Novo Holdings announced in February that it had entered into an agreement to buy Catalent. Now, American consumer organizations want the deal stopped. (Archive photo). Photo: Yves Herman/Reuters
US blocs seek to halt Novo’s Catalent purchase
US consumer organizations and unions have petitioned the FTC to block Novo Holdings’ $16.5 billion acquisition of Catalent, citing competition concerns particularly in weight loss and gene therapies. They fear this might limit competitors’ abilities to bring products to market and secure the necessary production capabilities. Novo Holdings, which holds a dominant position in Novo Nordisk with 28% of the capital and 77% of the votes, declined to comment. Democratic Senator Elizabeth Warren previously urged the FTC to closely scrutinize the deal to prevent reduced competition and higher prices.