On March 24, 2025, CRH was removed from the FTSE All-World Index, highlighting a significant adjustment in its market presence. This index change is an important context for the company's flat price move over the last quarter. Despite strong Q4 2024 earnings and a 6% increased dividend declaration, these positive factors were tempered by market nervousness and external trends, including ongoing tariff discussions affecting global stocks and CRH's subsequent adjustments to hedge these shifts. As competing shares rallied, CRH's index drop likely overshadowed its promising financial results in this uninspiring market momentum.

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CRH's shareholders have enjoyed a very large total return of 319.41% over the past five years, driven by several key developments. The company's earnings have grown significantly, averaging an annual increase of over 21.3%, with a focus on U.S. expansions bolstering their growth. Investments like those in Texas and Florida have leveraged population and infrastructure demands, underpinning revenue and margin enhancements. Further, the company's robust capital allocation facilitated strategic acquisitions, contributing to operational synergies and EBITDA growth.

Additionally, CRH has actively managed its capital structure, completing a buyback of over 2.67 million shares recently. The consistent increases in dividend declarations, such as the most recent rise to US$0.37 per share, have also rewarded shareholders. While CRH matched the U.S. market returns over the past year, it notably surpassed its industry peers, highlighting its competitive edge within the Basic Materials sector.

Take a closer look at CRH's potential here in our financial health report.

This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.

Companies discussed in this article include NYSE:CRH.

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