Question · Q3 2025
Travis Lee Steed questioned the sustainability of Abbott's device business's double-digit growth over 10+ quarters, considering underlying procedure market growth and pipeline. He also asked about the company's balance sheet, M&A strategy, cash utilization, and future portfolio assets.
Answer
Chairman and CEO Robert Ford affirmed the sustainability of device growth, explaining that historically flat segments like CRM and vascular have been repositioned to mid-single-digit or double-digit growth, complementing high-growth areas like diabetes, EP, and structural heart. He stated that Abbott actively uses its cash for dividends, share buybacks, debt paydown ($3 billion next year), and internal investments. He noted a strong organic pipeline allows for selective M&A, with capacity for strategic opportunities.