Novo Nordisk achieves financial targets in 2015

Novo Nordisk has met its financial goals in 2015 after achieving double-digit growth across a range of key metrics.

The firm's annual sales increased by 22 percent year on year to 107.9 billion Danish kroner (10.92 billion pounds), representing a rise of eight percent in local currency terms. Meanwhile, its operating profit increased by 43 percent to 49.4 billion kroner, with diluted earnings per share up by 34 percent to 13.52 kroner.

Sales of its modern and new-generation insulin products increased by 22 percent, with its Victoza brand proving a strong performer, while good momentum was seen in North America, China and other key international territories.

For 2016, sales growth is expected to be between five and nine percent in local currency terms. Its focus for the year will be the global launch of its new product Tresiba, which has demonstrated strong safety and efficacy in clinical trials.

Lars Rebien Sorensen, president and chief executive officer of Novo Nordisk, said: "We are very pleased with Novo Nordisk's performance in 2015 and the achievement of our four long-term financial targets."