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SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 6-K

Report of Foreign Issuer Pursuant to Rule 13a-16 or 15d-16

of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

6 February 2003

 

NOVO NORDISK A/S


(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)

Novo Allé
DK- 2880, Bagsvaerd
Denmark


(Address of principal executive offices)

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant files or will file annual reports under cover of Form 20-F or Form 40-F

     
Form 20-F   [X]   Form 40-F   [   ]

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant by furnishing the information contained in this Form is also thereby furnishing the information to the Commission pursuant to Rule 12g3-2(b) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.

     
Yes   [   ]   No   [X]

If “Yes” is marked, indicate below the file number assigned to the registrant in connection with Rule 12g-32(b):82-                

 


TABLE OF CONTENTS

SIGNATURES
Financial statement 2002
Novo Nordisk — Financial statement 2002*
Performance 2002
Appendix 1
Appendix 2
Appendix 3
Appendix 4
Appendix 5
Appendix 6
Appendix 7


Table of Contents

SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf of the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

     
Date:  6 February 2003   NOVO NORDISK A/S
 
 

Lars Rebien Sørensen,
President and Chief Executive Officer

 


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(SALES GRAPH)

Stock Exchange Announcement
Financial statement 2002

6 February 2003

Novo Nordisk expects net profit to grow towards 10% in 2003

  Sales in local currencies increased by 11% compared to 2001. Measured in Danish kroner sales increased by 6% to DKK 25,187 million in 2002. The performance in local currencies per therapy area was as follows:

    Diabetes care sales increased by 11%.
 
    Haemostasis management sales increased by 22%.
 
    Growth hormone therapy sales increased by 4%.
 
    Hormone replacement therapy sales decreased by 5%.

  Operating profit increased by 7% to DKK 5,979 million in 2002 and net profit increased by 6% to DKK 4,095 million. Fully diluted earnings per share increased by 6% to DKK 11.72 in 2002 from DKK 11.10 in 2001.
 
  Lars Rebien Sørensen, president & CEO, said, “2002 has in all respects been a very challenging year for Novo Nordisk. We have responded to the challenges and are now pleased to say that we have met the revised target set in April, despite a continued negative development in the most important currencies. Over the past year we have sharpened our focus and skills, so the company is now in a better shape to face the challenges ahead.”
 
  At the Annual General Meeting on 25 March 2003 the Board of Directors will propose a 7% increase in dividend to DKK 3.60 per share of DKK 2, corresponding to a pay-out ratio of 30.4%.
 
  For 2003 growth in operating profit measured in local currencies is expected to be close to 20%. However, measured in Danish kroner operating profit will grow towards 5%, reflecting a negative currency impact of around 15 percentage points on operating profit if the currency exchange rates remain at the current level throughout the full year of 2003.
 
  Net profit in 2003 is expected to grow towards 10%. Apart from growth in operating profit this reflects the expected significant income from the hedging of the exposure in major currencies for 2003 and expectations for a lower income tax rate compared to 2002.
                 
Stock Exchange Announcement No 2/2003
      Page 1 of 18
 
Novo Nordisk A/S   Novo Allé   Telephone:   Internet:   CVR Number:
Investor Relations   2880 Bagsvaerd
Denmark
  +45 4444 8888
Telefax:
  www.novonordisk.com   24256790
        +45 4443 6633        


Table of Contents

Novo Nordisk — Financial statement 2002*

The accounting policies applied by Novo Nordisk are in accordance with the Danish Financial Statement Act and the accounting regulations for companies listed on the Copenhagen Stock Exchange. The accounting policies are unchanged from 2001.

(Amounts in DKK million except number of employees, earnings per share and number of shares outstanding.)

                                                 
                                            %change
                                            2001 to
    2002   2001   2000   1999   1998   2002
   
 
 
 
 
 
Net turnover**
    25,187       23,776       20,811       16,423       13,647       6 %
Gross profit
    18,554       17,797       15,767       12,196       9,896       4 %
Gross margin
    73.7 %     74.9 %     75.8 %     74.3 %     72.5 %        
Sales and distribution costs
    7,479       7,215       6,254       4,812       4,212       4 %
Percent of sales
    29.7 %     30.3 %     30.1 %     29.3 %     30.9 %        
Research and development costs
    4,139       3,970       3,390       2,748       2,795       4 %
Percent of sales
    16.4 %     16.7 %     16.3 %     16.7 %     20.5 %        
Administration costs
    1,951       1,865       1,878       1,721       1,397       5 %
Percent of sales
    7.7 %     7.8 %     9.0 %     10.5 %     10.2 %        
Licence fees and other operating income
    994       867       571       962       1,441       15 %
Operating profit
    5,979       5,614       4,816       3,527       2,933       7 %
Operating margin
    23.7 %     23.6 %     23.1 %     21.5 %     21.5 %        
Net financials
    321       416       24       (178 )     243       (23 %)
Profit before tax
    6,300       6,030       4,840       3,349       3,176       4 %
Net profit
    4,095       3,865       3,087       2,001       2,016       6 %
Depreciation and amortisation
    1,332       1,081       1,038       943       986       23 %
Capital expenditure, net**
    4,011       3,846       2,141       1,265       1,648       4 %
Free cash flow
    497       186       2,712       1,533       706       167 %
Shareholders’ funds
    22,928       20,137       16,981       15,876       15,776       14 %
Total assets
    31,496       28,905       24,920       23,082       22,085       9 %
Equity ratio
    72.8 %     69.7 %     68.1 %     68.8 %     71.4 %        
Average number of full-time employees
    17,073       14,771       12,698       11,822       11,349       16 %
Diluted earnings per share (in DKK)
    11.72       11.10       8.82       5.59       5.43       6 %
Average number of A and B shares outstanding (million) — diluted
    349.3       348.2       350.2       357.9       371.0          


*   Financial statements on a quarterly basis in DKK and EUR are provided in Appendices 1 and 2. A detailed breakdown of turnover by therapeutic and geographical areas is provided in Appendix 3. Furthermore consolidated profit and loss account, consolidated balance sheet, consolidated cash flow and financial resources, and consolidated statement of changes in shareholder’s funds are provided in Appendices 4-7
 
**   For 2002 net capital expenditure includes investment in fixed assets in Biobrás, Brazil of DKK 104 million.
                 
Stock Exchange Announcement No 2/2003
      Page 2 of 18
 
Novo Nordisk A/S   Novo Allé   Telephone:   Internet:   CVR Number:
Investor Relations   2880 Bagsvaerd
Denmark
  +45 4444 8888
Telefax:
  www.novonordisk.com   24256790
        +45 4443 6633        


Table of Contents

Performance 2002

Novo Nordisk’s operating profit was DKK 5,979 million in 2002, 7% higher than in 2001, thereby meeting out revised target of growing operating profit by 5–10% set in April 2002. The growth is based on 6% growth in sales, 6% growth in total costs excluding financial costs and tax, and 15% growth in licence fees and other operating income.

