Should You Stay Invested in J&J Stock After Q4 Beat & Solid Guidance?

Core Insights - Johnson & Johnson (JNJ) reported strong fourth-quarter 2025 results, with total revenues increasing by 9.1% to $24.56 billion and adjusted EPS rising by 20.6% year over year to $2.46 [1][10] - The company expects sales in 2026 to be between $100 billion and $101 billion, with adjusted EPS projected in the range of $11.43 to $11.63 [3][10] Innovative Medicines Segment - Despite the loss of exclusivity for Stelara, sales in the Innovative Medicines unit grew by 10.0% year over year to $15.76 billion in Q4 2025 [2][10] - The segment achieved over $60 billion in full-year sales for the first time in 2025, with 13 brands experiencing double-digit growth [6] - J&J anticipates continued growth in the Innovative Medicine segment in 2026, driven by key products and new launches, expecting a growth rate of 5% to 7% from 2025 to 2030 [7][10] MedTech Segment - The MedTech segment saw sales rise by 7.5% to $8.8 billion in Q4 2025, supported by strong performance in Cardiovascular, Surgery, and Vision [2][10] - J&J expects improved growth in the MedTech business in 2026, driven by new product launches across its portfolios [15][10] - The potential separation of the Orthopaedics franchise into a standalone company is expected to enhance growth and margins for the MedTech unit [14] Research and Development - J&J invested over $32 billion in R&D and M&A in 2025, including acquisitions that expanded its product portfolio [8] - The company achieved significant clinical and regulatory milestones, gaining approvals for new products that are expected to drive growth [9] Legal and Market Challenges - J&J faces challenges from the loss of patent exclusivity for Stelara, which accounted for approximately 18% of the Innovative Medicine unit's sales in 2024 [17] - The company is also dealing with the impact of the Medicare Part D redesign and ongoing legal battles related to its talc-based products [19][20] Stock Performance and Valuation - JNJ's stock has outperformed the industry, rising 48.5% over the past year compared to a 20.0% increase in the industry [23] - The stock is currently trading at a price/earnings ratio of 19.36, slightly above the industry average [25] - Earnings estimates for 2026 have increased, reflecting J&J's optimistic financial outlook [27] Overall Outlook - J&J's diversified business model, strong cash flows, and consistent dividend increases position the company well for future growth despite facing headwinds [30][31]