Ensign Group (NASDAQ:ENSG) Stock, Quote.Headers.trade-ideas

Ensign Group

Ensign Group Inc provides post-acute healthcare services in the United States. Its regional subsidiaries oversee skilled nursing, assisted living, home health and hospice, mobile ancillary, and urgent care operations. Medicare and Medicaid programs contribute a majority of revenue received for Ensign's services. The firm operates through two segments, Skilled services, and Standard Bearer. The skilled services segment includes the operation of skilled nursing facilities and rehabilitation therapy services. The Standard Bearer segment comprises of properties owned by the company through its captive REIT and leased to skilled nursing and assisted living operations. The majority of the revenue is generated from the skilled services segment.

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ENSG

Shares of The Cigna Group (NYSE: CI) have gained 25.6% in the past year compared with the industry&#39;s 18.2% growth. The Medical sector and the S&amp;P 500 composite index have rallied 9.3% and 21.2%, respectively, in the same time frame.

Cigna Stock Gains 26% in a Year: What Lies Ahead for Investors?

Events

The Ensign Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: ENSG) announced that it has bought the operations of a nursing facility in Overland Park, KS. It has also acquired the operations of seven nursing facilities in Colorado. All these buyouts (with long-term, triple net leases) had an effective date of Sept. 1, 2024. 

Ensign Adds 8 Facilities in Kansas &amp; Colorado to Expand Footprint

Sector ETFs

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COKE

iShares Trust Russell Midcap Growth Index Fund

The First Trust Mid Cap Growth AlphaDEX ETF (NASDAQ: FNY) made its debut on 04/19/2011, and is a smart beta exchange traded fund that provides broad exposure to the Style Box - Mid Cap Growth category of the market.

Is First Trust Mid Cap Growth AlphaDEX ETF a Strong ETF Right Now?

Ensign Group Inc

<p>Ratings for Ensign Group (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ENSG#NASDAQ">ENSG</a>) were provided by 4 analysts in the past three months, showcasing a mix of bullish and bearish perspectives.</p>
<p>The table below summarizes their recent ratings, showcasing the evolving sentiments within the past 30 days and comparing them to the preceding months.</p>
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th></th>
<th style="text-align: right;"><strong>Bullish</strong></th>
<th style="text-align: right;"><strong>Somewhat Bullish</strong></th>
<th style="text-align: right;"><strong>Indifferent</strong></th>
<th style="text-align: right;"><strong>Somewhat Bearish</strong></th>
<th style="text-align: right;"><strong>Bearish</strong></th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td><strong>Total Ratings</strong></td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">2</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">2</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Last 30D</strong></td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>1M Ago</strong></td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>2M Ago</strong></td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>3M Ago</strong></td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>Analysts have set 12-month price targets for Ensign Group, revealing an average target of $152.25, a high estimate of $165.00, and a low estimate of $134.00. Observing a 3.8% increase, the current average has risen from the previous average price target of $146.67. </p>
<p><img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1726495211_0.png" alt="price target chart" /></p>
<h2>Deciphering Analyst Ratings: An In-Depth Analysis</h2>
<p>An in-depth analysis of recent analyst actions unveils how financial experts perceive Ensign Group. The following summary outlines key analysts, their recent evaluations, and adjustments to ratings and price targets.</p>
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Analyst</th>
<th>Analyst Firm</th>
<th>Action Taken</th>
<th>Rating</th>
<th>Current Price Target</th>
<th>Prior Price Target</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Michael Wiederhorn</td>
<td>Oppenheimer</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Outperform</td>
<td>$165.00</td>
<td>$155.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>David Macdonald</td>
<td>Truist Securities</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Hold</td>
<td>$160.00</td>
<td>$150.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>David Macdonald</td>
<td>Truist Securities</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Hold</td>
<td>$150.00</td>
<td>$135.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Tao Qiu</td>
<td>Macquarie</td>
<td>Announces</td>
<td>Outperform</td>
<td>$134.00</td>
<td>-</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h3>Key Insights:</h3>
<ul>
<li><strong>Action Taken:</strong> Analysts frequently update their recommendations based on evolving market conditions and company performance. Whether they 'Maintain', 'Raise' or 'Lower' their stance, it reflects their reaction to recent developments related to Ensign Group. This information provides a snapshot of how analysts perceive the current state of the company.</li>
<li><strong>Rating:</strong> Providing a comprehensive analysis, analysts offer qualitative assessments, ranging from 'Outperform' to 'Underperform'. These ratings reflect expectations for the relative performance of Ensign Group compared to the broader market.</li>
<li><strong>Price Targets:</strong> Understanding forecasts, analysts offer estimates for Ensign Group's future value. Examining the current and prior targets provides insight into analysts' changing expectations.</li>
</ul>
<p>Navigating through these analyst evaluations alongside other financial indicators can contribute to a holistic understanding of Ensign Group's market standing. Stay informed and make data-driven decisions with our Ratings Table.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/ENSG/analyst-ratings?utm_source=Benzinga Insights"><strong>Stay up to date on Ensign Group analyst ratings.</strong></a></p>
<h2>All You Need to Know About Ensign Group</h2>
<p>Ensign Group Inc provides post-acute healthcare services in the United States. Its regional subsidiaries oversee skilled nursing, assisted living, home health and hospice, mobile ancillary, and urgent care operations. Medicare and Medicaid programs contribute a majority of revenue received for Ensign's services. The firm operates through two segments, Skilled services, and Standard Bearer. The skilled services segment includes the operation of skilled nursing facilities and rehabilitation therapy services. The Standard Bearer segment comprises of properties owned by the company through its captive REIT and leased to skilled nursing and assisted living operations. The majority of the revenue is generated from the skilled services segment.</p>
<h3>Unraveling the Financial Story of Ensign Group</h3>
<p><strong>Market Capitalization Analysis:</strong> The company's market capitalization surpasses industry averages, showcasing a dominant size relative to peers and suggesting a strong market position.</p>
<p><strong>Positive Revenue Trend:</strong> Examining Ensign Group's financials over 3 months reveals a positive narrative. The company achieved a noteworthy revenue growth rate of <strong>12.48%</strong> as of 30 June, 2024, showcasing a substantial increase in top-line earnings. As compared to competitors, the company surpassed expectations with a growth rate higher than the average among peers in the Health Care sector.</p>
<p><strong>Net Margin:</strong> Ensign Group's financial strength is reflected in its exceptional net margin, which exceeds industry averages. With a remarkable net margin of <strong>6.85%,</strong> the company showcases strong profitability and effective cost management.</p>
<p><strong>Return on Equity (ROE):</strong> Ensign Group's financial strength is reflected in its exceptional ROE, which exceeds industry averages. With a remarkable ROE of <strong>4.39%,</strong> the company showcases efficient use of equity capital and strong financial health.</p>
<p><strong>Return on Assets (ROA):</strong> Ensign Group's ROA surpasses industry standards, highlighting the company's exceptional financial performance. With an impressive <strong>1.62%</strong> ROA, the company effectively utilizes its assets for optimal returns.</p>
<p><strong>Debt Management:</strong> With a below-average debt-to-equity ratio of <strong>1.18</strong>, Ensign Group adopts a prudent financial strategy, indicating a balanced approach to debt management.</p>
<h2>Analyst Ratings: Simplified</h2>
<p>Analysts are specialists within banking and financial systems that typically report for specific stocks or within defined sectors. These people research company financial statements, sit in conference calls and meetings, and speak with relevant insiders to determine what are known as analyst ratings for stocks. Typically, analysts will rate each stock once a quarter. </p>
<p>Some analysts will also offer forecasts for metrics like growth estimates, earnings, and revenue to provide further guidance on stocks. Investors who use analyst ratings should note that this specialized advice comes from humans and may be subject to error.</p>
<p>This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.</p>


Forecasting The Future: 4 Analyst Projections For Ensign Group

<p>Oppenheimer  analyst Michael Wiederhorn   maintains Ensign Group (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ENSG#NASDAQ">ENSG</a>) with a Outperform and raises the price target from $155 to $165.</p>


