Overshadowed last week by Intuitive Surgical's "strong" preliminary Q4 results and 2019 procedure guidance were several positive updates in China, Piper Jaffray analyst JP McKim tells investors in a research note. These included the successful completion of a 63 patient SP trial by Hong Kong University, which highlighted the ability of the system to access hard to reach places and reduced incision, says the analyst. Further, he points out Intuitive's Xi system in China was cleared in December and that the company is now direct through its joint venture Intuitive-Fosun not only for Ion but for da Vinci products as well. McKim expects a ramp in Intuitive Surgical's placements throughout 2019 in China, which he believes should "further fuel above average" procedure growth in 2019 and 2020. The analyst reiterates an Overweight rating on Intuitive Surgical with a $625 price target.

Check out this evening's top movers from around Wall Street, compiled by The Fly. HIGHER AFTER EARNINGSMetropolitan... To see the rest of the story go to thefly.com. See Story Here

Sees FY24 gross profit margin 67%-68%. Sees FY24 operating expense up 11%-15%. Sees FY24 capital expenditures 1B-$1.2B. Sees FY24 tax rate 22%-24%. Says five additional procedures will have reimbursement in Japan by June. Says saw particular strength in the U.S. and the U.K. Comments and guidance taken from Q1 earnings conference call.

Pre-earnings options volume in Intuitive Surgical is 2.0x normal with calls leading puts 10:9. Implied volatility suggests the market is anticipating a move near 4.9%, or $18.11, after results are released. Median move over the past eight quarters is 5.6%.