ALCON INC, 20-F filed on 2/25/2025
Annual and Transition Report (foreign private issuer)
v3.25.0.1
Cover
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
shares
Document Information [Line Items]  
Document Type 20-F
Document Registration Statement false
Document Annual Report true
Current Fiscal Year End Date --12-31
Document Period End Date Dec. 31, 2024
Document Transition Report false
Document Shell Company Report false
Entity File Number 001-31269
Entity Registrant Name Alcon Inc.
Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code V8
Entity Address, Address Line One Rue Louis-d'Affry 6
Entity Address, Postal Zip Code 1701
Entity Address, City or Town Fribourg
Entity Address, Country CH
Title of 12(b) Security Ordinary Shares, nominal value CHF 0.04 per share
Trading Symbol ALC
Security Exchange Name NYSE
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding 494,616,324
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Yes
Entity Voluntary Filers No
Entity Current Reporting Status Yes
Entity Interactive Data Current Yes
Entity Filer Category Large Accelerated Filer
Entity Emerging Growth Company false
ICFR Auditor Attestation Flag true
Document Financial Statement Error Correction false
Document Accounting Standard International Financial Reporting Standards
Entity Shell Company false
Amendment Flag false
Document Fiscal Period Focus FY
Document Fiscal Year Focus 2024
Entity Central Index Key 0001167379
Business Contact  
Document Information [Line Items]  
Contact Personnel Name Royce Bedward
Entity Address, Address Line One Chemin de Blandonnet 8
Entity Address, Postal Zip Code 1214
Entity Address, Address Line Two Vernier
Entity Address, City or Town Geneva
Entity Address, Country CH
City Area Code 817
Local Phone Number 293 0450
Contact Personnel Fax Number 1 817 551 9807
v3.25.0.1
Audit Information
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Audit Information [Abstract]  
Auditor Name PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
Auditor Firm ID 238
Auditor Location Fort Worth, Texas
v3.25.0.1
Consolidated Income Statement - USD ($)
shares in Millions, $ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Profit or loss [abstract]      
Net sales $ 9,836 $ 9,370 $ 8,654
Other revenues 75 85 63
Net sales and other revenues 9,911 9,455 8,717
Cost of net sales (4,328) (4,141) (3,910)
Cost of other revenues (71) (67) (59)
Gross profit 5,512 5,247 4,748
Selling, general & administration (3,250) (3,209) (3,068)
Research & development (876) (828) (702)
Other income 77 80 36
Other expense (50) (251) (342)
Operating income 1,413 1,039 672
Interest expense (192) (189) (134)
Other financial income & expense 43 (18) (75)
Share of (loss) from associated companies (8) 0 0
Income before taxes 1,256 832 463
Taxes (238) 142 (128)
Net income $ 1,018 $ 974 $ 335
Earnings per share      
Basic (in dollars per share) $ 2.06 $ 1.98 $ 0.68
Diluted (in dollars per share) $ 2.05 $ 1.96 $ 0.68
Weighted average number of shares outstanding      
Basic (in shares) 494.4 493.0 491.4
Diluted (in shares) 497.5 496.5 494.4
v3.25.0.1
Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income - USD ($)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Statement of comprehensive income [abstract]      
Net income $ 1,018 $ 974 $ 335
Other comprehensive income to be eventually recycled into the Consolidated Income Statement:      
Currency translation effects, net of taxes [1] (116) 25 (36)
Total of items to eventually recycle (116) 25 (36)
Other comprehensive income never to be recycled into the Consolidated Income Statement:      
Actuarial gains/(losses) from defined benefit plans, net of taxes [2] 14 (30) 141
Fair value adjustments on equity investments, net of taxes [3] 36 (5) (1)
Total of items never to be recycled 50 (35) 140
Total comprehensive income $ 952 $ 964 $ 439
[1] Amounts are net of tax benefit of $1 million in 2024 and 2023. Amount is net of tax expense of $0.4 million in 2022.
[2] Amount is net of tax expense of $5 million in 2024. Amount is net of tax benefit of $8 million in 2023. Amount is net of tax expense of $40 million in 2022.
[3] Amounts are net of tax expense of $16 million and $3 million in 2024 and 2023, respectively. Amount is net of tax benefit of $1 million in 2022.
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Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income (Parenthetical) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Statement of comprehensive income [abstract]      
Currency translation effects, tax expense (benefit) $ (1.0) $ (1.0) $ 0.4
Actuarial gains/(losses) from defined benefit plans, tax expense (benefit) 5.0 (8.0) 40.0
Fair value adjustments on equity investments, tax expense (benefit) $ 16.0 $ 3.0 $ (1.0)
v3.25.0.1
Consolidated Balance Sheet
SFr in Millions, $ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2024
USD ($)
Dec. 31, 2023
USD ($)
Non-current assets    
Property, plant & equipment $ 4,389 $ 4,369
Right-of-use assets 449 354
Goodwill 8,946 8,926
Intangible assets other than goodwill 8,587 9,060
Deferred tax assets 421 443
Financial assets 652 517
Other non-current assets 594 298
Total non-current assets 24,038 23,967
Current assets    
Inventories 2,268 2,322
Trade receivables 1,736 1,770
Income tax receivables 23 34
Cash and cash equivalents 1,676 1,094
Time deposits 153 0
Other current assets 453 427
Total current assets 6,309 5,647
Total assets 30,347 29,614
Equity    
Share capital 20 20
Reserves 21,533 20,604
Total equity 21,553 20,624
Non-current liabilities    
Financial debts 4,538 4,676
Lease liabilities 429 335
Deferred tax liabilities 724 797
Provisions & other non-current liabilities 825 784
Total non-current liabilities 6,516 6,592
Current liabilities    
Trade payables 773 811
Financial debts 105 63
Lease liabilities 68 71
Current income tax liabilities 104 114
Provisions & other current liabilities 1,228 1,339
Total current liabilities 2,278 2,398
Total liabilities 8,794 8,990
Total equity and liabilities $ 30,347 $ 29,614
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Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Total
Share capital
Other reserves
Fair value adjustments on equity investments
Actuarial (losses)/gains from defined benefit plans
Cumulative currency translation effects
Total value adjustments
[1]
Beginning balance at Dec. 31, 2021 $ 19,256 $ 20 $ 19,356 $ (32) $ (74) $ (14) $ (120)
Net income 335   335        
Other comprehensive income/(loss) 104     (1) 141 (36) 104
Total comprehensive income 439   335 (1) 141 (36) 104
Dividends (102)   (102)        
Equity-based compensation 68   68        
Other movements [2] 16   16        
Total other movements (18)   (18)        
Ending balance at Dec. 31, 2022 19,677 20 19,673 (33) 67 (50) (16)
Net income 974   974        
Other comprehensive income/(loss) (10)     (5) (30) 25 (10)
Total comprehensive income 964   974 (5) (30) 25 (10)
Dividends (117)   (117)        
Equity-based compensation 86   86        
Other movements [2] 14   8 6     6
Total other movements (17)   (23) 6     6
Ending balance at Dec. 31, 2023 20,624 20 20,624 (32) 37 (25) (20)
Net income 1,018   1,018        
Other comprehensive income/(loss) (66)     36 14 (116) (66)
Total comprehensive income 952   1,018 36 14 (116) (66)
Dividends (131)   (131)        
Equity-based compensation 110   110        
Other movements [2] (2)   67 (69)     (69)
Total other movements (23)   46 (69)     (69)
Ending balance at Dec. 31, 2024 $ 21,553 $ 20 $ 21,688 $ (65) $ 51 $ (141) $ (155)
[1] "Total value adjustments" are presented net of the corresponding tax effects.
[2]     Activity includes hyperinflationary accounting (see Note 2). The year ended December 31, 2024 also includes reclassifications to Other reserves related to the transfer of an equity investment to an investment in associated company and the settlement of an equity investment. The year ended December 31, 2023 also includes a reclassification to Other reserves related to the sale of an equity investment.
v3.25.0.1
Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows - USD ($)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Statement of cash flows [abstract]      
Net income $ 1,018,000,000 $ 974,000,000 $ 335,000,000
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash flows from operating activities      
Depreciation, amortization, impairments and fair value adjustments 1,226,000,000 1,226,000,000 1,111,000,000
Equity-based compensation expense 150,000,000 144,000,000 140,000,000
Non-cash change in current and non-current provisions and other non-current liabilities 52,000,000 21,000,000 187,000,000
Losses on disposal and other adjustments on property, plant & equipment and other non-current assets, net 16,000,000 27,000,000 10,000,000
Net gain on divestment of product rights (57,000,000) 0 0
Interest expense 192,000,000 189,000,000 134,000,000
Other financial income & expense (43,000,000) 18,000,000 75,000,000
Share of loss from associated companies 8,000,000 0 0
Taxes 238,000,000 (142,000,000) 128,000,000
Interest received 69,000,000 33,000,000 14,000,000
Interest paid (182,000,000) (176,000,000) (111,000,000)
Other financial payments (8,000,000) (7,000,000) (7,000,000)
Taxes paid (326,000,000) (255,000,000) (178,000,000)
Net cash flows before working capital changes and net payments out of provisions and other non-current liabilities 2,353,000,000 2,052,000,000 1,838,000,000
Net payments out of provisions and other cash movements in non-current liabilities (87,000,000) (260,000,000) (99,000,000)
Change in net current assets and other operating cash flow items (189,000,000) (404,000,000) (522,000,000)
Net cash flows from operating activities 2,077,000,000 1,388,000,000 1,217,000,000
Purchase of property, plant & equipment (473,000,000) (658,000,000) (636,000,000)
Purchase of intangible assets (197,000,000) (193,000,000) (109,000,000)
Purchase of investments in associated companies (159,000,000) (10,000,000) 0
Payments for financial assets (128,000,000) (233,000,000) (50,000,000)
Purchase of time deposits (150,000,000) 0 0
Proceeds from financial assets 9,000,000 2,000,000 2,000,000
Proceeds from sale of short-term investments 0 0 79,000,000
Acquisitions of assets, net of cash acquired 0 (2,000,000) (485,000,000)
Acquisitions of businesses, net of cash acquired (61,000,000) 0 (666,000,000)
Other investing cash flows (8,000,000) 0 0
Net cash flows used in investing activities (1,167,000,000) (1,094,000,000) (1,865,000,000)
Dividends paid to shareholders of Alcon Inc. (130,000,000) (116,000,000) (100,000,000)
Repayment of financial debts (47,000,000) (34,000,000) (2,267,000,000)
Proceeds from financial debts, net of issuance costs 59,000,000 69,000,000 2,586,000,000
Other net changes in financial debts (66,000,000) 37,000,000 (42,000,000)
Lease payments (83,000,000) (79,000,000) (69,000,000)
Payment of withholding taxes related to equity-based compensation (47,000,000) (49,000,000) (50,000,000)
Other financing cash flows (8,000,000) (39,000,000) (66,000,000)
Net cash flows used in financing activities (322,000,000) (211,000,000) (8,000,000)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents (6,000,000) 31,000,000 61,000,000
Net change in cash and cash equivalents 582,000,000 114,000,000 (595,000,000)
Cash and cash equivalents at January 1 1,094,000,000 980,000,000 1,575,000,000
Cash and cash equivalents at December 31 $ 1,676,000,000 $ 1,094,000,000 $ 980,000,000
v3.25.0.1
Description of business
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Corporate information and statement of IFRS compliance [abstract]  
Description of business Description of business
Alcon Inc. (the "Company") and the subsidiaries it controls (collectively "Alcon") is a leading eye care company. Alcon is a global company specializing in the research, development, manufacturing and marketing of a broad range of eye care products within two businesses: Surgical and Vision Care. Alcon is a stock corporation organized under the laws of Switzerland, domiciled in Fribourg, Switzerland, with global headquarters located in Geneva, Switzerland. The shares of the Company are listed on the SIX Swiss Stock Exchange ("SIX") and on the New York Stock Exchange ("NYSE") under the symbol “ALC”.
The Consolidated Financial Statements of Alcon are comprised of the Consolidated Balance Sheet as of December 31, 2024 and 2023 and the Consolidated Income Statement, Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income, Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity and Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows for each of the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022.
The country of operation and percentage ownership of the legal entities with "Total assets" or "Net sales" in excess of $5 million included in the Consolidated Financial Statements are disclosed in Note 27.
v3.25.0.1
Selected accounting policies
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Disclosure Of Notes And Other Explanatory Information [Abstract]  
Selected accounting policies Selected accounting policies
Basis of preparation
The accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements present our historical financial position, results of operations, comprehensive income and cash flows in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”) as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (“IASB”) (“IFRS Accounting Standards”). Alcon's principal accounting policies are described in this Note.
Principles of consolidation and equity accounting
The Consolidated Financial Statements include the accounts of the Company and its wholly owned subsidiaries. In the event that the Company has an interest in another entity that is not wholly owned, the assets, liabilities, results of operations and cash flows of such entity are included in the Company's Consolidated Financial Statements, if the Company directly or indirectly has control over such entity. The Consolidated Financial Statements of the Company are prepared in accordance with IFRS as issued by the IASB. They are prepared in accordance with the historical cost convention except for items that are required to be accounted for at fair value. All intercompany transactions and accounts within Alcon were eliminated.
The Company's financial year-end is December 31, which is also the annual closing date of the individual entities' financial statements incorporated into the Consolidated Financial Statements.
Associated companies are all entities over which Alcon has a significant influence but not control or joint control. This is generally the case where Alcon holds between 20% and 50% of an entity's voting rights. Alcon can also have significant influence over an investee where it holds less than 20% of the voting rights if Alcon has significant transactions with the investee, Alcon has influence over the investee’s policy making decisions through Board representation, Alcon shares significant technical information with the investee or Alcon exchanges personnel with the investee. Investments in associated companies are accounted for using the equity method from the date when the investee is determined to be an associated company until the date when Alcon loses significant influence over the investee. Under the equity method, the investment is initially recognized at cost. Investments in associated companies acquired in stages are accounted for under the fair value as deemed cost approach. Under this policy election, Alcon revalues its pre-existing investment to fair value on the date the investee becomes an associated company. Transaction costs for the acquisition of an additional stake are expensed when incurred. The carrying amount of the investment is subsequently increased or decreased, to recognize Alcon's share of profit or loss and other comprehensive income of the associated company after the date of initial recognition.
Alcon eliminates its share of profit/(loss) from unrealized gains/(losses) from its transactions with associated companies against the carrying amount of the investment. Dividends received or receivable from associated companies are recognized as a reduction in the carrying amount of the investment.
The use of the equity method is discontinued from the date when the investee is determined to no longer be an associated company. The investment retained after cessation of the equity method is remeasured at fair value, and any gain or loss on such remeasurement and disposal of the investment is recognized in the Consolidated Income Statement.
The carrying amounts of investments in associated companies are tested for impairment when triggering events are identified.
Use of estimates and assumptions
The preparation of Consolidated Financial Statements requires management to make certain estimates and assumptions, either at the balance sheet date or during the period, that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities as well as revenues and expenses. Because of the inherent uncertainties, actual outcomes and results may differ from management's assumptions and estimates.
Foreign currencies
The Consolidated Financial Statements are presented in US dollars ("USD"). The functional currency of individual entities incorporated into the Consolidated Financial Statements is generally the local currency of the respective entity. The functional currency used for the reporting of certain Swiss entities is USD instead of their respective local currencies. This reflects the fact that the cash flows and transactions of these entities are primarily denominated in this currency.
For entities not operating in hyperinflationary economies, the entities' results, financial position and cash flows that do not have USD as their functional currency are translated into USD using the following exchange rates:
Income, expense and cash flows using for each month the average exchange rate, with the USD values for each month being aggregated during the year;
Balance sheet using period-end exchange rates; and
Resulting exchange rate differences are recognized in other comprehensive income.
The hyperinflationary economies in which Alcon operates are Argentina, Turkey and Venezuela. Argentina and Venezuela were hyperinflationary for all years presented. Turkey became hyperinflationary effective April 1, 2022, requiring retroactive implementation from January 1, 2022 of hyperinflationary accounting.
Hyperinflationary accounting under IAS 29, Financial Reporting in Hyperinflationary Economies, requires restatement of non-monetary assets and liabilities to the general price index at the end of the period. The income statement and components of comprehensive income are restated for changes in general price index from the period in which the transactions were initially recorded to the end of the reporting period, with the restated amounts translated using period-end exchange rates. Alcon records the impacts of applying IAS 29 in "Other reserves" in the Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity and "Other financial income & expense" in the Consolidated Income Statement.
Acquisition of assets
Assets separately acquired are initially recognized on the balance sheet at cost if they meet the criteria for capitalization. The capitalized cost of the asset includes the purchase price and any directly attributable costs for bringing the asset into the condition to operate as intended. Expected costs for obligations to dismantle and remove property, plant and equipment when it is no longer used are included in their cost.
Property, plant and equipment
Property, plant and equipment are depreciated on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful lives. Freehold land is not depreciated. The related depreciation expense is included in the costs of the functions using the asset or "Cost of net sales" in the Consolidated Income Statement.
Property, plant and equipment are assessed for impairment at the cash generating unit ("CGU") level whenever there is an indication that the balance sheet carrying amount may not be recoverable using cash flow projections for the useful life.
The below table shows the respective useful lives for property, plant and equipment.
 Useful life
Buildings and improvements
10 to 40 years
Machinery and other equipment 
Machinery and equipment
5 to 20 years
Furniture and vehicles
5 to 10 years
Computer hardware
3 to 7 years
Business combinations
The acquisition method of accounting is used to account for all business combinations, regardless of whether equity instruments or other assets are acquired. The consideration transferred for the acquisition of a subsidiary may include:
Fair values of the assets transferred;
Liabilities incurred to the former owners of the acquired business;
Equity interests issued by the Company;
Fair value of an asset or liability resulting from a contingent consideration arrangement; and
Fair value of any pre-existing equity interest in the subsidiary.
Identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed in a business combination are measured initially at their fair values at the acquisition date. The excess of the consideration transferred over the fair value of the net identifiable assets acquired is recorded as goodwill, or directly in the income statement if it is a bargain purchase. Alcon primarily uses net present value techniques, utilizing post-tax cash flows and discount rates in estimating the fair value of identifiable assets acquired when allocating the purchase consideration paid for the acquisition. The estimates of the fair values involve significant judgment by management and include assumptions with measurement uncertainty such as the amount and timing of projected cash flows, long-term sales forecasts, the timing and probability of regulatory and commercial success and the discount rate.
Acquisition related costs are expensed as incurred.
Alcon may elect on a transaction-by-transaction basis to apply the optional concentration test to assess whether a transaction qualifies as a business. Under the test, when substantially all of the fair value of the gross assets acquired is concentrated in a single identifiable asset or a group of similar identifiable assets, Alcon will account for the transaction as an asset purchase and not a business combination.
If the concentration test is not met, or Alcon elects not to apply this optional test, Alcon will perform an assessment focusing on the existence of inputs and processes that have the ability to create outputs to determine whether the transaction is an asset purchase or a business combination.
Goodwill and intangible assets
The annual impairment testing date is Alcon's financial year-end, December 31.
Goodwill
Goodwill arises in a business combination and is the excess of the consideration transferred to acquire a business over the underlying fair value of the net identified assets acquired. It is allocated to groups of CGUs which are usually represented by the reportable segments, which are the same as Alcon's operating segments. Goodwill is tested for impairment annually at the level of these groups of CGUs, and any impairment charges are recorded under "Other expense" in the Consolidated Income Statement.
Intangible assets available-for-use
Alcon has the following classes of available-for-use intangible assets: Currently marketed products, Marketing know-how, Technologies, Other intangible assets (including software) and the Alcon brand name.
Currently marketed products represent the composite value of acquired intellectual property, patents, and distribution rights and product trade names.
Marketing know-how represents the value attributable to the expertise acquired for marketing and distributing Alcon surgical products.
Technologies represent identified and separable acquired know-how used in the research, development and production processes.
Significant investments in internally developed and acquired software are capitalized and included in the "Other" category and amortized once available for use.
The Alcon brand name is shown separately as it is the only Alcon intangible asset that is available for use with an indefinite useful life. Alcon considers it appropriate that the brand name has an indefinite life since the branded products have a history of strong revenue and cash flow performance, and Alcon has the intent and ability to support the brand with spending to maintain its value for the foreseeable future.
Except for the Alcon brand name, intangible assets available for use are amortized over their estimated useful lives on a straight-line basis and evaluated for potential impairment whenever facts and circumstances indicate that their carrying value may not be recoverable. The Alcon brand name is not amortized, but evaluated for potential impairment annually.
The below table shows the respective useful lives for available-for-use intangible assets and the location in the Consolidated Income Statement in which the respective amortization and any potential impairment charge is recognized.
 Useful lifeIncome statement location for
amortization and impairment charges
Currently marketed products
5 to 20 years
"Cost of net sales"
Marketing know-how
25 years
"Cost of net sales"
Technologies
10 to 20 years
"Cost of net sales" or "Research and Development"
Other (including software)
3 to 10 years
In the respective functional expense
Alcon brand nameNot amortized, indefinite useful life"Other expense"
Acquired In-Process Research & Development ("IPR&D")
Acquired research and development intangible assets, which are still under development and have accordingly not yet obtained marketing approval, are recognized as IPR&D.
IPR&D is not amortized, but evaluated for potential impairment on an annual basis or when facts and circumstances warrant. IPR&D is considered impaired when its balance sheet carrying amount exceeds its estimated recoverable amount, which is defined as the higher of its fair value less costs of disposal ("FVLCOD") and its value in use ("VIU"). Usually, Alcon applies the FVLCOD method for its impairment assessments. Under this approach when evaluating IPR&D for potential impairment, FVLCOD is estimated using net present value techniques utilizing post-tax cash flows and discount rates as there are no direct or indirect observable prices in active markets for identical or similar assets. The estimates used in calculating the net present values involve significant judgment by management and include assumptions with measurement uncertainty such as, the amount and timing of projected cash flows, long-term sales forecasts, discount rate, and the timing and probability of regulatory and commercial success. In the limited cases where the VIU method would be applied, net present value techniques would be applied using pre-tax cash flows and discount rates.
Any impairment charge is recorded in the Consolidated Income Statement under "Research & development".
Once a project included in IPR&D has been successfully developed it is transferred to the "Currently marketed products" category.
Impairment of goodwill, Alcon brand name and definite lived intangible assets
A CGU to which goodwill has been allocated (reportable segments) is considered impaired when its carrying amount, including the goodwill, exceeds its recoverable amount, which is defined as the higher of its FVLCOD and its VIU. If the recoverable amount of the reportable segment is less than its carrying amount, an impairment loss shall be recognized. The impairment loss shall be allocated to reduce the carrying amount of any goodwill allocated to the reportable segment first, with any remaining impairment loss allocated to other assets of the reportable segment on a pro-rata basis of their carrying amount.
An intangible asset other than goodwill is considered impaired when its balance sheet carrying amount exceeds its estimated recoverable amount, which is defined as the higher of its FVLCOD and its VIU. If the recoverable amount of an asset is less than its carrying amount, the carrying amount of the asset shall be reduced to its recoverable amount. That reduction is an impairment loss. Usually, Alcon applies the FVLCOD method for its impairment assessment. In most cases, no direct or indirect observable market prices for identical or similar assets are available to measure the FVLCOD. Therefore, an estimate of FVLCOD is based on net present value techniques utilizing post-tax cash flows and discount rates. In the limited cases where the VIU method would be applied, net present value techniques would be applied using pre-tax cash flows and discount rates.
FVLCOD reflects estimates of assumptions that market participants would be expected to use when pricing the asset or CGUs, and for this purpose management considers the range of economic conditions that are expected to exist over the remaining useful life of the asset.
The estimates used in calculating the net present values involve significant judgment by management and include assumptions with measurement uncertainty, such as the following:
Amount and timing of projected cash flows;
Long-term sales forecasts, including sales growth rates;
Royalty rate for the Alcon brand name;
Terminal growth rate; and
Discount rate.
Other assumptions used in the net present values calculation include:
Future tax rate;
Actions of competitors (launch of competing products, marketing initiatives, etc.); and
Outcome of R&D activities and forecast of related costs (future product developments).
Generally, for intangible assets with a definite useful life Alcon uses cash flow projections for the whole useful life of these assets. For goodwill and the Alcon brand name, Alcon generally utilizes cash flow projections for a five-year period based on management forecasts, with a terminal value based on cash flow projections considering the long-term expected growth rates and impact of demographic trends of the population to which Alcon products are prescribed, for later periods. Probability-weighted scenarios are typically used.
Discount rates used consider Alcon's estimated weighted average cost of capital adjusted for specific country and currency risks associated with cash flow projections to approximate the weighted average cost of capital of a comparable market participant. Actual cash flows and values could vary significantly from forecasted future cash flows and related values derived using net present value techniques.
Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents includes cash on hand, deposits held at call with financial institutions, and other short-term and highly liquid investments. Other short-term and highly liquid investments are classified as cash and cash equivalents when original or weighted-average maturities are three months or less and amounts are readily convertible to known amounts of cash which are subject to an insignificant risk of changes in value. Bank overdrafts are usually presented within current "Financial debts" on the Consolidated Balance Sheet except in cases where a right of offset has been agreed with a bank which then allows for presentation on a net basis.
Time deposits
Time deposits are financial instruments recognized initially at fair value and subsequently measured at amortized cost using the effective interest method. Time deposits with a maturity date greater than three months but less than twelve months are reported in the Consolidated Balance Sheet in "Time deposits" in current assets. Time deposits with a maturity date greater than twelve months are reported in "Financial assets" in non-current assets. Interest income is recognized in "Other financial income & expense" in the Consolidated Income Statement.
Financial assets
Financial assets measured at amortized cost
Non-current financial assets measured at amortized cost generally include long-term note receivables, long-term receivables from customers, primarily related to surgical equipment sales arrangements, loans, advances and other deposits. The carrying value of these assets reflects the time value of money, less any allowances for uncollectable amounts.
Alcon assesses on a forward-looking basis the expected credit losses associated with its non-current financial assets valued at amortized cost.
Purchased or originated credit-impaired financial assets are financial assets that are credit-impaired on initial recognition with one or more events that have a detrimental impact on the estimated future cash flows of those financial assets. The interest income of the financial assets is calculated by applying the credit-adjusted effective interest rate to the amortized cost of the financial asset. The calculation does not revert to the gross basis even if the credit risk of the financial asset subsequently improves so that the financial asset is no longer credit-impaired. Interest income is recognized in "Other financial income and expense" in the Consolidated Income Statement.
The lifetime expected credit loss ("ECL") of the purchased or originated credit-impaired financial assets is analyzed at inception and utilized in calculating the credit-adjusted effective interest rate, with no Day 1 impact on the carrying value of the financial assets. The value of any collateral related to the financial assets is considered in estimating the lifetime ECL at inception. For purchased or originated credit-impaired financial assets, a credit-adjusted effective interest rate is calculated by discounting the estimated future cash flows, including ECLs, to the amortized cost of the debt instrument on initial recognition. Any change in the lifetime ECL from inception would be reflected as a credit loss in the Consolidated Income statement.
For long-term receivables from customers, provisions for uncollectable amounts, which are based on their expected credit losses, are recorded as marketing and selling costs recognized in the Consolidated Income Statement within "Selling, general & administration" expenses.
For loans, advances and other deposits valued at amortized cost, impairments, which are based on their expected credit losses, and exchange rate losses are included in "Other expense" in the Consolidated Income Statement and exchange rate gains and interest income, using the effective interest rate method, are included in "Other income" in the Consolidated Income Statement.
Financial assets measured at fair value through profit and loss ("FVPL")
Financial assets measured at FVPL generally include options to acquire private companies, fund investments and derivative financial instruments. Changes in the fair value of options to acquire development stage private companies are charged to "Research and development" expense in the Consolidated Income Statement. Unrealized or realized gains and losses for fund investments, including exchange gains and losses, are recognized in the Consolidated Income Statement in "Other income" for gains and "Other expense" for losses.
Derivative financial instruments are initially recognized in the Consolidated Balance Sheet at fair value and are remeasured to their current fair value at the end of each subsequent reporting period. The valuation of forward exchange rate contracts and foreign exchange swaps are based on the discounted cash flow model, using interest curves and spot rates at the reporting date as observable inputs. Unsettled forward contracts and swaps are measured at fair value at the reporting date with changes in fair value recorded to the Consolidated Income Statement as unrealized gains or losses in "Other financial income & expense". Settled forward contracts and swaps are measured at maturity date at fair value with corresponding realized gains or losses recognized in the Consolidated Income Statement in "Other financial income & expense". No hedge accounting is applied for these arrangements.
Financial assets measured at fair value through other comprehensive income ("FVOCI")
Equity investments, including equity securities and convertible notes receivable held as strategic investments, are generally designated at the date of acquisition as financial assets valued at FVOCI with no subsequent recycling through profit and loss. Unrealized gains and losses, including exchange gains and losses, are recorded as a fair value adjustment in the Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income. They are reclassified to "Other reserves" when the equity investment is sold or settled. If these equity securities and convertible notes receivable are not designated at the date of acquisition as financial assets valued at FVOCI, they are valued at FVPL, as described above.
For all financial assets measured at fair value, Alcon recognizes transfers between levels of the fair value hierarchy at the end of the reporting period during which the transfers have occurred.
Inventories
Inventory is valued at the lower of acquisition or production cost determined on a first-in, first-out basis and net realizable value. This value is used for the "Cost of net sales" and "Cost of other revenues" in the Consolidated Income Statement. Unsalable inventory is fully written off in the Consolidated Income Statement under "Cost of net sales" and "Cost of other revenues".
Trade receivables
Trade receivables are initially recognized at their invoiced amounts, including any related sales taxes less adjustments for estimated revenue deductions such as chargebacks and cash discounts.
Provisions for expected credit losses are established using an expected credit loss model ("ECL"). The provisions are based on a forward-looking ECL, which includes possible default events on the trade receivables over the entire holding period of the trade receivable. These provisions represent the difference between the trade receivable's carrying amount and the estimated net collectible amount. Charges for doubtful trade receivables are recorded as marketing and selling costs recognized in the Consolidated Income Statement within "Selling, general & administration" expenses.
Leases
As lessee, Alcon assesses whether a contract contains a lease at inception or modification of a contract based on whether the contract conveys the right to control the use of an identified asset for a period of time in exchange for consideration. Alcon allocates contractual payments between lease and non-lease components based on their relative stand-alone price. Alcon recognizes a right-of-use asset and a corresponding lease liability for all arrangements in which it is a lessee, except for leases with a term of twelve months or less (short-term leases) and low value leases for which Alcon has elected the recognition exemptions allowed under IFRS 16.
Right-of-use assets
Right-of-use assets are initially recognized at cost, which is comprised of the amount of the initial measurement of the corresponding lease liabilities, adjusted for any lease payments made at or prior to the commencement date of the lease, lease incentives received and initial direct costs incurred, as well as any expected costs for obligations to dismantle and remove right-of-use assets when they are no longer used.
Right-of-use assets are depreciated on a straight-line basis over the shorter of the useful life of the right-of-use asset or the end of the lease term.
Right-of-use assets are assessed for impairment whenever there is an indication that the balance sheet carrying amount may not be recoverable using cash flow projections for the useful life.
Lease liabilities
Lease liabilities are accounted for at amortized cost and are initially measured at the present value of future lease payments and are classified as current or non-current based on the due dates of the underlying principal payments. In determining the lease term, Alcon evaluates the renewal options and termination options reasonably certain to be exercised. Lease payments are discounted using the interest rate implicit in the lease or, if not readily determinable, the incremental borrowing rate Alcon would be expected to pay within the respective markets, on a borrowing with a similar term and security. Interest in the period is recorded within "Interest expense" in the Consolidated Income Statement.
Lease liabilities are remeasured for changes in estimated lease term, future lease payments arising from a change in an index or rate, amounts expected to be payable under a residual value guarantee, or in assessment of whether Alcon will exercise a purchase, extension or termination option. Changes to initial lease contract terms are assessed to determine their impact on the scope of lease, and any modifications increasing the scope of the lease are treated as new contracts under the initial measurement principles, while modifications that do not increase or that decrease the scope of the lease result in an adjustment to the right-of-use asset which is remeasured as of the date of the modification.
Principal payments made on lease liabilities and any initial direct costs paid are classified as financing cash outflows, while interest payments are classified as operating cash outflows.
Payments associated with short-term leases and leases of low-value assets are recognized on a straight-line basis as an expense in the Consolidated Income Statement and are classified as cash flows from operating activities.
Legal liabilities
Alcon is subject to contingencies arising in the ordinary course of business such as patent litigation and other product-related litigation, commercial litigation, and governmental investigations and proceedings. Provisions are recorded where a reliable estimate can be made of the probable outcome of legal or other disputes.
Contingent consideration
In a business combination, it is necessary to recognize contingent future payments to previous owners representing contractually defined potential amounts as a liability. Usually for Alcon, these are linked to development or commercial milestones related to certain assets and are recognized as a financial liability at their fair value, which is then re-measured at each subsequent reporting date.
For the determination of the fair value of a contingent consideration, various unobservable inputs are used. A change in these inputs might result in a significantly higher or lower fair value measurement. The inputs used are, among others, the timing and probability of regulatory and commercial success, sales forecast and assumptions regarding the discount rate, timing and different scenarios of triggering events. The significance and usage of these inputs to each contingent consideration may vary due to differences in the timing and triggering events for payments or in the nature of the asset related to the contingent consideration. These estimates typically depend on factors such as technical milestones or market performance and are adjusted for the probability of their likelihood of payment, and if material, appropriately discounted to reflect the impact of time.
Changes in the fair value of contingent consideration liabilities in subsequent periods are recognized in the Consolidated Income Statement in "Cost of net sales" for currently marketed products and in "Research & development" for IPR&D.
The effect of unwinding the discount over time is recognized in "Interest expense" in the Consolidated Income Statement.
Alcon accounts for variable or contingent consideration associated with asset acquisitions using the cost accumulation model. At the date of the asset acquisition, the intangible asset is initially recognized at the amount paid. Variable payments are subsequently capitalized as part of the cost of the asset when paid, on the basis that such payments represent the direct cost of acquisition.
Defined benefit pension plans and other post-employment benefits
The liability or asset recognized in the balance sheet in respect of defined benefit pension plans and other post-employment benefits is the present value of the defined benefit obligation at the end of the reporting period less the fair value of plan assets. The defined benefit obligation is calculated annually by independent actuaries using the projected unit credit ("PUC") method.
The present value of the defined benefit obligation is determined by discounting the estimated future cash outflows using interest rates of high-quality corporate bonds that are denominated in the currency in which the benefits will be paid, and that have terms approximating the terms of the related obligation. In countries where there is no sufficient market for such bonds, the market rates on government bonds are used.
The current service cost for such post-employment benefit plans is included in the personnel expenses of the various functions where the associates are employed. The net interest on the net defined benefit liability is recognized as "Other expense" or "Other income". The net interest cost is calculated by applying the discount rate to the net balance of the defined benefit obligation and the fair value of plan assets. Past service cost is recognized as "Other expense" or "Other income" in the Consolidated Income Statement for the change in the present value of a defined benefit obligation for employee service in prior periods resulting from a plan amendment or a curtailment.
Remeasurement gains and losses arising from experience adjustments and changes in actuarial assumptions are recognized in the period in which they occur, directly in other comprehensive income.
Defined contribution plans
For defined contribution plans, Alcon contributes to publicly or privately administered plans. Alcon has no further payment obligations once the contributions have been paid. The contributions are included in the personnel expenses of the various functions where the associates are employed.
Financial debts
Financial debts are initially recognized at fair value, net of transaction costs incurred. Financial debts are subsequently measured at amortized cost. Any difference between the proceeds (net of transaction costs and discounts) and the redemption amount is recognized in the Consolidated Income Statement over the period of the financial debts using the effective interest method. Fees paid on the establishment of credit facilities are recognized as transaction costs of the financial debt to the extent that it is probable that some or all of the facility will be drawn down. In this case, the fee is deferred until the draw down occurs. To the extent that there is no evidence that it is probable that some or all of the facility will be drawn down, the fee is capitalized as a prepayment for liquidity services and amortized over the period of the facility to which it relates, and is recognized in "Other financial income & expense" in the Consolidated Income Statement.
Financial debts are derecognized from the balance sheet when the obligation specified in the contract is discharged, cancelled or expired. The difference between the carrying amount of a financial debt that has been extinguished and the consideration paid, including any non-cash assets transferred or liabilities assumed, is recognized in "Other financial income & expense" in the Consolidated Income Statement.
Interest paid on financial debts is classified as operating activities in the Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows. Proceeds and repayments of borrowings with due dates of three months or less are presented net as financing activities in the Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows. Financial debts are classified as current liabilities unless Alcon has a right to defer the settlement of the liability for at least twelve months after the reporting period.
Revenue
Net sales
Revenue on the sale of Alcon products and services, which is recorded as "Net sales" in the Consolidated Income Statement, is recognized when a contractual promise to a customer (i.e., a performance obligation) has been fulfilled by transferring control over the promised goods and services to the customer, substantially all of which is at the point in time of shipment to or receipt of the products by the customer or when the services are performed. If contracts contain customer acceptance provisions, revenue would be recognized upon the satisfaction of acceptance criteria. The amount of revenue to be recognized is based on the consideration Alcon expects to receive in exchange for its goods and services. If a contract contains more than one performance obligation, the consideration is allocated based on the relative stand-alone selling price of each performance obligation.
Surgical equipment may be sold together with other products and services under a single contract and may be structured as an outright cash sale, an installment sale, or a lease. Surgical equipment installment sales and leases have a fixed payment amount which the customer may pay either in fixed intervals or as the customer purchases consumables and/or implantables. Revenues are recognized upon satisfaction of each of the performance obligations in the contract and the consideration is allocated based on the relative stand-alone selling price of each performance obligation.
Surgical equipment revenue from outright cash sales and installment sales arrangements is recognized at the point in time when control is transferred to the customer. The current portion of long-term receivables from customers and long-term receivables from customers for installment sales arrangements are recorded in "Other current assets" (see "Current portion of long-term receivables from customers" in Note 14) and "Financial assets" (see "Long-term receivables from customers" in Note 11), respectively. Financing income for installment sales arrangements longer than twelve months is recognized over the term of the arrangement in "Other income". Alcon applies the practical expedient under IFRS 15 to installment sales arrangements that are twelve months or less in duration.
In addition to cash and installment sales, revenue is recognized under finance and operating lease arrangements. Leases in which Alcon transfers substantially all the risks and rewards incidental to ownership to the customer are treated as finance lease arrangements. Revenue from finance lease arrangements is recognized at amounts equal to the fair value of the equipment, which approximates the present value of the minimum lease payments under the arrangements. As interest rates embedded in lease arrangements are approximately market rates, revenue under finance lease arrangements is comparable to revenue for outright sales. Finance income for arrangements longer than twelve months is deferred and subsequently recognized based on a pattern that approximates the use of the effective interest method and recorded in "Other income". Operating lease revenue for equipment rentals is recognized on a straight-line basis over the lease term in "Net sales".
The consideration Alcon receives in exchange for its goods or services may be fixed or variable. Variable consideration is only recognized when it is highly probable that a significant reversal of cumulative sales will not occur. The most common elements of variable consideration are listed below:
Rebates and discounts granted to government agencies, wholesalers, retail pharmacies, managed health-care organizations and other customers, estimated payments for Medicare Part D prescription drug program coverage gap (commonly called the "donut hole"), patient co-pay program coupon utilization, as well as chargebacks are provisioned and recorded as a deduction from revenue at the time the related revenues are recorded or when the incentives are offered. They are calculated based on historical experience, regulations, the specific terms in the individual agreements, product pricing, channels and payors.
Cash discounts are offered to customers to encourage prompt payment and are provisioned and recorded as revenue deductions at the time the related sales are recorded.
Sales returns provisions are recognized and recorded as revenue deductions when there is historical experience of Alcon agreeing to customer returns and Alcon can reasonably estimate expected future returns. In doing so, the estimated rate of return is applied, determined based on historical experience of customer returns and considering any other relevant factors. This is applied to the amounts invoiced, also considering the amount of returned products to be destroyed versus products that can be placed back in inventory for resale. Where shipments are made on a re-sale or return basis, without sufficient historical experience for estimating sales returns, revenue is only recorded when there is evidence of consumption or when the right of return has expired.
Provisions for revenue deductions are adjusted to actual amounts as rebates, discounts, chargebacks, payment for Medicare Part D prescription drug program, patient co-pay program coupon utilization and returns are processed. The provision represents estimates of the related obligations, requiring the use of judgment when estimating the effect of these sales deductions.
Other revenues
"Other revenues" include revenue from contract manufacturing services which are recognized over time as the service obligations are completed and third party royalty income. Associated costs for contract manufacturing services are recognized in "Cost of other revenues".
Research & development
Internal research & development ("R&D") costs are fully charged to "Research & development" in the Consolidated Income Statement in the period in which they are incurred. Alcon considers that regulatory and other uncertainties inherent in the development of new products preclude the capitalization of internal development expenses as an intangible asset until marketing approval from a regulatory authority is obtained in a major market such as the United States, the European Union, Switzerland, China or Japan.
Payments made to third parties to in-license or acquire intellectual property rights and products, including initial upfront and subsequent milestone payments, are capitalized as intangible assets. If additional payments are made to the originator company to continue to perform R&D activities, an evaluation is made as to the nature of the payments. Such additional payments will be expensed if they are deemed to be compensation for subcontracted R&D services not resulting in an additional transfer of intellectual property rights to Alcon. Such additional payments will be capitalized if they are deemed to be compensation for the transfer to Alcon of additional intellectual property developed at the risk of the originator company. Subsequent internal R&D costs in relation to IPR&D and other assets are expensed until such time that technical feasibility can be proven, as demonstrated by the receipt of marketing approval for the related product from a regulatory authority in a major market.
Equity-based compensation
Each of the periods presented include expense related to incentive compensation provided to eligible Alcon associates in the form of equity-settled or equity-based awards including restricted stock units ("RSUs") and performance stock units ("PSUs").
Alcon expenses the fair values of RSUs and PSUs granted to associates as compensation over the related vesting periods within the various functions where the associates are employed. The fair values of the awards are determined on their grant dates and are adjusted to account for the specific provisions of each of the corresponding grant agreements.
Alcon RSUs do not entitle the recipients to dividends. As such, the fair value upon grant is based on the Alcon share price at the grant date adjusted for potential future dividends to be paid within the holding period. The fair value of these grants, after making adjustments for assumptions related to their forfeiture during the vesting period, is expensed on a straight-line basis over the respective vesting period.
PSUs are subject to certain performance criteria being achieved during the vesting period and require plan participants to provide services during the vesting period. PSUs granted under Alcon's plans are subject to performance criteria based on internal performance metrics. The expense is determined taking into account assumptions concerning performance during the period relative to targets and expected forfeitures due to plan participants not meeting their service conditions. These assumptions are periodically adjusted. Any change in estimates for past services is recorded immediately as an expense or income in the Consolidated Income Statement and amounts for future periods are expensed over the remaining vesting period. As a result, at the end of the vesting period, the total charge during the whole vesting period represents the amount that will finally vest. The number of equity instruments that finally vest is determined at the vesting date.
If a plan participant leaves Alcon for reasons other than retirement, disability or death, then unvested restricted shares, RSUs and PSUs are forfeited, unless determined otherwise by the provision of the plan rules or by the Compensation Committee of the Company's Board of Directors, for example, in connection with a reorganization.
Restructuring charges
Restructuring provisions are recognized for the direct expenditures arising from the restructuring, where the plans are sufficiently detailed and where appropriate communication to those affected has been made.
Charges to increase restructuring provisions are included in "Other expense" in the Consolidated Income Statement. Corresponding releases are recorded in "Other income" in the Consolidated Income Statement.
Taxes
Taxes on income are expensed in the same periods as the revenues and expenses to which they relate and include any interest and penalties incurred during the period. Deferred taxes are determined using the comprehensive liability method and are calculated on the temporary differences that arise between the tax basis of an asset or liability and its carrying value in the balance sheet prepared for purposes of these Consolidated Financial Statements, except for those temporary differences related to investments in subsidiaries where the timing of their reversal can be controlled and it is probable that the difference will not reverse in the foreseeable future. Alcon recognizes deferred taxes for a new temporary difference where there are previously unrecognized temporary differences, instead of adjusting the amount of those unrecognized differences, for changes in the underlying economics where the initial recognition exemption applies. Since the retained earnings are reinvested, withholding or other taxes on eventual distribution of a subsidiary's retained earnings are only taken into account when a dividend has been planned.
The estimated amounts for current and deferred tax assets or liabilities, including any amounts related to any uncertain tax positions, are based on currently known facts and circumstances. Tax returns are based on an interpretation of tax laws and regulations and reflect estimates based on these judgments and interpretations. The tax returns are subject to examination by the competent taxing authorities which may result in an assessment being made requiring payments of additional tax, interest or penalties. Inherent uncertainties exist in the estimates of the tax positions.
The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (“OECD") has published Global Anti-Base Erosion (“GloBE”) Model Rules, which include a minimum 15% tax rate by jurisdiction ("Pillar Two"). For the periods ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, we have applied the IASB amendment to IAS 12, Income Taxes, which provides a mandatory temporary exception from recognizing or disclosing deferred taxes related to Pillar Two.
Earnings per share
Basic earnings per share is based on the weighted average number of common shares outstanding. Diluted earnings per share is based on the weighted average number of common shares outstanding and all dilutive potential common shares outstanding.
New standards and interpretations recently adopted
Effective January 1, 2024, Alcon adopted Amendments to International Accounting Standards 1 ("IAS 1"), Presentation of Financial Statements, which clarified the criteria used in determining the classification on the balance sheet of a liability as non-current where an entity has the right to postpone settlement of the liability for at least twelve months after the reporting date. Upon adoption of the amendment, current financial debts of $82 million for which Alcon has a right to roll over for at least twelve months after the December 31, 2023 balance sheet date were retrospectively reclassified to non-current financial debts.
In July 2024, the IASB approved an International Financial Reporting Interpretations Committee ("IFRIC") agenda decision, Disclosure of Revenues and Expenses for Reportable Segments, related to application of the requirements in IFRS 8, Operating Segments, to disclose specified amounts related to segment profit or loss for each reportable segment. Upon adoption of this IFRIC agenda decision, Alcon has added incremental disclosures related to reportable segments in Note 4.
New standards and interpretations not yet adopted
In April 2024, the IASB issued IFRS 18, Presentation and Disclosure in Financial Statements, which will replace IAS 1, Presentation of Financial Statements and accompanies limited amendments to other standards which will be effective upon the adoption of the new standard. IFRS 18 will be retroactively effective for our annual reporting periods beginning on January 1, 2027, with early adoption permitted. The standard is expected to improve comparability and transparency of financial statements by requiring defined subtotals in the Consolidated Income Statement, requiring disclosure of management-defined performance measures and adding new principles for aggregation and disaggregation of information. Alcon is currently evaluating the impact of this standard on its Consolidated Financial Statements.
Other than previously described, as of December 31, 2024 there are no IFRS Accounting Standards, interpretations or amendments not yet effective that would be expected to have a material impact on Alcon upon adoption.
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Significant transactions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Significant Transactions [Abstract]  
Significant transactions Significant transactions
Significant transactions in 2024
Divestment of product rights and out-licensing in China
On October 17, 2024, Alcon closed on a set of definitive agreements to divest its rights in China in favor of Ocumension Therapeutics (Hong Kong) Limited (“Ocumension”) to Bion Tears and Tears Naturale (reported in Vision Care segment) and procedural eye drops (reported in Surgical segment). Under the terms of the agreements, Ocumension licensed the exclusive commercialization rights to Systane Ultra in China and development and commercialization rights to AR-15512 in China. In exchange, Alcon received up-front consideration of $116 million in the form of approximately 16.7% of the ordinary shares of Ocumension. Alcon will also receive royalties and defined AR-15512 sales milestones. Refer to Note 21.3 for additional information.
Surgical - Acquisition of BELKIN Vision Ltd.
On July 1, 2024, Alcon acquired 100% of the outstanding shares and equity of BELKIN Vision Ltd. ("BELKIN") as provided under the Agreement and Plan of Merger ("Agreement"). This transaction complements Alcon’s existing Surgical portfolio in the treatment of glaucoma. The acquisition was accounted for as a business combination that resulted in goodwill of $20 million after the purchase price allocation ("PPA") of the consideration to the fair values of acquired assets and assumed liabilities. The total purchase consideration amounted to $92 million, including $20 million of previously-held FVOCI financial investments in BELKIN. Total cash paid at closing for the net identifiable assets recognized, net of cash acquired, was $61 million. Refer to Note 21.1 for additional information and final PPA.
Significant transactions in 2023
There were no significant transactions during 2023.
Significant transactions in 2022
Vision Care - Acquisition of Aerie Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
On November 21, 2022, Alcon acquired 100% of the outstanding shares and equity of Aerie Pharmaceuticals, Inc. ("Aerie"), a pharmaceutical company focused on the discovery, development, manufacturing and commercialization of first-in-class ophthalmic therapies. Pursuant to the terms of the Agreement and Plan of Merger, Alcon paid $15.25 per share to acquire all outstanding shares of Aerie's common stock. The total purchase consideration amounted to $744 million and total cash paid for the net identifiable assets recognized, net of cash acquired, was $666 million. Alcon also assumed debt of $316 million. This transaction was accounted for as a business combination that resulted in goodwill of $65 million under the preliminary PPA of the fair values of the acquired assets and assumed liabilities. The total purchase consideration was funded with proceeds from a bridge loan facility agreement (the "2022 Bridge Loan Facility") on November 21, 2022. Refer to Note 16 for additional information regarding the 2022 Bridge Loan Facility. The PPA was subsequently finalized during the third quarter of 2023, resulting in adjusted goodwill of $21 million. Refer to Note 21.1 for additional information regarding the final PPA.
Series 2032 Notes and Series 2052 Notes issuance
On December 6, 2022, Alcon, through its wholly owned subsidiary Alcon Finance Corporation (“AFC”), completed a private offering of non-current financial debt consisting of $700 million of 5.375% senior notes due 2032 and $600 million of 5.750% senior notes due 2052. The funds borrowed through the issuance, together with cash, were used to repay the remaining $640 million Facility B term loan and the $775 million 2022 Bridge Loan Facility. Refer to Note 16 for additional information.
Vision Care - Acquisition of Eysuvis and Inveltys products
On July 8, 2022, Alcon acquired two pharmaceutical ophthalmic eye drops, Eysuvis and Inveltys, from Kala Pharmaceuticals, Inc. The acquisition complements Alcon’s existing portfolio in the large and fast-growing dry eye category. Pursuant to the terms of the Asset Purchase Agreement, Alcon paid total upfront consideration of $60 million for Eysuvis and Inveltys, paid an additional amount to purchase certain related inventory and assumed certain liabilities of approximately $14 million for a purchase consideration of $79 million. In addition, Alcon agreed to potentially pay additional amounts upon achievement of certain commercial milestones if annual sales exceed defined targets that expire after 2029. The purchase consideration was allocated using the relative fair value approach primarily to currently marketed product intangible assets within the Vision Care reportable segment of $71 million and assumed liabilities of $14 million.
Series 2028 Notes issuance
On May 31, 2022, Alcon, through its wholly owned subsidiary Alcon Finance B.V. (“AFBV”), completed a public offering of $537 million (EUR500 million) of non-current EUR denominated financial debt consisting of 2.375% senior notes due 2028. The funds borrowed through the issuance were used to repay the $376 million (EUR350 million) Facility C term loan in full and partially repay $160 million of the Facility B term loan. Refer to Note 16 for additional information.
Surgical - Acquisition of Ivantis, Inc.
On January 7, 2022, Alcon acquired 100% of the outstanding shares and equity of Ivantis, Inc., a privately-held, US-based company and manufacturer of the Hydrus Microstent, a minimally-invasive glaucoma surgery (“MIGS”) device designed to lower intraocular pressure for open-angle glaucoma patients, for total upfront consideration of $479 million and additional amounts to be potentially paid upon achievement of development and commercial milestones. The acquisition expands Alcon’s surgical portfolio and is expected to help provide a platform for more growth in the glaucoma space. Refer to Note 21.2 for additional information regarding this transaction which was accounted for as an asset acquisition.
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Segment information
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Operating Segments [Abstract]  
Segment information Segment information
The segment information disclosed in these Consolidated Financial Statements reflects historical results consistent with the identifiable reportable segments of Alcon and financial information that the Chief Operating Decision Maker ("CODM") reviews to evaluate segmental performance and allocate resources among the segments. The CODM is the Executive Committee of Alcon.
The businesses of Alcon are divided operationally on a worldwide basis into two identified reportable segments, Surgical and Vision Care. Alcon's reportable segments are the same as its operating segments as Alcon does not aggregate any operating segments in arriving at its reportable segments. As indicated below, certain income and expenses are not allocated to segments.
