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Universal Health Services

UHS
NYSE
$145.19
59
Average

Universal Health Services Quality Analysis

Universal Health Services (UHS) is an average quality business scoring 59/100. While the company generates positive returns, it lacks the exceptional attributes that characterize durable competitive advantages. Investors should demand a meaningful discount to fair value before investing.

published on March 14, 2026 (87 days ago)

Does Universal Health Services have a strong competitive moat?

38
Weak

Universal Health Services shows limited evidence of a durable competitive moat. Margins and returns on capital are below levels that would indicate meaningful competitive advantages. The business may struggle to maintain its current profitability as competitive dynamics evolve.

Does Universal Health Services have pricing power in its industry?

75
Good

Universal Health Services demonstrates moderate pricing power. The company maintains healthy margins and has been able to grow revenue without significant margin compression. Encouragingly, margins have been expanding. This suggests reasonable, though not exceptional, ability to pass costs through to customers.

How predictable is Universal Health Services's business?

87
Good

Universal Health Services is a highly predictable business with remarkably consistent financial performance. Revenue growth has been steady with low volatility, and the company has delivered positive free cash flow in 6 of the last 6 years. This consistency makes future earnings relatively easy to forecast with confidence.

Is Universal Health Services financially strong?

52
Average

Universal Health Services has a moderate financial position. Leverage is elevated but not critical. The balance sheet could face stress in an economic downturn. Management should prioritize debt reduction to strengthen the company's resilience.

How effective is Universal Health Services's capital allocation strategy?

62
Average

Universal Health Services shows solid capital allocation. Returns on capital exceed the cost of capital, and management balances reinvestment with shareholder returns reasonably well. There is room for improvement, but overall capital deployment creates value.

Does Universal Health Services have high-quality management?

56
Average

Universal Health Services's management shows mixed results. Operational efficiency could be improved, and capital deployment decisions have been inconsistent. The team needs to demonstrate clearer focus on shareholder value creation.

Average

Is Universal Health Services a quality company?

Universal Health Services is an average quality company with a quality score of 59/100

59
Average
16
Weak
Quality Momentum

Predicted probability of operating margin improvement over the next 12 months

  • Predictability is the strongest dimension at 87/100.
  • Competitive moat is the weakest area at 38/100 and needs attention.
  • Average gross margin of 9.7% over 5 years.
  • Positive free cash flow in 6 of the last 6 years.
  • Debt-to-equity ratio of 0.66x.

What is the fair value of Universal Health Services stock?

Is Universal Health Services a good investment at $145?

$145.19
Important Disclaimer:

The following analysis is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute financial advice, investment advice, or a recommendation to buy or sell any security. The opinions expressed are based on publicly available information and historical data. Beanvest and its contributors may hold positions in the securities mentioned. Investors should conduct their own due diligence or consult a licensed financial advisor before making any investment decision.

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