Agilent Raises 2026 Profit Forecast on Strong Demand

Agilent Technologies Raises 2026 Profit Forecast

Agilent Technologies (NYSE: A) raised its 2026 adjusted profit forecast on Wednesday, anticipating strong demand for its medical tools and equipment used in lab research and diagnostic services.

Stock Performance and Market Reaction

Shares of the life sciences firm rose more than 10% in after-hours trading. The move comes as U.S. life sciences and lab-equipment makers show signs of recovery after years of uneven demand and tight biotech funding.

Financial Outlook

The company now expects annual adjusted per-share profit of $6.00 to $6.10, up from its prior forecast of $5.90 to $6.04. Analysts' average expectation is $5.97 per share, according to LSEG data.

CEO Padraig McDonnell said the company factored in additional assumptions including rising cost pressures from the Middle East conflict and strong demand for memory chips, which have tightened supply chains and increased component prices. However, efficiencies from its cost-cutting program are expected to offset these pressures in the second half of the year.

Quarterly Results

For the second quarter, Agilent reported adjusted profit of $1.49 per share, beating estimates of $1.41. Revenue came in at $1.83 billion, above the consensus estimate of $1.80 billion. Life sciences and diagnostics segment sales reached $732 million, exceeding expectations of $694.7 million. CrossLab unit revenue rose 6% to $759 million.