Verizon's Dividend Increase: A Boon for Income Investors

Verizon Communications Inc. (VZ) recently announced a quarterly dividend increase of 1.25 cents per share, marking the 18th consecutive year of dividend growth. This news is particularly appealing to income investors, as Verizon's dividend yield currently stands at an attractive 6.5%. This article explores the key financial metrics that support Verizon's ability to sustain its high dividend yield in the long term, the impact of its recent acquisition of Frontier Communications on dividend sustainability, and the potential impact on Verizon's stock price and market valuation.

Verizon's strong financial performance is underpinned by its focus on three key pillars: wireless service revenue growth, adjusted EBITDA expansion, and free cash flow generation. These strategic priorities, combined with disciplined financial management and a commitment to serving customers, have positioned Verizon well for future growth. The company's ability to generate substantial free cash flow has enabled it to consistently increase its dividend and maintain a strong balance sheet.


Verizon's recent acquisition of Frontier Communications is expected to enhance its fiber network and subscriber base. However, the $20 billion all-cash acquisition will also increase Verizon's debt levels, potentially impacting its ability to continue growing its dividend. Credit rating agencies S&P Global and Fitch expect Verizon to quickly de-lever its balance sheet following the Frontier deal, with both agencies anticipating that the company will achieve its targeted leverage ratio for share repurchases in the coming years.


The Frontier acquisition is expected to have a meaningful near-term impact on Verizon's balance sheet, but the company has room to absorb the hit. Verizon's leverage level will rise to around 3.0x after closing the transaction, still comfortably below the 3.25x level that would trigger a downgrade in its credit rating. Moreover, Verizon's balance sheet is already stronger than that of rival AT&T, which ended the second quarter with a roughly 2.9x leverage ratio.

Verizon's acquisition of Frontier is expected to be accretive to the company's earnings, driven by at least $500 million in cost synergies over the first three years as Verizon integrates Frontier. This deal will help Verizon grow its subscriber base from 7 million today to over 10 million homes by 2026, with the potential to reach 25 million homes. The company will still maintain a solid balance sheet, which should enable it to continue delivering its industry-leading dividend.

In conclusion, Verizon's recent dividend increase is a testament to the company's strong financial performance and commitment to returning value to shareholders. While the Frontier acquisition may temporarily elevate Verizon's risk profile, the company's robust balance sheet and expected synergies from the deal should enable it to maintain its high dividend yield in the long term. Income investors should continue to monitor Verizon's progress as it works to integrate Frontier and capitalize on the growing demand for fiber-optic broadband.