Daily Market Report – January 27, 2026
Financial Market Today (Tue., 01/27/2026; US Market Close)
US stocks held up well overall – the S&P 500 marked a new record high, although the healthcare sector significantly dampened the mood. The losses of health insurers primarily impacted the Dow through UnitedHealth UNH.
US Dollar: The dollar fell sharply; the broad dollar index dropped to its lowest level in nearly four years (TVC:DXY). Political uncertainty and statements from Trump led to a significant decline in the US dollar. The yen traded stronger, supported by ongoing speculation about measures to support the yen ("rate checks"/intervention risk).
UnitedHealth UNH plummeted by −19.6%. The US government/CMS projected only +0.09% higher reimbursements for 2027 – far below what the market had anticipated. This affected the entire sector. However, the key reason for the sharp decline of UnitedHealth was the disappointing revenue/earnings outlook and comments on cost developments (including Medicaid/medical costs). UnitedHealth expects fewer insured individuals and a "contraction" of Optum Health. Following the company's outlook, analysts forecast a revenue decline for 2026. The stock plunge dragged down Humana, CVS & Co. as well.