How Is STERIS’ Stock Performance Compared to Other Medical Devices Stocks?

Company Overview - STERIS plc is valued at a market cap of $24.4 billion and is a leading global provider of infection prevention, decontamination, and surgical products and services, primarily serving the healthcare, pharmaceutical, and research industries [1] - The company is headquartered in Dublin, Ireland, and has been operational since 1985, supporting hospitals, laboratories, and pharmaceutical companies with sterilization and surgical solutions [1] Market Position - STERIS is classified as a "large-cap" stock, with a strong base of recurring revenues from consumables, service contracts, and equipment maintenance, providing stability and resilience [2] - The company has a global presence in over 100 countries and maintains a durable competitive edge in highly regulated and growing healthcare markets [2] Stock Performance - STERIS shares recently reached a 52-week high of $253 on September 12, with a 2.8% increase over the past three months, outperforming the iShares U.S. Medical Devices (IHI), which saw a 1.2% dip [3] - Year-to-date, STE shares have gained 20.6%, significantly outpacing IHI's 3.4% increase, and have returned 18% over the past 52 weeks compared to IHI's marginal increase [4] Financial Performance - On August 6, STERIS reported strong Q1 FY2026 results, with revenue rising 9% to $1.39 billion and adjusted EPS improving 15% to $2.34, driven by strength across segments, particularly Applied Sterilization Technologies and Healthcare [5] - The company benefited from margin expansion, firm pricing, and operational efficiencies, leading management to raise its full-year revenue growth outlook to 8–9% from a previous 6–7% and increase its free cash flow forecast to $820 million [5] Competitive Landscape - In contrast, key rival AdaptHealth Corp. (AHCO) has underperformed, with its stock decreasing by 19.3% over the past 52 weeks and a decline of 3.2% year-to-date [6]