Cramer's Thoughts: AGNC Not a Growth Vehicle

Jim Cramer advises against AGNC due to its lack of growth potential, while expressing mixed views on UnitedHealth Group, citing ongoing investigations but also acknowledging some investors' optimism. Cramer emphasizes the importance of growth and advises investors to take a cautious approach.

Title: Jim Cramer's Mixed Advice on UnitedHealth Group and AGNC Investment Corp

Jim Cramer, the renowned financial commentator, offered a mixed perspective on UnitedHealth Group (UNH) and AGNC Investment Corp (AGNC) during his recent "Mad Money" segment. While he expressed caution regarding AGNC due to its lack of growth potential, Cramer's stance on UnitedHealth Group was more nuanced, acknowledging ongoing investigations while also highlighting some investors' optimism.

UnitedHealth Group (UNH)

Cramer's comments on UnitedHealth Group were influenced by the company's Medicare Advantage business. UnitedHealth reported that 78% of its Medicare Advantage enrollees are likely to qualify for bonus payments from the federal government, based on preliminary ratings from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Why UnitedHealth Group Stock Soared on Tuesday^[2]. This news contributed to a 9% increase in UNH's stock price, although it remains down about 30% year-to-date. The Medicare Advantage plans with ratings of 4 stars or higher are eligible for quality bonus payments, which can be used to lower costs or provide additional benefits to plan participants. The CMS is expected to distribute $12.7 billion in bonus payments to Medicare Advantage plans in 2025, according to a Kaiser Family Foundation analysis Why UnitedHealth Group Stock Soared on Tuesday^[2].

Despite the positive outlook, UnitedHealth Group has faced increased scrutiny and public outrage over high healthcare and drug costs. Shares of UNH suffered their worst day in over 25 years in April after the company cut its full-year earnings outlook due to heightened care activity indications in its Medicare Advantage business. Cramer acknowledged these challenges but also noted that some investors remain optimistic about the company's long-term prospects.

AGNC Investment Corp (AGNC)

Cramer advised against investing in AGNC due to its lack of growth potential. AGNC, a mortgage REIT, has been facing margin compression as a result of 4.3% wage growth and risks associated with the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) driving inflation U.S. Nonfarm Productivity: A Tectonic Shift in Sector Dynamics and Investment Strategy^[1]. The company's net interest margins have contracted by 12–15% in Q2 2025, as borrowing costs rose 62 basis points amid a 3% drop in 10-year Treasury prices U.S. Nonfarm Productivity: A Tectonic Shift in Sector Dynamics and Investment Strategy^[1]. The OBBBA, which adds $2.4 trillion to the deficit, has fueled inflationary expectations and increased the risk of further rate hikes, putting additional pressure on mREITs like AGNC.

Cramer's advice to investors is to take a cautious approach and avoid sectors with limited growth potential, such as AGNC. Instead, he suggests focusing on sectors with strong productivity gains and growth prospects.

Conclusion

Jim Cramer's mixed views on UnitedHealth Group and AGNC highlight the importance of growth and the need for investors to stay informed about ongoing investigations and market dynamics. While UnitedHealth Group's Medicare Advantage business presents opportunities, the company must navigate increased scrutiny and public outrage over high healthcare costs. AGNC, on the other hand, faces significant challenges due to margin compression and inflationary risks, making it a less attractive investment option.

Investors should carefully consider these factors and adjust their portfolios accordingly to navigate the rapidly shifting financial landscape.

References

U.S. Nonfarm Productivity: A Tectonic Shift in Sector Dynamics and Investment Strategy^[1] https://www.ainvest.com/news/nonfarm-productivity-tectonic-shift-sector-dynamics-investment-strategy-2509/
Why UnitedHealth Group Stock Soared on Tuesday^[2] https://www.investopedia.com/why-unitedhealth-group-stock-soared-on-tuesday-unh-medicare-advantage-11806604