TCS Q2 FY26: Broad-based Gains, Margin Edge and Bold AI Bets Amid Soft Growth
TCS posted a steady but not standout quarter: revenue inched up, profit improved slightly and margins strengthened, even as the company began pressing ahead with a long-term AI-focused investment plan. Revenue from operations came in at ₹65,799 crore, while consolidated net profit stood at ₹12,075 crore (+1.4% YoY). Operating margin improved to 25.2%, showing disciplined cost management despite only moderate volume growth. The company also announced an interim dividend of ₹11 per share and unveiled plans for a 1-GW AI data centre, signalling its ambition to lead enterprise AI services over the coming years.
*Key Highlights*
* Revenue from operations: ₹65,799 crore, up +2.4% YoY (vs ₹64,259 crore in Q2 FY25)
* QoQ revenue growth: +3.7%; constant-currency growth: +0.8%
* Operating margin: 25.2%, up +70 bps QoQ
* Net profit (PAT): ₹12,075 crore, up +1.4% YoY
* Net margin: ~19.6%
* Cash flow from operations: ~110% of net income
* Dividend declared: ₹11 per share (interim)
* Total Contract Value (TCV): US$10 billion added in the quarter.
*Revenue & Profit Analysis*
TCS delivered modest but steady revenue growth: +2.4% YoY and +3.7% QoQ indicate the company is holding its ground in a rough global IT environment. Constant-currency growth of 0.8% also points to a gradual return of momentum after earlier currency-related pressures.
The standout metric this quarter is margin performance. Operating margin at 25.2% (up 70 bps QoQ) and a net margin close to 19.6% show tight cost control and better utilisation. Profit growth remains mild but positive.
Cash generation stayed strong too, with operating cash flow higher than net income, reinforcing the company’s balance-sheet strength.
*Segment & Business Mix Performance*
Growth in Q2 came from multiple verticals and geographies:
1. Vertical trends (CC QoQ):
* BFSI: +1.1%
* Life Sciences & Healthcare: +3.4%
* Manufacturing: +1.6%
* Technology & Services Solutions (TSS): +1.8%
2. Geography mix:
North America remains the largest market (nearly 48.8% of revenue) though growth continues to be soft. Europe, Asia-Pacific and MEA added to the overall momentum. The diversified performance helps cushion volatility in any one segment. The US$10 billion TCV also points to a healthy deal pipeline for the coming quarters.
*Cost, Restructuring & Risks to Monitor*
This quarter included a one-time restructuring charge of ₹1,135 crore related to organisational changes and employee optimisation. Adjusted for this charge, underlying profitability would have been stronger. However, global macro uncertainty, muted spending in certain verticals and pressure on large discretionary IT deals continue to act as potential headwinds for faster revenue growth.
*Strategic Moves & Management Commentary*
TCS is clearly positioning itself for long-term, AI-led transformation. It announced plans to build a 1-GW AI data centre in India, signalling intent to scale AI-driven enterprise solutions. The acquisition of Salesforce specialist ListEngage strengthens its cloud, CRM and digital transformation capabilities.
Management highlighted continued investments in people, technology infrastructure and partnerships as demand for cloud, data and AI solutions continues to rise.
*Conclusion*
Q2 FY26 reflects a stable, well-run TCS: growth is moderate, margins have edged up and cash flows remain strong. Net profit rose +1.4%, supported by disciplined cost controls. The long-term bet on AI infrastructure and digital capabilities could become a major growth engine, though near-term acceleration may still depend on a revival in global tech spending and quicker deal conversions.
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