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Stocks of cement companies are seen trading with a negative bias this week as Jan-Mar earnings of most major cement manufacturers have been disappointing. A weak demand outlook will also weigh on the sentiment in the coming sessions. Barring ACC Ltd, results of big players like Ultratech Cement and Ambuja Cement have been disappointing. Prism Cement--which detailed earnings on May 9--posted a net profit of 142 mln rupees for Jan-Mar, almost half of that in the corresponding period last year. Sentiment is also weak as cement demand is still looking sluggish because of low infrastructure activity. The companies are also facing pricing pressure. However, if the market keeps up with the upbeat momentum, cement stocks may see some upside. Investors will now eye Jan-Mar earnings of India Cements on May 20.
