Roche's Q1 Sales Increase Y/Y on Solid Performance of Key Drugs

Core Insights - Roche Holding AG reported a strong growth of 7% year-over-year in Q1 2025, with sales reaching CHF 15.4 billion, and a 6% increase at constant exchange rates [1][11] Pharmaceuticals Division - Sales in the Pharmaceuticals Division increased by 8% to CHF 11.9 billion, driven by high demand for key drugs such as Phesgo, Vabysmo, Xolair, and Hemlibra [2][5] - The top five growth drivers generated sales of CHF 3.6 billion, an increase of CHF 0.7 billion compared to Q1 2024 [5] - Hemlibra sales surged 11% to CHF 1.2 billion, while Vabysmo sales increased by 18% to CHF 1 billion [6] - Ocrevus sales rose by 6% to CHF 1.8 billion, contributing significantly to the overall performance [5][15] Diagnostics Division - The Diagnostics Division's sales remained stable at CHF 3.5 billion, with growth in immunodiagnostic products and pathology solutions offsetting the impact of healthcare pricing reforms in China [2] Market Performance - Roche's shares have increased by 12.2% year-to-date, contrasting with a 3% decline in the industry [3] Future Guidance - The company expects total sales growth in the mid-single-digit range at constant exchange rates for 2025, with core earnings per share anticipated to grow in the high single-digit range [11] Pipeline Developments - Roche has in-licensed rights for petrelintide, a long-acting amylin analog, aiming to develop it as a monotherapy and in combination with its lead incretin candidate CT-388 for obesity treatment [12][13] - The company is entering the obesity market, which is currently dominated by competitors like Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly [13] Investment Plans - Roche plans to invest $50 billion in pharmaceuticals and diagnostics R&D and manufacturing in the United States over the next five years [16]