K S Oils – Losing Viscosity

K S Oils (KSO) has reported above-expected revenue growth for Q4FY08, at 107% YoY to Rs 6.7bn. The quarter’s performance was backed by higher branded and retail sales coupled with stronger average realizations. While net profit came in slightly below estimates, growth was nevertheless robust at 91% YoY to Rs 402mn.

During FY08, KSO witnessed a sharp rise in the average sales price of edible oils. There is a cut back on sales volume expectations for crude mustard oil for these two years, anticipating pressure due to price hikes. In addition, we expect the company to encounter procurement cost pressures, which would have an impact on margins. Subsequent to these adjustments, earnings estimates for FY09 and FY10 stand reduced by 15% and 17% respectively