Should Verizon Stock Be in Your Portfolio Pre Q3 Earnings?
VerizonVerizon(US:VZ) ZACKS·2025-10-27 19:06

Core Insights - Verizon Communications Inc. is set to report Q3 2025 earnings on October 29, with sales and earnings estimates at $34.18 billion and $1.19 per share respectively [1][7] - Earnings estimates for 2025 and 2026 have slightly decreased, indicating a tempered outlook for the company [1][7] - The company has a strong earnings surprise history, exceeding expectations in the last four quarters with an average surprise of 2.16% [2][3] Financial Performance - The current earnings estimates for Q3 2025 remain unchanged at $1.19 per share, while estimates for 2025 and 2026 have decreased from $4.70 to $4.69 and from $4.94 to $4.92 respectively over the past 30 days [2][7] - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for revenues from the Consumer segment is $26.23 billion, while the Business segment is estimated at $7.28 billion [12] Competitive Landscape - Verizon faces stiff competition from AT&T and T-Mobile, particularly in the business segment, which may pressure its margins [7][8] - The company has introduced new plans targeting specific demographics, such as a 55+ plan in Florida, to expand its customer base [8] Strategic Initiatives - Verizon has launched Tracfone Freedom, a prepaid plan offering unlimited services for $45 per month, supported by its 5G network [9] - Partnerships, such as with the Tampa Police Department for deploying 5G smartphones, aim to enhance its service offerings [10] Market Position - Over the past year, Verizon's stock has declined by 6.1%, underperforming its peers, with AT&T gaining 14.5% [13] - The company's price/earnings ratio stands at 7.96, which is lower than the industry average of 12.01, indicating a potentially attractive valuation [14] Growth Drivers and Challenges - Verizon is experiencing growth in the Consumer segment, driven by 5G adoption and tailored customer solutions [17] - However, weakness in the Business segment and intense competition in 5G and broadband services are significant challenges [19][20]