How does AZN's 2024 earnings trend compare to peers?

AstraZeneca's (AZN) 2024 earnings trend appears robust compared to its peers, driven by strategic growth initiatives and a favorable market outlook. Here's a detailed analysis:

1. **Revenue Growth**: AstraZeneca achieved an impressive 18% revenue growth over the last twelve months, surpassing the $54 billion mark. This outperformance is a testament to its successful expansion into the Chinese market and partnerships with local biotech firms.
2. **Earnings Projection**: Analysts project a 6.8% increase in earnings per share (EPS) for the upcoming quarter, with expectations of $1.10 EPS. This aligns with a broader industry trend of positive earnings revisions, indicating analyst optimism.
3. **Market Positioning**: Goldman Sachs maintains a "Conviction Buy" rating on AZN, raising its price target to £151.30, reflecting confidence in AstraZeneca's growth potential. The firm highlights the potential of AZN's oral PCSK9 inhibitor, AZD0780, which could shape the competitive landscape in the PCSK9 class.
4. **Innovation Focus**: AstraZeneca's emphasis on innovation is evident in its investment in a new $2.5 billion R&D center in Beijing. This expansion, coupled with partnerships and a strong financial health score, positions AZN well for sustained growth.
5. **Peer Comparison**: While specific peer comparisons for 2024 earnings are not available, AstraZeneca's revenue growth and EPS projections suggest it is performing well relative to industry peers. The pharmaceutical sector's growth, driven by factors like aging populations and increased healthcare spending, provides a favorable environment for AZN's continued success.

In conclusion, AstraZeneca's 2024 earnings trend is strong, driven by strategic expansions, innovative drug developments, and a positive market outlook. This positions AZN favorably compared to its peers, with potential for further growth in the coming years.