UnitedHealth Group에 대한 매도 수량은 투자자에게 UnitedHealth Group의 주식 하락에 베팅하는 정도를 알려줍니다. 매도 수량 데이터는 2주마다 업데이트됩니다.

UnitedHealth Group (NYSE:UNH) 주식, 공매도 수량 보고

UnitedHealth Group

UnitedHealth Group is one of the largest private health insurers, providing medical benefits to about 50 million members globally, including 1 million outside the us as June 2024. As a leader in employer-sponsored, self-directed, and government-backed insurance plans, UnitedHealth has obtained massive scale in managed care. Along with its insurance assets, UnitedHealth's continued investments in its Optum franchises have created a healthcare services colossus that spans everything from medical and pharmaceutical benefits to providing outpatient care and analytics to both affiliated and third-party customers.

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벤징가는 지난주 많은 투자자들이 선호하는 주식들의 전망을 조사한 결과를 바탕으로, 다음과 같이 주요 뉴스 몇 가지를 요약했다.
주요 평균 지수들이 금요일에 상승했으나, 여전히 주간 손실을 기록했다. 다우지수는 2.3% 하락, S&amp;P 500은 2% 하락 그리고 나스닥은 1.8% 하락했다.

벤징가 불스 앤 베어스: 테슬라, 브로드컴, 유나이티드헬스, 비트코인 및 도지코인

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월스트리트는 목요일에 정부 셧다운을 막으려는 시도가 실패한 후 금요일에 워싱턴 D.C.에서의 발전을 주시하고 있다. 일부 주식은 하루가 지나고 자정 마감 시한이 다가오면서 불안한 모습을 보이고 있다. 무슨 일이 있었나: 하원은 마이크 존슨(공화당-루이지애나) 하원의장이 제안한 비상 계획을 투표 몇 시간 만에 거부했다. 이 제안은 필요한 2/3의 찬성을 얻지 못했다.

美 정부 폐쇄 위협: 협상이 실패하면 휴가 여행 및 급여 지연 가능성 대두

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처방약급여관리업체(PBM)인 CVS헬스(NYSE:CVS), 유나이티드헬스 그룹(NYSE:UNH), 시그나 그룹(NYSE:CI)의 주가는 화요일(17일)에도 계속 하락세를 보였다. 도널드 트럼프 대통령 당선인이 의약품 중개업체(middleman)를 업계에서 퇴출시키려는 계획에 대해 공격적인 발언을 한 이후 하락 입력이 지속되었다.

CVS헬스·시그나·유나이티드헬스 주가 지속 하락하는 이유는?

UnitedHealth Group Incorporated Common Stock (DE)

UnitedHealth Group Inc

EC Healthcare

United Hampshire US REIT

The year 2024 saw the U.S. stock market make new records, with major indices breaching key milestones. While many stocks witnessed a stellar rally this year, analysts still expect some blue-chip equities to rise further as they forecast a better return potential.
Dow&#8217;s Performance In 2024
The Dow Jones Industrial Average index hit a record eight 1,000-point milestones this year. It started the year around the 37,000 level and breached the 45,000 level at the beginning of December. It took only seven trading days for the index to go from 44,000 to 45,000, the second fastest 1,000-point milestone ever.
Following that the index also saw one of its longest 10-day losing streak, the first ever since 1974. These 10 days of underperformance stems from a confluence of factors. 
The Dow doesn&#8217;t include all &#8220;Magnificent 7&#8221; stocks like Tesla Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>) and Alphabet Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOG#NASDAQ">GOOG</a>) (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOGL#NASDAQ">GOOGL</a>). The recent inclusion of Nvidia Corporation (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>) in the Dow has also pulled the index down because of the stock&#8217;s underperformance.
Dow&#8217;s constituent UnitedHealth Group Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UNH#NYSE">UNH</a>) has experienced a substantial decline this month following the tragedy with its CEO&#8217;s shooting. Moreover, in essence, the Dow&#8217;s historical advantage of its price-weighted indexing has become a significant disadvantage in today&#8217;s market. This is because, unlike market capitalization-weighted indices, higher-priced stocks have more weight in the calculation of a price-weighted index.
<h4 class="wp-block-heading">Dow Jones Stocks With The Best And Worst Return Potential</h4>
Analysts still expect that a group of stocks led by Caterpillar Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CAT#NYSE">CAT</a>), UnitedHealth and Sherwin-Williams Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SHW#NYSE">SHW</a>) within the Dow will rise even more, according to estimates compiled by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com">Benzinga</a>. Others on the list are the Amazon.com Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>), Johnson &amp; Johnson (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JNJ#NYSE">JNJ</a>), Chevron Corp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CVX#NYSE">CVX</a>) and Merck &amp; Co Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>).
To be sure, analysts keep updating their forecasts based on company performance and may change their estimates as the new earnings season begins.
Selection Criteria:
<ul>
<li>The thirty blue-chip stocks in Down Jones.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>The highest and lowest return potential is based on the average 12-month target prices from <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard">Benzinga Pro data</a>.</li>
</ul>
<figure class="wp-block-table is-style-stripes"> 
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Companies</td>
<td>M-Cap</td>
<td>Highest PT ($/Share)</td>
<td>Lowest PT ($/Share)</td>
<td>Consensus PT ($/Share)</td>
<td>Upside/Downside Potential</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Caterpillar Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CAT#NYSE">CAT</a>)</td>
<td>176.73B</td>
<td>515</td>
<td>174</td>
<td>331.35</td>
<td>31.68%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>UnitedHealth Group Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UNH#NYSE">UNH</a>)</td>
<td>460.26B</td>
<td>675</td>
<td>460</td>
<td>608.16</td>
<td>28.95%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Sherwin-Williams Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SHW#NYSE">SHW</a>)</td>
<td>86.71B</td>
<td>450</td>
<td>249</td>
<td>371.19</td>
<td>24.08%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Amazon.com Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>)</td>
<td>2,365.04B</td>
<td>290</td>
<td>197</td>
<td>247.05</td>
<td>23.82%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Johnson &amp; Johnson (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JNJ#NYSE">JNJ</a>)</td>
<td>347.83B</td>
<td>215</td>
<td>40</td>
<td>168</td>
<td>22.41%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Chevron Corp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CVX#NYSE">CVX</a>)</td>
<td>256.71B</td>
<td>212</td>
<td>160</td>
<td>179.36</td>
<td>21.42%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Merck &amp; Co Inc (NYSE: MRK</td>
<td>248.03B</td>
<td>155</td>
<td>104</td>
<td>126.24</td>
<td>20.76%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Salesforce Inc. (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/crm#NYSE">CRM</a>)</td>
<td>328.87B</td>
<td>450</td>
<td>236</td>
<td>378.52</td>
<td>20.60%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Microsoft Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>)</td>
<td>3,246.07B</td>
<td>600</td>
<td>465</td>
<td>508</td>
<td>18.21%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Visa Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/V#NYSE">V</a>)</td>
<td>622.63B</td>
<td>375</td>
<td>252</td>
<td>318.42</td>
<td>17.69%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Source: Benzinga.com (Data as of Dec. 22, 2024)</figcaption></figure>
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42430296/carson-researchs-50-year-study-suggests-that-the-26-months-old-bull-market-is-far-from-over">Is The 26-Month Bull Market Over? Here Is What Carson Research&#8217;s 50-Year Old Study Tells Us</a>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Caterpillar Inc</h3>
<ul>
<li>Caterpillar Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CAT#NYSE">CAT</a>) has the highest return potential of 31.68% among the Dow Jones constituents.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>The 28 analysts tracking the company have a consensus price target of $331.35 per share, according to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/CAT/analyst-ratings">Benzinga</a>. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Truist Securities&#8217; Jamie Cook raised the price target from $454 to $471 per share on Dec. 19, 2024 as he expects significant investments in infrastructure, likely driven by government initiatives and private sector projects to fuel demand for Caterpillar&#8217;s equipment.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Citigroup analyst Kyle Menges maintained a &#8216;buy&#8217; rating on the company and raised the price target from $435 to $460 apiece on Dec. 9, 2024.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>On Dec. 9, JPMorgan analyst Tami Zakaria also reaffirmed her bullish stance on Caterpillar, maintaining a &#8216;buy&#8217; rating on the stock. Concurrently, she raised the firm&#8217;s price target for Caterpillar from $500 to $515 per share.</li>
</ul>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">UnitedHealth Group</h3>
<ul>
<li>UnitedHealth Group Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UNH#NYSE">UNH</a>) has the second highest return potential of 28.95% among the Dow Jones constituents.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>The 26 analysts tracking the company have a consensus price target of $331.35 per share, according to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/UNH/analyst-ratings">Benzinga</a>.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Oppenheimer raised its price target to $640 from $610 apiece on Dec.6, 2024. The primary reason for the price target increase is that the Oppenheimer analyst is updating their financial model. This update appears to be based solely on the publicly available information disclosed by UnitedHealth in their 8-K filing.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Stephens &amp; Co raised its target price to $675 from $605 per share on Dec. 5, 2024, after conducting a detailed review of the 2025 guidance metrics that UnitedHealth had shared before the fatal shooting of CEO Brian Thompson that led to the cancellation of their investor conference.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Deutsche Bank also increased its target from $595 to $625 apiece as it believes investor positioning into the event is mostly neutral to positive, with almost no one expecting a negative revision versus the third quarter outlook.</li>
</ul>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Sherwin-Williams Company</h3>
<ul>
<li>Sherwin-Williams Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SHW#NYSE">SHW</a>) has a return potential of 24.08% going into 2025.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>A consensus price target of $371.19 per share was maintained by 25 analysts that track the company, as per <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/SHW/analyst-ratings">Benzinga</a>. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Greg Melich from Evercore ISI raised the price target of the Ohio-based paints, coatings and related products manufacturer to $420 from $400 per share on Nov. 7, 2024.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>RBC Capital&#8217;s Arun Viswanathan lowered his target on the company from $455 to $446 per share on Oct. 24, 2024. While acknowledging that third-quarter results might not have met investor expectations, Viswanathan emphasized the company&#8217;s potential for market share gains and the positive impact of its upcoming price increase scheduled for January 2025.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Citigroup adjusted its price target from $430 to $420 apiece on Oct. 24 as it anticipates choppy demand in the first half of 2025, which could hinder the rapid pass-through of interest rate cuts.</li>
</ul>
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/11/42383725/trump-administrations-deregulation-efforts-to-lift-energy-oil-and-gas-sectors-ai-frenzy-to-aid-faang-stocks-and-nvidia-says-fintech-insider">Trump&#8217;s Deregulation Efforts To Benefit Energy, Oil And Gas Sectors, While AI Frenzy Will Boost FAANG Stocks And Nvidia, Says Fintech Insider</a>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Amazon.com Inc</h3>
<ul>
<li>Amazon.com Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>) has a return potential of 23.82% going into 2025.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>A consensus price target of $247.05 per share was maintained by 39 analysts that track the company, as per <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/AMZN/analyst-ratings">Benzinga</a>. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Tigress Financial&#8217;s Ivan Feinseth umped is price target from $245 to $290 apiece on Dec.20, 2024 as it believes Amazon is well-positioned for continued success, driven by robust retail trends, effective utilization of generative AI and its fulfillment network, and the strategic integration of AI across its entire business.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>The expectations of strong long-term growth driven by operational efficiency and sustained momentum across its business segments led Bernstein to raise its target price from $235 to $265 per share on Dec. 18, 2024.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>According to JPMorgan analyst Douglas Anmuth, Amazon is a best idea for 2025, and confidence in AWS growth in the months to come is a major reason for that. He raised its target price from $250 to $280 apiece on Dec. 18, 2024.</li>
</ul>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Johnson &amp; Johnson</h3>
<ul>
<li>Johnson &amp; Johnson (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JNJ#NYSE">JNJ</a>) has the fifth highest return potential in Dow of 22.41% going into 2025.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>The 21 analysts tracking the company have a consensus price target of $168 apiece, according to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/JNJ/analyst-ratings">Benzinga</a>. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Citigroup&#8217;s Joanne Wuensch lowered Johnson &amp; Johnson&#8217;s price target from $185 to $175 per share while maintaining a &#8216;buy&#8217; rating on Dec. 11, 2024.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>BofA Securities reinstated coverage of Johnson &amp; Johnson with a &#8216;neutral&#8217; rating and a $166 price target on Dec. 10, 2024. BofA notes that J&amp;J&#8217;s current valuation premium to peers may limit upside potential. However, the analyst acknowledges a &#8220;fairly interesting&#8221; pipeline and anticipates that resolving the talc litigation in 2025 would be beneficial. This analysis was part of BofA&#8217;s broader coverage initiation of 11 large-cap U.S. pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Wolfe Research analyst Alexandria Hammond commenced coverage of Johnson &amp; Johnson with an &#8216;outperform&#8217; recommendation and established a price target of $190 per share on Nov. 15, 2024</li>
</ul>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Chevron Corporation</h3>
<ul>
<li>Chevron Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CVX#NYSE">CVX</a>) has a return potential of 21.42% going into 2025.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>The 24 analysts tracking the company have a consensus price target of $179.36 apiece, according to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/CVX/analyst-ratings">Benzinga</a>.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Piper Sandler analyst Ryan Todd reduced his price target on the company from $184 to $173 per share on Dec. 19, 2024, while maintaining a &#8216;buy&#8217; rating. Piper Sandler suggests the valuation gap between Exxon Mobil Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XOM#NYSE">XOM</a>) and Chevron implies a probability of over 65% of the Hess Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HES#NYSE">HES</a>) deal failing out. This scenario presents a potential 15%-25% upside, while a successful deal offers a 5%-10% downside ahead of the upcoming arbitration.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Despite this deal uncertainty, Piper expects Chevron to deliver strong portfolio performance in 2025, driven by project starts and controlled capital expenditures. This is projected to result in a significant free cash flow increase of $6-$7 billion.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Wells Fargo analyst Roger Read raised his target price from $171 to $188 apiece on Dec. 9, 2024</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Truist Securities raised its price target on Chevron to $160 from $155 while maintaining a &#8216;hold&#8217; rating, on Dec. 6, 2024. The analyst highlights Chevron&#8217;s significant inventory, including ample royalties, and expects improved capital efficiency to drive a cash flow inflection in the coming year.</li>
</ul>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Merck &amp; Co Inc</h3>
<ul>
<li>Merck &amp; Co Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>) has the seventh highest return potential in Dow of 20.76% going into 2025.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>The 27 analysts tracking the company have a consensus price target of $126.24 apiece, according to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/MRK/analyst-ratings">Benzinga</a>.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>BMO Capital Markets downgraded Merck to &#8216;market perform&#8217; from &#8216;outperform&#8217; lowering the price target from $136 to $105 apiece, on Dec. 20, 2024. The downgrade reflects concerns about the company&#8217;s Gardasil franchise in China and the potential revenue gap as Keytruda faces increased competition from biosimilars and generic drugs.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Tim Anderson from BofA Securities maintains his bullish stance on Merck with a &#8216;buy&#8217; rating, while adjusting the price target downward to $121 from $127 per share, on Dec. 10, 2024.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Truist analyst Robyn Karnauskas reaffirms a &#8216;buy&#8217; rating for Merck on Nov. 7, 2024, but lowers the price target to $130 from $132 apiece.</li>
</ul>
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42642834/market-breadth-turns-positive-after-a-rare-14-day-negative-streak-history-suggests-gains-ahead">Market Breadth Rebounds As Risk Appetite Makes A Comeback: This Analyst Predicts Gains Ahead After S&amp;P 500&#8217;s Record Negative Streak</a></li>
</ul>
Photo courtesy: Shutterstock

