The reality of Tata Group – Few companies making money, others less so

Tata Group Chairman Cyrus Mistry wants to groom more industry leaders within the group who can drive profitability for the respective Tata group companies. This strategy is expected to offer long-term results. As of now, 80% of the group’s profits are from 20% of its companies like Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), Tata Steel and Tata Motors. Mistry wants to change that.

The gains of Tata Sons trebled to Rs 9,062 crore in FY15. However, the total profit grew a mere 5% to Rs 19,180 Crores. This reflects the dividend income of Tata Sons and that of the subsidiaries.

Overseas revenue constituted 68% of the profits. The sluggish growth is mainly due to the slack performance of some of its subsidiaries. Even as TCS posted 3.6% growth in net profit for FY15, Tata Motors posted no growth and Tata Steel actually incurred a loss of Rs 3,925 Crores.

The truth is that while the Tata Group owns over 100 companies, the group receives most of its profit from two companies. Of the top 10 most profitable companies, TCS and Tata Motors account for over 90% share.

"We do not comment on the financials of Tata Sons," a group spokesperson said.

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