Core Viewpoint - The article emphasizes the importance of dividend stocks as a reliable investment option, particularly during varying market conditions, highlighting three companies known as Dividend Kings that are recommended for long-term investment. Group 1: Dividend Kings Overview - Dividend Kings are companies that have increased their dividends for at least 50 consecutive years, indicating a strong commitment to returning value to shareholders [3]. - These companies provide passive income and can offer stability during market downturns while also benefiting from market upswings [2]. Group 2: Abbott Laboratories - Abbott Laboratories has a dividend of $2.52, yielding 2.4%, which is higher than the S&P 500's 1.1% yield [4]. - The company has a diversified healthcare business with four units: medical devices, diagnostics, nutrition, and established pharmaceuticals, providing security against downturns in any single unit [6]. Group 3: Target - Target has faced challenges recently, including a shift in consumer behavior and theft, but is implementing strategies to recover, such as creating an enterprise acceleration office [7][8]. - The company offers a dividend of $4.56, yielding 4.5%, which can provide passive income while the stock potentially rebounds [10]. Group 4: Johnson & Johnson - Johnson & Johnson spun off its consumer health business to focus on higher-growth areas, resulting in a 6% sales increase to over $94 billion last year and an 8% rise in adjusted diluted earnings per share [11][12]. - The company pays a dividend of $5.20, yielding 2.3%, making it a solid choice for passive income [14].

Core Viewpoint - Promino Nutritional Sciences Inc. has successfully closed a private placement, raising a total of $1,121,413 by issuing 37,380,433 units at a price of $0.03 per unit, with each unit consisting of one common share and one warrant [1][4] Group 1: Private Placement Details - The private placement involved the issuance of 37,380,433 units at $0.03 per unit, resulting in gross proceeds of $1,121,413 [1] - The company paid finders' fees of $69,233 in cash and issued 2,307,767 finders warrants, each exercisable at $0.06 for twelve months [2] - Upon closing, AlphaNorth Partners Fund Inc. increased its ownership from approximately 8.78% to 10.71%, holding 18,824,851 shares [3] Group 2: Use of Proceeds - Net proceeds from the private placement will be allocated to accelerate growth through inventory investments and for general corporate purposes, excluding salaries for officers or directors [4] Group 3: Company Overview - Promino Nutritional Sciences is focused on science-based nutrition for muscle health, with its core product being Rejuvenate Muscle Health™, a clinically researched amino acid formula [5] - The company also produces Promino™, which is NSF Certified for Sport® and endorsed by elite athletes [6]

Group 1 - The core viewpoint of the articles highlights that the Chinese market remains a crucial battleground for global brand growth, with Tmall International reporting a significant increase in the number of overseas brands entering the market [1][2] - By 2025, a total of 2,415 overseas new brands are expected to open their first stores in China through Tmall International, achieving double-digit growth year-on-year, averaging over 6 new brands daily [1] - The fourth quarter saw a notable acceleration in brand entries, with a record addition of 691 new brands in a single quarter, marking the peak for the year [1] Group 2 - The top three new imported brands in 2025 are COVERNAT from South Korea, herbs of gold from Australia, and Weverse Shop, a brand associated with Korean celebrities [1] - New brands are emerging from 52 countries and regions globally, with the highest numbers from the United States, Japan, and South Korea, while France, New Zealand, and Australia are the fastest-growing sources [1] - The platform has welcomed brands from Cuba, Chile, and Lithuania for the first time, indicating a continuous expansion of its global network [1] Group 3 - In terms of industry dimensions, health, beauty and personal care, and maternal and infant sectors are the most densely populated areas for overseas new brand entries [2] - There is a shift in brand strategies from general demand fulfillment to more refined positioning, particularly in the maternal and infant sector, where new brands in baby food surged by 128% [2] - The fastest-growing categories on Tmall International include toys, outdoor equipment, baby food, fashion cosmetics, and pet health, all achieving double-digit growth, reflecting consumer preferences for both personal and family-oriented products [2] Group 4 - Tmall International currently hosts over 40,000 brands from more than 110 countries and regions, enhancing its infrastructure for cross-border recruitment, supply chain, and product authenticity [2] - The platform is facilitating efficient market entry and sustainable growth for various overseas brands in China [2]

Abbott Laboratories (NYSE:ABT) is included among the 12 Most Profitable Dividend Stocks to Buy in 2026. Evercore ISI Says Abbott’s (ABT) Core Growth Drivers Are Still Intact Courtesy of Abbott Labs On January 23, Evercore ISI trimmed its price target on Abbott Laboratories (NYSE:ABT) to $138 from $144. However, it kept an Outperform rating. The firm acknowledged the recent stumbles that led to a quarterly miss and a more cautious outlook for the second half, but said the bigger picture has not changed. ...

