Healthcare Costs to Rise 8.2% in 2027, Boosting MRSH, UNH, CNC

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โดย Zacks Investment Research·

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Summary · why it matters

U.S. employers face another sharp increase in healthcare costs in 2027, with average health benefit costs per employee projected to climb 8.2% even after mitigation, according to a Marsh & McLennan survey of over 1,800 employers. Without cost-control measures, costs could rise about 11%, the steepest since 2003, driven by expensive treatments, GLP-1 weight-loss drugs, and AI-assisted billing. Aon echoes the warning, expecting a 9.5% rise before mitigation. This spending surge creates opportunities for benefits consultants like Marsh and insurers like UnitedHealth and Centene, which are positioned to help employers manage costs. Marsh and UnitedHealth carry a Zacks Rank #2, while Centene holds a #1 Strong Buy, with all three expected to see earnings growth in 2026 and 2027.

Marsh & McLennan Companies, Inc. ▲

Centene Corp ▲

UnitedHealth Group Incorporated ▲

Impact on stocks 4

Financials▲ · 1 stocks

Marsh & McLennan Companies, Inc.

▲ PositiveDemandrelevance

Marsh & McLennan's survey highlights rising costs, boosting demand for its benefits consulting services.

Health Care▲ · 1 stocks

▲ PositiveDemandrelevance

Rising healthcare costs increase demand for Centene's insurance products as employers seek cost management.

Aging Population▲ · 1 stocks

UnitedHealth Group Incorporated

▲ PositiveDemandrelevance

UnitedHealth is positioned to benefit from higher healthcare spending as employers seek cost management.

Climate Adaptation & Water▲ · 1 stocks

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