Vicki Brady's Telstra Increases Share Buyback to $1.25 Billion After 9% Profit Rise
Australian Financial Review
ENRICHED
Details
- Date Published
- 18 Feb 2026
- Priority Score
- 2
- Australian
- Yes
- Created
- 20 Feb 2026, 03:30 am
Description
Telstra is accelerating its use of artificial intelligence to stay ahead of its competitors, but it is not increasing spending on the technology.
Summary
Telstra, Australia's largest telecommunications company, has opted to increase its share buyback program following a 9% rise in profits. The article highlights Telstra's cautious approach towards artificial intelligence, noting that while they are accelerating its use to maintain a competitive edge, the company remains wary of overinvesting due to potentially high costs relative to benefits. This perspective is critical as global business spending on AI surges, raising questions about the balance between innovation and financial prudence. Although the emphasis on AI tools aligns with broader industry trends, the article does not directly engage with existential AI risks or detailed policy insights.
Body
CompaniesTelecommunicationsEarnings seasonPrint articleJenny WigginsSenior reporterFeb 19, 2026 – 9.42amFollow our live coverage of the February 2026 ASX reporting seasonAustralia’s largest telecommunications company has cautioned against overinvestment in artificial intelligence, warning the costs could be higher than the benefits, as global business spending on the technology surges.Loading...Jenny Wiggins writes on business, specialising in infrastructure, telecommunications and transport. Connect with Jenny on Bluesky: @jennywiggins.bsky.social Email Jenny at jwiggins@afr.comSaveLog in or Subscribe to save articleShareCopy linkCopiedEmailLinkedInTwitterFacebookCopy linkCopiedShare via...Gift this articleSubscribe to gift this articleGift 5 articles to anyone you choose each month when you subscribe.Subscribe nowAlready a subscriber? LoginLicense articleFollow the topics, people and companies that matter to you.Find out moreRead MoreEarnings seasonTelstra CorporationTelecommunicationsVicki BradyFetching latest articles