Align Tech Stock (NASDAQ:ALGN), Trade Ideas

Align Tech

Align Technology is the leading manufacturer of clear aligners. Invisalign, its main product, was approved by the Food and Drug Administration in 1998 and has since dominated, controlling over 90% of the market. Invisalign can treat roughly 90% of all malocclusion cases (misaligned teeth), and there are over 230,000 Invisalign-trained dentists and orthodontists. In 2022, Invisalign treated over 2 million cases, or roughly 10% of all orthodontic cases for the year, and it has treated over 14 million patients since its launch. Align also sells intraoral scanners under the brand iTero, which captures digital impressions of patients' teeth and illustrates treatment plans. Over 85% of Invisalign cases are submitted by digital scans, and iTero scans make up over half of these scans.

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INSP

Inspire Medical Systems, Inc. (NYSE: INSP) delivered a loss per share of 34 cents in first-quarter 2024, narrower than the year-ago period&#39;s loss of 53 cents per share. The metric was also narrower than the Zacks Consensus Estimate of a loss of 63 cents per share.

Inspire Medical Q1 Earnings Beat, Gross Margin Up

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After ending January with modest gains, the major averages now look to earnings catalysts to drive momentum, with futures higher in first trading session of February.

Nasdaq Futures Rebound As Traders Eye Apple, Meta, Amazon Earnings: Analyst Flags &#39;January Barometer&#39; That Bodes Well For The Year

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Align&#39;s fourth-quarter revenue increased 6.1% year-over-year to $956.7 million, which beat the consensus estimate of $933.67 million, according to Benzinga Pro. The company reported quarterly adjusted earnings of $2.42 per share, which beat analyst estimates of $2.18 per share.

Align Technology Q4 Earnings: Revenue Beat, EPS Beat, Strong Guidance And More

Align Technology Inc

Inspire Medical Systems, Inc. (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/insp#NYSE">INSP</a>) delivered a loss per share of 34 cents in first-quarter 2024, narrower than the year-ago period&#39;s loss of 53 cents per share. The metric was also narrower than the Zacks Consensus Estimate of a loss of 63 cents per share.
<h3>Revenues in Detail</h3>
Inspire Medical registered revenues of $164 million in the first quarter, up 28.2% year over year. The figure beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 1.5%.
Per management, the top-line growth was driven by increased market penetration in existing centers, expansion into new territories and increased physician and patient awareness of the Inspire therapy. The top line also benefited from strength in U.S. revenues and revenues outside the United States.
<h3>Segment Details</h3>
Inspire Medical&#39;s operations consist of two geographic regions &mdash; the United States and All other countries.
For the quarter under review, U.S. revenues of $155.8 million reflected an increase of 25% from the year-ago quarter on a reported basis. Per management, this upside reflects an increased position in patient awareness, increased market penetration in existing centers and expansion into new implanting centers in the United States and new U.S. sales territories.
During the reported quarter, Inspire Medical activated 66 new U.S. centers, thus bringing the total to 1,246 U.S. medical centers providing Inspire therapy. The company also created 11 new U.S. sales territories in the quarter, bringing the total to 298 U.S. sales territories.
Revenues from outside the United States totaled $8.2 million, up 141% year over year on a reported basis. This was primarily driven by a strong rebound in Europe, especially in Germany, since receiving derogation late in the fourth quarter.
<div class="chart_embed">
<h3>Inspire Medical Systems, Inc. Price, Consensus and EPS Surprise</h3>
<a href="https://www.zacks.com/stock/chart/INSP/price-consensus-eps-surprise-chart?icid=chart-INSP-price-consensus-eps-surprise-chart"><img alt="Inspire Medical Systems, Inc. Price, Consensus and EPS Surprise" src="https://staticx-tuner.zacks.com/images/charts/11/1715177623.png" style="height:266px; width:620px" title="" /> </a>
Inspire Medical Systems, Inc. price-consensus-eps-surprise-chart | Inspire Medical Systems, Inc. Quote
</div>
<h3>Margin Analysis</h3>
In the first quarter, Inspire Medical&#39;s gross profit increased 28.9% to $139.3 million. The gross margin expanded 46 basis points to 84.9%.
Selling, general and administrative expenses jumped 23.2% to $125.6 million. Research and development expenses increased 13.1% year over year to $28.9 million. Operating expenses of $154.5 million increased 21.1% year over year.
Operating loss totaled $15.2 million, narrower than the prior-year quarter&#39;s operating loss of $19.5 million.
<h3>Financial Position</h3>
Inspire Medical exited first-quarter 2024 with cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments of $441.4 million compared with $460.4 million at 2023-end.
Net cash provided by operating activities at the end of first-quarter 2024 was $8.9 million against net cash used in operating activities of $1.3 million a year ago.
<h3>Outlook</h3>
Inspire Medical has revised its outlook for 2024. It has also initiated its earnings per share (ETF:EPS) guidance for the same period.
The company now projects revenues in the range of $783 million-$793 million (representing growth of 25-27% from 2023 levels), up from the previous outlook of $775 million-$785 million (reflecting growth of 24-26% from 2023 levels). The Zacks Consensus Estimate is pegged at $782.9 million.
Inspire Medical reiterated its plans to open 52-56 new U.S. medical centers providing Inspire therapy and add 12-14 new U.S. sales territories during each quarter of 2024.
The company expects its EPS for 2024 between 10 and 20 cents.
<h3>Our Take</h3>
Inspire Medical exited the first quarter of 2024 with better-than-expected results. The robust improvement of the top and bottom lines was impressive. Strength in year-over-year U.S. revenues and revenues from outside the United States was promising. The gross margin expansion, despite rising product costs, also looks promising.
The activation of new U.S. centers and the creation of new U.S. sales territories during the reported quarter also look encouraging. Management&#39;s expectations of activating more U.S. medical centers and adding new U.S. sales territories during each quarter of 2024 also raise our optimism about the stock.
On the earnings call, Inspire Medical&#39;s management confirmed that the SURMOUNT-OSA trial results reinforced its view that GLP-1s will be complementary to INSP&#39;s market opportunity and may provide a mechanism for potential patients to reduce their weight and qualify for Inspire therapy. A few other notable developments during the quarter include the commercial launches of Inspire Medical&#39;s silicon-based leads and Bluetooth patient remote, the ongoing investments in the SleepSync digital platform and the FDA approval of its new physician programmer (which connects directly with the SleepSync platform). These also look promising for the stock.
However, rising operating costs continued to generate operating loss, raising apprehension.
<h3>Zacks Rank and Other Key Picks</h3>
Inspire Medical currently sports a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy).
A few other-ranked stocks in the broader medical space that have announced quarterly results are Align Technology, Inc. (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/algn#NASDAQ">ALGN</a>), ResMed Inc. (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/rmd#NYSE">RMD</a>)&nbsp;and Boston Scientific Corporation (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/bsx#NYSE">BSX</a>).
Align Technology, carrying a Zacks Rank of 2 (Buy), reported first-quarter 2024 adjusted EPS of $2.14, beating the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 8.1%. Revenues of $997.4 million outpaced the consensus mark by 2.6%.
Align Technology has a long-term estimated growth rate of 6.9%. ALGN&#39;s earnings surpassed estimates in three of the trailing four quarters and missed once, the average surprise being 5.9%.
ResMed reported third-quarter fiscal 2024 adjusted EPS of $2.13, beating the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 10.9%. Revenues of $1.19 billion surpassed the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 1.9%. It currently sports a Zacks Rank #1.
ResMed has a long-term estimated growth rate of 10.7%. RMD&#39;s earnings surpassed estimates in three of the trailing four quarters and missed once, the average surprise being 2.8%.
Boston Scientific reported first-quarter 2024 adjusted EPS of 56 cents, beating the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 9.8%. Revenues of $3.86 billion surpassed the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 4.9%. It currently carries a Zacks Rank #2.
Boston Scientific has a long-term estimated growth rate of 12.5%. BSX&#39;s earnings surpassed estimates in all the trailing four quarters, the average surprise being 7.5%.
<a href="https://www.zacks.com/stock/news/2270718/inspire-medical-insp-q1-earnings-beat-gross-margin-up?cid=CS-BENZ-FT-analyst_blog|earnings_article-2270718">To read this article on Zacks.com click here.</a>

