Key Takeaways Intuitive Surgical grew 2025 procedures 18% to 3.1M, with revenues up 21% on recurring sales strength.ISRG expanded its da Vinci base 12% and boosted margins despite tariffs and macro pressures.Abbott posted solid device and CGM growth, but Nutrition headwinds may weigh near term.Intuitive Surgical (ISRG) and Abbott Laboratories (ABT) closed 2025 with solid fourth-quarter performances, though their growth trajectories are expected to diverge going forward.Intuitive Surgical remains primarily f ...

Core Insights - The American robotics industry is experiencing significant growth, driven by commercial breakthroughs, venture capital investments, and regulatory advancements, positioning the U.S. as a leader in global automation [2][4]. Industry Overview - Global industrial robot installations reached a record market value of $16.7 billion, indicating robust demand and adoption across various sectors [3]. - The global robotics funding exceeded $10.3 billion in 2025, marking the highest level since 2021, with significant investments in medical and humanoid robotics [4]. - The global medical robots market is projected to grow from $18.32 billion in 2026 to $72.54 billion by 2035, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 16.62% [4]. - The humanoid robotics market is expected to grow at a remarkable CAGR of 39.2%, highlighting the rapid evolution and potential of this segment [4]. Company Highlights - Intuitive Surgical's da Vinci 5 robot received FDA clearance for nine cardiac procedures, expanding its surgical capabilities and driving an 18% increase in da Vinci procedures in 2025 [12]. - Teradyne's robotics division is experiencing growth, with its Universal Robots showcasing a new palletizing solution at CES 2026 and launching ElevateX 2026 in Bengaluru to enhance its presence in Asian markets [13]. - Nvidia is establishing itself as a foundational platform for physical AI and robotics, unveiling a comprehensive robotics stack at CES 2026 and partnering with major manufacturers to drive reindustrialization [14]. - Trimble is enhancing its robotics franchise with precision positioning technologies, integrating its systems into autonomous robotics platforms and expanding its distribution for automated construction robotics [15]. Market Dynamics - The surgical robotics sector is becoming increasingly competitive, with Medtronic's Hugo system receiving FDA clearance and Johnson & Johnson submitting a request for its Ottava system [5]. - The elder care assistive robotics market is projected to grow from $3.38 billion in 2025 to $9.85 billion by 2034, driven by aging demographics and increasing demand for assistive technologies [6]. - Collaborative robotics are gaining traction, with nearly half of U.S. small and medium manufacturers now integrating collaborative robots (cobots), up from 27% two years ago [7]. - The U.S. Army's launch of an AI and machine learning officer specialty and the Pentagon's $13.4 billion budget for autonomous systems underscore the growth potential in defense and space robotics [8]. Investment Outlook - Despite trade tensions, there is a push for domestic manufacturing investments, and the convergence of private capital and policymakers is creating a favorable environment for robotics investments [9]. - The current landscape presents a timely entry point for investors, with physical AI becoming essential and humanoid robots being deployed in various environments [9].

Intuitive Surgical, Inc. (NASDAQ:ISRG) is one of the 10 best healthcare equipment stocks to buy according to hedge funds. On January 27, Freedom Capital increased the price target on Intuitive Surgical, Inc. (NASDAQ:ISRG) from $560 to $610, and also upgraded its rating on the stock from Hold to Buy. The upward revision in the target price now leads to more than 11% upside potential at the prevailing level. Da Vinci 5 Sparks Optimism Around Intuitive Surgical, Inc. (ISRG) The firm attributed its rating u ...

