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H&R Block shares fall after second-quarter revenue rise but continued net loss

By Staff Correspondent |
Earnings Update by AlphaStreet

H&R Block, Inc. (NYSE: HRB) closed at $37.06, down 3.93% on the day, after reporting results for the second quarter of fiscal 2026. The company’s market capitalization was approximately $5.06 billion at the latest market close.

Latest Quarterly Results (Q2FY26)

For the quarter ended December 31, 2025, total revenue was $198.865 million, an increase of $19.795 million, or 11.1%, year over year. Total operating expenses were $497.744 million, up from $472.361 million in the prior-year quarter. EBITDA from continuing operations was a loss of $265.844 million, compared with a loss of $261.352 million in the prior-year period. Net loss from continuing operations was $241.566 million, and consolidated net loss was $242.166 million. Diluted loss per share from continuing operations was $-1.91, and adjusted diluted loss per share was $-1.84.

Segment Highlights

– U.S. tax preparation and related services: $111.792 million.
– Financial services: $22.570 million.
– International: $34.718 million.
– Wave: $29.785 million.

Financial Trends

For fiscal 2026 the company reaffirmed full‑year revenue guidance in a range of $3,875 million to $3,895 million and reaffirmed EBITDA guidance in a range consistent with prior guidance. Year‑to‑date the company returned approximately $507.7 million to shareholders through dividends and share repurchases and has roughly $700 million remaining on its repurchase authorization.

Business & Operations Update

Management emphasized improvements in assisted client volume, higher net average charge in assisted services, double‑digit subscription growth in Wave, and increased DIY software sales. The company highlighted investments in AI and technology to improve client experience and operational efficiency. Operating expense increases were attributed to higher field wages and consulting costs tied to strategic sourcing and cost optimization initiatives.

M&A or Strategic Moves

No material acquisitions or divestitures were announced for the quarter. Management referenced continued integration efforts for small business offerings and strategic partnerships to expand services and scale small‑business capabilities.

Equity Analyst Commentary

During the earnings call, management addressed questions on demand trends, pricing, memory cost dynamics, and margin sustainability. Analysts and investors discussed the pace of Wave subscription growth and capital allocation given active share repurchase and dividend programs.

Guidance & Outlook — what to watch for

What to watch for: quarterly revenue progression through the tax season, Wave subscription momentum, net average charge trends in assisted services, gross margin movement, and updates on the company’s strategic sourcing initiative and buyback execution.

Performance Summary

Revenue rose 11.1% in the quarter to $198.865 million. EBITDA remained negative at $265.844 million, and the company reported a net loss from continuing operations of $241.566 million. The quarter combined revenue growth with planned increases in operating expenses and continued capital returns to shareholders.

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