Nexstar Media Group Past Earnings Performance
Past criteria checks 0/6
Nexstar Media Group's earnings have been declining at an average annual rate of -21.5%, while the Media industry saw earnings growing at 7.3% annually. Revenues have been growing at an average rate of 2.2% per year. Nexstar Media Group's return on equity is 6.7%, and it has net margins of 2.9%.
Key information
-21.47%
Earnings growth rate
-13.89%
EPS growth rate
| Media Industry Growth | 13.17% |
| Revenue growth rate | 2.19% |
| Return on equity | 6.73% |
| Net Margin | 2.86% |
| Last Earnings Update | 31 Mar 2026 |
Recent past performance updates
Recent updates
Narrative Update • Jun 05
NXST: Tegna Scale And Political Ads Are Expected To Support Cash Flow
Analysts have adjusted their price targets on Nexstar Media Group, with recent research citing the Citi upgrade after the selloff, Benchmark's $50 target cut, and Deutsche Bank's $20 increase. These changes have led to a refreshed view of the stock's risk and valuation profile.Narrative Update • May 19
NXST: Tegna Scale Is Expected To Support Future Free Cash Flow
Nexstar Media Group's updated analyst price target has shifted slightly lower, from $261.25 to $251.63, as analysts factor in higher discount rates, a lower assumed future P/E of 9.49, and recent mixed target revisions that reflect both the Tegna acquisition benefits and changing views on profit margins and revenue growth. Analyst Commentary Recent research on Nexstar Media Group shows a mix of optimism around the Tegna acquisition and future cash generation, alongside caution around valuation assumptions and execution risks, which together feed into the updated average price target.Analysis Article • May 11
Results: Nexstar Media Group, Inc. Exceeded Expectations And The Consensus Has Updated Its Estimates
Nexstar Media Group, Inc. ( NASDAQ:NXST ) just released its quarterly report and things are looking bullish. It was a...Narrative Update • Apr 27
NXST: Tegna Scale And Distribution Repricing Are Expected To Support Future Free Cash Flow
Analysts kept Nexstar Media Group's fair value steady at $261.25 while refining discount rate and P/E assumptions, reflecting mixed Street research that includes both recent price target reductions and a series of prior target increases tied to the Tegna acquisition and updated post earnings models. Analyst Commentary Bullish Takeaways Bullish analysts see the Tegna acquisition as a scale play that could make Nexstar reach about 80% of US TV households, which they view as supportive for long term earnings power and, by extension, fair value assumptions.Narrative Update • Apr 12
NXST: Tegna Scale And Distribution Repricing Are Expected To Drive Future Free Cash Flow
The updated analyst price target for Nexstar Media Group has moved from $271.50 to $261.25, as analysts factor in a slightly higher discount rate alongside mixed recent research that includes both target cuts and upgrades related to the Tegna acquisition and distribution revenue outlook. Analyst Commentary Recent research highlights a mix of enthusiasm and caution around Nexstar Media Group, with views clustering around the impact of the Tegna acquisition, broadcast scale, and distribution revenue outlook.Narrative Update • Mar 28
NXST: Tegna Scale And Political Repricing Are Expected To Drive Free Cash Flow
The analyst price target for Nexstar Media Group is now set at $271.50, a $2.50 adjustment that reflects updated views on the Tegna acquisition, expected scale benefits across roughly 80% of TV households, and refreshed post Q4 models from several research firms. Analyst Commentary Street research around Nexstar reflects a generally constructive view on the Tegna acquisition, future scale across TV households, and updated post Q4 models, but with different opinions on how much upside that translates into for investors.
New Narrative • Mar 15
Sports Expansion And Digital Ambitions Will Ultimately Strain Margins And Future Earnings Potential
Catalysts About Nexstar Media Group Nexstar Media Group operates a large portfolio of local television stations, national networks and digital properties, with a growing focus on news and sports content. What are the underlying business or industry changes driving this perspective?Narrative Update • Mar 14
NXST: Tegna Acquisition Scale Is Expected To Drive Future Free Cash Flow
Analysts have lifted their average price target on Nexstar Media Group from $249.88 to $269.00, citing updated models after recent earnings, the planned Tegna acquisition that would expand the TV footprint to roughly 80% of U.S. households, and expectations for distribution revenue supported by repricing and upcoming mid term elections. Analyst Commentary Recent research notes show a cluster of higher price targets on Nexstar Media Group, with analysts updating their models around the planned Tegna acquisition, distribution repricing, and the latest earnings update.