Core Insights - Intuitive Surgical (ISRG) shares have decreased by 13.5% over the past three months, despite strong procedure growth and the adoption of the da Vinci 5 system in Q4 2025 [1][8] - The company's stock has underperformed compared to peers like Medtronic (MDT) and Johnson & Johnson (JNJ), which saw gains of 5.8% and 22.6% respectively [2] - The key question remains whether the fundamentals of Intuitive Surgical support a hold rating [2] Procedure Growth - Management projects a 13-15% global growth in da Vinci procedures for 2026, driven by U.S. general surgery and international market expansion [3][8] - In 2025, procedures outside the U.S. increased by 23%, making up approximately 35% of global volume, indicating improved market access and training [3] - The full commercial rollout of da Vinci 5 is expected to be a significant catalyst for growth in 2026, with utilization rates increasing [4][8] Platform Performance - The SP platform experienced an 87% growth in procedures in 2025, aided by new U.S. clearances and international uptake [5] - Ion procedures grew by 51% globally, with a focus on deeper penetration of the installed base [5] Competitive Landscape - Medtronic is investing in robotic-assisted surgery but is still early in its adoption curve compared to ISRG [11] - Johnson & Johnson is progressing towards broader robotic offerings, while Stryker has a strong position in orthopedics but is limited in soft-tissue procedures [12] Financial Outlook - Earnings estimates for Intuitive Surgical for 2026 have increased by 7% to $10.03 per share, and for 2027 by 5.6% to $11.40, indicating bullish sentiment [13] - The company anticipates gross margins of 67-68% for 2026, facing headwinds from tariffs and a higher mix of da Vinci 5 systems [14][18] Valuation - Intuitive Surgical is currently trading at a forward P/E ratio of 48.68X, which is lower than its five-year median of 71.27X but significantly higher than the industry average of 26.96X [18] Investment Recommendation - The fourth-quarter performance and 2026 outlook support a high-quality growth narrative for Intuitive Surgical, driven by procedure expansion and platform innovation [19] - Despite margin pressures, the company's scale and clinical leadership position it well for long-term value compounding [20]

Core Insights - Intuitive Surgical (ISRG) reported strong 2025 results, with total revenues increasing by 20.5% year over year to $10.1 billion and adjusted earnings per share rising by 21.7% to $8.93, driven by higher procedure volumes and increased utilization of its robotic systems [1][10] Financial Performance - Total revenues for 2025 reached $10.1 billion, marking a 20.5% increase year over year [1] - Adjusted earnings per share were $8.93, reflecting a 21.7% growth [1] - The company treated over 3.1 million patients in 2025, an 18% increase from the previous year [1] Growth Drivers - The growth was primarily fueled by higher procedure volumes, supported by an expanding installed base and increased utilization of da Vinci platforms, which saw a global utilization increase of 3% [1] - The Instruments and accessories segment experienced an 18.5% sales growth, driven by the adoption of the da Vinci 5 robotic system and its expansion into new surgical indications [2] Future Outlook - For 2026, Intuitive Surgical anticipates worldwide procedure growth of approximately 13-15%, which is lower than the growth rate in 2025 but reflects an upward revision from previous expectations [5][10] - The company plans to focus on global expansion of its robotic platforms, particularly the da Vinci 5, and will increase investments in training, commercial execution, and market access [3] - The recent FDA clearance for da Vinci 5 for certain cardiac procedures is expected to expand the total addressable market by approximately 160,000 procedures annually [3] Product Development - Intuitive Surgical intends to introduce additional products and features in 2026 to enhance the capabilities of the da Vinci 5 system, potentially driving further growth in procedure volumes [4] Market Position - ISRG's stock has seen a 0.9% increase over the past six months, compared to a 2.8% growth for the industry [9] - The company trades at a forward price-to-earnings ratio of 47, which is above the industry average but lower than its five-year median of 71.33 [11]

FDA 510(k) clearance expands da Vinci 5 indications to include certain cardiac proceduresSUNNYVALE, Calif., Jan. 26, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Intuitive (NASDAQ: ISRG), a global technology leader in minimally invasive care and the pioneer of robotic-assisted surgery, today announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has cleared the da Vinci 5 system for certain cardiac procedures, including mitral valve repair and IMA (internal mammary artery) mobilization for cardiac revascularization. Cardi ...

