Vodafone Group (NASDAQ:VOD) Bolsa

Vodafone Group

Vodafone operates mobile and fixed-line networks and businesses in more than 20 countries. Its largest market is Germany, where it is the second mobile operator after Deutsche Telekom and owns a cable network after acquiring Kabel Deutschland in 2013 and Liberty Global Germany in 2019. In the UK it acts as a mobile operator and is attempting a merger with CK Hutchison. In 2024 Vodafone divested its Spanish and Italian divisions, given their low returns on invested capital.

Vodafone España crece un 1,1 % en ingresos gracias a IoT y fibra óptica. Descubre cómo Zegona impulsa su estrategia.

Vodafone España aumenta ingresos: la estrategia de Zegona da resultados

Telefónica y Vodafone unen fuerzas para desplegar fibra óptica en zonas rurales, reduciendo la brecha digital y optimizando recursos.

Telefónica (TEF) y Vodafone (VOD) se alían para llevar fibra óptica a zonas rurales en España

Vodafone Group Plc - American Depositary Shares each representing ten Ordinary Shares

Vodafone Group PLC

VODACOM GROUP LTD ORD by Vodacom Group Ltd.

Vodacom Group Ltd

VODAFONE GRP PLC ORD by Vodafone Group Plc

VODACOM GROUP LTD S/ADR by Vodacom Group Ltd.

Vodka Brands Corp

<ul>
<li>Vodafone Qatar selects Nokia in major network modernization deal to drive expanded 5G coverage, reliability, and services</li>
<li>The deal entails Core modernization, expanded 5G capacity, and enhanced broadband to strengthen network reliability, service offering, and efficiency.</li>
</ul>

News

Vodafone Qatar Partners With Nokia To Transform 5G Network With Cloud-Native Core, Slicing Automation, And AI-Driven Assurance

Tesla Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>) Elon Musk amplified a cost-cutting move by President Donald Trump's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) on Wednesday, stating that the U.S. government may be wasting $100 million a year on inactive phone lines.
What Happened: In a post on X, formerly Twitter, DOGE's official handle revealed that an internal audit found 198 out of 1,048 phone lines at the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) were either unused or duplicated — roughly 19% of the total.
DOGE said canceling the lines took one hour and would save around $100,000 annually.
"Since OPM is ~0.1% of the federal government, this suggests that ~$100M/yr is wasted on unused lines," the agency wrote.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/media/25/05/45534314/elon-musk-just-got-grilled-on-doge-spending-hits-back-with-were-not-kings-here">Elon Musk Just Got Grilled On DOGE Spending, Hits Back With &#8216;We&#8217;re Not Kings Here&#8217;</a>
Musk, who helped lead DOGE's early initiatives but announced <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/05/45381782/elon-musk-vows-to-spend-less-time-in-white-house-doge-office-investors-warn-the-damage-is-done-and-teslas-troubles-are-far-from-over">plans to reduce</a> his involvement during <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/25/04/44937440/tesla-q1-misses-estimates-as-tariff-pressures-weigh-on-outlook-lower-cost-evs-still-on-track">Tesla's first-quarter earnings call</a>, reposted the update and added:
"Government is wasting about $100 million per year on unused phone lines!"
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"> 
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Government is wasting about $100 million per year on unused phone lines! <a href="https://t.co/UZQflu9jhl">https://t.co/UZQflu9jhl</a>
&mdash; Kekius Maximus (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1925367674894270940?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 22, 2025</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
This latest move by DOGE could impact leading telecom providers that deliver services to both residential and business customers.
Only 2% of U.S. adults use landlines exclusively, according to a 2023 <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/2023/06/23/landline-telephone-holdouts/">report</a> by The Washington Post. In 2019, the Federal Communications Commission scrapped requirements that made it compulsory to run copper wires to each home. The report noted that Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VZ#NYSE">VZ</a>) is the dominant landline player in the Northeast of the country.
Photo courtesy: Joshua Sukoff / Shutterstock.com
Read Next:&nbsp;
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/05/45396297/cathie-wood-dumps-palantir-as-stock-touches-peak-prices-bails-on-soaring-flying-taxi-maker-archer-aviation" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cathie Wood Dumps Palantir As Stock Touches Peak Prices, Bails On Soaring Flying-Taxi Maker Archer Aviation</a></li>
</ul>
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

