The Wall Street Journal reported over the weekend that the Trump administration plans to release guidance as soon as this month for granting states waivers to convert Medicaid funding to block grants, Cantor Fitzgerald analyst Steven Halper tells investors in a research note. Conventional wisdom suggests that if the federal government were to move away from the current match program to block grants, states would reduce spending and eligibility levels for its Medicaid programs, adds the analyst. Accordingly, block grants are viewed negatively by investors, says Halper. However, on the flip side, he notes, states could adopt managed care for more of its populations. All of the companies the analyst covers in managed care have some exposure to Medicaid. Centene (CNC) is most exposed followed by UnitedHealth Group (UNH) and CVS Health (CVS). However, Halper recommends taking advantage of any pressure in managed care shares given this development. CVS, Cigna (CI) and Centene are his top picks within the group.

Reports Q1 revenue $40.41B, consensus $36.54B. "Centene's first quarter results demonstrate the strength of our diversified platform. We are pleased to raise full year 2024 guidance as we look to maximize the positive momentum being generated by our core businesses. We are executing against our strategic plans for growth and increasing access to affordable, high-quality healthcare for our members and the communities we serve," said Chief Executive Officer of Centene, Sarah M. London.

These names in the biotech sector are seeing a substantial increase in search activity today, as determined by InvestingChannel. They include: Biohaven Pharmaceutical... To see the rest of the story go to thefly.com. See Story Here