Karachi: The second quarter of 2024 has shown strong earnings for major fertilizer companies, with Fauji Fertilizer Company (FFC) and Fauji Fertilizer Bin Qasim Ltd (FFBL) particularly standing out due to higher retention prices compared to last year. However, dividend payouts are expected to vary among the companies.

According to JS Global, FFC is projected to report earnings per share (EPS) of Rs12.35, while Engro Fertilizers (EFERT) and FFBL are expected to post EPS of Rs3.85 and Rs3.70, respectively, for the quarter. Dividends for the period are anticipated to be Rs8.3 per share for FFC and Rs4.0 per share for EFERT. In contrast, FFBL is not expected to announce any interim dividends this quarter.

Performance metrics indicate that FFC and EFERT have significantly outperformed the KSE100 Index in the year to date, with respective gains of 52% and 49%. The report emphasizes the need for a level playing field and clarity on gas pricing for companies based on Mari Petroleum Company Limited gas to avoid pricing anomalies. It also highlights improvements in FFBL's core operations and the performance of its portfolio companies.