AT&T (NYSE:T) has reported its second-quarter earnings, matching expectations with an adjusted EPS of $0.57.
However, the company's revenue slightly missed the mark at $29.8 billion against the consensus estimate of $29.98 billion.
Despite the revenue shortfall, the telecommunications giant's stock rose by over 4%, indicating investor confidence in the company's consistent performance and future outlook.
The company's second-quarter revenue saw a marginal decline of 0.4% compared to the same period last year, primarily due to reduced Business Wireline service revenues and a dip in Mobility equipment revenues driven by lower sales volumes.
This was partially offset by a 3.4% increase in Mobility service revenues and a 7.0% rise in Consumer Wireline revenues, marking a solid YoY growth.
AT&T's CEO, John Stankey, highlighted the company's investment-led strategy, which has resulted in a robust customer base for its 5G and fiber services.
"Our solid performance this quarter demonstrates the durable benefits of our investment-led strategy," said Stankey. He emphasized the company's leading position in providing converged connectivity solutions, with nearly 40% of AT&T Fiber households also opting for AT&T wireless service.
Looking ahead, AT&T has reaffirmed its full-year 2024 guidance, projecting wireless service revenue growth in the 3% range and broadband revenue growth of over 7%.
The company anticipates adjusted EBITDA growth in the 3% range, with capital investment expected to be between $21 billion and $22 billion.
Free cash flow is forecasted to be in the $17 billion to $18 billion range, and adjusted EPS is projected to be between $2.15 and $2.25. This guidance aligns closely with the consensus of $2.22 for adjusted EPS.
The company's confidence extends into 2025, with expectations of delivering growth in adjusted EPS. AT&T also remains on track to achieve a net debt-to-adjusted EBITDA ratio in the 2.5x range in the first half of 2025 and plans to expand its fiber network to over 30 million consumer and business locations by the end of that year.