Novo Nordisk Falls to 82nd in Trading Activity as Stock Gains 1.29% Despite Cut Forecasts and CEO Transition

On August 4, 2025, Novo Nordisk (NVO) saw a trading volume of $1.01 billion, a 39.58% drop from the previous day, ranking it 82nd in market activity. The stock rose 1.29% amid anticipation of its Q2 earnings report on August 6. Analysts expect revenue of $11.79 billion and EPS of $0.93 for the quarter. However, the company has cut its 2025 sales growth forecast to 8-14% from 13-21%, citing weaker demand for Wegovy and Ozempic in the U.S. due to illegal compounded GLP-1 alternatives and slower adoption. Operating profit guidance was also reduced, reflecting lower sales expectations and a drag from recent manufacturing site acquisitions.

The stock has underperformed the industry and S&P 500 this year, falling 44% year-to-date. Its valuation remains depressed, trading at a forward P/E of 11.87, below its five-year average of 29.25. Key challenges include regulatory hurdles, such as Medicare’s refusal to cover weight-loss drugs, and competitive pressures from Eli Lilly’s tirzepatide-based therapies, which have shown stronger clinical results and faster market penetration. Novo’s recent leadership transition, with CEO Lars Fruergaard Jørgensen stepping down, has further shaken investor confidence.

Positive catalysts include the company’s pipeline advancements, including expanded indications for Wegovy and Ozempic, and progress in rare disease therapies like Alhemo for hemophilia. New CEO Maziar Mike Doustdar has emphasized operational improvements and supply chain investments to address bottlenecks. Novo also plans to present new data at the American Diabetes Association congress, which could reignite interest in its obesity drugs. However, ongoing legal battles against compounded GLP-1 providers and pricing pressures in key markets remain near-term headwinds.

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