Humana (NYSE:HUM) Stock, Quote.Headers.trade-ideas

Humana

Humana is one of the largest private health insurers in the us with a focus on administering Medicare Advantage plans. The firm has built a niche specializing in government-sponsored programs, with nearly all its medical membership stemming from individual and group Medicare Advantage, Medicaid, and the military's Tricare program. The firm is also a leader in stand-alone prescription drug plans for seniors enrolled in traditional fee-for-service Medicare. Beyond medical insurance, the company provides other healthcare services, including primary-care services, at-home services, and pharmacy benefit management.

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TD Cowen analyst Gary Taylor maintains Humana (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HUM#NYSE">HUM</a>) with a Buy and raises the price target from $396 to $407.

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TD Cowen Maintains Buy on Humana, Raises Price Target to $407

Investors with significant funds have taken a bullish position in Humana (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HUM#NYSE">HUM</a>), a development that retail traders should be aware of.
This was brought to our attention today through our monitoring of publicly accessible options data at Benzinga. The exact nature of these investors remains a mystery, but such a major move in HUM usually indicates foreknowledge of upcoming events.
Today, Benzinga's options scanner identified 9 options transactions for Humana. This is an unusual occurrence. The sentiment among these large-scale traders is mixed, with 55% being bullish and 33% bearish. Of all the options we discovered, 8 are puts, valued at $395,727, and there was a single call, worth $32,250.
<h3>Projected Price Targets</h3>
Taking into account the Volume and Open Interest on these contracts, it appears that whales have been targeting a price range from $370.0 to $390.0 for Humana over the last 3 months. 
<h3>Insights into Volume &amp; Open Interest</h3>
Looking at the volume and open interest is an insightful way to conduct due diligence on a stock.
This data can help you track the liquidity and interest for Humana's options for a given strike price.
Below, we can observe the evolution of the volume and open interest of calls and puts, respectively, for all of Humana's whale activity within a strike price range from $370.0 to $390.0 in the last 30 days. 
<h3>Humana Option Activity Analysis: Last 30 Days</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1721838684_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" />
<h3>Significant Options Trades Detected:</h3>

<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Ask</th>
<th>Bid</th>
<th>Price</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Open Interest</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>HUM</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>07/26/24</td>
<td>$7.7</td>
<td>$7.6</td>
<td>$7.7</td>
<td>$387.50</td>
<td>$73.9K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">510</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">103</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>HUM</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>07/26/24</td>
<td>$5.6</td>
<td>$4.7</td>
<td>$4.7</td>
<td>$382.50</td>
<td>$55.9K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">23</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">367</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>HUM</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>07/26/24</td>
<td>$4.1</td>
<td>$4.0</td>
<td>$4.0</td>
<td>$382.50</td>
<td>$52.4K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">23</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">131</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>HUM</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>07/26/24</td>
<td>$6.7</td>
<td>$6.0</td>
<td>$6.0</td>
<td>$387.50</td>
<td>$52.2K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">510</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">414</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>HUM</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>07/26/24</td>
<td>$7.2</td>
<td>$6.8</td>
<td>$7.2</td>
<td>$387.50</td>
<td>$48.9K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">510</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">201</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h3>About Humana</h3>
Humana is one of the largest private health insurers in the us with a focus on administering Medicare Advantage plans. The firm has built a niche specializing in government-sponsored programs, with nearly all its medical membership stemming from individual and group Medicare Advantage, Medicaid, and the military's Tricare program. The firm is also a leader in stand-alone prescription drug plans for seniors enrolled in traditional fee-for-service Medicare. Beyond medical insurance, the company provides other healthcare services, including primary-care services, at-home services, and pharmacy benefit management.
Having examined the options trading patterns of Humana, our attention now turns directly to the company. This shift allows us to delve into its present market position and performance
<h3>Current Position of Humana</h3>
<ul>
<li>With a volume of 289,293, the price of HUM is up 0.1% at $386.24. </li>
<li>RSI indicators hint that the underlying stock may be approaching overbought.</li>
<li>Next earnings are expected to be released in 7 days.</li>
</ul>
<h3>What Analysts Are Saying About Humana</h3>
3 market experts have recently issued ratings for this stock, with a consensus target price of $384.0.
<ul>
<li>An analyst from Piper Sandler downgraded its action to Overweight with a price target of $392. </li>
<li>An analyst from Truist Securities persists with their Hold rating on Humana, maintaining a target price of $400. </li>
<li>In a cautious move, an analyst from Cantor Fitzgerald downgraded its rating to Neutral, setting a price target of $360. </li>
</ul>
Trading options involves greater risks but also offers the potential for higher profits. Savvy traders mitigate these risks through ongoing education, strategic trade adjustments, utilizing various indicators, and staying attuned to market dynamics. Keep up with the latest options trades for Humana with <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a> for real-time alerts.

Options

Smart Money Is Betting Big In HUM Options

Cantor Fitzgerald analyst Sarah James reiterates Humana (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HUM#NYSE">HUM</a>) with a Neutral and maintains $360 price target.

