Elevance Health, Inc., together with its subsidiaries, operates as a health benefits company in the United States. The company operates through four segments: Health Benefits, CarelonRx, Carelon Services, and Corporate & Other. It offers a variety of health plans and services to program members; health products; an array of fee-based administrative managed care services; and specialty and other insurance products and services, such as stop loss, dental, vision, life, disability, and supplemental health insurance benefits. The company operates in the pharmacy services business; and markets and offers pharmacy services, including pharmacy benefit management, as well as home delivery and specialty pharmacies, claims adjudication, formulary management, pharmacy networks, rebate administration, a prescription drug database, and member services. In addition, it provides healthcare-related services and capabilities, including utilization management, behavioral health, integrated care delivery, palliative care, payment integrity services, subrogation services, and health and wellness programs, as well as services related to data management, information technology, and business operations. Further, the company is involved in the National Government Services business. The company provides its services under the Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield, Wellpoint, and Carelon brand names. The company was formerly known as Anthem, Inc. and changed its name to Elevance Health, Inc. in June 2022. Elevance Health, Inc. was incorporated in 2001 and is headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Elevance Health, Inc.

Сильный индекс, значительно упал. Быки в растерянности.

Strong index, significantly down. The bulls are confused.

Средний индекс, значительно упал. Рынок не поддерживает быков.

Medium index, significantly down. The market does not support the bulls.

Слабый индекс, незначительно упал

Looking at the universe of stocks we cover at Dividend Channel, on 6/10/26, Elevance Health Inc (Symbol: ELV) will trade ex-dividend, for its quarterly dividend of $1.72, payable on 6/25/26. As a percentage of ELV's recent stock price of $413.07, this dividend works out to approximately 0.42%.
In general, dividends are not always predictable; but looking at the history above can help in judging whether the most recent dividend from ELV is likely to continue, and whether the current estimated yield of 1.67% on annualized basis is a reasonable expectation of annual yield going forward. The chart below shows the one year performance of ELV shares, versus its 200 day moving average:
Looking at the chart above, ELV's low point in its 52 week range is $273.71 per share, with $416.56 as the 52 week high point — that compares with a last trade of $414.67.
According to the ETF Finder at ETF Channel, ELV makes up 5.45% of the iShares U.S. Healthcare Providers ETF (Symbol: IHF) which is trading lower by about 0.5% on the day Monday. (see other ETFs holding ELV).
In Monday trading, Elevance Health Inc shares are currently off about 0.6% on the day.
Click here to learn which 25 S.A.F.E. dividend stocks should be on your radar screen »
Further ELV Research:
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

ELV Ex-Dividend Reminder - 6/10/26

Shares of UnitedHealth Group Incorporated UNH have gained 20.1% year to date, beating the industry’s 13.8% gain and the S&P 500’s 10.2% rise. The rebound is notable given the challenges hanging over the company. Regulatory investigations, policy uncertainty, elevated healthcare costs and higher utilization continue to create pressure. Yet investors appear increasingly focused on execution rather than headlines. Since Stephen J. Hemsley returned as CEO, the company has worked toward delivering a steadier operating performance, helping restore confidence in the turnaround story.
Among major peers, Elevance Health, Inc. ELV is up 16.8%, while Humana Inc. HUM has surged 36.6%.
YTD Price Performance – UNH, ELV, HUM, Industry & S&P 500
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Early Signs of Improvement
A key piece of the investment case remains Optum Health’s value-based care expansion. If the company can improve care coordination and manage patient outcomes more effectively, it could reduce utilization and strengthen profitability over time.
Recent results suggest some progress is already taking shape. In the first quarter of 2026, the adjusted medical care ratio improved 90 basis points year over year to 83.9%. That improvement points to better cost management and favorable reserve development, offering tangible evidence that margins are beginning to recover. Premium revenues increased to $87.6 billion from $86.5 billion in the prior-year quarter, showing that UnitedHealth continues to maintain pricing discipline despite a competitive environment.
Medicare Advantage and Medicaid membership are declining, which is not ideal considering the importance of government-sponsored programs to the company’s scale. However, commercial fee-based membership increased 3.5% year over year in the first quarter, highlighting continued demand from employer-sponsored plans and helping offset some of the pressure elsewhere.
Wall Street has also remained constructive. Several analysts have raised price targets and upgraded ratings in recent times. Even after the stock’s rally, shares remain below the average analyst price target of $403.92, implying roughly 7.1% upside. At the same time, the wide target range of $287 to $492 shows that opinions remain sharply divided on the company’s risk profile.
Earnings Expectations Are Moving Higher
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2026 EPS is pegged at $18.29, indicating 11.9% year-over-year growth. The earnings estimate has seen three upward revisions over the past month against no downward movement. The consensus estimate for revenues is pegged at $443.69 billion, implying a 0.9% decline from a year ago.
For 2027, EPS is projected to grow to $20.73, marking a 13.4% improvement. It has seen four upward estimate revisions in the past month, against no downward movements. Revenues are pegged at $454.93 billion, indicating 2.5% growth from a year ago.
Over the past four quarters, the company beat estimates three times and missed once, with an average earnings surprise of 0.8%.
UnitedHealth Group Incorporated Price, Consensus and EPS Surprise
Valuation Not Cheap
The rally has pushed valuation above historical levels. UnitedHealth currently trades at a forward price-to-earnings ratio of 20.51X. That sits above its five-year median multiple of 19.20X and comfortably above the industry average of 16.64X, suggesting investors are already pricing in a meaningful recovery. For comparison, Elevance trades at 14.77X forward earnings, while Humana trades at 30.34X.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
The Risks Haven’t Disappeared
Despite the improving outlook, investors still face several important risks.
Regulatory scrutiny remains the largest overhang. The Department of Justice continues to investigate UnitedHealth’s Medicare billing practices, including Medicare Advantage diagnosis coding. Authorities are also reviewing physician reimbursement practices and certain operations within Optum Rx’s pharmacy benefit management business. These investigations could eventually lead to penalties, operational changes or higher compliance costs.
On the other hand, the company is attempting to reshape the PBM model through a transparent, fee-based pharmacy care approach that moves away from pricing tied to drug list prices and prescription volume. If successful, the initiative could become a meaningful competitive advantage.
Questions surrounding the 2024 Change Healthcare cyberattack have not fully faded either, particularly regarding the handling of emergency financial assistance provided to organizations affected by the disruption.
Another headline that drew attention was Berkshire Hathaway’s decision to exit its position. Under new CEO Greg Abel, Berkshire reported no UnitedHealth holdings as of March 31, 2026. The move surprised some investors because Berkshire had disclosed ownership of more than 5 million shares less than a year earlier. Still, many market participants viewed the sale as portfolio rebalancing rather than a direct judgment on UnitedHealth’s long-term prospects.
While management continues to expect overall medical membership to decline in 2026, previously forecasting a range of 46.945 million to 47.495 million members compared with nearly 49.760 million in 2025, growth in commercial membership should help offset part of that decline. But the transition bears watching.
The Long-Term Story Still Matters
UnitedHealth's scale, diversified business model and extensive healthcare data capabilities create advantages that few competitors can replicate. The company also continues to benefit from powerful industry tailwinds, including an aging population, rising rates of chronic disease and growing healthcare demand.
Shareholder returns add another layer of support. UnitedHealth returned more than $13 billion through dividends and share repurchases during 2025. In the first quarter of 2026 alone, it paid roughly $2 billion in dividends and plans to repurchase at least $2 billion of stock by the end of the second quarter. As of March 31, 2026, authorization remained to buy back up to 19.3 million shares. The company also recently increased its quarterly dividend by 5%, raising the payout from $2.21 per share to $2.32.
Conclusion
UnitedHealth's turnaround efforts are beginning to show results, with improving medical cost trends and rising earnings expectations supporting investor confidence. Continued shareholder returns point to a business that is moving in the right direction. The company’s unmatched scale, diversified healthcare platform and long-term exposure to favorable industry trends remain key strengths.
However, the stock's recovery has already pushed valuation above historical levels, leaving less room for error. At the same time, ongoing DoJ investigations, membership declines in government programs, and lingering fallout from the cyberattack continue to create uncertainty. As such, investors may want to wait for additional evidence of sustained margin improvement and membership stabilization before committing. UnitedHealth currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

UnitedHealth Stock Jumps 20% YTD: Should Investors Jump in Too?

