Abbott LabsABTHOLDMay 12, 2026Stock price when the opinion was issued
As of Jun 03, 2026. Market Open.
Is a growing business (diagnostics and devices) given demographics. Organic growth is a solid 10%. They just announced a serious acquisition but won't be accretive for a few years, and they lost some market share and higher costs, but there are signs the company has turned a corner. Has usually traded at 23x PE, but is 18x today. Strong balance sheet.
(Analysts’ price target is $132.15)It is in a very difficult space like Biotech. It dropped 10% in a day after the earnings report and continued its downward trend after a small rally. It is very weak now and hitting new lows that haven't been seen in a while. It is technically negative so be cautious. He thinks there is more downside.
Acquisition announced earlier this month looks really attractive, and would also allow targeted cancer treatments. Paid more (north of $20B) for that purchase, so it won't be accretive until a few years out. Stock went down on that. Financing the acquisition internally with debt and cashflow. Over time will be accretive, and gives them a new platform for growth.
High single-digit organic growth in its underlying businesses. PE is really attractive at a bit over 20x, but doesn't represent the true growth of the business. Yield is 1.99%.
Diversified, global. Medical devices, diagnostics, branded generics in emerging countries, and nutritionals. Used huge boost from Covid to invest in R&D. Lots of product launches coming out. Topline usually grows high-single digits, and earnings double digits -- well set up to do that. Increased dividend 53 consecutive years. Yield is 1.88%.
(Analysts’ price target is $143.93)A diversified medical equipment company, including portable diagnostics, critical care in ambulances, and remote care. They made big acquisitions a few years ago. Is a safe way to play the health space recovery. Pharma is established and nutrition (Ensure) which are slower-growth, but provide stability and cash flow.
(Analysts’ price target is $141.89)Diversified. Over 60% of sales come from outside US, so a more globally balanced name in the sector. 10/10 on fundamentals. Medical devices division has had 10 straight quarters of 10+% growth with momentum in epilepsy, diabetes, and heart failure. Focusing on growing its core lab-testing platform and expanding diagnostic footprint in non-Covid areas.
Steady margins, no change to full-year earnings guidance. Trades at a premium, but stronger ROI forecast. Sees upside potential of ~14% from here. Yield is 1.91%.
The past year has been trying. She doesn't believe there is no more growth or demand for their products. They lowered guidance and shares got punished hard. It remains a core holding for her. They face more competition. They bought a company recently in cancer treatment, which should add growth. She sees growth long term. The PE has fallen to the mid-teens, well below the historic norm.