Gold prices steady ahead of Fed decision; weekly weakness noted
In a recent 8-K filing with the SEC, Verizon Communications Inc (NYSE:VZ). (market capitalization: $186.2 billion) disclosed the approval of a substantial increase in the annual long-term incentive for its Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Hans Vestberg. The incentive, which was previously set at $18 million, has been raised to $25 million for the year 2025. The adjustment was made following a recommendation by Verizon’s Human Resources Committee and approval by the Board of Directors on Monday. According to InvestingPro data, Verizon maintains a GOOD financial health score, suggesting robust corporate governance practices.
This revision in Vestberg’s compensation package aligns with the company’s strategic goals and reflects the competitive market for executive talent. The long-term incentive is structured with 67% in performance stock units (PSUs) and 33% in restricted stock units (RSUs), maintaining the same proportion as in prior years. The company has demonstrated strong shareholder focus, maintaining dividend payments for 42 consecutive years with a current yield of 6.13%.
Additionally, Verizon has made changes to its financial reporting practices. Starting in the first quarter of 2025, the company has reclassified device protection and insurance-related plan revenues, previously reported under Other revenue, to Wireless service revenue. Furthermore, Verizon will no longer include the effects of its second number offering when calculating key wireless retail postpaid phone metrics, such as net additions and churn. Trading at a P/E ratio of 10.68, Verizon shows attractive valuations relative to its near-term earnings growth potential. For deeper insights into Verizon’s financial metrics and growth prospects, access the comprehensive Pro Research Report available on InvestingPro.
These updates to Verizon’s financial reporting are intended to provide greater clarity and consistency for investors. The company has included unaudited historical financial and operating information reflecting these changes in Exhibit 99.1 of the filing.
The information contained in this report is based on the company’s SEC filing and is furnished for investor convenience. It has not been incorporated by reference into any of Verizon’s filings under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 or the Securities Act of 1933, except as expressly referenced in such filings.
In other recent news, Verizon Communications announced a strategic partnership with Banco Santander (BME:SAN) to introduce the Verizon + Openbank Savings account, offering Verizon customers a high-yield savings option with significant annual savings potential. This collaboration aims to expand Santander’s presence in the U.S. and enhance Verizon’s financial service offerings. Meanwhile, Citi analysts maintained their Buy rating for Verizon, setting a $49 price target, citing expectations of robust financial results despite challenges in customer turnover and new subscriptions. The analysts highlighted Verizon’s potential for solid free cash flow and an attractive dividend yield as key factors in their positive outlook.
Additionally, Verizon is under pressure from U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy to expedite upgrades to the FAA’s telecommunications network, with a $2.4 billion contract possibly at risk. The scrutiny follows reports of the FAA testing alternatives, raising questions about Verizon’s ability to meet contract obligations. Verizon also signaled a slight increase in customer churn for the first quarter of 2025, attributed to recent pricing actions, while maintaining confidence in meeting its full-year financial guidance. The company expects its postpaid phone gross additions to remain flat or slightly down from the previous year.
Lastly, Verizon’s Chief Revenue Officer, Frank Boulben, noted challenges in the first quarter due to intensified competition, with a focus on adjusting promotional activities to manage fluctuating demand. The company has also observed a shift in consumer behavior regarding device financing, impacting its upgrade cycle. Investors are closely monitoring Verizon’s strategic responses as it navigates these competitive pressures and changing market dynamics.
This article was generated with the support of AI and reviewed by an editor. For more information see our T&C.