How Is Agilent Technologies' Stock Performance Compared to Other Healthcare Stocks?

Company Overview - Agilent Technologies, Inc. has a market cap of $42.3 billion and provides application-focused solutions for life sciences, diagnostics, and applied chemical markets globally [1] - The company operates through three segments: Life Sciences and Applied Markets; Diagnostics and Genomics; and Agilent CrossLab, offering a wide range of instruments, consumables, software, and laboratory services [1] Stock Performance - Agilent's shares have decreased by 6.9% from its 52-week high of $160.27, but have increased by 19.2% over the past three months, outperforming The Health Care Select Sector SPDR Fund's (XLV) 13.3% gain during the same period [3] - Over the past 52 weeks, Agilent's stock has risen by 7.2%, surpassing XLV's 5.6% return, but is up only 11.1% year-to-date, lagging behind XLV's 12.7% return [4] Financial Results - Following its Q4 2025 results, Agilent's shares rose by 2.3%, with revenue of $1.86 billion exceeding estimates and adjusted EPS of $1.59 meeting expectations [5] - Key segments showed strong performance, with Life Sciences and Diagnostics revenue at $755 million and a 7% increase in CrossLab revenue to $775 million [5] - The company projects fiscal 2026 revenue between $7.3 billion and $7.4 billion, with adjusted EPS expected to be between $5.86 and $6 [5] Competitive Landscape - Despite Agilent's positive outlook, rival Eli Lilly and Company has outperformed, with LLY stock surging 33.9% year-to-date and 27.1% over the past 52 weeks [6] - Analysts maintain a moderately optimistic view on Agilent, with a consensus rating of "Moderate Buy" from 17 analysts and a mean price target of $169.62, indicating a 13.6% premium to current levels [6]