AstraZeneca's Stock Surge & Pfizer's Bold Obesity Market Move

AstraZeneca reaches a record high in the UK stock market, buoyed by strong earnings and a U.S. drug-pricing deal. Meanwhile, Pfizer plans a robust return to the obesity treatment market, acquiring Metsera for $10 billion, aiming to compete against Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk.

In a remarkable climb, AstraZeneca's shares hit a new high, solidifying its status as the largest stock on the UK market by value. This surge comes on the heels of impressive quarterly results and a recent U.S. drug-pricing agreement, which alleviated some policy-related concerns.

On a competitive front, Pfizer has made a significant move by acquiring the biotechnology company Metsera for $10 billion. This acquisition highlights Pfizer's ambition to re-enter the lucrative obesity treatment market, currently led by Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk.

These developments underscore a dynamic and evolving pharmaceutical industry landscape, as companies vie for leadership and confront challenges head-on while seizing emerging market opportunities.

(With inputs from agencies.)