Government

Tech

ATUS

CHTR

CMCSA

DTEGY

FYBR

LUMN

NTTYY

ORANY

TMUS

TSLA

Elon Musk Wants The US Government To Hang Up The Phone: 'Government Is Wasting About $100 Million Per Year On Unused Phone Lines'

During its <a href="https://benzinga.com/general/space/25/05/45361586/ast-spacemobile-reports-q1-earnings-key-highlights-from-the-quarter">first quarter earnings</a> call on Monday, satellite designer and manufacturer, AST SpaceMobile Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ASTS#NASDAQ">ASTS</a>) gave a concrete revenue guidance for the first time, forecasted between $50 million to $75 million, heavily weighted to the back half of this year.
What Happened: &#8220;We believe we have a revenue opportunity in 2025 in the range of $50 million to $75 million, back-end loaded in the second half of the year,&#8221; CFO Andrew Johnson said during the call. &#8220;Revenue is ramping on plan,&#8221; he said, from satellite deployments, gateway installations, and milestone payments under government and mobile operator agreements.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/05/45367861/ed-yardeni-revises-recession-odds-to-25-after-the-rally-bumps-sp-500-year-end-target-to-6500">Ed Yardeni Slashes Recession Odds To 25% After US Stocks Rally, Lifts S&amp;P 500 Year-End Target To 6,500</a>
The company credited its rapid monetization progress to AST's direct-to-device technology, which allows unmodified mobile devices to connect directly with its growing network of low Earth orbit communication satellites. 
&#8220;We're building the first and only global cellular broadband network in space to operate directly with everyday unmodified mobile devices,&#8221; said President Scott Wisniewski.
&#8220;If you can run a video call, you can support basically any native application that is in your phone,&#8221; said CEO Abel Avellan, highlighting recent video call demonstrations conducted with partners including AT&amp;T Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/T#NYSE">T</a>), Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VZ#NYSE">VZ</a>), Vodafone Group Plc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VOD#NASDAQ">VOD</a>), and Rakuten Group Inc. (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RKUNY#OTC">RKUNY</a>).
Why It Matters: With its direct-to-device technology, AST SpaceMobile is targeting more than <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/content/44930148/ast-spacemobile-5-reasons-to-buy-this-tiny-trailblazer-stock">3 billion potential users</a>, part of the 42% of the global population currently lacking cellular coverage. The company has already signed agreements with 45 mobile network operators worldwide to help extend its reach.
During its recent first quarter results on Monday, the company reported $718,000 in revenue, up 43.60% year-over-year, but this <a href="https://benzinga.com/general/space/25/05/45361586/ast-spacemobile-reports-q1-earnings-key-highlights-from-the-quarter">fell short of consensus</a> estimates by $3.13 million. The company posted a loss of $0.20 per share, which was again $0.01 over analyst estimates.
Price Action: The stock was up 5.43% on Monday, but is down 3.08% after hours following the company&#8217;s first quarter results that fell short of estimates.
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="136" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/13034237/Screenshot-2025-05-13-at-1.12.26-PM-1024x136.png" alt="" class="wp-image-913025" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/13034237/Screenshot-2025-05-13-at-1.12.26-PM-1024x136.png 1024w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/13034237/Screenshot-2025-05-13-at-1.12.26-PM-300x40.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/13034237/Screenshot-2025-05-13-at-1.12.26-PM-768x102.png 768w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/13034237/Screenshot-2025-05-13-at-1.12.26-PM-1536x205.png 1536w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/13034237/Screenshot-2025-05-13-at-1.12.26-PM.png 1606w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>
According to Benzinga Edge Stock Rankings, the stock has a strong Momentum score and a favorable price trend in the short, medium, and long term. For more such insights, sign up for <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/benzinga-edge-2#:~:text=Turn%20Market%20Chaos,when%20markets%20rebound">Benzinga Edge</a>. 
Image Via Shutterstock 
Read More: 
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/05/45367829/pharma-bro-martin-shkreli-rips-into-quantum-stocks-nothing-is-happening-accuses-ionq-d-wave-quantum-and-others-of-revenue-gimmicks">&#8216;Pharma Bro&#8217; Martin Shkreli Rips Into Quantum Stocks: &#8216;Nothing Is Happening&#8217;—Accuses IONQ, D-Wave Quantum, And Others Of Revenue Gimmicks</a></li>
</ul>