Net financials were DKK 321 million compared to DKK 416 million in 2001. The tax rate for the period was 1 percentage point lower than in 2001, hence net profit increased by 6% to DKK 4,095 million.

SALES

Sales in local currencies increased by 11% compared to 2001. Measured in Danish kroner, sales increased by 6% to DKK 25,187 million in 2002.

(SALES GRAPH)

In 2002 growth was primarily driven by sales within diabetes care and haemostasis management and geographically by sales in International Operations (countries outside Europe, North America and Japan & Oceania), North America and Europe.

Diabetes care

Sales of diabetes care products grew by 11% in local currencies compared to 2001. Measured in Danish kroner sales increased by 6% to DKK 17,665 million in 2002.

Insulin and delivery systems

Sales of insulin and delivery systems increased by 10% in local currencies compared to 2001. Measured in Danish kroner sales increased by 5% in 2002. Growth was realised in International Operations, North America and Europe, whereas sales in Japan & Oceania decreased slightly. Novo Nordisk’s sales of the insulin analogue portfolio increased to DKK 1,198 million (+160%) in 2002, and Novo Nordisk’s analogue market share continued to increase in 2002.

Europe

Sales development for insulin and delivery systems in 2002 was negatively influenced by some wholesalers in Europe stockpiling insulin products towards the end of 2001, with a subsequent de-stocking occurring in the first quarter of 2002. This stock movement combined with increasing parallel trade and the divesture of a non-core business are the main reasons for the 3% sales growth in Danish kroner compared to 2001. Adjusted for the

                 
Stock Exchange Announcement No 2/2003
      Page 3 of 18
 
Novo Nordisk A/S   Novo Allé   Telephone:   Internet:   CVR Number:
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Denmark
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wholesalers de-stocking in the first quarter and the divesture of non-core business, sales of insulin and delivery systems increased by 6%.

Novo Nordisk’s market position has been strengthened by the launch of NovoMix® 30 in 13 countries and the launch of FlexPen® in 15 countries. Together with NovoRapid® these products have been key in supporting the market share development in Europe throughout 2002.

North America

In North America sales of insulin and delivery systems increased by 12% in local currencies compared to 2001, whereas measured in Danish kroner sales increased by 6%.

This development was primarily driven by sales of NovoLog® (the US brand name for NovoRapid®), but was also supported by the launches in the second half of 2002 of the dual-release insulin analogue NovoLog® Mix 70/30 and the disposable insulin delivery device InnoLet®.

Novo Nordisk has now launched all approved insulin analogues and supported by innovative devices Novo Nordisk has continued the increase in market share in the US in 2002.

Japan & Oceania

Sales in local currencies of insulin and delivery systems in the Japan & Oceania region increased by 4%, whereas sales in local currencies in Japan increased by 3%, compared to 2001. Reflecting an 8% depreciation on average of Japanese yen versus Danish kroner for 2002, sales in Japan measured in Danish kroner decreased by 5%, also reflecting the government-mandated reduction in reimbursement prices in April 2002 and increased competition.

NovoRapid® was launched in Japan in the FlexPen® device in April 2002 and this combination has been very well received in the market. NovoMix® 30 is expected to be launched in Japan towards the end of 2003.

International Operations

Sales of insulin and delivery systems within International Operations increased by 31% in local currencies compared to 2001. The acquisition of the Brazilian pharmaceutical company Biobrás at the end of January 2002 contributed to growth. Sales growth was significantly impacted by a negative currency environment, especially for the Argentinean peso (ARS), Brazilian real (BRL) and South African rand (ZAR). Growth measured in Danish kroner was 21%.

NovoRapid® was launched in China in the fourth quarter of 2002, bringing the total number of countries in International Operations, in which NovoRapid® has been launched, to above 15. Novo Nordisk will continue the roll-out of NovoMix® 30 within International Operations in 2003.

Oral antidiabetic products (OAD)

Sales of OAD amounted to DKK 1,631 million, an increase of 16% compared to 2001 or 22% in local currencies.

In Europe sales growth was driven by a continued market penetration of NovoNorm®. Sales growth for North America was positively affected by correction of rebates to a Managed Care organisation recorded in the fourth quarter of 2001. Within International

                 
Stock Exchange Announcement No 2/2003
      Page 4 of 18
 
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Denmark
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Operations sales growth was partly driven by Glucoformin® (metformin), which has been included in Novo Nordisk’s portfolio of products in Brazil via the acquisition of Biobrás.

Haemostasis management

Sales within haemostasis management (NovoSeven®) increased by 22% in local currencies compared to 2001. Measured in Danish kroner sales increased by 17% to DKK 3,621 million in 2002.

Sales growth in 2002 for NovoSeven® was primarily realised in North America, followed by Europe, International Operations and Japan & Oceania.

Several factors contributed to the sales growth of NovoSeven® in 2002. The largest segment for NovoSeven® remains the use for congenital bleeding disorders, and this segment continues to deliver the predominant part of growth in sales. In terms of areas of use, NovoSeven® has traditionally been used in connection with acute bleeding episodes, which is still the largest area and driver of growth. However usage of NovoSeven® in connection with elective surgery has been increasing over the past years, and during 2002 this area also contributed to growth.

In addition, the increased awareness of the use of NovoSeven® in connection with acquired haemophilia has led to a greater use for this patient group. Finally, sales are also perceived to have been positively affected by increased investigational use of NovoSeven®.

