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Global Payments’ $2.86 Billion Quarter: Can Worldpay Integration Lift Growth?

Global Payments Inc. reported first quarter 2026 results that exceeded internal expectations, reflecting progress in its strategic integration and operational initiatives following the acquisition of Worldpay in January. The combined entity posted adjusted net revenue of $2.86 billion, representing normalized growth of approximately 5.5% (4.5% on a constant currency basis), driven by healthy consumer spending trends, despite certain headwinds such as reduced airline volumes amid geopolitical conflicts and lower IRS payment volumes due to recent tax reforms. Adjusted operating margins expanded by 110 basis points, contributing to a 10% increase in adjusted earnings per share to $2.96, both on reported and constant currency bases, highlighting operational efficiency and execution discipline. The company returned over $600 million to shareholders through dividends and share repurchases during the quarter and maintained a net leverage ratio of 3.5x, consistent with its financial targets.