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UNH | UnitedHealth Group (UNH) | BearishNYSE:UNH Technical Analysis of UnitedHealth Group (UNH) Key Observations: Current Price Action: Price: $498.50 Recent Drop: -21.98 (-4.22%) Support and Resistance Levels: Immediate Support: $475.87 (Target Price 1) Further Supports: $436.72 (Target Price 2) Resistance: The price recently broke below previous support around $525-$530, confirming bearish momentum. Trendlines: The price has clearly broken below a key upward trendline. The breakdown signals a shift from a bullish to a bearish trend, with lower highs (LH) and lower lows (LL) forming. Relative Strength Index (RSI): Current RSI: Below 30 (Oversold Zone). The RSI indicates heavy selling pressure, suggesting the stock may be oversold, but bearish momentum remains intact. Target Prices: Target Price 1: $475.87 This level acts as immediate support where price could pause or consolidate. Target Price 2: $436.72 If the price breaches the $475.87 level, the next key support lies at $436.72. Summary: UnitedHealth Group (UNH) is showing clear bearish signs, having broken below critical support and its upward trendline. The RSI indicates an oversold condition, but momentum remains downward. Key levels to monitor are $475.87 (Target 1) and $436.72 (Target 2). Any recovery will need to overcome resistance at $525-$530 for a trend reversal.
NYSE:UNHShort
by shkspr
UNH Selloff Unreasonable - Still 15% ROI Short-TermSince my first NYSE:UNH idea a couple of days ago the price of this stock dropped significantly. If you've been part of the first idea you should've been able to lock in around 1.x% of return when using a tight stop-loss. Otherwise you've been stopped out with break-even. Nevertheless, the sell-off was not helpful and is completely exaggerating the situation at UNH since the company is not really effected by the current PBM debate. "Deutsche Bank sees a potential divestiture as not having a significant impact on earnings, estimating the risk at likely less than $200M of the company’s roughly $30B+ operating earnings. Deutsche Bank noted, however, that CVS (CVS), Cigna (CI) and UnitedHealth (NYSE:UNH) 'could face additional risk from losing the ability to vertically integrate the PBM, fulfillment and manufacturing functions of biosimilars through organizations like Cordavis and Quallent.' Despite concerns about the potential breakup of their pharmacy businesses, Deutsche Bank maintained it's buy rating on UnitedHealth (UNH)." From a technical standpoint we can see a confluence of support: Weekly SMA200 Strong Trendline from March 2020 Horizontal Support at $480 UNH managed to bounce from the trendline intraday today. This could mean we're going to see a turnaround from here. If we break below the trendline on the daily chart this trade will be invalidated. Otherwise our target sits at $550.
NYSE:UNHLong
by LGNDRY-Capital
1
UNITEDHEALTH GROUP | THE BEAR'S CLAIM: $UNH PAYS THE PRICE Dec17UNITEDHEALTH GROUP | THE BEAR'S CLAIM: NYSE:UNH PAYS THE PRICE Dec17 UnitedHealth Group, NYSE:UNH , UNH NYSE:UNH Trends: NYSE:UNH Weekly Trend: Bearish NYSE:UNH Daily Trend: Bearish NYSE:UNH 4H Trend: Bearish NYSE:UNH 1H Trend: Bearish NYSE:UNH Price Target Areas: NYSE:UNH BUY/LONG ZONE (GREEN): $488.75 - $514.75 NYSE:UNH DO NOT TRADE/DNT ZONE (WHITE): $480.00 - $488.75 NYSE:UNH SELL/SHORT ZONE (RED): $455.00 - $480.00 All indicators are pointing to bearish for $UNH. Looking at the monthly timeframe we can see there is a range that was respected between the levels of 480 up to 555. After price finally broke the level of 555 a new range began. 560 up to 615/620 area. Given the recent news and events; the stock has since seen a deep bearish trend. Momentum has taken price all the way back down to the previous range low of 480. Price currently rests on 480. Bears should seek continuation and target levels of 455/460, or even down to 415. Bulls should look for a reversal marked by breaks over 488.75 on the lower timeframes, or the 549 area for a higher frame reversal. This is what I would personally look at before entering trades, everything is subject to change on a daily basis and as I analyze different timeframes and ideas. ENTERTAINMENT PURPOSES ONLY, NOT FINANCIAL ADVICE! trendanalysis, trendtrading, priceaction, priceactiontrading, technicalindicators, supportandresistance, rangebreakout, rangebreakdown, rangetrading, chartpatterntrading, chartpatterns, unh, unitedhealth, unitedhealthgroup, NYSE:UNH , insurance, insuranceclaims, unhinsurance, unhclaims, unhdeductible, unhstock, unhprice, unhtarget, unhsetup, unhtrade, unhzone, medicare, unhanalysis, unitedhealthanalysis, unhtradeidea, unhidea, unhrecentevents,
NYSE:UNHShort
by TonyAiello