Core Insights - Abbott Laboratories reported Q4 2025 sales of $11.46 billion, a 4.4% increase year-over-year, but fell short of analyst projections by approximately 3% [2] - Adjusted EPS for the quarter was $1.50, meeting expectations, while total annual adjusted EPS reached $5.15, indicating a 10% growth [2] Financial Performance - Organic sales growth decreased to 3% during the quarter due to reduced demand in some areas [4] - Adjusted gross margin increased by 20 basis points to 57.1%, and operating margin expanded by 150 basis points to 25.8%, reflecting effective cost management [4] - Guidance for 2026 projects organic sales growth of 6.5%-7.5% and an adjusted EPS around $5.68 at the midpoint, aligning with consensus expectations [6] Valuation Dynamics - Abbott is currently priced at around $109 per share, trading at 21 times its trailing adjusted EPS of $5.15, down from a three-year average P/E of 24 times [6][7] - The forward P/E based on guidance is 19 times, indicating potential stability, but slowdowns in Nutrition and uncertainties regarding acquisitions limit optimism [7] Segment Performance - Medical Devices segment showed strong demand, particularly in structural heart and neuromodulation, with Freestyle Libre contributing significantly to organic growth [10] - Diagnostics revenue is normalizing post-COVID, with the Exact Sciences acquisition valued at up to $23 billion expected to enhance this sector [10] - Nutrition sales declined due to market dynamics, raising concerns about future growth in this segment [10] Future Catalysts and Risks - Potential upside for Abbott depends on realizing synergies from Exact Sciences, stabilization in Nutrition, and successful execution in high-growth devices [8] - Downside risks include persistent weakness in Nutrition, regulatory challenges with the Exact Sciences acquisition, and overall caution in medtech spending [9]

Core Insights - Abbott Laboratories has projected that its first-quarter profit will fall short of Wall Street expectations due to the need to offer discounts on nutrition products to attract price-sensitive customers, resulting in a significant drop in share prices [1][4] Financial Performance - The company anticipates adjusted earnings per share for the first quarter to be between $1.12 and $1.18, compared to the Wall Street average estimate of $1.19 [2] - In the fourth quarter, Abbott reported sales of $11.5 billion, which was below the average analyst estimate of $11.8 billion. Nutrition sales were particularly disappointing at $1.9 billion, falling short of the $2.19 billion estimate [3] Business Strategy - Abbott is shifting its nutrition business focus towards sustainable volume growth, which may impact performance in the first half of the year but is expected to position the business for long-term success. The company plans to launch eight new nutrition products in 2026 [5] Market Dynamics - The adult nutrition unit, which includes protein-focused drinks for individuals on weight-loss medications, has seen growth in recent quarters. However, the company faces challenges due to lawsuits alleging that its baby formula may cause necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) in premature infants [6] Segment Performance - Abbott's largest business unit, medical devices, generated $5.67 billion in sales during the fourth quarter, aligning with estimates. This division includes products that assist diabetics in monitoring blood sugar levels [7] - The diagnostics unit has experienced a decline in demand following the pandemic, particularly for Covid-19 tests. Abbott has agreed to acquire Exact Sciences Corp. for approximately $21 billion, which is expected to enhance its diagnostics business by providing access to cancer screening tests [8]

