Core Viewpoint - Boston Scientific (BSX) is expected to report first-quarter 2025 results on April 23, projecting adjusted earnings between 66-68 cents per share and revenue growth of approximately 17-19% on a reported basis, with organic growth of 14-16% [1] Financial Performance - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for earnings is steady at 67 cents per share, indicating a 19.6% growth from the previous year [2] - BSX has beaten the Zacks Consensus Estimate in the last four quarters, with an average earnings surprise of 8.25% [2] Earnings Expectations - Boston Scientific has an Earnings ESP of 0.00%, indicating a lower chance of beating estimates [3] - The company currently holds a Zacks Rank 3 (Hold) [3] Business Growth Factors - The company experienced above-market growth across all business units in 2024, with expectations of continued momentum in Q1 2025, driven by demand in Electrophysiology and strong global franchises [4] - Asia-Pacific, particularly Japan and China, is expected to perform well, with Japan benefiting from the adoption of AGENT DCB and China projected to grow in the mid-teens despite pricing headwinds [5] Profitability Challenges - Profitability may remain sluggish due to a challenging supply environment, tariff complications, rising labor and raw material costs, and healthcare staffing shortages [6] Segment Performance - The WATCHMAN subsegment is expected to show strong growth, with a consensus revenue estimate of $408.6 million for Q1, reflecting a 16.5% increase year-over-year [8] - Interventional Cardiology is projected to see steady growth, with estimated revenues of $678 million, a 3.9% improvement [9] - Peripheral Interventions are expected to generate $659 million in revenues, indicating a 15% increase [10] - Interventional Oncology and Urology/Pelvic Health are anticipated to show strong growth due to robust product offerings [11] Stock Performance - BSX stock has gained 41.6% over the past year, outperforming its industry and peers like Abbott and Medtronic [14] - The Wall Street average price target for BSX is $118.29 per share, suggesting a 24.2% upside from current levels [19] Valuation Concerns - BSX has a Value Score of D, indicating a stretched valuation, with a forward P/E ratio of 32.19 compared to the industry average of 20.45 [17] - Current shareholders are advised to hold, while new investors may consider waiting for a better entry point [23]

Core Insights - Boston Scientific's fourth-quarter 2024 performance was significantly influenced by its international expansion and strategic acquisitions, which present favorable growth opportunities [1][2][3] - The company's WATCHMAN devices show promising long-term growth potential, with a notable 20% year-over-year sales increase in the fourth quarter [7] Group 1: International Expansion - Boston Scientific is successfully expanding its operations in various international markets, particularly in emerging markets, which are showing strong growth potential [3] - In the Europe, Middle East, and Africa regions, the company is leveraging a diverse product portfolio and new launches to meet healthy market demand [4] - The Asia Pacific region, especially Japan and China, is contributing to growth through innovative products and effective commercial execution [4] Group 2: Strategic Acquisitions - Recent acquisitions, including Cortex, Silk Road, and Axonics, are expected to enhance Boston Scientific's product offerings and drive long-term revenue growth [5][6] - The acquisition of Intera Oncology is anticipated to expand the company's interventional oncology capabilities [6] Group 3: WATCHMAN Device Performance - The WATCHMAN left atrial appendage closure device is gaining momentum, with sales increasing by 20% year over year in the fourth quarter, supported by new procedural guidelines and positive trial data [7] Group 4: Currency Exposure - Boston Scientific faces challenges from currency fluctuations, with 40% of its sales coming from international markets, leading to a projected 100-basis-point headwind on revenues for 2025 [10] Group 5: Financial Performance - The company's shares have increased by 40.6% over the past year, outperforming the industry and S&P 500 [2] - Boston Scientific has consistently beaten earnings expectations over the last four quarters, with an average surprise of 8.25% [2][11]