regulation  D  promulgated

under the Securities Act.

1.2 “Affiliate” of a Person means any other Person that (directly or indirectly) is controlled by, controls or is

under common control with such initial Person.

CONFIDENTIAL

For  the purposes of this definition, the term “control” (and, with correlative meanings, the terms “controlled by” and
“under common control with”) as used with respect to a Person means: (a) direct or indirect ownership of more than
fifty  percent  (50%)  of  the  voting  interest  in  the  Person  in  question,  or  more  than  fifty  percent  (50%)  interest  in  the
income  of  the  Person  in  question; provided,  however,  that,  if  local  law  requires  a  minimum  percentage  of  local
ownership, control will be established by direct or indirect beneficial ownership of one hundred percent (100%) of the
maximum  ownership  percentage  that  may,  under  such  local  law,  be  owned  by  foreign  interests;  or  (b)  possession,
directly or indirectly, of the power to direct or cause the direction of management or policies of the Person in question
(whether through ownership of securities or other ownership interests, by contract, or otherwise).

1.3 “Applicable Law” means all laws, statutes, ordinances, codes, rules, and regulations that have been enacted
by a Governmental Authority and are in force as of the Effective Date or come into force during the Term, in each case
to the extent that the same are applicable to the performance by a Party of its obligations, and/or exercise of its rights,
under this Agreement.

1.4 “Bankruptcy Event” means the occurrence of any of the following in respect of a Person: (a) an admission
in  writing  by  such  Person  of  its  inability  to  pay  its  debts  generally  or  a  general  assignment  by  such  Person  for  the
benefit of creditors; (b) the filing of any petition or answer by such Person seeking to adjudicate itself as bankrupt or
insolvent, or seeking for itself any liquidation, winding-up, reorganization, arrangement, adjustment, protection, relief
or composition of such Person or its debts under any Applicable Law relating to bankruptcy, insolvency, receivership,
winding-up, liquidation, reorganization, examination, relief of debtors or other similar Applicable Law now or hereafter
in  effect,  or  seeking,  consenting  to  or  acquiescing  in  the  entry  of  an  order  for  relief  in  any  case  under  any  such
Applicable  Law,  or  the  appointment  of  or  taking  possession  by  a  receiver,  trustee,  custodian,  liquidator,  examiner,
assignee, sequestrator or other similar official for such Person or for any substantial part of its property; (c) corporate or
other entity action taken by such Person to authorize any of the actions set forth in clause (a) or clause (b) above; (d)
without the consent or acquiescence of such Person, the entering of an order for relief or approving a petition for relief
or reorganization or any other petition seeking any reorganization, arrangement, composition, readjustment, liquidation,
dissolution or other similar relief under any present or future bankruptcy, insolvency or similar Applicable Law, or the
filing of any such petition against such Person, or, without the consent or acquiescence of such Person, the entering of
an  order  appointing  a  trustee,  custodian,  receiver  or  liquidator  of  such  Person  or  of  all  or  any  substantial  part  of  the
property of such Person, in each case where such petition or order shall remain unstayed or shall not have been stayed
or  dismissed  within  ninety  (90)  days  from  entry  thereof; provided  that  in  the  case  of  an  involuntary  petition,  such
Person has not challenged such petition within ninety (90) days thereof; (e) the appointment of a trustee, receiver, or
custodian  for  all  or  substantially  all  of  the  property  of  such  Person,  or  for  any  lesser  portion of  such  property,  if  the
result materially and adversely affects the ability of such Person to fulfill its obligations hereunder, which appointment
is not dismissed within sixty (60) days; or (f) the dissolution or liquidation of Palvella.

1.5 “Business Day” means any day that is not a Saturday, Sunday or other day on which commercial banks in

New York City are authorized or required by Applicable Law to remain closed.

1.6  “Calendar  Quarter”  means  the  respective  periods  of  three  (3)  consecutive  calendar  months  ending  on

March 31, June 30, September 30 and December 31; provided, however, that (a) the

2

first Calendar Quarter of the Term will extend from the Effective Date to the end of the first complete Calendar Quarter
thereafter, and (b) the last Calendar Quarter of the Term will end upon the expiration or termination of this Agreement.

1.7 “Calendar Year” means (a) for the first Calendar Year of the Term, the period beginning on the Effective
Date  and  ending  on  December  31,  2018,  (b)  for  each  Calendar Year  of  the  Term  thereafter,  each  successive  period
beginning on January 1 and ending twelve (12) consecutive calendar months later on December 31, and (c) for the last
Calendar Year of the Term, the period beginning on January 1 of the Calendar Year in which this Agreement expires or
terminates and ending on the effective date of expiration or termination of this Agreement.

1.8 “Change of Control ” means with respect to a Party: (a) the sale or exclusive license of all or substantially
all  of  such  Party’s  assets  or  business  relating  to  this  Agreement  to  a  Third  Party;  (b)  a  merger,  reorganization  or
consolidation involving the Party and a Third Party in which the voting securities of the Party outstanding immediately
prior  thereto  cease  to  represent  at  least  fifty  percent  (50%)  of  the  combined  voting  power  of  the  surviving  entity
immediately after such merger, reorganization or consolidation; or (c) a transaction (which may include a tender offer
for such Party’s stock or the issuance, sale or exchange of stock of such Party) with a Third Party or Third Parties in
which the stockholders of such Party immediately prior to the transaction do not, immediately after consummation of
such  transaction,  (i)  own,  directly  or  indirectly  through  one  or  more  intermediaries,  stock  or  other  securities  of  such
Party  that  possess  a  majority  of  the  voting  power  of  all  of  such  Party’s  outstanding  stock  and  other  securities  or  (ii)
possess  the  power  to  elect  a  majority  of  the  members  of  such  Party’s  board  of  directors; provided,  however,  that,
notwithstanding subsections (a), (b), and (c) above, a bona fide debt or equity financing of Palvella, including without
limitation  an  IPO,  Qualified  Financing  Event,  Qualified  Licensing  Event  or  any  equity  financing  involving  a  private
placement of Palvella’s securities, will not constitute a Change of Control.

1.9 “Claims” has the meaning set forth in Section 8.1.

1.10 “Commercially Reasonable Efforts”  means, as to Palvella and a Product, the level  of  effort,  expertise,
and resources required to Develop and Commercialize a Product consistent with the reasonable efforts that would be
typically  exerted  by  a  biotechnology  or  pharmaceutical  company  of  comparable  size  and  capabilities  as  Palvella  in
pursuing the development and commercialization of a similar product with similar product characteristics at a similar
stage  in  its  development  or  product  life,  including  without  limitation  with  respect  to  commercial  potential,  the
proprietary position of the Product, the regulatory status and approval process and other relevant technical, scientific,
medical or legal factors.

1.11  “Commercialize,”  “Commercializing,”  and  “Commercialization”  means  activities  directed 

to
manufacturing,  obtaining  pricing  and  reimbursement  approvals  for,  marketing,  promoting,  distributing,  importing,
and/or selling a Product.

1.12 “Confidential Information” means any and all technical, business or other information or materials that
are deemed confidential or proprietary to or by a Party and are disclosed or provided by such Party to the other Party
under or in connection with this Agreement, whether disclosed or provided in oral, written, graphic, or electronic form,
which may include without limitation trade secrets, processes, formulae, data, Know-How, improvements, inventions,
chemical or biological materials, chemical

3

structures,  techniques,  clinical,  sublicensing  and  marketing  and  other  Development  and/or  Commercialization  plans,
strategies, customer lists, financial data, intellectual property information, tangible or intangible proprietary information
or materials or other information in whatever form.

1.13 “Control” or “Controlled” means, with respect to an item, information, or an intellectual property right,
that the applicable Party owns or has a license or other appropriate rights in, to, and under such item, information, or
intellectual property right and has the ability to disclose and grant a license or sublicense to the other Party as provided
for in this Agreement in, to, and under such item, information, or intellectual property right without violating the terms
of any written agreement with any Third Party.

1.14  “Cover,”  “Covered,”  or  “ Covering”  means,  with  respect  to  a  Patent  Right,  that,  in  the  absence  of
ownership  of  or  a  license  under  such  Patent  Right,  the  manufacture,  use,  offer  for  sale,  sale  or  importation  of  such
Product or components thereof would infringe a Valid Claim in such Patent Right.

1.15 “Development” means non-clinical, pre-clinical and clinical drug discovery, research, and/or development
activities,  including  without  limitation  quality  assurance  and  quality  control  development,  and  any  other  activities
reasonably  related  to  or  leading  to  the  development  and  submission  of  information  to  a  Regulatory Authority.  When
used as a verb, “Develop” means to engage in Development.

1.16 “Development Budget” has the meaning set forth in Section 2.2.

1.17 “Development Plan” has the meaning set forth in Section 2.2.

1.18 “Disclosing Party” has the meaning set forth in Section 5.1.

1.19 “Dollars” or “US$” means the lawful currency of the United States.

1.20 “Enforcing Party” has the meaning set forth in Section 6.2.1.

1.21  “Export  Control  Laws ”  means  all  applicable  U.S.,  European  Union  or  other  applicable  laws  and
regulations  relating  to  (a)  sanctions  and  embargoes  imposed  by  the  Office  of  Foreign  Assets  Control  of  the  U.S.
Department  of  the  Treasury  or  the  European  Union  or  (b)  the  export  or  re-export  of  commodities,  technologies  or
services  or  data,  including  without  limitation  the  Export Administration Act  of  1979,  24  U.S.C.  §§  2401-2420;  the
International Emergency Economic Powers Act, 50 U.S.C. §§ 1701-1706; the Trading with the Enemy Act, 50 U.S.C.
App.  §§  1  et.  seq.;  the  Arms  Export  Control  Act,  22  U.S.C.  §§  2778  and  2779;  and  the  International  Boycott
Provisions  of  Section  999  of  the  U.S.  Internal  Revenue  Code  of  1986,  and  European  Union  laws  and  regulations
(including without limitation Regulation (EC) No 428/2009, as amended), in each case as amended.

1.21 “FCPA” means the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (15 U.S.C. § 78dd-1 et. seq.), as amended.

1.22 “FDA” means the United States Food and Drug Administration, or any successor agency thereto.

1.24  “Field”  means  the  treatment  of  any  and  all  indications,  including  without  limitation  pachyonychia

congenita (“PC”).

1.25  “First  Commercial  Sale ”  means,  with  respect  to  a  particular  Product,  the  first  commercial  sale  for

monetary value by Palvella, one or more of its Affiliates or one or more of its Licensees in an

4

arm’s  length  transaction  to  a  Third  Party  that  is  not  a  Licensee,  including  without  limitation  any  final  sale  to  a
distributor or wholesaler under any non-conditional sale arrangement, of such Product in the Field in the Territory after
Regulatory Approval of such Product has been granted in the Field in the Territory. For the avoidance of doubt, sales or
transfers of a Product for clinical and non-clinical research and trials (including studies reasonably necessary to comply
with Applicable Law or requests by a Regulatory Authority), early access programs or for compassionate or similar use,
shall not be considered a First Commercial Sale.

1.26 “GAAP” means generally accepted accounting principles in the United States, consistently applied.

1.27  “Governmental  Authority”  will  mean  any  supranational,  federal,  national,  multinational,  regional,
provincial,  county,  city,  state,  or  local  government,  court,  governmental  agency,  authority,  board,  bureau,
instrumentality, regulatory body, or other political subdivision, domestic or foreign.

1.28 “Indemnitee” has the meaning set forth in Section 8.1.

1.29 “Initiate”  means,  when  used  with  respect  to  a  Phase  2/3  Clinical  Study,  the  dosing  of  the  first  human

patient with the first dose in such Phase 2/3 Clinical Study.

1.30 “IPO” means a transaction pursuant to which Palvella’s stock becomes publicly traded, including without
limitation through a merger with a company whose stock is publicly traded or a firm commitment underwritten public
offering of common stock of Palvella registered under the Securities Act.

1.31  “Know-How”  means  technical  information  and  materials,  including  without  limitation  technology,
software, instrumentation, devices, data, biological materials, assays, constructs, compounds, inventions (patentable or
otherwise),  practices,  methods,  algorithms,  models,  knowledge,  know‑how,  trade  secrets,  skill  and  experience
(including without limitation all biological, chemical, pharmacological, toxicological, clinical, assay and related know-
how and trade secrets, and all manufacturing data, manufacturing processes, specifications, assays, quality control and
testing procedures, regulatory submissions and related know-how and trade secrets).

