PayPal has significantly reduced its total share count throughout 2026. As of September 30, 2026, the company reported 837 million basic shares outstanding, down from 920 million at the end of 2025. This represents a reduction of approximately 9% over the nine-month period.
The company executed this reduction through aggressive stock repurchases. Over the 12 months ending September 30, 2026, PayPal spent between $6.0 billion and $6.1 billion to retire approximately 117 million shares. In the third quarter alone, the firm spent $1.5 billion to buy back 28 million shares.
These buybacks contributed to an 8% year-over-year increase in adjusted earnings per share, which reached $1.45 for the third quarter. Management has maintained its full-year target of $6 billion for repurchases and raised its 2026 non-GAAP EPS guidance to approximately $5.60.
Beyond buybacks, the company is implementing cost-saving measures led by CEO Enrique Lores, aiming for annual savings exceeding $1.5 billion. Additionally, PayPal has introduced a quarterly dividend of $0.14 per share, with a scheduled payout date of December 24, 2026.
