Novo Nordisk locks horns with Pfizer in late bid for Metsera

Core Viewpoint - The acquisition of Metsera by Pfizer is at risk due to a competing bid from Novo Nordisk, which has offered a higher cash price per share and additional milestone payments [1][2][3]. Group 1: Acquisition Details - Novo Nordisk has proposed $56.50 per share for Metsera, valuing the company at $6 billion, surpassing Pfizer's earlier offer of $47.50 per share, which equated to $4.9 billion [1]. - Novo's bid includes a potential additional $2.5 billion contingent on meeting certain milestones, while Pfizer's additional offer is capped at $2.4 billion [1]. Group 2: Strategic Implications - Novo Nordisk's acquisition strategy aligns with its long-term goal of developing innovative treatments for obesity and diabetes, aiming to reach more patients [2]. - The competition for Metsera highlights the industry's confidence in its pipeline, particularly its injectable and oral peptide therapies for weight loss, which promise less frequent dosing compared to existing treatments [6]. Group 3: Legal and Competitive Landscape - Pfizer has expressed strong opposition to Novo's bid, labeling it as reckless and an attempt to suppress competition, and has indicated readiness to pursue legal action to uphold its agreement with Metsera [3][4]. - Metsera is currently evaluating Novo's proposal, which it considers a "superior company proposal," and may terminate its agreement with Pfizer if the bid is deemed more favorable [5].