J. Safra Sarasin Holding AG has notably expanded its investment portfolio by increasing its stake in Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. This strategic move, detailed in their latest SEC filing for the first quarter, underscores a significant vote of confidence in the medical research giant.
The Swiss private banking group acquired an additional 844 shares, boosting their total holdings in Thermo Fisher Scientific by 2.5%. This acquisition elevated their ownership to an impressive 35,255 shares, valued at approximately $17,544,000 at the close of the most recent reporting period.
Beyond J. Safra Sarasin, other prominent institutional investors and hedge funds have also adjusted their positions in Thermo Fisher Scientific. Notably, Bernard Wealth Management Corp., Ameriflex Group Inc., IMA Advisory Services Inc., Navigoe LLC, and Smallwood Wealth Investment Management LLC are among those who initiated new stakes or increased existing ones, collectively affirming strong institutional interest, with these entities holding 89.23% of the company’s stock.
Analyzing the stock’s performance, Thermo Fisher Scientific shares recently opened at $462.74. The company maintains a 50-day moving average of $420.88 and a 200-day moving average of $467.66. Its financial health indicators include a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.65, a quick ratio of 1.50, and a current ratio of 1.93, suggesting a robust balance sheet.
Shareholders can also anticipate a quarterly dividend. The company recently announced a $0.43 per share dividend, payable on October 15th to stockholders of record by September 15th. This translates to an annualized dividend of $1.72 and a dividend yield of 0.4%, with a payout ratio currently at 9.95%.
Recent insider activity also caught attention, as an Executive Vice President sold 400 shares on July 25th for $191,992.00. This transaction marginally decreased their overall ownership by 1.76%, though they still retain a substantial 22,367 shares, valued at over $10.7 million, signaling continued vested interest from within the company.
Equities analysts have largely maintained a positive outlook on Thermo Fisher Scientific. Firms like Raymond James Financial and Goldman Sachs Group have reiterated “outperform” or “buy” ratings, adjusting price targets upwards. While some, like Royal Bank Of Canada, slightly lowered targets, and Hsbc Global Res moved to a “hold,” the overall consensus remains a “Moderate Buy” with an average price target of $593.00, reflecting optimism among market watchers.
Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. itself is a global leader, providing essential life sciences solutions, analytical instruments, specialty diagnostics, and laboratory products across North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and beyond. Their diverse segments, including biosciences and genetic sciences, cater to critical sectors such as pharmaceutical, biotechnology, healthcare, and government, solidifying their market presence.
The collective actions of major institutional investors, coupled with a solid financial standing and positive analyst sentiments, indicate a continued trajectory of interest and potential stability for Thermo Fisher Scientific in the competitive medical research and technology market.
