Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and other central nervous system agents. Its fluorinated benzofuran core enhances metabolic stability and bioavailability in drug candidates. Commonly employed in medicinal chemistry for constructing bioactive molecules due to its favorable electronic and steric properties. Also utilized in the preparation of analogs for structure-activity relationship (SAR) studies.