Company Overview - Baxter International manufactures essential medical products such as surgical sealants and hospital beds, which are crucial for the healthcare industry [2] - The aging baby boomer generation is expected to increase demand for healthcare, thereby boosting demand for Baxter's products [2] Recent Performance - Baxter has faced inconsistent revenue and has reported losses, leading to a significant stock decline of approximately 75% over the past five years [5] - The company recently cut its dividend from $0.17 per share per quarter to a token penny, reflecting its current financial struggles [1][5] Investment Considerations - Despite recent challenges, Baxter's products are deemed necessary, suggesting the company may navigate through its current difficulties [5] - The company maintains a manageable level of debt, covering its interest costs two times over, which provides some financial stability [5] - The stock's valuation appears attractive, with price-to-sales and price-to-book ratios below their five-year averages, indicating it may be undervalued [6] Future Outlook - There is potential for turnaround investors to find value in Baxter, as the demand for its products is expected to grow in the long term [7] - However, recovery may take time and could be uneven, particularly given the recent dividend cut which may deter income-focused investors [7]

Economic Indicators - The November consumer price index (CPI) report is expected to show a 12-month inflation rate of 3.1%, with a core CPI (excluding food and energy) forecasted at an annual rate of 3.0% [2] - The Bureau of Labor Statistics noted that the release will not include 1-month percent changes for November 2025 due to the cancellation of the October inflation report [3] IPO Market - Medline, a medical supply giant, had a successful IPO, with shares jumping 41% on its debut, bringing its market capitalization to approximately $54 billion after opening at $35, up from its $29 IPO price [4] - Over 200 IPOs have been priced this year despite market volatility, marking the largest U.S. listing since Rivian's $13.7 billion deal in November 2021 [5] Corporate Leadership Changes - Glen Hauenstein, president of Delta Air Lines, will retire at the end of February after 20 years with the company, during which he helped position Delta as a leader in profitability [7] - Some of Delta's strategies, such as raising entry requirements for its SkyClubs, have faced customer pushback [8]