UnitedHealth tops quarterly estimates, hikes profit outlook as insurer manages high medical costs - CNBC

UnitedHealth reported first-quarter results that beat expectations and raised its 2026 adjusted earnings outlook to more than $18.25 per share, up from a prior outlook above $17.75. The company said it is better managing high medical costs and streamlining operations, which supported the improved profit forecast. UnitedHealth’s results form part of an earnings week in which consumer-facing firms like Yum Brands also surprised to the upside, suggesting pockets of broader economic resilience that could influence healthcare utilization and insurer revenues.