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Top 7 Blue-Chip Stocks With The Best Return Potential Going Into 2025

Whales with a lot of money to spend have taken a noticeably bearish stance on UnitedHealth Group.
Looking at options history for UnitedHealth Group (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UNH#NYSE">UNH</a>) we detected 22 trades.
If we consider the specifics of each trade, it is accurate to state that 22% of the investors opened trades with bullish expectations and 45% with bearish.
From the overall spotted trades, 10 are puts, for a total amount of $808,287 and 12, calls, for a total amount of $845,387.
<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 $280.0 to $600.0 for UnitedHealth Group over the last 3 months. 
<h3>Volume &amp; Open Interest Trends</h3>
Examining the volume and open interest provides crucial insights into stock research. This information is key in gauging liquidity and interest levels for UnitedHealth Group's options at certain strike prices. Below, we present a snapshot of the trends in volume and open interest for calls and puts across UnitedHealth Group's significant trades, within a strike price range of $280.0 to $600.0, over the past month.
<h3>UnitedHealth Group 30-Day Option Volume &amp; Interest Snapshot</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1735064132_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>Open Interest</th>
<th align="right">Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>UNH</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>03/21/25</td>
<td>$37.2</td>
<td>$34.85</td>
<td>$35.87</td>
<td>$520.00</td>
<td>$355.1K</td>
<td>1.0K</td>
<td align="right">4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>UNH</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>09/19/25</td>
<td>$60.1</td>
<td>$59.0</td>
<td>$59.0</td>
<td>$500.00</td>
<td>$147.5K</td>
<td>60</td>
<td align="right">25</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>UNH</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/15/27</td>
<td>$97.15</td>
<td>$92.9</td>
<td>$96.17</td>
<td>$510.00</td>
<td>$144.2K</td>
<td>17</td>
<td align="right">15</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>UNH</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$111.25</td>
<td>$109.95</td>
<td>$111.23</td>
<td>$600.00</td>
<td>$133.4K</td>
<td>164</td>
<td align="right">14</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>UNH</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>03/21/25</td>
<td>$174.2</td>
<td>$166.85</td>
<td>$170.85</td>
<td>$340.00</td>
<td>$85.4K</td>
<td>4</td>
<td align="right">5</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h3>About UnitedHealth Group</h3>
UnitedHealth Group is one of the largest private health insurers, providing medical benefits to about 50 million members globally, including 1 million outside the us as June 2024. As a leader in employer-sponsored, self-directed, and government-backed insurance plans, UnitedHealth has obtained massive scale in managed care. Along with its insurance assets, UnitedHealth's continued investments in its Optum franchises have created a healthcare services colossus that spans everything from medical and pharmaceutical benefits to providing outpatient care and analytics to both affiliated and third-party customers.
Having examined the options trading patterns of UnitedHealth Group, our attention now turns directly to the company. This shift allows us to delve into its present market position and performance
<h3>Where Is UnitedHealth Group Standing Right Now?</h3>
<ul>
<li>With a trading volume of 1,772,723, the price of UNH is down by -0.05%, reaching $506.1.</li>
<li>Current RSI values indicate that the stock is is currently neutral between overbought and oversold.</li>
<li>Next earnings report is scheduled for 17 days from now.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Professional Analyst Ratings for UnitedHealth Group</h3>
Over the past month, 4 industry analysts have shared their insights on this stock, proposing an average target price of $648.75.
Unusual Options Activity Detected: Smart Money on the Move
Benzinga Edge's Unusual Options board spots potential market movers before they happen. See what positions big money is taking on your favorite stocks. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/benzinga-edge-checkout/?t=Be8be9arja3be22bz20&amp;utm_source=benzinga-insights">Click here for access</a>. 
&#x2A; An analyst from Oppenheimer persists with their Outperform rating on UnitedHealth Group, maintaining a target price of $640. 
&#x2A; Consistent in their evaluation, an analyst from Deutsche Bank keeps a Buy rating on UnitedHealth Group with a target price of $625. 
&#x2A; Maintaining their stance, an analyst from Stephens &amp; Co. continues to hold a Overweight rating for UnitedHealth Group, targeting a price of $675. 
&#x2A; Maintaining their stance, an analyst from Barclays continues to hold a Overweight rating for UnitedHealth Group, targeting a price of $655. 
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 UnitedHealth Group, <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a> gives you real-time options trades alerts.

