Centene Corporation (CNC)
NYSEHealth CareHealthcare PlansSnapshot 2026-07-08
$67.06+1.42%
Close 2026-07-08 · 1-day change
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Track CNC free→Centene aims to grow revenue to about $190 billion in 2026. Adjusted EPS is guided above $3.40 for 2026. The company reduced debt by $1 billion in Q1 2026. Profit margins remain stable near 27%.
Membership losses and staff buyouts may hurt revenue growth. Guidance was recently cut despite an EPS beat. Debt reduction efforts could be challenged by buyouts.
The price is about 9% above our fair value near $60. Analysts expect about 2.4% revenue decline next year, while we see modest growth. The market is stretched but justified over 3-5 years.
Breaks if: Adjusted EPS falls below $3.40 in FY26
Centene aims to increase its 2026 adjusted diluted EPS guidance to greater than $3.40.
Stated in 2 of last 2 quarters. Adjusted diluted EPS reached $3.37 in 2026-Q1, close to the guidance of greater than $3.40 for the full year. The trajectory shows progress towards the target.
Breaks if: Debt reduction less than $1 billion in Q1 2026
Centene aims to reduce its debt by $1 billion in the first quarter of 2026.
Newly stated in 2026-Q1. Debt was reduced by $1.0 billion in Q1 2026, meeting the stated priority. The trajectory is delivering on the commitment.
Breaks if: Operating margin falls below 27% in FY26
Breaks if: Revenue falls below $186.5 billion in FY26
Centene plans to increase its 2026 revenue guidance by $1 billion.
Newly stated in 2026-Q1. Revenue increased from $497.25B in 2025-Q4 to $499.44B in 2026-Q1, indicating progress towards the $1B increase in guidance. The trajectory is positive.
Standing thesis, reviewed periodically — not a price target or advice.
Not investment advice. Scores describe historical and current data; they are not forecasts of future returns. Consult a licensed advisor before making investment decisions.
“Our strong first quarter results position us to increase our full year 2026 adjusted diluted EPS guidance to greater than $3.40.”
“Full year adjusted diluted EPS guidance of greater than $3.00.”
“$1.0 billion of debt reduction during the first quarter 2026.”
“The Company is increasing its 2026 premium and service revenues guidance range by $1.0 billion.”