Sector Update: Financial Stocks Lean Lower Pre-Bell Thursday

October 9 - Delta Air Lines (DAL.N) shares fell nearly 5% in pre-market trading to $78.12. Due to a surge in jet fuel prices, Delta Air Lines (DAL) on Friday lowered its full-year adjusted profit forecast. The U.S. airline now expects adjusted earnings per share in 2026 to be between $5.10 and $5.60, down from the previous guidance of $6.5 to $7.5 per share. The current midpoint of $5.35 per share is lower than analysts’ expectations of $5.46 per share. DAL expects its annual fuel costs to rise by about $6.0 billion, compared to an earlier projection of a $4.0 billion increase. Analysts tracking DAL have given it an average “Buy” rating, according to data compiled by LSEG. So far this year, Delta Air Lines stock has risen 18.4%, the highest increase among major U.S. competitors. (For the convenience of non-English speakers, Reuters automatically translates its reports into several other languages. Since automated translations may contain errors or lack the necessary context, Reuters does not guarantee the accuracy of automated translation texts, which are provided solely for readers’ convenience. Reuters assumes no responsibility for any damage or loss resulting from the use of automated translation services.)

On October 9, TD Cowen lowered its price target for UnitedHealth Group (UNH.N) from $430 to $402 ahead of the company's third-quarter earnings report on October 13. The brokerage stated that the widely expected third-quarter medical cost ratio of 89.9% and earnings per share of $4.12 are "well within reach." The report pointed out that recently announced Medicare star ratings have fallen as anticipated, which is expected to create a $1.5 billion revenue headwind in 2028. The new price target represents a 6.9% upside from the stock's previous closing price. "We also expect management to comment on preliminary expectations for 2027 Medicare Advantage (MA) enrollment growth and may emphasize a focus on margins over enrollment growth," the brokerage added. Earnings forecasts remain unchanged, but a lowered valuation multiple led to the reduction in price target. Among 29 brokerages, 23 rate the stock a "buy" or higher, while 6 rate it "hold"; the median price target is $483.82, according to LSEG data. As of the previous close, the stock is up 12.3% year-to-date.