ZACKS·2026-01-12 13:56Core Insights - Medical supplies stocks are typically not seen as high-return investments due to thin margins and regulatory pressures, making outperformance unlikely in a challenging macro environment [1] - However, companies like Cardinal Health, McKesson, and Cencora have achieved significant stock returns over the past year, outperforming the broader market with gains of 66.4%, 39.5%, and 42.2% respectively [2] Company Performance Cardinal Health - Cardinal Health has shown a turnaround with double-digit operating earnings growth across all segments in Q1 of fiscal 2026, indicating broad improvement [4][8] - Revenues increased by 22% year over year to $64 billion, driven by strong pharmaceutical demand and GLP-1 volumes, with the Pharmaceutical and Specialty Solutions segment profit rising by 26% [5] - The company is expanding its specialty business, including the acquisition of Solaris Health, aimed at enhancing provider relationships [6][8] - Cardinal Health generated $1.3 billion in adjusted free cash flow and returned $500 million to shareholders through dividends and buybacks [9] McKesson - McKesson reported 10% revenue growth to $103 billion and 39% adjusted EPS growth in Q2 of fiscal 2026, showcasing its operational excellence [11] - The Oncology and Multispecialty segment saw revenues jump by 32% and operating profit surge by 71%, driven by strong specialty volumes and acquisitions [12] - The company generated $2.2 billion in free cash flow and returned $907 million to shareholders, primarily through share repurchases [13] Cencora - Cencora's performance reflects the strength of specialty-focused distribution, with 6% revenue growth and 15% adjusted EPS growth in Q4 of fiscal 2025 [16] - Operating income rose by 20% year over year, supported by strong specialty demand and the acquisition of Retina Consultants of America [17] - The company plans to invest approximately $1 billion through 2030 to enhance distribution capacity and cold-chain infrastructure [18]