Price Target

Oppenheimer Maintains Outperform on Ensign Group, Raises Price Target to $165

<p>Shares of <strong>The Cigna Group</strong> (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ci#NYSE">CI</a>) have gained 25.6% in the past year compared with the industry&#39;s 18.2% growth. The Medical sector and the S&amp;P 500 composite index have rallied 9.3% and 21.2%, respectively, in the same time frame. CI has been well-poised for growth on the back of a sound membership base, solid Evernorth unit, acquisitions and expanding cash reserves.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Currently priced at $357.40, the stock is just 3.6% below its 52-week high of $370.64. This proximity underscores investor confidence and market optimism about Cigna&#39;s prospects.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The health insurer, presently carrying a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold), has an impressive record of beating estimates in each of the trailing four quarters, the average surprise being 3.83%.</p>
<p><img alt="Zacks Investment Research" src="https://staticx-tuner.zacks.com/images/articles/charts/a8/77228.jpg?v=810613562" /></p>
<p>Image Source: Zacks Investment Research</p>
<h2>Robust Growth Prospects of CI Stock</h2>
<p>The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Cigna&#39;s 2024 earnings is pegged at $28.48 per share, which indicates a 13.5% increase from the 2023 figure. The consensus mark for revenues is $239.1 billion, which implies 22.4% growth from the year-ago figure.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2025 earnings is pegged at $31.80 per share, which implies an 11.7% improvement from the 2024 estimate. The consensus mark for revenues is $246.5 billion, implying a 3.1% rise from the 2024 estimate.</p>
<h2>Cigna&#39;s Business Tailwinds</h2>
<p>Cigna&#39;s performance is underscored its strong growth platforms, Evernorth and Cigna Healthcare. Evernorth is propelled by a range of specialty pharmacy services, significantly enhancing pharmacy revenues for the parent company. Pharmacy revenues saw a 31.8% year-over-year increase in the first half of 2024.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Conversely, Cigna Healthcare is strengthened by its sound customer base across the U.S. Healthcare business. This segment anticipates long-term average annual adjusted earnings growth in the band of 7-10%.&nbsp;</p>
<p>An expanding customer base leads to higher premiums, a critical revenue source for health insurers. As of June 30, 2024, Cigna served 19 million medical customers. The aging U.S. population is likely to drive continuous demand for its Medicare plans in the days ahead. In addition to premium growth, Cigna Healthcare benefits from ongoing product enhancements and new or extended partnerships with prominent healthcare systems.</p>
<p>Cigna strategically acquires companies to bolster its solutions and capabilities, broaden its geographical reach and reinforce its market presence. In alignment with its focus on high-growth platforms, it has divested its non-core health units. A robust cash balance and sufficient cash generation abilities allow the company to invest in business expansion and strategically allocate capital for share buybacks and dividends. Over the next five years, management anticipates cash flows of approximately $60 billion.</p>
<h2>Stocks to Consider</h2>
<p>Some better-ranked stocks in the Medical space are <strong>Universal Health Services, Inc. </strong>(NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/uhs#NYSE">UHS</a>), <strong>The Ensign Group, Inc.</strong> (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ensg#NASDAQ">ENSG</a>) and <strong>HCA Healthcare, Inc.</strong> (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/hca#NYSE">HCA</a>). Universal Health currently sports a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), and Ensign Group and HCA Healthcare carry a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy).</p>
<p>Universal Health&#39;s earnings surpassed the Zacks Consensus Estimate in each of the last four quarters, the average surprise being 14.58%. The consensus estimate for UHS&#39; 2024 earnings indicates a rise of 51% from the year-ago number. The consensus mark for revenues indicates growth of 9.8% from the year-ago figure.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The Zacks Consensus Estimate for UHS&#39; earnings has moved 15% north in the past 30 days. Shares of Universal Health have gained 73.7% in the past year.</p>
<p>Ensign Group&#39;s earnings outpaced the Zacks Consensus Estimate in each of the trailing four quarters, the average surprise being 1.40%. The consensus estimate for ENSG&#39;s 2024 earnings indicates a rise of 14.1% from the year-ago number. The consensus mark for revenues implies an improvement of 13.1% from the year-ago figure.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The Zacks Consensus Estimate for ENSG&#39;s earnings has moved 0.7% north in the past 60 days. Shares of Ensign Group have risen 59.9% in the past year. &nbsp;</p>
<p>HCA Healthcare&#39;s earnings beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate in three of the trailing four quarters and missed the mark once, the average surprise being 8.24%. The consensus estimate for HCA&#39;s 2024 earnings indicates an improvement of 18.2% from the year-ago figure. The consensus mark for revenues implies growth of 8.9% from the year-ago figure.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The Zacks Consensus Estimate for HCA&#39;s earnings has moved 1.2% north in the past seven days. Shares of HCA Healthcare have rallied 42% in the past year.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.zacks.com/stock/news/2334211/cigna-stock-gains-26-in-a-year-what-lies-ahead-for-investors?cid=CS-BENZ-FT-analyst_blog|price_surge_/_plunge-2334211">To read this article on Zacks.com click here.</a></p>


<p><strong>The Ensign Group, Inc. </strong>(NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ensg#NASDAQ">ENSG</a>) announced that it has bought the operations of a nursing facility in Overland Park, KS. It has also acquired the operations of seven nursing facilities in Colorado. All these buyouts (with long-term, triple net leases) had an effective date of Sept. 1, 2024.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The 102-bed unit in Kansas, named Prairie Ridge Health and Rehabilitation, boosts ENSG&#39;s footprint in the state. The acquisition comes at an opportune time, as the company is experiencing significant growth in the state over the last year.</p>
<p>The series of acquisitions in Colorado includes the 106-bed Desert Willow Health and Rehabilitation Center in Pueblo, 133-bed Junction Creek Health and Rehabilitation Center in Durango, 104-bed Pelican Pointe Health and Rehabilitation Center in Windsor, 100-bed Riverbend Health and Rehabilitation Center in Loveland, 100-bed Broadview Health and Rehabilitation Center in Greeley, 107-bed Westlake Lodge Health and Rehabilitation Center in Greeley and 110-bed Linden Place Health and Rehabilitation Center in Longmont.</p>
<p>The acquisition deals have increased Ensign&#39;s portfolio to encompass 323 healthcare operations spanning 14 states. Of the total, 29 also have senior living operations. The company, along with its subsidiaries like Standard Bearer, now owns 122 real estate properties.</p>
<p>ENSG boasts a strong inorganic growth story. The company remains committed to pursuing opportunities for acquiring real estate and leasing both successful and struggling skilled nursing, senior living and other healthcare-related operations. As the number of facilities rises, revenues from skilled services are expected to increase, supported by higher occupancy rates and patient days, indicating robust growth in profits and the top line. This is reflected in the estimates.</p>
<h2>ENSG&#39;s 2024 Estimates</h2>
<p>The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Ensign&#39;s 2024 earnings indicates 14.1% year-over-year growth to $5.44 per share. It beat earnings estimates in each of the past four quarters, with an average surprise of 1.4%. Also, the consensus mark for 2024 revenues indicates a 13.1% jump from a year ago.</p>
<h2>Price Performance</h2>
<p>Shares of Ensign have jumped 23% in the past three months compared with the industry&#39;s 20.9% growth.</p>
<h2>Zacks Rank &amp; Other Key Picks</h2>
<p><img alt="Zacks Investment Research" src="https://staticx-tuner.zacks.com/images/articles/charts/ff/76571.jpg?v=2074871970" /></p>
<p>Image Source: Zacks Investment Research</p>
<p>The company currently carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). Investors can look at some other top-ranked stocks in the broader Medical&nbsp;space, like <strong>Universal Health Services, Inc.</strong> (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/uhs#NYSE">UHS</a>), <strong>Tenet Healthcare Corporation</strong> (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/thc#NYSE">THC</a>) and <strong>Quest Diagnostics Incorporated </strong>(NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/dgx#NYSE">DGX</a>). While Universal Health and Tenet Healthcare currently sport a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) each, Quest Diagnostics carries a Zacks Rank #2.</p>
<p>The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Universal Health Services&#39; 2024 bottom line suggests 50.8% year-over-year growth. UHS witnessed two upward estimate revisions over the past month against no movement in the opposite direction. It beat earnings estimates in each of the last four quarters, with the average surprise being 14.6%.</p>
<p>The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Tenet Healthcare&#39;s 2024 bottom line is pegged at $10.70 per share, which indicates 53.3% growth from a year ago. During the past month, THC witnessed two upward estimate revisions against none in the opposite direction. It beat earnings estimates in each of the last four quarters, with the average surprise being 58.5%.</p>
<p>The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Quest Diagnostics&#39; 2024 full-year earnings implies a 2.1% increase from the year-ago reported figure. DGX beat earnings estimates in each of the last four quarters, with an average surprise of 3.3%. The consensus mark for its current-year revenues is pegged at $9.6 billion, which indicates a 3.3% year-over-year increase.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.zacks.com/stock/news/2331595/ensign-adds-8-facilities-in-kansas-colorado-to-expand-footprint?cid=CS-BENZ-FT-analyst_blog|company_news_medical_sector-2331595">To read this article on Zacks.com click here.</a></p>