Growth hormone therapy

In local currencies sales of human growth hormone products increased by 4% compared to 2001. Measured in Danish kroner sales decreased by 2% to DKK 2,131 million in 2002. Sales outside Japan increased by 12% measured in Danish kroner, or by 15% in local currencies, driven by the continued roll-out of the liquid growth hormone, Norditropin® SimpleXx®, in North America and Europe. About 60% of sales are now realised outside Japan.

Sales in Japan measured in Danish kroner decreased by 16% partly due to the 8% depreciation on average of Japanese yen versus Danish kroner. Measured in local currency, sales in Japan decreased by 8%, reflecting the government-mandated reduction in reimbursement prices and general, negative market growth.

Hormone replacement therapy

Sales of hormone replacement therapy products decreased by 5% in local currencies compared to 2001. Measured in Danish kroner sales decreased by 6% to DKK 1,342 million in 2002. This is primarily due to a decrease in sales in Europe, reflecting increased parallel trading and lower overall demand for treatment with hormone replacement products. The overall market demand was negatively influenced by a recently published US study of another company’s product. Novo Nordisk’s products are low-dose combination preparations containing natural oestrogen and progestin, and the relevance for the Novo Nordisk product portfolio is currently being evaluated. Outside Europe sales increased in all regions.

COSTS, LICENCE FEES AND OTHER OPERATING INCOME

Production costs of DKK 6,633 million increased by 11% in 2002, in line with the underlying growth in sales volumes. The gross margin decreased by 1.2 percentage points compared to 2001. The decrease can primarily be related to the negative development in major invoicing currencies versus Danish kroner as Novo Nordisk’s production cost base is

                 
Stock Exchange Announcement No 2/2003
      Page 5 of 18
 
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Denmark
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primarily Danish kroner denominated. In addition, the development can be attributed to recently hired employees dedicated to the new manufacturing facilities for insulin and NovoSeven®, which are in the process of validation and subsequent regulatory approval.

Total non-production related costs increased by 4% to DKK 13,569 million or a growth rate which is 2 percentage points lower than reported sales growth. This result has been achieved through the cost-containment programme initiated in April 2002.

Sales and distribution costs increased by 4% to DKK 7,479 million. This partly reflects the full-year effect of the expansion of the sales force in the US as well as the recent launch of NovoLog® Mix 70/30 and InnoLet® in the US. However, the positive sales development in International Operations has also been supported by an expansion of the sales force in markets like China and Latin America.

Research and development costs grew by 4% to DKK 4,139 million. This primarily reflects costs related to the development projects insulin detemir (long-acting insulin analogue), AERx® iDMS (pulmonary insulin) and the new indications for NovoSeven®, but also costs associated with the discontinued clinical development of NN622 (dual-acting insulin sensitiser).

Administration costs for the year amounted to DKK 1,951 million, a 5% increase compared to 2001. The increase is primarily due to restructuring costs in relation to the European organisation.

Included in total costs are depreciation and amortisation of DKK 1,332 million, up from DKK 1,081 million in 2001.

In total, licence fees and other operating income amounted to DKK 994 million in 2002 compared to DKK 867 million in 2001. In the fourth quarter of 2002 licence fees and other operating income was elevated primarily due to the transfer of Gabitril® marketing rights in the US from Abbott Laboratories to Anesta/Cephalon and a minor patent settlement related to the US market.

NET FINANCIALS AND TAX

Net financials showed a net income of DKK 321 million in 2002 compared to DKK 416 million in 2001. Novo Nordisk recorded a net foreign exchange gain of DKK 311 million, primarily relating to the hedging of the US dollar and Japanese yen, compared to a gain of DKK 202 million in 2001. The gain on foreign exchange hedging positions has in 2002 partly been counterbalanced by currency losses on non-hedged positions in various currencies primarily related to International Operations. Net interest income was DKK 68 million in 2002 compared to DKK 192 million in 2001, whereas other financial items were recorded as a net expense of DKK 58 million compared to a net income of DKK 22 million in 2001.

The effective tax rate for 2002 was 35%, down from 36% in 2001, leading to a total tax expense of DKK 2,205 million in 2002.

CAPITAL EXPENDITURE

The total net capital expenditure for property, plant and equipment in 2002 was DKK 4.0 billion, compared with DKK 3.8 billion in 2001. The investment level is slightly lower than anticipated and partly reflects lower than expected prepayments to suppliers on ongoing investment projects. The investment level includes DKK 104 million in tangible fixed assets

                 
Stock Exchange Announcement No 2/2003
      Page 6 of 18
 
Novo Nordisk A/S   Novo Allé   Telephone:   Internet:   CVR Number:
Investor Relations   2880 Bagsvaerd
Denmark
  +45 4444 8888
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related to the acquisition of the Brazilian pharmaceutical company Biobrás, which as of December 2002 is owned 100% by Novo Nordisk. The acquisition is subject to clearance by the Brazilian anti-trust authority, which is expected in the first half of 2003.

FREE CASH FLOW AND FINANCIAL RESERVES

The free cash flow for 2002 was realised at DKK 497 million up from DKK 186 million in 2001. This is slightly higher than anticipated and is related to the lower than expected investment level and an absolute reduction in trade accounts receivables.

Novo Nordisk’s financial reserves at the end of 2002 were DKK 1,234 million compared to DKK 2,287 million in 2001. In addition to the financial reserves, Novo Nordisk has undrawn committed credit facilities of close to DKK 8 billion.

SHAREHOLDERS’ FUNDS

Total shareholders’ funds were DKK 22,928 million at the end of 2002, equalling 72.8% of total assets, compared with 69.7% at 31 December 2001.

         
    DKK million
   
Shareholders’ funds at 31 December 2001
    20,137  
Net profit for the period
    4,095  
Purchase of own shares
    (386 )
Sale of own shares (employee shares)
    39  
Dividends paid
    (1,161 )
Other adjustments
    204  
 
   
 
Shareholders’ funds at 31 December 2002
    22,928  
 
   
 

Share repurchase programme and holding of own shares

Novo Nordisk has repurchased own shares worth DKK 386 million during the second half of 2002 and expects to complete the DKK 2 billion share repurchase programme announced in August 2002 before the end of 2003.

