Global Trends and Politics
Cigna Reaches Deal on Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk Weight Loss Drugs

Introduction to Weight Loss Drugs
Only half of health insurer Cigna’s clients currently cover the popular GLP-1 weight loss drugs Wegovy and Zepbound because of their high costs. But the company’s pharmacy benefits unit Evernorth has reached a deal with drug makers Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk which it said will bring prices down for employers and their workers.
The New Deal
"This solution is really focused towards clients that aren’t covering it today, and what it allows us to do is one, to bring it on at a reduced price for the plan sponsor, but also capping out the members’ cost at $200," per month said Harold Carter, Evernorth senior vice president of pharmacy relations. Many of Evernorth’s clients currently offer the drugs to workers with co-pays as low as $25 per month. For those who have been hesitant to cover the medications because of cost, capping employee out-of-pocket costs at $200 would amount to less than half the price consumers pay in cash without insurance if they bought the drug through Eli Lilly or Novo Nordisk’s direct-to-consumer websites.
Simplified Pre-Authorization Process
The new deal will also include a simplified pre-authorization process for the drugs, and patients will be able to access the drugs for the same price across retail pharmacies, or through Evernorth home delivery service, the company said. Those new services and discounts will also be provided for Evernorth clients already offering the weight loss drugs.
Cost Reduction
"Clients that cover weight loss today, we’re expecting that they can see, you know, up to almost 20% a reduction [in] their costs … with this updated arrangement that we’ve been able to get with Lily and Novo, " said Carter, adding that Evernorth was able to get better pricing while maintaining coverage for both drugs.
Industry Impact
Last month, CVS Caremark announced that it had struck a deal to make Novo’s Wegovy its primary weight loss drug starting in the second half of the year, which would mean coverage for Lilly’s Zepbound would no longer be preferred. Novo Nordisk would not comment on the new pharmacy benefits arrangements. But a spokesperson for Eli Lilly told CNBC, "Lilly will continue to work with those in health care, government and the industry to find creative solutions that help people with obesity access Zepbound."
Net Prices Coming Down
While Cigna would not discuss the actual discounts reached under the new Evernorth arrangement, analysts say large employers and other insurers have gotten between 30% to 50% below the drugs’ list price. While Novo’s Wegovy lists for $1,350 per month, in March the average net price for the drug was $616 according to an analysis by the Institute for Clinical and Economic Review. For Lilly’s Zepbound, the list price is roughly $1,100 per month, while the net price is $725.
Future Implications
These new arrangements by Evernorth and CVS Caremark could bring those net prices even lower for employers, just as the government is negotiating Medicare discounts for Novo Nordisk’s Ozempic and Wegovy under the Inflation Reduction Act. Those Medicare negotiated rates will take effect in 2027 — effectively making Novo Nordisk’s products the preferred drugs in the program. That could see prices come down even further, said Ben Ippolito, senior fellow in health economics at the American Enterprise Institute.
Conclusion
Evernorth’s new weight loss pricing program will begin in the second half of the year, as employers begin to make decisions about coverage for next year’s plans. This new deal is expected to make weight loss drugs more accessible to those who need them, while also reducing costs for employers and employees.
FAQs
Q: What is the new deal between Evernorth and Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk?
A: The new deal will bring prices down for employers and their workers for the popular GLP-1 weight loss drugs Wegovy and Zepbound.
Q: How much will employees have to pay for the weight loss drugs?
A: Employees will have their out-of-pocket costs capped at $200 per month.
Q: Will the new deal affect the prices of the weight loss drugs for those who already have coverage?
A: Yes, the new deal is expected to reduce costs for employers and employees who already have coverage for the weight loss drugs.
Q: When will the new pricing program begin?
A: The new pricing program will begin in the second half of the year.
Q: How will the new deal affect the industry?
A: The new deal could bring net prices even lower for employers and may lead to further price reductions in the future.
Global Trends and Politics
Canada Goose Q4 Earnings Report 2025

Introduction to Canada Goose’s Q4 Earnings
Shares of Canada Goose rose nearly 30% on Wednesday after the company reported fiscal fourth-quarter earnings that beat analysts’ estimates, though it pulled its fiscal 2026 outlook due to "macroeconomic uncertainty." The luxury retailer said it will not be providing a financial outlook for fiscal 2026 due to the uncertainty, citing "dynamic consumer spending patterns brought on by the unpredictable global trade environment."
