What is the expected timeline for the class action to progress through the courts? | CNC (Aug 12, 2025) | Candlesense

What is the expected timeline for the class action to progress through the courts?

Expected court timeline

A securities‑class‑action of this size normally follows a multi‑stage schedule:

  1. Initial filing & pleading (now – August 12 2025).
  2. Discovery & motions – 6‑9 months to exchange documents, depose key Centene executives and address any “motion to dismiss” challenges.
  3. Pre‑trial resolution – most cases settle before trial; historically 12‑18 months after filing, i.e., late 2026.
  4. If no settlement, trial – an additional 3‑6 months, pushing a final judgment into mid‑2027.

Thus, investors can reasonably expect the class action to be in the discovery‑and‑motion phase through the remainder of 2025 and into early 2026, with a likely settlement or resolution by the end of 2026. A full trial, should it be required, would not be expected until mid‑2027.

Trading implications

  • Short‑term (next 3‑6 months): The filing itself is a neutral‑to‑slightly‑negative catalyst (‑65 sentiment) as it flags potential liability for Centene. Expect modest downward pressure, especially on the “loss‑leader” stocks that were bought in the affected window (Dec 2024 – Jun 2025).
  • Mid‑term (12‑18 months): If the case moves toward a settlement, the market will price in a single‑digit‑percentage hit to Centene’s equity (typical settlements range from 3‑7 % of market cap). This could create a buying opportunity for long‑term holders once the settlement is announced and the uncertainty is removed.
  • Long‑term (beyond 2026): Should the case proceed to trial, the risk premium widens, and the stock may stay depressed until a definitive judgment. In that scenario, a risk‑off tilt toward defensive sectors would be prudent, while maintaining a watch on any new filings or updates from Robbins LLP that could accelerate the timeline.

Actionable take‑away: Keep a close watch on Robbins LLP communications and any court docket updates. If a settlement is announced in late 2026, consider a strategic entry on pull‑backs (5‑10 % below the pre‑settlement low) with a modest stop‑loss, as the removal of litigation risk typically fuels a rebound. Conversely, if the case drifts into a trial phase, tighten exposure and hedge with options or sector‑neutral positions until the outcome is clearer.