Novo Nordisk Option Alert: Jan 16 $110 Calls at the Bid: 1200 vs 1937 OI

Novo Nordisk Option Alert: Jan 16 $110 Calls at the Bid: 1200 @ $5.05 vs 1937 OI; Ref=$82.955

Novo Nordisk Option Alert: May 16 $80 Calls Sweep (53) near the Ask: 1000 vs 378 OI

Novo Nordisk Option Alert: May 16 $80 Calls Sweep (53) near the Ask: 1000 @ $7.312 vs 378 OI; Ref=$81.87

Novo Nordisk Option Alert: Apr 17 $50 Calls at the Bid: 200 vs 2 OI

Novo Nordisk Option Alert: Apr 17 $50 Calls at the Bid: 200 @ $32.36 vs 2 OI; Ref=$81.77

Novo Nordisk (NYSE:NVO) 株価情報

NOVO-NORDISK A/S-SPONS ADR

Novo Nordisk

With roughly one third of the global branded diabetes treatment market, Novo Nordisk is the leading provider of diabetes-care products in the world. Based in Denmark, the company manufactures and markets a variety of human and modern insulins, injectable diabetes treatments such as GLP-1 therapy, oral antidiabetic agents, and obesity treatments. Novo also has a biopharmaceutical segment (constituting less than 10% of revenue) that specializes in protein therapies for hemophilia and other disorders.

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Markets

LCID

RIVN

TSLA

米国株は反発し、結果はまちまちにダウ平均は0.8％近く下落し、39,112.16ドルでした。一方、S&amp;P 500は0.4％以上上昇し、5,469.30ドルでレギュラーセッションを終えました。ナスダック指数はほぼ1.3％上昇し、17,717.65ドルで取引を終了しました。これらは、小売トレーダーや投資家の関心を集めたトップ銘柄です。

マイクロンが相場を牽引か　本日注目すべき株式

Health Care

Global

「ノーボ・ノルディスク (NYSE:NVO) は、同社の減量薬の需要増加に対応するため、米国での製造拠点の拡大に41億ドルを投資する予定だ。出来事：ノルウェーの製薬会社は、同社が発表したリリースの中で、北カロライナ州のローリー近くに新しい140万平方フィートの製造工場を建設する予定で、これにより同社製造拠点の規模が倍増するという。 この追加生産能力は、2027年から2029年の間に運用される予定だ。

ノーボ・ノルディスク　米製造拠点に41億円を投資

Novo Nordisk AS

Precidian ETFs Trust Novo Nordisk A/S B Shares ADRhedged

Novo Resources Corp Warrants (27/08/2023)

NOVO INTEGRATED SCIENCES by Novo Integrated Sciences, Inc.

Novo Integrated Sciences Inc

Tidal Trust II Defiance Daily Target 2X Long NVO ETF

Shares of Novo Nordisk Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVO#NYSE">NVO</a>) are trading lower Tuesday after a new study raised concerns about a potential link between GLP-1 weight loss drugs like Ozempic and an <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/health-care/25/06/45726872/regeneron-experimental-weight-loss-drug-with-novo-nordisks-wegovy-helps-preserve-lean-mass-in-mid-stage-study">increased risk of kidney cancer.</a>
What To Know: The drop comes after findings from the American Clinical Society of Oncology&#8217;s annual conference suggested that patients using weight loss drugs, including Ozempic, were about 33% more likely to be diagnosed with kidney cancer compared to matched individuals not using the medication, <a href="http://Shares of Novo Nordisk (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVO#NYSE">NVO</a>) are trading lower Tuesday after a new study raised concerns about a potential link between GLP-1 weight loss drugs like Ozempic and an increased risk of kidney cancer. The drop comes after findings from the American Clinical Society of Oncology's annual conference suggested that patients using weight loss drugs, including Ozempic, were about 33% more likely to be diagnosed with kidney cancer compared to matched individuals not using the medication. The data, drawn from a Florida-based database of over 86,000 patients tracked for up to a decade, showed 83 cases of kidney cancer among users of GLP-1 drugs versus 58 in the control group. While the study also indicated that these drugs were associated with lower risks for several other obesity-linked cancers—such as endometrial and ovarian cancer—researchers flagged kidney cancer as a notable outlier. The lead author, Dr. Hao Dai of Indiana University, emphasized that the findings were observational and did not confirm causation, but still called the data &quot;concerning&quot; and said it highlights the need for continued surveillance. The study supports previous research, including a 2023 study of 1.6 million diabetics that reported a 54% increased risk of kidney cancer among GLP-1 drug users compared to those using metformin. Potential mechanisms discussed include recurring acute kidney injuries due to side effects like vomiting and dehydration, as well as speculation about how GLP-1 receptor stimulation in kidney tissue might affect cell behavior. Novo Nordisk's stock fell over 2% in response, as investors weighed the reputational and regulatory risks tied to the high-profile weight-loss drug Ozempic, despite the study's preliminary nature and inconclusive causality.">according to the Daily Mail.
The data, drawn from a Florida-based database of over 86,000 patients tracked for up to a decade, showed 83 cases of kidney cancer among users of GLP-1 drugs versus 58 in the control group.
While the study also indicated that these drugs were associated with lower risks for several other obesity-linked cancers, such as endometrial and ovarian cancer, researchers flagged kidney cancer as a notable outlier. The lead author, Dr. Hao Dai of Indiana University, emphasized that the findings were observational and did not confirm causation but still called the data &#8220;concerning&#8221; and said it highlights the need for continued surveillance.
The study supports previous research, including a 2023 study of 1.6 million diabetics that reported a 54% increased risk of kidney cancer among GLP-1 drug users compared to those using metformin. Potential mechanisms discussed include recurring acute kidney injuries due to side effects like vomiting and dehydration, as well as speculation about how GLP-1 receptor stimulation in kidney tissue might affect cell behavior.
NVO Price Action: Novo Nordisk shares were down 2.53% at $70.99 at the time of writing, according to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard?new_user=False&amp;backend=google-oauth2">Benzinga pro.</a>
Read Next:
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</ul>
Image Via Shutterstock.

Movers

What's Going On With Novo Nordisk Shares Today?

WIIM

Novo Nordisk shares are trading lower following a report suggesting that a study found that Ozempic and other weight loss drugs may raise the risk of kidney cancer.

An official report on June 2, 2025 reveals Representative Scott Franklin's recent purchase of Union Pacific (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UNP#NYSE">UNP</a>) stock, valued between $1,001 and $15,000. The transaction took place on April 21, 2025, as per the June filing.
At this time, Union Pacific shares are trading up 0.68% at $220.38.
<h3>Representative's Recent Trading Activity</h3>
Over the previous three years, Scott Franklin conducted 173 trades, totaling more than $6.02 million. The largest of these were in Baldwin Insurance and BRP Group stock. Some of the most notable transactions the Rep. has executed recently include: 
<ul>
<li>Baldwin Insurance (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BWIN#NASDAQ">BWIN</a>): $500,001 - $1,000,000 Purchase</li>
<li>Novo Nordisk (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVO#NYSE">NVO</a>): $15,001 - $50,000 Purchase</li>
<li>Union Pacific (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UNP#NYSE">UNP</a>): $1,001 - $15,000 Purchase</li>
</ul>
Here's a summary of Scott Franklin's most recent trades:
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Company</th>
<th>Ticker</th>
<th>Stock Type</th>
<th>Amount</th>
<th>Transaction Type</th>
<th>Transaction Date</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Union Pacific</td>
<td>UNP</td>
<td>STOCK</td>
<td>$1,001 - $15,000</td>
<td>P</td>
<td>2025-04-21</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Baldwin Insurance</td>
<td>BWIN</td>
<td>STOCK</td>
<td>$500,001 - $1,000,000</td>
<td>S (Partial)</td>
<td>2025-04-10</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Novo Nordisk</td>
<td>NVO</td>
<td>STOCK</td>
<td>$1,001 - $15,000</td>
<td>P</td>
<td>2025-03-27</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Novo Nordisk</td>
<td>NVO</td>
<td>STOCK</td>
<td>$15,001 - $50,000</td>
<td>P</td>
<td>2025-03-27</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
To stay updated on Scott Franklin's trades and other congressional trades, try our <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/gov-trades/members/scott-franklin">government trades tool</a> for live updates!
<h3>The Importance of Congressional Transactions</h3>
A congressional transaction is when any representative or senator either buys or sells an individual stock.
Anyone working in Congress must file a Periodic Transaction Report to inform the public of their recent transaction within 30 days of being notified of the transaction and within 45 days of the transaction date.
In April 2012, Former President Barack Obama signed the STOCK Act into law. The act prohibits members of Congress from using private information given to them by their position for personal gain such as buying or selling a stock. The act also expanded disclosure requirements for members of Congress by requiring them to file a monthly disclosure.
<h3>Why Congressional Transactions Matter</h3>
Congressional transactions shouldn't be the primary reason for an investing decision, but they can be an important factor for an investor to consider.
When a senator or representative makes a new purchase, it could be an indication they expect the stock to rise.
A sale, on the other hand, can be made for a variety of reasons, and may not necessarily mean the seller thinks the stock will go down.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