Earnings

Equities

SPACE

Markets

ASTS

RKUNY

AST SpaceMobile Sets $75 Million Target For 2025 As CFO Andrew Johnson Says 'Revenue Is Ramping On Plan' Amid Surging Demand For Direct-To-Device Satellite Connectivity

Top Wall Street analysts changed their outlook on these top names. For a complete view of all analyst rating changes, including upgrades, downgrades and initiations, please see our <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings">analyst ratings page</a>.
<ul>
<li>JP Morgan analyst Akhil Dattani downgraded the rating for Vodafone Group Public Limited Company (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VOD#NASDAQ">VOD</a>) from Neutral to Underweight. Vodafone shares closed at $9.58 on Tuesday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/vod/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock</a>.</li>
<li>Barclays analyst Betty Jiang downgraded Chevron Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CVX#NYSE">CVX</a>) from Overweight to Equal-Weight and lowered the price target from $171 to $152. Chevron shares closed at $137.30 on Tuesday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/cvx/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock</a>.</li>
<li>Wolfe Research analyst Darrin Peller downgraded the rating for Global Payments Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GPN#NYSE">GPN</a>) from Outperform to Peer Perform. Global Payments shares closed at $71.39 on Tuesday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/gpn/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock</a>.</li>
<li>Barrington Research analyst James Goss downgraded Clear Channel Outdoor Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CCO#NYSE">CCO</a>) from Outperform to Market Perform. Clear Channel Outdoor shares closed at $0.9788 on Tuesday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/cco/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock</a>.</li>
<li>Citigroup analyst Jon Tower downgraded the rating for Texas Roadhouse, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TXRH#NASDAQ">TXRH</a>) from Buy to Neutral and slashed the price target from $213 to $164. Texas Roadhouse shares closed at $162.95 on Tuesday.  <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/txrh/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock.</a></li>
</ul>
Considering buying VOD stock? Here&#8217;s what analysts think: 
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="580" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/23093533/image-1-25-1024x580.png" alt="" class="wp-image-884245" style="width:574px;height:auto" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/23093533/image-1-25-1024x580.png 1024w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/23093533/image-1-25-300x170.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/23093533/image-1-25-768x435.png 768w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/23093533/image-1-25.png 1116w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>
Read This Next: 
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/44920101/top-2-tech-and-telecom-stocks-you-may-want-to-dump-this-quarter">Top 2 Tech And Telecom Stocks You May Want To Dump This Quarter</a> </li>
</ul>
Photo via Shutterstock

Downgrades

Analyst Ratings

Trading Ideas

TXRH

This Vodafone Analyst Turns Bearish; Here Are Top 5 Downgrades For Wednesday

JP Morgan analyst Akhil Dattani downgrades Vodafone Group (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VOD#NASDAQ">VOD</a>) from Neutral to Underweight.

JP Morgan Downgrades Vodafone Group to Underweight

Bloomberg Reported Liberty Global Has Approached Vodafone For A Potential Acquisition Of Its Stake In Dutch JV VodafoneZiggo

