IDEXX Laboratories occupies an enviable position as the dominant provider of veterinary diagnostics, benefiting from the secular trend of rising pet healthcare spending. The company's instruments-and-consumables business model generates highly recurring revenue with strong customer lock-in. At a P/E of 62.9 with $10.01 EPS, the valuation is demanding and reflects the market pricing in sustained high-single-digit growth. The stock has gained 37% over the past year but has pulled back 7% in the last month, trading below its 50-day moving average. The bull case emphasizes the massive untapped opportunity in companion animal diagnostics, increasing pet ownership globally, and the trend toward preventive care. The bear case includes the rich valuation leaving no room for growth disappointments, potential competition from new entrants in point-of-care testing, and sensitivity to discretionary consumer spending on pet healthcare during economic downturns. IDEXX is a best-in-class franchise, but the stock demands perfection.

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Site: IDEXX Laboratories (ID: 2029)