Himadri Speciality Chemical Limited (500184) Earnings Call Transcript & Summary

July 16, 2026

BSE IN Materials Chemicals earnings

Earnings Call Speaker Segments

Operator

operator
#1

Ladies and gentlemen, good day, and welcome to the Himadri Speciality Chemical Limited Q1 FY '27 Conference Call hosted by MUFG. [Operator Instructions] I now hand the conference over to Mr. Chirag Bhatia from MUFG. Thank you, and over to you, sir.

Chirag Bhatia

attendee
#2

Thank you, Alicia. Good evening, everyone, and welcome to Q1 FY '27 Earnings Conference Call of Himadri Speciality Chemical Limited. Today on the call, we have with us Mr. Anurag Choudhary, CMD and CEO; Mr. Somesh Satnalika, EVP, Tire and Strategy; and Mr. Kamlesh Agarwal, CFO. Before we proceed with the call, I would like to give you a disclaimer that this conference call may contain forward-looking statements about the company, which are based on beliefs, opinions and expectations as of today. Actual results may differ materially. The statements are not the guarantee of the future performance and involve the risks and uncertainties that are difficult to predict. A detailed safe harbor statement is being given on Page 2 of the investor presentation of the company, which have been uploaded on stock exchange and on the company website. With this, I now hand over the call to Mr. Anurag Choudhary. Over to you, sir.

Anurag Choudhary

executive
#3

Thank you, Chirag. Good evening, everyone, and a very warm welcome to the Q1 FY '27 Earnings Conference Call of Himadri Speciality Chemicals Limited. Thank you for joining us today. We look forward to taking you through our performance for the quarter ended 30th June 2026, the progress across our strategic priorities and how we see the road ahead. Those who have followed our journey over the past few years will recognize that Himadri today has transformed into a different company from where it started. We began as a cool derivative company. And today, we operate as a global advanced materials and application-driven solution organization. We are positioned at the intersection of material science, energy transition and high-performance applications. At the core of this transformation lies a simple belief the companies that will lead the future are those that can continuously reload themselves, execute, reinvest, scale and repeat the cycle with discipline. This philosophy guides everything that we do. Over 3 decades, we have laid foundation. And today, we are building a future, placing core platform for the energy transition economy, focusing on capturing a global opportunity backed with innovation-led growth. Now let me briefly touch upon the financial picture for the quarter. On a consolidated basis, revenue stood at INR 1,432 crores. EBITDA was at INR 313 crores with a margin of 22% and profit after tax was INR 228 crores, reflecting a PAT margin of 16%. This performance reflects both strong operational discipline and the continued shift in our product mix towards higher value segments. Yesterday, we announced 2 important initiatives that further strengthen our innovation-led growth trajectory. First, we successfully developed indigenous carbon nanotube technology through our relentless in-house innovation and research and development, marking another milestone in our innovation journey. Backed by a planned CapEx of approximately INR 70 crores, our upcoming 200 metric ton per annum CNT manufacturing facility targeted for commissioning in Q4 FY '27 is expected to position Himadri among a select group of few global manufacturers serving this high-growth market. CNT is a next-generation material with application spanning across lithium-ion batteries, semiconductors, electronics, sensors, polymers, coatings, aerospace, et cetera. With demand accelerating across these industries, we believe CNT represents a significant long-term growth opportunity for the company. The second initiative is our entry into super speciality carbon black. This is a structurally different, high-purity segment designed for high performance in highly specialized markets like lithium-ion batteries, engineered plastics, fabrics, fibers, coating, conductive black and other niche applications, delivering premium realizations. We are converting 6,000 metric tons per annum of existing capacity with a CapEx of INR 170 crores. This is a classic example of our compounding philosophy, leveraging the same integrated feedstock base and new infrastructure to produce significantly high value-added products. This enhances margins, deepens application reach and strengthens our positioning in global speciality markets. Let me now turn to what will define the next phase of Himadri's journey, new energy materials. Global lithium-ion battery demand is projected to rise from around 1.6 terawatt hours in 2025 to nearly 6.8 terawatt hours by 2035. We are positioning ourselves for this opportunity with a fully integrated complex. On the anode side, we have commissioned our 200 metric ton per annum anode material facility at Mahistikry in April 2026. This capability is built entirely on overall decade of in-house research. The facility has been specifically designed with feedstock flexibility, enabling the use of in-house developed special engineered pitch. This backward integration gives us scalability, cost efficiency and resilience within a self-reliant value chain. On the cathode side, we are building capabilities in lithium ion phosphate, LFP cathode chemistry, which is fast emerging as the preferred solution for mass market EVs and energy storage. Our initial 2,000 metric ton per capacity is expected to be commissioned in Q3 FY '27, representing the first milestone under Phase 1 of 40,000 metric ton per annum expansion plan, which forms part of our broader long-term vision to scale capacity to 200 metric ton -- 200,000 metric tons per annum. What differentiates us is our integration from feedstock to materials. We are working towards building a scalable platform aligned with global demand and necessary priorities. [Technical Difficulty]

Operator

operator
#4

We are losing your audio. Can you please repeat? Sir, we are going to connect your line again.

