Sales rose 11% to $4.18 billion during the October-December period, driven by higher pricing power and increased demand for cement and aggregates. While ready-mix concrete volumes saw a decline, the company’s operating profit climbed 22% to $457 million. Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) reached $781 million, a 16% increase that Cemex attributed to cost-efficiency measures and a rebound in its domestic Mexican operations in the second half of the year.
Despite the operational gains, Cemex recorded a net loss of $356 million for the quarter, a sharp reversal from the $48 million profit reported in the prior-year period. According to the company, the deficit was primarily fueled by a goodwill impairment and asset writedowns. This accounting adjustment overshadowed the underlying performance of its core business segments during the final months of the year.
Strategic Reinvestment and Growth Forecast
To bolster investor confidence, the board of directors proposed a 40% increase in dividend payments, totaling $180 million for the year. The company also outlined a plan to repurchase up to $500 million in shares over the next three years. Looking ahead to 2026, Cemex forecasts EBITDA growth in the high single digits, supported by a robust capital expenditure plan.
The company’s investment strategy for the current year includes:
- $900 million allocated for maintenance.
- $300 million designated for growth initiatives.
- $210 million for intangible assets.
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