Bentley Capital Limited reported a reduced net loss of $878,418 for FY25, driven by unrealised investment losses primarily linked to its significant stake in Strike Resources. The company continues to navigate market volatility and operational hurdles with strategic cost controls and asset sales.
- Net loss narrowed 57% to $878,418 in FY25
- Unrealised $567,000 loss on 19.99% stake in Strike Resources
- No dividends declared; net tangible asset backing per share fell 64%
- Key management personnel voluntarily suspended salaries from November 2024
- Post-year-end sale of 3 million Strike shares for $104,538
Financial Performance Overview
Bentley Capital Limited (ASX, BEL) has reported a net loss of $878,418 for the financial year ended 30 June 2025, marking a significant improvement of 57% compared to the prior year’s loss of $2,038,570. The company’s results were primarily influenced by unrealised losses on its investment portfolio, notably a $567,000 write-down on its 19.99% holding in Strike Resources Limited (ASX, SRK).
Despite the reduced loss, Bentley’s net tangible asset (NTA) backing per share declined sharply by 64% to 0.65 cents, reflecting the ongoing challenges in the valuation of its key investments. The company did not declare any dividends for the year, maintaining a conservative capital management approach amid market uncertainties.
Investment Portfolio and Market Dynamics
Bentley’s financial health remains closely tied to the performance of Strike Resources and, to a lesser extent, Lithium Energy Limited (ASX, LEL). The SRK share price fluctuated between 2.5 and 4.5 cents over the year, settling at 3 cents as of 30 June 2025 and maintaining that level into late August. Bentley holds 56.7 million SRK shares, representing a substantial 19.99% stake.
Lithium Energy’s shares have been suspended from trading since October 2024 due to insufficient operational activity following the sale of its Solaroz Lithium Brine Project. Bentley holds a minor 0.13 million share position in LEL, which remains valued at its last bid price of $0.35. Lithium Energy is actively pursuing new projects to meet ASX’s reinstatement criteria, including acquisitions in Queensland and Utah.
Strategic Actions and Governance
In a bid to conserve cash, Bentley’s key management personnel voluntarily suspended their salaries from November 2024. The company also sold 3 million SRK shares post-year-end, generating net proceeds of approximately $104,538, signaling a cautious approach to liquidity management.
Bentley’s board, led by Executive Chairman Farooq Khan and Executive Director William Johnson, who also hold executive roles at Strike Resources and Lithium Energy, continues to oversee risk management, compliance, and capital preservation. The company maintains robust governance frameworks, including policies on ethical conduct and continuous disclosure.
Outlook and Market Position
Looking ahead, Bentley intends to sustain its investment activities while navigating the inherent volatility of its resource-focused portfolio. The company’s ability to manage market risks, maintain operational discipline, and potentially raise capital will be critical to its future performance. The ongoing suspension of Lithium Energy’s shares and the fluctuating market conditions for Strike Resources add layers of uncertainty that investors will watch closely.
Bottom Line?
Bentley’s FY25 results reflect cautious progress amid investment headwinds, with future gains hinging on market recovery and strategic asset management.
Questions in the middle?
- Will Lithium Energy successfully lift its ASX suspension and resume trading?
- How will Strike Resources’ project developments impact Bentley’s investment valuation?
- What capital management initiatives might Bentley pursue to strengthen its balance sheet?