UPS profit tops forecasts as job cuts, turnaround efforts deliver

Core Insights - United Parcel Service (UPS) reported better-than-expected results, indicating progress in its overhaul efforts after a challenging year marked by weak volumes and job cuts [1][2] - UPS shares rose 12.1% in premarket trading, reflecting positive market sentiment following the earnings report [1] Financial Performance - UPS projected fourth-quarter revenue to be approximately $24 billion, surpassing analysts' expectations of $23.8 billion [2] - The company reported an adjusted profit of $1.74 per share for the three months ended September 30, exceeding the average analyst estimate of $1.30 [7] Strategic Initiatives - UPS is focusing on rate hikes, cost reductions, and prioritizing high-margin shipments to stabilize its business ahead of the holiday season [3] - The company is implementing significant cost-saving measures, including closing hundreds of facilities and cutting 48,000 jobs, aiming to save $3.5 billion by 2025 [6] Market Context - The peak holiday shipping season, which can see UPS's daily average volumes double, runs from November to the end of January [5] - UPS is reducing the number of packages delivered for its largest customer, Amazon, to enhance profit margins [4]