Qualcomm shares tumble over 9% after weak Q1 guidance despite Q4 earnings beat

Qualcomm reported fourth‑quarter results that beat estimates, but its outlook for the first quarter disappointed investors. The company forecast adjusted earnings of $2.15‑$2.35 per share and revenue of $10.4‑$11.2 billion, both below analyst expectations. Handset‑chip revenue fell 26% to $5.14 billion, pulling total chip‑segment sales down 8% to $9.02 billion. The guidance miss triggered price‑target cuts by at least ten brokerages and sent the stock down more than 9% in early trading.

The lower guidance suggests weaker near‑term cash flow, which may pressure Qualcomm’s valuation and affect investors’ exposure to the broader semiconductor sector. Brokerages cutting price targets signal a revised downside outlook for the stock.

  • 1Qualcomm expects Q1 adjusted earnings of $2.15‑$2.35 per share, below analysts’ estimate of $2.27.
  • 2The company projects Q1 revenue of $10.4‑$11.2 billion, slightly under the $10.48 billion consensus.
  • 3Handset‑chip revenue declined 26% to $5.14 billion.
  • 4Total chip‑segment sales fell 8% to $9.02 billion.
  • 5At least ten brokerages cut their price targets on Qualcomm after the report.

Sources