Topic: How To Invest

Pat: Can I have your opinion on the prospects of ResMed? Thank you.

Article Excerpt

ResMed Inc., $31.23, symbol RMD on New York (Shares outstanding: 144.2 million; Market cap: $4.5 billion; www.resmed.com), develops, makes and distributes medical equipment for treating, diagnosing and managing respiratory disorders. It focuses on conditions that occur during sleep, such as obstructive sleep apnea, which affects about 20% of adults. ResMed markets its products through subsidiaries and independent distributors in over 70 countries. It gets 47% of its sales from outside North America. The company often uses acquisitions to add to its product lineup. In July 2011, it bought Ireland-based BiancaMed Ltd., which makes devices that monitor sleep and breathing. The company’s SleepMinder device uses a motion sensor to monitor breathing and movement without being in physical contact with the subject. As well, ResMed recently bought Germany-based Gruendler GmbH, which makes humidifiers that are used for medical purposes. The company’s humidifiers can be used with a wide range of medical ventilators, including neonatal and pediatric devices. These two purchases cost ResMed a total of $64.5…