** Leerink Partners raises price target on Quest Diagnostics DGX.N stock to $240 from $235 citing stronger‑than‑expected underlying growth
** Brokerage says core testing volumes at the laboratory operator grew about 4%, excluding Corewell Health and Fresenius Medical Care contracts
** Adds that core revenue per test rose about 2.5%, driven by higher tests per visit and better mix from advanced diagnostics
** This points to 6%+ underlying growth alongside solid margin performance - Leerink
** Says productivity gains and automation are helping offset wage pressures, mix‑driven pricing headwinds remain manageable
** Adds that potential impact from U.S. government scrutiny of lab test billing is likely limited, with higher fuel costs already reflected in guidance
** Including session’s move, DGX shares up ~18% YTD
(Reporting by Sahil Pandey in Bengaluru)
((Sahil.Pandey@thomsonreuters.com))