Holcim

The Swiss stock market closed 0.6% lower at 14,462 points in a weak European environment. Weighing on the market were the rise in oil prices as well as concerns about France's bonds and a possible credit-rating downgrade by Moody's. Holcim reported stronger Q3 results, raised its outlook and gained around 5%, while Sika, Richemont and Swatch fell after disappointing data or weak sector signals. Other reports: Novartis and Roche with positive news, Galderma up after China approval, and Gurit significantly weaker. » More on finanzen.net

Holcim shares rose 5.6% after the publication of quarterly results, supported by what Goldman Sachs described as strong operational performance despite difficult market conditions. The company raised its full-year forecast for operating profit (Ebit), reinforcing the positive picture. Industry peers such as Sika and VINCI, by contrast, provided weaker momentum. » More on finanzen.net

The SMI rose modestly by 0.1% to 14,543 points, driven by cyclical stocks. Holcim was the top gainer of the day with +3.7%, while defensive names such as Roche and Novartis fell. In the second tier, SoftwareOne (+≈10%) moved into focus after strong half-year figures, Gurit (+≈21%) after raised full-year targets, and Stadler Rail (+22.4%) after beating expectations. » More on finanzen.net

Holcim has signed an agreement to buy German manufacturer Fermacell from James Hardie Industries for €840 million. Fermacell, headquartered in Düsseldorf, expects around €430 million in sales in 2026, employs more than 1,000 people and operates six production sites across 13 European markets. Holcim forecasts annual EBITDA synergies of about €22 million from the third year and expects the acquisition to be accretive to earnings per share in the first year. Closing is expected in the first half of 2027 and is subject to customary conditions and regulatory approvals. » More on finanzen.net

Holcim acquires parts of James Hardie's European operations for around 840 million euros (981 million USD). James Hardie is exiting the European fibre cement business to focus on growth markets in the US and Australia. The acquisition expands Holcim's offering of construction, sustainable flooring and wall solutions and strengthens its position in the European building materials sector. James Hardie ADRs rose about 1% in after-hours trading. » More on de.investing.com