South-based cement players better placed

Despite the Chennai floods and price corrections, the stocks of South India-based cement players have not seen a sharp correction. Ramco Cements marginally reduced to Rs 371 and Dalmia Bharat increased to 2.2 per cent at Rs 764, compared to levels seen in November-end. However, India Cements is down 7.5 per cent at Rs 82.05. While demand and realisation in the December quarter have remained, leading to correction in prices, the recent severe rains have led to some dip in sales. This could result in companies reporting a soft third quarter, with demand getting a major thrust.