Verizon Reports Strong Third Quarter, Beating Analysts’ Estimates

Verizon Communications, Inc. reported a strong Q3 2019 driven by solid gains in wireless customers.

The telecommunications provider reported the “most third-quarter phone gross additions in five years.” In particular, Verizon saw significant growth in postpaid phone subscribers, the most lucrative and sought-after type of customers that wireless companies work to attract.

Verizon also saw an increase of 2.1 percent in customer wireless revenue thanks to customers upgrading to higher-tier plans. This was no doubt encouraged by the company announcing new unlimited data plans in August, with each tier being $5 cheaper than on the previous plans.

“Verizon continued its momentum in the third quarter by driving strong wireless volumes in both our Consumer and Business segments, while delivering solid financial results, highlighted by continued wireless service revenue growth, increased cash flow, and EPS growth,” said Chairman and CEO Hans Vestberg. “We are focused on our 5G rollout strategy, looking to deploy next-generation networks while enhancing our industry-leading 4G LTE network. Going into the fourth quarter, we are energized by the strong performance of the business and we are confident in our strategy to drive value for our customers and growth for our shareholders.”

According to the report, “for third-quarter 2019, Verizon reported EPS of $1.25, compared with $1.19 in third-quarter 2018. The company’s reported earnings include a minimal net impact from special items: a net pre-tax gain of $261 million from dispositions of assets and businesses that was offset by a pension re-measurement pre-tax charge of $291 million. On an adjusted basis (non-GAAP), third-quarter 2019 EPS, excluding special items, was $1.25, compared with adjusted EPS of $1.22 in third-quarter 2018.

“In third-quarter 2019, Verizon’s results included the effects of a reduction in benefits from the adoption of a revenue recognition standard, primarily due to the deferral of commission expense, and the adoption of a lease accounting standard. The combined net impact was a 4 cent headwind in third-quarter 2019, and 13 cents year-to-date, which is included in the year-over-year increase in adjusted EPS.”

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