Verizon Reports Better Than Expected Results For Q4 2024
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Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE, Nasdaq: VZ) concluded the fourth quarter of 2024 with notable achievements in customer growth and profitability. The company reported the addition of nearly one million postpaid mobile and broadband subscribers, marking its best quarterly result in over a decade. Total wireless service revenue reached an industry-leading $20 billion, underscoring the company’s robust performance in this sector.
The quarter also saw Verizon’s consolidated net income rise to $5.1 billion, a significant improvement from the net loss of $2.6 billion recorded in the same period of the previous year.
Verizon Outperforms Expectations with Q4 2024 Results
The company’s operating revenue for the fourth quarter stood at $35.7 billion, reflecting a 1.6% increase compared to the fourth quarter of 2023. This growth was driven by a combination of wireless service revenue expansion and higher upgrade volumes, although it was partially offset by a decline in Business wireline revenue. Verizon’s adjusted EBITDA for the quarter was $11.9 billion, up from $11.7 billion in the previous year, supported by the strength in wireless services.
Verizon’s wireless segment continued to thrive, with wireless service revenue growing for the 18th consecutive quarter. The company reported total postpaid phone net additions of 568,000, an increase from 449,000 in the same quarter of 2023. Additionally, broadband net additions reached 408,000, maintaining a steady pace of growth in this area. These results highlight Verizon’s ability to capture market share and meet consumer demand for its offerings.
Verizon’s fourth-quarter earnings per share (EPS) of $1.18 exceeded the market expectation of $1.09, showcasing the company’s ability to outperform analyst predictions. The adjusted EPS, excluding special items, was $1.10, slightly above the anticipated figure. In terms of revenue, Verizon reported $35.7 billion for the quarter, surpassing the projected $35.35 billion. This performance reaffirms the company’s solid execution of its strategic initiatives and its capacity to deliver value to shareholders.
The company’s full-year 2024 EPS of $4.14, compared to $2.75 in the previous year, indicates a substantial improvement in profitability. However, the adjusted EPS for the year was $4.59, a slight decrease from the $4.71 recorded in 2023. Despite this minor decline, Verizon’s total operating revenue for the year grew by 0.6% to $134.8 billion, demonstrating resilience in the face of challenging market conditions.
Verizon’s ability to exceed expectations in both EPS and revenue for the fourth quarter is a testament to its strong market position and effective management strategies. The company’s focus on expanding its wireless service revenue and enhancing customer relationships has been instrumental in achieving these results.
Verizon Anticipates Total Wireless Service Revenue Growth Between 2% to 8% for 2025
Looking ahead to 2025, Verizon has set ambitious targets to sustain its growth trajectory. The company anticipates total wireless service revenue growth of 2.0% to 2.8%, driven by continued customer additions and pricing actions. Adjusted EBITDA is expected to grow between 2.0% and 3.5%, reflecting Verizon’s commitment to maintaining operational efficiency and profitability.
Verizon also projects adjusted EPS growth of 0% to 3.0% for 2025, indicating a cautious yet optimistic outlook for earnings. The company expects cash flow from operations to range between $35.0 billion and $37.0 billion, providing a strong foundation for future investments and shareholder returns. Capital expenditures are forecasted to be between $17.5 billion and $18.5 billion, supporting Verizon’s ongoing efforts to enhance its network infrastructure.
Free cash flow is anticipated to be in the range of $17.5 billion to $18.5 billion, underscoring Verizon’s financial strength and ability to generate significant cash reserves. These projections highlight the company’s strategic focus on driving growth while maintaining fiscal discipline, positioning Verizon well for continued success in the coming year.
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Disclaimer: The author does not hold or have a position in any securities discussed in the article.