The Indian economy is in good shape and is one of the fastest growing economies in the world. With a good environment created for macroeconomic growth, there is no reason why investors should not be optimistic for the near term while investing in the minerals and mining sector stocks.
Factors Affecting The Mining Sector
Government Reforms
Introduction of the GST can be seen as a boon for the mining sector. About 81 percent of the items have been taxed at less than 18 percent. The rate under GST for capital goods and industrial intermediate items in 18 per cent. Thus, expect mining sector stocks to zoom ahead once GST comes into play. The government has taken various measures to reduce imports, thus aiding domestic steel companies. By introducing the National Steel Policy, the government aims to increase domestic production to 300 million tons by 2030. With a focus on renewable energy and infrastructure, the metal consumption is expected to increase in the near future.
Global Factors
Metal prices have recovered in the past 10-12 months. Some supply constraints and the increase in demand from China has kept the outlook positive for the sector. Steel prices have recovered by a huge 54 percent. Appreciation of the rupee could be the only spoilsport for the mining sector.Thus, domestic policy decisions along with increasing prices due to global factors are helping improve the growth story of the mining sector.
Stock Picks in the Mining Sector
Let us take a look at some stocks in the mining sector, where value investors can park their money for the long term:
Kalyani Steel Ltd (KSL)
KSL is a leading company in engineering and forging. The lower cost of iron ore will help reduce costs. Its location near Mangalore port, helps it get imports at lower costs as well. It possesses a vast and loyal client base. Its client base includes automobile majors like Eicher Motors, Hyundai, Maruti Suzuki , whose sales are expected to increase in the coming fiscal. Thus, we expect KSL to get large orders, which will help fuel its growth in the coming quarters. It is known for its R&D capabilities. Thus, with an improving product base, industry demand and location advantage, we recommend this stock to our readers
Vedanta Resources
The company has stakes in different minerals like zinc, lead, silver, copper, iron ore etc. The company has given stellar Q4 results, with a profit close to Rs. 3000 crore. Rising metal prices and ramping up of aluminium and zinc businesses have helped in increasing its revenue from operations by 41 percent (QoQ). The company has been showing signs of improvement by reducing its gross debt by Rs 4000 crore. Vedanta has been able to generate a good amount of Free Cash Flow, which only is a sign of good things to come. The company has earmarked investments in Hindustan Zinc and Cairn India in the coming years.
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