Core Insights - Abbott Laboratories reported fourth-quarter 2025 adjusted EPS of $1.50, aligning with estimates and showing an 11.9% increase from the previous year [1] - Full-year 2025 adjusted EPS was $5.15, reflecting a 10.3% year-over-year growth [1] - The company’s fourth-quarter revenues were $11.46 billion, a 4.4% increase year-over-year, but missed estimates by 2.8% [2] Financial Performance - The GAAP EPS for Q4 was $1.01, down from $5.27 in Q4 2024 [1] - Full-year 2025 worldwide sales reached $44.33 billion, up 5.7% year-over-year, but also missed estimates by 0.6% [2] - Gross profit for Q4 increased by 8.4% to $6.54 billion, with a gross margin expansion of 208 basis points to 57% [9] Segment Performance - Established Pharmaceuticals segment sales rose 9% to $1.38 billion, with organic sales growth of 7.1% [4] - Medical Devices segment sales increased 12.3% to $5.68 billion, driven by strong growth in Electrophysiology, Heart Failure, and Diabetes Care [5] - Nutrition sales declined 8.9% to $1.94 billion, with Pediatric Nutrition down 10.1% and Adult Nutrition down 8.2% [6][7] Future Guidance - For 2026, Abbott projects adjusted EPS between $5.55 and $5.80, with organic sales growth expected to be between 6.5% and 7.5% [11] - The first quarter of 2026 EPS is projected to be between $1.12 and $1.18 [11] Market Reaction - Following the earnings announcement, Abbott's stock fell 5.4% in pre-market trading [3] - The decline in Nutrition sales is attributed to lower sales volumes and strategic pricing actions [12]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Q4 2025, sales increased by 3.8% excluding COVID testing sales, with adjusted earnings per share (EPS) of $1.50 reflecting a growth of 12% compared to the prior year [18] - Adjusted gross margin was 57.1% of sales, an increase of 20 basis points year-over-year, while adjusted operating margin rose to 25.8%, reflecting an increase of 150 basis points [18] - The company forecasts adjusted EPS for 2026 to be in the range of $5.55-$5.80, indicating a 10% growth at the midpoint [19] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Nutrition sales declined in Q4, impacted by market share loss and increased manufacturing costs, with a focus on reigniting volume growth through price and promotion initiatives [9][10] - Diagnostics sales decreased by 3.5% due to a decline in COVID testing, while Core Lab Diagnostics grew by 3.5%, achieving accelerating growth [11] - EPD (Established Pharmaceuticals Division) saw a 7% increase in sales, with double-digit growth in India and several Latin American and Middle Eastern countries [12] - Medical devices sales grew by 10.5%, driven by a 12% increase in continuous glucose monitors and strong performance in electrophysiology and structural heart segments [12][14] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The U.S. pediatric nutrition business faced challenges due to market share loss and increased price sensitivity among consumers [9][10] - Core Lab Diagnostics growth was 7% excluding China, reflecting durable demand globally [11] - EPD's growth was well-balanced across markets, with significant contributions from emerging markets [12] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to transition back to a more balanced growth profile, focusing on volume growth alongside price increases [10] - The acquisition of Exact Sciences is expected to enhance Abbott's position in the cancer diagnostics market, adding a high-growth business to its portfolio [8] - The company plans to launch at least eight new products in the nutrition segment over the next 12 months to support growth [10] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged the challenges in the nutrition business but expressed confidence in the ability to reignite volume growth and return to positive growth in the second half of 2026 [27] - The company expects continued momentum in most business segments, with a focus on innovation and operational excellence driving growth [8][29] - Management highlighted the importance of addressing price sensitivity and the need for a sustainable growth strategy in the nutrition segment [25][27] Other Important Information - The company anticipates a favorable impact from foreign exchange on full-year reported sales, estimated at around 1% [19] - The adjusted tax rate is forecasted to be in the range of 15%-16% for the year [19] Q&A Session Summary Question: Concerns about revenue growth guidance - Management acknowledged a slight reduction in top-line guidance primarily due to challenges in the nutrition business but maintained EPS guidance in line with consensus [23][24] Question: Insights on the EP product portfolio - Management emphasized the successful launch of the Vault PFA catheter and the strategic positioning of Abbott's EP portfolio, expecting to grow in line with market trends [34][39] Question: Guidance considerations and risk adjustments - Management explained that the guidance reflects a mix of stable growth in core segments and anticipated