UnitedHealth has sought meetings with U.S. President Donald Trump, although it has not secured a meeting yet, the Wall Street Journal reported on Sunday.
UnitedHealth Group stands out as the preferred pick over Centene due to scale, diversification, and higher profitability. UNH's integrated model and Optum platform provide more growth avenues and resilience compared to CNC's focus on government-sponsored programs. While CNC trades at a discount, UNH's stronger margins, return on equity, and diversified revenue streams justify its premium valuation.
I remain bullish on UNH for long-term investors, despite current margin pressures and regulatory risks, due to its strong fundamentals and revenue growth. The transition to a Value-Based Care (VBC) model is a key strategic shift that will take time but promises significant profitability improvements once mature. Short-term risks include negative margins in early VBC cohorts, regulatory hurdles, and challenges in accurately estimating medical costs, but these are manageable.
UnitedHealth Group (UNH) was the best-performing stock in the Dow Jones Industrial Average and the S&P 500 on Tuesday after the health care giant said the vast majority of its Medicare Advantage enrollees are likely to qualify for bonus payments from the federal government.
The Dow, S&P 500, and Nasdaq were little changed at midday Tuesday following a report showing weaker-than-anticipated job growth. That raised speculation the Federal Reserve could move next week to cut interest rates more than previously thought.
UnitedHealth's stock is deeply undervalued after a tough 2025, but market pessimism exceeds the company's actual fundamentals. A major premium repricing cycle in 2026 should restore margins and profitability, positioning UnitedHealth for a strong recovery. Valuation multiples are at decade lows, free cash flow is robust, and the dividend yield is near record highs, making this an attractive entry point.
Senators question UNH over tough loan repayment demands post-cyberattack, adding to regulatory and cost pressures.
Current cost headwinds and EPS dip are temporary, with EPS recovery expected within a few quarters as deferred care normalizes. UNH's balance sheet is robust, with ample liquidity and manageable debt, positioning it well to weather temporary cost challenges. At a 34% upside to fair value, risks from political headwinds are likely priced in, making the current valuation highly attractive.
UnitedHealth (UNH) reported earnings 30 days ago. What's next for the stock?
Berkshire's $1.57B bet on UNH sparks investor interest, but soaring costs, weak earnings and legal woes still cloud recovery hopes.
UNH expands behavioral health with Optum's digital tools, partnerships and integrated care to tap rising demand.
UNH's stock collapse is a rare blue-chip event, driven by temporary cost spikes and cyclical headwinds, not a broken business model. Insider and smart money buying—including Berskshire Hathaway's $1.6B stake—signals deep value and a contrarian opportunity at current depressed valuations. Optum's vertical integration and earnings power create a moat; at current prices, I believe the insurance business is essentially free.