Humana beats Q2 earnings estimates but keeps 2026 profit outlook steady at $9+ per share

Humana reported second-quarter earnings that exceeded analyst expectations, with adjusted earnings per share of $7.61 versus the expected $7.22, and revenue of $40.87 billion beating estimates. The company maintained its 2026 adjusted profit outlook of at least $9 per share, citing stable medical and pharmacy cost trends and strength in its insurance and healthcare services units. Despite the solid results, shares fell over 4% in premarket trading, as investors were disappointed by the unchanged profit guidance amid rising medical costs in Medicare Advantage plans. Humana expects medical costs to remain stable next year and aims to improve profitability through plan changes and membership growth, targeting a sustainable pretax margin of at least 3% by 2028.