Lilly to acquire Verve Therapeutics to advance one-time treatments for people with high cardiovascular risk

Core Viewpoint - Eli Lilly and Company has announced a definitive agreement to acquire Verve Therapeutics, a clinical-stage company focused on genetic medicines for cardiovascular disease, with the aim of transforming treatment from chronic care to a single-dose solution [1][2][3] Company Overview - Verve Therapeutics is developing gene editing medicines targeting atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD), with its lead program VERVE-102 focusing on the PCSK9 gene, which is linked to cholesterol levels [2][7] - VERVE-102 is currently in a Phase 1b clinical trial and has received Fast Track designation from the U.S. FDA, indicating its potential significance in treating conditions like heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia [2][3] Acquisition Details - Under the acquisition agreement, Lilly will offer $10.50 per share in cash for Verve's outstanding shares, totaling approximately $1.0 billion, with potential additional contingent value rights (CVR) bringing the total to up to $13.50 per share, or approximately $1.3 billion [3][4] - The purchase price represents a premium of about 113% over Verve's 30-day volume-weighted average trading price as of June 16, 2025 [4] - The transaction is expected to close in the third quarter of 2025, subject to customary closing conditions [3][4] Strategic Rationale - Lilly's acquisition of Verve is seen as a strategic move to enhance its capabilities in cardiometabolic disease and genetic medicines, aligning with Verve's vision to provide lifelong cardiovascular risk reduction through innovative treatments [1][3] - The collaboration is anticipated to accelerate the development of Verve's gene editing programs, addressing significant unmet medical needs in cardiovascular care [3][7] Shareholder Support - Verve's board of directors unanimously recommends that shareholders tender their shares in the tender offer, and key stakeholders representing approximately 17.8% of Verve's outstanding common stock have signed support agreements [5][4]