QuidelOrtho

QuidelOrtho Corp receives a 3-star quantitative star rating, reflecting our opinion that this share class is a balanced choice, but prudent investors should consider looking elsewhere. The stock currently trades at a 27% discount to our quantitative fair value estimate of $16.83 per share; however, caution is warranted due to this estimate's very high uncertainty rating. We require the price/fair value ratio to move a certain amount before the star rating can change. This stability-enhancing buffer is in effect for this stock.

The company's valuation metrics increase our estimated fair value. A company's valuation metrics provide insights into the market's expectations for its future growth and profitability. For example, the firm's enterprise value to EBITDA ratio of 5.2 ranks in the bottom 20% compared with global peers. Relative to the company's EBITDA, the enterprise value of the business is low, which contributes to our view that shares are undervalued.

The firm's profitability is an additional encouraging factor. Highly profitable companies are often more resilient in recessions and are likely to generate stronger future cash flows for shareholders. The firm's earnings yield of 12.6%, a core component of profitability, sits in the top 20% compared with global peers. This suggests that it is generating substantial earnings relative to its share price, which further promotes our favorable price/fair value ratio.

In addition to the aforementioned drivers, our model considers momentum as part of its comprehensive analysis. This share class has been a laggard relative to the broader universe over the past year. This underperformance makes the stock appear cheap, which portends a buying opportunity in light of other contributors to our model.

The company's quantitative economic moat rating of none suggests any excess returns could erode quickly as competition arrives. Additionally, the company's weak financial health rating could portend bankruptcy risk if economic conditions weaken.