Morgan Stanley analyst Erin Wright maintains Align Tech (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ALGN#NASDAQ">ALGN</a>) with a Overweight and raises the price target from $344 to $360.

Price Target

Analyst Ratings

Morgan Stanley Maintains Overweight on Align Tech, Raises Price Target to $360

WIIM

Align Technology shares are trading lower. The stock initially traded higher after the company reported Q1 financial results, but has since reversed.

Piper Sandler analyst Jason Bednar reiterates Align Tech (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ALGN#NASDAQ">ALGN</a>) with a Overweight and raises the price target from $355 to $375.

Reiteration

Piper Sandler Reiterates Overweight on Align Tech, Raises Price Target to $375

Baird analyst Jeff Johnson maintains Align Tech (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ALGN#NASDAQ">ALGN</a>) with a Outperform and raises the price target from $333 to $370.

Baird Maintains Outperform on Align Tech, Raises Price Target to $370

Align Technology shares are trading higher after the company reported better-than-expected Q1 financial results.

Align Tech (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ALGN#NASDAQ">ALGN</a>) reported quarterly earnings of $2.14 per share which beat the analyst consensus estimate of $1.97 by 8.63 percent. The company reported quarterly sales of $997.40 million which beat the analyst consensus estimate of $974.41 million by 2.36 percent. This is a 5.75 percent increase over sales of $943.15 million the same period last year.

Align Tech Q1 2024 Adj EPS $2.14 Beats $1.97 Estimate, Sales $997.40M Beat $974.41M Estimate

Stifel analyst Jonathan Block maintains Align Tech (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ALGN#NASDAQ">ALGN</a>) with a Buy and raises the price target from $350 to $400.

