HUL Q3 Results FY26: PAT Falls 30% to Rs 2,118 Crore; Revenue Up 6%

HUL Q3 Results FY26: PAT Falls 30% to Rs 2,118 Crore; Revenue Grows 6%

FMCG major Hindustan Unilever Ltd (HUL) reported a mixed set of numbers for the third quarter of FY26, with profitability from continuing operations under pressure even as revenue growth remained steady.

The company posted a 30% year-on-year (YoY) decline in consolidated net profit from continuing operations at Rs 2,118 crore, compared to Rs 3,027 crore in the corresponding quarter last year.

However, overall profit for the quarter surged 121% YoY to Rs 6,603 crore, largely supported by one-time gains arising from portfolio transformation initiatives.

Revenue and Operating Performance

HUL’s revenue from continuing operations stood at Rs 16,441 crore, marking a 5.6% increase from Rs 15,556 crore in the same period last year. The growth was primarily volume-led, reflecting improving consumer demand across categories.

Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) from continuing operations rose 3% YoY to Rs 3,788 crore. However, the EBITDA margin declined by 70 basis points to 23.3%, indicating some cost pressures. (One basis point equals 0.01%).

For the quarter, the company reported:

• Underlying Sales Growth (USG): 5%
• Underlying Volume Growth (UVG): 4%

The performance suggests gradual improvement in consumption trends, driven mainly by higher volumes rather than pricing.

Segment-Wise Performance

Home Care

The Home Care segment strengthened its market leadership and delivered 3% USG, supported by mid-single-digit volume growth. Pricing actions taken earlier continued to weigh on overall pricing, creating a negative price impact.

Beauty & Wellbeing

This segment posted 6% USG with low-single-digit volume growth. Hair Care remained a key growth driver, clocking double-digit volume expansion. Premium brands such as Dove and TRESemmé contributed significantly to performance.

Personal Care

Personal Care recorded 6% growth, led by double-digit expansion in premium Skin Cleansing and Oral Care. Brands like Pears and Dove supported mid-single-digit growth in Skin Cleansing, while the Bodywash portfolio continued to gain market share.

Foods

The Foods portfolio delivered 6% USG, backed by high-single-digit volume growth. Tea volumes grew in mid-single digits, but revenue growth remained muted due to price reductions amid a deflationary commodity environment. Coffee maintained strong double-digit growth, supported by both pricing and volume expansion.

Management Commentary and Outlook

The company highlighted early signs of demand recovery, supported by stable macroeconomic conditions and favourable policy measures. Management expects FY27 to outperform FY26, driven by ongoing portfolio optimisation and channel transformation initiatives.

HUL is also focusing on strengthening emerging distribution channels, including quick commerce, while investing in premium and high-growth categories to enhance brand desirability.

Brokerage View and Stock Reaction

Following the Q3 results, a leading global brokerage maintained a Buy rating on the stock with a 12-month target price of Rs 2,800. The valuation is pegged at 55x Q5–Q8 EPS, broadly in line with the company’s five-year average price-to-earnings multiple.

Despite steady revenue growth, the stock reacted negatively to margin pressures and profit decline. Shares of HUL traded 3% lower at Rs 2,396 after the earnings announcement.

Key Takeaways for Investors

• Revenue growth remains stable at 5.6% YoY
• Volume-led growth indicates improving consumption trends
• Margins under pressure with 70 bps contraction
• One-off gains boosted overall reported profit
• Management optimistic about stronger FY27 performance

Retail investors should closely monitor margin trajectory, commodity price trends, and demand recovery momentum in the coming quarters to assess sustainable earnings growth.

Disclaimer: The views and investment tips expressed in this article are for informational purposes only and do not represent financial advice. The views expressed are those of the sources cited and not necessarily those of this website or its management. Investing in equities or other financial instruments carries the risk of financial loss. Readers must exercise due caution and conduct their own research before making any investment decisions. We are not liable for any losses incurred as a result of decisions made based on this article. Please consult a qualified financial advisor before making any investment.

