Verizon Comms Stock Price, News & Analysis

Verizon Media's Yahoo launched the "Make Space for Black Voices" campaign for Black History Month, featuring new programming aimed at amplifying Black communities. The initiative includes a special logo by artist Janel Young, a video series, and a livestream event with industry leaders. Emphasizing e-commerce, the campaign will promote Black-owned businesses through virtual shops and dedicated content. The campaign builds on previous efforts, including the Black Lives Matter content hub, as Verizon Media reinforces its commitment to diversity and inclusion.

Verizon has announced a significant investment of over $80 million to enhance 5G infrastructure in Tampa, particularly at Raymond James Stadium, ahead of Super Bowl LV. This includes the launch of the 5G SuperStadium in the NFL app, providing fans with immersive viewing experiences both in-stadium and at home. Additionally, Verizon is debuting a virtual 5G Stadium in Fortnite Creative, the largest activation ever in the platform. The company is also committed to supporting small businesses with a concert event and a $10 million donation as part of its long-term initiative to aid one million small businesses by 2030.

Verizon is committing to support small businesses with a multi-year initiative to uplift one million businesses by 2030. This includes a $10 million investment through the Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC) to support businesses in underserved areas. Verizon will host the Big Concert for Small Business on February 7, featuring various artists, to raise funds and awareness. The program will also offer training and 5G connectivity to aid small businesses in their digital transformation. These efforts are part of Verizon's broader Citizen Verizon plan aimed at social and economic advancement.

Verizon has announced six new Renewable Energy Purchase Agreements (REPAs), increasing its total to 13 agreements with nearly 1.7 gigawatts (GW) of projected renewable energy capacity. These agreements include virtual power purchase agreements designed to finance six new solar facilities. The recent REPAs involve 525 MW from Invenergy, 152.5 MW from Lightsource bp, 92.5 MW from EDF Renewables, and 75 MW from NextEra Energy. Verizon aims for carbon neutrality by 2035 and has committed to additional on-site green energy installation by 2025.

Verizon Business released the 'Verizon 5G Business Report', revealing insights about the impact of 5G technology on businesses. Key findings include that 69% of decision-makers believe 5G will mitigate COVID-19's adverse effects, with 48% planning to provide 5G-enabled devices soon. Furthermore, 76% view mobile edge computing as crucial, and 80% anticipate 5G will foster new opportunities. These findings reflect a strong confidence in 5G adoption across industries, including sports, healthcare, and retail.

JumpStart has launched a new initiative, Access Tech, funded by Verizon, to connect Cleveland residents with digital education and tools necessary for success in the digital economy. This program aims to equip participants with foundational digital skills, career development, and business growth training, while providing equipment like laptops and internet access to those in need. Selected for Verizon's nationwide initiative, Cleveland joins other cities including Portland and Pittsburgh to address community-specific digital access challenges.

Verizon has achieved a significant milestone by being named the most awarded wireless company for network quality by J.D. Power for 26 consecutive testing periods. This includes a record of 13 years in a row as the leader in the Wireless Network Quality Study. The recognition reflects consumer satisfaction, as over 33,000 wireless customers participated in the national survey. Verizon topped all six U.S. regions, reinforcing its position as a leader in technology and communications with revenues of $131.9 billion in 2019.

Verizon Communications (VZ) reported a 4Q 2020 EPS of $1.11, down from $1.23 in 4Q 2019, with an adjusted EPS of $1.21 compared to $1.13 last year. The operating revenue declined 0.2% year-over-year to $34.7 billion, while net income decreased by 9.6% to $4.7 billion. Despite these challenges, wireless service revenue grew by 2.2%, driven by 703,000 retail postpaid net additions. For full-year 2020, EPS was $4.30, down from $4.65 in 2019, but free cash flow increased by 32.4% to $23.6 billion. Looking forward, Verizon anticipates a revenue growth of at least 2% for 2021.