In a report released on June 16, Whit Mayo from Leerink Partners reiterated a Hold rating on Humana (HUM – Research Report), with a price target of $271.00.
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Whit Mayo has given his Hold rating due to a combination of factors surrounding Humana’s strategic plans and current market conditions. The company is focusing on a multi-year plan aimed at stabilizing and enhancing its margins through clinical excellence and operational efficiency. However, the emphasis is more on the process rather than immediate targets, indicating that significant efforts are needed to achieve member and benefit stability.
Humana’s shift in focus towards 2028, with an emphasis on clinical excellence and operating leverage, suggests a long-term strategy to drive earnings growth. Despite some expected improvements in margins by 2026-27, the anticipated decline in 2026 earnings due to Star ratings challenges and other headwinds remains a concern. Management’s cautious approach, including not assuming a favorable outcome in Stars litigation, reflects the uncertainties ahead. These factors contribute to the Hold rating, as the company navigates through its strategic initiatives and market challenges.
In another report released yesterday, Barclays also maintained a Hold rating on the stock with a $268.00 price target.
HUM’s price has also changed slightly for the past six months – from $260.460 to $235.390, which is a -9.63% drop .