After General Electric e Toshiba, also Johnson & Johnson announces a spin-off. The American giant has announced that in 2022 it will split into two independent companies: one will continue its normal health care business through the sale of patches, medicines, baby powders and over-the-counter medicines; the other will focus on pharmaceuticals and advanced research medical devices, an activity capable of generating much higher margins, but also carrying greater risks.
"The new Johnson & Johnson - says CEO Alex Gorsky - underlines our focus on the supply of innovation and technology in the biopharmaceutical and medical devices sector with the aim of bringing new solutions to the market for patients and healthcare systems".
The healthcare and consumer services company will change its name, while the J&J brand will identify only the innovative medical device giant.
The news comes as the group faces judicial trouble. In fact, J&J is facing more than 34 legal actions: the accusation is that the company's talcum powder is contaminated with carcinogenic asbestos. However, the company assures that the spin off has nothing to do with the legal proceedings.
At the start of the session, Johnson & Johnson shares gained 1,5% on Wall Street.
