WPP India forecasts H2 growth after H1 dip linked to sporting event timing

WPP plc reported that its India business posted a 2.9% like‑for‑like decline in revenue less pass‑through costs in the first half of 2026. The drop was attributed to the timing of a major sporting event, which the company said created temporary volatility. Chief Executive Cindy Rose and CFO Joanne Wilson said the trend was moderating and that the business is expected to return to growth in the second half of the year.

Across the Asia‑Pacific region, overall revenue fell 3.8% in H1, with Australia down 4.7% and China showing growth of 2.6% in H1 and a sharp 15.6% increase in Q2. WPP retained key client Reckitt in India and highlighted other global retentions such as Tesco, Huawei, L’Oréal and Toyota. Globally, WPP’s first‑half revenue declined 4.4% year‑on‑year, but the rate of decline improved in Q2, especially within its Media division.