Investment Rating - The report maintains an "Overweight" rating for Intuitive Surgical (ISRG) and Boston Scientific (BSX) in the large-cap category, while Insulet (PODD) is highlighted as a top pick among small to mid-cap companies [15][17][18]. Core Insights - The healthcare sector is projected to experience revenue growth of approximately 6% in 2026, driven by healthy volumes and demographic trends [15]. - The report indicates that the MedTech sector is currently facing challenges with muted new money interest, as investor focus has shifted towards technology and AI stocks [11]. - Despite some negative pre-announcements from companies, there are positive indicators from firms like ISRG and BSX, suggesting a cautiously optimistic outlook for the sector [9][10]. Summary by Sections Healthcare Sector Snapshot - Healthcare stocks in the S&P 500 have shown a slight increase of 0.5% year-to-date, underperforming compared to the S&P 500's 1.4% [7]. - Key performers within the healthcare sector include Labs (+8.6%), CROs (+6.3%), and Lifescience Tools (+5.2%), while Biotech (-0.7%) and Large Pharma (-1.8%) lag behind [7]. Key Takeaways from the Conference - The conference revealed a mix of pre-announcements, with ISRG and DXCM performing better than expected, while ATEC and ENOV faced challenges [9]. - There is a notable interest in surgical robotics and diabetes management, with companies like MDT and BSX leading in these areas [12]. Sector Outlook for 2026 - The report forecasts EPS growth of around 7% for 2026, emphasizing the importance of high-quality companies with strong earnings visibility [15]. - The anticipated growth in the MedTech sector is supported by ongoing innovation and favorable demographic trends, despite potential budget constraints in healthcare [15]. Top Picks - The report identifies ISRG and BSX as top large-cap picks, citing their strong growth potential and innovative product pipelines [15][17]. - Among small to mid-cap companies, Insulet (PODD) is highlighted for its robust sales growth and market position in diabetes management [18].

Core Insights - Intuitive has achieved a significant milestone with over 20 million patients operated on using da Vinci surgical systems, reflecting the global dedication of surgeons and care teams to improve patient outcomes through minimally invasive technologies [1][2][3] Company Overview - Intuitive, headquartered in Sunnyvale, California, is a leader in minimally invasive care and robotic-assisted surgery, with technologies including the da Vinci surgical system and the Ion endoluminal system [6] - The company envisions a future of care that is less invasive and more effective, focusing on early disease identification and rapid treatment [6] Milestone Achievement - As of the end of 2025, more than 3.1 million da Vinci procedures were performed in the previous year, indicating a growing adoption and access to Intuitive's technology [2] - The achievement is attributed to the commitment of healthcare professionals to provide high-quality care [3] Innovation and Technology - Intuitive's robotic-assisted platforms are designed to enhance clinical outcomes, improve patient experiences, reduce care costs, and expand access to minimally invasive care [4] - The latest da Vinci 5 system offers over 10,000 times the computing power of its predecessor, enhancing patient care capabilities [8] - The Ion platform was utilized for over 140,000 lung biopsies in 2025, aiding in early lung cancer diagnosis [8] Future Focus - The company emphasizes its commitment to future innovations and the potential to impact more patients positively [5]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Revenue grew 21% year over year to $10.1 billion, with operating margins at 37% reflecting investments in R&D and manufacturing scale [8][16][29] - Proforma EPS increased 22%, marking the third consecutive year of growth above 20% [16] - Free cash flow rose to $2.5 billion, up from $1.3 billion in 2024 [16] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total procedures grew 19%, with da Vinci procedures increasing 17% and Ion procedures growing 51% [5][16] - Single-port procedures grew 87%, while multi-port procedures increased 17% [5][11] - In Q4, da Vinci procedures in the U.S. increased 15% to over 2 million, while international procedures grew 23% [6][19] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - U.S. procedures increased 16%, with da Vinci procedures growing 15% and Ion procedures growing 41% [17] - Internationally, da Vinci procedures grew 21%, with notable growth in Canada, India, Korea, and various European markets [20][21] - Japan's procedure growth was lower than expected due to capital placement challenges, with potential reimbursement changes anticipated in 2026 [21] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company focuses on four strategic priorities: launching da Vinci 5, increasing adoption of focused procedures, building industrial scale, and enhancing digital tools [4][13] - Plans to expand into ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs) and enhance training and support for customers [19][56] - Continued investment in market access activities and local evidence generation to meet clinical and economic objectives [6][7] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management believes the company is in the early stages of advancing minimally invasive care, with significant growth opportunities ahead [4][78] - Anticipated da Vinci procedure growth for 2026 is projected between 13%-15%, driven by general surgery and international procedures [36] - Expected gross profit margin for 2026 is projected to be between 67% and 68% of net revenue, with various factors impacting this guidance [37] Other Important Information - The company placed 1,721 da Vinci systems in 2025, including 870 da Vinci 5 systems [7][23] - The installed base of da Vinci systems increased by 12% to over 11,100 systems, with average system utilization rising by 4% [17][26] - The company plans to introduce additional products and features for da Vinci 5 in 2026 [10] Q&A Session Summary Question: FDA approvals for cardiac non-force feedback instruments - Management discussed the importance of supporting cardiac surgery and the foundational work being done, including training pathways and developing cardiac-specific instrumentation [41][42][44] Question: Advanced imaging features in the robotic ecosystem - Management explained that advanced imaging capabilities are being developed, which will add revenue streams and improve surgical outcomes [48][49] Question: ASC opportunity and key procedures - Management highlighted the growing ASC opportunity, focusing on high-quality clinical outcomes and the need for repeatable procedures [53][55] Question: Gross margin and operating expenses assumptions - Management provided insights into the dynamics affecting gross margin, including higher trade-ins and the mix of da Vinci 5 systems [64][66] Question: Competition in China - Management acknowledged increased competition in China but expressed confidence in their ability to compete effectively with local robotic companies [68][70]

