Axiata's Q1 earnings more than double to RM160mil

New Straits Times

28-05-2025

KUALA LUMPUR: Axiata Group Bhd posted a strong set of results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2025 (1QFY2025), with net profit more than doubling to RM159.8 million from RM60.03 million a year earlier.
This was underpinned by merger synergies, lower depreciation and amortisation expenses, favourable foreign exchange (Forex) movements and a higher profit contribution from CelcomDigi Bhd.
However, its revenue fell 11.3 per cent to RM5.09 billion, weighed down by the depreciation of the Indonesian rupiah and Bangladeshi taka.
The improved bottom line was also supported by reduced impairment charges, lower marketing and promotional spending, and net forex gains amounting to RM28.4 million.
In a statement, the group noted that all of its telecommunications units except XLSmart, contributed to earnings growth, alongside continued momentum from CelcomDigi.
"Underlying net profit was impacted by one-off losses, without which it would have recorded a 7.4 per cent growth," it said.
Chairman Tan Sri Shahril Ridza Ridzuan said the results demonstrate Axiata's ability to adapt, integrate and grow amid a volatile macroeconomic environment.
"With a solid financial footing, strategic clarity and strong leadership across our markets, we are laying the groundwork for enduring relevance in Southeast and South Asia's digital future.
"The board remains focused on ensuring governance strength, strategic discipline and long-term resilience as we continue to shape the next chapter of the group," he added.
Axiata's basic earnings per share rose to 1.7 sen in 1QFY2025 from 0.7 sen in the corresponding quarter last year.
Axiata said both of its jointly controlled entities are progressing well in their integration efforts, with synergy realisation on track.
CelcomDigi is expected to generate RM700 million in annual run-rate synergies by 2027, while XLSmart is targeting annual pre-tax synergies of between US$300 million (RM1.27 billion) and US$400 million within the same period.
The group is actively monetising its infrastructure assets, including Link Net and Edotco Group, as part of its strategy to attract capital investment and pare down debt.
Axiata's frontier market operations - Robi Axiata Ltd, Dialog Axiata PLC and Smart Axiata - continued to demonstrate resilience, posting strong profit growth and positive cash flow despite ongoing market volatility.