Reiteration

Cantor Fitzgerald Reiterates Neutral on Humana, Maintains $360 Price Target

Healthcare investors are expecting Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/insights/analyst-ratings/24/06/39499483/what-analysts-are-saying-about-cigna-group-stock">to ease regulations</a> on Medicare Advantage if the former president wins and returns to the White House.
Under the Biden administration, the Centers for Medicare &amp; Medicaid Services has hardened its stance on the program after it faced criticism for insurers overbilling the government and denying care to seniors too many times, the Wall Street Journal <a href="https://www.wsj.com/health/healthcare/would-trump-ease-up-on-medicare-wall-street-thinks-so-6e9ac0c0?mod=lead_feature_below_a_pos1">reported</a>.
Republicans tend to favor privatizing government services and have been friendlier to Medicare Advantage plans, a trend that investors are betting could continue under a second Trump administration.&nbsp;
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/24/07/39814804/unitedhealth-analysts-boost-their-forecasts-following-upbeat-earnings">UnitedHealth Analysts Boost Their Forecasts Following Upbeat Earnings</a>
Regulatory easing on Medicare Advantage could also rekindle talks on possible mergers between health insurers. The Cigna Group (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CI#NYSE">CI</a>) and Humana Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HUM#NYSE">HUM</a>) have discussed merging, but they backed away from the deal over antitrust issues and worries over Medicare, the Journal reported in November.
Price Action: The health insurance sector gave mixed results on Wall Street. United Healthcare Group Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UNH#NYSE">UNH</a>) gained 4.44% to $573.28, while Elevance Health, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ELV#NYSE">ELV</a>) dropped 5.95% to $520.21 and Cigna rose 1.49% to $344.76 on Wednesday.
Exchange-traded funds that hold health insurer stocks, however, trended upward.
<ul>
<li>iShares U.S. Healthcare Providers ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IHF#NYSE">IHF</a>) edged up 0.11%</li>
<li>The Health Care Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLV#NYSE">XLV</a>) went up 0.45% </li>
<li>Global X Dow 30 Covered Call &amp; Growth ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DYLG#NYSE">DYLG</a>) inched up 0.25%</li>
<li>SPDR Dow Jones Industrial Average ETF Trust (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DIA#NYSE">DIA</a>) gained 0.55%</li>
<li> iShares U.S. Healthcare ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IYH#NYSE">IYH</a>) ticked up 0.33%.</li>
</ul>
Read Now:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/insights/analyst-ratings/24/07/39780960/what-analysts-are-saying-about-humana-stock">What Analysts Are Saying About Humana Stock</a></li>
</ul>
Image created using artificial intelligence via Midjourney.

High-rolling investors have positioned themselves bearish on Humana (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HUM#NYSE">HUM</a>), and it's important for retail traders to take note. 
\This activity came to our attention today through Benzinga's tracking of publicly available options data. The identities of these investors are uncertain, but such a significant move in HUM often signals that someone has privileged information.
Today, Benzinga's options scanner spotted 25 options trades for Humana. This is not a typical pattern.
The sentiment among these major traders is split, with 36% bullish and 44% bearish. Among all the options we identified, there was one put, amounting to $27,540, and 24 calls, totaling $1,827,812.
<h3>Projected Price Targets</h3>
Based on the trading activity, it appears that the significant investors are aiming for a price territory stretching from $340.0 to $500.0 for Humana over the recent three months. 
<h3>Volume &amp; Open Interest Trends</h3>
Looking at the volume and open interest is a powerful move while trading options. This data can help you track the liquidity and interest for Humana's options for a given strike price. Below, we can observe the evolution of the volume and open interest of calls and puts, respectively, for all of Humana's whale trades within a strike price range from $340.0 to $500.0 in the last 30 days. 
<h3>Humana 30-Day Option Volume &amp; Interest Snapshot</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1721244678_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" />
<h3>Significant Options Trades Detected:</h3>

<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Ask</th>
<th>Bid</th>
<th>Price</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Open Interest</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>HUM</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>07/26/24</td>
<td>$30.2</td>
<td>$28.0</td>
<td>$28.3</td>
<td>$370.00</td>
<td>$141.2K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">304</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>HUM</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>07/26/24</td>
<td>$29.5</td>
<td>$26.3</td>
<td>$27.38</td>
<td>$370.00</td>
<td>$136.9K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">304</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">150</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>HUM</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>07/26/24</td>
<td>$29.5</td>
<td>$26.2</td>
<td>$27.0</td>
<td>$370.00</td>
<td>$135.4K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">304</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">200</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>HUM</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>07/26/24</td>
<td>$30.7</td>
<td>$25.3</td>
<td>$27.0</td>
<td>$370.00</td>
<td>$135.0K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">304</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">250</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>HUM</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>11/15/24</td>
<td>$59.5</td>
<td>$58.2</td>
<td>$59.5</td>
<td>$360.00</td>
<td>$130.9K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">96</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">2</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h3>About Humana</h3>
Humana is one of the largest private health insurers in the us with a focus on administering Medicare Advantage plans. The firm has built a niche specializing in government-sponsored programs, with nearly all its medical membership stemming from individual and group Medicare Advantage, Medicaid, and the military's Tricare program. The firm is also a leader in stand-alone prescription drug plans for seniors enrolled in traditional fee-for-service Medicare. Beyond medical insurance, the company provides other healthcare services, including primary-care services, at-home services, and pharmacy benefit management.
<h3>Where Is Humana Standing Right Now?</h3>
<ul>
<li>With a trading volume of 1,318,296, the price of HUM is up by 1.97%, reaching $403.41.</li>
<li>Current RSI values indicate that the stock is may be overbought.</li>
<li>Next earnings report is scheduled for 14 days from now.</li>
</ul>
<h3>What Analysts Are Saying About Humana</h3>
A total of 3 professional analysts have given their take on this stock in the last 30 days, setting an average price target of $388.6666666666667.
<ul>
<li>In a cautious move, an analyst from Piper Sandler downgraded its rating to Overweight, setting a price target of $392. </li>
<li>An analyst from Morgan Stanley downgraded its action to Equal-Weight with a price target of $374. </li>
<li>An analyst from Truist Securities persists with their Hold rating on Humana, maintaining a target price of $400. </li>
</ul>
Options are a riskier asset compared to just trading the stock, but they have higher profit potential. Serious options traders manage this risk by educating themselves daily, scaling in and out of trades, following more than one indicator, and following the markets closely.
If you want to stay updated on the latest options trades for Humana, <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a> gives you real-time options trades alerts.