Government

Politics

Trading Ideas

General

BWIN

Florida Rep. Scott Franklin Bought Up to $15K Worth of Union Pacific Stock

<a href="https://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-14773791/ozempic-weight-loss-drugs-kidney-cancer-risk-study.html" title="https://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-14773791/ozempic-weight-loss-drugs-kidney-cancer-risk-study.html">https://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-14773791/ozempic-weight-loss-drugs-kidney-cancer-risk-study.html</a>

Biotech

"Exclusive: Ozempic Linked To 'Silent Cancer' That Is Rising In Young People As Doctors Issue Shock Warning" - DailyMail+

Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/REGN#NASDAQ">REGN</a>) on Monday released interim results from the ongoing Phase 2 COURAGE trial.
The company is investigating novel combinations of Novo Nordisk A/S (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVO#NYSE">NVO</a>) Wegovy (semaglutide) (GLP-1 receptor agonist) and trevogrumab (anti-GDF8/anti-myostatin) with or without garetosmab <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/weight-loss" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">(anti-activin A) for obesity</a>.
The trial demonstrated:
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Approximately 35% of semaglutide-induced weight loss was due to loss of lean mass</li>
<li>Combining semaglutide with trevogrumab with or without garetosmab helped preserve lean mass while <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/25/06/g45717752/interim-results-from-ongoing-phase-2-courage-trial-confirm-potential-to-improve-the-quality-of-sem" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">increasing loss of fat mass</a>.</li>
<li>Wegovy patients shed about 23 pounds in the study, about 7.9 pounds of which constituted lean mass.</li>
<li>The trevogrumab and low-dose Wegovy combo led to about 21.6 pounds of weight loss, with 3.7 pounds in lean mass.</li>
<li>At a higher dose, the trevogrumab combo therapy showed a weight loss of 24.8 pounds; 4.2 pounds in lean mass.</li>
<li>A triplet combination of semaglutide plus trevogrumab plus garetosmab showed a weight loss of 30 pounds and 2 pounds in lean mass.</li>
</ul>
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/movers/25/05/45692578/regeneron-sanofi-stock-falls-after-uneven-smokers-lung-drug-data" rel="noreferrer noopener">Regeneron, Sanofi Stock Falls After Uneven Smoker&#8217;s Lung Drug Data</a>
The<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/24/10/41208078/regeneron-chief-flags-health-risks-with-popular-weight-loss-medications-like-ozempic-says-company" rel="noreferrer noopener"> combination of semaglutide</a> with trevogrumab was generally well-tolerated; the triplet combination of semaglutide with both antibodies had a substantially higher rate of discontinuations due to tolerability issues and other adverse events, consistent with the safety profile previously seen with garetosmab alone.
After 26 weeks, patients enter into the weight-maintenance phase, receiving either higher-dose trevogrumab monotherapy or a placebo through the end of the trial (week 52).
Data from this phase are not yet available.
Regeneron also announced a strategic in-licensing agreement with Hansoh Pharmaceuticals Group Company Limited. The company acquired clinical development and commercial rights outside the Chinese Mainland, Hong Kong and Macau for a dual GLP-1/GIP receptor agonist <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/25/06/g45717858/regeneron-expands-clinical-stage-obesity-portfolio-with-strategic-in-licensing-of-novel-dual-glp-1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">currently in Phase 3 testing</a>.
Therapeutic candidate (HS-20094) – studied in over 1,000 patients and administered weekly subcutaneous injections – has demonstrated promising efficacy and safety clinical data, suggesting a potentially similar profile to the only FDA-approved GLP-1/GIP receptor agonist.
A Phase 3 trial in obesity in China and a Phase 2b study in diabetes are ongoing.
Regeneron will pay Hansoh $80 million upfront. The deal may include additional payments of up to $1.93 billion if certain milestones are achieved.
Potential royalties for global net sales outside designated territories would be in the low double digits.
The company says the complementary asset enables synergy and flexibility across Regeneron&#8217;s broad pipeline of obesity and metabolic programs focused on improved quality of weight loss, co-morbidities, and long-term health.
Price Action: REGN stock is down 0.24% at $489.10 at the last check on Monday
Read Next:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/hedge-funds/25/06/45725058/loeb-rides-nvidias-ai-wave-bets-big-on-atts-telecom-comeback" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Loeb Rides Nvidia&#8217;s AI Wave, Bets Big On AT&amp;T&#8217;s Telecom Comeback</a></li>
</ul>
Image: Shutterstock

Large Cap

REGN

Regeneron's Obesity Trial With Novo Nordisk's Wegovy Hits Lean Target

This whale alert can help traders discover the next big trading opportunities.
Whales are entities with large sums of money and we track their transactions here at Benzinga on our options activity scanner.
Traders will search for circumstances when the market estimation of an option diverges heavily from its normal worth. High amounts of trading activity could push option prices to exaggerated or underestimated levels. 
Below are some instances of options activity happening in the Health Care sector: 
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th align="right">Open Interest</th>
<th>Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>HIMS</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>06/06/25</td>
<td>$62.00</td>
<td>$84.0K</td>
<td align="right">508</td>
<td>2.3K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>NVO</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>05/30/25</td>
<td>$68.00</td>
<td>$30.2K</td>
<td align="right">877</td>
<td>879</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>ELV</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>09/19/25</td>
<td>$400.00</td>
<td>$36.9K</td>
<td align="right">93</td>
<td>13</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h2>Explanation</h2>
These bullet-by-bullet explanations have been constructed using the accompanying table. 
• For HIMS (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HIMS#NYSE">HIMS</a>), we notice a call option sweep that happens to be bearish, expiring in 7 day(s) on June 6, 2025. This event was a transfer of 1312 contract(s) at a $62.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 48 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $84.0K, with a price of $64.0 per contract. There were 508 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 2321 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For NVO (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVO#NYSE">NVO</a>), we notice a call option sweep that happens to be bullish, is expiring today. Parties traded 110 contract(s) at a $68.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 29 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $30.2K, with a price of $275.0 per contract. There were 877 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 879 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For ELV (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ELV#NYSE">ELV</a>), we notice a put option sweep that happens to be neutral, expiring in 112 day(s) on September 19, 2025. This event was a transfer of 11 contract(s) at a $400.00 strike. This particular put needed to be split into 3 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $36.9K, with a price of $3370.0 per contract. There were 93 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 13 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
Options Alert Terminology 
 - Call Contracts: The right to buy shares as indicated in the contract. 
 - Put Contracts: The right to sell shares as indicated in the contract. 
 - Expiration Date: When the contract expires. One must act on the contract by this date if one wants to use it. 
 - Premium/Option Price: The price of the contract. 
For more information, visit our <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/blog/how-to-understand-option-alerts/">Guide to Understanding Options Alerts</a> or read <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/options">more about unusual options activity</a>. 
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

