Why Labcorp Holdings Inc. (LH) Stock Is Up Today: Q3 2026 Earnings
Earnings results
- EPS beat +3.0%
Actual: $4.78 · Cons.: $4.64 (adjusted diluted EPS)
- Revenue beat +1.3%
Actual: $3.81B · Cons.: $3.76B (reported revenue)
- Guidance
Raised FY2026 adjusted EPS to $18.30–$18.70 from $18.10–$18.55.
Earnings and the stock move
Labcorp raised its annual adjusted profit forecast to $18.3–$18.7 per share after its third-quarter results. Revenue growth, a stronger biopharma margin and higher free cash flow support the upgrade. Investors can now judge the business against that higher earnings target, while watching whether testing demand and cash generation remain strong.
Q3 2026 earnings recap
Labcorp rose 8.53% to $359.41 during trading on October 28, 2026 after raising its full-year profit outlook. Stronger cash generation adds support to the earnings improvement.
- Third-quarter revenue rose 6.9% to $3.81 billion, above the $3.76 billion estimate. Growth excluding acquisitions and currency effects was 5.5%.
- Adjusted EPS, or profit per share excluding specified costs, was $4.78 versus a $4.64 estimate. That is a 3.0% beat; reported GAAP profit per share was $3.22.
- The annual adjusted profit forecast increased to $18.3–$18.7 per share from $18.1–$18.55. The upgrade gives investors a higher target for the final quarter.
- Biopharma laboratory revenue grew 8.5%, and its adjusted operating margin rose to 18.3% from 16.5%. This business provides laboratory work used in developing medicines.
- Free cash flow increased to $412.2 million from $280.5 million. More cash after capital spending gives Labcorp greater room to fund its business.
- The rally moved beyond the August highs around $338–$342. Holding that area on a pullback would support the breakout; losing the $326–$332 October range would weaken it.
The next test is converting the higher outlook into results and sustained cash flow. Reimbursement pressure, acquisition integration and weaker testing demand remain risks.
Financials and technicals
Charts through Oct 27, 2026. The session move above may reflect later news.
Technical setup and risks
The earnings rally exceeded the prior August high zone of $338–$342. Watch that area on a retest and the earlier $326–$332 October range; neither is a guaranteed floor.
AI-assisted research with source and calculation checks. Prices may be delayed. Technical charts use the stated completed session, which can precede the quoted intraday move. Educational information; investing involves risk.