The S&P 500 Index ($SPX) (SPY) on Thursday closed up +0.41%, the Dow Jones Industrial Average ($DOWI) (DIA) closed up +1.73%, and the Nasdaq 100 Index ($IUXX) (QQQ) closed down -0.53%. June E-mini S&P futures (ESM26) rose +0.36%, and June E-mini Nasdaq futures (NQM26) fell -0.47%.
Stock indexes settled mixed on Thursday, with the Dow Jones industrials posting a new all-time high. The overall market shook off early weakness on Thursday and pushed higher as a -3% plunge in crude oil prices knocked T-note yields lower, with the 10-year T-note yield falling -2 bp to 4.47%. Also, the rally in bank stocks and managed healthcare companies lifted the broader market, pushing the Dow Jones Industrial Average to a new record high.
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The weakness in technology stocks on Thursday weighed on the broader market, keeping the Nasdaq 100 in negative territory. Broadcom fell more than -12% to lead chipmakers lower after its forecast for artificial-intelligence revenue in the current quarter fell short of expectations. Also, CrowdStrike Holdings closed down more than -3% to lead cybersecurity stocks lower, despite reporting better-than-expected Q1 earnings, as the report wasn’t strong enough to lift the stock, which has more than doubled from a March low.
Weaker crude oil prices are a positive factor for stocks and bonds, as WTI crude oil fell more than -3% on Thursday after the US late Wednesday said Israel and Lebanon agreed to a ceasefire if Hezbollah also stops fighting and withdraws militants from areas near the border with Israel. Iran insists a peace deal with the US requires a ceasefire in Lebanon. The agreement would require the Lebanese army to take over after the withdrawal of Israeli troops. However, Hezbollah militants said they refused to abide by the conditions of the ceasefire announced by the US State Department, and clashes continued in southern Lebanon. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said that “Communications between Iran and the US have not been cut off, but no tangible progress has been achieved in the negotiating process.”
Thursday’s US economic news was mixed for stocks after weekly jobless claims rose more than expected to a 3.75-month high and Q1 nonfarm productivity was revised lower. Conversely, Q1 unit labor costs were unexpectedly revised lower, easing concerns over wage pressures.
US weekly initial unemployment claims rose +13,000 to a 3.75-month high of 225,000, showing a weaker labor market than expectations of 215,000.
US Q1 nonfarm productivity was revised downward to 0.3% from the previously reported 0.8%, weaker than expectations of 0.4%. Q1 unit labor costs were unexpectedly revised downward to 1.8% from 2.3%, weaker than expectations of an upward revision to 2.4%.
The markets are discounting a 2% chance of a +25 bp rate hike at the next FOMC meeting on June 16-17.
The generally favorable Q1 earnings season is winding down. As of Thursday, 83% of the 494 S&P 500 companies that reported Q1 earnings have beaten estimates. Q1 S&P 500 earnings are projected to climb +12% y/y, according to Bloomberg Intelligence. Stripping out the technology sector, Q1 earnings are projected to increase around +3%, the weakest in two years.
Overseas stock markets settled mixed on Thursday. The Euro Stoxx 50 closed up +0.82%. China's Shanghai Composite closed down -0.64%. Japan's Nikkei Stock Average closed down -1.36%.
Interest Rates
September 10-year T-notes (ZNU6) on Thursday closed up +4.5 ticks, and the 10-year T-note yield fell -2.4 bp to 4.471%. T-note prices moved higher on Thursday, supported by a -3% decline in WTI crude oil prices, which has lowered inflation expectations. The 10-year breakeven inflation rate fell to a 6-week low of 2.365% on Thursday. Fed-friendly US economic news was also positive for T-notes, following weekly jobless claims that rose more than expected and Q1 unit labor costs that were unexpectedly revised lower. T-notes fell back from their best level as stocks rebounded, dampening safe-haven demand for government debt securities.
European government bond yields moved lower on Thursday. The 10-year German Bund yield fell from a 1.5-week high of 3.043% and finished down -1.3 bp to 3.023%. The 10-year UK gilt yield fell -3.3 bp to 4.898%.
Eurozone Apr retail sales fell -0.4% m/m, weaker than expectations of -0.3% m/m.
Swaps are discounting a 98% chance of a +25 bp ECB rate hike at its next policy meeting on June 11.
US Stock Movers
Humana (HUM) closed up more than +6% to lead managed healthcare stocks higher and gainers in the S&P 500 after Morgan Stanley raised its price target on the stock to $240 from $217. Also, Centene (CNC) closed up more than +5%, and UnitedHealth Group (UNH) closed up more than +5% to lead gainers in the Dow Jones Industrials after Bank of America Global Research upgraded the stock to buy from neutral with a price target of $450. In addition, Elevance Health (ELV) and Molina Healthcare(MOH) closed up more than +4%, and Cigna Group (CI) and CVS Health (CVS) closed up more than +3%. Finally, Cardinal Health (CAH) closed up more than +2%.
Asset managers and bank stocks rallied on Thursday, lifting the broader market. Blackstone (BX) closed up more than +7% to lead gainers in the S&P 500, and Franklin Resources (BEN) closed up more than +5%. Also, Goldman Sachs (GS), Fifth Third Bank (FITB), and US Bancorp (USB) closed up more than +4%. In addition, JPMorgan Chase (JPM), Morgan Stanley (MS), Citigroup (C), Wells Fargo (WFC), Citizens Financial Group (CFG), M&T Bank (MTB), and BlackRock (BLK) closed up more than +3%.
Chipmakers and AI-infrastructure stocks retreated on Thursday, led by a -12% plunge in Broadcom (AVGO), the largest decliner in the Nasdaq 100, after giving an outlook that was seen as underwhelming, given the industry’s AI-related demand. Also, Micron Technology (MU) closed down more than -7%, and ARM Holdings Plc (ARM) closed down more than -4%. In addition, Advanced Micro Devices (AMD), Qualcomm (QCOM), Sandisk (SNDK), and Western Digital (WDC) closed down more than -3%, and Lam Research (LRCX) and Analog Devices (ADI) closed down more than -2%.
Medtronic Plc (MDT) closed up more than +5% after BTIG LLC upgraded the stock to buy from neutral with a price target of $90.
RTX Corp (RTX) closed up +4% after Jeffries upgraded the stock to buy from hold with a price target of $220.
Alnylam Pharmaceuticals (ALNY) closed up more than +3% to lead gainers in the Nasdaq 100 after entering into a strategic AI collaboration with Inceptive Nucleics valued at up to $2 billion to accelerate the discovery and design of RNAi therapeutics.
Brown-Forman (BF.B) closed up more than +2% after reporting Q4 gross margin of 62.6%, stronger than the consensus of 57.5%.
Zoetis (ZTS) closed up more than +2% after KeyBanc Capital Markets said the cattle screwworm parasite could be a potential catalyst for the company’s livestock portfolios, as it has approved medications to prevent and treat the parasite in livestock.
PVH Corp (PVH) closed down more than -20% after forecasting 2027 adjusted EPS of $11.80 to $12.10, weaker than the consensus of $12.24.
Ciena Corp (CIEN) closed down more than -13% to lead losers in the S&P 500 despite reporting better-than-expected Q2 earnings, as Bloomberg Intelligence said the company’s full-year sales outlook may be viewed as underwhelming amid heightened expectations.
Five Below (FIVE) closed down more than -13% despite reporting stronger-than-expected Q1 earnings results, as Jeffries said the company’s growth rate might be peaking.
CrowdStrike Holdings (CRWD) closed down more than -3% after its Q1 earnings beat wasn’t strong enough to lift the stock, which has more than doubled from a March low.
AT&T (T) closed down more than -3% and Verizon Communications (VZ) closed down more than -3% to lead losers in the Dow Jones Industrials after the US Supreme Court ruled that telecommunications companies can’t immediately demand a jury trial when hit with a Federal Communications Commission fine.
Earnings Reports(6/5/2026)
ABM Industries Inc (ABM), G-III Apparel Group Ltd (GIII), Lifezone Metals Ltd (LZM).
On the date of publication, Rich Asplund did not have (either directly or indirectly) positions in any of the securities mentioned in this article. All information and data in this article is solely for informational purposes. For more information please view the Barchart Disclosure Policy here.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Stocks Rebound on Strength in Banks and Managed Healthcare

