New Delhi, Oct. 22 -- Cement stocks are likely to remain in focus as improving demand, higher government capital expenditure and recent price hikes offer some relief to the sector. However, rising input costs, particularly a sharp increase in petcoke prices amid geopolitical tensions in West Asia, could weigh on profitability in the second half of FY27.

Domestic brokerage Nuvama Institutional Equities has maintained a neutral stance on the cement sector, citing persistent cost pressures despite signs of a recovery in demand and pricing. The brokerage has retained JK Cement as its top pick, with a 'Buy' rating.

According to Nuvama, cement demand improved month-on-month across most regions in October 2026, supported by the withdrawal of t...