Anurag Choudhary

executive
#5

Yes, very sorry, the line got disconnected. So coming back to our commentary on the cathode side, we are building capabilities in lithium-ion phosphate cathode chemistry, which is fast emerging as a preferred solution for mass market EVs and energy storage. Our initial 2,000 metric ton per annum capacity is expected to be commissioned in Q3 FY '27, representing the first milestone under Phase 1 of our 40,000 metric ton per annum expansion plan, which form part of our broader long-term vision to scale capacity to 200,000 metric ton per annum. What differentiates us is our integration from feedstock to materials. We are working towards building a self- scalable platform aligned with both global demand and national priorities. We continue to strengthen our strategic investments in battery material ecosystem. Sona in which Himadri is a strategic investor, secured AUD 45 million funding to accelerate its next-generation silicon carbon anode technology commercialization. Additionally, we have increased our stake in international battery company, reaffirming our confidence across battery value chain from materials to validation and deployment. Now coming to Birla Tyres. Birla Tyres turnaround continues to make steady progress. Since commencing commercial operation on 29th of May 2025, the focus has been on rebuilding the business on a strong operational and technological foundation. Alongside recommissioning the plant, significant efforts are underway to modernize manufacturing infrastructure, upgrade equipment and incorporate state-of-the-art automation across operations, thereby bringing the facility in line with contemporary industry standards and enhancing efficiency, consistency and product quality. In parallel, a strategic transformation of the manufacturing footprint is being undertaken by progressively converting the existing truck and bus bias tire capacity towards off-the-road tire production in a phased manner. That is in line with evolving market demand dynamics. This transition, along with modernization initiatives will be supported by additional capital expenditure and expected to be executed over the next 3 years, creating a stronger platform for long-term growth and profitability. As of today, the distribution network spans 49 distributors and over 1,000 dealers. Birla Tyres has been strengthening its portfolio across agriculture, mining and commercial segments with the launch of SKUs across 3 new agriculture products lines during the quarter, Agri, Agri Plus and AgriL40. This momentum is supported by a strong product development pipeline. With over 400 new SKUs under development across segments, Birla Tyres' next strategic milestone is the commissioning of passenger car radial facility by FY '28, paving the way for its planned entry into EV and SUV tire segments. In Speciality Carbon Black, we continue to build on our technology advantage with 250,000 metric ton capacity, including 130,000 tonnes of speciality carbon black capacity, we operate across a product portfolio of more than 70 speciality grades. Our integration from feedstock to final formulation gives us control over quality, cost and consistency. Our approach remains lab first plant later and shows that capacity expansion is always backed by validated applications. Our coal tap business continues to anchor the company. We operate the world's largest single location fully integrated carbon complex with 600,000 metric tons of coal tar distillation capacity. Our domestic market share continues to be over 65% and the commissioning of liquid Coal Tar Pitch terminal at Haldia and Bangalore has strengthened our ability to serve global markets. Our forward integration into Anthraquinone and Carbazole with a total capacity of 5,300 metric tons is progressing well with first commissioning targeted by FY '28. Initially phase capacity of 2,600 is set to commission in Q2 FY '27 and balance capacity of 2,700 metric tons is to be added in Q2 FY '28. This facility will be India's first commercial plant for its kind, reducing import dependence and unlocking the export-led growth, a right move towards Atmanirbhar Bharat. Let me now briefly explain how we are structuring our existing business. Our model has been 3 clear layers. At the core lines, our derivatives, carbon black, naphthalene, and oil of various grades, providing scale and feedstock security. Secondly, our speciality offering consists of products, speciality carbon black, super speciality carbon black, CNT, niche engineered grades of coal tar pitch, SNF & PCE, speciality chemicals such as N31 and Carbazole, which provide us customer stickiness and greater value realization. And the third is new energy materials, anode and electric cathode active material and silicon carbon technology, placing us at the very heart of global energy transition value chain. What this structure allows us is to grow on earnings faster than revenue as we focus on value-accretive businesses. Across all business initiatives, our capital allocation remains disciplined. The CapEx program is thoughtfully structured to balance scale with efficiency. It is entirely self-funded and deliberately calibrated between brownfield expansions, which enhance asset productivity and greenfield investments, where we are building new capabilities from the ground up. This approach allows us to pursue growth while maintaining balance sheet strength and capital discipline. Sustainability remains deeply embedded in our business model and operational philosophy. All our plants operate on a zero liquid discharge basis, reflecting our commitment to responsible manufacturing, resource efficiency and economical stewardship. These efforts continue to gain recognition. The reaffirmation of our EcoVadis Platinum rating continues to place Himadri among the top 1% of the companies globally assessed by EcoVadis. Increasingly, such credentials are not merely accolades, but important commercial prerequisites in global value chain. Our commitment to sustainable and responsible growth was further recognized during the quarter through several prestigious awards that belongs to entire Himadri family. Our approach is very clear. We are diversifying to build resilience. We are shifting our product portfolio mix to drive profitability, and we are executing things while maintaining balance sheet discipline. We are building a strong foundation that allows us to scale transformational growth while preserving financial discipline and transparency. I am confident that this combination of scale, integration, innovation, discipline will continue to deliver substantial value for all our stakeholders. With that, let me hand over to our Chief Financial Officer, Mr. Kamlesh Agarwal, who will now take you through the financial performance for the quarter in greater detail. Thank you very much.

Kamlesh Agarwal

executive
#6

Thank you, Anurag. Good evening, everyone, and thank you for joining us today. I trust that everyone has had a chance to review our financial results and the latest investor presentation, which have been made available on both the stock exchanges and our company's website. Let me begin with the key financial highlights of the quarter. Our consolidated revenue for the quarter stood at INR 1,432 crores as compared to INR 1,118 crores a year ago, an increase of 28%. Our EBITDA stood at INR 313 crores as compared to INR 235 crores a year ago with an increase of 33% and a margin of 22%. Our profit after tax has significantly increased to INR 228 crores from INR 179 crores a year ago, a jump of 27% with a margin of 16%. Our stand-alone revenue for the quarter stood at INR 1,274 crores as compared to INR 1,100 crores a year ago, an increase of 16%. Our EBITDA stood at INR 301 crores as compared to INR 234 crores a year ago with a growth rate of 29% and margin of 24%. Profit after tax has significantly increased to INR 223 crores from INR 183 crores a year ago, a jump of 22% with margin of 18%. We remain committed to delivering strong value through our strategic priorities and operational rigor. Thank you once again for your continued support and engagement. Thank you.

Anurag Choudhary

executive
#7

Now you can open the floor for the question-answer session.

Operator

operator
#8

[Operator Instructions] The first question is from the line of Sanjesh Jain from ICICI Securities.

Sanjesh Jain

analyst
#9

I got a couple of questions. First, a numerical question, let me finish that. On the other segment, the EBIT has fallen from INR 25 crores last quarter to around INR 1 crore this quarter. What has changed? Because revenue number hasn't changed much. Why there is such a sharp swing in the EBIT margin for the other segment?

Kamlesh Agarwal

executive
#10

So other segment last time consists of mining profit, which this quarter didn't took place. That was the reason of fall.

Sanjesh Jain

analyst
#11

So what explains less change in revenue in that? So what is compensated.

Kamlesh Agarwal

executive
#12

So this quarter, we did not operate the mines. We're waiting for some licensing to happen. Post that, the mining operation will start. That was the...

Sanjesh Jain

analyst
#13

Okay. But it is not showing up in revenue. That means something else has picked up very short.

