Novo Nordisk A/S is a global healthcare company operating in the biotechnology industry, specializing in the research, development, and commercialization of innovative treatments for diabetes, obesity, hemophilia, growth disorders, and other chronic diseases.
Founded in 1923 in Copenhagen, Denmark, by August Krogh (Nobel Laureate in Medicine, 1920) and his wife Marie Krogh, the company emerged with the mission of bringing insulin treatment to Europe—becoming one of the pioneers in diabetes care.
Novo Nordisk’s portfolio includes:
- Long- and short-acting insulin therapies
- Advanced glucose control medications
- Injectable treatments for obesity and metabolic disorders (e.g., Ozempic / semaglutide)
- Insulin delivery devices and digital tools for chronic disease management
With over 45,000 employees operating in more than 80 countries, Novo Nordisk distributes its products to millions of patients globally. Its presence spans major healthcare markets, including the United States, Europe, Latin America, and Asia.
The company also develops digital health technologies to enhance monitoring and patient care, while maintaining a strong focus on R&D and sustainability. Through cutting-edge clinical research and strategic partnerships, it continues to innovate in the treatment of complex chronic diseases.
Novo Nordisk shares are listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) under the ticker NVO.
History and Founding of Novo Nordisk A/S
Novo Nordisk A/S was established in 1923 in Copenhagen, Denmark, by August Krogh, a Nobel Prize-winning physiologist, and his wife Marie Krogh, a physician. The company was originally founded with a singular purpose: to bring insulin production to Europe and make diabetes treatment accessible to patients on the continent.
In its early years, Novo Nordisk faced numerous technical and logistical challenges related to mass-producing insulin, but its commitment to medical innovation led to the development of improved insulin formulations and application devices.
Throughout the 20th century, the company expanded internationally and diversified its product offerings, adding treatments for hemophilia, hormonal disorders, and growth deficiencies.
Novo Nordisk made its initial public offering (IPO) on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE), reinforcing its global position in the biotechnology sector and enabling continued investment in R&D and international expansion.
From 2020 to 2024, Novo Nordisk significantly increased its global footprint in obesity treatment, launching breakthrough drugs like semaglutide, which gained widespread adoption. The company also accelerated investments in digital health platforms, enabling remote monitoring and improving chronic disease management.
Today, Novo Nordisk continues to stand as a leader in metabolic and chronic disease care, recognized for its scientific rigor, innovation-driven growth strategy, and commitment to improving quality of life for patients worldwide.
Additional Information
The Company Novo Nordisk A/S (United States), is listed on NYSE with a market cap of $ 211.67 Billions, having an equity of $ 26.72 Billions.
With a total of 45.000 employees, the company is listed in the sector of Health Care and categorized in industry of Biotechnology.
In the last 12 months the Company had a revenue of $ 47.02 Billions, which generated a profit in the amount of $ 15.42 Billions.
As for its main indicators, the Company has a P/E ratio of 13.73, a P/BV ratio of 7.92 and in the last 12 months the dividend yield of NVO was at 3.54%.
The Company is traded internationally through the ticker NVO.