Reportable segments are presented in a manner consistent with the internal reporting to the CODM. The reportable segments are managed separately due to their distinct needs and activities for research, development, manufacturing, distribution and commercial execution.
The Executive Committee of Alcon is responsible for allocating resources and assessing the performance of the reportable segments.
In Surgical, Alcon researches, develops, manufactures, distributes and sells ophthalmic products for cataract surgery, vitreoretinal surgery, refractive laser surgery and glaucoma surgery. The surgical portfolio also includes implantables, consumables and surgical equipment required for these procedures and supports the end-to-end procedure needs of the ophthalmic surgeon.
In Vision Care, Alcon researches, develops, manufactures, distributes and sells daily disposable, reusable, and color-enhancing contact lenses and a comprehensive portfolio of ocular health products, including products for dry eye, ocular allergies, glaucoma and contact lens care, as well as ocular vitamins and redness relievers.
Alcon also provides services, training, education and technical support for both the Surgical and Vision Care businesses.
The basis of preparation and the selected accounting policies mentioned in Note 2 are used in the reporting of segment results.
The Executive Committee of Alcon evaluates segmental performance and allocates resources among the segments based on net sales and segment contribution, which is the single measure of segment profitability.
Net identifiable assets are not assigned to the segments in the internal reporting to the CODM, and are not considered in evaluating the performance of the business segments by the Executive Committee of Alcon.
Segment contribution excludes amortization and impairment charges for acquired product rights or other intangibles, general and administrative expenses for corporate activities, transformation costs, fair value adjustments to contingent consideration liabilities, past service costs primarily for post-employment benefit plan amendments, acquisition and integration related costs, certain acquisition and divestment related items, fair value adjustments of financial assets in the form of options to acquire a company carried at FVPL, net gains and losses on fund investments and equity securities valued at FVPL, restructuring costs, legal provisions and settlements and other income and expense items not attributed to a specific segment.
Net sales and other revenues by segment
($ millions)202420232022
Surgical
Implantables1,775 1,703 1,725 
Consumables2,861 2,719 2,499 
Equipment/other886 892 821 
Total Surgical net sales5,522 5,314 5,045 
Vision Care
Contact lenses2,609 2,400 2,192 
Ocular health1,705 1,656 1,417 
Total Vision Care net sales4,314 4,056 3,609 
Total net sales9,836 9,370 8,654 
Surgical other revenues
— — 
Vision Care other revenues71 85 63 
Total other revenues
75 85 63 
Total net sales and other revenues9,911 9,455 8,717 
Segment contribution and reconciliation to income before taxes
The below table summarizes segment contribution, including material items of income and expense as required by IFRS 8, Operating Segments, and the associated IFRIC agenda decision published in July 2024. The below table also includes a reconciliation of segment contribution to Income before taxes.
SurgicalVision CareNot allocated to segmentsTotal
($ millions)202420232022202420232022202420232022202420232022
Net sales5,522 5,314 5,045 4,314 4,056 3,609    9,836 9,370 8,654 
Other revenues— — 71 85 63 — — — 75 85 63 
Cost of net sales(2,014)(1,898)(1,835)(1,605)(1,535)(1,410)(709)(708)(665)(4,328)(4,141)(3,910)
Cost of other revenues(4)— — (67)(67)(59)— — — (71)(67)(59)
Selling, general & administration(1,461)(1,435)(1,388)(1,467)(1,473)(1,391)(322)(301)(289)(3,250)(3,209)(3,068)
Research & development(580)(527)(486)(284)(289)(212)(12)(12)(4)(876)(828)(702)
Other income— — — — — — 77 80 36 77 80 36 
Other expense— — — — — — (50)(251)(342)(50)(251)(342)
Segment contribution and Operating income1,467 1,454 1,336 962 777 600 (1,016)(1,192)(1,264)1,413 1,039 672 
Interest expense(192)(189)(134)(192)(189)(134)
Other financial income & expense43 (18)(75)43 (18)(75)
Share of (loss) from associated companies(8)— — (8)— — 
Income before taxes1,256 832 463 
Included in segment contribution are:
($ millions)202420232022
Depreciation of property, plant & equipment:
Surgical
(147)(144)(131)
Vision Care
(241)(237)(198)
Not allocated to segments(4)(4)(1)
Total depreciation of property, plant & equipment(392)(385)(330)
Depreciation of right-of-use assets:
Surgical
(50)(49)(46)
Vision Care
(33)(42)(30)
Total depreciation of right-of-use assets(83)(91)(76)
Impairment charges on property, plant & equipment, net:
Surgical
(1)— (2)
Total impairment charges on property, plant & equipment, net(1) (2)
Equity-based compensation:
Surgical
(81)(78)(74)
Vision Care
(58)(64)(61)
Not allocated to segments(23)(17)(17)
Total equity-based compensation(162)(159)(152)
Geographical information
The below table shows the United States, International and countries that accounted for more than 5% of at least one of the respective Alcon totals, for net sales for the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022, and for selected non-current assets at December 31, 2024 and 2023.
 
Net sales(2)
Total of selected
non-current assets(3)
($ millions unless indicated otherwise)(1)
20242023202220242023
 
Country          
United States4,511 46 %4,312 46 %3,897 45 %11,380 51 %11,490 51 %
International5,325 54 %5,058 54 %4,757 55 %10,991 49 %11,219 49 %
thereof:
Switzerland (country of domicile)79 %64 %59 %8,800 39 %9,137 40 %
Japan554 %583 %568 %28 — %34 — %
China560 %526 %474 %21 — %10 — %
Other4,132 42 %3,885 41 %3,656 42 %2,142 10 %2,038 %
Company total9,836 100 %9,370 100 %8,654 100 %22,371 100 %22,709 100 %
(1)International percentages may not sum due to rounding.
(2)Net sales by location of third-party customer.
(3)Includes property, plant & equipment, right-of-use assets, goodwill and other intangible assets.
No customer accounted for 10% or more of Alcon's net sales.
v3.25.0.1
Interest expense and other financial income & expense
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Analysis of income and expense [abstract]  
Interest expense and other financial income & expense Interest expense and other financial income & expense
Interest expense
($ millions)202420232022
Interest expense on financial debts(165)(162)(110)
Interest expense from discounting long-term liabilities(8)(10)(9)
Interest expense on lease liabilities(19)(17)(15)
Total interest expense(192)(189)(134)
Other financial income & expense
($ millions)202420232022
Interest income84 45 16 
Loss on extinguishment of financial debt— — (5)
Other financial expense(12)(11)(12)
Monetary gain/(loss) from hyperinflation accounting(13)(16)
Currency result, net(30)(39)(58)
Total other financial income & expense43 (18)(75)
v3.25.0.1
Taxes
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Income Taxes [Abstract]  
Taxes Taxes
Income before taxes
($ millions)202420232022
Switzerland493 359 234 
Foreign763 473 229 
Total income before taxes1,256 832 463 
Current and deferred income taxes
($ millions)202420232022
Switzerland(95)(74)(17)
Foreign(239)(93)(146)
Current income tax (expense)(334)(167)(163)
Switzerland25 313 53 
Foreign71 (4)(18)
Deferred tax income96 309 35 
Total income tax (expense)/income(238)142 (128)
Analysis of tax rate
Alcon's overall applicable tax rate can change each year since it is calculated as the weighted average tax rate based on pre-tax income/(loss) of each subsidiary. The main elements contributing to the difference between Alcon's overall applicable tax rate and the effective tax rate are summarized in the below table.
 202420232022
($ millions unless indicated otherwise)(1)
%%%
Applicable tax rate(256)20.4 %(168)20.2 %(104)22.5 %
Effect of disallowed expenditures(4)0.3 %(7)0.8 %(13)2.8 %
Effect of deemed legal entity liquidation
57 (4.5)%— — %— — %
Effect of equity-based compensation(2)0.2 %(3)0.4 %(13)2.8 %
Effect of tax credits and allowances18 (1.4)%12 (1.4)%11 (2.4)%
Effect of deductibility of a statutory expense in Switzerland(2)
— — %568 (68.3)%23(5.0)%
Effect of adjustments to contingent consideration and other liabilities— — %(0.2)%(0.6)%
Effect of changes in uncertain tax positions(3)
(43)3.4 %(271)32.6 %10 (2.2)%
Effect of previously unrecognized tax loss carryforward12 (1.0)%11 (1.3)%— — %
Effect of 2022 APA on prior years— — %(0.7)%(37)8.0 %
Effect of non-deductible amortization(9)0.7 %(8)1.0 %(7)1.5 %
Effect of other items(10)0.8 %(6)0.7 %(0.4)%
Effect of prior year items(1)0.1 %(0.7)%(3)0.6 %
Effective tax rate(238)18.9 %142 (17.1)%(128)27.6 %
(1)Percentages may not sum due to rounding.
(2)Includes agreements for fiscal years 2023 and 2022. 2023 also includes a long-term Swiss Tax Agreement; however, it is uncertain whether Alcon will obtain a similar treatment for future years for a portion of the benefit.
(3)Includes the net effect of partial reserves and benefits recognized for the deductibility of statutory expenses in Switzerland. 2024 also includes reserves for the deemed liquidation of a legal entity. 2023 also includes the release of reserves in US and Germany following the conclusion of tax audits and other items.
Alcon has a substantial business presence in many countries and is therefore subject to different income and expense items that are non-taxable (permanent differences) or are taxed at different rates in those tax jurisdictions. This results in a difference between Alcon's applicable tax rate and effective tax rate as shown in the table above.
Fluctuations in taxes and effective tax rates are primarily due to the geographical pre-tax income and loss mix across certain tax jurisdictions relative to Alcon's consolidated income before taxes, changes in uncertain tax positions and certain non-recurring items.
The applicable tax rate was 20.4% in 2024, compared to 20.2% in 2023 and 22.5% in 2022, primarily due to the mix of pre-tax income/(loss) across geographical jurisdictions. The effective tax rate was a 17.1% benefit in 2023 primarily driven by a $263 million net benefit associated with the 2023 Swiss Tax Agreement (as defined below) and a net benefit of $36 million from other discrete tax items. The effective tax rate was 27.6% in 2022, primarily driven by the recognition of tax expense for the 2022 APA (as defined below), partially offset by a net benefit from other discrete tax items.
Tax returns are subject to examination by competent taxing authorities, which may result in assessments being made requiring payments of additional tax, interest or penalties. Inherent uncertainties exist in the estimates of the tax positions.
2023 Swiss Tax Agreement
In 2023, Alcon entered into a long-term agreement with Switzerland tax authorities related to the deductibility of a statutory expense in Switzerland through March 31, 2039 (the "2023 Swiss Tax Agreement"). As a result, in 2023 Alcon recorded a discrete tax benefit of $263 million in "Taxes" in the Consolidated Income Statement and corresponding deferred tax asset, net of reserves.
2022 Advanced Pricing Agreement
In 2022, Alcon recognized the impact of an Advanced Pricing Agreement between US and Switzerland tax authorities (the "2022 APA") related to the allocation and taxation of relevant Alcon profits between the US and Switzerland retroactive to 2019. The 2022 APA results in more profit being taxable at the rate applicable in the US compared to Alcon’s historical filing position. As a result, in 2022 Alcon recorded a discrete item of $37 million of income tax expense related to the 2019 through 2021 tax years and an increase of $64 million of income tax expense for the year ended December 31, 2022. The 2022 APA is valid through 2027.
Pillar Two income taxes
The OECD has published GloBE Model Rules, which include a minimum 15% tax rate by jurisdiction ("Pillar Two"). Various countries have enacted or intend to enact tax legislation to comply with Pillar Two rules. Alcon is within the scope of the OECD’s Pillar Two, which has implications for Alcon’s financial results starting January 1, 2024 onward.
Of the countries that have enacted, or will be enacting Pillar Two legislation, we expect Switzerland to be the most impactful to Alcon. In December 2023, the Swiss government decided to partially implement Pillar Two by introducing a Qualified Domestic Minimum Top-up Tax (“QDMTT”) to reach the required taxation level of 15% on Pillar Two qualifying profits earned by companies domiciled in Switzerland effective from January 1, 2024. This QDMTT will not be applied to the Pillar Two qualifying profits earned by subsidiaries domiciled in tax jurisdictions outside of Switzerland. The implementation timing and specific provisions of any further Pillar Two tax regulations in Switzerland remain subject to further assessments at both the Federal and Cantonal levels. In September 2024, the Swiss government introduced the Income Inclusion Rule ("IIR") effective beginning January 1, 2025. Under the IIR, Switzerland will tax the Pillar Two-qualifying profit of foreign subsidiaries in case and to the extent the taxation in those countries does not reach the required taxation level of 15%. On January 15, 2025, the OECD issued administrative guidance related to the treatment of certain deferred taxes to streamline the administration of Pillar Two. This administrative guidance did not impact Alcon's 2024 Consolidated Financial Statements.
For the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, we have applied the IASB amendment to IAS 12, Income Taxes, which provides a mandatory temporary exception from recognizing or disclosing deferred taxes related to Pillar Two. Further, Alcon's effective tax rates in the relevant jurisdictions met the minimum 15% taxation level in the current year. We are continuing to follow Pillar Two legislative developments to evaluate the potential future impact on our consolidated results of operations, financial position and cash flows.
v3.25.0.1
Share capital, dividends and earnings per share
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Earnings per share [abstract]  
Share capital, dividends and earnings per share Share capital, dividends and earnings per share
7.1 Share capital
The share capital of the Company as of December 31, 2024 is CHF 20 million, which is comprised of 499.7 million registered shares, nominal value of CHF 0.04 per share.
The below table shows the movement in the shares.
(shares in millions)(1)
Common stock shares outstandingTreasury stock sharesTotal shares
January 1, 2022490.1 9.6 499.7 
Settlement of equity-based awards1.7 (1.7)— 
December 31, 2022491.8 7.9 499.7 
Settlement of equity-based awards1.5 (1.5)— 
December 31, 2023493.2 6.4 499.7 
Settlement of equity-based awards1.4 (1.4) 
December 31, 2024494.6 5.1 499.7 
(1)Totals may not sum due to rounding.
All of the Company's 5.1 million shares held in treasury as of December 31, 2024 may only be used to fulfill the future vesting of existing and future equity-based awards.
Capital range and conditional share capital
On May 5, 2023, Alcon's shareholders approved the introduction of a capital range and a conditional share capital in Alcon's Articles of Incorporation. Under the capital range, and until May 5, 2028 or an earlier expiry, the Company's Board of Directors (the "Board") has the authority to increase or decrease the share capital ranging from CHF 19 million (lower limit) to CHF 22 million (upper limit). The capital increase or decrease may be effected by (A) issuing up to the lower of (i) 50 million fully paid-in registered shares and (ii) 10% of the share capital at the time of increase or (B) cancelling up to 25 million registered shares, as applicable. The Board is further authorized to withdraw or restrict subscription rights of existing shareholders and allocate such rights to third parties, the Company or any of its group companies, for the purposes of (a) raising equity capital, (b) acquisition transactions, (c) broadening the shareholders constituency in certain financial or investor markets or (d) Board, executive management, employees, advisors or other participation programs.
The Board can also rely on a conditional share capital instrument in its Articles of Incorporation through which the share capital may be increased in an amount not to exceed CHF 2.0 million, by the issuance of up to 50 million fully paid-in registered shares through the voluntary or mandatory exercise of conversion, exchange, option, warrant, subscription or other rights granted to or imposed on shareholders or third parties alone or in connection with the issuance of bonds, notes, options, warrants or other similar securities or contractual obligations of the Company or its affiliates. The conditional share capital may be used for the same purposes as stated in the preceding paragraph in connection with the capital range. As of December 31, 2024, the Board had not made use of the authority under any of the capital range or conditional share capital provisions.
7.2 Dividends
On February 27, 2024, the Board proposed a dividend of CHF 0.24 per share, which was subsequently approved by the shareholders at the Annual General Meeting on May 8, 2024 and paid in May 2024 for an amount of $130 million.
On February 27, 2023, the Board proposed a dividend of CHF 0.21 per share, which was subsequently approved by the shareholders at the Annual General Meeting on May 5, 2023 and paid in May 2023 for an amount of $116 million.
On February 15, 2022, the Board proposed a dividend of CHF 0.20 per share, which was subsequently approved by the shareholders at the Annual General Meeting on April 27, 2022 and paid in May 2022 for an amount of $100 million.
7.3 Earnings per share
Basic earnings per share is computed by dividing net income for the period by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period. For the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022, the weighted average number of shares outstanding was 494.4 million, 493.0 million and 491.4 million, respectively.
The only potentially dilutive securities are the outstanding unvested equity-based awards under the Company's equity-based incentive plans, as described in Note 23. Except when the effect would be anti-dilutive, the calculation of diluted earnings per common share includes the weighted average net impact of unvested equity-based awards. For the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022, the weighted average diluted number of shares outstanding was 497.5 million, 496.5 million and 494.4 million, respectively, which includes the potential conversion of 3.1 million, 3.5 million and 3.0 million unvested equity-based awards, respectively.
The average market value of the Company's shares for the purposes of calculating the potentially dilutive effects of unvested equity-based awards was based on quoted market prices for the period that the unvested awards were outstanding.
v3.25.0.1
Property, plant & equipment
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Property, plant and equipment [abstract]  
Property, plant & equipment Property, plant & equipment
The below table summarizes the movements of property, plant & equipment in 2024.
($ millions)LandBuildings & improvementsConstruction
in progress
Machinery &
other equipment
Total
Cost
January 1, 202438 2,294 1,023 3,989 7,344 
Additions
20 368 128 518 
Impact of business combinations— — — 
Disposals and derecognitions(1)
— (20)(4)(107)(131)
Reclassifications for assets placed in service— 87 (421)334 — 
Currency translation effects(1)(42)(26)(75)(144)
December 31, 202439 2,339 940 4,270 7,588 
Accumulated depreciation
January 1, 2024 (952)(2)(2,021)(2,975)
Depreciation charge— (111)— (281)(392)
Impairment charges— — — (1)(1)
Disposals and derecognitions(1)
— 16 — 99 115 
Currency translation effects— 18 35 54 
December 31, 2024 (1,029)(1)(2,169)(3,199)
Net book value at December 31, 202439 1,310 939 2,101 4,389 
(1)Derecognition of assets that are no longer used and are not considered to have a significant disposal value or other alternative use.
As of December 31, 2024, commitments for purchases of property, plant & equipment were $221 million.
The below table summarizes the movements of property, plant & equipment in 2023.
($ millions)LandBuildings & improvementsConstruction
in progress
Machinery &
other equipment
Total
Cost
January 1, 202335 2,091 955 3,694 6,775 
Additions
98 474 129 703 
Disposals and derecognitions(1)
— (28)(7)(177)(212)
Reclassifications for assets placed in service— 109 (412)303 — 
Currency translation effects24 13 40 78 
December 31, 202338 2,294 1,023 3,989 7,344 
Accumulated depreciation
January 1, 2023 (870)(2)(1,878)(2,750)
Depreciation charge— (100)— (285)(385)
Disposals and derecognitions(1)
— 28 — 158 186 
Currency translation effects— (10)— (16)(26)
December 31, 2023 (952)(2)(2,021)(2,975)
Net book value at December 31, 202338 1,342 1,021 1,968 4,369 
(1)Derecognition of assets that are no longer used and are not considered to have a significant disposal value or other alternative use.
As of December 31, 2023, commitments for purchases of property, plant & equipment were $283 million.
v3.25.0.1
Goodwill and other intangible assets
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Intangible Assets [Abstract]  
Goodwill and other intangible assets Goodwill and other intangible assets
The below table summarizes the movements of goodwill and other intangible assets in 2024.
 Intangible assets other than goodwill
($ millions)GoodwillAlcon
brand
name
Acquired
in-process research & development
TechnologiesCurrently
marketed
products
Marketing
know-how
Other
intangible
assets
(including
software)
Total
Cost
January 1, 20248,926 2,980 918 5,369 6,204 5,960 810 22,241 
Impact of business combinations20 — — — 75 — — 75 
Additions— — 45 — 32 — 130 207 
Disposals and derecognitions(1)
— — — (21)(82)— (44)(147)
December 31, 20248,946 2,980 963 5,348 6,229 5,960 896 22,376 
Accumulated amortization
January 1, 2024  (179)(5,309)(4,186)(3,099)(408)(13,181)
Amortization charge— — — (32)(378)(239)(94)(743)
Disposals and derecognitions(1)
— — — 21 79 — 44 144 
Impairment charges— — (9)— — — — (9)
December 31, 2024  (188)(5,320)(4,485)(3,338)(458)(13,789)
Net book value at December 31, 20248,946 2,980 775 28 1,744 2,622 438 8,587 
(1)     Derecognitions of assets that are no longer used or being developed and are not considered to have a significant disposal value or other alternative use. The current year period also includes currently marketed products divested as described in Note 21.3.
The below table summarizes the allocation of the net book values of goodwill and other intangible assets by reportable segment at December 31, 2024.
Intangible assets other than goodwill
($ millions)GoodwillAlcon
brand
name
Acquired
in-process research & development
TechnologiesCurrently
marketed
products
Marketing
know-how
Other
intangible
assets
(including
software)
Total
Surgical4,564 — 562 28 581 2,622 271 4,064 
Vision Care4,382 — 213 — 1,163 — 167 1,543 
Not allocated to segments— 2,980 — — — — — 2,980 
Net book value at December 31, 20248,946 2,980 775 28 1,744 2,622 438 8,587 
The Surgical and Vision Care reportable segments' CGUs, to which goodwill is allocated, are comprised of a group of smaller CGUs. The valuation method of the recoverable amount of the CGUs, to which goodwill is allocated, is based on the FVLCOD.
The Alcon brand name is an intangible asset with an indefinite life. The intangible asset is not allocated to the reportable segments as it is used to market the Alcon-branded products of both the Surgical and Vision Care businesses. Net sales of these products together are the grouping of CGUs, which is used to determine the recoverable amount. The valuation method is based on the FVLCOD.
The following assumptions were used in the calculations for the recoverable amounts of goodwill and the Alcon brand name at December 31, 2024 and 2023:
December 31, 2024
December 31, 2023
(As a percentage)SurgicalVision CareSurgicalVision Care
Terminal growth rate3.0 3.0 3.0 3.0 
Discount rate (post-tax)8.5 8.0 9.0 8.75 
The Surgical and Vision Care reportable segments' terminal growth rate assumption of 3.0% takes into consideration how the industry is expected to grow, analysis of industry expert reports, and expected relevant changes in demographics for various markets. The discount rates for both Surgical and Vision Care reportable segments consider Alcon's weighted average cost of capital, adjusted to approximate the weighted average cost of capital of comparable market participants. Both the terminal growth rates and the discount rates are consistent with external sources of information.
The FVLCOD, for all groupings of CGUs containing goodwill or indefinite life intangible assets, is reviewed for the impact of reasonably possible changes in key assumptions. In particular, Alcon considered an increase in the discount rate, a decrease in the terminal growth rate and certain negative impacts on the forecasted cash flows. These reasonably possible changes in key assumptions did not indicate an impairment.
Refer to "Impairment of goodwill, Alcon brand name and definite lived intangible assets" and "Acquired In-Process Research & Development ("IPR&D")" in Note 2 for additional disclosures on how Alcon performs goodwill and intangible assets impairment testing.
The below table summarizes the movements of goodwill and other intangible assets in 2023.
Intangible assets other than goodwill
($ millions)GoodwillAlcon
brand
name
Acquired
in-process research & development
TechnologiesCurrently
marketed
products
Marketing
know-how
Other
intangible
assets
(including
software)
Total
Cost
January 1, 20238,926 2,980 920 5,369 6,189 5,960 720 22,138 
Impact of asset acquisitions— — — — — — 
Additions— — — — 19 — 96 115 
Disposals and derecognitions(1)
— — (2)— (4)— (8)(14)
December 31, 20238,926 2,980 918 5,369 6,204 5,960 810 22,241 
Accumulated amortization
January 1, 2023— — (181)(5,278)(3,809)(2,861)(320)(12,449)
Amortization charge— — — (31)(381)(238)(95)(745)
Disposals and derecognitions(1)
— — — — 13 
December 31, 2023  (179)(5,309)(4,186)(3,099)(408)(13,181)
Net book value at December 31, 20238,926 2,980 739 60 2,018 2,861 402 9,060 
(1)     Derecognitions of assets that are no longer used or being developed and are not considered to have a significant disposal value or other alternative use.
The below table summarizes the allocation of the net book values of goodwill and other intangible assets by reportable segment at December 31, 2023.
Intangible assets other than goodwill
($ millions)GoodwillAlcon
brand
name
Acquired
in-process research & development
TechnologiesCurrently
marketed
products
Marketing
know-how
Other
intangible
assets
(including
software)
Total
Surgical4,544 — 564 60 534 2,861 241 4,260 
Vision Care
4,382 — 175 — 1,484 — 161 1,820 
Not allocated to segments— 2,980 — — — — — 2,980 
Net book value at December 31, 20238,926 2,980 739 60 2,018 2,861 402 9,060 
Intangible asset impairment charges
The below table shows the intangible asset impairment charges in 2024, 2023 and 2022.
($ millions)202420232022
Surgical(9)— (60)
Vision Care— — (2)
Total(9) (62)
Impairment charges during the year ended December 31, 2024 amounted to $9 million recognized in Research & development in the Consolidated Income Statement during the second quarter due to the full impairment of an acquired IPR&D CGU in the Surgical reportable segment due to discontinuation of the project.
There were no impairments during the year ended December 31, 2023.
For the year ended December 31, 2022, impairment charges recognized in the Consolidated Income Statement amounted to $62 million, primarily due to impairments of $61 million recognized in the second quarter. An impairment charge of $59 million was recognized in Cost of net sales for a currently marketed product CGU in the Surgical reportable segment due to higher forecasted research and development costs associated with product redesign and delayed launch date of the next generation product. The CGU was reduced to its recoverable amount of $15 million determined based on the VIU method at the time of impairment. VIU was estimated using net present value techniques utilizing pre-tax cash flows and a discount rate of 7.8%. The remaining impairment charge of $2 million in the second quarter was recognized in Research & development to fully impair an acquired research & development intangible asset in the Vision Care reportable segment which will no longer be used.
The estimates used in calculating net present values involve significant judgement by management and include assumptions with measurement uncertainty. The estimates include cash flow projections for a five-year period based on management forecasts, sales forecasts beyond the five-year period extrapolated using long-term expected growth rates, discount rates and future tax rates. Actual cash flows and values could vary significantly from forecasted future cash flows and related values derived using net present value techniques. Since the cash flow projections are a significant unobservable input, the fair value of the CGUs were classified as Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy.
v3.25.0.1
Deferred tax assets and liabilities
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Income Taxes [Abstract]  
Deferred tax assets and liabilities Deferred tax assets and liabilities
($ millions)Property, plant & equipment
Intangible assets and deductible goodwill
Pensions and other benefit obligations of associatesInventoriesTax loss carry-forwardsOther assets, provisions and accrualsTotal
Gross deferred tax assets at
December 31, 2023
39 267 85 377 194 618 1,580 
Gross deferred tax liabilities at
December 31, 2023
(337)(1,417)— (30)— (150)(1,934)
Net deferred tax balance at
December 31, 2023
(298)(1,150)85 347 194 468 (354)
At December 31, 2023(298)(1,150)85 347 194 468 (354)
(Charged)/credited to income(1)95 11 (15)96 
Credited to equity— — — — 
Credited/(charged) to other comprehensive income— (7)(7)— (28)(41)
Impact of business combinations— (17)— — — (11)
Net deferred tax balance
at December 31, 2024
(298)(1,072)80 351 187 449 (303)
Gross deferred tax assets at
December 31, 2024
34 246 80 384 187 627 1,558 
Gross deferred tax liabilities at
December 31, 2024
(332)(1,318)— (33)— (178)(1,861)
Net deferred tax balance at
December 31, 2024
(298)(1,072)80 351 187 449 (303)
The below table presents the Net deferred tax balance as of December 31, 2024 after offsetting $1.1 billion of deferred tax assets and liabilities within the same tax jurisdiction.
($ millions)At December 31, 2024
Deferred tax assets421 
Deferred tax liabilities(724)
Net deferred tax liabilities(303)
($ millions)Property, plant & equipment
Intangible assets and deductible goodwill
Pensions and other benefit obligations of associatesInventoriesTax loss carry-forwardsOther assets, provisions and accrualsTotal
Gross deferred tax assets at December 31, 202231 79 352 231 642 1,339 
Gross deferred tax liabilities at December 31, 2022(307)(1,529)— (26)— (130)(1,992)
Net deferred tax balance at December 31, 2022(276)(1,525)79 326 231 512 (653)
At December 31, 2022(276)(1,525)79 326 231 512 (653)
(Charged)/credited to income(22)375 — 21 (40)(25)309 
Credited/(charged) to equity— — — — (15)(12)
Credited/(charged) to other comprehensive income— — — — (4)
Net deferred tax balance at December 31, 2023(298)(1,150)85 347 194 468 (354)
Gross deferred tax assets at December 31, 202339 267 85 377 194 618 1,580 
Gross deferred tax liabilities at December 31, 2023(337)(1,417)— (30)— (150)(1,934)
Net deferred tax balance at December 31, 2023(298)(1,150)85 347 194 468 (354)
The below table presents the Net deferred tax balance as of December 31, 2023 after offsetting $1.1 billion of deferred tax assets and liabilities within the same tax jurisdiction.
($ millions)At December 31, 2023
Deferred tax assets443 
Deferred tax liabilities(797)
Net deferred tax liabilities(354)
The below table presents deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities expected to have an impact on current taxes payable after more than twelve months.
($ billions)At December 31, 2024At December 31, 2023
Deferred tax assets1.2 1.2 
Deferred tax liabilities1.7 1.8 
For foreign unremitted earnings retained by consolidated entities for reinvestment, which amounted to $10 billion and $9 billion as of December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively, no provision is made for income taxes that would be payable upon the distribution of these earnings. If these earnings were remitted, an income tax charge could result based on the tax statutes currently in effect.
IFRS exceptions to recognizing taxable temporary differences include an exception to recognizing a deferred tax liability arising on the initial recognition of goodwill from acquisitions. As such, we have not provided a deferred tax for goodwill from acquisitions which amounted to $8.9 billion as of December 31, 2024 and 2023.
The gross value of capital loss carryforwards for which no deferred tax assets were recognized amounted to $83 million at December 31, 2024 ($131 million at December 31, 2023), most of which will expire in two years.
Tax loss carryforwards are capitalized as deferred tax assets to the extent it is probable that sufficient taxable income will be available for the foreseeable future. The below tables present the gross value of tax loss carryforwards that have or have not been recognized as deferred tax assets, with their expiry dates, as of December 31, 2024 and 2023.
($ millions)UnrecognizedRecognized
Total at
December 31, 2024
Within five years55 61 
More than five years443 375 818 
Not subject to expiry— 691 691 
Gross value of tax loss carryforwards
449 1,121 1,570 
($ millions)UnrecognizedRecognized
Total at
December 31, 2023
Within five years29 32 
More than five years443 462 905 
Not subject to expiry— 681 681 
Gross value of tax loss carryforwards
446 1,172 1,618 
Tax losses carried forward of $1 million expired in 2024. No tax losses carried forward expired in 2023 or 2022.
v3.25.0.1
Financial and other non-current assets
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Subclassifications of assets, liabilities and equities [abstract]  
Financial and other non-current assets Financial and other non-current assets
The below tables provide details related to Financial assets and Other non-current assets as of December 31, 2024 and 2023.
Financial assets
($ millions)20242023
Long-term note receivable and other financial assets measured at amortized cost
175 161 
Long-term financial investments measured at FVOCI(1)
282 147 
Long-term financial investments measured at FVPL
Long-term receivables from customers121 126 
Non-current minimum lease payments from finance lease agreements28 38 
Long-term loans, advances and security deposits45 44 
Total financial assets652 517 
(1) Includes $11 million of Long-term convertible notes due from associated companies as of December 31, 2024 and 2023. Refer to Note 24 for additional information.
Minimum lease payments from finance lease agreements
The below table shows the receivables of the gross investments in finance leases and the net present value of the minimum lease payments, as well as unearned finance income, related to surgical equipment lease arrangements. The finance income is recorded in "Other income".
20242023
($ millions)Total future paymentsUnearned interest incomePresent
value
ProvisionNet
book
value
Total future payments Unearned interest income Present
value
Provision Net
book
value
Not later than one year(1)
25 (2)23 — 23 30 (3)27 — 27 
Between one and five years36 (2)34 (8)26 51 (2)49 (12)37 
Later than five years— — — — 
Total63 (4)59 (8)51 82 (5)77 (12)65 
(1) The current portion of the minimum lease payments is recorded in Trade receivables or Other current assets (to the extent not yet invoiced).
Other non-current assets
($ millions)
Note
20242023
Deferred compensation plans180 163 
Prepaid post-employment benefit plans
22
Investments in associated companies
24
293 10 
Other non-current assets115 119 
Total other non-current assets594 298 
v3.25.0.1
Inventories
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Inventories [Abstract]  
Inventories Inventories
The amount of inventory recognized as an expense in "Cost of net sales" in the Consolidated Income Statement during 2024 amounted to $3.0 billion (2023: $2.9 billion, 2022: $2.7 billion). The amount of inventory recognized as an expense in "Cost of other revenues" in the Consolidated Income Statement during 2024 amounted to $71 million (2023: $67 million, 2022: $59 million).
($ millions)20242023
Raw material, consumables438 434 
Work in progress199 197 
Finished products1,631 1,691 
Total inventories2,268 2,322 
Alcon recognized inventory provisions and write-downs amounting to $217 million in 2024 (2023: $206 million, 2022: $200 million) and reversed inventory provisions amounting to $64 million in 2024 (2023: $88 million, 2022: $72 million). Inventory provisions mainly relate to the adjustment of inventory balances to their net realizable value based on the forecasted sales. Reversals are made when the products become salable.
v3.25.0.1
Trade receivables
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Subclassifications of assets, liabilities and equities [abstract]  
Trade receivables Trade receivables
Trade receivable balances include sales to wholesalers, retailers, doctor groups, private health systems, government agencies, pharmacy benefit managers, managed health-care organizations and government-supported healthcare systems. We closely monitor the level of trade receivables in the countries deemed to have an elevated credit risk. We consider macroeconomic and geopolitical environment, country profile and historical experience in addition to other relevant information when assessing the credit risk. Deteriorating credit risk factors may result in an increase in the average length of time that it takes to collect these trade receivables and may require Alcon to reevaluate the expected credit loss amount of these trade receivables in future periods or change the terms on which we operate. As of December 31, 2024, the amounts past due for more than one year in elevated credit risk countries are not significant.
The below tables provide details related to Trade receivables as of December 31, 2024 and 2023, including trade receivables that are not overdue as specified in the payment terms and conditions established with Alcon's customers, as well as an analysis of overdue amounts, expected credit loss rates and related provisions for doubtful trade receivables.
2024
($ millions)Gross trade receivablesProvisionTrade receivables, netExpected credit loss rates
Not overdue1,448 (2)1,446 0.1 %
Past due for not more than one month137 (1)136 0.7 %
Past due for more than one month but less than three months84 (2)82 2.4 %
Past due for more than three months but less than six months49 (3)46 6.1 %
Past due for more than six months but less than one year26 (10)16 38.5 %
Past due for more than one year33 (23)10 69.7 %
Total1,777 (41)1,736 
2023
($ millions)Gross trade receivablesProvisionTrade receivables, netExpected credit loss rates
Not overdue1,452 (2)1,450 0.1 %
Past due for not more than one month143 (1)142 0.7 %
Past due for more than one month but less than three months94 (2)92 2.1 %
Past due for more than three months but less than six months54 (2)52 3.7 %
Past due for more than six months but less than one year35 (13)22 37.1 %
Past due for more than one year36 (24)12 66.7 %
Total1,814 (44)1,770 
The below table summarizes the movement in the provision for doubtful trade receivables.
($ millions)202420232022
January 1(44)(57)(55)
Provisions for doubtful trade receivables charged to the Consolidated Income Statement(24)(26)(40)
Utilization of provisions for doubtful trade receivables14 
Reversal of provisions for doubtful trade receivables19 26 28 
Currency translation effects(1)
December 31(41)(44)(57)
Trade receivables include amounts denominated in the following major currencies:
($ millions)20242023
US dollar (USD)723 680 
Euro (EUR)303 315 
Japanese yen (JPY)138 156 
Chinese yuan (CNY)82 110 
Brazilian real (BRL)51 65 
Canadian dollar (CAD)40 40 
Indian rupee (INR)36 32 
South Korean won (KRW)34 36 
British pound (GBP)33 32 
Turkish lira (TRY)28 21 
Taiwan dollar (TWD)28 26 
Australian dollar (AUD)25 26 
Russian ruble (RUB)24 27 
Mexican peso (MXN)24 32 
Other currencies167 172 
Total trade receivables, net1,736 1,770 
v3.25.0.1
Other current assets
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Subclassifications of assets, liabilities and equities [abstract]  
Other current assets Other current assets
The below table provides details related to Other current assets as of December 31, 2024 and 2023.
($ millions)20242023
Current portion of long-term receivables from customers117 116 
Current portion of minimum lease payments from finance lease agreements23 27 
Current portion of long-term financial investments measured at FVPL
Prepaid expenses117 112 
VAT receivables59 62 
Other receivables, security deposits and current assets124 101 
Derivative financial instruments12 
Total other current assets453 427 
v3.25.0.1
Right-of-use assets and Lease liabilities
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Leases1 [Abstract]  
Right-of-use assets and Lease liabilities Right-of-use assets and Lease liabilities
Right-of-use assets
Right-of-use assets as of December 31, 2024 and 2023 were comprised of the following:
($ millions)20242023
Land21 14 
Buildings392 309 
Machinery & equipment and other assets36 31 
Total right-of-use assets449 354 
Depreciation charges of $83 million, $91 million and $76 million for the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022, respectively, are shown in the table below by underlying class of asset.
($ millions)202420232022
Land
Buildings62 72 58 
Machinery & equipment and other assets20 18 17 
Total depreciation of right-of-use assets83 91 76 
Lease liabilities
Lease liabilities totaled $497 million as of December 31, 2024, including $68 million in current Lease liabilities and $429 million in non-current Lease liabilities. The contractual maturities of the undiscounted lease liabilities as of December 31, 2024 and 2023 are as follows:
Lease liabilities undiscounted
($ millions)20242023
Not later than one year89 86 
Between one and five years244 222 
Later than five years307 205 
Total lease liabilities undiscounted640 513 
Lease liabilities
($ millions)20242023
Not later than one year6871
Between one and five years183 178 
Later than five years246 157 
Total lease liabilities497 406 
Additional disclosures
The below table provides additional disclosures related to Right-of-use assets and Lease liabilities.
($ millions)202420232022
Interest expense on lease liabilities19 17 15 
Expense on short-term, low value and variable leases
Total cash outflows for leases105 99 87 
Thereof:
Lease liability payments(1)
83 79 69 
Interest payments(2)
19 17 15 
Short-term, low value and variable lease payments(2)
(1)     Reported as cash outflows from financing activities net of lease incentives received.
(2)     Included within total net cash flows from operating activities.
v3.25.0.1
Non-current and current financial debts
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Financial Instruments [Abstract]  
Non-current and current financial debts Non-current and current financial debts
The below table summarizes non-current and current Financial debts outstanding as of December 31, 2024 and 2023.
($ millions)20242023
Non-current financial debts
Local facilities (Japan), floating rate debt due 2025(1)
— 110 
2.750% Series 2026 Notes
499 498 
2.375% Series 2028 Notes
517 549 
3.000% Series 2029 Notes
995 994 
2.600% Series 2030 Notes
746 746 
5.375% Series 2032 Notes
694 693 
3.800% Series 2049 Notes
495 494 
5.750% Series 2052 Notes
592 592 
Revolving facility, floating rate due 2029— — 
Total non-current financial debts4,538 4,676 
Current financial debts
Local facilities, floating rate:
Japan(1)
26 — 
All others67 48 
Other short-term financial debts, floating rate
Derivatives10 
Total current financial debts105 63 
Total financial debts4,643 4,739 
(1)     As described in Note 2, Alcon adopted Amendments to IAS 1, Presentation of Financial Statements, effective January 1, 2024, resulting in retrospective reclassification of financial debts of $82 million from current to non-current.
Interest expense recognized for Financial debts, excluding lease liabilities, was $165 million, $162 million and $110 million for the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022, respectively. The weighted average interest rate on Financial debts was 3.5% in 2024 and 2023.
Series 2028 Notes issuance
On May 31, 2022, AFBV issued EUR denominated senior notes due in 2028 ("Series 2028 Notes"). The Series 2028 Notes are unsecured senior obligations of AFBV issued and closed in a public offering and rank equally in right of payment with the Series 2026, Series 2029, Series 2030 and Series 2049 notes. The total principal of the Series 2028 Notes is $521 million (EUR500 million) as of December 31, 2024. The Series 2028 Notes were issued at 99.476% with 2.375% interest payable annually in May, beginning in May 2023. The Series 2028 Notes were issued at a discount totaling $3 million, which was recorded as a reduction to the carrying value of the Series 2028 Notes and will be amortized to Interest expense over the term of the Series 2028 Notes. AFBV incurred $3 million of debt issuance costs, which were recorded as a reduction to the carrying value of the Series 2028 Notes and will be amortized to Other financial income & expense over the term of the Series 2028 Notes.
On May 31, 2022, the funds borrowed through the issuance of the Series 2028 Notes were used to fully repay the $376 million (EUR350 million) Facility C term loan maturing in 2024 and repay $160 million of the $800 million Facility B term loan maturing in 2024. The transactions were accounted for as an extinguishment and partial extinguishment of a liability, respectively. Alcon recognized losses on extinguishment of $1 million associated with the write-off of unamortized deferred financing costs in Other financial income & expense during the second quarter of 2022.
2022 Bridge Loan Facility
On September 14, 2022, AFC executed a $900 million 2022 Bridge Loan Facility with J.P. Morgan Chase Bank, N.A. London Branch. The 2022 Bridge Loan Facility was fully guaranteed by the Company and was restricted for use in funding the acquisition of Aerie. On September 27, 2022, a Syndication Agreement was executed to add more financial institutions as new lenders, effective from September 28, 2022.
On November 21, 2022, in connection with the consummation of the Aerie acquisition, $775 million of the financing commitments were drawn with net proceeds of $771 million used for the acquisition of Aerie. AFC incurred $4 million of debt issuance costs, which were recorded as a reduction to the carrying value of the 2022 Bridge Loan Facility.
Series 2032 Notes and Series 2052 Notes issuance
On December 6, 2022, AFC issued senior notes due in 2032 ("Series 2032 Notes") and 2052 ("Series 2052 Notes"). The Series 2032 Notes and Series 2052 Notes are unsecured senior obligations of AFC issued and closed in a private offering and rank equally in right of payment with the Series 2026, Series 2028, Series 2029, Series 2030 and Series 2049 notes. The principal amounts of the Series 2032 Notes and Series 2052 Notes are $700 million and $600 million, respectively. The Series 2032 Notes and Series 2052 Notes were issued at a discount of $4 million and $2 million, respectively, which were recorded as a reduction to the carrying values of the Series 2032 Notes and Series 2052 Notes and will be amortized to Interest expense over the term of the notes. AFC incurred debt issuance costs of $4 million and $7 million for the Series 2032 Notes and Series 2052 Notes, respectively, which were recorded as a reduction to the carrying values of the Series 2032 Notes and Series 2052 Notes and will be amortized to Other financial income & expense over the term of the notes.
The Notes consist of the following:
•     Series 2032 Notes - $700 million due in 2032 issued at 99.458%, 5.375% interest is payable twice per year in December and June, beginning in June 2023.
•     Series 2052 Notes - $600 million due in 2052 issued at 99.674%, 5.750% interest is payable twice per year in December and June, beginning in June 2023.
Using the funds borrowed through the issuance of the Series 2032 Notes and Series 2052 Notes together with cash, the Company exercised its early redemption rights to fully repay the remaining $640 million Facility B term loan and to fully repay the drawn amount of $775 million under the 2022 Bridge Loan Facility, as required by the mandatory prepayment clause. Consequently, the undrawn commitment of the 2022 Bridge Loan Facility was cancelled. The transactions were
accounted for as extinguishment of liabilities. Alcon recognized losses on extinguishment of $4 million associated with the write-off of unamortized deferred financing costs in Other financial income & expense during the fourth quarter of 2022.
Senior notes assumed in Aerie acquisition
As part of the Aerie acquisition, Alcon assumed Aerie's $316.2 million convertible senior notes due on October 1, 2024. The convertible notes were issued at 1.500% interest payable semi-annually on April 1 and October 1 of each year. Following the delisting of Aerie on November 21, 2022, the senior notes were no longer convertible to equity. On December 20, 2022, Alcon made payments of $316.0 million to note holders. On October 1, 2024, Alcon paid the remaining $0.2 million to the note holders.
Series 2030 Notes issuance
On May 27, 2020, AFC issued senior notes due in 2030 (“Series 2030 Notes”). The Series 2030 Notes are unsecured senior obligations of AFC issued in a private placement and rank equally in right of payment with the Series 2026, Series 2029, and Series 2049 notes. The total principal amount of the Senior 2030 Notes is $750 million. The Senior 2030 Notes were issued at 99.843% with 2.600% interest payable twice per year in May and November, beginning in November 2020. The Series 2030 Notes were issued at a discount totaling $1 million, which was recorded as a reduction to the carrying value of the Series 2030 Notes and will be amortized to Interest expense over the term of the Series 2030 Notes. AFC incurred $5 million of debt issuance costs, which were recorded as a reduction to the carrying value of the Series 2030 Notes and will be amortized to Other financial income & expense over the term of the Series 2030 Notes.
Revolving Credit Facility
On October 27, 2023, the Company and certain of its subsidiaries and a group of commercial banks entered into a refinancing agreement to replace the $1.0 billion unsecured committed multicurrency revolving credit facility maturing in March 2026. The new agreement consists of a $1.32 billion unsecured committed multicurrency revolving credit facility maturing five years after the date of the agreement (the “Refinanced Revolving Facility Agreement”). In the third quarter of 2024, Alcon Inc. exercised its option to extend the maturity of the Revolving Credit Facility for an additional year to October 2029. The Refinanced Revolving Facility Agreement primarily bears interest rates equal to a term reference rate or a compounded reference rate, depending on currency, plus an applicable margin and a term reference rate credit adjustment spread, if applicable. It also includes relevant fallback mechanisms in case of rate unavailability. The Revolving Credit Facility remained undrawn as of December 31, 2024.
Local bilateral facilities
Alcon holds a number of local bilateral facilities in different countries, including Japan. On February 14, 2023, three local bilateral facilities in Japan which matured in February 2023 were refinanced by three facilities with two year maturities. Upon adoption of Amendments to IAS 1 effective January 1, 2024, current financial debts of $82 million for which Alcon has a right to roll over for at least twelve months after the December 31, 2023 balance sheet date were retrospectively reclassified to non-current financial debts.
During the year ended December 31, 2024, changes in financial debts for local bilateral facilities primarily included the movement of balances from non-current to current and payment of certain local bilateral facilities in Japan. There was $118 million undrawn on the facilities in Japan as of December 31, 2024.
Guarantees
The Series 2026, 2028, 2029, 2030, 2032, 2049 and 2052 Notes, the three local bilateral facilities in Japan and the undrawn Revolving Credit Facility are guaranteed by the Company.
Maturity of contractual undiscounted cash flows and interest payment commitments
The below table provides details on the maturity of the contractual undiscounted cash flows for Alcon's borrowings as of December 31, 2024 and 2023.
2024
2023(1)
($ millions)Nominal amount - Current and non-current financial debtDerivativesTotal
Nominal amount - Current and non-current financial debt
DerivativesTotal
Not later than one year101 105 53 10 63 
Between one and five years2,021 — 2,021 1,163 — 1,163 
Later than five years2,550 — 2,550 3,550 — 3,550 
Total contractual undiscounted cash flows4,672 4 4,676 4,766 10 4,776 
Unamortized debt discount and issuance costs(33)— (33)(37)— (37)
Total carrying value4,639 44,6434,729104,739 
(1)     As described in Note 2, Alcon adopted Amendments to IAS 1, Presentation of Financial Statements, effective January 1, 2024, resulting in retrospective reclassification of financial debts of $82 million from current to non-current.
The below table provides details on the maturity of the future contractual interest payments commitments as of December 31, 2024 and 2023.
($ millions)20242023
Not later than one year167 167 
Between one and five years613 643 
Later than five years1,296 1,437 
Total cash flows2,076 2,247 
v3.25.0.1
Financial instruments - additional disclosures
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Financial Instruments [Abstract]  
Financial instruments - additional disclosures Financial instruments - additional disclosures
The below tables provide detail related to financial instruments as of December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023.
($ millions)Note2024
Cash and cash equivalents
Cash in current accounts378 
Cash held in time deposits and money market funds1,298 
Total cash and cash equivalents1,676 
Financial assets - measured at fair value through other comprehensive income ("FVOCI")
Long-term financial investments11282 
Total financial assets - measured at FVOCI282 
Financial assets - measured at amortized cost
Trade receivables131,736 
Current portion of long-term receivables from customers(1)
14117 
Current portion of minimum lease payments from finance lease agreements(1)
1423 
Other receivables, security deposits and current assets(1)
14124 
Time deposits with original maturity greater than three months153 
Long-term note receivable and other financial assets11175 
Long-term receivables from customers11121 
Non-current minimum lease payments from finance lease agreements1128 
Long-term loans, advances and security deposits1145 
Total financial assets - measured at amortized cost2,522 
Financial assets - mandatorily measured at fair value through profit and loss ("FVPL")
Deferred compensation assets(2)
11180 
Current portion of long-term financial investments(1)
14
Derivative financial instruments(1)
1412 
Long-term financial investments11
Total financial assets - mandatorily measured at FVPL194 
Total financial assets4,674 
Financial liabilities - measured at amortized cost or cost
Current financial liabilities
Financial debts16101 
Lease liabilities1568 
Trade payables773 
Total current financial liabilities - measured at amortized cost or cost942 
Non-current financial liabilities
Financial debts164,538 
Lease liabilities15429 
Total non-current financial liabilities - measured at amortized cost or cost4,967 
Total financial liabilities - measured at amortized cost or cost5,909 
Financial liabilities - measured at FVPL
Contingent consideration liabilities1896 
Derivative financial instruments16
Total financial liabilities - measured at FVPL100 
Total financial liabilities6,009 
Net financial assets and financial liabilities(1,335)
(1) Recorded in Other current assets.
(2) Recorded in Other non-current assets.
($ millions)Note2023
Cash and cash equivalents
Cash in current accounts270 
Cash held in time deposits and money market funds824 
Total cash and cash equivalents1,094 
Financial assets - measured at fair value through other comprehensive income ("FVOCI")
Long-term financial investments11147 
Total financial assets - measured at FVOCI147 
Financial assets - measured at amortized cost
Trade receivables131,770 
Income tax receivables34 
Other current assets (excluding prepaid expenses and other current assets measured at FVPL)14306 
Long-term note receivable and other financial assets11161 
Long-term receivables from customers11126 
Non-current minimum lease payments from finance lease agreements1138 
Long-term loans, advances and security deposits1144 
Total financial assets - measured at amortized cost2,479 
Financial assets - mandatorily measured at fair value through profit and loss ("FVPL")
Deferred compensation assets(1)
11163 
Current portion of long-term financial investments(2)
14
Derivative financial instruments(2)
14
Long-term financial investments11
Total financial assets - mandatorily measured at FVPL173 
Total financial assets3,893 
Financial liabilities - measured at amortized cost or cost
Current financial liabilities
Financial debts1653 
Lease liabilities1571 
Trade payables811 
Total current financial liabilities - measured at amortized cost or cost935 
Non-current financial liabilities
Financial debts164,676 
Lease liabilities15335 
Total non-current financial liabilities - measured at amortized cost or cost5,011 
Total financial liabilities - measured at amortized cost or cost5,946 
Financial liabilities - measured at FVPL
Contingent consideration liabilities1890 
Derivative financial instruments1610 
Total financial liabilities - measured at FVPL100 
Total financial liabilities6,046 
Net financial assets and financial liabilities(2,153)
(1) Recorded in Other non-current assets.
(2) Recorded in Other current assets.
Fair value by hierarchy
As required by IFRS, financial assets and liabilities recorded at fair value in the Consolidated Financial Statements are categorized based upon the level of judgment associated with the inputs used to measure their fair value. There are three hierarchical levels, based on an increasing amount of judgment associated with the inputs to derive fair value for these financial assets and liabilities, which are as follows:
Financial assets and liabilities carried at Level 1 fair value hierarchy are listed in active markets.