Ensign Adds 8 Facilities in Kansas & Colorado to Expand Footprint

<p>The <strong>First Trust Mid Cap Growth AlphaDEX ETF</strong> (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/fny#NASDAQ">FNY</a>) made its debut on 04/19/2011, and is a smart beta exchange traded fund that provides broad exposure to the Style Box - Mid Cap Growth category of the market.</p>
<h2>What Are Smart Beta ETFs?</h2>
<p>Products that are based on market cap weighted indexes, which are strategies designed to reflect a specific market segment or the market as a whole, have traditionally dominated the ETF industry.</p>
<p>Investors who believe in market efficiency should consider market cap indexes, as they replicate market returns in a low-cost, convenient, and transparent way.</p>
<p>There are some investors, though, who think it&#39;s possible to beat the market with great stock selection; this group likely invests in another class of funds known as smart beta, which track non-cap weighted strategies.</p>
<p>Non-cap weighted indexes try to choose stocks that have a better chance of risk-return performance, which is based on specific fundamental characteristics, or a mix of other such characteristics.</p>
<p>This area offers many different investment choices, such as simplest equal-weighting, fundamental weighting and volatility/momentum based weighting methodologies; however, not all of these strategies can deliver superior results.</p>
<h2>Fund Sponsor &amp; Index</h2>
<p>The fund is managed by First Trust Advisors. FNY has been able to amass assets over $346.61 million, making it one of the average sized ETFs in the Style Box - Mid Cap Growth. FNY seeks to match the performance of the Nasdaq AlphaDEX Mid Cap Growth Index before fees and expenses.</p>
<p>The NASDAQ AlphaDEX Mid Cap Growth Index is an enhanced which employs the AlphaDEX stock selection methodology to select stocks from the NASDAQ US 600 Mid Cap Growth Index.</p>
<h2>Cost &amp; Other Expenses</h2>
<p>Cost is an important factor in selecting the right ETF, and cheaper funds can significantly outperform their more expensive cousins if all other fundamentals are the same.</p>
<p>Annual operating expenses for FNY are 0.70%, which makes it one of the most expensive products in the space.</p>
<p>The fund has a 12-month trailing dividend yield of 0.08%.</p>
<h2>Sector Exposure and Top Holdings</h2>
<p>It is important to delve into an ETF&#39;s holdings before investing despite the many upsides to these kinds of funds like diversified exposure, which minimizes single stock risk. And, most ETFs are very transparent products that disclose their holdings on a daily basis.</p>
<p>Representing 23.80% of the portfolio, the fund has heaviest allocation to the Industrials sector; Consumer Discretionary and Healthcare round out the top three.</p>
<p>Taking into account individual holdings, <strong>Coca-Cola Consolidated Inc.</strong> (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/coke#NASDAQ">COKE</a>) accounts for about 0.86% of the fund&#39;s total assets, followed by <strong>Sprouts Farmers Market, Inc.</strong> (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/sfm#NASDAQ">SFM</a>) and <strong>The Ensign Group, Inc.</strong> (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ensg#NASDAQ">ENSG</a>).</p>
<p>The top 10 holdings account for about 8.31% of total assets under management.</p>
<h2>Performance and Risk</h2>
<p>The ETF has gained about 10.69% and it&#39;s up approximately 16.13% so far this year and in the past one year (as of 09/04/2024), respectively. FNY has traded between $55.49 and $77.95 during this last 52-week period.</p>
<p>The fund has a beta of 1.14 and standard deviation of 22.52% for the trailing three-year period, which makes FNY a medium risk choice in this particular space. With about 226 holdings, it effectively diversifies company-specific risk.</p>
<h2>Alternatives</h2>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>First Trust Mid Cap Growth AlphaDEX ETF is a reasonable option for investors seeking to outperform the Style Box - Mid Cap Growth segment of the market. However, there are other ETFs in the space which investors could consider.</p>
<p><strong>Vanguard Mid-Cap Growth ETF</strong> (ARCA:VOT) tracks CRSP U.S. Mid Cap Growth Index and the <strong>iShares Russell Mid-Cap Growth ETF</strong> (ARCA:IWP) tracks Russell MidCap Growth Index. Vanguard Mid-Cap Growth ETF has $13.39 billion in assets, iShares Russell Mid-Cap Growth ETF has $14.07 billion. VOT has an expense ratio of 0.07% and IWP charges 0.23%.</p>
<p>Investors looking for cheaper and lower-risk options should consider traditional market cap weighted ETFs that aim to match the returns of the Style Box - Mid Cap Growth.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.zacks.com/stock/news/2331116/is-first-trust-mid-cap-growth-alphadex-etf-fny-a-strong-etf-right-now?cid=CS-BENZ-FT-smart_beta_etf-2331116">To read this article on Zacks.com click here.</a></p>


<p>Ensign Group (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ENSG#NASDAQ">ENSG</a>) has outperformed the market over the past 10 years by 14.3% on an annualized basis producing an average annual return of 25.02%. Currently, Ensign Group has a market capitalization of $8.46 billion. </p>
<p><strong>Buying $1000 In ENSG:</strong> If an investor had bought $1000 of ENSG stock 10 years ago, it would be worth <strong>$9,222.75</strong> today based on a price of $148.11 for ENSG at the time of writing.</p>
<h3>Ensign Group's Performance Over Last 10 Years</h3>
<p><img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1725465611_0.png" alt="comp_fig" /></p>
<p>Finally -- what's the point of all this? The key insight to take from this article is to note how much of a difference compounded returns can make in your cash growth over a period of time.</p>
<p><em>This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.</em></p>


If You Invested $1000 In This Stock 10 Years Ago, You Would Have $9,200 Today

Ensign Group Acquires Operations Of Several Skilled Nursing Facilities In Colorado; No Terms Disclosed

Ensign Group Acquired The Operations Of Prairie Ridge Health And Rehabilitation, A 102-bed Skilled Nursing Facility In Park, Kansas, Deal Terms Were Not Disclosed

