SUDARSCHEM - Sudarshan Chemical Indus. Ltd. Share Price

Management provided an optimistic outlook for Sudarshan Chemical Industries Limited, indicating that the challenging demand conditions seen in Q2 and Q3 are behind them. They emphasized that confidence has been rebuilt with customers who have started to buy more actively as of January and early February 2026. Management stated that they anticipate a business EBITDA of EUR 9 million to EUR 10 million for Q4 FY26. They plan to reduce inventories by EUR 30 million to EUR 40 million over the next three quarters, which will positively impact cash flow but may lead to a short-term reduction in reported EBITDA by EUR 9 million to EUR 12 million due to overhead allocations.

Key forward-looking points highlighted by management include:

1. Integration Progress: After 11 months of integrating Heubach's operations, the company claims significant progress. They have rebuilt trust with customers and expanded local customer service teams across various regions.

2. Value Capture: They have already captured INR 40 crores in cost savings, with plans for further improvements through operational efficiency and digital innovations.

3. Economic Recovery Signs: Management sees signs of economic recovery which could buoy demand, notably in sectors affected by the current downturn.

4. Strategic Focus: As part of their strategy, management aims to harmonize processes and migrate to a single SAP system by December 2026 to streamline operations and improve productivity.

5. Debt Management: The balance sheet is expected to improve with lower inventories, resulting in a favorable reduction in net debt levels.

Through these actions and anticipated economic improvements, management aims to achieve a target EBITDA of EUR 90 million to EUR 100 million over the next few years, underlining a long-term positive trajectory for the company despite current headwinds.

1. Question: "Now that there is a sharp rise in benzene prices, how do you see cost pressure panning out in the next quarter?"
   Answer: We do see increases in certain raw materials like benzene. However, we are well covered on raw materials and do not expect any negative impact in Q4. Given our larger portfolio, the impact from benzene will be minimal.

2. Question: "Why did the inventory liquidation start only now, after a two-quarter delay?"
   Answer: Building customer trust was our priority. Our supply chain processes needed to be solid before inventory liquidation. We couldn't risk disrupting the reestablishment of customer confidence, which has been successful.

3. Question: "How confident are you about maintaining profitability given the subdued demand?"
   Answer: We are confident as customers are starting to buy again after January. Our structural strengths remain intact, and we expect to deliver better numbers as market conditions improve.

4. Question: "What are your plans regarding your current stake of approximately 8.19%?"
   Answer: The Rathi family holds substantial shares and is committed to supporting the business. I also have warrants that will boost my stake.

5. Question: "What is your long-term strategy for the Heubach operation?"
   Answer: We've made necessary manufacturing changes post-acquisition. No major alterations are anticipated, though tactical adjustments may occur.

6. Question: "How will the EU-USA trade deals impact your business?"
   Answer: Initially, we don't expect immediate effects since the agreements will take time to ratify. We are carefully monitoring developments to adjust as needed.

7. Question: "How is seasonality affecting the Heubach business revenue?"
   Answer: The decline in revenue is mainly due to destocking rather than seasonality. We expect Q3 to be our weakest but see recovery ahead.

8. Question: "What is your target for synergy-related cost savings?"
   Answer: Our long-term goal is to achieve EUR 90 million to EUR 100 million in savings through cost reduction efforts over the next 3-4 years.

9. Question: "Will the EUR 40 million in liquidation lead to debt reduction?"
   Answer: Yes, we anticipate a significant reduction in net debt as we liquidate inventory in the next few quarters.

10. Question: "How do you plan on managing fixed costs amidst volatility in demand?"
    Answer: We aim to reduce fixed costs, particularly in the acquired group, where the cost structure is largely fixed. Addressing this will help mitigate the impact of demand fluctuations.