James Quigley's questions to NOVO NORDISK A S (NVO) leadership • Q2 2025
Question
James Quigley of Goldman Sachs asked for Novo Nordisk's competitive view on orfagliptin's Phase III data relative to Wegovy and oral semaglutide, and how this might impact market segmentation. He also later inquired about the risk of 'healthcare tourism' with generic semaglutide from Canada potentially entering the U.S. market.
Answer
Martin Lange, EVP & Chief Scientific Officer, highlighted oral semaglutide's superior weight loss (17% vs. 12%) and better tolerability compared to orfagliptin. David Moore, EVP of US Operations, and Ludovic Helfgott, EVP of Product & Portfolio Strategy, expressed excitement for unlocking new patient segments with an oral option. Regarding Canadian generics, Mr. Moore stated there is no legal mechanism for unapproved products to enter the U.S., and Karsten Knudsen, EVP & CFO, confirmed that while erosion in Canada is expected, legal teams are prepared to defend the U.S. business from parallel trade.