Core Insights - Dividend yield is a key metric for identifying dividend stocks, reflecting the amount of a company's dividend as a percentage of its stock price, which can fluctuate daily [1] - A strong balance sheet, indicated by a low debt-to-equity ratio, is essential for long-term dividend sustainability [2][3] Company Summaries Costco - Costco has a dividend yield of 0.53% with an annual dividend of $5.20 and a 22-year track record of dividend increases [5] - The company has delivered a total return of over 266% over the past five years, with a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.21%, indicating strong financial health [6] - Investors should focus on the 12.7% average dividend growth over the last three years rather than the current yield [7] Archer-Daniels-Midland (ADM) - ADM boasts a dividend yield of 3.86% with an annual dividend of $2.04 and a 53-year history of dividend increases [8] - The company's debt-to-equity ratio stands at 0.34%, suggesting a stable dividend outlook [8] - However, ADM's growth is closely tied to commodity prices, which are cyclical, making it less defensive compared to consumer staples [9] Medtronic - Medtronic has a dividend yield of 3.26% with an annual dividend of $2.84 and a 49-year history of dividend increases [11] - The company is well-positioned in the aging population market and in AI and machine learning, with a debt-to-equity ratio of around 0.53% [12][13] - Despite its potential, Medtronic is not currently highlighted as a top buy by analysts, indicating some caution among investors [14]

Core Viewpoint - Philips and Medtronic have signed a new multi-year collaboration agreement to create a closed-loop ecosystem in patient monitoring, expanding their partnership that began in 1992 [1][3]. Group 1: Partnership Overview - The collaboration will initially focus on the North American market and later expand globally, integrating hardware, consumables, and data flow into a comprehensive solution [1][3]. - This partnership marks a shift from previous collaborations that focused on individual technologies to a more integrated approach that combines monitoring systems, core sensor technologies, and key consumables into a single sales solution [3][10]. Group 2: Product Integration - Philips will integrate Medtronic's core technologies, such as Nellcor pulse oximetry, Microstream capnography, and BIS brain function monitoring, into its existing monitoring systems [5][7][9]. - The collaboration will also promote bundled sales of consumables and devices, simplifying procurement processes for hospitals and enhancing supplier loyalty [9][10]. Group 3: Impact on Hospital Procurement - The shift from individual product purchases to bundled solutions will significantly impact hospital procurement and operations, reducing management costs and addressing compatibility and data integration challenges [10][14]. - A report indicated that 83% of U.S. healthcare professionals experience time loss due to fragmented patient data, highlighting the need for integrated solutions [10]. Group 4: Industry Trends - The partnership aligns with broader industry trends, as healthcare systems move from single-device procurement to integrated data platforms that include software analysis and remote monitoring [11]. - The global patient monitoring market is projected to grow from $11.83 billion in 2025 to $20.65 billion by 2034, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 8.3% [11]. Group 5: Challenges and Future Outlook - Data security and network attack risks remain significant concerns as monitoring systems become more integrated [12]. - The success of this collaboration will depend on the ability to navigate regulatory differences and market acceptance across various regions [12][13].

Company Performance - Medtronic's stock increased by 1.34% to $87.17, outperforming the S&P 500's gain of 0.52% [1] - Over the past month, Medtronic's stock has risen by 3.66%, while the Medical sector gained 1.88% and the S&P 500 increased by 4.27% [1] Upcoming Earnings - Medtronic's earnings report is expected on August 19, 2025, with an anticipated EPS of $1.23, indicating no change from the same quarter last year [2] - Revenue is projected to be $8.37 billion, reflecting a 5.69% increase compared to the same quarter last year [2] Fiscal Year Projections - For the entire fiscal year, earnings are projected at $5.55 per share and revenue at $35.29 billion, representing increases of 1.09% and 5.23% respectively from the prior year [3] Analyst Forecasts - Recent revisions to analyst forecasts for Medtronic should be monitored, as they reflect short-term business trends [4] - Positive estimate revisions are interpreted as a favorable sign for the business outlook [4] Zacks Rank and Valuation - The Zacks Rank system currently rates Medtronic as 5 (Strong Sell), with a 0% increase in the EPS estimate over the last 30 days [6] - Medtronic has a Forward P/E ratio of 15.51, which is lower than the industry average of 19.12 [7] - The company has a PEG ratio of 2.32, compared to the industry average PEG ratio of 2.25 [7] Industry Context - The Medical - Products industry has a Zacks Industry Rank of 155, placing it in the bottom 37% of over 250 industries [8] - Research indicates that the top 50% rated industries outperform the bottom half by a factor of 2 to 1 [8]