Q4 Earnings Report
Nonetheless, Canada Goose said it "remains confident in the strength of the brand, the Company’s solid financial position, and its ability to adapt to changing conditions." Here’s what the company reported for the fiscal fourth quarter compared with what Wall Street was expecting:
- Earnings per share: 33 Canadian cents adjusted vs 23 Canadian cents expected
- Revenue: CA$384.6 million ($277.1 million), vs CA$356.4 million expected
Impact of Tariffs
On a call with investors, Canada Goose Chief Operating Officer Beth Clymer said that 75% of Canada Goose’s units are made in Canada and "virtually all" are compliant with the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement, meaning they are currently exempt from President Donald Trump’s tariffs. The remaining production, which primarily comes from Europe, is facing an increase in tariffs, but they will have "minimal financial impact," she said. CEO Dani Reiss echoed that sentiment, adding that the "vast majority" of the retailer’s products are not currently impacted by tariffs.
Company’s Confidence and History
Reiss also mentioned, "This is not the first time Canada Goose has successfully navigated uncertainty. We’ve endured challenging times before, through 2008, through Covid, and each time we’ve emerged stronger." Chief Financial Officer Neil Bowden added that tariffs are not directly material to fiscal 2026 financial plans, but the "indirect effect of these actions on the global economy and changing landscape create greater uncertainty for us," especially as the company is months away from its peak revenue periods.
Financial Performance
Canada Goose’s revenue was up 7.4% from the same period last year. Net income attributable to shareholders for the fourth quarter ended March 30 was CA$27.1 million, or 28 Canadian cents per diluted share, compared with net income attributable to shareholders of CA$5 million, or 5 Canadian cents per diluted share, in the prior-year period. The company’s adjusted earnings per share figure excluded one-time items, including costs for office transitions, joint ventures, and other investments.
Market Context
As of Tuesday’s close, the company’s shares had fallen nearly 14% year to date, hitting an all-time low last month after Barclay’s analysts downgraded the stock and cut their price target. The luxury sector as a whole has shown signs of weakness, with major players like LVMH, Burberry, and Gucci owner Kering reporting a slowdown in sales in the quarter. Canada Goose, known for its luxury parkas and puffer jackets that can retail for more than $1,000, has tried to expand into the nonwinter category by offering products like rain jackets and warm-weather clothing.
Product Expansion
Its eyewear collection, introduced in the fourth quarter, was the company’s first online product launch, featuring artificial intelligence-powered virtual try-on tools. The retailer called the launch a "key milestone" in its "product category expansion journey" and part of a larger push to strengthen the brand’s year-round relevance.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Canada Goose’s Q4 earnings report showed a positive trend despite the macroeconomic uncertainty. The company’s decision to pull its fiscal 2026 outlook reflects caution but also highlights its confidence in its brand strength and financial position. As the luxury sector navigates through challenging times, Canada Goose’s ability to adapt and expand its product lines will be crucial for its future success.
FAQs
- Q: What was the reason for Canada Goose pulling its fiscal 2026 outlook?
A: The reason was due to "macroeconomic uncertainty" and "dynamic consumer spending patterns brought on by the unpredictable global trade environment." - Q: How much of Canada Goose’s production is exempt from President Donald Trump’s tariffs?
A: 75% of Canada Goose’s units are made in Canada and are virtually all compliant with the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement, making them exempt from the tariffs. - Q: What was the highlight of Canada Goose’s Q4 earnings report?
A: The company reported earnings per share of 33 Canadian cents adjusted, beating the expected 23 Canadian cents, and revenue of CA$384.6 million, exceeding the expected CA$356.4 million. - Q: How is Canada Goose expanding its product line?
A: Canada Goose is expanding into the nonwinter category with products like rain jackets, warm-weather clothing, and has introduced an eyewear collection featuring artificial intelligence-powered virtual try-on tools. - Q: What is the current state of the luxury sector?
