CAH

Cardinal Health (CAH) gained 2.41% in recent trading, outperforming the S&P 500. The prescription drug distributor is expected to report earnings of $2.92 per share on November 5, 2026, representing 14.51% year-over-year growth, with revenue projected at $66.96 billion. The stock holds a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) rating, though it trades at a premium valuation with a Forward P/E of 19.75 compared to its industry average of 17.67.

With September CPI rising 3.7% year-over-year and inflation concerns potentially triggering additional Fed rate hikes, the article recommends three low-beta defensive healthcare stocks: Cardinal Health (CAH), UnitedHealth Group (UNH), and Corcept Therapeutics (CORT). These stocks offer lower market volatility and strong earnings growth prospects in an uncertain economic environment.

Cardinal Health (CAH) has been identified as a #2 (Buy) on the Zacks Rank with an A VGM Score. The healthcare services provider is forecasted to achieve 11.5% year-over-year earnings growth for the current fiscal year, with three analysts revising earnings estimates higher in the last 60 days. The company boasts a strong Growth Style Score of A and an average earnings surprise of +14.7%.