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Significant transactions (Details 2) - USD ($) $ in Millions |  | 12 Months Ended |
--- | --- | --- | ---
Apr. 08, 2019 | Dec. 31, 2019 | Mar. 31, 2019
Disclosure of detailed information about business combination [line items] |  |  |
Gain on distribution of Alcon Inc. to Novartis AG shareholders | $ 4,691 | $ 4,691 |
Discontinued operations |  |  |
Disclosure of detailed information about business combination [line items] |  |  |
Net assets derecognized | (20,025) |  |
Derecognition of distribution liability | 23,434 |  |
Difference between net assets and distribution liability | 3,409 |  |
Distribution of dividend to dividend bearing shares | 1,273 |  |
Cumulative currency translation gains/losses recycled through income statement | 123 |  |
Transaction costs recognized in the consolidated income statement | $ (114) |  |
Gain on distribution of Alcon Inc. to Novartis AG shareholders |  | $ 4,691 |
Alcon | Discontinued operations |  |  |
Disclosure of detailed information about business combination [line items] |  |  |
Derecognition of distribution liability |  |  | $ 26,400

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