<p><strong>Acadia Healthcare Company, Inc.</strong> (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/achc#NASDAQ">ACHC</a>) and Methodist Jennie Edmundson Hospital recently conducted a groundbreaking ceremony for a cutting-edge behavioral health hospital in Council Bluffs, IA. Plans to establish the hospital were announced in July 2023 as part of the joint-venture partnership between ACHC and Omaha-based Methodist Health System. The Methodist Jennie Edmundson Hospital is part of Methodist Health System.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The new facility will be named Methodist Jennie Edmundson Behavioral Health and is likely to commence operations in 2026. It will feature 96 inpatient beds, with 24 specifically designated for addressing the mental health needs of children and adolescents. It will also offer intensive outpatient services. The hospital will invest in cutting-edge technology and resources to enhance access to high-quality behavioral health services for patients dealing with acute mental health and substance use disorders.</p>
<p>This, in turn, is expected to bring about improved health outcomes for residents of western Iowa and eastern Nebraska. Working closely with local organizations, hospitals and first responders of the two regions will enable the joint venture partners to better serve the targeted regions.</p>
<h2>A Time-Opportune Move on ACHC&#39;s Part</h2>
<p>Opening the Methodist Jennie Edmundson Behavioral Health Hospital is likely to be a time-opportune move considering the dire need for acute and intensive outpatient behavioral health services across the Council Bluffs community. According to the American Hospital Directory, there remains a shortage of more than 300 inpatient behavioral health beds in Iowa and Nebraska, which further substantiates the timeliness of the recent move.</p>
<h2>Benefits to Acadia Healthcare</h2>
<p>New facilities resulting from joint ventures offer a means for ACHC to serve a greater number of patients and earn more revenues.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Acadia Healthcare often resorts to buyouts or joint ventures with renowned U.S. health systems to inaugurate new hospitals or expand existing facilities through bed additions. Its healthcare portfolio comprised 258 behavioral healthcare facilities across 38 states and Puerto Rico as of June 30, 2024. Management anticipates adding more than 400 beds to existing facilities in 2024.</p>
<h2>ACHC Stock&#39;s Price Performance</h2>
<p>Shares of Acadia Healthcare have gained 19.2% in the past month compared with the industry&#39;s 8.5% growth.</p>
<p><img alt="Zacks Investment Research" src="https://staticx-tuner.zacks.com/images/articles/charts/4d/75809.jpg?v=356746199" /></p>
<p>Image Source: Zacks Investment Research</p>
<h2>Zacks Rank &amp; Key Picks</h2>
<p>ACHC currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold).&nbsp;</p>
<p>Some better-ranked stocks in the Medical space are <strong>LeMaitre Vascular, Inc. </strong>(NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/lmat#NASDAQ">LMAT</a>)&nbsp;, <strong>Avanos Medical, Inc. </strong>(NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/avns#NYSE">AVNS</a>) and <strong>The Ensign Group, Inc.</strong> (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ensg#NASDAQ">ENSG</a>). While LeMaitre Vascular sports a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), Avanos Medical and Ensign Group carry a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) at present.</p>
<p>LeMaitre Vascular&#39;s earnings surpassed the Zacks Consensus Estimate in each of the last four quarters, the average surprise being 8.87%. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for LMAT&#39;s 2024 earnings implies an improvement of 37% while the same for revenues indicates growth of 13% from the respective 2023 figures.</p>
<p>The Zacks Consensus Estimate for LMAT&#39;s&nbsp; earnings has moved 4.5% north in the past 30 days. Shares of LeMaitre Vascular have gained 2.4% in the past month.</p>
<p>Avanos Medical&#39;s earnings surpassed estimates in three of the last four quarters and missed the mark once, the average surprise being 5.69%. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for AVNS&#39; 2024 earnings indicates a 35% rise from the 2023 figure.</p>
<p>The consensus mark for AVNS&#39;&nbsp; earnings has moved 0.7% north in the past 30 days. Shares of Avanos Medical have gained 6.1% in the past month.</p>
<p>Ensign Group&#39;s earnings outpaced estimates in each of the trailing four quarters, the average surprise being 1.40%. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for ENSG&#39;s 2024 earnings indicates an 14.1% rise while the same for revenues implies an improvement of 13.1% from the respective 2023 reported figures.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The consensus mark for ENSG&#39;s earnings has moved up 0.7% in the past 30 days.&nbsp; Shares of Ensign Group have gained 1.8% in the past month.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.zacks.com/stock/news/2328512/acadia-healthcare-expands-behavioral-health-services-in-iowa?cid=CS-BENZ-FT-analyst_blog|company_news_medical_sector-2328512">To read this article on Zacks.com click here.</a></p>


Small Cap

ACHC

AVNS

LMAT

Acadia Healthcare Expands Behavioral Health Services in Iowa

<p>Ensign Group (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ENSG#NASDAQ">ENSG</a>) has outperformed the market over the past 15 years by 10.21% on an annualized basis producing an average annual return of 22.13%. Currently, Ensign Group has a market capitalization of $8.06 billion. </p>
<p><strong>Buying $100 In ENSG:</strong> If an investor had bought $100 of ENSG stock 15 years ago, it would be worth <strong>$1,987.67</strong> today based on a price of $141.13 for ENSG at the time of writing.</p>
<h3>Ensign Group's Performance Over Last 15 Years</h3>
<p><img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1724097612_0.png" alt="comp_fig" /></p>
<p>Finally -- what's the point of all this? The key insight to take from this article is to note how much of a difference compounded returns can make in your cash growth over a period of time.</p>
<p><em>This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.</em></p>


If You Invested $100 In This Stock 15 Years Ago, You Would Have $2,000 Today

<p>Ensign Group (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ENSG#NASDAQ">ENSG</a>) has outperformed the market over the past 15 years by 10.5% on an annualized basis producing an average annual return of 22.38%. Currently, Ensign Group has a market capitalization of $7.98 billion. </p>
<p><strong>Buying $100 In ENSG:</strong> If an investor had bought $100 of ENSG stock 15 years ago, it would be worth <strong>$2,009.50</strong> today based on a price of $139.72 for ENSG at the time of writing.</p>
<h3>Ensign Group's Performance Over Last 15 Years</h3>
<p><img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1723482022_0.png" alt="comp_fig" /></p>
<p>Finally -- what's the point of all this? The key insight to take from this article is to note how much of a difference compounded returns can make in your cash growth over a period of time.</p>
<p><em>This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.</em></p>


Here's How Much $100 Invested In Ensign Group 15 Years Ago Would Be Worth Today

<p><strong>Ensign Group's</strong> (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ENSG#NYSE">ENSG</a>) short percent of float has fallen 11.47% since its last report. The company recently reported that it has <strong>2.85 million shares sold short</strong>, which is 7.49% of all regular shares that are available for trading. Based on its trading volume, <strong>it would take traders 5.93 days to cover their short positions on average.</strong></p>
<h3>Why Short Interest Matters</h3>
<p>Short interest is the number of shares that have been sold short but have not yet been covered or closed out. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-short-a-stock/">Short selling</a> is when a trader sells shares of a company they do not own, with the hope that the price will fall. Traders make money from short selling if the price of the stock falls and they lose if it rises.</p>
<p>Short interest is important to track because it can act as an indicator of market sentiment towards a particular stock. An increase in short interest can signal that investors have become more bearish, while a decrease in short interest can signal they have become more bullish.</p>
<p><strong>See Also:</strong> <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/short-interest"><strong>List of the most shorted stocks</strong></a></p>
<h3>Ensign Group Short Interest Graph (3 Months)</h3>
<p><img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1723225522_0.png" alt="short_fig" /></p>
<p>As you can see from the chart above the percentage of shares that are sold short for Ensign Group has declined since its last report. This does not mean that the stock is going to rise in the near-term but traders should be aware that less shares are being shorted.</p>
<h3>Comparing Ensign Group's Short Interest Against Its Peers</h3>
<p>Peer comparison is a popular technique amongst analysts and investors for gauging how well a company is performing. A company's peer is another company that has similar characteristics to it, such as industry, size, age, and financial structure. You can find a company's peer group by reading its 10-K, proxy filing, or by doing your own similarity analysis.</p>
<p>According to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/">Benzinga Pro</a>, Ensign Group's peer group average for short interest as a percentage of float is 6.31%, which means the company has <strong>more</strong> short interest than most of its peers.</p>
<p>Did you know that increasing short interest can actually be <strong>bullish</strong> for a stock? <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-make-money-on-a-short-squeeze/"><strong>This post by Benzinga Money explains how you can profit from it.</strong></a></p>
<p><em>This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and was reviewed by an editor.</em></p>


