Verizon Stock Before Q4 Earnings: A Sensible Buy or Risky Move?

Core Viewpoint - Verizon Communications Inc. is set to report its fourth-quarter 2025 earnings on January 30, 2026, with sales and earnings estimates at $35.94 billion and $1.06 per share, respectively. Earnings estimates have slightly declined due to a challenging macroeconomic environment [1][6]. Earnings Estimates - The current earnings per share (EPS) estimates for Verizon are $1.06 for Q4 2025, $1.19 for Q1 2026, $4.68 for fiscal year 2025, and $4.81 for fiscal year 2026. Over the past 60 days, EPS estimates have decreased from $4.70 to $4.68 for 2025 and from $4.85 to $4.81 for 2026 [2][6]. Earnings Surprise History - Verizon has a strong history of exceeding earnings expectations, with an average earnings surprise of 2.37% over the last four quarters. The last reported quarter saw an earnings surprise of 1.68% [2]. Earnings Prediction - The current Earnings Surprise Prediction (ESP) for Verizon is -1.99%, and it holds a Zacks Rank of 4 (Sell), indicating a lower likelihood of an earnings beat for the upcoming quarter [3]. Factors Influencing Results - Upcoming results may be positively impacted by new 5G products and optical ring deployments, which are expected to boost revenues in both Consumer and Business segments. However, margin pressures are anticipated due to 5G costs, price promotions, and wireline losses amid rising competition [6][10]. Product and Service Innovations - Verizon has introduced various pricing options in wireless and home broadband plans, which have historically led to increased adoption of 5G devices. The launch of the 5G Network Slice - Enhanced Internet offers high performance and reliability, likely contributing to customer growth and revenue increases [7][8]. Infrastructure Developments - The completion of a 100G dedicated optical ring for Monumental Sports & Entertainment is expected to enhance network resiliency and operational efficiency, potentially leading to increased revenues in the Business segment [9]. Financial Performance - Over the past year, Verizon's stock has decreased by 2%, outperforming the industry decline of 9.4%. Compared to peers like AT&T and T-Mobile, Verizon has shown better relative performance [12]. Valuation Metrics - Verizon's shares are currently trading at a forward price/earnings ratio of 8.2, which is lower than the industry average of 11.14 and the stock's historical mean of 8.81, indicating an attractive valuation [14]. Investment Considerations - The company is well-positioned for future growth through investments in fiber infrastructure and new technologies, which may lead to subscriber growth and increased average revenue per user. However, high capital expenditures and competitive pressures may impact margins and revenue growth [15][16]. Strategic Focus - Verizon's customer-centric strategy and strong 5G network are driving momentum in the wireless sector, although competition and challenges in the Business segment remain concerns. Macroeconomic factors are also affecting investor sentiment [17].