Eli Lilly Nears $1.3B Acquisition of Gene Editing Firm Verve Therapeutics

Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE: LLY) is reportedly in advanced talks to acquire gene editing biotech Verve Therapeutics Inc. (NASDAQ: VERV) in a deal valued at up to $1.3 billion, according to the Financial Times. This move underscores Eli Lilly’s aggressive expansion into genetic medicine as it seeks to boost its pipeline of experimental drugs.

Verve Therapeutics’ stock skyrocketed nearly 73% in after-hours trading, reaching $10.76, following the news. The proposed deal would include a $1 billion upfront payment and an additional $300 million tied to performance-based milestones. The acquisition price values Verve at approximately double its market capitalization of just over $500 million as of Monday's close.

The Boston-based Verve specializes in in vivo gene editing treatments aimed at cardiovascular disease. Eli Lilly’s interest lies in leveraging Verve’s proprietary CRISPR-based technology to diversify and enhance its R&D capabilities.

This potential acquisition adds to Eli Lilly’s recent M&A streak. Earlier in 2025, the pharmaceutical giant acquired Scorpion Therapeutics for $2.5 billion and SiteOne Therapeutics for $1 billion, signaling a clear strategy to invest in innovative biotech platforms.

Despite broader industry challenges, Eli Lilly continues to outperform competitors, driven by strong sales of its diabetes and weight-loss drugs Mounjaro and Zepbound. By acquiring Verve, Lilly aims to strengthen its long-term competitiveness in the fast-evolving field of gene therapies.

Investors are watching closely as the deal, if finalized, could mark a major turning point for both companies and the broader gene editing space. Eli Lilly’s push into advanced therapeutics reaffirms its leadership in shaping the future of precision medicine and biopharmaceutical innovation.