Kiltearn Partners LLP has increased its investment in HCA Healthcare, Inc. by 8.1% during the third quarter of 2023, now holding shares valued at approximately $18.20 million. According to a recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), the firm acquired an additional 3,200 shares, bringing its total to 42,700 shares, which constitutes about 3.6% of Kiltearn’s portfolio, making HCA Healthcare its ninth largest holding.
Several other institutional investors have also adjusted their positions in HCA Healthcare. Notably, Clearstead Trust LLC raised its stake by an impressive 311.8% during the second quarter, now owning 70 shares valued at $27,000. Similarly, Harbor Capital Advisors Inc. increased its holdings by 82.9% in the third quarter, now possessing 75 shares worth $32,000. Twin Peaks Wealth Advisors LLC and Compound Global Advisors LLC also entered new positions in HCA Healthcare, valued at approximately $40,000 and $44,000, respectively.
As of now, institutional investors and hedge funds own 62.73% of HCA Healthcare’s stock, highlighting significant institutional interest in the company.
Insider Transactions and Stock Performance
In related news, insider trading activity has been notable. On February 11, 2024, Senior Vice President Christopher F. Wyatt sold 4,000 shares of HCA Healthcare at an average price of $505.00, totaling $2,020,000. Following this transaction, Wyatt’s holdings dropped by 8.27% to 44,379 shares, valued at approximately $22.41 million. Another insider, Senior Vice President Jennifer Berres, sold 8,020 shares on the same day for an average of $514.58, amounting to $4,126,931.60. This sale represented a 40.07% decrease in her ownership, leaving her with 11,993 shares valued around $6.17 million. In total, insiders sold 15,214 shares worth $7.80 million in the last quarter, with insider ownership now at 1.30% of the company.
HCA Healthcare’s stock has shown robust performance as well. The company reported earnings of $8.01 per share for the fourth quarter, exceeding analysts’ expectations of $7.37 by $0.64. The firm reported revenue of $19.51 billion, slightly below the estimated $19.67 billion, but still showcasing a year-over-year revenue increase of 6.7%.
Future Outlook and Analyst Ratings
Looking ahead, HCA Healthcare has set its fiscal year 2026 earnings guidance between $29.10 and $31.50 per share. Analysts predict the company will post earnings of $24.98 per share for the current year.
In terms of market sentiment, HCA Healthcare has received favorable ratings from financial analysts. UBS Group recently raised its target price from $598.00 to $635.00, maintaining a “buy” rating. Other firms, including JPMorgan Chase & Co. and Royal Bank of Canada, have also adjusted their price targets upward, reflecting a consensus rating of “Moderate Buy” with an average price target of $534.50.
HCA Healthcare, headquartered in Nashville, Tennessee, is a for-profit operator of healthcare facilities and a significant player in the healthcare sector since its establishment in 1968. The company operates a wide array of healthcare services, including acute care hospitals and outpatient clinics, contributing to its extensive footprint in the healthcare industry.