Humana Unusual Options Activity For July 17

Elevance Health Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ELV#NYSE">ELV</a>) reported second-quarter revenues of $43.2 billion, down 0.4% year-over-year, marginally above the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/calendars/earnings" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">consensus of $43.05 billion</a>. 
The decrease was driven by attrition in Medicaid membership, partially offset by higher premium yields reflecting the medical cost trend and growth in CarelonRx product revenue <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/24/07/b39810749/elevance-health-reports-second-quarter-2024-results" rel="noreferrer noopener">related to members served</a>.
Related: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/06/39463362/morgan-stanley-says-elevance-healths-growth-attributed-to-consistent-performance-bu" rel="noreferrer noopener">Morgan Stanley Says Elevance Health&#8217;s Growth Attributed To Consistent Performance But Undervalued</a>.
Premiums fell 3.2% to $35.42 billion, and product revenue rose 14% to $5.53 billion. Services fees increased 18% to $2.28 billion.
&#8220;Second quarter results reflect the power of our diversified business and thoughtful execution of our strategic initiatives during a dynamic time for our industry, as we remain steadfast in our purpose to improve the health of humanity. We have prudently maintained our full-year outlook and are confident in the earnings power of our Health Benefits and Carelon businesses, which underpin our long-term targets,&#8221; said Gail Boudreaux, President and CEO.
Profit rose 24% to $2.3 billion, or $9.85 a share. Per-share adjusted earnings reached $10.12, beating consensus of $10.01.
The benefit expense ratio was 86.3%, an improvement of 10 basis points, driven primarily by premium rate adjustments to cover medical cost trends in the Health Benefits business and disciplined commercial underwriting.
Medical membership totaled approximately 45.8 million, a decrease of 5% compared to the prior year quarter, driven by attrition in Medicaid business associated with eligibility redeterminations and footprint adjustments, primarily in the first quarter.
Medicaid enrollment dropped 23% to 9 million in the second quarter compared to 11.7 million a year ago.
These losses were partially offset by growth in Affordable Care Act health plans and commercial Employer Group fee-based membership.
Reuters notes that Unlike rivals UnitedHealth Group Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UNH#NYSE">UNH</a>) and Humana Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HUM#NYSE">HUM</a>), Elevance is less exposed to government-backed Medicare Advantage plans for people aged 65 and older and banks more on commercial and Medicaid health plans.
Operating revenue at its Carelon division was $13.3 billion, up by 10% year-over-year.
Guidance: Elevance Health expects GAAP net income per diluted share of at least $34.05 in 2024 and reaffirms adjusted EPS guidance of at least $37.20 versus <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/24/04/38315332/elevance-health-clocks-2-2b-q1-net-profit-despite-21-drop-in-medicaid-enrollment-lifts-annual-guida" rel="noreferrer noopener">consensus Of $37.28</a>.
Price Action: ELV shares are down 3.82% at $532.00 during the premarket session on the last check Wednesday.
Image: Shutterstock/ REDPIXEL.PL
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</ul>

WIIM

ALHC

Shares of health insurers are trading higher in sympathy with UnitedHealth, which gained following strong Q2 earnings.

