| Valuation method | Value, £ | Upside, % |
|---|---|---|
| Artificial intelligence (AI) | 228.10 | -53 |
| Intrinsic value (DCF) | 144.57 | -70 |
| Graham-Dodd Method | 18.20 | -96 |
| Graham Formula | 277.40 | -43 |
HCA Healthcare, Inc. (LSE: 0J1R.L) is a leading provider of healthcare services in the United States, operating a vast network of hospitals and outpatient facilities. Founded in 1968 and headquartered in Nashville, Tennessee, HCA Healthcare manages 182 hospitals, including general and acute care, psychiatric, and rehabilitation hospitals, along with 125 freestanding surgery centers and 21 endoscopy centers across 20 states and England. The company offers a comprehensive range of medical services, from inpatient and intensive care to outpatient surgery, diagnostics, and emergency services. HCA Healthcare's diversified portfolio ensures resilience in the dynamic healthcare sector, catering to growing demand for medical services amid an aging population and increasing healthcare expenditures. With a market capitalization exceeding $90 billion, HCA Healthcare is a dominant player in the Medical Equipment & Services industry, leveraging scale, operational efficiency, and strategic acquisitions to maintain its competitive edge.
HCA Healthcare presents a compelling investment case due to its strong market position, diversified service offerings, and robust financial performance. With $70.6 billion in revenue and $5.76 billion in net income, the company demonstrates solid profitability, supported by an EPS of $22 and strong operating cash flow of $10.5 billion. However, investors should note the company's high leverage, with total debt at $45.2 billion, and a beta of 1.468, indicating higher volatility relative to the market. The dividend yield, at $2.7 per share, adds income appeal, but capital expenditures of $4.9 billion highlight ongoing reinvestment needs. The healthcare sector's defensive nature and HCA's scale provide stability, but regulatory risks and reimbursement pressures remain key considerations.
HCA Healthcare's competitive advantage stems from its extensive network of hospitals and outpatient facilities, which provide economies of scale and bargaining power with payers and suppliers. The company's operational efficiency, driven by centralized management and technology integration, enhances profitability. HCA also benefits from strategic locations in high-growth markets, ensuring steady patient volumes. However, competition is intense, with rivals like Tenet Healthcare and Universal Health Services vying for market share. HCA's scale allows it to invest in advanced medical technologies and attract top-tier physicians, but smaller, specialized providers may offer more personalized care. The company's debt load, while manageable, could limit flexibility in a rising interest rate environment. Overall, HCA's national footprint and integrated service model position it well for long-term growth, but it must navigate regulatory changes and cost pressures to maintain its leadership.