Image Source: Unsplash
 

Eli Lilly & Co. (LLY) needs little introduction, as it’s probably the most popular drug stock in the world right now thanks to Mounjaro (diabetes) and Zepbound (weight loss), which are the same drug selling well under both indications. But we still think the stock can surprise on the upside going forward

In Q3 2025, Mounjaro’s sales lifted 109% and Zepbound’s boomed 185%. Combined, they made up 57% of total revenue, which itself grew 54% from the year before.

Of course, the success of these drugs has been well known for a while, and in the market, that means a lot has been discounted. When combined with some regulatory fears (the Trump Administration has made it a point to get drug prices down, which Lilly has agreed to), it’s a big reason why the stock actually lost ground from July 2024 through October 2025.

But now the stock is back in gear, surging to new all-time highs for a few reasons. The first is that the weight-loss franchise should continue to take share and post huge growth. International sales are just beginning and an oral version of Zepbound (which has shown great results) should be available sometime in late 2026. That will help it continue to capture share.

Second, the fears of regulatory burdens have been lessened. In fact, a recent deal with the administration to lower prices includes Medicare and Medicaid coverage, hugely expanding the market.

There’s even an AI angle here, with Lilly partnering with Nvidia Corp. (NVDA) to deploy the largest “AI factory” to be used on large-scale biomedical models. It also has deals with Google and OpenAI, and even has an AI lab smaller firms can use (for a fee of course).

All told, analysts see growth slowing some from the current breakneck pace. But earnings should still rise 35% in 2026 (likely conservative), with much more beyond that.

After a long rest period, LLY has shown persistent strength in recent weeks, making it look to us like a liquid leader. That means it should be a magnet for growth-oriented institutional money.

Recommended Action: Buy LLY.

More By This Author: