BRIEF—Novartis delivered good operational performance in 2017

Novartis this morning reported financial results for 2017, showing that full-year sales rose 1% to reach $49.11 billion (up 2% at constant exchange).

Operating income was up 4% (+7% cc) to $8.63 billion, with net income at $7.70 billion, up 15% (+14% cc).

Earnings per share rose 16% (+14% cc) to $3.28.

Full year 2017 core operating income at $12.85 billion was broadly in line with prior year (1%, 0% cc), -1% USD) as sales growth and productivity fully offset generic erosion and growth investments.

The strong performance of Novartis’ growth drivers, including Cosentyx (secukinumab) and Entresto (sacubitril), more than offset Gleevec/Glivec (imatinib) generic erosion.

A full report of Novartis results will be available shortly.