Novo Nordisk reported a 16% increase in sales in Danish kroner and an 18% rise at constant exchange rates, reaching DKK 154.9 billion in the first half of 2025. The company also posted earnings per share of DKK 12.49 and a 25% increase in operating profit, driven primarily by its obesity care and GLP-1 diabetes treatments. Despite these strong first-half results, Novo Nordisk has lowered its full-year outlook due to reduced growth expectations for its GLP-1 treatments amid increasing market competition. The Danish pharmaceutical firm faces growing challenges from U.S. competitor Eli Lilly and the emergence of copycat versions of its obesity drug Wegovy. In response, Novo Nordisk plans to cut costs, including reducing its research and development program and limiting future investments. The company is also considering layoffs as it navigates this competitive environment.