CRH shares rise on strong Q3 results and positive outlook

Investing.com — Shares of CRH Plc (LON:) (NYSE:) rose on Thursday following after it reported strong Q3 results, defying a challenging market for construction and materials firms.

CRH reported positive performance with EBITDA growth, rising by 12% to $2.454 billion, boosted by asset gains and cost-management efforts amid industry-wide declines. 

Despite unfavorable weather affecting parts of the Americas, CRH reported a 10% organic EBITDA growth projection for the full year, supported by strong performance in materials sales across the U.S. and Europe.

UBS flags that CRH’s improved earnings guidance has set it apart from other industry players, many of whom are revising down expectations. 

This consistent performance has been driven by a balanced approach to expansion and asset management, as well as recent acquisitions contributing an additional $250 million to projected EBITDA for 2025. 

Additionally, CRH maintained a steady dividend policy, declared another share buyback, and has guided for further progress into 2025, which UBS believes will sustain investor interest.

UBS notes that while CRH’s EPS for Q3 2024 of $1.97 slightly missed consensus expectations due to a temporary tax rate increase, the stock’s outlook remains strong given sustained demand and stable pricing in the U.S. market, which accounts for over 70% of CRH’s EBITDA.