Novo Nordisk (NVO) shares rallied more than 6% today after the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Wegovy for treating metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH).
Investors are cheering NVO shares also because the pharma giant said cash-paying U.S. customers can now access its blockbuster diabetes drug, Ozempic, at a massive discount ($499 per month).
Novo Nordisk stock has struggled this year amid intense competition in the weight-loss space with Eli Lilly (LLY). At writing, it’s down more than 40% versus its year-to-date high.
What the 2 Announcements Mean for Novo Nordisk Stock
FDA’s approval for Wegovy as a treatment of MASH is meaningfully positive for NVO stock since it deepens the company’s clinical footprint beyond obesity, unlocking a new revenue stream in liver disease.
Meanwhile, offering Ozempic directly to customers via several online channels for $499 per month to cash-paying U.S. clients broadens access to its most lucrative drug, potentially boosting prescription volume and market share.
Together, these moves reinforce Novo Nordisk’s dominance in the GLP-1 market while addressing affordability concerns, strengthening commercial outlook and investor confidence in its pipeline and pricing strategy.
In short, these two catalysts could drive long-term growth, potentially unlocking significant upside in Novo Nordisk shares over time.
Should You Buy NVO Shares on the Year-to-Date Weakness?
According to TD Cowen analysts, the year-to-date decline in Novo Nordisk stock is an opportunity for long-term investors, and the firm’s GLP-1 announcements today feed right into their positive view.
The investment firm remains constructive as the NovoCare program is driving robust demand for Wegovy, and the management is committed to advancing CagriSema and cagrilintide monotherapy, addressing prior trial limitations.
Moreover, the Danish firm’s Alzheimer-focused EVOKE trial reflects strategic expansion into high impact therapeutic areas, reinforcing its innovation pipeline and long-term growth potential.
TD Cowen didn’t, however, share a price target for NVO stock that currently pays a healthy 2.2% in dividend yield.
Wall Street Remains Largely Bullish on Novo Nordisk
Investors should consider loading up on NVO stock at current levels also because other Wall Street firms remain largely bullish on the pharmaceutical behemoth as well.
The consensus rating on Novo Nordisk shares currently sits at “Moderate Buy” with the mean target of roughly $71 indicating potential upside of another 30% from here.
