The Best and Worst Dow Stocks

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23. Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE:VZ)

Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 74

Short Interest as of Apr 30, 2025: 1.89%

Verizon Communications Inc. is a technology, entertainment, communications, and information products and services provider. Evercore ISI recently upgraded the company from In Line to Outperform with an increased price target of $48. The research firm also highlighted VZ as its top pick in the wireless sector. Evercore is bullish on Verizon’s growth potential and broadband strategy.

Evercore mentioned:

“Notwithstanding some potential subscriber volatility, we remain confident in its [Verizon’s] ability to meet its wireless service revenue growth target.”

The company has entered into a partnership with Google Cloud to improve customer service using artificial intelligence technology. This collaboration has delivered impressive results. Thanks to AI, it enhanced customer service query quality by 95% and raised sales by around 40%.

Sampath Sowmyanarayan, CEO of Verizon’s consumer group business, mentioned:

“Our collaboration with Google Cloud and the integration of Gemini into our customer care platforms mark a significant advancement in our commitment to providing exceptional customer experiences.”

Heading into 2025, the firm anticipates sustained growth in adjusted EBITDA and wireless service revenue. Management remains confident in improving consumer postpaid phone net adds compared to the previous year.

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