January 28, 2026 (MLN): Lucky Cement Limited (PSX: LUCK) reported a profit after taxation of Rs48.03bn for the half year ended December 31, 2025, showing a 10.36% YoY increase compared to Rs43.52bn in the same period last year.

Earnings per share (EPS) improved to Rs30.45, up 13.32% YoY from Rs26.87 in 1HFY25.

Gross revenue increased 11.13% YoY to Rs310.46bn, driven by higher dispatches and improved pricing dynamics.

After accounting for sales tax, excise duty, rebates, incentives, and commissions totaling Rs63.37bn, net revenue rose 10.07% YoY to Rs247.09bn.

Cost of sales climbed 15.54% YoY to Rs184.13bn, outpacing revenue growth. As a result, gross profit declined 3.32% YoY to Rs62.95bn, compressing margins during the period.

Distribution costs declined 11.29% YoY to Rs8.12bn, providing partial relief at the operating level. However, administrative expenses increased 13.93% YoY to Rs4.68bn, while other expenses surged 51.85% YoY to Rs3.63bn.

Finance costs dropped sharply by 35.01% YoY to Rs9.67bn, mainly due to lower borrowing costs and improved debt management.

Other income rose 14.78% YoY to Rs12.33bn, while share of profit from joint ventures and associates increased 14.93% YoY to Rs10.55bn, supporting profitability.

Consequently, profit before levy and taxation increased 9.58% YoY to Rs59.75bn.

After a lower levy charge of Rs255.99m, profit before taxation stood at Rs59.49bn, up 9.98% YoY.

Taxation expense increased 8.41% YoY to Rs11.46bn, leading to a profit after taxation of Rs48.03bn for 1HFY26.

Profit attributable to owners of the holding company rose 13.33% YoY to Rs44.61bn, while non-controlling interest declined 17.75% YoY to Rs3.42bn, emphasizing improved earnings quality.