At the end of 2002 Novo Nordisk A/S and its wholly-owned affiliates owned 9,396,841 of its own B shares corresponding to 2.65% of the total share capital. The total number of shares repurchased during 2002 was 1,786,762 B shares. As of 6 February 2003, Novo Nordisk A/S’ holding of its own shares is 9,621,841 B shares.

Proposed dividend

At the Annual General Meeting on 25 March 2003, the Board of Directors will propose a dividend for 2002 of DKK 3.60 per share of DKK 2, an increase of 7% from DKK 3.35 per share in 2001, corresponding to a pay-out ratio of 30.4%. No dividend will be paid on the company’s holding of own shares.

UPDATE ON THE RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT PORTFOLIO

Development — diabetes care

A glucagon antagonist, NN 2501, has entered clinical phase 1 as an orally active agent for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. Glucagon receptor antagonists have the potential to be used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes due to the ability to inhibit excessive hepatic glucose production.

                 
Stock Exchange Announcement No 2/2003
      Page 7 of 18
 
Novo Nordisk A/S   Novo Allé   Telephone:   Internet:   CVR Number:
Investor Relations   2880 Bagsvaerd
Denmark
  +45 4444 8888
Telefax:
  www.novonordisk.com   24256790
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Novo Nordisk has decided not to pursue further development of the suspended project NN622. The decision has been taken after having performed a renewed benefit/risk assessment of the compound. The analysis included both data from the terminated clinical phase 3 studies and further animal tumour mechanism studies that turned out not to be conclusive.

The analysis of the clinical phase 2 data for balaglitazone (NN2344) has now been completed and Novo Nordisk has decided to progress the development of the compound.

Development — haemostasis management

Novo Nordisk envisions that NovoSeven® has the potential to become a general haemostatic agent. To support this ambition, the company has initiated several clinical studies within the areas of bleeding in emergency situations and for elective surgery — referred to as the NovoSeven® expansion programme. In 2003 Novo Nordisk expects to report from three of these studies, namely studies involving cirrhotic patients undergoing liver resection, severely traumatised patients and patients undergoing orthotopic liver transplantation.

A project focused on using Active Site Inhibited Seven (ASIS) for the treatment of Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) is currently in clinical phase 2 development. ASIS is an inactivated form of recombinant Factor VIIa (NovoSeven®), which has proven to work in animal models of several diseases, including ARDS which is a condition associated with a high mortality rate.

Development — growth hormone therapy

A project focused on using growth hormone for treating complicated fractures has entered clinical phase 2 development.

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

Novo Nordisk is in general in compliance with the codes of good corporate governance designated by the Copenhagen Stock Exchange, the New York Stock Exchange and the London Stock Exchange.

Among several initiatives Novo Nordisk has decided to provide full disclosure of the remuneration and shareholdings of both the Board of Directors and Executive Management. In addition, a self-evaluation process of both the Board of Directors and Executive Management has been implemented. Further initiatives and an extensive review of the Novo Nordisk approach to Corporate Governance are included in the Annual Review, Annual Financial Report and Sustainability Report 2002, which will be available on the Novo Nordisk website www.novonordisk.com on 7 February 2003. Insight into the Novo Nordisk’s approach to Corporate Governance will also be published as a separate item (Corporate Governance) on the Novo Nordisk website.

OUTLOOK 2003

The strong demand for insulin products in general and the continued market penetration of the Novo Nordisk insulin analogue portfolio, combined with the expectation of increasing NovoSeven® sales, underpins Novo Nordisk’s expectations of a double-digit sales growth in local currencies for 2003. However, given the significant lower present level for Novo Nordisk’s major currencies the sales growth measured in Danish kroner will be negatively impacted by approximately 8 percentage points. Measured in Danish kroner sales are expected to increase by more than 5%.

                 
Stock Exchange Announcement No 2/2003
      Page 8 of 18
 
Novo Nordisk A/S   Novo Allé   Telephone:   Internet:   CVR Number:
Investor Relations   2880 Bagsvaerd
Denmark
  +45 4444 8888
Telefax:
  www.novonordisk.com   24256790
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For 2003 growth in operating profit measured in local currencies is expected to be close to 20%. However, measured in Danish kroner operating profit will grow towards 5%, reflecting a negative currency impact of around 15 percentage points on operating profit if the present currency exchange rates remain at the current level throughout the full year of 2003.

The expectations for growth assume that licence fees and other operating income will be realised at a level similar to the DKK 1 billion realised in 2002. For 2003 this includes a significant income related to the settlement of a patent dispute with Aventis in January 2001. As a major proportion of this non-recurring income is expected to be realised in the final quarter of the year, the operating profit growth for this quarter will be above average.

As Novo Nordisk has hedged expected cash flows for 2003 in relation to USD, JPY and GBP, the negative influence from the depreciation of those main currencies versus DKK on operating profit will be offset by currency hedging gains included in net financials. Net financial income is expected at the level of DKK 600 million for the year.

For 2003 Novo Nordisk expects the tax rate to be 34%, 1 percentage point lower than the tax rate realised in 2002.

Net profit in 2003 is expected to grow towards 10%. Apart from growth in operating profit this reflects the expected significant income from the hedging of the exposure in major currencies for 2003 and expectations for a lower income tax rate compared to 2002.

Novo Nordisk plans to invest DKK 3.5 billion in fixed assets in 2003, and depreciation and amortisation for 2003 are expected to be realised at the level of DKK 1.5 billion.

Given the lower anticipated capacity expenditure level for 2003 free cash flow is expected to exceed the free cash flow realised in 2002.

All of the above expectations are provided that currency exchange rates remain at the current level for the rest of 2003. All other things being equal, a 5% movement in USD, JPY and GBP rates is estimated to have an annual impact on operating profit of DKK 160 million, DKK 130 million and DKK 75 million, respectively.

SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

‘Producing more with less’ is one of the main goals in Novo Nordisk’s environmental management system. Eco-productivity indices (EPIs) are indicators for how effectively environmental pressures are decoupled from economic output on two parameters: water and energy. In 2002, the target was an efficiency increase of 5% for water and 4% for energy. Through consistent efforts, these targets were exceeded, with improvements of 16 percentage points and 15 percentage points, respectively, and subsequent cost savings.

