Description
Eli Lilly’s $1B Immunology Play: Why Ventyx Is Suddenly A Hot Target!
Eli Lilly is making headlines yet again—this time for reportedly entering advanced discussions to acquire Ventyx Biosciences, a clinical-stage biotech firm developing oral therapies for inflammatory diseases. The news, first reported by the Wall Street Journal, sent shares of Ventyx (VTYX) soaring over 80% in after-hours trading on January 6, 2026, suggesting that investors anticipate a transformative deal. With a current market cap of roughly $600 million, the proposed acquisition is expected to exceed $1 billion in value and could be announced imminently. For Eli Lilly, this move comes amid an aggressive expansion strategy that includes global launches of Zepbound (tirzepatide), the anticipated commercial debut of orforglipron (its oral GLP-1), and significant investments in manufacturing and innovation. The company has maintained its dominance in the obesity drug space and continues to diversify its portfolio.
