Vodafone Idea Share Price Hits 52-Week High on AGR Relief Buzz

Vodafone Idea share price soared to a fresh 52-week high today, December 31, amid growing optimism around a potential government relief on AGR dues. Investors were watching closely as the stock surged over 2% in early trading, highlighting renewed market interest in the debt-laden telecom operator.

Market Performance Today

• Vodafone Idea shares opened at Rs 12.36, marking the highest level in the past 52 weeks.
• The stock has rallied sharply from its 52-week low of Rs 6.12 in August, more than doubling in just four months.
• Over the last month, the stock has gained around 25%, while the six-month performance shows a 66% jump.
• The company’s current market capitalization stands near Rs 1.34 lakh crore.

The sharp upside reflects heightened expectations of government intervention on AGR dues, which has long weighed on Vodafone Idea’s financials.

AGR Relief in Focus

Vodafone Idea has been under pressure due to its adjusted gross revenue (AGR) dues, estimated at ~Rs 78,000 crore (~$8.7 billion) in Q2FY26. Annual payments of nearly Rs 18,000 crore are scheduled from March 2025, making debt management critical for the operator.

Several media reports indicate that the Union Cabinet is likely to review Vodafone Idea’s AGR relief today, focusing on:

• Partial waiver of interest
• Reduction or waiver of penalties and interest on penalties

This step could ease the company’s long-standing financial burden. Weeks ago, the Supreme Court allowed the government to reassess all dues, including interest and penalties, up to FY17, which was considered a significant relief for the telecom major.

Company Overview

Vodafone Idea is one of India’s largest telecom operators:

• Subscribers: ~198 million
• Employees: ~18,000
• Government stake: ~49% after converting Rs 36,950 crore of dues into equity in March 2025
• Historical stake acquisition: The Centre picked up 33% stake in 2023 against statutory dues of over Rs 16,000 crore

The company has faced significant financial stress over the years, prompting government support to maintain operations and subscriber services.

Vodafone Idea Share Price History

• 52-week low: Rs 6.12 (August 2025)
• Current high: Rs 12.36 (December 31, 2025)
• 1-month gain: ~25%
• 6-month gain: ~66%

The stock’s strong recovery reflects market sentiment driven by AGR relief hopes, signaling a potential turnaround for the debt-ridden operator.

Summary

Vodafone Idea shares closed the year on a strong note, hitting a 52-week high of Rs 12.36. Optimism over AGR relief has rejuvenated investor confidence, after months of financial stress. With the government potentially offering partial waiver on interest and penalties, the telecom operator could see some much-needed breathing space.

For investors tracking stock market today, Vodafone Idea’s performance is a clear example of how regulatory actions can swiftly influence market movements. The company’s journey from Rs 6.12 in August to Rs 12.36 now demonstrates resilience and the power of market sentiment in India’s telecom sector.

Source: Moneycontrol