Short Sellers

Short Ideas

Peering Into Ensign Group's Recent Short Interest

<p>The real estate was acquired by a subsidiary of Standard Bearer Healthcare REIT, Inc., Ensign&#39;s captive real estate company, and the acquisition is effective as of August 1, 2024.</p>


Ensign Group Acquires Real Estate And Operations Of Greater Southside Health And Rehabilitation, An 76-bed Skilled Nursing Facility, Iowa

The Ensign Group Acquired Holly Heights Care And Rehabilitation, A 133-bed Skilled Nursing Facility Located In Denver, Colorado

<p><strong>Humana Inc.</strong> (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/hum#NYSE">HUM</a>) posted second-quarter 2024 adjusted earnings per share of $6.96, which surpassed the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 18.2%. However, the bottom line fell 22.1% year over year.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Adjusted revenues improved 14.2% year over year to $29.4 billion. The top line beat the consensus mark by 2.6%.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The quarterly results benefited from strong premium growth and increased service revenues, driven by expanding Medicare Advantage membership and an improved Primary Care business. However, the upside was partly offset by rising benefits expenses and a continued decline in the company&#39;s group commercial medical and standalone prescription drug plan membership. Nevertheless, a hiked 2024 guidance for individual Medicare Advantage membership growth seems commendable as Humana derives a major portion of its premiums from this business line.</p>
<div class="chart_embed">
<h3>Humana Inc. Price, Consensus and EPS Surprise</h3>
<p><img alt="Humana Inc. Price, Consensus and EPS Surprise" src="https://staticx-tuner.zacks.com/images/charts/5e/1722442508.png" style="height:265px; width:587px" title="" /></p>
<p>Humana Inc. price-consensus-eps-surprise-chart | Humana Inc. Quote</p>
</div>
<h3>Operational Update</h3>
<p>Humana&#39;s total premiums of $28.1 billion advanced 10.4% year over year, higher than the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $27.2 billion and our estimate of $26.8 billion.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Services revenues rose 12.5% year over year to $1.1 billion, beating the consensus mark of $988.5 million and our estimate of $984.7 million. Investment income was $298 million, up 8.8% year over year. The metric, however, lagged the consensus estimate of $304.7 million and our estimate of $363.7 million.</p>
<p>The benefits expense ratio deteriorated 270 basis points (bps) year over year to 89% due to increased Medicare Advantage medical cost trends.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Total operating expenses escalated 12.2% year over year to $28.4 billion, higher than our estimate of $27.1 billion. The year-over-year increase was mainly due to elevated benefits expenses and operating costs. Meanwhile, the operating cost ratio improved 100 bps year over year to 10.8%, thanks to a boost in scale as a result of expanding Medicare Advantage membership coupled with administrative cost efficiencies.</p>
<p>HUM&#39;s operating income of $1.14 billion, which tumbled 20.5% year over year, outpaced our estimate of $1.06 billion.</p>
<h3>Segmental Update</h3>
<h3>Insurance</h3>
<p>The segment recorded adjusted revenues of $28.4 billion in the second quarter, which grew 14.1% year over year, attributable to improved per-member Medicare premiums, and membership growth in Medicare Advantage business and state-based contracts.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Adjusted operating income dropped 29.5% year over year to $826 million. Adjusted benefits expense ratio of 89.4% deteriorated 280 bps year over year. Adjusted operating cost ratio improved 80 bps year over year to 8.4%.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Total medical membership of the segment was 16.3 million as of Jun 30, 2024, which fell 4.8% year over year and came lower than the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 16.33 million.</p>
<h3>CenterWell</h3>
<p>The segment&#39;s revenues advanced 9.2% year over year to $4.9 billion, higher than the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $4.8 billion and our estimate of $4.7 billion. The unit was aided by an expanding value-based home care model and improved revenues derived from the company&#39;s Primary Care business.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Adjusted operating income of $394 million rose 16.9% year over year. The operating cost ratio improved 60 bps year over year to 92%.</p>
<h3>Financial Update (As of Jun 30, 2024)</h3>
<p>Humana exited the second quarter with cash and cash equivalents of $5.5 billion, which climbed 17.2% from the 2023-end level. Total assets of $50.1 billion increased 6.4% from the figure at 2023 end.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Long-term debt amounted to $11.7 billion, up 15% from the figure as of Dec 31, 2023. Short-term debt was $1.1 billion. Debt to capitalization came in at 43.6%, which deteriorated 260 bps from the prior-year comparble period.</p>
<p>Total stockholders&#39; equity of $16.7 billion grew 2.5% from the 2023-end level.&nbsp;</p>
<p>HUM generated net cash from operations of $1.6 billion in the first half of 2024, which declined more than six-fold from the prior-year comparable period.</p>
<h3>Capital Deployment Update</h3>
<p>Humana bought back shares worth $749.6 million till Jul 30, 2024. It had a leftover share repurchase capacity of $2.93 billion as of Jul 30, 2024.</p>
<h3>2024 Outlook Updated</h3>
<p>Adjusted EPS is projected to be $16, which indicates a 38.7% decline from the 2023 reported figure. GAAP EPS is estimated to be $12.81 compared with the earlier mentioned $13.93. The revised guidance implies a 36% fall from the 2023 reported figure.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Revenues are forecast to be $116 billion, up from the prior stated $113 billion. The updated outlook indicates a 9% improvement from the 2023 reported figure. The Insurance segment&#39;s revenues are estimated to be $112 billion, up from the earlier mentioned $110 billion. Revenues of the CenterWell segment, on a GAAP basis, are expected to be $19 billion.</p>
<p>Management currently projects individual Medicare Advantage membership to witness growth of around 225,000 this year while the earlier view called for the metric to witness growth of roughly 150,000 members. Group Medicare Advantage membership is still expected to increase by around 45,000 members. Membership from the Medicare stand-alone PDP is estimated to decline by around 600,000. The previous view expected the metric to witness a membership decline of around 650,000.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The benefit ratio of the Insurance unit continues to be expected around 90%. The consolidated GAAP operating cost ratio is still anticipated at approximately 11.4%.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Cash flow from operations continues to be expected around $2 billion. Meanwhile, capital expenditures are still projected to be roughly $800 million.</p>
<h3>Zacks Rank</h3>
<p>Humana currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold).</p>
<h3>Other Medical Sector Releases</h3>
<p>Of the Medical sector players that have reported second-quarter 2024 results so far, the bottom-line results of <strong>Tenet Healthcare Corporation</strong> (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/thc#NYSE">THC</a>), <strong>Universal Health Services, Inc.</strong> (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/uhs#NYSE">UHS</a>) and <strong>The Ensign Group, Inc.</strong> (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ensg#NASDAQ">ENSG</a>) beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate.</p>
<p>Tenet Healthcare reported second-quarter 2024 adjusted EPS of $2.31, which outpaced the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 22.2%. The bottom line soared 60.4% year over year.&nbsp; Net operating revenues of $5.103 billion inched up 0.4% year over year. The top line beat the consensus mark by 2.5%. Adjusted net income of $226 million climbed 46.8% year over year. Adjusted EBITDA was $945 million, which advanced 12.1% year over year. Adjusted EBITDA margin of 18.5% improved 190 bps year over year.</p>
<p>The Hospital Operations and Services segment&#39;s net operating revenues tumbled 4.3% year over year to $3.96 billion. On a same-hospital basis, net patient service revenues advanced 8.2% year over year. The Ambulatory Care segment recorded net operating revenues of $1.14 billion, which rose 21.1% year over year.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Universal Health reported second-quarter adjusted EPS of $4.31, which beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 27.9%. The bottom line rose 70.4% from the year-ago period. Net revenues amounted to $3.9 billion, which rose from $3.6 billion a year ago. The top line outpaced the consensus mark by 1.5%. Adjusted EBITDA net of NCI rose 35.9% year over year to $578.7 million. In the Acute Care Hospital Services unit, adjusted admissions (adjusted for outpatient activity) increased 3.4% year over year on a same-facility basis. Adjusted patient days rose 1.6% year over year. Net revenues stemming from Universal Health&#39;s acute care services improved 6.6% year over year on a same-facility basis.</p>
<p>In the Behavioral Health Care Services segment, adjusted admissions declined 0.4% year over year on a same-facility basis. Meanwhile, adjusted patient days increased 1.4% year over year, lower than our model estimate of 1.9%. On a same-facility basis, net revenues derived from the behavioral healthcare services of UHS increased 11% year over year.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Ensign Group reported second-quarter 2024 EPS of $1.32, which beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 2.3%. The bottom line increased 13.8% year over year. Operating revenues of $1.04 billion improved 12.5% year over year. The top line outpaced the consensus mark by 2%. Ensign Group&#39;s adjusted net income grew 15.3% year over year to $76.4 million.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Same-store occupancy improved 280 bps year over year while transitioning occupancy expanded 430 bps year over year. The Skilled Services segment&#39;s revenues rose 12.1% year over year to $991.3 million. Segment income of $122.2 million improved 4.4% year over year. Skilled nursing and campus operations of the segment totaled 272 and 29, respectively, at the second-quarter end. In the Standard Bearer unit, Rental revenues amounted to $23.4 million, which grew 17.3% year over year.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.zacks.com/stock/news/2313425/humana-hum-q2-earnings-beat-on-medicare-advantage-strength?cid=CS-BENZ-FT-analyst_blog|earnings_article-2313425">To read this article on Zacks.com click here.</a></p>


