Abbott Laboratories reported fourth-quarter revenue of $11.46 billion, up 4.4% year-over-year, and non-GAAP earnings per share of $1.50, matching consensus forecasts. Net margin expanded to 14.7%, while return on equity reached 17.9%, reflecting ongoing cost-efficiency measures. Despite a softer top line, Abbott maintained positive bottom-line momentum, driven by strength in its Medical Devices and Established Pharmaceuticals segments.

The Medical Devices segment delivered robust double-digit growth, led by continuous glucose monitoring systems, which grew approximately 12% in the quarter. Established Pharmaceuticals posted gains of around 9%, offsetting weakness elsewhere. The Nutrition business declined sharply by 8–9%, and COVID-19 diagnostics revenues continued to contract, exerting downward pressure on overall sales and prompting management to emphasize product innovation and market normalization strategies in underperforming units.

Management reiterated its full-year outlook for fiscal 2026, targeting sales growth of 6.5%–7.5% and adjusted EPS of $5.55–$5.80. This guidance implies mid-single-digit revenue gains in Nutrition as the portfolio stabilizes, alongside continued double-digit expansion in Medical Devices and mid-high single-digit growth in Established Pharmaceuticals. Cost-containment initiatives and a disciplined R&D pipeline underpin the forecasted 7% top-line and 10% earnings growth trajectory for 2025–2026.

Abbott’s board approved a 7% quarterly dividend hike to $0.63 per share, up from $0.59, marking the 51st consecutive year of dividend growth. The annualized payout of $2.52 yields approximately 2.3%, while the company’s 67.7% payout ratio underscores a balanced capital-return approach. Institutional investors such as Vanguard and State Street hold over 250 million combined shares, signaling confidence in Abbott’s sustainable cash flow and shareholder distribution strategy.