Novo Nordisk pursues a number of initiatives to effectively combat the pandemic growth of diabetes. A recent update from the World Health Organization provides the global overview; it assesses that in 2000 there were 177 million people with diabetes, and that the figure will surge to 370 million in 2030. Through its global organisation, Novo Nordisk is implementing diabetes awareness programmes in more than 40 countries, including the United States. Following a roundtable discussion on diabetes in the European Parliament in Brussels, hosted by Novo Nordisk, diabetes has been included as a priority in the EU public health programmes for 2003.

                 
Stock Exchange Announcement No 2/2003
      Page 9 of 18
 
Novo Nordisk A/S   Novo Allé   Telephone:   Internet:   CVR Number:
Investor Relations   2880 Bagsvaerd
Denmark
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Telefax:
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        +45 4443 6633        


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In a global benchmark survey, dealing with the issue of society’s trust in companies’ behaviour, co-authored by UNEP and SustainAbility, Novo Nordisk achieved top rating among the 100 best reporters on sustainability and one of the seven most transparent and open companies in the world. Novo Nordisk was particularly commended for getting to the heart of the debate about access to medicine.

CONFERENCE CALL

At 16.30 CET today, corresponding to 10.30 am New York time, a conference call will be held. Investors will be able to listen in via a link on www.novonordisk.com, which can be found under ‘Investors — Conference call’. Presentation material for the conference call will be made available approximately one hour before on the same page.

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENT

The above sections contain forward-looking statements as the term is defined in the US Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements provide current expectations or forecasts of events such as new product introductions, product approvals and financial performance.

Such forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties and inaccurate assumptions. This may cause actual results to differ materially from expectations. Factors that may affect future results include interest rate and currency exchange rate fluctuations, delay or failure of development projects, production problems, unexpected contract breaches or terminations, government-mandated or market-driven price decreases for Novo Nordisk’s products, introduction of competing products, Novo Nordisk’s ability to successfully market both new and existing products, exposure to product liability and other lawsuits, changes in reimbursement rules and governmental laws and related interpretation thereof, unexpected growth in costs and expenses.

Risks and uncertainties are further described in reports filed by Novo Nordisk with the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) including the company’s Form 20-F, which was filed on 26 April 2002. Please also refer to the section ‘Financial Risk Factors’ in the Annual Financial Report 2002. Novo Nordisk is under no duty to update any of the forward-looking statements or to confirm such statements to actual results, unless required by law.

Bagsvaerd, 6 February 2003
The Board of Directors
Novo Nordisk A/S

 

For further information please contact:

     
Media:
 
Outside North America:
Mike Rulis
Tel (direct): (+45) 4442 3573
  Investors:
 
Outside North America:
Peter Haahr
Tel (direct): (+45) 4442 1207
 
Christian Kanstrup
Tel (direct): (+45) 4443 7801
 
Palle Holm Olesen
Tel (direct): (+45) 4442 6175
                 
Stock Exchange Announcement No 2/2003
      Page 10 of 18
 
Novo Nordisk A/S   Novo Allé   Telephone:   Internet:   CVR Number:
Investor Relations   2880 Bagsvaerd
Denmark
  +45 4444 8888
Telefax:
  www.novonordisk.com   24256790
        +45 4443 6633        


Table of Contents

     
In North America:
Susan Jackson
Tel (direct): (+1) 609 919 7776
  In North America:
Rasmus Jorgensen
Tel (direct): (+1) 212 582 3676

Further information on Novo Nordisk is available on the company’s internet homepage at the address: www.novonordisk.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

                 
Stock Exchange Announcement No 2/2003
      Page 11 of 18
 
Novo Nordisk A/S   Novo Allé   Telephone:   Internet:   CVR Number:
Investor Relations   2880 Bagsvaerd
Denmark
  +45 4444 8888
Telefax:
  www.novonordisk.com   24256790
        +45 4443 6633        


Table of Contents

The Novo Nordisk Group
Appendix 1: 2002 and 2001 — quarterly numbers in DKK

(Amounts in DKK million, except per share/ADR and number of employees)

                                                                         
    2002   2001   % change
   
 
  Q4 2001 -
    Q4   Q3   Q2   Q1   Q4   Q3   Q2   Q1   Q4 2002
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net turnover
    6,708       6,445       6,553       5,481       6,460       5,965       6,001       5,350       4 %
Gross profit
    4,855       4,755       4,870       4,074       4,929       4,375       4,447       4,046       -2 %
Gross margin
    72.4 %     73.8 %     74.3 %     74.3 %     76.3 %     73.3 %     74.1 %     75.6 %        
Sales and distribution costs
    1,850       1,827       1,953       1,849       1,918       1,823       1,770       1,704       -4 %
Percentage of net turnover
    27.6 %     28.3 %     29.8 %     33.7 %     29.7 %     30.6 %     29.5 %     31.9 %        
Research and development costs
    1,103       1,063       1,023       950       1,183       953       980       854       -7 %
Percentage of net turnover
    16.4 %     16.5 %     15.6 %     17.3 %     18.3 %     16.0 %     16.3 %     16.0 %        
Administrative expenses
    580       464       455       452       523       440       451       451       11 %
Percentage of net turnover
    8.6 %     7.2 %     6.9 %     8.2 %     8.1 %     7.4 %     7.5 %     8.4 %        
Licence fees and other operating income (net)
    283       117       167       427       179       231       136       321       58 %
 
   
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
         
Operating profit
    1,605       1,518       1,606       1,250       1,484       1,390       1,382       1,358       8 %
Operating margin
    23.9 %     23.6 %     24.5 %     22.8 %     23.0 %     23.3 %     23.0 %     25.4 %        
Net financials
    198       24       82       17       82       93       4       237       141 %
 
   
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
         
Profit before tax
    1,803       1,542       1,688       1,267       1,566       1,483       1,386       1,595       15 %
Income taxes
    631       540       591       443       558       534       499       574       13 %
Minority interests
    (5 )     1       4                                        
 
