Roche Raises Profit Forecast, Plans U.S. Investment

Roche raised its full-year profit guidance, upgrading core EPS growth to the high single- to low double-digit range at constant currencies while maintaining a mid-single-digit sales growth outlook. The group reported nine-month sales up 7% at constant exchange rates to CHF45.9 billion, though reported sales were weighed down by Swiss franc appreciation and third-quarter sales that came in slightly below expectations. Management said talks with the U.S. government on drug pricing are ongoing. Roche has put mitigation measures in place against potential U.S. tariff risks, plans a large U.S. investment program and operates 13 manufacturing sites in the country. CEO Thomas Schinecker said the brighter earnings outlook supports continued investment—including moves into obesity drugs to challenge market leaders—and the company expects to further increase its dividend.