Financial assets and liabilities carried at Level 2 fair value hierarchy are valued using corroborated market data.
Level 1 financial assets include money market funds, equity securities in public companies and deferred compensation assets. There were no financial liabilities carried at Level 1 fair value, and Level 2 financial assets and liabilities include derivative financial instruments.
Investments in money market funds and equity securities in public companies are classified within Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy because they are valued using quoted market prices. Investments in money market funds are classified as Cash & cash equivalents within the Consolidated Balance Sheet.
Deferred compensation investments for certain employee benefit plans are held in a rabbi trust and dedicated to pay the benefits under the associated plans but are not considered plan assets as the assets remain available to creditors of Alcon in certain events, including bankruptcy. Rabbi trust assets primarily consist of investments in mutual funds. These assets are classified within Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy because they are valued using quoted market prices.
Level 3 inputs are unobservable for the financial asset or liability. Fair value measurements classified as Level 3 are performed primarily using the income approach or market approach. The financial assets and liabilities generally included in the Level 3 fair value hierarchy are equity securities and convertible notes receivable of private companies measured at FVOCI, fund investments, options to acquire private companies, and contingent consideration liabilities measured at FVPL.
The below table summarizes financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023.
 
December 31, 2024
December 31, 2023
($ millions)Level 1Level 2Level 3TotalLevel 1Level 2Level 3Total
Non-current financial assets
Long-term financial investments measured at FVOCI
81 — 201 282 — — 147 147 
Long-term financial investments measured at FVPL
— — 1 — — 1 
Deferred compensation assets
180 — — 180 163 — — 163 
Non-current financial assets at fair value261  202 463 163  148 311 
Current financial assets
Money market funds
432 — — 432 84 — — 84 
Current portion of long-term financial investments measured at FVPL
— — 1 — — 7 
Derivative financial instruments
— 12 — 12 — — 2 
Current financial assets at fair value432 12 1 445 84 2 7 93 
Financial assets at fair value693 12 203 908 247 2 155 404 
Financial liabilities
Contingent consideration liabilities
— — (96)(96)— — (90)(90)
Derivative financial instruments
— (4)— (4)— (10)— (10)
Financial liabilities at fair value (4)(96)(100) (10)(90)(100)
There were no transfers of financial assets or liabilities between levels in the fair value hierarchy during the twelve months ended December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023.
The carrying amount is a reasonable approximation of fair value for all other financial instruments as of December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, with the exception of the Series 2026, 2028, 2029, 2030, 2032, 2049 and 2052 Notes ("Notes") recorded in Non-current financial debt. As of December 31, 2024, the Notes had a fair value of $4,240 million and carrying value of $4,538 million. As of December 31, 2023, the Notes had a fair value of $4,347 million and carrying value of $4,566 million. The fair value of the Notes was determined using Level 2 inputs. The Notes were valued using the quoted market price for such Notes, which have low trading volumes.
Level 3 financial instruments measured at fair value on a recurring basis
Financial assets
Long-term financial investments measured
at FVOCI
Financial investments
measured at FVPL
($ millions)2024202320242023
Balance as of January 1147 88 8 20 
Additions116 67 — 13 
Net gains/(losses) recognized in Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income90 (2)— — 
Net gains/(losses) recognized in Consolidated Income Statement— — (5)
Amortization— — (3)(5)
Transfer to Other non-current assets(132)— — — 
Settlements(20)(6)(5)(15)
Balance as of December 31201 147 2 8 
During the current year period, net gains recognized for Level 3 Long-term financial investments measured at FVOCI primarily relate to a fair value adjustment in the third quarter for an equity interest in a private company. The fair value of the equity interest was determined using the market approach with Level 3 inputs that are not readily observable, primarily prices for similar securities of the same company. During the fourth quarter of 2024, Alcon acquired additional equity interest in that company and classified the investment as an associated company, which is accounted for using the equity method as Alcon is considered to have significant influence. The investment was transferred to Investments in associated companies within "Other non-current assets".
If the pricing parameters for the Level 3 inputs were to change for Long-term financial investments measured at FVOCI and Financial investments measurement at FVPL by 10% positively or negatively, this would change the amount recorded in the 2024 Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income by $20 million.
Financial liabilities
Contingent consideration liabilities
($ millions)20242023
Balance as of January 1(90)(98)
Additions(6)— 
Accretion for passage of time(7)(9)
Adjustments for changes in assumptions17 
Balance as of December 31(96)(90)
Additions to contingent consideration liabilities in the current year period relate to the BELKIN acquisition. Refer to Note 21.1 for additional information.
Changes in contingent consideration liabilities in the current year include fair value adjustments for changes in assumptions of $7 million, primarily due to revised expectations for timing of settlement for development and commercial milestones. As of December 31, 2024, the probability of success for various development and commercial milestones ranges from 0% to 55% and the maximum remaining potential payments related to contingent consideration from business combinations is $780 million, plus other amounts calculated as a percentage of commercial sales in cases where there is not a specified maximum contractual payment amount. The estimation of probability typically depends on factors such as technical milestones or market performance and is adjusted for the probability of payment. If material, probable payments are appropriately discounted to reflect the impact of time.
Changes in contingent consideration liabilities in the prior year included fair value adjustments for changes in assumptions of $17 million, primarily due to revised expectations for timing of settlement and probability of success for development and commercial milestones. As of December 31, 2023, the probability of success for various development and commercial milestones ranged from 3% to 55% and the maximum remaining potential payments related to contingent consideration
from business combinations was $395 million, plus other amounts calculated as a percentage of commercial sales in cases where there is not a specified maximum contractual payment amount.
Contingent consideration liabilities are reported in “Provisions & other non-current liabilities" based on the projected timing of settlement which is estimated to range from 2029 through 2036 for contingent consideration obligations as of December 31, 2024.
For the determination of the fair value of a contingent consideration various unobservable inputs are used. A change in these inputs might result in a significantly higher or lower fair value measurement. The inputs used are, among others, the probability of success, sales forecast and assumptions regarding the discount rate, timing and different scenarios of triggering events. The significance and usage of these inputs to each contingent consideration may vary due to differences in the timing and triggering events for payments or in the nature of the asset related to the contingent consideration.
As the most significant Level 3 input, if the probability of success were to change by 10% positively or negatively, this would change the amount recorded for contingent consideration payables in the 2024 Consolidated Income Statement by $18 million.
Time deposits
During 2024, Alcon purchased time deposits of $150 million with a six-month term maturing on February 17, 2025. The time deposits are measured at amortized cost and had a carrying value of $153 million as of December 31, 2024.
Long-term note receivable and other financial assets measured at amortized cost
On May 22, 2023, Alcon entered into financing arrangements with a long-term supplier, Lifecore Biomedical, Inc. and certain of its affiliates (collectively, “Lifecore”). Alcon provided Lifecore total commitments of $150 million, primarily related to a $142 million senior term loan facility ("Long-term note receivable") maturing on May 22, 2029. The arrangements also include a sale and leaseback agreement for certain machinery and equipment. Transaction costs directly attributable to the acquisition of the financial assets amounting to $4 million were capitalized to financial assets at amortized cost.
The Long-term note receivable bears an annual fixed interest rate of 10%, which is payable in kind (“PIK”) for the first three years, and payable 3% in cash interest and 7% PIK interest thereafter until maturity, unless otherwise elected by Lifecore to pay a greater proportion in cash. The Long-term note receivable is secured by a Pledge and Security agreement (“security agreement”) whereby Alcon is granted first priority security interest in certain collateral, including but not limited to equipment, fixtures, real property and intellectual property. The security agreement is in effect until the payment in full of the term loan facility.
Due to Lifecore's significant financial difficulties at the time the loan was originated, Alcon concluded the financial assets were originated credit-impaired. The lifetime ECL was analyzed at inception and utilized in calculating the credit-adjusted effective interest rate with no impact on the carrying value of the financial assets or effective interest rate of 10%. In addition, as of December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, Alcon assessed there was no lifetime ECL due to the assessment of the collateral under the security agreement.
Derivatives
The below table summarizes the net value of unsettled positions for currency derivatives contracts including swaps, forwards and options as of December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023.
($ millions)December 31, 2024December 31, 2023
Unrealized gains in Other current assets12 
Unrealized losses in Current financial debts(4)(10)
Net value of unsettled positions for derivatives contracts8 (8)
There are master agreements with several banking counterparties for derivatives financial instruments; however, there were no derivative financial instruments meeting the offsetting criteria under IFRS as of December 31, 2024 or December 31, 2023.
Capital management
Alcon manages its capital with the objectives of maintaining the ability to continue as a going concern, allow for investment, mitigate against potential future risks and provide returns to shareholders. The capital structure of Alcon consists of Cash and cash equivalents, Time deposits, Total equity and Total financial debts and is reported to management as part of regular internal review processes. Alcon is not subject to regulatory or other external capital adequacy requirements. As of December 31 2024, Alcon's long-term credit rating with S&P Global Ratings was BBB+ (stable outlook) (2023: BBB+) and with Moody's Investors Service was Baa1 (stable outlook) (2023: Baa2).
Nature and extent of risks arising from financial instruments
Market risk
Alcon is exposed to market risk, primarily related to foreign currency exchange rates, interest rates and the market value of investments, including investments of liquid funds and equity investments. Alcon actively monitors and seeks to reduce, where it deems it appropriate to do so, fluctuations in these exposures. It is Alcon policy and practice to enter into a variety of derivative financial instruments to manage the volatility of these exposures and to enhance the yield on the investment of liquid funds. Alcon does not enter into any financial transactions containing a risk that cannot be quantified at the time the transaction is concluded. In addition, Alcon does not sell short assets it does not have, or does not know it will have, in the future. Alcon only sells existing assets or enters into transactions and future transactions (in the case of anticipatory hedges) that it confidently expects it will have in the future, based on past experience.
In the case of liquid funds, Alcon may write call options on assets it has, or write put options on positions it wants to acquire and has the liquidity to acquire. Alcon expects that any loss in value for these instruments generally would be offset by increases in the value of the underlying transactions. Further, Alcon limits its equity investments to strategic transactions as part of business development activities.
Foreign currency exchange rate and interest rate risks are described in additional detail below.
Foreign currency exchange rate risk
Alcon uses the US Dollar as its reporting currency and is therefore exposed to foreign currency exchange movements, primarily in Euros, Japanese Yen, Chinese Renminbi, Canadian Dollars, Singaporean Dollars, Swiss Francs, Russian Rubles and emerging market currencies. Fluctuations in the exchange rate between the US Dollar and other currencies can have a significant effect on both Alcon’s results of operations, including reported sales and earnings, as well as on the reported value of Alcon's assets, liabilities and cash flows. This, in turn, may significantly affect the comparability of period-to-period results of operations.
Alcon manages its global currency exposure by engaging in hedging transactions where management deems appropriate (forward contracts, options and swaps). Specifically, Alcon enters into various contracts that reflect the changes in the value of foreign currency exchange rates to preserve the value of assets. Refer to Note 2 for information regarding the hyperinflationary economies in which Alcon operates.
Interest rate risk
Alcon's exposure to cash flow interest rate risks arises from the portion of financial debts at variable rates as well as short-term financial investments. Alcon may enter into interest rate swap agreements, in which it exchanges periodic payments based on a notional amount and agreed-upon fixed and variable rate interests. If the interest rates for financial debts at variable rates and short-term financial investments had been higher / lower by 1% in 2024, the income before taxes would have been higher / lower by $11 million from the impacts of interest expense and interest income based on the change in the interest rate. As of December 31, 2024, 98% of Alcon's financial debt is at fixed interest rates, materially reducing exposure to cash flow interest rate risk in the near term. However, Alcon's exposure to cash flow interest rate risk may increase following the maturity of the Series 2026 Notes which have a fixed 2.750% interest rate.
Commodity price risk
Alcon's exposure to commodity price risk arises from inflation and supply chain challenges related to anticipated purchases of certain commodities used as raw materials by Alcon's businesses. A change in those prices may alter the gross margin of a specific business, but generally not by more than 10% of the gross margin and thus below Alcon's risk management tolerance levels. Alcon primarily manages inflationary pressures through pricing actions and productivity initiatives. Based on historical and anticipated price fluctuations, Alcon does not enter into significant forward and option contracts to manage fluctuations in prices of anticipated purchases.
Credit risk
Credit risks arise from the possibility that customers may not be able to settle their obligations as agreed. To manage this risk, Alcon periodically assesses credit risk, assigns individual credit limits, and takes actions to mitigate credit risk where appropriate. Refer to Note 13 for more information.
No customer accounted for 10% or more of Alcon's net sales in 2024, 2023 or 2022.
Credit risk also arises from originated credit-impaired financial assets (Long-term note receivable and other financial assets at amortized cost). The maximum exposure to credit risk is reflected in the carrying value of the assets, which amounted to $176 million as of December 31, 2024, including a non-current portion of $175 million in Financial assets and a current portion of $1 million in Other current assets. As of December 31, 2024, in accordance with the terms of the security agreement, the credit risk exposure is fully mitigated by the collateral, with an estimated amount of approximately $320 million. The estimated amount of collateral decreased approximately 15% from December 31, 2023 based on updated forecasts reflecting recent market data and discounted cash flow analysis. There have been no significant changes in the quality of the collateral or the terms of the signed security agreement. In addition, Alcon performs an ongoing credit evaluation of Lifecore’s financial condition, monitors payment performance and assesses current economic conditions, as well as reasonable and supportable forecasts of future economic conditions, that may affect collectability of the outstanding financial assets.
Liquidity risk
Liquidity risk is defined as the risk that Alcon may not be able to settle or meet its obligations on time or at a reasonable price. Alcon Treasury is responsible for liquidity, funding and settlement management. In addition, liquidity and funding risks, and related processes and policies, are overseen by management. Alcon manages its liquidity risk on a consolidated basis according to business needs, tax, capital or regulatory considerations, if applicable, through numerous sources of financing in order to maintain flexibility. Alcon's cash and cash equivalents are maintained at a number of financial institutions. To mitigate the risk of uninsured balances, management selects financial institutions based on their credit ratings and financial strength, and performs ongoing evaluations of these institutions to limit our concentration risk exposure. Management monitors Alcon's net debt or liquidity position through rolling forecasts on the basis of expected cash flows. Refer to Note 16 for further information on maturity of the contractual undiscounted cash flows for Alcon's borrowings and interest on borrowings.
v3.25.0.1
Provisions and other non-current liabilities
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Subclassifications of assets, liabilities and equities [abstract]  
Provisions and other non-current liabilities Provisions and other non-current liabilities
The below table provides details related to Provisions and other non-current liabilities as of December 31, 2024 and 2023.
($ millions)Note20242023
Accrued liability for employee benefits:
Defined benefit pension plans22198 221 
Other post-employment benefits22208 213 
Other long-term employee benefits and deferred compensation205 184 
Provisions for litigation and other legal matters— — 
Contingent consideration1796 90 
Deferred income86 32 
Other non-current liabilities32 44 
Total provisions and other non-current liabilities825 784 
Alcon believes that its total provisions are adequate based upon currently available information. However, given the inherent difficulties in estimating liabilities in this area, Alcon may incur additional costs beyond the amounts provided. Management believes that such additional amounts, if any, would not be material to Alcon's financial condition but could be material to the results of operations or cash flows in a given period.
Provisions for litigation and other legal matters
Alcon has established provisions for certain litigation and other legal matters, where a potential cash outflow is probable and a reliable estimate can be made of the amount of the outflow. These provisions represent the current best estimate of the total financial effect for these matters. Potential cash outflows reflected in a provision may be fully or partially offset by insurance in certain circumstances.
Alcon has not established provisions for potential damage awards for certain additional legal claims if Alcon currently believes that a payment is either not probable or cannot be reliably estimated. A number of other legal matters are in such early stages or the issues presented are such that Alcon has not made any provisions since it cannot currently estimate either a potential outcome or the amount of any potential losses. For these reasons, among others, Alcon generally is unable to make a reliable estimate of possible loss with respect to such cases. It is therefore not practicable to provide information about the potential financial impact of those cases.
There might also be cases for which Alcon was able to make a reliable estimate of the possible loss or the range of possible loss, but Alcon believes that publication of such information on a case-by-case basis would prejudice Alcon's position in ongoing legal proceedings or in any related settlement discussions. Accordingly, in such cases, information would be disclosed with respect to the nature of the contingency, but no disclosure is provided as to an estimate of the possible loss or range of possible loss.
Note 25 contains additional information on contingencies.
Summary of significant legal proceedings
A number of Alcon companies are, and will likely continue to be, subject to various legal proceedings and investigations that arise from time to time, including proceedings regarding product liability, sales and marketing practices, commercial disputes, mergers and acquisitions, employment, wrongful discharge, antitrust, securities, health and safety, environmental, tax, international trade, privacy, intellectual property, including under the Hatch-Waxman Act, and anti-bribery matters such as those under the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act of 1977 ("FCPA"), as amended.
As a result, Alcon may become subject to substantial liabilities that may not be covered by insurance and could affect Alcon's business, financial position and reputation. While Alcon does not believe that any of these legal proceedings will have a material adverse effect on its financial position, litigation is inherently unpredictable and large judgments sometimes occur. As a consequence, Alcon may in the future incur judgments or enter into settlements of claims that could have a material adverse effect on its results of operations or cash flow. The following is a summary as of February 25, 2025 of significant legal proceedings to which Alcon or its subsidiaries were or are currently a party.
Hoya patent dispute
On December 11, 2020, Hoya Corporation and one of its affiliates (collectively, "Hoya") filed suit against Alcon in the US District Court for the Northern District of Texas alleging that Alcon's UltraSert Pre-Loaded Delivery System infringes six of Hoya's US patents. On January 11, 2024, the court granted Alcon’s motion for summary judgment of non-infringement with respect to three of the six asserted patents and certain claims of the other three asserted patents, and also granted Alcon’s motion for summary judgment with respect to Hoya’s claim that Alcon’s alleged infringement was willful. This matter was fully and finally resolved prior to the trial scheduled to begin on February 20, 2024.
Hatch-Waxman patent litigation
From time to time, Alcon is a party to certain patent infringement proceedings in the US in connection with Notices of Paragraph IV Certification under the Hatch-Waxman Act received from third-party generic manufacturers respecting their applications for generic versions of certain products sold by or on behalf of Alcon, including Simbrinza, Pataday, Rhopressa and Rocklatan, or other similar suits.
During the third quarter of 2022, Alcon received a Paragraph IV Certification Letter under the Hatch-Waxman Act notifying Alcon that a generic drug company filed an application with the FDA seeking pre-patent expiry approval to sell a generic version of Simbrinza (brinzolamide/brimonidine tartrate ophthalmic suspension) 1%/0.2%. In October 2022, Alcon filed a patent infringement lawsuit in the US District Court for the District of Delaware against that generic drug company. The lawsuit, which asserted two patents, automatically stayed FDA approval of the generic drug application for up to 30 months from receipt of the Paragraph IV Certification Letter (or earlier if the court rendered a decision adverse to Alcon). In August 2024, the court granted in part the generic drug company defendants’ motion for summary judgment of non-infringement of the asserted patents. A trial on the remaining patent claims was held on October 21, 2024 through October 23, 2024. On February 5, 2025, the Court issued Findings of Fact and Conclusions of Law concerning the patent claims, and the defenses to those claims, that were the subject of the trial. The Court ruled that Alcon did not prove by a preponderance of the evidence that the defendant’s proposed generic version of Simbrinza infringed the patent claims asserted at the trial. The Court also ruled that the generic drug company defendant did not prove by clear and convincing evidence that those patent claims were invalid. Alcon intends to appeal the Court’s February 5, 2025 ruling of non-infringement as well as certain other of the Court’s prior rulings.
On January 31, 2022, prior to Alcon's acquisition of Aerie, Aerie received three Paragraph IV Certification Letters under the Hatch-Waxman Act notifying Aerie that three generic drug companies had filed applications to the FDA seeking pre-patent expiry approval to sell generic versions of Rhopressa and/or Rocklatan. On March 14, 2022, Aerie filed patent infringement lawsuits in the US District Court for the District of New Jersey against those generic drug companies. These lawsuits automatically stayed FDA approval of the generic drug applications for up to 30 months from receipt of the respective Paragraph IV Certification Letters (or earlier if a court rendered a decision adverse to Alcon). The lawsuits were consolidated into a single case. During 2024, Alcon fully and finally resolved the patent infringement claims brought against the defendants.
Civil Investigative Demand
In July 2024, Alcon received a Civil Investigative Demand from the US Department of Justice (“DoJ”) in connection with a civil investigation under the False Claims Act relating to discounts on surgical equipment servicing contracts. Alcon is cooperating with the DoJ.
Litigation and other legal matters provision movements
($ millions)202420232022
January 16 206 53 
Additions to provisions15 175 
Cash payments(13)(201)(21)
Releases of provisions(4)(2)(1)
December 314 6 206 
Less current portion(4)(6)(206)
Non-current provisions for litigation and other legal matters at December 31   
Alcon believes that its total provisions for litigation and other legal matters are adequate based upon currently available information. However, given the inherent difficulties in estimating liabilities, additional liabilities and costs may be incurred beyond the amounts provided.
Provisions and other current liabilities
The below table provides details related to Provisions and other current liabilities as of December 31, 2024 and 2023.
($ millions)Note20242023
Accruals for compensation and benefits including social security531 550
Accruals for deductions from revenue396 394 
Deferred income73 78 
Taxes other than income taxes59 71 
Restructuring provisions— 29 
Accrued expenses for goods and services received but not invoiced65 86 
Accruals for royalties11 11 
Provisions for litigation and other legal matters18
Accrued equity-based payments11 13 
Accrued interest on financial debts32 32 
Other payables46 69 
Total provisions and other current liabilities1,228 1,339 
Provisions and accruals are based upon management's best estimate and adjusted for actual experience. Such adjustments to the historical estimates have not been material.
Accruals for deductions from revenue
The below table shows the movement of accruals for deductions from revenue.
($ millions)202420232022
January 1394 386 264 
Additions1,256 1,235 878 
Impact of business combinations— — 86 
Payments/utilizations(1,243)(1,218)(829)
Changes in offset against gross trade receivables(8)(3)
Currency translation effects(12)(1)(10)
December 31396 394 386 
Restructuring provisions
The below table shows the movement of restructuring provisions.
($ millions)202420232022
January 129 64 17 
Additions— 39 72 
Cash payments(27)(74)(24)
Releases(1)— (1)
Currency translation effects(1)— — 
December 31 29 64 
There were no additions to restructuring provisions in 2024. In 2023 and 2022, additions to restructuring provisions of $39 million and $72 million, respectively, were primarily related to the multi-year transformation program initially announced by Alcon on November 19, 2019, subsequently expanded as announced on November 15, 2022 and completed in the fourth quarter of 2023. The costs were mainly related to accrued severance for the associates whose positions were eliminated.
v3.25.0.1
Provisions and other current liabilities
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Subclassifications of assets, liabilities and equities [abstract]  
Provisions and other current liabilities Provisions and other non-current liabilities
The below table provides details related to Provisions and other non-current liabilities as of December 31, 2024 and 2023.
($ millions)Note20242023
Accrued liability for employee benefits:
Defined benefit pension plans22198 221 
Other post-employment benefits22208 213 
Other long-term employee benefits and deferred compensation205 184 
Provisions for litigation and other legal matters— — 
Contingent consideration1796 90 
Deferred income86 32 
Other non-current liabilities32 44 
Total provisions and other non-current liabilities825 784 
Alcon believes that its total provisions are adequate based upon currently available information. However, given the inherent difficulties in estimating liabilities in this area, Alcon may incur additional costs beyond the amounts provided. Management believes that such additional amounts, if any, would not be material to Alcon's financial condition but could be material to the results of operations or cash flows in a given period.
Provisions for litigation and other legal matters
Alcon has established provisions for certain litigation and other legal matters, where a potential cash outflow is probable and a reliable estimate can be made of the amount of the outflow. These provisions represent the current best estimate of the total financial effect for these matters. Potential cash outflows reflected in a provision may be fully or partially offset by insurance in certain circumstances.
Alcon has not established provisions for potential damage awards for certain additional legal claims if Alcon currently believes that a payment is either not probable or cannot be reliably estimated. A number of other legal matters are in such early stages or the issues presented are such that Alcon has not made any provisions since it cannot currently estimate either a potential outcome or the amount of any potential losses. For these reasons, among others, Alcon generally is unable to make a reliable estimate of possible loss with respect to such cases. It is therefore not practicable to provide information about the potential financial impact of those cases.
There might also be cases for which Alcon was able to make a reliable estimate of the possible loss or the range of possible loss, but Alcon believes that publication of such information on a case-by-case basis would prejudice Alcon's position in ongoing legal proceedings or in any related settlement discussions. Accordingly, in such cases, information would be disclosed with respect to the nature of the contingency, but no disclosure is provided as to an estimate of the possible loss or range of possible loss.
Note 25 contains additional information on contingencies.
Summary of significant legal proceedings
A number of Alcon companies are, and will likely continue to be, subject to various legal proceedings and investigations that arise from time to time, including proceedings regarding product liability, sales and marketing practices, commercial disputes, mergers and acquisitions, employment, wrongful discharge, antitrust, securities, health and safety, environmental, tax, international trade, privacy, intellectual property, including under the Hatch-Waxman Act, and anti-bribery matters such as those under the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act of 1977 ("FCPA"), as amended.
As a result, Alcon may become subject to substantial liabilities that may not be covered by insurance and could affect Alcon's business, financial position and reputation. While Alcon does not believe that any of these legal proceedings will have a material adverse effect on its financial position, litigation is inherently unpredictable and large judgments sometimes occur. As a consequence, Alcon may in the future incur judgments or enter into settlements of claims that could have a material adverse effect on its results of operations or cash flow. The following is a summary as of February 25, 2025 of significant legal proceedings to which Alcon or its subsidiaries were or are currently a party.
Hoya patent dispute
On December 11, 2020, Hoya Corporation and one of its affiliates (collectively, "Hoya") filed suit against Alcon in the US District Court for the Northern District of Texas alleging that Alcon's UltraSert Pre-Loaded Delivery System infringes six of Hoya's US patents. On January 11, 2024, the court granted Alcon’s motion for summary judgment of non-infringement with respect to three of the six asserted patents and certain claims of the other three asserted patents, and also granted Alcon’s motion for summary judgment with respect to Hoya’s claim that Alcon’s alleged infringement was willful. This matter was fully and finally resolved prior to the trial scheduled to begin on February 20, 2024.
Hatch-Waxman patent litigation
From time to time, Alcon is a party to certain patent infringement proceedings in the US in connection with Notices of Paragraph IV Certification under the Hatch-Waxman Act received from third-party generic manufacturers respecting their applications for generic versions of certain products sold by or on behalf of Alcon, including Simbrinza, Pataday, Rhopressa and Rocklatan, or other similar suits.
During the third quarter of 2022, Alcon received a Paragraph IV Certification Letter under the Hatch-Waxman Act notifying Alcon that a generic drug company filed an application with the FDA seeking pre-patent expiry approval to sell a generic version of Simbrinza (brinzolamide/brimonidine tartrate ophthalmic suspension) 1%/0.2%. In October 2022, Alcon filed a patent infringement lawsuit in the US District Court for the District of Delaware against that generic drug company. The lawsuit, which asserted two patents, automatically stayed FDA approval of the generic drug application for up to 30 months from receipt of the Paragraph IV Certification Letter (or earlier if the court rendered a decision adverse to Alcon). In August 2024, the court granted in part the generic drug company defendants’ motion for summary judgment of non-infringement of the asserted patents. A trial on the remaining patent claims was held on October 21, 2024 through October 23, 2024. On February 5, 2025, the Court issued Findings of Fact and Conclusions of Law concerning the patent claims, and the defenses to those claims, that were the subject of the trial. The Court ruled that Alcon did not prove by a preponderance of the evidence that the defendant’s proposed generic version of Simbrinza infringed the patent claims asserted at the trial. The Court also ruled that the generic drug company defendant did not prove by clear and convincing evidence that those patent claims were invalid. Alcon intends to appeal the Court’s February 5, 2025 ruling of non-infringement as well as certain other of the Court’s prior rulings.
On January 31, 2022, prior to Alcon's acquisition of Aerie, Aerie received three Paragraph IV Certification Letters under the Hatch-Waxman Act notifying Aerie that three generic drug companies had filed applications to the FDA seeking pre-patent expiry approval to sell generic versions of Rhopressa and/or Rocklatan. On March 14, 2022, Aerie filed patent infringement lawsuits in the US District Court for the District of New Jersey against those generic drug companies. These lawsuits automatically stayed FDA approval of the generic drug applications for up to 30 months from receipt of the respective Paragraph IV Certification Letters (or earlier if a court rendered a decision adverse to Alcon). The lawsuits were consolidated into a single case. During 2024, Alcon fully and finally resolved the patent infringement claims brought against the defendants.
Civil Investigative Demand
In July 2024, Alcon received a Civil Investigative Demand from the US Department of Justice (“DoJ”) in connection with a civil investigation under the False Claims Act relating to discounts on surgical equipment servicing contracts. Alcon is cooperating with the DoJ.
Litigation and other legal matters provision movements
($ millions)202420232022
January 16 206 53 
Additions to provisions15 175 
Cash payments(13)(201)(21)
Releases of provisions(4)(2)(1)
December 314 6 206 
Less current portion(4)(6)(206)
Non-current provisions for litigation and other legal matters at December 31   
Alcon believes that its total provisions for litigation and other legal matters are adequate based upon currently available information. However, given the inherent difficulties in estimating liabilities, additional liabilities and costs may be incurred beyond the amounts provided.
Provisions and other current liabilities
The below table provides details related to Provisions and other current liabilities as of December 31, 2024 and 2023.
($ millions)Note20242023
Accruals for compensation and benefits including social security531 550
Accruals for deductions from revenue396 394 
Deferred income73 78 
Taxes other than income taxes59 71 
Restructuring provisions— 29 
Accrued expenses for goods and services received but not invoiced65 86 
Accruals for royalties11 11 
Provisions for litigation and other legal matters18
Accrued equity-based payments11 13 
Accrued interest on financial debts32 32 
Other payables46 69 
Total provisions and other current liabilities1,228 1,339 
Provisions and accruals are based upon management's best estimate and adjusted for actual experience. Such adjustments to the historical estimates have not been material.
Accruals for deductions from revenue
The below table shows the movement of accruals for deductions from revenue.
($ millions)202420232022
January 1394 386 264 
Additions1,256 1,235 878 
Impact of business combinations— — 86 
Payments/utilizations(1,243)(1,218)(829)
Changes in offset against gross trade receivables(8)(3)
Currency translation effects(12)(1)(10)
December 31396 394 386 
Restructuring provisions
The below table shows the movement of restructuring provisions.
($ millions)202420232022
January 129 64 17 
Additions— 39 72 
Cash payments(27)(74)(24)
Releases(1)— (1)
Currency translation effects(1)— — 
December 31 29 64 
There were no additions to restructuring provisions in 2024. In 2023 and 2022, additions to restructuring provisions of $39 million and $72 million, respectively, were primarily related to the multi-year transformation program initially announced by Alcon on November 19, 2019, subsequently expanded as announced on November 15, 2022 and completed in the fourth quarter of 2023. The costs were mainly related to accrued severance for the associates whose positions were eliminated.
v3.25.0.1
Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows - additional details
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Cash Flow Statement [Abstract]  
Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows - additional details Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows - additional details
The Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows was prepared in accordance with IAS 7, Statement of Cash Flows. The below tables provide additional detail supporting select line items in the Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows.
20.1 Depreciation, amortization, impairments and fair value adjustments
($ millions)202420232022
Property, plant & equipment393 385 332 
Right-of-use assets83 91 76 
Intangible assets752 745 715 
Financial assets— (14)
Other non-current assets(2)(2)
Total1,226 1,226 1,111 
20.2 Change in net current assets and other operating cash flow items
($ millions)202420232022
(Increase) in inventories(47)(271)(217)
(Increase) in trade receivables(55)(110)(164)
(Decrease) in trade payables(15)(51)(48)
Net change in other operating assets(28)(23)(63)
Net change in other operating liabilities(44)51 (30)
Total(189)(404)(522)
20.3 Reconciliation of assets and liabilities arising from financing activities
Financial Liabilities
($ millions)Non-current financial debtsCurrent financial debtsNon-current lease liabilitiesCurrent lease liabilities
January 1, 2024(1)
4,676 63 335 71 
Repayment of financial debts— (47)
Proceeds from financial debts, net of issuance costs— 59 
Additions to leases170 21 
Other net changes in financial debts— (66)
Amortization of discounts on financial debts— 
Payments of lease liabilities, net— (83)
Interest payments for amounts included in lease liabilities classified as cash flows from operating activities— (19)
Changes in fair values and other non-cash changes, net(6)(1)16 
Currency translation effects(39)(2)(10)(3)
Reclassification from non-current to current(104)104 (65)65 
December 31, 20244,538 105 429 68 
(1)     As described in Note 2, Alcon adopted Amendments to IAS 1, Presentation of Financial Statements, effective January 1, 2024, resulting in retrospective reclassification of financial debts of $82 million from current to non-current.
Financial Liabilities
($ millions)Non-current financial debtsCurrent financial debtsNon-current lease liabilitiesCurrent lease liabilities
January 1, 2023
4,541 107 359 71 
Repayment of financial debts— (34)
Proceeds from financial debts, net of issuance costs29 40 
Additions to leases48 15 
Other net changes in financial debts
— 37 
Amortization of discounts on financial debts— 
Payments of lease liabilities, net— (79)
Interest payments for amounts included in lease liabilities classified as cash flows from operating activities— (17)
Changes in fair values and other non-cash changes, net(1)(4)11 
Currency translation effects
19 (4)— 
Reclassification between non-current and current(1)
82 (82)(70)70 
December 31, 2023(1)
4,676 63 335 71 
(1)     As described in Note 2, Alcon adopted Amendments to IAS 1, Presentation of Financial Statements, effective January 1, 2024, resulting in retrospective reclassification of financial debts of $82 million from current to non-current.

Financial Liabilities
($ millions)Non-current financial debtsCurrent financial debtsNon-current lease liabilitiesCurrent lease liabilities
January 1, 20223,966 114 339 67 
Repayment of financial debts(1,176)(1,091)
Proceeds from financial debts, net of issuance costs1,815 771 
Impact from business combination— 316 22 
Additions to leases68 13 
Impact of asset acquisitions
Other net changes in financial debts— (42)
Amortization of discounts on financial debts— 
Payments of lease liabilities, net— (69)
Interest payments for amounts included in lease liabilities classified as cash flows from operating activities— (15)
Changes in fair values and other non-cash changes, net(2)13 
Currency translation effects(23)(16)(10)(4)
Reclassification from non-current to current(47)47 (60)60 
December 31, 20224,541 107 359 71 

20.4 Additional disclosure of non-cash investing and financing activities
($ millions)202420232022
Treasury stock issued for settlement of equity-based compensation plan, net of withholding taxes109 107 128 
Non-cash additions of right-of-use assets in exchange for a lease liability191 63 81 
Non-cash additions of property, plant & equipment53 55 62 
Non-cash additions of intangible assets13 16 105 
Non-cash additions of financial assets118 — — 
v3.25.0.1
Acquisitions, divestment of product rights and out-licensing
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Business Combinations, Asset Acquisitions and Disposals [Abstract]  
Acquisitions, divestment of product rights and out-licensing Acquisitions, divestment of product rights and out-licensing
21.1 Acquisitions of businesses
Fair value of assets and liabilities arising from acquisition of businesses
During 2024 and 2022, acquisition of businesses included BELKIN Vision Ltd. and Aerie Pharmaceuticals Inc., respectively, described below. There were no acquisitions of businesses in 2023.
Surgical - Acquisition of BELKIN Vision Ltd.
On July 1, 2024, Alcon acquired 100% of the outstanding shares and equity of BELKIN as provided under the Agreement. This transaction complements Alcon’s existing Surgical portfolio in the treatment of glaucoma. The acquisition was accounted for as a business combination that resulted in goodwill of $20 million after the PPA of the consideration to the fair values of acquired assets and assumed liabilities. The total purchase consideration amounted to $92 million, including $20 million of previously-held FVOCI financial investments in BELKIN. Total cash paid at closing for the net identifiable assets recognized, net of cash acquired, was $61 million. Additional cash of $1 million was paid during the fourth quarter of 2024 and classified as a financing activity within the Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows.
Under the Agreement, there are additional amounts, up to $385 million, to be potentially paid upon achievement of certain commercial milestones if annual sales exceed defined targets within defined periods after closing. The contingent consideration recognized during the third quarter of 2024 totaled $6 million, which represents its fair value (Level 3) at the acquisition date.
The below table summarizes the PPA for the BELKIN business combination which was finalized in the third quarter of 2024.
($ millions)
Final PPA
Property, plant and equipment
Currently marketed products75 
Deferred tax assets
Inventories
Cash and cash equivalents
Other current assets
Deferred tax liabilities(17)
Provisions and other current liabilities(1)
Net identifiable assets acquired72 
Goodwill20 
Total purchase consideration92 
Acquired liquidity(3)
Net assets recognized as a result of business combinations89 
Purchase consideration
Cash paid at closing64 
Cash expected to be paid after closing
Previously-held FVOCI financial investments20 
Contingent consideration
Total purchase consideration92 
The goodwill is primarily attributable to buyer-specific synergies and assembled workforce. The goodwill is not deductible for tax purposes.
Direct acquisition costs of $1 million were recognized in Other expense in the 2024 Consolidated Income Statement and were reported in operating cash flows in the 2024 Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows.
Pro forma financial information is not presented for the BELKIN business acquisition as it is not material to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
Post-acquisition net sales and net loss attributable to BELKIN
For the period from the date of the BELKIN acquisition, July 1, 2024, through December 31, 2024, the acquired business increased Alcon's 2024 Net sales by $1 million and reduced Alcon's 2024 Net income by $4 million.
Vision care - Acquisition of Aerie Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
On November 21, 2022, Alcon acquired 100% of the outstanding shares and equity of Aerie, a pharmaceutical company focused on the discovery, development, manufacturing and commercialization of first-in-class ophthalmic therapies. The acquisition includes with the business among other assets, two commercial pharmaceutical ophthalmic eye drop products, Rocklatan and Rhopressa, as well as AR-15512, a Phase 3 product candidate for dry eye disease, and a pipeline of several ophthalmic pharmaceutical product candidates. This transaction helps bolster Alcon’s presence in the ocular health space with its portfolio of commercial products and development pipeline within the Vision Care reportable segment. Pursuant to the terms of the Agreement and Plan of Merger, Alcon paid $15.25 per share to acquire all outstanding shares of Aerie. The total purchase consideration amounted to $744 million and total cash paid for the net identifiable assets recognized, net of cash acquired, was $666 million.
The preliminary PPA for the Aerie acquisition was not finalized as of the date the 2022 financial statements were issued as the fair values of the acquired assets and assumed liabilities were provisional pending final measurement of the purchase consideration. Alcon's Consolidated Financial Statements as of December 31, 2022 reflected the allocation of the purchase price based on a preliminary fair value assessment of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed. The PPA was subsequently finalized during the third quarter of 2023 and resulted in the reversal of a tax reserve with a corresponding decrease in goodwill. The below table summarizes the final PPA for the Aerie business combination as of December 31, 2023.
($ millions)Preliminary PPAMeasurement period adjustmentsFinal PPA
Property, plant and equipment27 — 27 
Right-of-use assets29 — 29 
Currently marketed products850 — 850 
Acquired in-process research & development175 — 175 
Deferred tax assets189 — 189 
Inventories49 — 49 
Trade receivables70 — 70 
Short-term investments79 — 79 
Cash and cash equivalents78 — 78 
Other assets15 — 15 
Lease liabilities(27)— (27)
Deferred tax liabilities(255)— (255)
Provisions and other non-current and current liabilities(235)— (235)
Current income tax liabilities(46)44 (2)
Trade payables(3)— (3)
Financial debts(316)— (316)
Net identifiable assets acquired679 44 723 
Goodwill65 (44)21 
Total purchase consideration744  744 
Acquired liquidity(78)— (78)
Net assets recognized as a result of business combinations666  666 
Alcon retrospectively adjusted the provisional amounts that were recognized at acquisition date, resulting in Current income tax liabilities of $175 million and Goodwill of $8,926 million as of December 31, 2022.
The short-term investments were liquidated in 2022 subsequent to the acquisition.
Provisions and other non-current liabilities recognized at the Aerie acquisition date included a contingent liability related to uncertainty associated with potential contractual payment obligations tied to the assertion of certain third party patents in certain markets. During the third quarter of 2023, the contingent liability of $58 million was released and recognized in Other income following the resolution of the uncertainty.
The goodwill is attributable to assembled workforce and pharmaceutical research and development capabilities, including early stage compounds under development. The goodwill is not deductible for tax purposes.
Direct acquisition costs of $20 million were recognized in Other expense in the 2022 Consolidated Income Statement and were reported in operating cash flows in the 2022 Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows.
Post-acquisition net sales and net loss attributable to Aerie
For the period from the date of the Aerie acquisition, November 21, 2022, through December 31, 2022, the acquired business increased Alcon's 2022 Net sales by $16 million and reduced Alcon's 2022 Net income by $32 million.
Unaudited Alcon consolidated pro forma net sales and net income
If the Aerie acquisition had occurred on January 1, 2022, unaudited consolidated pro forma net sales and net income for the twelve months ended December 31, 2022 would have been approximately $8,776 million and $192 million, respectively. This pro forma information is presented for illustrative purposes only and may not be indicative of the results of operations that would have actually occurred. In addition, future results may vary significantly from the results reflected in the pro forma information. These estimated amounts have been calculated using Aerie's results of operation beginning January 1, 2022 and adjusting them for:
alignment of the accounting policies between Alcon and Aerie;
additional amortization that would have been charged assuming the fair value adjustments to inventories and intangible assets had been applied from January 1, 2022;
add back of interest expense from Aerie's convertible senior notes to pro forma net income assuming senior notes would have been repaid on January 1, 2022;
additional interest expense that would have been recorded assuming the Series 2032 Notes and Series 2052 Notes were issued on January 1, 2022 to the extent the proceeds were used to refinance the 2022 Bridge Loan Facility;
exclusion of Aerie's pre-acquisition transaction costs; and
tax effects of the above adjustments.
21.2 Acquisitions of assets
During 2024, there were no acquisitions of assets recognized under IFRS 3, Business Combinations.
Acquisitions of assets in 2023 amounted to $2 million.
During 2022, cash paid for acquisitions of assets, net of cash acquired, was $485 million, the most significant of which was $477 million paid for Ivantis, Inc., described below.
The below table summarizes the PPA for asset acquisitions for the year ended December 31, 2022.
($ millions)2022
Currently marketed products385 
Acquired in-process research & development10 
Other intangible assets (including software)12 
Deferred tax assets57 
Trade receivables10 
Inventory16 
Cash and cash equivalents
Other assets
Trade payables and other liabilities(11)
Net identifiable assets acquired489 
Acquired liquidity(4)
Net assets recognized as a result of asset acquisitions485 
Surgical - Acquisition of Ivantis, Inc.
On January 7, 2022, Alcon acquired 100% of the outstanding shares and equity of Ivantis, Inc., a privately-held, US-based company and manufacturer of the Hydrus Microstent, a MIGS device designed to lower intraocular pressure for open-angle glaucoma patients. The acquisition expands Alcon’s surgical portfolio and is expected to help provide a platform for more growth in the glaucoma space. Pursuant to the terms and subject to the conditions of the Option Agreement and Plan of Merger, as amended, Alcon agreed to pay total upfront consideration of $479 million and additional amounts to be potentially paid upon achievement of a development milestone and commercial milestones calculated as a percentage of sales in excess of defined targets. The commercial milestones were not achieved and expired in 2024.
The acquisition was accounted for as an asset acquisition rather than a business combination as substantially all of the fair value of the gross assets acquired is concentrated in the value of the Hydrus Microstent commercially marketed product intangible assets, being a group of identifiable assets. Consequently, a relative fair value approach was taken for allocating the consideration to the acquired assets and liabilities with no goodwill recognized.
During 2022, total cash paid for the acquisition, net of cash acquired, was $477 million. Direct acquisition costs of $2 million were capitalized.
21.3 Divestment of product rights and out-licensing in China
On October 17, 2024, Alcon closed on a set of definitive agreements to divest its rights in China in favor of Ocumension to Bion Tears and Tears Naturale (reported in Vision Care segment) and procedural eye drops (reported in Surgical segment). Under the terms of the agreements, Ocumension licensed the exclusive commercialization rights to Systane Ultra in China and development and commercialization rights to AR-15512 in China. In exchange, Alcon received up-front consideration of $116 million in the form of approximately 16.7% of the ordinary shares of Ocumension, which Alcon is holding as a strategic investment and was designated at the closing date as Financial assets valued at FVOCI (Level 1). Related transaction costs of $2 million were also capitalized. Alcon will also receive royalties and defined AR-15512 sales milestones. There are additional amounts, up to $50 million, to be potentially received upon achievement of certain commercial milestones.
With the exception of Systane Ultra, the transaction was accounted for during the fourth quarter of 2024 as a divestment of product rights resulting in a net gain of approximately $57 million recognized in Other income in the Consolidated Income Statement. The net carrying value of the divested rights in China was approximately $2 million.
For Systane Ultra, the transaction will be accounted for as a supply agreement over the 15-year licensing term. The current and non-current portions of the up-front consideration allocated to the supply agreement, which amounted to $2 million and $54 million, respectively, were recorded as deferred income on the Consolidated Balance Sheet and will be recognized as Other revenues over the licensing term. Royalty revenues will be recognized in Other revenues in the Consolidated Income Statement as they are earned.
v3.25.0.1
Post-employment benefits for associates
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Employee Benefits [Abstract]  
Post-employment benefits for associates Post-employment benefits for associates
Defined benefit plans
In addition to the legally required social security schemes, Alcon has sponsored numerous independent pension and other post-employment benefit plans. In most cases, these plans are externally funded in entities that are legally separate from Alcon. For certain subsidiaries, however, no independent plan assets exist for the pension and other post-employment benefit obligations of associates. In these cases the related unfunded liability is included in the Consolidated Balance Sheet. The value of the post-employment benefits promised under the pension and other post-employment benefit plans is represented by the defined benefit obligation ("DBO"), which is measured based on the PUC method. Independent actuaries reappraise the DBOs of all major pension and other post-employment benefit plans annually. Plan assets are recognized at fair value.
The major pension and other post-employment benefit plans are based in Switzerland, the United States, Germany and the United Kingdom. As of December 31, 2024, these plans represent 87% of Alcon's total DBO and are independently sponsored by Alcon. Details of the plans in those significant countries are provided below.
The principal plan in Switzerland is funded and open for new joiners. For the Swiss pension plan, active insured members' benefits are partially linked to the contributions paid into the plan. Certain features of the Swiss pension plan required by law preclude the plan from being categorized as a defined contribution plan. These factors include a minimum interest guarantee on retirement savings accounts, a pre-determined factor for converting the accumulated savings account balance into a pension and embedded death and disability benefits. All benefits granted under a Swiss-based principal pension plan are vested, and Swiss legislation prescribes that the employer has to contribute a fixed percentage of an associate's pay to an external pension trust. Additional employer contributions may be required whenever the foundation's statutory funding ratio falls below a certain level. The associate also contributes to the plan.
Alcon's Swiss pension obligation is set up under an Alcon-sponsored arrangement affiliated with Copré La Collective de Prévoyance ("Copré") – a Swiss collective foundation. As a collective foundation, Copré is governed by its own board of trustees which is responsible for the foundation regulations and asset investment strategy for multiple entities participating in the collective foundation. Alcon maintains its own pension committee, consisting of representatives nominated by Alcon and the active insured associates.
The principal plan in the United States (Qualified Plan) is funded, whereas the plans providing additional benefits for executives (Defined Benefit Restoration Plan and Grandfathered Supplemental Executive Plan) are unfunded. Benefits in the Qualified Plan and Restoration Plan are frozen for all participants. Employer contributions are required for the Qualified Plan whenever the statutory funding ratio falls below a certain level. Furthermore, the United States other post-employment benefit plans (US OPEB plans) represent 98% of the total DBO for other post-employment benefit plans. These benefits in the US primarily consist of post-employment healthcare which has been closed to new members since 2015. Effective January 1, 2021, the Alcon sponsored group health plan for current and future eligible retired participants age 65 and over utilizes a private Medicare marketplace while providing an annual notional contribution to a Health Reimbursement Account for each covered member and spouse. There is no statutory funding requirement for the US OPEB plans.
The major pension arrangements in Germany are governed by the Occupational Pensions Act ("BetrAVG"). The plans are partly funded by a Contractual Trust arrangement or direct insurances. The employer is responsible for contributing the premiums to the insurances and paying certain benefits when they are due. All defined benefit plans are closed for new entrants and the benefits are fully vested for all participants. For some participants the benefits are based on final salary and length of employment, and for others the benefit is earned each year based on the current salary in the year of service. Associates do not contribute towards the cost of the benefits.
The plan in the United Kingdom is closed with only former Alcon associates entitled to current or future benefits. The Alcon United Kingdom Pension Scheme is governed and administered by a board of trustees in accordance with its Trust Deed. United Kingdom legislation requires that pension schemes are funded prudently (i.e., to a level in excess of the "best estimate" expected cost of providing benefits). Funding is assessed on a triennial basis using assumptions agreed by the board of trustees and Alcon. The board of trustees is responsible for jointly agreeing with Alcon the level of contributions needed to eliminate any shortfall over a reasonable period of time. Under the governing documentation, if a surplus remains once liabilities have been settled it would be refunded to Alcon.
Alcon has certain pension plans with a surplus that are not recognized on the basis that future economic benefits are not available to the entity in the form of a reduction in future contributions or a cash refund.
The below table summarizes the funded and unfunded DBO for pension and other post-employment benefit plans of Alcon associates at December 31, 2024 and 2023.
 Pension plansOther post-employment
benefit plans
($ millions)2024202320242023
Benefit obligation at January 1638 563 213 221 
Current service cost16 16 
Interest cost18 20 10 11 
Past service costs and settlements— (1)— — 
Administrative expenses— — 
Remeasurement (gains)/losses arising from changes in financial assumptions(14)46 (6)
Remeasurement (gains) arising from changes in demographic assumptions— (2)— — 
Remeasurement losses/(gains) arising from experience-related changes16 (16)
Currency translation effects(30)22 — — 
Benefit payments(47)(49)(19)(18)
Contributions of associates
Benefit obligation at December 31592 638 208 213 
Fair value of plan assets at January 1448 417   
Interest income11 14 — — 
Return on plan assets excluding interest income13 15 — — 
Currency translation effects(23)16 — — 
Employer contributions23 31 15 14 
Contributions of associates
Settlements— (1)— — 
Benefit payments(47)(49)(19)(18)
Fair value of plan assets at December 31430 448   
Funded status(162)(190)(208)(213)
Limitation on recognition of fund surplus at January 1(25)(21)
Change in limitation on recognition of fund surplus(8)(4)
Currency translation effects— 
Limitation on recognition of fund surplus at December 31(30)(25)
Net liability in the balance sheet at December 31(192)(215)(208)(213)
The reconciliation of the net liability from January 1 to December 31 is as follows:
 Pension plansOther post-employment benefit plans
($ millions)2024202320242023
Net liability at January 1(215)(167)(213)(221)
Current service cost(16)(16)(5)(5)
Net interest expense(7)(6)(10)(11)
Administrative expenses(1)(2)— — 
Remeasurements22 (45)10 
Currency translation effects10 (6)— — 
Employer contributions23 31 15 14 
Change in limitation on recognition of fund surplus(8)(4)— — 
Net liability at December 31(192)(215)(208)(213)
Amounts recognized in the balance sheet
Prepaid benefit cost— — 
Accrued benefit liability(198)(221)(208)(213)
The below tables provide detail of the DBO for pension plans by geography and type of member and of plan assets based on the geographical locations in which they are held.
2024
($ millions)SwitzerlandUnited
States
GermanyUnited
Kingdom
Rest of
the world
Total
By type of member
Active(226)(25)(42)— (75)(368)
Deferred pensioners(8)(29)(16)(26)(14)(93)
Pensioners(33)(38)(26)(27)(7)(131)
Benefit obligation at December 31(267)(92)(84)(53)(96)(592)
Thereof: unfunded plans43 21 — — 20 84 
Thereof: unfunded portion of funded plans43 63 — 114 
Prepaid benefit costs and assets subject to limitation on recognition of fund surplus— — — (4)(32)(36)
Fair value of plan assets at December 31181 70 21 57 101 430 
Funded status(86)(22)(63)4 5 (162)
 2023
($ millions)SwitzerlandUnited
States
GermanyUnited
Kingdom
Rest of
the world
Total
By type of member
Active(241)(31)(47)— (80)(399)
Deferred pensioners(8)(31)(19)(31)(15)(104)
Pensioners(33)(37)(27)(31)(7)(135)
Benefit obligation at December 31(282)(99)(93)(62)(102)(638)
Thereof: unfunded plans49 22 — — 17 88 
Thereof: unfunded portion of funded plans42 74 — 14 133 
Prepaid benefit costs and assets subject to limitation on recognition of fund surplus— — — (5)(26)(31)
Fair value of plan assets at December 31191 74 19 67 97 448 
Funded status(91)(25)(74)5 (5)(190)
The below table shows the principal weighted average actuarial assumptions used for calculating defined benefit plans and other post-employment benefits of Alcon associates.