In the preceding three months, 11 analysts have released ratings for Humana (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HUM#NYSE">HUM</a>), presenting a wide array of perspectives from bullish to bearish.
The table below summarizes their recent ratings, showcasing the evolving sentiments within the past 30 days and comparing them to the preceding months.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th></th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Bullish</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Somewhat Bullish</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Indifferent</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Somewhat Bearish</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Bearish</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Total Ratings</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">3</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">7</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Last 30D</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>1M Ago</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>
<tr>
<td>2M Ago</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">3</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3M Ago</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</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>
</tbody>
</table>
In the assessment of 12-month price targets, analysts unveil insights for Humana, presenting an average target of $369.64, a high estimate of $400.00, and a low estimate of $326.00. A 2.18% drop is evident in the current average compared to the previous average price target of $377.88. 
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1721073653_0.png" alt="price target chart" />
<h2>Analyzing Analyst Ratings: A Detailed Breakdown</h2>
The analysis of recent analyst actions sheds light on the perception of Humana by financial experts. The following summary presents key analysts, their recent evaluations, and adjustments to ratings and price targets.
<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>$400.00</td>
<td>$355.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jessica Tassan</td>
<td>Piper Sandler</td>
<td>Announces</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
<td>$392.00</td>
<td>-</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Erin Wright</td>
<td>Morgan Stanley</td>
<td>Announces</td>
<td>Equal-Weight</td>
<td>$374.00</td>
<td>-</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Sarah James</td>
<td>Cantor Fitzgerald</td>
<td>Maintains</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$360.00</td>
<td>$360.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Michael Ha</td>
<td>Baird</td>
<td>Announces</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$374.00</td>
<td>-</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kevin Fischbeck</td>
<td>B of A Securities</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$376.00</td>
<td>$342.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Frank Morgan</td>
<td>RBC Capital</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Outperform</td>
<td>$353.00</td>
<td>$415.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kevin Caliendo</td>
<td>UBS</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$326.00</td>
<td>$334.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Sarah James</td>
<td>Cantor Fitzgerald</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$360.00</td>
<td>$391.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Michael Wiederhorn</td>
<td>Oppenheimer</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Outperform</td>
<td>$370.00</td>
<td>$415.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>David Windley</td>
<td>Jefferies</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$381.00</td>
<td>$411.00</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h3>Key Insights:</h3>
<ul>
<li>Action Taken: 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 Humana. This information provides a snapshot of how analysts perceive the current state of the company.</li>
<li>Rating: Gaining insights, analysts provide qualitative assessments, ranging from 'Outperform' to 'Underperform'. These ratings reflect expectations for the relative performance of Humana compared to the broader market.</li>
<li>Price Targets: Analysts navigate through adjustments in price targets, providing estimates for Humana's future value. Comparing current and prior targets offers insights into analysts' evolving expectations.</li>
</ul>
For valuable insights into Humana's market performance, consider these analyst evaluations alongside crucial financial indicators. Stay well-informed and make prudent decisions using our Ratings Table.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/HUM/analyst-ratings?utm_source=Benzinga Insights">Stay up to date on Humana analyst ratings.</a>
<h2>Discovering Humana: A Closer Look</h2>
Humana is one of the largest private health insurers in the us with a focus on administering Medicare Advantage plans. The firm has built a niche specializing in government-sponsored programs, with nearly all its medical membership stemming from individual and group Medicare Advantage, Medicaid, and the military's Tricare program. The firm is also a leader in stand-alone prescription drug plans for seniors enrolled in traditional fee-for-service Medicare. Beyond medical insurance, the company provides other healthcare services, including primary-care services, at-home services, and pharmacy benefit management.
<h3>Humana: Delving into Financials</h3>
Market Capitalization: Indicating a reduced size compared to industry averages, the company's market capitalization poses unique challenges.
Revenue Growth: Humana displayed positive results in 3 months. As of 31 March, 2024, the company achieved a solid revenue growth rate of approximately 10.73%. This indicates a notable increase in the company's top-line earnings. In comparison to its industry peers, the company trails behind with a growth rate lower than the average among peers in the Health Care sector.
Net Margin: Humana's financial strength is reflected in its exceptional net margin, which exceeds industry averages. With a remarkable net margin of 2.5%, the company showcases strong profitability and effective cost management.
Return on Equity (ROE): Humana's financial strength is reflected in its exceptional ROE, which exceeds industry averages. With a remarkable ROE of 4.58%, the company showcases efficient use of equity capital and strong financial health.
Return on Assets (ROA): Humana's ROA stands out, surpassing industry averages. With an impressive ROA of 1.53%, the company demonstrates effective utilization of assets and strong financial performance.
Debt Management: The company faces challenges in debt management with a debt-to-equity ratio higher than the industry average. With a ratio of 0.82, caution is advised due to increased financial risk.
<h2>The Basics of Analyst Ratings</h2>
Within the domain of banking and financial systems, analysts specialize in reporting for specific stocks or defined sectors. Their work involves attending company conference calls and meetings, researching company financial statements, and communicating with insiders to publish "analyst ratings" for stocks. Analysts typically assess and rate each stock once per quarter.
Some analysts also offer predictions for helpful metrics such as earnings, revenue, and growth estimates to provide further guidance as to what to do with certain tickers. It is important to keep in mind that while stock and sector analysts are specialists, they are also human and can only forecast their beliefs to traders.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

What Analysts Are Saying About Humana Stock

Truist Securities analyst David Macdonald maintains Humana (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HUM#NYSE">HUM</a>) with a Hold and raises the price target from $355 to $400.

Truist Securities Maintains Hold on Humana, Raises Price Target to $400

Shares of several health insurance stocks are trading higher following the attempted assassination of Donald Trump, which has lifted stocks that could benefit from a Trump presidency on Monday.

