Near-term margin concerns and valuations weigh on Dr Lal Pathlabs

Some brokerages prefer Metropolis given higher realisation, revenue growth trajectory

The Dr Lal Pathlabs stock has shed about 15 per cent from its highs a week ago after brokerages downgraded it over concerns related to realisation pressures, higher competition, and near-term margin pressures. Prior to the recent correction, the stock had gained 45 per cent since the start of March, running ahead of growth expectations. After Nomura downgraded the stock last week, CLSA, too, put a “sell” rating on Tuesday.

 While most brokerages are bullish over the long-term prospects of the sector and diagnostic companies, including Dr Lal Pathlabs, they flag near-term concerns. Lower realisations on a sequential basis because of