Tariffs are an overhang on pharma sector, but we will comeback, says Novartis CEO Vas Narasimhan

Financial Performance - Novartis shares experienced a decline of nearly 3% despite exceeding expectations for both top and bottom lines [1] - The company has raised its guidance for the 10th consecutive quarter, demonstrating strong sales and core operating income performance exceeding 20% [3] - Key growth drivers, including breast cancer drug Kisqali and prostate cancer drug, are performing above expectations [3] Market Dynamics & Strategy - The US policy environment is creating an overhang on the sector, impacting stock performance [2] - Novartis believes its build-up of U S inventories will help mitigate the impact of tariffs this year [1] - Cosentyx is still growing in the mid-single digits and on its way to becoming an $8 billion medicine [6] - The company aims to balance patient costs and affordability with investments in innovative medicines, especially considering competition from China [8] Leadership Transition - Harry Kirsch will step down as CFO after 13 years, which is considered normal for a company of Novartis's size [4][6]