As April unfolds, it not only marks the beginning of a fresh financial year but also signals the onset of the highly anticipated Q4 earnings season. This period is especially crucial for investors, as the results from leading tech firms will set the tone for the weeks ahead. Over the next 20 days, several financial giants are set to disclose their earnings, and here’s what you need to keep an eye on.
Key Tech Earnings to Monitor
The spotlight is firmly on the technology sector as these reports will kick off the earnings frenzy.
TCS: A Look Ahead
Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) is gearing up to unveil its Q4 earnings report on April 10. Investors are keenly awaiting the numbers, especially as TCS might also announce an interim dividend to reward its shareholders. There has been buzz surrounding TCS, particularly regarding its plans to increase employee salaries. A critical area to watch will be the company’s discretionary spending and the order pipeline, which will provide insights into the current demand landscape.
Infosys: What to Expect
Another major player, Infosys, is scheduled to release its Q4 earnings on April 17. The board may also deliberate on declaring a dividend alongside the results. Recently, Infosys shares have faced some pressure, particularly following Accenture’s revision of its revenue forecasts. However, unlike Accenture, Infosys is not reliant on U.S. government contracts, which could play to its advantage. Investors will closely monitor the guidance provided by Infosys, as it will serve as a key indicator of future performance.
Banking Sector Highlights
HDFC Bank: Earnings Insights
On April 19, HDFC Bank will announce its Q4 results, and the focus will be on loan growth, margins, and the status of non-performing assets (NPAs). The bank’s share price has garnered attention, with several international brokerages expressing confidence in its strong fundamentals. Notably, Jefferies’ Chris Wood has adjusted his portfolio to increase his stake in HDFC Bank, highlighting its promising outlook.
ICICI Bank: A Busy Day
Also on April 19, ICICI Bank, the second-largest private sector bank in India, will release its earnings. Analysts from firms like CLSA have shown a preference for ICICI Bank, making its loan growth, net interest margins (NIMs), and net interest income (NII) crucial metrics to watch as the bank prepares to announce its Q4 results.
More Earnings on the Horizon
HCL Tech: Innovations Ahead
Following the tech giants, HCL Tech will share its Q4 results on April 22. During its previous quarterly announcement, the management emphasized its readiness to leverage AI-driven transformations for growth. Investors will be particularly interested in any specific updates regarding this strategic direction, as well as potential interim dividend announcements following last January’s dividend of Rs 12 per share.
FMCG Giants: HUL and Nestlé
Moving to the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector, Hindustan Unilever (HUL) will declare its Q4 earnings on April 24. The market will be watching for signs of margin pressures and trends in urban consumption, especially following a recent government push for rural revival. HUL’s board is also expected to consider a final dividend. On the same day, Nestlé is set to release its earnings, making it a crucial day for FMCG investors.
L&T Tech and MphasiS: Tech Earnings
Also on April 24, L&T Tech and MphasiS will announce their Q4 results, with a focus on discretionary spending as a key indicator of their performance.
UltraTech Cement: A New Venture
Lastly, UltraTech Cement is scheduled to report its earnings on April 28. The company has recently attracted attention for diversifying into the cable and wire business, making this earnings announcement one to watch closely.
As we approach this pivotal earnings season, staying updated on these key announcements will be essential for investors seeking to navigate the financial landscape effectively.