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Govt to sell 3% stake in BHEL at Rs 254 via OFS

Govt to Sell 3% Stake in BHEL via OFS at Rs 254 Floor Price; May Raise Up to Rs 4,422 Crore

Government Announces Stake Sale in BHEL

The Government of India has announced plans to divest up to 3% stake in Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) through an Offer for Sale (OFS). The floor price for the issue has been fixed at Rs 254 per share, offering investors an opportunity to participate in the stake sale of the state-owned engineering major.

The base offer comprises more than 10.44 crore shares, representing 3% of the company’s total equity capital. Additionally, the government has retained an oversubscription option to sell another 6.96 crore shares, equivalent to 2% equity. If this option is fully exercised, the total divestment could rise to 17.41 crore shares, amounting to a 5% stake in BHEL.

Fundraising Potential and OFS Details

At the specified floor price of Rs 254 per share, the government is expected to raise approximately Rs 2,653 crore from the 3% stake sale. If the additional 2% oversubscription option is exercised, the total proceeds could increase to around Rs 4,422 crore.

The OFS will be conducted through a dedicated window on both the BSE and NSE platforms. The sale is scheduled to take place during regular trading hours, beginning at 9:15 am and closing at 3:30 pm on Wednesday.

This move aligns with the government’s broader divestment strategy aimed at improving public sector efficiency and raising capital for fiscal management.

BHEL Share Price Performance

On the day of the announcement, BHEL shares closed at Rs 275.90, marking a gain of Rs 1.25 or 0.46% over the previous closing price. The stock traded comfortably above the OFS floor price, which may attract investor interest given the discount implied by the offer price.

Market participants will closely monitor subscription levels, especially from institutional investors, as the pricing and demand dynamics could influence short-term stock movement.

Strong Q3 FY26 Financial Performance

The stake sale announcement follows a robust December quarter performance by BHEL, reflecting a significant operational turnaround.

Net Profit Surges Over 200%

BHEL reported a net profit of Rs 382 crore for the quarter ended December 2025, compared to Rs 125 crore in the same period last year. This represents a sharp 206% year-on-year increase, driven by improved execution and operating leverage.

Revenue Growth and Operational Highlights

Revenue from operations rose 16% year-on-year to Rs 8,473 crore, up from Rs 7,277 crore in the corresponding quarter of the previous year. Total income, including other income, stood at Rs 8,700 crore, compared with Rs 7,393 crore a year ago.

The company benefited from:

• Improved project execution timelines
• A stronger and expanding order pipeline
• Better cost management and operating efficiency

Cost Structure and Margins

Total expenses for the quarter increased to Rs 8,188 crore, compared to Rs 7,224 crore in the year-ago period. Key cost components included:

• Cost of materials and services: Rs 6,059 crore
• Employee benefit expenses: Rs 1,531 crore

Notably, finance costs declined sequentially to Rs 182 crore from Rs 195 crore in the September quarter, providing additional support to profitability.

What This Means for Investors

The government’s decision to divest stake comes at a time when BHEL is demonstrating improved financial performance. For retail investors, the OFS presents an opportunity to buy shares at a predefined floor price, potentially at a discount to prevailing market levels.

However, investors should evaluate:

• Short-term price volatility post-OFS
• Long-term growth visibility in the capital goods sector
• Execution strength and order inflows in upcoming quarters

With a stronger earnings trajectory and continued policy support for infrastructure and energy projects, BHEL remains a key PSU stock to watch in the current market environment.

Disclaimer: The views and investment tips expressed in this article are for informational purposes only and do not represent financial advice. The views expressed are those of the sources cited and not necessarily those of this website or its management. Investing in equities or other financial instruments carries the risk of financial loss. Readers must exercise due caution and conduct their own research before making any investment decisions. We are not liable for any losses incurred as a result of decisions made based on this article. Please consult a qualified financial advisor before making any investment.

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Equity Mutual Fund Inflows Fall 14% in January 2026; Debt and Hybrid Funds See Strong Recovery

Equity Mutual Fund Inflows Drop 14% in January 2026 as Debt and Hybrid Funds Gain Momentum

Mutual fund investment trends for January 2026 reflected a mixed picture across asset classes. While equity mutual funds witnessed a noticeable decline in inflows, debt and hybrid funds staged a strong comeback, indicating a shift in investor preferences amid changing market conditions.