Humana Q2 Earnings Beat on Medicare Advantage Strength

<p>Throughout the last three months, 4 analysts have evaluated Ensign Group (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ENSG#NASDAQ">ENSG</a>), offering a diverse set of opinions from bullish to bearish.</p>
<p>The table below provides a concise overview of recent ratings by analysts, offering insights into the changing sentiments over the past 30 days and drawing comparisons with the preceding months for a holistic perspective.</p>
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th></th>
<th style="text-align: right;"><strong>Bullish</strong></th>
<th style="text-align: right;"><strong>Somewhat Bullish</strong></th>
<th style="text-align: right;"><strong>Indifferent</strong></th>
<th style="text-align: right;"><strong>Somewhat Bearish</strong></th>
<th style="text-align: right;"><strong>Bearish</strong></th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td><strong>Total Ratings</strong></td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">2</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">2</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Last 30D</strong></td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>1M Ago</strong></td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>2M Ago</strong></td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>3M Ago</strong></td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>The 12-month price targets assessed by analysts reveal further insights, featuring an average target of $144.75, a high estimate of $160.00, and a low estimate of $134.00. Marking an increase of 4.64%, the current average surpasses the previous average price target of $138.33. </p>
<p><img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1722438012_0.png" alt="price target chart" /></p>
<h2>Interpreting Analyst Ratings: A Closer Look</h2>
<p>In examining recent analyst actions, we gain insights into how financial experts perceive Ensign Group. The following summary outlines key analysts, their recent evaluations, and adjustments to ratings and price targets.</p>
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Analyst</th>
<th>Analyst Firm</th>
<th>Action Taken</th>
<th>Rating</th>
<th>Current Price Target</th>
<th>Prior Price Target</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>David Macdonald</td>
<td>Truist Securities</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Hold</td>
<td>$160.00</td>
<td>$150.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>David Macdonald</td>
<td>Truist Securities</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Hold</td>
<td>$150.00</td>
<td>$135.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Tao Qiu</td>
<td>Macquarie</td>
<td>Announces</td>
<td>Outperform</td>
<td>$134.00</td>
<td>-</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Michael Wiederhorn</td>
<td>Oppenheimer</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Outperform</td>
<td>$135.00</td>
<td>$130.00</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h3>Key Insights:</h3>
<ul>
<li><strong>Action Taken:</strong> Analysts respond to changes in market conditions and company performance, frequently updating their recommendations. Whether they 'Maintain', 'Raise' or 'Lower' their stance, it reflects their reaction to recent developments related to Ensign Group. This information offers a snapshot of how analysts perceive the current state of the company.</li>
<li><strong>Rating:</strong> Analyzing trends, analysts offer qualitative evaluations, ranging from 'Outperform' to 'Underperform'. These ratings convey expectations for the relative performance of Ensign Group compared to the broader market.</li>
<li><strong>Price Targets:</strong> Gaining insights, analysts provide estimates for the future value of Ensign Group's stock. This comparison reveals trends in analysts' expectations over time.</li>
</ul>
<p>Analyzing these analyst evaluations alongside relevant financial metrics can provide a comprehensive view of Ensign Group's market position. Stay informed and make data-driven decisions with the assistance of our Ratings Table.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/ENSG/analyst-ratings?utm_source=Benzinga Insights"><strong>Stay up to date on Ensign Group analyst ratings.</strong></a></p>
<h2>Delving into Ensign Group's Background</h2>
<p>Ensign Group Inc provides post-acute healthcare services in the United States. Its regional subsidiaries oversee skilled nursing, assisted living, home health and hospice, mobile ancillary, and urgent care operations. Medicare and Medicaid programs contribute a majority of revenue received for Ensign's services. The firm operates through two segments, Skilled services, and Standard Bearer. The skilled services segment includes the operation of skilled nursing facilities and rehabilitation therapy services. The Standard Bearer segment comprises of properties owned by the company through its captive REIT and leased to skilled nursing and assisted living operations. The majority of the revenue is generated from the skilled services segment.</p>
<h3>Breaking Down Ensign Group's Financial Performance</h3>
<p><strong>Market Capitalization Highlights:</strong> Above the industry average, the company's market capitalization signifies a significant scale, indicating strong confidence and market prominence.</p>
<p><strong>Revenue Growth:</strong> Ensign Group's revenue growth over a period of 3 months has been noteworthy. As of 30 June, 2024, the company achieved a revenue growth rate of approximately <strong>12.48%</strong>. This indicates a substantial increase in the company's top-line earnings. In comparison to its industry peers, the company stands out with a growth rate higher than the average among peers in the Health Care sector.</p>
<p><strong>Net Margin:</strong> Ensign Group's net margin is impressive, surpassing industry averages. With a net margin of <strong>6.85%,</strong> the company demonstrates strong profitability and effective cost management.</p>
<p><strong>Return on Equity (ROE):</strong> Ensign Group's ROE stands out, surpassing industry averages. With an impressive ROE of <strong>4.39%</strong>, the company demonstrates effective use of equity capital and strong financial performance.</p>
<p><strong>Return on Assets (ROA):</strong> The company's ROA is a standout performer, exceeding industry averages. With an impressive ROA of <strong>1.62%,</strong> the company showcases effective utilization of assets.</p>
<p><strong>Debt Management:</strong> With a below-average debt-to-equity ratio of <strong>1.18</strong>, Ensign Group adopts a prudent financial strategy, indicating a balanced approach to debt management.</p>
<h2>Analyst Ratings: What Are They?</h2>
<p>Analysts are specialists within banking and financial systems that typically report for specific stocks or within defined sectors. These people research company financial statements, sit in conference calls and meetings, and speak with relevant insiders to determine what are known as analyst ratings for stocks. Typically, analysts will rate each stock once a quarter. </p>
<p>Some analysts publish their predictions for metrics such as growth estimates, earnings, and revenue to provide additional guidance with their ratings. When using analyst ratings, it is important to keep in mind that stock and sector analysts are also human and are only offering their opinions to investors.</p>
<p>This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.</p>


<p>Truist Securities  analyst David Macdonald   maintains Ensign Group (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ENSG#NASDAQ">ENSG</a>) with a Hold and raises the price target from $150 to $160.</p>


