Airtel Q4 profit surges 89% on data biz, high call rates 

NEW DELHI: India’s largest mobile operator Bharti Airtel on Tuesday reported an 89% year-on-year rise in consolidated net profit to ` 962 crore during the January-March quarter against ` 509 crore a year ago mainly due to higher revenue from data business and rise in mobile services rates.
The figure compares with analysts’ estimate of ` 963 crore.
After reporting decline in profits for 15 straight quarters, Airtel returned to growth in the fourth quarter with revenues rising 13.5% to ` 22,219 crore compared to ` 19,582 crore a year ago.
“Network and spectrum investments, a refreshed IT strategy, innovative service platforms and an energised organisation will enable sustained growth in India and South Asia,” said Gopal Vittal, MD and CEO, India & South Asia, Bharti Airtel.

Revenues from mobile data grew 93% year-on-year to ` 1,900 crore, accounting for more than one-third of the growth.
The company’s international business contributed to 28% of overall revenues while the rest came from India operations.
“We see further improvement in Bharti’s India business financials... India data business momentum remained strong. Africa continues to disappoint, according to a report by Kotal Analysts.
The company’s net debt stood at ` 60,542 crore at the end of March 31, 2014.
NAME-RAJ GAURAV
             PGDM 2 SEM