Buy Recommendation Note for UnitedHealth Group (UNH)Recommendation: Buy Buy Zone: $551.50 - $557.00 Target: $600.00 (Short-Term), $650.00 (Medium-Term) Rationale Strong Fundamentals: UnitedHealth Group has consistently delivered robust revenue growth driven by its diversified healthcare services and insurance offerings. Industry Leadership: As a leader in the healthcare sector, UNH benefits from its scale, market share, and innovative healthcare solutions, ensuring long-term stability. Positive Outlook: Recent developments and earnings reports indicate strong growth potential, supported by increasing demand for managed healthcare services. Valuation: Current levels provide a favorable risk-to-reward ratio for entry, with the stock trading near a key support zone. Technical Analysis The stock has shown strong support in the $551.50 - $557 range, making it an attractive buying opportunity. A breakout above $560 could signal a bullish continuation toward the target zones. Technical Analysis The stock has shown strong support in the $551.50 - $557 range, making it an attractive buying opportunity. A breakout above $560 could signal a bullish continuation toward the target zones. Disclaimer: This note is for study and informational purposes only. The recommendations and price levels mentioned are based on market observations and are not a guarantee of performance. Please consult with a licensed financial advisor and carefully consider your risk tolerance before making any investment decisions. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investing in stocks carries inherent risks, including the potential loss of capital.
NYSE:UNHLong
by KSLBroking
4
UNH Bounce - Don't Miss Out On This 15% OpportunityNYSE:UNH dropped after the tragic death of UnitedHealthcare CEO (not UNH Group CEO) as well as public backlash. Nevertheless, as always in such situation, this has nothing to do with the stock itself. As price action traders we do not trade political or news events since those drops have an unimportant impact mid- to long-term. UNH now sits on the support zone at around $550 which was previous resistance. We also filled the daily gap at around $568 completely. We touched the 0.236 Fib from the $273 bottom (from 2020) and the RSI is nearly oversold on the daily. This gives us a got chance for a bounce from this zone up to $600 - $620. Support Levels: $550 $528 Target/Resistance Levels: $600 $622-628
NYSE:UNHLong
by LGNDRY-Capital
1
$UNH Bad News Longs.NYSE:UNH Recent news should (I believe will) put an end to the madness imaginary run from the corrupt world of health insurance. News circulating NYSE:UNH was a top denier of benefits and claims, only will get worse. A CEO involved in a hit sh**ting? They won't find the "guy" and I assume they will make an arrest but not the actual one who did it. Mmn, conspiracy, yes. But, similar pattern evolving on the chart as well, almost like it all makes sense. Might be a good time to short the health/insurance sector.. maybe.. BlueCross BlueShield just cut back on paying for patients anesthesia in NY, CT, and MO. They are against the people.. biggest ponzi-scheme ever. $555 target, break $500 I see $530. A lot of bearish flow poured in today as well. Months out puts. Not financial advice. wall street .. loser
NYSE:UNHShort
by wallstreetloser001
UnitedHealth Group ($UNH) Faces Surge in Medical CostsUnitedHealth Group Inc. (NYSE: NYSE:UNH ), one of the largest health insurers in the United States, reported a 3% drop in share price following its Q3 2024 earnings report. The company's results highlighted an uptick in medical costs as it grapples with challenges in its insurance business, including lower government payments and persistently high healthcare demand. Let’s break down the key aspects driving the stock's recent performance. Elevated Costs and Earnings Beat UnitedHealth's Q3 2024 results showed a significant rise in its medical loss ratio (MLR)—the percentage of premiums used to cover medical costs. The MLR rose to 85.2%, exceeding both last year’s figure (82.3%) and analysts’ expectations of 84.2%. This surge in costs is attributed to an increase in healthcare services under Medicare plans, particularly for individuals aged 65 and older, as postponed procedures from the COVID-19 pandemic catch up. Additionally, turnover in Medicaid has left insurers with a sicker patient base, further elevating costs. Despite these challenges, UnitedHealth delivered an adjusted profit of $7.15 per share, beating Wall Street estimates by 15 cents. The company's revenues hit $100.8 billion, surpassing the $99.28 billion expected by analysts, thanks to strong growth in its healthcare services businesses under Optum and insurance offerings under