Verizon (VZ) Gets Target Hike From TD Cowen on Better-Than-Expected Phone Adds

Core Insights - Verizon Communications Inc. has been recognized among the Dividend Champions, Contenders, and Challengers List, highlighting its strong dividend yield [1] - TD Cowen raised its price target for Verizon from $51 to $54, maintaining a Buy rating due to better-than-expected phone subscriber additions in Q4, despite some impact on EBITDA [2] - Verizon reported its strongest net customer additions since 2019 in Q4 2025, meeting its full-year guidance, which is a significant indicator of telecom growth [3] Financial Performance - Verizon's operating revenue for the full year increased by 2.5% to $138.2 billion, with a notable 12% rise in share price on the earnings release day [4] - The company generated $20.1 billion in free cash flow over the past year, up from $19.8 billion the previous year, providing a solid cushion for dividend payments of approximately $11.6 billion [5] Strategic Developments - Verizon completed its acquisition of Frontier Communications in January, which enhances its fiber footprint and supports long-term growth strategies [4] - The company operates as a holding entity providing a range of communication, technology, information, and streaming services to various customer segments [6]