In 2024, CSL Ltd and ResMed CDI have both shown notable performance, with CSL’s share price rising 4.9% since the start of the year and ResMed's trading near its 52-week high. Additionally, another ASX healthcare stock worth noting is Cochlear Ltd, which has demonstrated resilience in the market. This article explores the current trends for these leading companies in the healthcare sector, delving into their business operations, recent stock performance, and key valuation metrics.
CSL Ltd's Steady Growth
In 2024, CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL) has experienced a notable 4.9% increase in its share price since the beginning of the year. This positive movement underscores the company’s robust performance and resilience in the market. As a leading global biotechnology company, CSL is recognized for its innovative medicines that address critical health issues.
CSL operates through three main business units: CSL Behring, CSL Seqirus, and CSL Vifor. CSL Behring is renowned for its blood plasma products, which are essential for treating various health conditions. CSL Seqirus focuses on flu vaccines and pandemic-related services, while CSL Vifor specializes in treatments for iron deficiency and renal care. CSL’s financial strength is reflected in its return on invested capital (ROIC) of 10.30% for FY23 and its revenue growth, which has compounded at an annual rate of 8.7%. These metrics highlight CSL as a stable blue-chip stock with a strong financial foundation.
ResMed CDI’s Strong Performance
ResMed CDI (ASX: RMD) has also shown impressive performance in 2024, with its share price currently just 2% away from its 52-week high. Founded in 1989 and now headquartered in San Diego, California, ResMed is a leader in the field of sleep and respiratory care. The company offers advanced cloud-connected continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines for the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and operates on a global scale with over 10,000 employees.
ResMed’s operations are divided into two main business units: Sleep and Respiratory Care, and Software as a Service (SaaS). The Sleep and Respiratory Care unit provides industry-leading CPAP machines and other respiratory solutions. The SaaS unit supports durable and home medical equipment, enhancing out-of-hospital care through its digital health network.
Share Price Valuation Insights
For CSL Ltd, the current dividend yield stands at approximately 1.20%, slightly below its 5-year average of 1.24%. This indicates that CSL shares are trading at a lower yield compared to their historical average, which may be of interest to income-focused investors.
Both CSL Ltd and ResMed CDI have demonstrated strong performance and resilience in their respective sectors. As such, they present compelling options for investors looking to navigate the current market landscape and assess the value and potential of these prominent stocks.