The S&P 500 Index ($SPX) (SPY) today is up +0.02%, the Dow Jones Industrial Average ($DOWI) (DIA) is up +1.49%, and the Nasdaq 100 Index ($IUXX) (QQQ) is down -0.90%. June E-mini S&P futures (ESM26) are up +0.02%, and June E-mini Nasdaq futures (NQM26) are down -0.86%.
Stock indexes are mixed today, with the Dow Jones industrials posting a new all-time high. The broader market is under pressure today amid weakness in technology stocks. Broadcom is down more than -14% to lead chipmakers lower after its forecast for artificial-intelligence revenue in the current quarter fell short of expectations. Also, CrowdStrike Holdings is down more than -8% to lead cybersecurity stocks lower, despite reporting better-than-expected Q1 earnings, as the report wasn’t strong enough to lift the stock, which has more than doubled from a March low. However, the strength in managed healthcare stocks today is limiting overall market losses and helping push the Dow Jones Industrial Average to a new record high.
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Weaker crude oil prices are a positive factor for stocks and bonds, with WTI crude oil down more than -3% today after the US late Wednesday said Israel and Lebanon agreed to a ceasefire if Hezbollah also stops fighting and withdraws militants from areas near the border with Israel. The agreement would require the Lebanese army to take over after the withdrawal of Israeli troops. Iran insists a deal with the US requires a ceasefire in Lebanon. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said that “Communications between Iran and the US have not been cut off, but no tangible progress has been achieved in the negotiating process.”
Today’s US economic news was mixed for stocks after weekly jobless claims rose more than expected to a 3.75-month high and Q1 nonfarm productivity was revised lower. Conversely, Q1 unit labor costs were unexpectedly revised lower, easing concerns over wage pressures.
US weekly initial unemployment claims rose +13,000 to a 3.75-month high of 225,000, showing a weaker labor market than expectations of 215,000.
US Q1 nonfarm productivity was revised downward to 0.3% from the previously reported 0.8%, weaker than expectations of 0.4%. Q1 unit labor costs were unexpectedly revised downward to 1.8% from 2.3%, weaker than expectations of an upward revision to 2.4%.
The markets are discounting a 2% chance of a +25 bp rate hike at the next FOMC meeting on June 16-17.
The generally favorable Q1 earnings season is winding down. As of today, 84% of the 485 S&P 500 companies that reported Q1 earnings have beaten estimates. Q1 S&P 500 earnings are projected to climb +12% y/y, according to Bloomberg Intelligence. Stripping out the technology sector, Q1 earnings are projected to increase around +3%, the weakest in two years.
Overseas stock markets are mixed today. The Euro Stoxx 50 is up +0.51%. China's Shanghai Composite closed down -0.64%. Japan's Nikkei Stock Average closed down -1.36%.
Interest Rates
September 10-year T-notes (ZNU6) today are up +8 ticks, and the 10-year T-note yield is down -3.6 bp to 4.459%. T-note prices are moving higher today, supported by a -2% decline in WTI crude oil prices, which has lowered inflation expectations. The 10-year breakeven inflation rate fell to a 6-week low of 2.366% today. Fed-friendly US economic news was also positive for T-notes, following weekly jobless claims that rose more than expected and Q1 unit labor costs that were unexpectedly revised lower.
European government bond yields are moving lower today. The 10-year German Bund yield fell from a 1.5-week high of 3.043% and is down -1.5 bp to 3.021%. The 10-year UK gilt yield is down -2.7 bp to 4.904%.
Eurozone Apr retail sales fell -0.4% m/m, weaker than expectations of -0.3% m/m.
Swaps are discounting a 98% chance of a +25 bp ECB rate hike at its next policy meeting on June 11.
US Stock Movers
Chipmakers and AI-infrastructure stocks are slumping today, led by a -14% plunge in Broadcom (AVGO), the largest decliner in the Nasdaq 100, after giving an outlook that was seen as underwhelming, given the industry’s AI-related demand. Also, Micron Technology (MU) is down more than -8%, and ARM Holdings Plc (ARM) is down more than -5%. In addition, Advanced Micro Devices (AMD), Qualcomm (QCOM), Sandisk (SNDK), and Lam Research (LRCX) are down more than -3%. Finally, Western Digital (WDC), Seagate Technology Holdings Plc (STX), Analog Devices (ADI), KLA Corp (KLAC), and Intel (INTC) are down more than -2%.
Cryptocurrency-exposed stocks are falling today, with Bitcoin (^BTCUSD) down more than -1% at a 3.75-month low. Galaxy Digital Holdings (GLXY) is down more than -5%, MARA Holdings (MARA) is down more than -4%, and Riot Platforms (RIOT) is down more than -3%. Also, Coinbase Global (COIN) is down -0.28%.
Humana (HUM) is up more than +7% to lead managed healthcare stocks higher and gainers in the S&P 500 after Morgan Stanley raised its price target on the stock to $240 from $217. Also, Centene (CNC) is up more than +6%, and UnitedHealth Group (UNH) is up more than +5% to lead gainers in the Dow Jones Industrials after Bank of America Global Research upgraded the stock to buy from neutral with a price target of $450. In addition, Elevance Health (ELV), Cigna Group (CI), and Molina Healthcare(MOH) are up more than +4%, and CVS Health (CVS) and Cardinal Health (CAH) are up more than +2%.
PVH Corp (PVH) is down more than -24% after forecasting 2027 adjusted EPS of $11.80 to $12.10, weaker than the consensus of $12.24.
Ciena Corp (CIEN) is down more than -18% to lead losers in the S&P 500 despite reporting better-than-expected Q2 earnings, as Bloomberg Intelligence said the company’s full-year sales outlook may be viewed as underwhelming amid heightened expectations.
Five Below (FIVE) is down more than -13% despite reporting stronger-than-expected Q1 earnings results, as Jeffries said the company’s growth rate might be peaking.
CrowdStrike Holdings (CRWD) is down more than -7% after its Q1 earnings beat wasn’t strong enough to lift the stock, which has more than doubled from a March low.
Alnylam Pharmaceuticals (ALNY) is up more than +5% to lead gainers in the Nasdaq 100 after entering into a strategic AI collaboration with Inceptive Nucleics valued at up to $2 billion to accelerate the discovery and design of RNAi therapeutics.
Medtronic Plc (MDT) is up more than +4% after BTIG LLC upgraded the stock to buy from neutral with a price target of $90.
Zoetis (ZTS) is up more than +4% after KeyBanc Capital Markets said the cattle screwworm parasite could be a potential catalyst for the company’s livestock portfolios, as it has approved medications to prevent and treat the parasite in livestock.
RTX Corp (RTX) is up more than +3% after Jeffries upgraded the stock to buy from hold with a price target of $220.
Brown-Forman (BF.B) is up more than +1% after reporting Q4 gross margin of 62.6%, stronger than the consensus of 57.5%.
Earnings Reports(6/4/2026)
Brown-Forman Corp (BF/B), Ciena Corp (CIEN), Cooper Cos Inc/The (COO), Docusign Inc (DOCU), Guidewire Software Inc (GWRE), Lululemon Athletica Inc (LULU), Rubrik Inc (RBRK), Samsara Inc (IOT), Toro Co/The (TTC).
On the date of publication, Rich Asplund did not have (either directly or indirectly) positions in any of the securities mentioned in this article. All information and data in this article is solely for informational purposes. For more information please view the Barchart Disclosure Policy here.
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Stocks Mixed as Tech Weakness Weighs

