Pfizer(US:PFE) Jing Ji Guan Cha Bao·2025-09-23 08:53Core Viewpoint - Pfizer's acquisition of Metsera for $73 billion at a 42.5% premium reflects its commitment to the weight loss drug sector, aiming to regain competitiveness after previous setbacks in this area [1][3][11] Company Summary - Pfizer announced the acquisition of Metsera at a cash price of $47.50 per share, totaling $73 billion, with the deal expected to close in Q4 2025 [1] - Following the announcement, Metsera's stock surged over 60%, reaching a market capitalization of approximately $56 billion [2] - Pfizer has faced challenges in the weight loss drug market, having previously developed GLP-1 drugs Lotiglipron and Danuglipron, both of which encountered liver damage issues leading to halted development [3][5] - Pfizer's CEO, Albert Bourla, emphasized the strategic importance of this acquisition in addressing obesity, which affects millions globally and is linked to over 200 health issues [3] Industry Summary - The global weight loss drug market is projected to reach $150 billion by the early 2030s, indicating significant growth potential [3] - Metsera, founded in 2022, is developing GLP-1-based obesity treatments, including long-acting injectables and oral peptides [4][5] - The acquisition highlights the increasing interest from major pharmaceutical companies in obesity and metabolic disease platforms, with competitors like Roche and Merck also making significant investments in this area [6][7][8] - The competitive landscape is expected to intensify as Pfizer re-enters the weight loss market, potentially shifting the dominance from Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk to include Pfizer [11]