Missouri Judge Affirms $4.69 Billion Talc Verdict, J&J Vows To Appeal

A Missouri trial court judge has affirmed the massive $4.69 billion verdict against Johnson & Johnson (JNJ.N) in a case involving 22 women and their families who alleged the company’s talc-based products, including its baby powder, contain asbestos and caused them to develop ovarian cancer. J&J in a statement on Wednesday said it would continue to pursue all available appellate remedies. The company, which denies the allegations and says its talc is safe, previously said it was confident the verdict would be overturned on appeal.