Novartis gains momentum with strong performance in first half of 2008 from portfolio focused on growth areas of healthcare

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  • First-half results for continuing operations led by improving Pharmaceuticals performance ahead of expectations and expansion in Vaccines and Diagnostics

  • Net sales rise 11% (+2% in local currencies) to USD 20.6 billion

  • Operating income advances 12% to USD 4.9 billion on business expansion, productivity gains and currency benefits

  • Net income up 13% to USD 4.6 billion; basic EPS rises 17% to USD 2.01

  • Dynamic growth from new products - including Tekturna/Rasilez, Exforge, Lucentis, Exelon Patch and Aclasta/Reclast - provides USD 1.3 billion in first-half net sales

  • Key R&D projects on track for 2008 submissions, particularly Afinitor (RAD001) for advanced kidney cancer and Menveo meningococcal meningitis vaccine

  • 25% stake in Alcon, the world leader in eye care, purchased in July; strategic acquisitions strengthen portfolio and complement internal growth drivers

  • Novartis on track for record sales and earnings in 2008 from continuing operations