ABT's strong cash flow coverage supports its 52-year dividend growth streak, reflecting robust fundamentals. The Exact Sciences deal talk could further diversify its diagnostics portfolio, enhancing long-term value.

Investor interest in ABT is rising due to potential M&A activity and legal wins, boosting short-term sentiment. The Dexcom news indirectly highlights ABT's competitive positioning in the medical device space.

While ABT's dividend reliability and deal talks are positive, regulatory risks in healthcare and integration challenges from potential acquisitions remain key long-term concerns. The stock's defensive nature may limit upside in a high-growth market.

ABT's technicals show steady volume and price resilience, with RSI indicating neither overbought nor oversold conditions. The 50-day moving average remains above the 200-day, signaling a stable uptrend.