I have praised the uncanny stock-picking prowess of my fellow members of Motley Fool CAPS on more occasions than I can count.
Within that context, I hope that I may be indulged to highlight one instance where I believe some of my fellow Fools may be exhibiting a touch of excessive optimism.
Despite its storied weakness through the early phases of our ongoing economic downturn, global cement and aggregates supplier Cemex
The company's second-quarter loss from continuing operations of $301 million did not quite live up to the prevailing expectation by analysts for earnings of $84 million. It's not the first time I've seen analysts misjudge a quarterly result by hundreds of millions of dollars, but it is worth noting that this $385 million earnings discrepancy occurred despite those same analysts predicting the top-line result to within 1%.
Aside from the persistent weakness in demand for its products throughout key markets in North America and Europe, the major culprits in Cemex's dastardly loss were the result of financing costs that quadrupled from prior-year levels to reach a $438 million drain on earnings. Included within those costs was a $43 million loss on derivatives, but remaining exposures appear to be high and fair market values disturbingly low.
Meanwhile, an 8% improvement in cement volumes in the United States was negated by an 8% drop in net sales revenue from U.S. operations. While some may point to the volume spike as a "glimmer of hope," I for one would seek far more than a glimmer before considering an investment in this heavily impaired stock. With total debt of $16.6 billion even after aggressive debt repayment, the stakes are simply too high for this cautious Fool.
With a familiar chant, Cemex reminded investors of prior cost-cutting measures and how well-poised the company is to benefit from a recovery. At this stage, however, it would take more than mere margin expansion like that revealed by wallboard manufacturer USG
Those investors who are keen on exposure to materials are encouraged instead to focus upon those suppliers with major ability to allocate product to Asia, still the lone bright spot on the globe for materials demand. From prolific copper exporter Southern Copper