Humana (HUM)


Market Price (11/9/2026): $433.74 | Market Cap: $52.1 BilSector: Health Care | Industry: Managed Health Care

Humana (HUM)


Market Price (11/9/2026): $433.74
Market Cap: $52.1 Bil
Sector: Health Care
Industry: Managed Health Care

Investment Highlights Why It Matters Detailed financial logic regarding cash flow yields vs trend-riding momentum.

0

Cash is significant % of market cap
Net D/ENet Debt/Equity. Debt net of cash. Negative indicates net cash. Equity is taken as the Market Capitalization is -24%

Attractive yield
FCF Yield is 6.0%

Stock buyback support
Stock Buyback 3Y Total is 1.6 Bil

Attractive cash flow generation
CFO LTM is 3.7 Bil, FCF LTM is 3.1 Bil

Low stock price volatility
Vol 12M is 46%

Megatrend and thematic drivers
Megatrends include Aging Population & Chronic Disease, and Digital Health & Telemedicine. Themes include Geriatric Care, Telehealth Platforms, Show more.

Trading close to highs
Dist 52W High is 0.0%

Weak multi-year price returns
3Y Excs Rtn is -82%

Expensive valuation multiples
P/EPrice/Earnings or Price/(Net Income) is 42x

Yield minus risk free rate is negative
ERPEquity Risk Premium (ERP) = Total Yield - Risk Free Rate, Reflects the premium above risk free assets offered by the investment. is -2.1%

Key risks
HUM key risks include [1] a significant and financially impactful decline in its Medicare Advantage Star Ratings, Show more.

0 Cash is significant % of market cap
Net D/ENet Debt/Equity. Debt net of cash. Negative indicates net cash. Equity is taken as the Market Capitalization is -24%
1 Attractive yield
FCF Yield is 6.0%
2 Stock buyback support
Stock Buyback 3Y Total is 1.6 Bil
3 Attractive cash flow generation
CFO LTM is 3.7 Bil, FCF LTM is 3.1 Bil
4 Low stock price volatility
Vol 12M is 46%
5 Megatrend and thematic drivers
Megatrends include Aging Population & Chronic Disease, and Digital Health & Telemedicine. Themes include Geriatric Care, Telehealth Platforms, Show more.
6 Trading close to highs
Dist 52W High is 0.0%
7 Weak multi-year price returns
3Y Excs Rtn is -82%
8 Expensive valuation multiples
P/EPrice/Earnings or Price/(Net Income) is 42x
9 Yield minus risk free rate is negative
ERPEquity Risk Premium (ERP) = Total Yield - Risk Free Rate, Reflects the premium above risk free assets offered by the investment. is -2.1%
10 Key risks
HUM key risks include [1] a significant and financially impactful decline in its Medicare Advantage Star Ratings, Show more.

HUM in ETFs

Weight = HUM's share of each fund

SPY0.08%
VOO0.07%
IVV0.08%
VTI0.06%
ITOT0.07%
IWB0.07%
RSP0.20%
VTV0.17%
+29 more covered ETFs

Valuation & Metrics

Price Chart

Why The Stock Moved

Qualitative Assessment

AI Analysis | Feedback

Updated on 11/6/2026

Humana (HUM) stock has gained about 20% since 7/31/2026 because of the following key factors:

1. Upgraded Full-Year Fiscal 2026 Adjusted EPS Guidance and Favorable Q3 Results. Humana raised its full-year fiscal 2026 adjusted earnings per share (EPS) guidance to "at least $9.50" from its previous expectation of "at least $9.00" on November 6, 2026. This positive outlook followed the release of strong third-quarter fiscal 2026 financial results, which reported revenue of $41.16 billion, representing a 26% year-over-year increase and exceeding analyst consensus estimates. Additionally, the company's Insurance segment reported a GAAP benefit ratio of 93.7% for Q3 2026, which was more favorable than management's guidance of "slightly above 94%".

2. Significant Improvement in Medicare Advantage Star Ratings for Fiscal 2027 and Fiscal 2028. Humana announced on October 9, 2026, that 95% of its Medicare Advantage members are now enrolled in plans rated 4.0 stars or higher for fiscal 2027 by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, a substantial increase from 25% in the fiscal 2025 cycle. Furthermore, Humana achieved a member-weighted Star rating of 4.17 for Bonus Year 2028, exceeding its top-quartile goal and anticipated to provide a one-time tailwind in fiscal 2028. These improved ratings are crucial for future Medicare Advantage revenues and profitability.

Show more
Updated on 11/6/2026

Humana (HUM) stock has gained about 20% since 7/31/2026 because of the following key factors:

1. Upgraded Full-Year Fiscal 2026 Adjusted EPS Guidance and Favorable Q3 Results. Humana raised its full-year fiscal 2026 adjusted earnings per share (EPS) guidance to "at least $9.50" from its previous expectation of "at least $9.00" on November 6, 2026. This positive outlook followed the release of strong third-quarter fiscal 2026 financial results, which reported revenue of $41.16 billion, representing a 26% year-over-year increase and exceeding analyst consensus estimates. Additionally, the company's Insurance segment reported a GAAP benefit ratio of 93.7% for Q3 2026, which was more favorable than management's guidance of "slightly above 94%".

2. Significant Improvement in Medicare Advantage Star Ratings for Fiscal 2027 and Fiscal 2028. Humana announced on October 9, 2026, that 95% of its Medicare Advantage members are now enrolled in plans rated 4.0 stars or higher for fiscal 2027 by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, a substantial increase from 25% in the fiscal 2025 cycle. Furthermore, Humana achieved a member-weighted Star rating of 4.17 for Bonus Year 2028, exceeding its top-quartile goal and anticipated to provide a one-time tailwind in fiscal 2028. These improved ratings are crucial for future Medicare Advantage revenues and profitability.

3. Strategic Joint Venture with BlackRock to Enhance Balance Sheet Efficiency. On October 13, 2026, Humana announced a new strategic joint venture with funds and accounts managed by HPS Investment Partners, part of BlackRock, to manage CenterWell Senior Primary Care Clinics. This agreement involved BlackRock acquiring Welsh, Carson, Anderson & Stowe's (WCAS) existing equity ownership, valued at approximately $2.8 billion. The transaction is expected to drive a reduction of approximately 130 basis points in Humana's GAAP debt-to-capitalization ratio in Q4 2026 and eliminates a previously pending 2027 put option funding, signaling improved financial health and strategic asset management.

4. Positive Analyst Sentiment and Price Target Revisions. The improved company performance and strategic initiatives led to increased confidence from financial analysts. Robert W. Baird upgraded Humana's stock to Outperform from Neutral on October 9, 2026, and raised its price target to $596 from $390. Similarly, Barclays upgraded the stock from Equalweight to Overweight around September 25, 2026. Jefferies reiterated a Buy rating and a $420.00 price target on November 6, 2026, citing better-than-expected Q3 Insurance Medical Loss Ratio results.

