In a strategic move aimed at addressing the soaring demand for its revolutionary weight-loss drug, Wegovy, Novo Holdings, the parent company of Novo Nordisk, has disclosed plans to acquire contract drug maker Catalent for $11.5 billion in cash. This acquisition is poised to fortify Novo Nordisk’s production capabilities in response to the extraordinary demand for innovative weight loss and diabetes medications.
Novo Holdings will acquire Catalent for $11.5 billion in cash. As part of the deal, Novo Nordisk will purchase three Catalent fill-finish sites, bolstering the production of Wegovy and other crucial medications. The acquisition is strategically driven by the exceptional demand for Wegovy and Ozempic over the past year.
Novo anticipates that the deal will have a low single-digit percentage negative impact on operating profit growth in 2024 and 2025. The terms include the acquisition of all outstanding shares of Catalent for $63.50 per share in cash, representing a premium of 16.5% to the company’s last trading price. Novo will also assume Catalent’s debt, bringing the total enterprise value of the deal to $16.5 billion.
The acquisition is expected to gradually increase Novo’s filling capacity, with notable effects expected from 2026 onwards. The three fill-finish sites, located in Italy, Belgium, and Bloomington, Indiana, will play a crucial role in supporting Novo Nordisk’s expanding drug portfolio.
In the growing obesity drug market, Novo Nordisk faces competition from Eli Lilly’s Zepbound. Analysts estimate that the obesity drug market could reach $100 billion by the end of the decade, highlighting the immense potential for companies in this sector.
The acquisition aligns seamlessly with Novo Holdings’ strategy of investing in established life science companies with significant long-term potential. Catalent’s expertise in enabling pharmaceutical, biotech, and consumer health partners is in harmony with Novo Holdings’ commitment to improving health and sustainability.
The merger is anticipated to close by the end of calendar year 2024, subject to customary closing conditions, Catalent stockholder approval, and regulatory approvals. Catalent’s Board unanimously recommends that stockholders vote in favor of the merger, following an evaluation of value-maximizing alternatives.
Kasim Kutay, CEO of Novo Holdings, expressed excitement about the partnership with Catalent and emphasized their commitment to supporting Catalent’s growth and mission to develop products that enhance lives.
Novo Holdings’ acquisition of Catalent represents a strategic move to strengthen production capabilities and meet the escalating demand for transformative medications like Wegovy. As the merger progresses, it not only positions Novo Nordisk for continued success in the competitive pharmaceutical landscape but also aligns with Novo Holdings’ broader mission of investing in high-quality life sciences companies for the betterment of society and the planet. The industry will be closely watching the outcome of this significant acquisition, anticipating positive impacts on Novo Nordisk’s product development and market position.
Mark your calendars! Don’t miss Noble Capital Markets’ Emerging Growth Virtual Healthcare Equity Conference on April 17-18. This exclusive virtual event connects investors with 50 leading public biotech, healthcare services, and medical device companies. Presenting company slots are available…Read More