Vodafone Group Plc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VOD#NASDAQ">VOD</a>) shares are moving higher Thursday after the company secured a deal with Nokia to enhance Vodafone Idea's IP <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/03/44297120/nokia-secures-deal-with-vodafone-idea-to-enhance-indias-ip-backhaul-network">backhaul network in India.</a>
What To Know: Nokia announced that Vodafone Idea Limited (VIL), a joint venture between Aditya Birla Group and Vodafone Group, chose the company to modernize and expand its IP backhaul network. 
Under a three-year agreement, Nokia will deploy its IP/MPLS solutions, including the 7750 SR and 7250 IXR series, across multiple telecom regions in India. The goal is to improve network scalability, connectivity and efficiency while phasing out outdated systems.
Vodafone Idea aims to enhance network density by deploying new IP routers, cutting costs, accelerating deployment and improving scalability for future growth. The upgrade will be driven by automation-based planning and migration, which Nokia says will strengthen network capacity and resilience while promoting sustainability with energy-efficient solutions.
Vodafone Idea CTO Jagbir Singh emphasized the partnership aligns with the company's focus on improving customer experience and meeting growing data traffic demands. Nokia&#8217;s Head of Network Infrastructure in India Prashant Malkani highlighted Nokia's IP/MPLS technology would ensure a high-performance network capable of supporting both 4G and 5G requirements.
VOD Price Action: Vodafone shares closed Thursday up 3.71% at $9.50, according to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard">Benzinga Pro.</a>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="537" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/13153936/Screenshot-2025-03-13-at-15.39.03-1024x537.png" alt="" class="wp-image-823828" style="width:565px;height:auto" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/13153936/Screenshot-2025-03-13-at-15.39.03-1024x537.png 1024w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/13153936/Screenshot-2025-03-13-at-15.39.03-300x157.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/13153936/Screenshot-2025-03-13-at-15.39.03-768x403.png 768w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/13153936/Screenshot-2025-03-13-at-15.39.03.png 1526w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></a></figure>
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/economics/macro-economic-events/25/03/44311699/wall-streets-downward-slide-returns-gold-breaks-records-intel-skyrockets-on-ceo-appointment-whats-driving-markets-thursday">Wall Street&#8217;s Downward Slide Returns, Gold Breaks Records, Intel Skyrockets On CEO Appointment: What&#8217;s Driving Markets Thursday?</a></li>
</ul>
Photo: Rafapress on Shutterstock.

Global

Movers

Vodafone Shares Rise After Securing Network Expansion Deal With Nokia: What's Going On?

WIIM

Vodafone shares are trading higher after securing a deal with Nokia to enhance India's IP backhaul network.

On Thursday, the finnish multinational telecommunications company Nokia Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NOK#NYSE">NOK</a>) disclosed that Vodafone Idea Limited (VIL) has chosen the company to enhance and expand its <a target="_blank" href="https://www.nokia.com/about-us/news/releases/2025/03/13/nokia-selected-to-upscale-vodafone-ideas-ip-backhaul-network-for-superior-4g-and-5g-experience/" rel="noreferrer noopener">IP </a>backhaul network. VIL is an Aditya Birla Group and Vodafone Group (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VOD#NASDAQ">VOD</a>) partnership.
As part of a three-year agreement, Nokia will deploy its advanced IP/MPLS solutions across multiple telecom circles in India.
Nokia will supply its latest IP/MPLS solutions, including the 7750 SR and 7250 IXR series, to modernize VIL&#8217;s transport network, enhancing scalability and connectivity for mobile and enterprise services.
VIL aims to boost network density by deploying IP routers while phasing out legacy systems, reducing costs, accelerating deployment, and enabling future scalability.
The upgrade, supported by automation-driven planning and migration, will strengthen network capacity, improve resilience, and promote sustainability with energy-efficient solutions.
Jagbir Singh, CTO at Vodafone Idea Limited, said, &#8220;Partnering with Nokia truly aligns with our vision to enhance customer experience and support the growth of data traffic in the country. The state-of-the-art solutions from Nokia and their proven deployment capabilities will enable us to build a future ready transport network.&#8221;&nbsp;
Prashant Malkani, Head of Network Infrastructure at Nokia India, added, &#8220;Our innovative IP/MPLS portfolio, in-depth understanding of 4G and 5G requirements and trusted performance across all network domains will ensure a high-performance network that delivers exceptional customer experiences for Vodafone Idea.&#8221;
Last week, Nokia and the French media and telecommunications giant&nbsp;Canal+ Telecom joined forces&nbsp;to enhance broadband access in the Caribbean through <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/03/44275297/nokia-powers-canal-telecoms-fiber-network-expansion-in-the-caribbean" rel="noreferrer noopener">a major fiber network expansion</a>.
Investors can gain exposure to the stock via iShares U.S. Digital Infrastructure and Real Estate ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IDGT#NYSE">IDGT</a>) and Defiance Connective Technologies ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SIXG#NASDAQ">SIXG</a>).
Price Action: NOK shares are up 0.19% at $5.21 premarket at the last check Thursday.
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/contracts/25/03/44109945/nokia-proximus-global-team-up-to-advance-5g-and-network-api-innovation" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nokia &amp; Proximus Global Team Up To Advance 5G And Network API Innovation</a></li>
</ul>
Image via Shutterstock.

