Hikma Pharmaceuticals reaffirms guidance after solid start to year

(Sharecast News) - Hikma Pharmaceuticals reaffirmed its full-year guidance on Thursday following a solid start to 2025, supported by stable trading across its three core divisions. The FTSE 100 company said its injectables business delivered strong revenue growth across all geographies, with demand for recently launched products in Europe and MENA and the contribution of the Xellia portfolio in North America offsetting pressure on higher-margin lines.

It was continuing to forecast injectables revenue growth of 7% to 9% and a core operating margin in the mid-30s, with momentum expected to accelerate in the second half.

The branded segment also performed well, particularly in the MENA region, where Hikma expanded its oncology portfolio through a new licensing deal for rucaparib.

It said it expected branded revenue to grow by 6% to 7% in constant currency, maintaining a core EBIT margin close to 25%.

Meanwhile, the generics division was seeing stable demand, especially for nasal and inhalation products, with broadly flat revenue expected for the year with a 16% margin.

Investments in research and development and manufacturing capacity, including at its Zagreb and Columbus facilities, continued to strengthen the business.

Group revenue was expected to rise between 4% and 6% in 2025, with core operating profit projected between $730m and $770m, weighted to the second half.

Hikma noted that it remained resilient amid evolving trade policies due to its extensive US manufacturing footprint and diversified supply chain.

Subject to approval at the annual general meeting, the company said it would pay a final dividend of 48 cents per share, bringing the total 2024 payout to 80 cents, up 11% on the prior year.

"We are pleased to reiterate our group guidance for 2025," said chief executive officer Riad Mishlawi.

"As a global company with strong local expertise and footprint, we are leveraging our manufacturing proficiency and advanced technologies to meet the needs of our customers and patients across our markets."

Mishlawi said that looking ahead, and recognising the broader geo-political challenges, the company was well-positioned.

"Our step up in research and development investment, alongside local manufacturing enhancements, and strategic partnerships will continue to strengthen our portfolio and pipeline and ensure sustained success."

Reporting by Josh White for Sharecast.com.