Kamlesh Agarwal

executive
#14

Revenue because the Birla Tyres revenue has gone up. Last quarter, if you see the Birla quarter revenue was significantly low. And with the ramping up of capacity in Birla Tyres, the revenue is going up. So that's the reason you don't find change in revenue, but you find change in the profitability.

Sanjesh Jain

analyst
#15

Clear, clear. Now coming to the new CapEx that we have announced, which is the Carbon Nano Tube and the Super-speciality Carbon Black. In Nano Tube, what is an approach? This will address India market, global market? What is the key application you did said energy and semiconductor -- but whom are we competing here? And how have we benchmarked the product now that we are commercializing it, we would have done all that, right? So how should we see this segment? And what is the differential in the realization versus a speciality carbon black and the Carbon Nano Tube? That's one. Number two, we got the super speciality carbon black. What really is this because Carbon Nano Tube, I can still understand. But when we say super speciality carbon black, what really are we trying to do here? So these are the 2 on this question.

Anurag Choudhary

executive
#16

Yes. Thank you, Sanjesh. So first of all, coming to carbon nano tube. Carbon nano tube is a unique product where graphene is rolled into seamless cylinder that forms carbon nanotube. So it's nothing but graphene, which we have developed through relentless R&D efforts of many, many years. If you look at the entire value chain -- entire supply chain platform globally, there are only a few companies in the world who are doing this. And we are the first in India. And if you look at the product, to make it very simple, it is 100x the st copper. That's the game changer. strength of steel and conductivity of copper and very light material. So this opens the entire huge arena of applications. right, from lithium-ion batteries to semiconductors to conductive film sensors to industrial coatings to lightweight high-strength material for aerospace and automotive means every day, the usage is improving and increasing. So that places Himadri in a unique position because the in-house technology we have developed and now we are putting it into scale. So this is the first step with 200 metric tons. We'll stabilize the product, set up the facility, get customers in place globally. So today, the market is very less in India. It's a global play. So we'll be supplying to the global players. And this is a very high value-added product and with significant value over the existing products. Now coming to super speciality carbon black. So I have been talking about value-added products, the journey, and it's a journey. It's -- every time you keep on working on it, you keep on developing and you go one step up the ladder. So we started with very low end of speciality carbon black, just marginal in terms of speciality carbon black. Then we are moving ahead. We are going up the ladder with the new speciality carbon black line coming up, we have moved up the ladder. Now the aspiration -- so I've been always talking about high-value niche market for speciality carbon black, which is a very -- not a very, very huge market, but it's a very, very prime and tailor-made super speciality market, where the value addition is multifold of the existing speciality. So in terms of value addition, you cannot compare the 2 products. That's why you are seeing at only 6,000 metric tons, but the value addition will be very, very high. So this is the product we are targeting now. And we have given FY '28 as when we start the capacity. And this will be a very big game changer for the company going into a very, very niche market, high value-add market with a very strong ROCE.

Sanjesh Jain

analyst
#17

No, my question is that we just started a speciality plant. Why did we do that? We would have straight went into manufacturing the same, which is we are converting the old plant, right?

Anurag Choudhary

executive
#18

No, no, we are not converting the speciality plant. We are converting the...

Sanjesh Jain

analyst
#19

The rubber side of the...

Anurag Choudhary

executive
#20

And speciality why we went -- see, you cannot leave one market and focus on one market. See, these players buy speciality, they buy super speciality. So you have to have the entire portfolio in your basket. It's not that I'll sell you only the best product, high-margin product, others you buy from others. That never works. So for that, you have to have the entire portfolio with the Speciality is the stepping stone to go towards super speciality. That's why we have to strengthen our position, make us very strong in speciality, that gives the confidence to the customers that they have the ability. So if you're not doing a speciality, tell super speciality, first question will first to do speciality, then we talk about super speciality. That's it.

Sanjesh Jain

analyst
#21

No, no. But I just want to understand like conductive grade, it helps in improving the conductivity in the material. what property does this super speciality adding in, say, engineering plastic and EV, what really characteristic is this adding there?

Anurag Choudhary

executive
#22

See, because of competitive nature, I don't want to disclose all these technical details on a con call. So we have clearly articulated which is application is this, and I don't want to go into technical details of the subject.

Sanjesh Jain

analyst
#23

Got it. No, no, no, that's fair. That's fair enough. Second, what is the market size of, say, carbon nanotube globally and the super speciality?

Anurag Choudhary

executive
#24

So if you look at the carbon nanotube, it's evolving market. Today, it is around 30,000 metric tons, which is growing every year. And a lot of -- what is happening, this product is getting more and more applications and user industry. So it's a new product, new technology, which is working now. And over the years, you will find the uses multiplying. The growth will be phenomenal. So this is a growing industry, new age industry, advanced material industry. Coming to super speciality, the market is around 300,000 metric tons.

Sanjesh Jain

analyst
#25

Okay. No, no, no. Super speciality is 300,000? I thought speciality is even...

Anurag Choudhary

executive
#26

Speciality is very high. Speciality runs into million, so more than 1 million. That's our normal market.

Sanjesh Jain

analyst
#27

Got it. Got it. Now coming to battery materials. So we are getting into anode LFP right now and then silicon probably soon. Now I want to understand LFP market, what is the size of the market today in China? How many players are there in this segment? And how are we approaching this segment?

Anurag Choudhary

executive
#28

So if you look at the LFP market, today, 100% global capacity of LFP is in China and is mainly dominated by top 5 to 6 players in China. They are the leaders with 75% to 80% of the capacity. Globally, there is no other company manufacturing LFP as of now on a commercial basis. So entire capacity rest with China. And market, if you look at today, we are at 1.5, 1.6 TWH. And in that, you can say probably 50% is LFP. And if you look at 50% LFP, that brings you to 800 gigawatt hour. 800 gigawatt hour that will consume around 1.6 million tonnes of LFP. And as of now, it's a growing market, it is supposed to grow to 6-plus terawatt hour by 2035 and majority, 70% of the growth is coming in LFP. So looking forward, the demand for this product is going to be big.

Sanjesh Jain

analyst
#29

Got it. Got it. And what we are adding or aspiring to add 200,000, that's like we are talking of having a 10% market share of today's market, correct? That's how we are approaching it?

Anurag Choudhary

executive
#30

That's the right way of looking at it because 200,000, we are projecting in next 5 to 6 years. So by that time, the market will definitely change from what it is today. So actually, we are targeting at 2% to 3%, which is hardly anything.