1.32  “Knowledge”  means  the  actual  knowledge  of  [***],  after  reasonable  due  inquiry,  but  is  not  meant  to
require or imply that any type of search (independent of that performed by the actual Governmental Authority during
the  normal  course  of  patent  prosecution,  as  applicable  in  a  jurisdiction)  has  been  conducted  or  opinion  of  counsel
obtained.

_______________________________

[***]  Certain  information  on  this  page  has  been  omitted  and  filed  separately  with  the  Commission. Confidential
treatment has been requested with respect to the omitted portions.

5

1.33  “License”  means  any  agreement  pursuant  to  which  Palvella  grants  to  a  Third  Party  (a  “ Licensee”)  a
license, sublicense, or other right to any Palvella Patents or Regulatory Filings or Regulatory Approvals relating to the
Products; provided, however, that a License shall not include (a) any agreement pursuant to which a Licensee obtains
solely the right to distribute a Product after purchase from Palvella, or (b) any agreement pursuant to which Palvella or
any of its Affiliates grants a license or sublicense of any of its intellectual property rights (i) solely to conduct research,
(ii)  solely  to  manufacture  a  Product,  or  (iii)  otherwise  to  service  providers  solely  on  a  non-exclusive  basis  in  the
ordinary  course  of  Development  or  Commercialization  of  a  Product  (e.g.,  material  transfer  agreements,  distribution
agreements, and consulting agreements).

1.34 “Licensee” has the meaning set forth in the definition of License.

135 “Losses” has the meaning set forth in Section 8.1.

1.36 “Milestone Payment” has the meaning set forth in Section 4.2.

1.37 “NDA” means a New Drug Application filed with the FDA that is required for approval for the applicable

Product in the United States, or its foreign equivalent in the Territory.

1.38 “Net Sales” means, with respect to any Product, the gross amounts received  by Palvella, its Affiliates and
Licensees  for  arm’s  length  sales  of  such  Product  in  the  Field  in  the  Territory  to  a  Third  Party  (excluding  any  sales
among  Palvella,  its  Affiliates  and  any  Licensee),  commencing  with  the  First  Commercial  Sale,  less  the  following
deductions solely to the extent incurred or allowed with respect to such sales, and solely to the extent such deductions
are in accordance with GAAP, and which are not already reflected as a deduction from the invoiced price:  (a) discounts
(to  the  extent  not  previously  applied  to  such  amounts  received),  charge-back  payments,  and  rebates;  (b)  credits  or
allowances  for  damaged  goods,  rejections,  recalls  or  returns  of  such  Product;  (c)  freight,  insurance,  postage,  and
shipping  charges  for  delivery  of  such  Product,  to  the  extent  separately  billed  on  the  invoice;  (d)  taxes,  customs,  or
duties levied on, absorbed, or otherwise imposed on the sale of such Product, as adjusted for rebates and refunds, to the
extent not paid by the Third Party and only to the extent such taxes, customs, or duties are not reimbursed to the paying
party,  but  excluding  all  income  taxes;  and  (e)  that  portion  of  the  annual  fees  due  under  Section  9008  of  the  United
States  Patient  Protection  and Affordable  Care Act  of  2010  (Pub.  L.  No.  111-48)  and  any  other  fees  imposed  by  any
Applicable  Law. If  a  Product  is  sold  by  Palvella,  its Affiliates  or  Licensees  through  intermediaries  such  as  agents,
consignees or co-promoters who do not purchase and take title to Product, Royalties will be due only on sales to those
Third Parties who actually purchase and take title to Product through such intermediaries. Net Sales will be determined
in accordance with GAAP.

With respect to sales of a Product invoiced in Dollars, Net Sales shall be determined in Dollars. With respect to sales of
a  Product  invoiced  in  a  currency  other  than  Dollars,  Net  Sales  shall  be  determined  by  converting  the  currencies  at
which the sales are made into Dollars, at rates  of  exchange  determined  in  a  manner  consistent  with  Palvella’s  or  the
applicable  Licensee’s  methods  for  calculating  rates  of  exchange  in  the  preparation  of  Palvella’s  or  such  applicable
Licensee’s annual financial statements in accordance with GAAP.

A Product transferred to Third Parties in connection with clinical and non-clinical research and trials (including studies
reasonably necessary to comply with Applicable Law), Product samples, charitable

6

purposes, promotional purposes, early access programs, compassionate sales or use, or an indigent program or similar
bona fide arrangements for which Palvella or any of its Affiliates or Licensees for good faith business reasons receives
consideration in respect thereof that is less than the average cost of goods for a Product shall not be included in Net
Sales.

1.39 “Non-Enforcing Party” has the meaning set forth in Section 6.2.1.

1.40  “Palvella  Patents”  means  (a)  any  and  all  patents  and  patent  applications  that  Cover  a  Product  or  its
manufacture,  use,  sale,  export  or  import,  including  without  limitation  the  patents  and  patent  applications  set  forth  in
Appendix B, and (b) any Patent Rights based on the patents and patent applications described in subsection (a).

1.41 “Patent Rights”  means  (a)  patents  and  patent  applications,  and  any  foreign  counterparts  thereof,  (b)  all
divisionals, continuations, continuations-in-part of any of the foregoing, and any foreign counterparts thereof, and (c)
all patents issuing on any of the foregoing, and any foreign counterparts thereof, together with all registrations, reissues,
re‑examinations, supplemental protection certificates, substitutions or extensions thereof, and any foreign counterparts
thereof.

1.42 “Person” means any natural person, firm, corporation, limited liability company, partnership, joint venture,
association,  joint-stock  company,  trust,  business  trust,  unincorporated  organization,  Governmental Authority  or  any
other  legal  entity,  including  without  limitation  public  bodies,  whether  acting  in  an  individual,  fiduciary  or  other
capacity

1.43 “Phase  2/3  Clinical  Study ”  means  a  human  clinical  study  of  a  Product  in  any  country  on  a  sufficient
number  of  subjects  that  is  designed  to  establish  that  such  Product  is  safe  and  efficacious  for  its  intended  use,  and  to
determine warnings, precautions, and adverse reactions that are associated with such Product in the dosage range to be
prescribed,  which  trial  is  intended  to  support  Regulatory  Approval  of  such  Product,  as  described  in  21  C.F.R.  §
312.21(c), or equivalent clinical study in a country other than the United States.

1.44 “Prior CDA” means the Mutual Confidentiality Agreement between the Parties, effective as of September

25, 2018.

1.45 “Product” means any product that contains PTX-022.

1.46 “PTO” means the United States Patent and Trademark Office.

1.47 “PTX-022” means the compound set forth on Appendix A.

1.48  “Public  Official  or  Entity”  means  (a)  any  officer,  employee  (including  without  limitation  physicians,
hospital administrators or other healthcare professionals), agent, representative, department, agency, de facto official,
representative,  corporate  entity,  instrumentality  or  subdivision  of  any  government,  military  or  international
organization,  including  without  limitation  any  ministry  or  department  of  health  or  any  state-owned  or  affiliated
company or hospital, or (b) any candidate for political office, any political party or any official of a political party.

7

1.49  “Qualified  Financing  Event”  means  an  IPO  or  one  or  more  equity  financings  of  Palvella  pursuant  to

which the gross proceeds in the aggregate to Palvella are at least [***].

1.50 “Qualified Licensing Event” means the date on which Palvella receives an aggregate of [***] in license
fees  pursuant  to  one  or  more  Licenses; provided  that  any  amounts  received  by  Palvella  under  such  Licenses  that  are
bona fide reimbursements for expenses incurred by Palvella in the Development of PTX-022 will not be included in
such license fees for purposes of this definition.

1.51 “Receiving Party” has the meaning set forth in Section 5.1.

1.52 “Regulatory Approval” means approval of an NDA by the FDA for the applicable Product in the United
States, or approval by the applicable Regulatory Authority of a regulatory approval application that is equivalent to an
NDA in a country other than the United States, and any approvals, licenses, registrations, or authorizations necessary
for the manufacture, marketing, and sale of Product in such country and, where relevant, including without limitation
any  reimbursement  or  pricing  approvals.  For  the  sake  of  clarity,  except  as  otherwise  expressly  provided  herein,
“Regulatory Approval” will not be achieved for a Product in a country or, where applicable, a multinational jurisdiction
until  any  applicable  approvals  relating  to  pricing  and  reimbursement  from  the  relevant  Regulatory Authorities  have
been obtained in such country or such jurisdiction.

1.53 “Regulatory Authority” means any national or supranational Governmental Authority, including without
limitation FDA, that has responsibility for granting any licenses or approvals or granting pricing and/or reimbursement
approvals necessary for the development, marketing, and sale of a Product in any country.

1.54 “Regulatory Exclusivity”  means  any  exclusive  marketing  rights  or  data  exclusivity  rights  conferred  by
any  Governmental  Authority  under  Applicable  Law  with  respect  to  a  Product  in  a  country  or  jurisdiction  in  the
Territory  to  prevent  Third  Parties  from  Commercializing  such  Product  in  such  country  or  jurisdiction,  other  than  a
Patent  Right,  including  without  limitation  orphan  drug  exclusivity,  pediatric  exclusivity,  rights  conferred  in  the  U.S.
under the Hatch-Waxman Act or the FDA Modernization Act of 1997, in the EU under Directive 2001/83/EC, or rights
similar thereto in other countries or regulatory jurisdictions in the Territory.

1.55  “Regulatory  Filings”  means  any  and  all  regulatory  applications,  filings,  modifications,  amendments,
supplements, revisions, reports, submissions, authorizations, and Regulatory Approvals, and associated correspondence
required  to  Develop  and  Commercialize  Products  in  the  Territory,  including  without  limitation  any  reports  or
amendments necessary to maintain Regulatory Approvals.

1.56 “Royalties” has the meaning set forth in Section 4.3.1.

1.57 “Royalty Term” has the meaning set forth in Section 4.3.2.

1.58 “Securities Act” means the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.

___________________________

[***] Certain information on this page has been omitted and filed separately with the Commission. Confidential
treatment has been requested with respect to the omitted portions.

8

1.59 “Term” has the meaning set forth in Section 7.1.

1.60 “Territory” means worldwide.

1.61 “Third Party” means any Person other than Palvella, Ligand, and their respective Affiliates.

1.62 “United States” or “U.S.” means the United States of America and all of its territories and possessions.

1.63 “Upfront Payment” has the meaning set forth in Section 4.1.

1.64 “Valid Claim ” means either (a) a claim of an issued and unexpired patent or a supplementary protection
certificate  within  the  Palvella  Patents  that  has  not  been  held  permanently  revoked,  unenforceable,  or  invalid  by  a
decision of a court or other Governmental Authority of competent jurisdiction, unappealable or unappealed within the
time allowed for appeal and that is not admitted to be invalid or unenforceable through reissue, disclaimer, or otherwise
(i.e., only to the extent the subject matter is disclaimed or is sought to be deleted or amended through reissue), or (b) a
claim  of  a  pending  patent  application  within  the  Palvella  Patents  that  has  not  been  abandoned,  finally  rejected,  or
expired without the possibility of appeal or refilling.

ARTICLE 2  

PALVELLA RESPONSIBILITIES; LICENSING; REPORTING

2.1 Responsibilities.  Palvella will have the sole right, as between the Parties, to Develop and Commercialize
Products in the Field, including without limitation determining the marketing and regulatory strategies for seeking (if
and  when  appropriate)  Regulatory Approvals  and  Regulatory  Exclusivity  in  the  Territory  for  Products  in  the  Field,
filing for such Regulatory Approvals and Regulatory Exclusivity for Products in the Field in the Territory, preparing,
submitting, and maintaining any and all Regulatory Filings and Regulatory Approvals for Products in the Field in the
Territory,  and  seeking  any  necessary  Regulatory  Approvals  of  Regulatory  Authorities  for  Product  labeling  and
promotional materials to be used in the applicable jurisdiction(s) in connection with Commercializing Products in the
Field  in  the  Territory.  As  between  the  Parties,  Palvella  will  be  responsible  for  all  costs  and  expenses  incurred  by
Palvella  in  connection  with  the  foregoing  activities,  except  for  the  payment  set  forth  in  Section  4.1. If  an  Affiliate
and/or a Licensee meets or fulfills any or all of the obligations of Palvella under this Agreement, and/or observes any of
the terms or conditions hereof, then Palvella will be deemed to have met or fulfilled such obligations or observed such
terms or conditions, as the case may be.

