UltraTech cements its lead—and looks to build on it
Subscribe to enjoy similar stories. India’s cement sector is laying a solid foundation for growth, with stocks surging after a research report pointed to a sustained earnings upcycle. UltraTech Cement, the country’s largest producer, has been at the forefront of this rally, continuing its trend of outperformance.
The momentum is fuelled by a recovery in infrastructure spending, industry consolidation, and rising prices—all of which favour dominant players. With government-led capex driving demand and competition weeding out smaller players, UltraTech is poised to gain further ground. Read this | Is the cement sector consolidation at its fag end? But challenges remain, from pricing pressures to its bold venture into the cables and wires (C&W) business.
Infrastructure spending took a hit in the first half of FY25, as elections and monsoons slowed project execution, dampening cement demand. The resulting low volume growth and soft pricing intensified competition across the sector. However, with government capex rebounding in Q3 and activity picking up post-monsoon and festive season, demand has strengthened.
Cement prices have followed, rising ₹5 per bag in February. Despite recent fiscal tightening, the government remains committed to infrastructure-led growth. Over the next five years, ₹4.6 trillion has been allocated across key projects, including the National Infrastructure Pipeline (NIP), PM Awas Yojana, and highway development.
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