August 7, 2025
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JSW Cement IPO review by Paresh Gordhandas, CA & Research Analyst.
❌ JSW Cement IPO — Why You Might Avoid It
1. Sharp drop into losses in FY 25
JSW Cement posted a net loss of Rs. 163.77 crore in FY 2025, compared to a profit of Rs. 62 crore in FY 2024. This sudden swing reflects deteriorating margins and puts into question near-term financial stability.
2. Poor capacity utilization and pricing power
Despite aggressive capacity expansion, utilization remained muted at ~63% in FY 25, significantly below the industry average of 72% . JSW also recorded cement realization ~15% below national average, due to reliance on GGBS-based products (~42% of sales), which carry lower margins and weaker pricing control.
3. Heavy competition and weak market positioning
JSW Cement lacks the financial muscle to compete aggressively with sector giants like Ultratech, Adani, and Dalmia, and will rely purely on organic growth—not acquisitions—limiting its scale and influence in a volume-driven sector.
4. High debt and dilution risk
The IPO proposes raising Rs. 1,600 crore fresh capital (for a new plant) and an OFS of Rs. 2,000 crore, valuing the company at over Rs. 20,000 crore. Given weak operations and higher leverage, concerns around return-on-capital and dilution remain warranted
5. Opaque growth indicators & macro risk
The company’s greenfield plant may take time to operationalize, with uncertain returns. Combined with cyclical downturns, input cost volatility, and regulatory risks, the upside appears far from assured.
🧾 Final Verdict — Chanakya Caution
JSW Cement IPO is riding the JSW Group brand—but its standalone performance is fragile: declining margins, operating losses, under-utilized capacity, and weak pricing are red flags. While ambitious expansion plans loom large, execution may lag, and competitive pressures remain daunting.
Unless you have a high-risk tolerance and a long runway for turnaround, this IPO may be best avoided.
