What is Lumen Technologies' current financial situation?

Lumen Technologies is in a decade-long turnaround, with debt reduced from $37 billion to $17.5 billion, but full recovery is projected for 2028-2030.

How is Lumen Technologies preparing for the AI economy?

Lumen plans to become the backbone of the AI economy by focusing on connectivity through its existing network and creating strategic partnerships.

Has Lumen Technologies successfully reduced its debt?

Yes, Lumen has significantly decreased its debt load and achieved $135 million in annual interest expense savings year to date.

Home / Business and Economy / Telecom Giant Lumen Battles Debt, Eyes AI Future

Telecom Giant Lumen Battles Debt, Eyes AI Future

30 Nov, 2025

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Summary

Lumen Technologies continues its decade-long financial turnaround effort.
The company has reduced its debt from $37 billion to $17.5 billion.
Lumen aims to become the backbone of the AI economy through connectivity.

Telecom Giant Lumen Battles Debt, Eyes AI Future

Lumen Technologies, formerly CenturyLink, is engaged in a prolonged effort to stabilize its financial standing, a process likened to steering a large ship. Recent third-quarter earnings indicate the company is moving away from immediate distress, though full recovery is not expected until 2028 or later. Significant challenges remain, including $17.5 billion in debt against $9 billion in revenue for the first three quarters of the fiscal year, alongside a declining legacy business.

The company is implementing strategies that include forging new business partnerships and simplifying its network for customers. Lumen's leadership, under CEO Kate Johnson, has articulated a vision to position the company as a foundational element for the artificial intelligence economy. This involves leveraging its extensive fiber optic and copper networks, data centers, and cloud computing services to deliver essential connectivity.