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Stock Movement Drivers

Fundamental Drivers

The 19.5% change in HUM stock from 7/31/2026 to 11/8/2026 was primarily driven by a 22.7% change in the company's P/E Multiple.
(LTM values as of)731202611082026Change
Stock Price ($)363.09433.7419.5%
Change Contribution By: 
Total Revenues ($ Mil)145,679154,1855.8%
Net Income Margin (%)0.9%0.8%-8.0%
P/E Multiple34.141.822.7%
Shares Outstanding (Mil)1201200.0%
Cumulative Contribution19.5%

LTM = Last Twelve Months as of date shown

Market Drivers

7/31/2026 to 11/8/2026
ReturnCorrelation
HUM19.5% 
Market (SPY)-1.6%24.0%
Sector (XLV)13.7%22.9%

Fundamental Drivers

The 84.3% change in HUM stock from 4/30/2026 to 11/8/2026 was primarily driven by a 66.8% change in the company's P/E Multiple.
(LTM values as of)430202611082026Change
Stock Price ($)235.38433.7484.3%
Change Contribution By: 
Total Revenues ($ Mil)137,200154,18512.4%
Net Income Margin (%)0.8%0.8%-1.9%
P/E Multiple25.141.866.8%
Shares Outstanding (Mil)1201200.2%
Cumulative Contribution84.3%

LTM = Last Twelve Months as of date shown

Market Drivers

4/30/2026 to 11/8/2026
ReturnCorrelation
HUM84.3% 
Market (SPY)2.6%20.3%
Sector (XLV)27.1%18.5%

Fundamental Drivers

The 57.9% change in HUM stock from 10/31/2025 to 11/8/2026 was primarily driven by a 99.0% change in the company's P/E Multiple.
(LTM values as of)1031202511082026Change
Stock Price ($)274.61433.7457.9%
Change Contribution By: 
Total Revenues ($ Mil)123,110154,18525.2%
Net Income Margin (%)1.3%0.8%-36.9%
P/E Multiple21.041.899.0%
Shares Outstanding (Mil)1211200.4%
Cumulative Contribution57.9%

LTM = Last Twelve Months as of date shown

Market Drivers

10/31/2025 to 11/8/2026
ReturnCorrelation
HUM57.9% 
Market (SPY)8.7%16.2%
Sector (XLV)29.8%23.1%

Fundamental Drivers

The -14.1% change in HUM stock from 10/31/2023 to 11/8/2026 was primarily driven by a -76.4% change in the company's Net Income Margin (%).
(LTM values as of)1031202311082026Change
Stock Price ($)504.85433.74-14.1%
Change Contribution By: 
Total Revenues ($ Mil)98,727154,18556.2%
Net Income Margin (%)3.4%0.8%-76.4%
P/E Multiple18.641.8124.5%
Shares Outstanding (Mil)1251203.7%
Cumulative Contribution-14.1%

LTM = Last Twelve Months as of date shown

Market Drivers

10/31/2023 to 11/8/2026
ReturnCorrelation
HUM-14.1% 
Market (SPY)81.9%13.6%
Sector (XLV)55.4%29.9%

Return vs. Risk

Price Returns Compared

 202120222023202420252026Total [1]
Returns
HUM Return14%11%-10%-44%2%71%12%
Peers Return39%11%-7%-18%4%26%55%
S&P 500 Return27%-19%24%23%16%12%105%

Monthly Win Rates [3]
HUM Win Rate42%67%42%25%50%55% 
Peers Win Rate55%55%42%50%58%51% 
S&P 500 Win Rate75%42%67%75%67%45% 

Max Drawdowns [4]
HUM Max Drawdown-18%-22%-21%-50%-28%-42% 
Peers Max Drawdown-17%-18%-23%-31%-41%-25% 
S&P 500 Max Drawdown-5%-25%-10%-8%-19%-9% 


[1] Cumulative total returns since the beginning of 2021
[2] Peers: UNH, ELV, CVS, CI, CNC. See HUM Returns vs. Peers.
[3] Win Rate = % of calendar months in which monthly returns were positive
[4] Max drawdown represents maximum peak-to-trough decline within a year
[5] 2026 data is for the year up to 11/6/2026 (YTD)

How Low Can It Go

EventHUMS&P 500
2025 US Tariff Shock
  % Loss-15.0%-18.8%
  % Gain to Breakeven17.7%23.1%
  Time to Breakeven77 days79 days
2023 SVB Regional Banking Crisis
  % Loss-15.0%-6.7%
  % Gain to Breakeven17.6%7.1%
  Time to Breakeven75 days31 days
2022 Inflation Shock & Fed Tightening
  % Loss-22.0%-24.5%
  % Gain to Breakeven28.2%32.4%
  Time to Breakeven103 days427 days
2020 COVID-19 Crash
  % Loss-43.4%-33.7%
  % Gain to Breakeven76.5%50.9%
  Time to Breakeven38 days140 days
Q4 2018 Fed Policy Error / Growth Scare
  % Loss-18.8%-19.2%
  % Gain to Breakeven23.1%23.8%
  Time to Breakeven316 days105 days
2015-2016 China Devaluation / Global Growth Scare
  % Loss-17.0%-12.2%
  % Gain to Breakeven20.5%13.9%
  Time to Breakeven119 days62 days

Compare to UNH, ELV, CVS, CI, CNC

In The Past

Humana's stock fell -15.0% during the 2025 US Tariff Shock. Such a loss loss requires a 17.7% gain to breakeven.

Preserve Wealth

Limiting losses and compounding gains is essential to preserving wealth.

Asset Allocation

Actively managed asset allocation strategies protect wealth. Learn more.

EventHUMS&P 500
2022 Inflation Shock & Fed Tightening
  % Loss-22.0%-24.5%
  % Gain to Breakeven28.2%32.4%
  Time to Breakeven103 days427 days
2020 COVID-19 Crash
  % Loss-43.4%-33.7%
  % Gain to Breakeven76.5%50.9%
  Time to Breakeven38 days140 days
2008-2009 Global Financial Crisis
  % Loss-75.5%-53.4%
  % Gain to Breakeven307.6%114.4%
  Time to Breakeven782 days1085 days

Compare to UNH, ELV, CVS, CI, CNC

In The Past

Humana's stock fell -15.0% during the 2025 US Tariff Shock. Such a loss loss requires a 17.7% gain to breakeven.

Preserve Wealth

Limiting losses and compounding gains is essential to preserving wealth.

Asset Allocation

Actively managed asset allocation strategies protect wealth. Learn more.

About Humana (HUM)

Humana Inc. is a leading health and well-being company operating across the United States. Its primary business involves offering a wide array of medical and supplemental benefit plans. A significant part of its operations focuses on serving individuals, particularly through Medicare Advantage and supplemental plans, and it contracts with the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to administer programs for those with limited incomes. Additionally, Humana partners with various states to provide Medicaid, dual eligible, and long-term support services.

Beyond government-sponsored programs, Humana extends its services to commercial markets. It offers fully insured medical and specialty health insurance benefits, including dental, vision, and other supplemental health plans, to individuals and employer groups. The company also provides administrative services only (ASO) products and manages health benefits for military personnel through contracts such as TRICARE.

To deliver a more integrated healthcare experience, Humana also operates a Healthcare Services segment. This segment provides essential support services like pharmacy solutions, direct provider services, and home-based care (e.g., home health). These offerings are available to its health plan members and, in some cases, to third parties, aiming to enhance the overall health and well-being of its diverse customer base.

AI Analysis | Feedback

Humana is like UnitedHealth Group, providing a wide array of health insurance plans and healthcare services across the U.S., with a strong focus on Medicare.

Humana is like Aetna (now part of CVS Health), operating as a major independent health insurance provider with a significant national presence.

