HT Media Limited (HTMEDIA) Q1 26/27 earnings summary

Executive summary

• Consolidated revenue grew 15% year-over-year to INR 497 crores (INR 43,730 lakhs), with profitability improving and EBITDA nearly tripling to INR 90 crores; margin expanded by 12 points.

• Print segment remained the core driver, with advertising revenue up 15% and circulation revenue steady; disciplined cost management supported margin gains.

• Radio revenue was flat or grew slightly year-over-year, operating on a leaner footprint after surrendering non-viable station licenses.

• Digital revenue declined 28% as the portfolio was reset for sustainable growth.

• Board approved a preferential equity issue/warrant issuance to strengthen capital structure and retire debt, subject to regulatory and shareholder approval.

Financial highlights

• EBITDA rose to INR 90 crores (INR 8,996 lakhs), nearly 3x year-over-year, with margin expanding by 12 percentage points to 18%.

• PAT improved to INR 47 crores (INR 4,797 lakhs), with PAT margin at 9%.

• Net cash position at INR 922 crores, down 6% year-over-year.

• Employee costs reduced to INR 99 crores from INR 111 crores year-over-year due to organizational rightsizing.

• Other income increased due to treasury gains and profit on asset sales.

Outlook and guidance

• No specific revenue or earnings guidance provided; management remains optimistic about sustaining performance.

• Newsprint prices are expected to plateau at current high levels, with margins likely to be maintained if costs do not rise further.

• Focus remains on cost discipline, core business strength, and delivering sustainable, long-term value.