On June 17, 2025, Eli Lilly & Co., a US-based pharmaceutical giant, announced its plan to acquire Verve Therapeutics Inc., a gene-editing biotech company, for $1.3 billion. This move is part of Eli Lilly's strategy to invest in experimental medicine for long-term growth, as reported by Bloomberg.

The acquisition deal will see Eli Lilly paying up to $13.50 per share, with $10.50 in cash and a non-tradeable contingent value right of up to $3 per share. The transaction is expected to close in the third quarter of the current year.

Following the announcement, Verve Therapeutics' shares surged by 75.12% to $10.99 at the US stock market open, while Eli Lilly & Co.'s shares dipped by 1.45% to $795.84.

Eli Lilly's Revenue Strategy

Eli Lilly's revenue primarily comes from its weight-loss drug, Zepbound, as it prepares for the drug's patent expiration. The company has been focusing on experimental medicines that are still in the early stages of development, offering potential long-term returns.

In January 2025, Eli Lilly acquired Scorpion Therapeutics Inc. for up to $2.5 billion for a cancer medicine, and in May, it announced the purchase of SiteOne Therapeutics Inc., a biotech firm specializing in pain medicines, for nearly $1 billion.

Eli Lilly's Collaboration with Verve Therapeutics

Eli Lilly had been working with Verve Therapeutics on an experimental gene-editing program aimed at reducing lipoprotein levels, a risk factor for arterial plaque buildup. This acquisition will give Eli Lilly full control over the program, showcasing its confidence in gene editing technology.

While gene editing technology has faced challenges due to its high costs and focus on rare diseases, Verve Therapeutics stands out by targeting a disease affecting a larger population and offering better commercial prospects. Its innovative approach, using lipid nanoparticles to deliver treatment, is more cost-effective than traditional gene therapies.