J&J-What Analysts Think of Johnson & Johnson Stock Ahead of Earnings

Earnings and Analyst Expectations - Johnson & Johnson (JNJ) is set to report earnings with analysts expecting revenue and profit growth compared to the same period last year [2] - Revenue is expected to rise to $22.51 billion from$ 21.4 billion, and net income to $4.4 billion from$ 4.05 billion in Q4 2023 [3] - Analysts are cautiously optimistic, with 6 out of 12 analysts giving a "buy" rating and 6 giving a "hold" rating, with an average price target of $175 implying 19% upside from Friday's close [2] Stock Performance - Johnson & Johnson shares trended lower from mid-October through the end of 2024, ending the year down nearly 8% [3] - The stock has gained close to 2% in January, closing at$ 147.03 as of Friday [3] Challenges and Risks - The company faces unresolved class action lawsuits related to its talc powder, with hearings scheduled early this year to determine the fate of a subsidiary's bankruptcy plan and a multi-billion dollar settlement [4] - An expiring patent for one of its popular drugs is expected to bring competition [4] - The company's AAA credit rating is at risk due to recent acquisitions, including the $14.6 billion deal to acquire Intra-Cellular Therapies (ITCI), which is expected to be financed with a combination of cash and debt [5] Strategic Moves - Johnson & Johnson made several acquisitions in 2024 and started 2025 with the acquisition of Intra-Cellular Therapies (ITCI) for$ 14.6 billion, expected to close this year [5]