Novartis beats sales expectations as Q2 revenue rises to $14.4B, eyes upcoming study readouts

Novartis reported a modest rise in second‑quarter sales, lifting its share price after the company posted a 1% increase in net sales to $14.4 billion, surpassing analyst forecasts for a decline.

At constant exchange rates, core operating income reached $5.94 billion, beating the consensus estimate of $5.31 billion. Analysts had expected $5.16 billion on sales of $13.8 billion, highlighting the strength of newer products.

The firm highlighted more than 30% growth in several priority brands, including Kisqali, Kesimpta, Scemblix, Pluvicto and Leqvio. By contrast, revenue from its former top‑selling heart drug Entresto fell by half to $1.18 billion, moving it down to fourth place among the company's most lucrative products.

Looking ahead, Novartis faces a series of pivotal study readouts that could shape its long‑term outlook, while also preparing for a significant patent cliff affecting multiple products over the next five years.