Iridium Communications Past Earnings Performance
Past criteria checks 2/6
Iridium Communications has been growing earnings at an average annual rate of 59.9%, while the Telecom industry saw earnings growing at 18.4% annually. Revenues have been growing at an average rate of 7.9% per year. Iridium Communications's return on equity is 19.7%, and it has net margins of 10.5%.
Key information
59.93%
Earnings growth rate
61.63%
EPS growth rate
| Telecom Industry Growth | 6.72% |
| Revenue growth rate | 7.91% |
| Return on equity | 19.74% |
| Net Margin | 10.55% |
| Last Earnings Update | 30 Jun 2026 |
Recent past performance updates
Recent updates
Seeking Alpha • Sep 10
Iridium Communications: The $54 Deal Price Overstates The Upside
Summary Iridium Communications (IRDM) offers only about 11% merger-arb upside at current prices, not the headline 15%, due to Rocket Lab (RKLB) stock weakness. IRDM's deal value is highly sensitive to RKLB's share price; a 21% RKLB decline eliminates all merger spread, exposing IRDM holders to downside risk. Deal completion risk remains material, with regulatory and shareholder approvals pending; IRDM is not attractively valued as a standalone if the merger fails. Given limited upside and significant RKLB and closing risk, I rate IRDM a Sell and would lock in recent gains rather than hold for uncertain merger returns. Read the full article on Seeking Alpha
Narrative Update • Aug 27
IRDM: Rocket Lab Deal Premium Will Likely Outrun Long Term Cash Returns
Analysts have lifted the fair value estimate for Iridium Communications to $36.00 from $16.00, reflecting updated assumptions around revenue growth, profit margins and future P/E multiples in light of recent price target increases following Rocket Lab's planned $8b acquisition of the company and Iridium's Q2 revenue and subscriber beat. Analyst Commentary Street research on Iridium Communications since the Rocket Lab acquisition announcement has been active, with several firms revisiting their valuation work and ratings.
Narrative Update • Aug 12
IRDM: Rocket Lab Deal And Spectrum Assets Will Shape Event Driven Risk Balance
The analyst fair value estimate for Iridium Communications has shifted from $60 to $54 as analysts incorporate the agreed $54 per share Rocket Lab acquisition price, slightly higher projected revenue growth, a lower profit margin outlook, a modestly higher discount rate, and P/E assumptions that are closer to recent Street targets. Analyst Commentary Recent research on Iridium Communications centers on the agreed Rocket Lab acquisition at US$54 per share and how that price now anchors many valuation frameworks.
Narrative Update • Jul 29
IRDM: Vertically Integrated Deal And Aireon Integration Will Shape Fairly Valued Outlook
Iridium Communications' analyst fair value estimate has shifted from $45 to $42, with analysts pointing to higher assumed revenue growth, improved profit margins, and a lower future P/E multiple that reflects recent price target moves clustered around the $54 acquisition value discussed in Street research. Analyst Commentary Recent Street research around Iridium Communications focuses heavily on the proposed acquisition by Rocket Lab and how that agreed US$54 per share transaction value frames upside and downside for the stock.Narrative Update • Jul 15
IRDM: Vertically Integrated Space Deal Will Test Spectrum Promise And Aireon Execution
Iridium Communications' analyst fair value estimate has shifted from $37.88 to $45.00. This reflects updated views on its acquisition by Rocket Lab and the role of Iridium's spectrum and on orbit services within a broader vertically integrated space platform.Narrative Update • Jul 01
IRDM: Rocket Lab Deal And Spectrum Assets Will Shape Future Risk Reward Balance
Analysts have lifted the implied fair value estimate for Iridium Communications from $48.00 to $60.00, reflecting a higher consolidated deal value following Rocket Lab's agreed $54.00 per share acquisition price and broader Street support for the industrial logic of combining Iridium's spectrum and on orbit services with Rocket Lab's launch and spacecraft platform. Analyst Commentary Street research on Iridium Communications is centering on how the agreed acquisition by Rocket Lab could reshape the combined space platform, with several bullish analysts highlighting spectrum assets, recurring service revenue and integration with launch and spacecraft capabilities as key drivers of the higher implied fair value.Narrative Update • Jun 17
