Bharti Airtel's stock has recently achieved a significant milestone, crossing the ₹2,000 mark for the first time and hitting a new all-time high of ₹2,009 per share on June 26, 2025. This surge reflects strong investor confidence and positions Bharti Airtel as one of the top turnaround champions of 2025, with a 27% gain in under four months, outperforming the BSE Sensex which rose 6%. The company's market capitalization also saw a boost, reaching ₹11.5 lakh crore during the session, and a combined market cap of Bharti Airtel and its partly paid shares touched ₹12 trillion.

Several factors are contributing to this positive momentum. Brokerage firms are largely bullish on the stock. Jefferies reiterated its 'Buy' rating with a target price of ₹2,370, highlighting Airtel as the best way to play the ongoing consumption story in India, noting a significant runway for mid-teens revenue growth, a structural decline in capital expenditure intensity improving cash flows, return ratios and attractive valuations. Macquarie also maintains a bullish outlook, raising its target price to ₹2,050 per share and including Bharti Airtel in its “India Super 6s” list, adopting a scenario-weighted valuation approach.

Bharti Airtel's financial performance has been robust, reinforcing investor confidence. In the fourth quarter of FY25, the company reported a 27.6% year-on-year increase in revenue, reaching ₹48,362 crore. Annual net sales increased by 14.59%, and operating profit surged by 40.18%, demonstrating efficient cost control and improved margins. The operating profit-to-interest ratio stands at 4.91, signaling strong debt-servicing ability and a healthy balance sheet. The company's net profit saw a massive 503.2% jump to ₹12,476 crore, mainly due to a one-time tax benefit.

Bharti Airtel's dominant market position in the telecom sector further solidifies its investment appeal. With a market capitalization of ₹11,20,777 crore, it commands a dominant 82.57% of the sector's market cap, providing a strategic edge in capital access and market influence.

Given this backdrop, the question arises: Is it time to book profit or hold? While some investors may be tempted to book profits after such a significant rally, several factors suggest that holding onto Bharti Airtel shares may be the more prudent strategy.

Analysts' recommendations lean towards a 'Buy' stance, with many predicting further upside potential. Experts suggest a buy for a target of Rs 2,210 within 3-4 weeks, supported by positive technical indicators like RSI and MACD. The consensus appears to be that Bharti Airtel has the potential for further growth, driven by increasing digital adoption, 5G expansion, and strategic investments in infrastructure and innovation.

However, it's also important to acknowledge the potential risks. The telecom sector is highly competitive, with rivals like Reliance Jio and Vodafone Idea posing significant challenges. Regulatory changes and the need for substantial capital investment in 5G infrastructure could also impact Bharti Airtel's future performance.

For investors with a short-term outlook, booking partial profits might be a reasonable approach to secure some gains while retaining a position in the stock. However, for those with a long-term investment horizon, the current outlook suggests that holding Bharti Airtel shares could yield further rewards. The company's strong financial performance, dominant market position, and positive industry dynamics make a compelling case for continued growth in the coming years.

Ultimately, the decision to book profit or hold depends on individual risk tolerance, investment goals, and time horizon. Investors should carefully consider these factors and conduct their own due diligence before making any investment decisions.