AI Analysis | Feedback

  • Individual Medical & Supplemental Benefit Plans: Offers medical and supplemental health insurance plans directly to individuals.
  • Medicare & Medicaid Plans: Provides various government-sponsored health plans, including Medicare Advantage, Prescription Drug Plans, Medicaid, and dual-eligible plans.
  • Commercial Group Health Plans: Delivers fully insured medical and specialty health insurance benefits, such as dental and vision, to employer groups.
  • Administrative Services Only (ASO): Provides administrative services for self-funded health plans to individuals and employer groups.
  • Military Healthcare Services: Administers healthcare benefits, notably through contracts like TRICARE, for military members and their families.
  • Pharmacy Solutions: Offers pharmacy benefit management and related services.
  • Provider Services: Provides various services to healthcare providers.
  • Home Solutions: Delivers in-home health services and other support to members.

AI Analysis | Feedback

Humana (symbol: HUM) primarily serves individuals by providing health and well-being benefit plans and services. While the company contracts with government entities and employer groups, these agreements are ultimately to serve a large population of individual members. Based on the company description, its major customer categories are:

  • Medicare Beneficiaries: Individuals eligible for Medicare who enroll in Humana's Medicare Advantage plans, Medicare Prescription Drug Plans (Part D), or those covered under the Limited Income Newly Eligible Transition (LI-NET) prescription drug plan program administered by Humana for the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).
  • Medicaid and Dual Eligible Individuals: Individuals who qualify for state-sponsored Medicaid programs, including those eligible for both Medicare and Medicaid (dual eligibles), for whom Humana provides managed care and long-term support services under contracts with various states.
  • Commercial and Employer Group Members: Individuals who receive health insurance benefits (medical, dental, vision, and other supplemental health benefits) through their employers' group plans with Humana, or who purchase individual commercial plans directly. This category also includes military personnel and their families covered under contracts like the TRICARE T2017 East Region.

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The following are major suppliers to Humana:

  • Microsoft (MSFT)
  • Cognizant (CTSH)
  • IBM (IBM)

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Here is the requested information for Humana's management team:

Jim Rechtin, President and Chief Executive Officer

Jim Rechtin joined Humana in January 2024, initially serving as President and Chief Operating Officer before assuming the role of Chief Executive Officer in July 2024. He brings a strong combination of operational, industry, M&A, and CEO expertise, focusing on improving health outcomes, driving lower costs, enhancing quality, and providing a personalized member and patient experience. Prior to Humana, Rechtin was the President and CEO of Envision Healthcare. Before Envision, he served as President of OptumCare, part of UnitedHealth Group, and was also with DaVita Medical Group, holding roles as Senior Vice President of Corporate Strategy and President of DaVita Medical Group's California market. Envision Healthcare was a private equity-backed company.

Celeste Mellet, Chief Financial Officer

Celeste Mellet was appointed Humana's Chief Financial Officer, effective January 11, 2025. Before joining Humana, Mellet served as Partner and Chief Financial Officer at Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP), a leading infrastructure fund manager that was acquired by BlackRock. Prior to GIP, she was Evercore's Chief Financial Officer, a Senior Managing Director, and an Executive Vice President from 2021 to 2023. Her experience also includes serving as Fannie Mae's Executive Vice President and CFO, where she was responsible for corporate strategy and financial management functions. Mellet is known for her experience in navigating dynamic and highly regulated industries and her track record of driving improved performance within complex organizations.

Michelle O'Hara, Chief Human Resources Officer

Michelle O'Hara joined Humana in January 2025 as Chief Human Resources Officer. In this role, she leads the company's enterprise talent strategy and people programs. O'Hara is a member of the Enterprise Leadership Team and reports to President and CEO Jim Rechtin. Before coming to Humana, she spent 15 years at Science Applications International Corporation (SAIC), where her most recent position was Executive Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer from 2019 to 2025.

David Dintenfass, President, Enterprise Growth

David Dintenfass joined Humana in February 2024 as President, Enterprise Growth. He is responsible for leading the company's growth strategy, with a focus on customer acquisition, retention, and experience. Dintenfass is an experienced general management, marketing, and sales executive, with over 30 years of experience across consumer banking, wealth and asset management, and consumer-packaged goods.

Sanjay Shetty, MD, President, CenterWell

Sanjay Shetty, MD, serves as President of CenterWell. CenterWell is Humana's healthcare services brand, focused on delivering integrated care.

AI Analysis | Feedback

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Here are the key risks to Humana's business:

  1. Reliance on Government Contracts and Regulatory Changes: A significant portion of Humana's revenue is derived from government contracts, particularly Medicare and Medicaid. This makes the company highly vulnerable to changes in government policies, reimbursement rates, and regulatory environments, especially concerning Medicare Advantage (MA) and Prescription Drug Plans (PDPs). For example, a decline in Medicare Advantage Star Ratings for 2025 is projected to negatively impact 2026 quality bonus payments from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), potentially affecting revenues, operating results, and cash flows. Humana is even engaged in a lawsuit challenging its 2025 Star Ratings. Furthermore, regulatory uncertainty regarding MA reimbursement rates remains a significant concern, and the company anticipates losing a substantial number of Medicare Advantage members in 2025 due to strategic cuts of unprofitable plans.
  2. Medical Cost Inflation and Inability to Manage Costs: Humana faces substantial risk from the rising cost of medical services, including increased utilization of facilities, services, prescription drugs, and the introduction of new or costly treatments. Failure to accurately price its products or adequately estimate future benefit payments, or to effectively manage operating expenses, could materially and adversely affect its financial performance and profitability. The company's profits in 2024 were significantly impacted by higher-than-expected spending on members' care in Medicare and Medicaid, and elevated medical costs have put continuous pressure on its medical care ratio.
  3. Intense Competition: Humana operates in a highly competitive healthcare industry. Many competitors, including other large health insurance companies and emerging players, possess larger market shares or greater financial resources in various markets. This intense competition challenges Humana's ability to maintain and expand its market share, particularly within the Medicare program, and can impact its pricing flexibility and growth potential.
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The entry and expansion of major technology companies into direct healthcare service provision and potentially alternative health benefit models. Companies like Amazon, with acquisitions such as One Medical (primary care) and PillPack (pharmacy), are building integrated healthcare ecosystems that could offer simplified, tech-driven health solutions directly to consumers and employers, potentially bypassing or significantly competing with traditional health insurers and service providers like Humana in areas such as pharmacy solutions, provider services, and home solutions.

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Addressable Markets for Humana's Main Products and Services

Humana Inc. operates in various segments of the U.S. health and well-being market. The addressable market sizes for its main products and services are as follows:

Retail Segment

  • Medical and Supplemental Benefit Plans to Individuals (primarily Medicare Advantage): The U.S. Medicare Advantage market had an enrollment of 34.1 million beneficiaries in 2025, representing 54% of all eligible Medicare individuals in the U.S.. Enrollment further increased to 35.4 million beneficiaries in 2026. The global Medicare Advantage market size, which is primarily concentrated in the U.S., was estimated at approximately USD 445.97 billion in 2025 and is projected to expand to USD 1.06 trillion by 2034.
  • Individual Health Insurance (broader market including public and private plans): The U.S. individual health insurance market was valued at USD 1.60 trillion in 2022 and is expected to reach USD 1.68 trillion in 2023. This market is projected to grow to USD 2.54 trillion by 2030.