Options

UnitedHealth Group's Options Frenzy: What You Need to Know

Whales with a lot of money to spend have taken a noticeably bearish stance on UnitedHealth Group.
Looking at options history for UnitedHealth Group (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UNH#NYSE">UNH</a>) we detected 25 trades.
If we consider the specifics of each trade, it is accurate to state that 28% of the investors opened trades with bullish expectations and 36% with bearish.
From the overall spotted trades, 10 are puts, for a total amount of $442,883 and 15, calls, for a total amount of $988,254.
<h3>Expected Price Movements</h3>
After evaluating the trading volumes and Open Interest, it's evident that the major market movers are focusing on a price band between $320.0 and $620.0 for UnitedHealth Group, spanning the last three months.
<h3>Volume &amp; Open Interest Development</h3>
In terms of liquidity and interest, the mean open interest for UnitedHealth Group options trades today is 539.5 with a total volume of 2,779.00.
In the following chart, we are able to follow the development of volume and open interest of call and put options for UnitedHealth Group's big money trades within a strike price range of $320.0 to $620.0 over the last 30 days.
<h3>UnitedHealth Group Call and Put Volume: 30-Day Overview</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1734972331_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>Open Interest</th>
<th align="right">Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>UNH</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$21.45</td>
<td>$16.75</td>
<td>$20.0</td>
<td>$580.00</td>
<td>$276.0K</td>
<td>1.1K</td>
<td align="right">138</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>UNH</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$196.2</td>
<td>$189.45</td>
<td>$192.83</td>
<td>$320.00</td>
<td>$96.4K</td>
<td>20</td>
<td align="right">5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>UNH</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>02/21/25</td>
<td>$5.6</td>
<td>$4.5</td>
<td>$5.6</td>
<td>$580.00</td>
<td>$86.8K</td>
<td>385</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>UNH</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>12/27/24</td>
<td>$4.3</td>
<td>$4.0</td>
<td>$4.04</td>
<td>$500.00</td>
<td>$80.3K</td>
<td>726</td>
<td align="right">485</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>UNH</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>03/21/25</td>
<td>$19.2</td>
<td>$19.05</td>
<td>$19.05</td>
<td>$480.00</td>
<td>$78.1K</td>
<td>527</td>
<td align="right">46</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h3>About UnitedHealth Group</h3>
UnitedHealth Group is one of the largest private health insurers, providing medical benefits to about 50 million members globally, including 1 million outside the us as June 2024. As a leader in employer-sponsored, self-directed, and government-backed insurance plans, UnitedHealth has obtained massive scale in managed care. Along with its insurance assets, UnitedHealth's continued investments in its Optum franchises have created a healthcare services colossus that spans everything from medical and pharmaceutical benefits to providing outpatient care and analytics to both affiliated and third-party customers.
Following our analysis of the options activities associated with UnitedHealth Group, we pivot to a closer look at the company's own performance.
<h3>Current Position of UnitedHealth Group</h3>
<ul>
<li>Currently trading with a volume of 1,337,958, the UNH's price is up by 0.81%, now at $504.17. </li>
<li>RSI readings suggest the stock is currently may be oversold.</li>
<li>Anticipated earnings release is in 18 days.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Professional Analyst Ratings for UnitedHealth Group</h3>
A total of 4 professional analysts have given their take on this stock in the last 30 days, setting an average price target of $648.75.
Turn $1000 into $1270 in just 20 days?
20-year pro options trader reveals his one-line chart technique that shows when to buy and sell. Copy his trades, which have had averaged a 27% profit every 20 days. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/options-moneyline-2/?t=Moop1arja3be22op14&amp;utm_source=benzinga-insights">Click here for access</a>. 
&#x2A; An analyst from Deutsche Bank persists with their Buy rating on UnitedHealth Group, maintaining a target price of $625. 
&#x2A; Consistent in their evaluation, an analyst from Barclays keeps a Overweight rating on UnitedHealth Group with a target price of $655. 
&#x2A; An analyst from Stephens &amp; Co. persists with their Overweight rating on UnitedHealth Group, maintaining a target price of $675. 
&#x2A; An analyst from Oppenheimer persists with their Outperform rating on UnitedHealth Group, maintaining a target price of $640. 
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 UnitedHealth Group, <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a> gives you real-time options trades alerts.

Unpacking the Latest Options Trading Trends in UnitedHealth Group

The alleged murderer of UnitedHealth Group (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UNH#NYSE">UNH</a>) CEO Brian Thompson has been transferred to the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn, New York. 
What Happened: The detention facility is also home to high-profile inmates, including convicted crypto fraudster Sam Bankman-Fried, who is serving a 25-year sentence for his role in the collapse of the FTX cryptocurrency exchange.
Luigi Mangione, 26, is accused of planning and executing the fatal shooting of Thompson on December 4 in New York City. The public murder shocked the city and sparked a days-long manhunt before Mangione was arrested at a McDonald's in Altoona, Pennsylvania. Prosecutors allege Mangione planned the attack for months, motivated by his disdain for the U.S. healthcare system. 
According to the report <a href="https://apnews.com/article/unitedhealthcare-ceo-killing-luigi-mangione-4cc18cfa71b96aaa39b321f60145d2f0">by</a> the Associated Press, Mangione now shares the Metropolitan Detention Center with Bankman-Fried, whose fraudulent management of FTX led to the crypto platform's bankruptcy in November 2022, wiping out billions of dollars.
The jail has also recently housed music producer Sean "Diddy" Combs, who faces racketeering and sex trafficking charges. Combs reportedly shared space with Bankman-Fried and used one of the disgraced crypto mogul's attorneys, according to court filings.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/24/12/42512814/luigi-mangione-lived-a-privileged-life-of-real-estate-wealth-before-arrest-in-ceo-case">Luigi Mangione Lived a Privileged Life Of Real Estate Wealth Before Arrest In CEO Case</a>
Bankman-Fried's fall from grace came after FTX, once a leading cryptocurrency exchange, went bankrupt due to what prosecutors called criminal mismanagement. The platform had allowed users to trade digital coins and tokens, but its rapid collapse left many investors in financial ruin.
Meanwhile, Mangione faces charges of premeditated murder, with prosecutors painting him as a calculated individual whose actions stemmed from long-standing contempt for the healthcare industry. 
As the case unfolds, Mangione's transfer to the Brooklyn jail adds another layer of intrigue to the detention center's high-profile roster of inmates.
Read Next
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/03/38013165/ftx-is-liquidating-sam-bankman-frieds-222-million-worth-of-real-estate-in-an-effort-to-com">FTX Is Liquidating Sam Bankman-Fried&#8217;s $222 Million Worth Of Real Estate In An Effort To Compensate Creditors</a>
This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

Legal

Luigi Mangione Lands In Same Brooklyn Jail As Diddy And FTX's Bankman-Fried

Benzinga examined the prospects for<a href="http://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas"> many investors&#8217; favorite stocks</a> over the last week — here&#8217;s a look at some of our top stories.
Major averages jumped on Friday but still logged weekly losses, with the Dow down 2.3%, the S&amp;P 500 falling 2%, and the Nasdaq losing 1.8%. 
The Federal Reserve&#8217;s widely anticipated 25-basis-point rate cut on Wednesday was overshadowed by its revised 2025 inflation forecasts and Jerome Powell&#8216;s cautious stance, dampening hopes for deeper cuts next year. Powell emphasized a "new phase" of monetary policy after a 100-basis-point reduction in 2024, signaling <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/large-cap/24/12/42629219/fed-cuts-interest-rates-but-powell-spoils-santa-claus-rally-dollar-surges-to-over-2-year-high-bitcoin-sinks-below-100000-this-week-in-the-market">only gradual easing in 2025</a>.
Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>), which had reached a record $108,388 before the Fed meeting, fell below $100,000 as markets absorbed the news.
Benzinga provides daily reports on the stocks most popular with investors. Here are a few of this past week&#8217;s most bullish and bearish posts that are worth another look.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">The Bulls</h3>
&#8220;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/24/12/42525257/analyst-hikes-teslas-price-target-to-515-musk-expresses-hope-for-stock-to-touch-69042">Elon Musk Hopes TSLA Stock Will Reach $690 As Analysts Raise Price Target Despite Technical Indicators Flashing Warning Signals</a>,&#8221; by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/anan-ashraf">Anan Ashraf</a>, reports Elon Musk's optimism about Tesla Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>) reaching $690, as analysts upgraded the stock with $515 price targets, citing potential benefits from Musk's alignment with Donald Trump's pro-autonomous vehicle policies.
&#8220;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42602503/dave-portnoy-says-he-owns-15-million-bitcoin-13-million-xrp-bet-it-and-set-it-not-trading">Dave Portnoy Says He Owns $1.5 Million Bitcoin, $1.3 Million XRP: &#8216;Bet It And Set It, Not Trading&#8217;</a>,&#8221; by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/chris-katje">Chris Katje</a> , reveals that Dave Portnoy, founder of Barstool Sports, holds $1.5 million in Bitcoin and $1.3 million in XRP (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/xrp/usd">XRP</a>), emphasizing a long-term investment strategy rather than active trading, following insights from a recent conversation with Michael Saylor.
&#8220;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/12/42516826/nvidia-and-5-other-stocks-are-analysts-top-semiconductor-picks-for-2025-sees-2-ai-trends">Nvidia And 5 Other Stocks Are Analyst&#8217;s Top Semiconductor Picks For 2025, Sees 2 AI Trends</a>,&#8221; by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/hayden-buckfire">Hayden Buckfire</a>, highlights a Bank of America analyst naming NVIDIA Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>), Broadcom Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AVGO#NASDAQ">AVGO</a>), and Marvell Technology Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRVL#NASDAQ">MRVL</a>) as top AI-driven semiconductor picks for 2025, alongside Lam Research Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LRCX#NASDAQ">LRCX</a>), ON Semiconductor Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ON#NASDAQ">ON</a>), and Cadence Design Systems Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CDNS#NASDAQ">CDNS</a>).
For additional bullish calls of the past week, check out the following:
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/24/12/42547442/microsof-scoops-up-485000-nvidia-ai-chips-twice-as-many-as-its-closest-rival-meta-report">Microsoft Scoops Up 485,000 Nvidia AI Chips, Twice As Many As Its Closest Rival Meta: Report</a>
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/24/12/42599673/amazon-has-20000-rivian-electric-delivery-vans-in-fleet-heres-what-could-be-next-for-both-companies">Amazon Has 20,000 Rivian Electric Delivery Vans In Fleet: Here&#8217;s What Could Be Next For Both Companies</a>
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/technicals/24/12/42535298/joby-clears-faa-tail-test-stock-flies-higher">Joby Clears FAA Tail Test, Stock Flies Higher</a>
The Bears
&#8220;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/12/42522048/jim-cramer-warns-nvidias-vicious-and-fast-reversal-is-coming-amid-174-surge-this-year-and-china-antitrust-probe">Jim Cramer Warns Nvidia&#8217;s &#8216;Vicious&#8217; And &#8216;Fast&#8217; Reversal Is Coming Amid 174% Surge This Year And China Antitrust Probe</a>,&#8221; by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/kaustubh-bagalkote">Kaustubh Bagalkote</a>, features Jim Cramer's caution about NVIDIA Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>) facing a sharp correction after its 174% YTD gain, amid heightened regulatory scrutiny from China over its Mellanox Technologies acquisition.
&#8220;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/movers/24/12/42568740/dogecoin-bull-says-he-had-to-sell-as-meme-king-plunges-to-5-week-low-but-derivative-traders-remain-bullish">Dogecoin Bull Says He &#8216;Had To Sell&#8217; As Meme King Plunges To 5-Week Low But Derivative Traders Remain Bullish</a>,&#8221; by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/aniket-verma">Aniket Verma</a>, reports on Dogecoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/doge/usd">DOGE</a>) dropping amid Federal Reserve concerns, with early adopter Glauber Contessoto selling some holdings.
&#8220;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42517567/cvs-cigna-unitedhealth-shares-slide-as-trump-targets-drug-middleman">CVS, Cigna, UnitedHealth Shares Slide As Trump Targets Drug &#8216;Middleman&#8217;</a>,&#8221; by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/adam-eckert">Adam Eckert</a>, reports that shares of CVS Health Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CVS#NYSE">CVS</a>), Cigna Group (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CI#NYSE">CI</a>), and UnitedHealth Group Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UNH#NYSE">UNH</a>) dropped after Trump vowed to eliminate Pharmacy Benefit Managers, citing their role in inflating drug prices and contributing to industry inefficiencies.
For more bearish takes, be sure to see these posts:
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/24/12/42559347/trump-administration-could-ban-amazons-top-selling-routers-linked-to-chinese-cyberattacks-report">Trump Administration Could Ban Amazon&#8217;s Top-Selling Routers Linked To Chinese Cyberattacks: Report</a>
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/12/42529095/bitcoin-crash-could-trigger-stock-market-decline-in-2025-warns-expert-im-very-worried-that-people-overextended-themselves">Bitcoin Crash Could Trigger Stock Market Decline In 2025, Warns Expert: &#8216;I&#8217;m Very Worried That People Overextended Themselves&#8217;</a>
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/24/12/42536470/costco-warns-that-tariffs-raise-prices-trump-team-says-trade-policies-will-make-life-affordable">Costco Warns That Tariffs Raise Prices, Trump Team Says Trade Policies Will &#8216;Make Life Affordable&#8217;</a>
Keep up with all the latest breaking news and trading ideas by following<a href="https://twitter.com/Benzinga"> Benzinga</a><a href="http://twitter.com/Benzinga"> on Twitter</a>.