9

2.2  Development  Plan  and  Development  Budget .  Palvella  will  conduct  the  activities  set  forth  in  the
Development plan set forth on Appendix C (the “ Development Plan”) in accordance with the Development budget set
forth on Appendix D (the “Development Budget”). Palvella may update or modify in good faith the Development Plan
and  the  Development  Budget  from  time  to  time  in  its  sole  discretion  without  Ligand’s  consent,  provided  that  such
amendments  or  modifications  relate  to  reasonable  and  customary  Development  activities  and  do  not  result,  in  the
aggregate, in additional expenditures in excess of [***] of, or result in a reduction in expenditures by more than [***]
of,  the  aggregate  amount  of  expenditures  set  forth  in  the  Development  Budget  set  forth  on  Appendix  D  as  of  the
Effective  Date.  Otherwise,  Palvella  must  obtain  Ligand’s  consent  before  amending  or  modifying  the  Development
Budget,  with  such  consent  not  to  be  unreasonably  withheld,  delayed,  or  conditioned. Palvella  will  use  the  Upfront
Payment solely to fund activities in accordance with the Development Plan and the Development Budget, each of which
may be amended from time to time in accordance with this Section 2.2. Without limiting any other remedies available,
if all Development of Product(s) in the Field in the Territory is ceased, Palvella will pay to Ligand an amount equal to
[***].

2.3  Diligence. Palvella  will  use  Commercially  Reasonable  Efforts  to  carry  out  its  responsibilities  under  this
Agreement. During  the  Term,  Palvella  will  use  Commercially  Reasonable  Efforts  to  Develop  and  Commercialize  at
least  one  (1)  Product  in  the  Field  in  the  Territory.  Without  limiting  the  foregoing,  Palvella  will Initiate  a  Phase  2/3
Clinical  Study  by  December  31,  2019. Palvella  will  deliver  to  Ligand  within  thirty  (30)  days  after  the  end  of  each
Calendar Year  a  written  report  summarizing  in  reasonable  detail  the  efforts  of  Palvella  in  the  prior  year  to  meet  its
obligations to Develop and Commercialize Products consistent with this Section 2.3 and the planned Development and
Commercialization activities to be conducted by Palvella in the current Calendar Year.

2.4 Licensing.

2.4.1  Right  to  License.   Palvella  will  retain  the  right  to  perform  its  activities  under  this  Agreement
through Licensees, subject to this Section 2.4. Palvella will remain responsible for the performance of Licensees under
this Agreement, including without limitation for all payments due hereunder.  Palvella will provide Ligand with notice
of  the  entering  into  of  each  License  promptly  after  execution  of  such  License. In  addition,  Palvella  will  provide  a
redacted copy of any such License to Ligand after execution of such License.

2.4.2 Terms. Each  License  granted  by  Palvella  pursuant  to  Section  2.4.1  will  be  subject  to  the  terms
and conditions of this Agreement and will contain terms and conditions consistent in all material respects with those in
this  Agreement. Agreements  with  any  Licensee  that  include  the  right  to  Commercialize  any  Product(s)  will  contain
provisions requiring such Licensee to calculate and report on net sales in sufficient detail to permit Palvella to meet its
obligations  set  forth  in  Sections  4.4  and  4.5,  and,  to  the  extent  that  such  Licensee  will  have  access  to  Ligand’s
Confidential  Information,  a  requirement  that  such  Licensee  comply  with  confidentiality  and  non-use  provisions
consistent in all material respects with those contained in Article 5 with respect to Ligand’s Confidential Information.

___________________________

[***] Certain information on this page has been omitted and filed separately with the Commission. Confidential
treatment has been requested with respect to the omitted portions.

10

2.4.3  Subcontracting.  Palvella  may  utilize  the  services  of  Third  Parties,  including  without
limitation  Third  Party  contract  research  organizations,  contract  manufacturing  organizations,  suppliers  and  service
providers to perform its Development and Commercialization activities; provided that Palvella will remain at all times
fully  liable  for  its  respective  responsibilities  under  this  Agreement. Any  agreement  with  a  Third  Party  to  perform
Palvella’s responsibilities under this Agreement will include confidentiality and non-use provisions which are no less
stringent than those set forth in Article 5 and intellectual property provisions that will allow Palvella to comply with
Article 6.  

ARTICLE 3  

REGULATORY

3.1 Regulatory Filings. Palvella will solely own and control any and all Regulatory Approvals and any and all
other Regulatory Filings submitted in connection with seeking and maintaining Regulatory Approvals for Products in
the Field in the Territory.

3.2 Regulatory Communications. Palvella will be the sole contact, as between the Parties, with the applicable
Regulatory Authorities and will be solely responsible, using Commercially Reasonable Efforts, for all communications
with such Regulatory Authorities that relate to any Regulatory Approvals or other Regulatory Filings prior to and after
any  Regulatory Approval  with  respect  to  the  Products  in  the  Field  in  the  Territory.  Except  as  may  be  required  by
Applicable  Law,  Ligand  will  not  communicate  regarding  Products  in  the  Field  with  any  Governmental  Authority
having jurisdiction in the Territory unless explicitly requested or permitted in writing to do so by Palvella or unless so
ordered by such Governmental Authority in the Territory, in which case Ligand will provide to Palvella notice of such
order as soon as practicable, but in no event later than five (5) business days after receipt of such order. If  Ligand  is
required to respond to any requests from or by any and all Regulatory Authorities with respect to any Product, Palvella
will have an opportunity to comment on the response to the extent such response may materially impact the Product
before Ligand submits such response and Ligand will provide a copy of the final response to Palvella.

3.3 Reports.

3.3.1  Within  thirty  (30)  days  after  the  end  of  each  Calendar  Quarter  during  the  Term,  Palvella  will
deliver  to  Ligand  a  report  containing  information  regarding  its  Development  and  Commercialization  activities
conducted by or on behalf of Palvella and its Affiliates and Licensees during such Calendar Quarter.  Without limiting
the  foregoing,  such  report  shall  include  a  description  of  all  material  activities  in  connection  with  any  Regulatory
Approvals and Regulatory Exclusivity for Products in the Field in the Territory, preparing, submitting, and maintaining
any  and  all  Regulatory  Filings  and  Regulatory Approvals  for  Products  in  the  Field  in  the  Territory,  and  seeking  any
necessary Regulatory Approvals of Regulatory Authorities for Product labeling and promotional materials to be used in
the applicable jurisdiction(s) in connection with Commercializing Products in the Field. In addition, such reports shall
contain a description of Palvella’s performance against the activities and timelines set forth in the Development Plan
and costs and expenses incurred against the Development Budget, each of which may be amended from time to time in
accordance with Section 2.2.

11

 
3.3.2  Prior  to  the  consummation  of  an  IPO,  Palvella  shall  deliver  to  Ligand  the  following  financial

statements:

Calendar Year, copies of the unaudited financial statements of Palvella for such Calendar Quarter; and

(a)  within  thirty  (30)  days  after  the  end  of  each  of  the  first  three  (3)  Calendar  Quarters  of  a

audited financial statements of Palvella for such Calendar Year.

(b)  within  one  hundred  eighty  (180)  days  after  the  end  of  each  Calendar Year,  copies  of  the

3.3.3 Prior to the consummation of an IPO, Palvella will provide Ligand with written notice at such time
as  (a)  Palvella  becomes  insolvent  as  defined  in  Applicable  Law,  including  without  limitation  interpretations  in
applicable  case  law;  (b)  Palvella  is  unable  to  pay  its  debts  as  they  become  due;  (c)  Palvella  suspends,  closes,  or
otherwise  ceases  to  operate  a  portion  of  its  business  having  a  material  adverse  effect  on  Palvella’s  ability  to  comply
with its material obligations under this Agreement; and (d) Palvella fails to have enough cash on hand to fund at least
two  Calendar  Quarters  of  its  budgeted  operating  expenses,  based  on  the  Development  Budget. In  addition,  within
fifteen (15) days of a written request of Ligand (such request not to be made more than one time during any Calendar
Year), Palvella will provide Ligand with its most recent audited financial statements. Ligand shall, and shall cause its
representatives  and  Affiliates  to,  treat  all  notices  and  financial  reports  (and  the  information  contained  therein)  as
Confidential Information of Palvella, subject to the terms of Article 5.

ARTICLE 4  

PAYMENTS

4.1  Upfront  Payment.  In  consideration  for  the  rights  granted  under  this  Agreement  to  Ligand,  including
without  limitation  the  right  to  receive  the  payments  set  forth  in  Sections  4.2  and  4.3,  and  to  fund  the  Development
activities  described  in  this  Agreement,  Ligand  shall  pay  Palvella  a  one-time  payment  of  Ten  Million  Dollars
($10,000,000) (the “Upfront Payment”) on the Effective Date to an account designated in writing by Palvella.

4.2 Milestone Payments. In consideration for the Upfront Payment paid to Palvella under Section 4.1, Palvella
will  pay  Ligand  each  milestone  payment  set  forth  in  the  table  below  after  the  first  achievement  of  the  specified
milestone  event  (each,  a  “Milestone  Event”)  by  Palvella,  its  Licensees  or  their  Affiliates  for  a  Product  (each,  a
“Milestone Payment”). All such payments are non-refundable and non-creditable. Palvella will notify Ligand of any
such achievement within five (5) business days after such achievement. Ligand may submit an invoice to Palvella for
each Milestone Payment set forth in the table in this Section 4.2 below at any time after the corresponding Milestone
Event is achieved. Palvella will pay any amounts payable under this Section 4.2 within thirty (30) days after receipt of
an invoice therefor; provided that such invoice is submitted after the date on which such Milestone Payment becomes
payable. If Ligand does not submit an invoice to Palvella with respect to the Milestone Payment, then such Milestone
Payment will be payable within thirty (30) days after the date set forth in Palvella’s notice under this Section 4.2. For
the avoidance of doubt, each Milestone Payment is payable a maximum of one time only, regardless of the number of
times a Milestone Event is achieved.  

12

 
Milestone Event

Milestone Payment

[***]
[***]
[***]

4.3 Royalty Payments.

4.3.1 Royalties on Products .

[***]
[***]
[***]

(a) In partial consideration for the Upfront Payment paid to Palvella under Section 4.1, Palvella
hereby sells to Ligand all of its right, title, and interest in and to royalties on aggregate annual Net Sales of all Products
in the Territory, as calculated by multiplying the applicable royalty rate in the table below (as may be adjusted pursuant
to Section 4.3.1(a)(ii)) by the corresponding amount of incremental Net Sales of all Products in the Territory in each
Calendar Year (“ Royalties”). Palvella shall have no right, title, or interest in the Royalties and Palvella shall remit all
Royalties to Ligand in accordance with Section 4.4. Commencing on the date that the Royalties paid to Ligand under
this  Section  4.3  and  the  payments  paid  to  Ligand  under  Section  4.2  cumulatively  equal  at  least  [***]  (the  “Royalty
Buy-Down Date”), Palvella will have the right to reduce the royalty rates set forth in Section 4.3.1(a)(i) by making a
payment or payments (each, a “Royalty Buy-Down Payment ”)  at  any  time  during  the  Term  after  the  Royalty  Buy-
Down Date, as set forth in Section 4.3.1(a)(ii).

forth in Section 4.3.1(a), above, the royalty rates for the Term shall be as follows:

(i) If  Palvella  has  not  made  a  Royalty  Buy-Down  Payment  within  the  time  period  set

Net Sales Tier

Royalty Rate

For that portion of annual aggregate Net Sales of Products in a
Calendar Year that are less than or equal to [***]

For that portion of annual aggregate Net Sales of Products in a
Calendar Year that are greater than [***]but less than or equal to [***]

For that portion of annual aggregate Net Sales of Products in a
Calendar Year that are greater than [***]

[***]

[***]

[***]

For example, and without limitation, if aggregate annual Net Sales of all Products in the Field in the Territory in a
Calendar Year is [***], then Royalties due by Palvella would equal [***].