Sanjesh Jain

analyst
#31

Got it. Got it. Now if I want to look at the same economics in anode because I think there are some other players in India also who have announced anode capacity. How are we different? Again, what is the demand in the world? What is the contribution of China?

Anurag Choudhary

executive
#32

So if you look at the anode chemistry, so unlike LFP, every lithium ion cell needs anode. In cathode material, there are different chemistries. There is NMC, CLO, LFP, various chemistries. But for anode, everyone needs anode. So on a macro basis, 1,600 gigawatts need 1.6 million tonne of anode. So anodes are different types, synthetic anode and natural graphite anode. So if you look at 70% of the market is synthetic because of high capacity, stability, quality, sustainability, this product is there. What makes Himadri unique is that, see, it's not that everyone is talking about lithium ion. So Himadri has also started talking about lithium ion. This has been our vision since last more than 10, 12 years. We have worked very hard on this to make it happen. Extensive amount has been invested in terms of research and development capabilities and innovation. We have spent -- if you look at the last year's balance sheet only INR 125-plus crores, we have spent 2.6% of our top line. Current year also, we are spending in the same fashion. Over the years, we have spent this money on R&D in different products. And we know the chemistry in and out. We have worked with it for years. We were the first company in the world to supply the precursor from pitch to the Hsu of anode in China, like I don't want to do any top 5 players in China before China could make coal tar based precursors. We made it and we supply to them. So we are very seasoned in this industry and strongly positioned and only company who is talking of anode metal backward integrated. So we have our own raw material. In addition to that, we have flexibility of using other raw materials. So this brings Himadri in a unique platform. Other than that, we are working on natural graphite -- we will also set up capacity for that. We will set up capacity of silicon carbon. This again brings Himadri into a unique position where we will meet the aspiring and need of our customers, not only through synthetic, but through natural silicon carbon, hybrid... [Technical Difficulty]

Operator

operator
#33

Sorry to interrupt you, sir. Your voice is breaking. Can you please repeat your last statement?

Anurag Choudhary

executive
#34

[indiscernible].

Operator

operator
#35

Sorry to interrupt you sir. Management line, let me reconnect you, sir. Ladies and gentlemen, thank you for your patience, we have management line connected.

Anurag Choudhary

executive
#36

Sorry for the disturbance. I don't know how the land line is getting disturbed. But anyway, am I audible now? So one needs to confirm, then I can start.

Operator

operator
#37

Yes, sir. We are able to hear you.

Anurag Choudhary

executive
#38

So I was talking about the strength and USP of Himadri. We are going to set up a plant for synthetic natural and silicon carbon. That puts Himadri into a unique positioning where we can supply hybrid material to our customers depending on their requirement. Sanjesh, I hope this answers your question.

Sanjesh Jain

analyst
#39

Hello?

Anurag Choudhary

executive
#40

Yes, Sanjesh.

Sanjesh Jain

analyst
#41

Yes, sir. Can you hear me?

Kamlesh Agarwal

executive
#42

Yes, I can hear you, please.

Sanjesh Jain

analyst
#43

No, I think they mute me because they were trying to connect you. But now you can hear me. Thank you. That's perfectly clear. So now we have started 200 metric ton of pilot plant in last 1 quarter, what has been the response? How many samples we have? And what is the discussion with the client we are having? If you can give us some color, that will be really helpful.

Kamlesh Agarwal

executive
#44

Definitely. So what happens from the pilot plant, we were allowed to give sample A. There are 4 stages, sample A, B, C. So now we have supplied sample B to many customers globally and in India to all the customers in India and many customers, OEMs and manufacturers globally. So once we have the response for sample B, then we go for sample C. Hello?

Operator

operator
#45

Yes, sir, we can hear you, sir.

Kamlesh Agarwal

executive
#46

Yes, yes. Yes, Sanjesh, tell me.

Sanjesh Jain

analyst
#47

I'm trying to understand how long this approval process goes?

Kamlesh Agarwal

executive
#48

This process takes 1.5 years to 2 years.

Sanjesh Jain

analyst
#49

So this entire process for us will take almost 1.5 to 2 years. So for us to get into?

Kamlesh Agarwal

executive
#50

We have already advanced the process. So for us, it will take competitive -- by the time we have our plant in operation, we'll have the approvals in place.

Sanjesh Jain

analyst
#51

So when are we looking that what would be the potential time line? I know you haven't disclosed that, but...

Kamlesh Agarwal

executive
#52

Yes, that's the reason I cannot disclose.

Sanjesh Jain

analyst
#53

No, that's fine. We will wait for it. But you're telling generally, it's a very long drawn process in terms of taking approval, correct?

Kamlesh Agarwal

executive
#54

That's the reason we have started sampling from our commercial gate to 100 metric ton plant. So that brings us in the front foot for getting approvals.

Operator

operator
#55

Sorry to interrupt you, sir. You may rejoin the queue for follow-up questions. The next question is from the line of Deepak Poddar from Sapphire Capital.

Deepak Poddar

analyst
#56

Yes. I just wanted to understand on the anode side, what's the CapEx amount?

Kamlesh Agarwal

executive
#57

So we have already spent INR 120 crores.

Deepak Poddar

analyst
#58

And how much more to spend here?

Kamlesh Agarwal

executive
#59

How much...

Deepak Poddar

analyst
#60

I mean how much more? I mean, this INR 120 crores is the total amount for this...

Kamlesh Agarwal

executive
#61

There's no more CapEx we have announced now. Once we formulate our plan for a bigger capacity, we'll come up with public disclosure for the investment.

Deepak Poddar

analyst
#62

Okay. Okay. Got it. And LFP Phase 1, what's the time line for commissioning?

Kamlesh Agarwal

executive
#63

Q3 FY '27.

Deepak Poddar

analyst
#64

So that's only 2,000 metric tons, right? So I was talking about Phase 1, 40,000, yes.

Kamlesh Agarwal

executive
#65

That will be operational FY '28.

Deepak Poddar

analyst
#66

So that will come in FY '28?

Kamlesh Agarwal

executive
#67

Right, right, right.

Deepak Poddar

analyst
#68

And for this INR 40,000, we are spending around INR 1,125 crores, right?

Kamlesh Agarwal

executive
#69

Right, right, right.

