Encore Capital (ECPG) beats Q1 estimates as collections revenue rises 21%

Encore Capital Group (ECPG) reported first-quarter 2026 revenue above Wall Street expectations, with sales rising 21% year over year to $475.4 million, helped by stronger collections and improved U.S. operations. The debt recovery company posted non-GAAP earnings of $3.91 per share, 40.8% above consensus estimates. Management said record collections, expanded digital tools and analytics, and stable consumer payment behavior drove the outperformance. Recent portfolio vintages also exceeded internal forecasts, supported by higher purchase volumes and steady repayment trends. Encore said it expects a favorable U.S. debt-buying market to continue, citing elevated charge-off rates and strong consumer lending. The company plans to prioritize portfolio purchases while making incremental share repurchases. Shares traded at $83.68 on May 13, 2026, little changed from $84.24 before the earnings report.