Stifel Maintains Buy on Align Tech, Raises Price Target to $400

Providing a diverse range of perspectives from bullish to bearish, 7 analysts have published ratings on Align Tech (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ALGN#NASDAQ">ALGN</a>) in the last three months.
The following table summarizes their recent ratings, shedding light on the changing sentiments within the past 30 days and comparing them to the preceding months.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th></th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Bullish</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Somewhat Bullish</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Indifferent</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Somewhat Bearish</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Bearish</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Total Ratings</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">2</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">3</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Last 30D</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1M Ago</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2M Ago</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3M Ago</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
Analysts have set 12-month price targets for Align Tech, revealing an average target of $307.86, a high estimate of $355.00, and a low estimate of $225.00. This upward trend is apparent, with the current average reflecting a 12.49% increase from the previous average price target of $273.67.
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1713200484_0.png" alt="price target chart" />
<h2>Analyzing Analyst Ratings: A Detailed Breakdown</h2>
The standing of Align Tech among financial experts is revealed through an in-depth exploration of recent analyst actions. The summary below outlines key analysts, their recent evaluations, and adjustments to ratings and price targets.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Analyst</th>
<th>Analyst Firm</th>
<th>Action Taken</th>
<th>Rating</th>
<th>Current Price Target</th>
<th>Prior Price Target</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Kevin Caliendo</td>
<td>UBS</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$320.00</td>
<td>$280.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jonathan Block</td>
<td>Stifel</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$350.00</td>
<td>$340.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jason Bednar</td>
<td>Piper Sandler</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
<td>$355.00</td>
<td>$335.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Michael Cherny</td>
<td>Leerink Partners</td>
<td>Announces</td>
<td>Market Perform</td>
<td>$310.00</td>
<td>-</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nathan Rice</td>
<td>Goldman Sachs</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Sell</td>
<td>$225.00</td>
<td>$197.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jason Bednar</td>
<td>Piper Sandler</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
<td>$335.00</td>
<td>$290.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kevin Caliendo</td>
<td>UBS</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$260.00</td>
<td>$200.00</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h3>Key Insights:</h3>
<ul>
<li>Action Taken: In response to dynamic market conditions and company performance, analysts update their recommendations. Whether they 'Maintain', 'Raise', or 'Lower' their stance, it signifies their reaction to recent developments related to Align Tech. This insight gives a snapshot of analysts' perspectives on the current state of the company.</li>
<li>Rating: Delving into assessments, analysts assign qualitative values, from 'Outperform' to 'Underperform'. These ratings communicate expectations for the relative performance of Align Tech compared to the broader market.</li>
<li>Price Targets: Analysts gauge the dynamics of price targets, providing estimates for the future value of Align Tech's stock. This comparison reveals trends in analysts' expectations over time.</li>
</ul>
Analyzing these analyst evaluations alongside relevant financial metrics can provide a comprehensive view of Align Tech's market position. Stay informed and make data-driven decisions with the assistance of our Ratings Table.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/ALGN/analyst-ratings?utm_source=Benzinga Insights">Stay up to date on Align Tech analyst ratings.</a>
<h2>Unveiling the Story Behind Align Tech</h2>
Align Technology is the leading manufacturer of clear aligners. Invisalign, its main product, was approved by the FDA in 1998, and it has since dominated, controlling over 90% of the market. Invisalign can treat roughly 90% of all malocclusion cases (misaligned teeth), and there are over 230,000 Invisalign-trained dentists and orthodontists. In 2022, Invisalign treated over 2 million cases, or roughly 10% of all orthodontic cases for the year, and it has treated over 14 million patients since its launch. Align also sells intraoral scanners under the brand iTero, which captures digital impressions of patients' teeth and illustrates treatment plans. Over 85% of Invisalign cases are submitted by digital scans and iTero scans make up over half of these scans.
<h3>Align Tech: Financial Performance Dissected</h3>
Market Capitalization Highlights: Above the industry average, the company's market capitalization signifies a significant scale, indicating strong confidence and market prominence.
Revenue Growth: Align Tech displayed positive results in 3 months. As of 31 December, 2023, the company achieved a solid revenue growth rate of approximately 6.12%. This indicates a notable increase in the company's top-line earnings. In comparison to its industry peers, the company trails behind with a growth rate lower than the average among peers in the Health Care sector.
Net Margin: Align Tech's financial strength is reflected in its exceptional net margin, which exceeds industry averages. With a remarkable net margin of 12.96%, the company showcases strong profitability and effective cost management.
Return on Equity (ROE): Align Tech's ROE surpasses industry standards, highlighting the company's exceptional financial performance. With an impressive 3.34% ROE, the company effectively utilizes shareholder equity capital.
Return on Assets (ROA): The company's ROA is a standout performer, exceeding industry averages. With an impressive ROA of 2.0%, the company showcases effective utilization of assets.
Debt Management: Align Tech's debt-to-equity ratio is below the industry average. With a ratio of 0.03, the company relies less on debt financing, maintaining a healthier balance between debt and equity, which can be viewed positively by investors.
<h2>The Significance of Analyst Ratings Explained</h2>
Benzinga tracks 150 analyst firms and reports on their stock expectations. Analysts typically arrive at their conclusions by predicting how much money a company will make in the future, usually the upcoming five years, and how risky or predictable that company's revenue streams are.
Analysts attend company conference calls and meetings, research company financial statements, and communicate with insiders to publish their ratings on stocks. Analysts typically rate each stock once per quarter or whenever the company has a major update.
In addition to their assessments, some analysts extend their insights by offering predictions for key metrics such as earnings, revenue, and growth estimates. This supplementary information provides further guidance for traders. It is crucial to recognize that, despite their specialization, analysts are human and can only provide forecasts based on their beliefs.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

7 Analysts Assess Align Tech: What You Need To Know

UBS analyst Kevin Caliendo maintains Align Tech (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ALGN#NASDAQ">ALGN</a>) with a Neutral and raises the price target from $280 to $320.

UBS Maintains Neutral on Align Tech, Raises Price Target to $320

<ul>
<li>Invisalign&#xAE; Palatal Expanders offer doctors an effective and easily removable alternative to traditional palatal expanders, without the need for metal and screws.</li>
<li>Combined with Invisalign First&#x2122; aligners, Invisalign Palatal Expanders provide doctors with a full early intervention treatment solution, including both skeletal (orthopedic) and dental (orthodontic) arch expansion.</li>
</ul>
Align Technology, Inc. ("Align") (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ALGN#NASDAQ">ALGN</a>) a leading global medical device company that designs, manufactures, and sells the Invisalign&#xAE; system of clear aligners, iTero&#x2122; intraoral scanners, and exocad&#x2122; CAD/CAM software for digital orthodontics and restorative dentistry, today announced that Align's Invisalign Palatal Expander System&#x2A; has been included in the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG) and the New Zealand Web Assisted Notification of Devices Database (WAND), and is commercially available in both Australia and New Zealand. The ARTG and WAND entries for Invisalign Palatal Expender System cover broad patient applicability, including growing children, teens and adults (with surgery or other techniques).
This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: <a href="https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240401790539/en/">https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240401790539/en/</a>
The Invisalign Palatal Expander System is a modern and innovative direct 3D printed device based on proprietary and patented technology. Invisalign Palatal Expanders are intended for use in rapid expansion and subsequent holding of skeletal and/or dental narrow maxilla (upper jaw) with primary, mixed, or permanent dentition during treatment of patients.
"The Invisalign Palatal Expander is an example of our continuous commitment to innovation by advancing digital orthodontics and delivering products with greater efficiency for doctors and provide better treatment experiences for patients and their parents," said Raj Pudipeddi, Align Technology chief marketing officer, executive vice president and managing director, Asia Pacific. "We are delighted to introduce the Invisalign Palatal Expander system, Align's first directly fabricated orthodontic appliance, to the Asia Pacific region."
The Invisalign Palatal Expander System consists of a series of removable devices staged in small increments of movement to expand a patient's narrow maxilla to a position determined by their treating doctor. Each direct 3D printed device is customised to the patient's unique anatomy based on an iTero&#x2122; intraoral digital scan. A palatal expansion treatment plan and device design are then developed using Align's proprietary AI-driven orthodontic software.
Combined with Invisalign First&#x2122; aligners, Invisalign Palatal Expanders provide doctors with a full early intervention treatment solution for Phase 1 treatment, an early interceptive orthodontic treatment for young patients. Phase 1 treatment is traditionally done through arch expanders or partial metal braces, before all permanent teeth have erupted – typically at ages 6 through 10. Invisalign First clear aligners are designed specifically to address a broad range of younger patients' malocclusions, including shorter clinical crowns, management of erupting dentition, and predictable dental arch expansion&#x2A;.
"Phase 1 or early interceptive treatment makes up 20 percent of orthodontic case starts each year and is growing," said Dr. Mitra Derakhshan, Align Technology senior vice president, Global Clinical. "Together with Invisalign First aligners, Invisalign Palatal Expanders provide doctors with a solution set to treat the most common skeletal and dental malocclusions in growing children. The addition of mandibular advancement features to Invisalign aligners also provides doctors with more options for treating skeletal and dental jaw imbalances and bite correction for their growing patients during their teenage years."
"We are excited to present the Invisalign Palatal Expander system, a significant advancement in the field of digital orthodontics, to our doctor customers in Australia and New Zealand," said Jonathan Primmer, Align Technology vice president and managing director for Australia and New Zealand. "With the increasing demand for orthodontic treatment among children and teenagers in Australia and New Zealand, the launch of the Invisalign Palatal Expander system allows us to offer a more comprehensive early interceptive treatment solution in conjunction with Invisalign First&#x2122;, alleviating the most complex challenges with palatal expansion while providing an exceptional patient experience that is both comfortable and supports proper oral hygiene."
The Invisalign Palatal Expander System is now available in Australia and New Zealand. It is expected to be available in other APAC markets pending regulatory approvals starting in 2024.
&#x2A;Data on File at Align Technology, as of June 2021.

