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a day ago
- Business
- Business Wire
Wave Function™ and Packsmith.ai: Redefining E-Commerce with AI Logistics
NEW BEDFORD, Mass. & LOS ANGELES--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Wave Function™, a New Bedford, MA-based founding partnership company, has invested in a Los Angeles-based, AI-driven third-party logistics (3PL) provider transforming e-commerce fulfillment. This strategic investment supports Packsmith's mission to deliver intelligent, scalable logistics solutions for modern brands. To view the full article, visit redefines traditional 3PL services with an AI-powered platform offering real-time visibility into inventory, supply chain, demand forecasting, and order routing. Unlike conventional logistics, which often suffer from inefficiencies and opaque costs, Packsmith provides 30%–70% faster deliveries, right-sized inventory, and transparent pricing. Its bespoke strategies empower brands to scale seamlessly, replacing fragmented systems with streamlined operations. Key features include: Real-time inventory and supply chain tracking Proactive demand forecasting Intelligent order routing Transparent, no-lock-in pricing Packsmith's predictive analytics minimize waste and optimize shipping, ensuring efficiency and affordability for brands and customers alike. 'We're passionate about supporting Founders who reimagine their industries,' says Al Peters, Founder of Wave Function™. 'Packsmith's platform sets a new standard for e-commerce logistics, and we're thrilled to join Ben and Simon on their journey.' 'Growth comes from reaching all customers better,' says Ben Wunderman, Co-Founder and CEO of 'Our platform delivers faster, more affordable fulfillment for brands.' 'We're proud to earn the trust of exciting names in commerce,' says Simon Robb, Co-Founder and CTO. 'Our technology removes logistical barriers, freeing brands to innovate.' 'Packsmith strengthens the e-commerce ecosystem with bespoke logistics and dedicated support,' says Al Peters. 'It's exciting to be part of their Founders' Journey.' About Wave Function™ WaveFx provides strategic support and flexible funding to purpose-driven founders who are changing the world in technology, healthcare, energy, manufacturing and hospitality. Learn more at About based in Los Angeles, is an AI-powered 3PL provider revolutionizing e-commerce fulfillment with automation, predictive inventory management, and real-time order routing. Learn more at
Yahoo
09-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Hologic Climbs 13% in a Month: How Should You Play the Stock?
After lagging for months, Hologic HOLX has picked up momentum in recent weeks. Shares of the Marlborough, MA-based company have climbed 13.3% over the past month, higher than the industry and the broader Medical sector's gains of 2.4% and 3.4%, respectively. The current price is now 23.9% above the 52-week low of $51.90, boosted in part by reports that Hologic declined a private takeover bid from TPG and Blackstone. HOLX has also managed to outperform two of its key competitors — Exact Sciences EXAS and Becton, Dickinson and Company BDX, or BD, in the same time frame. Image Source: Zacks Investment Research Investor sentiment was already subdued after the release of the company's fiscal 2025 second-quarter earnings in early May. Hologic met adjusted EPS expectations with a modest revenue beat but revised its annual outlook due to the growing tariff impact from China and Costa Rica, funding cuts affecting the Africa business, and a soft capital equipment market. In contrast, Exact Sciences anticipates 'little to no tariff impact' due to all domestic operations, while BD expects $90 million in tariff expenses for fiscal 2025, mostly from China imports. That said, let's explore what might be driving Hologic's recent rally. On May 27, HOLX shares rose nearly 15% following a report from the Financial Times that the company turned down a non-binding offer from private equity (PE) firms TPG and Blackstone. The deal was valued at up to $16.7 billion, including debt. These firms, known for their solid history of healthcare investments, teamed up last year to explore a potential acquisition of Bausch + Lomb, which eventually did not happen. The proposed takeover bid of Hologic would have been one of the largest leveraged buyouts of the year, valuing the company's shares between $70 and $72 — roughly a 30% premium to the May 23 closing price of $54.28. The report also stated that there is a possibility the deal discussions might resume, according to people with knowledge of the matter. Hologic has attracted buyers' attention for a while now. Of late, the take-private activities by PE firms have seen a sharp increase, such as Sycamore Partners' $24 billion deal for Walgreens Boots Alliance, Thoma Bravo's $10.6 billion acquisition of Boeing's software unit, and 3G Capital's $10.5 billion deal for Skechers. Nonetheless, the high premium in the offer signals strong confidence in Hologic's growth potential. The company presented new data showing the significant clinical impact of the Breast Cancer Index ('BCI') test at the 2025 American Society of Clinical Oncology Annual Meeting held on June 2. The molecular, gene expression-based test from Hologic's subsidiary, Biotheranostics, has been a key growth driver in the molecular diagnostics business over the past few quarters. The latest data from the prospective, multi-center BCI Registry Study highlights how this genomic test plays a critical