TCS Q3 Results: Profit, Revenue Seen Up; Margins Expected To Expand
Overview
Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) is poised for a strong December quarter, with analysts projecting increased revenue and profit. Despite headwinds from BSNL project ramp-down and wage increases, margins are expected to expand due to operational efficiencies and currency tailwinds. Investors await commentary on demand trends and deal pipeline.
Stocks Mentioned
Revenue and Profit Outlook
Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) is on track to post robust third-quarter financial results, with analysts forecasting a notable increase in both revenue and net profit. Bloomberg estimates suggest a sequential revenue jump of 2%, pushing top-line figures to approximately ₹66,849 crore. Operating profit and net profit are anticipated to climb by 8% each, reflecting improved operational execution.
Margin Expansion Amid Headwinds
A key highlight expected from TCS's results is margin expansion. The EBIT margin is projected to climb to 25.02% from 23.45% in the prior quarter. This improvement is attributed to factors such as rupee depreciation, operational efficiencies, and headcount rationalization. However, this comes against the backdrop of increased costs from recent wage hikes for junior employees and potential furloughs, which analysts have factored into their estimates.
Key Challenges and Watchpoints
Growth in constant currency terms is expected to show a slight decline, around 2.18%, signaling continued pressure on underlying business momentum. The significant ramp-down of the BSNL project continues to cast a shadow, and investors will be keenly watching for updates on any potential future ramp-up. Attrition rates remain a closely monitored metric, projected at 7.6% over the past twelve months, with the company's total headcount standing at 597,093.
Analyst Perspectives
Various financial institutions have shared their expectations, with a common theme emerging around modest constant currency growth. Investec anticipates a turnaround in the communications, media, and entertainment sector, while Jefferies projects deal wins in the $7 billion to $9 billion range, boosted by international markets. Severance costs related to restructuring are also expected to be a one-off item. UBS and Nuvama echoed concerns about BSNL's impact and noted margin pressures from wage hikes, albeit with potential offsets from currency movements.