Group and Specialty Segment

  • Commercial Fully Insured Medical and Specialty Health Insurance Benefits: Enrollment in fully insured large group plans in the U.S. declined to approximately 38 million in 2023, while fully insured small group plans saw enrollment decline to about 10 million in 2023. Overall, employer-sponsored insurance held a 49.33% market share in the U.S. health and medical insurance market in 2025.
  • Medicaid Benefits: U.S. Medicaid managed care organization spending totaled USD 457 billion in 2023. As of March 2025, the national Medicaid managed care market included 66 million enrollees.
  • TRICARE Services: TRICARE serves approximately 9.5 million beneficiaries worldwide. In 2024, this included 2.433 million Medicare-Eligible beneficiaries.

Healthcare Services Segment

  • Pharmacy Solutions (Pharmacy Benefit Management - PBM): The U.S. pharmacy benefit management market was valued at USD 587.4 billion in 2024 and USD 638.0 billion in 2025. It was also valued at USD 432.30 billion in 2023 and is expected to be worth around USD 921.52 billion by 2035. PBMs manage pharmacy benefits for over 266 million Americans.
  • Home Solutions Services (Home Health): The U.S. home healthcare market was estimated at USD 162.35 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 381.40 billion by 2033. Another estimate places the market size at USD 222.61 billion in 2025, predicted to reach around USD 692.30 billion by 2035.

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Here are 3-5 expected drivers of future revenue growth for Humana (HUM) over the next 2-3 years:

  1. Medicare Advantage (MA) Membership Growth and Strategic Market Expansion: Humana anticipates continued growth in its Medicare Advantage membership, driven by strategic expansion into new counties. For example, Humana is expanding its MA plans to 226 new counties for 2025, aiming to cover 89% of U.S. counties across 48 states, Washington D.C., and Puerto Rico. This expansion, along with efforts to improve member retention, is expected to drive revenue growth.
  2. Expansion and Performance of CenterWell Businesses: The CenterWell segment, which includes senior-focused primary care, pharmacy solutions, and home solutions, is a significant expected driver of revenue. CenterWell Senior Primary Care is projected to see substantial patient growth, with an increase of 100,600 patients, or over 25%, in 2025, including approximately 32,000 patients from the acquisition of The Villages Health. CenterWell Pharmacy is also experiencing strong growth due to increased specialty volumes and direct-to-consumer sales.
  3. Growth in Medicaid Business and State-Based Contracts: Humana is expanding its Medicaid footprint and securing new state-based contracts. This includes preparing for the January 1, 2026, launch of new programs like the Michigan Highly Integrated Dual Eligible Special Needs Plan (HIDE SNP) and the statewide Illinois Fully Integrated Dual Eligible Special Needs Plan (FIDE) programs, as well as integrating dual eligibles into the South Carolina Medicaid program. This expansion is a key component of the company's long-term strategy and revenue generation.
  4. Optimizing Existing Business through Pricing Actions and Operational Efficiency: Humana is focused on initiatives to improve member and patient outcomes, enhance operational efficiency, and better manage medical spending, which are expected to lead to more profitable membership growth and margin recovery, indirectly supporting revenue growth. This includes higher per-member Medicare and state-based contract premiums. The company is evaluating MA pricing actions and expects earnings growth in other lines of business through ongoing productivity and trend-mitigation initiatives.

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Share Repurchases

  • Humana's annual share repurchases were $1.573 billion in 2023 and $817 million in 2024.
  • In 2025, Humana repurchased $151 million in shares, with $109 million occurring in the first nine months.
  • As of July 29, 2025, the company had a remaining share repurchase authorization of $2.83 billion.

Share Issuance

  • Humana issued $1.5 billion in senior notes in March 2025, which contributed to an increase in its debt-to-total capitalization.

Outbound Investments

  • Humana, in partnership with private equity firm Welsh, Carson, Anderson & Stowe (WCAS), initiated a second joint venture to invest $1.2 billion in approximately 100 new CenterWell Senior Primary Care clinics between 2023 and 2025.
  • This expansion built upon a previous $800 million joint venture with WCAS to open 67 clinics by early 2023.
  • In 2025, Humana's growth in CenterWell Senior Primary Care included approximately 32,000 patients associated with the acquisition of The Villages Health.

Capital Expenditures

  • Humana's projected capital expenditures for 2025 were approximately $650 million.
  • Expected capital expenditures for 2026 are also approximately $650 million.
  • A primary focus of these expenditures is on funding growth and investment in the Medicare Advantage business, expanding Healthcare Services capabilities, and developing CenterWell Senior Primary Care clinics.

Peer Outperformance in Managed Health Care

HUM has outperformed 57% of its 7 Managed Health Care peers over 5Y. Among the peers that beat it is HQY. Managed Health Care ranks 3rd of 10 industries in Health Care by median 5Y return. That makes it one of the strongest corners of the sector.
Share of Managed Health Care constituents that HUM has outperformed, by holding period. Peers without a full price history over a given window are excluded from that window.
1Y
71%
of 7 industry peers · 74.3% return
3Y
29%
of 7 industry peers · -9.1% return
5Y
57%
of 7 industry peers · 0.4% return
Managed Health Care peers with revenue growth within 4pp of HUM's that beat it on at least 2 of 3 windows, and by at least 20pp over 5Y. Growth is matched by construction, so the gap is largely a re-rating gap. The multiple column is the context for it.
Ticker Name Rev Growth 3Y Avg P/E 1Y3Y5Y 5Y Gap
HUM Humana 14.8% 41.8x 74.3%-9.1%0.4% —
HQY HealthEquity 13.3% 36.5x 10.6%53.0%49.9% +50pp
Price returns, excluding dividends. P/E shown for context only and not used for matching.
Median price return by industry across the Health Care sector, ranked by 5Y. Managed Health Care is HUM's own industry. Use this to see which corners of the sector have carried the returns.
Industry Names 1Y med3Y med5Y med Top 3 by 5Y
Health Care Distributors 6 6.4%56.1%94.3% CAH 506% · MCK 394% · COR 179%
Health Care Services 20 32.4%25.6%7.4% HIMS 208% · RDNT 127% · DGX 98%
Managed Health Care ← 8 55.2%-1.8%-2.7% OSCR 86% · HQY 50% · ELV 7%
Health Care Facilities 26 16.4%22.6%-8.9% THC 277% · NHC 227% · EHC 177%
Health Care Equipment 50 4.0%18.3%-16.3% UFPT 356% · GKOS 318% · TMDX 175%
Pharmaceuticals 60 -8.6%18.7%-39.8% LQDA 933% · XERS 649% · KNSA 543%
Health Care Supplies 11 23.1%19.5%-41.3% LNTH 242% · HAE 69% · MMSI 25%
Life Sciences Tools & Services 108 -6.4%-14.5%-74.1% AXGN 249% · MEDP 191% · NTRA 166%
Biotechnology 365 -23.8%-29.2%-81.7% ELVN 1232% · TRVI 1075% · DNTH 1069%
Health Care Technology 21 -21.7%-47.8%-83.1% VEEV -5% · DOCS -54%
Median of constituents with a full price history over each window. Top names are limited to companies above $2B market cap.