Options

streetTRACKS Dow Jones U.S. Large Cap Value Index Fund

Hims & Hers Health, Inc. Class A Common Stock

HIMS

3 Health Care Stocks With Whale Alerts In Today's Session

Penny stock Veru Inc.&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VERU#NASDAQ">VERU</a>) on Wednesday released topline safety results from the Phase 2b QUALITY study of enobosarm 3mg, enobosarm 6mg, or placebo to enhance fat loss and prevent muscle loss in patients over 60 years receiving Novo Nordisk A/S&#8217; (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVO#NYSE">NVO</a>) Wegovy (semaglutide) for <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/weight-loss" rel="noreferrer noopener">chronic weight management</a>.
The enobosarm and semaglutide GLP-1 RA combination had a favorable safety profile in the trial.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/25/01/43237532/veru-shares-tumble-despite-enobosarms-lean-muscle-preservation-breakthrough" rel="noreferrer noopener">Veru Shares Tumble Despite Enobosarm&#8217;s Lean Muscle Preservation Breakthrough</a>
There were no increases in gastrointestinal side effects. There is also no evidence of drug-induced liver injury, or increases in obstructive sleep apnea at any dose of enobosarm compared to the placebo. 
There were no AEs of increases in prostate-specific antigen in men. There were no AEs related to masculinization in women. There were no reports of suicidal ideation observed.
No treatment-related serious adverse events (SAEs) were observed in the QUALITY study.
At the proposed Phase 3 program dose of enobosarm 3mg, one subject experienced an adverse event of a transient, mild increase in alanine aminotransferase (ALT), which returned to baseline while remaining on enobosarm.
There were no accompanying increases in aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase, or total bilirubin.
The data shows that adding enobosarm 3mg to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/25/05/g45639117/veru-reports-positive-safety-results-from-phase-2b-quality-study-enobosarm-added-to-semaglutide-le" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">semaglutide</a> created a more selective weight loss profile, with 99.1% of weight loss coming from fat rather than muscle compared to 68% in the semaglutide plus placebo arm.
The&nbsp;Stair Climb Test&nbsp;showed that 42.6% of semaglutide-only patients experienced significant functional decline equivalent to 7.5 years of aging, while only 16% of the enobosarm 3mg combination group showed a similar decline, translating to a 62.4% relative reduction in functional deterioration.
The enobosarm 6mg + semaglutide dose did not provide any additional benefit over the 3mg dose in preserving lean mass.
The company plans to propose a Phase 3 program similar to the Phase 2b QUALITY trial in older patients. The GLP-1 RA may be either Wegovy and/or Eli Lilly And Co&#8217;s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LLY#NYSE">LLY</a>) Zepbound (tirzepatide).
Price Action: VERU stock is up 22.5% at 62 cents at the last check Wednesday.
Read Next:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/05/45643704/ford-recalls-11-million-vehicles-for-camera-software-issue-report" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ford Recalls 1.1 Million Vehicles For Camera Software Issue: Report</a></li>
</ul>
Image: Shutterstock

VERU

Veru's Enobosarm Shows Muscle In Wegovy Combo Trial

This whale alert can help traders discover the next big trading opportunities.
Whales are entities with large sums of money and we track their transactions here at Benzinga on our options activity scanner.
Traders will search for circumstances when the market estimation of an option diverges heavily from its normal worth. High amounts of trading activity could push option prices to exaggerated or underestimated levels. 
Here's the list of options activity happening in today's session: 
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th>Open Interest</th>
<th>Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>TEM</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>05/30/25</td>
<td>$65.00</td>
<td>$37.4K</td>
<td>872</td>
<td>1.6K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>NVO</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$70.00</td>
<td>$302.0K</td>
<td>5.1K</td>
<td>1.1K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>LLY</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$850.00</td>
<td>$33.5K</td>
<td>31.4K</td>
<td>798</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>VERA</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$30.00</td>
<td>$41.1K</td>
<td>446</td>
<td>342</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>UNH</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/15/27</td>
<td>$400.00</td>
<td>$33.4K</td>
<td>1.9K</td>
<td>282</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MRK</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>12/18/26</td>
<td>$65.00</td>
<td>$104.7K</td>
<td>114</td>
<td>162</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>ABBV</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>08/15/25</td>
<td>$180.00</td>
<td>$111.8K</td>
<td>2.1K</td>
<td>105</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>HUM</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$215.00</td>
<td>$54.2K</td>
<td>385</td>
<td>87</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>VRNA</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$80.00</td>
<td>$28.8K</td>
<td>50</td>
<td>40</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>ONC</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$220.00</td>
<td>$32.2K</td>
<td>0</td>
<td>15</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h2>Explanation</h2>
These bullet-by-bullet explanations have been constructed using the accompanying table. 
• Regarding TEM (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TEM#NASDAQ">TEM</a>), we observe a put option trade with neutral sentiment. It expires in 3 day(s) on May 30, 2025. Parties traded 170 contract(s) at a $65.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $37.4K, with a price of $220.0 per contract. There were 872 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 1645 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For NVO (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVO#NYSE">NVO</a>), we notice a put option trade that happens to be bearish, expiring in 24 day(s) on June 20, 2025. This event was a transfer of 1000 contract(s) at a $70.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $302.0K, with a price of $302.0 per contract. There were 5187 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 1108 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding LLY (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LLY#NYSE">LLY</a>), we observe a call option sweep with bearish sentiment. It expires in 24 day(s) on June 20, 2025. Parties traded 100 contract(s) at a $850.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 5 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $33.5K, with a price of $335.0 per contract. There were 31403 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 798 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For VERA (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VERA#NASDAQ">VERA</a>), we notice a put option sweep that happens to be bullish, expiring in 24 day(s) on June 20, 2025. This event was a transfer of 34 contract(s) at a $30.00 strike. This particular put needed to be split into 14 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $41.1K, with a price of $1210.0 per contract. There were 446 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 342 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For UNH (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UNH#NYSE">UNH</a>), we notice a call option trade that happens to be bullish, expiring in 598 day(s) on January 15, 2027. This event was a transfer of 10 contract(s) at a $400.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $33.4K, with a price of $3342.0 per contract. There were 1906 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 282 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For MRK (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>), we notice a put option sweep that happens to be bullish, expiring in 570 day(s) on December 18, 2026. This event was a transfer of 161 contract(s) at a $65.00 strike. This particular put needed to be split into 14 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $104.7K, with a price of $655.0 per contract. There were 114 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 162 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding ABBV (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ABBV#NYSE">ABBV</a>), we observe a call option trade with bearish sentiment. It expires in 80 day(s) on August 15, 2025. Parties traded 87 contract(s) at a $180.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $111.8K, with a price of $1286.0 per contract. There were 2152 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 105 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding HUM (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HUM#NYSE">HUM</a>), we observe a put option sweep with bullish sentiment. It expires in 24 day(s) on June 20, 2025. Parties traded 67 contract(s) at a $215.00 strike. This particular put needed to be split into 3 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $54.2K, with a price of $810.0 per contract. There were 385 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 87 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For VRNA (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VRNA#NASDAQ">VRNA</a>), we notice a put option sweep that happens to be bearish, expiring in 24 day(s) on June 20, 2025. This event was a transfer of 40 contract(s) at a $80.00 strike. This particular put needed to be split into 14 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $28.8K, with a price of $720.0 per contract. There were 50 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 40 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For ONC (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ONC#NASDAQ">ONC</a>), we notice a call option trade that happens to be neutral, expiring in 24 day(s) on June 20, 2025. This event was a transfer of 15 contract(s) at a $220.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $32.2K, with a price of $2150.0 per contract. There were 0 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 15 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
Options Alert Terminology 
 - Call Contracts: The right to buy shares as indicated in the contract. 
 - Put Contracts: The right to sell shares as indicated in the contract. 
 - Expiration Date: When the contract expires. One must act on the contract by this date if one wants to use it. 
 - Premium/Option Price: The price of the contract. 
For more information, visit our <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/blog/how-to-understand-option-alerts/">Guide to Understanding Options Alerts</a> or read <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/options">more about unusual options activity</a>. 
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

