Alcon hails robust pipeline as lifts earnings and margin outlook

10. Aug 2026

(AWP Alliance News) - Alcon AG on Monday raised full-year earnings and margin guidance after reporting solid sales growth in its second quarter, although profit was held back by a one-off charge.

The Geneva, Switzerland-based eye-care products company said it broke even on a net income basis in the three months ended June 30 compared with USD176 million the year prior. Diluted earnings per share amounted to USD0.00 compared to USD0.35.

In the quarter, Alcon recorded a pre-tax, non-cash net charge of USD402 million as part of the decision to discontinue the PowerVision programmes following the analysis of the latest clinical study data.

Net sales increased 7.8% to USD2.78 billion from USD2.58 billion, or by 7% at constant exchange rates.

Surgical net sales increased 8% on a reported basis and 7% at CER, with implantables up 2%, consumables up 6% and equipment up 26%.

Vision Care net sales increased 8% on a reported basis and 7% at CER, with contact lenses up 5% and ocular health up 13%.

"Across the portfolio, our innovative products continue to gain traction and expand our market positions, including contact lenses where we are continuing to gain share. With a robust pipeline and several important launches ahead, we are well positioned to deliver sustainable long-term growth and further strengthen our leadership in eye care," said Chief Executive David Endicott.

Looking ahead, Alcon continues to see 2026 constant-currency sales growth of 5% to 7%.

But it raised its outlook for core operating margin and core diluted EPS. It now expects core operating margin expansion of 90 basis points to 190 bps, raised from 70 bps to 170 bps before. It increased its 2026 forecast for core diluted EPS growth to between 12% to 15% year-on-year from 10% to 13%.

Shares were up 4.2% at USD76.70 after hours in New York on Monday after closing up 2.6% earlier. They had closed up 1.7% at CHF58.32 in Zurich on Monday.

By Jeremy Cutler, Alliance News reporter

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