Frontier Communications downgraded by Wolfe Research By Investing.com

Wolfe Research adjusted its rating for shares of Frontier Communications (OTC:) (NASDAQ:FYBR), moving from Outperform to Peer Perform. The firm set a Fair Value range for the stock between $38 and $39 per share, closely aligning with the anticipated takeout value of $38.50.

The downgrade comes ahead of the expected closure of Verizon’s acquisition of Frontier, which is projected to finalize approximately 18 months from the announcement date on September 4, 2024. Wolfe Research indicated that the risk of regulatory pushback is minimal. This assessment is based on the observation that the networks of Frontier and Verizon do not have overlapping service areas and the merger would not result in an excessive number of subscribers on a national scale.

The analyst’s comments suggest confidence in the smooth progression of the acquisition process, with the combined operations of Frontier and Verizon expected to avoid antitrust concerns due to the lack of network overlap. This factor is seen as a positive element in the regulatory review of the deal.

The Fair Value range provided by Wolfe Research reflects the analyst’s expectation of the stock’s worth in the context of the acquisition. The midpoint of the valuation, $38.50, matches the anticipated acquisition price, offering a benchmark for investors to consider in relation to the current trading price of Frontier Communications shares.

Investors and market watchers will likely monitor Frontier Communications’ stock performance and the progression of the acquisition by Verizon, keeping an eye on any regulatory developments that may arise as the deal approaches its expected completion date.

Verizon Communications (NYSE:) has been the center of numerous financial updates. Citi has revised its price target for Verizon to $49.00, maintaining a Buy rating based on strong third-quarter financial projections. Additionally, the company’s Q2 2024 financial report showed a 3.5% year-over-year increase in wireless service revenue, contributing to a total consolidated revenue of $32.8 billion. The adjusted EBITDA for the same quarter rose to $12.3 billion, marking a 2.8% increase from the previous year.

RBC Capital also raised its price target for Verizon, citing anticipated cost savings from the company’s employee separation program and a decrease in handset upgrades as key drivers behind the improved EBITDA outlook. Another significant development is Verizon’s planned merger with Frontier Communications Parent, Inc., which is subject to regulatory and shareholder approvals. Goldman Sachs maintained its Buy rating on the stock, showing confidence in the proposed Frontier transaction.

Verizon also disclosed a severance charge of between $1.7 billion and $1.9 billion due to a voluntary separation program. The company’s transformation initiatives aim to streamline operations and focus on core business areas, which are expected to improve its financial health and competitive position. These are the recent developments in Verizon’s operations and financial performance.

InvestingPro Insights

As Verizon (NYSE:VZ) moves forward with its acquisition of Frontier Communications, it’s worth examining Verizon’s financial health and market position. According to InvestingPro data, Verizon boasts a substantial market capitalization of $188.97 billion, underlining its significant presence in the telecommunications industry. The company’s P/E ratio of 11.06 (adjusted for the last twelve months as of Q2 2024) suggests that it may be undervalued compared to its peers.

Verizon’s strong dividend profile is particularly noteworthy in the context of this acquisition. InvestingPro Tips highlight that Verizon has raised its dividend for 20 consecutive years and currently offers a dividend yield of 6.04%. This consistent dividend growth could be attractive to Frontier Communications shareholders who may become Verizon shareholders post-acquisition.

Additionally, Verizon’s revenue for the last twelve months as of Q2 2024 stands at $134.24 billion, with an EBITDA of $48.11 billion for the same period. These figures demonstrate Verizon’s robust financial position, which could support the integration of Frontier Communications’ operations.

InvestingPro Tips also indicate that Verizon is a prominent player in the Diversified Telecommunication Services industry and that analysts predict the company will be profitable this year. These factors, combined with Verizon’s track record of maintaining dividend payments for 41 consecutive years, suggest a stable outlook for the company as it pursues this strategic acquisition.

For investors seeking a more comprehensive analysis, InvestingPro offers 8 additional tips for Verizon, providing deeper insights into the company’s financial health and market position.

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