India-Pakistan clash sends ad rates soaring 25%
Times of India
by ASMITA DEYFebruary 13, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
India's upcoming clash with Pakistan in the T20 World Cup has sent ad rates soaring by an estimated 25%. With both nations being cricketing arch-rivals, the highly anticipated match is expected to draw massive viewership, prompting companies to rush for advertising slots. TV ad rates for a 10-second slot have jumped from Rs 20-25 lakh to Rs 30-40 lakh, while digital ads on platforms like JioHotstar have spiked to Rs 15-20 lakh per 10 seconds. This surge in demand has led experts to compare the ad rates to the price of precious metals like gold and silver.
The heightened interest in advertising reflects the strategic importance of capturing the attention of millions of cricket fans globally. Companies from diverse sectors, including auto, FMCG, financial services, and real estate, are vying for ad space, with no holds barred on spending. Analysts predict that broadcaster JioStar could rake in over Rs 2,000 crore in ad revenues from the tournament. The India-Pakistan match is seen as a golden opportunity to connect with fans, driving brands to invest heavily despite the premium prices.
Beyond advertising, the buzz around the match has also fueled demand for travel and hospitality services. Airfares to Colombo, Sri Lanka’s capital, have surged by up to 45-50% on high-demand routes from major Indian cities. Hotel bookings in the city are up nearly 65%, with premium properties commanding a 20-25% increase in room rates. Visa-free access and ease of travel have further contributed to this surge, particularly among Indian cricket enthusiasts.
The India-Pakistan clash is not just a sports event but a cultural and economic phenomenon. It highlights the commercial power of high-stakes cricket matches and their ability to drive unprecedented demand across
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Originally published on Times of India on 2/13/2026