Data Analytics on Financial Performance of Public Sector Utility Corporations – A Study with Reference to Oil Sector in India

The Indian oil sector, particularly Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) like Indian Oil Corporation (IOCL), Bharat Petroleum Corporation (BPCL), and Hindustan Petroleum Corporation (HPCL), plays a key role in energy security and economic stability. This study examines the financial performance of these PSUs from 2014 to 2024, focusing on Earnings Per Share (EPS), Dividend Per Share (DPS), and Net Profit After Tax (PAT) to assess profitability and shareholder returns. The findings show fluctuations in financial performance, mainly due to global crude oil prices, economic downturns, and policy changes. The COVID-19 pandemic caused a sharp decline in profits in 2020, but a strong recovery in 2024 highlights sector resilience. BPCL and HPCL had higher EPS performance, while IOCL remained the most profitable. Dividend payouts reflected financial caution during downturns and strong recoveries afterward. Despite growing competition from private companies like Reliance and Nayara Energy, these PSUs retain 83% of the Indian oil market.