How did NVO's Q4 earnings surprise impact investor confidence?

**Novo Nordisk's (NVO) Q4 earnings did not provide a clear positive or negative surprise to investor confidence**, as evidenced by the following:

1. **No EPS Surprise**: There was no reported EPS surprise for NVO's Q4 earnings. The company's performance was in line with expectations.
2. **Mixed Earnings Report**: While NVO beat Wall Street revenue expectations for its blockbuster weight-loss drug, Wegovy, the company missed slightly on revenue and reported a mixed earnings report. This mixed result is unlikely to have a significant impact on investor confidence, as the positive aspects (strong demand and sales growth) likely offset the negative aspects (missing revenue expectations).
3. **Sales Growth Highlights**: The company highlighted robust sales growth, with a 24% increase in the first nine months of 2024, and a 22% increase in operating profit for the same period. This positive growth trajectory is likely to bolster investor confidence in the company's performance and future prospects.
4. **Strategic Developments**: Novo Nordisk's strategic developments, such as the significant increase in sales of GLP-1 products in diabetes, particularly in North America, indicate a forward-looking confidence in the company's market position and innovation. This could positively influence investor confidence.
5. **Market Reaction**: The market's reaction to the earnings report was not significantly negative or positive, suggesting that the impact of the Q4 earnings on investor confidence was neutral.

In conclusion, while NVO's Q4 earnings did not provide a clear positive surprise, the company's strong sales growth, strategic developments, and overall performance are likely to maintain or even enhance investor confidence in the long term.