Novo Nordisk Stock (NVO): Cuts Forecast

By Patricia Miller

Nov 07, 2025

3 min read

Novo Nordisk shows strong growth in obesity care but faces rising risks and competitive pressures as it heads into 2026.

#Novo Nordisk Latest

Novo Nordisk A/S (NYSE:NVO) is a global healthcare company focused on diabetes and obesity care. The company recently reported a 12% sales growth in Danish kroner (DKK) and 15% at constant exchange rates (CER) for the first nine months of 2025, with particularly strong performance in obesity care, which grew by 37%.

Operating profit increased by 5% in DKK (10% at CER), but underlying profit growth was higher when excluding a restructuring charge. Despite this, the company trimmed its full-year guidance to 8–11% sales growth and 4–7% operating profit growth at CER, signaling slowing momentum for the remainder of the year.

Investor concern has grown amid signs of weaker growth in GLP-1 diabetes treatments—which rose only 7% in DKK—and rising pricing pressure, particularly in the U.S., where negotiations and regulatory scrutiny are intensifying. While obesity medications remain a key growth driver, Novo Nordisk is facing increasing competitive pressure as it approaches 2026.

#What Investors Need to Know About Novo Nordisk

  • Sales grew 12% in Danish kroner and 15% at constant exchange rates (CER) in the first nine months of 2025.

  • Obesity care revenue increased by 37% in DKK.

  • Operating profit rose 5% in DKK (10% at CER), but underlying profit growth was stronger when adjusted for a restructuring charge.

  • Novo Nordisk cut its full-year 2025 guidance to 8–11% sales growth and 4–7% operating profit growth at CER.

  • GLP-1 diabetes treatments grew 7% in DKK, showing signs of slowing demand.

  • Investors are increasingly concerned about U.S. drug pricing reforms and competitive pressure.

#Novo Nordisk At A Glance

Novo Nordisk is a global leader in diabetes and obesity treatment, with a robust portfolio of innovative therapies. The company operates in over 80 countries and aims to improve patients’ lives through advanced medication and care solutions. It plays a significant role in the healthcare sector, particularly in high-demand areas like metabolic disease.

#Competitive Landscape

Novo Nordisk’s primary competitor is Eli Lilly And Co (NYSE:LLY), especially in the GLP-1 and obesity drug market, where both companies are aggressively expanding.

Other pharmaceutical firms, such as Sanofi SA (NASDAQ:SNY) and Merck & Co., Inc (NYSE:MRK), are active in the diabetes space more broadly but currently pose less direct competition in GLP-1 therapies. As the market grows, more entrants are expected to intensify the landscape.

#Near-Term Catalysts and Risks

Heading into 2026, Novo Nordisk faces increased headwinds from U.S. drug pricing reforms, including provisions under the Inflation Reduction Act that may impact profit margins. While demand for obesity drugs remains high, any slowdown in GLP-1 medication adoption—already showing signs of moderation—could affect future growth.

The company’s trimmed guidance reflects internal expectations of weaker sales momentum, particularly in diabetes care. Investors should watch how pricing negotiations evolve and how quickly competitors scale their offerings.

#Trading Novo Nordisk Stock

When evaluating Novo Nordisk’s stock, consider the long-term growth potential in obesity care, supported by strong demand and global health trends. However, near-term volatility may persist due to regulatory and competitive pressures.

Risk-averse investors should monitor quarterly earnings closely to assess whether Novo Nordisk can sustain profit margins and defend its market position in the face of mounting competition.

#FAQ

Why should I invest in a healthcare stock?

Investing in healthcare stocks often offers exposure to a growing sector driven by rising demand for treatments and innovations. With an aging population and ongoing healthcare advancements, these companies can provide stability and potentially strong returns.

What are the risks associated with investing in Novo Nordisk?

Key risks include regulatory changes, competitive pressures from other pharmaceutical companies, and the impact of pricing negotiations in key markets, particularly the U.S.

How has Novo Nordisk performed historically?

Historically, Novo Nordisk has shown robust growth, particularly in its diabetes and obesity divisions, adapting well to market changes and innovations.

What impact do drug price negotiations have on profits?

Drug price negotiations can compress profit margins by reducing the prices companies can charge for their products, which directly affects the bottom line.

What’s the outlook for obesity drug treatments?

The outlook remains strong for obesity treatments, driven by increasing awareness and demand for weight management solutions. However, competition and pricing strategies will play significant roles in future growth.

Important Notice And Disclaimer

This article does not provide any financial advice and is not a recommendation to deal in any securities or product. Investments may fall in value and an investor may lose some or all of their investment. Past performance is not an indicator of future performance.