UnitedHealthcare. Key highlights: - Optum Health revenue grew by $2.1 billion, driven by the expansion of value-based care and in-home patient services. - Optum Rx, the company’s pharmacy services division, saw revenue growth of $5.4 billion, fueled by new clients and expanded pharmacy offerings. - Medicare and Medicaid pressures persisted, with the company facing government funding reductions and a sicker Medicaid population due to eligibility redeterminations. While the overall financial performance was positive, the rise in medical costs and increased demand for healthcare services, particularly from Medicare and Medicaid plans, weighed on investor sentiment, contributing to the drop in stock price. Technical Outlook: Bearish Signs Emerge On the technical front, NYSE:UNH stock has entered a bearish trend following the earnings report, and it is currently down 3.54% in Tuesday’s pre-market trading. On Monday, the stock saw a 1.60% gain but quickly reversed as the negative aspects of the earnings report began to dominate market sentiment. The stock has broken below its symmetrical triangle pattern, confirming a bearish continuation pattern. The Relative Strength Index (RSI) was 66 on Monday, indicating the stock was approaching overbought territory. However, the sharp decline in pre-market trading has relieved some of this pressure. If the bearish momentum continues, the RSI could dip below 50, signaling further downside potential. Immediate support lies at $530, the base of the triangle pattern, where the stock may find some consolidation. The stock is currently hovering around its 50-day. A break below these levels could reinforce the bearish sentiment and signal further downside to come. What Can Investors Expect? From a fundamental perspective, UnitedHealth's revenue growth and earnings beat show that the company remains a leader in the healthcare sector, with its Optum businesses continuing to drive profitability. However, the elevated medical costs, particularly related to Medicare and Medicaid, could be a persistent headwind. Regulatory changes or adjustments in Medicaid enrollment could also add to volatility in the coming quarters. On the technical side, the break below the triangle pattern is a bearish signal, and further downside toward the $530 support level seems likely if sentiment does not improve. Investors should watch for signs of consolidation at these levels or a potential breakdown, which could push the stock even lower. Conclusion UnitedHealth Group (NYSE: NYSE:UNH ) remains a strong company with a diverse portfolio spanning insurance and healthcare services. However, its near-term outlook is clouded by rising medical costs, Medicare funding challenges, and Medicaid enrollment fluctuations. Technically, the stock is in a bearish phase, but key support levels could provide opportunities for long-term investors if the stock consolidates or rebounds.
NYSE:UNHShort
by DEXWireNews
UNITED HEALTH forming a bottom.United Health (UNH) gave an excellent dip buy opportunity last time (March 29, see chart below), with the price even breaking above the long-term Resistance Zone eventually: The price has since entered a Channel Up pattern with the price now below its 1D MA50 (blue trend-line), having already topped and attempting to form a new Higher Low at the bottom of the pattern. Like the previous one in June, this bottoming process can take another 3 weeks, so we will time it accordingly and target 675.00 (+21.00% rise, similar to both previous Bullish Legs). ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ** Please LIKE 👍, FOLLOW ✅, SHARE 🙌 and COMMENT ✍ if you enjoy this idea! Also share your ideas and charts in the comments section below! This is best way to keep it relevant, support us, keep the content here free and allow the idea to reach as many people as possible. ** ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 💸💸💸💸💸💸 👇 👇 👇 👇 👇 👇
NYSE:UNHLong
by TradingShot
ALERT! Healthcare Stocks? $UNH 70% decline! Sub $200 possible. I've been watching and keeping this quiet for a while now and I am now extremely confident of this trade. NYSE:UNH headed for the dumps as technicals show signs of a 70% decline ahead in the next year. This is a developing trade and I do not have any news to support this drop however, I am certain. The Weekly is currently in a bear flag the same exaact way. After a huge run, UNH looks to be running out of steam. The RSI matches around 70 on the 10D timeframe and the MACD is also coming from a negative area into bullish territory, yet the bearish divergence is clear imo. I will be glady entering long puts up here. I will continuously update this trade. See you Next year. Use this chart as a reference to current chart.
