'Exciting growth opportunity'. Why this ASX 200 share is one to buy and hold onto

Despite a recent downgrade for FY23, this ASX 200 share still expects to increase its net profits by up to 18% in FY 2024.

| More on:
A businessman hugs his computer and smiles.

Image source: Getty Images

You’re reading a free article with opinions that may differ from The Motley Fool’s Premium Investing Services. Become a Motley Fool member today to get instant access to our top analyst recommendations, in-depth research, investing resources, and more. Learn More

S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) share CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL) closed down 0.4% yesterday, ending the day trading for $266.27 per share.

That sees the biotechnology company down 5.6% since the opening bell on 3 January.

As you can see in the chart below, the ASX 200 share came under some selling pressure back on 14 June.

That's when CSL downgraded its FY23 profit guidance following stiffer-than-expected foreign currency headwinds of around US$230 million to US$250 million. The biotech stock had previously forecast an impact of US$175 million.

Still, CSL estimated FY24 will see a 13% to 18% year on year increase in its net profits after tax and amortisation (NPATA). NPATA is forecast to be approximately US$2.9 billion to US$3 billion at constant currency.

Not bad.

Indeed, according to Rob Crookston, equity strategist at Wilsons Advisory, this ASX 200 share offers some exciting growth opportunities in the years ahead.

Reasons to be bullish on this ASX 200 share

Crookston cited "technological advancements, changing demographics, and increasing global health needs" as reasons he sees investment opportunities in the healthcare sector.

ASX 200 healthcare shares "such as CSL, are well-positioned to benefit from these trends," he said.

Among the reasons CSL stands out, Crookston said that, "As the world recovers from the COVID-19 pandemic, CSL's core plasma business, Behring, is well-positioned to benefit from the rebound in plasma demand."

And an expected increase in profit margins could offer some tailwinds for this ASX 200 share.

"We expect costs to fall over time as collection centres ramp up supply, improving core plasma margins," Crookston said.

As for the growth outlook, Crookston noted:

CSL's robust pipeline of new products presents an exciting growth opportunity. As these new products progress through clinical trials and receive regulatory approvals they have the potential to drive future earnings growth and strengthen CSL's market position.

Then there's the company's "commitment to reinvesting in innovation", which Crookston said "ensures a sustainable competitive advantage".

According to Crookston:

This reinvestment allows CSL to stay at the forefront of medical advancements and maintain the aforementioned strong pipeline of innovative products. A key reason the company has been able to compound earnings over the long-term. 

Wilsons estimates a 17% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) over the next five years for this ASX 200 share, with "earnings upside potential from expected product launches over the coming years".

Crookston said that with a current 12-month forward price-to-earnings (P/E) multiple of about 28 times, "CSL looks very attractive on a long-term basis." 

Motley Fool contributor Bernd Struben has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia's parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended CSL. The Motley Fool Australia has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

More on Healthcare Shares

A woman jumps for joy with a rocket drawn on the wall behind her.
Healthcare Shares

Guess which ASX healthcare stock is jumping 7% on US FDA approval news

This share is giving its shareholders an early Christmas present.

Read more »

A senior pharmacist talks to a customer at the counter in a shop
Healthcare Shares

Is it too late to buy Sigma shares to cash in on the Chemist Warehouse deal?

Can investors still make healthy returns with this stock?

Read more »

Shot of a scientist using a computer while conducting research in a laboratory.
Healthcare Shares

Why the Mesoblast share price is diving 18% after an FDA win

Investors are sending the Mesoblast share price tumbling on Friday. But why?

Read more »

A happy doctor in a white coat dancing due to his excitement over the EBOS acquisition
Healthcare Shares

Mesoblast share price rockets 30% on big US FDA news

Big news is giving this biotech a huge lift on Thursday.

Read more »

Two scientists in a Rhythm Biosciences lab cheer while looking at results on a computer.
Healthcare Shares

Guess which ASX healthcare stock is jumping 12% on Wednesday

This shares is rocketing this morning. But why? Let's find out.

Read more »

Man holding out Australian dollar notes, symbolising dividends.
Healthcare Shares

Here is the dividend forecast to 2029 for CSL shares

Can this blue-chip giant provide healthy dividend income?

Read more »

a doctor in a white coat makes a heart shape with his hands and holds it over his chest where his heart is placed.
Healthcare Shares

The best ASX 200 healthcare stocks to buy in 2025

These shares could give your portfolio a healthy boost next year according to Bell Potter.

Read more »

In the lab at work, the mature adult woman and young adult man smile as they review the results of their successful experimentation.
Healthcare Shares

ASX 300 healthcare stock lifts off on promising new results

Up 28% in a year, the ASX healthcare stock is leaping higher on Thursday.

Read more »