Equity Mutual Funds See Moderation in Inflows

Equity mutual fund inflows declined by 14% month-on-month to Rs 24,028 crore in January 2026, compared with Rs 28,054 crore in December 2025. On a year-on-year basis, the slowdown was sharper, with inflows falling 39% from Rs 39,687 crore recorded in January 2025.

Despite the overall dip, investor interest remained strong in select equity categories:

• Flexicap funds led inflows with Rs 7,672 crore, retaining their position as the most preferred equity category.
• Midcap funds attracted Rs 3,185 crore, while large & mid-cap funds received Rs 3,181 crore.
• Smallcap funds saw inflows of Rs 2,942 crore.

However, ELSS funds reported outflows of Rs 593 crore, reflecting some profit booking and tax-related adjustments by investors.

Category-wise Monthly Trends

On a month-on-month basis, focused funds recorded a strong 47% rise in inflows, increasing to Rs 1,556 crore. Largecap funds and sectoral/thematic funds also posted growth of 28% and 10%, respectively.

In contrast, midcap and smallcap funds witnessed a cooling of interest, with inflows declining 24% and 23%, respectively.

Debt Funds Rebound After Two Months of Outflows

Debt mutual funds made a strong recovery in January 2026, registering inflows of Rs 74,827 crore after two consecutive months of heavy redemptions. In November and December 2025, the category had seen combined outflows of Rs 1.58 lakh crore.

However, on a year-on-year basis, debt fund inflows were still 42% lower than the Rs 1.28 lakh crore recorded in January 2025.

• Overnight funds topped the chart with inflows of Rs 46,280 crore.
• Liquid funds and money market funds attracted Rs 30,681 crore and Rs 12,763 crore, respectively.
• Corporate bond funds were the laggards, witnessing outflows of Rs 11,472 crore.

Hybrid Funds Witness Sharp Growth

Hybrid mutual funds saw a significant surge in investor interest. Monthly inflows jumped 61% to Rs 17,356 crore in January, compared with Rs 10,755 crore in December. On a yearly basis, inflows nearly doubled, rising 98% from Rs 8,767 crore.

Multi-asset allocation funds led the category with inflows of Rs 10,485 crore, followed by arbitrage funds at Rs 3,293 crore. Arbitrage funds recorded an exceptional 2,507% MoM jump in inflows.

Meanwhile, equity savings funds and conservative hybrid funds saw inflows decline by 81% and 35%, respectively.

Passive Funds and Gold ETFs Shine

Other schemes, including passive funds such as ETFs and index funds, recorded a 50% rise in inflows to Rs 39,954 crore. Gold ETFs stood out, attracting Rs 24,039 crore, marking a 106% month-on-month increase.

Additionally, fund-of-funds investing overseas saw a 501% jump in inflows to Rs 881 crore.

Overall Industry Snapshot

Total inflows into open-ended schemes stood at Rs 1.56 lakh crore in January, a sharp turnaround from an outflow of Rs 66,532 crore in December. Assets under management rose 1% month-on-month to Rs 80.76 lakh crore.

During the month, 12 new mutual fund schemes were launched, collectively mobilising Rs 1,939 crore, with money market funds contributing the most.

Disclaimer: The views and investment tips expressed in this article are for informational purposes only and do not represent financial advice. The views expressed are those of the sources cited and not necessarily those of this website or its management. Investing in equities or other financial instruments carries the risk of financial loss. Readers must exercise due caution and conduct their own research before making any investment decisions. We are not liable for any losses incurred as a result of decisions made based on this article. Please consult a qualified financial advisor before making any investment.

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FPIs turn net buyers in February

FPIs Turn Net Buyers in February, Invest Over ₹8,100 Crore in First Week

Foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) have turned net buyers in Indian equities in February after three straight months of heavy selling. During the first week of the month, FPIs infused more than ₹8,100 crore into domestic stocks, supported by improving global risk sentiment and optimism surrounding an interim trade framework between India and the United States.

FPI Investment Trend in February

As per depository data, FPIs invested a total of ₹8,129 crore in Indian equities till February 6. This marks a notable shift in foreign investor behaviour, following sustained outflows in the preceding months.

