VZ Rides on Healthy Traction in the Consumer Segment: Will it Persist?

Core Insights - Verizon Communications Inc. is experiencing solid growth in its Consumer segment, with wireless retail connections reaching 115.1 million and service revenues increasing to $20.8 billion, up 2.7% year over year [1][8] - The company is focusing on enhancing its 5G network infrastructure and customer segmentation strategy, which aids in client retention and revenue growth [2][3] Financial Performance - Wireless retail postpaid connections stand at 94.9 million, with a churn rate of 0.9%, indicating strong customer retention [1][8] - Wireless equipment revenues are projected to grow by 6.8% year over year, reaching $20.93 billion in 2025, while wireless retail postpaid ARPA is expected to increase by 9.6% to $151.49 [4] Competitive Landscape - Verizon faces significant competition in the U.S. wireless market from T-Mobile and AT&T, with T-Mobile leading in 5G market share and AT&T focusing on 5G and fiber investments [5][6] - T-Mobile's postpaid churn rate is 0.91%, while AT&T's is lower at 0.83%, reflecting their competitive strategies [5][6] Valuation and Estimates - Verizon's shares are currently trading at a price/earnings ratio of 9.06, which is lower than the industry average of 13.57 but above its historical mean of 8.98 [9] - Earnings estimates for 2025 remain unchanged at $4.69, while estimates for 2026 have improved by 1.23% to $4.92 [10]