Global

Align Technology's Invisalign Palatal Expander System Is Now Available In Australia And New Zealand For Skeletal And Dental Expansion In Growing Patients

Stifel analyst Jonathan Block maintains Align Tech (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ALGN#NASDAQ">ALGN</a>) with a Buy and raises the price target from $340 to $350.

Stifel Maintains Buy on Align Tech, Raises Price Target to $350

Align Technology shares are trading higher after Piper Sandler maintained an Overweight rating on the stock and raised its price target from $335 to $355.

5 analysts have expressed a variety of opinions on Align Tech (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ALGN#NASDAQ">ALGN</a>) over the past quarter, offering a diverse set of opinions from bullish to bearish.
Summarizing their recent assessments, the table below illustrates the evolving sentiments in the past 30 days and compares them to the preceding months.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th></th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Bullish</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Somewhat Bullish</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Indifferent</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Somewhat Bearish</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Bearish</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Total Ratings</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">2</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">2</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Last 30D</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1M Ago</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2M Ago</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3M Ago</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
In the assessment of 12-month price targets, analysts unveil insights for Align Tech, presenting an average target of $297.0, a high estimate of $355.00, and a low estimate of $225.00. Observing a 16.24% increase, the current average has risen from the previous average price target of $255.50. 
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1710338423_0.png" alt="price target chart" />
<h2>Understanding Analyst Ratings: A Comprehensive Breakdown</h2>
The perception of Align Tech by financial experts is analyzed through recent analyst actions. The following summary presents key analysts, their recent evaluations, and adjustments to ratings and price targets.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Analyst</th>
<th>Analyst Firm</th>
<th>Action Taken</th>
<th>Rating</th>
<th>Current Price Target</th>
<th>Prior Price Target</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Jason Bednar</td>
<td>Piper Sandler</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
<td>$355.00</td>
<td>$335.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Michael Cherny</td>
<td>Leerink Partners</td>
<td>Announces</td>
<td>Market Perform</td>
<td>$310.00</td>
<td>-</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nathan Rice</td>
<td>Goldman Sachs</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Sell</td>
<td>$225.00</td>
<td>$197.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jason Bednar</td>
<td>Piper Sandler</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
<td>$335.00</td>
<td>$290.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kevin Caliendo</td>
<td>UBS</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$260.00</td>
<td>$200.00</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h3>Key Insights:</h3>
<ul>
<li>Action Taken: Analysts frequently update their recommendations based on evolving market conditions and company performance. Whether they 'Maintain', 'Raise' or 'Lower' their stance, it reflects their reaction to recent developments related to Align Tech. This information provides a snapshot of how analysts perceive the current state of the company.</li>
<li>Rating: Analysts unravel qualitative evaluations for stocks, ranging from 'Outperform' to 'Underperform'. These ratings offer insights into expectations for the relative performance of Align Tech compared to the broader market.</li>
<li>Price Targets: Analysts provide insights into price targets, offering estimates for the future value of Align Tech's stock. This comparison reveals trends in analysts' expectations over time.</li>
</ul>
To gain a panoramic view of Align Tech's market performance, explore these analyst evaluations alongside essential financial indicators. Stay informed and make judicious decisions using our Ratings Table.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/ALGN/analyst-ratings?utm_source=Benzinga Insights">Stay up to date on Align Tech analyst ratings.</a>
<h2>All You Need to Know About Align Tech</h2>
Align Technology is the leading manufacturer of clear aligners. Invisalign, its main product, was approved by the FDA in 1998, and it has since dominated, controlling over 90% of the market. Invisalign can treat roughly 90% of all malocclusion cases (misaligned teeth), and there are over 230,000 Invisalign-trained dentists and orthodontists. In 2022, Invisalign treated over 2 million cases, or roughly 10% of all orthodontic cases for the year, and it has treated over 14 million patients since its launch. Align also sells intraoral scanners under the brand iTero, which captures digital impressions of patients' teeth and illustrates treatment plans. Over 85% of Invisalign cases are submitted by digital scans and iTero scans make up over half of these scans.
<h3>A Deep Dive into Align Tech's Financials</h3>
Market Capitalization Analysis: The company's market capitalization is above the industry average, indicating that it is relatively larger in size compared to peers. This may suggest a higher level of investor confidence and market recognition.
Revenue Growth: Align Tech's remarkable performance in 3 months is evident. As of 31 December, 2023, the company achieved an impressive revenue growth rate of 6.12%. This signifies a substantial increase in the company's top-line earnings. In comparison to its industry peers, the company trails behind with a growth rate lower than the average among peers in the Health Care sector.
Net Margin: Align Tech's net margin is impressive, surpassing industry averages. With a net margin of 12.96%, the company demonstrates strong profitability and effective cost management.
Return on Equity (ROE): Align Tech's ROE excels beyond industry benchmarks, reaching 3.34%. This signifies robust financial management and efficient use of shareholder equity capital.
Return on Assets (ROA): Align Tech's ROA surpasses industry standards, highlighting the company's exceptional financial performance. With an impressive 2.0% ROA, the company effectively utilizes its assets for optimal returns.
Debt Management: Align Tech's debt-to-equity ratio is below industry norms, indicating a sound financial structure with a ratio of 0.03.
<h2>Analyst Ratings: Simplified</h2>
Ratings come from analysts, or specialists within banking and financial systems that report for specific stocks or defined sectors (typically once per quarter for each stock). Analysts usually derive their information from company conference calls and meetings, financial statements, and conversations with important insiders to reach their decisions.
Some analysts publish their predictions for metrics such as growth estimates, earnings, and revenue to provide additional guidance with their ratings. When using analyst ratings, it is important to keep in mind that stock and sector analysts are also human and are only offering their opinions to investors.
If you want to keep track of which analysts are outperforming others, you can view updated analyst ratings along withanalyst success scores in <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a>.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

Forecasting The Future: 5 Analyst Projections For Align Tech

Piper Sandler analyst Jason Bednar maintains Align Tech (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ALGN#NASDAQ">ALGN</a>) with a Overweight and raises the price target from $335 to $355.

