GSK Boosts Long-Term Outlook, Plans £2B Share Buyback

GSK Plc's shares surged nearly 6% on Wednesday after the company raised its long-term sales forecast for 2031 to over £40 billion, driven by optimism about its drug pipeline, particularly in specialty medicines and oncology. The British pharmaceutical firm reported stronger-than-expected fourth-quarter results, with earnings per share at 23.2 pence and total sales of £8.1 billion, reflecting a 4% year-over-year growth. GSK also announced a £2 billion share buyback program over the next 18 months, aiming to return capital to investors. Despite a projected decline in vaccine sales, the company expects overall revenue growth between 3% and 5% in 2025, buoyed by its late-stage drug developments. CEO Emma Walmsley emphasized the company's commitment to increasing R&D investment to foster innovation. Analysts have expressed cautious optimism, noting potential challenges ahead, particularly concerning the vaccine market.