⏱ 1 min 30 read
Background
Novartis published its third-quarter 2026 results on 27 October. The Swiss pharmaceutical group faces a wave of patent expiries and several clinical setbacks since early September.
The key points
Novartis' net profit fell by 70%, to almost 1.2 billion dollars. It was weighed down by a partial impairment of 1.9 billion dollars on del-desiran.
This treatment under study for a neuromuscular disease suffered a setback in clinical trials. Sales nonetheless rose by 4% to 14.5 billion dollars, above expectations.
Key figures
- Quarterly sales: 14.5 billion dollars, against 14.4 billion expected.
- Net profit: almost 1.2 billion dollars, down 70%.
- Impairment on del-desiran: 1.9 billion dollars.
- Core operating income: 6 billion dollars, up 11%.
- Average forecast of analysts polled by AWP: 5.6 billion dollars.
What it means for businesses
Novartis maintains its annual sales forecast, with low single-digit growth. The group raises its core operating income target, now low single-digit growth instead of a slight decline.
Who says what
Novartis also cites higher research and development spending. The group is counting on Kesimpta, Pluvicto and Scemblix to offset patent expiries.
What's next
In early September, the share price had already been shaken by disappointing data on pelacarsen and del-desiran. Trials of cell therapies had also been paused.
Further reading
Sources
- Tribune de Genève – Novartis: clinical failure cuts quarterly profit by 70%
- ABC Bourse – Novartis: sales up 4%, but profit plunges 70%
- AFP (TradingView) – Novartis hit in Q3 by partial asset impairment
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