___________________________

[***] Certain information on this page has been omitted and filed separately with the Commission. Confidential
treatment has been requested with respect to the omitted portions.

13

(ii) Royalty Buy-Down. At any time on or after the Royalty Buy-Down Date, Palvella
shall have the right to reduce, in accordance with Section 4.3.1(a)(ii)(A), (B), (C), and/or (D), the royalty rates set forth
in  Section  4.3.1(a)(i). For clarity, Palvella will have the right to elect the options set forth in one or more of Section
4.3.1(a)(ii)(A), (B), (C), or (D). For example, and without limitation, Palvella may elect the option set forth in Section
4.3.1(a)(ii)(A)  by  making  the  [***]  payment  set  forth  therein,  and  then  at  a  later  time  elect  the  option  set  forth  in
Section  4.3.1(a)(ii)(C)  by  making  a  payment  equal  to  (x)  [***] less  (y)  [***]  previously  paid  pursuant  to  Section
4.3.1(a)(ii)(A).

(A)  If Palvella has made a Royalty Buy-Down Payment of [***] within
the time period set forth in Section 4.3.1(a), above, the royalty rates applicable commencing in the first Calendar
Quarter after receipt of such Royalty Buy-Down Payment shall be as follows:

Net Sales Tier

Royalty Rate

For that portion of annual aggregate Net Sales of Products in a
Calendar Year that are less than or equal to [***]

For that portion of annual aggregate Net Sales of Products in a
Calendar Year that are greater than [***] but less than or equal to [***]

For that portion of annual aggregate Net Sales of Products in a
Calendar Year that are greater than [***]

[***]

[***]

[***]

(B)  If  Palvella  has  made  Royalty  Buy-Down  Payment(s)  totaling  [***]
within the time period set forth in Section 4.3.1(a), above, the royalty rates applicable commencing in the first
Calendar Quarter after receipt of such Royalty Buy-Down Payment(s) totaling [***] shall be as follows:

Net Sales Tier

Royalty Rate

For that portion of annual aggregate Net Sales of Products in a
Calendar Year that are less than or equal to [***]

For that portion of annual aggregate Net Sales of Products in a
Calendar Year that are greater than [***] but less than or equal to [***]

For that portion of annual aggregate Net Sales of Products in a
Calendar Year that are greater than [***]

[***]

[***]

[***]

___________________________

[***] Certain information on this page has been omitted and filed separately with the Commission. Confidential
treatment has been requested with respect to the omitted portions.

14

(C)  If  Palvella  has  made  Royalty  Buy-Down  Payment(s)  totaling  [***]
within the time period set forth in Section 4.3.1(a), above, the royalty rates applicable commencing in the first
Calendar Quarter after receipt of such Royalty Buy-Down Payment(s) totaling [***] shall be as follows:

Net Sales Tier

Royalty Rate

For that portion of annual aggregate Net Sales of Products in a
Calendar Year that are less than or equal to [***]

For that portion of annual aggregate Net Sales of Products in a
Calendar Year that are greater than [***]

[***]

[***]

(D)  If  Palvella  has  made  Royalty  Buy-Down  Payment(s)  totaling  [***]
within the time period set forth in Section 4.3.1(a), above, the royalty rates applicable commencing in the first
Calendar Quarter after receipt of such Royalty Buy-Down Payment(s) totaling [***] shall be as follows:

Net Sales Tier

Royalty Rate

For that portion of annual aggregate Net Sales of Products in a
Calendar Year that are less than or equal to [***]

For that portion of annual aggregate Net Sales of Products in a
Calendar Year that are greater than [***]

[***]

[***]

4.3.2 Royalty Term.   Royalties will be remitted under this Section 4.3, on a country-by-country basis,
commencing on First Commercial Sale of such Product in such country until the last to occur of: [***]  (the “Royalty
Term”).

4.4 Royalty Reports and Payments . During  the  Term  following  the  First  Commercial  Sale  of  any  Product,
within  forty-five  (45)  days  after  the  end  of  each  of  the  first  three  (3)  Calendar  Quarters  of  each  Calendar Year  and
within  sixty  (60)  days  after  the  end  of  the  last  Calendar  Quarter  of  each  Calendar Year,  Palvella  will  pay  to  Ligand
Royalties  due  for  such  Calendar  Quarter  calculated  in  accordance  with  Section  4.3  and  will  deliver  to  Ligand  a
Royalties report showing, on a country-by-country basis, the information set forth in this Section 4.4 below:

___________________________

[***] Certain information on this page has been omitted and filed separately with the Commission. Confidential
treatment has been requested with respect to the omitted portions.

15

4.4.1 the gross amount invoiced for and the amounts received and the Net Sales resulting from sales of
Products  sold  by  Palvella,  its Affiliates  or  Licensees  during  such  Calendar  Quarter,  including  without  limitation  the
specific deductions applied in the calculation of such Net Sales amounts, and any amounts required to be included in
Net Sales pursuant to Section 6.2.3;

4.4.2 the  Royalties  (in  Dollars)  that  have  accrued  in  such  Calendar  Quarter  with  respect  to  such  Net

Sales;

Royalties; and

4.4.3  withholding  taxes,  if  any,  required  by  Applicable  Law  to  be  deducted  with  respect  to  such

4.4.4 the rate of exchange used by Palvella in determining the amount of Dollars due hereunder.

If no Royalties are due for any Calendar Quarter hereunder, Palvella will so report.  Palvella will keep, and will require
in its Licenses, and use good faith efforts to enforce such requirements, its Licensees and their respective Affiliates to
keep (all in accordance with GAAP), complete and accurate records in sufficient detail to properly reflect the Net Sales
to enable the Royalties due hereunder to be determined for a period of at least three (3) Calendar Years.

In  addition,  Palvella  will  deliver  to  Ligand  no  later  than  twenty-five  (25)  days  following  the  end  of  each  Calendar
Quarter a preliminary statement setting forth the actual Net Sales for the first two (2) months of such Calendar Quarter
and estimated Net Sales for the third (3rd) month of such Calendar Quarter, the calculation of Royalties or Net Sales
due on a country-by-country basis (based on such actual and estimated Net Sales) and, if applicable, the exchange rate
to be utilized by Palvella to convert a local currency payment to Dollars.

4.5 Audits of Royalty Reports . Upon the written request of Ligand and not more than once in each Calendar
Year,  Palvella  will  permit  an  independent  certified  public  accounting  firm  selected  by  Ligand  and  reasonably
acceptable to Palvella, at Ligand’s expense, to have access during normal business hours to such records of Palvella as
may be necessary or reasonably useful to verify the accuracy of the payment reports made and the amounts owed to
Ligand  under  this Agreement  for  any  Calendar Year  period  ending  not  more  than  thirty-six  (36)  months  prior  to  the
date of such request. Such rights with respect to any Calendar Year will terminate upon the earlier to occur of (a) the
completion of an audit pursuant to this Section 4.5 with respect to such Calendar Year and (b) three (3) years after the
end  of  any  such  Calendar  Year.  Ligand  will  provide  Palvella  with  a  copy  of  such  accounting  firm’s  written  report
within  thirty  (30)  days  after  completion  of  such  report. If  such  accounting  firm  concludes  that  an  overpayment  or
underpayment was made, then the owing Party will pay the amount due within thirty (30) days after the date Ligand
delivers  to  Palvella  such  accounting  firm’s  written  report  so  concluding,  and  any  accrued  interest  as  determined  in
accordance  with  Section  4.9  from  the  date  such  overpayment  was  paid  or  such  underpayment  was  originally  due,  as
applicable,  until  payment  thereof. Ligand  will  bear  the  full  cost  of  such  audit  unless  such  audit  discloses  that  the
additional  payment  payable  by  Palvella  for  the  audited  period  is  more  than  five  percent  (5%)  of  the  amount  of  the
payments  due  for  that  audited  period,  in  which  case  Palvella  will  pay  the  reasonable  documented  fees  and  expenses
charged  by  the  accounting  firm. If  the  Parties  dispute  any  such  accounting  firm’s  conclusion,  they  will  resolve  such
issue pursuant to Article 11. Ligand will treat all information subject to review under Section 4.5 in accordance with the
confidentiality provisions of this Agreement.

16

4.6 Currency of Payments. All  payments  under  this Agreement  will  be  made  in  Dollars  by  wire  transfer  of
immediately  available  funds  into  an  account  designated  by  Ligand. Net  Sales  outside  of  the  U.S.  will  be  first
determined  in  the  currency  in  which  they  are  earned  and  will  then  be  converted  into  an  amount  in  Dollars  using
Palvella’s or the Licensee’s, as applicable, customary and usual conversion procedures used in preparing its financial
statements pursuant to GAAP for the applicable reporting period.

4.7 Blocked  Currency.  In  each  country  in  the  Territory  where  the  local  currency  is  blocked  and  cannot  be
removed from the country, at the election of Ligand, Royalties accrued on Net Sales in such country will be paid to
Ligand in local currency by deposit in a local bank in such country designated by Ligand.

4.8 Taxes.  Each Party will be solely responsible for the payment of all taxes imposed on its share of income
arising directly or indirectly from the efforts of the Parties under this Agreement. The Parties agree to cooperate with
one  another  and  use  reasonable  efforts  to  reduce  or  eliminate  tax  withholding  or  similar  obligations  in  respect  of
Royalties, Milestone Payments, and other payments made by Palvella to Ligand under this Agreement. To  the  extent
Palvella  is  required  under  the  Internal  Revenue  Code  of  1986,  as  amended  (the “Code”),  or  any  other  tax  laws  to
deduct  and  withhold  taxes  on  any  payment  to  Ligand,  and  Palvella  will  pay  the  amounts  of  such  taxes  to  the  proper
Governmental Authority in a timely manner and promptly transmit to Ligand an official tax certificate or other evidence
of  such  withholding  sufficient  to  enable  Ligand  to  claim  such  payment  of  taxes. Upon  Palvella’s  reasonable  request,
Ligand will provide Palvella any tax forms that may be reasonably necessary in order for Palvella to determine whether
to withhold tax on any such payments or to withhold tax on such payments at a reduced rate under the Code or any
other  tax  laws,  including  without  limitation  any  applicable  bilateral  income  tax  treaty. Palvella  will  give  reasonable
support so that any withholding tax or value added tax may be minimized or avoided to the extent permitted under the
Applicable Laws and treaties. Each Party will provide the other with reasonable assistance to enable the recovery, as
permitted by Applicable Laws, of withholding taxes, value added taxes, or similar obligations resulting from payments
made  under  this Agreement,  such  recovery  to  be  for  the  benefit  of  the  Party  bearing  such  withholding  tax  or  value
added  tax. Palvella  will  use  commercially  reasonable  efforts  to  require  its  Licensees  to  cooperate  with  Palvella  and
Ligand  in  a  manner  consistent  with  this  Section  4.8. If  any  payment  required  to  be  made  by  Palvella  under  this
Agreement  is  subject  to  increased  deduction  or  withholding  of  tax  by  Ligand,  then  the  sum  payable  by  Palvella  (in
respect  of  which  such  increased  deduction  or  withholding  is  required  to  be  made)  will  be  increased  to  the  extent
necessary to ensure that Ligand receives a sum equal to the sum which it would have received if no such increased tax
deduction or withholding had been required.

4.9 Interest Due. Palvella will pay Ligand interest on any payments that are not paid on or before the date such
payments are due under this Agreement at a monthly interest rate equal to the U.S. prime interest rate, as reported by
The Wall Street Journal  (New York edition) for the first Business Day of the month in which such payment was due
plus five percentage points (5 ppts), or the maximum applicable legal rate, if less, calculated based on the total number
of days payment is delinquent.

17

ARTICLE 5  

NONDISCLOSURE OF CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION

5.1 Nondisclosure. Each Party agrees that, during the Term and for a period of ten (10) years thereafter (or, for
any  trade  secret,  for  so  long  as  the  Disclosing  Party  maintains  such  trade  secret  as  a  trade  secret),  a  Party  (the
“Receiving Party”) receiving Confidential Information of the other Party (the “ Disclosing Party”) will (a) maintain in
confidence such Confidential Information, (b) not disclose such Confidential Information to any Third Party without the
prior written consent of the Disclosing Party, except for disclosures expressly permitted in this Article 5, and (c) not use
such Confidential Information for any purpose except those expressly permitted by this Agreement. The Parties agree
that  any  Confidential  Information  (within  the  meaning  of  the  Prior  CDA)  disclosed  by  the  Parties  or  their Affiliates
pursuant to the Prior CDA will be Confidential Information within the meaning of, and will be subject to, this Article 5.