Latest Trefis Analyses

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Financials

HUMUNHELVCVSCICNCMedian
NameHumana UnitedHe.Elevance.CVS Heal.Cigna Centene  
Mkt Price433.74393.99425.6084.24293.9969.82343.99
Mkt Cap52.1353.492.2108.077.334.584.7
Rev LTM154,185449,662201,831420,614285,217203,895244,556
Op Inc LTM-23,924-15,0618,6751,52011,868
FCF LTM3,13922,8266,51415,5678,2663,9437,390
FCF 3Y Avg11417,7653,7177,8496,9622,5155,340
CFO LTM3,73126,1957,59618,7089,4304,7248,513
CFO 3Y Avg71221,2654,88010,8098,2373,2496,558

Growth & Margins

HUMUNHELVCVSCICNCMedian
NameHumana UnitedHe.Elevance.CVS Heal.Cigna Centene  
Rev Chg LTM22.0%3.3%3.6%6.7%6.8%9.7%6.8%
Rev Chg 3Y Avg14.8%7.7%6.3%6.5%14.9%10.8%9.3%
Rev Chg Q26.1%-0.4%1.4%5.4%5.6%1.9%3.6%
QoQ Delta Rev Chg LTM5.8%-0.1%0.4%1.3%1.4%0.5%0.9%
Op Inc Chg LTM--9.2%-41.4%7.8%38.8%23.3%
Op Inc Chg 3Y Avg--8.4%-4.1%7.0%-16.5%-2.2%
Op Mgn LTM-5.3%-3.6%3.0%0.7%3.3%
Op Mgn 3Y Avg-6.5%-3.1%3.2%1.0%3.1%
QoQ Delta Op Mgn LTM-0.5%-0.2%-0.1%-0.1%0.1%
CFO/Rev LTM2.4%5.8%3.8%4.4%3.3%2.3%3.5%
CFO/Rev 3Y Avg0.3%5.0%2.5%2.7%3.1%1.7%2.6%
FCF/Rev LTM2.0%5.1%3.2%3.7%2.9%1.9%3.1%
FCF/Rev 3Y Avg-0.2%4.1%1.9%1.9%2.6%1.3%1.9%

Valuation

HUMUNHELVCVSCICNCMedian
NameHumana UnitedHe.Elevance.CVS Heal.Cigna Centene  
Mkt Cap52.1353.492.2108.077.334.584.7
P/S0.30.80.50.30.30.20.3
P/Op Inc-14.8-7.28.922.711.8
P/EBIT20.815.012.07.17.813.512.7
P/E41.822.217.99.812.923.620.1
P/CFO14.013.512.15.88.27.310.2
Total Yield3.2%6.8%7.2%13.5%9.9%4.2%7.0%
Dividend Yield0.8%2.3%1.6%3.2%2.1%0.0%1.9%
FCF Yield 3Y Avg0.1%5.0%4.6%7.6%8.9%10.9%6.3%
D/E0.20.20.30.70.40.50.4
Net D/E-0.20.1-0.10.60.3-0.20.0

Returns

HUMUNHELVCVSCICNCMedian
NameHumana UnitedHe.Elevance.CVS Heal.Cigna Centene  
1M Rtn0.6%3.9%3.1%-1.5%4.1%6.8%3.5%
3M Rtn12.9%-2.6%8.4%-11.3%4.6%6.2%5.4%
6M Rtn58.5%4.9%13.5%-5.7%3.2%24.8%9.2%
12M Rtn74.3%24.8%36.6%9.9%13.6%85.9%30.7%
3Y Rtn-9.1%-22.2%-1.2%41.3%7.9%-2.3%-1.8%
1M Excs Rtn17.3%11.2%11.2%1.7%9.6%13.2%11.2%
3M Excs Rtn17.5%1.8%12.3%-6.4%11.0%9.7%10.4%
6M Excs Rtn58.8%5.2%13.8%-5.4%3.5%25.1%9.5%
12M Excs Rtn57.3%14.9%27.9%2.0%7.3%81.0%21.4%
3Y Excs Rtn-82.1%-95.1%-73.9%-37.2%-73.5%-73.4%-73.7%

Comparison Analyses

null

Financials

Segment Financials

Revenue by Segment
$ Mil20252024202320222021
Insurance124,563113,764102,85488,84180,930
CenterWell22,47319,93618,40517,30714,058
Eliminations/Corporate-17,372-15,939-14,885-13,278-11,924
Total129,664117,761106,37492,87083,064


Operating Income by Segment
$ Mil20152014201320122011
CenterWell981739549  
Retail9301,0981,2831,1621,587
Group258    
Eliminations/ Corporate238  29-31
Other Businesses2478-193-1984
Eliminations -59-40  
Employer Group 314322253242
Health and Well-Being Services   486353
Total2,4312,1701,9211,9112,235


Price Behavior

Price Behavior
Market Price$433.74 
Market Cap ($ Bil)52.1 
First Trading Date12/31/1981 
Distance from 52W High0.0% 
   50 Days200 Days
DMA Price$403.32$310.85
DMA Trendupup
Distance from DMA7.5%39.5%
 3M1YR
Volatility38.4%46.4%
Downside Capture113.0257.87
Upside Capture220.94112.06
Correlation (S&P 500)27.2%16.9%
HUM Betas & Captures as of 10/31/2026

 1M2M3M6M1Y3Y
Beta1.621.170.880.680.570.39
Up Beta4.90-1.31-1.23-0.420.030.30
Down Beta-0.16-0.110.090.450.310.41
Up Capture330%244%203%197%101%10%
Bmk +ve Days12182862130427
Stock +ve Days11213373139406
Down Capture142%135%119%34%71%76%
Bmk -ve Days10253664121325
Stock -ve Days11223153112346

[1] Upside and downside betas calculated using positive and negative benchmark daily returns respectively
Based On 1-Year Data
Annualized
Return
Annualized
Volatility
Sharpe
Ratio
Correlation
with HUM
HUM66.2%46.4%1.23-
Sector ETF (XLV)28.6%16.9%1.3123.5%
Equity (SPY)9.5%13.6%0.4016.8%
Gold (GLD)1.6%28.7%0.05-0.3%
Commodities (DBC)38.4%21.2%1.421.2%
Real Estate (VNQ)11.3%14.2%0.5113.8%
Bitcoin (BTCUSD)-27.2%43.6%-0.617.6%

Smart multi-asset allocation framework can stack odds in your favor. Learn How
Based On 5-Year Data
Annualized
Return
Annualized
Volatility
Sharpe
Ratio
Correlation
with HUM
HUM-0.3%38.5%0.09-
Sector ETF (XLV)8.3%15.4%0.3535.8%
Equity (SPY)11.3%17.3%0.4818.6%
Gold (GLD)17.5%19.1%0.74-2.5%
Commodities (DBC)8.1%19.6%0.30-2.0%
Real Estate (VNQ)1.3%18.9%-0.0414.9%
Bitcoin (BTCUSD)4.0%51.6%0.2610.2%

Smart multi-asset allocation framework can stack odds in your favor. Learn How
Based On 10-Year Data
Annualized
Return
Annualized
Volatility
Sharpe
Ratio
Correlation
with HUM
HUM10.5%34.9%0.38-
Sector ETF (XLV)12.2%16.8%0.5949.8%
Equity (SPY)15.0%18.0%0.7037.0%
Gold (GLD)11.9%16.5%0.59-1.1%
Commodities (DBC)7.5%18.1%0.339.1%
Real Estate (VNQ)5.9%20.7%0.2430.1%
Bitcoin (BTCUSD)60.0%66.3%1.009.0%

