Altria Group stock gains focus after outlook and buyback boost

Altria Group, Inc. reported stronger third-quarter results on October 29, 2026, and raised its full-year adjusted earnings outlook. In its press release, the company said adjusted diluted earnings per share rose 4.8% year over year to 1.52 US dollars.

Net revenue increased 1.0% to 6.132 billion US dollars, while revenue net of excise taxes rose 3.6% to 5.441 billion US dollars. Reported diluted earnings per share increased 7.1% to 1.51 US dollars. For the first nine months, adjusted diluted earnings per share advanced 5.1% to 4.33 US dollars and net revenue rose 1.4% to 17.671 billion US dollars.

Guidance Moves Higher

Altria now expects full-year 2026 adjusted diluted earnings per share of 5.66 to 5.74 US dollars, compared with a base of 5.42 US dollars in 2025. The range implies growth of 4.5% to 6.0%. Management said the stronger first-nine-month performance and confidence in its full-year plan supported the increase.

The outlook still reflects moderated e-vapor industry growth, greater macroeconomic uncertainty among adult nicotine consumers, investment in contract manufacturing capabilities and the assumption that NJOY ACE will not return to the market in 2026. The company also plans to reinvest anticipated cost savings from its Optimize & Accelerate initiative and continue investments supporting its broader strategy.

Capital Returns and Product Mix

Altria's board authorized a 1 billion US dollar expansion of the existing share repurchase program on October 28. The authorization now expires on December 31, 2027, while future repurchases remain subject to market conditions and board discretion. Altria repurchased 5.9 million shares in the third quarter for 400 million US dollars and had repurchased 11.2 million shares for 735 million US dollars through the first nine months.

The smoke-free portfolio remains a strategic focus. Helix expanded its on! PLUS range nationwide at the 12-milligram strength and introduced Blueberry Mint and Mango Pineapple flavor extensions. In the fourth quarter, the company plans to add Watermelon Mint in selected retail locations.

Altria's reported figures include special items, while the guidance uses adjusted diluted earnings per share and excludes certain unusual or difficult-to-predict items. The distinction matters for investors assessing the underlying trend, particularly because the prior-year nine-month comparison included a significant non-cash e-vapor goodwill impairment in reported results.

Altria Group stock traded at 69.08 euros on Lang & Schwarz at 10:33 CET on Monday, November 2, 2026.

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