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IHS vs. Anterix: Which Communication Stock Should You Bet On?
ZACKS· 2025-04-22 17:10
Core Viewpoint - IHS Holding Limited (IHS) and Anterix Inc. (ATEX) are competing in the communication-infrastructure industry, both benefiting from the growing demand for scalable infrastructure due to IoT proliferation, cloud transition, and 5G rollout [1] Summary of IHS Holding - IHS is a leading independent owner and operator of shared communications infrastructure, with significant growth driven by its presence in emerging African markets [2] - The company reported revenues of $1.7 billion, reflecting a 48.1% year-over-year organic growth, attributed to increased colocation revenues, lease amendments, and new site developments [3] - IHS is positioned to capitalize on the demand for communication infrastructure, particularly with 5G deployment in Nigeria, where it operates 16,495 towers, a 0.6% increase year-over-year [4] - The company has seen strong momentum in the Sub-Saharan Africa market, adding approximately 100 towers and over 800 tenants in 2024 [5] - Investments in new infrastructure and technologies like BTS and fiber connectivity are expected to enhance colocation opportunities and drive demand for IHS' towers [6] Summary of Anterix Inc. - Anterix is a prominent wireless communications firm benefiting from demand for broadband solutions from utility and critical infrastructure customers [7] - The company plans to monetize its spectrum assets, with the Lower Colorado River Authority set to purchase an additional 900 MHz spectrum license for growth in Texas [8] - The FCC's approval to modify 900 MHz broadband rules will allow Anterix to expand its spectrum, enhancing its ability to meet the demand for private wireless broadband networks [9] - However, Anterix faces challenges with rising operating costs, which increased by 8.6% year-over-year in the first nine months of fiscal 2025, impacting profitability [10] Price Performance and Valuation - IHS shares have increased by 27.5% over the past three months, while ATEX stock has gained only 1.9% [12] - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for IHS' 2025 earnings is 72 cents per share, indicating a 30.9% increase over the past 60 days and a year-over-year growth of 114.7% [14] - In contrast, Anterix's fiscal 2025 estimate stands at a loss of $1.53 per share, reflecting a year-over-year decline of 212.2% [16] - IHS has a forward price-to-earnings ratio of 6.32X, below the industry average of 7.27X, indicating an attractive valuation for investors [16] Conclusion - IHS is expected to experience strong growth in the communication infrastructure market, supported by its investments and attractive valuation, while Anterix's profitability is hindered by rising costs [17] - Based on current factors, IHS is considered a better investment option compared to ATEX, which has a lower Zacks Rank [18]