And so, another working week will soon draw to a close. Not a moment too soon, yes? This is, you may recall, our treasured signal to daydream about weekend plans. Our agenda is rather modest. We plan to tidy up around the castle, catch up on some reading, and promenade with the official mascot. And what about you? This is a good time to stock up on sundry goods before the prices rise still more. You could make a getaway plan as spring break is nearing. Or those of you with strong stomachs could track the damage caused by the geopolitical storm in Europe. Well, whatever you do, have a grand time. But be safe. Enjoy, and see you soon. …
Johnson & Johnson (JNJ) and three major pharmaceutical wholesalers finalized nationwide settlements over their role in the opioid crisis in the United States, paving the way to distribute $26 billion to numerous state and local governments across the country, STAT reports. The settlement is the largest so far among many lawsuits filed by communities seeking compensation for the decades-long expenses of coping with the fallout from addiction to opioid painkillers. J&J, AmerisourceBergen (ABC), Cardinal Health (CAH), and McKesson (MCK) agreed to the deal last year, but payouts have been contingent on getting participation from a majority of state and local governments.