role in guiding extended endocrine therapy decisions for women with early-stage, hormone receptor-positive (HR+) breast cancer. With more than 2,800 patients involved, the study found that BCI testing led to a change in treatment recommendations for about four in 10 cases. Additionally, physicians' confidence in their treatment recommendations got a boost, while patients felt comfortable in their decisions, citing fewer concerns about cost, drug safety and preference related to extended endocrine therapy benefits. Hologic looks attractive from a valuation standpoint. The stock has been trading at a price-to-sales (P/S) of 3.40X over the past five years compared to its median of 4.33X and the industry average of 4.16X. It has a Value Score of B at present. Image Source: Zacks Investment Research Meanwhile, both Exact Sciences and BD are trading at a premium to their industry average, with P/S of 3.16X and 2.20X respectively. Molecular Diagnostics assays are likely to continue to be the principal revenue-generating component in the Diagnostics division. As Hologic drives awareness and reimbursement in the highly unpenetrated U.S. vaginitis market, the BV CV/TV assay is poised to see a strong uptake. Aligning with its long-term revenue diversification strategy, the company's Breast Health service revenues are now larger and growing more steadily than the gantry business. The 2024 acquisition of Endomagnetics boosted the Interventional Breast portfolio with market-leading product lines and strong R&D capabilities for further portfolio expansion. The upcoming launch of innovations like the Envision Mammography Platform is likely to gain a favorable reception. In Surgical, Myosure's strong international growth points to the high demand for minimally invasive options for treating uterine polyps and fibroids. Hologic continues to expand this division both organically and through acquisitions such as Gynsesonics, leveraging its established sales channel. Further, the company is building capabilities to grow internationally on a consistent basis by going directly into more geographies and businesses. A consistently strong profitability has contributed to a fortress balance sheet over time, allowing Hologic to execute on both tuck-in M&A and share repurchases. Based on short-term price targets offered by 15 analysts, the Zacks average price target is $68.13 per share. The average suggests a potential 8.02% upside from last Friday's closing price. Image Source: Zacks Investment Research Hologic has some promising catalysts for long-term expansion, supported by an attractive valuation relative to its industry. However, despite outperforming peers over the past month, the Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) stock is navigating a turbulent macroeconomic landscape, which is expected to weigh on its financial performance in the near term. Hence, those eyeing HOLX may find it wise to wait for a better entry point, while current shareholders should retain their position. You can see the complete list of today's Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here. Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report Becton, Dickinson and Company (BDX) : Free Stock Analysis Report Hologic, Inc. (HOLX) : Free Stock Analysis Report Exact Sciences Corporation (EXAS) : Free Stock Analysis Report This article originally published on Zacks Investment Research ( Zacks Investment Research Sign in to access your portfolio
Yahoo
06-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Why PTC Inc. (PTC) is a Top Value Stock for the Long-Term
It doesn't matter your age or experience: taking full advantage of the stock market and investing with confidence are common goals for all investors. Many investors also have a go-to methodology that helps guide their buy and sell decisions. One way to find winning stocks based on your preferred way of investing is to use the Zacks Style Scores, which are indicators that rate stocks based on three widely-followed investing types: value, growth, and momentum. Different than growth or momentum investors, value-focused investors are all about finding good stocks at good prices, and discovering which companies are trading under what their true value is before the broader market catches on. The Value Style Score utilizes ratios like P/E, PEG, Price/Sales, and Price/Cash Flow to help pick out the most attractive and discounted stocks. Boston, MA-based PTC Inc is a software provider offering a range of cutting-edge digital technologies that collectively revolutionize the engineering, production, and maintenance of tangible goods. Founded in 1985, the company was formerly known as Parametric Technology Corporation and changed its name to PTC Inc in January 2013. PTC sits at a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold), holds a Value Style Score of B, and has a VGM Score of A. Compared to the Computer - Software industry's P/E of 27.8X, shares of PTC Inc. are trading at a forward P/E of 27.8X. PTC also has a PEG Ratio of 1.8, a Price/Cash Flow ratio of 34.6X, and a Price/Sales ratio of 8.6X. Many value investors pay close attention to a company's earnings as well. For PTC, six analysts revised their earnings estimate upwards in the last 60 days, and the Zacks Consensus Estimate has increased $0.25 to $6.03 per share for 2025. Per share PTC boasts an average earnings surprise of 14.6%. Investors should take the time to consider PTC for their portfolios due to its solid Zacks Ranks, notable earnings and valuation metrics, and impressive Value and VGM Style Scores. Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report PTC Inc. (PTC) : Free Stock Analysis Report This article originally published on Zacks Investment Research ( Zacks Investment Research