Smart multi-asset allocation framework can stack odds in your favor. Learn How

Short Interest

Short Interest: As Of Date10152026
Short Interest: Shares Quantity3.7 Mil
Short Interest: % Change Since 930202631.4%
Average Daily Volume1.9 Mil
Days-to-Cover Short Interest2.0 days
Basic Shares Quantity120.1 Mil
Short % of Basic Shares3.1%

Earnings Returns History

Updated 11/6/2026
Expand for More
 Forward Returns
Earnings Date1D Returns5D Returns21D Returns
7/29/2026-6.0%-6.8%0.6%
4/29/20265.8%4.3%34.4%
2/11/20262.0%8.6%-5.7%
11/5/2025-5.2%-9.2%-3.2%
7/30/202512.4%9.4%27.8%
4/30/20251.1%-2.9%-11.3%
2/11/20251.0%3.2%-2.2%
10/30/20243.3%1.1%15.1%
...
SUMMARY STATS   
# Positive151312
# Negative91112
Median Positive2.0%4.3%4.4%
Median Negative-5.2%-4.9%-5.2%
Max Positive12.4%9.4%34.4%
Max Negative-10.6%-12.2%-13.0%
Collapse to Preview
 Forward Returns
Earnings Date1D Returns5D Returns21D Returns
7/29/2026-6.0%-6.8%0.6%
4/29/20265.8%4.3%34.4%
2/11/20262.0%8.6%-5.7%
11/5/2025-5.2%-9.2%-3.2%
7/30/202512.4%9.4%27.8%
4/30/20251.1%-2.9%-11.3%
2/11/20251.0%3.2%-2.2%
10/30/20243.3%1.1%15.1%
7/31/2024-10.6%-12.2%-12.9%
4/24/2024-3.7%-7.9%8.7%
1/25/20241.7%5.8%1.3%
11/1/2023-6.6%-4.9%-7.4%
8/2/20235.6%7.7%3.7%
4/26/20230.8%6.3%1.0%
2/1/2023-4.6%-3.7%-2.5%
11/2/20220.9%0.6%-1.1%
7/27/2022-2.8%-2.8%0.7%
4/27/20223.0%0.8%3.3%
2/2/20226.2%8.8%10.0%
11/3/20210.5%-1.5%-7.8%
7/28/2021-5.7%-9.0%-13.0%
4/28/2021-2.3%3.2%-2.2%
2/3/20211.4%-0.5%5.1%
11/3/20206.7%1.7%-4.6%
SUMMARY STATS   
# Positive151312
# Negative91112
Median Positive2.0%4.3%4.4%
Median Negative-5.2%-4.9%-5.2%
Max Positive12.4%9.4%34.4%
Max Negative-10.6%-12.2%-13.0%

SEC Filings

Expand for More
Report DateFiling DateFiling
09/30/202611/06/202610-Q
06/30/202607/29/202610-Q
03/31/202604/29/202610-Q
12/31/202502/19/202610-K
09/30/202511/05/202510-Q
06/30/202507/30/202510-Q
03/31/202504/30/202510-Q
12/31/202402/20/202510-K
09/30/202410/30/202410-Q
06/30/202407/31/202410-Q
03/31/202404/24/202410-Q
12/31/202302/15/202410-K
09/30/202311/01/202310-Q
06/30/202308/02/202310-Q
03/31/202304/26/202310-Q
12/31/202202/16/202310-K
Collapse to Preview
Report DateFiling DateFiling
09/30/202611/06/202610-Q
06/30/202607/29/202610-Q
03/31/202604/29/202610-Q
12/31/202502/19/202610-K
09/30/202511/05/202510-Q
06/30/202507/30/202510-Q
03/31/202504/30/202510-Q
12/31/202402/20/202510-K
09/30/202410/30/202410-Q
06/30/202407/31/202410-Q
03/31/202404/24/202410-Q
12/31/202302/15/202410-K
09/30/202311/01/202310-Q
06/30/202308/02/202310-Q
03/31/202304/26/202310-Q
12/31/202202/16/202310-K
09/30/202211/02/202210-Q
06/30/202207/27/202210-Q
03/31/202204/27/202210-Q
12/31/202102/17/202210-K
09/30/202111/03/202110-Q
06/30/202107/28/202110-Q
03/31/202104/28/202110-Q
12/31/202002/18/202110-K
09/30/202011/03/202010-Q
06/30/202008/05/202010-Q
03/31/202004/29/202010-Q
12/31/201902/20/202010-K

Recent Forward Guidance

Updated 11/7/2026

Latest: Q3 2026 Earnings Reported 11/6/2026

Forward GuidanceGuidance Change
MetricSourceLowMidHigh% Chg% DeltaChangePrior
2026 Amortization associated with identifiable intangibles per shareReported 0.31    
2026 Value creation initiatives per shareReported 1.48    
2026 Impairment charges per shareReported 0.2    
2026 Initial option liability associated with recently announced strategic joint venture per shareReported 2.14    
2026 Put/call valuation adjustments associated with the company's non-consolidating minority interest investments per shareReported -11.42    
2026 Cumulative net tax impact per shareReported 1.7    
2026 Diluted EPS (GAAP)Reported15.0915.09 131.4% RaisedGuidance: 6.52 for 2026
2026 Adjusted Diluted EPS (non-GAAP)Reported9.59.5 5.6% RaisedGuidance: 9 for 2026


Prior: Q2 2026 Earnings Reported 7/29/2026

Forward GuidanceGuidance Change
MetricSourceLowMidHigh% Chg% DeltaChangePrior
2026 Insurance segment benefit ratioReported0.930.93  0.0%AffirmedGuidance: 0.93 for 2026
2026 Medicare Advantage membership growthReported 25.0%  0.0%AffirmedGuidance: 25.0% for 2026
2026 Adjusted EPSReported 9 0.0% AffirmedGuidance: 9 for 2026
2026 GAAP EPSReported 6.52 -22.0% LoweredGuidance: 8.36 for 2026

Q1 2026 Earnings Reported 4/29/2026

Forward GuidanceGuidance Change
MetricSourceLowMidHigh% Chg% DeltaChangePrior
2026 Insurance segment benefit ratioReported0.930.930.93 0.0%Affirmed
2026 Medicare Advantage membership growthReported 25.0%  0.0%AffirmedGuidance: 25.0% for 2026
2026 EPSReported 8.36 -6.0% LoweredGuidance: 8.89 for 2026
2026 Adjusted EPSReported 9 0.0% AffirmedGuidance: 9 for 2026

Q4 2025 Earnings Reported 2/11/2026

Forward GuidanceGuidance Change
MetricSourceLowMidHigh% Chg% DeltaChangePrior
2026 Individual Medicare Advantage membership growthReported 25.0%    
2026 GAAP EPSReported 8.89 -27.5% Lower NewActual: 12.26 for 2025
2026 Adjusted EPSReported 9 -47.1% Lower NewActual: 17 for 2025

Insider Activity

Updated 9/3/2026
Expand for More
#OwnerTitleHoldingActionFiling DatePriceSharesTransacted
Value
Value of
Held Shares
Form
1Shetty, Sanjay KPresident, CenterWellDirectBuy2252026185.21810150,0162,158,935Form
Collapse to Preview
#OwnerTitleHoldingActionFiling DatePriceSharesTransacted
Value
Value of
Held Shares
Form
1Shetty, Sanjay KPresident, CenterWellDirectBuy2252026185.21810150,0162,158,935Form

Investor Activity (13F)

Updated Nov 9, 2026
13F holdings as of Mar 31, 2026 (Q1 2026)

Active managers (13F portfolio over $250M, at least 3 holdings) with a position over $5M that is either over 10% of their portfolio or held in a concentrated book of 50 or fewer total positions. Index/ETF, sovereign, bank, community-bank and charitable/donor-advised filers are excluded.

