Becker Private Equity & Business Podcast: Episode Summary Title: 5 Stories We Are Following Today
Host: Scott Becker
Release Date: July 28, 2025

In this episode of the Becker Private Equity & Business Podcast, host Scott Becker delves into five pivotal stories shaping the current business and private equity landscape. From international trade agreements to significant movements in the technology and healthcare sectors, Becker provides insightful analysis and expert commentary to keep listeners informed and engaged.

1. EU-US Tariff Deal Boosts Market Sentiment

The episode kicks off with positive news from the global trade front. Scott Becker discusses the recent EU-US tariff agreement, highlighting its potential to alleviate ongoing trade tensions.

Scott Becker [00:30]: "I think many people probably think that President Trump is pulling rabbits out of the hat wherever they think they're pulling it from. But this is obviously good news to see some of these trade wars soften and move in the right direction."

Becker emphasizes the market's optimistic reaction to the deal, noting that rising markets reflect investor confidence in a more stable and predictable trading environment. This agreement is seen as a step towards reducing uncertainties that have previously hindered economic growth and investment.

2. Palantir Technologies' Meteoric Rise

Next, Becker shifts focus to Palantir Technologies, a standout performer in the tech sector. The company has seen an impressive 110% year-to-date increase, propelling it into the ranks of the top 20 companies by market capitalization globally.

Scott Becker [02:15]: "Can Palantir become a trillion dollar company?"

Becker explores the factors contributing to Palantir's rapid growth, including its robust data analytics solutions and expanding client base. He poses the intriguing question of whether Palantir can sustain this momentum to reach a $1 trillion valuation, considering market dynamics and competitive pressures.

3. Challenges in the Health Insurance Industry

The third story delves into the pressing issues faced by health insurance companies. Becker highlights a concerning trend where increased utilization of medical benefits is driving up medical loss ratios.

Scott Becker [04:50]: "People are using their medical benefits more, meaning the medical loss ratios have gone up. This means challenges for the insurers. It also means increasing premiums for us. Sort of a disaster."

This surge in medical costs poses significant challenges for insurers, potentially leading to higher premiums for consumers. Becker discusses the sustainability of this trend and its implications for both the insurance industry and policyholders.

4. Year-to-Date Performance of Major Health Insurance Stocks

Becker provides a snapshot of the stock performance of five leading health insurance companies, offering a mixed outlook on the sector.

• Centene: Down 53% year-to-date
• UnitedHealthcare: Down 44% year-to-date
• Elevance: Down 21% year-to-date
• Cigna: Up 7% year-to-date
• CVS: Up 33% year-to-date

Scott Becker [07:20]: "So there are some positive ink there as well."

While Centene, UnitedHealthcare, and Elevance are experiencing significant declines, Cigna and CVS show positive gains, suggesting varying degrees of resilience and strategic effectiveness within the industry. Becker briefly analyzes possible reasons behind these divergent performances, such as company-specific strategies and broader market conditions.

5. Intel Faces Turbulence Under New Leadership

The final story centers on Intel Corporation, which has recently faced a sharp decline in stock value.

Scott Becker [09:10]: "Friday stock fell nearly 9%. The new CEO says they will cut 15,000 more jobs, combine assembly at plants and hold on building a new plant."

Becker reports that Intel's stock plummeted by nearly 9% as the company announces further cost-cutting measures, including substantial job cuts and consolidation of manufacturing operations. He references a commentator’s view on the new CEO:

Commentator Stefan Guilfoyle: "It's been since 2018 since Intel has had a competent CEO and he believes this new one is a competent CEO. Need to give him a chance."

Becker ponders the potential turnaround under the new leadership, highlighting the delicate balance between implementing necessary austerity measures and maintaining investor and market confidence.

Conclusion

In this episode, Scott Becker offers a comprehensive overview of critical developments in international trade, technology growth, healthcare challenges, and corporate leadership. Through detailed analysis and strategic insights, Becker equips listeners with a nuanced understanding of the factors influencing today's private equity and business environments.

Thank you for tuning into the Becker Private Equity & Business Podcast—stay informed and ahead in the ever-evolving business landscape.