$XRP

Benzinga Bulls And Bears: Tesla, Broadcom, UnitedHealth, Bitcoin And Dogecoin Bull 'Had To Sell' After Price Plunge

Wall Street is watching for developments in Washington, D.C. Friday after <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42607744/house-rejects-trump-endorsed-backup-plan-to-prevent-government-shutdown-and-suspend-debt-limit-lawmakers-chant-he">Thursday's failed attempt</a> to avert a government shutdown. Some stocks remain wobbly as the day wears on and a midnight deadline approaches. 
What Happened: The House turned down a contingency plan proposed by Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La) only hours before the vote Thursday. The proposal failed to secure the necessary two-thirds majority. 
Backed by President-elect Donald Trump, the funding bill ran into trouble mainly from Democrats due to its inclusion of a two-year debt limit suspension. The bill would have maintained government funding&nbsp;at existing levels through mid-March, suspended the debt limit&nbsp;for two years and allocated approximately&nbsp;$100 billion in disaster relief&nbsp;and about $10 billion for&nbsp;farmer economic assistance.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Market Movement, Sectors Affected </h2>
Defense Sector: Companies in the defense industry, such as Lockheed Martin (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LMT#NYSE">LMT</a>) , Northrop Grumman (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NOC#NYSE">NOC</a>) and L3Harris Technologies (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LHX#NYSE">LHX</a>) often depend heavily on government contracts. During a shutdown, delays in contract awards and payments can occur, potentially impacting cash flow and stock performance.
Health Care Sector: Firms that receive substantial revenue from government health care programs, like Medicare and Medicaid, might experience payment delays during the shutdown. This could affect companies such as UnitedHealth Group (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UNH#NYSE">UNH</a>) and Humana (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HUM#NYSE">HUM</a>).
Aerospace Sector: Aerospace companies that rely on federal contracts or regulatory approvals could face delays, potentially affecting their operations and stock prices. These stocks include Lockheed Martin and Boeing (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BA#NYSE">BA</a>)
Consumer, Retail Sectors: A shutdown can lead to furloughs for federal employees, resulting in delayed paychecks. This reduction in disposable income may decrease consumer spending over the holidays, adversely affecting retail companies and consumer goods manufacturers.
Financial Sector: Government shutdowns can delay economic reports and data releases, creating uncertainty in financial markets. Naturally, this uncertainty could lead to increased market volatility, impacting financial institutions and investment firms.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Holiday Travelers, Take Note</h2>
With the busy holiday season upon us and the Transportation Security Administration expecting to screen up to 40 million air travelers in the coming weeks, air traffic controllers and essential airport workers could be doing their jobs without the prospect of a paycheck.
Before the Capitol moved closer to a shutdown, the AAA predicted over 119 million people would hit the roads over the holidays, <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2024/12/20/travel/government-shutdown-travel.html">noted</a> the NY Times. If no funding solution is reached by midnight, the already crowded highways could be even more so as planes and trains fill up or, worse, face cancellations. No matter what happens in D.C., Amtrak is expected to keep the trains running on schedule.
Now Read:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/economics/macro-economic-events/24/12/42619788/market-volatility-halts-on-soft-inflation-data-yet-traders-remain-wary-of-fighting-the-fed-10-etfs-moving-friday">Market Volatility Halts On Soft Inflation Data, Yet Traders Remain Wary Of Fighting The Fed: 10 ETFs Moving Friday</a></li>
</ul>
Photo via Shutterstock

Government Shutdown Threat: Holiday Travel, Paychecks Could Face Delays If No Deal Reached

On Monday, the Nebraska Attorney General filed a lawsuit against UnitedHealth Group&#8217;s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UNH#NYSE">UNH</a>) Change Healthcare Inc., and Optum Inc., alleging severe violations of Nebraska&#8217;s Consumer Protection Act and other laws following a data breach that exposed sensitive information of 575,000 Nebraskans.
The lawsuit accuses the defendants of failing to prevent the breach and mishandling its aftermath, which disrupted healthcare services statewide.
The breach, first disclosed in February this year via UnitedHealth&#8217;s filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission, was initially downplayed as an &#8220;isolated&#8221; <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/large-cap/24/02/37284799/whats-going-on-with-unitedhealth-stock-friday" rel="noreferrer noopener">cybersecurity threat</a>.
However, the shutdown of Change Healthcare&#8217;s systems triggered a healthcare crisis, halting medical claims <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/large-cap/24/04/38388554/patient-data-compromised-unitedhealth-group-admits-ransom-payment-in-cyberattack" rel="noreferrer noopener">processing for millions of transactions</a>.
Nebraska&#8217;s healthcare providers struggled to maintain operations as critical services like prior authorizations for prescriptions and patient care were delayed.
The <a target="_blank" href="https://ago.nebraska.gov/sites/default/files/doc/Court%20Filing_10.pdf" rel="noreferrer noopener">lawsuit</a> alleges that outdated systems, inadequate segmentation, and the lack of redundancies at Change Healthcare exacerbated the crisis.
The shutdown, which lasted from late February to mid-March 2024, caused severe operational disruptions, leaving healthcare providers to deliver care without compensation and creating opportunities for scammers to <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/large-cap/24/03/37989390/unitedhealths-cyberattack-company-provides-aid-of-over-3b-to-affected-providers" rel="noreferrer noopener">target affected patients</a>.
A survey by the American Hospital Association reported that 74% of hospitals experienced direct impacts on patient care, with larger health systems reportedly losing over $100 million daily during the outage.
Despite the significant fallout, the defendants delayed notifying affected individuals. Direct communication to victims began only in late July 2024, five months after the breach was discovered, and even then, not all affected individuals were notified.
The Attorney General&#8217;s office asserts that this delay violates Nebraska law and left residents vulnerable to identity theft and financial harm.
The lawsuit seeks to hold UnitedHealth, Change Healthcare, and Optum accountable for the breach and its cascading effects on Nebraska&#8217;s citizens and healthcare infrastructure.
Price Action: UNH stock is up 1.12% at $494.72 at the last check on Friday.
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/24/12/42615254/winnebago-industries-stock-falls-after-q1-earnings-miss-amid-challenging-marine-operating-environment" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Winnebago Industries Stock Falls After Q1 Earnings Miss Amid Challenging Marine Operating Environment</a></li>
</ul>
Image via Shutterstock

Large Cap

Health Care

General

Nebraska Attorney General Sues UnitedHealth Over Massive Data Breach That Disrupted Healthcare

