Star Cement’s stock lit up on Friday morning, climbing nearly 8% following news that UltraTech Cement’s board had approved acquiring a minority stake in the company. The stock opened at ₹237.80 on the BSE, up from its previous close of ₹229.75, and reached an intraday high of ₹247.75, inching closer to its 52-week high of ₹248.35. On December 24, UltraTech completed its purchase of 10.13 crore equity shares (32.72% of India Cements’ equity) after receiving approval from the Competition Commission of India. Combined with its pre-existing stake of 22.77%, UltraTech now holds a majority 55.49% in India Cements, effectively making it a subsidiary. The India Cements acquisition strengthens UltraTech’s footprint in South India, aligning with its long-term growth strategy. While its stake in Star Cement is non-controlling, the move is seen as a step toward leveraging Star Cement’s stronghold in Eastern India.