Alcon Inc Stock Price, News & Analysis

Alcon, a leader in eye care, has won the FutureEdge 50 Award for its ForeSight enterprise data and analytics platform, recognizing its innovative approach to technology. This platform, developed in just 67 days, played a crucial role in Alcon's transition to an independent company by separating IT services from its former parent. The award underscores Alcon's commitment to cost and time savings while establishing its leadership in data analytics. This achievement follows multiple accolades for the company in 2021, including the CIO of the Year ORBIE Award.

Alcon reported strong financial results for Q2 2021, with worldwide sales reaching $2.1 billion, a 75% increase year-over-year. Diluted earnings per share were $0.31, with core diluted earnings at $0.56. Surgical net sales surged 100% and Vision Care sales increased 49%. The company raised its full-year sales outlook to $8.0 to $8.2 billion. Operating income for Q2 was $229 million, significantly improved from last year. Alcon's cash position was $1.4 billion, with a net debt of $2.8 billion.

Alcon (NYSE: ALC) announced the launch of TOTAL30®, a revolutionary monthly replacement Water Gradient contact lens. This lens offers unparalleled comfort, feeling like nothing even on day 30. The reusable lens segment represents 45% of the $9 billion global contact lens market. TOTAL30 integrates new CELLIGENT™ Technology, enhancing durability and reducing bacteria adhesion. Set for U.S. release in September 2021, it aims to meet the needs of the two-thirds of contact lens wearers who prefer reusable options, addressing a decade-long innovation gap in this segment.

Alcon (SIX/NYSE: ALC) will present over 60 abstracts at the ASCRS 2021 meeting in Las Vegas, focusing on its ophthalmic products, particularly presbyopia-correcting intraocular lenses (IOLs) like AcrySof® Vivity™ IQ, AcrySof® PanOptix®, and Clareon® IOL. Key findings show Vivity IOL achieves 94% distance vision without glasses and 90% patient satisfaction. Presentations will also cover innovations such as the ARGOS® biometer and NGENUITY® 3D visualization system, demonstrating Alcon's commitment to surgical efficiency and patient outcomes in cataract procedures.

Alcon (SIX/NYSE: ALC) announced key changes to its Executive Committee effective September 1, 2021. Ian Bell is appointed President, Global Business & Innovation, while Michael Onuscheck steps down. Raj Narayanan succeeds Bell as President, International. Sue-Jean Lin becomes Chief Information & Transformation Officer, joining the committee. CEO David Endicott expressed confidence in these leaders to drive innovation and growth post-COVID-19. The Executive Committee will continue with seven members, ensuring effective management and strategic implementation for Alcon’s future.

Alcon (SIX/NYSE: ALC) will showcase new findings at the BCLA 2021 Conference, highlighting its innovative TOTAL30® monthly replacement water gradient contact lens. Cheryl Donnelly, International Head of Professional Affairs, emphasized the lens's focus on comfort and vision to enhance wearer retention. The TOTAL30 lens boasts exceptional lubricity and high durability, with plans for U.S. and European market introduction in 2021, followed by global availability in 2022. Alcon's participation as a sponsor includes virtual sessions and a booth for eye care professionals to explore these innovations.

Alcon, a global leader in eye care, reported Q1 2021 financial results reflecting a 5% increase in worldwide sales to $1.9 billion. Diluted EPS was $0.17, with core diluted EPS at $0.49. Surgical segment sales rose 9%, driven by demand for cataract equipment. Vision Care sales declined 1%, impacted by prior year stocking activity. Operating income reached $149 million, with core operating margin at 18.0%. The company ended the quarter with $1.6 billion in cash and provided a full-year outlook of $7.8 to $8.0 billion in net sales.

Alcon (SIX/NYSE: ALC) has signed an agreement to acquire exclusive U.S. commercialization rights to Simbrinza (brinzolamide/brimonidine tartrate ophthalmic suspension) from Novartis for $355 million, closing in Q2 2021. This acquisition strengthens Alcon's ophthalmic portfolio, allowing it to tap into the glaucoma market and the growing dry eye segment. Simbrinza, approved by the FDA in 2013, is a combination therapy for elevated intraocular pressure, which is crucial for preventing optic nerve damage. Alcon expects to handle its manufacturing and commercialization post-transition with Novartis.

Alcon Inc. (SIX/NYSE: ALC) held its 2021 Annual General Meeting, where 70.87% of shares were represented. Mike Ball was re-elected as Chair, and all Board members up for re-election were maintained. Shareholders approved a dividend of CHF 0.10 per share, marking Alcon's first dividend. The 2020 Compensation Report was not approved in a consultative vote. Pricewaterhouse Coopers SA was re-elected as auditors. Alcon is set to announce its Q1 2021 earnings on May 4. The company emphasizes ongoing product launches and market share growth despite pandemic challenges.