New Narrative • Mar 01
Sports Programming And Digital Expansion Will Reshape This Broadcaster’s Long-Term Earnings Power
Catalysts About Nexstar Media Group Nexstar Media Group operates a large portfolio of local television stations and national media assets including The CW and NewsNation, with revenue streams from distribution, advertising and digital products. What are the underlying business or industry changes driving this perspective?Narrative Update • Feb 28
NXST: Free Cash Flow Outlook And Execution Risks Will Shape Return Potential
Narrative Update The analyst price target for Nexstar Media Group has moved from about $232 to roughly $250, as analysts factor in updated views on revenue, profit margins, and future P/E, along with higher Street targets in the $290 to $300 range that are tied to projections for free cash flow. Analyst Commentary Recent Street research on Nexstar Media Group points to a more constructive tone on valuation, with several bullish analysts lifting their price targets into the high US$200s.Seeking Alpha • Feb 27
Despite Upbeat Q4 Revenues, Nexstar Still Faces Uncertainty On Tegna Acquisition
Summary Nexstar Media Group remains a hold as the Tegna acquisition faces significant regulatory hurdles and legal uncertainties. NXST's 2025 results were impacted by the absence of election-year advertising and a $381M impairment, but underlying operations remain stable. At a non-GAAP forward P/E of 8.21, NXST appears undervalued versus peers, contingent on sustained performance and regulatory outcomes. The dividend yield is sustainable for now, but future leverage from the Tegna deal could pressure payouts if anticipated synergies do not materialize. Read the full article on Seeking AlphaAnalysis Article • Jan 26
At US$213, Is Nexstar Media Group, Inc. (NASDAQ:NXST) Worth Looking At Closely?
While Nexstar Media Group, Inc. ( NASDAQ:NXST ) might not have the largest market cap around , it saw a double-digit...Analysis Article • Sep 01
Take Care Before Diving Into The Deep End On Nexstar Media Group, Inc. (NASDAQ:NXST)
When close to half the companies in the United States have price-to-earnings ratios (or "P/E's") above 20x, you may...Narrative Update • Aug 27
Trusted Local News And Digital Ads Will Create Future Resilience
Analysts have raised Nexstar Media Group’s price target to $231.89 on expectations of significant EBITDA synergies and revenue growth from the pending Tegna acquisition, deeper exposure to political ad markets, and a favorable regulatory outlook. Analyst Commentary Bullish analysts cite Nexstar's pending acquisition of Tegna as a major catalyst, projecting significant synergies and expansion, with the combined entity expected to cover 80% of U.S. TV households.Narrative Update • Aug 10
Trusted Local News And Digital Ads Will Create Future Resilience
Upward revisions in both revenue growth forecasts and net profit margin expectations have driven the consensus analyst price target for Nexstar Media Group higher, from $193.26 to $209.00. What's in the News Nexstar Media Group repurchased 311,998 shares for $50 million in Q2 2025, totaling 1.03% of shares.Analysis Article • Jul 29
Nexstar Media Group (NASDAQ:NXST) Might Have The Makings Of A Multi-Bagger
If you're not sure where to start when looking for the next multi-bagger, there are a few key trends you should keep an...Analysis Article • Jul 14
Should You Investigate Nexstar Media Group, Inc. (NASDAQ:NXST) At US$180?
