Chemed Co.

Chemed shares closed at $552.05, marking a new 52-week high; market capitalization is about $7.15 billion and the stock is up 28.75% year-to-date. For the second quarter Chemed reported adjusted earnings of $6.06 per share on revenue of $673.25 million, beating analysts' expectations. Growth in hospice unit VITAS and steady results from Roto-Rooter drove the performance; the company also raised its outlook for the remainder of the year. » More on de.investing.com

Activist investor Barington Capital is pressing Chemed for a comprehensive strategic review and is seeking a renewal of the board. Barington criticizes that Chemed’s two business units, Vitas Healthcare and Roto-Rooter, are not delivering maximum value and have underperformed their peer group and the market. The investor demands plans to boost profits, potential restructurings to strengthen Roto-Rooter, cost cuts including reductions in certain fringe benefits, and a revamp of the compensation program. Barington has already held talks with CEO Kevin McNamara and CFO Michael Witzeman and has nominated a candidate for the board. » More on de.investing.com

Chemed’s stock reached a new 52-week high of $512.92 and is currently trading near that peak at $511.85. Over the past year the price rose 13.49%, and it is up 19.52% year-to-date. InvestingPro rates the stock as undervalued with a financial grade of "VERY GOOD." Chemed also beat Q1-2026 expectations (EPS $5.65 vs. $5.34, revenue $657.5m vs. $651.02m) and prompted an RBC price-target upgrade from $422 to $436; the advisory vote on executive compensation was rejected at the annual general meeting. » More on de.investing.com