Growing Diagnostics Arm Supports ABT Stock, Macro Issues Ail

Core Insights - Abbott's diversified business portfolio is positioned for continued momentum in 2025 despite a challenging international business environment [1] - The stock currently holds a Zacks Rank 3 (Hold) [1] Diabetes Care - Abbott's Diabetes Care business is benefiting from the strong sales of its FreeStyle Libre continuous glucose monitoring system, which has achieved global leadership in the CGM market for both Type 1 and Type 2 users [2] - In Q2 2025, CGM sales exceeded $1.9 billion, reflecting a 19.6% organic growth, with U.S. Libre sales rising nearly 26% [3] - The upcoming launch of Abbott's dual-analyte sensor is expected to enhance market share, particularly among intensive insulin users [3] Diagnostics Business - Abbott's Diagnostics business accounted for 19.5% of total revenues in Q2 2025, with core laboratory diagnostics (excluding China) growing 8% [4] - Strong demand was noted in the U.S. and Europe (up 7-8%) and Latin America (up high teens), despite temporary headwinds from volume-based procurement in China and reduced U.S. foreign aid for HIV testing [4][9] - The company remains optimistic about the long-term fundamentals of its Core Lab business [4] Established Pharmaceuticals Division (EPD) - Abbott's EPD sales increased 7.7% organically in Q2 2025, with over half of its top 15 markets surpassing $1 billion in quarterly sales for the first time [5] - The focus on biosimilars is expected to strengthen Abbott's prospects, with 10 regulatory approval submissions completed and launches projected for 2026 [5] Financial Performance - Year-to-date, Abbott's shares have gained 19.6%, outperforming the industry's 5.7% improvement [6] - The company's efforts to expand in high-growth areas and new product launches are anticipated to support continued stock uptrend [6] Challenges - Abbott faces challenges from a complex macroeconomic environment, including geopolitical tensions and rising expenses for raw materials and freight [7] - The deteriorating global economic environment is reducing demand for several MedTech products, leading to lower sales and increased costs [7] - Foreign exchange fluctuations have negatively impacted Abbott's performance, with a 1.1% unfavorable year-over-year impact on sales in the first half of 2025 [10]