recovery in diagnostics, with a focus on maintaining high single-digit growth [42][45] Question: Continuous glucose monitor (CGM) growth expectations - Management projected continued strong growth in CGM sales, driven by market expansion opportunities and new product launches [50][56] Question: Capital allocation and M&A strategy - Management indicated a focus on integrating Exact Sciences post-acquisition, with potential for smaller tuck-in acquisitions in the future [69][70]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Q4 2025, sales increased by 3.8% excluding COVID testing sales, with adjusted earnings per share (EPS) of $1.50 reflecting a growth of 12% compared to the prior year [18] - Adjusted gross margin was 57.1% of sales, an increase of 20 basis points year-over-year, while adjusted operating margin rose by 150 basis points to 25.8% [18] - The company forecasts adjusted EPS for 2026 to be in the range of $5.55-$5.80, indicating a 10% growth at the midpoint [19] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Nutrition sales declined in Q4, impacted by market share loss and increased manufacturing costs, with a focus on reigniting volume growth through price and promotion initiatives [9][10] - Diagnostics sales decreased by 3.5% due to a decline in COVID testing, but Core Lab Diagnostics grew by 3.5%, with a full-year growth of 7% excluding China [11] - EPD (Established Pharmaceuticals Division) saw a 7% sales increase, with double-digit growth in India and several Latin American and Middle Eastern countries [12] - Medical devices sales grew by 10.5%, driven by a 12% increase in continuous glucose monitors (CGM) and strong performance in electrophysiology and structural heart segments [12][14] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The U.S. pediatric nutrition business faced challenges due to a loss of a large WIC contract, leading to a need for volume growth strategies [9] - Core Lab Diagnostics experienced durable demand globally, with growth in markets outside of China [11] - EPD's growth was well-balanced across markets, with significant contributions from emerging markets [12] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to transition back to a volume-driven growth model in nutrition, with plans to launch at least eight new products in the next 12 months [10] - The acquisition of Exact Sciences is expected to enhance Abbott's position in the cancer diagnostics market, adding a high-growth business to its portfolio [8] - The company is focused on innovation and operational excellence to drive growth in 2026, with a forecast of 7% organic sales growth [8] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged challenges in the nutrition segment due to price sensitivity among consumers and the need for a sustainable growth model [9][10] - The outlook for 2026 includes expectations of accelerating growth in diagnostics and continued strong performance in cardiovascular and diabetes products [29] - Management expressed confidence in the ability to navigate short-term challenges in nutrition and return to growth in the second half of the year [27] Other Important Information - The company is committed to maintaining a growing dividend and has a strong balance sheet to support future investments [70] - Management emphasized the importance of integrating Exact Sciences post-acquisition and the potential for tuck-in acquisitions in the future [70] Q&A Session Summary Question: Concerns about revenue growth guidance - Management acknowledged a slight reduction in top-line guidance primarily due to challenges in the nutrition business but maintained EPS guidance in line with consensus [23][24] Question: Insights on the electrophysiology (EP) portfolio - Management highlighted the successful launch of Volt and TactiFlex Duo products, positioning Abbott favorably in the EP market with a comprehensive portfolio [34][39] Question: Guidance considerations and risk adjustments - Management discussed the balance of sustaining growth in core segments while addressing short-term challenges in nutrition, with expectations for mid-single-digit growth in diagnostics [42][45] Question: Continuous glucose monitor (CGM) market outlook - Management expressed optimism about CGM growth, projecting continued market expansion and penetration opportunities across various patient groups [52][56] Question: Capital allocation and