Oscar(US:OSCR) Benzinga·2026-01-09 02:42Core Viewpoint - Oscar Health Inc. has experienced a significant increase in stock price following the U.S. House of Representatives' passage of a bill extending healthcare subsidies under the Affordable Care Act, which is expected to positively impact the company's business model and outlook [2][3]. Group 1: Stock Performance - Oscar Health's stock rose 6.69% in after-hours trading, reaching $18.04 per share, and was up 2.55% during the regular session, closing at $16.90 per share [1]. - Year-to-date, Oscar's shares have increased by 16.71%, benefiting from an upgrade by Barclays, which changed its rating from "Underweight" to "Equal-Weight" and raised the price target from $13 to $18 per share [4]. Group 2: Legislative Impact - The extension of healthcare subsidies under the Affordable Care Act is anticipated to reduce rising health insurance premiums for millions of Americans, which is crucial for Oscar Health as its business heavily relies on the individual ACA exchange market [2][3]. - Without the subsidy extension, Oscar's members would have faced significantly higher premiums, potentially leading to a loss of healthy subscribers and jeopardizing the company's business model [3]. Group 3: Competitive Position - Oscar Health's business model is more vulnerable compared to larger, diversified competitors like UnitedHealth Group, making the ACA subsidy extension particularly vital for its operational stability [3].