CSL tumbles -15% as it points to reduced vaccination rates in US; lower Chinese demand

Core Viewpoint - CSL Limited has experienced a significant decline in share price, dropping nearly 15% following its latest AGM, primarily due to a forecasted decline in U.S. influenza vaccination rates by 12% [1][2] Financial Performance - The company anticipates a revenue decline in the influenza segment by a number in the mid-teens, which is worse than the previously expected high single-digit growth [2] - Overall revenue growth is now projected at 2-3% year-over-year, down from an earlier estimate of 4-5% [2] - Profit after tax growth is also revised down to 4-7%, reduced from 7-10% [2] Market Challenges - Reduced demand for albumin in China is impacting the company's financials, with CSL aiming to limit the effects to the first half of FY26 [2] - Policy changes in China have made domestic albumin cheaper, affecting CSL's export strategy [2] Management Insights - CSL's Chair, Brian McNamee, acknowledged the frustrations of shareholders regarding the company's performance and the need for change [3] - CEO Dr. Paul McKenzie reaffirmed confidence in the core business and mentioned ongoing efforts to streamline operations for growth [4] Workforce and Cost Management - The company employs over 29,000 staff globally, which may be impacted by a cost-cutting program hinted at during the AGM [4]