GSK cancer, HIV drug sales lift 2025 outlook in boost for shares

Core Insights - GSK raised its 2025 sales and earnings forecasts due to strong performance in its specialty HIV and cancer drugs, resulting in a nearly 7% increase in shares to their highest level since May 2024 [1][2] Group 1: Financial Performance - GSK's global vaccine sales reached £2.68 billion in the quarter ending September 30, surpassing analyst expectations, although U.S. sales of the shingles vaccine, Shingrix, fell by 15% [3][5] - The company expects annual revenue growth of 6% to 7% and core earnings per share to rise by 10% to 12%, factoring in current tariffs and potential impacts from 15% tariffs on Europe [7] Group 2: Leadership Transition - CEO Emma Walmsley is set to hand over to Luke Miels early next year, with analysts expressing confidence in Miels to achieve the annual revenue target of over £40 billion ($54 billion) by 2031 [2][6] - Miels acknowledged the target is achievable but did not provide specific details on his strategy for the upcoming year [6] Group 3: Challenges in Vaccine Sales - GSK's U.S. vaccine business faced challenges, with a noted decline in sales of influenza vaccines due to competition and a cautious outlook on the U.S. vaccine environment [3][4][5] - The company maintained its forecast for a low-single-digit decrease to stable revenues for vaccines, which accounted for over a third of third-quarter revenues [5]