“Our tax rate for the year is now estimated at about 18.5%.”

In context

“ven percent over 2024. We now expect a full year medical care ratio of 89.25% plus or minus twenty-five basis points. This compares to the initial 86.5% midpoint we offered at the end of last year. With the increase driven by the factors discussed. Within this seasonal pacing compared to historical measures is impacted somewhat by the Part D coverage gap modifications due to the inflation reduction act. With first half results, at the midpoint, that places the second half at just under 91.5%. With the fourth quarter expected to be the highest, and at this distance, a relatively proportionate distribution on either side. The full year outlook contemplates a total of $1.6 billion of potential settlement items, an incremental $1 billion over the $600 million recognized in the second quarter. Our tax rate for the year is now estimated at about 18.5%. Affected by our revised earnings outlook as expected benefits remain steady while earnings declined. The lower tax expense in the second quarter reflects the year-to-date recognition of the updated full year effective tax rate. We expect the second half rate to be just over twenty percent. Full year 2025 cash flows from operations are expected to be about $16 billion or one point one times net income. In June, we increased our dividend by five percent and we will strike a balance as to how we use capital over the near term. Being thoughtful about maintaining a strong balance sheet credit rating, and mindful of long-standing commitments. Including the pending Amedisys transaction. Our updated share count of nine hundred and twelve to nine fourteen million dollars compares to the original o”