1527 GMT - Novartis's share-price strength this year raises the bar for upcoming data on late-stage clinical studies that will be pivotal for the Swiss drugmaker's outlook, Bank of America analysts say in a research note. Pipeline failure could hit consensus estimates, but success would help shift investors' focus away from patent expirations, according to Bank of America. Among Novartis's upcoming phase 3 trials, Bank of America is most focused on remibrutinib in relapse-remitting multiple sclerosis and pelacarsen in secondary prevention of cardiovascular events, the analysts say. The drugs could generate $3 billion and $3.1 billion in annual peak sales, respectively, the analysts estimate. Bank of America raises its target price on Novartis stock to 140 Swiss francs from 130 francs. Shares rise 1.1% to 116.84 francs. (adria.calatayud@wsj.com)
(END) Dow Jones Newswires
March 23, 2026 11:27 ET (15:27 GMT)
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