Domestic steelmakers are expected to see a significant rise in their net leverage to over 3x this fiscal year, driven by a 25% increase in debt due to ongoing capital expenditure (capex) projects. According to a report by Crisil Ratings, the debt levels of major steelmakers will rise by more than Rs 40,000 crore this fiscal year, marking a return to levels seen in fiscal 2020. This increase in debt is largely due to the ongoing capex cycle, with Rs 70,000 crore planned for the current and next fiscal years, aimed at expanding steelmaking capacity by 30 million tonnes per annum (mtpa) by fiscal 2027.
While the rise in debt may strain financial metrics, steelmakers are expected to improve efficiency and increase capacity, boosting long-term growth. However, profitability has come under pressure due to falling steel prices and rising imports. Steel prices are expected to fall by 10% this fiscal year, driven by increasing imports, especially from China. Despite an increase in demand and volume, lower realizations are expected to reduce operating profit margins.
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