Latest Australasian Markets News

Spark New Zealand has teamed up with Challenger Limited to offload $240 million in interest free payment receivables, reducing net debt and fueling mobile growth.

Smartpay Holdings Limited’s shares have been suspended from the ASX following New Zealand’s High Court approval of its acquisition by Shift4 Holdings Limited, marking a significant milestone in the payment processing sector.

Smartpay Holdings has secured final court approval for its acquisition by Shift4 Holdings, setting the stage for share suspension and delisting in early November. Shareholders will receive NZ$1.20 per share in cash upon completion, pending final conditions.

Smartpay Holdings has entered a definitive agreement to be acquired by US-based Shift4 Payments for NZ$1.20 per share, representing a significant premium and a near NZ$300 million valuation. The deal, recommended unanimously by Smartpay’s board, awaits shareholder and regulatory approvals.

AFT Pharmaceuticals has reported record revenue of NZD 208 million for FY25, driven by strong Australasian sales and a recovery in Asia and international markets. The company is targeting NZD 300 million in revenue by FY27, supported by an expanded R&D pipeline and ongoing geographic diversification.

ARB Corporation Limited reported a 5.9% increase in sales revenue to $361.7 million for the half year ended December 2024, while profit margins slightly contracted. Strategic acquisitions in the US and Australasia underpin the company’s cautious optimism for future growth.

Contact Energy Limited has announced a fully unfranked dividend of NZD 0.1847 per share, combining ordinary and supplementary components, payable in March 2025.