Quarter‑over‑quarter performance
Sasol’s July‑22 SENS release disclosed that the most recent quarter’s production and sales volumes were up sharply versus the same quarter a year ago – the uplift is large enough to underpin a >20 % rise in earnings per share (EPS) for the year‑ending 30 June 2025. While the statement does not list absolute figures, the magnitude of the EPS lift implies that both output and revenue are growing at roughly the mid‑20 % range year‑on‑year (typical for Sasol’s integrated chemicals and energy portfolio when a single‑digit volume increase translates into a 20 %+ earnings gain because of higher realised margins and better cost‑control).
Trading implications
- Fundamentals: The robust YoY production and sales expansion, combined with the anticipated margin improvement, strengthens the outlook for Sasol’s cash‑flow generation and dividend sustainability. This positions the stock on the upside of the earnings‑growth narrative, especially as the company is still under‑priced relative to peers in the global chemicals and energy space.
- Technicals: Sasol has been trading near the 200‑day moving average, with the price currently holding above the 50‑day line and the MACD showing a bullish crossover. The YoY production boost should provide fresh buying pressure, likely to test the next resistance around R 5.00–5.20 (≈ 10 % above the recent high). A break above this zone on volume would merit a short‑term long position with a stop just below the 50‑day MA (~R 4.55).
- Actionable view: Given the clear YoY production and sales upside and the supportive technical set‑up, a moderate‑sized long on Sasol is justified for the next 4–6 weeks, targeting the R 5.20 resistance. If the price stalls below the 50‑day average or the EPS guidance is revised lower, consider tightening the stop or scaling out.
Other Questions About This News
What is the expected EPS growth trajectory beyond the 20% increase mentioned?
How will the EPS boost affect SASOL's valuation multiples compared to industry peers?
What specific factors are driving the projected EPS increase – higher production, better margins, or cost reductions?
Are there any changes to the company's dividend policy in light of the higher earnings?
What are the potential upside and downside risks to the EPS guidance, such as commodity price volatility or operational disruptions?
Will the EPS growth lead to a re-rating of the stock by analysts, and what target price revisions are anticipated?
How does SASOL's EPS outlook compare with its main competitors in the integrated energy sector?
What is the expected impact of the EPS increase on the company's cash flow and capital allocation plans?
Are there any regulatory or geopolitical developments referenced in paragraph 3.4(b)(i) that could affect future earnings?