Alcon Inc Stock Price, News & Analysis

Alcon Inc. (NYSE: ALC) announced a public offering of EUR 500 million in 2.375% senior notes due 2028. The offering will be conducted by Alcon Finance B.V., a wholly-owned subsidiary, and guaranteed by Alcon Inc. The notes are set to close on May 31, 2022, pending customary conditions. Proceeds will be used for general corporate purposes, including refinancing existing debt. The notes will also be listed on the Luxembourg Stock Exchange's Euro MTF.

Alcon, a leader in eye care, has announced the acquisition of EYSUVIS® and INVELTYS® eye drops from Kala Pharmaceuticals for an upfront payment of $60 million. EYSUVIS, approved for treating acute dry eye disease, complements Alcon's Systane family of products, enhancing treatment options for over 30 million affected individuals in the U.S. This strategic move is expected to strengthen Alcon's position in the growing dry eye category and is anticipated to close in Q3 2022, pending regulatory approval. 2021 revenues for EYSUVIS and INVELTYS were $6.3 million and $4.9 million, respectively.

Alcon reported strong Q1 2022 sales of $2.2 billion, reflecting a 14% increase on a reported basis and 18% in constant currency year over year. Surgical and Vision Care segments both contributed to double-digit growth, with Surgical sales reaching $1.3 billion. The diluted earnings per share is $0.34, doubling from the previous year. Operating margin improved to 11.3%, while the core operating margin rose to 20.6%. Despite inflationary pressures, the company raised its constant currency growth outlook for 2022 to 9% to 11%.

Alcon Inc. (NYSE: ALC) reported the successful approval of all resolutions during its 2022 Annual General Meeting (AGM), held amid ongoing COVID-19 concerns. A total of 339,496,103 shares were represented, accounting for 69.05% of eligible votes. Key outcomes include the election of Dr. Raquel C. Bono to the Board, re-election of current Board members, and approval for a gross dividend of CHF 0.20 per share. Shareholders also agreed on the compensation amounts for the Board and the Executive Committee for the upcoming term.

Alcon (NYSE: ALC) announced key findings regarding its SMARTCataract application at ASCRS 2022, showcasing significant time savings in cataract surgery workflows. The updated SMARTCataract now integrates with the ORA SYSTEM using VerifEye+, enhancing connectivity with surgical equipment. A study led by Dr. Zachary Zavodni revealed that SMARTCataract can save up to 13.8 minutes in post-refractive patients compared to traditional methods. Alcon aims to improve patient outcomes through its digital health solutions designed for ophthalmic practices.

Alcon announces its significant presence at the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (ASCRS) 2022 Annual Meeting, showcasing 150 abstracts including 60 sponsored by the company. Key highlights include the performance of Clareon® IOL material, demonstrating excellent vision and clarity three years post-implantation, and the ARGOS® Biometer, which enhances surgical planning efficiency. Alcon focuses on innovation and data-driven results to support surgeons and improve patient outcomes.

Alcon (NYSE: ALC) has partnered with actress Kate Walsh to launch a multimedia campaign for Systane Complete Preservative-Free Lubricant Eye Drops, aimed at raising awareness of dry eye symptoms. Walsh shares her journey with dry eye, emphasizing the importance of finding effective relief. The new drops provide 8 hours of symptom relief and are designed to hydrate all layers of the tear film. The campaign includes social media content and partnerships with influencers, alongside a commitment to assist communities in need of eye care during Dry Eye Awareness Month.

Alcon announced a partnership with actress Kate Walsh to promote the new Systane Complete Preservative-Free Lubricant Eye Drops, aiming to address dry eye symptoms. The campaign, titled Make Every Look Count, features Walsh sharing her personal experience with dry eye relief and encourages others to seek effective solutions. The drops offer up to eight hours of relief with advanced nano-droplet technology and no preservatives. A multi-channel advertising strategy will launch in 2022 to enhance consumer awareness and product availability.

Alcon, a leader in eye care, will hold its Annual General Meeting (AGM) on April 27, 2022, in a closed format due to COVID-19 precautions. Shareholders must send voting instructions to an independent representative. The Board proposes the election of Raquel C. Bono as a new member and a dividend of CHF 0.20 per share, with the record date on May 2 and payout on May 5. The meeting agenda includes the approval of financial statements and votes on board compensations.