10-QPeriod: Q1 FY2021

VERIZON COMMUNICATIONS INC Quarterly Report for Q1 Ended Mar 31, 2021

Filed April 27, 2021For Securities:VZ

Summary

Verizon Communications Inc. reported solid financial results for the first quarter of 2021, demonstrating revenue growth and improved profitability compared to the same period in the previous year. Total operating revenues increased by 4.0% year-over-year, driven by robust performance in the Consumer segment, which saw a 4.7% increase in revenues. The Business segment also contributed with a 1.3% revenue increase. Net income rose significantly by 25.4%, reflecting effective cost management and revenue growth. Key to this performance was the substantial increase in wireless equipment revenues and continued strength in service revenues across both segments. The company also managed its operating expenses effectively, with a notable decrease in selling, general, and administrative expenses, contributing to a higher operating income. Verizon's strategic investments in network expansion, particularly in 5G technology, are positioning it for future growth, although significant capital expenditures are expected to continue. The company also made a substantial investment in C-Band spectrum during the quarter, which will be a key driver for its 5G strategy.

Financial Statements
Beta
Revenue$32.87B
SG&A Expenses$7.40B
Operating Expenses$25.10B
Operating Income$7.77B
Interest Expense$1.10B
Net Income$5.25B
EPS (Basic)$1.27
EPS (Diluted)$1.27
Shares Outstanding (Basic)4.14B
Shares Outstanding (Diluted)4.14B

Key Highlights

  • 1Total Operating Revenues increased by 4.0% to $32.9 billion, up from $31.6 billion in Q1 2020.
  • 2Net Income attributable to Verizon increased by 25.4% to $5.2 billion, or $1.27 per diluted share, from $4.2 billion, or $1.00 per diluted share, in Q1 2020.
  • 3Consumer segment revenue grew by 4.7% to $22.8 billion, driven by increases in both service and wireless equipment revenues.
  • 4Significant investment in C-Band spectrum was made in Q1 2021, totaling $44.6 billion, as part of the company's 5G strategy.
  • 5Operating expenses were well-managed, with Selling, General, and Administrative expenses decreasing by 13.8% due to lower credit loss provisions and the absence of a prior year spectrum loss.
  • 6Free Cash Flow increased by 46.5% to $5.2 billion, up from $3.5 billion in Q1 2020, due to increased operating cash flows and lower capital expenditures.
  • 7Verizon successfully raised significant debt during the quarter, issuing $30.9 billion in principal amount of notes across various currencies to support its strategic initiatives and capital structure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Verizon's total operating revenues increased by 4.0% to $32.9 billion in the first quarter of 2021, compared to $31.6 billion in the first quarter of 2020. This growth was primarily driven by the Consumer segment, which saw a 4.7% increase in revenues, and the Business segment, which reported a 1.3% increase.

Net income attributable to Verizon increased by 25.4% to $5.2 billion in Q1 2021. This improvement was supported by revenue growth, particularly in wireless equipment, and a significant reduction in operating expenses, especially Selling, General, and Administrative expenses, which benefited from lower credit loss provisions and the absence of a large spectrum loss that occurred in the prior year. Effective cost management also contributed to the profitability increase.

Verizon made a substantial investment of $44.6 billion in C-Band spectrum licenses during the first quarter of 2021. This acquisition is a critical component of Verizon's strategy to expand its 5G Ultra Wideband network capabilities, positioning the company to offer enhanced services and maintain its competitive edge in the evolving telecommunications landscape.

Capital expenditures decreased by 14.8% to $4.5 billion in Q1 2021 compared to Q1 2020, primarily due to the timing of investments. This, combined with an increase in net cash provided by operating activities, led to a significant increase in Free Cash Flow, which rose by 46.5% to $5.2 billion. This indicates improved operational cash generation and efficient capital deployment.