UnitedHealth Group Incorporated UNH recently announced an increase in its dividend payout, with its board approving a 5% hike in the quarterly cash dividend, raising it from $2.21 per share to $2.32. The dividend will be paid out on June 23, 2026, to its shareholders of record as of June 17. However, this marks the lowest hike in this decade, for obvious reasons.
Nevertheless, its dividend yield, based on the latest payout and the June 3, 2026, closing price, is 2.46%. The figure is higher than the industry average of 2.05%, the medical sector’s 1.59%, as well as the S&P 500’s level of 1%. UnitedHealth’s dividend history shows continuous hikes per annum since 2010.
UNH's robust balance sheet, along with steady cash flow from operations over the years, underpins its initiatives to enhance shareholder value. At the end of the first quarter of 2026, the company's total debt-to-total capital ratio was 40.75%, which is better than the industry's average of 42.86%.
In the first quarter of 2026, cash flows from operations were $8.9 billion, which grew 63.3% year over year. This growth highlights the strength of its profitable operations.
UNH rewarded more than $13 billion to its shareholders in the form of share repurchases and dividends during 2025. In the first quarter of 2026 alone, it paid dividends worth $2 billion. The company plans to repurchase at least $2 billion of common stock by the end of the second quarter of 2026. As of March 31, 2026, it had buyback authorization of up to 19.3 million shares left.
Peers Boosting Shareholder Value Too
UnitedHealth’s peers, including Humana Inc. HUM and Elevance Health, Inc. ELV, are also taking measures to increase shareholder value.
Humana bought back shares worth $151 million in 2025 and $107 million in the first quarter of 2026. It had a leftover share repurchase capacity of $2.7 billion as of April 28, 2026. It also paid a dividend of $107 million in the first quarter of 2026. Meanwhile, Elevance Health bought back shares worth $2.6 billion in 2025 and $1.1 billion in the first quarter of 2026. ELV has around $5.6 billion remaining under its share buyback authorization as of March 31, 2026. It also paid dividends worth $376 million in the last reported quarter.
UnitedHealth’s Price Performance, Valuation and Estimates
Shares of UNH have gained 14.2% in the year-to-date period compared with the industry’s growth of 13.8%.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
From a valuation standpoint, UnitedHealth trades at a forward price-to-earnings ratio of 19.51, up from the industry average of 16.64. UNH carries a Value Score of B.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for UnitedHealth’s 2026 earnings is pegged at $18.29 per share, implying an 11.9% improvement from the year-ago period.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
The stock currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
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Elevance Health, Inc. (ELV) : Free Stock Analysis Report
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

UnitedHealth Prescribes Another Dividend Increase: Just a Lighter Dose

The S&P 500 Index ($SPX) (SPY) today is down -0.16%, the Dow Jones Industrial Average ($DOWI) (DIA) is up +1.41%, and the Nasdaq 100 Index ($IUXX) (QQQ) is down -1.23%. June E-mini S&P futures (ESM26) are down -0.14%, and June E-mini Nasdaq futures (NQM26) are down -1.16%.
Stock indexes are mixed today, with the Dow Jones industrials posting a new all-time high. The broader market is under pressure today amid weakness in technology stocks. Broadcom is down more than -15% to lead chipmakers lower after its forecast for artificial-intelligence revenue in the current quarter fell short of expectations. Also, CrowdStrike Holdings is down more than 6% to lead cybersecurity stocks lower, despite reporting better-than-expected Q1 earnings, as the report wasn’t strong enough to lift the stock, which has more than doubled from a March low. Strength in managed healthcare stocks today is helping push the Dow Jones Industrial Average to a record high.
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Weaker crude oil prices are a positive factor for stocks and bonds, with WTI crude oil down more than -3% today after the US late Wednesday said Israel and Lebanon agreed to a ceasefire if Hezbollah also stops fighting and withdraws militants from areas near the border with Israel. The agreement would require the Lebanese army to take over after the withdrawal of Israeli troops. Iran insists a deal with the US requires a ceasefire in Lebanon. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said that “Communications between Iran and the US have not been cut off, but no tangible progress has been achieved in the negotiating process.”
Today’s US economic news was mixed for stocks after weekly jobless claims rose more than expected to a 3.75-month high and Q1 nonfarm productivity was revised lower. Conversely, Q1 unit labor costs were unexpectedly revised lower, easing concerns over wage pressures.
US weekly initial unemployment claims rose +13,000 to a 3.75-month high of 225,000, showing a weaker labor market than expectations of 215,000.
US Q1 nonfarm productivity was revised downward to 0.3% from the previously reported 0.8%, weaker than expectations of 0.4%. Q1 unit labor costs were unexpectedly revised downward to 1.8% from 2.3%, weaker than expectations of an upward revision to 2.4%.
The markets are discounting a 2% chance of a +25 bp rate hike at the next FOMC meeting on June 16-17.
The generally favorable Q1 earnings season is winding down. As of today, 84% of the 485 S&P 500 companies that reported Q1 earnings have beaten estimates. Q1 S&P 500 earnings are projected to climb +12% y/y, according to Bloomberg Intelligence. Stripping out the technology sector, Q1 earnings are projected to increase around +3%, the weakest in two years.
Overseas stock markets are mixed today. The Euro Stoxx 50 is up +0.51%. China's Shanghai Composite closed down -0.64%. Japan's Nikkei Stock Average closed down -1.36%.
Interest Rates
September 10-year T-notes (ZNU6) today are up +8 ticks, and the 10-year T-note yield is down -3.6 bp to 4.459%. T-note prices are moving higher today, supported by a -2% decline in WTI crude oil prices, which has lowered inflation expectations. The 10-year breakeven inflation rate fell to a 6-week low of 2.366% today. Fed-friendly US economic news was also positive for T-notes, following weekly jobless claims that rose more than expected and Q1 unit labor costs that were unexpectedly revised lower.
European government bond yields are moving lower today. The 10-year German Bund yield fell from a 1.5-week high of 3.043% and is down -1.5 bp to 3.021%. The 10-year UK gilt yield is down -2.7 bp to 4.904%.
Eurozone Apr retail sales fell -0.4% m/m, weaker than expectations of -0.3% m/m.
Swaps are discounting a 98% chance of a +25 bp ECB rate hike at its next policy meeting on June 11.
US Stock Movers
Chipmakers and AI-infrastructure stocks are slumping today, led by a -15% plunge in Broadcom (AVGO), the largest decliner in the Nasdaq 100, after giving an outlook that was seen as underwhelming, given the industry’s AI-related demand. Also, Micron Technology (MU), ARM Holdings Plc (ARM), and Marvell Technology (MRVL) are down more than -5%, and Applied Materials (AMAT) and Lam Research (LRCX) are down more than -3%. In addition, KLA Corp (KLAC), Intel (INTC), Qualcomm (QCOM), Analog Devices (ADI), and ASML Holding NV (ASML) are down more than -2%.
Cybersecurity stocks are retreating for a second day today, led by an -8% decline in CrowdStrike Holdings (CRWD) after its Q1 earnings beat wasn’t strong enough to lift the stock that has more than doubled from a March low. Also, Palo Alto Networks (PANW) and Cloudflare (NET) are down more than -2%, and Okta (OKTA) is down -0.83%.
Cryptocurrency-exposed stocks are falling today, with Bitcoin (^BTCUSD) down more than -1% at a 3.75-month low. Galaxy Digital Holdings (GLXY) is down more than -4%, and MARA Holdings (MARA) and Riot Platforms (RIOT) are down more than -3%. Also, Coinbase Global (COIN) is down -0.44%.
UnitedHealth Group (UNH) is up more than +6% to health insurance stocks higher and lead gainers in the S&P 500 and Dow Jones Industrials after Bank of America Global Research upgraded the stock to buy from neutral with a price target of $450. Also, Humana (HUM) is up more than +5%, and Centene (CNC) and Elevance Health (ELV) are up more than +4%. In addition, Cigna Group (CI) and CVS Health (CVS) are up more than +3%, and Cardinal Health (CAH) is up more than +2%.
PVH Corp (PVH) is down more than -27% after forecasting 2027 adjusted EPS of $11.80 to $12.10, weaker than the consensus of $12.24.
Ciena Corp (CIEN) is down more than -19% to lead losers in the S&P 500 despite reporting better-than-expected Q2 earnings, as Bloomberg Intelligence said the company’s full-year sales outlook may be viewed as underwhelming amid heightened expectations.
Five Below (FIVE) is down more than -10% despite reporting stronger-than-expected Q1 earnings results, as Jeffries said the company’s growth rate might be peaking.
Brown-Forman (BF.B) is up more than +4% after reporting Q4 gross margin of 62.6%, stronger than the consensus of 57.5%.
Medtronic Plc (MDT) is up more than +4% after BTIG LLC upgraded the stock to buy from neutral with a price target of $90.
RTX Corp (RTX) is up more than +3% after Jeffries upgraded the stock to buy from hold with a price target of $220.
Alnylam Pharmaceuticals (ALNY) is up more than +2% after entering into a strategic AI collaboration with Inceptive Nucleics valued at up to $2 billion to accelerate the discovery and design of RNAi therapeutics.
Earnings Reports(6/4/2026)
Brown-Forman Corp (BF/B), Ciena Corp (CIEN), Cooper Cos Inc/The (COO), Docusign Inc (DOCU), Guidewire Software Inc (GWRE), Lululemon Athletica Inc (LULU), Rubrik Inc (RBRK), Samsara Inc (IOT), Toro Co/The (TTC).
On the date of publication, Rich Asplund did not have (either directly or indirectly) positions in any of the securities mentioned in this article. All information and data in this article is solely for informational purposes. For more information please view the Barchart Disclosure Policy here.
More news from Barchart
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Weakness in Technology Stocks Pressures Stock Indexes

