Johnson & Johnson Plans to Sell Orthopedics Unit DePuy Synthes
Written by Emily J. Thompson, Senior Investment Analyst
Updated: Feb 20 2026
0mins
Should l Buy JNJ?
Source: Benzinga
- Separation Strategy: Johnson & Johnson plans to separate its orthopedics unit, DePuy Synthes, within 18 to 24 months to enhance strategic and operational focus, potentially through a sale or other transactions to realize greater value.
- Acquisition Potential: Bloomberg reports that DePuy Synthes could be valued at approximately $20 billion, or $28 billion including debt, attracting interest from several large private equity firms considering joint bids.
- Strong Financial Performance: DePuy Synthes generated $9.3 billion in annual sales, while Johnson & Johnson reported adjusted earnings of $2.46 per share for Q4 2025, a 20.6% year-over-year increase, surpassing the consensus estimate of $2.44.
- Positive Market Reaction: Johnson & Johnson's stock rose 0.78% to $246.91 on Thursday, reflecting investor optimism regarding the company's separation plans and future growth potential.
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Analyst Views on JNJ
Wall Street analysts forecast JNJ stock price to fall
20 Analyst Rating
13 Buy
7 Hold
0 Sell
Moderate Buy
Current: 244.120
Low
190.00
Averages
218.50
High
240.00
Current: 244.120
Low
190.00
Averages
218.50
High
240.00
About JNJ
Johnson & Johnson and its subsidiaries are engaged in the research and development, manufacture, and sale of a range of products in the healthcare field. The Company’s segments include Innovative Medicine and MedTech. The Innovative Medicine segment is focused on various therapeutic areas, including immunology, infectious diseases, neuroscience, oncology, pulmonary hypertension, cardiovascular and metabolism. Its products include REMICADE (infliximab), SIMPONI (golimumab), SIMPONI ARIA (golimumab), STELARA (ustekinumab), TREMFYA (guselkumab), EDURANT (rilpivirine), and INVEGA SUSTENNA/XEPLION (paliperidone palmitate). The MedTech segment includes a portfolio of products used in cardiovascular, orthopedics, surgery, and vision categories. The Cardiovascular portfolio includes electrophysiology products to treat heart rhythm disorders and circulatory restoration products (Shockwave) for the treatment of calcified coronary artery disease (CAD) and peripheral artery disease (PAD).
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.
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- Consistent Dividend Growth: The company has raised its dividend for 63 consecutive years, with the latest 4.8% increase bringing the quarterly payout to $1.30 per share, resulting in a current yield of approximately 2.1%, bolstering investor confidence in its stock.
- Leading R&D Investment: Johnson & Johnson invested $14.6 billion in research and development last year, achieving 51 drug approvals and launching 15 new med-tech products, underscoring its leadership and innovation in the pharmaceutical sector.
- Existing Risks: Despite strong financials, Johnson & Johnson faces tens of thousands of lawsuits and pricing pressures from the Inflation Reduction Act, which could impact its future profit margins.
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- Surge in Stagflation Searches: Google Trends indicates a 650% increase in searches for 'stagflation 2026' over the past three months, highlighting growing market concerns about economic stagnation and high inflation, prompting investors to reassess potential recession risks.
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- Brand Loyalty: PepsiCo has built a robust brand loyalty through its diverse food and beverage portfolio, including brands like Lay's and Gatorade, allowing it to maintain a solid 3.7% dividend yield even during inflationary periods, showcasing its strong pricing power and profitability.
- Recession Resistance: Walmart is recognized as one of the most recession-resistant stocks, operating over 3,500 supercenters and more than 1,000 smaller stores, which helps it attract consumers during economic downturns, while also increasing its dividend for 53 consecutive years, despite a modest 0.8% yield.
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