 Pension plansOther post-employment
benefit plans
 2024202320242023
Discount rate3.2 %3.0 %5.5 %5.0 %
Expected rate of pension increase1.0 %1.1 %
Expected rate of salary increase2.6 %2.7 %
Interest on savings account2.0 %2.2 %
Current average life expectancy for a 65-year-old male (in years)20202121
Current average life expectancy for a 65-year-old female (in years)22222323
The below table shows additional details related to the weighted average discount rates for pension and other post-employment benefit plans for each significant country.
 Pension plansOther post-employment
benefit plans
 2024202320242023
Switzerland1.6 %1.9 %
United States5.4 %5.0 %5.5 %5.0 %
Germany3.5 %3.1 %
United Kingdom5.5 %4.5 %
Changes in the aforementioned actuarial assumptions can result in significant volatility in the accounting for pension plans and other post-employment benefit plans in the Consolidated Financial Statements. This can result in substantial changes in Alcon's other comprehensive income, non-current liabilities and prepaid pension assets.
The DBO is significantly impacted by assumptions related to the rate used to discount the actuarially determined post-employment benefit liability. This rate is based on yields of high-quality corporate bonds in the country of the plan. Increasing corporate bond yields increase the discount rate. An increase in the discount rate results in a decrease in the DBO and an increase in the funded status.
The impact of increasing interest rates on a plan's assets is more difficult to predict. A significant part of plan assets is invested in bonds. Bond values typically are inversely correlated to interest rates. Bond values usually decrease when interest rates rise and may therefore partially offset the increase in the funded status. Furthermore, pension assets also include significant holdings of equity instruments. Share prices tend to fall when interest rates increase and therefore
often offset the positive impact of the decreasing DBO on the funded status (although the correlation of interest rates with returns on equities is not as strong as with bonds, especially in the short term).
The assumption for the expected rate for pension increases significantly affects the DBO of most plans in Switzerland, Germany and the United Kingdom. While the average rate remained relatively flat at 1.0% in the current year, such pension increases generally decrease the funded status, although there is no strong correlation between the value of the plan assets and pension/inflation increases.
Assumptions regarding life expectancy significantly impact the DBO. While the life expectancy assumption remained flat in the current year, generally an increase in longevity increases the DBO. There is no offsetting impact from the plan assets, as no longevity bonds or swaps are held by the pension funds. Generational mortality tables are used where this data is available.
The below table shows the sensitivity of the defined benefit pension and other post-employment benefit obligations to the principal actuarial assumptions as of December 31, 2024.
($ millions)
(Decrease)/increase in 2024 year-end liability
25 basis point increase in discount rate
(23)
25 basis point decrease in discount rate
25 
1 year increase in life expectancy
12 
25 basis point increase in rate of pension increase
25 basis point decrease in rate of pension increase(1)
(4)
25 basis point increase of interest on savings account
25 basis point decrease of interest on savings account
(3)
25 basis point increase in rate of salary increase
25 basis point decrease in rate of salary increase
(3)
(1)Decrease in rate of pension increase is limited to zero.
The above sensitivity analyses are based on a change in an assumption while holding all other assumptions constant. In practice, this is unlikely to occur, and changes of the assumptions may be correlated. When calculating the sensitivity of the DBO to significant actuarial assumptions the same method (present value of the defined benefit obligation calculated with the PUC method at the end of the reporting period) has been applied as when calculating the net liability recognized in the Consolidated Balance Sheet.
The below table summarizes the healthcare cost trend rate assumptions used for other post-employment benefits.
202420232022
Healthcare cost trend rate assumed for next year7.0 %6.0 %6.3 %
Rate to which the cost trend rate is assumed to decline4.5 %4.5 %4.5 %
Year that the rate reaches the ultimate trend rate203520302030
The below table shows the weighted average plan asset allocation of funded defined benefit pension plans at December 31, 2024, and 2023.
Pension plans
(as a percentage)Long-term
target minimum
Long-term
target maximum
20242023
Equity securities15 40 33 33 
Debt securities20 60 40 41 
Real estate20 11 11 
Alternative investments— 20 13 13 
Cash and other investments— 15 
Total100 100 
Cash and most of the equity and debt securities have a quoted market price in an active market. Real estate and alternative investments, which include hedge fund and private equity investments, usually do not have a quoted market price.
The strategic allocation of assets of the different pension plans is determined with the objective of achieving an investment return that, together with employer contributions and contributions of associates (where applicable), is sufficient to manage the various funding risks of the plans. Based upon the market and economic environments, actual asset allocations may temporarily be permitted to deviate from policy targets.
The weighted average duration of the DBO is 12.0 years and 12.4 years as of December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively.
Alcon's ordinary contribution to the various pension plans is based on the rules of each plan and its respective country. Additional contributions are made whenever required by local statute or law (i.e., usually when statutory funding levels fall below predetermined thresholds).
The below table summarizes expected employer contributions for one year and expected future benefit payments for ten years for pension and other post-employment benefit plans as of December 31, 2024.
($ millions)Pension plansOther
post-employment
benefit plans
Employer contributions
2025 (estimated)10 — 
Expected future benefit payments
202538 16 
202634 18 
202735 19 
202835 20 
202938 20 
2030-2034200 93 
Defined contribution plans
In many countries, associates are covered by defined contribution plans. Contributions charged to the 2024 Consolidated Income Statement for the defined contribution plans were $153 million (2023: $151 million; 2022: $144 million).
v3.25.0.1
Equity-based compensation
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Share-Based Payment Arrangements [Abstract]  
Equity-based compensation Equity-based compensation
For the year ended December 31, 2024, Alcon recorded equity-based compensation expense of $162 million (2023: $159 million, 2022: $152 million).
Liabilities from cash-settled equity-based compensation plans were $11 million as of December 31, 2024 ($13 million as of December 31, 2023).
At December 31, 2024, Alcon has various equity-based incentive plans, under which Alcon may grant awards in the form of restricted stock units ("RSUs"), performance-based restricted stock units ("PSUs"), restricted stock awards ("RSAs"), or any other form of award at the discretion of the Board. Certain associates in select countries may also participate in share ownership savings plans.
Summary of unvested share movements
The below table summarizes unvested share movements for all Alcon equity-based incentive plans for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023.
 20242023
Number of
shares in
thousands
Weighted average
fair value at grant date in $
Fair value at grant date in $ millionsNumber of
shares in
thousands
Weighted average
fair value at grant date in $
Fair value at grant date in $ millions
Unvested shares at January 14,942 71.82355 4,793 69.16331 
Granted
Restricted awards1,560 80.95 126 1,627 72.30 118 
Performance awards771 77.99 60 698 72.06 50 
Vested(1,902)73.76 (140)(1,985)65.70 (130)
Forfeited(204)75.72 (15)(191)73.66 (14)
Unvested shares at December 315,167 74.63 386 4,942 71.82 355 
The remaining weighted-average vesting period of unvested equity-based awards as of December 31, 2024 was 1.3 years.
Equity-based incentive plans
The below table summarizes the number of shares authorized under the plans as of December 31, 2024.
(thousands)Authorized shares
Long-term Incentive Plan20,000 
Deferred Bonus Stock Plan(1)
1,500 
Swiss Employee Share Ownership Plan475 
Other share savings plans275 
Total22,250 
(1)    No grants under the Deferred Bonus Stock Plan were made in 2024, 2023 or 2022.
Long-term Incentive Plan ("LTIP") - Restricted Stock Units and Restricted Stock Awards
Under Alcon's LTIP, certain associates may receive grants of RSUs and RSAs (together "Restricted awards"). The awards generally vest on the third anniversary of the award and are generally forfeited if the employment relationship with Alcon terminates prior to vesting. Recipients of RSU awards do not have any shareholder rights, such as voting or dividend rights, until the shares are delivered. Alcon associates receiving grants of RSAs are entitled to the dividends that may be declared and paid over the vesting period only if the associates vest in such award.
LTIP - Performance Stock Units
The Alcon CEO and certain senior-level associates participate in Alcon's long-term performance program. PSUs granted under the LTIP each convert to unrestricted Alcon Inc. shares at vesting, subject to the achievement of performance measures.
PSUs awarded to plan participants are granted at target incentive ranges from 35% to 575% of base compensation and vest over a three-year period. The payout between 0% and 200% of target is dependent upon four equally weighted performance metrics which are determined at the onset of the performance period by the Board. The metrics include compound annual growth rate of Net sales, compound annual growth rate of core earnings per share, market share of peers, and innovation. The Board and the Compensation Committee assess the performance against the defined measures, including input from the Innovation Committee for the innovation metric, and approve the final payout. PSUs granted under the performance plan do not carry voting rights, but do carry dividend equivalents that are paid in cash or Alcon Inc. shares at vesting, provided participants remain associates of Alcon.
Swiss Employee Share Ownership Plan and other share savings plans
Alcon associates in certain countries are encouraged to invest in share savings plans. Under the share savings plans, participants may elect to receive some of their wages or annual incentives in Alcon Inc. shares in lieu of cash. Subject to plan rules and limitations, as a reward for their participation in the share savings plans, at no additional cost to the participant, Alcon may partially match their investments in shares after a holding period of 3 years.
v3.25.0.1
Related parties transactions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Related Party [Abstract]  
Related parties transactions Related parties transactions
Executive officers
The below table summarizes compensation information for key management personnel.
($ millions)202420232022
Cash and other compensation24.4 20.1 18.7 
Post-employment benefits2.9 1.1 0.9 
Equity-based compensation22.5 23.1 22.4 
Total49.8 44.3 42.0 
Investments in associated companies
As of December 31, 2024, Alcon holds voting interests of approximately 40.3%, 20.0% and 8.8% in three associated companies which are accounted for using the equity method as Alcon is considered to have significant influence. The below table summarizes activity related to investments in associated companies for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023. There were no investments in associated companies in 2022.
Investments in associated companies
($ millions)20242023
Balance as of January 110  
Purchases159 10 
Transfer from Financial assets132 — 
Share of (loss) from associated companies recognized in Consolidated Income Statement(8)— 
Balance as of December 31293 10 
Long-term convertible notes due from associated companies included in Financial assets on the Consolidated Balance Sheet amounted to $11 million as of December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023.
Other payments and payables to associated companies in 2024 amounted to $2 million primarily for research and development costs. Other payments to associated companies in 2023 amounted to $3 million to extend the duration of an option to acquire certain exclusive commercialization rights.
v3.25.0.1
Commitments and contingencies
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Other Provisions, Contingent Liabilities And Contingent Assets [Abstract]  
Commitments and contingencies Commitments and contingencies
Commitments
Research & development
Alcon has entered into long-term research agreements with various institutions which provide for potential milestone payments and other payments by Alcon that may be capitalized. As of December 31, 2024, the commitments to make payments under those agreements, and their estimated timing, were as follows:
($ millions)2024
202529 
202610 
2027
2028
2029— 
Thereafter69 
Total119 
Other
Alcon entered into various purchase commitments for services and materials as well as for equipment in the ordinary course of business. These commitments are generally entered into at current market prices and reflect normal business operations. For disclosure of Property, plant and equipment purchase commitments, see Note 8.
Contingencies
The Alcon companies have to observe the laws, government orders and regulations of the country in which they operate.
A number of Alcon companies are, and will likely continue to be, subject to various legal proceedings and investigations that arise from time to time, including proceedings regarding product liability, sales and marketing practices, commercial disputes, mergers and acquisitions, employment, wrongful discharge, antitrust, securities, health and safety, environmental, tax, international trade, privacy, intellectual property including under the Hatch-Waxman Act, and anti-bribery matters such as those under the FCPA, as amended. As a result, Alcon may become subject to substantial liabilities that may not be covered by insurance and could affect Alcon's business, financial position and reputation. While Alcon does not believe that any of these legal proceedings will have a material adverse effect on its financial position, litigation is inherently unpredictable and large judgments sometimes occur. As a consequence, Alcon may in the future incur judgments or enter into settlements of claims that could have a material adverse effect on its results of operations or cash flow.
Governments and regulatory authorities around the world have been stepping up their compliance and law enforcement activities in recent years in key areas, including marketing practices, pricing, corruption, trade restrictions, embargo legislation, insider trading, antitrust, cybersecurity and data privacy. Further, when one government or regulatory authority undertakes an investigation, it is not uncommon for other governments or regulators to undertake investigations regarding the same or similar matters. Responding to such investigations is costly and requires an increasing amount of management's time and attention. In addition, such investigations may affect Alcon's reputation, create a risk of potential exclusion from government reimbursement programs in the United States and other countries, and may lead to (or arise from) litigation. These factors have contributed to decisions by Alcon and other companies in the healthcare industry, when deemed in their interest, to enter into settlement agreements with governmental authorities around the world prior to any formal decision by the authorities or a court. Those government settlements have involved and may continue to involve, in current government investigations and proceedings, large cash payments, sometimes in the hundreds of millions of dollars or more, including the potential repayment of amounts allegedly obtained improperly and other penalties, including treble damages. In addition, settlements of government healthcare fraud cases often require companies to enter into corporate integrity agreements, which are intended to regulate company behavior for a period of years. Also, matters underlying governmental investigations and settlements may be the subject of separate private litigation.
While provisions have been made for probable losses, which management deems to be reasonable or appropriate, there are uncertainties connected with these estimates. Note 18 contains additional information on these matters.
Alcon is involved in legal proceedings concerning intellectual property rights. The inherent unpredictability of such proceedings means that there can be no assurances as to their ultimate outcome. A negative result in any such proceeding could potentially adversely affect the ability of certain Alcon companies to sell their products, or require the payment of substantial damages or royalties.
Alcon's potential for environmental remediation liability is assessed based on a risk assessment and investigation of the various sites identified by Alcon as at risk for environmental remediation exposure. Alcon's future remediation expenses are affected by a number of uncertainties. These uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the method and extent of remediation, the percentage of material attributable to Alcon at the remediation sites relative to that attributable to other parties, and the financial capabilities of the other potentially responsible parties.
Alcon has no significant environmental liabilities as at December 31, 2024 and 2023 and has incurred no significant remediation costs for the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022.
v3.25.0.1
Subsequent events
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Events After Reporting Period [Abstract]  
Subsequent events Subsequent events
On February 14, 2025, Alcon entered into a stock purchase agreement with an existing shareholder of an associated company to purchase their equity interest. The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions and is expected to give Alcon greater than a 50% equity interest in the associated company at closing. The resulting accounting treatment is under assessment as of February 25, 2025.
On February 25, 2025, the Board authorized the repurchase of up to $750 million of the Company’s common shares. The shares to be acquired will be held in treasury and are intended to offset the dilutive effect of shares vesting under Alcon's equity-based incentive plans. Alcon expects to fund the repurchases through cash generated from operations. The program is subject to customary safe harbor conditions and authorization of the Swiss Takeover Board. The timing and total amount of share repurchases will depend upon a variety of factors. The share repurchase program is expected to be completed over a three year period, but may be suspended or discontinued at any time.
On February 25, 2025, the Board approved the proposal to submit the 2024 financial statements of Alcon Inc. and these Consolidated Financial Statements for approval at the Annual General Meeting on May 6, 2025. Additionally on February 25, 2025, the Board proposed a dividend of CHF 0.28 per share to be approved at the same Annual General Meeting. If approved by the shareholders, the total dividend payments would amount to a maximum of approximately $155 million using the CHF/USD exchange rate as of February 17, 2025.
The Board has evaluated subsequent events as they relate to Alcon for potential recognition or disclosures from January 1, 2025 to the date of the approval of these Consolidated Financial Statements and has determined there are no additional subsequent events to be reported in these Consolidated Financial Statements.
v3.25.0.1
Alcon subsidiaries and associated companies
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Disclosure Of Separate Financial Statements [Abstract]  
Alcon subsidiaries and associated companies Alcon subsidiaries and associated companies
The following table lists the subsidiaries of Alcon Inc. with Total assets or Net sales in excess of $5 million included in the Consolidated Financial Statements at and for the year ended December 31, 2024, respectively. The equity interest percentage shown in the table represents Alcon's share in voting rights in those entities. Unless otherwise stated, each entity has share capital consisting of equity held directly by the Company or another of its consolidated subsidiaries.
Country of organization/Entity namePlace of businessEquity
interest
Argentina
Alcon Laboratorios Argentina S.A.Buenos Aires100 %
Australia
Alcon Laboratories (Australia) Pty LtdMacquarie Park100 %
Austria
Alcon Ophthalmika GmbHWien100 %
Belgium
Alcon Laboratories Belgium BVBAPuurs100 %
Alcon NVMechelen100 %
Brazil
Alcon Brasil Cuidados com a Saúde Ltda.São Paulo100 %
Canada
Alcon Canada Inc.Mississauga, Ontario100 %
Cayman Islands
Aerie Pharmaceuticals LimitedGrand Cayman100 %
Chile
Alcon Laboratorios Chile Ltd.Santiago de Chile100 %
China
Alcon (China) Ophthalmic Product Co., Ltd.Beijing 100 %
Alcon Hong Kong LimitedHong Kong100 %
Colombia
Laboratorios Alcon de Colombia S.A.Santafé de Bogotá100 %
Czech Republic
Alcon Pharmaceuticals (Czech Republic) s.r.o.Prague100 %
Denmark
Alcon Nordic A/SCopenhagen100 %
Ecuador
AlconLab Ecuador S.A.Quito100 %
France
Laboratoires Alcon S.A.S.Rueil-Malmaison100 %
Germany
Alcon Deutschland GmbHFreiburg im Breisgau100 %
CIBA Vision GmbHGrosswallstadt100 %
WaveLight GmbHErlangen100 %
Greece
Alcon Laboratories Hellas- Single Member Commercial and Industrial S.A.C.I.Maroussi, Athens100 %
Hungary
Alcon Hungary Pharmaceuticals Trading Limited Liability CompanyBudapest100 %
India
Alcon Laboratories (India) Private LimitedBangalore100 %
Indonesia
PT. CIBA Vision BatamBatam100 %
Ireland
Alcon Laboratories Ireland LimitedCork City100 %
Aerie Pharmaceuticals Ireland LimitedAthlone100 %
Israel
BELKIN Vision Ltd.Yavne100 %
Italy
Alcon Italia S.p.A.Milano100 %
Country of organization/Entity namePlace of businessEquity
interest
Japan
Alcon Japan Ltd.Tokyo100 %
Malaysia
Alcon Laboratories (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd.Petaling Jaya100 %
CIBA Vision Johor Sdn. Bhd.Johor100 %
Mexico
Alcon Laboratorios, S.A. de C.V.Ciudad de Mexico100 %
Netherlands
Alcon Finance B.V.Amsterdam100 %
Alcon Nederland B.V.Utrecht100 %
New Zealand
Alcon Laboratories (New Zealand) Ltd.Remuera100 %
Panama
Alcon Centroamerica S.A.Panama City100 %
Peru
Alcon Pharmaceutical del Peru S.A.Lima100 %
Philippines
Alcon Laboratories (Philippines), Inc.Pasig City100 %
Poland
Alcon Polska Sp. z o.o.Warszawa100 %
Portugal
Alcon Portugal-Produtos e Equipamentos Oftalmológicos Lda.Oeiras100 %
Puerto Rico
Alcon (Puerto Rico), Inc.Cataño, PR100 %
Romania
Alcon Romania S.R.L.Bucharest100 %
Russian Federation
Alcon Farmacevtika LLCMoscow100 %
Singapore
Alcon Pte LtdSingapore100 %
Alcon Singapore Manufacturing Pte LtdSingapore100 %
CIBA Vision Asian Manufacturing and Logistics Pte Ltd.Singapore100 %
South Africa
Alcon Laboratories (South Africa) (Pty) Ltd.Midrand100 %
South Korea
Alcon Korea Ltd.Seoul100 %
Spain
Alcon Healthcare S.A.Barcelona100 %
Switzerland
Alcon Grieshaber AGSchaffhausen100 %
Alcon Management SAVernier100 %
Alcon Pharmaceuticals Ltd.Fribourg100 %
Alcon Services AGFribourg100 %
Alcon Switzerland SAZug100 %
Thailand
Alcon Laboratories (Thailand) LimitedBangkok100 %
Turkey
Alcon Laboratuvarlari Ticaret A.S.Istanbul100 %
Ukraine
Alcon Ukraine LLCKiev100 %
United Kingdom
Alcon Eye Care UK LimitedFrimley/Camberley100 %
United States of America
Aerie Distribution, Inc.Fort Worth, TX100 %
Country of organization/Entity namePlace of businessEquity
interest
Aerie Pharmaceuticals, Inc.Fort Worth, TX100 %
Alcon Finance CorporationFort Worth, TX100 %
Alcon Laboratories, Inc.Fort Worth, TX100 %
Alcon RefractiveHorizons, LLC Fort Worth, TX100 %
Alcon Research, LLC Fort Worth, TX100 %
Alcon Vision, LLCFort Worth, TX100 %
CIBA Vision, LLCFort Worth, TX100 %
WaveLight, Inc.Fort Worth, TX100 %
Ivantis, Inc.Fort Worth, TX100 %
MDBackline, Inc.Fort Worth, TX100 %
PowerVision, Inc.Fort Worth, TX100 %
Tear Film Innovations, Inc.Fort Worth, TX100 %
TrueVision Systems, Inc.Fort Worth, TX100 %
Uruguay
Alcon Laboratorios Uruguay S.A.Montevideo100 %
There were investments in three associated companies as of December 31, 2024. Refer to Note 24 for additional information.
v3.25.0.1
Insider Trading Policies and Procedures
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Insider Trading Policies and Procedures [Line Items]  
Insider Trading Policies and Procedures Adopted true
v3.25.0.1
Cybersecurity Risk Management and Strategy Disclosure
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Cybersecurity Risk Management, Strategy, and Governance [Line Items]  
Cybersecurity Risk Management Processes for Assessing, Identifying, and Managing Threats [Text Block]
We recognize the importance of timely and appropriately assessing, preventing, identifying and managing risks associated with Cybersecurity Threats, as such term is defined in Form 20-F, Part II, Item 16K(a). These risks include, among other things, potential operational risks; intellectual property theft; fraud; extortion; harm to associates, customers or patients; violation of privacy and other litigation and legal risk; and reputational risks. We have implemented cybersecurity processes, technologies and controls to aid in our efforts to assess, prevent, identify and manage such risks.
To identify and assess risks from Cybersecurity Threats, our enterprise risk management program considers Cybersecurity Threat risks alongside other company risks as part of our overall risk assessment process. Our internal audit team collaborates with subject matter specialists, as necessary, to gather insights for identifying and assessing Cybersecurity Threat risks, their likelihood and severity, and potential preventative measures and mitigations. We employ a range of tools and services, including regular network and endpoint monitoring, vulnerability assessments, penetration testing and tabletop exercises to inform our risk identification, assessment and management.
We also have a cybersecurity-specific risk assessment process, which helps identify our Cybersecurity Threat risks by aligning our processes with industry cybersecurity frameworks, including the National Institute of Standards and Technology (“NIST”) and International Organization for Standardization (“ISO”) 27001 standards, as well as by engaging experts to attempt to infiltrate our Information Systems, as such term is defined in Form 20-F, Part II, Item 16K(a).
To provide for the availability of critical data and systems, maintain regulatory compliance, manage our risks from Cybersecurity Threats and to protect against, detect and respond to Cybersecurity Incidents, as such term is defined in Form 20-F, Part II, Item 16K(a), we undertake activities including:
The Alcon IT Security Incident Response policy generally follows the NIST incident handling framework to help us identify, protect, detect, respond and recover when there is an actual or potential cybersecurity incident. Alcon’s incident response policy also includes timely collaboration with appropriate Alcon business stakeholders, including information technology, data privacy and legal functions to appropriately identify and respond to any notification or other legal obligations related to such incidents, as applicable;
We monitor applicable data protection laws and best practices, and seek to implement, maintain and enhance our security safeguards and processes accordingly;
We regularly review our consumer facing policies and statements related to cybersecurity;
Where applicable, we seek to proactively inform our customers of substantive changes related to customer data handling;
We conduct annual data privacy, cybersecurity and compliance training for all our associates, which includes cyber and informational loss reporting;
We conduct annual cybersecurity management and incident training for associates involved in our systems and processes that handle sensitive data;
We perform regular phishing simulation activities for all associates and contractors with access to corporate email systems to enhance awareness and responsiveness to such possible threats;
We perform regular Security Incident Response Tabletops facilitated by a third party incident response provider and include comprehensive organizational involvement to simulate a response to a cybersecurity incident and use the findings to mature our processes and technologies;
We maintain, and review coverage on an periodic basis, a group insurance plan to provide protection against the potential losses arising from a cybersecurity incident; and
We have an incident response retainer with an industry leading supplier to assist in an actual or potential cybersecurity incident.
Through policy, practice and contract, as applicable, we require associates, as well as third parties who provide services on our behalf, to treat Alcon data, including customer, patient, employee and other confidential and sensitive information, in accordance with our policies.
Our incident response process coordinates the activities we take to prepare for, detect, respond to and recover from cybersecurity incidents, which include processes to triage, assess severity for, escalate, contain, investigate and remediate
the incident, as well as to comply with potentially applicable legal obligations and mitigate potential brand, reputational or other damage.
Our information security team partners with Alcon's data privacy and legal teams and other groups to timely determine whether and how risks from identified Cybersecurity Threats, including results from any previous Cybersecurity Incidents, have materially affected or are reasonably likely to materially affect us, including our business strategy, results of operations or financial conditions.
Our processes also address Cybersecurity Threat risks associated with our use of third-party service providers, including those in our supply chain or who have access to Alcon data, including customer, patient, associate or other confidential or proprietary information, or Alcon systems or facilities. Third-party risks are included within our risk management assessment program, as well as our cybersecurity-specific risk identification program. In addition, cybersecurity considerations affect the selection and oversight of our third-party service providers. We perform diligence on third parties that have access to our systems, data or facilities that house such systems or data, and continually monitor Cybersecurity threat risks identified through such diligence. Additionally, we generally require those third parties that could introduce potentially heightened cybersecurity risk to us to agree by contract to manage their cybersecurity risks in specified ways, and to agree to be subject to cybersecurity audits, which we conduct as appropriate.
As part of the above processes, our information security team regularly engages with Alcon's data privacy and legal teams, assessors, consultants, auditors and other third parties, including a regular maturity assessment by a Qualified Security Assessor to review our cybersecurity program to identify areas for continued focus, improvement and/or compliance.
In the last three fiscal years, we have not experienced any material Cybersecurity Incidents and the expenses we have incurred from Cybersecurity Incidents were immaterial. We have not paid any penalties or settlements in the past three years.
For further discussion of risks from Cybersecurity Threats to us, see "Item 3. Key Information-3.D. Risk Factors-Significant cybersecurity breaches could disrupt business operations, result in the loss of critical and confidential information and adversely affect our reputation and results of operations."
Cybersecurity Risk Management Processes Integrated [Flag] true
Cybersecurity Risk Management Processes Integrated [Text Block]
We recognize the importance of timely and appropriately assessing, preventing, identifying and managing risks associated with Cybersecurity Threats, as such term is defined in Form 20-F, Part II, Item 16K(a). These risks include, among other things, potential operational risks; intellectual property theft; fraud; extortion; harm to associates, customers or patients; violation of privacy and other litigation and legal risk; and reputational risks. We have implemented cybersecurity processes, technologies and controls to aid in our efforts to assess, prevent, identify and manage such risks.
To identify and assess risks from Cybersecurity Threats, our enterprise risk management program considers Cybersecurity Threat risks alongside other company risks as part of our overall risk assessment process. Our internal audit team collaborates with subject matter specialists, as necessary, to gather insights for identifying and assessing Cybersecurity Threat risks, their likelihood and severity, and potential preventative measures and mitigations. We employ a range of tools and services, including regular network and endpoint monitoring, vulnerability assessments, penetration testing and tabletop exercises to inform our risk identification, assessment and management.
Cybersecurity Risk Management Third Party Engaged [Flag] true
Cybersecurity Risk Third Party Oversight and Identification Processes [Flag] true
Cybersecurity Risk Materially Affected or Reasonably Likely to Materially Affect Registrant [Flag] false
Cybersecurity Risk Board of Directors Oversight [Text Block]
Cybersecurity is an important part of our risk management processes and an area of increasing focus for our Board and management.
The Audit and Risk Committee of our Board is responsible for the oversight of risks from Cybersecurity Threats. At least annually, the Audit and Risk Committee receives an overview from Cybersecurity management covering topics such as data security posture, results from third-party assessments, progress towards predetermined risk-mitigation-related goals, our incident response plan and material Cybersecurity Threat risks or incidents, as well as the steps management has taken to respond to such risks. In such sessions, the Audit and Risk Committee generally receives materials including a cybersecurity scorecard and other materials indicating current and emerging Cybersecurity Threat risks, and describing our ability to mitigate those risks, and discusses such matters with our Chief Information Security Officer ("CISO"). Members of the Audit and Risk Committee are also encouraged to regularly engage in ad hoc conversations with management on cybersecurity-related news events and discuss any updates to our cybersecurity risk management and strategy programs. Cybersecurity Threat risks are also considered during separate Board meeting discussions of important matters such as enterprise risk management, operational budgeting and strategic planning, business continuity planning, mergers and acquisitions, brand management and other relevant matters.
Our cybersecurity risk management and strategy processes, which are discussed in greater detail above, are led by our CISO who has over 30 years of prior relevant experience in various information technology roles involving managing global information security, application development and IT infrastructure organizations, developing cybersecurity strategy and implementing effective information and cybersecurity programs. Our CISO manages a team of associates who provide information assurance governance and consultation across all regions of our business. This team includes approximately 60 individuals holding various cybersecurity certifications. Our CISO and our information assurance team partner closely with our regional privacy officers, led by our Global Data Privacy Officer.
These members of management are informed about and monitor the prevention, mitigation, detection, classification and remediation of cybersecurity incidents through their management of, and participation in, the cybersecurity risk management and strategy processes described above, including the operation of our incident response plan.
As discussed above, these members of management report to Audit and Risk Committee about Cybersecurity Threat risks, among other cybersecurity related matters, at least annually.
Cybersecurity Risk Board Committee or Subcommittee Responsible for Oversight [Text Block] The Audit and Risk Committee of our Board is responsible for the oversight of risks from Cybersecurity Threats.
Cybersecurity Risk Process for Informing Board Committee or Subcommittee Responsible for Oversight [Text Block] At least annually, the Audit and Risk Committee receives an overview from Cybersecurity management covering topics such as data security posture, results from third-party assessments, progress towards predetermined risk-mitigation-related goals, our incident response plan and material Cybersecurity Threat risks or incidents, as well as the steps management has taken to respond to such risks. In such sessions, the Audit and Risk Committee generally receives materials including a cybersecurity scorecard and other materials indicating current and emerging Cybersecurity Threat risks, and describing our ability to mitigate those risks, and discusses such matters with our Chief Information Security Officer ("CISO"). Members of the Audit and Risk Committee are also encouraged to regularly engage in ad hoc conversations with management on cybersecurity-related news events and discuss any updates to our cybersecurity risk management and strategy programs. Cybersecurity Threat risks are also considered during separate Board meeting discussions of important matters such as enterprise risk management, operational budgeting and strategic planning, business continuity planning, mergers and acquisitions, brand management and other relevant matters.
Cybersecurity Risk Role of Management [Text Block] The Audit and Risk Committee of our Board is responsible for the oversight of risks from Cybersecurity Threats. At least annually, the Audit and Risk Committee receives an overview from Cybersecurity management covering topics such as data security posture, results from third-party assessments, progress towards predetermined risk-mitigation-related goals, our incident response plan and material Cybersecurity Threat risks or incidents, as well as the steps management has taken to respond to such risks. In such sessions, the Audit and Risk Committee generally receives materials including a cybersecurity scorecard and other materials indicating current and emerging Cybersecurity Threat risks, and describing our ability to mitigate those risks, and discusses such matters with our Chief Information Security Officer ("CISO"). Members of the Audit and Risk Committee are also encouraged to regularly engage in ad hoc conversations with management on cybersecurity-related news events and discuss any updates to our cybersecurity risk management and strategy programs. Cybersecurity Threat risks are also considered during separate Board meeting discussions of important matters such as enterprise risk management, operational budgeting and strategic planning, business continuity planning, mergers and acquisitions, brand management and other relevant matters.
Cybersecurity Risk Management Positions or Committees Responsible [Flag] true
Cybersecurity Risk Management Positions or Committees Responsible [Text Block] The Audit and Risk Committee of our Board is responsible for the oversight of risks from Cybersecurity Threats. At least annually, the Audit and Risk Committee receives an overview from Cybersecurity management covering topics such as data security posture, results from third-party assessments, progress towards predetermined risk-mitigation-related goals, our incident response plan and material Cybersecurity Threat risks or incidents, as well as the steps management has taken to respond to such risks. In such sessions, the Audit and Risk Committee generally receives materials including a cybersecurity scorecard and other materials indicating current and emerging Cybersecurity Threat risks, and describing our ability to mitigate those risks, and discusses such matters with our Chief Information Security Officer ("CISO"). Members of the Audit and Risk Committee are also encouraged to regularly engage in ad hoc conversations with management on cybersecurity-related news events and discuss any updates to our cybersecurity risk management and strategy programs. Cybersecurity Threat risks are also considered during separate Board meeting discussions of important matters such as enterprise risk management, operational budgeting and strategic planning, business continuity planning, mergers and acquisitions, brand management and other relevant matters.
Cybersecurity Risk Management Expertise of Management Responsible [Text Block] Our cybersecurity risk management and strategy processes, which are discussed in greater detail above, are led by our CISO who has over 30 years of prior relevant experience in various information technology roles involving managing global information security, application development and IT infrastructure organizations, developing cybersecurity strategy and implementing effective information and cybersecurity programs. Our CISO manages a team of associates who provide information assurance governance and consultation across all regions of our business. This team includes approximately 60 individuals holding various cybersecurity certifications.
Cybersecurity Risk Process for Informing Management or Committees Responsible [Text Block] These members of management are informed about and monitor the prevention, mitigation, detection, classification and remediation of cybersecurity incidents through their management of, and participation in, the cybersecurity risk management and strategy processes described above, including the operation of our incident response plan.
Cybersecurity Risk Management Positions or Committees Responsible Report to Board [Flag] true
v3.25.0.1
Selected accounting policies (Policies)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Disclosure Of Notes And Other Explanatory Information [Abstract]  
Basis of preparation
Basis of preparation
The accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements present our historical financial position, results of operations, comprehensive income and cash flows in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”) as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (“IASB”) (“IFRS Accounting Standards”). Alcon's principal accounting policies are described in this Note.
Principles of consolidation
The Consolidated Financial Statements include the accounts of the Company and its wholly owned subsidiaries. In the event that the Company has an interest in another entity that is not wholly owned, the assets, liabilities, results of operations and cash flows of such entity are included in the Company's Consolidated Financial Statements, if the Company directly or indirectly has control over such entity. The Consolidated Financial Statements of the Company are prepared in accordance with IFRS as issued by the IASB. They are prepared in accordance with the historical cost convention except for items that are required to be accounted for at fair value. All intercompany transactions and accounts within Alcon were eliminated.
Equity accounting
Associated companies are all entities over which Alcon has a significant influence but not control or joint control. This is generally the case where Alcon holds between 20% and 50% of an entity's voting rights. Alcon can also have significant influence over an investee where it holds less than 20% of the voting rights if Alcon has significant transactions with the investee, Alcon has influence over the investee’s policy making decisions through Board representation, Alcon shares significant technical information with the investee or Alcon exchanges personnel with the investee. Investments in associated companies are accounted for using the equity method from the date when the investee is determined to be an associated company until the date when Alcon loses significant influence over the investee. Under the equity method, the investment is initially recognized at cost. Investments in associated companies acquired in stages are accounted for under the fair value as deemed cost approach. Under this policy election, Alcon revalues its pre-existing investment to fair value on the date the investee becomes an associated company. Transaction costs for the acquisition of an additional stake are expensed when incurred. The carrying amount of the investment is subsequently increased or decreased, to recognize Alcon's share of profit or loss and other comprehensive income of the associated company after the date of initial recognition.
Alcon eliminates its share of profit/(loss) from unrealized gains/(losses) from its transactions with associated companies against the carrying amount of the investment. Dividends received or receivable from associated companies are recognized as a reduction in the carrying amount of the investment.
The use of the equity method is discontinued from the date when the investee is determined to no longer be an associated company. The investment retained after cessation of the equity method is remeasured at fair value, and any gain or loss on such remeasurement and disposal of the investment is recognized in the Consolidated Income Statement.
The carrying amounts of investments in associated companies are tested for impairment when triggering events are identified.
Use of estimates and assumptions
Use of estimates and assumptions
The preparation of Consolidated Financial Statements requires management to make certain estimates and assumptions, either at the balance sheet date or during the period, that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities as well as revenues and expenses. Because of the inherent uncertainties, actual outcomes and results may differ from management's assumptions and estimates.
Foreign currencies
Foreign currencies
The Consolidated Financial Statements are presented in US dollars ("USD"). The functional currency of individual entities incorporated into the Consolidated Financial Statements is generally the local currency of the respective entity. The functional currency used for the reporting of certain Swiss entities is USD instead of their respective local currencies. This reflects the fact that the cash flows and transactions of these entities are primarily denominated in this currency.
For entities not operating in hyperinflationary economies, the entities' results, financial position and cash flows that do not have USD as their functional currency are translated into USD using the following exchange rates:
Income, expense and cash flows using for each month the average exchange rate, with the USD values for each month being aggregated during the year;
Balance sheet using period-end exchange rates; and
Resulting exchange rate differences are recognized in other comprehensive income.
The hyperinflationary economies in which Alcon operates are Argentina, Turkey and Venezuela. Argentina and Venezuela were hyperinflationary for all years presented. Turkey became hyperinflationary effective April 1, 2022, requiring retroactive implementation from January 1, 2022 of hyperinflationary accounting.
Hyperinflationary accounting under IAS 29, Financial Reporting in Hyperinflationary Economies, requires restatement of non-monetary assets and liabilities to the general price index at the end of the period. The income statement and components of comprehensive income are restated for changes in general price index from the period in which the transactions were initially recorded to the end of the reporting period, with the restated amounts translated using period-end exchange rates. Alcon records the impacts of applying IAS 29 in "Other reserves" in the Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity and "Other financial income & expense" in the Consolidated Income Statement.
Acquisition of assets
Acquisition of assets
Assets separately acquired are initially recognized on the balance sheet at cost if they meet the criteria for capitalization. The capitalized cost of the asset includes the purchase price and any directly attributable costs for bringing the asset into the condition to operate as intended. Expected costs for obligations to dismantle and remove property, plant and equipment when it is no longer used are included in their cost.
Property, plant and equipment
Property, plant and equipment
Property, plant and equipment are depreciated on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful lives. Freehold land is not depreciated. The related depreciation expense is included in the costs of the functions using the asset or "Cost of net sales" in the Consolidated Income Statement.
Property, plant and equipment are assessed for impairment at the cash generating unit ("CGU") level whenever there is an indication that the balance sheet carrying amount may not be recoverable using cash flow projections for the useful life.
The below table shows the respective useful lives for property, plant and equipment.
 Useful life
Buildings and improvements
10 to 40 years
Machinery and other equipment 
Machinery and equipment
5 to 20 years
Furniture and vehicles
5 to 10 years
Computer hardware
3 to 7 years
Business combinations
Business combinations
The acquisition method of accounting is used to account for all business combinations, regardless of whether equity instruments or other assets are acquired. The consideration transferred for the acquisition of a subsidiary may include:
Fair values of the assets transferred;
Liabilities incurred to the former owners of the acquired business;
Equity interests issued by the Company;
Fair value of an asset or liability resulting from a contingent consideration arrangement; and
Fair value of any pre-existing equity interest in the subsidiary.
Identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed in a business combination are measured initially at their fair values at the acquisition date. The excess of the consideration transferred over the fair value of the net identifiable assets acquired is recorded as goodwill, or directly in the income statement if it is a bargain purchase. Alcon primarily uses net present value techniques, utilizing post-tax cash flows and discount rates in estimating the fair value of identifiable assets acquired when allocating the purchase consideration paid for the acquisition. The estimates of the fair values involve significant judgment by management and include assumptions with measurement uncertainty such as the amount and timing of projected cash flows, long-term sales forecasts, the timing and probability of regulatory and commercial success and the discount rate.
Acquisition related costs are expensed as incurred.
Alcon may elect on a transaction-by-transaction basis to apply the optional concentration test to assess whether a transaction qualifies as a business. Under the test, when substantially all of the fair value of the gross assets acquired is concentrated in a single identifiable asset or a group of similar identifiable assets, Alcon will account for the transaction as an asset purchase and not a business combination.
If the concentration test is not met, or Alcon elects not to apply this optional test, Alcon will perform an assessment focusing on the existence of inputs and processes that have the ability to create outputs to determine whether the transaction is an asset purchase or a business combination.
Goodwill
Goodwill
Goodwill arises in a business combination and is the excess of the consideration transferred to acquire a business over the underlying fair value of the net identified assets acquired. It is allocated to groups of CGUs which are usually represented by the reportable segments, which are the same as Alcon's operating segments. Goodwill is tested for impairment annually at the level of these groups of CGUs, and any impairment charges are recorded under "Other expense" in the Consolidated Income Statement.
Intangible assets available-for-use and Acquired In-Process Research & Development ("IPR&D")
Intangible assets available-for-use
Alcon has the following classes of available-for-use intangible assets: Currently marketed products, Marketing know-how, Technologies, Other intangible assets (including software) and the Alcon brand name.
Currently marketed products represent the composite value of acquired intellectual property, patents, and distribution rights and product trade names.
Marketing know-how represents the value attributable to the expertise acquired for marketing and distributing Alcon surgical products.
Technologies represent identified and separable acquired know-how used in the research, development and production processes.
Significant investments in internally developed and acquired software are capitalized and included in the "Other" category and amortized once available for use.
The Alcon brand name is shown separately as it is the only Alcon intangible asset that is available for use with an indefinite useful life. Alcon considers it appropriate that the brand name has an indefinite life since the branded products have a history of strong revenue and cash flow performance, and Alcon has the intent and ability to support the brand with spending to maintain its value for the foreseeable future.
Except for the Alcon brand name, intangible assets available for use are amortized over their estimated useful lives on a straight-line basis and evaluated for potential impairment whenever facts and circumstances indicate that their carrying value may not be recoverable. The Alcon brand name is not amortized, but evaluated for potential impairment annually.
The below table shows the respective useful lives for available-for-use intangible assets and the location in the Consolidated Income Statement in which the respective amortization and any potential impairment charge is recognized.
 Useful lifeIncome statement location for
amortization and impairment charges
Currently marketed products
5 to 20 years
"Cost of net sales"
Marketing know-how
25 years
"Cost of net sales"
Technologies
10 to 20 years
"Cost of net sales" or "Research and Development"
Other (including software)
3 to 10 years
In the respective functional expense
Alcon brand nameNot amortized, indefinite useful life"Other expense"
Acquired In-Process Research & Development ("IPR&D")
Acquired research and development intangible assets, which are still under development and have accordingly not yet obtained marketing approval, are recognized as IPR&D.
IPR&D is not amortized, but evaluated for potential impairment on an annual basis or when facts and circumstances warrant. IPR&D is considered impaired when its balance sheet carrying amount exceeds its estimated recoverable amount, which is defined as the higher of its fair value less costs of disposal ("FVLCOD") and its value in use ("VIU"). Usually, Alcon applies the FVLCOD method for its impairment assessments. Under this approach when evaluating IPR&D for potential impairment, FVLCOD is estimated using net present value techniques utilizing post-tax cash flows and discount rates as there are no direct or indirect observable prices in active markets for identical or similar assets. The estimates used in calculating the net present values involve significant judgment by management and include assumptions with measurement uncertainty such as, the amount and timing of projected cash flows, long-term sales forecasts, discount rate, and the timing and probability of regulatory and commercial success. In the limited cases where the VIU method would be applied, net present value techniques would be applied using pre-tax cash flows and discount rates.
Any impairment charge is recorded in the Consolidated Income Statement under "Research & development".
Once a project included in IPR&D has been successfully developed it is transferred to the "Currently marketed products" category.
Impairment of goodwill, Alcon brand name and definite lived intangible assets
Impairment of goodwill, Alcon brand name and definite lived intangible assets
A CGU to which goodwill has been allocated (reportable segments) is considered impaired when its carrying amount, including the goodwill, exceeds its recoverable amount, which is defined as the higher of its FVLCOD and its VIU. If the recoverable amount of the reportable segment is less than its carrying amount, an impairment loss shall be recognized. The impairment loss shall be allocated to reduce the carrying amount of any goodwill allocated to the reportable segment first, with any remaining impairment loss allocated to other assets of the reportable segment on a pro-rata basis of their carrying amount.
An intangible asset other than goodwill is considered impaired when its balance sheet carrying amount exceeds its estimated recoverable amount, which is defined as the higher of its FVLCOD and its VIU. If the recoverable amount of an asset is less than its carrying amount, the carrying amount of the asset shall be reduced to its recoverable amount. That reduction is an impairment loss. Usually, Alcon applies the FVLCOD method for its impairment assessment. In most cases, no direct or indirect observable market prices for identical or similar assets are available to measure the FVLCOD. Therefore, an estimate of FVLCOD is based on net present value techniques utilizing post-tax cash flows and discount rates. In the limited cases where the VIU method would be applied, net present value techniques would be applied using pre-tax cash flows and discount rates.
FVLCOD reflects estimates of assumptions that market participants would be expected to use when pricing the asset or CGUs, and for this purpose management considers the range of economic conditions that are expected to exist over the remaining useful life of the asset.
The estimates used in calculating the net present values involve significant judgment by management and include assumptions with measurement uncertainty, such as the following:
Amount and timing of projected cash flows;
Long-term sales forecasts, including sales growth rates;
Royalty rate for the Alcon brand name;
Terminal growth rate; and
Discount rate.
Other assumptions used in the net present values calculation include:
Future tax rate;
Actions of competitors (launch of competing products, marketing initiatives, etc.); and
Outcome of R&D activities and forecast of related costs (future product developments).
Generally, for intangible assets with a definite useful life Alcon uses cash flow projections for the whole useful life of these assets. For goodwill and the Alcon brand name, Alcon generally utilizes cash flow projections for a five-year period based on management forecasts, with a terminal value based on cash flow projections considering the long-term expected growth rates and impact of demographic trends of the population to which Alcon products are prescribed, for later periods. Probability-weighted scenarios are typically used.
Discount rates used consider Alcon's estimated weighted average cost of capital adjusted for specific country and currency risks associated with cash flow projections to approximate the weighted average cost of capital of a comparable market participant. Actual cash flows and values could vary significantly from forecasted future cash flows and related values derived using net present value techniques.
Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents includes cash on hand, deposits held at call with financial institutions, and other short-term and highly liquid investments. Other short-term and highly liquid investments are classified as cash and cash equivalents when original or weighted-average maturities are three months or less and amounts are readily convertible to known amounts of cash which are subject to an insignificant risk of changes in value. Bank overdrafts are usually presented within current "Financial debts" on the Consolidated Balance Sheet except in cases where a right of offset has been agreed with a bank which then allows for presentation on a net basis.
Time deposits
Time deposits
Time deposits are financial instruments recognized initially at fair value and subsequently measured at amortized cost using the effective interest method. Time deposits with a maturity date greater than three months but less than twelve months are reported in the Consolidated Balance Sheet in "Time deposits" in current assets. Time deposits with a maturity date greater than twelve months are reported in "Financial assets" in non-current assets. Interest income is recognized in "Other financial income & expense" in the Consolidated Income Statement.
Financial assets
Financial assets
Financial assets measured at amortized cost
Non-current financial assets measured at amortized cost generally include long-term note receivables, long-term receivables from customers, primarily related to surgical equipment sales arrangements, loans, advances and other deposits. The carrying value of these assets reflects the time value of money, less any allowances for uncollectable amounts.
Alcon assesses on a forward-looking basis the expected credit losses associated with its non-current financial assets valued at amortized cost.
Purchased or originated credit-impaired financial assets are financial assets that are credit-impaired on initial recognition with one or more events that have a detrimental impact on the estimated future cash flows of those financial assets. The interest income of the financial assets is calculated by applying the credit-adjusted effective interest rate to the amortized cost of the financial asset. The calculation does not revert to the gross basis even if the credit risk of the financial asset subsequently improves so that the financial asset is no longer credit-impaired. Interest income is recognized in "Other financial income and expense" in the Consolidated Income Statement.
The lifetime expected credit loss ("ECL") of the purchased or originated credit-impaired financial assets is analyzed at inception and utilized in calculating the credit-adjusted effective interest rate, with no Day 1 impact on the carrying value of the financial assets. The value of any collateral related to the financial assets is considered in estimating the lifetime ECL at inception. For purchased or originated credit-impaired financial assets, a credit-adjusted effective interest rate is calculated by discounting the estimated future cash flows, including ECLs, to the amortized cost of the debt instrument on initial recognition. Any change in the lifetime ECL from inception would be reflected as a credit loss in the Consolidated Income statement.
For long-term receivables from customers, provisions for uncollectable amounts, which are based on their expected credit losses, are recorded as marketing and selling costs recognized in the Consolidated Income Statement within "Selling, general & administration" expenses.
For loans, advances and other deposits valued at amortized cost, impairments, which are based on their expected credit losses, and exchange rate losses are included in "Other expense" in the Consolidated Income Statement and exchange rate gains and interest income, using the effective interest rate method, are included in "Other income" in the Consolidated Income Statement.
Financial assets measured at fair value through profit and loss ("FVPL")
Financial assets measured at FVPL generally include options to acquire private companies, fund investments and derivative financial instruments. Changes in the fair value of options to acquire development stage private companies are charged to "Research and development" expense in the Consolidated Income Statement. Unrealized or realized gains and losses for fund investments, including exchange gains and losses, are recognized in the Consolidated Income Statement in "Other income" for gains and "Other expense" for losses.
Derivative financial instruments are initially recognized in the Consolidated Balance Sheet at fair value and are remeasured to their current fair value at the end of each subsequent reporting period. The valuation of forward exchange rate contracts and foreign exchange swaps are based on the discounted cash flow model, using interest curves and spot rates at the reporting date as observable inputs. Unsettled forward contracts and swaps are measured at fair value at the reporting date with changes in fair value recorded to the Consolidated Income Statement as unrealized gains or losses in "Other financial income & expense". Settled forward contracts and swaps are measured at maturity date at fair value with corresponding realized gains or losses recognized in the Consolidated Income Statement in "Other financial income & expense". No hedge accounting is applied for these arrangements.
Financial assets measured at fair value through other comprehensive income ("FVOCI")
Equity investments, including equity securities and convertible notes receivable held as strategic investments, are generally designated at the date of acquisition as financial assets valued at FVOCI with no subsequent recycling through profit and loss. Unrealized gains and losses, including exchange gains and losses, are recorded as a fair value adjustment in the Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income. They are reclassified to "Other reserves" when the equity investment is sold or settled. If these equity securities and convertible notes receivable are not designated at the date of acquisition as financial assets valued at FVOCI, they are valued at FVPL, as described above.
For all financial assets measured at fair value, Alcon recognizes transfers between levels of the fair value hierarchy at the end of the reporting period during which the transfers have occurred.
Inventories
Inventories
Inventory is valued at the lower of acquisition or production cost determined on a first-in, first-out basis and net realizable value. This value is used for the "Cost of net sales" and "Cost of other revenues" in the Consolidated Income Statement. Unsalable inventory is fully written off in the Consolidated Income Statement under "Cost of net sales" and "Cost of other revenues".
Trade receivables
Trade receivables
Trade receivables are initially recognized at their invoiced amounts, including any related sales taxes less adjustments for estimated revenue deductions such as chargebacks and cash discounts.
Provisions for expected credit losses are established using an expected credit loss model ("ECL"). The provisions are based on a forward-looking ECL, which includes possible default events on the trade receivables over the entire holding period of the trade receivable. These provisions represent the difference between the trade receivable's carrying amount and the estimated net collectible amount. Charges for doubtful trade receivables are recorded as marketing and selling costs recognized in the Consolidated Income Statement within "Selling, general & administration" expenses.
