European Central Bank Accelerates CBDC Launch for 2029 Despite Legal Hurdles

Digital Euro races toward 2029 deadline as ECB pushes forward with central bank digital currency plans.

Legal Framework Gap Widens

The European Central Bank barrels ahead with CBDC development while regulatory foundations remain shaky. Banking officials insist the timeline is achievable, but legal experts warn of potential implementation delays.

Institutional Momentum Builds

Despite unresolved legal questions, technical development continues at full pace. The ECB appears determined to join the global CBDC race, betting that legal frameworks will catch up with technological progress.

Because nothing says 'financial innovation' like government-controlled digital money that still can't figure out the paperwork. The digital euro marches on—whether Europe's legal system is ready or not.

TLDR

• LLY stock decline after a strong Q3 2025 report.
• Reported Q3 revenue of $17.6B, beating estimates of $16.05B.
• Raised FY2025 revenue outlook to $63–$63.5B and EPS to $21.80–$22.50.
• Announced a partnership with Walmart to expand Zepbound access.
• Maintains strong balance sheet with high margins and 90.75% ROE.

Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE: LLY) closed at $813.53 on October 29, 2025, before rising 5% to $853.97 in pre-market trading after posting stronger-than-expected third-quarter results.

Eli Lilly and Company, LLY

The pharmaceutical giant exceeded revenue forecasts and raised its full-year guidance, signaling continued growth across its product portfolio.

Robust Q3 Results and Upgraded Guidance

Eli Lilly reported Q3 revenue of $17.6 billion, surpassing the FactSet estimate of $16.05 billion. The company lifted its full-year 2025 revenue projection to between $63 billion and $63.5 billion, reflecting solid demand for key drugs like Mounjaro, Zepbound, and Verzenio.

Eli Lilly, $LLY, Q3-25. Results:

📊 Adj. EPS: $7.02 🟢
💰 Revenue: $17.60B 🟢
📈 Net Income: $5.58B
🔎 Mounjaro and Zepbound drove massive volume growth; orforglipron progressed through four Phase 3 trials with obesity submissions planned by year-end. pic.twitter.com/uDxkq8zBEr

— EarningsTime (@Earnings_Time) October 30, 2025

Operating margin is now projected at 43.5% to 44.5% on a reported basis and up to 46.0% on a non-GAAP basis. The company raised its reported EPS guidance to a range of $21.80 to $22.50, and its non-GAAP EPS to $23.00 to $23.70, citing strong operational execution and favorable foreign exchange trends.

Strong Financial Health and Profitability Metrics

Eli Lilly remains one of the most profitable firms in the pharmaceutical sector. The company boasts a 3-year revenue CAGR of 17.1%, an operating margin of 42.97%, and a net margin of 25.91%. Its return on equity stands at a remarkable 90.75%.

Despite taking on $22.4 billion in new debt over three years, the company’s current ratio of 1.28 and Altman Z-Score of 6.78 indicate strong liquidity and financial stability. While insider selling activity was noted, overall fundamentals remain robust.

Market Valuation and Investor Sentiment

Eli Lilly trades at a P/E ratio of 53.17 and a P/S ratio of 13.78, signaling a premium valuation backed by high investor confidence. The consensus target price sits at $908.64, supported by 87.4% institutional ownership. The RSI at 53.58 suggests balanced trading momentum.

Strategic Partnership Expands Access to Zepbound

In a MOVE to enhance accessibility, Eli Lilly announced a collaboration with Walmart Pharmacy to offer direct-to-consumer pricing for its obesity drug, Zepbound, through LillyDirect. Starting mid-November, patients will be able to pick up Zepbound vials at Walmart locations nationwide or opt for free home delivery.

We just made it easier to get authentic obesity management medicines at DTC prices.

We’re teaming up with @Walmart so patients can access LillyDirect prices, with pickup at a Walmart pharmacy!

Learn more: https://t.co/IG1QFZREzt pic.twitter.com/1FLHyp9vKN

— Eli Lilly and Company (@EliLillyandCo) October 29, 2025

This partnership aims to make treatment more convenient and affordable, supporting Eli Lilly’s long-term growth in the cardiometabolic and obesity segments.

Performance Snapshot

As of October 29, 2025, LLY shares have delivered a 6.01% YTD return and a 549.12% five-year gain, significantly outperforming the broader market. Despite short-term volatility, Eli Lilly’s earnings momentum and innovation-driven strategy continue to position it as a leader in the healthcare sector.