Is Wall Street Bullish or Bearish on Quest Diagnostics Stock?

With a market cap of $18.9 billion, Quest Diagnostics Incorporated (DGX) is a leading provider of diagnostic testing services in the United States and internationally. The company delivers a wide range of routine and advanced diagnostic information services through its brands and network of laboratories, serving healthcare providers, insurers, employers, and government institutions.

Shares of the Secaucus, New Jersey.-based company have outperformed the broader market over the past 52 weeks. DGX has returned 19.6% over this time frame, while the broader S&P 500 Index ($SPX) has gained 10.1%. Moreover, Quest Diagnostics stock has soared 12.4% on a YTD basis, compared to SPX's marginal decline.

Looking closer, the medical laboratory operator has also outpaced the Health Care Select Sector SPDR Fund's (XLV) 10.9% drop over the past 52 weeks.

Shares of Quest Diagnostics climbed 6.8% on Apr. 22 after the company reported better-than-expected Q1 2025 results, with adjusted earnings of $2.21 per share. Revenue grew 12% year-over-year to $2.7 billion, also beating Wall Street’s forecast, driven by strong demand for diagnostic tests and increased checkups, especially among older adults. Additionally, investor confidence was reinforced as Quest maintained its full-year adjusted profit guidance of $9.55 per share to $9.80 per share.

For the fiscal year ending in December 2025, analysts expect DGX’s adjusted EPS to grow 8.6% year-over-year to $9.70. The company's earnings surprise history is promising. It topped the consensus estimates in the last four quarters.

Among the 17 analysts covering the stock, the consensus rating is a “Moderate Buy.” That’s based on nine “Strong Buy” ratings and eight “Holds.” 

On Apr. 23, Truist analyst David MacDonald raised Quest Diagnostics' price target to $190 while maintaining a “Hold” rating. The firm cited solid Q1 results, reaffirmed FY25 guidance, favorable LDT ruling, positive tariff commentary, and expected benefits from AI and automation initiatives.

As of writing, DGX is trading below the mean price target of $186.59. The Street-high price target of $200 implies a modest potential upside of 17.9% from the current price levels.