Leases
Leases
As lessee, Alcon assesses whether a contract contains a lease at inception or modification of a contract based on whether the contract conveys the right to control the use of an identified asset for a period of time in exchange for consideration. Alcon allocates contractual payments between lease and non-lease components based on their relative stand-alone price. Alcon recognizes a right-of-use asset and a corresponding lease liability for all arrangements in which it is a lessee, except for leases with a term of twelve months or less (short-term leases) and low value leases for which Alcon has elected the recognition exemptions allowed under IFRS 16.
Right-of-use assets
Right-of-use assets are initially recognized at cost, which is comprised of the amount of the initial measurement of the corresponding lease liabilities, adjusted for any lease payments made at or prior to the commencement date of the lease, lease incentives received and initial direct costs incurred, as well as any expected costs for obligations to dismantle and remove right-of-use assets when they are no longer used.
Right-of-use assets are depreciated on a straight-line basis over the shorter of the useful life of the right-of-use asset or the end of the lease term.
Right-of-use assets are assessed for impairment whenever there is an indication that the balance sheet carrying amount may not be recoverable using cash flow projections for the useful life.
Lease liabilities
Lease liabilities are accounted for at amortized cost and are initially measured at the present value of future lease payments and are classified as current or non-current based on the due dates of the underlying principal payments. In determining the lease term, Alcon evaluates the renewal options and termination options reasonably certain to be exercised. Lease payments are discounted using the interest rate implicit in the lease or, if not readily determinable, the incremental borrowing rate Alcon would be expected to pay within the respective markets, on a borrowing with a similar term and security. Interest in the period is recorded within "Interest expense" in the Consolidated Income Statement.
Lease liabilities are remeasured for changes in estimated lease term, future lease payments arising from a change in an index or rate, amounts expected to be payable under a residual value guarantee, or in assessment of whether Alcon will exercise a purchase, extension or termination option. Changes to initial lease contract terms are assessed to determine their impact on the scope of lease, and any modifications increasing the scope of the lease are treated as new contracts under the initial measurement principles, while modifications that do not increase or that decrease the scope of the lease result in an adjustment to the right-of-use asset which is remeasured as of the date of the modification.
Principal payments made on lease liabilities and any initial direct costs paid are classified as financing cash outflows, while interest payments are classified as operating cash outflows.
Payments associated with short-term leases and leases of low-value assets are recognized on a straight-line basis as an expense in the Consolidated Income Statement and are classified as cash flows from operating activities.
Legal liabilities
Legal liabilities
Alcon is subject to contingencies arising in the ordinary course of business such as patent litigation and other product-related litigation, commercial litigation, and governmental investigations and proceedings. Provisions are recorded where a reliable estimate can be made of the probable outcome of legal or other disputes.
Contingent consideration
Contingent consideration
In a business combination, it is necessary to recognize contingent future payments to previous owners representing contractually defined potential amounts as a liability. Usually for Alcon, these are linked to development or commercial milestones related to certain assets and are recognized as a financial liability at their fair value, which is then re-measured at each subsequent reporting date.
For the determination of the fair value of a contingent consideration, various unobservable inputs are used. A change in these inputs might result in a significantly higher or lower fair value measurement. The inputs used are, among others, the timing and probability of regulatory and commercial success, sales forecast and assumptions regarding the discount rate, timing and different scenarios of triggering events. The significance and usage of these inputs to each contingent consideration may vary due to differences in the timing and triggering events for payments or in the nature of the asset related to the contingent consideration. These estimates typically depend on factors such as technical milestones or market performance and are adjusted for the probability of their likelihood of payment, and if material, appropriately discounted to reflect the impact of time.
Changes in the fair value of contingent consideration liabilities in subsequent periods are recognized in the Consolidated Income Statement in "Cost of net sales" for currently marketed products and in "Research & development" for IPR&D.
The effect of unwinding the discount over time is recognized in "Interest expense" in the Consolidated Income Statement.
Alcon accounts for variable or contingent consideration associated with asset acquisitions using the cost accumulation model. At the date of the asset acquisition, the intangible asset is initially recognized at the amount paid. Variable payments are subsequently capitalized as part of the cost of the asset when paid, on the basis that such payments represent the direct cost of acquisition.
Defined benefit pension plans and other post-employment benefits and Defined contribution plans
Defined benefit pension plans and other post-employment benefits
The liability or asset recognized in the balance sheet in respect of defined benefit pension plans and other post-employment benefits is the present value of the defined benefit obligation at the end of the reporting period less the fair value of plan assets. The defined benefit obligation is calculated annually by independent actuaries using the projected unit credit ("PUC") method.
The present value of the defined benefit obligation is determined by discounting the estimated future cash outflows using interest rates of high-quality corporate bonds that are denominated in the currency in which the benefits will be paid, and that have terms approximating the terms of the related obligation. In countries where there is no sufficient market for such bonds, the market rates on government bonds are used.
The current service cost for such post-employment benefit plans is included in the personnel expenses of the various functions where the associates are employed. The net interest on the net defined benefit liability is recognized as "Other expense" or "Other income". The net interest cost is calculated by applying the discount rate to the net balance of the defined benefit obligation and the fair value of plan assets. Past service cost is recognized as "Other expense" or "Other income" in the Consolidated Income Statement for the change in the present value of a defined benefit obligation for employee service in prior periods resulting from a plan amendment or a curtailment.
Remeasurement gains and losses arising from experience adjustments and changes in actuarial assumptions are recognized in the period in which they occur, directly in other comprehensive income.
Defined contribution plans
For defined contribution plans, Alcon contributes to publicly or privately administered plans. Alcon has no further payment obligations once the contributions have been paid. The contributions are included in the personnel expenses of the various functions where the associates are employed.
Financial debts
Financial debts
Financial debts are initially recognized at fair value, net of transaction costs incurred. Financial debts are subsequently measured at amortized cost. Any difference between the proceeds (net of transaction costs and discounts) and the redemption amount is recognized in the Consolidated Income Statement over the period of the financial debts using the effective interest method. Fees paid on the establishment of credit facilities are recognized as transaction costs of the financial debt to the extent that it is probable that some or all of the facility will be drawn down. In this case, the fee is deferred until the draw down occurs. To the extent that there is no evidence that it is probable that some or all of the facility will be drawn down, the fee is capitalized as a prepayment for liquidity services and amortized over the period of the facility to which it relates, and is recognized in "Other financial income & expense" in the Consolidated Income Statement.
Financial debts are derecognized from the balance sheet when the obligation specified in the contract is discharged, cancelled or expired. The difference between the carrying amount of a financial debt that has been extinguished and the consideration paid, including any non-cash assets transferred or liabilities assumed, is recognized in "Other financial income & expense" in the Consolidated Income Statement.
Interest paid on financial debts is classified as operating activities in the Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows. Proceeds and repayments of borrowings with due dates of three months or less are presented net as financing activities in the Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows. Financial debts are classified as current liabilities unless Alcon has a right to defer the settlement of the liability for at least twelve months after the reporting period.
Revenue
Revenue
Net sales
Revenue on the sale of Alcon products and services, which is recorded as "Net sales" in the Consolidated Income Statement, is recognized when a contractual promise to a customer (i.e., a performance obligation) has been fulfilled by transferring control over the promised goods and services to the customer, substantially all of which is at the point in time of shipment to or receipt of the products by the customer or when the services are performed. If contracts contain customer acceptance provisions, revenue would be recognized upon the satisfaction of acceptance criteria. The amount of revenue to be recognized is based on the consideration Alcon expects to receive in exchange for its goods and services. If a contract contains more than one performance obligation, the consideration is allocated based on the relative stand-alone selling price of each performance obligation.
Surgical equipment may be sold together with other products and services under a single contract and may be structured as an outright cash sale, an installment sale, or a lease. Surgical equipment installment sales and leases have a fixed payment amount which the customer may pay either in fixed intervals or as the customer purchases consumables and/or implantables. Revenues are recognized upon satisfaction of each of the performance obligations in the contract and the consideration is allocated based on the relative stand-alone selling price of each performance obligation.
Surgical equipment revenue from outright cash sales and installment sales arrangements is recognized at the point in time when control is transferred to the customer. The current portion of long-term receivables from customers and long-term receivables from customers for installment sales arrangements are recorded in "Other current assets" (see "Current portion of long-term receivables from customers" in Note 14) and "Financial assets" (see "Long-term receivables from customers" in Note 11), respectively. Financing income for installment sales arrangements longer than twelve months is recognized over the term of the arrangement in "Other income". Alcon applies the practical expedient under IFRS 15 to installment sales arrangements that are twelve months or less in duration.
In addition to cash and installment sales, revenue is recognized under finance and operating lease arrangements. Leases in which Alcon transfers substantially all the risks and rewards incidental to ownership to the customer are treated as finance lease arrangements. Revenue from finance lease arrangements is recognized at amounts equal to the fair value of the equipment, which approximates the present value of the minimum lease payments under the arrangements. As interest rates embedded in lease arrangements are approximately market rates, revenue under finance lease arrangements is comparable to revenue for outright sales. Finance income for arrangements longer than twelve months is deferred and subsequently recognized based on a pattern that approximates the use of the effective interest method and recorded in "Other income". Operating lease revenue for equipment rentals is recognized on a straight-line basis over the lease term in "Net sales".
The consideration Alcon receives in exchange for its goods or services may be fixed or variable. Variable consideration is only recognized when it is highly probable that a significant reversal of cumulative sales will not occur. The most common elements of variable consideration are listed below:
Rebates and discounts granted to government agencies, wholesalers, retail pharmacies, managed health-care organizations and other customers, estimated payments for Medicare Part D prescription drug program coverage gap (commonly called the "donut hole"), patient co-pay program coupon utilization, as well as chargebacks are provisioned and recorded as a deduction from revenue at the time the related revenues are recorded or when the incentives are offered. They are calculated based on historical experience, regulations, the specific terms in the individual agreements, product pricing, channels and payors.
Cash discounts are offered to customers to encourage prompt payment and are provisioned and recorded as revenue deductions at the time the related sales are recorded.
Sales returns provisions are recognized and recorded as revenue deductions when there is historical experience of Alcon agreeing to customer returns and Alcon can reasonably estimate expected future returns. In doing so, the estimated rate of return is applied, determined based on historical experience of customer returns and considering any other relevant factors. This is applied to the amounts invoiced, also considering the amount of returned products to be destroyed versus products that can be placed back in inventory for resale. Where shipments are made on a re-sale or return basis, without sufficient historical experience for estimating sales returns, revenue is only recorded when there is evidence of consumption or when the right of return has expired.
Provisions for revenue deductions are adjusted to actual amounts as rebates, discounts, chargebacks, payment for Medicare Part D prescription drug program, patient co-pay program coupon utilization and returns are processed. The provision represents estimates of the related obligations, requiring the use of judgment when estimating the effect of these sales deductions.
Other revenues
"Other revenues" include revenue from contract manufacturing services which are recognized over time as the service obligations are completed and third party royalty income. Associated costs for contract manufacturing services are recognized in "Cost of other revenues".
Research & development
Research & development
Internal research & development ("R&D") costs are fully charged to "Research & development" in the Consolidated Income Statement in the period in which they are incurred. Alcon considers that regulatory and other uncertainties inherent in the development of new products preclude the capitalization of internal development expenses as an intangible asset until marketing approval from a regulatory authority is obtained in a major market such as the United States, the European Union, Switzerland, China or Japan.
Payments made to third parties to in-license or acquire intellectual property rights and products, including initial upfront and subsequent milestone payments, are capitalized as intangible assets. If additional payments are made to the originator company to continue to perform R&D activities, an evaluation is made as to the nature of the payments. Such additional payments will be expensed if they are deemed to be compensation for subcontracted R&D services not resulting in an additional transfer of intellectual property rights to Alcon. Such additional payments will be capitalized if they are deemed to be compensation for the transfer to Alcon of additional intellectual property developed at the risk of the originator company. Subsequent internal R&D costs in relation to IPR&D and other assets are expensed until such time that technical feasibility can be proven, as demonstrated by the receipt of marketing approval for the related product from a regulatory authority in a major market.
Equity-based compensation
Equity-based compensation
Each of the periods presented include expense related to incentive compensation provided to eligible Alcon associates in the form of equity-settled or equity-based awards including restricted stock units ("RSUs") and performance stock units ("PSUs").
Alcon expenses the fair values of RSUs and PSUs granted to associates as compensation over the related vesting periods within the various functions where the associates are employed. The fair values of the awards are determined on their grant dates and are adjusted to account for the specific provisions of each of the corresponding grant agreements.
Alcon RSUs do not entitle the recipients to dividends. As such, the fair value upon grant is based on the Alcon share price at the grant date adjusted for potential future dividends to be paid within the holding period. The fair value of these grants, after making adjustments for assumptions related to their forfeiture during the vesting period, is expensed on a straight-line basis over the respective vesting period.
PSUs are subject to certain performance criteria being achieved during the vesting period and require plan participants to provide services during the vesting period. PSUs granted under Alcon's plans are subject to performance criteria based on internal performance metrics. The expense is determined taking into account assumptions concerning performance during the period relative to targets and expected forfeitures due to plan participants not meeting their service conditions. These assumptions are periodically adjusted. Any change in estimates for past services is recorded immediately as an expense or income in the Consolidated Income Statement and amounts for future periods are expensed over the remaining vesting period. As a result, at the end of the vesting period, the total charge during the whole vesting period represents the amount that will finally vest. The number of equity instruments that finally vest is determined at the vesting date.
If a plan participant leaves Alcon for reasons other than retirement, disability or death, then unvested restricted shares, RSUs and PSUs are forfeited, unless determined otherwise by the provision of the plan rules or by the Compensation Committee of the Company's Board of Directors, for example, in connection with a reorganization.
Restructuring charges
Restructuring charges
Restructuring provisions are recognized for the direct expenditures arising from the restructuring, where the plans are sufficiently detailed and where appropriate communication to those affected has been made.
Charges to increase restructuring provisions are included in "Other expense" in the Consolidated Income Statement. Corresponding releases are recorded in "Other income" in the Consolidated Income Statement.
Taxes
Taxes
Taxes on income are expensed in the same periods as the revenues and expenses to which they relate and include any interest and penalties incurred during the period. Deferred taxes are determined using the comprehensive liability method and are calculated on the temporary differences that arise between the tax basis of an asset or liability and its carrying value in the balance sheet prepared for purposes of these Consolidated Financial Statements, except for those temporary differences related to investments in subsidiaries where the timing of their reversal can be controlled and it is probable that the difference will not reverse in the foreseeable future. Alcon recognizes deferred taxes for a new temporary difference where there are previously unrecognized temporary differences, instead of adjusting the amount of those unrecognized differences, for changes in the underlying economics where the initial recognition exemption applies. Since the retained earnings are reinvested, withholding or other taxes on eventual distribution of a subsidiary's retained earnings are only taken into account when a dividend has been planned.
The estimated amounts for current and deferred tax assets or liabilities, including any amounts related to any uncertain tax positions, are based on currently known facts and circumstances. Tax returns are based on an interpretation of tax laws and regulations and reflect estimates based on these judgments and interpretations. The tax returns are subject to examination by the competent taxing authorities which may result in an assessment being made requiring payments of additional tax, interest or penalties. Inherent uncertainties exist in the estimates of the tax positions.
The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (“OECD") has published Global Anti-Base Erosion (“GloBE”) Model Rules, which include a minimum 15% tax rate by jurisdiction ("Pillar Two"). For the periods ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, we have applied the IASB amendment to IAS 12, Income Taxes, which provides a mandatory temporary exception from recognizing or disclosing deferred taxes related to Pillar Two.
Earnings per share
Earnings per share
Basic earnings per share is based on the weighted average number of common shares outstanding. Diluted earnings per share is based on the weighted average number of common shares outstanding and all dilutive potential common shares outstanding.
New standards and interpretations recently adopted and not yet adopted
New standards and interpretations recently adopted
Effective January 1, 2024, Alcon adopted Amendments to International Accounting Standards 1 ("IAS 1"), Presentation of Financial Statements, which clarified the criteria used in determining the classification on the balance sheet of a liability as non-current where an entity has the right to postpone settlement of the liability for at least twelve months after the reporting date. Upon adoption of the amendment, current financial debts of $82 million for which Alcon has a right to roll over for at least twelve months after the December 31, 2023 balance sheet date were retrospectively reclassified to non-current financial debts.
In July 2024, the IASB approved an International Financial Reporting Interpretations Committee ("IFRIC") agenda decision, Disclosure of Revenues and Expenses for Reportable Segments, related to application of the requirements in IFRS 8, Operating Segments, to disclose specified amounts related to segment profit or loss for each reportable segment. Upon adoption of this IFRIC agenda decision, Alcon has added incremental disclosures related to reportable segments in Note 4.
New standards and interpretations not yet adopted
In April 2024, the IASB issued IFRS 18, Presentation and Disclosure in Financial Statements, which will replace IAS 1, Presentation of Financial Statements and accompanies limited amendments to other standards which will be effective upon the adoption of the new standard. IFRS 18 will be retroactively effective for our annual reporting periods beginning on January 1, 2027, with early adoption permitted. The standard is expected to improve comparability and transparency of financial statements by requiring defined subtotals in the Consolidated Income Statement, requiring disclosure of management-defined performance measures and adding new principles for aggregation and disaggregation of information. Alcon is currently evaluating the impact of this standard on its Consolidated Financial Statements.
Other than previously described, as of December 31, 2024 there are no IFRS Accounting Standards, interpretations or amendments not yet effective that would be expected to have a material impact on Alcon upon adoption.
v3.25.0.1
Selected accounting policies (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Disclosure Of Notes And Other Explanatory Information [Abstract]  
Disclosure of useful lives for property, plant and equipment
The below table shows the respective useful lives for property, plant and equipment.
 Useful life
Buildings and improvements
10 to 40 years
Machinery and other equipment 
Machinery and equipment
5 to 20 years
Furniture and vehicles
5 to 10 years
Computer hardware
3 to 7 years
The below table summarizes the movements of property, plant & equipment in 2024.
($ millions)LandBuildings & improvementsConstruction
in progress
Machinery &
other equipment
Total
Cost
January 1, 202438 2,294 1,023 3,989 7,344 
Additions
20 368 128 518 
Impact of business combinations— — — 
Disposals and derecognitions(1)
— (20)(4)(107)(131)
Reclassifications for assets placed in service— 87 (421)334 — 
Currency translation effects(1)(42)(26)(75)(144)
December 31, 202439 2,339 940 4,270 7,588 
Accumulated depreciation
January 1, 2024 (952)(2)(2,021)(2,975)
Depreciation charge— (111)— (281)(392)
Impairment charges— — — (1)(1)
Disposals and derecognitions(1)
— 16 — 99 115 
Currency translation effects— 18 35 54 
December 31, 2024 (1,029)(1)(2,169)(3,199)
Net book value at December 31, 202439 1,310 939 2,101 4,389 
(1)Derecognition of assets that are no longer used and are not considered to have a significant disposal value or other alternative use.
The below table summarizes the movements of property, plant & equipment in 2023.
($ millions)LandBuildings & improvementsConstruction
in progress
Machinery &
other equipment
Total
Cost
January 1, 202335 2,091 955 3,694 6,775 
Additions
98 474 129 703 
Disposals and derecognitions(1)
— (28)(7)(177)(212)
Reclassifications for assets placed in service— 109 (412)303 — 
Currency translation effects24 13 40 78 
December 31, 202338 2,294 1,023 3,989 7,344 
Accumulated depreciation
January 1, 2023 (870)(2)(1,878)(2,750)
Depreciation charge— (100)— (285)(385)
Disposals and derecognitions(1)
— 28 — 158 186 
Currency translation effects— (10)— (16)(26)
December 31, 2023 (952)(2)(2,021)(2,975)
Net book value at December 31, 202338 1,342 1,021 1,968 4,369 
(1)Derecognition of assets that are no longer used and are not considered to have a significant disposal value or other alternative use.
Disclosure of useful lives for intangible assets and location in combined income statement
The below table shows the respective useful lives for available-for-use intangible assets and the location in the Consolidated Income Statement in which the respective amortization and any potential impairment charge is recognized.
 Useful lifeIncome statement location for
amortization and impairment charges
Currently marketed products
5 to 20 years
"Cost of net sales"
Marketing know-how
25 years
"Cost of net sales"
Technologies
10 to 20 years
"Cost of net sales" or "Research and Development"
Other (including software)
3 to 10 years
In the respective functional expense
Alcon brand nameNot amortized, indefinite useful life"Other expense"
v3.25.0.1
Segment information (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Operating Segments [Abstract]  
Disclosure of operating segments
Net sales and other revenues by segment
($ millions)202420232022
Surgical
Implantables1,775 1,703 1,725 
Consumables2,861 2,719 2,499 
Equipment/other886 892 821 
Total Surgical net sales5,522 5,314 5,045 
Vision Care
Contact lenses2,609 2,400 2,192 
Ocular health1,705 1,656 1,417 
Total Vision Care net sales4,314 4,056 3,609 
Total net sales9,836 9,370 8,654 
Surgical other revenues
— — 
Vision Care other revenues71 85 63 
Total other revenues
75 85 63 
Total net sales and other revenues9,911 9,455 8,717 
Segment contribution and reconciliation to income before taxes
The below table summarizes segment contribution, including material items of income and expense as required by IFRS 8, Operating Segments, and the associated IFRIC agenda decision published in July 2024. The below table also includes a reconciliation of segment contribution to Income before taxes.
SurgicalVision CareNot allocated to segmentsTotal
($ millions)202420232022202420232022202420232022202420232022
Net sales5,522 5,314 5,045 4,314 4,056 3,609    9,836 9,370 8,654 
Other revenues— — 71 85 63 — — — 75 85 63 
Cost of net sales(2,014)(1,898)(1,835)(1,605)(1,535)(1,410)(709)(708)(665)(4,328)(4,141)(3,910)
Cost of other revenues(4)— — (67)(67)(59)— — — (71)(67)(59)
Selling, general & administration(1,461)(1,435)(1,388)(1,467)(1,473)(1,391)(322)(301)(289)(3,250)(3,209)(3,068)
Research & development(580)(527)(486)(284)(289)(212)(12)(12)(4)(876)(828)(702)
Other income— — — — — — 77 80 36 77 80 36 
Other expense— — — — — — (50)(251)(342)(50)(251)(342)
Segment contribution and Operating income1,467 1,454 1,336 962 777 600 (1,016)(1,192)(1,264)1,413 1,039 672 
Interest expense(192)(189)(134)(192)(189)(134)
Other financial income & expense43 (18)(75)43 (18)(75)
Share of (loss) from associated companies(8)— — (8)— — 
Income before taxes1,256 832 463 
Included in segment contribution are:
($ millions)202420232022
Depreciation of property, plant & equipment:
Surgical
(147)(144)(131)
Vision Care
(241)(237)(198)
Not allocated to segments(4)(4)(1)
Total depreciation of property, plant & equipment(392)(385)(330)
Depreciation of right-of-use assets:
Surgical
(50)(49)(46)
Vision Care
(33)(42)(30)
Total depreciation of right-of-use assets(83)(91)(76)
Impairment charges on property, plant & equipment, net:
Surgical
(1)— (2)
Total impairment charges on property, plant & equipment, net(1) (2)
Equity-based compensation:
Surgical
(81)(78)(74)
Vision Care
(58)(64)(61)
Not allocated to segments(23)(17)(17)
Total equity-based compensation(162)(159)(152)
Disclosure of net sales and selected non-current assets by region
The below table shows the United States, International and countries that accounted for more than 5% of at least one of the respective Alcon totals, for net sales for the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022, and for selected non-current assets at December 31, 2024 and 2023.
 
Net sales(2)
Total of selected
non-current assets(3)
($ millions unless indicated otherwise)(1)
20242023202220242023
 
Country          
United States4,511 46 %4,312 46 %3,897 45 %11,380 51 %11,490 51 %
International5,325 54 %5,058 54 %4,757 55 %10,991 49 %11,219 49 %
thereof:
Switzerland (country of domicile)79 %64 %59 %8,800 39 %9,137 40 %
Japan554 %583 %568 %28 — %34 — %
China560 %526 %474 %21 — %10 — %
Other4,132 42 %3,885 41 %3,656 42 %2,142 10 %2,038 %
Company total9,836 100 %9,370 100 %8,654 100 %22,371 100 %22,709 100 %
(1)International percentages may not sum due to rounding.
(2)Net sales by location of third-party customer.
(3)Includes property, plant & equipment, right-of-use assets, goodwill and other intangible assets.
v3.25.0.1
Interest expense and other financial income & expense (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Analysis of income and expense [abstract]  
Disclosure of components of interest expense
Interest expense
($ millions)202420232022
Interest expense on financial debts(165)(162)(110)
Interest expense from discounting long-term liabilities(8)(10)(9)
Interest expense on lease liabilities(19)(17)(15)
Total interest expense(192)(189)(134)
Disclosure of components of other financial income & expense
Other financial income & expense
($ millions)202420232022
Interest income84 45 16 
Loss on extinguishment of financial debt— — (5)
Other financial expense(12)(11)(12)
Monetary gain/(loss) from hyperinflation accounting(13)(16)
Currency result, net(30)(39)(58)
Total other financial income & expense43 (18)(75)
v3.25.0.1
Taxes (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Income Taxes [Abstract]  
Disclosure of components of income before taxes
Income before taxes
($ millions)202420232022
Switzerland493 359 234 
Foreign763 473 229 
Total income before taxes1,256 832 463 
Disclosure of components of current and deferred income taxes
Current and deferred income taxes
($ millions)202420232022
Switzerland(95)(74)(17)
Foreign(239)(93)(146)
Current income tax (expense)(334)(167)(163)
Switzerland25 313 53 
Foreign71 (4)(18)
Deferred tax income96 309 35 
Total income tax (expense)/income(238)142 (128)
Disclosure of reconciliation of tax rate The main elements contributing to the difference between Alcon's overall applicable tax rate and the effective tax rate are summarized in the below table.
 202420232022
($ millions unless indicated otherwise)(1)
%%%
Applicable tax rate(256)20.4 %(168)20.2 %(104)22.5 %
Effect of disallowed expenditures(4)0.3 %(7)0.8 %(13)2.8 %
Effect of deemed legal entity liquidation
57 (4.5)%— — %— — %
Effect of equity-based compensation(2)0.2 %(3)0.4 %(13)2.8 %
Effect of tax credits and allowances18 (1.4)%12 (1.4)%11 (2.4)%
Effect of deductibility of a statutory expense in Switzerland(2)
— — %568 (68.3)%23(5.0)%
Effect of adjustments to contingent consideration and other liabilities— — %(0.2)%(0.6)%
Effect of changes in uncertain tax positions(3)
(43)3.4 %(271)32.6 %10 (2.2)%
Effect of previously unrecognized tax loss carryforward12 (1.0)%11 (1.3)%— — %
Effect of 2022 APA on prior years— — %(0.7)%(37)8.0 %
Effect of non-deductible amortization(9)0.7 %(8)1.0 %(7)1.5 %
Effect of other items(10)0.8 %(6)0.7 %(0.4)%
Effect of prior year items(1)0.1 %(0.7)%(3)0.6 %
Effective tax rate(238)18.9 %142 (17.1)%(128)27.6 %
(1)Percentages may not sum due to rounding.
(2)Includes agreements for fiscal years 2023 and 2022. 2023 also includes a long-term Swiss Tax Agreement; however, it is uncertain whether Alcon will obtain a similar treatment for future years for a portion of the benefit.
(3)Includes the net effect of partial reserves and benefits recognized for the deductibility of statutory expenses in Switzerland. 2024 also includes reserves for the deemed liquidation of a legal entity. 2023 also includes the release of reserves in US and Germany following the conclusion of tax audits and other items.
v3.25.0.1
Share capital, dividends and earnings per share (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Earnings per share [abstract]  
Movement in the shares
The below table shows the movement in the shares.
(shares in millions)(1)
Common stock shares outstandingTreasury stock sharesTotal shares
January 1, 2022490.1 9.6 499.7 
Settlement of equity-based awards1.7 (1.7)— 
December 31, 2022491.8 7.9 499.7 
Settlement of equity-based awards1.5 (1.5)— 
December 31, 2023493.2 6.4 499.7 
Settlement of equity-based awards1.4 (1.4) 
December 31, 2024494.6 5.1 499.7 
(1)Totals may not sum due to rounding.
v3.25.0.1
Property, plant & equipment (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Property, plant and equipment [abstract]  
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment
The below table shows the respective useful lives for property, plant and equipment.
 Useful life
Buildings and improvements
10 to 40 years
Machinery and other equipment 
Machinery and equipment
5 to 20 years
Furniture and vehicles
5 to 10 years
Computer hardware
3 to 7 years
The below table summarizes the movements of property, plant & equipment in 2024.
($ millions)LandBuildings & improvementsConstruction
in progress
Machinery &
other equipment
Total
Cost
January 1, 202438 2,294 1,023 3,989 7,344 
Additions
20 368 128 518 
Impact of business combinations— — — 
Disposals and derecognitions(1)
— (20)(4)(107)(131)
Reclassifications for assets placed in service— 87 (421)334 — 
Currency translation effects(1)(42)(26)(75)(144)
December 31, 202439 2,339 940 4,270 7,588 
Accumulated depreciation
January 1, 2024 (952)(2)(2,021)(2,975)
Depreciation charge— (111)— (281)(392)
Impairment charges— — — (1)(1)
Disposals and derecognitions(1)
— 16 — 99 115 
Currency translation effects— 18 35 54 
December 31, 2024 (1,029)(1)(2,169)(3,199)
Net book value at December 31, 202439 1,310 939 2,101 4,389 
(1)Derecognition of assets that are no longer used and are not considered to have a significant disposal value or other alternative use.
The below table summarizes the movements of property, plant & equipment in 2023.
($ millions)LandBuildings & improvementsConstruction
in progress
Machinery &
other equipment
Total
Cost
January 1, 202335 2,091 955 3,694 6,775 
Additions
98 474 129 703 
Disposals and derecognitions(1)
— (28)(7)(177)(212)
Reclassifications for assets placed in service— 109 (412)303 — 
Currency translation effects24 13 40 78 
December 31, 202338 2,294 1,023 3,989 7,344 
Accumulated depreciation
January 1, 2023 (870)(2)(1,878)(2,750)
Depreciation charge— (100)— (285)(385)
Disposals and derecognitions(1)
— 28 — 158 186 
Currency translation effects— (10)— (16)(26)
December 31, 2023 (952)(2)(2,021)(2,975)
Net book value at December 31, 202338 1,342 1,021 1,968 4,369 
(1)Derecognition of assets that are no longer used and are not considered to have a significant disposal value or other alternative use.
v3.25.0.1
Goodwill and other intangible assets (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Intangible Assets [Abstract]  
Summary of movements of goodwill and intangible assets
The below table summarizes the movements of goodwill and other intangible assets in 2024.
 Intangible assets other than goodwill
($ millions)GoodwillAlcon
brand
name
Acquired
in-process research & development
TechnologiesCurrently
marketed
products
Marketing
know-how
Other
intangible
assets
(including
software)
Total
Cost
January 1, 20248,926 2,980 918 5,369 6,204 5,960 810 22,241 
Impact of business combinations20 — — — 75 — — 75 
Additions— — 45 — 32 — 130 207 
Disposals and derecognitions(1)
— — — (21)(82)— (44)(147)
December 31, 20248,946 2,980 963 5,348 6,229 5,960 896 22,376 
Accumulated amortization
January 1, 2024  (179)(5,309)(4,186)(3,099)(408)(13,181)
Amortization charge— — — (32)(378)(239)(94)(743)
Disposals and derecognitions(1)
— — — 21 79 — 44 144 
Impairment charges— — (9)— — — — (9)
December 31, 2024  (188)(5,320)(4,485)(3,338)(458)(13,789)
Net book value at December 31, 20248,946 2,980 775 28 1,744 2,622 438 8,587 
(1)     Derecognitions of assets that are no longer used or being developed and are not considered to have a significant disposal value or other alternative use. The current year period also includes currently marketed products divested as described in Note 21.3.
The below table summarizes the allocation of the net book values of goodwill and other intangible assets by reportable segment at December 31, 2024.
Intangible assets other than goodwill
($ millions)GoodwillAlcon
brand
name
Acquired
in-process research & development
TechnologiesCurrently
marketed
products
Marketing
know-how
Other
intangible
assets
(including
software)
Total
Surgical4,564 — 562 28 581 2,622 271 4,064 
Vision Care4,382 — 213 — 1,163 — 167 1,543 
Not allocated to segments— 2,980 — — — — — 2,980 
Net book value at December 31, 20248,946 2,980 775 28 1,744 2,622 438 8,587 
The below table summarizes the movements of goodwill and other intangible assets in 2023.
Intangible assets other than goodwill
($ millions)GoodwillAlcon
brand
name
Acquired
in-process research & development
TechnologiesCurrently
marketed
products
Marketing
know-how
Other
intangible
assets
(including
software)
Total
Cost
January 1, 20238,926 2,980 920 5,369 6,189 5,960 720 22,138 
Impact of asset acquisitions— — — — — — 
Additions— — — — 19 — 96 115 
Disposals and derecognitions(1)
— — (2)— (4)— (8)(14)
December 31, 20238,926 2,980 918 5,369 6,204 5,960 810 22,241 
Accumulated amortization
January 1, 2023— — (181)(5,278)(3,809)(2,861)(320)(12,449)
Amortization charge— — — (31)(381)(238)(95)(745)
Disposals and derecognitions(1)
— — — — 13 
December 31, 2023  (179)(5,309)(4,186)(3,099)(408)(13,181)
Net book value at December 31, 20238,926 2,980 739 60 2,018 2,861 402 9,060 
(1)     Derecognitions of assets that are no longer used or being developed and are not considered to have a significant disposal value or other alternative use.
The below table summarizes the allocation of the net book values of goodwill and other intangible assets by reportable segment at December 31, 2023.
Intangible assets other than goodwill
($ millions)GoodwillAlcon
brand
name
Acquired
in-process research & development
TechnologiesCurrently
marketed
products
Marketing
know-how
Other
intangible
assets
(including
software)
Total
Surgical4,544 — 564 60 534 2,861 241 4,260 
Vision Care
4,382 — 175 — 1,484 — 161 1,820 
Not allocated to segments— 2,980 — — — — — 2,980 
Net book value at December 31, 20238,926 2,980 739 60 2,018 2,861 402 9,060 
Assumptions used in calculations for the recoverable amounts of goodwill and intangible assets
The following assumptions were used in the calculations for the recoverable amounts of goodwill and the Alcon brand name at December 31, 2024 and 2023:
December 31, 2024
December 31, 2023
(As a percentage)SurgicalVision CareSurgicalVision Care
Terminal growth rate3.0 3.0 3.0 3.0 
Discount rate (post-tax)8.5 8.0 9.0 8.75 
Intangible asset impairment charges
The below table shows the intangible asset impairment charges in 2024, 2023 and 2022.
($ millions)202420232022
Surgical(9)— (60)
Vision Care— — (2)
Total(9) (62)
v3.25.0.1
Deferred tax assets and liabilities (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Income Taxes [Abstract]  
Disclosure of temporary difference, unused tax losses and unused tax credits
($ millions)Property, plant & equipment
Intangible assets and deductible goodwill
Pensions and other benefit obligations of associatesInventoriesTax loss carry-forwardsOther assets, provisions and accrualsTotal
Gross deferred tax assets at
December 31, 2023
39 267 85 377 194 618 1,580 
Gross deferred tax liabilities at
December 31, 2023
(337)(1,417)— (30)— (150)(1,934)
Net deferred tax balance at
December 31, 2023
(298)(1,150)85 347 194 468 (354)
At December 31, 2023(298)(1,150)85 347 194 468 (354)
(Charged)/credited to income(1)95 11 (15)96 
Credited to equity— — — — 
Credited/(charged) to other comprehensive income— (7)(7)— (28)(41)
Impact of business combinations— (17)— — — (11)
Net deferred tax balance
at December 31, 2024
(298)(1,072)80 351 187 449 (303)
Gross deferred tax assets at
December 31, 2024
34 246 80 384 187 627 1,558 
Gross deferred tax liabilities at
December 31, 2024
(332)(1,318)— (33)— (178)(1,861)
Net deferred tax balance at
December 31, 2024
(298)(1,072)80 351 187 449 (303)
($ millions)Property, plant & equipment
Intangible assets and deductible goodwill
Pensions and other benefit obligations of associatesInventoriesTax loss carry-forwardsOther assets, provisions and accrualsTotal
Gross deferred tax assets at December 31, 202231 79 352 231 642 1,339 
Gross deferred tax liabilities at December 31, 2022(307)(1,529)— (26)— (130)(1,992)
Net deferred tax balance at December 31, 2022(276)(1,525)79 326 231 512 (653)
At December 31, 2022(276)(1,525)79 326 231 512 (653)
(Charged)/credited to income(22)375 — 21 (40)(25)309 
Credited/(charged) to equity— — — — (15)(12)
Credited/(charged) to other comprehensive income— — — — (4)
Net deferred tax balance at December 31, 2023(298)(1,150)85 347 194 468 (354)
Gross deferred tax assets at December 31, 202339 267 85 377 194 618 1,580 
Gross deferred tax liabilities at December 31, 2023(337)(1,417)— (30)— (150)(1,934)
Net deferred tax balance at December 31, 2023(298)(1,150)85 347 194 468 (354)
The below tables present the gross value of tax loss carryforwards that have or have not been recognized as deferred tax assets, with their expiry dates, as of December 31, 2024 and 2023.
($ millions)UnrecognizedRecognized
Total at
December 31, 2024
Within five years55 61 
More than five years443 375 818 
Not subject to expiry— 691 691 
Gross value of tax loss carryforwards
449 1,121 1,570 
($ millions)UnrecognizedRecognized
Total at
December 31, 2023
Within five years29 32 
More than five years443 462 905 
Not subject to expiry— 681 681 
Gross value of tax loss carryforwards
446 1,172 1,618 
Disclosure of components in deferred taxes
The below table presents the Net deferred tax balance as of December 31, 2024 after offsetting $1.1 billion of deferred tax assets and liabilities within the same tax jurisdiction.
($ millions)At December 31, 2024
Deferred tax assets421 
Deferred tax liabilities(724)
Net deferred tax liabilities(303)
The below table presents the Net deferred tax balance as of December 31, 2023 after offsetting $1.1 billion of deferred tax assets and liabilities within the same tax jurisdiction.
($ millions)At December 31, 2023
Deferred tax assets443 
Deferred tax liabilities(797)
Net deferred tax liabilities(354)
Disclosure of impact of deferred taxes on current taxes payable
The below table presents deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities expected to have an impact on current taxes payable after more than twelve months.
($ billions)At December 31, 2024At December 31, 2023
Deferred tax assets1.2 1.2 
Deferred tax liabilities1.7 1.8 
v3.25.0.1
Financial and other non-current assets (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Subclassifications of assets, liabilities and equities [abstract]  
Disclosure of financial assets
Financial assets
($ millions)20242023
Long-term note receivable and other financial assets measured at amortized cost
175 161 
Long-term financial investments measured at FVOCI(1)
282 147 
Long-term financial investments measured at FVPL
Long-term receivables from customers121 126 
Non-current minimum lease payments from finance lease agreements28 38 
Long-term loans, advances and security deposits45 44 
Total financial assets652 517 
(1) Includes $11 million of Long-term convertible notes due from associated companies as of December 31, 2024 and 2023. Refer to Note 24 for additional information.
The below tables provide detail related to financial instruments as of December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023.
($ millions)Note2024
Cash and cash equivalents
Cash in current accounts378 
Cash held in time deposits and money market funds1,298 
Total cash and cash equivalents1,676 
Financial assets - measured at fair value through other comprehensive income ("FVOCI")
Long-term financial investments11282 
Total financial assets - measured at FVOCI282 
Financial assets - measured at amortized cost
Trade receivables131,736 
Current portion of long-term receivables from customers(1)
14117 
Current portion of minimum lease payments from finance lease agreements(1)
1423 
Other receivables, security deposits and current assets(1)
14124 
Time deposits with original maturity greater than three months153 
Long-term note receivable and other financial assets11175 
Long-term receivables from customers11121 
Non-current minimum lease payments from finance lease agreements1128 
Long-term loans, advances and security deposits1145 
Total financial assets - measured at amortized cost2,522 
Financial assets - mandatorily measured at fair value through profit and loss ("FVPL")
Deferred compensation assets(2)
11180 
Current portion of long-term financial investments(1)
14
Derivative financial instruments(1)
1412 
Long-term financial investments11
Total financial assets - mandatorily measured at FVPL194 
Total financial assets4,674 
Financial liabilities - measured at amortized cost or cost
Current financial liabilities
Financial debts16101 
Lease liabilities1568 
Trade payables773 
Total current financial liabilities - measured at amortized cost or cost942 
Non-current financial liabilities
Financial debts164,538 
Lease liabilities15429 
Total non-current financial liabilities - measured at amortized cost or cost4,967 
Total financial liabilities - measured at amortized cost or cost5,909 
Financial liabilities - measured at FVPL
Contingent consideration liabilities1896 
Derivative financial instruments16
Total financial liabilities - measured at FVPL100 
Total financial liabilities6,009 
Net financial assets and financial liabilities(1,335)
(1) Recorded in Other current assets.
(2) Recorded in Other non-current assets.
($ millions)Note2023
Cash and cash equivalents
Cash in current accounts270 
Cash held in time deposits and money market funds824 
Total cash and cash equivalents1,094 
Financial assets - measured at fair value through other comprehensive income ("FVOCI")
Long-term financial investments11147 
Total financial assets - measured at FVOCI147 
Financial assets - measured at amortized cost
Trade receivables131,770 
Income tax receivables34 
Other current assets (excluding prepaid expenses and other current assets measured at FVPL)14306 
Long-term note receivable and other financial assets11161 
Long-term receivables from customers11126 
Non-current minimum lease payments from finance lease agreements1138 
Long-term loans, advances and security deposits1144 
Total financial assets - measured at amortized cost2,479 
Financial assets - mandatorily measured at fair value through profit and loss ("FVPL")
Deferred compensation assets(1)
11163 
Current portion of long-term financial investments(2)
14
Derivative financial instruments(2)
14
Long-term financial investments11
Total financial assets - mandatorily measured at FVPL173 
Total financial assets3,893 
Financial liabilities - measured at amortized cost or cost
Current financial liabilities
Financial debts1653 
Lease liabilities1571 
Trade payables811 
Total current financial liabilities - measured at amortized cost or cost935 
Non-current financial liabilities
Financial debts164,676 
Lease liabilities15335 
Total non-current financial liabilities - measured at amortized cost or cost5,011 
Total financial liabilities - measured at amortized cost or cost5,946 
Financial liabilities - measured at FVPL
Contingent consideration liabilities1890 
Derivative financial instruments1610 
Total financial liabilities - measured at FVPL100 
Total financial liabilities6,046 
Net financial assets and financial liabilities(2,153)
(1) Recorded in Other non-current assets.
(2) Recorded in Other current assets.
Disclosure of maturity analysis of finance lease payments receivable
The below table shows the receivables of the gross investments in finance leases and the net present value of the minimum lease payments, as well as unearned finance income, related to surgical equipment lease arrangements. The finance income is recorded in "Other income".
20242023
($ millions)Total future paymentsUnearned interest incomePresent
value
ProvisionNet
book
value
Total future payments Unearned interest income Present
value
Provision Net
book
value
Not later than one year(1)
25 (2)23 — 23 30 (3)27 — 27 
Between one and five years36 (2)34 (8)26 51 (2)49 (12)37 
Later than five years— — — — 
Total63 (4)59 (8)51 82 (5)77 (12)65 
(1) The current portion of the minimum lease payments is recorded in Trade receivables or Other current assets (to the extent not yet invoiced).
Disclosure of details of non-current assets
Other non-current assets
($ millions)
Note
20242023
Deferred compensation plans180 163 
Prepaid post-employment benefit plans
22
Investments in associated companies
24
293 10 
Other non-current assets115 119 
Total other non-current assets594 298 
v3.25.0.1
Inventories (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Inventories [Abstract]  
Disclosure of details of inventories
($ millions)20242023
Raw material, consumables438 434 
Work in progress199 197 
Finished products1,631 1,691 
Total inventories2,268 2,322 
v3.25.0.1
Trade receivables (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Subclassifications of assets, liabilities and equities [abstract]  
Summary of trade receivables
The below tables provide details related to Trade receivables as of December 31, 2024 and 2023, including trade receivables that are not overdue as specified in the payment terms and conditions established with Alcon's customers, as well as an analysis of overdue amounts, expected credit loss rates and related provisions for doubtful trade receivables.
2024
($ millions)Gross trade receivablesProvisionTrade receivables, netExpected credit loss rates
Not overdue1,448 (2)1,446 0.1 %
Past due for not more than one month137 (1)136 0.7 %
Past due for more than one month but less than three months84 (2)82 2.4 %
Past due for more than three months but less than six months49 (3)46 6.1 %
Past due for more than six months but less than one year26 (10)16 38.5 %
Past due for more than one year33 (23)10 69.7 %
Total1,777 (41)1,736 
2023
($ millions)Gross trade receivablesProvisionTrade receivables, netExpected credit loss rates
Not overdue1,452 (2)1,450 0.1 %
Past due for not more than one month143 (1)142 0.7 %
Past due for more than one month but less than three months94 (2)92 2.1 %
Past due for more than three months but less than six months54 (2)52 3.7 %
Past due for more than six months but less than one year35 (13)22 37.1 %
Past due for more than one year36 (24)12 66.7 %
Total1,814 (44)1,770 
Movement in the provision for doubtful trade receivables
The below table summarizes the movement in the provision for doubtful trade receivables.
($ millions)202420232022
January 1(44)(57)(55)
Provisions for doubtful trade receivables charged to the Consolidated Income Statement(24)(26)(40)
Utilization of provisions for doubtful trade receivables14 
Reversal of provisions for doubtful trade receivables19 26 28 
Currency translation effects(1)
December 31(41)(44)(57)
Summary of trade receivables by major currencies
Trade receivables include amounts denominated in the following major currencies:
($ millions)20242023
US dollar (USD)723 680 
Euro (EUR)303 315 
Japanese yen (JPY)138 156 
Chinese yuan (CNY)82 110 
Brazilian real (BRL)51 65 
Canadian dollar (CAD)40 40 
Indian rupee (INR)36 32 
South Korean won (KRW)34 36 
British pound (GBP)33 32 
Turkish lira (TRY)28 21 
Taiwan dollar (TWD)28 26 
Australian dollar (AUD)25 26 
Russian ruble (RUB)24 27 
Mexican peso (MXN)24 32 
Other currencies167 172 
Total trade receivables, net1,736 1,770 
v3.25.0.1
Other current assets (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Subclassifications of assets, liabilities and equities [abstract]  
Schedule of other current assets
The below table provides details related to Other current assets as of December 31, 2024 and 2023.
($ millions)20242023
Current portion of long-term receivables from customers117 116 
Current portion of minimum lease payments from finance lease agreements23 27 
Current portion of long-term financial investments measured at FVPL
Prepaid expenses117 112 
VAT receivables59 62 
Other receivables, security deposits and current assets124 101 
Derivative financial instruments12 
Total other current assets453 427 
v3.25.0.1
Right-of-use assets and Lease liabilities (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Leases1 [Abstract]  
Schedule of right-of-use assets
Right-of-use assets as of December 31, 2024 and 2023 were comprised of the following:
($ millions)20242023
Land21 14 
Buildings392 309 
Machinery & equipment and other assets36 31 
Total right-of-use assets449 354 
Depreciation charges of $83 million, $91 million and $76 million for the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022, respectively, are shown in the table below by underlying class of asset.
($ millions)202420232022
Land
Buildings62 72 58 
Machinery & equipment and other assets20 18 17 
Total depreciation of right-of-use assets83 91 76 
Contractual maturities of undiscounted lease liabilities The contractual maturities of the undiscounted lease liabilities as of December 31, 2024 and 2023 are as follows:
Lease liabilities undiscounted
($ millions)20242023
Not later than one year89 86 
Between one and five years244 222 
Later than five years307 205 
Total lease liabilities undiscounted640 513 
Lease liabilities
($ millions)20242023
Not later than one year6871
Between one and five years183 178 
Later than five years246 157 
Total lease liabilities497 406 
The below table provides details on the maturity of the contractual undiscounted cash flows for Alcon's borrowings as of December 31, 2024 and 2023.
2024
2023(1)
($ millions)Nominal amount - Current and non-current financial debtDerivativesTotal
Nominal amount - Current and non-current financial debt
DerivativesTotal
Not later than one year101 105 53 10 63 
Between one and five years2,021 — 2,021 1,163 — 1,163 
Later than five years2,550 — 2,550 3,550 — 3,550 
Total contractual undiscounted cash flows4,672 4 4,676 4,766 10 4,776 
Unamortized debt discount and issuance costs(33)— (33)(37)— (37)
Total carrying value4,639 44,6434,729104,739 
(1)     As described in Note 2, Alcon adopted Amendments to IAS 1, Presentation of Financial Statements, effective January 1, 2024, resulting in retrospective reclassification of financial debts of $82 million from current to non-current.
The below table provides details on the maturity of the future contractual interest payments commitments as of December 31, 2024 and 2023.
($ millions)20242023
Not later than one year167 167 
Between one and five years613 643 
Later than five years1,296 1,437 
Total cash flows2,076 2,247 
Schedule of additional disclosures related to leases
The below table provides additional disclosures related to Right-of-use assets and Lease liabilities.
($ millions)202420232022
Interest expense on lease liabilities19 17 15 
Expense on short-term, low value and variable leases
Total cash outflows for leases105 99 87 
Thereof:
Lease liability payments(1)
83 79 69 
Interest payments(2)
19 17 15 
Short-term, low value and variable lease payments(2)
(1)     Reported as cash outflows from financing activities net of lease incentives received.
(2)     Included within total net cash flows from operating activities.
v3.25.0.1
Non-current and current financial debts (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Financial Instruments [Abstract]  
Schedule of financial debts
The below table summarizes non-current and current Financial debts outstanding as of December 31, 2024 and 2023.
($ millions)20242023
Non-current financial debts
Local facilities (Japan), floating rate debt due 2025(1)
— 110 
2.750% Series 2026 Notes
499 498 
2.375% Series 2028 Notes
517 549 
3.000% Series 2029 Notes
995 994 
2.600% Series 2030 Notes
746 746 
5.375% Series 2032 Notes
694 693 
3.800% Series 2049 Notes
495 494 
5.750% Series 2052 Notes
592 592 
Revolving facility, floating rate due 2029— — 
Total non-current financial debts4,538 4,676 
Current financial debts
Local facilities, floating rate:
Japan(1)
26 — 
All others67 48 
Other short-term financial debts, floating rate
Derivatives10 
Total current financial debts105 63 
Total financial debts4,643 4,739 
(1)     As described in Note 2, Alcon adopted Amendments to IAS 1, Presentation of Financial Statements, effective January 1, 2024, resulting in retrospective reclassification of financial debts of $82 million from current to non-current.
Maturity of contractual undiscounted cash flows for borrowings The contractual maturities of the undiscounted lease liabilities as of December 31, 2024 and 2023 are as follows:
Lease liabilities undiscounted
($ millions)20242023
Not later than one year89 86 
Between one and five years244 222 
Later than five years307 205 
Total lease liabilities undiscounted640 513 
Lease liabilities
($ millions)20242023
Not later than one year6871
Between one and five years183 178 
Later than five years246 157 
Total lease liabilities497 406 
The below table provides details on the maturity of the contractual undiscounted cash flows for Alcon's borrowings as of December 31, 2024 and 2023.
2024
2023(1)
($ millions)Nominal amount - Current and non-current financial debtDerivativesTotal
Nominal amount - Current and non-current financial debt
DerivativesTotal
Not later than one year101 105 53 10 63 
Between one and five years2,021 — 2,021 1,163 — 1,163 
Later than five years2,550 — 2,550 3,550 — 3,550 
Total contractual undiscounted cash flows4,672 4 4,676 4,766 10 4,776 
Unamortized debt discount and issuance costs(33)— (33)(37)— (37)
Total carrying value4,639 44,6434,729104,739 
(1)     As described in Note 2, Alcon adopted Amendments to IAS 1, Presentation of Financial Statements, effective January 1, 2024, resulting in retrospective reclassification of financial debts of $82 million from current to non-current.
The below table provides details on the maturity of the future contractual interest payments commitments as of December 31, 2024 and 2023.