ABBV

VERA

VRNA

10 Health Care Stocks Whale Activity In Today's Session

This whale alert can help traders discover the next big trading opportunities.
Whales are entities with large sums of money and we track their transactions here at Benzinga on our options activity scanner.
Traders often look for circumstances when the market estimation of an option diverges away from its normal worth. Abnormal amounts of trading activity could push option prices to hyperbolic or underperforming levels. 
Here's the list of options activity happening in today's session: 
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th>Open Interest</th>
<th>Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>CVS</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>05/30/25</td>
<td>$59.00</td>
<td>$69.2K</td>
<td>2.4K</td>
<td>4.6K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>NVO</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>05/30/25</td>
<td>$71.00</td>
<td>$39.1K</td>
<td>2.2K</td>
<td>4.0K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>UNH</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$200.00</td>
<td>$102.9K</td>
<td>4.0K</td>
<td>920</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>TMO</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>12/19/25</td>
<td>$280.00</td>
<td>$99.0K</td>
<td>1</td>
<td>650</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>RXRX</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/15/27</td>
<td>$7.00</td>
<td>$32.5K</td>
<td>3.5K</td>
<td>279</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>TEM</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>07/18/25</td>
<td>$65.00</td>
<td>$38.1K</td>
<td>6.6K</td>
<td>264</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>DHR</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>12/19/25</td>
<td>$190.00</td>
<td>$66.9K</td>
<td>25</td>
<td>42</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>HIMS</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>05/30/25</td>
<td>$36.00</td>
<td>$27.4K</td>
<td>266</td>
<td>38</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h2>Explanation</h2>
These itemized elaborations have been created using the accompanying table. 
• For CVS (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CVS#NYSE">CVS</a>), we notice a put option sweep that happens to be bearish, expiring in 7 day(s) on May 30, 2025. This event was a transfer of 752 contract(s) at a $59.00 strike. This particular put needed to be split into 35 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $69.2K, with a price of $92.0 per contract. There were 2468 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 4643 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding NVO (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVO#NYSE">NVO</a>), we observe a call option sweep with bearish sentiment. It expires in 7 day(s) on May 30, 2025. Parties traded 1000 contract(s) at a $71.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 21 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $39.1K, with a price of $39.0 per contract. There were 2294 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 4086 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding UNH (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UNH#NYSE">UNH</a>), we observe a put option sweep with bullish sentiment. It expires in 238 day(s) on January 16, 2026. Parties traded 96 contract(s) at a $200.00 strike. This particular put needed to be split into 19 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $102.9K, with a price of $1075.0 per contract. There were 4074 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 920 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For TMO (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TMO#NYSE">TMO</a>), we notice a put option sweep that happens to be bullish, expiring in 210 day(s) on December 19, 2025. This event was a transfer of 150 contract(s) at a $280.00 strike. This particular put needed to be split into 34 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $99.0K, with a price of $660.0 per contract. There were 1 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 650 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding RXRX (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RXRX#NASDAQ">RXRX</a>), we observe a call option trade with bearish sentiment. It expires in 602 day(s) on January 15, 2027. Parties traded 250 contract(s) at a $7.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $32.5K, with a price of $130.0 per contract. There were 3518 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 279 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding TEM (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TEM#NASDAQ">TEM</a>), we observe a call option sweep with bearish sentiment. It expires in 56 day(s) on July 18, 2025. Parties traded 53 contract(s) at a $65.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 7 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $38.1K, with a price of $720.0 per contract. There were 6682 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 264 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For DHR (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DHR#NYSE">DHR</a>), we notice a put option sweep that happens to be bearish, expiring in 210 day(s) on December 19, 2025. This event was a transfer of 34 contract(s) at a $190.00 strike. This particular put needed to be split into 5 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $66.9K, with a price of $1970.0 per contract. There were 25 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 42 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding HIMS (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HIMS#NYSE">HIMS</a>), we observe a call option trade with bullish sentiment. It expires in 7 day(s) on May 30, 2025. Parties traded 15 contract(s) at a $36.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $27.4K, with a price of $1830.0 per contract. There were 266 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 38 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
Options Alert Terminology 
 - Call Contracts: The right to buy shares as indicated in the contract. 
 - Put Contracts: The right to sell shares as indicated in the contract. 
 - Expiration Date: When the contract expires. One must act on the contract by this date if one wants to use it. 
 - Premium/Option Price: The price of the contract. 
For more information, visit our <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/blog/how-to-understand-option-alerts/">Guide to Understanding Options Alerts</a> or read <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/options">more about unusual options activity</a>. 
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

RXRX

8 Health Care Stocks With Whale Alerts In Today's Session

Novo Nordisk A/S (NOVO-B) has entered the 18th and final phase of its long-term Weekly Adhishthana Cycle, marking a potentially transformative period. While the weekly charts point to a possible Nirvana, which represents the highest price of the stock throughout its 18 phases, there are conflicting signals coming from the monthly charts as well as the company's NYSE ADR (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVO#NYSE">NVO</a>).
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Where Is Novo in the Adhishthana Cycle?</h3>
On May 12, 2025, Novo Nordisk (OMXCOP) entered Phase 18 of its Adhishthana Cycle, which began on December 23, 2013. Since then, the stock has shown an 88.5% alignment with the Adhishthana Principles on the weekly timeframe. Phase 18 is expected to run until November 8, 2026.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Understanding the Guna Triads</h3>
<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1200" height="675" src="https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/23121624/Novo-Nordisk-Adhishthana-Guna-Triads-.png" alt="Fig. 1 Novo Nordisk Phase 14, 15 &amp; 16 (Source: Adhishthan.com)" class="wp-image-13326" style="width:727px;height:auto" srcset="https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/23121624/Novo-Nordisk-Adhishthana-Guna-Triads-.png 1200w,https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/23121624/Novo-Nordisk-Adhishthana-Guna-Triads--300x169.png 300w,https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/23121624/Novo-Nordisk-Adhishthana-Guna-Triads--1024x576.png 1024w,https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/23121624/Novo-Nordisk-Adhishthana-Guna-Triads--768x432.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Fig. 1 Novo Nordisk Phase 14, 15 &amp; 16 (Source: Adhishthan.com)</figcaption></figure>
The trajectory of Phase 18 is influenced by the structure of Phases 14, 15, and 16, which I refer to as the ‘Guna Triads.' In Novo's case, the stock showed bullishness in Phases 14 and 15, and in Phase 16, it initially rallied and then corrected. The characteristics of these triads are illustrated in the figure below.
<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1200" height="675" src="https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/23121331/Adhishthana-Novo-Nordisk-Triad.png" alt="Fig. 2 Novo Nordisk Guna Triads (Source: Adhishthana.com)" class="wp-image-13324" style="width:793px;height:auto" srcset="https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/23121331/Adhishthana-Novo-Nordisk-Triad.png 1200w,https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/23121331/Adhishthana-Novo-Nordisk-Triad-300x169.png 300w,https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/23121331/Adhishthana-Novo-Nordisk-Triad-1024x576.png 1024w,https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/23121331/Adhishthana-Novo-Nordisk-Triad-768x432.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Fig. 2 Novo Nordisk Guna Triads (Source: Adhishthana.com)</figcaption></figure>
In the case of an SSR formation (Satoguna–Satoguna–Rajoguna), the chances of the stock attaining its Nirvana increase significantly, and there is little to no chance of the typical initial decline that often marks the start of Phase 18.
However, the monthly cycle and the NYSE ADRs tell a different story.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Monthly Charts: A Counterpoint</h3>
<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1200" height="668" src="https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/23121434/Novo-Nordisk-Monthly-Adhishthana-.png" alt="Fig. 3 Novo Nordisk Monthly Chart (Source: Adhishthana.com)" class="wp-image-13325" style="width:704px;height:auto" srcset="https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/23121434/Novo-Nordisk-Monthly-Adhishthana-.png 1200w,https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/23121434/Novo-Nordisk-Monthly-Adhishthana--300x167.png 300w,https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/23121434/Novo-Nordisk-Monthly-Adhishthana--1024x570.png 1024w,https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/23121434/Novo-Nordisk-Monthly-Adhishthana--768x428.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Fig. 3 Novo Nordisk (NOVO_B) Monthly Chart (Source: Adhishthana.com)</figcaption></figure>
On the monthly charts, Novo is currently in Phase 11, which typically produces a peak followed by a correction. This is consistent with the complete ‘Himalayan Formation' in line with the Adhishthana Principles. This also explains the stock's pullback since July 2024. However, the correction may not be complete.
According to the Principles, a true Phase 11 descent completes when the stock retraces to the point of the ascent's origin, which generally is Phase 9 or 10 low. This would be roughly around DKK 150, which is approximately 65 percent below current levels.
This presents a critical divergence:
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Weekly Chart: Signals an incoming Nirvana move by November 2026 </li>
<li>Monthly Chart: Suggests the current peak may still be forming, with the full descent yet to play out </li>
</ul>
This could mean that the present correction in reference to the monthly charts is not a terminal decline but part of a broader Himalayan formation (ascent) on the monthly cycle.
Also worth noting, the alignment on the monthly charts is only around 60-65%, which is significantly lower than the 88.5% alignment on the weekly charts. This reduces confidence in the monthly signals at this stage.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Final Conclusion</h3>
Novo Nordisk's Phase 18 Nirvana target on the weekly chart stands nearly 129% above current levels, suggesting explosive potential. However, the conflict between the weekly and monthly cycles introduces a high-risk, high-reward dynamic.
While some of our clients have increased exposure as Novo enters its final phase, the conflicting signals call for caution. The stock is uniquely positioned, technically bullish on one timeframe but structurally unresolved on another.
In sum, Novo Nordisk is at a pivotal juncture. The Nirvana move may still play out, but it is best suited for institutional money and high-risk investors. Individual desks should consider using proper hedging strategies, as the monthly and weekly cycles remain in conflict, potentially triggering a &#8216;death move&#8217; for Novo as it begins its 18th Phase.