Core Insights - Moretus Research provides high-quality equity research focused on U.S. public markets, aiming to deliver clarity, conviction, and alpha for serious investors [1] - The research methodology emphasizes a structured, repeatable framework to identify companies with durable business models and mispriced cash flow potential [1] - Valuation practices are based on sector-relevant multiples tailored to each company's business model, emphasizing comparability and relevance [1] Research Focus - Moretus Research targets underappreciated companies that are undergoing structural changes or temporary dislocations, where disciplined analysis can yield asymmetric returns [1] - The research combines rigorous fundamental analysis with a judgment-driven process, avoiding noise and overly complex forecasting [1] - The firm aims to elevate the standard for independent investment research by providing actionable insights and a strong filter for relevant information in equity analysis [1]

Group 1 - The S&P 500 reached a new record high, surpassing its previous peak from February [1] - The top-performing sectors include Tech, Industrials, and Financials, while the Health Care sector has underperformed [1] Group 2 - The article emphasizes the importance of analyzing stock market sectors, ETFs, and economic data to identify investment opportunities [1]

Industry Overview - The MedSurg equipment market is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.54% from 2025 to 2030 [1] - The growth is driven by an aging population, rising chronic diseases, and rapid technological advancements [3] Boston Scientific (BSX) - Boston Scientific's MedSurg segment is gaining market share, particularly in Endoscopy, Urology, and Neuromodulation [4] - The Endoscopy segment is experiencing growth due to endoluminal surgery and single-use imaging [4] - Urology is benefiting from strong contributions from the Core Stone and prosthetic urology franchises [4] - Neuromodulation is boosted by new products like Cartesia leads and Lumina 3D programming algorithm [4] - The structural heart segment is also performing well, with a 24% growth in WATCHMAN sales [5] - Emerging markets are a vital growth engine, with net sales growing nearly 9.8% year-over-year [6] - In Q1, Boston Scientific reported an adjusted gross margin increase of 19 basis points and an operating margin improvement of 127 basis points [7] - The company raised its full-year 2025 outlook, projecting 15-17% reported net sales growth and adjusted EPS of $2.87-$2.94 [7] Medtronic (MDT) - Medtronic's MedSurg portfolio is benefiting from positive sales momentum in Surgical Robotics, particularly the Hugo robotic-assisted surgery system [8] - The Hugo RAS system has expanded its installed base to 30 countries, with growth in procedure volumes and utilization [8] - Medtronic is seeing significant growth in Cardiac Ablation Solutions, with nearly 30% growth in the fiscal fourth quarter [9] - The company is focused on expansion in emerging markets, which grew mid-single digits in the quarter [11] - Medtronic's operational performance in Q1 showed gross margin improvement of 19 basis points and operating margin growth of 210 basis points [12] - For fiscal 2026, Medtronic projects organic revenue growth of 5% over fiscal 2025 [12] Stock Performance - Over the past year, Boston Scientific's shares have risen by 35.2%, while Medtronic's shares have gained only 7.4% [13] - Boston Scientific is trading at a forward five-year price-to-sales (P/S) ratio of 7.5X, compared to Medtronic's 3.1X [15] - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Boston Scientific's 2025 EPS implies a year-over-year improvement of 15.9% [17] - Analysts have shown declining confidence in Medtronic, with downward EPS estimate revisions in the last 60 days [18] Investment Outlook - Boston Scientific is gaining strength across MedSurg and structural heart segments, supported by innovation and global expansion [19] - Despite expected tariff impacts, Boston Scientific's raised guidance reflects confidence in sustained growth [19] - Medtronic, while carrying a Zacks Rank 4 (Sell), may attract value-focused investors due to its discounted P/S ratio [20]

