Stock Pulse
Baxter International Inc. (BAX) announced the immediate retirement of CEO José Almeida and the appointment of Brent Shafer as interim CEO [2]. This follows a challenging period including a Q4 2024 net loss and a 2% stock dip, attributed to impairments, leadership instability, supply chain disruptions from Hurricane Helene, and competitive pressures [2], [4]. Despite these challenges, Q4 2024 sales exceeded expectations at $2.75 billion, driven by strong performance in Medical Products & Therapies and Pharmaceuticals [6]. The company also launched a new room-temperature version of its Hemopatch Sealing Hemostat, potentially boosting its competitive advantage in the surgical innovation market [1]. While long-term growth potential exists due to restructuring efforts, the sale of the Kidney Care business, and a positive Earnings ESP [4], [6], [7], the recent leadership change and past performance create uncertainty [2].