ACI Worldwide reports Q3 revenue drop but raises 2026 adjusted EBITDA outlook

ACI Worldwide said third‑quarter 2026 revenue fell 12% year over year to $427 million, mainly because high‑margin license renewals shifted to the fourth quarter. The company lifted its 2026 adjusted EBITDA guidance to $550 million‑$565 million and projected fourth‑quarter revenue of $612 million‑$642 million, up 27%‑33% from a year earlier. Management highlighted the launch of ACI Kinetic with its first live customer and a new African‑bank signing, and said over 95% of the full‑year revenue target is already secured.

The raised EBITDA range signals stronger profitability than previously expected, which could improve cash‑flow generation and support planned share repurchases. The heavy reliance on fourth‑quarter license renewals means investors should watch Q4 performance for confirmation of the outlook.

  • 1Third‑quarter 2026 revenue fell 12% year over year to $427 million.
  • 2License revenue declined 41% to $94.8 million from $162 million.
  • 3Adjusted EBITDA for Q3 2026 was $97.5 million, down 43% from the prior year.
  • 4Adjusted EBITDA guidance for 2026 was raised to $550 million‑$565 million, from $545 million‑$560 million.
  • 5Fourth‑quarter 2026 revenue is projected at $612 million‑$642 million, up 27%‑33% from $481.6 million a year earlier.
  • 6Management said over 95% of the 2026 revenue target is already signed, contracted or scheduled for Q4.

Sources