Core Viewpoint - U.S. health insurers' shares surged following reports of a potential two-year extension of Affordable Care Act (ACA) premium subsidies, which would alleviate concerns over premium increases and enrollment declines [1][3]. Group 1: Company Reactions - Centene's shares increased by approximately 7%, Molina Healthcare's shares rose around 4%, and Elevance Health's shares climbed more than 2% in early trading [1]. - Hospital operators also saw positive movements, with HCA Healthcare shares rising by 3.2%, Universal Health Services up nearly 2%, and Tenet Healthcare jumping 6% [4]. Group 2: Market Sentiment - The anticipated two-year extension is viewed as a "better than feared" scenario for health insurers, providing relief after uncertainty surrounding ACA subsidies [2]. - Investors had been cautious due to the potential expiration of pandemic-era enhanced tax credits, but public support for extending these credits remains strong, with about three-quarters of U.S. adults favoring renewal [6]. Group 3: Industry Implications - The proposed policy framework is expected to ease risks associated with sharp premium increases and potential enrollment declines in 2026, thereby improving healthcare affordability [3]. - Analysts suggest that the proposals, although still in early stages, would be favorable for healthcare services, including hospitals and managed care businesses [4].