Active ManagerValue% of PortfolioTotal PositionsQoQFiling
Naya Capital Management UK LTD$288.7 Mil24.4%4ADD +33.9%13F
High Ground Investment Management LLP$88.6 Mil16.4%5Hold13F
Sessa Capital IM, L.P.$646.4 Mil12.3%31ADD +60.8%13F
Redwood Grove Capital, LLC$19.9 Mil6.4%22ADD +8.7%13F
Solel Partners LP$29.4 Mil6.3%19ADD +49.4%13F
Columbus Hill Capital Management, L.P.$15.5 Mil2.6%21TRIM -7.8%13F
Maple Rock Capital Partners Inc.$59.8 Mil1.9%44ADD +99.7%13F
Summit Street Capital Management, LLC$11.6 Mil1.6%31Hold13F
Glenview Capital Management, LLC$58.1 Mil1.6%41New13F
Kopernik Global Investors, LLC$19.7 Mil1.4%27New13F
Avidity Partners Management LP$5.9 Mil1.3%46New13F
Slate Path Capital LP$79.7 Mil1.2%44TRIM -51.8%13F
Active ManagerValue% of PortfolioTotal PositionsQoQFiling
Glenview Capital Management, LLC$58.1 Mil1.6%41New13F
Kopernik Global Investors, LLC$19.7 Mil1.4%27New13F
Avidity Partners Management LP$5.9 Mil1.3%46New13F
Maple Rock Capital Partners Inc.$59.8 Mil1.9%44ADD +99.7%13F
Sessa Capital IM, L.P.$646.4 Mil12.3%31ADD +60.8%13F
Solel Partners LP$29.4 Mil6.3%19ADD +49.4%13F
Naya Capital Management UK LTD$288.7 Mil24.4%4ADD +33.9%13F
Redwood Grove Capital, LLC$19.9 Mil6.4%22ADD +8.7%13F
Active ManagerValue% of PortfolioTotal PositionsQoQAs OfFiling
Owl Creek Asset Management, L.P.$28.4 Mil3.4%30ExitedDec 31, 202513F
Crake Asset Management LLP$8.8 Mil0.3%17ExitedDec 31, 202513F
Slate Path Capital LP$79.7 Mil1.2%44TRIM -51.8%Mar 31, 202613F
Columbus Hill Capital Management, L.P.$15.5 Mil2.6%21TRIM -7.8%Mar 31, 202613F
Active ManagerValue% of PortfolioTotal PositionsQoQFiling
Sessa Capital IM, L.P.$646.4 Mil12.3%31ADD +60.8%13F
Naya Capital Management UK LTD$288.7 Mil24.4%4ADD +33.9%13F
High Ground Investment Management LLP$88.6 Mil16.4%5Hold13F
Slate Path Capital LP$79.7 Mil1.2%44TRIM -51.8%13F
Maple Rock Capital Partners Inc.$59.8 Mil1.9%44ADD +99.7%13F
Glenview Capital Management, LLC$58.1 Mil1.6%41New13F
Solel Partners LP$29.4 Mil6.3%19ADD +49.4%13F
Redwood Grove Capital, LLC$19.9 Mil6.4%22ADD +8.7%13F
Kopernik Global Investors, LLC$19.7 Mil1.4%27New13F
Columbus Hill Capital Management, L.P.$15.5 Mil2.6%21TRIM -7.8%13F
Summit Street Capital Management, LLC$11.6 Mil1.6%31Hold13F
Avidity Partners Management LP$5.9 Mil1.3%46New13F

HUM Trade Sentinel


Stock Conviction

High Conviction

CONVICTION RATIONALE

Conviction is high based on flawless execution of a complex turnaround. The company reversed membership declines to achieve growth and secured a decisive lead in quality ratings, de-risking future revenue. With early 2027 enrollment trends positive, momentum appears sustainable.

STOCK ARCHETYPE
Recurring Membership

Total Medical Members x Per-Member Per-Month (PMPM) Premium

Looking for high-conviction positions with a better risk/reward profile? See what's currently in the Trefis High Quality Portfolio.
INVESTMENT THESIS
Is the operational turnaround durable enough to drive sustained earnings growth?

Evidence suggests yes. Humana is gaining market share while executing a margin recovery, underpinned by a decisive lead in quality ratings that secures future revenue.

Mechanism: This drives membership growth and supports management's plan to double the individual MA pretax margin in 2026 and reach a sustainable 3% margin by 2026.
Supporting Evidence:
  • 95% of Medicare Advantage members will be in 4-star or higher plans for 2027.
  • Management is on track to double the individual MA pretax margin in 2026.
  • Full-year 2026 Adjusted EPS guidance was raised, with a new midpoint of $9.50.
  • Early 2027 enrollment performance is 'ahead of our initial expectations'.
PRIMARY RISK
Over-reliance on Government Contracts

Approximately 93% of 2025 revenue came from government programs, creating significant exposure to policy changes. The government is currently appealing a favorable court ruling on the RADV audit rule, and an adverse decision could have a material financial impact.

Mechanism: An unfavorable ruling from the U.S. Court of Appeals in the pending RADV case.
Supporting Evidence:
  • Government programs accounted for 93% of 2025 premiums and services revenue.
  • The U.S. government is appealing a court decision that vacated the Final RADV Rule.
  • An unfavorable outcome could have a 'material adverse effect' on financial results.
  • The health benefits industry is highly competitive with low barriers to entry.
Key KPI Watchlist
KPI Status Rationale
Individual Medicare Advantage Membership Growth6,456,900 members as of Q3 2026, a 23.3% year-over-year increase - AcceleratingAfter a period of strategic contraction in 2025 where the company exited unprofitable plans, it has returned to strong membership growth in 2026. Management commentary from the latest earnings call indicates early enrollment trends for 2027 are also ahead of expectations.
Individual MA Members in Value-Based Relationships64% (as of 9/30/2026)This measures the penetration of the company's core integrated care delivery strategy, which is designed to improve health outcomes and manage medical costs.
Core Investment Debate

Turnaround Momentum vs. Latent Margin Risk

BULL VIEW

CORE TENSION


PREVAILING SENTIMENT
BULLISH

The latest evidence favors the bulls. Management reports cost trends are better than expected and early 2027 enrollment is ahead of plan, validating the turnaround's strength.

BEAR VIEW

Bears fear the 2026 growth was bought with unsustainable pricing and that medical cost inflation or an adverse regulatory ruling on RADV audits will prevent margins from reaching peer levels.