($ millions)20242023
Not later than one year167 167 
Between one and five years613 643 
Later than five years1,296 1,437 
Total cash flows2,076 2,247 
v3.25.0.1
Financial instruments - additional disclosures (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Financial Instruments [Abstract]  
Disclosure of financial assets
Financial assets
($ millions)20242023
Long-term note receivable and other financial assets measured at amortized cost
175 161 
Long-term financial investments measured at FVOCI(1)
282 147 
Long-term financial investments measured at FVPL
Long-term receivables from customers121 126 
Non-current minimum lease payments from finance lease agreements28 38 
Long-term loans, advances and security deposits45 44 
Total financial assets652 517 
(1) Includes $11 million of Long-term convertible notes due from associated companies as of December 31, 2024 and 2023. Refer to Note 24 for additional information.
The below tables provide detail related to financial instruments as of December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023.
($ millions)Note2024
Cash and cash equivalents
Cash in current accounts378 
Cash held in time deposits and money market funds1,298 
Total cash and cash equivalents1,676 
Financial assets - measured at fair value through other comprehensive income ("FVOCI")
Long-term financial investments11282 
Total financial assets - measured at FVOCI282 
Financial assets - measured at amortized cost
Trade receivables131,736 
Current portion of long-term receivables from customers(1)
14117 
Current portion of minimum lease payments from finance lease agreements(1)
1423 
Other receivables, security deposits and current assets(1)
14124 
Time deposits with original maturity greater than three months153 
Long-term note receivable and other financial assets11175 
Long-term receivables from customers11121 
Non-current minimum lease payments from finance lease agreements1128 
Long-term loans, advances and security deposits1145 
Total financial assets - measured at amortized cost2,522 
Financial assets - mandatorily measured at fair value through profit and loss ("FVPL")
Deferred compensation assets(2)
11180 
Current portion of long-term financial investments(1)
14
Derivative financial instruments(1)
1412 
Long-term financial investments11
Total financial assets - mandatorily measured at FVPL194 
Total financial assets4,674 
Financial liabilities - measured at amortized cost or cost
Current financial liabilities
Financial debts16101 
Lease liabilities1568 
Trade payables773 
Total current financial liabilities - measured at amortized cost or cost942 
Non-current financial liabilities
Financial debts164,538 
Lease liabilities15429 
Total non-current financial liabilities - measured at amortized cost or cost4,967 
Total financial liabilities - measured at amortized cost or cost5,909 
Financial liabilities - measured at FVPL
Contingent consideration liabilities1896 
Derivative financial instruments16
Total financial liabilities - measured at FVPL100 
Total financial liabilities6,009 
Net financial assets and financial liabilities(1,335)
(1) Recorded in Other current assets.
(2) Recorded in Other non-current assets.
($ millions)Note2023
Cash and cash equivalents
Cash in current accounts270 
Cash held in time deposits and money market funds824 
Total cash and cash equivalents1,094 
Financial assets - measured at fair value through other comprehensive income ("FVOCI")
Long-term financial investments11147 
Total financial assets - measured at FVOCI147 
Financial assets - measured at amortized cost
Trade receivables131,770 
Income tax receivables34 
Other current assets (excluding prepaid expenses and other current assets measured at FVPL)14306 
Long-term note receivable and other financial assets11161 
Long-term receivables from customers11126 
Non-current minimum lease payments from finance lease agreements1138 
Long-term loans, advances and security deposits1144 
Total financial assets - measured at amortized cost2,479 
Financial assets - mandatorily measured at fair value through profit and loss ("FVPL")
Deferred compensation assets(1)
11163 
Current portion of long-term financial investments(2)
14
Derivative financial instruments(2)
14
Long-term financial investments11
Total financial assets - mandatorily measured at FVPL173 
Total financial assets3,893 
Financial liabilities - measured at amortized cost or cost
Current financial liabilities
Financial debts1653 
Lease liabilities1571 
Trade payables811 
Total current financial liabilities - measured at amortized cost or cost935 
Non-current financial liabilities
Financial debts164,676 
Lease liabilities15335 
Total non-current financial liabilities - measured at amortized cost or cost5,011 
Total financial liabilities - measured at amortized cost or cost5,946 
Financial liabilities - measured at FVPL
Contingent consideration liabilities1890 
Derivative financial instruments1610 
Total financial liabilities - measured at FVPL100 
Total financial liabilities6,046 
Net financial assets and financial liabilities(2,153)
(1) Recorded in Other non-current assets.
(2) Recorded in Other current assets.
Disclosure of financial liabilities
The below tables provide detail related to financial instruments as of December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023.
($ millions)Note2024
Cash and cash equivalents
Cash in current accounts378 
Cash held in time deposits and money market funds1,298 
Total cash and cash equivalents1,676 
Financial assets - measured at fair value through other comprehensive income ("FVOCI")
Long-term financial investments11282 
Total financial assets - measured at FVOCI282 
Financial assets - measured at amortized cost
Trade receivables131,736 
Current portion of long-term receivables from customers(1)
14117 
Current portion of minimum lease payments from finance lease agreements(1)
1423 
Other receivables, security deposits and current assets(1)
14124 
Time deposits with original maturity greater than three months153 
Long-term note receivable and other financial assets11175 
Long-term receivables from customers11121 
Non-current minimum lease payments from finance lease agreements1128 
Long-term loans, advances and security deposits1145 
Total financial assets - measured at amortized cost2,522 
Financial assets - mandatorily measured at fair value through profit and loss ("FVPL")
Deferred compensation assets(2)
11180 
Current portion of long-term financial investments(1)
14
Derivative financial instruments(1)
1412 
Long-term financial investments11
Total financial assets - mandatorily measured at FVPL194 
Total financial assets4,674 
Financial liabilities - measured at amortized cost or cost
Current financial liabilities
Financial debts16101 
Lease liabilities1568 
Trade payables773 
Total current financial liabilities - measured at amortized cost or cost942 
Non-current financial liabilities
Financial debts164,538 
Lease liabilities15429 
Total non-current financial liabilities - measured at amortized cost or cost4,967 
Total financial liabilities - measured at amortized cost or cost5,909 
Financial liabilities - measured at FVPL
Contingent consideration liabilities1896 
Derivative financial instruments16
Total financial liabilities - measured at FVPL100 
Total financial liabilities6,009 
Net financial assets and financial liabilities(1,335)
(1) Recorded in Other current assets.
(2) Recorded in Other non-current assets.
($ millions)Note2023
Cash and cash equivalents
Cash in current accounts270 
Cash held in time deposits and money market funds824 
Total cash and cash equivalents1,094 
Financial assets - measured at fair value through other comprehensive income ("FVOCI")
Long-term financial investments11147 
Total financial assets - measured at FVOCI147 
Financial assets - measured at amortized cost
Trade receivables131,770 
Income tax receivables34 
Other current assets (excluding prepaid expenses and other current assets measured at FVPL)14306 
Long-term note receivable and other financial assets11161 
Long-term receivables from customers11126 
Non-current minimum lease payments from finance lease agreements1138 
Long-term loans, advances and security deposits1144 
Total financial assets - measured at amortized cost2,479 
Financial assets - mandatorily measured at fair value through profit and loss ("FVPL")
Deferred compensation assets(1)
11163 
Current portion of long-term financial investments(2)
14
Derivative financial instruments(2)
14
Long-term financial investments11
Total financial assets - mandatorily measured at FVPL173 
Total financial assets3,893 
Financial liabilities - measured at amortized cost or cost
Current financial liabilities
Financial debts1653 
Lease liabilities1571 
Trade payables811 
Total current financial liabilities - measured at amortized cost or cost935 
Non-current financial liabilities
Financial debts164,676 
Lease liabilities15335 
Total non-current financial liabilities - measured at amortized cost or cost5,011 
Total financial liabilities - measured at amortized cost or cost5,946 
Financial liabilities - measured at FVPL
Contingent consideration liabilities1890 
Derivative financial instruments1610 
Total financial liabilities - measured at FVPL100 
Total financial liabilities6,046 
Net financial assets and financial liabilities(2,153)
(1) Recorded in Other non-current assets.
(2) Recorded in Other current assets.
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets
The below table summarizes financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023.
 
December 31, 2024
December 31, 2023
($ millions)Level 1Level 2Level 3TotalLevel 1Level 2Level 3Total
Non-current financial assets
Long-term financial investments measured at FVOCI
81 — 201 282 — — 147 147 
Long-term financial investments measured at FVPL
— — 1 — — 1 
Deferred compensation assets
180 — — 180 163 — — 163 
Non-current financial assets at fair value261  202 463 163  148 311 
Current financial assets
Money market funds
432 — — 432 84 — — 84 
Current portion of long-term financial investments measured at FVPL
— — 1 — — 7 
Derivative financial instruments
— 12 — 12 — — 2 
Current financial assets at fair value432 12 1 445 84 2 7 93 
Financial assets at fair value693 12 203 908 247 2 155 404 
Financial liabilities
Contingent consideration liabilities
— — (96)(96)— — (90)(90)
Derivative financial instruments
— (4)— (4)— (10)— (10)
Financial liabilities at fair value (4)(96)(100) (10)(90)(100)
Long-term financial investments measured
at FVOCI
Financial investments
measured at FVPL
($ millions)2024202320242023
Balance as of January 1147 88 8 20 
Additions116 67 — 13 
Net gains/(losses) recognized in Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income90 (2)— — 
Net gains/(losses) recognized in Consolidated Income Statement— — (5)
Amortization— — (3)(5)
Transfer to Other non-current assets(132)— — — 
Settlements(20)(6)(5)(15)
Balance as of December 31201 147 2 8 
Disclosure of fair value measurement of liabilities
The below table summarizes financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023.
 
December 31, 2024
December 31, 2023
($ millions)Level 1Level 2Level 3TotalLevel 1Level 2Level 3Total
Non-current financial assets
Long-term financial investments measured at FVOCI
81 — 201 282 — — 147 147 
Long-term financial investments measured at FVPL
— — 1 — — 1 
Deferred compensation assets
180 — — 180 163 — — 163 
Non-current financial assets at fair value261  202 463 163  148 311 
Current financial assets
Money market funds
432 — — 432 84 — — 84 
Current portion of long-term financial investments measured at FVPL
— — 1 — — 7 
Derivative financial instruments
— 12 — 12 — — 2 
Current financial assets at fair value432 12 1 445 84 2 7 93 
Financial assets at fair value693 12 203 908 247 2 155 404 
Financial liabilities
Contingent consideration liabilities
— — (96)(96)— — (90)(90)
Derivative financial instruments
— (4)— (4)— (10)— (10)
Financial liabilities at fair value (4)(96)(100) (10)(90)(100)
Contingent consideration liabilities
($ millions)20242023
Balance as of January 1(90)(98)
Additions(6)— 
Accretion for passage of time(7)(9)
Adjustments for changes in assumptions17 
Balance as of December 31(96)(90)
Disclosure of net value of unsettled positions for derivative forward contracts and swaps
The below table summarizes the net value of unsettled positions for currency derivatives contracts including swaps, forwards and options as of December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023.
($ millions)December 31, 2024December 31, 2023
Unrealized gains in Other current assets12 
Unrealized losses in Current financial debts(4)(10)
Net value of unsettled positions for derivatives contracts8 (8)
v3.25.0.1
Provisions and other non-current liabilities (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Subclassifications of assets, liabilities and equities [abstract]  
Disclosure of provisions and other non-current liabilities
The below table provides details related to Provisions and other non-current liabilities as of December 31, 2024 and 2023.
($ millions)Note20242023
Accrued liability for employee benefits:
Defined benefit pension plans22198 221 
Other post-employment benefits22208 213 
Other long-term employee benefits and deferred compensation205 184 
Provisions for litigation and other legal matters— — 
Contingent consideration1796 90 
Deferred income86 32 
Other non-current liabilities32 44 
Total provisions and other non-current liabilities825 784 
Disclosure of details of non-current product liabilities and other legal matter provisions
($ millions)202420232022
January 16 206 53 
Additions to provisions15 175 
Cash payments(13)(201)(21)
Releases of provisions(4)(2)(1)
December 314 6 206 
Less current portion(4)(6)(206)
Non-current provisions for litigation and other legal matters at December 31   
v3.25.0.1
Provisions and other current liabilities (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Subclassifications of assets, liabilities and equities [abstract]  
Disclosure of provisions and other current liabilities
The below table provides details related to Provisions and other current liabilities as of December 31, 2024 and 2023.
($ millions)Note20242023
Accruals for compensation and benefits including social security531 550
Accruals for deductions from revenue396 394 
Deferred income73 78 
Taxes other than income taxes59 71 
Restructuring provisions— 29 
Accrued expenses for goods and services received but not invoiced65 86 
Accruals for royalties11 11 
Provisions for litigation and other legal matters18
Accrued equity-based payments11 13 
Accrued interest on financial debts32 32 
Other payables46 69 
Total provisions and other current liabilities1,228 1,339 
Disclosure of movement of accruals for deductions from revenue
The below table shows the movement of accruals for deductions from revenue.
($ millions)202420232022
January 1394 386 264 
Additions1,256 1,235 878 
Impact of business combinations— — 86 
Payments/utilizations(1,243)(1,218)(829)
Changes in offset against gross trade receivables(8)(3)
Currency translation effects(12)(1)(10)
December 31396 394 386 
Disclosure of movement of restructuring provisions
The below table shows the movement of restructuring provisions.
($ millions)202420232022
January 129 64 17 
Additions— 39 72 
Cash payments(27)(74)(24)
Releases(1)— (1)
Currency translation effects(1)— — 
December 31 29 64 
v3.25.0.1
Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows - additional details (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Cash Flow Statement [Abstract]  
Disclosure of detailed information about depreciation, amortization, impairments and fair value adjustments
($ millions)202420232022
Property, plant & equipment393 385 332 
Right-of-use assets83 91 76 
Intangible assets752 745 715 
Financial assets— (14)
Other non-current assets(2)(2)
Total1,226 1,226 1,111 
Disclosure of detailed information of change in net current assets and other operating cash flow items
($ millions)202420232022
(Increase) in inventories(47)(271)(217)
(Increase) in trade receivables(55)(110)(164)
(Decrease) in trade payables(15)(51)(48)
Net change in other operating assets(28)(23)(63)
Net change in other operating liabilities(44)51 (30)
Total(189)(404)(522)
Disclosure of reconciliation of assets and liabilities arising from financing activities
Financial Liabilities
($ millions)Non-current financial debtsCurrent financial debtsNon-current lease liabilitiesCurrent lease liabilities
January 1, 2024(1)
4,676 63 335 71 
Repayment of financial debts— (47)
Proceeds from financial debts, net of issuance costs— 59 
Additions to leases170 21 
Other net changes in financial debts— (66)
Amortization of discounts on financial debts— 
Payments of lease liabilities, net— (83)
Interest payments for amounts included in lease liabilities classified as cash flows from operating activities— (19)
Changes in fair values and other non-cash changes, net(6)(1)16 
Currency translation effects(39)(2)(10)(3)
Reclassification from non-current to current(104)104 (65)65 
December 31, 20244,538 105 429 68 
(1)     As described in Note 2, Alcon adopted Amendments to IAS 1, Presentation of Financial Statements, effective January 1, 2024, resulting in retrospective reclassification of financial debts of $82 million from current to non-current.
Financial Liabilities
($ millions)Non-current financial debtsCurrent financial debtsNon-current lease liabilitiesCurrent lease liabilities
January 1, 2023
4,541 107 359 71 
Repayment of financial debts— (34)
Proceeds from financial debts, net of issuance costs29 40 
Additions to leases48 15 
Other net changes in financial debts
— 37 
Amortization of discounts on financial debts— 
Payments of lease liabilities, net— (79)
Interest payments for amounts included in lease liabilities classified as cash flows from operating activities— (17)
Changes in fair values and other non-cash changes, net(1)(4)11 
Currency translation effects
19 (4)— 
Reclassification between non-current and current(1)
82 (82)(70)70 
December 31, 2023(1)
4,676 63 335 71 
(1)     As described in Note 2, Alcon adopted Amendments to IAS 1, Presentation of Financial Statements, effective January 1, 2024, resulting in retrospective reclassification of financial debts of $82 million from current to non-current.

Financial Liabilities
($ millions)Non-current financial debtsCurrent financial debtsNon-current lease liabilitiesCurrent lease liabilities
January 1, 20223,966 114 339 67 
Repayment of financial debts(1,176)(1,091)
Proceeds from financial debts, net of issuance costs1,815 771 
Impact from business combination— 316 22 
Additions to leases68 13 
Impact of asset acquisitions
Other net changes in financial debts— (42)
Amortization of discounts on financial debts— 
Payments of lease liabilities, net— (69)
Interest payments for amounts included in lease liabilities classified as cash flows from operating activities— (15)
Changes in fair values and other non-cash changes, net(2)13 
Currency translation effects(23)(16)(10)(4)
Reclassification from non-current to current(47)47 (60)60 
December 31, 20224,541 107 359 71 
Disclosure of non-cash investing and financing activities
($ millions)202420232022
Treasury stock issued for settlement of equity-based compensation plan, net of withholding taxes109 107 128 
Non-cash additions of right-of-use assets in exchange for a lease liability191 63 81 
Non-cash additions of property, plant & equipment53 55 62 
Non-cash additions of intangible assets13 16 105 
Non-cash additions of financial assets118 — — 
v3.25.0.1
Acquisitions, divestment of product rights and out-licensing (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Business Combinations, Asset Acquisitions and Disposals [Abstract]  
Purchase price allocation for business combinations
The below table summarizes the PPA for the BELKIN business combination which was finalized in the third quarter of 2024.
($ millions)
Final PPA
Property, plant and equipment
Currently marketed products75 
Deferred tax assets
Inventories
Cash and cash equivalents
Other current assets
Deferred tax liabilities(17)
Provisions and other current liabilities(1)
Net identifiable assets acquired72 
Goodwill20 
Total purchase consideration92 
Acquired liquidity(3)
Net assets recognized as a result of business combinations89 
Purchase consideration
Cash paid at closing64 
Cash expected to be paid after closing
Previously-held FVOCI financial investments20 
Contingent consideration
Total purchase consideration92 
The below table summarizes the final PPA for the Aerie business combination as of December 31, 2023.
($ millions)Preliminary PPAMeasurement period adjustmentsFinal PPA
Property, plant and equipment27 — 27 
Right-of-use assets29 — 29 
Currently marketed products850 — 850 
Acquired in-process research & development175 — 175 
Deferred tax assets189 — 189 
Inventories49 — 49 
Trade receivables70 — 70 
Short-term investments79 — 79 
Cash and cash equivalents78 — 78 
Other assets15 — 15 
Lease liabilities(27)— (27)
Deferred tax liabilities(255)— (255)
Provisions and other non-current and current liabilities(235)— (235)
Current income tax liabilities(46)44 (2)
Trade payables(3)— (3)
Financial debts(316)— (316)
Net identifiable assets acquired679 44 723 
Goodwill65 (44)21 
Total purchase consideration744  744 
Acquired liquidity(78)— (78)
Net assets recognized as a result of business combinations666  666 
Purchase price allocation for asset acquisitions
The below table summarizes the PPA for asset acquisitions for the year ended December 31, 2022.
($ millions)2022
Currently marketed products385 
Acquired in-process research & development10 
Other intangible assets (including software)12 
Deferred tax assets57 
Trade receivables10 
Inventory16 
Cash and cash equivalents
Other assets
Trade payables and other liabilities(11)
Net identifiable assets acquired489 
Acquired liquidity(4)
Net assets recognized as a result of asset acquisitions485 
v3.25.0.1
Post-employment benefits for associates (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Employee Benefits [Abstract]  
Summary of funded and unfunded defined benefit obligations and reconciliation of net liability
The below table summarizes the funded and unfunded DBO for pension and other post-employment benefit plans of Alcon associates at December 31, 2024 and 2023.
 Pension plansOther post-employment
benefit plans
($ millions)2024202320242023
Benefit obligation at January 1638 563 213 221 
Current service cost16 16 
Interest cost18 20 10 11 
Past service costs and settlements— (1)— — 
Administrative expenses— — 
Remeasurement (gains)/losses arising from changes in financial assumptions(14)46 (6)
Remeasurement (gains) arising from changes in demographic assumptions— (2)— — 
Remeasurement losses/(gains) arising from experience-related changes16 (16)
Currency translation effects(30)22 — — 
Benefit payments(47)(49)(19)(18)
Contributions of associates
Benefit obligation at December 31592 638 208 213 
Fair value of plan assets at January 1448 417   
Interest income11 14 — — 
Return on plan assets excluding interest income13 15 — — 
Currency translation effects(23)16 — — 
Employer contributions23 31 15 14 
Contributions of associates
Settlements— (1)— — 
Benefit payments(47)(49)(19)(18)
Fair value of plan assets at December 31430 448   
Funded status(162)(190)(208)(213)
Limitation on recognition of fund surplus at January 1(25)(21)
Change in limitation on recognition of fund surplus(8)(4)
Currency translation effects— 
Limitation on recognition of fund surplus at December 31(30)(25)
Net liability in the balance sheet at December 31(192)(215)(208)(213)
The reconciliation of the net liability from January 1 to December 31 is as follows:
 Pension plansOther post-employment benefit plans
($ millions)2024202320242023
Net liability at January 1(215)(167)(213)(221)
Current service cost(16)(16)(5)(5)
Net interest expense(7)(6)(10)(11)
Administrative expenses(1)(2)— — 
Remeasurements22 (45)10 
Currency translation effects10 (6)— — 
Employer contributions23 31 15 14 
Change in limitation on recognition of fund surplus(8)(4)— — 
Net liability at December 31(192)(215)(208)(213)
Amounts recognized in the balance sheet
Prepaid benefit cost— — 
Accrued benefit liability(198)(221)(208)(213)
Breakdown of DBO for pension plans by geography and type of member
The below tables provide detail of the DBO for pension plans by geography and type of member and of plan assets based on the geographical locations in which they are held.
2024
($ millions)SwitzerlandUnited
States
GermanyUnited
Kingdom
Rest of
the world
Total
By type of member
Active(226)(25)(42)— (75)(368)
Deferred pensioners(8)(29)(16)(26)(14)(93)
Pensioners(33)(38)(26)(27)(7)(131)
Benefit obligation at December 31(267)(92)(84)(53)(96)(592)
Thereof: unfunded plans43 21 — — 20 84 
Thereof: unfunded portion of funded plans43 63 — 114 
Prepaid benefit costs and assets subject to limitation on recognition of fund surplus— — — (4)(32)(36)
Fair value of plan assets at December 31181 70 21 57 101 430 
Funded status(86)(22)(63)4 5 (162)
 2023
($ millions)SwitzerlandUnited
States
GermanyUnited
Kingdom
Rest of
the world
Total
By type of member
Active(241)(31)(47)— (80)(399)
Deferred pensioners(8)(31)(19)(31)(15)(104)
Pensioners(33)(37)(27)(31)(7)(135)
Benefit obligation at December 31(282)(99)(93)(62)(102)(638)
Thereof: unfunded plans49 22 — — 17 88 
Thereof: unfunded portion of funded plans42 74 — 14 133 
Prepaid benefit costs and assets subject to limitation on recognition of fund surplus— — — (5)(26)(31)
Fair value of plan assets at December 31191 74 19 67 97 448 
Funded status(91)(25)(74)5 (5)(190)
Defined benefit plans assumptions
The below table shows the principal weighted average actuarial assumptions used for calculating defined benefit plans and other post-employment benefits of Alcon associates.
 Pension plansOther post-employment
benefit plans
 2024202320242023
Discount rate3.2 %3.0 %5.5 %5.0 %
Expected rate of pension increase1.0 %1.1 %
Expected rate of salary increase2.6 %2.7 %
Interest on savings account2.0 %2.2 %
Current average life expectancy for a 65-year-old male (in years)20202121
Current average life expectancy for a 65-year-old female (in years)22222323
The below table shows additional details related to the weighted average discount rates for pension and other post-employment benefit plans for each significant country.
 Pension plansOther post-employment
benefit plans
 2024202320242023
Switzerland1.6 %1.9 %
United States5.4 %5.0 %5.5 %5.0 %
Germany3.5 %3.1 %
United Kingdom5.5 %4.5 %
The below table summarizes the healthcare cost trend rate assumptions used for other post-employment benefits.
202420232022
Healthcare cost trend rate assumed for next year7.0 %6.0 %6.3 %
Rate to which the cost trend rate is assumed to decline4.5 %4.5 %4.5 %
Year that the rate reaches the ultimate trend rate203520302030
Disclosure of sensitivity analysis for actuarial assumptions
The below table shows the sensitivity of the defined benefit pension and other post-employment benefit obligations to the principal actuarial assumptions as of December 31, 2024.
($ millions)
(Decrease)/increase in 2024 year-end liability
25 basis point increase in discount rate
(23)
25 basis point decrease in discount rate
25 
1 year increase in life expectancy
12 
25 basis point increase in rate of pension increase
25 basis point decrease in rate of pension increase(1)
(4)
25 basis point increase of interest on savings account
25 basis point decrease of interest on savings account
(3)
25 basis point increase in rate of salary increase
25 basis point decrease in rate of salary increase
(3)
(1)Decrease in rate of pension increase is limited to zero.
Fair value of plan assets and asset allocation
The below table shows the weighted average plan asset allocation of funded defined benefit pension plans at December 31, 2024, and 2023.
Pension plans
(as a percentage)Long-term
target minimum
Long-term
target maximum
20242023
Equity securities15 40 33 33 
Debt securities20 60 40 41 
Real estate20 11 11 
Alternative investments— 20 13 13 
Cash and other investments— 15 
Total100 100 
Schedule of expected future cash flows for benefit plans
The below table summarizes expected employer contributions for one year and expected future benefit payments for ten years for pension and other post-employment benefit plans as of December 31, 2024.
($ millions)Pension plansOther
post-employment
benefit plans
Employer contributions
2025 (estimated)10 — 
Expected future benefit payments
202538 16 
202634 18 
202735 19 
202835 20 
202938 20 
2030-2034200 93 
v3.25.0.1
Equity-based compensation (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Share-Based Payment Arrangements [Abstract]  
Disclosure of number and weighted average exercise prices of other equity instruments
The below table summarizes unvested share movements for all Alcon equity-based incentive plans for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023.
 20242023
Number of
shares in
thousands
Weighted average
fair value at grant date in $
Fair value at grant date in $ millionsNumber of
shares in
thousands
Weighted average
fair value at grant date in $
Fair value at grant date in $ millions
Unvested shares at January 14,942 71.82355 4,793 69.16331 
Granted
Restricted awards1,560 80.95 126 1,627 72.30 118 
Performance awards771 77.99 60 698 72.06 50 
Vested(1,902)73.76 (140)(1,985)65.70 (130)
Forfeited(204)75.72 (15)(191)73.66 (14)
Unvested shares at December 315,167 74.63 386 4,942 71.82 355 
Summary of shares authorized
The below table summarizes the number of shares authorized under the plans as of December 31, 2024.
(thousands)Authorized shares
Long-term Incentive Plan20,000 
Deferred Bonus Stock Plan(1)
1,500 
Swiss Employee Share Ownership Plan475 
Other share savings plans275 
Total22,250 
(1)    No grants under the Deferred Bonus Stock Plan were made in 2024, 2023 or 2022.
v3.25.0.1
Related parties transactions (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Related Party [Abstract]  
Disclosure of transactions between related parties
The below table summarizes compensation information for key management personnel.
($ millions)202420232022
Cash and other compensation24.4 20.1 18.7 
Post-employment benefits2.9 1.1 0.9 
Equity-based compensation22.5 23.1 22.4 
Total49.8 44.3 42.0 
Disclosure of investments in associated companies The below table summarizes activity related to investments in associated companies for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023. There were no investments in associated companies in 2022.
Investments in associated companies
($ millions)20242023
Balance as of January 110  
Purchases159 10 
Transfer from Financial assets132 — 
Share of (loss) from associated companies recognized in Consolidated Income Statement(8)— 
Balance as of December 31293 10 
v3.25.0.1
Commitments and contingencies (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Other Provisions, Contingent Liabilities And Contingent Assets [Abstract]  
Summary of commitments to make payments under long-term research agreements As of December 31, 2024, the commitments to make payments under those agreements, and their estimated timing, were as follows:
($ millions)2024
202529 
202610 
2027
2028
2029— 
Thereafter69 
Total119 
v3.25.0.1
Alcon subsidiaries and associated companies (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Disclosure Of Separate Financial Statements [Abstract]  
Disclosure of details of subsidiaries
The following table lists the subsidiaries of Alcon Inc. with Total assets or Net sales in excess of $5 million included in the Consolidated Financial Statements at and for the year ended December 31, 2024, respectively. The equity interest percentage shown in the table represents Alcon's share in voting rights in those entities. Unless otherwise stated, each entity has share capital consisting of equity held directly by the Company or another of its consolidated subsidiaries.
Country of organization/Entity namePlace of businessEquity
interest
Argentina
Alcon Laboratorios Argentina S.A.Buenos Aires100 %
Australia
Alcon Laboratories (Australia) Pty LtdMacquarie Park100 %
Austria
Alcon Ophthalmika GmbHWien100 %
Belgium
Alcon Laboratories Belgium BVBAPuurs100 %
Alcon NVMechelen100 %
Brazil
Alcon Brasil Cuidados com a Saúde Ltda.São Paulo100 %
Canada
Alcon Canada Inc.Mississauga, Ontario100 %
Cayman Islands
Aerie Pharmaceuticals LimitedGrand Cayman100 %
Chile
Alcon Laboratorios Chile Ltd.Santiago de Chile100 %
China
Alcon (China) Ophthalmic Product Co., Ltd.Beijing 100 %
Alcon Hong Kong LimitedHong Kong100 %
Colombia
Laboratorios Alcon de Colombia S.A.Santafé de Bogotá100 %
Czech Republic
Alcon Pharmaceuticals (Czech Republic) s.r.o.Prague100 %
Denmark
Alcon Nordic A/SCopenhagen100 %
Ecuador
AlconLab Ecuador S.A.Quito100 %
France
Laboratoires Alcon S.A.S.Rueil-Malmaison100 %
Germany
Alcon Deutschland GmbHFreiburg im Breisgau100 %
CIBA Vision GmbHGrosswallstadt100 %
WaveLight GmbHErlangen100 %
Greece
Alcon Laboratories Hellas- Single Member Commercial and Industrial S.A.C.I.Maroussi, Athens100 %
Hungary
Alcon Hungary Pharmaceuticals Trading Limited Liability CompanyBudapest100 %
India
Alcon Laboratories (India) Private LimitedBangalore100 %
Indonesia
PT. CIBA Vision BatamBatam100 %
Ireland
Alcon Laboratories Ireland LimitedCork City100 %
Aerie Pharmaceuticals Ireland LimitedAthlone100 %
Israel
BELKIN Vision Ltd.Yavne100 %
Italy
Alcon Italia S.p.A.Milano100 %
Country of organization/Entity namePlace of businessEquity
interest
Japan
Alcon Japan Ltd.Tokyo100 %
Malaysia
Alcon Laboratories (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd.Petaling Jaya100 %
CIBA Vision Johor Sdn. Bhd.Johor100 %
Mexico
Alcon Laboratorios, S.A. de C.V.Ciudad de Mexico100 %
Netherlands
Alcon Finance B.V.Amsterdam100 %
Alcon Nederland B.V.Utrecht100 %
New Zealand
Alcon Laboratories (New Zealand) Ltd.Remuera100 %
Panama
Alcon Centroamerica S.A.Panama City100 %
Peru
Alcon Pharmaceutical del Peru S.A.Lima100 %
Philippines
Alcon Laboratories (Philippines), Inc.Pasig City100 %
Poland
Alcon Polska Sp. z o.o.Warszawa100 %
Portugal
Alcon Portugal-Produtos e Equipamentos Oftalmológicos Lda.Oeiras100 %
Puerto Rico
Alcon (Puerto Rico), Inc.Cataño, PR100 %
Romania
Alcon Romania S.R.L.Bucharest100 %
Russian Federation
Alcon Farmacevtika LLCMoscow100 %
Singapore
Alcon Pte LtdSingapore100 %
Alcon Singapore Manufacturing Pte LtdSingapore100 %
CIBA Vision Asian Manufacturing and Logistics Pte Ltd.Singapore100 %
South Africa
Alcon Laboratories (South Africa) (Pty) Ltd.Midrand100 %
South Korea
Alcon Korea Ltd.Seoul100 %
Spain
Alcon Healthcare S.A.Barcelona100 %
Switzerland
Alcon Grieshaber AGSchaffhausen100 %
Alcon Management SAVernier100 %
Alcon Pharmaceuticals Ltd.Fribourg100 %
Alcon Services AGFribourg100 %
Alcon Switzerland SAZug100 %
Thailand
Alcon Laboratories (Thailand) LimitedBangkok100 %
Turkey
Alcon Laboratuvarlari Ticaret A.S.Istanbul100 %
Ukraine
Alcon Ukraine LLCKiev100 %
United Kingdom
Alcon Eye Care UK LimitedFrimley/Camberley100 %
United States of America
Aerie Distribution, Inc.Fort Worth, TX100 %
Country of organization/Entity namePlace of businessEquity
interest
Aerie Pharmaceuticals, Inc.Fort Worth, TX100 %
Alcon Finance CorporationFort Worth, TX100 %
Alcon Laboratories, Inc.Fort Worth, TX100 %
Alcon RefractiveHorizons, LLC Fort Worth, TX100 %
Alcon Research, LLC Fort Worth, TX100 %
Alcon Vision, LLCFort Worth, TX100 %
CIBA Vision, LLCFort Worth, TX100 %
WaveLight, Inc.Fort Worth, TX100 %
Ivantis, Inc.Fort Worth, TX100 %
MDBackline, Inc.Fort Worth, TX100 %
PowerVision, Inc.Fort Worth, TX100 %
Tear Film Innovations, Inc.Fort Worth, TX100 %
TrueVision Systems, Inc.Fort Worth, TX100 %
Uruguay
Alcon Laboratorios Uruguay S.A.Montevideo100 %
v3.25.0.1
Description of business (Details)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2024
USD ($)
segment
Corporate information and statement of IFRS compliance [abstract]  
Number of reporting segments | segment 2
Total asset and net sales threshold | $ $ 5
v3.25.0.1
Selected accounting policies - Schedule of useful lives for property, plant, and equipment (Details)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Bottom of range | Buildings and improvements  
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]  
Useful life (in years) 10 years
Bottom of range | Machinery and equipment  
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]  
Useful life (in years) 5 years
Bottom of range | Furniture and vehicles  
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]  
Useful life (in years) 5 years
Bottom of range | Computer hardware  
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]  
Useful life (in years) 3 years
Top of range | Buildings and improvements  
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]  
Useful life (in years) 40 years
Top of range | Machinery and equipment  
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]  
Useful life (in years) 20 years
Top of range | Furniture and vehicles  
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]  
Useful life (in years) 10 years
Top of range | Computer hardware  
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]  
Useful life (in years) 7 years
v3.25.0.1
Selected accounting policies - Schedule of useful lives of intangible assets (Details)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Currently marketed products | Bottom of range  
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]  
Finite-lived intangible asset, useful life (in years) 5 years
Currently marketed products | Top of range  
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]  
Finite-lived intangible asset, useful life (in years) 20 years
Marketing know-how  
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]  
Finite-lived intangible asset, useful life (in years) 25 years
Technologies | Bottom of range  
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]  
Finite-lived intangible asset, useful life (in years) 10 years
Technologies | Top of range  
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]  
Finite-lived intangible asset, useful life (in years) 20 years
Other (including software) | Bottom of range  
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]  
Finite-lived intangible asset, useful life (in years) 3 years
Other (including software) | Top of range  
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]  
Finite-lived intangible asset, useful life (in years) 10 years
v3.25.0.1
Selected accounting policies - Additional information (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Disclosure of changes in accounting estimates [line items]    
Cash flow projection period (in years) 5 years  
Non-current financial debts $ 4,538 $ 4,676
Current financial debts $ 105 63
Cumulative Effect, Period of Adoption, Adjustment    
Disclosure of changes in accounting estimates [line items]    
Non-current financial debts   82
Current financial debts   $ (82)
v3.25.0.1
Significant transactions (Details)
$ / shares in Units, € in Millions
3 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Oct. 17, 2024
USD ($)
Jul. 01, 2024
USD ($)
Dec. 06, 2022
USD ($)
Nov. 21, 2022
USD ($)
$ / shares
Jul. 08, 2022
USD ($)
product
May 31, 2022
USD ($)
May 31, 2022
EUR (€)
Jan. 07, 2022
USD ($)
Dec. 31, 2024
USD ($)
Dec. 31, 2024
USD ($)
Dec. 31, 2023
USD ($)
Dec. 31, 2022
USD ($)
Dec. 31, 2024
EUR (€)
Sep. 30, 2024
USD ($)
Sep. 30, 2023
USD ($)
May 31, 2022
EUR (€)
May 30, 2022
USD ($)
Disclosure of detailed information about business combination [line items]                                  
Goodwill                 $ 8,946,000,000 $ 8,946,000,000 $ 8,926,000,000 $ 8,926,000,000          
Consideration paid for acquisition of businesses                   61,000,000 0 $ 666,000,000          
Borrowings                 $ 4,643,000,000 $ 4,643,000,000 4,739,000,000            
Eysuvis and Inveltys                                  
Disclosure of detailed information about business combination [line items]                                  
Acquisition of assets, number of products acquired | product         2                        
Acquisition of assets, upfront consideration         $ 60,000,000                        
Inventory, net of liabilities         14,000,000                        
Purchase consideration         79,000,000                        
Intangible assets         $ 71,000,000                        
Ivantis, Inc.                                  
Disclosure of detailed information about business combination [line items]                                  
Percentage of voting equity interests acquired (as a percent)               100.00%                  
Acquisition of assets, upfront consideration               $ 479,000,000                  
Series 2032 Notes                                  
Disclosure of detailed information about business combination [line items]                                  
Borrowings     $ 700,000,000                            
Borrowings, interest rate (as a percent)     5.375%           5.375% 5.375%     5.375%        
Series 2052 Notes                                  
Disclosure of detailed information about business combination [line items]                                  
Borrowings     $ 600,000,000                            
Borrowings, interest rate (as a percent)     5.75%           5.75% 5.75%     5.75%        
Facility B Term Loan                                  
Disclosure of detailed information about business combination [line items]                                  
Borrowings                                 $ 800,000,000
Repayments of non-current borrowings     $ 640,000,000     $ 160,000,000                      
Bridge Loan Facility                                  
Disclosure of detailed information about business combination [line items]                                  
Borrowings       $ 775,000,000                          
Repayments of non-current borrowings     $ 775,000,000                            
Series 2028 Notes                                  
Disclosure of detailed information about business combination [line items]                                  
Borrowings           $ 537,000,000     $ 521,000,000 $ 521,000,000     € 500     € 500  
Borrowings, interest rate (as a percent)           2.375%     2.375% 2.375%     2.375%     2.375%  
Facility C Term Loan                                  
Disclosure of detailed information about business combination [line items]                                  
Repayments of non-current borrowings           $ 376,000,000 € 350                    
BELKIN Vision Ltd.                                  
Disclosure of detailed information about business combination [line items]                                  
Percentage of voting equity interests acquired (as a percent)   100.00%                              
Goodwill   $ 20,000,000                       $ 20,000,000      
Consideration transferred   92,000,000                       92,000,000      
Previously-held FVOCI financial investments   20,000,000                       $ 20,000,000      
Consideration paid for acquisition of businesses   $ 61,000,000             $ 1,000,000                
Aerie Pharmaceuticals, Inc.                                  