Large Cap

Contracts

IDGT

SIXG

Nokia Secures Deal with Vodafone Idea To Enhance India's IP Backhaul Network

AST SpaceMobile, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ASTS#NASDAQ">ASTS</a>) shares are trading higher premarket on Monday. The company inked a deal with Vodafone Group Plc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VOD#NASDAQ">VOD</a>) to establish a jointly-owned European <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/25/03/b44069666/vodafone-and-ast-spacemobile-sign-agreement-to-create-european-direct-to-device-satellite-service-" rel="noreferrer noopener">satellite service venture, &#8220;SatCo.&#8221;</a>
SatCo aims to provide full geographic coverage across Europe, enabling consumers and businesses to access secure space-based cellular broadband via their mobile network operators (MNOs). This new entity will cater to MNOs across European markets.
As the exclusive distributor of AST SpaceMobile&#8217;s satellite services in Europe, SatCo will operate under a turnkey model, supported by a European-based network management center leveraging Vodafone&#8217;s engineering expertise.
It will also establish ground stations to connect MNOs to the satellite network in low Earth orbit.
Margherita Della Valle, Vodafone Group CEO, said: &#8220;Vodafone&#8217;s space-based mobile broadband will mean our customers can stay connected, wherever they are. Our new satellite company will be able to offer this pioneering technology to other European mobile operators through a turnkey service that combines Vodafone&#8217;s leading network and engineering with AST SpaceMobile&#8217;s &#8216;antennas in the sky&#8217;.&#8221;
Notably, last month, Vodafone, AST SpaceMobile, and the University of Málaga partnered to establish a space and land mobile broadband research hub, which is expected to open by Summer 2025.
Additionally, AST SpaceMobile is expanding in Spain with a new 5,600-square-meter manufacturing and office facility in Barcelona, boosting production capacity and accelerating satellite and telecom system testing.
Last week, the company was awarded a $43 million contract in support of the U.S. Space Development Agency<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/02/43985177/whats-going-on-with-ast-spacemobile-stock-wednesday" rel="noreferrer noopener"> through&nbsp;its prime contractor</a>.
AST is anticipated to release its 2024 fiscal-year fourth-quarter earnings report <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/earnings" rel="noreferrer noopener">today after the market closes</a>.&nbsp;Analysts estimate a loss of 17 cents per share and revenue of $19.20 million, per data from&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/" rel="noreferrer noopener">Benzinga Pro</a>.
Investors can gain exposure to the ASTS via&nbsp;Procure Space ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UFO#NASDAQ">UFO</a>) and SPDR S&amp;P Telecom ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XTL#NYSE">XTL</a>).
Price Action: ASTS shares are up 7.05% at $29.02 premarket at the last check Monday.
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/market-summary/25/02/44051518/nvidia-tesla-lead-tech-stock-rebound-whats-driving-markets-friday" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nvidia, Tesla Lead Tech Stock Rebound: What&#8217;s Driving Markets Friday?</a></li>
</ul>
Image: Shutterstock/ nmedia.

Mid Cap

AST SpaceMobile Teams Up with Vodafone For Satellite Broadband Service Across Europe

Vodafone And AST SpaceMobile Create Joint Venture For European Direct-To-Device Satellite Service