IRDM: Spectrum Hype Will Face Aireon Deal Risk And Flat Revenue
The analyst price target for Iridium Communications has been reset higher from $30.38 to $37.88, reflecting updated assumptions on revenue growth, profitability and future P/E as analysts factor in recent positive views on the Aireon acquisition, service upgrades and a series of upward revisions to external price targets. Analyst Commentary Recent research on Iridium Communications highlights a mix of optimism and caution as analysts reassess how the Aireon acquisition, service upgrades and new commercial relationships could affect the company’s growth path and valuation framework.Narrative Update • Jun 03
IRDM: Spectrum Optionality And Capital Returns Will Shape Future Risk Reward Balance
Iridium Communications' updated analyst price targets center around $40 and higher, as analysts factor in revised revenue growth assumptions, adjusted discount rates, and updated long term P/E expectations following a series of recent initiations, target changes, and rating moves on the stock. Analyst Commentary Bullish analysts have been active on Iridium Communications, with several research notes pointing to revised price targets around the US$40 level.Narrative Update • May 17
IRDM: Spectrum Optimism Around Amazon Ties Will Likely Outrun Cash Flow Reality
Analysts lifted their average price targets on Iridium Communications by double digits into the $26 to $40 range, citing reassessed spectrum value after the Amazon-related commentary, as well as a series of higher P/E assumptions alongside recalibrated discount rates and profit margin expectations. Analyst Commentary Recent research on Iridium Communications has centered on how investors should weigh the value of its spectrum and long term growth opportunities against execution risks and current valuation.Narrative Update • May 01
IRDM: Spectrum Optionality And Defense Connectivity Will Drive Future Upside
Analysts have raised the fair value estimate for Iridium Communications to $48 from $40, citing updated assumptions about revenue growth, profit margins, a lower discount rate, and a higher future P/E multiple, in line with a series of recent price target increases from multiple firms. Analyst Commentary Recent Street research around Iridium Communications shows a mix of views, but the most optimistic voices are focused on spectrum potential, execution on partnerships, and visibility into future cash flows.Narrative Update • Apr 17
IRDM: Spectrum Hype Will Confront Flat 2026 Service Revenue Outlook
The analyst price target for Iridium Communications has shifted from $29.00 to $30.38, with analysts pointing to stronger perceived value in the company’s spectrum assets, increased spectrum optionality, and updated views on future P/E expectations as key drivers of the change. Analyst Commentary Recent research on Iridium Communications highlights a mix of optimism around spectrum value and future optionality, balanced by questions about execution and the pace at which that value could be realized.Narrative Update • Apr 03
IRDM: Spectrum Optionality Focus Will Clash With Softer 2026 Outlook
Narrative Update on Iridium Communications The analyst price target on Iridium Communications has moved higher to $26, up $2 from $24, as analysts point to growing interest in the company’s spectrum optionality and an early stage shift in its business focus despite softer guidance for 2026. Analyst Commentary Recent research on Iridium Communications centers on how the market is weighing softer 2026 guidance against the company’s spectrum optionality and early stage shift in business focus.Narrative Update • Mar 20
IRDM: Spectrum Optionality And Early Business Pivot Will Shape Future Returns
Iridium Communications' analyst price target has been reset to $26, while the intrinsic value estimate edges to $29.00 from $29.75 as analysts factor in slightly lower revenue growth assumptions, higher profit margin expectations, and updated views on spectrum optionality and the timing of a potential business pivot. Analyst Commentary Recent research on Iridium centers on how investors should weigh a refreshed outlook on spectrum opportunities against more tempered medium term guidance and a still early business pivot.Narrative Update • Mar 06
IRDM: Spectrum Optionality And Counter Drone Role Will Support Future Rebound