NYSE:UNHShort
by TazmanianTrader
UnitedHealth (UNH) Share Price Surges after Strong ReportUnitedHealth (UNH) Share Price Surges after Strong Report UnitedHealth shares surged Tuesday, rising more than 5% after the health care giant delivered stronger-than-expected first-quarter 2024 results: → earnings per share: actual = USD 6.91, expected = USD 6.61, last quarter = USD 6.16; → gross income: actual = USD 94.4 billion, expected = USD 92.1 billion. UnitedHealth CEO Andrew Whitty said health care costs rose sharply last year, and he attributed much of the rise to the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic. Also adding positive news to investors was UnitedHealth Group's handling of the Feb. 21 cyberattack on its Change Healthcare subsidiary, which disrupted hospital and pharmacy operations for more than a week and cost an estimated USD 872 million. Technical analysis of the UNH stock chart shows that: → starting in 2022, the price moves within the range between support at USD 450 and resistance at USD 550 per share; → false breakouts of the indicated levels occurred repeatedly; → as a result of the publication of the report, another false breakdown of support was formed at USD 450 per UNH share; → growth after the report occurred with a gap in the area of USD 450-465, which can serve as support; → it is possible that a test of the gap will form on the chart and growth will at least reach the mid-channel level of USD 500 per share. According to analysts surveyed by TipRank, the average price forecast for UMH shares is USD 591.29 in 12 months (more than +25% from the current price). This article represents the opinion of the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand only. It is not to be construed as an offer, solicitation, or recommendation with respect to products and services provided by the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand, nor is it to be considered financial advice.
NYSE:UNH
by FXOpen
1
UnitedHealth Shares Surge 4.91% on Q1 Earnings UpdateUnitedHealth Group ( NYSE:UNH ), the titan of the health insurance industry, emerged triumphant in the face of daunting challenges as it delivered a stellar performance in its first-quarter earnings update. Despite grappling with a surge in medical payouts and the financial fallout from a crippling cyberattack, UnitedHealth's resilience shone through, propelling its shares to a robust 4.91% surge in early trading. Earnings Beat and Resilience: UnitedHealth ( NYSE:UNH ) reported adjusted earnings of $6.91 per share for the first quarter, exceeding Wall Street's expectations by 30 cents. The impressive 10.4% year-over-year growth underscored the company's ability to navigate turbulent waters while maintaining its upward trajectory. Revenue Strength and Optum Dominance: Bolstered by robust revenue figures, UnitedHealth showcased its financial prowess with group revenues surging 8.55% to $99.8 billion. Notably, Optum, the crown jewel of UnitedHealth's empire, saw its revenue soar 22.2% to $61.1 billion, cementing its position as the primary engine of the group's earnings growth. Medical Cost Challenges and Cyberattack Fallout: Amidst the triumph, UnitedHealth ( NYSE:UNH ) faced headwinds in the form of rising medical costs, reflected in a nearly 2-percentage-point increase in the medical-cost ratio to 84.3%. Furthermore, the company grappled with the aftermath of the Blackcat cyberattacks, which inflicted an $872 million blow to its Change Healthcare unit. Despite these setbacks, UnitedHealth ( NYSE:UNH ) remained steadfast in its commitment to delivering value to its stakeholders. Outlook and Forward Momentum: CEO Andrew Witty reaffirmed UnitedHealth's full-year adjusted earnings forecast, projecting a range between $27.50 and $28 per share. However, the company acknowledged the looming impact of the cyberattack, with potential costs soaring to as high as $1.6 billion for the year. Despite these challenges, Witty emphasized the company's unwavering focus on enhancing customer experiences and driving balanced growth. Market Response and Sector Challenges: The market responded enthusiastically to UnitedHealth's resilience, with shares surging 7.75% in pre-market trading. However, the broader healthcare sector faces mounting pressures, including tepid Medicare Advantage payment increases and regulatory scrutiny on pharmacy-benefit managers. Nonetheless, UnitedHealth's robust performance signals a beacon of hope amidst the industry's tumultuous landscape.