Yahoo
28-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Why Waters (WAT) is a Top Growth Stock for the Long-Term
For new and old investors, taking full advantage of the stock market and investing with confidence are common goals. Achieving those goals is made easier with the Zacks Style Scores, a unique set of guidelines that rates stocks based on popular investing methodologies, namely value, growth, and momentum. The Style Scores can help you narrow down which stocks are better for your portfolio and which ones can beat the market over the long-term. For growth investors, a company's financial strength, overall health, and future outlook take precedence, so they'll want to zero in on the Growth Style Score. This Score examines things like projected and historical earnings, sales, and cash flow to find stocks that will generate sustainable growth over time. Milford, MA-based, Waters Corp. is an analytical instrument manufacturer and offers practical and sustainable products for laboratory-dependent organizations. Moreover, Waters provides analytical workflow solutions based on mass spectrometry (MS), liquid chromatography (LC) and thermal analysis technologies. WAT boasts a Growth Style Score of A and VGM Score of B, and holds a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) rating. Its bottom-line is projected to rise 8.7% year-over-year for 2025, while Wall Street anticipates its top line to improve by 5.1%. Four analysts revised their earnings estimate upwards in the last 60 days for fiscal 2025. The Zacks Consensus Estimate has increased $0.01 to $12.89 per share. WAT boasts an average earnings surprise of 4%. Looking at cash flow, Waters is expected to report cash flow growth of 4.1% this year; WAT has generated cash flow growth of 4.6% over the past three to five years. Investors should take the time to consider WAT for their portfolios due to its solid Zacks Rank rating, notable growth metrics, and impressive Growth and VGM Style Scores. Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report Waters Corporation (WAT) : Free Stock Analysis Report This article originally published on Zacks Investment Research ( Zacks Investment Research Sign in to access your portfolio
Yahoo
27-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
HOLX vs. DGX: Which Women's Health-Focused Stock Is the Better Pick?
With women's health increasingly becoming a global priority, investors are actively targeting companies operating in this space to boost their portfolios. Research and Markets projects the women's health diagnostics market to expand at a compound annual rate of 9.25% through 2030, driven by technological advancements, increasing healthcare expenditures, and initiatives for early detection of women-specific conditions like reproductive health issues, breast cancer, osteoporosis and more. Two U.S. healthcare innovators, Hologic HOLX and Quest Diagnostics DGX, have established a strong foothold in this space, each with its own areas of specialization. Hologic, with a market cap of $12.10 billion, develops products and services across the women's healthcare continuum, such as advanced diagnostics products, medical imaging systems and surgical products. In comparison, Quest Diagnostics, with a market cap of $19.12 billion, provides a comprehensive portfolio of diagnostic tests for all stages of a woman's life — from routine screenings like cervical cancer and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) to pregnancy and fertility testing. Between these two, which one stands out as the smarter pick now? Let's dive deep into their fundamentals, growth drivers and challenges to find out. The Marlborough, MA-based company benefits from its strategy of building multiple durable growth drivers across all its global franchises. Key offerings include Aptima and Panther Fusion assays for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), vaginitis and respiratory infections. The BV/CV/TV assay shows strong double-digit growth, supported by rising awareness and reimbursement in the U.S. vaginitis market. Molecular growth is further backed by the Biotheranostics business, driven by the rising adoption of the Breast Cancer Index test. However, weaker HIV testing in Africa due to federal funding cuts affected the fiscal 2025 second-quarter performance and is likely to persist. Hologic is seeing strong adoption of the Genius Digital Diagnostics System — the first FDA-cleared digital cytology system for cervical cancer screening, combining novel artificial intelligence (AI) with advanced imaging. However, Q2 International cytology and perinatal sales were impacted by South Korea's physician strike and reduced hospital spending in China. On the MedTech side, the company's mammography products continue to command leading market shares. In the second quarter, recurring service revenues (more than 45% of total Breast Health revenues) rose 12% year over year. The addition of Endomagnetics enhanced its Interventional Breast portfolio, with Hologic now selling its products directly through its U.S. salesforce to tap into wireless localization market opportunities. However, as anticipated, softer capital equipment sales caused the segment's revenues to decline 7.4%. Internationally, the Surgical business continues