UnitedHealth Group Incorporated (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/unh#NYSE">UNH</a>) is set to report second-quarter 2024 results on Jul 16, 2024, before the opening bell. Growing premiums, commercial memberships and Optum business are expected to have supported its performance.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for second-quarter earnings is currently pegged at $6.68 per share, implying solid growth of 8.8% from the year-ago reported number. However, the estimate was revised downward by two analysts in the past month, resulting in a decline of 2 cents from $6.70 per share. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for second-quarter revenues is currently pegged at almost $99 billion, suggesting a 6.5% uptick from the year-ago actuals.
<img alt="Zacks Investment Research" src="https://staticx-tuner.zacks.com/images/articles/charts/a2/71242.jpg?v=1909892501" style="border-style:solid; border-width:1px; height:311px; width:600px" />
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
UnitedHealth has a robust history of surpassing earnings estimates, beating the consensus in each of the last four quarters, with the average being 3.7%
<img alt="Zacks Investment Research" src="https://staticx-tuner.zacks.com/images/articles/charts/22/71244.jpg?v=129735182" style="border-style:solid; border-width:1px; height:232px; width:600px" />
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
<h3>Q2 Earnings Whispers</h3>
Our proven model predicts an earnings beat for the company this time around as well. UNH has an Earnings ESP of +1.06% as the Most Accurate Estimate of $6.76 per share is currently pegged higher than the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $6.68. Also, it currently has a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). The combination of a positive Earnings ESP and a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), 2 (Buy) or 3 increases the chances of an earnings beat, which is precisely the case here.
<h3>Factors Shaping Q2 Results</h3>
UnitedHealth&#39;s second-quarter earnings are expected to have benefited from higher premiums, driven by the expansion of its commercial membership base. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for premium revenues for the second quarter indicates 6.3% year-over-year growth, whereas our model estimate predicts a 5.9% increase. Increased contributions from both Optum Health and its health benefits divisions are expected to have supported premium growth.
UNH&#39;s second-quarter top-line performance is expected to have been enhanced by a rise in service revenues across the board. The consensus estimate implies an almost 7% jump in service revenues. Similarly, we expect product revenues to have seen more than 8% year-over-year growth, while the Zacks Consensus Estimate indicates an above 9% increase.
Now let&#39;s focus on memberships in selected programs. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for UnitedHealthcare&#39;s total domestic commercial customers suggests 3% year-over-year growth. The consensus mark for Medicare Advantage members indicates a 3.6% year-over-year rise, whereas our estimate implies a 3.4% gain.
However, the consensus estimate for Medicaid memberships implies an 8.8% decline from the year-ago level, while our model estimate suggests an 8.5% slip. Also, both the consensus mark and our model estimate for international memberships indicate close to a 60% year-over-year plunge. This is likely to have pulled total memberships down from the year-ago period. While we estimate the decline to be nearly 5%, the consensus estimate implies an almost 4% fall.
We expect higher contributions from each of the sub-segments of the Optum business segment in the second quarter. A rise in the number of people being catered to in value-based care arrangements, enhanced technology-enabled offerings and growth in its specialty and community-based pharmacy offerings are major tailwinds.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for operating income from the Optum business segment suggests a 15.7% year-over-year increase, while the same from UnitedHealthcare indicates nearly 2% growth. These are expected to have positioned the company for not only year-over-year growth but also an earnings beat in the second quarter.
However, rising medical and operating costs are expected to have elevated UnitedHealth&#39;s overall expenses in the quarter. The expected growth in healthcare utilization, especially in the Medicare Advantage space, might have affected margins. Additionally, seniors resuming elective procedures are expected to have raised medical costs.We expect higher costs of products sold to have further reduced its margins. Our model estimate for total operating costs indicates an almost 7% increase from the prior-year period.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for UNH&#39;s medical care ratio is pegged at 84.22%, up from 83.20% in the year-ago quarter. Our estimates for medical costs and costs of products soldindicate 7.4% and 11.7% year-over-year increases, respectively.
Also, Optum survived a blow from a cyber-attack on its Change Healthcare business in the first quarter and was estimated to take a hit of around $1.6 billion. The company expects to incur direct response costs in the range of 85-95 cents per share for full-year 2024, along with a business disruption impact of 30-40 cents. These factors are expected to have partially affected its profit growth levels in the second quarter.
<h3>Price Performance &amp; Valuation</h3>
UnitedHealth&#39;s stock has exhibited a downward movement, shedding a notable percentage over the year-to-date period. It has declined 4.2% compared with the industry&#39;s fall of 4.8%. A similar movement was witnessed by some of its peers like Humana Inc. (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/hum#NYSE">HUM</a>) and Molina Healthcare, Inc. (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/moh#NYSE">MOH</a>), which have plunged 17% and 19.7%, respectively, during this time. Additionally, these stocks have lagged the S&amp;P 500 significantly, which rallied 18.8% during the same period.
<h3>YTD Price Performance</h3>
<img alt="Zacks Investment Research" src="https://staticx-tuner.zacks.com/images/articles/charts/bf/71245.jpg?v=1146002895" style="border-style:solid; border-width:1px; height:321px; width:602px" />
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Now, let&#39;s look at the value UnitedHealth offers investors at current levels.
The company&#39;s valuation looks somewhat stretched compared with the industry average. Currently, UNH is trading at 17.22X forward 12 months earnings, above the industry&#39;s average of 15.16X.
<img alt="Zacks Investment Research" src="https://staticx-tuner.zacks.com/images/articles/charts/0a/71246.jpg?v=1526282644" style="border-style:solid; border-width:1px; height:301px; width:601px" />
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
In comparison, Humana is even less attractively valued, trading at 20.99X forward 12 months earnings. Molina Healthcare, on the other hand, is trading at 11.48X, offering a better value at the moment.
<h3>Investment Thesis: Hold The Line</h3>
UnitedHealth&#39;s diversified portfolio and strategic growth initiatives in home healthcare, commercialbusiness and AI-driven analytics offer promising long-term growth prospects. Its estimated earnings growth rate of 12.3% for the next five years compares favorably with the industry average of 11.6%. The company continues to reward shareholders with substantial dividends and share repurchases, underpinned by strong cash flow and operational resilience. However, challenges such as the impacts of the recent cyber-attack, regulatory investigations, margin pressures due to lower-than-expected Medicare rates and rising medical costs could limit short-term stock performance. Investors should closely monitor these factors.
<h3>Conclusion</h3>
UnitedHealth remains a strong candidate for a &quot;Hold&quot; position. While its long-term prospects are promising, investors should avoid rushing to buy the stock. Instead, they should closely monitor developments to identify a more appropriate entry point, as a hasty decision could negatively impact portfolio gains. Those already holding UNH stock can maintain their position, as the upcoming earnings report is expected to reaffirm the company&#39;s strong operational performance.
<a href="https://www.zacks.com/stock/news/2300949/unitedhealth-unh-pre-q2-earnings-healthy-buy-or-a-wait-see?cid=CS-BENZ-FT-analyst_blog|most_popular_stocks-2300949">To read this article on Zacks.com click here.</a>