   
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
         
NET PROFIT
    1,167       1,003       1,101       824       1,008       949       887       1,021       16 %
Depreciation and amortisation
    435       302       296       299       273       270       265       273       59 %
Total shareholders’ funds
    22,928       22,000       21,153       19,782       20,137       18,788       17,727       16,942       14 %
Total assets
    31,496       32,101       30,520       28,674       28,905       28,774       27,321       26,228       9 %
Equity ratio
    72.8 %     68.5 %     69.3 %     69.0 %     69.7 %     65.3 %     64.9 %     64.6 %        
Full-time employees at the end of the period
    18,005       18,041       17,925       17,561       16,141       16,074       15,410       14,473       12 %
Earnings per share/ADR (in DKK)
    3.37       2.89       3.17       2.38       2.91       2.75       2.57       2.95       16 %
Earnings per share/ADR diluted (in DKK)
    3.35       2.87       3.15       2.36       2.89       2.73       2.55       2.93       16 %
Average number of shares*
outstanding (million) — basic EPS
    346.2       347.0       346.8       346.7       345.8       345.7       345.7       345.6       0 %
Average number of shares*
outstanding (million) — diluted EPS
    348.5       349.4       349.4       349.8       348.4       348.1       348.1       348.1       0 %


*   In accordance with the company’s accounting policies, earnings per share/ADR of a nominal value of DKK 2 for Q4 2002 have been calculated based on an average number of shares of 346,187,402. Diluted earnings per share/ADR, which include options on Novo Nordisk’s own shares with an exercise price below current market value, have been based on an average number of shares of 348,523,858.
                 
Stock Exchange Announcement No 2/2003
      Page 12 of 18
 
Novo Nordisk A/S   Novo Allé   Telephone:   Internet:   CVR Number:
Investor Relations   2880 Bagsvaerd
Denmark
  +45 4444 8888
Telefax:
  www.novonordisk.com   24256790
        +45 4443 6633        


Table of Contents

The Novo Nordisk Group
Appendix 2: 2002 and 2001 — quarterly numbers in EUR

(Amounts in EUR million, except per share/ADR and number of employees)

                                                                         
    2002   2001   % change
   
 
  Q4 2001 -
    Q4   Q3   Q2   Q1   Q4   Q3   Q2   Q1   Q4 2002
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net turnover
    904       868       883       738       870       803       808       721       4 %
Gross profit
    654       640       656       549       664       589       599       545       -2 %
Gross margin
    72.4 %     73.8 %     74.3 %     74.3 %     76.3 %     73.3 %     74.1 %     75.6 %        
Sales and distribution costs
    249       246       263       249       258       246       238       230       -4 %
Percentage of net turnover
    27.6 %     28.3 %     29.8 %     33.7 %     29.7 %     30.6 %     29.5 %     31.9 %        
Research and development costs
    149       143       138       128       159       128       132       115       -7 %
Percentage of net turnover
    16.4 %     16.5 %     15.6 %     17.3 %     18.3 %     16.0 %     16.3 %     16.0 %        
Administrative expenses
    78       63       61       62       71       59       61       60       11 %
Percentage of net turnover
    8.6 %     7.2 %     6.9 %     8.2 %     8.1 %     7.4 %     7.5 %     8.4 %        
Licence fees and other operating income (net)
    38       16       22       58       24       31       18       43       58 %
 
   
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
         
Operating profit
    216       204       216       168       200       187       186       183       8 %
Operating margin
    23.9 %     23.6 %     24.5 %     22.8 %     23.0 %     23.3 %     23.0 %     25.4 %        
Net financials
    27       4       11       3       11       13       1       32       141 %
 
   
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
         
Profit before tax
    243       208       227       171       211       200       187       215       15 %
Income taxes
    85       73       80       60       75       72       68       77       13 %
Minority interests
    (1 )           1                                      
 
   
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
         
NET PROFIT
    157       135       148       111       136       128       119       138       16 %
Depreciation and amortisation
    59       41       40       40       37       36       36       37       59 %
Total shareholders’ funds
    3,088       2,963       2,849       2,664       2,712       2,531       2,388       2,282       14 %
Total assets
    4,242       4,324       4,111       3,862       3,893       3,876       3,680       3,533       9 %
Equity ratio
    72.8 %     68.5 %     69.3 %     69.0 %     69.7 %     65.3 %     64.9 %     64.6 %        
Full-time employees at the end of the period
    18,005       18,041       17,925       17,561       16,141       16,074       15,410       14,473       12 %
Earnings per share/ADR (in EUR)
    0.45       0.39       0.43       0.32       0.39       0.37       0.35       0.40       16 %
Earnings per share/ADR diluted (in EUR)
    0.45       0.39       0.42       0.32       0.39       0.37       0.34       0.39       16 %
Average number of shares*
outstanding (million) — basic EPS
    346.2       347.0       346.8       346.7       345.8       345.7       345.7       345.6       0 %
Average number of shares*
outstanding (million) — diluted EPS
    348.5       349.4       349.4       349.8       348.4       348.1       348.1       348.1       0 %


Translated for convenience at the 31 December 2002 exchange rate of EUR 1.00 = DKK 7.4243
 
*   In accordance with the company’s accounting policies, earnings per share/ADR of a nominal value of DKK 2 for Q4 2002 have been calculated based on an average number of shares of 346,187,402. Diluted earnings per share/ADR, which include options on Novo Nordisk’s own shares with an exercise price below current market value, have been based on an average number of shares of 348,523,858.
                 
Stock Exchange Announcement No 2/2003
      Page 13 of 18
 
Novo Nordisk A/S   Novo Allé   Telephone:   Internet:   CVR Number:
Investor Relations   2880 Bagsvaerd
Denmark
  +45 4444 8888
Telefax:
  www.novonordisk.com   24256790
        +45 4443 6633        


Table of Contents

The Novo Nordisk Group
Appendix 3: Net turnover by therapy area and geographical area

(Amounts in DKK million)

                                                                           
      2002   2001   % change
     
 
  Q4 2001 -
      Q4   Q3   Q2   Q1   Q4   Q3   Q2   Q1   Q4 2002
     
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net turnover total
    6,708       6,445       6,553       5,481       6,460       5,965       6,001       5,350       4 %
Net turnover by therapy area
                                                                       
 
Diabetes Care
    4,698       4,555       4,578       3,834       4,476       4,210       4,184       3,754       5 %
 
Haemostasis management
    986       909       926       800       843       754       769       730       17 %
 
Growth hormone therapy
    578       555       548       450       626       527       554       457       -8 %
 
