5 Healthcare Names to Watch as Sector Rotation Is in Full Swing

Core Viewpoint - The healthcare sector, particularly the Health Care Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLV), is experiencing significant momentum and is poised for potential breakout, with a key resistance level near $160 that, if surpassed, could indicate a new phase of outperformance for the sector [1][4]. Sector Performance - The XLV ETF has outperformed the S&P 500 and the tech sector in Q3, indicating a potential sector rotation towards healthcare [2][6]. - Year-to-date, the XLV has gained over 14%, reflecting strong performance amid stabilizing interest rates and robust Q3 earnings across the sector [3][4]. Key Companies - Eli Lilly (LLY): - Reported a 53.9% year-over-year revenue increase to $17.60 billion, with EPS of $7.02, exceeding estimates by 60 cents [8]. - The company raised its 2025 revenue guidance to between $63 billion and $63.5 billion, indicating strong demand for its products [8]. - The stock has crossed the $1 trillion market cap milestone, with a P/E ratio of 53 and a forward P/E of 33, suggesting high valuation [9][10]. - Johnson & Johnson (JNJ): - Posted Q3 adjusted EPS of $2.80, surpassing estimates, with revenue climbing 6.8% year-over-year to $24.0 billion, driven by a nearly 20% increase in oncology sales [11][12]. - The stock has gained 43% year-to-date, reflecting a recovery and strong operational execution [13]. - Gilead Sciences (GILD): - Reported Q3 EPS of $2.43, beating estimates by 31 cents, with revenue growing 3% year-over-year to $7.8 billion [14]. - The company raised its 2025 sales forecast to between $28.3 billion and $28.7 billion, indicating continued strength in its core areas [15]. - The stock is up 39% year-to-date and is trading above significant resistance levels, suggesting bullish momentum [16]. Investment Vehicles - The iShares Biotechnology ETF (IBB) has gained 31% year-to-date and 43% over the last six months, benefiting from renewed interest in the biotech sector [18]. - The IBB ETF is approaching a multi-year breakout level near $180, which could lead to a sustained rally if surpassed [18].