Technicals

Opinion

Signals

Novo Nordisk's High Risk/Reward Proposition: 129% Rally Or 65% Drop?

Novo Nordisk Announces $199 First-Month Offer For Wegovy Available Through Jun. 30; Co. Also Intensifies Legal Actions For Unapproved Knockoff Drugs And Foreign Illicit Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients

This whale alert can help traders discover the next big trading opportunities.
Whales are entities with large sums of money and we track their transactions here at Benzinga on our options activity scanner.
Traders will search for circumstances when the market estimation of an option diverges heavily from its normal worth. High amounts of trading activity could push option prices to exaggerated or underestimated levels. 
Here's the list of options activity happening in today's session: 
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th>Open Interest</th>
<th>Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>BSX</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$90.00</td>
<td>$286.6K</td>
<td>20.5K</td>
<td>19.1K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>UNH</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>05/30/25</td>
<td>$320.00</td>
<td>$82.5K</td>
<td>2.3K</td>
<td>5.2K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>HUM</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>05/30/25</td>
<td>$290.00</td>
<td>$330.7K</td>
<td>64</td>
<td>1.3K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>AKRO</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$50.00</td>
<td>$81.0K</td>
<td>573</td>
<td>292</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>OCUL</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>12/19/25</td>
<td>$10.00</td>
<td>$32.5K</td>
<td>60</td>
<td>190</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>LLY</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>06/27/25</td>
<td>$810.00</td>
<td>$35.5K</td>
<td>12</td>
<td>169</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>BMY</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>03/20/26</td>
<td>$45.00</td>
<td>$43.0K</td>
<td>3.5K</td>
<td>113</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>HIMS</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>08/15/25</td>
<td>$60.00</td>
<td>$35.0K</td>
<td>2.4K</td>
<td>85</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>ABBV</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>08/15/25</td>
<td>$175.00</td>
<td>$93.8K</td>
<td>384</td>
<td>59</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>NVO</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/15/27</td>
<td>$40.00</td>
<td>$29.9K</td>
<td>776</td>
<td>58</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h2>Explanation</h2>
These itemized elaborations have been created using the accompanying table. 
• For BSX (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BSX#NYSE">BSX</a>), we notice a put option trade that happens to be bearish, expiring in 31 day(s) on June 20, 2025. This event was a transfer of 11467 contract(s) at a $90.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $286.6K, with a price of $25.0 per contract. There were 20532 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 19153 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding UNH (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UNH#NYSE">UNH</a>), we observe a call option trade with bearish sentiment. It expires in 10 day(s) on May 30, 2025. Parties traded 60 contract(s) at a $320.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $82.5K, with a price of $1375.0 per contract. There were 2315 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 5276 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding HUM (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HUM#NYSE">HUM</a>), we observe a call option trade with bullish sentiment. It expires in 10 day(s) on May 30, 2025. Parties traded 1350 contract(s) at a $290.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $330.7K, with a price of $245.0 per contract. There were 64 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 1371 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding AKRO (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AKRO#NASDAQ">AKRO</a>), we observe a call option sweep with bullish sentiment. It expires in 31 day(s) on June 20, 2025. Parties traded 270 contract(s) at a $50.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 11 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $81.0K, with a price of $300.0 per contract. There were 573 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 292 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding OCUL (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/OCUL#NASDAQ">OCUL</a>), we observe a put option trade with bearish sentiment. It expires in 213 day(s) on December 19, 2025. Parties traded 100 contract(s) at a $10.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $32.5K, with a price of $325.0 per contract. There were 60 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 190 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For LLY (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LLY#NYSE">LLY</a>), we notice a call option trade that happens to be bearish, expiring in 38 day(s) on June 27, 2025. This event was a transfer of 24 contract(s) at a $810.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $35.5K, with a price of $1480.0 per contract. There were 12 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 169 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding BMY (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BMY#NYSE">BMY</a>), we observe a put option trade with bearish sentiment. It expires in 304 day(s) on March 20, 2026. Parties traded 104 contract(s) at a $45.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $43.0K, with a price of $414.0 per contract. There were 3563 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 113 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding HIMS (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HIMS#NYSE">HIMS</a>), we observe a call option trade with neutral sentiment. It expires in 87 day(s) on August 15, 2025. Parties traded 25 contract(s) at a $60.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $35.0K, with a price of $1400.0 per contract. There were 2475 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 85 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding ABBV (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ABBV#NYSE">ABBV</a>), we observe a call option sweep with bearish sentiment. It expires in 87 day(s) on August 15, 2025. Parties traded 59 contract(s) at a $175.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 5 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $93.8K, with a price of $1590.0 per contract. There were 384 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 59 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For NVO (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVO#NYSE">NVO</a>), we notice a call option sweep that happens to be bullish, expiring in 605 day(s) on January 15, 2027. This event was a transfer of 9 contract(s) at a $40.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 9 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $29.9K, with a price of $3330.0 per contract. There were 776 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 58 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
Options Alert Terminology 
 - Call Contracts: The right to buy shares as indicated in the contract. 
 - Put Contracts: The right to sell shares as indicated in the contract. 
 - Expiration Date: When the contract expires. One must act on the contract by this date if one wants to use it. 
 - Premium/Option Price: The price of the contract. 
For more information, visit our <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/blog/how-to-understand-option-alerts/">Guide to Understanding Options Alerts</a> or read <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/options">more news on unusual options activity</a>. 
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

AKRO

OCUL

10 Health Care Stocks With Whale Alerts In Today's Session

Novo Nordisk shares are trading higher, rebounding after falling last week on a CEO departure announcement.