Deepak Poddar

analyst
#70

Okay. And on this 5 CapEx that we have -- we are doing in CNT, SSCB anode, LFP cathode and Anthraquinone and carbazole. So do we have any kind of understanding? So what can be the revenue potential from each of this segment at optimum utilization? So that gives us some picture, I mean, in terms of the overall revenue potential of your new age CapEx that we are doing, yes?

Kamlesh Agarwal

executive
#71

40,000 tonnes as per today's value will give you -- LFP will give you a INR 3,000 crore top line. For anthraquinone carbazole, depending on the value, it can give you anything between INR 250 crores to INR 300 crores of top line. The super speciality carbon black depending on, again, which segment we are targeting, this will be also 3x of our investment, capital investment, 3x asset ratio.

Deepak Poddar

analyst
#72

3x asset ratio, that effectively means around INR 500 crores, right? I mean...

Kamlesh Agarwal

executive
#73

INR 500 crores, right.

Deepak Poddar

analyst
#74

Okay. And what about CNT?

Kamlesh Agarwal

executive
#75

CNT is just a small capacity, 200 metric tons. So it will not be substantial. So in the next phase, when we scale up, then the real revenue will come.

Deepak Poddar

analyst
#76

Small in the sense, what I mean, INR 1,500 crores?

Kamlesh Agarwal

executive
#77

Yes, in that kind of, not INR 100 crores, less than INR 100 crores.

Deepak Poddar

analyst
#78

Okay. INR 50 crores to INR 70 crores and about -- and the last thing is anode, yes.

Kamlesh Agarwal

executive
#79

So anode, we have not announced any capital investment in terms of bigger capacity. So this is a planned for approvals.

Deepak Poddar

analyst
#80

Okay. But this 200 metric tons, so what is the revenue potential of this 200 metric tons? So this gives us some understanding, I mean, yes.

Kamlesh Agarwal

executive
#81

So revenue potential for 200 metric tons maybe INR 120 crores, INR 30 crores.

Deepak Poddar

analyst
#82

INR 120 crores, INR 3 crores -- okay. I got it. I got it. And in terms of -- are we also in future, have any strategy or planning towards going towards the cell manufacturing or something on those lines, the battery cell manufacturing? So do we have that plan as well or anything on both?

Kamlesh Agarwal

executive
#83

Not at all. We have. We are a raw material component company, focused on this for the last many, many years. We want to continue in this direction. For cell manufacturing, we have invested in IBC. Idea is not to go for cell manufacturing. idea is to have a commercial play in terms of our product being displayed commercially by using by the cell manufacturing company, IBC. So today, Himadri product is no longer a laboratory product. It's a product which is commercially used in cells manufactured by IBC.

Deepak Poddar

analyst
#84

Understood. And this INR 1,100 crores bottom line by FY '28 remains intact that I think we have earlier mentioned, right?

Kamlesh Agarwal

executive
#85

Definitely.

Deepak Poddar

analyst
#86

And anything on FY '27, I mean, any outlook? I think you have not shared...

Kamlesh Agarwal

executive
#87

We don't give quarter and year guidelines, never.

Operator

operator
#88

The next question is from the line of Ranvir Singh from Nuvama Wealth.

Thakur Singh

analyst
#89

I think 2 of my questions have already been answered. Just to elaborate a little bit on cathode material plan. So 40,000 metric tons by FY '28 and 2 lakh metric ton is our ultimate target in the next 5 years. So I think by FY '30, '31, we are planning this 2 lakh metric ton would be rolled out?

Kamlesh Agarwal

executive
#90

Right, right. In 5 years from now, right.

Thakur Singh

analyst
#91

And normally, what kind of CapEx is required to this kind of capacity?

Kamlesh Agarwal

executive
#92

So we have already announced INR 200,000, INR 4,800 crores of CapEx.

Thakur Singh

analyst
#93

Okay. And when we talk 2 lakh metric ton, what would be the market share at that time, if you have any kind of analysis would be helpful in terms of...

Kamlesh Agarwal

executive
#94

Total market share of LFP...

Thakur Singh

analyst
#95

Sorry?

Kamlesh Agarwal

executive
#96

2% to 3% of the global LFP market.

Thakur Singh

analyst
#97

2% to 3%. Okay. Okay. Fine. And here in the base business in coal power business, what is the capacity utilization of the existing capacity and plus what we have expanded 70,000 metric tons. So what will be the capacity utilization currently in those segments?

Kamlesh Agarwal

executive
#98

80% capacity utilization. Looking forward during the year, we will be at 90% plus.

Thakur Singh

analyst
#99

Taking it together or separately, you are talking for new capacity?

Kamlesh Agarwal

executive
#100

Together.

Operator

operator
#101

The next question is from the line of Sagar Jethwani from Phillip Capital PMS.

Sagar Jethwani

analyst
#102

Yes. Congratulations on a good show. Is my voice audible?

Kamlesh Agarwal

executive
#103

Yes.

Sagar Jethwani

analyst
#104

Yes. So in terms of the LFP cathode again, how are we competing with the Chinese players? Can you give some confidence there and also insights on the price differentiation with the Chinese player? That is my first question. Yes.

Kamlesh Agarwal

executive
#105

So in terms of technology, we have developed our in-house technology towards for LFP through years of research and development. And all these products, whether it's anode or cathode is always moving ahead. So we started with Gen 1, Gen 2, Gen 3. So it keeps on moving. So we have to work hand-in-hand with the customers and keep on developing new qualities depending on their requirement. That is something which is a strength of Himadri. In terms of pricing, we are product as same as China. But base is that we are trying to develop and set up the business.

Sagar Jethwani

analyst
#106

Yes. But how does the economics work there? Because we are making considerable margins as well. And at a similar time, we are also competing with Chinese players, which have a humongous capacity. and we are priced at almost like at par. So how does the economics work? Just trying to scratch my head over there.

Kamlesh Agarwal

executive
#107

So see, economics works, basically, we are not dependent on China for anything in this. We are not dependent on raw material. We are not dependent on anything. So our raw material source is different. Our production base is India. So we have cost advantage compared to China in many particular aspects. And given the technology that we are using, have some cost advantage altogether. So that will put us in an advantageous position compared to Chinese players.

Sagar Jethwani

analyst
#108

Okay. And also, is there any client commitment regarding the supplies of LFP cathode once the capacity becomes live from Q3 FY '27 and also once we are completed 40,000 of capacity. So what gives you that visibility? Is there any client commitment? Can you share some thoughts?