Shares of consumer goods major Unilever PLC (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UL#NYSE">UL</a>) are trading <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/premarket" rel="noreferrer noopener">lower in premarket</a> on Thursday.
The company announced that it is making solid progress toward <a target="_blank" href="https://www.unilever.com/news/press-and-media/press-releases/2025/improved-performance-led-by-volume-growth-and-gross-margin-expansion/" rel="noreferrer noopener">separating </a>its Ice Cream division, with plans to finish the process by the close of 2025.
Significant steps have been taken in critical areas, such as forming legal entities, creating an independent operating structure, and finalizing the required financial separation documents.
Last year, Unilever said it planned to spin off its Ice Cream division and concentrate on a portfolio of brands that are well-positioned in desirable markets with <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/03/37815586/chilling-changes-unilever-to-separate-iconic-ice-cream-brands-in-strategic-shake-up" rel="noreferrer noopener">complementary business models</a>.
The Ice Cream unit includes notable global ice cream brands, such as Wall&#8217;s, Magnum, and Ben &amp; Jerry&#8217;s.
Jean-Francois van Boxmeer has been named Chair Designate for the newly independent Ice Cream business. With extensive experience in the consumer goods industry, van Boxmeer is currently the Chair of Vodafone Group Plc and a non-executive director at Heineken Holding N.V.
The Ice Cream unit will be separated through a demerger and listed on the Amsterdam, London, and New York stock exchanges, matching the current markets where Unilever shares are traded.
The Ice Cream business will be incorporated in the Netherlands, and its <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/03/37916172/unilevers-ice-cream-unit-may-find-home-in-amsterdam-over-london-report">headquarters will be maintained in Amsterdam.</a>
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/02/43651110/starbucks-faces-legal-action-over-alleged-discriminatory-hiring-practices" rel="noreferrer noopener">&#8216;Racism Has No Place in Missouri&#8217;: State Attorney General Sues Starbucks Over Hiring Policies</a>
The decision comes after a thorough evaluation by Unilever&#8217;s Board of Directors, aimed at maximizing returns for shareholders while positioning the Ice Cream business for future success.
For the fiscal year 2024, Unilever reported a 4.2% increase in underlying sales, driven by a 2.9% growth in volume.
&nbsp;Turnover&nbsp;rose by 1.9% to 60.8 billion euros ($63.16 billion), with a negative impact of -0.7% from currency fluctuations and -1.5% from net divestments.
Power Brands, which account for over 75% of turnover, led the growth with a 5.3% underlying sales growth and a 3.8% increase in volume.
Brand and marketing investment rose by 120 basis points to 15.5%, marking the highest level in more than a decade.
The underlying operating margin grew by 170 basis points to 18.4%, while the gross margin expanded by 280 basis points.
Underlying earnings per share rose by 14.7%, though diluted EPS fell 10.6% due to losses from disposals and increased spending on productivity initiatives.
The quarterly dividend was increased by 6.1% compared to fourth-quarter FY23, and a new 1.5 billion euros share buyback program was announced.
Outlook: Unilever expects a slower start to 2025 with subdued growth in the short term, but both market conditions and growth are expected to improve as the year progresses, driven by price hikes reflecting higher commodity costs in 2025.
The company forecasts underlying sales growth for <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/calendars/guidance">2025 of 3% &#8211; 5%.</a>
Price Action: UL shares are trading lower by 6.26% at $55.44 in premarket at the las check Thursday.
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/02/43656323/burger-king-parent-restaurant-brands-posts-q4-beat-on-robust-demand" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Burger King Parent Restaurant Brands Q4: Earnings Beat, 26% Sales Jump, Popeyes Comps Dip And More</a></li>
</ul>
Image: Shutterstock/ BearFotos.

Guidance

General

Consumer Giant Unilever Warns On Slower Start To 2025, Ice Cream Spin-Off Moves Forward With Amsterdam Incorporation

Vodafone Group shares are trading lower after the company reported Q3 financial results.

Group total revenue: Increased by 5.0% to €9.8 billion in Q3 with good organic service revenue growth partially offset by adverse foreign exchange movements.&nbsp;
− Group service revenue: Grew by 5.6% in Q3 to €7.9 billion and on an organic basis increased 5.2% (Q2: 4.2%), driven by broadbased growth, excluding Germany. The acceleration in quarterly trends was driven by the UK and Africa.
− Group Adjusted EBITDAaL: Increased by 2.2% on an organic basis to €2.8 billion, as service revenue growth in most markets and lower energy costs in Europe more than offset the impact of the TV law change in Germany. The Adjusted EBITDAaL margin of 28.8% was 0.5 percentage points lower year-on-year on an organic basis. On a year-to-date basis, Adjusted EBITDAaL increased by 3.2% on an organic basis to €8.2 billion. Operating profit decreased by 18.4% to €1.0 billion&nbsp;
− Share buybacks: Third €0.5 billion tranche completed 22 January 2025, with 1.8 billion shares repurchased for €1.5 billion since May 2024. Final €0.5 billion tranche from the initial €2 billion buyback programme commencing today.&nbsp;
− Group FY25 guidance reiterated: On track to deliver Group Adjusted EBITDAaL of c.€11 billion and Group Adjusted free cash flow of at least €2.4 billion. − UK merger: In December 2024, the UK's Competition and Markets Authority approved the combination of Vodafone and Three in the UK. We expect the merger to formally complete in the next few months.&nbsp;
− Vodafone Italy disposal: The sale of Vodafone Italy to Swisscom AG for €8 billion in cash completed on 31 December 2024. Proceeds have been used to reduce ne