Murder suspect Luigi Mangione was extradited from Pennsylvania to New York on Thursday and faced his first federal court appearance after receiving <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/legal/24/12/42593013/luigi-mangione-faces-extradition-possible-federal-charges-may-carry-death-penalty">new federal charges.</a>
What Happened: Mangione, who is the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/health-care/24/12/42316904/unitedhealthcare-ceo-brian-thompson-fatally-shot-outside-nyc-hotel">suspect in the murder</a> of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, appeared in a New York federal court Thursday to hear and discuss the four federal counts he now faces in the case.
The federal charges include murder through use of a firearm and stalking, according to <a href="https://www.cnn.com/us/live-news/the-latest-on-the-unitedhealthcare-ceo-killing-suspect-12-19-24/index.html">CNN</a>. Also wanted on state charges in Pennsylvania and New York, Mangione was taken into federal custody around 1 p.m. ET Thursday before being transported to New York.
The unsealed federal complaint showed that the notebook found in Mangione's possession when arrested at the Pennsylvania McDonald's included handwritten pages criticizing the health insurance sector and wealthy executives.
An entry in the notebook dated Aug. 15 said, "The details are finally coming together." The entry said procrastination had allowed Mangione to learn more about the redacted company he was targeting.
"The target is insurance…it checks every box," is also found in the notebook alleged to belong to Mangione, according to the federal complaint.
The notebook also references the investor conference that Thompson was set to attend.
"This investor conference is a true windfall."
Traveling across state lines and the "use of interstate facilities" to carry out the attack led to federal prosecutors claiming jurisdiction in the case.
The UnitedHealthcare CEO was believed to have been targeted by Mangione as the CEO of the insurance unit of UnitedHealth Group (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UNH#NYSE">UNH</a>), one of the largest health insurance companies in the United States, according to the complaint.
On Thursday, Mangione was flown via helicopter from Pennsylvania to New York to meet with his lawyers ahead of the federal court appearance.
Mangione told Magistrate Judge Katharine Parker that he had seen the federal charges and understood what he was accused of.
Mangione's lawyers did not request bail at the Thursday hearing, but noted that they reserve the right to do so in the future.
After the federal court appearance, U.S. Marshals escorted Mangione out of the courtroom.
Mangione will be held in the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn, the lone New York City federal prison. Rapper Sean "Diddy" Combs is also being held at the same facility awaiting trial on federal charges.
Among the lawyers on Mangione's defense team is Karen Friedman Agnifilo, whose husband, Marc Agnifilo, is representing Diddy.
Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/legal/24/12/42418763/unitedhealthcare-ceo-murder-suspect-chronic-pain-unabomber-fascination-isolation-details-emerge">UnitedHealthcare CEO Murder Suspect: Chronic Pain, Unabomber Fascination, Isolation Details Emerge</a>
Why It's Important: Thursday's extradition was far from normal course, with New York City Mayor Eric Adams joining the helipad escort of Mangione after the murder suspect arrived in New York.
"This act of terrorism and the violence that stems from (Mangione's case) is something that will not be tolerated in the city. We wanted to personally be here to show the symbolism of leading from the front," Adams told reporters, according to CNN.
Adams said that cheering for Mangione's alleged actions "sends the wrong message" about gun violence.
"You're celebrating using violence to solve an issue."
The public escort by the helipad was unusual for a federal suspect, CNN reported. The very public display of Mangione comes as federal authorities often avoid "perp walks" that can attract supporters and a large media presence. Perp walks can also be viewed as "prejudicial," CNN senior correspondent Evan Pérez said.
What's Next: The federal and state case in New York will "proceed in parallel," the Manhattan District Attorney's office said Thursday, as reported by CNN.
Mangione faces 11 counts in the state of New York, including murder in the first degree, which carries a maximum sentence of prison without parole. The federal charges could see Mangione eligible for the death penalty if convicted of murder.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/entertainment/24/12/42544499/luigi-mangione-documentaries-in-the-works-from-award-winning-creators-and-possibly-rapper-50-cent">Benzinga recently reported</a> that at least three documentaries are in the works on the life of Mangione and the health insurance industry. ABC, a unit of The Walt Disney Company (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DIS#NYSE">DIS</a>), is airing a special edition of &#8220;20/20&#8221; at 10 p.m. ET Thursday. The episode will look at the death of Thompson, the search for Mangione and more on the suspected killer&#8217;s life.
Read Next: 
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/media/24/12/42473433/joe-rogan-on-public-sympathy-for-unitedhealthcare-ceo-murder-suspect-health-insurance-a-dirty-dirty-business">Joe Rogan On Public Sympathy For UnitedHealthcare CEO Murder Suspect: Health Insurance A &#8216;Dirty, Dirty Business&#8217;</a></li>
</ul>
Photo courtesy of Pennsylvania State Police.

Luigi Mangione's Notebook Reveals Plot, Feds Say: UnitedHealth Group Investor Conference Called 'True Windfall'

According to a report, U.S. healthcare spending grew by 7.5% to $4.9 trillion in 2023. The increase was fueled by higher enrollment in private health plans and expanded use of medical services, driven by legislative changes and post-pandemic rebounds in care utilization.
Healthcare spending accounted for 17.6% of the U.S. economy, outpacing GDP growth of 2.9%. Spending on retail prescription drugs <a target="_blank" href="https://www.healthaffairs.org/doi/full/10.1377/hlthaff.2024.01375" rel="noreferrer noopener">saw</a> the most significant rise, jumping 11.4% to $449.7 billion.
The report attributed this to increased use of medications for obesity and diabetes.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/regulations/24/11/41866438/donald-trumps-second-term-could-reshape-us-healthcare-system-with-major-impacts-on-affordable-care-act-and-medicare" rel="noreferrer noopener">Donald Trump&#8217;s Second Term Could Reshape US Healthcare System, With Major Impacts on Affordable Care Act And Medicare</a>
The rapid growth in spending for drugs used to treat diabetes and obesity contributed to faster overall growth in retail prescription drug expenditures and private health insurance and Medicare spending growth.
Hospital care spending rose 10.4% to $1.5 trillion in 2023, marking the fastest growth since 1990. Hospital discharges increased by 1.6%, with Medicare beneficiaries driving higher outpatient service utilization.
Spending on physician and clinical services also climbed by 7.4% to $978 billion, with private insurance and Medicare patients contributing to this rise.
Enrollment in private health insurance grew by 1.6%, adding 3.3 million Americans.
Private insurance spending surged by 11.5%, reaching $1.5 trillion and accounting for 30% of national healthcare expenditures.
Medicare spending grew 8.1% to $1 trillion, representing 21% of total healthcare spending. Medicaid spending, however, grew more slowly at 7.9%, reflecting the end of the COVID-19 public health emergency.
The report also revealed that 92.5% of Americans had health insurance in 2023, up from 92.0% in 2022, underscoring the broader coverage expansion in recent years.
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/24/12/42599673/amazon-has-20000-rivian-electric-delivery-vans-in-fleet-heres-what-could-be-next-for-both-companies">Amazon Has 20,000 Rivian Electric Delivery Vans In Fleet: Here&#8217;s What Could Be Next For Both Companies</a></li>
</ul>
Photo by MargJohnsonVA via Shutterstock

Biotech

streetTRACKS Dow Jones U.S. Large Cap Value Index Fund

iShares Dow Jones US Pharmaceuticals Index Fund

iShares Dow Jones US Health Care Provides Index Fund

iShares Trust Dow Jones US Healthcare Sector Index Fund

Your Healthcare Costs are Soaring! US Spending Reached $5 Trillion In 2023 with Major Increase in Obesity and Diabetes Drugs, Hospital Services

Murder suspect Luigi Mangione faces extradition to New York after his arrest in connection with the death of UnitedHealthcare&#8216;s CEO. After <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/legal/24/12/42423214/luigi-mangione-fights-extradition-to-new-york-on-murder-charge-shouts-at-press-outside-courthouse">previously fighting</a> a transfer back to New York, he is expected to waive his extradition Thursday.
What Happened: Mangione, who was recently<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/legal/24/12/42541669/luigi-mangione-indicted-on-first-degree-murder-charges-in-unitedhealthcare-ceos-death-senseless-act-of-violence"> charged with murder</a> in the first degree, will appear in court Thursday in the state of Pennsylvania.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/health-care/24/12/42316904/unitedhealthcare-ceo-brian-thompson-fatally-shot-outside-nyc-hotel">Charged with killing </a>UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, Mangione is expected to waive extradition to New York, according to his attorney, ABC News <a href="https://abcnews.go.com/US/unitedhealthcare-ceo-killing-latest-mangione-expected-court-extradition/story?id=116936089">reported</a>.
On Thursday, a Pennsylvania judge will be asked to accept the extradition waiver or move forward with a hearing on Mangione's charges in the state, which center on weapons, including the ghost gun found when he was arrested at an Altoona, Pennsylvania McDonald&#8217;s. 
If the judge agrees to the extradition, Mangione would be transported back to the state of New York by the New York Police Department. The murder suspect could be arraigned in New York as early as Thursday.
Mangione faces 11 counts in the state of New York including a murder in the first degree charge that carries a sentence of up to life in prison without parole if convicted and two charges of murder in the second degree, including one charge related to terrorism.
The indictment is &#8220;for the brazen, targeted and premeditated shooting of Brian Thompson,&#8221; Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg said recently after reading off the charges.
Law enforcement said Mangione could also face federal charges in New York, which could lead to him being eligible for the death penalty if found guilty.
Mangione's lawyer Karen Friedman Agnifilo said they are ready to fight the charges in a statement reported by ABC news.
"The federal government's reported decision to pile on top of an already overcharged first-degree murder and state terror case is highly unusual and raises serious constitutional and statutory double jeopardy concerns," Agnifilo said.
Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/legal/24/12/42418763/unitedhealthcare-ceo-murder-suspect-chronic-pain-unabomber-fascination-isolation-details-emerge">UnitedHealthcare CEO Murder Suspect: Chronic Pain, Unabomber Fascination, Isolation Details Emerge</a> Why It's Important: The death of Thompson, who led the UnitedHealth Group (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UNH#NYSE">UNH</a>)-owned insurance unit, has sparked a large following for Mangione, with some members of the public voicing sympathy and supporting his cause of taking on the health insurance sector.
Outside the Pennsylvania courthouse are supporters with signs with words like "Free Luigi," "Murder for Profit is Terrorism" and "Deny, Defend, Depose."
Mangione&#8217;s arrest at a Pennsylvania&nbsp;McDonald&#8217;s&nbsp;triggered a rise&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/restaurants/24/12/42427146/pennsylvania-mcdonalds-where-unitedhealthcare-ceo-murder-suspect-arrested-gets-review-bombed-more-like-narc-donalds" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">in negative reviews</a>&nbsp;for the location, accusing the restaurant employees and patrons of being snitches.
Public sympathy for Mangione can be found on social media. On a&nbsp;Joe Rogan&nbsp;podcast episode,<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/media/24/12/42473433/joe-rogan-on-public-sympathy-for-unitedhealthcare-ceo-murder-suspect-health-insurance-a-dirty-dirty-business" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">&nbsp;the host</a>&nbsp;said the health insurance sector is a &#8220;dirty business.&#8221;
Rogan suggested UnitedHealthcare&#8217;s alleged high claim denial rate may have been a reason why the public is not showing sympathy for Thompson.
A manifesto document found on Mangione reportedly contained comments about health insurance companies focusing on profits and greed over public health.
Benzinga recently reported there are at least three documentaries in the works on the life of Mangione and the health insurance industry. ABC, which is a unit of The Walt Disney Company (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DIS#NYSE">DIS</a>), is airing a special edition of "20/20" at 10 p.m. ET Thursday. The episode will look at the death of Thompson, the search for Mangione and more on the suspected killer's life.
UNH Price Action: UnitedHealth stock trades at $503.91 in premarket trading Thursday versus a 52-week trading range of $436.38 to $630.73. The stock is down 13% over the last month and down 7% year-to-date in 2024.
Read Next: 
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/entertainment/24/12/42544499/luigi-mangione-documentaries-in-the-works-from-award-winning-creators-and-possibly-rapper-50-cent">Luigi Mangione Documentaries In The Works From Award-Winning Creators — And Possibly Rapper 50 Cent</a></li>
</ul>
Photo courtesy of Pennsylvania State Police.

