At&T Stock Price, News & Analysis

On March 12, 2021, AT&T outlined its long-term 5G strategy during its Analyst & Investor Day. The company plans to enhance its 5G network, which now covers 230 million people in 14,000 cities, by investing over $105 billion in the U.S. between 2016 and 2020. Key initiatives include expanding 5G connectivity in sports venues, retail locations, airports, and educational institutions. AT&T's unique assets aim to create secure experiences for various sectors, including healthcare and gaming, while maintaining a strong focus on public safety and security.

AT&T (NYSE:T) has updated its strategic and financial outlook, announcing plans to reach 120-150 million HBO Max/HBO subscribers by 2025, an increase from prior estimates. The company aims to expand its fiber footprint by adding 3 million locations in 2021 and will begin deploying C-band spectrum with an investment of $6-8 billion. AT&T maintains a 3.0x net debt-to-EBITDA ratio target by year-end 2021 and expects stable adjusted EPS for 2021, with $26 billion in free cash flow. The company also plans to launch an AVOD version of HBO Max by June.

AT&T is enhancing its nationwide business-focused broadband network by introducing fixed 5G wireless solutions. Effective April, the company will offer new routers from Sierra Wireless and Cradlepoint, aimed at improving business connectivity options. This development supports various business needs, including primary connections and remote work solutions, with no overage charges. The enhanced network, connecting over 2.5 million business locations, enhances productivity and reliability for organizations, crucial during the ongoing global shift towards remote working.

AT&T is expanding its Managed Security Services by teaming up with Fortinet to offer the first global managed Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) solution. This innovation integrates software-defined wide-area network (SD-WAN) capabilities with network security functions, promoting enhanced security, improved network performance, and reduced operational costs. The solution is available immediately, with planned updates throughout 2021. AT&T's experience as a leading SD-WAN provider allows it to address the evolving cybersecurity needs of organizations facing a distributed workforce.

John Stephens, CFO of AT&T (NYSE:T), spoke at the Deutsche Bank Media, Internet & Telecom Conference, outlining strategies for growth in mobility, fiber, and video services. He highlighted a projected 2% growth in wireless service revenue for 2021, driven by customer acquisitions and improved churn rates. AT&T plans to expand its fiber footprint by 3 million locations this year. The agreement with TPG to create a new entity, DIRECTV, aims to enhance video operations. The company anticipates saving $300 million quarterly in depreciation costs following the sale of its video business.

On March 5, 2021, AT&T responded to a civil suit from the SEC targeting three mid-level investor relations employees regarding conversations with analysts from 2016. The SEC's investigation, lasting four years, found no evidence of material nonpublic information being disclosed. AT&T argues that discussions about the phase-out of smartphone subsidies were publicly known and had no significant impact on earnings. The company maintains its commitment to ethical practices and looks forward to proving the allegations are unfounded.

AT&T will host its Analyst & Investor Day on March 12, 2021, at 9 a.m. CT. The event will focus on updates regarding the company's business strategy and capital allocation plans. Interested parties can access the live webcast via the AT&T Investor Relations website. Following the event, a replay and transcript will be available for those unable to attend live. AT&T, a major player in telecommunications and media, serves over 225 million monthly subscriptions and offers services to both consumers and businesses.

AT&T Inc. (NYSE:T) will host a webcast featuring John Stephens, the company's CFO, at the Deutsche Bank Media, Internet & Telecom Conference on March 8, 2021, starting at 10 a.m. ET. The presentation will be available for live viewing and replay on the AT&T Investor Relations website. Investors are advised to log in a few minutes early to accommodate any schedule changes during the conference.

This initiative highlights AT&T's commitment to investor engagement and transparency in its telecommunications and media operations.

AT&T and TPG Capital have finalized an agreement to create a new company named New DIRECTV, which will manage AT&T's U.S. video services including DIRECTV, AT&T TV, and U-verse. The new entity is valued at $16.25 billion, with AT&T retaining 70% ownership. Upon completion, expected in the second half of 2021, AT&T will receive $7.8 billion, primarily for debt reduction. TPG will invest $1.8 billion, while New DIRECTV plans to improve video services amid evolving customer habits. This restructuring aims to enhance focus and profitability in the competitive video market.