The S&P 500 Index ($SPX) (SPY) on Tuesday closed up +0.61%, the Dow Jones Industrial Average ($DOWI) (DIA) closed down -0.23%, and the Nasdaq 100 Index ($IUXX) (QQQ) closed up +1.76%. June E-mini S&P futures (ESM26) rose +0.61%, and June E-mini Nasdaq futures (NQM26) rose +1.72%.
Stock indexes settled mostly higher on Tuesday, with the S&P 500 and Nasdaq 100 posting new all-time highs. Stocks found support as a drop in crude oil prices and bond yields fueled a rally in technology stocks after officials signaled the US was nearing a deal with Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and restore oil flows. According to the Washington Post, the US and Iran have developed a memorandum that would extend the ceasefire by 60 days as the two sides seek a permanent deal, and if agreed, the Strait of Hormuz would be de-mined and reopened in the meantime. Secretary of State Rubio said negotiations will still "take a few days" as both sides discuss language in an initial document. WTI crude oil fell to a 2.5-week low on Tuesday, and the 10-year T-note yield fell to a 1.5-week low of 4.47%.
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However, stock index futures were undercut after the US Central Command said US forces struck Iranian missile-launch sites and boats trying to place mines in the Strait of Hormuz. Also, weakness in health insurance stocks and energy producers on Tuesday knocked the Dow Jones Industrial Average into negative territory.
Tuesday’s US economic news was mixed for stocks. The Apr Chicago Fed National Activity Index rose +0.29 to a 13-month high of 0.14, stronger than expectations of -0.03. Also, the Mar S&P Composite-20 home price index rose +0.83% y/y, a smaller increase than the +0.90% y/y expected and the smallest year-on-year gain in more than 2.5 years. In addition, the Conference Board US May consumer confidence index fell -0.7 to 93.1, a smaller decline than expectations of 92.0.
WTI crude oil prices (CLM26) remain extremely volatile and are susceptible to headlines from the Iran war. Crude oil prices fell more than -2% on Tuesday to a 2.5-week low after the US and Iran said peace talks were progressing. However, crude prices rebounded from their worst levels after US and Israeli jets struck missile sites in Iran and boats laying mines in the Strait of Hormuz.
The International Energy Agency (IEA) said in a recently released monthly report that global oil inventories declined at a rate of about 4 million bpd in March and April, and the market will remain “severely undersupplied” until October even if the conflict ends next month. Goldman Sachs estimates that the current disruption has drawn down nearly 500 million bbl from global crude stockpiles, with the drawdown potentially reaching 1 billion bbl by June.
The markets are discounting a 3% chance of a -25 bp FOMC rate cut at the next FOMC meeting on June 16-17.
Earnings season is winding down, and reports thus far have been supportive of stocks. As of Tuesday, 83% of the 475 S&P 500 companies that reported Q1 earnings have beaten estimates. Q1 S&P 500 earnings are projected to climb +12% y/y, according to Bloomberg Intelligence. Stripping out the technology sector, Q1 earnings are projected to increase around +3%, the weakest in two years.
Overseas stock markets settled lower on Tuesday. The Euro Stoxx 50 closed down -1.18%. China's Shanghai Composite closed down -0.17%. Japan's Nikkei Stock Average closed down -0.25%.
Interest Rates
June 10-year T-notes (ZNM6) on Tuesday closed up by +18.5 ticks. The 10-year T-note yield fell -6.9 bp to 4.489%. June T-note prices rallied to a 1.5-week high on Tuesday, and the 10-year T-note yield fell to a 1.5-week low of 4.473%. Tuesday’s -2% fall in WTI crude oil prices reduced inflation expectations and is bullish for T-note prices. The 10-year breakeven inflation rate fell to a 1-month low of 2.375% on Tuesday. T-notes maintained their gains on decent demand for the Treasury’s $69 billion auction of 2-year T-notes that has a bid-to-cover ratio of 2.64, better than the 10-auction average of 2.61.
European government bond yields on Tuesday were mixed. The 10-year German Bund yield rose +3.3 bp to 2.979%. The 10-year UK gilt yield fell to a 5-week low of 4.820% and finished down -2.2 bp to 4.875%.
ECB Executive Board member Isabel Schnabel said even if there's a quick resolution to the conflict in the Middle East, "I think a rate hike by the ECB in June will be needed." She added that "given the high persistence of the energy shock, I believe that the negative impact on economic growth will also be stronger" than initially expected.
ECB Chief Economist Philip Lane said the ECB will probably raise its quarterly inflation outlook at next month's policy meeting as the Iran war keeps energy prices elevated.
Swaps are discounting a 91% chance of a +25 bp ECB rate hike at its next policy meeting on June 11.
US Stock Movers
Chipmakers and AI infrastructure stocks rallied on Tuesday, helping lift the broader market. Micron Technology (MCHP) closed up more than +20% to lead gainers in the S&P 500 and Nasdaq 100 after UBS raised its price target on the stock to $1,625 from $535, and ON Semiconductor (ON) closed up more than +10%. Also, Western Digital (WDC) closed up more than +8%, and Sandisk (SNDK) and Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) closed up more than +7%. In addition, Marvell Technology (MRVL) and KLA Corp (KLAC) closed up more than +6%, and Applied Materials (AMAT), Analog Devices (ADI), Microchip Technology (MCHP), NXP Semiconductors NV (NXPI), Lam Research (LRCX), and Texas Instruments (TXN) closed up more than +5%.
Airlines and cruise line operators moved higher on Tuesday after WTI crude oil prices fell to a 2.5-week low, reducing fuel costs and bolstering profitability prospects. American Airlines Group (AAL) closed up more than +7%, and Alaska Air Group (ALK) closed up more than +6%. Also, United Airlines Holdings (UAL) closed up more than +5%, and Delta Air Lines (DAL), Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (NCLH), and Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd (RCL) closed up more than +4%. In addition, Southwest Airlines (LUV) closed up more than +3%, and Carnival (CCL) closed up more than 2%.
Rocket and satellite companies moved sharply higher on Tuesday after SpaceX filed to become the largest-ever initial public offering. Redwire (RDW) closed up more than +26%, Firefly Aerospace (FLY) closed up more than +18%, and AST Spacemobile (ASTS) closed up more than +12%.
Energy producers and energy service providers retreated on Tuesday after WTI crude oil prices slid to a 2.5-week low. Devon Energy (DVN) closed down more than -4%, and Chevron (CVX) closed down more than -3% to lead losers in the Dow Jones industrials. Also, Exxon Mobil (XOM), ConocoPhillips (COP), and APA Corp (APA) closed down more than -3%, and Diamondback Energy (FANG), Marathon Petroleum (MPC), Occidental Petroleum (OXY), Phillips 66 (PSX), and Valero Energy (VLO) closed down more than -2%.
Defensive health insurance stocks were under pressure with Tuesday’s rally in the broader market. Centene (CNC) closed down more than -3%, and UnitedHealth Group (UNH), Humana (HUM), and CVS Health (CVS) closed down more than -2%. Also, Elevance Health (ELV) and Cigna Group (CI) closed down more than -1%.
Allient (ALNT) closed up more than +12% after JPMorgan Chase upgraded the stock to overweight from neutral with a price target of $80.
Autoliv (ALV) closed up more than +3% after Handelsbanken upgraded the stock to buy from hold with a price target of $145.
AutoZone (AZO) closed down more than -8% to lead losers in the S&P 500 after reporting Q3 net sales of $4.84 billion, below the consensus of $4.87 billion. Also, O’Reilly Automotive (ORLY) is down more than -4% to lead losers in the Nasdaq 100.
Intuit (INTU) closed down more than -4% to lead losers in the Nasdaq 100 after Mizuho Securities cut its price target on the stock to $500 from $600.
Earnings Reports(5/27/2026)
Agilent Technologies Inc (A), Bath & Body Works Inc (BBWI), Dick's Sporting Goods Inc (DKS), Everpure Inc (P), HEICO Corp (HEI), HP Inc (HPQ), Marvell Technology Inc (MRVL), nCino Inc (NCNO), Nutanix Inc (NTNX), Salesforce Inc (CRM), Snowflake Inc (SNOW), Synopsys Inc (SNPS), U-Haul Holding Co (UHAL).
On the date of publication, Rich Asplund did not have (either directly or indirectly) positions in any of the securities mentioned in this article. All information and data in this article is solely for informational purposes. For more information please view the Barchart Disclosure Policy here.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Stocks Finish Mostly Higher on Iran Peace Progress

