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HOLX vs. SYK: Which Medical Device Leader Is a Solid Bet Now?
ZACKS· 2026-01-19 13:55
Industry Overview - The global medical device industry is experiencing rapid technological advances and innovations, with the U.S. market projected to grow at a CAGR of 6.8% from 2025 to 2032 [1] - Hologic and Stryker are two prominent players in this sector, focusing on women's health and surgical products respectively [1][2] Hologic Insights - Hologic's market capitalization is currently $16.71 billion, and it is undergoing a buyout process by Blackstone & TPG, which is expected to enhance its growth and technology delivery [2][1] - The Diagnostics division is anticipated to show strong performance driven by U.S. molecular diagnostics sales, particularly from the BV, CV/TV vaginitis assay and Panther Fusion assays [3] - Recent FDA and CE approvals for new diagnostic products, including the Panther Fusion Gastrointestinal Bacterial Assays, signify advancements in Hologic's diagnostic capabilities [3] - The Breast Health segment is expected to benefit from improved U.S. sales execution and the inclusion of Endomagnetics, which may positively impact revenues [4] Stryker Insights - Stryker has a larger market capitalization of $139.1 billion and operates in approximately 75 countries, with strong demand for its capital products expected to continue [2][5] - The company anticipates achieving 10% organic sales growth for the year despite supply-chain disruptions, driven by strong demand for its LIFEPAK 35 monitor/defibrillator [6] - Stryker's recent acquisition of Inari Medical is expected to enhance its position in the high-growth peripheral vascular segment [7] - The Orthopaedics division is likely to see robust growth due to the success of the Insignia Hip Stem and the Mako robotic hip platform [8] Earnings Estimates - Hologic's first-quarter fiscal 2026 earnings are estimated to grow by 5.8% year over year to $1.09, with a slight upward revision in estimates [11] - Stryker's fourth-quarter 2025 earnings are projected to grow by 9.5% year over year to $4.39, with stable estimates over the past 60 days [13] Price Performance and Valuation - Hologic shares have increased by 17.7% over the past six months, while Stryker shares have declined by 6.1% [13] - Hologic trades at a forward two-year P/E of 16.15X, which is lower than its median and compares favorably to Stryker's P/E of 24.14X [15] Conclusion - Hologic is positioned favorably with solid fundamentals and a Zacks Rank 2 (Buy), while Stryker holds a Zacks Rank 3 (Hold) and is expected to demonstrate strong operational performance [16] - Both companies are projected to show year-over-year earnings growth, with Hologic's recent performance and valuation providing it an edge in the market [16]