Novartis (NYSE: NVS) was upgraded to Buy from Hold by Argus, which set a $180 price target on the pharmaceutical company.
The firm noted that Novartis shares have followed a long-term pattern of higher highs and higher lows. After a recent pullback, the stock’s 14-day relative strength index dropped to 56, which Argus believes presents an attractive entry point for healthcare investors.
Novartis continues to see strong demand across its broad portfolio of therapies spanning immunology, neuroscience, oncology, cardiovascular, renal, and metabolic diseases. Product volumes increased 18% during the fourth quarter.
Argus also highlighted the company’s dividend as an attractive component of the investment case. The dividend was recently increased by 5.7% following shareholder approval, resulting in a yield of approximately 3.0%.
The firm said its $180 price target implies a potential total return of roughly 15% from current levels when including dividend income.
