Two former Pfizer executives who were previously linked to activist investor Starboard Value's campaign at the struggling drugmaker said they would step back from the push late Wednesday evening. Former CEO Ian Read and ex-CFO Frank D'Amelio voiced their full support for current CEO Albert Bourla and the management team.
The sharp, sudden entry of an activist investor is raising hopes that change might come to the company.
Pfizer (PFE, Financial) experienced a 2.3% increase, reaching $29.85. The rise follows news that Pfizer's CEO plans to meet next week with key leaders from activist investor Starboard Value.
The story of activist fund Starboard Value taking a $1 billion position in Pfizer is grabbing headlines the last few days. However, no good new solutions are being offered, at least according to the stories and articles that have surfaced since the stake was first mentioned. Additional cost cutting, more share repurchases, or management and board changes are unlikely to make a change for the better at Pfizer.
Ken Griffin's Citadel continues to add to its position in Pfizer.
Pfizer (PFE) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Albert Bourla reportedly is planning to meet with Starboard Value after the activist investor took a $1 billion stake in the struggling drugmaker.
Pfizer stock (NYSE: PFE) currently trades at $29 per share, 45% below its peak level of $54 seen in December 2021. In contrast, Merck stock is up 54% over this period.
Starboard will look to turn around the struggling pharma company.
Activists appear to be calling a bottom on the two stocks.
In the closing of the recent trading day, Pfizer (PFE) stood at $29.18, denoting a -0.07% change from the preceding trading day.
Pfizer CEO Albert Bourla plans to meet activist investor Starboard Value, the Financial Times reported on Tuesday, citing people familiar with the matter.
Pfizer's troubles may finally be coming to a head. Meanwhile, Hims & Hers is joining S&P SmallCap 600.