Shares of Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL) rose around 2% in an otherwise weak market on April 30 after the company reported better-than-expected March quarter (Q4 FY26) earnings, led by strong volume growth and resilient operational performance. The stock was trading at ₹2,357, up ₹42.60 or 1.84% on the NSE, even as broader indices remained under pressure.
The positive reaction was driven by HUL’s underlying volume growth (UVG), which came in at 6% for the quarter, beating analyst expectations of 4–5%. The strong volume-led growth signals improving demand conditions, particularly in core FMCG categories.
For Q4 FY26, the company reported an 8% year-on-year rise in consolidated revenue to ₹16,207 crore, while underlying sales growth (USG) stood at 7%. EBITDA grew 6% year-on-year to ₹3,841 crore, with margins improving sequentially by 40 basis points to 23.7%.
Profit after tax before exceptional items (PAT bei) came in at ₹2,711 crore, up 4% year-on-year. Reported profit after tax rose 20% to ₹3,002 crore, aided by exceptional gains during the quarter.
The quarter marked HUL’s strongest growth in the last 12 quarters, supported by broad-based performance across segments. Home Care delivered 9% growth, while Beauty & Wellbeing grew 8%, driven by strong traction in hair care and premium segments. Personal Care and Foods segments reported steady growth of 5% each, with continued momentum in lifestyle nutrition and coffee categories.
The company’s performance was seen as better than overall Street expectations, particularly on volume growth and margin resilience, which helped drive the stock higher despite a weak broader market backdrop.
Management highlighted that demand conditions have improved gradually, supported by macroeconomic stability, while the company continues to focus on premiumisation, distribution expansion, and operational efficiencies to sustain growth momentum
About the company:
Hindustan Unilever Limited is India’s largest fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) company, with a diversified portfolio spanning home care, personal care, foods, and beverages. The company has a strong distribution network and leading brands across categories, making it a key proxy for consumption trends in India.