3 reasons I'd buy Telstra shares today

The telco giant continues to evolve. Here's why I think Telstra shares still look appealing today.

Telstra Group Ltd (ASX: TLS) has built a reputation as a reliable, income-focused share.

But is the telco a good buy this month? I think it is.

Here are three reasons I would consider buying Telstra shares today.

Woman on phone cheering while sitting at computer

Image source: Getty Images

The earnings base is becoming more consistent

Telstra's core business continues to deliver. Its mobile division remains a key driver of growth, supported by customer additions and higher average revenue per user. That has flowed through to earnings, with the company reporting growth across multiple parts of the business in the first half of FY26.

What stands out to me is how this is being achieved. The company is seeing operating leverage come through, supported by cost control and efficiency gains. It reduced underlying operating expenses during the first half, which helped offset cost pressures and supported profit growth.

This combination of revenue growth and cost discipline is important. It points to a business that is becoming more predictable and easier to manage, which tends to support more stable earnings over time.

Capital returns

There is more to Telstra than the dividend alone.

The company lifted its interim dividend to 10.5 cents per share in February and continues to run a large buyback program, which has been increased to $1.25 billion.

That combination can have a meaningful impact on returns.

Dividends provide a steady income stream, while buybacks reduce the number of shares on issue and support earnings per share growth. Over time, that can help lift both earnings per share and dividends per share.

Telstra is also generating the cash to support this approach, which is what gives me confidence in its sustainability.

Its position in the market remains strong

Telstra's role in Australia's telecommunications network is well established.

Demand for connectivity continues to grow as more devices, services, and businesses rely on mobile and data networks. Telstra remains a key provider across mobile, fixed, and infrastructure, which supports a large base of recurring revenue.

The company is also continuing to invest in its network and technology. This includes expanding its fibre footprint and improving service quality, which helps retain customers and supports pricing.

Over time, that kind of investment tends to reinforce its position rather than weaken it, which is important for a business built around long-term infrastructure.

Foolish takeaway

Telstra offers steady earnings, strong cash flow, and consistent capital returns.

With those pieces in place, I see it as a reliable income-focused investment that can continue to deliver over time, supported by a business that is becoming more stable and predictable.

Motley Fool contributor Grace Alvino has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia's parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Telstra Group. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

More on Communication Shares

A happy man and woman sit having a coffee in a cafe while she holds up her phone to show him the ASX shares that did best today.
Communication Shares

Is the Telstra share price good value or expensive?

The telecommunications giant has plenty going for it, but I'm taking a closer look at whether its shares are worth…

Read more »

A man in his late 60s, retirement age, emerges from the Australian surf carrying a surfboard under his arm and wearing a wetsuit.
Communication Shares

105,558 shares of Telstra pay an income equal to the Age Pension

Can retirees call on Telstra to pay pleasing dividends?

Read more »

A young boy reaches up to touch the raindrops on his umbrella, as the sun comes out in the sky behind him.
Communication Shares

Telstra shares gain 0% in 12 months: Safe haven or value trap?

Find out what the experts tip next.

Read more »

Smiling man paying for his order from his phone on an EFTPOS machine at a restaurant.
Communication Shares

Could Telstra shares be worth significantly more in 5 years?

Mobile, digital infrastructure, and buybacks give me several reasons to watch Telstra through 2031.

Read more »

A man wearing a colourful shirt holds an old fashioned phone to his ear with a look of curiosity on his face as though he is pondering the answer to a question.
Communication Shares

5.2% yield: Are TPG shares a buy for income today?

Is TPG the better telco for dividends?

Read more »

Frustrated and shocked businesswoman reading bad news online from phone.
Communication Shares

Tuas shares under scrutiny after Simba receives Show Cause Notice

The Tuas share price is in focus after Simba Telecom received a regulatory notice over spectrum use and compliance in…

Read more »

A female financial services professional with a manicured black afro hairstyle turns an ipad screen to show a client across the table a set of ASX shares figures in graph format.
ASX Share Market News

Communications and financial shares rise 4% while ASX 200 loses ground

Eight of the 11 sectors rose but a hefty fall in mining stocks pulled the ASX 200 into the red.

Read more »

Couple on their laptop in their home kitchen.
Communication Shares

EVT posts strong Q1 and record FY26 earnings

EVT shares are in the spotlight after a robust first quarter and record full-year results across Hotels and Entertainment.

Read more »