Verizon forecasts upbeat annual profit as wireless subscriber growth hits six-year high

Wireless carrier Verizon reports strong Q4 earnings and subscriber growth.

Jan. 30, 2026 at 4:31pm

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Verizon Communications Inc. reported better-than-expected fourth quarter earnings and a forecast for upbeat annual profit as the wireless carrier added the most new subscribers in six years. The company's stock surged on the results, which highlighted Verizon's ability to attract customers despite intense competition in the industry.

Why it matters

Verizon's strong performance underscores the continued demand for wireless services, even as economic uncertainty looms. The company's ability to grow its subscriber base is a positive sign for the broader telecom industry, which has faced challenges from the rise of low-cost competitors and the shift to unlimited data plans.

The details

Verizon added 217,000 monthly phone subscribers in the fourth quarter, the most in six years, as it offered promotions and new 5G devices. The company's adjusted earnings per share of $1.19 beat analysts' estimates of $1.16, while revenue of $35.3 billion also topped expectations. For the full year 2026, Verizon forecast adjusted earnings per share between $5.10 and $5.25, above the $5.07 expected by Wall Street.

  • Verizon reported its fourth quarter 2025 earnings on January 26, 2026.
  • The company added the most monthly phone subscribers in six years during the fourth quarter of 2025.

The players

Verizon Communications Inc.

A major American telecommunications conglomerate and one of the largest wireless carriers in the United States.

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The takeaway

Verizon's strong subscriber growth and earnings guidance demonstrate the resilience of the wireless industry, even in the face of economic headwinds. The company's ability to attract customers and deliver solid financial results suggests it remains a dominant player in the highly competitive telecom landscape.