A lack of mergers has allowed them to stay focused on strategy, Their alliances have been a success.
Trading at 12 times 2005 earnings, shares are reflecting a seemingly bearish view of Pfizer's growth prospects, in our opinion. With these low expectations built into the shares, we are encouraged that Pfizer's $4 billion cost restructuring will stabilize near-term earnings.
We view this announcement, following Pfizer's 26% dividend increase in December 2005, as another sign that Pfizer is addressing shareholder concerns and as another step in the right direction for the company.