Healthcare Stocks in Focus as UnitedHealth and J&J Prepare to Report Earnings

Four major healthcare stocks are making waves in October 2026, with UnitedHealth Group (NYSE:UNH) and Johnson & Johnson (NYSE:JNJ) set to report earnings on October 13. UnitedHealth, valued at approximately USD 343.8 billion, is expected to post earnings per share (EPS) of USD 4.12 on revenue of USD 111.31 billion, a 41% increase from the previous year's EPS of USD 2.92. Analysts will closely watch the company's medical care ratio, which impacts insurer margins and is sensitive to utilization trends. Risks include elevated healthcare utilization and regulatory scrutiny.

Johnson & Johnson, the largest of the four with a market value of USD 609.5 billion, is projected to report EPS of USD 2.72 on revenue of USD 25.36 billion, slightly below last year's EPS but higher than last year's revenue. The company's diversified portfolio of pharmaceuticals and medical devices typically results in fewer surprises compared to other sectors. Key risks include patent expirations, pricing policies, and litigation costs.

Medtronic (NYSE:MDT) saw a 1.8% rise to USD 87.97 on October 5, 2026, without any clear catalyst. The company's next quarterly report is yet to be confirmed. Investors focus on procedure volumes, hospital capital budgets, and pricing, all of which can be affected by higher borrowing costs. Risks include slower procedure volumes, currency effects, and product recalls.

Moderna (NASDAQ:MRNA) experienced a 6.95% surge on October 5, 2026, also without a verified catalyst. The company's next quarterly report is scheduled for November 5, with a consensus loss of USD 1.10 per share. Moderna's revenue is seasonal, peaking during the autumn respiratory season. Risks include vaccine policy shifts, uptake rates, and continuing losses.