Votorantim on course to diversify and make new investments

Votorantim SA's CEO, João Miranda, says the company is preparing to further diversify its portfolio after reaching its leverage ratio goal in 2018.

The group is seeking investments in areas such as infrastructure and commercial properties in Brazil, as well as cement or building materials makers in developed countries. "The group is not in a rush to invest, but it seeks assets to ensure a steady flow of dividends," said Mr Miranda.

Votorantim's net debt ended 2018 at BRL13.2bn (US$3.42bn), up seven per cent from the previous year. Thsi is equivalent to 1.9 times EBITDA, down from 2.62 times EBITDA in 2017.