to be a standout. The company demonstrates sound financial health, with the flexibility to execute both tuck-in M&A and share repurchases. Still, macroeconomic challenges, including the ongoing trade war in China, have affected its 2025 outlook. Tariffs are expected to impact manufacturing costs by $20 million to $25 million per quarter, with two-thirds of it tied to imports from Costa Rica. Based in Secaucus, NJ, Quest Diagnostics is experiencing strong growth in Women's and Reproductive Health, one of its five key clinical areas where it offers Advanced Diagnostics. The growth is largely driven by prenatal and hereditary genetic testing over the past several quarters. In March 2025, the company launched a new solution that allows patients to self-collect a specimen for human papillomavirus (HPV) cervical cancer screening in a physician's office or other healthcare setting. The test uses Roche's RHHBY HPV self-collection solution and builds on Quest Diagnostics' STI-related self-collection option, introduced in October last year. Other clinical areas — advanced cardiometabolic, autoimmune, brain health and oncology — also posted double-digit growth in the first quarter of 2025, contributing to the 12% year-over-year revenue increase. Recent introductions include a laboratory-developed test to confirm Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathology in symptomatic patients and the Haystack MRD — its first circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) minimal residual disease (MRD) test for assessing early risk of cancer recurrence. The company continues expanding the Advanced Diagnostics portfolio to enable growth across its core channels: Physicians, Hospitals and Consumers. In 2024, Quest Diagnostics completed eight acquisitions, including LifeLabs in Canada, and formed new health plan relationships. These favorably impacted both Q1 Diagnostic Information Services sales and adjusted operating income, translating to 8.3% growth in adjusted earnings per share (EPS). The company also became the first independent lab in the Optum Health preferred network. In February, Quest Diagnostics extended its chronic kidney disease test portfolio to include dialysis-related laboratory and water testing capabilities via a new agreement with Fresenius Medical Care FMS. Operationally, Quest Diagnostics is increasing the use of automation, robotics and AI across the business to drive productivity gains and improve user experience. The company teamed up with Google Cloud to streamline data management using generative AI. Despite broader economic pressures, Quest Diagnostics reaffirmed its 2025 revenue and adjusted EPS guidance. Yet, its escalating debt levels are a concern, ending the first quarter with $5.86 billion in long-term debt and just $188 million in cash and cash equivalents. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Hologic's fiscal 2025 sales and EPS implies a year-over-year improvement of 1.2% and 3.2%, respectively. The bottom-line estimates have shown mixed movements in the last 30 days. (See the Zacks Earnings Calendar to stay ahead of market-making news.) Image Source: Zacks Investment Research The Zacks Consensus Estimate for DGX's 2025 sales and EPS suggests a year-over-year improvement of 9.2% and 8.6%, respectively. Analysts seem more bullish on Quest Diagnostics, given the upward EPS estimate revisions in the last 30 days. Image Source: Zacks Investment Research In the past six months, Hologic's shares have plunged significantly, down 31.6%, while the benchmark S&P 500 slipped just 3.2%. In contrast, Quest Diagnostics held its ground with a 4.9% gain. Image Source: Zacks Investment Research Hologic is trading at a forward price-to-sales (P/S) multiple of 2.87X, higher than Quest Diagnostics' 1.75X P/S over the last five years. However, both HOLX and DGX appear discounted when compared to their respective industry averages of 4.04X and 2.71X. Each of them has a Value score of B. Image Source: Zacks Investment Research As a pure-play in women's health, Hologic continues to benefit from its diversified revenue model and growth drivers. International prospects are encouraging, while expanding into new areas through M&A activities instills optimism. While near-term headwinds from both internal and external pressures remain, the company's financial strength and a P/S below the industry suggest potential for long-term stability. For now, holding onto HOLX stock seems like a prudent choice. Meanwhile, Quest Diagnostics, as a clinical laboratory services company, sees strong growth opportunities in the women's and reproductive health space. Steady growth from Advanced Diagnostics and contributions from recent acquisitions are highly promising. Further, the stock's recent favorable performance, attractive valuation and upward analyst estimate revisions make it an equally compelling case to stay invested. HOLX and DGX each carry a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) at present. You can see the complete list of today's Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here. Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report Roche Holding AG (RHHBY) : Free Stock Analysis Report Quest Diagnostics Incorporated (DGX) : Free Stock Analysis Report Hologic, Inc. (HOLX) : Free Stock Analysis Report Fresenius Medical Care AG & Co. KGaA (FMS) : Free Stock Analysis Report This article originally published on Zacks Investment Research ( Zacks Investment Research Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
