Novartis initiates phase 2 study of MRT-6160 for psoriatic arthritis

Monte Rosa Therapeutics (GLUE) announced that Novartis has started a Phase 2 study of MRT-6160 for psoriatic arthritis. Monte Rosa will receive a $37.5M milestone payment. The study is part of a global license agreement between the companies, with Novartis responsible for development and commercialization. MRT-6160 is a molecular glue degrader targeting VAV1, a protein involved in immune-mediated diseases.

Novartis (NOVN) reported Q3 2026 revenue of $14.5B (+4% YoY) and adjusted EPS of $2.46, with core operating income rising 10-11%. Net profit fell 70% to $1.2B due to a $1.9B impairment. The company raised full-year core operating income guidance and highlighted remibrutinib as a key growth driver. Novartis plans small acquisitions and will host an earnings call.

Novartis (NVS) raised its full-year 2026 core operating income outlook to flat to low-double-digit growth. The company reported strong sales growth for Kisqali, Kesimpta, Pluvicto, Leqvio, and Scemblix. Novartis also updated its peak-sales forecast for Rhapsido to over $4 billion. Pipeline updates included positive data for remibrutinib and setbacks for del-desiran and pelacarsen. The company repurchased $2.8 billion in shares and completed acquisitions.

Novartis (NVS) reported Q3 2026 earnings, raising guidance despite setbacks. Daldesiran and Pelacarsen trials failed, leading to a $1.9B impairment. Pluvicto sales were flat, and Entresto faces generic competition. CEO Narasimhan expects 2027 growth driven by Kisqali, Kesimpta, and other key drugs. The company reaffirmed a 40% core margin target by 2029, with Q4 margins expected to dip due to year-end spending.

Novartis CEO Vasant Narasimhan warned that the US Most Favored Nation (MFN) drug pricing policy may delay or block European launches of certain drugs, including ianalumab, a potential first treatment for Sjögren's disease. Novartis Q3 2026 sales rose 4% to $14.5B, with core earnings up 9% to $2.46 per share, leading to upgraded full-year guidance. The company cited MFN as a structural challenge for European drug pricing and access.

Novartis (NVS) reported Q3 2026 earnings with core EPS beating estimates by 7.89% while revenue missed slightly. The company raised its profit outlook for the year. Key growth drivers include Kisqali, Kesimpta, and Leqvio, offsetting losses from generic drugs. The stock rose 1.27% to $155.76. Management expects H2 sales and core operating income to improve. Questions remain about Q4 margins and 2027 guidance.