AT&T Earnings: Strong subscriber growth in 5G and fiber with improving profitability

T Financial Analysis

Analysis Date: 1/28/2025

Business Model

AT&T generates revenue primarily through wireless service, equipment sales, and wireline services including fiber broadband

Revenue Sources

  • Mobility services (51% of revenue)
  • Equipment sales (22% of revenue)
  • Consumer Wireline (11% of revenue)
  • Business Wireline (14% of revenue)

Revenue Distribution by Channel

  • Direct to consumer and business customers

Income Statement Analysis

  • Operating revenues increased 0.9% YoY driven by Mobility service revenue growth
  • Operating expenses up 0.8% YoY due to higher depreciation from network investments
  • Net income increased 70.7% YoY due to higher operating income and other income

Balance Sheet Analysis

  • Reduced net debt by $8.8B year-over-year to $120.1B
  • Net debt-to-adjusted EBITDA ratio improved to 2.68x from 2.97x
  • On track to reach net debt-to-adjusted EBITDA in 2.5x range by H1 2025

Cash Flow Analysis

  • Operating cash flow increased $0.5B YoY to $11.9B
  • Free cash flow of $4.8B, down YoY due to higher capital expenditures
  • Full year 2024 free cash flow of $17.6B, up $0.9B YoY

Capital Allocation

AT&T maintains focus on network investments with capital investment of $22.1B in 2024. The company reduced net debt by $8.8B YoY and plans to begin share repurchases in H2 2025 under $10B authorization while maintaining dividend payments. Expected to close DIRECTV/TPG transaction in mid-2025.

Management Commentary

Strong Q4 results showcase momentum in gaining profitable 5G and fiber subscribers

Met all 2024 consolidated financial guidance

On track to reach net debt-to-adjusted EBITDA target in H1 2025

Accelerated decline in legacy Business Wireline services

Overall Sentiment: Positive with strong execution on strategic priorities and financial targets

Recommendation

Rating: Buy

Reason for Rating: Strong execution, improving balance sheet, and sustainable growth in core businesses

Disclaimer: This analysis is based on company filings and public information. It is for informational purposes only and not financial advice. Past performance does not guarantee future results.

Generated on: 1/28/2025, 3:52:02 AM