Nexstar Media Group, Inc. ( NASDAQ:NXST ), is not the largest company out there, but it saw a significant share price...Seeking Alpha • Mar 03
Nexstar Media: Incremental Negative Developments Tilt The Risk-Reward Into Neutral Territory (Rating Downgrade)
Summary Nexstar Media's results showed several negative trends, that overall lead to a lowered valuation. While the upside is still sizable, this highlights the high underlying risk profile. Despite cost-cutting efforts, Nexstar's underlying EBITDA ex CW is likely to decline in 2025, and the company continues to face significant industry challenges and high leverage. While ATSC 3.0 offers significant long-term potential, current negative trends and strategic uncertainties lead me to adopt a neutral stance and watch from the sidelines. Read the full article on Seeking AlphaSeeking Alpha • Feb 25
Nexstar Media Q4 Preview: A Good End To 2024
Summary Expecting Nexstar Media Group to report $8.06 EPS on $1.48B revenue for Q4, driven by election year advertising spending. Key focus on political advertising performance, general advertising growth, and updates on CW channel profitability timeline. Concerned about non-political advertising revenue growth post-election; looking for strategies to enhance digital platforms and targeted advertising. Initiating coverage of NXST stock with a hold rating, awaiting more data on 2025 performance to assess long-term growth prospects. Read the full article on Seeking AlphaSeeking Alpha • Dec 09
Nexstar's Interactive Television, M&A, And Why It's A Buy
Summary Nexstar Media Group is poised for growth with the adoption of ATSC 3.0, enhancing interactive TV, signal encryption, and data services. Significant investments in new stations, digital tools, and acquisitions, along with strong asset growth, make NXST a compelling buy at 7x earnings. Despite high leverage, NXST's increasing equity, cash flow growth, and strategic acquisitions indicate robust future financial performance and scalability. Risks include reliance on retransmission agreements, potential restrictive covenants, and market competition, but the current valuation presents a significant buying opportunity. Read the full article on Seeking AlphaSeeking Alpha • Oct 29
Nexstar Media: Political Advertising, Buybacks Should Provide A Promising Seasonal Entry Point
Summary Nexstar Media is fundamentally undervalued with a fair value of $245, presenting over 40% upside from current prices. Seasonal patterns, particularly during election years, show significant stock performance, possibly driven by political advertising revenue. Political advertising cashflows can fuel substantial buybacks, enhancing shareholder value and supporting the stock price. Despite risks, combining strong fundamentals with seasonal tailwinds makes NXST a strong buy. Read the full article on Seeking Alpha
New Narrative • Aug 29
Sports Broadcasting Deals And Political Ads Fuel Revenue Surge Amid Operational Efficiencies
Expansion into sports broadcasting and growth in political advertising revenue are expected to significantly enhance ad revenue.Revenue & Expenses Breakdown
Revenue & Expenses Breakdown
How Nexstar Media Group makes and spends money. Based on latest reported earnings, on an LTM basis.
Earnings and Revenue History
| Date | Revenue | Earnings | G+A Expenses | R&D Expenses |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 31 Mar 26 | 5,111 | 146 | 1,092 | 0 |
| 31 Dec 25 | 4,949 | 92 | 1,059 | 0 |
| 30 Sep 25 | 5,147 | 501 | 1,057 | 0 |
| 30 Jun 25 | 5,316 | 606 | 1,068 | 0 |
| 31 Mar 25 | 5,357 | 631 | 1,074 | 0 |
| 31 Dec 24 | 5,407 | 702 | 1,090 | 0 |
| 30 Sep 24 | 5,224 | 578 | 1,095 | 0 |
| 30 Jun 24 | 4,989 | 432 | 1,094 | 0 |
| 31 Mar 24 | 4,960 | 410 | 1,085 | 0 |
| 31 Dec 23 | 4,933 | 346 | 1,090 | 0 |
| 30 Sep 23 | 5,116 | 435 | 1,093 | 0 |
| 30 Jun 23 | 5,253 | 699 | 1,071 | 0 |
| 31 Mar 23 | 5,258 | 830 | 1,074 | 0 |
