FT News Briefing How Ireland became the weak spot in Europe’s defences
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Nov 25, 2025 
Anu Adeoye, acting Global Pharmaceuticals correspondent at the Financial Times, and Jude Weber, the paper's Ireland correspondent, dive into pressing industry and geopolitical topics. They discuss promising clinical trial results amid Bayer's challenges and Novo Nordisk’s disappointing Alzheimer's drug failure. Weber highlights how Ireland's military neutrality has left it vulnerable, particularly concerning transatlantic undersea cables, and outlines the limitations of its defense capabilities. Both guests speculate on the future of Ireland’s defense stance.
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Markets Price In Budget-Induced Pound Weakness
- Traders expect the UK autumn budget to weaken the pound versus the dollar ahead of Chancellor Rachel Reeves's announcement.
- Markets fear higher taxes will further hurt an already struggling UK economy.
Bayer's Stroke Drug Brings Tangible Hope
- Bayer's Asundexian cut the risk of a second stroke when added to standard antiplatelet therapy in late-stage trials.
- The positive result lifted Bayer shares and offers respite amid its sales decline and legacy legal challenges.
Novo's Alzheimer's Bet Comes Up Short
- Novo Nordisk's diabetes drug failed to slow Alzheimer's progression despite biomarker improvements across nearly 4,000 patients.
- The setback disappointed investors and compounds a year of poor performance and pipeline pressure for Novo.