Merck's $10 Billion Acquisition of Verona Pharma Approved by UK Court.

Merck's acquisition of Verona Pharma has been approved by the High Court of Justice of England and Wales. The acquisition, worth approximately $10 billion, will see Merck acquire Verona Pharma for $107 per American Depository Share. The acquisition is a significant move for Merck, expanding its portfolio and capabilities in the pharmaceutical industry.

Merck & Co. (NYSE:MRK) has been granted approval by the High Court of Justice of England and Wales for its acquisition of Verona Pharma (NASDAQ:VRNA), valued at approximately $10 billion. Under the terms of the deal, Merck's trade name, MSD, will acquire Verona Pharma for $107 per American Depository Share, with each share representing eight Verona ordinary shares. The acquisition is set to close on October 7, 2025, with Verona shares ceasing to trade as of Monday's market close.

This acquisition marks a significant strategic move for Merck, expanding its portfolio and capabilities in the pharmaceutical industry. The deal will see Merck integrate Verona Pharma's products and expertise, potentially enhancing its offerings and competitive position in the market.

In related news, Merck's stock saw a notable rise on Wednesday, October 3, 2023, with a 6.7% increase, its best performance since 2021. This rally was attributed to a broader pharmaceutical sector rally following recent drug pricing agreements Key facts: Merck & Co. (MRK) saw its stock rise 6.7% on Wednesday, its best performance since 2021, amid a pharmaceutical sector rally following drug pricing agreements.^[2]. Additionally, Merck is scheduled to hold its third-quarter 2025 sales and earnings conference call on October 30, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. ET, where executives will discuss the quarterly performance.

The acquisition is part of Merck's broader investment strategy, with the company planning to invest $895 million to expand its animal health site in Kansas, as part of a $9 billion U.S. investment by 2028 Key facts: Merck & Co. (MRK) saw its stock rise 6.7% on Wednesday, its best performance since 2021, amid a pharmaceutical sector rally following drug pricing agreements.^[2]. This investment highlights Merck's commitment to growth and innovation in the pharmaceutical sector.