5.2 Exceptions. The  obligations  under  Section  5.1  will  not  apply  with  respect  to  any  portion  of  Confidential

Information of a Disclosing Party that the Receiving Party can show by competent evidence:

5.2.1 at the time of disclosure to Receiving Party is in the public domain;

5.2.2 after disclosure, becomes part of the public domain by publication or otherwise, except by breach

of this Agreement by the Receiving Party or anyone to whom the Receiving Party disclosed Confidential Information;

5.2.3 was (a) in the Receiving Party’s possession at the time of disclosure without any obligation to keep
it confidential or any restriction on its use or (b) subsequently and independently developed by the Receiving Party’s
employees who had no knowledge of and who did not use, rely on or refer to any of Disclosing Party’s Confidential
Information, in each case as shown by Receiving Party’s records; or

5.2.4 is received by the Receiving Party from a Third Party who has the lawful right to disclose such
Confidential Information and who has not obtained such Confidential Information either directly or indirectly from the
Disclosing Party.

5.3 Authorized Disclosure. To the extent (and only to the extent) that it is reasonably necessary or appropriate
to  fulfill  its  obligations  or  exercise  its  rights  under  this Agreement,  the  Receiving  Party  may  disclose  Confidential
Information belonging to the Disclosing Party in the following instances:

5.3.1 prosecuting or defending litigation;

5.3.2  subject  to  Sections  5.4  and  5.5,  required  by Applicable  Laws  (including  without  limitation  the
rules and regulations of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission or any national securities exchange) and with
judicial process; and

5.3.3 to Affiliates in connection with the performance of this Agreement and solely on a need-to-know

basis; to potential or actual collaborators (including without limitation actual and potential

18

 
Licensees),  who  prior  to  disclosure  must  be  bound  by  written  obligations  of  confidentiality  and  non-use  no  less
restrictive than the obligations set forth in this Article 5; to potential or actual investment bankers, investors, lenders,
acquirers, merger partners or other potential financial partners, and their attorneys and agents), who prior to disclosure
must be bound by written obligations of confidentiality and non-use no less restrictive than the obligations set forth in
this  Article  5;  or  employees,  independent  contractors  (including  without  limitation  contract  research  organizations,
contract manufacturing organizations, consultants and clinical investigators) or agents, each of whom prior to disclosure
must be bound by written obligations of confidentiality and non-use no less restrictive than the obligations set forth in
this Article  5; provided, however, that the Receiving Party will remain responsible for any failure by any Person who
receives Confidential Information pursuant to this Section 5.3.3 to treat such Confidential Information as required under
this Article 5.

If and whenever any Confidential Information is disclosed in accordance with this Section 5.3, such disclosure will not
cause any such information to cease to be Confidential Information except to the extent that such disclosure results in a
public disclosure of such information (other than in breach of this Agreement). Where reasonably possible and subject
to Sections 5.4 and 5.5, the Receiving Party will notify the Disclosing Party in writing of the Receiving Party’s intent to
make such disclosure pursuant to Sections 5.3.1–5.3.3 sufficiently prior to making such disclosure so as to allow the
Disclosing  Party  adequate  time  to  take  whatever  action  appropriate  to  protect  the  confidentiality  of  the  information
while still permitting such disclosure, and the Receiving Party will cooperate with the Disclosing Party in such efforts.

5.4 Required Disclosure. A Receiving Party may disclose Confidential Information of the Disclosing Party to
the  extent  such  disclosure  is  required  pursuant  to  interrogatories,  judicial  requests  for  information  or  documents,
subpoena,  civil  investigative  demand  issued  by  a  court  or  Governmental  Authority  or  as  otherwise  required  by
Applicable Law; provided, however, that the Receiving Party will notify the Disclosing Party promptly in writing upon
receipt thereof, giving (where practicable) the Disclosing Party sufficient advance notice to permit it to oppose, limit or
seek a protective order or confidential treatment for such disclosure; and provided, further, that the Receiving Party will
furnish only that portion of the Confidential Information that it is advised by counsel is legally required whether or not
a protective order or other similar order is obtained by the Disclosing Party.

5.5 Securities Filings. In the event a Party proposes to file with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission
or the securities regulators of any state or other jurisdiction a registration statement or any other disclosure document
which  describes  or  refers  to  this  Agreement  under  the  Securities  Act,  the  Securities  Exchange  Act,  of  1934,  as
amended, or any other applicable securities laws, such Party will notify the other Party in writing of such intention and
will provide such other Party with a copy of relevant portions of the proposed filing not less than five (5) days prior to
such  filing  (and  any  revisions  to  such  portions  of  the  proposed  filing  a  reasonable  time  prior  to  the  filing  thereof),
including without limitation any appendices to this Agreement, will consider in good faith the other Party’s comments
and will use reasonable efforts to obtain confidential treatment of any information concerning this Agreement that such
other  Party  requests,  no  later  than  two  (2)  days  prior  to  such  filing,  be  kept  confidential,  and  will  only  disclose
Confidential  Information  that  it  is  advised  by  counsel  is  legally  required  to  be  disclosed. No  such  notice  will  be
required under this Section 5.5 if the substance of the description of or reference to this

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Agreement contained in the proposed filing has been included in any previous filing made by the either Party hereunder
or otherwise approved by the other Party.

5.6 Disclosure of Agreement . Except as otherwise permitted under Section 5.3.3, neither Party may issue any
press  release  or  make  any  other  public  statement  or  other  disclosure  disclosing  to  any  Third  Party  any  information
relating to this Agreement or its terms or the transactions contemplated hereby without the prior written consent of the
other Party, such consent not to be unreasonably withheld, delayed, or conditioned.

ARTICLE 6  

PATENT MATTERS

6.1    Preparation,  Filing,  Prosecution,  and  Maintenance  of  Palvella  Patents .  Palvella  will  have  the
responsibility,  at  its  expense,  and  considering  in  good  faith  any  and  all  recommendations  of  Ligand,  for  the
preparation, filing, prosecution, and maintenance of the Palvella Patents, including any patent term extensions. Palvella
will deliver to Ligand within [***] after the end of each Calendar Quarter a written report summarizing in reasonable
detail  the  efforts  of  Palvella  in  the  prior  Calendar  Quarter  with  respect  to  the  preparation,  filing,  prosecution  and
maintenance of the Palvella Patents. Palvella will provide Ligand with notice of its intention to (a) permit any of the
Palvella Patents to be abandoned in any country in the Territory or (b) elect not to file a new patent application claiming
priority to a patent application within the Palvella Patents, either before such patent application’s issuance or within the
time period required for the filing of an international (i.e., Patent Cooperation Treaty), regional (including the European
Patent Office) or national patent application, in each case, at least [***] prior to such lapse or abandonment. In the event
of  any  such  lapse  or  abandonment,  Ligand  may  elect  to  assume  full  responsibility  for  the  continued  prosecution  and
maintenance  of  such  Palvella  Patents,  or  the  filing  of  such  new  patent  application,  in  each  case,  upon  obtaining
Palvella’s prior written consent, which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld, conditioned or delayed.

_______________________________

[***]  Certain  information  on  this  page  has  been  omitted  and  filed  separately  with  the  Commission. Confidential
treatment has been requested with respect to the omitted portions.

20

6.2 Intellectual Property Matters .

6.2.1 Procedures and Requirements .  In  the  event  that  either  Party  has  cause  to  believe  that  a  Third
Party may be infringing or misappropriating any of the Palvella Patents in the Field in the Territory, it will promptly
notify  the  other  Party  in  writing,  identifying  the  alleged  infringer  and  the  alleged  infringement  or  misappropriation
complained of and furnishing the information upon which such determination is based. Palvella will have the first right
but not the obligation to stop such infringement or misappropriation of the Palvella Patents by such Third Party in the
Field in the Territory or settle, pursuant to Section 6.2.2, with such Third Party.  If Palvella fails to take action within
[***]  following  its  receipt  of  a  notice  of  such  infringement  or  misappropriation,  then  Ligand,  upon  Palvella’s  prior
written consent, which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld, conditioned or delayed will have the right to take
action to stop such infringement or misappropriation. Upon reasonable request by the Party enforcing Palvella Patents
in  the  Field  in  the  Territory  (the  “ Enforcing  Party”),  the  other  Party  (the  “ Non-Enforcing  Party”)  will  give  the
Enforcing  Party  all  reasonable  information  and  assistance,  including  without  limitation  allowing  the  Enforcing  Party
access  to  the  Non-Enforcing  Party’s  files  and  documents  and  to  the  Non-Enforcing  Party’s  personnel  who  may  have
possession of relevant information and, if necessary or desirable for the Enforcing Party to prosecute any legal action,
joining  in  the  legal  action  as  a  party  using  counsel  of  its  own  choosing. Any  such  assistance  provided  by  a  Non-
Enforcing Party will be rendered at the Enforcing Party’s cost and expense and the Enforcing Party will reimburse the
Non-Enforcing Party for its reasonable and documented costs and expenses upon the Non-Enforcing Party’s request.

6.2.2  Settlement  of  an  Enforcement  Claim .  The  Enforcing  Party  will  have  the  right  to  control
settlement of any claims that a Third Party may be infringing or misappropriating any Palvella Patent in the Field and in
the Territory; provided, however, that if such settlement could reasonably be deemed to have a material adverse effect
on  the  Non-Enforcing  Party,  the  Enforcing  Party  will  not  enter  into  any  such  settlement  with  respect  to  any  Palvella
Patent  in  the  Territory  without  the  prior  written  consent  of  the  Non-Enforcing  Party  such  consent  not  to  be
unreasonably withheld, delayed, or conditioned.

6.2.3  Expenses  and  Recovery.  As  between  the  Parties,  the  Enforcing  Party  will  bear  all  costs  and
expenses  (including  without  limitation  any  costs  or  expenses  incurred  that  exceed  the  amounts  recovered  by  the
Enforcing Party pursuing any action under this Section 6.2.3) and payments awarded against or agreed to be paid by the
Enforcing  Party. Any amounts recovered by either Party pursuant to Section 6.2.1 or 6.2.2, whether by settlement or
judgment, will be allocated in accordance with the following: [***].

_______________________________

[***] Certain information on this page has been omitted and filed separately with the Commission. Confidential
treatment has been requested with respect to the omitted portions.

21

6.3 Infringement Claims by Third Parties . Ligand and Palvella each will promptly inform the other Party in
writing of any actual, threatened, or alleged infringement or misappropriation, based on the making, using, selling, or
offering  for  sale  of  a  Product  in  the  Field  in  the  Territory,  of  a  Third  Party’s  intellectual  property  rights  of  which  it
becomes  aware. Neither Party will acknowledge to a Third Party the validity of any such allegation or admit liability
with respect to any Product without the prior written consent of the other Party. Ligand and Palvella will each keep the
other advised of all material developments in the conduct of any proceedings in defending any claim of such alleged
infringement  or  misappropriation  and  will  cooperate  with  the  other  in  the  conduct  of  such  defense. In  no  event  may
either Party settle any such infringement or misappropriation claim in a manner that would materially adversely affect
or impose any obligation on the other Party, without such other Party’s prior written consent, such consent not to be
unreasonably withheld, delayed, or conditioned. Each Party will have the sole responsibility, at its cost and in its sole
discretion, for defending any such allegations or claims made against it.

6.4 Limitation on Reporting Obligations . Ligand acknowledges and agrees that (a) Palvella shall  not  be  in
breach of any of its obligations under this Agreement for failing to disclose any information of a Third Party that is not
expressly required to be disclosed under this Agreement, including notices, correspondence or reports, that Palvella is
not  permitted  to  disclose  under  its  confidentiality  obligations  to  such  Third  Party,  and  (b)  Ligand  may  be  excluded
from  access  to  any  information  or  material  if  Palvella  determines  in  good  faith  that  such  exclusion  is  reasonably
necessary to preserve the attorney-client privilege or other similar privilege; provided that Palvella will notify Ligand of
any such exclusion and, at Ligand’s request, will enter into a common interest agreement or similar agreement that will
permit  disclosure  of  such  information  or  material  while  preserving  the  attorney-client  privilege  or  other  similar
privilege.