Piper Sandler Maintains Overweight on Align Tech, Raises Price Target to $355

Providing a diverse range of perspectives from bullish to bearish, 5 analysts have published ratings on Align Tech (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ALGN#NASDAQ">ALGN</a>) in the last three months.
The following table encapsulates their recent ratings, offering a glimpse into the evolving sentiments over the past 30 days and comparing them to the preceding months.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th></th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Bullish</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Somewhat Bullish</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Indifferent</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Somewhat Bearish</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Bearish</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Total Ratings</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">2</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Last 30D</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1M Ago</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2M Ago</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3M Ago</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
Analysts provide deeper insights through their assessments of 12-month price targets, revealing an average target of $265.4, a high estimate of $335.00, and a low estimate of $197.00. This current average has increased by 15.9% from the previous average price target of $229.00. 
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1708970452_0.png" alt="price target chart" />
<h2>Deciphering Analyst Ratings: An In-Depth Analysis</h2>
The perception of Align Tech by financial experts is analyzed through recent analyst actions. The following summary presents key analysts, their recent evaluations, and adjustments to ratings and price targets.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Analyst</th>
<th>Analyst Firm</th>
<th>Action Taken</th>
<th>Rating</th>
<th>Current Price Target</th>
<th>Prior Price Target</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Michael Cherny</td>
<td>Leerink Partners</td>
<td>Announces</td>
<td>Market Perform</td>
<td>$310.00</td>
<td>-</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nathan Rice</td>
<td>Goldman Sachs</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Sell</td>
<td>$225.00</td>
<td>$197.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jason Bednar</td>
<td>Piper Sandler</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
<td>$335.00</td>
<td>$290.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kevin Caliendo</td>
<td>UBS</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$260.00</td>
<td>$200.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nathan Rice</td>
<td>Goldman Sachs</td>
<td>Announces</td>
<td>Sell</td>
<td>$197.00</td>
<td>-</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h3>Key Insights:</h3>
<ul>
<li>Action Taken: Responding to changing market dynamics and company performance, analysts update their recommendations. Whether they 'Maintain', 'Raise', or 'Lower' their stance, it signifies their response to recent developments related to Align Tech. This offers insight into analysts' perspectives on the current state of the company.</li>
<li>Rating: Analysts assign qualitative assessments to stocks, ranging from 'Outperform' to 'Underperform'. These ratings convey the analysts' expectations for the relative performance of Align Tech compared to the broader market.</li>
<li>Price Targets: Analysts navigate through adjustments in price targets, providing estimates for Align Tech's future value. Comparing current and prior targets offers insights into analysts' evolving expectations.</li>
</ul>
Considering these analyst evaluations in conjunction with other financial indicators can offer a comprehensive understanding of Align Tech's market position. Stay informed and make well-informed decisions with our Ratings Table.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/ALGN/analyst-ratings?utm_source=Benzinga Insights">Stay up to date on Align Tech analyst ratings.</a>
<h2>Discovering Align Tech: A Closer Look</h2>
Align Technology is the leading manufacturer of clear aligners. Invisalign, its main product, was approved by the FDA in 1998, and it has since dominated, controlling over 90% of the market. Invisalign can treat roughly 90% of all malocclusion cases (misaligned teeth), and there are over 230,000 Invisalign-trained dentists and orthodontists. In 2022, Invisalign treated over 2 million cases, or roughly 10% of all orthodontic cases for the year, and it has treated over 14 million patients since its launch. Align also sells intraoral scanners under the brand iTero, which captures digital impressions of patients' teeth and illustrates treatment plans. Over 85% of Invisalign cases are submitted by digital scans and iTero scans make up over half of these scans.
<h3>Key Indicators: Align Tech's Financial Health</h3>
Market Capitalization: Positioned above industry average, the company's market capitalization underscores its superiority in size, indicative of a strong market presence.
Negative Revenue Trend: Examining Align Tech's financials over 3 months reveals challenges. As of 31 December, 2023, the company experienced a decline of approximately -0.36% in revenue growth, reflecting a decrease in top-line earnings. When compared to others in the Health Care sector, the company faces challenges, achieving a growth rate lower than the average among peers.
Net Margin: The company's net margin is a standout performer, exceeding industry averages. With an impressive net margin of 12.96%, the company showcases strong profitability and effective cost control.
Return on Equity (ROE): Align Tech's ROE excels beyond industry benchmarks, reaching 3.34%. This signifies robust financial management and efficient use of shareholder equity capital.
Return on Assets (ROA): Align Tech's ROA excels beyond industry benchmarks, reaching 2.0%. This signifies efficient management of assets and strong financial health.
Debt Management: Align Tech's debt-to-equity ratio is below the industry average at 0.03, reflecting a lower dependency on debt financing and a more conservative financial approach.
<h2>The Significance of Analyst Ratings Explained</h2>
Analysts work in banking and financial systems and typically specialize in reporting for stocks or defined sectors. Analysts may attend company conference calls and meetings, research company financial statements, and communicate with insiders to publish "analyst ratings" for stocks. Analysts typically rate each stock once per quarter.
In addition to their assessments, some analysts extend their insights by offering predictions for key metrics such as earnings, revenue, and growth estimates. This supplementary information provides further guidance for traders. It is crucial to recognize that, despite their specialization, analysts are human and can only provide forecasts based on their beliefs.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

Expert Outlook: Align Tech Through The Eyes Of 5 Analysts

Leerink Partners analyst Michael Cherny initiates coverage on Align Tech (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ALGN#NASDAQ">ALGN</a>) with a Market Perform rating and announces Price Target of $310.

