Baird Initiates Outperform Rating on Abbott Laboratories
Written by Emily J. Thompson, Senior Investment Analyst
Updated: 48 minutes ago
0mins
Source: seekingalpha
- Rating Upgrade: Baird initiated coverage on Abbott Laboratories (ABT) with an Outperform rating and a $121 price target, anticipating stable growth driven by several upcoming catalysts that will enhance the company's market position.
- Growth Expectations: Analyst David Rescott forecasts that Abbott's revenue and earnings will consistently grow by 6%-8% over the coming years, particularly as the company navigates past recent headwinds in respiratory and China diagnostics.
- Acquisition Impact: Despite facing dilution from its $21 billion acquisition of Exact Sciences, Rescott believes that Abbott will see a resurgence in double-digit revenue and earnings growth by 2027, which will bolster investor confidence in the company's long-term prospects.
- Market Performance: Following a more than 25% decline this year, Baird's optimistic outlook could position Abbott as an outperformer among large-cap MedTech peers, potentially attracting increased investor interest in the overall sector.
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Analyst Views on ABT
Wall Street analysts forecast ABT stock price to rise
19 Analyst Rating
17 Buy
2 Hold
0 Sell
Strong Buy
Current: 90.740
Low
136.00
Averages
148.11
High
169.00
Current: 90.740
Low
136.00
Averages
148.11
High
169.00
About ABT
Abbott Laboratories is a global healthcare company. The Company’s principal business is the discovery, development, manufacture, and sale of a broad and diversified line of healthcare products. Its segments include Established Pharmaceutical Products, Diagnostic Products, Nutritional Products, and Medical Devices. Established Pharmaceutical Products segment is engaged in the international sales of a broad line of branded generic pharmaceutical products. Diagnostic Products segment is involved in the worldwide sales of diagnostic systems and tests for blood banks, hospitals, commercial laboratories and alternate-care testing sites. Nutritional Products segment is engaged in the worldwide sales of a broad line of adult and pediatric nutritional products. Medical Devices segment is involved in the worldwide sales of rhythm management, electrophysiology, heart failure, vascular, structural heart, neuromodulation and diabetes care products. It serves people in more than 160 countries.
About the author
Emily J. Thompson
Emily J. Thompson, a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) with 12 years in investment research, graduated with honors from the Wharton School. Specializing in industrial and technology stocks, she provides in-depth analysis for Intellectia’s earnings and market brief reports.
Baird Initiates Outperform Rating on Abbott Laboratories
- Rating Upgrade: Baird initiated coverage on Abbott Laboratories (ABT) with an Outperform rating and a $121 price target, anticipating stable growth driven by several upcoming catalysts that will enhance the company's market position.
- Growth Expectations: Analyst David Rescott forecasts that Abbott's revenue and earnings will consistently grow by 6%-8% over the coming years, particularly as the company navigates past recent headwinds in respiratory and China diagnostics.
- Acquisition Impact: Despite facing dilution from its $21 billion acquisition of Exact Sciences, Rescott believes that Abbott will see a resurgence in double-digit revenue and earnings growth by 2027, which will bolster investor confidence in the company's long-term prospects.
- Market Performance: Following a more than 25% decline this year, Baird's optimistic outlook could position Abbott as an outperformer among large-cap MedTech peers, potentially attracting increased investor interest in the overall sector.
See More
Latest Wall Street Rating Updates
- Abbott Labs Upgrade: Baird initiates coverage on Abbott Labs (ABT) with an outperform rating, projecting steady revenue and earnings growth of 6-8% over the next few years, bolstered by its leading position in the rapidly growing MedDevice market, enhancing the company's competitive edge.
- Murphy USA Upgrade: Jefferies upgrades Murphy USA (MUSA) from hold to buy, citing improving fuel margins that are expected to drive EBITDA outlook significantly higher by 20-25%, which will materially enhance the company's financial performance in the coming years.
- Abivax Upgrade: Jefferies raises Abivax (ABVX) to buy, noting strong data for its ulcerative colitis drug that alleviates key market concerns, which is likely to drive a rebound in the stock price.
- Talos Energy Upgrade: Roth upgrades Talos Energy (TALO) from neutral to buy, raising the price target by 6% to $17, based on its robust balance sheet and low production decline rates, indicating strong future growth potential.
See More
Analysis of Three Major High Dividend ETFs
- Strong Performance of SCHD: As of June 26, 2026, the Schwab U.S. Dividend Equity ETF (SCHD) has risen over 15%, significantly outperforming the S&P 500, Nasdaq Composite, and Dow Jones, indicating its robust market performance and investment appeal.
- Diversification Advantage of VYM: The Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) offers a respectable 2.3% yield with 605 holdings, providing good diversification opportunities, and has doubled its dividend payout over the past decade, enhancing investor confidence.
