2 Concrete & Aggregates Stocks to Ride Industrial and Public Spend

Core Insights - The Zacks Building Products - Concrete & Aggregates industry is experiencing cautious optimism due to strong infrastructure demand, supported by funding from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) and state-level initiatives [1][4] - Industrial demand is strengthening, particularly in data center expansion, semiconductor manufacturing, and new energy generation projects, despite challenges such as weather disruptions and labor costs [2] - The industry is focusing on acquisitions and operating efficiency to enhance earnings and cash flows while managing costs effectively [5] Industry Overview - The industry comprises manufacturers, distributors, and sellers of construction materials, including aggregates, concrete, and related items for various markets [3] - Key trends include a focus on reviving infrastructure through significant legislative investments aimed at enhancing American competitiveness and revitalizing infrastructure [4] Challenges - Industry players face challenges from rising input prices, labor shortages, and weather-related disruptions that can affect production and profitability [6] Market Position - The Zacks Building Products - Concrete & Aggregates industry ranks 98, placing it in the top 40% of over 250 Zacks industries, indicating solid near-term prospects [7][8] - The industry's earnings estimates for 2025 have increased from $2.09 to $2.18 per share, reflecting growing analyst confidence [9] Performance Metrics - Over the past year, the industry has underperformed the S&P 500, with a collective loss of 15.4% compared to the S&P 500's gain of 16.1% [11] - The industry is currently trading at a forward P/E ratio of 24.03X, higher than the S&P 500's 22.86X and the sector's 19.91X [14] Company Highlights - Vulcan Materials Company: Benefits from federal and state funding under the IIJA, with a focus on public infrastructure and industrial nonresidential demand. The company has seen an 18.7% stock gain over the past year and a projected 12% EPS growth for 2025 [18][19] - Martin Marietta: Driven by aggregates strength and favorable pricing dynamics, the company has gained 12.8% over the past year, although its 2025 EPS estimate shows a 42% decline [21][22]