Online travel aggregator ixigo has reported a notable decline in consolidated net profit for the second quarter of the fiscal year 2025 (Q2 FY25), with earnings falling 51% to INR 13.08 crore, down from INR 26.70 crore in the same period last year. This sharp decrease has raised concerns among investors, especially given the backdrop of increased operational revenues.
One of the primary factors contributing to this significant decline in net profit is a steep rise in the company’s tax expenses. During the quarter under review, ixigo recorded total tax expenses of INR 5.26 crore, a substantial increase from nearly nil in the corresponding quarter last year. This drastic change in tax liabilities has directly impacted the bottom line, overshadowing the company’s revenue growth and raising questions about its profitability strategy.
Despite the challenges faced in profit margins, ixigo experienced a commendable 26% growth in revenue from operations, which climbed to INR 206.47 crore in Q2 FY25, compared to INR 163.91 crore in the same quarter of the previous fiscal year. This revenue growth indicates a strong demand for ixigo’s services and suggests that the company is effectively expanding its market presence, tapping into the recovery of the travel sector post-pandemic.
The profit before tax (PBT) also saw a decline, dropping 30% to INR 18.34 crore from INR 26.27 crore in the same quarter last year. This decrease in PBT reflects the operational challenges the company faces, which include not only increased tax expenses but also potentially rising operational costs as ixigo scales its services to meet growing consumer demand.
The travel sector has been undergoing significant transformation in recent years, driven by changing consumer behavior, technological advancements, and the ongoing recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. ixigo’s ability to navigate these dynamics effectively is crucial for sustaining its growth trajectory. The company has focused on enhancing user experience, expanding its offerings, and investing in technology to streamline operations. However, the balance between growth and profitability remains delicate.
Investors will be closely monitoring ixigo’s strategies in the coming quarters, particularly how it manages its tax liabilities and operational costs. The travel aggregator’s management will need to communicate effectively about their plans to address these challenges, especially as the competitive landscape in the travel industry continues to evolve.
In conclusion, while ixigo has demonstrated resilience and growth in revenue, the substantial decline in net profit due to increased tax expenses raises critical questions about its financial health and strategic direction. The company must find ways to optimize its operations and improve its profitability while maintaining the momentum of revenue growth. The next few quarters will be pivotal for ixigo as it seeks to balance these competing priorities and reassure stakeholders of its long-term viability in the competitive online travel marketplace.