4. Medtronic plc (NYSE:MDT)
Current Stock Price as of Writing: $88.51
Hugo gives this medical technology giant a larger role in robotic surgery.
Medtronic plc (NYSE: MDT) has the scale, hospital relationships and broad surgical product lineup to compete seriously in robotic-assisted surgery. Its Hugo system is the centre of that effort. The company has also submitted U.S. filings seeking to expand Hugo into general and gynecologic procedures, areas that could widen the system’s commercial opportunity if the relevant clearances are obtained.
On September 1, Medtronic plc (NYSE: MDT) announced a strategic partnership with Cornerstone Robotics. The arrangement adds another potential route to surgical robot markets alongside Hugo. It is an ambitious move, but investors should focus on what follows: regulatory decisions, installations, procedure growth and the economics of supporting multiple platforms.
Medtronic plc (NYSE: MDT) ranks fourth because it can fund a long competitive campaign. The challenge is that being able to build and distribute robots is only part of the job. Hospitals must keep using them often enough to justify the investment.
