Mumbai: DB Corp Ltd., a print media company and publisher of flagship dailies such as Dainik Bhaskar, Divya Bhaskar, and Divya Marathi, announced its Q1 FY26 results, showcasing stable core performance amid a high base effect from last year’s election-led advertising surge.
In Q1 FY26, the company reported total revenue of ₹5,872 million, marking a 4.7% decline compared to Q1 FY25. Advertising revenue stood at ₹3,978 million, down 7% year-on-year; however, on a like-to-like basis, it registered high single-digit growth. Circulation revenue showed a marginal increase of 1%, reaching ₹1,203 million. EBITDA declined significantly by 27.5% to ₹1,384 million. Consequently, net profit fell to ₹808 million from ₹1,179 million in the same quarter last year.
Despite the reported decline in advertising revenue, EBITDA margins for the print business rose sharply to 31%, aided by soft newsprint prices and cost efficiencies. The average newsprint cost for the quarter dropped to ₹47,100/tonne.
Digital Business Momentum:
Dainik Bhaskar’s news apps saw Monthly Active Users (MAUs) rise to approximately 22 million in May 2025, up from 2 million in January 2020. The group’s strong focus on hyperlocal, premium content and mobile-first design has positioned it as the #1 Indian language phygital news platform.
Commenting on the performance, Sudhir Agarwal, Managing Director, DB Corp Ltd., said, “Despite a high base effect from last year’s general elections, which had driven a temporary surge in advertising revenues, our core performance remained steady – supported by stable advertising trends, soft newsprint prices, and disciplined cost structures. Our digital business continues to scale rapidly, with Monthly Active Users reaching the 22 million mark this quarter – reinforcing our position as India’s leading Indian language news app platform.”
“We believe the Government’s continued focus on enhancing disposable incomes through income tax rationalisation, softening of interest rates, and the anticipated implementation of the 8th Pay Commission later this fiscal, will further stimulate economic activity, particularly across Tier II and beyond markets. This is expected to provide a strong tailwind to Bharat’s consumption story. Backed by editorial strength, hyperlocal relevance, and continuous product innovation, we remain confident in our ability to drive sustainable growth across both print and digital platforms, while delivering long-term value to all stakeholders.”
Radio Business (MY FM):
- Ad Revenue: ₹392 million (↑1.2%)
- EBITDA: ₹115 million
MY FM won 8 awards at the Radio and Music India Audio Summit and launched new initiatives like Comedy Punchayat, India’s first on-air stand-up comedy format.
Editorial and CSR Impact:
DB Corp maintained its editorial leadership with standout coverage of events such as the Pahalgam terror attack, the Ahmedabad plane crash, and investigative exposes on railway and healthcare scams. CSR campaigns like Ek Ped Ek Zindagi and Save Birds saw significant public participation, digital traction, and recognition at the INMA Global Media Awards.
With a strong phygital footprint, robust user growth, and editorial trust, DB Corp remains confident in driving long-term value across print and digital formats, especially as Tier II and III markets continue to drive India’s consumption story.
