UnitedHealth Group's revenues for the fourth quarter and full year of 2024 increased by 8% year-over-year to US$400.3 billion, of which $5.54 billion was profit, driven by an increase in UnitedHealthcare patients and Optum value-based care patients.
Adjusted net earnings per share were $27.66, compared to net earnings of $15.51 per share. Operational cash flows totalled $24.2 billion.
“The people of UnitedHealth Group remain focused on making high-quality, affordable health care more available to more people while making the health system easier to navigate for patients and providers, positioning us well for growth in 2025,” said Andrew Witty, chief executive officer of UnitedHealth Group.
The UnitedHealth Group has set ambitious performance targets for 2025. Revenues are projected between $450 billion and $455 billion, net income is projected between $28.15 and $28.65 per share, and adjusted net income is expected between $29.50 and $30 per share.
It expects to generate $32-$33 billion in cash flow from operations this year.
UnitedHealth Group's economic outlook remains positive, with the company focusing on making high-quality, affordable healthcare more accessible.
However, challenges such as rising medical costs and regulatory risks, particularly in Medicare and Medicaid, could impact profit growth.
UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, killed on 4 December allegedly by Luigi Mangione outside a Manhattan hotel, is not mentioned in the earnings statement.
At the time of writing, UnitedHealth Group's stock price is approximately US$485.25, and its market cap is around US$450 billion.