The S&P 500 Index ($SPX) (SPY) today is up +0.81%, the Dow Jones Industrial Average ($DOWI) (DIA) is down -0.10%, and the Nasdaq 100 Index ($IUXX) (QQQ) is up +1.74%. June E-mini S&P futures (ESM26) are up +0.77%, and June E-mini Nasdaq futures (NQM26) are up +1.71%.
Stock indexes are mostly rallying today, with the S&P 500 and Nasdaq 100 posting new all-time highs. Stocks are finding support as a drop in crude oil prices and bond yields fuels a rally in technology stocks after officials signaled the US was nearing a deal with Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and restore oil flows. According to the Washington Post, the US and Iran have developed a memorandum that would extend the ceasefire by 60 days as the two sides seek a permanent deal, and if agreed, the Strait of Hormuz would be de-mined and reopened in the meantime. Secretary of State Rubio said negotiations will still "take a few days" as both sides discuss language in an initial document. WTI crude oil fell to a 2.5-week low today, and the 10-year T-note yield fell to a 1.5-week low of 4.47%.
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However, stock index futures were undercut after the US Central Command said US forces struck Iranian missile-launch sites and boats trying to place mines in the Strait of Hormuz. Also, weakness in health insurance stocks and energy producers has knocked the Dow Jones Industrial Average into negative territory.
US economic news today is mixed for stocks. The Apr Chicago Fed National Activity Index rose +0.29 to a 13-month high of 0.14, stronger than expectations of -0.03. Also, the Mar S&P Composite-20 home price index rose +0.83% y/y, a smaller increase than the +0.90% y/y expected and the smallest year-on-year gain in more than 2.5 years. In addition, the Conference Board US May consumer confidence index fell -0.7 to 93.1, a smaller decline than expectations of 92.0.
WTI crude oil prices (CLM26) remain extremely volatile and are susceptible to headlines from the Iran war. Crude oil prices fell more than -2% today to a 2.5-week low after the US and Iran said peace talks were progressing. However, crude prices rebounded from their worst levels after US and Israeli jets struck missile sites in Iran and boats laying mines in the Strait of Hormuz.
The International Energy Agency (IEA) said in a recently released monthly report that global oil inventories declined at a rate of about 4 million bpd in March and April, and the market will remain “severely undersupplied” until October even if the conflict ends next month. Goldman Sachs estimates that the current disruption has drawn down nearly 500 million bbl from global crude stockpiles, with the drawdown potentially reaching 1 billion bbl by June.
The markets are discounting a 3% chance of a -25 bp FOMC rate cut at the next FOMC meeting on June 16-17.
Earnings season is winding down, and reports thus far have been supportive of stocks. As of today, 83% of the 475 S&P 500 companies that reported Q1 earnings have beaten estimates. Q1 S&P 500 earnings are projected to climb +12% y/y, according to Bloomberg Intelligence. Stripping out the technology sector, Q1 earnings are projected to increase around +3%, the weakest in two years.
Overseas stock markets are lower today. The Euro Stoxx 50 is down -0.81%. China's Shanghai Composite closed down -0.17%. Japan's Nikkei Stock Average closed down -0.25%.
Interest Rates
June 10-year T-notes (ZNM6) today are up by +17 ticks. The 10-year T-note yield is down -6.5 bp to 4.493%. June T-note prices rallied to a 1.5-week high, and the 10-year T-note yield fell to a 1.5-week low of 4.473%. Today’s -2% fall in WTI crude oil prices has reduced inflation expectations and is bullish for T-note prices. The 10-year breakeven inflation rate fell to a 1-month low of 2.375% today. Limiting gains in T-notes is supply pressure, as the Treasury will auction $217 billion of T-notes and floating-rate notes this week, beginning with today’s $69 billion auction of 2-year T-notes.
European government bond yields are mixed. The 10-year German Bund yield is up +3.6 bp to 2.982%. The 10-year UK gilt yield fell to a 5-week low of 4.820% and is down -2.8 bp to 4.869%.
ECB Executive Board member Isabel Schnabel said even if there's a quick resolution to the conflict in the Middle East, "I think a rate hike by the ECB in June will be needed." She added that "given the high persistence of the energy shock, I believe that the negative impact on economic growth will also be stronger" than initially expected.
ECB Chief Economist Philip Lane said the ECB will probably raise its quarterly inflation outlook at next month's policy meeting as the Iran war keeps energy prices elevated.
Swaps are discounting a 92% chance of a +25 bp ECB rate hike at its next policy meeting on June 11.
US Stock Movers
Chipmakers and AI infrastructure stocks are gaining today, helping lift the broader market. Micron Technology (MCHP) is up more than +12% to lead gainers in the S&P 500 and Nasdaq 100, and ON Semiconductor (ON) and Marvell Technology (MRVL) are up more than +8%. Also, Sandisk (SNDK) is up more than +6%, and Western Digital (WDC) and Analog Devices (ADI) are up more than +5%. In addition, Microchip Technology (MCHP) and Texas Instruments (TXN) are up more than +4%, and Advanced Micro Devices (AMD), NXP Semiconductors NV (NXPI), and KLA Corp (KLAC) are up more than +3%.
Airlines and cruise line operators are climbing today, with WTI crude oil prices down more than -3%, which reduces fuel costs and bolsters profitability. American Airlines Group (AAL) is up more than +6%, and United Airlines Holdings (UAL) is up more than +5%. Also, Alaska Air Group (ALK), Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (NCLH), and Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd (RCL) are up more than +4%. In addition, Delta Air Lines (DAL) and Carnival (CCL) are up more than +3%, and Southwest Airlines (LUV) is up more than 2%.
Rocket and satellite companies are moving higher today after SpaceX filed to become the largest-ever initial public offering. Redwire (RDW) is up more than +27%, and AST Spacemobile (ASTS) is up more than +19%. Also, Firefly Aerospace (FLY) and Intuitive Machines (LUNR) are up more than +14%.
Energy producers and energy service providers are falling today after WTI crude oil prices slid to a 2.5-week low. Chevron (CVX) is down more than -2% to lead losers in the Dow Jones industrials. Also, Exxon Mobil (XOM) is down more than -2%, and Devon Energy (DVN), ConocoPhillips (COP), APA Corp (APA), and Valero Energy (VLO) are down more than -1%.
Defensive health insurance stocks are under pressure with today’s rally in the broader market. Centene (CNC) and Elevance Health (ELV) are down more than -2%. Also, Humana (HUM), CVS Health (CVS), and Cigna Group (CI) are down more than -1%.
Allient (ALNT) is up more than +9% after JPMorgan Chase upgraded the stock to overweight from neutral with a price target of $80.
Autoliv (ALV) is up more than +2% after Handelsbanken upgraded the stock to buy from hold with a price target of $145.
AutoZone (AZO) is down more than -11% to lead losers in the S&P 500 after reporting Q3 net sales of $4.84 billion, below the consensus of $4.87 billion. Also, O’Reilly Automotive (ORLY) is down more than -4% to lead losers in the Nasdaq 100.
Earnings Reports(5/26/2026)
AutoZone Inc (AZO), Box Inc (BOX), Champion Homes Inc (SKY), CSW Industrials Inc (CSW), Digital Turbine Inc (APPS), Modine Manufacturing Co (MOD), Ooma Inc (OOMA), Semtech Corp (SMTC), Transcat Inc (TRNS), Zscaler Inc (ZS).
On the date of publication, Rich Asplund did not have (either directly or indirectly) positions in any of the securities mentioned in this article. All information and data in this article is solely for informational purposes. For more information please view the Barchart Disclosure Policy here.
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

