Novartis reports strong Q1 growth in key brands despite US generic erosion, confirms 2026 guidance.

Novartis reported a 5% decline in net sales in Q1 2026 due to US generic competition but saw strong growth in priority brands like Kisqali (+55%) and Pluvicto (+70%). Core operating income fell 14% due to lower sales and increased R&D spending. The company completed the acquisition of Avidity to boost its neuroscience pipeline and reaffirmed its full-year 2026 guidance, expecting low single-digit sales growth and a slight decline in core operating income. Upcoming clinical readouts and new product launches are expected to support future growth.