Luigi Mangione Faces Extradition, Possible Federal Charges May Carry Death Penalty

WIIM

Shares of pharmacy benefit managers and insurance stocks are trading higher. The sector may be rebounding after falling on recent comments from President-elect Trump criticizing the space.

This whale alert can help traders discover the next big trading opportunities.
Whales are entities with large sums of money and we track their transactions here at Benzinga on our options activity scanner.
Traders will search for circumstances when the market estimation of an option diverges heavily from its normal worth. High amounts of trading activity could push option prices to exaggerated or underestimated levels. 
Below are some instances of options activity happening in the Health Care sector: 
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th>Open Interest</th>
<th>Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>CRDF</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$5.00</td>
<td>$56.3K</td>
<td>1.0K</td>
<td>1.1K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>UNH</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$500.00</td>
<td>$51.9K</td>
<td>2.4K</td>
<td>687</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>HIMS</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>12/20/24</td>
<td>$32.00</td>
<td>$34.4K</td>
<td>2.0K</td>
<td>648</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>VKTX</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$37.00</td>
<td>$47.5K</td>
<td>1.8K</td>
<td>321</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>PEN</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>07/18/25</td>
<td>$280.00</td>
<td>$52.2K</td>
<td>0</td>
<td>223</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>NMRA</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$15.00</td>
<td>$36.0K</td>
<td>13.7K</td>
<td>104</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MRK</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$90.00</td>
<td>$25.0K</td>
<td>3.6K</td>
<td>50</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>NVO</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>12/20/24</td>
<td>$97.00</td>
<td>$25.8K</td>
<td>28</td>
<td>46</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>CI</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>04/17/25</td>
<td>$290.00</td>
<td>$29.8K</td>
<td>26</td>
<td>42</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>LLY</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$780.00</td>
<td>$127.8K</td>
<td>238</td>
<td>27</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h2>Explanation</h2>
These itemized elaborations have been created using the accompanying table. 
• Regarding CRDF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CRDF#NASDAQ">CRDF</a>), we observe a call option sweep with bullish sentiment. It expires in 30 day(s) on January 17, 2025. Parties traded 663 contract(s) at a $5.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 6 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $56.3K, with a price of $88.0 per contract. There were 1040 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 1104 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For UNH (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UNH#NYSE">UNH</a>), we notice a call option sweep that happens to be neutral, expiring in 30 day(s) on January 17, 2025. This event was a transfer of 21 contract(s) at a $500.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 5 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $51.9K, with a price of $2480.0 per contract. There were 2415 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 687 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For HIMS (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HIMS#NYSE">HIMS</a>), we notice a put option sweep that happens to be bullish, expiring in 2 day(s) on December 20, 2024. This event was a transfer of 128 contract(s) at a $32.00 strike. This particular put needed to be split into 9 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $34.4K, with a price of $279.0 per contract. There were 2000 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 648 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding VKTX (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VKTX#NASDAQ">VKTX</a>), we observe a put option sweep with bullish sentiment. It expires in 30 day(s) on January 17, 2025. Parties traded 250 contract(s) at a $37.00 strike. This particular put needed to be split into 41 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $47.5K, with a price of $190.0 per contract. There were 1897 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 321 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For PEN (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PEN#NYSE">PEN</a>), we notice a call option trade that happens to be bullish, expiring in 212 day(s) on July 18, 2025. This event was a transfer of 25 contract(s) at a $280.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $52.2K, with a price of $2090.0 per contract. There were 0 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 223 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding NMRA (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NMRA#NASDAQ">NMRA</a>), we observe a call option trade with neutral sentiment. It expires in 30 day(s) on January 17, 2025. Parties traded 100 contract(s) at a $15.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $36.0K, with a price of $360.0 per contract. There were 13769 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 104 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding MRK (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>), we observe a put option trade with bullish sentiment. It expires in 394 day(s) on January 16, 2026. Parties traded 50 contract(s) at a $90.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $25.0K, with a price of $500.0 per contract. There were 3611 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 50 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding NVO (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVO#NYSE">NVO</a>), we observe a call option trade with bearish sentiment. It expires in 2 day(s) on December 20, 2024. Parties traded 22 contract(s) at a $97.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $25.8K, with a price of $1175.0 per contract. There were 28 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 46 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For CI (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CI#NYSE">CI</a>), we notice a call option sweep that happens to be neutral, expiring in 120 day(s) on April 17, 2025. This event was a transfer of 15 contract(s) at a $290.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 3 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $29.8K, with a price of $1990.0 per contract. There were 26 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 42 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For LLY (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LLY#NYSE">LLY</a>), we notice a put option sweep that happens to be neutral, expiring in 184 day(s) on June 20, 2025. This event was a transfer of 18 contract(s) at a $780.00 strike. This particular put needed to be split into 4 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $127.8K, with a price of $7105.0 per contract. There were 238 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 27 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
Options Alert Terminology 
 - Call Contracts: The right to buy shares as indicated in the contract. 
 - Put Contracts: The right to sell shares as indicated in the contract. 
 - Expiration Date: When the contract expires. One must act on the contract by this date if one wants to use it. 
 - Premium/Option Price: The price of the contract. 
For more information, visit our <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/blog/how-to-understand-option-alerts/">Guide to Understanding Options Alerts</a> or read <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/options">more about unusual options activity</a>. 
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

CRDF

Hims & Hers Health, Inc. Class A Common Stock

HIMS

NMRA

VKTX

10 Health Care Stocks With Whale Alerts In Today's Session

Financial giants have made a conspicuous bullish move on UnitedHealth Group. Our analysis of options history for UnitedHealth Group (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UNH#NYSE">UNH</a>) revealed 10 unusual trades.
Delving into the details, we found 70% of traders were bullish, while 20% showed bearish tendencies. Out of all the trades we spotted, 2 were puts, with a value of $91,279, and 8 were calls, valued at $401,727.
<h3>What's The Price Target?</h3>
Taking into account the Volume and Open Interest on these contracts, it appears that whales have been targeting a price range from $380.0 to $600.0 for UnitedHealth Group over the last 3 months. 
<h3>Volume &amp; Open Interest Development</h3>
Examining the volume and open interest provides crucial insights into stock research. This information is key in gauging liquidity and interest levels for UnitedHealth Group's options at certain strike prices. Below, we present a snapshot of the trends in volume and open interest for calls and puts across UnitedHealth Group's significant trades, within a strike price range of $380.0 to $600.0, over the past month.
<h3>UnitedHealth Group Call and Put Volume: 30-Day Overview</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1734534022_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" />
<h3>Biggest Options Spotted:</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>Open Interest</th>
<th>Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>UNH</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$6.95</td>
<td>$6.5</td>
<td>$6.95</td>
<td>$550.00</td>
<td>$105.0K</td>
<td>3.4K</td>
<td>1.2K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>UNH</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$6.95</td>
<td>$6.5</td>
<td>$6.93</td>
<td>$550.00</td>
<td>$94.6K</td>
<td>3.4K</td>
<td>1.0K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>UNH</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>03/21/25</td>
<td>$59.75</td>
<td>$53.3</td>
<td>$56.31</td>
<td>$530.00</td>
<td>$50.6K</td>
<td>450</td>
<td>9</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>UNH</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>12/20/24</td>
<td>$61.15</td>
<td>$58.0</td>
<td>$58.0</td>
<td>$550.00</td>
<td>$40.6K</td>
<td>445</td>
<td>7</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>UNH</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$15.65</td>
<td>$14.15</td>
<td>$15.65</td>
<td>$600.00</td>
<td>$39.1K</td>
<td>1.4K</td>
<td>29</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h3>About UnitedHealth Group</h3>
UnitedHealth Group is one of the largest private health insurers, providing medical benefits to about 50 million members globally, including 1 million outside the us as June 2024. As a leader in employer-sponsored, self-directed, and government-backed insurance plans, UnitedHealth has obtained massive scale in managed care. Along with its insurance assets, UnitedHealth's continued investments in its Optum franchises have created a healthcare services colossus that spans everything from medical and pharmaceutical benefits to providing outpatient care and analytics to both affiliated and third-party customers.
Having examined the options trading patterns of UnitedHealth Group, our attention now turns directly to the company. This shift allows us to delve into its present market position and performance
<h3>UnitedHealth Group's Current Market Status</h3>
<ul>
<li>Currently trading with a volume of 1,294,763, the UNH's price is up by 2.85%, now at $499.35. </li>
<li>RSI readings suggest the stock is currently may be oversold.</li>
<li>Anticipated earnings release is in 23 days.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Professional Analyst Ratings for UnitedHealth Group</h3>
4 market experts have recently issued ratings for this stock, with a consensus target price of $648.75.
Unusual Options Activity Detected: Smart Money on the Move
Benzinga Edge's Unusual Options board spots potential market movers before they happen. See what positions big money is taking on your favorite stocks. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/benzinga-edge-checkout/?t=Be8be9arja3be22bz20&amp;utm_source=benzinga-insights">Click here for access</a>. 
&#x2A; Consistent in their evaluation, an analyst from Barclays keeps a Overweight rating on UnitedHealth Group with a target price of $655. 
&#x2A; An analyst from Stephens &amp; Co. has decided to maintain their Overweight rating on UnitedHealth Group, which currently sits at a price target of $675. 
&#x2A; An analyst from Deutsche Bank has decided to maintain their Buy rating on UnitedHealth Group, which currently sits at a price target of $625. 
&#x2A; An analyst from Oppenheimer has decided to maintain their Outperform rating on UnitedHealth Group, which currently sits at a price target of $640. 
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 UnitedHealth Group with <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a> for real-time alerts.

Decoding UnitedHealth Group's Options Activity: What's the Big Picture?

Pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) – key intermediaries in the U.S. pharmaceutical supply chain – have come under scrutiny for their role in exacerbating the opioid epidemic.
While presenting themselves as proactive in curbing opioid abuse, PBMs quietly profited from arrangements with drugmakers that undermined safeguards against overprescribing, a recent <a target="_blank" href="https://www.nytimes.com/2024/12/17/business/pharmacy-benefit-managers-opioids.html" rel="noreferrer noopener">investigation</a> by The New York Times reveals.
The three largest PBMs—UnitedHealth Group Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UNH#NYSE">UNH</a>),&nbsp;through its Optum unit,&nbsp;CVS Health Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CVS#NYSE">CVS</a>) via CVS Caremark, and&nbsp;Cigna Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CI#NYSE">CI</a>) through Express Scripts oversee prescription drug access for over 200 million Americans.
Several state and local governments have filed lawsuits against drug companies and PBMs, accusing them of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/08/40560002/governments-suing-pharmacy-benefit-managers-over-insulin-prices-have-long-benefited-from-their-r" rel="noreferrer noopener">inflating insulin prices</a>.
These companies negotiate drug prices on behalf of insurers and employers, often collecting rebates from manufacturers in exchange for favorable placement on insurance formularies.
However, the NYT report says that internal documents reveal that PBMs repeatedly bargained away restrictions that could have curbed opioid misuse in exchange for lucrative rebates.
For example, Purdue Pharma, the maker of OxyContin, explicitly offered rebates to PBMs to remove limits on prescribing their drugs. These deals eliminated prior authorization requirements and allowed higher prescription doses than <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/large-cap/24/06/39531087/purdue-pharma-bankruptcy-plan-rejected-by-supreme-court-billionaire-sacklers-to-face-lawsuits" rel="noreferrer noopener">federal guidelines suggested</a>.
Internal communications from Purdue and PBMs celebrated these arrangements as boosting sales while ensuring favorable drug coverage.
The NYT investigation highlights that opioid manufacturers paid staggering rebates to PBMs.
Between 2003 and 2012, Purdue's annual rebates for OxyContin nearly doubled to $400 million. PBMs retained a portion of these funds while passing some to their clients, incentivizing insurers to avoid imposing prescribing restrictions.
PBMs sometimes actively worked with manufacturers to prevent insurers from introducing safeguards. The lack of restrictions directly contributed to the worsening opioid crisis, the report said.
High prescription thresholds and unrestricted access facilitated overprescribing and fueled addiction.
One 2015 study found that patients receiving doses well below the thresholds negotiated by PBMs were still at significantly increased risk of overdose and death.
Despite mounting evidence and public pressure, PBMs prioritized revenue over patient safety, according to the report. In 2017, as public outrage over the opioid epidemic grew, Express Scripts and Optum Rx delayed introducing safety measures, citing potential losses from reduced rebates.
Some executives within these companies voiced frustration over prioritizing profits over lives, highlighting the ethical conflict at play.
Although PBMs later implemented stricter opioid controls following federal and state pressures, the damage was already done.
Critics argue that these measures were motivated more by public relations concerns than a genuine commitment to ending the crisis.
According to a Bloomberg&nbsp;report, Trump said he plans to "knock out" PBMs, or so-called drug middlemen, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42517567/cvs-cigna-unitedhealth-shares-slide-as-trump-targets-drug-middleman" rel="noreferrer noopener">from the industry</a>.
In September, the&nbsp;FTC filed a complaint&nbsp;accusing the PBMs of creating a system that benefits them financially by prioritizing drug rebates, forcing patients to pay higher costs for life-saving insulin.
These PBMs, referred to as the Big Three, administer around 80% of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/large-cap/24/09/40964870/us-federal-trade-commission-sues-cvs-health-cigna-unitedhealths-pharmacy-benefit-managers-for-infl" rel="noreferrer noopener">prescriptions in the U.S</a>.
However, the PBMs argue that this action seeks to upend current drug rebate contracts and disrupt long-standing practices, all while expanding the FTC's authority <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/health-care/24/11/42097386/cvs-healthcignaunitedhealths-pharmacy-benefit-managers-accuse-ftc-of-overreach-in-effort-to-reshape-drug-rebate-system" rel="noreferrer noopener">beyond traditional limits</a>.
Price Action: At last check Wednesday, CI stock was up 4.34% to $277.12, CVS stock was up 2.97% to $45.35, and UNH stock was up 2.13% to $495.35.
Read Next:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/emerging-markets/24/12/42552200/sony-semiconductor-hits-20-billion-image-sensor-shipments-plans-expansion" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sony Semiconductor Hits 20 Billion Image Sensor Shipments, Plans Expansion</a></li>
</ul>
Photo via Shutterstock

Media

Pharmacy Benefit Managers Played Key Role in Worsening Opioid Crisis, Drug Makers Paid Staggering Rebates To Middlemen: NYT

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When it comes to documentary series, true crime and murder suspects have become a staple for content creators, which could explain why several movies and series could be in the works detailing Luigi Mangione's life, as he awaits trial<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/health-care/24/12/42316904/unitedhealthcare-ceo-brian-thompson-fatally-shot-outside-nyc-hotel"> for allegedly killing</a> UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson.
What Happened: On Tuesday, Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42541669/luigi-mangione-faces-murder-first-degree-life-in-prison-in-ceo-death-a-senseless-act-of-violence">announced upgraded charges</a> for Mangione in the death of Thompson. The 26-year-old now faces 11 charges, which include murder in the first degree that could see Mangione spend life behind bars if convicted.
Prior to the new charges, several entertainment companies announced plans for documentaries exploring the life of Mangione and the case that has captured worldwide attention.
Anonymous Content and Alex Gibney's Jigsaw Productions are working on a documentary on the shooting and story, according to a report from <a href="https://variety.com/2024/film/news/luigi-mangione-documentary-unitedhealthcare-1236250260/">Variety</a>. Gibney won the Academy Award for Best Documentary for "Taxi to the Dark Side" in 2008 and is well-known for several projects including "Enron: The Smartest Guys in the Room."
The project, which is the third collaboration from Anonymous and Jigsaw, will explore what the killing means for America and the value placed on people who live and die, according to the report. The documentary will also look into the current frustrations Americans have with the health insurance sector amid rising costs and higher claim denial rates.
Gibney is also <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/entertainment/23/03/31245565/unvarnished-examination-of-elon-musk-new-documentary-from-oscar-winner-coming-heres-what-te">working on a film</a> about Tesla CEO Elon Musk that he said would be the "definitive and unvarnished examination of" the billionaire. Musk called the movie a potential "hit piece."
Another documentary on Mangione from Emmy nominee Stephen Robert Morse has also been announced. The documentary from Morse follows his recent "Amanda Knox" and "How to Rob a Bank" directed documentaries that streamed on Netflix Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NFLX#NASDAQ">NFLX</a>), as reported by <a href="https://variety.com/2024/tv/global/luigi-mangione-documentary-stephen-robert-morse-amanda-knox-1236250741/">Variety</a>.
The documentary will look at the life of Mangione and the families of those involved in the case and also look at the health insurance sector.
"My goal is to present a balanced exploration of United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson's assassination, showing all sides of the story while respecting the profound loss of life and its impact on everyone involved," Morse said.
While Netflix is not attached to the project, the past history between Morse and the streamer could give the company the inside track if it wants the documentary.
Investigation Discovery, which is a unit of Warner Bros. Discovery (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WBD#NASDAQ">WBD</a>), is working on a one-hour special produced by Dan Abrams. The special has a working title of "Who Is Luigi Mangione?" and could premiere on the network and other Warner-owned assets in February, according to a <a href="https://variety.com/2024/tv/news/investigation-discovery-luigi-mangione-special-dan-abrams-1236251150/">Variety </a>report.
The special will look at "the lingering questions surrounding Mangione's arrest" and how a person born into wealth went on to commit a murder. Abrams, who is an ABC News correspondent and SiriusXM show host, will be featured on the special along with other experts and people close to Mangione.
Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/legal/24/12/42418763/unitedhealthcare-ceo-murder-suspect-chronic-pain-unabomber-fascination-isolation-details-emerge">UnitedHealthcare CEO Murder Suspect: Chronic Pain, Unabomber Fascination, Isolation Details Emerge</a>
50 Cent Praises Mangione: Rapper and actor 50 Cent expressed a desire to make a documentary of Mangione, which comes after he recently <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/entertainment/24/05/38968131/diddy-do-it-documentary-on-embattled-rapper-snapped-up-by-worlds-biggest-streaming-platform">sold a documentary</a> about rapper Diddy on the allegations of sexual assault to Netflix.
50 Cent expressed praise for Mangione in a since-deleted social media post, as <a href="https://www.vibe.com/news/movies-tv/50-cent-documentary-alleged-unitedhealthcare-shooter-1234959771/">reported </a>by Vibe.
"I don't know, I kinda like this killer," the rapper said. "I'm sorry this is going this way it is but I'm doing a documentary on him, he is special! I apologize in advance for anyone who doesn't understand."
The rapper said learning of Mangione's alleged manifesto which detailed some potential motives for the alleged murder of Thompson is worth making a documentary about and bringing the story to the public.
Why It's Important: The public has been drawn to the murder story as Mangione was a promising business grad born into wealth. His back injury may have led to a fight against the health care industry.
People on social media<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/restaurants/24/12/42427146/pennsylvania-mcdonalds-where-unitedhealthcare-ceo-murder-suspect-arrested-gets-review-bombed-more-like-narc-donalds"> have praised Mangione</a> and feel sympathetic for the alleged killer, which may make these documentaries highly anticipated and widely watched.
Read Next: 
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/media/24/12/42473433/joe-rogan-on-public-sympathy-for-unitedhealthcare-ceo-murder-suspect-health-insurance-a-dirty-dirty-business">Joe Rogan On Public Sympathy For UnitedHealthcare CEO Murder Suspect: Health Insurance A &#8216;Dirty, Dirty Business&#8217;</a></li>
</ul>
Photo: Via the Pennsylvania State Police

Entertainment

NFLX

Luigi Mangione Documentaries In The Works From Award-Winning Creators — And Possibly Rapper 50 Cent

