Strong 2007 first quarter performance as Group net sales advance 18% (+15% in local currencies) to USD 9.8 billion on excellent performances from all divisions
Group continuing operations operating income up 18%, net income up 17%
Four important new regulatory approvals received in first quarter, significant progress in achieving multiple new product launches in 2007-2008
Q1 approvals include Tekturna® (hypertension - US), Lucentis® (blindness - EU), Exforge® (hypertension - EU) and Sebivo® (hepatitis B - China)
Completion of strategic positioning on healthcare with pharmaceuticals at the core
Novartis expects record 2007 operating and net income on a continuing basis and reaffirms outlook for Group net sales growth of above five percent in local currencies
