By Helena Smolak
Novartis is scheduled to report results for the fourth quarter on Friday. Here is what you need to know.
CORE OPERATING PROFIT FORECAST: The Swiss pharmaceutical major is set to report $4.44 billion in core operating profit--one of its preferred metrics, which strips out exceptional items--for the quarter, according to a poll of 16 analysts by Visible Alpha. The company made $3.82 billion in the prior-year period.
SALES FORECAST: Novartis's sales are forecast at $12.78 billion, according to analysts' estimates compiled by Visible Alpha. This compares with $11.42 billion the year before.
Shares rose 5.1% over the last 12 months.
WHAT TO WATCH
--U.S. generics of aplastic anemia drug Promacta, leukemia treatment Tasigna and heart drug Entresto are expected from around mid-2025, but Novartis has guided for top and bottom-line growth in 2025, Jefferies analysts said. "Fears of no growth in 2025 from U.S. generic headwinds have largely been laid to rest," they said.
--Investors will focus on launch trends and management commentary around Kisqali following its recent approval in early breast cancer, according to UBS analysts. Industry watchers will also look out for an update on its cardiovascular drug candidate pelacarsen, its key late-stage trial this year, UBS said.
Write to Helena Smolak at helena.smolak@wsj.com
(END) Dow Jones Newswires
January 29, 2025 10:19 ET (15:19 GMT)
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