We came across a bullish thesis on AT&T Inc (T) on ValueInvestorsClub by cuyler1903. In this article we will summarize the bulls’ thesis on T. AT&T shares were trading at $16.75 when this thesis was published, vs. closing price of $19.19 on Aug 6.
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AT&T Inc., headquartered in Dallas, Texas, is a prominent player in the telecommunications and technology sector, boasting a diverse portfolio that spans wireless, wireline, and broadband services both domestically and internationally. The company’s Communications segment is a cornerstone of its business, encompassing nationwide wireless service through Mobility, advanced ethernet-based fiber services via Business Wireline, and a range of broadband and traditional voice services under Consumer Wireline. Additionally, AT&T maintains a significant presence in Latin America with a robust LTE network covering over 104 million people in Mexico. A pivotal shift occurred in 2021 when AT&T, in collaboration with TPG Capital, spun off DirecTV into a new entity, retaining a substantial equity interest.
Despite its storied history and a reputation as a “dinosaur” in the tech world, AT&T’s current investment proposition is compelling. The company is strategically focused on modern connectivity solutions, particularly in expanding its 5G and fiber networks. AT&T’s emphasis on fiber technology, which offers superior multi-gigabit speeds and reliability compared to cable internet, is particularly noteworthy. This focus aligns with the increasing demand for high-speed broadband driven by rising data consumption and the need for efficient, high-capacity networks.
One of the key factors driving AT&T’s investment appeal is its significant pricing power. Recent reports indicate that AT&T has increased wireless and internet prices multiple times this year, a move that underscores the company’s strong value proposition and customer loyalty. Such pricing power is a critical indicator of a company’s ability to generate revenue and maintain profitability amidst competitive pressures. Notably, a recent personal observation revealed a substantial 9.8% increase in wireless bills over a two-month period, highlighting the company’s ability to drive revenue through price adjustments.
Another crucial aspect of AT&T’s investment potential is its ongoing deleveraging efforts. Following a period of heavy capital deployment and increased debt, the company has shifted focus towards reducing its debt load and enhancing free cash flow. AT&T’s management has made notable progress, with a reduction in net debt by over $3 billion and a commitment to achieving a 2.5x net debt-to-adjusted EBITDA ratio by mid-2025. This strategic move, coupled with a robust dividend yield of 6.6% and anticipated growth in free cash flow, positions AT&T as an attractive investment opportunity.
In summary, AT&T’s combination of a low valuation multiple, effective pricing power, competitive fiber internet offerings, and strategic balance sheet improvements make its stock a compelling investment. If the company continues to execute on its growth strategies and the market recognizes its undervaluation, AT&T’s stock could experience substantial gains. As the telecommunications landscape evolves, AT&T’s strengths in connectivity and financial discipline position it well for future success.
AT&T is not on our list of the 31 Most Popular Stocks Among Hedge Funds. As per our database, 71 hedge fund portfolios held AT&T at the end of the first quarter which was 67 in the previous quarter. While we acknowledge the potential of AT&T as an investment, our conviction lies in the belief that AI stocks hold greater promise for delivering higher returns, and doing so within a shorter timeframe. If you are looking for an AI stock that is as promising as AT&T but that trades at less than 5 times its earnings, check out our report about the cheapest AI stock.
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Disclosure: None. This article is originally published at Insider Monkey.