NYSE:UNHLong
by DEXWireNews
UNH UnitedHealth Group Incorporated Options Ahead of EarningsIf you haven`t bought UNH before the previous earnings: Then analyzing the options chain and the chart patterns of UNH UnitedHealth Group Incorporated prior to the earnings report this week, I would consider purchasing the 440usd strike price at the money Puts with an expiration date of 2024-4-19, for a premium of approximately $10.65. If these options prove to be profitable prior to the earnings release, I would sell at least half of them.
NYSE:UNHShort
by TopgOptions
Medicare Advantage Rates Shake Health Insurers:The healthcare sector witnessed a significant upheaval as UnitedHealth ( NYSE:UNH ) and other major players tumbled following the Biden Administration's announcement regarding Medicare Advantage rates for 2025. The unexpected decision sent shockwaves through the industry, prompting a flurry of market activity and sparking concerns among investors. Impact on Health Insurers: The Biden Administration's announcement that final Medicare Advantage rates in 2025 will remain unchanged from initial plans in January dealt a blow to major health insurers, particularly UnitedHealth and Humana. Both companies, as leading Medicare Advantage players, experienced substantial declines in their stock prices, with Humana plunging 9.4% and UnitedHealth sinking 4% in premarket trading. Market Response and Investor Sentiment: The market response was swift and decisive, with other health insurers such as CVS Health and Cigna also witnessing notable retreats in their stock prices. CVS Health, a significant Medicare Advantage player, saw its stock retreat by 4% overnight, while Cigna experienced a 1.1% dip early Tuesday. Smaller players in the Medicare Advantage market, including Centene and Molina Healthcare, were not spared from the downturn, reflecting the broad impact of the announcement on the industry. Technical Outlook and Bearish Trend: UnitedHealth's stock is currently entrenched in a bearish trend, underscored by a Relative Strength Index (RSI) of 44.88 and trading below its respective Moving Averages (MA). This technical analysis further validates the bearish sentiment surrounding NYSE:UNH stock and highlights the challenges it faces in the current market environment. Implications for the Healthcare Sector: The Biden Administration's decision regarding Medicare Advantage rates in 2025 has far-reaching implications for the healthcare sector, potentially reshaping the competitive landscape and impacting revenue streams for major insurers. As companies navigate this period of uncertainty, strategic agility and resilience will be crucial in mitigating risks and seizing opportunities amidst evolving market dynamics.
NYSE:UNHShort
by DEXWireNews
UNITED HEALTH Time to buy again?Last time we looked into United Health (UNH) we gave a strong buy signal (October 03 2023, see chart below), which turned out to be very successful: After getting rejected on Resistance 3, the stock started to decline structurally within a Channel Down. It is a pattern similar to the Channel Down of November 2022 - March 2023, which was again formed after UNH got rejected within the 2-year Resistance Zone, like it happened this time. There is a high symmetry these past 2 years within the Resistance and Support Zones, so we expect the price to act accordingly. As a result, having already formed a 1D Death Cross, we expect the price to make one last Low towards the Support Zone (as long as the 1D MA50 holds as Resistance) and then rebound, which is what took place on March 10 2023, above the 0.618 Fibonacci retracement level. As a result, we will time our buy accordingly and target $517.00 (Fib 0.618). An additional buy signal would be if the 1W RSI makes a Double Bottom, similar again to March 10 2023. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ** Please LIKE 👍, FOLLOW ✅, SHARE 🙌 and COMMENT ✍ if you enjoy this idea! Also share your ideas and charts in the comments section below! This is best way to keep it relevant, support us, keep the content here free and allow the idea to reach as many people as possible. ** ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 💸💸💸💸💸💸 👇 👇 👇 👇 👇 👇
NYSE:UNH
by TradingShot