S&P 500 and Nasdaq 100 Climb to Record Highs on Tech Stock Strength

UnitedHealth Group Incorporated UNH is back in the spotlight after Berkshire Hathaway disclosed that it has sold its stake in the health insurer. The update came from Berkshire’s latest 13F filing, highlighted by Reuters, which showed the firm held no UNH shares as of March 31, 2026. UNH declined 2% from Thursday’s closing.
Berkshire is not a typical institutional holder. When it builds a position, investors often view it as a vote of confidence. Last August, Berkshire revealed that it had accumulated more than 5 million UNH shares as of June 30, 2025, a stake valued at roughly $1.57 billion. Buffett’s move was widely seen as a bet that the company’s setbacks at the time — including fallout from a major cyberattack, higher medical costs, softer earnings momentum and ongoing regulatory scrutiny — would ease over time. The disclosure helped lift sentiment and added fuel to UNH’s rebound.
The first quarter’s filing delivered the opposite reaction. The sudden exit caught traders off guard and added selling pressure to the stock, but many viewed the move as simple profit-taking or risk reduction rather than a sign that something was fundamentally wrong with the business. The UNH exit also fits into a wider portfolio shake-up under Berkshire’s new CEO, Greg Abel. The company trimmed or eliminated positions such as Amazon, Visa and Mastercard, while adding exposure to names like Delta Air Lines, Macy’s and Alphabet, pointing to a broader shift in positioning.
Meanwhile, several of the concerns Berkshire originally appeared willing to look past have not fully disappeared. Medical costs remain elevated (but better managed), Medicare Advantage margins are still tight, and regulatory questions continue to linger. UnitedHealth may be stabilizing, but the key headwinds are still in play.
Peers like Centene Corporation CNC and Elevance Health, Inc. ELV are also dealing with rising medical costs as utilization stays elevated. Still, both appear to be navigating the pressure. Centene’s health benefits ratio improved to 87.3% in the first quarter from 87.5% a year earlier, helped by stronger rates, higher revenues, better cost controls and milder flu-related costs. Elevance, however, saw its benefit expense ratio tick up to 86.8% from 86.4%, reflecting higher medical costs, partly offset by improved Medicare performance.
UnitedHealth’s Price Performance, Valuation and Estimates
Shares of UNH have gained 18.5% in the year-to-date period compared with the industry’s growth of 17.5%.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
From a valuation standpoint, UnitedHealth trades at a forward price-to-earnings ratio of 20.42, up from the industry average of 17.32. UNH carries a Value Score of B.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for UnitedHealth’s 2026 earnings is pegged at $18.25 per share, implying an 11.6% improvement from the year-ago period.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
The stock currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
Beyond Nvidia: AI's Second Wave Is Here
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Elevance Health, Inc. (ELV) : Free Stock Analysis Report
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

