J&J Expects Better Top-Line Growth in 2H: Can It Achieve the Goal?

Core Insights - Johnson & Johnson (JNJ) reported strong second-quarter results, exceeding earnings and sales estimates despite the loss of exclusivity for its drug Stelara [1][2] - The company raised its 2025 sales expectations by approximately $2.0 billion, reflecting robust operational performance and favorable currency impacts [2][3] - JNJ's sales guidance for 2025 was adjusted from $91.0 billion-$91.8 billion to $93.2 billion-$93.4 billion, indicating a growth rate of 5.1%-5.6% compared to the previous expectation of 2.6%-3.6% [3] - Adjusted earnings per share guidance was increased from $10.50-$10.70 to $10.80-$10.90, supported by top-line strength and reduced tariff costs [3] Innovative Medicine Segment - JNJ anticipates higher operational sales growth in the Innovative Medicine segment in the second half of the year, driven by key products like Darzalex, Tremfya, and new drugs such as Carvykti and Tecvayli [4][5] - The impact of Stelara's loss of exclusivity and Medicare Part D redesign is expected to be mitigated by the performance of newly launched products [4] MedTech Segment - The MedTech segment is expected to see growth driven by increased adoption of new products in Cardiovascular, Surgery, and Vision, although challenges in China may persist [5] - Sales in the MedTech segment are projected to be stronger in the second half of the year as the business overcomes tougher comparisons from the first half [5] Market Performance - JNJ's shares have outperformed the industry year-to-date, with a 17.6% increase compared to a 3.3% decline in the industry [8] - The company's stock is currently trading at a price/earnings ratio of 15.0, slightly above the industry average of 14.29 but below its five-year mean of 15.68 [10] Earnings Estimates - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for JNJ's 2025 earnings has increased from $10.62 to $10.86 over the past 30 days, while the estimate for 2026 has risen from $11.0 to $11.36 [11]