CoreCivic (NYSE: CXW) delivers strong 2025 results and boosts 2026 earnings guidance
Rhea-AI Filing Summary
CoreCivic, Inc. reported strong growth for Q4 and full year 2025, driven by facility activations and higher occupancy. Q4 2025 revenue was $604.0 million, up 26% year over year, with net income of $26.5 million, up 38%, and diluted EPS of $0.26, up 53%.
For full year 2025, revenue reached $2.2 billion, up 13%, while net income rose to $116.5 million, up 69%, and diluted EPS was $1.08, up 74%. Adjusted EBITDA was $365.6 million, up 11%, and Normalized FFO per diluted share was $2.05, up 21%.
The company resumed and expanded operations at several facilities, more than doubled Q4 revenue from ICE to $244.7 million, and continued an aggressive share repurchase program, buying 11.2 million shares in 2025. For 2026, CoreCivic guides to net income of $147.5–$157.5 million, diluted EPS of $1.49–$1.59, FFO per diluted share of $2.54–$2.64, and EBITDA of $437.0–$445.0 million.
Positive
- Strong 2025 growth and higher 2026 outlook: 2025 revenue rose 13% to $2.2 billion and net income increased 69% to $116.5 million, while 2026 guidance calls for net income of $147.5–$157.5 million and EBITDA of $437.0–$445.0 million, indicating continued earnings expansion.
Negative
- None.
Insights
CoreCivic posts strong 2025 growth, boosts guidance and balance sheet capacity.
CoreCivic delivered substantial operating momentum. Q4 2025 revenue rose to $604.0 million, up 26%, with net income of $26.5 million up 38%. Full-year revenue reached $2.2 billion, up 13%, and net income climbed 69% to $116.5 million, reflecting higher occupancy and key facility reactivations.
Profitability metrics strengthened: full-year diluted EPS increased 74% to $1.08, Adjusted EBITDA rose 11% to $365.6 million, and Normalized FFO per diluted share grew 21% to $2.05. Leverage was 2.8x net debt to Adjusted EBITDA for the trailing twelve months, while an amended credit facility expanded revolving capacity from $275.0 million to $575.0 million.
Capital returns were meaningful: in 2025 the company repurchased 11.2 million shares for $218.4 million, and since program inception has bought 25.7 million shares for $399.5 million. For 2026, guidance implies further earnings and FFO growth, with net income of $147.5–$157.5 million and EBITDA of $437.0–$445.0 million, while planned capital spending supports ongoing facility activations and maintenance.