Novartis returns to sales growth in second quarter

(Sharecast News) - Novartis returned to sales growth in the second quarter, it announced on Tuesday, as demand for newer medicines helped offset intensifying generic competition for former blockbuster Entresto. Net sales rose 1% at constant currencies to $14.41bn, while core operating profit was flat at $5.94bn, ahead of market forecasts, and core earnings per share slipped 1% to $2.41.

Growth was led by Kisqali, Kesimpta, Scemblix, Pluvicto and Leqvio, while Entresto sales halved to $1.18bn.

The Swiss drugmaker reaffirmed guidance for low single-digit sales growth and a low single-digit decline in core operating profit for 2026, despite the better-than-expected quarter.

Novartis is relying on newer cancer and immunology treatments, cost controls and recent acquisitions to navigate its most significant period of patent expiries, while investors await pivotal trial results from potential future growth drivers including pelacarsen, remibrutinib and del-desiran.

At 1027 CEST (0927 BST), shares in Novartis were up 2.19% in Zurich at CHF 125.80.

Reporting by Josh White for Sharecast.com.