Alcon Inc Stock Price, News & Analysis

Alcon (SIX/NYSE:ALC) reported strong financial results for Q4 and full year 2021. Q4 sales reached $2.1 billion, marking an 11% increase, while full year sales totaled $8.2 billion, up 22%. Core diluted EPS for 2021 was $2.15. The company achieved above-market growth in both Surgical and Vision Care segments, driven by innovative product launches. For 2022, Alcon projects sales between $8.7 billion to $8.9 billion, reflecting continued growth momentum.

Alcon (NYSE: ALC) has launched Systane Complete Preservative-Free Lubricant Eye Drops in Europe, expanding its portfolio of dry eye products. This product is designed to provide relief for all types of dry eye for up to eight hours and is part of the fast-growing, preservative-free segment that now represents over 40% of the global artificial tears market, valued at approximately $1 billion annually. The U.S. and Australia market launches are planned for early 2022.

Alcon announces the launch of DAILIES TOTAL1 for Astigmatism, the first Water Gradient contact lens for astigmatism, available in the U.S. starting March 2022. This new lens expands Alcon's premium daily disposable portfolio, joining existing products like DAILIES TOTAL1 (sphere) and multifocal lenses. With a focus on comfort and vision stability, the toric lens market is rapidly growing, with only 10% of astigmatic patients currently using toric lenses, highlighting significant market opportunity.

Alcon (NYSE: ALC) has successfully completed its acquisition of Ivantis, the developer of the Hydrus Microstent, which is designed for minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS). The integration of Ivantis associates is aimed at ensuring continuity for customers while expanding the reach of the Hydrus Microstent to more markets. The device has shown significant clinical benefits over five years, including reduced need for medication and surgeries. Alcon's CEO anticipates this acquisition will enhance their surgical portfolio and drive growth in the glaucoma market.

Alcon has launched PRECISION1, the first daily disposable contact lens using SMARTSURFACE Technology, enhancing visual performance and comfort. Available in Europe, North America, and parts of Latin America and Asia, PRECISION1 for Astigmatism addresses the needs of up to 41% of patients with astigmatism, as only 10% currently wear toric lenses. The lenses aim to improve retention rates among new users by tackling common issues like poor vision and comfort. Alcon emphasizes its commitment to eye care and enhancing the lens-wearing experience.

Alcon reported third quarter sales of $2.1 billion, a 15% increase year-over-year, reflecting growth across all Surgical and Vision Care segments. The company achieved a core diluted EPS of $0.54, and a core operating margin of 17.7%. Cash flow from operations reached $958 million, with free cash flow at $578 million. Alcon plans to expand in the surgical glaucoma market through the intended acquisition of Ivantis. Despite a net debt position of $2.5 billion, the company ended the quarter with a cash balance of $1.6 billion.

Alcon (NYSE: ALC) reported a strong performance for Q3 and the first nine months of 2021, with sales reaching $2.1 billion, a 15% increase compared to the same period in 2020. Key segments, Surgical and Vision Care, showed significant growth, benefiting from innovation and market recovery post-pandemic. Cash from operations totaled $958 million, with free cash flow at $578 million. Alcon is expanding its surgical glaucoma offerings through an intended acquisition of Ivantis, highlighting its commitment to innovation.

Alcon has introduced SMART Solutions, a digital platform for ophthalmology, furthering its leadership in integrated surgical technologies. The application SMARTCataract is now being installed with U.S. customers, enhancing clinic-to-OR connectivity with cloud-based planning. With access to data from more than 2 million cases through the ORA SYSTEM, surgical accuracy and efficiency are emphasized. Alcon aims for broader rollout in 2022, showcasing advancements at the American Academy of Ophthalmology meeting.

Alcon (NYSE: ALC) has announced its intention to acquire Ivantis, the maker of the Hydrus Microstent, a minimally invasive glaucoma surgery device. The acquisition, valued at $475 million, aims to strengthen Alcon's surgical glaucoma portfolio. The Hydrus Microstent has shown a strong safety profile in a five-year study, with 65% of patients remaining medication-free. This acquisition seeks to expand access to effective glaucoma treatments worldwide, addressing a significant unmet patient need. The transaction is expected to close in the first quarter of 2022, pending regulatory approval.