Stocks to Watch: Novavax Shareholder Activism, Pfizer Stake Sale, and Union Strikes Drive Market Movement
New York, november 13, 2025 – U.S. stock markets are reacting to a flurry of corporate developments this Thursday, including activist investor pressure on Novavax, a potential stake sale by Pfizer in BioNTech, and a widening labor dispute at Starbucks. Pre-market trading indicates notable movement for several key companies, while analysts are initiating coverage of major pharmaceutical firms.
These developments come at a pivotal time for investors navigating economic uncertainty and shifting market dynamics. The pressure on Novavax reflects a broader trend of shareholder activism, while potential shifts in ownership within the biotech sector and labor unrest across major consumer brands signal evolving challenges and opportunities. The market’s response to these events will be closely watched as investors assess the potential impact on their portfolios.
Novavax (NVAX.O) is facing pressure from Shah capital, it’s second-largest shareholder, which is urging strategic changes, potentially including a sale of the company. Shah Capital has warned it could launch a bid for control if no progress is made within the next four months.
BioNTech (BNTX.O) shares fell 3.2% in pre-stock trading following reports that Pfizer (PFE.N) is looking to sell its remaining stake in the German biotech company.
JD.com (JD.O) is up 3% in pre-market trading after reporting third-quarter revenue that exceeded expectations.
Airbnb (ABNB.O) announced a shift in focus towards rural areas, including a $50 million investment plan to support Spanish villages, even as cities like Barcelona plan to ban short-term rentals by 2028.
Starbucks (SBUX.O) is facing intensified labor pressure as over 1,000 unionized workers began an indefinite strike on Thursday, seeking a collective bargaining agreement on wages and benefits.
DoorDash (DASH.O) is advancing 1% in pre-market trading after Wedbush upgraded the stock from “neutral” to “outperform,” citing the company’s dominant position in the U.S. meal delivery market.
AbbVie (ABBV.N), Bristol Myers Squibb (BMY.N), Merck & Co (MRK.N), and Regeneron Pharmaceuticals (REGN.N) are all receiving “outperform compared to the sector” ratings from Scotiabank, which is initiating coverage of the stocks.
Additionally, Global Infrastructure Partners is reportedly developing data centers, according to Expansion newspaper.