Truist Securities Maintains Hold on Ensign Group, Raises Price Target to $160

<p>Shares of&nbsp;<strong>The Ensign Group, Inc.</strong>&nbsp;(NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ensg#NASDAQ">ENSG</a>) gained 7.2% since it reported second-quarter 2024 results on Jul 25, 2024. Strong quarterly results benefited from improved occupancy, skilled mix days, and higher skilled service revenues. However, declining cash flow from operations and a rise in overall expenses acted as a partial offset.</p>
<p>ENSG reported a second-quarter 2024 adjusted earnings per share of $1.32, which beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 2.3%. The bottom line increased 13.8% year over year.</p>
<p>Operating revenues of $1.04 billion improved 12.5% year over year in the quarter under review. The top line outpaced the consensus mark by 2%.</p>
<div class="chart_embed">
<h3>The Ensign Group, Inc. Price, Consensus and EPS Surprise</h3>
<p><img alt="The Ensign Group, Inc. Price, Consensus and EPS Surprise" src="https://staticx-tuner.zacks.com/images/charts/43/1722354138.png" style="height:265px; width:600px" title="" /></p>
<p>The Ensign Group, Inc. price-consensus-eps-surprise-chart | The Ensign Group, Inc. Quote</p>
</div>
<h3>Q2 Update</h3>
<p>Ensign Group&#39;s adjusted net income grew 15.3% year over year to $76.4 million in the second quarter and beat our estimate of $75.2 million.</p>
<p>Same-store occupancy improved 280 basis points (bps) year over year while transitioning occupancy expanded 430 bps year over year.</p>
<p>Total expenses of $950.3 million escalated 12.7 % year over year in the quarter under review and came higher than our estimate of $932.7 million. The year-over-year increase was due to higher costs of services, general and administrative expenses, and rent.</p>
<h3>Segmental Update</h3>
<p><strong>Skilled Services:</strong>&nbsp;The segment&#39;s revenues rose 12.1% year over year to $991.3 million in the second quarter. The metric beat our estimate of $983 million. The metric was supported by improved occupancy and improved patient days. Segment income of $122.2 million improved 4.4% year over year.</p>
<p>Skilled nursing and campus operations of the segment totaled 272 and 29, respectively, at the second-quarter end.</p>
<p><strong>Standard Bearer:</strong>&nbsp;Rental revenues amounted to $23.4 million, which grew 17.3% year over year and outpaced our estimate of $22.8 million. The metric was supported by rising acquisitions. Segmental income of $7.4 million rose 3.2% year over year.</p>
<p>Funds from Operations were $14.5 million in the second quarter, which improved 9.5% year over year.</p>
<h3>Financial Update (as of Jun 30, 2024)</h3>
<p>Ensign Group exited the second quarter with cash and cash equivalents of $477.3 million, which declined 6.3% from the 2023-end figure. It had a leftover capacity of $573.1 million under its line of credit at the second-quarter end.</p>
<p>Total assets of $4.4 billion rose 6.2% from the 2023-end level.</p>
<p>Long-term debt-less current maturities were $143.6 million, which declined 1.3% from the figure as of Dec 31, 2023. Current maturities of long-term debt amounted to $4 million.</p>
<p>Total equity of $1.7 billion climbed nearly 11.1% from the 2023-end figure.</p>
<p>ENSG generated net cash from operations of $112.2 million in the first half of 2024, which plunged 33.2% from the year-ago figure.</p>
<h3>Capital-Deployment Update</h3>
<p>Ensign Group did not buy back shares in the first half. During the first half of 2024, management paid dividends worth $6.8 million.</p>
<h3>2024 Outlook Raised</h3>
<p>Revenues are anticipated to lie within $4.20-$4.22 billion, the mid-point of which indicates an improvement of 12.9% from the 2023 figure of $3.73 billion.</p>
<p>Adjusted EPS is forecasted to be between $5.38 and $5.50 for 2024, the midpoint of which suggests more than 14% growth from the 2023 figure of $4.77.</p>
<p>The weighted average common shares outstanding is estimated to be around 58.5 million, and the tax rate is assumed to be 25% for 2024.</p>
<h3>Zacks Rank</h3>
<p>Ensign Group currently carries a Zacks Rank #4 (Sell).</p>
<h3>Other Medical Sector Releases</h3>
<p>Of the&nbsp;Medical&nbsp;sector players that have reported second-quarter 2024 results so far, the bottom-line results of&nbsp;<strong>UnitedHealth Group Incorporated&nbsp;</strong>(NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/unh#NYSE">UNH</a>),&nbsp;<strong>Elevance Health, Inc.&nbsp;</strong>(NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/elv#NYSE">ELV</a>), and<strong>&nbsp;HCA Healthcare, Inc.&nbsp;</strong>(NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/hca#NYSE">HCA</a>) beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate.</p>
<p>UnitedHealth Group reported a second-quarter 2024 adjusted EPS of $6.80, which beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 2.3%. The bottom line rose 10.7% year over year. Revenues amounted to $98.9 billion, which improved 6.4% year over year in the quarter under review on the back of strong performance in its UnitedHealthcare and Optum business lines. The top line outpaced the consensus mark of $98.7 billion.</p>
<p>Elevance Health reported second-quarter 2024 adjusted EPS of $10.12 per share, which outpaced the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 1.3%. The bottom line improved 12% year over year. Operating revenues of $43.2 billion dipped 0.4% year over year. However, the top line beat the consensus mark by 0.5%.</p>
<p>HCA Healthcare reported a second-quarter 2024 adjusted EPS of $5.50, which beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 10.7%. The bottom line improved 28.2% year over year. Revenues amounted to $17.5 billion, which improved 10.3% year over year in the quarter under review. The top line outpaced the consensus mark by 2.2%.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.zacks.com/stock/news/2312272/ensign-group-ensg-q2-earnings-beat-on-occupancy-stock-up-7-2?cid=CS-BENZ-FT-analyst_blog|earnings_article-2312272">To read this article on Zacks.com click here.</a></p>


streetTRACKS Dow Jones U.S. Large Cap Value Index Fund

Ensign Group Q2 Earnings Beat on Occupancy, Stock Up 7.2%

Guidance

Ensign Group Boosts Annual Revenue Guidance From $4.13B - $4.17B To $4.20B - $4.22B (Est $4.159B)

<p>Ensign Group (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ENSG#NASDAQ">ENSG</a>) reported quarterly earnings of $1.32 per share which beat the analyst consensus estimate of $1.30 by 1.54 percent. This is a 13.79 percent increase over earnings of $1.16 per share from the same period last year. &nbsp;</p>


Ensign Group Q2 2024 Adj EPS $1.32 Beats $1.30 Estimate

Russell rotation: YTD market capitalizations swelling for small-caps

Ensign Non-GAAP EPS of $1.32, revenue of $1.04B

<p><a href="https://investorplace.com">InvestorPlace - Stock Market News, Stock Advice &amp; Trading Tips</a></p>
<p><strong>Ensign Group</strong> (NASDAQ:<span><a href="https://investorplace.com/stock-quotes/ensg-stock-quote/"><strong>ENSG</strong></a></span>) just reported results for the second quarter of 2024.</p><ul><li>Ensign Group reported earnings per share of $1.32. This was above the analyst estimate for EPS of $1.30.</li><li>The company reported revenue of $1.04 billion.</li><li>This was 1.57% better than the analyst estimate for revenue of $1.02 billion.</li></ul><div><p>InvestorPlace Earnings is a project that leverages data from <a href="https://www.tradesmith.com">TradeSmith</a> to automate coverage of quarterly earnings reports. InvestorPlace Earnings distills key takeaways including earnings per share and revenue, as well as how a company stacks up to analyst estimates. These articles are published without human intervention, allowing us to inform our readers of the latest figures as quickly as possible. To report any concerns or inaccuracies, please contact us at <a href="mailto:editor@investorplace.com">editor@investorplace.com</a>.</p></div><h3>More From InvestorPlace</h3>
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									</ul><p>The post <a href="https://investorplace.com/earning-results/2024/07/ensg-stock-earnings-ensign-group-for-q2-of-2024/">ENSG Stock Earnings: Ensign Group Beats EPS, Beats Revenue for Q2 2024</a> appeared first on <a href="https://investorplace.com">InvestorPlace</a>.</p>

ENSG Stock Earnings: Ensign Group Beats EPS, Beats Revenue for Q2 2024

In a report released today, David S Macdonald from Truist Financial maintained a Hold rating on The Ensign Group (ENSG – Research Report). The comp...

