AstraZeneca PLC (AZN): history, ownership, mission, how it works & makes money

AstraZeneca PLC (AZN) Information


A Brief History of AstraZeneca PLC (AZN)

AstraZeneca PLC is a British-Swedish multinational pharmaceutical and biotechnology company that was formed in 1999 through the merger of Sweden's Astra AB and the UK's Zeneca Group PLC.

  • Astra AB was founded in 1913 in Södertälje, Sweden, and initially focused on the production of medicines for digestive diseases.
  • Zeneca Group PLC was formed in 1993 through the demerger of the pharmaceutical and agrochemical businesses of Imperial Chemical Industries (ICI).
  • After the merger in 1999, the newly formed AstraZeneca PLC became one of the world's largest pharmaceutical companies, with a strong presence in both the UK and Sweden.
  • The company is known for its focus on research and development, particularly in the areas of oncology, cardiovascular, respiratory, neuroscience, and gastrointestinal therapies.
  • Over the years, AstraZeneca has developed a number of blockbuster drugs, including Crestor, Symbicort, Nexium, and the COVID-19 vaccine developed in partnership with the University of Oxford.
  • With a global workforce of over 70,000 employees and operations in more than 100 countries, AstraZeneca continues to be a major player in the pharmaceutical industry.


Who Owns AstraZeneca PLC (AZN)

AstraZeneca PLC (AZN) is a multinational pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical company with a complex ownership structure. The company is publicly traded on the London Stock Exchange and the NASDAQ, with a diverse group of shareholders from around the world. Some of the key institutional investors that own significant stakes in AstraZeneca include:

  • BlackRock - A global investment management corporation with a substantial holding in AstraZeneca.
  • Vanguard Group - Another major institutional investor that holds a significant share of AstraZeneca.
  • Capital Group - An American financial services company that is also a key shareholder in the pharmaceutical giant.

In addition to institutional investors, AstraZeneca is also owned by a large number of individual investors who hold shares in the company through various investment vehicles such as mutual funds, exchange-traded funds (ETFs), and direct share ownership. The company's ownership is constantly changing as investors buy and sell shares on the open market, making it difficult to pinpoint a single entity or individual that owns AstraZeneca outright.



AstraZeneca PLC (AZN) Mission Statement

AstraZeneca PLC is a global, science-led biopharmaceutical company that focuses on the discovery, development, and commercialization of prescription medicines. Our mission is to improve the lives of patients by delivering innovative and meaningful healthcare solutions that address unmet medical needs.

At AstraZeneca, we are committed to pushing the boundaries of science to deliver life-changing medicines that make a real difference in the lives of patients. Our research and development efforts are guided by a deep understanding of disease biology and a relentless pursuit of breakthrough innovations.

We aspire to be a trusted partner in healthcare, working collaboratively with healthcare providers, payers, patients, and communities to improve access to our medicines and ensure that patients receive the care they need.

Our values of integrity, courage, and passion drive us to continuously challenge ourselves and strive for excellence in everything we do. We are dedicated to making a positive impact on society and contributing to a healthier, more sustainable world.

  • Discover: We are committed to advancing scientific knowledge and exploring new possibilities in the pursuit of better treatments.
  • Develop: We strive to translate breakthrough discoveries into innovative medicines that have the potential to transform patient care.
  • Deliver: We work tirelessly to ensure that our medicines reach those who need them, making a meaningful difference in patients' lives.


How AstraZeneca PLC (AZN) Works

AstraZeneca PLC (AZN) is a global biopharmaceutical company that focuses on the discovery, development, and commercialization of prescription medicines. The company operates in over 100 countries and is known for its innovative approach to healthcare.

AstraZeneca works by conducting research and development in various therapeutic areas, including oncology, cardiovascular, respiratory, and immunology. The company invests heavily in science and technology to create new treatments for patients around the world.

Here are some key points on how AstraZeneca PLC (AZN) works:

  • Research and Development: AstraZeneca invests billions of dollars in research and development each year to discover new medicines and improve existing treatments. The company has a global network of research centers and collaborations with academic institutions and other biopharmaceutical companies.
  • Innovation: AstraZeneca is committed to innovation and strives to bring new therapies to patients in need. The company focuses on cutting-edge technologies, such as genomics and artificial intelligence, to accelerate drug discovery and development.
  • Commercialization: AstraZeneca works with healthcare providers, payers, and patients to ensure that its medicines reach those who can benefit from them. The company markets its products globally and adapts its commercial strategies to meet the needs of different markets.
  • Sustainability: AstraZeneca is dedicated to sustainability and social responsibility. The company aims to reduce its environmental impact, improve access to healthcare in underserved communities, and promote diversity and inclusion in its workforce.


How AstraZeneca PLC (AZN) Makes Money

AstraZeneca PLC (AZN) is a global biopharmaceutical company that generates revenue through various sources. Below are some of the key ways in which the company makes money:

  • Product Sales: AstraZeneca generates a significant portion of its revenue through the sales of pharmaceutical products. The company offers a wide range of medicines across various therapeutic areas, including oncology, cardiovascular, respiratory, and diabetes.
  • Licensing and Collaborations: AstraZeneca enters into licensing agreements and collaborations with other pharmaceutical companies and research organizations. These partnerships involve the development and commercialization of new drugs, which provide the company with additional revenue streams.
  • Royalties: AstraZeneca earns royalties from the sale of certain drugs that are developed in collaboration with other companies. These royalties are typically based on a percentage of the net sales of the licensed products.
  • Research and Development Funding: AstraZeneca also generates revenue through research and development funding from government grants, academic institutions, and other sources. This funding supports the company's efforts to discover and develop new drugs and treatments.
  • Product Licensing and Acquisitions: AstraZeneca acquires rights to new products through licensing agreements and acquisitions. By expanding its product portfolio in this way, the company can increase its revenue potential and market presence.

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