CVS Health Signals Strong 2026 Profit Outlook Amid Turnaround Progress

CVS Health is projecting another year of solid earnings growth, announcing that its expected 2026 profit will surpass both Wall Street forecasts and its own 2025 earnings outlook. The update, shared during the company’s investor day, underscores the steady progress of its ongoing turnaround strategy led by Chief Executive David Joyner.

Joyner emphasized that CVS has delivered on its commitments throughout the year and will now concentrate on improving consumer experiences and rebuilding trust—an area he described as a major challenge in today’s healthcare marketplace. As part of this effort, the company unveiled a new consumer app designed to integrate CVS services and offer new revenue opportunities for partners.

Shares of CVS climbed nearly 5% to $80.17 in morning trading following the announcement, extending a year of strong market performance. The stock has surged more than 70% in 2025 as the company implemented sweeping changes, including cost reductions, exits from underperforming markets, and enhancements to leadership to restore investor confidence.

Chief Financial Officer Brian Newman highlighted the company’s strong finish to 2025, stating that CVS expects “another year of strong earnings growth in 2026.” The company forecast adjusted earnings between $7.00 and $7.20 per share for 2026, slightly above consensus expectations of $7.16 per share.

While CVS anticipates up to $400 billion in revenue next year—short of analysts’ projected $419.26 billion—the company expects growth momentum to be driven by improved margins in its Aetna insurance arm and CVS Caremark pharmacy benefit management business. CVS also reiterated plans to exit the Affordable Care Act insurance market in 2026 due to rising medical costs.

Additionally, CVS raised its 2025 profit guidance to between $6.60 and $6.70 per share, marking its fourth increase this year. Analysts at Leerink Partners noted that CVS’ near-term performance supports a strong long-term recovery story for the healthcare conglomerate.