Core Viewpoint - Verizon Communications is facing a temporary setback due to a service outage affecting over 1 million customers, but its long-term growth prospects and attractive dividend remain intact, making it a potential investment opportunity [1][9]. What Hasn't Changed with Verizon - Verizon's long-term growth prospects are unchanged, with improving free cash flow and anticipated growth from the introduction of 6G wireless networks by the end of the decade [4]. - The acquisition of Frontier Communications is expected to close on January 20, 2026, expanding Verizon's fiber access to nearly 30 million homes and businesses [5]. - CEO Dan Schulman plans to aggressively transform the company's culture, cost structure, and financial profile, while the forward dividend yield exceeds 7%, with a 19th consecutive annual increase in dividends reported in Q4 2025 [6]. What Has Changed (a Little) - The costs from the recent outage may exceed $20 million in credits to affected customers, and some customers may consider switching carriers, but historical data suggests that the impact on Verizon will be temporary [7]. - A past incident with AT&T, where a service outage led to a 40% increase in share price afterward, indicates that Verizon may experience a similar recovery [8].

Core Viewpoint - UnitedHealth Group is experiencing a challenging period, with its stock down approximately 34% year-to-date, but it remains a prominent player in the health insurance sector [1][2]. Group 1: Current Business Situation - UnitedHealth is undergoing a transition, with a current price-to-earnings ratio of 17, making it relatively cheap after its recent decline [2]. - The company suspended its profit forecast in May 2025 due to rising costs from increased doctor visits and surgeries, leading to higher-than-expected insurance claims [5]. - The upcoming financial report on January 27 is crucial for clarifying the company's profitability and long-term growth prospects [6][4]. Group 2: Key Financial Metrics to Watch - Investors should focus on the 2026 financial guidance, particularly projections for earnings per share (EPS), medical care ratio (MCR), and operating margin [7]. - The adjusted EPS for 2025 is projected to be at least $16.25, and any 2026 projection slightly above this figure should be approached with caution [8]. - The MCR ideally should be in the mid-80% range, while a good operating margin benchmark is around 4%, although achieving this may require price increases that could attract scrutiny [10]. Group 3: Investment Considerations - It is advised not to purchase UnitedHealth shares before the January 27 report, but if the results are favorable, the current valuation may present a significant opportunity for long-term investors [11].

Core Viewpoint - Wolters Kluwer is accelerating its existing €1 billion share buyback program, now expected to be completed by November 3, 2025, reflecting management's confidence in the company's long-term growth prospects and commitment to enhancing sustainable value for stakeholders [2][3]. Group 1: Share Buyback Program - The Executive Board has decided to accelerate the execution of the €1 billion share buyback program due to recent developments in the company's share price [2]. - As of September 17, 2025, €731 million of the buyback program has been executed, with €269 million remaining to be repurchased in the seven weeks from September 18 to November 3, 2025 [3]. - The share buyback will be conducted by a third party within legal limits, and repurchased shares will be held as treasury shares for future obligations [3]. Group 2: Financial Performance - Year-to-date performance across all five divisions is in line with the full-year 2025 outlook, with a slight improvement in organic growth observed in July and August, particularly in the Health, Tax & Accounting, and Corporate Performance & ESG divisions [4]. Group 3: Company Overview - Wolters Kluwer reported annual revenues of €5.9 billion in 2024 and operates in over 40 countries, employing approximately 21,900 people [5]. - The company provides professional information solutions and services across various sectors, including healthcare, tax and accounting, and corporate compliance [5].