Core Viewpoint - Intuitive Surgical, Inc. (ISRG) is expected to report strong fourth-quarter 2025 earnings, with preliminary results indicating significant growth in procedures and revenues, although pricing pressures and tariffs may impact margins [2][3][10]. Financial Performance - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for ISRG's fourth-quarter sales is $2.87 billion, with earnings per share (EPS) estimated at $2.25 [2]. - Preliminary fourth-quarter revenues are projected at approximately $2.87 billion, reflecting a 19% increase year-over-year [3]. - ISRG has maintained stable EPS estimates of $8.65 for 2025 and $9.61 for 2026 over the past month [2]. Growth Metrics - The company reported an 18% growth in procedures globally, with a 4% increase in average da Vinci system utilization [3][10]. - A total of 532 da Vinci surgical systems were placed in the fourth quarter, including 303 da Vinci 5 systems, contributing to strong demand [3][12]. Segment Performance - The Instruments & Accessories (I&A) segment saw a 17% revenue growth in the fourth quarter, supported by the increase in procedures, although pricing pressure was noted [8][10]. - The Systems segment benefited from strong demand for da Vinci 5, with average selling prices (ASPs) for da Vinci systems reaching at least $1.6 million [12]. Competitive Landscape - Intuitive Surgical's close peers, Thermo Fisher Scientific and Boston Scientific, are also set to announce their quarterly results, with ISRG having outperformed them in terms of earnings surprises in recent quarters [4][5]. Valuation Insights - ISRG is currently trading at a forward 12-month P/E of 55.21X, which is above the industry average of 30.02X, indicating a premium valuation despite a decrease from a five-year high [19]. - The company's high valuation reflects its growth prospects, although it is currently rated with a Value score of D, indicating concerns about its valuation level [19]. Future Outlook - The company is expected to sustain strong top-line performance through 2026, driven by da Vinci procedure growth and the adoption of the Ion platform [21]. - However, ongoing challenges in pricing, particularly in China and for ambulatory surgery centers in the U.S., may temper growth [9][22]. - Geopolitical tensions and tariff issues could also pose risks to global performance, although domestic revenues are somewhat insulated due to key manufacturing operations in the U.S. and Mexico [23].