UPDATE: Jefferies Reiterates Hold Rating, Raises PT on Centene Corp. on 2013 Guidance

In a report published Wednesday, Jefferies reiterated its Hold rating on Centene Corp. CNC, and raised its price target from $41.00 to $43.00. Jefferies noted, “2013 guidance continues to include optimistic assumptions that make it challenging to reach the high end of $2.60-2.90. Further, we may still be in for a cut. The market didn't care today (CNC up 6%) and the dominant focus seems to be on the LT growth opportunities, which are undeniably large. However, besides risk to 2013, 2014 EPS looks lofty and overlooks some risks.” Centene Corp. closed on Tuesday at $44.99.