Murder suspect Luigi Mangione was indicted Tuesday on upgraded murder charges in the death of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson and will no longer fight extradition from<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/legal/24/12/42423214/luigi-mangione-fights-extradition-to-new-york-on-murder-charge-shouts-at-press-outside-courthouse"> Pennsylvania to New York.</a>
What Happened: Thompson, who was the CEO of UnitedHealth Group (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UNH#NYSE">UNH</a>)&#8217;s insurance unit UnitedHealthcare, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/health-care/24/12/42316904/unitedhealthcare-ceo-brian-thompson-fatally-shot-outside-nyc-hotel">was gunned down </a>Dec. 4 outside a Manhattan building. 
As the suspect in the case, Mangione faces an upgraded charge of first-degree murder along with two counts of murder in the second degree, which includes a charge of murder in the second degree as an act of terrorism, Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg announced Tuesday.
"Our work will never be able to undo the fact that a life was lost," Bragg said.
The upgraded first-degree murder charge comes in the state of New York, where a special list of elements are needed to charge a person with the crime, including the intention to commit terrorism, murder of a judge, cop or first responder or other special instances. 
The charges mean Mangione faces a potential sentence of life in prison without the possibility of parole if he is convicted, as reported by <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2024/12/17/us/luigi-mangione-ceo-shooting/index.html">CNN</a>.
The indictment is "for the brazen, targeted and premeditated shooting of Brian Thompson," Bragg said after reading off the charges.
Mangione's 11-count indictment also includes weapons and forgery charges.
The suspect's attorney Karen Friedman Agnifilo told CNN that he will not fight extradition to New York. A hearing is set for Thursday in Pennsylvania to decide on the next steps to return Mangione to New York.
New York City Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch said the indictment moves the case one step closer to getting justice for Thompson and his family. Tisch also provided comment on the growing praise Mangione is receiving as a potential hero, as <a href="https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/luigi-mangione-indicted-first-degree-murder-charge-grand-jury-unitedhe-rcna184313">reported </a>by NBC News.
"This was a senseless act of violence. It was a cold and calculated crime that stole a life and put New Yorkers at risk. We don't celebrate murders, and we don't lionize the killing of anyone," Tisch said.
Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/legal/24/12/42418763/unitedhealthcare-ceo-murder-suspect-chronic-pain-unabomber-fascination-isolation-details-emerge">UnitedHealthcare CEO Murder Suspect: Chronic Pain, Unabomber Fascination, Isolation Details Emerge</a>
Why It's Important: The murder case has been closely followed by residents of New York and brought worldwide attention due to the potential motive of Mangione lashing out over the alleged corporate greed of the health insurance industry.
While Mangione and his immediate family were not insured by UnitedHealthcare, the company may have been a target due to its massive size.
Mangione's arrest at a Pennsylvania McDonald's saw a rise <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/restaurants/24/12/42427146/pennsylvania-mcdonalds-where-unitedhealthcare-ceo-murder-suspect-arrested-gets-review-bombed-more-like-narc-donalds">in negative reviews</a> for the location, accusing the restaurant employees and patrons of being snitches. 
Public sympathy for Mangione can be found on social media. A recent Joe Rogan podcast episode<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/media/24/12/42473433/joe-rogan-on-public-sympathy-for-unitedhealthcare-ceo-murder-suspect-health-insurance-a-dirty-dirty-business"> saw the host</a> say the health insurance sector is a "dirty business."
Rogan suggested UnitedHealthcare's alleged high claim denial rate may have been a reason why the public was not showing sympathy for Thompson.
&#8220;It&#8217;s a dirty, dirty business. The business of insurance is f&#x2A;&#x2A;&#x2A;ing gross. It&#8217;s gross. Especially health care insurance,&#8221; Rogan said.
A manifesto document found on Mangione reportedly contained comments about health insurance companies focusing on profits and greed over public health.
Mangione reportedly suffered from chronic back pain, which kept him from activities like surfing and intimate relationships.
Members of Congress are&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/health-care/24/12/42450947/bipartisan-lawmakers-aim-to-break-up-health-care-giants-with-new-legislation" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">targeting the health insurance sector</a>&nbsp;and companies like UnitedHealth Group could be forced to divest portions of their business if a new bill is passed.
UNH Price Action: UnitedHealth stock was down 3% to $485.52 Tuesday versus a 52-week trading range of $436.38 to $630.73. The stock is down 10% year-to-date with shares down 18% over the last month.
Read Next: 
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/12/42445163/wack-the-ceo-at-a-convention-says-united-health-care-murder-suspect-luigi-mangione-in-papers-found-by-pa-cops">&#8216;Wack The CEO,&#8217; United Health Care Murder Suspect Luigi Mangione Says In Papers Found By Police</a></li>
</ul>
Photo via the Pennsylvania State Police.

Insurance

Luigi Mangione Indicted On First-Degree Murder Charge In UnitedHealthcare CEO's Death: 'Senseless Act Of Violence'

Shares of Pharmacy-benefit managers (PBMs) including&nbsp;CVS Health Corp&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CVS#NYSE">CVS</a>),&nbsp;UnitedHealth Group Inc&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UNH#NYSE">UNH</a>) and Cigna Group&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CI#NYSE">CI</a>) are moving lower Tuesday on continued downside pressure following aggressive commentary from President-elect&nbsp;Donald Trump&nbsp;regarding plans to cut <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42517567/cvs-cigna-unitedhealth-shares-slide-as-trump-targets-drug-middleman">drug middlemen out of the industry</a>.
What To Know: Trump on Monday announced plans to "knock out" PBMs, or so-called drug middlemen, from the healthcare industry, according to <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2024-12-16/trump-middleman-remark-sinks-cvs-unitedhealth-cigna-shares?srnd=homepage-americas&amp;sref=TBDibEcD">Bloomberg</a>. 
&#8220;You know the middleman, right? The horrible middleman that makes more money frankly than the drug companies, and they don&#8217;t do anything except they&#8217;re a middleman,&#8221; President-elect Trump said. &#8220;We&#8217;re going to knock out the middleman.&#8221;
CVS Health's Caremark,&nbsp;UnitedHealth's OptumRx and Cigna's Express Scripts are the three largest PBMs. The companies have faced repeated criticism for driving up the prices of drugs. The role of PBMs in the industry has seen increased attention in recent weeks following the murder&nbsp;of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/restaurants/24/12/42427146/pennsylvania-mcdonalds-where-unitedhealthcare-ceo-murder-suspect-arrested-gets-review-bombed-more-like-narc-donalds">UnitedHealthcare&nbsp;CEO&nbsp;Brian Thompson</a>.
Don&#8217;t Miss: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/health-care/24/12/42371469/blue-shields-500-million-drug-savings-initiative-with-amazon-pharmacy-can-potentially-launch-in-january">Blue Shield&#8217;s $500 Million Drug Savings Initiative With Amazon Pharmacy Can Potentially Launch In January</a>
Shares of CVS, UnitedHealth and Cigna all traded lower on Monday following Trump&#8217;s comments. The trio is moving lower again on Tuesday after Pfizer Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PFE#NYSE">PFE</a>) CEO Albert Bourla said Trump is &#8220;very committed&#8221; to implementing changes to stop drug middlemen from inflating prices. 
&#8220;The president has very strong views,&#8221; Bourla said on a call with analysts and investors Tuesday morning, before adding that Trump &#8220;wants transparency.&#8221;
"It seems to me that he is very committed to make this happen," the Pfizer CEO said.
Sen.&nbsp;Elizabeth Warren&nbsp;(D.-Mass.) and&nbsp;Sen. Josh Hawley&nbsp;(R.-Mo.) unveiled a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/health-care/24/12/42450947/bipartisan-lawmakers-aim-to-break-up-health-care-giants-with-new-legislation">new Senate bill</a> last week that would require the companies that own PBMs to divest those businesses within three years.
The proposed legislation is not expected to gain traction in Congress until next year. 
CVS, UNH CI Price Action: At the time of publication, CVS shares were down 5.48% at $44.01, UnitedHealth shares were down 2.66% at $485.15 and Cigna shares were down 2.84% at $265.54, according to <a href="http://pro.benzinga.com">Benzinga Pro</a>.
Photo: Shutterstock.

What's Going On With CVS Health, UnitedHealth And Cigna Group Shares?

Luigi Mangione Indicted For Murder Of UnitedHealthcare CEO

UnitedHealth Group's (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UNH#NYSE">UNH</a>) short percent of float has fallen 3.37% since its last report. The company recently reported that it has 7.92 million shares sold short, which is 0.86% of all regular shares that are available for trading. Based on its trading volume, it would take traders 2.57 days to cover their short positions on average.
<h3>Why Short Interest Matters</h3>
Short interest is the number of shares that have been sold short but have not yet been covered or closed out. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-short-a-stock/">Short selling</a> is when a trader sells shares of a company they do not own, with the hope that the price will fall. Traders make money from short selling if the price of the stock falls and they lose if it rises.
Short interest is important to track because it can act as an indicator of market sentiment towards a particular stock. An increase in short interest can signal that investors have become more bearish, while a decrease in short interest can signal they have become more bullish.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/short-interest">List of the most shorted stocks</a>
<h3>UnitedHealth Group Short Interest Graph (3 Months)</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1734457522_0.png" alt="short_fig" />
As you can see from the chart above the percentage of shares that are sold short for UnitedHealth Group has declined since its last report. This does not mean that the stock is going to rise in the near-term but traders should be aware that less shares are being shorted.
<h3>Comparing UnitedHealth Group's Short Interest Against Its Peers</h3>
Peer comparison is a popular technique amongst analysts and investors for gauging how well a company is performing. A company's peer is another company that has similar characteristics to it, such as industry, size, age, and financial structure. You can find a company's peer group by reading its 10-K, proxy filing, or by doing your own similarity analysis.
According to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/">Benzinga Pro</a>, UnitedHealth Group's peer group average for short interest as a percentage of float is 5.75%, which means the company has less short interest than most of its peers.
Did you know that increasing short interest can actually be bullish for a stock? <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-make-money-on-a-short-squeeze/">This post by Benzinga Money explains how you can profit from it.</a>
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and was reviewed by an editor.

Short Sellers

Looking Into UnitedHealth Group's Recent Short Interest

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This year, in the ongoing series "Health Care's Colossus," STAT says it documented how UnitedHealth (UNH) wielded its unrivaled physician empire to...

STAT says probe shows how UnitedHealth 'turned health care into assembly line'

The Dow Jones Industrial Average just notched a nine-day losing streak, its longest since 1978. UnitedHealth Group Inc. (UNH), the second-largest component of the price-weighted index, drove the weakness.

UNH And The Dow: What's Driving Recent Weakness...And What Lies Ahead

UnitedHealth: Don't Let The Market Fool You

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Press Releases

UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of New Mexico invests $250,000 to provide integrated health care services to K-12 students

UNITEDHEALTH ALERT: Bragar Eagel & Squire, P.C. is Investigating UnitedHealth Group Incorporated on Behalf of Long-Term Stockholders and Encourages Investors to Contact the Firm

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