On the stock market since 1990, it operates in the world of health and science. It has 71,000 employees. Now — the numbers.
This is an established company with proven profits.
No real growth (2% a year).
The gap is $6.7B. In times of high interest rates, a gap like that can squeeze a company.
We compared this company with its own sector across five subjects.
A score of 50 means class average.
Clearly above the class average — a step short of the very top.
Clearly below the class average.
Clearly above the class average — a step short of the very top.
There is growth, but not at top-of-the-class tempo.
Clearly above the class average — a step short of the very top.
Financial Strength: The cash-and-debt balance is thin; the buffer for hard times is slim.
The stock trades near its peak today. For long-term holders the ride has paid off so far — though past performance guarantees nothing about the future.
It met or beat analyst expectations in 8 of the last 8 quarters — consistency is a promise kept.
It pays out $2.88 per share each year — regular cash for whoever holds the stock.
The balance sheet offers little cushion against a rough stretch. Report-card grade: 40/100.
On our five-subject report card, LH sits near the top of the class. A high grade doesn’t mean “guaranteed win” — it means “the evidence looks strong for now.”
The takeaway: LH is an established business that has proven its profits for years. The real debate here isn’t the price — it’s whether the company can keep up this pace.
The total grade weighs these five subjects against the sector — it isn’t a simple average of the five.