NOVARTIS

Novartis reports that signs were found in two children suggesting the vector used in the gene therapy Zolgensma may have integrated genetic material into DNA. Since the initial approval in 2019, a total of nine tumor reports have been received from patients treated with Zolgensma; the therapy has been given to more than 6,000 children. The FDA is now reviewing the risk of benign and malignant tumors and possible regulatory actions. Novartis emphasizes that authorities have been informed and that the benefit in approved indications continues to outweigh the risks; no neoplasms have been reported so far for Itvisma. » More on n-tv.de

Novartis reports a Q3 net sales increase of 4% to $14.5bn and an 11% rise in core operating profit to $6.0bn; core earnings per share rose to $2.46. The company has raised its 2026 guidance for core operating results to around last year’s level up to low single-digit growth (previously a low single-digit decline). Reported operating income, however, was hit by a $1.9bn impairment on the product candidate del‑desiran, causing it to fall 59% to $1.8bn. Novartis cites lower costs and productivity improvements as support for the core result. » More on finanzen.net

Novartis has terminated the late-stage study of remibrutinib in generalized myasthenia gravis due to an anticipated failure to meet efficacy endpoints; no safety concerns were identified. The decision does not affect ongoing studies in other indications. Novartis emphasizes that despite this setback, remibrutinib could still become the company’s highest-grossing drug; the compound is already approved as Rhapsido for chronic urticaria and also showed positive results in MS studies. » More on finanzen.net

Novartis reported a third-quarter adjusted operating result that rose 11% to just over $6 billion and has raised its profit outlook for 2026: adjusted operating profit is now expected to either stagnate or grow in the low single digits. Group profit, however, fell by around 60% to $1.84 billion operating and $1.2 billion net due to impairments, of which $1.9 billion related to a failed Del‑Desiran study. Revenue grew 4% to about $14.5 billion, supported by older products and Cosentyx, and Novartis says it will stick to its 2025–2030 mid‑term plan despite setbacks in late‑stage trials. » More on finanzen.net

The British investment bank Barclays has cut its price target for Novartis from 130 to 125 francs, while the 'Equal Weight' rating remains unchanged. The reason is that Remibrutinib fell slightly short of expectations on two key efficacy aspects in the MS trial; the stock is likely to disappoint in the short term. » More on finanzen.net