- Growth Potential of VIG: The Vanguard Dividend Appreciation ETF (VIG) has the lowest dividend yield among the three but boasts a total return of 251% over the past decade, far exceeding SCHD and VYM, showcasing its unique advantage in growth stocks with a 28.4% allocation to tech.
- Cautious Investment Advice: Despite SCHD's strong performance, it was not included in the Motley Fool's current best stock picks, suggesting that investors should be cautious and consider potential higher return opportunities when selecting high dividend ETFs.
See More
Stable Passive Income Source: High Dividend ETFs
- Strong ETF Performance: The Schwab U.S. Dividend Equity ETF (SCHD) has shown remarkable performance in early 2026, rising over 15% and significantly outperforming the S&P 500, Nasdaq, and Dow Jones, highlighting its leadership in high-quality dividend stocks.
- Stable Dividend Yield: With a dividend yield of 3.3%, SCHD offers the highest yield among the three ETFs, and its stringent selection criteria ensure companies have a track record of 10 consecutive years of dividend increases, providing reliable passive income for long-term investors.
- Diversified Investment Options: The Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) offers a respectable 2.3% yield with a diversified portfolio of 605 stocks, and its dividend payouts have more than doubled over the past decade, appealing to investors seeking stable income.
- Growth Potential with Dividends: The Vanguard Dividend Appreciation ETF (VIG) has the lowest yield but boasts a total return of 251% over the past decade, far exceeding SCHD and VYM, showcasing its strength in growth stocks and appealing to investors looking for capital appreciation.
See More
Defensive Dividend Stock Investment Opportunities Amid Market Concerns
- AbbVie's Growth Potential: After losing the patent for Humira in 2023, AbbVie expects to generate over $31 billion in sales by 2027 from newer drugs like Skyrizi and Rinvoq, demonstrating strong growth potential in the biopharmaceutical sector, while its dividend payout ratio remains at a low 59%, providing stable returns for investors.
- Johnson & Johnson's Strength: Johnson & Johnson has raised its dividend for 64 consecutive years, currently offering a 2.1% yield, with its Innovative Medicine segment driving future growth; analysts project adjusted EPS to rise by 7% and 10% in 2026 and 2027, respectively, showcasing resilience amid market fluctuations.
- Pfizer's Risks and Opportunities: Pfizer's stock soared during the pandemic due to COVID-19 vaccine sales but has since declined; despite facing patent cliffs and competitive pressures, it has secured patent extensions for Vyndamax, which may support future growth and recovery.
- Market Environment and Investment Strategy: With the S&P 500 trading at historically high P/E ratios, investors are advised to consider defensive dividend stocks, which may decline during market downturns but offer steady income and potential capital appreciation for patient investors.
See More
U.S. Justice Department Closes Criminal Probe into Abbott Laboratories
- Investigation Closure: The U.S. Justice Department has decided to close its criminal probe into Abbott Laboratories, opting for civil penalties instead, which may alleviate some negative impacts on the company's reputation regarding its handling of a baby formula plant.
- Mild Penalties: Although prosecutors considered criminal charges against Abbott, they ultimately chose to recover profits earned from selling formula through federally funded nutrition programs, indicating a softer regulatory approach from the government.
- Recall Impact: Abbott initiated a recall and closed its Michigan plant in 2022 after traces of potentially deadly bacteria were found, exacerbating a national baby formula shortage that had already begun due to pandemic-related supply chain issues.
- Safety Priority: A DOJ spokesperson emphasized that ensuring the safety of the nation's food supply is a top priority, and while no criminal charges were pursued against Abbott, this reflects a significant focus on food safety regulation that may influence future industry oversight.
See More
Baird Initiates Outperform Rating on Abbott Laboratories
- Rating Upgrade: Baird initiated coverage on Abbott Laboratories (ABT) with an Outperform rating and a $121 price target, anticipating stable growth driven by several upcoming catalysts that will enhance the company's market position.
- Growth Expectations: Analyst David Rescott forecasts that Abbott's revenue and earnings will consistently grow by 6%-8% over the coming years, particularly as the company navigates past recent headwinds in respiratory and China diagnostics.
- Acquisition Impact: Despite facing dilution from its $21 billion acquisition of Exact Sciences, Rescott believes that Abbott will see a resurgence in double-digit revenue and earnings growth by 2027, which will bolster investor confidence in the company's long-term prospects.
- Market Performance: Following a more than 25% decline this year, Baird's optimistic outlook could position Abbott as an outperformer among large-cap MedTech peers, potentially attracting increased investor interest in the overall sector.
See More
Latest Wall Street Rating Updates
- Abbott Labs Upgrade: Baird initiates coverage on Abbott Labs (ABT) with an outperform rating, projecting steady revenue and earnings growth of 6-8% over the next few years, bolstered by its leading position in the rapidly growing MedDevice market, enhancing the company's competitive edge.
