Alcon Earnings: Starts 2024 on a Strong Note From Healthy Consumer Demand and Market Penetration

Narrow-moat Alcon reported strong first-quarter earnings that came in above our expectations. Total sales of $2.5 billion were up 5%, or 7% in constant currencies year over year, and margins showed a nice recovery. Healthy demand, pricing, and trade-ups buoyed sales with minor offsets from unfavorable foreign exchange headwinds. After updating our model, we maintain our fair value estimate of $70 (CHF 62) per share as impacts from our adjustments were too minor to move our valuation.