UnitedHealth Group beat earnings and revenue estimates last quarter amid efforts to streamline operations, and has raised its full-year outlook.
Revenue was up 2% year-over-year to US$111.72 billion, above LSEG consensus estimates of $109.57 billion. Earnings were $7.23, up from $7.20 and passing estimates of $6.57.
“We are continuing to help simplify and modernize health care for the people and care providers we serve, bringing greater value, affordability, transparency and connectivity,” said UnitedHealth CEO Stephen Hemsley.
The company’s overhaul has included exiting non-U.S. businesses, it said, as well as simplifying and modernising through artificial intelligence and cybersecurity investments. It began these efforts in 2025’s second half.
Its earnings from operations were $8.99 billion last quarter, down from $9.12 billion one year ago.
UnitedHealthcare’s revenues rose 2% to $86.3 billion, with growth across all sub-segments. Earnings from operations increased 9% to $5.7 billion.
Optum’s revenue dropped 0.2% during the quarter, while earnings from operations plummeted 15%. UnitedHealth completed the sale of Optum’s United Kingdom business during the quarter.
The company’s full-year guidance includes adjusted earnings per share of at least $18.25. It had forecast earnings of $17.75 per share in January.
It agreed to purchase healthcare benefits administration platform Alegeus Technologies last quarter, and expects the transaction to close in 2026’s second half. UnitedHealthcare also said this week that it would expand its payment acceleration program for rural hospitals to five new states.
UnitedHealth (NYSE: UNH) shares closed 7% higher at $346.01, but dipped 0.3% after-hours. Its market capitalisation is $314.06 billion.
