Prices, pipelines and patent cliffs: Inside pharma's big reset

Core Insights - The earnings season for Europe's largest pharmaceutical companies showed mixed results, but the focus is shifting towards future developments, particularly in 2026, which is expected to be a pivotal year following significant changes in 2025 [1][2] Industry Trends - Companies are facing a "patent cliff," where major drugs will lose exclusivity, leading to increased competition from generics [3] - There is a heightened emphasis on drug pipelines as companies aim to reassure investors about future growth despite impending patent expirations [4] Company Strategies - Novartis anticipates a loss of $4 billion in sales and profits in the first half of the year due to patent expirations but remains optimistic about growth driven by a strong pipeline [5] - AstraZeneca is confident in its pipeline, projecting 25 new blockbuster medicines by 2030 and aiming for $80 billion in revenue, up from $59 billion in 2025 [8] - Companies are increasingly looking towards mergers and acquisitions (M&A) to replenish their pipelines, with a focus on both smaller and larger deals [9][11] Market Dynamics - China is emerging as a significant source of innovation for pharmaceutical companies, with increased collaboration and deal-making with Chinese firms [13][15] - The market is evolving in terms of pricing strategies, particularly in response to U.S. and European pricing pressures, with companies considering various approaches to manage drug launches [16][17] Obesity Drug Market - The obesity drug market is becoming more consumer-oriented, with companies like Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly facing increasing competition as new players enter the space [20] - AstraZeneca and Roche are developing new treatments to differentiate themselves in the crowded obesity market, focusing on convenience and improved tolerability profiles [21][23][24]