<div id="readability-page-1">06:44 AM EST, 12/22/2025 (MT Newswires) -- Eli Lilly ( LLY ) has entered early discussions with French authorities to explore a possible acquisition of biotech firm Abivax ( ABVX ) , La Lettre reported Monday, according to Google-translated text of the report.The US drugmaker held preliminary talks with France's Treasury in early December to assess whether a takeover of Abivax ( ABVX ) would fall under the country's foreign investment screening rules, the report said.Lilly also discussed the possible involvement of state-backed investor Bpifrance as a minority shareholder, according to the report.Lilly didn't immediately respond to MT Newswires' request for comment.Abivax ( ABVX ) shares were up 14% in recent premarket activity Monday, while Lilly rose 0.1%.(Market Chatter news is derived from conversations with market professionals globally. This information is believed to be from reliable sources but may include rumor and speculation. Accuracy is not guaranteed.) MT Newswires does not provide investment advice. Unauthorized reproduction is strictly prohibited.</div>

ABVX

Eli Lilly is in early discussions with French authorities about potentially acquiring biotech firm Abivax. Preliminary talks were held with France's Treasury to assess the takeover under foreign investment rules. The involvement of state-backed investor Bpifrance as a minority shareholder was also discussed. Abivax shares rose 14% premarket, while Lilly shares increased by 0.1%.

Market Chatter: Eli Lilly Meets With French Officials Over Possible Acquisition of Abivax; Shares Up Pre-Bell