Visa Inc (NYSE:V). reported a net revenue of $8.1 billion and diluted earnings per share of $2 in the third quarter of 2023, ending June 30, marking a year-over-year double-digit increase. The company's operating margin stood at an impressive 62%, highlighting its continued profitability irrespective of economic conditions.
Despite a 12% rise in net revenue, Visa saw a decrease in operating expenses, indicating inherent operating leverage in its business model. The robust operating margin resulted in consistent free cash flow, which amounted to $18 billion in fiscal 2022.
The company has been actively repurchasing its shares, spending $8.4 billion on buybacks in the first nine months of fiscal 2023. This strategy not only enhances the ownership stake of existing investors but also provides a safety net for the stock.
Visa has consistently increased its quarterly payout since going public in 2008, offering shareholders a dividend yield of 0.74%. Although seemingly modest, the less than 25% payout ratio provides ample scope for future increases.
The payment giant's industry dominance is evident as it handles 61% of all credit card transactions in the U.S., and globally, this figure stands at 39%. During the first nine months of fiscal 2023, Visa processed $11 trillion in payment volume, with cross-border transactions growing faster than the overall rate.
There are currently 4.1 billion Visa-branded cards circulating worldwide, thanks to collaborations with major financial institutions such as JPMorgan Chase (NYSE:JPM), Bank of America (NYSE:BAC), and Capital One which have broadened Visa's distribution capabilities and increased card usage frequency.
The high usage of Visa cards is attributed to the various perks and benefits they offer despite economic uncertainties. The existing communications infrastructure for authorizing and settling transactions results in high margins for additional transactions, boosting profitability. This is evident from the increase in Visa's operating margin from 55% in the third quarter of fiscal 2018 to 62% now.
Given its ability to generate substantial net income, investors might want to keep an eye on Visa's stock.
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