Nasdaq (NDAQ) Q1 2026 growth with stronger earnings and higher dividend
Rhea-AI Filing Summary
Nasdaq, Inc. reported a strong first quarter of 2026 with broad-based growth and a higher dividend. Revenues less transaction-based expenses, or net revenue, reached $1.407 billion, up 14% year over year. Solutions revenue was $1.082 billion, also up 14%, while annualized recurring revenue rose to $3.188 billion, a 13% increase.
GAAP operating income grew to $657 million, up 20%, and non-GAAP operating income climbed 17% to $799 million. GAAP diluted EPS increased to $0.91, up 33%, and non-GAAP diluted EPS rose to $0.96, up 22%. Nasdaq returned over $700 million to shareholders in the quarter, including nearly $550 million of share repurchases, and declared a higher regular quarterly dividend of $0.31 per share, up from $0.27 a year earlier.
Positive
- Strong double-digit growth: Net revenue rose 14% to $1.407 billion, non-GAAP operating income increased 17% to $799 million, and non-GAAP diluted EPS grew 22% to $0.96, indicating meaningful operating leverage.
- Dividend increase and capital returns: The quarterly dividend was raised to $0.31 per share, and the company returned over $700 million to shareholders, including nearly $550 million of share repurchases, while also reducing leverage.
Negative
- None.
Insights
Nasdaq posts broad-based double-digit growth and raises its dividend.
Nasdaq delivered solid Q1 2026 results, with revenues less transaction-based expenses rising 14% to $1.407 billion and solutions revenue up 14% to $1.082 billion. Recurring revenue remained robust, with ARR increasing 13% to $3.188 billion, underscoring the strength of its subscription-like businesses.
Profitability improved meaningfully. GAAP operating income rose 20% to $657 million, while non-GAAP operating income grew 17% to $799 million. GAAP diluted EPS advanced to $0.91, up 33%, and non-GAAP diluted EPS reached $0.96, up 22%, reflecting operating leverage despite higher operating expenses.
Capital returns were sizeable: management states Nasdaq returned over $700 million to shareholders in the quarter, including nearly $550 million of share repurchases, while reducing leverage. The board also increased the regular quarterly dividend to $0.31 per share, payable on June 26, 2026, signaling confidence in cash flow durability.