Can Specialty and International Momentum Support Cencora's Q1 Results?

Core Viewpoint - Cencora (COR) is expected to report strong first-quarter fiscal 2026 results, with positive revenue and earnings growth driven by pharmaceutical utilization trends and specialty-focused assets [1][3][7] Group 1: Financial Estimates - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for revenues is $85.97 billion, reflecting a 5.5% increase from the prior-year quarter [2] - The consensus estimate for earnings is $4.05 per share, indicating an 8.6% improvement from the previous year's figure [2] Group 2: Performance Drivers - Cencora's performance is anticipated to be supported by strong drug volumes and the U.S. Healthcare Solutions segment, which is expected to be the primary earnings driver [3][5][7] - The integration of Retina Consultants of America (RCA) is likely to contribute positively to sales and margins [3][4] Group 3: Segment Analysis - The U.S. Healthcare Solutions segment is projected to generate sales of $76.72 billion, benefiting from specialty distribution and MSO platforms [6][7] - The International Healthcare Solutions segment is expected to maintain growth, with sales estimated at $7.45 billion, supported by stable trends in Europe and World Courier momentum [6][8] Group 4: Margin and Growth Outlook - Margin performance is expected to remain favorable due to mix benefits from specialty distribution and MSO-related services, despite higher interest expenses from acquisition financing [4][5] - Specialty utilization, particularly in Part B drugs, is anticipated to support above-trend operating income growth [5]