Verizon jumps as Q1 profit beats, guidance rises, and phone adds turn positive
VZ•Verizon shares are rising after the company’s April 27, 2026 Q1 results showed adjusted EPS of $1.28 and management lifted 2026 adjusted EPS growth guidance to 5%–6%. Investors also reacted to a rare subscriber turnaround, with 55,000 postpaid phone net adds in Q1 (first positive Q1 since 2013) and $2.5 billion of Q1 share repurchases.
1. What’s moving the stock today
Verizon is rallying after its first-quarter 2026 update highlighted stronger profitability and a more constructive full-year outlook. The company raised its 2026 adjusted EPS growth target to 5%–6% (up from 4%–5%) and pointed to momentum in customer metrics, including positive postpaid phone net adds in the first quarter—an outcome it hadn’t delivered since 2013. (verizon.com)
2. The key numbers investors are reacting to
In Q1 2026, Verizon reported adjusted EPS of $1.28 and delivered 55,000 postpaid phone net additions, a year-over-year swing of more than 340,000. Management also said it completed $2.5 billion of share repurchases in the quarter and remains on track for at least $3.0 billion of buybacks for the full year. (verizon.com)
3. Why this matters from here
The combination of higher earnings guidance, an unusual Q1 subscriber inflection, and active capital returns is steering investors toward a “turnaround gaining traction” narrative. The market is also treating the raised outlook and buyback pace as a signal that Verizon sees enough operating momentum and cash generation to support shareholder returns while pursuing its 2026 targets. (verizon.com)