Hormone replacement therapy
    335       323       349       335       393       350       365       327       -15 %
 
Other
    111       103       152       62       122       124       129       82       -9 %
Net turnover by geographical area*
                                                                       
 
Europe
    2,886       2,780       2,808       2,406       2,945       2,578       2,620       2,410       -2 %
 
North America
    1,504       1,557       1,498       1,354       1,331       1,345       1,385       1,216       13 %
 
Japan & Oceania
    1,190       1,051       1,119       879       1,308       1,111       1,163       916       -9 %
 
International Operations
    1,128       1,057       1,128       842       876       931       833       808       29 %

(Amounts in EUR million)

                                                                           
      2002   2001   % change
     
 
  Q4 2001 -
      Q4   Q3   Q2   Q1   Q4   Q3   Q2   Q1   Q4 2002
     
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net turnover total
    904       868       883       738       870       803       808       721       4 %
Net turnover by therapy area
                                                                       
 
Diabetes Care
    633       614       617       516       603       567       564       506       5 %
 
Haemostasis management
    133       122       125       108       114       102       104       98       17 %
 
Growth hormone therapy
    78       75       74       61       84       71       75       62       -8 %
 
Hormone replacement therapy
    45       44       47       45       53       47       49       44       -15 %
 
Other
    15       13       20       8       16       16       16       11       -9 %
Net turnover by geographical area*
                                                                       
 
Europe
    389       374       378       324       397       347       353       325       -2 %
 
North America
    203       210       202       182       179       181       187       164       13 %
 
Japan & Oceania
    160       142       151       118       176       150       157       123       -9 %
 
International Operations
    152       142       152       114       118       125       111       109       29 %

Translated for convenience at the 31 December 2002 exchange rate of EUR 1.00 = DKK 7.4243

  Europe: EU, EFTA, Poland, Czech Republic, Slovenia, Hungary and the Baltic countries
North America: USA and Canada
Japan & Oceania: Japan, Australia and New Zealand
International Operations: All other countries
     
Stock Exchange Announcement No 2/2003   Page 14 of 18
                 
Novo Nordisk A/S   Novo Allé   Telephone:   Internet:   CVR Number:
Investor Relations   2880 Bagsvaerd
Denmark
  +45 4444 8888
Telefax:
  www.novonordisk.com   24256790
        +45 4443 6633        

 


Table of Contents

The Novo Nordisk Group
Appendix 4: Consolidated profit and loss account

                         
    2002   2001   2000
    DKK million   DKK million   DKK million
   
 
 
Net turnover
    25,187       23,776       20,811  
Production costs
    6,633       5,979       5,044  
 
   
     
     
 
Gross profit
    18,554       17,797       15,767  
Sales and distribution costs
    7,479       7,215       6,254  
Research and development costs
    4,139       3,970       3,390  
Administrative expenses
    1,951       1,865       1,878  
Licence fees and other operating income (net)
    994       867       571  
 
   
     
     
 
Operating profit
    5,979       5,614       4,816  
Share of profit in associated companies
    27       49       3  
Financial income
    475       499       382  
Financial expenses
    181       132       361  
 
   
     
     
 
Profit before taxation
    6,300       6,030       4,840  
Income taxes
    2,205       2,165       1,753  
 
   
     
     
 
NET PROFIT
    4,095       3,865       3,087  
 
   
     
     
 
Earnings per share (DKK)
    11.81       11.18       8.84  
Earnings per share diluted (DKK)
    11.72       11.10       8.82  
     
Stock Exchange Announcement No 2/2003   Page 15 of 18
                 
Novo Nordisk A/S   Novo Allé   Telephone:   Internet:   CVR Number:
Investor Relations   2880 Bagsvaerd
Denmark
  +45 4444 8888
Telefax:
  www.novonordisk.com   24256790
        +45 4443 6633        

 


Table of Contents

The Novo Nordisk Group
Appendix 5: Consolidated balance sheet

                 
    31 Dec 2002   31 Dec 2001
    DKK million   DKK million
   
 
ASSETS
               
Intangible fixed assets
    240       14  
Tangible fixed assets
    16,205       13,626  
Fixed asset investments
    1,279       1,401  
 
   
     
 
TOTAL FIXED ASSETS
    17,724       15,041  
 
   
     
 
Stocks
    5,919       4,760  
Trade debtors
    3,811       3,882  
Tax receivable
    431       399  
Other debtors
    1,873       1,761  
 
   
     
 
Debtors
    6,115       6,042  
Current asset investments
    315       1,402  
Cash at bank and in hand
    1,423       1,660  
 
   
     
 
TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS
    13,772       13,864  
 
   
     
 
TOTAL ASSETS
    31,496       28,905  
 
   
     
 
SHAREHOLDERS’ FUNDS AND LIABILITIES
               
Share capital
    709       709  
Share premium account
    2,565       2,565  
Retained earnings
    19,048       16,461  
Other comprehensive income
    606       402  
 
   
     
 
TOTAL SHAREHOLDERS’ FUNDS
    22,928       20,137  
 
   
     
 
Provision for deferred tax (net)
    1,122       1,358  
Other provisions
    653       541  
 
   
     
 
PROVISIONS
    1,775       1,899  
 
   
     
 
Banks and other credit institutions
    824       863  
 
   
     
 
Long-term debt
    824       863  
Bank loans
    564       817  
Trade creditors
    864       970  
Tax payable
    271       62  
Other creditors
    4,270       4,157  
 
   
     
 
Short-term liabilities
    5,969       6,006  
 
   
     
 
TOTAL LONG-TERM DEBT AND SHORT-TERM LIABILITIES
    6,793       6,869  
 
   
     
 
TOTAL SHAREHOLDERS’ FUNDS AND LIABILITIES
    31,496       28,905  
 
   
     
 
     
Stock Exchange Announcement No 2/2003   Page 16 of 18
                 
Novo Nordisk A/S   Novo Allé   Telephone:   Internet:   CVR Number:
Investor Relations   2880 Bagsvaerd
Denmark
  +45 4444 8888
Telefax:
  www.novonordisk.com   24256790
        +45 4443 6633        

 


Table of Contents

The Novo Nordisk Group
Appendix 6: Consolidated cash flow and financial resources