6.5 Patent Marking. Palvella will include in all package inserts for all Products in each country in the Territory
in  which  Products  are  commercialized  a  patent  notice  that  includes  the  patent  numbers  of  all  Palvella  Patents  that
Cover such Product, its method of manufacture or use in such country.

ARTICLE 7  

TERM AND TERMINATION

7.1 Term and Expiration . The term of this Agreement will commence on the Effective Date, and will continue
for  as  long  as  payments  are  due  or  payable  under  this Agreement,  or  until  such  date  as  this Agreement  is  sooner
terminated in accordance with Section 7.2 or 7.3 or by mutual written consent of the Parties (the “Term”).

7.2  Termination by Ligand. Ligand may terminate this Agreement for any or no reason upon ninety (90) days

prior written notice to Palvella.

7.3 Termination for Material Breach .

7.3.1 If Ligand believes that Palvella is in material breach of this Agreement, then Ligand may deliver
notice of such breach to Palvella. In such notice Ligand will identify with specificity the alleged breach and the actions
or  conduct  that  it  wishes  Palvella  to  take  for  an  acceptable  and  prompt  cure  of  such  breach; provided  that  such
identified actions will not be binding upon Palvella with respect to the

22

actions that it may need to take to cure such breach. Palvella will have ninety (90) days to cure such breach. If Palvella
fails  to  cure  such  breach  within  such  cure  period,  Ligand  may,  subject  to  Section  7.3.2,  terminate  this Agreement
immediately  by  providing  Palvella  a  written  notice  at  the  end  of  such  cure  period. Notwithstanding  the  foregoing,  if
Palvella fails to cure such breach within such cure period, but within such cure period Palvella is using commercially
reasonable efforts to cure such breach, then Ligand may not terminate this Agreement for so long as Palvella is using
commercially reasonable efforts to cure such breach.

7.3.2 Notwithstanding  the  foregoing,  if  Palvella  disputes  in  good  faith  the  existence  or  materiality  of
such breach and provides notice to Ligand of such dispute within such cure period, Ligand will not have the right to
terminate this Agreement in accordance with this Section 7.3 unless and until it has been determined in accordance with
Article 11 that this Agreement was materially breached by Palvella and Palvella failed to cure such breach within the
applicable cure period. It is understood and acknowledged that during the pendency of such a dispute, all of the terms
and conditions of this Agreement will remain in effect and the Parties will continue to perform all of their respective
obligations  hereunder.  The  Parties  further  agree  that  any  payments  that  are  made  by  one  Party  to  the  other  Party
pursuant  to  this  Agreement  pending  resolution  of  the  dispute  will  be  promptly  refunded  if  a  court  or  arbitrator
determines pursuant to Article 11 that such payments are to be refunded by one Party to the other Party.

7.4  Continuing  Obligations.  Upon  expiration  or  termination  of  this  Agreement: (a)  neither  Party  will  be
relieved of any obligation that accrued prior to the effective date of such termination and (b) all amounts due or payable
to Ligand that were accrued prior to the effective date of termination will remain due and payable; provided  that  the
foregoing will not be deemed to limit Palvella’s indemnification obligations under this Agreement for acts or omissions
occurring  prior  to  the  effective  date  of  such  termination  that  are  the  subject  of  such  indemnification  even  if  the
indemnification amount cannot be accrued or determined as of the effective date of such termination.

7.5 Retention of Payments. Upon expiration or termination of this Agreement, Ligand will have the right to

retain all amounts previously paid to Ligand by Palvella.

7.6 Survival. Expiration  or  termination  of  this Agreement  for  any  reason  will  not  (a)  release  any  Party  from
any obligation that has accrued prior to the effective date of such expiration or termination, (b) preclude any Party from
claiming any other damages, compensation, or relief that it may be entitled to upon such expiration or termination, or
(c)  terminate  any  right  to  obtain  performance  of  any  obligation  provided  for  in  this  Agreement  that  will  survive
expiration or termination. Without limiting the foregoing, upon expiration or termination of this Agreement, the rights
and obligations of the Parties under Sections 7.4, 7.5, and this Section 7.6 and Articles 1, 5 (for the term set forth in
Section 5.1), 8, 10, 11, and 12 will survive such expiration or termination.

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ARTICLE 8  

INDEMNITY

8.1 Palvella Indemnity Obligations. Palvella will defend Ligand, its Affiliates, and their respective directors,
officers, employees, contractors, and agents (collectively, the “Indemnitees”), and will indemnify and hold harmless
the  Indemnitees,  from  and  against  any  liabilities,  losses,  costs,  damages,  fees,  or  expenses  incurred  by  such
Indemnitees, and reasonable attorney’s fees and other legal expenses with respect thereto, (“Losses”) arising out of any
allegation, claim, action, lawsuit, or other proceeding (“Claims”) brought against any Indemnitee to the extent directly
resulting  from  or  relating  to:  (a)  any  breach  by  Palvella  of  any  of  its  representations,  warranties,  covenants,  or
obligations  pursuant  to  this  Agreement,  (b)  research,  Development,  manufacturing,  Commercialization,  transfer,
importation or exportation, labeling, handling or storage, or use of or other exploitation of any Product by or on behalf
of Palvella, its Affiliates, Licensees, distributors, or contractors, including without limitation Claims brought following
the  Effective  Date  based  on  product  liability,  bodily  injury,  risk  of  bodily  injury,  death,  or  property  damage,  (c)  any
allegations of infringement or misappropriation of the intellectual property of any Third Party, (d) the gross negligence
or  willful  misconduct,  or  (e)  any  violation  of Applicable  Law  by  Palvella,  its Affiliates,  or  Licensees;  except  in  any
such case to the extent such Losses and Claims directly result from: (i) the gross negligence or willful misconduct of
Ligand, (ii) any breach by Ligand of any of its representations, warranties, covenants, or obligations pursuant to this
Agreement, or (iii) any violation of Applicable Law by Ligand.

8.2 Procedure. If  any  Indemnitee  intends  to  claim  indemnification  under  this Article  8,  the  Indemnitee  will
promptly  notify  Palvella  in  writing  of  any  Claim  in  respect  of  which  the  Indemnitee  intends  to  claim  such
indemnification,  and  Palvella  will  assume  the  defense  thereof  with  counsel  selected  by  Palvella  and  reasonably
acceptable to the Indemnitee; provided, however, that an Indemnitee will have the right to retain its own counsel, with
the  fees  and  expenses  to  be  paid  by  the  Indemnitee,  if  representation  of  such  Indemnitee  by  the  counsel  retained  by
Palvella  would  be  inappropriate  due  to  actual  or  potential  differing  interests  between  such  Indemnitee  and  any  other
Party represented by such counsel in such proceedings. Palvella will have the right to control the defense of, and settle,
dispose of or compromise any Claims for which it is providing indemnification under this Article 8; provided that the
prior  written  consent  of  the  Indemnitee  (which  will  not  be  unreasonably  withheld,  delayed,  or  conditioned)  will  be
required  in  the  event  any  such  settlement,  disposition  or  compromise  would  adversely  affect  the  interests  of  the
Indemnitee. The  failure  to  deliver  notice  to  Palvella  within  a  reasonable  time  after  the  commencement  of  any  such
action, to the extent prejudicial to Palvella’s ability to defend such action, will relieve Palvella of any liability to the
Indemnitee under this Article 8, but the omission to so deliver notice to Palvella will not relieve it of any liability that it
may have to any Indemnitee otherwise than under this Article 8. The Indemnitee under this Article 8, its employees,
and its agents, will cooperate with Palvella and its legal representatives in the investigation of any Claim covered by
this indemnification.

ARTICLE 9  

REPRESENTATIONS, WARRANTIES, AND COVENANTS

24

9.1 Mutual Representations and Warranties. Each Party represents and warrants to the other Party that:

9.1.1 it has the requisite corporate power and authority to enter into and perform its obligations under

this Agreement;

9.1.2 it has full legal power to extend the rights granted to the other under this Agreement;

9.1.3 it is not aware of any impediment that would inhibit its ability to perform the terms and conditions

imposed on it by this Agreement; and

9.1.4 it has taken all necessary action on its part required to authorize the execution and delivery of this

Agreement.

9.2 Further Representations and Warranties, and Covenants, of Palvella . Palvella represents and warrants

as of the Effective Date, and Palvella covenants, that:

9.2.1  it  has  enforceable  written  agreements  with  all  of  its  employees,  consultants,  or  independent
contractors  who  receive  Confidential  Information  under  this  Agreement  obligating  them  to  keep  such  information
confidential and to use such information only as permitted in this Agreement, and assigning to Palvella ownership of all
intellectual property rights created in the course of their employment;

9.2.2 as  of  the  Effective  Date,  it  has  the  full  right  to  grant  the  rights  to  receive  payments  granted  to
Ligand  under  this  Agreement,  and  is  not  currently  bound  by  any  agreement  with  any  Third  Party,  or  by  any
outstanding order, judgment, or decree of any court or administrative agency, that restricts it from granting to Ligand
the rights as set forth in this Agreement;

9.2.3 it has not granted as of the Effective Date any right, option, license or interest in or to any Palvella
Patents or Regulatory Filings that is in conflict with the rights granted to Ligand under this Agreement; and it has not
granted,  or  permitted  to  be  attached,  any  lien,  security  interest,  or  other  encumbrance  with  respect  to  the  Palvella
Patents or Regulatory Filings;

9.2.4  During  the  Term,  Palvella  will  not  create,  incur,  assume  or  suffer  to  exist  any  lien,  security
interest, or other encumbrance on the Palvella Patents or Regulatory Filings, except to the extent that such lien, security
interest, or encumbrance does not have an adverse effect on the interest of Ligand in PTX-022, including the right to
receive payments and related information under this Agreement;

9.2.5 Palvella has no Knowledge of any infringement or misappropriation by any Third Party of any of

the Palvella Patents or Regulatory Filings as of the Effective Date;

9.2.6 to  Palvella’s  Knowledge,  Palvella  solely  owns  the   Palvella  Patents  existing  as  of  the  Effective
Date, including without limitation all patents and patent applications set forth on Appendix B, and such ownership has
been duly recorded with the PTO or corresponding Governmental Authorities;

9.2.7 Appendix B contains a true and complete list of all patents and patent applications of the Palvella

Patents as of the Effective Date;

25

9.2.8  Palvella  has  not  utilized  and  will  not  utilize,  in  the  Development  or  Commercialization  of  a

Product, any Person that at such time, to Palvella’s Knowledge, is debarred by FDA or other Regulatory Authority;

9.2.9 To Palvella’s Knowledge, Palvella has obtained, and during the Term will maintain, all licenses,
authorizations, and permissions necessary under Applicable Law for meeting and performing its obligations under this
Agreement and all such licenses, authorizations, and permissions are in full force and effect;

9.2.10 To Palvella’s Knowledge, all of Palvella’s activities related to its use of Palvella Patents, and the
Development  and  Commercialization  of  the  Products  comply  in  all  material  respects  with  Applicable  Laws,  and
Palvella will use good faith efforts in compliance in all material respects with Applicable Laws during the Term;

9.2.11  Palvella  has  not  incurred,  and  does  not  presently  intend  to  incur,  debts,  liabilities,  or  other
obligations beyond its ability to pay such debts, liabilities, or other obligations as they become absolute and matured.
Palvella  is  not  subject  to  any  Bankruptcy  Event,  and  no  action  has  been  taken  or  is  intended  by  Palvella  or,  to  its
Knowledge, any other Person, to make Palvella subject to a Bankruptcy Event;

9.2.12 Palvella shall provide Ligand with written notice as promptly as possible (but in no event more

than [***]) after acquiring Knowledge of the occurrence of a Bankruptcy Event in respect of Palvella;

9.2.13 the  claims  and  rights  of  Ligand  created  by  this Agreement  to  receive  the  payments  set  forth  in
Article 4 are not and shall not be subordinated to any creditor of Palvella or any other Person (other than as a result of
Ligand’s own election);

9.2.14 Palvella and, to its Knowledge, its Affiliates and Licensees and their respective employees and
contractors have not, and Palvella and its Affiliates will not, and will use good faith efforts to cause its Licensees and
their respective employees and contractors to not, directly or indirectly through Third Parties, pay, promise, or offer to
pay, or authorize the payment of, any money or give any promise or offer to give, or authorize the giving of anything
of  value  to  a  Public  Official  or  Entity  or  other  Person  for  purpose  of  obtaining  or  retaining  business  for  or  with,  or
directing  business  to,  any  Person,  including  without  limitation  Ligand  or  Palvella. Without  any  limitation  to  the
foregoing,  Palvella  and  its  Affiliates  and  Licensees  and  their  respective  employees  and  contractors  have  not,  and
Palvella and its Affiliates will not, and will use good faith efforts to cause its Licensees and their respective employees
and contractors to not, directly or indirectly promise, offer, or provide any corrupt payment, gratuity, emolument, bribe,
kickback, illicit gift, or hospitality or other illegal or unethical benefit to a Public Official or Entity or any other Person;

_______________________________

[***]  Certain  information  on  this  page  has  been  omitted  and  filed  separately  with  the  Commission. Confidential
treatment has been requested with respect to the omitted portions.