UnitedHealth Under the Microscope After Berkshire Pulls the Plug

The S&P 500 Index ($SPX) (SPY) on Tuesday closed down -0.16%, the Dow Jones Industrial Average ($DOWI) (DIA) closed up +0.11%, and the Nasdaq 100 Index ($IUXX) (QQQ) closed down -0.87%. June E-mini S&P futures (ESM26) fell -0.16%, and June E-mini Nasdaq futures (NQM26) fell -0.90%.
Stock indexes settled mixed on Tuesday. The broader market was under pressure amid weakness in technology stocks, following Monday’s rally that pushed the S&P 500 and Nasdaq 100 to new record highs. The ongoing stalemate in the Middle East between the US and Iran is keeping the Strait of Hormuz closed, weighing on market sentiment, and pushing crude oil prices and bond yields higher. The 10-year T-note yield rose +5 bp to 4.46%.
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Stock indexes added to their losses on Tuesday amid signs of accelerating inflation after the US Apr CPI rose 3.8% y/y, stronger than the 3.7% y/y expected and the largest increase in almost 3 years. Also, Apr core CPI rose +2.8% y/y, stronger than expectations of +2.7% y/y and the largest increase in six months.
However, stock indexes bounced off their lows, and the Dow Jones Industrial Average moved into positive territory on the strength of health insurance stocks.
Hawkish comments on Tuesday from Chicago Fed President Austan Goolsbee were bearish for stocks and bonds, as he said the worst part of today's April CPI report is services inflation and that "the Fed has got to be thinking about how do we break the chain of escalating inflation."
In the latest developments in the Middle East, President Trump called Iran's response to his peace proposal a "piece of garbage" and said that the current ceasefire was on "life support." Mr. Trump said, "Iran will make a deal or be decimated."
WTI crude oil prices (CLM26) rose more than 4% on Tuesday, as President Trump cast doubt over the ceasefire with Iran, saying the truce was on “massive life support,” prolonging the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. The strait remains essentially closed, as about a fifth of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas transits through the strait. Goldman Sachs estimates that the current disruption has drawn down nearly 500 million bbl from global crude stockpiles, with the drawdown potentially reaching 1 billion bbl by June.
The markets are discounting a 4% chance of a -25 bp FOMC rate cut at the next FOMC meeting on June 16-17.
Earnings reports thus far in this reporting season have been supportive of stocks. As of Tuesday, 83% of the 454 S&P 500 companies that reported Q1 earnings have beaten estimates. Q1 S&P 500 earnings are projected to climb +12% y/y, according to Bloomberg Intelligence. Stripping out the technology sector, Q1 earnings are projected to increase around +3%, the weakest in two years.
Overseas stock markets settled mixed on Tuesday. The Euro Stoxx 50 closed down -1.48%. China's Shanghai Composite fell from a 10-year high and closed down -0.25%. Japan's Nikkei Stock Average closed up +0.52%.
Interest Rates
June 10-year T-notes (ZNM6) on Tuesday closed down -12 ticks. The 10-year T-note yield rose +4.9 bp to 4.462%. Jun T-notes matched last Monday’s 6-week low on Tuesday, and the 10-year T-note yield rose to a 6-week high of 4.465%. T-notes were under pressure on Tuesday amid a +4% surge in WTI crude oil prices, which boosted inflation expectations. Also, Tuesday’s stronger-than-expected US April CPI reports signal accelerating inflation, a bearish factor for T-notes. In addition, T-notes weakened on comments from Chicago Fed President Austan Goolsbee, who said the US has an inflation problem.
T-note price fell further on Tuesday afternoon amid weak demand for the Treasury’s $42 billion auction of 10-year T-notes that had a bid-to-cover ratio of 2.40, below the 10-auction average of 2.49.
European government bond yields moved higher on Tuesday. The 10-year German Bund yield rose to a 1.5-week high of 3.105% and finished up +6.1 bp to 3.101%. The 10-year UK gilt yield surged to a 17-year high of 5.135% and finished up +10.3 bp to 5.101%.
The German May ZEW survey expectation of economic growth unexpectedly rose +7.0 to -10.2, stronger than expectations of a decline to -19.5.
ECB Governing Council member Christodoulos Patsalides said, "As things stand, inflation risks are worsening," which points to an ECB interest rate hike in June.
Swaps are discounting an 87% chance of a +25 bp ECB rate hike at its next policy meeting on June 11.
US Stock Movers
Chipmakers were on the defensive Tuesday, giving back some of Monday’s sharp gains as the AI infrastructure rally cooled. Qualcomm (QCOM) closed down more than -11% to lead losers in the S&P 500 and Nasdaq 100, and Intel (INTC) closed down more than -6%. Also, Sandisk (SNDK) and Western Digital (WDC) closed down more than -5%, and Micron Technology (MU), Marvell Technology (MRVL), and NXP Semiconductors NV (NXPI) closed down more than -3%. In addition, Applied Materials (AMAT), Advanced Micro Devices (AMD), ASML Holding NV (ASML), Seagate Technology Holdings Plc (STX), Lam Research (LRCX), ARM Holdings Plc (ARM), and Broadcom (AVGO) closed down more than -2%.
Software stocks retreated on Tuesday, weighing on the overall market. Salesforce (CRM) closed down more than -3% to lead losers in the Dow Jones Industrials. Also, Oracle (ORCL) closed down more than -3%, and ServiceNow (NOW), Adobe Systems (ADBE), and Atlassian Corp (TEAM) closed down more than -2%. In addition, Microsoft (MSFT), Intuit (INTU), Datadog (DDOG), and Workday (WDAY) closed down more than -1%.
Defensive health insurance stocks rallied on Tuesday, providing support to the overall market. Humana (HUM) closed up more than +7%, and Centene (CNC) closed up more than +5%. Also, UnitedHealth Group (UNH) closed up more than +3% to lead gainers in the Dow Jones Industrials, and Elevance Health (ELV), United Health Services (UHS), CVS Health Corp (CVS), the Cigna Group (CI), and Molina Healthcare (MOH) closed up more than +3%.
Power Solutions International (PSIX) closed down more than -38% after reporting Q1 revenue of $128.6 million, well below the consensus of $161 million.
Hims & Hers Health (HIMS) closed down more than -13% after reporting Q1 revenue of $608.1 million, weaker than the consensus of $617.5 million, and forecasting full-year adjusted Ebitda of $275 million to $350 million, the midpoint below the consensus of $319.3 million.
AST SpaceMobile (ASTS) closed down more than -11% after reporting a Q1 net loss of -$191.0 million, a wider loss than expectations of -$76.3 million.
Gitlab (GTLB) closed down by more than -9% after announcing plans to cut jobs and make operational changes, moves Raymond James said will be challenging.
Webtoon Entertainment (WBTN) closed down more than -8% after forecasting Q2 revenue of $332 million to $342 million, well below the consensus of $359.9 million.
West Pharmaceutical Services (WST) closed down more than -2% after saying it has experienced a material cybersecurity attack that has disrupted operations globally.
PACS Group (PACS) closed up more than +29% after reporting Q1 revenue of $1.42 billion, stronger than the consensus of $1.36 billion, and raising its full-year Ebitda forecast to $605 million-$625 million from a previous forecast of $555 million-$575 million, well above the consensus of $567 million.
Wendy’s (WEN) closed up more than +17% after the Financial Times reported that Trian Fund Management is seeking investor backing for a bid to take the company private.
Venture Global (VG) closed up more than +14% after reporting Q1 adjusted net income of $488.0 million, well above the consensus of $337.2 million.
Zebra Technologies (ZBRA) closed up more than +11% to lead gainers in the S&P 500 after reporting Q1 adjusted EPS of $4.75, stronger than the consensus of $4.25, and raising its full-year adjusted EPS forecast to $18.30 to $18.70 from a previous forecast of $17.70 to $18.30.
Qnity Electronics (Q) closed up more than +9% after reporting Q1 net sales of $1.42 billion, above the consensus of $1.27 billion.
Steris Plc (STE) closed up more than +4% after forecasting 202y adjusted EPS from continuing operations of $11.10 to $11.30, above the consensus of $11.08.
Earnings Reports(5/13/2026)
Amdocs Ltd (DOX), Birkenstock Holding Plc (BIRK), Cisco Systems Inc (CSCO), Doximity Inc (DOCS), Dynatrace Inc (DT).
On the date of publication, Rich Asplund did not have (either directly or indirectly) positions in any of the securities mentioned in this article. All information and data in this article is solely for informational purposes. For more information please view the Barchart Disclosure Policy here.
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