| 31 Dec 22 | 5,211 | 971 | 1,050 | 0 |
| 30 Sep 22 | 4,970 | 1,032 | 1,022 | 0 |
| 30 Jun 22 | 4,858 | 913 | 1,013 | 0 |
| 31 Mar 22 | 4,745 | 886 | 982 | 0 |
| 31 Dec 21 | 4,648 | 834 | 970 | 0 |
| 30 Sep 21 | 4,779 | 935 | 974 | 0 |
| 30 Jun 21 | 4,740 | 956 | 949 | 0 |
| 31 Mar 21 | 4,523 | 855 | 905 | 0 |
| 31 Dec 20 | 4,501 | 812 | 891 | 0 |
| 30 Sep 20 | 4,225 | 560 | 864 | 0 |
| 30 Jun 20 | 3,770 | 364 | 788 | 0 |
| 31 Mar 20 | 3,504 | 332 | 745 | 0 |
| 31 Dec 19 | 3,039 | 230 | 675 | 0 |
| 30 Sep 19 | 2,737 | 270 | 589 | 0 |
| 30 Jun 19 | 2,767 | 377 | 582 | 0 |
| 31 Mar 19 | 2,778 | 396 | 572 | 0 |
| 31 Dec 18 | 2,767 | 389 | 567 | 0 |
| 30 Sep 18 | 2,622 | 615 | 496 | 0 |
| 30 Jun 18 | 2,541 | 561 | 496 | 0 |
| 31 Mar 18 | 2,507 | 517 | 504 | 0 |
| 31 Dec 17 | 2,432 | 475 | 538 | 0 |
| 30 Sep 17 | 2,088 | 117 | 517 | 0 |
| 30 Jun 17 | 1,752 | 95 | 442 | 0 |
| 31 Mar 17 | 1,388 | 76 | 362 | 0 |
| 31 Dec 16 | 1,103 | 92 | 255 | 0 |
| 30 Sep 16 | 1,046 | 98 | 253 | 0 |
| 30 Jun 16 | 993 | 91 | 246 | 0 |
| 31 Mar 16 | 950 | 87 | 239 | 0 |
| 31 Dec 15 | 896 | 78 | 232 | 0 |
| 30 Sep 15 | 837 | 81 | 217 | 0 |
| 30 Jun 15 | 772 | 79 | 204 | 0 |
Quality Earnings: NXST has a large one-off loss of $433.0M impacting its last 12 months of financial results to 31st March, 2026.
Growing Profit Margin: NXST's current net profit margins (2.9%) are lower than last year (11.8%).
Free Cash Flow vs Earnings Analysis
Past Earnings Growth Analysis
Earnings Trend: NXST's earnings have declined by 21.5% per year over the past 5 years.
Accelerating Growth: NXST's has had negative earnings growth over the past year, so it can't be compared to its 5-year average.
Earnings vs Industry: NXST had negative earnings growth (-76.9%) over the past year, making it difficult to compare to the Media industry average (1.1%).
Return on Equity
High ROE: NXST's Return on Equity (6.7%) is considered low.
Return on Assets
Return on Capital Employed
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Company Analysis and Financial Data Status
| Data | Last Updated (UTC time) |
|---|---|
| Company Analysis | 2026/06/09 13:05 |
| End of Day Share Price | 2026/06/09 00:00 |
| Earnings | 2026/03/31 |
| Annual Earnings | 2025/12/31 |
Data Sources
The data used in our company analysis is from S&P Global Market Intelligence LLC. The following data is used in our analysis model to generate this report. Data is normalised which can introduce a delay from the source being available.
| Package | Data | Timeframe | Example US Source * |
|---|---|---|---|
| Company Financials | 10 years |
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| Analyst Consensus Estimates | +3 years |
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| Market Prices | 30 years |
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| Ownership | 10 years |
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| Management | 10 years |
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| Key Developments | 10 years |
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* Example for US securities, for non-US equivalent regulatory forms and sources are used.
Unless specified all financial data is based on a yearly period but updated quarterly. This is known as Trailing Twelve Month (TTM) or Last Twelve Month (LTM) Data. Learn more.
Analysis Model and Snowflake
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Industry and Sector Metrics
Our industry and section metrics are calculated every 6 hours by Simply Wall St, details of our process are available on Github.
Analyst Sources
Nexstar Media Group, Inc. is covered by 21 analysts. 8 of those analysts submitted the estimates of revenue or earnings used as inputs to our report. Analysts submissions are updated throughout the day.
| Analyst | Institution |
|---|---|
| Patrick Sholl | Barrington Research Associates, Inc. |
| Daniel Kurnos | Benchmark Company |
| Edward Atorino | Benchmark Company |