FDA Approves Oral Wegovy, Outpacing Eli Lilly’s Orforglipron Launch and Efficacy

LLYLLY

The FDA approved Novo Nordisk’s oral Wegovy pill on December 23, 2025, showing 16.6% average weight loss over 64 weeks versus Eli Lilly’s 12.4% over 72 weeks for orforglipron. Novo expects to begin U.S. sales in January 2026, several months before Lilly’s projected late-March launch.

1. Ascent Group LLC Increases Position in Eli Lilly

In its most recent 13F filing with the SEC, Ascent Group LLC reported a 3.3% increase in its holdings of Eli Lilly, acquiring an additional 575 shares during the third quarter. Following this purchase, the firm’s total position stands at 17,821 shares, representing an investment of approximately $13.6 million. This modest uptick underscores Ascent Group’s continued confidence in Eli Lilly’s long-term growth trajectory, particularly as the company expands its leadership in metabolic and immunology therapies.

2. Broader Institutional Activity Highlights Growing Confidence

Several other prominent asset managers also adjusted their Eli Lilly exposure in recent quarters. Vanguard Group added 1.5% to its stake, now owning over 80.4 million shares valued north of $62.7 billion, while Laurel Wealth Advisors dramatically expanded its position by 78,621.2%, taking ownership of 11.6 million shares. Norges Bank initiated a new stake valued at roughly $8.8 billion, and Jennison Associates increased its holding by 4.3% to 5.45 million shares. Collectively, these moves helped push institutional ownership above 82%, reflecting widespread belief in Eli Lilly’s robust pipeline and market leadership.

3. Strong Fundamental Performance and Dividend Enhancement

Eli Lilly delivered third-quarter results marked by revenue growth of 53.9% year-over-year, generating $17.6 billion in sales and $7.02 in adjusted EPS—outpacing consensus by $0.60. The company reported a net margin of 30.99% and an ROE of 109.52%, underscoring operational efficiency and profitability. To further reward shareholders, management announced a quarterly dividend increase to $1.73 per share, up from $1.50, representing an annualized payout of $6.92 and a payout ratio of 29.35%. This marks the seventh consecutive year of dividend growth, reinforcing Eli Lilly’s commitment to returning capital while funding next-generation research.

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