Kamlesh Agarwal

executive
#109

Definitely, see, clients were very encouraged by our samples, and that is one of the reasons the best example for this is IBC. We supplied our LFP sample to IBC, and they were so encouraged by seeing the quality of the LFP we supplied that they came to us and we formed a strategic partnership because this will put IBC in a unique position where technology is developed outside China with supply chain positioned outside China. So this is one of the such example. Other than this, we are having very strong relationship and the sample A has been approved. Now sample B trial will start from -- once we have 2,000 metric ton capacity in place, then sample B. So that's the reason instead of setting up 40,000 in the beginning, we have set up 2,000 so that the CapEx is deferred and we don't have to wait for the orders for the plant to commission. So by the time we have 40,000 metric ton plant, we have all the approvals because the commercial grade plant is operational and then 40,000 plant is up and running in full steam.

Sagar Jethwani

analyst
#110

Yes. Just a small follow-up on that. So Okay. Okay. So now actually, I had a different question on C&T also. So what kind of potential revenue in your INR 30,000 crores of revenue guidance that you gave in next 5 to 6 years, are you baking in that? Or is it excluding that? And what is the margin profile? What rate market is growing, some insights on those lines?

Kamlesh Agarwal

executive
#111

See, 30,000 we gave for lithium-ion component, so which includes 100 gigawatt of capacity for anode cathode and part of it silicon carbon. CNT, the market is evolving. We start with 200 tonnes. We see the market, we evaluate the market, very high potential product with very high growth. And depending on how it goes, we will announce our next CapEx plan for that. These are high value-added margin products.

Operator

operator
#112

The next question is from the line of Parth Sodha from Trinetra Asset Managers.

Parth Sodha

analyst
#113

You have guided towards INR 1,100 crores PAT by 2028. So after Q1, are there any assumptions underlying that road map that have changed either positively or negatively?

Kamlesh Agarwal

executive
#114

See, there is nothing negative. My go, things are moving in the right direction and things are positive only. I don't want to comment or change my projections -- so I'll remain at INR 1,100 for next year and let the quarter speak of itself what happens. We are very positive and optimistic about the business.

Operator

operator
#115

The next question is from the line of Harsh Motika from SKP Securities Limited.

Harsh Motika

analyst
#116

Congratulations on a great set of numbers for the quarter. Sir, given the West Asia situation that we had in April and May predominantly, how did that affect our realizations per tonne and profitability in our core businesses?

Kamlesh Agarwal

executive
#117

So the best thing is to see the resilience in supply chain, which Himadri has built over the years, which is clearly depicted by the numbers we came up with, even going through a deep crisis globally, geopolitical situation, we have been able to post strong numbers. This itself shows there is no dependence on West Asia for our functioning and working. In addition to that, what is something special about Himadri, even though being a chemical company, but it's -- we are not dependent at all on China for any of our product that what happens with China, what happens with the pricing, their dumping, no dumping. So that is something we have built over the years.

Harsh Motika

analyst
#118

Sir, also staying on the same point, we do notice that there has been a decline in sales volume for the quarter, but revenue as a total has gone up. How much of that can be attributed to a change in our sales mix towards higher-value products? And how much is on the account of passing over the raw material costs?

Kamlesh Agarwal

executive
#119

So see, the raw material has gone up because of the finished product prices has gone up. That is definitely one of the part. But it's a journey in which we are transforming our product into higher value-added product. So that is at the same time, we are continuing. Every quarter, you see we are improving in terms of bottom line. with not similar improvement in terms of top line. The reason being we are more focused on our bottom line rather than top line. The intermediate products are used in-house and converted into finished products and value-added products. So you see the value addition coming. This quarter, you have seen top line growth. Again, next quarter coming, you'll see top line growth from both volume and value.

Harsh Motika

analyst
#120

Sir, from the other expenses for the quarter, so if you remove the ForEx loss that we have booked, the other expenses stand at similar to INR 148 crores, while the same number, excluding ForEx losses in Q4 was about INR 172 crores. Can you please shed some light on what has led to this decline in other expenses?

Kamlesh Agarwal

executive
#121

So freight outbound is part of other expenses, which has come down, which has helped us to reduce this cost. Plus we are working on a cost optimization on all the expenses, which is helping us to reduce the cost.

Harsh Motika

analyst
#122

And sir, just one last question on the new businesses that you've announced during the quarter. You've already given us a ballpark idea of what the revenues would look like. Can you also give us an idea of what the margins would be from this business, whether it be C&T or FSEG?

Kamlesh Agarwal

executive
#123

I don't want to disclose the margins at this point of time. So at the right point of time, the numbers will speak...

Operator

operator
#124

The next question is from the line of Rohit Sinha from Sunidhi Securities.

Rohit Sinha

analyst
#125

Congratulations for a good set of numbers. So most of my questions are already answered. Just one or a couple from my side. One is on the IBS side, we have increased our stake recently to around 19% something. So going forward, is there any target we have internal to take up our stake in this business?

Kamlesh Agarwal

executive
#126

No, no, no. It's a strategic investment. It's not a financial investment. So we will remain at where we are. And this is IBC has developed prismatic cell lithium ion cell technology out of China. And they have their AI-based R&D center in California, and they have their manufacturing facility in Seoul in South Korea for 50 megawatts, which is a full commercial plant operating. So now with this integration with IBC, the Himadri product can be seen commercially used in cell. So they have already come up with a new cell like double 2,000, trouble 3,000 where MRD LFP and anode will be used, trouble 3000 where MR silicon carbon and anode material will be used. hybrid material will be used. Plus they are setting up facility through their technology in India for 7 gigawatts. The work is in progress and expected to commence operation by Q4 FY '27. So where IBC is giving the technology to set up the plant in which Himadri raw material will be used.

Rohit Sinha

analyst
#127

Got it. Got it. Got it. But in future also, would be looking to raise our stake, if at all required?

Kamlesh Agarwal

executive
#128

No, no, no. We are not looking to raise.

Rohit Sinha

analyst
#129

Okay. And secondly, sir, just on the mining side, as you have highlighted that this quarter, there was no such revenue from mining. So how the licensing progress we have and from coming quarter, any kind of number we can get on the mining side?

Kamlesh Agarwal

executive
#130

No, we have applied for environmental clearance. It takes time. So we don't have the visibility.

