Core Insights - UnitedHealth has returned to better-than-expected growth after facing high medical costs and withdrawing its 2025 forecast [1][3] - The company is experiencing a transition year, adjusting health insurance prices and cutting unprofitable segments [1][4] Financial Performance - UnitedHealth expects adjusted earnings of at least $16.25 per share for the current year, surpassing analyst forecasts of $16.21 per share [3][5] - In the third quarter, the company's profit fell 61% to approximately $2.35 billion, but adjusted earnings were better than expected at $2.92 per share, with total revenue increasing by 12% to about $113.16 billion [5] - Analysts predict adjusted earnings of $17.59 per share for the next year [6] Customer Base and Market Position - UnitedHealth has lost about 1 million customers from its Medicare Advantage business, which now serves 8.4 million customers, making it the largest provider of such plans in the U.S. [2][4] - The company manages coverage for over 50 million people [4] Stock Performance - UnitedHealth's stock has decreased by 27% year-to-date as of the latest close, although it saw a boost in August following Berkshire Hathaway's investment [6][7]