Initiation

Leerink Partners Initiates Coverage On Align Tech with Market Perform Rating, Announces Price Target of $310

Financial giants have made a conspicuous bullish move on Align Tech. Our analysis of options history for Align Tech (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ALGN#NASDAQ">ALGN</a>) revealed 9 unusual trades.
Delving into the details, we found 55% of traders were bullish, while 44% showed bearish tendencies. Out of all the trades we spotted, 2 were puts, with a value of $90,900, and 7 were calls, valued at $330,542.
<h3>Predicted Price Range</h3>
Based on the trading activity, it appears that the significant investors are aiming for a price territory stretching from $280.0 to $350.0 for Align Tech over the recent three months. 
<h3>Insights into Volume &amp; Open Interest</h3>
Assessing the volume and open interest is a strategic step in options trading. These metrics shed light on the liquidity and investor interest in Align Tech's options at specified strike prices. The forthcoming data visualizes the fluctuation in volume and open interest for both calls and puts, linked to Align Tech's substantial trades, within a strike price spectrum from $280.0 to $350.0 over the preceding 30 days.
<h3>Align Tech Option Activity Analysis: Last 30 Days</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1708720251_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" />
<h3>Largest Options Trades Observed:</h3>

<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Open Interest</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>ALGN</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>03/01/24</td>
<td>$310.00</td>
<td>$88.0K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">300</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">166</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>ALGN</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>04/19/24</td>
<td>$340.00</td>
<td>$56.2K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">10</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">29</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>ALGN</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>03/15/24</td>
<td>$300.00</td>
<td>$48.3K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">784</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">27</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>ALGN</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>03/01/24</td>
<td>$310.00</td>
<td>$43.5K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">300</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">93</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>ALGN</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>03/08/24</td>
<td>$320.00</td>
<td>$41.0K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">27</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">116</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h3>About Align Tech</h3>
Align Technology is the leading manufacturer of clear aligners. Invisalign, its main product, was approved by the FDA in 1998, and it has since dominated, controlling over 90% of the market. Invisalign can treat roughly 90% of all malocclusion cases (misaligned teeth), and there are over 230,000 Invisalign-trained dentists and orthodontists. In 2022, Invisalign treated over 2 million cases, or roughly 10% of all orthodontic cases for the year, and it has treated over 14 million patients since its launch. Align also sells intraoral scanners under the brand iTero, which captures digital impressions of patients' teeth and illustrates treatment plans. Over 85% of Invisalign cases are submitted by digital scans and iTero scans make up over half of these scans.
After a thorough review of the options trading surrounding Align Tech, we move to examine the company in more detail. This includes an assessment of its current market status and performance.
<h3>Present Market Standing of Align Tech</h3>
<ul>
<li>Trading volume stands at 384,080, with ALGN's price down by 0.0%, positioned at $316.56.</li>
<li>RSI indicators show the stock to be may be overbought.</li>
<li>Earnings announcement expected in 61 days.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Professional Analyst Ratings for Align Tech</h3>
A total of 3 professional analysts have given their take on this stock in the last 30 days, setting an average price target of $273.3333333333333.
<ul>
<li>An analyst from Goldman Sachs has decided to maintain their Sell rating on Align Tech, which currently sits at a price target of $225. </li>
<li>An analyst from UBS persists with their Neutral rating on Align Tech, maintaining a target price of $260. </li>
<li>An analyst from Piper Sandler has decided to maintain their Overweight rating on Align Tech, which currently sits at a price target of $335. </li>
</ul>
Options are a riskier asset compared to just trading the stock, but they have higher profit potential. Serious options traders manage this risk by educating themselves daily, scaling in and out of trades, following more than one indicator, and following the markets closely.
If you want to stay updated on the latest options trades for Align Tech, <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a> gives you real-time options trades alerts.