Disclosure of detailed information about business combination [line items]                                  
Percentage of voting equity interests acquired (as a percent)       100.00%                          
Goodwill       $ 65,000,000             21,000,000       $ 21,000,000    
Consideration transferred       744,000,000             744,000,000            
Consideration paid for acquisition of businesses       $ 666,000,000                          
Price paid (in dollars per share) | $ / shares       $ 15.25                          
Borrowings recognised as of acquisition date       $ 316,200,000             $ 316,000,000            
China divestment of product rights and out-licensing                                  
Disclosure of detailed information about business combination [line items]                                  
Divestment, value of ordinary shares received $ 116,000,000                                
Divestment, percentage of ordinary shares received 16.70%                                
v3.25.0.1
Segment information - Additional information (Details)
Dec. 31, 2024
segment
Operating Segments [Abstract]  
Number of reporting segments 2
v3.25.0.1
Segment information - Net sales and other revenues by segment (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]      
Net sales $ 9,836 $ 9,370 $ 8,654
Total other revenues 75 85 63
Net sales and other revenues 9,911 9,455 8,717
Operating segments      
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]      
Net sales 9,836 9,370 8,654
Total other revenues   85 63
Surgical | Operating segments      
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]      
Net sales 5,522 5,314 5,045
Total other revenues 4 0 0
Surgical | Implantables | Operating segments      
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]      
Net sales 1,775 1,703 1,725
Surgical | Consumables | Operating segments      
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]      
Net sales 2,861 2,719 2,499
Surgical | Equipment/other | Operating segments      
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]      
Net sales 886 892 821
Vision Care | Operating segments      
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]      
Net sales 4,314 4,056 3,609
Total other revenues 71 85 63
Vision Care | Contact lenses | Operating segments      
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]      
Net sales 2,609 2,400 2,192
Vision Care | Ocular health | Operating segments      
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]      
Net sales $ 1,705 $ 1,656 $ 1,417
v3.25.0.1
Segment information - Segment contribution and reconciliation to income before taxes (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]      
Net sales $ 9,836 $ 9,370 $ 8,654
Other revenues 75 85 63
Cost of net sales (4,328) (4,141) (3,910)
Cost of other revenues (71) (67) (59)
Selling, general & administration (3,250) (3,209) (3,068)
Research & development (876) (828) (702)
Other income 77 80 36
Other expense (50) (251) (342)
Operating income 1,413 1,039 672
Interest expense (192) (189) (134)
Other financial income & expense 43 (18) (75)
Share of (loss) from associated companies (8) 0 0
Income before taxes 1,256 832 463
Total depreciation of property, plant & equipment (392) (385) (330)
Total depreciation of right-of-use assets (83) (91) (76)
Total impairment charges on property, plant & equipment, net (1) 0 (2)
Total equity-based compensation (162) (159) (152)
Operating segments      
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]      
Net sales 9,836 9,370 8,654
Other revenues   85 63
Operating segments | Surgical      
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]      
Net sales 5,522 5,314 5,045
Other revenues 4 0 0
Cost of net sales (2,014) (1,898) (1,835)
Cost of other revenues (4) 0 0
Selling, general & administration (1,461) (1,435) (1,388)
Research & development (580) (527) (486)
Other income 0 0 0
Other expense 0 0 0
Operating income 1,467 1,454 1,336
Total depreciation of property, plant & equipment (147) (144) (131)
Total depreciation of right-of-use assets (50) (49) (46)
Total impairment charges on property, plant & equipment, net (1) 0 (2)
Total equity-based compensation (81) (78) (74)
Operating segments | Vision Care      
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]      
Net sales 4,314 4,056 3,609
Other revenues 71 85 63
Cost of net sales (1,605) (1,535) (1,410)
Cost of other revenues (67) (67) (59)
Selling, general & administration (1,467) (1,473) (1,391)
Research & development (284) (289) (212)
Other income 0 0 0
Other expense 0 0 0
Operating income 962 777 600
Total depreciation of property, plant & equipment (241) (237) (198)
Total depreciation of right-of-use assets (33) (42) (30)
Total equity-based compensation (58) (64) (61)
Not allocated to segments      
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]      
Net sales 0 0 0
Other revenues 0 0 0
Cost of net sales (709) (708) (665)
Cost of other revenues 0 0 0
Selling, general & administration (322) (301) (289)
Research & development (12) (12) (4)
Other income 77 80 36
Other expense (50) (251) (342)
Operating income (1,016) (1,192) (1,264)
Interest expense (192) (189) (134)
Other financial income & expense 43 (18) (75)
Share of (loss) from associated companies (8) 0 0
Total depreciation of property, plant & equipment (4) (4) (1)
Total equity-based compensation $ (23) $ (17) $ (17)
v3.25.0.1
Segment information - Net sales and selected non-current assets by region (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]      
Net sales $ 9,836 $ 9,370 $ 8,654
Percentage of entity's revenue (as a percent) 100.00% 100.00% 100.00%
Total of selected non-current assets $ 22,371 $ 22,709  
Percentage of entity's non-current assets (as a percent) 100.00% 100.00%  
United States      
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]      
Net sales $ 4,511 $ 4,312 $ 3,897
Percentage of entity's revenue (as a percent) 46.00% 46.00% 45.00%
Total of selected non-current assets $ 11,380 $ 11,490  
Percentage of entity's non-current assets (as a percent) 51.00% 51.00%  
International      
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]      
Net sales $ 5,325 $ 5,058 $ 4,757
Percentage of entity's revenue (as a percent) 54.00% 54.00% 55.00%
Total of selected non-current assets $ 10,991 $ 11,219  
Percentage of entity's non-current assets (as a percent) 49.00% 49.00%  
Switzerland      
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]      
Net sales $ 79 $ 64 $ 59
Percentage of entity's revenue (as a percent) 1.00% 1.00% 1.00%
Total of selected non-current assets $ 8,800 $ 9,137  
Percentage of entity's non-current assets (as a percent) 39.00% 40.00%  
Japan      
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]      
Net sales $ 554 $ 583 $ 568
Percentage of entity's revenue (as a percent) 6.00% 6.00% 7.00%
Total of selected non-current assets $ 28 $ 34  
Percentage of entity's non-current assets (as a percent) 0.00% 0.00%  
China      
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]      
Net sales $ 560 $ 526 $ 474
Percentage of entity's revenue (as a percent) 6.00% 6.00% 5.00%
Total of selected non-current assets $ 21 $ 10  
Percentage of entity's non-current assets (as a percent) 0.00% 0.00%  
Other      
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]      
Net sales $ 4,132 $ 3,885 $ 3,656
Percentage of entity's revenue (as a percent) 42.00% 41.00% 42.00%
Total of selected non-current assets $ 2,142 $ 2,038  
Percentage of entity's non-current assets (as a percent) 10.00% 9.00%  
v3.25.0.1
Interest expense and other financial income & expense - Interest expense (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Analysis of income and expense [abstract]      
Interest expense on financial debts $ (165) $ (162) $ (110)
Interest expense from discounting long-term liabilities (8) (10) (9)
Interest expense on lease liabilities (19) (17) (15)
Total interest expense $ (192) $ (189) $ (134)
v3.25.0.1
Interest expense and other financial income & expense - Other financial income & expense (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Analysis of income and expense [abstract]      
Interest income $ 84 $ 45 $ 16
Loss on extinguishment of financial debt 0 0 (5)
Other financial expense (12) (11) (12)
Monetary gain/(loss) from hyperinflation accounting 1 (13) (16)
Currency result, net (30) (39) (58)
Total other financial income & expense $ 43 $ (18) $ (75)
v3.25.0.1
Taxes - Income before taxes (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Disclosure of temporary difference, unused tax losses and unused tax credits [line items]      
Total income before taxes $ 1,256 $ 832 $ 463
Switzerland      
Disclosure of temporary difference, unused tax losses and unused tax credits [line items]      
Total income before taxes 493 359 234
Foreign      
Disclosure of temporary difference, unused tax losses and unused tax credits [line items]      
Total income before taxes $ 763 $ 473 $ 229
v3.25.0.1
Taxes - Current and deferred income taxes (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Disclosure of temporary difference, unused tax losses and unused tax credits [line items]      
Current income tax (expense) $ (334) $ (167) $ (163)
Deferred tax income 96 309 35
Total income tax (expense)/income (238) 142 (128)
Switzerland      
Disclosure of temporary difference, unused tax losses and unused tax credits [line items]      
Current income tax (expense) (95) (74) (17)
Deferred tax income 25 313 53
Foreign      
Disclosure of temporary difference, unused tax losses and unused tax credits [line items]      
Current income tax (expense) (239) (93) (146)
Deferred tax income $ 71 $ (4) $ (18)
v3.25.0.1
Taxes - Analysis of tax rate (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Reconciliation of accounting profit multiplied by applicable tax rates [abstract]      
Applicable tax rate $ (256) $ (168) $ (104)
Effect of disallowed expenditures (4) (7) (13)
Effect of deemed legal entity liquidation 57 0 0
Effect of equity-based compensation (2) (3) (13)
Effect of tax credits and allowances 18 12 11
Effect of deductibility of a statutory expense in Switzerland 0 568 23
Effect of adjustments to contingent consideration and other liabilities 0 2 3
Effect of changes in uncertain tax positions (43) (271) 10
Effect of previously unrecognized tax loss carryforward 12 11 0
Effect of 2022 APA on prior years 0 6 (37)
Effect of non-deductible amortization (9) (8) (7)
Effect of other items (10) (6) 2
Effect of prior year items (1) 6 (3)
Total income tax (expense)/income $ (238) $ 142 $ (128)
Reconciliation of average effective tax rate and applicable tax rate [abstract]      
Applicable tax rate 20.40% 20.20% 22.50%
Effect of disallowed expenditures 0.30% 0.80% 2.80%
Effect of deemed legal entity liquidation (4.50%) 0.00% 0.00%
Effect of equity-based compensation 0.20% 0.40% 2.80%
Effect of tax credits and allowances (1.40%) (1.40%) (2.40%)
Effect of deductibility of a statutory expense in Switzerland 0.00% (68.30%) (5.00%)
Effect of adjustments to contingent consideration and other liabilities 0.00% (0.20%) (0.60%)
Effect of changes in uncertain tax positions 3.40% 32.60% (2.20%)
Effect of previously unrecognized tax loss carryforward (1.00%) (1.30%) 0.00%
Effect of 2022 APA on prior years 0.00% (0.70%) 8.00%
Effect of non-deductible amortization 0.70% 1.00% 1.50%
Effect of other items 0.80% 0.70% (0.40%)
Effect of prior year items 0.10% (0.70%) 0.60%
Effective tax rate 18.90% (17.10%) 27.60%
v3.25.0.1
Taxes - Additional information (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Income Taxes [Abstract]      
Applicable tax rate (as a percent) 20.40% 20.20% 22.50%
Average effective tax rate (as a percent) 18.90% (17.10%) 27.60%
Discrete tax benefit - deferred   $ 263  
Discrete tax benefit - current   36  
Effect of 2022 APA on prior years $ 0 $ (6) $ 37
Effect of 2022 APA on current year     $ 64
v3.25.0.1
Share capital, dividends and earnings per share - Additional information (Details)
SFr / shares in Units, shares in Millions, SFr in Millions, $ in Millions
1 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
May 05, 2023
CHF (SFr)
shares
May 31, 2024
USD ($)
May 31, 2024
SFr / shares
May 31, 2023
USD ($)
May 31, 2023
SFr / shares
May 31, 2022
USD ($)
May 31, 2022
SFr / shares
Dec. 31, 2024
USD ($)
shares
Dec. 31, 2023
USD ($)
shares
Dec. 31, 2022
shares
Dec. 31, 2024
CHF (SFr)
SFr / shares
shares
Dec. 31, 2021
shares
Disclosure of classes of share capital [line items]                        
Share capital               $ 20 $ 20   SFr 20.0  
Number of shares issued (in shares)               499.7     499.7  
Nominal value (in CHF per share) | SFr / shares                     SFr 0.04  
Effect on authorized capital, potential issuance of shares (in shares) 50.0                      
Share capital at the time of increase (as a percent) 10.00%                      
Number of potential shares cancelled (in shares) 25.0                      
Share capital, potential increase | SFr SFr 2.0                      
Share capital, potential increase (in shares) 50.0                      
Dividends (in CHF per share) | SFr / shares     SFr 0.24   SFr 0.21   SFr 0.20          
Dividends | $   $ 130   $ 116   $ 100            
Basic weighted average shares outstanding (in shares)               494.4 493.0 491.4    
Diluted weighted average shares outstanding (in shares)               497.5 496.5 494.4    
Diluted weighted average shares adjustment (in shares)               3.1 3.5 3.0    
Minimum                        
Disclosure of classes of share capital [line items]                        
Authorized capital | SFr SFr 19.0                      
Maximum                        
Disclosure of classes of share capital [line items]                        
Authorized capital | SFr SFr 22.0                      
Treasury stock shares                        
Disclosure of classes of share capital [line items]                        
Treasury stock (in shares)               5.1 6.4 7.9 5.1 9.6
v3.25.0.1
Share capital, dividends and earnings per share - Share activity (Details) - shares
shares in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Treasury stock shares      
Balance (in shares) 499.7 499.7 499.7
Balance (in shares) 499.7 499.7 499.7
Common stock shares outstanding      
Common stock shares outstanding      
Number of shares outstanding (in shares) 493.2 491.8 490.1
Settlement of equity-based awards (in shares) 1.4 1.5 1.7
Number of shares outstanding (in shares) 494.6 493.2 491.8
Treasury stock shares      
Treasury stock shares      
Treasury stock, balance (in shares) 6.4 7.9 9.6
Settlement of equity-based awards (in shares) (1.4) (1.5) (1.7)
Treasury stock, balance (in shares) 5.1 6.4 7.9
v3.25.0.1
Property, plant & equipment (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Reconciliation of changes in property, plant and equipment [abstract]      
Property, plant and equipment, beginning balance $ 4,369    
Depreciation charge (392) $ (385) $ (330)
Impairment charges (1) 0 (2)
Property, plant and equipment, ending balance 4,389 4,369  
Commitments for purchases of property, plant and equipment 221 283  
Cost      
Reconciliation of changes in property, plant and equipment [abstract]      
Property, plant and equipment, beginning balance 7,344 6,775  
Additions 518 703  
Impact of business combinations 1    
Disposals and derecognitions (131) (212)  
Reclassifications for assets placed in service 0 0  
Currency translation effects (144) 78  
Property, plant and equipment, ending balance 7,588 7,344 6,775
Accumulated depreciation      
Reconciliation of changes in property, plant and equipment [abstract]      
Property, plant and equipment, beginning balance (2,975) (2,750)  
Depreciation charge (392) (385)  
Impairment charges (1)    
Disposals and derecognitions 115 186  
Currency translation effects 54 (26)  
Property, plant and equipment, ending balance (3,199) (2,975) (2,750)
Land      
Reconciliation of changes in property, plant and equipment [abstract]      
Property, plant and equipment, beginning balance 38    
Property, plant and equipment, ending balance 39 38  
Land | Cost      
Reconciliation of changes in property, plant and equipment [abstract]      
Property, plant and equipment, beginning balance 38 35  
Additions 2 2  
Impact of business combinations 0    
Disposals and derecognitions 0 0  
Reclassifications for assets placed in service 0 0  
Currency translation effects (1) 1  
Property, plant and equipment, ending balance 39 38 35
Land | Accumulated depreciation      
Reconciliation of changes in property, plant and equipment [abstract]      
Property, plant and equipment, beginning balance 0 0  
Depreciation charge 0 0  
Impairment charges 0    
Disposals and derecognitions 0 0  
Currency translation effects 0 0  
Property, plant and equipment, ending balance 0 0 0
Buildings & improvements      
Reconciliation of changes in property, plant and equipment [abstract]      
Property, plant and equipment, beginning balance 1,342    
Property, plant and equipment, ending balance 1,310 1,342  
Buildings & improvements | Cost      
Reconciliation of changes in property, plant and equipment [abstract]      
Property, plant and equipment, beginning balance 2,294 2,091  
Additions 20 98  
Impact of business combinations 0    
Disposals and derecognitions (20) (28)  
Reclassifications for assets placed in service 87 109  
Currency translation effects (42) 24  
Property, plant and equipment, ending balance 2,339 2,294 2,091
Buildings & improvements | Accumulated depreciation      
Reconciliation of changes in property, plant and equipment [abstract]      
Property, plant and equipment, beginning balance (952) (870)  
Depreciation charge (111) (100)  
Impairment charges 0    
Disposals and derecognitions 16 28  
Currency translation effects 18 (10)  
Property, plant and equipment, ending balance (1,029) (952) (870)
Construction in progress      
Reconciliation of changes in property, plant and equipment [abstract]      
Property, plant and equipment, beginning balance 1,021    
Property, plant and equipment, ending balance 939 1,021  
Construction in progress | Cost      
Reconciliation of changes in property, plant and equipment [abstract]      
Property, plant and equipment, beginning balance 1,023 955  
Additions 368 474  
Impact of business combinations 0    
Disposals and derecognitions (4) (7)  
Reclassifications for assets placed in service (421) (412)  
Currency translation effects (26) 13  
Property, plant and equipment, ending balance 940 1,023 955
Construction in progress | Accumulated depreciation      
Reconciliation of changes in property, plant and equipment [abstract]      
Property, plant and equipment, beginning balance (2) (2)  
Depreciation charge 0 0  
Impairment charges 0    
Disposals and derecognitions 0 0  
Currency translation effects 1 0  
Property, plant and equipment, ending balance (1) (2) (2)
Machinery & other equipment      
Reconciliation of changes in property, plant and equipment [abstract]      
Property, plant and equipment, beginning balance 1,968    
Property, plant and equipment, ending balance 2,101 1,968  
Machinery & other equipment | Cost      
Reconciliation of changes in property, plant and equipment [abstract]      
Property, plant and equipment, beginning balance 3,989 3,694  
Additions 128 129  
Impact of business combinations 1    
Disposals and derecognitions (107) (177)  
Reclassifications for assets placed in service 334 303  
Currency translation effects (75) 40  
Property, plant and equipment, ending balance 4,270 3,989 3,694
Machinery & other equipment | Accumulated depreciation      
Reconciliation of changes in property, plant and equipment [abstract]      
Property, plant and equipment, beginning balance (2,021) (1,878)  
Depreciation charge (281) (285)  
Impairment charges (1)    
Disposals and derecognitions 99 158  
Currency translation effects 35 (16)  
Property, plant and equipment, ending balance $ (2,169) $ (2,021) $ (1,878)
v3.25.0.1
Goodwill and other intangible assets - Summary of movements of goodwill and intangible assets (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
3 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Jun. 30, 2022
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Reconciliation of changes in intangible assets and goodwill [abstract]        
Intangible assets and goodwill at beginning of period   $ 9,060    
Impairment charges $ (61) (9) $ 0 $ (62)
Intangible assets and goodwill at end of period   8,587 9,060  
Cost        
Reconciliation of changes in intangible assets and goodwill [abstract]        
Intangible assets and goodwill at beginning of period   22,241 22,138  
Impact of business combinations   75    
Impact of asset acquisitions     2  
Additions   207 115  
Disposals and derecognitions   (147) (14)  
Intangible assets and goodwill at end of period   22,376 22,241 22,138
Accumulated amortization        
Reconciliation of changes in intangible assets and goodwill [abstract]        
Intangible assets and goodwill at beginning of period   (13,181) (12,449)  
Amortization charge   (743) (745)  
Disposals and derecognitions   144 13  
Impairment charges   (9)    
Intangible assets and goodwill at end of period   (13,789) (13,181) (12,449)
Goodwill        
Reconciliation of changes in intangible assets and goodwill [abstract]        
Intangible assets and goodwill at beginning of period   8,926    
Intangible assets and goodwill at end of period   8,946 8,926  
Goodwill | Cost        
Reconciliation of changes in intangible assets and goodwill [abstract]        
Intangible assets and goodwill at beginning of period   8,926 8,926  
Impact of business combinations   20    
Intangible assets and goodwill at end of period   8,946 8,926 8,926
Goodwill | Accumulated amortization        
Reconciliation of changes in intangible assets and goodwill [abstract]        
Intangible assets and goodwill at beginning of period   0 0  
Intangible assets and goodwill at end of period   0 0 0
Alcon brand name        
Reconciliation of changes in intangible assets and goodwill [abstract]        
Intangible assets and goodwill at beginning of period   2,980    
Intangible assets and goodwill at end of period   2,980 2,980  
Alcon brand name | Cost        
Reconciliation of changes in intangible assets and goodwill [abstract]        
Intangible assets and goodwill at beginning of period   2,980 2,980  
Intangible assets and goodwill at end of period   2,980 2,980 2,980
Alcon brand name | Accumulated amortization        
Reconciliation of changes in intangible assets and goodwill [abstract]        
Intangible assets and goodwill at beginning of period   0 0  
Intangible assets and goodwill at end of period   0 0 0
Acquired in-process research & development        
Reconciliation of changes in intangible assets and goodwill [abstract]        
Intangible assets and goodwill at beginning of period   739    
Intangible assets and goodwill at end of period   775 739  
Acquired in-process research & development | Cost        
Reconciliation of changes in intangible assets and goodwill [abstract]        
Intangible assets and goodwill at beginning of period   918 920  
Additions   45    
Disposals and derecognitions     (2)  
Intangible assets and goodwill at end of period   963 918 920
Acquired in-process research & development | Accumulated amortization        
Reconciliation of changes in intangible assets and goodwill [abstract]        
Intangible assets and goodwill at beginning of period   (179) (181)  
Disposals and derecognitions     2  
Impairment charges   (9)    
Intangible assets and goodwill at end of period   (188) (179) (181)
Technologies        
Reconciliation of changes in intangible assets and goodwill [abstract]        
Intangible assets and goodwill at beginning of period   60    
Intangible assets and goodwill at end of period   28 60  
Technologies | Cost        
Reconciliation of changes in intangible assets and goodwill [abstract]        
Intangible assets and goodwill at beginning of period   5,369 5,369  
Disposals and derecognitions   (21)    
Intangible assets and goodwill at end of period   5,348 5,369 5,369
Technologies | Accumulated amortization        
Reconciliation of changes in intangible assets and goodwill [abstract]        
Intangible assets and goodwill at beginning of period   (5,309) (5,278)  
Amortization charge   (32) (31)  
Disposals and derecognitions   21    
Intangible assets and goodwill at end of period   (5,320) (5,309) (5,278)
Currently marketed products        
Reconciliation of changes in intangible assets and goodwill [abstract]        
Intangible assets and goodwill at beginning of period   2,018    
Intangible assets and goodwill at end of period   1,744 2,018  
Currently marketed products | Cost        
Reconciliation of changes in intangible assets and goodwill [abstract]        
Intangible assets and goodwill at beginning of period   6,204 6,189  
Impact of business combinations   75    
Additions   32 19  
Disposals and derecognitions   (82) (4)  
Intangible assets and goodwill at end of period   6,229 6,204 6,189
Currently marketed products | Accumulated amortization        
Reconciliation of changes in intangible assets and goodwill [abstract]        
Intangible assets and goodwill at beginning of period   (4,186) (3,809)  
Amortization charge   (378) (381)  
Disposals and derecognitions   79 4  
Intangible assets and goodwill at end of period   (4,485) (4,186) (3,809)
Marketing know-how        
Reconciliation of changes in intangible assets and goodwill [abstract]        
Intangible assets and goodwill at beginning of period   2,861    
Intangible assets and goodwill at end of period   2,622 2,861  
Marketing know-how | Cost        
Reconciliation of changes in intangible assets and goodwill [abstract]        
Intangible assets and goodwill at beginning of period   5,960 5,960  
Intangible assets and goodwill at end of period   5,960 5,960 5,960
Marketing know-how | Accumulated amortization        
Reconciliation of changes in intangible assets and goodwill [abstract]        
Intangible assets and goodwill at beginning of period   (3,099) (2,861)  
Amortization charge   (239) (238)  
Intangible assets and goodwill at end of period   (3,338) (3,099) (2,861)
Other intangible assets (including software)        
Reconciliation of changes in intangible assets and goodwill [abstract]        
Intangible assets and goodwill at beginning of period   402    
Intangible assets and goodwill at end of period   438 402  
Other intangible assets (including software) | Cost        
Reconciliation of changes in intangible assets and goodwill [abstract]        
Intangible assets and goodwill at beginning of period   810 720  
Impact of asset acquisitions     2  
Additions   130 96  
Disposals and derecognitions   (44) (8)  
Intangible assets and goodwill at end of period   896 810 720
Other intangible assets (including software) | Accumulated amortization        
Reconciliation of changes in intangible assets and goodwill [abstract]        
Intangible assets and goodwill at beginning of period   (408) (320)  
Amortization charge   (94) (95)  
Disposals and derecognitions   44 7  
Intangible assets and goodwill at end of period   $ (458) $ (408) $ (320)
v3.25.0.1
Goodwill and other intangible assets - Goodwill and intangible asset by segment (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]    
Intangible assets and goodwill $ 8,587 $ 9,060
Goodwill    
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]    
Intangible assets and goodwill 8,946 8,926
Alcon brand name    
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]    
Intangible assets and goodwill 2,980 2,980
Acquired in-process research & development    
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]    
Intangible assets and goodwill 775 739
Technologies    
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]    
Intangible assets and goodwill 28 60
Currently marketed products    
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]    
Intangible assets and goodwill 1,744 2,018
Marketing know-how    
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]    
Intangible assets and goodwill 2,622 2,861
Other (including software)    
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]    
Intangible assets and goodwill 438 402
Operating segments | Surgical    
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]    
Intangible assets and goodwill 4,064 4,260
Operating segments | Surgical | Goodwill    
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]    
Intangible assets and goodwill 4,564 4,544
Operating segments | Surgical | Acquired in-process research & development    
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]    
Intangible assets and goodwill 562 564
Operating segments | Surgical | Technologies    
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]    
Intangible assets and goodwill 28 60
Operating segments | Surgical | Currently marketed products    
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]    
Intangible assets and goodwill 581 534
Operating segments | Surgical | Marketing know-how    
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]    
Intangible assets and goodwill 2,622 2,861
Operating segments | Surgical | Other (including software)    
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]    
Intangible assets and goodwill 271 241
Operating segments | Vision Care    
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]    
Intangible assets and goodwill 1,543 1,820
Operating segments | Vision Care | Goodwill    
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]    
Intangible assets and goodwill 4,382 4,382
Operating segments | Vision Care | Acquired in-process research & development    
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]    
Intangible assets and goodwill 213 175
Operating segments | Vision Care | Currently marketed products    
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]    
Intangible assets and goodwill 1,163 1,484
Operating segments | Vision Care | Other (including software)    
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]    
Intangible assets and goodwill 167 161
Not allocated to segments    
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]    
Intangible assets and goodwill 2,980 2,980
Not allocated to segments | Alcon brand name    
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]    
Intangible assets and goodwill $ 2,980 $ 2,980
v3.25.0.1
Goodwill and other intangible assets - Intangible asset assumptions (Details)
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Surgical    
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]    
Terminal growth rate 3.00% 3.00%
Discount rate (post-tax) 8.50% 9.00%
Vision Care    
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]    
Terminal growth rate 3.00% 3.00%
Discount rate (post-tax) 8.00% 8.75%
v3.25.0.1
Goodwill and other intangible assets - Additional information (Details)
$ in Millions
3 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Jun. 30, 2022
USD ($)
Dec. 31, 2024
USD ($)
Dec. 31, 2023
USD ($)
Dec. 31, 2022
USD ($)
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]        
Impairment charges $ 61 $ 9 $ 0 $ 62
Cash flow projection forecast duration (in years)   5 years    
Discount rate, measurement input        
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]        
Significant unobservable input, assets (as a percent) 0.078      
Surgical        
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]        
Terminal growth rate   3.00% 3.00%  
Impairment charges   $ 9 $ 0 60
Recoverable amount $ 15      
Surgical | Cost of net sales        
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]        
Impairment charges 59      
Vision Care        
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]        
Terminal growth rate   3.00% 3.00%  
Impairment charges   $ 0 $ 0 $ 2
Vision Care | Research and development        
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]        
Impairment charges $ 2      
v3.25.0.1
Goodwill and other intangible assets - Intangible asset impairment charges (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
3 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Jun. 30, 2022
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]        
Impairment charges $ 61 $ 9 $ 0 $ 62
Surgical        
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]        
Impairment charges   9 0 60
Vision Care        
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]        
Impairment charges   $ 0 $ 0 $ 2
v3.25.0.1
Deferred tax assets and liabilities - Activity in deferred tax asset (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Reconciliation of changes in deferred tax liability (asset) [abstract]    
Gross deferred tax assets, beginning balance $ 1,580 $ 1,339
Gross, deferred tax liabilities, beginning balance (1,934) (1,992)
Net, deferred tax asset (liabilities), beginning balance (354) (653)
(Charged)/credited to income 96 309
Credited/(charged) to equity 7 (12)
Credited/(charged) to other comprehensive income (41) 2
Impact of business combinations (11)  
Gross deferred tax assets, ending balance 1,558 1,580
Gross, deferred tax liabilities, ending balance (1,861) (1,934)
Net, deferred tax asset (liabilities), ending balance (303) (354)
Property, plant & equipment    
Reconciliation of changes in deferred tax liability (asset) [abstract]    
Gross deferred tax assets, beginning balance 39 31
Gross, deferred tax liabilities, beginning balance (337) (307)
Net, deferred tax asset (liabilities), beginning balance (298) (276)
(Charged)/credited to income (1) (22)
Credited/(charged) to equity 0 0
Credited/(charged) to other comprehensive income 1 0
Impact of business combinations 0  
Gross deferred tax assets, ending balance 34 39
Gross, deferred tax liabilities, ending balance (332) (337)
Net, deferred tax asset (liabilities), ending balance (298) (298)
Intangible assets and deductible goodwill    
Reconciliation of changes in deferred tax liability (asset) [abstract]    
Gross deferred tax assets, beginning balance 267 4
Gross, deferred tax liabilities, beginning balance (1,417) (1,529)
Net, deferred tax asset (liabilities), beginning balance (1,150) (1,525)
(Charged)/credited to income 95 375
Credited/(charged) to equity 0 0
Credited/(charged) to other comprehensive income 0 0
Impact of business combinations (17)  
Gross deferred tax assets, ending balance 246 267
Gross, deferred tax liabilities, ending balance (1,318) (1,417)
Net, deferred tax asset (liabilities), ending balance (1,072) (1,150)
Pensions and other benefit obligations of associates    
Reconciliation of changes in deferred tax liability (asset) [abstract]    
Gross deferred tax assets, beginning balance 85 79
Gross, deferred tax liabilities, beginning balance 0 0
Net, deferred tax asset (liabilities), beginning balance 85 79
(Charged)/credited to income 2 0
Credited/(charged) to equity 0 0
Credited/(charged) to other comprehensive income (7) 6
Impact of business combinations 0  
Gross deferred tax assets, ending balance 80 85
Gross, deferred tax liabilities, ending balance 0 0
Net, deferred tax asset (liabilities), ending balance 80 85
Inventories    
Reconciliation of changes in deferred tax liability (asset) [abstract]    
Gross deferred tax assets, beginning balance 377 352
Gross, deferred tax liabilities, beginning balance (30) (26)
Net, deferred tax asset (liabilities), beginning balance 347 326
(Charged)/credited to income 11 21
Credited/(charged) to equity 0 0
Credited/(charged) to other comprehensive income (7) 0
Impact of business combinations 0  
Gross deferred tax assets, ending balance 384 377
Gross, deferred tax liabilities, ending balance (33) (30)
Net, deferred tax asset (liabilities), ending balance 351 347
Tax loss carry-forwards    
Reconciliation of changes in deferred tax liability (asset) [abstract]    
Gross deferred tax assets, beginning balance 194 231
Gross, deferred tax liabilities, beginning balance 0 0
Net, deferred tax asset (liabilities), beginning balance 194 231
(Charged)/credited to income (15) (40)
Credited/(charged) to equity 2 3
Credited/(charged) to other comprehensive income 0 0
Impact of business combinations 6  
Gross deferred tax assets, ending balance 187 194
Gross, deferred tax liabilities, ending balance 0 0
Net, deferred tax asset (liabilities), ending balance 187 194
Other assets, provisions and accruals    
Reconciliation of changes in deferred tax liability (asset) [abstract]    
Gross deferred tax assets, beginning balance 618 642
Gross, deferred tax liabilities, beginning balance (150) (130)
Net, deferred tax asset (liabilities), beginning balance 468 512
(Charged)/credited to income 4 (25)
Credited/(charged) to equity 5 (15)
Credited/(charged) to other comprehensive income (28) (4)
Impact of business combinations 0  
Gross deferred tax assets, ending balance 627 618
Gross, deferred tax liabilities, ending balance (178) (150)
Net, deferred tax asset (liabilities), ending balance $ 449 $ 468
v3.25.0.1
Deferred tax assets and liabilities - Net deferred tax balance (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Income Taxes [Abstract]      
Offsetting amounts $ 1,100 $ 1,100  
Deferred tax assets 421 443  
Deferred tax liabilities (724) (797)  
Net deferred tax liabilities $ (303) $ (354) $ (653)
v3.25.0.1
Deferred tax assets and liabilities - Impact on current taxes payable (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Billions
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Income Taxes [Abstract]    
Deferred tax assets $ 1.2 $ 1.2
Deferred tax liabilities $ 1.7 $ 1.8
v3.25.0.1
Deferred tax assets and liabilities - Additional information (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Income Taxes [Abstract]      
Unremitted earnings retained for reinvestment $ 10,000 $ 9,000  
Temporary differences and unused tax losses for which no deferred tax assets were recognized 8,900 8,900  
Capital loss carryforwards for which no deferred tax assets were recognized $ 83 131  
Capital loss carryforwards for which no deferred tax assets were recognized, expiration period 2 years    
Tax loss carryforwards expired in period $ 1 $ 0 $ 0
v3.25.0.1
Deferred tax assets and liabilities - Tax loss carryforwards (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Unrecognized    
Within five years $ 6 $ 3
More than five years 443 443
Not subject to expiry 0 0
Gross value of tax loss carryforwards 449 446
Recognized    
Within five years 55 29
More than five years 375 462
Not subject to expiry 691 681
Gross value of tax loss carryforwards 1,121 1,172
Within five years 61 32
More than five years 818 905
Not subject to expiry 691 681
Gross value of tax loss carryforwards $ 1,570 $ 1,618
v3.25.0.1
Financial and other non-current assets - Financial Assets (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Subclassifications of assets, liabilities and equities [abstract]    
Long-term note receivable and other financial assets measured at amortized cost $ 175 $ 161
Long-term financial investments measured at FVOCI 282 147
Long-term financial investments measured at FVPL 1 1
Long-term receivables from customers 121 126
Non-current minimum lease payments from finance lease agreements 28 38
Long-term loans, advances and security deposits 45 44
Total financial assets 652 517
Long-term convertible notes due from an associated companies $ 11 $ 11
v3.25.0.1
Financial and other non-current assets - Minimum finance lease payments (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Disclosure of maturity analysis of finance lease payments receivable [line items]    
Total future payments $ 63 $ 82
Unearned interest income (4) (5)
Present value 59 77
Provision (8) (12)
Net book value 51 65
Not later than one year    
Disclosure of maturity analysis of finance lease payments receivable [line items]    
Total future payments 25 30
Unearned interest income (2) (3)
Present value 23 27
Provision 0 0
Net book value 23 27
Between one and five years    
Disclosure of maturity analysis of finance lease payments receivable [line items]    
Total future payments 36 51
Unearned interest income (2) (2)
Present value 34 49
Provision (8) (12)
Net book value 26 37
Later than five years    
Disclosure of maturity analysis of finance lease payments receivable [line items]    
Total future payments 2 1
Unearned interest income 0 0
Present value 2 1
Provision 0 0
Net book value $ 2 $ 1
v3.25.0.1
Financial and other non-current assets - Other Non-current Assets (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Subclassifications of assets, liabilities and equities [abstract]    
Deferred compensation plans $ 180 $ 163
Prepaid post-employment benefit plans 6 6
Investments in associated companies 293 10
Other non-current assets 115 119
Total other non-current assets $ 594 $ 298
v3.25.0.1
Inventories - Additional information (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Disclosure Of Inventories [Line Items]      
Inventory write-down $ 217 $ 206 $ 200
Reversal of inventory write-down 64 88 72
Cost of net sales      
Disclosure Of Inventories [Line Items]      
Inventory recognized as expense 3,000 2,900 2,700
Cost of other revenues      
Disclosure Of Inventories [Line Items]      
Inventory recognized as expense $ 71 $ 67 $ 59
v3.25.0.1
Inventories - Schedule of inventories (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Inventories [Abstract]    
Raw material, consumables $ 438 $ 434
Work in progress 199 197
Finished products 1,631 1,691
Total inventories $ 2,268 $ 2,322
v3.25.0.1
Trade receivables - Components of trade receivables (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Disclosure of provision matrix [line items]        
Financial assets $ 4,674 $ 3,893    
Trade receivables        
Disclosure of provision matrix [line items]        
Financial assets 1,736 1,770    
Trade receivables | Gross        
Disclosure of provision matrix [line items]        
Financial assets 1,777 1,814    
Trade receivables | Provision        
Disclosure of provision matrix [line items]        
Financial assets (41) (44) $ (57) $ (55)
Not overdue | Trade receivables        
Disclosure of provision matrix [line items]        
Financial assets $ 1,446 $ 1,450    
Expected credit loss rates 0.10% 0.10%    
Not overdue | Trade receivables | Gross        
Disclosure of provision matrix [line items]        
Financial assets $ 1,448 $ 1,452    
Not overdue | Trade receivables | Provision        
Disclosure of provision matrix [line items]        
Financial assets (2) (2)    
Past due for not more than one month | Trade receivables        
Disclosure of provision matrix [line items]        
Financial assets $ 136 $ 142    
Expected credit loss rates 0.70% 0.70%    
Past due for not more than one month | Trade receivables | Gross        
Disclosure of provision matrix [line items]        
Financial assets $ 137 $ 143    
Past due for not more than one month | Trade receivables | Provision        
Disclosure of provision matrix [line items]        
Financial assets (1) (1)    
Past due for more than one month but less than three months | Trade receivables        
Disclosure of provision matrix [line items]        
Financial assets $ 82 $ 92    
Expected credit loss rates 2.40% 2.10%    
Past due for more than one month but less than three months | Trade receivables | Gross        
Disclosure of provision matrix [line items]        
Financial assets $ 84 $ 94    
Past due for more than one month but less than three months | Trade receivables | Provision        
Disclosure of provision matrix [line items]        
Financial assets (2) (2)    
Past due for more than three months but less than six months | Trade receivables        
Disclosure of provision matrix [line items]        
Financial assets $ 46 $ 52    
Expected credit loss rates 6.10% 3.70%    
Past due for more than three months but less than six months | Trade receivables | Gross        
Disclosure of provision matrix [line items]        
Financial assets $ 49 $ 54    
Past due for more than three months but less than six months | Trade receivables | Provision        
Disclosure of provision matrix [line items]        
Financial assets (3) (2)    
Past due for more than six months but less than one year | Trade receivables        
Disclosure of provision matrix [line items]        
Financial assets $ 16 $ 22    
Expected credit loss rates 38.50% 37.10%    
Past due for more than six months but less than one year | Trade receivables | Gross        
Disclosure of provision matrix [line items]        
Financial assets $ 26 $ 35    
Past due for more than six months but less than one year | Trade receivables | Provision        
Disclosure of provision matrix [line items]        
Financial assets (10) (13)    
Past due for more than one year | Trade receivables        
Disclosure of provision matrix [line items]        
Financial assets $ 10 $ 12    
Expected credit loss rates 69.70% 66.70%    
Past due for more than one year | Trade receivables | Gross        
Disclosure of provision matrix [line items]        
Financial assets $ 33 $ 36    
Past due for more than one year | Trade receivables | Provision        
Disclosure of provision matrix [line items]        
Financial assets $ (23) $ (24)    
v3.25.0.1
Trade receivables - Movement in provision for trade receivables (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Disclosure of reconciliation of changes in loss allowance and explanation of changes in gross carrying amount for financial instruments [line items]      
Balance as of January 1 $ 3,893    
Balance as of December 31 4,674 $ 3,893  
Trade receivables      
Disclosure of reconciliation of changes in loss allowance and explanation of changes in gross carrying amount for financial instruments [line items]      
Balance as of January 1 1,770    
Balance as of December 31 1,736 1,770  
Trade receivables | Provision      
Disclosure of reconciliation of changes in loss allowance and explanation of changes in gross carrying amount for financial instruments [line items]      
Balance as of January 1 (44) (57) $ (55)
Provisions for doubtful trade receivables charged to the Consolidated Income Statement (24) (26) (40)
Utilization of provisions for doubtful trade receivables 6 14 7
Reversal of provisions for doubtful trade receivables 19 26 28
Currency translation effects 2 (1) 3
Balance as of December 31 $ (41) $ (44) $ (57)
v3.25.0.1
Trade receivables - Trade receivables by currency (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]    
Financial assets $ 4,674 $ 3,893
Trade receivables    
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]    
Financial assets 1,736 1,770
US dollar (USD) | Trade receivables    
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]    
Financial assets 723 680
Euro (EUR) | Trade receivables    
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]    
Financial assets 303 315
Japanese yen (JPY) | Trade receivables    
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]    
Financial assets 138 156
Chinese yuan (CNY) | Trade receivables    
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]    
Financial assets 82 110
Brazilian real (BRL) | Trade receivables    
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]    
Financial assets 51 65
Canadian dollar (CAD) | Trade receivables    
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]    
Financial assets 40 40
Indian rupee (INR) | Trade receivables    
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]    
Financial assets 36 32
South Korean won (KRW) | Trade receivables    
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]    
Financial assets 34 36
British pound (GBP) | Trade receivables    
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]    
Financial assets 33 32
Turkish lira (TRY) | Trade receivables    
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]    
Financial assets 28 21
Taiwan dollar (TWD) | Trade receivables    
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]    
Financial assets 28 26
Australian dollar (AUD) | Trade receivables    
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]    
Financial assets 25 26
Russian ruble (RUB) | Trade receivables    
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]    
Financial assets 24 27
Mexican peso (MXN) | Trade receivables    
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]    
Financial assets 24 32
Other currencies | Trade receivables    
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]    
Financial assets $ 167 $ 172
v3.25.0.1
Other current assets (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Subclassifications of assets, liabilities and equities [abstract]    
Current portion of long-term receivables from customers $ 117 $ 116
Current portion of minimum lease payments from finance lease agreements 23 27
Current portion of long-term financial investments measured at FVPL 1 7
Prepaid expenses 117 112
VAT receivables 59 62
Other receivables, security deposits and current assets 124 101
Derivative financial instruments 12 2
Total other current assets $ 453 $ 427
v3.25.0.1
Right-of-use assets and Lease liabilities - Components of Right-of-Use Assets (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Disclosure of quantitative information about right-of-use assets [line items]    
Total right-of-use assets $ 449 $ 354
Land    
Disclosure of quantitative information about right-of-use assets [line items]    
Total right-of-use assets 21 14
Buildings and improvements    
Disclosure of quantitative information about right-of-use assets [line items]    
Total right-of-use assets 392 309
Machinery & equipment and other assets    
Disclosure of quantitative information about right-of-use assets [line items]    
Total right-of-use assets $ 36 $ 31
v3.25.0.1
Right-of-use assets and Lease liabilities - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Leases1 [Abstract]      
Depreciation of right-of-use assets $ 83 $ 91 $ 76
Total lease liabilities 497 406  
Current lease liabilities 68 71  
Non-current lease liabilities $ 429 $ 335  
v3.25.0.1
Right-of-use assets and Lease liabilities - Components of Right-of-Use Assets Depreciation (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Disclosure of quantitative information about right-of-use assets [line items]      
Total depreciation of right-of-use assets $ 83 $ 91 $ 76
Land      
Disclosure of quantitative information about right-of-use assets [line items]      
Total depreciation of right-of-use assets 1 1 1
Buildings and improvements      
Disclosure of quantitative information about right-of-use assets [line items]      
Total depreciation of right-of-use assets 62 72 58
Machinery & equipment and other assets      
Disclosure of quantitative information about right-of-use assets [line items]      
Total depreciation of right-of-use assets $ 20 $ 18 $ 17
v3.25.0.1
Right-of-use assets and Lease liabilities - Maturity of Lease Liabilities (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Disclosure of maturity analysis of lease payments [Line Items]    
Total lease liabilities undiscounted $ 640 $ 513
Total lease liabilities 497 406
Not later than one year    
Disclosure of maturity analysis of lease payments [Line Items]    
Total lease liabilities undiscounted 89 86
Total lease liabilities 68 71
Between one and five years    
Disclosure of maturity analysis of lease payments [Line Items]    
Total lease liabilities undiscounted 244 222
Total lease liabilities 183 178
Later than five years    
Disclosure of maturity analysis of lease payments [Line Items]    
Total lease liabilities undiscounted 307 205
Total lease liabilities $ 246 $ 157
v3.25.0.1
Right-of-use assets and Lease liabilities - Additional Disclosures Related to Leases (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Leases1 [Abstract]      
Interest expense on lease liabilities $ 19 $ 17 $ 15
Expense on short-term, low value and variable leases 3 3 3
Total cash outflows for leases 105 99 87
Thereof:      
Lease liability payments 83 79 69
Interest payments 19 17 15
Short-term, low value and variable lease payments $ 3 $ 3 $ 3
v3.25.0.1
Non-current and current financial debts - Schedule of financial debts (Details)
€ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2024
USD ($)
Dec. 31, 2024
EUR (€)
Dec. 31, 2023
USD ($)
Dec. 06, 2022
USD ($)
May 31, 2022
USD ($)
May 31, 2022
EUR (€)
May 27, 2020
USD ($)
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]              
Total non-current financial debts $ 4,538,000,000   $ 4,676,000,000        
Total current financial debts 105,000,000   63,000,000        
Total financial debts 4,643,000,000   4,739,000,000        
Cumulative Effect, Period of Adoption, Adjustment              
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]              
Total non-current financial debts     82,000,000        
Total current financial debts     (82,000,000)        
Local facilities, Japan              
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]              
Total non-current financial debts 0   110,000,000        
Total current financial debts $ 26,000,000   0        
Series 2026 Notes              
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]              
Borrowings, interest rate (as a percent) 2.75% 2.75%          
Total non-current financial debts $ 499,000,000   498,000,000        
Series 2028 Notes              
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]              
Borrowings, interest rate (as a percent) 2.375% 2.375%     2.375% 2.375%  
Total non-current financial debts $ 517,000,000   549,000,000        
Total financial debts $ 521,000,000 € 500     $ 537,000,000 € 500  
Series 2029 Notes              
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]              
Borrowings, interest rate (as a percent) 3.00% 3.00%          
Total non-current financial debts $ 995,000,000   994,000,000        
Series 2030 Notes              
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]              
Borrowings, interest rate (as a percent) 2.60% 2.60%         2.60%
Total non-current financial debts $ 746,000,000   746,000,000        
Total financial debts             $ 750,000,000
Series 2032 Notes              
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]              
Borrowings, interest rate (as a percent) 5.375% 5.375%   5.375%      
Total non-current financial debts $ 694,000,000   693,000,000        
Total financial debts       $ 700,000,000      
Series 2049 Notes              
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]              
Borrowings, interest rate (as a percent) 3.80% 3.80%          
Total non-current financial debts $ 495,000,000   494,000,000        
Series 2052 Notes              
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]              
Borrowings, interest rate (as a percent) 5.75% 5.75%   5.75%      
Total non-current financial debts $ 592,000,000   592,000,000        
Total financial debts       $ 600,000,000      
Revolving facility, floating rate due 2029              
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]              
Total non-current financial debts 0   0        
All others              
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]              
Total current financial debts 67,000,000   48,000,000        
Other short-term financial debts, floating rate              
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]              
Total current financial debts 8,000,000   5,000,000        
Derivatives              
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]              
Total current financial debts 4,000,000   10,000,000        
Total financial debts $ 4,000,000   $ 10,000,000        
v3.25.0.1
Non-current and current financial debts - Additional information (Details)
€ in Millions
3 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Oct. 01, 2024
USD ($)
Oct. 27, 2023
USD ($)
Feb. 14, 2023
borrowing_facility
Dec. 20, 2022
USD ($)
Dec. 06, 2022
USD ($)
Nov. 21, 2022
USD ($)
May 31, 2022
USD ($)
May 31, 2022
EUR (€)
May 27, 2020
USD ($)
Dec. 31, 2022
USD ($)
Jun. 30, 2022
USD ($)
Dec. 31, 2024
USD ($)
borrowing_facility
Dec. 31, 2023
USD ($)
Dec. 31, 2022
USD ($)
Dec. 31, 2024
EUR (€)
borrowing_facility
Oct. 26, 2023
USD ($)
Sep. 14, 2022
USD ($)
May 31, 2022
EUR (€)
May 30, 2022
USD ($)
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]                                      
Interest expense                       $ 165,000,000 $ 162,000,000 $ 110,000,000          
Borrowings                       4,643,000,000 4,739,000,000            
Write off of unamortized deferred financing costs                   $ 4,000,000                  
Repayment of borrowings                       47,000,000 34,000,000 $ 2,267,000,000          
Non-current financial debts                       4,538,000,000 4,676,000,000            
Current financial debts                       $ 105,000,000 63,000,000            
Cumulative Effect, Period of Adoption, Adjustment                                      
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]                                      
Non-current financial debts                         82,000,000            
Current financial debts                         (82,000,000)            
Aerie Pharmaceuticals, Inc.                                      
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]                                      
Net proceeds used for acquisition           $ 771,000,000                          
Borrowings recognised as of acquisition date           316,200,000             316,000,000            
Series 2028 Notes                                      
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]                                      
Borrowings, interest rate (as a percent)             2.375%         2.375%     2.375%     2.375%  
Borrowings             $ 537,000,000         $ 521,000,000     € 500     € 500  
Borrowings, issuance (as a percent)             99.476%                     99.476%  
Borrowing costs incurred             $ 3,000,000                        
Write off of unamortized deferred financing costs                     $ 1,000,000                
Non-current financial debts                       $ 517,000,000 549,000,000            
Series 2028 Notes | Borrowings discount                                      
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]                                      
Borrowings             (3,000,000)                        
Facility C Term Loan                                      
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]                                      
Repayments of non-current borrowings             376,000,000 € 350                      
Facility B Term Loan                                      
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]                                      
Borrowings                                     $ 800,000,000
Repayments of non-current borrowings         $ 640,000,000   $ 160,000,000                        
Repayment of borrowings         640,000,000                            
Bridge Loan Facility                                      
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]                                      
Borrowings           775,000,000                          
Borrowing costs incurred           $ 4,000,000                          
Repayments of non-current borrowings         775,000,000                            
Maximum borrowing capacity                                 $ 900,000,000    
Repayment of borrowings         $ 775,000,000                            
Series 2032 Notes                                      
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]                                      
Borrowings, interest rate (as a percent)         5.375%             5.375%     5.375%        
Borrowings         $ 700,000,000                            
Borrowings, issuance (as a percent)         99.458%                            
Borrowing costs incurred         $ 4,000,000                            
Non-current financial debts                       $ 694,000,000 693,000,000            
Series 2032 Notes | Borrowings discount                                      
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]                                      
Borrowings         $ (4,000,000)                            
Series 2052 Notes                                      
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]                                      
Borrowings, interest rate (as a percent)         5.75%             5.75%     5.75%        
Borrowings         $ 600,000,000                            
Borrowings, issuance (as a percent)         99.674%                            
Borrowing costs incurred         $ 7,000,000                            
Non-current financial debts                       $ 592,000,000 592,000,000            
Series 2052 Notes | Borrowings discount                                      
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]                                      
Borrowings         $ (2,000,000)                            
Senior Notes due 2024                                      
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]                                      
Borrowings, interest rate (as a percent)           1.50%                          
Repayment of borrowings $ 200,000     $ 316,000,000                              
Series 2030 Notes                                      
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]                                      
Borrowings, interest rate (as a percent)                 2.60%     2.60%     2.60%        
Borrowings                 $ 750,000,000                    
Borrowings, issuance (as a percent)                 99.843%                    
Borrowing costs incurred                 $ 5,000,000                    
Non-current financial debts                       $ 746,000,000 $ 746,000,000            
Series 2030 Notes | Borrowings discount                                      
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]                                      
Borrowings                 $ 1,000,000                    
Unsecured Committed Multicurrency Revolving Credit Facility                                      
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]                                      
Maximum borrowing capacity   $ 1,320,000,000                           $ 1,000,000,000      
Borrowings, term (in years)   5 years                                  
Local bilateral facilities, Japan                                      
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]                                      
Borrowings, term (in years)     2 years                                
Number of facilities matured | borrowing_facility     3                                
Number of facilities entered | borrowing_facility     3                                
Undrawn borrowing facilities                       $ 118,000,000              
Number of facilities | borrowing_facility                       3     3        
Weighted average                                      
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]                                      
Borrowings, interest rate (as a percent)                       3.50% 3.50%   3.50%        
v3.25.0.1
Non-current and current financial debts - Maturity of borrowings (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]    
Borrowings $ 4,643 $ 4,739
Non-current financial debts 4,538 4,676
Current financial debts 105 63
Cumulative Effect, Period of Adoption, Adjustment    
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]    
Non-current financial debts   82
Current financial debts   (82)
Cost    
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]    
Borrowings 4,676 4,776
Cost | Not later than one year    
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]    
Borrowings 105 63
Cost | Between one and five years    
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]    
Borrowings 2,021 1,163
Cost | Later than five years    
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]    
Borrowings 2,550 3,550
Unamortized debt discount and issuance costs    
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]    
Borrowings (33) (37)
Nominal amount - Current and non-current financial debt    
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]    
Borrowings 4,639 4,729
Nominal amount - Current and non-current financial debt | Cost    
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]    
Borrowings 4,672 4,766
Nominal amount - Current and non-current financial debt | Cost | Not later than one year    
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]    
Borrowings 101 53
Nominal amount - Current and non-current financial debt | Cost | Between one and five years    
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]    
Borrowings 2,021 1,163
Nominal amount - Current and non-current financial debt | Cost | Later than five years    
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]    
Borrowings 2,550 3,550
Nominal amount - Current and non-current financial debt | Unamortized debt discount and issuance costs    
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]    
Borrowings (33) (37)
Derivatives    
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]    
Borrowings 4 10
Current financial debts 4 10
Derivatives | Cost    
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]    
Borrowings 4 10
Derivatives | Cost | Not later than one year    
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]    
Borrowings 4 10
Derivatives | Cost | Between one and five years    
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]    
Borrowings 0 0
Derivatives | Cost | Later than five years    
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]    
Borrowings 0 0
Derivatives | Unamortized debt discount and issuance costs    
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]    
Borrowings $ 0 $ 0
v3.25.0.1
Non-current and current financial debts - Maturity of interest expense (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]    
Total cash flows $ 2,076 $ 2,247
Not later than one year    
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]    
Total cash flows 167 167
Between one and five years    
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]    
Total cash flows 613 643
Later than five years    
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]    
Total cash flows $ 1,296 $ 1,437
v3.25.0.1
Financial instruments - additional disclosures - Details of net financial assets and financial liabilities (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]    
Total financial assets $ 4,674 $ 3,893
Total financial liabilities 6,009 6,046
Net financial assets and financial liabilities (1,335) (2,153)
Financial liabilities - measured at amortized cost or cost    
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]    
Total financial liabilities 5,909 5,946
Financial liabilities - measured at amortized cost or cost | Financial debts    
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]    
Total financial liabilities 101 53
Financial liabilities - measured at amortized cost or cost | Lease liabilities    
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]    
Total financial liabilities 68 71
Financial liabilities - measured at amortized cost or cost | Trade payables    
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]    
Total financial liabilities 773 811
Financial liabilities - measured at amortized cost or cost | Current financial liabilities    
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]    
Total financial liabilities 942 935
Financial liabilities - measured at amortized cost or cost | Financial debts    
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]    
Total financial liabilities 4,538 4,676
Financial liabilities - measured at amortized cost or cost | Lease liabilities    
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]    
Total financial liabilities 429 335
Financial liabilities - measured at amortized cost or cost | Non-current financial liabilities    
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]    
Total financial liabilities 4,967 5,011
Financial liabilities - measured at FVPL    
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]    
Total financial liabilities 100 100
Financial liabilities - measured at FVPL | Contingent consideration liabilities    
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]    
Total financial liabilities 96 90
Financial liabilities - measured at FVPL | Derivative financial instruments    
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]    
Total financial liabilities 4 10
Financial assets - measured at fair value through other comprehensive income ("FVOCI")    
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]    
Total financial assets 282 147
Financial assets - measured at amortized cost    
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]    
Total financial assets 2,522 2,479
Financial assets - mandatorily measured at fair value through profit and loss ("FVPL")    
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]    
Total financial assets 194 173
Cash and cash equivalents    
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]    
Total financial assets 1,676 1,094
Cash in current accounts    
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]    
Total financial assets 378 270
Cash held in time deposits and money market funds    
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]    
Total financial assets 1,298 824
Long-term financial investments | Financial assets - measured at fair value through other comprehensive income ("FVOCI")    
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]    
Total financial assets 282 147
Long-term financial investments | Financial assets - mandatorily measured at fair value through profit and loss ("FVPL")    
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]    
Total financial assets 1 1
Trade receivables | Financial assets - measured at amortized cost    
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]    
Total financial assets 1,736 1,770
Current portion of long-term receivables from customers | Financial assets - measured at amortized cost    
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]    
Total financial assets 117  
Current portion of minimum lease payments from finance lease agreements | Financial assets - measured at amortized cost    
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]    
Total financial assets 23  
Other receivables, security deposits and current assets | Financial assets - measured at amortized cost    
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]    
Total financial assets 124  
Time deposits with original maturity greater than three months | Financial assets - measured at amortized cost    
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]    
Total financial assets 153  
Income tax receivables | Financial assets - measured at amortized cost    
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]    
Total financial assets   34
Other current assets (excluding prepaid expenses and other current assets measured at FVPL) | Financial assets - measured at amortized cost    
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]    
Total financial assets   306
Long-term note receivable and other financial assets | Financial assets - measured at amortized cost    
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]    
Total financial assets 175 161
Long-term receivables from customers | Financial assets - measured at amortized cost    
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]    
Total financial assets 121 126
Non-current minimum lease payments from finance lease agreements | Financial assets - measured at amortized cost    
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]    
Total financial assets 28 38
Long-term loans, advances and security deposits | Financial assets - measured at amortized cost    
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]    
Total financial assets 45 44
Deferred compensation assets | Financial assets - mandatorily measured at fair value through profit and loss ("FVPL")    
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]    
Total financial assets 180 163
Current portion of long-term financial investments | Financial assets - mandatorily measured at fair value through profit and loss ("FVPL")    
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]    
Total financial assets 1 7
Derivative financial instruments | Financial assets - mandatorily measured at fair value through profit and loss ("FVPL")    
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]    
Total financial assets $ 12 $ 2
v3.25.0.1
Financial instruments - additional disclosures - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
May 22, 2023
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Disclosure of nature and extent of risks arising from financial instruments [line items]        
Financial liabilities, at carrying value   $ 6,009 $ 6,046  
Contingent amounts   780 395  
Purchase of time deposits   $ 150 0 $ 0
Time deposits , maturity term   6 months    
Time deposits   $ 153 0  
Long term note receivable and capitalized transaction costs $ 150      
Long term note receivable 142      
Capitalized transaction costs $ 4      
Long term note receivable, interest rate (as a percent) 10.00%      
Borrowings, period for PIK interest 3 years      
Long term note receivable, effective interest rate (as a percent)   10.00%    
Debt at fixed interest rates (as a percent)   98.00%    
Non-current financial assets   $ 652 $ 517  
Interest rate risk        
Disclosure of nature and extent of risks arising from financial instruments [line items]        
Reasonably possible change in risk variable and short-term financial investments (as a percent)   1.00%    
Reasonably possible change in risk variable and short-term financial investments, impact on loss before taxes   $ 11    
Commodity price risk        
Disclosure of nature and extent of risks arising from financial instruments [line items]        
Reasonably possible change in risk variable and short-term financial investments (as a percent)   10.00%    
Cash Interest Rate        
Disclosure of nature and extent of risks arising from financial instruments [line items]        
Long term note receivable, interest rate (as a percent) 3.00%      
Paid In Kind Interest Rate        
Disclosure of nature and extent of risks arising from financial instruments [line items]        
Long term note receivable, interest rate (as a percent) 7.00%      
Minimum        
Disclosure of nature and extent of risks arising from financial instruments [line items]        
Success probability (as a percent)   0.00% 3.00%  
Maximum        
Disclosure of nature and extent of risks arising from financial instruments [line items]        
Success probability (as a percent)   55.00% 55.00%  
Contingent consideration liabilities | Level 3        
Disclosure of nature and extent of risks arising from financial instruments [line items]        
Financial liabilities, at carrying value   $ 96 $ 90 $ 98
Adjustments for changes in assumptions   7 17  
Long-term note receivable and other financial assets | Financial assets - measured at amortized cost        
Disclosure of nature and extent of risks arising from financial instruments [line items]        
Maximum exposure to credit risk   176    
Non-current financial assets   175    
Current financial assets   1    
Collateral held, amount   $ 320    
Percentage decrease in estimated amount of collateral   15.00%    
Pricing, measurement input | Long-term financial investments        
Disclosure of nature and extent of risks arising from financial instruments [line items]        
Percentage of possible increase in unobservable input, assets (as a percent)   10.00%    
Percentage of reasonably possible decrease in unobservable input, assets (as a percent)   10.00%    
Increase (decrease) in fair value due to increase in unobservable input, profit or loss, assets   $ 20    
Increase (decrease) in fair value due to increase in unobservable input, comprehensive income, assets   20    
Increase (decrease) in fair value due to decrease in unobservable input, comprehensive income, assets   20    
Increase (decrease) in fair value due to decrease in unobservable input, profit or loss, assets   $ 20    
Probability of success, measurement input | Contingent consideration liabilities        
Disclosure of nature and extent of risks arising from financial instruments [line items]        
Percentage of reasonably possible increase in unobservable input, liabilities   10.00%    
Percentage of reasonably possible decrease in unobservable input, liabilities   10.00%    
Increase (decrease) in fair value due to possible increase in unobservable input, recognised in profit or loss, before tax, liabilities   $ 18    
Increase (decrease) in fair value measurement due to reasonably possible decrease in unobservable input, recognised in profit or loss, before tax, liabilities   18    
Financial liabilities - measured at amortized cost or cost        
Disclosure of nature and extent of risks arising from financial instruments [line items]        
Financial liabilities, at carrying value   5,909 5,946  
Senior notes due 2026, 2028, 2029, 2030, 2032, 2049 and 2052        
Disclosure of nature and extent of risks arising from financial instruments [line items]        
Financial liabilities, at fair value   4,240 4,347  
Senior notes due 2026, 2028, 2029, 2030, 2032, 2049 and 2052 | Financial liabilities - measured at amortized cost or cost        
Disclosure of nature and extent of risks arising from financial instruments [line items]        
Financial liabilities, at carrying value   $ 4,538 $ 4,566  
Series 2026 Notes        
Disclosure of nature and extent of risks arising from financial instruments [line items]        
Borrowings, interest rate (as a percent)   2.75%    
v3.25.0.1
Financial instruments - additional disclosures - Schedule of fair value of assets and liabilities (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]      
Financial assets $ 652 $ 517  
Financial assets at fair value 4,674 3,893  
Financial liabilities at fair value (6,009) (6,046)  
Recurring fair value measurement      
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]      
Financial liabilities at fair value (100) (100)  
Recurring fair value measurement | Contingent consideration liabilities      
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]      
Financial liabilities at fair value (96) (90)  
Recurring fair value measurement | Derivative financial instruments      
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]      
Financial liabilities at fair value (4) (10)  
Level 1 | Recurring fair value measurement      
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]      
Financial liabilities at fair value 0 0  
Level 1 | Recurring fair value measurement | Contingent consideration liabilities      
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]      
Financial liabilities at fair value 0 0  
Level 1 | Recurring fair value measurement | Derivative financial instruments      
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]      
Financial liabilities at fair value 0 0  
Level 2 | Recurring fair value measurement      
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]      
Financial liabilities at fair value (4) (10)  
Level 2 | Recurring fair value measurement | Contingent consideration liabilities      
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]      
Financial liabilities at fair value 0 0  
Level 2 | Recurring fair value measurement | Derivative financial instruments      
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]      
Financial liabilities at fair value (4) (10)  
Level 3 | Contingent consideration liabilities      
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]      
Financial liabilities at fair value (96) (90) $ (98)
Level 3 | Recurring fair value measurement      
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]      
Financial liabilities at fair value (96) (90)  
Level 3 | Recurring fair value measurement | Contingent consideration liabilities      
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]      
Financial liabilities at fair value (96) (90)  
Level 3 | Recurring fair value measurement | Derivative financial instruments      
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]      
Financial liabilities at fair value 0 0  
Investments, derivative financial instruments and deferred compensation assets | Recurring fair value measurement      
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]      
Financial assets 463 311  
Current financial assets at fair value 445 93  
Financial assets at fair value 908 404  
Investments, derivative financial instruments and deferred compensation assets | Level 1 | Recurring fair value measurement      
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]      
Financial assets 261 163  
Current financial assets at fair value 432 84  
Financial assets at fair value 693 247  
Investments, derivative financial instruments and deferred compensation assets | Level 2 | Recurring fair value measurement      
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]      
Financial assets 0 0  
Current financial assets at fair value 12 2  
Financial assets at fair value 12 2  
Investments, derivative financial instruments and deferred compensation assets | Level 3 | Recurring fair value measurement      
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]      
Financial assets 202 148  
Current financial assets at fair value 1 7  
Financial assets at fair value 203 155  
Deferred compensation assets | Recurring fair value measurement      
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]      
Financial assets 180 163  
Deferred compensation assets | Level 1 | Recurring fair value measurement      
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]      
Financial assets 180 163  
Deferred compensation assets | Level 2 | Recurring fair value measurement      
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]      
Financial assets 0 0  
Deferred compensation assets | Level 3 | Recurring fair value measurement      
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]      
Financial assets 0 0  
Money market funds | Recurring fair value measurement      
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]      
Current financial assets at fair value 432 84  
Money market funds | Level 1 | Recurring fair value measurement      
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]      
Current financial assets at fair value 432 84  
Money market funds | Level 2 | Recurring fair value measurement      
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]      
Current financial assets at fair value 0 0  
Money market funds | Level 3 | Recurring fair value measurement      
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]      
Current financial assets at fair value 0 0  
Derivative financial instruments | Recurring fair value measurement      
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]      
Current financial assets at fair value 12 2  
Derivative financial instruments | Level 1 | Recurring fair value measurement      
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]      
Current financial assets at fair value 0 0  
Derivative financial instruments | Level 2 | Recurring fair value measurement      
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]      
Current financial assets at fair value 12 2  
Derivative financial instruments | Level 3 | Recurring fair value measurement      
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]      
Current financial assets at fair value 0 0  
Financial assets - measured at fair value through other comprehensive income ("FVOCI")      
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]      
Financial assets at fair value 282 147  
Financial assets - measured at fair value through other comprehensive income ("FVOCI") | Long-term financial investments      
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]      
Financial assets at fair value 282 147  
Financial assets - measured at fair value through other comprehensive income ("FVOCI") | Long-term financial investments | Recurring fair value measurement      
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]      
Financial assets 282 147  
Financial assets - measured at fair value through other comprehensive income ("FVOCI") | Long-term financial investments | Level 1 | Recurring fair value measurement      
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]      
Financial assets 81 0  
Financial assets - measured at fair value through other comprehensive income ("FVOCI") | Long-term financial investments | Level 2 | Recurring fair value measurement      
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]      
Financial assets 0 0  
Financial assets - measured at fair value through other comprehensive income ("FVOCI") | Long-term financial investments | Level 3 | Recurring fair value measurement      
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]      
Financial assets 201 147  
Measured at FVPL      
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]      
Financial assets at fair value 194 173  
Measured at FVPL | Long-term financial investments      
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]      
Financial assets at fair value 1 1  
Measured at FVPL | Long-term financial investments | Recurring fair value measurement      
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]      
Financial assets 1 1  
Measured at FVPL | Long-term financial investments | Level 1 | Recurring fair value measurement      
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]      
Financial assets 0 0  
Measured at FVPL | Long-term financial investments | Level 2 | Recurring fair value measurement      
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]      
Financial assets 0 0  
Measured at FVPL | Long-term financial investments | Level 3 | Recurring fair value measurement      
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]      
Financial assets 1 1  
Measured at FVPL | Deferred compensation assets      
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]      
Financial assets at fair value 180 163  
Measured at FVPL | Current portion of long-term financial investments      
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]      
Financial assets at fair value 1 7  
Measured at FVPL | Current portion of long-term financial investments | Recurring fair value measurement      
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]      
Current financial assets at fair value 1 7  
Measured at FVPL | Current portion of long-term financial investments | Level 1 | Recurring fair value measurement      
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]      
Current financial assets at fair value 0 0  
Measured at FVPL | Current portion of long-term financial investments | Level 2 | Recurring fair value measurement      
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]      
Current financial assets at fair value 0 0  
Measured at FVPL | Current portion of long-term financial investments | Level 3 | Recurring fair value measurement      
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]      
Current financial assets at fair value 1 7  
Measured at FVPL | Derivative financial instruments      
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets and liabilities [Line Items]      
Financial assets at fair value $ 12 $ 2  
v3.25.0.1
Financial instruments - additional disclosures - Activity in level 3 financial assets (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Reconciliation of changes in fair value measurement, assets [abstract]    
Balance as of January 1 $ 3,893  
Balance as of December 31 4,674 $ 3,893
Long-term financial investments measured at FVOCI    
Reconciliation of changes in fair value measurement, assets [abstract]    
Balance as of January 1 147  
Balance as of December 31 282 147
Financial investments measured at FVPL    
Reconciliation of changes in fair value measurement, assets [abstract]    
Balance as of January 1 173  
Balance as of December 31 194 173
Long-term financial investments | Level 3 | Long-term financial investments measured at FVOCI    
Reconciliation of changes in fair value measurement, assets [abstract]    
Balance as of January 1 147 88
Additions 116 67
Net gains/(losses) recognized in Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income 90 (2)
Net gains/(losses) recognized in Consolidated Income Statement 0 0
Amortization 0 0
Transfer to Other non-current assets (132) 0
Settlements (20) (6)
Balance as of December 31 201 147
Long-term financial investments | Level 3 | Financial investments measured at FVPL    
Reconciliation of changes in fair value measurement, assets [abstract]    
Balance as of January 1 8 20
Additions 0 13
Net gains/(losses) recognized in Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income 0 0
Net gains/(losses) recognized in Consolidated Income Statement 2 (5)
Amortization (3) (5)
Transfer to Other non-current assets 0 0
Settlements (5) (15)
Balance as of December 31 $ 2 $ 8
v3.25.0.1
Financial instruments - additional disclosures - Activity in level 3 financial liabilities (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Reconciliation of changes in fair value measurement, liabilities [abstract]    
Balance as of January 1 $ (6,046)  
Balance as of December 31 (6,009) $ (6,046)
Level 3 | Contingent consideration liabilities    
Reconciliation of changes in fair value measurement, liabilities [abstract]    
Balance as of January 1 (90) (98)
Additions (6) 0
Accretion for passage of time (7) (9)
Adjustments for changes in assumptions 7 17
Balance as of December 31 $ (96) $ (90)
v3.25.0.1
Financial instruments - additional disclosures - Disclosure of net value of unsettled positions for derivative forward contracts and swaps (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Financial Instruments [Abstract]    
Unrealized gains in Other current assets $ 12 $ 2
Unrealized losses in Current financial debts (4) (10)
Net value of unsettled positions for derivatives contracts $ 8 $ (8)
v3.25.0.1
Provisions and other non-current liabilities - Provisions and other non-current liabilities (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Accrued liability for employee benefits:    
Defined benefit pension plans $ 198 $ 221
Other post-employment benefits 208 213
Other long-term employee benefits and deferred compensation 205 184
Provisions for litigation and other legal matters 0 0
Contingent consideration 96 90
Deferred income 86 32
Other non-current liabilities 32 44
Total provisions and other non-current liabilities $ 825 $ 784
v3.25.0.1
Provisions and other non-current liabilities - Additional Information (Details) - patent
Oct. 31, 2022
Dec. 11, 2020
Hoya patent dispute    
Disclosure of contingent liabilities [line items]    
Contingent liabilities, number of patents allegedly infringed   6
Hatch-Waxman patent litigation    
Disclosure of contingent liabilities [line items]    
Contingent assets, number of patents allegedly infringed 2  
v3.25.0.1
Provisions and other non-current liabilities - Product liability, governmental investigations and other legal matters provision movements (Details) - Litigation and other legal matters - USD ($)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Reconciliation of changes in other provisions [abstract]      
January 1 $ 6 $ 206 $ 53
Additions to provisions 15 3 175
Cash payments (13) (201) (21)
Releases of provisions (4) (2) (1)
December 31 4 6 206
Less current portion (4) (6) (206)
Non-current provisions for litigation and other legal matters at December 31 $ 0 $ 0 $ 0
v3.25.0.1
Provisions and other current liabilities - Provisions and other current liabilities (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Subclassifications of assets, liabilities and equities [abstract]        
Accruals for compensation and benefits including social security $ 531 $ 550    
Accruals for deductions from revenue 396 394 $ 386 $ 264
Deferred income 73 78    
Taxes other than income taxes 59 71    
Restructuring provisions 0 29    
Accrued expenses for goods and services received but not invoiced 65 86    
Accruals for royalties 11 11    
Provisions for litigation and other legal matters 4 6    
Accrued equity-based payments 11 13    
Accrued interest on financial debts 32 32    
Other payables 46 69    
Total provisions and other current liabilities $ 1,228 $ 1,339    
v3.25.0.1
Provisions and other current liabilities - Accruals for deductions from revenue (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Movement of Accruals for Deductions from Revenue [Roll Forward]      
January 1 $ 394 $ 386 $ 264
Additions 1,256 1,235 878
Impact of business combinations 0 0 86
Payments/utilizations (1,243) (1,218) (829)
Changes in offset against gross trade receivables 1 (8) (3)
Currency translation effects (12) (1) (10)
December 31 $ 396 $ 394 $ 386
v3.25.0.1
Provisions and other current liabilities - Restructuring provisions (Details) - Restructuring provisions - USD ($)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Reconciliation of changes in other provisions [abstract]      
January 1 $ 29 $ 64 $ 17
Additions 0 39 72
Cash payments (27) (74) (24)
Releases (1) 0 (1)
Currency translation effects (1) 0 0
December 31 $ 0 $ 29 $ 64
v3.25.0.1
Provisions and other current liabilities - Additional information (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Restructuring provisions      
Disclosure of other provisions [line items]      
Additions to provisions $ 0 $ 39 $ 72
v3.25.0.1
Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows - additional details - Depreciation, amortization, impairments and fair value adjustments (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]      
Total $ 1,226 $ 1,226 $ 1,111
Property, plant & equipment      
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]      
Total 393 385 332
Right-of-use assets      
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]      
Total 83 91 76
Intangible assets      
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]      
Total 752 745 715
Financial assets      
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]      
Total 0 7 (14)
Other non-current assets      
Disclosure of detailed information about property, plant and equipment [line items]      
Total $ (2) $ (2) $ 2
v3.25.0.1
Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows - additional details - Change in net current assets and other operating cash flow items (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Cash Flow Statement [Abstract]      
(Increase) in inventories $ (47) $ (271) $ (217)
(Increase) in trade receivables (55) (110) (164)
(Decrease) in trade payables (15) (51) (48)
Net change in other operating assets (28) (23) (63)
Net change in other operating liabilities (44) 51 (30)
Total $ (189) $ (404) $ (522)
v3.25.0.1
Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows - additional details - Reconciliation of assets and liabilities arising from financing activities (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Financial Liabilities      
Repayment of financial debts $ (47) $ (34) $ (2,267)
Proceeds from financial debts, net of issuance costs 59 69 2,586
Other net changes in financial debts (66) 37 (42)
Lease liabilities      
Lease liabilities at beginning of period 406    
Payments of lease liabilities, net (83) (79) (69)
Lease liabilities at end of period 497 406  
Current financial debts 105 63  
Non-current financial debts 4,538 4,676  
Cumulative Effect, Period of Adoption, Adjustment      
Lease liabilities      
Current financial debts   (82)  
Non-current financial debts   82  
Non-current financial debts      
Financial Liabilities      
Liabilities arising from financing activities at beginning of period 4,676 4,541 3,966
Repayment of financial debts     (1,176)
Proceeds from financial debts, net of issuance costs   29 1,815
Amortization of discounts on financial debts 2 2 1
Changes in fair values and other non-cash changes, net 3 3 5
Currency translation effects (39) 19 (23)
Reclassification from non-current to current (104) 82 (47)
Liabilities arising from financing activities at end of period 4,538 4,676 4,541
Current financial debts      
Financial Liabilities      
Liabilities arising from financing activities at beginning of period 63 107 114
Repayment of financial debts (47) (34) (1,091)
Proceeds from financial debts, net of issuance costs 59 40 771
Impact from business combination     316
Other net changes in financial debts (66) 37 (42)
Changes in fair values and other non-cash changes, net (6) (1) 8
Currency translation effects (2) (4) (16)
Reclassification from non-current to current 104 (82) 47
Liabilities arising from financing activities at end of period 105 63 107
Non-current lease liabilities      
Financial Liabilities      
Impact from business combination     22
Lease liabilities      
Lease liabilities at beginning of period 335 359 339
Additions to leases 170 48 68
Impact of asset acquisitions     2
Changes in fair values and other non-cash changes, net (1) (4) (2)
Currency translation effects (10) 2 (10)
Reclassification from non-current to current (65) (70) (60)
Lease liabilities at end of period 429 335 359
Current lease liabilities      
Financial Liabilities      
Impact from business combination     5
Lease liabilities      
Lease liabilities at beginning of period 71 71 67
Additions to leases 21 15 13
Impact of asset acquisitions     1
Payments of lease liabilities, net (83) (79) (69)
Interest payments for amounts included in lease liabilities classified as cash flows from operating activities (19) (17) (15)
Changes in fair values and other non-cash changes, net 16 11 13
Currency translation effects (3)   (4)
Reclassification from non-current to current 65 70 60
Lease liabilities at end of period $ 68 $ 71 $ 71
v3.25.0.1
Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows - additional details - Non-cash investing and financing activity (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Cash Flow Statement [Abstract]      
Treasury stock issued for settlement of equity-based compensation plan, net of withholding taxes $ 109 $ 107 $ 128
Non-cash additions of right-of-use assets in exchange for a lease liability 191 63 81
Non-cash additions of property, plant & equipment 53 55 62
Non-cash additions of intangible assets 13 16 105
Non-cash additions of financial assets $ 118 $ 0 $ 0
v3.25.0.1
Acquisitions, divestment of product rights and out-licensing - Additional information (Details)
1 Months Ended 3 Months Ended 6 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Oct. 17, 2024
USD ($)
Jul. 01, 2024
USD ($)
Nov. 21, 2022
USD ($)
product
$ / shares
Jan. 07, 2022
USD ($)
Dec. 31, 2022
USD ($)
Dec. 31, 2024
USD ($)
Sep. 30, 2023
USD ($)
Dec. 31, 2024
USD ($)
Dec. 31, 2024
USD ($)
Dec. 31, 2023
USD ($)
Dec. 31, 2022
USD ($)
Sep. 30, 2024
USD ($)
Disclosure of detailed information about business combination [line items]                        
Goodwill         $ 8,926,000,000 $ 8,946,000,000   $ 8,946,000,000 $ 8,946,000,000 $ 8,926,000,000 $ 8,926,000,000  
Consideration paid for acquisition of businesses                 61,000,000 0 666,000,000  
Current income tax liabilities         175,000,000 104,000,000   104,000,000 104,000,000 114,000,000 175,000,000  
Pro forma net sales                     8,776,000,000  
Pro forma net income                     192,000,000  
Acquisitions of assets, net of cash acquired                 0 2,000,000 485,000,000  
Net gain on product divestments                 57,000,000 0 0  
Deferred income, current           73,000,000   73,000,000 73,000,000 78,000,000    
Deferred income           86,000,000   86,000,000 86,000,000 32,000,000    
China divestment of product rights and out-licensing                        
Disclosure of detailed information about business combination [line items]                        
Divestment, value of ordinary shares received $ 116,000,000                      
Divestment, percentage of ordinary shares received 16.70%                      
Divestment, transaction costs capitalized $ 2,000,000                      
Divestment, additional potential consideration 50,000,000                      
Net gain on product divestments           57,000,000            
Divestment, net carrying value of divested rights $ 2,000,000                      
Supply agreement, term 15 years                      
Deferred income, current $ 2,000,000                      
Deferred income $ 54,000,000                      
Ivantis, Inc.                        