                           
      2002   2001   2000
      DKK million   DKK million   DKK million
     
 
 
Net profit
    4,095       3,865       3,087  
Reversals with no effect on cash flow:
                       
 
Income taxes
    2,205       2,165       1,753  
 
Depreciation, amortisation and write-down
    1,332       1,081       1,038  
 
Interest receivable and interest payable
    (68 )     (192 )     (184 )
 
Other reversals with no effect on cash flow
    161       477       240  
Income taxes paid
    (2,266 )     (1,900 )     (1,739 )
Interest received and interest paid (net)
    134       280       154  
 
   
     
     
 
Cash flow before change in working capital
    5,593       5,776       4,349  
Change in working capital:
                       
(Increase)/decrease in trade debtors and other debtors
    312       (1,127 )     527  
(Increase)/decrease in stocks
    (1,131 )     (847 )     (377 )
Increase/(decrease) in trade creditors and other creditors
    107       518       759  
 
   
     
     
 
Cash flow from operating activities
    4,881       4,320       5,258  
Investments:
                       
Divestment of subsidiaries
    52             (427 )
Acquisition of subsidiaries
    (448 )            
Sale of fixed asset investments
          17       85  
Purchase of intangible fixed assets and fixed asset investments
    (81 )     (305 )     (63 )
Sale of tangible fixed assets
    50       97       225  
Purchase of tangible fixed assets
    (3,957 )     (3,943 )     (2,366 )
 
   
     
     
 
Cash flow from investing activities
    (4,384 )     (4,134 )     (2,546 )
 
   
     
     
 
FREE CASH FLOW
    497       186       2,712  
 
   
     
     
 
Financing:
                       
Net change in long-term loans
    (18 )     (39 )     4  
Purchase of own shares
    (386 )     (24 )     (2,472 )
Sale of own shares
    39       34       189  
Demerger of Novozymes
                818  
Dividends paid
    (1,161 )     (916 )     (691 )
 
   
     
     
 
Cash flow from financing activities
    (1,526 )     (945 )     (2,152 )
 
   
     
     
 
NET CASH FLOW
    (1,029 )     (759 )     560  
 
   
     
     
 
Unrealised gain/(loss) on exchange rates and current asset investments included in cash and cash equivalents
    (24 )     (27 )     18  
 
   
     
     
 
Net change in cash and cash equivalents
    (1,053 )     (786 )     578  
Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the year
    2,287       3,073       2,495  
 
   
     
     
 
Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the year
    1,234       2,287       3,073  
Undrawn committed credit facilities
    7,961       5,046       4,812  
 
   
     
     
 
FINANCIAL RESOURCES AT THE END OF THE YEAR
    9,195       7,333       7,885  
 
   
     
     
 
     
Stock Exchange Announcement No 2/2003   Page 17 of 18
                 
Novo Nordisk A/S   Novo Allé   Telephone:   Internet:   CVR Number:
Investor Relations   2880 Bagsvaerd
Denmark
  +45 4444 8888
Telefax:
  www.novonordisk.com   24256790
        +45 4443 6633        

 


Table of Contents

The Novo Nordisk Group
Appendix 7: Consolidated statement of changes in shareholders’ funds

                                         
                            Other        
            Share           compre-        
            premium   Retained   hensive        
    Share capital   account   earnings   income   Total
    DKK million   DKK million   DKK million   DKK million   DKK million
   
 
 
 
 
2002
                                       
Balance at the beginning of the year
    709       2,565       16,461       402       20,137  
Net profit for the year
                    4,095               4,095  
Purchase of own shares
                    (386 )             (386 )
Sale of own shares
                    39               39  
Dividends declared
                    (1,161 )             (1,161 )
Exchange rate adjustment of investments in subsidiaries
                            (85 )     (85 )
Reversal of deferred (gain)/loss on cash flow hedges at the beginning of the year
                            (188 )     (188 )
Deferred gain/(loss) on cash flow hedges at the end of the year
                            534       534  
Other adjustments
                            (57 )     (57 )
 
   
     
     
     
     
 
Balance at the end of the year
    709       2,565       19,048       606       22,928  
 
   
     
     
     
     
 

At the end of the year proposed dividends of DKK 1,243 million is included in retained earnings. No dividend is declared on own shares.

                                         
2001
                                       
Balance at the beginning of the year
    754       2,565       13,289       373       16,981  
Net profit for the year
                    3,865               3,865  
Write-down of B share capital during the year
    (45 )             45                
Purchase of own shares
                    (24 )             (24 )
Sale of own shares
                    34               34  
Employee shares sold
                    168               168  
Dividends declared
                    (916 )             (916 )
Exchange rate adjustment of investments in subsidiaries
                            112       112  
Reversal of deferred (gain)/loss on cash flow hedges at the beginning of the year
                            (327 )     (327 )
Deferred gain/(loss) on cash flow hedges at the end of the year
                            188       188  
Other adjustments
                            56       56  
 
   
     
     
     
     
 
Balance at the end of the year
    709       2,565       16,461       402       20,137  
 
   
     
     
     
     
 

At the end of the year proposed dividends of DKK 1,161 million is included in retained earnings. No dividend is declared on own shares.

                                         
2000
                                       
Balance at the beginning of the year
    754       2,565       12,403       154       15,876  
Net profit for the year
                    3,087               3,087  
Purchase of own shares
                    (2,472 )             (2,472 )
Sale of own shares to Novozymes
                    189               189  
Value adjustment of Novozymes shares (net)
                    773               773  
Dividends declared
                    (691 )             (691 )
Exchange rate adjustment of investments in subsidiaries
                            (108 )     (108 )
Deferred gain/(loss) on cash flow hedges at the end of the year
                            327       327  
 
   
     
     
     
     
 
Balance at the end of the year
    754       2,565       13,289       373       16,981  
 
   
     
     
     
     
 

At the end of the year proposed dividends of DKK 916 million is included in retained earnings. No dividend is declared on own shares.

     
Stock Exchange Announcement No 2/2003   Page 18 of 18
                 
Novo Nordisk A/S   Novo Allé   Telephone:   Internet:   CVR Number:
Investor Relations   2880 Bagsvaerd
Denmark
  +45 4444 8888
Telefax:
  www.novonordisk.com   24256790
        +45 4443 6633