Verizon Communications (VZ 0.06%), a leading provider of telecommunications services, released its earnings for the third quarter of 2024 on October 22.
The company reported that total operating revenue remained flat at $33.33 billion, just under the previous year's $33.34 billion. Adjusted earnings per share (EPS), a crucial profitability measure, was slightly down at $1.19 compared to $1.22 in third-quarter 2023. Net income reported a substantial decline, from $4.88 billion down to $3.41 billion, indicating pressures within the industry.
The quarter's performance spotlighted robust growth in the wireless segment but highlighted challenges in maintaining profitability.
| Metric | Q3 2024 | Q3 2023 | % Change YoY |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adjusted EPS | $1.19 | $1.22 | -2.5% |
| Total Operating Revenue | $33.3 billion | $33.336 billion | -0.1% |
| Net Income | $3.411 billion | $4.884 billion | -30.2% |
| Consumer Segment Revenue | $25.4 billion | $25.3 billion | 0.4% |
Source: SEC filings.
Company Overview and Recent Developments
As a major player in the U.S. telecommunications industry, Verizon operates through its Consumer and Business segments. It emphasizes strong network infrastructure and technological evolution, particularly with its investments in 5G technology. Critical to its strategy is maintaining a competitive network, managing spectrum licenses effectively, and driving innovation in services and products.
Verizon has been enhancing its 5G capabilities, underscored by a recent strategic move to sell 6,339 wireless towers to communications infrastructure specialist Vertical Bridge. This leaseback deal, worth $3.3 billion, will help Verizon reinvest into its core network services while maintaining long-term access to necessary infrastructure. The company continues to expand its 5G coverage, highlighting significant advancements in network reliability and speed.
Quarterly Performance Analysis
During the quarter, Verizon's adjusted EPS fell to $1.19, a slight decrease from the previous year's $1.22, indicating tighter profit margins. Total operating revenue held steady at $33.3 billion, reflecting competitive dynamics and stabilization efforts across its core segments. Significant growth was noted in wireless service revenue at 2.7%, contributing to $19.8 billion. This indicates Verizon's growing market share in telecom services, supported by increased consumer demand for reliable wireless connectivity.
However, the company faced challenges in its Business segment, which saw a 2.3% revenue decline year-over-year to $7.4 billion, emphasizing competitive pressures and demand shifts. Another critical factor was the $1.7 billion severance charge impacting operating income, part of strategic restructuring efforts to streamline operations amidst industry competition.
Managing customer churn remains crucial, with a postpaid phone churn rate of 0.89%, which it managed to maintain effectively despite price adjustments. Meanwhile, Verizon added 239,000 retail postpaid phone connections, reflecting successful acquisition strategies.
Financial Outlook and Future Guidance
Looking forward, Verizon's management has projected wireless service revenue growth between 2.0% to 3.5% and adjusted EBITDA growth of 1.0% to 3.0% for 2024. It plans capital expenditures in the range of $17.0 billion to $17.5 billion, focusing on core network services and broadening its 5G and fiber capabilities. These investments signify a strategic emphasis on maintaining network integrity and enhancing customer satisfaction amid ongoing market competition.
Investors will want to monitor Verizon's ability to effectively implement its strategic initiatives, manage operational costs, and deliver on its forecasts in the coming quarters. As the telecom landscape continues to evolve, the company's success will hinge on adapting its offerings and leveraging its network capabilities to secure its position in key markets.