<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="683" src="https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/19081653/Top-Image-1024x683.png" alt="" class="wp-image-13068" style="width:920px;height:auto" srcset="https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/19081653/Top-Image-1024x683.png 1024w,https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/19081653/Top-Image-300x200.png 300w,https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/19081653/Top-Image-768x512.png 768w,https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/19081653/Top-Image.png 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A Threat To The Diabetes Cash Cow</h2>
Years ago, in a conversation with an endocrinologist, I mentioned there was no incentive to cure diabetes, giving the money companies were making from managing it (with testing supplies, insulin, etc.). He replied that the incumbents had no incentive to cure it, but a startup company would. Now it looks like one has—at least in one patient. Sana Biotechnology, Inc.  (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SANA#NASDAQ">SANA</a>) has developed a one-time treatment that could upend the entire diabetes industry.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">How It Works</h2>
Type 1 diabetes occurs when the immune system destroys the pancreatic beta cells, which are responsible for producing insulin. While transplants of donor islets—clusters of cells that include beta cells—can restore insulin production, they require scarce donor tissue and lifelong immunosuppressive drugs, which carry serious risks. As a result, insulin remains the only practical treatment for nearly all Type 1 diabetics.&nbsp;Sana has successfully engineered donor-derived islets to evade immune rejection, enabling a Type 1 diabetic to produce his own insulin, without the need for immunosuppressive drugs.
This isn't just theory. In a clinical trial at Uppsala University in Sweden, Sana's genetically engineered pancreatic islets were injected into the forearm of a Type 1 diabetic. As the company noted in its annual report, this patient is now&nbsp;more than three months post-treatment, making his own insulin for the first time in 30 years—with no immunosuppressive therapy.
A recent presentation by Sana shows the results of this experiment so far. The C-peptide mentioned there is a biomarker of insulin production.
<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="578" src="https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/19081738/Clinical-Results-1024x578.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-13069" srcset="https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/19081738/Clinical-Results-1024x578.jpg 1024w,https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/19081738/Clinical-Results-300x169.jpg 300w,https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/19081738/Clinical-Results-768x433.jpg 768w,https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/19081738/Clinical-Results.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Slides from Sana's <a href="https://ir.sana.com/static-files/1f3a1d8c-24eb-4695-9380-747332ddae2a">May 2025 Corporate Presentation</a>.</figcaption></figure>
As the subsequent slide in the presentation shows, the patient was producing no insulin before the procedure, but has been producing insulin consistently since.
<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="580" src="https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/19081849/C-Peptide-Slide-1024x580.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-13070" srcset="https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/19081849/C-Peptide-Slide-1024x580.jpg 1024w,https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/19081849/C-Peptide-Slide-300x170.jpg 300w,https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/19081849/C-Peptide-Slide-768x435.jpg 768w,https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/19081849/C-Peptide-Slide.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Plan For Mass Production</h2>
The islet cells used in that trial came from a cadaveric donor. Sana's goal is to scale this breakthrough using&nbsp;stem cell–derived islets—which contain insulin-producing beta cells—that can be manufactured in large quantities and delivered off the shelf. The result would be a&nbsp;one-time treatment&nbsp;that could eliminate the need for insulin, blood sugar monitoring, and other diabetes therapies.
<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="575" src="https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/19081940/One-time-treatment-1024x575.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-13071" srcset="https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/19081940/One-time-treatment-1024x575.jpg 1024w,https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/19081940/One-time-treatment-300x169.jpg 300w,https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/19081940/One-time-treatment-768x431.jpg 768w,https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/19081940/One-time-treatment.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>
Larger dose‑escalation cohorts under way, with 6‑ and 12‑month read‑outs expected over the next year.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">The Potential Market Impact</h3>
If the current results hold up, Sana's therapy would convert Type‑1 diabetes from a&nbsp;chronic drug‑and‑device market&nbsp;into a&nbsp;one‑time cell‑therapy market—a seismic shift for incumbents.
<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="963" height="547" src="https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/19082028/Market-Impact.png" alt="" class="wp-image-13072" srcset="https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/19082028/Market-Impact.png 963w,https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/19082028/Market-Impact-300x170.png 300w,https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/19082028/Market-Impact-768x436.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 963px) 100vw, 963px" /></figure>
As you can see above, diabetes therapies comprise 75% of Novo Nordisk A/S&#8217;s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVO#NYSE">NVO</a>) sales and 43% of Ely Lilly and Company&#8217;s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LLY#NYSE">LLY</a>). For DexCom, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DXCM#NASDAQ">DXCM</a>) and Insulet Corporation (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PODD#NASDAQ">PODD</a>), diabetes is pretty much their entire businesses.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Timeline That Matters</h2>
Some potential milestones to keep in mind for Sana headlines that could impact the diabetes therapy industry.
<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="527" src="https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/19082137/Timeline-1024x527.png" alt="" class="wp-image-13073" srcset="https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/19082137/Timeline-1024x527.png 1024w,https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/19082137/Timeline-300x154.png 300w,https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/19082137/Timeline-768x395.png 768w,https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/19082137/Timeline.png 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Bottom Line</h2>
Sana has not&nbsp;cured&nbsp;diabetes yet—but a&nbsp;&gt; 3‑month insulin‑free human case without immunosuppression&nbsp;is more evidence than the market usually prices into chronically‑treated franchises. Shareholders of the incumbent companies mentioned above ought to consider hedging. The Portfolio Armor iPhone app can help you find the least expensive hedge that fits your risk tolerance and time frame. You can download it by aiming your iPhone camera at the QR code below (or by&nbsp;<a href="https://apps.apple.com/us/app/portfolio-armor/id394951144">tapping here</a>, if you are reading this on your iPhone).
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><a href="https://apps.apple.com/us/app/portfolio-armor/id394951144"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="683" src="https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/19082314/PA-JPEG-5-1024x683.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-13074" srcset="https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/19082314/PA-JPEG-5-1024x683.jpeg 1024w,https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/19082314/PA-JPEG-5-300x200.jpeg 300w,https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/19082314/PA-JPEG-5-768x512.jpeg 768w,https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/19082314/PA-JPEG-5.jpeg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></a></figure>
Enterprising investors might also consider adding a small position in SANA. There's asymmetric upside potential if follow‑up cohorts validate the initial results. My subscribers and I bought shares in the company earlier this year, and then LEAPS on it last week, now that the stock has options traded on it.
<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://portfolioarmor.substack.com/p/trade-alert-pharma-panic"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="917" height="617" src="https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/19082502/Trade-Alert.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-13076" srcset="https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/19082502/Trade-Alert.jpg 917w,https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/19082502/Trade-Alert-300x202.jpg 300w,https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/19082502/Trade-Alert-768x517.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 917px) 100vw, 917px" /></a></figure>
Our LEAPS expire in January, 2027.
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You can scan for optimal hedges for individual securities, find our current top ten names, and&nbsp;create hedged portfolios&nbsp;on&nbsp;<a href="https://portfolioarmor.com/">our website</a>.&nbsp;You can also follow Portfolio Armor on X&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/portfolioarmor">here</a>, or become a free subscriber to our trading Substack using the link below (we&#8217;re using that for our occasional emails now).
<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://portfolioarmor.substack.com/"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="581" height="372" src="https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/19082648/Widget-5.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-13077" srcset="https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/19082648/Widget-5.jpg 581w,https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/19082648/Widget-5-300x192.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 581px) 100vw, 581px" /></a></figure>

DXCM

PODD

SANA

The End Of The Diabetes Industry? This Small Cap Could Upend The Business Models of Pharma Giants