Disclosure of detailed information about business combination [line items]                        
Percentage of voting equity interests acquired (as a percent)       100.00%                
Acquisitions of assets, net of cash acquired                     477,000,000  
Acquisition of assets, upfront consideration       $ 479,000,000                
Acquisition of assets, direct acquisition costs                     2,000,000  
BELKIN Vision Ltd.                        
Disclosure of detailed information about business combination [line items]                        
Percentage of voting equity interests acquired (as a percent)   100.00%                    
Goodwill   $ 20,000,000                   $ 20,000,000
Consideration transferred   92,000,000                   92,000,000
Previously-held FVOCI financial investments   20,000,000                   20,000,000
Consideration paid for acquisition of businesses   61,000,000       $ 1,000,000            
Contingent consideration, maximum amount   $ 385,000,000                    
Contingent consideration                       6,000,000
Acquisition and integration costs                 $ 1,000,000      
Acquired business, increase in net sales               1,000,000        
Acquired business, reduction in net income               $ 4,000,000        
BELKIN Vision Ltd. | Level 3                        
Disclosure of detailed information about business combination [line items]                        
Contingent consideration                       $ 6,000,000
Aerie Pharmaceuticals, Inc.                        
Disclosure of detailed information about business combination [line items]                        
Percentage of voting equity interests acquired (as a percent)     100.00%                  
Goodwill     $ 65,000,000       $ 21,000,000     21,000,000    
Consideration transferred     744,000,000             $ 744,000,000    
Consideration paid for acquisition of businesses     $ 666,000,000                  
Acquisition and integration costs                     $ 20,000,000  
Acquired business, increase in net sales         16,000,000              
Acquired business, reduction in net income         $ 32,000,000              
Number of products acquired | product     2                  
Price paid (in dollars per share) | $ / shares     $ 15.25                  
Contingent liability             $ 58,000,000          
v3.25.0.1
Acquisitions, divestment of product rights and out-licensing - Purchase price allocation for business combinations (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
13 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2024
Sep. 30, 2024
Jul. 01, 2024
Sep. 30, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Nov. 21, 2022
Disclosure of detailed information about business combination [line items]              
Goodwill $ 8,926.0 $ 8,946.0       $ 8,926.0  
BELKIN Vision Ltd.              
Disclosure of detailed information about business combination [line items]              
Property, plant and equipment     $ 1.0        
Deferred tax assets     6.0        
Inventories     3.0        
Cash and cash equivalents     3.0        
Other current assets     2.0        
Deferred tax liabilities     (17.0)        
Provisions and other current liabilities     (1.0)        
Net identifiable assets acquired     72.0        
Goodwill     20.0 $ 20.0      
Consideration transferred     92.0 92.0      
Acquired liquidity     (3.0)        
Net assets recognized as a result of business combinations     89.0        
Purchase consideration              
Cash paid at closing     64.0        
Cash expected to be paid after closing     2.0        
Previously-held FVOCI financial investments     20.0 $ 20.0      
Contingent consideration     6.0        
BELKIN Vision Ltd. | Currently marketed products              
Disclosure of detailed information about business combination [line items]              
Intangible assets     $ 75.0        
Aerie Pharmaceuticals, Inc.              
Disclosure of detailed information about business combination [line items]              
Property, plant and equipment 27.0           $ 27.0
Right-of-use assets 29.0           29.0
Deferred tax assets 189.0           189.0
Inventories 49.0           49.0
Trade receivables 70.0           70.0
Short-term investments 79.0           79.0
Cash and cash equivalents 78.0           78.0
Other assets 15.0           15.0
Lease liabilities (27.0)           (27.0)
Deferred tax liabilities (255.0)           (255.0)
Provisions and other non-current and current liabilities (235.0)           (235.0)
Current income tax liabilities (2.0)           (46.0)
Trade payables (3.0)           (3.0)
Financial debts (316.0)           (316.2)
Net identifiable assets acquired 723.0           679.0
Goodwill 21.0       $ 21.0   65.0
Consideration transferred 744.0           744.0
Acquired liquidity (78.0)           (78.0)
Net assets recognized as a result of business combinations 666.0           666.0
Measurement period adjustments              
Current income tax liabilities 44.0            
Net identifiable assets acquired 44.0            
Goodwill (44.0)            
Total purchase consideration 0.0            
Aerie Pharmaceuticals, Inc. | Currently marketed products              
Disclosure of detailed information about business combination [line items]              
Intangible assets 850.0           850.0
Aerie Pharmaceuticals, Inc. | Acquired in-process research & development              
Disclosure of detailed information about business combination [line items]              
Intangible assets $ 175.0           $ 175.0
v3.25.0.1
Acquisitions, divestment of product rights and out-licensing - Purchase price allocation for asset acquisitions (Details)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2022
USD ($)
Asset Acquisition [Line Items]  
Deferred tax assets $ 57
Trade receivables 10
Inventory 16
Cash and cash equivalents 4
Other assets 6
Trade payables and other liabilities (11)
Net identifiable assets acquired 489
Acquired liquidity (4)
Net assets recognized as a result of asset acquisitions 485
Currently marketed products  
Asset Acquisition [Line Items]  
Intangible assets 385
Acquired in-process research & development  
Asset Acquisition [Line Items]  
Intangible assets 10
Other (including software)  
Asset Acquisition [Line Items]  
Intangible assets $ 12
v3.25.0.1
Post-employment benefits for associates - Additional information (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]      
Weighted average duration of defined benefit obligation (in years) 12 years 12 years 4 months 24 days  
Defined contribution plans charges $ 153 $ 151 $ 144
Other post-employment benefit plans      
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]      
Expected rate of pension increase  
Pension plans      
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]      
Expected rate of pension increase 1.00% 1.10%  
Benefit obligation      
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]      
Top four countries (as a percent) 87.00%    
Benefit obligation | United States | Other post-employment benefit plans      
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]      
Associates covered (as a percent) 98.00%    
v3.25.0.1
Post-employment benefits for associates - Summary of funded and unfunded DBO and net liability (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Pension plans    
Reconciliation of Asset or Liability of Defined Benefit Plan [Roll Forward]    
Net defined benefit obligation (asset) at beginning of period $ 215 $ 167
Current service cost 16 16
Interest cost (income) 7 6
Administrative expenses 1 2
Currency translation effects (10) 6
Employer contributions 23 31
Net defined benefit obligation (asset) at end of period 192 215
Funded status (162) (190)
Limitation on recognition of fund surplus at January 1 (25) (21)
Change in limitation on recognition of fund surplus (8) (4)
Currency translation effects 3 0
Limitation on recognition of fund surplus at December 31 (30) (25)
Pension plans | Benefit obligation    
Reconciliation of Asset or Liability of Defined Benefit Plan [Roll Forward]    
Net defined benefit obligation (asset) at beginning of period 638 563
Current service cost 16 16
Interest cost (income) 18 20
Past service costs and settlements 0 (1)
Administrative expenses 1 2
Remeasurement (gains)/losses arising from changes in financial assumptions (14) 46
Remeasurement (gains) arising from changes in demographic assumptions 0 (2)
Remeasurement losses/(gains) arising from experience-related changes 5 16
Currency translation effects (30) 22
Benefit payments (47) (49)
Contributions of associates 5 5
Net defined benefit obligation (asset) at end of period 592 638
Pension plans | Plan assets    
Reconciliation of Asset or Liability of Defined Benefit Plan [Roll Forward]    
Net defined benefit obligation (asset) at beginning of period (448) (417)
Interest cost (income) (11) (14)
Return on plan assets excluding interest income 13 15
Currency translation effects 23 (16)
Employer contributions 23 31
Settlements 0 (1)
Benefit payments (47) (49)
Contributions of associates 5 5
Net defined benefit obligation (asset) at end of period (430) (448)
Other post-employment benefit plans    
Reconciliation of Asset or Liability of Defined Benefit Plan [Roll Forward]    
Net defined benefit obligation (asset) at beginning of period 213 221
Current service cost 5 5
Interest cost (income) 10 11
Administrative expenses 0 0
Currency translation effects 0 0
Employer contributions 15 14
Net defined benefit obligation (asset) at end of period 208 213
Funded status (208) (213)
Change in limitation on recognition of fund surplus 0 0
Other post-employment benefit plans | Benefit obligation    
Reconciliation of Asset or Liability of Defined Benefit Plan [Roll Forward]    
Net defined benefit obligation (asset) at beginning of period 213 221
Current service cost 5 5
Interest cost (income) 10 11
Past service costs and settlements 0 0
Administrative expenses 0 0
Remeasurement (gains)/losses arising from changes in financial assumptions (6) 6
Remeasurement (gains) arising from changes in demographic assumptions 0 0
Remeasurement losses/(gains) arising from experience-related changes 1 (16)
Currency translation effects 0 0
Benefit payments (19) (18)
Contributions of associates 4 4
Net defined benefit obligation (asset) at end of period 208 213
Other post-employment benefit plans | Plan assets    
Reconciliation of Asset or Liability of Defined Benefit Plan [Roll Forward]    
Net defined benefit obligation (asset) at beginning of period 0 0
Interest cost (income) 0 0
Return on plan assets excluding interest income 0 0
Currency translation effects 0 0
Employer contributions 15 14
Settlements 0 0
Benefit payments (19) (18)
Contributions of associates 4 4
Net defined benefit obligation (asset) at end of period $ 0 $ 0
v3.25.0.1
Post-employment benefits for associates - Reconciliation of net liability (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Pension plans    
Reconciliation of Definted Benefit Liability [Roll Forward]    
Net defined benefit liability at beginning of period $ (215) $ (167)
Current service cost (16) (16)
Net interest expense (7) (6)
Administrative expenses (1) (2)
Remeasurements 22 (45)
Currency translation effects 10 (6)
Employer contributions 23 31
Change in limitation on recognition of fund surplus (8) (4)
Net defined benefit liability at end of period (192) (215)
Pension plans | Prepaid benefit cost    
Reconciliation of Definted Benefit Liability [Roll Forward]    
Net defined benefit liability at beginning of period 6  
Net defined benefit liability at end of period 6 6
Pension plans | Accrued benefit liability    
Reconciliation of Definted Benefit Liability [Roll Forward]    
Net defined benefit liability at beginning of period (221)  
Net defined benefit liability at end of period (198) (221)
Other post-employment benefit plans    
Reconciliation of Definted Benefit Liability [Roll Forward]    
Net defined benefit liability at beginning of period (213) (221)
Current service cost (5) (5)
Net interest expense (10) (11)
Administrative expenses 0 0
Remeasurements 5 10
Currency translation effects 0 0
Employer contributions 15 14
Change in limitation on recognition of fund surplus 0 0
Net defined benefit liability at end of period (208) (213)
Other post-employment benefit plans | Prepaid benefit cost    
Reconciliation of Definted Benefit Liability [Roll Forward]    
Net defined benefit liability at beginning of period 0  
Net defined benefit liability at end of period 0 0
Other post-employment benefit plans | Accrued benefit liability    
Reconciliation of Definted Benefit Liability [Roll Forward]    
Net defined benefit liability at beginning of period (213)  
Net defined benefit liability at end of period $ (208) $ (213)
v3.25.0.1
Post-employment benefits for associates - Breakdown of DBO for pension plans by geography and type of member (Details) - Pension plans - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Disclosure of net defined benefit liability (asset) [line items]    
Defined benefit obligation, at present value $ (592) $ (638)
Prepaid benefit costs and assets subject to limitation on recognition of fund surplus (36) (31)
Fair value of plan assets 430 448
Funded status (162) (190)
Unfunded plans    
Disclosure of net defined benefit liability (asset) [line items]    
Defined benefit obligation, at present value (84) (88)
Unfunded portion of funded plans    
Disclosure of net defined benefit liability (asset) [line items]    
Defined benefit obligation, at present value (114) (133)
Active    
Disclosure of net defined benefit liability (asset) [line items]    
Defined benefit obligation, at present value (368) (399)
Deferred pensioners    
Disclosure of net defined benefit liability (asset) [line items]    
Defined benefit obligation, at present value (93) (104)
Pensioners    
Disclosure of net defined benefit liability (asset) [line items]    
Defined benefit obligation, at present value (131) (135)
Country of domicile | Switzerland    
Disclosure of net defined benefit liability (asset) [line items]    
Defined benefit obligation, at present value (267) (282)
Prepaid benefit costs and assets subject to limitation on recognition of fund surplus 0 0
Fair value of plan assets 181 191
Funded status (86) (91)
Country of domicile | Switzerland | Unfunded plans    
Disclosure of net defined benefit liability (asset) [line items]    
Defined benefit obligation, at present value (43) (49)
Country of domicile | Switzerland | Unfunded portion of funded plans    
Disclosure of net defined benefit liability (asset) [line items]    
Defined benefit obligation, at present value (43) (42)
Country of domicile | Switzerland | Active    
Disclosure of net defined benefit liability (asset) [line items]    
Defined benefit obligation, at present value (226) (241)
Country of domicile | Switzerland | Deferred pensioners    
Disclosure of net defined benefit liability (asset) [line items]    
Defined benefit obligation, at present value (8) (8)
Country of domicile | Switzerland | Pensioners    
Disclosure of net defined benefit liability (asset) [line items]    
Defined benefit obligation, at present value (33) (33)
Foreign countries | United States    
Disclosure of net defined benefit liability (asset) [line items]    
Defined benefit obligation, at present value (92) (99)
Prepaid benefit costs and assets subject to limitation on recognition of fund surplus 0 0
Fair value of plan assets 70 74
Funded status (22) (25)
Foreign countries | United States | Unfunded plans    
Disclosure of net defined benefit liability (asset) [line items]    
Defined benefit obligation, at present value (21) (22)
Foreign countries | United States | Unfunded portion of funded plans    
Disclosure of net defined benefit liability (asset) [line items]    
Defined benefit obligation, at present value (1) (3)
Foreign countries | United States | Active    
Disclosure of net defined benefit liability (asset) [line items]    
Defined benefit obligation, at present value (25) (31)
Foreign countries | United States | Deferred pensioners    
Disclosure of net defined benefit liability (asset) [line items]    
Defined benefit obligation, at present value (29) (31)
Foreign countries | United States | Pensioners    
Disclosure of net defined benefit liability (asset) [line items]    
Defined benefit obligation, at present value (38) (37)
Foreign countries | Germany    
Disclosure of net defined benefit liability (asset) [line items]    
Defined benefit obligation, at present value (84) (93)
Prepaid benefit costs and assets subject to limitation on recognition of fund surplus 0 0
Fair value of plan assets 21 19
Funded status (63) (74)
Foreign countries | Germany | Unfunded plans    
Disclosure of net defined benefit liability (asset) [line items]    
Defined benefit obligation, at present value 0 0
Foreign countries | Germany | Unfunded portion of funded plans    
Disclosure of net defined benefit liability (asset) [line items]    
Defined benefit obligation, at present value (63) (74)
Foreign countries | Germany | Active    
Disclosure of net defined benefit liability (asset) [line items]    
Defined benefit obligation, at present value (42) (47)
Foreign countries | Germany | Deferred pensioners    
Disclosure of net defined benefit liability (asset) [line items]    
Defined benefit obligation, at present value (16) (19)
Foreign countries | Germany | Pensioners    
Disclosure of net defined benefit liability (asset) [line items]    
Defined benefit obligation, at present value (26) (27)
Foreign countries | United Kingdom    
Disclosure of net defined benefit liability (asset) [line items]    
Defined benefit obligation, at present value (53) (62)
Prepaid benefit costs and assets subject to limitation on recognition of fund surplus (4) (5)
Fair value of plan assets 57 67
Funded status 4 5
Foreign countries | United Kingdom | Unfunded plans    
Disclosure of net defined benefit liability (asset) [line items]    
Defined benefit obligation, at present value 0 0
Foreign countries | United Kingdom | Unfunded portion of funded plans    
Disclosure of net defined benefit liability (asset) [line items]    
Defined benefit obligation, at present value 0 0
Foreign countries | United Kingdom | Active    
Disclosure of net defined benefit liability (asset) [line items]    
Defined benefit obligation, at present value 0 0
Foreign countries | United Kingdom | Deferred pensioners    
Disclosure of net defined benefit liability (asset) [line items]    
Defined benefit obligation, at present value (26) (31)
Foreign countries | United Kingdom | Pensioners    
Disclosure of net defined benefit liability (asset) [line items]    
Defined benefit obligation, at present value (27) (31)
Foreign countries | Rest of the world    
Disclosure of net defined benefit liability (asset) [line items]    
Defined benefit obligation, at present value (96) (102)
Prepaid benefit costs and assets subject to limitation on recognition of fund surplus (32) (26)
Fair value of plan assets 101 97
Funded status 5 (5)
Foreign countries | Rest of the world | Unfunded plans    
Disclosure of net defined benefit liability (asset) [line items]    
Defined benefit obligation, at present value (20) (17)
Foreign countries | Rest of the world | Unfunded portion of funded plans    
Disclosure of net defined benefit liability (asset) [line items]    
Defined benefit obligation, at present value (7) (14)
Foreign countries | Rest of the world | Active    
Disclosure of net defined benefit liability (asset) [line items]    
Defined benefit obligation, at present value (75) (80)
Foreign countries | Rest of the world | Deferred pensioners    
Disclosure of net defined benefit liability (asset) [line items]    
Defined benefit obligation, at present value (14) (15)
Foreign countries | Rest of the world | Pensioners    
Disclosure of net defined benefit liability (asset) [line items]    
Defined benefit obligation, at present value $ (7) $ (7)
v3.25.0.1
Post-employment benefits for associates - Weighted average actuarial assumptions (Details)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Pension plans    
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]    
Discount rate 3.20% 3.00%
Expected rate of pension increase 1.00% 1.10%
Expected rate of salary increase 2.60% 2.70%
Interest on savings account 2.00% 2.20%
Current average life expectancy for a 65-year-old male (in years) 20 years 20 years
Current average life expectancy for a 65-year-old female (in years) 22 years 22 years
Pension plans | Switzerland | Country of domicile    
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]    
Discount rate 1.60% 1.90%
Pension plans | United States | Foreign countries    
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]    
Discount rate 5.40% 5.00%
Pension plans | Germany | Foreign countries    
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]    
Discount rate 3.50% 3.10%
Pension plans | United Kingdom | Foreign countries    
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]    
Discount rate 5.50% 4.50%
Other post-employment benefit plans    
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]    
Discount rate 5.50% 5.00%
Expected rate of pension increase
Expected rate of salary increase
Interest on savings account
Current average life expectancy for a 65-year-old male (in years) 21 years 21 years
Current average life expectancy for a 65-year-old female (in years) 23 years 23 years
Other post-employment benefit plans | United States | Foreign countries    
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]    
Discount rate 5.50% 5.00%
v3.25.0.1
Post-employment benefits for associates - Sensitivity analysis (Details)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
USD ($)
Discount rate  
Disclosure of sensitivity analysis for actuarial assumptions [line items]  
Percentage of reasonably possible increase in actuarial assumption 0.25%
Percentage of reasonably possible decrease in actuarial assumption 0.25%
Increase (decrease) in defined benefit obligation due to increase in actuarial assumption $ (23)
Increase (decrease) in defined benefit obligation due to decrease in actuarial assumption $ 25
Life expectancy  
Disclosure of sensitivity analysis for actuarial assumptions [line items]  
Actuarial assumption of life expectancy after retirement 1 year
Increase (decrease) in defined benefit obligation due to increase in actuarial assumption $ 12
Rate of pension increase  
Disclosure of sensitivity analysis for actuarial assumptions [line items]  
Percentage of reasonably possible increase in actuarial assumption 0.25%
Percentage of reasonably possible decrease in actuarial assumption 0.25%
Increase (decrease) in defined benefit obligation due to increase in actuarial assumption $ 8
Increase (decrease) in defined benefit obligation due to decrease in actuarial assumption $ (4)
Interest on savings account  
Disclosure of sensitivity analysis for actuarial assumptions [line items]  
Percentage of reasonably possible increase in actuarial assumption 0.25%
Percentage of reasonably possible decrease in actuarial assumption 0.25%
Increase (decrease) in defined benefit obligation due to increase in actuarial assumption $ 3
Increase (decrease) in defined benefit obligation due to decrease in actuarial assumption $ (3)
Rate of salary increase  
Disclosure of sensitivity analysis for actuarial assumptions [line items]  
Percentage of reasonably possible increase in actuarial assumption 0.25%
Percentage of reasonably possible decrease in actuarial assumption 0.25%
Increase (decrease) in defined benefit obligation due to increase in actuarial assumption $ 3
Increase (decrease) in defined benefit obligation due to decrease in actuarial assumption $ (3)
v3.25.0.1
Post-employment benefits for associates - Healthcare cost trend rate assumptions used for other post-employment benefits (Details) - Other post-employment benefit plans
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]      
Healthcare cost trend rate assumed for next year 7.00% 6.00% 6.30%
Rate to which the cost trend rate is assumed to decline 4.50% 4.50% 4.50%
v3.25.0.1
Post-employment benefits for associates - Weighted average plan asset allocation (Details) - Pension plans
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Disclosure of fair value of plan assets [line items]    
Equity securities, allocation percentage 33.00% 33.00%
Debt securities, allocation percentage 40.00% 41.00%
Real estate, allocation percentage 11.00% 11.00%
Alternative investments, allocation percentage 13.00% 13.00%
Cash and other investments, allocation percentage 3.00% 2.00%
Total, allocation percentage 100.00% 100.00%
Long-term target minimum    
Disclosure of fair value of plan assets [line items]    
Equity securities, target 15.00%  
Debt securities, target 20.00%  
Real estate, target 5.00%  
Alternative investments, target 0.00%  
Cash and other investments, target 0.00%  
Long-term target maximum    
Disclosure of fair value of plan assets [line items]    
Equity securities, target 40.00%  
Debt securities, target 60.00%  
Real estate, target 20.00%  
Alternative investments, target 20.00%  
Cash and other investments, target 15.00%  
v3.25.0.1
Post-employment benefits for associates - Schedule of expected future cash flows (Details)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
USD ($)
Pension plans  
Employer contributions  
2025 (estimated) $ 10
Pension plans | 2025  
Expected future benefit payments  
Settlements 38
Pension plans | 2026  
Expected future benefit payments  
Settlements 34
Pension plans | 2027  
Expected future benefit payments  
Settlements 35
Pension plans | 2028  
Expected future benefit payments  
Settlements 35
Pension plans | 2029  
Expected future benefit payments  
Settlements 38
Pension plans | 2030-2034  
Expected future benefit payments  
Settlements 200
Other post-employment benefit plans  
Employer contributions  
2025 (estimated) 0
Other post-employment benefit plans | 2025  
Expected future benefit payments  
Settlements 16
Other post-employment benefit plans | 2026  
Expected future benefit payments  
Settlements 18
Other post-employment benefit plans | 2027  
Expected future benefit payments  
Settlements 19
Other post-employment benefit plans | 2028  
Expected future benefit payments  
Settlements 20
Other post-employment benefit plans | 2029  
Expected future benefit payments  
Settlements 20
Other post-employment benefit plans | 2030-2034  
Expected future benefit payments  
Settlements $ 93
v3.25.0.1
Equity-based compensation - Additional information (Details)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
USD ($)
metric
Dec. 31, 2023
USD ($)
Dec. 31, 2022
USD ($)
Disclosure of terms and conditions of share-based payment arrangement [line items]      
Equity-based compensation expense $ 162 $ 159 $ 152
Accrued equity-based payments $ 11 $ 13  
Remaining weighted-average vesting period (in years) 1 year 3 months 18 days    
Long-term Incentive Plan      
Disclosure of terms and conditions of share-based payment arrangement [line items]      
Vesting period (in years) 3 years    
Number of metrics | metric 4    
Swiss Employee Share Ownership Plan and Other Share Savings Plans      
Disclosure of terms and conditions of share-based payment arrangement [line items]      
Holding period (in years) 3 years    
Minimum | Long-term Incentive Plan      
Disclosure of terms and conditions of share-based payment arrangement [line items]      
Target incentive (as a percent) 35.00%    
Payout (as a percent) 0.00%    
Maximum | Long-term Incentive Plan      
Disclosure of terms and conditions of share-based payment arrangement [line items]      
Target incentive (as a percent) 575.00%    
Payout (as a percent) 200.00%    
v3.25.0.1
Equity-based compensation - Summary of non-vested share movements (Details)
$ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
USD ($)
shares
$ / shares
Dec. 31, 2023
USD ($)
shares
$ / shares
Number of shares    
Unvested shares (in shares) | shares 4,942 4,793
Vested (in shares) | shares (1,902) (1,985)
Forfeited (in shares) | shares (204) (191)
Unvested shares (in shares) | shares 5,167 4,942
Weighted average fair value at grant date    
Outstanding, beginning balance, weighted average fair value at grant date (in dollars per share) | $ / shares $ 71.82 $ 69.16
Vested, weighted average fair value at grant date (in dollars per share) | $ / shares 73.76 65.70
Forfeited, weighted average fair value at grant date (in dollars per share) | $ / shares 75.72 73.66
Outstanding, ending balance, weighted average fair value at grant date (in dollars per share) | $ / shares $ 74.63 $ 71.82
Fair value at grant date    
Fair value, beginning balance, unvested | $ $ 355 $ 331
Fair value, vested | $ (140) (130)
Fair value, forfeited | $ (15) (14)
Fair value, ending balance, unvested | $ $ 386 $ 355
Restricted awards    
Number of shares    
Granted (in shares) | shares 1,560 1,627
Weighted average fair value at grant date    
Granted, weighted average fair value at grant date (in dollars per share) | $ / shares $ 80.95 $ 72.30
Fair value at grant date    
Fair value, granted | $ $ 126 $ 118
Performance awards    
Number of shares    
Granted (in shares) | shares 771 698
Weighted average fair value at grant date    
Granted, weighted average fair value at grant date (in dollars per share) | $ / shares $ 77.99 $ 72.06
Fair value at grant date    
Fair value, granted | $ $ 60 $ 50
v3.25.0.1
Equity-based compensation - Summary of shares authorized (Details)
shares in Thousands
Dec. 31, 2024
shares
Disclosure of terms and conditions of share-based payment arrangement [line items]  
Authorized shares (in shares) 22,250
Long-term Incentive Plan  
Disclosure of terms and conditions of share-based payment arrangement [line items]  
Authorized shares (in shares) 20,000
Deferred Bonus Stock Plan  
Disclosure of terms and conditions of share-based payment arrangement [line items]  
Authorized shares (in shares) 1,500
Swiss Employee Share Ownership Plan  
Disclosure of terms and conditions of share-based payment arrangement [line items]  
Authorized shares (in shares) 475
Other share savings plans  
Disclosure of terms and conditions of share-based payment arrangement [line items]  
Authorized shares (in shares) 275
v3.25.0.1
Related parties transactions - Key management compensation (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Related Party [Abstract]      
Cash and other compensation $ 24.4 $ 20.1 $ 18.7
Post-employment benefits 2.9 1.1 0.9
Equity-based compensation 22.5 23.1 22.4
Total $ 49.8 $ 44.3 $ 42.0
v3.25.0.1
Related parties transactions - Additional information (Details)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
USD ($)
associated_company
Dec. 31, 2023
USD ($)
Disclosure of associates [line items]    
Number of investments in associated companies | associated_company 3  
Long-term convertible notes due from an associated companies $ 11 $ 11
Other payments and payables to associated companies $ 2 $ 3
Associate One    
Disclosure of associates [line items]    
Proportion of ownership interest in associate 40.30%  
Associate Two    
Disclosure of associates [line items]    
Proportion of ownership interest in associate 20.00%  
Associate Three    
Disclosure of associates [line items]    
Proportion of ownership interest in associate 8.80%  
v3.25.0.1
Related parties transactions - Investments in associated companies (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Related Party [Abstract]      
Investments in associates accounted for using equity method $ 293 $ 10 $ 0
Investments accounted for using equity method [abstract]      
Beginning balance 10 0  
Purchases 159 10 0
Transfer from Financial assets 132 0  
Share of (loss) from associated companies recognized in Consolidated Income Statement (8) 0 0
Ending balance $ 293 $ 10 $ 0
v3.25.0.1
Commitments and contingencies (Details)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2024
USD ($)
Disclosure of contingent liabilities [line items]  
Total $ 119
2025  
Disclosure of contingent liabilities [line items]  
Total 29
2026  
Disclosure of contingent liabilities [line items]  
Total 10
2027  
Disclosure of contingent liabilities [line items]  
Total 6
2028  
Disclosure of contingent liabilities [line items]  
Total 5
2029  
Disclosure of contingent liabilities [line items]  
Total 0
Thereafter  
Disclosure of contingent liabilities [line items]  
Total $ 69
v3.25.0.1
Subsequent events (Details)
$ in Millions
Feb. 25, 2025
USD ($)
Feb. 25, 2025
USD ($)
SFr / shares
Forecast    
Disclosure of non-adjusting events after reporting period [line items]    
Equity interest in associated company (greater than) 50.00%  
Potential ordinary share transactions    
Disclosure of non-adjusting events after reporting period [line items]    
Share repurchase program, authorized amount $ 750 $ 750
Share repurchase program, term 3 years  
Dividends declared (in CHF per share) | SFr / shares   $ 0.28
Dividends declared, amount $ 155  
v3.25.0.1
Alcon subsidiaries and associated companies (Details)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
USD ($)
associated_company
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]  
Total asset and net sales threshold | $ $ 5
Number of investments in associated companies | associated_company 3
Alcon Laboratorios Argentina S.A.  
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]  
Proportion of voting rights held in subsidiary (as a percent) 100.00%
Alcon Laboratories (Australia) Pty Ltd  
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]  
Proportion of voting rights held in subsidiary (as a percent) 100.00%
Alcon Ophthalmika GmbH  
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]  
Proportion of voting rights held in subsidiary (as a percent) 100.00%
Alcon Laboratories Belgium BVBA  
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]  
Proportion of voting rights held in subsidiary (as a percent) 100.00%
Alcon NV  
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]  
Proportion of voting rights held in subsidiary (as a percent) 100.00%
Alcon Brasil Cuidados com a Saúde Ltda.  
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]  
Proportion of voting rights held in subsidiary (as a percent) 100.00%
Alcon Canada Inc.  
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]  
Proportion of voting rights held in subsidiary (as a percent) 100.00%
Aerie Pharmaceuticals Limited  
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]  
Proportion of voting rights held in subsidiary (as a percent) 100.00%
Alcon Laboratorios Chile Ltd.  
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]  
Proportion of voting rights held in subsidiary (as a percent) 100.00%
Alcon (China) Ophthalmic Product Co., Ltd.  
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]  
Proportion of voting rights held in subsidiary (as a percent) 100.00%
Alcon Hong Kong Limited  
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]  
Proportion of voting rights held in subsidiary (as a percent) 100.00%
Laboratorios Alcon de Colombia S.A.  
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]  
Proportion of voting rights held in subsidiary (as a percent) 100.00%
Alcon Pharmaceuticals (Czech Republic) s.r.o.  
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]  
Proportion of voting rights held in subsidiary (as a percent) 100.00%
Alcon Nordic A/S  
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]  
Proportion of voting rights held in subsidiary (as a percent) 100.00%
AlconLab Ecuador S.A.  
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]  
Proportion of voting rights held in subsidiary (as a percent) 100.00%
Laboratoires Alcon S.A.S.  
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]  
Proportion of voting rights held in subsidiary (as a percent) 100.00%
Alcon Deutschland GmbH  
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]  
Proportion of voting rights held in subsidiary (as a percent) 100.00%
CIBA Vision GmbH  
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]  
Proportion of voting rights held in subsidiary (as a percent) 100.00%
WaveLight GmbH  
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]  
Proportion of voting rights held in subsidiary (as a percent) 100.00%
Alcon Laboratories Hellas- Single Member Commercial and Industrial S.A.C.I.  
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]  
Proportion of voting rights held in subsidiary (as a percent) 100.00%
Alcon Hungary Pharmaceuticals Trading Limited Liability Company  
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]  
Proportion of voting rights held in subsidiary (as a percent) 100.00%
Alcon Laboratories (India) Private Limited  
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]  
Proportion of voting rights held in subsidiary (as a percent) 100.00%
PT. CIBA Vision Batam  
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]  
Proportion of voting rights held in subsidiary (as a percent) 100.00%
Alcon Laboratories Ireland Limited  
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]  
Proportion of voting rights held in subsidiary (as a percent) 100.00%
Aerie Pharmaceuticals Ireland Limited  
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]  
Proportion of voting rights held in subsidiary (as a percent) 100.00%
BELKIN Vision Ltd.  
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]  
Proportion of voting rights held in subsidiary (as a percent) 100.00%
Alcon Italia S.p.A.  
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]  
Proportion of voting rights held in subsidiary (as a percent) 100.00%
Alcon Japan Ltd.  
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]  
Proportion of voting rights held in subsidiary (as a percent) 100.00%
Alcon Laboratories (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd.  
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]  
Proportion of voting rights held in subsidiary (as a percent) 100.00%
CIBA Vision Johor Sdn. Bhd.  
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]  
Proportion of voting rights held in subsidiary (as a percent) 100.00%
Alcon Laboratorios, S.A. de C.V.  
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]  
Proportion of voting rights held in subsidiary (as a percent) 100.00%
Alcon Finance B.V.  
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]  
Proportion of voting rights held in subsidiary (as a percent) 100.00%
Alcon Nederland B.V.  
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]  
Proportion of voting rights held in subsidiary (as a percent) 100.00%
Alcon Laboratories (New Zealand) Ltd.  
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]  
Proportion of voting rights held in subsidiary (as a percent) 100.00%
Alcon Centroamerica S.A.  
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]  
Proportion of voting rights held in subsidiary (as a percent) 100.00%
Alcon Pharmaceutical del Peru S.A.  
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]  
Proportion of voting rights held in subsidiary (as a percent) 100.00%
Alcon Laboratories (Philippines), Inc.  
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]  
Proportion of voting rights held in subsidiary (as a percent) 100.00%
Alcon Polska Sp. z o.o.  
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]  
Proportion of voting rights held in subsidiary (as a percent) 100.00%
Alcon Portugal-Produtos e Equipamentos Oftalmológicos Lda.  
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]  
Proportion of voting rights held in subsidiary (as a percent) 100.00%
Alcon (Puerto Rico), Inc.  
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]  
Proportion of voting rights held in subsidiary (as a percent) 100.00%
Alcon Romania S.R.L.  
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]  
Proportion of voting rights held in subsidiary (as a percent) 100.00%
Alcon Farmacevtika LLC  
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]  
Proportion of voting rights held in subsidiary (as a percent) 100.00%
Alcon Pte Ltd  
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]  
Proportion of voting rights held in subsidiary (as a percent) 100.00%
Alcon Singapore Manufacturing Pte Ltd  
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]  
Proportion of voting rights held in subsidiary (as a percent) 100.00%
CIBA Vision Asian Manufacturing and Logistics Pte Ltd.  
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]  
Proportion of voting rights held in subsidiary (as a percent) 100.00%
Alcon Laboratories (South Africa) (Pty) Ltd.  
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]  
Proportion of voting rights held in subsidiary (as a percent) 100.00%
Alcon Korea Ltd.  
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]  
Proportion of voting rights held in subsidiary (as a percent) 100.00%
Alcon Healthcare S.A.  
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]  
Proportion of voting rights held in subsidiary (as a percent) 100.00%
Alcon Grieshaber AG  
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]  
Proportion of voting rights held in subsidiary (as a percent) 100.00%
Alcon Management SA  
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]  
Proportion of voting rights held in subsidiary (as a percent) 100.00%
Alcon Pharmaceuticals Ltd.  
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]  
Proportion of voting rights held in subsidiary (as a percent) 100.00%
Alcon Services AG  
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]  
Proportion of voting rights held in subsidiary (as a percent) 100.00%
Alcon Switzerland SA  
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]  
Proportion of voting rights held in subsidiary (as a percent) 100.00%
Alcon Laboratories (Thailand) Limited  
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]  
Proportion of voting rights held in subsidiary (as a percent) 100.00%
Alcon Laboratuvarlari Ticaret A.S.  
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]  
Proportion of voting rights held in subsidiary (as a percent) 100.00%
Alcon Ukraine LLC  
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]  
Proportion of voting rights held in subsidiary (as a percent) 100.00%
Alcon Eye Care UK Limited  
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]  
Proportion of voting rights held in subsidiary (as a percent) 100.00%
Aerie Distribution, Inc.  
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]  
Proportion of voting rights held in subsidiary (as a percent) 100.00%
Aerie Pharmaceuticals, Inc.  
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]  
Proportion of voting rights held in subsidiary (as a percent) 100.00%
Alcon Finance Corporation  
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]  
Proportion of voting rights held in subsidiary (as a percent) 100.00%
Alcon Laboratories, Inc.  
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]  
Proportion of voting rights held in subsidiary (as a percent) 100.00%
Alcon RefractiveHorizons, LLC  
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]  
Proportion of voting rights held in subsidiary (as a percent) 100.00%
Alcon Research, LLC  
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]  
Proportion of voting rights held in subsidiary (as a percent) 100.00%
Alcon Vision, LLC  
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]  
Proportion of voting rights held in subsidiary (as a percent) 100.00%
CIBA Vision, LLC  
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]  
Proportion of voting rights held in subsidiary (as a percent) 100.00%
WaveLight, Inc.  
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]  
Proportion of voting rights held in subsidiary (as a percent) 100.00%
Ivantis, Inc.  
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]  
Proportion of voting rights held in subsidiary (as a percent) 100.00%
MDBackline, Inc.  
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]  
Proportion of voting rights held in subsidiary (as a percent) 100.00%
PowerVision, Inc.  
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]  
Proportion of voting rights held in subsidiary (as a percent) 100.00%
Tear Film Innovations, Inc.  
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]  
Proportion of voting rights held in subsidiary (as a percent) 100.00%
TrueVision Systems, Inc.  
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]  
Proportion of voting rights held in subsidiary (as a percent) 100.00%
Alcon Laboratorios Uruguay S.A.  
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]  
Proportion of voting rights held in subsidiary (as a percent) 100.00%