iHeartMedia Posts $220M Q4 EBITDA, Targets $100M in 2026 Cost Cuts
iHeartMedia posted fourth-quarter adjusted EBITDA of $220 million, down from $246 million in Q4 2024 but within its $200 million-$240 million guidance range. The company plans $100 million in 2026 cost savings—distributing $12.5 million in Q1 and $28 million each subsequent quarter—as it factors a strong non-presidential cycle political ad market into its $800 million EBITDA guidance.
1. Q4 2025 Financial Results
iHeartMedia reported fourth-quarter adjusted EBITDA of $220 million, down from $246 million in the year-earlier period but within its guidance range of $200 million to $240 million. The absence of political advertising revenue was the primary driver of the year-over-year decline.
2. 2026 Cost Savings Plan
The company plans to implement $100 million in net cost savings for 2026, following $150 million achieved in 2025. Savings will be phased with $12.5 million in Q1 and approximately $28 million in each subsequent quarter to optimize operating efficiency.
3. 2026 Guidance and Digital Growth Drivers
Full-year EBITDA guidance is set at $800 million, incorporating expectations for a strong non-presidential cycle political ad market. iHeartMedia is also expanding programmatic partnerships with DSP platforms and pursuing video podcasting opportunities to drive digital revenue and margin improvements.