A: The luxury sector is showing signs of weakness, with major players reporting a slowdown in sales, but Canada Goose remains confident in its brand strength and financial position.
Global Trends and Politics
Building Bridges, Not Walls: Strategies for Fostering Employee Engagement in a Polarized Workplace

As the political landscape continues to impact workplaces, companies are facing new challenges in maintaining a cohesive and productive work environment. The rise of polarization has led to increased tensions and conflicts among employees, making it essential for organizations to develop strategies to foster engagement and promote inclusivity. In this article, we will explore the effects of polarization on workplaces and provide actionable tips for building bridges, not walls, among employees.
Understanding the Impact of Polarization on Workplaces
The current political climate has created an environment where employees are more likely to bring their personal beliefs and values into the workplace. This can lead to heated debates, conflicts, and a sense of unease among colleagues. A study by the Society for Human Resource Management found that 34% of employees reported feeling uncomfortable discussing politics at work, while 22% reported feeling uncomfortable working with colleagues who hold different political views.
The Consequences of Polarization
Polarization can have severe consequences on employee engagement, productivity, and overall well-being. When employees feel uncomfortable or excluded, they are less likely to contribute to team discussions, share ideas, or collaborate with colleagues. This can lead to a decline in innovation, creativity, and problem-solving, ultimately affecting the organization’s bottom line. Furthermore, a toxic work environment can lead to increased turnover rates, absenteeism, and decreased job satisfaction.
Strategies for Fostering Employee Engagement
So, how can organizations build bridges and foster employee engagement in a polarized workplace? Here are some strategies to consider:
Encourage Open Communication
Creating a safe and inclusive space for employees to share their thoughts and opinions is crucial. Encourage open communication by setting clear expectations, providing training on respectful dialogue, and fostering a culture of empathy and understanding. For example, companies like Google and Facebook have implemented employee resource groups, which provide a platform for employees to connect with colleagues who share similar interests and backgrounds.
Foster Inclusivity and Diversity
Promoting inclusivity and diversity is essential in building a cohesive and productive work environment. Organizations should strive to create a workforce that reflects the diversity of the communities they serve. This can be achieved by implementing diversity and inclusion training, providing resources for underrepresented groups, and promoting diversity in leadership positions. Companies like IBM and Microsoft have made significant strides in promoting diversity and inclusion, with initiatives such as mentorship programs and diversity-focused hiring practices.
Emphasize Shared Values and Goals
In a polarized workplace, it’s essential to emphasize shared values and goals that transcend personal beliefs and opinions. Organizations should clearly communicate their mission, vision, and values, and encourage employees to work towards common objectives. This can help shift the focus from individual differences to collective goals, promoting a sense of unity and purpose. For example, companies like Patagonia and REI have successfully promoted a sense of shared purpose among employees, with a focus on environmental sustainability and social responsibility.
Case Studies: Building Bridges in Practice
Several companies have successfully implemented strategies to build bridges and foster employee engagement in polarized workplaces. For example, after the 2016 US presidential election, the company Salesforce implemented a series of initiatives to promote unity and inclusivity among employees. These initiatives included diversity and inclusion training, employee resource groups, and a company-wide campaign to promote respect and empathy.
Creating a Culture of Empathy and Respect
Creating a culture of empathy and respect is crucial in building bridges among employees. Organizations should encourage employees to engage in active listening, ask questions, and seek to understand different perspectives. This can be achieved by providing training on empathy and respect, promoting diversity and inclusion, and recognizing and rewarding employees who demonstrate these values. Companies like Cisco and Dell have successfully promoted a culture of empathy and respect, with initiatives such as employee recognition programs and diversity-focused training.
Overcoming Challenges and Obstacles
Building bridges in a polarized workplace can be challenging, and organizations may face several obstacles along the way. These challenges can include resistance to change, lack of resources, and conflicting values and beliefs. To overcome these challenges, organizations should be patient, persistent, and willing to adapt to changing circumstances. It’s also essential to provide training and resources to help employees navigate difficult conversations and conflicts.
