Abbott Laboratories Secures Major Acquisition with Shareholder Approval

Abbott Laboratories clears final hurdle to acquire Exact Sciences for $105/share, valued at $21B, bolstering its diagnostics portfolio while maintaining its Dividend Aristocrat status.

Abbott Laboratories has cleared a decisive hurdle in its strategic expansion, receiving overwhelming shareholder support for its planned acquisition of Exact Sciences. The move signals a significant consolidation within the diagnostics sector and underscores Abbott's commitment to growth through strategic mergers.

Shareholders Give Resounding Approval

The final, critical step preceding the merger's completion was secured on Friday. During a special meeting, Exact Sciences shareholders voted decisively in favor of the transaction, with more than 99% of the votes cast supporting the deal. This approval grants Abbott the go-ahead to acquire the company at a price of $105.00 per share in cash. The transaction values Exact Sciences' equity at approximately $21 billion.

With this vote, the path is now clear for Abbott to integrate a high-growth diagnostics business. Exact Sciences reported revenue of $3.25 billion in 2025, representing an 18% year-over-year increase. This robust growth profile is a key factor behind Abbott's willingness to pay a premium valuation to enhance its own diagnostic capabilities and market position.

A Dual Focus: Aggressive Growth and Reliable Income

While pursuing this aggressive expansion, Abbott continues to reinforce its reputation as a dependable holding for income-focused investors. In a concurrent announcement, the company declared a quarterly dividend of $0.63 per share. This marks the 409th consecutive quarterly payout by Abbott, a streak that extends uninterrupted back to 1924. Furthermore, the company has increased its annual dividend for 54 consecutive years, solidifying its standing as a "Dividend Aristocrat" within the S&P 500 index.

Financial Outlook and Market Reaction

Looking ahead to 2026, Abbott's management has provided operational guidance. The company forecasts organic sales growth in the range of 6.5% to 7.5%. Adjusted earnings per share are projected to land between $5.55 and $5.80.

The market's immediate reaction to the shareholder vote was muted. Abbott's shares ended trading on Friday essentially flat at €95.21. This price level leaves the equity down approximately 10% since the start of the year.

Path to Completion

The formal closing of the acquisition is anticipated before the conclusion of the second quarter of 2026. The process is now contingent only upon receiving the remaining necessary regulatory approvals and the satisfaction of other customary closing conditions. Once these final steps are fulfilled, the full integration of Exact Sciences into Abbott's operations will commence.