The global ophthalmic drugs market is projected to reach US$41.88 billion in 2026 and grow at 7.9% CAGR through 2036, driven by biologic innovation, anti-VEGF therapies, AI-enabled diagnostics, and long-acting drug delivery systems. Key developments include expanded digital distribution channels and sustained-release implants reducing treatment burden for retinal disorders.

Nicox announced positive Phase 3 data for NCX 470, a nitric oxide-donating bimatoprost eye drop, presented at the American Glaucoma Society 2026 congress. The drug demonstrated intraocular pressure (IOP) reduction up to 10 mmHg, meeting efficacy requirements for U.S. and China regulatory approvals. NCX 470 showed superior IOP reduction compared to latanoprost at three of six measurement points and demonstrated a favorable safety profile with low treatment discontinuation rates.

Nicox announced that Phase 3 study results for NCX 470, a nitric oxide-donating bimatoprost eye drop for glaucoma treatment, will be presented at the American Glaucoma Society annual congress in February 2026, including two oral presentations. The company is preparing regulatory submissions for NCX 470 in the United States and China with licensed partners Kowa and Ocumension Therapeutics.

Nicox SA announced its participation in major ophthalmology, finance, and industry conferences during the first half of 2026, including the American Glaucoma Society Annual Congress in February. The company will present key data from its Denali and Whistler studies on NCX 470, its lead clinical program for treating glaucoma and ocular hypertension.

Nicox SA announced its participation in multiple key ophthalmology and financial conferences in the first half of 2026, including the American Glaucoma Society Annual Meeting in February where it will present multiple data presentations on NCX 470 from the Denali and Whistler studies. The company will also attend investor conferences and industry events across Europe and the U.S., with management available for one-on-one meetings.

The global contact lens market is projected to grow from USD 18.88 billion in 2025 to USD 26.64 billion by 2033, expanding at a CAGR of 4.42%. Growth is driven by rising myopia prevalence, increasing adoption of disposable lenses, and technological advancements in silicone hydrogel materials. However, risks from eye infections and user discomfort may hinder expansion. The U.S. market leads North America with expected growth to USD 6.83 billion by 2033.

The global LASIK eye surgery market is projected to grow from USD 2.25 billion in 2025 to USD 3.77 billion by 2033, at a CAGR of 6.68%. Growth is driven by rising refractive disorders, AI-enabled surgical innovations, and expanding healthcare infrastructure. However, concerns over long-term safety complications such as corneal thinning and dry eye are limiting adoption. Asia-Pacific is the fastest-growing region, while North America dominates with 44.26% market share.

The global intraocular lens market is projected to grow from USD 5.97 billion in 2025 to USD 9.85 billion by 2033, driven by rising cataract prevalence, aging populations, and advanced lens technologies. However, high costs of premium lenses and limited accessibility in developing regions remain key challenges. North America leads the market with 38.61% share, while Asia Pacific is expected to witness the fastest growth at 7.03% CAGR.

DSC Meridian Capital fully exited its entire stake in Bausch + Lomb during Q3, selling 510,090 shares worth approximately $6.6 million, amid the company's 9% stock price decline over the past year.

Silver Point Capital initiated a new $38.7 million stake in Bausch + Lomb, representing 2.8% of its U.S. equity portfolio. Despite being 16% below its IPO price, the company showed 7% revenue growth in Q3 and maintains operational stability.

Browning West, a major shareholder, criticized Cooper Companies for underperformance, weak governance, and misaligned capital allocation strategies across its CooperVision and CooperSurgical divisions.

Alcon reported Q3 sales of $2.59 billion, slightly missing consensus but beating earnings expectations. The company saw strong growth in surgical and vision care segments, with promising new technologies like Unity VCS and PanOptix Pro.