Shree Cement's March quarter shows why it commands rich valuations

Highest margins, strong balance sheet, high free cash flow are well priced in

Despite the Covid-19-led challenges, Shree Cement reported its highest-ever profitability in its mainstay cement business and better-than-expected earnings for the March quarter (Q4). The improvement in the profitability also helped offset the fall in volumes, and was led by higher realisations and cost leadership. Following the results posted on Friday after market hours, the stock has gained 2 per cent, even as the markets remained down.

Realisations improved as prices in the north and central India, where Shree has high exposure, were better than in other regions. Reported realisations at Rs 4,625 per tonne were up 9.5 per cent year-on-year (YoY)