Global Payments has announced a promising financial outlook, reinforcing its commitment to shareholder returns. The company's adjusted earnings per share saw a notable 12% increase year-over-year, reaching $3.18, which surpassed analyst expectations. While revenue for the quarter was $2.320 billion, slightly below the anticipated $2.325 billion, adjusted net revenues still demonstrated a 1% rise year-over-year, or a 6% increase when considering constant currency and excluding dispositions. Furthermore, the adjusted operating margin expanded by 80 basis points, achieving an impressive 44.7% for the quarter. These results were bolstered by the strategic acquisition of Worldpay and the divestiture of Issuer Solutions, which has repositioned Global Payments as a premier pure-play merchant solutions provider.
In a move designed to further reward its investors, the Board of Directors has approved a substantial $2.5 billion share repurchase program, initiating with a $550 million accelerated share repurchase plan. The company anticipates distributing over $2 billion to shareholders throughout 2026, combining these repurchases with dividends, including a 25 cents per share dividend payable on March 30, 2026. CEO Cameron Bready highlighted the success of the Genius platform, launched in the second quarter of 2025, noting encouraging commercial traction. Bready reaffirmed the company's projection to return $7.5 billion in capital to shareholders by the end of 2027, aligning with targets set at the 2024 investor conference.
Looking ahead to 2026, Global Payments projects adjusted EPS to be between $13.80 and $14.00, exceeding the analyst consensus of $13.64. The company forecasts revenue of approximately $9.781 billion, a modest deviation from Wall Street's $9.870 billion estimate. Adjusted net revenue growth is expected to be around 5% (excluding dispositions) in constant currencies, with an anticipated adjusted operating margin expansion of approximately 150 basis points. These forward-looking statements underscore a confident strategic direction and a focus on continued financial health and market leadership.
The trajectory of a company's financial performance often reflects its ability to adapt and innovate in a dynamic market. By focusing on strategic acquisitions and divestitures, along with a clear commitment to shareholder value, Global Payments exemplifies a forward-thinking approach. This proactive management not only ensures robust financial health but also fosters sustained growth, contributing positively to the broader economic landscape and inspiring confidence in strategic corporate governance.