In comparison, FPIs had withdrawn:

• ₹35,962 crore in January
• ₹22,611 crore in December
• ₹3,765 crore in November

The renewed inflows suggest a gradual return of confidence among overseas investors after a prolonged period of caution.

2025 Saw Heavy Foreign Selling

Despite the recent turnaround, overall foreign investment sentiment remains mixed. In calendar year 2025, FPIs pulled out a net ₹1.66 lakh crore (around $18.9 billion) from Indian equities, making it one of the weakest years for foreign capital flows.

The large-scale selling was triggered by several global and domestic factors, including volatile currency movements, persistent global trade tensions, concerns over potential US tariff actions, and stretched equity valuations in the Indian market.

What Is Driving the Recent Buying?

Market experts believe the recent buying reflects an improvement in overall risk appetite and renewed confidence in India’s medium-term growth prospects. Easing global uncertainties, stability in domestic interest rate expectations, and optimism around India–US trade and policy developments have collectively supported sentiment.

This shift stands in sharp contrast to January, when FPIs exited Indian markets amid elevated US bond yields and a broader global risk-off environment.

Outlook Remains Cautiously Optimistic

While the initial inflows are encouraging, market participants remain cautious. Further FPI buying could materialise if corporate earnings continue to show resilience and global trade tensions remain under control.

However, certain challenges could cap upside potential. Persistent weakness in the rupee, relatively high market valuations, and possible shifts in US economic or trade policy may act as headwinds for sustained foreign inflows.

Key Market Triggers to Watch This Week

Analysts note that several factors will influence market sentiment in the coming week, including:

• Domestic and global inflation data
• Trading activity of foreign investors
• Global market cues and geopolitical developments
• Ongoing Q3 corporate earnings announcements

On the earnings front, companies such as Ashok Leyland, ONGC, Bajaj Electricals, and Eicher Motors are scheduled to report their quarterly results.

India–US Trade Deal Boosts Sentiment

Investor confidence has also been lifted by the announcement of an interim trade agreement framework between India and the US. Under the proposed arrangement, the US will reduce tariffs on Indian goods to 18% from the earlier 50%.

In return, India will eliminate or lower import duties on all US industrial goods and a wide range of agricultural and food products, including soybean oil, tree nuts, fresh and processed fruits, animal feed grains, wine, and spirits. The agreement is expected to support bilateral trade and improve the overall investment climate.

Disclaimer: The views and investment tips expressed in this article are for informational purposes only and do not represent financial advice. The views expressed are those of the sources cited and not necessarily those of this website or its management. Investing in equities or other financial instruments carries the risk of financial loss. Readers must exercise due caution and conduct their own research before making any investment decisions. We are not liable for any losses incurred as a result of decisions made based on this article. Please consult a qualified financial advisor before making any investment.

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Q3 Results Next Week: Titan, M&M, HUL, ONGC, Coal India Earnings in Focus

Q3 Results Next Week: Titan, M&M, BSE, HUL, ONGC, Coal India and Other Key Earnings to Watch

The upcoming week is set to be a busy one for investors as several heavyweight companies are scheduled to announce their financial results for the quarter ended December 31, 2025 (Q3 FY26). Earnings from sectors such as FMCG, automobiles, oil & gas, metals, pharmaceuticals, infrastructure, and financial services will offer important cues on corporate performance and market direction.

Stocks like Titan Company, Mahindra & Mahindra, Hindustan Unilever, ONGC, Coal India, BSE, and many others will be closely tracked by market participants for insights into demand trends, margin pressures, and management outlook.

Key Companies Announcing Q3 Results Next Week

A diverse set of companies, ranging from large-cap leaders to mid- and small-cap players, will release their earnings. Apart from headline names, results from companies such as Grasim Industries, Britannia Industries, Divi’s Laboratories, Hindalco Industries, Hindustan Aeronautics, and Info Edge India are also expected to influence sectoral sentiment.

