Mizuho Identifies 7 Healthcare Stocks with Near-Term Growth Catalysts

Mizuho has identified a group of U.S. healthcare stocks positioned for growth, citing upcoming clinical catalysts, expanding commercial franchises, and operational improvements as key drivers of shareholder value. The firm's analysis highlights opportunities across the biotechnology, medical device, and healthcare services sectors, with several companies approaching significant data readouts and commercial milestones.

Biotech Catalysts on the Horizon

For several biotechnology firms, upcoming clinical trial results are a primary focus of Mizuho's positive outlook. The firm set an Outperform rating and a $36 price target on EyePoint, Inc. (EYPT), ahead of highly anticipated Phase 3 data for its wet AMD therapy, Duravyu, expected in August 2026.

Similarly, Mizuho rated vaccine developer Vaxcyte (PCVX) as Outperform with a $163 price target. Analysts noted the company's vaccine platform appears more de-risked following positive Phase 2 data, with Phase 3 results for its VAX-31 candidate expected in the fourth quarter of 2026. Oncology-focused Erasca (ERAS) also received an Outperform rating and a $26 price target, with Mizuho calling its RAS inhibitor portfolio a potential multi-billion-dollar franchise.

Commercial Growth and Market Expansion

Mizuho's analysis also pointed to companies with strong commercial execution and market growth potential. Arcutis Biotherapeutics (ARQT) was rated Outperform with a $35 price target, with analysts seeing upside to the company's 2026 Zoryve sales guidance of $480 million to $495 million, driven by an expanded sales force.

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For medical imaging specialist Lantheus Holdings (LNTH), Mizuho assigned an Outperform rating and a $115 price target. The firm highlighted the market leadership of its Pylarify prostate cancer imaging agent, noting the total addressable market is expected to grow by approximately 50% to $3 billion by 2029.

Operational Strength and Value Unlocking

Operational efficiency and strategic initiatives are key to the investment thesis for other companies on Mizuho's list. The firm rates inpatient rehabilitation operator Encompass Health (EHC) as Outperform with a $134 price target, citing rising occupancy rates and plans to add 150 to 200 beds annually to meet demand.

Finally, Solventum (SOLV), a medical technology company, received an Outperform rating and a $100 price target. Mizuho highlighted the company's recent beat-and-raise performance, with proceeds from a business divestiture set to accelerate debt paydown and support operational efficiency programs.