Qualcomm Announces $20 Billion Share Buyback

Wireless tech giant plans to repurchase up to 14.5% of outstanding shares.

Mar. 18, 2026 at 2:05am

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Qualcomm (NASDAQ:QCOM), the global semiconductor and telecommunications equipment company headquartered in San Diego, California, has announced a new $20 billion share repurchase program. The buyback authorization will allow the company to purchase up to 14.5% of its outstanding shares through open market transactions.

Why it matters

Qualcomm's decision to initiate a major share buyback signals that the company's leadership believes its stock is currently undervalued. Buybacks are often seen as a way for companies to return capital to shareholders and boost their stock price when management feels the market is not properly reflecting the company's true worth.

The details

The $20 billion share repurchase plan was approved by Qualcomm's board of directors on March 17, 2026. The authorization allows the company to buy back its shares through open market purchases over an unspecified timeframe. Qualcomm's previous buyback program, announced in 2023, had authorized $10 billion in repurchases.

  • Qualcomm's board approved the $20 billion share buyback on March 17, 2026.

The players

Qualcomm

A global semiconductor and telecommunications equipment company headquartered in San Diego, California. Qualcomm is known for its development of wireless technologies and central role in the evolution of digital cellular standards.

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The takeaway

Qualcomm's decision to initiate a major $20 billion share buyback program underscores the company's confidence in its long-term prospects and belief that its stock is currently undervalued by the market. This move is likely to be well-received by investors as it signals Qualcomm's commitment to enhancing shareholder value.