TELUS(TU) - 2025 Q4 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - TELUS achieved record free cash flow of CAD 2.2 billion for the full year 2025, representing an increase of 11% over 2024, exceeding the annual target [8] - The company reported a T-Tech adjusted EBITDA increase of 3.1% for 2025, demonstrating disciplined execution and a focus on cost efficiency [8][24] - The net debt to EBITDA leverage ratio improved to 3.4 times at the end of 2025, with expectations to reach approximately 3.3 times or lower by the end of 2026 [20][28] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - In the fourth quarter, TELUS achieved total telecom customer net additions of 377,000, with wireless driving strong net additions of 337,000 [9] - The company reported 1.1 million full mobile and fixed customer net additions in 2025, including record connected device net additions of 716,000 [5][6] - TELUS Health experienced a 13% increase in operating revenues and a 10% increase in adjusted EBITDA, attributed to the acquisition of Workplace Options and organic growth [26] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - TELUS maintained an industry-leading postpaid mobile phone churn rate of 0.97% for the full year 2025, marking the twelfth consecutive year below the 1% threshold [7] - The company reported a decline in ARPU of 1.6%, but noted an accelerated sequential improvement, reflecting effective go-to-market strategies [24][25] Company Strategy and Development Direction - TELUS is focused on amplifying profitable revenue expansion while maintaining cost efficiencies, positioning itself for sustainable value-accretive growth [21] - The company plans to leverage its AI capabilities to drive down costs and improve operational efficiencies, targeting CAD 150 million to CAD 200 million in annual cash synergies [16][94] - TELUS aims to grow its AI-enabling capabilities revenue from approximately CAD 800 million in 2025 to around CAD 2 billion by 2028 [14][15] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in delivering sustained profitable growth, supported by a robust asset mix and diversified business portfolio [30] - The company anticipates consolidated service revenue and adjusted EBITDA growth of up to 4% in 2026, alongside a free cash flow target of approximately CAD 2.45 billion [20][29] - Management emphasized the importance of maintaining healthy industry economics and brand differentiation amidst competitive pressures [36][84] Other Important Information - The company announced a leadership transition, with Victor Dodig set to become CEO effective July 1, 2026, following Darren's retirement [3][4] - TELUS is exploring strategic investment opportunities for TELUS Health and TELUS Agriculture and Consumer Goods, alongside monetization of real estate and copper assets [19][20] Q&A Session Summary Question: Current wireless environment and strategy on flanker vs. fighter brands - Management acknowledged the promotional environment and emphasized the importance of brand differentiation to maintain healthy industry economics [36] Question: Improvement in ARPU trend - Management confirmed that the improvement in ARPU is organic and expected to continue, driven by better customer value propositions [64] Question: Guidance for revenue and EBITDA growth - Management indicated that growth will come from telecom, TELUS Digital, and TELUS Health, with expectations of double-digit EBITDA growth from both digital and health segments [51] Question: Changes in CEO and potential impact on capital allocation - Management assured continuity in growth initiatives and capital allocation strategies despite the leadership transition [68]