Bharti Hexacom: A new contender in the Indian telecom industry

Introduction 

The Indian Telecom industry, one of the fastest-growing sectors in the world, is currently undergoing a significant transformation. With the advent of digital technologies and the increasing penetration of smartphones, the telecom landscape in India has evolved dramatically. The industry is marked by intense competition, regulatory challenges, and rapid technological advancements. Amidst this dynamic environment, Bharti Hexacom, a subsidiary of Bharti Airtel, is making its mark.

As of the first half of Fiscal 2024, wireless services dominate, accounting for 97.4% of total telecom customers. The sector’s oligopolistic nature, led by giants like Reliance Jio, Airtel, and Vodafone Idea, underscores the challenges for new entrants, emphasizing the importance of economies of scale.

Despite hurdles, India’s telecom market exhibits growth potential, driven by under-penetration, economic expansion, and the need for improved telecom tariffs in alignment with global peers. As Bharti Hexacom navigates this landscape, its strategic positioning and operational efficiency become paramount for sustained success in this dynamic industry.

Bharti Hexacom (Airtel): A Regional Powerhouse in Northeast India 

In the Northeast telecom landscape, Bharti Hexacom, a subsidiary of Airtel, has emerged as a dominant force, commanding a robust Revenue Market Share (RMS) of 52.1% in the first half of Fiscal 2024. This signifies a notable ascent from 44.6% in Fiscal 2014, showcasing sustained leadership in the region. The consolidation trend is evident, with the combined Customer Market Share (CMS) of Bharti Hexacom and Reliance Jio exceeding 80%, surpassing the national average.

Financially, Bharti Hexacom exhibits resilience and growth, witnessing an impressive 6.3% CAGR in the Northeast circle’s gross revenue between Fiscals 2014 and 2023, reaching Rs 29.6 billion. Projections indicate a promising 6-7% CAGR in revenue from Fiscals 2023 to 2028, supported by increased teledensity, higher internet penetration, and potential ARPU escalation.

Strategically, the company focuses on premiumizing its services, resulting in an augmented ARPU from Rs 135 in Fiscal 2021 to Rs 195 for the six months ended September 30, 2023. Bharti Hexacom’s distribution network spans 617 distributors and 88,586 retail touchpoints, contributing to its leadership position.

With Airtel as its majority stakeholder, Bharti Hexacom benefits from extensive digital infrastructure, enabling a prudent capital structure. As of September 30, 2023, the company’s capital expenditure stood at Rs 1,226 crore reflecting 35.85% of revenue from operations.

Bharti Hexacom’s success in the North East circle, coupled with its continuous ARPU growth, robust network infrastructure, and strategic partnerships, positions it as a formidable player, navigating the complexities of the evolving telecom landscape in India.

Bharti Hexacom’s Competitive Strengths

Bharti Hexacom, operating in the Rajasthan and North East telecommunication circles in India, boasts a robust market position with a large customer base of 2.91 crore as of September 30, 2023. The company’s strategic focus on acquiring and retaining high-value customers through competitive pricing and superior services has propelled its growth.

With an emphasis on digital infrastructure investments and collaborations with Airtel, Bharti Hexacom has consistently increased its Average Revenue Per User (ARPU) and market share, outperforming competitors in its circles.

Additionally, Bharti Hexacom’s future-ready network, leveraging digital tools and data science, contributes to network efficiency, cost optimization, and environmental friendliness. The company’s focus on an extensive distribution and service network, including exclusive retail touchpoints and digital distribution channels, reinforces its customer acquisition and engagement strategy.

Network Infrastructure

Bharti Hexacom relies on a robust network infrastructure, encompassing a combination of owned and leased assets, boasting a total of 23,748 network towers as of September 30, 2023. Within this count, the company owns 5,005 towers. Notably, Airtel, as of the same date, maintains 295,318 network towers, enabling Bharti Hexacom’s customers to access them not only within its operational circles but also across all other circles in India. These towers serve as essential components of a wireless telecommunications infrastructure network, comprising structures, shelters, industrial air conditioners, diesel generators, batteries, switch mode power supplies, and voltage stabilizers.

Bharti Hexacom’s network partners play crucial roles, including active network partners supplying, implementing, integrating, and deploying the mobile network, passive infrastructure services partners providing and maintaining passive infrastructure at various sites, and IT partners delivering services related to customer-facing and internal IT requirements.

Future Prospects 

Looking ahead, Bharti Hexacom is well-positioned to capitalize on the growth opportunities in the Indian telecom market. The company’s strong financial position, coupled with its strategic initiatives, provides a solid foundation for future growth.

The company plans to leverage its strengths to expand its customer base, enhance its service offerings, and drive revenue growth. Furthermore, the company’s focus on digital transformation and innovation will enable it to stay ahead of the curve in the rapidly evolving telecom landscape.

Conclusion 

In conclusion, Bharti Hexacom emerges as a resilient contender in the dynamic landscape of the Indian telecom industry, showcasing substantial growth and strategic positioning. As a subsidiary of Bharti Airtel, the company leverages its robust digital infrastructure and collaborations to navigate the challenges of a highly competitive market. With a dominant presence in the Northeast, Bharti Hexacom demonstrates impressive Revenue Market Share (RMS) growth and financial resilience.

Strategic initiatives, such as premiumizing services, expanding distribution networks, and investing in digital tools, contribute to sustained Average Revenue Per User (ARPU) growth and market leadership. The company’s commitment to network efficiency, environmental friendliness, and strong partnerships further solidifies its stance.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. It is based on several secondary sources on the internet and is subject to changes. Please consult an expert before making related decisions.