Exact Sciences acquisition - Management confirmed focus on integrating Exact Sciences and maintaining a strong capital allocation strategy, with no immediate changes to dilution expectations [70][72]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Q4 2025, Abbott reported a 3.8% increase in sales when excluding COVID testing sales, with adjusted earnings per share (EPS) of $1.50 reflecting a 12% growth compared to the prior year [19] - The adjusted gross margin was 57.1% of sales, an increase of 20 basis points year-over-year, while adjusted operating margin rose to 25.8%, reflecting a 150 basis point increase [19] - For 2026, Abbott forecasts adjusted EPS in the range of $5.55-$5.80, indicating a 10% growth at the midpoint, and organic sales growth expected to be between 6.5%-7.5% [20] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Nutrition sales declined in Q4 due to market share loss and increased manufacturing costs, with a focus on reigniting volume growth through price and promotion initiatives [9][10] - Diagnostics sales decreased by 3.5% due to a decline in COVID testing, while Core Lab Diagnostics grew by 3.5%, and point-of-care diagnostics saw a 7% increase driven by a new troponin test [12] - The Established Pharmaceutical Division (EPD) experienced a 7% sales increase, with double-digit growth in India and several Latin American and Middle Eastern countries [13] - Medical devices sales grew by 10.5%, with continuous glucose monitors (CGM) sales increasing by 12% in Q4 and 17% for the year, exceeding $7.5 billion [13][14] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The U.S. pediatric nutrition business faced challenges due to a loss of a large WIC contract, impacting overall sales [10] - Core Lab Diagnostics growth was 7% excluding China, reflecting durable demand globally [12] - EPD's growth was well-balanced across markets, with significant contributions from high-demand therapies in emerging markets [13] Company Strategy and Development Direction - Abbott's acquisition of Exact Sciences aims to enhance its position in the cancer diagnostics market, adding a high-growth business to its portfolio [8] - The company is focusing on innovation and operational excellence, with a forecast for 2026 driven by new product launches and strategic execution [8] - Abbott plans to transition its nutrition business back to a volume-driven growth model, emphasizing innovation and product development [11] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged challenges in the nutrition segment due to price sensitivity among consumers and rising manufacturing costs, indicating a need for strategic changes [10][26] - The outlook for 2026 is optimistic, with expectations of accelerating growth driven by a strong product pipeline and the integration of Exact Sciences [30][47] - Management expressed confidence in the ability to navigate short-term challenges in nutrition and return to positive growth in the second half of the year [28][29] Other Important Information - Abbott's investment strategy in medical devices focuses on sustaining strong performance in high-growth segments while also investing in foundational segments [15][16] - The company is committed to maintaining a growing dividend and has a strong balance sheet to support future investments [70] Q&A Session Summary Question: Concerns about revenue growth guidance - Management acknowledged a slight reduction in top-line guidance primarily due to challenges in the nutrition business but maintained EPS guidance in line with consensus [24][25] Question: Insights on the EP product portfolio - Management highlighted the successful launch of the Vault catheter and the strategic positioning of Abbott's EP portfolio, expecting to grow in line with market trends [39] Question: Outlook for diagnostics in China - Management indicated that while growth in China is expected to be stable, the U.S. and other international markets are performing well, with an overall mid-single-digit growth outlook for diagnostics [84] Question: Future of CGM growth - Management expressed optimism about CGM growth, projecting continued market expansion and penetration opportunities across various patient segments [54][58] Question: Capital allocation and M&A strategy - Management emphasized the focus on integrating Exact Sciences post-acquisition while remaining open to smaller tuck-in acquisitions [70][71]