Options

Align Tech Unusual Options Activity For February 23

This whale alert can help traders discover the next big trading opportunities.
Whales are entities with large sums of money and we track their transactions here at Benzinga on our options activity scanner.
Traders will search for circumstances when the market estimation of an option diverges heavily from its normal worth. High amounts of trading activity could push option prices to exaggerated or underestimated levels. 
Here's the list of options activity happening in today's session: 
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th>Open Interest</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>MRNA</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>02/23/24</td>
<td>$80.00</td>
<td>$47.8K</td>
<td>479</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">447</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>ALGN</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>02/23/24</td>
<td>$295.00</td>
<td>$46.8K</td>
<td>352</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">361</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>AVTR</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>05/17/24</td>
<td>$25.00</td>
<td>$26.2K</td>
<td>713</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">328</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>GRFS</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>12/20/24</td>
<td>$10.00</td>
<td>$29.0K</td>
<td>620</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">227</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>EYPT</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>03/15/24</td>
<td>$30.00</td>
<td>$29.5K</td>
<td>4</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">100</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>PCRX</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>06/21/24</td>
<td>$30.00</td>
<td>$25.7K</td>
<td>8</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">86</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>UNH</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$570.00</td>
<td>$28.4K</td>
<td>751</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">63</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>NVO</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>03/15/24</td>
<td>$105.00</td>
<td>$63.5K</td>
<td>4.8K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">50</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>REGN</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>03/15/24</td>
<td>$940.00</td>
<td>$72.0K</td>
<td>41</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">48</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>LLY</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>03/28/24</td>
<td>$735.00</td>
<td>$26.9K</td>
<td>13</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">30</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h2>Explanation</h2>
These itemized elaborations have been created using the accompanying table. 
• Regarding MRNA (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRNA#NASDAQ">MRNA</a>), we observe a put option trade with bearish sentiment. It expires in 11 day(s) on February 23, 2024. Parties traded 285 contract(s) at a $80.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $47.8K, with a price of $168.0 per contract. There were 479 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 447 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding ALGN (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ALGN#NASDAQ">ALGN</a>), we observe a call option sweep with bearish sentiment. It expires in 11 day(s) on February 23, 2024. Parties traded 40 contract(s) at a $295.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 4 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $46.8K, with a price of $1170.0 per contract. There were 352 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 361 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For AVTR (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AVTR#NYSE">AVTR</a>), we notice a call option sweep that happens to be bearish, expiring in 95 day(s) on May 17, 2024. This event was a transfer of 328 contract(s) at a $25.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 20 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $26.2K, with a price of $80.0 per contract. There were 713 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 328 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding GRFS (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GRFS#NASDAQ">GRFS</a>), we observe a call option sweep with bullish sentiment. It expires in 312 day(s) on December 20, 2024. Parties traded 185 contract(s) at a $10.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 30 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $29.0K, with a price of $158.0 per contract. There were 620 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 227 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For EYPT (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EYPT#NASDAQ">EYPT</a>), we notice a put option trade that happens to be bullish, expiring in 32 day(s) on March 15, 2024. This event was a transfer of 100 contract(s) at a $30.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $29.5K, with a price of $295.0 per contract. There were 4 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 100 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding PCRX (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PCRX#NASDAQ">PCRX</a>), we observe a put option sweep with bearish sentiment. It expires in 130 day(s) on June 21, 2024. Parties traded 83 contract(s) at a $30.00 strike. This particular put needed to be split into 12 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $25.7K, with a price of $310.0 per contract. There were 8 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 86 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding UNH (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UNH#NYSE">UNH</a>), we observe a call option sweep with bullish sentiment. It expires in 340 day(s) on January 17, 2025. Parties traded 11 contract(s) at a $570.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 3 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $28.4K, with a price of $2585.0 per contract. There were 751 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 63 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding NVO (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVO#NYSE">NVO</a>), we observe a call option sweep with bearish sentiment. It expires in 32 day(s) on March 15, 2024. Parties traded 40 contract(s) at a $105.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 7 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $63.5K, with a price of $1589.0 per contract. There were 4824 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 50 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For REGN (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/REGN#NASDAQ">REGN</a>), we notice a call option trade that happens to be bearish, expiring in 32 day(s) on March 15, 2024. This event was a transfer of 25 contract(s) at a $940.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $72.0K, with a price of $2880.0 per contract. There were 41 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 48 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For LLY (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LLY#NYSE">LLY</a>), we notice a call option sweep that happens to be neutral, expiring in 45 day(s) on March 28, 2024. This event was a transfer of 10 contract(s) at a $735.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 7 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $26.9K, with a price of $2705.0 per contract. There were 13 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 30 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
Options Alert Terminology 
 - Call Contracts: The right to buy shares as indicated in the contract. 
 - Put Contracts: The right to sell shares as indicated in the contract. 
 - Expiration Date: When the contract expires. One must act on the contract by this date if one wants to use it. 
 - Premium/Option Price: The price of the contract. 
For more information, visit our <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/blog/how-to-understand-option-alerts/">Guide to Understanding Options Alerts</a> or read <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/options">more news on unusual options activity</a>. 
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

AVTR

EYPT

GRFS

MRNA

PCRX

REGN

10 Health Care Stocks Whale Activity In Today's Session

Align Technology Non-GAAP EPS of $2.14 beats by $0.16, revenue of $997.4M beats by $23.58M

Align Technology, Inc. 2024 Q1 - Results - Earnings Call Presentation

Align Technology bullish on 2024 projecting revenue and price increase

Align Technology, Inc. (ALGN) Q1 2024 Earnings Call Transcript

<a href="https://investorplace.com">InvestorPlace - Stock Market News, Stock Advice &amp; Trading Tips</a>
Align Tech (NASDAQ:<a href="https://investorplace.com/stock-quotes/algn-stock-quote/">ALGN</a>) just reported results for the first quarter of 2024.<ul><li>Align Tech reported earnings per share of $2.14. This was above the analyst estimate for EPS of $1.97.</li><li>The company reported revenue of $997.43 million.</li><li>This was 2.36% better than the analyst estimate for revenue of $974.41 million.</li></ul><div>InvestorPlace Earnings is a project that leverages data from <a href="https://www.tradesmith.com">TradeSmith</a> to automate coverage of quarterly earnings reports. InvestorPlace Earnings distills key takeaways including earnings per share and revenue, as well as how a company stacks up to analyst estimates. These articles are published without human intervention, allowing us to inform our readers of the latest figures as quickly as possible. To report any concerns or inaccuracies, please contact us at <a href="mailto:editor@investorplace.com">editor@investorplace.com</a>.</div><h3>More From InvestorPlace</h3>
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	The post <a href="https://investorplace.com/earning-results/2024/04/algn-stock-earnings-align-tech-for-q1-of-2024/">ALGN Stock Earnings: Align Tech Beats EPS, Beats Revenue for Q1 2024</a> appeared first on <a href="https://investorplace.com">InvestorPlace</a>.

ALGN Stock Earnings: Align Tech Beats EPS, Beats Revenue for Q1 2024

Align Tech (ALGN) has shared an announcement. Align Technology, Inc. has revealed plans to buy back $150 million of its common stock as part of a l...

Align Tech Announces $150 Million Stock Buyback Plan

Align Technology announces $150 million open market repurchase

SPHB: When The Risk-Reward Theory Falls Apart

<a href="https://investorplace.com">InvestorPlace - Stock Market News, Stock Advice &amp; Trading Tips</a>
Undoubtedly, investors seem to have a new appetite for next-level revenue growth. Generative AI, GLP-1 weight-loss drugs and other breakthrough innovations (I&rsquo;m not sure if the metaverse qualifies right now) seek to expand in some pretty massive markets. Some medical technology (med tech) stocks are capable of impressive growth as they aim to improve the lives of those with specific issues. 



With many top medical tech and device firms trading at reasonable prices, investors may wish to give them a closer look as the tech market grows increasingly choppy.



Let&rsquo;s examine three med <a href="https://investorplace.com/industries/technology/">tech stocks</a> that are slightly undervalued relative to their impressive product portfolios and innovative pipelines that may be able to drive solid share price appreciation over the coming years.



<h2>Intuitive Surgical (ISRG)</h2>



<div><img width="300" height="169" src="https://investorplace.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/isrg-stock-300x169.jpg" alt="A sign with the Intuitive Surgical logo standing outside of a company office. ISRG stock."><div>Source: Sundry Photography / Shutterstock.com</div></div>Intuitive Surgical (NASDAQ:<a href="https://investorplace.com/stock-quotes/isrg-stock-quote/">ISRG</a>) is a $132 billion med tech titan innovating on surgical robotics&rsquo;s cutting edge. The company recently took a slight breather, falling almost 7% after briefly breaching all-time highs of over $400 per share.



