Vulcan Materials (VMC) vs. MLM and EXP: Can Its Aggregates Shift Keep Lifting Margins?

Vulcan Materials (VMC) is strategically shifting its business focus towards higher-margin aggregates by divesting lower-margin concrete operations and acquiring new aggregate businesses. This move has already led to improved gross margins, and analysts generally expect the stock to perform well if this strategy continues to boost profitability. However, hedge fund interest has declined, and some short interest exists, indicating a degree of market skepticism despite the positive internal developments and infrastructure spending tailwinds.