On May 12, President Donald Trump followed through on a campaign promise by signing an Executive Order (EO) mandating that pharmaceutical companies lower their prescription drug prices in the US to those seen abroad.
At a media event, Trump told reporters he was aiming for price cuts of between 59% and 90% and gave drug companies 30 days to play ball.
Wall Street digested the news, and while major biopharma stocks saw share prices drop the day the EO was announced, most industry stocks rebounded.&nbsp;
Here are three pharma stocks that won&#8217;t just rebound, but are poised to soar because of Trump&#8217;s executive order.
<h1 class="wp-block-heading">Team Trump on Solid Ground?</h1>
Nobody&#8217;s denying that US drug prices are out of whack. A 2024 RAND Corporation study concluded US drug prices were approximately three times higher than those in 33 other developed countries.
Presidents have full power to order such a price cut from a private industry, at least in part.
&#8220;That&#8217;s especially the case in sectors like healthcare where government programs like Medicare are massive buyers,&#8221; said Lou Carter, founder and CEO at the Best Practice Institute in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla. &#8220;Policy isn&#8217;t just about law—it&#8217;s about leverage. This EO uses the weight of public programs to force pricing accountability, and that&#8217;s smart business when you&#8217;re managing taxpayer funds.&#8221;
Congress and the courts can try to stop the EO in its tracks, but success on that front is unlikely.&nbsp;
&#8220;Politically, it&#8217;s tough to argue against lower drug prices,&#8221; Carter said. &#8220;Even if pharma lobbies hard, most lawmakers know it&#8217;s political suicide to oppose something that helps seniors afford insulin. If this goes to court, it&#8217;ll hinge on procedural questions—not on whether the move is popular or right.&#8221;
<h1 class="wp-block-heading">Bigger Drug Makers are Hardest Hit</h1>
Given the size and scope of the EO, it&#8217;s no surprise that the more substantial drug companies may find themselves in financial trouble.&nbsp;
&#8220;Large-cap biotech and specialty pharma companies with heavy Medicare exposure like Amgen (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMGN#NASDAQ">AMGN</a>) or Regeneron (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/REGN#NASDAQ">REGN</a>) could be hit hardest,&#8221; said Dr. Will Soliman, Founder and CEO of the New York City-based Accreditation Council for Medical Affairs. &#8220;They rely on high-margin (Medicare) Part B drugs.&#8221;
Vertical-oriented drug makers could also feel the heat from the EO.&nbsp;
&#8220;Specialized oncology manufacturers like Bristol Myers Squibb (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BMY#NYSE">BMY</a>) have greater exposure than diversified pharmaceutical companies with broader portfolio ranges,&#8221; said Seann Malloy, founder and managing partner of Malloy Law Offices in Bethesda, Md. &#8220;Small to mid-cap biotechnology companies with early commercial products often fall outside immediate impact zones due to limited Medicare utilization and existing price protection provisions. &#8220;
&#8220;The executive order&#8217;s key element mandates that Medicare&#8217;s prescription drug payments align with the lowest prices in other developed countries, essentially using international reference pricing,&#8221; Malloy said. &#8220;While some demonstration projects will start within 30 days, full implementation across all provisions will take longer, likely 6-12 months, due to necessary regulatory development. &#8220;
Timing could play a big role in determining how much of an impact the EO will have on biotech drug stocks, if any.
Initially, the order focuses on physician-administered drugs under Medicare Part B but may later include retail prescriptions under Part D. &#8220;This staged implementation means the immediate and long-term market effects will differ, a point often missed by investors,&#8221; Malloy noted. &#8220;Despite initial impressions of swift price changes, significant revenue impacts will likely be delayed by extensive regulatory procedures.&#8221;
Additionally, overseas drug providers may face stiff headwinds from the Trump drug price directive.
&#8220;International manufacturers are most vulnerable,&#8221; said Javier Palomarez, founder and CEO of the United States Hispanic Business Council. &#8220;Many of them ship to the United States because of the return on investment &#8211; eroding that return dampens the incentive and ability to ship medicines across the world, which could lead to total loss of US market access for some companies.&#8221;
<h1 class="wp-block-heading">Three Drug Stocks That Bear Watching Over the Next 30 Days</h1>
Biotech investors looking to leverage the Trump EO should understand Trump&#8217;s intention to &#8220;cut out the middleman,&#8221; as he said in his May 12 press event. This translates to good news for actual drug manufacturers and not-so-good news for so-called pharmacy-benefit managers.
PBM&#8217;s act as intermediaries between health insurance companies, big employers, drug manufacturers, insurers, and patients. While they don&#8217;t produce prescription drugs, they handle the more mundane side of the drug business, like claims processing and negotiating prescription drug prices.
The big drug producers have historically blamed the PBMs for sky-high drug prices and would likely back any initiative that expands the direct-to-consumer drug marketplace. In that scenario, no insurers are needed, as drug consumers could deal directly with drug manufacturers to buy the medicines they need, presumably at a more affordable price.
Investors in that marketplace would want large drug makers, and big PBMs would not. These three drug stocks stand out on the plus side.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Eli Lilly</h2>
Drug manufacturing giant Eli Lilly (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LLY#NYSE">LLY</a>) is priced high at $730 per share, but it&#8217;s a stock that would likely prosper in a direct-to-consumer prescription drug marketplace. The stock is off by 5.0% year-to-date, but 26 Wall Street analysts who track LLY give it a top rating. The company&#8217;s recent earnings per share are off the charts, with an upward spike of 106% in EPS in 2024 and an estimated 68% in 2025. The stock is off 20% compared to recent highs, which could mean a nice discount for a drug industry stalwart.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Novo Nordisk</h2>
Novo Nordisk (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVO#NYSE">NVO</a>) has experienced market woes that preceded the Trump E/O, as competitors continue to chew into market share in the lucrative weight loss drug market. Particularly damaging was a recent study that concluded patients taking Eli Lilly&#8217;s Zepbound were losing weight faster than with Novo&#8217;s Wegovy. That&#8217;s one big reason Novo Nordisk has seen its share price fall by 50% over the past year. Yet the stock is in rebound mode right now, up 13.9% over the past month. A $2.2 billion deal between Novo and Septerna (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SEPN#NASDAQ">SEPN</a>) to develop weight loss pills is seen as a big step by analysts and big names like Goldman Sachs and JP Morgan are sticking to their buy calls on the stock. Meanwhile, a larger group of industry analysts is out with a consensus 50% share price upside from current levels.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">AbbVie</h2>
AbbVie (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ABBV#NYSE">ABBV</a>) is a genuine cash flow producer that seems immune to any political interference from Washington, D.C. The drug manufacturer has a diverse set of popular prescription drugs, like Botox, Humira, Rinvoq, and Skyrizi. The stock only fell by a paltry 1% on the E news this week, and is up 5% over the past month. It also comes with a healthy 3.6% dividend for income-minded investors, a robust drug pipeline in play, and a brand new regulatory &#8220;green light&#8221; for its lung cancer drug Emrelis, supporting the rationale that ABBV shares should continue to climb in 2025.
<a href="https://benzinga.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_OJ2FBspHSJSSVNlW8zGapw/?utm_campaign=webinar052025&amp;utm_adType=sponsorad&amp;utm_ad=RD051925/?el=ResearchDaily&amp;he={{email}}&amp;adt_ei={{email}}&amp;utm_medium=newsletter">Smart Options Plays for Traders Watching Junk Bonds</a> Credit markets are breaking down. Volatility is back. Join Ryan Faloona, Anne-Marie Baiynd, and Tim Melvin live on May 20 at 6 PM ET to see how seasoned traders are using junk bond signals and short-term options to hedge, profit, and stay a step ahead. <a href="https://benzinga.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_OJ2FBspHSJSSVNlW8zGapw/?utm_campaign=webinar052025&amp;utm_adType=sponsorad&amp;utm_ad=RD051925/?el=ResearchDaily&amp;he={{email}}&amp;adt_ei={{email}}&amp;utm_medium=newsletter">Save your seat for this live tactical session.</a>
Image via Shutterstock

AMGN

SEPN

3 Stocks That Will Profit From Trump's Drug Price Cut

Novo Nordisk A/S (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVO#NYSE">NVO</a>) shares fell on Friday after the company announced that CEO Lars Fruergaard Jørgensen will <a target="_blank" href="https://view.news.eu.nasdaq.com/view?id=b6731bc5fbbb86a53bdd454ea6c2f7d98&amp;lang=en&amp;src=listed" rel="noreferrer noopener">step down</a> after eight years leading the company.
He will remain in the role temporarily to help ensure a smooth leadership transition while a successor is identified.
The decision follows a decline in Novo Nordisk's share price since mid-2024 and increased pressure from the Novo Nordisk Foundation, which holds majority voting power through its investment company. The foundation also pushed for stronger board representation.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/25/05/45418556/novo-nordisks-ozempic-weight-loss-jabs-could-boost-uk-economy-by-6-billion-study-finds" rel="noreferrer noopener">Novo Nordisk's Ozempic Weight Loss Jabs Could Boost UK Economy By $6 Billion, Study Finds</a>
NVO stock has lost close to 50% of its value in the last year and is down over 23% year-to-date. The company makes blockbuster drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy.
The company said that during his eight years as CEO, Novo Nordisk's sales, profits and share price have almost tripled.
Helge Lund, chair of the Novo Nordisk Board, says, "Novo Nordisk's strategy remains unchanged, and the Board is confident in the company's current business plans and its ability to execute on the plans."
Lars Rebien Sørensen, current chair of the foundation and former CEO of Novo Nordisk, will join the company's board as an observer.
He is expected to be nominated as a board member at the 2026 Annual General Meeting, bringing with him extensive industry experience and deep company knowledge. Board Chair Helge Lund said the company's overall strategy remains intact.
The executive transition comes amid mixed business signals. While the company reported lukewarm <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/05/45252150/novo-nordisk-expects-fda-decision-for-oral-wegovy-by-end-of-2025-reports-mixed-q1-earnings" rel="noreferrer noopener">Q1 earnings</a>, it remains optimistic about upcoming regulatory milestones, including an expected FDA decision on oral Wegovy by the end of 2025.
On Wednesday, Novo Nordisk entered a global <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/25/05/45407486/novo-nordisk-inks-22-billion-deal-with-septerna-to-develop-oral-weight-loss-and-diabetes-drugs" rel="noreferrer noopener">collaboration</a> with Septerna Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SEPN#NASDAQ">SEPN</a>) to develop oral small-molecule therapies for obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiometabolic diseases.
The deal includes over $200 million in upfront and near-term milestone payments, with Septerna eligible for up to $2.2 billion in total. Novo Nordisk will cover all development costs and lead commercialization.
Price Action: NVO shares are trading lower by 3.87% to $63.64 premarket at the last check on Friday.
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Photo by KK Stock via Shutterstock

Management

Ozempic Maker Novo Nordisk Looks For New Chief, Jørgensen Steps Down From CEO Role

Novo Nordisk shares are trading lower after the company after the company announced that CEO Lars Fruergaard Jørgensen is stepping down from his role.