Measuring Success and Evaluating Progress
Measuring success and evaluating progress is crucial in building bridges and fostering employee engagement. Organizations should regularly conduct surveys and focus groups to gauge employee sentiment, monitor key metrics such as employee engagement and retention, and adjust their strategies accordingly. Companies like Facebook and Twitter have successfully used data and analytics to measure the effectiveness of their diversity and inclusion initiatives.
Conclusion
In conclusion, building bridges in a polarized workplace requires a strategic and multi-faceted approach. By encouraging open communication, fostering inclusivity and diversity, emphasizing shared values and goals, and creating a culture of empathy and respect, organizations can promote employee engagement and productivity. While challenges and obstacles may arise, with patience, persistence, and a willingness to adapt, companies can overcome these hurdles and create a more inclusive and cohesive work environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about building bridges in a polarized workplace:
Q: How can I promote diversity and inclusion in my workplace?
A: Promoting diversity and inclusion can be achieved by implementing diversity and inclusion training, providing resources for underrepresented groups, and promoting diversity in leadership positions.
Q: How can I encourage open communication in my workplace?
A: Encouraging open communication can be achieved by setting clear expectations, providing training on respectful dialogue, and fostering a culture of empathy and understanding.
Q: How can I measure the success of my diversity and inclusion initiatives?
A: Measuring success can be achieved by regularly conducting surveys and focus groups, monitoring key metrics such as employee engagement and retention, and adjusting strategies accordingly.
Q: What are some common challenges that organizations face when building bridges in a polarized workplace?
A: Common challenges include resistance to change, lack of resources, and conflicting values and beliefs. To overcome these challenges, organizations should be patient, persistent, and willing to adapt to changing circumstances.
Global Trends and Politics
Target Q1 2025 Earnings Report

Introduction to Target’s Earnings Report
A view of a Target store on March 5, 2025 in Novato, California.
Justin Sullivan
Target will report its fiscal first-quarter earnings Wednesday, as the Minneapolis-based cheap chic retailer tries to get back to growth.
Expected Earnings and Revenue
Here’s what Wall Street is expecting for the discounter, according to a survey of analysts:
- Earnings per share: $1.64 expected
- Revenue: $24.32 billion expected
Retailer Updates and Challenges
Target’s earnings report will follow updates from other retailers, including Walmart and Home Depot. Both of the big-box retailers reaffirmed their full-year outlooks when reporting quarterly earnings. Yet the two companies diverged with how they will manage higher costs from tariffs. Walmart warned that it will have to raise prices for customers as soon as later this month because of the duties. Home Depot, on the other hand, said it isn’t planning to hike prices.
Target’s Challenges
For Target, however, tariffs are not the only challenge. The discounter’s annual revenue has been roughly flat for four years in a row. Sales have been weaker in many of the discretionary categories that the retailer is known for, such as home decor, as consumers are selective and cautious about spending. And the company has faced backlash from shoppers — and pressure from activists — for rolling back key diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives.
Company Expectations
Target said in February that it expected "meaningful year-over-year profit pressure" in its first quarter compared with the rest of the year because of softer sales in February and uncertainty around consumer sentiment and tariffs.
The company’s expectations are low for the fiscal year, too. Target said it expected net sales to grow by around 1% and comparable sales, a metric that takes out one-time factors such as store openings and closings, to be roughly flat. Target said it expected adjusted earnings per share to range from $8.80 to $9.80 and for its operating margin rate to modestly increase compared with full-year 2024.
Conclusion
Target’s upcoming earnings report will provide insight into the company’s progress in addressing its challenges and achieving its expectations. The report will be closely watched by investors and analysts, who will be looking for signs of growth and improvement in the company’s financial performance.
FAQs
Q: What are the expected earnings per share for Target’s fiscal first quarter?
A: $1.64
Q: What is the expected revenue for Target’s fiscal first quarter?
A: $24.32 billion
Q: What are some of the challenges facing Target?
A: Tariffs, weaker sales in discretionary categories, and backlash from shoppers and activists.
Q: What are Target’s expectations for the fiscal year?
A: Net sales to grow by around 1%, comparable sales to be roughly flat, and adjusted earnings per share to range from $8.80 to $9.80.
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