Stocks That Made the News
UnitedHealth Group (UNH) dropped more than 9% over the week after reports surfaced that the Justice Department is investigating the health insurer for its Medicare billing practices.
- The DoJ has yet to confirm the investigation, but this uncertainty caused significant stock price pressure.
- UnitedHealth strongly denied the claims, but the stock dropped to $445 per share by Friday from $490 at the start of the week.
Walmart (WMT) fell by more than 8%, despite reporting strong FQ4 results and announcing a dividend hike.
- The stock slid from $155 at the beginning of the week to $142 by Friday, following a disappointing 2025 fiscal year forecast.
- Walmart’s forecast for the upcoming fiscal year showed a growth of just 2-3% in sales, which was below market expectations of 5%.
Palantir Technologies (PLTR) tumbled nearly 18%, dropping from $19.50 to $16 per share, following reports that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth directed an 8% annual reduction in the Pentagon’s budget over the next five years.
- Given Palantir’s substantial revenue from government contracts, particularly from defense-related projects, investors feared the budget cuts could significantly affect future earnings.
Super Micro Computer (SMCI) was one of the S&P 500’s best performers, rising nearly 7% over the week despite a drop on Friday.
- The stock surged from $240 to $255 after analysts increased their price targets.
- Additionally, the company was able to meet reporting deadlines, easing concerns about potential Nasdaq delisting. The stock maintained its position in the S&P 500 as a result.
Another standout was Analog Devices (ADI), which rose by over 9% during the week.
- The stock climbed from $220 to $240 following a strong earnings beat for Q4 and an optimistic outlook for the upcoming year.
- Several analysts raised their price targets, including Goldman Sachs, which increased its target to $265 from $245.