Fertilizer sector eyes high profit

Fertilizer sector profits are poised to surge by Rs36 billion on a year-on-year basis, driven primarily by elevated retention prices of this crucial commodity. Topline Securities projects a 104% YoY increase in fertilizer earnings to Rs25 billion in the fourth quarter of the calendar year 2023. This surge is attributed to a spike in retention prices, leading to higher gross margins. However, on a quarter-on-quarter basis, earnings are anticipated to remain flat due to lower volumetric sales of Urea.

This boost is expected to elevate full-year 2023 after-tax earnings to Rs63 billion, up 63% YoY, propelled by higher gross profit amid increased prices and DAP sales.