Why UnitedHealth Earnings Are Underwhelming

Health and Healthcare

Published: July 18, 2019 10:20 am

Last Updated: January 30, 2020 6:25 pm

UnitedHealth Group Inc. (NYSE: UNH) reported its second-quarter financial results before the markets opened on Thursday. The firm said that it had $3.60 in earnings per share (EPS) and $60.6 billion in revenue. That compared with consensus estimates of $3.45 in EPS and $60.59 billion in revenue, as well as the $3.14 per share and $56.09 billion posted in the same period of last year.

During the latest quarter, revenues grew 8.0% year over year to $60.6 billion, led by double-digit percentage revenue growth at UnitedHealthcare Medicare & Retirement, OptumRx and OptumHealth.

Looking ahead to the full year, the company expects to see EPS in the range of $14.70 to $14.90. Consensus estimates call for $14.70 in EPS and $244.27 billion in revenue for the year.

David S. Wichmann, CEO of UnitedHealth, commented:

Our results in the quarter reflect strong and balanced performance from both Optum and UnitedHealthcare and are driven by the 320,000 women and men of UnitedHealth Group who focus every day on creating value for those we serve.

Shares of UnitedHealth traded down over 1% at $262.49 on Thursday, in a 52-week range of $208.07 to $287.94. The consensus price target is $290.91.

24/7 Wall St.
SunTrust, Cautious on Semiconductors Due to Trade Issues, Has 4 Top Buys

Are You Still Paying With a Debit Card?

The average American spends $17,274 on debit cards a year, and it’s a HUGE mistake. First, debit cards don’t have the same fraud protections as credit cards. Once your money is gone, it’s gone. But more importantly you can actually get something back from this spending every time you swipe.

Issuers are handing out wild bonuses right now. With some you can earn up to 5% back on every purchase. That’s like getting a 5% discount on everything you buy!

Our top pick is kind of hard to imagine. Not only does it pay up to 5% back, it also includes a $200 cash back reward in the first six months, a 0% intro APR, and…. $0 annual fee. It’s quite literally free money for any one that uses a card regularly. Click here to learn more!

Flywheel Publishing has partnered with CardRatings to provide coverage of credit card products. Flywheel Publishing and CardRatings may receive a commission from card issuers.