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Novo Nordisk Faces 2026 Headwinds Abroad
14 Jan
Summary
- Novo Nordisk anticipates significant international challenges in 2026.
- CEO cites increasing competition as key factor for market share loss.
- Company plans capacity expansion and new products to counter rivals.
Novo Nordisk anticipates a challenging year for its international operations in 2026. CEO Mike Doustdar indicated that increased competition is expected to erode market share in regions where the company has historically held a strong position. This comes as market exclusivity for certain products expires, creating opportunities for rivals.
Doustdar acknowledged that while the United States market is stable, international markets represent the primary long-term volume opportunity for Novo Nordisk's lucrative diabetes and weight-loss franchise. The company is adapting to a dynamic obesity market, where cross-border and online sales are becoming more prominent, and is closely monitoring competition from entities like Eli Lilly.
To mitigate these pressures, Novo Nordisk plans to leverage capacity expansion, introduce higher-dose formulations, and launch new products. Regarding concerns about fasting requirements for its oral weight-loss pill, Wegovy, the CEO stated that the company has not observed this as a significant barrier, citing the success of its oral diabetes medication, Rybelsus.
