**Pfizer Completes Acquisition of Metsera After Fierce Bidding Rivalry with Novo Nordisk**
In a calculated effort to enhance its lineup of metabolic hormone therapies, the American pharmaceutical powerhouse Pfizer has successfully concluded its acquisition of Metsera, a biotech firm celebrated for its advanced weight loss treatments, for upwards of $7 billion. This deal signifies the end of an intense bidding rivalry between Pfizer and the Danish giant, Novo Nordisk.
Metsera initially consented to a $5 billion arrangement with Pfizer on September 22, alongside performance-based additions surpassing $2 billion. However, Novo Nordisk’s last-minute engagement with a more lucrative bid intensified the contest, leading Pfizer to pursue legal actions to prevent Metsera from agreeing to Novo’s offer. Pfizer contended that Novo’s motives could be aimed at reducing competition for its current weight loss products.
On November 7, following thorough deliberation, Metsera chose Pfizer’s updated proposal. This revised offer equaled Novo’s total value and had the unique benefit of rapid endorsement from the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC). Novo’s bid, although similar in financial terms, raised potential regulatory issues due to the concerns flagged by the FTC regarding the unconventional payment structure.
With Novo Nordisk officially withdrawing any further bidding efforts, Pfizer’s acquisition of Metsera is poised to strengthen its position in the expanding weight loss drug sector. The deal emphasizes the crucial significance of metabolic therapies and heralds a competitive era for international pharmaceutical firms in tackling obesity and associated metabolic conditions.