Investing Reflections On India

Su-raj diamonds is in the business of exporting cut and polished diamonds/jewellery to the Middle East, Europe, US etc. The company has reported consistent growth in revenues and operating profits over the last five years.   It reported operating profits of about 140cr on revenues of 4,300cr in the last financial year.   It operated with a modest net debt load of about 150cr. The business, however, generates weak cash flows from operations as a result of relatively high investment in working capital. The business is subject to price rises in gold and rough diamonds.   It is generally a low-margin business and hence, risks tend to have a magnified adverse impact on profits.   Furthermore, it is a luxury product implying that it constitutes a discretionary purchase for the customer, which would likely be cut back first in the event of economic downturns resulting in profit deterioration.   It is also subject to adverse movements in foreign exchange rates as a result of its export-ori