UnitedHealth Pre-Q2 Earnings: Healthy Buy or a Wait-&-See?

Humana (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HUM#NYSE">HUM</a>) has outperformed the market over the past 20 years by 8.18% on an annualized basis producing an average annual return of 16.6%. Currently, Humana has a market capitalization of $45.73 billion. 
Buying $100 In HUM: If an investor had bought $100 of HUM stock 20 years ago, it would be worth $2,206.34 today based on a price of $379.49 for HUM at the time of writing.
<h3>Humana's Performance Over Last 20 Years</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1720800045_0.png" alt="comp_fig" />
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.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

If You Invested $100 In This Stock 20 Years Ago, You Would Have $2,200 Today

Financial giants have made a conspicuous bearish move on Humana. Our analysis of options history for Humana (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HUM#NYSE">HUM</a>) revealed 11 unusual trades.
Delving into the details, we found 36% of traders were bullish, while 45% showed bearish tendencies. Out of all the trades we spotted, 5 were puts, with a value of $181,110, and 6 were calls, valued at $691,180.
<h3>Expected Price Movements</h3>
Analyzing the Volume and Open Interest in these contracts, it seems that the big players have been eyeing a price window from $362.5 to $430.0 for Humana during the past quarter. 
<h3>Volume &amp; Open Interest Trends</h3>
Looking at the volume and open interest is an insightful way to conduct due diligence on a stock.
This data can help you track the liquidity and interest for Humana's options for a given strike price.
Below, we can observe the evolution of the volume and open interest of calls and puts, respectively, for all of Humana's whale activity within a strike price range from $362.5 to $430.0 in the last 30 days. 
<h3>Humana 30-Day Option Volume &amp; Interest Snapshot</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1720637247_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" />
<h3>Largest Options Trades Observed:</h3>

<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Ask</th>
<th>Bid</th>
<th>Price</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Open Interest</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>HUM</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>07/19/24</td>
<td>$6.7</td>
<td>$6.0</td>
<td>$6.0</td>
<td>$375.00</td>
<td>$450.0K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">204</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>HUM</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$42.6</td>
<td>$39.4</td>
<td>$39.4</td>
<td>$430.00</td>
<td>$110.3K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">7</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>HUM</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>08/16/24</td>
<td>$9.6</td>
<td>$9.2</td>
<td>$9.2</td>
<td>$390.00</td>
<td>$53.3K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">202</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">10</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>HUM</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$41.6</td>
<td>$40.2</td>
<td>$40.91</td>
<td>$400.00</td>
<td>$40.9K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">568</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>HUM</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$42.8</td>
<td>$39.4</td>
<td>$40.9</td>
<td>$400.00</td>
<td>$40.9K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">568</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">10</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h3>About Humana</h3>
Humana is one of the largest private health insurers in the us with a focus on administering Medicare Advantage plans. The firm has built a niche specializing in government-sponsored programs, with nearly all its medical membership stemming from individual and group Medicare Advantage, Medicaid, and the military's Tricare program. The firm is also a leader in stand-alone prescription drug plans for seniors enrolled in traditional fee-for-service Medicare. Beyond medical insurance, the company provides other healthcare services, including primary-care services, at-home services, and pharmacy benefit management.
Following our analysis of the options activities associated with Humana, we pivot to a closer look at the company's own performance.
<h3>Humana's Current Market Status</h3>
<ul>
<li>Trading volume stands at 370,960, with HUM's price up by 0.92%, positioned at $376.79.</li>
<li>RSI indicators show the stock to be may be approaching overbought.</li>
<li>Earnings announcement expected in 21 days.</li>
</ul>
<h3>What The Experts Say On Humana</h3>
Over the past month, 3 industry analysts have shared their insights on this stock, proposing an average target price of $375.3333333333333.
<ul>
<li>In a cautious move, an analyst from Morgan Stanley downgraded its rating to Equal-Weight, setting a price target of $374. </li>
<li>Reflecting concerns, an analyst from Cantor Fitzgerald lowers its rating to Neutral with a new price target of $360.</li>
<li>In a cautious move, an analyst from Piper Sandler downgraded its rating to Overweight, setting a price target of $392. </li>
</ul>
Options are a riskier asset compared to just trading the stock, but they have higher profit potential. Serious options traders manage this risk by educating themselves daily, scaling in and out of trades, following more than one indicator, and following the markets closely.
If you want to stay updated on the latest options trades for Humana, <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a> gives you real-time options trades alerts.

