David S Macdonald, an analyst from Truist Financial, maintained the Buy rating on UnitedHealth (UNH – Research Report). The associated price target remains the same with $580.00.
Confident Investing Starts Here:
- Quickly and easily unpack a company's performance with TipRanks' new KPI Data for smart investment decisions
- Receive undervalued, market resilient stocks straight to you inbox with TipRanks' Smart Value Newsletter
David S Macdonald has given his Buy rating due to a combination of factors including UnitedHealth’s strategic focus on future growth and its robust financial position. Despite the recent leadership change and the suspension of FY25 guidance, the company is targeting growth in 2026 and aims to improve its Medicare Advantage (MA) margins through strategic bids that account for current trends. UnitedHealth’s solid balance sheet and strong free cash flow generation are seen as providing a cushion against current challenges, although successful execution remains crucial.
Furthermore, the company is addressing increased utilization pressures, particularly in its MA segment, which have exceeded initial expectations. These pressures are primarily concentrated in outpatient and physician care, but the company is actively engaging members to mitigate these challenges. UnitedHealth’s management is incorporating these trends into their 2026 plans, with confidence in returning to their target MA margin range. This strategic approach underpins Macdonald’s Buy rating, as he views the company’s long-term growth prospects favorably.
In another report released today, Bernstein also maintained a Buy rating on the stock with a $594.00 price target.