NYSE:CNC
Centene (CNC)
Financials 
Technical Analysis 
Jul 22, 2026, 12:00 amThis summary was created by AI, based on 1 opinions in the last 12 months.
Centene Corporation (CNC-N) is currently facing significant challenges that impact its overall performance and market standing. Experts highlight a range of concerning factors including rising Medical Loss Ratios (MLRs) which indicates the percentage of premiums spent on healthcare services, signaling financial pressure. Additionally, there is a downward revision of guidance, suggesting that the company's future earnings growth expectations have been tempered. The potential implications of policies from the Trump administration further complicate the landscape for Centene, adding an element of uncertainty. Given the current economic cycle, analysts recommend caution, advising investors to hold off on new investments and to consider revisiting the stock in 2026 when conditions may be more favorable for a rebound.
Tanked over 40% today because yesterday they withdrew their full-year forecast due to low sales on ACA (Obamacare) plans. Market growth in 22 states is lower than expected; expects a $1.8 billion reduction in expected risk-adjustment revenue transfers from Washington. Also expects a $2.75 hit to EPS this year. No wonder shares were hammered. Them and these are peers are paying out a lot more than they had expected. A major problem are fraudulent claims in ACA.
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Premium contentOur PAST TOP PICK with CNC has triggered its stop at $72. To remain disciplined, we recommend covering the position at this time. This will result in a net investment loss of 5%, when combined with our previous recommendation.
Premium contentWe reiterate CNC, a provider of healthcare to under-insured families and military personnel in the US as a TOP PICK. It continues to build cash reserves, while retiring debt and buying back shares. It trades at 16x earnings, under 2x book and supports a 10% ROE. We recommend trailing up the stop (from $63) to $72, looking to achieve $90 — upside potential of 16%. Yield 0%
(Analysts’ price target is $89.64)Premium contentCNC provides healthcare to under-insured families and military personnel in the US. Healthcare is a sector expected to grow for years to come as the population ages. It trades at 1.6x book and 17x earnings. Cash reserves are growing as stock is aggressively bought back and debt is retired. We recommend placing a stop-loss at $63, looking to achieve $88 -- upside potential of 20%. Yield 0%
(Analysts’ price target is $88.33)
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Centene (CNC) Frequently Asked Questions
What is Centene stock symbol?
Centene is a American stock, trading under the symbol CNC (previously CNC-N on Stockchase) on the New York Stock Exchange (CNC). It is usually referred to as NYSE:CNC or CNC
Is Centene a buy or a sell?
In the last year, 2 stock analysts issued a Buy, Sell, or Hold rating on CNC (previously CNC-N on Stockchase). 0 analysts recommended to BUY and 1 analyst recommended to SELL the stock. The latest stock analyst rating is HOLD. Read the latest stock experts' ratings for Centene.
Is Centene a good investment or a top pick?
Centene was recommended as a Top Pick by Mike Vinokur, CFA, CMT, and CFP on 2025-08-28. Read the latest stock experts ratings for Centene.
Why is Centene stock dropping?
Earnings reports or recent company news can cause the stock price to drop. Read stock experts' recommendations for Centene.
Is Centene worth watching?
Centene is followed by 17 investors on Stockchase and is a trending stock that is worth watching.
What is Centene stock price?
On 2026-07-23, Centene (CNC) stock closed at a price of $64.11.
He's down on this name for the reasons that are hitting the space as a whole such as MLRs creeping up, guidance being pulled back, and Trump administration policies. We're in a portion of the cycle where earnings aren't going to come back quickly. Hold off for now with new $$; revisit in 2026.