EL7.AI
StocksMediumUpdated•Originally published 23 July 2026•Updated 23 July 2026•
2 min read

Quest Diagnostics Q2 Beat Prompts Barclays Price Target Hike and Updated Annual Guidance

Key Facts

1Quest Diagnostics raised its full-year profit forecast after beating second-quarter estimates.
2The growth in profit was driven by strong demand for routine diagnostic testing.
3ServiceNow raised its full-year subscription revenue forecast due to rapid AI product adoption.

In a move reflecting strong operational performance in the healthcare sector, Quest Diagnostics reported second-quarter financial results that exceeded expectations, prompting Barclays to raise its price target for the stock. According to analyst reports, the company posted revenue of $3.04 billion, a 10.2% year-over-year increase, while adjusted earnings per share reached $3.12, surpassing market estimates of $2.83. These results were driven by robust demand for routine testing, reinforcing confidence in the sustainability of the company's core business growth.

Building on this momentum, Quest Diagnostics raised its full-year revenue guidance to a range of $11.95 billion to $12.05 billion, coinciding with Barclays increasing its price target from $230.00 to $250.00, suggesting a potential upside of 9.70%. In a related development, ServiceNow (NOW) continues to bolster technology sector optimism after raising its subscription outlook, with NOW shares closing at $95.46 (close July 22, 2026) per market data, following a session range between $94.74 and $101.16.

Traders should monitor DGX's price action relative to the new $250 target level, especially as NOW shares stabilize at recent levels. Looking at the economic calendar for the next seven days, there are no direct events scheduled for either company, leaving the focus entirely on Quest Diagnostics' ability to meet its updated revenue range and the subsequent impact on investor sentiment within the medical services sector.