Vodafone Group Q3 2025 Trading Update: Revenue €9.81B (+5% YoY) And Operating Profit €1.022B (-18.4% YoY); Reiterates FY25 Guidance

AST SpaceMobile, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ASTS#NASDAQ">ASTS</a>) shares are trading higher premarket on Monday. The company disclosed a definitive long-term commercial agreement with Vodafone Group Plc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VOD#NASDAQ">VOD</a>) through 2034.
This partnership marks a significant advancement in their efforts to expand <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/24/12/b42386929/ast-spacemobile-announces-definitive-commercial-agreement-with-vodafone-through-2034" rel="noreferrer noopener">global broadband connectivity.</a>
The agreement establishes a framework for Vodafone to provide space-based cellular broadband connectivity in its home markets and to other operators through its Partner Markets program.
Since 2018, Vodafone has been a key investor and technology partner in AST SpaceMobile, contributing to major breakthroughs in direct-to-device 2G, 4G, and 5G connectivity.
Vodafone has now ordered its first Block 1 BlueBird gateway, advancing the deployment of AST SpaceMobile&#8217;s global network.
This gateway will enable users outside traditional coverage areas to connect directly to AST SpaceMobile&#8217;s satellites, routing data through Vodafone's network for broadband access.
The next-generation Block 2 BlueBird satellites, with communications arrays up to 2,400 square feet, will offer up to 10 times the bandwidth capacity of current BlueBird satellites.
This will enable peak data transmission speeds of up to 120 Mbps, supporting voice, full data, and video applications.
Last week, AST SpaceMobile collaborated with Cadence Design Systems to develop the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42295964/space-based-internet-gets-a-boost-ast-spacemobile-and-cadence-collaborate-on-high-bandwidth-satellite-chip" rel="noreferrer noopener">AST5000 ASIC for its BlueBird satellite program</a>.
Last month, AST SpaceMobile&nbsp;reported&nbsp;third-quarter revenue of $1.1 million and an adjusted loss of $1.10 per share, missing&nbsp;analyst estimates<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/space/24/11/41994523/ast-spacemobile-misses-q3-earnings-expectations-announces-new-launch-service-agreements" rel="noreferrer noopener"> for a loss of 20 cents per share</a>.
Investors can gain exposure to the ASTS via&nbsp;Procure Space ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UFO#NASDAQ">UFO</a>).
Price Action: ASTS shares are up 9.52% at $27.73 premarket at the last check Monday.
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/42389113" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nvidia Hit With Antitrust Probe in China, Stock Slides</a></li>
</ul>
Image via Shutterstock.

