Pfizer Split, Once Decided, Could Happen Quickly, CEO Says

The big pharma could complete a breakup by the end of 2017 once it reaches a decision on whether or not to separate out the innovative and established products businesses, action expected in the fourth quarter.

Pfizer Inc. could complete a business breakup in about one year if the company decides to move forward with a split, CEO Ian Read said during the company’s first quarter sales and earnings call May 3.

“If we made a decision to split in the fourth quarter, we believe that the transaction could be completed by...