Lendingtree Inc Stock Price, News & Analysis

According to a recent ValuePenguin survey, 60% of Americans postponed medical appointments during the COVID-19 pandemic, primarily to avoid virus exposure. Additionally, 50% reported going a day or more without necessary medications, with 30.1% citing stock shortages and 21% due to mail delays. Concerns over healthcare access surged, with 31% worried about long wait times. The survey, conducted from Sept. 11-14, 2020, included 1,028 respondents, revealing significant impacts of the pandemic on health behaviors.

On Sept. 22, 2020, QuoteWizard, a LendingTree company, released a report detailing the significant impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on healthcare spending. The report highlights a staggering 43% drop in hospital spending and 37% decline for physician offices in April. Furthermore, the American Hospital Association projects a total loss of $323.1 billion for 2020. As a result, rural hospitals face increased closure risks, with 12 closures already reported in the first half of the year. Overall, the pandemic has compounded financial challenges for healthcare providers.

According to a recent survey by CompareCards, only 33% of Americans checked their credit reports in the past year, down from 39% in 2019 and 37% in 2018. Alarmingly, just 20% of individuals aged 75 and older reviewed their credit reports, increasing their vulnerability to fraud. Although consumers report heightened concern about identity theft, actions to mitigate risks have decreased. 47% of cardholders faced data breaches, with many unprepared despite available resources for credit monitoring. The survey indicates that pandemic-related distractions may contribute to reduced vigilance in protecting personal information.

QuoteWizard, a LendingTree company, released a report detailing how top health insurers have reported record profits during the COVID-19 pandemic. Companies like UnitedHealth Group, Humana, and Anthem experienced billion-dollar profits in Q2 2020, doubling year-over-year. Despite rising unemployment and healthcare challenges, these insurers thrived, with United Healthcare reporting a medical loss ratio of 70.2%. The report also highlights significant increases in employer health care premiums, which rose by 57% since 2009, averaging $7,459 annually.

According to a survey by ValuePenguin.com, part of LendingTree (NASDAQ: TREE), 30% of Americans with vehicles have halted their commutes due to COVID-19, with 19% working from home and 10% laid off. As of August 2020, 26% have resumed daily commutes. The survey indicates a significant drop in weekly gas purchases, down 26%. Moreover, over a quarter of drivers adjusted their auto insurance to save costs. Notably, 16% of respondents ceased rideshare usage entirely. The survey, conducted on 1,105 Americans, reflects changing driving habits in response to the pandemic.

In a recent survey by CompareCards, 67% of parents reported increased stress over back-to-school shopping, up from 43% in 2019. The average expected spending per shopper has risen by 11.7% to $478. Debt concerns are also on the rise, with 30% of parents anticipating this year's expenses will force them into debt, compared to 26% last year. Online shopping is significantly up, with 44% planning to shop online versus 13% in 2019. Key categories projected for increased spending include electronics, office supplies, and athletic equipment.