Waters Corp. beat earnings estimates but fell on weak Q1 guidance despite raising 2026 outlook.

Waters Corporation (WAT) posted strong Q4 earnings with $4.53 EPS and 6.9% revenue growth, exceeding estimates, and raised its 2026 full-year EPS guidance to $14.30–$14.50. Despite a "Moderate Buy" consensus rating and an average target of $397.68, shares fell after management signaled a weak Q1 outlook, prompting Bank of America and Wells Fargo to lower targets. The stock, trading at $319.88, remains below key moving averages. Waters serves global markets in pharmaceuticals, biotech, food, and environmental testing, and recently completed a strategic combination with BD, which may support long-term growth.