26

9.2.15  Palvella  is  aware  of  all  applicable  anti-corruption  and  anti-bribery  laws,  including  without
limitation the FCPA, and all applicable anti-corruption laws in effect in the countries in which Palvella conducts or will
conduct business. Palvella and its Affiliates will not, and Palvella will use good faith efforts to cause its Licensees and
their  respective  employees  and  contractors  to  not,  cause  any  Indemnitees  to  be  in  violation  of  the  FCPA,  Export
Control Laws, or any other Applicable Laws;

9.2.16  Palvella  and  its  Affiliates  will  fully  cooperate  and  will  use  good  faith  efforts  to  cause  its
Licensees  and  their  respective  employees,  contractors,  and  subcontractors  to  cooperate  fully  with  the  Indemnitees  in
ensuring compliance with the FCPA, Export Control Laws, and all other Applicable Laws.  During the Term, Palvella
will provide Ligand with such due diligence information relating to compliance with the FCPA, Export Control Laws,
and other Applicable Laws by Palvella and its Affiliates, subcontractors, and Licensees and their respective principals,
directors, officers, employees, representatives, and contractors, as Ligand may reasonably request; and

9.2.17  Palvella  will  promptly  notify  Ligand  if  Palvella  has  any  information  or  reasonable  belief  that
there  may  be  a  violation  of  the  FCPA,  Export  Control  Laws,  or  any  other Applicable  Law  in  connection  with  the
performance of this Agreement or the sale of the Product in the Territory.

9.3  Further  Representations  and  Warranties  of  Ligand .  Ligand  represents  and  warrants  that,  as  of  the

Effective Date, Ligand is an Accredited Investor.

ARTICLE 10 

DISCLAIMER; LIMITATION OF LIABILITY

10.1  DISCLAIMER.  EXCEPT  AS  PROVIDED  UNDER  ARTICLE  9,  EACH  PARTY  EXPRESSLY
DISCLAIMS ANY AND ALL WARRANTIES OF ANY KIND, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING WITHOUT
LIMITATION  THE  WARRANTIES  OF  DESIGN,  MERCHANTABILITY,  FITNESS  FOR  A  PARTICULAR
PURPOSE,  NONINFRINGEMENT  OF  THE  INTELLECTUAL  PROPERTY  RIGHTS  OF  THIRD  PARTIES,  OR
ARISING FROM A COURSE OF DEALING, USAGE OR TRADE PRACTICES, IN ALL CASES WITH RESPECT
THERETO.

10.2 LIMITATION OF LIABILITY.

10.2.1 NEITHER PARTY WILL BE LIABLE FOR INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, CONSEQUENTIAL,
SPECIAL,  EXEMPLARY,  PUNITIVE,  OR  MULTIPLE  DAMAGES  ARISING  IN  CONNECTION  WITH  THIS
AGREEMENT  OR  THE  EXERCISE  OF  ITS  RIGHTS  OR  PERFORMANCE  OF  ITS  OBLIGATIONS
HEREUNDER, OR FOR LOST PROFITS OR LOSS OF USE ARISING FROM OR RELATING TO ANY BREACH
OF THIS AGREEMENT, REGARDLESS OF ANY NOTICE OF SUCH DAMAGES.

10.2.2  NOTWITHSTANDING  ANYTHING  IN  THIS  AGREEMENT  TO  THE  CONTRARY,
SECTION  10.2.1  WILL  NOT  LIMIT  OR  RESTRICT  (A)  DAMAGES  AVAILABLE  FOR  BREACHES  OF
CONFIDENTIALITY  OBLIGATIONS  UNDER  ARTICLE  5,  (B)  THE  INDEMNIFICATION  OBLIGATIONS
UNDER  ARTICLE  8,  OR  (C)  THE  OBLIGATIONS  TO  PAY  MILESTONE  PAYMENTS  AND  ROYALTIES
UNDER SECTIONS 4.2 AND 4.3.

27

10.3 No Assumed Obligations. Notwithstanding any provision in this Agreement, Ligand is not assuming any
liability or obligation of Palvella or any of Palvella’s Affiliates of whatever nature, whether presently in existence or
arising  or  asserted  hereafter.  All  such  liabilities  and  obligations  shall  be  retained  by  and  remain  liabilities  and
obligations of Palvella or its Affiliates, as the case may be.

ARTICLE 11  

DISPUTE RESOLUTION

11.1  Resolution  by  Senior  Executives .  The  Parties  will  seek  to  settle  amicably  any  and  all  disputes  or
differences  arising  out  of  or  in  connection  with  this Agreement. Any  dispute  between  the  Parties  will  be  promptly
presented  to  the  Chief  Executive  Officer  of  Palvella  and  the  Chief  Executive  Officer  of  Ligand,  or  their  respective
designees, for resolution. Such officers, or their designees, will attempt in good faith to promptly resolve such dispute.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, either Party may seek equitable or interim relief or provisional remedy in any court of
competent  jurisdiction  to  enforce  its  rights  under  this Agreement,  including  without  limitation  injunctive  relief  and
specific  performance,  without  having  to  prove  actual  damages  or  post  a  bond.  If  the  Chief  Executive  Officers  of  the
Parties, or their respective designees, are unable to resolve a given dispute within thirty (30) days of the matter being
referred to them, either Party may have the dispute adjudicated in accordance with Section 11.2.

11.2 Applicable  Law  and  Venue.   This Agreement  will  be  governed  by,  enforced,  and  will  be  construed  in
accordance with the laws of the State of New York, United States of America without regard to any Applicable Law,
rule, or principle that would result in the application of the laws of any other jurisdiction. All actions and proceedings
arising out of or relating to this Agreement will be heard and determined exclusively in any New York State or federal
court sitting in the Southern District of New York, and each Party hereby irrevocably consents to personal jurisdiction
and venue in, and agrees to service of process issued or authorized by, such court in any such action or proceeding and
irrevocably  waive  any  defense  of  an  inconvenient  forum  to  the  maintenance  of  any  such  action  or  proceeding.
Notwithstanding  the  foregoing,  either  Party  may  seek  injunctive  relief  in  any  court  in  any  jurisdiction  where
appropriate.

ARTICLE 12  

MISCELLANEOUS

12.1 Assignment. This Agreement  may  not  be  assigned  or  otherwise  transferred  by  either  Party  without  the
consent  of  the  other  Party,  which  consent  will  not  be  unreasonably  withheld,  delayed,  or  conditioned; provided,
however,  that  either  Party  may,  without  such  consent,  assign  this  Agreement  together  with  all  of  its  rights  and
obligations  hereunder  to  its Affiliates,  or  to  a  successor  in  interest  in  connection  with  the  transfer  or  sale  of  all  or
substantially all of its business to which this Agreement relates, or in the event of a Change of Control, subject to the
assignee  agreeing  to  be  bound  by  the  terms  of  this Agreement  and,  if  Palvella  is  the  assigning  Party,  guarantees  or
similar  or  better  credit  support  being  provided,  as  necessary,  to  ensure  that  Ligand  has  substantially  identical  credit
recourse. Any  purported  assignment  in  violation  of  the  preceding  sentences  will  be  void. Any  permitted  assignee  or
successor will assume and be bound by all obligations of its assignor or predecessor under this Agreement.

28

12.2 Severability. If any provision of this Agreement is held to be invalid or unenforceable, all other provisions
will continue in full force and effect, and the Parties will substitute for the invalid or unenforceable provision a valid
and enforceable provision which conforms as nearly as possible with the original intent of the Parties.

12.3 Notices. Any  notice  or  other  communication  to  a  Party  pursuant  to  this Agreement  will  be  sufficiently
made or given on the date it was sent; provided that such notice or other communication is sent by first class certified
or registered mail, postage prepaid, or is sent by next day express delivery service, addressed to it at its address in this
Section 12.3, below, or to such other address as the Party to whom notice is to be given may have furnished to the other
Party in writing in accordance herewith.

If to Ligand:

Ligand Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
3911 Sorrento Valley Boulevard, Suite 110  
San Diego, California 92121, U.S.A.
Attention: Chief Financial Officer

With a copy to (which alone will not constitute notice):

Ligand Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
3911 Sorrento Valley Boulevard, Suite 110  
San Diego, California 92121, U.S.A.
Attention: General Counsel

If to Palvella, to:

Palvella Therapeutics, Inc.
125 Strafford Avenue, Suite #360  
Wayne, PA 19087
Attention: Wes Kaupinen, President and CEO

With a copy to (which alone will not constitute notice):

Hogan Lovells US LLP
100 International Drive, Suite 2000  
Baltimore, MD 21202
Attention: Asher M. Rubin

12.4 Expenses. Except as expressly set forth in this Agreement or as may be specifically agreed to in writing by
Palvella  and  Ligand,  each  Party  will  be  responsible  for  all  costs  and  expenses  it  incurs  in  connection  with  this
Agreement.

12.5 Headings. The headings of Articles and Sections of this Agreement are for ease of reference only and will

not affect the meaning or interpretation of this Agreement in any way.

29

12.6 Waiver. The failure of either Party in any instance to insist upon the strict performance of the terms of this
Agreement will not be construed to be waiver or relinquishment of any of the terms of this Agreement, either at the
time of the Party’s failure to insist upon strict performance or at any time in the future, and such terms will continue in
full force and effect.

12.7  Counterparts;  Electronic  Delivery.  This  Agreement  and  any  amendment  may  be  executed  in  one  or
more  counterparts  (including  without  limitation  by  way  of  PDF  or  electronic  transmission),  each  of  which  will  be
deemed  an  original,  but  all  of  which  together  will  constitute  one  and  the  same  instrument. When  executed  by  the
Parties, this Agreement will constitute an original instrument, notwithstanding any electronic transmission, storage and
printing of copies of this Agreement from computers or printers. For clarity, PDF signatures will be treated as original
signatures.

12.8 Use of Names. Neither Party will, without prior written consent of the other Party, use the name or any
trademark  or  trade  name  owned  by  the  other  Party,  or  owned  by  an Affiliate  of  the  other  Party,  in  any  publication,
publicity, advertising, or otherwise, except as expressly permitted by Article 5.

12.9  Independent  Contractors.  Nothing  contained  in  this  Agreement  will  be  deemed  to  constitute  a  joint
venture, partnership, or employer-employee relationship between Ligand and Palvella, or to constitute one as the agent
of the other. Neither Party will be entitled to any benefits applicable to employees of the other Party. Both Parties will
act  solely  as  independent  contractors,  and  nothing  in  this Agreement  will  be  construed  to  make  one  Party  an  agent,
employee, or legal representative of the other Party for any purpose or to give either Party the power or authority to act
for, bind, or commit the other Party.

12.10 Entire Agreement. This Agreement, together with the Appendices attached hereto, constitutes the entire
agreement and understanding between the Parties with respect to the subject matter hereof, and supersedes all prior or
contemporaneous  proposals,  oral  or  written,  confidentiality  agreements,  and  all  other  communications  between  the
Parties with respect to such subject matter, including without limitation the Prior CDA.

12.11 Modifications. The terms and conditions of this Agreement may not be amended or modified, except in

writing signed by both Parties.

