Core Insights - Novo Nordisk has ousted CEO Lars Fruergaard Jorgensen due to concerns over losing its first-mover advantage in the competitive obesity drug market [1] - The company cut its sales and profit forecast for the first time since the launch of Wegovy four years ago, despite Jorgensen's prediction of a return to growth in the U.S. market [1][5] - Novo's share price has significantly declined, dropping 32% year-to-date and 59% from its all-time high [6] Company Performance - Under Jorgensen's leadership, Novo Nordisk became a leader in the weight-loss drug market, with significant sales growth from Wegovy and Ozempic [8] - However, competition from Eli Lilly has intensified, with Eli Lilly's Zepbound surpassing Wegovy in U.S. prescriptions since mid-March [5][14] - Novo's market value has halved from a peak of $615 billion in June last year to approximately $310 billion [14] Leadership Changes - Novo's chairman Helge Lund reassured analysts that the company's strategy remains intact despite the leadership change [2] - Discussions regarding Jorgensen's replacement had been ongoing for weeks, and he will remain until a successor is found [4] - Former CEO Lars Rebien Sorensen will join the board as an observer, aiming for a seat at the next annual general meeting [15]

Core Viewpoint - Novo Nordisk CEO Lars Fruergaard Jørgensen is stepping down due to recent market challenges, with the company facing increased competition in the obesity drug market and disappointing trial results for next-generation treatments [1][3]. Group 1: Leadership Changes - Lars Fruergaard Jørgensen will remain in his position temporarily to ensure a smooth transition to new leadership, with a search for a replacement currently ongoing [2]. - Following the announcement of the CEO's departure, Novo Nordisk's shares fell by 1.8% [2]. Group 2: Market Challenges - Novo Nordisk's share price has been negatively impacted over the past year due to heightened competition in the obesity drug market [3]. - The company has also faced disappointing trial results for its next-generation treatments, contributing to the challenges it is currently experiencing [3]. Group 3: Company Strategy - Despite the leadership change and market challenges, Novo Nordisk's Chairman Helge Lund stated that the company's strategy remains unchanged, and the Board is confident in its current business plans and execution capabilities [3].