ABT · Abbott Laboratories

Abbott Laboratories reported second-quarter 2026 results that showed solid underlying performance, with comparable sales growth of 4.8% and adjusted earnings per share of $1.31, up 4.0% year-over-year. Reported sales of $12,593 million were boosted by the addition of Exact Sciences (acquired March 23, 2026) and favorable foreign exchange, but comparable growth—which adjusts for acquisitions, currency, and certain competitor payments—provides a clearer view of organic trends. Medical Devices continued to be a standout, posting 8.4% comparable growth led by Electrophysiology (13.4%), Rhythm Management (9.5%), and Diabetes Care (9.0%), where continuous glucose monitor sales grew 9.5% on a comparable basis. Diagnostics' comparable growth was a modest 2.9%, with Core Laboratory up 3.2% and Cancer Diagnostics (now including Cologuard) growing 13.3%, partially offset by an 8.0% decline in Rapid/Molecular Diagnostics due to lower respiratory virus test sales. Nutrition continued to decline (-3.6% comparable) due to prior-year pricing actions and lower volumes, though sequential improvement was noted. Established Pharmaceuticals delivered strong comparable growth of 8.7%, led by Key Emerging Markets (10.7%). On a GAAP basis, net earnings were $928 million ($0.53 per share) compared to $1,779 million ($1.01 per share) in the prior year, with the decline driven by higher intangible amortization, acquisition-related costs, and legal reserves. Adjusted net earnings rose to $2,290 million from $2,213 million. Management raised full-year 2026 adjusted diluted EPS guidance to $5.45-$5.60 from $5.38-$5.58, while reaffirming comparable sales growth guidance of 6.5%-7.5%. For the third quarter, adjusted EPS is expected in the range of $1.38-$1.46. CEO Robert B. Ford expressed confidence in accelerating growth in the second half, citing building momentum. Abbott also declared a quarterly dividend of $0.63 per share, continuing its 54-year streak of increases. Overall, the results reflect a resilient core business, successful integration of Exact Sciences, and a positive outlook driven by medical device innovation and strong international demand.