12.12 Exports. The Parties acknowledge that the export of technical data, materials, or products is subject to
the exporting Party receiving any necessary export licenses and that the Parties cannot be responsible for any delays
attributable to export controls which are beyond the reasonable control of either Party. Palvella and Ligand agree not to
export or re-export, directly or indirectly, any information, technical data, the direct product of such data, samples, or
equipment received or generated under this Agreement in violation of any applicable export control laws.

12.13 Further Assurances. Each Party agrees to do and perform all such further reasonable acts and things and
will  execute  and  deliver  such  other  agreements,  certificates,  instruments,  and  documents  necessary  to  carry  out  the
intent and accomplish the purposes of this Agreement.

12.14 Interpretation.

12.14.1  This  Agreement  was  prepared  in  the  English  language,  which  language  will  govern  the

interpretation of, and any dispute regarding, the terms of this Agreement.

30

12.14.2 Each of the Parties acknowledges and agrees that this Agreement has been diligently reviewed
by  and  negotiated  by  and  between  them,  that  in  such  negotiations  each  of  them  has  been  represented  by  competent
counsel and that the final agreement contained herein, including without limitation the language whereby it has been
expressed,  represents  the  joint  efforts  of  the  Parties  and  their  counsel. Accordingly,  in  the  event  an  ambiguity  or  a
question of intent or interpretation arises, this Agreement will be construed as if drafted jointly by the Parties and no
presumption  or  burden  of  proof  will  arise  favoring  or  disfavoring  any  Party  by  virtue  of  the  authorship  of  any
provisions of this Agreement.

12.14.3 The  definitions  of  the  terms  herein  will  apply  equally  to  the  singular  and  plural  forms  of  the
terms  defined. Whenever  the  context  may  require,  any  pronoun  will  include  the  corresponding  masculine,  feminine,
and neuter forms. The word “any” will mean “any and all” unless otherwise clearly indicated by context.

12.14.4  Unless  the  context  requires  otherwise,  (a)  any  definition  of  or  reference  to  any  agreement,
instrument, or other document herein will be construed as referring to such agreement, instrument, or other document as
from  time  to  time  amended,  supplemented,  or  otherwise  modified  (subject  to  any  restrictions  on  such  amendments,
supplements  or  modifications  set  forth  herein  or  therein),  (b)  any  reference  to  any Applicable  Laws  herein  will  be
construed as referring to such Applicable Laws as from time to time enacted, repealed, or amended, (c) any reference
herein  to  any  Person  will  be  construed  to  mean  the  Person’s  successors  and  assigns  (after  any  such  succession  or
assignment), (d) the words “herein”, “hereof” and “hereunder”, and words of similar import, will be construed to refer
to  this Agreement  in  its  entirety  and  not  to  any  particular  provision  hereof,  and  (e)  all  references  herein  to Articles,
Sections,  or Appendices,  unless  otherwise  specifically  provided,  will  be  construed  to  refer  to Articles,  Sections,  and
Appendices of this Agreement.

12.14.5 References to sections of the Code of Federal Regulations and to the United States Code will

mean the cited sections, as these may be amended from time to time.

12.15 Force Majeure Event. Except for the payment of money, neither Party will be in breach or default, nor
will either Party be liable or responsible to the other Party for losses or damages, nor will either Party have the right to
terminate this Agreement, for any breach, default or delay by the other Party that is attributable to an event beyond their
reasonable  control,  including  without  limitation  acts  of  God,  acts  of  government  (including  without  limitation
injunctions),  fire,  flood,  earthquake,  strike,  lockout,  labor  dispute,  breakdown  of  plant,  shortage  of  equipment  or
supplies, loss or unavailability of manufacturing facilities or materials, casualty or accident, stoppage or interruption of
transportation or utilities, civil commotion, acts of public enemies, acts of terrorism or threat of terrorist acts, blockage
or embargo and the like (each, a “Force Majeure Event”); provided, however, that such Party will use commercially
reasonable efforts to avoid and/or minimize the impact of such occurrence, and give prompt written notice of any Force
Majeure Event to the other Party.

[Signature Page Follows] 

31

IN  WITNESS  WHEREOF ,  each  of  the  Parties  has  caused  its  duly  authorized  officer  to  execute  and  deliver  this
Agreement as of the Effective Date.

LIGAND PHARMACEUTICALS, INC.

By:  /s/ Matthew Korenberg  

Name: Matthew Korenberg   

Title: Chief Financial Officer and EVP Finance

PALVELLA THERAPEUTICS, INC.

By:  /s/ Wesley H. Kaupinen   

Name: Wesley H. Kaupinen  

Title: President & CEO   

[Signature Page to Development Funding and Royalties Agreement]

1

Appendix A

PTX-022 

PTX-022  is  a  novel,  [***]  high-strength  rapamycin  topical  [***]  formulation  [***],  optimized  for  dermal  targeting,
which is the subject of clinical development pursuant to FDA IND No. 117347.

_______________________________
[***] Certain information on this page has been omitted and filed separately with the Commission. Confidential
treatment has been requested with respect to the omitted portions.

2

 
[***]

Appendix B

Palvella Patents 

_____________________________
[***] Certain information on this page has been omitted and filed separately with the Commission. Confidential
treatment has been requested with respect to the omitted portions.

3

Appendix C

Development Plan

 Secure FDA Fast Track Designation as basis for expedited development and review (Achieved on November

5, 2018)

o Provides for rolling review of NDA submission
o Opportunity for Priority Review (Priority Review designation means FDA's goal is to take action on an

NDA within 6 months, compared to 10 months under standard review)

•

[***]

______________________________

[***] Certain information on this page has been omitted and filed separately with the Commission. Confidential
treatment has been requested with respect to the omitted portions.

4

Appendix D

Development Budget

[***]

_________________________

[***] Certain information on this page has been omitted and filed separately with the Commission. Confidential
treatment has been requested with respect to the omitted portions.

5

LIGAND PHARMACEUTICALS INCORPORATED
LIST OF SUBSIDIARIES

Exhibit 21.1

Name
Glycomed Incorporated     
Allergan Ligand Retinoid Therapeutics, Inc.
Ligand Pharmaceuticals International, Inc.
Ligand Biopharmaceuticals Incorporated
Ligand JVR, Inc.
Ligand Pharmaceuticals UK Limited
Ligand Pharmaceuticals (Canada) Incorporated
Seragen Incorporated
Seragen Technology, Inc.
Pharmacopeia, LLC
Metabasis Therapeutics, Inc.
Neurogen Corporation
CyDex Pharmaceuticals, Inc.   
Open Monoclonal Technology, Inc.
OMT I, Inc.
OMT II, Inc.
Crystal Bioscience, Inc.
Vernalis plc
Vernalis (R&D) Limited
Vernalis Group Limited
Vernalis Therapeutics Inc.
Vernalis (Canada) Inc.
Vernalis (Canada II) Inc.
Vernalis Development Limited
Vernalis Research Limited
Cita NeuroPharmaceuticals Inc.

Jurisdiction of Incorporation
California
Delaware
Delaware
Delaware
Delaware
United Kingdom
Canada
Delaware
Delaware
Delaware
Delaware
Delaware
Delaware
Delaware
Delaware
Delaware
California
England and Wales
England and Wales
England and Wales
Delaware
Canada
Canada
England and Wales
England and Wales
Canada

Exhibit 23.1

Consent of Ernst & Young LLP, Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

We consent to the incorporation by reference in the following Registration Statements:

(1) Registration Statement (Form S-8 No. 333-212775) pertaining to the 2002 Stock Incentive Plan, as amended and restated of Ligand
Pharmaceuticals Incorporated,

(2) Registration Statement (Form S-8 No. 333-182547) pertaining to the 2002 Stock Incentive Plan, as amended and restated of Ligand
Pharmaceuticals Incorporated,

(3) Registration Statement (Form S-8 No. 333-160132) pertaining to the 2002 Stock Incentive Plan, as amended and restated, and
Employee Stock Purchase Plan, as amended and restated of Ligand Pharmaceuticals Incorporated, and

(4) Registration Statement (Form S-8 No. 333-131029) pertaining to the 2002 Stock Incentive Plan and 2002 Employee Stock Purchase
Plan of Ligand Pharmaceuticals Incorporated;

of our reports dated February 28, 2019, with respect to the consolidated financial statements of Ligand Pharmaceuticals Incorporated and
the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting of Ligand Pharmaceuticals Incorporated included in this Annual Report (Form
10-K) of Ligand Pharmaceuticals Incorporated for the year ended December 31, 2018.

San Diego, California
February 28, 2019

/s/ Ernst & Young LLP

 
  
 
 
I, John L. Higgins, certify that:

Exhibit 31.1

1. I have reviewed this Annual Report on Form 10-K of Ligand Pharmaceuticals Incorporated;

2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material
fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made,
not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly

present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and
for, the periods presented in this report;

4. The registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and
procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting
(as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:

a)

b)

c)

d)

designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures
to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant,
including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities,
particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial
reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the
reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in
accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant's disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this
report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end
of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that
occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the
case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the
registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and

5. The registrant's other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control
over financial reporting, to the registrant's auditors and the audit committee of the registrant's board of directors (or
persons performing the equivalent functions):

a)

b)

Date:  February 28, 2019

all significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over
financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant's ability to record,
process, summarize and report financial information; and

any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a
significant role in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting.

/s/ John L. Higgins
John L. Higgins
Chief Executive Officer
(Principal Executive Officer)

I, Matthew Korenberg, certify that:

1. I have reviewed this Annual Report on Form 10-K of Ligand Pharmaceuticals Incorporated;

Exhibit 31.2

2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material
fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made,
not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly

present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and
for, the periods presented in this report;

4. The registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and
procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting
(as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:

a)

b)

c)

d)

designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures
to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant,
including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities,
particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial
reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the
reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in
accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant's disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this
report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end
of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that
occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the
case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the
registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and

5. The registrant's other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control
over financial reporting, to the registrant's auditors and the audit committee of the registrant's board of directors (or
persons performing the equivalent functions):

a)

b)

all significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over
financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant's ability to record,
process, summarize and report financial information; and

any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a
significant role in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting.

Date:    February 28, 2019

/s/ Matthew Korenberg
Matthew Korenberg
Executive Vice President, Finance and Chief Financial Officer
(Principal Financial Officer)

Exhibit 32.1

CERTIFICATION OF PRINCIPAL EXECUTIVE OFFICER

In connection with the Annual Report of Ligand Pharmaceuticals Incorporated (the “Company”) on Form 10-K for the year ended

December 31, 2018, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the “Report”), I, John L. Higgins, Chief

Executive Officer of the Company, certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley

Act of 2002, that to my knowledge:

(1)

The Report fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or Section 15(d), as applicable, of the Securities Exchange
Act of 1934, as amended; and

(2) 
Date:

The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of
operations of the Company.
February 28, 2019

/s/ John L. Higgins

John L. Higgins
Chief Executive Officer
(Principal Executive Officer)

The foregoing certification is being furnished solely to accompany the Report pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, and is not being

filed for purposes of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and is not to be incorporated by reference into any

filing of the Company, whether made before or after the date hereof, regardless of any general incorporation language in such filing. A

signed original of this written statement required by Section 906 has been provided to the Company and will be retained by the Company

and furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission or its staff upon request.

CERTIFICATION OF PRINCIPAL FINANCIAL OFFICER

In connection with the Annual Report of Ligand Pharmaceuticals Incorporated (the “Company”) on Form 10-K for the year ended

December 31, 2018, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the “Report”), I, Matthew Korenberg,

Executive Vice President, Finance and Chief Financial Officer of the Company, certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted

pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that to my knowledge:

(1)

The Report fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or Section 15(d), as applicable, of the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934, as amended; and

(2) 

Date:

The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of
operations of the Company.

February 28, 2019

/s/ Matthew Korenberg

Matthew Korenberg
Executive Vice President, Finance and Chief
Financial Officer
(Principal Financial Officer)

The foregoing certification is being furnished solely to accompany the Report pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, and is not being

filed for purposes of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and is not to be incorporated by reference into any

filing of the Company, whether made before or after the date hereof, regardless of any general incorporation language in such filing. A

signed original of this written statement required by Section 906 has been provided to the Company and will be retained by the Company

and furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission or its staff upon request.