“`html
Eli Lilly (LLY) has signed a definitive agreement to acquire Verve Therapeutics (VERV) for nearly $1.3 billion. This acquisition aims to enhance Lilly’s pipeline with Verve’s gene therapies targeting heart diseases, such as VERVE-102, an investigational treatment for cholesterol reduction. The transaction, expected to be finalized in the third quarter, remains subject to regulatory approval.
This marks Lilly’s third significant acquisition in 2025, following a $2.5 billion deal for Scorpion Therapeutics and a $1 billion acquisition of SiteOne Therapeutics, demonstrating Lilly’s strategic diversification into oncology and neuroscience alongside its existing focus on GLP-1 drugs.
In addition, Sanofi (SNY) is proceeding with its acquisition of Blueprint Medicines valued at up to $9.5 billion to expand its portfolio in immunology. The ongoing trend of mergers and acquisitions in the pharma sector is anticipated to continue, driven by significant cash reserves and investor pressure for diversification.
“`
