India, July 16 -- UnitedHealth Group reported a second-quarter net profit of $5.48 billion, helped by lower medical costs and stronger performance in its Optum health services business. The company also raised its 2026 profit forecast, saying it expects better financial performance for the rest of the year because it has been controlling medical expenses.

Investors welcomed the results. UnitedHealth shares rose nearly 5% in premarket trading after the earnings announcement, according to Reuters. On an adjusted basis, UnitedHealth earned $6.38 per share in the second quarter. This was much higher than analysts' average estimate of $4.90 per share, according to LSEG data.

UnitedHealth now expects to earn between $19.50 and $20 per share i...