Novartis posts better-than-expected first-quarter sales, raises full-year guidance

Core View - Novartis reported better-than-expected first-quarter sales, with net sales increasing by 15% to $13.2 billion, surpassing analyst estimates of $13.12 billion [1] - The company raised its full-year guidance, forecasting high single-digit growth in net sales and low double-digit growth in core operating income [2] Financial Performance - Quarterly adjusted core operating income rose by 27% to $5.58 billion, compared to the expected $5.07 billion [1] - The previous forecast for net sales growth was mid to high-single digits, and core operating income growth was high single to low double-digits [2] Product Performance - Sales growth was primarily driven by the heart-failure drug Entresto and arthritis medication Cosentyx, with increasing demand for Kisqali, Kesimpta, and Leqvio [3] - The company anticipates strong momentum from priority brands like Kisqali, Kesimpta, and Leqvio, which are expected to drive growth through 2030 and beyond [4] Regulatory Environment - The pharmaceutical industry is closely monitoring potential U.S. tariffs, as the Trump administration has initiated an investigation into the sector [5] - The CEO expressed concerns about the implications of sector-specific levies, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the flow of medication globally [6]