10-QPeriod: Q2 FY2007

UNITEDHEALTH GROUP INC Quarterly Report for Q2 Ended Jun 30, 2007

Filed August 6, 2007For Securities:UNH

Summary

UnitedHealth Group (UNH) reported solid financial results for the second quarter and first half of 2007. The company demonstrated strong revenue growth, with consolidated revenues reaching $19.0 billion for the quarter and $38.0 billion for the first half, representing increases of 6% and 7% respectively, year-over-year. This growth was primarily driven by premium increases, expansion in Medicare Part D, and service revenue growth across its segments. Profitability also saw significant improvement, with diluted earnings per common share rising 27% to $0.89 for the quarter and 17% to $1.55 for the first half. Earnings from operations grew by 24% and 16% respectively. The company's financial health is further supported by a substantial increase in cash and investments, reaching $24.5 billion, bolstered by strong operating cash flows and strategic debt management. While the company faces ongoing litigation and regulatory scrutiny related to its historical stock option practices, the core business operations continue to perform well, reflecting growth in key segments like Health Care Services and Specialized Care Services.

Key Highlights

  • 1Consolidated revenues increased by 6% to $19.0 billion for Q2 2007 and 7% to $38.0 billion for the first half of 2007.
  • 2Diluted earnings per common share grew by 27% to $0.89 for Q2 2007 and by 17% to $1.55 for the first half.
  • 3Earnings from operations saw a 24% increase for Q2 2007 and a 16% increase for the first half.
  • 4The company's cash and investments stood at $24.5 billion as of June 30, 2007, an increase from year-end 2006.
  • 5The Health Care Services segment experienced robust revenue growth of 6% for Q2 and 7% for the first half, driven by Medicare programs and acquisitions.
  • 6The company is actively repurchasing shares, with approximately $2.4 billion spent on 44.1 million shares in the first half of 2007.
  • 7Despite ongoing legal matters and regulatory inquiries related to historical stock option practices, the company continues to operate and grow its core businesses.

Frequently Asked Questions

Consolidated revenues for the three months ended June 30, 2007, were $19.0 billion, an increase of 6% compared to $17.9 billion in the same period of 2006. This growth was primarily attributed to rate increases on premium-based and fee-based services, growth in individuals served, and expansion in the Medicare Part D program.

Diluted net earnings per common share increased by 27% to $0.89 for the second quarter of 2007, up from $0.70 in the prior year's second quarter. Earnings from operations increased by 24% to $2.1 billion.

During the first six months of 2007, UnitedHealth Group repurchased 44.1 million shares of its common stock for approximately $2.4 billion. As of June 30, 2007, the company had authorization to repurchase up to an additional 91.8 million shares.

The Medicare Part D program contributed significantly to revenue growth. Premium revenues from AARP insurance offerings were approximately $2.7 billion for the first six months of 2007. The company has extended its relationship with AARP through 2014, expanding its exclusive rights for Medicare Advantage offerings.

Yes, the company is involved in ongoing regulatory inquiries and litigation related to its historic stock option practices. While these matters could have a material adverse effect, the company is also actively managing its core business operations which are showing strong performance.