Shares in Nib Holdings Ltd (ASX: NHF) are higher in early morning trade after the health insurance provider released an update following market close yesterday.
At the time of writing, the Nib share price is up 3.45% to $6.60.
Here is what investors need to know.
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Premium increases confirmed for 2026
In an ASX announcement, Nib confirmed that its private health insurance premiums will rise by an average of 5.47%.
The increase follows approval from the Federal Minister for Health and Aged Care.
Management said the changes reflect ongoing cost pressures across the healthcare system. These include higher hospital and medical costs, increased use of services, and broader inflationary impacts.
The company noted that more than half of its policyholders will see increases of $3.80 per week or less.
Chief Executive Officer Ed Close said Nib remains focused on affordability and value, while continuing to manage rising claims costs.
During FY25, the group paid $2.3 billion in claims, an increase of almost 9% on the prior year. The company also recorded more than 400,000 hospital admissions and 4.3 million visits to medical providers.
Momentum and key price levels
Looking at the chart, Nib shares have trended lower since late 2025 after peaking above $8 during the year.
The stock closed at $6.38 on Tuesday and is hovering around $6.60 in early trade. Over the past 12 months, it has traded between $5.82 and $8.26.
On the daily chart, Nib is trading near the lower end of that range. The price is closer to the lower Bollinger Band, suggesting softer short-term momentum.
The relative strength index (RSI) is around 40, placing the stock near oversold territory but not at extreme levels. This suggests selling pressure may be easing, though momentum remains weak.
The $5.80 to $6 zone has acted as support over the past year. On the upside, resistance appears near $7, with further resistance around $7.50 based on prior trading activity.
With the shares closer to support than their 12-month high, the next move may hinge on whether support holds.
What investors will be watching next
Premium adjustments are a normal part of the private health insurance cycle and are closely linked to claims trends and healthcare cost inflation.
While higher premiums can support revenue growth, investors will also be monitoring policyholder retention and membership growth in the months ahead.
Nib is scheduled to release its half-year results on Monday, 23 February. The update will provide further detail on margins, claims trends, and management's outlook for the remainder of the year.