Analysts have raised their price targets for Iridium Communications to $26, citing growing interest in the company’s spectrum optionality despite softer guidance, and viewing it as a secondary beneficiary of rising demand for low cost, scalable counter-drone solutions. Analyst Commentary Bullish analysts are highlighting Iridium as a secondary beneficiary of rising interest in low cost, scalable counter drone solutions, especially in light of recent geopolitical events that have put drone and missile defense back in focus.Narrative Update • Feb 19
IRDM: Spectrum Optionality Enthusiasm Will Likely Clash With Soft 2026 Outlook
Analysts have lifted their average price target on Iridium Communications to $26 from $24, pointing to growing interest in the company's spectrum optionality, even as guidance for 2026 remains soft and any potential pivot is still at an early stage. Analyst Commentary Recent research highlights a mixed setup for Iridium Communications.Narrative Update • Feb 05
IRDM: Index Shift And Sector P E Will Support Future Rebound Potential
Analysts have maintained their fair value estimate for Iridium Communications at $40.00, making slight adjustments to assumptions for the discount rate, revenue growth, profit margin, and future P/E after incorporating recent Street research, including a downgrade and updated views on sector peers. Analyst Commentary Street research on Iridium Communications has recently included a downgrade alongside updated views on sector peers.Analysis Article • Jan 24
Market Participants Recognise Iridium Communications Inc.'s (NASDAQ:IRDM) Earnings Pushing Shares 25% Higher
Iridium Communications Inc. ( NASDAQ:IRDM ) shareholders would be excited to see that the share price has had a great...Narrative Update • Jan 22
IRDM: Competitive And Spectrum Pressures Will Weigh On Future Prospects
Analysts have lowered their price expectations for Iridium Communications, citing softer revenue growth assumptions amid increased competitive pressure and spectrum deals by rivals. Updated models also reflect changes in discount rates, profit margin assumptions and future P/E levels.Narrative Update • Jan 08
IRDM: Spectrum Competition Will Set Up Future Rebound Potential
Narrative Update: Iridium Communications Analysts have trimmed their fair value estimate for Iridium Communications from $45.00 to $40.00, citing a higher discount rate, slightly softer revenue growth and margin assumptions, and increased competitive pressure highlighted by recent spectrum deals pursued by rivals. Analyst Commentary The latest Street research on Iridium remains cautious overall, with some analysts adjusting expectations to reflect competitive pressures from rival spectrum agreements.Narrative Update • Dec 25
IRDM: Competitive Pressures And Spectrum Deals Will Shape Balanced Outlook
Analysts have reduced their fair value estimate for Iridium Communications to approximately $16.00 per share from about $25.00 per share, citing slower expected revenue growth amid mounting competitive pressures and spectrum deals by rival satellite operators. This is partly offset by a modestly improved profit margin outlook and a lower assumed future price to earnings multiple.Narrative Update • Dec 10
IRDM: Expanding Spectrum Deals And Partnerships Will Drive Long Term Upside Potential
Analysts have trimmed their price target on Iridium Communications to $21 from $26, citing heightened competitive pressure and reduced long term revenue growth expectations amid rival spectrum deals. Analyst Commentary Bullish Takeaways Bullish analysts note that Iridium still retains a differentiated satellite network and entrenched government and enterprise relationships, which they see as supporting a valuation floor despite reduced growth expectations.Analysis Article • Dec 07
Iridium Communications (NASDAQ:IRDM) Has Announced A Dividend Of $0.15
The board of Iridium Communications Inc. ( NASDAQ:IRDM ) has announced that it will pay a dividend on the 31st of...Narrative Update • Nov 26
IRDM: Expanding Global Network Partnerships Will Unlock New Connectivity Opportunities
Iridium Communications' average analyst price target was revised downward by $5 to $21, as analysts cite increased competition and rival spectrum acquisitions as key drivers for their more cautious outlook. Analyst Commentary Recent analyst notes reflect a shift in sentiment for Iridium Communications as the competitive landscape evolves.Narrative Update • Nov 10
IRDM: Expanding Global Partnerships Will Drive Connectivity Beyond Competitive Threats
