Global Payments Inc. (NYSE: GPN) has announced its financial results for the fourth quarter and full year ending December 31, 2024, showcasing a year of significant transformation and growth. CEO Cameron Bready emphasized the company’s commitment to a broad transformation agenda aimed at enhancing agility and unifying its global operations. He stated, “2024 was a pivotal year for Global Payments as we launched our broad transformation agenda to set the future course for our business.”

Bready expressed satisfaction with the company’s progress in unlocking substantial value, with expectations of delivering over $600 million in annual run-rate operating income benefits by the first half of 2027. He concluded with a strong affirmation of the company's strategic focus, aiming to become the worldwide partner of choice for commerce solutions.

2. Fourth Quarter 2024 Financial Highlights

Global Payments reported impressive figures for the fourth quarter of 2024, marking year-over-year growth in key financial metrics:

GAAP Revenues: $2.52 billion, up from $2.43 billion in Q4 2023.

Diluted Earnings Per Share (EPS): $2.25, a notable increase from $1.38 in the prior year.

Operating Margin: 33.1%, significantly higher than 20.5% in the previous year.

Adjusted Net Revenues: Increased by 5% (6.5% in constant currency, excluding dispositions) to $2.29 billion, compared to $2.19 billion in Q4 2023.

Adjusted EPS: Rose 11% (12% in constant currency) to $2.95, up from $2.65 in the same quarter last year.

Adjusted Operating Margin: Expanded by 40 basis points to 45.2%.

3. Full Year 2024 Performance Summary

In addition to a strong fourth quarter, Global Payments demonstrated solid performance for the entire fiscal year:

GAAP Revenues: Reached $10.11 billion, an increase from $9.65 billion in 2023.

Diluted EPS: Increased to $6.16 from $3.77 in the previous year.

Operating Margin: Improved to 23.1% from 17.8% year-over-year.

Adjusted Net Revenues: Grew by 6% to $9.15 billion, up from $8.67 billion in 2023.

Adjusted EPS: Increased by 11% to $11.55 compared to $10.42 in 2023.

Adjusted Operating Margin: Expanded by 40 basis points to 45.0%.

4. 2025 Outlook and Growth Expectations

CFO Josh Whipple provided an optimistic outlook for 2025, highlighting a sequential acceleration in constant currency growth for both Merchant and Issuer businesses, excluding dispositions. He noted, “We are pleased with our performance during 2024,” and projected that constant currency adjusted net revenue growth would be in the range of 5% to 6%, with adjusted EPS growth expected to fall between 10% and 11%.

Additionally, Whipple stated the company anticipates returning approximately $2 billion to shareholders during the year, while also focusing on reducing its net leverage position.

5. Capital Allocation and Shareholder Return

The Board of Directors of Global Payments approved a dividend of $0.25 per share, which is scheduled to be paid on March 28, 2025, to shareholders on record as of March 14, 2025. This move underscores the company’s commitment to returning capital to its shareholders while pursuing its growth strategy.

6. Conference Call Details

Global Payments’ management will discuss these results and business highlights during a live audio webcast on February 13, 2025, at 8:00 a.m. ET. Interested parties can access the webcast through the investor relations page of the company’s website. A replay of the session will be available for those unable to attend live.

7. Conclusion

Overall, Global Payments Inc. has demonstrated robust financial performance in 2024, setting a solid foundation for future growth through its strategic transformation initiatives. With a focus on enhancing operational efficiency and positioning itself as a leader in commerce solutions, the company is poised for continued success in the evolving financial landscape.

Original press release