Barclays and Bernstein Highlight Challenges for Verizon (VZ)

Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE:VZ) is one of the 12 Best 5G Stocks to Invest in According to Hedge Funds. On January 22, Barclays restarted its coverage on Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE:VZ) with an Equalweight rating and a price target of $43. The firm noted that the company has limited options to improve unit growth because of dividend commitments, the need for cash to support restructuring and integration, a high-priced back book, and the need to lower debt.

According to Barclays, Verizon Communications Inc.’s (NYSE:VZ) volume turnaround is expected to be modest. Despite significant cost-cutting efforts over a short period, the firm believes the company is likely to remain the slowest-growing in the industry over the next 1 to 2 years.

Earlier, on January 15, Bernstein reduced its price target on Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE:VZ) from $46 to $44 and kept its Market Perform rating. Bernstein noted that the telecom industry is entering a new phase of competition. According to the research firm, this intense competitive environment is expected to persist in 2026, with few signs of improvement based on recent strategic moves in the industry.

Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE:VZ) is an American technology and telecommunications company that provides network connectivity, entertainment, and security solutions.

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Disclosure: None. This article is originally published at Insider Monkey.