Stock market today: Dow retreats as UnitedHealth sinks, S&P 500 and Nasdaq aim for winning week

Published On Feb 21, 2025, 10:59 AM

The U.S. stock market saw declines today, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average dropping 0.9%, largely influenced by a significant 8% fall in UnitedHealth shares due to a Department of Justice inquiry into its Medicare billing practices. Meanwhile, the S&P 500 and Nasdaq continue to aim for weekly gains despite today's losses. Celsius Holdings' stock soared over 30% after announcing a $1.8 billion acquisition of Alani Nutrition, enhancing its product portfolio.

Stock Forecasts

UNH

Negative

UnitedHealth is facing regulatory scrutiny, which may lead to further declines as investors react to the increased uncertainty surrounding its business practices.

CELH

Positive

Celsius Holdings' acquisition of Alani Nutrition is seen positively by the market, suggesting continued growth potential for the company and its stronger competitive position in the energy drink industry.

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Shares of the company fell nearly 10% in premarket trading. Shares of other health insurers also fell before the bell. The new civil fraud investigation is examining UnitedHealth's practices for recording diagnoses that trigger extra payments to its Medicare Advantage plans, including at physician groups the insurance giant owns, the report added.

Poor earnings results and a slump in the major gauges leave the weekend uncertain as futures hug the flatline.

WMT
CELH
DBX

Thursday's retreat from recent highs sharply narrowed the S&P 500's weekly gain.

PLTR
CELH