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The analysts will be searching:

Novartis AG (NVS) -- Oct. 21, 0500 GMT


MARKET EXPECTATIONS: Novartis sales are expected to grow by about 11% to $12.26 billion in the third quarter, partly boosted by the one-month full consolidation of U.S. eye care company Alcon Inc. Furthermore, the Swiss drug maker is expected to benefit from the launch of generic anti-clotting drug Lovenox, the best-selling hospital drug on the U.S market. Net profit, which will include a one-off charge of $590 million due to a portfolio revamp, is set to drop about 6% to around $2.80 billion.

MAIN FOCUS: After winning approval for its multiple-sclerosis pill Gilenya in the U.S., Novartis is expected to fully concentrate on its planned full takeover of Alcon, a move that has so far been contested by minority shareholders of the U.S.-listed firm. Market participants expect Novartis to raise its bid for the remaining stock and avoid a legal battle, thus tapping better into the fast growing eye-treatment market. Details may be announced next Thursday. Fresh pipeline news and early flu vaccines delivery could hold positive surprises.