Boston Scientific (BSX), Silk Road Merger Delayed for Review

Acquisition and Regulatory Update - Boston Scientific voluntarily withdrew and refiled its HSR Filing to allow the FTC additional time to review the proposed acquisition of Silk Road Medical [1] - The acquisition of Silk Road Medical, announced in June 2024, involves a purchase price of $27.50 per share, reflecting an enterprise value of approximately$1.16 billion [2] - The new 30-day waiting period under the HSR Act will commence on Aug 13, 2024, and expire on Sep 12, 2024 [2] Recent Acquisitions by Boston Scientific - In March 2024, the company acquired the Endoluminal Vacuum Therapy portfolio from B Braun [3] - In December 2023, Boston Scientific initiated the acquisition of Axonics for $3.7 billion, aiming to expand its urology portfolio [3] - The company also acquired Relievant Medsystems in late 2023, adding the FDA-approved Intracept Intraosseous Nerve Ablation System to its Neuromodulation portfolio [3] Industry Prospects - The global carotid artery stents market was valued at$559.7 million in 2021 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 3% from 2022 to 2030 [4] - Growth drivers include the rising prevalence of cardiovascular diseases, technological advancements in stent design, and an aging global population [4] - Innovations such as drug-eluting and biodegradable stents are enhancing market potential [4] Price Performance - Boston Scientific's shares have gained 36.1% year-to-date, outperforming the industry's rise of 8.7% and the S&P 500's increase of 17.7% [5] Other Top-Ranked Medical Stocks - Universal Health Service (UHS) has a Zacks Rank 1 (Strong Buy) and has gained 41.1% year-to-date, surpassing the industry's 34.8% rise [6] - Quest Diagnostics (DGX) has a Zacks Rank 2 (Buy) and has gained 3.7% year-to-date, compared to the industry's 10.2% rise [6][7] - ABM Industries (ABM) has a Zacks Rank 2 (Buy) and has risen 24.1% year-to-date, outperforming the industry's 11.9% growth [7]