** James Hardie Industries JHX.AX, the fiber cement producer, on Wednesday reported a better-than-expected annual profit
** ASX-listed shares of co closed up by 6.2% at A$53.35 on Wednesday
DESPITE HOUSING MARKET SHAKEUPS, FIRM CEMENTS PROFITS
** Morningstar maintains A$51 fair value estimate, attributes its wide economic moat to strong brand reputation and cost advantages, despite short-term risks from cyclical housing markets
** Citi "neutral" on JHX, recognizing better-than-expected 2Q results and potential cost cuts, but flags monetary policy uncertainties
** Co sees EBITDA growth from cost-cut initiatives boosting net profit, yet Jefferies notes potential headwinds from market share growth & margin variations; maintaining "hold" rating
** As of last close, stock down 5.6% YTD
(Reporting by Kumar Tanishk in Bengaluru)
((Tanishk.Kumar@thomsonreuters.com;))
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