Dialing for Dollars: Vi Posts ₹66B Loss, Eyes ₹20K Crore Rescue Plan

Vodafone Idea Ltd (Vi), India’s third-largest telecom operator, reported a consolidated net loss of ₹66.08 billion (₹6,608 crore) for the first quarter of FY26, underscoring the company’s ongoing financial challenges despite modest operational improvements. The results, released on August 13, reflect the uphill battle Vi continues to face as it seeks to stabilize its balance sheet, expand its network, and retain market relevance in a fiercely competitive telecom landscape.

 

Financial Snapshot: Q1 FY26

While the Q1 loss widened slightly compared to the previous quarter’s ₹6,609.3 crore, it marked an improvement from the ₹7,674.6 crore loss in the same period last year. The company attributed the narrowing year-on-year loss to tariff hikes and customer upgrades, which helped boost ARPU by 14.2%.

 

Operational Highlights

CEO Akshaya Moondra described Q1 as a “turnaround quarter,” citing the highest average daily revenue in five years. The company also reported:

However, Moondra acknowledged that Vi’s financial health remains fragile, and its ability to meet debt obligations hinges on successful fundraising and government support.

 

Fundraising Strategy

To address its mounting liabilities and fund capital expenditures estimated between ₹50,000 crore and ₹55,000 crore over the next few years, Vi’s board has approved a capital raise plan of up to ₹20,000 crore. The proposed fundraising will include:

The final strategy will be determined by the Capital Raising Committee, with shareholder and statutory approvals pending.

 

Government Stake and AGR Dues

Following the government’s decision to convert outstanding spectrum dues into equity, its stake in Vodafone Idea has increased to 49%, while the promoter group retains operational control with a 25.6% share.

 

Despite this support, Vi continues to grapple with legacy dues related to Adjusted Gross Revenue (AGR). The Supreme Court recently dismissed a plea seeking relief on penalties and interest, leaving Vi with AGR obligations payable through FY2031.

 

Market Reaction

Vi’s shares closed 3.22% lower at ₹6.92 on the BSE following the earnings announcement. Investor sentiment remains cautious, with concerns over the company’s ability to raise funds and compete effectively against rivals Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel.

 

Industry Context

India’s telecom sector is undergoing rapid consolidation and digital transformation. While Vi has made strides in improving its ARPU and subscriber retention, its limited 5G rollout and constrained capital expenditure have left it lagging behind competitors.

 

Analysts suggest that unless Vi secures substantial funding and accelerates network expansion, its long-term viability may be at risk.

 

What’s Next?

Vodafone Idea’s immediate priorities include:

The next few quarters will be critical in determining whether Vi can reverse its financial trajectory and reclaim market share.

 

Sources: Money Control, CNBC TV18,  Vodafone Idea Limited