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][3][4] 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] - Lilly's capabilities in cardiometabolic disease and genetic medicines complement Verve's vision, enhancing the potential for innovative treatments [1][3] Acquisition Details - Lilly will acquire all outstanding shares of Verve for $10.50 per share in cash, totaling approximately $1.0 billion, with potential additional contingent value rights (CVR) bringing total consideration up to $13.50 per share, or approximately $1.3 billion [3][4] - The purchase price represents a premium of approximately 113% over Verve's 30-day volume-weighted average trading price prior to the announcement [4] - The transaction is expected to close in the third quarter of 2025, subject to customary closing conditions [3][4] Strategic Implications - The acquisition is expected to accelerate the development of Verve's gene editing programs, addressing significant unmet medical needs in cardiovascular care [3][6] - Lilly aims to leverage its global research and commercial capabilities to enhance the development of Verve's innovative treatments [3][8]