For a developing country like India, the cement industry indeed works like the building blocks. Be it transport, power supply, dams, roads, or infrastructure, cement is one of the most important materials. With infrastructure development being the demand driver for the cement industry, the cement industry is responsible for offering employment to millions across the country. A direct correlation with the GDP, the cement industry also drives other sectors such as real estate, government programs, urban and rural infrastructure spending etc.
Overview of the Cement Industry in India
Being the world’s second-largest cement producer, the cement industry in India accounts for over 8% of the global installed capacity. In the financial year 2023-24, the cement production in the country reached a mammoth 374.55 million tonnes. With a projected CAGR of 4.7% from 2024 to 2032, the production may touch 5.99 billion tonnes.1
Why Invest in Cement Industry Stocks?
With infrastructure development listed as one of the 9 priorities by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharam in the Union Budget 2024, the cement industry is sure to attract domestic as well as international investors. If you are someone who wants to cash in on the rising demand and are looking for some of the best cement stocks in India, you are at the right place. Read on as we share with you the nitty-gritty of why invest in cement industry stocks.
Popular Cement Stocks
The following table gives an idea of the popular players in the cement industry in India. Take a look:
Name of the Company
| Market Cap in (Crores)
| Dividend Yield Per Annum
| Share
Price
| CAGR
|
ACC Ltd
| 47,869
| 0.37 %
| 2,549
| 43%
|
Ambuja Cements Ltd
| 1,26,833
| 0.40 %
| 639
| 59%
|
Dalmia Bharat Ltd
| 36,014
| 0.47 %
| 1,921
| N/A
|
Grasim Industries Ltd
| 1,59,606
| 0.42%
| 2,386
| 39%
|
J K Cements Ltd
| 31,359
| 0.37 %
| 4,058
| 36%
|
Nuvoco Vistas Corporation Ltd
| 12,150
| 0.00 %
| 340
| 3%
|
RHI Magnesita Ltd
| 13,296
| 0.39 %
| 644
| -1%
|
Shree Cements Ltd
| 87,118
| 0.41 %
| 24,245
| -1 %
|
The Ramco Cements Ltd
| 18,880
| 0.25 %
| 799
| 8%
|
UltraTech Cement Ltd
| 2,87,671
| 0.47 %
| 9,964
| 16%
|
Factors to Consider When Investing in Cement Stocks
An investor eyeing cement stocks must keep in mind these relevant factors to mitigate their way through market movements:
Market Demand
Understanding the market demand for cement in a developing country like India is simple. The focus on infrastructure projects will push the market demand for cement thus raising cement stock value in the market, as well. Relying on government and private initiatives for further infrastructure projects can help determine the market value of cement stocks.
Financial Performance
The cement industry in India has shown a positive trend in this decade. For instance, in April 2022, cement prices rose by 7%. An investor can research to find companies that are performing well in the stock market with lower costs and higher profit margins. 2
Supply Chain and Raw Material
The increase in costs for raw materials restricts the supply chain and lowers the profit margin. Keeping an eye on raw materials like limestone and silicone can be useful in determining the future of cement stock value.
Future Proof Methods
Cement companies need to rely on tech-advance and environment-friendly methods to operate. So, companies who are already making a shift and taking steps for future-proof methods can show promising results.
Risks Associated with Cement Industry Investments
Stocks of sectors operating in the stock market come with their set of risks and as an investor, it is crucial to learn about them to create reliable risk management strategies.
The biggest risk associated with cement industry stocks stems from sustainability questions. The regulatory transitions to make the industry sustainable by following environment-friendly methods are expected to impact even the big players.
Secondly, companies that fail to adapt to technological advancements might stand on a lower footing with their stock values declining evidently.
Conclusion
The trends in the stock market for cement industry stocks have been showing positive margins for investors. With the budget announcement emphasising infrastructural developments all across the country, experts are predicting an increase in cement stock values. However, as an investor, it goes without saying that nothing beats due diligence. Make sure to stay on top of cement industry updates, news and events before making your call to invest.
Disclaimer: Investments in the securities market are subject to market risk, read all related documents carefully before investing.
This content is for educational purposes only. Securities quoted are exemplary and not recommendatory.
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