Western Union edges up 2026 profit guidance as California suspends approval extension for Intermex deal

Third-quarter earnings beat forecasts, but the full-year revenue range of 0% to 1% growth holds only with the pending Intermex acquisition included.

Western Union has edged up its 2026 profit guidance, while the better of its two revenue ranges includes an acquisition still waiting to close. It now expects adjusted earnings per share of $1.28 to $1.38, against the $1.25 to $1.35 it gave in July.

Revenue is less certain. Including the pending Intermex acquisition, Western Union expects growth of 0% to 1% on both a GAAP and an adjusted basis. Without it, revenue would fall 1% to 2%. California has suspended its approval extension for the deal for further review, so the timing of the 0% to 1% case depends on that extension being reinstated.

The third quarter had the same split between profit and sales. Earnings per share of $0.42 were $0.07 better than expected, while revenue of $1.02B fell short of the $1.05B expected.

Chief executive Devin McGranahan said initiatives under the Beyond Efficiency programme are starting to lower costs and show up in results. He said the company keeps investing in digital capabilities, AI and stablecoin initiatives. Beyond Efficiency targets $50m in run-rate cost reductions by the end of 2026 and $200m by the end of 2027.