What's Happening with JNJ
Diversified healthcare company Johnson & Johnson (JNJ) reports fourth quarter numbers before the market opens on January 28. Analysts expect earnings of $1.87 per share, versus $1.97 during the same period last year. The stock has risen 7.1% since the end of June.
Technical Analysis
JNJ was recently trading at $148.88 down $0.15 from its 12 month high and $23.88 above its 12 month low. InvestorsObserver's Stock Score Report gives JNJ a 73 long-term technical score and a 59 short-term technical score. The stock has recent support above $144 and recent resistance below $149. Of the 14 analysts who cover the stock 9 rate it Strong Buy, 1 rate it Buy, 4 rate it Hold, 0 rate it Sell, and 0 rate it Strong Sell, JNJ gets a score of 61 from InvestorsObserver's Stock Score Report.
Analysts' Thoughts
Johnson & Johnson is currently trading at its all-time high, and another strong quarterly report should push shares even higher. The company has a great earnings track record with positive surprises dating back to the third quarter 2012. Revenues have topped estimates for nine straight quarters. Ahead of the upcoming report the street expects another positive earnings surprise with a whisper number of $1.92 for the quarter. The stock remains a solid value with a forward P/E of 16.3 and analysts forecast profits to rise at an annual rate of 5.9% per annum over the next five years. JNJ's profit growth is slowing from the last five years when profits rose at an annual rate of 9.9% but given the low valuation the profit growth should be enough to keep the stock hitting record highs. Analysts have an average price target of $156.69.