Top medtech trends in 2025: New products and M&A are bright spots, but Trump brings uncertainty
Medical technology companies are optimistic about 2025, with new product launches and merger and acquisition activities expected to be active, but the Trump administration's tariff policies and FDA personnel changes may bring uncertainty. In the surgical robot field, Intuitive Surgical's da Vinci 5 system will be fully launched, while facing competition from newcomers like CMR Surgical. AI device approvals have exceeded a thousand, and the FDA's new guidelines provide a clear path.

Medical technology companies have plenty to look forward to in 2025. Whether it's advancing new products or buying up companies and businesses, the industry is set up for another busy year after an eventful 2024.
Wall Street analysts said surgical robotics is a top market to watch, particularly Intuitive Surgical’s expanding launch of the da Vinci 5 soft tissue system. Intuitive began a limited launch last year to much analyst acclaim. After already beating placement expectations, the company will move into a full launch later this year.
Despite da Vinci 5’s early success, Intuitive may not run away with the market. Newcomers like CMR Surgical and Moon Surgical are ready to challenge the longtime leader.
Meanwhile, experts expect the device sector to continue embracing artificial intelligence. The Food and Drug Administration has already approved more than 1,000 AI-enabled devices, and the agency has issued new guidance, providing clarity for developers hoping to bring products to market and keep ones already launched up to date.
However, companies face potential challenges. President Donald Trump is still focused on enacting new tariffs on countries like China, Mexico and Canada after making threats throughout his campaign. There are also concerns about new stances on regulations and longer product approval timelines if a flood of federal employees leaves the FDA, creating staffing shortages.
Trump, on the other hand, could be a positive for device firms. Analysts said dealmaking would pick up this year under a more M&A-friendly administration.
Here are the biggest medtech trends to watch in 2025: