Forbes·2025-11-25 10:20Core Insights - Johnson & Johnson (JNJ) has significantly outperformed Pfizer (PFE) in 2023, with JNJ's stock rising nearly 45% compared to PFE's decline of 6%, while the S&P 500 increased by 13% [2] - The performance disparity is attributed to JNJ's strong strategic execution and growth drivers, contrasting with the challenges faced by Pfizer in a post-pandemic environment [2][4] Johnson & Johnson's Growth Drivers - JNJ's stock rise is supported by strong earnings and an optimistic outlook, with Q3 2025 earnings exceeding sales and profit projections, leading to an increase in full-year guidance [7] - Strategic acquisitions, such as Halda Therapeutics and Intra-Cellular Therapies, have bolstered JNJ's high-growth portfolio [7] - The planned separation of the orthopedics division (DePuy Synthes) allows JNJ to focus on higher-margin fields like cardiovascular and surgical technologies [7] - The Innovative Medicines division and the MedTech division have shown consistent operational growth, driven by successful product launches and acquisitions [7] Pfizer's Downturn - Pfizer's stock decline is primarily due to decreased demand for COVID-19 products, resulting in a significant revenue gap compared to pandemic sales [7] - Investor concerns regarding future growth are heightened by patent expirations, regulatory challenges, and the withdrawal of a weight-loss medication candidate [7] - JNJ's quarterly revenue growth was 6.8%, while PFE experienced a decline of 5.9%, with JNJ's Last 12 Months revenue growth at 5.1% compared to PFE's 3.9% [7] Financial Comparison - JNJ demonstrates superior revenue growth performance, improved margins, and a relatively lower valuation compared to PFE, indicating a more favorable investment opportunity in JNJ [4][6] - JNJ's profitability is stronger, with a Last 12 Months margin of 26.2% and a 3-year average margin of 26.4% [7]