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Behind the Money

Ozempic’s unconventional origins

Jan 10, 2024
Explore Novo Nordisk's labs and the development of ozempic and wegovy, the challenges and success of Novo Nordisk, and the company's unique ownership structure. Also, discuss the future prospects and challenges faced by Novo Nordisk, and the benefits and risks of taking a long-term approach in the pharmaceutical industry.
20:43

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Novo Nordisk's unique ownership structure, with a significant percentage of shares owned by the Novo Nordisk Foundation, has provided stability and allowed the company to focus on long-term research and innovation.
  • Scaling up supply and securing support from insurers and payers are key challenges for Novo Nordisk as they strive to meet the growing demand for their successful drugs, Ozempic and Wegovy.

Deep dives

The Unique Ownership Model of Novo Nordisk

Novo Nordisk, the renowned pharmaceutical company, has a distinct ownership structure that sets it apart from other pharma firms. With 28% of its shares owned by the Novo Nordisk Foundation, which has 77% of the company's voting rights, Novo Nordisk can take a longer-term view when it comes to planning and decision-making. The foundation's ownership provides stability and protection from market volatility, allowing the company to focus on long-term research and innovation. This ownership structure has played a role in Novo Nordisk's recent success, as they achieved significant breakthroughs with drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy, which have shown more effective weight loss results than previous obesity treatments.

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