Grameenphone Delivers Stable Q1 Despite Revenue Dip

The country’s leading telecom operator Grameenphone reported revenue of Tk 3,758 crore in the first quarter of 2026, marking a 2 percent decline compared to the same period last year. The company attributed the drop to prevailing macroeconomic challenges.

At the end of the quarter, Grameenphone’s total subscriber base stood at 8 crore 42 lakh. Of these, 58.4 percent—approximately 4 crore 92 lakh users—are using internet services, reflecting the operator’s continued data-driven growth trajectory.

Speaking on Thursday, 23 April, Grameenphone Chief Executive Officer Yasir Azman said that despite multidimensional external challenges, the company has maintained stable performance and retained an EBITDA margin of around 58 percent. He added that long-term investments in network, IT, spectrum, and AI-driven operations are ongoing, which will help build a more efficient and scalable digital operating model in the future.

He further noted that, with the goal of becoming an AI-first telecom company, the organization has launched the “AI and I” initiative, under which multiple AI-based solutions are being introduced across network and operations. He also expressed optimism that the recent acquisition of 700 MHz spectrum will enhance rural coverage and improve indoor network quality.

Meanwhile, Grameenphone Chief Financial Officer Otto Magne Risbak stated that the company recorded a net profit of Tk 662 crore in the first quarter, up 4.4 percent year-on-year. The net profit margin stood at 17.6 percent. He said that despite a slight decline in revenue, the growth was driven by cost control, lower depreciation expenses, and reduced financial costs.

Positive growth in the data segment has continued. Active data users increased by 1.7 percent to reach 4 crore 92 lakh, while average data usage rose by 5.4 percent to approximately 7.7 GB. At the same time, operating expenses decreased by 2 percent and the cost of goods sold declined by 7.3 percent, indicating improved overall cost management.

Overall, despite some pressure on revenue, Grameenphone maintained a stable financial and operational position in the first quarter through cost control, increased data usage, and strategic investments.

DBTech/IH/EK/OR