Shares of Vodafone Idea Ltd declined over 2% on Wednesday as the market awaited the company’s Q2 results for the September quarter. Analysts anticipate modest revenue growth for the telecom giant, with expectations of an increase of 5-10% year-on-year (YoY). However, the company is also expected to report a significant loss in the range of ₹6,400-6,700 crore for the quarter.
Investors who are looking to invest in stocks may want to consider the company's financial outlook and the potential impact of these results on its market performance.
Analyst expectations for Q2 performance
According to analysts, Vodafone Idea's adjusted losses for Q2 are projected to be ₹6,394 crore, slightly improving from the ₹6,432 crore loss reported in the previous quarter. In comparison, the company faced a much larger loss of ₹8,738 crore in the same quarter last year. Analysts forecast a 9.6% increase in revenue for the company, bringing it to ₹11,518 crore, up from ₹10,716 crore YoY.
Tariff hikes are expected to drive revenue growth, although continued subscriber loss may offset some of the gains. Additionally, analysts predict a 430-basis-point improvement in EBITDA margins on a sequential basis.
Vodafone Idea shares hit new low
Vodafone Idea’s stock price fell 2.47% on Wednesday, reaching a low of ₹7.48 on the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE). This marks a continued decline for the telecom company, which has seen its share price drop by 17% over the last month. In fact, the stock has lost 56% of its market value so far in 2024. This steep drop in stock value has raised concerns among investors, with many questioning the company's ability to recover.
For those who plan to invest in stocks, it’s essential to assess whether these losses are indicative of deeper financial struggles or if they present a potential opportunity for recovery in the future.
Key challenges and future outlook
Vodafone Idea continues to face challenges, including a decline in its subscriber base and the pressure of ongoing competition within the telecom sector. Analysts are closely monitoring the company's ability to mitigate these losses through revenue growth strategies, including tariff hikes and improvements in subscriber mix. The company's move to expand its 4G/5G network in the second half of FY25 is expected to be a critical development in its recovery strategy.
For those looking to invest in stocks, it is crucial to weigh both the potential risks and rewards before making a decision. While Vodafone Idea faces headwinds, there may still be opportunities for growth, particularly if the company successfully navigates its current challenges and capitalises on future network upgrades.