BUZZ - Molina shares rise as its quarterly results beat expectations

October 22 - ** Health insurance company Molina Healthcare (stock code: MOH.N) shares rose 4% to $223.5

** According to data compiled by London Stock Exchange Group (LSEG), the company reported adjusted earnings per share of $0.89 for the third quarter, higher than analysts’ expectation of $0.79

** Molina Healthcare reiterated its adjusted earnings per share guidance for fiscal year 2026 of at least $5.25, and a premium revenue outlook of about $42 billion

** Third quarter revenue was $11.08 billion, exceeding analysts’ estimate of $10.86 billion

** Investment bank Jefferies said Molina’s third-quarter performance was “more headwind than progress,” citing sustained cost pressures in its Medicaid program and uncertainty over whether margins will recover in 2027

** Since October 1, the stock has remained above its 200-day moving average

** Of 21 brokerages, 4 have a “buy” or higher rating, 16 recommend “hold,” and 1 recommends “sell”; the median price target is $209 — data compiled by London Stock Exchange Group (LSEG)

** Including the day’s gain/loss, the stock is up about 29% so far this year

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