Truist Financial Keeps Their Hold Rating on The Ensign Group (ENSG)

Oppenheimer analyst Michael Wiederhorn maintained a Buy rating on The Ensign Group (ENSG – Research Report) today and set a price target of $135.00...

The Ensign Group (ENSG) Receives a Rating Update from a Top Analyst

The Ensign Group, Inc. (ENSG) Q2 2024 Earnings Call Transcript

Dividend Champion, Contender, And Challenger Highlights: Week Of July 28

<p><a href="https://investorplace.com">InvestorPlace - Stock Market News, Stock Advice &amp; Trading Tips</a></p>
<p>The stock market is currently in a rotation. Traders are moving capital from aggressive growth and technology names to find safety in other sectors of the market.</p>



<p>Healthcare has been one of the beneficiaries of this switch. People tend to get sick and need medical care regardless of what&rsquo;s going on with the economy. In addition, America&rsquo;s aging demographics will invariably lead to higher healthcare spending over time.</p>



<p>While the long-term case for healthcare makes sense, valuations are starting to get out of hand across much of the sector. Especially with the upcoming presidential election which could usher in significant <a href="https://www.kff.org/compare-2024-candidates-health-care-policy/">regulatory changes</a> for the industry. The time has come for these three <a href="https://investorplace.com/industries/healthcare/">healthcare stocks</a> to sell.</p>



<h2>Ensign Group (ENSG)</h2>



<div><img width="300" height="169" src="https://investorplace.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/senior-care-1600-300x169.jpg" alt="A nurse is helping a older woman. Elder care. Senior care."><div>Source: Rido / Shutterstock</div></div><p><strong>Ensign Group</strong> (NASDAQ:<span><a href="https://investorplace.com/stock-quotes/ensg-stock-quote/"><strong>ENSG</strong></a></span>) provides skilled nursing, senior living, and rehabilitative services. Headquartered in California, the company has now expanded and serves a number of additional markets as well, primarily in Midwestern and Rocky Mountain states.</p>



<p>Ensign faced some challenging conditions during the pandemic, but it has recovered and rallied to new all-time highs. </p>



<p>Traders may be getting ahead of themselves. ENSG stock has jumped more than 40% over the past year, including a big move this summer. This has pushed the stock to more than <a href="https://seekingalpha.com/symbol/ENSG/earnings/">25 times</a> forward earnings.</p>



<p>Traditionally, skilled nursing stocks trade at low multiples given the significant risks around labor costs, government regulation, and reimbursement concerns. While Ensign is firing on all cylinders right now, ENSG stock is likely to slump once sentiment returns to more realistic levels, making it one of the healthcare stocks to sell.</p>



<h2>Eli Lilly (LLY)</h2>



<div><img width="300" height="169" src="https://investorplace.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/eli-lilly-lly-stock-sign-1600-300x169.jpg" alt="Eli Lilly (LLY) sign on corporate building with blue sky in background"><div>Source: shutterstock.com/Michael Vi</div></div><p><strong>Eli Lilly</strong> (NYSE:<span><a href="https://investorplace.com/stock-quotes/lly-stock-quote/"><strong>LLY</strong></a></span>) is one of the world&rsquo;s largest pharmaceutical companies. It has long been known for its cancer and immunology drugs.</p>



<p>However, LLY stock has gone to the stratosphere for a different reason: weight-loss drugs. The firm&rsquo;s diabetes products, such as Monjuaro and Zepbound, have become <a href="https://www.fiercepharma.com/marketing/eli-lillys-edge-over-glp-1-rivals-tipped-drive-mounjaro-sales-34b-2029">absolute blockbusters</a>. While originally intended to manage diabetes, this category of drugs, GLP-1s, also turn out to be remarkably effective in helping fight obesity.</p>



<p>Long story short, Eli Lilly&rsquo;s revenues have blasted off, rising from $25 billion in 2020 to an estimated $43 billion in 2024. Analysts see that jumping another 23% in 2025. That&rsquo;s a solid trajectory, no doubt.</p>



<p>However, LLY stock is up around 70% over the past 12 months, and has rallied more than 600% over the past five years. This is, needless to say, a far greater movement in the stock price than the company&rsquo;s fundamentals. </p>



<p>As a result, shares now shockingly trade for 55 times forward earnings. This sort of valuation almost never works out well for a healthcare stock.</p>



<h2>McKesson (MCK)</h2>



<div><img width="300" height="169" src="https://investorplace.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/mck-1600-300x169.jpg" alt="McKesson headquarters in Irving, TX"><div>Source: JHVEPhoto / Shutterstock.com</div></div><p><strong>McKesson</strong> (NYSE:<span><a href="https://investorplace.com/stock-quotes/mck-stock-quote/"><strong>MCK</strong></a></span>) is one of America&rsquo;s three dominant drug distribution firms. These are the companies that interface between pharmaceutical companies, pharmacies, and insurers to stitch together the drug supply chain.</p>



<p>These are exceptionally low profit margin businesses, earning just a couple of percent profits, albeit on hundreds of billions of dollars a year in revenues. </p>



<p>Right now, investors are enthused about McKesson&rsquo;s prospects. It is riding the GLP-1 drug boom to strong top-line growth.</p>



<p>But the future outlook is tenuous. Politicians are looking for ways to lower drug costs, which could hammer McKesson&rsquo;s business model, especially in an election year. A shift toward mail-order pharmacies could also slow down growth.</p>



<p>MCK stock is up 45% over the past 12 months, pushing it far past fair value. Morningstar&rsquo;s Keonhee Kim believes the stock is worth just <a href="https://www.morningstar.com/stocks/xnys/mck/quote">$460 per share</a> as opposed to today&rsquo;s $615 quotation.</p>



<p><em>On the date of publication, Ian Bezek did not have (either directly or indirectly) any positions in the securities mentioned in this article. The opinions expressed in this article are those of the writer, subject to the InvestorPlace.com <a href="https://investorplace.com/corporate/investorplace-publishing-guidelines/">Publishing Guidelines</a>.</em></p>



<p><em>On the date of publication, the responsible editor did not have (either directly or<br>indirectly) any positions in the securities mentioned in this article.</em></p>
<div><p>Ian Bezek has written more than 1,000 articles for InvestorPlace.com and Seeking Alpha. He also worked as a Junior Analyst for Kerrisdale Capital, a $300 million New York City-based hedge fund. You can reach him on Twitter at @irbezek.</p></div><h3>More From InvestorPlace</h3>
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<p>The post <a href="https://investorplace.com/2024/08/3-healthcare-stocks-to-sell-in-august-before-they-crash-burn/">3 Healthcare Stocks to Sell in August Before They Crash &amp; Burn</a> appeared first on <a href="https://investorplace.com">InvestorPlace</a>.</p>

3 Healthcare Stocks to Sell in August Before They Crash & Burn

The Ensign Group adds new operations in Kansas and Colorado

Ensign declares $0.06 dividend

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Press Releases

The Ensign Group Adds Another Skilled Nursing Facility in Colorado

The Ensign Group, Inc. Declares Quarterly Dividend of $0.06 Per Share

The Ensign Group Schedules Second Quarter Earnings Call for Friday, July 26, 2024

The Ensign Group Reports Second Quarter 2024 Results; Raises Annual Earnings and Revenue Guidance

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Ensign Group

Ensign Group (ENSG) Forecast

Ensign Group (NASDAQ:ENSG) Stock, Quote.Headers.trade-ideas