Financial Newsletter

Eli Lilly Sues Over Sale of Generic Weight Loss Drug

Eli Lilly has filed lawsuits against three medical spa centers and online suppliers, alleging they are selling products claiming to contain tirzepatide, including dissolvable tablet forms. Tirzepatide is the active ingredient in Eli Lilly’s popular weight loss drug, Zepbound. The lawsuits target Pivotal Peptides, MangoRx, and Genesis Lifestyle Medicine of Nevada. This marks the first legal action taken since the FDA recently removed tirzepatide from its shortage list earlier this month. Eli Lilly has stated that the decision to sue was made independently of the FDA’s actions regarding the shortage classification.

Microsoft Empowers Customers to Build Autonomous AI Agents

Tech giant Microsoft announced it will allow customers to create autonomous AI agents starting this November, marking another step in leveraging cutting-edge technology. The company defines autonomous agents as “AI-driven applications” capable of handling customer inquiries, identifying sales leads, and managing inventory—all with minimal human intervention, distinguishing them from traditional chatbots. Beginning in November, Microsoft clients will have access to Copilot Studio to create autonomous agents and will be provided with a public preview. The platform utilizes several AI models developed in-house as well as AI models created by OpenAI for the agents.

Boeing Proposes $1 Billion in Labor Contract Costs Over Four Years

Analysts report that Boeing anticipates over $1 billion in wage-related expenses due to a proposed labor contract. After more than a month of strikes, approximately 33,000 workers will vote on the contract proposal on the 23rd. The work stoppage halted the production of several aircraft models, including the best-selling 737 MAX narrow-body jet. The latest contract proposal announced by the company on the 19th includes a 35% wage increase over four years, a $7,000 bonus, reinstatement of incentive programs, and increased company contributions to workers’ 401(k) retirement plans, including a one-time $5,000 contribution plus a potential match of up to 12%.

Disney Appoints New Chairman Ahead of CEO Transition

Disney has announced the appointment of James Gorman to succeed Mark Parker as the company’s next chairman, effective January. This move lays the groundwork for the successor to current CEO Bob Iger, whose replacement is expected to be nominated in early 2026. Gorman joined Disney’s board less than a year ago and was appointed chair of the succession planning committee in August. Following Parker’s tenure as chairman of the board after stepping down from his role at Nike, Gorman will continue to lead the committee. Initially, Disney aimed to announce Iger’s successor in 2025, but sources indicate that pushing the date to early 2026 allows the board more time to conduct thorough due diligence on both internal and external candidates.