Next 6 months: Risks and Catalysts
Timeline Event & Metric To Watch
December 24, 2026
Dividend Record Date
Watch: The record date for the quarterly cash dividend of $0.885 per share.
1/25/2027 - 2/8/2027
Peer Earnings Signal Higher Cost Trends
Watch: Peer commentary on Medicare Advantage medical loss ratios, utilization rates, and forward-looking cost trend assumptions.
1/26/2027
Peer ELV Earnings Report
Watch: Peer Elevance Health (ELV) is scheduled to report earnings.
January 29, 2027
Quarterly Dividend Payment
Watch: A cash dividend of $0.885 per share is payable to stockholders.
2/3/2027
Peer CI Earnings Report
Watch: Peer Cigna (CI) is scheduled to report earnings.
2/9/2027
Margin Recovery Fails to Materialize
Watch: Reported benefit ratio and individual Medicare Advantage pre-tax margin versus management's recovery targets.
2/9/2027
Next Earnings Report
Watch: The company is scheduled to report its next quarterly earnings.
No set date
Adverse Ruling in RADV Audit Appeal
Watch: A decision from the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit in the Humana v Kennedy case.
December 10
Virtual Investor Update
Watch: The company will host a virtual investor update to discuss progress towards its long-term commitments.
Key Events in Last 6 Months
Date Event Stock Impact
2026-11-06
Q3 Earnings and Guidance Raise
Details: Humana reported third quarter 2026 results and raised its full-year 2026 guidance for Adjusted Diluted EPS to a new midpoint of $9.50, a 5.6% change.
+5.3%
$411.79 -> $433.74
2026-10-29
Quarterly Dividend Declared
Details: The Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.885 per share, payable on January 29, 2027.
+0.9%
$411.00 -> $414.50
2026-10-13
New CenterWell Joint Venture
Details: Humana announced a new joint venture with BlackRock to manage and operate CenterWell Senior Primary Care clinics, replacing a previous arrangement with WCAS.
-1.4%
$432.58 -> $426.49
2026-10-09
Details:
+12.0%
$386.30 -> $432.58
2026-07-29
Q2 Earnings and Stock Reaction
Details: Humana reported its second quarter 2026 financial results and affirmed its full-year guidance. The stock had a two-day reaction of -6.0% around the earnings call.
-5.7%
$387.89 -> $365.88
2026-05-27
CenterWell Pharmacy Facility Opens
Details: The company completed an $83 million investment in a new CenterWell Pharmacy mail order distribution center in Orlando, Florida, which began full operations.
+2.3%
$300.34 -> $307.32
Risk Management
Position Sizing

4% - 6%

NORMAL POSITION

Sizing is volatility-based: HUM trades at roughly 36% annualized realized (three-month) volatility versus about 14% for the S&P 500 (2.6x the market). A 4% - 6% position keeps a single-name swing of that size within a diversified portfolio's risk budget.

Diversification Alternatives
UNH - UnitedHealth Group
Scaled Incumbent

UnitedHealth Group offers significantly larger scale, with revenue 2.9 times that of Humana, and higher, more stable operating margins at 5.3%. Its Optum health services arm is a mature, highly profitable integrated asset.

Core Thesis: A stable, compounder investment in the managed care space with best-in-class scale and profitability.
ELV - a business partner
Peer Competitor

a business partner provides exposure to the same industry tailwinds. However, its current Medicare Advantage quality ratings are significantly lower, with only about half of members in 4-star or higher plans.

Core Thesis: A relative value play on managed care, betting on a potential future improvement in its competitive standing.
How Is The Market Pricing HUM?

A Medicare Advantage-focused insurer using its CenterWell health services arm as its primary lever to control medical costs and drive long-term profitability.

Humana is fundamentally a play on the growing Medicare Advantage market. Its core strategy is to leverage its large insurance membership to build out its integrated care delivery platform, CenterWell, which includes primary care, pharmacy, and home health. The company's performance is therefore highly dependent on its ability to execute this integrated model and navigate the heavily regulated and ever-changing CMS policy landscape.

What will confirm the thesis

What will damage the thesis

Noise: Real but irrelevant to thesis

Repricing Catalyst

What HUM Makes & Who Pays
TTM figures based on the twelve months through fiscal Q2 2026
Insurance
$139.7B TTM (96% of Total)
What It Is

This segment sells Medicare products (Individual and Group Medicare Advantage, Prescription Drug Plans), state-based contracts (Medicaid), specialty health insurance benefits (dental, vision), and military services (TRICARE) to Medicare/Medicaid beneficiaries, individuals, employers, and the Department of Defense.

Who Pays & How

The U.S. government (CMS) pays fixed monthly premiums for Humana to manage the health of Medicare beneficiaries, often providing more comprehensive benefits than traditional Medicare. State governments pay for Medicaid contracts, and employers/individuals pay for specialty plans.

Premiums are generally fixed for one-year periods. Medicare payments are based on annual, competitively-determined bids and are risk-adjusted based on the health status of members. Military services contracts are based on administrative service fees.
Competition
Competitors include other managed care companies and national insurers such as UnitedHealth Group (UNH), Elevance Health (ELV), and Centene (CNC).
Many competitors have a larger membership base or greater financial resources in some markets.
Humana has an established national presence with over 30 years in the Medicare program, a geographically diverse membership base, and an integrated care delivery model that aims to improve health outcomes and affordability.
CenterWell
$24.7B TTM (17% of Total)
What It Is

This segment provides pharmacy solutions (mail-order, specialty), senior-focused primary care, and home solutions. Services are provided to Humana's own health plan members as well as to third-party health plans and patients.

Who Pays & How

Health plans (including Humana's Insurance segment and third-party payers) and CMS (for Original Medicare patients) pay for services, often under value-based or risk-sharing arrangements, to improve member health, lower utilization, and reduce total cost of care.

Revenue is generated from providing services, including under risk-sharing arrangements where CenterWell is paid to manage the total health care costs for a patient population. It also includes revenue from dispensing pharmaceuticals.
Competition
The segment is a key part of Humana's integrated care delivery model, designed to work with the Insurance segment to lower medical costs. It operates at scale, with 350 primary care clinics and one of the nation's largest home health providers as of year-end 2025.
HUM Evolution: Price Return by Era
· Focus on Government-Sponsored Health Plans
The company has focused its strategy on government programs, particularly Medicare, for over 30 years. This culminated in the 2025 final exit from the Employer Group Commercial Medical Products business to sharpen its focus on Medicare, Medicaid, and related services.
2021-Present · Building the Integrated Care Delivery Model
+6%
Humana has been strategically building its CenterWell segment, which provides pharmacy, primary care, and home solutions.
Market Is In Wait-and-See Mode
Price structure is strongly bullish. The regime, trend, and proximity to highs all point towards intact institutional trend. Relative to SPY: Strong 63D outperformance but 'relative strength' momentum is fading, indicating that money rotation may be maturing. Volume and momentum show mild distribution. The selling pressure is present but not overwhelming. Earnings history is mildly cautionary. The reaction or drift are negative, and the market is beginning to push back on the thesis.
① Structure
+4
Structural pillar score (-4 to +4). Driven by trend regime, SMA cross events, proximity to 52W high, and relative strength vs SPY.
② Volume / Momentum
-1
Volume/Momentum pillar score (-4 to +4). Driven by institutional footprint score, OBV divergence, and momentum character.
③ Catalyst
-1
Catalyst pillar score (-4 to +4). Driven by earnings day reaction, 20D post-earnings drift, and post-earnings volume character.
Combined Score
2 / 12
1 Price Structure & Trend Trending Up · - ▾
2 Momentum Decelerating ▾
3 Relative Strength vs. SPY Strong Outperformance ▾
4 Institutional Footprint & Volume Neutral / Mixed ▾
5 Volatility Normal ▾
6 Key Price Levels Range · Vol Rising ▾
7 Earnings Reaction History Inconsistent ▾
8 How the Verdict Is Derived Three Pillars ▾
Core Cache Last Updated: 11/8/2026