Johnson & Johnson is currently exploring a potential spin-off of its orthopedic-surgery products division. Chief Financial Officer Joseph Wolk confirmed discussions with investment firm Apollo Global Management regarding the unit, a move intended to streamline the company's focus amidst ongoing legal pressures.

In contrast, UnitedHealth Group saw its stock climb following a strong earnings report that eclipsed analyst projections. As the largest U.S. insurer by enrollees, the company’s decision to lift its annual guidance signals successful progress in its current turnaround strategy. Meanwhile, CVS Health faced a significant setback, agreeing to a $315 million settlement. The payment resolves allegations that a company unit illegally processed opioid prescriptions and submitted fraudulent claims to Medicare, marking a costly chapter for the pharmacy chain.