Domain Directors Resign and Shares Delisted Following CoStar Takeover
Domain Holdings Australia has officially been acquired by US-based CoStar Group, with shareholders receiving cash payouts and a special dividend. The acquisition triggers a board overhaul and imminent ASX delisting.
- Acquisition completed via scheme of arrangement
- Shareholders paid $4.342 per share plus 8.8 cents special dividend
- All previous Domain directors resigned; three new directors appointed
- Domain shares suspended and set for ASX delisting
- Transaction marks significant consolidation in online real estate platforms
Acquisition Finalised
Domain Holdings Australia Limited has officially become part of the CoStar Group empire following the implementation of a scheme of arrangement on 27 August 2025. This marks the culmination of a strategic acquisition process that began months earlier, positioning CoStar as a dominant player in the Australian online real estate services market.
Shareholder Returns and Dividend
Domain shareholders, excluding certain excluded parties, received a cash payment of $4.342 per share based on the record date of 20 August 2025. This payment was in addition to a special dividend of 8.8 cents per share paid on 19 August. These returns reflect CoStar’s commitment to delivering immediate value to Domain’s investors as part of the transaction.
Leadership Transition
With the acquisition’s completion, Domain’s entire existing board resigned, making way for new leadership aligned with CoStar’s strategic vision. Jason Pellegrino, Peter Williams, and Cynthia Cann were appointed as directors effective immediately. This leadership change signals a new chapter for Domain under CoStar’s ownership, likely focusing on integration and growth initiatives.
ASX Delisting and Market Impact
Trading in Domain shares was suspended on 7 August 2025, ahead of the scheme’s implementation. The company plans to apply for removal from the ASX official list effective close of trading on 28 August 2025. This delisting reflects the transition from a publicly traded Australian company to a wholly owned subsidiary of a US-listed entity, which may affect liquidity and investor access going forward.
Broader Industry Implications
The acquisition underscores ongoing consolidation trends within the online real estate platform sector, as global players seek to expand their footprint in key regional markets. CoStar’s entry into Australia through Domain could intensify competition and innovation, potentially reshaping how property listings and real estate data services are delivered locally.
Bottom Line?
As Domain transitions under CoStar’s wing, investors will watch closely how this acquisition reshapes Australia’s real estate digital landscape.
Questions in the middle?
- How will CoStar integrate Domain’s operations and technology?
- What are the strategic priorities for the new board members?
- How will the delisting affect Domain’s existing shareholders and market perception?