AST SpaceMobile Secures Long-Term Vodafone Deal To Boost Global Coverage

Oracle Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ORCL#NYSE">ORCL</a>) will release its second quarter fiscal year 2025 results after the<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/ORCL/earnings"> closing bell on Monday, Dec. 9.</a>
Analysts expect the Austin, Texas-based company to report quarterly earnings at $1.48 per share, up from $1.34 per share in the year-ago period. Oracle is projected to report quarterly revenue of $14.12 billion, compared to $12.94 billion a year earlier, according to data from <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard">Benzinga Pro</a>.
Oracle recently strengthened its collaboration with Vodafone Group Plc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VOD#NASDAQ">VOD</a>) Business IoT to provide global IoT connectivity for customers using Oracle's Enterprise Communications Platform (ECP) applications.
Oracle shares gained 2.9% to close at $191.69 on Friday.
Benzinga readers can access the latest analyst ratings on the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/22/09/28888638/exclusive-study-finds-benzinga-analyst-ratings-data-yields-market-beating-strategie">Analyst Stock Ratings</a> page. Readers can sort by stock ticker, company name, analyst firm, rating change or other variables.
Let's have a look at how Benzinga's most-accurate <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/TJX/analyst-ratings">analysts have rated the company</a> in the recent period.
<ul>
<li>Guggenheim analyst John Difucci maintained the stock with a Buy rating and raised the price target from $200 to $220 on Dec. 5. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 63%.</li>
<li>Jefferies analyst Brent Thill maintained a Buy rating and boosted the price target from $190 to $220 on Dec. 5. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 79%.</li>
<li>RBC Capital analyst Alex Zukin initiated coverage on the stock a Sector Perform rating and a price target of $165 on Oct. 23. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 81%.</li>
<li>JMP Securities analyst Patrick Walravens maintained a Market Outperform rating and boosted the price target from $175 to $205 on Oct. 18. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 71%.</li>
<li>Bernstein analyst Mark Moerdler maintained an Outperform rating and increased the price target from $201 to $202 on Sept. 30. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 74%.</li>
</ul>
Considering buying ORCL stock? Here&#8217;s what analysts think: 
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="555" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/09030546/image-52-1024x555.png" alt="" class="wp-image-682566" style="width:624px;height:auto" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/09030546/image-52-1024x555.png 1024w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/09030546/image-52-300x163.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/09030546/image-52-768x416.png 768w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/09030546/image-52.png 1128w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>
Read This Next: 
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/24/12/42380712/how-to-earn-500-a-month-from-oracle-stock-ahead-of-q2-earnings">How To Earn $500 A Month From Oracle Stock Ahead Of Q2 Earnings</a></li>
</ul>

Price Target

ORCL

Oracle Gears Up For Q2 Print; Here Are The Recent Forecast Changes From Wall Street's Most Accurate Analysts

<a href="https://cts.businesswire.com/ct/CT?id=smartlink&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fast-science.com%2F&amp;esheet=54163580&amp;newsitemid=20241208628293&amp;lan=en-US&amp;anchor=AST+SpaceMobile%2C+Inc.&amp;index=1&amp;md5=6e98717b247209a99ac3a5b1b93c6e81">AST SpaceMobile, Inc.</a> ("AST SpaceMobile") (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ASTS#NASDAQ">ASTS</a>), the company building the first and only space-based cellular broadband network accessible directly by everyday smartphones, designed for both commercial and government applications, and Vodafone Group Plc (Vodafone) (LSE: VOD), a leading European and African telecommunications company, announced today that they have entered into a definitive long-term commercial agreement through 2034. This is a significant step forward in their collaboration to expand broadband connectivity globally.

AST SpaceMobile and Vodafone Partner for Global Broadband Connectivity Through 2034

Following successful completion of its business support systems transformation, expansion and extension of existing agreement supports Vodafone Italy's commitment to bringing next-generation services and experiences to its customers
JERSEY CITY, NJ / ACCESSWIRE / November 12, 2024 / Amdocs (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DOX#NASDAQ">DOX</a>), a leading provider of software and services to communications and media companies, today announced a five-year extension of its strategic collaboration with Vodafone Italy. Under the new agreement, Amdocs will modernize the Italian service provider's business platform to cloud-ready and cloud-native solutions, and migrate the operator's business support systems environment to the Microsoft Azure cloud.
Designed to empower Vodafone Italy to deliver faster, high-quality and next-generation services and experiences to its customers, this new collaboration will also enable the service provider to enhance operational efficiency and reduce costs. As part of the project, Amdocs will also continue to support Vodafone Italy's ongoing modernization of its IT systems.

Vodafone Italy Extends And Expands Relationship With Amdocs To Modernize And Migrate Its Systems To The Cloud, Improving Operational Efficiency And Empowering New Innovative Services

https://www.reuters.com/markets/deals/swisscom-offers-new-proposals-win-italys-approval-vodafone-deal-2024-11-12/#:~:text=MILAN%2C%20Nov%2012%20(Reuters),letter%20seen%20by%20Reuters%20showed.

'Swisscom Offers New Proposals To Win Italy's Approval For Vodafone Deal' - Reuters News

Vodafone Group shares are trading lower. The company reported H1 financial results.

America Movil, S.A.B. de C.V. American Depositary Shares (each representing the right to receive twenty (20) Series B Shares

Comments

Vodafone Group

Noticias

SOCIO/CONTRIBUIDOR

BENZINGA GLOBAL