Rohit Sinha

analyst
#131

Okay. That will take time.

Kamlesh Agarwal

executive
#132

It will take time, 3 months, it can take 6 months.

Operator

operator
#133

The next question is from the line of Isha Agarwal from VT Capital.

Isha Agarwal

analyst
#134

Sir, my first question is regarding the big swing that we had seen in ForEx change from a profit to a loss this quarter. So what's driving it? Is there any change in the hedging policy?

Kamlesh Agarwal

executive
#135

No, there is no change in the hedging policy because of the huge volatility in the currency, this happened, and this is done with. If you see last quarter also, there was a loss. This quarter, again, there's a loss. From next quarter, there will not be any impact on account of FX. negative impact. So this is the last quarter for this because of so much of volatility in the currency, this happened. But looking forward, it's not going to happen.

Isha Agarwal

analyst
#136

Okay. Sir, second question related to this. So last year, we had seen good foreign gains, which led to higher other income component. So sir, this quarter, we are again seeing a higher rise in the other income portion. So what is driving that? What component led to such growth if FX was a loss this quarter?

Kamlesh Agarwal

executive
#137

So this quarter, if you see 2, 3 factors. One, we have deployed a lot of fund in terms of interest in FDs. We have borrowed from bank and CPs and deployed in FDs, so which gives us a delta. So that helps to have interest earning on our investments. Thus, we have made investment in mutual funds -- so that is part of it. Other than this, we have made investment in IBC, Sika, and series of Birla Tyres. So mark-to-market of that is also helping us to -- that was the reason for other income.

Isha Agarwal

analyst
#138

So sir, this is the usual run rate that we should assume from now onwards when it comes to other income?

Kamlesh Agarwal

executive
#139

This will vary 30% to 40% quarter-on-quarter.

Isha Agarwal

analyst
#140

Okay. And sir, last question, the new CapEx that you have announced. So are we planning to take any incremental debt or in FY '27, the free cash flow would cover that?

Kamlesh Agarwal

executive
#141

Yes, definitely, the free cash flow will cover that. There is no question of any incremental debt.

Operator

operator
#142

The next question is from the line of Bhavin Chheda from Enam Holdings.

Bhavin Chheda

analyst
#143

Congratulations on excellent number and very exciting projects over the next 5 years. What would be the year-wise CapEx, if you can guide for next 2 or 3 years? So consolidated?

Kamlesh Agarwal

executive
#144

Yes. Total CapEx we have announced is around INR 2,000 crores, INR 1,125 crores for LFP INR 368 crores announced yesterday. So that brings to around INR 1,500 crores of CapEx, plus INR 500 crores of CapEx this year in Birla Tyres. So total INR 2,000 crores. Out of this, we expect around INR 1,000 crores of CapEx happening this year and INR 1,000 crores next year.

Bhavin Chheda

analyst
#145

INR 2,000 crores. And Kolar pitch, you are at 6 lakh tonnes. So there, no CapEx is happening?

Kamlesh Agarwal

executive
#146

There is no CapEx happening, right.

Bhavin Chheda

analyst
#147

Distillation no CapEx. So INR 1,000 crores this year and INR 1,000 crores next year.

Kamlesh Agarwal

executive
#148

Right, right.

Bhavin Chheda

analyst
#149

Right. And Birla Tyres, I think I heard on your CNBC interview, your quarterly sales was INR 127 crores...

Kamlesh Agarwal

executive
#150

Right, right.

Bhavin Chheda

analyst
#151

Okay. And that's EBITDA positive?

Kamlesh Agarwal

executive
#152

Not yet. So now Birla Tyres is reflected on Dalmia Refractories balance sheet. So once it becomes part of Himadri, then the numbers will come. So it is through a subsidiary that we are selling. Tyres, that revenue is recognized in Himadri.

Bhavin Chheda

analyst
#153

So the difference between consolidated sales and stand-alone sales is largely Birla Tyres?

Kamlesh Agarwal

executive
#154

It's largely Birla Tyres, yes.

Bhavin Chheda

analyst
#155

Okay. Okay. And in case of the core business, coal tar and carbon black, these margins are sustainable?

Kamlesh Agarwal

executive
#156

Definitely, the way we have built up the business over the years is on sustainable value margins. So if you look at coal tar, which we supply material to our customers at the lowest price globally... [Technical Difficulty]

Operator

operator
#157

Ladies and gentlemen, the line for the management has dropped. Please stay on the line while we connect them. The management line is connected.

Anurag Choudhary

executive
#158

Yes, very sorry. I don't know what is happening. So we have shifted from landline to mobile line.

Kamlesh Agarwal

executive
#159

Is the voice clear Puja?

Operator

operator
#160

Yes, sir. Loud and clear.

Kamlesh Agarwal

executive
#161

I think echo is there.

Operator

operator
#162

Sir, it's from Bhavin's line.

Bhavin Chheda

analyst
#163

Hello, can you hear me?

Kamlesh Agarwal

executive
#164

Yes, I can hear you, please. Did you hear my answer.

Bhavin Chheda

analyst
#165

Yes. I think you said INR 1,000 crores CapEx this year, next year, margins are sustainable. And after that, any follow-up, I think the line was dropped out.

Kamlesh Agarwal

executive
#166

Yes, more or less that only. I don't know why the line is getting disconnected.

Bhavin Chheda

analyst
#167

Okay. And sir, last question on the tire ramp-up, if any guidance there?

Kamlesh Agarwal

executive
#168

So we are ramping up quarter-on-quarter. If you see compared to the last quarter, this quarter is higher in terms of volumes, in terms of sales. We continue this trajectory. And in next 4 to 5 years, target is to reach INR 3,000 crores of top line in Birla Tyres.

Bhavin Chheda

analyst
#169

And what is the EBITDA breakeven level for the turnover?

Anurag Choudhary

executive
#170

We reach EBITDA breakeven in this financial year only. It will be cash positive.

Kamlesh Agarwal

executive
#171

Yes, yes, will be cash positive.

Operator

operator
#172

The next question is from the line of Tanvi Warekar from Anand Rathi Institutional Equities.

Tanvi Warekar

analyst
#173

Just a follow-up on the LFP cathode pricing, whereas you said that your pricing is competitive versus China. Just wanted to know that from our working, we that we won't be making any money like we are arriving at a gross -- negative gross spreads on this if we compare the China pricing versus the input cost calculation. So just wanted to know like where are we sourcing the lithium carbonate because that is like the major driver for the spread on LFP. Do we have any advantage over there?

