3 Stocks to Watch During IPL 2026

#2 Bharat Airtel

Telecom player, Bharti Airtel can leverage the IPL 2026 season as a massive volume driver for its high-margin data services. As millions of fans stream live matches in 4K resolution on mobile devices, the company sees a significant spike in daily data consumption, often requiring users to purchase specialized "Cricket" top-up vouchers.

This surge accelerates the transition of customers from 4G to 5G plans, effectively boosting the Average Revenue Per User. Airtel's digital ecosystem, including its Xstream platform and Wynk Music, gains higher engagement through match-day content and cross-promotions, strengthening customer retention and brand loyalty during this high-visibility period.

Financial Highlights of Bharti Airtel

On the financial front, Q3 FY26 revenue from operations grew to Rs 539,816 m from Rs 451,293 m YoY. Net profit dropped to Rs 83,865 m from Rs 144,749 m YoY.

Bharti Airtel's prospects are anchored by its premiumisation strategy and aggressive 5G monetisation. With the industry's highest Average Revenue Per User (ARPU), the company aims for a higher target through tariff hikes and higher data consumption.

#3 Jubilant FoodWorks

Next on our list is the stock of Jubilant FoodWorks.

Jubilant FoodWorks operates a mix of global franchise brands and its own brands. The global franchise brands include Domino's Pizza, Popeyes and Dunkin', while in-house brands include Hong's Kitchen, Ekdum! (smaller presence) and ChefBoss.

Jubilant FoodWorks benefits from the IPL through a sharp rise in food delivery demand during match hours. With people watching games at home, pizza orders increase significantly, especially for group viewing. Frequent matches encourage repeat ordering, boosting same-store sales.

The company leverages IPL with combo offers and discounts, driving higher volumes. Its strong digital ordering platform further amplifies sales as consumers prefer quick app-based ordering.

Overall, IPL acts as a seasonal demand catalyst, increasing revenues, average order value, and customer engagement for Jubilant FoodWorks.

Financial Highlights FY23-25

On the financial front, in Q3 FY26, Jubilant FoodWorks reported consolidated net sales of Rs 24,372 m against Rs 21,508 m in the corresponding period of last year. Net profits for Q3 FY26 was Rs 722 m against Rs 499 m YoY.

Jubilant FoodWorks has strong long-term growth prospects driven by India's expanding food delivery market and aggressive expansion strategy. The company targets 15% revenue growth with steady same-store sales and rapid store additions across cities.

Conclusion

IPL-related companies receive a seasonal boost, but it's often temporary.

Also, short-term rallies rarely sustain valuations in the long-term. Focus on fundamentals: non-IPL revenue growth, operating margins, and cash flow. If a company's annual success relies solely on one event, it could be a red flag.

Investors should evaluate the company's fundamentals, corporate governance, and valuations of the stock as key factors when conducting due diligence before making investment decisions.

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