Cemex SAB de CV (CX), the Mexican building materials company, saw its stock soar by 8.19% in pre-market trading on Thursday. This significant rally was driven by the company's impressive fourth-quarter earnings results and optimistic outlook for future growth.

According to the earnings report, Cemex swung to a net profit of $48 million or $0.16 per American depositary share in the fourth quarter, a remarkable turnaround from the $441 million loss reported in the same period last year. This stellar performance was supported by the company's strategic asset sales, which contributed to Cemex's highest full-year profit in nearly two decades, totaling $939 million.

Looking ahead, Cemex expressed confidence in its growth prospects, particularly in the U.S. market, where it plans to pursue small to medium-sized acquisitions. Additionally, the company aims to further reduce its debt and enhance shareholder returns, bolstered by its improved free cash flow generation and the recovery of its investment-grade ratings.