Eli Lilly to acquire AtaiBeckley in up to $3.8 billion deal, entering psychedelics market

Eli Lilly announced it will buy AtaiBeckley, offering $6.75 per share for the company’s common stock. The transaction includes an upfront commitment of about $2.8 billion and a contingent value right that could add up to $1 billion if certain milestones are met, bringing the total potential value to roughly $3.8 billion.

Both companies’ boards have approved the acquisition and the parties expect the deal to close in the third quarter. Following the announcement, AtaiBeckley shares rose nearly 35% in pre‑market trading.

Analysts at Jefferies said the move places Lilly at the forefront of the emerging psychedelics field, which they believe could represent a major shift in psychiatric treatment and is already seeing strong patient interest.