As of the most recent check, Verve Therapeutics, Inc. (NASDAQ: VERV) had a significant pre-market increase of 76.55%, reaching $11.07 per share. The disclosure that Eli Lilly and Company had reached a final agreement to purchase VERV in a deal that may be worth up to $1.3 billion has given the move speed.
Expansion into Cardiovascular Gene Editing Strategically
A biotechnology business in its clinical stage, Verve Therapeutics is at the forefront of gene editing treatments for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). Its cutting-edge pipeline is concentrated on creating single-administration medications that offer long-lasting and maybe permanent cardiovascular effects. The PCSK9 gene, which affects cholesterol and cardiovascular risk in general, is the target of the main candidate, VERVE-102, a first-in-class in vivo gene editing therapy.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has designated VERVE-102 as Fast Track and it is presently undergoing evaluation in a Phase 1b clinical investigation. The treatment is designed for patients with early coronary artery disease and heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (HeFH), a hereditary disorder that affects approximately 1 in 250 persons.
Changing the Paradigms of Cardiovascular Treatment
With Verve’s platform, chronic maintenance may be replaced by a one-time therapeutic intervention, marking a paradigm change in cardiovascular treatment. Lilly’s strategic aim in addressing important unmet needs in cardiometabolic health is in line with the partnership. With two clinical-stage prospects created in just seven years, VERV will continue to advance its gene editing research under Lilly’s direction.
Valuation and Deal Structure
The agreement states that Lilly would launch a tender offer to buy all of Verve’s outstanding shares for $10.50 per share in cash, or around $1.0 billion. A contingent value right (CVR) of up to $3.00 per share will also be granted to shareholders, increasing the total possible consideration to $13.50 per share, or up to $1.3 billion overall.
As of June 16, 2025, the offer is 113% more than Verve’s 30-day volume-weighted average stock price. Lilly will purchase any shares that remain unsold through a second-step merger once the tender offer is concluded. The board of directors of Verve has unanimously advised shareholders to accept the offer.
