From late 2020 to the summer of 2024, Eli Lilly & Co. ( NYSE: LLY) stock was on a tear, up more than 635%. Last year was a transformative year for the Indianapolis-based pharmaceutical giant, with substantial financial growth driven by its innovative medicines, significant regulatory successes, and continued investment in its pipeline and manufacturing capabilities. On the other hand, it did experience a revenue shortfall in the fourth quarter.
The controversial company employs more than 800,000 employees worldwide, but its plants in China have long been subject to allegations of workers' rights violations. The company saw 18 worker suicide attempts at one plant in 2010 alone. But worker rights at Foxconn have seen some improvements since 2010, largely due to intense international pressure following the suicides and subsequent labor unrest. However, reports from labor watchdogs indicate that these gains have been inconsistent and, in many cases, have failed to create a genuinely safe and equitable work environment. Many fundamental issues - particularly excessive hours, low pay and limits on freedom of association - persist.