Investors will be particularly focused on:

• FMCG companies for rural demand recovery and margin stability
• Automobile makers for volume growth and export trends
• Oil & gas PSUs for realizations, subsidies, and global crude impact
• Metals and mining firms for commodity price movements
• Pharma companies for US market performance and regulatory updates

Q3 Results Schedule: Day-Wise List

February 9, 2026

Key companies reporting results include BSE, Zydus Lifesciences, Aurobindo Pharma, GlaxoSmithKline Pharmaceuticals, KPR Mill, Navin Fluorine International, Cholamandalam Financial Holdings, Amber Enterprises India, The Ramco Cements, Pfizer, Bata India, and several others.

February 10, 2026

Major names scheduled include Titan Company, Eicher Motors, Britannia Industries, Grasim Industries, Samvardhana Motherson International, Oil India, Apollo Hospitals Enterprises, United Breweries, Jubilant FoodWorks, Escorts Kubota, and more.

February 11, 2026

This day will see results from Mahindra & Mahindra, Divi’s Laboratories, Ashok Leyland, LG Electronics India, Lenskart Solutions, Patanjali Foods, Bayer CropScience, Amara Raja Energy & Mobility, among others.

February 12, 2026

Important earnings announcements include Hindustan Unilever, ONGC, Coal India, Hindalco Industries, Hindustan Aeronautics, Muthoot Finance, Bharat Forge, Lupin, Biocon, CRISIL, and several additional companies.

February 13, 2026

Companies such as Torrent Pharmaceuticals, Alkem Laboratories, NBCC (India), Ipca Laboratories, BASF India, KFin Technologies, Indigo Paints, and others will declare their Q3 numbers.

February 14, 2026

The earnings season concludes with results from Ahluwalia Contracts India, Lux Industries, PTC India, Pennar Industries, Rane Holdings, Shriram Properties, and a host of small-cap firms.

What Investors Should Watch

With a packed earnings calendar, market volatility may increase in individual stocks. Investors should focus on revenue growth, operating margins, profit trends, and management commentary to assess the sustainability of earnings and future growth prospects.

Long-term investors may look for fundamentally strong companies delivering consistent performance, while short-term traders may track result-based price movements.

Disclaimer: The views and investment tips expressed in this article are for informational purposes only and do not represent financial advice. The views expressed are those of the sources cited and not necessarily those of this website or its management. Investing in equities or other financial instruments carries the risk of financial loss. Readers must exercise due caution and conduct their own research before making any investment decisions. We are not liable for any losses incurred as a result of decisions made based on this article. Please consult a qualified financial advisor before making any investment.

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NSE Board Approves IPO via OFS Route, Key Details for Investors

NSE Board Clears IPO via Offer-for-Sale Route: What It Means for Investors

The board of the National Stock Exchange (NSE), India’s largest stock exchange by trading volumes and transaction count, has approved its long-awaited initial public offering (IPO). This landmark decision marks a significant step toward listing one of the country’s most influential financial market institutions.

According to the board’s decision, the NSE IPO will be executed entirely through the offer-for-sale (OFS) route. This means that no fresh equity will be issued by the exchange, and the offering will instead allow existing shareholders to partially dilute their holdings by selling shares to the public.

IPO Structure and Key Highlights

The approval by the NSE board brings clarity to the structure of the proposed public issue, which has been under discussion for several years. By choosing the OFS route, the exchange aims to provide liquidity to current investors without altering its capital base.

• The IPO will be a pure offer-for-sale with no fresh issue component.
• Proceeds from the IPO will go to selling shareholders, not the exchange.
• The move is expected to enhance transparency and corporate governance.

Market participants view this development as a major milestone for India’s capital markets, as the listing of the NSE could unlock significant value and broaden investor participation.

Major Shareholders in the NSE

At present, the shareholding structure of the NSE is dominated by large institutional investors. Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) is the single largest shareholder, holding around 10% stake in the exchange. This is followed by the SBI group, which collectively owns approximately 7.6%.

Several other domestic and foreign institutional investors also hold minority stakes. The OFS-based IPO is expected to give some of these shareholders an opportunity to monetize part of their investments after years of limited liquidity.

Five-Member Panel to Oversee IPO Process

To ensure smooth execution of the listing process, the NSE board has constituted a dedicated panel comprising board members and senior leadership. This committee will oversee regulatory coordination, appointment of intermediaries, and overall preparedness for the public issue.

