Markets, Stocks

Today’s Stocks to Watch: Novo Nordisk and UnitedHealth

August 18, 2025 OnEquity

Key Points to Watch Out For:

  • Novo Nordisk shares advance following FDA approval.
  • Soho House jumps 13% in premarket trading on privatization deal.
  • UnitedHealth rises 3% in premarket after Berkshire stake disclosure.

Novo Nordisk (NVO): FDA Approval for Wegovy

The FDA approved Wegovy for the treatment of a form of liver disease. Shares gained nearly 5.5% in Denmark. Wegovy, already known as a weight-loss drug, is now cleared for this additional indication, strengthening Novo Nordisk’s market position.

Soho House (SHCO): Move to Go Private

A group of investors, including one of the largest U.S. hotel owners, is nearing an agreement to take the company private, according to The Wall Street Journal. Shares rose 13% in premarket trading. Soho House, which operates membership-based clubs, is reportedly close to finalizing the deal.

UnitedHealth (UNH): Premarket Gains After Berkshire Disclosure

Shares of UnitedHealth climbed 3% in premarket trading, extending Friday’s rally after Berkshire Hathaway disclosed a stake in the health insurer. The move reflects positive investor sentiment toward Berkshire’s portfolio adjustments.

First Solar (FSLR) and SunRun (RUN): Solar Sector Rebound

Solar stocks advanced in premarket trading, building on Friday’s gains after updated clean energy tax credit guidance proved less restrictive than expected. Vestas Wind Systems and Ørsted also rebounded in Denmark, underscoring broad sector momentum across renewable energy companies.

Dayforce (DAY): Buyout Interest from Thoma Bravo

Shares of Dayforce surged more than 35% in premarket trading following a Bloomberg report that Thoma Bravo is in talks to acquire the HR software provider. The stock reacted strongly to news of the potential buyout negotiations.

Grand Canyon Education (LOPE): FTC Case Dismissed

The Federal Trade Commission dropped a complaint dating back to the Biden administration that accused Grand Canyon Education of falsely presenting itself as a non-profit. The dismissal effectively closes the case, removing a regulatory overhang on the company.

Palo Alto Networks (PANW): Earnings and CyberArk Acquisition

Palo Alto Networks is set to report quarterly results after the close. The cybersecurity firm also recently announced a $25 billion acquisition of CyberArk Software. The dual update highlights both earnings performance and strategic expansion in the cybersecurity sector.

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