Yahoo Finance·2025-11-04 06:56Core Viewpoint - Pfizer has filed a second lawsuit against Novo Nordisk, alleging that Novo's $9 billion bid for Metsera is intended to delay the entry of Metsera's obesity treatments into the market rather than to finalize a deal [1][7]. Group 1: Legal Actions and Allegations - Pfizer's lawsuit includes claims that Novo Nordisk is using a 30-month "outside date" to postpone Metsera's market entry for obesity drugs targeting the GLP-1 protein [7]. - Metsera has accused Pfizer of manipulating the timeline by not filing a lawsuit sooner, despite being aware of Novo's bid since October 25, and of attempting to lower its acquisition price [4]. - Novo Nordisk has stated that it has complied with all restrictions under the Pfizer merger agreement and dismissed Pfizer's claims as unfounded [5][4]. Group 2: Market Context and Financial Implications - Pfizer agreed to pay up to $7.3 billion for Metsera, which is developing next-generation obesity drugs, following a protracted bidding war with Novo Nordisk [2]. - Analysts predict that the obesity market could reach $150 billion annually, with Metsera's experimental therapies potentially generating $5 billion in sales [6]. - Metsera's new obesity drug offers the advantage of monthly injections compared to the weekly injections required for existing popular drugs like Wegovy and Eli Lilly's Zepbound and Mounjaro [5]. Group 3: Competitive Dynamics - Metsera has rejected Novo's offer six times, citing concerns over Novo's significant market share and potential antitrust issues [2]. - In a surprising turn, Metsera indicated that Novo's latest offer was superior and has given Pfizer a deadline to submit a higher bid [3].