On Aug 29, we issued an updated research report on Radnor, PA-based VWR Corporation VWR which offers laboratory products, services and solutions. The company currently carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy).
We are eagerly waiting for the closing of VWR’s $6.4 billion acquisition by Avantor, a global supplier of ultra-high-purity materials for life sciences and advanced technology industries.
Post-closing (expected in the fourth quarter of 2017), the consolidated entity should create a major consumables-focused solutions and services provider to high-growth life sciences and advanced technologies industries. The buyout will build on Avantor’s strengths, including its cGMP (current good manufacturing practice) processes, a significant exposure to the emerging markets and VWR’s vital position across both Americas as well as Europe.
The combined company will therefore be serving a global customer base in all areas of activities from research through production, thus reflecting a unique advantage in a fast-growing marketplace.
From shareholders’ point of view, this potential merger with Avantor seems a beneficial move at the moment. The consolidation deal has been fixed at $33.25 per share in cash of VWR common stock, representing an enterprise value of approximately $6.4 billion. The purchase price represents an approximate 17% premium to the unaffected closing stock price as of May 2, 2017, the day before market speculations over a potential sale of VWR started.
Notably, the stock price has already inched closer to Avantor’s offer price while investors wait for the merger’s closure. Hence, the short-term upside potential of VWR is limited now.
Other Key Picks
A few other top-ranked medical stocks are Edwards Lifesciences Corporation EW, Lantheus Holdings, Inc. LNTH and IDEXX Laboratories, Inc. IDXX. Edwards Lifesciences sports a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), while Lantheus Holdings and IDEXX Laboratories carry a Zacks Rank #2. You cansee the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.
Edwards Lifesciences has a long-term expected earnings growth rate of 15.2%. The stock has rallied roughly 19.04% over the last six months.
Lantheus Holdings has a long-term expected earnings growth rate of 12.5%. The stock has surged 26.1% over the last six months.
IDEXX Laboratories has a long-term expected earnings growth rate of 19.8%. The stock has gained around 2.3% over the last six months.
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