Health Stocks Sway as Weight-Loss Drugs Hit and Miss

Viking Therapeutics' weight-loss pill trial results underwhelmed, causing a sharp decline in shares. Meanwhile, Novo Nordisk's liver disease approval for Wegovy uplifted its stock. European corporate health forecasts decline slightly, while the weight-loss drug market sees continued growth amid new treatments and strategic shifts in biotech firms.

Recent developments in the health sector have caused significant movement in stock markets. Viking Therapeutics faced a setback as its weight-loss pill missed Wall Street expectations, resulting in a stark 41% drop in shares. The drug showed a 12.2% weight reduction in trials, falling short of the 15% target.

Conversely, Novo Nordisk experienced a 5% rise in share value following the U.S. approval of its weight-loss drug, Wegovy, for treating a serious liver condition. This comes as a relief to the company, recovering from recent market value losses.

The weight-loss industry continues to evolve as new treatments emerge, with significant sales growth projected. Meanwhile, CSL plans to spin off its influenza vaccine unit, highlighting strategic shifts in the biotech sector amid pricing discussions for new obesity treatment pills from leaders like Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk.

(With inputs from agencies.)