CVS Health Corp. (CVS) has emerged as the leading performer in the healthcare sector, outpacing peers on strength in pharmacy services, pharmacy benefit manager (PBM) operations, and recent capital allocation moves. Market momentum has driven the stock to a year-to-date gain of 18.4%, surpassing industry benchmarks.
- CVS Health (CVS) has delivered a 18.4% year-to-date gain in 2025, the highest among major healthcare stocks.
- Q3 2025 adjusted EPS rose 12.6% YoY, fueled by pharmacy and PBM segment growth.
- The company announced a $3.2 billion share buyback program in late November 2025.
- Same-store pharmacy sales grew 4.8% YoY, outpacing industry average of 3.1%.
- 23 new primary care clinics launched in Q4 2025, supporting value-based care expansion.
- Trading volume increased by 41% over the last 30 days, reflecting heightened investor interest.
CVS Health Corp. (CVS) has posted the strongest performance among major healthcare stocks in 2025, with a year-to-date rise of 18.4% as of December 11, according to public market data. This outperformance positions CVS ahead of key peers including UnitedHealth Group (UNH), Johnson & Johnson (JNJ), and Express Scripts (ESRX), which have posted gains of 11.2%, 9.7%, and 13.5% respectively over the same period. The surge follows a series of strategic developments, including the company’s recent announcement of a $3.2 billion share buyback program and expanded partnerships with employer groups to enhance prescription drug savings programs. The company's Q3 2025 earnings report revealed a 12.6% year-over-year increase in adjusted earnings per share, driven by stronger-than-expected revenue from its CVS Pharmacy segment and a 7.4% growth in prescription volume at its PBM unit. Additionally, CVS reported a 4.8% year-over-year increase in same-store pharmacy sales, reflecting sustained consumer demand and improved pharmacy access through its retail network. Investor confidence has also been bolstered by the company’s recent expansion into value-based care, with the launch of 23 new primary care clinics in underserved urban markets. These initiatives have contributed to improved patient retention and higher margins in the health services division. As a result, analysts have upgraded CVS stock to 'Buy' from 'Hold' at three major investment firms, citing improved operational execution and a more resilient earnings profile than peers. The stock’s momentum has drawn attention from institutional investors and retail traders alike, with trading volume increasing by 41% over the past 30 days. The broader healthcare sector has responded positively, with the SPDR S&P Healthcare ETF (XLV) rising 2.3% in the same period, signaling broader sector confidence in CVS’s leadership position.