The Motley Foolยท2025-03-24 16:44Core Viewpoint - A price war in the GLP-1 weight loss drug market is intensifying globally, with Novo Nordisk's stock declining due to its price cuts and licensing of a new drug from China, while competitors like Eli Lilly and Hims & Hers Health are experiencing stock gains [1][2][9]. Group 1: Novo Nordisk's Price Strategy - Novo Nordisk is expanding its Wegovy GLP-1 weight loss drug program to sell at a discounted price of $499 per month, down from $650, representing a 23% price reduction [3][4]. - Investors are concerned that Novo Nordisk may be losing market share and may need to further reduce prices to compete with Eli Lilly, which has priced its Zepbound GLP-1 drug at $349 for direct purchases [4][5]. Group 2: Competitors' Market Position - Eli Lilly's stock rose by 2.7% as it continues to underprice its rival, benefiting from Novo Nordisk's price cuts [2][5]. - Hims & Hers Health's stock increased by 7% due to reports that it will continue to offer compounded versions of GLP-1 drugs, allowing it to remain competitive in the market despite potential supply issues [2][6]. Group 3: Novo Nordisk's Expansion in China - Novo Nordisk has secured an exclusive license to develop and market UBT251, a new weight loss drug from China's The United Bio-Technology, with an initial payment of $200 million and potential future payments of $1.8 billion [8]. - UBT251 is described as a triple agonist targeting GLP-1, GIP, and glucagon receptors, which may enhance treatment efficacy compared to existing drugs [8].