With the number of da Vinci surgeries bouncing back in China, the company may have the tailwind it needs to push to even higher highs as it rides on the back of its international expansion while putting the finishing touches on its recently cleared fifth-generation robot.



The stock has had a rather turbulent ride since it bottomed in the back half of 2022. Though demand for new surgical robots is bound to be quite cyclical, new innovations (think new generations of da Vinci) have the potential to power explosive growth. After all, it&rsquo;s hard for an operator not to upgrade to the best equipment if there&rsquo;s a chance of improving patient outcomes.



Up ahead, the <a href="https://www.intuitive.com/en-us/products-and-services/da-vinci/5">da Vinci 5 model</a>, which betters the previous version across many metrics (think increased precision, better force sensing and more processing power), could act as a big growth driver for the firm. Indeed, it&rsquo;s quite an exciting time to own INTU stock, which is going for a very reasonable 67.2 times trailing price-to-earnings (P/E).



<h2>Align Technology (ALGN)</h2>



<div><img width="300" height="169" src="https://investorplace.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/align_technologies_algn1600-300x169.jpg" alt="a smartphone displays the Align (ALGN) logo"><div>Source: rafapress / Shutterstock.com</div></div>Align Technology (NASDAQ:<a href="https://investorplace.com/stock-quotes/algn-stock-quote/">ALGN</a>) is an underrated med tech firm stuck in a massive rut. Shares collapsed in 2021 and 2022 as the pandemic-fuelled boom eventually went bust. Undoubtedly, the perfect time to get one&rsquo;s teeth straightened was during lockdown.



Demand is normalizing while the company innovates with new aligner products. ALGN stock is a worthy dental tech play. It looks to add to the newfound momentum it&rsquo;s enjoyed since November 2023.



The company also expects decent growth in 2024, calling for <a href="https://seekingalpha.com/news/4093753-align-technology-bullish-2024-projecting-revenue-and-price-increase?source=apple_news%253Anews">revenue to rise</a> by 6-8% as price hikes look to kick in. At writing, the stock trades for 35.7 times forward P/E. It isn&rsquo;r a cheap stock, but with such a dominant lead in its market that further innovations could widen, I&rsquo;d not sleep on the name as it comes in again.



<h2>Johnson &amp; Johnson (JNJ)</h2>



<div><img width="300" height="169" src="https://investorplace.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/jnj1600c-300x169.jpg" alt="A red Johnson &amp; Johnson (JNJ) sign hangs inside in Moscow, Russia."><div>Source: Alexander Tolstykh / Shutterstock.com</div></div>Johnson &amp; Johnson (NYSE:<a href="https://investorplace.com/stock-quotes/jnj-stock-quote/">JNJ</a>) stock has been a perennial underperformer in recent years, with shares now trading at four-year lows of around $146 and change. The talc powder controversy has been a thorn in the firm&rsquo;s side for quite some time.



The firm shoots to return to the growth track with its medtech and medicine businesses. It may be worthwhile picking up a few shares of the $358 billion behemoth as many investors tire of waiting for JNJ stock to turn a corner.



The company has ambitious plans to expand <a href="https://ca.finance.yahoo.com/jj-cfo-weve-beefed-up-cardiovascular-medical-devices-in-hopes-of-reviving-our-medtech-business-210910346.html">medtech</a> from here. A fully loaded pipeline of impressive devices (particularly in interventional cardiovascular) may help the firm jolt sales growth and stock. For now, though, average investors, who likely view the behemoth as a firm whose best growth days are long behind them, won&rsquo;t appreciate the medtech pipeline.



At writing, JNJ stock trades at a reasonable 20.0 times trailing P/E. The 3.34% dividend yield is also a nice bonus.



On the date of publication, Joey Frenette did not hold (either directly or indirectly) any positions in the securities mentioned in this article. The opinions expressed in this article are those of the writer, subject to the InvestorPlace.com&nbsp;<a href="https://protect-us.mimecast.com/s/YUYqC31vVVI7KAkriDfKi6?domain=investorplace.com/">Publishing Guidelines</a>.
<div>Joey Frenette is a seasoned investment writer specializing in technology and consumer stocks. Contributing to the Motley Fool Canada, TipRanks, and Barchart, Joey excels in spotting mispriced stocks with long-term growth potential in a fast-paced market.</div><h3>More From InvestorPlace</h3>
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The post <a href="https://investorplace.com/2024/04/cutting-edge-picks-3-med-tech-stocks-with-room-to-run/">Cutting Edge Picks: 3 Med Tech Stocks With Room to Run</a> appeared first on <a href="https://investorplace.com">InvestorPlace</a>.

Cutting Edge Picks: 3 Med Tech Stocks With Room to Run

Align Technology: International Strength To Continue Driving Growth Acceleration

CUKPF

GNRC

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MPWR

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NVDA

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SPYG

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Press Releases

Align Technology Announces New iTero Lumina™ Intraoral Scanner Featuring a 3X Wider Field of Capture1 in a 50% Smaller Wand2 That Delivers Faster Scanning, Higher Accuracy3, and Superior Visualization4 for Greater Practice Efficiency

Align Technology Announces Fourth Quarter and Fiscal 2023 Financial Results

Align Technology Among Top 300 Worldwide Organizations Granted U.S. Patents in 2023

Opinion

Thinking about trading options or stock in Align Technology, Microsoft, Qualcomm, C3.ai, or Walmart?

U.S. District Court for Northern District of California Grants Summary Judgment in Favor of Align Technology in Two Antitrust Class Action Lawsuits

Align Technology to Announce First Quarter 2024 Results on April 24, 2024

Invisalign® Palatal Expander System by Align Technology Now Available in Australia and New Zealand for Skeletal and Dental Expansion in Growing Patients

Align Technology Launches Integrated Consumer Campaign and #Invisisforkids to Drive Awareness of How the Invisalign® Palatal Expander System Is a Better Option for Expanding a Child's Narrow Palate to Make Room for Adult Teeth

Align Technology Announces First Quarter 2024 Financial Results

Align Technology Announces $150 Million Open Market Repurchase

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Utah Medical Products, Inc. - Common Stock

Utah Medical Products

VolitionRX

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Xtant Medical Holdings, Inc. Common Stock

Xtant Medical Hldgs

Morgan Stanley

Piper Sandler

Baird

Stifel