Country’s largest mobile network operator, Grameenphone, reported a decline in second-quarter revenue as persistent economic pressures weighed on consumer spending, although the company maintained strong profitability and continued investing in its network, it said.
The telecom operator posted revenue of Tk 39.8 billion for the three months to June 2026, down 3.0% year-on-year, citing a challenging macroeconomic environment. However, revenue increased by 6% compared with the previous quarter, signalling a recovery in underlying business momentum.
Grameenphone ended the quarter with 86.3 million subscribers, returning to customer growth, while 52.7 million users—equivalent to 61.1% of its customer base—were active internet subscribers.
Grameenphone Chief Executive Officer Yasir Azman said the company had maintained a robust EBITDA margin of around 58%, reflecting disciplined cost management despite continued investment in network expansion and technology.
During the quarter, Grameenphone completed the rollout of its 700 MHz spectrum across more than 1,000 sites nationwide, a move aimed at improving network coverage and capacity.
The company said the resilience of its network was demonstrated during the FIFA World Cup, when it handled the highest mobile data traffic in its history during the Argentina versus Austria match, processing more than twice its normal traffic while maintaining service quality.
Beyond network investment, Azman highlighted the operator’s digital inclusion and cybersecurity initiatives, including a partnership with UNICEF to integrate online safety education into Bangladesh’s national curriculum and the continued expansion of its GP Shield cybersecurity services for consumers and businesses.
Looking ahead, the chief executive said Grameenphone would continue focusing on operational efficiencies through artificial intelligence, automation and digital transformation while maintaining investment in network modernisation, digital platforms and strategic partnerships.
Chief Financial Officer Otto Magne Risbakk said inflation remained elevated at around 9.2%, but the company’s cost-control measures had limited total cost growth to 1.8% year-on-year, despite continued spending on network and IT infrastructure.
While EBITDA declined 6.1% from a year earlier because of softer revenue, the company maintained its 58% margin, underscoring the effectiveness of its cost discipline. Net profit after tax also improved compared with each of the previous three quarters.
Grameenphone’s board declared an interim dividend of Tk 10.50 per share for the first half of 2026, representing a 100% payout ratio. Risbakk said the company continued to generate strong cash flows, maintained a debt-free balance sheet and remained committed to balancing shareholder returns with long-term investment.