Novo Nordisk CEO Lars Fruergaard Jørgensen To Step Down, Search For Successor Is Ongoing; Lars Fruergaard Jørgensen Will Continue As CEO For A Period Amid Transition

Making weight loss injections available to all eligible individuals in the U.K. could yield an economic boost of 4.5 billion pounds (around $5.99 billion) annually, according to new research presented at the European Congress <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/weight-loss" rel="noreferrer noopener">on Obesity in Málaga, Spain</a>.
The findings highlight the broader societal and productivity benefits of Novo Nordisk A/S&#8217; (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVO#NYSE">NVO</a>) semaglutide, a drug known by brand names such as Wegovy and Ozempic.
Globally, obesity is projected to affect 3.8 billion adults and nearly 750 million children and adolescents by 2050.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/05/45341500/eli-lillys-zepbound-shows-superior-weight-loss-over-novo-nordisks-wegovy-in-head-to-head-trial" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eli Lilly&#8217;s Zepbound Shows Superior Weight Loss Over Novo Nordisk&#8217;s Wegovy In Head-To-Head Trial</a>
In the U.K., 26.5% of adults are currently obese, and 4.6 million people live with type 2 diabetes. These conditions cost the U.K. an estimated 100 billion pounds annually in healthcare and related expenses, according to the Guardian report.
The study examined data from 2,660 participants in U.K. clinical trials who were living with obesity and/or type 2 diabetes.
Researchers found that those taking semaglutide could work five additional days per year and contribute 12 extra days of unpaid labor, such as volunteering or childcare.
This increase in productivity translated to an average annual &#8220;net production value&#8221; of 1,127 pounds per person.
Applied nationally, the researchers estimated potential productivity gains of 4.31 billion pounds from treating individuals with severe obesity and 200 million pounds from treating those with type 2 diabetes.
Currently, NHS guidelines recommend semaglutide for patients with a BMI of 35 or higher and at least one weight-related condition.
However, some experts cautioned against widespread access due to high drug costs.
The U.K. Health Secretary Wes Streeting acknowledged the findings, calling the drugs &#8220;colossal&#8221; tools in the fight against obesity and a potential means to reintegrate unemployed Britons into the workforce. He said the government would carefully assess the research.
Semaglutide and liraglutide may also have implications beyond weight loss.
Citing another study presented at the Málaga conference, the Guardian <a target="_blank" href="https://www.theguardian.com/society/2025/may/09/weight-loss-jabs-bolster-uk-economy-study-semaglutide" rel="noreferrer noopener">report</a> on Friday highlighted that overweight adults taking the drugs cut their alcohol consumption by nearly two-thirds in just four months.
The study tracked 262 individuals in Ireland and Saudi Arabia and reported a drop in weekly alcohol intake from 11.3 to 4.3 units. Among regular drinkers, consumption fell from 23.2 to 7.8 units—an effect greater than that seen with nalmefene, a drug currently prescribed in Europe for alcohol use disorder.
Price Action: NVO stock is down 1.67% at $64.31 at the last check on Wednesday.
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Photo by KK Stock via Shutterstock

Eurozone

Novo Nordisk's Ozempic Weight Loss Jabs Could Boost UK Economy By $6 Billion, Study Finds

Septerna Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SEPN#NASDAQ">SEPN</a>) and Novo Nordisk A/S (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVO#NYSE">NVO</a>) announced an exclusive global collaboration and license agreement on Wednesday.
The pact covers discovering, developing, and commercializing oral small-molecule medicines for obesity, type 2 diabetes, and other <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/health-care" rel="noreferrer noopener">cardiometabolic diseases</a>.
The companies <a href="https://www.novonordisk.com/content/nncorp/global/en/news-and-media/news-and-ir-materials/news-details.html?id=916006" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">will</a> initially commence four development programs. 
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/25/05/45347237/novo-nordisks-sogroya-supports-effective-weekly-alternative-to-daily-hormone-therapy-across-three-growth-disorders" rel="noreferrer noopener">Novo Nordisk&#8217;s Sogroya Supports Effective Weekly Alternative To Daily Hormone Therapy Across Three Growth Disorders</a>
GPCRs represent the largest and most diverse family of cell membrane receptors, with hundreds of different GPCRs regulating physiological processes in nearly every organ system of the human body.
Using its proprietary Native Complex Platform, Septerna aims to unlock the full potential of GPCR therapies. The company is focused on discovering and developing a pipeline of oral small molecules for multiple therapeutic areas.
Septerna is eligible to receive approximately $2.2 billion across an upfront payment, R&amp;D, and commercial milestone payments. It also includes over $200 million in upfront and near-term milestone payments.
Septerna can also receive tiered royalties on global net sales of marketed products. Under the collaboration, Novo Nordisk will cover all research and development expenses for partnered programs.
The companies will jointly conduct research activities from discovery through candidate selection.
Starting with IND-enabling activities, Novo Nordisk will be solely responsible for all global development and commercialisation activities. In addition, Septerna has the right to opt in to a worldwide profit share for one program in the collaboration in lieu of future milestones and royalties for that product candidate.
On Tuesday, secondary post hoc <a target="_blank" href="https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/in-new-select-trial-analysis-early-reduction-in-cardiovascular-events-was-observed-with-wegovy-before-clinically-meaningful-changes-in-body-weight-302453751.html" rel="noreferrer noopener">analysis</a> of Novo Nordisk&#8217;s SELECT trial showed that within the first three months of Wrgovy treatment, reductions in the risk of MACE in adults with obesity and established cardiovascular disease (CVD) were seen.
Reductions were also observed within six months in the risk of dying from CVD or being hospitalized or needing urgent medical attention due to heart failure.
Data showed that within six months of treatment, a reduction in risk of CV death was observed for patients taking Wegovy&nbsp;related to CV death; lowered composite heart failure risk, and reduced death from any cause.
Price Action: Septerna stock is up 63.08% at $10.98. Novo Nordisk stock is up 1.87% at $66.62 at the last check on Wednesday.
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Image: Shutterstock

Contracts

Novo Nordisk Inks $2.2 Billion Deal With Septerna To Develop Oral Weight Loss And Diabetes Drugs

Legal

Press Releases

NVO FINAL DEADLINE: ROSEN, NATIONAL TRIAL LAWYERS, Encourages Novo Nordisk A/S Investors to Secure Counsel Before Important March 25 Deadline in Securities Class Action – NVO

NVO INVESTOR ALERT: Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman LLC Announces that Novo Nordisk A/S Investors with Substantial Losses Have Opportunity to Lead Class Action Lawsuit

The Gross Law Firm Notifies Shareholders of Novo Nordisk A/S(NVO) of a Class Action Lawsuit and an Upcoming Deadline

Novo Nordisk expands Wegovy® $499-per-month offering to additional cash-paying patients via the Wegovy® savings offer

ONGOING DEADLINE ALERT: Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP Investigates Claims on Behalf of Investors of Novo Nordisk

NVO DEADLINE ALERT: Novo Nordisk (NVO) Investors with Losses Encouraged to Contact Hagens Berman Before Mar. 25th Deadline in Securities Class Action

Novo Nordisk A/S Sued for Securities Law Violations – Investors Should Contact Levi & Korsinsky Before March 25, 2025 to Discuss Your Rights – NVO

Novo Nordisk A/S Investors: Please contact the Portnoy Law Firm to recover your losses; March 25, 2025 Deadline to file Lead Plaintiff Motion

Small Cap

From Retina Scans to Cancer Trials, AI Is Taking Over the Exam Room

New Novo Nordisk initiatives support patient access to authentic, FDA-approved Wegovy® as federal ban on mass compounding of "semaglutide" takes effect

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Date	Put/Call	Strike Price	Exp Date	DTE	Trade Vol	Day Vol	Vol / OI	OI	Trade Type	Sentiment
10:17 AMFeb 19, 2025	CALL	$110.00	Jan 16, 2026	225	1200	1200	62	1937	TRADE	BEARISH
11:16 AMFeb 18, 2025	CALL	$80.00	May 16, 2025	-20	202	1000	53	378	SWEEP	BULLISH
09:47 AMFeb 18, 2025	CALL	$50.00	Apr 17, 2025	-49	0	200	0	2	TRADE	BULLISH