
Core Viewpoint - Astrana Health, Inc. (ASTH) has been upgraded to a Zacks Rank 1 (Strong Buy), indicating a positive outlook on its earnings estimates, which is a significant factor influencing stock prices [1][3]. Earnings Estimates and Stock Performance - The Zacks rating system is based on changes in earnings estimates, which are closely correlated with near-term stock price movements [4][6]. - Astrana Health, Inc. is expected to earn $1.59 per share for the fiscal year ending December 2025, with no year-over-year change, but the Zacks Consensus Estimate has increased by 19.5% over the past three months [8]. Institutional Investor Influence - Institutional investors utilize earnings estimates to determine the fair value of stocks, and changes in these estimates can lead to significant buying or selling actions, impacting stock prices [4][5]. Zacks Rank System - The Zacks Rank system classifies stocks into five groups based on earnings estimates, with Zacks Rank 1 stocks historically generating an average annual return of +25% since 1988 [7]. - The upgrade of Astrana Health, Inc. to Zacks Rank 1 places it in the top 5% of Zacks-covered stocks, suggesting potential for higher stock movement in the near term [10].