Core Insights - Medtronic has appointed Dr. Joon Lee as a new independent board member, effective June 18, 2025, bringing valuable insights from his experience in healthcare management and innovation [1][7]. Company Overview - Medtronic, founded in 1949 and headquartered in Minneapolis, Minnesota, is a leading global medical technology company with over 95,000 employees [8]. - The company focuses on providing lifelong treatment solutions for chronic disease patients, impacting two patients every second globally with its medical technologies [8]. Dr. Joon Lee's Background - Dr. Lee is currently the CEO of Emory Healthcare, Georgia's largest academic medical system, with an annual revenue of approximately $5.6 billion [4]. - He has extensive experience in healthcare policy, hospital operations, and patient-provider relationships, having served in various leadership roles for over 25 years at UPMC [5][6]. - Dr. Lee has a strong focus on digital transformation in healthcare and has successfully enhanced public health response capabilities during the COVID-19 pandemic [6]. Significance of Dr. Lee's Appointment - Dr. Lee's perspective as a healthcare service provider will help Medtronic better understand hospital purchasing decisions, clinical needs, and patient experiences [7]. - His expertise is expected to drive the adoption of Medtronic's products, particularly in cardiovascular and neuroscience sectors [7]. Recent Developments - Medtronic announced plans to spin off its diabetes business, including the MiniMed insulin pump, into a standalone public company by November 2026 [12]. - The company is investing in the Hugo robotic-assisted surgery system and pulse field ablation technology for atrial fibrillation treatment [12]. - Medtronic is expanding globally, with a $50 million investment to establish a diabetes Global Capability Center in Pune, India, creating 600 jobs [12].

Core Insights - Medtronic plc has appointed Dr. Joon Lee, CEO of Emory Healthcare, as an independent director on its Board, effective June 18, 2025 [1] - Dr. Lee will contribute to the Science and Technology Committee and Compensation and Talent Committee [1] Company Overview - Medtronic is a global leader in healthcare technology, headquartered in Galway, Ireland, with a mission to alleviate pain, restore health, and extend life [6] - The company employs over 95,000 people across more than 150 countries and addresses 70 health conditions with its technologies [6] Dr. Joon Lee's Background - Dr. Lee has over 25 years of experience at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC), where he held significant roles including Executive Vice President and President of Physician Services [3] - He has a strong background in cardiology, having served as Chief of the Division of Cardiology and founding executive director of the UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute [4] - Dr. Lee's educational credentials include a BA from Dartmouth College and an MD from Duke University, along with extensive training in cardiology at Massachusetts General Hospital [5] Financial and Operational Insights - Emory Healthcare, under Dr. Lee's leadership, generates $7.7 billion in annual revenue and operates 12 hospitals with over 29,000 employees [2] - Dr. Lee also served as Chief Medical Officer of UPMC Insurance Services, which is a $13 billion health insurance division [4] Strategic Vision - Dr. Lee is recognized for his commitment to leveraging data and technology to enhance patient and provider experiences, aligning with Medtronic's mission [2]

Company Overview - Medtronic shares have increased by approximately 6% over the past month, outperforming the S&P 500 index [1] - The most recent earnings report is crucial for understanding the catalysts affecting the stock [1] Earnings Estimates - Estimates for Medtronic have trended downward, with a consensus estimate shift of -6.38% in the past month [2] - The overall direction of estimate revisions indicates a negative outlook for the stock [4] VGM Scores - Medtronic has a Growth Score of B, a Momentum Score of F, and a Value Score of C, resulting in an aggregate VGM Score of C [3] Market Outlook - The downward trend in estimates has led to a Zacks Rank of 4 (Sell) for Medtronic, suggesting expectations of below-average returns in the coming months [4] Industry Comparison - Medtronic is part of the Zacks Medical - Products industry, where Phibro Animal Health (PAHC) has gained 4.1% over the past month [5] - Phibro reported revenues of $347.8 million for the last quarter, reflecting a year-over-year increase of +32.1% [5] - Phibro's expected earnings for the current quarter are $0.52 per share, indicating a +26.8% change from the previous year, with a Zacks Rank of 1 (Strong Buy) [6]