Humana's Options Frenzy: What You Need to Know

The U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has highlighted significant concerns regarding consolidating pharmacies and health insurance companies, focusing on the influence of a few dominant pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) on prescription drug prices.
An <a target="_blank" href="https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2024/07/ftc-releases-interim-staff-report-prescription-drug-middlemen" rel="noreferrer noopener">interim report</a> suggests that these PBMs have amassed considerable profits at the expense of independent pharmacies and consumers.
The interim staff report, part of an ongoing inquiry launched in 2022 by the FTC, details how increasing vertical integration and concentration has enabled the six largest PBMs to manage nearly 95% of all prescriptions filled in the U.S.
Related: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/large-cap/24/05/38943653/unitedhealths-optumrx-unveils-new-transparent-drug-pricing-initiative-for-2024" rel="noreferrer noopener">UnitedHealth&#8217;s OptumRx Unveils New Transparent Drug Pricing Initiative for 2024</a>.
The FTC&#8217;s <a target="_blank" href="https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2024/07/ftc-releases-interim-staff-report-prescription-drug-middlemen" rel="noreferrer noopener">report</a> reveals that the three largest PBMs—UnitedHealth Group Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UNH#NYSE">UNH</a>) through its Optum unit, CVS Health Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CVS#NYSE">CVS</a>) via CVS Caremark, and Cigna Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CI#NYSE">CI</a>) through Express Scripts—manage 79% of U.S. prescription drug claims.
The other three players include Humana Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HUM#NYSE">HUM</a>), MedImpact, and 19 BlueCross BlueShield plans.
Over the past 20 years, pharmacy benefit services have become increasingly concentrated. In 2004, the report added that the top three PBMs served a combined 190 million people and managed 52% of prescription drug claims.
&#8220;The FTC&#8217;s interim <a target="_blank" href="https://www.ftc.gov/system/files/ftc_gov/pdf/pharmacy-benefit-managers-staff-report.pdf" rel="noreferrer noopener">report</a> lays out how dominant pharmacy benefit managers can hike the cost of drugs—including overcharging patients for cancer drugs,&#8221; said FTC Chair Lina Khan.
&#8220;The report also details how PBMs can squeeze independent pharmacies that many Americans—especially those in rural communities—depend on for essential care.&#8221;
Evidence suggests that as PBMs become more concentrated, they gain leverage to establish contracts that disadvantage smaller, independent pharmacies.
These contracts often lack transparency regarding total payment amounts, making it difficult for pharmacists to determine compensation.
The FTC report noted that PBMs and brand drug manufacturers negotiate prescription drug rebates, sometimes explicitly agreeing to limit access to cheaper generic and biosimilar alternatives.
Evidence indicates that these agreements can result in excluding lower-cost competitor drugs from PBM formularies in exchange for higher rebates from manufacturers.
The report also disclosed how companies often sign rebate contracts with drug manufacturers, where manufacturers pay Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) for favorable formulary placement and administrative fees.
Traditionally, PBMs negotiated these contracts directly, but recently, the top three PBMs have created separate entities, known as rebate aggregators, to handle negotiations for them and their clients.
These rebates significantly reduce the net prices for payers compared to the point-of-sale prices that affect patient cost-sharing and deductibles at pharmacies.
Price Action: CVS shares are trading higher by 1.12% at $57.53 at the last check on Tuesday.
Photos via Shutterstock

Legal

Media

FTC Investigation Uncovers Anti-Competitive Practices By Handful Of Pharmacy Benefit Managers, Including CVS Health, UnitedHealth

Walmart Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WMT#NYSE">WMT</a>) has reportedly entered discussions with prospective buyers to offload its recently closed medical clinics.
In April, Walmart announced the shutdown of all 51 of its health clinics and terminated its virtual healthcare services, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/large-cap/24/04/38529328/walmart-to-shut-down-all-clinic-locations-amid-rising-costs-what-it-means-for-your-healthcare" rel="noreferrer noopener">citing the unsustainable nature of the business model.</a>
The retail giant is now exploring options to recover some of its investments in the clinics, engaging in conversations with various entities, including health insurance company Humana Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HUM#NYSE">HUM</a>), reported Reuters.
Walmart has expressed its aim to recoup investments through a sale or other takeover arrangements. Although it&#8217;s unclear whether these discussions are still active, the company intends to recover part of the extensive capital poured into the clinics.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/06/39330360/walmart-relaunches-no-boundaries-fashion-line-to-attract-gen-z-customers" rel="noreferrer noopener">Walmart Relaunches &#8216;No Boundaries&#8217; Fashion Line To Attract Gen Z Customers</a>
Last week, Walmart sold its virtual care subsidiary, MeMD, to healthcare technology startup Fabric, though the financial details of this transaction were not disclosed.
The retailers revenue for first quarter of 2025 totaled $161.51 billion, up 6.0% year over year, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/24/05/38869341/walmars-q1-earnings-revenue-and-eps-beat-more-members-and-high-income-households-raised-outlook" rel="noreferrer noopener">beating the consensus of $159.50 billion.</a>
The adjusted EPS&nbsp;was $0.60, beating the analyst consensus estimate of $0.52.
Walmart stock has gained more than 29% in the last 12 months.&nbsp;Investors can&nbsp;gain access to&nbsp;the stock via&nbsp;the Consumer Staples Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLP#NYSE">XLP</a>) and Vanguard Consumer Staples ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VDC#NYSE">VDC</a>).
Price Action: WMT shares closed higher by 0.87% at $68.07 on Tuesday.
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Photo by Sundry Photography on Shutterstock
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Asset Sales

