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Agilent acquires AI startup to improve lab operations

EditorTanya Mishra
Published 07/29/2024, 10:09 AM
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Agilent Technologies Inc. (NYSE: NYSE:A), a firm in analytical and clinical laboratory technologies, has acquired Sigsense Technologies, a San Francisco-based startup specializing in artificial intelligence for laboratory operations.

The financial details of the transaction, which took place earlier on Monday, remain undisclosed.

Sigsense Technologies' artificial intelligence and power monitoring solutions are now integrated into Agilent's CrossLab Connect, a suite of digital applications designed to improve laboratory efficiency. This suite includes inventory management, service management, asset monitoring, smart alerts, and asset lifecycle analytics.

The company claims that the Sigsense technology enables lab managers to track instrument utilization and status across various scientific assets, regardless of the vendor or manufacturer. The AI-driven insights help identify underperforming assets and provide recommendations for optimization, contributing to reduced downtime and increased productivity.

Armin Jehle, vice president of Agilent CrossLab Services Division, said, "We are excited to welcome the Sigsense team to Agilent. By working closely as one team, we will extend their AI technology further, enabling more customers to gain insights that contribute to reduced downtime and increased productivity."

CrossLab Connect's asset monitoring is particularly crucial for commercial laboratories with extensive instrument fleets and demanding schedules. The platform supports a wide array of instruments, including chromatography, mass spectrometry, spectroscopy, liquid handlers, and more.

Agilent, which generated revenue of $6.83 billion in fiscal 2023 and employs approximately 18,000 people globally, continues to expand its portfolio of solutions that provide trusted answers to complex scientific questions.

Agilent had reported mixed results for the second quarter of 2024. Despite a 7.4% decline in revenue, totaling $1.573 billion, the company's earnings per share of $1.22 exceeded expectations. The full-year core revenue outlook has been revised, projecting a decrease between 4.3% and 5.4%, with earnings per share anticipated to be between $5.15 and $5.25. The company also announced its plan to repurchase $750 million of its common stock and aims for $100 million in annualized savings by the fiscal year-end.

InvestingPro Insights

Following the recent acquisition of Sigsense Technologies, Agilent Technologies Inc. (NYSE: A) demonstrates its commitment to innovation and efficiency in the laboratory space. As Agilent integrates AI-driven solutions to enhance its CrossLab Connect services, it's worth noting that the company's financial health and market position remain robust. Here's a snapshot of Agilent's current market standing based on real-time data from InvestingPro:

  • The company boasts a substantial market capitalization of $39.68 billion, reflecting its significant presence in the industry.
  • Agilent trades at a high earnings multiple, with a P/E ratio of 32.27 and a slightly adjusted P/E ratio for the last twelve months as of Q2 2024 at 30.43, indicating investor confidence in its future earnings potential.
  • Despite fluctuations in revenue with a -6.38% change over the last twelve months as of Q2 2024, Agilent maintains a solid gross profit margin of 50.63%, showcasing its ability to control costs and generate earnings efficiently.

InvestingPro Tips highlight that Agilent has been consistent in its financial strategy, with management aggressively buying back shares and maintaining dividend payments for 13 consecutive years. These actions reflect a shareholder-friendly approach and a stable financial outlook for the company.

For investors seeking deeper insights and additional analysis, InvestingPro offers more tips on Agilent Technologies Inc. To explore these valuable perspectives, visit: https://www.investing.com/pro/A. Currently, there are 14 additional InvestingPro Tips available, providing a comprehensive look at the company's financial health and market performance.

Interested readers can use the coupon code PRONEWS24 to get up to 10% off a yearly Pro and a yearly or biyearly Pro+ subscription, gaining access to exclusive data and insights that can inform investment decisions.

This article was generated with the support of AI and reviewed by an editor. For more information see our T&C.

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