A New Generation of Drugs Could Lower Heart Attack Risk for Millions

Key takeaways

A new class of drugs targeting lipoprotein(a) could revolutionize heart attack prevention, but approval depends on clear evidence of meaningful benefits.
Lululemon’s resolution with founder Chip Wilson demonstrates the importance of leadership continuity and strategic control in maintaining brand relevance.
Ford’s pivot to energy storage and batteries for AI and utilities reflects strategic adaptation aimed at market opportunities outside traditional automotive sales.
Oil prices are influenced by geopolitical tensions and peace negotiations involving Iran, reflecting the delicate balance of global energy markets.
US sanctions are exerting extreme economic pressure on Iran, impacting negotiations and regional stability, amid continuing conflicts in the Middle East.
FIFA’s demand-driven, opaque ticket pricing has sparked investigations, highlighting issues around transparency and consumer trust in major sporting events.

Summary

New Heart Drugs in the Pipeline

This section discusses the development of a new class of drugs aimed at lowering lipoprotein(a) levels, which are linked to heart disease. These drugs use genetic technology to silence the gene responsible for Lp(a) production in the liver. Several companies, including Novartis, Amgen, and Lilly, are in advanced trial stages, with results expected in the coming months to years. While promising, the effectiveness of these drugs in reducing actual cardiovascular events remains to be conclusively proven, and they need to demonstrate significant benefits (ideally 13-20% risk reduction) for approval and insurance coverage.

Lululemon's Corporate Negotiations and Stock Performance

Lululemon and its founder, Chip Wilson, have reached a deal after Wilson, owning 8.7% of shares, criticized the company for losing its edge and focusing excessively on quarterly earnings. Wilson will be appointed to the board, and the company will add a director with product expertise, while Wilson agrees not to criticize the company publicly for 18 months. This resolution has led to a rise in Lululemon’s stock by 2.9%.

Ford’s Strategic Shift and Stock Surge

Ford has seen its stock increase by about 30% over two weeks, reaching its highest since August 2022, due to its new energy storage subsidiary, Ford Energy. The company is repurposing EV battery manufacturing capacity to produce batteries for data centers, power utilities, and industrial uses, seeing a significant market opportunity driven by the AI boom and other competitors like Tesla and LG Energy. This strategic pivot is attracting investor enthusiasm despite the downturn in the EV market.

Oil Prices and Global Political Tensions

Oil futures declined to their lowest levels in over a month amid hopes for a US-brokered peace deal in conflicts involving Iran. US crude futures fell 5.5% below $89 a barrel. The broader market saw mixed movements with indexes reaching record highs. The geopolitical backdrop includes US-Iran tensions, with US efforts to pressure Iran through economic sanctions impacting Iran’s economy—raising prices on imported goods and increasing economic hardship, which in turn influences negotiations for a potential peace agreement.

US-Iran Tensions and Middle East Developments

President Trump indicates a firm stance towards Iran, warning of potential military action while negotiations for a long-term peace deal continue. Iran faces severe economic strain due to US sanctions, with skyrocketing prices and unemployment. Iranian officials are desperate for relief, making a deal more urgent. Elsewhere in the region, Israel has killed Hamas' new military chief, Muhammad Ode, in a targeted strike. Meanwhile, the war in Gaza continues with Israeli military operations aiming to eliminate Hamas personnel involved in recent attacks.

Ticket Pricing Controversy for the World Cup

FIFA is implementing demand-driven, dynamic ticket pricing for the upcoming World Cup, but the opaque process has led to protests and investigations. The New York and New Jersey attorneys general have issued subpoenas demanding transparency on how prices are determined, especially after fans reported being misled about seat locations and ticket categories. FIFA has not responded to requests for comment, raising concerns about consumer protection and fair practices.

Show notes

P.M. Edition for May 27. Pharmaceutical companies have been testing a new type of drug to lower levels of lipoprotein(a); high levels have been linked to heart disease and can’t be lowered with diet and exercise. WSJ reporter Xavier Martinez walks us through how the new drugs work and what is still needed before they can make their way to patients. Plus, Ford’s stock has been surging for the past two weeks, but the reason doesn’t have much to do with cars. Journal autos reporter Ryan Felton discusses. And President Trump says he doesn’t fear political fallout from the Iran war, while the U.S. blockade throttles the Iranian economy. We hear from WSJ Middle East correspondent Benoit Faucon about what that economic pressure means for both sides as they seek a deal for long-term peace. Alex Ossola hosts.

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