In afternoon trade, the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) is on course to record a strong gain. At the time of writing, the benchmark index is up 1.65% to 8,637.1 points.
Four ASX shares that have failed to follow the market higher today are listed below. Here's why they are falling:
Contact Energy Ltd (ASX: CEN)
The Contact Energy share price is down 6% to $7.70. This follows news that major shareholder Infratil Ltd (ASX: IFT) has completed the sale of a 5% stake in the energy company. Infratil's CEO, Jason Boyes, advised that the transaction would provide additional flexibility to fund future growth opportunities. He said: "We received our initial stake in Contact as part of the sale of Manawa Energy in July 2025 and we remain confident in Contact and the sector's outlook. While we have no immediate funding requirements and our divestment programme is on track, we consider it prudent to reposition this capital now. This means we're well prepared to support future growth opportunities across our portfolio."
IPD Group Ltd (ASX: IPG)
The IPD Group share price is down 11% to $5.50. Investors have been selling this electrical solutions provider's shares following the release of guidance for FY 2026. IPD advised that it expects FY 2026 underlying EBITDA of between $54.5 million and $55.3 million. This represents growth of around 18% at the midpoint compared with FY 2025 statutory EBITDA. However, this seems to have fallen short of the market's expectations for the year.
Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST)
The Northern Star share price is down 2% to $19.00. This has been driven by news that the gold mining giant's CEO is stepping down. The company's managing director, Stuart Tonkin, has advised the board of his intention to step down during the first quarter of FY 2027. Tonkin has been with Northern Star for 13 years. He said: "After 13 years leading Northern Star through significant growth, I'm proud to leave the Company in an exceptional position. The team, the assets and the outstanding growth outlook is unique and after many years of rewarding challenges, I have decided to step down."
Tower Ltd (ASX: TWR)
The Tower share price is down 7% to $1.57. This morning, the New Zealand-based insurance company announced its half-year results and reported a 40% decline in underlying net profit after tax to NZ$36.8 million. Management advised that this half "compares against an exceptionally strong prior-year half, which benefited from unusually benign weather conditions and favourable claims experience."
