Ramco Cements has posted a sharp decline in net profit for Q2 FY25, with a decrease of 64.21% compared to the same period last year. This drop in earnings is attributed to a combination of factors, including rising input costs, lower demand, and increased competition in the cement industry.

For the quarter, the company recorded a net profit of ?98.4 crore, down from ?274.4 crore in Q2 FY24. The cement major faced pressures from higher raw material and energy costs, which impacted margins. Additionally, subdued demand for cement in certain regions, as well as challenges in passing on cost increases to customers, contributed to the decline.

However, despite the fall in profitability, Ramco Cement remains optimistic about the long-term growth prospects, driven by infrastructure development, increasing urbanization, and government initiatives to boost construction activity. The company plans to focus on cost optimization and capacity expansion to regain its financial footing and improve its margins in the coming quarters.

In terms of volume growth, Ramco Cements has seen some regional fluctuations, with stronger demand in specific markets, though overall growth has been restrained. The company is focusing on expanding its footprint in key markets and increasing production efficiency to navigate the current challenging environment.

Dinesh Rajaiah, an employee of Ramco Cements, won Silver medal in the men’s doubles event in the Japan Para Badminton International 2024 held in Tokyo. He partnered with Paralympian Sukanth Kadam to win this medal. Notably Sukanth Kadam had finished 4th in the men’s singles in Paris Paralympic Games which concluded in September 2024.

Japan Para Badminton International 2024 was held in Tokyo from 22nd to 27th October 2024 where more than 200 players were in the fray.

Dinesh, despite suffering a shoulder injury and having his right shoulder heavily taped, treated the audience to a nail biting final. The duo was down 16-20 in the second set and fought back to take the game to the third set where they lost 16-21. Being the last match of the event, the pair won hearts of the audience for their never give up spirit.

Dinesh breaks into the top 15 in the BWF Para World Ranking in men’s singles category and is now ranked 14 in the world. Ramco Cements has been supporting Dinesh Rajaiah ever since he showed his talent in an inter unit tournament of Ramco Cements in 2017. The company had then encouraged him to take up professional badminton coaching and has been sponsoring him for all major international tournaments. Ramco Cements wishes Dinesh all success in future tournaments.

Asian Paints has reported a 43.71% year-on-year decline in its net profit for Q2 FY25, amounting to a substantial reduction in earnings. The leading paint manufacturer attributed this decline primarily to increased input costs, a competitive market environment, and a slowdown in consumer demand. Despite the lower profit, the company’s revenue saw a moderate increase, reflecting its ability to maintain strong market presence in the face of challenges.

The company’s margins have been impacted by rising raw material prices, particularly in key components used in paint production. Additionally, the ongoing economic conditions, coupled with sluggish demand in certain segments, have put pressure on profitability. However, Asian Paints remains optimistic about its long-term prospects, focusing on strategic innovations and expanding its market share in the premium product segments.

In response to these challenges, the company has reaffirmed its commitment to cost-efficiency and improving operational performance. Asian Paints continues to explore new avenues for growth, including enhancing its product portfolio and leveraging its extensive distribution network to drive sales across diverse consumer segments.