Company Overview - Medtronic serves over 95,000 patients and operates in more than 150 countries, with a research and development spend of $2.7 billion[18]. - The company has over 95,000 full-time employees, with 44% based in the U.S. or Puerto Rico[39]. - The company's principal executive office is located in Ireland, while its main operational offices are in Minneapolis, Minnesota[167]. Innovation and Product Development - The company aims to accelerate innovation-driven growth through recent product launches and a robust pipeline, targeting strong revenue growth in attractive end markets[20]. - Medtronic's diverse product offerings across multiple portfolios position it well for future market expansion and innovation[19]. - The company is committed to maintaining technological leadership through extensive R&D efforts, participating in hundreds of clinical trials each fiscal year[51]. - The company emphasizes the integration of data, AI, and automation to improve patient care and operational efficiency[20]. - The company continues to support patients with HVAD devices despite halting the distribution of the HVAD System in June 2021[22]. Financial Performance - For fiscal year 2025, the company reported net income attributable to Medtronic of $4,662 million, with diluted EPS of $3.61 and an effective tax rate of 16.6%[191]. - Non-GAAP net income for fiscal year 2025 was $7,079 million, with diluted EPS of $5.49 and a non-GAAP effective tax rate of 16.7%[191]. - Free cash flow for fiscal year 2025 was $5,185 million, compared to $5,200 million in fiscal year 2024[194]. - Total net sales for fiscal year 2025 increased by 4% to $33,537 million, driven by growth in several segments including Cardiac Rhythm & Heart Failure and Diabetes[199]. Market Segments - Medtronic's Cardiovascular Portfolio includes advanced products such as implantable cardiac pacemakers and defibrillators, contributing significantly to its revenue streams[21][22]. - The Structural Heart & Aortic division offers therapies for heart valve disorders and aortic disease, enhancing the company's treatment capabilities[23]. - The Neuroscience Portfolio includes products for spinal and cranial technologies, addressing a wide range of neurological conditions[25]. - Medtronic's Medical Surgical Portfolio focuses on advanced surgical products and therapies, catering to healthcare systems and alternate site providers[32]. Regulatory Environment - The global regulatory environment is increasingly stringent, impacting the cost and time needed for product approvals[67]. - The EU Medical Device Regulation (EU MDR) became effective on May 26, 2021, with an extended implementation period for high-risk devices until the end of 2027[66]. - Compliance with evolving data privacy and cybersecurity regulations has resulted in increased costs and compliance challenges[70]. - Regulatory compliance is complex and any adverse actions from agencies like the U.S. FDA could materially affect the company's operations and market position[99]. Competition and Market Challenges - The company faces competition from both large manufacturers and small companies, as well as pharmaceutical companies producing alternative therapies[58]. - The healthcare industry consolidation and the rise of ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs) could lead to increased competition and downward pricing pressure on the company's products[156][158]. - Cost-containment measures in the healthcare industry may result in reduced sales of medical devices, as third-party payors may deny payment approvals for procedures involving the company's products[159]. Supply Chain and Operational Risks - Supply chain disruptions, particularly for components like semiconductors, have previously affected manufacturing operations[86]. - The company faces risks related to supply chain disruptions, including reliance on petroleum-based materials, which can significantly affect manufacturing costs and sales[88]. - The company has plans in place to ensure continuity of supply for components and raw materials, despite potential regulatory challenges[62]. Corporate Social Responsibility - The company has a strong commitment to patient-centered solutions, enhancing experiences for both patients and healthcare providers[20]. - The Medtronic Employee Emergency Assistance Fund has provided $4 million in grants over the last five years to employees facing financial hardships due to unexpected events[49]. - The company achieved 100% pay equity for gender and ethnically diverse employees in the U.S. and 99% globally for gender[43]. Future Outlook - The company announced plans to separate its Diabetes business, aiming to create a new independent, publicly traded company within 18 months of the announcement[38]. - The company intends to expand operations in emerging markets, which could expose it to additional risks and costs[149]. - Continued global adoption of the TYRX Envelope for implantable devices is expected to drive future growth in Cardiovascular[207].