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Digital Realty raises 2026 guidance after record 200 MW AI lease and strong first-quarter bookings
Digital Realty signed a record 200 MW AI data center lease in Charlotte and raised its 2026 revenue guidance to US$6.65-US$6.75 billion. The company holds US$1.80 billion in annualized rent backlog not yet generating revenue.
Digital Realty Books Record 200 MW AI Lease, Raises 2026 Guidance
Digital Realty Trust lifted its 2026 revenue guidance to US$6.65-US$6.75 billion and raised net income per diluted share to US$2.65-US$2.75 following first-quarter results that exceeded expectations. The company reported its second-highest bookings ever, anchored by a 200 MW AI data center lease in Charlotte.
The Charlotte deal and a US$1.80 billion annualized rent backlog give the company visibility into future cash flow. These contracted commitments, not yet generating revenue, form the basis for management's confidence in the higher 2026 outlook.
The Execution Question
Digital Realty's investment case rests on sustained demand for high-power data centers built for AI workloads. The record lease and expanded backlog support that thesis in the near term. But execution matters more now.
The company must convert its 1.2 GW construction pipeline into operational capacity on schedule and on budget. Lease commencement timing will directly affect when backlog converts to actual revenue. Delays or cost overruns could pressure margins.
Heavy investment in key markets like Northern Virginia introduces another risk. If capacity additions outpace customer demand-particularly if enterprise decision cycles slow-Digital Realty could face pressure to discount rates or hold excess inventory.
What the Numbers Show
Digital Realty projects US$8.2 billion in revenue and US$897.5 million in earnings by 2029. Community fair value estimates for the stock range from US$201.03 to US$245.87, reflecting different views on how quickly backlog converts to earnings.
The US$1.80 billion backlog ties near-term performance directly to execution. Investors should monitor lease commencement schedules and construction progress on the 1.2 GW pipeline.
For real estate and construction professionals, understanding Digital Realty's model matters. The company's data center strategy reflects broader trends in how enterprises allocate capital for infrastructure. Learn more about AI for Real Estate & Construction to see how these shifts affect property development and operations across the sector.