UNH Stock tumble after report of antitrust investigationUnitedHealth Group ( NYSE:UNH ) finds itself navigating turbulent waters as it confronts both regulatory scrutiny and cybersecurity disruptions. The recent revelation of a U.S. Department of Justice antitrust investigation has sent shockwaves through the healthcare conglomerate, causing its shares to plummet by about 5%. This investigation, as reported by The Wall Street Journal, casts a shadow over UnitedHealth's ( NYSE:UNH ) acquisitions made through its health services arm, Optum, raising concerns about potential monopolistic practices and their impact on competition within the healthcare industry. The timing couldn't be more precarious, as UnitedHealth ( NYSE:UNH ) grapples with the fallout from a cybersecurity attack on its Change Healthcare unit, which has led to an eight-day outage. The prolonged disruption has not only rattled investor confidence but has also triggered operational challenges for the conglomerate and its partners, including pharmacy chains like CVS Health. Analysts are quick to underscore the significance of these developments. Scott Fidel, an analyst at Stephens, aptly describes it as a "tough past week of headlines for UnitedHealth." The market reaction has been swift and severe, with more than $25 billion wiped out from UnitedHealth's market value, exacerbating losses incurred earlier in the week. The ramifications of the reported antitrust probe extend beyond UnitedHealth ( NYSE:UNH ), casting a shadow of uncertainty over its competitors. Humana and CVS Health, both with aspirations in caregiving akin to UnitedHealth's Optum arm, have witnessed declines in their respective stock prices, signaling investor apprehension about the potential ripple effects of the investigation. Julie Utterback, an analyst at Morningstar, underscores the interconnectedness of the healthcare landscape, suggesting that the investigation could have implications for CVS and Humana, especially if it expands further. The specifics of the investigation delve into the intricate relationships between UnitedHealthcare ( NYSE:UNH ) and Optum, probing into potential conflicts of interest and anti-competitive behaviors. Such scrutiny underscores the complexities inherent in the intersection of insurance and healthcare services, where conglomerates like UnitedHealth wield considerable influence. Meanwhile, Change Healthcare continues to grapple with the aftermath of the cybersecurity incident, with disruptions expected to persist. The impact reverberates across the healthcare ecosystem, affecting not only UnitedHealth but also its partners and clients, including pharmacy chains reliant on its services. As UnitedHealth ( NYSE:UNH ) navigates these challenges, stakeholders are left pondering the company's resilience and the broader implications for the healthcare industry. Will regulatory scrutiny force a reassessment of consolidation strategies? Can UnitedHealth ( NYSE:UNH ) effectively mitigate cybersecurity risks and restore trust in its operations?
NYSE:UNH
by DEXWireNews
LLY rides its success against obesity and diabetes LONGLLY shown on a daily chart has doubled in the past year with the introduction of new FDA approved drugs into the market. It has but out a series of favorable earnings reports with optimistic realistic guidance and glowing analysts' forecasts. It has done so without any volume pumps and just keeps grinding higher. This is because it is in the shadows of big technology stocks. Revenues consistently beat analysts' forecasts quarter after quarter. Institutions add small lots trying to preserve the price for future buys without any run-ups. I have done the same thing and I will continue to do so. While day trading biotechnology penny stocks, LLY along with UNH, PFE, and AZN is where the profits are parked for growth and compounding.
NYSE:LLYLong
by AwesomeAvani
1
UNH, the dominate health insurance market leader LONGAs shown on the 4H chart, UNH based on a long-term VWAP band setup, it as fiar value for the first time since September. This dip is significant as price fell from a head and shoulders pattern of three months duration. The candles in the past couple of days show the reversal at the mean VWAP support. I have retrieved 60% out of a near term expiration call option. Some may say this is simply a death cross on a pair of moving averages with a bit of correction on the overall downtrend. I understand that point of view. Notwithstanding that perspective, healthcare is expected to be an outperforming sector in 2024. UNH is on sale. As a healthcare provider, it has paid me large sums in the historical past. I will take trades as described in the text box on the chart. I believe buying out of the money and at a discount will be a good strategy for this megacap moving forward.