Analysts have lowered their fair value estimate for Iridium Communications from $31.00 to $29.75 per share, citing ongoing concerns about intensifying competition and the recent reduction in industry price targets. Analyst Commentary Recent updates from Street research indicate a shifting landscape for Iridium Communications, as analysts re-evaluate the company’s prospects in light of intensifying competition and strategic spectrum acquisitions by rivals.Narrative Update • Oct 27
Sector Competition And Spectrum Shifts Will Shape Global IoT And Security Futures
Analysts have lowered their price target for Iridium Communications to $31.00 from $33.38. They cite slower revenue growth expectations and intensified competition from new spectrum deals in the satellite communications sector.Analysis Article • Oct 02
It's Down 29% But Iridium Communications Inc. (NASDAQ:IRDM) Could Be Riskier Than It Looks
To the annoyance of some shareholders, Iridium Communications Inc. ( NASDAQ:IRDM ) shares are down a considerable 29...Narrative Update • Sep 12
Satellite IoT And Secure Communications Will Unlock Lasting Opportunities
Analysts have lowered Iridium Communications’ price target to $33.38, citing mounting competitive threats from SpaceX Starlink's spectrum acquisition and anticipated aggressive market entry strategies that may erode Iridium’s market share and profitability. Analyst Commentary Increased competitive pressure due to SpaceX Starlink's acquisition of key wireless spectrum, enabling direct competition with Iridium’s core services.Revenue & Expenses Breakdown
Revenue & Expenses Breakdown
How Iridium Communications 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 30 Jun 26 | 884 | 93 | 190 | 22 |
| 31 Mar 26 | 876 | 106 | 168 | 21 |
| 31 Dec 25 | 872 | 114 | 158 | 20 |
| 30 Sep 25 | 872 | 126 | 153 | 23 |
| 30 Jun 25 | 858 | 113 | 165 | 24 |
| 31 Mar 25 | 842 | 124 | 169 | 27 |
| 31 Dec 24 | 831 | 113 | 168 | 28 |
| 30 Sep 24 | 812 | 114 | 162 | 26 |
| 30 Jun 24 | 797 | 88 | 151 | 24 |
| 31 Mar 24 | 789 | 25 | 140 | 24 |
| 31 Dec 23 | 791 | 15 | 144 | 20 |
| 30 Sep 23 | 790 | -23 | 146 | 20 |
| 30 Jun 23 | 776 | -20 | 145 | 20 |
| 31 Mar 23 | 758 | 16 | 136 | 17 |
| 31 Dec 22 | 721 | 9 | 124 | 16 |
| 30 Sep 22 | 683 | 4 | 115 | 14 |
| 30 Jun 22 | 661 | -1 | 109 | 12 |
| 31 Mar 22 | 636 | -1 | 104 | 12 |
| 31 Dec 21 | 615 | -9 | 100 | 12 |
| 30 Sep 21 | 605 | -11 | 100 | 12 |
| 30 Jun 21 | 594 | -13 | 95 | 13 |
| 31 Mar 21 | 585 | -30 | 92 | 12 |
| 31 Dec 20 | 583 | -56 | 90 | 12 |
| 30 Sep 20 | 576 | -156 | 88 | 12 |
| 30 Jun 20 | 569 | -170 | 90 | 11 |
| 31 Mar 20 | 572 | -178 | 90 | 13 |
| 31 Dec 19 | 560 | -166 | 93 | 14 |
| 30 Sep 19 | 554 | -68 | 92 | 18 |
| 30 Jun 19 | 546 | -65 | 96 | 20 |
| 31 Mar 19 | 538 | -51 | 99 | 21 |
| 31 Dec 18 | 523 | -24 | 98 | 22 |
| 30 Sep 18 | 506 | 124 | 100 | 20 |
| 30 Jun 18 | 486 | 164 | 92 | 19 |
| 31 Mar 18 | 463 | 192 | 88 | 17 |
| 31 Dec 17 | 448 | 218 | 84 | 15 |
| 30 Sep 17 | 440 | 101 | 81 | 15 |
| 30 Jun 17 | 436 | 103 | 81 | 16 |
| 31 Mar 17 | 434 | 105 | 83 | 17 |
| 31 Dec 16 | 434 | 95 | 83 | 16 |
| 30 Sep 16 | 433 | 2 | 85 | 16 |
| 30 Jun 16 | 426 | 0 | 84 | 14 |
| 31 Mar 16 | 419 | -1 | 80 | 15 |
| 31 Dec 15 | 411 | -8 | 81 | 16 |
| 30 Sep 15 | 405 | 84 | 79 | 18 |
Quality Earnings: IRDM has high quality earnings.
Growing Profit Margin: IRDM's current net profit margins (10.5%) are lower than last year (13.2%).
Free Cash Flow vs Earnings Analysis
Past Earnings Growth Analysis
Earnings Trend: IRDM has become profitable over the past 5 years, growing earnings by 59.9% per year.
Accelerating Growth: IRDM's has had negative earnings growth over the past year, so it can't be compared to its 5-year average.
Earnings vs Industry: IRDM had negative earnings growth (-17.6%) over the past year, making it difficult to compare to the Telecom industry average (-16.2%).
Return on Equity
High ROE: IRDM's Return on Equity (19.7%) 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 | 2026/09/16 04:43 |
| End of Day Share Price | 2026/09/16 00:00 |
| Earnings | 2026/06/30 |
| 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
Details of the analysis model used to generate this report is available on our Github page, we also have guides on how to use our reports and tutorials on Youtube.
Learn about the who designed and built the Simply Wall St analysis model.
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
Iridium Communications Inc. is covered by 17 analysts. 5 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 |
|---|---|
| Mathieu Robilliard | Barclays |
| Colin Canfield | Cantor Fitzgerald & Co. |
| James McIlree | Chardan Capital Markets, LLC |