$UnitedHealth(UNH)$ reports earnings on Tuesday. Yes, the stock has jumped 40% from its August low, but I still think it’s a great buy and a stable Buffett pick. Why? • Optum is a Rock: Their health services division (Optum) is a major growth engine that helps them manage costs. This is key to long-term stability. • Medical Inflation Test: The biggest question is how they handle rising costs. If they show good cost-control efficiency and a steady loss ratio, the stock will climb higher. • Goldman Sachs Backing: The recent 'Buy' rating and $406 price target from Goldman Sachs confirms the institutional view that this stock is going up. UNH is a defensive winner in a necessary industry. Long term, they will deliver.
The NASDAQ is on fire, fueled by a 7-month winning streak. The recent 3% CPI and core CPI readings (both below expectations) have traders betting the Fed will cut rates twice more this year - great news for growth stocks. But the Trump Asia Tour introduces a major wildcard. The markets are asking: 1. Reconciliation or Escalation? Will the tour bring diplomatic calm or new trade friction? 2. Can NASDAQ Extend the Streak? Does the favorable CPI data give us enough lift for an eighth month of gains? 3. China Impact: If US and Chinese leaders don't meet, will the market react with disappointment? My take: Domestic data is bullish, but political risk is the wild card. Keep watching the headlines, they'll decide if the NASDAQ's stellar run continues. What's your prediction for the next month? Ra