Anurag Choudhary

executive
#174

See, I'll suggest that it is not possible for you to calculate my cost on axle sheet and come to a conclusion. it took a long time for us to come to a conclusion and see how to make profit. And on axles by seeing a few prices, you cannot determine what is the margin. But we are confident we'll work on it, and I cannot disclose my sources. That is confidential.

Operator

operator
#175

The next question is from the line of Bhavika from Niveshaay.

Bhavika Singhvi

analyst
#176

So basically, most of my questions have been answered. I need to know as we continue to emphasize that we are shifting our product mix and that will lead to a higher profitability. So can you like tell us like what's the product margin mix from the current CapEx which we are doing, if you can broadly explain or in terms of pricing difference, if you can explain that, if not possible with the margins?

Kamlesh Agarwal

executive
#177

See, pricing difference as we move up the ladder, we go for the niche product, all the CapEx we have announced yesterday has significant high margins and significantly differently priced altogether. So there will be no comparison between what we are doing, what pricing we are doing, what margins we are having today and what margins that these products bring.

Bhavika Singhvi

analyst
#178

So how do you expect our branded EBITDA margin to go over the next 2 to 3 years?

Kamlesh Agarwal

executive
#179

So you calculate on the basis of what we are performing?

Bhavika Singhvi

analyst
#180

Sorry, I didn't get it.

Kamlesh Agarwal

executive
#181

You calculate on the basis of our results, what we are performing.

Bhavika Singhvi

analyst
#182

Okay. And also -- okay, got it. Also, sir, like as we are talking about the NO side, the pilot plant which we have, as per my understanding, we are doing with Meso Coke technology, which is different than other players in the market. And when we look at the other players, they have been doing the pilot plant since like years. So how confident we are that we will be able to onboard customers for our NO like pilot plant? How -- like are we seeing the traction from the customer that they are getting the confidence on our product as compared to...

Kamlesh Agarwal

executive
#183

First of all, no one is doing this product before Himadri. Himadri is a pioneer in this. So there's no other plant in India who has pilot plant before Himadri. So Himadri has set up 200 plant now, but pilot plant is there for last many, many years. And we have done -- and we are doing it on different types of raw material. So our raw material is one of it, other raw materials. So we have all the varieties of finished product available with us, depending on the appetite requirement and specific uses of the user industry, we'll produce the anode material and supply to them. Depending on what price they give, depending on what quality they want, we will do it.

Bhavika Singhvi

analyst
#184

So are we currently seeing any traction from the customer that they are.

Kamlesh Agarwal

executive
#185

There's a huge traction from the customer traction from the customers because of the quality of what we are producing, there is great interest from customers in India and globally.

Bhavika Singhvi

analyst
#186

Got it. So what's the time line we can expect them getting converted on the full-fledged commercialization at a large scale, if you can guide on that?

Kamlesh Agarwal

executive
#187

See, I have not made any public disclosure on that. So on a call, I don't want to make any public disclosure. So once we come up, we come up with -- we'll come up with the announcement, formal announcement for the capacity.

Bhavika Singhvi

analyst
#188

Okay. And sir, just last one clarity on the super speciality carbon you have mentioned. Can you explain like what -- how this is different from the speciality carbon, like you have already explained a bit. But I want to know in terms of application, like how it differs in terms of application and what -- like how big the market TAM is for the particular super speciality carbon black you're talking about?

Kamlesh Agarwal

executive
#189

Yes. I told the market is not very big, very specialized 300,000 tonne market and very niche application, very high value-added applications. I don't want to go into details of application as such. But if you look at margins, the margins are significantly higher than speciality carbon black. So there is no comparison between speciality margin and super speciality margins. These are significantly higher.

Bhavika Singhvi

analyst
#190

Okay. And sir, in the previous answer, you once mentioned that you are also focusing on the natural anode like synthetic anode you are talking about -- natural anode you were talking about. As we are already in synthetic anode like materials, then why we are going for the natural, like I want to understand from where we are seeing the traction in the market in the industry, if you can...

Kamlesh Agarwal

executive
#191

So some customers need low-value anodes. Some need medium value, some need high value. So depending on customer appetite, we should have all the products available with us. Some need blend anodes, natural synthetic silicon. So as an anode producer, we will showcase a unique proposition to our customers, having all types of anode material.

Bhavika Singhvi

analyst
#192

So like what's our plan in the natural side, if you can -- like do we have currently...

Kamlesh Agarwal

executive
#193

Natural already we are producing natural anodes. Synthetic we are producing. Silicon carbon, our partner is producing. So all will be integrated in Himadri over a period of time.

Operator

operator
#194

Due to time constraints, we take that as the last question of the day. And now I hand the conference over to Mr. Anurag Choudhary for closing comments.

Anurag Choudhary

executive
#195

Thank you. Let me close by thanking each of you for joining us today and for your continued interest and thoughtful engagement we continue to receive a Himadri. I hope our discussion has given you a sense not just of where we stand today, but the direction in which we are building the business. As I mentioned at the outset, we are pursuing our ambition with discipline, funding from our own balance sheet and building it on firm foundations of safety, sustainability and trust. I remain confident that the decisions we are taking today will compound meaningful and lasting value over the years ahead. We would like to thank all our stakeholders and partners for their continued trust and to the entire Himadri family, thank you for your dedication and commitment that makes all this possible. Our Investor Relations team remains available for any further questions and look forward to staying engaged in quarters ahead. Thank you once again, and I wish you all a very good evening. Thank you.

Operator

operator
#196

On behalf of Himadri Speciality Chemical Limited, that concludes this conference. Thank you for joining us, and you may now disconnect your lines.

Read the full transcript via the API

You're viewing the first half of this call. Get the complete Himadri Speciality Chemical Limited transcript — plus 246,000+ transcripts from 12,000+ companies, speaker segments, AI summaries and full-text search — through the EarningsCalls.dev API.

Get the API View API docs →

This call discussed

For developers and AI pipelines

Programmatic access to Himadri Speciality Chemical Limited earnings transcripts and 246,000+ others is available through the EarningsCalls.dev REST API. Plans from $24.99/month — full transcripts, speaker segments, full-text search, and the recently-added /api/v1/transcripts/recent polling endpoint for ETL pipelines.