StocksHigh ImpactUpdated×9•Originally published 16 April 2026•Updated 18 April 2026•

1 min read

Abbott Acquires Exact Sciences for $23 Billion in Major Diagnostics Deal

Key Facts

1Abbott Laboratories acquired Exact Sciences for $21 billion, marking the largest diagnostic transaction in two years.

2The deal aims to strengthen Abbott's portfolio in colorectal cancer screening.

3Abbott shares are currently trading below estimated fair value and analyst price targets.

Abbott Laboratories continues to navigate market shifts as UBS analysts maintain a $115.00 price target despite a recent revision in long-term guidance. Although Abbott's Q1 2026 earnings beat initial estimates, analysts have slashed the company's full-year 2026 earnings outlook below previous expectations. The company remains focused on integrating its $23 billion acquisition of Exact Sciences, supported by a 13.2% growth in its Medical Devices segment. Meanwhile, Bank of New York Mellon (BK) reported first-quarter 2026 financial results that exceeded market expectations, signaling strength in the broader financial services sector. Investors are weighing Abbott's strong divisional performance against the lowered long-term earnings forecasts.

5 months ago

Version History

2 additional sources confirmed this story

Version 95 months ago

What changed: The story was updated to reflect analysts lowering Abbott's 2026 earnings outlook despite a Q1 beat, and to include Bank of New York Mellon's better-than-expected Q1 2026 financial results.

Version 85 months ago

What changed: Updated the story to include the new UBS price target, specific growth metrics for Medical Devices and Diabetes segments, revised full-year earnings guidance, and year-to-date stock performance.

Version 75 months ago

What changed: Updated the story to include BTIG raising the price target to $131 and management's guidance for accelerated sales growth in the second half of the year.

Version 65 months ago

What changed: Updated to reflect the 3.2% share price drop, the marginal earnings beat, and the company's warning regarding a hit to the 2026 earnings outlook.

Version 55 months ago

What changed: Abbott lowered its annual profit guidance due to acquisition costs and weaker diagnostic sales caused by a mild flu season.

Version 45 months ago

What changed: New analyst coverage introduces a $126 price target and identifies a 10-year low valuation entry point, while quantifying the specific $0.20 EPS dilution expected in 2026 from the acquisition.

Version 35 months ago

What changed: Updated with actual Q1 revenue figures, softer Q2 earnings guidance, and the confirmed closing date of the Exact Sciences acquisition.

Version 25 months ago

What changed: Updated the story to reflect a 4% stock decline and identified specific drivers including margin pressure and weakness in the Nutrition segment.

Version 15 months ago

What changed: Updated the acquisition value to $23 billion and added details regarding the 3.2% share price drop driven by a lowered 2026 outlook and the dilutive impact of the deal.