Can Novo Nordisk's Restructuring Program Drive its Return to Growth?

Core Insights - Novo Nordisk has announced a major restructuring plan to restore momentum in its core businesses, focusing on diabetes and obesity therapies under the new CEO Mike Doustdar [1] - The restructuring will involve a reduction of approximately 9,000 jobs globally, including 5,000 in Denmark, which is about 11% of its total workforce [2] - The company anticipates annualized savings of around DKK 8 billion by 2026, which will be reinvested into R&D and manufacturing to meet the growing demand for GLP-1 therapies [2] Financial Impact - The restructuring will incur one-time charges of about DKK 8 billion, with DKK 9 billion expected to be recorded in Q3 2025, partially offset by DKK 1 billion in savings in Q4 [4] - As a result of these changes, Novo Nordisk has lowered its 2025 operating profit growth guidance to 4-10% at constant exchange rates, down from the previous range of 10-16% [4] Competitive Landscape - The restructuring comes after Novo Nordisk cut its 2025 sales and profit outlook due to slower-than-expected uptake of its semaglutide-based drugs, Wegovy and Ozempic, amid rising competition from Eli Lilly's therapies [3] - The emergence of compounded semaglutide in the U.S. market has further diluted Novo Nordisk's growth prospects in the obesity sector [3] Long-term Strategy - Despite the short-term financial impact, the restructuring is viewed as a necessary investment to enhance long-term growth and maintain leadership in the diabetes and obesity markets [5]