CAPITALCOM:UNHLong
by AwesomeAvani
UnitedHealth Group ($UNH) Shakes Investors with 4Q Earnings UnitedHealth Group ( NYSE:UNH ) recently made headlines as it unveiled its fourth-quarter earnings, leaving investors with mixed sentiments. While the numbers beat estimates, concerns over rising medical costs and future pricing strategies have cast a shadow on the stock's performance. This article delves into the intricacies of NYSE:UNH 's financial report, analyzes the factors driving its market movement, and examines the outlook for the healthcare giant in the coming quarters. Breaking Down the Numbers: Analysts anticipated fourth-quarter earnings per share (EPS) of $5.98 for UNH, reflecting a 12% YoY increase. Surpassing expectations, UNH reported an impressive 15.4% growth in EPS, reaching $6.16 per share. Revenue also outpaced estimates, rising by 14.1% to $94.4 billion. However, the spotlight fell on the medical cost ratio, which climbed to 85 in Q4, exceeding analysts' projections. This ratio, representing the percentage of premiums spent on members' health needs, raised concerns about the sustainability of UNH's profit margins. Factors Driving the Numbers: NYSE:UNH attributed the elevated medical cost ratio to several ongoing factors, including the provision of outpatient care, primarily serving seniors, and the composition of its business mix. The company highlighted that coverage in government programs tended to incur higher costs compared to commercial coverage. Additionally, UNH acknowledged a $100 million unfavorable development in medical reserves during Q4, signaling potential challenges in managing future healthcare costs. Outlook and Pricing Pressure: Despite the strong performance, UNH maintained its full-year EPS guidance of $27.50 to $28, suggesting confidence in its ability to navigate challenges. However, analysts expressed concerns over the unexpected rise in the medical cost ratio, emphasizing the potential impact on pricing strategies in 2024. The company recognized a $100 million unfavorable development in medical reserves during Q4, marking the first negative revision since 4Q16. Analysts believe these details indicate heightened pressure on pricing in the coming years. Stock Market Reaction: Following the earnings release, UNH stock experienced a 3.65% decline to $520 in early Friday market action. The stock had previously shown signs of resilience by climbing 0.4% on Thursday, surpassing its 50-day and 10-week moving averages. Despite a consolidation period dating back to November 2022, UNH has struggled to gain significant momentum since April 2022. The relative strength line, tracking the stock's performance against the S&P 500 index, has been on a downward trend since November 2022. Conclusion: UnitedHealth Group's fourth-quarter earnings report has sparked a nuanced conversation among investors. While the company exceeded EPS and revenue expectations, concerns over the rising medical cost ratio and its impact on future pricing strategies have raised eyebrows. As UNH navigates these challenges, investors will closely monitor how the healthcare giant adapts its business model to maintain profitability in an evolving healthcare landscape.
NYSE:UNH
by DEXWireNews
The Healthcare Sector Index $XLV - Worth Watching SPDR Select Sector Fund – Healthcare Index AMEX:XLV The chart speaks for itself, we have our breakout levels and our break down levels. We enter on a breakout and set a stop 5% under that support and we exit and or short if we fall under the two underside support levels. Below I outline some reasons why the healthcare sector is worth paying attention too. The healthcare industry is worth $808 billion in the United States as of 2021. 65% of the industry’s revenue comes from patient care. The global healthcare industry is worth $12 trillion. In the U.S National health expenditures are projected to grow 5.4 percent, on average, over the course of 2023–31 and to account for roughly 20 percent of the economy by the end of that period. The insured share of the population is anticipated to exceed 92 percent through 2023 (figures pending), in part as a result of record-high Medicaid enrolment, and then decline toward 90 percent as coverage requirements related to the COVID-19 public health emergency expire. The growth of the health-care sector is evident in employment data as well. In 1990, about 8 million Americans worked in health care; that figure has since doubled to 16 million. That’s the largest single employment segment in our economy. In addition to the above, the west in general is an aging populace that is living longer. We will need these services more than we need staples during a recession. I believe this index can help us gauge the healthcare sector and what direction it will go next. We can watch the levels outlines and make a play if we wish. We have a hard upper boundary and lower boundary on a parallel channel on the chart. You know what to do when we breach any of these levels. Outlined on the chart XLV fund provides exposure to companies in pharmaceuticals, health care equipment and supplies, health care providers and services, biotechnology, life sciences tools and services, and health care technology industries. XLV is the oldest in the segment, as such it is used widely for strategic or tactical positions. Since XLV is both cap weighted and fishes only from the S&P 500, it tilts heavily toward mega-caps. For focused exposure to leading health care names, XLV is tough to beat. Top Five Holdings UnitedHealth Group Inc NYSE:UNH 9.63% Eli Lilly and Co NYSE:LLY 9.19% Johnson & Johnson NYSE:JNJ 7.46% Merck & Co NYSE:MRK 5.46% AbbVie Inc 5.41% Stay Healthy and Nimble Folks PUKA
AMEX:XLV
by PukaCharts