Singtel recorded a slightly lower net profit of S$1.03 billion in the second quarter of its financial year, compared to S$1.04 billion registered during the same period a year earlier. The group operator, which owns stakes in India's Bharti Airtel and Indonesia's Telkomsel, and Australia's Optus posted a 3% lower in its total revenue to S$4.18 billion, mainly due to the weakening of Australian Dollar.
Across the region, all of the Group’s mobile operations saw sustained adoption of data services and customer growth. The Group’s share of earnings from Telkomsel was particularly strong – up 21% – on the back of robust growth across voice, data and digital businesses. Pre-tax profits from its regional operations remained stable at S$632 million as a result of the weaker Indonesian Rupiah and significant fair value losses from Airtel.
In Australia, Optus gained further momentum in the quarter, posting strong revenue and postpaid handset customer growth. Mobile service revenue rose 3% with strong gains in ARPU and postpaid handset customers – the highest in over three years. Mobile data grew 21%, fuelled by strong 4G service offerings.
Chua Sock Koong, Singtel Group CEO
This quarter, we have again strengthened our position across Singapore, Australia and the associates’ markets. Mobile data growth continues to be a key focus. Our investments in 3G and 4G network infrastructure and spectrum, alongside increasing smartphone penetration, are delivering improved experiences for customers.
