Core Insights - AT&T's Chief Operating Officer, Jeff McElfresh, will provide an update on the company's growth strategy at the Morgan Stanley Technology, Media & Telecom Conference on March 3, 2026 [1] - The company reaffirms its financial and operational guidance for 2026 and plans for capital returns, including over $45 billion to shareholders from 2026 to 2028 [1] Fiber Expansion - AT&T's fiber services now reach over 36 million customer locations, with expectations to exceed 60 million by the end of 2030 [1] - The recent acquisition of fiber assets from Lumen added over 1 million fiber subscribers and expanded service to 32 states, increasing fiber penetration from approximately 25% in the acquired areas [1] - The company anticipates reaching over 40 million fiber locations by the end of 2026, up from 32 million at the end of 2025, and plans to add about 5 million additional locations annually thereafter [1] Customer Engagement and Market Position - AT&T ranks 1 in brand love among consumers in its fiber footprint, indicating strong customer engagement [1] - The combination of fiber and fixed wireless services allows AT&T to offer converged services to over half the country, enhancing its position as a trusted provider for home and mobile connectivity [1] Financial Outlook - AT&T expects improved growth in adjusted EBITDA and adjusted EPS, along with higher free cash flow through 2028 [1] - Following the acquisition of EchoStar, the net debt-to-adjusted EBITDA ratio is projected to rise to approximately 3.2x, with a target to reduce it to around 3x by the end of 2026 [1] - The company aims to return to a net leverage level consistent with its target in the 2.5x range within three years post-acquisition [1]