Walmart Explores Sale Of Closed Health Clinics To Recoup Investments: Report

<a href="https://fortune.com/2024/07/02/exclusive-walmart-talks-to-sell-shuttered-medical-clinics/" title="https://fortune.com/2024/07/02/exclusive-walmart-talks-to-sell-shuttered-medical-clinics/">https://fortune.com/2024/07/02/exclusive-walmart-talks-to-sell-shuttered-medical-clinics/</a>

'Walmart Has Held Talks To Sell Its Shuttered Medical Clinics' - Fortune

Shares of managed care stocks are trading higher in reaction to Thursday's presidential debate.

Humana Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HUM#NYSE">HUM</a>) recently inked an in-network deal with the University of Alabama at Birmingham's (UAB) Health System to provide <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/24/06/39171016/humana-partners-with-uab-to-boost-care-for-ma-members">Medicare Advantage members in the state greater access to care</a>.
The leadership of the new CEO, Jim Rechtin, who is joining on July 1, could accelerate the company's turnaround, according to Piper Sandler.
The Humana Analyst: Jessica Tassan initiated coverage of Humana with an Overweight rating and price target of $392.
The Humana Thesis: The company's turnaround is "well underway," and earnings are likely to trough this year, Tassan said in the initiation note.
Check out <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings">other analyst stock ratings</a>.
Humana has a "positive 6-month catalyst path," starting with the raising of its 2024 adjusted earnings guidance as early as during the second-quarter earnings call, she stated.
"We believe the company's purpose-built healthcare delivery and services infrastructure should improve outcomes and bend the cost curve through center-based, at-home and pharmacy care over time," the analyst wrote.
"In public appearances since the 1Q24 print, HUM management has stated that inpatient admissions are trending in line with expectations but that unit costs could be favorable," she further said.
HUM Price Action: Shares of Humana had risen by 1.30% to $360.42 at the time of publication on Wednesday.
Read Next:<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/06/39502281/judge-tosses-the-card-visa-mastercard-swipe-fee-settlement-reportedly-rejected"> Judge Tosses The Card: Visa-Mastercard Swipe Fee Settlement Reportedly Rejected</a>
Photo: <a href="https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Timon+photography+world">T. Schneider</a> via Shutterstock

Analyst Color

Long Ideas

Initiation

Management

Insurance

Humana Has A 'Positive 6-Month Catalyst Path,' Says Bullish Analyst

Piper Sandler analyst Jessica Tassan initiates coverage on Humana (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HUM#NYSE">HUM</a>) with a Overweight rating and announces Price Target of $392.

Piper Sandler Initiates Coverage On Humana with Overweight Rating, Announces Price Target of $392

Most major U.S. managed care insurers set for sequential earnings declines in Q2

UnitedHealth Q2 2024 Earnings Review - A Panacea For Investor's Fears

UnitedHealth: Q2 2024 Earnings Review, A Panacea For Investor's Fears

A class action lawsuit was filed against Humana Inc. ($HUM) on June 3, 2024. The plaintiffs (shareholders) alleged that they bought HUM stock at ar...

Class Action Lawsuit Against Humana Inc. (NYSE:HUM)

Dividend Champion, Contender, And Challenger Highlights: Week Of July 21

It's safe to say Humana (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HUM#NYSE">HUM</a>) has not been one of the year's star performers. In contrast to the generally positive market sentiment, shares o...

Should You Buy Humana Stock Right Now? Here's What Piper Sandler Expects

In a report released yesterday, Sarah James from Cantor Fitzgerald maintained a Hold rating on Humana (HUM – Research Report), with a price target ...

Cantor Fitzgerald Keeps Their Hold Rating on Humana (HUM)

In a report released today, Ryan Langston from TD Cowen maintained a Buy rating on Humana (HUM – Research Report), with a price target of $407.00. ...

Optimistic Outlook: Humana's EPS Growth and Price Target Increase Despite MLR Concerns

Humana: Outlook Improving Ahead Of Q2 Earnings, 'Buy' Thesis Intact

Dodge & Cox Stock Fund Q2 2024 Shareholder Letter

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Press Releases

Humana Healthy Horizons Commits to Increasing Healthcare Access for Oklahomans

SHAREHOLDER ALERT: Pomerantz Law Firm Announces the Filing of a Class Action Against Humana Inc. - HUM

Humana Inc. Class Action: The Gross Law Firm Reminds Humana Investors of the Pending Class Action Lawsuit with a Lead Plaintiff Deadline of August 2, 2024 - HUM

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Humana (HUM) Forecast

Humana (NYSE:HUM) Stock, Quote.Headers.trade-ideas