- Murphy USA Upgrade: Jefferies upgrades Murphy USA (MUSA) from hold to buy, citing improving fuel margins that are expected to drive EBITDA outlook significantly higher by 20-25%, which will materially enhance the company's financial performance in the coming years.
- Abivax Upgrade: Jefferies raises Abivax (ABVX) to buy, noting strong data for its ulcerative colitis drug that alleviates key market concerns, which is likely to drive a rebound in the stock price.
- Talos Energy Upgrade: Roth upgrades Talos Energy (TALO) from neutral to buy, raising the price target by 6% to $17, based on its robust balance sheet and low production decline rates, indicating strong future growth potential.
See More
Analysis of Three Major High Dividend ETFs
- Strong Performance of SCHD: As of June 26, 2026, the Schwab U.S. Dividend Equity ETF (SCHD) has risen over 15%, significantly outperforming the S&P 500, Nasdaq Composite, and Dow Jones, indicating its robust market performance and investment appeal.
- Diversification Advantage of VYM: The Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) offers a respectable 2.3% yield with 605 holdings, providing good diversification opportunities, and has doubled its dividend payout over the past decade, enhancing investor confidence.
- Growth Potential of VIG: The Vanguard Dividend Appreciation ETF (VIG) has the lowest dividend yield among the three but boasts a total return of 251% over the past decade, far exceeding SCHD and VYM, showcasing its unique advantage in growth stocks with a 28.4% allocation to tech.
- Cautious Investment Advice: Despite SCHD's strong performance, it was not included in the Motley Fool's current best stock picks, suggesting that investors should be cautious and consider potential higher return opportunities when selecting high dividend ETFs.
See More
Stable Passive Income Source: High Dividend ETFs
- Strong ETF Performance: The Schwab U.S. Dividend Equity ETF (SCHD) has shown remarkable performance in early 2026, rising over 15% and significantly outperforming the S&P 500, Nasdaq, and Dow Jones, highlighting its leadership in high-quality dividend stocks.
- Stable Dividend Yield: With a dividend yield of 3.3%, SCHD offers the highest yield among the three ETFs, and its stringent selection criteria ensure companies have a track record of 10 consecutive years of dividend increases, providing reliable passive income for long-term investors.
- Diversified Investment Options: The Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) offers a respectable 2.3% yield with a diversified portfolio of 605 stocks, and its dividend payouts have more than doubled over the past decade, appealing to investors seeking stable income.
- Growth Potential with Dividends: The Vanguard Dividend Appreciation ETF (VIG) has the lowest yield but boasts a total return of 251% over the past decade, far exceeding SCHD and VYM, showcasing its strength in growth stocks and appealing to investors looking for capital appreciation.
See More
Defensive Dividend Stock Investment Opportunities Amid Market Concerns
- AbbVie's Growth Potential: After losing the patent for Humira in 2023, AbbVie expects to generate over $31 billion in sales by 2027 from newer drugs like Skyrizi and Rinvoq, demonstrating strong growth potential in the biopharmaceutical sector, while its dividend payout ratio remains at a low 59%, providing stable returns for investors.
- Johnson & Johnson's Strength: Johnson & Johnson has raised its dividend for 64 consecutive years, currently offering a 2.1% yield, with its Innovative Medicine segment driving future growth; analysts project adjusted EPS to rise by 7% and 10% in 2026 and 2027, respectively, showcasing resilience amid market fluctuations.
- Pfizer's Risks and Opportunities: Pfizer's stock soared during the pandemic due to COVID-19 vaccine sales but has since declined; despite facing patent cliffs and competitive pressures, it has secured patent extensions for Vyndamax, which may support future growth and recovery.
- Market Environment and Investment Strategy: With the S&P 500 trading at historically high P/E ratios, investors are advised to consider defensive dividend stocks, which may decline during market downturns but offer steady income and potential capital appreciation for patient investors.
See More
U.S. Justice Department Closes Criminal Probe into Abbott Laboratories
- Investigation Closure: The U.S. Justice Department has decided to close its criminal probe into Abbott Laboratories, opting for civil penalties instead, which may alleviate some negative impacts on the company's reputation regarding its handling of a baby formula plant.
- Mild Penalties: Although prosecutors considered criminal charges against Abbott, they ultimately chose to recover profits earned from selling formula through federally funded nutrition programs, indicating a softer regulatory approach from the government.
- Recall Impact: Abbott initiated a recall and closed its Michigan plant in 2022 after traces of potentially deadly bacteria were found, exacerbating a national baby formula shortage that had already begun due to pandemic-related supply chain issues.
- Safety Priority: A DOJ spokesperson emphasized that ensuring the safety of the nation's food supply is a top priority, and while no criminal charges were pursued against Abbott, this reflects a significant focus on food safety regulation that may influence future industry oversight.
See More