The panel includes:

• Tablesh Pandey
• Srinivas Injeti
• Mamata Biswal
• Abhilasha Kumari
• G Sivakumar
• Ashishkumar Chauhan

The committee’s formation signals the exchange’s intent to move decisively toward listing, subject to regulatory approvals and market conditions.

Why the NSE IPO Matters

The listing of the NSE is expected to be a transformational event for Indian financial markets. As a market infrastructure institution, the exchange plays a central role in equity, derivatives, and debt trading across the country.

For retail investors, the IPO could provide a rare opportunity to invest in a core financial institution with a strong market position and robust trading ecosystem. From a broader perspective, the listing may also improve governance standards and public disclosure practices at the exchange.

While timelines and valuation details are yet to be disclosed, investor focus will remain on regulatory clearances, market sentiment, and the final offer size.

Disclaimer: The views and investment tips expressed in this article are for informational purposes only and do not represent financial advice. The views expressed are those of the sources cited and not necessarily those of this website or its management. Investing in equities or other financial instruments carries the risk of financial loss. Readers must exercise due caution and conduct their own research before making any investment decisions. We are not liable for any losses incurred as a result of decisions made based on this article. Please consult a qualified financial advisor before making any investment.

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RBI Keeps Repo Rate at 5.25%, Maintains Neutral Stance Amid Growth Optimism

RBI Keeps Repo Rate Unchanged at 5.25%, Maintains Neutral Policy Stance

Monetary Policy Decision for FY26

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on Friday decided to keep the policy repo rate unchanged at 5.25%, as the six-member Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) concluded its final bi-monthly meeting for the financial year 2025–26. The central bank also retained its neutral policy stance, signaling a balanced approach amid evolving economic conditions.

This decision was largely in line with market expectations, as policymakers continue to monitor inflation trends, global developments, and domestic growth indicators before taking further action.

Policy to Be Guided by Revised Inflation Data

RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra stated that monetary policy decisions for the full financial year beginning April will be guided by new inflation data based on the revised GDP series, which is expected to be released later this month.

According to the Governor, the upcoming data will provide a clearer picture of price behavior and macroeconomic conditions, enabling the central bank to better assess inflationary pressures and growth dynamics.

Focus on Data-Driven Decisions

Malhotra emphasized that the revised data will help the RBI fine-tune its future policy actions. The central bank remains cautious and prefers to rely on updated economic indicators before making any changes to interest rates.

Optimism on Growth Outlook

Striking an optimistic tone, the RBI Governor highlighted positive developments on the trade front. He noted that recent and upcoming international trade agreements are expected to support India’s economic momentum.

“With the signing of the India–EU trade deal and the US trade agreement in sight, growth momentum is likely to be sustained for a longer period,” Malhotra said, indicating confidence in the medium-term growth outlook.

Liquidity Management Remains a Priority

The RBI reaffirmed its commitment to proactive liquidity management. The Governor stated that the central bank would continue to ensure adequate liquidity in the banking system to support productive sectors of the economy.

This approach aims to balance credit availability with financial stability, especially at a time when investment demand and consumption trends are closely linked to broader global conditions.

Stability in Government Bond Yields

The MPC also observed that government security (G-sec) yields have shown signs of stability over the past eight months. These yields have broadly tracked global bond market trends, reflecting improved alignment between domestic and international financial conditions.

Stable bond yields are seen as a positive signal for financial markets, helping contain borrowing costs and supporting orderly market functioning.

Key Takeaways for Investors

• Repo rate remains unchanged at 5.25%
• RBI continues with a neutral monetary policy stance
• Future decisions to depend on revised inflation and GDP data
• Positive outlook on growth driven by trade agreements
• Liquidity support and stable bond yields remain focus areas

Overall, the RBI’s latest policy decision reflects a cautious yet optimistic approach, balancing inflation management with growth support as the economy navigates a changing global environment.

Disclaimer: The views and investment tips expressed in this article are for informational purposes only and do not represent financial advice. The views expressed are those of the sources cited and not necessarily those of this website or its management. Investing in equities or other financial instruments carries the risk of financial loss. Readers must exercise due caution and conduct their own research before making any investment decisions. We are not liable for any losses incurred as a result of decisions made based on this article. Please consult a qualified financial advisor before making any investment.

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