Wells Fargo predicts that data on Medtronic's (MDT) CoreValve/Evolut R, due to be presented on March 17, will show that the device "is superior to surgical aortic valve replacement in intermediate risk patients." If the results come in as expected, the device should be approved in the U.S. by early fall, according to the firm. Wells Fargo adds that the data should also be a positive for other TAVR stocks, including Edwards Lifesciences (EW) and Boston Scientific (BSX). Wells keeps Outperform ratings on all three stocks.

Sees Q2 revenue $1.62B-$1.7B, consensus $1.64B.

Reports Q1 revenue $1.6B, consensus $1.57B. "Edwards is positioned to extend our leadership and deliver sustainable growth as a result of the strategic investments we have made across our transcatheter platforms to address the large and growing needs of patients impacted by aortic, mitral and tricuspid disease. We are pleased with our total company performance with first quarter sales growth of 10% as more patients were treated with our innovative therapies," said Bernard Zovighian, CEO. "This encouraging start to the year supports our increased 2024 sales guidance. Looking beyond 2024, we remain confident in Edwards' innovation-driven strategy, led by new indications, differentiated technologies and strategic adjacencies for addressing the significant unmet needs of structural heart disease patients."

Pre-earnings options volume in Edwards Lifesciences is 5.5x normal with puts leading calls 10:7. Implied volatility suggests the market is anticipating a move near 4.8%, or $4.27, after results are released. Median move over the past eight quarters is 6.3%.

RBC Capital raised the firm's price target on Boston Scientific to $82 from $78 and keeps an Outperform rating on the shares. Given the company's Q1 momentum on seales and earnings, along with its new product ramp, the management's updated FY24 guidance is likely "conservative" despite easier comps, the analyst tells investors in a research note. RBC adds that the stock is its top pick in the Sector based on its "industry-leading growth profile".

Evercore ISI analyst Vijay Kumar raised the firm's price target on Boston Scientific to $78 from $72 and keeps an Outperform rating on the shares as the firm said the company reported "solid results and there wasn't much to pick on." While EP franchise acceleration driven by Farapulse PFA launch "is generally well known" by the Street, the firm says it doesn't think "anyone expected ~86% US growth and ~72% International growth."

Baird analyst David Rescott raised the firm's price target on Boston Scientific to $84 from $79 and keeps an Outperform rating on the shares. The firm noted its 1Q24 revenue/adjusted EPS beat was the biggest over the past several years and one of the most compelling in diversified LGCP MedTech.

Stifel raised the firm's price target on Boston Scientific to $83 from $70 and keeps a Buy rating on the shares. The firm said the company delivered "solid" Q1 outperformance, underpinned by "important" new product launches. Looking ahead to 2024 and beyond, Stifel believes Boston Scientific could continue outperforming their Loan Repayment Program and the firm's projections.

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