Johnson & Johnson issued a stronger-than-expected 2026 sales forecast, projecting $100 billion to $101 billion in revenue. The pharmaceutical giant also guided for profit of $11.43 to $11.63 per share, both figures surpassing analyst consensus. This optimism comes despite a pending cost from a new U.S. drug pricing deal.

The company's fourth-quarter results provided a robust foundation, with sales rising 9.1% to $24.56 billion and adjusted profit hitting $2.46 per share, exceeding projections. Growth was driven by a 27% surge in Darzalex blood cancer drug sales and strong medical technology equipment demand, offsetting a decline in the psoriasis treatment Stelara.

CFO Joseph Wolk acknowledged the pricing agreement will cost J&J in the 'hundreds of millions' of dollars. Still, he credited the team for delivering a forecast that overcomes this headwind. The deal, which offers tariff exemptions in exchange for lower U.S. drug prices, follows a broader industry trend under the current administration's affordability push.