SBA Communications (SBAC) Q1 FY26 earnings call: guidance and Q&A

U.S. customers are actively investing in their networks, expanding 5G coverage with new spectrum like C-band, deploying massive MIMO antennas, and addressing strain from fixed wireless access. The majority of Q1 leasing activity came from new leases, and the U.S. backlog saw a moderate increase, with applications outpacing execution. This trend suggests steady leasing activity for the remainder of 2026. Looking ahead, organic growth is expected to be driven by the upper C-band auction in mid-2027, the evolution of 6G network architecture towards a more balanced uplink-downlink mix, and new spectrum bands for future auctions, all requiring new hardware at tower sites.

The international segment delivered a solid quarter, with the integration of Millicom assets progressing well and exceeding initial lease-up projections. The company is ramping up new tower builds in Central America, having constructed over 60 towers in Q1, with plans for significant further expansion. These investments, including land purchases, are expected to yield risk-adjusted returns well above the cost of capital. This strategy aims to enhance the overall international portfolio by reducing FX exposure, diversifying the customer base, and extending lease terms, ultimately improving cash flow durability.

SBA is actively exploring opportunities in mobile edge computing, particularly for AI inference and low-latency environments critical for future applications. Macro tower compounds offer a cost-effective solution for edge compute needs, benefiting from strategic locations, existing power, backhaul infrastructure, and zoning protections. While still in early stages with some trial deployments, this initiative is viewed as a potential incremental revenue driver, with expectations for future financial contributions as traction grows.

The company maintains a healthy balance sheet with a net debt to adjusted EBITDA ratio of 6.6x, within its target range of 6-7x. They paid down $750 million of ABS debt using their revolving credit facility and plan to use free cash flow for further paydown. SBA is committed to achieving investment-grade status, anticipating an inaugural bond issuance in 2026 to reduce debt costs and access deeper capital markets. Share buybacks are expected to remain an important part of the capital allocation strategy for 2026, alongside dividends and new asset investments, balancing opportunities as they arise.

The divestiture of the Canadian tower portfolio was a strategic decision, driven by the conclusion that achieving sufficient scale to grow the business and meet customer needs in that market was not feasible. The sale achieved an attractive and appropriate price, aligning with the company's ongoing portfolio review process. This review aims to ensure optimal positioning in each operating market in terms of relative scale and alignment with leading carriers, demonstrating a consistent approach to asset management.

Management noted a more constructive dialogue with Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) regarding new tower construction opportunities in the U.S., marking a shift from previous years. Historically, SBA was a primary supplier of new builds, a role that diminished with the rise of smaller companies offering less attractive financial terms. However, in the current environment, with broader relationships, increasing cost of capital, and carriers seeking stable, long-term partners, there is a growing opportunity for companies like SBA to undertake more new tower builds in the U.S.