GM approves $20 billion buyback, raises 2026 profit outlook

General Motors (NYSE: GM) reported third-quarter 2026 revenue of $50.0 billion and net income attributable to stockholders of $3.3 billion, while its board of directors approved a new $20.0 billion share repurchase authorization. The Detroit-based automaker narrowed its full-year 2026 guidance, raising the expected range for EBIT-adjusted to $14.5 billion to $15.5 billion, up from a previous forecast of $14.0 billion to $16.0 billion.

The company completed a $6.0 billion share repurchase program that was announced in January 2026. The newly authorized $20.0 billion program has no expiration date and will be executed in accordance with applicable securities laws. GM stated it may suspend or discontinue the buyback at its discretion. As of September 30, 2026, the company had 849 million shares outstanding, a decrease from 904 million shares at the end of 2025 and 1.2 billion shares at the end of 2023.

GM also declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.18 per share on its common stock. The dividend is payable on December 17, 2026, to holders of record as of the close of trading on December 4, 2026.

In the third quarter, GM’s EBIT-adjusted increased 21.6 percent to $4.1 billion from $3.3 billion in the same period last year. Automotive operating cash flow rose 32.6 percent, and adjusted automotive free cash flow climbed 40.0 percent. Diluted earnings per share, adjusted for special items, increased 32.2 percent to $3.70 from $2.80 in the year-ago quarter.

For the full year ending December 31, 2026, GM now expects net income attributable to stockholders to be between $8.9 billion and $9.5 billion. Automotive operating cash flow is expected to range from $17.3 billion to $20.3 billion, and diluted earnings per share are projected to be between $9.72 and $10.72 based on updated guidance and year-to-date adjustments.

The company noted that these expected financial results do not include the potential impact of future adjustments related to special items.

GM Chair and CEO Mary Barra and Chief Financial Officer Paul Jacobson discussed the results with investors and analysts during a conference call held at 8:30 a.m. ET on October 20, 2026.